8 Years No Rent Experiment | Living In A Simple Minivan Camper

[@StaticCamperVan]

Here’s a Playlist of videos for more information: kzbin.info/aero/PL9PWzpL1cZIHqSZqC7ho6jhfWSQaLisGF&si=bmMSijfPItamCOd9

[@Jacquelyn-xp1nb]

Thank for the kind feedback on the water filter, as I will now attempted to make my own with the following information you have given in the demonstrated link. I've only seen one other homemade water filter, it wasn't as sturdy as yours. It's going to save me lots of $$ this way rather then continual water purchases I've made every couple of weeks. I remember you saying you use dirty water, do you have the advantage of collecting from running stream water coming down from mountains or both the cities water faucets? since you are mostly a city van lifer, just carious. I also would love to send some pictures perhaps once I'm finished because I've never done anything like this before, I don't own a drill, I will now in doing this project, and would want to show my appreciation like paying it forward, and be proud while drinking clean water I filtered myself, Thanks to you!

[@StaticCamperVan]

When I say “dirty” water it simply means any water that hasn’t already been filtered. I would only use river or stream water in an emergency situation since that type of water will clog up the filters quickly

[@Jacquelyn-xp1nb]

@@StaticCamperVan Good to know, I'm glad I asked, I own a 2009 Chevy Tahoo xxL fully loaded only 11 miles when I bought new, currently 43,000 I've always considered converting into a secondary home on wheels, I was stricken with an health issue in the past, now more managed and feeling better. now asking myself whats up a head for me and my Chevy, watching your channel is helping me with these many questions. May you continue to have overflowing blessings upon and around you. Be healthy n Safe. Thanks again

[@WalkingDead2024]

​@StaticCamperVan Would a 2021 Nissan NV200 be any better (mechanical wise)? I found one for $16,850, but it seems they also have a history of transmission issues. They're discontinued.

[@StaticCamperVan]

@WalkingDead2024 there’s a very good reason why they were discontinued. It’s not just the transmissions are extremely bad but the engines and rest of the vans weren’t built well

[@SusiesRepeat]

How rare, someone actually telling the truth, both the negatives and positives on van life.

[@boohooproductions-j9i]

T.V., you ain’t missing much, I find myself watching more KZbin than actual tv, all the good tv shows were in the 80’s and 90’s to me.

[@StaticCamperVan]

KZbin is all we need

[@Gypseygirls]

Absolutely, love my you tube. ❤️

[@Archie-23]

Love you tube, maybe too much as there is so much to look at.🙂

[@silverlining6259]

Agred

[@boohooproductions-j9i]

@Mike1984-lc9rh well I don’t sit around all day watching KZbin

[@madisonrae7052]

Scott, I usually watch you on my TV but I went onto my computer to let you know that I admire you for living life the way you want. I love watching all the beautiful places you travel to on the west coast. Thank you for sharing your life with us all.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Madison

[@jacquethirlkel3001]

I have moved away from commercialized van life channels like vancityvanlife. Yours is just basic life. Thank you so much! God bless!!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Chrome is a good friend of mine. He’s been incredibly helpful and supportive over the years. Chrome is a Great person.

[@InsightVidz]

Good. Some vanlifers are selling, not real.

[@seanh4841]

You don't need to be fancy to be happy

[@seanh4841]

@StaticCamperVan I agree, he comes across as quite genuine, his channel is quite big so I'm not surprised he can't answer all emails

[@StaticCamperVan]

@seanh4841 yes, Chrome has a lot going on. I’m always surprised when he responds to my text messages within a few minutes since he’s always busy

[@ChippiSweet]

As I edge closer to retirement, van life is becoming more appealing because of folks like you who took time to make quality videos about the lifestyle. So glad I found your channel. 😊☕️

[@StaticCamperVan]

Awe, thanks Chippi. It’s nice to know that I have provided you with some useful information. Is that coffee for me?

