RESOURCEFUL VAN Life: How One Nomad Thrives on $1,100 a Month

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In this video, we meet David, who lives on $1,175 per month from Social Security. For 2.5 years, he's embraced van life in a 1989 Dodge Van with a 20-inch high top, creating a cozy home. He also pulls a homebuilt trailer with a full-size freezer, allowing him to stay off-grid longer. David's story is a testament to simple, efficient, and resourceful living.
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Thanks for watching!

[@mgraham_Indiana]

No place felt like home anymore after his wife passed. What a nice guy. I can certainly understand his feelings. Enjoy your travels, meeting people, and be safe. Thanks for the video and introducing us to another good human.

[@genespell4340]

That young man is the kind of person you want as a friend.

[@homelessnomad101]

I surely know what feelings he went through loosing his wife, my wife just past this past Wednesday, on the 15th of August. Now I'm prepping to sell all our belongings to move into my pick uptruck cab (for now) then I don't know what's next. Rock on Dave-in-The-Desert. 😊

[@PapagenoMF]

@@homelessnomad101 So sorry for your loss.

[@denisekenney6436]

@@homelessnomad101So sorry for the loss of your wife sir…

[@ftkinsella]

I know just how he is feeling. I can’t wait to sell the home of 41 years. I am lost!!! How do you forget 38 years of marriage, together 42. Another amazing Videooo. Thanks Bob

[@CircumcizeURhearts]

Man.. an 89 dodge! This man is a treasure. Hope he does well and always ends up in the right place at the right time. God bless

[@lisaroth7526]

I have a feeling there's quite a few people out here whose spouses have passed away. I understand how no place but the van felt like home, because they shared that together. Good man, helping others. It isn't all about money. I've been on the road for just about 2 years now and for me the saving grace is the people who have become my friends. I imagine he's feeling the same.

[@seanh4841]

I met a lady in an RV in New Zealand, she was 93 years old, her and her husband had set out on the road, he passed, so she just kept rolling

[@HoboGardenerBen]

Sounds like you have a good perspective :)

[@HeatherJacobs-r5h]

David is a genuinely decent guy. I could hear the love he had for his wife when he talked about the decorating. Too bad she passed because she would love what he has done with his life. You are a wonderful, humble man, David.❤ Heather Ontario 🇨🇦

[@DebZaragoza]

This is similar to what my grandfather did for almost 15 years after my grandmother passed away. He never lived in a house of his own after she passed. He was always traveling around the west, visiting family, and living out of his truck and camper. He did that from 1970 until his health forced him to stop in 1985. He passed away in 1987. RIP Grandpa! He is the reason I have the travel bug!

[@AllyMcFancysp1xn]

What a sweet story. I have a similar one. My parents bought a brand-new 17-foot Bigfoot trailer in 1989. They traveled all over the U.S. in it, but had a conventional home in California as a home base. My Mom passed away in 1998, and my Dad was so heartbroken he decided to sell the trailer -- to me -- for $1. Then, I hitched up that little trailer to my Jeep and traveled all over the U.S. for almost 7 years, going to a lot of the places they had been to. It was the perfect healing therapy not only for me, but for my Dad as well, knowing I was "picking up the torch." He talked about my adventures to everyone he knew; he passed in 2010, and I know he was a happy man at the end.

[@cooperdog9956]

That is a kick in the gut, "No place felt like home.......but this did".

[@katieclay3641]

David put my cutting board in my trailer in just mins, i think he has alot of talent. Love you David see ya this winter.

[@araina5896]

What a wonderful man... I love how he still honors his late wife by continuing to wear his wedding band🥲. I wish this man all the best🙏

[@alexanderweaver7066]

David and I have similar stories. My wife passed away from cancer three years ago. I bought a gently used 2019 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van and all I did was move my man cave from my house in Virginia into my van. My set up is simple using two small Jackery batteries. My heater is a Mr. Heater Buddy. Minimalist set up with no major issues in three years. Gas, regular oil changes and a new set of Duravis off road tires. I am a retired Air Force veteran who had 63 years of backpacking experience. I absolutely love the nomad van life. To date I have traveled 35,000 miles of our beautiful country ❤️ ♥️ .

[@HoboGardenerBen]

That's wonderful. Backpacking experience makes vanlife look luxurious, it was my wntry point into minimalism too. Not nearly as much experience backpacking as you, but slept many many nights outside, stationary camping.

