Van Life 101: ESSENTIALS List for Living in a Van, Car or RV

[@woofolliesmydog8628]

What I really love about your video's is that you never assume people can afford to buy something that is shown in the clip. I like that you are able to say "if you can't afford that, you can....." You are a very kind man, thank you for making these videos, they are very informative, insightful and inspirational. Your preparation is appreciated, your guests are wonderful and give me hope that one day, I can enjoy this lifestyle too:-)

[@georgiemiller3506]

"Ditto!"

[@jessicaleelovesyou]

Woof Olliesmydog I agree! His use of words is so kind and sensitive. I work in trauma and his natural way is the goal of how to speak to people with kindness.

[@alicefabia7867]

J

[@arroyobaby38]

Woof Olliesmydog - Yes I love that about him!!!

[@trina8cadwell472]

You have humanity approach.you dont underestimate. .

[@oldmedicinecrow]

My aunt is living in her Prius. She has been living in it for a couple if years and loves it. I was a truck driver so I knew just what she needed and sent her a few 12v things so sure could cook...

[@oldmedicinecrow]

She died a year ago in March. She refused to leave and come live with me

[@foodforinsomnia7026]

@@oldmedicinecrow I’m sorry for your loss.

[@SunniNomad]

I'm sorry sweetheart. I hope she was happy in life and had peace. Merry Christmas❤​@@oldmedicinecrow

[@timmyles314]

Traveling in a Prius ! Wow ! I once lived for a year in the back of my Toyota truck which had a nice topper . I worked at a hospital so I had access to shower . I kept my uniforms in a locker . My street clothes were on a garment rack in the very back of my truck . I used an inflatable mattress and sleeping bag . My one luxury was a battery operated portable CD player .

[@EGee-tc1si]

Your story is also an inspiration. Keep safe ☺

[@Curiousnessify]

mr fancy pants with a battery operated portable CD player

[@AuRowe]

Snowstorm in Grants PassOregon just before valentines day this year, got stuck in the snow on one of the mountains between Roseburg and Grants Pass and having an air mattress inflated in the backseat with a topper to block the heat under and a WEIGHTED BLANKET saved my life.

[@gordonphillips7229]

What do you mean by a weighted blanket? Surely a hollow fibre - filled quilt (duvet) of the same weight would have been much warmer.

[@2legit2Kwit]

Someone mentioned in the comment section below that you are a "professor", Bob. You are showing people how to live cheaply and with dignity! Thank you, Bob.

[@douglasfry5455]

Bob is awesome. His philosophy is so right.

[@douglasfry5455]

I love Bob, how about you?.

[@MaxStevenson-ih5ji]

wawawiwah vanlife= hot girl comments all daY!

[@shirleygabriel5967]

A agree with all the accolades above. I live in South Africa but dream of doing this in the UK where my daughter & grandsons live.

[@TrustingYourProcess]

Watching Bob's videos and others like Chrome and Crystal I have gained the courage to move into my van this month. I did buy a larger van but did a simple build just a plywood bed and bins. Just get started and improve as you go. It's about progress and not perfection.

[@ceeemmdee2599]

Good luck! I'm planning on doing the same in the next couple months!

[@fredmclaren1215]

I'm living in my SUV , the rent here in Irving, TX is 2 expensive! Is from $750-$800 a month for one bedroom, I'm gonna try one year living in my car , and go to the gym to work out & take showers 😉 then but the end of the year I'm going to travel ! ✈️

[@TrustingYourProcess]

Fred Mclaren that is what I am doing also. It’s been two months and I am figuring it out and enjoying myself

[@fredmclaren1215]

@@TrustingYourProcess that's good! This is how we can save some 💰 , I'm trying to build my own house in El Salvador , Central America , i need at least $40,000 so I can have a beautiful house , no taxes , no house insurance over there 😎

[@TrustingYourProcess]

@@fredmclaren1215 That's awesome! My ultimate goal is a tiny home but still working out the kinks.

[@Nic7320]

If you want a small well-built mattress, look at crib mattresses in the maternity section. They're just the right width for a small vehicle, and they're very comfortable since they're built like a real mattress. Just add some of your other cushions and pillows to both ends for extra length. The best thing is -- you sleep like a baby!

[@sunshinedayz2172]

Nic thanks for the tip!

[@janehope9730]

Been wondering if I could use one. Sleep on my side anyway. About 40 bucks at Wally's. TY!

[@janehope9730]

@@justwannasay5454 I think your first idea would work perfectly in my Jeep. Just put pillows or pads at head and feet. :)

[@deathuponusalll]

Nic lol like a baby 😝

[@diyimprover6887]

"Sleep like a baby" = wake up crying every two hours!

