SOLO FEMALE lives with DOG in SELF-CONVERTED Ford Transit VAN

Follow along on Instagram: / spintheglobeproject
I converted a 2016 low top Ford Transit Cargo Van into my solar-powered mobile home and hit the road with my dog Cagney. Then we explored 10 national parks in the U.S. and Canada, volunteered on a farm in Oregon, and encountered a black bear in the wild. In this video, I talk about off-grid camping logistics, diet, safety, and loneliness as a solo female traveler.
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[@guitarlearningtoplay]

Looking forward to more great videos! I am sick and live in just a bed. I love the outdoors so I have to live vicariously through explorers like you. You are doing great at making the most of your healthy and life! Very honored to be on your adventure with you :)

[@carolesteinberg7463]

Great photography. I’m a female van lifer too. Nice to see other women out their enjoying life. Happy trails.

[@CassySoSassy]

Had I no husband nor three kids, it would be me and a dog in a little van camper too. Yours is AWESOME!!!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Maybe bring your husband and kids along :)

[@CassySoSassy]

Anna French I’ll need a bigger van. Or even better...we all get our own. Hahahahaha.

[@musingsfromthehill9030]

@@CassySoSassy pop pop

[@gypsybelle4757]

Love seeing other solo female travelers. And I’m inspired my Your van and your photography! I’ve been thinking about downsizing from living in a RV to a van. Thank you for sharing your journey, strength and positive attitude. Plus your adorable dog! ❤️ Hooray for Girl-powered Vanlife! Looking forward to following your adventures.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you and Cheers to female van life!

[@TheGalavan]

Really well done, well-edited video! KZbin suggested you and I'm glad they did. Looks like we've been traveling the same areas! I recognized most of the footage in this video. And we're both solo vandwellers.

[@BagelBunny]

Knife is great, until someone takes it away from you. You need to keep a can, or two, of Wasp Spray. Works up to 20'. Traveled on my own for years and only had to use it twice. Very effective.

[@adamj2683]

Absolutely do NOT listen to this person. Wasp Spray is not meant to be used that way, and it is far less effective than pepper spray, which is engineered to better incapacitate humans.

[@chocolatewheelchair]

What happens when you spray someone with wasp spray??

[@Underhills]

Wasp spray is for White Anglo-Saxon Protestant.

[@revoguy74]

I would recommend bear spray and pepper spray and a least a revolver if you do not want a semi auto Glock.

[@Underhills]

Are you talking about "the land of the free" here - or Iraq? Glad I'm not from the Americas. Seems hostile as hell.

[@triumphbloke2011]

The both of you are living an amazing life and experiencing the stunning world around you. I hope you continue your life journey happily and safely. Cagney is a cutie!!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you! Cagney really is a cutie :)

[@WanderingNature]

Cagney is a sweetheart

[@theuniversecalled6694]

Of course be careful. I only had one scare on the road. Couple of guys tried opening my car while I was sleeping. But other than that over the last 7 years of traveling I have not had any scares

[@AnnaAndRyan]

That is scary! I will be careful :)

[@theuniversecalled6694]

Anna French it was, but every turned out okay. I think what war most weird about it all, is it was at a public, and very busy rest stop I had pulled into for a quick nap. So even when you're in areas you feel most safe, that's where you need to be the most careful. But I'm sure you know you can never get too comfortable and you can never be too safe when you're on the road. Hugs

[@KrossFire330]

What did you do in that situation? Did you start laying on the horn or something? Or were they trying to steal what was in the van and left when they realized someone was in it? Glad youre okay

[@SignedOff402]

I may end up out here and hope to make best of it. Do not accept drinks from strangers and guard your beverage when mingling at night in places like Slab City was yesterday's video lesson. I hope to live 2 years on road with equity from home if possible.

[@leticiagerardo9747]

QueenAkassya Vlogs n. Q

[@kingsovarinfreedom3581]

Nice efficient setup

[@sallystites2946]

Your photography is beautiful.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

thank you!

[@gypsybelle4757]

Sally Stites you took the words right out of my mouth. :)

[@Dogwoodnatureschool]

I just came across your channel. I started my van journey Jan 26, 2018 and my KZbin channel. It's nice to hear and see tips and stories from other solo females.

