THIS IS HOW MUCH OUR VAN COST | Bus vs Van Cost Breakdown

[@JimmyandNatalie]

For 50% off with HelloFresh PLUS free shipping on your first box, use code JIMMYANDNATALIE50 at bit.ly/3zaHOe7! 🍃🍃

[@tedwalford7615]

You advertised that SO well! 😊

[@sonyagrantz9443]

Hey guys 🙂 Absolutely LUUUV y'all (from one South Carolinian to another 😉) I enjoyed your recommendation and gave it a try fyi the HelloFresh code seems to have expired.🤷‍♀

[@stevennoel9841]

I was behind a promaster at costco gas tonight and thought to myself, If Jimmy or Nat step out to fuel up, I am paying for their fuel. I felt it was the least I could do for the many hours of entertainment I have received. Keep it up.

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Aww that is so sweet! 😊 We would have truly appreciated it! 💚 So glad the videos and journey have brought you some entertainment! We enjoying making them so much!

[@theperpetualadventuremachi4571]

Well done. Awesome of you guys to be so transparent! It will definitely help those trying to begin a life on the road.

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thanks! 💚 We hope someone finds it helpful! 😄

[@ErnestPerez-rg2uo]

Jim and Natalie, congratulations on your van build. It may sound expensive to you but you have saved thousands of dollars. Vans are costing $80,000 to $120,000 for the type of traveling purposes you all enjoy. We all love your videos. We wish you to see the priceless sights and memories many of us may never experience in person. Carpe diem “Seize the day.”

[@hapnewsom9217]

I found this to be a VERY interesting video! Seeing the breakdown of costs (excluding your time and labor) for both vehicles shows a lot of growth between saguaro and pancake! I would be interested in seeing more as well....what does a typical month on the road cost you...how do you get your bills and mail (if any) and how do you do your banking from all over the country?

[@DawnykaH]

Thank you for sharing the cost breakdown for both builds, esp your van. Most people that have shared this info was pre-pandemic when everything was so much cheaper. Its nice to see what it would cost now. Would love to hear more financial data like your income streams and the cost to live on the road. Thanks for your transparency and sharing all of this info! Safe travels! 💛💛

[@PaulBauck]

You two are amazing! I am well past my traveling years, but love going with you vicariously. I've enjoyed the builds as much as the travel and appreciate the details you share! Keep those smiles and let the wheels keep rolling!

[@JimmyandNatalie]

We’re happy to have you along for the journey! Thanks so much Paul!! 💚😊

[@banditone7896]

I find all of this info fascinating. It's always awkward to ask someone how much they spent. I think it's great that you guys are willing to share including the parts that were sponsored. That is important to know. I am always curious about sources of income in this lifestyle, but again, that's a personal thing and I appreciate anything you are willing to share.

[@whalehunter31]

The reason I and I think most people watch your channel is because you’re both so likable. So videos like this are fine, as well as the travel vids of course. Me personally, I like seeing day to day van life stuff. Just you two hanging out, going grocery shopping etc…but I understand some people might find that boring. Anyway, thanks for the videos.

[@nealjohnson1461]

I have not read all the comments so this might have been mentioned already but I think one big reason your van build was financially successful is due to both of your’s craftsmanship and knowledge of this type of build. I was especially impressed with your woodworking abilities. $55k for a great van is awesome and it’s every bit as good as a Winnebago and certainly better than some other B vans built in a factory

[@IvyRosethebus]

I love it when people speak openly and honestly about money. How else can people Learn? Thank you!

[@corysvanlife]

I am extremely grateful for you guys!! I have no doubt that your videos helped me save some money on my build!! Thanks so much for sharing all this!! It is so cool seeing this side of the build!!

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thanks Cory!! 💚 We're glad you liked it, and have found our videos helpful! 😄

[@donnawarmouth9329]

You two are just the sweetest. I’m sure nobody thinks negatively about you all wanting to share and help people out. Keep being you sweet selves!!!

[@npranger317]

The video is really good. Your transparency will help many in the thought process of Van life. You guys are also an inspiration. You did this without debt, that in my opinion is priceless.

