I never sleep in a Walmart parking lot, at truck stop nor in a rest area.. never. I pull into the back parking lot of a large, name-brand motel, turn off the lights and fall asleep. It's much safer and more quiet and restful. I've never been disturbed by a knocking on my door. In the morning, I'll often drive to a rest area and prep coffee and breakfast, and take a short walk, and be on my way. Welcome home!
Cary Pettit vodka fried ones brain and liquid oxy messed the other one up. They got stupid on their 20's...if they were living under a bridge I would be in worse shape worried about them
I truly understand your worries about your 39 and 43 year old children living at home still we have been there with our oldest and his wife. We finally realized we were only enabling them and they needed get out on their own. Guess what once they know you are no longer going to bell them out they manage to survive on their own. They have to seek treatment and find someone to become their life coach a person that will guide them. What are your grown children going to do when they no longer having you taking care of them in life. I am not trying to be mean only sharing what we have learned.
J. C. I'm not sure what to think of that, someone must be receptive to what you have to say and self driven, otherwise it's a futile effort. There is no good answer.
In my van life days I loved the truck stops...which in Europe is mostly a gasstation with a big parking lot. Perfect in the morning when you dont have a toilet in the van. Saying good morning to the sleepy truckers in the morning while getting a coffee and a pee! I always felt quite safe in between the massive trucks, protected from the wind n rain. Soon soon soon I will be living that life again!
Funny story - I tried to give a homeless guy my vegan leftovers, and when I told him they were vegan, he tried to give them back to me!!! Guess he wasn't that hungry. haha
maybe he didn't know what it means, maybe he was already insecure about taking the food for some reasons and then he felt like giving them back and he would've done it no matter what you've said? of course I can be wrong, you've been there, so you know better, but it definetely wasn't nice
Occupying a parking spot where a semi can fit is not a way to make friends with truckers, and could end up with some trouble if you piss off the wrong person. Often-times there's spots in other areas for smaller vehicles to park. It's getting tougher to find parking for professional drivers to get their break. Just sayin'. . . . . . :-)
The way you two interact has started rubbing off on me and the way I speak and interact with my husband!! Love you guys!! Fyi I'm a transplant from Kara and Nates channel!!
Welcome back to the frozen tundra. I would love to see a video discussing the perceived (media) danger for travellers to Mexico, some discussion of dos/don't dos and generally a wrap up of your trip. Aside from your documented vehicle engine expenses it would be great to learn about the other costs of your trip...like fuel, (what mpg do you get), eating out, how to get pessos efficiently (convert cash there / covert there)..love your content, watching from Ottawa
Wish you guys had showed more of Chicago. It's such an awesome city, also andersonville has tons of over night parking, that's where we slept in our van when we were there
Take that clip of your finger on your phone and show it to your doctor next time you go. You could have something called Raynaud's phenomenon. It's not necessarily a biggie, even if you do have it, but it can indicate other things and your doc should be made aware.
WithMetta I was thinking the same thing. I've had Renauds for about 3 years now and it's a pain. I even get it in the summer if I let my core temp drop in the evenings. I find that the only way to get the feeling back is to fill a sink with hot water and hold my hands under until all the blood gets back in there.
I second that. I have Raynaud syndrome and it can happen even when it's not that cold. It sucks, it can be painful sometimes but there is nothing much that can be done
I think the whole sleeping part is the big stress, when I used to travel for weeks I stopped in motorhome parks but after a while it was not a financially justifiable cause.. Used to be in Europe you could park for free in service stations, now you gotta pay.. Big rip off
So glad you said the name of your heater. I thought I recognized the control panel. I have the Espar B2 (same, just gas version) in my 5Mars Illusion. I love, love, love it. It only sips genteelly at the gas and it keeps me warm, even in a snow storm and -15 weather. BTW, we still have snow falling here, in the 416.
FYI, it's house music not trance. You're in it's birthplace, Chicago. Why does it seem so cold when you're driving around? Doesn't the van's heaters keep the cabin warm enough?
Cali D I'm aware they are different, not everyone wants to obsess over the fine minutia of this drug music ;) been down that road a long time ago, there is a pretty strong connection.
ughh serious nostalgia seeing chicago, definitely go back there and spend more time in the city as it's huge and full of amazing stuff! kitchen 17 is in lincoln park which is the cutest, chicago diner is definitely the best, but wicker park is absolutely my favorite!!
It’s so crazy seeing you guys in some beautiful, tropical location one day, and then seeing you right in my neck of the woods because I’m pretty sure I drive right past the same truck stop every day to and from work. Safe travels for the rest of your trip!
Wow great locks Eamon! Great to see you let your hair down. ;) finding a place to park is my least favorite task when its late and Im tired. It’s definitely an important subject to cover, thx.
