Van Life 101: How to Cook When Living in a Van

[@Cisnell70]

I'm so tired of paying half of my monthly disability check just for a small tiny apartment where my neighbors are not always nice. I'm now educating myself on living a "gypsy life" and I'm thinking to start out a 2 room cabin tent would be my best option, with emergency sleeping being in my car. I love travel, always have, and would like to finish my life exploring our amazingly beautiful nation!

[@62WILDCAT]

Me too. I could start in a tent. If I do that ,I'm thinking to ranch in Arizona that Bob did the video on , for the Winter. I'd find a van to make comfortable then to travel in higher elevations for summer. My car is a Toyota convertible ,so I'm not sure about sleeping in it.

[@skipperrussell2025]

I hear you. I've been thinking about the same thing. How are you doing now?

[@Cisnell70]

@@skipperrussell2025 I'm heading into a travel trailer and truck. Had the car/ tent for a year, a big ass dodge van for a year, and now I want the comfort of a trailer and the portability of a truck. I'm either moving up or not as comfortable as others in vehicles. (I really miss indoor plumbing!!)

[@magpyeminifree5612]

Hi, Bob. I don't think you mentioned the dog tongue pre-wash for your dishes. My cat refuses to co-operate so I use a spray bottle of Dr Bronner's Pure Castile Soap mixed with water. It's so convenient that I use it my house as well.

[@servicedogchopper7613]

Started to live in a van in order to still care for the ex wife and kids. That's admirable. Having PTSD due to childhood neglect and abuse, I find that amazingly admireable. I don't know why so many tend to bad talk about you. You are here helping people still. So what if you make money from it! We all need to make money. You are helping people nonetheless. I find you an admireable and amazing man! Please know that!

[@servicedogchopper7613]

ICU8 12 Nope, didnt see that until you pointed it out. Doesnt the bottom of pans get dark once used? The small pan looks bran new and unused. But, he did say he does most cooking by microwave thus don't really use these pans. He said the copper one was part of a set. Maybe he used a different one at his mom's to know he loves them and then measured out the space on this one which then allowed him to learn how much it'll fit?

[@travelinmyblood]

Bob was just in Oregon spending time with his Mom, who is not well. He said she bought a set of them. I assume he then went out and bought one for himself, when he was leaving Oregon. Also, Bob is being filmed for various shows, and has indicated that he cleaned up his van for filming. Perhaps his pots needed to be updated. Teflon pots need to be replaced regularly. I don't know, but it's possible, so I try not to judge.

[@servicedogchopper7613]

travelinmyblood Agreed! I get sick of people not asking and just assuming crap about me and Chopper so i try not to do that to others!

[@rooterann3754]

Servie Dog In Training Chopper

[@darlenefitzgerald4371]

I took it SHE got a SET & Maybe Didn’t Need that Huge one & GAVE IT TO HIM

[@kathymack3791]

Hey Bob - great tips. As for the sanitizing spray, it's a bit pricey for what you get. After I bought a bottle of it (years ago), I started refilling if with my own mix. Basically a 10:1 ratio (10 parts water to one part bleach). A quart of pure bleach (be sure you don't get scented or the no splash type) will last you a very long time. And, the benefit of having a bottle of bleach around is you can make stronger solution - say for disinfecting your poo bucket or soaking white linens or clothing.

[@chrusb7765]

I love the vodka in a spray bottle, is it one squirt for the pan, three squirts for me? Hahaha

[@jamierupert7563]

Lol

[@NWforager]

just a fyi , Dollar Store MouthWash is WAY cheaper . its over 50 proof (dont drink it of course)

[@jborrego2406]

NWforager what a mouth wash is 50 proof

[@cheath8705]

@@NWforager I wouldn't want to have mouthwash flavored food. ;)

[@lilycherkaoui5423]

Like when Julia Child's cooked. Heck she would burn down the van. Lol

[@nickallen419]

None of us are getting out alive so do what works for you is all you can do.

[@paulmood308]

So true. 👍🏻

[@TwoMeander]

Debra here ... been cooking in my van ever since you went shopping with me in Flagstaff a few years ago to buy my first stove! Thank you, Bob.

[@e.s.l5861]

Haha I guess the World Wide Web is a small place, I am in flag right now

[@beebeemilo2024]

What kind of stove you are using?

