This was probably the best “day in my life” type of van life video. Some days it is just hanging, going on a little walk, and dealing with the limitations. I can’t wait to be in a place like that sometime this year
I use a car bug net I buy from Amazon to drape over one of the windows for ventilation. The smells in the car, especially when cooking won't leave without ventilation. It also keeps bugs out when I roll down that window. I still had to tape the edges at the bottom with clear tape so bugs can't burrow through. Highly recommend 👍
Just waking up to a sunrise and the sun peeking over the mountains is priceless, thanks for sharing and shout out from rural Mexico. Be safe out there.
It's nice to see a young lady out and about and just enjoying life. That's what it's all about anyway. Great video - awesome vibes. Keep up the amazing work. Cheyenne. Part time van lifer and professional commercial truck driver..
I think your SUV set up is one of the best! You can sit up, and everything is organized, functional, and within reach. Unfortunately for me, I have a RAV4, which is smaller, and it doesn’t allow me to sit up on the bed.
Hard to live in van especially if you wanted to have shower to poo omg..its also risky if there are bad people around you…waaaaaa i cannot live like that… your so brave girl be safe
I used to do the same (solo female with a pup), just driving up some winding mountain roads with my 4x4 SUV and roof top tent, and stay at the most beautiful spots inmidst beautiful nature. I witnessed the most amazing sunrises and sunsets, I slept under the most beautiful starry skies, and sometimes I woke up above a sea of clouds. Unfortunately, I often had to pack up once it got dark because I started freaking out...I never got "used" to it, and instead of getting better with time, it only got worse to the point I no longer dared staying up there after sunset. I would have given anything to overcome that stupid, irrational fear and being able to enjoy the peace and beauty you find in those remote spots high up in the mountains. I love how you just can't be bothered. And I wish I could do the same. I ended up selling the SUV and buying a bigger van. For some reason, I feel safer in it, but I can no longer get to my favourite mountain spots. Such a shame.
I wouldn't say that's an irrational fear.. Heck I'd even say you shouldn't just be scared in the evenings, because a bear can show up on you in broad daylight next to your camp sight just chilling waiting for you to come out and say hi. I heard there were 1600 bears in Wyoming when there should be only 500, so their numbers are way too high right now, and 5 out of the 1500 exclusively only eat people, instead of fish or other animals, so killing them off will soon be a thing again just like the dinosaurs. It's gonna be like that again, so that's not an irrational fear. You can get mauled at any moment out there. It's just a matter of time. Day or night. But I don't see why your van wouldn't be able to get to the same spots are your SUV did. There's a pretty big misconception about SUVs being able to get to more places than vans in general and I don't think people understand most SUVs come as AWD or 4x4 from the factory and most vans don't but just like how you built the van or the SUV out a little bit to live in it, you can put those AWD and 4x4 parts onto your van to give it the extra traction so the fun doesn't have to end. Unless it's purely a size thing and then for sure, but for most people it's a misconception about the traction.
It is so lovely that you have those fond memories of your adventures with the SUV. 😌 I definitely get bothered sometimes. It is easy to get in my head when I hear a funny sound - heart pounding and all. Fortunately, I seem to get used to it enough to keep going but I am sure my sleep quality isn't quite the same as it would be in a house! Glad you found a way to still get out there comfortably :)
New subscriber here from Philippines loved ur videos and watch from the start loved all hope you stay safe always and enjoy coz life is short more power and God bless ❤
@@MeganClaarke the channel Solar Camper Car (I think) did a video with a wind turbine. Please don't mimic his crazy driving while sticking his head out of the window though. There are also alternator chargers out there by both EcoFlow and Anker (and probably others as well) that will charge your power station very quickly while driving. I know it doesn't help when boondocking for any length of time, but it's great for driving days.
