I’ve saved so much money for all the things I’ve really wanted to do that it’s been overall a pretty great experience. It won’t be forever but been really good so far. It’s definitely not for everyone but many many are where I live.
I’m 20 years old, and I have never lived somewhere where I was wanted. My moms, my dads, and my grandparents. There’s no where else I can go. I can’t afford to live anywhere or even move. My car is breaking and I don’t have the money to fix it. I have no choice
I have lived over 10 years in my Honda Element. 1. YMCA membership. 2. 5x5 storage area. 3. A PO Box. 4. A Coleman sleeping bag. 5. Access to a local park for daytime tailgate party/cooler/ sterno / small hibachi or Weber grill. . 6. A reputable, honest mechanic. 7. A positive attitude.
I was gonna say you need to lose your house you need to lose your job. You need to lose your friends and family. You need to lose touch with reality and was society and finally you need to lose personal safety.
@@annb2045 thank you, no matter what content I put out there to help others there are always closed minded, uneducated people who think their being comical. It’s difficult but I do my best to ignore their ignorance. Thank you for saying something though! I appreciate it!
That would probably price folks right out of the market. I enjoy seeing all the different ways people fill their essential needs in whatever vehicle they can afford. 😊
Im 64 and, as soon as my elderly mother dies, I will be homeless, so Im getting ready to live in my car. No rush, but I want to be ready, and I appreciate you so much.
Hey there thanks for the nice message. I think you really enjoy the freedom and adventure. Important to live somewhere with decent weather unless you just travel to those areas
Do you have anything productive to say or are you able to spew out negativity? If you do t like it don’t watch but keep your negativity to yourself. My video has helped a lot of people. What do you contribute but hate? Go away please!
Decades ago, I lived in my Toyota SR5 pickup under the canopy. I was attending a university and I had 2 jobs totalling 72 hours a week. I showered after school, and then went to work everyday. I dumpster dove for closed cell foam used in shipping containers of the pallet size. That was my mattress. I used plywood to cover the windows. I used a couple sheets and a sleeping bag. I had aa small cooler, a 1 gallon water jug, a flashlight, a line-up alarm clock and that was it. I lived in my truck for 2 years. I saved nearly $20k back in the early 1980s. Those were great days.
I know exactly what you mean about the foam. I had a job where it was used for padding inside of wooden crates. We would get crates in and they would throw the padding out. Every time I saw a piece that was big enough to cut into a 6 foot by three foot rectangle, I would grab it. I use it under my tent when I car camp. It replaces using a footprint and a sleeping pad. If it’s cold though I also use a sleeping pad inside the tent for double insulation. I think we ordered the foam from Uline or Grainger. It’s thicker and comfier than any sleeping pad you can buy, but too bulky for backpacking.
For anyone contemplating living in their vehicle, consider a Toyota hybrid. The AC works much like a house AC. The engine does not need to run all the time. The AC works off of electricity, not belt driven. The engine only needs to run when the larger hybrid battery needs recharging,which is for a little bit every fifteen minutes or so. A Sienna minivan would be a great choice.
I've been wondering how to stay cool when living in a vehicle. So does that mean the engine is turning on and off every 15 minutes? Is that hard on the engine?
@@ellenh278 A one-hour engine idle is equivalent to 30 miles of driving. Depending on how often the auto climate starts and shut off the engine, it might add a lot of idle miles on the car.
1. Baby wipes and 100% tea tree oil. 2. Merino wool clothing. It’s more expensive but in conjunction with the baby wipes and tea tree oil, enables one to go without bathing for a few/several days if need be. Cotton kills, but before it gets that bad, it contributes to stench. 3. Piss jug. I use a fluorescent yellow Nalgene, which allows for discrete disposal in any public place, and it looks completely different than any of my potable water containers. Regularly dose with vinegar. 4. Plastic shopping bag, or a gallon-sized Ziploc as an emergency repository for a deuce. Practice makes perfect. “Works in a pinch.” 5. “Forward-facing car cameras” discretely installed in a roof rack system, cargo box, solar panel rail, or even rain deflectors, plugged into a purpose-specific monitor allows for a quick look around. They’re dirt cheap. Spring for infrared to see well at night. 6. Minimal grey water tank from 4” PVC pipe, mounted under the vehicle. Mechanically open a valve, or actuate a solenoid to discretely drain. 7. Water tank from 4” PVC (potable) or 4” ABS (non-potable, solar heated) pipe, mounted or lashed to a roof rack system. 8. Conspicuously labeled “biohazard” diaper bags for stowing clothing/sleep system in plain sight. 9. Combo key safe, mounted or hung, hidden under the vehicle. Don’t presume they’re infallible. 10. Catalytic converter security stickers on the windows. 11. Blinking red LED mounted on dash or the front of the rear view mirror. 12. Barking dog file ready to play on interior Bluetooth speakers.
@@MarmaladeOutdoors Amazon is as good a source as anywhere else for “forward facing car cameras”, though I also compare to eBay. They’re not as common as back-up cams, but some back-up cams will allow image “flipping” and optional guide lines to provide forward facing operation. I’m mostly looking for favorable feedback that appears legit. I don’t have a favorite, though I own a number of them, which by now, may well have been superseded by superior products. A 3-channel dash cam with parking cam function can also work well, but I find a camera on each side of the vehicle, displayed split-screen on a cheap monitor very helpful when fully stealthy. I appreciate your content. I’m a long-trail hiker, and favor minimalist efficiency.
I recently started living in my car after the breakup of a long relationship. It’s been a truly freeing experience and since I do have a job and only 5 monthly bills, the amount of money I’ve been able to save is astounding. I live in MA so rent is just stupid. I currently sleep in a 2017 Ford Escape and once I pay it off I was thinking of upgrading to a bigger truck with a cap.
Right there with you man, I also live in MA. Landlord just sold my building a the new landlord is raising rent +$500. Making it a total of $1400 a month for a 1 bedroom. Currently doing all the research I can now to prepare to start living out of my car. Winter is going to be interesting but I'm not scared or worried. I work two jobs as is and it's still hard to make ends meet. Always been a survivor. I know I could work, work, work and still scrape by.. but I'm considering purposely going homeless, living out of my car and seeing how much money I can save in a year.
@@dimmadimsom Easy to calculate how much you'll be saving. $1400 x 12 months = $16,800. Plus whatever else expenses, like internet, trash, water, utilities (electric, gas)
I just break up of a 2 year relationship, I was living at her family house and now I am going to live at my suv , luckily I just replaced my Mustang convertible with Toyota SUV before then everything happened , and now my plan is sleep at car and do a lot of road trips. wish me luck :)
One thing I would add to your list of must-have is those little window awnings… I’m not sure what they’re called but I think they’re made to keep the rain out if you want the windows cracked. But what I like about them is that you can leave the windows cracked (because you’re secretly inside and wanting to be able to keep breathing oxygen) and no one can tell you’re in there! Of course, you need the blackout curtains/window coverings, too.
Thank you and I agree. I am making a second video to add to this 7 and I might add that to my list. I currently don’t have them but I want them so you may have helped me to finally buy them. Thx
@@l.a.v.alindysawesomevanadv3428 I’m about to post part two of this video with 7 more things and rain guards is one of them so I agree so check it out in the next day or two. Cheers
Indeed it is. Rents have skyrocketed in Vegas since the planned "demic," so I see many more "urban campers" all over town now. Add inflation, billions and billions in Ukraine war-funding, higher taxes and stagnant wages to it, and we got a real mess. Our wonderful, wise "leaders," though, (both parties) are living quite well... not in cars or on streets, but hey, they're "for the people," right?? Which people, IDK. 🙄
It’s really true, it’s not so much that they can’t afford to live in houses or apartments. The criteria to get into an apartment is ridiculous. At $20.56 an hour, I was told at several places that I did not make enough money for an apartment that was $1250 a month because they require three times the rent, now I’m renting a room with a bunch of people that don’t cleanup after themselves but I would so the same thing he’s doing if I had a car!
I was looking through listings for 'small offices' in my area and I came across a small office with a full bathroom for under three-hundred dollars a month and a larger office with a full bathroom and a galley kitchen for under five-hundred a month. I know many people can't afford it, but if you are staying in an area and working locally, renting a cheap office space might be a viable alternative to sleeping in your car and it solves the problem of needing an address. There are even cheaper offices in my area that are basically just a single room with a shared bathroom in a hallway. When I started my IT firm I used to pull all-nighters when it was busy. I would crash on a folding cot and cleanup in the bathroom. An aside, if you just look at the mainstream listings they rent/lease office space by the square ft generally, it takes some digging to find the one-off offerings usually by private owners.
I had a tiny office space in a sketchy neighborhood once. The owners were not keen on people staying overnight. It would be best to specifically ask if you could stay overnight in your office if a meeting runs late, or something. It would also be good to check out the space, looking at door configuration and cameras. My office was $300.00 a month. I had access to a few common bathrooms. I slept on the couch quite often. I had a back door, so my exit was not obvious in front.
Great video. I have been living in my Toyota Prius for seven years. Mostly in the Miami Beach Florida area. The hottest and most humid area of the country. But I can comfortably live this lifestyle anywhere because of climate control. I love LA fitness - for 10 dollars a month more than planet fitness, you get a pool, a hot tub and sauna
Hey there thanks for the nice message. Doesn’t it get too humid and warm there in the summer? I’m lucky enough to live near the beach on the west coast so we don’t have any humidity. Cheers
When I vacation in Florida, I spend the whole week parked in the Hampton Inn parking lot, a different one every day. I get up in the morning and eat the free breakfast at the Hampton Inn, then take some food to go.
