Van Tour of Nomad Living Cheap in a Astro Minivan

[@iamfirelust]

I bet your videos send so much hope to people who feel stuck, or have no place to go. Battered women who may be scared, college kids who are scraping by, retirees and vagabonds alike. I bet there’s a bunch of people who are soaking all this in and just waiting for the right moment to pull the trigger. Thanks Bob, you are encouraging and teaching so many people that they can be free, and that there is a community that’s ready to help.

[@whatsananna]

That is EXACTLY what Bob's videos have done for me. I am now actively planning my earlier-than-expected retirement and enjoying the vagabond life after feeling like life and the chance to retire with enough money to enjoy life had passed me by.

[@meatstick6969]

Silentpartner34 don't forget about battered men. It does happen and more than people realize. Women can be mean as shit too. Lol

[@碇屋超介]

Sad, you wrote "your videos" but CheapRVliving dude has not replied. He should huh. I guess he thinks he is such a celebrity that he feels like he doesn't have to. lol

[@Thisguysimon]

It sure does help. Thanks Bob.

[@poeskey]

That's me. I would love to do this myself, and eventually save up and buy some land where I can one day live off grid.

[@noviceprepper5397]

Thanks Walt and Bob for sharing. I don't mind when people don't want to be on camera. I want to see their rigs, see how they're organized them, learn about their power set ups and how they find life on the road, but I don't necessarily have to see someone's face. I'm fine if they don't want to show themselves.

[@vikkiware5700]

alan

[@andresmoonero5634]

Man, I love Astros and the creativity owners have when building them out. I'm running an 05 AWD here in SoCal with a full-size memory gel foam mattress. Always like seeing how others cram so many of their belongings into it because that's the only challenge with these monsters. She's a beast tho, cruises great and off roads like a champ!

[@2legit2Kwit]

As much as I'm so thrilled to see this smart man's set up, I find it interesting that all the hard work we do during our live time in America may not matter in the end and we may end up in a van. It's an inexpensive way to live and may be the only way an elder can retire with a penny in his pocket.

[@dzre2087]

growing up in Mass., i got a car b/c everyone does. then i realized I could live outside Boston (or any major city), like in Somerville, and BIKE everywhere. FUN, HEALTHY, and pretty cheap! (Easy to fix bike problems too!) NO MORE CAR, GAS, INSURANCE, etc! There's ALWAYS a better way than the "tradition".

[@kameyeam]

The things you own, end up owning you. You are sad, that this guy doesn't have a house. He probably thinks it's sad, you live in one spot for your whole life. You can't take it with you. Experience > material

[@titalinda9093]

I loved the video. Walt, very very good job!! Bob, you are so smart and sweet to everyone, you make everybody feel exceptional, but the truth is.... you are exceptional!!!👏👏👏

[@cyberi4a]

I liked the window screen and how it slipped over the top of the door and the magnets. Never would have thought of that.

[@ducksinarowpatience]

It is good!

[@donaldteuber8588]

It's always great to see how creative people can be. The wisdom of simplicity . The luxury of efficiency. This is an excellent example.

[@Ch-hg1iu]

Chevy Astro the mother of all minivans. More towing capacity than any other in her class 5500 lb is literally a truck.

[@Lindasromperroom]

I loved my Chevy Astro Van!

[@matthewjohnson53]

I'm looking for an other one I had 330k miles on my 98 played $500 orginally and it was at 150k. Worked and lived in it for over a year. With the way this world is going I want to go back to the boondocking life.

[@bumblesby]

I love the fact that the interior is colorful and cozy and makes it is so much more livable.

[@lisabooker6405]

Excellent video Bob. I am currently giving SERIOUS consideration to starting this lifestyle. Just selling all my belongings and seeing the world! I just really think I'd love it. I'm still a little nervous about some health issues but I'm going to have a chat with my docs about those next month at my visit. I'm just tired of giving all my retirement and disability to rent, utilities and doctors and not having anything left for LIFE! And I did plan. I did what society says I'm supposed to and it's still not enough to have a quality life. Idk? If anyone sees this and believes in prayer, please say one for me. As a person of faith I know he'll guide my final decision. Bob, thank you. Thank you so much. I hope you know how much you're helping people like me. What a true blessing you are. God Bless you and yours, your tribe included!!

