SOLO TRAVEL Van Life 🚌 Things They Don't Tell You About LIVING IN A VAN and Camper Van Life

[@vangcamps]

Making a point to pickup trash, even if it doesn't belong to you -- that was a most appreciated point. I'm always picking up along my travels.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah....I think that is very important.

[@robertarnobit5357]

People who want to do vanlife have to adjust. Thanks for sharing the realities of vanlifing. 👌👍

[@30AndAWakeUp]

👍🙏

[@readysetgarza2742]

I loved your down to earth vibe in this video! And I loved how you talk about how the good outweighs the bad, at the end of the video!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Appreciate that!

[@rollover2010]

It helps out a lot Thanks!!! )))

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it helped!

[@goingagainstthegrain]

Thank you, this is why I love your channel. You do not just discuss the mundane camping ventures we see from other channels. You keep it REAL! 👍

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that!

[@maybee...]

I take a small tent with two large dish pans and a plastic pitcher, I also have a 5 gallon bucket with trash can liners and a toilet seat, this becomes my bathroom/dressing room outside the R.V. I have plenty of towels/wash cloths and a rope to string between two trees. I will use water from lakes, streams, nearby faucets... All tissues, paper products go into the makeshift leuve, any leaves/pine debris you can add are a bonus. I have a camper on my truck, the backseat of the truck is extra storage when the tent is not in use.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good stuff...thanks for sharing.

[@ojtamayosr]

When getting hit with strong winds from the side, turn your rig facing the wind. You'll be amazed how much more stable and quiet the van will be.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good tip...I'll try that. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@scottb5716]

Another tip, if you want to change the wind direction, move your van to face into it and wait 10 minutes.

[@karend169]

That's funny. It is the same for ships. Head into the wave. :)

[@jen9774]

@@karend169 and the smoke from the barbeque.

[@Milesco]

@@jen9774 : So true!!!!

[@deniseinight9596]

I am VERY new to having an RV, just bought my 18 yr old 21ft VW/Winnebago class C (was actually looking for a van, but this is what I found and fell in love with having a loft bed.) and have been out just a few times. (Nurse, pandemic, 'nuff said) I don't see me giving up my house, but will travel in my new to me RV. You just triggered me to make sure I put a fly swatter in my RV! I'm learning so much watching videos and look forward to seeing more of yours. In a few months I'll be taking off and going across country and will be carrying all these little tidbits! Thank you!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem, Denise! Glad it was helpful and congrats on the RV!

[@LadyGreenEyes964]

My dad would pay us to pick up any trash at the campsite, every year when we'd go. Never much, but always nicer when we left!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's really awesome of your Dad.

[@antoniabaker7770]

Agreed. Good smart dad.

[@judithsmith9582]

That is what I did as a kid (and adult) also. The mantra was "Take nothing but pictures; leave nothing but footprints."

[@LadyGreenEyes964]

@@judithsmith9582 They used to post signs like that in the parks. These days, some people would likely vandalize those.

[@LadyGreenEyes964]

@@30AndAWakeUp He had a lot of knowledge to share!

[@MeetJoeBlack55]

Some of us 'vanners' are 'urban vanners' ... we travel from town-to-town to see interesting cities, museums, and historic sites, as well as see natural wonders along the way, so we have no problem with trash build-up, places to eat or shower. Occasionally we rent a cheap hotel room for one night just for a change of pace, take a LONG shower, sleep in a huge bed, watch a big TV and have good WIFI. You don't have to live in your van 100% of the time, because that can cause 'burnout', and then you feel you need a vacation FROM your van. If you mix it up along your journey, you will continue to love your van and feel like you're on vacation all the time. I personally love the sounds that mother nature sends us .. falling asleep during heavy rain and a thunderstorm, watching a lightning storm move in, listening to the wind whistle .. all tremendous shows of natural power .. but learning to find cover in a hail storm, heavy snow and ice, is also a talent you will develop. Being a retired truck driver, it all comes naturally to me and have enjoyed it my whole life. Just remember to "mix things up a bit" along the way to keep things new and interesting. Camping at a beautiful lake for a few days is great, but so is "camping" in downtown Las Vegas for a few days ... totally different, but totally fun. Be safe and drive safe everyone .... enjoy the journey !!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great, great insight and advice. Thanks Joe.

