Should I Give Up on
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- Опубліковано 14 жов 2024
- #vanlife #coffeechat
Should I give up on vanlife?
In this Coffee Chat episode, we discuss some of the reasons why I am living in a van. And why so many people encourage me to give up vanlife.
But should we take advice from strangers? Should we give advice to others? In my opinion, our life experiences shift our perceptions. If you haven’t walked a mile in my shoes, hopefully this chat will clear up some misconceptions.
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My name is Scott and in 2015, I bought a Ram ProMaster City to live in. Even though I didn’t know much about RV’s and campervans, I set about building the van out as a minivan camper. And in April of 2016, I moved into my minivan full time.
Over the years, I’ve learned you don’t need to have a big skill set to build your own campervan. And that living as a minimalist and utilizing solar power can be a less expensive way to live. I’ve also learned that a minivan can be a very comfortable home.
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He’s doing the same thing we all are trying to do : finding a way to life comfortably and enjoy being alive
I love your candor and sincerity about your van life. I think that some people really want to impose their values and life styles on you, but we know what’s right for us. I enjoy your channel immensely and want to thank you.
Thanks Gypsy
You are always clear that the van life is good for you. There are ups and downs no matter where you live, thank you for always reporting openly and honestly. Love it.
Wow. That was a real scare. You know, you are not living in your van alone. Many of us are living the van life vicariously through you. And we’re not ready to give up this life style. So just hang in there, Scott; we’re all doing fine and enjoying our van life style, whether in reality or vicariously. 🤗
✌🏼
💜 I am happy for you that you are living the life that you want to live. I thought it was interesting when you were talking about housing owning a home, renting a home, renting rooms from friends and also when you own a home how much money you were paying comparative to your income to own that home. You also mentioned something about being stuck that is so true and so many ways stuck financially, but also stuck with if you wanted to make a career change or do something different. You’re always stuck with this piece of property that doesn’t always sell as quickly as you need it to or for the amount of money that you deserve from it. The life is very appealing to many of us because you can get up and go whenever you want. You can explore near and far and your home is where you land. So yay for you, Scott! Another thing I always chuckle when you say you are middle-aged and I think today you said you’re more than middle-aged. I always chuckle about this cause I have no idea anymore. What middle-aged even is people are living longer and longer than we ever have before wishing you to continue your journey with Health and joy!🎉
The reason I watch your channel is the simplicity of your lifestyle.
I'm so glad you haven't thrown in the towel. We get to watch your experiences. Thanks!!!
Happy to know you are following along. Thanks Marne
Scott, you’re an inspiration to all of us that follow you because you’re real. No fluff. No gimmicks. There’s plenty of those out there. You my friend are unique in that you’re real. Don’t ever change. ❤
Thanks Jean
You're living it all "your way", which is EXACTLY the way it should be. What "the other" thinks ... let him go his own way, and don't be distracted by his words. You're an inspiration to most of us. Keep on, keeping on! :)
How is it anyone else's business how you live your life ?????? You do what makes you happy and fck anyone that says different. If it makes them uncomfortable they don't need to watch. I envy your freedom and your honesty.
you've made it this far,,, without listening to the noise of others,,, good,,,! cheers on the coffee!
Hi there! I totally understand why you like van life! I bought an RV, it’s got everything I need to eat, sleep, shower and amenities. The one thing I love the most is feeling like I’m getting a warm, cozy hug when I shut my door to the outside world😁
I have been following you for years. I just retired, sold my house and moved into my Ford Transit Connect. You Scott are one of the people who have inspired me. Thank you so much for being real.
Thanks Ida. I’m so happy for you!
You look totally happy to me! Maybe that’s a problem for others, I’m glad you are just keep on the path you enjoy!
I agree with you, if anything the way i see how you live your life is just reality, which other channels dont show. Your life seems to be extremely flexible, free and comfortable. Very cool how your able to live your life in a custom way, designed for you specifically. Majority of ppl just cant do that, which is what makes it so cool.
Exactly. .i live in a small van like yours in the UK for 5 yrs now myself and I absolutely love it. Great channel sir.
Hi Scott, Every living arrangement has its ups and downs. Thats just life. Live your best life the way you see it. ❤❤
Scott,
It’s your choice period.
I find your life choice interesting.
It’s annoying when people comment on the way they want you to live. I see you as being happy with your life. I look forward to van life. I really appreciate the true reality you show in your videos. Continue living YOUR best life👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
After 53 years in a "house" of all kinds, working 40-80 hours a week? My last 5+ years in a van has been beautiful!
