Van Life is Dying (and this trend is replacing it)

Van life is losing interest - it's impossible to refute this fact (so please don't try). As the world of insta boho van builds and solar off grid micro minimalism comes to an end, the vacuum of alternative lifestyle is demanding a new hashtag. This is a video about one strong, handsome man's journey to unearth the next big thing in the world of the outdoor industry. The conclusion may take you by surprise, so buckle up for an emotional ride like none you've ever experienced before.
/ @shaffern
Van Life is Dying (and this trend is replacing it)
Directed and edited by @Shaffer Nickel / shaffernickel
Stuff I use
MUSIC LICENSING: (get one month free)
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AUDIO
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Second favorite on-camera microphone: amzn.to/3v2Dz1B
CAMERAS
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LIGHTING
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SMALL THINGS I CAN’T LIVE W/O
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VAN ACCESSORIES
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Epic blanket: amzn.to/3rdu7HA
#vanlife #toyotahiace #shaffernickel #camping

[@christianfrancisco5322]

This is gold, I can't wait to become a pioneer in this new trend called camping

[@touluevang3471]

I hope ppl do legit camping and not go to those camping spot, lame af tbh.

[@campervanbug7658]

Been doing this new trendy thing called camping and working for over 20 years it's called being homeless by some, we're different thoe, learn to enjoy the passive violence of being confused for a scumbag by refusing to pay rent and living in a tent🤣👌

[@gaberoyalll]

tent life :)

[@ericcartman9594]

@@campervanbug7658 bro why dont just buy a home like lmao living in the street who whatns to do that! 😂🤣🤣

[@oldchicnewtricks]

Remember, he invented it! 😂

[@mjm1955]

New trend, cave life…..but caves converted with water, gas, electric, insulation, plumbing, internet, bathroom, queen bed, and $130k remote work salary.

[@ShafferN]

Guaranteed someone is living this life right now 😂

[@mjm1955]

@@ShafferN “i love the minimalism of my new lifestyle” lol

[@TomChain]

I’m pretty sure Bruce Wayne makes way more money than that!

[@LifeWithRilla]

I'm literally about to live that life and I much rather do that. Minimalism is defined for each person in relative terms. I just don't get the point of shaming some one who could be doing a whole lot more living on their relative definition of less.

[@touluevang3471]

@@LifeWithRilla there is a fine line.

[@madayis9707]

There's absolutely a huge portion of van culture that has become "look at how nice my recreational toy is" but I would have to say part of it has become "housing is too expensive so I am trying to make a fully functioning (dream) home out of this van"

[@jfay1111]

This is me exactly. i still have my commute car thats paid off and i love nature so why not. People can be apart van life for whatever reason. There's no right or wrong! As long as it works for them 😁

[@hunterroach666]

This !!!! Except I'm doing it with a 20ft hookup trailer and it won't be moving around much because it will store all my stuff

[@BobbyFlay14]

This is 100% it, my friends who don’t have children etc don’t see the need for a house anymore. Only worry is fuel prices I suppose

[@ike1660]

I don't care about the trend I just want to build a nice van as a fun project an so I can go on vacation more, in more comfort and in more seasons. And pay for campsites less because I got a solar panel and stuff.

[@mark_makes]

Agreed. People live in a vehicle for different reasons and I think it's wrong to gatekeep the OG van life as dead because people with luxury builds are becoming popular on social media. My bottom line: do what's best for you. A luxury van tour could be inspirational and motaving for one person and unnecessary or unrealistic for the next. To each their own.

[@torresgio6148]

I feel like van life is totally still magical. The more decked out it is the more sustainable the lifestyle can be. I feel like van life isn't about the van itself but about the journey you're able to take and the people you meet along the way.

[@Povbiking]

Absolutely, just because you are over it (van life) doesn’t mean it is dead or not cool anymore

[@shermstudio1957]

That's what the government wants.. vanlife to be over! They need and want consumers, ...this off the grid lifestyle doesn't pay taxes for city services etc Just like the hippies of the 60s the nomads are basically self sufficient. The government wants to keep track of us . I wouldn't be surprised if good ole Uncle Sam is promoting these types of anti- van videos.

[@TarynToday]

Losing everything made me appreciate van life, but actually doing it on the road in beautiful places made me really like living again.

[@leonardodicaprio8726]

Van life went from "how to travel on a budget" to "rich people hobbie" real quick

[@dechannigan2980]

They even started hopping trains to experience the hobo culture..

[@sausagefingers714]

blame Instagram.. it wasn't always like this

[@instridewith_life]

Right?! I look for months before I finally found my first van, its simple. Has a bed and short counter and portable toilet and some non professional storage shelves. Its insulated and the van runs great. That's all I need!

[@chrisheartman9263]

It's not really that. What it is really is "inflation is fucking up home costs so I'm gonna make a whole ass functional home out of this van so that 1) I don't have to live out of a smaller car and 2) either I don't have rent and I'm gonna live a fully nomadic life, or rent gets cheaper because the best option would be renting out a small lot in bumfuck nowhere". It can also be "rich people hobby", but mostly it's the first one.

[@jonathanweston2448]

Not really….. the wealthy tend to spend £80-£90k on a rapide XXL or Bessacar type camper.

[@AnyLastWords_]

Yo bro this video brought back some mad nostalgia for me. I attempted a free climb on that same exact Arch at 8:05 during my first epic van life road trip back in 2016. My wife convinced me to come down after I got half way up it b/c she didn't want me to die. It was scarier coming down than it was going up. We stopped doing van life in 2017. And then she passed away in 2019. I tried going back to van life in 2020 but it just wasn't the same. If I could go back and relive those moments, I would. This video might be the closest thing I'll ever get to that. Thx for posting my dude. I think you convinced me to try this crazy new camping trend. I'll definitely give you credit though for sure!

[@lanthanumkhloride8538]

What made vanlife cool was the feeling of breaking from the herd and living on the edge, facing daily challenges. Now there are thousands and thousands of "nomads" taking over public lands all across the West. Vans have become comfy mini-homes with all the amenities. The main challenge is finding an open campsite!

