Endless Bad Advice In Vanlife, City Vanlife Versus Desert Van Living

#vanlife
There is too much bad advice given out when discussing vanlife. The one big piece of advice that is given often is to pack up and drive to the desert. And I think for many of us, that is very poor advice.
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My name is Scott and in 2015, I bought a Ram ProMaster City to live in. Even though I didn’t know much about RV’s and campervans, I set about building the van out as a minivan camper. And in April of 2016, I moved into my minivan full time.
Over the years, I’ve learned you don’t need to have a big skill set to build your own campervan. And that living as a minimalist and utilizing solar power can be a less expensive way to live. I’ve also learned that a minivan can be a very comfortable home.
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[@well-knownun-known2699]

Scott is so easy to listen to with a calming tone. Great content and locations. 👍

[@clive6267]

Agreed.

[@seanh4841]

Sure is, great to chill to

[@mjarboleda789]

I don’t know what it is about his voice but I have to start watching his video 4 times before I can make it to the end of it because I fall asleep! Hypnotic? Agree, I love his video content and humor.

[@pam164]

Yes very calm

[@lindafreeman4230]

I agree and love all the good information. One of my favorites!

[@inspiredfaith197]

I love how you show your location on the map. It's a nice touch since you're always on the move😊.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@dallastrujillo7540]

I know. I like that too. Then I know what specific places I want to visit waay up in Nor Cal. I love the way he films his videos and I guess all with just a phone! Gets into what he’s talking about then the dead pan humor once in a while. Love how he sneaks that in to almost every video. Always interesting and he does his research. I always learn new things here. Thanks Static Camper! 😀😀

[@vantravelingwithlaydeemae5167]

Vanlife is versatile there is: Inner City Vanlife, BackCountry Vanlife, Forest Vanlife, Beach Vanlife ,Snowy Mountains Vanlife, Rainy Day parked on a Target parking lot Vanlife ,Campground Vanlife, RestStop Vanlife and Desert Vanlife 😊 ❤

[@VanDelica]

Love it!

[@tianikane3312]

Birdwatching vanlife, canoeing van life, rockclimbing van life, retiree van life.....

[@inspiredfaith197]

😂😂😂 Love the breakdown.

[@ThatGirlLib]

Guess it depends mostly on where you live and if you’re anchored to a city for your job.

[@exploringnext1111]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@Wendmera2379]

If i were going to live in my car i would take advice from you instead of the others. You are more honest.

[@HerCalifornia]

You should do voice-overs-- strong calming voices earn $$. Your voice is a gift!

[@noreenn6976]

I agree!

[@CADreemz]

Do you have a company that you recommend?

[@HerCalifornia]

Check Google. It is competitive. He will need to create a portfolio of varying speaking narration scenarios. In the beginning, a lot of time is spent auditioning, as well. It pays off once you “make a name” for yourself. The set up equipment is doable.

[@exploringnext1111]

Agreed

[@cadence9055]

“In the desert you can't remember your name 'Cause there ain't no one for to give you no pain” I hear you! I prefer being alone and isolated so 🌵 are my friends!! Each to their own!

[@b.l.wilson9724]

Everything you’ve said in this video makes sense. Thank you for the content and thank you for staying true to who you are. ~introverts unite~

[@velipso]

Good advice. People ask what should be in their build -- it depends on how you live! Solar was a waste for me because I didn't spend time in the desert... No need for a shower because I went to gym. Your build needs to reflect your needs. Not everyone is the same.

[@tinastheoutsider]

Im in a minivan and have a 100 wtt solar panel connected to my 800 wtt bluetti so I can use my frig and whatever else I wanna use/ charge. Im in Detroit Michigan area far away from the desert and I get enough sun out here at least from april to october and then I usually can travel south or to az for the winter if I dont stay with friends or relatives in the winter here in Michigan. Hope this might help ppl decide on what suites their personal needs.

[@MissyQ12345]

Visit New Mexico -- where the sun shines 300 days a year. Beautiful winters, hot hot summers.

