Alternative dwellings are great when it's your choice to choose to live that way, but do you ever wonder why less of us are able to buy a traditional home? The answer simply is currency debasement. The answer more deeply is answered in my new podcast th-cam.com/video/VZtG5aHt20Y/w-d-xo.htmlsi=7o2YPFRt4QLy0A7i
Bless you! I'm 75 years old and just starting to do a no-build build with my new 2023 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof. Have learned much from you. Thank you!!!!!!!🎆
This is my first time ever commenting on anybody's video I want to make you aware that that is the most perfect van I have ever seen I would not change anything it's awesome God bless you and thank you
As a former USAF member myself, I much admire Sam and what he has accomplished. He got the van he wanted because he came to the conclusion he only needed to satisfy himself. I wish him a lot of luck on his new adventure into small homes. If anyone can make it work, he can. Keep flying high.
But ultimately it is not a permanently sustainable thing and it seems to be preventing him from building what he needs for old age, which is a home and a family. I do hope he ends up being successful building camper vans though and gets the long-term assets he needs, he seems a good guy.
@@raymisuto9872"ultimately it is not a permanently sustainable thing" and you think a home & family is? How old are you? I've had all that and It's overrated. Playing house with someone, accumulating a bunch of unnecessary shit, divorce comes, kids grow up & go their own way, or people pass away and then what? You find yourself in the same place you were before all that. Go watch the video of Gene the 82 year old nomad. Wished he had done it decades before. It made him realize he was nothing but a slave to a mortgage most of his life. Screw all that
@@Beach_Guy Your whole argument falls apart when you've removed the anti-social sociopathic tendency from it.. You get married, you don't play house. There is no divorce, marriage is a lifelong contract and people who break it should be punished to the extreme, that's why the policy of fault divorce exist, so that if somebody violates the contract they are completely destroyed and spend the rest of their lives giving their money to the person they screwed over. Kids don't grow up and go their own way, they become their own people but they remain loyal to the family, they're the ones responsible for taking care of their parents just as you were responsible for taking care of yours when they retired, to step outside of this social generational contract is once again a sociopathic tendency and the people who break from it should really be put down, they're not only a burden to the rest of civilization but also a failure to provide for the people they're responsible for. And unfortunate truth of reality, as we're not psychic energy who can exist outside of any actions for survival we're born with responsibilities that we cannot fail to uphold. Death is the one thing you got right, sometimes it happens prematurely by accident or disease and there's just nothing for it, that's why in the end we actually build a social system so that the 0. 00001% whose family died through accident and disease and are now dependent on the society at large to keep them up can be taken care of. Trust me, you could ask all 7 billion people on Earth if they would donate .01 to one of these individuals and you'll get nothing but yes and that 70 million dollars will allow the person to live comfortably. And finally, the hell do you mean a slave to the mortgage, your previous generations of your family should have taken care of securing familyland and your family should have maintained it since then, unless they've just all been fuck ups.. Don't feel bad, my US family has all been fuck ups and I'm the one having to start the generational train going, but just because it wasn't handed to you on a silver platter doesn't mean you get to shrink the responsibility and be a fuck up just like your ancestors. If you end up being a slave working your whole life it's so that you're descendants won't be, man up.
@@raymisuto9872 You have to think it over again. Once, you lost your job and can't pay your mortgage or paying the property tax or sickness got you then you will loose your house anyway. The new generations they see reality through the covid and figure out life is too short. They are not waste their money away. Humans need only food, health, a comfort and secure living environment with necessity clothing. Many, you would be surprised to know that they are also investing and have more cash in the bank than someone who keeps paying rent for someone else pockets.
You've shown me the biggest puzzle piece to solve my issue with the sleeping situation. I always felt the bed took up way too much space and limited where you got to put storage or yourself. This is awesome!
Wow, I’ve watched a ton of van life vlogs over the years, and this might just be my fav build I’ve seen! Super practical and it looks like it was extremely well built. Very impressive👏🏻
Me too! After years of watching van tours, doing research and taking notes, I finally found the floor plan and storage ideas I've been looking for, and hope to copy!
The intentionality of your life is so inspiring! You're such a brilliant young man with an incredible amount of wisdom BRAVO! Im 65 and you may have given me much needed inspiration. Thank you!
Wow! This has to be the most practical van design I’ve seen. There are so many van builds which are beautiful, expensive, and not as useful as his van. They often show them without all their stuff inside. I love it that he lets us see how he is actually living in the van. It feels joyful.
It makes sense that he's building vans, his skill set and head is in the right place. :) Now he's setting out to do tiny homes - this man is worth following
A van with a fireplace! Now I’ve seen everything. That kitchen unit is excellent. The whole van looks very cosy and efficient. I never cease to be amazed at the creativity - not to mention the craftsmanship - of van dwellers.
I continue to be amazed how talent, imagination, and effort go together in this vanlife. He should contract with company to build kits for this particular van. Amazing !