I have started living in my 2006 Kia sorento for the last 2 weeks and have been researching the nomadic lifestyle and for the last year. I’ve found it to be very liberating and rewarding to be outside the box. It’s not for everyone but for me personally it’s a good fit. Thanks for sharing your journey. I’m in Northern California and will be hitting the road south shortly
I have a Kia Soul, been car living for almost 2 and a half years. Had 2 recent break in attempts at night, while sleeping, but thankfully, they ran off when I started my engine. I hope your Kia isn't one of the models targeted by thieves who are doing the "TikTok Kia Challenge."
@@popjaw1andOnly If anyone is going to live in their car Id highly recommend a gun license you never know what can happen and a gun is a good deterrent for robbers. Thankfully I live in an area with low crime rates so I don't have to worry about it.
I have heard some people who are in the trucking industry driving supplies across state lines for Walmart and other places like that have a similar experience. Might want to consider it, you could earn some cash while you travel.
Been a trucker for years, so I know a lot of tricks on living out of a vehicle, but lost my career this year and everything I had over the past few years after a blood clot. I'm staying in my brother's basement at the moment, but he's selling the place and I'll be headed in this direction of living if something doesn't happen. God bless for your info and tips! PS...If there are any renters on here who decided it was fine to raise the rents by hundreds per month on people then shame on you. You're part of this problem of why lots of people can no longer have an actual roof overhead
Lots of good information there! I'm not PLANNING on living in my car, BUT am researching just in case that ever becomes necessary with the way the rental prices are increasing. It was nice hearing a video from someone closer to my age and how they make it work.
The enemy of souls knows his time is short. This is a spiritual battle over worship. Specifically the day of rest. Remember… the fourth commandment KJV reminds us of Genesis 2:2&3. Jesus is our example. EVEN the forty days after His resurrection!
For a car toilet, i use a dry system -- cat litter! It works for us, too. And of course, baby wipes as well as toilet paper. Physical address: USPS and UPS both can be used; you have to tell Post Office, and they have you fill out paperwork to do this.
Great basic advice! Another basic is both an emergency toilet bucket (for those midnight calls of nature when going into the gym is too conspicuous) and baby wipes.
Snowbird, that definitely seems to be a pattern.... I live in a house so this is just fantasy right now. However I am gathering info should the need arise. But I took notice many people started out as campers who took it to the next level, then eventually got a couple acres that nobody can chase them from. Perfect.
I too feel like this is inevitable. My dad says he’ll leave me the house but there’s little time no chance of keeping it. I’ll have to sell it if the bank doesn’t seize it first. I’m still a student in college but I have no hope for the future so I think I’ll be lucky to live outta my 20 year old van instead of in the street at this point.
I believe this is where my next “residence” will be late next year. My rent has been raised $175/month over the last 2 years. After my lease expires next October, I won’t be able to afford to live here. I moved here because it was the cheapest, available apartment that I could find in a “safe” area. I’m a single senior living on a fixed income.
Been doing this for ten years. Your tips are right on. Black out windows. If poor, use two cheap sleeping bags inside each other. With a fleece blanket inside. With a beanie on your head youre good down to the tens °F
Having recently bought a Bronco Sport, I was thrilled to see this video. After test driving the car, I put down the back seats, got in and made sure I’d fit sleeping in it. Salesperson thought I was crazy but car camping was my vision with the car. Thanks for all of this information. It’ll come in handy as I continue to get ready to hit the road.
I use a mail forwarding service, IPostal, which has a physical address at Staples. I pay $ 10 a month, it's great! It's free to pick up mail, and generally cost $2-4 to have a few letters combined in a large envelope and mailed to wherever I am at the moment.
Thank you I’ll definitely check that out and I’m sure others appreciate this… so what do they have physically to keep your mail? I’m assuming you pick the location nearest you but do they have boxes for you or?
@Marmalade Outdoors they have large "cubbies" for big stuff and I the letters were kept in a locked cabinet. I had expected a more secretive place, sort of modern dungeon-like ;-) , but it's just behind the printing desk at Staples. If you want them to, they will open sensitive mail, scan it for you, then shred it.
Informed Delivery - Mail & Package Notifications is a nice service provided by USPS where you'll get an email notification daily about what will be arriving in your mail.
I lived in 2005 Honda Element for 4 months while transitioning and it was great little living space, kept minimalist approach foam mattress, cooler, curtain. Slept mostly at hospitals, motels, casinos and Walmart. I did rent a 4x6 public storage for my belongings.
I have been doing this in my Toyota Prius V ( wagon) for the past 8 years and I use thick blanket ( in winters ) hang along the windows that keeps light off and also keeps me warm. and in summers I use very thin black screen ( which I got at Walmart in fabric section) and hang along the windows which keeps the light off and also it keeps inside cool. During day time it's just normal car without any tinted glasses. I am always either at work most of the time and sometimes at the tennis courts for practice and occasionally at libraries. I am inside the car only when I have to sleep which is for about 8 hours. I have Planet fitness black card membership and they are everywhere I travel once in a while. For water, I just buy 24 pack bottle water from Walmart. Since I save half of my pay on rent, I don't mind spending on things like water bottles which is more comfortable. I got used to this lifestyle so much and sleeping in a small space makes it easier to keep it clean and tidy. I am looking for a few acres of land ( from all the money I saved on rent) somewhere 2 hours away from the beach and grow some vegetables and chill out.
Man you sound like you have it dialed in. Buying some land is also my dream… somewhere beautiful and quiet just outside of a small town. I’d love a small cabin, a workshop and room to grow some food… that’s all I would need so I completely get where you’re coming from.
@@cynthiacrawford6147 Thank you so much. I'll check on that. I was looking around Atmore AL. Do you know what would be the average price per acre in Southeast Georgia ?
@@andykumar4103 it would vary on where just as other places. Less known of areas can be 5 an acre or less depending on factors. Do yiur research on swamp or. Flood areas
I do the same thing with my coolers. I have two of them in my minivan between the middle and rear seats primarily to fill the space so I can leave the rear seats up and fold down the middle seats for a level-ish place to sleep. Another good tip for people living this lifestyle is to keep baby wipes as a backup plan for times when they can't get a shower.
1. 5 gallon jugs, dark 2. Hot sun put them on the roof 3. No sun boil water about a gallon and a half per Jerry can 4. Open two doors flip a tarp over 5. Take shower Doesn't work in the den of winter. That was supposed to be dead but let's let the auto correct do its thing. Works pretty well everywhere in the desert Southwest even in winter. You can find a 50° day every 3 days. If you were in town there is surely a dead end you can park with the doors facing the right way.
I like videos like this because, I don't live in my vehicle full time, however I enjoy traveling and cutting out expensive hotels from time to time helps me have more money for other things.
It is actually quite stunning that no one has designed a cheap living module for installation onto the back of a pickup truck. Which include a bed & toilet. It will sure sell very well.
I car camp and for sleeping the air mattress has to be inflated daily and this is a pain. I went to four inch memory foam and it is much more comfortable and needs no daily maintenance. You can get thicker memory foam but it is more expensive. Sleep is very important so spend the money to get consistently good sleep. 😊
I’ve tried three different ones and I bottomed out on all of them meaning they didn’t support my weight and my hips were through and on the hard surface underneath. The other thing is even though you can roll foam up it generally takes up a lot of space in the car when not being used. My air mattress comes with a pump sack so I never have to blow it it. Connect to the mattress, fill the sack with air and SQEEZE it in. Takes about 3 minutes but is easy
A backpacking air mattress like his will only deflate a little in cold weather and Amazon sells this tiny usb rechargeable pumps that are great also for deflating, a backpacking air mattress most likely has better insulation than a memory foam, his is R5 that’s very good insulation and you can pack it down to around 6” by 3” round, no weight. I have a Big Agnes that’s kept me toasty in 30 degrees in a tent and can go lower temps, of course a good sleeping bag goes hand to hand but also packs down to almost nothing, Sea to Summit (his) has quality merchandise and I’m sure he uses them for backpacking too, he probably already had them as he mentioned he’s also a backpacker.
If you camp in freezing temperatures, both memory foam and air mattresses are problematic. Memory foam gets hard when it is cold, so you lose you cushioning as well as having a chilly mattress. Air mattresses (except self-inflating ones) provide no insulation, and if you are using one on a cold surface it allows the cold straight through. Self inflating mattresses, closed cell foam, or even traditional foam are far better in cold weather.
foam only lasts about five years (depending on weight) before it starts going downhill. Best mattresses are dunlop latex. Will last practically forever without sagging. Con are they are heavy and expensive. Also for winter and summer comfort you can buy 'medicinal' sheepskins. Had to get one for my ailing mother and thus inherited it. I can attest they are very comfortable to lie on. Use a sheet during the summer months, but are okay to lay on even without.
Plastic Folgers coffee cans with a plastic bag liner makes a great emergency porta-potti. The can stays clean for other uses, like draining the ice chest.
I lived in my car for a few weeks when I was between living quarters. The 24/7 gym was the most valuable thing I invested in during that period of time. I was living in a motorhome and moved into a small studio apartment and during the interim, I lived in my car. I've thought of how I would sleep in my car if I ever had another emergency, but it seems impossible to do with a 65 lb dog. I didn't have that last time. There is a lot of room in the back of my PT Cruiser though because said dog, ate the two back seats, which I had to remove so, voila! We have a camper!
Hi Melinda no the tape is stuck to the silver reflectix material so the sticky side is not out? The black duct tape is stuck to it so the black none stick side is facing out which makes it look black from the outside
I agree, with the rate of the cost of everything it’s driving people out of their homes and apartments. Eventually we will have a ton of empty real estate because the masses can’t afford it anymore. Don’t know the solution though
I made my window covers almost the exact same way and I love them. I drew pictures all over the insides of them too. They're super cool. Thank you for sharing.