Just keep being happy! 👍
Amen! We never own anything except the clothes on our back and then only if you didn’t use a charge card
Nailed it! Every lifestyle has pluses and minuses.....
Some people just don't like to hear that.....they just want to be cheerleaders for one particular lifestyle. Glad you are honestly saying, this is what's it's like....
Yes and yes. Thank you for your candor. Sticks and bricks or living in a tiny, tiny home on wheels - there are discomforts and inconveniences either way. Aren’t we blessed to have a shelter, however we define it? If you are safe, warm and dry, nourished, comfortable and loved - it’s all good.
Well said.
Enjoyed your coffee chat..You do you Scott...Take Care Lucy X
I enjoyed this conversation, Scott. I concur on all points of why you (we) live the van life. I enjoyed and loved my lives as a homeowner in Texas and (a condo) in Maui but they were rather expensive lives: upkeep, electric bills and occasional improvements. When my wife passed away in June I moved out of our home (3br1 1/2ba) and sold or donated everything except what I needed to live in a van. At 74 I don't require much to survive. It's been almost 4 months and I love this nomadic lifestyle. My "backyard" changes almost daily as do my neighbors. I have met some of the finest people who also enjoy their van's, pick up campers, SUV's and RV's. I think you do a superb job of communicating the imperfections we experience in our tiny homes on wheels. My biggest gripe is the cost of ⛽ in California.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts on this topic. You probably spoke for the vast majority of van lifers. I have and will keep my subsidized apt but I have deep appreciation for this phenomenon of van living. In addition to the reasons you outlined, there is a larger socio-economic revolution going on. It is fascinating. The human family is shifting its values, discovering what life’s really all about. Thank you for your story. ❤️🚙
You have carved out a nice life in your van....
Unless you have a good plan as to how YOU want to change your life.....
Just keep living in your van the way YOU WANT....
Thanks for the video
I enjoyed this coffee chat and hearing about your background that led to your choice to make your van your home. I pray for God's continuous blessings on your journey, provision for all your needs, good health, angelic protection surrounding you and your van, and abundant peace and joy as you observe the beauty of this country. 😊 Kathy
People see others taking a break in a hotel room. For a heat wave when trying to get a pet well or something like that, and when their vehicle needs fixing and they can't sleep in it.
Yes the positives sure out weigh the negatives in van life as you point out. 👍👍🌟🌟🌟🌟👍👍
Hi! Thank you for your perception of life. This is my 4th day of van life. I am in a strange dream, and just observing every minute, while laying out a new lifestyle. Thank you!
I enjoy you being you. All best. It would be a treat meeting you.
100% agreed! We chose our Lifestyle. For better or worse we like our Lifestyle.
I agree with you.
Don't ever change for somebody else. I love watching your vlogs. I don't think I could live in a van but that doesn't mean it doesn't suit you. Stay happy and stay healthy.
I think you are one of best UA-cam channel out there keep on van live Scott
Thanks Ben
Do your own thing, be happy . !God Bless
OMG! I had some body damage and rented an apartment for 3 months. I missed my RV SO SO MUCH! So happy to be back in my small space! #youdoyou
I am SO happy for you that you don't let other peoples opinions affect you. You should always follow your heart and your intuition. Everyone's going to have an opinion no matter what. I think what you're doing is one of the best things a person can do. Dare to be different. BE the change you'd like to see in the world. God bless 🙏❤️
People..sigh. If you are happy, healthy and safe, you are already living a better life than most people. Keep being and doing you! 😊
I like the real life aspect to your videos, we are nearly a year into full time RV life (with 3 children) and we can relate a lot, it’s not always easy but it’s well worth it! Love your videos, keep em up!
You’re on another level! I always wonder how you do it with three kids.
@@StaticCamperVan haha yeh it has its moments! The kids get so much out of it though, they don’t need much to thrive, just a bit of nature 😊
You nailed it! Speak your mind, don’t ever let anyone control your happiness! Every day is a gift! I am in the same cross roads as so many people right now should I get in the van life? There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think about van life. #LiveEveryDayToTheFullest
Bottom line to me is, you don’t live in a van because you HAVE to, you live in a van because you WANT to. No matter how a person chooses to live their life, it will not be perfect 100% of the time. Thank you for speaking the truth of van life as you wish to live it.
Good advice, however for more people it's now becoming "have to" rather than want to.
What most others here have said. The truth you speak is not only about van life, but about life in general. We should all be living life the way we want to, without judgement from anyone.
Fantastic video, and so eloquently expressed.
I'm happy you are able to address these things so calmly, as I am sure it can be frustrating sometimes to get those emails 😊
I also live in a vehicle, and I feel it's the best that I have experienced as well.