[@ToothyBeej]

I appreciate the time and thought you put into this video, best of luck to you and your pup!

[@mspurrple2184]

This video is VERY inspiring!

[@bobbyglick5307]

Anna you've really captured the true meaning of independence. It's very rare for most people to grasp or even understand. We all should live each day as it was our last. I think the world would be a better place if we did. I never really understood that until after losing most of my family & two women I was engaged to years ago. Everyone has dreams of adventures they just have to take a risk & go for it. After my dad was murdered I went to Iraq & was shot in the leg ever since then everyday we have is a great gift from God to help us realize there's a huge world out there just waiting for us to come and find something new. Be safe & keep exploring. Sincerely, Bobby Glick

[@bdyuille2]

Loved watching your video. Hope you have more videos from your van adventure. And Cagney is such a cute and fun companion.

[@DANNYTHEFROG123]

Reminds me of into the wild. I admire people who can just take off on adventures. You are making the most of life.

[@angiewhite9799]

Congratulations on a life well lived on your own terms. Great video!

[@arielcole6792]

I love the way you talked about how you felt doing it. I feel like every time I talk to someone about doing this myself they're always talking about "wasting time" I love your view on life! You gained a subscriber! Good luck on your journey!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thanks for subscribing and I'm glad you liked the video. People's reactions to this lifestyle can be frustrating, but at the end of the day, you're doing it for your own happiness :) Best of luck on your own journey!

[@SelfHelpSadie]

So cool. And I totally said awe out loud when I saw your doggie’s face after the hail storm incident ~ awe!!

[@JOIGORE]

I can not believe that no one mentions that beautiful puppy, I love him!! 💓.. he looks like a great companion! Good vibes for both of you! A big hug and love from Argentina!

[@romeydahomey]

Some of those shots! Truly took my breath away!

[@shantelrscott]

God bless you Hun, I am so happy for you and your journey Living and exploring off grid Living. Be safe and stay happy and blessed.

[@MrPaka420]

Good for you keep busy, never gets lonely, and your Buddy to keep you happy

[@rvargas508]

You hit the nail on the head. Concise commentary. no fluff. love it.

[@chicto9416]

This is so well narrated and I loved the visuals , you’re an inspiration. Shout out from Canada xo

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you! I'm glad you liked it. I'm missing Canada's beauty :)

[@TheSplashchannel1]

your relationship with your dog reminds me so much of myself and Dinky, dogs make all the difference in the world!

[@next20yrs]

Fantastic job on the photography, editing, and narrative! Yep, that covers it all. I am very impressed (and I watch a lot of full-time van dwelling type YT videos). And besides that - what a wonderful life.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you!

[@randallgrant6175]

Brilliant, got to love those solar panels on the roof, you are living the kind of life I'm needing. Now all I need is a van of my own

[@MarieBenard]

if you want fresh veggies that are cheap and easy, consider growing sprouts!

[@melindalemmon2149]

flower box works great for greens. Out when you park, in when driving.

[@jwest1816]

Awesome video! So professionally put together! Loved hearing you tell your story, it's a good one and I look forward to hearing of more of your travels!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Janessa West thank you so much and I appreciate you following along on my travels

[@rono33]

I love what you're doing Anna. I'll soon be hitting the trail with an RV I'm making. You published this video on my birthday and your videography is beautiful!. Makes me wanna hurry up into it! And Cagney is SO cute especially the look on her face after the hail storm (aww lol). The spots you choose, and photography, and descriptive narrative, is very well done. 2 thumbs up. I hope to see and hear more from your journeys. Subscribed.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you and happy belated birthday! Best of luck on your RV build!

[@amecko6270]

Ryan Y 0

[@MOOMOO2728]

I love your little boy. He is so cute. I’m happy u have him. Beautiful scenery, happy and safe travels.👍

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you!

[@LA.X420]

2:36 that little face 💗

[@paulhughes1956]

One of the best videos I've ever seen about living in a van and the nomadic lifestyle. I am so jealous. You have an amazing rig and such a great attitude. Good luck to you and stay positive.