Omg I’m from Chicago!!! I screamed when I saw the bean. Love when people visit my city 💕 this is my first time seeing Eamons hair, it’s longer than I thought!
All you had to do was get near O'Hare airport. The suburbs have lots of shopping and parking. Lots of 24 hour workout places with loads of parking, and actual Walmarts, which have never been allowed in Chicago itself. We are so behind on videos 😢 It was 40F in Austin yesterday, brrrrrr. You sent the cold our way 😠
I just starting following you today (clicked over from Trent&Allie's page)... (we are currently debating Vanlife). And you were in my CITY! in my Neighborhood (Lakeview)! Parking in Chicago is not a good experience... even with a compact car. There needs to be a dedicated site for people with local experience to help direct people to parking options. (when in Chicago... go away from the lake. It gets exponentially easier the further you get from the lake).
Well you have us beat....when we were homeless for 2 months we slept in Wal-Mart parking lots next to the rigs in -23 degree temps. We slept in our SUV with third and second row seats down, with a full size mattress in there with tons of blankets and 4 pillows. Being in your situation i might actually have enjoyed it all a little more. This wasn't too long ago either, from Nov 1st 2017 til Jan 9th 2018. We had places we stayed at during the day so we could use public restrooms and parking at Wal-Mart at night next to the rigs to cut some of the wind. It tested our marriage but we are still together and in our own place now. Had lots of help and support once people learned i am a veteran. If i went travelling though, I think i would want a big RV, with a bathroom, shower etc. some get down right expensive but there are also conversion van sized RVs with all the amenities. Good video and Chicago is great, keep filming!!! And yes all the driving will wear you out lol.
I love this video, it's so freaking accurate, lol. It gets so hard when me or my partner are tired and cranky and can't find a good street or even Walmart to park. When we were in Chicago the only downtown-y area we parked was the Wrigleyville and Wicker Park neighborhoods, otherwise you need to get out of downtown, the first tier suburbs are pretty decent too because they aren't your typical suburb so it wouldn't be out of place to be parking in those neighborhoods.
Absolutely love your vlogs! Have decided to go vegan and am 7 days I to the journey. Many reasons why I’ve done this, but your videos pushed me over the edge! Made your pancakes for breakfast and seriously...wowzers! If I can make everything taste that awesome this will be super easy! Keep the awesome videos coming, I’m addicted and can’t wait for Friday’s now! Cheers!
I came here to look for a spot but I did live in Chicago for four years without a parking pass. My advice is check every side street within two miles of lakeshore drive, it's typically unrestricted / no parking pass required. I used to live near edge water beach and after driving for up to 30 minutes in the area I could find a spot. Also You can park on the meters for free after a certain time but you must move or pay in the morning because it's the first thing the cops do. I read all of the signs. After working in downtown overnight for a year I found a few special loopholes that includes loading zones and meters. Also if it's like free parking on Sunday than after Saturday night you'll be cool. The loading zones usually have two specific times posted and everything outside of that is no meter no restriction, only the weathered pros dare park there . . . It's always worked for me. Also, parking garages can cost about $25 - $50. You'll more likely find spots during daylight hours so park and ride the subway. Walk home to van. This note is only supposed to give some advice to anyone else van camping in Chicago, good luck with the parallel park, it's going to be tight.
No over night parking in a Walmart Supercenter is for 18 wheelers. In any major city like Chicago which is plagged with business parks and industrial areas(where we truckers sleep the night before getting loaded in the morning ). Big lots, big hotel parking lots, big apartment buildings with more than 10 buildings, small non brand name truck stops inside the city limits (if they are own and managed by Indians, they will ask you to leave), big hospital parking lots, 24 hours restaurants (Dennis and many others). 24 hours laundry facilities and on the road rest areas and the big brand name truck stops. When traveling in group hwy off ramps, especially where truckers park for the night, also DOT scales(the attending cops are gone from 11pm to 6am, a safe place to stay, full of cameras ). I have been a successful homeless trucker presently making over 150K a year. (homeless and nomadic by choice). I love watching your Van living videos. I plan to get a 350 transit ford van with the 3.5 litres twin turbo charged gas engine, 148 inches wheel base with an extra high roof and build and all cedar wood including paneling and cabinets, it will be complete off grid van with the state of the art technologies, estimated cost under 100k.
Awesome video! The food looked great, cant go wrong with pizza! We have just started renovating a 1977 Airstream Argosy so love following along with the van life tips and tricks! Also, props on the left over pizza to the guy! haha the truck stop, we did that on our road trip!
