My van is gone, but van life isn’t over!

[@MoBangFoYoBucks]

Remove the front passenger, and you can create a bedplatform with 24" width plywood. There are plenty of videos on how to on YT. The seat can be removed and reinstalled easily.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I think the word “easily” is very subjective. LOL With airbags and power seats and everything? I’ll ask my neighborhood mechanic about it. Wow. I hope you’re right. That could be a game changer. Thanks so much! Good to see you!

[@MoBangFoYoBucks]

@YouAndMeLivingFree 4 bolts and 2 or 3 wires harness disconnected, DONE! You might have that annoying ABS comes on.😉

[@bashieenglish1010]

So delightful to see your smile and hear your laugh again! What about a tent and air mattress? Lots of blankets and/or a small heater.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Yes, these are possibilities once I am at the destination! 😊😊😊

[@DeS-vl2gs]

You are the first person on YT to whom I've ever contributed. I know it isn't much, but I wanted to give you something to let you know that I believe in your journey. I look forward to seeing you back on the road.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Your support means more than you know! I appreciate you. Thanks for being here! 💖

[@ClairenParkerontheRoad]

Heck no it's not over. I totalled my van two years ago and became homeless. The experience was very traumatic to me, but today I'm okay and I'm thriving in car camping. There is life after a totalled van!!! Great to be hearing from you again, Dani.

[@patriciapark7287]

How did you recover, get money and a vehicle again, & start car camping again? What's the difference between being homeless in a car & car camping? I've been homeless as well, so no judgment here.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I can feel your powerful, positive energy from here. Way to go!!! Thanks for being here!

[@leslielajes5646]

Yay Dani! Can't wait to see you back on the road and sharing your adventures. Glad to see your smiling face back on YT...missed you :)

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! 💖💖💖

[@kimsargeant8126]

What you’ve learned - practical into - would be great!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks! Will do.

[@maryland8532]

You are having a fun party on wheels! Keep doing it as much as you can. Once a month or once every two months.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks! Will do!

[@susansmith2969]

Car camping is a great part time option, Dani! After I watched your video I was scrolling and a Bob Wells video from 8 years ago popped up. It features a woman who was living in a tiny car…much tinier than your Camry. She lays her front passenger seat forward as part of her bed. There’s a slant but it’s doable. I sleep on a wedge pillow anyway for reflux so it would be perfect for me. Lol You can figure it out!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks, Susan!!! Good to see you! 💖

[@Kirbygal55]

Hi Dani, I have a small SUV and also do a lot of house and pet sits which works well for me. I am short so sleeping in it is ok. I am retired and love the life style of living like this. I think the biggest challenge for me is keeping everything simple and living very minimalistic.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks for sharing!! Sounds like you are finding what works for you. It’s a process for sure!

[@micheledelnigro9259]

Sorry to hear about your van. Your still smiling so that's a step forward. I pray you continue to travel free.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much! 😊😊😊

[@poppypaint]

You are an inspiration! I have that pull in my heart, but it would mean giving up all my security. Job. Everything. Trying to figure out if it is my soul telling me to do it or if it is a midlife crises. I would be going in my car too. It’s what I have. It is very doable. Scary decision!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Definitely scary! I go back and forth between wanting security and freedom all the time. How to have one without completely giving up the other can be very challenging!

[@kntonks]

Yes!!! To the Amazon list! Thanks for updating us. I live my travel dreams through you. I wish you the best of luck and can’t wait to see what you come up with for your Camry.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much!! 💖

[@pamelathompson2836]

Hi Dani. Love and feel your spirit. This one has a plan to do the same. Look forward to your next post.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you, I’m so glad you’re here!

[@ricksgypsy2512]

I travel in a 2011 Dodge Nitro Heat. I love it. I am sure whatever vehicle you use it will be fine. Keep believing in yourself Safe travels

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you! Will do! 💖💖💖

[@wandoorose]

Hi Dani, very special to have your Mum’s car. I did a lot of car camping with a tent while planning for my minivan life. Perhaps a roof-box & rear car tent would be a good option for now. You would have space to use as kitchen/bathroom & or bedroom, depending on the size. I’m sure you’ll find the best solution for your needs & current situation. Good luck & happy travels.🌻

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! I was thinking about that kind of tent. With my van, it makes sense because of the back door. But with the car, what’s the advantage of that over a regular tent? I couldn’t enter the tend through the trunk, so I’d still have to go outside. I’m really trying to figure this out. Life would be easier if I could travel in my car while I save money for a van. Thanks for sharing!