[@1WHATSUP1]

AND TODAY HOMELESS PEOPLE ARE VERYWHERE

[@user-rr7bv6my4e]

For me the cool factor didn't motivate me, what motivates me is throwing myself in the deep experience all kinds of lyfrstyles. This is just one of many with pros and cons like life always has

[@nomissy1]

Living in a van 4 years now, and I'm so happy somebody points the issue with van life out... It started as minimalism and became just another form of materialism. Just a mat to sleep on in the back is what everybody should start with! Then add, what you really need long term.

[@Ciupremo]

It just switched to RV life

[@lyrasmedicine]

Yes it gets very crowded quick.

[@kmm2442]

But aren't all those things things they need.

[@jonothandoeser]

I'm not ready to join the minimalist religion... Sacrifice your things! Denounce "materialism!" The less you have the more holy you are!

[@caseysmith544]

@@Ciupremo agreed or at the least RV Vans.

[@havocthehobbit]

"I've got a dirt bag skateboarder that lives rent free in my soul" - I felt this way deeper then I should have

[@kristinbrennenstuhl6520]

I’ll second that feeling…….and I turned 77 today!!! That rent free skateboarder never left……..

[@sunshinelavender1663]

Samemmmmeeeee

[@GamingHouseCinema]

To be honest, this is my first time seeing his videos and I actually thought he was talking about the car, Kia Soul….

[@yungmentalproblems]

@@kristinbrennenstuhl6520 bro grow up already you're about to die

[@madiantin]

@@GamingHouseCinema The quote spoke to my soul. Your comment made me laugh out loud. =D

[@maggiealena]

I got into van life because I wanted to down size my life while saving. $ was not the end result. Peace of mind was. Less things! I had home filled with stuff. I wanted less stuff, but I needed to learn what I could live without. After a full year. I found out I don't need anything but the basics. It help me to cut down and it got me out doing something besides, Nothing! I sold everything. My home, second car, dishes, pots, pans, vitamix pro blender, foodprocesser. BBQ, the smoker, grill top 2 burner. All my horde of cloths, shoes. Once I did it! I was free. I have $$ in the bank. I own some securities. I will be ok, because I still work. I will never retire. I don't want too. I am finally living my life my way. I'm 😊

[@rz1974]

Surely propaganda

[@helmaschine1885]

But if someone breaks in, everything you own can be stolen and driven away. What do you do then?

[@alanbstard4]

you should have rented your home. Income plus still home ownership and renter pays utilities

[@tybarker5038]

Love it, yes yes yes 😊

[@lynet1998]

If I owned a home I would definitely not be living in an old, crap campervan (that I am doing). I would keep the home to live in. Or maybe sell it to buy another house more remote (if in an urban area).

[@peterpiper487]

This video is obviously a spoof but I actually DID take van life back to what it was in the beginning. No solar (Jackery instead), a sink with gravity-fed water in a square jug, a simple bed on a platform and my food and clothing in crates underneath the bed. MAKES ME SUPREMELY HAPPY!!

[@gbp3616]

A problem is looking at it as a trend, do what you feel like doing. If you don't want to do it when the trend dies, you probably never REALLY wanted to in the first place

[@RayannaJohnson-tq8mx]

When things are trending, they're more expensive. That is the problem that most people are having with van life.

[@gbp3616]

@@RayannaJohnson-tq8mx maybe partly but most people just want to do the new hip thing or try to start a youtube channel.. rather than actually just living that way

[@theoutlier66]

That’s like when i got a JBL speaker. It would up becoming a part of my life.

[@charlene5461]

Lol! My oldest son and i, (he was 10, and it was the week of his 10th birthday) in 1991, threw a mattress in a 1976 Southern Bell old telephone van, threw in a plastic trash bag each of clothes and towels and took off for a 5 hour drive to the beach for a 9 day trip, with less than $200.00 and a grocery bag full of Chef Boy Ardee canned foods! Put back enough money for return gas expense and spent every dime on rides, games, and some souvenirs t-shirts!! Best beach trip ever and will cherish those memories for the rest of my life!! Slept in the van after sitting around the campfire and eating The Chef and bologna sandwiches every night! It's not what you have in life but what fun you have in life! Enjoy your journey and remember, it's not how fancy you can get there, it's how happy you are when you do arrive!!

[@ShafferN]

This comment makes all the effort put into this video 100% worth it. Thank you so much for sharing.

[@charlene5461]

@@ShafferN Good morning! Love the way you think and I can tell you, from experience, the simple life is the best life!! I'll be waiting for your next video and can't wait to see where your journey takes you!! That same Southern Bell van with a mattress throwed in the floor was a treasure for years. When my younger son got old enough to camp, we three spent many weekends beside a river, fishing, swimming, floating on old patched inner tubes, hiking and riding our old put together bicycles. Cereal for breakfast and bologna sandwiches for lunch. Hotdogs and fried taters for supper. Lol! Back then, a pack of hotdogs was less than a dollar!😄 Probably a phrase over used, but they were dearly, "The good ol' days". Best wishes for a wonderful journey!

[@duamilli]

Love this comment, motivating me to go out there and just live life!

[@nmartin5551]

Awesome! That is an experience trip, not a “purchased all-inclusive.” I bet your son cherishes it more than you do. My dad had a work van, and piling in and going places was what we did as a family. Not many overnights, but time together outdoors. Well done!

[@charlene5461]

@@nmartin5551 It was an amazing trip. I left out we broke down 3 hours from the beach!🤣 I didn't have a tool with me. I looked up to the heavens and asked for help. Most wouldn't believe it but when I dropped my eyes back to earth, there was 2 country boys in an old Ford Pinto and put the fan belt back on, tightened the adjuster and we never had a bit of trouble after that! That same van made many more memories possible and when my youngest son reached a safe age to camp, we three, my 2 sons and I, camped by the river, fished, rode put together bikes and had a blast for several more years! Hiw I would love see that old van sitting in my drive today💖

[@freethemcgees]

This was fun and brought me back a few years. I tent camped every summer as a kid and in my 20's, but now we're over 50 and Hubs and I have a cheap E350 15 passenger that literally has a bed and a toilet for glamping comforts. Everything else is just standard 1970's summer camping trip equipment. No solar, no running water, no air conditioning or heating. We cook outside on a portable stove, and we love every minute of it! We aren't complete minimalist, but our van build cost less than our first house!

