RENT IS TOO EXPENSIVE: 6 Items YOU NEED for Vanlife + Our First Story!

Rent is too expensive and it is causing lots of people to consider other options. Here are 6 items you need for vanlife that might not be that obvious. Plus we got our first story from a member of the community!
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Matthew Allen
Unit # 112
440, 10816 Macleod Trail S.E.
Calgary, AB Canada
T2J 5N8
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My name is Matthew and I live in a van. I lost my job due to "cut backs" from the pandemic of 2020 and decided to seriously restructure my life. I am also a single dad who needed to find a solution that would allow me to remain in my daughter's life and plan for her future. After tons of research into #vanlife, I knew it was for me.
From March 2021 until October 2021 I spent my days building out my Chevrolet Express 2500, which came to be known as "Lucky" and as of October 18, 2021 I have been living in Lucky full time.
The build was done with almost no experience on my end and I used the one incredible tool I had at my disposal - the internet - to learn what I needed to build Lucky into a very comfortable tiny home.
I have always had a bit of a passion for being in front of the camera and really enjoy capturing the world around us. This really played into how I was feeling after almost a year of working from home when I "commuted" from the bedroom to the couch. I was starting to feel extremely unhealthy, unmotivated and despondent. I HATED that, and that's not a word I like to throw around. This new lifestyle gives me opportunities I just didn't have before and I am so excited to be able to share it all with you.
I truly believe we all have the capabilities to turn our lives around, should we choose to do so - and if I can inspire you to shoot for something better then I have done a decent job and that will keep me going.
There is more to life than the consume, consume, spend, spend lifestyle I feel we have all been conditioned to follow and I just want to do the best I can for myself first and foremost. Our time is limited and I do not want to waste another second on a lifestyle that doesn't bring me joy!
Be Happy, Be Creative, Be Yourself and BE POSITIVE!

[@beckyestrada7339]

I was forced into van life through homelessness. 9 months later, I got into affordable housing. I wouldn't do it again unless forced to. I admire those of you who can find the positive in it. For me, I was grateful for the shelter it provided, but at 64 with health and mobility issues, amid the challenges of Covid, it was truly demoralizing. I hated it. Strangely enough though, I understand why so many choose it as opposed to high rent, and demoralizing jobs that offer nothing but drudgery. I love your sense of humor, and positivity.

[@justaddlivingwater]

I'm Glad I Found Matthew, But I was Doing In #vanlife In The 90's before it was cool, while in college working & school. I Agree Only B Cuz I Suffer from Several Chronic Bone Diseases, I'm Alone, No Help, 13 Yr. Abuse, Inflation, Seizures (high Blood Pressure). I Live on $855 a month, Thats Less Than $9,000 a Year, I Didn't Have time to prepare On Top of Everything My Van (2003 Honda Odessey Van), There's No Room, Broken Window, The Tcs Light Comes On & Needs A New Trans. It Will Only Run Between 20-30 Miles. I Have No Idea What I'm Doing. I Don't Have $ For A lot Of the Gadgets U Need, I Got Sick, Left Everything and Gave the Rest to A Family in Need. If This was 3 Yrs. ago No Prob. In & Out of Hospital The 1st Night I Slept in My Van in The Front Seat. The Passenger Side Window Is Broken & Down, 20* Weather, My Entire Body Waist Down My Body Was Locked Up For 3 Hours. It's Sad I Had to Get an Airbnb, Now, I'm Broke. I'm In College For my 3rd Degree, I Want to Work, But a liability. I have a small channel, everything in my Van Is All My Art Tools & Supplies Which I Was Going To Put In A Storage, I don't have Enough doe, But Just Trying To Get Across to The Smokies Before It Snows. I Will Barter Shelf Stable Foods, Designer Clothes & other Incredible Minimalization Items for Items from Ex Van Lifers Who No Longer Need, Like Solar Gen, Heaters, Things Like That., I Love That Story, like Real Van Life Channels, because some make It Seem So Glamourous or Leave out certain important info. that could be useful. Any Advice Would Be Great, My Channel Is Tiny, So I Have No Way to Monetize. or get it all organized. to have room for a Bed. Ill Take Any Suggestions. Ty God Bless You All Be safe.

