Van Troubles AGAIN?! (Or A Hotel Vacation?) | Then I find the most beautiful (FREE) cliffside camp.

Thank you so much for being here!
I'm happy nothing was seriously wrong with my van. When it is also your home, it hits a bit harder. Thank goodness I was able to drive away from all of it and go to one of the most beautiful views I've had at a free boondocking spot.
Canyons of The Ancients dispersed camping: 37.39702, -108.82143
Thanks to you guys (my subscribers and friends) again for being here. If you're new here, subscribe for more (mini) VanLife content, as well as travel, adventure and becoming a digital nomad.
xoxo
Support my channel: / mybasicjourney
Every person who subscribes to my patreon is also pledging $1 to a charity that we will choose every month together! More details on my patreon page.
One-Time Donation: www.paypal.me/...
Check out my website/blog: mybasicjourney....
Facebook: / mybasicjourney
Instagram: / mybasicjourney
Twitter: / mybasicjourney
Merch: teespring.com/...
Etsy (Handmade Jewelry and Stickers): www.etsy.com/s...
CBD brand I use:
ThoughtCloud CBD thoughtcloud.n...
Discount code: basic (Just enter in discount code at checkout.)
Jackery Website:
www.jackery.com?aff=275
Jackery Explorer 1000:
www.jackery.co...
amzn.to/3or5x2R
Jackery SolorSaga 100Watt Solar Panel:
www.jackery.co...
amzn.to/3ofTll4
Jackery 240:
www.jackery.co...
amzn.to/3hI6aCk
Nomadik box: bit.ly/36EjDWv
Use code "basicjourney20" for 20% off!(:
Items in my van (Amazon Affiliate Links):
Primo Jug: amzn.to/3fk2HIM
Primo Pump: amzn.to/3b2PkJE
12PC Camping Cook Set (with mini stove): amzn.to/2LMycNR
Aromatherapy Battery Powered fan: amzn.to/2LMQvTd
Reliance Foldable Loo: amzn.to/2vgZxmQ
Fairy String Lights with Remote Control (USB Powered): amzn.to/2TVKCXA
Body Pillow: amzn.to/38JPMem
Body Pillow Fuzzy Cover: amzn.to/38O31uU
Constellation Tapestry: amzn.to/2U0xQaf
Decorative Faux Succulents: amzn.to/2TIirfS
Decorative Faux Ivy: amzn.to/2Xm81mu
Small foldable desk table: amzn.to/2SbXHef
Car-sized Fire Extinguisher: amzn.to/2u1q3zx
Co2 Sensor: amzn.to/3acZmbQ
Collapsible sink: amzn.to/2zaSbTY
Collapsible strainer: amzn.to/2ypL3CI
Net Hammock For Gear: amzn.to/2TlOLEH
2Inch Memory foam Mattress (Full size, folded in half): amzn.to/36kSUho
Laundry Bag: amzn.to/2zTvC6f
Thule Cargo Carrier: amzn.to/37W7QCA
Camping stove (With Propane hose and extra butane cans): amzn.to/2OkyCwP
Music from the Epidemic Sound.

[@dorisemone6778]

So happy to see you! The mother in me was worried about you and Joey. You have no idea how inspiring you are! It is true..."that which does not kill us, makes us stronger." It also teaches us how to trust in our abilities to cope with the arrows that Life throws at us all. You are brave and capable. Trust yourself. Thanks for showing us the realness of travelling and living in your van. Know that the natural beauty you experience is creating memories that you will carry with you for a lifetime. Be well and safe and grateful and happy.

[@JodysJourney]

Joey seemed to be appreciating the hotel stay. Haha. 😊❤️

[@juliepeace418]

So cute and adorable. Joey looking at you while you say goodbye on the video.

