Van Life - Woman Living in a Van for 3 Years to Save Money & Travel the World

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  • Опубліковано 21 вер 2024
  • L.J. has been living in her vintage 1977 GMC Vandura camper van conversion for 3 years while working a 9-5 job in HR. She bought the van for just $500 and enjoys the van life because it allows her to save money and live on a budget, but mostly she loves the freedom of parking wherever she wants, and of being able to travel on weekends.
    She's recently quit her job and is planning to travel for a year in the van, and overseas to the Philippines and Indonesia.
    We love how simple L.J.'s van is - no power, no heat, just the basics like a bed, a swivel seat, a cooler, and some books. She makes the lifestyle look easy although she does splurge during a couple of the coldest winter months to sublet an apartment.
    Thanks for watching!
    Mat & Danielle
    PS thank you to all of our Patrons who support us so generously and a very special thank you to our backbone supporters: The Burgess Family.
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    VIDEO CREDITS
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    Music & Song Credits:
    All music in this video was composed, performed, and recorded by Mat of Exploring Alternatives.
    Editing Credits:
    Mat and Danielle of Exploring Alternatives
    Filming Credits:
    Mat of Exploring Alternatives

КОМЕНТАРІ • 1,9 тис.

  • @ambycakes
    @ambycakes 7 років тому +471

    I'm honestly glad more people are starting to find alternative ways to living and not just settling for having insane amount of bills because we're told we should

    • @claudiaholmes9086
      @claudiaholmes9086 5 років тому +28

      I just bought a campervan and am parked at a friends house. Just plugged the power cord right now. Wanna switch to composting toilet and 600 watts of solar. I'm transitioning to full time on the road!

    • @samfdsd2134
      @samfdsd2134 5 років тому +6

      couldn't agree more

    • @Julie-lh5jb
      @Julie-lh5jb 4 роки тому +2

      Yes!!!! 😁

    • @nomadillustratorvlogs4710
      @nomadillustratorvlogs4710 2 роки тому

      Agree

    • @josephloughrey3434
      @josephloughrey3434 8 місяців тому

      Your right

  • @crystalace22
    @crystalace22 4 роки тому +82

    Happiness is living your personal dream
    Not fulfilling the expectations of others.
    ..this seems so relaxing and stress free

  • @garym9356
    @garym9356 7 років тому +797

    I see nothing wrong with this lifestyle...shes not hurting anyone and she works and she is mortgage free...and if she is happy that's all that matters....thumbs up!

    • @ExploringAlternatives
      @ExploringAlternatives  7 років тому +38

      Thanks so much for the positive vibes Gary :) :)

    • @sheila96ful
      @sheila96ful 7 років тому +17

      I think it awesome , love the arrangement so organize, who cares what people think, all it matters your happy

    • @perennialistperspective
      @perennialistperspective 5 років тому +3

      have you ever had a van dweller or RV dweller park directly in front of your house for long periods of time? its legal so they do it, but its annoying and rude. and shanty towns parked on your street aren't good for real estate value

    • @debbiepotter6413
      @debbiepotter6413 5 років тому +13

      I get what your saying. I doubt this lady would do that. Most decent van dwellers do stay in a place that long. They avoid the residential streets for the most part. Or just stay a night.

    • @fretwireonfire
      @fretwireonfire 5 років тому +18

      @@perennialistperspective Real estate value? Sorry for the skewed priorities.

  • @rickynewman4393
    @rickynewman4393 6 років тому +169

    takes courage to live the van life, she deserves respect, FREEDOM!

  • @BlaneysChannel
    @BlaneysChannel 7 років тому +361

    Thumbs up to living in a $500.00 home on wheels. Can't beat that.👍

    • @TicklerDude
      @TicklerDude 7 років тому +15

      Solo Roamin' Video I live in a tent that I bought for $40. Ha ha, I beat it.

    • @normalguy7898
      @normalguy7898 7 років тому +1

      Yuk.

    • @pogeybait5289
      @pogeybait5289 7 років тому +8

      AK 49er how many miles per gallon do you get in that tent??? lol!!!

    • @chandlerdodson4217
      @chandlerdodson4217 7 років тому +1

      Solo Roamin' Video THAT'S A STEAL

    • @far574
      @far574 7 років тому +1

      +Normal Guy 2 year old. Mental case.

  • @SloanZurnToto
    @SloanZurnToto 6 років тому +198

    I admire and respect your choice to live in a van.
    Most people live their lives like a repetitive computer program, doing the same things every day, get up, eat breakfast, drive to work, spend 8 hours as a slave to make enough money to pay the bills, mortgage etc., drive home from work in traffic, get all stressed out, get home, make dinner, watch tv, go to bed.....repeat.
    A very sad existence.
    You are living a free life, a minimalist life, a simple life is the best way to live.
    Bravo.