I like this dude... His attitude and vibe is super chill and he seems fun to hangout with... He said his stove was dirty and then said don't worry about that's what he do Lol... Thought that was hilarious..... His van is very creative.... Keep Rocking out dude🤘👌👌🔥🔥
Wow. I am impressed with how your quirky, unorthodox but highly disciplined mind works, such joy to listen to you. You give me hope for humans who can be such jerks. Thank you so much for sharing your awesome home. Especially like that heated floor, the sunroof, and the timer on the propane. Living the minimalist life looks good on you. Way to go. Sam is dabomb and a #moderndayhippie. ❤️ Best wishes on tiny homes endeavor. They are so cool.
" A modern day hippie "....I don't think so. They are having their goals and pioneer with a minimalist mind to be happy. You will be surprise that many of them are professionals working on the road and having vacations while making a living. They don't have to wait to save up money for a vacation. It is new way of thinking and realizing that life is too short. Many even save up and having more money in the bank beyond your imaginations.
OMG! Wow!Wow!Wow! I've watched many van tours and by far this camper van build and this young gentleman are my favorite! So inspiring. So clever. Thank you for sharing your young adult life story so far. You are wise beyond your years. You are a great van builder and your tiny house adventure should be amazing! I wish you the very best and am incredibly grateful for your military service. May your journeys in life bring you joy and peace.
Not sure your Parent situation but as a Mom and Grandma, I’m so proud of You! And I’m so happy for you! I love every single thing about your Van! Thank You for sharing the cost too! I’d trust You and your build more than anyone I’ve seen yet. You’ve lived it long enough to truly know! I was a Navy Wife for 26 yrs 4 months. I relate to so much of what you said! My husband left me at 29 yrs when my cancer returned so I’m alone. Out of financially being priced out of my Apt, I’m threatened with homelessness. Us older people are the fastest population of homeless out there. Thank you for what you’re doing! You’re amazing!
Terrific build; storage bins, foldable beds and really dig the propane fireplace and range and oven. A great role model for being flexible and adventerous. Thanks for your service. Best for the future.
What a brilliant van design, and an even more amazing owner. So energised and inspiring - great to know that people like Sam still exist 👍 I wish him every success for the future, and will definitely be ‘flattering him’ by imitating some of his great design ideas...😂 Greetings from the 🇬🇧
Although I'm Canadian, I must say "Thank-you for your service." I loved what you said about your motivation for living your life. Beautiful! (I have also used milk crates for storage, and they are very spacious. I love the magnet thing with them :) ) I know you will keep treasuring every day that you are alive. Your future endeavours are what this planet and our societies need. Don't "Just Do it." Get it Done! Thank-you for sharing yourself with us.
I've seen this van tour before, but I had to watch it again! A brilliant design and a brilliant young man. I'd think he was quite a bit older if I heard Sam's story without seeing him. He's done so much and seems to be an old soul in a young giant athletic rock climbing guy body! Wishing Sam happy, safe travels and all the best in his new (ad)venture!! Thank you for your service, Sam. I'm sorry you had to see so much horror and glad you got out okay.
Well said! Seeing how he’s living the life he is, he’s easily the most Authentic & genuine! We’ve all seen some vans that yeah, are pretty but not exactly realistic or practical! Every bit of this van is! How wonderful he’s now helping others reach their dreams too
179,264 views • 121K subscribers As a former USN member myself, I much admire Sam and what he has accomplished. I`m really thankful for His true story as a Veteran. He is and will inspire many ,but that does mean that everybody can rebound .IF you know this Awesome Guy take care of Him ,What a national treasure. I hope I se more of His Video`s 5*s
I think the only thing I would change about this setup is the storage solution. Milk crates are sturdy, cheap, handy. But can be on the heavy side compared with the soft cubes from departments stores or IKEA. I think I would opt to cut weight a little depending on the weight of all my other stuff. Really super build!!
Fellow Baltimorian. This is one of the best van builds I've seen so far, and I've watched a ton of these videos. Well done! Good vibes. Thank you for your service!
Love the build. Love his attitude toward living in general. No mention about entertaining one's self. Movie player, internet access etc.. Good luck in future ventures.
Over the past few months I have been watching van life and have been inspired by the awesome living it entails. Everytime I come across a TH-cam video I say oh this is my favorite by far. I have literally watched over thousands of videos . Nevertheless, the uniqueness, simplicity of certain aspects and creativity of this van overall ranks in my top two. Unbelievable young. Keep doing what you do and live your life to the fullest. Outstanding
Oh man, now that's how to do a tour. Here I was ready to skip, skip, skip and you just opened your drawers, and said drawer, drawer, drawer without telling us every single item you own! Yesss! Thank you! Love this build too. That cabinet was very well designed. I really like the versatility of it. Nice job!
What a wonderful young man! He has the right perspective on life, living it to it's fullest! God bless you, Sam! Love the murphy bed separated on both sides! I've never seen that in a van build before!
My husband and I are pushing 70 and lOVE your van, ideas and philosophy. We are planning to do our second van build out and will use many of your ideas. Thanks!
Holy smokes! I watch so many van life videos and this has to be the most well thought out build. Kudos to this guy. He made a van that compliments him and his way of life.
