Tour of Solo Woman Living in a Minivan and Tent | No-Build Van Life

THIS VIDEO WAS RECORDED IN WINTER OF 2020
Today we are speaking with Mariah who lives in this wonderful 2006 Dodge Grand Caravan and has a large camp with a tent. Mariah lives on social security and already had the minivan before going out on the road!
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Thanks for watching!

[@PMK7734]

I am forever amazed by the ingenuity of van dweller designs.

[@naomihoover4265]

I can feel the pain Mariah felt when her daughter told her to move out. I’m going through that now. But the strength she has is helping me be strong. Thank you for this video. Hoping for the best for Mariah.

[@birdysbus]

You'll get through it and find your way. Good luck.

[@rebelgirl7289]

I think she did her a favor, letting her have time for herself and for adventure. I think it will be good for both of them in the long run. Kids always come back and hopefully the daughter will realize everything her mother did when she didn't do it for a change. I'm sorry, Naomi, as I also am having similar issues. Even though I am invited, I am reluctant because of respect issues. I'm seriously wanting to do what Mariah is doing and very soon. I just don't have a van, but a car, and also am on S.S. Just waiting for my empty home to get an offer. I wish you both the best.

[@rustykatt3870]

All the best to you Naomi 😀.

[@jhemnes1]

I'm in the same situation. You are right it is painful and I'm struggling to get over it. I'm off grid in my abandoned mobile home living ink one room but saving for a van to head out west. This Alabama dampness is awful on my body. My Altima just isn't big enough for me and two dogs or I would be in the road now. Hope you find some peace

[@EvieVermont]

Hoping the best for you!

[@Lilliancooks]

My heart broke when I heard her story, but she figured out van life real quick! She looks like a pro already😀👍

[@birdysbus]

Lol. Thanks. I did a lot of research here in this channel. I learned everything I needed to know right here.

[@Lilliancooks]

@@birdysbus yes, lots of great info on KZbin 😀👍

[@mildredwebster2822]

Totally impressed. You.can see she is genuinely nice. Unfortunately her daughter kicked her out, however she is no longer a babysitter for her daughter Need I say more!!!! Amazing job!!!!

[@kellyprobst3533]

I’m sure having a dog rescue in her home was an issue . I wouldn’t be able to live like that .

[@TheSunGoethDown]

I wouldn’t mind my mom doing some traveling in a van but I would never send her away. So happy to see Mariah has found a way to make it work. I have a Town & Country which is similar so I’m taking notes.

[@always.wondering.wandering]

Wow, amazing! Good for you Mariah, you found a way to live and within your means. Thanks Bob, for sharing Mariah with us.

[@rebelgirl7289]

This has to be one of my favorites. She thinks of every little thing and works it out perfectly. I'm right there with you, Mariah, with the S.S. and daughter issues. I will no doubt be out there soon when my empty place gets an offer. Then I'm heading west at warp speed. Have lots of wonderful adventures. Great video, Bob. You're the best!

[@ozzo189]

Definitely my kind of lady !!!!! " You need to have a back up for the back up !!!"...... I'm all about having a back up for the back up !!!!

[@susieturk1]

A fellow dog person when she said "rescue"my ears perked up. I just know I'm going to find so many like-minded people when I finally get out there!

[@birdysbus]

Thanks. The minivan was totalled. Now I have a short skoolie. I have with me my dog, a disabled duck in a wheelchair, a bantam rooster rescue, and a blind pigeon. Hope to see you out there.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

Me too! Actually I’ll rescue or help rescue any animal, not just dogs. Love animals.

[@birdysbus]

Me too. I love animals. I ran a rescue for 3 years. My daughter moving out was the end of the rescue because I couldn't afford rent on my own and no one would put up with my crazy house full of animals as a roommate. Besides, I couldn't do it alone. The grandkids and my daughter helped run that rescue and care for the animals.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

@@birdysbus I help, specially in Baja, there’s a no kill rescue and they do so much with so little. My 70 lb pit mix is from the streets there, has been with me a little over a year. She’s a great camping dog, my other one is my old buddy, rescued at 4 months old from the shelter here in California which is a kill shelter. I’m retired and travel with my dogs from my place in the mountains in Cali to my place in Baja and want to explore more at different State Parks and such, I’ve done extensive tent camping thus a van would be luxury for me, lol. I tried to look for your channel but couldn’t find it, don’t know why. Never mind, I found it and subscribed, yay!