[@belindaknowles7440]

You did the right thing pulling over when you smelled smoke! You can’t be too careful. I am so glad it wasn’t anything serious. You have once again shown the realities of van life. I love the beautiful footage of your camp area. I wouldn’t have gotten close to the edge of that cliff either. Heights are not my thing! Thank you for sharing and I look forward to the next video❤️ Give Joey a hug for me.

[@sammic974]

Sorry you were put thru the ringer for what turned out to be nothing but side effects of new brakes. On the upside, Joey loved your hotel room! Also you were able to sleep and be snug in the van until collection, rather than being in a standard car with no facilities for the night. It was heartwarming that the local police were keeping an eye on you. Your reward was a beautiful camping spot afterwards. Your comment about paying $160 to find nothing wrong resonated with me as it has just happened at the vets with one of our cats - it was £130 to rule out 4 things, and tomorrow another £50 to do a specific blood test to determine if pancreatitis (treatable condition) and if not pancreatitis, then it's very bad news for my beautiful baby. Watching Joey play with his green toy made me smile. Thank you and take care x

[@barbibutton9619]

Awww, prayers for good news. I have 6 now, lost 2 in the past 2 years. Keep us updated, please.

[@melissacoburn6873]

I'm very happy that you and Joey are okay!. As you were saying things could always be worse and it was just a little inconvenience. And now you got the best camping site ever ever ever! Keep on keeping on Tootsie

[@jeffwarren8154]

Sorry to hear of your troubles. New brakes can smell especially if they got “hot”. A good brake job will place a small amount of grease on the “back” side of the pads next to the caliper. When freshly serviced/applied, it can smoke, again if too hot. When braking down a longer steeper hill, apply and release the brakes. You should also put the transmission in 2nd gear to utilize engine braking to assist in slowing. Constant application of the brakes, even lightly, will heat up the brakes quickly. Sitting on the side of the road and allowing things to cool is a good plan. I tow a 30’ travel trailer and when going steep downhill, i crest the hill at a crawl, place transmission in 2, do not allow car/trailer to speed up much, and apply brakes hard then release them fully to allow cooling, hard apply and release/cool. I may holdup traffic but it is safety for me and others on the road. The brakes are probably off more than on. Again, do not “ride” the brakes, guaranteed to heat up and smoke/become ineffective.

[@hcarpam1]

I appreciate your information on the 2nd gear. I wondered when to use that 2nd gear and had that problem with my brakes coming down a steep mountain side. Thanks

[@cynthiaarebalo2866]

Im so happy that you are ok and your van is fine .I love the blog and I'm so happy that you and Joey are fine . You are an amazing person to do this

[@jessiferri2922]

Very helpful Jeff! Thanks

[@lauriehughes8085]

Great advice. When you don't know A whole lot about cars it's nice to be able to talk to someone who knows all about vehicle engines and how they work. If your dad never taught you a lot about cars it's hard to learn on your own, but you can learn.

[@katzsparkly8324]

@jeffwarren When you say you placed the transmission in 2, does that mean Low?

[@rohanb7303]

Put your vehicle in low gear when going down hills to avoid using brakes excessively.

[@MeganMcCune]

So happy everything turned out for ya!!! Also, my 15.5 year d maltese still plays. Not as much but he does and it take videos like it's his first time still. 🤣🤣

[@MeganMcCune]

Wow, if I could write🤦‍♀️🤣

[@teslah2997]

This REALLY sucks for you, Chantelle. So sorry you have to deal with this. So good, though, that the police offered to drive by periodically. And thinking of how it could be worse is a saving grace…..I do it whenever I have a difficult situation come up in life. It is a GREAT attitude to take! p.s…..I have NEVER heard that or had that happen with brakes on my vehicles…..and I have owned many in 60 yrs of driving…..and I had 2 or 3 vehicles at a time most of the time

[@sayitlouderforthepeopleint1114]

I love your spirit and how happiness finds you. No matter where, what, why, when or how, it finds you.

[@valerierichardson458]

The silver lining is that they didn't try to rip you off by saying you had other issues. Stay safe!