We bought a van on Friday and did our first night on Saturday driving from Germany to the UK and you looked how we felt. I was SO tired and we were hunting around for somewhere to stop 😂 it’s a horrible feeling 😜
Aww you were in my neck of the woods! It’s difficult to find parking during daylight hours much less at night! I felt my own anxiety and frustration rising just watching you guys. 🤭Praying warmer spring weather rolls in soon for you.
What I've done when looking for a place to sleep, especially a Walmart, is using Google map's street view or the 360° images to look around and scout out potential parking spots or parking lots!
Be careful!! Some cities have a city ordinance that says you can’t park overnight at Walmart. I’m in Denver and ALL Walmarts within the city limits have signs posted for no overnight parking. Most of them also have cameras and police patrol that will kick you out rather quickly. It’s been the hardest place in my travels so far to find overnight parking. There’s another app called trucker path that’ll show you where there is overnight parking and is especially nice for larger rigs like Schoolies. Bless!!
Northwest of downtown Chicago usually has free street parking! Always read the street signs though so you don't get ticketed. Western and California are busier streets but head north and you're bound to find something, especially between Division Street to the south and Fullerton to the north that's pretty safe. I used to see vans/campers around there occasionally when I lived in the area. A great cafe in that area is Handlebar. They have amazing vegan breakfast options. I recommend the Pepita Scramble! Someone else mentioned Chicago Diner (meat free since '83!), which is also really good (especially the milkshakes/cinnamon rolls!) and has two locations. Also, there are no full Walmarts in Chicago proper. Just those neighborhood markets with no parking. And careful with Walgreens! Depending on the location they have cameras may tow you if you're there too long. :( Hope you get to go back! I love Chicago!
Just an FYI.... being a truck driver and knowing the shortages of truck parking... many drivers get really upset when vanlifers and small Rv's take designated truck parking spots. Please try to park in other spots. Truck drivers are not always able to just keep looking for parking....so please keep this in mind when you choose a truckers parking spot. Especially in the bigger cities.
Something romantic every fourth... hmm... here in the Philippines, we called that "MONTHSARY" hahahahaha... Couples are celebrating their special number every month. 😂😂😂😂
I could tell you guys were completely wiped out from driving and were ready to pull over and sleep in the first place you could find. With the Sprinter Van you can blend in anywhere and nobody would know you were sleeping inside of it! E&B
It's poor etiquette to take up a big rig spot like that. Truckers get pretty salty about it. You can almost always find a smaller spot at the truck stop, while they really cant. ✌️
Truckers are an interesting group, some are amazing and some are well... not. I've heard stories that some will be not so kind to non-truckers parking in "their spots". When we towed a 37" trailer back from Florida to Wisconsin we were got some serious stink eye at some of the rest stops.
It's not even about being salty, it's just that they have limited resources. Even cars with trailers can drop the trailer and park next to it in the car parking at truck stops.
Lol we once had to park between the trucks up north one year . Because we ran low on gas in the middle of the night towing our 30 foot trailer . Fun times . I actually don’t mind the truck stops
Also, forgot to add, parking a Van or any 4 wheeler in an 18 wheeler parking are between 2 tractor trailer semis is asking to be quick out the truck stop all together in the wee hours of the morning (1 to 2 am), it is big No No. From 18 wheeler, Antonio
I travel in a semi truck while my honey does the driving. A great Truck parking app is Truckers Path which gives a map of parking at different places that offer parking for nighttime such as Truck stops, Rest areas,etc. Tonight we are parked in New York state not the city. Yes some have APU & some of us Idle. We are heading towards Indianapolis in morning. Travel safe.
I have a ford transit and I park at ford dealerships, just pull up near the service entrance and park with all the other vehicles there for service. Never had an issue.
former chicagoan... walmarts... sure, but the streets are def' marked for residential tags, but there's a # of streets you duck into and park. But it's definitely a crap shoot. You can find parking that's less restrictive near the mixed blocks, like by a Trader Joe's or Whole Foods. But you'll need definitely need to read all the signs. Seeing where you are going there's a # of cute/fun towns on your way back. Long Beach, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, New Buffalo. Stay Warm.
Also, I will highly recommend a 3.5 liter twin turbo charged gas engine. It gets the same fuel economy than any of the small diesel engines, out performance them all at the much less cost and what is more, mechanically and otherwise, trouble free
I've also lived and continue to live the life. Your truckstop venture was Sooo real. I'm, as I recall, always successful at truck stops but over and away from big rig noise... Being single I do Laguna Beach stealth..2 mo. a year. Then San Diego, coachella valley, napa, Same places every year..so I know a lot of people in each town,and the town itself...Good informative series of vlogs...G.T.
