Scariest VanLife Day EVER | Welcome to Washington! (and sleeping at a Wal-Mart for the first time.)

Thank you so much for being here!
I love getting to know all of you so introduce yourself in the comments.
My first few days in Washington were peaceful and pretty. I spent some time on the Columbia River before continuing on. Then I had the scariest experience in my van so far.
Avery Park: 45.66251, -121.03700
Rufus Kite Surfing Spot: 45.69380, -120.75496
Thanks to you guys (my subscribers and friends) again for being here. If you're new here, subscribe for more (mini) VanLife content, as well as travel, adventure and becoming a digital nomad.
xoxo
Send Me Love Letters:
Chantelle Torrey
19550 Amber Meadow dr.
Suite 130 - 127
Bend, Or 97702
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Music from the KZbin studio library and Oak Studios.

[@marijohoffmann1906]

We are campervan campers too. When you set up camp, I would recommend that you set out two chairs so it is not obvious that you are alone.

[@lanabanana4006]

Single Vamper with a toddler - it’s a great idea to set out two adult chairs!!!

[@courtneyoneal8845]

Next time you find yourself going up a steep hill switch into 3rd gear.

[@marshaduncan6587]

I was thinking the exact same thing. I also went as far as thinking I would make a black silhouette cutout of a head and put it next to my window. Lol. 👤 😂

[@catherinebiggs8162]

I totally agree!

[@phxmateo]

since we have the 2nd amendment you might want to think about that.

[@roseboudreaux4645]

We old folks come in handy sometimes. 🤣😂

[@speteydog2260]

100% true!!! 👍🏻💕

[@debracottrill7989]

Your wisdom is so important. Speak up even if you don't think anyone's listening. People will realize the gift when the time is right. 💚☮

[@dianestutchman3932]

That older gentleman was your angel that day. So thankful you, Joey and van are all right!!!

[@emarm100]

There are angels among us.

[@tinabaglien901]

Chantelle, I have been following your channel since you started to build your van. I just wanted say how I can still feel your fear. Thank You for Angels. They appear in many different ways. I am so, so happy you and sweet Joey are safe. Btw, I am born in Seattle, however I am actually in Miami just now. I hope when the next wrtr/rtr is, that you come to it! It would be great to meet you. Love your videos, you definitely deliver good content. Tina

[@papasmurf1904]

I would bet very seriously that the old gentleman was exactly that! I believe wholeheartedly in the mystic beings.....as a long-haul truck driver, i have my own tales to tell! =)

[@conniewatson6437]

Yes, too bad she could only keep referring to him as "the old man" because he may be watching this. Did you ever ask a name? And he was probably not even that old. ha

[@debracottrill7989]

@@papasmurf1904 have you thought of having a podcast? I'm sure it would be awesome to listen to.😀

[@lawrencek9748]

Good tires make a massive difference in traction in all situations. May want to consider a beefier all terrain tire. It also helps to walk the road a little bit to see what you're getting into. Stay safe!

[@J_Dubs]

Yes, tires! Also, not sure of the power/torque that minivan has (and if it's 4 wheel drive) but it doesn't seem like the ideal car to take up a steep gravel grade road.

[@phxmateo]

when you replace your tire, just get snow tires.

[@patmoore4793]

Do you have a lower gear in your van to get you up steep roads.

[@ndlz1]

🙏🏻 Relieved you and Joey are safe, and sound. Old man was a guardian angel of sorts I’d say.

[@LL-lj1kq]

💯

[@celestepalm6949]

Steep roads are only safe if they're paved well. Gravel roads, not so much. Glad you're OK! Here I was expecting that your scariest experience was going to be at Walmart. Who else thought that?

[@bemaat6723]

I did too.

[@zoram671]

Whats the reason at walmart??

[@celestepalm6949]

@@zoram671 The hugeness of Walmart parking lots are infamous for scum preying on folks walking back to their vehicles at night, especially women.

[@zoram671]

@@celestepalm6949 thank you so much....

[@christysdeals4u]

so true! we live off gravel with no hills/inclines and the neighbor says she kept going off the road when she first moved out here and one night someone ended up in the ditch on our corner.. was not even bad weather.

