SOLO VAN LIFE - What NOBODY talks about!

[@juliekirby3958]

Instead of cotton balls try filling the gaps with steel wool. They can't chew through it. Another great video :)

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Great tip! Thanks so much

[@maranathawatch1618]

Actually I have heard mice can chew through steel wool, but they don't like aluminum foil balls. 😊

[@erikamassey3582]

This really does work, tried and tested. Also humane mouse traps work best with chocolate raisins as bait, they love them. Release them at least half a mile away if you can, they have homing instincts!

[@1RealRoyalPain]

Can you adopt a cat? That should keep the rodents away.

[@krisgen29]

Maybe stick peppermint scented cotton wool within some steel wool?

[@wandaberry998]

Please don't apologize for telling us the other side of the story. It needs to be told. I have watched the Nomad videos for years, and they were not telling the other side of their story. Because of that, i just knew that is what i wanted to do I even bought a van. I have watched people sell their homes to go all out being a nomad and boondocking. To find out it's not their cut of tea. That they were not told the downside and the expense. Plus, trying to find a place to park for the night. Unless you have tons of money, you can't afford to pay the fee every night at State and National parks. Then they don't have a home to go back to or they get sick and etc. I was one of them. Until finally realizing I'm not a loner and I had more fear of just parking out in the woods all alone. Plus, I didn't realize how expensive it gets, not counting the breakdowns in the middle of nowhere. Getting sick and trying to find a place to stay while you recoup from being sick. Getting a bath, dumping your waste, and so on. Place to wash your clothes. Not enough space to keep enough food. Things to keep cold. So on so on

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks for sharing your story too. Thankfully we did not sell our house, but you’re right, a lot of people do! I hope you’re in a good place now

[@evestree]

Yes!! With you! And tiny living as well is not for everyone long term. It’s not fun after a long time

[@karlneuman4295]

I agree with you when young with husband and baby we spent five years in a caravan. It was fun9 but like you have brought out it does have up and downs.

[@glow1815]

There is no way I would run and live in Van without doing research first becuase KZbinrs only show Sunshine lol. It' obvious. I knew what people show on KZbin it's NOT all out there. It's for "likes and to subscribe" It's obvious NO WAY you can live in a Van like living in your home. You're traveling required a lots money etc. And not to mention safely wise. I can never do that first of all I am afraid of being alone especially at night. Nowadays it's even scarier. I don't care what anybody says...I love being in our home with my baby garden.

[@keepcreationprocess]

​@@nigelandsueadventures If people have enough money to keep this as a hobby..

[@karlanapedersen]

NOPE, its probably the same mouse. I have RV'd for many years and unless you drive that mouse over a mile away from your campsite, that mouse will return to your home or RV every single time.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

Poison or mouse trap. Duh

[@bettiej5762]

That snake would’ve appreciated that mouse.🤭

[@0opisceso0]

@@jeanettelebarron3306 Please do not use poison, this not only adversely affects the target (mouse) but also their predator(s) or scavenger(s) (even potentially someone's cat). Even if the mouse is killed and then disposed of safely, poisoning is an excruciating way for them to die, so I would strongly encourage the use of kinder alternatives such as Sue's methods (relocation, discouraging or blocking access - but only blocking if they have another way to get out) as opposed to poison. There is good pest advice on some animal charity websites, such as RSPCA. Sorry if this comes across as preachy, it was not my intention - I just wanted to share my knowledge regarding the ecological issue of poisoning in the hope that others who see this and didn't know now know and can find better solutions.

[@ponderwithjess]

@@bettiej5762 i was thinking the same thing!

[@kathmann7402]

My husband does that with snakes in our yard. However, he goes 5 miles to an open field to release them. He swears any closer and they will return. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@janicecrockett1400]

There is no way I could live in van. I am claustrophobic. But, I do enjoy watching how people adjust their lives to living in a small space. I have learned a lot.

[@xwhite2020]

Funny thing is I moved back into a house and felt more trapped than ever. I a van you spend far more time outside than inside plus you are usually travelling.

[@grimsonforce7504]

That's my thing too, considered a bus but still same problem plus it's bigger with it's own set of headaches. Only reason I'd considered those things is to scout out a new permanent place to live.

[@noodlepair.]

Owning a cat is an effective way to deter mice from your home. Additionally, having a cat can provide companionship and comfort.