I thought you were eating meat freaked me out. But you stayed veggie. Also, I'm absolutely so proud of you for feeding the homeless. We ended up in Stockton, CA the mgr of the pizza place showed up like over an hour late his response "you want it or not." We had our own homeless man but although I wanted to give him the rest of the pizza. My bf and son said no because he looked way to crazy they thought he may attack me. I felt so bad, kindness could have made a difference. Watch Robin on Creativity RV her one on Walmart and she did one on truck stops too. Truckers don't want you tight between them as they pull out in dark and may hit you. One she said was CASINOS.
lots and lots of rest stops along the interstates. wife and I have slept more than a few nights at rest stops sleeping in our ford flex. usually safe, well lit and water and bathrooms available. cheers
It would be so awesome if I could see your van! I live in hamilton, it would be awesome to get a lesson or something on how van life works! It’s been a dream of mine for the past 4ish years. They have shows where you take your motor home to show others, talk to fellow hobbyist. Have a safe drive to Toronto!
Plenty of safe quiet street parking in my former ‘hood, West Ridge (West Rogers Park). It’s far north side. We moved to FL, miss the food in Chicago but not the cold! There is a Walmart just outside the city limits in Skokie, not sure they allow overnight parking.
Love your channel! We start our vanlife journey tomorrow all the way over in Australia :) Will need to get that maccas free Wi-Fi to keep up with you guys :)
I wish I would have seen this earlier. If you are ever back in Chicago you can park in front of my house- welcome to Chicago
I never sleep in a Walmart parking lot, at truck stop nor in a rest area.. never. I pull into the back parking lot of a large, name-brand motel, turn off the lights and fall asleep. It's much safer and more quiet and restful. I've never been disturbed by a knocking on my door. In the morning, I'll often drive to a rest area and prep coffee and breakfast, and take a short walk, and be on my way. Welcome home!
Good idea i have to keep that im mind
garcher2 that’s a great idea! I’d imagine it’s about the best overnight parking idea...especially for solo trailblazers! Thanks for sharing!
Yeah, now that U said never, U are going to get that knock!!! Lol
Hmmm, I thought about that but I thought I'd get fined lol. I may try that in Canada
@@theflyinhawaiiantravels354 Yep, ruined it now!! Everyone is going to do it...
Bless your little adventurous hearts...
Absolutely feel in love with the positive vibes on this channel. ❤️❤️ literally the cutest couple, one dedicated subscriber coming up
I have a 39&43 yr old still living at home with mama and watching y'all helps me not give up on young adults. I never miss a vid of y'all's
Cary Pettit vodka fried ones brain and liquid oxy messed the other one up. They got stupid on their 20's...if they were living under a bridge I would be in worse shape worried about them
I just follow these 2 and smile anyway
I truly understand your worries about your 39 and 43 year old children living at home still we have been there with our oldest and his wife. We finally realized we were only enabling them and they needed get out on their own. Guess what once they know you are no longer going to bell them out they manage to survive on their own. They have to seek treatment and find someone to become their life coach a person that will guide them. What are your grown children going to do when they no longer having you taking care of them in life. I am not trying to be mean only sharing what we have learned.
Gawd, I'm 39 and my parents are a bit upset I won't live with them, I would have a really good excuse, but that just isn't going to happen!
J. C. I'm not sure what to think of that, someone must be receptive to what you have to say and self driven, otherwise it's a futile effort. There is no good answer.
In my van life days I loved the truck stops...which in Europe is mostly a gasstation with a big parking lot. Perfect in the morning when you dont have a toilet in the van. Saying good morning to the sleepy truckers in the morning while getting a coffee and a pee! I always felt quite safe in between the massive trucks, protected from the wind n rain. Soon soon soon I will be living that life again!
You guys should do a Toronto travel guide! Would love to discover local hidden gems - food, cool sights etc! 😊
I would love that! I'd also love a tour of places - Algonquin, Muskoka, Kawarthas, Manitoulin Island. that make for good Van exploring in Ontario!
These are both great ideas!! Will be sure to show you around Ontario and Toronto very soon 💛
I love that you (Bec) said "we try to do something romantic on the 4th every month" and your idea of romantic was deep-dish pizza, haha.
I realize it's pretty off topic but does anyone know of a good website to stream new series online ?
@@nehemiahjudah2009 netflix
Funny story - I tried to give a homeless guy my vegan leftovers, and when I told him they were vegan, he tried to give them back to me!!! Guess he wasn't that hungry. haha
Debbie Wolfe nobody is that hungry. 😝
😂😂 lol
maybe he didn't know what it means, maybe he was already insecure about taking the food for some reasons and then he felt like giving them back and he would've done it no matter what you've said? of course I can be wrong, you've been there, so you know better, but it definetely wasn't nice
He may not have know what "Vegan" means, and so assumed it was some weird dish that most people don't eat, so was uneasy about it.
