I would suggest a curtain on a pressure rod behind the front seats. That gives the impression of just parking (not camping), but hides all that is in the back. Plus it's easy to just pull a curtain shut.
I'm retired now, selling my home and planning to live this stress free van life within the next year. I've really enjoyed all of your videos and information to help with the planning. It's going to be a adventure being a single woman, but I'm up for the challenge and love to travel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Keep up the good work!!! Blessings to you both
Van life in all reality SUCKS. Sorry but it is 100% true. I enjoy freedom of travel but everything is 1000 times more difficult than living in a home. Oh well i would not listen to people telling me how hard it was and learned it myself after investing 30,000 into it.
If you neck is a re-occurring problem, I bought a neck stretching inflatable collar off Amazon. It has three zones and a hose that connects to a bulb to squeeze to inflate it. Pump it up to get some traction on your neck for 30 minutes or so, and you might get some relief. Worked for us anyway...good luck.
Another thing I would suggest for Leo is to have one of those inside outside digital temp gauges with wifi. This way you can always make sure he is ok. Equipment breaks and if no one is around that could end badly, especially in hotter climates.
WOW... I lived in Astoria from 2011-13, still own part interest in at 1886 farm house at 3rd and Franklin, I miss it a lot. SO happy you found the Sunday market, what a joy it is... and coming up shortly is the 10k Astoria Megler bridge walk run... I've done it twice and what a view from the top of the bridge.... so neat... Summer 2015 I was a volunteer at Haystack Rock with the US Fish and Wildlife, talk about an office... I had it 20 hours a week and in return I had a rv site with full hook ups for 4 months in the Ecola State Park just north of Cannon Beach. Memories... thank you so much!!
Ha!! Not a month ago we parked at the Safeway lot in Astoria. A cop came to our door and told us that parking overnight in Astoria was not allowed but he was nice enough to say he wouldn't be back anymore that night (wink, wink). We spent th4 night and left the next day.
Very nice video! I really enjoy you guys sharing your day to day living experience. Your videos don’t have to be about new and exciting adventures all the time. I really enjoy you showing us how you three relax, cook, have a movie night. After all, this is what it’s all about also Right? Thanks for sharing All your great adventures with us. Wishing you both (+ Leo ) many safe and happy miles of smiles!
In typical fashion yet another excellent video! I'm starting to forget other people and other couples that do RV videos and just watch you guys exclusively! Keep up the good work!
Love seeing Leo. When my late husband and I married our first baby was a Samyoed named Shadow because he followed me like one. We also loved Kim Chi! Last week would have been our 31st anniversary. I hope you both as much happiness as we had.
Lived and worked in Astoria during filming of Short Circuit, Kindergarten Cop and The Goonies. Watched early morning car chase scenes filmed on Commercial Street for Kindergarten Cop from my office window. Spent all day in court the day they filmed opening sequence of The Goonies. The distraction fire during the opening scene was the film crew torching the parking stop barrier right outside the jail. I knew the head of maintenance for the County, we had teased him for a long time to re-paint those parking barriers and the summer he did, the Goonies crew set them on fire. He stood next to me on the 2nd floor of the courthouse when they touched off the fire. Peed with Anne Ramsay in the 1st floor ladies room and we exchanged pleasantries. Very nice lady. She was in costume. The jail scene when Chunk calls the police was filmed in the maintenance man's old office. I see it is the gift shop now. Spent a lot of time in that jail office and elsewhere in the building. One of the upstairs holding rooms was used for an evidence overflow room. Walked in once to see a 5 foot pile of seized marijuana plants, still with roots and dirt attached, heaped in the middle of the floor. Helped clean out the maintenance man's office once. Was clearly books and boxes off shelving and came across boxes of old crime scene photos. Thank God they were mostly black and white. Found a pile of old uniform patches. Asked the Sheriff if I could have them, he said "I don't care." Doubt that would happen today. Still have them. Watched a stunt man run off the back courthouse steps and dive thru the sunroof of the getaway car from the opening sequence. He tried numerous times until they finally decided just to have the Fratelli Brothers get in the car the usual way. Stunt man was padded up, but we saw him hit pretty hard attempting the stunt. One of the officers chasing the Fratellis out the door of the jail was an actual deputy that we knew pretty well. In saw him make the worst oatmeal in the new Clatsop County Jail kitchen when the cook was late arriving to make breakfast for the inmates. My dad was an electrician who worked on the new jail, spent a lot timee in that building trying to find my dad to get his truck keys. We carpooled while I was attending Clatsop Community College. My best friend worked maintenance/janitorial fie the jail, old and new one. Fun times.
Since the van is both your home and transportation would it make sense to use LoJack, TeleTrac or some other type of GPS based vehicle tracking system for the unlikely situation your vehicle is stolen?
speaking of having your van broken into reminds me of when my folks and us kids went away camping for a week. When Dad would drive back into the driveway he would always say it is still there. Always.
I don't think its an issue of friendliness more of an issue of having to manage swarms tourists descending on their town. I know its sometimes their life blood but they still have to deal with it.
I am totally with you both having the same size RV van:) Just the thought of a tow:( etc......... back up everything online, videos, credit cards etc............and make sure you have a spare key on a lock box! Just in case.........You both are great.ok the three of you. Take care..........If you ever visit California hope to meet all three.