[@patrickloper671]

I want to go to this lifestyle. I'm sick of the rat race. Actually the "Hamster wheel race". Running myself to death getting nowhere. I started 2 years ago. It's a process to get to where you are but I am getting there. Thank you for your tips and wisdom

[@cruisepaige]

I left it five years ago. Van in the states 6 months, living cheaply and like a dream in Italy 6 months!

[@josephinearriaga7028]

That is so funny Patrick. I love that ...the part where you said running myself to death getting nowhere the hamster wheel race.LOL. I got to write that one down...thank you so much for making me laugh I was having a bad day but that was too much.

[@iasimovscientist4981]

@@cruisepaige took your van to Italy?

[@barbwichertpignatari2306]

Patrick good luck

[@reality_rv628]

My heart goes out to these brave women who tackle life on their own terms. Your energy is amazing!

[@lynnsweet6902]

As far as refrigeration, I travel and sleep in my car for months. I put ice in the Gallon Size Ziploc Bags. And then I put it inside a silver Cold/Hot bags you get in the grocery stores, usually in the freezer section. I then place that inside a large thermal tote with a zipper. The ice lasts a very long time. I empty out the water every couple of days which helps the ice last longer. The ziploc bag keeps the water contained. This allows me to keep some smaller refrigerated items such as lunch meat, mayonnaise, small containers of yogurt, etc. I use a rubbermaid container with a spout for milk. It holds about a quart. Sometimes if I ask very nice at convenience stores they will allow me to fill a ziploc bag with ice from the soda machines.

[@LetArtsLive]

I used to put my down jacket over at the cooler when I was camping in the summer in it worked really good

[@sunnyt334]

Love your ideas ❤ thanks!

[@LetArtsLive]

I wonder if you can use dry ice and if it lasts longer I have never tried it

[@TheShauNanigans]

Freezing water bottles is also nice because you always have water when it melts. This is what I do for shorter camping trips.

[@starwish2467]

@@LetArtsLive Good question. I do know that you can use regular içe water for drinking, washing, and cooking, so it is helpful.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Great ideas. Thank you for sharing! I would avoid the fruit cups. Not much nutrition. Better choices if fresh not possible would be dried raisins, prunes, apricots, etc. Also recommend nuts and seeds instead of those meals full of salt and white flour and sugar. Raw pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition. Almonds, chia seeds, etc. May seem expensive, but you get 16 servings per pound. Chia and walnuts are full of omega 3 for heart health. Sprinkle on oatmeal.

[@dalekundtz4603]

Another suggestion for over the seat storage is to take a full size bath towel and sew in compartments for your items and make a pouch at the top to slip over the headrest. Gives you some thing to do in camp...lol.

[@user-bh3ew6ii4g]

I love the vinegar tip! The red cellophane tip too. Red light is also much better for you to be exposed to at night. The white/blue light actually has detrimental effects on us especially at night, and can keep us awake. I use red lights at night because they don't disrupt our melatonin and I am able to sleep better. Grateful for the videos you do. Practical and inspirational.

[@felicefiore6783]

Bob, you really help people who need a roof over their head, with whatever they can afford. 😘

[@OneCrankyFemale]

If people can't find that mesh item with pockets that goes on the back of the seat, they can use a shoe holder that normally hangs on a wall or door.

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

They have bigger ones fore truck seats or tall back van seats at truck stops.

[@silindarobertson8366]

Great idea

[@randzopyr1038]

Also, depending on how many trips you're taking into town, you may just be able to buy fresh and eat fresh right after the trip, run through a bag of ice for 2-3 days, and then eat stable foods until the next trip to the store.

[@veliagarcia3606]

Very proud of her, pray she's safe where ever she goes. Thanks bob.

[@yenhau88]

I am considering living in isolation once my two kids are happily married. I am considering buying a campervan. Vans are not so prominence in their looks and can park anywhere. They don't attract much attention as they look perfectly as a normal vehicle on the road. This channel really teaches me how to survive in this challenging situation; especially when age are catching up on you. I live in Malaysia where there are ample of highway rest-over with decent toilet facilities & greenery parks areas. Thanks, brother! 🙏

[@BruceThomson]

I'm amazed at the genius resourcefulness shown here, optimizing what's available. The best is the deliberate 'attitude', e.g. delighting in successes, and switching attention to getting joy from the natural world and people you meet.

[@mitziesmom]

I'm so glad you said three bursts is the universal sign for needing assistance; I was just starting to train my dog for recall using three short whistles! I'll stop that immediately. Thank you.