Consider adding a DC/DC charger to supplement charge your power system some are a cheap as $150 and can charge up to 500 watts and are simple to install connection to your positive terminal on your battery and ground
@MeganClaarke Pecron is $149 adjustable power output uses a mc4 connection so it works with almost any solar generator includes15 ft cable and doesn't draw any power until you switch it on so you don't accidentally drain your battery should top off your solar generator while driving between location and if it's overcast allows you to also recharge just by starting your SUV and let it idle for a hour or two
@@JackBrown-ym9qk are you using this now? I have a Pecron dc to dc. I burnt out my Alternator. They don't tell you this when they are selling it. Most Alternators for a stock vehicle are just enough for the Stock vehicle needs and no more. I recommend three things at least: 1st: Get a larger Alternator.. 2nd don't idle to charge as there is no wind to cool off the overworking alternator, 3rd. set the Pecron to only click on when its over 13.5 - 14 Volts. I had mine set to 13 volts and that is what lead to killing alternator faster. I also used it idling. Not good. I would get a consult from someone with more experience or that could lead to an alternator/battery destruction. (One leads to the other) I bought a volt meter for my cigarette outlet 12volt, a volt meter with digital read out and usb c and a charging ports. The digital readout will tell you if your alternator is healthy or getting sick. Volts going into the battery should be no less than 13.5-14 volts consistently. When you first start your car it does dip down to 12, but it pops right back up. I increase my alt from 135 amps to 160 amps. I still haven't hooked my Pecron back up since the new alternator install, but I also haven't gone camping with my van to need it yet. I'm a little gun shy now. I will see what exactly the Pecron should be set at. I might need to put in beefier gauge wires to handle heavy loads (which is what a DC to DC charge to power station is). I don't want to waste another alternator.
@bdmenne I have only used it a few times only once idling for an hour I don't have it set to the max output I'm set to get roughly roughly 320 watts I'm using it on a Gen 2 Tacoma no problems most times I used it while driving usually solar is enough to power my pecron power system 2 180watt panels in series
@KimHawthorne-k1m because it gives you real time for yourself. One gets the chance to experience and appreciate true solitude, and you can actually focus on yourself. Amongst other things.
I agree, but figured stating that opinion would bring on the haters. The part about pets in such a small space is what unnerves me, the odors a pet produces, the shedding, the storage for supplies, etc, seems impractical to me. But that’s just my personal opinion-not shared by many.
Not long into your video (b4 your saying so.) I thought you might be 🍁 Canadian??? With your bottle of "Our Compliments" brand Olive Oil... Enjoy your mobility in living. One day soon for I - I hope. Easily affordable in my early retirement!!!
I live in a safe home in the high Mohave desert I woke up to a mountain lion in my yard. I'm not sure about all these women of all ages wanting to live in a van. Camping for a week or weekend is great but full time? RV is more practical because that's what it's built for but I guess it's a disadvantage to getting up on some of these secluded mountain areas. I also understand the freedom part, this situation seems to be the norm. Well Megan be safe and enjoy.
If you make your way to Lake Havasu City AZ we have tons of open BLM land with plenty of WiFi signal and all the conveniences of town at your fingertips
I'd be more prepared on even a short walk. Walking stick, bear spray. I've still got that boy scout be prepared in me. Especially if I was a young female. Watch your back side. Enjoy the views.
The one lyrical song is Be the Cat by Kylie Dailey 🙂 Other tracks 🎶 While You Were Sleeping - Vincent & A Secret One for the Books - Kevin Dailey The Heart Knows - Luella Gren Losing Track of Time - Gabriel Kelley
Most don't realize how minimalists you have to be to do what you do
Aaaaaaah the joys of outdoors. No stress beautiful wildlife and enjoying life
👵🏽 gRANDDAUGHTER I recommend you place one extra chair out there along with a pair of men’s shoes… be safe, dear 👏🏽👏🏽💞🙏🏽
Good Point.
My mother does the same. Size 12 men's shoes on the front patio by door.
N a flannel shirt draped over the back of said 2nd chair ..
Never, never let anyone know you are alone!!!
Carry mace also. Or a stun gun....
Great Idea!!!
That’s a very good suggestion. Listen to grandma!
Beautiful view, and loved how you cooked plus cleaned up
This was probably the best “day in my life” type of van life video. Some days it is just hanging, going on a little walk, and dealing with the limitations. I can’t wait to be in a place like that sometime this year
Thank you! That means a lot. It is difficult to remember to document the mundane parts of life :)
Hello, Megan. I’m a fellow SUV solo female camper. Loved your video
I use a car bug net I buy from Amazon to drape over one of the windows for ventilation. The smells in the car, especially when cooking won't leave without ventilation.
It also keeps bugs out when I roll down that window. I still had to tape the edges at the bottom with clear tape so bugs can't burrow through.
Highly recommend 👍
Hey - I have something similar actually! Fortunately I didn't deal with too many bugs in this spot. Bug net was a necessity when in Alaska 😩
Enjoy camping ang be safe!☺️
New Mexico is always one of my favorite places, glad you had the opportunity to spend some time there.