- Wow, I can hear the sea lions! - I would carry around a backpack, so you can keep your most values with you all the time. - I am so happy to see a video from you! - I hope the other van people comment.🙂🤞🏼 Random question- How do you resist buying souvenirs from each location?
Thanks for the advice and we never buy souvenirs because we live in a van! Where would we put everything? If it doesn't have a use, it doesn't come with us. Plus we have a one in, one out rule so we'd never have more than one souvenir at a time!
We're the Russos Easy solution for the souvenir thing! I find having something tangible from different places just makes me happy but storing "stuff" becomes laborious and eventually takes up too much space, unless..... We collect "flat" items! *Fridge magnets, also stick on interior beams, or walls *Keychains, you've always got your keys anyway and if you find something really unique and special, it's easy to tote around *Postcards!! Postcards are the best! They often share high quality and unique vantage points of the city, perhaps unique events, etc. You can send them to friends or do what we have done, put them in a binder, maybe even along with some photos or some of those squashed pennies from tourist machines. A binder is flat and easy to store. Great way to keep inexpensive souvenirs without the clutter and it's not digitized, so it's always available without electricity, or if a computer crashes, if back ups burn out...!
I'm glad you talked about how you take care of Leo inside the van. My concern is that someone will break into my van trying to take my dog out sometime. We also use the fans and never never ever leave them in when it's warm. Thank you for covering that. I think it's important for the public to see that and also for people who used vans to see it.
It's good enough for me Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah....!! I really enjoy videos where we can both experience you in the Hymer and experience the surroundings. I love the explanations about the parking and restrictions. Beware of people putting stickers on your car in Oregon. I read somewhere a van dweller had a sticker that said "No van camping" was placed on their bumper and it wouldn't come off. Someone else said the person put it on the body of their van and window! Keep making videos like these! Enjoy your journey! Woof!
Love watching y’all 4 1/2 years my kids will be graduating HS 2 1/2 years I’m buying my van and parking it in my driveway And starting to build it I cannot wait Watching videos like this keep me going
Wow! Was just saying to myself how I can't wait until your next video and bam! Here it is. Wonderful video. Great scenery and very educational. Looking forward to your next shared adventure. Thanks!
My favorite 80s movie is hard to choose. I grew up in the 80s. Now, maybe Empire Strikes Back, but I do love Goonies too. You two look great. Van life really suits you, as does Kate's cooking. Also, it's very refreshing to see a woman drive. I'm very much a take-charge person and I can't imagine just sitting back and not driving while traveling. But, everyone is different. Thanks so much for sharing!
You guys are adorable together! Your van is the best designed I have seen to date. I'm hoping to make van-living my lifestyle when I retire in 2019! Thanks for the inspiration!
I dream that someday I will have a van like that and be able to travel and see many places, but for now I will do it with both of you with your videos, thanks for sharing those beautiful places
I thought the "Limited Addition Cards" comment was really funny. I love it when the problem is the solution. Thank you so much for all of your content, and I really appreciate your spirit and kindness. Thanks.
I live in Hillsboro OR, about 15 miles west of Portland. The Hood to Coast is big thing. Teams of runners start at Mt Hood and run as a relay all the way to the coast. Vans follow the runners and pick up and drop off them as they are done on their leg.
We loved Oregon also when we traveled there and the blackberries... Great video! Thanks for all your hard work of the videos means a lot to me as I am stuck at home with a hubby who is healing. Happy Trails!
I was so pleased to hear that you were in Astoria as I have been there twice and absolutely loved it, along with Cape Disappointment and Long Beach, Wa. I think you over looked a gem here but when plans change along with the weather a taste is better a deluge or a roasting in an oven. Across the bridge in Wa is one of the best campgrounds I have ever tented at but probably pretty hard to find a spot on a weekend. I think the shades for the van windows are the right choice but security wise it is pretty much a toss up as it may look like your hiding something. (Earthen barrier holding back water)ed if you do or (Earthen barrier holding back water)ed don't
Jed and I were just there not too long ago. We love it there and went there twice with one 2 month period haha. Movie museum was cool, but tiny. We stayed at Safeway as well. Super cool area, next to the water, seals, and waterfront trail :) Hope to meet you on the road someday. We are at crater lake currently and slowly heading south for the winter. Death Valley is next. We don’t have a Sprinter, but we do live in a Chevy Express extended that we converted. We both have channels btw. Also you can walk up to the start of the driveway (it’s like a community driveway that 3 houses use). And you can see the house better from like a block away.
I love Depoe Bay......the whales hang around that channel year round. Next time you visit Oregon, check out near Brookings, The mouth of the Rogue River......We rode in a flat bottom boat up the river.....first there was a seal eating a salmon, then ,river otters, deer eagles Ospreys and their nests, a bear and lots more....a sturgeon (very large fish). We all got off the boat 1/2 way up and had a very lovely lunch......The Pilot of our boat did 360's and we all got wet......blankets for everyone as we approached the dock. The most fun, single day of my life. 🐋🐳🛥🆓🆒🇺🇸
You talking about watching Goonies made me decide to watch it again tonight! Love your videos, I'm learning about van living from you thinking it's my retirement plan.
Dang, I wish I knew you were going to Astoria! Next time you need to do two more things; go to the Maritime Museum and the Astoria Column. The Maritime Museum is one of the most interesting I've ever been to. The mini film on the bar pilots is wonderful. The view from the Column is the best you can get without climbing a mountain.