[@tinastheoutsider]

@@MissyQ12345 I have been there and Az .

[@rvgrandmacharlotte4604]

Desert is also very dusty. I like the desert but not all the dust!

[@StaticCamperVan]

For more than forty years I’ve dealt with all that dust!

[@aprilhallwood4704]

Yes! I spent several weeks in the Moab area last September. Not only was I blistering hot every day exploring, but filthy. I felt like Pigpen from Charlie Brown 😄 Stunning scenery though! Utah is spectacular.

[@rhondaweaver4486]

Hi! Thanks for being so frank about concerns over health care. That would be on my mind, too. I didn't want to intrude and ask. Thanks for the walk in the park!

[@Hard_Car_Life]

You needed to say that "Quartzsite is a big city with absolutely no amenities out in the middle of nowhere!" Very nice video.

[@StaticCamperVan]

I did say that

[@samanthadodd8112]

I really enjoy watching u for ur sense of humor. Love smart, dry humor.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Samantha

[@VanDelica]

It’s very subtle… those little slight smiles…

[@cotter9751]

Great episode! I've long hoped for some balance in my own vanlife - as it grows/unfolds. A bit of city, a bit of wilderness (desert, beach, mountains, whatever). The worry is that cities, in several cases, have become hostile to those outside sticks and bricks.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Otter. There certainly are some places that aren’t very friendly. But in my travels I’ve found that the PNW is generally very vanlife friendly

[@64MAGA24]

I think the issue is folks that park their vehicle and then never move and it gets really ugly quickly. That’s rampant throughout CA. But I, like you, enjoy variety although I prefer being near ocean, parks and not to far from quality food sources and bulk water and propane. I tried Quartzite when I first bought my van. It’s just not my scene and frankly I felt less safe there than in any city I’ve stayed in. Happy Trails to You.

[@AleciaSilvano-lw2ue]

Ran right to the comments to say yay! Love the longer videos ! 🎉

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Alecia

[@overcoffeemeditativemoment8084]

🌄🌲🌮☕From a sunup to a setting sun... All day traveling with you... Ah the tasty foods and delightful coffees. The Park so very lovely and clean, inviting. Scott, thank you for taking us along... ☕🌮🌲🌄

[@cmoorejack]

Great video! Thanks..your voice and friendly demeanor is iconic..you just may be the Bob Ross of Vanlife! ✌️

[@ellek6505]

You nailed it. I was trying to think of whom he reminds me. BOB ROSS. Very comforting and soothing.

[@sherriwillette2492]

Really enjoyed your words and advice. Do what’s best for you. So important to remember. Thank you

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Sherri

[@user-ik7rz4gg8u]

As a new nomad I'm loving it! I love the fact that I can travel anywhere and anytime. Thank you Scott for your wonderful perspective!

[@darladillaha7466]

This is my childhood park. I love it. I'm moving back and excited for all it has to offer. Thank you Scott. I always enjoy your videos.

[@StaticCamperVan]

It’s a great town. Thanks for watching

[@richardbutler9484]

Butter and olive oil, a match made in heaven. Advice is more fun to give than receive.

[@hjpinternet1244]

I always shut off the gas from the gas cylinder 1st so then any remaining gas in the pipe to the burner has time to burn off. leaves pipe empty & helps take away the gas oder. Happy travels 😊

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

My favorite advice from you is your 5 part series on "stealth camping". 😂

[@StaticCamperVan]

Steve?! Is that really you?

[@jamelcampbell4984]

And to save on water to boil eggs, the mini egg cookers cook eggs with minimal water and can be plugged into a power station.

[@rogerthornton4068]

Thanks for the video. Stay safe.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Roger

[@Joanneeisle8458]

Another enjoyable video. Nice shot of the birds on the water framed with tree branches.

[@adrigroenendal]

I only i knew witch the are..

[@kellnwayne]

Another great enjoyable video as always Scott! Always look forward to Monday’s just for your video’s.