    • @joshsindle7282
      @joshsindle7282 5 років тому +1

      Doug Maverick sad but so true. Couldnt have said it better myself

    • @thehollyannrose
      @thehollyannrose 5 років тому +7

      bill whatman we could change the way the economy works, so people could get by working less, and we could have more doctors and firefighters, etc. So we aren't so burned out all the time. If that makes sense. The work week should be less than what it is. If you're getting the standard amount of sleep, you're spending over a third of your awake time just at work (if you're doing 40 hours)... Plus traffic and stuff... We spend so much time working a job we aren't loving and passionate about, for a retirement we possibly can't have (cuz not everyone lives to 65 or things happen, and you still have to work)

    • @AJ-hz3tx
      @AJ-hz3tx 5 років тому +1

      Many people work in the public service sector. Social workers, police, teachers etc. Just because someone works a "9-5" doesn't make them a slave. I enjoy my job and my life. I love the outdoors, have other hobbies and read 100 books a year as well but my calling is serving others.

    • @kimcase9
      @kimcase9 5 років тому +8

      @Christina Reynolds ouch... you sound bitter girl... sending you good energy,,,

    • @juliusreed5273
      @juliusreed5273 5 років тому

      That's my next move boss you are 100 percent right I'm traveling living in my van or car

  • @PeasLovePineapples
    @PeasLovePineapples 6 років тому +11

    Wow I am going through the same transition, I just bought a van for $275 and plan to convert it and live in it part time for a year or two traveling the summer months and every weekend. While I work my 9-5. If all goes well I want to eventually live in it full time. Everything she said is exactly how I feel and I went through something similar when I was 15. Love her story 💕💚

  • @TrustingYourProcess
    @TrustingYourProcess 5 років тому +7

    I think I have watched this video a hundred times because it gives me the confidence that this lifestyle is doable. I am moving into my van like her and keeping a day job. It feels a little strange doing this lifestyle but it calls me. A little nervous about what others will think but still moving forward.

  • @mikedempsey7987
    @mikedempsey7987 7 років тому +61

    This women is smart. The power of time off is a life changer. I have worked a number of 5 year stints as a college prof & have taken 1-2 years off inbetween to travel. 42 countries so far. I got lucky & got a teaching position In London for a university in the USA at athier London campus & taught for 3 years,,,EVERY weekend I took a trip around Europe.Russia, and Ukraine were my favs. I am presently in the process of a van build. Now that I am retired I want to experience western USA for a few years. Living in an RV is liberating. Good luck to you young lady! ;-)

    • @DividendReaper
      @DividendReaper 7 років тому +2

      Good on you! That's awesome, Mike. Wish I could convince my wife to let us do the same but she loves her stuff... we'll see how I wear her down over the years though :)

    • @SupernaturalBeingsofEarth
      @SupernaturalBeingsofEarth 7 років тому +2

      Mike Dempsey ** Come North over the border, it's worth it...

    • @tonyinfinity
      @tonyinfinity 7 років тому +1

      You don't write like a college Professor

  • @Steven-rp8zo
    @Steven-rp8zo 5 років тому +84

    I love this girl and her free spirit but I really hope she is safe and careful! Victoria BC seems reasonably safe for the most part. There are parts of California and BC Mexico where you DO NOT want to go out camping like this by yourself. Be free and have fun but NEVER be naive. It is a jungle out there folks, act accordingly!

  • @julzmio
    @julzmio 7 років тому +4

    Love the fact that she does both...9/5 job but also the van life! I wish there were community out there of people that live this life style. Like small area like fields where u can park and live just like a community. Then u move again to join an other one and so on... how cool!

  • @vadiveeswarannadarajan8101
    @vadiveeswarannadarajan8101 6 років тому +2

    Working as an HR and leading a van lifestyle is really inspirational. She taught me live as you like

  • @gene8873
    @gene8873 7 років тому +471

    It's ok to live a life others don't understand --- unknown

  • @susannichols4372
    @susannichols4372 6 років тому +59

    I really liked the way this was filmed. Excellent interview and to be able to see natural living in the van rather than a tour. Not to knock the tours though, I like those too, just this was really awesome.

  • @NoProGoPronto
    @NoProGoPronto 7 років тому +388

    She got the best deal in the world on that van. It's beautiful and very cozy. Way to go L.J.! You're living an awesome life. 👍🏽😃

    • @ceil5001
      @ceil5001 7 років тому +4

      NoProGoPronto I agree. Best "living in a van" channel, too. She really "gets" it. Most importantly, she's enjoying her life.

    • @adellzachary3171
      @adellzachary3171 6 років тому +3

      NoProGoPronto Cool... I like it! They seem so free! God bless them!

    • @harrietvales228
      @harrietvales228 6 років тому

      NoProGoPronto m

    • @KeithsReviews
      @KeithsReviews 6 років тому

      3:38 It's a rust bucket. Wouldn't pass inspection in probably 45 states in the U.S. And Canada has stricter inspection laws.

    • @paccarcrap
      @paccarcrap 6 років тому

      Rod shes from BC

  • @theWZZA
    @theWZZA 5 років тому +4

    I love her outlook on life. She might not have any carpentry skills, but she makes it work, and doesn't stress about it. It sounds like she takes things as they come and lives in the moment.

  • @se3939
    @se3939 7 років тому +25

    This is YOUR life, live it the way you want too!