[@lisarichards3853]

This is inspiring for me. My daughter has had me move out recently also. God bless this gal.

[@annsayger5842]

Alot of bang for the buck👍 Wow!!! The most I've ever seen packed in a mini van. She's thought of everything>roof top vent 👍

[@autumnskyes5633]

This is an amazing set up. My oldest and I. We are private people in general and are looking into finding our own ways. She doesn't agree with me and my wanting a nomadic lifestyle though. It causes a lot of tension. As I see it we are both grown women. As much as we love each other there's a time when we must all have a life of our own. If I am to give an honest example who wants to bring a boyfriend back to mom's place or the other way around? I would feel the same way. Yeah it hurts when kids finally feel they want their own space but it's a good thing. Her daughter can truly be on her own and this brave woman can finally live her best life within her means. Both will live life on their own terms and be able to experience a different dynamic in their mother/daughter relationship.

[@EveninSkye]

I have a feeling there may be many people who are seeing all kinds of new, and different, options in these situations 🥰😊🤗 I know I am and it’s wonderful!

[@birdysbus]

Yes, exactly. Sure set me free, really. But I didn't see it that way at first. I was very hurt and angry. Then I realized she was living my dream. I'm so glad she's happy and I'm happy too.

[@EveninSkye]

@@birdysbus ♥️ I’m blessed to have involvement with my kids and grandkids now … it was a different story 20 years ago though … all we can do is be our best and help when we’re needed … It can get emotional, highs and lows, but in the end it’s a great life to live 💘

[@rustyscrib6071]

This is very impressive!! I can't believe she's going to put a tub in there...I really want to see that...please do an update.

[@birdysbus]

The van got totalled and I have a short skoolie now. I'm finishing my build rn.

[@anio1349]

@@birdysbus your van got totalled?!? I'm so sorry to hear that. Hope you can turn that into a blessing. You seem good at turning lemons into lemonade! Godspeed, sister!

[@ChrisW228]

I have seen it done, though. In the one I saw, he put a dog tub into one of the stow and go wells.

[@frogsforsusan]

@@birdysbus It breaks my heart to see you put so much into that van and it's gone, but I can't wait to see your skoolie build. You're just so creative!

[@jeepliving1]

A lost van becomes a schoolie build. Something about lemons and lemonade?

[@granneeanneestravelingbuck6592]

I'm feeling how she feels. I have the same happening here. But got troubles with this last repair. Soon as done got to go

[@carmenmartinez2882]

This is so helpful as I’m getting ready to do it and have 2 rescued dogs a 35 lbs (14 years old) and a 70 lbs (3 years old), they’re already used to tent camp with me thus the van should be easier but I am looking into having enough space for them while traveling. You’ve given me great ideas thanks.

[@rs5570]

I also have 2 rescue dogs & they go where I go. They are my family & I love them with all my heart..I’m making a plan, trying to build my emergency fund. I would love to know another lady nomad who loves animals. Best of luck.

[@heathroush5343]

I really like the chaise lounge / bed idea.

[@anio1349]

I decided to read all 120 comments (and counting) before asking what's a skoolie... LOL, I thought it was the name of a housing for birds (pigeon rescue), not a school bus transformation! LOL Best of luck to you, Mariah! @the DIVANCI Road

[@birdysbus]

Awww. Just ask. Everyone is usually pretty cool about answering. My pigeon rescue was called Lofty Hopes. I hope to meet you out there in the road.

[@darlahorton4837]

I didn't even know heated lunchboxes existed! I will be getting one later for my van. I love this channel! I have learned so much!❤

[@tja3495]

Ditto!

[@birdysbus]

The heated lunch box is incredible.

[@niteal1255]

@@birdysbus Perhaps I missed the info, please share where we can get a heated lunch box.

[@katherinenicholas7116]

Really awesome and creative build! I love how you have created an outdoor room that also stores in your van and serves dual purposes. Really thoughtful. Best wishes to you on YOUR new adventures!

[@seanh4841]

What a wonderful lady, she is a survivor and an animal lover as well

[@hopeheavenonplanetearth1417]

Another smart person I can’t wait to meet on the road!!!

[@birdysbus]

Hope to see you out there.

[@silby77]

This is exactly what I am planning on doing once my daughter is older and I retire. Have a van/tent combo and live the nomad life!

[@grandmasboy3544]

Congratulations Girl!!.. I'm in Same Boat in a Sense!. Thanks for the Motivation & Encouragement!!.. & for Sharing Your Van!!.. ✌️. 11/28/21

[@winstondeocampo699]

Good for you. Time to do what you want to do and enjoy yourself. Safe travels!

