10 Things I HATE About VAN LIFE and RV Living from a Digital Nomad

10 Things I HATE About VAN LIFE and RV Living from a Digital Nomad - Have you ever wondered what it would be like be RV living full time but don't know the ins and outs of this minimalist lifestyle? Today I'm showing you the 10 things I hate about van life and RV living that I've learned over the last 3.5 years of RV travel as a digital nomad, solo traveller, and travel vlogger.
I love this RV lifestyle that allows me to chase my dreams, explore, and build a business on the road. I love the minimalism aspect of this life - of simple living without so much stuff. Hopefully, my minimalist nomad life will inspire you to think about the advantages to this lifestyle (which will be coming up in next weeks video called, Minimalist Living in a Van | 10 Reasons Why I Live in a Van as a Digital Nomad.
Since starting out on this journey of solo travel, I've learned a lot about what I like and don't like about van life, the ups and downs of vanlife, and also the pros and cons. I try to document my experience through my solo travel vlog here on KZbin and my blog, to provide as much information about living in a van and full time travel.
So, this is the downside of RV life, traveling alone, vanlife, and living in a camper van. I hope you enjoy and learn some things to do and not to do along the way.
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★ My Story
Hi, I'm Amber and in May 2017 I started full time RV living. I started this nomadic journey after selling my house and all my belongings to pursue this crazy dream of traveling full time in an RV and creating incredible memories.
After 1 year of traveling, I sold my 26 foot Winnebago Class C RV for a more nimble Class B van on a Promaster 2500 chassis. Now in my 4th year of RVing in my camper van, I'm still loving this RV lifestyle and being a digital nomad. I almost always boondock in nature and really enjoy that off grid living.
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• 10 Things I HATE About...
#vanlife #thingsIhateaboutvanlife #digitalnomad

[@AmberJBaldwin]

★ 🌟🌟Check out the Story Chasing Exclusive Members-Only Community: kzbin.infojoin 🌟🌟 ★ 🌟 Sign up for my How to Create a Thriving KZbin Business and Market it for Success course: www.storychasing.com/KZbincourse ★ 🌟FREE COURSES: Looking to transition to a full-time nomad, work remotely, and start a business on the road: ►FREE Masterclass on transforming your dreams with my Insider Secrets to Manifesting Your Dream Life and Travel Full Time: 🌟 Join →→ www.storychasing.com/masterclass Turn Your Dreams Into Reality: ►FREE Cheatsheet: storychasing.mykajabi.com/create-do-live ►Blog Post with More details: www.storychasing.com/how-to-turn-your-dreams-into-reality/ ★ Free Mini-Course on Expenses & Budgeting for Travel: Get my full annual budget including personal expenses, a budget template for you, learn how to budget for your travels, and tips on saving money in your budget so you can start traveling sooner and live your best life. ►www.storychasing.com/rvexpenseminicourse ★ Tip Jar: www.storychasing.com/tipjar __________ RECOMMENDED GEAR, TOOLS, EQUIPMENT: AT&T Unlimited/Uncapped/No Throttled Data Plan: ► www.storychasing.com/att All My Gear in one location for you to browse: ► www.Amazon.com/shop/StoryChasing Travel Programs ► Join Xscapers: www.storychasing.com/xscapers ► Join Harvest Host: www.storychasing.com/harvesthosts

[@amieloria6319]

Thank you very much for this ideas😀😀😀👍👍👍

[@Em22-wtf]

Lol, most of this sounds like 8 reasons I Hate Small Apartment Living! ;) I don't have the shower or shi11er issues, though, lol! AND as a female, I cant imagine dealing with, ya know...visits from 'Aunt Flow'...lol! Being in a van, w no proper shower, no flushing toilet and no dumpster to toss the trash into. I had to deal with that once while camping for the weekend, and it happened thankfully on the last evening and I was going home the next day. It sucked and my tent neighbors (friends as well) all picked up their tents and moved just in case a bear came around, LOL!! So stupid, lol! But funny now when I look back at it!

[@cartgamerytcarter5729]

I don't know why van lifers stress so much about toilets. Composting is messy and expensive. Cassettes is messy and expensive. Five gallon bucket with toilet seat lid, garbage bags to line, kitty litter, no smell..you are welcome😎

[@vanessahenry7238]

cartgamerYT carter HAY my mum was mentioning something like that. She reminded me of when I worked/lived on a 19th c Scooner! I had the cooks ‘apt’ which is like the a adult size child trainer toilet with a gallon sized ‘Cup’. So the casing was made of wood, with a wooden lid! You put a plastic bag in it (harder to do now in San Francisco - Plastic bags have been banned so you put in a Smal trash can bag in it! The lid also keeps smells at bay, But what she also said was put cat litter in the bottom and maybe rodent fluff - it has smell blocker. So when you are done you wait till you get near a dumpster, close it well and throw it away!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

😀

[@zeuschronos446]

Try using sawdust , must not be completely dry, chainsaw sawdust from your firewood cutting works great, line bucket with about 2 in. for #2, a full bucket of sawdust for urine. Putting human waste in a plastic bag, is a bad Idea. Your creating conditions to create disease and reintroduce plagues. When you dig bit of sod carefully, do your business, then carefully cover it. Within hours the wild life will reclaim it, Their digestive systems will kill anything harmfull. Mixing human waste with water always was a bad idea. RV'ers just bringing the bad ideas of "civilized life" out into the wilderness. And I'm sure the wastewater management practices at campgrounds are even worse that in cities.