The “party” on the PCT = Belden. It’s wild. When I hiked the PCT in 2011, I kept hearing what sounded like a rave & drumbeats. It would ebb & flow…then I got to the top of a ridge & looked down into the valley where Belden is located. It was an experience 😂
I’ve watched at least 50 van life videos and this is by far my favorite.Down to earth, nuts and bolts stuff.Nothing flashy but still a heartfelt presentation. Awesome build.Really like the bed folding up and how you maxed out the storage. Top marks!Much respect and best wishes!
This is my favorite van I've seen and the first one that felt like something I could live in thanks to the awesome shelves he has beneath the folding bed. The fact that he made this on the road makes it that much more awesome. It wasn't all or nothing. Most van builds focus on bulky cabinetry and really don't have much room for anything beyond essentials... While I get a big part of living in a van is that you aren't weighed down by material things... I still prefer to have a couple of bookshelves of physical books and a box or two of miniatures for miniature based board / tabletop games. I would definitely steal much of this guy's layout. I would prefer a slightly longer van for a wet-bath in the back (then again lots of people seem to prefer showering outside) and replace the couch with a desk for painting and working on the computer. I'm tempted to take him up on his offer and try to chat on Instagram.
This has to be the best ‘van life’ video I’ve seen to date, well done! The reasons I admire you is as follows: Transparency Genuine honesty Detailed information Chronological history explained Fast talking You show AND tell. Creative solutions. Brilliant video ….
No kidding - one of the best van builds I have ever seen. It is tailored for his needs, but it is so smart and I also love the simplicity. Starting from June I'll be living full time in my van. I have so far done half of my conversion and I am also going for a minimalistic approach. Buddy, if you're reading that - good luck to you and your future projects, I think you have a brilliant idea for your company and I wish you all the best, I am sure you will rock it!
👍🏽🎄🎥 Not only did I subscribe after this video , I’ve watched it again with my notebook handy. 2’ hatch, Dickinson propane heater, bed design- what is that shower setup if anyone knows - that’s another clever detail . So many good ideas in this van. I’ve always had work vans, converting one now though 🎉to live and work out of (carpentry)
Holy DARN cow!!! What an inspiring person! Huge respect to Sam and to this channel for sharing Sam's story. I have watched the video twice ... made notes for myself and will watch more times. First - LOVE the kitchen, particularly the oven which is part of why I watched the entire video. As a bread (sourdough) baker, I do want an oven. For reference, I am fast approaching 67 times around the sun and 16 of those as an owner of a 33 foot motorhome. Now thinking of downsizing, hence watching van life videos. Thanks so much to all involved in this video - so helpful and thought provoking.
I’m 59 (60 in a few weeks) and about to be priced out of my Apt. I wish I had an RV to live in! Wish we lived in the same place, I’d love to rent your RV while you drive off in a new Van built by this incredible young man!
@@jenniferd264 I am very sorry about your apartment situation. Have you found the channel "CheapRVLiving" (Bob Wells)? There is a lot of information about various types of RV/rv life and stories from people in your situation that have found ways to have an abundant life. Now ... a word of caution. You made a LOT of assumptions about my situation and plans 🙂. Yes, I own my home (well, me and the bank). The motorhome is paid for but I cannot just "buy a new custom built van". I will sell the motorhome and buy a used something ... van or small Class C and do some build/nobuild/renovation. I write this because if you are looking at RV youTubers or Instagram or ANY social media, it is easy to assume lots of things are better/easier than they are. Best, best wishes in finding a good solution to your housing.
👍🌴📸 I enjoy the functionality of this short wheeled but tall van-- especially the murphy bed. Sam's time living in this van shows through his design. Simple, doable, functional and approachable. This is the design I will be following when I get my van. Thanks for sharing your home and yourself Sam! Forrest, I appreciate how you capture the reality, challenges and advantages, of van life that's often overlooked by many.
Buddy, you are the definition of LIVING LIFE! Look at you THRIVE! So inspiring! I'm 57 and working towards my goal of passion self-employment, and living life on the road. (leaving a medical career) It's a journey to get there, but sure does make my current life exciting knowing that in another 2 years, I'll own my own Transit Van and start building my dream build. But in the meantime, I adventure as much as possible in my current SUV - to practice, lol. Cheers!
Super impressed with the van build but more impressed with your determination and what you achieved in life. We purchased a used low mileage class B pleasure way RV about 5 years ago for only 23K. I don't have the same skills you have to build from scratch but found it easier to take an older RV, upgrade and renew the existing design. Sleeps two very comfortable and even with the price of gas these days still cheaper to take this on vacation than rent hotels and restaurants. Thanks for your service too!
love this build, your vibe and story. please do make sure you have safety alarms for co2, smoke, propane etc. so you have have many awesome trips to come.
Being Air Force you know what a Checklist is, and it is mandatory before and after every takeoff and landing. This van is so close to the idea I have drawn up for my van. ty Awesome! 👍🏼
First off, thank you for your service! That had to be tough. Secondly, kudos on your van build. It's super smart and efficient. Excited to see what you do with this new business!
