My father called me to his bedside as he was dying in 2003. Always a serious, successful hard working man that did all he could for his wife, widowed mother and his 3 sons. I knew,... his last words would be deep and philosophical. He looked into my eyes and said, " son, life is an institution, but ,....... who likes an institution ? " LOL That has brought me so much peace and laughter over the last two decades. Father had always followed the rules and expectations of the world and in the end I think he was giving me a gift in a joke. I think he was telling his spirited, rebellious sigma, son to go his own way and screw convention and in doing so put some wind in your hair. LESSON : Don't die regretting that you didn't ride that RV or motorcycle around the continents.
@TheMadCamperАй бұрын
Joshua - this almost brought me to tears. Sorry for your loss. Me too. Thing is, I'm fighting Pancreatic Cancer (getting toward the end of treatment). BUT - the plan IS: beat this bugger, retire in 3 years, then on the ROAD full-time in a big trailer. If I get ONE YEAR of that, I'll be OK with it. Right? (After I take off, my channel will get REALLY crazy and fun!) So, thanks for your comment. It confirms my plan. Yeah, go your own way my friend. 👍
@efrainlariz490Ай бұрын
Thanks for the great story
@uvgde7384Ай бұрын
Helly Yeah brother
@AsparagusVideoАй бұрын
Thanks for the PSA.
@sd5899Ай бұрын
My dad on his death bed told me “not to believe everything THEY tell you “ sound advice
@AmusedPineTrees-wh1edАй бұрын
I've lived in a van since August this year. I'm 68 n I've never been so effing stress free, and HAPPY 🎉
@vanlifebayouАй бұрын
It’s great huh?!? Love it❤
@FeralGypsy8Ай бұрын
wow that's awesome!!!!
@geriatricmotorcars9516Ай бұрын
Enjoy well done
@leeinwis25 күн бұрын
What medicine are you on?
@justchill270422 күн бұрын
I want to know more
@66TripsАй бұрын
One of the nicest chaps, there for everyone whenever they need, always looking out for others. Proud to have parked next to Jay a couple of times.
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
Cheers guys
@tynitahaines4012Ай бұрын
This guy's van is is nice. And I love his outlook on life. Great van. I would definitely travel with him.
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
@@tynitahaines4012cheers 👍
@Deehiggins479928 күн бұрын
@@thewanderingwarrior1lovely van ,and good out look on life xx
@deecarter147Ай бұрын
The separate bedroom and the philosophy behind it is simple genius. Well done!
@SpookyColorWorld11 күн бұрын
Agreed, change of scenery for bed time
@joemeyers3127Ай бұрын
Wonderful portrait of a man living on his own terms. Thanks for sharing.
@glennbeadshaw727Ай бұрын
First time I've seen this fellow on the KZbin and what a treat actually just talking normally and being honest
@lindamarie6574Ай бұрын
You didn’t lose everything, you gained life and freedom!😊 great van!
@cawstongreenwayАй бұрын
Thanks for the vid - what an absolute gem of a guy. Giving more than he is taking. Someone who is actually living rather than just surviving. Thank you Jay for showing us what life should be like 💚
@barbwatkins3676Ай бұрын
Love the vibe Jay has created in his home. The pallet wood looks brilliant and the separate bedroom is inspired. Jay is a genuinely good guy. Hey from Australia. 🦋
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
Hey thanks 🙏
@bethgorman3736Ай бұрын
All that gold,doesn't glitter. Not all those who wander are lost.! Amen!
@SentiessenceAlbionАй бұрын
I'm the same age as Jay. I have the greatest respect for him and I'm glad that his life post-divorce, has worked out well through this alternative, better lifestyle.
@rpvvr451Ай бұрын
Morning bro. I live in a van too. love life but we need to start keeping schtum about it. The amount of haters is building fast mainly due to youtube etc , all decent parkups are heaving or full of gimps with cameras. 'they' will ban it .....but I will not be giving up! We fought them 30 years ago and we'll do it again...old as we are.
@simonbaker6962Ай бұрын
I love this style far more than the plush van builds. The wood makes it feel cosy and warm.
@philcudworth8491Ай бұрын
Good luck fella. Been off grid 20 years myself now. Struggled with van life tbh so on the canal system now continuous cruising. Keep smiling 🙏💪😊
@Goggles18 күн бұрын
My dad lives on a narrow boat and has a mooring up near Skipton. It's not easy but he loves the freedom to move around. He's enjoying his retirement for sure.