[@TaylorMeadowSun]

Zeus Chronos thank you for saying this! I always wondered about throwing away plastic bags of poop. That can’t be good...

[@Cypher7697]

Well,will using a paper bag better?double protect it with another paper bag of course😉

[@gumshoe5365]

Amber a suggestion: when you leave your van locked up to go into the market try playing and leaving on a Bluetooth radio for noise. Thief’s will think , with the TV or radio playing you are inside.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Great idea Donna!

[@mobilehomelife4028]

@SmellyCat Ditto, great Idea!

[@minabrite]

When it rains, I get a awesome shower naturally. I love rains.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Love it. Thanks so much and thanks for watching MIna.

[@hotmessmissy-artnrving998]

Mina, that sounds so glorious. Nothing beats the smell of a rainfall shower. LOL, I just never done one intentionally. 😄

[@PositiveMommaLife]

Get a WiFi ring security camera with motion sensors enabled so when there is motion in your van, you are notified. If you see someone breaking in you can call the police from where ever you are.

[@peprally6606]

She’ll stay getting notified because of her pet inside.

[@krypton1982]

You forgot one, "Sex life dies." Probably more as a guy. Most women don't wanna date a guy living in a van down by the river.

[@haizekhaze8868]

Imma lez, 22yrs old andI can relate. I must never tell anyone in the IT corp. World...ever that I live as I do. 😉

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

I never had a bottle of jerkins call the law and lie to the police because it was not happy about something.

[@professionalpainthuffer]

It goes the other way, too. My boyfriend is literally too tall to ah, enjoy time in my van. We camp, or get a hotel for a weekend in winter. Not ideal!

[@cmcdonald5319]

I just wrote a long post about this on another video where a guy talked about what he hate about vanlife and moved back to an apartment. ..You were much more succinct though. So many things I can see working against your dating life. Lol

[@professionalpainthuffer]

@Joe Blow I'm working on my master's in computer engineering and pulled 50k last year at 22 so no I don't think that's it.

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

I don't like the truck camper when I feel threatened. I can't just go to the front and drive away. I have to exit the camper, and walk around to the driver's door.

[@kmcca204]

No need to exit camper to get into truck. No one else does. Most people with truck campers by a truck with sliding rear window, this lines up perfectly with the sliding window positioned at front of camper under foot end of the bed. ThIs let’s you crawl from inside camper directly into back seat of truck and vice versa for whatever reason, including emergencies. Or as a quick access to anything in back seat of your truck without leaving camper. The big draw back to me for truck campers is 1) cost of 1 ton dually truck even used your looking at $45k or $60k + for new, and you haven’t even bought the camper yet for that price and 2) they take forever to load and offload. You have to be precisely exact when loading, there is no margin of error for an half inch off one direction or other left/right as your backing under it to load. You have a center of gravity line on front of truck camper that has to line up precisely with the center of gravity line on truck bed. It may take you an hour or more just loading it on truck or off loading it at campsite due to how precise you have to be.

[@kungpoo8876]

Am hour???? Sounds like you need more driving practice

[@cigarmann]

I think a lot of the issues you're having can be resolved by getting a custom build. This is the direction I plan to go and I know this is not always practical. I want at least a 40 gallon water tank and I want a large shower stall that can be configured for multiple uses. As to the toilet I plan to use a composting type, no black tank

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Cigarmann I totally agree. Good luck on your build too! Thanks for watching and commenting! I so appreciate it and you! 🙏😊

[@pjf7943]

A truly 'wishful' liberal response... Maybe you can 'GIFT/CONTRIBUTE' to her the cost of a "custom build"....????? LOL! Or, she can get a job and pay for a real roof over her head..???

[@TWROC96]

@@pjf7943 You, no doubt, would be a miserable bastard whether you are in a custom built van or not. So stay home and continue to watch your hate filled Fox news and fester over right wing websites because you not being on the road makes it a little better for those that are.

[@cigarmann]

@@TWROC96 no doubt of pjf's political lean.....

[@kellyname5733]

Many folks are doing away with their black tanks in exchange for more portable water. Yep...no black tanks for me!

[@lisabailon1010]

I live in a van a work van. Have a grate that has a door that separates the cab from the back of the van. I put locks on both sides. Also installed a black out curtain across the back of van. So from outside you see black. I have a cps tracker on my van and a app on my phone. Also installed a kill switch. I have slide locks on my doors from in side except drivers door. I also have crates I put on windows. I have a shower and composting toilet that's easy. I love my van and it's the right vehicle for me. I takes planning. I live in Florida got solar panels, solar lights, solar chargers. I have a dog and he loves it too.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Lisa Bailon That's super cool! Good luck with your van too and thanks for all of your info. What are the slide locks?