The Maritime Museum is great! I stood and stared at the Coast Guard diorama for a long time. God bless our Coasties. Between the Astoria CG and the bar pilots, awesome people work the river and the bar!
I did the same thing at the same time , only I overnight-ed at Seaside (about 12 miles south along US 101). Stayed at the convention center parking lot adjacent to the Shilo Inn. Short walk to the boardwalk, and great picture-taking opportunities. No issues, with an '04 Pleasureway Lexor TD.
😁🤣One of my all time favorites from the 80s (in addition to The Goonies) is Planes, Trains and Automobiles with John Candy and Steve Martin. It’s hilarious. ” Pillows those aren’t pillows” 🤣😂🤣 So many funny lines and parts of the story...I need to watch it again soon. 😁 But...there are several good ones on my list of favs from the 80s so it’s really difficult to choose just one.
I believe you said you had a gym membership for showers in one episode. If they have hot tubs you need to get in as often as possible, sink down, and run the jets on the pinched nerve area. Will take a couple of months to heal.
Hood to Coast and Portland to Coast weekend. Runners and walkers end up in Seaside. Done it but a lot of sitting in the van waiting for team mates. Astoria is one of my favorite towns on the Oregon Coast.
I love Oregon and my husband and two Aunt's who are in there 90 went with us to Astoria. So beautiful your video was GREAT THANKS FOR SHARING. Love your dog.
Hey guys glad you're back traveling. You guys mentioned three of my favorite movies. Who can forget "hey you guys" from Goonies or "it's not a tumor" from kindergarten cop. Hilarious. Favorite 80's movie, too many to mention. We're kinda movie buffs. Astoria was lovely and peaceful. Another movie filmed there was Free Willy. Who knew. Texas does have many RV shows so if you're ever in the area and plan to make an appearance, drop us a note. We'd like to meet up with you guys. Till then, keep on shuffling, take care of each other and Leo. Big Fans from Texas Arnold and Josie (Hershey and Chico)
Great video!!! We pick up our camper van in a few weeks and although we will not be living out of it full time, we are anticipating some stressful encounters in the van shuffle. :) We also bought our Berkley......check out the LifeSaver jerry can. We got one of those too. It's awesome. Thanks again! Keep enjoying!
Cool Jerry can but wow that thing is pricey! With the Berkey we don't have much reason for the Lifesaver since we can get water from our 30 gallon tank and filter it through the Berkey.
They're on sale now for $250 as they company has been sending them to the hurricane victims in TX, FL and the PR. We used it this weekend camping and it was very cool. I think we will keep the Berkey in house. We didn't have something for the house. We aren't cool like ya'll and still live in a house! :)
Are you kidding the 80s had some great movies it was a great time to be a kid/teenager! There are several good ones on my list of favs from the 80s so it’s really difficult to choose just one.... - Star Wars Empire Strikes Back - The Terminator - Gremlins - Ghostbusters - The Goonies - Planes, Trains And Automobiles - The Breakfast Club - ET - Back To The Future - Karate Kid - Stand By Me - Top Gun - Young Guns - Weekend At Bernie’s - Who Framed Roger Rabbit - The Outsiders - Do the Right Thing - Beverly Hills Cop - Die Hard - Platoon - Full Metal Jacket - Rocky IV - First Blood - The Untouchables - The Verdict - Revenge Of The Nerds - 16 Candles - Stand And Deliver - Coming to America - Raiders Of The Lost Ark - Ferris Bueller's Day Of * Note: movies are not listed in any particular order of preference
+ We're the Russos - Me too. As I was typing the list so fast, one movie reminded me of another & another and was bringing back such good memories. I’m having a movie marathon all fall & winter long. 😁
Brilliant lifestyle! I'm in the thoughts of selling my house and hitting the road in a van home, travelling full time around my beloved country Australia with my little dog.. Being a chick at 42 I'm ready to hit the road, find work and explore! Thank you goonie lovers it's my all time fav childhood adventure movie too I love it!! xo
I'm so glad you got to see a whale! One of the best things about the coast in my opinion. It took me 14 years to get back in Oregon. I'm not leaving anytime soon. I've noticed how van friendly the state is and have been educating myself on this interesting housing option.
Awesome video! Thanks... All your videos are inspiring... I am looking forward to my new (upcoming) adventure... Thank you for sharing your RV travel stories.
Found your channel today and I’m in love with the three of you 💖 Currently my favorite couple, ever, on TH-cam. I’m inspired to try this van life...someday 🙏🏼
New subscriber here from Hawaii. I was so excited to know you guys were in Astoria. I was stationed in the USCG Airstation years ago and it's awesome to see new places.
We have discovered a chiropractor called “The Joint”. They are mostly in larger cities, but offer the option to get adjusted while on the road. Not too expensive either. Check them out!
Interesting, we've seen them - my question is, if you go to a new one, does your file carry over? The places I've gone all want a "first time" exam so rather than paying 30 or so, it's over 100.
We're the Russos opps, sorry - yes, your file carries over and is computerized. You can buy a “package of a few visits” but not necessary. Our last visit was $29, you simply walk in. You have a little key tag with your info like you get at a store.