[@GwenDeeful]

Glad everything worked out . It is better to have the van towed and inspected than not.

[@sandiebrkr2697]

I have to be honest but it made me so nervous when Joey got near the cliff. He is the sweetest dog ever.

[@lynnerussell1440]

So very glad you and your van are okay. Stay safe.

[@susanelliott8901]

That scenery is so beautiful. What a beautiful place to destress from the brake ordeal.

[@mindy-ella3591]

You have the best personality and just a beautiful spirit! I’m so glad you are ok! 🤗

[@hannahsmith3132]

It’s always frustrating when you need help or something and it out of ur hands but we wish we could all be right there with you and hang out with you on the side of the road…. GOOD VIBES GIRLY😘🤩😁✌️😎

[@carolstockman7788]

You rocked that stressful situation 🙂

[@donnyt857]

Hugs… keep filming. Keep sharing. Stay strong. Sending positive thoughts. 💛 Stay brave. This is what I love about you. You’re doing what I’m to scared to do.

[@4yellowwolf]

To avoid going into fear & despair, Learn how to work on you van and troubleshoot when challenges arrive. All vehicles have challenges, knowing how to troubleshoot will help. Regular maintenance helps too. Good luck 🍀

[@Tammy121111]

SO HAPPY TO HEARS THAT YOUR OK & WHEN JOEY WAS PLAYING WITH his SQUEEKY TOY , LOL MY GIRL LOOKS AROUND FOR THAT TOY !! LOL WAYS TO FUNNY

[@marianfrances4959]

With every adventure comes risk...but what is life without adventure? 👍🇨🇦😎🐾🎄

[@sherrylovenguth657]

Glad everything turned out in the end! What a beautiful place to end the video.

[@nofences-dawnehollis8503]

Yes Chantelle I always wonder what you (or any solo female nomad) would do traveling or parked in a deserted place with car trouble. There are always reasons to see silver linings as depressing and scarey as that situation is. You inspire me.

[@summerstardust2064]

Glad your van is ok. I camped clear across Texas on back roads staying at every roadside rest I came across, Texas has tons of very nice ones. It was great and I never felt uncomfortable.

[@patriciahickle8433]

So glad everything worked out for you guys. It is beautiful

[@lundelover]

I am so sorry that you are suffering. It is scary to be alone in a broken-down vehicle. I know the feeling.

[@suearcher8708]

So, looking of the bright side with you, I'm glad you had a nice vacation in a hotel and your van is A OK. I hope this gives you a least a bit of a giggle, I found myself backing my chair up every time you got toooo close to the edge (especially that last one). And, you are right it is beautiful there!

[@marniecordell3770]

Glad to hear your van is good👍🏻 Joey is so stinkin cute 🥰. Amazing scenery 😇

[@1020LAStep]

I hate car trouble and react the same way as you. Glad it all worked out as it always does.

[@jessiferri2922]

Really beautiful campsite! Thank you for posting it! Good luck with your rig!

[@sharonhopkins4963]

Just glad u safe

[@veeemit9719]

Glad all was ok with your van

[@deborahrussell1609]

Aww, I was scared for you n joey..I'm so glad everything is ok..be safe.

[@LauraSmith-pf7ho]

Throughly enjoying your vlog. I love following someone living out her dream! Best wishes & safe travels 💜

[@comicmikesilverageadams8360]

So glad you're van is ok. My van keeps stalling. Been in the shop for a week. I'm lost without it. Cool video

[@annnaegele1846]

Absolutely gorgeous spot you found! Thanks for sharing! BTW...glad the van's ok💞

[@scottkingston3484]

Hello from England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🌹 thank you for the video 👍

[@vickigodin8634]

Great positive vibes!! Stay positive!!!

[@gigievans395]

Glad all is well, it wasn't for not gf. A minor learning curve as you learn your vehicle and what is a REAL concern and what is "livable" in the immediate situation. Knowing your vehicle "personally" is one of the MOST important things when depending on it for life and occupation! You learned a lot! Now, grab that pup and ROLL ON MISSY!! :) U GOT THIS!!