[@seniormaninavan4335]

Howarth park seemed like my kind of park. I like a park with covered areas with electric outlets so I can charge my solar storage batteries or cook a meal quickly. I also look for those water fountains where you can fill a 32 oz bottle. I try to fill 3 or 4 which meets my daily needs. Walking trails a must!

[@user-eo6bk9sg5y]

That’s right you can be happy wherever you are because being happy is just another state of mind

[@thizizliz]

I think you're right - at least up north, the extra moisture in the air is nicer for a lot of thing. And so is the ability to get nicer things like organic coffee and such. But I also love the desert. One of the things that makes CA great is the variety. Enjoy.

[@CALIZONAOUTDOORS]

That is a great idea! The locals who live here all year like to go out and camp during the winter. Suprise Suprise! Snowbirds everywhere!

[@nancylagoyda5337]

You are in my neck of the woods. I walk in Howarth park all the time. My grandchildren live right by the park. My home is in Windsor and my favorite is Healdsburg. Great walking in Taylor Mountain park and Shiloh park.

[@noreenn6976]

Beautiful area!

[@ElyseF00]

So pretty there! I haven’t seen lots of the area but I did love the short time I spent up there ages ago. Can’t wait to get back.

[@beascoloringcave]

One of my favorite YT channels! Scott you deliver great content every time!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@beascoloringcave]

Welcome! Watched your ads! Have a great night.@@StaticCamperVan

[@barbaragamache2751]

I've been waiting all day for this

[@livingsimplytosimplylive6817]

Another amazing vlog. Update: Hey another non-smoker and I too have never even had one.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@SherryAnnOfTheWest]

And me! I've never smoked anything in my life, I have a real bias against smoking ... but I live in the PNW and love smoked salmon!

[@livingsimplytosimplylive6817]

@@SherryAnnOfTheWest I have tried smoked fish, it smells absolutely delicious but I just can’t get used to the taste. Now it’s probably been 20 years since I’ve tried smoked fish so maybe you should give it a shot again.

[@countrycrossstitcher3573]

Same! I was a childhood asthmatic so I’ve never touched them

[@padmepadme]

With very lightly toasted sourdough bread, the bread is more flexible, and egg salad [et al.] squishes out less.

[@stephen627]

Another good video production Static Camper Van Man. My statement centers around light mayo vs. regular mayo. I use light mayo and really notice the lack of flavor in doing so. You’re not the only one I notice that shares that opinion on Quartzite.

[@lindatambini9123]

Hi Scott you do give really good advice love your channel you have to look after your health and not stay to far out just in case keep well and take care of yourself happy travelling from linda in Scotland ❤❤❤

[@jeffersonspace]

Great video Scott. Enjoy watching your channel each week.

[@eliseninesling6913]

Thanks for sharing, Scott. It's interesting to hear different perspectives about living locations. I love sourdough toasted also. Take care and safe travels

[@ruththompson9369]

I miss the water, I live in the hills and only get to Oscan about every two to three years.. I thankful for our river because I can go sit and watch the boats ..

[@StaticCamperVan]

River time is good, too

[@emartin851]

You shared some really good points Scott, thank you.

[@tootsweet2518]

Pleasant video, you are the nicest video maker. Fun tour

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you

[@violetatcontentboutique7188]

Santa Rosa sounds like a coffee-shop haven! thanks for the thought-provoking post! . I think you seem much happier this winter, up in Santa Rosa, than last winter in the desert. It seems like a really nice place! ... can we see some more of it? I always wonder where the open mics are in a town. We had such a lovely one in Culver City. ... Good old Mama Pajamas ... I've been picking up my guitar again lately. 😺💜

[@CADreemz]

I'm glad you made this video about the pros & cons of the desert verses the city. I have worried about the desert because I got heatstroke there in less than 20-30 mins, (in So. Nevada in Sept.) I do not think I could survive there full-time, lol! I'm from the coast, but have been living in the Sierra foothills for 20 years. My friend is moving to Santa Rosa next week, and I'm going to share your video with her because that park was nice, plus Cuppa too! Thanks

[@lesliehunter1823]

I recently learned a new way of making eggs. Saves on propane. Eggs in water Bring to boil Put the lid on Turn the heat off Leave for 15-20 minutes Done

[@user-si8vt5gv1h]

You can cook rice & pasta like that too...& many veggies.

