This is Why I Quit Van Life (it's been a total disaster!)
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 มิ.ย. 2024
- Sorry for the long absence but I have quit van life and this is the story behind why I stopped posting TH-cam videos and why I prematurely quit even though my plan was to travel for an entire year. Thanks for being a fan and thank you for sticking around! Rambo and I love you all!
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I think van life, for most people, is best when you're in your 20s and 30s. In your 60s, 70s, and 80s moving around simply gets harder and our bodies aren't as forgiving.
God bless!
capgun56, o , yeah, the golden years. I am linvited to leave the roof over the head scene into 1969 non-operating RV. That hollow sinking feeling of doom is hard to not buy into. Keep talking, do your best to not withdraw from earth. Speak with strangers in passing, in stores, in fastfood, anyplace you can participate in this life for a better quality of inner life. Imago Dei.
@@arabrabann Well, I had kind of the same lifestyle for 6 years, I drove a commercial trucks. It gets old not being able to shower everyday, waiting in line to use the bathroom, to use the laundry machines, to get a subway sandwich, etc. The thing that makes it worse is you're pretty much limited to truck stops, you can't get intro regular businesses. On the plus side you get paid per mile.
@@jeffk464 ha, yeah.28 cents a mile to the truck split to drivers, 👍
Spot on. I could, and would do it at 55, but to be honest...who the F wants to? I'm more about cooking for my friends, lying in on weekends until I can't, and generally doing nothing that stresses me except drugs and playing guitar. My life is difficult enough without trying to downsize and take it mobile without absolute necessity.
All the reasons you gave for quitting are the reasons many of us shouldn’t start! Thanks! 👍👍👍
I empathise, but many of the reasons are avoidable.
Onboard shower.
24hr gym membership for washing.
Business / work.
Anyway - All the best to the blogger and viewers.
You mean a lot of those cute guys at 24 hour fitness live in vans?
Should have a portable toliet and shower. Not that much
You don't have to drive around looking for a public bathroom if you put a composite or portable toilet in your van.
Just because hes having a hard time or a bad experience doesn't mean it would be like that for others....😅😮
The key to happy van life is “living down by the river”!
R.I.P. Chris Farley
With the bare necessities... Or go crazy otherwise. Going bare... One can be very content. Need money to lay in quieter places etc
Add takes care of the shower and bathroom issues now doesn't it😂 oh wait and there could be fish so yeah pretty much the river yeah that's a great idea 😂to 😂thanks Chris Farley🎉
Down down down by the river 🎶
It's great to get some honest feedback from someone who has done vanlife!
Great that you made the right choice for you.
And yes to an apartment tour ❤
Yes, an apartment tour is great. Thank you for your sharing.
A lot of people do the van life for a TH-cam channel. Most fail. Like 90%.
@@dalepxp8963 how do you know 90%? Are you a van lifer? Do you even own a van?
Look at Ms Devine. She’s doing great got married and her and her husband bought a house. They still have the vans. She met a man living in a van!
Interesting, I'm not a follower but the title spiked my interest. I see a lot of parallels with my situation. I gave up nomad life 5 months ago. After 10 yrs of living mobile at 71 yrs of age I could see my health slipping. I've always promoted having an exit plan and it was time to implement mine. I bought a 1 bedroom mobile home in a community that has great access to everything. Medical, retail, and groceries are all close by. I chose carefully with expectations of coming here to die.... maybe 10 years from now. I sold my travel trailer Which had been home for the last 5 yrs and will likely sell my van in exchange for a fuel efficient car. I agree the adjustment to static life is more appreciative of normal conveniences and it's easy to cacoon away from society. I've had no regrets about either life on the road or my life now. It's all about being secure and comfortable.
Many, many, many years of happiness in your new digs!!!
Its important to make sure you are still happy living this way…
That put a lump in my throat.. I feel like my life's musical chairs and someday the music is going to end and I don't know where I'm going to be sitting
@@nickbaugh2034 life is a series of stages. If you think ahead and recognize what is today won't be forever, you'll be fine. The key is to have a plan and act on it well before it becomes an emergency. The only constant in life is change, embrace change and it becomes something to look forward to. There's more to consider then just health. Everything from economic conditions to changing public opinions play a part. Nomad life now is nothing like it was 10 years ago.
@@nickbaugh2034 It's going to happen to us all..2 years ago I fell out of my Travel Trailer and broke my leg.. it was my wake up call.. Iam now in a Park model in a 55 plus community.Being a Nomad was alot of work..Iam happier now..
Thank you for letting your viewers know. There are a few channels that ghost their viewers when they quit. You had the courage to say goodbye.
Doesn't take courage!!! FFS
@Von Trap But it does take good character to be a good TH-cam citizen to your fans.
@@vontrap6942 Based on what? Courage is just like other mental things, you can't compare one persons courage to someone else's, just like you can't compare one persons pain to someone else's. Telling one person that you quit making the thing they like can require courage, telling hundreds or thousands of people wouldn't be any easier. For you it might not be a problem, but it's weird to assume you know how someone else feels.
Which is so ridiculous and petty.