Humm, I was still in the Army when the Goonies came out (85' I think), and in my mid 20's, so I never saw the movie! Glad your ordeal with the pinched nerve is over-those things suck big time! Astoria seems like a very chill, laid back town. I've been to Portland before on business, but never toured the State! Another great video you three! Btw, I saw Mama Russo's comment: Your dad made "Real Genius"? 👍👌✌🏻😎🍻
Yep, Real Genius was one of many he worked on...and one of which I got to be on set with him during my summer vacation as a kid. I miss him and those days :( You have to the Goonies if you never have...it should be required watching ;)
We're the Russos That is so cool Joe! Kinda explains where you get your love for filmmaking-its in the blood! I'll see if I can find Goonies online somewhere! Netflix & Hulu aren't streaming it right now!
My neice and her husband owned the Goonies house for years and recently moved because people bugged them so much. That is why a sign went up not to bug them. Sadly, sometimes people were pretty outrageously disrespectful.
I'm well into the book now and its a very good read. I was surprised to hear that you are a train fan like me and don't recall seeing any visits to railways on any of your videos or did I miss them?
Hi Joe and Kait, I just finished reading your book and I can;t wait for the next one and Kait's cook book too. Joe the book was well written and Kait I enjoyed your pictures. Where is Duke? Love you guys. If you are ever near Sacramento California I would love to meet you. I am inspired by your story Happy Safe Travels, Tammie
Hey Tammie - thank you so much and if you have a moment please consider leaving a review on Amazon. Duke passed away while we were on the road - that was tough for us: th-cam.com/video/gR-Da5BdskE/w-d-xo.html
Awesome video! Great info to think about if I decide to do van life! I would love to get a sprinter probably a 2004 or 2006. Seems like such an interesting lifestyle I would love to be on the road like you guys!
Astoria is a lovely place, be sure not to miss the small towns around it. Don’t forget the beach. The big white building is the John Jacob Astor Building, don’t forget the Astor Column
We're the Russos I had 3 disks removed and rebuilt. Steel and plastic added and various other things fixed. My Dr keeps stressing the slow down point it is easy to say hard to do. I need to try Yoga or something to slow down.
Watch Episode 23: goo.gl/XT9uyj
Astoria Oregon: weretherussos.com/things-to-do-in-astoria-oregon/
Van Life FAQ -> weretherussos.com/camper-van-life-faq/
Pretty in pink
When Harry Met Sally
Top Gun
Empire Strikes Back
Princess Bride
I would suggest a curtain on a pressure rod behind the front seats. That gives the impression of just parking (not camping), but hides all that is in the back. Plus it's easy to just pull a curtain shut.
I'm retired now, selling my home and planning to live this stress free van life within the next year. I've really enjoyed all of your videos and information to help with the planning. It's going to be a adventure being a single woman, but I'm up for the challenge and love to travel. Any advice would be greatly appreciated! Keep up the good work!!! Blessings to you both
Tracy McCain Here’s some advice...find yourself a man
Van life in all reality SUCKS. Sorry but it is 100% true. I enjoy freedom of travel but everything is 1000 times more difficult than living in a home. Oh well i would not listen to people telling me how hard it was and learned it myself after investing 30,000 into it.
Me too.
Mirciulica
If you neck is a re-occurring problem, I bought a neck stretching inflatable collar off Amazon. It has three zones and a hose that connects to a bulb to squeeze to inflate it. Pump it up to get some traction on your neck for 30 minutes or so, and you might get some relief. Worked for us anyway...good luck.
Another thing I would suggest for Leo is to have one of those inside outside digital temp gauges with wifi. This way you can always make sure he is ok. Equipment breaks and if no one is around that could end badly, especially in hotter climates.
Better made and more enjoyable watching ordinary humans living their nomadic life, than anything on TV. Thanks guys. Have a safe journey.
I lived in Astoria for awhile and it's a nice little town. And don't forget about "Free Willy"! they filmed that in Astoria
Had a Korean roommate,and she made that rice,egg, Kimchee thingee all the time-YUM
Prefer Taco Bell myself.
In my opinion one of your best videos. Sooooo relaxing. What stress? The sunset shoots were amazing. We gotta get out there. Love ❤️ Oregon. Be safe.
+HDLowrider the only stress is worrying about where we'll park/sleep that night but hey, it's more than worth it when you have those sunsets!
WOW... I lived in Astoria from 2011-13, still own part interest in at 1886 farm house at 3rd and Franklin, I miss it a lot. SO happy you found the Sunday market, what a joy it is... and coming up shortly is the 10k Astoria Megler bridge walk run... I've done it twice and what a view from the top of the bridge.... so neat... Summer 2015 I was a volunteer at Haystack Rock with the US Fish and Wildlife, talk about an office... I had it 20 hours a week and in return I had a rv site with full hook ups for 4 months in the Ecola State Park just north of Cannon Beach. Memories... thank you so much!!
I full time in my Minnie Winnie... love your channel...
Thank you and we really loved it up there. We're going to have to go and spend more time!
This is the best video you guys have ever made in my opinion! Keep up the good work!
Think about adding a hidden "kill switch" for the ignition. That would eliminate one concern about leaving the van unattended.
Doggo is there no worries.