[@gunadeva8048]

Your lifestyle reflects the kind, resourceful and intelligent person that you are. From Australia I look forward to your videos. Go well Scott.

[@ChippiSweet]

Yes (blushing)…

[@KimKirkham-e5f]

Ya van life seems like a good option if you don’t have a lot of money . In my retirement I’m thinking about buying a van and convert it to home.

[@TaylorandDaddy]

Really nice setup Scott really nice and comfy the bed looks great I love this lifestyle but I really need a good shower.. I currently take about three showers a day I love showers . I do read about all the people that do the planet fitness showers in Van life which is a great idea get a workout get a shower anytime they're open 24 hours for 10 bucks a month you can't beat it

[@WandaWorley]

So proud of you! I too am not van life... CAR LIFE... I am 50, turning 51... Getting away from evil people. I am a Care Manager. I work hard and saving to buy a home. (God Bless!)

[@offbeatscratcher]

That looks like plenty of space especially when you can just step outside and be wherever you want.

[@willewinky]

I'm over 9 years debt/rent free because I downsized from a luxury apartment to a one bedroom house. Best thing i did.

[@gregorystinette8271]

The most important thing about van life is to choose the most reliable vehicle available. I live in an old 1995 GMC van & it is simple & and bulletproof.

[@darladillaha7466]

You are my favorite van life KZbinr. Have a great week ❤️

[@StaticCamperVan]

Aww, thanks Darla

[@marianfrances4959]

Awesome!!👍😎🇨🇦☕

[@markmccoy1304]

Key words-Happier and Healthy. You can’t put a price on that. I’m impressed. And great engineering.

[@cdmbooks1493]

Great video. Those living in conventional homes will never be able to appreciate the freshness of outer air or how gorgeous the moon glides behind a sunset. That's what I miss most about living in my car. Many more years of happiness to you Scott. Thanks, for sharing.

[@DjD5]

My home isn’t “on wheels” yet I appreciate and enjoy crisp morning air, sunrise and the moon’s phases. They ain’t just for folks who live in vehicles to appreciate, ya know.✌🏼

[@cdmbooks1493]

@@DjD5 Hi. What I am saying is when I was homeless, I was forced to begin the day emptying trash and I'd roll down the window to an incredible breath of fresh air I don't get from looking out the window. At night I was often afraid. But the sunset rested my soul. Nothing being inside of a home or apartment can give you.

[@DjD5]

@@cdmbooks1493 houses and apartments have windows that open also…you don’t have to live in a vehicle to enjoy “fresh air!”✌🏼

[@54andBored]

A home isn't prison 😅

[@cdmbooks1493]

@@54andBored No. But being homeless places you in nature and an environment you might not otherwise see. When I tell you waking up to that whiff of fresh air from my vehicle, no home window ever gave me that feeling. I am housed now, but I miss that direct contact daily with nature.

[@violetatcontentboutique7188]

Congratulations on 8 years Scott!! I think this lifestyle suits you beautifully. You say hiking is your hobby, and I'd say photography is your art. You are a fantastic, keen eyed photographer with an innate sense for composition. ... perseverance furthers ...

[@StaticCamperVan]

Aww thanks

[@Kirbygal55]

Hi from Australia. Van life here is getting more popular. There is a housing crisis (as there is worldwide). I retired two years ago and decided to give up my rental and hit the road. I almost accidently found house and pet minding which I do as well. Van life is not cheap. I have had a few expenses, but even though I haven't managed to save much, my emergency fund has remained the same.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Good to hear that you’re doing well

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

Being a house/pet sitter is a great income plan - plus nice breaks from the road!

[@sxwrtr918]

Great video. I moved into a hi-top nine yrs. ago with my cat. Continued working ft as I had been. This allowed me to save even more by nixing rent/utils. Now recently retired...peace, mobility, no debt. Have all I need and am comfortable. Roomy van also allows me to exercise when bad weather prevents hiking All the best to you..