  • @RobertLinthicum
    @RobertLinthicum 5 років тому +6

    I love everything about this. I also respect that you have done so well with this van for the money. These posh van conversions one sees on UA-cam are one thing, creativity and making due are another.

  • @dopkasa.1171
    @dopkasa.1171 7 років тому +70

    Thanks for another great vid, EA. Though this one still left me with a lot of questions:
    1. Did van life negatively impact her job? Is this something she shared with her coworkers
    and superiors?
    2. Did she have enough clothes in the van to come to work presentable and professionally dressed?
    3. Did she encounter any obstacles in finding somewhere to park? Is she on public lands?
    4. Did/Does she have any concerns about her safety where she is located?
    5. How does she shower/use the bathroom? Gym? Gas station? Makeshift waste collector in the van?
    6. The van as no power and she only has a cooler for refrigeration. How does she charge her electronics? How does being restricted to a cooler affect what she buys for food and her diet?
    If you have answers to these questions or could pass them along to L.J., I would really appreciate a response. Seriously, considering van life and tiny homes, so it would be a great help.

    • @whiteeaglewarrior
      @whiteeaglewarrior 7 років тому +16

      You know, I had the same questions, but I found that I already knew the answers and solutions...I just used my own thought process. Its that which is needed in living like this.
      If you havent got that then there are loads of youtube vids going into those very questions, you just have to research it yourself :)
      Trust me, you will have a lot of answers when you simply start doing it for yourself. Try it, it is empowering to know you made it on your own. When I saw my solutions as viable from other van dwellers on here, I was chuffed, I knew I have what it takes to make it and to make it well living free.

    • @angelfirelite
      @angelfirelite 6 років тому +2

      Dopkas A. ..... It seems very lonely if you should ask me! Almost like she is homeless and living in this old rusty Van, ehhhh!

    • @NikkiJabs
      @NikkiJabs 6 років тому +32

      angelfirelite It’s only lonely for extroverts. I’m an introvert and I would be extremely content with this life. :)

    • @dabprod
      @dabprod 6 років тому +10

      Dopkas A.......I had a very good friend that lived like this for over 25 years. Lived in northern PA in the summer and FL or AZ in the winter months. I never heard him complain and he was the most laid-back dude I ever knew. He NEVER worried about anything even though he was broke most of the time. He died a couple of years ago at 75. I miss my friend. But he was content.

    • @cclev1967
      @cclev1967 6 років тому +7

      I live full time in my van. I work full time as a carpenter during the summer, and solar installer during the winter. My van is set up with solar for power. And I have a refrigerator. For showering I have a portable hot water on demand hot water heater. It's mounted to a back door. I open them and hang a curtian and shower. I mostly stay on public lands when I travel.
      I also have a gym membership to planet fitness. I can work out and use their showers. Using the bathroom I either use public, at work or I hava a portable toilet.
      I carry all the tools I need to do both my jobs, if your van is well thought for your needs. And get creative with the space. You'll be surprised what you can fit.
      I follow the weather and the mild temps. Heat and air conditioning are really needed.
      I do get lonely when. I travel alone. But the van community is so large in western half of the U.S. you can always find a friend. I have met friends that we caravan together as a group for a month. Then when one of needs to recharge alone. It's no big deal. Everyone gets it.
      I have a rule for what I have I'm my van. If it doesn't have a dual purpose. It's doesn't need to be there.

  • @loreneknight9755
    @loreneknight9755 5 років тому +1

    Wow...what you have discovered in your young life is HUGE! You are brave, free, joyful & an adventurer!!! What more could we ever aspire to? I admire YOU.

  • @jacklowe3788
    @jacklowe3788 7 років тому +66

    This is Great - But a word of advice, invest in some good quality tires - These tires (at least from what vid shows) are in bad shape & your life is riding on them - Also these early type GM vans are easy fixes as parts are still plenty avail. & most have the tried & proven pretty much bomb proof 350ci / 5.7L engine w/ good maintance will last almost indefnite as long as their used regular - Hope you dont mind the advice - You seem like a nice young Lady who is living well - Good Luck...

    • @RoxyAKADrakesWife
      @RoxyAKADrakesWife 7 років тому +2

      Jack Lowe she said she wanted to sell it so my guess is she probably won't have it long enough to care

    • @goodliving2171
      @goodliving2171 6 років тому +4

      Roxy AKA Drakes Wife
      She will probably have the van longer than anticipated because though she brought it up, she obviously thinks a lot of it. It would be nice if she could store it somewhere safely and free while she travels the world. This way she would have her home to come back to. It is very nice, what she has done with it.

    • @goodliving2171
      @goodliving2171 6 років тому +2

      Roxy AKA Drakes Wife
      In the description, it is stated, she quit her job and plans to travel a year in the van. She then plans to go to Asia and Polynesia.

  • @LEORedSun
    @LEORedSun 6 років тому +2

    It goes to show you you don't need an expensive van to be nice. I like how she made this van just look so comfortable to live in.

