A Real Look at Van Life | Free Camping on Public Land

This is real look into what a typical day of living in a camper van is like. While van life looks glamorous, we show the other side of what tends to be edited out. Enjoy and let us know what you think in the comments below.
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Joe and Kait have been traveling in various adventure based campers since 2015. For travel destinations, camper guides, essential gear and tips from the road visit weretherussos.com and / weretherussos
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[@ginny9311]

I have to be honest, this is one of my favorite videos. Real life van living.

[@Weretherussos]

So happy you enjoyed it! Thanks Ginny

[@lisav834]

Kait is awesome, she is adorable, love her personality and her positive mind ☺️great video!

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you so much Lisa!!

[@richardpedersen9189]

XL / XXL T-shirt ILO underwear works too 😉

[@stuckinmopro8533]

It’s amazing how much you all have changed since I first started to watch. I remember you traveling in a huge Class A (?) with your fantastic Leo. You often stopped at great restaurants and buffets. You then started to downsize with each different RV showing a different way of camping. You also seemed to be exploring different culinary paths. It’s been a very interesting journey and I thank you for taking us along!

[@Weretherussos]

You're welcome. I think most of us go through similar changes in lifestyle over the course of time, but with us it's all been documented so it's easier to follow.

[@andrewjones-productions]

This was an entertaining and fun video to watch. However, its star feature is its realism as to what travelling and living out of a van for extended periods really means! Exceptional insight for anyone that is considering buying some kind of motorhome or caravan (aka campervan and camping trailer or RVs). Through this video you can learn exactly what are the minimum requirements and space necessary to have an enjoyable time on the road and whilst camping to suit one's particular needs. We are all different and our minimum tolerances are consequently also different. Naturally! This video is perhaps more important than the Russo's themselves may think!

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you Andrew, really appreciate that.

[@SGudur]

The best part is cleaning the mess.. I call it "Decluttering your mind"... I started doing the dishes quite a few years ago.. I wash every utensil by hand and sing my favorite songs all along... As you see the things getting cleaned right in front of your eyes, it gives some kind of happiness... Let's declutter, lets clean... Loads of love from India, my dear Russos!!

[@suzannewch7202]

This video ranks in my top 5 favorites of yours! And to be honest I can’t think of which ones would be the other 4! Great seeing the actual state of the van and you two! Totally agree with the lack of clean clothing thing….I have fond childhood memories of our family summer camping vacation (3 weeks), during which my corduroy pants got worn daily, while helping our farmer friend bring in the cows for milking. We did not see a washing machine until back at home…..nothing wrong with some real life odor……

[@Weretherussos]

Nothing wrong with it at all

[@Luigi13]

I must say, while you show the van life Kate is the center of a lot of things so it looks? She is a wonderful wife and companion and extremely adaptable to many things, you lucky guy she is spoiling you with such a motherly and wifely services. I know you do a lot behind the scenes too, you guys are a great couple. Good teamwork and adventurous. Bravo?

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you Luigi - we do make a good team

[@nicholaskavowras7044]

Thanks guys, it’s always a pleasure…

[@Weretherussos]

Any time!

[@davidfox2953]

Talk about keeping it real… I decided meal plan, untidy RV, clean-up, toilet routine (inside AND out) and. Then Underpants Day! Too much fun.

[@bonniepwtf]

Taking a moment from my underwear day to say how much I enjoyed this real insight into one of your days. You've never really done this before, as far as I can remember & it was unique to see. You both seemed to relaxed & comfortable on camera. This is definitely one of my top favorite videos.

[@bonniepwtf]

That's supposed to be "so" comfortable not to.

[@keyplayer5]

Best video ever. You guys are so funny! Just loved how you invited us into your day. I hope you do more of these type videos. It really gives us an idea of real life in that beautiful conversion we are considering. 💕

[@queenbear4581]

Kate is a good nurse, cook & chief bottle washer.

[@carolynenochs9139]

I smiled (and chuckled) the entire time I watched. I have enjoyed all of your videos, but this one showed the real deal, and I appreciated it so much. Have fun relaxing and keepin’ it clean 🧼 🧽

[@Weretherussos]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@mikemanjo2458]

Thanks for keeping it real. Kait is amazing! Good to see that y’all are real. I just thought we were terrible slobs. Love from SC, Jane❤️🙏🏻

[@jennycraigadventures3314]

“One thing we doo doo is bring the toilet out.” 😁

[@Weretherussos]

It works on so many levels

[@beverlychandler3191]

Thank you Kate for being so very real! Spelling incorrect...but Hunghaou! This video is exceptionally enjoyable cause it is basic and typical rather than perfected...

[@Weretherussos]

You are so welcome!