[@lisabailon1010]

@@AmberJBaldwin it's a bar that slides down to a L bracket almost on the bottom of door. It makes it so if the break the window or break the door they still can't get in because the latch is on. You can pull the arm up in a emergency. My dad had they in his van. Also installed diamond plate boxes under seats to lock up valuables. Bolt threw floor.

[@zeuschronos446]

Reminds me of Mad Max "Fury Road" a sequence of Kill Switches !! Furiosa is smokin Hott, But with all the gas guzzling,loud Hot Rod's in the movie its hard to Focus on the Women. Please everyone by an electric car, save the gas for real cars !

[@susie9893]

@@lisabailon1010 Hi. Good info but that kinda sounds like you can't open the windows on those doors?

[@dianeduncan9827]

I remember when I lived in an RV for almost a year, yes the shower thing.... Then getting a chance for a long hot real shower... I suddenly realized how therapeutic hot water was, I would have never had so much happiness from a simple hot shower had I not gone without one for such a long time

[@AmberJBaldwin]

So true! Thanks for watching!

[@susie9893]

Yes, it's so important to learn to appreciate the luxuries that we take for granted - showers, flushing toilets, running water, refrigeration

[@shawneeb3771]

Thank you for an honest review of van life. I can't imagine being sick and in a van. I think I would be sick in a bag in a bucket and throw it out. Thanks for sharing.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Shawnee I totally agree. Thanks for watching and commenting! I so appreciate it and you! 🙏😊

[@MyEmptyNestQuest]

I go back and forth from love to hate this life, lol! So glad you made this video as I was thinking....am I the only one that has bad days about living this way. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@AmberJBaldwin]

MyEmptyNestQuest 😀 lol..Nope you aren't the only one...haha.

[@ImAnneJillian]

I love watching videos like this, helps me plan my van layout even better. Thanks for making this video!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad it was helpful!😀

[@nieco2528]

Great video Amber!!! Love to watch the Pros of vanlife videos but Cons are very important!!! Thanks for sharing!!!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Life After Adventures You're so welcome and thank you for commenting and watching. Not only does it make me happy, but it helps others to see this video! Pros coming up Thursday!

[@katydidnt3906]

Oh, lord, yes - the vanlife shuffle. NEVER ending! But you do get into a routine. I'm still tweaking things 11 months in. I have aha moments where I wonder why a simple change that makes things so much easier took me so long to figure out!

[@neitzp]

I needed this video. Thank you for doing this!

[@mbnyus]

Interesting, the shower limitations and the lack of space are for me the stronger points I don't think a van could be a good option for me. Thank you for your honesty and for showing the "dark side" of van life.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You're so welcome Marcelo! When do you think you'll get a van?

[@gregstravels1121]

I really enjoy your videos. In my travels, I have decided to never get in a hurry and I limit my driving to no more than three hours per day. I'm getting pretty good at trip planning. I wish you much Happiness.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

That is awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@gkemp2887]

I immediately went to a motel when i got sick both ends. Not in my van! Haha Don't get sick!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

G Kemp 😀 That sucks huh?

[@cmcdonald5319]

GREAT IDEA!

[@mikemanjo2458]

Thanks for keeping your videos real. It’s really good to know the downsides so no one is surprised by things they didn’t think of before starting vanlife.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I appreciate that! Thanks so much and thanks for watching Mike.

[@mobilehomelife4028]

You are 100% correct about listing the good and bad. I am converting a small bus and these points are very, very helpful. Much of my cleaning will be out of my sink as well. I see your list as a positive, since you mentioned remodeling this is a great opportunity to share and I cannot wait to the see the remodel and your 10 things you love about van life.

[@Stonyboot]

Another great video, Amber!👏We can relate to SO MANY things! We hated our work space, so Scott custom built an office for us. We also carry extra water, so we can boondock and shower. We also agree on having noisy neighbors and city camping. We loved it out west with a ton of free boondocking out in the nature. Can’t wait for your next video!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

So true! I love your new workspace! I have to do something similiar but I'll have to remove the bathroom and bench seat, which I'm okay with.

[@ivegotmoxie986]

First video that is more truthful about life on the road. I spent a year in a crew cab pick up without a cap. Lots of outdoor time! I could relate to each and every concern you mentioned. The anxiety of leaving your "house" in a parking area really resonated . I love to explore, but honestly it makes you do a rethink at times, as to have a "smash and grab" moment would be really difficult under those circumstances. There were a few cities, where it was recommended not to park for sightseeing. Actually rented a car and left the house in a safe place. Its not all glamorous, but it was an amazing adventure.

[@CellasChariot]

This is really good that you shared these realities...I think a lot of VanLifers don't show the real parts of living nomadic and we need to know these things of everyday life so as not to have false expectations. Thanks for sharing Amber!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Michelle Cella Schleis I totally agree. Thanks for watching and commenting! I so appreciate it and you! 🙏😊

[@Karin6509]

I'm so glad I watched this video! I'm still in the planning stage of deciding what rig I want to get and I hadn't thought about being homeless while repairs are done. That's a big consideration, especially if you have a pet. Thanks for sharing!