You have a great story! Hearing you was inspirational. Your build was really good & well thought out. Good luck in your endeavors moving forward. I am sure you will be successful at whatever you choose. And last but not least, Thank you for your service to our country. We appreciate you.
This is probably the best van setup I've seen, that would work for us (we need a van that can carry quite a lot of sales stock as well as us!) Great video - thanks for posting it.
He has ingeniously made excellent use of the limited space he has. How he set up his fridge and kitchen storage was so well designed. Also where he put his toilet and all the cubbyholes for extra storage is incredibly practical and well thought out.
I love the bed design! I’m working toward converting my minivan. Will be a part-time/camper for a bit. Thank you for sharing your design and thoughts. 😊✌🏼😎👍🏼
By far the best van build I think I've ever seen and I'm an army vet. I look back & my best years were living out of a duffle bag. Freedom to travel baby!!!
So so inspired by you Sam! Thank you for sharing all of the details and the journey you’ve been on in setting yourself up. I’m 63, solo, and on the path having just bought a van. Feeling daunted, but uplifted by this video. 🙏🏼👍🏼😉
I love your whole outlook on life. I have thought that it would be great to live in a van and go whenever and wherever I wanted. But, life got in the way, and 50 years later, I really envy you, more than you know!!! Enjoy and continue to gently use our Earth . William
U HAD ME AT ROOF DECK🤣🤣🤣! Thank u for ur service. Love ur van & awesomely positive attitude! Ur net zero tiny house business will be GREAT! Best of luck to u! Enjoy ur travels! Thanks for the tour👍🏻
Damn...3 fireplaces? I could've used just one last winter in Connecticut. Froze my butt off in my Chevy Astro with my Campy Gear heater/stove. It worked well until temps got below 10 degrees which happened continuously for weeks and weeks. I was going to go with the low roof Transit but couldn't find one affordable enough. They have almost the exact same interior dimensions as the Astro so my design would've worked in either one. Your build is in the top 25 I've seen and I've seen hundreds.
GREAT JOB! One of the best natural use designs! Thank you for sharing, a bit of your life and story! You have inspired me to do with less! I am searching for a van and will copy some of your design and ideas!
This video had my attention from beginning to end. Sam's life and van are so inspirational. It's very well designed. I've seen van builds that are much more glamourous but not as practical.
Alternative dwellings are great when it's your choice to choose to live that way, but do you ever wonder why less of us are able to buy a traditional home?
The answer simply is currency debasement. The answer more deeply is answered in my new podcast
th-cam.com/video/VZtG5aHt20Y/w-d-xo.htmlsi=7o2YPFRt4QLy0A7i
I thought "Putin" was the reason, that's what the media told me.😂The Real reason is fiat currency and quantitative easing👍 Biggest scam of all time😢
Forget the Van, its his attitude and energy towards life that's make this inspiring
So agree! Like a breath of fresh air!
💯
His girlfriend is one lucky lady!
Bless you! I'm 75 years old and just starting to do a no-build build with my new 2023 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof. Have learned much from you. Thank you!!!!!!!🎆
lets goooo
Good luck on your build.
@@CarbonCasca You mean his no-build build.
This is my first time ever commenting on anybody's video I want to make you aware that that is the most perfect van I have ever seen I would not change anything it's awesome God bless you and thank you
Every time I think I see an "ultimate" van build, another even better build comes along. And this is one of them. Well done mate!
As a former USAF member myself, I much admire Sam and what he has accomplished. He got the van he wanted because he came to the conclusion he only needed to satisfy himself. I wish him a lot of luck on his new adventure into small homes. If anyone can make it work, he can. Keep flying high.
But ultimately it is not a permanently sustainable thing and it seems to be preventing him from building what he needs for old age, which is a home and a family.
I do hope he ends up being successful building camper vans though and gets the long-term assets he needs, he seems a good guy.
@@raymisuto9872"ultimately it is not a permanently sustainable thing" and you think a home & family is? How old are you? I've had all that and It's overrated. Playing house with someone, accumulating a bunch of unnecessary shit, divorce comes, kids grow up & go their own way, or people pass away and then what? You find yourself in the same place you were before all that. Go watch the video of Gene the 82 year old nomad. Wished he had done it decades before. It made him realize he was nothing but a slave to a mortgage most of his life. Screw all that
@@Beach_Guy Your whole argument falls apart when you've removed the anti-social sociopathic tendency from it..
You get married, you don't play house.
There is no divorce, marriage is a lifelong contract and people who break it should be punished to the extreme, that's why the policy of fault divorce exist, so that if somebody violates the contract they are completely destroyed and spend the rest of their lives giving their money to the person they screwed over.
Kids don't grow up and go their own way, they become their own people but they remain loyal to the family, they're the ones responsible for taking care of their parents just as you were responsible for taking care of yours when they retired, to step outside of this social generational contract is once again a sociopathic tendency and the people who break from it should really be put down, they're not only a burden to the rest of civilization but also a failure to provide for the people they're responsible for.