[@musicdesign7264]

I was laughing throughout video. Great idea to do ground coffee in the van. Less is best when space is limited.

[@twd1953]

Yes, my wife and I totally enjoyed this and all your Videos. Thanks, it was very original.

[@lynfl9814]

This one was about the reality of van life. Great idea! We all need chill days. Since we retired and COVID hit; I have had too many of those kind of days. I have tried to talk my husband into a camper or a RV van; no luck. Your channel makes me think how great that would be; you can still see new places without being around people.

[@cheersdarlin916]

This is one of my favorites. Just a little more sneak peek into your personalities. I loved it!

[@TheEdelKampers]

We think underwear day is awesome. It was nice checking out how you chill out in van life. Thank you for sharing. Mary💕Fred

[@gordon3988]

Can’t believe you did a video on simply a messy van; can’t believe that I really enjoyed it! In part, because you are enjoyable to listen to; in part, because it is was not that different from us when we are on our trips in our class B. Well done and thanks guys!

[@Weretherussos]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@Drmikekuna]

Thanks so much for this real view. I'm a part-time van dweller and I well know the shuffle that goes on for just about everything. Doing one thing means putting away something else. Even simple tasks like finding a can of soup can mean sorting through several baskets. When I solo camp I can organize a bit better, but when I camp with someone it is a constant effort to keep things running smoothly. In the end it all works out and in some ways the additional efforts make me slow down, which is a good thing (at least for me).

[@allenbazar2707]

Enjoyed this video so realistic.That is what Camping /Van life is really like,not everyday is a vacation!

[@pamelaweihrauch7735]

Loved this video! Love seeing your quiet days! Enjoy your underware days!!!! Enjoy!!!

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you! Will do!

[@LisaMarli]

I have underwear days too. And shorts or jeans I can quickly throw on when needed. The main difference from my casual day to yours is you are in the Middle of a Forest. So that makes yours more awesome. Enjoy your van life.

[@wendyfilice7101]

Omgoodness you guys are so cute. I love hearing the names of your meals. I could not pronounce them either but love hearing Kait. 😍 love seeing the reality of van life.

[@NoProGoPronto]

I'm going to need all of the ingredients to that meal so I can make it this weekend. YUM! Thanks 🙂

[@Weretherussos]

Hey! Long time no “see”. It’s very simple - just eggs, canned tomatoes, Chinese 5 or 13 spice, soy sauce and sambal chili sauce (we found ours at Walmart)

[@gaillittle1700]

I don't do underwear days but Sundays at home you'll find me in my pjs. I work 5 days a week and a pj day is a must. Thank s for this video, I love seeing how you both live behind the camera. ❤

[@ML-ws6ce]

So much fun to watch "the normal van life"...oustanding:)

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you M L!

[@WeekendWanderersOverland]

I work from home on Fridays...ALWAYS underware day!!

[@dallaskl90]

About time you put Kate back on the camera she's awesome she's beautiful and I'm jealous great job you guys

[@sallyburkett-caskinette8723]

Oh my goodness boiling water before putting it in the instant pot, and eating out of a reusable bag.. too funny!

[@jimchristensen965]

I really liked this one. Fun, fun, fun.

[@scottthejeepguy7499]

What a great video of behind the scenes van life, thanks Russos, love me some Russos. 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻

[@Weretherussos]

Glad you enjoyed it - Thanks Scott!

[@edbenson98]

I loved the real look you gave us into real life with the Russo's! You two were made for each other!

[@eileenstickney80]

I love that he used a stainless steel double boiler for a bowl. How convenient to have handles. I’m going to put mine in the rv.

[@Simplelife_seeker]

Paused at 10:42...because I have to say this is my favorite video of you all. I think the "Real Look" vibe looks AMAZING on you two! The conversation, the laughs, the honesty jabs about the morning routine. I've been following you all for years but I must say I love the format of this video. Plus I get to see a bit further into Kait and who she is. And now back to the show...

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you so much!! Enjoy!

[@dhorner09]

We too like to do our business outside when possible lol. It was really cool getting to be camping buddies at the Placerville event!

[@wayneullman5079]

By far one of your best videos!

[@sammiepuppy4196]

Thank you for sharing. Coffee and beer are two of the basic food groups for campers👍🏻🤣

[@Weretherussos]

You got that right!

[@peri3818]

You two are a very cute couple! Enjoyed your real life Vanlife day.

[@mikeparkerson6492]

Hey! I have a lot of underwear days. Of course I live alone so it doesn't bother anyone that I do.

[@pebblesdd4947]

Such a great van real life snapshot! Chillax, recharge, lounge, uwear, books, beer and finding a tree! Throw in a couple of chihooahooas and I know the shift and shuffle well. Kait I love love your hair, gorgeous.

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you!!!

