Deciding What's Next... Should I Continue Vanlife?

[@JarrettGaza]

Some advice from a retired guy now. At your age you may not realize it, but this life flies by rather quickly. don’t over think it just do what your heart tells you. You selected a beautiful area in the country and if I were young and had to do all over again that’s the area I would pick. Sell the camper while the value is still up there for the down payment on your new property and look for a truck camper to do weekend and vacation camping. Established those roots now. you’re young enough where you have plenty of time to travel and camp. My parting words, don’t overthink just do. I’m sure you’ll make the right decision.

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you so much, Jarrett! 😊

[@airstreamer]

We've been watching you for quite awhile, and you strike us as someone who thinks things through before making major decisions. We will still enjoy watching your travels, no matter what that looks like. Prayers for your safe travels and the ability to make the best decision for your and Rue's future. 🙏 - Jim & Michelle

[@jameter21]

I would build a large garage, just a shell, on vacant land. Plan to park the van inside, connect to amenities, and live in it still as a home base. Plenty of room for the dog to roam, and the flexibility to take a remote contract on short notice or a short vacation. Taxes would be lower, and you could garden to your heart's content.

[@earlhamil731]

I’m 75 years old. My 38 year old daughter is a Dr. of School Psychology. My 46 year old son is a Dr. of Sports Mgmt and Athletic Administration. My wife’s health is not good. And I still work. Knowing what I know now, if I were you I would travel and see as much as a could in every corner of the world because you can do it and I will never be able too. You can settle down when you’re 50 but doing what you do is a once in a lifetime opportunity. I bought my first property in 1973 and have been a slave to ownership ever since.

[@LynnDespatie]

Enjoy Canada ❤ I love the idea of having the best of both worlds. Having a home and a less expensive vehicule to travel is a wonderful idea. We love our truck camper ! We bought a Ford F150 with the built in generator. Allows us to power the camper. Love it and no regrets !

[@Rollergirl601]

I think if something isn’t serving you well for your current stage of life then it is ok to change directions! ❤ We live in Eastern Washington and we sold our truck/camper combo along with almost everything we owned so we could by our place. We bought somewhere that we can hike, camp, ski, and ride dirt bikes right from our front door. We’ve lived here 3 years now and I don’t regret this decision one bit. Just the lifestyle change has been so much better for us. I know we will travel more again in the future but I love having a home base to come back to after all of our adventures. And I’m also open to a different set up this time as we don’t really need anything very complicated this time around. Anyway enjoy your Canada trip and good luck on your next contract in Western Washington. We lived over there for 42 years! ❤

[@bethgreen5587]

There is a tiny house community on the Oregon coast. Beautiful views and sense of community. It’s called Tiny Tranquility ❤. You could still do KZbin with a little different focus

[@marianclaassen8127]

I lived in Washington state for 30 years, moving there in my late 20s. I don’t live there now, but eight of my closest friends from that time still live there. It’s harder to make friends when you’re older. Now is a good time to create a community.

[@molly_brianne]

Welcome to Washington! Lived here my whole life and still love it to pieces! Found your videos while I consider van life but I too have a dog and do wonder how she would feel about it as a home! Thank you for all your thoughtful sharing about your personal experiences in your van life! Holler if you would like any hiking recommendations or any WA tips in general. I live in Kirkland, WA btw. 😊

[@grayeagleswolves]

Hi Sarah I Love the idea of you and Rue settling down and getting a community home some where and to get a truck camper Yes absolutely get one you will love it

[@pattyhastings4648]

Hi I totally understand your concerns …. I agree with you selling your van for all the right reasons….. My husband and I had a trailer for 5 years , after driving all over the country we got tired of towing, driving through big cities 😅 never was good at backing the trailer…..Since we have a ford F 150 we bought a 650 Lance camper. We spent 10,000$ to upgrade the F150 brakes, air shocks, lifted 2inches , for stronger bigger tires….beefier suspension my sons friend has a truck shop he did all the work on our truck… we have never been happier…. The Lance 650 is the smallest and lightweight they make… our F150 is a 4 door, we took out the back seat to have more room , we fit our bikes in the backseat plus chairs etc…. We can park anywhere, always fits the small campground spaces if needed…..plus good on gas my husband is 6ft 7in and can take a shower and room to stand , the bed is comfortable…. The camper has more features than our trailer!! It’s small not for everyone but we find it very comfortable and all the benefits a big rig has. we love it!!! we are always getting compliments…… Lance campers are one of the best made campers…… I wish you much success and happiness have been enjoying your youtube videos for a long time….. thank you for sharing and Rue is a❤🐶

[@debrafleeger8975]

How exciting to move forward into the next adventure! I had hoped that one day we would connect on the road even though I’m not full-time it would’ve been fun for two Drifter Van gals to connect. I trust that you will know what is the right path for you to take. I know that when we begin a new direction if we’re clear about what it is that we want to manifest, it happens effortlessly. Be joyful with lots of laughter!