[@thegroovypatriot]

For showers, I do a lot of sponge baths with heated water from my stove, vinegar or soap, a dash of essential oil, and a bowl. No mess no fuss. It uses very little water! It is so lovely to gently wipe yourself down as it feels so nurturing. I do get so dirty hiking around with my dog that I need to clean every day and this sponge method works beautifully!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great tip! Someone else mentioned doing that as well. Going to have to try it. Thanks for the comment. Really digging your channel by the way.

[@fawnskinart1714]

My wife and I don't live in our van, but we do go out for 30 to 40 days at a time. We boon dock for 3 to 4 days then hit a town. We are able to shower every day . Fill the sink with about 1/2 gallon of hot water take a sponge bath then a quick rinse. About a gallon and a half per shower. Use paper plates so there are no dishes. You are right about the feet. Each time I shower is sit on the john in the wet bath and spend some time on my feet. We have a 2006 RoadTrek Adventerious. About 25 gallons of fresh water.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great advice....love the Roadtreks by the way.

[@danleonard3600]

Awesome. I appreciate you taking the time to clean up trash. I learned this from my mom when we camped as kids. Her phrase was always “we need to police the area”. We always did this while my dad was setting up the tent and before we left.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's awesome...tell your mom thanks!

[@KingdomOfDaylightsDauphin]

Yes! I learned it in Girl Scouts - "leave the place cleaner than when you found it".

[@juliuscaesar8801]

Nothing like having your own bathroom and shower instead of getting up in the middle of a cool night to relieve your self or slither yourself around a coffin size Prius to sit on a bucket. Yeah sounds adventurous and lots of fun. Your the first van lifer I’ve viewed that talks about the other side of the coin. Thanks.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem. Thanks for watching and commenting. 🚍

[@sunriseskies3883]

You brought up a great point about trash. It would be so great if the aka van life, RV, alternative living community could adopt a whole food diet. Eating things such as carrots, kale, tomatoes, black beans, beets, sweet potatoes, and buy bulk....so much healthier for us and wouldn’t require all the plastic containers. Because there is less packaging…they create less waste. Doesn’t have to be perfect… Kind of adopting it like a meatless Monday or a whole-food Wednesday mentality… 🥦🥕🍎🧅🧄🍠🌮🥗🌯 You always have such great attitude…🥰 Be safe ✌️🌻

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good point...I do need to eat healthier...that's for sure.

[@Hannahsunshine-]

You should get a collapsible garbage bin. I think they make them for camping. When you set up camp, just leave it outside and fill it. When you are driving, you can still just put the whole thing in your bathroom like you already do with the loose garbage, and after you dump it, it can collapse back down to store.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good tip...I'll check one out.

[@georgemohr7532]

Very informative content. Cleaning the body: a wet washcloth that is soaped, then a rinsed washcloth to remove the soap. Uses far less water than a shower. Yes, you get clean doing this. As an RN I have washed more bodies this way than you can imagine, not to mention my own. Dude, I am going to buy you a damned hat! Skin cancer is no joke and a reality for the scalp of bald men. Sunblock helps but it has a high rate of failure.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I know, I know! You're right I'm trying to do better.

[@pjt3887]

@@30AndAWakeUp it also keeps you looking younger. I left Southern California for the PNW. Still wear 50 + sunscreen everyday. I look years younger than my son loving friends. Just saying.🤷 Had a spot taken off my lip. I was a mineral oil tanner back in the day. The precancerous spot on the lip cured me.

[@JStephenYoung]

@@30AndAWakeUp Who else thinks we should find Kevin THE perfect hat he'll never want to take off???

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@JStephenYoung Im searching!!!

[@katdahlia7]

I had a big chunk of skin cancer taken out of my scalp. Left a sunken spot. Wasn’t fun getting it cut out and stapled up.

[@kzcreativephotography6060]

thank you for keeping the earth clean. Camping can be frustrating when the campsite is full of trash.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem! Thanks for watching!

[@gary4983]

Another great video! I'm really enjoying your balanced portrayal of the van life--showing some of the potential drawbacks and inconveniences while generally staying positive about the many benefits. I always a look forward to watching your channel! Best to you.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

This comment made my day, Gary, exactly what I am trying to do.