[@nicolalehmann7608]

Water conservation tip when washing dishes: two spray bottles, one with watered down soap and a second with clean water. That way you don’t waste water by turning on the tap.

[@Weretherussos]

Great idea - thank you!

[@Hsia_Travels]

Love love love tomatoes fried eggs. I've made those with noodles too. Also have you considered a folding mini washing machine. I've seen those for emergency washes for a couple of shirts or under garments. You can get it in Amazon. Also made some cold noodles with peanut butter sauce (not sesame), easy peasy. Wish I have more time to take mine out like you two. Hard to travel only on weekends...😭

[@Weretherussos]

We have one that you have to fill with water and massage but haven't used it in years.

[@xrpxtrariceplease2811]

Joe you always got injured 🤕! But we still love you ! You have an excellent nurse by your side! How is the Mode compared to your last truck?

[@sandylee1717]

Kate is precious!

[@commonsense592]

You both made me laugh today. I think it's your relaxed manner that makes your vids so enjoyable for me. Stay awesome.

[@russripley8963]

What a great video. “Real life van mode” is soooo good, thank you for being real. Keep them coming.

[@Weretherussos]

You got it!

[@chrisc161]

This episode was interesting to me. I was thinking in buying similar RV and getting to see how the space is used it was very helpful.

[@nancylagoyda5337]

That was so much fun! I know we have never met in person but I really feel like I know you now. My husband and I went camping in a van last fall and you could have super imposed us in this video, down to the toilet. We have camped in a tent for 40 years of our 48 years together and it pretty much went the same way as the van. See you soon.

[@orvsr4me2]

You mean you don't always live in an unrealistic vanlife photo shoot scenario? I do enjoy seeing behind the curtain.

[@Weretherussos]

Ha! Glad you enjoyed it Brian!

[@darlenestout7548]

Love it. Sounds like you guys are real. Glad to see that. Lol

[@sh99x]

Loved it. This is what I imagine van life to be. Chill.

[@donnamagillacutte50]

I love underwear day! Great to see you guys in chill mode!

[@orientxiaodongli]

The Oscar of RV life 2022 goes to this one!

[@SonofDarnell]

Guys I really enjoyed a day in the life of van life video it was excellent and a wonderful learning experience!

[@Weretherussos]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@johnwilliamson9453]

Real open kimono vlog! Nice watch! Thanks Kait and Joe!

[@robertabrams8562]

This was a great video! Your interior didn’t look that untidy (I’ve seen worse on other channels lol)! I liked how you used Sambal on your eggs & tomatoes - gives it a nice Malaysian touch 👏🏼 Always my best to you two 🤗🤗✌🏼

[@Thesaltymedic36]

Love the campsite. Just quiet in the pine 🌲 trees. I’m surprised you don’t have a hammock to nap in. The trees would be great to hold that. ✌🏼

[@Weretherussos]

We do but forgot to bring it

[@LuckyLarry]

The only thing better than underwear day would be celebrating “PAJAMAKA” all day. We consider”PAJAMAKA” the holiest of all days in our home!

[@Weretherussos]

PAJAMAKA is a new one!

[@colltech25]

Love real life with the Russos!!! Awesome. Thank you for sharing.

[@LincRYAN]

Good video guys. You guys really showed what it is like 👍🏻! Really enjoyed the video! You guys ROCK

[@Weretherussos]

Thanks so much Lincoln!

[@edancohen3461]

Now I’m hungry!! Have you two ever eaten shakshuka? It’s a Middle Eastern version of the dish you made. I’m sure the flavor profiles are different, but you’ll enjoy it, I’m sure. Thanks for this great video.

[@Weretherussos]

We have and really enjoy it.

[@LarryBlue55]

You both are a hilarious couple.

[@joanhall3718]

Loved this “behind the seems” day in the life. I’d love to see future day in the videos .

[@bevgunson1486]

You’re in our beautiful neighborhood! So nice to see how you live! We downsized to a small trailer and are loving it; shifting a bit each morning is worth it. Safe travels

[@ginNjus]

In Cantonese it's called Faan or Fun Ka Chow Done..loose pronunciation. It all depends on the ripeness of the tomatoes. Don't be surprised Kate got Green Bay Packers apparel.😎 Go Dolphins 🐬

[@BloomByCC]

The struggle is real in this video. I love that you’re showing real life. That meal looks amazing, you need to post the recipe in the video.