[@ritajimmie3361]

I was having anxiety when you told us what happened. You had an angel watching over you. Stay safe

[@celestepalm6949]

Ain't that the truth!

[@catherinebiggs8162]

I’m so sorry you had a scary day! Gotta tell you… in the situation you were in the tow you got was likely THE BEST thing that could have happened. My experience with triple A is that they are wonderful but often overwhelmed and busy so you may have had to wait longer. I know the money part sucks but your immediate safety was the most important thing. I think it all worked out the way it was meant to.

[@nomadicfoodie6286]

Yes, what Catherine Biggs said. I have worked call centers and most tow services go through Agero, campervans, are covered sporadically and getting a tow can take HOURS, you did not have the time. I would never have thought to call 911 - though I would have overseas - how odd is that! The local cops know who to call for a tow and likely you got a good deal in the middle of nowhere like that. Good call not getting out of the van.

[@hazztv6317]

@@nomadicfoodie6286 not only that she is so brave. Can you imagine. So glad she is ok and the dog❤️❤️

[@vonisaac2756]

You 2 are safe and that's all that matters. Hard to believe I've been following you over a year now 😱 But it's been a wonderful journey !

[@anydayanytimegarretts4400]

Check your tires, they probably need to be upgraded and or replaced. Glad you two are doing better. Be well and stay safe ❗ #thevelvetloungelife 💫☺️💫

[@suerop]

I'm glad you and Joey are both ok. Thanks to your senior angel for stopping to help. 💕😁 I'm enjoying your journey.

[@Tinalynn...]

In scary situations like that, your brain is in panic mode and AAA ISN'T your first thought! I've had it for years and forget about it. I constantly kill my battery charging my stuff 😆 and would wait around for someone to stop instead of remembering AAA! I finally purchased a go power flashlight/jump starter/usb charger at walmart. It's amazing! Anyway, I'm so glad you're safe and don't beat yourself up for being in that panic mode😘

[@leishagreenleaf833]

Omg! Chantelle that is so scary !!!! Glad you and Joe are ok !!! That scenario has always scared me !

[@jexca_2052]

Omg I started crying when you said you handed over Joey to the old man to save him 😭😭🤍🤍🤍

[@ourspace1959]

I would have been petrified. Wow, God sent you a guardian angel. I'm glad you got out. AAA would have taken longer

[@jtwanderer6328]

AAAHH!! What a roller coaster! So glad you're safe. Yes, just driving for miles and miles after trauma turns off the brain ;-) Loved Duffy's Pub and the nourishing rain forest. Thanks for sharing even the bad travel events. Happy Travels to you and your precious Joey.

[@tannerstravels1254]

OMG how scary, I would have done the same even though I have roadside assistance. So glad you are safe. This video was really cool for me because I saw my van. This is Frederick Tanner/TannersTravels, we met briefly outside of Rufus Oregon. I was in the maroon Ford minivan. Thank you so much for taking the time and talking with me. I really enjoy watching your videos, your always so happy. Look forward to the next!

[@JulieAiken]

"Goonies"! Sorry, Astoria, Oregon does that to me! Thank you for a wonderful, inspiring channel. Oh, by the way, I was traveling through the Rockies with my mom in a light but slippery snow, and I was having a hard time not slipping and sliding off the road or losing control going downhill. A guardian angel in a pick-up truck got close behind and followed us the whole way -- not menacing or tailgating, just being a presence so that I felt there was someone to help if we got in trouble. There are a lot of kind strangers in the world.

[@shannacraft4099]

🌼 Thank God you were rescued and Joey and you are okay. I love that little bitty town!!! 💙💙💙

[@dalenezender5556]

Sorry that happened to you. It sounds so scary. You probably did the right thing. AAA probably could not have gotten there that quick. Don’t second-guess yourself.

[@Starfish2145]

AAA dispatches local tow trucks. It would’ve been the same thing except free. 🤦‍♀️

[@JolieUTU]

So glad you are safe, & that adorable little town with the tiny home fairy cottages was just everything. I would have never left there!💜🧡❤️💙💛💖💗🫶🏻👍

[@luckypenny822]

So happy you didn't experience any loss of you van! Most of all you and Joey are safe! Love your videos 🥰

[@amyfollmer1412]

Oh no I am so sorry. My heart goes to you and Joey. You are incredible.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Thank you so much, Amy.❤

[@amyfollmer1412]

You are welcome

[@StudioGrossman]

that is when you put the car in L gear. that is low gear. It takes getting use to and always drive down a steep hill in Low gear.