[@user-si8vt5gv1h]

You can cook rice & pasta like that too...& many veggies...with a lid & a heavier pan/pot. Cast iron is great for this. Leave the lid on for an extra 10 mins beyond cook time. (No peeking!)

[@heartdawg]

The dessert is getting more dangerous, especially if you're traveling alone. Quartzsite and the surrounding areas are full of trash!! It is a shame. 😢

[@MissyQ12345]

Dessert is dangerous for me cuz it's fattening. Could not resist...

[@CALIZONAOUTDOORS]

It's the "nomads" that are trashing the place.

[@dianneyoungblood689]

I eat bigger early in the day and little after 6….. great for weight control and I actually sleep better too.

[@MissyQ12345]

I try to eat only once a day -- around 4pm -- and try to have a very small snack about 7pm. Intermittent fasting is working for me. Tried losing weight for years, and it's working now.

[@DanitaReynolds]

I’m the same, I eat my main meal around 11am and a snack around 4pm. I have coffee first thing in the morning, drink water throughout the day and one or two mocktails. It works for me!

[@lindabohl2454]

Hello Scott! ❤ Nice video, thanks for sharing. 🙏🏻😇🕊

[@SarahTree]

Great video 😊 I really enjoyed this one! I always tell people to vanlife wherever they feel comfortable. Try out different places first to see what works best. Thanks for the great video! As always happy trails! 😊❤

[@brendalloyd1903]

You have such a cosy set up there. Very independent, but approachable too. I love your little routines x

[@robertross8565]

I agree with you about parking in the desert for long periods.

[@Zak_How]

That looks like a really nice park. Thank you for sharing your experience

[@gaylenebone3912]

That is a beautiful park. And a lot of bird life. I especially enjoyed your conversation.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thank you. I was surprised to see so many birds

[@Lisa-16]

What a wonderful park. Glad you are happy 😊

[@tmaz3654]

100% agree with your advice. I love watching your vids to explore your planet (North America) with you. We don't have deserts here in uk. where I live in South Wales I am surrounded by lovely coast and great countryside that I can explore, and wonder off into England my birthplace more in the summer months. Visited friends near Spokane a while ago and flew over to Seattle for few days ( love it there) drove up to yellowstone area adventuring, then and down to Portland exploring on the way. Didn't see a desert anywhere 😄 keep up the good work, love your sense of humour you make me smile Toni

[@jogibbons4149]

I agree! I am comfortable in a smallish city. The weather is the key factor to staying comfortable in my tiny minivan home

[@robertross8565]

I agree that with health issues it makes sense to be near medical care just in case. You're a smart man.

[@ronkimbriel2619]

Great video.Thank you

[@user-by5mu1vb5h]

Great Video!

[@dallastrujillo7540]

Just a beautiful park! You find the most beautiful spots!

[@Leewilly440]

Great information Scott thanks so much for sharing. Your breakfast looked so good one of my favorite things to eat. Although all your food looks yummy. Any way great video. Thank you Scott 😀

[@backroadssonoma]

When my partner and I lived in our van we always camped close to the cities and never boondocked in the desert or on BLM land. We loved seeing new sights and hanging out at the beach or parks in the Northwest following the mild weather. It’s refreshing to hear your thoughts on Van life. I can’t wait to get back to that lifestyle 😊

[@islandgirl5472]

Aloha Scott - thank you for taking us on a nice walk through Howarth Park….

[@WeisserStolz1]

I absolutely look forward to u recording a video every Monday. Scott, you are an inspiration my friend. I certainly include you and your good health in my daily prayer. I thank you for your time in recording. Good day my friend.