  • @Janetkeijser
    @Janetkeijser 7 років тому +112

    Had a 1979 Ford Econoline van that I did epic, very remote, X-treme camping excursions in. That van went at least 500,000 miles. I took it up the Oregon Coast to Vancouver Island, then north and across to Uculet onto un-mapped logging roads near Kennedy Lake/Pacific Ocean. Didn't see a single, solitary person for a week. Had to drop bread crumbs to find my way out. There were bears roaring and wolfs trotting around. That van never let me down. Throw a solar panel on the roof and painted a plastic water container black with shower fittings on it and it was the most amazing experience of my life. The Zen of that kind of peace and tranquility never leaves you. This is the way to experience nature. Just me and my dog. (and a shot gun, cuz weird people scare me- ha ha)

    • @senoracheapee1864
      @senoracheapee1864 5 років тому

      Janet Keijser glad you had a gun! Traveling alone as a woman

  • @JerryBrownTravels
    @JerryBrownTravels 6 років тому +6

    Great video and thank you for encouraging my wife and myself to take it to the next level in life, to take the risk and commit to the adventure. I am 72 years old my wife is 65 years old and your videos are
    Inspiration for us to continue an adventurous lifestyle. We've traveled to 35 countries and by seeing how you take on the challenges has given us the courage to do things that we have not felt comfortable doing. The bottom line we are getting out of the comfort zone. What advice would you give us? You're doing it and thank you for what you're doing it is appreciated all.Jerry & Lori

  • @sc1212able
    @sc1212able 7 років тому +22

    Nice interview, love what she has done with the layout, she is a very cool chick, smart, a minimalist, and incredibly gorgeous, wonder if she would like to join the sailing community, would love to bring her on board for are next adventure, Key West to St. Croix and then south to all the Caribbean islands.

    • @kcherre2164
      @kcherre2164 7 років тому +1

      sc1212able if I would have the Money I would Go...

    • @tranquility9325
      @tranquility9325 7 років тому +2

      sc1212able sounds amazing

  • @jencameron8124
    @jencameron8124 5 років тому +9

    I really like her outlook on life - she's got a great work/life balance going and she's smart to make her employment ultimately work for her in the long run so she can ultimately live as she chooses!👍

  • @chunkeeone8408
    @chunkeeone8408 7 років тому +35

    Brilliant! I can dig what she is saying to...
    A lot of people try to wait until they are much older to retire and travel and then they don't ever make it to the fun part of life, Or they do and they are too worn out to enjoy it. It's really sad if you think about it. I think it'd be really interesting to know this lady personally.

    • @gainesb.1046
      @gainesb.1046 5 років тому

      @Bac si Gà bé I believe it's called shipping. There are several people on UA-cam that do that exact thing. Of course those vans don't float you silly!

    • @bobbymorrison1483
      @bobbymorrison1483 5 років тому

      Gaines B. J

    • @miriamanderson6146
      @miriamanderson6146 2 роки тому

      Or save a lot of money just to pay a nursing home. Very sad.

  • @JonathanDavidLife
    @JonathanDavidLife 6 років тому +1

    Man, she is the most level headed van person ever. And totally stunning.

  • @bobthebob8817
    @bobthebob8817 7 років тому +10

    I love the way you look at breaking life, living and working situations up in to segments. Good luck to you, wish I was that brave.

  • @barbaraaspengen9810
    @barbaraaspengen9810 7 років тому +139

    You are enjoying your life thats GREAT you go Girl keep on having FUN when you get old you will have lots of nice memories for yourself

    • @Carambasjokk
      @Carambasjokk 6 років тому

      ....because memories are the only she will have when she gets old. No kids. No grandchildren. No one. Just sitting there alone and lonely, surrounded and "cared" for by sp*cs, g00ks, and nugz, who hate you. If your parents and her parents, had lived the way she does, you and her had never been born. Thougth about that...?

    • @ariesred777
      @ariesred777 6 років тому +6

      Some people live this way knowing how the end might play out.Many are loners from birth which doesn't mean they don't like company.They possibly are able to enjoy their own which most people can't do.

    • @paulsuprono7225
      @paulsuprono7225 5 років тому

      @@Carambasjokk OMG . . . not a valued option. We'all need each other . . . can't live . . . alone !

    • @lisawallace921
      @lisawallace921 4 роки тому +1

      If you love it that's all that matter awesome freedom

  • @legaleagleandpaws8198
    @legaleagleandpaws8198 7 років тому +19

    For a youngster, you have become acutely aware of the relatively short time we have in life and how best to spend it to actually grow your soul:) The neah sayers and majority of people have their own media driven brainwashed thinking about how to spend (pun intended) their relatively short time and life. Hopefully they will get it eventually or not:) Glad you did at such a young age!
    One of your prior posters summed up the fork in the path of life you discuss. I have changed some of it to illustrate the choice:
    The desire to have a strong professional career, earn money and work hard are in conflict with the desire to live a minimalist life. Career types have debt, mortgages and lots of possessions...hence the need to work so much more to pay for their stuff they really don't need and which eventually no one really wants.
    Others like the relaxed, more natural, spiritual, laid back, no hurry up and rush life with minimal possessions (what you actually need to live comfortably) and a freed up schedule to actually live your life outside of the preordained box, fish bowl or hamster cage, whatever term you prefer.
    Finally, your "home" looks absolutely awesome. You might want to consider some kind of interior design work which you could do while on the road:) Good luck out there:)

  • @ginnylorenz5265
    @ginnylorenz5265 6 років тому +1

    Dear L.J., How wonderful to see someone who is creating the life she wants and needs to live. You are a lovely inspiration. Thank you for sharing with us. Love from San Diego, CA.