[@meowzic]

I'd love to see more about monthly budgets and how much it takes to afford your lifestyle, that would be very useful information for many.

[@williamslyer318]

Jimmy and Natalie; You both did an amazing job on both vehicles and your current van "Pancake " looks like a perfect fit for your plans. Enjoy your life together, I have watched a lot of your videos enjoyable

[@mikemanjo2458]

Thank y'all for being so candid about the budget/builds of both vehicles. We have dicussed/dreamed about doing this and only had our own guesses about what it would be. Thanks for the tips on what to look for (i.e. the plumbing) which would not have occurred to me. I love y'all so much. You are so talented and skilled. You can just do anythin/everything. Thanks again for helping others. Much love from SC, Jane❤🙏

[@Robert-ex2qp]

That was great! Glad you made money on the bus I was worried. That is a big price for Pancake but if it is all you want, reliable, and Natalie can drive it its a big win. I like hearing about costs and budgets, some youtubers don't tell you and they are spending like crazy takes away from the adventure. So a traveling budget once and awhile would be helpful like gas, maintenance and park pass's. Thanks for sharing!

[@65Taurus]

Wish I could give you ten thumbs up in appreciation for your transparency and your level of cost detail. Well done!

[@BretSnyder]

Impressive!! Very nice that you were both disciplined to keep track of every item purchased. This will be very helpful for others in their planning.

[@michaeldelaney9763]

You two have No Idea how much this video helps the wife and I. Thanks so very much for sharing this infor, and by the way love all your videos .

[@JimmyandNatalie]

That makes us very happy to know!! 💚 I’m glad y’all found it helpful!

[@rockercover]

The biggest surprise was the van cost at 42-k. Those bare / base vans are expensive. Ouch 💵 ! Second surprise was the bus sale price. 👍 The time / care you both put into the bus and van is impressive.

[@chrislaplante5040]

It's absurd. I have a converted '06 Sprinter and it came with the original invoice. I could sell it today for more than the original cost.

[@hellomark1]

Ever since the pandemic vehicle prices - even used vehicles - are just ridiculous. Vehicle makers assumed people would stop buying them, so they ramped things down (plus hard to get workers in during lockdown) but demand went the opposite way, people at home wanted to get out more. Then when they started back up all the supply chain issues hit. It's going to take years to calm down.

[@janemather6228]

I'm not in the market for a van right now, but who knows what the future may bring! I still found it very interesting though and very good helpful info. You both have gone from strength to strength,can see such a difference,you are very much true van lifers. Well done 😊

[@CraftsandMorewithDonnaJackson]

Omg it was so awesome meeting you two in person. Ya'll are the sweetest. Natalie, Kathy was so sorry she didn't get to see you. Ty for this video. It's extremely helpful to me as I'm searching for a new rig. It's hard to find anything. I've found several mini busses and a transit but the prices are through the roof. With only SS and my pt job, saving is hard. I'm pretty sure I'll have a payment. Although, I'd love to be like you guys and be debt free. I'd love to see more videos like this. Thanks again and happy travels!!

[@travelingwhilebutch]

I always enjoy these videos that go into the details and wish more people would be transparent about costs and how they finance their journeys on the road. I think it would give people a lot of different ideas on how to make life on the road a reality. Thank you for sharing!

[@paulutd69]

Wow that's awesome. Even starting your own website! The information and the way you're presenting it will most assuredly help others out there in the community that are in the process of or are planning a van build. I have watched many different people on KZbin living this lifestyle. If you consider the cost of housing in the developed world today it's no wonder people young and old are living in this way. The added bonus is you can travel this great country and without having to pay for hotel/motel rooms etc. Thank you for posting this. Safe journeys!!!

[@Writ3r_Dude]

I am very impressed with your build...both builds.I am especially impressed with what you did with your solar and electrical system.

[@sylviau7901]

Now the only thing that’s missing to build a van is Jimmy and Natalie.😊 You guys are so selfless to do this. This is what I love about this channel. Also, since you guys built Saguaro, inflation has gone through the roof. Bravo!