And unfortunate truth of reality, as we're not psychic energy who can exist outside of any actions for survival we're born with responsibilities that we cannot fail to uphold.
Death is the one thing you got right, sometimes it happens prematurely by accident or disease and there's just nothing for it, that's why in the end we actually build a social system so that the 0. 00001% whose family died through accident and disease and are now dependent on the society at large to keep them up can be taken care of.
Trust me, you could ask all 7 billion people on Earth if they would donate .01 to one of these individuals and you'll get nothing but yes and that 70 million dollars will allow the person to live comfortably.
And finally, the hell do you mean a slave to the mortgage, your previous generations of your family should have taken care of securing familyland and your family should have maintained it since then, unless they've just all been fuck ups..
Don't feel bad, my US family has all been fuck ups and I'm the one having to start the generational train going, but just because it wasn't handed to you on a silver platter doesn't mean you get to shrink the responsibility and be a fuck up just like your ancestors.
If you end up being a slave working your whole life it's so that you're descendants won't be, man up.
@@Beach_Guy that's so true
@@raymisuto9872 You have to think it over again. Once, you lost your job and can't pay your mortgage or paying the property tax or sickness got you then you will loose your house anyway. The new generations they see reality through the covid and figure out life is too short. They are not waste their money away. Humans need only food, health, a comfort and secure living environment with necessity clothing. Many, you would be surprised to know that they are also investing and have more cash in the bank than someone who keeps paying rent for someone else pockets.
You've shown me the biggest puzzle piece to solve my issue with the sleeping situation. I always felt the bed took up way too much space and limited where you got to put storage or yourself. This is awesome!
Wow, I’ve watched a ton of van life vlogs over the years, and this might just be my fav build I’ve seen! Super practical and it looks like it was extremely well built. Very impressive👏🏻
Me too! After years of watching van tours, doing research and taking notes, I finally found the floor plan and storage ideas I've been looking for, and hope to copy!
But where does he put outdoor things like mountain bikes, surfboards, skis, etc.
@@blogo1111 I keep my bicycle/ adventure gear at a storage unit.
There are a lot of good ideas in this van! Very interesting. Thank you for sharing your home!
I agree. This is tits
The intentionality of your life is so inspiring! You're such a brilliant young man with an incredible amount of wisdom
BRAVO! Im 65 and you may have given me much needed inspiration. Thank you!
I was just thinking the same thing!😊
Me too
This is nuts, this guy is clearly very experienced, and so goddamn chill. Bless this dude, and those soft close drawers 😩 so satisfying
prexactly! Love this stargazer!
I like how he goes from fancy to utilitarian: soft closed drawers to magnetized milk crates.
Wow! This has to be the most practical van design I’ve seen. There are so many van builds which are beautiful, expensive, and not as useful as his van. They often show them without all their stuff inside. I love it that he lets us see how he is actually living in the van. It feels joyful.
It makes sense that he's building vans, his skill set and head is in the right place. :)
Now he's setting out to do tiny homes - this man is worth following
A van with a fireplace! Now I’ve seen everything. That kitchen unit is excellent. The whole van looks very cosy and efficient. I never cease to be amazed at the creativity - not to mention the craftsmanship - of van dwellers.
He can do absolutely anything he sets his mind too. Amazing young man. Blessings to him and his girlfriend in all their future adventures.
I continue to be amazed how talent, imagination, and effort go together in this vanlife. He should contract with company to build kits for this particular van. Amazing !
I like this dude... His attitude and vibe is super chill and he seems fun to hangout with... He said his stove was dirty and then said don't worry about that's what he do Lol... Thought that was hilarious..... His van is very creative.... Keep Rocking out dude🤘👌👌🔥🔥
Sha!
Yes! He’s hilarious! I cracked up when he said his stove was “dirty but don’t worry about it!”🤣🤣🤣
Wow. I am impressed with how your quirky, unorthodox but highly disciplined mind works, such joy to listen to you. You give me hope for humans who can be such jerks. Thank you so much for sharing your awesome home. Especially like that heated floor, the sunroof, and the timer on the propane. Living the minimalist life looks good on you. Way to go. Sam is dabomb and a #moderndayhippie. ❤️
Best wishes on tiny homes endeavor. They are so cool.
Dude! Ur van is totally on point… awesome job I’ll def be copying some of ur great ideas 🤙🏽😎
" A modern day hippie "....I don't think so. They are having their goals and pioneer with a minimalist mind to be happy. You will be surprise that many of them are professionals working on the road and having vacations while making a living. They don't have to wait to save up money for a vacation. It is new way of thinking and realizing that life is too short. Many even save up and having more money in the bank beyond your imaginations.
Great comment about a great build I'll be using as my campervan template.
Oh, and the toe sticking out of the sock. Cute💜💜
OMG! Wow!Wow!Wow! I've watched many van tours and by far this camper van build and this young gentleman are my favorite! So inspiring. So clever. Thank you for sharing your young adult life story so far. You are wise beyond your years. You are a great van builder and your tiny house adventure should be amazing! I wish you the very best and am incredibly grateful for your military service. May your journeys in life bring you joy and peace.
