Van Life Wisdom Don't Crash & Burn

Sadly, some people make the decision to become nomads and to live on wheels, but they are woefully unprepared for some of the problems that come up in this life. It isn't always easy or pleasant. The key is to be prepared for the worst and ready for hard times when they inevitably come. In this video, I give you some tips about how to be ready for difficulties you may face as a vandweller or RVer.
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Thanks for watching!

[@sanautin]

Fantastic video, and a much needed wake up call. I'm a single woman who's traveled to 14 countries alone, lived in 3 countries other than the US, lived out of a back pack for 10 years, and then a couple of years ago bought some land and built a tiny house (with the help of friends!) where I now live. While I'm totally fearless in most circumstances, I have a terrifying fear of traveling alone in my own country. Yet, that is exactly what I want to do when I retire in 7 years. How will I do this? Planning, saving, learning, facing the fears by going out on excursions alone in my car for now...AND by watching Bob videos!

[@robertstanley3253]

best of luck to you

[@sassysarina9718]

That's what I'm doing every weekend in my van. Short trips. I need to know what I don't need or know. It helps.

[@melodyjennings7782]

My mom was a can do gal who lived by the motto, "Can't be that hard!" You sound like a can do gal too! Your intuition will keep you safe if you pay attention!

[@rustyred459]

Grow up people ..... Bob is not responsible for you..... YOU are responsible for you ...... sticks and bricks or on wheels only you can make your life work......

[@jaimhaas5170]

In fact most people who are not good problem solvers will only encounter more they can not fix.

[@2busysecretary]

I'm not a nomad because I have two disabled grandsons that live with me and I must have a house for them... However I am fascinated by the subject and people who do live the nomad life. You have just shared amazing insight for anyone no matter where they are, and where they plan to go -- always live below your means, always have faith, and always be open to change.

[@haroldfitz5146]

Mr Bob, this was your most important video ever. Some people are not cut out for this lifestyle and they need help to realize that. An emergency fund of at least 3 months expenses is essential, as is a special fund of 2-3 grand to handle an engine or transmission overhaul. If one is underfunded, life on the road can be more stressful than staying put in a sticks and bricks. Good video!

[@jaimhaas5170]

Harold I also think this info could help about 90% of our country. They need to stop living a materialistic existence. Most of the WWII generation knew this.

[@haroldfitz5146]

jaim haas - I agree with you 100%

[@occipitalneuralgia2339]

Harold Fitz Bob said that amount is NOT ENOUGH. He said having around $10 grand was a good emergency expense fund. I agree.

[@patriciaalexander9751]

If your on ss. Why would you need 3 mo. Living expenses saved up? I do have a maintence fund of 7k. This is not what he was preaching a year ago

[@occipitalneuralgia2339]

patricia alexander wow, how fortunate YOU are! Many of us are not.

[@dalekundtz4603]

Thank you Bob for telling it like it is. Your advice about how to not crash and burn is just an honest assessment of real life. Most of us in sticks and bricks have never lived within our means. Most of us have lived with luxuries until we are forced to live without. We have to be honest with ourselves and make realistic decisions to make things work. Keep making the great videos!

[@caroldodson8258]

This was a great video Bob! Stressing on how important a good vehicle is needs to be a whole video! We fixed up our vintage travel trailer and headed to the RTR this past January and got as far as Tucumcari New Mexico before realizing we weren't going to make it because our Jeep was no match for those steep hills and mountains! I cried all the way home. We kinda lost our direction for a while but we are now refocused and saving for a really good truck. We have decided on a two year plan to get us off the sidewalks. So if you are thinking about this kind of lifestyle you really need to be prepared and don't jump the gun especially if you aren't prepared.

[@caroldodson8258]

@@mandosandradios Well we didn't want to burn our transmission up so heading back to Arkansas was the best decision. I wasn't about to be stuck without a vehicle. Lesson learned! Be prepared.

