The REAL Reason Everyone Is Quitting VANLIFE

Here's our take on it....
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[@williamdavis7753]

I have lived in my van for 5 years now...paid $3500 for it...parked in the same spot for the same amount of time...I did it to save money...that is what attracted me to this way of living...and I have fallen in love with it. No channel...don't want one...don't need one...too much stress...I got into this lifestyle to eliminate unnecessary stress. Peace y'all

[@luedog8385]

van life is for introverts no these youtubers extroverts.

[@anthonypicone3463]

The point of living in a vehicle is to eliminate most expenses. The problem is people think you have to constantly be driving. That's where your expenses greatly increase. Pick a spot on public lands and just live there for a month. Then find another when you're bored etc. No need to constantly be driving around the country

[@kikokoko6228]

I know you know

[@imperialpresence1173]

they need to drive to create content...they need content so they can afford gas

[@SamiNami]

The point is international travel, if you are just going to stay in one county might as well live in a house.

[@NoteFromSELF]

@@anthonypicone3463 I like the idea of being mobile, but I would travel as much (as little) as I always did, with the exception of a few longer road trips. Financially, I would still be ahead of the game. I no longer have a desire to own a home again. In Southern California, it's just too unobtainable and undesirable. I'm truly a minimalist anyway.

[@thehillscallmemountain1969]

@@imperialpresence1173 They *think* they need to drive to create content. If that is the case, they are not using their imagination.

[@PazmanBC]

I think the funny thing about this lifestyle is there are more young people trying it & then giving it up. I think it's actually more suited for an older person who has lived life already but just wants a simpler lifestyle. I'm 55 years old this year & I'm looking into it for the first time. Now I'm single, have no kids & very little responsibility. I'm not at an age where I'm considering starting a family or looking to venture into a new career. Also my day to day expenses are extremely low & I live a pretty minimalist lifestyle. The other key to this life is not to change your lifestyle. You see so many van life channels where people start out embracing the solitude or the off grid living. I wouldn't change my lifestyle except I'd probably add more travel to it. Otherwise I'd live my same lifestyle but I'd just go home to a van instead of a small apartment.

[@digitalbreakthroughs]

I agree. I’d just want to do it as several vacations a year. Retired and no money worries, and will spend most of my time at home.

[@pchowardltd2437]

Pazman BC I come under pchoward and write something similar but keen to know how you get on as this is something I'm looking towards too

[@chrisjarmain]

So very important really regarding personal circumstances vs personal ideals. Reality is the life to be embraced in such a way that requires a specific kind of person (but isn't exclusive to) that can live in such a way as this. I say for those who tried but it didn't last though at least Well Done ✨️. Better to have a life you tried ☮️ instead of a life you fried 🔥 Turn on, tune in and drop out ❤️🤙

[@milwaukeetweed4843]

I'm glad they're at least giving it a shot

[@PazmanBC]

@@milwaukeetweed4843 There's certainly a lot of van lifers out there. I get constant new ones on my KZbin feed. The one I recently discovered who makes awesome videos is Ame In A Van. She's almost tripled her subscribers in the last 7 months. Not many growing at this rate. And I don't mean she had 3 & now she has 9. No she's gone from 71K to cover 200K in that time.

[@NoteFromSELF]

🙄 "Everyone" is quitting van life because their KZbin channels didn't take off like they thought they would.

[@sages101]

Bingo.

[@ruseruser2227]

lol SERIOUSLY you hit the nail on the head. The problem is a massive bubble of "vanlife" channels want a following first and van life second. The only true van lifers are those that don't rely on a following to drive them forward with it. If anything, I'd say the amount of those that actually want to give van life a genuine shot has gone up, particularly with the increase in ability for remote work, allowing people with the passion to make the leap without sacrificing their careers.

[@milesb4231]

No money, no problem - quit

[@ronniejai21]

@@milesb4231my motto and I’m not a vanlifer lol

[@taxicamel]

What is "van life" going to give anyone? "Freedom"? The "van" shown is NOT a "van". It's a 37' SCHOOL BUS. How much money did it cost? It's just a big "shaggin-wagon". And WHAT do you actually DO? nothin. Just another narcissist thinking the rest of the world is going to be really interested in another boring KZbinr, looking to make their living in front of their own personal camera..... but it didn't work out. What next? .....working behind a burger counter .....full time .....for the rest of your life? .

[@Bng_Rp_]

I’m 19 and I want to do the van life for a year with my mom to travel to every state. Then when we’re done, we can pick a state to live in. We have no extended family (as they are abusive) and I want her to see the world. Thank you for this information! 🥰

[@ds200O]

My bf and I want to do this to see where we want to live

[@cococock2418]

“They’re abusive” aka “they used to make me go to church on Sunday’s and they don’t approve of my weed addiction”

[@Bng_Rp_]

@@cococock2418 someone SA me from the age of 4-9. They made my mom pay rent at 13 and my grandma tried to kill my grandfather multiple times with knives. They often abused drugs and when they got old abused their medication. My uncle is the most sexist racist man you’ll ever meet. He can’t read and is obsessed about guns. He showed me a porn mag at 11. Had to move out bc 2 bedrooms for 8 ppl is too much. Later my stepdad started abusing meth in our new house. But yeah church is definitely the reason (I’ve never been to church)

[@morgann5993]

@@cococock2418​ …Are you ok? Your first response to someone saying their family is abusive is to immediately assume that they’re lying and blame them?😐 some families are just abusive, it’s not an uncommon issue?

[@morgann5993]

Best of luck to you!!

[@blazerprophet]

As an old man now, who hitch-hiked for a living in the mid 1970's as a teen, went to a van, then bought a small, old house in a mountain community and now have a small house in a mid-size area... People evolve. We are "nomadic" by design. As we age, mature... we want to try new things and our needs and desires change. I have zero regrets. I just wish my knees were good enough to get back to van life.

[@KelsAndJay]

Sounds like you have a lot of good stories for the campfires haha. What an awesome life!

[@RippSnortin]

Get a high top

[@SmittyAZ]

Quit screwing around and get those knees replaced.

[@jebmckenzie1688]

I was a teen during the same era you were that fell in love with a 3 speed on the column Ford van I drove during a summer job. The vehicle was a junker but I jumped at the opportunity to purchase a Chevy Astrovan when they first came out. Owned 3 of them and don't have a bad thing to say about any of them. You're correct about people evolving. I don't anticipate ever living out of a van, but my bad knees won't keep me from enjoying my limited travels in what now is a small Teardrop style camper. Hopefully you can find a way to enjoy the lifestyle again too.

[@blazerprophet]

@@SmittyAZ I did on one and the surgery failed.

[@wild13hawk]

My vision (fantasy at this point) would be to establish a chain of pseudo RV parks that would be called Skoolie Yards. They would function almost as much like a mobile home park. You could maybe buy a lot, and have a storage container there. When it's time to travel, you lock up what needs locking up, and agree with management whether your space can be used for rental while you're gone. Also, a warehouse/ workshop facility on site. But, basically, a flexible base to work from. Anybody? 🤔

[@wild13hawk]

And vanlifers TOTALLY included!

[@mytranslucentreflections8995]

That's awesome! I had just been playing with the dream of owning strategically placed pieces of land to park on for a few months each year. I was just thinking of space for me. Your idea takes that to a different level!

[@wellnative1]

Great idea! And so needed!

[@Maddiehere89]

Good idea

[@Beach_Guy]

I'd do it and have thought about this also. Need a lot of money & insurance for property you let others dwell on. Some places that can be as high as $1M. I've checked into it

[@lorengrimes5293]

I don't think that's just van life, that's LIFE. Life is change. At some point you realize that in order to be happy, you have to find a way to embrace the chaos. Also, running a small business is a lifestyle in itself, and it can be hard. Pat yourselves on the back for whatever success you've had there. Make no mistake, you guys are killing it!