[@EvieVermont]

Bob, I like the kindness of your approach and your not assuming everyone can do just anything! Great practical tips given in a giving manner, sometimes with humor- and a little self-deprecating. Like when you say I’m no expert and Let’s talk with so and so, she knows her stuff.

[@AmitSingh-zn1kz]

Those are the exact attributes which make Bob's presentation so captivating and realistic.

[@scoop2591]

I have a Coleman Comfort Smart Camping Cot bought off Amazon. It comes with the mattress and frame folded together in a great 2 peice box. It fits nicely in my CRV with the middle seats folded down, very comfortable to sleep on. Added bonus, it sits 15" off the floor and the sturdy 2 piece box it came in slides underneath to hold a lot of things. I wanted to have the cot elevated so the mattress didn't soak up the cold from the car metal frame. Bought cheap sheets at Walmart synthetic fabric - no cotton, cotton will hold moisture and you'll be cold. All my blankets are synthetic also. I did reenforce the 2 box pieces with tape and then covered the sides with sticky contact paper for added strength. I was very concerned about cold weather but something Bob said in one of his vids was genius...I bought a snow suit. I like the 2 piece. No worries now.

[@davidleigh443]

putting opened mayo in a cool place, not refrigeration is extremely risky! I lost power in my apartment once and put an opened jar of mayo in a cooler with ice. It did not get cold enough-I ended up with food poisoning and a trip to urgent care. A better alternative-if you don't have refrigeration is to buy a box of mayo packets (@500 mayo deli sized packs for about $20).

[@stephyou9]

or use vegan mayo; it has no EGGS. (It's the raw egg in traditional mayo that's dangerous when not kept cold enough!)

[@pamelaanderson8899]

Yes, mayo has to be refrigerated, mayo packets is a great idea.

[@selfesteem3447]

I have kept mayonnaise in a car in the summertime and never got sick and I didn't particularly keep it in a cool place but I didn't keep it on the dash either. If you can keep your mayonnaise in a cooler with ice, even better. For me just paying for mayonnaise in a jar, it's expensive enough. Stick to the smaller jar and you won't have a opened Jar going bad, yet in a shorter span of time as you use it up.

[@waltergreenwood6330]

Mayo does not spoil from storing without refrigeration, that's a myth. The ph is too high. That's why restaurants don't have to keep their mayo refrigerated.

[@willothewispl]

Where can you purchase those little packets of mayo.

[@hellodoggy8688]

Lived in my ext cab pickup for a while. Had to. But had tent camping supplies and would often go to a free camping place way up in the mountains in CA and absolutely loved it. No cell signal or anything, but a beautiful creek, my dog loved it, it was an awesome experience going there several times in the middle of a stressful situation.

[@buddydooley8650]

"I don't play (the harmonica), I just make pretty sounds." Best description of improvising music that I've heard in years.

[@alexistayler6608]

I’m only 49 seconds into this video and I already love her ❤️

[@winebox]

Those Luci lights give off a lot of light. I bought a few for our class c and charge them in the dash during the day. They give off enough for older eyes to comfortably read by and are dimmable.

[@lamarrharding4776]

Used a bed pan when potty training the kids, still using it in my van! With reflection on my windows somebody walked by and said something about a tinfoil hat, next day I tinted my windows. I have a white cover over my windshield, keeps the suns heat outside the car, in winter it prevents scraping ice.

[@karenw8929]

Coleman makes a similar stove that works off of propane and you can get an adaptor to hook it up to a larger propane tank. I use both types of stoves.

[@janehope9730]

I get peppers, onions, carrots, cabbage and yams. Cut them small and season in pan to make soup or water saute. I avoid salt, sugar and oil. If it comes from a factory, I cannot eat it. I find it is much easier to clean up and healthier. Use my instant pot for beans and rice, when I can.

[@barbaragalbreth4429]

It's so nice to see the doggies are on patrol. I love to see all the women traveling with their best friend.

[@duxdawg]

Both vids are good beginners tutorials. Well done! (I've spent eight years living in vehicles, six years out of a backpack.)

[@bobham919]

Bob thanks for your helpful tips. i am not sure if you know or if people think about it but one way to stave off being pushed to life in a car is use these same ideas and techniques for living even in a house. tons of people just waste money electricity and water lots of costly things. learning what you are doing here is valuable for your whole life regardless of where you are.

[@Mntdewmania1]

Been doing research on this lifestyle for months now and I'm am so taken with it. Am coming back to watch some older videos of yours. The more I see, the more I want to know....

[@MoJo7Crow]

I love that! "I live OUT of my car , not IN it."