[@sherried79]

It is the best way to cook eggs. It also allows you to peel the egg way easier too. I can't remember the science behind it now but it exists. Lol happy trails! Oh, I'll be moving into my van the end of June and I live in a college town so I doubt I find many places here but I travel for work up to an hour radius so I believe I can find places. There is also the horse camps but I can only stay up to 30 days for the year but there are 3 of them. We use to have a ton of places in the forest but they are obsolete now from abuse of course :(

[@DavidHuffTexas]

Very nice, even-handed review of an important topic. And yeah, you have a dry, low-key sense of humor that has thrown me a bit in the past ("ankle monitor" LOL) 😆

[@user-pd1bp2qn8x]

Thanks for sharing the info,,I love the yellow bird havanero,,specially on fish soup,,or most everything,,

[@dallastrujillo7540]

Been waiting for a new video! You’re my fav then Foresty then The Cat Lady Van.

[@christieelee]

I used to live in town and country many years ago when the name fit. Nice to see it's still as quaint.

[@ThatGirlLib]

Who’s saying the desert is the only place to park? That’s a good option if you have a hard time being stealth, limited on funds on gas to keep moving, or you’re in a non vanlife friendly city. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@Hiker_Mike]

Love that park, went there in Sept. While visiting the area. The parking was the only painful part. So much to do in that region, love it.

[@calvinmarshall1610]

Hi scott very good comparisons thanks for sharing. Also, you made my favorite meal hamburger on sourdough!! It's always nice to see you having that for dinner

[@Jeff-wb5rt]

I've been in my transit over 5 years so I like a variety of oregon, AZ , CA mobile living, great video Scott 😎

[@glennk.7348]

I’m glad you’re doing the 40+ minute videos! 🙂

[@StaticCamperVan]

To be honest, a while back I decided to simply let the videos be whatever length they end up being.

[@bratt_116]

It's a great idea !@@StaticCamperVan

[@agneskiesling2905]

You are so cute!+... ❤ how you explain what you are doing and why... instructive.....makes sense...

[@rayneday-trippin2554]

Very well said! Been in my van going on 3 years.i still work so stay in city mostly. Get out of town every chance I can

[@HolliHankins-xi9uu]

For it being crowded, I didn’t notice any other people in the video.😊 Beautiful area and thoughtful conversation.

[@StaticCamperVan]

On every vlog, I try my best to not record anyone else. Unfortunately, I did catch a few people in this episode.

[@Ton_Ginic]

thank you for this vlog !!!!!!!!!

[@vantravelingwithlaydeemae5167]

Once it stops raining I would like to bring Vanlife content to Lake Berryessa and Clearlake 😊 not too many Vanlife vids of those areas ❤

[@pd8505]

Really helpful. Thx

[@lindalangevin4505]

I agreee with you, I would rather be in the city or close to it. I would panic if I didn't have cell service. Have a good night!

[@robduncan599]

It's a interesting take on city v desert. You explained your reasoning very well, makes a lot of sense . Tks for your most excellent video film .

[@StaticCamperVan]

Thanks Rob

[@joanneculshaw6378]

I love your videos very relaxing

[@eugeniabernal5875]

Let’s not accuse others of giving “bad advice”. Your advice to live in the city might be bad advice to some, too. Let’s call it suggestions, sharing experiences, educating people of the possibilities. ❤

[@steveasher9239]

Put 303 protectant on your tires. It's very very good. I had the tire people put it on the inside of my tires when I had new ones mounted. and I put it on the outside. Makes a huge difference in the desert. I put it on all rubber and vinyl parts (like the dash and seals). Actually works.

[@StaticCamperVan]

Great to hear. I’d prefer to save the several hundred dollars in driving to the desert though. My tires wear much better up north here.

[@glennk.7348]

303 works great on my jeep wrangler bumpers and fenders!