[@kevzrevz447]

your spot on. i think this girl would be feel these feels regardless of her situation. what shes described in this vid is literally just life.

[@johndubchak]

I love this comment - so germane.

[@diasporareturnee]

"After a while you start to crave a permanent community." No truer words have ever been spoken. This applies to long term world travel too. Too many goodbyes to new friends. And as you age, the travel thrill fades. Traveled the world in my 20s and 30s, settled down permanently in a community in my 40s. Couldn't be happier. God bless all in their life journeys.

[@kymber.r]

I feel this. Travelled around the world from 17-34yrs old. Took a break, and now that I'm 37, I'm craving community, safety and stability.... YET.... I still have the travel bug, and the idea of staying put in one place still makes me feel "stuck".

[@Tamagumo]

​@@kymber.rhow did you guys afford to travel so much?

[@Yep6803]

As person grow up in Alps, who do it almost daily I won't do it even if I'm so close to do it... I still prefer come back hom, having my comfy life and cut in two my too big house. Yeah, my dream is buying a van and a ground but that's all... yeah I want whole my beautiful nation Italia but that's all. As person who spend 6 hours per day in a car in the Alps, it is a fashion... spending so much time alone it is a fashion. I don't need it. My culture is based on people who climb the rock alone, the Alps living in one of the coolest type of Alps... this is a fashion, if you want you don't start a Q&A and go on. I don't, I turn on the car and I do. I don't ask to go to Lake Garda and go on, I do.

[@Curtis.Carpenter]

As a man I can guarantee you that if you were to actually find such a statistic As I Am to suggest that You would see this entire video is 90% aimed at and received well by and agreed with by those in a relationship Traveling with a Female partner or Female Solo bus or van dwellers.. And that is not a insult or meant to be disrespectful at all it's just the reality of the situation As I and many others have seen it which for the most part are in fact female solo vandwellers as well as couples living on the West Coast of Canada who travel up and down the coast throughout the United States and across Canada. I have maybe 6 friends in total maybe 7 if you count one who did it temporarily while she was in college so she didn't have to pay for rent.. But there is a big big difference between a couple who has an Instagram channel and or has not financially planned nor have they understood enough about automobiles and the inevitable and or potential costs of parts and capabilities of their vehicle as well as roots that they plan to take... Every single one of those aspects can change your experienced from a absolute stressful nightmare to a blissful experience. And while I fully understand that you are not trying to give a overall image of every or even the majority of people who do this which is evident based off of the claims and statements that you have shared which are totally valid it's a little device of whether or not that is intentional or not because I have friends who have been doing this for over a decade and they are not only happy with it they Couldn't be happier and 2 of those 6 people who still live out of their vehicles are doing so out of a minivan and only 4 of those 6 peopleOne of which is 1 of them in a minivan are constantly traveling but they do so in a planned and organized manner and still have some amazing stories to tell but the biggest difference is none of these people that I'm friends with have KZbin channels or Instagram channels none of them spend even 10% or 30% of their day thinking of what to film or trying to bring an animal along in their vehicle like a cat or a dog Which is what seems to be the case with the majority of these internet couples who go on van or bust life excrusions as I like to call... Only to then make a video such as this talking about how it's not so great.. Which is fair that's totally your subjective opinion. However I would hope that the majority of people understand that your situation is and will always be nothing like the situation for anyone else unless they are living a identical lifestyle and have identical goals and understandings and purpose says for doing so that you do. Once again I will say this just in case you are skimming through I am not trying to throw shade in any manner and I actually followed you for quite a while there during your initial travels and really did enjoy your content. Which is the reason that pushed me to go out and buy myself and a very old third generation Ford economyline van and over the course of a year got the thing and rebuild it entirely by myself all the while working full-time. Afterwards I spentRoughly 6 months saving money so that I had all of my basis covered and I could assure there would always be a buffer of at least 5 or $6000 so that if something were to occur it would not get me stuck anywhere waiting for parts or having to come up with money without a full-time job or a job at all. I think it's unfortunate that this became a KZbin and Instagram Thad mostly popularized by attractive women trying to convince other young women that they need to get out there and explore and all of this phony stuff that admittedly which no one can deny a lot of the time was entirely falsified. And of course there were females and still are females out there who have been and are continuing to solo van life it and enjoying it thoroughly because they plan ahead and understand their goals. In summary I have no disrespect towards you in any way but I do find it disingenuous to make the statements that you're making without also clearly showing that and making apparent that your statements are entirely due to your life situation and the choices you made as well as the things you did not think about prior to your trip. It's unfortunate that so many people young enough to take on this type of lifestyle will be dissuaded from doing so after watching this but clearly you guys are not trying to dissuade others as you are now making money by building rigs for other people even though you just yourself admitted that it becomes tiresome after a while. And as a result simply leads me to believe that Your statements and opinion are more algorithm driven then genuine and down to Earth. And you can in fact of course take that as me being a hater or whatever you'd like to see it as but that's just my honest opinion. I do not think it is wise to take a pet of any size onto a vehicle where you are semi permanently living as well as traveling nor do I think it is remotely intelligent to try to sustain this lifestyle while at the same time not having enough mechanical understanding or education to keep your vehicle in running condition as well as do the repairs yourself within reason of course. Under even semi ideal circumstances and having those bases alone covered along with Some money in the bank for situations that are out of your hands or foresight, I believe someone in your situation although I know nothing about your relationship or true personality nor do I know the same about your boyfriend or husband I believe you would have had a drastically different experience. Once again probably for the fourth or third time I just want to make it clear that I really have enjoyed your videos and just wanted to voice my opinion as someone who has now been living on the road with a skill set that allows me to work wherever I stop, Which happens to simply be a handy man. I'm now 3 and a half years into this lifestyle and could not be happier with it. I spent years planning towards this lifestyle which included fully understanding how to repair virtually every aspect of the vehicle I was looking to purchase 1 day down the road. So even though that is not particularly what your video is about I think people need to fully understand that any kind of lifestyle is sustainable attainable and could be possible for them if they are to fully embrace it and understand and accept all of the responsibilities that come along with doing so in a manner that will allow them to actually sustain it to whatever length or degree they wish. I'm also very happy that you guys are able to help others create van and bus builds as that is always good to help others get into lifestyle. Though it does seem a little contradictory after your statements made in this videoThough it does seem a little contradictory after your statements made in this video. And it seems like Van life has become a fad and a temporary elongated vacation for younger people of the very late end of the millennial ages group and gen Z. Usually embarked on by people hoping to profit or succeed in some sort of social media endeavor accompanying the trip so that it could be sustained without having to actually do any of the things that I suggested one should so to speak have their bases covered on in order to successfully continue the and you the lifestyle to any degree or length they wish. Best of luck with your business and I hope this isn't taken the wrong way though I imagine it most certainly will be as I am not fully an agreement with everything you've said however ever I can never truly know your actual honest-to-God opinion as this is a KZbin channel and a following you carry and ever since I believe 2017 where they got rid of the ability to send private messages over KZbin there's no way for you to voice your honest opinion And have to censor yourself knowing that it will be read by thousands of other people. So I'll end this by saying no disrespect whatsoever just wanted to share my experience and opinion with those else in the comment section as well as Congratulate you on your clearly successful business building set ups for others looking to experience this life style.