[@krisgen29]

Maybe, but not everyone wants the added results of owning a cat? More work than occasionally removing mice. Also, somehow I don't think a cat will necessarily prevent an occasional mouse in the walls of a van

[@G_de_Coligny]

Mouse, spider, cockroaches, postman, germans… Cats are the ultimate killing masheens…

[@louise7552]

Alot of work having a cat in a van. They can't just run around like a dog can, go on hikes .it's cruel. I have 2 cats and would NEVER do that to them. Seal up the gaps permanently with silicon after the mouse is caught. 😮

[@louise7552]

​@argon62 well I hope you have a backyard and indoor area for night time.😊

[@G_de_Coligny]

@@louise7552 slow down Karen, cats all have their personality, There's enough videos of happy trucking cats to prove you wrong no matter how "cruel" you want to make it sound. You don't have the universal truth about felines. Busya (Luna) would be miserable without a big garden (but then again, she's literally a 30kg domesticated panther *) while most turtleshell do fine with whatever they got as long as they don't have to share. And I got few here who would never leave my shirt pocket if they could still fit inside. (*) and before you open the flow of bullsh1t on this one too, she was a runt of a litter left to die and was rescued few days old by a vet assistante who raised her and is the. only mother she ever had. You can see in her behavior that she's a perfectly fine cat, litter trained, with 3am zoomies and rough play with her (Rottweiler) sister.

[@SparklyDogs2]

My goodness! With the week you had, my camping days would be over. Mice, a huge spider and a snake. It would have been much too much for this city girl. You are so brave..

[@ArianneAvalon]

You never have just one mouse. They breed wholesale once they get cosy. We had a huge rat land on our van and we panicked when it started scratching to get in. We drove off through the night to be rid of it. We only hoped it had wings! You can get a pest deterrent device. They can hear it and we cant but it keeps them away. Van life is hard. We done 3 years and half and winter has been tough here in the UK. Just finding safe and legal park ups is stressful some days and nights without the whole utilities thing. People dont see the tired, sleepless us. At least we dont have snakes to worry about! Nice to see someone being real.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks so much Lizzy. OMG I would die if there was a Rat. Mice are bad enough! Yeah, I've heard its getting harder in the UK. I know what you mean about tired and sleepless.

[@vanessaboman9840]

Haha it's likely the same mouse that wants you as their family cos they know you want company lol...

[@dorisshanks7295]

I had mice in my big Bounder but trapped them. In my current smaller rig I have never had a mouse but have had an occasional water bug which freaks me out. None lately thank God! They say spray the peppermint around your tires and any openings and plug the openings with steel wool. Also rodents don’t like lights so many install LED light strips under the vehicle and having them flash is even better. Also leaving your engine hood up keeps it bright enough to deter them from chewing wires or building nests. Some add a light for night hours. Hope these suggestions help.

[@dawngrey259]

Appreciate you showing real van life. Yeah, I heard mice can be a problem, but that big a$$ spider would definitely have given me the willys. Wouldn’t be able to sleep after seeing that and hoping there wasn’t another that would crawl on me in the night.😳🫣😬

[@job.1875]

Love the video hitting the road in my sprinter soon any help is appreciated I'm a new bee.

[@michellepasc7564]

What's wrong with complaining sometimes? Everyone does that live a way more comfortable life.

[@beverlycommoss357]

Hot peppers (dried) or bay leaves can help in future.

[@BernadineNewland]

Put steel wool in those cracks to keep the mouse actually out of that. Use peppermint if you must, but I've seen mice. Eat peppermint, so doubtful that it really works. Also, you're just letting the mouse. Go in a place where he's gonna come right back.. You must go at least a mile away from your home. In order to be able to make sure that that particular mouse doesn't make it back into your van.

[@lynns8057]

The snake would be the end of me. The spider, ❤too. You are a brave lady.

[@ThessalonicaEllison]

Good tip is to not keep trash in your van overnight, don’t leave dirty dishes in your sink, ventilate all food smells out your van and do not leave doors open for any period of time unless entering or exiting. If there’s no holes or other gainful entry points you shouldn’t have any problems.

[@datgrrl5698]

Mice and others enter via the engine compartment.

[@tashad2201]

Note to self…. Forget about van life 😂😂😂. But seriously thanks so much for sharing this not so glamorous side of van life. You are appreciated

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks so much for the comment 🧡🙏

[@felicitydunk1237]

I freaked when I saw the huntsman. I hate those things they scare the life out of me. So glad you are safe and didn't have to burn the van down.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

I did consider it for a while haha

[@KaiExploresLife]

😂😂 That is hilarious! That’s how I was thinking when I saw that spider 🕷️

[@RiverRoamFree]

Lights under your van and in your engine compartment. They also make sound machines only they can hear they don't like. All food needs to be in containers. I keep my bread in the refrigerator it last longer and they can't get to it.