[@Weretherussos]

If you rewatch the video, you’ll see all the ingredients I put in. I just wing everything so flavor to taste

[@doodlethebeagle2078]

thanks for sharing, this was awesome. Good water saving tips. Cheers 🍺

[@darrellbrixey5341]

Awesome video guys! 🤙🏻

[@Weretherussos]

Thank you Darrell

[@GetOutBeHappy]

Hmmmm, I'm reading your book right now and I must came across this paragraph. We seem to notice the camper vans more than anything. When we were at the vineyard in Paso Robles, we met a woman who was staying there in her van. She had been living out of it for almost a year, and it had everything she needed. A bed, tiny bathroom, table and a little kitchen. We both agreed we could never live in something that small, but it was intriguing that this woman could park her van just about anywhere.

[@mikeparkerson6492]

Kait handles chopsticks better than I ever would!

[@paulacartwrightjohnson8479]

Great video! Love y’all! Thanks for sharing!

[@Pumpkin2844]

So nice to see you guys depict the reality of van life 🙌🏻 it’s all about using every square inch of the place 😊and shuffling stuff around as needed 👍… naps happen and adapting to new coffee methods can be fun ! You guys are great!

[@Weretherussos]

Yes! Thank you!

[@deborah4579]

So great to see both chillin and showing a the reality of a day in van life. I think we all have underwear days! Thanks for sharing this. Always a bonus when we get to see so much of Kait’s smile. 😊

[@Weretherussos]

You’re welcome!

[@mickster1780]

a day in the life...in the woods...no one else around 😎

[@ericliume]

This episode is so much fun to watch. Like it alot.

[@doggonervn211]

You have a great wife! Wish l could have found one "decades ago!" But my two dogs are a good substitute now.

[@tradersato]

Like others have said, this is about as good a video as you’ve done. There is a lot more information derived from your real interaction with the van and yourselves.

[@Weretherussos]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@danieltaylor3396]

In order to get the Instant Pot lid seal to be long lasting, it is best to store the Instant Pot with the lid not screwed on.

[@hiropro2002]

Best video so far. Not too "structured". Not too much "script". Just the normal van life...

[@cactusinthemirror]

Great video! For us our 25 ft class C is as small as we can go. I need a private bathroom. Lol. Happy travels!

[@Weretherussos]

You as well!

[@angiechi1622]

Fun to watch 😊

[@chantalc6444]

Nothing like a freshly brewed coffee after a nap. Or anytime, really! 😅This video was very fun to watch, please make more of these!

[@lindastrous5243]

Fun guys. Stay safe.

[@michaelgepson2877]

I love the small lessons of the Chinese language and cooking! Nice!

[@susanm4988]

You're close to me! I just got back from the crater lake area and scouting out spots on multiple forest roads. I have to say though, I'm jealous of the place you found! It's very forest and thick trees down here!

[@sportstyler50]

Great vlog! Just a chill day

[@MichelleCouplandHairStudio]

The van cleaning stuffle

[@lily_white]

There are laundry detergent sheets(dry laundry detergent). It's 1 sheet per 1 normal load of laundry. YOu could bring them along easily since they're so light, tear off a small piece, and hand wash a piece of clothing or two easily when you're running out of clean clothes.

[@Mary-fq6sm]

As an RV couple, this day of van living is pretty educational.😁 We travel in a 31’ vintage Airstream & the morning “stuff” shuffle & moving toilet situation is a hard pass for us. I guess we all decide what we are willing to live with. We have a set kitchen, recliners, bathroom, closet, etc. But this means we need a big diesel truck & parking on drive days can be a hassle. Cheers guys!

[@Weretherussos]

Yep great point. We used to be in a 30' Class A motorhome so we understand but being small and nimble, for us, is worth so much more.

[@johnvsf]

Great video! Thanks for sharing!

[@sugrd]

Great idea to use canned tomatoes for your scrambled eggs, I never thought of that before, I've always just used fresh tomatoes. 西红柿炒鸡蛋看起来很好吃 加油 挺你

[@Weretherussos]

We prefer to use fresh tomatoes, but the canned ones are handy for camper life.

[@judyhobday4760]

I do like the van and how you go from day to night and back. And I thought I recognized where you are, near Sisters. The trees. I need to look for 11 spice, and as a side, I got my insta pot after watching you with yours. Love it so much. I want a Burky but need to save up for that. Also, the electric water pot. I have my mother's cast iron skillets, one large, one small. She got them when she and Dad married in 1938. Love your videos.

[@jeannemc8087]

Kate you are the star of this show. Also you have beautiful hair I started watching you when you were shaven, what made you do that. Any way love your healthy hair and beautiful color especially when the light hits it’s not black it’s a mixture of colors. Thumbs up Thanks Kate star of the show

[@dr.williamdunbar7334]

I so much love this video. You are such a great couple and so inspirational. We all love you guys!

[@jackienation7694]

I think this is my favorite video!

[@mikeparkerson6492]

Excellent video! Informative re. routines through the day. Excellent idea, excellent execution...

[@Weretherussos]

Much appreciated!