"ghost their viewers". It's an epidemic in society honestly. When I grew up communication was hard, and required effort, and people were better at it. Now we can instantly reach out to anyone at anytime, and very few do it. With phones attached to everyone's hip, if you say you didn't see someone's message but yet you checked your phone for 25 others things and got those done, you'd be better off being honest with someone by saying, "nah, just didn't want to talk to you."
This is the definition of maturity. Hats off to you Sir. Being honest with yourself and see things from perspective is a damn rare thing these days. Warm hugs to you and Rambo!
Thank you for this. My husband and I are mid50s and we’re considering this. I think we will keep the house and just tinker with the van life on vacations. 😊
Keep the house, trust me.
If you have a camper why don't you take it out a couple of times for a vacation and see how it feels
To many illegals in this country ruining peoples van life. Danger everywhere.
Be safe. God Bless.
I appreciate your honesty. Van Life isn't for everyone. Myself I love driving, sleeping and waking up in different locations. I love the sounds of the night and morning. Especially rain and thunderstorms. It's an undescribable feeling of freedom. I wish you the best in your future endeavors.
Why don't you become a truck driver and make money at it?
@@pollypurree1834 I'm a retired chef. I've worked enough in my life. Now I'm going to enjoy the rest of my days traveling and seeing God's country and perhaps write a cookbook.
As a teenager back in the late 1950s my parents couldn’t afford a house… For 3 years we lived, 2 brothers and my parents, in a static residential caravan on a holiday site… without obviously being able to move around different locations the experiences you talk about were all fulfilled
What was it that was difficult for you? I'm considering it considering the cost of rent. Joining a gym for the showers. Probably get in shape.
Just asking because the questions are concerning.
Thank you. 🖖🍻
Yeah, you see you've got it right. I see some people who tried van life and right away you can tell they need something more conventional. I've been wanting to be a wandering nomad my whole life, and at the age of 65 I'm actually considering going out on the road.
I had the same experience.
Van life became more hassle than reward.
So I bought a small piece of land, and now live here.
It's great not having to move around all the time.
Yet I still have the freedom I need.
A tiny house, Solar power, and a wood stove keep me going.
A great signal for internet is a bonus!
Town is 30 miles away.
I think I've found the best of both worlds out here.
I'm blessed.
So where roughly is home?
@@jay6817
6200ft up in Eastern Arizona...
@@station8572
There's not many people out here ...
They are all doing their own off grid life.
Honestly.....sounds like bliss, as you are always looking and being occupied by trying to make your situation better. I honestly would love this situation....simple, enough funds to just be able to make improvements, and decent food. It's the struggle that makes us human. Look at a city....filled with self-centred, useless, people who have forgotten what it is to be human and struggle for survival, and see nothing but the dollar signs in front of them. It's not their fault, because as human beings we were never told the appropriate time to stop looking.
I find it hilarious how those that call themselves 'progressive' can't stop 'progressing' and creating all the pollution and degradation on the planet.
Awesome
I was living in my car from 2020 until 2022, quit my job due to mental health reasons....when I was able to get back into an apartment (thank you, VA!) it took me almost 6 months to decompress from "car life" and accept my new place. That tiny SUV I had, had become a cozy "safe" place for me....wasn't cold in winter, wasn't too hot in summer. Either way, it's a big change going from an apartment to a car, and back again.
You are not the first TH-camr who has given up van-life, that I know. I can imagine I could have gone through the same considering there are also some discomforts that I think are non-negotiable (like always finding and using public toilets). I am sure you really enjoyed your time living in the van, but the 'done that and no longer wanting to do it anymore' point in your life is really something you cannot ignore.
Get a box van or RV, they are solution
apartment has is own challenges with high rent
It can work for a few years to save and figure life out but not forever.
@@AndreMazi-du3ckBut where to park/live.
2 years is average
@@boundariessetinstone5893
Do research, watch other videos. Also stealth parking at neighborhood, Walmart, Some hotels
This is the opinion of a 76 year old traveler who has been to every state and a few foreign countries, with Panama and Australia being the best. My first thought is that you went way too small on the front end. I could never do a van other than for a few days to get away from "home' whatever form that may take. No bathroom, no way! I started with a motor home at age 35, but it was too big as I got older. So I went to a Ram 3500 and a 32' fifth wheel which also got too big to pull in cities by age 60, so two campers later, I have a 22' Micro Minnie now with a slide out, and it is perfect. Great bathroom and shower, large refrigerator with freezer, a queen bed, and sofa that folds into a bed if needed. The sound and video system is great. With solar, I can live off grid when I want, I spent a year in one campground on a small river for 1800, plus electric only, water and sewer furnished. So many make a great living with TH-cam and Patreon, but that too is a job, and I don't do that. (They make a Micro Minnie that is 19' that you could probably pull with the van.)
Not everybody has that kind of money, that kind of time, or the vast resources. Some people don't get all the numerous choices listed in that comment. Some folk rarely get any choices. But sure do love to hear others brag & throw it in their face. After they tried too, give him a break!
we are 80+ / our RV is a class A @ 22 feet. no slid-out, 1000w of solar, instant hot-water, Dish-TV, heated floor, apartment size refer/120v w/ice-maker, new mini-split AC, big sound system, soon Star-Link dish. and a loving wife.
It sounds wonderful. We had a RV for 5 years. We didn't move every often and not very far. It was a hassle to move . Neither of us would want to do very often.