[@susie4517]

I love your life Scott. Your analytic and so smart in the way your home looks. It's homey and so cozy. You made a good decision. 😊❤

[@socaloutdoors7355]

Right on Scott! Been watching from the beginning. In my eyes you’re the TRUE vanlifer…everyone else taps out, buying land, buying big fancy rigs, trailers, etc. Great milestone and always appreciate your content and low key vids you put out.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Hey I hope you’re doing great, thanks

[@matthias9781]

I started van life in Montreal and I also love being outdoors, get all the vitamin D I need

[@toddeshelman484]

Scott, my wife and I have watched all your videos and we have enjoyed each one of them. I have a brother who lives in Santa Cruz and I am amazed at how expensive it is now to live anywhere on the coast of California. How awesome it is for you to be able to enjoy the places you have been able to be at over the last 8 years and not have to work three jobs 6 days a week to be able to do that. You could live cheaper by staying out in the desert all winter but being able to take a walk on the beach or a redwood forest every day is truly priceless. I tell my wife every time we watch your videos that the best part time job you could get for yourself is working at a coffee place LOL.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Hey Thanks. Where I am now in Humboldt is a little less expensive for me to be. But yes, prices are high everywhere. Haha, a job in coffee would be great

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

True - Scott could do sometime at a local Starbucks; after having the training, (1) learn how to make a great latte and, (2) can work anywhere because any Starbucks anywhere would hire you on the spot. 😊

[@ekdaufin1485]

I appreciate your gentle manner.

[@lxn7404]

Your van looks like the interior of a space station and that's really cool

[@Ki7oba]

Congrats on 8 rent free years. From someone stuck in a death contract (mortgage)

[@StaticCamperVan]

I’m sorry to hear that. Having a mortgage years ago didn’t work out well for me. But there are some advantages to having your own home

[@pharlapnz4630]

So True!

[@8corymix8]

I'll take the death contract. It'll be paid off at 55 years old & has doubled in value v v that & staying at my career for over 23 years & counting along with a large 401k balance will provide me a comfortable retirement. Good. Responsible lifelong decisions

[@Daz5Daz]

There are some significant advantages to owning your own home. For my wife and I it means that once the kids leave home we can sell up, downsize, move out to a countryside/coastal location, and put a huge slice of our equity into the retirement pot.

[@FernPoyser]

Absolutely

[@BaBaYaga1999-p7u]

Your channel is “cozy”. I enjoyed your recent trip to Bainbridge Ft Ward. All the best to you!

[@conchscooter]

I had to rent a car recently and I was annoyed it didn’t come with a toilet so I suppose you could say we are used to living in a van. We’re retired, three years traveling in a full sized Promaster and full of admiration for you living in a mini van. I like standing up in my home! Best wishes.

[@sonyacurti]

Your voice is so very soothing to listen to.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Sonya

[@williammcneill2753]

I wander how difficult it would be to get voice work

[@onrycodger]

Wow! 8 years...That's Heavy brother. Rock On!😎👍

[@briarrose5208]

Thank you for relieving my curiosity about toilet facilities. I’m glad you’ve settled in to van life. Best wishes for your health! Stay well and happy!

[@margoburns9085]

Happy Anniversary Scott! I have been watching you for years and love your "real" content. Here's to many more years and videos! ❤

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Margo

[@df2mobile]

You have a great voice. Super explanations. Power to you!

[@mralekito]

Really incredible that you have lived like this for 8 years. Your van has lasted that long too. Your content is always honest and relatable. You are true to yourself and your lifestyle. I wish you all the best for the future.

[@justdawndb]

👏👏👏 Thank you for the true glimpse of van life. What a great set up! This is the Only constant I've had in all my years.... the longing to live as you. (for all the same reasons) I am presently at a turning point..my kid wants me planted in a house so she doesn't have to worry about me, she means well..... I'm 66 Thank you for posting your playlist, sending you the best possible "vibes" 💞

[@Griffo5446]

You have my immense respect 🙏 Arthur from the 🇬🇧 UK

[@collincao3561]

There are many experienced vanlife experts out there, but you are the solid one that makes me believe you truly live in that amazing van. There are some with amazing built but most of them are half-baked.