[@buddymack9606]

You are cool. Good on you and little cagney

[@guylainevincent3704]

OMG you are so lucky . This dog seems to be very happy. It’s a very good companion.You must see so beautiful things. Watch you from Quebec in Canada.

[@thereseember2800]

I’m in awe of you! What majestic cinematography! You go, girl!

[@bearmerica6668]

A dog's life. And he's so cute. I wish I was doing this.

[@sandravalani359]

Thanks deeply for sharing your amazing video! Your drone shots were so enchantinG! Not many people get to do what you are doing...so enjoy your awesome adventure and go where life takes you!😄🐕

[@yamarblackburn5642]

Beautiful pictures

[@Daringtobemyself]

Wow! You've captured some beautiful wildlife and nature. I love seeing Cagney looking out the window at some of these animals. I bet the close encounter with the bear was pretty frightening. Best of good luck to you both along your journey.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you! I loved filming Cagney interact with other animals. The black bear was scary at first until I realized it wasn't a threat and then it was exciting!

[@rvargas508]

I'm doing this thanks to you.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

that's wonderful!!!

[@melcanuck5951]

Good choice of van; the Transit is an excellent vehicle.... and yes, I have done much backpacking and hostels myself. Happy travelling...

[@CiecieNewson]

So cool. Happy for you. What great beauty in nature you have gotten to see. So blessed. ~Smile!

[@simplysoothesounds]

Thank you for the inspiration! This is what I plan to do once I graduate 🤗🙌🏼 Keep inspiring and sharing your journey!

[@brymacphail4016]

Like the panels. Great job outfitting.

[@jimeckert607]

Unbelievable video footage! What a great dream that you are fulfilling! It's very inspirational how you've stepped out of your comfort zone and walked into your dream, your living reality. Magnificent! Your courage to step out has brought me courage. :) Thank you for sharing. Jim

[@campgoerOne]

Very nice video dear! So young...and brave...God bless you and your little dog..always. Safe travels! ❤

[@joannecampbell9915]

How very fortunate you are, and I admire your determination in doing what you love. Will be attempting this from Oct. - Dec. Be safe and continue the joy in what you do.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you, be safe on your journey as well :)

[@michelle_chevellemmm1581]

Awwww, your dog reminds me a little bit of my dog. She passed away 2 yrs ago. She (Precious) was 14. My dog was more on the Chihuahua side. I was told when I got she, as a puppy. She was part Poodle and part Chihuahua. She was not as curly as your dog. But she was as big as yours is. :)

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Sounds like a cute dog, I'm sorry she passed.

[@alanhudson8718]

again.another very awesome video,cant wait to watch your next one,regards to you and cute cagney,scenery and narrative just beautiful,congratulations,from Australia.

[@chillinwithdylan636]

Wow! You're really amazing! Be careful, & enjoy your travels. 😁

[@biskybisk1405]

Some of the most beautiful video footage I’ve seen!! Good for you!

[@ladylaura8038]

Inspirational, .... your pictures are phenomenal. thank you for sharing your journey. Such a brave and free young woman.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

thank you and thanks for watching!

[@jodyk4949]

Anna great share! I love how you are taking charge of your life.

[@tedward123]

Cagney is awesome. Could be the twin to my Wallace. Subbed for the puppers.

[@tedward123]

Noticed the surrogate hiking dog at 1:13. Bichon's are not much for the mountains (but do great on islands btw). Also - was just talking about this with a colleague: scary things waiting in the bushes and quicksand are much less of a problem than I thought they would be than when I was growing up.

[@maryhoward8982]

What an incredible adventure for you and Cagney. Wish you 2 luck and love and many blessings.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thank you! :)

[@sabina8618]

I love that you have bought your little dog! He is beautiful and such a great companion. Love your video and life. Safe and happy travels; from Australia :-)

[@felicefiore6783]

I'm so happy you keep Cagneyy, your dog on leash. There's wild life out there.Great video, from Toronto Canada

[@felicefiore6783]

😘

[@memeimhere]

Another Amazing video. Narrated with the perfect words to explain your true adventures 😁. I'm so looking forward to watching many more.