[@TCDShow]

You inspire me…. Can’t wait to start .. thank you… I’m filming my show this coming Tuesday May 2nd.. going to mention your channel and my next step to my taking my show on the road..

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks! I'll try to catch it.

[@duncanferguson8701]

Hi from Scotland, we use solar showers, black bag type you can fill from rivers and leave out all day warm showers at end of day..

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's a good idea...I'll try that.

[@JosetteBadger]

LOVE that you picked up trash. FYI SOME biodegradable soaps still shouldn’t be put right into the water as they mess up little insects and critters So take a bucket and soap up and rinse 200 feet away and THEN go jump in that lake. That also washes off the sun lock and hug spray and most other stuff that the fish and amphibians don’t love. Cheers from a happy backpacking mom (who mostly lives in a normal house with my three kids and hubby ... for now)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good suggestion. Thanks Josette.

[@Pandroe]

I appreciate the different perspectives you present! It's not all great and it is helpful to see the good and the bad! Thank you for being honest!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem!

[@raymondgenta7825]

Have only seen a few of your video and definitely needed to subscribe. I got forced into full time road life loosing my job in the oilfield where I lived in company housing after my divorce. But I wouldn’t trade this for the world and your videos help especially your Q&A videos. I don’t have a van but a truck camper but basically full timing is full timing

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Sorry to hear about your job but cool that the result was that you found this lifestyle. Yep, full timing is full timing. I have lots of full time friends in truck campers. Thanks for watching and commenting, Raymond.

[@luckydubefan808]

Aloha Kevin, love your laughter as you swat away those bugs. Very informative video.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Mahalo! :)

[@alkirk4206]

As a suggestion too deal with the noise problems, I am currently installing some studio quality sound proofing. Just something to look into if you wish for a quiet home on the road. You can always get the really thin sheets of them, and sandwich them on either side of your insulation.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good idea...i'll look into that. Thanks Al.

[@alkirk4206]

@@30AndAWakeUp Your quite welcome, the little bit I have installed thus far in my rv drastically reduces external noise. My set up is a 1980 gmc vandura Glendale 20ft motorhome. Which I am still remodelling.

[@MTisOnly1]

It's the toilet and shower that keeps my bee-hind planted in a brick and mortar place instead of an RV.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I get that for sure.

[@hochoma1564]

You can rig up incinerator toilet CF, 120v, a clean water tank with pump to sink/shower (w tank less heater). A large tank for dirty water... Lots of options but you need to customized it your way. Can be done in a big enough van like cargo van to be comfortable.

[@anthonyginn5085]

If you got an actual RV it’ll have a toilet and shower

[@topcat8820]

Really ? Even a van like the Mercedes sprinters and VW crafters all have showers and a proper bathroom when they convert to campers. Been doing it over here for decades.

[@scarson216]

For trash you can get those backpack bags that go on back of van opposite of the tire. Aluminas make a box that i have seen people use for trash too.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Oh nice...I'll check that out...love Aluminas' products.

[@scarson216]

30 And A Wake Up also check out Trasharoo or www.blueridgeoverlandgear.com/products/tire-storage-bag-xl

[@donnacorliss9368]

Finally someone that gives the REAL type if I info versus drone shots and BS of perfection

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awe thanks Donna! Appreciate your comment.

[@chaosncheckt9356]

You hit the key points, but water/shower/toilet are the big ones. As you said it all comes down to how much you can carry and then how much you can hold in your gray/black tank. We pull a small tear drop with a 25gal fresh water and 15 gal gray and 15 gal black. We use to carry two 5gal jerry cans that we would stop and fill with water, when we knew we were staying more than 3-days at a location (we are comfortable totally off grid for three days). But where do you store two 5gal jerry cans? Looking through an Overland magazine, I came across a company called SmartBottle. They have collapsible water bottles, the largest being 5.3gal. What's great is they lay flat, take up no room. When we fill them they stand on their on. Each came with a pour spout and cap. We sat them in our wet bath when we traveled. When empty, we turned them upside down and let them dry in the air. Our fridge is three-way, propane, electric and DC but it would only hold about 2 maybe 3 days worth of food. We have an ARB portable fridge, but needed to find a way to power it. We came across a very small solar company in Atlanta GA, and after talking with them about amps, watts, etc., related to the ARB, they recommended a nice portable lithium battery with solar panel setup. About the size of a suitcase and 10lbs and has powered our ARB for up to 22-hrs. There are built in folding solar panels plus we carry an additional portable panel. While some folks think the biodegradable soap is a good option, it really isn't. Consider the full size body wipes for those days you are not shower.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for the recs....yeah i have some full size body wipes. I'll check out the SmartBottle products.