I did the UPS box for a bit because it’s PO number looks like an apt. I did come across a couple systems that would NOT accept it knowing somehow through computer system it wasn’t a residence. Thx for sharing! Love hearing and learning about this.
2023-08-28 ... Here are some ideas ... I've located a downtown Business Parking Building ($ 100 flat monthly fee), four stories ... electronic pass, clean, good weather protection ... Showers? I joined a Planet Finess gym ($25 a month) in a 24/7 facility ... Eating, specifically microwaving and refrigerator ... try a downtown "Shared Office" place ... Best of Luck ... Stay in Prayer ✝️
Just found out the black card from planet fitness oNLY allows you to visit a different planet fitness for a maximum of 11 days per month. And you can’t change clubs till you’ve completed 90 days at the club you are currently in contract with. And the black card is now $25 a month in CA.
These are without a doubt the most helpful tips that I have seen so far in terms of what you need to car camp. Many other influencers spend time on trivial and unnecessary items or topics, but this is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!
If you make some kind of cozy for your cooler, the ice will last longer. It could be as simple as sitting it on a comforter and wrapping it around the top. Probably help if you just sit it over the top.
I have been living in my car for over a month, I have a well good salary of 60k a year without paying for rent I am able to save up so much money in order to buy me a house in the future, I used to pay 2800 a month for rent now I'm paying 200 a month for a gym membership ship an a parking garage, that has a bathroom as well
Very good. All the things I came up with. Also I used UPS mailbox as my address for years, To the point it was on my drivers license. That was 7 plus years
wow i'm looking to move into my car too as i knew about the gym membership to shower but seeing your sleeping setup and and cooler answers a lot of my questions thank you for making this video i'm so glad to have found this channel ❤ love from hawaii
Thanks for sharing your tips in such a frank and direct manner. The van life space is teeming with youngsters who are very adept and passionate about “tricking out” their mobile quarters, but sometimes they don’t always share the nuts and bolts of life on the road. Best wishes to you, I am a new subscriber. Will be looking at your other content now.
Hey just saw your message and thank you and glad you found this video helpful and thanks a lot for subscribing. Have another helpful video on living in your car coming very soon so keep a look out for that! Cheers
Thank you for this video. I will be checking out the other ones. I am 65 and just got divorced so I will be living in my car for a while to get my debts under control. You should hear the comments I get when I say I will be living in my car!! There is such a stigma about it.
When I was living in my car, I was constantly hassled by cops. I’d park in public places and caused no problems, but I was constantly being questioned. Pissed me off.
They got nothing better to do, the cops harassing you. . If you stay local, talk to some of the body shop owners in your area....for a small weekly fee (or whatever) they might could let you camp overnight...you'd look like any other car on the lot and could actually act as security on the premises......
That's odd. Usually they leave you alone. Especially if you're stealth at night. You probably weren't stealth during the day, so they saw you hanging out. I usually park in parking lots or hang out at coffee shops until it's time to go to bed.
I use UPS for an Addy. It's great as a physical Addy but also if I'm in the other end of the country they will send me my mail to another UPS or even general mail delivery to the post office. Good choice of items btw.
With the address issue the gov (ssa) knows what addresses are residential or not so you need a residential address if you are collecting benefits. Most states allow SNAP/foodstamps recipients to use non residential addresses. Also if you are living full time in your vehicle you might be considered homeless and could qualify for state benefits. And some churches will have a system set up so you can recieve mail through them for all your legal and gov stuff.
Thank you for that Pablo, I heard from a person here that in my state of Californian there have been activist fighting for the rights of the homeless. Not to discriminate against people that are homeless and have no address so supposedly a USPS PO Box is supposed to work but I’ve heard from others that it doesn’t. Homeless people have to be allowed to do their legal business even if they don’t have a residential address like vote? I have to look more into this though. Have you heard anything about this?
I work in a church and even when the church is willing to let you use their address for your home address, the "system" will figure out it is not a residence. However you CAN receive mail there if they allow. I wonder what traveling nurses do.
I didn’t have any of those options. I was 18 and had a 73 Mach 1 Mustang . Not a lot of trunk space or back seat for that matter. Fortunately I only had to live out of it for about a month before a good friend let me move in with him but it didn’t last long. Anywho , that was back in 1980 !
If the front passenger seat is taken out, you may fit your cassette toilet too, although you will use it for no 1, than no 2. Less smelly , work disposing...
Straight to the point and great info! I'm ready to make the move (even though I did it one summer several years ago, this video would have come in handy then. I'm done trying to make someone else rich. I'll be able to work here in Cali while saving a ton of money and exploring the outdoors. Love it, now I just need to buy a Bronco lol
Do you have a way to place a queensize sheet across both head rests and stretch it to the rear tailgate and secure it there with some type of magnetic clip. IF you do that you'd sort of create what a 4 poster bed would have in the olden days to capture your body heat and make a micro climate area under that sheet..
@@l.s.5471 many emergency blankets (mylar) make crinkly noises that prevent people from falling asleep, also they trap moisture inside the containment area of the blanket , so you're wet.
Interesting! I bought a small electric blanket at Walmart that can be plugged into my Jackery. Have never used it yet but It's my backup for the potential 3-dog night.
You got good ideas! I’m not planning on doing this anytime soon, but if I had to, I’m keeping your video! Thanks.. right now I’m in Palm Springs CA and I’m pretty lucky in my little home here, very inexpensive. Thanks😊
Hey I’m glad you enjoyed it and you’re in a nice area. I would think it gets to hot to live in the car in the summer there? I’m right by the coast where it’s much cooler but yeah the high heat would make it very uncomfortable to live in if you ask me
In the uk i brought a hearse as its known and converted it into camper and used a coffin to sleep in at night ,id always fall dead fast at night ,i lined the head lining with fabric of the cosmos and LED lights
Also, a basic toolkit (with vice grips, which are indispensable!), a little first-aid kit, investing in a multi-tool will pay for itself, and a tire patch kit because a leak or flat tire is a show-stopper when you live in your vehicle!
Very helpful information, thank you. The recent L.A. fires are a wake up call that I need to be prepared to live out of my car in case I'm forced to evacuate; but where to go? The last time San Diego had a blackout (about 10 years ago) I waited for hours before being able to drive home. On the way I saw several cars on the side of the freeway that had run out of gas because traffic is SO bad in these types of situations, it can take 20-30 minutes just to travel a few blocks. Scary!
I have a dry cabin with outhouse and I will have well water...will not have septic... getting gym membership because love to work out and love hot showers. Will also fill and drink 32 oz water through time there and refill on the way out.
Good video! For a Virtual Address the best option should be a Commercial Mail Receiving Address or CMRA. The price ranges between 10 to 35 US depending on the space available for packages and many other available options. Keep up the good work! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
@MarmaladeOutdoors My pleasure! Thanks a lot to you for taking the time to share all your knowledge and personal experiences. Many blessings! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Great inspiration video for the rest of that stay in car too❤ I’ve been doing it for 2 years in 17 titan 4 door and have a great job. No drug or drinking for me just working to get fam legal residency in USA im a citizen but need money for petition so instead of paying rent here in CA 😊 best wishes and blessings ✌🏼
If your in cold temps your going to need a good heat source and a backup. I.E. Diesel Heater, Wood Stove and or Propane Heater. Some find a heated blanket is also useful to them.
I tried using those inflatable mattresses, but both got holes pretty quick, no matter how careful was, and the second one was a thick, queen sized camping type, with a built-in motor for inflate/deflate! So then I bought a 200 dollar memory foam mattress and customized it down to exactly fit in the back, with the rear passenger seatbacks folded down (I own a Kia Soul). I never have passengers and never will. I just tell friends that my car cannot sit anyone but me. I'm alone, with no kids, pets, or girlfriends, so it works. An unzipped, spreadout sleeping bag is my bedsheet unless in the winter, if I want to zip it up and be inside it. I have a quilt, 2 pillows, window blinds for all windows, made from black posterboard, and both sides covered in black duct tape to prevent tearing, and cut to fit exactly each window without having to duct tape them in place. The blinds on all the rear windows and back hatch are permanent, while the ones for the front two windows are removable, so I can easily put up/take down as needed. That way, I don't need to put up 6 to 8 coverings every night. I like your small recharging battery device idea! I either recharge my things at work when I need to, or while driving/sitting with engine running. But one of those would be good to keep my phone/alarm clock and my wireless AM/FM/Weather alert radio charged while sleeping. Since I live in the SW, where summer high temps run 110 degrees or higher for 3-4 months straight, I gave up on the ice cooler idea and use it for storage on the passenger floorboard. I keep non-melting snacks and bottled waters and other essentials, and I freeze my waters at work 5-6 days a week, and they stay icy cold until at least, bedtime and longer in winter. Looking for a way to keep the interior cool at night in the summer, while sleeping, withOUT having to run engine and AC. Already tried one of those small, recharge-able "misting fans," but they require icy water, which makes the interior moist and will lead to mold, eventually. Plus, they aren't strong enough to cool the entire passenger compartment, but only kept my face a little cooler, but the rest of me was still hot and sweaty. I have no idea what else to try, and there might not be anything else but running engine w/AC. This burns a lot of fuel over the course of 8 or 9 hours, as you can guess, and the wear and tear on my car's cooling system is brutal, too. If anyone has any other tips on interior cooling, without engine on, I'm definitely listening. Thanks!