Bob
Thanks Bob! I understand why it’s a favourite for many campers and van lifers. So many wide open spaces :)
Such a carefree, free-spirited lifestyle!
Hi Megan a really lovely vid, stay safe ❤️
Thank you Mark :)
Just waking up to a sunrise and the sun peeking over the mountains is priceless, thanks for sharing and shout out from rural Mexico. Be safe out there.
What a beautiful place to wake up to
So special 🥹
It's nice to see a young lady out and about and just enjoying life. That's what it's all about anyway. Great video - awesome vibes. Keep up the amazing work. Cheyenne. Part time van lifer and professional commercial truck driver..
Thank you Cheyenne. Happy roads to you :)
@@MeganClaarke You're Most Welcome 😁
Thanks for the video! Enjoy safe and exciting travels!
Thanks for watching :)
I think your SUV set up is one of the best! You can sit up, and everything is organized, functional, and within reach. Unfortunately for me, I have a RAV4, which is smaller, and it doesn’t allow me to sit up on the bed.
@@gracielei76 Thank you Gracie. Means a lot! Trade off on the space is definitely fuel economy 🥲
WOW you started talking and I felt the good energy!! New here! Can’t wait to watch all your videos!
Thank you Steven! 🥰
Take care, you're alone. Keep on praying ♥️🙏
XL size mens jacket on an EXTRA (Extra Large) chair, big size boots, big socks, big dog bowl and chain tie out. High Powered Rifle, stun gun.
Hard to live in van especially if you wanted to have shower to poo omg..its also risky if there are bad people around you…waaaaaa i cannot live like that… your so brave girl be safe
You picked a beautiful spot to take it easy for a few days.
It was pretty cool being up there ☺️
Subscribed.
Very cool setup. And easy on the eyes is a plus.
Be safe out there 👍
Thank you! ☺️
I used to do the same (solo female with a pup), just driving up some winding mountain roads with my 4x4 SUV and roof top tent, and stay at the most beautiful spots inmidst beautiful nature. I witnessed the most amazing sunrises and sunsets, I slept under the most beautiful starry skies, and sometimes I woke up above a sea of clouds. Unfortunately, I often had to pack up once it got dark because I started freaking out...I never got "used" to it, and instead of getting better with time, it only got worse to the point I no longer dared staying up there after sunset. I would have given anything to overcome that stupid, irrational fear and being able to enjoy the peace and beauty you find in those remote spots high up in the mountains. I love how you just can't be bothered. And I wish I could do the same.
I ended up selling the SUV and buying a bigger van. For some reason, I feel safer in it, but I can no longer get to my favourite mountain spots. Such a shame.
Maybe your gut feeling / intuition saved you from something. Some people had a really bad experience happen. Maybe you avoided it. ❤❤❤❤
I wouldn't say that's an irrational fear.. Heck I'd even say you shouldn't just be scared in the evenings, because a bear can show up on you in broad daylight next to your camp sight just chilling waiting for you to come out and say hi. I heard there were 1600 bears in Wyoming when there should be only 500, so their numbers are way too high right now, and 5 out of the 1500 exclusively only eat people, instead of fish or other animals, so killing them off will soon be a thing again just like the dinosaurs. It's gonna be like that again, so that's not an irrational fear. You can get mauled at any moment out there. It's just a matter of time. Day or night. But I don't see why your van wouldn't be able to get to the same spots are your SUV did. There's a pretty big misconception about SUVs being able to get to more places than vans in general and I don't think people understand most SUVs come as AWD or 4x4 from the factory and most vans don't but just like how you built the van or the SUV out a little bit to live in it, you can put those AWD and 4x4 parts onto your van to give it the extra traction so the fun doesn't have to end. Unless it's purely a size thing and then for sure, but for most people it's a misconception about the traction.
It is so lovely that you have those fond memories of your adventures with the SUV. 😌 I definitely get bothered sometimes. It is easy to get in my head when I hear a funny sound - heart pounding and all. Fortunately, I seem to get used to it enough to keep going but I am sure my sleep quality isn't quite the same as it would be in a house! Glad you found a way to still get out there comfortably :)
The fist time I saw you but I thing it it Superb! ( from Thailand)
New subscriber here from Philippines loved ur videos and watch from the start loved all hope you stay safe always and enjoy coz life is short more power and God bless ❤
Solo looks like fun
Very relaxing and well made video, like your SUV setup.
