Haven't Done This in 2 YEARS since starting Vanlife

Sometimes you should just do some stuff for yourself - and in doing THIS I realized it feels funny when it comes to certaint things since I haven't done them in 2 years. Off on a modest adventure, finding beauty and comedy wherever I can.
Support the Channel:
Patreon: / vanlifemovies
Paypal: PayPal.me/vanl...
MERCH STORE: vanlifeplus-sh...
AMAZON WISH LIST: www.amazon.ca/...
Support Craze Outdoors!
www.crazeoutdo...
Use code VANLIFEPLUS at checkout to save 10% off your first order!
Amazon Storefront:
www.amazon.ca/...
If you purchase something through this link I may recieve some compensation
Mailbox:
Matthew Allen
Unit # 112
440, 10816 Macleod Trail S.E.
Calgary, AB Canada
T2J 5N8
DISCOUNT CODES:
VTOMAN JUMP 1000 Portable Power Station:
vtoman.com/pro...
Use my code for 10% OFF (not combined with flash-sales): VTOVLP
On Rumble: rumble.com/use...
VanlifePLUS Q.A. Back Up Channel: / @vanlifeplusq.a.2206
Contact
Instagram: @vanlifeplusmovies
Facebook: / vanlifeplusmovies
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!

[@Grammy_Indyof2]

Oh Matt, Thank you for sharing this beautiful episode. Your have taken me places I can never see. Your drone shots are fantastic. This 73 year old lady looks forward to you episodes so much

[@VanlifePLUS]

I appreciate that and I’m very glad you enjoy the footage I capture 😊

[@LakeGeorgeLass]

As does this 67 year old lady, Grammy!

[@janet1744]

80 year old granny here.😂

[@janetmcburney4582]

Anyone that didnt want to go on that hike with you missed out on some stunning scenery. Amazing thanks

[@VanlifePLUS]

It is an amazing little spot

[@tamararummel2027]

Wow, your filmography is wonderful! Some of those beautiful views of the mountains and trees covered in snow with the bit if blue water from the creek would make for a gorgeous print. Well done Matthew!!

[@MsSoozy]

The mountains are calling and I must answer! I love that saying. Breathtakingly beautiful Matthew. Truly. 🏴‍☠️🍀🤗

[@tracymac1111]

Matthew……! This episode is a work of art. You are so clever. I’m just going to concur with all the amazing comments here, they echo my thoughts and feelings about this masterpiece of short film making, completely. QUALITY CONTENT.

[@janet1744]

Canada has so much beautiful open country. Spacious.

[@donnablankenship726]

Don't mind me...I'm just sitting in my living room (In Oklahoma) enjoying Matthew showing me the beautiful views and breath taking water attributes of Canada. ☺🤩🥰 Thank you Matthew!

[@thepandainterviews475]

Add an interior cargo net to store some essential extras. I do that in my Subie and it’s helpful. Another thing is an add on to the back of the seats for hand warmers, gloves, toque, wipes etc. Another way to keep those things you’re always looking for but never have. LOL

[@ritaharvey3117]

Oh my gosh I LOVE LOVE LOVE your videos. The scenery is beautiful. You do an amazing job. You are living the life I want. Every day is an adventure. THANK YOU so much for sharing your life. You are awesome, genuine, funny and such a great dad to your little girl and your adorable cat. 😊 I look forward to your videos. Stay safe out there.

[@stacynoble3909]

Radium is beautiful in the winter Perfect hot spring weather

[@titanican2731]

Thanks for taking us along! Absolutely beautiful 🥶 you are talented

[@scubaval08]

Stunning footage! I was telling my daughter last week how much I enjoy the Canadian KZbin vanlifers but also anyone adventuring in cold snowy weather even though (punchline incoming) I detest being in it myself! You & “Living The Van Life” are my favorites.

[@kimbrueck7811]

What an absolute gorgeous vlog! You capture the beauty of your homeland so incredibly well! Your changing room was quite the humorous mini adventure. Keep it up Matthew, you are killing it in 2024!! ❤❤

[@fayepotts3279]

If it weren’t for you taking that winter walk, we would have missed the stunning scenery 😮. It was absolutely beautiful. Thank you so much! It was well worth the price of your long underwear.☺️

[@tamo9520]

Radium Hot Springs. Quite the famous and extremely relaxing and enjoyable place!