[@jenniferdyke3335]

Clearly, David is one of those "Jack of all trade" people who likely finds all projects worth the time and challenge to save money wherever he can. I have a lot of respect for folks like that -- he'd be a great guy to run into if you were in trouble out on the road!❤

[@usatennisproff]

I would love to meet this guy

[@rexannam2646]

It's great that he has those skills. Wish I did 😢.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

Amazing what people feel are so important to their lives. We all have different priorities. I am glad he's helping others with their builds.

[@tanelisalokangas8649]

Yay David!!!! David and another friend Dianne helped me rebuild my fifth wheel bathroom to get the mould out in the New Mexico heat!

[@mickeybrumfield764]

Bob knows more about how to live the nomad lifestyle than anyone.

[@WisconsinWanderer]

Honorable gentleman true to his wife and family, golden man. Thanks guys

[@scraps270]

Thanks Bob I'm living on 1185 a month so this content is very helpful.

[@MrJJSimonds]

David needs that trailer to carry his heart around... ;)

[@amyd1549]

Perfect statement!

[@amyd1549]

Perfect statement!

[@danthesquirrel]

I have 3 years left before I can semi-retire to a truck camper life and the financial realities of a wage slave life keep whittling away at the dreams I had of a great rig to spend the remainder of my life in. It is heartening to see person after person on this channel that managed to live good free lives on less money than I will likely have. I can only imagine what it must be like: Resting whenever I am tired, having all my days filled with what I choose to do and not what I am forced to do. No ever present sword of homelessness hanging over my head ever again. I would happily eat every dinner out of a can for such a life.

[@derrick1964]

I love hearing people’s stories.

[@JennyLeiviska]

David is the one nicest people I have met on the road. Awesome rig!!!!

[@tomallen8296]

Since I also am a carnivore and it was great to see how David is living as one. His approach is very interesting.

[@caroletomlinson5480]

“Ya gotta at least have wrecker money”😂 Great attitude, as well as essential planning.👍

[@timgoodsell4053]

Great video. What a pleasant, humble guy. So touching about his decision after his wife’s passing.

[@GwenMotoGirl]

I’m retired and I have a home and I’m ok, but inflation and insurance, property taxes, well, we all know it’s a fine line. These nice men, David and Bob, give me security for my future in that I have options and can still live well, likely better. I am 90% carnivore for health reasons and I never thought I could swing it on the road, but I see that I could. Well done! Or in this case, medium rare. 😊 Thank you for sharing.

[@StacyHackney-z2x]

Nice man, nice home. He's smart to take advantage of sales with his freezer.

[@Twelvestonestacking]

Regardless of money needs...it has been said...and I fully embrace this notion "every man Has to Have a mountain to climb"! You can only go get the mail and cut the grass SO many times in a day!

[@AuntyJack123]

Best thing I heard in 15 minutes of video is this awesome bloke is a carnivore 😊 no wonder he sounds clever and looks in great shape 👍

[@ravenwolf79]

With all that solar and battery power, you could just put in a small electric heater and forget about the little buddy heater. Safer, and you could leave it on without ventilation. You have really learned the secret to a good life. 😊 joyous travels!

[@RiDankulous]

He certainly has an excellent amount of power. 3000 W inverter in the van and 1000 W inverter in the trailer. If I ever do build, I wanna have Internet access probably via cell phone, but it requires power for a computer. I surf on the web on the phone mostly

[@Rlaplante73]

David carved out a nice life for himself after the passing of his wife. Affordable, with the freedom to live on a lean budget. Blessings!

[@cheryltrosper8108]

What a sweet, nice guy and quite resourceful.

[@mtaylor2901]

Thank you David in the Desert and Bob for such a great visit and tour! Gosh, when David said no place felt like home after his wife passed I thought that’s one of the truest things I’ve ever heard. Such an honest and profound statement/sentiment…. Safe and happy travels! 🚐

[@gratefulgram]

What a kind, gentle spirit he has. Loved his build as he did a great job repurposing things. Thanks again Bob. Much love and many blessings

[@beverlyyoung4989]

A gentle spirit. I wish him the very best. Van life has all types, and his type is awesome!

[@dalecummins689]

3 years ago, I also lost my wife of the 33 years during Covid. Still house bound, but maybe one of these days, I'll break free from these bills and get some traveling in.

[@amynaddra7230]

Great job and genuine living. His wife is with him in spirit. Bravo!!!

[@Locd4life707-yv4jj]

He has everything he needs. I love his rig and how he used furniture from his home. I'm two years into van life & I tell you. There is less stress even with less money! Don't contemplate if you're thinking of doing it Just do it!