No, it’s just that even homeless people aren’t that desperate
You guys are my favorite van life couple. I absolutely love the personality that shows through in your videos. I love the more frequent uploads! 😊
Occupying a parking spot where a semi can fit is not a way to make friends with truckers, and could end up with some trouble if you piss off the wrong person. Often-times there's spots in other areas for smaller vehicles to park. It's getting tougher to find parking for professional drivers to get their break. Just sayin'. . . . . . :-)
The way you two interact has started rubbing off on me and the way I speak and interact with my husband!! Love you guys!! Fyi I'm a transplant from Kara and Nates channel!!
Bec - you may have Raynaud's, with your fingers like that when it's cold.
omg i was diagnosed with raynauds at 13 :o
It was so inspiring to watch a van life video not just out in the wild or by the ocean but by the city! Great video!!
How many times can Eamon call the restaurant the wrong name
AHHAH he doesn't listen very well...🤣🤣
I love the sound of trucks running next to me. Sleep so good!
Y’all made one old antique lady smile real big this morning.
Awe I'm so glad you made us a part of your morning and that we could bring a smile to your face! Happy Sunday 💛
Welcome back to the frozen tundra. I would love to see a video discussing the perceived (media) danger for travellers to Mexico, some discussion of dos/don't dos and generally a wrap up of your trip. Aside from your documented vehicle engine expenses it would be great to learn about the other costs of your trip...like fuel, (what mpg do you get), eating out, how to get pessos efficiently (convert cash there / covert there)..love your content, watching from Ottawa
Wish you guys had showed more of Chicago. It's such an awesome city, also andersonville has tons of over night parking, that's where we slept in our van when we were there
Take that clip of your finger on your phone and show it to your doctor next time you go. You could have something called Raynaud's phenomenon. It's not necessarily a biggie, even if you do have it, but it can indicate other things and your doc should be made aware.
WithMetta I was thinking the same thing. I've had Renauds for about 3 years now and it's a pain. I even get it in the summer if I let my core temp drop in the evenings. I find that the only way to get the feeling back is to fill a sink with hot water and hold my hands under until all the blood gets back in there.
Sorry to hear that, Scott. I'm glad you have a way to deal with it but I'm sure it's a big drag.
I second that. I have Raynaud syndrome and it can happen even when it's not that cold. It sucks, it can be painful sometimes but there is nothing much that can be done
Scott Talbot omg me too! Ive had it since i was about 12-13!!
I have raynauds, have for years, The Wim Hof method worked really well to make it go away.
I think the whole sleeping part is the big stress, when I used to travel for weeks I stopped in motorhome parks but after a while it was not a financially justifiable cause..
Used to be in Europe you could park for free in service stations, now you gotta pay..
Big rip off
So glad you said the name of your heater. I thought I recognized the control panel. I have the Espar B2 (same, just gas version) in my 5Mars Illusion. I love, love, love it. It only sips genteelly at the gas and it keeps me warm, even in a snow storm and -15 weather. BTW, we still have snow falling here, in the 416.
FYI, it's house music not trance. You're in it's birthplace, Chicago. Why does it seem so cold when you're driving around? Doesn't the van's heaters keep the cabin warm enough?
Nuno S yes house music baby thats my jam lol
Techno? I believe all are common references
Techno is from Detroit. House is from Chicago. They are both electronic but quite different in sound.
@@kfstreich4787 Maybe actually google house and trance before you make idiotic assumptions
Cali D I'm aware they are different, not everyone wants to obsess over the fine minutia of this drug music ;) been down that road a long time ago, there is a pretty strong connection.
My Husband and I were married 4-4-2014 and celebrate the 4th of every month also.😃🌹✌
Love watching the process! Van life isn’t always as easy as youtube can make it seem. Much love buddies😊💞
Exactly, but for us it's always worth it!! Lots of love right back Xx
ughh serious nostalgia seeing chicago, definitely go back there and spend more time in the city as it's huge and full of amazing stuff! kitchen 17 is in lincoln park which is the cutest, chicago diner is definitely the best, but wicker park is absolutely my favorite!!
You guys need to check out the Chicago Diner next time! They have awesome vegan food.
So bummed to have missed it!! We had so many messages about it once we'd left 🙁. Next time!!!
You guys are so adorable! I so look forward to your videos every week! You make me want to try vanlife guys!
It’s so crazy seeing you guys in some beautiful, tropical location one day, and then seeing you right in my neck of the woods because I’m pretty sure I drive right past the same truck stop every day to and from work.
Safe travels for the rest of your trip!
Wow great locks Eamon! Great to see you let your hair down. ;) finding a place to park is my least favorite task when its late and Im tired. It’s definitely an important subject to cover, thx.