[@AKMCGRATH]

Ford should pay you as a living commercial for them. That was a beautiful video! YOU are living the dream! What a wonderful world we live in, naturally. I am preparing to downsize and leave in Nov. A 3 year plan, ending with splitting my time between the States and Europe. Congratulations on TRUE freedom amd living life on YOUR terms! I just sub'd to your videos and look forward perusing through them. Best wishes and safe travels for you both. JO :)

[@homebase967]

Dear Anna! Really enjoyed your video --- your sharing experiences and all the best in places you visited! Great! Mahalo, mililani

[@cosmicoin]

You’ve got a great visual style.

[@sarahaugustine4185]

Great video Anna French and I thank you for sharing a piece of your voyage.

[@TinyHilltop]

Thanks for putting this video together. I saw your van on Dylan's channel. Look forward to following your journey!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thanks for following along!

[@hstteacher]

Glad you are doing this while you are young. What wonderful adventures and you are developing such confidence in yourself. Great preparation for the rest of your life, whatever you do later!

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I love your story, and your Van. I plan to hit the road in August.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Thanks! Enjoy the road and safe travels!

[@cesalt2408]

Beautiful! How many times will I watch this video? As a female motorcycle camper, I see that a van is my next step as I grow older.

[@asailorandhisdogslyknight5391]

You took the bull by the horns, Your rig is ideal, solar power very resourceful, this sailor is out...

[@randivoss6669]

Besides that I love what you're doing...compliments on your storytelling and video editing!

[@jeffreythibault230]

Great work. Good luck in your travels.

[@Gulfport05]

Man, this makes me want it more and more I really need this in our life.

[@norriscoleman3141]

GLAD your enjoying the Van Life. I plan to hit the road in April or May an travel the States also. Keep the video of encouragement coming.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

I hope you enjoy your life on the road as much as I do!

[@smalltownpicker]

The views you see are a blessing. Congratulations!!

[@SustainerNYC]

Thanks for the brilliant edit and gorgeous inspiration, Anna. I left NYC a year ago and am headed in the TH/Vanlife direction. Love what you're doing and how you're doing it. :D

[@TheTuscaloosa]

Envy you. Would be the life i choose. Yet not possible but comes closer. Regards from germany

[@spiritisalive1]

guido kaz you took the words out of my mouth. Envy came to mind.

[@coalhoste5159]

guido kaz when I move out of my parents house and do some college, I'm definitely gonna do this

[@PensandPaint]

Way to take control of your life and dreams. Thanks for sharing and enjoy your travels.

[@VondaInWonderland]

That does seem wonderful. I may just be out there in the world with you soon ♥

[@rosemarywilliams9969]

VonDa in Wonderland much luck to you 😊

[@VondaInWonderland]

Rosemary Williams That's, and to you too ♥

[@tamarabrown3817]

Enjoy! Cagney seems like such a sweetheart.

[@paulashealthyliving]

why would anyone give this a thumbs down. beautiful photography and interesting.

[@RED-im6fd]

what beautiful pictures, you must be very happy - what I can see of your van looks fantastic - keep living your life.

[@selectshelley]

Nice camera work.

[@hearthemspeak5045]

wow that's amazing kudos to you Anna for living the life you the way you want to live rather then how society says one should live.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Hear Them Speak thanks I've done my best to avoid falling into the traditional paths laid out for me, but mostly I try to just follow me heart.

[@justinezey]

alberta looks unreal!!

[@AnnaAndRyan]

It has some of the most beautiful scenery I've ever seen!

[@thisamazinglife2406]

Gorgeous 4 months of the year, miserable 8....lol...

[@angelamermaid]

Alberta is amazing! Lived here since 2001.

[@cpwalsh6245]

Yay! That was exciting to see my home province in your vid--the first I've watched thus far.

[@esmesayer9089]

I love how you live with your dog in the camper van And its so cosyyy

[@hsmith3844]

Stay safe. Enjoy

[@heavenlyreads]

Your video has really touched my soul, i have always wanted to do what you do, never thought it could be possible at such a young age like yours, you have truly inspired me

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Victoria Divane I’m so happy to hear my video inspired you! That’s my goal at the end of the day 😊

[@heavenlyreads]

+Anna French So thankful for your reply, it really means something to me, I tried to contact you in Facebook because I am interested in a couple of things you said on the video and would like to know your thoughts and advices, only if you have the time to do so, thanks again for the reply and have a lovely day.