[@Curtis.Carpenter]

​@@Tamagumo There are many reasons but I'm sure you can imagine.. 🧓👴->$. or They have or had jobs that were able to be completed away from the office.. Though for that length of time I would also be quite curious how such a thing would be accomplished without saving up or having a physical skill set that you could stop for a few months anywhere on Earth and used to save up some more money and continually keep yourself going as a result. Which could easily be accomplished by becoming a painter or handyman of any variety.

[@BigHugeYES]

Life is a journey, not a destination. It’s easy to look at someone else’s experience and then try to learn their hard-won answers by fast forwarding to the end conclusions, but that’s like watching only end of all the movies you’ve ever seen and skipping the middle part. I really appreciate the self-reflection and wisdom in this video. Thanks guys!

[@rustymixer2886]

It's a ride not a journey

[@UncleSilverGaming]

As an aspiring van lifer who can't start it yet but watches a LOT of videos, most of the people I watch admit that they never intended to do it forever, so I'm guessing rising costs and general stress are triggering that change. I feel like the optimal life (for me anyway) would be a seasonal campground space for half the year (some places near me do March to November) then when they close, travel for a few months, all while living in (or out of) your van. You get both the minimal van life travel experiences and the stability and comforts of being in one place for an extended period of time.

[@KelsAndJay]

That's a really smart way to do it. We know people who do it this way and absolutely love it!

[@alanhat5252]

Depending where you are in the world you might want to be static November to March

[@Arthalot]

I think there's a big difference between people who live and travel in vans and KZbin vanlifers. So many youtube folks have followed all the trends of living in a cabin during COVID or starting a tiny house build or swapping their van with a camper or whatever. The priority of a youtube vanlife person (who is inherently incentivized by money they make from youtube) is to constantly dish up fresh material, not live peacefully and happily in their comfortable van. That would just make for bad TV lol

[@dianabanana6724]

You nailed it!

[@izifaddag8221]

What a sensible post. I didn't 'aspire' to van life or a life on the road. I fell into it. I spent 12 years living and working in a semi before switching. I have been living in a converted enclosed cargo trailer for another 3 and a half years. I am quite comfortable this way because I have tried to create a house on wheels. Largely I have succeeded. There is a LOT of poverty out here. Also misfits, alcoholics and generally broken people. A great deal of people who live this way are here because of finances. Nobody can afford $2,000 a month rent in some town. Then there are all the other bills. I am retired and also follow the weather. The only way to survive on $1000 a month is by breaking out of the box. Nowadays if you try to survive normally you drown.

[@zangin]

Biggest reason people leave van life is because they need a change, and more stability and a sense of community.. or perhaps want to start having a family. As with anything, new things are great, until they aren’t. So when the time comes, find a place to call home and keep the van so you can go off on an adventure when you get the bug!

[@vanessahenry7238]

Doesn't help that people who one homes, and some city's politicians think that van lifers are going to be dirty and are homeless losers! They are not getting the land taxes and the utilities money! Doesn't help that there are people who are a mess and make it hard on those that are not!

[@junglekutz5625]

I don't think you will ever find someone that is passionately operating from their own expression and space, aim to quit something as such. It's one thing to try or believe that you will like something based on what you saw/think you saw. But when spmeone is operating from their own expression and interest, the need to quit, is foreign.

[@John-rt8cl]

@@vanessahenry7238 great point Vanessa! Agreed Taxation is theft of course it all boils down to greed!🤢😡

[@000one]

That is wisdom. Get the land you want before the van. It will only grow in value over time and supply you with one special place to hall back on. Live in your van or...till you can start your new home.

[@lolly1405]

@@vanessahenry7238 the real problem is that there are people that are living the nomad lifestyle, and they are nasty, at least some of them. Where I live, we have public lands that they used to allow anybody to roll up on and camp, and a lot of people did. It was free and perfect for that lifestyle. But then you had people that wanted to live there 24 seven and will try to actually build a little shanty towns that would have to be taken apart and the people runoff. And then you just have to people that would leave their bags of trash everywhere. Some containing human feces. So you can’t camp there now. And I’ve been in a place for people with camp for free for as long as I can remember. My husband used to go there with his family as a child. Now it’s completely blocked off and nobody gets to go. As is always the case. Some people ruin it for everybody.

[@braxxian]

My wife and I are both in our mid 50’s so we have been around the block a few times. Life is a balance. Travelling full time won’t make you any happier than never getting to travel. We make sure we go on a decent sized trip every 3 years. The rest of the time we are happy to work part time and potter about at home. To much of anything is never a good idea.

[@kevinreist7718]

Having a home base can make a huge difference. Someplace to stay, with full hookups when you get tired of travel can be a welcome R&R break.

[@johnwalton5303]

I am a trucker and I drove over the road for well over a decade. Due to my parents getting older and needing me around more I came off the road and got a local job. However living in a apartment with so much space is mind-boggling to me. While over-the-road I lived in the space that was no bigger than a queen-size bed. Half of that was a bed the rest was storage. I constantly wish I could go back out on the road maybe not as a trucker again but to just have the ability to live in a smaller space. To have the ability to basically be like a turtle and move my home to wherever I wanted to go. However still be close to home be able to be there for my parents and to still go to work. Like it'd be nice to be able to go camping on the weekends and just take my home with me. Not having to worry about if I packed the tent when my tent and everything else is my home aka van. Maybe one day I'll get back out there again. I'm very interested in the van way of life.

[@buzzikea]

a typical truck driver thoughts

[@Steingassm]

I lived without a vehicle and home for years and once I got a truck I could sleep in I just wanted to constantly be on the move. I tried lots of activities to hold back the wanderlust but I really just want to see new places. Feeling this way and knowing I need some kind of career has me pretty screwed up. Figured out OTR trucking is probably the best thing for me to do for the next 20+ years. Got my permit and I'm selling everything. Plan on staying in hotels a few times a month.

[@edenbreckhouse]

I bought the LWB Sprinter, got a puppy, ukulele and manbun and then sat back and waited for a bikini wearing yoga posting hottie to come along and share my life. It never happened and I even followed all the rules. Damn you KZbin.

[@KelsAndJay]

😂😂

[@BowmanMoran]

Maybe it was the man bun.

[@thomasupton2664]

​@@BowmanMoran beat me to it.

[@TheAbandonedAccount7]

if you like to be around people, I'd suggest not camping in the middle of nowhere and living alone in a van

[@christianmani1730]

Oops. Time for plan B.

[@kenyagough3236]

The best thing about the Van life community… is the PEOPLE you meet, keep making purposeful connections 😊

[@KelsAndJay]

100%! There's nothing else like it! Thank you

[@gwenwallace6175]

Dorit is a great story teller. Check her out on Instagram and KZbin!

[@BlackbeardKNAC]

Everyone is a wide net to cast, KZbinrs that start "van-life" tend to quit is more accurate. Fulltime nomads don't tend to quit because the lifestyle is addicting and you meet some of the best people just being out there. So many KZbinrs seem to treat this as an extended vacation for content and vacations come to an end as will their nomad experiment

[@cococock2418]

Cope. Van life is a scam

[@jackpumkinhead9583]

I 100% agree. I know many nomad lifers. It wasn’t for me i was out for 3 years but i would do it again. I like traveling for seasons not years

[@Weird.Dreams]

Big youtubers like this are mainly doing it for the youtube money.

[@JaysEndeavors]

Most are doing it for money, once they get a decent amount of views and KZbin pays them, they boo hoo and complain and go back to bricks and sticks. But once they vlog loses the subs who subbed because of van life and don't like their new content, they dip and dip in it and come up with a story why

[@carlossantiago9926]

This is refreshing. I'd like to see people with platforms like this making positive change for accepting those who choose or fall into van-dwelling. The people with positive responses to this video are missing the point. It's a bit of a missed opportunity if you ask me.