[@ruthieclarke9125]

Good advice!

[@supposedly1-2]

or up a hill in low or 1 or 2 , too!

[@rchoi27]

Good to know!!

[@doloresreynolds8145]

Also, have your transmission fluid changed often if you drive mountains much.

[@julieflores5583]

Oh my I'm so glad and relieved that you and Joey are okay!

[@superdramaqueen21]

I am sorry that this happened to you, and I am so glad that you are safe. Take care and stay safe!

[@donnyt857]

So grateful you and Joey are okay 🙏💛

[@hazztv6317]

Me2🙏❤️

[@charlottewilson4680]

FYI Let Triple AAA know about this and they possibly will reimburse you. It is worth a try.

[@petmom74]

They should. Progressive reimbursed me.

[@lindaohia6938]

Low gear next time and better tires. 🥰

[@freerangeboogie7293]

AAA might have taken longer. It all worked out:) Walmart vs hotel makes up for money spent on the tow. Money well spent.

[@rchoi27]

Yes. This happened to me and in the rush I didn't think but the locksmith who helped me gave me a receipt to file for reimbursement with my insurance, which I did. There weren't any issues there from the insurance.

[@danbailey96]

@@lindaohia6938 or learn to drive is another option

[@tracykellison8682]

I went to tongue point job corps in Astoria, got my G.E.D. there, it's such a pretty place, when it's not foggy & raining! lol

[@angelagentry562]

Girl…😱 I was wondering where you were. You know going up the west coast is my favorite thing. I’m so sorry you had this scary experience but very happy you are ok 👍🏽. Thanks for sharing all the beautiful footage….happy trails, until next time. Keep 🌟 Shining ~ Big Love 💗

[@zkat13]

Totally scary moment, but look at you!! A year on the road, like a rock star!! These last couple videos have been so beautiful. I always look forward to your videos. 💜

[@cotter9751]

Thanks for the update! So glad you, Joey and the van are safe!!

[@ArizonaGypsyMark]

OMG, thank God you're alright. What a scary situation. You handled that really, really well 🙏👍🙏

[@jennifergraham612]

All is well, that is what matters. good luck with your travels.

[@sjordan7085]

I love trains, and my two year old grand-daughter literally cries when they leave. Sounds like a perfect spot for us to train spot!

[@karenroe6270]

Omgoodness you are in my part of the world. I'm from the tri cities area. Pasco Kennewick Richland. The river is absolutely beautiful and sometimes a bit cooler. You picked a hot time to come.....but the weather is crazy these days. Have a blessed week 🧚‍♀️💖🌟

[@ruthieclarke9125]

Had more than my share of scary experiences that I had a gut feeling the situation was sketchy . You are very brave and got through it intact and back on the road. A valuable lesson learned. I am so glad you and Joey and the van got through it ok. I was hoping you would be stopping at Haystack Rock in Cannon Beach, OR. It's really breathtaking. Loved this vlog.

[@sandramcmillan4200]

So glad you and Joe are ok. AAA probably would have taken forever. 😊❤

[@teresasanchez8853]

That old man may be watching this and thinking... old man? Who's the old man? That child thinks I'm old!? So glad that you are all safe and enjoying your life.😍

[@starlightpam8579]

Do you have some off-road or beefier tires ... might help. Or, just stay away from gravel roads going uphill. We all want you to be safe. ✌🏼

[@daijav9488]

Glad you were able to keep your home and stay safe. Such a blessing.

[@ericnorthman9410]

I LOVE YOU WANTED TO SAVE JOEY . Your reactions are the same I would have done. You're alright Chantell

[@jeepsahara333]

I got anxiety just hearing you tell the story of the van rolling back down the hill 😱 Glad you’re both ok! I LOVED the nature setting in Twilight ✨- looking forward to your next adventures. Safe travels 💚💚💚

[@aniassantiago6445]

Bless ur heart! I'm so glad you guys are safe and that that gentleman happen to come along when he did! You may wanna think about beefier tires and driving in low gear when traversing steep inclines. I just left WV and my van did better up gravel forest roads in lower gears. Stay safe and happy travels! So glad u 2 are ok

[@tonijones3454]

You must have been absolutely terrified! I’m so glad that you and Joey and your van/home are all ok

[@MsJanet]

Wow, Chantelle, I’m so glad you and Joey are ok!