Glad you enjoyed it :)
Love the opening cinematography to the Luella Gren piece. Well done. 😊
Thank you 🥰🥰
You should check into a small wind turbine, I know solar is good but when it’s a cloudy day, you’re screwed, it will run day or night
That would be so cool!
@@MeganClaarke the channel Solar Camper Car (I think) did a video with a wind turbine. Please don't mimic his crazy driving while sticking his head out of the window though. There are also alternator chargers out there by both EcoFlow and Anker (and probably others as well) that will charge your power station very quickly while driving. I know it doesn't help when boondocking for any length of time, but it's great for driving days.
Lol, I promise to stay inside the vehicle while driving. 😆 Thank you for the tip!
Great views you got to experience. Happy travels to you.
A Bluetti power station is better than a wind anything.
I have an suv I would like to travel in. I love your set up. The cabinet you have is awesome I might try and mimic it
I love having all of the functional space and storage!
Stay safe and enjoy your day
How serene, thank you for sharing this 😊
This was therapeutic
That's is so nice to hear 🤗
ljep pozdrav iz bosne i hercegovine
Hi I'm from Philippines
I love your camping nice to see you and more vlog❤
Wow megan love the video you are absolutely stunning x
😂😅😂
Good for you Megan take care
I love my Bluetti stations
They are so handy!
Nice view.I would love to live like that
Watching from Philippines,Be safe always ❤❤❤❤❤
Thank you! :)
Lovely day friend ❤
Thank you 🤗
Consider adding a DC/DC charger to supplement charge your power system some are a cheap as $150 and can charge up to 500 watts and are simple to install connection to your positive terminal on your battery and ground
Sweet! Thank you for the tip 😁
@MeganClaarke Pecron is $149 adjustable power output uses a mc4 connection so it works with almost any solar generator includes15 ft cable and doesn't draw any power until you switch it on so you don't accidentally drain your battery should top off your solar generator while driving between location and if it's overcast allows you to also recharge just by starting your SUV and let it idle for a hour or two
@@JackBrown-ym9qk are you using this now? I have a Pecron dc to dc. I burnt out my Alternator. They don't tell you this when they are selling it. Most Alternators for a stock vehicle are just enough for the Stock vehicle needs and no more.
I recommend three things at least: 1st: Get a larger Alternator.. 2nd don't idle to charge as there is no wind to cool off the overworking alternator, 3rd. set the Pecron to only click on when its over 13.5 - 14 Volts. I had mine set to 13 volts and that is what lead to killing alternator faster. I also used it idling. Not good. I would get a consult from someone with more experience or that could lead to an alternator/battery destruction. (One leads to the other)
I bought a volt meter for my cigarette outlet 12volt, a volt meter with digital read out and usb c and a charging ports. The digital readout will tell you if your alternator is healthy or getting sick. Volts going into the battery should be no less than 13.5-14 volts consistently. When you first start your car it does dip down to 12, but it pops right back up.
I increase my alt from 135 amps to 160 amps. I still haven't hooked my Pecron back up since the new alternator install, but I also haven't gone camping with my van to need it yet.
I'm a little gun shy now. I will see what exactly the Pecron should be set at. I might need to put in beefier gauge wires to handle heavy loads (which is what a DC to DC charge to power station is). I don't want to waste another alternator.
@bdmenne I have only used it a few times only once idling for an hour I don't have it set to the max output I'm set to get roughly roughly 320 watts I'm using it on a Gen 2 Tacoma no problems most times I used it while driving usually solar is enough to power my pecron power system 2 180watt panels in series
I wish o could sleep there to the place is mind blowing its really nice place 😊😊
I kove that fact that you truly alone, no annoying pets.
Why do you love that?
@KimHawthorne-k1m because it gives you real time for yourself. One gets the chance to experience and appreciate true solitude, and you can actually focus on yourself. Amongst other things.
I agree, but figured stating that opinion would bring on the haters. The part about pets in such a small space is what unnerves me, the odors a pet produces, the shedding, the storage for supplies, etc, seems impractical to me. But that’s just my personal opinion-not shared by many.
Beautifully captured the day, good views
Voltage sensing relay and a 150 amp breaker with 1/0 cable to your battery from your truck battery you will charge at about 1000 watts to 80%
I love that place for travel camping
I’m new to your channel soon I will be doing the same live style .i love your videos .be safe out there !