[@positiveendtimes]

With trash compact and break down as much as possible, I saw a lot of air space in those bags

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good recommendation. Thanks for watching and commenting, Alex.

[@Locd4life707]

Awesome video. I'm a Urban City dweller and 9 months into my vanlife. I've noticed so many people leaving trash behind. It's only going to make it harder for all van dwellers Rvers and car dwellers! We all have to do our part & not leave trash around! Leave NO TRACE no matter where you park or camp! ❤️👍

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Well said!

[@nickcowley8757]

If you want to pick up a lot of trash look at the trasharoo from the overlanding scene. Its a big nylon bag that you can hang from the back of your van and stuff with trash

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Will do...thanks for the recommendation. Thanks for watching and commenting, Nick.

[@17655460]

Thank you for cleaning up the camp site. I always carry a bag to pickup trash when I am hiking or even walking on the beach. Thank you, thank you.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Absolutely! Something I think we should all do for sure.

[@kevinburke6446]

Nice video. While rolling around the country, frequently we used Amazon lockers. They are safe and free. Also used the USPS general pickup. My RVing was in a 40' motorcoach so our water experience was different. Huge downside to the big rig is not being able to pull off the interstate to take secondary and side roads without research. At just short of 14', it was a constant worry. Even using a truckers route guide! The option was to park somewhere and take the car to the lakes edge... but never able to camp in sites like that. So enjoying your experience and other vaners. Stay safe.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Im going to have to figure out where these things are...that would make it so convenient. And yeah...being small makes it much easier to get to places. Thanks for watching and commenting, Kevin.

[@KryptoTrekker]

So happy to find your channel, looking forward to start the Van life when I get back state side from the Philippines 😊

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Very cool...love PI! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@KryptoTrekker]

30 And A Wake Up my pleasure and let me know when you are ever back in the Philippines 😊

[@EarlyDawnTravels]

This still makes me want to buy a van! We love to travel and hopefully we will be able to live this lifestyle eventually.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

It really is an awesome life...I must admit!

[@joethecomputerguy1]

Love my bug zapper! Idaho has some great boondocking. I stayed most of the summer in Island Park ID (not far from Henry's Lake)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I love that area.

[@lauracrowley6948]

Thanks for cleaning up the campsite. I'm really enjoying all your videos.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you like them! And thanks for the comment, Laura.

[@edhuffmanmetaldetecting]

Great Video Kevin and you are spot on ...... not just van life... camping life period...lol! I run into those same things in my small Class C! Keep the videos coming!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Well said! Thanks for stopping by again Ed.

[@lorriehall7243]

I loved seeing the area where you are camping. One suggestion for trash would be to be careful of the groceries you buy to reduce your waste. I think it is something that will get easier with time.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good point for sure. Thanks for watching and commenting, Lorrie.

[@thomasdarby6084]

I never have a problem with trash. The few packaged food items I carry, such as milk, crackers, etc., go right back where they were when I empty them, be it a shelf or the fridge. It may be counter-intuitive, but then when I finally have to go on a supply run, I dump the empties there instead of piling trash on the floor. The only thing I throw out locally into the grass or woods (never in a lake or stream) are vegetable scraps. This may not work as well for a couple, but as a single traveler I plan ahead and use very little, and keep things like cereal in re-usable containers.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Smart strategy. Im trying to transition to what youre doing. Thanks for watching and commenting, Thomas.

[@SueTay.]

The bugs made me want to grab my Ben’s bug wipes....lol. I love Henry Lake, you are by my favorite lake... Hebgen :) Thanks for sharing your travels.

[@steventoney4018]

Quake Lake nearby is very interesting as well....

[@SueTay.]

Steven Toney I agree. I saw my first moose there and have been hooked every since.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah..Henry Lake is amazing! Thanks for watching and commenting, Sue.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Love it!

[@jacksoncamania6064]

Wow... An eye opener. Thanks for sharing your views.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you enjoyed it, and thanks for watching and commenting, Jackson.