Not sure your Parent situation but as a Mom and Grandma, I’m so proud of You! And I’m so happy for you!
I love every single thing about your Van! Thank You for sharing the cost too! I’d trust You and your build more than anyone I’ve seen yet. You’ve lived it long enough to truly know! I was a Navy Wife for 26 yrs 4 months. I relate to so much of what you said! My husband left me at 29 yrs when my cancer returned so I’m alone. Out of financially being priced out of my Apt, I’m threatened with homelessness. Us older people are the fastest population of homeless out there. Thank you for what you’re doing! You’re amazing!
Terrific build; storage bins, foldable beds and really dig the propane fireplace and range and oven. A great role model for being flexible and adventerous. Thanks for your service. Best for the future.
What a brilliant van design, and an even more amazing owner.
So energised and inspiring - great to know that people like Sam still exist 👍
I wish him every success for the future, and will definitely be ‘flattering him’ by imitating some of his great design ideas...😂
Greetings from the 🇬🇧
This is one of the most well thought out builds I have ever seen.
Wow, we have many things in common: I also have dark blue Transit camper, I like vanlife, I love aviation and I love Pink Floyd!
What a great person. The world needs 2 billion of you... at least.
Although I'm Canadian, I must say "Thank-you for your service." I loved what you said about your motivation for living your life. Beautiful! (I have also used milk crates for storage, and they are very spacious. I love the magnet thing with them :) ) I know you will keep treasuring every day that you are alive. Your future endeavours are what this planet and our societies need. Don't "Just Do it." Get it Done! Thank-you for sharing yourself with us.
“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery.” Great build! Love the hatch and the heated floor!
I've seen this van tour before, but I had to watch it again! A brilliant design and a brilliant young man. I'd think he was quite a bit older if I heard Sam's story without seeing him. He's done so much and seems to be an old soul in a young giant athletic rock climbing guy body! Wishing Sam happy, safe travels and all the best in his new (ad)venture!! Thank you for your service, Sam. I'm sorry you had to see so much horror and glad you got out okay.
Ditto 💝🩵
Ive watched this 10 times at least lol. Im still trying to figure out how he did a solar panel over the max air fan. I got a transit recently!
Well said! Seeing how he’s living the life he is, he’s easily the most Authentic & genuine! We’ve all seen some vans that yeah, are pretty but not exactly realistic or practical! Every bit of this van is! How wonderful he’s now helping others reach their dreams too
179,264 views • 121K subscribers As a former USN member myself, I much admire Sam and what he has accomplished. I`m really thankful for His true story as a Veteran. He is and will inspire many ,but that does mean that everybody can rebound .IF you know this Awesome Guy take care of Him ,What a national treasure. I hope I se more of His Video`s 5*s
I think the only thing I would change about this setup is the storage solution. Milk crates are sturdy, cheap, handy. But can be on the heavy side compared with the soft cubes from departments stores or IKEA. I think I would opt to cut weight a little depending on the weight of all my other stuff. Really super build!!
Bro stay humble and stay blessed!!!! Seen loads of van life videos but yours is definitely one of the best!!!!
Fellow Baltimorian. This is one of the best van builds I've seen so far, and I've watched a ton of these videos. Well done! Good vibes. Thank you for your service!
Thanks bro!
Another Baltimore boy here...great job and attitude
Not Feng shui Sam, just your natural ability to love the things that matter mate. Keep on rollin' 👍
Love the build. Love his attitude toward living in general.
No mention about entertaining one's self. Movie player, internet access etc..
Good luck in future ventures.
Over the past few months I have been watching van life and have been inspired by the awesome living it entails. Everytime I come across a TH-cam video I say oh this is my favorite by far. I have literally watched over thousands of videos . Nevertheless, the uniqueness, simplicity of certain aspects and creativity of this van overall ranks in my top two. Unbelievable young. Keep doing what you do and live your life to the fullest. Outstanding
What a nice Van build!! Love the all the storage and the way the beds are set up. Nice job!!
Oh man, now that's how to do a tour. Here I was ready to skip, skip, skip and you just opened your drawers, and said drawer, drawer, drawer without telling us every single item you own! Yesss! Thank you! Love this build too. That cabinet was very well designed. I really like the versatility of it. Nice job!
What a wonderful young man! He has the right perspective on life, living it to it's fullest! God bless you, Sam! Love the murphy bed separated on both sides! I've never seen that in a van build before!
He seems like a very kind and genuine person. I can imagine the life lessons he’ll experience while on his journeys.
what a clever way to design the bed. Lots of storage and walking area without much difficulty in taking up the bed. Great job
My husband and I are pushing 70 and lOVE your van, ideas and philosophy. We are planning to do our second van build out and will use many of your ideas. Thanks!
Love how he has adjusted his van to fit his specific needs. Excellent interview.
Holy smokes! I watch so many van life videos and this has to be the most well thought out build. Kudos to this guy. He made a van that compliments him and his way of life.
Best Layout I have
seen. Your a genius young man.