[@dross24MA]

@@justaddlivingwater I went to your site -- you are talented and the artwork is impressive, plus it was fun watching you paint the couple under the umbrella - quite inventive. Good luck with your venture!

[@TheLeopardGirl]

Almost 10k subs wow this channel is taking off!!!✈️

[@miriamneuman2545]

"Horking a big loogie of toothpaste!" Yup. I laughed out loud for real.

[@martna1]

I live in a home alone at 70. In order to save money on water for dishes I eat my breakfast on a paper plate covered with Saran Wrap. I can make that plate last for 2 weeks. Dakota's story was so cute!

[@jefftaylor844]

Your paper plate hack is awesome !

[@jimv77]

Would using water and vinegar in a spray bottle work as well to save money and have a sturdier eating plate?

[@Pammellam]

I think your idea is very creative. I know you are not living in a van, but a Japanese van-lifer I watch puts foil and/or Saran wrap on his camp plates when eating, his plates are aluminum. You don’t necessarily need to use a paper plate. Another thing he did was to spray some kind of disinfectant on his table top where he ate before and after eating as he didn’t have much water to use for washing up either. Matt’s vinegar idea might work or an alcohol spray might be useful.

[@SimplyCelticVanLife]

Love the paper plate hack, martna1. Would never had thought of it.

[@kookietherapy9398]

That's Ridiculous !

[@jennyriede5372]

Nice story by Dacota.

[@jamestaylor8860]

When I first found your channel I wasn’t impressed. You looked like a Chrome clone, hair cut included, but I must say you’ve grown on me. I am a subscriber and thank you for the videos.

[@maureenmccurry9482]

Matthew is the best! I have since unsubscribed from Chrome!

[@lja6420]

HeHe, we all know the real stars of the subs going up.. 🐈🐈

[@Jesusjunkie402]

We were forced into vanlife. Now we are living in a RV...love the luxury but miss living stealthy.

[@ck6070]

Awesome video Matthew. You are doing it. ………. 10,000 subs will happen TODAY I can see the numbers climbing before my eyes!!!!!!

[@TheLeopardGirl]

I loved the story Dakota especially about the rat that was cute!💖

[@Bernimv]

My brother started me with Ryobi drill at start in nomad living I did buy fan I love both of em, I am still looking for the vacuum .. I was do deeply touched by Dakota's van journey..yes I too had mice it almost sound they were conspiring as I heard them squeaking bag n forth. Did get rid of them with yelling at them and Peppermint essential oil in diffuser..keeps away flies stinker bug etc

[@navigatingthedestination]

So close to 10hr livestream Matthew 😄😁 subscribe numbers are finally increasing quickly man. 🙌 love it.

[@happydays59]

I can't believe you're not over 100,000 yet. You're so much more entertaining and informative than some vanlife channels who are. You're appreciated very much. Also as an Edmontonian I think you might be part superhero to be getting through winters in your van. I can barely get from my home to the car 🌬️😱. Dakota's story was so honest and touching too.💕

[@VanlifePLUS]

Very very kind of you to say, thank you for the friendly words I appreciated them

[@marybriseno436]

You make watching you so inviting. Thanks for the cute story and other van ideas. I'm retired and I have been living in my 2020 Ford Tranisit Connect for 2 years. It's small but enough room for me my little dog Cher. I've been building in my van . Well see you on your next video.

[@neverwares]

So close to 10k!

[@rockymountainnational.park8086]

I'm so glad I ran accross you! You are both humorous and serious all at the same time your great!

