Van Life YouTubers Are Full Of SH*T! (influencers exposed)

[@jsmith3427]

I'm a true nomad, and he is talking about the KZbinrs, NOT us real nomads. The KZbinrs, and I camped with most of them as they came and invaded our spots, are mainly scammers. 99% OF THEM! They're entitled, arrogant, and care not who is in the background of their videos. They would come and park right smack dab in the middle of the only spot with a view over the river, or mountain, or lake, and block it from everyone else who was camping there. Most have their own land that they go to for respite between "nomadic outings," and many stay in hotels. They make nomadic life look glamorous, fun, and adventurous, but it is VERY HARD WORK!! VERY!! And it is NOT CHEAP!! It's a perpetual dirty camping trip you NEVER GET TO COME HOME FROM! He is spot on. The expenses are oftentimes exhorbitant: vehicle repairs and upkeep are constant, propane & gasoline are expensive, food is also expensive because you are rarely near a Walmart or Costco, and even if you are, you can't stock up on the cheaper bulk priced items. Water is rarely free unless you drive long distances to a public pump, but then the cost of gas to get to that free pump costs more than paying to fill your water jugs in your current location. Dumping your porta potty or your tanks is the same issue as water. Solar power is expensive to start up, and the batteries must be replaced every couple years. Cleaning the panels is a frequent job, bc they must be maintained so they work properly. Also, if you've got solar panels attached to the roof of your vehicle your "stealth camping" abilities are NON EXISTANT. Every cop and ranger KNOWS who you are, as does every thief. Being a nomad is NOT cheap, and it isn't safe either. I've had MANY attempted break ins while I've been inside my vehicle, and the only thing that drove them away was hearing the cocking of my shotgun and a clear vocal warning to "LEAVE or else I'm blowing a hole right through that door you're touching!" If you have ANY type of chronic health problem, this life will make it worse, and finding a physician and a pharmacy on the road is nearly impossible, and you will pay cash, because insurance only pays for doctors in your residence area. There is no such thing as "nomad medical insurance," except Medicare, and you only get that if you're disabled and elderly, which in my opinion, those demographics should not be nomads. Anyway...he tells the truth. The KZbinrs are full of it. Real nomads can't stand them.

[@WillandRambo]

Pinning this comment.

[@raider7829]

Very interesting! Thank you.

[@raider7829]

@@WillandRambo Thank you for being straight up and honest!!! Now people have a choice with KNOWLEDGE!

[@naomisims7230]

Yes, & you need to be diligent about people you socialize/deal with on the road. Be friendly, but cautious & strive not to appear overly dependent or unsure of yourself. Naitivity aside, people are not always honestly forthright about who they are & some are very good actors. Develop the skills of a detective, don't ignore those red flags, & don't trust anyone until they prove themselves to you. I'm not a prude, but excessive indulgence can mean trouble, & you can become an innocent pawn/victim of a scam. Develop that intuition & refuse to be placed in a position where you could be set up for a fall.

[@MrSeanG-of1zc]

I met a bunch of KZbinrs and they have all been fake. They only come out of their rig to shoot some quick video and then go hide. They all think they’re famous and can’t be bothered. They need to be exposed.

[@Archtops]

Yes, it isn’t easy. I lived in my split window VW Bus in 1970. I really loved it and had wonderful experiences but when I finally got an apartment with my new wife in 1972 I was very happy to have a real kitchen and bath. I never looked back. BTW this will be our 50th wedding anniversary in November.

[@bugout1895]

Congrats dude! 50 years is awesome!

[@sixteen.candles.4644]

Wow congrats

[@LilyGazou]

Well done!!!!

[@hearingeyes9129]

🍾🎉Congratulations on your 50th...50 more!🥂

[@Shannonontheroad]

Congratulations! Van life in the 70s was completely different.

[@jamesaa007]

This is KZbin. People love to spin a good yarn about almost anything. During the first 'wave', every van life KZbinr was showboating about van life. Now the second wave has come where they all berate it.

[@brandy_lish]

so true! one youtuber will do some diff spin on the norm, an then 20 more videos pop up within a week! it’s all about copying o guess

[@habituallinestepper8839]

Exactly

[@DonnyUtton]

@@brandy_lish yeah it's now a trend for break-in attempts while they are in a van filming, secretly acting of course, or it's just the week when everyone in a van gets broken into or attempted.

[@J_Trask]

The KZbinrs I see doing van life videos romanticize it, and make videos that are very much geared toward social media like Instagram. The whole point I suppose is to make money from followers.

[@humanbeing8557]

So trueeeeee bro i love you man

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

I watched Bob Wells for years and thought I can do that! I lived in a camper about 2 months on my own property and decided that it was not for me. You don't know the reality of it until you do it yourself. The propane runs out in the middle of the freezing rain. You can hear everything outside, EVERYTHING. Cooking is a big mess. Nope, I cured myself of that. Only way I could do it again is if it were in one of those 250k motor homes with a driver/maintenance person on board.

[@WillandRambo]

Don’t think this video isn’t about him either.. He makes loads of income from KZbin and special events in which he is popular with the REAL VL community (the homeless).. they ALL do KZbin because they will not be functional humans without real jobs otherwise so they pretend to love living in a tiny box and pretending to be happy. It's all an act folks. They are wasting their lives when they can use the money to live well.

[@anniesshenanigans3815]

@@WillandRambo he did this years before you tube.

[@BiKEnBiTES]

He seems like a stalker

[@minigirl6839]

​@@WillandRamboSo true! He and Carolyn are the biggest charlatans of them all.

[@Sinnerboy88]

Same with me. It looks great on KZbin. Then you try it yourself and it's far from all it's made out to be. I spent two years in a camper.. I don't look back on it fondly.. it was more like like two years in a Siberian gulag. It's like a furnace in the summer and an icebox in the winter.. if you open the place up in summer to let some air in it's full of insects and spiders.. and as for winter, well you've not felt cold until you've lived in a tin box camper in December.. I swear if I left some tea in the bottom of a cup it'd be frozen solid in the morning. I had to spend most of the time wrapped up inside a sleeping bag with the electric blanket on.. I couldn't' even get out it was so cold.. not to mention the general, cold dampness.. and maintenance on the damn thing trying to keep everything right is a full time job. Especially with an older one.. there's a lot of wood in them so if in a damp climate or a leak or something you're gonna be dealing structural issues.. keeping floors right etc. And it's by no means cheap either.. you can't heat the damn things as the heat doesn't stay in them like a house with insulated cavity wall and double or triple glazing.. soon as you turn the heat off it's freezing again in ten minutes. So you're running a combination of expensive gas, fuel or electric heaters.. all of which are gonna cost some serious money in the long term. It's difficult to keep clean.. you have no real hygiene facilities.. you can't wash yourself, you can't wash your clothes.. mine even had a shower but the cost to heat the water wasn't worth it. Like you say, the sound is ridiculous. It would drive anyone insane. Like if you're a night owl you can forget about sleeping in the day time. It's like you're inside a huge amplifier and even someone closing a bin lid 500 yards away sounds like an explosion. Smells outside? Well you're gonna get those too. If there's a farmer spreading cow poop or chemicals in a nearby field.. well your camper is gonna be full of it too. Honestly, my experience with it is that it's a constant pain in the ass. I'm not saying everyone's will be the same. It could be done but it's just.. making everything more difficult and actually more expensive I feel, if the objective is to save money I don't it's a good option (at least in my area, it'd be cheaper to rent a house and heat it.. maybe different if you like in NYC or something) It might work if you had the right facilities or maybe the perfect, modern camper.. but that's gonna cost A LOT of money too, which could be spent on a real home. I'm not saying my outfit was ideal.. but even so it was as good if not better than some of these KZbinrs saying they live in their all the time. I feel they're okay for a weekend break in the summer sure.. but full time living? Not for me thanks. I done it and I feel it's not all it's made out to be.

[@RB-gx4qg]

I understand your perspective. I am an over the road trucker, i travel all 48 states. And I actually love my career. Professional Semi Truck Van life! I am an introvert like you say. If I vlogged, which is too much of an extroverted thing for me to do. It might appeal to people who are stuck in a circular lifestyle. To the office back home, to the same places in their city over and over. I think the key is balance. While I'm isolated for more than average people. It's peaceful for me...and when I enter into society again, it's an exciting joy to be in the hussle and bustle. However. It drains me and I re-enter my solitude like a refreshing shower. I don't think its everyone not being authentic on youtube. It's hard to tell who is and isn't. Oh, and take a tip from a trucker. You can always park at rest areas and truck stops to sleep over night, if you can't find something exotic.

[@MrPHart]

@@1DrBar Makes two!

[@Victor-tl4dk]

Cool, thanks for your insight. And, yes, it is very hard to tell whose being truthful on KZbin. You have do it by fact and not by looks, because actors are very, very good at what they do. At the same time, though, your Rig made you money so it's a little different. That was your job. It's like the professional KZbinrs LoL. Most people going into this are going to spend money on it- not directly make.

[@julielea8344]

Thanks!! Much Love

[@amyhill5439]

I lived in a semi truck for over. 5 years without keeping a house or an apt to take time off in. But I loved it and would do it again in a second .

[@enigmathegrayman2953]

I once slept in the back of my Jeep Wrangler at a truck stop near Cedar City Utah right off I-15, I enjoyed it.