[@tumbleweed1976]

I’m 46 in 2023 and enjoy full time minivan-life. With a full time job it is an excellent way to reach early retirement. Live within your means.

[@teasdaleart1]

Throughout my 40 plus years of being a nomad on the American continent and the world at large, I tried owning a house three times and ended up selling it to go back to living on the road. Now that I am in my mid sixties, I, again, purchased a house but I have a camper on my 4x4 truck so that I can spend time traveling in the boonies of the Southwest where I live. Being a nomad can be both a lifestyle and an identity, I am a nomad by nature and figuring out how to be sedentary is challenging. Van life became a fad, and a fun one, but, like all fun things, there is an end to it. I hope that you found the next dream and are having a fabulous time living it!

[@taxicamel]

Why don't you share where the money came from throughout? .

[@teasdaleart1]

@@taxicamel Photography

[@tmusa2002]

Just seeing the effort involved to get water and go to the bathroom is enough to convince me. I’m happy for others who find it worth the struggle.

[@LiannaLovelle]

It’s effort, and a bigger event than if u lived in a house, but it’s still only a small part of the day.

[@drewopal9283]

Wait till you find out what economic crash life is like

[@drewopal9283]

@@tmusa2002 true but like what happens when all the rivers dry up like what happened in Europe and China and the Mississippi last year. In the next ten years we may look back at all of this like a fairytale when we used to have things like accessable food and water for most.

[@tmusa2002]

@@drewopal9283 If the sky is falling we all better live it up now!

[@drewopal9283]

@@tmusa2002 certainly

[@HollyTree_]

Been living the van life for a few years. When you mentioned doing the dishes, laundry, finding bins etc is hard, I felt that. These are the little things which really add up. However, life is now easier for my partner and I, as we have a studio which my partner runs his business from. In the studio, we have a kitchen, washer/dryer, fridge, office space etc. This has made things A LOT easier for us - especially doing the laundry and cooking. We now just really sleep and shower in our van, and that’s it. I guess it’s vanlife but cheating.

[@dougditches1496]

Fuck doing dishes lol I used disposeable everything. I warm up food from cans on my catalytic heater, chopped ham, canned corn in a pan with hot water an put some eggs in to cook in the shell. After about 5 min pull the eggs add idahoan instant mash potatoes and crack your slightly poached eggs onto it. Add tapatio and sour cream. Nom nom nom. I w a plastic for right rrom the pan. Wipe; t clean for tomorrow. No muss no fuss.

[@onmission316]

We’re thinking of becoming migrating nomads rather than roaming nomads. Roaming is kind of a nomad “vacation” while living in three “established” locations on a seasonal basis gives the stability of roots without stagnation and the opportunity to roam when the desire comes. Our “established” places would be: a private, free campsite on friend’s land in Maine (August/September/October), our base at home in Myrtle Beach (November/December/January), Florida (February/March/April) and free lance (May/June/July). We have friends and family in all three locations and some in between. Thanks for sharing the insights and challenges of nomadic life.

[@CarolWain]

In my ideal world, we'd do the same (sadly, I started thinking about this 20 years ao and I am slowly coming to terms with the fact that maybe this might not be possible unless we start to act... like now!). However, migrating nomads is a great term. I was thinking (still as a 30-year-old, which I'm not) that we'd take the van to Europe for the 90 days we're allowed to be there, then come back to Canada, then go back, and so on. I think it's more doable (although I did post earlier that I was thinking of a cross-Canada trip, then taking the (not yet owned, let-alone converted) van to Europe for 2 years.)

[@AdventureNomadforNature]

I'm in my 19th year, for the last 7.5 years Ive had a very small van, but prior to that I did it in a small SUV or car. I love exploring and seeing new places, and hiking new trails, seeing new geology, so this lifestyle fits my interests, and I fell into it naturally, part out of financial needs, and part out of having a strong urge to keep moving and learning. I think it's great for young people to try this, life passes by so quickly, but I think deep down the ones that stand the test of time are those that have the adventure gene DRD4-7r, or something similar. I have a KZbin Channel, Adventure Nomad for Nature, check it out, its mostly about the outdoors, and not about the van 😁

[@CIBERXGAMING]

one thing if you decide to do van life. DO NOTTT bring your house lifestyle with you or you will be disappointed over and over again. you MUST be willing to change your lifestyle and be okay with a minimal lifestyle. the only reason people quit is because they don't have all of their luxuries that a full on house has, plain and simple. you gotta remember if you have a luxurious van build then it will take a lot of work to keep it luxurious. go into van life SIMPLY and you wont regret it. if money gets tight then literally JUST stop traveling. you arent forced to travel. i suggest watching car lifers and van lifers that dont have luxurious vans and youll understand if you want to live van life or not long term.

[@ruthaspen2076]

My first van life chapter was in 1973. Life has many chapters and once you experience van life, it’s always an option, for whatever reason. Now I am a senior woman living in my 05 Ford van out of necessity but I don’t need to go go go anymore because I’ve been there done that. You are correct about the daily van chores being time consuming. I need more comfort now so use a heater and solar for my refrigerator, etc. There’s Lots of introspection here and living in the moment….grateful I found van life many years ago.

[@automnejoy5308]

If you've done it once, you feel confident that you can do it again, I guess. Vanlife is extremely intimidating for those who have never done it.

[@cococock2418]

Horrendous way to live , sounds like you’re just making excuses for being forced to like out your car

[@Bng_Rp_]

@@cococock2418 are you homeless? Is this why you have multiple negative comments about vans? Just because your poor and homeless doesn’t mean everyone living on wheels is. You live out of a car not a van with a bathroom lmaoo

[@michaelingram7844]

My 2 cents worth... Been a vanlifer for 3 years now, but our key is variety. We are lucky enough to be able to have change, where we van-life for 6months, then go O/S for the rest. We live in Australia, where we have multiple climates available and have a relaxed freedom, plus Asia is on our doorstep. So living low cost is possible. The key (in my view) is to have cheap hobbies to enable getting away from the van. We hike (just did the PCT), we backpack in asia (still in our late 50s), and we're planning a 4month bike tour in Europe where well camp 6 out of 7 days. Anyway, with planning and without the rose coloured glasses, vanlife can work long-term. Cheers!

[@jackryan2135]

Yea from what i can tell Van life is much much easier here. Would not even attempt it in the US or UK.

[@evlkarl7161]

Great Video btw we Truckers have been doing this fancy lifestyle for a long long time without the drones music social media and all the Las Vegas Glitter. 😁😁 keep up the good work.

[@KelsAndJay]

Thank you!! Haha truckers are definitely the original van lifers 😊

[@RossMcgowanMaths]

Great to hear someone being absolutely honest. Never really fancied thr nomadic lifestyle myself but I appreciate and love the diversity of my fellow humans. Great video.

[@yoooyoyooo]

It's not the van it's life. Life is a catch 22 situation where no matter what you do it proves to be dissatisfying after a while. This is completely normal. Just don't expect to have a fun life and you will be ok. Fun is optional and shouldn't be your goal, because you will inevitably fail and you will feel disappointed.

[@Purriah]

You’re good at opening up and just talking about your feelings. This is the first thing that came up when I searched “van life” and I’m glad I clicked.

[@clifjackson7305]

I want to be a vanlifer. I hate being tied to one spot.