I'm inspired by you, and am hopeful I can make myself as comfortable as you have. I'm a little bit crammed in here currently (lol), but I am working on it!
Thank you Scott, always a pleasure
Totally agree‼️ When you are a homeowner or renter and the neighbors are horrible, you are stuck with them. Good for you to stay mobile and can just pick up and go👏🏼‼️😃❤️
And we are very envious of your lifestyle. Well done!
You know, everybody has a bad day now and then, no matter what you are living in. All life is hard sometimes. I think you ought to just ignore the doubters. You know what is best for you. Keep doing what you love.
You NEVER want to give up on your dream! ❤
I say stick with it!
God bless! ❤🙏
Keep living in your van. I can appreciate your day to day experiences. Vanlife is not always adventurous and glorious, therefore you are sharing the reality of what can happen. Ignore those people and live your best life while drinking your coffee.
This was a wonderful coffee chat. Gives insight into the best vanlife can be, and what UA-cam can be. More power to you and your own style of vanlife!
Very well said, Scott!
Scott, you handled that situation quite well.
You were polite, respectful, calm, and made your points very eloquently.... If it were me, and a bunch of busy body's started in on me about whether or not, I should live how and where I do, I wouldn't be so calm , cool and collected!!!!!!!
I'm a nice person but i have my limits. I would hate to be in the public eye!!! I'm a very private person. If I had to have my private life constantly scrutinized, it would drive me nuts!!!!;
You're quite a guy Scott!!!!
Just be happy
🌷🙃🌷
Excellent conversation my friend 👍
I’d love for you to get a larger van…only for your neck/back. But I appreciate you sharing your life!
I would not like a bigger van at all. I am outside standing up most of the day. But I do have to hunch a bit when talking into my microphone.
Well said, Scott. Many of the points you made about van life vs living in a fixed structure - actually apply even more to a house/apt/condo. Bad neighbors? You just drive off. You aren't driving off with your house or condo with bad neighbors. You're stuck with them. Bad weather? Same thing. Even if it's not smart to move at that moment - you will eventually and fairly soon. Not so in a house. Houses and condos can be money pits as you already know. My brother is going through that. Like you, I've owned homes, lived in apartments, even a trailer park. I've lived in every kind of RV - I can't think of one right now I haven't owned, except a DIY build. And quite frankly, the best living has been in the RV's. My best neighbors, and the ones I knew the best - were in the trailer park. Not the house neighborhood, not the apartment living.
I remember when you were still out by Reno and questioning the wisdom of van life - I was really glad you got past that. It's been a pleasure to watch your journey. I enjoyed the Port Townsend meetup. I got and get what you're about: showing van life/mobile life as it is, not sugar-coating it. It's never occurred to me to suggest you quit it. The mobile life doesn't suit a lot of people, and those suggesting you stop are either not thinking through the changes, costs and disadvantages of living a conventional life. Keep doing what you're doing as long as it makes sense for you to do. There is no perfect way to live. There's only the best way for you to live. Good on you to have found it.
I really,, really enjoyed this video. Everything that you said made since. I'm a renter. I always feel trapped in the rat race. I love watching your vlogs. Because your always going and staying at some really amazing places. I look forward to every evening watching your adventure. Thanks for sharing with us.
Scott, Momento es Vida! I currently am in a sticks and bricks and still have to deal with weather, mold, flooding, plumbing problems, hand wash or have to go to a laundromat, heat or cold or fuel problems. Just problems in a bigger way- like the neighborhood has become unsafe but I just can't pick up and take off. Bigger money pit.
You are the smart one! God Bless you and your journey.
I used to live in a bus, but now rent a house, after being free and enjoying wherever we roamed i now feel caged in four walls , i hope and plan to be out there once again, its a great life , i miss it very much
Agreed
Big emphatic “YES to keep living in your Van!!” My worst day living this way is still way better than my best day living in a sticks and bricks! When freedom becomes more important than anything. 🙏🏼🤍💖💛 Thank you for sharing. Stay Blessed!
@@thlim1460 lol yes my answer didn’t fit the question did it lol I was saying Yes to his statement about living in a van being preferable to a house, apt, roommates, etc. let me edit my comment. Thanks! 😁
you should get a "portable' white plastic fence to put around your rig !! (white picket fence american dream thing)
Thanks for the real... Stay safe, stay well and stay free......