[@debVan1363]

I have a feeling some of these "van life" influencers don't live in their van as much as they claim. There were a few young couples with popular YT channels on van life and turns out they live with their parents most of the time. So the have a full time home, but basically pretend they live full time out in their van. One even raffled their van off to some "lucky" fan and it was almost completely in operable. The new couple took it out and only made it a short way into their trip before they were stranded with a broke down vehicle. So obnoxious of people like that. Thanks for being honest!

[@WillandRambo]

Haha wow!!! Bunch of phonies and fakes.. remember bear Grylls? He too, pretended to sleep outdoors next to grizzly bears but meanwhile had a hotel nearby for himself and his crew.. it’s TV and people will put on a show. KZbin is no different.

[@fckjb284]

I would say MOST are phonies. I laugh at the fools that send them money, and fall for the patron scam. There's one that's particularly disgusting called Nomadic -------, he's a real con artist and a grifter, and thousands of gullible people idolize him.😖

[@thepowellpark]

Thanks for all the idea for my next "van-scam". lol

[@stardustismyhomespaceshipt3719]

I’m not saying that those people who sold the van were being truthful on their yt channel, but if they were travelling around in it for a really long time (and let’s say if the van was old too), then couldn’t it have been broken down?

[@lindajohnson1873]

@@stardustismyhomespaceshipt3719, yes, but why give broken stuff to someone else? Just throw it away or donate it to someone who knows that it’s broken (and is willing to fix it).

[@censoredeveryday3320]

The cost of a van/rv really put me off, so I simply just decided to travel around with short term rentals (airbnb) in areas I wanted to explore. It has kept the costs down, no long term leases, and no expensive van purchases.

[@veronicaspivey3479]

And to continue on your thoughts how about outfitting temporarily a Nissan truck? $2000 one time for ever more and have all the niceties one can desire whenever I want? Ahh…ain’t life great! ❤😂

[@Gh0stInTheMachines81]

How was Airbnb?

[@stj971]

@@Gh0stInTheMachines81 I think they're overpriced and it's like having a landlord and they all suck! I had a really negative experience trying to do a first time air bnb. Guess I asked too many questions about how much the fees were? Seems they don't like to discuss that, guy got all snotty w me for asking. No thank you.

[@balthazarquinn]

@@stj971 have you compared the cost of airbnb with that of hiring a fully furnished campervan? is there much difference in price? (Assuming you can find places to park in the area you want to explore.)

[@ARF.Racing]

@Joe Thibodeau bought my E350 extended van back in 2015 for $3800. If you dont need new and are able to remove seats and install your own bed etc, you'll find a deal.

[@ClairenParkerontheRoad]

I actually find that I'm out and about and around others more now in my van than I ever was off isolated in an apartment.

[@mireyarodriguez4490]

I agree it's the opposite

[@tracy2762]

thats right.4 walls can be like a jail cell.

[@dani_mack]

And how are you managing that? I've reached out to the FB groups I'm in to see where people might be hanging out without much luck (mostly timing), so I've been completely alone on the road for 2 months. I'm an extrovert and I'm dying out here.

[@cubemissy]

In my home, I can establish a nest on the couch, and just never leave it. A van would just end up being a bigger nest…and would tank my emotional state.

[@Jana-ly6th]

Eh isolating yourself in your apartment was a choice right? So basically either way it`s your choice to be out and about or stay in the house isolated. However, for some introverts being in the house is bliss.

[@cindygirlification]

I traveled around Australia with a Canadian girl in a van and never thought it was about living in a van. It was being close to someone I loved while we experienced the majesty of the country together.

[@OldLadyInFL]

As long as you live OUTSIDE your van most of the time and just sleep inside the van, you're fine. The exception, of course, being during inclement weather. I have friends who live in vans and they spend very little time actually in the van unless they're camping, and even then, some have nice tents they stay in when stationary. The van is to get from here to there and to sleep in. It isn't meant to be the place you live in, unless you can afford an RV with climate control and space to just hang out and be your introvert self.

[@mjohnson1741]

Beautiful! Then the van experience worked for you.

[@lavapop1900]

@@OldLadyInFL what if you're the opposite and you just want to be in your van all the time is there anything wrong with that?

[@ChrisW228]

There’s no right or wrong with any of it. Different strokes. I always appreciate seeing all sides of a thing. It does turn me off, though, when someone presents their experience as end-all-be-all and the only “true representation”.

[@larakaramazova777]

@@lavapop1900 Do what makes you at peace.just don't hurt anyone else doing it. ☮️

[@thearcticspiral]

I think the biggest shock to van lifers is most come from renting, where a lot of the homeowner responsibilities are taken care of or just a phone call away. Van life moves you straight into a homeowner mentality, where you have to do it all yourself, which can come as a big shock to anyone who has lived in apartments their entire life (or their parents house)

[@BiKEnBiTES]

Except a Vehicle doesn't earn equity

[@imitation100]

@@BiKEnBiTES I suspect property in the US wont be gaining in value over the next few years too.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@imitation100 Temporary

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

i moved out of my parents house at age 16 and never went back. I am astonished at all the 20 and 30 somethings today living with Mom and Dad. They are lucky the Mom and Dad can afford to support them.

[@RamenKing2023]

I was thinking about vanlife but I need more space. I’m fine being alone. So I just went out and brought a 40 foot sailboat to live on. I know there are drawbacks just like with vanlife. Still this is the path I have chosen.

[@kateburk2168]

Envy you. That was a dream for me in the mid to late 70s. We had friends that lived on a 42' cabin cruiser. Most of the time, they were tied up at a dock. He'd do odd jobs like repairs and maintenance around the docks while she went in for her office job. In 2017, the vanlife/nomadic life style appealed to me just as quickly.👍

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

Just never lean over the side of the boat in a storm!!

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

@@kateburk2168 I'd take the boat!

[@michellecastaneda4104]

I live in my van therefore I have to make a few comments, I live in a 2015 Ford transit extended high roof the biggest van and engine that Ford makes. I don’t have any 50.000 dollars in it much less 100,000. It runs great. But I stay on top of the maintenance. I camp in forest woods deserts lakes, I like people and being around them and on the other half I don’t. So I have no problem doing van life both ways. After nine years of lots of van living and traveling I honestly have to say the only downfall I see about this lifestyle is, It can get extremely boring. I have a cassette toilet and sure it’s a hassle to dump, it generally takes me anywhere between five and 10 minutes. But going to work eight hours a day is much harder. Yes it takes time to move every two weeks, but much less time than working eight hours a day 40 hours a week, Yes I have to set up a shower tent outside and boil water, but much less time than going to work every day for eight hours 40 hours a week, yes it takes a little longer to cook and clean it all up, but much less time than going to work eight hours a day 40 days a week. Van life does come with its challenges, but just as many is working eight hours a day 40 days a week dealing with bosses neighbors and house maintenance. So anytime I get tired of dumping my toilet boiling my water or setting up my shower tent, or even look for new camping spot, I always remind myself of this one thing, twice a month I have to move do laundry grocery shop dump my toilet and fill my water tanks. On average that’s a five hour to a six hour day twice a month. So I exchanged a lifestyle of working five days a week to working two days a month. The rest of the time I do what I want. Again to me the worst part of Vanlife is boredom. I would suggest not doing this lifestyle in a vehicle older than 3 to 4 years. And make sure you take hobbies with you. Thank you for your video.

[@naomisims7230]

Nailed it, Michelle!

[@abeautifulcountry9353]

Very good way of putting it, it's all about perspective. Thank you.

[@Patrick_Gray]

I owned an automotive air conditioning and radiator repair shop for 30 years. We were open 5-1/2 days a week for years (50 hr work week). I only took off one week a year for vacation and another week of days. Yes I liked working but I dreamed about the freedom you have with van life.

[@fishhuntadventure]

Soooo… how do you earn money to eat and what about once you get old? And need to retire? What income will you have then.

[@MrPHart]

@@fishhuntadventure

[@markmcdaniel304]

Van life was created by necessity of not being homeless in a tent. Vans ,cars, whatever someone has to live in. Now people that have other options and are just playing around will have another attitude about doing it. It's like eating homeless camp food just to try it out compared to being hungry and have to eat it.

[@Warren-ec8oo]

Or just to get away from a weak divided society that is brainwashed and dumbed down to obey a group of Corp Nazi fascist owners of aMErika. Now Mask up and obey... And close only small businesses and now good businesses are now hurting or homeless. I can say that aMErika is a dump these days on purpose by the elite Corps, govts and the weak masses that obey the lies.

[@carltonthepug]

Is living in a tent considered homeless? I lived in one for almost 6 months and it was my home. Home isn’t determined by brick and mortar.