[@jackiem1093]

I may be off to Texas to buy a converted Element...if everything works out on Tuesday morning⚛️

[@jackiem1093]

This is an old post; didn't work out😥 Maybe I'll get to buy an Astro van this weekend if I sell the rest of my stuff and thus make the money to buy the van🙏

[@joniloverin7343]

Been cooking inside with propane inside for many many yrs. and never think twice about it. I only wipe mine out with a bandana once usually and its good for me, I figure each time I cook it heats and kills anything in there. I use the spray bottle and its great. And thanks to your past videos, I now use a one burner to heat and cook! Thanks Bob, you surely made my life easier and one less item in my tiny space!

[@alchemist-1011]

The only reason Bob can cook in his van is because he is a Wizard, he has magical powers.

[@alchemist-1011]

Bob is the best! I've learned so much from the Wizard

[@livefreeordie4850]

Off the grid, yes same here

[@KellyS_77]

You're right about the magical powers, but he's not a Wizard, he's Santa Claus.

[@lilycherkaoui5423]

He's so laid back.

[@kevinjudy2210]

DUMBLEDORE van life!

[@jomomma1512]

I am looking forward to one day being a nomad. I can never get rid of my cast iron! I'm an old school hill billy lady & we have all been taught that all gals need iron skillet for cooking due to monthly issues. Otherwise, we will need supplements & whatnot. Best to add the iron to our diets the old school way.

[@62WILDCAT]

I'll always keep my medium size cast iron skillet & small Dutch oven LE CRUSET ( cast iron coated with enamel )

[@garygary2250]

Great job, thanks for the informative video,, I cook in my room I rent with a single burner camp stove, I have the window open of course, plus I'm careful with this cooker to,, I have the slipstone pots and pans that don't give off fumes,, I love to cook just like you,, keep up the great videos of your travels,,..ps: the money I save cooking for myself instead of going to restaurants is mind boggling, thanks again,,,,, gary gary

[@samlsd9711]

"I have magical powers" Ok Santa.I believe you.

[@fladesignergirl]

Wow! you cut your beard, it looks so good you look 10 years younger.

[@RobertLinthicum]

People who have beards should keep them.

[@carlarnett8634]

Funny you made this video I've been cooking this way in my pickup truck for the last several months. I modified my truck so I have a bed cabinets and a small table to cook and eat on. I have one of those little cheap Coleman coffee pot burner for my stove. Anyway I seen you really liked the copper cooking pan well Walmart has a copper panni maker basically two small pans clamp together and that thing make great grilled cheese or sandwiches. But after I clean the copper pans I have I put a dab of olive oil on them and spread with a paper towel. This helps protect the pans finish and also makes clean up a lot easier. Also thanks for all the videos I think I may even have my wife convinced after seeing your videos that we don't need a house payment anymore, she let me get a used camper and we are going to be moving into it soon. I've been used to this life for most of 8 years I haul campers from the manufacturer to the dealership so most of the time I'm living in my pickup truck. Well I'll quit rambling thanks again for all the videos.

[@marthakarcher4066]

,

[@danajohnson3799]

A quart of Vodka would not last past the first dish in my van.

[@joehawboldt5415]

Dana Johnson AA

[@beckyspindler2153]

I just love your laughter about your magical powers ! And I love the idea of going camping For the rest of my life

[@carolthacker7776]

Instead of buying Pam try mixing up your own spray oil. Use 1 cup of water to 1/4 cup of your favorite oil in a spray bottle. It works just as well and doesn't have all the additives as the spray cans, it's also a lot cheaper.

[@melissahoffman4687]

Heat resistant glass cookware is also handy. Glass is the healthiest cookware out there. Give it a try if you want to. :)

[@KenWPeek]

If you have the electrical system that can support it, an induction cooktop (IKEA) and a small "InstaPot" (Walmart/Amazon) will also work well-- just make sure your pots and pans will work with an induction cooktop-- (check them with a magnet-- if the magnet is attracted to the bottom, it will work). I like this idea, because I would not then need to have propane, and all of the issues that go with that.

[@anonymixx8106]

What electrical system do you recommend? I'm upgrading to a van eventually so don't mind going big. Was thinking to start with one panel and one battery, maybe add some on as I go.