We had enough space for the 2 of us.
Simple. Yours sounds wonderful and I can only dream of it now.
Thanks for sharing.
@@shendaraalshedir1933 While you may be right, I thought it was harsh to say that.
This is one of the best van life videos to learn from someone who has done full circle of enjoying it and leaving it.
and great dog
180🤦🏼
Many, many vanlifers have a similar experience when their rig doesn’t have a bathroom. There’s a definite pattern there. Having to look constantly for a restroom definitely makes the experience more difficult. So is emptying tanks, but much less so. Still - glad to see you’re in a better place now, keep achieving!! :)
I need a full-size bathroom. I can't deal with public restrooms. People can be so disgusting. Covid revealed how people do not care about others.
@@SuperAngelic5Ok so what if you are disabled and can’t afford rent.
@@boundariessetinstone5893Ever hear the saying " There but for the Grace of God go I?" I can only wish...
so get some cheap water bottles for sports, $5 from Wallys. and use them as pee jars. I needed the litter pan just 5x in 3 years. I dont park for the night where I can't walk to a bathroom.
@@user-ci2mn1oy3w - Don’t break your leg.
Thanks for being so honest,it tells a lot about you and Rambo
After a few yeas of traveling in my converted 2014 Sienna, I came to the same conclusion. I still have the campervan because I don't have a second car, and using the van to visit family and friend in other locations means they don't have to put me up in their homes and I have everything I need during the visits and can make relaxing stops along the way. I'm retired and my children and their families live in other states so the van is very useful for visiting them. I also use it for vacations in mountains during the very hot summers in Las Vegas.
Yes I'd like to see an apartment tour.
"Well clark dont you be falling in love with it cause we're taking it with us when we leave here next month."
I agree. I traveled around in my van for a couple of years. I went all over North America. It was wonderful. But I have now bought a home in a small town in New Mexico that I traveled through frequently and got to know. Everything is so much easier, convenient and comfortable. Traveling in a van is hard. It’s an adventure for sure and I am so glad I did it. The memories of all the places I went to and what I experienced are precious to me but I’m glad I have a place where I feel I am at home now.
This is exactly how I feel. Every now and again I think about it and say to myself ‘wow 8 months without a roof over my head.. what an adventure that was’ it’s so true!
What town are you in now
@@debbiedebbie9473 I want to know also - going to San Antonio tomorrow - Texas is soooo expensive
Las Cruces, N.M. ? I been there a few times - it's a great small town with a couple nice Manufactured homes communities.
Is it safe to say that "van life" should be viewed as a temporary adventure? That, after a few years it starts getting tiresome? To me, it actually makes sense.
I'm sure most of us will be excited to hear more about your transition to "normal" life. And thank you for the van life experience.
Good for you! Happy to hear you've had the success you've had. You've earned it.
It’s the experience that counts!! Nothing wrong with moving on to the next chapter. Good luck I’m sure you will be successful in whatever you do.
well said
I haven't done van life but I was a nomadic traveler for 3 years. It was draining after a while having to move around every few months due to visa reasons. I got tired of living out of my luggage and it was lonely. I eventually moved to Mexico and have lived in the same city now 3 years. I love having a home, I can store my stuff, I have a dog now too. It's great being in one place and I can still take short trips but always have a steady home base.
Almost the same as me but for way longer. Looking at settling down.
About the only thing that stops me moving to Thailand is my Cattle Dog.
@@The_Resistance_1961thanks for info. I’m finally settled in my home 12 years now. This is new for me lol ❤
@@Whatever11117 I'm buying a much larger van. If I have to stay in a 16 footer I'm going to go mad or kill myself. My bloody dog doesn't like this one.
What breed of dog do you have?
Thanks for sharing, brother. I am glad you are back in track!
It's really refreshing to hear your honesty about the downsides that could be a part of this lifestyle. Your video is probably very helpful to anyone thinking about committing to Van Life, because it will give them some real feedback to consider beforehand, so they can make the right choices for themselves.
Best of luck in your next steps...
Really appreciate your honesty - you tried and found it is not for you. No shame in that at all. Apartment tour would be interesting. Best wishes!
You are SO FUNNY. I was a homeowner for 23 years. I am widowed 28 years. Presently I live in my 2019 Transit. I pull a small cargo trailer. I understand the challenge in transitioning from home/house to Van. I am a Woman. Being a solo traveler is challenging under any circumstances. I miss making my own homemade everything. Having an herb garden, a bathtub, a sewing studio, a garage, a deck with swing. I am home sick but I have traveled across country 3 times. From Virginia to Arizona. It was Beautiful each time. I did it by myself. I would love to travel with a companion, someone who is competent. Wish you Well.
Currently mid 20s with my GF thinking about converting to the van life and travel the country, but funds are what stops us younger generations
Awww! Take me with you lol
i wanna go. i got plenty of money to not be a burden
My lifelong love affair with my sewing machines is one of the reasons I've been so hesitant to think about a Van. Plus I'm still working. Maybe if I were retired and not doing a whole lot. Plus I worry about parking, thieves, showers etc. Plus it's hella hot here in the summer and hella cold in the winter. A friend of mine did it for a while in TEXAS (I can't even imagine. I should ask her about that again).