[@Zak_How]

Your set up seems practical and doable. Thanks for sharing

[@tamararenee7317]

Wow Scott! You've almost convinced me to look at mini vans for my next home. I too want to be more outside than inside. Thank you for the tour!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Sounds like a minivan might work for you too

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

Do it! YOLO! And film your journey! ❤

[@josh200505]

Every time I see a van like yours on the road, I envision myself living that lifestyle and saving a lot of money. Congratulations and thank you for sharing your knowledge.

[@leeleroux9092]

Thank you Scott❤ I am researching starting Van life. I am so grateful to have found your channel.❤

[@okmmauh]

All positive comments. You are helping so many people

[@ScottOstr]

This video makes me want to go around my living and explain each part. I admire that you're enjoying living in different parts of the US.

[@WatersandWilderness]

I hope that your health improves.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@MeeMawSaidSo]

Oh my goodness .. Same !! I don't have a TV and don't like watching TV .. I do use my phone to watch KZbin for ideas for the stock market and vanlife .. My future goals ❤❤❤

[@ROSIEBGOOD]

Ditto 😊

[@timfarness9949]

Yes another year, congratulations. Your set up is one of the best for a mini van. Everything you need and most stuff you don't . I'm glad you are honest about the costs involved. Just your coffee alone is more than I regularly spend on it. But you get premium beans from small roasters and I like that.

[@StaticCamperVan]

It is very important to me to support small family owned businesses

[@nowucme4u]

Congratulations Scott. I cringe every time I write a check each month for rent for a place to sleep. Even if you had a cheap place you easily saved over 50 grand.

[@StaticCamperVan]

I’m not sure if I would have even made 50k over that time. Haha

[@peterbedford2610]

I did it for 5 years. Saved enough to buy a house for cash. No mortgage

[@Artsylady2030]

that is awesome......

[@romac9516]

How have I not seen your channel before?! Fascinating tour sir, 8 years is a very long time so you're quite the seasoned vanlifer!

[@jwrangler12]

8 years doing the real deal. Very impressive.

[@SeattleBlythe]

I always look forward to your videos! I agree with the love of walking! I walk about 5-8 miles five days a week and I feel so much better and it puts me on a walker’s high!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Blythe. I’ve been slowing down a bit. I walk then stop and take in the view for a while!

[@juliebutler8241]

I got so excited when your video popped up Scott! Happy 8th Vanday to you!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Julie

[@Samboslice1]

Legend mate! Actually a real van life page. Keeping it real brother 🤙🏼🇦🇺

[@overcoffeemeditativemoment8084]

✨️🌌🙋‍♀️☕️This has made for a delightful evening listening to you Static as the years you've recounted... The little salt lamp with light on gives a warm glow and so home-like gives the feeling. Blessings ☕️🙋‍♀️🌌✨️

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you. Have a wonderful evening

[@overcoffeemeditativemoment8084]

Static, Thank You... Here it's just begun to rain and lite thundering. Coffee seems to be just the treat to make. Your Kindness appreciated 🌌⚡️🙋‍♀️☕️

[@cynthiataylor2092]

I really enjoyed this video. You showed us how you managed with daily issues from filling the gas tank with keeping enough toilet and, of course, daily coffee ☕️. I like you, have coffee ☕️ two to three times a day. Cindy 👋

[@DriveLongRoad]

Scott, good to see you healthy. 8 years is a long time. you have stamina. a real endurance runner, so to speak. hopefully everything will continue to go well for you. 😎

[@donaldteuber8588]

In a space the size of some closets you have managed to provide yourself with the necessities..and comforts of life...without being over crowded. This is an example of... The wisdom of simplicity. The luxury of efficiency. Good job.