Omg I’m from Chicago!!! I screamed when I saw the bean. Love when people visit my city 💕 this is my first time seeing Eamons hair, it’s longer than I thought!
All you had to do was get near O'Hare airport. The suburbs have lots of shopping and parking. Lots of 24 hour workout places with loads of parking, and actual Walmarts, which have never been allowed in Chicago itself.
We are so behind on videos 😢
It was 40F in Austin yesterday, brrrrrr. You sent the cold our way 😠
I live in Chicago but was in Florida for spring break so i understand the struggle of returning to the cold😂
I just starting following you today (clicked over from Trent&Allie's page)... (we are currently debating Vanlife). And you were in my CITY! in my Neighborhood (Lakeview)! Parking in Chicago is not a good experience... even with a compact car. There needs to be a dedicated site for people with local experience to help direct people to parking options. (when in Chicago... go away from the lake. It gets exponentially easier the further you get from the lake).
Well you have us beat....when we were homeless for 2 months we slept in Wal-Mart parking lots next to the rigs in -23 degree temps. We slept in our SUV with third and second row seats down, with a full size mattress in there with tons of blankets and 4 pillows. Being in your situation i might actually have enjoyed it all a little more. This wasn't too long ago either, from Nov 1st 2017 til Jan 9th 2018. We had places we stayed at during the day so we could use public restrooms and parking at Wal-Mart at night next to the rigs to cut some of the wind. It tested our marriage but we are still together and in our own place now. Had lots of help and support once people learned i am a veteran. If i went travelling though, I think i would want a big RV, with a bathroom, shower etc. some get down right expensive but there are also conversion van sized RVs with all the amenities. Good video and Chicago is great, keep filming!!! And yes all the driving will wear you out lol.
OMG! You were in Chicago, so close to me!! I hope you enjoyed Chi-town even though its cold. Love you kids!
I am so in love with Canada in the summer but I really need a tiny home somewhere tropical for the winter!
thanks for the chill! It feels like 100 degrees F today!
I love this video, it's so freaking accurate, lol. It gets so hard when me or my partner are tired and cranky and can't find a good street or even Walmart to park. When we were in Chicago the only downtown-y area we parked was the Wrigleyville and Wicker Park neighborhoods, otherwise you need to get out of downtown, the first tier suburbs are pretty decent too because they aren't your typical suburb so it wouldn't be out of place to be parking in those neighborhoods.
"We making him vegan too and he don't even know it! " Hahaha XD
"ignore the trance going down" hahahaha you guys are hilarious period.
Absolutely love your vlogs! Have decided to go vegan and am 7 days I to the journey. Many reasons why I’ve done this, but your videos pushed me over the edge! Made your pancakes for breakfast and seriously...wowzers! If I can make everything taste that awesome this will be super easy! Keep the awesome videos coming, I’m addicted and can’t wait for Friday’s now! Cheers!
I came here to look for a spot but I did live in Chicago for four years without a parking pass. My advice is check every side street within two miles of lakeshore drive, it's typically unrestricted / no parking pass required. I used to live near edge water beach and after driving for up to 30 minutes in the area I could find a spot. Also You can park on the meters for free after a certain time but you must move or pay in the morning because it's the first thing the cops do. I read all of the signs. After working in downtown overnight for a year I found a few special loopholes that includes loading zones and meters. Also if it's like free parking on Sunday than after Saturday night you'll be cool. The loading zones usually have two specific times posted and everything outside of that is no meter no restriction, only the weathered pros dare park there . . . It's always worked for me. Also, parking garages can cost about $25 - $50. You'll more likely find spots during daylight hours so park and ride the subway. Walk home to van. This note is only supposed to give some advice to anyone else van camping in Chicago, good luck with the parallel park, it's going to be tight.
What a great thing to do. Traveling all over in a van. Wonderful idea and I hope to do it too one day. Thank you for sharing your adventures!
That is a huge transition in temperatures! I love that you were able to take us through Chicago. :)
I hope you don't catch a cold, I love ya'll's videos
Omgosh! You guys are hilarious! Love your videos!
Loved the vlog thanks made my day love you guys
Awww “may the 4th be with you”! Y’all really get me vegan curious!
Hahah yes the 4th has been with us our entire relationship it seems ❤️🤣
What kind of heater do you gave?
No over night parking in a Walmart Supercenter is for 18 wheelers.
In any major city like Chicago which is plagged with business parks and industrial areas(where we truckers sleep the night before getting loaded in the morning ).
Big lots, big hotel parking lots, big apartment buildings with more than 10 buildings, small non brand name truck stops inside the city limits (if they are own and managed by Indians, they will ask you to leave), big hospital parking lots, 24 hours restaurants (Dennis and many others).