  • @raquelbarnes6075
    @raquelbarnes6075 7 років тому +5

    I really enjoyed this women's message. I love all you guys videos but her message really resonates with me. Thank you for sharing! Challenging the idea of working continuously and then retirement. This is important! This is a lifestyle I would like to explore further. I do see myself working more of a 9 to 5 even though I have a heart for adventure! Goal: find the best of both worlds!

  • @northernknight7787
    @northernknight7787 5 років тому +45

    That van looks dope af. Honestly I wouldn’t mind living like that.

    • @iamgeorge376
      @iamgeorge376 4 роки тому

      Bernie supporter I'll bet

    • @hershe7310
      @hershe7310 3 роки тому

      @@aliceshaw8265 what a gym shoe you must be.

  • @Angora573
    @Angora573 7 років тому +15

    Love her life philosophy. Nothing compares to seeing the world, travel is everything imo and she is doing life right x

  • @themask706
    @themask706 5 років тому +5

    Well done sweat heart. Ive been full time for twelve years in a Hiace camper. I intend to live out my life this way. Retired at 46 after selling that over size shelter that you work most of your best years to buy "a dream " Be safe and well.

    • @aaronmatzkin7966
      @aaronmatzkin7966 3 роки тому

      If most people didn’t buy that oversized shelter that they work most of their best years to buy, they wouldn't have the money to live out their life that way.

  • @charlieretro
    @charlieretro 7 років тому +9

    I love this old van !! Glad to see old retro vans still being used.

  • @Curiosityuk
    @Curiosityuk 6 років тому +4

    What an amazing lady. Experiencing life and what the world has to offer. I hope she stays safe on her travels.

  • @screemerbeemer
    @screemerbeemer 7 років тому +43

    "The freedom outweighs anything else" Nailed it!

  • @andymonk9505
    @andymonk9505 5 років тому +6

    I had a van like that, I parked on the river all summer, the love machine. I just bought 1985 Ford Econoline 250 with 35,000 miles,no wear needs some engine work on the wiring melted and I am having a hard time finding parts and diagrams, it's sweet,351 Windsor HO motor. I can't wait to get it tuned up.

  • @rainydaylady6596
    @rainydaylady6596 7 років тому +4

    Sounds like a good way to see the world while you're young enough to enjoy it! Hope you have a great adventure.

  • @CheeseCrackersandaJeep
    @CheeseCrackersandaJeep 6 років тому +2

    That’s really cool! We are currently living out of a Jeep right now. Love the simplicity of it all! We are currently on a road trip to summit the highest point of every state. So far been going well. I like what you said on balancing work and travel. I found seasonal jobs have been working for me. Thanks for the video!

  • @Franaflyby
    @Franaflyby 7 років тому +67

    the lady is smart she's just trying to avoid all the drama that comes with depending on someone . Heck she has been camping out since she was very young .

    • @amandalyons1719
      @amandalyons1719 5 років тому +5

      Wish I'd have thought of it 50yrs ago but I've still time lol great grandma's I'm sure can do it as well I think my dog would love it to 🤔

    • @loiscassels8966
      @loiscassels8966 5 років тому +1

      I don’t consider moving into my rich parents’ pool house camping out.

    • @malaikalulu
      @malaikalulu 5 років тому +1

      I’m the same as her. I’m actually saving up to get a van and turning it into a home on reals. I’m a very independent person and I don’t like depending on anybody else. So far, my savings for the van is going pretty well.

    • @drharrison5770
      @drharrison5770 5 років тому

      Frana love you so much baby

    • @chelseagirl278
      @chelseagirl278 3 роки тому

      @@malaikalulu hope you bought your van and living the dream!

  • @ceil5001
    @ceil5001 7 років тому +1

    The monotony of going home to the same place every night is the backbone of what EVERYONE strives for...usually. Some people simply don't have the need or desire to lay down roots. I really 'get' that and respect it.

  • @annanirathsi1111
    @annanirathsi1111 4 роки тому +6

    I love that she was reading Tom Robbins Still Life with Woodpecker.

  • @valerieportner3314
    @valerieportner3314 5 років тому +1

    I am 63 and cant find anything affordable. I am on disability and have been thinking of living in a ? and traveling. My son thinks I am crazy but it makes me feel better seeing that people think like I do. I love to road trip and take pictures. What a great adventure.