[@johnnyk7304]

Good call Carol we can be our own worst enemy at times. You chose to delay your dream to help in making it feasible. You"ll make it! Good luck and be strong!

[@caroldodson8258]

@Lizzy2shoes Good luck to you also! The timing just wasn't right even though I wanted it to be. Just keep your dream in mind and don't give up! Maybe we'll see each other down the road some day! Just keep your eye out for a vintage orange and white Shasta trailer!

[@Randylj1]

Excellent example and reminder. I've had to rethink my older Jeep as to towing a small teardrop trailer!

[@jwillyb870]

New Mexico will do it to ya!! I went through a very similar situation, the difference is I lost my vehicle had to salvage it because I couldn't afford the repairs and ended up homeless. On the streets in New Mexico. Not a good place to be.

[@denisefoster6865]

Bob, I know this video was done a few years ago, however, the monetary info is still very valuable, even when adjusting for inflation. Thank you.

[@rlavery3607]

It’s simple. LESS IS MORE!!!!

[@jimbear8888]

Expect the best and prepare for the worst.. Wise, wise words Bob. Thanks again for your honesty and for caring 🏜️ enough to put this out there.

[@pillarhomecaremalaysia4616]

Bob is one amazing guy.

[@jwillyb870]

VERY GOOD ADVICE! One of my favorite sayings ever "wherever you go, there you are"... You can't run away from yourself. So many people ignore and avoid all of their problems because they don't wanna think about it and try to run away from their problems instead of facing them and confronting them head-on. I learned all this the hard way on a trip across this country and ended up homeless in New Mexico stranded in the desert burning up and freezing cold with a broke down car that I had to scrap off to the salvage yard for chump change because I couldn't afford to fix it. So now I'm up shit's creek without a paddle/vehicle. Planning is EVERYTHING, and so is timing. The preparation for the journey is just as important as the journey itself. You can't control time or timing but you can control all the variables to make sure u got a backup plan when it does fail. Murphy's Law: if it can go wrong it WILL. and it will. So be prepared for it.

[@charlesreyna1788]

Every person new to this life must see this. It's an invaluable resource of the most direct and honest information.

[@louisemissouri4410]

I've practiced in my driveway. I've always been one of those researching people so I looked up videos that told the negative side of vandwelling as well as how good it can be. Just waiting to fix my 4 runner and then find a job as a campground host to get enough to make up the difference I need for emergencies. I think it really depends on you... If you do your research and do test runs in places around you on the weekends and keep a journal of what happens and then make sure you are truthful to yourself about the experience you will grow into it with open eyes.

[@mariodroguett6329]

Louise Florida /Missouri ro

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@paulallison6689 I lived in the wilderness of the Evverglades for over 50 years, believe me its more dangerous in my driveway here in Missouri. I've dealt with snakes and rats and it wasn't the wilderness that scared me it was living in a tight space but I've camped in the back of a pick up in the NC mountains and it was hot. Now if I can handle the cold with reflective mats and wool and polyester clothes I can handle the cooking and such. I'm pretty confident now with the survival skills I have and its just a matter of getting the vehicle road ready and comfortable, then the emergency fund. I have no problem solving problems, I don't get angry, I get creative. Thanks for your concern. I am journaling thru every scenario.

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@paulallison6689 LOL Yeah I guess I should have. I could be happy anywhere there aren't hurricanes and tornados. I raised a daughter without help on 8 to 10 dollars an hour. I'm a pretty resourceful woman. I just have had my share of people lying, cheating and stealing. It doesn't seem to happen in the tribe. I'm hungry to see the scenes I've watched on videos. Hoping my wanderlust won't push me to spend more money on gas than food. :)

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@SuperDeut4 Thanks, hope to meet you too one day. Take care

[@louisemissouri4410]

@@shamrockgirl6595 I don't believe in going blind into anything so serious. I've never been called stupid and don't want to start now. Thank you for your comment. Louise

[@ontheheap]

This is absolutely supberb. Truly a lifetimes worth of wisdom and truth in this video. Thank you for making this.