Ha!! Not a month ago we parked at the Safeway lot in Astoria. A cop came to our door and told us that parking overnight in Astoria was not allowed but he was nice enough to say he wouldn't be back anymore that night (wink, wink). We spent th4 night and left the next day.
over the last year or 2 you vids and pics keep getting better and better
Very nice video! I really enjoy you guys sharing your day to day living experience. Your videos don’t have to be about new and exciting adventures all the time. I really enjoy you showing us how you three relax, cook, have a movie night. After all, this is what it’s all about also Right? Thanks for sharing All your great adventures with us. Wishing you both (+ Leo ) many safe and happy miles of smiles!
Just finished reading your book, "Take Risks". Nice job, really enjoyed reading it. Looking forward to the next one. Thanks
In typical fashion yet another excellent video! I'm starting to forget other people and other couples that do RV videos and just watch you guys exclusively! Keep up the good work!
Love the Leo! Thanks for sharing your experiences... you two seem to balance each other out - so awesome! Hope you neck feels better.. chill out!
Love seeing Leo. When my late husband and I married our first baby was a Samyoed named Shadow because he followed me like one. We also loved Kim Chi! Last week would have been our 31st anniversary. I hope you both as much happiness as we had.
Lived and worked in Astoria during filming of Short Circuit, Kindergarten Cop and The Goonies. Watched early morning car chase scenes filmed on Commercial Street for Kindergarten Cop from my office window. Spent all day in court the day they filmed opening sequence of The Goonies. The distraction fire during the opening scene was the film crew torching the parking stop barrier right outside the jail. I knew the head of maintenance for the County, we had teased him for a long time to re-paint those parking barriers and the summer he did, the Goonies crew set them on fire. He stood next to me on the 2nd floor of the courthouse when they touched off the fire. Peed with Anne Ramsay in the 1st floor ladies room and we exchanged pleasantries. Very nice lady. She was in costume. The jail scene when Chunk calls the police was filmed in the maintenance man's old office. I see it is the gift shop now. Spent a lot of time in that jail office and elsewhere in the building. One of the upstairs holding rooms was used for an evidence overflow room. Walked in once to see a 5 foot pile of seized marijuana plants, still with roots and dirt attached, heaped in the middle of the floor. Helped clean out the maintenance man's office once. Was clearly books and boxes off shelving and came across boxes of old crime scene photos. Thank God they were mostly black and white. Found a pile of old uniform patches. Asked the Sheriff if I could have them, he said "I don't care." Doubt that would happen today. Still have them. Watched a stunt man run off the back courthouse steps and dive thru the sunroof of the getaway car from the opening sequence. He tried numerous times until they finally decided just to have the Fratelli Brothers get in the car the usual way. Stunt man was padded up, but we saw him hit pretty hard attempting the stunt. One of the officers chasing the Fratellis out the door of the jail was an actual deputy that we knew pretty well. In saw him make the worst oatmeal in the new Clatsop County Jail kitchen when the cook was late arriving to make breakfast for the inmates. My dad was an electrician who worked on the new jail, spent a lot timee in that building trying to find my dad to get his truck keys. We carpooled while I was attending Clatsop Community College. My best friend worked maintenance/janitorial fie the jail, old and new one. Fun times.
Since the van is both your home and transportation would it make sense to use LoJack, TeleTrac or some other type of GPS based vehicle tracking system for the unlikely situation your vehicle is stolen?
speaking of having your van broken into reminds me of when my folks and us kids went away camping for a week. When Dad would drive back into the driveway he would always say it is still there. Always.
Some cities really do just feel not friendly. I love how you guys found a nice spot!
Thanks...we were a bit nervous at first but it was quite and no one seemed to mind.
I don't think its an issue of friendliness more of an issue of having to manage swarms tourists descending on their town. I know its sometimes their life blood but they still have to deal with it.
I am totally with you both having the same size RV van:) Just the thought of a tow:( etc......... back up everything online, videos, credit cards etc............and make sure you have a spare key on a lock box! Just in case.........You both are great.ok the three of you. Take care..........If you ever visit California hope to meet all three.
Lost On Land Again the one for me is new york
Sacramento Cali is not van friendly at all
This is a nice rv van . I like it a lot. You do such a nice job making videos.
The most happy and laid back van lifers I have ever seen..
Looks like van dwelling is not super stressful.
- Wow, I can hear the sea lions!
- I would carry around a backpack, so you can keep your most values with you all the time.
- I am so happy to see a video from you!
- I hope the other van people comment.🙂🤞🏼
Random question- How do you resist buying souvenirs from each location?
Thanks for the advice and we never buy souvenirs because we live in a van! Where would we put everything? If it doesn't have a use, it doesn't come with us. Plus we have a one in, one out rule so we'd never have more than one souvenir at a time!
We're the Russos Easy solution for the souvenir thing! I find having something tangible from different places just makes me happy but storing "stuff" becomes laborious and eventually takes up too much space, unless.....
We collect "flat" items!
*Fridge magnets, also stick on interior beams, or walls
*Keychains, you've always got your keys anyway and if you find something really unique and special, it's easy to tote around
*Postcards!! Postcards are the best! They often share high quality and unique vantage points of the city, perhaps unique events, etc. You can send them to friends or do what we have done, put them in a binder, maybe even along with some photos or some of those squashed pennies from tourist machines. A binder is flat and easy to store. Great way to keep inexpensive souvenirs without the clutter and it's not digitized, so it's always available without electricity, or if a computer crashes, if back ups burn out...!
