Episode III | Return to the Arctic: Winter Vanlife Expedition | Living The Van Life

[@kelRGo]

What experience do you have with a camera/film work prior to van life? I really appreciate you presenting with the footage and the blend of the audio queues

[@LivingTheVanLife]

I first picked up a video camera in 1998 and began teaching myself how to shoot and edit as a hobby. In 2008 I picked up still photography and lost interest in video completely. Still photography taught me the most about how to shoot cameras, capture light and compose a shot. Then in 2011 I decided to quit my career in the construction industry and pursue photography as a career. And that’s why I started living in my van. Since then, I have traveled the world shooting content commercially for the likes of Triumph Motorcycles, Harley Davidson, Indian Motorcycles, Ducati etc. in the mean time I had started my Living The Van Life KZbin channel purely just for fun. Didn’t tell a single soul about it. Just put it out there for the youtube world to discover. In 2018 I shut the film production company down in order to focus full time on this KZbin channel

[@briankaplan1482]

You definitely make awesome videos. You’re lucky you get to afford a 150k vehicle and not have to live the norm. Unfortunately it’s out of reach for most. Be thankful.

[@zozemasanita8199]

Another totally super awesome one.

[@Mike-gg1mv]

@@briankaplan1482 correction, he isn’t lucky, he made shit happen through dedication, desire, drive, and focus on a goal. Mindset will hold you back or make it happen.

[@hammerT2997]

​@@LivingTheVanLifethat's f'n awesome man!!! I've got a cool Winnie tonka truck that I need a smaller LTVL sticker for. What's the smallest you have brother??

[@StephenSkoutas]

I can't be the only one who watches Chad's videos and is left thinking "What the heck am I doing with my life?" Seriously, week after week it's just incredible cinematic, photographic, and post-edit / production efforts in the most amazing and surreal landscapes, wonderfully narrated from the heart. Not much else I can say other than "Thank you, Chad."

[@Marnizzle2.0]

Cannot agree more

[@user-ed7on9vd7y]

Not everyone has the the funds to live life like that. Most of us have crappy lives.😒

[@TheBrandonn]

this was the channel that made me realize I want to live in a van or a vehicle of some sort.

[@jmarkd59]

My sentiments exactly! Thanks, Stephen. And thanks, Chad! Just remarkable work.

[@frankiez7414]

yes I think that too and keep making excuses not to do something like this. I used to explore before my son came along but keep making excuses about not wanting to leave without him because when we do go away we have just the best time and without him I get very lonely.

[@erikhy]

The only bad part of this video was that it ended. I feel like I'm riding along with you experiencing the magnificence, the cold, the unexpectedness and the rhythm of the road. Watching this under the grey skies of western Washington brought me that excitement of finding what's around the bend in a way that few other videographers I've watched have done. Truly, you reach out and touch so many of us with your hard work and joy of life. Bravo.

[@LivingTheVanLife]

Wow! Those are some incredibly kind words. And I appreciate them very much. Thanks for being part of the channel.

[@berylorchowski8118]

Me too!!❤❤

[@berylorchowski8118]

@@LivingTheVanLifeI really love watching your videos. I feel like I’m traveling right along with you. The Northern light was spectacular. Thank you for sharing. May God truly blessed you and protect you always.

[@stephanelaurent8470]

Bonjour Chad , ici en france je regarde tes aventures , surtout celles dans le froid et la neige . Me❤rci

[@jfx863]

​@@LivingTheVanLifebro I really love this channel. Inspires me to go on a solo adventure of my own. Awesome work🙏

[@CarlDavison]

The videography in this series is award worthy, by far the best van-life series ever.

[@TheSpiikeisme]

I dunno Shaun from the story till now would give him his run for his money. Both extremely talented drone pilots for sure!

