#vanlife

[@cloudsrain8753]

To this couple bravo for your honesty.

[@gerrylane3570]

Thankyou for a real account of van life. Seems like many of van life docs...it's all smiles, love, amazing experiences...basically fake, but this I think is more the reality of van life living showing the negative and the positive.

[@DorothyGTyas]

Ditto that....🍃❣🍃

[@nonyabizness.original]

vanlife vids aren't exactly fake, because we vandwellers do have amazing experiences... youtubers just post the good stuff, which (kinda) makes sense- who wants to endlessly watch boring days? i guess like those (weird) people who post (weirdly popular) pics of their food on instagram, but of course don't post their randomly routine day leading up to the meal.

[@ThingsAboutMusic]

I disagree that his is REAL van life. They choose to stay in weather conditions they weren't ready for. The major part of a Class B motorhome is that you can move....like go south for winter or west to get out of rain storm......

[@Jordcurious]

As someone who is considering this lifestyle in the future, it was very refreshing and informative to see all of the non-instagram moments of van dwelling. Thanks

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!! We're glad it was helpful. Despite the "realistic" view, it's still very worth it :)

[@JonathanLong]

kellowjo As a van dweller myself, its not bad at all, i used to have a tiny bed, but now i have a queen size and this life is great, i have huge back windows that are tinted to the point no one can see inside unless they get extremely close

[@JonathanLong]

Its honestly fun watching people be idiots at night

[@gigarex2016]

Van life or any RV living isn't for everyone. I think it comes down to what the individuals make of the lifestyle. I look forward to living in a Class B van in the future.

[@TheHermitHacker]

@@gigarex2016 I'm going to this lifestyle this year. Already have the van.

[@NinoNlkkl]

if this video was 10 hours long, I would've watched it all the way.

[@okmmauh]

Joseon In Good photography. I enjoyed the rhythm of their comments. I like van life contentment wanting less. Making do with what is available

[@christywright5439]

Joseon In Me too. Really fascinating.

[@andreamoscoso4065]

Joseon In Lol I would have definitely come back to it several times to finish watching. Definitely a lovely video.

[@splitpierre]

truth, very good content and insight, thanks!

[@gumbynomad]

nino nikki right? I thought “ok, this has been like 15 minutes max”, and then I realized that it was over

[@BernadetteSky]

I have been looking for REAL experiences living like this, or even Tiny Houses. So many people seem to just gloss over a lot of the problems. This couple gets along so well, and have navigated their lives from private to public in a really genuine and honest way. Living a nomadic life or a public one can be really hard. I appreciate them talking about the stigma they experience even though they are not poor and are working. Thanks.

[@findingsimon]

Thanks Sarah! That's really what we're aiming to do. We get some hate because we talk about the down falls of van life, so I see why some van lifers only talk about the good stuff. It's a way to defend their choices

[@Kikinahm]

+Shelby and Simon - what are your Instagram, Twitter and Facebook handles? so that I may follow you! :)

[@findingsimon]

We are @shelbyandsimon on all social media :D

[@findingsimon]

We are "Shelby and Simon photography" on Facebook

[@Kikinahm]

Awesome! Thanks so much! ;)

[@Tipperary757]

Thanks very much, Shelby and Simon. I appreciated the honesty and thoughtfulness to understand the journey (van) within a journey (mold, cold, space) within a journey (as a couple) within a journey (public/private space).

[@rawlawgirl]

Truly likeable and interesting couple. Very introspective. "People who always have to take a vacation from their life". Profound statement. I rarely take vacations and colleagues think "I" am sad. Truth is, I have designed my every day life in such a way that it is joyful and relaxing although I work a professional 9-5 job. When I do take time off from the office, I lay around the house or meet up with friends for Vegan pizza and so much laughter that my belly hurts. Not a vacation, but an extension of my day to day life! This video made me enjoy and value my simple life more. Most important, this video reminded me NOT to label or judge the next van people I see as homeless or those with "criminal intent". You never really know someone else's story unless you take time to talk with them and even then you get only a verbal glimpse of their soul. Thank you for such a profound video. It deserves far more views, but because it is the "other side" of "glamping", maybe there are less views.