[@JuliaBrooke]

I love the transparency of this video! I also recently converted my van & felt like it was a ton of money (mine was at 49k total) but I definitely feel a lot safer in a newer van than my old one🙏🏼 it’s nice knowing that price is about average now! Safe travels guys!!🏔️🚐🌞

[@heidiagner5091]

I guess I’m a numbers geek. I really find the cost breakdowns interesting. I’m sure that your information will help those considering a build in understanding the true costs involved. And if you wanna give us more numbers I’ ll be happy to watch that kind of content. Along with your travels.

[@Cue881]

A very good video guys! You should be very proud of yourselves for what you have accomplished. You have both done an excellent job. The price of vans are incredible these days. When I bought my complete Winnebago conversion it was a 1994 Dodge 250 and it was loaded with everything. That cost me $18,000 in '95 and it had less than 6,000 miles. It included the roof air, sink, bed, captains, chairs, tv etc. And it had 30 amp power. Sure wish I had it now! Keep up the videos and stay safe. I look for you on the road. Now I travel in a Springbar tent and a Hyundai Santa Fe!

[@randy1203]

I, for one, enjoyed your bus and van build. I have picked up numerous tips and ideas viewing these builds. Like I've said before, you're both a breath of fresh air!!! Following your technique is brilliant, which has given me and others the confidence to tackle these projects!!! Thanks for sharing. Even the little things all add up and make a big difference. Since I'll be starting out full-time, your gasoline purchase per gallon would be interesting to know. Please keep posting your videos!!! Have fun and enjoy each other on your adventures. Toledo 💙

[@BobBohner4851]

I’m a retired independent financial planner and you blow me away with your dedication, planning, record keeping and your love to help others. Please spend a little video time soon on what we can do to support you. I heard finishing a video all the way gives you more credits. Please tell us what habits we could do can result in more income for you. You are welcome to say 0:01 a financial planner of over 24 years asked you for this. You help us so we should help you. Only about 25% of my clients were as responsible as you and they were 60+ years old. Great job you two

[@BobBohner4851]

I also help build 6 houses and was a shop teacher so hopefully that makes you even happier about my compliments

[@donnaniles3832]

You two are absolutely amazing! The info you put out here and on your site will be priceless to folks that are working on deciding what they want and/or what they can afford in a build and which items they can or cannot live without.

[@alhakeem7519]

I always wondered the cost of building the bus and how much you sold it for. It was a good bus and build. Specially the shower which Natalie built. However, those problems you've had with it are really complicated. I remember the bus spent about a week or so in a shop because the mechanics contracted covid. And you two had to book a place to sleep. Anyway, you had good memories with it. Hopefully the next owner enjoys it and make good memories too. But it was a surprise to learn that the van cost more. Despite of not having a shower built in it.

[@o.c.smithiii2626]

I liked it. More on the expenses is welcomed and encouraged. You might consider going through in one video all of the mechanical issues that plagued your first few months, and remind folks of the schoolie shop that finally got your rig running right. Was there a preference for the international chassis, or was it just the body style you were after and the one you found just happened to be an International?

[@Joedisney]

Even my 81 year-old mother enjoyed watching your numbers , well done

[@LoganC278]

Thank you so much for this video and being so transparent. It feels much more human to show us the struggle of the high costs during vanlife, I'd be interested in more videos about the financials of vanlife

[@jimsowder446]

I think is was wonderful to share your costs in order to help future beginning builders.

[@AdventureTrudge]

Your dedication to your budget is so impressive! You guys should be super proud of the quality builds you created for these prices. I loveee cost breakdown videos, thanks so much for sharing! 🧡

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Aw, thanks so much you guys! 😊💚

[@michaeldeckert6023]

You both from the start have always been so positive and uplifting. You being so transparent must help someone along the way and that should make your heart feel good. Just listening to how thorough you were, puts a smile on so many people smile. Just keep doing what you're doing. Thank you for taking us on your journey.

[@samydamico9843]

Love the information! You guys did so much to get ready and build both vehicles. One last category: Love into both builds~priceless!

[@itsnotme07]

I liked it enough to subscribe. How's that? LOL Seriously, great job on the builds and the breakdown of costs!! WOW van prices are just silly from where they should be. Look forward to catching more of your content soon. Enjoyed the Niagara Falls stop..."Why are they walking to Canada?" Cause it's fun....yes, I've done that...course it was 10 cents on the toll back in 1991 and I didn't need a passport.