That's awesome Cory! Welcome :)
Like the garlic plus seasoning. Thanks for the tip.
It is the beeeest
Get a bluetti dc1 charger - it can charge while you drive or idle the car and it can to up to 500 watts
Not long into your video (b4 your saying so.) I thought you might be 🍁 Canadian???
With your bottle of "Our Compliments" brand Olive Oil...
Enjoy your mobility in living. One day soon for I - I hope. Easily affordable in my early retirement!!!
I sure am! Good eye 😁
New subscriber here from the Philippines love watching your videos ❤
Haven't read many comments but look into a DC to DC charger then you only need to turn your engine on for charge.
Cheers
Beautiful view
It seems so peaceful
Excellent day chronicle. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for watching!
You are brave and amazing! 👍❤
Glad Oregon is treating you well 🤙🏼
It’s a wonderful place :)
I camped in my car everyday. It's nice in the summer and very complicated in winter
And Bluetti has theirs on sale right now!!!
They run so many sales, its wonderful 😀 Do you have one too Cheri?
@@MeganClaarke I have a Jackery 500 but really want to upgrade to a 2000!
many have a dc to dc charger installed which will charge your bluetti when you suv is running
Whew! more adventures
Mentally not in Canadian winter!!!
awesome. new mexico will be some of our future trips.
The SUV set up is nice. The dump truck is quite nice too.
I won't be going to the wild by myself . You never know what could happen
I live in a safe home in the high Mohave desert I woke up to a mountain lion in my yard. I'm not sure about all these women of all ages wanting to live in a van. Camping for a week or weekend is great but full time?
RV is more practical because that's what it's built for but I guess it's a disadvantage to getting up on some of these secluded mountain areas. I also understand the freedom part, this situation seems to be the norm.
Well Megan be safe and enjoy.
If you make your way to Lake Havasu City AZ we have tons of open BLM land with plenty of WiFi signal and all the conveniences of town at your fingertips
That's awesome. Thank you Bobby!
Wow great easy set up... cheers
New subbie, enjoyed watching 🌻❤️
Thank you Tara!🤗
In engine area is space for adding 2nd battery
NEW SUBSCRIBER I LOVED THIS VIDEO. VERY PEACEFUL 🎉
Awesome ❤
Man i just left Oregon beautiful place
My goodness! This one has a nice peach! Subbed
May God bless you and keep you safe in Jesus name Amen 🙏😊 🙏
Hi Megan, if you make it down to San Diego, California, I’ll show you my favorite spots.
She’s engaged .. get a girl
any charging port in your suv.. aside from your solar panel..
I'd be more prepared on even a short walk. Walking stick, bear spray. I've still got that boy scout be prepared in me. Especially if I was a young female. Watch your back side. Enjoy the views.
Thanks David. It is easy to get complacent. Good to be prepared, always!
Take care of yourself
I Love You
I hope I can go with you ❤
Nice video...
I hope you have window black out screens. You must be in AZ
Sure do! I use them in less private areas :)
Do hike with a strong protection, spray and iron?
Bear spray :)
It's magnificent
🌲🌳🌳🌴🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲🌲
Always be aware of your battery life. But I know you already know that.
I used to put tuna on my rice cakes!
Rice cakes are an underrated vessel for snacking!
Yur gorgeous 😍 stay safe be blessed 🙌 ❤
Your video is very good
NICE
Does your car ever die leaving the doors open? Do you unplug your battery? My battery died once and I had to have it jumped.
You look great 🌹
Awesome view
It was a great spot :)
@ absolutely
How can you compare living in a comfort of your home to living in a car. What’s your source of income ?
Is that Nora Jones music, if not please share who it is..i like the music.
The one lyrical song is Be the Cat by Kylie Dailey 🙂
Other tracks 🎶
While You Were Sleeping - Vincent & A Secret
One for the Books - Kevin Dailey
The Heart Knows - Luella Gren
Losing Track of Time - Gabriel Kelley
I live on top of a Mountain
🦁
🌊🐬🌅🏞️🗻🏔️🌈🌴⛲
The Lion of Mount Hope
Pedro from
South East
San Diego
Market Street
You're so cute! You make me want to live in a van!
Nice,,😊
You need window covers or do you have them?
I have some! :)
New subscribers 😊
Hello beautiful 🌹🌹🌹 be safe out there 🙏💯
is it dangerous to live in your by yourself?
Thats the advantage of van life..nice view❤❤❤