[@surpriseadventures]

I always tried to stay humble while living out of our SUV for about 4 years. But I couldn't help to think negatively about my situation, even though I had the privilege to do this lifestyle by choice initially and not forced. It started to seem like so many people had these glamorous van builds while I was stuck with this old, small, high mileage dodge. It's super reliable though! I just ended up getting big tent set up for when crashing at a campground, and then do a lot of backpacking trips and sleep down the trails. I just let my perception get out of whack and now focused on going back into the lifestyle.

[@sammiller6631]

Van life isn't dying. It's the image-obsessed hipster crowd who need something to fill the hole in their empty life stuck on the "needing attention" treadmill. Alternative counterculture has never needed a hashtag. It existed before hashtags and "lifestyle". It will be better (and more authentic) without them.

[@jesussavesyeshedoes]

Well said!

[@davidthejanitor847]

Live in a 67 Dodge A100 for a year.... No platform, just a futon and basic camping cooking stuff and a cooler. After my first divorce I had no choice but the "Van Life"..... Sure do miss that van. This was in the early 2000s....

[@caseysmith544]

I agree, KZbin is fine, but when I see so many just posting on other social Media platforms, they just suck the life out of the experience. The ones on KZbin create actual content for others unlike on quick blurb social media so I do not see KZbin as an issue. What I do see as the issue is people who think they need to document using other social media platforms ever single step.

[@RichardsNickname]

for real the dude never was into van life in the first plae he never really understood the culture he liked camping and cross country hiking van life was always about the van not the life outside of it

[@Jaysonbc1234]

🙌🙌❤️❤️

[@tonyfourpaws4511]

I'm going to post another comment because I rewatched this and love it even more. I walked From Tampa, Florida to Bend, Oregon in 2011. just a crappy backpack and a gallon jug of water. I literally never felt so free. Occasionally I would walk from Bend to the Coast of California and back. just to have something to do. I never had a camera, I didn't vlog it, I didn't even have a Cellphone. Every day I find myself getting older and older and I'm not happy. I've lost the enthusiasm... I'm heading back out. this time more prepared and a little wiser. I can't do this crap anymore. my sould doesn't want to do it anymore. It wants to be free.

[@snippets981]

Enjoy, stay wise❣🙏❣

[@bobbiegoodman3601]

Accept Jesus as your Saviour and you are free.🙏

[@antmanv05]

I get that, but life is too short to walk. I can cover the entire country in the time it takes you to walk somewhere.

[@MayaOpperman]

@@antmanv05 but what do you miss along the way? Sometimes it's about the journey, not the destination

[@carsonhollis]

Pretty cool, man. I’ve been really wanting to do a walk. I live in California so I’m thinking of starting out with a shorter walk along a section of the central coast. You should definitely get out again, sounds like you really enjoyed it.

[@aidandpolonsky]

Dude, you've got something. From your editing and overall production, to your personality. Keep it up.

[@RPS2443]

Your energy is contagious! I love that you are going back to the roots-actual outdoors adventures. And you're not wrong about van life getting out of hand.

[@michaelbrinks8089]

I had several "van lifers" tell me that buying a bit of land and making an off grid homestead/cabin/parked RV/tiny home was a stupid idea. Then everyone who said it was a dumb idea, did just that once they grifted/e-begged enough money online.

[@WhoTFVotedBiden]

Yoooo literally!!!

[@muuubiee]

Cost difference, you also can't change scenery with a permanent home. There are 2 reasons for "van life". One is to have an alternative home and get to "experience" stuff. The other is to live cheap. People who spend $100k on a van + interior design are dumbasses, because that van is gonna deprecate down to like $20-30k in just a few years. There is no way that you could ever beat the market (unless you lose it all on a crash) from the savings of living in a van, especially now when you've taken out a loan for it. (i.e. 100k*1,07^years will exceed the linear savings indefinitely).

[@judylloyd7901]

@@muuubiee depreciate*

[@antmanv05]

don't ever listen to naysayers. if you have an idea that works for you, follow through. don't listen to the stupid crowd.

[@icalotdonthide2646]

Dude, I had people call me insane for wanting to buy a mini farm in a different state. I gave ZERO fks and now I'm looking at my 6 acres, that's only 30 mins from a 2 tier city with appreciation to God. No meat shortage in my house.

[@karamarie6781]

Why does anything have to be a trend? If you like it, do it. Who cares if you impress no one but yourself? You will be better off! Blessings 💕🙏🏼

[@RKusmie64]

I wish I could give this comment multiple likes 🙂

[@InDisskyS131]

Because this guy can’t come up with any original content so he needs to hop on something that’s popular to make a video about.

[@alanbstard4]

exactly

[@christopherkilian9763]

Thank you Kara!

[@CMV314]

He has a right to talk about whatever he wants in his videos. If you don't like it, then don't watch. Simple as that.

[@moviewatcher7255]

As someone whose gone from a travel enthusiast, to rv enthusiast, to camping enthusiast in an America that has gone from a nation of Freedom and prosperity to a political trademark, I can say that I am looking forward to the opportunity to try out this camping trend I've heard so much about.

[@zantas-handle]

I've got an even better new trend. First you take the wheels off the van and put it on blocks, plumbing all your utility supplies like gas, water and electric into what people like to call 'the mains'. Then cut off the back door of your van, the passenger door(s) and the driver door. And remove the front of the van completely, careful not to spill any oil from the engine. Then remove the roof. Now replace everything - except the roof - with bricks, adding some glass in square 'frames; if you like, just for natural light. Expand the footprint of your 'Brick Space' to include extra 'rooms' too if you like - and don't forget a roof, timber or tiles can be good! To feel more secure, as well as for convenience, you can have gaps that are covered by removable wood too. Amazingly, you can find tonnes of these things called 'doors' available online that fit just perfectly. Final steps? Fill your 'Brickbox' with as much stuffable stuff as you can possibly stuff into all the stuffable areas, find someone you can barely tolerate to move in with you, and spend the rest of your life wishing you weren't weighed down by an Eiffel Tower-sized pile of unnecessary shit. Truly truly beeyoo-tiful. And remember - I invented it!