[@onetuffchick7465]

Hello Matthew, how about a video with six non-essential items that make Lucky feel like home? 🤓

[@1971JGG]

Oh and yes thank you Dakota I enjoyed your tale too xx

[@skistrycharski6999]

I so enjoy you’re Dickie’s....OK don’t get excited ! LOL

[@jackieluckyangel5610]

Nice of Stella to put in a guest appearance 😺. But where’s Penny😻? 9.84k - better get some extra sleep this week- 10k / 10 hour live coming up soon. Congratulations Matt 😘🥰💞

[@capaddler]

🎉🎉 his numbers are growing now!! 🍀🍀

[@underscr0e]

@@capaddler should keep growing with winter here!

[@capaddler]

@@underscr0e for sure 👍

[@afinnimore1]

That was so quick!

[@VanmaRuth]

Great video Matthew! Stay warm in sunny Alberta. Much love and hugs

[@tobybyrddash2322]

Matthew, even if you’re in a sticks and bricks you will enjoy this channel😘😘

[@TheLeopardGirl]

Love the shirt!😊

[@ry-man4354]

I will be giving up apartment life in 2023 and moving into my truck which I will be converting into a pop up camper. I'm doing this because for some time now I haven't been able to afford to travel to see my son. By giving up rental life, I will finally be able to save money and focus on what matters most. And I may never turn back!

[@blairinhemet]

loved Dakota's story and I love this idea--I'm sorting through 76 years of tales but will come up with one soon

[@greygoosegranny]

Van life videos have become my new rabbit hole, with the uncertainty in the world today I have been looking into this alternative life style. I was glad to find your channel , as you live in Calgary, not too far from where I am. I always wondered how people survived in cold weather. Now I know....lol. I am rather shocked at how many people my age, sixty plus, are living this way. Dakotas story really touched my heart, it sounded like she was struggling but was still capable of compassion for a small creature. Keep up with your awesome videos.

[@jenniferh8004]

OMG when I first found your channel I was looking for a minivan to convert. Waited too long but am still looking. Hope to retire to a van so I can follow the sun. Dealing with the Calgary winter that you do makes me feel whimp like😂

[@Mysteryofitall]

Matt, you are a natural teacher! You are a storyteller, take your time, explain and bring out features of your subject, creatively build a full circle of information and your presentation is backed up my the gift of your calming voice. Wonderful idea, sir! Can't wait to hear more stories and or essentials. Great stuff!

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you Mystery, I’m glad the idea has been so well received thus far!

[@skistrycharski6999]

I know U plan it out, the exhaust from the Diesel heater blowing on your rear tire. Too warm it up LOL !

[@herlindahuskey]

Hospice worker here, my big sister gifted me my 99 Chevy van, 2019, still in my beautiful van…

[@1971JGG]

Brilliant presenting style Matthew and your positivity has spread to me in Lancashire England and am sure it will keep spreading. I subscribed only a few days ago and already hooked in. Good vibes in these times. Thank you 🙏

[@cindyhopkins3989]

Great content, love the story!!

[@beyouvanlife]

Love the story Dakota

[@LarryWannamaker]

Great story Dakota. Love the part about the rat.Enjoy being a grandmother, grandchildren are the best.

[@marconion]

The drive to 10K subscribers continues. If you are not subscribed what are you waiting for? GET'ER DONE! Smash the like button, share and comment even if it is just to say hi. Also engage and like other comments. As always go out there you guys, be happy, be creative, be yourselves and most importantly be positive.

[@marconion]

TIP: Each time a viewer intentionally initiates the playing of a video on their device and watches for at least 30 seconds it counts as a "view". If a viewer watches a video more than once, each screening will be counted as a new view. The more views a video receives the more KZbin recommends/pushes the video to non subscribers.

[@ck6070]

Hey Marc, thanks for sharing all these tips to get more exposure to Matthew’s channel. I’ve been sharing this channel like crazy the past week. Hopefully it’s helping 😀

[@c.victoriaritchie3466]

Love Dakota's story❤️

[@Biggja22]

Again as a truck driver pretty spot on I have the slightly more expensive ryobi vacuum. We all need a laundry bag you just need to find the right one for your space. Everyone should have at least one knife. I'm not sold on the sink I don't care where I'm at I'll spit out the window but then again I'm a dirty ol trucker. I use paper plates in my truck but real plates in my van.