[@cynforrest]

Wise words and so true. Daily I remind myself: “The only thing I have control of is my Attitude! A reasonable attitude results in better life decisions”. Thanks for all your helpful videos. Hope to see you at RTR 2019.

[@dianacryder7523]

Do you really believe you control your attitude? How sure are you? Does the evidence support that idea? Have you questioned that thought diligently? The more we want to believe something, the more skeptical we should be about it. I've go news for you. You don't even have control of that much. Control is an illusion, a trick our minds play on us. The only thing we control is the information we absorb, if that. The better our information, the better decisions we'll make. But even that is mostly an illusion. The first 5 years are what formulate us and none of that was in our control. We need to stop judging and help each other better.

[@cynforrest]

Diana Cryder Wow! Some direct and harsh words. You’re certainly entitled to your own opinions - for that is what your statement is - an opinion. And that’s fine, but it’s not fact. Meanwhile I’ll enjoy my day, appreciate what I have, and be glad and grateful to be alive. I’ll do the best I can with what I have; I’ll work diligently to maintain a positive attitude.

[@dianacryder7523]

@@cynforrest I am direct and I only share *informed* opinions. But you'll learn from the school of hard knocks if knowledge offends you.

[@gladystoukie]

Good thoughts Bob!!! My dad used to say that, live below your means and I have!! That said, rv life not for me!!! I like amenities like a daily shower and a toilet💕👍

[@thuggoe]

The idea that people are writing you to complain about their decisions is a good indicator they are the real problem. I think its generous to even read this type of message. You need to be organized , high functioning and tolerant to live this lifestyle. For the people who end up paralyzed by fear why didnt they try it out first? Great editing by the way.

[@lillypatience]

I always learn something from you Bob. Even though I have no desire to go to the RTR or be part of a tribe, I always learn something applicable to my life from your videos and from the people you interview. For that reason only, you will be the first and only tuber I will donate to.

[@charlesparker2700]

On time and true to " life". Thanks Bob.

[@roadhog4948]

Bob, I believe this is your best video yet. Somebody had to say it. Thank you for your honesty.

[@wayneszwarcpersonal5762]

This is good advice for everyone. Living paycheck to paycheck is always a bad plan. Thank you Bob, for adding light to this subject.

[@thrash325]

the survivors are people like you that make a $77k vehicle out of $10k & that, is true value. thank you Sir Bob

[@SOFISINTOWN]

Great advice Bob. Everyone who follows you knows already that getting on the road unprepared is a guarantee for misery beyond repair.

[@jamesmoore3346]

I've got 64 years of lifes realities under my belt, including a life changing bout with lung cancer. Beat the cancer but the treatment beat me, lol. I'm still kickin and enjoying life with my family and friends....life has a way of putting little obstacles in your way, its how you handle these obstacles that define you......

[@mwilliams4545]

The Universe is space, it gives me nothing. everything I have I get from the Creator of the Universe.God bless you my brother. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with others.

[@hopeonthetrail6984]

Don't know if you see posts on an older video that you've put out but I'm watching this during the pandemic in Aug of 2020. I'd love to be out there with all of you but have obligations at home with job ( maybe back to it soon) and a 89 year old Mother. At this point in my life I can't make any physical plans for my retirement which may be next year if possible but I sure have itchy feet to be out on the road exploring. Thanks so much for all the great info to help those of us that may one day have the opportunity to do the same as you. I'm a planner so watching your videos which I've just started doing has given me lots to contemplate and continue saving toward. Living within and below your means is a much needed way of life that each of us should be doing anyway. Blessings to you Bob, Teri

[@warrioressm7855]