I'm glad you talked about how you take care of Leo inside the van. My concern is that someone will break into my van trying to take my dog out sometime. We also use the fans and never never ever leave them in when it's warm. Thank you for covering that. I think it's important for the public to see that and also for people who used vans to see it.
It's good enough for me
Yeah yeah yeah yeah yeah....!! I really enjoy videos where we can both experience you in the Hymer and experience the surroundings. I love the explanations about the parking and restrictions. Beware of people putting stickers on your car in Oregon. I read somewhere a van dweller had a sticker that said "No van camping" was placed on their bumper and it wouldn't come off. Someone else said the person put it on the body of their van and window! Keep making videos like these! Enjoy your journey! Woof!
Love watching y’all
4 1/2 years my kids will be graduating HS
2 1/2 years I’m buying my van and parking it in my driveway
And starting to build it
I cannot wait
Watching videos like this keep me going
Great people with a positive outlook on life..
If they keep up the hard work, one day they'll have a house they can call their own :)
Wow! Was just saying to myself how I can't wait until your next video and bam! Here it is. Wonderful video. Great scenery and very educational. Looking forward to your next shared adventure. Thanks!
New video every Wednesday at 2pm PT
Thanks!
My favorite 80s movie is hard to choose. I grew up in the 80s. Now, maybe Empire Strikes Back, but I do love Goonies too.
You two look great. Van life really suits you, as does Kate's cooking. Also, it's very refreshing to see a woman drive. I'm very much a take-charge person and I can't imagine just sitting back and not driving while traveling. But, everyone is different.
Thanks so much for sharing!
You guys are adorable together! Your van is the best designed I have seen to date. I'm hoping to make van-living my lifestyle when I retire in 2019! Thanks for the inspiration!
I dream that someday I will have a van like that and be able to travel and see many places, but for now I will do it with both of you with your videos, thanks for sharing those beautiful places
Hey you can do it. It took us a few years of planning before we hit the road. If you want to read about it...check out our book: amzn.to/2xobB5s
I thought the "Limited Addition Cards" comment was really funny. I love it when the problem is the solution. Thank you so much for all of your content, and I really appreciate your spirit and kindness. Thanks.
It’s the hood to coast race. The race starts at mount hood and they run (in relays) to the Oregon coast.
Astoria was always a favorite place of mine but your experience in the Van is so much more versatile! Love it and love this video.
+Christine Russo thanks mom!
that was Bob Miller, a former longtime Portland radio personality piloting that streetcar... a brush with fame
I live in Hillsboro OR, about 15 miles west of Portland. The Hood to Coast is big thing. Teams of runners start at Mt Hood and run as a relay all the way to the coast. Vans follow the runners and pick up and drop off them as they are done on their leg.
they have a wonderful market on Sundays. Lots of crafters and good food and music.
And another thoroughly entertaining and captivating Russo VLOG. Thanks again for the awesome show! Y'all are the best.
Pretty spiffy life! Loved the glass floor so you can view the sea lions...
Wow. I haven't thought of The Goonies in forever! Blast from the past!
We loved Oregon also when we traveled there and the blackberries... Great video! Thanks for all your hard work of the videos means a lot to me as I am stuck at home with a hubby who is healing. Happy Trails!
I was so pleased to hear that you were in Astoria as I have been there twice and absolutely loved it, along with Cape Disappointment and Long Beach, Wa. I think you over looked a gem here but when plans change along with the weather a taste is better a deluge or a roasting in an oven. Across the bridge in Wa is one of the best campgrounds I have ever tented at but probably pretty hard to find a spot on a weekend.
I think the shades for the van windows are the right choice but security wise it is pretty much a toss up as it may look like your hiding something. (Earthen barrier holding back water)ed if you do or (Earthen barrier holding back water)ed don't
Thanks guys i really enjoyed spending some time with you and for the insight into your daily routine.
Jed and I were just there not too long ago. We love it there and went there twice with one 2 month period haha.
Movie museum was cool, but tiny.
We stayed at Safeway as well. Super cool area, next to the water, seals, and waterfront trail :)
Hope to meet you on the road someday. We are at crater lake currently and slowly heading south for the winter. Death Valley is next.
We don’t have a Sprinter, but we do live in a Chevy Express extended that we converted. We both have channels btw.
Also you can walk up to the start of the driveway (it’s like a community driveway that 3 houses use). And you can see the house better from like a block away.
What a fun trip!! Really enjoyed watching and experiencing van life through your videos!!
This is one of my favorite vlogs! I like to see how you really live- thanks!
I love Depoe Bay......the whales hang around that channel year round. Next time you visit Oregon, check out near Brookings, The mouth of the Rogue River......We rode in a flat bottom boat up the river.....first there was a seal eating a salmon, then ,river otters, deer eagles Ospreys and their nests, a bear and lots more....a sturgeon (very large fish). We all got off the boat 1/2 way up and had a very lovely lunch......The Pilot of our boat did 360's and we all got wet......blankets for everyone as we approached the dock. The most fun, single day of my life. 🐋🐳🛥🆓🆒🇺🇸
This was awesome.... fellow Goonies nerds!
Go up north a little bit. Hit Long Beach Washington. Nice little beach town.
+Lurker1979 thanks but if you saw at the end of the video, we're currently in Southern CA.
Hey glad you guys enjoyed Oregon which is where I live. The only issue I have is the darn rain but you were smart in thinking ahead and leaving early.