[@user-pf3mi7np1y]

Not for me. I actually am homeless and living in mine fulltime and working. I don't have a family and I have been through homelessness more than once in my lifetime and for long periods of time. I have had to learn to adapt in order to survive. I have also conditioned myself to withstand the weather what do I mean by that; basically by staying out in it until my body becomes used to it through high heat and humidity to freezing cold temps. It can be a living hell believe me but in the long run you will be that much tougher for it. You will be able to withstand much more than the average person can. I can go without a coat or any heavy clothing to stop the cold and winds. And I have learned how to lower my body temperature without air-conditioning or fans of any kind. I take shade or shelter from the rain wherever I find it in the summer I hang out at public parks where there are a lot of shade trees and other structures to cast shadows there are also covered picnic tables where I sit. I have learned to distance myself from the environment around me by putting my mind in a different by place than my surroundings. I live in mine because it isn't a big deal to me at least not like it was when I started out being homeless when I had no vehicle to sleep in. I slept on the ground or on sidewalks or park benches, behind dumpsters in abandoned buildings hell believe it or not I even slept under a freaking house where an old man was still residing. I don't need a house or an apartment to make it. If I need shelter it is all around me for free such as public libraries, bus stations, churches, hospital waiting rooms, bars, gyms, and other places. The thought of paying for a place to live is absurd to me. I have been homeless for much of my life starting at a very young age living like a stray dog and I have realized that I don't really need a home or a building around me I will be just fine whatever comes my way. And in the end when the sh*t hits the fan it will be people like me who are left standing.

[@6Haunted-Days]

Yea this channel is beyond annoying…..he’s just faking drama cuz now he’s bought ANOTHER VAN….and I guess is done wah wah wahing about it and wants to do it again….why? What TF

[@Vanillawaffer07]

@@user-pf3mi7np1yHonestly, you need a stable home. Working is good for you. You need a healthy and normal living environment.

[@ndevera100]

I agree with everything you said. My friend and I traveled for a year all over North America in a small brand new truck with new over the head camper. It was a lot of fun, this was many years ago before this van life craze started. I know right away that this phase is not going to last long. We spent every penny we had in our savings account and by the time we finished we were tired and ready to settle down in one place and start working again. We didn’t run into major problems, not even a car breakdown because our car was brand new. Mexico was inexpensive, we just pulled over wherever we wanted and spoke with the natives and the cops and they all let us stay sometimes for weeks. Then we moved on to the US, and money started to just pass by our hands quickly, things became expensive, then all over Canada which was even more expensive especially the gas prices. We gave ourselves a year to travel. Then this van life became a fad, and I knew it won’t last very long, unless you’re homeless and don’t have any choice but live in a car, which we know there are many in this country. Now I travel here and abroad, mainly abroad, and when I travel here I’m equipped with everything I needed to camp, I know my resources, I know where to camp free, and I know how to be safe whether I’m camping in the city or in remote areas. There are things to be learned from this vanlife phase and they can use them in the future when they go back to traveling…. Without giving up their permanent homes and jobs.

[@sam9067-p8s]

Thanks for the realistic version of things. I rocked out of a van out of necessity for a good 7-8 months. There's alot of work involved. I would clean the van out every 3 days because clutter gets out of control. I turned into a snowbird. You go north during summer, south during winter. Alot of work. Constant risk of breaking down. Your car is your life. When it goes down you're left treading water. It's hard to find bathrooms. Due to the goofs vandalizing public bathrooms it's actually a bit tricky. If I was setting up in a spot I would get a monthly sub to a YMCA or a gym. You have to play musical sleeping lots since people start to recognize you. Karen is your biggest enemy. It's a big hassle. Once you've been recognized expect to have the cops nocking on your windows in the AM to say hi. Truckers are your best friend for finding sleeping spots. They've been at this for quite a bit longer than you have. Just don't park right next to them to stay off their sus radar. You need to sleep with an eye half open. I've had goobers messing with the car while I slept inside. There are some bad actors in play so you need your bunny ears up.

[@weedpuller2000]

You nailed it!

[@butwhole4186]

Messing with the car in what way?

[@sam9067-p8s]

@@butwhole4186 LOL It was one of the more scary ventures. I had stopped in a trucker stop gas station and parked in the small vehicle spots off to the side to stay out of the way. My psych had prescribed me night time meds and I had taken them. I wake up in the aim hearing some dude stomping his feet outside my ark mumbling about me being in his parking spot. I was groggy from the medications and knew I couldn't fight him so I pretended to sleep. The guy commences to keying my 20 yo rust bucket. Thusly improving the paint job. While muttering to himself about "ducking" me up. He left when some truckers passing by yelled at him. The parking spaces were all open. I think dude man was high or decided it was a good time to mess with someone. My psychiatrist is still upset with me when I refuse to take his meds.

[@OldLadyInFL]

The whole bathroom thing is what turned me off to trying van life. I may still do it, but might just move to Mexico instead....maybe in a van. LOL Hey, gotta get my stuff down there, right?

[@carmenmartinez2882]

@@OldLadyInFL that’s what my plan is, I already have a place in Baja by the Sea of Cortez but in the summer it gets super hot, therefore summertime my intentions are to return to camp in the Sierras for a few months or camp out by the Pacific, coming back home afterwards.

[@tc1081]

There are a lot of nomads that absolutely love it. Not all are introverts, some are quite social. And travel in groups and caravans. The life isn't easy and totally care free, but neither is living in a stationary structure. I think it comes down to what is important to you personally. There are many nomad KZbinrs who fell in love with the life style well before making videos. If they learn to hate anything it's the demand of making the videos that takes away from enjoyment of living nomadic. I'm sorry you didn't find you nitch in van life, it's not a one size fits all. Good luck.

[@wanderinlife68]

I agree what works for some. Does t work for others. I loved it. Can’t wait to get back to it. I could just as easily be honest about living in a house in a one spot all the time.

[@lifebeginstoday10]

Very insightful and so true.

[@Maria-yu1xq]

So true. Living in sticks and bricks it’s far more stressful for me.

[@dentray]

Eyes brows go up when I see someone talking to themselves with go pro in hand when I am out and about enjoying my trip. Yes, I am a "Grey Nomad" when I can be :)

[@julielea8344]

Like the 60's, right?

[@GotMountains]

I'll agree that most don't show the real side of vanlife, but we love you show the uncomfortable parts. Guys like Foresty Forest do an amazing job of not hiding the reality of it all.

[@geraldkoth654]

There is a middle ground between constantly moving and living in a park for very long terms. I travel full time and have for the last 12 1/2 years. My best investment was a Thousand Trails membership. Three weeks at a time free and park to park. The parks are not all over the country but you can spend years visiting all those that are available. From time to time I paid for my week out of a particular park. Usually did that twice in the same park. That way I could spend 11 weeks in a park for the price of two weeks. And as a member I got a discount on the weekly rate. I have never spent a night while not visiting relatives, where I camp in the driveway, in anything but an RV park. I am not in a van either. I have a Travel Trailer and pickup truck to pull it.

[@derrickt5630]

I did urban vandwelling for a year in Denver with no insulation and worked a full time job. It fitted me like a glove and I was never happier. I still hung out with my friends even though they thought I was crazy. I would still be doing it if it wasn't for COVID. My gyms closed as well as my eateries. I was living in a minivan.

[@janasher4940]

I could definitely live in my van if I stayed parked in a city and had a job. The worst part of van living is no access to running water and toilets, having to find a new place to park every night, and not seeing your friends or maintaining meaningful relationships.

[@AssBlasster]

"Urban vandwelling in the major city of Denver" that's a nice way to describe homeless with extra steps. Idk I just can't see any upside with that way of living in a CITY

[@angel0island0ninja]

Save $1000s a month instead of paying rent? Especially in Denver....

[@BigTroubleD]

My biggest concern is finding somewhere legal to stay so I won’t have to worry about the knock.

[@IWillSmurfYou]

​@@BigTroubleD public land? Duh

[@jeffreymckenney6415]

I've spent many comfortable nights inside my vans while traveling but can honestly say I can't imagine living that lifestyle for more than a few days at a time. Spending those nights mostly at interstate rest stops have afforded me free access to bathrooms, which on short trips is probably the most important thing, but everything else can be a pain in the rear. Congrat's to those who figure out a way to enjoy the lifestyle.

[@Sweet_Southern_Pecan]

Thank you for the video. I have been more curious about, how safe is it living in a van? To be honest, I be so nervous seeing some of these solo van lifers out in secluded places.

[@shaunna6673]

Thank you for your honesty! Much appreciated.

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

Thank you SOOO much for exposing these things!! You are so correct - NO one of the YT van life YTbers ever ever talk about these things. I have never heard of "grey water tank". I never knew until you just explained it here!! Just the aspect of no real toilet plumbing flushing capability alone makes me NEVER want to do the van life. I dont do RV travel, camping in the woods, or overnight hiking in woods. I NEED a real flushing toilet. I dont want to compost it, bury it, carry it, or dispose of it. YUCK. And when I take a shower, brush my teeth, clean my food and cook my food, I do NOT want to have to dispose of the "grey water"!! NO NO. I love my home! I love travel and staying in resorts. I dont think I can do the off grid thing unless there is a huge septic tank. I appreciate it. Also, I need a comfy bed and space. Space space. I agree with you that YTbers do it for the income!! Selfish You rock!!

[@patriciabandeko3842]

I've decided against a van for my retirement. Instead, I'll be looking for a used class c . The first thing I've been arranging is a list of support people and researching the products that will the most important and effective. I also have friends in different places in the West/Southwest that have undeveloped land that they've already given me permission to boondock on. I don't want to wander around not knowing if I'm unwelcome to park. Planning for this lifestyle will, hopefully, cut down on difficulty. Respecting the landowner and their land is of utmost importance at all times.

[@missroxanne7123]

A lot of the van and RV and tent people I watch do show those real life daily struggles and they talk about them. That’s part of what makes them so interesting. It’s not all beautiful views that smells like roses.There are issues living in a house like HVAC, sewage systems, toilets, roofs, etc.... And I think your right about it being easier if your a loner. Absolutely. Cause if your not that could be rough.