24 hours laundry facilities and on the road rest areas and the big brand name truck stops. When traveling in group hwy off ramps, especially where truckers park for the night, also DOT scales(the attending cops are gone from 11pm to 6am, a safe place to stay, full of cameras ).
I have been a successful homeless trucker presently making over 150K a year. (homeless and nomadic by choice). I love watching your Van living videos. I plan to get a 350 transit ford van with the 3.5 litres twin turbo charged gas engine, 148 inches wheel base with an extra high roof and build and all cedar wood including paneling and cabinets, it will be complete off grid van with the state of the art technologies, estimated cost under 100k.
Awesome video! The food looked great, cant go wrong with pizza! We have just started renovating a 1977 Airstream Argosy so love following along with the van life tips and tricks! Also, props on the left over pizza to the guy! haha the truck stop, we did that on our road trip!
Nice! Always good to see your adventures. Can’t wait for the next vid
I just binged watch all your videos today, I love you guys
Thats cute 4th. Day lol sooo cute I love it
We bought a van on Friday and did our first night on Saturday driving from Germany to the UK and you looked how we felt. I was SO tired and we were hunting around for somewhere to stop 😂 it’s a horrible feeling 😜
Yeeeeeeees, Kitchen 17. Next time you come through Chicago, go to Handlebar. *hugs*
Aww you were in my neck of the woods! It’s difficult to find parking during daylight hours much less at night! I felt my own anxiety and frustration rising just watching you guys. 🤭Praying warmer spring weather rolls in soon for you.
What I've done when looking for a place to sleep, especially a Walmart, is using Google map's street view or the 360° images to look around and scout out potential parking spots or parking lots!
"buddy, you never had a 6 pack." that is hilarious!!
You guys are so awesome. Love watching your vacation videos.
Be careful!! Some cities have a city ordinance that says you can’t park overnight at Walmart. I’m in Denver and ALL Walmarts within the city limits have signs posted for no overnight parking. Most of them also have cameras and police patrol that will kick you out rather quickly. It’s been the hardest place in my travels so far to find overnight parking.
There’s another app called trucker path that’ll show you where there is overnight parking and is especially nice for larger rigs like Schoolies. Bless!!
Northwest of downtown Chicago usually has free street parking! Always read the street signs though so you don't get ticketed. Western and California are busier streets but head north and you're bound to find something, especially between Division Street to the south and Fullerton to the north that's pretty safe. I used to see vans/campers around there occasionally when I lived in the area. A great cafe in that area is Handlebar. They have amazing vegan breakfast options. I recommend the Pepita Scramble! Someone else mentioned Chicago Diner (meat free since '83!), which is also really good (especially the milkshakes/cinnamon rolls!) and has two locations.
Also, there are no full Walmarts in Chicago proper. Just those neighborhood markets with no parking. And careful with Walgreens! Depending on the location they have cameras may tow you if you're there too long. :(
Hope you get to go back! I love Chicago!
i was so excited to seee you were miles away from me in chicago! glad that you (kind of) enjoyed your visit !!
Love Chicago and your videos!!! Amazing vlogs - thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the great vid! :)
Happy 4th! :)
Hope you enjoy a look at how we stealth camp overnight in city areas! Let us know if you have any Qs 💛☉
Eamon & Bec we’re are y’all headed next?
Just an FYI.... being a truck driver and knowing the shortages of truck parking... many drivers get really upset when vanlifers and small Rv's take designated truck parking spots. Please try to park in other spots. Truck drivers are not always able to just keep looking for parking....so please keep this in mind when you choose a truckers parking spot. Especially in the bigger cities.
Eamon & Bec I wish I had known you were going through Chicago I would have loved to meet you and show you around some that's my home town
What kind of heater do y’all use?
Espahr?
Something romantic every fourth... hmm... here in the Philippines, we called that "MONTHSARY" hahahahaha... Couples are celebrating their special number every month. 😂😂😂😂
Thanks for keeping it OneHunned, lovely vanlifers
Yes, I enjoyed it! You guys are so fun.
Whoa, how far you’ve come in 6 months... 60,000 subscribers! Killin’.
Aww I love you guys! So I’m officially a future Skoolie owner, and I am SOOOO stealing a TOOON of ideas fro u guys! Los amo! Mis héroes!