[@markv.5962]

Sarah, i agree with your plan. If that’s what your heart is telling you, it’s probably the best idea. And also better for rue. She’s your child and you have to do what’s best for her too. Sounds like a no brainer to me. Just shoot us a video once in a while. We’ve all grown to love you both. Good luck

[@jlokanis]

Get a 4Runner and a teardrop. Then you have a reliable daily driver and a hardshell camper that is easy to tow for adventures. Also, the PNW is the best. Grew up in the midwest and moved here after college. Best decision ever. Good luck finding you and Rue's forever home!

[@sdz9850]

Re-fi the van at a lower rate, now that you have good equity in it. Then, buy property and live in the van where Rue can have a lot more space. In time, you can plan, save, and build on the property.

[@MiLa-bd6vq]

Dear Sarah, yes, travelling is a wonderful thing, it opens your mind and fullfills you with so many impressions and new insights. But all this wants to be processed. So it's good to have a place, a real homebase, to come back to and reflect the experiences. And in my opinion the most important thing in life is having real friends on your side. As you said, it's easy to make some, but to hold them from a distance is hard. If your heart tells you to settle down than go for it. Try it. If it's not good for you, you can change it. Travelling is even more worth when you have a home to come back to, it's something more special when it's not everyday. And, as Jarred said, don't overthink, trust and follow your heart and your instincts. Good luck 🍀

[@KeystoneOwl]

I have so enjoyed your videos! As for your next steps…just follow your heart. Ask yourself what you would really love. Take care and hug Roo.

[@sabrinachilds9483]

Rue deserves it and so do you. I think it’s great that you are giving it so much thought. Follow your heart and you can’t go wrong. One idea would be build a tiny home im the tiny home community in Oregon, mentioned earlier and sell the van and get a smaller trailer for travel.

[@joleighva]

I got married much younger than I planned (23). I do regret not having more time alone, but I knew it was the right decision at the time, because he was my person! (we both worked in healthcare too) Hubs and I spent the first 17 years of our marriage traveling as much as we could. When I finally had my child at age 40, we had so many great memories and no regrets! We did continue traveling with our child, but it limited where we could go. We celebrate our 30th anniversary in a month and my health has forced us to put travel on hold for the near future. I’m SO GLAD WE DIDN’T WAIT! You’ve done more traveling in the past few years than we ever could. Get that home base and start traveling overseas. Have friends you see regularly and can count on. You will not regret it! You have to follow your heart. It’s the only way you can be sure you won’t regret anything. (If I hadn’t, I wouldn’t have made the only good decision I made in my 20’s!😂)

[@Annette_Hons]

At least a home is an investment, an automobile is not. I'd say get rid of the van, get a house, get settled, then when you are more financially set, get another rig. It sounds like you have found the part of the country you love, so that is wonderful. We'll all keep watching your adventures wether you are traveling the country or you have a home base!

[@sandrap3047]

Rue is so sweet! You should build a tiny house. I remember when you rented one before. You can always rent it out if you want to travel or take a contract job. Would be nice to always have a home to come back to!

[@fbr65]

We are part time van lifers, and I’m about to retire. We thought we would live in an RV or the van when I retired, but we recently decided to buy a house. So now we are also renovating a house while finishing up the van build and my last few months of work. Having a home base now sounds good to me, although for many years I didn’t think I’d want it. Getting our dog also impacted our decision lol

[@plhm33]

You have an excellent life plan. Go with your gut feelings. I love your van and your adventures. It truly reflects your personality, and you put so much thought into its construction. We loved exploring Canada and upstate NY this summer. Enjoy and follow your heart.