[@canadiannat8960]

🍀🌼🍀🌼🍀 What a wonderful me-time mini-vacay!

[@Jaime-hi9vk]

Hi Matt. I live in the UK. I love how you show everyday life in Canada. I didn’t realise how truly beautiful Canada is. One day I hope to visit there, but until then I am so enjoying your presentations and content. ❤️

[@donnamacleod2947]

13:43 Quality content, Matthew! Thank you! Keep smiling!

[@lindabonnieul]

wow Matt this absolutely breathtaking scenery thank you

[@donnamoore7554]

Okay. I had to jump back in. Back in the early 70s I made the drive across Canada. ( yes you were just a twinkle in your daddy’s eyes) ( and yes I’m old lol) The first time I traveled with you though, you took the Trans Canada and I recognized nothing. It wasn’t until today’s video that I realized it was Highway 93 we took. Today was purely nostalgic. How beautiful , humbling, and awesome that drive is. Thanks for the flashbacks. Sigh!!! Life is an amazing journey, physically, mentally, spiritually, and psychologically. Wow. Just Wow!!! Thank you again Matthew. May the wind be always at your back, blowing into the pirate sails of your life. ❤

[@aaaxthelm]

Either I’m in a super good mood or that video was the greatest yet. Gorgeous drive and wonderful music. Thank you.

[@rollinsteady4949]

Wow! Thank you so much for going through the Mr Bean wardrobe change and the hike to show those truly breathtaking views. Once again I felt wisked away to the landscape I can only dream of. You don't know how much your videos mean to me.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you very much for watching

[@laurastewart2418]

That drive was epic!😊

[@trevorfletcher6791]

Pretty funny today, thanks for the laughs Matt

[@rockysmumakagma]

Haha omg, I couldn’t help but laugh during your changing scene 😂! Besides that, what fantastic videography you took at marble canyon, it was quite breathtaking ❤ Never been along that route, thanks for taking us along, look forward to the rest of your mini me time! Warm hugs for you all in Calgary ❤

[@donnamoore7554]

Who knew. Idiot proof door locks. Yay Jeep. Beautiful trip so far Matthew. Thank you yet again. Be safe. Enjoy. And we will also enjoy the ride and beautiful topography ❤

[@fran2688]

That view was ridiculously insane. It would probably feel like the end of the world if I experience that view. That was magical! 😁

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you for watching!

[@upstatechillin]

MAJESTIC mountains, stunning Marble Canyon and your crack and chip look completey gone! Thank you for filming your journey. I'd never see these gorgeous sceneries otherwise!

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you for watching, I’m very happy you enjoy the videos!

[@bonniejackson1321]

World class drive, fun banter, missed Penny, Amber and Brooklyn but still enjoyed the different journey. Yay

[@rosesevers5181]

Excellent vlog Matthew..stunning scenery and funny watching you trying to get changed … 😂

[@ripley8aliensmom72]

So beautiful it looks like a fairytale ❤

[@terryshaw3493]

Hi Matthew, was not able to catch this episode last evening. So happy I am getting up to speed tonight. Oh wow, the mountain views with the snow is beautiful! Thank you for sharing this beauty! The evening drive was magical. Sweet little motel you booked there. Enjoy your dinner.

[@FLR1131]

Nice video Matthew. Beautiful drive. Thanks for taking us along.

[@VanlifePLUS]

I appreciate that, thank you for watching

[@peggybaker69]

What a beautiful drive, thanks for showing us all the beautiful country there. Looks like it will be a nice drive this way. Looking forward to seeing more.

[@MAZIad]

Hey, hope you're keeping warm Matt with the extreme cold temperatures now.

[@ricebike]

Thanks for another vlog of your commute back and forth the mountain routes 😅 Those roads when shiny scares me; black ice as dusk rolls in and temps drop😢

[@Yahoo12]

The music always sets the mood of the video. Take us on the adventure Matthew. 👍🏼

[@regbillings4955]

Hi Matthew, i always look so forward to watching your VanLife/Jeep adventures. Your videos are always so much fun to watch, thank you so much, i hope your having a blessed day, shine bright :)

[@WendyCooley]

So beautiful! Thank you for taking us along once again. When you said -5 was not that cold LOL. Here in Oregon we freak out when it gets that cold.