[@starblazer64]

Hello Bob! I ordered your book today How to Live in a Van. I've lived in vehicles for most of my life. No kidding. I drove a semi truck for almost 30 years and lived in a truck for the most part. So naturally I've picked up some knowledge. But I am always open minded and realize there's almost certainly new information out there. Since I have been watching your channel for quite a while I've even learned a few things... Like if I cook in my van I will almost certainly die! ;-) Thanks for your enjoyable and knowledgeable videos!

[@ronaldwilkes1814]

"you will almost certainly die..." ROFL!!

[@emdee7744]

Ah, ain't we all gonna die....someday. Like they say, nobody gets out alive.

[@blue-bunny]

Although I prefer an alcohol stove for indoor use, I do not recommend strong alcohol on a paper towel as a cleaner. Unintended Alcohol fires are often invisible, even in relatively low light. A clean fuel, but has this dangerous downside.

[@stuartskrabec1156]

I used a coleman 2 burner camp stove attached similarly to a large standard propane tank when I lived in my garage. Its cheap and efficient

[@jilliand6591]

I wouldn't recommend using vodka for cleaning as you could be hit with an open container if you're stopped by police.

[@Wanna.Wander]

Jillian D how does this play out though when you live in your vehicle? There’s got to be a defense there is think

[@jamierupert7563]

@@mikemead2315 Where do you live that open containers apply to passenger also because I've never heard if that before? Just curious. Thanks in advance

[@occipitalneuralgia2339]

Mike Mead you correct. I used to teach remedial drivers ed classes to court mandated people with DUIs. I did hear some of their stories-people arrested for open containers lying in back seats and not near the driver. People get DUIS in many ways, and some of it defies sense.

[@aseriesoftoobs]

This is from Washington state, my understanding is that most states have similar laws. "Alcoholic beverages-Drinking or open container in vehicle on highway-Exceptions." "(4) This section does not apply to a public conveyance that has been commercially chartered for group use or to the living quarters of a motor home or camper ... PROVIDED, That nothing in this subsection shall be construed to authorize possession or consumption of an alcoholic beverage by the operator of any vehicle while upon a highway." So as explained to me, by an attorney, the "living quarters" is pretty much any part of the RV not within arm's reach of the driver's seat.

[@williambranham6249]

Pour the vodka in a spray bottle. Problem solved. We sometimes think to hard about what might happen rather than how to solve a problem.

[@shess1640]

Can’t wait to see more in this series! Great video....big hug to you Bob.

[@p.c.matthews2653]

Put a little water and reheat the pan after your cleaning and it will be sterile.

[@melissahoffman4687]

My family and I have the same ceramic coating copper looking pan. I love that it mimics a pot and pan all in one. You can boil water and it, and fry food with it. It does both perfectly! :)

[@btpuppy2]

Can you tell me the brand of the copper pot that you have like Bob Wells’ pot?

[@sylviaann69]

Hi Bob, Just want to say you are an amazing man that inspires me to find me a rig, I hope I can make it to the RTR. I just want to be happy & enjoy the rest of my life. Thank you so much for your so helpful videos.Take care hope to meet you one day!!!!!!!

[@louisemissouri4410]

Bacteria can not live without moisture. That's why wood cutting boards are recommended as they dry out even in the cut marks, where plastic doesn't. I've cleaned with vinegar for years. Great info. Thanks Bob

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@chapter4travels its actually been proven. Moisture sits in plastic in the cracks along with food particles for far longer. Its why chefs use mainly wood.

[@asad5067]

i remember CSPI and nutrition action talking about this.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Yes, I agree, got a great medium size bamboo board from Aldi's and love it. I knew a chef who ranted against restaurant rules that mandate plastic instead. It is not healthy to use. And dulls knives. If you do use them, clean with baking soda and vinegar or buy a spray bottle of peroxide at dollar tree. You can take a blade and periodically scrape excess plastic from cuts off. My plastic boards are badly stained. If stains get in, why not bacteria? Wood board can be sanded.

[@SB_whatevers]

@@serenakoleno9338 plastic doesn't dull knives, bamboo does. Bamboo is a grass so it has silica within its structure, which makes it incredibly hard. This is why bamboo is able to grow so tall. Silica is like glass, so it damages/scratches knife edges. Plastics are soft...very soft and this is why when you use a knife on plastic, you make gouges in it.