[@Bearerofwater18]

I stumbled across this video today because i am embarking on this life--the road life starting tomorrow. I am doing research and just want to say, I love that you mention the recession. I was pregnant with my son now almost 12 and it was the most financially emotionally and physically devastating time in my life. So as the world falls apart again, i decided I'm not being stuck with my pants down again. Thanks for the videos!

[@glenmo1]

I own a double burner portable propane stove made by "PRIMUS" my dad purchased in 1972!! I've used it camping with my kids back in 1990s& early 2000s ..it still works beautiful ❤️

[@maryolson3677]

I periodically watch this to remind me.

[@stringbender57]

This essential list is solid gold! You could not have picked a better person to give examples of these necessities than Suanne. I was totally amazed with the video of her showing how she lives in a Prius. The collapsible water bags, putting cereal, rice and oatmeal in zip locks that shrink with usage and the items that are multi-use and collapse to a small size are great even in larger vehicles. Thank you, thank you for putting the 2 videos out there. These are of the utmost importance in suddenly becoming a nomad for those who have no experience! 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks! That was exactly my thinking as well, if you are suddenly forced into a car or van with little money, what MUST you buy?

[@algray2604]

wow bob this young lady could live any where,, people in the need will really get a step up watching this vedio .talk about a helping hand . thank you.

[@rea7203]

For protection as far as sprays go, wasp spray has a stream that goes a pretty good, unlike pepper spray which only help if a predator was within arms reach.

[@Infonetify]

Yes, I carry for this dual purpose, as wasps also prey on camp kitchens.

[@katalynbabe]

Ty

[@astrog8tr]

This is an excellent video (don't NEED to live in car, but I want to see more of the country). I have used gallon slider bags (not ziplock-- must have plastic pull) and put ice in the bags. They do not usually do not break. No water in the bottom of the cooler. Also the water is cold and clean you can drink it.

[@femaletrouble]

Had the same idea. Just wish there were a convenient way to freeze it back up again to make it reusable. I don't want to have to depend on somehow getting access to a freezer.

[@TheTinydogproduction]

Hi Bob, thank you for making these videos. When you said that you had received a lot of letters describing the fear involved with this transition. For every hopeful thought I have about living in my car, a panic sets in almost immediately. Sometimes you just need someone to tell you it's going to be ok. And I thank you for that.

[@doriseguiluz6653]

Me pasa lo mismo el miedo no me deja a tomar la decisión llevo 2 años motivándome he obtenido alguno que otros artículos ,pero manejar rutas largas y no encontrar el sitio adecuado es lo que me impide realizar este gran sueño 😔

[@deborahsnider1125]

My sleeping bag is the best thing ever, I need it to sleep in cold weather. My Clam has become my outside living room. It keeps my group of friends completely comfortable so we can visit.

[@spacetrucker2952]

I have a chevy caprice, on the interstate it's quite economical. I can get over 600 miles on one tank driving between 60 and 65 mph. For a big car that weighs 5026 lbs, that's pretty good. The car is easy to repair, cheap to repair, and very dependable.

[@Jeaniesunshine-fb5rk]

Looks like something I would have done when I was younger. I'm 80 now.

[@MacksellAKQJ109]

Same with me are there any nomads 80+

[@DeadinBlackkkkkk]

Damnnnn

[@tandiparent1906]

​@@MacksellAKQJ109Bob has done several videos with Sr's, talking to them & showing their different homes on wheels.

[@dianaj3139]

@@MacksellAKQJ109 My friend who was 94 when he quit camping did very well... He was a Navy Seal and was at Pearl Harbor during the conflict there many years ago... he always stayed in shape and loved camping... so yeah it can be done!

[@jonnilyn9060]

​@@MacksellAKQJ109lots!!!!

[@clubmike2910]

I always enjoy your videos, very non-confrontational. Just a bunch of suggestions, you always find the interesting people to video. Great job Bob.

[@gitakiss5801]

I have a self inflating mattress too. I got it at an army surplus store. Much cheaper than a camping store. Its perfect for tiny me. Hubby needs 2 lol

[@gitakiss5801]

***** word of advice...don't play with the valve on a subway. People tend to get a little cranks when a mattress springs out of your hands smacking them in the face.

[@sarahferguson0]

Binge watching for inspiration. We already live in an RV so the transition will be easier. My goal is to visit more national parks and our RV is stationary as we've built a deck around it. Anyway. I know there are pros and cons to a cooler but you can eat SO much healthier with a cooler. Those shelf stable foods have very limited nutrition. We do eat those types of meals/food stuffs, but also have fresh veggies/salad and we drink soy milk which stays fresher in the cooler longer than traditional dairy. We also invested in a high quality cooler. Ice lasts much longer. Everyone has to decide what's best for their situation but having access to healthier foods was a must for us.