[@beatingbacktime1942]

Ha Ha how entertaining. Putting on long John’s in a backseat you are so funny ! Such beautiful scenery definitely in my bucket list

[@marciapeterson4404]

Loved the drive with you today! Beautiful country!

[@UrdnotChuckles]

Gotta love all the cozy family owned hotels and such you can find all over BC. That place reminds me of a few I've stayed in before over on the island, or further north in the kootenays.

[@joanneturner4674]

Awesome video as always The drone shots were absolutely fabulous 😊

[@godevarcooper9366]

New year New adventures Matthew❤❤❤ just keep doing what you do❤

[@cathymc8365]

Lots of great scenery and drone footage! It's nice to be able to take the long way home! Safe travels.

[@trishat5361]

Wow, Matthew 😳. That was some incredible scenery/ drone shots ❤. Thank you for bringing us along and producing “quality content”. Ps I enjoy it all

[@kaytoka717]

Love your videos, excellent content and your editing is excellent. Loved how you synched the road shots with the music. Well done. You have a lot of skills and of course, awesome background and beautiful scenery to work with. 😊❤

[@garymcgee1874]

The large crow is a raven see Edgar Allen Poe. Lived in the Cascade mountains of Oregon near Mount Hood lots of ravens very smart bird. Great job Matt your vlogs are amazing!!

[@triciaholliday4243]

Thank you for taking me on this beautiful drive. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and hope to one day see it in my own van. BTW, I'm a 71 YOF way down in Georgia. We may beat your temp this week with a low of 16, or maybe 18 F. Doesn't matter which, they are both too cold. And we don't have that beautiful scenery.

[@krystal85566]

Mathew i really enjoy your videos i live through your eyes i love the scenery up there its so beautiful. Your s9 funny great sense of humor maybe one day i will come up there from California USA. Penny is so adorable your very smart my daughter saw your daughter o. Your vlog she asked me who she is and i told her she is your daughter. Again thank you keep up the good work.

[@pdodwell1575]

Absolutely stunning scenery! Fantastic wintry shots! Great camera work! But for me, too much driving and too cold. You’re a better man than I, Gunga Din! 😊

[@katrinahanko1638]

Stunning! Haha changing in the car! Always fun. 😅

[@nancyschad2969]

Stunning winter views! I'll have to add visiting Canada to my travel bucket list although probably in warmer weather.

[@dallaslemieux4161]

Top notch Matthew 👍 beautiful scenery, giggles and all… 😆🙏🥰❄️☃️

[@Ladythyme]

Matthew you’ve done a Wonderful job putting this together… I waited to watch so I could savor this all in one viewing….it was definitely worth the wait! ❤… you’re changing scene reminds me of changing in my early years in our cars at the ski resorts….before and after! I’m very familiar with the struggle 😂😂😂😂 Such a fun excursion!

[@dkksm60]

Having back pain myself I know what a chore it is just putting socks on so bravo for getting changed in the back of Grace, take it steady fella 👍

[@inthecountrynotinthecountry]

French toast cereal?? That is amazing! I can only dream of such cereal diversity in the U.K. 😢

[@christiebolden2288]

Yay!!! I never get in the comments this early!!! I love your channel!! I found it a few months ago and have been binge watching all the older videos to catch up!! You have truly inspired me to want to do this even more than before. Thank you for sharing your life with us! All of it, the good, the bad and the ugly!! God Bless you, Brooklyn, Penny, Grace, Lucky, Lindsey, Sadie, Amber and all your family!!!!

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you Christie! I’m very glad you’re enjoying the content and even watching the older videos! That means a lot to me 😊

[@Ny_kellz]

Hey Matt I wanted to say thank you for this great video it brought back alot of memories of me and my mother who passed away a year ago we took the same route you are this made my year sir thank you stay warm and safe

[@janet1744]

I love how building a road- some times they cut a way through a hill and you can drive between the steep sides. Same in USA-- Georgia, Tennissee, Kentucky.