[@isnoo1]

Oh you have me in tears here.......... you are telling my story when I am camping/traveling in my van!!

[@sherrykear9374]

Appreciate your sharing. Total eye opener. Peace, Good Vibes & safe travels

[@hildy0068]

I had NO idea a mouse can get in the RV! There’s no way, I could cope.

[@Handlethetruth666]

Really . How pathetic

[@cruznvso1860]

Love the honesty of your Vanlife. Keep the videos coming.

[@dee7690]

You gave me a good laugh this morning, especially when you said you were releasing the mouse in the town. Glad to hear you were the last solo being left in the van.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thank goodness!! Glad you had a laugh 😆

[@margsmith687]

We had a huntsman spider drop on hubby's lap while driving , he calmly pulled over and delt with it. So glad I wasnt driving I would scream and panick and cause an accident. Since them its my priority to keep us spider free.😂

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Yeah I certainly would not be calm either! Good for your hubby! I think parking under a tree was the problem.

[@phillharris3154]

My advice just go to Bunnings and get a tube of gap filler. Carefully go through the whole interior and fill in any gaps, no matter how harmless the gaps look.

[@ldirk58601]

also, you can do this at night and have the lights on so you can see the gaps

[@sparhawkable]

Add steel wool to this. Foolproof!

[@krisgen29]

Will gap filler be messy when it needs to be removed? Will gap filler remove easily?

[@phillharris3154]

@@krisgen29 gap filler is permanent, not meant to be removed. If done well you won't see it anyway

[@flukeylukey7559]

​@@krisgen29put gloves on and painting clothes, gap fill a little, then smooth out, if too much wipe with rag. Then do a bit more. It can dry very quickly if it's hot.

[@ms.rickie]

Boy what a real reality video. Thank you for that. I can’t imagine one mouse I would lose my mind.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

I hate them, but I feel like I kind of got used to them in the end!!

[@deirdre444]

I really appreciate that you're letting them go instead of exterminating them. They're just trying to survive like the rest of us. That's kind.

[@heathermallard9197]

I know right. i hate it when people put down rat or mice bate because it not only kills them but anything that eats them i.e hawks, Owls, fox's, dogs, cats...etc. Tip get a Berkie and a pump and pump water directly from a river into your tank. Fill your Berkie and you will have fresh water all the time and water for your sink and toilet. I never pay for water. I fill barrels with tap water when i can and pump directly into a barrel from a river at other times. Good luck

[@deirdre444]

​@@heathermallard9197 Thank you for the tip and the thoughts. :)

[@heathermallard9197]

@@deirdre444 In the Uk gas stations are stopping folks getting water and so we have put this in place. We bought a barrel for a caravan which normally sits outside. It is half the capacity of our onboard tank and so when it goes to half we pump the water from the barrel into onboard tank. We do not make it obvious when filling the barrel up but simply go to any public toilet and fill up the water barrel from a tap for the next refill for free as water should be. It will be far easier for your system as the water tank used onboard your van is far smaller. Never pay for water. Plenty of places to get it from with the right battery operated pump or a simple hose to fill water carriers ...ok... All the best... much love Heather also a camper dweller. Who knows when we visit America, if we ever do, given the political unrest over their at the moment, we might meet up. x I live in England atm, but I am a Highlander born and bred in Scotland for generations. Obviously then I live in the United Kingdom, made up of England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Kind regards Heather

[@deirdre444]

@@heathermallard9197 This water story deserves a video of its own. :) Yes, please let us know if you find yourself heading over this way. We live in the Pacific Northwest and would love to host your visit.

[@heathermallard9197]

@@deirdre444 I will if we ever cross the pond i.e the Pacific i believe (Geography was never my strong point lol ) touch base and take you up on the offer. But i am not sure if we will be able to afford to take our camper van over by boat from the Uk...along with our dog and cat as its very expensive and a pretty basic passage that takes five days. We'll see. In the meantime please take care.. much love Heather and John x

[@MsLloydene]

Steel Wool in holes rather than cotton... You're providing all of their nest material, which I'm sure they appreciate. Keep at it!

[@datgrrl5698]

Those you try to keep out enter via the engine compartment.