[@melodyclark4347]

Lisa Booker Amen sister. As a woman of faith to another, He will give you answers as you go. I face the same issues, just got an ok from my doc to go for it. The lower stress just more help. Just starting the big purge. Hope to be free in six weeks. Msg back if you like. We'll figure it out! God speed and God bless.

[@lisabooker6405]

Melody Clark Good for you!! I'll definitely be praying for you!! God Bless and keep you safe and happier than you've ever been on your new journey!

[@paj6644]

Hi Lisa I too am on Disability and am thinking about this life, I also talked to my doctor and he said with keeping up on checkups and stuff there are many doctors out there thru out the country that will see u and even with prescriptions u can pick those up at any Walmart thru out the country or CVS whatever, right now im looking to sell my 2015 KIA forte koup and see what i can buy to do this, right now I live on 942.00 a month and my rent is 400.00 plus electric and other expenses I know I can do this it is just taking that first step to do it, I will pray for you and wish you well best of luck......

[@grannypat412]

Lisa Booker I pray that God will bless you and you can live a beautiful life.

[@tedcastillo1221]

I'm with you sister I'm alot like you I'll for sure be praying for you keep your faith we all in this together God Bless you !!! Keep up with your meds sister !!!

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Bob you'll get a kick out of this...my friend's 4 year old kid caught a glimpse of you on my computer screen and shouted "Santa!" 🤣😂🤣😁💞🤗

[@smallfootprint2961]

Thanks, Bob. You're always so nice to everyone. I appreciate that. Walt has a nice set up there. I like the chaise. Nice to lounge and read a book or watch a video. Everything makes sense.

[@princessOfblah]

Love the multi-position bed!

[@tedcastillo1221]

I also thought it was nice great idea through some long pillows in and it's a couch !!! 😊

[@biffroberts8133]

People with self sufficient and innovative capabilities are truly blessed which definitely qualifies them as the best boondockers in my opinion.

[@joeherr7941]

The slide out in the desk is awesome....so much counter space that just tucks away....nice van Walt

[@duesouth180]

Very well done, Walt. An inspiration for my own van build.

[@michaelalvarado597]

Another great vid from a great channel! Just another mans concept of his rolling castle. These are the ones I like best. Keep up the good work Bob!

[@columbuscalvin8520]

As things are developing, I'm likely looking at minivans come January. That specific layout is a winner for sure.

[@pinetree909]

Love it! A cozy and inviting home, nicely done, Walt!

[@ShayTBD]

Awesomely clean rig. Thanks Carolyn, Bob & Walt

[@mimilion6072]

Nice you're looking after your Mum. I've lost mine and even though we know how Precious they are, we never really realise it until they are no longer just a phone call away. Blessings x

[@mettahuttravels3183]

Actually very well thought out thanks Bob, hope your Mom is going well.🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@SarahTree]

Cool video Bob! As usual! Yes thrift store finds are great for van builds. I work for a thrift store and we get great stuff all of the time. When I get my van I won't have any problem turning it into a home. Happy thrifting every body! :-)

[@joesmith-jt1ow]

100% agree, KZbin van videos are great as well, I saw people use book shelves under bed etc bed lifts storage underneath , dressers into sink tops etc, but don't forget if you have a nearby junk/salvage yard ,If they have any rvs the cabinets are worth weight in gold , they are smaller in depth height etc ,sinks, , roof vents etc it does not all have to be new top dollar stuff ....America is a wasteful nation a lot of stuff tossed out can be reused and at one time it was top dollar stuff

[@loriprebil7691]

0pp⁰⁰

[@DanChasingTheGlobe]

10:50 hello old school "TV tray". I grew up with a set of those!

[@RemusKingOfRome]

Reminds me of the beautiful custom vans of the 70s, well done.

[@videomagictv6403]

loved Walt's bed / convert to a lounger and that bucket from walmart.