[@wandoorose]

@@YouAndMeLivingFree Yes, a regular tent sounds like a better solution. A rear car tent offers no help if you can’t access it from the car.🌸

[@cb4729]

I have a 2007 Camry...and she just keeps going!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Yes! Love those Camrys!!!

[@hr3134]

Dani you are such a bright & shiny spirit I hope you get everything you dream of! The car could be an adventure. A really great story down the road :) You clearly wish to keep the car, and you can always do the bigger van later. Also, I was shocked you're in your fifties, I would have guessed thirties!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much!! You’re very kind! 💖💖💖

[@charlottewilson4680]

Can't wait to see you camping in your car.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’m half excited, half scared. Lolz!

[@sharlynebeach2786]

Oh my ! I missed your last video but went back and watched it. Sorry the accident happened and the van was a total loss. Glad you were not injured. I can relate to your emotional feelings. My car seems to be on it's way to the vehicle graveyard. I've had it worked on numerous times recently and it seems I am throwing money away trying to keep it running. Maybe you can car camp, while saving for your next van. Maybe you can find one of those small pull behind sleeper campers, if you can get a trailer hitch installed on your car. Wishing you all the best...It will all work out. 😊 🙏

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

It will work out - you’re so right! Thanks for being here! 💖

[@vanlife_dreamer]

And yes, I will take that medal!😊

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

💖💖💖🏅🏅🏅

[@jeremyking3986]

I bought an 05 Sienna for $3200 3 years ago, I spend my summers out west hiking and boondocking. I’m at 225k miles now. Just saw an 06 exactly like mine, in better shape even, with 210k miles for $3k.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’m finding similar Siennas, but they are 6-8k. I’m not giving up, though! Thanks!

[@cherylmckay9347]

I love that you're determined not to give up and to try other options. I can't wait to see what you get up to. That's one of my favourite sayings.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! It is a great saying - I think of it often and it’s very helpful!

[@sherryhicks4156]

Dani you are young. Lots of years to get out there and live your dream. I am 78, I started traveling/camping at age 70. Freedom is just around the corner. You have had a taste of what life could be. I have camped in a van, a teardrop and an SUV. You will figure this out. You will get there.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! This means a lot! 😊

[@shinewithheart]

Yes. Car camp with a tent! 🤩

[@shinewithheart]

How about a go fund me or a way for us to donate to get you there quicker? Love you!

[@shinewithheart]

Look at videos on car camping in a Camry. You can let down the back seats and put your feet in the trunk and maybe have more space. 💚

[@shinewithheart]

I love how resilient we are!!!😊

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Hi there! Good to see you!!! My back seats don’t fold down. And my front seat is very complicated to take out. I’m working on it, though!!!

[@SusanHuey]

are you still planning your Grand Canyon hike? would love to hear more!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

It is still on my list of goals and dreams but I do not have a time line yet. I’ll keep you posted! Thank you for asking!

[@sherrylovenguth657]

Can't wait to see the new adventures!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Woo hoo! 😊😊😊

[@SabrinaDawn444]

Yay! I'm so happy that the plan is for you to continue uploading as regularly as possible. I love your channel! I also feel the journey is important and I'm looking forward to hearing more of your journey. While I wish you weren't going through this, it's real life. Sometimes, things don't go smoothly and sometimes we need to make hard choices we aren't ready for. Thank you for sharing your story with us.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much for being here! 💖

[@charlottewilson4680]

Stayed till the end!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

😊😊😊🏅🏅🏅

[@marilyn2]

Can you go on an overnight camping trip to test the car and see if you can figure out a way to sleep comfortably? Have you seen the video of Maren Makes It? She has a smaller car and was able to make a comfortable bed laying the front seat back and leveling it out. Another lady who was interviewed on Butterfly Tracks utilized that method and made a very nice bed.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’ve seen it work for others, you’re so right! Thank you!