[@shellyscott6447]

Wow alot of good points!! Thank you for sharing :)

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@talleysartstudio]

I have rain gutters for the rain. Fills up the tanks. Something people don't think about. Never run out of water in tropical states.

[@Curiousnessify]

is there a product that does this or you just made something yourself?

[@talleysartstudio]

I had to custom make it. Need a really good filtration/water purifier system for drinking. But its great for showers.

[@davepalmetto]

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

[@jenniferdeleon8954]

Awesome video! Thank you for the real talk!!❤️

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@EatSleepRVRepeat]

Great points to consider. Being sick and being alone is never good. Tbh...we really, really love your van. Our rv is 20 feet on the outside & 15x7 feet living space. We do the shuffle but are working on a new purge. Lou & Angie

[@AmberJBaldwin]

That is awesome! Thank you.

[@Tyler-ti9hn]

Just found your channel your awesome and extremely easy on the eyes 😀I'll be staying tuned. Thanks

[@carolyn6290]

You go girlie! I really enjoy your honesty and your videos. I long to taste the adventure of just going and traveling, seeing the usa, maybe one day.Take care & be safe.

[@garyofnyc]

Honesty! Refreshing. Thank you.

[@RiDankulous]

I'm sorry to hear you have back problems and hope you feel well. I am happy you told me about the issues. Instead of a stepstool an idea I saw in another van life video is to make a wooden furniture piece that is a storage box but is also a step stool. No need to be moving stools around then, less wasted space. I'm glad you seem to be generally happy, thanks!

[@multidimensionaltraveler806]

Great things to point out some things i have not even considered

[@jamesnoel5173]

Laughing about the 'cook my meals half naked' comment! Whenever I see thumbnails with half naked women I skip over them. They aren't selling van life. :)

[@AmberJBaldwin]

James Noel I totally agree. lol. I almost cut that thinking I might offend someone, but heck it's true. I mean if they want to cook naked that's cool, but I know for sure that's not what they all do. Thanks for watching and commenting! I so appreciate it and you! 🙏😊

[@jamesnoel5173]

@@AmberJBaldwin You're one of my faves, I plan on hitting the road in one year, hope to run into you sometime! Kind regards.

[@susie9893]

No I think they ARE selling van life. But like a lot of 'selling' it's a crock. I skip too. I wanna see the ordinary ppl doing it for real - the ppl who are living in the real world with real world concerns like earning money and finding places to stay etc

[@TheDawnofVanlife]

Great video. So much direct truth. Loved the van looking imperfect in that "just landed in my spot" moment. These vans look way too picture perfect all the time and I know after driving down a rough road, the results of Hurricane Van and all the stuff I put on the bed so it wouldn't fall are exactly that. As long as it's not puring storms and wind, I don't mind being out in the rain.

[@MsTraveler360]

Thank you. You are SO real and I agree with all of your points.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

MsTraveler360 Thanks so much! ☺️

[@scotthenning2890]

Amber very good points. Things to think about it. Especially getting sick 🤒. I learn so much from you and the other van life people who have channels. Thank you for sharing. Thanks for doing through Negative ones first. Looking forward to the positive ones 👍🏻😊

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@virginia_in_the_rearview]

Great video! Being a future bus lifer, I appreciate your honesty and desire to share your experiences with others. I'm actually looking at doing a recirculating shower, cause I'm a shower snob. 😁

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Lisa Gray Thanks so much! ☺️ lol shower snob! I love it too, but sometimes just not so practical unless you have a huge water tank, but then you have to carry all that water which weighs down the vehicle and causes less fuel efficiency. We all have to pick what's most important right. Good luck with your bus build.

[@livingintheforest3963]

Thanks for being honest because I feel like they make the picture so Rosy for people and it’s important for people to know all the downside. I live way off the grid but I know so many people watch KZbin and think our lives are so perfect when there’s a lot we are really missing out on and losing that you get in a city so it’s really important for people to see both sides I’m glad you’re presenting this.

[@louisguthrie7286]

Very good points. At least in a van you don't have to tag team camp sites like with a travel trailer. Thank you Amber for being real, especially about the black tank options. Stay Beautiful

[@susandeckert9286]

Great video Amber. Thanks for being real.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@stephenstringer3689]

Glad to see someone post real world experiences. I like your van and hope you keep and renovate it. I think I would replace the toilet with a C head composting toilet. Doesn't take much room, no need for exhaust and can be easily removed to make the small shower useable. Use to cassette area to add an outdoor shower...can't believe they didn't have one but that's euro influence. Easier fix is too hang a rod and curtain between the back doors and use one of the many outdoor shower options. Getting away from generator campers makes it all worthwhile (and more private to shower outside, lol). Good job on this one!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I just might replace it with a composting for sure. Thanks for watching as always.

[@lolalee7071]

Thank you Amber, for sharing some of the possible cons of van-life. Hopefully, some day I could realize this van-life-dream! I’m a fan of your realistic, honest and informative videos! 😘🙏😊

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Best of luck! Thanks so much and thanks for watching Lola!

[@lolalee7071]

Thank you Amber! I really appreciate your work! 😘🙏😷

[@securwoman]

Good video. Great thought provoking ideas.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you think so!