Popjaw as far as cooling you car goes I just saw a product you might be interested in. I can’t tell you from experience if it works well but definitely worth looking into. Eco flow wave 2
@@kentkohlbrecher2888 Thanks! Yeah, I'll definitely check it out. If I end up trying it, and that depends on size, cost, etc... I'll post a review here. Appreciate your help!
@@kentkohlbrecher2888 So I went on their website and watched the video. For my current vehicle, it's too big and not feasible. But next year I might be in the market for a larger vehicle, maybe even a decent used RV. I'd definitely buy this unit if I can upgrade from this Kia. Thanks again for the recommendation.
People may want to try a local recreation center, where I’m at it’s free to use the gyms as long as you sign up with the city. They give you a tag to scan and can use it wherever in the city, they also usually have showers for free.
I totally enjoyed your video. I am not a "car dweller," but I live vicariously through you and some others that show what they are doing. I like the fact that you live more simply, without special tech and setups that are often difficult to operate or even understand. I like your cooler, your simple bed setup, and your charging unit. I like that there are more products coming out now that run on batteries, and I believe that they will expand and improve batteries to more effectively operate different appliances. The fact that you stay pretty much in the area helps, and it's California, so weather extremes are not so much your challenge. I did subscribe. Thank you.
Hey Lynn thank you so much for that great message. Yes I eventually want a van which will most likely have more technology than I have now but you are right, I purposefully keep it simply and easy. Thank you for watching and subscribing. More videos like this to come
Im heading backwards in life and anticipating living in my car. Had a Full-time job, significant other, house, pets, and its now dwindled to this decision and im not really wanting to ask for handouts or live with family. I want to discover more for myself and improve for the next chapter in life.
I went from 24hs to PF because 1- the privacy that give me the PF change room. 2- in this area 24hs isn’t open 24 hours. 3- For the price, $25 black card allows me to use any PF nation wide.
Thank you and I may just go check them out in my local area and maybe switch over especially for them being all over the country. Are many of them 24 hrs in your area? Thanks a lot
I need to heavily insulate my 4Runner from extreme cold and be able to heat my body safely. It would also be great to lightly armor the doors and put impact-resistant glass in the windows and windshield.
I’m 18 getting kicked out of my moms house living in my 2008 Mazda 3 for about a month maybe 2. Driving across the country too. Getting a spot though with my best friends in a month or 2 can’t wait to look back on this comment grind starts tomorrow 😢🫠👀
Thank you Jerry and yes it’s surprising how many people are opting for this. Of course it might depend where you live in terms of temps and weather. I live where the weather is generally great so that’s a bonus and makes this lifestyle a little more enjoyable
I prefer black photo background cloth, both for the black side of my reflectix/black window covers, and for (doubled/tripled up) as a curtain behind the front seats making the front seats appear to be unoccupied with just blackness behind them. For a curtain rod that flexes up to the roof, I use a heavy 48 inch aluminum construction ruler made by Empire. It makes shortening it to length easy, I flex it between the tops of the seatbelt retractor trim, making sure not to let it down into the mechanism, by drilling holes in it to put solid copper wire through as a stop.
Thank you for the tips. I tried the black duct tape method. I ended up tossing all the covers out because the adhesive smell was so strong. The smell might have decreased over time with more patience.
One thing I bought and I’m sure you have something similar is a Zoleo so I can text by satellite from my phone or call for help when cell phone service isn’t available. The Garmin is what I’m thinking you probably have. I picked Zoleo because of mounting capabilities in my minivan. I think it is essential if you are in states that don’t have great cell phone service. Another expense of course.
Hey there, yeah I have the garmin Inreach mini that I purchased for when I backpacking but yes it can of course double for car/van life. It’s super important in this lifestyle for sure
Almost half a million people watched this video contemplating or having to live in thier car, like myself. I could cry
Shoot I’m not crying lol I’m excited 😂 $2500 saving from living a rent free life.
@@characteristicallyauthenticexactly 🤣
Maybe some of them just want to travel.
I’ve saved so much money for all the things I’ve really wanted to do that it’s been overall a pretty great experience. It won’t be forever but been really good so far. It’s definitely not for everyone but many many are where I live.
I’m 20 years old, and I have never lived somewhere where I was wanted. My moms, my dads, and my grandparents. There’s no where else I can go. I can’t afford to live anywhere or even move. My car is breaking and I don’t have the money to fix it. I have no choice
I have lived over 10 years in my Honda Element. 1. YMCA membership. 2. 5x5 storage area. 3. A PO Box. 4. A Coleman sleeping bag. 5. Access to a local park for daytime tailgate party/cooler/ sterno / small hibachi or Weber grill. . 6. A reputable, honest mechanic. 7. A positive attitude.
Terry, that is really awesome… seriously. Have you had any problems with using a PO Box as your address? I hear this can be tough
@@MarmaladeOutdoors nope. Just the cost goes up and up.
5x5 storage area? Like stationary or in my car
@@supazsa stationary
@@supazsa Stationary. I pay $60 /month. I keep my clothes and dishes, n stuff in there
I’m going through a divorce. I have no friends or family. I want to keep my job. This is so helpful. Thank you so much!
Stay strong man, you’ll make your way through it
1) Gym Membership 0:29
2) Water 2:51
3) Window Coverings 4:01
4) Cooler 7:32
5) Battery Charger 8:51
6) Sleep Setup 10:43
7) Physical Mailing Address 13:13
Love this list! Thank you so much!
Thank you and I’m glad it help you some!
Hello Mr harris . You forgot the most imp one. The weeeed
I was gonna say you need to lose your house you need to lose your job. You need to lose your friends and family. You need to lose touch with reality and was society and finally you need to lose personal safety.
Do your homework! There are people who live this way for years and are very happy.
@@annb2045 thank you, no matter what content I put out there to help others there are always closed minded, uneducated people who think their being comical. It’s difficult but I do my best to ignore their ignorance. Thank you for saying something though! I appreciate it!
Manufacturers need to start building cars with a bed, kitchen and toilet in them.
No kidding, or at least the option to have it in your car when you buy it… same with vans
That would probably price folks right out of the market. I enjoy seeing all the different ways people fill their essential needs in whatever vehicle they can afford. 😊
Sickening but true
I think they call them camper vans.
Or offer a model that leaves the back empty or carpeting only so it can be customized
Im 64 and, as soon as my elderly mother dies, I will be homeless, so Im getting ready to live in my car. No rush, but I want to be ready, and I appreciate you so much.
Hey there thanks for the nice message. I think you really enjoy the freedom and adventure. Important to live somewhere with decent weather unless you just travel to those areas
where are you at on collecting social security?
Is your mom in a house and can you squat in it
@@samanthathompson9812 Why in this position? Come on!
Do you have anything productive to say or are you able to spew out negativity? If you do t like it don’t watch but keep your negativity to yourself. My video has helped a lot of people. What do you contribute but hate? Go away please!
Decades ago, I lived in my Toyota SR5 pickup under the canopy. I was attending a university and I had 2 jobs totalling 72 hours a week. I showered after school, and then went to work everyday. I dumpster dove for closed cell foam used in shipping containers of the pallet size. That was my mattress. I used plywood to cover the windows. I used a couple sheets and a sleeping bag. I had aa small cooler, a 1 gallon water jug, a flashlight, a line-up alarm clock and that was it. I lived in my truck for 2 years. I saved nearly $20k back in the early 1980s. Those were great days.
👏👏👏👏👏good job 20k!!!
Nice. Thanks for sharing!! ❤
You, Sir, have my deep respect, not least because there is no hint of whining or regret over your choices.
I know exactly what you mean about the foam. I had a job where it was used for padding inside of wooden crates. We would get crates in and they would throw the padding out. Every time I saw a piece that was big enough to cut into a 6 foot by three foot rectangle, I would grab it. I use it under my tent when I car camp. It replaces using a footprint and a sleeping pad. If it’s cold though I also use a sleeping pad inside the tent for double insulation. I think we ordered the foam from Uline or Grainger. It’s thicker and comfier than any sleeping pad you can buy, but too bulky for backpacking.
I joined the Defence Force in the 1990s had a bed, food, water and shelter and saved $20k in 6 months. 😅😅😂
In the 90s you could work a regular 9-5 job and afford an apartment. Today they’re almost the cost of a home mortgage.
Exactly and where I live you almost either have to make six figures to just afford an apartment or have multiple roommates
Investment bankers have been buying up properties, even trailer parks. It’s driven up prices of housing.
Hopefully Jan20th we’ll get some relief
rent here in cali is $3000.00 a month
Purposefully price out ownership so investors can buy cheap
For anyone contemplating living in their vehicle, consider a Toyota hybrid. The AC works much like a house AC. The engine does not need to run all the time. The AC works off of electricity, not belt driven. The engine only needs to run when the larger hybrid battery needs recharging,which is for a little bit every fifteen minutes or so. A Sienna minivan would be a great choice.
I've been wondering how to stay cool when living in a vehicle. So does that mean the engine is turning on and off every 15 minutes? Is that hard on the engine?
Subaru Outback
@@ellenh278 A one-hour engine idle is equivalent to 30 miles of driving. Depending on how often the auto climate starts and shut off the engine, it might add a lot of idle miles on the car.
1. Baby wipes and 100% tea tree oil.
2. Merino wool clothing. It’s more expensive but in conjunction with the baby wipes and tea tree oil, enables one to go without bathing for a few/several days if need be. Cotton kills, but before it gets that bad, it contributes to stench.
3. Piss jug. I use a fluorescent yellow Nalgene, which allows for discrete disposal in any public place, and it looks completely different than any of my potable water containers. Regularly dose with vinegar.