Glad you put this vid out there .... it’s true , all of it. It seems like a quick fix to life’s problems...get in a van and go, But it’s not the “complete” answer. Once you get IN the vehicle your rear view mirror is staring you right in the face. Instead of walking away from your problems you’re forced to face them head on..... I know this for a fact... I’m 2 months in a van and I’m disliking a lot about it but I took the plunge and I’m stuck going through with it. So now it’s “buck up” and deal with myself and make the best of it. All that to say... this video is absolutely 100% correct and had I seen THIS as I’m watching “you tubes” of happy people building vans and making it look so beautiful and desirable and EASY.... I wouldn’t have done it. At least not without more preparation. I pray that my future sees me “happiest” living in my van. Thank you Bob for making this video it needed to be made... I wish I’d have seen something like this 3 months ago. God Bless all you nomads out there that are making a good go of it. 🙏🏼

[@DavidGodley-n6j]

I continue to save as much as possible every month. I’m able to save about 7 to 800 a month. During Christmas for two weeks my van was in the shop for repairs. I stayed in a cheap motel during that time. I’ve recently quit smoking and that saves a lot of money. I often share these posts.

[@quieshehope1352]

Bob, once again beautiful positive attitude you carry. I pretty much believe the same way you do. The universe is awesome good tender place, yes bad things do happen in the world. The universe and the world are two separate mindful places. I hope you will always keep the beautiful way you see things - thank you for sharing yourself and thoughts. 💝

[@daveevans8256]

Great advice Bob thanks for sharing your thoughts with us all.👍🇬🇧

[@DottieStanley]

Best video so far that I have seen on your channel! I am getting my ducks in a row to hit the road in a van. I have the $ saved up and will purchase a low mileage van that I can afford when I trade my 2018 Chevrolet Trax in on it. I will be camping in my Trax in my driveway first and then going to a local state park to check out my tent. I will ease into this lifestyle slowly and do it within my financial means. Thanks so much!

[@candybrown3785]

It's about living simply when you decide to do this journey. Enjoying the things out in nature that is free. You don't even need a refrigeration system or ice cooler or a two-burner propane stove to cook with in order to eat well. There is can goods that are healthy beans vegetables can Meats or tuna pouches. There is dry goods such as nuts and seeds. There is fresh fruit that will last a long time. None of these foods needs to be heated up or refrigerated. Save your money and save space especially if you live in a car. If there's one luxury that you like for instance like coffee get a very inexpensive way to heat up water and use the pour over method to make it. If you have about $1,200 a month you could easily live on 400 for gas and food and pocket 800 a month for savings to have in case you have car repairs or to save for a bigger vehicle in the future if you're needing more room for comfort. If you live in a car just pack one suitcase with your Essentials you don't need tons of clothes ...a week's worth of clothes that's it wash them and repeat. Make it a fun experience like a goal or challenge to see how less of things can you live without and it will be like a great achievement and you'll realize how less we really do need in this life to live on. And then the rest will be just experiencing life freedom from having to go to work each day to pay the high rent an apartment or a mortgage. You have the freedom now to go and see all the things you wanted to do in life without all the restrictions of not being able to travel cuz you have to go to a job each day. I see so many people who appear on the outside with the fancy cars, big homes, toys, etc so miserable because they have to work 40+ hours a week to pay for those things. Freedom is PRICELESS!!!

[@dianeibsen5994]

Thank you Bob for this honest pep talk that we all should hear before deciding to head out on the road. Faith, hope and trust are things I am working on building. Love what you said about fear actually love all that you said very helpful. Thank you for the humor too, that was a fun Edition. I'm sure I'm not the first to say that I love your qualifications🤣 that's awesome😃

[@Veghead]

Best Video around. Perfect advice. Smart. Thoughtful. So many of us need to hear it. I live in a Van in So Cal. I’m employed & many things are a struggle. A positive attitude is the REAL DEAL - I’m just starting to upload neat adventures. Thank You Bob !