[@Monaz1]

If you can give it a try. I'm 2 1/2 years and I'm not through yet. I love the freedom

[@KelsAndJay]

Do it!! Even with all the ups and downs we wouldnt change it for anything. We learned a lot about ourselves and grew as individuals and a couple so much

[@madmaz8890]

Easily the biggest reason I want to give it a crack, I hare feeling tied down or trapped in to normal society

[@BrianSmiley2306]

I like this video, as you honestly show both sides of the coin...I retired 3 years ago, and waited for my mom to transition to a retirement home. So I had more free time. I acquired an older van and spent 8 months renovating it. I chose a van as it's street legal to park almost anywhere. For my first time I didn't want to have major parking/storage issues with a big rig as I do not have a driveway to park it, so it has to be parked on the street. Luckily we found a small business that allows me to park it over the year, with high security too. As housing security is so important to me, I kept my low rent apartment and just do van life part time. I can get away for several days to a week and enjoy my freedom yet am close to home. I think I have the best of both worlds!!!

[@KelsAndJay]

You definitely are living the good life the way you're doing it! Sounds like a blast and we are jealous 😂

[@jaggedtoothX]

So, so true. I think the hardest part about van life are the countless amber alerts that get called on you, just for parking in front of an elementary school and trying to sell old candy.

[@edwardgeezil3318]

I’m 55 years old I’ve been living in my Dodge Caravan for two years. I’ve actually been doing it to save money and rent it out my condominium. I love it.

[@ToConnect2000s]

Before covid it was $220 to fill my diesel tank now it's $540 per fill up..

[@KelsAndJay]

That hurts!!!

[@bobsmithers]

Ouch...parked longer times?

[@jeremytorgersen]

Great video! As someone who has been watching vanlife/nomad/tinyhouse/homesteading videos for years as I prepare for my semi-nomadic journey I figure I'll likely never be a full timer any given year. That said, I plan to start this upcoming year while I rent out my house in search of land for a small home base to go back to. To me, that is the best balance for me. Part-time cabin in the woods, part-time SUVlife traveling around the country. I'll be starting mid-life at 39, but better late than never!

[@ericd1084]

I'm looking to get into Van life, but I also want to keep a home base. Part-time van life. Thats the way to do it.

[@procta2343]

yeah, best of both worlds

[@Alkamatus]

9/10 of the people who quit car life started it for social media or other wrong reasons.

[@christiano9819]

Love the way your vid ended w/ its positive message! Honestly, life is going to be hard regardless. You have to choose your hard though. And ultimately, I do think you guys made the right choice to travel and experience life. I'm sure you will sporadically come back to it and then to your roots as need be.

[@darcibeckford6848]

This was refreshing. It is the most positive video I've watched addressing the common trends you've seen and why many people eventually leave. It does this while still painting nomadic life as a positive life-changing experience. While there are certainly people who are wired differently and have thrived in their chosen van life long term (and aren't likely to leave for a long time), I do agree that they are a smaller number of people and I think they are a wonderful unique breed. There is nothing wrong with making changes as your needs in life change and new dreams start becoming more important. I think allowing yourself to chase new dreams is also a kind of freedom.

[@KelsAndJay]

Such a great point! Thanks for the kind words Darci!

[@haulinacrossna]

Van life isn't so bad. As a trucker I'm on the road 9+ months of the year. Now that I've split with my spouse I'll be living in my rig full time, but I've been researching van life. Really love the idea, more freedom than a semi, which is what brought me to this video. The life's not for everyone, that's for sure. What you've listed as exhausting chores (laundry, etc) I consider a way of life. The difference between those people that love the fantasy of it and give it up, and those that live it, it's in your blood. Either you can stomach it, or you can't. And at least you have a home to come back to. Keep the shiny side up.

[@leecrump1921]

I love vanlife ❤❤

[@ericlarousse1149]

What's in your blood?

[@mcfrench]

@@ericlarousse1149 the diesel and the love for the open highway. Most people quit because they can't handle it, much like with van life, but those that tough it out can no longer leave because they get addicted to it

[@A.I.-]

Have a guess why there are rarely 90yo people proclaiming the joys of a van life and living the dream? 1) most wouldn't make it to 90yo in a van life. 2) most who do make it to 90yo would have quit the van life because its just not practical when you're older. 3) those old enough still living the van life don't have the finances to leave that life.

[@RuinVystopia]

Shiny side up, driver. 👍

[@PHILIPPEADELINA]

This was so interesting to watch! We live in a van full-time for almost 2 years now. We travelled trough Europe for 1.5 years and recently are back in our home country Switzerland (still living in a van). I think people don't realize that our brain needs time to digest all the impressions from traveling, specially if you had a lot of break downs and challenges. Overall I have to say I never felt more free and at ease in my life, I'm sure it's not only the van who is responsible for that but also a lot of other factors. Anyway :) I really enjoyed watching the video. Take care

[@Defilement_the_clown]

This was pretty damn accurate. I’m a full timer. Constantly building and rebuilding it’s all part of the fun,I do have a home base & living in driveway of my own house .Been full time for well over 5 years and it is a forever thing. Traveling is life, A 9 to 5 is not. Finding that perfect balance between the both is a juggling act but worth every adventure.

[@donjuan3296]

The only ones giving up are the ones that already profited enoough through social network and now want to live confy

[@taxicamel]

Oh, you are quick to summarize the "profit" part. I think quite the opposite. There isn't the audience or interest to support KZbin publishers. HOWEVER, every year, there is a new batch of "explorers" .....the people who aren't interested in education .....and this is an easy out with a very cheap worn out, hand-me-down van ready to go on the road for their "first adventure". And when it's over .....typically when the money's run out ......then what? .

[@NoteFromSELF]

@@taxicamel Many KZbinrs do very well.

[@TinyHouseGiantJourney]

Very truthful video, and I def can relate. My time traveling in my Tiny House was just over one year. Then I needed community. And then I wanted to travel again!

[@ottouring]

Hi, Just read your comment and thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like, share and subscribe Cheers Out There Touring

[@Bigzthelove]

It’s a cycle

[@haiz768]

You white folks are crazy for choosing to live in a van😂😂

[@haiz768]

You white folks are crazy for choosing to live in a van😂😂

[@ottouring]

@@haiz768 That’s why I choose to travel in roof top tent and then return to my home. Cheers Out There Touring

[@DrRichardDolphin]

I have really looked at not just whats affordable, or physically do-able, but from the angle of "what do I really need to happily, and efficiently sustain myself comfortably for the foreseeable future?" I ended up with a 25 foot travel trailer. There are just too many lifestyle sacrifices for me to realistically entertain van life as a viable long term travel solution. Even something as simple as, I can put my heart and soul into the trailer, and go through an infinite number of tow vehicles without having to let go of all the work I did on my home.

[@iaintgonlie7858]

I definitely think the size matters and planning ahead is wise. I think a ford eccoline f150 is a solid size if you want to be discreet as possible and have space. You might need a camper if you want to plant roots in a big deserted spot. You can go in pretty much any parking lot and people wouldn't think twice. My confusion lies with if they are working jobs still or what because food aint free unless they have a garden and hunt.

[@noconomads]

We're 4 years on the road and there are defiantly breaks and struggles that need to happen before you determine if this life is right for you. Great video!

[@Constellasian]

I don't understand why there was a rather large level of hate for this video. You two gave your reasons for quitting van life. That's pretty much it. I didn't find anything condescending or snobby in this video like what some were saying. Some people change plans because life changed them. Everyone's situation can vary.

[@PSAdventures]

It does seem like in the last couple years more people have given up van life for all the reasons you describe. We've had our van almost a year now but we actually did it in reverse! We laid down roots with a home base, got the van, and have been easing into it while still working our full-time jobs. It's hard on that side as well trying to balance two worlds. Loved the storytelling in this episode! 💓

[@bigluisjayrogan]

Because their parents can't keep paying for their "van life"

[@haiz768]

You white folks are crazy for choosing to live in a van😂😂

[@LOVEBABY138]

Im glad you share these. On the Internet, we see only that what could be perfect. But to see how you came out stronger and stronger after the many breaking points that occurred during your bus life is really amazing. Its not the quit, its the growth.