[@wendywitzig119]

Ever

[@OverlandCitrus]

OMG Chad as a retired Photographer what a sight to see the Northern Lights your images were top notch watching your videos on this adventure is pure pleasure Thank you for bringing us along

[@LivingTheVanLife]

Wow, thanks!

[@ikerteuscher]

Chad puts every other Van Life Channel to shame (with all due respect to every channel, many of whom are great and I admire) But the videography and storytelling in all his work is just superb. The northern lights sequence out of this world. Cant wait to see the next episode.

[@warbirdwf]

I can't think of any other KZbin channel that exceeds Chads filming and editing. The pictures of northern lights were magnificent. Your music selection for each scene or segment seems to always be perfect as well.

[@TheBrandonn]

Jonna Jinton

[@davidparise4517]

I am so appreciative of you bringing this video to all of us! I am 61 years old and I know that I would never get up there to were you're at. So this is such a blessing for someone like me to view GOD's beautiful work for us. Thank you, Chad!!!!! I am a big fan of your channel!

[@wandervan2648]

Your videography is like no other. I always walk away in awe of the sights and feel like I'm right there with you! Absolutely love this series and can't wait to see what you do in the future.

[@LivingTheVanLife]

Thanks for watching!

[@Lt184]

OMG, sir those pictures of the van/sky that night viewing the northern lights are beyond words, I saw this once when I was 16yrs old and even at that age I knew it was a special thing. Some day I truly hope to have the honor to witness such beauty again out in a remote place with our van…. Even taken away all the things you’ve made happen from your channel bar any of it, if all you could do is look back and have moments like that only you won the Lotto of Life…!

[@LivingTheVanLife]

I really appreciate your kind words. Thanks for watching

[@ContrarianTerra]

Well, you've done it again. You always seem to be in the right place at the right time. Your content is National Geographic quality without the full crew. You are the entire crew! I love seeing the world through your eyes. Spectacular!

[@Vangriff]

Ladies and Gentlemen Boys and Girls, what a series and more coming. Thanks Chad

[@peggyjones392]

What a treat to see your time lapse of the Aurora! Thank you so much.

[@PsalmS-vi8zl]

The scenery is absolutely breathtaking. Looking forward to continuing the journey with you - thanks for taking us along.

[@sharonjohnsonart]

Hello, Chad! You did it again with these amazing scenes. You stay safe and warm. And keep on trucking! 🙏🏾❤️🚐

[@everythingautomotiveeta5839]

My god i love these artic series. I literally watched the last one about 15 times and the 3 parts individually 5 each. Your delivering this year too!

[@RobbieJJ81]

I was tearing up as you were talking about the Aurora. I can't wait to see it myself someday. Thank you, Chad for sharing the beauty of your journey. It is magical. 💗

[@rachfish]

This is not a criticism, at all, of last year's trip to Tuktoyaktuk, but I am really enjoying the leisurely pace of this trip. Unscheduled detour to the left, the marine highway ferry, the u-turn for the lynx last video. ❤

[@tomcripps7229]

Yes it was good to see you be able to kick back a bit, although I enjoyed the ominous pace of the last arctic adventure. It gets better all the time.

[@hobosapienskimohman]

as a Finn arctic weather is nothing new but I really appreciate the amout of work you put into these videos. It is not easy operate in harsh conditions. I also do like your style of cinematography and editing. Really smooth, sound design is good and the story goes just in right speed.

[@TheWoodensong]

I loved your “capture” of the Aurora Borealis…I lived in Alaska (Aleutian Islands) for a couple of years while I was in the Navy, then a few years later I lived in Maine and worked as a Navy Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) Instructor. During those years, I saw my fair share of “sightings”, as well as during Cold Weather Medicine and Winter Mountain Warfare training in the High Sierra of Northern California, and Minnesota/Wisconsin. There is nothing quite like the Northern Lights…they haunt one’s soul and never fail to fill one’s entire body with its magical energy! Back in the old days (‘70s & ‘80s), when I was in the North Country, we didn’t have the luxury of all the electronic devices of today where we could capture of theses glowing heavenly bodies. Thanks for all that you do, for those, who can’t. Stay safe and wild and always travel well. ~ ~ “Ol’ Scooter” in East Texas.