[@metusbatmanv4399]

+Raw LawGirl Shut the fuck up about your vegan pizza, moron.

[@rawlawgirl]

MetusBatman V4 Wow, what a lovely person you must be. Thank you for such a sweet and clearly well thought out response.

[@metusbatmanv4399]

Raw LawGirl You're welcome, moron.

[@rawlawgirl]

MetusBatman V4 Your kindness is overwhelming. Thank you for such thoughtful words.

[@metusbatmanv4399]

Raw LawGirl You're welcome, moron.

[@Ceeboyforlife]

Personally, serving in the Navy for 5 years, forced to sleep in a twin bed with 6" of distance in front of you while on your back, storage underneath, and a small locker I completely understand. I believe the van is a huge step up from the living conditions of sailor forced to live on a boat with very, very minimal space for 6 to 9 months. What helped me get through it was not the avoidance of being bored, long drives, or the difference from our previous cushy life, but accepting the circumstances as it being our life; that this is what we are paid to do. Typically, a sailor can have long hard stressful lives day to day at sea, so sleeping in a bed at the end of the night, despite its size, tends to be very rewarding. I plan on living out of a van at the beginning of 2017 and I can't wait! I don't care to travel right now, I just want to save money, get a extra job and make more faster, then travel. I don't think I'll ever buy a house. I don't like traditional living like rent and mortgages. I want to put away money for retirement, I can afford it now. I want to buy and own a car, cash. I want to buy and keep my laptop and not have to sell it during tough times.I want to buy a heavy duty truck, a toy hauler and live life on the road unanchored. These videos are very inspirational.

[@stanky6261973]

Ceeboy ForLife Thank you for your service. God bless you and your family, travel safely.

[@IRDeezlSmoke]

Awesome video. Several really mature and thoughtful comments were made. I especially like the one toward the end about making a life that you have to take a vacation from. I see that far too often today.

[@findingsimon]

Thank you :)

[@lynnrosa8731]

+IRDeezlSmoke i agree completely. WOW you guys made my day!! amazingly insightful .... grass always looks greener wherever we are not. STUFF- a - polis !! funny!

[@bookbakery]

This is the best video I have ever seen on van life, and I have watched a lot. I love your perseverance. Being happy with yourself is a great way to end the video. Your humor is the best!!!! Thank you very much for making this video and sharing your experiences.

[@DreamingCatStudio]

Thanks for this peek into van life! It's refreshing to hear the ups and downs, and their attitude of "here's all the stuff we're learning."

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!!!!!

[@staceyw5187]

I'll always be a house dweller. But I think you guys are awesome. And awesome as a couple. Good humans. And a dog. :)

[@RitaBatchley]

I liked this candid look into the reality of van life. Shelby & Simon rocked it! They prove, once again, that happiness is an inside job. Life is rendered to its most critical components when there is no place to hide. Bravo to both of you for following your bliss and finding your truth.

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!!!

[@rodimorel6041]

...rita..what a deep words? ..se siente muy. profundo. ..rodi

[@rodimorel6041]

...rita..what a deep words? ..se siente muy. profundo. ..rodi

[@pamelaroy1880]

I want u guys to know that this video is one of these best I've seen on living the van life, I just loved it. I especially love the way u guys love and respect your dog, he's a good good boy 😊, I love dogs. so what are u guys doing now? are y'all sticking with it? y'all go thru some bad times but thats anywhere in life, right? I envy the fact that y'all are doing this, be gratefull that y'all are ABLE to do what ur doing , making great and memorable memory's. wow what I wouldn't give. I own a three bedroom home and I want so bad to get out from under this load and live like y'all are living, but due to health issues I'm not able to. again, enjoyed the video alot, loved it. so make the most of it u guy, good and bad, ENJOY LIFE AND LOVE GOD

[@kayleeolivern4571]

so so so beautiful, they have inspired me so much. i get a little giddy and start daydreaming about the day when i buy my own van. Thanks, Kirsten !