[@peterpiper487]

It never ceases to amaze me at the number of people who are not cut out for van life or for camping. It's like someone wanting to make a living selling his paintings but has no artistic talent. You have to love what you do. You should be good at what you do. If you don't, then do something else.

[@a.alonso2457]

Yes. Steel wool everywhere u see an opening. I used to have a cabin in the mountains and someone told me about the steel wool and I put it everywhere there were openings, under bathroom and kitchen sinks, etc. Never saw a mouse or mouse droppings. It works ! But of course, if your van door remains open, they will get in !

[@gailsgig]

Glue the steel wool in around the edges too

[@JGalegria]

Fellow Aussie here. You've got a partner to help you though. Imagine being entirely on your own. It's not fun. 💛🙏💙

[@sundoesshine8583]

My mom swears by the electronic little gadgets you plug in and it emits a sound they don't like. Ever since she started using them she hasn't had a problem. She just uses one in each area of the house. Amazon sells like 6 for $30.

[@heenanyou]

But what do they do to your pets?

[@sundoesshine8583]

@@heenanyou Her dog and cat don't seem to notice them. I think the website says it's okay for pets. Mice have pretty high voices so I assume the tone is beyond what regular pets can hear.

[@sundoesshine8583]

@@heenanyou Ultrasonic tone can't be heard by pets. (Mom's dog and cat seem unphased). It works on spiders, mosquitos, ants too supposedly, says amazon.

[@heenanyou]

@@sundoesshine8583 I am sure you are right but I would need more proof before I would take a chance on my already-crazy cats being affected. For now I will stick with my glue pads for insects and traps for mice. Thanks for trying to help.

[@007nadineL]

Fully debunked by yt Shawn the rat catcher

[@river5756]

Your cozy nest is so inviting that you had quite an interlude with nature's also cold, hungry creatures! As I write this, I'm in a big dust storm with big sideways gales and drops! Glad that you have hookups, tanks, built ins, recycling bins and that you're only solo for part of the time to make together time special, true gifts! Peanut butter and live traps work magic. Grateful hug coming your way! 🚐☕️🐁💜🫂🕉🕊

[@exploringnext1111]

What I Love most about Van Life is practicing conservation. No way I'd shower every day...once a week is plenty with wipe downs in between. I embrace the challenges and lessen my foot print.

[@NickMaxted]

Bet you don't smell too good 😅😅

[@vickimathews1970]

This is great to see, not many people do such an in depth video about the important everyday stuff, thank you for sharing. I love solo vanlife, I'm a loner, hence I love it, I also choose to not have a huge water tank then I can fill up my container by hand within minutes anywhere, My drinking water I buy at any supermarket. I shower by bird bathing and head to a plumbed shower in town every 2 weeks. As I am solo I don't need much water too often, once a week usually. Doggy bags daily for rubbish. Pee container down the flush toilet in public loo. Solar panel plus engine to charge power stations, when it's not sunny, turn on the engine, or drive somewhere and good to go, I can also plug into any power point I find if need be, usually at local parks. Only have electricity so I can be totally offgrid and free, (apart from the odd time I run the engine at a cost of $2 total to charge the power stations), always have cooking ability due to electric system, that way I don't have to remember to fill up gas bottles...lol... I had my first and only mouse since 2022 in Tassy this year April 2024, and it was due to staying somewhere longer than 2 days, I ended up getting the little alfoil pull tab baited small traps from Woolies and caught him within 2 hours of setting it, I was having dinner and he decided to join me and have his dinner that I set for him at the same time, then you eject him without having to touch anything, the key is to use gloves for everything so your smell doesn't go onto the trap and obviously to dispose of said mouse, they do get in through the engine bay, (my auto electrician spotted his tracks in May 2024 in the engine bay while doing some work for my Kia Carnival home on wheels) so if you're hanging somewhere longer than 1 day, keep your bonnet up and place peppermint oil everywhere, and put all packeted foods in plastic containers. Apart from that I find it so much easier than living in a sticks and bricks and definitely cheaper, especially when you never pay for a mortgage or rent.

[@jeanieirwin4747]

You have a beautiful van. There are similar challenges when living in a house. Things wear out . Things break. There are events beyond your control. Things are never as bad at it seems. It could have been a rat. If you have clean water and a place to dispose of waste and you have food with containers to seal it up those things are a plus. You have a roof over your head and work. You have good health and your gifted with intelligence and talent. Those annoyances that are a nuisance will pass.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

thank you so much Jeanie

[@geoffmccoll4640]

I did this for two years in 2010 and 2015, you then knew what a mobile homeless life it was.