[@blairinhemet]

Thank you so much for this video--it's great to know the $$$ involved from real people, not so much the fancy, over the top, recirculating showers, heated floors people--not that that's a bad thing for them but I'm between a minimalist and a tightwad and I loved your approach to comfort but affordable

[@lambo_and_doc]

This was a great video. This was able to show the reality of a build and how much the mark up is on Class B vans at stealerships. Not only that you built it, you know every inch of the build if something goes wrong, much neater and simplistic. So many Pro’s to this van build. Enjoy it and keep up the good work.

[@loragunning5394]

I think this is a great video! Will help a lot of folks dreaming of van life be realistic about the initial outlay, and help them decide if they may have the skills for DIY build, let alone the financial resources.

[@lonniecarlson8866]

I really loved this week's video. It was great to see how much you learned and were able to save on the second build. Great job on both builds. You should both be so proud of everything you've accomplished.

[@marajazwieck675]

Such great info you two! Thank you for your transparency and such a positive outlook on everything . I looked for you when you were in Santa Fe! Hope your summer is full of fun and great adventures. Keep these great video's coming! Best wishes from sunny Santa Fe, New Mexico

[@OmegaWalple]

I found it to be informative and helpful, did not know they still made lead fittings for plumbing.... Daily or weekly life cost could also be good to know as well.

[@tankscrittersandurbanhomes5579]

You 2 did great on both honestly. Neither seem cheaply built. You got all vital systems done right. Great job. 55k for a fully functional van is awesome.

[@stephenschuit7880]

Your financial transparency is helpful and honorable. You are good people with solid character. Your parents did a great job.

[@forestskylove]

You two are awesome. I've been watching you from about the beginning. And I subscribed right away. You started off relatively inexperienced, and adventuring into the unknown lifestyle of vanlife, and due to your sweet charm, ability to go with the flow, figure things out as you go with the flow, and flex your intelligence, plus a huge part of VanLife, is, you both working so well as a couple, like a real team! Your unique down-home manners and sweet style, has developed a following of people who like your honest goodness. Plus, with your intelligence, you have managed yourselves economically very well as a team. I tell people about both of you. I'm happy to announce to others about your ability to figure things out and develop your unique style of vanlife that promotes fun and adventure, while being free to live the ways you choose, and, you share your adventures with us who appreciate the sweet good people that you are. Earth needs more good natured people like you two Jimmy and Natalie. Thank you for sharing🌻✨️💚

[@darlenehorn8337]

I think your video was great. I believe you have helped alot of people who were wondering if they could afford doing something like this. Me personally, I'm not a crafty person. Have been watching you two for quite sometime. Both of you are absolutely adorable, this great Grandma would love to adopt you both!!!! Take care be safe and God Bless from Traveling great Grandma Darlene ❤

[@Kld4402]

How cool guys. I don't believe I would do a single thing different. Cool to see you progress and adapt. Congrats on the amount the bus brought. I hope you have many happy adventures in the van!

[@tedwalford7615]

Hugely great video! - Some eye-opening costs there; I'd not have imagined plumbing and hardware to cost so much. Paint, too; it all adds up. And I had watched you building out the van, so this was a great wrap-up. Plus, you're giving us access to even more info, on your new site! Thank you, and best wishes in your traveling life!

[@JimmyandNatalie]

We also thought it was cool to see the breakout by category! So glad you appreciate the website, and thanks so much for your support! 💚😄

[@lucktacular]

Great video. I'm interested in tiny home and van life builds and you guys really put together a thoughtful website for those looking to plan their own builds. Thank you!

[@wegottafishdude]

🤘🏻😎🤘🏻 Awesome stuff guys

[@JimmyandNatalie]

Thanks!! 💚

[@theyorkshirerosebus]

Appreciate the breakdown. I have all my receipts for my bus and I started in the beginning to keep track of everything in an excel and stopped when I I started returning things that weren't right for the job - it was just overwhelming at that point. I also did the build over 4 months so I was under a time crunch too.