[@birdysbus]

Thank you. I'm happy and my daughter is happy too. Its a win win. And I get to take my grandkids on a month long trip in January. The minivan was totalled and I'm finishing up a short skoolie build rn. Its better because I can take my grandkids and I have more rescued pets now.

[@Luvpig]

Deja vu! Same story except I told my daughter I'm leaving home to travel but my Dogue de Bordeaux is staying home. Freedom here we come. Safe travels sister girl. X

[@birdysbus]

Thank you

[@turquoisewitch.wild-owl]

They sell those chairs/beds at Walmart and at Amazon. I've totally though of using something like that! Now I can see that it really works well!

[@nohomenomad1427]

Thought one of those chase loungers things would work well in a cargo trailer thing I'm planing out (on paper).

[@birdysbus]

It does, but it's very hard. Get a cot sized memory foam mattress.

[@tja3495]

Thank you, Bob, I have dreams of being on the road but must take time to reduce material items and decide on the type of transportation I want to start. Your videos do provide much needed information and good tips from the people on the road you interview. Thanks again.

[@mishannockpa2008]

This is where I'm at.

[@datBoondockingdiva]

@TJ A - Congrats on starting your reducing process! I decided to do Van Life part-time while I learn to declutter. I've fallen in love with tiny spaces & minimalism. I'm so much more happier with less stuff/status---and more of time w/ financial stability. Doing part-time Van Life in my Roadtrek RV is teaching me so much about how to have less stuff & more freedom/adventure with ease.

[@yourworstnightmare5902]

Yay, fellow rescuer and vegan. Good luck in your travels, I am impressed!….Be kind to animals, don’t eat them!

[@Kimberley_Black_White_TV]

I very much enjoyed this. Thank you!

[@barackmycat9448]

She`ll be fine. Very resourceful.

[@maceyjohnson6101]

I camp in my Pacifica with a 210 lbs Saint Bernard! Went from Wi to Utah and Arizona with just me and my Saint!

[@naomihoover4265]

Also love the she has the van set up.

[@catgotyourtongue8279]

Absolutely impressive!!! You go girl!!!

[@hermansmith8254]

Looks like she really has a nice set up Often thought about tent Enjoy your travels

[@birdysbus]

Get a tent that attached to the rear of your van. I have one now and it's great. Any other tent was destroyed within a couple of weeks. Being attached to the van helps it hold up in the wind and weather.

[@hermansmith8254]

@@birdysbus thank you Are you on KZbin?

[@johnsimpson8198]

Great video Bob, Mariah has everything she could want, great setup!

[@steadmanuhlich6734]

TO ALL: FYI: There are links in the video description (just below the video window) for several of the items shown in this video, including the lounge chair, the bucket and the storage box., among other things. . And, as I read the comments and replies from The DaVANci Road (the woman in this video), this minivan was unfortunately totaled. She is now the owner and building out a short Schoolie.

[@darlenefitzgerald4371]

Thank you I Was trying to figure that Out I’m so sorry her awesome Van got totaled.

[@cherannretiredgran68]

Ahhh... that's sad.😞 I hope she got a nice settlement and has something even better now. I discovered these videos after my caravan was totaled. Now I have a basic package Chrysler Town and Country Touring minivan. Hoping I can start going on day trips, weekend, and maybe longer, trips. I'm 66 and get about 800 a month. So it will take time to work on a satisfactory what I refer to as a "soft build" (no-build build).

[@steadmanuhlich6734]

@@cherannretiredgran68 It can be done. Happy Trails!

[@cherannretiredgran68]

@@steadmanuhlich6734 ty

[@rustykatt3870]

Hi Bob! Thanks for another great video! Hi Mariah! Great van build....very smart 😊.

[@birdysbus]

Thank you

[@mordanistl9869]

Wait just a minute! Ya mean I’m at work eating cold lunches and they make a 12volt lunch box ugh lol ! Thanks bob and girl in this video, game changer ps I go full nomadic December 3rd bless y’all see you out there

[@birdysbus]

I never knew they existed either until just recently. It popped up on Amazon as something I should buy. I'm so glad I did.

[@kaysmith6297]

Those boxes are The Bomb. It comes with a 12V plus a 110V plug and the stainless fork & spoon plus a small container for veggies or meat if you are cooking rice. I used to eat soup right out of the can to save getting stove & a pan out. Now, soup, or whatever, in this, plug it in & dinner is ready when i want to eat!