[@AizlLGam]

I always enjoy your videos! You can always try sleeping in your car while youre at home.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

So true! Thanks a bunch! 😊

[@amydayl3294]

Good to see you

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Hi Amy! 😊😊

[@kristineshields6005]

Hello I commented earlier on one of the other comments, but I wanted to tell you that I did check out your patreon. I joined, I wish the money could be more, but i'm on a hundred percent disability and very limited funds. I am so impressed by your positive attitude and wish you all the joy in your life. Because it seems like you really do deserve it.❤❤❤

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

You’re very kind! I’m glad you’re here. Thank you! 💖

[@OutdoorsybyNature]

Dani! I'm so glad to hear this isn't the end. You've been such an inspiration to me since 2021 as I've tried to get well enough to go back to living life - especially nomad life. I was an avid car camper for 30+ years but this body of mine can't do that anymore. Thanks to the support of my family and friends who want me to start living again I'm taking the leap into part-time vanlife in January. I'm glad to hear that the spirit that led you to roam free remains since it means I may get to meet you in person somewhere along the way. 💚 Side note: I had a 2010 Honda CRV that I drove for 12 years before passing it down to my niece. I've already told her that I want it back if she decides to upgrade. I think you should hold on to that beloved Camry, too!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

It’s nice to see you! Hello! Good for you, I’m happy to hear about your own van life and CVR. Thanks for being here! 💖

[@OutdoorsybyNature]

@@YouAndMeLivingFree Always! 💚Keep us posted on your plans for the RTR, too. I'd happily send gas money your way again. - Roxanne

[@dalegreene6241]

Hi Dani, Welcome back! I left you a message on Patreon.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Hi, Dale! I will check it out. 💖

[@sheliadavid9933]

Hi Dani! Glad you’re still encouraged to pursue van life, even after losing the van. Good luck with your next adventure with your car… does the back seats fold down?, that could possibly be a temporary bed. So, glad to hear from you..thanks for posting updates, and good thoughts for transitioning!❤

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

The back seats do NOT fold down! It’s a bummer for sure! Thanks for being here! 💖

[@TAArrington]

Did I mention that I hoard camping gear? You should come over and see if I have anything you can use. 😆

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

LOL, hi there! I do have a tent. I don’t usually enjoy tent camping, but…desperate times and all. Good to see you! 💖

[@clarasmith1873]

🎉😂I knew it wasn't over for you!!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

💖💖💖

[@kirrigriffiths2007]

I love listening to your journey! An idea I had when I was considering car camping in my Toyota Corolla as a bigger lady was to put the front passenger seat back as far as it would go (really pretty far! Not flat, but pretty good), and putting a platform over what I had in the leg space because I can't sleep with my legs down. Then to get the mattress from my outdoor recliner and put that over everything. I trialled it, but in the end I haven't done that because I'm doing this to spend time with grandchildren and it's too long to be sleeping in a less than ideal position. I'll be buying an older Toyota Kluger (Highlander in the US) so that I can fit in the back. The fuel is expensive, but easier to not drive for a bit than try to find money for an expensive diesel fix! I hope you find your happy medium. Bless! ❤

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Blessings right back to you! Thanks so much! 😊😊😊

[@artsyfartsylife0369]

I am so happy you are finding an alternative until you get your van. I'm excited to see how you will do your car camping experience bc I am right there with you at this stage ❤

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Woot! We got this! LOL

[@artsyfartsylife0369]

@YouAndMeLivingFree I'm working towards a solar power station to use my 12v electric blanket I bought last year to stay warm in the winter. I'm sure I'll need other options as well. Hope you are doing well ❤️

[@jaclynelaine]

Just found you today, very timely. Setting up my Pacifica to live in for a while, feeling all the things! Your positivity and joy was radiant and exactly what I needed. Maybe I’ll even get crazy and go to RTR and see you there!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Oh my goodness - I’m very excited for you! Adventure awaits! 💖

[@douglaswhite1306]

New subscriber here. The most miserable night I've spent was in the rear seat of a Volkswagen beetle in 1972 while traveling in Germany.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Oh my! Those back seats are tiny!

[@bettybrigance6784]

You know what....you are so real, genuine and share what we all are..just folks doing what we need to do so we can do what we want to do...unless were rich...but most are like you....I've followed you from the start...love your videos of ups and downs..then back up....take care, stay safe...

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks for being here! I appreciate you!!!

[@jeannemarlene]

You can do it and a short trip I know it have a grrrrrreat time much hugs ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️ have fun trip too 😇

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much!! 😊😊😊

[@vanlife_dreamer]

Sorry to hear about your van. Breaks my heart. But excited for you to try the car camping. Let us know how it is going

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you! Will do! 😊😊😊

[@estherstephens1858]

Hi Dani, yes, I’m still here catching up with your videos 😂😂. May I ask, were you able to keep the items from your van and get them home? I actually giggled watching this video bc I felt as if you were thinking out loud and we’re just here watching/listening to you. I love your positive spirit.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! Yes, I got everything except my bed back home and it’s in a storage closet in the basement of my apartment complex right now - waiting for a new home. LOL

[@angelgreensweight3939]

Very happy to see you again!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks for being here! 💖

[@wanderwomanj]

You can definitely car camp! They have tents that come off the back that make it so roomy. I’m almost 5’10 and I have my dachshund. We are car camping starting March until I get a van. If you want someone to car camp with you in Arkansas let me know. I’d be happy to meet up.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Cool! Thanks so much!