[@simonettemcminn8213]

Thanks Sue (and Nigel), good to hear some home truths. We are off just after Christmas and you guys are our first go to when we are researching an area. We also have been enjoying watching your Europe travels you are presently doing. You guys are terrific. We are just sad that we won't be seeing you on the road for our Aussie adventures next year. Love that you are adventurous. We are 60, bikes are loaded, kayak on the roof, hiking boots (and walking poles haha) packed. Want to thank you both for all the work and time you put into your videos.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Oh thank you so much Simonette! We have often spoken of getting a kayak. We probably have room for an inflatable one. Maybe Christmas??

[@ethnocentricfun991]

Get some moth balls and put them on under your vehicle when you park, it repels rodents, snakes and sometimes people 😂

[@cherrypie112759]

Also, a poisonous carcinogenic

[@monicalifornia_]

I’m no spring chicken and watching any RV life vids remind me how difficult it really is. Was never full time. I can only imagine. 😳

[@darlene9154]

OMG! That Spider would give me a bloody heart attack! Awww!😩

[@MelDarkDeer]

One of the nomads that I follow installed flashing lights on the bottom of their rig to deter mice. It's worked for him so far. Might be something worth looking into.

[@TheWanderingFinnegan]

Those are extremely obnoxious for other campers, especially those of us who want to escape all the light pollution to which city folks seem to be addicted.

[@gabbyofmilton]

You have me good chuckle when you left the 2nd mouse out, and jumped out of your skin when it ran out. Enjoy this video, I have subscribed now, I Al 79 years old now living in the Florida Panhandle, with no back and very little legs…So I live my live by proxy letting y’all have the adventures.👍🏼👍🏼

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks Noel, glad you got a laugh. I'm glad that we can show you some awesome places in the world - plenty more adventures to come. Take care :-)

[@vickilucas4620]

Thank you for your honest video. First one I've watched tell the truth. I learned so much more from you then all the others I have watched. Your awesome.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

You are so welcome Vicki, thanks for watching

[@bloodynorahvan2203]

Loved the video Sue - I laughed out loud when you kicked the trap, it sprinted out and you let out a yell 😂

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Yeah they always shock me!

[@sallymiller1359]

Love that you use 'Have a heart' traps

[@lisamccormick8151]

You are very brave Sue , good luck with your next adventure 🥰🥰

[@celiairving6673]

Those mice traps look interesting. Your experiences remind me that we need to check the motorhome for any openings/holes where mice could get in. Something to ponder……it might be useful to make up some dry premixes for bread, pancakes, scones etc. and put them in zip lock bags, then you just have to add the liquid to make them up when there is not much food left. Also Deb mashed potatoes can be useful in a pinch. Happy travelling.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

That’s a clever idea! And yes they are great traps especially if you don’t like dealing with squished dead mice!

[@kelleyjerred8032]

I have a tarantula in my van her name is itsy bitsy😂 I'm so Glad I'm not afraid of mice or snakès also.😊

[@1RealRoyalPain]

Can you adopt a cat? That should keep the rodents away.

[@Midimoho]

I saw a mouse trap that one RVer did religiously. They took a 5 gallon bucket, put some water in the bottom and a stick ramp to the top coated and peanut butter. The mice would crawl up onto the stick to get the peanut butter and then fall into the water and drowned. They had this bucket under their rig all the time everywhere they went. and it kept the mice out of the rig

[@Eirene-vw1dt]

Diving board lol. To me, that would just be yet another thing to do. Funny solution tho. Gosh I hate mice...ugg

[@beckytague4221]

Disgusting

[@jammyjay917]

It's good to know the other side of van life because its reality... its all interesting to know, so thank you for this video

[@donnaatteberry3640]

I watch many van life videos. I love how real and relatable your content is. Plus, I couldn’t help laughing in a couple places. Just the look on your face. 😂

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Glad you enjoyed it! We try to keep it real! I'm glad you got a laugh or two.

[@In_time]

14:13 😂😂😂 this was the first video I ever watched of yours and it was the *right* one!! Lol!! 😂🙌🏻 Thank you for sharing this side of the coin-it was very helpful!🌸

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Haha, that would be funny right? Middle of the Main Street!

[@wynnepruden3851]

Thank you for acknowledging that it is a privilege to have living in a van as an option. As much as I enjoy watching van life videos, I've also struggled with them too because of the elephant in the room.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks for your comment Bronwyn. I think it’s such an important point to make, with everything going on in the world. I don’t take my privilege for granted that’s for sure.