[@libbybertrand9320]

Sarah, I think that this decision to find more permanent roots is a good one for both you & Rue❤️You have really thought this through and you are thinking what is best for Rue! The Pacific Northwest area seems to be a great fit for you. I can see you living in a tiny house, with more room for you & Rue, and a 4x4 truck for weekend camping. Looking forward to what is next for you!😊❤️

[@tracyhickok]

Oh Sarah, you could not have picked a more beautiful place to possibly live and adventure! I moved up to the PNW from CA 20 years ago to get married and I'd never go back! Washington is so magical and there are so many beautiful places to go. A Great launching pad to Canada! If you end up in Washington and want info on different areas let me know. My husband and I are Realtors here and can give you a lot of good info. There are also some great loan programs for first time buyers too! Just enjoy your life while you're young. Time goes by so fast. I love watching your channel and all your adventures. It warms my heart so much that you always think of Rue. ❤ Canada will be amazing this time of year. Have an absolutely wonderful time and stay safe!!❤

[@NomadicSarah]

Aw, thank you SO much Tracy!! 🥰

[@goldie74]

You sound so intelligent and mature. Your planning for the future is on point.

[@kennethwilliams5407]

Settling down with mobile options sounds like a great idea. Instead of a truck camper why not a rig similar to what you had before the van. Smallish pick up and a small towable like the R pod type units. Much easier to hook up (load, unload) and probably more room. Also it can be packed and sit in driveway while you are getting ready for a trip. What ever you do I'm sure it will be well thought out and will work until situations change again.

[@johnj4264]

Yay Sarah, welcome to the PNW to set up house! I think you and Rue will be very happy here. I'm in Seattle, but there are so many awesome spots to call home throughout Western Washington. I'm a native Washingtonian, but moved out of state for a number of years. Loved the experience, but I've been back here since 2020 and it's great to be back. If you have any questions pertaining to the area, don't hesitate to ask. :)

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you so much!

[@TheSmdl]

As I am getting closer to retirement each year, my best free life was my young life and traveling the World. Enjoy it as long as you can. There is nothing wrong with a base camp. But do not tie yourself down. Get yourself a property with 2-3 bedrooms. That you can easily afford and allows you to grow. And small enough for retirement. Get a SUV/Tryck or an other smaller van. I love car camping. Stealth and easy to parc. I have a home base. And love my little SUV for camping.

[@pattyk8594]

When you get another camper just for weekend trips or 2-week trips, seriously consider the A-liner pop up camper. Good luck on the next steps and thanks for taking us along!

[@elainepereira7483]

Welcome back to Canada!!! 😍 Hopefully your border crossing goes a little better here on the west coast. It is beautiful throughout the province of BC at the moment. Good luck on all your big decisions!! Change is good and nothing has to be forever. Trust your gut and go for it! Safe travels.

[@mariagautier5956]

I say go for it in purchasing some land with a home with sweet beautiful Rue. Do what you need to do with selling your van and downsizing. There are some nice truck rigs out there if you want to do that part time. I follow a few truck rig channels and they love to go boon docking in some gorgeous areas out west. I agree what others have said, maybe look into a tiny home community? The feds did lower the interest rate a point for the first time in way too long, supposedly there will be more lowered rates? I live in Florida, and I can say with certainty the prices of homes with land is not coming down here if much at all. Eventually I will be moving out of here myself. I wish you all of the best in whatever decision that you make. My sister is also a travel nurse and loves it!

[@vgh332]

I love that you’ve found a place to call home!

[@deedavis3269]

Mostly what I took away from your video is that you’re ready to put down roots (for now); you’re ready to get rude if the high interest loan for one that will do better by you long term. Personally, truck campers are a PITA 😂 maybe a very inexpensive, small travel trailer. Just a thought to add to the 100s you’re already having 😂 Like I saw in one comment, try not to overthink too much, but it’s smart also that you’re weighing out what ‘feels’ right for you. Also, I love Rue (roo). I’m partial to huskies and GSD. Jealous of your CN trip 😉 enjoy! Be safe 🙏🏻

[@stephanleslie]

WELCOME, young lady, your choice is a good one. The Pacific N.W. is a area that will allow you to do so many things. Great choice!!