[@reyscottm9]

Thanks for the candid look at the tough stuff. I knew the day you talked about your cassette tank that you'd be talking about upgrading to a composting toilet in the near future. Lol. I would love to see a video about your day in the life while stuck inside during a rain storm. Perspective is everything. Thanks for the upload. I'm going to post the second comment shortly.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Rey Scott You're welcome and thanks so much for watching! lol on the toilet!

[@JAe-jc1uk]

I’m glad you brought up your dog. How do you keep her from getting too hot or cold while the van is off? Everybody’s pets look fine and happy, so there’s obviously a way!

[@santadog9]

I have a ceiling fan/vent. It's powered by the van while driving, and when I park, it's powered by my Goal Zero lithium 1400. If I crack the front windows about 2 inches, and set the fan to suck air out, my large Transit van becomes the same temp as the outdoors in a few minutes. I was in 88F heat out west, and the inside of my van was also 88F with circulation. Shade helps. :) Cold: Space heater.

[@haizekhaze8868]

I built an ac unit from what is also my igloo cooler as well. I use dry ICe and I use regular floor vent switches to help with air control. Honest. I can send pictures!! I have painted it and everything. Also, use craftsman powerful battery charged fans, buy a 400w inverter from wallie mart for $20 too for quick charges!!!😇🤗🐾

[@JAe-jc1uk]

@@haizekhaze8868 It all sounds good, but I’d love details because I can’t picture it. What is the temp inside on a 90 degree F day? Please tag me in a video if you do one about this.

[@rozswartzett180]

Good info🙏😊

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks for liking

[@katryanaorange2092]

You're glowing!! Beautiful 🌞

[@augustcalderaro3797]

Thank you for sharing reality to my dreams. Preparing to live in a converted cargo trailer going boondocking mostly. So thanks again for a reality check!!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Best of luck!

[@Banagal]

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly episode 1 was an honest view of the realities of solo-van life. Thank you for sharing 10 of the real-life not-so-fun parts of your daily life. The eyes-wide-open view is helpful in the decision process of planning a NOMAD life. Well done!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Ramona DeLaney You're welcome and thanks so much for watching!

[@1jackvalley580]

I really like your honest comfortable assessment of van life. It really makes sense that there will be some pain in the butt things to deal with when your in a van or RV. One plus I can tell you is that a van is 100% better built than an RV, there is no comparison, this is a Proven fact. That's a big plus for the nice well built van your in. The plus to an RV is the luxury of the size allowing for a shower, toilet, counter, cupboard and storage space which is all so wonderful. I am thinking about whether I am going to purchase a larger van or a truck and a RV. Like you said, if your van breaks down and it needs to be repaired where do you sleep? But a van can be repaired quickly, surly within 24 hours because parts are easy to get. An RV can sometimes take a month or more to get the parts to repair, and this is NOT UNCOMMON. I think the way I may do it is purchase a big delivery truck with a lot of space, and have it gutted and draw up diagrams to have it rebuilt inside. The hard part is finding the right person who has a lot of experience doing it. Let's us know if you make any changes, Happy Trails🚎

[@marirose756]

Well Amber. I’m a new sub🥳!! Thought I already was subbed bc your vids kept coming thru my feed but I think I was hitting save to “Watch Later.” Glad I did bc you rock! Even as you tell us what you hate abt #Vanlife you add how you resolve/mitigate the issue or how you hope to. That’s something I always appreciate in various ppls’ vlogs. I’m now going to go watch the 10 things you love abt vanlife & binge on the others. Don’t have a vanlife vehicle so probably won’t sign up for your boot camp; will likely share news of it on my social media accounts. Am really looking fwd to that to watching all your vlogs. You’re right btw. Your channel is growing!!☀️The reason I kept hitting watch later (& finally did) was bc other ppl recommended your channel. Please stay safe from the wildfires & incredibly wacky weather & of course from the pandemic. I strangely enough got the 2009 version of the Type A (as opposed to Type B which isn’t as dangerous) Swine Flu in 2014!! Had a fever of 105 degrees that didn’t respond to any fever reducing medicines, which my husband was hoping would work while i didn’t even realize how high my temp was getting! Sheesh. If I’d been living alone I would have died bc I lost all sense of time, began hallucinating, had no realization I was as sick as I was. Between my husband (we were engaged at the time) & one of my daughters, I got up to the ER by ambulance, was immediately admitted, finally diagnosed after 3 days but there was much more to the story which I won’t bore you with right now. Suffice it to say, I had no idea, as I said, that I was as ill as I was so I never would have called an ambulance & that would have been all she wrote if I’d lived alone. So Amber. Thnx for your great channel. I look forward to getting to know you through your vlogs.Peace out!✌🏼 PS That cast iron skillet is stunning!! Wherever did you get it? Who’s the maker & price? Size? Family heirloom? Do you have a vlog on which are your essential gadgets? Sorry this has been so long....Hope it helps your YT algorithm 😉

[@Alicealexandra4]

Yes! Love this. Agree 100%, I hate leaving my van in any parking lot and walking away from it. Even if I know it will probably be fine I can’t help but always worry. And no one talks about the van shuffle, which is a non stop multiple time a day thing if you’re a city dweller like me. Always something that needs to be moved from the bed to the floor or front. People make their vans to seem like they don’t have random stuff laying around, but we allll do and as much as we try to find everything a home sometimes it just lives next to us somewhere.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Alice...hahaha yes. It drives me nuts sometimes, but I just learn to live with it. What kind of a van do you have? Are you mostly urban?