[@Lilione111]

Parts of Australia NSW especially, have had a mice plague. Make sure you don’t venture into those areas 😬

[@corithefrugalflower]

Try some bars of Irish Spring soap, cut up into hunks placed around crannies & corners, the mice hate the smell & it lasts longer than peppermint oil! ✌️🤞

[@viktracey8232]

Nobody wants to live with mice, but bless your good heart for setting humane traps

[@soundmannh9790]

We use Downy UNStopables granuales in fine mesh bags to get rid of mice in our cars. They hate the smell, but it's not a horrible smell, like moth balls.

[@trudiswanson9855]

Orh crikey, mice, Huntsman, and a Red Belly! David Attenborough eat your heart out! You are so cool and handled these Aussie critters with admirable calm! 🇦🇺 T

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Trust me I was not calm when I saw that huntsman!!

[@TarotWitch_Strega]

The first one was the biggest one. You got the mom out, that drew out the rest. You got lucky getting the mom out and the others followed quickly bc they were depending on her for food. So they came out. Otherwise they'd hunker down if they had enough hoarded. Glad you got that handled. Keep some of those traps left out all the time. Can't hurt.

[@barbarabuford5795]

WOW, this was Really an interesting video! Dealing with things like that lets u know about the pitfalls in Van, RV, or Travel Trailer Life. This has me rethinking ownership! Thanks. 👍💯

[@lorenl9262]

Thank you for such a realistic view of what van-life is because people have a lot of un-realistic ideas of how glamerous the van life really is!!! I have lived in an apartment most of my life and now have been forced to moved int a hotel. I have let everything GO including most of my belongings and SADLY my pets that I had since the Pandemic. I am looking to move into van-life!!! :)-

[@nigelandsueadventures]

I wish you well and hope that you can recover your pets when you live in a van (or at least enjoy some animal company - I miss owning a dog, and love occasionally house-sitting for that fix!)

[@lindapearson8137]

There is a product called Critter Ridder from Home Depot that helps! Critters love to chew on wires covered with soy in Asian made cars! I spray it on wheel wells and where wires are under the hood! It kept a brazen, challenging squirrel from getting on my deck! I screamed when you screamed, but mine was twice as load!😂

[@cowpiecowboy7599]

Thank you for posting and sharing I really enjoy real world people and vans without all the flair and glamour. You can tell the young folks are definitely at a different stage of life when everything is so picture perfect. Van life would help me accept being good enough for me. If that makes sense lol

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed it.

[@angiedodd3016]

Don't let him out he will come straight back. Let him go on a drive

[@kflecha1]

wow!! she is so brave!!!! I enjoyed this video so much I'm so sorry for all the struggle but that's life right :)

[@nigelandsueadventures]

It really is! Thanks for watching. I didn't feel brave when I was first dealing with those mice!

[@corinnedews7277]

Your post popped up in my list today, and I'm glad it did! I enjoyed your explanation of the realities of solo van life. It must be scary at times on your own. We have an ultrasonic mouse repeller in our loft as we had problems with the little darlings when we moved here. It is quiet, and we don't notice it at all, but it has kept the rodents out of the house. It's human and pet safe. I'm not sure how much electricity it uses, though. Best wishes from the UK.

[@christenascott5280]

That’s the funniest looking mouse trap I’ve ever seen! We have a little wooden rectangle ones that you gotta be real careful when you put the peanut butter on one and then you press it down under a little tight wire so when the mouse starts to nibble the peanut butter, ZAP! One Dead mouse!

[@ATouchOfCharmed]

Hi from New Zealand. Thank you x

[@barbarahenninger6642]

I've never seen that kind of mouse trap. It's great!

[@Tommyjamesrb]

I have been full time 4 years in a truck camper. I have owned a trailer and a fifth wheel before also. They ate the soap and peppermint didn't either. I have had one mouse in the camper but this time my traveling buddy took care of the problem. My cat loves to travel from forest to desert and enjoys several small critters. Mice moles lizards etc. A cat is the best mouse catcher. If the cat doesn't catch them then stop feeding it for a few days and instinct take over and no more mouse and she gets a treat and her food dish back.

[@MyCleverHandle]

If I stopped feeding my cat for a day or two, she'd piss all over my bed.