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

I have the Insta Pot" its great. You can cooks hundreds of meals, even cook bread in it (-: love watching your videos, very informative. Im waiting on SSI, then im hitting the road. (-:

[@Wildersport]

While I don't live in a van (yet), but I do camp, a LOT... I use a Texsport 6 pc family nesting cook set. 1qt pot with lid, 3 qt pot with lid, and a 6 qt pot with a convertible lid, skillet. I also use cast iron. Cast iron double sided griddle, 12" dutch oven, and 10" skillet. Serves all of my cooking needs fantastically.

[@NomadicRVLiving]

I have a lot to learn since I never have camped and cooked outdoors. Thanks for the videos.

[@curtjackson5052]

GREAT .. I'm getting ready for the road .. Van or Suburban, just not sure yet .. I see all builds with a Sink & none big enough for much & sure can't take a bath in it. So NOW no sink😊 Winter in AZ, NM or TX can be cold & windy .. Outside Showers, just not 4 me in that weather & driving 30 miles into town seems a waist of time & $ .. not sure what the answer is &

[@kenengland3700]

Wipe your dishes down with a mixture of water and bleach. A sanitizing solution. Required by law in restaurants, deli counters, etc.

[@karenrobinson921]

I love watching your channel, have been saving your videos, taking notes and look forward to the day I can join the on the road group. Thank you 😊

[@BB-pc3kg]

Great video, I love to take my insta pot camping. I am not full time yet. But the insta pot lets me plug in at rest stops for 3 to 30 minutes and have a great meal. I love the spray bottle of Vodca idea as well.

[@serenakoleno9338]

Where are outlets to plug it in at rest stops? I have a new one I planned to take, thinking to use if I have shore power or find a park with a pavilion.

[@btpuppy2]

There is no link or brand name for the square copper pot you have - can you help identify it?

[@shirleyfrederickson4794]

Your big square one with the ceramic looks like Panderno cookware. I have a huge round one and love it so much! Am definitely taking it with me in the van 😊

[@seanmckee8106]

Yes Bob, you have magical powers, you are the RV Wizard!

[@fancybantams]

I haven't seen anyone solar cooking. I solar cook all summer where I live. You can cook and bake anything with no heat.

[@dianeibsen5994]

Thank you Bob💝 Can I come and cook for you?💗 appreciate you talking about the pressure cooker. I have an instant pot I really enjoy. Also colloidal silver is excellent, toxic-free and non gmo for antiseptic/antibacterial. Also great for cuts, mouthwash, can be ingested for boosting the immune system. An amazing product. There are ways you can make your own as well.

[@bettywith2girls]

Pam on the Lam has a 12 volt plug-in Road Pro frying pan for, I think, around $30 or so. She just cooks on a board or stand on her passenger seat and runs the car the 5 or 10 min. it takes to cook anything (maybe drive somewhere she has to go anyway to simmer), and she is done. The pan is as large as your square pan, Bob, so she can cook several portions to eat later or to share. She also has a Road Pro small oven too (same plug-in and price) she uses a lot. Great video, tho, Bob. Lots of options.

[@elsiegisella]

Betty Smith you can also get a 12 volt whirlpool truck microwave

[@livefreeordie4850]

Betty great idea

[@DanjaZone]

I'm desperate, DESPERATE to hit the road...I don't have a van or rv. I guess I'll have to wait🤦🏼🤔😬 ever sick of society?! I'm there!

[@rooterann3754]

ME TOO BUT LIKE Y NO TRANSPORTATION .AND MY AGE WORRIES ME.I HAVE DECIDED TO START NEX.MO SAVE MONEY,I'D LIKE AN OLDER VAN AN DO INSIDE MYSELF.MY CONFIDENCE IS NOT THAT GREAT BUT I'M WORKIN ON IT.IT WOULD BE A GOOD ADVENTURE WOULDN'T IT!