[@suerakes]

You guys are so awesome. Love your depth of thought and genuine honesty!!

[@georgieocasio1764]

Love the video, love the lifestyle, life without hardships is boring,because you don't get to enjoy the success and triumphs of overcoming them!

[@rufuswoods6330]

Thank u both for being honest and awesome. God bless you both. Y'all are so loving to each other. Cherish what you both have

[@sarahy5540]

Great video and so informative about the non-idealistic aspects of #vanlife. I've been getting caught up in the romanticism of living life on the road via instagram, youtube, etc. so appreciate learning about the sometimes difficult realities of living in a van. Thank you for making the video and thanks to Shelby and Simon for sharing your lives with us!

[@404now]

this was a great video. Thank you. This was very entertaining and eye opening. I guess it's just not all fun and games. But it does look like an experience.

[@jackjune156]

Whenever I get the urge to join the van life or live on the road, I just watch this again to cure myself Thank you for your honesty, and sharing

[@findingsimon]

Hahahaha we'd still do it again, even though there's some bad stuff!

[@jackjune156]

I really was kidding. I do have the yearning to get on the road one of these days and you help me to keep it real. Thank you

[@blasco313]

Hi Shelby and Simon. Loved this video. We've got an off road van and have owned others. Never lived in one long term but have camped in them quite a bit - including some extended stealth camping. Couple things just to help... You can get a 12 volt mini semi conductor dehumidifier roughly the size of seven DVDs for like $30 US off ebay or Amazon. Most of the little ones sized for a van or small rv have a little tank you need to empty pretty often, but by drilling a small hole in the tank and inserting a piece of fish tank hose and you can let it drain down your sink. Outdoor construction silicon from Home Depot for about $10 a large tube is made to fix leaks much more reliably than the as-seen-on-tv spray sealer stuff. Larger, stackable Tuperware type totes are great for storage and organization, keep stuff dry, clean and safe and their mobility is a big plus allowing you to transition your space at will. It's a popular method in Japan where apartments are commonly tiny. A small, light weight box trailer will rob you of (at most) one mile per gallon and you can put a LOT of stuff in them to make more room. You could do similar bolting a receiver hitch under the front bumper, buying a trailer hitch shelf unit and tying down some large plastic totes or a couple foot lockers. A very large tarp attached with silicon sealed bolts to the roof, rolled up with a couple already attached tent poles and stakes makes a HUGE covered outdoor area in about three minutes. With a big enough tarp it'll have sides too. Takes maybe five minutes to roll it back up by hand and tie it neatly for travel. If you're handy you can make it look pretty professional so as not to irk the sensibilities of the neighbors. Driving at night allows for sleeping during the day when most people would never guess there's anyone in that parked van at Walmart or similar. I've found with stealth urban camping going to the night shift bypasses basically all security/disturbance issues. Anyway, keep at it at least till it's easy and no longer presents real challenges or frustrations. That's how you'll know you've grown enough by this lifestyle, when there's less difficulty and no big frustration when difficulty comes. Also one more tip: You're photographers so do the obvious and take pics everywhere. There may be a coffee table book in the future - or ten of them. KZbin videos and blogs are cool, but the rich who eschew you buy a lot of coffee table books. Imagine "McDonald's of North America," or "Public Restrooms of North America," or "Jerks Who Wrinkled Their Noses At Us." Use your imagination. The world just needs more counter culture coffee table books. God bless and have fun!

[@myadventureoutdoors]

I really enjoyed this video. This was a story well told. I liked their honesty and I felt like we were friends by the end of the video.

[@cheriestenzel9407]

Adventure Outdoors mm,,,

[@Kilkenny1923]

Actually, they broke up.

@PeteM: I am kinda glad. She seems super annoying, and haircut aside, I think he could find much better. Jmho

[@ArmageddonAfterparty]

@esteban it isn't big brother, stuff your judgement.

[@causeeffect7624]

@@Kilkenny1923 noooo, too much time together in such a small space?