[@ebalojosh]

“Even though I didn’t make it to the top, the place I wound up was amazing” a profound and thought provoking statement

[@hydroloco5132]

It's what the mountains teach us

[@hilmir]

I'm glad the trend is dying, as it takes the spotlight and focus off true vanlifers. alot of us are stealth campers too, so we don't care if we get clicks or what not. we want to be as invisible as possible both offline and online, lol

[@michellecollins6379]

So true 😊👍

[@griffingarrett4807]

Yep the less van lifers the better, fuck these new no overnight parking signs😂

[@hyphy654]

@@griffingarrett4807 put them in the bin. They apparently pull off quite easy lol :)

[@andyfunke9484]

I know someone who converted an old Grumman van to look like a work van, to be less conspicuous. On the side of it he made up a name Joes Sewage & Septic Services. No body has ever tried to break into or steal his van. The inside is beautiful, the outside, not so much.

[@Simplefng]

You get a house or a van. Not both. I've talked to a lot of boogie dick heads ( seriously, the attitude of some these people) Leave something nice for the folks who had to choose van life over the streets.

[@growmiezhomiez8760]

That’s awesome even being able to afford to travel like this. I think that’s why you guys exist in the space is so that we at home can live them thru you vicariously and somewhat experience some things that we wouldn’t have been able to experience otherwise. Have fun!😊

[@sherrilltechnology]

This is a great video!!! Man I cannot imagine how much time you put into this, thanks for doing something different!

[@lauraloves...vanlife9368]

My best mini van living experience was meeting a guy at the continental divide who rode his bike from Argentina to that very place I met him on his way to the final destination Alaska. 5 years 5,000 miles with only 2,000 more ahead. He should be getting to Alaska right about now. The amazing people you meet on the road!

[@icecream005]

Maybe we met the same guy. I passed him near the continental divide on Independence Pass. His name was Ross

[@Azeminad]

@@icecream005 classic Ross.

[@loveme77527]

Now that is awesome!! I gave a ride to an older gentleman about 65-70 a couple yrs ago who was hiking the entire west coast, he came from germany he had been on the rode for about 5 months, I was in my setup & I was actually jealous of how FREE HE WAS... No car... Just walking hiking & hitchhiking around sleeping at the most beautiful destinations outside with no box of a car house etc just the stars & the moon with all the nightly critters... I was in awwww of him, we couldn't speak much language barrier yet I knew he had found his peace...🦋 I still think of him... Those are the meetings of strangers you never forget...💞 I see guys riding their bikes on big sur sleeping in a hammock even in the rain just one with nature, no selfie stick just the good old outdoors... I love meeting people like that not a card or worry in the world living completely in the moment...🌱🍃🌻🦋

[@orcaflotta7867]

"5 years 5,000 miles" Really? That makes 1.000 miles/year. Is what I used to do in a week. And that was on an old and slow Harley in rainy season. Brrr...

[@orcaflotta7867]

@anherb How utterly uninspiring. What for did the good lord give us the internal combustion engine?

[@wanderingnomad987]

Definitely agree that van life is slowly losing interest. It's kind of a good thing because that is where real van lifers content survives. They aren't doing it to join a popular trend but because they actually love the lifestyle and want to share their journey. Seeing it be other people's passion inspired me to try it out. Now I'm living in a Toyota Hiace. Love your van btw.

[@pieceofschmidtgamer]

Basically this. Internet Trends are like a parasitic pest feeding off of legitimately good things in this world, slowly killing them.

[@castorchua]

The trend of unaffordable housing ain't going nowhere

[@cartercurren5870]

what is the model of the van? tried to find it but they all sort of look the same...

[@laur-unstagenameactuallyca1587]

@@cartercurren5870 it's the lamborghini sprinter

[@pamlaenger6870]

Gas prices are hurting van life.

[@JohnHill]

you're incredible at this!! keep it going 👊

[@volairefides]

You're a G!! Love to see another skater in a non skater related comment section. 👊❤️🤍🩵

[@IDontknowanymore-dn4st]

no way my favorite skater!!

[@youtubeistheboss]

Videography , Editing , Cinematics, Audio , Storytelling all 10/10 💙

[@stevenburton7725]

New trend, starting up a food pantry, or soup kitchen for people who have to live in vans, and busted up rv’s. A trend of making this world a little better for the people who are forgotten

[@judiumstead5484]

how about how to grow food while still living the van life.... just think how much food a breeding pair of rabbits can provide not to mention the fertilizer for a small garden.

[@seanoleary1979]

@@judiumstead5484 ...you're horrific.

[@judiumstead5484]

@@seanoleary1979 rabbit has more protein than beef and quicker to the table and then you can have slippers made or better yet learn a skill and learn to tan the hide yourself.

[@duckrivermama66]

@@judiumstead5484 But they are really short on fat, which your body really does need.

[@judiumstead5484]

@@duckrivermama66 saved bacon grease real butter and cream sauces can fix that... being in a condo bunnies are the easiest livestock to hide from my HOA as all land in common ground I can't keep any animal outside penned.

[@AngryCamperVlog]

While trendy people desperately tries to follow trends to stay cool dude, we others just keep on living in our vans no matter if it becomes a trend or goes out of trend. Do what YOU want to do with your life, not what others wants you to do. Be you. It's cool enough!

[@kieranneale973]

Your not wrong mate, the whole Dirt bag van lifestyle of living with less is what made it so awesome and attracted me to buying my own van. 🤙

[@samplautz5586]

This is insane quality stuff right here! Keep up the awesome work

[@TheFormalPickle]

Dude... The creativity! This is freaking beautiful, the storytelling, the pacing, the framing, colors & music, it is all so well done! Great job!

[@ConnorLipke]

My van was $1200 in 2017. Now the same model with triple the miles is going for $10k+. Van life has been ruined by influencers, and I say this as a former van life influencer. I've considered buying another, but there's no way I could ever justify the price. I absolutely hate seeing this $100,000 sprinter builds that people buy to try to become famous on social media.