4. Plastic shopping bag, or a gallon-sized Ziploc as an emergency repository for a deuce. Practice makes perfect. “Works in a pinch.”
5. “Forward-facing car cameras” discretely installed in a roof rack system, cargo box, solar panel rail, or even rain deflectors, plugged into a purpose-specific monitor allows for a quick look around. They’re dirt cheap. Spring for infrared to see well at night.
6. Minimal grey water tank from 4” PVC pipe, mounted under the vehicle. Mechanically open a valve, or actuate a solenoid to discretely drain.
7. Water tank from 4” PVC (potable) or 4” ABS (non-potable, solar heated) pipe, mounted or lashed to a roof rack system.
8. Conspicuously labeled “biohazard” diaper bags for stowing clothing/sleep system in plain sight.
9. Combo key safe, mounted or hung, hidden under the vehicle. Don’t presume they’re infallible.
10. Catalytic converter security stickers on the windows.
11. Blinking red LED mounted on dash or the front of the rear view mirror.
12. Barking dog file ready to play on interior Bluetooth speakers.
Love these suggestions thank you. Where would I look for those cameras? Amazon or? Any specific brands you like?
@@MarmaladeOutdoors Amazon is as good a source as anywhere else for “forward facing car cameras”, though I also compare to eBay. They’re not as common as back-up cams, but some back-up cams will allow image “flipping” and optional guide lines to provide forward facing operation. I’m mostly looking for favorable feedback that appears legit. I don’t have a favorite, though I own a number of them, which by now, may well have been superseded by superior products. A 3-channel dash cam with parking cam function can also work well, but I find a camera on each side of the vehicle, displayed split-screen on a cheap monitor very helpful when fully stealthy.
I appreciate your content. I’m a long-trail hiker, and favor minimalist efficiency.
Pvc causes issues with micro plastics. Even potable...Unless you are using to shower outdoors.
@@dylan.-6527Suggest an alternative solution then. Otherwise, you're just complaining, or worse...judging.
All Very Crafty and Clever.
I recently started living in my car after the breakup of a long relationship. It’s been a truly freeing experience and since I do have a job and only 5 monthly bills, the amount of money I’ve been able to save is astounding. I live in MA so rent is just stupid. I currently sleep in a 2017 Ford Escape and once I pay it off I was thinking of upgrading to a bigger truck with a cap.
Right there with you man, I also live in MA. Landlord just sold my building a the new landlord is raising rent +$500. Making it a total of $1400 a month for a 1 bedroom. Currently doing all the research I can now to prepare to start living out of my car. Winter is going to be interesting but I'm not scared or worried. I work two jobs as is and it's still hard to make ends meet. Always been a survivor. I know I could work, work, work and still scrape by.. but I'm considering purposely going homeless, living out of my car and seeing how much money I can save in a year.
I’m literally in the exact same situation, but I’m free, truly free. I wish happiness and peace to you man.
@@dimmadimsom Easy to calculate how much you'll be saving. $1400 x 12 months = $16,800. Plus whatever else expenses, like internet, trash, water, utilities (electric, gas)
me too i also in MA. and my rent is 1,300 a month. I am seriously considering leaving my apartment and living in my 2011 grand Cherokee
I just break up of a 2 year relationship, I was living at her family house and now I am going to live at my suv , luckily I just replaced my Mustang convertible with Toyota SUV before then everything happened , and now my plan is sleep at car and do a lot of road trips. wish me luck :)
One thing I would add to your list of must-have is those little window awnings… I’m not sure what they’re called but I think they’re made to keep the rain out if you want the windows cracked. But what I like about them is that you can leave the windows cracked (because you’re secretly inside and wanting to be able to keep breathing oxygen) and no one can tell you’re in there! Of course, you need the blackout curtains/window coverings, too.
Thank you and I agree. I am making a second video to add to this 7 and I might add that to my list. I currently don’t have them but I want them so you may have helped me to finally buy them. Thx
I have them…window deflector and they are a must…I also have mesh window screens.
I apologize for Google torturing my speech I'd like to sue them there was going to correct but I don't know how to edit my UA-cam commentary
Rain guards
@@l.a.v.alindysawesomevanadv3428 I’m about to post part two of this video with 7 more things and rain guards is one of them so I agree so check it out in the next day or two. Cheers
It's so sad that people cannot afford to live in houses anymore.
Indeed it is. Rents have skyrocketed in Vegas since the planned "demic," so I see many more "urban campers" all over town now. Add inflation, billions and billions in Ukraine war-funding, higher taxes and stagnant wages to it, and we got a real mess. Our wonderful, wise "leaders," though, (both parties) are living quite well... not in cars or on streets, but hey, they're "for the people," right?? Which people, IDK. 🙄
Yes and it's all been planned!! 💥🎯
It’s really true, it’s not so much that they can’t afford to live in houses or apartments. The criteria to get into an apartment is ridiculous. At $20.56 an hour, I was told at several places that I did not make enough money for an apartment that was $1250 a month because they require three times the rent, now I’m renting a room with a bunch of people that don’t cleanup after themselves but I would so the same thing he’s doing if I had a car!
😢💯💔
Don't vote to put idiots in office. Americans deserve everything they get.
I was looking through listings for 'small offices' in my area and I came across a small office with a full bathroom for under three-hundred dollars a month and a larger office with a full bathroom and a galley kitchen for under five-hundred a month. I know many people can't afford it, but if you are staying in an area and working locally, renting a cheap office space might be a viable alternative to sleeping in your car and it solves the problem of needing an address. There are even cheaper offices in my area that are basically just a single room with a shared bathroom in a hallway. When I started my IT firm I used to pull all-nighters when it was busy. I would crash on a folding cot and cleanup in the bathroom. An aside, if you just look at the mainstream listings they rent/lease office space by the square ft generally, it takes some digging to find the one-off offerings usually by private owners.
Thought about that and many of them be empty nowadays. Surely a few at it alteady😅
I had a tiny office space in a sketchy neighborhood once. The owners were not keen on people staying overnight. It would be best to specifically ask if you could stay overnight in your office if a meeting runs late, or something. It would also be good to check out the space, looking at door configuration and cameras. My office was $300.00 a month. I had access to a few common bathrooms. I slept on the couch quite often. I had a back door, so my exit was not obvious in front.
what city are you in ?
I slept on concrete for almost a year, so a decent vehicle would have been a big improvement.
Thank you for being complete, speaking at a good pace and not being too repetitive.
Thank you I appreciate that!
Great video. I have been living in my Toyota Prius for seven years. Mostly in the Miami Beach Florida area. The hottest and most humid area of the country. But I can comfortably live this lifestyle anywhere because of climate control. I love LA fitness - for 10 dollars a month more than planet fitness, you get a pool, a hot tub and sauna
Hey there thanks for the nice message. Doesn’t it get too humid and warm there in the summer? I’m lucky enough to live near the beach on the west coast so we don’t have any humidity. Cheers
do you usually keep the car/ac running at night ?
I would need ac
@@Deborah986 when the car isn’t running I have a fan and hopefully a breeze 😃
How can you stand to sleep in your car when it's so hot and humid there? I have two fans in my car but I'm curious about how you keep cool ?
When I vacation in Florida, I spend the whole week parked in the Hampton Inn parking lot, a different one every day. I get up in the morning and eat the free breakfast at the Hampton Inn, then take some food to go.
That's called stealing,
💥☺️😂
I have started living in my 2006 Kia sorento for the last 2 weeks and have been researching the nomadic lifestyle and for the last year. I’ve found it to be very liberating and rewarding to be outside the box. It’s not for everyone but for me personally it’s a good fit. Thanks for sharing your journey. I’m in Northern California and will be hitting the road south shortly
I have a Kia Soul, been car living for almost 2 and a half years. Had 2 recent break in attempts at night, while sleeping, but thankfully, they ran off when I started my engine. I hope your Kia isn't one of the models targeted by thieves who are doing the "TikTok Kia Challenge."
@@popjaw1andOnly If anyone is going to live in their car Id highly recommend a gun license you never know what can happen and a gun is a good deterrent for robbers. Thankfully I live in an area with low crime rates so I don't have to worry about it.
@@ryanj357 Yeah, well I have to wait a couple years, unfortunately. I got pepper gel and an 8 inch blade, for the time being.
I have heard some people who are in the trucking industry driving supplies across state lines for Walmart and other places like that have a similar experience. Might want to consider it, you could earn some cash while you travel.
Take showers at truck stops and laundry
Been a trucker for years, so I know a lot of tricks on living out of a vehicle, but lost my career this year and everything I had over the past few years after a blood clot. I'm staying in my brother's basement at the moment, but he's selling the place and I'll be headed in this direction of living if something doesn't happen. God bless for your info and tips!
PS...If there are any renters on here who decided it was fine to raise the rents by hundreds per month on people then shame on you. You're part of this problem of why lots of people can no longer have an actual roof overhead
Lots of good information there! I'm not PLANNING on living in my car, BUT am researching just in case that ever becomes necessary with the way the rental prices are increasing. It was nice hearing a video from someone closer to my age and how they make it work.
Yep , me too
I also am researching alternative life styles the way rents, etc have been increasing so much so fast!
The enemy of souls knows his time is short. This is a spiritual battle over worship. Specifically the day of rest. Remember… the fourth commandment KJV reminds us of Genesis 2:2&3. Jesus is our example. EVEN the forty days after His resurrection!
For a car toilet, i use a dry system -- cat litter! It works for us, too. And of course, baby wipes as well as toilet paper.
Physical address: USPS and UPS both can be used; you have to tell Post Office, and they have you fill out paperwork to do this.