[@LaneCodeRedCarnivore]

Soy milk yuk ! 😱

[@ericsleith3635]

Thank you Bob! In 2017 I will live out of my car due to the fact that vans/trucks have become so VERY expensive over the past few years...... In part due to low gas prices, I'm guessing it's driven up the prices of vans that you could purchase relatively inexpensively a few years ago. Everything thing has gone up so drastically in price for a variety of economic reasons. You have such a good heart & I can't wait to meet you in person! I will need your guidance as I begin this lifestyle full-time. I also need a "tribe" to belong to......... I will be traveling alone so I need a few good friends that I can count on & they can count of me to help them. I feel so fortunate to have found your channel Bob. I hope you know how much of an inspiration you are to so many of us! This is your purpose & mission. And you do it well. Your love for total strangers is so rare is this harsh world. Happy Holidays my friend! Eric

[@ericsleith3635]

I will join now! Thanks again.

[@AmitSingh-zn1kz]

Great thoughts, Eric. I could not have said it better or more thoroughly. I will repeat the comment/question of SuperDeut4 below: "How is it going? Did you set out for this lifestyle? Did you find a tribe? I hope you are happy." Thanks.

[@catherinemartinez2971]

D

[@aevalatmidnight2]

Fantastic Suzanne. You are doing a lot teaching people to exist in our uncertain world. Not only that but you make it look very good .

[@thizizliz]

I've watched this a couple of times over the years & love how ahe keeps providing alternatives to WM! There are better places to shop without spending more so good for her.

[@anitavaughn1968]

When i was in the Marine Corps i had a burlap water bag that i took out with me. I would soak it, fill it with water, leave it outside. After a while i had cold water.

[@paintedwings74]

Dang, it's so wonderful to hear from you two, because you're not just doing a basics thing, you're INTELLIGENT, lol! Knowing things like the red-light being less visible, I can tell you've really paid attention as you moved through your personal learning curve. Thanks so much!

[@kencarey3477]

This lady knows her stuff! I have camped in my prius for 2.5 months in north west. I learned a lot from this video

[@carolynm8421]

I mean this as a compliment, Bob reminds me of Grizzly Adams who has decided to help people live smaller, more environmentally conscious lives all while finding their way into harmony with the natural world.

[@reginarowe1455]

I love the tip on cleaning with vinegar. : )

[@yannigirl1]

Me too! I had no idea that you didn't have to use soap and water in order for it to be safe to eat out of again. I mean, I've always known that I could clean general things with vinegar, but I didn't know that it would actually disinfect. I'm learning so much from watching these video's. I have a Prius and dream of living this way. Maybe some day.

[@brucesmith9144]

wash your jeans with vinegar and they last longer.

[@mont5584]

After every shower vinegar all around my toes to dry them quicker and to bacterialize them. Always beautiful and white!

[@cruisepaige]

Bob is so awesome helping people.

[@gordonphillips7229]

@@mont5584 With comments like that, the message would seem to be that camping/outdoor living is only for whites....

[@23Brettski]

I used to get free ice at Motel machines in town... FREE ICE and they never mind!

[@rayguzman9507]

My pops does that and he's not homeless or van living ha

[@Bill-xx2yh]

As a Christian and Dead Head, LOVE YOUR SYF.. my church has no, understanding of that. Good to see

[@skwerl81]

Do you just put it in a big plastic garbage bag? 🤔

[@23Brettski]

@@skwerl81 I did!

[@skwerl81]

@@23Brettski thank you!!

[@out-n-about]

Stainless steel water bottle filled with ice...chills quickly, no mess and water available when ice gas melted. Also, fill with hot water, put a sock or 2 over it, seal well = hot water bottle and drinkable water when cool 😉

[@gailasgreatdanesandmanes1042]

I remember the day you posted this! It's been a minute! I was so inspired by Sue!!! 💓

[@nwideyedwonder683]

I've watched this a long time ago and now..I'm back never get tired of these! So informative and encouraging. I'm looking at a Prius for my next car camping venture🥰Thank you...Love Suanne's setup

[@Bill-NM]

Maybe someone else mentioned this, but a Prius can keep you cool for 8 hours on less than a 1/2 gallon of gasoline. Not sure about heat, but I'm guessing the same or not much more. Obviously it's not ideal - but it's not bad, esp for those really warm nights. For reference, the average car idles at about 2-3 gallons per 8 hours.

[@BDX2BDX2]

Great Video !!!! I have found that leather welding gloves have many uses, you can even pick up burning logs to rearrange a fire, hot utensils, use as work gloves, great all around protection, etc. Buy in a 3 pair pack at a welding supply shop for around 25/30 dollars.