[@j.taires5889]

Continued best wishes to you - I can’t wait to get on the road in a home on wheels - thank you for sharing w us - very helpful 🌿

[@martysmom3328]

Wishing you continued happiness and success in your chosen lifestyle.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@emartin851]

Congrats on 8 years Scott! You are so well organized & informative, really enjoy your content.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@thizizliz]

So yeah, I think you're more able to control what you eat when you make things yourself. For some folks that's no big deal but when we have health issues, controlling intake is critical. You've done a great job of fixing the van to suit yourself and it's the perfect setup for your life.

[@davejackson5597]

Really enjoyed your presentation. You are smooth and kept it going. I live similarly but in a 4wd and yes walking is my favorite hobby.

[@DonnaNichols-ep5de]

Thanks for sharing your life with us. Safe and comfy travels dear Scott... May the warm n fuzzies stay with you, and fun and adventure continues to softly call your name. Sending you big fat hugs and lotsa love❤

[@barbdurban900]

We appreciate you too Scott., Take care

[@LindaStokes-ff2kv]

Great video Scott.. Enjoy your messages and your travels.. Stay safe out there.. :)

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Linda

[@jamesfoster9256]

Gosh, I remember now I had a GMC Safari I had a lot of fun camping fishing, hiking all over Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado. I wish I still had it.

[@davidgriffith902]

What a great video. I love your set up. It looks very efficient, stealthy and practical. Thanks for sharing🍻

[@B33333]

Congrats Scott! Living with heaven on earth inside your life right now.. Rent Free and Travel everywhere! Staying humble and Safe out there Scott 💝

[@turtlegram31656]

Trinidad beaches are gorgeous. 🐢🐩🐶🐕🌊🌺🌻☮️🌙🌈✨

[@chancefitzgerald7740]

Great decision, you have done well. Love the video updates.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Chance

[@pamduran2753]

It's so homey and organized ,very nice you are a very day person.😊

[@cinderella5053]

Ty for sharing Scott. This has been a dream of mine for some time now. I also have ailing health. I just tib free, drive across Canada and enjoy my retirement ❤❤❤❤

[@tgoodson2]

I've lived van life about the same number of years and you describe it quite well. The reason your van is more cluttered now is you now value functionality over appearance

[@complexlittlepirate3589]

This is the best van video I've seen, and I've watched a lot. I've lived in a static (horse drawn) vehicle too for several years, albeit on my own block of land, and I love the small, cosy and simple way of life. When I retire in a few years godwilling, I'm going to have a vehicle like yours.

[@dominiquebt]

Congrats on 8 years. I still think you have the most practical/functional setup I have seen in a minivan. Love your cooking videos the most:)

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you. I’ll try and do some more cooking

[@islandgirl5472]

Aloha Scott - I’ve learned a lot from your perspectives. Through the sharing of your life experiences, you are teaching others that we too could all live a minimalist lifestyle if we had to. We used to pay for entertainment (going to the movies, going out to eat, going to the water park etc) but now we take rides around Oahu stopping here & there, we spend more time outdoors going to the park, having picnics and going to different beaches. Thank you for always keeping things real and looking to find joy in things and places that surrounds us. I subscribed when you were at less than 20,000 subscribers and I knew if people found your channel they would immediately become subscribers too. Thank you for all that you do for us. Safe travels 🤙🏝️

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks so much, Island Girl. I didn’t realize that you’ve been watching for so long. I appreciate all your support as well as nice, uplifting comments. Oahu must be a great place to enjoy the outdoors (don’t tell anyone but I’m starting to get tired of the cold temperatures. Been running my heater a lot lately, haha)

[@abbysivirian]

I just started rv full time living life and I feel that while renting it’s the best thing to do. I’ll get to travel and once I’m ready to buy a house I’ll be ready to settle in one spot

[@happyhermit2022]

Really interesting thank you and good luck for the future.... watching from Spain 👍

[@aidantech]

Congratulations Scott! You seem so much happier than working a job you don’t like to pay for things you don’t really want to

[@deborahgoulekas71]

F70 … Always enjoy watching your van life videos!