Great basic advice! Another basic is both an emergency toilet bucket (for those midnight calls of nature when going into the gym is too conspicuous) and baby wipes.
Thank you and thank you for that idea. I’m planning on doing a part two to this so I may add it to that! Thx
Yes. Actually I would say having a potty bucket in the car is first priority.
Yes a video on that please
Shocked you can sleep in there. Gives hope. Thanks. I thought for sure it’d be too short.
I just barely fit trust me lol.. thankfully I and most people sleep in the fetal position so you don't need as much room
I like how theres tutorials on yt on how to be homeless. Thanks wef very cool
You’re VERY welcome!
I love the transitions many people go through. Hiking and tent camping to car camping to vanlife to acreage. That's what I did, too!
Isn’t that interesting, of course that’s my dream as well… little land, place to grow old in
Snowbird, that definitely seems to be a pattern....
I live in a house so this is just fantasy right now. However I am gathering info should the need arise.
But I took notice many people started out as campers who took it to the next level, then eventually got a couple acres that nobody can chase them from. Perfect.
Snowbird: It looks like a lot of California's have beat you to this trend. Take a look at the Utube. The videos on blocks of people living in tents.
@@henryottis295
No one except the tax man
Love seeing it ❤
This is where it's all headed, I'll be joining this new normal soon...
I know… for me it’s an experiment but there’s at least ten people I know of whom I work with that are living out of their car just to afford life.
I’m sry
It’s not easy nor tolerable too long
I too feel like this is inevitable. My dad says he’ll leave me the house but there’s little time no chance of keeping it. I’ll have to sell it if the bank doesn’t seize it first. I’m still a student in college but I have no hope for the future so I think I’ll be lucky to live outta my 20 year old van instead of in the street at this point.
It's because of the rising cost of living. Can easily save over 2500 per month just by living in car
I believe this is where my next “residence” will be late next year. My rent has been raised $175/month over the last 2 years. After my lease expires next October, I won’t be able to afford to live here. I moved here because it was the cheapest, available apartment that I could find in a “safe” area. I’m a single senior living on a fixed income.
Been doing this for ten years. Your tips are right on.
Black out windows. If poor, use two cheap sleeping bags inside each other. With a fleece blanket inside. With a beanie on your head youre good down to the tens °F
A comfortable outside chair.
Having recently bought a Bronco Sport, I was thrilled to see this video. After test driving the car, I put down the back seats, got in and made sure I’d fit sleeping in it. Salesperson thought I was crazy but car camping was my vision with the car. Thanks for all of this information. It’ll come in handy as I continue to get ready to hit the road.
Wait LA fitness is $10 i have planet fitness and EOS Fitness
I live in my city I work so I don’t roam everywhere
Did you pay the bidin upcharge?
He probably thought you are testing if you can fit a dead body in there and he probably reported you already lol
The salesmans' monthly bills are probably crazier
@@Melanatedminimalistit is $10 for 1 location. You did not listen.
I use a mail forwarding service, IPostal, which has a physical address at Staples. I pay $ 10 a month, it's great! It's free to pick up mail, and generally cost $2-4 to have a few letters combined in a large envelope and mailed to wherever I am at the moment.
Thank you I’ll definitely check that out and I’m sure others appreciate this… so what do they have physically to keep your mail? I’m assuming you pick the location nearest you but do they have boxes for you or?
@Marmalade Outdoors they have large "cubbies" for big stuff and I the letters were kept in a locked cabinet. I had expected a more secretive place, sort of modern dungeon-like ;-) , but it's just behind the printing desk at Staples. If you want them to, they will open sensitive mail, scan it for you, then shred it.
@@MarmaladeOutdoors I wanted a forwarder located in my state, and I think this was the only one, which is 1.5 hours from my home. but
Informed Delivery - Mail & Package Notifications is a nice service provided by USPS where you'll get an email notification daily about what will be arriving in your mail.
This is what I have.
Thank you for this video
I'm homeless and can't afford rent in my city. This is how I'm going to live. I needed the pointers. Thank you
Hey so sorry to hear about that but so glad they will help you. It’s a great way to save money so you can get back on your feet. Good luck!
@MarmaladeOutdoors thank you. Everything always works out. I've always been interested in the van life anyway. I'm excited to try it out
I lived in 2005 Honda Element for 4 months while transitioning and it was great little living space, kept minimalist approach foam mattress, cooler, curtain. Slept mostly at hospitals, motels, casinos and Walmart. I did rent a 4x6 public storage for my belongings.
I loved my Honda Element
what other cars would u recommend?
@tamaracoaa hybrid sienna is the best for both room and 24/7 climate control
@@tamaracoaa Ford flex is super roomy can find used for about $7k
I have been doing this in my Toyota Prius V ( wagon) for the past 8 years and I use thick blanket ( in winters ) hang along the windows that keeps light off and also keeps me warm. and in summers I use very thin black screen ( which I got at Walmart in fabric section) and hang along the windows which keeps the light off and also it keeps inside cool. During day time it's just normal car without any tinted glasses. I am always either at work most of the time and sometimes at the tennis courts for practice and occasionally at libraries. I am inside the car only when I have to sleep which is for about 8 hours. I have Planet fitness black card membership and they are everywhere I travel once in a while. For water, I just buy 24 pack bottle water from Walmart. Since I save half of my pay on rent, I don't mind spending on things like water bottles which is more comfortable. I got used to this lifestyle so much and sleeping in a small space makes it easier to keep it clean and tidy. I am looking for a few acres of land ( from all the money I saved on rent) somewhere 2 hours away from the beach and grow some vegetables and chill out.
Man you sound like you have it dialed in. Buying some land is also my dream… somewhere beautiful and quiet just outside of a small town. I’d love a small cabin, a workshop and room to grow some food… that’s all I would need so I completely get where you’re coming from.
Respect...u do great...I wonder j don't get crap from coworkers for van life style?
@@cynthiacrawford6147 Thank you so much. I'll check on that. I was looking around Atmore AL. Do you know what would be the average price per acre in Southeast Georgia ?
@@andykumar4103 it would vary on where just as other places. Less known of areas can be 5 an acre or less depending on factors. Do yiur research on swamp or. Flood areas
Stick to your plan, just make sure the land can be used the way you want and everything is legal.
I do the same thing with my coolers. I have two of them in my minivan between the middle and rear seats primarily to fill the space so I can leave the rear seats up and fold down the middle seats for a level-ish place to sleep. Another good tip for people living this lifestyle is to keep baby wipes as a backup plan for times when they can't get a shower.
1. 5 gallon jugs, dark
2. Hot sun put them on the roof
3. No sun boil water about a gallon and a half per Jerry can
4. Open two doors flip a tarp over
5. Take shower
Doesn't work in the den of winter. That was supposed to be dead but let's let the auto correct do its thing. Works pretty well everywhere in the desert Southwest even in winter. You can find a 50° day every 3 days. If you were in town there is surely a dead end you can park with the doors facing the right way.
I like videos like this because, I don't live in my vehicle full time, however I enjoy traveling and cutting out expensive hotels from time to time helps me have more money for other things.
They are such a waste. Can,t sleep w noisy air and they e like padded cells
2 years now in my Dodge Caravan, paying off debt, great job, and having fun traveling around.
It is actually quite stunning that no one has designed a cheap living module for installation onto the back of a pickup truck. Which include a bed & toilet. It will sure sell very well.
I car camp and for sleeping the air mattress has to be inflated daily and this is a pain. I went to four inch memory foam and it is much more comfortable and needs no daily maintenance. You can get thicker memory foam but it is more expensive. Sleep is very important so spend the money to get consistently good sleep. 😊
Yes indeed. I got one of those memory foam mattress that roll up much better than a air mattress that might get a air leak
I’ve tried three different ones and I bottomed out on all of them meaning they didn’t support my weight and my hips were through and on the hard surface underneath. The other thing is even though you can roll foam up it generally takes up a lot of space in the car when not being used. My air mattress comes with a pump sack so I never have to blow it it. Connect to the mattress, fill the sack with air and SQEEZE it in. Takes about 3 minutes but is easy
A backpacking air mattress like his will only deflate a little in cold weather and Amazon sells this tiny usb rechargeable pumps that are great also for deflating, a backpacking air mattress most likely has better insulation than a memory foam, his is R5 that’s very good insulation and you can pack it down to around 6” by 3” round, no weight. I have a Big Agnes that’s kept me toasty in 30 degrees in a tent and can go lower temps, of course a good sleeping bag goes hand to hand but also packs down to almost nothing, Sea to Summit (his) has quality merchandise and I’m sure he uses them for backpacking too, he probably already had them as he mentioned he’s also a backpacker.
If you camp in freezing temperatures, both memory foam and air mattresses are problematic. Memory foam gets hard when it is cold, so you lose you cushioning as well as having a chilly mattress. Air mattresses (except self-inflating ones) provide no insulation, and if you are using one on a cold surface it allows the cold straight through. Self inflating mattresses, closed cell foam, or even traditional foam are far better in cold weather.
foam only lasts about five years (depending on weight) before it starts going downhill. Best mattresses are dunlop latex. Will last practically forever without sagging. Con are they are heavy and expensive. Also for winter and summer comfort you can buy 'medicinal' sheepskins. Had to get one for my ailing mother and thus inherited it. I can attest they are very comfortable to lie on. Use a sheet during the summer months, but are okay to lay on even without.
Plastic Folgers coffee cans with a plastic bag liner makes a great emergency porta-potti. The can stays clean for other uses, like draining the ice chest.
Great idea thank you!