[@STScott-qo4pw]

Can you get them at Lowe's or tru-value?

[@snowfox5280]

I love how you say For Um. It's such a traditional way of speaking. Love it! @ 17:00

[@matthewronsson]

I bought some small clip-on headlights at Wally World for $1.00 each it has 3 LED's that also has a 'swivel' adjustment (up and down) built into it. It's single mode (on/off) but surprisingly bright vs (5 mode) option on the energizer. The Energizer's spot (focus) feature is practical for working in the dark on a specific area (like under a hood), but most of us never use all the other modes available on modern flashlights. The batteries in the generic unit can also be replaced (annoying use of a tiny screw on both of these units battery covers) but one need not worry about the cost of replacement ($18.00) of the Energizer light if lost or damaged, which is also relatively awkward and bulky of . Nobody wants to walk around with that strapped to their foreheads. They'd be more for emergency situations and one would have to go and get it. These little no-brand lamps will illuminate any routine/general need that may arise and are always on hand, at least for those of us who normally wear a hat-fairly inconspicuously. They take up very little space, don't get in the way and have almost no weight at all to them. This little cheapie will be there to help you find where you left that energizer headlamp :)

[@user-vz3nh3co6y]

With the butane, should be stored in a sealed container, small cooler. You don't want exploding butane in a hot car. Love your vids.

[@morecoleslaw6543]

Ha,I love how the dog shows a bit of the rundown on the environment there 😂😆

[@glenmo1]

Great video .. I'd say invest in a gazelle or clam type canopy with the screening and possibly add the sidewalls.. you will have a dry comfortable mosquito bug free living room

[@BaconNBeer]

I was just at the RTR and was surprised at the number of people using a Class P RV. Class P is a Prius btw.

[@CheapRVliving]

And they typically love it!

[@richardkaltenbach3961]

BaconNBeer I Have A Class GM RV. That Is GEO METRO!! So There! Haha!

[@cruisepaige]

Richard Kaltenbach Tha’s awesome, how’s it going, Richard?

[@priscillawrites6685]

Army Surplus stores have a lot of supplies. Also hunting supply stores.

[@dottiec8002]

I camp in my van and I find S hooks handy for hanging things when I'm parked.

[@CheapRVliving]

Great tip, thanks!

[@serenakoleno9338]

Yes, I used them at planet fitness on shower rods. You can hang a bag with shower stuff , wallet, eyeglasses, keys, phone, etc. Even your clothes if you don't want to leave them in the change area. Just find a waterproof bag with cord to hang. The shower with a flip seat and hand held shower keeps from getting wet up high.

[@MegaReception1]

I've always wondered why people living in a small cars hardly ever have roof racks you can store so much up there , and tie tarps or even put a tarp over the car and the air flow between the space between the roof and the top of the rack will cool off your vehicle. You can even have a water tank with a hose a gravity system to shower and clean yourself.

[@Radnally]

I lived in my Honda Civic for a couple of months. It was not bad. These are great tips. Thank you.

[@CheapRVliving]

Radnally, thanks for sharing!

[@justynamaria0333]

Hatchback or coupe?

[@IrishMorgenstern]

I lived out of my 00 Civic Coupe. It was a bit clunky but doable.

[@t.terrell7037]

@@CheapRVlivingHi Bob! I want to thank you for creating such quality, informative content over the years. I’ve been watching you since 2016 and thought that I was on my way to van dwelling at least for a time but had some challenges…first van paid cash-transmission died, 2nd van( had a good out bed)- someone stole the catalytic converter, now I’m in an older vehicle but I d like a van for this purpose. Was in a fire in 2022 spent most of year recovering and lost everything in fire except phone and my car. Slowly getting back to me but the desire still lingers for this life style. Thought about adding a hitch to my Cruiser but it’s pretty old(05) and then buying a travel trailer ( tiny one) but the hooking up part I assumed needed to be done by a man since it requires a lot of muscle, then I thought, just do a van and build out but since Covid they are now sky high. So when people keep saying “You can find a van for 3k or so” where are people finding these deals. To start I’d be stationary with a home base, for now, and I’d still be working and then travel on weekends and holidays but I’d like to find something to live in full time and there seem to be so many options but each seems to also have drawbacks. What advice would you give to a single middle aged female who wants to live a nomadic lifestyle, whether temporarily or permanently, and what “rig” or set up would you ideally recommend? My dream is to have a tiny/tinier home on my own land. But I want a home that is hooked up to plumbing and electricity or I’d want to learn how to live off grid/homesteading perhaps. Some people just take their small RV or trailer and put it on their land and that’s it. I want you to know that I am grateful for the info that you share, the hope and grace that you give to those going through challenging situations and I hope you continue making videos about alternative, safe permanent housing options for people from all walks of life. God bless you!!