[@Parlorjam]

Great video! Thanks! 😊

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Jamie Cuaresma You're welcome and thanks so much for watching!

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

A slight suggestion...I get this from living in a very small room. I have found that containers are my bff now lol...I know there's not a lot of space but maybe just try to figure out a big enough container to hold those loose things (except for maybe the pan) to put those in that can fit somewhere snug? I've had to rearrange many times in this small room and use of those has definitely gone up

[@dandydan2037]

Way too many people hit the road with unrealistic expectations they got from irresponsible Nomads/van lifers that only show the good times and awesome places. More videos really need to be produced of the downside to van life. People need to understand that though the life is suited for some it can be good however, it is not suited for everyone and in fact the van life is not an easy life unless you have the money to and plan to stay in RV parks and established campgrounds. Too many videos of sunshine, lollipops and farts smelling like roses which encourages unprepared people to ditch everything and hit the road only to find disappointment and and wind up in a bad place to which some can not over come. Just my humble opinion of coarse...

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Dandy Dan I totally agree. Thanks for watching and commenting! I so appreciate it and you! 🙏😊

[@dianahollenbeck9986]

Van life in RV parks would be hell to me. Like Amber, I much MUCH prefer the freedom that comes from boondocking.

[@kellyname5733]

Im in favor of part time RVing with a home base, whether that be a stix & bricks, owned land or some other backup option. This Covid time has hopefully taught some valuable lessons to many. You just don't know what twists and turns life has for us.

[@RicardoRoams]

@@kellyname5733 , You're right about COVID-19. Last fall I seriously thought about selling my house and hitting the road permanently. But I just couldn't pull the trigger. When COVID-19 struck, I was sure glad I didn't sell. Being able to come back to a home base made all the difference when I self quarantined.

[@susie9893]

@@RicardoRoams personally Covid has taught me I'd RATHER be on the road. Was ok for a while but now I'm going a bit stir crazy and getting out of the city as much as possible. Would be heaps cheaper if I was just living in van or car. But work wise I just can't do it (and definitely not thru Covid when gyms got closed and are major risk when open) MUST have a shower after every shift and just can't figure how to make that work (sometimes get off shift and so tired can barely see straight - I just know I'd leave valuables at gym or leave car unlocked or something stupid)

[@Manangdi22]

I still believe that camper van is just thay, for camping, occasional road trips but not fulltime. I need to shower everyday. I've been looking for a class B for weekend use and traveling for a short period at a time. Also, if you've been in that confined space for a long time, i would need to keep downgrading, not accumulating so there is not too much clutter. Goodluck on your adventure and I appreciate the real talk.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I totally agree! You're so welcome and thanks for watching!

[@Lucy_Honeychurch]

I guess the bottom line is no matter what your circumstances, there are positives and negatives. I live in a high rise surrounded by nosey and crazy neighbours but I have a couch and a full shower and bath. I can take out my sewing machine and do some sewing whenever I want, but I have to clear everything off before I can serve dinner, so sometimes I don’t sew because it’s a pain in the but to set up and then put everything away. But if I had a sewing room, something else would get on my nerves. Being human is tough.

[@KevinRStrauss]

Thanks for sharing the truth about van life. It really helps to know all sides of this lifestyle.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@barrywatler7482]

Only just started watching your video the first was 3 years Full Time RV I will certainly be looking for others on you tube, you present really well and your adventure is perfect your happy content and obviously love what you are doing stay safe in these troubling times Cheers 💕

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Welcome aboard!

[@vanlifebiker]

Good job. I'm documenting my build on a new channel I just started teaching electrical which is needed & other trades along the way. Good to know the negatives. 😎👍

[@mrslcom]

A Class C may not solve all the negatives but it would make a huge difference. A Class B van requires too many sacrifices and compromises.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Except I love the nimbleness of the van. For example I just did the Going to the Sun Road in Glacier NP and it's limited to 21 feet. I wouldn't have been able to do that. There's sacrifices with any rig though. Thanks for watching Tanah!

[@amieloria6319]

Thanks for the ideas about Vanlife😀😀👍👍 I loved the amazing beautiful places you've been👍👍😀😀 more success😀👍

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you! You too!

[@SSR00000]

Thank you for your brutal honesty. It has confirmed a lot of considerations I am having while planning my fulltime life on the road.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@jackiedaytona9693]

Thank you for being honest... unlike most of these other van life KZbinrs.