I lived in my car for a few weeks when I was between living quarters. The 24/7 gym was the most valuable thing I invested in during that period of time. I was living in a motorhome and moved into a small studio apartment and during the interim, I lived in my car.
I've thought of how I would sleep in my car if I ever had another emergency, but it seems impossible to do with a 65 lb dog. I didn't have that last time. There is a lot of room in the back of my PT Cruiser though because said dog, ate the two back seats, which I had to remove so, voila! We have a camper!
Two small dogs, a cat, and a bird worked for my mom and I. We even had a stranded tourist for 3 months in the back seat lol
How can anyone stay legal though? Without using someone else's address?
Reminds me of the homeless firefighters channel. He lived in his truck while saving for a house. Lots of humor and helpful hints there too.
I hadn’t heard about putting black duct tape on the reflectix before. Great idea. And adding the handles ❤
Does the sun melt the glue on duct tape and make a sticky mess?
@@MelindaMc I know I'm late to the party but you can always retape and double tape it if it comes off. Gorilla tape is the best if your area has it
Hi Melinda no the tape is stuck to the silver reflectix material so the sticky side is not out? The black duct tape is stuck to it so the black none stick side is facing out which makes it look black from the outside
This is a new America now...
Things are going to get worse before they get better....
I agree, with the rate of the cost of everything it’s driving people out of their homes and apartments. Eventually we will have a ton of empty real estate because the masses can’t afford it anymore. Don’t know the solution though
So true! 😢
I frankly don't think things will get better.
We had a world war to get us out of our last depression.
I strongly doubt that will be the case again.
I'm sure the elites love these videos
No, they actually don't.
I made my window covers almost the exact same way and I love them. I drew pictures all over the insides of them too. They're super cool.
Thank you for sharing.
We are in San Diego. This will be us in the coming weeks. This is beyond helpful. Thank you so much.
Currently planning out options to live in my Toyota hatchback. I’m determined to make it work for a few months.
I did the UPS box for a bit because it’s PO number looks like an apt. I did come across a couple systems that would NOT accept it knowing somehow through computer system it wasn’t a residence. Thx for sharing! Love hearing and learning about this.
Considering the massive databases on Google and such, I'm surprised it worked at all this century.
We used a UPS Store box as our shipping address for several years. No worries about porch pirates or samples from my husband's work being missed.
Thinking about relocating and living in my car for a little while. Definitely need a fresh start and I thank you for the pointers!
2023-08-28 ... Here are some ideas ...
I've located a downtown Business Parking Building ($ 100 flat monthly fee), four stories ... electronic pass, clean, good weather protection ...
Showers? I joined a Planet Finess gym ($25 a month) in a 24/7 facility ...
Eating, specifically microwaving and refrigerator ... try a downtown "Shared Office" place ...
Best of Luck ... Stay in Prayer ✝️
Just found out the black card from planet fitness oNLY allows you to visit a different planet fitness for a maximum of 11 days per month. And you can’t change clubs till you’ve completed 90 days at the club you are currently in contract with. And the black card is now $25 a month in CA.
Wow thank you. I was told it was anywhere and unlimited….
Great video! As a newbie I got a lot of valuable tips to help me conquer the car life. Thanks Mike!
Hey Tracie, thanks for watching and I’m glad this video has helped you a little. I’ve really enjoyed this journey and I hope you so as well
You and me both .
These are without a doubt the most helpful tips that I have seen so far in terms of what you need to car camp. Many other influencers spend time on trivial and unnecessary items or topics, but this is exactly what I was looking for. Thank you!
Thanks so much and so glad it was helpful… just like to keep it simple
If you make some kind of cozy for your cooler, the ice will last longer. It could be as simple as sitting it on a comforter and wrapping it around the top. Probably help if you just sit it over the top.
Yeah, or better yet wrap the cooler with so many blankets that it takes up ALL the space in the back of the vehicle. 🤠
Thank you good idea
@@WindsongSoundBath 😂
@@whosaidthat4299 :)
Thank you for sharing
It’s really important to save your money
Living in your car is a wonderful way to get to your next home
I have been living in my car for over a month, I have a well good salary of 60k a year without paying for rent I am able to save up so much money in order to buy me a house in the future, I used to pay 2800 a month for rent now I'm paying 200 a month for a gym membership ship an a parking garage, that has a bathroom as well
I live in a Tahoe 2004
Very good. All the things I came up with. Also I used UPS mailbox as my address for years, To the point it was on my drivers license. That was 7 plus years
Thank you for the tips on the window coverings. I use the black foam board from the dollar tree. It worked awesome.
I’ve seen people that use that but it can tear fairly easy. Reflected is also an insulation layer so in the winter it keeps your car a little warmer
I looked everywhere! Dollar Tree? Go figure…
i like the foam board idea - i still have not made my black outs and its been 30 days in
wow i'm looking to move into my car too as i knew about the gym membership to shower but seeing your sleeping setup and and cooler answers a lot of my questions thank you for making this video i'm so glad to have found this channel ❤ love from hawaii
Thanks for sharing your tips in such a frank and direct manner. The van life space is teeming with youngsters who are very adept and passionate about “tricking out” their mobile quarters, but sometimes they don’t always share the nuts and bolts of life on the road. Best wishes to you, I am a new subscriber. Will be looking at your other content now.
I enjoy watching the real van/car living vs the just for clicks people. It's more helpful.
Hey just saw your message and thank you and glad you found this video helpful and thanks a lot for subscribing. Have another helpful video on living in your car coming very soon so keep a look out for that! Cheers
Thank you for this video. I will be checking out the other ones. I am 65 and just got divorced so I will be living in my car for a while to get my debts under control. You should hear the comments I get when I say I will be living in my car!! There is such a stigma about it.
When I was living in my car, I was constantly hassled by cops. I’d park in public places and caused no problems, but I was constantly being questioned. Pissed me off.
That does such and technically if you’re in public, not breaking a law they’re not allowed to question you.
They got nothing better to do, the cops harassing you. . If you stay local, talk to some of the body shop owners in your area....for a small weekly fee (or whatever) they might could let you camp overnight...you'd look like any other car on the lot and could actually act as security on the premises......
That's odd. Usually they leave you alone. Especially if you're stealth at night. You probably weren't stealth during the day, so they saw you hanging out. I usually park in parking lots or hang out at coffee shops until it's time to go to bed.
I drive to rest stops on highways.
Never been bothered by a cop there.
What city and state?
I use UPS for an Addy. It's great as a physical Addy but also if I'm in the other end of the country they will send me my mail to another UPS or even general mail delivery to the post office. Good choice of items btw.
With the address issue the gov (ssa) knows what addresses are residential or not so you need a residential address if you are collecting benefits. Most states allow SNAP/foodstamps recipients to use non residential addresses. Also if you are living full time in your vehicle you might be considered homeless and could qualify for state benefits. And some churches will have a system set up so you can recieve mail through them for all your legal and gov stuff.
Thank you for that Pablo, I heard from a person here that in my state of Californian there have been activist fighting for the rights of the homeless. Not to discriminate against people that are homeless and have no address so supposedly a USPS PO Box is supposed to work but I’ve heard from others that it doesn’t. Homeless people have to be allowed to do their legal business even if they don’t have a residential address like vote? I have to look more into this though. Have you heard anything about this?
Homeless shelter let u used there address to get mail also 💯
I work in a church and even when the church is willing to let you use their address for your home address, the "system" will figure out it is not a residence. However you CAN receive mail there if they allow. I wonder what traveling nurses do.
@@MarmaladeOutdoors Also these days you cannot rent a USPS mailbox unless you have a physical address somewhere. It is about preventing terrorism.
@@susanmichelfelder3912 most have a permanent address...either their own or family...I was in the medical field!
I didn’t have any of those options. I was 18 and had a 73 Mach 1 Mustang . Not a lot of trunk space or back seat for that matter. Fortunately I only had to live out of it for about a month before a good friend let me move in with him but it didn’t last long. Anywho , that was back in 1980 !
Thanks for this information, very helpful. May need it very soon; can't afford current rental, leaving this week... 🙏
If the front passenger seat is taken out, you may fit your cassette toilet too, although you will use it for no 1, than no 2. Less smelly , work disposing...
Straight to the point and great info! I'm ready to make the move (even though I did it one summer several years ago, this video would have come in handy then. I'm done trying to make someone else rich. I'll be able to work here in Cali while saving a ton of money and exploring the outdoors. Love it, now I just need to buy a Bronco lol
One of the questions you answered for me was the address especially for a Driver Licence. That makes sense. Thank you.
Do you have a way to place a queensize sheet across both head rests and stretch it to the rear tailgate and secure it there with some type of magnetic clip. IF you do that you'd sort of create what a 4 poster bed would have in the olden days to capture your body heat and make a micro climate area under that sheet..
Hey Mark that’s an interesting idea… may have to try that thank you!
Why go thru all that unnecessary stuff when you can just get those emergency blankets that retain body heat?!?
@@l.s.5471 many emergency blankets (mylar) make crinkly noises that prevent people from falling asleep, also they trap moisture inside the containment area of the blanket , so you're wet.
Interesting! I bought a small electric blanket at Walmart that can be plugged into my Jackery. Have never used it yet but It's my backup for the potential 3-dog night.
as a senior who needs a less expensive place to live, I am thinking about living in my suv or a simple van. I value this info highly! thank you...
You got good ideas! I’m not planning on doing this anytime soon, but if I had to, I’m keeping your video! Thanks.. right now I’m in Palm Springs CA and I’m pretty lucky in my little home here, very inexpensive.