@elcaminocamperproject23 күн бұрын
I havent slept in a house in 10 months. Divorced my abusive ex and found peace and healing by building myself a tiny home on wheels and living on the road. Happier than ive ever been.
@islandgirl5472Ай бұрын
Aloha - Thank you for this feature. Jay seems to be a great guy with a great outlook on life. Mentioning his kids and grandkids shows that despite the divorce, he’s still a dad and a grandad. Great perspective on the life he’s living…love that he’s living on his own terms.
@cedarcanoeАй бұрын
You’re absolutely right to live the life you live. Stay safe, may Thor be with you. Greetz from Sweden
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
⚡️👌
@markbeale739010 күн бұрын
⚡️ 🔨 ⚡️
@michaelwittmann2644Ай бұрын
One man and his mobile castle! All the best, dude!👍😎
@John-FourteenSixАй бұрын
There’s a lesson for everyone here. Thank you, take care and good luck.
@rench1984Ай бұрын
Yeah, don't get married. Just get a van and go travelling without the hassle.
@John-FourteenSixАй бұрын
@@rench1984 Coming up on 40years of marriage. It’s an honourable institution.
@rench1984Ай бұрын
😂
@stephenpoessl5464Ай бұрын
Love the art work on the van.
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
Thank you
@pmclellan123Ай бұрын
Probably the coolest paint job I’ve seen yet. Well done buddy!!
@travel-van-world6312Ай бұрын
Home is where you park it ! Its great to get some positive vibes from others that choose the freedom of living an alternative lifestyle . 🌞
@RogueDriverАй бұрын
What a decent fella, i wish him well. Another excellent video, keep up the good work. Godspeed.....
@julietteshore1118Ай бұрын
I’m 69 just got divorced and I’ve bought a van!
@keithlowe90373 күн бұрын
Me too Keith from NZ
@Coco-mw8tzАй бұрын
That bedroom at the back! Brilliant design
@guyrose2239Ай бұрын
I’m 66 and loving life …. Not knackered 😂💪 Enjoy your journey buddy … wish you well 👍🏻
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
🤦♂️🫶
@J5497Ай бұрын
I like the attitude of parking wherever you want. You're absolutely right, the vehicle can legally park where you want.
@stephenbland7461Ай бұрын
Not strictly true and as he said, it’s getting more and more difficult to find free legal parkups (and wild camping spots) especially in England. I’ve had ‘the knock’ on several occasions, by farmers, the forestry commission, land owners and the police, on places that I thought were free to park on. I’ve also heard from friends who have received negativity from people who lump vanlifers in with travellers, and fear the mess that would be left behind. IMHO the government doesn’t want to encourage this lifestyle, probably because they lose control and as we all know, especially since covid, controlling the population is the number one aim of governments all the world over.
@keepitreal1547Ай бұрын
Park 'yes' Sleep in unfortunately 'no'
@Dutchy695Ай бұрын
If you don't know your rights then you don't have any rights.
@austinbuxАй бұрын
@@keepitreal1547 Who's enforcing that rule?
@keepitreal1547Ай бұрын
@@austinbux It's highly unlikely as most are indoors sat at a table, but those employed to enforce the law in the UK.
@utube4jcАй бұрын
Just perfect! We don't need much to be happy. But we also don’t need to deprive ourselves either. He is definitely not lacking anything. Just great!
@colinturner4158Ай бұрын
It’s about attitude and respect well done my man good luck in your van life age is but a number
@andyt5116Ай бұрын
Im livin this lifestyle in New Zealand.. my ride is VW LT46.. big van... never looked back.
@milkweeddreams882816 сағат бұрын
The paint job is fabulous, one of the best...great attitude...happy trails...!
@susanlewis1875Ай бұрын
What a welcoming, comfortable space. I love it!
@fyrish100Ай бұрын
Well done , decent van ,freedom ❤🏴
@christophertottle6022Ай бұрын
Thanks for creating & posting your very eye opening YT video.
@EiretravellerАй бұрын
Thank you so much for your honesty
@deniscudahy4549Ай бұрын
Jay is an amazing bloke it’s a pleasure for me and my wife to know him and see him ❤
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
🫶 love ya guys
@TheLegenDacsterАй бұрын
Good on ya Jay, you've transformed adversity to benevolence for not just you but many others. All the best for many more years of safe adventuring.
@em6577Ай бұрын
I LOVE the interior. Rustic and cosey.