[@Leon-lp9fl]

Lady neatness and super organized. Thanks for sharing

[@kellystinydreamsbus]

Looking so forward to meeting up with this amazing soul and bringing all of our rescued pigeon kids together. (She's in a skoolie now.)

[@birdysbus]

I can't wait to meet you and hang out.

[@itsmimiyallxoxo5624]

Very clever set up in a minivan. And her dog...omg, what a cutie patootie!!!

[@FeMiNem-Poet]

WOW!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Love the 2 bedroom tent. Everything VERY Organized. Thank you!!!!!!!!!!!! Going to follow her channel. Want to see a bathtub. So many people love their baths!!!!!!!!!!!💐💐💐💐

[@russellrlf]

Love that back storage unit, especially the way it was hinged!

[@QCDoggies]

Mariah's got such positive vibes! ❤️

[@birdysbus]

Thank you so much.

[@MountainGirlwIPA]

Wow she did an incredible job with the propane and foldout storages. Just goes to show not everyone needs to freak out about housing interest rates. Good for her!

[@justmona9647]

Wow Mariah has to be a very organized person!

[@birdysbus]

Sometimes to organized. My lists and research take up a lot my day. 😂

[@thomasharhen2168]

Best one I've seen ever

[@janchapman3746]

Hi mariah. Jan here. Say if your daughter said to leave. Guess what sweet lady. She did you a favor. Sometimes i wish my husband would tell me to leave. I would be a nomad. Yay. Yay.yay. ive been wanting to be a nomad for 3 yrs. Now. Had a little savings. But when the pandemic hit. There went the savings. So we are broke now. Im definately a nomad wannabe. Ive watched so many of bobs videos. Love you bob and cody and your family. Let us know about your travels. Love the tent and the car set up. We have a small. Subcompact car. No room. I want a step van. The big one. It would have plenty of room for 2 people comfortable. I already have the van built thought about. May god bless

[@leahharbison3189]

God Bless her

[@EvieVermont]

Lemons? Lemonade! Good for you, lady! Loving the tree toilet, lounge chair/bed and the Thule turned sideways! You seem to have it all covered, and more!

[@birdysbus]

Thank you

[@widowswatch6610]

She has everything.... Safe and well travels to you. Thanks Bob , love your videos.. lots of information always.☮️

[@EveninSkye]

Tons of useful information…💝 Thank you so much for sharing this! 😊

[@jeanmcgahey1143]

Heart breaking story but Mariah has guts and determination to make a successful life. Best van tour. Best use of space. So many folk have too much stuff all over the place. This is neat. Love that she has a stunning dog companion too. God bless and safe adventures Mariah

[@BuckJones1909]

Amazing! So, complete and efficient!

[@russellsherwood2315]

Thank you for the tips and ideas, this is what just might work for me, if the people in the depression of the past can live like this so can I,,and to an extent the pioneer's of the old west, thank you Mariah for sharing this with us,it was great!!

[@ronpeted]

That's a pretty cool set-up .

[@bernadettegraffeo9995]

Mariah, you stay strong and think of YOU now... girlllll.....I could tell you stories ......but ......in the end....our strength keeps us going and sometimes with adventures we never dreamed of....God bless you! ..❤

[@capttzuzu]

getting the chair for my astro van i need the room for my wheel chair thanks

[@ozzo189]

HEY BOB !!!! LOVE YOU AND YOUR VIDEOS !!!! Thank You !!!!

[@christinewoodall2702]

Very nice and functional

[@kdc1153]

The creativity is awesome! And I can relate to her pain with her daughter... Often wonder what the heck happened to that generation, that they seem to have no desire for family closeness like we experienced. Makes me very sad.

[@donwyates]

I too can relate. Though I've come to accept and even prefer the distance/separation. Sometimes, that "divorce" from the parent/adult child relationship can be a good thing for both parties. Especially if you're constantly around each other. Independence from family conditioning. Both parties can still love each other, and miss the other's presence. But there are times when absence can help the strengthen the relationship. Of course, of you're at opposite ends of the political spectrum, distance & time can heal.

[@birdysbus]

I agree. Honestly, she set me free. I'm glad she's living her dream and I'm now living mine. We have always been close friends and I'm glad she's strong enough to stand up when she's not happy. Although, in the beginning I was very upset and angry. Now I'm happy for her and myself.

[@docink6175]

Awesome setup!