The “party” on the PCT = Belden. It’s wild. When I hiked the PCT in 2011, I kept hearing what sounded like a rave & drumbeats. It would ebb & flow…then I got to the top of a ridge & looked down into the valley where Belden is located. It was an experience 😂
Imitation is the best form of flattery... I can't think of a stronger partner test :) Congrats on a unique build and thanks for sharing.
I like your sense of humor. No leaks from the boat hatch. Great beds and storage.
I’ve watched at least 50 van life videos and this is by far my favorite.Down to earth, nuts and bolts stuff.Nothing flashy but still a heartfelt presentation.
Awesome build.Really like the bed folding up and how you maxed out the storage.
Top marks!Much respect and best wishes!
I've watched a couple hundred over the last 7 years. This one is close to the BOTTOM. If he designed this for me, I'd fire him.
This is my favorite van I've seen and the first one that felt like something I could live in thanks to the awesome shelves he has beneath the folding bed. The fact that he made this on the road makes it that much more awesome. It wasn't all or nothing.
Most van builds focus on bulky cabinetry and really don't have much room for anything beyond essentials... While I get a big part of living in a van is that you aren't weighed down by material things... I still prefer to have a couple of bookshelves of physical books and a box or two of miniatures for miniature based board / tabletop games.
I would definitely steal much of this guy's layout. I would prefer a slightly longer van for a wet-bath in the back (then again lots of people seem to prefer showering outside) and replace the couch with a desk for painting and working on the computer. I'm tempted to take him up on his offer and try to chat on Instagram.
I love this van!
I will definitely be using some of your creative ideas in my van build!
This has to be the best ‘van life’ video I’ve seen to date, well done! The reasons I admire you is as follows:
Transparency
Genuine honesty
Detailed information
Chronological history explained
Fast talking
You show AND tell.
Creative solutions.
Brilliant video ….
No kidding - one of the best van builds I have ever seen. It is tailored for his needs, but it is so smart and I also love the simplicity.
Starting from June I'll be living full time in my van. I have so far done half of my conversion and I am also going for a minimalistic approach.
Buddy, if you're reading that - good luck to you and your future projects, I think you have a brilliant idea for your company and I wish you all the best, I am sure you will rock it!
Thanks!!
👍🏽🎄🎥
Not only did I subscribe after this video , I’ve watched it again with my notebook handy. 2’ hatch, Dickinson propane heater, bed design- what is that shower setup if anyone knows - that’s another clever detail . So many good ideas in this van. I’ve always had work vans, converting one now though 🎉to live and work out of (carpentry)
Holy DARN cow!!! What an inspiring person! Huge respect to Sam and to this channel for sharing Sam's story. I have watched the video twice ... made notes for myself and will watch more times.
First - LOVE the kitchen, particularly the oven which is part of why I watched the entire video. As a bread (sourdough) baker, I do want an oven.
For reference, I am fast approaching 67 times around the sun and 16 of those as an owner of a 33 foot motorhome. Now thinking of downsizing, hence watching van life videos.
Thanks so much to all involved in this video - so helpful and thought provoking.
I’m 59 (60 in a few weeks) and about to be priced out of my Apt. I wish I had an RV to live in! Wish we lived in the same place, I’d love to rent your RV while you drive off in a new Van built by this incredible young man!
@@jenniferd264 I am very sorry about your apartment situation. Have you found the channel "CheapRVLiving" (Bob Wells)? There is a lot of information about various types of RV/rv life and stories from people in your situation that have found ways to have an abundant life. Now ... a word of caution. You made a LOT of assumptions about my situation and plans 🙂. Yes, I own my home (well, me and the bank). The motorhome is paid for but I cannot just "buy a new custom built van". I will sell the motorhome and buy a used something ... van or small Class C and do some build/nobuild/renovation. I write this because if you are looking at RV youTubers or Instagram or ANY social media, it is easy to assume lots of things are better/easier than they are. Best, best wishes in finding a good solution to your housing.
Imitation is the best form of flattery. Love your van..keep going!!
👍🌴📸
I enjoy the functionality of this short wheeled but tall van-- especially the murphy bed. Sam's time living in this van shows through his design. Simple, doable, functional and approachable. This is the design I will be following when I get my van. Thanks for sharing your home and yourself Sam! Forrest, I appreciate how you capture the reality, challenges and advantages, of van life that's often overlooked by many.
Actually, he has the 148" wheelbase, long body (not extended). The short WB is 130. But you can't get the high roof in the 130.
Buddy, you are the definition of LIVING LIFE! Look at you THRIVE! So inspiring! I'm 57 and working towards my goal of passion self-employment, and living life on the road. (leaving a medical career) It's a journey to get there, but sure does make my current life exciting knowing that in another 2 years, I'll own my own Transit Van and start building my dream build. But in the meantime, I adventure as much as possible in my current SUV - to practice, lol. Cheers!
Love your van. Lots of logic in the build. Your 17 storage cabinets are amazing. Smart using magnets to hold them in place.
Sir, you have the most practical van build. Your bed setup is like what's the word oh yeah, "genius".