[@karennaatz3833]

Love these Artic videos. This one though...WOW! My favorite thus far! Those Northern Lights, breathtaking! You have some incredible talent putting these videos together.

[@alexanderweaver7066]

Chad, what an amazingly epic adventure!! Seeing the Aurora Borealis above your Sprinter Van was awesome. Not only are your adventures fun to watch, but they are also educational, and your narration of van parts and function are really helpful to us van lifers. I live and travel in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van (two years as of 9/1/2023), and at 76, I wish I had done this much sooner. Exploring our country's beauty, meeting incredible people, and trying new foods and cuisines has been amazing. Spaghetti is my favorite comfort food, and I make my sauce from scratch as well. I love to cook and experiment as I travel. Thirty thousand miles to date and many more miles to go.

[@fionahealy1171]

Breathtaking scenery and stunning footage. Chad, your film making skills are outstanding. Highly addictive viewing ❤

[@joshybrisby]

You were looking for adventure, and you found it. I raise my glass to you sir.

[@Jak3sta22]

This is just unbelievable. Man what I would give… I have a Mazda CX9 SUV that I am doing a VERY minimal convert on right now to be able to camp in/live in for more extended periods. I really want this life so bad!! The freedom, the exploration, and just seeing what this World has to offer. I would love to be able to get a van… holy crap they are expensive!!! I am broke as all hell right now… but I have decided to go for it! One week from today I am out of my apartment. I am going to try it out in the SUV for a while and see if I like it/can make it work until I can upgrade. If not… can always go back to apartment life. I am doing DoorDash and part time restaurant gigs to save up money while I travel in between. Wish me luck…. I will need it!! You along with some other great KZbin channels have inspired me to take the leap.

[@JDLR956]

From vast deserts to endless snowy mountains, your travels are beyond radical. Thank you for sharing these corners of paradise with the rest of us.

[@TenTonsofBuns]

That sequence with the aurora borealis was absolutely epic 💥 I especially like the part in the time-lapse where, for a moment, it spanned the entire sky in a sort of whiplash motion. Super cool!

[@informedcitizen8687]

Another truly magnificent video. Ill never get to experience an adventure like you're taking, but watching and living vicariously through your posts is enough for me. Thank you for all your hard work and talent. I look forward to watching your adventures as soon as you post.

[@SK-vk7gv]

Hi Chad...i simply have no words. I have been following since so many years..you just go one notch up every time. Just want to say you thank you for showing us the heavenly planet earth.

[@shalemraju9951]

Surreal experience. Such an amazing content. You never disappointed us Chad. Your footage, drone shots, bum and editing are always top notch. ❤❤❤. But I missed one thing was your cooking. Like the way you cook outside.

[@finnneganfox]

These videos are something truly special and i love to immerse myself into these beautiful shots and scenery when im going through rough stuff, it feels straight up therapeutic. I've lived in north-eastern Finland all my life and i've never had the privilege of witnessing the northern lights but even watching them on a video its always awe-inspiring and must be quite humbling to experience in person. Maybe one day i'll have that privilege as well. Thank you very much Chad.

[@christopherharris6005]

Awesome video as always Chad. This series has been so spectacular the Arctic is so a amazing and spectacular place and the way you film the beauty of this adventure is so epic can't wait for the next episode.

[@mmagbee]

What I like most about this chapter, is there were no other vehicles on the road during his trip

[@rolandnyiregyhazki378]

Dear Chad! You gave us an insight into your experiences in winter wonderland through another great video. Throughout the scenes where you showed us timelapse footage of the breathtakingly beautiful Northern Lights, I was thinking, I don't want the "Return to the Arctic" series to end. I'm sure that just like the episodes from your previous adventure, I'll be rewatching these ones many times. I just can't get enough of them! Thank you for all the work you put into making these videos! Every single episode fascinates me. I'm excited for the next one!!!