[@darkkrusher4151]

Hey Bob great video this is something that needed to be said because this lifestyle is a challenge but I rewarding when the challenge is met... I think u should also do one on the importance of hygiene and not looking like a sloppy bum while being a nomad! Not being nasty and smelly is important when dealing with others while being in a vehicle, plus it is important for personal health

[@darlenestout7548]

Wow. Great information Bob, you are a wise man. That was just what I needed to know. Thank you

[@kodeywhitewolf5756]

Reality check. Good for you Bob for putting this out there. Called a Wake Up Call for everyone. Thanks for putting this out there

[@kathleenmcbride1471]

Thanks for this great advice, Bob. Applies no matter where or how you live. Wisdom appreciated.

[@denisehosner3405]

This was so good to hear, thank you, Bob.

[@kariwick-InnerPeaceCoaching]

Happy happy Joy joy! I am in Michigan picking up my new to me 2007 Damon Daybreak class a motorhome!!! And then heading to Florida to teach some yoga and meditation! Thank you for all the helpful and inspiring videos/information, Kari

[@auntbealovesyou]

For many people these two issues affect them no matter where they are in life. Good video.

[@wgb_jd]

Excellent wisdom. Bob is keepin' it real.

[@violetlefae7902]

I'm going to eating disorder treatment before I go to the RTR for this very reason. I don't want to just run away from my problems by becoming a nomad, I want to face them head on first. Thank you for this video

[@angiewebb7538]

Thanks Bob for another perspective to consider. You told it like it is and there are so many pitfalls out there.

[@TheDeedwards]

Awesome advise. I turn my hair truck into my home. All that u said is true. I love my life now!!!😀

[@bluebertrand7113]

Great pieces of wisdom. You handed truth on a platter for all to take and implement. The Universe IS friendly. Bless you and all your team.

[@Love2Jump200]

Just what I needed to hear right when I needed to hear it. Thanks, Bob

[@tjpell68]

It also might help to talk to family and friends about the life you want to pursue. And if you are really unhappy about your current life and are looking to do this, talk to a counselor or LCSW.

[@Babsonthego4]

Yes, I did this bad decision,,, am stuck in Weatherford, TX. Working for full hook ups...

[@marielinejuillard9495]

I could live with the minimum and been happy on the road, it's my dream and I know I can do it but my husband want an expensive rv, I'll show him your video, I hope he'll change his mind !

[@justgivemethetruth]

Making drastic changes in behavior is doubly hard when everything in your life has been pulled out from under you. I've seen many of your videos and they are so great, and the people are so great, and it is very attractive opportunity to give the middle finger to fake normality, but like you said - wherever you go, there you are.

[@CarlJones14]

One point that Bob could make is that people need to (where possible) avoid letting things get to the point where they are desperate. People live just a couple of bad moves from disaster, usually lack of money.

[@1linkbelt]

,It"s about time you said it!

[@harold42501]

good advise no matter what your life style is

[@joemichaels9565]

This is the BEST video that you have EVER done, bar NONE!

[@FidoHouse]

Thank you, Bob. Some (many) of these things I needed to hear. Thank you for such plain-speak.

[@skeeterhennen9274]

I am so glad you made his video so all the naysayers on you tube can stop saying you have lied to us

[@annafyfe8361]

Best video yet!!!! Well said Bob!!!

[@garywells3874]

As always, well done Bob.

[@cathyann1601]

Outstanding video! A reality check! Good advice as always.

[@derykmacleod4979]

Great Video Bob! Yeah sadly some people think moving away will solve their problems need to talk to a professional. Now some problems it can cure, like if you prefer being in nature vs living in a city. You get to retire and no more working!

[@kcross882]

You gave a powerful message in this video! Thank you.

[@adequatebus8280]

Thanks, Bob. solid counsel for anybody, regardless of lifestyle or circumstances. - C

[@gettinsumsunmld]

That was a good one Bob. From the title I thought it might be on van maintenance and trying to prevent breakdowns on the road. This was much more important to address. Nice job!

[@jewell7768]

The very best video yet for this time and culture. I’ve witnessed too many who would not be so deeply in their current sad situation if only they truly understood what their needs were, versus their wants. Maybe there would be a few less living on the edge if they understood the principles you covered in this video. Kudos to you for sharing.