[@828findadventure]

Thank you for the videos and as always, thank you for keeping it real.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem...thanks for watching.

[@nomaderic]

Man its amazing how quickly trash piles up in your vehicle on the road. It becomes almost a daily thing I usually save my bags from the grocery store and store trash in them like you and as soon as I get to a gas station ill slide a bag into the trash cans next to the gas pumps. Its like you clean and then in no time you have trash again lol

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah for sure. Im trying to buy less stuff in packages to minimize that but still a struggle.

[@doofdoofsf]

Amazon locker is really great if you haven't tried that for packages

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Hmmm....good call...I will. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@doofdoofsf]

@@30AndAWakeUp I've been enjoying your videos thanks! I've used locker a few times on the road, it's free, they have lots of pickup locations and if your plans change and you can't make the pickup, they will automagically return the item to Amazon.

[@antoniabaker7770]

Cant get anything from Amazon where I live. You guys are so lucky. Many places to go for free and safe.

[@BBossman1]

Yep, as others pointed out... Trasharoo. Mount it to that ladder and as long as you don't put food garbage in it, and rinse empty food containers, you shouldn't have to worry about critters...

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I'll check it out for sure! :)

[@sadiejosiemom]

Would it help your trash situation if when you purchased groceries to empty all the non perishables into storage containers while you're in the store parking lot? Also dump trash whenever you stop for fuel or pass a rest stop - though you probably don't see many rest stops - lol! You can get an outdoor shower set up (some come with heater) and use water from the river/lake when available to save your van tanks?

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah...that's a good idea about the trash...I'll try that. Ive been looking at some of the portable shower units.

[@distaff2935]

Good point on picking up some trash. If the site is free, be a good steward, and play it forward.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

exactly

[@williamgainey4300]

Thanks for the insight, my wife and I will be part time van lifer's next year. Probably two months at a time.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Very cool...Im so excited for you two. Two months is a perfect amount of time.

[@jaynemiller8464]

lol video and yes very true. Thanks for showing some of the realities. Thanks for all you do.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for watching!

[@johnmandy]

You’re so lucky having free land to parkup on across the USA. It’s much harder over in Europe, especially here in the UK.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, definitely feel lucky. Thanks for watching and commenting, John & Mandy.

[@gibbethoskins8621]

You should get an external trash bag, very common in the 4x4 community. Can attached to the back of the vehicle. I have a 45L one made out of nylon/canvas waterproof and lined with rubber inside with a drain hole and adjustable straps, cost like $20.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good idea.

[@leejoycechung2162]

I always enjoy your videos. Great content

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that!

[@peterpiper487]

Windstorms? Yep. I hate those. Mail/packages? I have a mail drop in South Dakota that I check routinely. Taking a shower: I use river water that can be heated and put in a bucket with a pump. Works fine for me.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good stuff!

[@wetlettuce8215]

Love the content, the sound quality. And how compact the video is.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad you enjoy it!

[@tommynikon2283]

@2:00 Trash: Store your trash in a dedicated container mounted on the rear/EXTERIOR of the vehicle. Lots of products available.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Im looking at that option. Thanks.

[@tommynikon2283]

@@30AndAWakeUp There's even stuff that's "armored up", bear proof. Look for something that mounts high too. LOVE your rig; sweet. First time viewer; subbed.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

@@tommynikon2283 Thanks!

[@a.sontoloyo6887]

Security, thief and vandalism are some of my concerned when shifting to vanlife.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yep...but I havent had an issue with any of those yet.

[@fromflabtofourteener9596]

Especially a single woman. I'm working on my CC, should have it soon, then Herr Glock will keep me safe. A dog is great, but not at a national park.

[@tommynikon2283]

Yeah, and I've got enough paranoia just with my car and motorcycle. And the rip-offs to justify it.

[@nancib2963]

@@fromflabtofourteener9596 Are dogs not allowed in national parks?

[@fromflabtofourteener9596]

@@nancib2963 National Parks, like Rocky Mountain, do not like dogs. You have to leave them in your vehicle, they are not allowed on almost all trails. Dogs, or rather, the owners, are messy, and don't pick up after them, and that impacts the environment. Besides, who likes a hike with a pile of poop every 20 feet?l If you plan on going to a National Park, call ahead and ask about their regulations.