[@MrPercipience]

His what is a loner?

[@narlywaves2371]

You dont understand...they are fake too.

[@julielea8344]

@@narlywaves2371 Are you claiming to be psychic now? You know exactly who she's referring to, what they said, & you were either there with them,all of them, or you're psychic. Or you are just a immature liar who has to hate on someone to make yourself feel better. Society is horrible.

[@dani_mack]

Extrovert here. I've only been on the road for 2 months and it's been extremely isolating so far. 😞

[@fallerstephan9976]

I want a van build like yours to use for surf trips, but living full time would be super challenging. Kudos to you for trying it out!

[@bdavison31]

I think this video is very helpful for those who haven’t thought it out much past what they see on some and I say, some, #Vanlife KZbin channels. I certainly follow vanlifers that do cover these aspects that you’ve mentioned though, and OMG, the number of times a day that the vacuum comes out. I’ve sadly watched one solo female vanlifer have to drive for hours because none of the Cracker Barrels in that state allowed overnight parking - something she’d come to rely on if she had to be in the city. I’m glad you’re doing something now that you are better suited to. Good on you for trying it out!

[@bobbyjfromtheuk1]

That girl was a nightmare. She wouldn't consider spending $10 on a camp site.

[@neilhalpern5848]

Although I did not live in a van, I did live in a travel trailer for over a year. Planning is key, even if you stay at RV parks, getting there at night once the office is closed is very stressful. I can’t tell you how many times I would arrive in a town, locate an RV park, and find out the spots available are extremely difficult to maneuver by yourself in the dark. Fuel for my tow vehicle was ridiculous as you are lucky if you get eight MPG. This was also back before smartphones and Wi-Fi. There are some great benefits but as William says, a lot of challenges.

[@gloriabhendrix1940]

I am glad you mentioned your dog “Rambo” at the end of your vid. I was just about to ask about him and why was he not seen in this vid. He is usually always with you and makes an appearance!!

[@valeriebelmonte9556]

Thanks for your honesty! The bathroom situation alone would count me out!

[@sandradummer4726]

Probably myself as well. It sounds interesting but..there to much to consider that you have to deal with and if any one can. Go for it.

[@christieelee]

I have been using my van to go camping and road travel...until I needed a transition space to make a move...I can tell you committed living in a van without other options is a little depressing. I feel like I get so little done. Grateful for so nany friends where I have been able to break up the van living. But also grateful for the van to give me personal space. Trick is to find gratitude wherever you are!

[@shirleytyree276]

Kristi Lee health coach... Yes, exactly! Exactly that, to everything you said! You have to be especially careful if you're a health coach living in a van also, because it's just amazing how much less walking and moving around you do. So much more moving your vehicle around, but not moving your own self around enough. Even when you think you're getting out and doing plenty of that, it really creeps up on you! (Terrible consequences if you're not constantly aware and on top of it)

[@christieelee]

@@shirleytyree276 thanks for the reply...i so agree...i do love health coaching because it is something i can do virtually from anywhere...but being careful about what i eat and when i eat and moving and sleeping is always a challenge...in the van or out of it!

[@debravowell8337]

I'm learning that one

[@dameanvil]

00:00 🚐 Being a van life KZbinr often portrays the lifestyle as easy and carefree, but there's a lot more to it than what is shown in videos. 02:00 🧘‍♂ Introverted personalities may find van life more suitable, as it requires solitude and isolation at times. 04:52 🧼 Maintaining cleanliness in a van is a constant challenge due to limited space and frequent use. 07:24 🌞 Extreme weather conditions, both hot summers and cold winters, present significant challenges in van life, impacting comfort and daily routines. 09:40 🚰 Managing water and waste is essential and can be cumbersome, especially without proper systems in place. 10:38 🚽 Bathroom facilities are often lacking in vans, leading to inconvenience and discomfort, particularly with regards to waste disposal. 11:54 🚫 Finding suitable parking spots can be challenging, with not all areas being van life-friendly, leading to potential fines and towing. 12:21 🛠 Breakdowns and maintenance issues are common with older vans, potentially leading to unexpected expenses and disruptions. 14:36 😴 Constantly moving around can be exhausting, especially for those who prefer stability and urban amenities.

[@veganc5028]

I honestly can't think of anything worse than living in a vehicle other than being homeless on the streets

[@gauttiihaa]

Not experiencing what it's like to be a hunter. A gatherer. A go getter. To brake the chains of societys approval and go threw seasons of confusion, loneliness trials and tribulations to truly find ones inner self. To find a level of enlightenment (to each their own). To not be a trout swimming in circles with the rest of the trout but truly going no where. I don't blame you, ignorance is bliss. You chose the blue pill. To each their own. We chose the red pill. That is the difference.

[@Drmidnight-dd6tw]

You're right, it's like living your life inside a coffin

[@CarlosHernandez.RentaHouse]

@@Drmidnight-dd6tw The idea is to have an apartment or a house and just live in the van for a while. When you get tire you always have the possibility to return home and rest !!!

[@rein3684]

@@Lookintobookz An RV costs more and removes a lot of parking options that a van would have. Imagine paying for rv parking. Might as well be paying rent unless you can afford RV parking.

[@raulikalervo]

​@@capgun56I' m so sure ❤ We have no van life in Finland - so far. Of course , in the summertime people love the van life very much. But actually not too many. Freezing in the winters. I think this does not happen too often in Europe. I have travelled pretty much, God bless richly. 🙏🙏

[@celestryalcelestryal6690]

Cooking and clean up take way longer in a big kitchen too. Open windows in large house also causes dust. I go in and out of my home and my birds and dog cause mess in house too. If you never open your windows of your house it will smell too. Composting toilets can break down #2 very efficiently and only need to be changed every couple of months. I don't know which van lifers you are watching but I've watched many who are quite honest about it all.

[@naomisims7230]

True, some longtimers coming to the conclusion composting toilet is easier & less ugly to deal with.

[@camposvazquez]

@@naomisims7230 I understand the system for composting toilets and I've used them It takes discipline to use a composting toilet because you need to separate the liquids from the solids Not all guests are as disciplined.. there are times when people defecate explosively that has its issues on a composting toilet when it comes to keeping liquids in solids separated If you were ill sometimes liquids in solids are released from the same orifice Composting toilets have their drawbacks... Personally I need water to flush second I use a 5 gallon cassette style toilet next I use a logo lastly I use a composting toilet

[@M4K9G22]

I had to laugh when I read this. Cooking and cleaning is super easy in a big house compared to doing it in a van. Everytime you need to do either, you have to unpack and repack your stuff, find somewhere to toss your trash, or dump your fluids, etc. There's a lot more to do without even the actual cooking or cleaning. You're missing the point that you need to constantly clean in a small space like a van otherwise it will cause serious health issues. You can't just run a vac (assumimg you even have one) or open all your doors and windows whenever you want to. There's no floor mat outside your doors, every time you step in you're bringing in dirt. You'll usually be parked in a dirty parking lot, where as in your house or apartment, you can keep it clean or at the very least hose down everything. The outside of your van is always going to be filthy unless you can afford to wash it all the time. Majority of people can't. Composting toilets are a fancy marketing name, they don't actually compost. You actually do the opposite of composting, which is dehydrating your #2. Vanlife is dirty and a lot hard work. You can spend a lot of your time just trying to find somewhere safe to park. And laundry isn't just toss your clothes in the washer and go on with your day. You have to go to a laundry mat, and sit there and guard your clothes so they don't get stolen. That's after you've been driving around for a week with dirty clothes stinking up the tiny area in your van.

[@Canthus13]

I love it. I work from my van. I take up a small footprint. My carbon footprint is my gas usage, and that's it. Smaller than most people wo think they're living 'green', and I get 9mpg. But I'm also an introvert. I do most of my living in a city.. parked wherever to sleep. But yeah.. If you believe the instagram 'van life', yeah no. You deserve whatever happens to you. Also, we all (should) know that van life youtubers are doing this for a living and many of them DO talk about how long it takes to make a video. If you're just cooking for yourself, it doesn't take long. I can cook a meal in the same time as I did in a house. It takes longer because you're cooking for the camera.

[@jamesford4815]

curious which mobile hotspot do you use for your internet?

[@mentalmadness9783]

Just wanna clarify some thing. True introverts don't dislike people, we only get our energy drained from having people around all the time, so therefore we spend time in solitude to recharge, not liking people and avoiding people is social anxiety, not being introverted. My whole life I've tried to explain how it works to extroverts, but they just can't understand. It's not only about people, it's about stimuli in general, noisy places and so on even if you don't meet any people is also draining, we are much more sensitive too external stimuli since our receptors are much more active. That's why extroverts need to "be out there" in the world and always do stuff, because they don't have the same levels of internal stimuli so they need to seek it out. There is nothing bad about being introvert or extrovert, we just work differently.

[@WillandRambo]

I never said introverts don’t like people. I said Van life KZbinrs don’t like people but some also happen to be introverts so I can see where there was confusion. Hopefully now it’s clear.

[@janeprepper177]

I always took what "Van Lifer's" said with a grain of salt. It's a "Van", not a large RV or a house where you have a ton of space. Plus its hot, it's cold, you get "the knock", some creepy guy is looking in your windows...😄 It's Cray Cray.