[@HalkerVeil]

This was great. Thanks for showing the reality of all this. Gives people a real sense of what to expect and less disappointment. That only helps the lifestyle.

[@nasanction]

Back in the day, oh I guess about 35 years ago, I lived in a van for a couple years. The hardest thing back then was communication. There was no WiFi or internet for that matter. Cell phones were big expensive things reserved for the rich. I did odd jobs when I could find them, and scraped metal to fill the gaps. I was alone and found it to be difficult. I had way less then these travelers, but some how I always managed to get by with what I had. In ways I miss that life style, but at my age now I don't think I would try it again unless I had too... Good video. ;)

[@findingsimon]

+nasanction we meet a lot on the road in the same shoes you were 35 years ago, we feel like we're way overdoing it with all our gadgets and planning. It's a reminder to take it easy with all the gadgets and extras we don't necessarily need

[@nasanction]

Shelby and Simon I think you should take advantage of whats available to you. I was forced into my van with little warning much like the homeless are often forced into there situation. I think you guys are very smart and have created a much better environment for van living. I really enjoyed your video and I wish you much happiness. ;)

[@katanaburner]

I think these two plus their dog made this work really well. Very nice and keep on rollin'.

[@tech9iner]

Thanks thanks for sharing this couples #vanlife experiences Kirsten! Those two are great in so many ways. Their willingly, and honestly shared travel log (and before) was a beautiful mix that included all the challenges, yet was frequently hilarious too. If these two ’yutes' pass through #LasVegas, or #LA, or my 3rd home venue of #SanFrancisco again.. Starbucks (and/or a meal) is on me! 👍👏🍜🍲🍝🍕😺

[@Mr.Wagyu.]

What a great honest story. Very cool, didn't expect to watch it all but I enjoyed it more than I thought I would had. Take care

[@chasingsimpledreams]

Kirsten, thank you so much for putting together this extended video on them. I remember seeing one earlier on the Exploring Alternatives channel from Mat and Danielle and they are just such a real couple, just like Mat and Danielle. My brother and sister in law also travel in a van (Slow Car Fast House) and like these folks, they don't sugar coat how the life actually is in reality. I loved how they were so open and honest about the stuff that can really drive you completely nuts when living like this, i.e. the condensation, dealing with other people's attitudes based on stereotypes, etc. I was so happy to see that their dog Chance seems to be thriving as well. In Mat and Danielle's interview with them, they talked about how all these people would say that they couldn't take their older dog with them and they were like "no way are we doing this trip without Chance. This trip is FOR Chance!" Wonderful video, thank you again.

[@findingsimon]

We're glad you've been following since exploring alternatives video :) thanks

[@lisamcintyre2990]

You guys are so amazing. I could watch you forever. You are both so nice to each other.

[@Krash845]

nice, honest video showing the difficult side of van life, refreshing.

[@Realinformer]

Really enjoyed that great film, thank you for posting!

[@GotEmAll1337]

Awesome, real, and honest video. Love it. Really glad smell-O-vision hasn't been invented yet, though haha

[@lovelala6861]

Loved hearing the honesty of every moment and the insight. Thank you for sharing.

[@morena2770]

That was very inspiring!! Cute couple 😍😍

[@findingsimon]

Thank you :)

[@darrenbemrose5381]

Thank you Shelby and Simon for being so open and honest, Best Wishes from England.

[@SillyConeBaby]

I love this documentary so much! Thanks for sharing your lives

[@lorigulick8633]

Love this video thanks for sharing. I realize this was done a few years ago but it’s still so relevant today. Thank you for taking the time

[@simongreenham]

i'm watching this in the warmth of my little flat in London , totally immersed in your adventure. As a kid I went touring round Europe in a caravan with my family - theres something lovely about the contained cosiness of the van as well as the total boundless freedom of life on the road. . I haven't been that cooped up as an adult , I'm in awe and envious of your close relationship - you're very lucky to have each other - and Champ ! Not everyone's partnership could take that proximity. truck on !