@@SensationallySilky Tell her not to come to N FL between June and November, and S/Central FL from May through December. Unless she wants to sweat.
I lived in a truck camper for a while after getting laid off a few years back with the intention of doing it just for a few months. I liked it, but there were definitely some strange experiences out on the road. Some awesome ones too.
Be safe out there folks.
I am so happy you are back into an apartment. Happy for Rambo as well. Wishing you the very best in life.
You DO YOU Sir, don't worry about disappointing others, live your authentic self is the way to go, good luck with the van sale and definitely be back for more of you and Rambo.
Same gratitude emerges after one has lived a homeless life. When everything evens out, it is amazing to be extremely grateful for a chair, a plate, an oven and refrigerator, etc...It is a good lesson many should experience car or van life, and the perspective on life changes, compassion for others and having daily joy.
Yes! In my SUV for the last 6 months after a sudden job loss and break up and spiraled in depression, and I cannot wait to get my own place again for candlelit showers in solitude (rather than in bright & noisy gyms), and oh to BAKE AGAIN! 😭😭😭 Especially while having a load of laundry going, not having to make a day of it at the laundromat. 😩
It's made me incredibly grateful, and is it ironic to say humble too?
(Idk, people who say they're humble seems a little ironically prideful. 😅)
It was easy in the winter, but the summer heat is unbearable living like this! 😭
@Elizabeth Brower I didnt say he was homeless. He spoke of being grateful for everything MORE now, & I said thats how it is when someone is homeless-you appreciate every little thing.
@Elizabeth Brower you misquoted Jules there I think
@Elizabeth Brower but she did not say he was homeless or mean anything in a hurtfull way, she was making a lighthearted comment re not having certain home comforts. Nothing wrong in what she said I think you took her slightly the wrong way but lets leave it at that.... the world has lost its humour
@Elizabeth Brower now you are misquoting me lol
I’m glad to see you went back to van life since you made this video. Thanks for sharing Will, and Rambo!
Your honesty and openness is very refreshing and enlightening. These VL videos are so sunny and happy. I take social media with a pinch of salt
I lived in an RV for 6 months while doing a job away from home. It was quite an experience and when I came home I did appreciate it more. In my case I had a much more livable space, a 26' camper with a slide out, queen bed fridge, stove, microwave, and a bath with a shower. I also had a water and power hookup, so I didn't have to face a lot of the difficulties you had.
Never heard of you before, don’t know why this video was recommended but I am laughing at all the people trying to ‘fix’ Vanlife for you in the comments. You tried it out, wasn’t for you, and you were able to get an apartment and seems it is a better fit.
Infinite combinations of van + house or van + land or van only or apartment only work for lots of people. My friend kept her van ‘just in case’ when she moved back into an apartment and found she was just annoyed with having this big vehicle around she didn’t need anymore. Sold it, bought a small 4 wheel drive SUV she could use for occasional car camping and is much happier with that combo. I however went from car living to box truck living (with a mini van and standard van inbetween) and literally LOVE my home. There are some challenges to city dwelling in the box truck when I have contractual work. But all life has challenges. For me tho, I like what I have with the box truck. It’s been my perfect balance. I wish you well on finding yours.😊
I was reading your comment and I didn’t see what you saw in the comments and I was like I wonder who wrote this, always interested in other perspectives - it’s Dawn of Vanlife!!!!! !!Hi Dawn. This video was just recommended to me also !!
Most commenters are new to the channel but if they go back and watch from the beginning, I never said this was permanent... I told my viewers I am doing this only for 12 months then going back to normal life.. I just stopped at month 8 and felt it was enough but here they are trying to "fix me" with unsolicited advice and tell me I am making wrong life decisions lol.... That's TH-cam for ya...
Love your comment ;-)
I'm going on over a year following you, Dawn. Your IMHOs never disappoint, hero Mickey & Felix Mama! ;]]
You must have lots of money 💰 saved up ☺️
Honesty - so rare nowadays. Good luck in your next phase.
I respect your decision to achieve all that you have done while traveling as much as you have, and your choice to take some time in a different direction. We all need to get a change of scenery and activity.
BEST OF WISHES TO YOU AND RAMBO!
Been in my 40' Retired Air Force Ambulance bus about 7 years... I have every ammemity you'll have in your apartment. It's for me and my Rat Terrier I rescued in 2016. Survived 110 degree days and -6 degree days. Next week's forecast is for 106 degrees.
Bought the bus in 2015 for $5,000, built it the way I wanted it. now, I pay $150 (yes, one hundred & fifty dollars) a month rent on 2 acres about 2 miles outside of a town of 9,000 in rural Oklahoma. $16-$20 a month on water, $75-$100 a month on electric, depending on ther season. 12,500btu mini-spilit, I installed myself.
I guess one thing I miss the most would be my recliner, and the one thing I regret the most is not doing this fresh out of high school, instead of waiting till my late 40's.
It is always a work in progress, but it's my work in progress!
That sounds very, very good.
Wow! I admire you for doing this right out of high school. By the time you are in your forties you will have a beautiful home with all the monies you are saving now.
@@Bestdayever2020 he said he regrets NOT doing it straight out of high school. He is in his late 40s now. Read again.
Hi ! I’m in Kansas! I envy you!