[@SewingBoxDesigns]

Re: sinks. Depends on if you're a man or a woman. If one is a woman, the least amount of sink can be a storage tub with a lid. Dishes are one thing, hair washing and small laundry is another. It should ideally be large enough to fit your plates in. Plus, if you put your dishes in with a few drops of soap, cover the dishes with water, put the lid on, and drive, you have a dish washer. Same for laundry. You can take the bucket into a public park or gas station restroom and rinse everything.

[@carolinekersey2981]

So I have just started watching you and I am addicted to your channel already. You have great content but also some really funny humour. I know you are nearly at 10K but I am sure this channel will fly. Thanks very much.🤓

[@alanshaffer6724]

Hi Matthew

[@VanlifePLUS]

Hi Alan!

[@unedited2716]

👍 GREAT PRODUCTIONS 🎥I see your little tank is full by the frost level.tip if you run HOT water you can 👀see the level of fuel left.PROUD OF YOU KEEP PUMPING US YOUR THOUGHTS.LETS GOO DAM YOU MADE ME THINK OF MY GRANDPA WHO 🔥 FIRED UP MY MENTAL TOUGHNESS GENE FROM HIM .

[@GrannyGrice]

I love that! Way to be brave Dakota!

[@lifewithpugwinkle]

I absolutely loved Dakota's story. Amazing person to keep the rat as a pet. So cool. I hope she has a very long life and can tell that story to her grandkids over and over again. Thanks for sharing with us Dakota! And what a great idea Matt to included other's stories. I love it!

[@jenniferh8004]

Love the addition of vehicle dwelling essentials and other’s personal stories. Great job Matt!

[@Top_Art_Collector]

Watching your videos always gives me that ray of sunshine on a cloudy, gloomy day. Thank you. For some reason, you remind me that I should always be the best version of myself. More power to your channel.

[@maryhight6030]

Great story Dakota. Thank you for sharing. One day I'll share mine ❤️

[@cristinamason6593]

Love your wit and sense of humor! 😂

[@podcastbard]

The covered wagon was the first vanlife mobile home.

[@robinkirk4020]

Congrats on the 9 thousand Matt we adore your platform ❤🤗💚🤗

[@vallovesnature8449]

I seriously use my empty green tea bottle when I brush my teeth. Everything is contained & I can dump it in the toilet, rinse it out & recycle it. All our journeys are custom fit & definitely a learning process.

[@nancymomfam4761]

Good job Dakota! Throughly loved your story ! As always Matthew... another banger! Your videos really help me with all the stress that's currently going on in my life. Peace love and light always from Kansas ✌️💕☀️🌻💪💯

[@carolynrivera9745]

I really enjoyed your video. I always love how you incorporate your family in your vlogs. Especially memories of your Grandfather ❤ See I ramble too lol. But I always looks forward to you on here, great tips by the way. And a lovely story by a Subscriber. Well that's enough said talk to you later take care

[@rhondacooper3565]

Love the way you reiterate the story and respond. Good style for you...for a new thing!👏

[@beyouvanlife]

Good Morning Matt!

[@capaddler]

Enjoyed the video as always Matthew. Congrats on your fast rising numbers 🎉. Dakota’s story was great. Loved to hear it.

[@lynh8378]

Lol. Your sink story is a crack up ......

[@sarahr9181]

Congrats 🍾🎈🎉 on 10k, Matt!!! No one deserves it more than you!! ❤️

[@adeanaargle5739]

Well that was cool to hear that story! Thanks for doing this on your channel ❤ COME ON 10k BEFORE THE NEW YEAR!!!

[@louellentrevino]

Dakota, thank you for sharing your story with us! You are one brave lady, that's clear! Enjoy your family and sweet kitty!