[@haroldfitz5146]

Another great interview Bob! Back in 85 I had a 77 Dodge 1 ton maxi cargo van. I sure wish I had it now. Your videos have inspired me to try and find another one and go crazy on the interior

[@gbwi666]

I just got a 2003 safari AWD with no rust and a new fuel pump installed a year ago for $1300 . It only has 130,000 miles and runs great. It does need some front idler arms and ball joints and some good used tires on the front and new shocks. And the back needs an axel bearing and shocks. But the body and interior are near perfect and everything works , AC , cruise control , power mirrors , AM FM CD . One passenger side power door lock does not work (have to do it manually ) . Looking at about $250 or less in parts for front and back chassis repair . Will do work myself , but know a good mechanic that would do front and back for $200 -$250 or so not including parts. $1300 + $250 parts + $250 labor = $1800 for a good running rust free low mileage AWD van that needs nothing else. Just get one with a new fuel pump already installed and a good shifting trans because that's the biggest most common problem and expense with these things. I had an 89 Astro for 14 years and never had a problem with it other than a altanator and front idler arm. Good used alt was $40 idler arm $20 and easily installed myself .

[@Joe44944]

Awesome video, as always! Thanks and take care, Bob!

[@fabulousfoundations3507]

Bob I must say I just really enjoy your videos and I learn so much ! It gives me hope that I may be able to do this one day as well . I really love seeing so many diff homes on wheels thank u for all the hard work u do

[@honeyowen3163]

the "chase" lounge, brilliant 9:15

[@steverogers6068]

beat the heat with the green rubbing alcohol with glycerine rubbed on arms & neck works GREAT az it evaporates!

[@lifestationexpresslinda9425]

Good job Walt, very encouraging! Thanks Bob!

[@cindychurch925]

Another great interview. He did a good job. Quality is important.

[@sandydouglas3799]

Really nice and homely. Has pretty touches too. Thanks for sharing.

[@AsTheWheelsTurn]

I love those little hanging lightbulbs! also I have one of those butane type stove that I bought at a yard sale for a few bucks, I love it , I also carry a propane stove but hate hooking up the bottle and setting it up. butane is easy and quick. Nice efficient use of space in that little van.

[@lindasue8719]

AsTheWheelsTurn I agree! Of all the things I have in my SUV, I think that’s my favourite!

[@LifeBetweenTheDash]

Wow!!!! Loved that back shelf. Keeps the van open. Really looks comfortable. NICE!!

[@curliefro]

He made that minivan look spacious

[@noras.5355]

Excellent tour..thanx Bob. Walt really did a great job. Inspiring!

[@GatorLife57]

Ty4Sharing....Thumbs up ! Greetings from Wolf in central Florida.

[@raulaleman2277]

lets keep the tribe growing !

[@quinnkdjs]

Nice and it works well for him.

[@robine6337]

one of my favorite conversions.

[@Lovelace069]

pretty good...watching it again. thanks Bob

[@robbieminear3116]

I bought an Astro van due to my living conditions I absolutely love it it's a work in progress hooking up solar bathroom

[@jeffreywhitaker5713]

I do like the fact that you film with you (Bob) sitting inside the van. It give a great size perspective and lets me know how small the van space is. I'm 6'3" 220lbs and it would be hard to maneuver in that van without basically knocking everything over.

[@deejeff8846]

Jeffrey Whitaker just for sleeping and driving

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Nice video. Walt's sister could/should make and sell those slipover no-see-ums / midgies / sand flies & mosquito window covers. I hate those dang things & their mosquito cousins! 😩

[@VerucaPumpkin]

Envelope door screens. Amazing.

[@VerucaPumpkin]

I've watched so many videos and have amassed so many ideas. Thank you for your videos.

[@patsycav]

I lived in Florida for over two years. On the hottest days, I found it bearable because I was near the ocean in Ormond By the Sea. Orlando, and other areas on the western side, are more humid and less comfortable. Highway A1A goes from north to south and is close to the Atlantic ocean. That's the best route for anyone who can't take the heat.

[@jenniferashley99]

God bless him - I currently live in Florida and it's HOT.

[@rwdyeriii]

Jen P Florida can be done during the Fall, Winter, and Spring in North FL and the Panhandle. The temperatures in the daytime rarely exceed 85 and are usually between 40 and 60 at night. Summer however is intolerable. I have seen that late Sept. to late May is possible to live in this region in a van. June, July, August, and the first 2 to 3 weeks of September though are unbearable. Hope this helps.