[@philipjanek3864]

I gave a thumbs up btw👍

[@rad4627]

You’re a very likable human being, I really enjoyed the information and listening to you. You come across with your information very neutral and pleasant. All the best, salute, cheersWatching from Florida

[@moandjen]

I’m not sure how I missed this video but just seeing it. When you said “cook my meals half naked” I lost it 😂😂😂 Those thumbnails crack me up. Mark always says “I guess they are not frying bacon” 😝

[@sharonanspach2734]

Interesting that you just did this type of video. After camping 2x in my new tiny travel trailer, I am going through the same cons as you have mentioned..I am leaving in a week to travel/camp up to NC and I already feel overwhelmed. I have come to the conclusion that this will be the last long trip I do and will just camp in my homestate of FL.. my travel trailer is a 5x8 and I have a cot, cooler, and a few storage areas along with my dog and bird..My intentions will be to camp every month for 1 week..no boondocking for me lol..I need my air conditioner, fan and microwave..but always enjoy watching videos of others so that i can continue seeing the world through your eyes..Maybe 1 day i'll get something larger, but for now, i'll stick with what i bought..and stay close to home..Living full time i guess is not for me..I am 64 yrs old

[@AmberJBaldwin]

It's all good Sharon. You're learning and figuring it out and exploring still. That's all it takes. These things can all be mitigated too. Thanks for watching as always! Take care and safe travels.

[@melissasherlock3063]

Thanks for giving the honest info, want to know all the true real cons.

[@dianahollenbeck9986]

Have you thought about a DIY high top cargo van? I ❤️ my van and made some very conscious choices (no upper cabinets and bench seat that converts to bed - for example). My van is pretty spacious feeling, but I totally get the shuffle. You'll figure out what works for you. ❤

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Maybe one day! I'm thinking of converting what I already have and making it more about what I want if I don't do the truck camper.

[@rrhopewell]

Great video. You never think of stuff like that unless it happens to you. Thanks for sharing

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You got that right!

[@rrhopewell]

☺️☺️☺️

[@Rain3Silver]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts and experiences with Van Life. There is always the good and bad in life. Everyone has their own situation that they are dealing with and how it effects them. This doesn't mean they really don't care for the Van life. As you said that you Love the Van Life! That would be all the benefits and perks of Van life. The Ying and Yang of Life! It is always good to hear someones issues and situations that they have experienced and this will give others advice in dealing with those situations, that they may not have thought about. I love to travel and drive and be out in nature too. I hope you have wonderful day and many happy trails.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

😀

[@moneybee]

Haha the vanlife shuffle sounds like quite the routine!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

It is! lol!

[@JAe-jc1uk]

I feel like I’d be more annoyed finding a spot and leveling the van.

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

About the shuffle, use a clothes basket for this . I live in a small place where my dish washing happens outside. Rather than making multiple small trips I grab the clothes basket and I'm done much quicker.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks for the tip!

[@greggrc2127]

1st. time watching your videos ,and only about 12 videos in total on RV life which I have never ever done .But I am very interested in starting .I must say you really grab peoples attention on the way you explain situations the way you view them straight forward

[@Sabrinac412]

Thank you for sharing the realities. (I’ve heard coffee grinds are good to cover up vomit...maybe a cheap container lined with bags for sick days, then toss it)

[@AmberJBaldwin]

That's a great idea! Didn't know that.

[@Sabrinac412]

Story Chasing Baking Soda could be an alternative as well. I wish you safe and healthy travels 😊

[@alifeofdiversions3174]

I think you need a shuttle. They have beefy engines for where you want to go and a ton more room. And screens work wonders for keeping out dirt. I wouldn’t puke in that same toilet. They have collapsible buckets, cheap. Love the realness!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

😀

[@tsav6952]

Wow don't think I would want a class B now. Maybe for leisure traveling with occasional boon docking. Great video, very honest assessment. Happy travels!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much and thanks for watching T Sav.

[@DebbraLupien_AkashicRecords]

Great new intro! Really appreciate the thought provoking video. What about temperature extremes? Do you often have to move for that reason?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks for noticing and commenting Debbra! Oh yes I do have to move for weather. Most of the time I know the average temps in the area, but sometimes you'll have a heat wave come through or you see a really bad storm coming that could prevent you from getting out of the dirt roads because of mud.

[@MrZeissOne]

If you don't already do it, you might keep a small amount of water in the toilet bowl as an odor buffer. Replace each time you flush. A little scented , natural tank treatment helps,also, as does a tiny bit of Febreeze or air freshener in the toilet area. I save plastic grocery bags for small trash and puking, when necessary, and tie the bag with the "handles", then deposit the small bag into a 13 gal kitchen bag which has a draw tie. I dispose of the 13 gal bag sometimes before it is full, if I have packed it with smaller bags of " disagreeable" substances. Absolutely not a very Green solution, but sometimes compromises need to be made in the pursuit of a healthy living space. Biodegradable plastic bags are available, as are some pretty good, large paper bags. At least I'm repurposing my grocery bags.

[@slalomking]

gzeisser the problem with all these bag solutions is, what about the health of the poor simp who has to empty all your vomit and poop just so you can gaivant around the country side ????