You talking about watching Goonies made me decide to watch it again tonight!
Love your videos, I'm learning about van living from you thinking it's my retirement plan.
your happiness is contagious.
keep on keepin' on!
edit - that whale was awesome!!
so cool... inspirational.
Dang, I wish I knew you were going to Astoria! Next time you need to do two more things; go to the Maritime Museum and the Astoria Column. The Maritime Museum is one of the most interesting I've ever been to. The mini film on the bar pilots is wonderful. The view from the Column is the best you can get without climbing a mountain.
The Maritime Museum is great! I stood and stared at the Coast Guard diorama for a long time. God bless our Coasties. Between the Astoria CG and the bar pilots, awesome people work the river and the bar!
When we asked two years ago we were told it was not allowed to park overnight at the Safeway. They must have changed there policy. Lucky for you!
Joe, I hope your neck feels better, and kimchi, rice and egg sounds delicious and healthy😋👌🏻💞you two are such good parents to Leo 🐶👍🏼
+L Miller thank you! Yes, my neck has been feeling better (much of that due to Kait's massages and taking care of me).
We're the Russos Glad your neck is better 😍You have a beautiful and intelligent wife, and you two are great team. Looking forward to your next video 🤗
I enjoyed this so much living the van life thru your video.
Hope you neck gets better soon. You guys make a great team.
I did the same thing at the same time , only I overnight-ed at Seaside (about 12 miles south along US 101). Stayed at the convention center parking lot adjacent to the Shilo Inn. Short walk to the boardwalk, and great picture-taking opportunities.
No issues, with an '04 Pleasureway Lexor TD.
😁🤣One of my all time favorites from the 80s (in addition to The Goonies) is Planes, Trains and Automobiles with John Candy and Steve Martin. It’s hilarious. ” Pillows those aren’t pillows” 🤣😂🤣 So many funny lines and parts of the story...I need to watch it again soon. 😁 But...there are several good ones on my list of favs from the 80s so it’s really difficult to choose just one.
I believe you said you had a gym membership for showers in one episode. If they have hot tubs you need to get in as often as possible, sink down, and run the jets on the pinched nerve area. Will take a couple of months to heal.
Hood to Coast and Portland to Coast weekend. Runners and walkers end up in Seaside. Done it but a lot of sitting in the van waiting for team mates. Astoria is one of my favorite towns on the Oregon Coast.
The Goonies is my fave movie, too !! I wish I had a van like yours.
I love Oregon and my husband and two Aunt's who are in there 90 went with us to Astoria. So beautiful your video was GREAT THANKS FOR SHARING. Love your dog.
Great video. Always enjoyable. Thanks for sharing.
Love your life, thanks for sharing a nice vacation for me. Peace.
Hey guys glad you're back traveling. You guys mentioned three of my favorite movies. Who can forget "hey you guys" from Goonies or "it's not a tumor" from kindergarten cop. Hilarious. Favorite 80's movie, too many to mention. We're kinda movie buffs. Astoria was lovely and peaceful. Another movie filmed there was Free Willy. Who knew. Texas does have many RV shows so if you're ever in the area and plan to make an appearance, drop us a note. We'd like to meet up with you guys. Till then, keep on shuffling, take care of each other and Leo.
Big Fans from Texas
Arnold and Josie (Hershey and Chico)
Great video!!! We pick up our camper van in a few weeks and although we will not be living out of it full time, we are anticipating some stressful encounters in the van shuffle. :) We also bought our Berkley......check out the LifeSaver jerry can. We got one of those too. It's awesome. Thanks again! Keep enjoying!
Cool Jerry can but wow that thing is pricey! With the Berkey we don't have much reason for the Lifesaver since we can get water from our 30 gallon tank and filter it through the Berkey.
They're on sale now for $250 as they company has been sending them to the hurricane victims in TX, FL and the PR. We used it this weekend camping and it was very cool. I think we will keep the Berkey in house. We didn't have something for the house. We aren't cool like ya'll and still live in a house! :)
Are you kidding the 80s had some great movies it was a great time to be a kid/teenager! There are several good ones on my list of favs from the 80s so it’s really difficult to choose just one....
- Star Wars Empire Strikes Back
- The Terminator
- Gremlins
- Ghostbusters
- The Goonies
- Planes, Trains And Automobiles
- The Breakfast Club
- ET
- Back To The Future
- Karate Kid
- Stand By Me
- Top Gun
- Young Guns
- Weekend At Bernie’s
- Who Framed Roger Rabbit
- The Outsiders
- Do the Right Thing
- Beverly Hills Cop
- Die Hard
- Platoon
- Full Metal Jacket
- Rocky IV
- First Blood
- The Untouchables
- The Verdict
- Revenge Of The Nerds
- 16 Candles
- Stand And Deliver
- Coming to America
- Raiders Of The Lost Ark
- Ferris Bueller's Day Of
* Note: movies are not listed in any particular order of preference
+LovingAtlanta thanks now I need to go through the whole list...again.
+ We're the Russos - Me too. As I was typing the list so fast, one movie reminded me of another & another and was bringing back such good memories. I’m having a movie marathon all fall & winter long. 😁
I've never visited the Pacific NW, but definitely want to when I retire and hit the road.
I am so happy you enjoyed visiting Oregon. I love my home state! You guys are awesome and I enjoy your videos.