[@susang1952]

Thank you, you answered some important questions I have about this lifestyle. I hope to do this before I am too old.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@Banagal]

A "sort-of" resolution to the "trash pile" may be an RV trash compacter. One obvious barrier would be space, where would it fit. Secondly, the price of compacting one's trash may be a barrier. Just a thought though, a type of bag placed under a tire and slowly roll over it. LOL, well...it's a thought. What is done with trash on a submarine or small ship? Great reality vlog!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I like that idea! We had trash compacters on ships I was on. Thanks for watching and commenting, Ramona.

[@muhamadalikhan]

May be you can burn trash like paper etc

[@steventoney4018]

There will be no trash burning in the west -- too many fires and the possibility of more fire -- fires are ban -- even many of the places Kevin would like for NFS and BLM lands are close to recreation including camp due to fires and fire dangers

[@muhamadalikhan]

@@steventoney4018 I am keenly watching campervan videos and most of them depicted BarBQs🙄🙄 However thanks for pointing out that, Peace

[@nbragtop]

Super video! Have a Day and Enjoy Life.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thank you! You too!

[@anthonyputney7626]

So I finally ordered my Revel and in my research discovered we have a Great deal in common from Unbound Merino to Navy Retirement. Great channel. Maybe I’ll see you out there!!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Very cool...and congrats on the Revel...love that vehicle.

[@gailmiller7035]

I couldn't comment on your latest video per the system just didn't load properly but, i was able to click the thumbs up and i did want to say don't change your name. 30 and a wake up is intriguing

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks Gail.

[@Painfulwhale360]

You could just have your Amazon packages delivered to the nearest Amazon locker in the area.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I figured that out later! :) Thanks for watching and commenting. 🚍

[@laurahardman8069]

I have no experience, but I think outside the box and a problem solver. For garbage issue: I would get a huge yard garbage bag and some bungee cords and strap on roof. Then the little garbage bags can go in the yard bag up on the roof rack, until you go into town and dump the contents. I saw you have clamps you can use for easy access and closing up yard bag. Good job of cleaning you area and giving that positive message of keeping the land clean. Enjoy your journey!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's a good idea! I might have to try that. Thanks for watching and commenting, Laura.

[@johntatman9168]

Bathing in a stream or lake, even with biodegradeable soap, is a no no with the "leave no trace" outdoor philosophy. Bathing, wahing pots/pans, any type of cleaning should be done a minimum of 100 ft from water sources. Biodegradeable soaps are fine if you allow the water to drain into the ground but never directly into a water source.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks...not going to do that again...trying to find some alternatives.

[@MeetJoeBlack55]

@Drakilicious I agree ... I keep a garden sprayer full of distilled water just for quick clean-ups .... won't get me jumpin' in a lake, river, or stream.

[@mrgrip2010]

Awesome videos Kev. im pretty much addicted to your videos now. thanks Kev.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks.

[@ChocolateManInThailand]

Brutally honest, but at first glance I was like, "dang another vanlife reality video," but you actually addressed some unique issues. Great job, good video!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Appreciate that! Thanks for watching and commenting, CMIT!

[@leelunk8235]

DANG...LOL...IS BETA

[@dwizzycep8868]

Great to see you always keeping it real.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I appreciate that. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@carolesteinberg7463]

Unpackaged all your groceries at the store and out in their trash. Put foods in containers you can wash. Or even zipper bags. They take up much less room than boxes.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good idea. Love that. Thanks for watching and commenting, Carole.

[@eleanorcramer7986]

If WE didn't have cat litter we make way less than grocerie bag of trash a week. There is recycle and compost to separate here at sticks and bricks homesite with front, back and side yards of landscaping to tend to. Buy less packaged items and break it down. Great idea to repackage ouside store. They recycle cardboard. Happy trails.

[@eleanorcramer7986]

Such sound advice.

[@TititoDeBologay]

I have a friend who lives half of the year in Europe. His trick for trash is to buy in package free/ bulk shops, local markets and Mom & Pop shops. There ‘s already less packaging so less trash. If he has to shop in Supermarket, he stores it immediately in silicone recipients, the type that takes the shape of what it holds. His organic food trash goes in a bokashi compost. It seems to be working pretty well for him and his partner.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good advice...thanks!