[@robertschulke1596]

Look into “rocket stoves”. Folding ones fit in a very small, light package. The big deal is that you can burn whatever clean fuel you can find. A fistful of sticks, cardboard, or twisted paper will cook a meal. Wipe up cooking grease with paper, and burn it. Dip sticks or kindling in bacon fat, and it will burn quite well.

[@ParArdua]

Thankyou Sue-Anne, your intelligent and resourceful solutions has allowed me to begin to start to organise a "Just in case" essentials pack. Times are about to get tough again, and having a Plan B and Plan C takes the stress of panicking about not knowing and thinking the worst.

[@esotericsolitaire]

This speaks to me since I've been thinking about seeing the national parks for four years. Thanks, Sue, for the inspiration.

[@celestialstarseed111]

I’d love to visit all the national parks in America. It’s been my dream since I can remember.

[@Radnally]

Pots, pans, utensils and clothes...I buy them all at the goodwill. Super cheap and easy. HF for tools and certain truck accessories. Craigslist for almost anything. Outfitting my rig by buying used was very economical.

[@eileenl564]

Remember, must avoid aluminum. Gets into the brain. Very bad for you. Stick with iron, stainless steel glass or ceramic cookware, no matter what. Cheaper stuff at goodwill will cost you your health if not aware of ramifications of using such. Had to detox it and repair my brain afterwards from aluminum. Eating raw fresh walnuts helps with such repairs. Nuts should be in everyone's diet. Notice never mentioned in any vids. Looks like people eating really bad for you toxic stuff. Shorter life spans that way. Stay away from processed gmo foods. Period. Not worth it to eat, even with car living. Yes, if starving, otherwise do not touch.

[@clawhammer704]

Smart thinking...I'm going to follow ur route.

[@janetkoball44]

Thanks Bob and Sue Ann for a great video

[@marcomac8824]

Thanks Bob - love having Suzanne on your show, great tips for the car camping novice!

[@VoIPPortland]

Did it for a year when I was 20 in a VW Van and two dogs up and down Cali beaches (1980). Now 40 years later close to ready to do it again. Close to retirement why not? Was the happiest time of my life. Of course Social Security won't probably even be a thing the way things are going, so the next 5 years will be interesting. STUDYING van life all over again.

[@johnwang9914]

The Prius is an interesting car as except for the first generation sold in North America, the AC and heater works entirely off battery power. The engine does start up to recharge the batteries when the charge level gets too low but it's quite conceivable to operate the HVAC entirely without the engine on.

[@freetasman2342]

Regarding the stove it is very important to not use a pan or pot with a diameter bigger than the trivet. If it is bigger and pert of it cover the gas bottle compartment there is the possibility of an explosion. I do not how tough are the standards in USA but here in Australia several dozens of brands of that type of stove are not longer permitted to be imported. For reference of the readers I put the following link: www.elgas.com.au/blog/1461-accc-recalls-portable-butane-stove-cookers-lunchbox-cookers Regarding conserving eggs cover them with Vaseline or duck fat, what ever is cheaper.

[@freetasman2342]

Bob, if there is a tiny bit more of room my recommendation is instead of having a common pot have a pressure cooker, the ones that it can be left with the pressure on until it come down and left the food inside in a vacuum form. So long the pot it is not opened the food will last. Pressure cooking take less time than the normal way. In winter, wen the weather it terrible and eating well it is essential dried fruits and nuts will be the "super food" to have. Also do not forget the dehydrated food packs that are used by the army. Just add water and done and take very little space. www.walmart.com/c/kp/freeze-dried-foods Cheers

[@yannigirl1]

Great ideas! Thanks!

[@jeffmcgough7664]

I second the pressure cooker. We can do our entire roast, veggies, fruit, rice quinoa in a pressure cooker...and fast, even with a compact rocket stove. And it holds spices, silverware, etc when packed up. Eggs are not normally refrigerated outside north america. But, if you buy them refrigerated, they must stay refrigerated. Buy farm eggs direct whenever possible.

[@jeffmcgough7664]

Be still my Heart? You have two pressure cookers? I'm jealous!!

[@wildman6247]

eggs will last longer if stored n water keeps air off of them will last a couple weeks this is a way they were stored before refrigeration

[@promotolife3783]

Thanks Bob. Great video. Particularly like the food storage bit. I wonder if you could cover dealing with trash? Ive watched tons of videos from everyone and no one ever mentions it. Just a thought. Thank you!

[@beanshooter5784]

12v plugin coolers. no need to buy ice. larger initial investment but worth it if you have the coin

[@cruisepaige]

Thrift shop! $20!!!