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

So great to hear you have the awareness that it's the tests and trials that shape & mould you. This is true for all humans ; its just that with so much at our fingertips we don't have to go thru the curves and bumps of life ...we just walk away from the tough stuff and never actually learn or change. BRAVO for your perseverance 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 I applaud you 👍👍👍👍

[@BexCatherder]

I have been following Shelby & Simon for quite a while now but this is my favorite video by them. It really encapsulates everyday life. Not terrible but not always wonderful. Really enjoyed the perspective.

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!!

[@rowanbowyer6560]

I just love love love your attitude you’ve shown when the van burnt out! You absolutely are right ...... no one was hurt !!! I’ve learned to look at adversity philosophically, yes it’s really stressful when big things go wrong BUT your right they do present challenges and somehow we may be able to recover. Just imagine if someone had been killed or hurt badly! I admire you both, you learn so much about yourself and just human nature. I wish you both all the very best

[@KWms7]

I love you guys! This is inspiring. Thank you for sharing your experience.

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!! :)

[@esratemel]

i enjoyed watching them.They got me to think deeply about what they say,how they see the world etc.Thank you!

[@CenterpointConnect]

Ugh... I dont know how many times the rain has kept us awake. And If I manage to sleep through it, my dog doesn't. RV life is great, but the 20 mph winds right now are tossing us even as I watch this video. Thank goodness for hydraulic jacks.

[@monicacespedes4406]

Your are so REAL, HONEST AND fricking FUNNY!!!! THANK YOU!!!!

[@john3Lee]

Awwww - I love the black dog !! :)

[@anastasiarenaud2568]

Me too. Has the best doggie expressions

[@NinaAsha]

Me too! Reminds me of the black lab/collie mix we had - sweetest, silliest dog ever! :)

[@jamey48]

Great film ! Its nice to see an honest look at van life. Im a truck driver, so i know what living in a small space is like.

[@michaelprior7459]

Thanks for the honest view into van life. Do you think that most of your issues could have been mitigated with a newer van with better insulation and no leaks?

[@heathergable4555]

You two are so cute together! I love your sense of humor you both have about the difficult things you both deal with. The honesty of what you deal with both physically and emotionally is such a breathe of fresh air. I'm also very impressed on your ability to make money while still being able to travel. My mother always said. Happiness is a state of mind. Also positive thoughts bring positive things. Your definitely reminding me that material things are not what provide true happiness. Is being able to love someone that loves you back and who has who has similar goals and ideations about what they want out of life! Can't wait to watch more videos about your everyday things you overcome, both good and the dad

[@butterflymagicwithhottea9291]

Thank you for this reality check.

[@DorothyGTyas]

Hear! Hear!👍🤓

[@tamk5130]

That was really beautiful. Didn't think I would watch the whole thing. What a lovely story, thanks for filming it

[@bethhurst6231]

"do you know where the library is?" LOL!!

[@nevaehsangel9620]

Beth Hurst ....laughed so hard at that! 😂😂😂

[@reginaquetzalquinones8392]

Great , kool, wonderful .... Simon thanks for being humorous about your life.... So important . May God have Mercy on us all

[@cadavher]

I wish so badly I wasn't attached to material things. I would love and often think of what life would be like in one of these vans or those really really fancy tiny mobile homes! I'm pretty much a stay at home, don't see people much anyway, so I think I could handle that part alright! I however think not having a real shower, or washing machine for clothes would be my biggest set back. You two seem like such old souls, very patient and easy going, thanks for the video!

[@greenchilli6660]

What a beautiful and honest video, me and my girl HIGHLY appreciate all the effort that has gone into making this compilation and the fun part about it is that watching the REAL unfiltered version of reality actually made us want to do this even more. Thank you!

[@bellavita3097]

Simon is so funny, and that's what every girl is lucky to have, a boy to make her smile, each and every day:)

[@lukasvilla2657]

They broke up :(

[@robertchapman1682]

Great video. Candid. Fairly balanced. Real. Traveling in a van and living in a van differ so greatly and this video captures that.