[@ES-qt6yo]

Great video, your straight forward, humble approach is really appreciated. It is such a good thing that you have also built a website to share all of the details about your builds. You guys rock!!

[@MaddogCapt11]

I thoroughly enjoyed your video. It was so professional...the graphics, to presentation, the candor were all awesome. Yes, I definitely would like to see more videos showing the daily costs of living the van life. Who knows, maybe I might get the chance to do it in a limited manner. If not, I think I have said this before--I am living it vicariously through the two of you.

[@UnrealTalent]

Im not technical so i dont wanna install all the electrical. Im only using cheap flex solar panel on my roof rack of my rav 4 hybrid that runs inside my suv to an ecoflow generator Since my interior is fully stock i saved alot. Altho its not as comfortable as a customized van. Since im on full disability living in my suv, i cant afford or know how to build anything. This video helps give me some ideas to what i can upgrade so thank u so much. Love your channel, i watch it daily since im new to this vanlife

[@KnotHead01]

OMG! the electrical playbook alone helps tremendously! Y'all are so awesome. I enjoy the weekly videos!

[@gregoryanderson6717]

Your not bragging at all this is a fantastic help to others, thank you!

[@evelyndunn50]

Thank you this will help other people build. Well done!

[@h00d000]

Very good budgeting and accounting of all costs (down to cents). My build is full of mistakes and I’m constantly over budget because of that. I would like to hear how you budget your travels. Thank you!

[@philipdamask2279]

I think you two have done a great job on these two different approaches to van life and schoolee life. I am sure your cost breakdowns will help others.

[@BevDessert]

I love this comparison. You did an awesome job. I know someone that spent over 100K on the Van build and at that price point it doesn't make sense. To get a beautiful van for 55K total is truly what DIY van life fe should be about.

[@spencermoore7579]

Such a awesome video, sadly money runs everything so this video is so important. Thanks so much I hope it helps so many people!!

[@BlessedFarm]

Great job guys I’m so glad you are enjoying life together and living your dream. Love you guys God Bless!

[@tlhod3409]

I'm three years off my planned retirement date and my plan is to do much as you do but in Canada. Thank you for the breakdown because it helps me guestimate what kind of expenses I'm looking at. Obviously there's much I'd do different because of my age and only travelling 1/2 the year but this is really helpful.

[@rvingtheusa]

My bestie freind keeps telling me to ditch my Class C and get a van. Love you shared the facts of the cost. Helps me to be happy with what I have and feel comfortable with financially. Love your views on the RV life. So refreshing to have truth without click bait drama. Sugercoated videos that are misleading those contemplating the lifestyle are so rampant on you tube and so wrong. Keep it honest, keep it real 😊

[@SkullBro]

I decided to build a trailer, but to go over and above what I 'needed' for my electrical, and built it out bit by bit over a long period so the cost didn't smack me in the face all at once. Then, if I eventually find a van that doesn't cost more than a bloody house 4 years ago, I will transplant that and resell my trailer after recovering what I can as a utility or toy hauler trailer.

[@williamrandall6472]

Hey you 2,I found this video to be very nice, as well as welcoming, which is normal with Jimmy and Natalie. I am excited to see where the 2 of you grow from here.

[@cnjsharp2]

Very well done. Your desire to share is met with much appreciation. And yes, be proud of your achievements as well as the sacrifices you’ve made along the way.

[@Untamedlove]

You both really planned this out and set up a financial plan to make it happen. I'm just so surprised how young people don't know how to plan for the future. I grew up in the 1960...I started working at 6 years old cutting neighbors grass...at 8 years old I got a paper route until I was 10 years old...I opened my bank account at that age in school...each week we had our teacher save money for us...and at 12 years old I got a bank account..it was called a Christmas account and could only take out money in December..