@@Bestdayever2020 -. Wow. You must read backward. Go read it again.
This is the best #Vanlife video I've seen. This lifestyle is HARD, INCREDIBLY difficult to navigate. Everything is logistics, logistics, logistics... loneliness... being dirty.... not being safe. It's exhausting and if I wasn't homeless and if I could I would live in a gorgeous home... I WISH to have my own private bathroom and walk in closet... I am praying to God this is only temporary. I want a homestead. This "nomad" life is not glamorous or exciting really... it's dangerous and tiresome.
That's very well written Masha thanks for your insight🇬🇧
@@capgun56That is my fear. I'm 64 and I can see a day coming when homeless in my car is what I can afford. That's why I'm watching these views. Best wishes to you!
I waa homeless most of last year in a tent. Thanks toxic family! All it takes is one bad moment, like a meth head with a machete while you're sleeping at night. Cops will harass you and try to charge you with any crime they can.
Not for everyone some have compostable toilets and showers so it’s not all that for everyone seems only those with small vans and no bathroom/shower.
Good luck..wish you the Best
Thank you for your honesty. Other channels make van life look glamorous .
These issue have been stated by most van dwellers. It’s nothing new
Good for you! You did the right thing. I'm very Happy for you.
Thank You for sharing your story and life experiences.
And Thank You for telling the Truth.
@William Shaker , you're one of the lucky ones who can make a transition from van life to an apartment. As you know , alot of people choose vanlife because housing is so expensive .
From the beginning, it was a choice to do this... bought the van to travel only... not to be permanent.
@@WillandRambo do you feel like you wasted your time and money? I feel like you did. I don’t know you tho.
1. I experienced something only a few experience
2. I built up this channel from 0-9000 subs which now earns me an income with loyal viewers.
3. I have memories archived on this channel that will far outlive me.
4. My viewers learned a lot from my videos and will continue to learn each episode.
No regrets.
@@WillandRambo Yes, I have a CC camper and I really appreciated your referrals for items to buy for it. Love the vacuum, pillow covers, food containers, rugs, etc. I'm an awful shopper so it really helped me getting items from your list, thanks again!
I was going to say the same a lot of people don’t choose it it’s a necessity for a lot of ppl and that’s why can life “aesthetics” are pretty insulting and tone deaf.
A very honest assessment of vanlife. I wish you all the best, and will stick around to hear your adventures going forward.
Thank you for sharing. Good luck with your business!
Impressive! Information reflecting an upward rising curve beyond the trivial and ordinary. Do keep us updated. Thank you from Oslo 🙂
You gave it a solid go. 100% van life. That is commendable. I find the concept interesting but never tried it or moved in that direction.I have a family a regular job and a small house. I would be a part timer if I ever did this and maybe in retirement but I would never give up my house as a base. You deserve solid admiration. Much respect..
Well put in just a few words, Gerry. Thanks for the comment. I feel exactly the same myself although I'm recently retired now and the cost of adding a Class B van and buying fuel for it is a little too rich for me at this time. I love my house and wouldn't give it up.
Glorified homelessness is overrated
@@waterheaterservices ...yup...☹️
It's good to see videos like this. A lot of vloggers seem to not want to show the bad parts about van life simply because they think it won't attract viewers who want to be tantalized by all the happy moments.
very true. sunshine and bikinis get views but life is never always like that
Every van lifer that tries to monetize their lifestyle on TH-cam makes videos like this eventually. It's tedious to see these guys only talk about the good in most of their videos for a year followed by "THIS IS WHY I QUIT VAN LIFE"
If you want REAL info, watch cheapRVliving. Interviews with people who do this full-time, aren't videoing themselves doing it and showing their rigs and how they tackle problems, how they handle bathrooms and showers and what they do for work, etc. Those are the kind of people that take nomadic life seriously
@@davidlane1248 I'm a youtuber and have been living in my van (2nd van now) over 3 years. I keep it real. Van life can be hard, especially in winter. I share all that so people get a balanced view.
Like who? Every vlogger I follow shows the tough aspects of Van Life.
@@daltonbedore8396 I haven't seen any van lifers showing bikinis. Who are you watching?
Thanks for an honest assessment that it just didn't suit you where you are right now in life. It takes something to embrace that and I wish you all success with your business. Also, hugs for Rambo :)
Thank you so much for your candor. I'm in awe at all who engage in van life but for many of the reasons that you mention, especially daily moving even when you don't feel like it, is reason number 1, 2, and 3 why van life is not for me. But I will continuously live vicariously through a van lifer! All the best to you in your transition!
It’s a hard life.
I hope people see this. This is true of about 75% of people. I grew up on the road and have seen so many people waste time and money on #vanlife. Van life is hard. Full of sacrifices and always moving. Most “normal” people can’t cut it.
The way to do it is to find places and stay in each for weeks at a time and get around that area by bike/ebike so your fuel costs are negligible. Fuel will burn through any budget in no time with even a midsize van now.
I don't have this experience, never lived in a van or something like that, but I guess It may be tough.