  • @benking2078
    @benking2078 7 років тому +35

    Keep the van girl and live... Stay safe

  • @disiluzhund
    @disiluzhund 6 років тому +1

    I've been a vandweller (I love how the word looks German or Scandinavian, lol) since 1993 when I got divorced, started college and a full-time job and knew I'd only be home in my duplex just to sleep. I thought, I could do that in my car, and the world changed in an instant. I sold everything, bought a Delta 88, blacked it out with beautiful Harley-Davidson wall drapes and made some of the best memories during those years. Then I'd meet a guy who'd want to "rescue" me and give me a "stable" life and I'd sleep in his bed but never move in. I've hated the idea of my home being stuck in the dirt since for as long as I can remember. On two occasions that I tried to be regular and move in, within months I had moved back into my car or van. I'm an extreme minimalist too so I have a lot of room in my 2015 Nissan Quest. I work full-time and I plan on keeping most of the money I earn so I can write and travel on weekends and holidays.
    I lived hearing your story for the very same reason that I have preferred this lifestyle -- freedom, travel and saving money faster for that purpose.

  • @tarawear4632
    @tarawear4632 6 років тому +12

    I work as a HR Manager and live in my van too! Was so excited to hear someone else lives a similar lifestyle. Much love to you on the road!

    • @drharrison5770
      @drharrison5770 5 років тому

      Tara love you so much I miss you a lot baby

  • @dreamofjayda5268
    @dreamofjayda5268 5 років тому

    I'm addicted 2 watching these,This is by FAR the best van living video I've seen. The way she broke it down about retiring & having time 4 urself & free simpl happy living..THIS is inspiring TY for sharing💛

  • @yvette3970
    @yvette3970 5 років тому +3

    It's your life. Don't worry about what others think. They are not you. I love this living lifestyle.

  • @onesmallworld1548
    @onesmallworld1548 6 років тому +2

    I really like the idea of working 5 years and one off. Good luck Woman! :)

  • @LoisMiddleton
    @LoisMiddleton 7 років тому +4

    Very nice interview! Love how the van is tricked out for living in... you rock, L.J. - you're an inspiration!

  • @ariellynn33
    @ariellynn33 6 років тому +2

    I wish I'd thought of this when i was younger. Smart lady.

    • @drharrison5770
      @drharrison5770 5 років тому

      Linda love you so much miss you a lot baby

  • @offgridinthethirdact
    @offgridinthethirdact 7 років тому +7

    Awesome! Will be starting my van (overlanding) life next year! Thanks for the inspiration!

  • @alisonshanahan9529
    @alisonshanahan9529 6 років тому

    An excellent idea, especially when you have no responsibilities or dependents weighing you down. The more you travel the more you learn and grow. Taking a year off to do so, when you've planned it, saved for it, is sensible. Your mental health is valuable. Congratulations on being brave enough to take those steps.

  • @ildiko1vt
    @ildiko1vt 7 років тому +7

    WOW!!! How wonderful that you are doing life this way!!! Hats off to you!! May all good things come your way in your life adventure.

  • @11Kuromi
    @11Kuromi 7 років тому

    Too bad people are judging your lifestyle.. I think it's awesome and liberating. It's your life and you live it your way.. keep on going girl!

  • @Kat-n-Ollie
    @Kat-n-Ollie 6 років тому +8

    Sounds absolutely wonderful! I would love to do this one day. I can’t seem to get my husband on board so I may have to settle on shorter trips with the dog! ❤️ but it’s awesome what you are doing!

  • @2Oldcoots
    @2Oldcoots 5 років тому +1

    Much respect for this ladys' versatile & flexible approach to finding balance in life. Aristotle would be proud.

  • @christinethemommy6094
    @christinethemommy6094 6 років тому +4

    Awesome! Looks like a blast! Love the super cute, retro van! She seems super cool, adventurous and down to Earth. My only criticism is more of a question. Working a handful of years and chilling for a year between sounds sweet! However, how would this work when she's a senior?

    • @sashanealand8315
      @sashanealand8315 Рік тому

      what a silly question, why do u assume she will do exactly the same lifestyle her entire life? Its obvious from the video that she is extremely flexible.

    • @christinethemommy6094
      @christinethemommy6094 Рік тому

      @@sashanealand8315
      Wow…what a rude response to an honest question that I made 5yrs ago, and do not remember at all. Are you always a bully or just from behind a screen?

  • @thereseward7852
    @thereseward7852 6 років тому +1

    Amazing life regardless of what others think. I laugh when I think about how people think others should live yet do they love their life? How happy are they?
    I work with disabled people and absolutely 100% love it. They live with me. Most people say they could never do my work and the truth is I would never want their life. We all make the world go round don't we.

  • @ohdannyboy4727
    @ohdannyboy4727 7 років тому +26

    Its just finding, buying, and tricking out a van. I dont have much, just a box for books, clothes, and a bit of camping gear. I gotta find that van...

    • @4onewabbit
      @4onewabbit 7 років тому

      Check out Craig's List.

  • @mitchellbarnow1709
    @mitchellbarnow1709 5 років тому +2

    L.J. is beautiful, on the inside and on the outside! What a beautiful life.

  • @billisa
    @billisa 7 років тому +4

    Wow...great job! We are in the process of converting a 2017 Ram 2500 High Top Promaster into a camper! We are filming each stage of the process and watching tons of videos on youtube along the way to get new ideas!! Thank you for some great ideas!!