I could tell you guys were completely wiped out from driving and were ready to pull over and sleep in the first place you could find. With the Sprinter Van you can blend in anywhere and nobody would know you were sleeping inside of it! E&B
It's poor etiquette to take up a big rig spot like that. Truckers get pretty salty about it. You can almost always find a smaller spot at the truck stop, while they really cant. ✌️
Good point! We typically park off to the side because we can (as you mentioned) but got here passed midnight and didn't have much choice ☉☺
Truckers are an interesting group, some are amazing and some are well... not. I've heard stories that some will be not so kind to non-truckers parking in "their spots". When we towed a 37" trailer back from Florida to Wisconsin we were got some serious stink eye at some of the rest stops.
It's not even about being salty, it's just that they have limited resources. Even cars with trailers can drop the trailer and park next to it in the car parking at truck stops.
These kids have no respect clearly.
The number 4 represents the home, stability and family.
Love how your vans between the semi's ! Gotta sleep😴
Ooooooooo you were in Chicago and I missed that next time you have to say hi 😃
Thank you for showing us the real about parking!!!!
Congrats on 60k guys!
u are confident ur ideas are awesome u deserve more
Lol we once had to park between the trucks up north one year . Because we ran low on gas in the middle of the night towing our 30 foot trailer . Fun times . I actually don’t mind the truck stops
Also, forgot to add, parking a Van or any 4 wheeler in an 18 wheeler parking are between 2 tractor trailer semis is asking to be quick out the truck stop all together in the wee hours of the morning (1 to 2 am), it is big No No.
From 18 wheeler, Antonio
I travel in a semi truck while my honey does the driving.
A great Truck parking app is
Truckers Path which gives a map of parking at different places that offer parking for nighttime such as Truck stops, Rest areas,etc.
Tonight we are parked in New York state not the city.
Yes some have APU & some of us Idle. We are heading towards Indianapolis in morning.
Travel safe.
I have a ford transit and I park at ford dealerships, just pull up near the service entrance and park with all the other vehicles there for service. Never had an issue.
former chicagoan... walmarts... sure, but the streets are def' marked for residential tags, but there's a # of streets you duck into and park. But it's definitely a crap shoot. You can find parking that's less restrictive near the mixed blocks, like by a Trader Joe's or Whole Foods. But you'll need definitely need to read all the signs. Seeing where you are going there's a # of cute/fun towns on your way back. Long Beach, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, New Buffalo. Stay Warm.
Also, I will highly recommend a 3.5 liter twin turbo charged gas engine.
It gets the same fuel economy than any of the small diesel engines, out performance them all at the much less cost and what is more, mechanically and otherwise, trouble free
Sry about the cold. I seen ur IG and new u two where freezing. Good news is mild temps thus coming weekend. Stay warm.😉
Love you two crazy kids!
I've also lived and continue to live the life. Your truckstop venture was Sooo real. I'm, as I recall, always successful at truck stops but over and away from big rig noise... Being single I do Laguna Beach stealth..2 mo. a year. Then San Diego, coachella valley, napa, Same places every year..so I know a lot of people in each town,and the town itself...Good informative series of vlogs...G.T.
I thought you were eating meat freaked me out. But you stayed veggie. Also, I'm absolutely so proud of you for feeding the homeless. We ended up in Stockton, CA the mgr of the pizza place showed up like over an hour late his response "you want it or not." We had our own homeless man but although I wanted to give him the rest of the pizza. My bf and son said no because he looked way to crazy they thought he may attack me. I felt so bad, kindness could have made a difference. Watch Robin on Creativity RV her one on Walmart and she did one on truck stops too. Truckers don't want you tight between them as they pull out in dark and may hit you. One she said was CASINOS.
Love your video. They are so interesting and funny.
lots and lots of rest stops along the interstates. wife and I have slept more than a few nights at rest stops sleeping in our ford flex. usually safe, well lit and water and bathrooms available. cheers
Gosh, I love you guys so much 💕💕
It would be so awesome if I could see your van! I live in hamilton, it would be awesome to get a lesson or something on how van life works! It’s been a dream of mine for the past 4ish years. They have shows where you take your motor home to show others, talk to fellow hobbyist. Have a safe drive to Toronto!
Plenty of safe quiet street parking in my former ‘hood, West Ridge (West Rogers Park). It’s far north side. We moved to FL, miss the food in Chicago but not the cold! There is a Walmart just outside the city limits in Skokie, not sure they allow overnight parking.
You guys are my hero!!! sending out some love form Australia!!!
“We were actually about to punch each other in the face” 😭I’m weak
If you took 94 all the way up through Wisconsin, you passed right by me. Safe travels home to Toronto!
"buddy you never had a six pack" haha. funniest line.
Love your channel!
We start our vanlife journey tomorrow all the way over in Australia :)
Will need to get that maccas free Wi-Fi to keep up with you guys :)
Oh how fun!! Australia would be an AMAZING country to live van life! Sending you lots of love as you begin your own adventure 💛☉
That’s reality in the short bus too