[@KelsAndJay]

Thank you💛💛

[@doritann]

hello my name is Dorit and I identify as a phase 5 buslifer! THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS. Its so hard to plant roots after being nomadic for so long. At least for me I'm seen as a ghost to landlords and the like. no rental history or serious employment history. it hard to break out of the nomadic life and make those roots. I need monies to have a place of my own but the only way I could do that would be to sell my bus but then I wouldnt have a home. its a terrible cycle. SHEESH. Anyways, thanks for the video. makes me feel like im not just this crazy person alone out here having second thoughts

[@KelsAndJay]

Haha yess, you go dorit!! Such a good point! We had so much trouble getting financing for our first van for that exact reason. I can't even imagine how tough buying a house will be. We'll probably have to find someone society deems as responsible to co-sign with us. Best of luck as you navigate, but know you aren't alone, and are definitely not crazy!!💛

[@Arvanlife]

That would be my fear with full time van life. Keep at it. I'm sure you can establish roots. Maybe the rent a warehouse or shop space idea if you could park in it?

[@chrishall7915]

I used to travel a lot and stopped when I realised how it was only made possible by people who didn't live that way. (I may still need a doctor or a hospital for example; I still use a bank to hold money, etc, etc). It flipped from feeling like an austere lifestyle to feeling self-indulgent. I think there comes a time when you have to step back and make it possible for the next generation.

[@jackpumkinhead9583]

That’s a silly take

[@dontbeadogsbody3564]

How does you living in a manner that suits you, detract from other’s lives? Being free is our birthright, but the parasites have convinced us we are slaves, incarnating to serve them. Nope. Not true.

[@CarolineJoyAmico]

Wow. That’s a very wise way to look at it, and unselfish.

[@CoveringFish]

@@jackpumkinhead9583no it’s not it’s realizing the privilege you have over others and the reliance

[@Cobalt985]

But a lot of other people don't _want_ to live that way. The way our society is structured, you do things to earn money to pay for other people's time and energy. I don't see anything wrong with using that exchange of effort to live in a way that you genuinely like, unless you're doing it with your parents money or something. I mean, if you're working to earn a wage, you're not doing anything wrong by spending it to live a slightly different way than others.

[@massari4u]

Purpose, no one ever mentioned that in their videos. You are the only ones who did it and I respect you guys so much. It makes so much sense.

[@longzero]

In the category of “Vanlife sucks”, “Don't do vanlife”, “Things people don't show you about vanlife”, etc, this video is the best I've seen on that topic.

[@KelsAndJay]

Haha we feel honored. Thank you!

[@euleesmom2671]

Agree

[@wonderingwildling2598]

I’ve been in my dodge caravan for 3 years now, At first it was my only option after Covid hit, but I’ve grew to love and accept it over time, and then hate it…lol it’s a cycle, it’s a great way to save money and see the world at the same time if your okay with slowing working on an overall goal, I definitely crave stability and a piece of land to build on but it’s an urge just like when you quit smoking cigarettes, in my situation, like allot of others, I’m just holding out, saving up, and waiting for the next wave 🌊

[@rhemmie2825]

I think having a place to come back to and take a break, reset, readjust is needed. Especially when you are living in something as small as a van. I'm hoping your business does well and you get back out traveling. But at a more relaxed pace with a place to come home and reset. Awww, the photo of all the rigs set up. So much changed now.

[@KelsAndJay]

Thanks Debra, we hope so too! Thanks for being here from early one, we appreciate you and always adore your comments ❤️

[@rhemmie2825]

@@KelsAndJay Awww geez. Now I'm blushing. 😊

[@austinrentz7825]

I appreciate the honesty and vulnerability! Also, I’m sad because my wife and I want to go full time van life 😢

[@tempestindustries9446]

I've always been in my home town and being 20 never leaving the west coast it's infuriating me. So many people talk about vegas trips or traveling the world and i sit there with nothing but being stuck inside. I really wanna get my drivers license and get myself a truck since currently im getting 4 days off in a row working 12 hours 3 days a week which honestly is perfect for me! I could drive to different beaches and places even 1 or 2 states out easily and make sure im back home for work on the weekends. I want to see the world and meet people!!! Awesome video! Good luck with the van building business

[@jebmckenzie1688]

Clever video. Dead on point when it comes to what someone should expect when they look to the Van Life lifestyle. I've been a van owner (on and off) for years that loves sleeping in a van when I travel, but I can't see myself going through the hassles involved in constantly moving from place-to-place on a daily basis. Three days to a week is enough of a getaway for me

[@karennadeau8251]

The fun and the struggle of van life took me light years ahead of where I would be today mentally. I'm so strong and less fearful. I'm now in stage 5. Building the van to travel, but my home is a refuge. ❤️ I love it.

[@u2canmakeadifference603]

Thank you for an honest look at Van life. I think the phases that pointed out are very important to keep in mind. Also, it really helps when you hit those transitional moments, knowing that you’re not the only one who has had those feelings. Thanks again, and best of luck with the van building business.

[@ltbrutusq6202]

Apart from an 8" survivor knife, stun gun, mace, and machete, I added a Bruni New Police 9mm Pak blank pistol (very loud) and a .50 cal Umarex TR50 Paintball Revolver paintball airgun to my RV/ camping arsenal. Both are non-lethal and under $100. I also added on each side of the RV solar motion sensor LED lights and have an intruder alert. Remember even if you do not have a gun you can bluff "Go away I am armed with a gun.".Also, buy some M80 firecrackers when you hear weird noises or footsteps outside your RV light one up, and throw it out the window after the big bang you will scare most critters away.

[@tylerreaves2840]

The grass is always greener. The highs and the lows are part of life, but the amplified intensity of both make it interesting. It's all beautiful. Thanks for sharing your story.

[@theweddingpirates]

Yup😂 100 times yup. We just finished our 5th year in a 20ft short bus, but when we moved into the bus we said we’d do it for 5 years so I’d say that’s an accomplishment. The point is that you did it, you succeeded, and now it’s the next chapter of your life☺️ You’ve gotten so much knowledge and wisdom from this experience and you have that lifestyle to thank for it🖤 Venture Onward🏴‍☠️

[@hfortenberry]

Yeah, Ive traveled a lot, mostly in my youth (I’m 54) and still deeply crave it. My plan is to build out my van so that it’s extremely catered to my needs so things are as easy as possible (e.g. large water tank so fewer fill-ups, more time boondocking than driving, building in a proper workstation so I can comfortably work on my passion project/businesses while on the road, etc.). I will keep my home (which is almost paid off) so I always have a home base, and plan to only travel several months (rather than years) at a time. Then I’ll come back home for a few months, see friends and family, work in the garden, do some canning, do home projects, etc and then get back on the road. I plan to alternate this way for the remainder of my life. I could not do the van life without knowing I had a home base to retire when needed. That community and stability is so important.

[@Sonny1989]

I hope you get what u want

[@dawngrey259]

This was good timing as I have been seeing a lot of changes in the community, for different reasons I am sure, and has left me wondering why this is happening. Thanks for making it so clear Kels.

[@EnglishPodcastwithPaul]

We have been in and out of Vans and living in Spain and Asia, this is EXACTLY how we have been. Concise, honest and sincere. Thank you for sharing.😂

[@thinkplanetearth2946]

Really appreciate the honesty in this video. I've noticed that a number of nomads that I follow, after a few years on the road seem to look for some sort of more permanent home. But it does seem to be a 'catch-22' because as you pointed out the itch for travel doesn't go away either. So I guess the trick is to have the funds to be able to do both. I hope you guys are able to accomplish this for yourselves.