[@stephaniejohnson583]

That must have been sooo stressful! So glad you and Joey (and the minivan) are all safe!

[@janetbaumgardner7492]

I would have felt the same too. We are all glad you and Joey are okay. NO more hilly gravel steep roads. Enjoy the rest of your adventures..stay safe❤

[@sassykat2000]

My goodness that's a harrowing experience! I'm so glad that guy was driving by and could stay until you had help there. Great to see all worked out well. ❤ Hey to Joey! ❤🐾❤

[@charmainestrong797]

I’m relieved everything worked out for you and that your safe

[@marilynthomas643]

Thank goodness both you and Joey are safe after what could have turned into a really bad situation!! Thank you for the beautiful scenery and “our” drive along the coast. Congratulations on making it to almost one year in your travels.

[@kathybest6950]

I’m so glad you and Joey are okay. Listening to you describe what happened was terrifying. I’m glad you and Joey are safe and have started on your adventures in Washington.

[@jenniferrose7380]

Thank goodness you and Joey are safe. Your journey is one to see. 🙏🌎✌️🏞️

[@nikkisanders6283]

So glad you are both safe. Enjoy Washington!

[@G.Photogirl]

What a scary experience, glad that you, Joey, and your van made it out ok! I wouldn't have thought that a gravel hill could have that effect on tires, but good to know.

[@jackieskaggs1767]

So glad you and Joey are safe. That man was your guardian angel. I hope you took a moment to thank God for protecting you. I liked the way you did the voice over as you were showing your location and the scenery. That was a cool little town. I think I would have gone in the Pub and found a willing ear and tried to talked all my anxiety out. I once lived thru a severe tornado and I couldn't stop shaking and talking about it for days after. I had to use a flashlight afterwards because all electricity was out and I couldn't let go of flashlight for several days. Again glad you are safe. I have been watching you since before you got in the van. This old lady enjoys you and Joey's adventure. Luv Joey's toothy smile!

[@elliewood4292]

Delighted to hear that you both are okay. Enjoy travelling and be well and stay safe.

[@rakshakaur1985]

Glad to hear that you both are ok!! Be blessed, be safe ❤️

[@Pumpkinheadexpress]

Glad you and joey are safe and sound! Looks like those roads also had a bit of washboarding as well. Not so nice to drive on. Cheers🍻

[@egonzalez9854]

Thank you for taking us along for the ride, glad you both are okay. Beautiful views .

[@juliescheidler7763]

I'm sure glad you're ok, and glad help was close by!

[@mca7291]

Glad you took care of yourself and Joey first instead of filming. Blessings on your journey.

[@laurajphillips]

I think anyone would have panicked! I’m so glad you’re ok!

[@furryphone4417]

OMG!! Please stay safe!! What a close call but now you and Joey are safe!!!

[@pandachickenmama]

Astoria is a neat and quaint little town. Did you know Goonies, Kindergarten Cop and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles we're filmed there?

[@scooterboss565]

I live in Astoria.... Love it here

[@Dedqw3434]

Oh my, I’m so sorry you went through that! So thankful you and Joey are safe now.

[@spicyunicorn7688]

I'm so happy you're okay, I would be devastated to find out something happened to you and Joey but at the same time I find it comical that you didn't want to get out of your van, I would be like that too. I'd be like "save my cat, but if this things going down I'm going down with it" I doubt that was your thought process but that'd be mine lol. I don't want to be so attached to my van but like you said it's my everything, my home, my income, everything I own, if I didn't go down with it I can bet I'd be in an even darker place just letting it go so I'm okay with myself for thinking that. So soooo sooo grateful you're okay, you were and are one of my biggest inspirations for van life.

[@barbibutton9619]

OMG Chantell...you lived through one of my worse nightmares. Gosh, I can't imagine!! The angels were watching over you.