[@trustthedogsheneverlies644]

It's cut out those who actually need to van life. I got my latest just before the hike for 2.5k and now I'd be lucky getting it for less then 10k. Those who can afford the 50k, 80k builds don't need to live in a van where as some of us can barely make rent so "van life" gives us a chance to breathe financial (the knock, showers and water search are still anus tightening events, there is no glory to it)

[@markjohnson8744]

lets go brandon

[@sammiller6631]

Have you done penance for ruining van life as an influencer?

[@lawrencedavidson6195]

Van price increase has very little to do with influencers. Used vehicles on a whole worldwide have increased dramatically since the pandemic started when manufacturing of new vehicles decreased dramatically, hence pushing up the price of used vehicles. I hope to move into a boxtruck this year, much cheaper than rent or mortgage.

[@sammiller6631]

@@lawrencedavidson6195 Van life was trending on youtube long before the pandemic.

[@TwohundredSeventy]

I'm going to work so much in high school; once I get out of high school I'll be a mechanic. I'll work like that, flip cars, film videos about cars, make as much money, Buy a van, and go from there. (Maybe, I'm not going to college)

[@Blackfilmguild]

Great cinematography and storytelling! You make a great point about the trendy nature of the culture. Never understood how people so young afford such nice vans.

[@Milo19970]

Its actually growing in Europe since a room the size of a large sprinter van costs €700/800 on average here in The Netherlands wich is insane. I'm planning to live in my van for the next 5 years and have already saved 10k that i would otherwise spend on rent. And on top of that i am able to safe almost €1500 of my €1900 salary every month i don't pay for food either since i work inside a restaurant. To be honest if i stay single i would see myself live in a van for more than 5 years i have everything in it a shower, 2 bikes, kitchen and even a mini office with full functioning PC🤣 I sound like i'm bragging but i honestly think its hillarious that we are able to do that in 2022. Its litterally a tiny home on wheels. And in my opinion more people should try it especially the people who never did well in school or don't have the desire to do any of the high paying jobs like me. So they can one day enjoy having a house without a crazy high mortage. Being able to pay most of the mortage up front can be a huge financial relief

[@landscapesandmotion]

I feel like this is going to be a growing trend everywhere as newer generations reject the seemingly rigged game of life they face these days and start to get creative with how they live.

[@SolVessel]

exactly, all of these people are complaining about how the original vanlife was different... well yes times have changed, things are different now and the cost of living is more expensive. they're trying to go backwards rather than adapting to the times

[@irmadegraaf1702]

Hey Milo! I am from the Netherlands and curious.... How old are you, and do you want to travel across Europe, or worldwide?

[@parol3564]

The editing and storytelling in this were top notch and your commentary is hilarious!

[@rockskipper5353]

I already did the van life, bike touring, hitch hiking, trail hiking, and now I own a house with everything I could ask for ... I'm still lonely and miss the road .. hitch hiking and bike touring is my favorite way to get around.

[@sc-fj2ds]

Social media is what helps to kill the fun. Life is fun when you don't care about what others are doing and you do it your way. Not the way someone else experienced it Growing up changes your mind and you look for the next adventure.

[@cheesecurd100s]

I lived in a van for almost 5 years, while it was cool and all getting to see most of North America, not having any real responsibilities or purpose does get kind of lonely and depressing after awhile

[@rossb.7471]

It is ridiculous when some vanlife channels put too much emphasis on the van build and all the stuff that goes inside. Some of them keep adding things until the walls are literally closing in on them. There's no room to even sleep with all these cabinets and full kitchen appliances. The whole point of van life was a means to an end - to explore and hike. Living in the van isn't the goal. The goal should be to spend minimal time in the van.

[@someoneelse7629]

You somewhat nailed it down, the builds has gone from expsoed 2X4's as a bed and a bucket as a sink/toilet and showering in the rain outdoors to queensize beds and farmhouse sinks and rainshowers indoors. I'm looking at converting a van or even smaller to make something I can sleep in, and maybe cook inside if it's raining. I don't have the skills to make it really nice, but I'm not an influencer so I don't need to...

[@TarrelScot]

There is an indescribable feeling about hoisting your pack, walking out the front door and heading for the bus-stop. Unencumbered by a vehicle and all the responsibilities that go with it, a new adventure awaits. Multi-day backpacking is such a great way to calm the mind and achieve clarity of thought. Life becomes a simple mantra of; wake, breakfast, break camp, hoist pack, walk. I have experienced so many emotions when backpacking, from elation to tear-filled melancholy. I put it down to a natural "flushing of the psyche" that can only happen when life is simplified. Safe travels. #camping

[@southernrebel159]

As a former 'homeless' man and living in a tent in Chattanooga TN for about 3 years. I'm ecstatic to finally have my Ford Explorer Sport to live in. Now I have no more tents to let dry out before packing them up and storing them and I can get from one place to another much quicker, lol. I did however enjoy the humor in your video. You and Danico take care and YHVH bless you on your travels.

[@FreeSpiritMom]

When I say I’m smiling at your comment! That’s what’s up! I’m so happy for you!

[@clarrise8831]

Yeah, that's right. A hard top is always better than a fabric when it comes to heavy rains. Van Life isn't dead, it's even growing bigger these days. There's a huge purpose to it, and that's having a home that you can bring with you anywhere without fear of heavy rains you may encounter. Plenty of fuel is all you have to have, and the rest is just our basic needs of survival.

[@southernrebel159]

@@FreeSpiritMom Thank you

[@southernrebel159]

@@clarrise8831 Amen

[@cookiimonst3r]

@@FreeSpiritMom really? with his confederate flag profile pic?

[@Mrllamazilla]

I hear the best part of owning a sprinter van is telling everyone you own a sprinter van. I’m not jealous at all…

[@beejoy6153]

😂😂😂

[@rockmunkey1981]

The crap part is telling everyone how much you have given the Mercedes garage to keep fixing your sprinter

[@biblestudysongwritingjoyce1981]

What fun your video is to watch. I'm turning my Dodge Caravan into a camper van and was embarrassed to show it on facebook to my camper van friends who all have gorgeous picture perfect interiors. I'm a tad clostrophobic so I don't want anything in my van except necessities and I don't wish to spend much. You are soooo right! You've made me feel so much better about my plans now. Whew! What a relief. I too have pet plants I talk to. I hadn't thought about bringing one with me. What a grand idea. :) Thanks.