[@automnejoy5308]

Someone should make a video about social media vanlifers vs normal vanlifers who never put themselves online. Which last longer? I think if you're making your living with vanlife videos, it would be pretty intimidating to stop. I often wonder how many of these vanlifers are pushing themselves even though they don't want the lifestyle anymore, simply because they are making money. That's why they have to transition their channel to doing something else. They have to farm some land and/or build a home, and make the channel all about that. But do they really want to do that, either, or are they just desperate to have something to film? Are their lives just entirely artificial, dictated by what they think will sell to a youtube audience?

[@CarolWain]

As a full-time RVers (40 ft 5th wheel that hasn't gone very far in the 7 years we've owned it - perhaps one trip every 2 years) I can relate to your story. Everyday things you take for granted while living in a bricks and sticks home can become HUGE when living tiny in a home on wheels. For example, we have to move at the end of next month because our campground closes for 2 weeks. Then we don't know if we'll get back in for the summer as it's so popular there is a draw system. Since we both work close to where we're parked, if we don't find a place to park, we're screwed (but that's just us). We've also experienced one leak in our bedroom slide that took almost an entire summer (given that we work the typical 9-5) to fix while we were living in it. We discovered last week that we have a leak in our living room slider too (that's going to be even worse to resolve since it's twice the size, and you can't really fix it in the winter) and it's not like we can just move the living room into the bedroom like we did when we put our mattress on the floor of the living room.) I know I sound like I'm whining but as you've said, it's not all rainbows and lollipops. Also, after realizing how stressful it is for hubby to drive (we're 57 ft long tip to tip from the truck's front bumper to the rig's back bumper) constantly, and the cost of fuel, we've realized we can't travel North America in our condo on wheels. As you've stated so eloquently, the inherent need to travel and explore is within us though, so we're looking at tackling our own van conversion. Our goal is initially to go skiing in the winter and take our boat to different weekend camping spots in the summer. Then, the next step is to go across Canada and ship the van to Europe for a year or two of van life. We're getting close to retirement age, so we're not the demographics of the typical van lifers we see on KZbin, but we're explorers and we want to explore while we still can. Thanks for sharing your honest experiences :)

[@ras9875]

There's no such thing as van life. There's only life.

[@williamharder2905]

It's like younger people and the way they approach relationships. They quit when it gets hard!

[@quarkkinoanimals5444]

What if you go backwards? Plant good roots, get stuff together and then go on long trips with the van. Sounds way better. Doing it right now. Thanks for sharing.

[@jeanieolahful]

I’d love to have a camper van, but I can’t imagine doing that much time with another person in such close contact. I’d lose my mind.

[@212caboose]

Fuel is expensive, and they're soft. Every reason those people listed is first world problems. Home bases are a good idea.

[@SBakall2]

People grow up, life steps in, bills need to be paid and more. Living a nomadic lifestyle is a lot of work and like everything else that requires a lot of work and effort, you really have to WANT it. If you have a successful KZbin channel that focuses on your nomadic lifestyle and it's able to sustain you, that takes care of one problem.. but if you're just getting by it's a lot harder. And, as you get older, different things become important, like stability.. good luck to you!

[@tw364]

This is what's funny to me, these people are in the prime of their working life. WTF are they doing in a van down by the river? I can understand doing it for a summer or right after college, but what I see is a generation that wants the benefits of retiring (living on the road) without paying their dues. I live overseas and run into the digital nomad types, some are are actually making things happen, most are not and being taken care of by Mom and Dad well into their 30's. Another way to look at this is, when you're older and want to retire to what? You lived life in reverse.

[@marvindockery-lo9cw]

I camped in buses and trucks for over twenty five years, then camped in Philippines for four years. Now back in america for a while in a truck camper. Some can live simple and cheap, some never learn how to make it work. The trick is to learn to make some money using the internet. I am almost 82 now,. No plans to quit the simple life.

[@untethered_gypsy]

I've been a full time RVer since 2007. Have no intention of stopping.

[@SleepinAroundVanlife]

Only the weak are giving up. VANLIFE is bigger today than it has ever been. Its not a lifestyle for everyone but those who keep on, enjoy it immensely!

[@Beach_Guy]

Agree 💯

[@CanadianCampPurr]

Agreed, i turn 64 tomorrow still working, hopefully will have the majority of my topper build ready by end of 2025 than off into an unexplored galaxy...lol

[@js7un165]

Do you have to make money while doing it? Are you doing that successfully? How should these people make money?

[@junkyardprints9713]

Luckily I've lived in 18 wheelers for years with my ex husband and current husband. So I think I'll be fine in a van 🤣

[@junkyardprints9713]

@@js7un165 seasonal jobs are great for nomads. There are options.

[@teoweihan]

Hey Kel & Jay, an amazing and heart touching story. I'm in phase 0 where I have yet to start my van life and am planning to start one soon. Firstly I wish you both the very best your new phase and your business. Secondly, could you share where are your go to places to connect with the nomadic communities?

[@thomasupton2664]

Apparently not

[@rickyrox341]

I've been out 7 years and I LOVE my life. I can't see doing anything different. My first years I did all that traveling around. I did something different that I don't see many Rvers and vanlifers doing. I determined it was all that constant moving around, setting up and tearing down. I am on a strict budget so what I do, is I find parts of the country that have low-cost places to stay longer... State & County, Corps of Engineers Parks are the bomb during winter. Summers I do a bit of mooch-docking. And in those 7 years I've seen half the country.

[@Dannny_Mac]

You feel like a bum? Hello you nailed it! Responsibility is part of life. You can’t escape it so embrace it. Grow and thrive. No one escapes responsibility. The better your income the better off you be at taking care of your responsibilities. The key is not where or what you live in , it’s making a really good living doing something you love. I wish ya all the best 🙏❤️

[@DaBinChe]

The way to live "van life" long term is to have a home base where you live part time in both the house and van life. But also slow down a bit...many van lifers are hitting it like it was their last days jumping around place to place too quickly "seeing" everything in one go.

[@Monaz1]

I know everyone isn't like me, but after 2 1/2 years of living the van life, solo because I wanted to. I did not have to. I still Love it. And a lot of people I know would not. It's not for everybody. I've learned a lot about me. And I will continue until I don't want to anymore. My van is broke right now, but when I get going again. I will go.

[@KelsAndJay]

That makes me so happy to hear Mona! There are definitely people out there like you, and we've met them. I love that you're choosing to do what you love as long as it continues to make you happy 😊

[@TheDawnofVanlife]

I think when people turn Vanlife into their job it’s more likely to lead to a faster burnout. Because you need to be doing things worthy of content. It’s easier to slow down and just enjoy the experience when you have that time to stop and slow down and there isn’t some risk to a content lag if you do.

[@PA1RofRaggedClause]

I’ve never lived in a van, but I have lived abroad. I feel that phase 6 is the same. I absolutely miss living abroad. I often feel very depressed about it. I think I started to identify with being an expat, and so now I feel part of my identity has been stripped away. I can see that being part of getting out of van life, too.

[@debbiegodwin9711]

LOVE YOUR TIPS. I AM 65 AND WANTING TO LIVE ON THE ROAD. TRAVEL AT TIMES...A SMALL DRIVE AT A TIME. I AM A LONER AND HAVE A HOBBY TO KEEP ME BUSY. NO DESIRE TO PUT ROOTS DOWN AT THIS POINT.

[@dennisandrews8485]

When you're young you want to go everywhere, and experience everything, but the older you get you dont want the drama that will happen in van life.