[@AnnaAndRyan]

Hi Victoria, I don't think I got your message on Facebook...did you message me at Spin the Globe Project? Anyway, I'm happy to answer your questions on here or by email at [e-mail]

[@Doggonewood]

That look on your wet dogs face!

[@robertbidochon7949]

the wet dog face ahahahah

[@povyi9394]

Haha she was cute.

[@shyrleyramos2222]

This is so beautiful. I wanna cry!

[@bonhamkeith]

Terrific dialogue. I rather dug the diction!

[@kalopsias]

she is *truly* living her best life.

[@Cashclever]

Great review love the van convention😀😃😃I have a similar channel but in the UK 😍😍😘

[@David-nl1zt]

Good for you! Life is about being happy and doing what makes you a better person.

[@FamilyFreedom]

Awesome :)

[@carolynthomas5586]

Lovely scenery. Thanks for sharing.

[@MrPaka420]

Being FREE is where I love Life best, a journey and unknown....

[@plauditecives]

Just loved listening to your story. Makes my 9 to 5 life seem rather one-dimensional. (Cagney is very sweet.)

[@rifke]

If you ever make it to Charleston, let me know. It would be great to me you. Safe travels.

[@Alice-gc4yw]

You are so healthy, while I am watching you hike and I feel healthy.

[@BeyondAIMan]

Don't believe the fear based media, in all my travels I've always found people more willing to help me than hurt me in anyway, I believe this fear is what keeps many people from traveling and it's a shame so many GOOD people in the world that they will never have the experience to share stories with...........

[@freckles4268]

Steve, I work as a counselor in a prison with maximum security inmates. Most likely it won't happen but it's better to be prepared and take precautions. I read the crime details and it happens. A young Christian couple were shot execution style while camping on the beach near Crescent City, CA and the perpetrator moved on to kill another couple camping near Eugene, OR. They had a dog that woke them up but no defense. A knife can easily be used against a female and many ex-cons have been pepper sprayed that they laugh at it. I think it's empowering for a woman to learn how to shoot a hand-gun. I hope to someday.

[@dakdjonsey2398]

Ignorance is bliss, so they say. Just one bad encounter scars a person for life. Don't be stupid, be smart and remember self defense weapons can be taken away then used on you. So, get properly trained, practice, practice some more and stay aware and prepared. USMC, 68 yo disabled vet, trained, prepared and give everybody due respect at all times. CrazyLarry

[@trenchantsometimes5149]

Freckles Totally agree with you. Before I saw your post I was going to say something about the knife but decided against it because people don't want to hear about being prepared for the worst in case it would ever be needed. Baseball bats, knives, etc., are no match for someone with a gun or a wacko who knows what he's doing. The first two people were overpowered and killed by a man who had a gun. The second two people were also overpowered and killed by that same man with a gun. Those people (I feel so bad about it) only had one chance.......they don't get a second chance to do it over. It only takes ONE time. It might never happen, and we all wish these things would never happen to anyone, but to rely on a knife, a baseball bat or a can of spray to protect you is not wise in my opinion. Those things are no match for someone with a gun. Guns are not horrible nor should they be scary. They are a tool that would probably save your life. The women who helped settle this country used them to help feed the family and protect it, too. I don't want to be less capable than they were of defending life.....mine or someone else's. I think those four people would still be with us if they'd had guns to defend their lives. Tragic.

[@burney6211]

I'm not a big fan of firearms, but have often wished that I had become more familiar and comfortable with them. Bad guys are everywhere, and if it comes down to me or the bad guy, I hope I'm the one to survive. A gun gives me a little leverage in that regard, IMHO. I would have loved to travel like Anna when I was younger, but lived my life in fear of such adventures. I applaud her. Live the life you want, Anna, but do protect yourself along the way.

[@sexyladyakb]

Steve I live in Houston Texas and the fear is real here.. seemingly nice people are scammers trying to kidnap you into sex slavery. I was abducted and jumped out of a moving vehicle to save myself . So I hope it’s not true in other places but it is here lol