[@shelleyordonio]

Great idea, never thought of lining my rear storage to make it into a bath/shower! I always learn! Thank you Bob! Thank you Mariah!

[@thomasharhen2168]

That's an awesome minivan

[@birdysbus]

Thank you

[@MsAngelaRenee70]

Thank you so much for sharing this. I am at what I feel like is my last resort for housing, which is my daughter's house. And I get the feeling that I may have to leave. This is so encouraging for me.

[@62WILDCAT]

Saw Mariah her 3 mos ago. Been searching for my Van. Love her set up. For now ,I'll be traveling in my 2008 Toyota Solara Convertible with a tent ,visiting friends & a cousin along my way from Florida panhandle to "out WEST " ! Thinking I'll eventually sell my car & live in a van.

[@tikitiki7610]

amazing setup, this woman is amazing all the way around!! hearts and hugs to her

[@esthermarcen7587]

I really love the loo hideout, so lovely and cute, the best I saw

[@naomihoover4265]

Thank you Bob.

[@susanmboudreau]

Wow lots of clever ideas for such a small space very well organised going to check your channel out good for her

[@laurajphillips]

Fantastic!

[@luzrucci5534]

Very creative!

[@adamwalker7338]

Nice design. She had unique requirements and solved for those.

[@wendy4498]

I absolutely love this!

[@tomcatt998]

Them R some "wild" pants 👍🙃👍

[@realestateinfonet9041]

Superb build! Thanks for taking the time to share it with us! Sincere regards!

[@stevengatewood2725]

The dual tent living space looks great. Nice job Mariah.

[@s.l.nicholson4240]

I'm happy that she's happy.

[@62WILDCAT]

Want to know more about doing a bathtub there !

[@Morningdovecamp]

Great ideas!! She is very creative!! Beautiful dog! Happy travels 🌞👍🚙🏞️🏜️🐶

[@ralphgoudy8149]

One of the best designs I've seen. Very clever and smart. Plus Kudos to Mariah for moving forward positively from a tough situation. Im more inspired to do the same. Thanks

[@nancyeberlein7357]

Just wow!

[@retirementbootcampoff-grid237]

Don't carry propane in your car for heating. Use butane cylinder stove works fine and safer.

[@stevenearls2456]

wow! I love her!

[@steadmanuhlich6734]

There are several things about this build I find interesting or noteworthy. I like the way the solar panels on the roof are angled, as it makes sense for getting maximum efficiency if pointed towards the sun, AND it can serve as a windbreak for the box or other stuff behind it. I have not seen that in any other builds.

[@gailjohnson6670]

You have done an amazing/awesome/ job on how everything fits and so organized. So many great ideas. Thank you for the video. Blessing to you

[@mildredwebster2822]

Totally impressed

[@beatricem7224]

Love her bed set up. Great for a van.

[@faze_buendia9514]

I love the setup this woman has!

[@cindythecatwoman1601]

That's a very cool van setup. I like how the bed converts into a seat.

[@Vex916T]

I got mad Mariah's daughter kicked her out of the house, but after seeing how Mariah lives now I think it's great she left and now she can live the life she wants with less responsibilities to do too.

[@cherannretiredgran68]

Ahhh... yes. I've been considering doing the same. PT first. I think of it as, "Wow!!! Sweet Freedom." If I do I think that's what I will name my Van.. That doesn't sound too bad it's a Chrysler Town & Country turning Van all silver. If anyone can think of a nicer more appropriate name for an all silver van, please let me. know.

[@ItsMimiYallXOXO]

great setup and such a comfortable home! Also, Im in love with her dog!! sooooo cute!!!

[@donnamount151]

It's a chair bed Bob...I bought one for my pickup that I move to my 13' vintage trl...LOVE them...

[@62WILDCAT]

AWESOME lady !

[@hg2.]

Only 2 minutes into it... she rocks! 👍👍

[@birdysbus]

Lol. Thank you.

[@findingtruth2717]

I love your set up !!!

[@birdysbus]

Thank you

[@kristinasimons4842]

Very well thought out

[@anitacash5919]

Mariah, you got it going on!!! Your build is awesome. I'm getting on the road with my rescue in February, I'm a little nervous but I have been wanting to do van life since 2002...it's time!!!

[@allisallaboutthedog6103]

Wow alot of stuff in that van. Good job.

[@clarebrant5305]

Yep a heap of ideas. 👍

[@Sarah-zv9ug]

She is so clever! I wish her well!

[@Nomad1957]

That woman has a good set up...well done.