[@angelaratzay9034]

David you are amazing so clever. Sorry your wife has gone to her reward in heaven. Beautiful the way you honor her memory.love you rig. My colors. I have a caravan using same decor . Yours looks so comfortable. Glad you keep busy helps one from the mind going where it hurts. Wish you joy and good health,thank you. 😊

[@NomadicApril]

David is such a nice guy! He put my solar panels on my roof this past winter down in quartzite

[@j.b.a.124]

What a nice guy..! Wish David all the best in the world. Greetings from Florida.

[@jessicah1807]

Great video, David! David is truly a kind person and I’m proud to call him my friend.

[@janetkoball44]

I think he did a real good job on both the trailer and the storage trailer. Good job . Thanks Bob

[@AllyMcFancysp1xn]

What a sweet man. He took a devastating situation and turned it into something positive. His setup is perfect for him; love his ingenuity. He proves you can live comfortably, travel, and make life-long friends with a bit of resourcefulness.

[@johnbecay6887]

i love old furniture in nomad living. it connects to our past. pioneer families, pushing west with all their belongings, would have a treasured dresser or bureau in the covered wagon.

[@OkieJammer2736]

Thank you for making this connection. The covered wagon - before the automobile - carried beloved heirlooms too. They really were the original campervans. 😊

[@Buck_Jones1909]

What a nice human being! I watch this channel to remind myself that generally people are nice! I’m going to subscribe to David’s channel! Thank you both very much!

[@realmicrobet]

Real nice guy. I camped near him at one of the HOWA builds.

[@4dnblovelyfe769]

Wow...absolutely LOVE THIS That deep freezer...YES

[@danthesquirrel]

A deep freezer is a quality of life upgrade that is rarely seen among nomads but that would be super awesome to be able to not pass on good deals on frozen food and score some great deal on a big package of meat, grill it all and vacuum seal it to enjoy for months. When you are poor there is also something psychologically comforting knowing your future will have food in it.

[@Zorazora1234]

I enjoyed this interview. Very genuine sincere man

[@kellie-u2i]

A super guy. And fellow carnivore! No wonder you are so sharp. Good luck my friend. Safe travels

[@dyannejohnson6184]

Thank you David for your heartfelt-honest hearted reason for reason for van life….i love your storage trailer……I appreciate the vehicle…age for tinkering…..exfarmer!

[@angeliaphillips]

This ranks as one of my fav Bob Welks interviews.

[@lindawilson8434]

Me too

[@courtneysands6646]

Who's Bob Welks?

[@karenmiller6088]

Wow! He did an awesome job on that rig!! ❤

[@MARKCANEER]

Great video from a couple of really nice guys. Thank You Both for sharing your travels.🙏👍

[@constancefaulkner9002]

Hello from Gulfport Mississippi. This man is an inspiration. I hope to meet him (and others like him) whenever I get to go on the road.

[@Shannon-u8v]

I'm impressed with his energy and he seems to be genuinely happy! Alot more than people who have it all. I'm understanding that less is truly more. Good job! Safe travels

[@ramontoro]

Hello from Puerto Rico Bob and friends

[@Terirn65]

Really liked David’s build. I love his helpfulness with the community of RV, van lifers. The idea of pulling a trailer like he does is great, it gives him a studio per se. no extra clutter. I’d just be concerned for the weight. Love the freezer idea, however I wouldn’t want one that big, maybe half that, but it makes perfect sense! I’ve messaged him via his YT. Love, love your videos Bob, each and every one of them‼️ God uses you is such a special way! Teresa. 🌼🙂

[@IvyRosethebus]

David! So good to see your interview. Excellent 😃job. Thanks Bob.

[@billwiley7216]

This guy is doing okay, with the trailer if he would find him a 200-250cc dual sport motorcycle to use as his local plus backup transportation (which he could carry in the trailer when on the road) in the event the van broke down then this would be maybe the perfect set up for affordable boondock living. Older vehicles pre things like the computer controlled overdrive transmission and every subsystem including the dash having its own computer or chip required to operate that can be more easily owner repaired or worked on too me make the best candidates for this type of lifestyle.

[@gailjohnson6670]

Very handy and smart man. Very nice build. Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.

[@einzgeisha]

I hope he continues to enjoy his wonderful travels and in the home where he felt like home with his late wife. I love that he is very resourceful and figured out the circuitry (that stuff scares me since I haven't that knowledge.)

[@andyroach420]

A gentle man who loved his wife. What a great guy

[@jennslifeinhuntingtonwv2678]

He's got everything 😊

[@julieannesimms981]

What a great set up loving the man cave 😊😊😊😊

[@panchamama]

Good man, has priorities straight .