[@marc-andrelheureux9072]

Probably the most honest video I've seen so far about living in a van! Thank you for making and sharing this video! Van life ain't no Instagram :)

[@MrMountainchris]

Thanks for sharing your story! You guys seem like a great couple and it is nice to see a REALISTIC view of what life van life is. Good and sometimes bad.

[@sayit-sayit]

Excellent video! Too bad I can't thumbs up twice! Champ is a lucky dog. Sorry you lost your first van. Funny how the universe works. Sometimes horrible things lead you to seek out something better. Thanks for such a great video. I am subscribing now. I want to see the rest of your work. :)

[@findingsimon]

Thank you!! :)

[@madiantin]

Oh my gosh, the van fire! About broke my heart. OTOH, that blue colour and the decoration on the new one. That's good stuff right there. Also the quiff at the front. Love the blue quiff. Thank you for telling it like it is.

[@aidanbowie5391]

"screw you, you average sized woman" I'm going to use that line from now on.

[@i_love_rescue_animals]

Great pick up line! 🤣

[@nonyabizness.original]

i heard "average sized human".

[@kylucas1610]

Thank you both for showing the real experiences of van life. I loved the video and you two are great!

[@LeeLaunches]

Superb! Been following Simon and shelby for a while on their channel. Love the story running through this . Especially enjoyed seeing how they describe and show the reality of what its really like to live in a van and the theme of how to find work on the road.

[@mellanese]

Simon and Shelby, thank you for sharing your journey, experiences; the good, the bad and the ugly. I think you also highlighted some unspoken struggles about van life along the way. I commend you for staying with it and learning about yourselves and living the life you both chose, of freedom. #StaySafe

[@nzscruffy7171]

I've lived the #vanlife and I loved it. Only thing I didn't like was dealing with people when parked for the night. It's really hard to find a peaceful spot. These guys hated the weather, etc... I loved it, was the attraction to doing it. vanlife isn't for people who like the comforts of civilization.

[@jarunporn]

NZScruf

[@jimmyfinn3003]

Any tips you could share about the parking situations? Thx.

[@craigcookmusic]

In nz ?

[@harliv6117]

This is amazing...the most honest and real video I've seen on living on the road in a van...and I've watched soooo many! I really appreciate the depth of information and the looks at the highs and lows and the peek at what feels like actual life. Thank you from someone who wants to do this fulltime and was looking for just this!

[@alexella9689]

so personal... thank you for this video

[@PIK4]

I am light years away from getting my own van, but man does this provide some honest and realistic insight! great tips and well appreciated. good stuff! Never before have I appreciated how being short (i'm 5'4) could come in handy!

[@puyihsieh127]

It seems wonderful. Constant changes would get me depressed after awhile. I would need points of destination!

[@stevecasey6411]

I absolutely love this video. It is so real and genuine. Thank you for sharing!

[@phatcowboy76]

Find a dehumidifier that runs off of 120 volts and get an inverter that runs off of a cigarette lighter and makes 120 volts. Use that to run the dehumidifier. The dehumidifier has a fan that circulates air and does its job. you can keep all the windows and fan outlets closed that way.

[@ThomasWait]

You two are amazing! Your thoughts on vacation vs. living are right on!

[@SoundMediaVibes]

I love these alternative lifestyle videos!

[@andyb.7617]

Great video. Thank you for documenting. Awesome. Love the truth and honesty.

[@helenamoniqueclarke8135]

But they have to be the cutest couple ever.

[@findingsimon]

D'aw thanks

[@kelllacrosse3944]

+Shelby and Simon Wonderful and inspiring video! Happy trails!

[@ОнуфрийНечепуренко]

actually Shelby is too fat

[@haute03]

Онуфрий Нечепуренко Actually, please log out forever.

[@ОнуфрийНечепуренко]

it's true: Shelby is fat. So the problem isn't in me.

[@carlmic7]

You guys are amazing! I have never seen such an exploration of van life. Its really eye opening to me. As a camper who has slept on the ground I would really love to live as you have. Thank You.

[@azules9780]

Why do I see so many people who refuse to get a freaking dehumidifier!?!?!