[@Ms.CynecaJames]

Everyone will have a different experience. Some people are able to make it work others are not. Different strokes for different folks I guess. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@tammyreise]

I’ve watched several nomads on KZbin who document their van life. Couple things I have observed, the nomad has to have a gym membership for bathroom access, they have to keep moving around to find places to sleep, and the risk of danger… I saw a van life KZbin shorts, where the nomad actually filmed rodents in her van. 🤢 it’s fascinating to watch folks live the van life because I couldn’t do it. Great commentary!

[@jasontr2011]

Everyone's perspective and experience will be different. No one's experience or preferences can fit within certain perimeters. I did 21 years in the Marines and Army, a year in combat, SEAR school and many very hard things. My appetite for hard and difficult life experiences well essentially be much bigger than others. Every human experience is different. What one finds difficult might be easy for somebody else. Your experiences and perspective are very interesting and I appreciate you sharing.

[@mymai5859]

I watch a lot of van lifers. All of them have a video on bathroom strategy. Either composting or taking cassette toilets. Many with larger systems show all the tubes needed to empty big tanks, how to put it in sewage depot areas. I watched immensely how a variety people travel, the cost of fuel, breakdowns, extreme weather problems. I approach it with a sober head as I do my research before getting my setup in the near future. Yes I am a sociable introvert so travelling in remote areas is like a dream come true. Thank you so much for this video...it's invaluable for those who get lost in the romance of vanlife without seeing the downside. Much love & energy to you 💜

[@Wisdom-Nuggets-Tid-Bits]

No compost toilet thank you. No "cassette" toilet thank you. I dont want to empty the tanks through the tubes into sewage depot areas (fees!), time, smells, need for sterilization, etc. NO "Gray water tank"???? What the heck???? When I shower, brush my teeth, clean my dirties, wash my food, clean clothes, I dont want to have slimy, smelly, dirty, unsanitary water sitting in a tank in my living space thta I have to empty. NO THANKS. No fake toilets. When I flush, it better be gone! Dont be a foo;

[@RoguePrimate1]

You have to be adaptable, capable, cunning and a have a good head on your shoulders to be a Van Lifer. You never know what’s around the next corner.

[@richardclark.]

Definitely, this is part of the reason. Some people love this life. The challenges, and meeting them can be incredibly rewarding. This person was not cut out for this. It doesn't make everyone else full of shit. Lol. What an egotistical point of view.

[@geraldburmeister9637]

@@richardclark. To be fair he didn't say everyone, why does everyone get so defensive? I agree with him in general and I would still give it it ago in a few years. Everyone has a difference experience with every different opportunity. I'm more introverted so I think it would work good for me. I'm very mechanically inclined as well so breakdowns wouldn't scare me as much as someone else. All that being said I love my house with attached heated shop. Right now motorcycle camping trips are my vacations till retirement.

[@lynnej.9357]

The van lifers I watch DO talk about this stuff. Perhaps that's an indication that I watch TOO many!

[@debbie4315]

Or maybe it's an indication he didn't watch enough before he decided to try the life🤷‍♀️

[@lynnej.9357]

@@debbie4315 Maybe.

[@nikthechick5099]

I agree…I embarked on vanlife 6 month ago having watched lots of vanlifers vlogs and felt fully prepared. 🤷‍♀️.

[@littlehippygal]

I live in my Tesla with a cat and dog and you’re not wrong!! There are a LOT of things that come with this lifestyle that aren’t as ‘aesthetic’ to share! I found your point on introverts super interesting. I definitely am one- I spend a ton of time cross stitching, watching scenery and taking photos, and haven’t been bored on my travels yet! ❤️

[@carltonthepug]

Is there a reason why it’s necessary to mention it’s a Tesla instead of just saying ‘car’? You’re one of THOSE people eh? 🤣

[@camposvazquez]

@@carltonthepug a Tesla has it's challenges distinctive of a conventional liquid fuel vehicle

[@TexasLocalProduce]

@@carltonthepug A Tesla, or any ev, can run your A/C when it's triple digits outside (or your heat) unlike an ice vehicle that will empty out your gas tank (plus let everyone near you know your vehicle is on)

[@shirleyhurst2233]

Little Hippy Gal, how does the charging station situation affect your travels in the Tesla?

[@thenoxbox4829]

If you can afford a Tesla you technically don't have to be living out of your car you could afford a larger vehicle for camping even if it was older

[@richardstromboli8485]

Hi, I think the only videos I saw of yours was your guiting video and this one. All nine of ur points were pretty valid but on the flip side I think u were a pretty bad choice for full-time van life. I started doing van life, use to be called "out on the bum" from '76 to '81 in a vw camper because of the economics of life. Retired in 2018 and bought a 2008 commercial looking step van. Been full-time since July 2021 and am mostly in cities on the west coast. My built out is very minimal so city life affords me with the best value and convenience. Just turned 70, my major concern is how much longer can I keep this up. 🙏

[@WillandRambo]

Define who the right choice would be for Van life.

[@amandaconley644]

Anyone NOT like u

[@kevinweber5129]

Do you have to work while in your van or do you have Social Secutity or A pension. I would like to do van life traveling each summer but need to wait 10 years for SS.

[@richardstromboli8485]

@@kevinweber5129 I have SS and some savings. Unfortunately I don't see things getting better. I think there will be way more people living in there vehicles but not driving around because of the economy.

[@bigtex2761]

Most of your negatives are avoidable. But if you believe everything you see on the Internet, you need a reality check.

[@AnnieinKC]

Excellent video! TY! Being raised in the military, traveling gets tiresome. Saying goodbye to people you like is hard. The breakdowns can be quite expensive. You're right about cooking, etc inside the van!

[@constancewalsh3646]

"Van life is for introverts" - this statement of profound truth should be heeded by anyone contemplating this life style. For the intermittent introvert, rent-a-van might be more realistic. This would be me. After three months camping in a tent in the forest boy was I happy to open the door to my modest but sturdy, comfortable home-studio and all my beloved things. At seventy-six, I'm getting to know myself. This was my first experience camping, but maybe a bit too long. But way less maintenance and work than living in a van.

[@balthazarquinn]

Would you say that the maintenance and work involved with living in a van is less or more than living in a studio? (I'm curious, having been a life-long renter of poorly-maintained apartments and having not yet attempted to live in a van.)

[@mandaloolux9216]

@@balthazarquinn I live in a studio and I absolutely love it. But I love small spaces. They feel cozy to me, and are easier for me to maintain.

[@camposvazquez]

@@balthazarquinn if something breaks down in your studio apartment you still have your studio apartment to live in If your van breaks down in the desert or your van breaks down in the mountains away from infrastructure or your van breaks down in the snow you're stuck

[@janasher4940]

Yes. And even introverts find it isolating...

[@carltonthepug]

@@balthazarquinnit can be just as costly as living in a home. Been there done that.

[@garnellwalls3721]

Thank you for keeping it real. This is the first channel I've seen with this content, I will be watching.

[@gusmonster59]

Isn't a part time vanner the same as just camping? When I was a kid, we travelled as a family across the US every summer in an what would be a small today RV (this was 1960's - 1970's) for 4 weeks or so. With a dog. So van life? I had a friend who lived in her van with her dog. Her van didn't smell. She kept it clean.

[@lifeisatrip8993]

Very realistic problems you've mentioned in this video William. I feel anyone thinking about starting van life should go part time first (if possible) and see if they like the life style.

[@DenaInWyo]

I'm setting up to rent one for two weeks. Even more part time before I try part time. I've heard of all the problems he mentions and so far am not dissuaded, but I KNOW I need to try out the real thing before committing. Selling your house and all you own and jumping into it without ever even giving a weekend seems foolhardy.

[@camposvazquez]

@@DenaInWyo Vans are extremely expensive to rent and they have many times a mileage limit or should I say a distance limit Cruise America rents RVs many of them 21 ft Class C RVs which are fully self-contained and are more affordable to rent

[@janasher4940]

@@DenaInWyo I wish I had rented out my house for a year and bought the van and tried it. As it was, I sold the house, got rid of 90% of what I owned (still don't regret that part) and bought the van and went. There are parts of it I really enjoyed. I loved driving to new places and seeing the road and being on the move. In a year, I would have spent enough time on BLM land to realize this idea sucked.

[@janasher4940]

@@camposvazquez But so different than living in a van. You can't stealth camp in cities in a Class C. You don't get the concept of living in the square footage of a postage stamp. You also don't get the concept of making every space in that van fit at least 2 functions, better it fit 4. Life is so comfortable in a Class C but you don't understand what it is like to live without a black tank or a shower.

[@camposvazquez]

@@janasher4940 I would never live without a shower/toilet I own a 21 foot calls b plus coachmen Starflyte 21rb and a 35 foot holiday rambler class A I am very hygienic and shower daily.. wash my dishes and flush the toilet..wash my hands.. The VANLIFE you see on KZbin is glorified homelessness.. NO thank you I also go off road camping (4runner)... Portable shower and a reliance foldable toilet with 12 gallons of water on the roof rack.. I stay fully self contained..

[@CarolineTudor]

I have the same van and built-out you had. I love it but it’s used for camping and traveling with our two dogs. We don’t always sleep in it while on the road but it opens up opportunities and adventures when traveling with dogs. It’s a fun little vehicle and I love it. But I’m always happy to be home at the end of a trip.