[@BernWag]

I lived in my 1966 Ford Econoline van in 1975. I had dreams of decking it out but the technologies and van options were much more primitive 50 years ago. So I insulated it best I could and built a primitive bed (kind of ahead of you on this one, haha). Anyway, I was going to college and couldn't afford housing, even with my student loans (which took me years to pay off). My friend was in a fraternity and they let me stay in their parking lot. I had a part-time job as an unarmed bank parking lot security guard. It was a cold or hot and always tough life, and I often think how things like solar panels and inverters, induction cookware, 12vdc refrigeration, diesel heaters, cell phones, laptops, Internet (email, online banking and buying, streaming media to non-CRT TV-monitor, gaming, etc.), LED lighting, digital books for school, and so much more could have made my life so much easier. I was way ahead of my time, maybe too far ahead of my time. Now, 50 years later, I'd like to have a 4x4 van with all the comforts, but I'm not physically able to build it and it hasn't been easy finding the right van or the entrepreneur willing to do the work. I'd use it to take short day trips with an occasional overnight or two. For now, I live vicariously through others doing these things.

[@touluevang3471]

Dude deserve a lot more views and subs. Amazing edits, voice over, comedic, etc

[@travisvotour3159]

what a killer channel to land on. Shocked when I saw the subscriber count after seeing the production quality in this. Loved the sense of humour, editing, all around killer work.

[@instagamrr]

Same!

[@MrPHart]

I'm 82+ YO and still kicking...things! I have a 1998 Chev 9 pass van with too many windows, seats, and it's just not the right toy...but it's all I got and I live on S.S. so it this or stay in the rocking chair until...you know. So some seats are out, cardboard over the windows, form pads to lay on, sleeping bags to sleep in, a two burner propane stove and form cooler and stuff here and there as needed. My G.F, she's 86 and I just go places and do things, without a plan and often unscheduled as if we have no cares, we do but we're short on time so F---it keep playing the music and I'll keep trying to learn to dance. If your afraid...(you know) "can't leave right now because of???" then it's okay, stay home until you go to that last funeral and tell St. Peter all about your house and backyard as if he's interested. The only reason God give us life is to live it, use it, be a part of life so thing before you start to stink from one place for too long! And to those that disagree, hell has a few empty chairs left, make sure your names not on them! C-U-around maybe?

[@kevinisfallingdown]

Well I'm stoked I found this Channel... absolute perfect combination of storytelling and humor. Great editing. Much win man!

[@kombilife]

Great storytelling mate... hey, so if you're not going to use that van any more, can I borrow it for a short drive?

[@Katiedid1975]

Me! Me! I wanna borrow it.

[@soniarodriguez2072]

I have cracked up this whole video. You are so over dramatic but in a funny way, not annoying. Your adventures with Daniko, the music when you saw the arch, perfectly done. Jennelle-like, in the sense that your originality and funny bone is real, not acted. Anyways, great video.

[@MakalaOSiggins]

I just found your channel and I’m so glad I did! You’re hilarious and your creativity really shows in your videography style. Happy to have found you before you hit 100k! Can’t wait to follow your journey.

[@airbrushken5339]

In the 1960's my wife and I had a VW Combi camper ... and we discovered the USA and Canada ... I love it when young people (I'm a retired teacher) tell me how "They Discovered anything" ... I used to pass on this information... Someone, somewhere has probably done it and even wrote a book about it. You folks are lucky there is the internet, makes it even simpler. Growing up is hard and then you are too old to do those bucket list items that you overlooked, job, kids, house, military service and then "How Old am I?" be safe...

[@billmilligan7272]

Did this last summer. Threw an inflatable mattress in back of my SUV, grabbed a propane stove and a cooler and a roll of toilet paper, and drove six thousand miles in a big loop around the middle-ish of the USA. Was a ton of fun. Thought about bringing my bike but I'm really glad I didn't after watching this.

[@desertmaverick7567]

I'm so glad that you went through all of that sole searching and mind expanding experience for all of us. Not to mention the physical aspects of climbing up that dangerous life threatening hill! Now we don't have to push our selves so hard to understand the universe, or why water drips, or even how come pigs can't fly. I mean discovering something as sophisticated as a never before thought of thing called, dare I say it! CAMPING could even exist!!!! Did I spell it right? It's such a new concept that I can only hope I could be worthy enough to even dare try it! I was going to try the Van Life thing before but now that you have opened my eyes to CAMPING I have become a true believer and have to get the items that you informed us we will need to explore and become one with the true essence of living outdoors and on the move. I can't thank you enough for this mighty wisdom and will endeavor to become worthy; not only in your eyes but the eyes of others that may follow! not laughing at you, laughing with you. I really enjoyed the humor in this video.

[@LouveniaMusic]

Yeah, I’ll take the cute, cozy and functional van that allows me the me the ability to have some groceries and cook and feel as comfortable as possible on the free road. I don’t see what’s wrong with wanting a cute van. It is normal to want your home to reflect your creativity.

[@KeepItTiny]

Just found this channel and it is disrespectful that I have anywhere as near as many subscribers as you. Your videos are lightyears ahead of mine in talent. Amazing stuff man. Glad I can say I was a fan before you blew up and got 100,000 subscribers

[@barelyaliving1473]

Ah yes, the true next step to van-life: "Intentional Homelessness"

[@ScribblebytesWorldwide]

Editor: How loud do you want it? Shaffer: Yes.