  • @jaycalix8782
    @jaycalix8782 4 роки тому +1

    Oh, I'm happy that you're considering the Philippines. I'm from the PH and been planning to do Vanlife and didn't expect that our country will be mentioned in any of the Vanlife vids. That's so kind.

  • @S.G..E555
    @S.G..E555 5 років тому +5

    Watched this a year ago before I became full time on the road... brilliant life strategy couldn’t agree more on this way of life for me 😁

    • @zorazorazorzzora8333
      @zorazorazorzzora8333 5 років тому +3

      Dmc doug72 Hey. Im watching this again to! 18 months in my Element...?? I work full time just can’t afford rent!

    • @S.G..E555
      @S.G..E555 5 років тому

      zorazora zorzzora Arh I’m in a Hyundai trajet with two dogs xx love it for now... hope you’re doing well ✌️❤️

  • @susanstoltz2555
    @susanstoltz2555 6 років тому +1

    Don’t worry about what other people think, as you said. You know what you’re doing and know what you want. Go girl!!

  • @RaraAvis2025
    @RaraAvis2025 7 років тому +5

    Thank you , for this posting, i am getting ready to live off the Grid.. and pretty excited about it.....:)

  • @momoparagon
    @momoparagon 4 роки тому +1

    I enjoyed listening to her story, but I really would have loved to have gotten a tour of the van especially since it seemed to have such a lovely and quirky feel to it. Plus the fact that so many out there are living in the larger sprinter vans and I feel like these smaller sizes aren't given as much view time.

  • @esenciaycaos
    @esenciaycaos 6 років тому +8

    I'm in love with this van.😭

  • @alicebradley9997
    @alicebradley9997 6 років тому +3

    you give me such great confidence in going out on my own. Thank you, I almost backed out of it till I watched this video.

  • @nancyfahey7518
    @nancyfahey7518 6 років тому +6

    "The freedom outweighs anything else" 😊

  • @danielbecker3497
    @danielbecker3497 6 років тому

    I've just bought a 1999 econoline from a couple who was traveling through Alaska, they owned the van for 3 months and I saw they were sad when I took the keys. I'm very happy to have it now I feel sort of freedom when I'm inside.

  • @lifefavorites
    @lifefavorites 7 років тому +8

    If you are happy, forget what others say. obviously you have done already. So I genuinely salute your passion, enthusiasm, will and courage. One thing though I truly believe that family is a gift of God to us. if you share this with a man and have a small family it would be a flawless victory against all odds. cause you can always go back with the money you saved and rent and be as others, yet others could NOT be like you cause it takes certain powers and will to live like this. you got it girl. GOOD LUCK

  • @viay3063
    @viay3063 6 років тому

    Love your adventurous spirit! Don’t you dare let’s others judge you! You have figured out a plan that works for YOU and you seem genuinely happy. Some people spend their lifetime in the rat race only to exit and DIE without ever actually living or enjoying life. You are awesome! I love the idea of 5 on / 1 off..SOUNDS PERFECT!

  • @shibbi-bun4665
    @shibbi-bun4665 7 років тому +4

    I am so jealous cause I am 9 and she really inspired me about how I want to live and I can live my life with me friends 😇

  • @rongray4118
    @rongray4118 6 років тому +1

    9-5 job...who wants that?! So much to see and experience!! Blessings to you guys on your life's journey!! Great Video!!

  • @SamB-fv6su
    @SamB-fv6su 5 років тому +10

    You are such a beautiful spirit - I love your lifestyle

  • @scottm15067
    @scottm15067 6 років тому

    You’re really smart to be living the way you want to and to enjoying freedom and life. You’re a very beautiful person!

  • @rumik2836
    @rumik2836 7 років тому +130

    Hi! I live in Japan, dreaming living in a Van for a long time!!!
    All the best to you and stay charming as you are 😍👍🏻🌺

    • @paulneilson6117
      @paulneilson6117 7 років тому +18

      小林流美子 She mentioned that she may be selling it for a trip to asia.

    • @takayama1638
      @takayama1638 7 років тому +2

      小林君、やっぱり日本でも出来るよ!洗湯があるからね。。。外食も美味しいし、安くて、キャンプ場少ないけど、駐車があるならね。。。

    • @_peepee_
      @_peepee_ 6 років тому

      ive always wanted to live in japan

  • @moseseseseses
    @moseseseseses 6 років тому

    I still have my 1991 Vandura van and I built two bedrooms in it it's so comfortable and nice and I lived in it for 2 years on the beach in Long Beach Mississippi I love the van life myself you get to choose every day of the week where you want to live.

  • @BigFireDave
    @BigFireDave 7 років тому +57

    No UA-cam channel? I for one would follow her on her quests around the world. Some of us might offer a place to store her van while she hits the islands.

    • @senarmthefarmer305
      @senarmthefarmer305 7 років тому +3

      BigFireDave some of us might be able to offer a free room or apartment for a short while while the Sheila travels about

    • @cloroxbleach9518
      @cloroxbleach9518 7 років тому +2

      Many people living this lifestyle don't want to broadcast it everywhere,because enjoy their privacy.I think this is smart of her since she travels alone.