[@peggyjohnson5669]

O my when u showed us the scariest moments my heart dropped b careful honey thank God u an Joe are ok love ,y'all MS peggy .

[@valerierichardson458]

OMG! what a story! So glad everything worked out for you!

[@rhondazappalewis3685]

I am so glad you and Joey are ok! Stay safe! Love your videos, I can't travel, so I live my travels through you, thank you. ❤️

[@hazztv6317]

As you was saying what happened I stop pushing my feet forward and felt this pressure on my legs and my heart start beating fast. I’m so happy you and your dog are ok. Thank God! God bless you, Sweetie❤️🌹

[@kevintran1865]

Wow, time goes fast, I’ve been followed your channel since your very first video…thanks for sharing your van life to us…

[@taragordon6239]

Wow...hopefully that remains your worst moment! The shots of the Columbia River look beautiful. Thanks for the details, I will be out in Washington in October!

[@wendybestward4299]

Glad that you, Joey and your van are safe....enjoy your downtime in one place 😎👍

[@Barbarahas10]

Glad to see you are back and safe. Take care of yourself and Joey.

[@conniebailey4905]

I'm so glad u guys r safe now!!!

[@karenbrandin5160]

Glad you came through that safely and had the presence of mind to keep your foot on the brake until the tow truck got there. You handled it like a champ. Love watching your journey. Happy travels.

[@GwenDeeful]

So glad that both of you are safe. Beautiful video of Oregon and Washington.

[@starrmcnally3032]

Glad you and Joey are safe. Such a scary situation! Stay safe girl!

[@cybercrafter8588]

I've been in a similar situation. One of the scariest moments in my life. Glad all turned out ok and you and Joey are ok. Be safe.

[@robertsellers1153]

been following your journey for the last year Chantelle. Keep up the good work!

[@BunnyPlaysHere]

The same things happened to me on my trip to Colorado a couple years ago… absolutely petrifying

[@spiritandtruthjourney]

Glad yall are safe and sound!!!

[@FayeCalder]

Thankful you all are ok! Safe travels, MommaFaye 🌺

[@janebullington6817]

OMG, I'm so glad everything turned out good.

[@renee5748]

Most well spent 140.00 ever! Thank heaven you, Joey, and Bubsy are all ok!

[@mommam.6101]

When you were in Washington, that’s my stomping ground. Maybe 20+ years ago my husband and I bought a class B van hand-built by an old guy who was a master carpenter. He loved that van and we did too. The first time we tried boondocking we had no idea what we were doing so drove to Olympia and stayed in St. Peter‘s Hospital‘s parking lot, unfortunately next to the ambulance entry. After that we stayed in campgrounds in and around Washington State, Leavenworth, Washington, Long Beach peninsula, Eastern Washington, etc. Good times. I miss the van and I miss my husband.

[@Dana-in4ln]

Love your travel vlogs and appreciate your calm manner. Looking forward to your next set of videos.

[@lourdesgonzalez230]

What a scary experience. Thank goodness everything turned out fine!!! What beautiful scenery!!!

[@HappyTailsandHappyTrails]

That is so scary! So glad you & Joey are safe!!

[@gregorylenton8200]

Good to see enjoying the slow pace.. Have Fun

[@terristenacious2279]

OMG! Im so glad your safe♥️♥️♥️👍

[@esther-louisabarnett-kraus5690]

It’s always good to chill and take a brake 😊 and stay safe 😊👍 both you and Joey.

[@bonniepettersen4063]

Wow! That was a very scary time!! You did an amazing job and made it out, safe& sound🙏🏻 Love your channel and adventures.

[@debrap9829]

Glad you and Joey are ok! It looks like such a beautiful area. Ty for sharing your adventures,

[@RobinHood89566]

I love the trains blowing by!

[@robinsonvancrusoe1339]

So happy you guys are ok. That is definitely scary. I love your videos. Thank you for sharing all the beautiful places you visit. ❤

[@debrosi]

So glad that you, Joey and your rig are okay!! Be safe!! :) Thanks for sharing the beautiful scenery 😍

[@coralieofjumpwithnofear]

OMG!! That experience with your car is super scary!!! I’m so glad you’re all okay. Wow. 😲😵😱