[@denisegardner8194]

First and foremost, love your channel. ❤❤❤ I just wanted to say thank you. For many reasons, whether it be age, medical issues, or fate has taken different roads, we are not able to travel and see many of the sights this beautiful world of ours has to offer. Finding your channel has enriched my life. Your honesty in allowing us to live vicariously through your channel enriches my life by allowing me to visit places I am unable to do physically. Your so honest with your emotions touches me deeply. Your zest for life makes me laugh at your crazy sense of humor and cry when you share deeply personal parts of yourself. I know you miss your daughter when you are apart. Please knoww that I think you are a great dad, and a wonderful son. I found your channel quite by accident, but keep returning because you quite simply make my day. Thank you Matthew. Well wishes to you, your daughter and the rest of your family. Sorry for the length, but wanted you to know your worth. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@rachadventuresinliv]

💯 💞

[@shawnoutcelt]

Well said! He is my favorite on KZbin!

[@Yahoo12]

Agree. I find myself watching re runs of Matthew’s videos. Quality content.

[@sheilacaine]

Well that was a beautiful adventure Matthew. Thank you very much. ❤

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you for watching Sheila!

[@sheilacaine]

@@VanlifePLUS welcome

[@janet1744]

Changing in jeep was so funny.😂

[@amydavis955]

Matt thank you for your adventures today. It was so fun watching nice view the park really nice the lounge that you’re staying not bad take care and be safe till the next video.❤❤❤

[@dawnmarazzi8283]

Simply lovely! I had to laugh when you were trying to change!!! The scenery was amazing too! The colour of the water and the majestic mountains were a delight to watch!

[@Pammellam]

I’m always happy to see your honestly truly cheerful happy smile!

[@barbaratudor8502]

Thanks for all the effort you put into filming your vlogs - I really enjoy the long drives showcasing the breath-taking Canadian wilderness!

[@Trace-kf2ly]

Thank you for bringing back fond memories of my Dad at the wheel driving through these mountains. Our favorite was Yoho national park 😍 He’d be glad to see you carrying on a pretty great thing ..to instill a sense of adventure in your daughter ( I know she’s not there right now but in general..) ❤ keep on keepin on !

[@DrKerr..]

Thanks for sharing your memory. The good old days where a lot of us wish we. Could go back to. U have yourself a wonderful day.

[@Diana-ex5ig]

Love watching your videos, kept checking for a new one since this afternoon and decided to subscribe. Crazy thought here, have you ever considered covering Grace's windshield when being pulled behind Lucky? I would think Lucky sometimes throws stones at Grace out of anger for having to pull her around all the time.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Welcome to the channel and thank you for subscribing! Actually Lucky doesn’t toss to much and even when she does Grace is so close it would be the grill that would take most of it. Those cracks and chips I have are from when I drive Grace - and Jeeps are HORRIBLE for this

[@marywhite4390]

That was fun, Matt!

[@micheleredtfeldt678]

Love the travel change as well as the hike! The scenery was wonderful! Your change of wardrobe scene was hilarious!!

[@teresacollinspassionatelynuts]

BEAUTIFUL

[@alkuerbis5712]

Hey Matt, thanks for that. I worked up in radium there many years ago I worked on a few homes and condo projects. Thanks for the memories going to marble Canyon. Nice little spot and not to mention you know looks like the same hotel. I stayed in their way back when anyways thanks have a good weekend

[@alkuerbis5712]

Thank you again for replying back give me a thumbs up was good

[@judymoyer3093]

Thank Matthew for sharing your life with us. It was a beautiful drive and an interesting adventure God Bless you and yours

[@debbiehards852]

Thank you for the ride along and the beautiful scenery on that hike. Awesome. I found myself looking for Penny on your bed in the room. Was missing her.🙂❤️

[@patriciac5214]

Exceptional cinematography! Thank you.