My mind is blown! 🤯 I have watched a ton of van build videos but this one is absolutely amazing! Good for you!
Super impressed with the van build but more impressed with your determination and what you achieved in life. We purchased a used low mileage class B pleasure way RV about 5 years ago for only 23K. I don't have the same skills you have to build from scratch but found it easier to take an older RV, upgrade and renew the existing design. Sleeps two very comfortable and even with the price of gas these days still cheaper to take this on vacation than rent hotels and restaurants. Thanks for your service too!
love this build, your vibe and story. please do make sure you have safety alarms for co2, smoke, propane etc. so you have have many awesome trips to come.
Brilliant van build! Nice use of space. The drawers & bed storage are great!
Being Air Force you know what a Checklist is, and it is mandatory before and after every takeoff and landing.
This van is so close to the idea I have drawn up for my van.
ty
Awesome!
👍🏼
First off, thank you for your service! That had to be tough. Secondly, kudos on your van build. It's super smart and efficient. Excited to see what you do with this new business!
Man, this guy is inspirational! Wish him a life well lived!
Wow Sam, your van is so creatively designed. Your a terrific person. You thought of it all. Thank you for sharing.
I am by NO means an expert but this build is one of the best I've ever seen on TH-cam!
You have a great story! Hearing you was inspirational. Your build was really good & well thought out.
Good luck in your endeavors moving forward. I am sure you will be successful at whatever you choose.
And last but not least, Thank you for your service to our country. We appreciate you.
This video creates a nice little vibe
Love the unique utilitarian but quality finish design. Great philosophy and POV on life 🤙🏽
Great interview of this very wise man. Thank you for sharing
This is probably the best van setup I've seen, that would work for us (we need a van that can carry quite a lot of sales stock as well as us!) Great video - thanks for posting it.
He has ingeniously made excellent use of the limited space he has. How he set up his fridge and kitchen storage was so well designed. Also where he put his toilet and all the cubbyholes for extra storage is incredibly practical and well thought out.
Best practical layout. Love the open space after bed is up
Super cool guy! Excellent ideas on storage! Love the skylight!! Can’t wait to see where this leads him. Great job!
Dudes got it sorted. Great van .
I love the bed design! I’m working toward converting my minivan. Will be a part-time/camper for a bit. Thank you for sharing your design and thoughts. 😊✌🏼😎👍🏼
By far the best van build I think I've ever seen and I'm an army vet. I look back & my best years were living out of a duffle bag. Freedom to travel baby!!!
So so inspired by you Sam! Thank you for sharing all of the details and the journey you’ve been on in setting yourself up. I’m 63, solo, and on the path having just bought a van. Feeling daunted, but uplifted by this video. 🙏🏼👍🏼😉
I love your whole outlook on life. I have thought that it would be great to live in a van and go whenever and wherever I wanted. But, life got in the way, and 50 years later, I really envy you, more than you know!!! Enjoy and continue to gently use our Earth . William
Love the storage bin system. Great video.
U HAD ME AT ROOF DECK🤣🤣🤣! Thank u for ur service. Love ur van & awesomely positive attitude! Ur net zero tiny house business will be GREAT! Best of luck to u! Enjoy ur travels! Thanks for the tour👍🏻
I’m very impressed with this young man. Love this van and I’m striving for the same. #LiveIt
A real DIY van build video?!! Thank you ❤
A bit sick of the over-the-top builds, and people saying it is DIY when it’s not.
Wow! What a great video! Happy for you!
Wow, finally a built that is so incredibly practical that creates its own kind of beauty. Incredibly well done!!!
Damn...3 fireplaces? I could've used just one last winter in Connecticut. Froze my butt off in my Chevy Astro with my Campy Gear heater/stove. It worked well until temps got below 10 degrees which happened continuously for weeks and weeks. I was going to go with the low roof Transit but couldn't find one affordable enough. They have almost the exact same interior dimensions as the Astro so my design would've worked in either one. Your build is in the top 25 I've seen and I've seen hundreds.
SO SICK! this is one of my fav builds... the simplicity and craftiness is off the charts. love the milk crate magnet storage system.
Absolutely beautiful van. Love it. What a dream ...
The most interesting I've ever seen in vanlife. What I love the most is the feeling of freedom 🙏
Absolutely fantastic design. Incredibly functional. Great job and safe travels for you.
GREAT JOB! One of the best natural use designs! Thank you for sharing, a bit of your life and story! You have inspired me to do with less! I am searching for a van and will copy some of your design and ideas!
Thank you for your service 🇺🇸 Hope the future brings good things to you!
This video had my attention from beginning to end. Sam's life and van are so inspirational. It's very well designed. I've seen van builds that are much more glamourous but not as practical.
This Van is so nice
Don’t know what I as more impressed with, your build or your wisdom. Very inspiring, thank you.
Great job. Very well done..x
I really love Sam's van! Thanks for sharing! My son is also 6' 4" and I wondered what would be a good fit for him if he tried vanlife. 😀 Red
Handsome, intelligent and free man in one is really rare. The idea of two parts bed is so clever, as much storage is easy accessible.