[@iceman17a69]

I'm new to your channel, but after the first two episodes covering your trip, I'm hooked. I can't wait til you drop a new episode each Saturday. This trip is on my bucket when I retire next December. Hopefully, I can learn some rips and tricks of van life through your videos. Safe travels wherever you go and a great holiday season.....

[@Roadghost88]

Another great, fun episode Chad. The Aurora is always spectacular to see, and the vast, beautiful emptiness of the Arctic in winter is a wonder to behold. You're doing a great job capturing it.

[@babblekoka]

Watched the whole series last year. Forwarded to my friends and they just glued to the previous one. Now this year is even bigger. Love the camera work there. Love and respect 🫡 stay warm brother and God bless

[@svenhodaka9145]

Those Northern lights! It’s like an out of world experience. Spectacular images. Great work capturing it for us to enjoy. 😁 Thanks a bunch!

[@Russellsouthey]

WOW WOW WOW! What an astonishing experience! I was in tears watching the aurora. Thank you for sharing this epic experience.

[@Vanmattdamn]

I look forward to you getting the sticker out with the northern lights. Love that you got to see the reds, blues and purples. You can’t explain how beautiful they are in person. Mind blowing. Love the series.

[@terriquotskuyva4594]

I love these videos!!! It’s so amazing how you capture the landscapes and your whole journey through your travels. I love it!!!

[@beejel9628]

Something about being out in the extreme cold but a fire or in your case the van can still keep things warm is just so satisfying can’t even explain it I know some people know what I’m talking about. Awesome videos

[@larrymiller2370]

Thank you once again for letting me & others ride along on this amazing journey. Absolutely love it the trip of a life time for you & for me as i'll never do it & see those Northern Light's in person. Your do a fantastic job on you videos and i always can't wait till the next ride along. A dream that will never happen for me. Stay warm & safe guy & enjoy every minute of it while your there & we only get 1 trip in life.

[@marcusoutdoors4999]

Fantastic job Chad. Truly inspiring. In fact it’s hard to find the superlatives to describe your great work in capturing your adventures and stunning landscapes

[@Astra8676]

The green glow of Aurora lights was spectacular, and the music made it very eerie, I felt as if I was on another planet. Thank for sharing the experience!!!

[@sherishelby2024]

I am watching your Arctic Episodes. This third one it’s just amazing. With the mountains and the aurora borealis, it’s just awesome what you’re seeing!! I am definitely looking forward to the rest of your episodes. Thank you for sharing this!!

[@andyfreer8463]

Wow that northern lights is just breath taking photos amazing love it

[@judyeuller7602]

I have no words for what I'm feeling after watching this amazing video. Thanks so very much for sharing your trek with us.

[@MarioLoco03]

"It doesnt matter what day it is, It doesnt matter what time it is." Mannnn, I wish I could feel that. The day to day grind really getting me down lately. Would love to just forget for awhile. Awesome video man.

[@jackmeyers40]

Way, way ..next level time lapse and thank you for sharing it. My wife usually doesn't like #vanlife videos that I watch but I think after I show her this one .She will.

[@conniek3354]

Wow! Your photography and the choice of music is fantastic. You have outdone yourself with this one Chad. Thank you for taking me along! Great job! Looking forward to the next episode. ❤😊

[@kenpurnell4798]

Wow! All I can say is amazing. The drone shots immerse you into the landscape which is stunning. What a phenomenal vlog - I will never experience anything like this in person so a very big thankyou for bringing this part of the world to me. Stay safe.

[@dannyhockemeyer9027]

Your cinematography is without question some of the best I've ever seen Chad! Well done my friend!