    • @soinspired5421
      @soinspired5421 6 років тому

      BigFireDave 009

  • @rebeccagomez9886
    @rebeccagomez9886 4 роки тому +1

    Best Van ever!!!! I love this one the best, out of all the ones I've seen. Wish I could have done this in my younger years!!

  • @andrewwilson8317
    @andrewwilson8317 7 років тому +11

    Could she be any more gorgeous? Her mental attitude is very attractive. The kind of person you could have intelligent conversation with forever?

    • @nadmiet7733
      @nadmiet7733 5 років тому

      Nice said. I was thinking the same thing!

    • @iamasmurf1122
      @iamasmurf1122 5 років тому

      Wake up !! She is a brainless twerp

  • @Tryingtobe_matt
    @Tryingtobe_matt 7 років тому

    ive lived in a van ,tent,sailboat and your normal house/apartment to figure out what best suites me and im happiest . the van life takes the cake and in going back to it full time in a week or two

  • @CarlottaART
    @CarlottaART 7 років тому +9

    A very exciting and adventurous way to live life. Great video and interview. Best wishes on your journey!

  • @DavidRadford.
    @DavidRadford. 5 років тому +3

    “The freedom outweighs anything else” ....... Powerful

  • @morishita420
    @morishita420 6 років тому +14

    I totally get where shes coming from. Sometimes i just wanna get up and go

    • @Mittibh
      @Mittibh 4 роки тому

      Hope you did 💖

  • @carmenonea3800
    @carmenonea3800 6 років тому

    excellent! Becoming a person, being a presence, growing in being free! No end to it!

  • @JillMusic301
    @JillMusic301 6 років тому +3

    So inspiring! I'll see you out there in my newly converted van from California! You got it going on girl!

  • @mattthewanderer5029
    @mattthewanderer5029 6 років тому +2

    I've been in my van for 5 years and I can't even imagine having a house with no wheels. I swapped my rent for van payment and insurance, went from full time to part time, self employed aswell 3 years in went fully self employed, my out going is about £180 a month which includes a rented shipping container. I now work to live not live to work!

  • @sandiemom8888
    @sandiemom8888 7 років тому +8

    I think this is wonderful, she is living the life. I myself am just drooling for 48 hour mini vacation. I chose to be a stay at home mom. A choice made mutually with my husband. I was dealt a bad hand, had 1 child have brain cancer, he survived but still it was awful. Two disabled children. Now after raising 6 of my 8 children. Meaning 2 are still young I have nothing. No social security, Don't know where I'll live. Can't work due to my son's health issues. A husband who well let's just say the prince turned into a toad. Don't get me wrong I don't regret my choice but didn't expect life to happen as it did, just watching this vlog showed me how glum my future or lack of ever going on a vacation, or maybe I'll end up in my car, at least my car is paid for, just need George Clooney to support me, lol jk. I really enjoyed watching this vlog, kudos that this woman found a way to live life to the fullest.

  • @pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN
    @pa_maj.MARTINI-van-MAN 5 років тому

    Four lifetimes by 32 years old, I like it. By the time shes 72 she will feel shes had twelve lifetimes lived. This feeling can also be achieved by changing hobbies or interests every so many years. I'm 52 and feel like I've lived more than ten lifetimes already without a doubt.
    Keep it interesting, mix things up, change can be good.

  • @pamscites3515
    @pamscites3515 6 років тому +5

    Life is about living, good for her.

  • @shakesshimmerdetailing7317
    @shakesshimmerdetailing7317 6 років тому

    If she sees this. Your van is Very Creative! I like what you did with it and saving money while doing it that's Awesome!

  • @hotofftheveganpress7446
    @hotofftheveganpress7446 6 років тому +3

    Beautiful story & lifestyle created by her, for her.

  • @vahneb7260
    @vahneb7260 6 років тому

    I'm old enough to be your grandmother and I have a piece of advice for you....live your dream! Don't ever be concerned about what other people will say. People will talk either way, so live your dream!

  • @TheSimaralynn
    @TheSimaralynn 7 років тому +318

    How does she bathe and use the bathroom. That's what I'm most curious about in these types of videos.

    • @reprisler
      @reprisler 7 років тому +125

      gym membership for showers. she resorbs all urine and feces for a zero-waste lifestyle.

    • @nocando17
      @nocando17 7 років тому +46

      gym membership most likely

    • @wolfpak8228
      @wolfpak8228 7 років тому +10

      John 47 --you're funny, just google this-----

    • @BlaneysChannel
      @BlaneysChannel 7 років тому +9

      notunlikethewaves That's funny. Keep up the good humor.

    • @coolcatcarolena4951
      @coolcatcarolena4951 7 років тому +43

      Smara Torres gym memberships are the most common, but before I got a van with a bathroom I used a lot of wetwipes, friend's places, camp grounds and rivers on public land :-)

  • @RosieTheRiveterWWII
    @RosieTheRiveterWWII 6 років тому +1

    Young, beautiful, living simple n free, what else can anyone ask for. Way to go! go! go!