[@nameless-yd6ko]

The older you get, the less need for drama of any kind, other than as entertainment! ;)

[@denisecatlett7203]

Having a camper van is just a tool to get you where you want to go in relative comfort. If you make it your identity that will always be a problem. We are multi faceted humans and have diverse needs at different time. I enjoy my Van because feel it is a satellite home.

[@singularity_josh8063]

I'm thinking about getting into this style of life, but really just because I'm feeling frustrated and just want to explore and get away from the things that frustrate me. I feel like I should do it to know myself more.

[@KelsAndJay]

Do it! You'll learn a lot about yourself and will have amazing moments. Just want people to be prepared for the good and bad that comes with the lifestyle

[@singularity_josh8063]

@@KelsAndJay Thank you for the advice about it all in the video and being practical about it. Well, I'm making it a goal to stuck to try this style out somewhat during the summer.

[@ladytrader688]

I think you did a good job describing the different psychological phases. I hung up my keys after about 6 years of travel and living off-grid in Slab City. At that time there were not as many young people and the older crowd was satisfied playing cards every day. I felt like I still had more to do before "retiring". I also wanted to grow food and living in Slab City (the desert) it was really difficult. I bought some cheap land in Show Low area, but didn't connect with anyone there. And it was nearly impossible to grow in lava rock...plus a lot of physical work building a fence, etc...but still, it was magical at times. Then I moved back to Tahoe area which was a fun time in my 20's, but it is way out of my budget. I found an RV park in the Carson City area and I have beautiful gardens every summer. But it is winter and it is cold. I have not really connected with anyone here either. I have good aquantences, but not best buddies. My 2 best buddies died in the last 2 years, (my dogs), covid has made me afraid to get out and explore, Well not really afraid of Covid, but afraid of how angry people have become. Inflation is possibly melting into a recession next year. I have a 4x4 truck, but I know I won't feel comfortable traveling in that. I want a Van but I know that is a big expense to get in to...so I am in hover mode. It is the design element that I enjoy, but I am learning that I am more physically weak to realistically do this myself. I crave getting out again, but I also know the loneliness involved. I know about breakdowns and being stranded with no home, esp with animals, that is a real challenge. When all is said and done, I will most likely go out again, if for no other reason than to try to find that community I can connect to. Taking my time to decide how to work this all out. The Universe will present a plan to me. I am waiting...and listening.

[@roscmon]

I think my recent considerations to move into my van and travel are motivated by an urge to find people i connect with. Normally when I've thought about van life, i know how much i hate driving all the time and how I'd hate always having to find a place to park. And, i would rather choose to have a piece of property away from society to grow food. So i now have property away from society but I'm pretty sure I'll have to get some trees taken out in order to get enough sun to grow food. I don't have money for that. So that's why i thought about selling the property and hitting the road. Maybe find my tribe and then a couple of us can go in together on some land. But i feel like it's risky to sell something that feels stable, a stable place to be, no knocks on the window, private, etc. But... I feel like I'm stagnant. So i dunno what the answer is. I'm retired and would think about taking trips BUT I'm not getting much ss... and without have money from selling my property, i wouldn't have savings in case the van broke down. So... In limbo.

[@Comm0ut]

You have a truck so why not a trailer? I would never live in a vehicle with a drivetrain BECAUSE I'm an experienced mechanic. If your prime mover breaks or needs maintenance you can live in your trailer at a campsite etc and get around on a bike, scooter or small motorcycle. Box trailers are anonymous (choose white for comfort) and easy to work with. I prefer dual axle trailers as they're easier to use and if you lose up to two tires you can still limp in slowly.

[@harlandeke]

This is a lifestyle meant for the young that haven't started a real life yet, or the older that have already lived it and now have the resources and time, and a home-based that is paid for. You can then have both...wings and roots....but that takes work and commitment...real effort.

[@AceGibson1959]

A really great friend of mine was in a touring rock n roll band for most of the 80's. Being on the road for 10 months out of the year is all fine and dandy when you are in your 20's. Getting to your 30's it starts becoming a grind. These days, there isn't enough money in the world for my friend to get back on a bus and tour for months out of the year.

[@MrDaveo98]

I absolutely LOVE my 77 Chevy van. But I'm not stupid enough to begin to think I could live in it full time. I'll just live in my house, thank you.

[@ephemeratea]

Four years of vanlife. I loved it, but between that and working nights, my health was taking a beating. Welcome to middle age!

[@velmano9191]

One thing I learned about vanlife, buslife...whateverlife, is that it's hard to be an adult and a teenager at the same time and be succesful at it. The former requires you to be independant while the later does not. I feel these people, along with others who live these type of lifestyles NOT out of necessity but for fun, are NOT ready for adulthood. They secretly wish time stood still when they were younger and didn't worry about food on the table, clothes on their backs, roof over their head because someone else provided it for them. They were more about enjoyment and adventure...the carefree life. But time moves on and teenagers become adults...and sadly, not all adults are ready for adulting. I see this type of lifestyle...vanlife, buslife etc as adults not ready to be adults. Planting roots means having a stable job, saving money, forgoing fun and doing what needs to be done to survive or thrive. It means planning for the future, while putting words to action in the present. It's about creating, building and later, looking back and enjoying what you have built. Not just you or your partner but with your kids as well. It's adulting...sadly, not everyone is cut out to be an adult, even if they techincally are one.

[@rickwrites2612]

There are successful business owners who nomad. Artisans or sellers who sell at Renn faire s and craft fairs around the country most of the year, in nomad communities, winter at hot springs campgrounds or family home, and also doing work orders off laptop. Many intentionally raise families this way. Furthermore, nomadic communities are what is natural to human beings. For 150,000 years, anatomically modern humans lived in small egalitarian bands of hunter gatherers. Agriculture and its subsequent ideas of land ownership, work, hierarchy, inheritance, slavery, caste, control of womens sexuality, etc is very new and artificial to humanity, only about 12,000 yrs or so.

[@TheAbandonedAccount7]

LOL

[@elmergarcia5222]

I agree 100%. Van life is overhyped.

[@DUNKIN_DEAN]

A refreshingly honest video from someone who’s “lived the life”. There are pros and cons to everything; thank you for showing a side of the nomadic life that’s not often discussed!

[@rwdchannel2901]

Van life looked interesting to me back in 2017 and I was seriously considering it seeing I'm a disabled veteran and it would have been better for my health to live in a van than continue working at my toxic security guard job, but after the 2020 pandemic I was thankful I didn't go through with it because apart of my plan would have been to use the gym to shower and all the gyms got shut down. I like to shower 2 times per day so that wouldn't have been possible unless I was using some outdoors type shower. I live in southern California and all the lakes and state parks that had showers shut them down too.

[@janarkolemees]

I'm shocked by the simple honesty of this video. Keep it real!

[@Andy-Mesa]

It's hard. The crippling loneliness (especially if you're solo), being a slave to the weather, feeling like the scourge of society, and just absolutely everything is harder. I had an amazing experience living the lifestyle, but I don't know if all the lows were worth it.

[@arbjful]

The way you put is quite true, but also very sad…

[@hikingwiththeshackletons]

Everyone’s circumstances are different, we for example are outdoor enthusiasts, we have a touring caravan which we use for holidays. We are hikers and wild campers too. We want to embark on van life full time in a few years, but it’s different for us, we have two teenage daughters and are waiting for them to leave school in 2025, so we have plenty of time to prepare and build finances, so with us being older and done the ‘parenting’ thing, we want to begin to get our life back. We have been married for 15 years so are very happy with each other and have a great relationship. This is something we want to do, spend the remainder of our life outdoors. We will arrange failsafes such as keeping our touring caravan so we have a base to come back to & keep our furniture in storage. Thank you for the insight guys ❤