[@sharonmansfield3053]

Hi Sarah. Permanent roots are always good to have. I lived in Washington 13 years and when I retired, moved to Oregon. While you are still working, I would opt for Washington because income tax is a lot lower. However, crossing the Interstate bridge in Vancouver, WA is a pain and traffic is absolutely horrible. Property taxes in Oregon is the highest in the US! Winters in both states are cold and wet, gray skies and gets depressing for a lot of people. Crime is high in both states. In Oregon, roads are the pits in a lot of cities. Washington takes better care of their roads. Both states in the summer are gorgeous, lots of outdoor activity and things to do. If you ski, winter is great! Good luck, don’t follow your heart when it comes to finances, use your head! Interest rates are coming down and will continue to fall. Don’t rush into it, do your homework and you will be fine. It’s not the biggest investment you’re going to make, however it is a big one. Start with something small and work your way up. Rue will love wherever you are! ❤️👍❤️ P.S Have air conditioning in your house because the summers reach 100° plus and you don’t want Rue home alone in the summer in sweltering temps. Plus you want to sleep at night!

[@nancyleab]

I think it is smart of you to sell it now. It is a beautiful van. You are welcome visit Santa Cruz sometime.....The northwest is a great choice enjoy your adventure

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you Nancy!!

[@markturboi]

I was born and raised in Western Washington, and now live in central Washington. You couldn't get me to live anywhere else, except South Shore Lake Tahoe. I hope you settle in Washington, you will never regret it.

[@schmonsequences]

Consider that the Fed just dropped interest rates by half a point, likely with more to come. This should increase demand for houses, and accordingly their prices. I wouldn't expect the same increase in demand for land though, given that those purchases are generally done with cash. Buy some land that allows seasonal camping (full time unlikely unless you get enough acreage to disregard zoning laws). You can live in your van while you figure out the next step.

[@angelaexhorts]

Keeping your van as a 2nd property would be something to think about. I don't know your finances, but if you could pay the van off within a year and be completely debt-free this would allow you to save the down-payment for your land and/or future home. The van would be a 2nd home for when you travel. I love the idea of buying property for home base and community, but keep your van as a 2nd property for long term contracts in different locations. Again, I don't know your finances and how soon you pay off the van and save money while paying off the van. Look at the van as 2nd property investment. Mobile 2nd property is an excellent investment for those who like to travel and especially, have travel careers. You are getting alot of good advice in the comments and the final decision is yours. Your van would be a good vehicle for setting up your non-mobile property because of the space to haul large items. Friendly Suggestions 1. Debt-free Life with Investments 2. Mobile Home with Mobile Community as a 2nd Property 3. Fixed Home with Fixed Community as the First Fixed Property 4. Freedom to Travel with Mobile Home the 2nd Property 5. Multiple Income Streams such as the KZbin Channel that shares your travel life and keep your fixed home life private

[@J.A.M.133]

Sell, find your community for you and Rue. You are young you can always get another van later in life.

[@turnbullstravels735]

I think for the first year or two in a new home, you may be really busy “nesting”…decorating, getting Rue settled, etc. The next van can come later…I think you are right to see the current van as a source of funds for a down payment.

[@shadow0511usmc]

Excited that you are back in the PNW and glad you feel good live here.

[@markreams3192]

It sounds like you’re ready for a permanent home. I’m a retired RN and live in a small travel trailer with a membership to Thousand Trails. Through most of the year I stay in Southern California and travel for three months out of the year. Because I’m retired I don’t have to be in a specific area to work. You would probably need to find a permanent position in a hospital to get a home. This would definitely limit your travel time throughout the year. It’s a big change but buying a home is an investment for the future. At this point in your life it’s not a bad move if you’ve chosen an area that you want to live. Just make sure that the homes in the area are affordable.

[@kenmcclow8963]

I would look at refinancing your van to see how it might change the numbers. You might be able to pair that with buying some land to spend time at when you aren’t working. I think your van has had some depreciation and if you buy a new truck or van it will depreciate again. I would probably only sell the van if you were tired of it, or if it was draining your finances too much. Buying property kind of locks you into an area. I’m in the opposite situation where I have a house that makes it hard for me to get far away from. I was gone for three weeks in June and blackberries have taken over the back fence and grown up into the trees in any place I can’t easily get to. I have lots of fruit though. I guess the land thing depends on whether you want it for escape on time off, or you want it to be near work.

[@grayfox9911]

Do whatever makes you and Rue happy❤

[@anitagriffin1734]

Eastern Washington is a wonderful place to live!

[@tomjohnson5700]

Love your vids. I'm always looking forward to the next one you share. Your van may qualify as a second home tax wise. I think all you need is a kitchen and toilet . It might be worth checking out.