[@The-new-carnivore-me]

Hi, I love your videos. I just wanted to share that I have reversed my arthritis quickly by going carnivore and have zero health issues. I don’t know what your health issues are, but many people are curing themselves of serious illness (like Parkinson’s, etc.) with carnivore.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks. My doctor has me on a diet that was designed specifically for me. My doctor saved my life with this diet

[@margaretspurling8162]

I lost out with your van life for awhile I sort of missed seeing your experiences. I hope to not loose your station now. Take care, stay well.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Margaret. Hope you’re doing well

[@HaroldBell-pr1ds]

Great Job....I want to take that step but..... may have to wait a little more.

[@ex-engineer6657]

Thanks very much. I admire your dedication to improve your life. I really likeyour calm presentation and efficiency. Subbed.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@misamisa2677]

A van that seats drop in is great in case you want to sell it, i prefer using middle of van for sleeping, relaxing, eating without anyone seeing me. Only 2 blankets or a 4 inch foam os great to sleep on. I set up 3 brown 5:45 plastic dressers from walmart each had 3 drawers each drawer had designated items, clothes, shoes, bathroom stuff, cooking stuff, easy reach

[@michaelcostello1401]

June 9 2024. You are an honest good person. Really enjoy watching your videos

[@lindatambini9123]

Well done Scott you have the van looking good everything you need do you miss having some company wishing you safe and happy travelling and keep well Linda in Scotland ❤ ❤

[@GiaJustice1]

You have all the extra money to add on to your van system ,awesome

[@camillaholst7321]

- and THANK YOU so much for this video. It is so honest and straight forward: what's not to like 😊 Safe travels and enjoy your walks & coffey. Greetings from Denmark

[@CatEarDad]

I can see this guy being comfy in a small truck camper as well. 😊

[@hiker750]

This is an excellent and honest review of what we encounter in van life. Thank you for covering all the pertinent things without making it such a long video. You have a great setup. I especially like the work station and the cooktop you have!

[@mariawalsh335]

I like the setup inside your van , well organized and you have everything you need for your daily life 😊

[@zawarshah508]

Came across your channel. Excellent vlog enjoyed watching your vlog. You must have great experience and lovely memories of the great places you visit. Absolutely blown away that you managed 8 years in a small van. Will keep watching from now on.

[@fastgurrrl]

Good presentation hon.

[@unstopitable]

I always find it fascinating how people's living spaces live and grow with them; in your case, b/c the space is small, it's going to be more noticeable, of course. Thanks for giving us insights into your interesting life. You're definitely a survivor. Good bless.

[@theinfinitymachine9610]

Most practical can I've seen. I really hate these new vans with butcher block and a huge kitchen sink and appliances and a big shower. It's gotten out of control.

[@smoofollowingqalroundthewo206]

I love watching Dee (w/the Lady Bugout channel) because she has created a luxe interior on the cheap - way nicer than most of the expensive ones.

[@lorenl9262]

Great video and very much appreciated as I may have no choice but to go int the vanlife lifestyle. Kudos to YOU!!! :)-

[@Rlaplante73]

Nice van life overview with a candid assessment of the pros and cons of your 8 years of experience. Thanks!

[@CLdriver1960]

I consider myself fortunate in that my PMC has no issues with the engine and transmission. I have over 110,000 miles on it, and this fall will require some $$ in maintenance. Congrats on 8 years!

[@snakeyes2126]

Good job Sir ! I envy you ! I would love it !

[@seanh4841]

Well done on the 8 years, you have many great ideas, 3 years for me in July, I love your podcasts, they have a great chill and relax vibe

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Sean

[@RichardHarlos]

Hi, Scott. Enjoyed your down-to-earth vibe and practical view of 'real' van life. Liked and sub'd.