[@gracielei76]

Hi Dani! I’m so sorry about your van! I hope you’ll car camping work for you. I want to try SUV camping, but I still haven’t figured out how to make a comfortable bed. Many YT posts say their setup is so comfortable and they sleep like a baby, but so far, I haven’t been able to create a cozy bed in my SUV. I’ll keep following your journey and hope that you find a solution.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! It is literally the most important thing to me - sleep! And safety.

[@subarusu5937]

Hi, Dani!!! So sorry to hear about the crash😢 I wanted to share with you that I’ve car camped in my subi & I’m 5’9… it can be done. But you’ll be so much more comfortable to have a tent or something with you to store all the crap you gotta take with you. I’m a little older than you, but it’s a challenge for me to be comfortable trying to flip around in my vehicle. It can be done, but planning ahead is key. Wish you the best on your journey & hope to meet you one day in Mo or Ar 😊 Reach out if you have any questions that I can help with. Susan

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much! You’re so kind! 😊😊😊

[@leanne7306]

I hope you do it!! I have wanted a van for about four years now and it hasn't happened yet. I too am desperately wanting to travel and have thought about car camping to make sure that I will even like it before buying a van. I'm pretty sure that I will love it. I am 5'9" and xl. I don't think I would last long in the back seat or with my legs in the trunk like some others do, but I have seen some who lay down the front seat (w/o the headrest) and make a bed out of the front and back seat on the passenger side. I think it is doable. I would like to go to the rtr. I've never been. Maybe I'll see you there.😊 p.s. I love your excitement!!😍

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you so much! I hope I get to meet you down the road! 💖

[@brendaschoonover245]

i bought a short bus, it's not complete but i'm hoping to start traveling after my last son graduates.Im 58 i'd love to start some type of remote work? Im like you i need some form of income during my travels.Youre real and inspiring!☮️💞💪

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Short bus sounds so fun! I’m so glad you’re here! 😊😊😊

[@angiebeggs3500]

Best wishes for your new adventures, I had wondered why I hadn't seen your videos pop up!!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much!

[@melodyjennings7782]

Remember that Sue Ann from HOWA lived years in her Toyota PRIUS!!

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Great reminder!!! 💖

[@gailclapton6050]

Hey - love your updates. Would you not consider getting a tent for having a roof over your head at night but do everything else out of your car?

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

It’s a possibility. I haven’t done much tent camping but it’s worth exploring. Thanks for being here!

[@juliespencer2588]

I believe you can car camp knowing that it is only temporary. Also Toyotas can last a long time past other brands. If your back seat can fold down you will have more room in the back than you think. I car camp in a 1995 Toyota wagon and am a size 2x person but I am only 5’6”. You have this. Looking forward to see what you decide ❤️❤️❤️

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much! My back seats do NOT fold down, so it’s a challenge for sure!

[@kristineshields6005]

Check out the possibility of removing the back seats. In such a way that you can reinstall them, all you have to do is store the seats inside where there safe and and get subjected to fluctuating weather conditions that can affect the integrity of the seats. It will give you an enormous amount of space that you probably wouldn't have expected. There are also quite a lot of videos regarding car camping. I would suggest following some of them that are very open about what it takes to convert a car into a car camper. Follow them and start engaging in dialogue with them. I have 2 vans that have major mechanical issues that I have to deal with. One has an issue that I know will cost about $7000 to fix which I'm on disability SSDI.I​@YouAndMeLivingFree

[@kristineshields6005]

Sorry I had to end the comment before I was ready. It wouldn't let me type anymore... my other Van has an electrical issue that would cost quite a bit to be traced and fixed and of course, I'm back to my problem of very limited income. I too have spent some time homeless. I am going to check out your patreon. I support a couple of other people that I feel are very deserving, even though I have very limited funds to contribute. I love how positive your attitude is and really would like to help. Those little bits of dollars do add up.❤🎉 i am now only five foot tall, due To surgery. My biggest weight used to be two hundred and fifty pounds, which is a lot when you're just a little short thing. I honestly believe you can do this and overcome your trials.

[@originalsixx]

I used to own a Toyota wagon many years ago. I miss that car!!!