[@anonymixx8106]

You can do it in a small SUV or even prius

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

Waiting on ssi, i have a extera 4x4. Need a couple of solar pannels on top . Have a pistol , fishing pole. Ill never starve (-:

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

I should have disability income before this year is out. The solar stuff is exspensive. Im lookung at close to $3000. Fore a decent set up.. the solar fridge i wont is around $700.00. And, a tiny camper to drag around just to sleep in. , then ill be free to go wherever. Do little odd jobs fore extra money. Im waiting on the next stimulus check to buy part of what i need. Id like to leave wyoming before winter gets here. (-:

[@Vera-dc7my]

God bless you. Using all the toxic things. You should love and respect your body. I am just saying it out of care.

[@donnadavis453]

Why not just have one bottle with a mix of dish soap and then another with just plain water.

[@batki2596]

Great advice. It's funny how a person can make life so hard when cleaning like this is simple, quick and effective. I'm looking at my sink now, in my sticks and bricks and rolling my eyes at all the fussing. Love your videos. Eye opening. Blessings

[@dyvel]

The French has cooked in vans for ages! They even have a dish to celebrate it - "cook au van".

[@buddette3308]

Bob time to write a cook book titled Cooking in van with Bob Wells.

[@frankatstarisland4732]

Great video Bob.I'm putting together a weekender minimalist van setting up the galley has been a lot of fun so far some homemade burgers just great am looking forward to a deeper meal, 16 years that's incredible!

[@LollyGaggler]

I have been watching these videos from my desk at work for a year..I now have a 2018 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van...I still have to work mon-fri...but my adventures have increased....Someday fulltimer I will be

[@diloo1861]

Micro wave kills your food!!! Please use an oven..it takes longer but you live longer aswell !!! Wish you all the luck in the world sweetheart!!!

[@TheFamilytime3]

Bob..love every one of your vlogs..so much information.. all in the name life. love. And happiness..working on getting on the road...your friends Dan&Christy..great job..

[@rickyrogerz666]

The fact is: People DO DIE from co poisoning from cooking inside. Use a CO detector!, it's a cheap common sense precaution. Why would you not advise people to do that, Bob?

[@livefreeordie4850]

Quin I know about the CO protector but where do I get a separate gas detector, like for vehicle gas fumes, is that what you're talking about?

[@margaretjones2055]

cook outdoors simpler if there are spills.

[@philcapling8268]

Excellent video, Bob! I’ve used white vinegar in a spray bottle for cleaning and it really works well. Your approach is spot on! And, I have a couple of copper chef pans-they are simply fantastic and clean up so easily. Instant Pot (pressure cookers) are wonderful. A 6 qt. Instant Pot and recipes on KZbin are rampant-they work great! Thanks for all you do for all of us on your channel!

[@GroovyVideo2]

I have the same stove - I wrapped the steel rods where pan sits with Aluminum wire to make it less slippery so pan does not slide around - works well - yup wiping pans is way to go

[@jannwebb]

GroovyVideo2 Where do we get aluminum wire? Not familiar

[@GroovyVideo2]

I used TIG aluminum welding rod - worked well

[@jackarrow-journal5317]

does anyone know if bleach / vinegar / alcohol can react with the plastic bottle causing plastic leaking into the bottle? thanks !!!

[@jackarrow-journal5317]

Hey that's me from the past

[@josephinefaithgibbs9353]

The spray bottle cleanup system is brilliant! I've often just wiped pans out with paper towels when camping, but this takes it to the next level and makes it a "real" clean instead of a stop gap until I get to running water. Thank you!

[@VanGoWanderlust]

I only wash my pans at home maybe every other week, never had a problem. I just heat the pot or pan before putting food in it and any bacteria will die. Similar to how you use a grill. No one is using soap and water on a bbq grill.

[@VanGoWanderlust]

That being said, I might have magical powers too.

[@barbarakuhn3239]

Yeah I have that square pan that you have I love it I do all my cooking and that

[@katzperson2089]

Expenses:. Water $10. Cleaners $6., Paper towels $589. Ha ha, just joking

[@SSandtheRVCats]

Whether it's in a van, truck camper, or fifth wheel this is an awesome topic. Thanks as always for sharing Bob.

[@abcxyz3603]

Thank you for another interesting video and for inviting me into your van to see how you cook. I do enjoy seeing how van dwellers go about their day to day business. My only concern about cooking in a small place is how to cope with condensation - ventilation must be stressed here. Thanks again from a house dweller, I always pick up some useful tips and tricks.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

For me, the ceramic pan worked for about a year then food started to stick. Propane cooking in an insulated low top van generates enough heat to where I need to open doors and windows.