[@VanlifewithAlan]

Good idea. I have not got one in my van but will consider it.

[@JonHowardPhotos]

Rhett, respectfully: dehumidifiers require a lot of electricity. It would take a powerful solar system just to run an electric dehumidifier. Or it would require running a generator which is very expensive and usually very noisy. Many vandwellers use the moisture absorbing pellets, etc. but condensation is a huge factor for many people, especially if they burn propane in their units. I haven't seen any effective solution that doesn't require a substantial amount of electricity. If you know of one, please share it. It would help a lot of people. Thanks.

[@wanderingwade8877]

I'm wondering if or how the propane furnace is vented or not? I've seen some campers install a wood stove setup and it seems to fix the condensation problem.

[@Turk380]

yeah, I too was wondering if the furnace is not properly vented. I'm in an even smaller van (Vanagon Westy) with a propane furnace which is vented outside, and have never had condensation problems like this.

[@MelanieGVF]

I have a small dehumidifier that we use in our RV bathroom. It doesn't take very much electricity. We have a portable ac that we only use at RV parks. Following 70 degrees works here in the US.

[@felinefox4039]

I really enjoyed this story so much. I used to live in a van years ago. It can be challenging to always find a good place to park. Anywhere urban is a no go. And you have to go places where it's warm enough so that you are mainly outdoors and close to nature....the whole point of van life. Once you are in sync with the natural world a whole other side to life and yourself opens up...but the transition from your old way of life, the one that you were brought up with and perhaps all you have ever known, is difficult. Thanks for sharing your journey and being so honest and open. Some hilarious moments of the challenges!

[@SillyConeBaby]

I admire your sense of adventire *as a team... I have gotten us (my family of 5) to move states and rv living but we don't have the means to pull it so we are stationary in an rv park. but my husband has less sense of adventure, so it's difficult getting him on the same page

[@Piperdreams]

You guys are so cool...genuine peeps! So enjoyed this experience you went through...the insights shared, so true!

[@JoslynThomas]

"I mean, I'll be a freeloader anyway - I just don't want people judging me for being a freeloader." YUP. Truth.

[@Mich4765]

Best van life video I've seen to date. Artfully done and the reality of living that life really shown through. Good luck and will be watching out for future vids.

[@kirelight6255]

Truly Beautiful people

[@lynnmauneen3600]

this was a very real window into your world and van living. TY for sharing. X

[@masterjackoff2047]

just bought a van. now that I watched this I'm ready to sell my van

[@masterjackoff2047]

ActionGirafe lol ok. My van _lh3.googleusercontent.com/7FNtsvic3aM5x6nTfIvtGfy4XCRUjU32x5PPcs3hXxon51W8UbVN9Mh30f-aWZxYUVUWcyD_4A_

[@masterjackoff2047]

ActionGirafe I don't know if you could pull up the pic of my van , but I clicked on it and it didn't pull up. My apologies

[@northvanman1283]

haha

[@laionemeihetahikoulakanate9515]

master jackoff Ven is for saving money and be single and travel. Not for children oh married.

[@Thehandsomeliberal]

I am an expediter that lives in a van. It's quite enjoyable when you have the right equipment. This couple obviously has an old van. It's leaking all over the place, reducing their quality of life. They probably also have far too much stuff as well. In regards to their wet sleeping arrangement, the solution is simple. Wrap the mattress in plastic or a tarp. Put a dry flannel sheet on the mattress at night and sleep nice and dry. In the morning, store the sheet so that it stays dry.

[@francesclark363]

Beautiful story. Nice how you haven't glamorised living in your tiny home. I feel it's refreshing to minimaluse your STUFF and really know it's OK bring who you are

[@kloudnine8786]

Im 17 And definitly going to be doing this with my truck when i turn 18

[@chunkhutchinson]

This is the most honest, down to earth and egoless vanlife channel I am yet to come across. Thankyou both for a truly realistic portrayal of life in a van. Godbless...