[@mildredlackey1938]

Amber, I can understand all your saying about ,,van life,, we had a 28 ft. TT and I actually kept myself so busy I got into every craft I could find, your such a capable young lady it will be great to see what you decide about your truck camper, I have always though about it too, have a wonderful day,

[@AmberJBaldwin]

mildred lackey Thanks so much! ☺️

[@peterpowell6168]

Lot's of good info. Thought of air sickness bags like on airplanes?? I love long hot shower 🚿 for the reals. Glad you brought up water issues. I look forward to your next video about best things about rv/van life. Once fire's calm down here in Ca I hope to go up to Oregon coast. Take care

[@AmberJBaldwin]

That's a cool road to explore. Good luck!

[@nonnoinsandiego8303]

I appreciate your candor and thought provoking issues. I find this type of video more helpful than the everything is wonderful and skimpily dressed women and their models boyfriends. Happy trails, to you.

[@Pam-R290]

The Ginger Walkabout installed a Lagun mount on her table and completely made it a workable table for work and life. It moves easily out of the way when not needed and pulls out quite far for work. I am installing my Lagun mount on my table today since I work full time too. I’m hoping it will work as well for me because I have a different model. Another thing I found that has been a complete game changer for me working full time from the road is Portable Laptop Monitors. I have two attached to my laptop giving me three monitors to work on. And they take up so little space being attached to my monitor! Also, they attach with simple magnets, so you can remove them whenever needed. Mine are the Trio by Mobile Pixels. They’re worth checking out.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Oh wow thanks for that! I'll need to check it out.

[@Pam-R290]

Story Chasing Amber, in addition I saw a YT video on how to install a Lagun mount on your model Class B. Also, you could simply replace your table top with one that is slightly longer. I saw beautiful ready made ones on line with a compass design on the top.

[@aliucar4727]

Your breathless expression was great. Stay happy and healthy.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

hahaa...I have many of those don't I?

[@Lotuslaful]

Helpful:)! Thank you:)

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You're welcome!

[@ghaywood902]

Thank you for your honesty. Van life has its down side

[@dianeduncan9827]

Just the way life is, presenting us with challenges to create ingenious adaptations... nice to have all the time in the world to go within and connect to the Divine. Inspiration and joy will be present.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Absolutely!

[@penscruffy60]

Really liked your honesty. Things people should consider b4 making the investment 👍

[@bobculhane4746]

Enjoyed the Tetons and sink hair. Hope to buy a pickup and truck camper this summer. I'm so ready to get out there Amber.

[@gerger7287]

I purchase some soft luggage, and I put a lot of bulky items in the luggage, and you can kind of throw that around so they don't bounce all over the place. I do that in a camper. One good thing about a camper if it gets wrecked or the engine goes you can just get a new engine or a new truck, but it's hard to do that with the van or a motorhome. Also I would suggest getting a double or triple sided patio canopy awning, with screens on it, it provides a great place to work. During the daytime and sometimes in the evening. It really doubles or triples the size of your van, and if you don't want to get an awning, you can also get one of those bug free tents and put them up they assemble and just a couple of minutes, and then you can go outdoors and said in the Shaded tent with the screen and have your portable desk and computer out there and it works real good during the daytime. It allows you to get outside and forget it. For the toilet, I usually got it. Mine maybe in the evening hours when it's dark, and away from The unit, dig a hole and let the contents go into the ground and then put the dirt on top of it and nobody knows what's underneath there it just decomposes. showers are rough but you might want to try one of those hang on outdoor solar showers, you can get a large container and heat the water and just take a nice bath on the outside and it doesn't crap up the inside. I have a wet bath, on the interior which I do use. some people also get a inflatable little children swimming pool and put it outside, and just get some warm stove water and put it in there and then just sit in. Plastic pool, and just get the water up around you if you're in kind of a private area. You don't have to use a lot of water just a couple of gallons. Many people carry that kind of water on their front bumper the rear bumper in containers on the outside of the rig. It's like having a small bathtub on the outside of your RV

[@joseleysa5137]

I'll be retiring soon and can't wait to be out there. I love nature.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Hope you love it!

[@myytchannel6632]

I was going to start my van life. Then I watched this Amber's video. Then I put all my things back into my house. Thanks, Amber. Lol, just kidding. I am glad the good outweighs the bad for you. Enjoy.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

lol too funny. Yes just do it! This isn't meant to deter, but to educate when you get started. Oh and have fun!!!

[@gkemp2887]

I did the shuffle when i lived in class b but i don't do that in my minivan! I actually forgot about that!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

G Kemp 😀 lol...sounds like your new set-up is better for that then.

[@wildflowers5555]

1) Baby Wipes, then Dermasil Lotion for feet. 2) Bob Wells ' CheapRVLiving', 5 Gal. Padded Bucket, with Garb.Bag Liner...and into Dumpster. (or) Use safer, pure Borax powder in any Black Tank to cut odors and germs dramatically, whitens stains also. ( Great Video!)

[@lobo940]

Hahahaha, nailed it on the feet bit!!!

[@hassanelaorf978]

I think some problems can be solved: -add small tank to WC -under the van there is some empty space that you can use to store, extra things that you do not use too much... That s what I did in mine Thanks for sharing your vedeos, l love them...

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks for the tips Hassan.