[@shawneeb3771]

What an amazing place, even with the van problems I envy you. I know all van people have to take the good with the bad, but to me after seeing the place you are at, I think it would be worth it.

[@lourdesgonzalez230]

Hey.. awesome video!!! Troubles may make you stronger!!!

[@suerop]

I'm relieved that you're back on the road and enjoying your beautiful surroundings. Car issues suck! Forgive me while I gush love for your sweet Joey. He's so adorable. I could follow him and his little wiggle butt around for hours. My Daisy Mae had that same squeaky toy, in pink. Squeak, squeak, shake, tug. Repeat. Please give him a nice, long belly rub and a big snout smooch from Grammie Sue. ❤💕💞 Be safe in your travels. Thank you for showing us our beautiful country.

[@shuttlebuswives7822]

✌️❤️🐶… you made it… and a beautiful ending 🤗❤️

[@tammyw.6181]

Sorry you were so stressed. Chalk this up to new information learned. Take care of yourself 😊

[@emarm100]

Beautiful campsite!

[@camiravenmore8940]

Wouldn't say it was normal however brakes can lock up, calipers etc. I had the brake switch changed on my vehicle and they didn't realize it had to be adjusted, caused my brakes to stay on completely, smoke was coming off the front tires and had the burning smell. So, perhaps if it happens again, you have them check your brake job.. which they should of done already. If they do lock up on you like that again, don't drive with them smoking, wait for them to cool off.. you end up with warped rotors and more damage that would be costly. Van life is for sure an adventure in many ways =) hang in there!

[@kimberlyknight4973]

Sorry to hear that about AAA I was thinking about changing from Allstate.

[@3generations393]

Oh my honey. This grandma is a Florida flatlander & would be smokin those brakes too I'm sure 😳 So happy for you that things worked out and congrat young lady for keeping your mind on the positives👍💕 Toe truck drivers put AAA at the end of their pick up list but Lord knows-I've depended on them more times than I care to admit. 🙏🙏 You and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving ❣️

[@patricia7947]

Joey not being leashed near the cliff was giving me serious anxiety.

[@lindatheodorou9827]

Me too!

[@LifeWithLeMaige]

Great editing I actually thought u made breaking news until I saw ur doggie lying on the bed on his back Lolol blessings!!!

[@samshepperrd]

If you sense smoke, pull over, leaving the engine running and in park. Get out and see where the smoke is coming from. Look under the hood. It there is smoking wires, turn engine off and call for help.

[@Tammy121111]

LOL , WE WERE IN DISNEY & I WENT ON A RIDE THAT SEEMED TO BE LIKE FLYING ABOVE THE GROUND AND OTHER THINGS & I CAN'T DO IT ANYMORE, IT REALLY SCARED ME AND SO WHEN YOU KINDA LOOKED OVER THE CLIFF MADE ME BREAK A SWET !! I'M DONE , LOL

[@Flessy89]

Maybe the universe needed you to stay still for a reason at least that's the way I like to think. Great vid!

[@shellyhorton1526]

I'm sorry about your problems. I hope everything is ok. It's so hard when you dont know anything about cars. I struggle with little things on my car. Like getting a headlight replace. I think I was charged to much! 30.00

[@anner6342]

Your journey is amazing. We all learn along the way and I've learned from your experiences! Thank you for sharing your honest journey! Joey's new toy is my dog's favorite too! Flash's is blue and I call him the Blue Guy even though it's not a guy.... Regardless when I launch in a month, Blue Guy will be with us. Hope to see you on the road!

[@crusinwithmoe924]

Omg no way 😠🤔 that would be my luck but you did Good girl ✌️☮️☮️☮️❤️🤗😁🌄☮️☮️

[@chars.9780]

My fear of heights would have had me dreaming I was falling off a cliff all night lol.