[@thenextspacerace2678]

This was the most entertaining video ever.. I spent 6 weeks on the road living out of my RAV4 on a sketchier bed platform across the county. So relatable, this is great. Hopefully the cactus survived the sink scene lol

[@rockmunkey1981]

Been living an alternative life since. 2011. Started off with a VW T4, then lived in woods in a tent, homemade yurts and benders. I lived out of a backpack hitch hiking my way round to living off a mountain bike and trailer, my bike got run over by a forklift on a farm I was working on and I then bought a van for £60 off a 9 year old who lived on the farm. I then got a subaru impreza wagon and lived out of that. I now live in a stealthy swb low roof van. Insulated and cosy but not an insta van build. Its functional not flash. Unfortunately since covid here in the UK the #vanlife weekend warriors are causing quite an issue. Locals are increasingly angry towards people in vans because of the lack of respect, rubbish left, poor parking etc. I'm glad my van just looks like a work van and it seems the way things are heading, stealth is the way we will need to live

[@MrHitomiplum]

"... and I then bought a van for £60 off a 9 year old who lived on the farm." Give this story prompt to some authors pls. I will read everything.

[@maggiesteen2049]

Omg! You made my morning. Coming from a sprinter owner that was f@&king hilarious. Don’t get me wrong, I bought the van not for van life, but to take my mom who is paralyzed everywhere I go which now will be camping! Nice job! Love this video!!!

[@trustthedogsheneverlies644]

I've done a few van builds, co build some others and can confirm that the next build (for myself) will be bairly more than a bed. You don't need much storage space', it just makes the van a claustrophobic hell, boxes and straps are fine and I find I use them a lot. Less is 100% more in van builds.

[@Ramsaaaa]

I agree. In my teens, I always looked up to the ski and kayak bum culture, just making it work on a shoestring budget, to be able to pursue their dreams of outdoor accessibility. Fast forward 10 years. I finally bought a Tacoma TRD OR with a long bed. Stuck a sheet of plywood in, some boxes for storage, a few cam-lock straps to tie stuff down, lil Mr. Buddy heater, and I called it good. My setup hasn't changed in many years. Simplicity is half the joy. .... sinks? Fancy cabinetry? Fake ivy? TV mounts? GRANITE? I remember when I first saw an "instagram van life build" out in Flathead Natl Forest in 2019. It was hilarious. They couldn't get anywhere... no ground clearance, piss-poor "4WD", no torque to speak of, high roll center, I could go on and on... I've tried getting along with that crowd. Sadly, many of them were rather antisocial. Flying drones at all hours. Carefully planned photo shoots. Trashing campsites (LNT? huh?). Sprinters are the antithesis to outdoor accessibility (unless you're spending $100k+ to make it do things it shouldn't). A consequence of the social media age. If the trend is truly dying out, I couldn't be happier. It's about darn time.

[@Michelle2A]

I'm so glad that you found Danico. We all need a witness to our lives. Someone to love. You've got that, now. Loved the vid! And thanks for inventing camping. I can't wait to tell everyone about it!

[@PARAGRAPHIC]

Quality. Keep up the great editing and storytelling!

[@Max-lf4br]

fancy seeing you guys here

[@PARAGRAPHIC]

@@Max-lf4br surprise 😁

[@misterspot1552]

Twerp looks like a poster child for Chinese chop suewee porno. Probably has rewash able green underwear

[@emilystewartfitness]

Hiace!!!! We're on our 2nd. We only paid $5k for the first one in January 2020 before the trend exploded. We shipped it over to Europe with us. It's NOT fancy but fucking awesome, we've done so many DIY random things in it, including a sketchy bed platform (not so sketchy but still) and multiple kinds of electrical outlets and extra buttons to turn on the fridge... and, yes, there is ALWAYS skateboard in it. We bring our cats with us. No comparison to Danico, but close. Don't worry-- all those boujee van people are droppin' like flies and it'll be the weekend warriors like us with our boring, dirty kind-of shitty vans rattling around like the good 'ol days.

[@NicoJona]

Mad filmmaking skills! Really inspiring on many levels. We live in a big ass truck. Guilty as charged.

[@yvettescheiman4991]

You DID invent something, my friend. A plant travel buddy! I laughed my ass off when you brought him sightseeing with you and let him visit with relatives...🤣

[@lkd06]

Maybe we'll see the return of pet rocks and chia pets

[@blairinhemet]

minimalism is what you have "invented"--we all find it when we need to find it--then it morphs in and out of our lives like goo--at almost 76 I am experiencing another urge to down size and van it again as I did more than 20 years ago--we'll see what happens--

[@averagealice8877]

Very clever and entertaining video! Even the music choices had me chuckling. Keep going!

[@RealKartRacer]

Production and story on this video is amazing thanks. A lot to learn from this

[@xedralya]

“Maybe tomorrow something incredible would happen.” I don’t know when I forgot how to believe in this.

[@bozwick019]

wow..same..

[@tamarakelli687]

This hit me hard. So many van lifers making money off KZbin from sharing their experiences then take all that money and start DIY videos of their new house and tractors and cars (not that they shouldn't get paid for it, but its like they got the money and got out). Gone are the true experiences of living off a little but being rich in experiences. Thank you for pointing out the obvious.

[@PrisonersNoLongerAccepted]

💯% correct 👍

[@zazaaziella16]

It is good that they can make money , and spread their knowledge.

[@ArubaAysha]

Yup

[@itsmelive]

They don’t take away from people who are having amazing van experiences off line though. And the videos they make help others who want to make a home out of their vans. Rent is insanely expensive a lot of people straight up could not afford their own place much less travel without going tiny or non-traditional. Its all part of the society we live in.

[@kristopherthompson1342]

A lot of people pick up Van Life because owning or renting a home is too expensive. A lot of those same people make social media content because it's one of the few jobs that fit well with Van Life. And if that job made them enough money to not have to worry about their original problems, why should they keep doing it?

[@LyriixLKE]

Your editing style and vibe is very unique. Thank you for something original

[@rogdav]

For years now, it has been a big goal of mine to self-build a campervan like the "first class ones" you see everywhere and live in it, because it looks so appealing! But after starting to watch this video, I really think I'm re-thinking what I want. I feel so stupid for being so easily swayed, but this video has GENUINELY got me thinking more about this than I have in ages, and I've come to remember that to begin with, I simply wanted a way to travel and stay relatively safe in. Why does it have to be complicated?! I'm mad with myself for forgetting why the lifestyle appealed to me in the first place. Great vid :) Edit: Camping!!! So smart XD But I'm lazy and do want to try building some things so...