Van life in a city stinks. You have to get out into the backcountry and then there’s no worries about bathrooms. Get the right equipment and you are good for a week or more
Sly (and the family) Stone lives in van. I’m in a van, it’s not really kitted out because it’s temporary while the engine is being overhauled in my actual camper van. . A 40 year old Bedford ambulance that I’ve had for 23 years . . Hopefully should be back on the road in a few days or so and looking forward to lighting the log burner and staying warm . .
P E A C E : )
And now you are not camping with Steve…
I absolutely loved this video! I just discovered you and your videos. What I loved was how real and authentic you were. That's my number one criteria for following people on TH-cam.
I hope you continue to keep making videos because you can probably contribute something valuable to the world.
Also love how you show respect and appreciation for your dog.
Thanks for sharing will!! I hope you have a wonderful fulfilling future!!
I really appreciate you sharing the struggles, people need to know the entire truth and not go into this blindsided. I am camping /country laid back type of girl, but I also have city in me , born and raised PHILLY. While I love the outdoors I am realistic with where I am at in life mentally. I know I would love Rv life for limited timeframe and travel vacations etc, but not everyday. Many people truly want to live off grid as well, but all of it comes with much needed research , education and resources.
You seem like a really good guy. I’m sorry van life wasn’t what you expected but wishing you and Rambo all the best in your next chapter!
Thanks for sharing your situation, you are helping a lot of folks understand how things can change, best wishes to you!
It's interesting to hear from those who have found a way to make van life work, but I've always suspected it would be tedious and exhausting for me. I can easily see myself in a situation similar to yours, saying the same things. Thanks for sharing. Your honesty is appreciated. Best of luck in your transition.
Well, I just stumbled on this and then subscribed. I’m not a van lifer, but I’ve traveled and camped considerably in my car with a combination of campgrounds and an occasional hotel. It is a great way to see the country. After a 2 or 6 month stint, it felt good to come home, though home is a bedroom at my sister’s house as I can not justify the cost of maintaining a place I’m only in 1/2 the time. Hopefully things will work out for you so that you feel comfortable doing some of that extended travel that you planned on in the first place.
One thing I learned at the start of becoming a nomad was realizing not to be moving all the time. I would find a beautiful place and stay there for months. I think people move around too much and they get very burned out. But after many years of traveling as a nomad around the United States I am now still in my motorhome but parked somewhere where I'm on private property and I'm two blocks from the Pacific Ocean in southern California. And to be honest I'm enjoying not having to think about all the hassles of what it does take to be a nomad on the road. I really respect you and thanks for coming on and being honest about this. More people need to be honest about living a nomadic life in a van. I could never live in a van. I live in a Class C motorhome it gives me much more room, a bathroom a shower, I don't see how people do it without that. Take care and good luck with everything you're going to be endeavoring to take on.
Esp with fuel prices now. I make a point of as long as possible at each stop over.
As a plus, I am putting way fewer km on my van so retaining resale value too.
I camped in my SUV until my little dog tore her ACL and we returned to sticks and bricks for her 6 month rehab. I loved staying 14 days in one spot, then reupped supplies, did laundry, on to the next spot for 14 days. Privacy tent for the outhouse (bucket loo); collapsible bucket and submersible pump for a shower; canopy for a living/dining/kitchen; bed, fridge, pantry, storage in the SUV; cargo box on top for additional storage, and let's not forget the SheWee and bottle 😊. Perfect setup for a middle aged lady and her Yorkie. Life was good, low stress, fresh air and sunshine, tons of hiking. Can't wait to get back out there, either in a van or my SUV.
@@catpatrick3838 hey Cat what is a shewee and a bottle? Wow you are very very inventive and you did it all in an SUV that amazes me. Yes I think you got the same feeling I did, if you're going to unpack and do all that kind of stuff why stay somewhere for one or two nights. stay two weeks get to feel, the energy of that particular place and take it in and get the feel for it you know? That's how I looked at it I wasn't about to break down every night and just keep moving. I knew that that was not going to serve me well by any stretch of the imagination. I can't believe all the stuff you had and how you created a bathroom for yourself and the shower and wow amazing. you are very resilient innovative and creative. If you don't mind me asking how old are you? I've been doing this for about 20 years and right now I'm 64 but right now I am parked I forgot if I said this in my comment I am parked due to getting very ill and being disabled. basically I couldn't travel even if I wanted to but right now I'm kind of over it the cost of gas is incredible and just going from place to place it becomes I don't know for me it became aimless after a while. I don't know if you can understand that feeling. I'm very sorry to hear about your Yorkie I hope that your Yorkie mends perfectly. you didn't mention how your dog is doing. I have a service dog he's a miniature schnauzer mix he is the cutest thing ever. And he's my best friend and my reason to go on day after day. I need him he needs me. Have you ever thought of getting a little bit bigger RV? I could never live in a van it would stress me out. I live in a 25-foot Class C motorhome and it's just a beautiful amount of space I have everything I need built right into the unit and by no means do I have money. anyways thanks again for replying to me I really appreciate it. Take good care of yourself and I'll be interested in your future plans on the road.