[@SeattleBlythe]

I enjoy hearing your perspective about your life. I'm planning a few days in Victoria, British Columbia. I'll be going there without a car, which I like, since I'm an avid walker. I've had a hard time making up my mind this year on travels!

[@_dewinther]

Lol Thanks, great vid, great advice 💖💖💖

[@lady_kas7825]

Sir, you are the Nomad Bob Ross and I LOVE IT!!!

[@cdmbooks1493]

A really great video. Nothing like having all that nature surrounding you daily. Thanks, for the excursion.

[@rozswartzett180]

Egg salad open faced sandwich on toasted sourdough is pretty good. Tuna too.

[@ricksseniorlife]

Toast your bread, then spread half your egg salad on one side, and the other half on the other side, and eat it that way . No mess no fuss 😊

[@dallastrujillo7540]

I definitely know where to get coffee in Central and No Cal because of Static Camper! Thanks Scott! ☕️☕️☕️

[@micah_noel]

The desert has always been my least favorite of all of the climates. And even though I’ve always loved the forests, I never even considered trying to live there in my van for any extended period. I’m happy with the “normalcy” of living in the city and taking the occasional weekend camping trip. Not so different from the apartment life really.

[@plutoplatters]

The Carton of Cigarettes !!! OMGGGGGG.... Yep... it's so common how people " don't get it " .

[@jamieo8653]

Excellent vlog! Scott, you are a goddess cook and eat well! Why to some people want to tell other how they should run their lives? I am amazed at the cleanliness of the parks you take us to. I am from Gloucester, Ma and our parks are DUMPS! I am in construction and on a site down south. When going job to job, I stay in my extended cab truck. I enjoy it over a motel. Good Luck!🇺🇸

[@vantravelingwithlaydeemae5167]

Besides Bodega Bay and Point Reyes beach , Goat Rock Beach is my Favorite NorCali Beach 🏝️

[@tillygirl7450]

Stinson Beach out on the Pt. Reyes National Seashore is beautiful too. And you can walk from the parking lot to the tiny one street town and get a nice soft ice cream too. You know there’s just too many to mention for the San Francisco Bay Area beaches- LOTS of choices (as Scott was saying). Tennessee Valley trail from the parking lot down to the beach is a nice long walk (20-30 minutes). There’s even a resident Bobcat who sometimes sits on the side of the trail and appears to love being photographed. 😊 This trail is very popular because it’s so beautiful , it’s best not to go mid-day. But there’s SO many trails in Tennessee Valley that you don’t have to park in the parking lot. It does have 2 bathrooms and last time I went there has been no charge for parking or bathrooms.😊 You really can’t go wrong with any of the beaches along Rte. 1 in the San Francisco Bay Area. 😎😊

[@vantravelingwithlaydeemae5167]

I’m actually from the S.F. area so I’m aware of the many beaches 😊❤

[@vantravelingwithlaydeemae5167]

But I get what you’re saying 😌☺️

[@millie8399]

Excellent video! Thank you for exploring the choices and variety of van living. Although I don't live in my vehicle, I imagine if I did, I would be a small city dweller as I am now for the reasons you mentioned. Also, Thanks for recommending Olympia Coffee Roasters in one of your previous videos. I visited Olympia and had a coffee and wow was it good! I also really enjoyed Olympia and the beautiful parks on the sound. What a treat!

[@StaticCamperVan]

Nice to hear. Thank you.

[@jon8062]

You are doing great ! Enjoy your chill videos ..being in Tokyo now, it's impossible to avoid people😂obviously .. I totally get your feeling of the pros/cons of being around alot of people. At times it can be overwhelming but it's also good to interact from time to time. Safe travels

[@martykong3592]

:) THANKS MUCH for sharing and you are so right, the hype to park in the Desert is not for everyone. Your choice seems to be a much better choice, and much better weather it seems. ALL the BEST and ENJOY, more coffee :) Cheers from Upper Left! :)

[@JacQui-nice2meetU]

I totally agree with you and you always cook such yummy food😊