[@roseharber-mamachipmunkscr6552]

I am living vicariously thru you. I grew up loving to camp. Every Friday when mom and dad got home from work , we loaded up in the truck with a camper shell that dad built beds in it and headed out to one of the state parks. And came home on Sunday. Memorial weekend to labor day. This was back in 1964 to about 1973

[@olejacobstalesen6558]

That mic is making such a difference!

[@jabbord6352]

Fire extinguisher ( I’m glad you had it !) & first aid kit are essentials that could be added in your list. You are an inspiration !

[@robint01]

Congratulations💥10K Matt!💥 I enjoyed Dakota's story very much.💕 It's such a great idea to share life experiences in this way.

[@charlene5461]

🎉🎇CONGRATULATIONS🎉🎇 10.4K and climbing! 💖🤗💖🐱💖🐱💖

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thanks Charlene!

[@ck6070]

10,000 subs, over 1000 in one day. Congratulations Matthew🎉🎆

[@morganmaddison8633]

great story from Dakota and her pal rat. did she name it Ben by any chance? (lol, I don't know if everyone remembers that movie "Ben", maybe you do Matt you movie buff!) I love the idea of the multi-use tool that has everything you need in one. Certainly, saves space and if you invest in a quality one like you mention, you won't have to replace it time and time again.

[@SimplyCelticVanLife]

Another awesome video. I am working on a video for how I save space in my tiny kitchen in my van. The key is I purchase mostly collapsible kitchenware and that saved storage space in such a small space. Those of us that live in our vehicles know how much storage space is a commodity. I sent you my story. Stay safe and travel on!

[@shelleywinters6763]

I'm interested in saving space :) cool

[@angelmitchell8920]

Congratulations on the 10k subscribers!! Well earned and well deserved!

[@RVingwithLuck]

Good info, but I am concerned that you are pulling all this out of your poop bucket. Lol Now that’s it’s winter, you should do a video on staying warm in a vehicle in freezing temps. I, like you, can fire up my rigs heater. But not are all as fortunate as us. So layering and thermals are my thing. I do like a candle or two (😂), and other things.

[@richardhenry1969]

I enjoy you humor. Most of all I like the fact you have the same make and model van I have. I like seeing your struggles helps me design my floor plan. I'd much love to meet you when I get my van together. Only downside I see is Canada has a war on freedom. I very much support freedom! I also very much stand behind the Canadian truckers that helped end the tyranny at their own expense. My God look after these great people. Keep up the good work. An remember a person that stands for nothing is just that!

[@terryl6706]

I have the same Ryobi vacuum,love that the battery can be used with multiple tools.

[@kathyrobert9859]

Love dakotas story and all the practical advice Matt… on your way to 10k subs !

[@afinnimore1]

Congratulations on 10 k 😃🍻

[@freedomdove]