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

I was being generous with the time. Mine was probably more like 6 months, and I did not scrub it with anything harsh. I have the T-fal's and they have not been a problem, (no chips or pealing). I was just trying to get away from Teflon. It looks like it will be Stainless Steel and a Brillo pad for me. I have a small Cast Iron, but it is anything but maintenance free.

[@livefreeordie4850]

Mike know I know why I'm coughing when I cook on my T-Fal at high heat. I just that it was the spicy sausages I was cooking.

[@livefreeordie4850]

Danny I know right

[@LoriCor-]

Oh, that is bad news. I love ceramic.

[@jannwebb]

The video quality is amazing. What camera

[@kencarey3477]

What about condensation?

[@michellecastaneda20]

Working on my high top van now. I have the floors and walls almost done. Can't wait for the RTR. Thanks for the videos.

[@kathysyphrit5713]

Love everything Bob does. You have encouraged me to get out and can life . I am a slave to my home😠 Bob you are a great guy.

[@nonyabiz8426]

Thank you for making this Bob. Question though, how do you store any leftovers? Do they get cold in your cooler?

[@purelovepaintings5075]

today you look like Santa. I love Santa

[@dragonmyst000]

When people ask me what type of RV I have I say a Camper van. They give me an odd look then I explain it as.... I use mostly camping gear and I sleep in a steel tent.

[@Mickey_McD]

Thanks, Bob. Have you ever used denatured alcohol stoves?

[@lisacrawford7059]

I love his channel.. Great video if your new living in van or car. Or RV

[@garbostyle1]

Hello Bob, I recently found your channel and am binge watching all your videos. I dropped my Netflix , Amazon and Hulu subscriptions because I just no longer watch them, I am always on youtube watching you do things that I need to learn to do. I decided I am going to do this full time having done it for about a year and a half already. I will need a new vehicle since my old Chevy van died a while back. My question for you is , and I hope you see this and answer, what do you think about the small tabletop griddles? I bought the large one and the tabletop one recently and wondered if you think they might be a good choice for van/camper cooking. I bought them because I used to be a waffle house cook and I know how great the food tastes and the versatility of how many different things you can cook on them , everything from eggs, hash browns, burgers, hot dogs, bacon, ham, sausage, steaks, chicken, grilled cheese, pancakes, etc., etc., etc. The great thing about it is you can cook all of that with absolutely no dishes except the spatula you flip and lift the food with. Cleanup is fairly easy too , especially with one so small. The tabletop model is 22 inches. Have you ever seen anybody who uses one? Have you ever used one? If you have done a review of one please let me know so I can watch it. Thank you so much for all you do.

[@scotttyson8104]

Love the copper pans had to buy 2 different sets. Great video.

[@lilliecunningham7933]

Thank you Mr. Bob, another great video. Very informative, going camping, yes I can, yes I will In The Name of Jesus. Be Blessed

[@Radnally]

Thx for the advice about cooking inside

[@gisellegonzalez2628]

I’ve always cooked in my Van. I open my door and all is fine. I’m a vegetarian so my meals are pretty easy. I do carry cast iron and the copper. Just because I live in my Van doesn’t mean all the meals are unhealthy. Thank you for the video Bob!!

[@unmapa5767]

I soffritto onions and peppers and make a 5 min amazing Arroz and frijoles for 1 week

[@livingwithtri]

Very helpful!!! Also this cleaning technique saves from needed a sink and dealing with grey water.

[@tony-kj5mc]

Thanks Bob I have waiting to see how you cooked in your van. You said you are doing more videos on this .Good I will be watching!!

[@ShannonShenanigans79]

I LOVEEEEE the Copper pans! They are the best no joke

[@Eldertalk]

Looks simple enough. I clean with vinegar and love cast iron.

[@treysuniverserv1576]

Bob I have great respect for what you do to help people. There are so many troll and may sayers out there I am glad that they don't effect your positive message!

[@candiedginger8729]

Ceramic coated pots and pans are great, even cast iron can be found that is ceramic coated. Im not keen on scrubbing dishes so the non stick surface helps with morale. 😊

[@mrs7978]

great video again, but if you can learn to drive and reverse an RV or van cooking is a doddle. a quart of vodka wasted on washing up.