[@heatherfitzgerald329]

I live in Australia I have bought a MH ducato With all my heart I wish I had put a deposit on a off grid house that I liked instead You do what's best for you and your lovely animal

[@stevec2665]

I just want to know what brand chair that is at 5:14 in your video? I've asked before and hope this time you see my comment. My chairs falling apart and need a new one soon. I saw your chair in a different video and it looked like what I want but can't find it. Thanks 🙂

[@NomadicSarah]

Sorry about that! It’s REI brand! You could also search on Amazon “collapsible camp chair”

[@alvinmousseau1100]

Nice video

[@Jmaninaz1]

Just trust your intuitive voice--I think having a fixed home base would be great move for both you and Rue, and with the Fed's 1/2 point rate cut that should bring down mortgage rates a bit. Hope everything works out just how you hope!

[@2CorgiMom]

I love that you’ve settled for the PNW! I’ve lived on the Olympic Peninsula my entire life. Have you explored this area? Housing prices here are cheaper than the larger metro areas like Seattle or Portland.

[@likekegoings2697]

I think it would be interesting if you purchased property and built a home and documented it My wife and I have been considering doing this in Washington. So many unknowns.

[@ClairenParkerontheRoad]

Is it the moving in and moving out that bothers her or just a consistent thing? My dog gets anxious when we go on little trips but when he knows it is his only home when we are out on a long trip he does better.

[@trex4078]

Take your time and figure out what you truly want. And then go for it.

[@kathleenjasa3125]

Thanks!

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you!!!

[@stephanleslie]

Could you refinance??? When interest rates come down??

[@Sarahbear2000]

Now that you know the area you want to focus on, I’d line up a permanent job so you know what your income will be and then decide on houses/van accordingly

[@jimlooram2544]

Here is your answer Sarah. Sell your van right away. You lose equity in that than every month. Move to the Pacific Northwest and find your dream location rent a small apartment bank the money from your van because you will need that money right away if a house becomes available that you are interested in and get a full-time job in that area. Once you get into your house, oh and by the way, the interest rates are going down, but you might wanna wait a little while so you get a better rate for instance like the beginning of 2025 once you’re working full-time, you buy your house and after you close escrow on the house then go out and buy a camper van. Probably your best bet is after you sell your van by a pick up truck and then later you could buy the camper, it could become complicated if you find your house and you haven’t sold the van yet to put down the down payment good luck to you.

[@NomadicSarah]

Thanks so much for your advice!! 👏 I really appreciate it.

[@herpiggy4857]

Yeah, everyone should buy a home based on what their dog needs!

[@derekdestep40]

BeccaY has a nice pop up camper

[@jazzy5389]

I would never rent my van because people may not return. You never know anymore. I would keep it no matter how often you use it.

[@deejones64ify]

I dont know if you would consider another small airstream, but I'm selling mine( upgraded bambi 19 cb)

[@Step-n-Wolf]

The PNW isn't sunny enough for me and the politics aren't my thing. I bought property in Arizona where you are welcome to visit when in the Show Low area @RidgeValleyRanch

[@margaretgosnell8281]

Sounds to me like you have in your heart and mind decided. Selling the van and using money to get a house . The truck camper sounds great for part-time traveling.

[@eileneluethe1936]

Truck campers are more expensive than small trailer. If you are thinking of selling sooner is better people like new and no damage.

[@LLPhillips]

Buy land cash, put your van on it until it is paid off quickly.

[@jenniferhood3982]

Have fun in Canada. Have you thought about buying land and living on your land in the van until you build a home?

[@MonaA2018]

Are you selling ? Because I’m totally interested in van life.

[@NomadicSarah]

Feel free to email me if you’d like to discuss details! [e-mail]

[@rod1147]

where can we see it for sale?

[@NomadicSarah]

Feel free to email me if you’d like to discuss details! [e-mail]

[@karenmcdonald6680]

How much for the van? 🤓

[@NomadicSarah]

Feel free to email me if you’d like to discuss details! [e-mail]

[@bonnieson4989]

U do those hospital gigs at different places isn't it going be hard to settle down at one locale? U should sell it if u can make a profit from the van. Get a tiny home on your own land, then use ur jeep to tow something small. A truck camper is so cumbersome and very small. Rue wouldn't like it.

[@agpolen]

Sounds like you need another airstream 😂

[@Alikhantanoli-yf6mo]

Can i invite you Pakistan can you travel here?

[@LLPhillips]

Tax payoff purchases etc.