[@oliveraerobatix]

Heart warming this gentleman hasn’t left his wife behind.

[@pimacanyon6208]

2 1/2 years on the road... I wonder whether having to move camp every couple of weeks gets to be old after a while? Or, do full time RVers just park it somewhere for longer periods, like at Quartzite in the winter? I would miss having a home base, but a home base costs a lot of money. Maybe do as Bob has done a video or two on: Buy land where you can park your rig for long periods of time?

[@faithevolution552]

Thanks for interviewing him...He's inspiring! I love the way he used furniture from home to build his van. It's heartwarming. ❤

[@sonja8942]

Very industrious man of great character and I wish him well!

[@noahriding5780]

When you have a home built trailer, how do you make sure how much weight you can have in it without breaking an axle? And with the leaf springs (?) (I think this is the part that helps affect that?).

[@ladikmk]

Sweet man with a nice, friendly attitude towards life. Not a fancy build, but has everything he needs and as handy as he is, will surely last him a very long time. Thanks for sharing Bob.

[@tikitavi7120]

Resourceful guy, I wish him the best!

[@bencuraza6503]

Good for this Gentleman Living His Best Life💪😎👍

[@aprilbaxter2578]

Very nice video. David seems to be happy and enjoying living his best life. I'm glad he honors his wife the way he does. I wish him all the best.

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Outstanding. Dave really can stretch those dollars!

[@rebelgirl7289]

What a lovely man. So kind and resourceful. I'll check out his channel. Thanks, Bob.

[@Shannon-w8t]

Bob, can you do a video on exactly what needs to be purchased for an off grid solar set up? And recommend the cheapest route.

[@kimberlyknight4973]

Wow such a great interview David seems like a nice guy. I love the van and trailer he has everything.

[@jamesderr1344]

I love his Robert Duvall like laugh.

[@1wolfpup]

He has a nice set up! He seems like a nice guy. Thanks Bob.

[@christina3521]

Always appreciate these videos! 🙂

[@bvcmargie5887]

Another great interview Bob! David is a nice man and so amazingly handy! One could learn a lot . I hope for great success in his Van Life and I'm looking forward to following him on KZbin.

[@sheraldownham9178]

Thanks I'm going to follow David I'm 64 and trying to go vanlife next year

[@carriecreates1207]

He was very pleasant and I wish him the best!

[@winsome6705]

I can't wait to get out there this January meet these lovely people I see on here in person❤

[@khakicampbell6640]

Good job David! What a nice setup. I really like that you have a garage/tool shed on wheels. So essential! 👍

[@tyman2007]

Proud of you David. Good job man.

[@MaxMiniTV]

One of my favorite people EVER! Love you, David!

[@jennyjohns2012]

Super nice guy. Have the privilege of knowing him.😌

[@margaretnegenman5700]

Me too. He helped me with a small project for my van. Fun to see him in a HOWA video. 😊

[@dross24MA]

FINALLY, someone who is carrying the extra necessities with them instead of tossing everything out in order to "fit" into a van! Too bad he isn't closer ( ast coast) so I could utilize his knowledge and skills and help refill his coffers =;^)

[@jeremytorgersen]

I enjoy these interviews and tours the best. The simplicity, creativity, and down to earth people like this that enjoy helping others.

[@User-cd8ry]

This guy is amazing, very handy and humble.

[@seanh4841]

Wonderful chap

[@edsmachine93]

Nice story with David. Thanks for sharing Bob. Have a great weekend. 👍 🇺🇸

[@billliston2335]

Dave is an awesome guy goes to show what a little talent can do...good to see you my friendly friend

[@ramonapuckett3059]

Thank you, Bob and David, for a great video ❤

[@GramsMusick158]

Amazing amount of knowledge! He could probably fix anything?!

[@rwarren108]

I love it!! 😍 I just got me a 2001 Dodge 15 pass/extended 3500 van.. with the thought that eventually I can haul a trailer/kitchen. What I miss the most in van life.. I started living in mine last year when I went back to school. One more year of that then the van should be in shape for some real adventures. I do wish I had a high top roof though! Maybe eventually 😊. Party on my friend love to see people living their genuine life.

[@scottdorsey8220]

What a treat! This guy is very ingenious and simply delightful! Loved the storage trailer. Makes all the sense in the world.

[@CountryComesToTown]

What a great guy and van setup! Thanks Bob!

[@Cargocampman]

Nice man hope everything goes well for him