Thanks😊
Hey I’m glad you enjoyed it and you’re in a nice area. I would think it gets to hot to live in the car in the summer there? I’m right by the coast where it’s much cooler but yeah the high heat would make it very uncomfortable to live in if you ask me
In the uk i brought a hearse as its known and converted it into camper and used a coffin to sleep in at night ,id always fall dead fast at night ,i lined the head lining with fabric of the cosmos and LED lights
Wow are you serious? If so you’re braver than I!
@@MarmaladeOutdoors deadly serious , my name is frank en stein,
Are u a vampire 🦇😂
Also, a basic toolkit (with vice grips, which are indispensable!), a little first-aid kit, investing in a multi-tool will pay for itself, and a tire patch kit because a leak or flat tire is a show-stopper when you live in your vehicle!
VISE*
Thise are 2 completely different things
Very helpful information, thank you. The recent L.A. fires are a wake up call that I need to be prepared to live out of my car in case I'm forced to evacuate; but where to go? The last time San Diego had a blackout (about 10 years ago) I waited for hours before being able to drive home. On the way I saw several cars on the side of the freeway that had run out of gas because traffic is SO bad in these types of situations, it can take 20-30 minutes just to travel a few blocks. Scary!
Volvo wagon Camping is Fun. It is Therapeutic after The COVID-19 Pandemic. Just make sure to pick the best parking lots possible.
I have a dry cabin with outhouse and I will have well water...will not have septic... getting gym membership because love to work out and love hot showers. Will also fill and drink 32 oz water through time there and refill on the way out.
As someone wanting to start car life this is helpful ❤
Hey there thank you and that’s what I intended it for. I hope it helps everyone!
Good video! For a Virtual Address the best option should be a Commercial Mail Receiving Address or CMRA. The price ranges between 10 to 35 US depending on the space available for packages and many other available options. Keep up the good work! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Thanks for the great information!
@MarmaladeOutdoors My pleasure! Thanks a lot to you for taking the time to share all your knowledge and personal experiences. Many blessings! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽
Finally a car living video with the same car I have! Thanks!
Hey there and really? Hope it helped, nice car right? I’m enjoying mine.
Great inspiration video for the rest of that stay in car too❤ I’ve been doing it for 2 years in 17 titan 4 door and have a great job. No drug or drinking for me just working to get fam legal residency in USA im a citizen but need money for petition so instead of paying rent here in CA 😊 best wishes and blessings ✌🏼
Soon, I’m going on my first weekend car camping adventure!! I can’t wait!! Thank you for your awesome video!! ❤
Hey there you’re very welcome and thank you for watching. I’m excited for you.. I hope you have an awesome time!
If your in cold temps your going to need a good heat source and a backup. I.E. Diesel Heater, Wood Stove and or Propane Heater. Some find a heated blanket is also useful to them.
I tried using those inflatable mattresses, but both got holes pretty quick, no matter how careful was, and the second one was a thick, queen sized camping type, with a built-in motor for inflate/deflate! So then I bought a 200 dollar memory foam mattress and customized it down to exactly fit in the back, with the rear passenger seatbacks folded down (I own a Kia Soul). I never have passengers and never will. I just tell friends that my car cannot sit anyone but me. I'm alone, with no kids, pets, or girlfriends, so it works. An unzipped, spreadout sleeping bag is my bedsheet unless in the winter, if I want to zip it up and be inside it. I have a quilt, 2 pillows, window blinds for all windows, made from black posterboard, and both sides covered in black duct tape to prevent tearing, and cut to fit exactly each window without having to duct tape them in place. The blinds on all the rear windows and back hatch are permanent, while the ones for the front two windows are removable, so I can easily put up/take down as needed. That way, I don't need to put up 6 to 8 coverings every night.
I like your small recharging battery device idea! I either recharge my things at work when I need to, or while driving/sitting with engine running. But one of those would be good to keep my phone/alarm clock and my wireless AM/FM/Weather alert radio charged while sleeping. Since I live in the SW, where summer high temps run 110 degrees or higher for 3-4 months straight, I gave up on the ice cooler idea and use it for storage on the passenger floorboard. I keep non-melting snacks and bottled waters and other essentials, and I freeze my waters at work 5-6 days a week, and they stay icy cold until at least, bedtime and longer in winter.
Looking for a way to keep the interior cool at night in the summer, while sleeping, withOUT having to run engine and AC. Already tried one of those small, recharge-able "misting fans," but they require icy water, which makes the interior moist and will lead to mold, eventually. Plus, they aren't strong enough to cool the entire passenger compartment, but only kept my face a little cooler, but the rest of me was still hot and sweaty. I have no idea what else to try, and there might not be anything else but running engine w/AC. This burns a lot of fuel over the course of 8 or 9 hours, as you can guess, and the wear and tear on my car's cooling system is brutal, too.
If anyone has any other tips on interior cooling, without engine on, I'm definitely listening. Thanks!
Popjaw as far as cooling you car goes I just saw a product you might be interested in. I can’t tell you from experience if it works well but definitely worth looking into. Eco flow wave 2
@@kentkohlbrecher2888 Thanks! Yeah, I'll definitely check it out. If I end up trying it, and that depends on size, cost, etc... I'll post a review here. Appreciate your help!
@@popjaw1andOnly sounds good I was checking it out. Hobotec on you tube does a pretty good review
@@kentkohlbrecher2888 So I went on their website and watched the video. For my current vehicle, it's too big and not feasible. But next year I might be in the market for a larger vehicle, maybe even a decent used RV. I'd definitely buy this unit if I can upgrade from this Kia. Thanks again for the recommendation.
Reflectix is your answer, to block out heat. Make 1 side silver to reflect heat, 1 side black for stealth at night.
People may want to try a local recreation center, where I’m at it’s free to use the gyms as long as you sign up with the city. They give you a tag to scan and can use it wherever in the city, they also usually have showers for free.
I totally enjoyed your video. I am not a "car dweller," but I live vicariously through you and some others that show what they are doing. I like the fact that you live more simply, without special tech and setups that are often difficult to operate or even understand. I like your cooler, your simple bed setup, and your charging unit. I like that there are more products coming out now that run on batteries, and I believe that they will expand and improve batteries to more effectively operate different appliances. The fact that you stay pretty much in the area helps, and it's California, so weather extremes are not so much your challenge. I did subscribe. Thank you.
Hey Lynn thank you so much for that great message. Yes I eventually want a van which will most likely have more technology than I have now but you are right, I purposefully keep it simply and easy. Thank you for watching and subscribing. More videos like this to come
I will keep it low tech also in my truck bed raised shell. I don't want to be surrounded be electrical currents.
skip the air mattress. Hit a harbor freight and get a couple moving blankets. Very thick and sturdy.
So how would two “sturdy” blankets be more comfortable than an air mattress?
@@MarmaladeOutdoors just easier to store and handle.
It’s about comfort and sleeping well for me so I’m good with an air mattress
Having a big network of like minded people would be helpful finding the areas that have resources and good weather conditions .
Im heading backwards in life and anticipating living in my car. Had a Full-time job, significant other, house, pets, and its now dwindled to this decision and im not really wanting to ask for handouts or live with family. I want to discover more for myself and improve for the next chapter in life.
I went from 24hs to PF because 1- the privacy that give me the PF change room. 2- in this area 24hs isn’t open 24 hours. 3- For the price, $25 black card allows me to use any PF nation wide.
Thank you and I may just go check them out in my local area and maybe switch over especially for them being all over the country. Are many of them 24 hrs in your area? Thanks a lot
@@MarmaladeOutdoors here all of them are 24hs.
I need to heavily insulate my 4Runner from extreme cold and be able to heat my body safely. It would also be great to lightly armor the doors and put impact-resistant glass in the windows and windshield.
I’m 18 getting kicked out of my moms house living in my 2008 Mazda 3 for about a month maybe 2. Driving across the country too. Getting a spot though with my best friends in a month or 2 can’t wait to look back on this comment grind starts tomorrow 😢🫠👀
Be careful!!
Can you give me an update. I'm in that same situation. And I'm stressing, will life get better. I'm wondering will this nightmare ever end.
Update. Did it work out?
Hope everything's on the up and up now!!
Great tips! Thank you, I'm seriously considering the same lifestyle.
Thank you Jerry and yes it’s surprising how many people are opting for this. Of course it might depend where you live in terms of temps and weather. I live where the weather is generally great so that’s a bonus and makes this lifestyle a little more enjoyable
I prefer black photo background cloth, both for the black side of my reflectix/black window covers, and for (doubled/tripled up) as a curtain behind the front seats making the front seats appear to be unoccupied with just blackness behind them. For a curtain rod that flexes up to the roof, I use a heavy 48 inch aluminum construction ruler made by Empire. It makes shortening it to length easy, I flex it between the tops of the seatbelt retractor trim, making sure not to let it down into the mechanism, by drilling holes in it to put solid copper wire through as a stop.
Smart call about blocking out light coming into your car
Thank you for the tips. I tried the black duct tape method. I ended up tossing all the covers out because the adhesive smell was so strong. The smell might have decreased over time with more patience.
12:29 Looks like you're well past laundry day! :-)
Lol definitely. I rotate the pillow cases and did after filming this but should of before hand. Thanks for watching though!
One thing I bought and I’m sure you have something similar is a Zoleo so I can text by satellite from my phone or call for help when cell phone service isn’t available. The Garmin is what I’m thinking you probably have. I picked Zoleo because of mounting capabilities in my minivan. I think it is essential if you are in states that don’t have great cell phone service. Another expense of course.
Hey there, yeah I have the garmin Inreach mini that I purchased for when I backpacking but yes it can of course double for car/van life. It’s super important in this lifestyle for sure
You can also take showers and do things at truckstops or probably park near truckers or they pull off and sleep