[@itsfilipd]

Amazing Views!!! I am in awe. Mother Nature is awesome!!! Thank you for showing it to us!!!

[@TuomoUusitupa]

Even I have seen Aurora lights over 40 years but every time they are so amazing

[@zilvinas82]

Like a thousand souls dancing in the sky, amazing... All trip so cool, so easy to watch, it's pure joy to watch these videos ❤️ Happy Christmas to everyone 🎄🎁

[@lda7473]

Thanks for being such a PIONEER in doing all of this to test the limits on one's journey into the unknown cold season, specially in AK. Your experience/wisdom will empower ppl to take on future endeavors w/ the same journey. Much Love & LIGHT, brother. Fan from CA.

[@vagdude6397]

Chad, this is unreal…. Well done is all I can say❤your father would be so proud of you. Cheers brother.

[@ChrisKay-dd3zy]

Chad, those Northern lights were beyond amazing! THANK YOU for sharing with the rest of us!!

[@GeminiJourney1111]

Holy WOW!!!…amazing footage!! So moved by those Northern Lights-tears fell! For in person must have been everything you said, experienced and more..dancing lights what a delight..💗✨

[@TonyGeneseo]

It’s an amazing thing to experience and makes anyone realize we’re just observers along for the ride !

[@paulz197]

Just watched on a 65in. 4k tv with headphones. Chad I was blown away, keep up the excellent work.

[@SridharSaraf]

OMG 😳, I am blown away watching the timelapse of the aurora borealis/northern lights. Thank you for sharing! 🙏

[@mikeprodanov6765]

Wow Chad.... Another captivating episode! Thank you for sharing this trip!

[@pnwvanlife]

Stickers.... sitckers.... Yaaawwwnnnn.... Sticker.... 😂😂😂😂

[@chod54]

Oh my, you produce the most incredible videos to watch. They are by far better than anything I have ever seen on any TV or KZbin channels. I sit here with covid for over a week and when I saw your 3 third video of this series pop up on my KZbin I was like got to stop being ill and time to be inspired. All the best to you and now time for me to plan my trip to Scotland in winter, as I live in the south of the UK.

[@user-yr5zx7wp2l]

Chad man, yr cinematography, editing, content and narration are all quite simlply stunning. Thank you for sharing yr adventures with us, we all are as I am truly grateful. Peace out man n keep on trucking........

[@rover5788]

Chad! This is the most stunning video I have ever seen! Wow! I have no words to express my gratitude to you! Thank you man, you're amazing!

[@charlesnaretta5205]

Chad, excellent footage!! You have the best creative videos on you tube for sure!! Thanks for the video! 😊

[@georgecorreia5314]

Outstanding mind-blowing fantastic video byfar the best film editing on KZbin thank you for the video

[@lefort76]

This is absolutely Amazing! Very glad you took that turn to Alaska. I can see your video on the next Super Bow half time show commercials. Mercedes Benz will be knocking your window pretty soon! 🙌 Thank you for sharing this beautiful moments Chad. You do an outstanding job. Much respect! Two thumbs way up.

[@tudorwest4321]

could watch all day Chad,fantastic scenery and you taking us along magic

[@berilmurray9879]

Incredible video again Chad!! I sit in total silence when watching your videos, totally soaking it all up. Thankyou so much for sharing!! I am currently doing up a small 23 foot motorhome (will be complete by mid to late February), so will buy some stickers and gear then. Definitely want to have your stickers on board. Again, thanks for transporting me into your adventures.😊

[@californialady349]

Absolutely stunning! Your photography is unmatched and I’m grateful to be able to see this through your eyes Thank you!

[@isabelmendi3973]

Spectacular, what a gift well earned. Stay safe out there Chad. Just amazing.

[@digilux4017]

you are in a league of your own. Beautiful cinematography eye for good pictures, and the storyline is solid. Bravo!

[@kirileman]

Pure gold! Instant subscribe. Thank you so much for your videos.