[@GoldenSailorKitty]

If it's what you really want, that's ok. It doesn't matter if nobody else is doing it, or everyone is. What matters is if you're doing what makes you happy in life

[@rogdav]

@@GoldenSailorKitty naw, that's lovely! Thanks :3

[@vaskylark]

Yeah, same. I just want to be able to take weekend trips or longer trips and not have to pay those high prices at hotels. It's because of hotels that I don't go anywhere, so for me that is what van life was/is to me and why I watch it. I do admit to watching how people set up their van for maximum space and efficiency.

[@TomChain]

Definitly worth the wait! Great new video and thank you for regularly launching new trends, the world needs this 😂

[@ThePotatoPrductions]

Your cinematography and editing skills are top of the line and you have a great attitude, i hope you get more recognition for what you do.

[@ye9122]

As Ironic as it is, you’re actually right! The great thing about camping, is there is so many ways to do it. You could do it on foot, mtn bike, kayak, motorcycle, etc. You can bring a pole and go fishing, bring a gun and go hunting, etc. You can set out for the day, the week, etc. You can do it at your local park, or 2000 miles across the country. It provides the ultimate flexibility to experience nature. And you can do it all while still tending to your life, and working a job. The only difference a van makes, is that it allows you to do it full time, IF your lifestyle allows it. Nice vid

[@abrokendowncar]

That’s why motorcycle camping has been so popular

[@TerraFirmaX]

It's the same way in the Over-landing community. I was over-landing before it was called over-landing, we called it camping or going to the desert. I slept on the ground or in the bed of my pickup, almost never in tents. Now-a-days you gotta have a 50 60k trailer to be cool. Not me, not yet anyway, lol. 57 years of this and I still love it

[@alchristensen8121]

As someone who has been living full time in an unglamorous van since before #vanlife was a thing, I'm excited to see the dilettantes check out. More room for the rest of us. And a market soon glutted with low-mileage tricked out Sprinters at fire sale prices, allowing me to replace my aging Express at a reasonable price.

[@cassidyv588]

how much you wanna sell your express for?

[@jonmustang]

I've been thinking the same thing... glut in the market, recession looming. Gonna be some good deals for folks who wanna live simply without taking selfies about it

[@StellaStarr-wb6ys]

Yesssssss this.

[@alchristensen8121]

@@cassidyv588 I'm keeping it. Replaced the engine and transmission and a few other parts, so I'm good for maybe another ten years.

[@keis1160]

😊smart man@@alchristensen8121

[@wolfmancole1908]

Little over a year ago i quit me job and did major research. Spent over a month on the road, starting in tx then, NM, AZ, UT, CO back to tx. Car camping made the most sense. Just drive to the hikes you want to do and camp out. Most nights were below freezing “except around central AZ. Coldest night was near grand canyon (7 degrees) But it makes building a fire even better. Was actually about to buy a van before the trip. But now it seems a 4Runner(or similar) with kayak/bike setup is the answer. since im cheap the trip cost me only 1k. and 450 of it was gas. Just make sure you have a goal in mind or traveling around starts to feel like wandering.

[@maddogmaz1576]

In the 80's I had a van with a couch i found on the side of the road. That's all I needed

[@ibez07]

the editing and production on this video is absolutely outstanding

[@reneeserrichio1616]

Awesome video! You really put some time into it and a lot of us appreciate the satire towards “van life” . I will tell you as a former RVer ( sold in the nic of time this January once I saw where gas was going) even though it made some amazing family memories - everything you own CAN feel like it owns you. My best memory last year was driving 10 hours to sleep in my “no build” 4Runner with a mattress and my 10 year old son listening to a creek on the outskirts of the Smoky Mountains. This year the 4Runner was traded for a RAV4 prime and my husband and I built a platform bed and it was one of the best date nights just going back to the basics. I felt more free just SUV camping and as a former “tent” camper I do have to admit it’s just too hot a lot of the year in Florida, not fun. I love how you brought it back to a trend though, super funny! I hope more creators on here start really living and showing how most people want to relate to one another and less really is more a lot of the time. 👏🏽

[@JonoGuapo4]

Holy Shit! This video blew my mind. I was going to get a van and build it out but the #vanlife seemed too fake. So now im just putting a bed in my jeep and hitting the road to visit skateparks around the country.

[@DanielRodriguez-hb3xm]

Dude same but instead of skateparks my thing is mountain biking and rock climbing.

[@SolVessel]

living in a jeep is short term, its very small and less comfortable, much harder to make a living out of too. if thats your thing then thats cool but obviously van life is for long term and is very convenient for working from, being able to eat from and shower from (its a home but with all the benefits of being able to travel in it)

[@brennananderson2400]

Vanlife isn’t dying for those who truly appreciate it but those who wanted to travel for cheap are starting to lose interest in it because it’s not for them

[@dougdoesstuff_uk]

My days, this piece of film maybe has the most beautiful colour grade I've ever seen. The production in your videos is INSANE! Love the work man, really digging your style! :)

[@evanhilton279]

Dude this production quality is insane, you need more recognition for this! earned my sub

[@QuestOutWest]

Bro.... your videos are AMAZING. Great editing. I love that you turned a tiny plant into a character and storyline. 👏👏👏

[@knolez1546]

My van has a single bed, clothes, and a gas cooker. That's all I need

[@Anna_Stetik]

Back in the 90s, a fellow college classmate spent an entire year living in a van. (So, these 'look at me' types didn't come up with anything special or genius.) He didn't do it for attention, he didn't do it to travel around the country, he didn't do it to pretend he was poor, he did it because he was poor and he wanted to get out of being poor. He went to school, worked a job, lived in his non fancy van, saved up every penny, and a year later, he cut his long, grunge band hair, wore 'successful office guy' shirts and pants, and bought a condo. Really nice, laid back guy, and I was proud of his sacrifices to get ahead. When these 'influencers' do that, then I'll be impressed.

[@AdventureTimeLoui]

The new trend is trying your darndest to live like your retired your whole life. I’ve been saying this since 2018. Not to pat myself on the back too hard 😂

[@branchsnapper2228]

Love the energy, creativity and high production values. This channel is going to be big!