[@grayfoxdan3982]

Good advice Bob let me add: A happy person is not a person in a certain set of circumstances but is a person with a good attitude - can't remember who said that but I know it's been part of my life for over 35 years. Also, for me to be one with nature I like to whittle and carve - idol hands is the devils work shop - something passed on to me by my grandmother in the 50's LOL!

[@pkkenncor]

The best advice ever.... Thumbs up!!!!

[@sonjasleeper1511]

Not planning to give up, plan is to explore the US for a year or two. Watching to see what to expect

[@justgivemethetruth]

just a guy who lives in a van and poops in a bucket. Bob, just my opinion, but from what I've seen you are a hell of a lot more than that bro!

[@markpeatrowsky3023]

Well said, Mr. Wells.

[@kimberlyhoffman1828]

Thanks Bob I think One MUST BE A CAN DO TYPE PERSON

[@tmad5358]

Among the most important works you've done!

[@MotoGiant]

Good start on ALL the problems of the road, I imagine this will be a 30 part series? 😀

[@Daave12953]

Very practical video...that being said most nomads could have used this before they headed out

[@MrAndycm]

Great insight Bob!

[@Pack.Leader]

Tough love. Good video full of great truth. We all need to hear it.

[@kerryloper6142]

As usual another great video Bob!!! Very informative topic. 👍🏼

[@dusttodust4295]

Thank you for the good advice.

[@Mc.flyyy11]

This video is a homerun. Well done and well said. Exactly how I feel, just about life stuff in general.

[@cynthiatx]

This sounds like Bob has changed! However, I thought a lot about it but i decided I like to travel but not all the time. So that was my decision plus grandchildren.

[@MrSlicer2424]

"I'm just a man that lives in a van that poops in a bucket " Omg that needs to go on a Tshirt!!

[@sanautin]

Indeed! It's right up there with that Einstein quote. :)

[@jacquelinecellian8939]

I literally just laughed out loud when he said that! ❤😂

[@celestynasgarden3729]

Lots of wisdom, Bob.

[@brnt034]

My adventure starts tomorrow! Wish me luck!! :D

[@seankerrigan2721]

This is a great informative video Bob. I saved it

[@richharty4721]

BEAUTIFUL! THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH😊

[@DavidDrivesElectric]

This is a very good and important video!

[@glennleatherman2843]

sound advice Bob, You can't be any more clearer

[@mahdiomran6345]

i like your wisdom bob.. thanks

[@patriciadunne3384]

Great message

[@alainarchambault2331]

Hmm, I'm already living in a trailer, immobile. Paying $400 a month for my hookups. Currently making $3000 a month. Retiring at 70 would give me half that. Way I see it, I have ten years to plan for emergencies. Also, I'm going to do my own build, and it's going to be sturdy. As in, the way RV's and trailers are designed to be lightweight tends to add to maintenance problems, e.g. plastic plumbing and water pressure spikes. I plan on going old-fashioned and put in soldered copper piping whenever possible.

[@onebullet6384]

Good video Bob very true

[@sinfullyblondie]

Great Advice Bob really enjoyed that :)

[@tinavestal2154]

Very exellent advice and a very good reason (in my opinion), to consider part-timing as opposed to full-timing in the beginning. As much as I would like to be going full time, I also realize that at this point it would be financial suicide for me. Another great point that Bob made is keeping things small and manageable; this is important for women especially.

[@deborahkimball-billups6405]

Thank you bob . But some people only have that . 5 000 and 3 000 for a van with 2 000 emergency fund

[@toddlafond2920]

Great advice Bob, thanks for sharing it with us.

[@thegollydang]

Best video yet!!!!!

[@devilproof29]

Brilliant!! Great video Great advice!! From a guy who lives in a van and poops in a bucket!! Thanks again Bob!

[@danielblanchard6487]

Thank you

[@sherryg1838]

Excellent topic. Very well said.

[@fidentia10]

Always realistic and such great info, can't wait to thank you in person at the rtr!