[@steveryerson9830]

This sentence makes no sense to me!

[@VerucaPumpkin]

Constant inspiration from your youtube channel. Thank you so much for the idea. I will use a spray bottle to do my dishes as well when I get my van!

[@emdee7744]

Good tips. Thanks for the video. Never thought of using vodka as an antiseptic. Adding that to the idea file. Thanks for passing on your friend's tip.

[@nomadpi1]

Pressure cooker? Crock pot? Opening cans of chili, beans, etc...that's just heating food, not cooking. I make chili with frying pan, then crock pot; I make beans, etc in a pressure cooker. OK. You mentioned pressure cookers. Thks.

[@mkroach59]

I also have magical powers.! & I will not die. LOL

[@karenmullen3210]

For those who do not want to shell out approximately three and a half bucks for something that is 99.9905% water, you can make your own wth 1 1/2 teaspoons bleach and 22 ounces of water and put in your own spray bottle. And seeing as a 16-ounce bottle of generic no name or store brand bleach will cost an average price of 33 - 45 cents, This recipe Won't even cost you a full ounce of liquid bleach at 0.025 cents = 2 1/2 pennies an ounce. 6 tsps of fluid equals one ounce. It only takes 1 1/2, So 0.025 cents divided by 6 = 0.00416666667. Total cost is less than a penny. Plus whatever you water costs for 22 ounces. Makes a lotta sense to make your own, huh?

[@janecormie5410]

Bob have you considered cleaning with Simple Green. Very safe for cleaning anything. And concentrate. I love it.

[@curtjackson5052]

GREAT .. I'm getting ready for the road .. Van or Suburban, just not sure yet .. I see all builds with a Sink & none big enough for much & sure can't take a bath in it. So NOW no sink😊 Winter in AZ, NM or TX can be cold & windy .. Outside Showers, just not 4 me in that weather & driving 30 miles into town seems a waist of time & $ .. not sure what the answer is &

[@dorcasowens1210]

The copper colored pan is made by MOSS & STONE. BOB by your recommendation I purchased that pan. I absolutely love it. In fact I also purchased the smaller frying pan with lid. Clean up is so easy. Just wipe them clean with a paper towel, wash and rinse. These pans brown and cook meat perfectly, eggs are easy. A very good investment.

[@samlsd9711]

Wow 16 years a nomad. I admire that for sure, North America has the worst temperature in the world.Well besides South East Asia and Japan that you have to deal with an earthquake every year on October. Respect!

[@noahcount7132]

Very interesting and informative. REALLY looking forward to your microwaving video and learning which microwaves are best for van-dwelling nomads.

[@decespugliatorenucleare3780]

Sorry about your divorce - keep fighting. But, by the way: this van idea is cool. I have a house office with lots of equipment, so I guess it wouldn't exactly work for me - but, otherwise, that's actually really interesting.

[@freebird1477]

" takes the bad job away of washing dishes" love it! That's hilarious. I think washing dishes is a " bad job " also.

[@asherhouseman6838]

Bob, I have a question. Soon I'll be living the life of an ex-pat in Thailand (my wife wants to go back to her home country of Thailand) and am wondering how to manage that when I come back to the US. When I fly back once a year to check on my rental properties and do my taxes, I'll be in the US for two or three weeks with no car, no relatives to stay with, no internet, and no hotel (unless I want to pay through the nose to stay in one the whole time). I'm wondering if I just rent a large van while I'm back and live in that for three weeks. Renting a large van the whole time also sounds expensive. Do you know of cheap housing in the Minnesota, Wisconsin, South Dakota area I could use?

[@johnthompson5792]

hey Bob, hope everything is well, stay strong, stay independent, tc

[@CaliforniaBushman]

I'm building wooden inserts in both of my 4" thick side van doors to make 6". Putting a two burner fold down propane stove in the rear side one (extra hinges to hold weight of doors). Then a fold down cutting board and laptop table for the passenger captain's chair inside the front side, side door. Then a custom welded foldable, storable, mountable burner fan above the two burners to suck the water vapor out the side window when cooking inside (in addition to the 14" ceiling fan). I'll have both doors open, facing eachother for outside cooking. I could even mount a curtain & collapsible rod between the open side doors while cooking in a populated city to hide camp cooking activity in the summer!