[@mralekito]

It does look like a great built. For traveling around, holidays it’s ideal, I would think if you stayed in a serviced campsite or similar. I would imagine the heat is a problem. On one hand you need solar power, on the other you don’t want the inside to get too hot. Although I watch another channel, Static Camper and he has lived in his van (same make) for 6 years. It suits some people.

[@anacleta424]

I want to thank you for the honesty. I have watched many videos on the elderly how much they enjoy van life and ladies alone living that life style so I have through about

[@davidg.johnson7574]

I live full-time in a Roadtrek camper van with solar panels and am a "Snowbird" where I never have to shovel snow or slip on ice. I'll compare my monthly expenses and a few small chores, to your never ending mortgage payments, high property taxes, heating and lighting all those rooms, and constant house repairs, dealing with bad neighbors and mowing of a lawn. I love gathering new memories as I travel and would not want to spend my life sitting in recliner watching other people's memories on TV.

[@dlight2669]

How do you deal with the moisture you run a fan inside and use dehumidify products

[@nuneze2008]

8 mths is nothing... I've been doing it for 6 yrs... You have to learn to adapt and find ways to make it better I love it.

[@johnsnow2022]

Don’t be ridiculous.. 2 weeks is enough for any normal person to find truth in all of the points he made. But anyway What does it mean to ‘adapt’? Is adapting to lowering your standards of living enough that you accept your new reality?

[@Kitsunetim]

I agree very much. I hadn't officially lived in the car, but I will. I don't expect it to be perfect or glamorous. It's just that I can't live anywhere.

[@camposvazquez]

@@johnsnow2022 if you do it full time the cycle can be shorter or longer You're always limited to the weakest link what shortens your cycle food water clean clothes or dumping your tanks if you have any I have a 34 ft Class A that I can survive off of for 3 weeks enough water enough tanks the fridge holds enough food and it has a washer and dryer stackable I have a 21-ft class B it holds enough water for 2 weeks I have enough waste tank capacity for 2 weeks it holds enough food for 2 weeks... The issue is clean clothes I usually carry a week and a half's worth of clothes which is just about enough white clothes in one washing machine colored clothes in one washing machine linens in one washing machine It's when you do a full cycle of all things where you can get a better well-rounded picture of living on the road There's distinctions between living on the road vehicle dwellers being a nomad living the van life live in the RV life and living in parks like KOA and other paid spots I'm originally a tent camper car camping is a luxury truck camping even more van life even more class B life even more and ultimately Class A fifth wheel life... Being a tent camper and having a fully self-contained Class B plus and a fully self-contained Class A.. I'm in a moving studio apartment..

[@fixsationon7244]

@@johnsnow2022 yes. Lower your standards. That is the point. We don't need as much we think we need

[@callmex5406]

@@johnsnow2022 he adapted to shitting in a bucket by eating it afterwards lol

[@kristinasupermom]

We travel with a family of 4 in our van have a cassette toilet. We have gone across the country several times and never had a problem. Took some planning, but thats ok and very willing to deal with gray and black water in exchange for the convenience. It sounds like vanlife wasnt for you, and thats ok.

[@beaulieuonnp593]

Having kids in a campervan isn't great if the adults want some privacy.

[@sable24367]

Thank you for your honesty. I appreciate the time and effort you and other van lifers put into videos on camping. I would like to do it someday but squatting on a bucket to do the number 2 is a BIG 0!!.

[@musicalmarion]

As someone so interested in this subject, I can't believe that normal people haven't realised the possible problems of such a lifestyle, when watching these videos. You mean it doesn't occur to people that it's tougher than it looks? Being confined to a tiny space is surely not a lot of fun. I've noticed recently too, how those I admire need a break and are going through depression or burnout. You're right, as an experience great, as a lifestyle no way. I'm personally proud to own a home, and I'd not trade that to sleep in a car park at great risk.

[@WillandRambo]

For me it was just an experiment. But these van life KZbinrs doing it for money which I’m sure makes them feel stuck, they are prob all going nuts on the inside. If they stop, the money eventually dries up.. what a terrible feeling. This is why I quit because I didn’t want it to be all about money.

[@perezfecto]

Quite interesting. After watching your video (haven't watched your other videos yet) my thoughts: 1) Most youtube-vanlifers are victims of the so called self-justification bias: people have a hard time admitting that they made the wrong decision, so instead they make it look like everything is fine and/or they did the right choice. 2) Your looks, the way you dress and the place you're living now: it all screams "city boy". I can hardly picture you taking a sh*t in the woods or in a bucket. It's plain to see that you're not the profile required for van life. 3) You seem to have a comfortable life. I bet you can afford renting and probably have a full-time job. Most vanlifers are quite the contrary, they couldn't afford renting a house or even an appartment so they didn't have a choice but moving into a van. The youtube thing is just a way for them to cope with isolation and/ or bonding with people in the same situation.

[@WillandRambo]

Yes, I’m a functional, well educated adult who doesn’t take a crap in a bucket full of kitty litter or resorts to digging holes. Read the description of the video.

[@laurab972]

@@WillandRambo 😂😂 appreciate your video and snarky humor.

[@forgottenknowledge8917]

I'm just starting out but I love it. If you need a shower ask caravan parks and truck stops to use their facilities. They will charge you 5 bucks here in Australia. Other van people leave shower doors open if you are struggling for money

[@annjessup1670]

Most of these inconveniences can be discovered with a few camping trips. It isn’t for everyone! I camp several times per year for a couple of weeks at a time. The cons don’t overwhelm me but most probably that’s because I know I have a cushy home to go back to!

[@WillandRambo]

Try living out of one and traveling for a month (or 8 like me)

[@adre4090]

Thank you for your honesty, I was about to do this lifestyle without knowing all the details. Thank you!

[@CLdriver1960]

It takes a particular sort of person, and a particular situation to live full time in a van. You said it: great for a hobby, challenging as a lifestyle.

[@Robnord1]

Living on wheels of one kind or another since 1975, those glory without reality videos often make me laugh and tune out. You detailed the mobile Life challenges well. Currently in a 37' park model plus a couple of 5th wheels in the sticks, and Love it.

[@alallen2767]

Something I notice in vanlife videos is all the STUFF people cram into their vans. I really don't believe they use every single thing they pack in. I wonder if they're just trying to show how much can fit into THEIR van. I don't imagine it's comfortable.

[@Isaac-ci5wy]

Appreciate the transparency man, I’m gonna need it

[@19barney94]

Thank you for making a honest video about the things you personally struggled with. It's nice to see and have insight from all different types of people who tried and see what worked for them and what didn't. Personally most of your reasons don't resonate with me due to different personalities and some of them seemed silly as if you didn't expect to be doing those things going into it. But as other people have noted there is a difference between vanlife KZbinrs and nomads. Thank you for having a clear well spoken video about the negative things you experienced, somehow it only reassured me on what I'm doing.

[@Itried20takennames]

Most introverts don’t dislike people (some do) but they have the opposite effect - they may like/enjoy socializing or being in crowds, but they have to expend energy while socializing, and can find it utterly exhausting, to the point that they are fine and happy with time alone. Introvert/extrovert each has its good and bad points, and 2020 lockdown was…no big deal (but sorry for those who struggled with it).

[@phionasara]

Very true.. being a extrovert or a introvert isn't about liking or not liking people or socialising. It's about how they get their energy.. a extrovert feeds off others- they feel energized and charged when around and interacting with others.. introverts need alone time to recharge all the energy they have used while being social .

[@mfuller1957]

Even RVrs have issues. Camp grounds aren't cheap. I could not do it full time. I might try van life back when I was in my 20s or 30s, but I was serving my country. Getting paid to live in the UK, Europe, and Korea. I wouldn't trade that for anything! 🙏♥️

[@10-OSwords]

The only people that seem to do this successfully rip everything out, fully insulate, have tons of solar panels & back up power & have internal temp control & a mini shower/toilet, custom furniture & mini kitchen, etc...basically you're spending $100+ grand to convert a van & then they claim they can't afford a home...if you got $100 grand, you can well afford a home.

[@a_soldierz_genetics]

I was born and raised in the inner city, Baltimore Maryland to be exact. I joined the military in 2006, with my first duty post being in Texas. I ended up falling in love with the country living, and neighbors not being close to my home. I retired from the military in 2014 due to injuries sustained from multiple combat deployments. I turned 29, Sept 15 and really considering trying out the van life. Not as a permanent thing, but for the experience. I respect your honesty, thank you for the videos. Much love from Texas 🤙

[@OneTrueWord1988]

Thank you for your service to our country! I am sorry to read that you have multiple injuries, and I hope you are getting quality medical care which helps you. God bless you! Praying for you.

[@jeannetteduette6704]

Thank you for the chat. You touched on things that I was interested in knowing about Van life. You did a thorough job explaining what van life is truly like. Thanks again!