Brilliant lifestyle! I'm in the thoughts of selling my house and hitting the road in a van home, travelling full time around my beloved country Australia with my little dog.. Being a chick at 42 I'm ready to hit the road, find work and explore! Thank you goonie lovers it's my all time fav childhood adventure movie too I love it!! xo
Glad you guys came to Astoria. It is were i live. There are a very few places to boondock on the north coast.
*8:15*
*I like how he had to clear it up that it was Leo she was talking about.*
😂
I'm so glad you got to see a whale! One of the best things about the coast in my opinion. It took me 14 years to get back in Oregon. I'm not leaving anytime soon. I've noticed how van friendly the state is and have been educating myself on this interesting housing option.
I've met Josh Brolin a few times aka Brand; Mikey's older brother. I definitely geeked out the first time I met him. He was very nice :)
Awesome video! Thanks... All your videos are inspiring... I am looking forward to my new (upcoming) adventure... Thank you for sharing your RV travel stories.
Omg! Love the Goonies! Fan my self , for sure watching it tonight! Love your videos always!
Found your channel today and I’m in love with the three of you 💖 Currently my favorite couple, ever, on TH-cam.
I’m inspired to try this van life...someday 🙏🏼
New subscriber here from Hawaii. I was so excited to know you guys were in Astoria. I was stationed in the USCG Airstation years ago and it's awesome to see new places.
Goonies never say die!!!!😆❤️❤️
We have discovered a chiropractor called “The Joint”. They are mostly in larger cities, but offer the option to get adjusted while on the road. Not too expensive either. Check them out!
Interesting, we've seen them - my question is, if you go to a new one, does your file carry over? The places I've gone all want a "first time" exam so rather than paying 30 or so, it's over 100.
We're the Russos opps, sorry - yes, your file carries over and is computerized. You can buy a “package of a few visits” but not necessary. Our last visit was $29, you simply walk in. You have a little key tag with your info like you get at a store.
Humm, I was still in the Army when the Goonies came out (85' I think), and in my mid 20's, so I never saw the movie! Glad your ordeal with the pinched nerve is over-those things suck big time! Astoria seems like a very chill, laid back town. I've been to Portland before on business, but never toured the State! Another great video you three! Btw, I saw Mama Russo's comment: Your dad made "Real Genius"? 👍👌✌🏻😎🍻
Yep, Real Genius was one of many he worked on...and one of which I got to be on set with him during my summer vacation as a kid. I miss him and those days :( You have to the Goonies if you never have...it should be required watching ;)
We're the Russos That is so cool Joe! Kinda explains where you get your love for filmmaking-its in the blood! I'll see if I can find Goonies online somewhere! Netflix & Hulu aren't streaming it right now!
Hrmm I may have to mail you my copy ;)
We're the Russos Lol, hope its a VHS Tape 😂😜🎁
My neice and her husband owned the Goonies house for years and recently moved because people bugged them so much. That is why a sign went up not to bug them. Sadly, sometimes people were pretty outrageously disrespectful.
Sunny day in Astoria! Nice!
My copy of your book was released to me this week. Looking forward to reading it.
Enjoy it!
I'm well into the book now and its a very good read. I was surprised to hear that you are a train fan like me and don't recall seeing any visits to railways on any of your videos or did I miss them?
For on the road chiropractic try The Joint. Locations all over, reasonable rates, all walk in sessions.....no appointments
Three of my favorite movies were filmed in Oregon. "Goonies," "Stand by Me'" and "Animal House."
Enjoyed your Oregon trip VERY much!
Love the Goonies!! Enjoyed the video 👍🍀 Blessings
Hi Joe and Kait, I just finished reading your book and I can;t wait for the next one and Kait's cook book too. Joe the book was well written and Kait I enjoyed your pictures. Where is Duke? Love you guys. If you are ever near Sacramento California I would love to meet you. I am inspired by your story Happy Safe Travels, Tammie
Hey Tammie - thank you so much and if you have a moment please consider leaving a review on Amazon. Duke passed away while we were on the road - that was tough for us: th-cam.com/video/gR-Da5BdskE/w-d-xo.html
Hahaha... You guys are such teases... Love kimchi... Haven't had it in 20 years but I can change that... Thank you for your adventures
Awesome video! Great info to think about if I decide to do van life! I would love to get a sprinter probably a 2004 or 2006. Seems like such an interesting lifestyle I would love to be on the road like you guys!
+philip Shaw I've heard good things about those older Sprinters. You can do it!
Astoria is a lovely place, be sure not to miss the small towns around it. Don’t forget the beach. The big white building is the John Jacob Astor Building, don’t forget the Astor Column
Cool video stuck at home 10 more days then I get to try a new adventure with my newly rebuilt back.
Rebuilt back??? Good luck and don't go to hard to fast...that's what always gets me.
We're the Russos I had 3 disks removed and rebuilt. Steel and plastic added and various other things fixed. My Dr keeps stressing the slow down point it is easy to say hard to do. I need to try Yoga or something to slow down.
Loved this video. The scenery with commentary was beautiful. Leo has a kings life. LoL.
What an excellent video of your journey! Thank you for sharing!
I cook my rice for 23 minutes, it tends to be crunchy if I cook it for less time. Recipe looks good. Love my Instant Pot.
Hi ! I'm a huge fan. Thanks for all the informative videos I rally enjoy them. Hugs to Leo !