[@originalmamagrizzly2478]

I wondered about stuff like this… now i know…

[@janiswilliams2766]

Can you tell me what roof box ypu have and if it’s easy for you to get into it? I’m 5’3 and that roof box looks really tall. Can you get through drive thrus with it?

[@jaX-mg3ow]

Aww

[@angelalibby1359]

Hi! I’m glad everything was ok! I did have a question. How do you find your amazing campsites?? Is there an app you use or does the universe just especially love you? I’m planning on traveling after school next year and you have definitely inspired me ❤️

[@susanmaguire9009]

I know! I’ve asked this same question? Would love to know also.

[@BrotherAlan]

You sure don't seem nervous about travelling alone. Have you thought of caravanning with others? That seems popular if you find a group that aligns with your personality.

[@goddesspetina603]

when going down hill drop down a gear or 2 and let your motor slow you down.. it will save your brakes..

[@peggyjohnson3688]

THANK YOU GOD. IN JESUS NAME BLESS YOU CHANTELLE AN JOE.STAY THERE FOR A LITTLE WHILE LOVE AN HUGS MS PEGGY FROM COLOGNE MN

[@MeganMcCune]

2ndddd

[@originalmamagrizzly2478]

Your AAA benes should include a hotel stay too, that they pay for….

[@heatherburrell8412]

Sadly this is the reality of America workforce across the country in every industry …. Especially with the specific skills needed to tow …..you do not want just anyone ….who may tear the car apart …

[@benedictquackers3046]

ᴠᴇʀʏ ɴɪᴄᴇ 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@shanniwelsh133]

I’m not sure if you know how inspirational your videos are! I think so many of us deal with fear that something will go wrong and we will have to figure it out on our own. This fear can stop us from doing all of the things that we long to do! You are so great at moving through these experiences. You feel the fear and keep going into the situation and the solutions. I’m so grateful that you share all of this with us! ❤️

[@TheTravelLifeMama]

Your attitude in life is going to get you far. You know that sometimes things are not all rose pedal and rainbows but you are able to adapt and look at the bright side of things. Being negative is such a drain on life so always finding the silver lining is the best way to go. I am glad nothing serious was wrong with your van and you were able to continue your amazing journey with cute little Joey.

[@MyBasicJourney]

❤😊❤ Thank you.

[@777LadyVenus]

Your such a beautiful soul and light in this world! Your so brave and inspiring! I’m starting nomadic life next January because of you and a few other women that have my heart! I’m going to be in southern Utah and Arizona! Let’s get together! Much love and gratitude

[@dionnerd1]

It might be useful to get Haynes manual for you minivan is they have them in the states. At least you'll be able to troubleshoot if you have problems. Love from London xx

[@pandachickenmama]

I would also add Deanna Sclar's book, "Auto Repair For Dummies" which my mom bought me right out of highschool when I started out on my own. We women need to educate ourselves so we aren't taken advantage of by unscrupulous repair people. Having a hard copy to carry in the vehicle especially when cell service can be iffy and help a ways off can assist in keeping nerves calm. I was once an hour and a half from an auto parts store when my gas line sprung a leak and was spraying my engine with gasoline. Having tools with me and a bit of ingenuity helped me prevent a dire catastrophe where I had no cell service to call for help.

[@thelmahenriques6454]

God was definitely watching over you, so thankful. What a beautiful sight you had to relax and regroup. Isn't it wonderful to have little Joey? Puppies can put a smile on your face and joy in your heart. Take care.

[@bettybrigance6784]

You did the right thing....and the $ cost for peace of mind was on your sweet face, Joeys too....thanks for sharing..you take care of yourself and keep going

[@cyoohoos]

Only 3 officers???? That place must be Mayberry. You’ll be OK. If that ain’t the most jerry rigged tow truck. Like literally. And sometimes that $157 is worth your peace of mind.