[@hobobill3105]

You're looking well Bob.

[@suzy9342]

Nice job Walt Thanks Bob😎😆

[@ms_shineygreeneyes]

Thank you for sharing, as I am looking to buy an Astro so this is very helpful.

[@dlight2669]

I prefer the East Coast, the beach the sand and the breeze. I would like to see more vandweller, boondocking and RVer videos from those on the East Coast. I learn something new from every one I watch. A question for anyone who has been out to the West Coast did you try to cook cactus? There is so much of it out there. I had it once in a restaurant and it was tasty. Similar in taste to French green beans. It is easy to cook, sautés nicely.

[@wendyannh]

I don't think you're allowed to cut any of it on public lands, though.

[@mikeschweikert7740]

I used to live a Astro van like that,same color too,97

[@cdlady54_95]

That red organizer is a car trunk organizer from Harbor Frieght. I have one in my car. Works great!

[@lass-inangeles7564]

Carolyn, when filming, pan the camera more on van and less on speaker please. Love that bed, colors are wild, great functionality! Wish I could have seen how that hinge worked. Really love the bright colors!!! Very nice easy build, thanks for the tour! Walt, stop hiding and come on out. Say hello!

[@ociana]

Love the envelope screen design.

[@warlordblee1968]

Bungees a vanners best friend.

[@hero2006]

Great video and setup. Welcome to Florida, I’m over in Titusville on the east coast. Hope you folks missed Irma. She kicked our tail but, we’re doing well.

[@theoldfarmerswife5915]

Very nice set-up

[@Debrajoy]

Just what I will be looking for when I sell Tank! I wish you had done more detail on the bed!! I like the lounge part! Also what repairs he had to do! As a woman this is important!

[@chrisreed26]

I would love Tank but we are too far apart I think! I am way down in Tampa FL!! I know Tank will sell fast!! Take care DebraJoy!! Love your videos!!

[@cynhanrahan4012]

I keep coming back to this one. I have a mini van and I am in love with how he made his bed also a lounger. Plus his budget is almost the same as mine. With some custom stuff I want to accommodate my pets, and bug control for the side and back doors, this van is perfect. PLUS guitar stowage!

[@kestrel114]

I love those bright and cheerful colors.

[@Javaman92]

Bob, to me your motto is, "You can do this!" :-) Your talk really is encouraging, as are your videos. Thanks and thanks Walt for sharing too. I have family in Florida so that is going to be one of my destinations.

[@susanjohnson6251]

Very nice for a mini van !!!

[@susanhoward5479]

Well done walt

[@mitsuoo1012]

I like everything to be hidden away in closets drawers or in storage it looks neater that way and more professional

[@WookieSenshi]

Nice Walt! I live full time in my van in Tampa. We might be crazy for steading the heat. lol

[@CetMM]

I’m in St. Pete. If you’re open to visits, I’d love to see your rig. I intend to start my build by next summer.

[@deejeff8846]

The idea is to stay out of the van except when driving and sleeping

[@chrisreed26]

I live in the Brandon/Valrico area myself and am shopping for either a van or small rv to live in preferably stealth...and yes its too hot here!! I plan to go west or north once i buy something!! Happy trails!!

[@dafeck5574]

Probably they used a roof fan/air conditioner

[@cherbradley1085]

Chris McKenzie I do the same thing in Florida,,, you do get used to Florida weather and hurricane season. But I love ❤️ my #VanLife

[@allana8253]

Yeah makes a big difference in presenting the character in your video or not. I understand that he doesn't want to be the main item in the video, but just a "hello" would have made a BIG difference in your video here Bob. Thanks for posting!

[@BrittMFH]

Zesty Italian Just a "hello" would have revealed his identity though.

[@allana8253]

Britt H even the back of his head would have been better than nothing. Just so we would have had SOMEONE there.

[@BrittMFH]

Zesty Italian Okay, I understand that. 👍

[@annettesmith6241]

That's a sweet little set up. Not hard to do either.

[@djenphuze558]

The back shelf gr8 idea and I wanted to see how he did his curtains and hang them up

[@nohomelessleftbehind5409]

How cool is that Bob!