[@colleen9038]

Ah mate, been there before! I solo travel with 2 dogs, it's hard work doing it all yourself and looking after the pups, but all worth while when you find that cracking free camp 👌 the freedom is unmatched

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Ain’t that the truth 🧡🙏

[@freeshrugs63]

That mouse beat you back to the van every time. I think I'd drive that bugger 10 km away and then drive another 100k before finding a new place to camp!

[@tearyeyelady1441]

Thank you for informing us. I live in an RV so this is very helpful ❤

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Glad it was helpful!

[@popeyebob9007]

Mice are a pain and will seek out warm places to nest and camping in a bush setting they will see the van as being like the Hilton hotel. One other aspect is not the damage they do but what they leave behind. Mice and rats are not house trained so tend to leave little calling cards and will urinate on things. I hope you wiped over all containers and spaces they have been with disinfectant. If they have been there for a while they will have bred so pretty soon a pair become many so keep up with the traps. If you can access the space where your wiring is do so just to check for any damage and to clean out any nests and put in a couple of traps. ( A job for Nigel when he gets back. ) All in all just another day in paradise eh.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Yes the entire van has had a thorough clean and disinfect. It’s been a couple of weeks since I filmed this video and no further mice thank god!! I did find some good they had been into so I think the wiring is safe.

[@torriebrown9607]

Thanks for education on that I didn't know

[@lindafarnes486]

My electronic pest remover removed a micro bat colony from under the cladding on the house. It doesn't seem to bother the mice. A battery operated owl from Bunnings, strategically placed at night was immediately effective. I moved it to different locations each night, and brought it in during the day. My mice, or rats are some native species though.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Hmmm, never thought of the owl. could be a good experiment!

[@CarrieLaCubana]

I’m sorry this happened to you. I HATE mice. 🐁 Have you thought about putting some sort of sealant in those cracks?

[@DChristina]

Lived in my 2 1953 trailers, one an airstream, up in the Santa Cruz Mtns under the redwoods. Used peppermint and steel wool in corners to keep the woodland creatures out 🌲

[@DeborahWard-vm1my]

You are attracting mice to your van with the peanut butter… they have good sense of smell… don’t set traps unless you hear them otherwise you are attracting them

[@ChristineLewis-v2l]

Having had a mouse down by back as a kid I am afraid/very anxious with them so.....I learned a few things. Steel wool will stop the rodents in cracks & holes. Next, the oils you know about. Also lemon spray. Then moth balls do work....unfortunately I learned the hard way they cause liver disease/death in dogs should a dog eat them. I have heard there are new poisons on the market that create no smell speeding up mess when they die. Good Luck. I am currently living in a tent with an invasion. They have torn walls, crawl on top& chewed around stove pipe hole. I relate to nite anxiety.

[@amberm3193]

Glad you didn’t harm the little mice. Even in sticks a brick homes people have mice problems. I’ve even known someone who had a raccoon family under there home in the city. Spider issues too, but none as big as that spider. Once I was watching another video of an Rv dweller who had a big spider like the one in your video, She asked some guys to remove it and when they went into her Rv she could her them screaming. I don’t blame them. I definitely think you have more issues living in a vehicle traveling about. Thanks for sharing!

[@lyndasmith593]

That spider did it for me man no effing way Am I going to go anywhere or something that big. You're so kind to let the mice go but lol at the fact that they were keep coming back or that they kept showing up You're brave stay safe

[@cheriemonami]

Nobody has a perfect life. There's always plusses and minuses.

[@Outandabout2384]

I had several mice in my van during which time I was able to observe the ingenious method the little buggers traversed the various pathways….usually the cavities within the side pillars and also the areas between the ceiling and wall junctions… 2 mice identified and eventually apprehended using a small bucket partially filled with water. The trick was to lure the mice using Vegemite as a bait … solid wire set across the bucket with a revolving soft drink can loaded with the bait. Simple ramp provided access with a 99% success rate! Nothing worse than scratching sounds during the night! Luv your channel GG

[@WTF-qw2zg]

The snakes will be very appreciative of some extra mice for dinner :)

[@kerriemills1310]

Thank you, that was really helpful, and well thought through to present. Glad you made a video about this topic like this. Cheers.🍻

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks Kerrie, glad you liked it!

[@nan----]

I just found your channel and now watching my first video. I couldn't do it...mice, spiders and snakes. 🤞's crossed they are gone. 😊❤

[@Artsylady2030]

I would say KEEP NO FOOD ZERO FOOD in your vehicle....