[@jaysenjensen7375]

That's what I was thinking, waited a day for that Jerry rigged tow. Very bad on AAA

[@teslah2997]

WHY did you leave so soon???? If I was in sucha beautiful place, I would stay the maximum number of days allowed. I guess it is because you need to make vids every week in new location?

[@mygypsyadventure3610]

Good to show things like this so people dont think vanlife is trouble free. That could have ended in the loss of your vehicle and home if something major had been wrong so consider it a warning and a blessing. Consider yourself lucky it wasnt middle of July and 115 degrees. Things can always be worse. Glad it all worked out. Lesson learned.

[@Mooniicky]

Sorry you had such a stressful time. Well done picking yourself up and finding a lovely place to recover. Take care of you ❤

[@sharonfisher3179]

At the moment of commitment the entire universe conspires to assist you. ~Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

[@jwatk7991]

My favorite Sunday morning show! Safe travels.

[@TheTravelLifeMama]

Mine too!

[@outtherebound5259]

For sure! Mine also!

[@juliepeace418]

I'm glad everything turned out okay with your van. Safe travels my friend.

[@ivycarter2045]

Glad everything went well. Are you not afraid of being outside in that campground alone.

[@sharonwilliams6963]

Glad nothing was wrong with the van you and Joey continue with travel great video work beautiful place

[@donaldtharp]

Glad your van was okay and you got through the scary moments well. Blessings

[@janetbaumgardner7492]

Glad everything worked out with the van. Joey is so adorable. Yes Beautiful place.❤

[@juliescheidler7763]

I'm sure glad everything turned out well, now you can relax with Joey.

[@chuckforget2854]

Another notch of wisdom garnered through the school of hard knocks, bravo to you young lady. Wisdom in your toolbox of life will carry you far on your earthwalk. Be well

[@eh5945]

What a stunning place Chantelle, in the end you really lucked out!! It’s also nice to see you safe and happy 😃

[@catherinebiggs8162]

Beautiful location! Joey is so fun to watch! Glad you are ok. 😎👍🏼🧐

[@Texasishot105]

I'm so sorry you went through all this. We had the same issue with AAA, on October 6th, we had a accident on a highway in remote Texas... after 5 hrs, AAA tells us they have no one 'willing' to come get us. 😳 It was horrific. I feel your pain.❤

[@huskychronicles3249]

The 18 hours wait wasn't all for nothing, it was meant to be a part of your journey. It's a learning experience and we all learn in different ways.

[@tanyapizzolattoshimmerngtarot]

Joey is so adorable. He is the best scenery. At the end of the video He is watching you talk like it's the most fascinating thing in the world. I just want to hug him:)

[@jasper123453]

Omgosh I about had a heart attack when Joey went too close to the edge of the cliff! I'm glad it was nothing hugh wrong with your van. Beautiful camp spot!!! Do you have a link for your camp chair? It looks sturdy and comfortable. Where did you get your outside rug too? It looks nice!

[@susantomkins8798]

I am a bit older than you, don't know much but I know this: you did exactly the right thing by stopping when there's smoke, based on what you knew at the time, and believe me no experience is wasted there's always something to learn for everyone. Loving your videos BTW !!!

[@MarkousMajorSurf]

Glad ur ok n ur baby but I'm dumping my TRIPLE A that's unacceptable!!! Ty

[@kathybest6950]

I’m glad everything turned out okay. Having to pay out that month sucks☹️ Joey seems just fine , for him the most important thing was being with his mommy. He looked so happy and cute playing with his toy.

[@gracec6485]

Something about AAA when your out in the boonies they hate traveling so far to help you. Same thing happened to me when I was stranded with a flat tire on the side of the road in NM in a deserted area. The time they told me they would come would be more than a few hours. Luckily a cop passing by helped me change it for me. Glad you made it out okay and that it was nothing more stressful for you as far as expenses go with your van. 🙏🏽

[@connieeaton48]

Joey was adorable with his pretty green toy .