Good video for newbies, Matthew. I guess I can see why some people need advice on the essentials, especially if they just came across vanlife recently and/or they are young. I bought a vacuum kind of like yours but it was too big for my rig. I sold that one and replaced it with a smaller USB-chargeable unit. Works just as well. Thankfully, I already had a laundry bag so I didn't have to buy one. I bought a cheap version of the Leatherman. It's a challenge for me, too. Lol. I'm sure it will get easier once it's been used a bit. It's just very stiff right now. No room in my rig for a sink or grey tank. I'll be able to manage. I already clean dishes out here in my garage without a sink or running water. There's a video on my channel showing how I do that. It's in my "nomad life" playlist. I have buckets and a basin that I can use outside, along with a USB-chargeable shower head and pump (and a shower tent). I don't plan on city dwelling, but if I was then I would just use public bathrooms and showers. I'd probably get a gym membership if I was living in a city. My Reliance bucket will be used for my loo (#2) and a regular stool I can sit on since it has a tight-fitting lid. I have 2 wide-mouth canning jars that I already pee in every day. They get dumped in the toilet in the house, but I've also had to toss it right outside my door in an emergency. Lol. The garage is 30 feet away, plus a trek through the house. It's like going into a public bathroom. For times when I can't do either of those things, I'll pour the pee into a used cat-litter jug. I'm a smoker, so I always have lighters and matches on hand. I have a long candle lighter for the stove, though the igniter still works for now. I like redundancy so I have several ways to cook. Two electric burners of different wattages, a mini Instant Pot, a dual-fuel single burner stove, and a little folding twig stove. Oh, and I got a collapsible fire pit, in case I want to start a campfire where there isn't a fire ring, and a pair of gloves that can handle a lot of heat. Also a fire poker and a folding multi-utensil thingamabob. It's like the Leatherman but bigger, and it has all the utensils you need to cook/grill (knife, spatula, fork, etc.). I made a bunch of fire starters using some beeswax and pet bedding wood shavings that I had sitting around. Electricity is big on my list, along with 12v fridge/freezers. I have 4 power stations (more redundant systems), plus a couple small power banks. The stations can charge while I'm driving, but I also got solar panels for when I'm stationary. I have multiple light sources, from flashlights to fairy lights to bug lights and a headlamp--and everything in between. You need warm bedding for winter. I have a couple 110v heating pads/blankets, too, since I don't have a diesel or propane heater. The emergency candle lantern I have puts out a decent amount of heat, but I can't use it while sleeping. I have a few USB fans and a bigger 12v fan for summers, though I can only use the big one in my Clam shelter since my rig is smallish. I fashioned blackout curtains for the windows, and I'm in the process of making bug screens. Other must-haves, IMO: trash can and bags, first-aid kit, tools, air compressor and gauge, tire-repair kit, battery jumper and/or jumper cables, one of those emergency glass-breaking tools, fire extinguisher if cooking inside, a bug-out/hiking bag with all the survival needs (fire starting, a smaller first-aid kit, water filtration, cookpot, NOAA radio, flashlight, knife, paracord, space blanket, sewing kit, hand-sanitizing wipes, snacks, etc.), a mirror, and space for personal hygiene products and supplements/meds. For solo boondockers, an emergency beacon is also important. Thermometers are good to have, so you can quickly see the ambient temperature. I also keep them in my 12v fridge units. A small pop-up tent is nice when you need to leave your campsite and want to come back to it. I have a grabber thingy to pick up trash at campsites, and I'll also have a box of nitrile gloves in my rig. People should think about their hobbies after figuring out where to store the essentials like food, water, clothing, and such. You made room for your videos because that's your passion. I'm making room for books, since that's what I'm into.

[@freedomdove]

@@marconion 😊

[@sw33ti3scandleco33]

Just a suggestion video I would love to see a survival Kit for people who live in there vehicles

[@liltoaster05]

Just noticed you hit 10K Subscribers!!!!!!! CONGRATULATION'S

[@3dognite]

Great video Matt. You're 6 items you.need is on point. Your first story with Dakota was nice. I hope more people share their story. Thanks for sharing Matt.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thanks Ray! I have received 4 more so far 😊

[@3dognite]

@@VanlifePLUS Sweet!

[@patriciacarter4227]

Great video, Matt! I love your 'calmer' approach these days. Very informative and still fun! 🤗 Ps: Dakota rocks! 🥰

[@cardkast1499]

Congrats on 10K Subs Matt!! Dakota's story was awesome! Can't wait to hear more...and I am amazed at how many essential items you can pull out of...an essential item:)

[@VanlifePLUS]

lol thanks buddy! That’s very generous of you. And I got lots more submissions already!

[@cardkast1499]

Sarah and I were talking earlier and we said it feels like our favorite team won a championship (when you hit 10K and now 10.5!). We are soooo happy for you! Keep up the great work....but also enjoy your trip this weekend

[@FeMiNem-Poet]

This channel is so great! Thank You!!🌷🌸🌷

[@VanlifePLUS]

Aww I’m very glad you think so! Thank you for watching 😁

[@karjurassic8364]

Greetings! I enjoyed “Story Time with Matthew!” Cute concept. ✌🏻💕

[@colettemitchell3412]

A week in my van, I built a sink, first paycheck bought a vacuum. Another thing I just had to have during the last summer was a fly swatter. Another thing about non-paper plates, I feel like it's more of a home. Thanks for the video. I worked out of state all summer in my van and at the end of the month I will be moving in full-time. I can't afford to stay here any longer. Best of luck everyone. It is a scary thing to have to live in your vehicle. Just selling everything I owned was so overwhelming.