[@karlphoenix9068]

First time I have watched one of your videos..super informative…I’m glad I watched..thanks Your offer to give a free summary of your entire costs on your new Chanel is truly generous

[@lyndalabine2875]

Omg you this is the reason I am a Patreon member…..you’re fun and wise beyond your years…both your bus and now the van are quality builds….and you could never buy a house for what you have spent on the van…I see designing home vans in your future…..a cozy surprisingly roomy home that can go just about any where….this was a teachable video ….thank you…..❤

[@jeffreyferguson83]

This was an Excellent video! Extremely easy to follow no matter who you are. I think those considering do this Vanlife thing really need to know what it takes, and the commitment that is required. I congratulate you on That. Your daily cost breakdown would be good to see as well. Great Job 😇😇

[@janettowery6687]

Yes , we want more videos like this.. That was very informative ..🎉 Thanks❣️

[@djmclovin7741]

Just stumbled onto your channel I to live on the road.... a little different circumstances but I travel extensively for work... but its nice to see some fellow nomads doing what they love and making good content

[@pennyblea8133]

I'd like to see you both do more cooking and food preparations ! It's also good to hear what you spent on your builds too !😊

[@ruffles761]

Not bad at all. You built your home exactly like you wanted it. That is worth a lot. Awesome

[@harley9218]

This was an exceptionally well presented video. My only question at the end was what products were free. You mentioned you saved I believe $4000 by receiving these products at no cost.

[@JimmyandNatalie]

It mostly accounted for our 3 batteries (200Ah LiFePO4 x3) and our 3 solar panels (175W x3). There was a few packs of cables and connectors in there - but that was the bulk of the “free” stuff.

[@L8BLUUMR]

I have been curious about this but as much as you already share, I didn't feel that we were really entitled to know. Thank you for your guidance!

[@2004farmertom]

having actual costs helps put a build in perspective this for put out the information

[@dylansotnick7878]

This was so helpful you guys are absolutely amazing!!

[@mikemanjo2458]

Yay! Congrats on the website launch. I love it! Y'all are so awesome and generous to share all this!❤❤❤Jane

[@RealProVanR]

Great video! It is extremely helpful to see what materials are needed, as well as cost. I have a 2018 Ram Promaster 2500. Build out with similar electronics but no roof rack or composting was $55k. I am not mechanically inclined and was lost on the electronics. You guys saved a lot being able to diy. Outstanding presentation.

[@jaggjagg5928]

I totally appreciate your honesty and full disclosure of both builds and would welcome future financial videos. Awesome job. Thank you soooo much!

[@deecee9051]

I loved this video. It is so very helpful. I would love to see a video sharing the additional topics you mentioned at the end. Thanks again for this video.

[@ninastump7616]

thanks for passing on your knowledge. my son using youtube videos for help on everything since my husband passed, he is it because I don't know much about everyday repairs.

[@robertdaymouse3784]

I was looking for a used van around the same time frame, the prices were insane, I refused to pay that much for a used van. I had the luxury of being able to wait for a new Promaster van. It took 11 months but I finally got it 2 weeks ago.

[@sammystephens7823]

Would like to know how much y’all make on the road. Watch y’all every time a new one comes out. Keep up the great adventures. God bless you two.

[@jeffhammond8319]

You too are awesome and it's really something like what you showed on both Builds and the difference Everything cost even your mistakes it is great. keep on Enjoying life And have a great day. God-bless you two.

[@fayepotts3279]

Thank you so much for sharing your wealth of knowledge on building out both the bus and now the van. It was a very detailed presentation. How ever, I’d rather see you travel and share your experiences in that way.

[@michelle14749]

I am so glad the van is treating you well, I remember when you first set out with the bus and it broke down in the 8 States you travelled too 🙈

[@markj10]

Amazing to build out for $13k and you did a great job!! I’m embarrassed to say my build is over $30k, ….heater alone was $2400 before installation.😮

[@cadence9055]

Thank you! I could have used this vid abt 3 years ago when I started out with my Transit build. One stop rather than abt 100 😮various vids!! Concise and so useful for the beginner or someone doing a renovation. Will look into your website for specifics!! 🤗 🤗

[@darlenewillbrandt1628]

Thank you for breaking down the cost and talking about the lessons learned. It gives me food for thought.

[@AnnieSATX]

Thank you for all this great information. My husband and I are older and have rehab’d several houses in our day, but now would like to drive around and see this beautiful country. We may get help with a conversion labor, but at least have basic numbers to look at. Thanks again, Annie Sierra, San Antonio, Tx