[@VaguelyMeandering]

I was so freaked out that you were driving with your spikes on. I mean, I should know that you wouldn't do something so silly...but, um, well, ya. Hwy 93 comes out at Cranbrook, you have to go out to Hwy 3 to get to Fernie. But that's okay too. I enjoyed your foray into Radium, I've not (yet) been there. Your stream of conscious conversation in the grocery store, "What will most piss people off" made me laugh. And with that, I'm caught up again. Yay! Thank you, as always, for brining us along. Your videos are a highlight in my day. Looking forward to the next one.

[@patlodge8420]

Matthew that was beautiful Canada 🇨🇦 is stunning we haven't got snow yet in the UK probably next week ❤

[@leigh1215]

The views are breathtaking. Thank you for sharing

[@VanlifePLUS]

It’s an amazing drive! Thank you for watching

[@lesliepolicastro8368]

How blessed you are to live in such a stunning part of the world. Stay safe dear one ♥️❄️🚐♥️

[@VanlifePLUS]

I sure am - lots of beautiful places to see in such a small space. Can’t wait to see the rest of this country someday

[@gillianb_aus]

Loved the video, as always.

[@JoeZyzyx]

You have a heated jacket. Got wife one for Christmas, and she loves it, especially since it's been between 12-27F here for days in Maryland.

[@zekecanada5244]

I must admit, you are entertaining 😂😂 Way better than anything on cable..

[@VanlifePLUS]

Haha well then! That’s a very nice compliment, thank you

[@MyKey1642]

Tanks for stopping and doing all that drone work. Very nice.

[@lindabloomfield4879]

Whole heartedly agree beautiful shots and following you about like a stalker lol I'm just a spring chicken at 70 can't walk about my h so get a lot of fun and enjoyment from your vlogs missed Penny she's a real cutie so affectionate.

[@authordanigray]

hubby and I drove that route because of a nasty accident shutting down the main highway, it really is a beautiful drive. What I wish is my back could ride that rollercoaster in Revelstoke. That thing looks like fun!!

[@cjmedia1725]

Matthew love your content friend. You’re making me want to move to Canada 🇨🇦 😮

[@capaddler]

I love the 93 route, winter and summer. Stunning scenery. So many options for beautiful and exciting rivers to paddle 🛶. 🍀💚🍀😅

[@kimlatham3809]

You remind me of Jim Carey, when he's in character . Enjoy your self, and your content😊 Penny is the best😊

[@jacquieharrington7200]

Oh, WOW; the scenery and the views are majestic. You should create a coffeetable book with your photography. I am tempted to capture a couple shots just for my board. Thanks again for sharing. Be safe. Be blessed.

[@VanlifePLUS]

Sometimes I think the same thing in the sense of still photography. I used to love that hobby, but I don’t have any decent cameras for that right now - nor the time. Maybe one day - for now, screenshot away!

[@taceyjohnson1122]

My favourite route to Cowtown! In the winter I've only ever stopped to use the outhouses though. I'm clearly missing out on some stunning scenery! Those drone shots blew me away!!

[@Terri_Swift]

aw, geez. Salty nuts. I have no filters, Matthew!

[@lyndiebright8508]

I am reading all the comments and replies and it is fun! Glad to see new roads and trails. The Canadian way to dress is layers and I do not worry about fashion!

[@VanlifePLUS]

As long as you’re comfortable that’s all that matters!

[@alvinmousseau1100]

Awesome video

[@JessicaFerri-um4hf]

Canada is stunningly beautiful ! 'Rogers Pass' mountains were amazing, and this place, 'Marble Creek' is so beautiful.

[@VanlifePLUS]

There are lots of incredible places, that’s for sure! Thank you for watching

[@nannajules288]

Oh my!! You've just fed my desire to get over there by 1000%, so so different to Queensland Australia.

[@shawnoutcelt]

It's been years since I've done the back seat dance...👀🤣🤣 lol

[@carolynrivera9745]

👋 Matthew Absolutely gorgeous video 📹 Thanks for sharing your journey with us ❤. Can't wait until your next one....❤

[@VanlifePLUS]

Thank you for watching Carolyn!

[@phosawelonewolf2886]

Love the beautiful views from the walk. Very nice.

[@VanlifePLUS]

It’s beautiful country for sure

[@skistrycharski6999]

🍀In Ak. They rig a mesh screen on the bumper raised to stop rocks from hitting the windows. Of the towing car 🤷🏼