@@kavitadeva A shewee is a pee funnel, aka a female urinary device, the bottle held the pee. My main reason for using the SUV was the fact that I already own it, it's paid for, and gets 25 to 27 mpg on the highway. I rarely went through a tank of gas in a month by staying in one spot for two weeks and moving to a new spot less than 200 miles away for the next 14 days. I love to hike so I tried to find free camping near multiple hiking trails. Since Hannah's (my Yorkie) hiking days are over for the most part, I use an outward hound pouch for her, hydration backpack on my back, dog on the front. It works for us. She has healed nicely but the arthritis in her knees is pretty bad. I am 60 and fortunately have no health problems. Hiking keeps me in shape and I stick to easy/moderate trails. I'm sorry that health issues have put a stop to your travels. I miss being on the road and seeing new places. Before the doggo was released after her surgery I ended up working again. I'm replenishing the savings so I can hit the road again when the job ends. Being an independent contractor is awesome in that respect. I really don't want anything big to travel in. An RV would just stress me out, even a 148" wheel base van seems huge compared to my midsize SUV. I'm not in it except for driving and sleeping so it works perfectly. I love the size and the MPG of my vehicle for travel. I always said I didn't live in my car, I lived out of it. I cook on a single burner propane/butane stove. AeroPress or Melitta pour over for coffee, three 6 gallon water containers was plenty for two weeks and allowed me to shower every other day and wash my hair twice a week. I use less than half a gallon of water to shower - get wet, soap up, rinse off, done. Solar charged power station/generator to run my fridge, charge the phone, tablets, computer. It's a simple life, just enjoying nature, listening to the wind whispering through the trees, the sounds of water flowing over rocks, birdsong. Up at dawn, in bed when the sun set. I really can't wait for this project to end so I can get out there and do it again. I'm like a caged animal right now. 😂
My son tried the nomad life for a while, his remote job though required more stability and he finally had to find an apartment. But he enjoyed it and may consider later a mini and staying longer term in situations like you mentioned.
Glad you were able to experience van life + share it w/us. It’s good to hear updates. Enjoy your new digs. 😎
This is proving to be fascinating!! Congratulations on your business doing so well!! Love to see an apartment tour and your excellent commentary.
This was a great video. Everything you do becomes successful. Keep making more videos! I love Rambo!
Every day I'd check your channel for a new video. After a while the only thing I was thinking was "I hope they are okay!". I'm glad you're taking care of your needs. Thank you for sharing part of your life's journey. Your videos have been entertaining and I learned a lot about van life and about life life. Cheers and best of luck.
Wishing you success in your business William. You chose what is important. Hope to enjoy more videos with updates👍😊
This the first I have watched a video of yours BUT at-least you did it man - at least you were adventurous and did something AWESOME and that my friend is never ever anything to feel bad about - you have to pay the bills, that’s a fact of life so I am really glad your business is doing so much better!
I'm glad things are picking up for you. Looking forward to it getting even better 👍
I've only recently found your channel, & have enjoyed watching.
You have learned so much from these experiences that you will keep with you & draw from for the rest of your life! Only hoping the best for you, Rambo, & all your future endeavors, where ever you are lead.
I'm so happy your life is turning around!
You seem like a really nice guy! I wish you all the best! Thanks for sharing your experience on and off the road!
Thanks for the insights! I'm 68, and the 25 year old in me contemplated van living, but I have since come to my mature senses.
I appreciate you honesty and lack of sugarcoating.
I really appreciate your honest opinion. Other people don't give you the real story. They pretend living "ok". They hide all the issues.
This is an important topic and your candor is refreshing. In addition to highlighting the importance of honoring our individual needs by making bold changes, I feel it also shows the importance of designing a vanlife, or any type of life, that can flex while meeting those needs. For me, that means a build with a bathroom and comfortable mattress. Staying in one camping place or other location for several weeks or longer supports getting into a flow and attending to those work life details. I’m glad to hear you are doing and feeling better! Enjoy your fresh start!
Lifes journey and whatever life's experiences you have, give life a great perspective.
Great video. Thankyou for sharing.
Your experience in van life when you are young makes you appreciate your home and the idea of minimalism.
William, sometimes you only know if something is right for you when you do it. Admittedly van life is certainly not right for everyone.(and certainly not right for everyone at any time.) I think there is this hype which makes it seem like if you build out a van and take it on the road you're going to love it and it's gonna be the right decision for everyone. I don't think it is.
There is no shame in discovering it's not working out for whatever reason. I really respect your hustle and honesty. Best of luck to you!
I agree do what is right for you. I even say that when it comes to decor as long as it’s clean and comfy. I would like to see u do an apt tour and the transition. Many blessings and stay safe.
What do you mean not right for everyone at any time ? His experience is his and his only. Don’t put it on “everyone”.
I got rid of it
I owned an older RV. It was 26 feet, too long for me. I was scared to drive it! So
I think it's awesome that you are off to your next adventure and that you were very upfront as to why you need to do this transition. Look forward to more about your transition from the minimalist living in a van to expanding your life now in an apartment and running your amazon business even more so.
Great vid. Apartment life would be interesting to learn about. Thanks for your entertaining and very interesting videos.
Much respect & honesty you explaining the challenges of van life because, so many other van lifers never mention the challenges they come up against. All of your van life challenges were good logic reasons to consider before living a van life. God bless
The best thing is you’re living life YOUR way and isn’t that what it’s all about? Well done!
Thanks for the update. Van life doesn't have to be a forever thing,. You had a great experience that you will always have.