@ekdaufin1485Ай бұрын
GORGEOUS kitchen counter!
@manconthemoveАй бұрын
Loved it as per. Another well sourced find. Brilliantly done 👍🏻💚💚
@liverationАй бұрын
Thanks Alan! One step closer to yours haha 😎🙌🏼
@manconthemoveАй бұрын
@liveration Yeah I know 😁,....ooooh exciting 😀💚💚
@sarahfox9180Ай бұрын
What a lovely guy with a fantastic build and outlook on life❤
@davidmackintosh8265Ай бұрын
I’ve been living in a van for 2 years plus now and Jay explained things so well ! Seems a nice bloke all the best on your travel adventures
@sell310019 күн бұрын
He's living my dream life... I'll get there soon enough ❤
@valeriebridge7305Ай бұрын
I admire people who let themselves be who they are and not worry about what others think. I am more conventional than this man but can admire him for following his dream and being happy with what he has.
@valeriebridge7305Ай бұрын
Oh dear I didn't mean to sound so stuffy
@JuliePike820Ай бұрын
I have that exact same Tolkien quote tattooed on my arm! 🙌🏼
@gratefulagoraphobeАй бұрын
Tiny houser. The freedom and peace of mind from not having to pay rent or mortgage is life changing
@beed.8037Ай бұрын
@Jay Let go of the bitterness. This'll make you feel even better. Nice van! 🫶🏼 the paint job!
@jasonwinsley1229Ай бұрын
Bender the burner is a stroke of genius! Having a log burner is thee only thing I miss about living in my bungalow…I live in a vw T6.1 so space is limited…but my mission in life is to re-gig her guts and figure out how to get a burner in. All the best from one Jay in a van to another 👊
@dorkloser123Ай бұрын
Woooow great job Jay wish you many more adventures in your lovely home on wheels.
@RiversEdge-e9y25 күн бұрын
God bless brother. Keep doing whatever puts a smile on your face.
@BodhiTheBohoHobo18 күн бұрын
Been There, Done That and Never Again. You are living the dream! Living Well Is The Best Revenge. Sending you good thoughts, powerful energy and groovy vibes!
@frankmckie2992Ай бұрын
Since a kid iv allways loved 5he idea of living as you do ..... good for you i ŵish you well mate 👍
@Mackyoh22Ай бұрын
Well done Jay, terrific home you've made & great attitude to dive into life's wild waterfalls! Here's wishing you all the best & Keep on truckin'!🌏🛸
@the-nomadАй бұрын
Nice setup, great attitude. Great vid.
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
😮 love ya guy
@ChrisAlexander-d5hАй бұрын
Love the cartoon paint job😊,bread bin storage,great easy way to form a cupboard , Top guy ❤
@mavisgetsaboutАй бұрын
👍🏻 another great video guys... Jay, down to earth, nice guy😊
@TimberbeartrailАй бұрын
This was an extraordinary video and done as well
@chrisb4504Ай бұрын
Good on u mate I’m so angry still after divorce!
@PamelaBewleyАй бұрын
I totally commend you on this! Its the neatest thing I've ever seen! Enjoy the journey! 🎉
@Mark22WiDaxАй бұрын
What an amazing 🤩 van .. great life ❤️🏴
@janeyoung4844Ай бұрын
Less is more Wishing you all the very best ❤
@graemekinder949121 күн бұрын
Mate. You have inspired me. I have just ordered a new van and served the wife with divorce papers. Let the good times roll.
@JAWS-qj1rj7 күн бұрын
Good luck to you! These videos are going to make men file for divorces whether their marriages are happy or not!😅😅 Have a blast and enjoy the life!👍
@LABTESTEDАй бұрын
jay really really enjoyed that thank you so much
@CampingwilderАй бұрын
It's very important to focus on your health at the age over your 40's. Let's face it, if your British and been enjoying the last 4 decades, it will have taken its toil. Living in a van will humble then change you.
@sophiawow35413 күн бұрын
So true. Health is wealth!😊
@matterhorn1975Ай бұрын
The government could never stop van life IMO. There is always somewhere to park, even if it's in a residential area
@3000BassmanАй бұрын
I think governments and councils in many places should be supportive of vanlife, considering many people who have jobs are still struggling to pay the high rent prices for below average accommodation; at least living in a van (even if if isn't long-term) is a better option than homelessness
@snark56724 күн бұрын
@@3000Bassman Maybe they want people to be living paycheck to paycheck, worrying about rent so they show up to work. Also you don't have to pay council tax and you know how much the government loves taxes. Regardless, the people in charge are out of touch, if Van Life becomes more and more popular, eventually the government will find ways to tax you to death for living in a van.