[@Zar2244]

The non harm mouse trap cage box works, once caught it's best to use steel wool in any open area. I successfully caught a couple of mice in a new house , they came out of scurrying the walls to where i sat the box outside by an opening between bricks lol. Then i stuffed every gap all around the house outside with steel wool or chicken wire.

[@RareBirdTracy]

Also for mice Irish Spring Bar Soap. Use a potato peeler to shave off slices to stick in places as you do like the peppermint cotton pieces. Soap may last longer than peppermint oil. I know mice qlso like to eat the wrapping of wires in vehicles under the engine hood. Also if you are parked somewhere and if it's possible you can sprinkle Borax around your perimeter and mice generally won't cross it because they do not like the borax on the pads of their feet. Borax is a neutral PH and earth friendly. I have had success with this inside garage. Just ideas if you're interested to try. I love that you don't kill the mice. ✌️💚🕯️

[@Pattio47]

We must have special mice. We get mice in our trailer every winter. They ate the Irish Spring soap and made a nest with the cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil. I’ve also tried dryer sheets but they don’t work either. Now I’m relying on old fashioned mouse traps again.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

So annoying aren't they! I've never heard of that soap. Maybe it's only available in the UK?

[@ceciliapetrowsky2572]

@@nigelandsueadventuresIrish Spring is a really potent smelling soap but it’s a myth that it repels mice. They just eat it.

[@RareBirdTracy]

@@nigelandsueadventures I am so sorry... I feel silly I didn't think about that. . I am in the USA. Peppermint oil it is lol

[@nigelandsueadventures]

@@RareBirdTracy no need to apologise! I've got it on the list for when we do VanLife USA!

[@carolinewolf_flame8123]

Thanks for sharing about the not-so-glamorous side of van life and your experiences. I've seriously thought about van life myself as I do like camping as I enjoy taking my dog Elsa with me on camping trips but I think I like the comfort of home too much.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Part time on weekends and holidays might suit you really well Caroline!

[@ethelperry4529]

"Ya done good" Kid 🥰 ep🐢

[@nigelandsueadventures]

thanks so much Ethel

[@annieann99]

I live in a very old cobble foundation home. Every year we fight the mice.I live catch them. You have to let them go at least two miles from where you caught them. Also critter out spray works great. Essential oils they don’t like

[@debracook8859]

There is never just one mouse.

[@Zar2244]

Kudos to you, loved watching lol. Love how you addressed the mouse problem. All the best to you 😊

[@nigelandsueadventures]

Thanks so much! 😊 appreciate it

[@Paparoxx]

Thank you for helping the rodent growth on the road . Also nice of you to think of us in town and bringing some to us. The rodent shortages have been a problem.

[@a.alonso2457]

LOL !!!!!

[@kimberlybush2219]

Damn! All those critters! And that spider was huge! Yes I would say its been a rough week. I dont know how you close your eyes at night with spiders running around the size of baseballs. Good luck mate, as they would say in Australia.

[@1RealRoyalPain]

OMG I couldn’t deal with the giant spiders and snakes. I would be waking the dead with my shrieking of terror at the site of a huge bug like that or a snake. Rodents I can cope with no problem, but not the other critters.

[@traceyhoyle9480]

Over here in the UK, someone ran into our parked up van, needed repairing! So off it went to be repaired. While it was there (for 2 months!) mice came in and demolished it!! It was awful when we got it back 🥺😡 Mouse droppings everywhere, eaten through our sleeping bags/bed/everything!! We were devastated!

[@bookbakery]

Buy a flat sticky. When the mouse gets stuck, you throw it in the trash. It will never bother anyone else, and mice can carry diseases.

[@nigelandsueadventures]

I’m never sure if they are mice (introduced pest) or antichinus (a native marsupial). They look very similar.

[@veganc5028]

Those traps are incredibly cruel. Shame on you 💀

[@sibelerim7997]

What a horrific thing to do! A mouse is very likely more beneficial for the Enviroment than you are.

[@JP-ki6lv]

The way a person treats animals shows their true character.

[@dawnwaka9082]

The was great! Try storage containers with lids for all food.

[@ronhanish]

peppermint spray bottle with some water mixture. Spray everything❤

[@deniseorourke7235]

Steel wool cheapest way is to get a box of steel wool soap for scrubbing pots Thanks for showing us adventurers reality

[@beekind6267]

Nope and nope. You are more woman than i will ever be. God bless you!!!!!!!

[@mcuz2164]

I could never deal with that. The spider did it for me. Nope