[@glennryan3101]

Although I agree with most of what you said, van life is full of it's challenges, but I think you were being disingenuous about two things. First, you lumped all van lifers into the category of being introverts and they don't like being around people. That simply is not true. It may be true about some people in the lifestyle, but many of us do love people and at times we may even find a group of people to camp with in a van life community. You will find that more so out west. I am from the east coast and there doesn't seem to be as much community there, at least from my experience. Second, you said that no one ever talks about the bad stuff and the challenges. Again, you probably aren't watching enough van lifers, or even car lifers. There are plenty of people (other than the ones who make it seen all cozy all the time) that do talk about the bad as well as the good. You definitely are correct about a lot of the things you said, though. Personally, I travelled last year in the same vehicle you were in, a Promaster City and yes, it was cramped, to the detriment to my health (heart patient). After working on my health for the past year (in a friend's home), I now have a full sized Promaster 2500 high top on order and will have it professionally kitted out and should be back on the road come April 2023. This lifestyle isn't for everyone and people should be informed to the realities of living in a van before making that kind of commitment. It is best for people to rent a vehicle and do a local test run to see if it is even something they could do. Best wishes in all your future plans.

[@jpaul8589]

You just described 9 engineering challenges that need to be solved. Thank you!

[@gmemo4449]

You nailed it, those You Tube influencers make it look glamorous. Which it isn't, it's hard and it's not cheap. There's a difference between the true nomads and the YT'bers. I miss San Diego (my hometown), but it got too expensive.

[@Hard_Car_Life]

Thank you yet again for this information. Yes, that trip to the artic by Living the Van Life seemed awesome and I was so taken by just his courage to do such a thing in February! It makes you want to live the van/RV/ Box Truck life. But hearing you speak the truth about it, brings one back to earth. There are so many seniors that have to live that life. Glorious Life On Wheels just did an interview with a 75 yr old woman who is doing van life and still working because she can't afford an apartment. I prayed for her today. So sad that people are forced into it. And I just found another channel of a very young black woman and her toddler living in a van as well. So sad that here we are in the richest country in the world, and what, 30 percent of people are forced to live in vehicles or on the street !! I'm retiring in 2 years and moving to either Mexico, Panama, Argentina, Philippines, or Thailand, because it's dirt cheap and you can live like royalty. The van life always is on my mind and it makes one believe you can save lots of money rather than paying rent. I wish it could be that way but like you said from experience, it's expensive and dangerous as well. Thank you again. BTW, a certain KZbin van life channel did not take too well to your last video exposing van life! He had to prove you wrong.

[@WillandRambo]

I think I know which ‘pretend hobo’ you’re talking about. End of the day, they have nothing else besides the KZbin machine generating income. Ask yourself.. does he genuinely like living 24/7 in a tin box on wheels in the middle of the winter? Lol come on now. YT income is too good and very difficult to give up. I could have kept going and I would have had 100K subs and making minimum 10K a month but it wouldn’t be authentic and I’d be full of shit too.

[@Hard_Car_Life]

@@WillandRambo - I have to agree. I would also bet he lives within that giant garage he rents to fix his rig now and then. There's no way he can live full time in a van in the bitter Canadian winter. Especially one he cannot stand up in. Thanks for your reply.

[@asifadeni]

Wow. It’s really an eye opener. Thanks for making and sharing this video

[@waltbarbour207]

Thank god we didn't watch this video or read some of the comments before we got our van, we would've missed out on so much, places visited and interesting people we've met. We're not full timers but two or three weeks at a time, travelling through Spain and Portugal and we're already planning a trip up to the French Pyrenees next summer along with a few small trips before then. Our van is a small VW Caravelle, with the two of us and a rather large Belgian shepherd and although it's not all plain sailing, once we get into a routine and realise everything has it's place, it's a brilliant way to travel.

[@WillandRambo]

2-3 weeks? Big deal. Go have fun.

[@carmenmartinez2882]

Lol…..2-3 weeks lol, lol.

[@thenoxbox4829]

"I like to socialize and when I'm not around people my energy goes down" I felt this 100%

[@irok1d]

I'm the complete opposite. I get depressed around people and my energy skyrockets when I'm alone.

[@lapdogg]

Find people and go socialize. It really is that easy.

[@lukepocock]

@@irok1d amen

[@__WJK__]

It's amazing how people can be so different from one person to the next. i.e., I can go weeks, days and months intereatcing with hardly anyone while surrounded by nature and all nature has to offer, however, mega cities and mega populations tend to suck the energy and life right of me.

[@davidboskett5581]

Some very valid comments but I would only agree with half of them.Like anyway of life it does not suit everyone and hardly anyone would want to do it for the rest of their life.Anyone who lives in a van needs to learn to adapt to its limitations but as many have shown it can be done and still provide a reasonable degree of comfort. Everyone should have a simple compost toilet in their van.When used by one person it only needs emptying once a month and is completely odour freel.You dont need to shower everyday You can keep yourself perfectly clean with a daily sponge bath.Getting rid of grey water is not a problem - having to find clean water to drink and bathe with is probably more of a chore. You need to enjoy travelling and is definitely not for the person who wants to stay around a town or city for work or recreation.

[@janasher4940]

I've studied compost toilets. You do realize you need to vent those outside with a 12 vt fan, right? You won't get that without solar power. And a simple compost system is combining urine with solid wastes, and that will stink to high heaven in a van. That's tantamount to having a pit vault toilet in your van. You really should be composting solids only (as soon as you add wet works to it, it all goes south quickly) and still those are vented out. I do agree with that we need showers a lot less than we think. I got to the point of showering 1ce every week in the summer (1.5 gallon shower) and once every 3 weeks in the winter. I tried to shower regularly because skin needs to slough off. My skin used to lift up in patches. I exfoliated more often then I showered actually, but that was the driving force for my showers was to get the dead skin off. I molted like a snake if I didn't exfoliate. During this time I had the most wonderful skin and people used to tell me I looked 30 yrs younger. As soon as I moved into a house and started showering regularly, my skin aged 10 years in 1 yr. I've been thinking about this.

[@inthepinesmama]

I love this video and I’m glad for your honesty because it’s very hard to find many negative factors of this lifestyle as a full time endeavor. I like watching van-life videos (mostly for minimalist storage ideas), but I have never wanted this for myself. However…just before retirement 10 years ago, I had my heart set on building and living full time in a tiny house (on wheels). While watching all this on KZbin for a couple of years before that (from the comforts of my living room couch!!)…I never really saw the negatives. After following a few people, the negative aspects eventually started coming out. One major issue started to be the ordinance laws suddenly popping up around rural areas (my choice of location). No one (especially banks and government agencies!!) wanted to see people living mortgage free so it became increasingly difficult to find a place to buy land to put one. To make a very VERY long & exhausting story short, the year I retired, a big lightbulb suddenly went on and I decided NONE of it was for me! Of course I was depressed, but at least I knew before I made huge investments!! I needed retirement to be easier, not more difficult. I’m forever grateful I never made the investment now!! I’m super happy with my choice of a minimalistic & independent senior-living small apartment home. So bottom line…when I saw your video I knew I had to watch it!! THANK YOU 😊

[@936anyst]

It's all about the individual, and would amagine where your at. Sounds like van life isn't for you. In two days it will be 5 yrs full time van dweller... only regret is, wish I would have done it sooner. Great vid tho...

[@joeblow1942]

1.5 years so far living in an 06 Toyota Sienna minivan conversion. I made the interior as functional and beautiful as possible. My next van will be a tall Ford Transit. P.S. I’m so glad that I’m not an extrovert!

[@stephensmith8226]

Thanks for your honesty, a lot of what you mentioned resonates with me, I don't live in a van but a boat. Whilst I enjoy the freedom it can afford when things are going well, it's like a prison sentence when it doesn't. Also when people realise I live on a boat, I certainly feel looked down upon and many of the Marinas that I visit, I have to hide the fact that I'm a full time liveaboard.

[@janasher4940]

OMG. So true. I had to hide the fact that I lived in a van even though I was teaching other CPA's how to enter into a new industry or market at a convention. There is such a stigma attached to it like we are really 'the homeless' - one step above the bumb they are stepping over as they get off the escalator coming up from the Tube to go to work every morning.

[@coloradomallcrawlers]

I’m about to live in an off-road camper starting next month. I did a trial of this when my work forced me to another location during COVID. I really enjoyed it, but had a safety net of my apartment and my co-worker buddy let me crash at his house when we worked on the camper. I’m excited, but I’m concerned about theft (I don’t want to keep the camper always hooked up to the Jeep like I did before), finding spots (it can go further off-road than probably every van, but unlike a nimble van, it will be a struggle to find spots in the winter if I have to stay in Denver), and probably with self doubt (everyone that cares about me is trying to get me to not do this… I’ve got nonstop come live with me messages). This was helpful, thank you! Although I’ll never be a van life KZbinr (I’m an off-road trail guide KZbinr), I’m probably going to make some videos on how this off-road camping experiment goes. I’m hoping I’ll learn a lot as even though I will one day have a home base again, I’d love to do month to multiple month long overland like trips in the future.

[@Solo-Road]

Taking a dump/deuce/sh!t is a subject that is definitely neglected by van dwelling youtubers. All those hoses and tanks can be a nightmare. I've never lived in a van, but in my camping/overlanding experience, I've found that a detergent bottle with the pour spout cut out and a 2 gallon bucket are the most efficient solutions for all the toilet needs.

[@MrPHart]

A little soapy water in the bottom of any bucket helps everything come out easier, dish soap a great invention for RV'ers.

[@janasher4940]

I was so used to peeing standing up (I'm 62 yr woman) that it was strange when I moved into the house and needed to sit. Always peed into plastic mold connected to tubing that drained into old water jug. Emptied the jug every morning around my camp/grass.