@PappaFury9 күн бұрын
@3000Bassman bold.of.you to assume the governments think of their people as more than cattle
@cenedraleaheldra527520 күн бұрын
Warm inviting beautiful build. Great size. I hope you have many wonderful days filled with memories.
@theabandonedhunter3604Ай бұрын
Wicked video guys as always!! Nice one Jay all the best, wicked van!! ….Smithy
@EggnogonthebogProductionsАй бұрын
Great van. And to me comes across as a polite gentleman.
@DewiPridmore17 күн бұрын
Well done Jay , you've found your perfect work to life balance...
@rvnut1133Ай бұрын
Good on you dude, I like the homie feel and rustic look of the van inside. Very cozy and inviting to me. Cheers
@adamfulford6423Ай бұрын
Van looking great mate, inside and out! Well done!!
@gilesgraves2725Ай бұрын
Wonderful. Love the paint work. You NEED some decent Rogue Alloys and BF Goodrich tyres.
@grahamcleverley1356Ай бұрын
Bf Goodrich tyres aren't that good To much road noise There are better
@Martin-d5t5jАй бұрын
Class mate. Cracking van 🎉
@geriatricmotorcars9516Ай бұрын
Im 67 and not knackered . Its a state of mind ❤️
@richlee5098 күн бұрын
If you do truck driving it can be tiring so I get what he means
@-M0LEАй бұрын
This guy has is spot on
@neilmurdoch6049Ай бұрын
Good luck to you Jay......love the van....inspiring....hope you get to Morocco soon.
@FeralGypsy8Ай бұрын
Love his home:) He did a really good job making it happen. I'd love love love to do it but I have no idea about mechanics. I'll do the tiny house thing with a mechanic nearby.
@mattysmith220Ай бұрын
Love this. My small t5 has panel wood and i love it. This is next level. great van and a great bloke
@nonlostsoulsАй бұрын
Another great video guys, interviewing and showing a great guy that we’re lucky enough to call a good friend, and yes AVG is the best🤘☯️
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
You guys are awesome and yes, bloody good friends ❤
@jaffaz87Ай бұрын
Another top video! Awesome work guys 👍 Such a cool van!
@godiskungen27Ай бұрын
Awesome lovely bloke bless him❤❤
@LuisPutsche18 күн бұрын
Love the vid, love to see more content like this. Great stuff keep going guys. Also what a free soul he is. Love to see it 🙌
@livingworkingoutsideboxАй бұрын
Great paint job.😮👍awesome rig
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
Thank you very much
@jeffreybail353Ай бұрын
best build i have ever seen
@-Maeola-Ай бұрын
Love the paint job on that thing!
@scottsmith14133 күн бұрын
Great guy and I wish him all the best.
@FreeBirdUKVanLifeАй бұрын
Hey Jay, great interview mate ❤ x
@thewanderingwarrior1Ай бұрын
Thanks 🙏
@Merthyr-Dave13 күн бұрын
This chap , has it all now and happy good off you.
@steveclack113114 сағат бұрын
Just come across this video, love it and subbed, thanks buddy
@markbeale739010 күн бұрын
Yes very interesting and informative,enjoyable, thanks from 🇦🇺 .
@BrianShawEire12 күн бұрын
This interview can relate to me personally, kind of the same situation when it comes to losing everything but still in the meat grinder of 6 over 7 days onsite work, me son is nearly 3 and I'd love to one day be in a position like this would be the dream to show him a different life then what I'm currently living.
@c0deye1Ай бұрын
That Tolkien quote tattoo is great
@Jords_adventures1Ай бұрын
Ace video 🙌 and what a van ! Just subscribed ✌️
@BoozyPirateАй бұрын
Very enjoyable watch indeed.
@markr3140Ай бұрын
Real inspiration - thanks for sharing!!
@michaelhall549Ай бұрын
Fair play to you!! enjoy your van life and be safe....
@DebReed54Ай бұрын
I feel you. Semi retired since 2008. Live your rig!
@julieannesimms981Ай бұрын
Love your home 🏡 good for you 👍
@kodithebearАй бұрын
Amazing setup and lifestyle. Paint job though.... :D
@asaandthemarchharepart2903Ай бұрын
Fabulous video and great Chap. AVG group is Awesome, Best one Going 👌