[@gingerelvis]

I totally get that "vanlife" isn't how the internet makes it look, it definitely takes a certain mindset and a very positive, outgoing attitude taking everything as it comes. The lifestyle obviously hasn't been quite what you expected, Instagram, Pinterest etc rarely are a true representation of life in general, but more a platform for vanity. I do think there are things that would have made it a lot more pleasant though. The van you used is very conspicuous and does look a pretty skecthy, particularly in well to do built up areas. A more modern, relatively stealth van that looks like any other commercial vehicle would have given you much less hassle. Also the amount of stuff you had onboard will make that space seem small, it's very much about asking yourself what do I really need... Do I need a four burner stove or a double sink? Or could you utilise the extra space better. I have been through some pretty uncertain times both personally and financially myself, to some extent I still am as a freelancer, not knowing when the next pay cheque is coming in etc. But I think it's time for me to turn this from being a negative and embrace the freedom of uncertainty and enjoy adventure that can complement my business and lifestyle. There is much more to life than being comfortable! Thanks for sharing, it's always good to see other peoples real world experiences. I am still very much excited to take the step into a nomadic lifestyle.

[@4Seasons365]

This is one of the best KZbin videos I have seen and so educational for me to learn and you answered many of my questions about that life style that I want to do. Thank you

[@VocalVirgo]

This is one of the better videos on realistic van life. I'll be taking my 26' A class around the country this spring and summer. Just me and my cat. I'm definitely going to document as much of it as I can. I hope to have many more good and great days then crap days. And thank God I have an actual little bedroom with a queen size bed in it so I won't have to worry about "tricky" situations. God, I can't believe they actually commented on that part, LOL. #VanLifeSex

[@findingsimon]

Oh the questions people ask......

[@VocalVirgo]

+Shelby and Simon Instead of asking you guys, maybe I'll meet someone during my travels, and trust me, I'll kiss & tell! (so you don't have to!)

[@brirae3252]

VocalVirgo lol kiss and tell for sure!

[@bigjim8127]

I found that your video is very inspiring and hope that you two continue on your Journey, you two are great people !!

[@sweetcanada17]

I would have kept the ceiling plain old white. With all the stuff that people tend to live with, small places tend to look cluttered already. It's good to keep some areas clear and in one solid colour. In other words, adding some colourful patterns is unnecessary visual clutter.

[@SGRmoss]

Agreed. The map idea is cool and obviously vanlife appropriate, but I would not have placed them on the ceiling. Perhaps inside the cabinets for visual interest that isn't in view all the time.

[@queenlorea2094]

I’ve watched over a hundred videos on van or stealth live style and not one of them expressed the truths about the ups and downs honestly. You all are a pleasure and an experience to watch. Your videos are true and honest, I appreciate your choices and sharing your lives with all of us. To often the other people sugar coat how difficult van life can be. They only share the glorious points of nomad living. Many blessings❣️♥️

[@just888another888ide]

awesome quote @ 46:07 ---> "We don't want to make a life that we need to vacation from...... If you're constantly saving up so you can vacation from your life because you hate it so much, then what are you doing?"

[@lindabarrett6471]

Your peaceful universe comes from within. But the small space helps you narrow everything down to learn yourself and how you want to be. You desire to be content and you are. I wish I had your wisdom when I was your age. Praying for your safe and happy journeys. Thank you for sharing.

[@HiImSpencerTate]

37:12 - 37:22 so funny! how long did it take to film this video?

[@kirstendirksen]

+Natasha Tanke Simon has been filming their entire trip and posting videos to their youtube channel: kzbin.info He contacted me to find out if I wanted to create a longer profile for my channel. You can find more in-depth videos on each topic on their channel.

[@HiImSpencerTate]

oh nice!! just viewing his channel now!

[@mjshaheed]

+Kirsten Dirksen Thank you so much Kirsten! Awesome content, as always!!

[@treelore5100]

+Kirsten Dirksen You should put the link to their youtube in the description :-)

[@treelore5100]

+Tree Lore Great I see it's now added.

[@Robin-om8ug]

I love how you detail every aspect about living in a van and don't sugar coat or glamorize it. Thank you for making me think things through in life! Safe travels!