[@janelbrady5342]

Gosh, I’ve been looking forward to each part! It’s amazing and can’t wait for the next adventure. And just like that it goes by so fast… keep on trucking peace ✌

[@forgedinfire8137]

Look at what this guy films...alone, its incredible

[@kevinmartin-uv1rm]

Spectacular video footage, brilliant, glad I watched the video,keep up the good work, you lucky man👌

[@markbennett6367]

That was a wonderful series Chad, and thank you for sharing your journey with us.. The Aurora photographs are mind blowing...!!

[@larrymoore4223]

Absolutely stunning, incredible view of the Northern Lights. Thank you so much for sharing that with us. Amazing!!

[@superh2923]

Glory to God!!! I sincerely believe that God did that light show just for you Chad!!

[@mladetto7453]

Awesome. I'm sitting in my Class-B FORD Transit with my Dog, in my driveway, watching this video and dreaming of having the time to make great treks. Thanks for all of the effort you put into these.

[@elsestelema6273]

Ohh WOW WOW that is the very best I have ever seen of the northern lights!❤️❤️❤️

[@CamGuerilla]

I spent the first few years of my life growing up right on the border between the Yukon and BC on the Haines highway. My father worked as an operator on a pipeline that used to supply military bases up in Fairbanks with fuel during the cold war. In those days, the highway was only plowed out periodically in the winter. The snow blowers would come through because it would be too deep for snow plows, and anyone who wanted out to go shopping or whatever would form a convoy behind them and then a couple days later another convoy would form behind a snowblower to get back home.

[@trekfortruth2841]

Hey...do you have stickers??? 😂 All seriousness...that time-lapse is unbelievable!

[@FerroMagnetar]

Marvelous cinematography. I've not seen a better, single-operated, channel. Makes one feel as if they're in a movie theater.

[@shuttermonkee]

This might be my favorite episode and I've probably seen most all of them. The magnitude and awesomeness of the aurora was beyond comprehension. I liked the hunkering down in the van. My Sprinter is also my cozy fort. I think the van looks pretty cool with its black engine pajamas too.

[@cslay06]

Love it dude! I appreciate your emotion talking about the northern lights. We can see it in your face when you talked about it. So glad you had that cool experience. Maybe someday I'll get up there. Thanks for the epic content, brother.

[@CellasChariot]

Got freakin' chills not just once but thrice...hair on my arms was literally standing up and not from the cold here in NE Wisconsin Lakeshore...from the breathtaking views you captured Chad. Keep on truckin' my friend! xoxo Cella & Sugar

[@robclipsham33]

Hi Chad, SUBLIME! dude. What a road trip, and to see the profound effect the northern lights had on you was very special! Keep the faith! Robbie

[@michaelschmock6739]

Amazing how long I've followed you. I want to say at least 12 years. Through multiple vans it was cool to see how you improved. Rather it be in video quality or your actual equipment in your vans. Always interesting. Keep up the great work.

[@finbarstadt7213]

What I find incredible is that in the back of beyond roads are largely free of snow and driveable. Over here in England we have half an inch of snow and the country grinds to a halt.

[@rvboondocker2559]

Yup. The first time I saw the Aurora, I cried.

[@susiedennis1463]

OMGOODNESS - Congratulations on your sensational innovation and art genius 👏 I am sitting here in pure awe after watching this

[@michaelpellegrino3220]

You look genuinely happy. Glad you're doing what you are meant to. And another fantastic video!

[@emmaharce8938]

Wow this is so awesome. Thank you for sharing and letting us come along for the ride. I had goosebumps watching the northern lights. Will be rewatching this episode over and over for sure!

[@mayjan74]

I loved that cardboard hack you came up with last time 😂 I legit did. The aurora borealis was stunning. I hope to see it myself some day.

[@rod7434]

LTVVL! Living the Vicarious Van Life…love your travels, story telling, and videography!