[@4GodsPeople]

Great job walt! I'm working on setting up my toyota sienna right now...I appreciate all the Great ideas. 😇

[@micahmitchell517]

The pockets in the curtains are great!

[@bninnabnana2476]

Nice Walt!!!

[@blessedormessy6336]

Counting down to the day when I move into my van (On the lookout for a van now).

[@mariaemilianegron]

Even though I'm not planning on retiring anytime soon I'm already putting aside some of them some of things that I will need when I when I go out camping. I love the screen and the idea of the magnets phenomenal

[@BattyBev]

I Love van tours, this one is sweet...

[@deejeff8846]

Beverly Cook not stealth enough for me

[@BattyBev]

trucker wrecker, yes, the solar is a give away, but you can always stay in places where that's not an issue...

[@katherinekatherine8512]

What a beautiful home! I love it.

[@dandydan2037]

Thanks again Bob. It's good to see that it can be done in a mini van. I would like to know the MPG difference between the mini van and a full size and your opinion on whether the difference in the space is worth the MPG savings...

[@joesmith-jt1ow]

More room in a full size deff., But as minalist living a minivan is a great set up just my thought etc. , But easy to park , a nice rack to hide solar maybe make look like a carpentry vehicle etc , a lot of people frown on this lifestyle and if they see... they call quick so you want to blend in ,but basically the camper van is a place to lay your head /sleep, maybe use the peepot/bucket if need be, I for one would want to be out in nature or walking,or wheeling dealing flea markets etc BUT A HIGHTOP would be penthouse living like a sprinter but they are pricey and it screams hey maybe someone living inside ,Whatever you can afford is what you get I guess also a longer van means more stuff (junk probably lol) so that would hurt mpg as well but a highquality or lder class b van camper set are very pricey so a homemade build is the way a lot of people go ....so good luck pal ,and rem., as long as you keep the vehicle in decent shape you can always sell/upgrade

[@nancyfahey7518]

Thank you Walt. Growing up on an island up north, the beaches I see here on the gulf are pretty sad. Ill have to check out the more northern gulf coast to see what you're talking about. And that's pretty cool that your family helped you organize.😊

[@michaelbyrd2043]

Thanks that's about the same size I have to work with some pretty good ideas I appreciate it

[@howarddirkson2921]

lived in a dodge200 camper van every winter+worked in a logging camp in canada 9 months per year,,great fun,boondogging trough 33states,but now on m/cycle,with tent+sleepin bag!!

[@lunibombom4551]

Thanks for inspiring me to buy and build out an astro van! I hope to share it with you all someday!

[@irabarker2546]

That is one of the coolest van builds i seen!

[@bradlypeterson2736]

Hey Mr Wells ... Let me know when your in Dan Diego Ca again.... Ill show you super simple and easy van design. Way cheap. Thanks for all you do brother. Hugs and high fives.

[@Berrypancakes229]

Well organized. Nice

[@brianmcclure830]

good job bob

[@starfire7779]

I enjoyed this. I needed to hear this. Thanks have a great day. 💕💕💕💕💕

[@DesertDiva]

Very nice - I'm quite "visual" so a beautiful living space is important to me. On another note, LOVE your shirt Bob!

[@ohmercy5924]

I love this! The bed is great. I’d like to know more about bed build, measurements etc.

[@marklennox2151]

I agree. I love that it can be turned into a chaise lounge. I'm building out my 2000 Astro right now and I'm taking the best things I see on these videos and will incorporate them. It will be awesome.

[@ahumanlewis]

I liked the focus being solely on the rig.

[@carolynmihelcic6056]

Very nice wow an Astro...

[@laurajphillips5981]

Great set up!

[@donnaportelli1277]

Such a nice van. What freaks me about florida is the snakes&gators!!!

[@thebestisyettocome4114]

This video is well done. If it comes from Bob Wells, it's top quality! Period 👍🇺🇸 * The gentleman and his minivan our fantastic!

[@markeast1574]

Astro vans are awesome I own a 98' Astro and he has made great use of his space

[@irhonda31]

Another interesting home!

[@elainegoad2111]

Always enjoy your videos ! Lots to learn !