[@charronjim9177]

Have idea for your trash, those locking roof boxes, buy one, some are aerodynamic, would add a lot of space.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I like it! Thanks for the rec!

[@kaylaw366]

Congratulations, you just got yourself another Subscriber! Awesome video. Thanks for taking the time to make this informational video for all of us strangers! I envy you!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awesome, thank you!

[@LovingAtlanta]

👍Great video & info. 😂@1:24 “when you’re walking around your van with your feet off” 😳😂 I know what you meant to say, but it made me laugh. Also at 2:07,....you zapping those bigs. 😂

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Haha..yep...one for the blooper reel!

[@LovingAtlanta]

30 And A Wake Up - Exactly 😂

[@antoniabaker7770]

I live in Australia, we never wear shoes. Trash can be reduced if you repack when you buy. Love those electric zappers. They do these great zip up fly screens now for vans. Couldnt live without them here in Oz. Helps keep out snakes too. I just bought a black van. Do you still hear the wind when you insulate? Hadnt thought about wind so much. Thanks for cleaning up the trash. I'm also a hiker. We have trail angels that help out with packages and stays etc. Maybe we need a network of angels for Van lifers. For example I live on a large acreage and often think about people needing to park for security but no idea how to contact people that might want to stay. Might need to develop an app.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's a great idea for an app! And the insulation helps a little bit but you'll still hear it. Oh and I spent lots of time in Brisbane when I was younger.....loooooove it!!!! Thanks for watching and commenting, Antonia.

[@tarac5137]

From She to Me has a bag that hangs off the back of their PleasureWay called something like a Trasheroo. They use it for bulky item storage, but I think they also use it for trash. Maybe not viable in bear country! Nice to see several channels have done public lands clean-up PSAs this week. Give a hoot, don’t pollute! (remember those commercials?) Safe travels. 🚐

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awww....I'll check that out. I love those commercials! Thanks for watching and commenting, Tara.

[@steventoney4018]

you could also keep the trash in a cheap duffel and tie it down on top of the van until you can dump it.. on top of your traction board etc....

[@lindabellock8342]

I also use the trasharoo.

[@ZaideZaide770]

Funny i just got to work and saw a Jeep with this bag hanging on the back of a very rugged looking Jeep....I guess no your trash is safe from theft.....Maybe LOL

[@zhirsr]

You can eliminate most trash before you get there. Remove packaging of food products - use reusable containers that you can wash. Leave the food packaging at the store. Be more eco-sensitive in what you purchase.

[@gregorychambers5847]

Thanks for this Vid. Very Informative and real. Most "van" channels never talk about the CONS as openly as you have done here. Bravo.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Glad it was helpful!

[@teajay2778]

1:20 I don’t really ever walk around with my feet off but hey if you can do that good job 😂😂

[@30AndAWakeUp]

That's what happens when my mouth moves faster than my brain! Good catch!

[@teajay2778]

JeepdogsRCbikelife 1 well if I was a double amputee I would probably start with my left one since I’m a lefty lol

[@JonniesJourney]

Oh my gosh that was a bug storm. You get the best sites to stay. Great video's loving this. Man do I need to step up my game on my videos.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks Jonnie!

[@susanneward7029]

Nose into the wind for the night!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good call, Ill try that! Thanks for watching and commenting, Susanne.

[@fromflabtofourteener9596]

Yup, just like cows...

[@brincervantes249]

Oh wow a van life video that actually teaches me stuff, thanks man 👍

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem 👍

[@zena1976]

Good morning, Gotta get that bug 🐜 racket 🤣..when I'm swarmed again!! Although there are these unspoken topics, I'd take van/RV life over sticks & bricks in a second. Enjoyed your unspoken topics..safe travels 🚐

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Well said!

[@brunoboaz7656]

As for the windstorm noise, if you can, turn the nose of the van into the wind. Creates a smaller profile and should lessen the noise.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good tip...I'll try it.

[@sylmac65]

In reference to mail...you can always use "general delivery" at any post office. It's totally free😉

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good to know!

[@steventoney4018]

Some PO's do not do GD.. Need to check.

[@anthonyputney7626]

I am transitioning to full time travel in a Revel which is on order. I have signed up for America’s Mailbox in SD. It is a mail forwarding company with other advantages.

[@michellem2042]

@Sylvia McDaniels thank you for that info. Much appreciated

[@quash8]

Yup, and while not every post office handles GD they are required to have one GD office per county.