[@solooverland3666]

@Map115 Depends. I’ve used an Alpicool 20 for almost 2 years, no issues

[@t.terrell7037]

Does it drain battery a lot and do I plug straight into an inverter? Thanks

[@shortandresourceful6242]

I splurge on freeze dried vegetable soup...healthier than canned

[@MrBoxofplastic]

Ice is $6 now for a 20 lb bag!! It is a huge hustle as well

[@Jessjustleft]

Pro tip..... lawn chair topper for a matrices to fit in the back seat. $20 Walmart

[@yes55504]

Pro tip. It's spelled mattress.

[@DavidGodley-n6j]

I’m using a queen size topper and I cut it in half. Over that I’m using a Coleman sleeping bag. I have a hatchet and a small shovel. For cooking I use a single burner butane stove. I buy the butane by the case from Amazon. Sporting goods stores also carry the butane as well as Walmart. Baby wipes can help you stay clean.

[@resinapparelco433]

Great video! With all the lockdowns going on and everybody getting stimulus checks it seems like the perfect time to realize my dream. Considering trading my car in for a cube van and just doing it!

[@laurencegoldman4639]

I would like to see a list of price points (what you can expect to get for what price) for RV conversion builds. From nothing except the vehicle (I'm looking at Box truck or Ambulance) to High end everything: Solar package with bank of BattleBorn LiPo Batts, Best Inverter, MPPWhatever controller, Water system, Nature's Head composting toilet, Good heater, Max Air fan, All the wiring, Window AC, High end Wifi configuration, Kitchen (sink, counter, on demand hot water) and bed construction. What do actual people actually spend to get their rigs so they're happy full time living in rig?

[@bjnz4328]

I've had a lot of trouble tracking down those butane gas stove cartridges and found the best place to get them is at Asian grocery stores.

[@Mhel2023]

Yup, $4.99 for a 4-pack

[@lauraslanesvanlifetravels]

I bought a portable plug in stove (2 burners) that was fairly slim years ago. I see everyone buying these butane stoves but I'm not sure why? I know i will use some power from using it but since I won't be cooking all the time, I decided to stay w/what I bought. I also didn't want to deal w/the fire aspects and buying butane/propane all the time. This way I know I can use my stove as long as i have power. I bought 3 sources of power (2 that are solar) on top of whatever I get from using my car. I also didn't want to worry about starting any forest fires.

[@WendyWilliamsLiving]

Suanne is terrific, and I love her blog! Fantastic lady, and I'm so glad to see you both in this great video!

[@ThisWomansBrain]

Wendy Williams what is her blog?

[@tracyhennessey4451]

People are also using bigger pillow cases with zippers and putting their off-season cloth materials in it and using them for pillow and back rest in van.

[@isapsa45]

I’m looking at everything that she has and I’m thinking that a person that is an avid backpack or in hikes the big trails all the time only carries about 20 pounds worth of stuff they have everything they need to cook their food and sleep and changes of clothes. It seems to me that one could live out of a backpack on the road.

[@TJStellmach]

Biggest difference I can see is hygiene. Backpacking, you're often in areas where it's acceptable to just bury your waste. Plus body odors are less of a social issue in the backcountry. But I think you're still right, a seasoned backpacker could be very comfortable living out of a car.

[@elainegoolsby9902]

I'm with you, I don't need a lot of stuff. Travel light, bare essentials, and I sure don't need a TV, computer, and such, even if I were in a van, but I just do tent and car!

[@annettesmith6241]

This was a really honest and informative video. Excellent information for people who want to travel but also for people who have no choice but to sleep in their car. Thank you.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for watching Annette, it was our pleasure.

[@joelanderson5287]

Getting ready to do it . Just put on disability. A small stipend but enough .Getting ready to put a rig together and take off. Take off because i want, not have to. I've always suffered or enjoyed wanderlust. the compulsion to see whats around the next next corner or over the next hill. Hope to run into you (lol, meet you) on the road one day . I enjoy your videos.

[@free2bwild913]

Joel Anderson reading this 2 years later. How did it go?

[@serenakoleno9338]

Didn't know that butane stove can't be used below freezing. You saved me from making a mistake, grateful! Now I have to figure out where to put a large propane tank. Will start of with small 1 lbs but want to design for future upgrades.

[@jocar3234]

Prius, it is tiny I do OK in my kia soul( back seats down/front pulled totally forward gives 8 ft. by 7 ft by 48 inches in height) for fishing like a week, Prius for my size and my best 4 legged friend could be a problem, then again its the best for using battery since its like a little generator. Great video many useful hints. Thank you