Appreciate the honesty. I've been looking into van life as an escape of the mundane life of retirement. BUT your honesty has opened my eyes
I'm in my 60 and I think it's great that you decide to do sometime for yourself, Keep living your dreams in or out of your van.
I bailed on van life too. Mostly I decided I really preferred international travel and decided to do that instead. I got 5000 more for my van than I paid for it which was an incentive to sell too. The van was a good distraction during Covid but now I can travel overseas again.
I love travelling overseas...women...beer..bars..beaches and more women. Cant have sex in a van when when your travelling internationally!
I started out in a van doing 'vanlife' about 15 years ago. It got real old real fast for all the reasons you mentioned - until I went to an RV show! I ended up purchasing a small lightly-used RV and there was no looking back! Although it was a small travel trailer (18ft), it has a full kitchen with stove, microwave, and oven, a full bathroom with nice hot shower, comfortable bed, furnace, AC, entertainment center, and an electric awning! I sold that after 2 years and now have a truck camper which is versatile and more manueverable allowing me to boondock on beaches with my 4wd pickup. I happy to say I put vanlife in my rear view mirror for good!
Great insightful comment. Ty!
Hi, Will. I'm a first-time visitor catching you on your way out of vanlife. 🙂 I'm glad to hear that your biz is on the rebound - that's great and a lot less stress in your life!
Unless your significant other shares your vision and doesn't mind all of the inconveniences associated with vanlife, some of which you identified in this video, for guys like me vanlife is a non-starter. Plus, my wife also owns a small business in town and it can't run without her.
My passions in life also make vanlife highly infeasible. I'm a musician with multiple musical instruments, and because I love both road bicycling and mountain biking (and my wife has an e-bike), we have a minimum of 3 bikes between us. I fear these valuables would be at great risk of theft via vanlife.
We also live in a serene, hilly section of a small So. Cal. town, surrounded by tons of beautiful tall trees. It's a modest house but one we love calling "home" which would miss dearly via vanlife.
I look forward to your forthcoming videos on your new life chapters, Will. All the best to you! Liked and subscribed. 🙂
Thank you! New videos soon.. (really)
I am happy you got out of that van. Good luck with your new home!
Thanks for sharing. I bet your pup is more comfortable. I hope he has his own cozy dog bed. Folks forget how hard the floor gets for dogs, especially big dogs whether in a van or home. Good for you guys and what a treat to live in San Diego, wow!!!
So I am a first time watcher and actually I respect you for taking a break and focusing on your business. I’ve always worked for myself since I was 18, I’m now 34.
I have this spirit of loving my own freedom and not wanting someone to tell me when and how to do it. Other than being accountable to my clients.
I will go back and check out a few of your videos. Beautiful dog by the way. Everyone has thoughts but at the end of the day they don’t pay your bills, or have to walk your journey.
God bless
I love the honesty, and you being practical with what works for you in the real world (for your goals). I will continue to follow.
Thanks for being honest and sharing your experience
One of the best videos on yt. Seriously, your honesty is so refreshing.
I'm so curious what you sell on Amazon. Would love a video on that.
Do what is good for you William. I will still be interested in your and Rambo's adventures whether in a van or not in a van. Good to see the two of you.
I appreciate your honesty about the Van Life struggles....so many make it look easy. So, even tho this is the first video of yours that I've ever seen, I subscribed. Best of luck to you in your new Apt. 💕
Sounds amazing. Can’t wait . All the reasons you gave are reason I want to start
Yes, I'm glad you did this video on quitting. I haven't started van life yet, but now I'm thinking twice! And I'd love a tour of the apartment as I'm also considering this option. TY
People are sold on the vanlife dream through instagram and youtube which makes it look like it's all freedom, sunshine and rainbows when it really isn't . I've been watching a lot of videos on the negative aspects of vanlife to really know what I'm getting into, but I still want to try! Definitely not full time though, just a few weeks at a time at most because I really love road trips and waking up to a new adventure each day.
Thank you for your honesty!
“ adventure “ means “ survival “! !
exactly!! work hard,, buy or rent a little home.. and then enjoy van life for few weeks during vacations or every weekend if you like... I believe that's the best formula...
Sometimes I will take a road trip south for about a month or so in my truck and trailer combo. After a few weeks I am longing for my home where I have lived for 50 years. I seriously doubt I would last very long as a full time RV;er !😊
The negative aspects are there but not as many for ppl with some money and good set ups.
Good video. Best of luck in the future. The only constant in life is change.
☘️🌝🌲
Congrats on all. Sorry that life has taken a twist.. but life also goes on . Blessings to you and Rambo. ❤️👍🥰
Very informative & I think casual travel is best in a van. The constant moving sounds a bit chaotic. Congrats on your new chapter. I believe that your rental life sounds exciting. You can always move, if you don’t like it.
I love that you were able to focus on your business and take it to a new level even in this economy. Congratulations.
Definitely want the new tour.
And you made me appreciate what I have in my home.
You don't miss the water till the well runs dry.
I appreciate your total honesty.
I hate the fact that some people romanticise the van life, but don't show how ugly it can get at times.
I hope you and Rambo enjoy your new life.
Been doing van life for a year. I have loved every minute of it.
Been is the magic word...
The way the dog is intently listening lol I love it