[@davepalmetto]

Have fun and take care and take it easy and enjoy it

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thank you, I will

[@brucewilkinson8599]

I could deal with dirty feet, I could tolerate the trash being a hassle, I could get used to the noises - but the bugs/insects. 😱 😂😂

[@30AndAWakeUp]

haha..yeah....i usually find another spot when they are bad! :)

[@kellydoyle]

For the trash, where it’s legal, I would make a little fire and burn the trash. All I had left was one small bag after two weeks out! Also when grocery shopping I take everything out of packages and toss them in the stores trash bin and I don’t consume beverages in plastic bottles, so that helps. Great list!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Great tips...I'll try some of those. Thanks for watching and commenting, Kelly. Just checked out your channel....love it. I'll definitely watch more.

[@kellydoyle]

@@30AndAWakeUp Aw, thank you so much! I’m working on the break in video now- While I was IN the van! Again, great video! Subbing!

[@KarlOlofsson]

Might be a Swedish thing, but indoors = "clean floors". I.e. brushing off or preferably switching or removing shoes ;)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

For sure!

[@saticonthree5050]

Nice video. I'm impressed by the cleaning up of grounds of mess left by others. Is a great suggestion.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I think it's important to leave a place better than you found it. Thanks for watching and commenting and Happy New Year!

[@justme5694]

As a retired Postmaster, all post offices should offer general delivery. Can be held for up to 30 days. Just don't abuse it at one office. Like ordering all your Christmas shopping at once the week before Christmas! !! The problem may lie in ordering from those companies that require a street delivery. But like I said earlier all post office street addresses are available thru usps.com.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for the info...I'll check it out for sure.

[@crisb3460]

Deep Woods OFF, turn your van with the van cab into the wind. Thanks for the mailing info. I’ve wondered about that. I understand there recirculating showers for RVs? Thank for what you do!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks for the tips!

[@lamannafoto]

Could you touch on safety/security issues - getting robbed, being vandalized, whether or not to carry a firearm or other form of self-defense, etc.? Thanks.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

I'll hit that in a future vid.

[@lamannafoto]

Great! Thank you! I'm hoping to get my van this coming Dec/Jan-so a LOT of stuff is going through my mind right now. Anyway, thanks again for all your content!

[@zeissmanzeissman5852]

Thanks so much for your videos. They're so informative and truthful. I look forward to your weekly videos.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

You are so welcome!

[@nba71113]

Maybe someone already said it, Amazon has lockers. So find a locker closest to where you'll be and amazon will deliver there..

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Thanks!

[@gemansell1]

USPS general delivery is free. Used it many times for amazon

[@shavaunaronan3188]

I like that you pick up trash when you see it, thank you for doing that. I do try and leave wherever I camp better than the way I found it. I bought a 24" Mercedes Class B+ and have entertained selling my home and living full time in my motorhome but will think more about it first. Thank you so much for your awesome videos! Stay safe!

[@30AndAWakeUp]

No problem Shavauna. Let me know if you decided to hit the road full time.

[@shavaunaronan3188]

@@30AndAWakeUp I sure will, thank you!

[@stephenstringer3689]

Bugs are my biggest grip about camping but we’re in their home, lol! I also feel a need to clean my space... so disrespectful to leave trash or uncovered #2’s, yuk!🤬

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah...agree! Thanks for watching and commenting, Stephen.

[@marttk.2605]

As a add on suggestion. Sea showers: wet body, shut off water , lather the stinky parts , turn on water quick rinse. Or sponge bath. Or last resort pray for a heavy rain ..... Gotta keep in mind the limited amount of water in a Class B. Or any RV for that matter.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Good tip

[@jackiebenedict7057]

Happy to do my pArt to help you out. You'd make a great motivational speaker. PS:.... You're awfully handsome! Great luck on your travels.

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Awww you made my day, Jackie.

[@elazarpimentel5340]

I've seen videos where people who have to be close to their job will sign up for a gym or a swimming pool where they can work out and shower. There are also national chains so if you travel around you can go and shower. I guess it would be cool if they had washers and dryers, but good luck convincing them that people who go to work out also wish to do their laundry there :)

[@30AndAWakeUp]

Yeah, I signed up for Planet Fitness after this and loved it.