[@shelleywinters6763]

Yeah I couldn't sleep in my van on my own, I'm scared even with my husband there. I think it's mostly safe though, we've had nothing bad happen to us. We are part timers though, I guess.

[@johncullerton]

Hiya, I'm in the UK and our van life "existence" differs very much from yours. As a result many top tip videos don't really relate. Have to say though, yours really resonated. Subscribed, keep it up and thank you.

[@amyfu2047]

Hello Matt! I’m Amy and I usually live in my van in Whitehorse Yukon. Unfortunately at the moment my jackery which I used to power my diesel heater is dead so my parents graciously allowed me to move into home for the winter. Unfortunately until my van is paid off cash is tight. These are all fantastic ideas!! I’m glad to have discovered another Canadian vanlifer!! I use regular plates and silverware. To clean them I use baby wipes if I’m in a hurry, and when I have more time I just have a spray bottle with water and vinegar.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Hi Amy! Nice to “meet” you and welcome to the channel. I hope I can make it up to the Yukon one day, I’ve wanted to visit for a while.

[@charlene5461]

🙋 Dakota! Congrats on finding your happy, loving place and SUPER congratulations on the grandbaby and fur baby! Thank you for sharing your journey! See you around in the chats and vlogs😀

[@caroloum5323]

Excellent excellent. Love your presentation of the essentials. Good to know. I think the story telling will take off. Love hearing them. You give me a laugh as well with your bits of humor in the video. I am only new to the channel but will look forward to watching more. Stay warm in you cosy van with your cats. 😊😊

[@VanlifePLUS]

Welcome to the channel Caroloum! Very happy to have you here 😊

[@christy76840]

Great story Dakota. And great video Matt

[@gmackinnon648]

As usual, great video. Keep em coming!😊

[@Pammellam]

Matt, 🎉congratulations🎉 on getting over ❤🎉10,000🎉❤ subscribers. ❤❤Fantastic. ❤❤ I think these kinds true to life van-life pointers and life lessons are wonderful. You and some others are pioneers and path finders for many to follow! Especially for those who will be working and doing van-life!

[@Mooniicky]

Lovely story - left me wanting to know more. Thanks to Dakota for sharing.

[@equynenergie]

I live in BC and have a cat too. I am widowed and the time has come where we will be downsizing to a tiny home on wheels as I cannot afford and qualify for a new mortgage. You give me hope ❤

[@alwayswandering52531]

Cool story but not sure i could make a rat my pet!

[@MsSoozy]

Doing these stories give others information and very useful tips.I like it. 😎🍻

[@chapman1569]

I would like videos about meals you prepare in your van. Since you have a fridge you can have some leftovers and have fresh veggies. How do you warm them up? Thank you

[@lisagemojiqueen5965]

Am new to your channel it's great much love and light from New Zealand ✨🌹✨

[@WendyCooley]

Congratulations on hitting 10,000 you deserve it. 😀

[@LisaCisaPisa]

Wow, I love Dakota’s story. I agree, you’ll be reaching a 100k subs soon. You’ve got a great sense of humor and share well put together content. Look forward to you sharing more stories from this community.

[@hideawaysailing9078]

Matthew you are real comedian 😂🤣 I love your videos and your vanlife is very nice. I cut hair at First Choice Haircutters and can see myself living in a van easily parking outside my work I would love it 👍

[@GEAUXFRUGAL]

Lived out of my truck when I was trucker 2 weeks OTR.I would get days off ; rented hotel with pool for 3 days and retuned to work.. Saved plenty money.

[@blessedveteran]

I also use the vinegar for my dishes. I was worried about the smell but it doesn't leave a smell so it's been great 👍

[@equynenergie]

Minute 22 is very valid ❤