[@KOOLBadger]

Im just going poop in a bag..

[@markbajek2541]

@@KOOLBadger use a small bucket with a pool noodle on the rim lined with a couple of plastic bags. It's easier than pooping directly into a bag.

[@dhsredhead]

Vanessa's Van Life Journey basically made her own composting toilet set up with an upright cooler and pine shavings. Seems like that would work pretty well. I don't get cassette toilets at all, they look like they'd be super easy to spill everywhere and I have noticed even nicer campervans have them. Incinerating toilets would be awesome but they're super expensive. I don't think that I have ever seen a van build with one.

[@NoteFromSELF]

No one wants to watch someone prepare a whole meal or make their bed or wash their dishes from start to finish. I toggle through the videos with too much B-roll. I'm seriously considering van life full-time. I'm truly a minimalist so I am sure it will work for me. I basically want a bedroom on wheels so I can work and put money away - as well as travel occasionally. There are many ways around all the negatives you're talking about. Plenty of van life KZbinrs mention the negatives. Not just you. Clearly van life isn't for everyone. But then neither is the rent/mortgage trap.

[@WillandRambo]

If you can afford to live in a house you would. If not, then sure van is next best. Once the romance wears off, you’ll remember my video. A van will only add misery to your pain. PS: if you can’t afford a place of your own, rent a room for $500 a month. Van life will cost you more per month. Go where it’s affordable.

[@Earthquakezz]

I just think that we should live and let others do the same - their way.

[@scherzva]

The problem is that many van lifers don’t respect the areas they visit, they leave trash and waste.

[@reyinfante5553]

Vanlife can be doable if you know how to counter the cons. Get a partner so you don't get bored, sound proof your van, get a incinirating toilet, have a dual or even triple purpose everything including lay outs, get an app for night parking, etc.

[@tammiepulley7167]

I lived in a van for 6 months. I moved my camping spot about 30 times. I got extremely hemmed in by various fires in CA. I lived in fear of my Van getting broken into every time I left it for more than an hour. Break In fear is real when everything you own is in your vehicle. It causes you to live cheap on everything including clothes, electronics, etc. for fear of it being stolen. At least I felt that way in CA. I finally had to quit. But I cannot deny I miss it from time to time. I felt a freedom I have never felt since. Yes-I’m an introvert.

[@ARF.Racing]

The paranoid feeling of your van being broken into is a very real thing for sure. I have lived out of mine in Socal since Mar 2015. Anytime I'm away from the van for any reason my mind is thinking about needing to get back so everything I own isn't stolen. Definitely a reality that people don't talk about much.

[@naomisims7230]

Thanks for mentioning the fire...never heard any van lifers discuss that...yet, if I lived in a home & had to leave due to fire or holocaust, I'd be so grateful to have an "undesirably" outfitted van. Hmmmm...something else to think about...

[@naomisims7230]

Knowing myself, the "worry" of the next night would get to me. (Is there an app to help you plan ahead for those times, or someone to go to when you're at a loss in finding a spot?)

[@heatherreadsreddit8579]

@@naomisims7230 There are a number of apps and even Facebook groups where you can get help with finding spots.

[@beaulieuonnp593]

Exactly someone is always watching you, waiting to break in, to deal things, including passport, ID etc

[@williamlewis3582]

I did it for two years I truly loved the lifestyle

[@esval3054]

Why did you stopped?

[@moblack5883]

@@esval3054 exactly why did you stop if so great

[@williamlewis3582]

My girlfriend mom died left her a house 🏠 I thinking of getting a rv it not over yet lol.

[@naomisims7230]

It does seem to "get in your blood" if you find you enjoy it. My dad said the same about truck driving. He tried better paying jobs where he stayed put, but he always would go back to trucking eventually. Truckers also have to "learn to deal with themselves" on those long trips. You have to find a good attitutude inside, or you're miserable. Some can't handle it.

[@lifebeginstoday10]

Living a nomadic life in an RV or van is no better or worse than living a brick and mortar stationary life. It is just different, and how well one likes it and adapts is dependent upon what is important to them. There are those who truly love it, others who hate it, and the rest who fall somewhere between. The bottom line is that this life simply isn't for everyone, but it works for many.

[@thezenoflux8244]

may be but the cops don't come knocking to kick me out or tow my house away.

[@heatherreadsreddit8579]

@@thezenoflux8244 They do if you don’t pay your rent or mortgage for long enough.

[@fckjb284]

You're incorrect. Living in a 2200 square foot house with clean toilets, and clean showers, and big refrigerators, ovens, King size beds, clean sheets, air conditioning/ modern furnace and a fireplace IS most certainly "better" than living in 60 to 80 square feet of cold and heat, dirt and grime, and shi**ing in a smelly bucket and looking for a place to get rid of it. When I travel I get in my clean class A motorhome with 160 square feet of living space with a shower, clean toilet, TV, real furnace, 2 door refrigerator/freezer comfortable clean bed So you are wrong to say living in a van is no better or worse than living in a house. I've lived in a van a few times...it IS NOT comfortable, and actually not very clean or healthy.💣😜

[@noelnoel433]

🙌

[@noelnoel433]

@@thezenoflux8244 They can take your house for any other reasons my dear.

[@skyblue-ii8bh]

U were very honest and whtever u told is 100% correct.whtever issues u raised i always had in mind while watching these kind videos..Ur video will help a lot for new people who r thinking of living a van life..👍🏼

[@melindamarie6139]

Some people are honest. Some people lie. Some people love vanlife. Some do not. I personally have been living vanlife for a little over two years. It can be hard yes, like anything in life. I think it's more a matter of whether you are cut out for it or not. To each his own. ✌🏼💕

[@andrea41970]

What about the ones that can’t afford a house or apartment

[@DebbieD7777]

Thank you for taking the time to do this video and your honesty great reality check. Looking forward to your videos 🙂

[@macaroon147]

I'm an introvert that loves camping and nature, and honestly, I think you just turned me off of van life. thank you for the honesty - rare to come by on the internet these days.

[@jan9634]

thank you for sharing your experiences. I myself am about to take a temporary "break" in my life. Van Life seems appropriate for this. even if I am aware that many things are presented too rosy. Good luck in the coming time and enjoy your new situation. Greetings from Germany

[@RobertSmith-cv1cu]

Very nicely put. We have been motorvaners for 35yrs now. In our younger days for holiday use only. Annual holidays of course but we also used our van every weekend when weather permitted. A van is expensive and you must use them weekends not leave it parked in your drive. As a vehicle for holiday use like we used it it makes for really good value holidays. For weekends we had a policy of never going more than 3/4 hr away from home. Too many people make the mistake of going too far for just a weekend. Its a break not an endurance test. Using it for 1 or 2 wks then travel further of course. Now we are retired so can live life differently. We sold our house and got a small flat, so as we always have somewhere to return too, that is important also. We tend to go for 1-3 mths away now that work is no longer an issue in our lives. We also split between traveling and holing up somewhere for a few days. This makes it relaxing and not rushing from 1 point to another all the time. We love this life because we have the best of all worlds. Affordable holidays, long term sight seeing, plenty of relaxation. Charging around with a camera doesn't even come into it and at the end of the day a home to return too, which by the way is very cheap to run. I do feel also that you must use sites some of the time to do cleaning, washing and charging batteries. We have done this as a hobby for a long time. We have always enjoyed what we do at a cost that we can afford and have traveled far and seen wonderful sites all with our personnel belongings going alone with us. But, and this is important, always with money in a bank account that is readily available if needed for vehicle repairs or a hotel room, train ride or whatever to get us home. That goes for casual use people or permanent use people. And I have often wondered about some of these long distance out of the way places. Is it really worth the time and cost and was there not somewhere more local that oftered the same for less hassle. To explain, some friends of ours went from the Uk to New Zealand for 3 wks hiring a motorhome. When they came back we asked 'what was it like'. Their answer surprised us. They said 'it was a lovely holiday but we felt we could have traveled somewhere more local, say Norway Sweden Finland or the Alps and seen just as much without the long flights and travelling time , and that comment makes you think doesn't it. We now live in Spain and have here most landcapes available all within one country and good weather also. Happy motorhoming and for You tubers consider spending longer in one place so that you get to see more instead of a quick view job. Your viewers get to see more of the place also. Take care people and fellow vaners.

[@nomadicblissvanlife]

I couldn’t help but to giggle while watching this video lol Vanlife DEFINITELY does not suck🤷🏾‍♀️ This life isn’t for EVERYBODY. I was a trucker for 13yrs before becoming a vanlifer and I’m very introverted so this life is PERFECT for me. Any lifestyle you have is going to come with ups and downs. To think that you’ll get into this life and eventually is all roses is just crazy. I know plenty of KZbinrs that show the good and bad and they all LOVE IT. I myself is about to start vlogging as well. At the end of the day, most of us don’t care to be apart of the rat race in society. We are totally FREE from rent, high ridiculous light bills,etc. If it gets too hot, get a hotel until the weather cools off🤷🏾‍♀️ If its too cold, there’s heaters you can get for your vans. Alot of ppl just don’t use common sense and have no clue on how to live SIMPLE😁 In EVERYTHING YOU MUST HAVE BALANCE…NO LIFESTYLE IS PERFECT… You just figured out what you wanted from this life wasn’t out here and that’s ok. Blessings to you ALL❤️🤘🏾❤️ Namaste