[@dannysenaun7726]

Thanks

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank YOU!!! 😊

[@lindaalaniz7129]

I hope it works out for you. 😊

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I hope so too! 😊😊😊

[@mediumtraceylockwood]

❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

🙌💖☀️🙌

[@patriciapark7287]

Is it safe to car camp? Nice to have a role model, leader, & friend from afar, especially since I'm somewhat isolated and limited in resources right now. I can have your company & friendship & live through your experiences, and that eases the difficulties in my life. I hope you feel some benefit from me being here, as well

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Absolutely! I’m glad you’re here. 💖💖💖

[@originalsixx]

I'm going to the RTR this year. It will be my first time there and first really long road trip. I'm so excited to go! I hope you can make it. I'd love to meet you. Good luck to you.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I hope so too!! Thanks for being here!

[@lindatuttle9188]

I enjoy so far what I have seen of your journey! I understand your concerns of car camping! I am a fellow “fatty” 🤣 I sure hope it works out for you while you save for a new van!

[@katherinemcconnell1531]

….😘That’s Pleasantly Plump🥰….

[@lindatuttle9188]

@@katherinemcconnell1531 🥰 you said it much better! Ty

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much Linda! I’m glad you’re here! 💖

[@kimsargeant8126]

I say, “yes you can car camp”…that’s from someone who really does not enjoy camping in the minivan I bought specifically for camping. I take a 54# dog with me and I’m just not comfortable.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Hmmm. It really is different for every person. Are you looking at changing vehicles?

[@kimsargeant8126]

@@YouAndMeLivingFree it is different for everyone. Part of the reason I’m not comfortable is that I probably should replace my bed, which would be cheaper than buying a larger van 🤓 I know you’ve stayed away from the NorthEast, I just want you to know that I have plenty of room for you to visit for free.

[@naturelover1284]

Yeah just driving to work is so stressful people don't use directionals and there's crap all over the road and no one gets pulled over anymore that's the part I wouldn't want

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

It has its challenges, to be sure! 😊

[@RobertMesa-fu9oy]

I lost my van after living in it for three years im now saving money to get another one will take about a year of saving

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’m sorry you lost your van. I hope you get another one soon!

[@laurascott9189]

💗💗💗

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

😊😊😊

[@cdnbuddy5798]

New van correction

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

😊😊😊

[@samanthadodd8112]

Thought of buying a little tab or something similiar to pull by the camry. I'm bigger than u and I nap all the time in my camry.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Good to know! Thanks for sharing! I’m going to take my blinders off and try to see more possibilities.

[@monnablack7263]

it is in your head... I was in a tornado.. took my house and both SUV.. surprised me how much it was okay to lose things. and we were okay.. and it was awesome when I did find something on the ground and it was okay.. do not wait.. and get a job... work from home job. they are out there... JUST DO IT... and car camp is not the way.. also a chance to do KETO. lol Carnivore... and fasting. win / win and your body will feel amazing too ... not about the fat. but about extra energy .. and feel amazing. I wish you the BEST.. cargo van... work from home job... and KETO ..lol you got this.

[@monnablack7263]

and love watching these videos ...yours and others.

[@monnablack7263]

and if you lay all the seats down ...from back to passenger seat.. it is quite long

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thank you! 😊😊😊

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

😊😊😊

[@WarriorGirl_113]

I appreciate your vid's, and am wishing for you that sum1 here may have a van that is available for you to receive!!! =-) TC

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Thanks so much, TC!!! 💖

[@rvgrandmacharlotte4604]

Do your back seats fold down?

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

Nope. 😭

[@nancymoon1189]

Dani if you can tow with your car perhaps a cargo trailer is the answer. Not very expensive, you can stand and have a real bed. That way you keep your beloved car and can zip into town and hold your spot on blm.

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’ve done some research on this but can’t find anything that’s recommended for my car to tow. Maybe I need to look again! Several say - can tow with car or suv, but when I get into the fine print they disqualify themselves. If you have any specifics in mind, let me know where to look. And thanks a bunch!

[@Nola504Nola]

Your insurance claim will put you in another van

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I didn’t have full coverage. 💖

[@dannysenaun7726]

Greeting from England, sorry for your loss but I am so happy you are OK and continuing with your passion. I have made several car camping trips since the beginning of this year and absolute enjoy it. Thanks to your ' if I can do it, you can do it too!' A bit cramp but car camping is doable. Hopefully yours too. 4:30

[@YouAndMeLivingFree]

I’m so glad to hear it! Thanks! 😊