Most important is, follow your heart, as long as you can, that will make you happy. Others cannot feel exactly what you feel, they have their own preferences, their own fears and ideas, thats what makes them decide their way and will work for them, but only for them. I life in vans and RVs since a few years now, because I want to, not because I have to. From the money I saved living this way, I have bought a piece of land with a workshop as a kind of "homebase" and that works perfectly for me. I can stay on my land in my van, or I can be on the road. I never felt more comfortable and safe than beeing in my van and listen to thunderstorm and rain outside. I dont consider to change anything if I dont have to because of health or other things that might happen. Sticks and bricks can be damaged or washed away by weather as you can see every day on TV (if you want to) in a van or RV, you can drive away and even if you vehicle would get damaged, you could relatively easy replace it (compared to a house). So this is what works for me, some others take pity on me (is that the right english wording?) but I feel the same for them if I see how much time and money they have to spent for their houses, cars and gardens. Totally agree with all you say, thanks for the early morning coffee chat and have a great day on the road.
Exactly how I feel
I took a coffee ☕️ break for the coffee chat. You nailed it. 🙂
Many people don’t seem to realize that VanLife is a housing choice. Some people see it solely as a temporary camping adventure. (Which it can be.)
Listened to it twice through. Thank you for this channel
Thanks Bren
If you're happy, then others should be happy for you :) Life is a glorious journey - so just paddle on and enjoy every moment and opportunity you can :)
5 1/2 years in a van, so 66 months rent avoided at $1200/month = $79,200. Wow. Of course it's not all about the money, but it's impressive that by living in a van you're healthier, eat better, avoid neighbor/roommate stress, *and* save a ton of money. What a great discovery.
Well said 👍 your choice to how to live your life and it is a great life you are living ❤️
I applaud you!!! More people should hear and fondly listen to you. Your statement is a genuine, kind and experience expression of profound reflection. It doesn't mater if you live in a van or in a fixed place. It is how you approach it. LOVE from NYC...💝
🦋
After watching your videos. And more to watch. I wouldn’t change a thing. What you have going on is perfect. You have everything you need like you said and been very happy for over 5 years or so. As long as you stay safe and have things map out and planed like you do. I wouldn’t change anything. Your channel is real and what it takes to be on the road and what keep you going. Cheers to you and I tip my coffee cup to you. Well done on your channel and your thinking and like you said YOUR WAY. Be safe and Aloha.
Thanks Scott!!! I am a Loan Owner, with a way out! I'm working on my van... "People" are saying don't give up the house... I think it says more about their sense of security... this is my third house, the dream has for me become a night mare, for all the reasons you have mentioned... Neighbors. Taxes, and being chained to a Mortgage... I can't wait to sell and become "untethered"... the journey becomes about, who do we "get to" become... Oh boy what a question... thanks for a great vid!...
Thanks for sharing this! We spent 5 years traveling in an RV but Covid stopped our travels due to concerts cancelling (we are vocalists/musicians) We are currently renting, but coming to a crossroads and considering home ownership or van life.
Almost forgot. My other half said again your voice has a nice tone that’s relaxing. You can almost do a channel and do a story telling videos.
Thanks. I’ve been considering doing that. Though this channel is almost more than I can manage.
I am shocked that “commenters” make statements of negative nature. I was raised not to say anything if you cannot say something of gratitude or positivity. I honestly cannot bring to mind even one of your videos that doesn’t reflect reality of your experiences, including challenges that we all run into. I appreciate and respect your choices and I look forward to learning from you and those experiences. I’m glad you made this video ! But, I’m really looking forward to whether your new backpack has worked out for you and the space you wanted to declutter !! Lol Rock on ! SVM 🤗😎⭐️
Hey Scott..my past living arrangements are similar to yours so I can relate. As someone who has been living in a van for over 12 years in several different climates..I can say the top 2 inconveniences of living this lifestyle are the weather and finding a spot to park. I said inconveniences and that's all I consider them. Any choice of living arrangement has its positives & negatives..up to the individual to find the one that works best for them. Anyone telling you to get out of van life just because you're telling it like it is..doesn't understand those of us who live this way. For myself..I didn't choose van life..it chose me. I feel it was a natural progression of my life experiences..I was always moving in this direction. I don't think a lot of people living a different lifestyle can really understand that we willingly give up certain creature comforts for the freedom to live this way. I'm not denigrating anyone living a more "traditional" lifestyle either..there is no right or wrong. The only thing I would change in my situation..is to find some land somewhere and not to build something to replace my van either. More to add to it..a small shop perhaps. Here's one for the guys that I've learned in talking with women..when they bring something up they just want us to listen to them..not necessarily to solve anything 😁 So next time instead of trying to solve a non existent problem..just understand we're just sharing our life. P.S. In no way was I inferring Scott as the woman in this situation..lol.
Well said. 😊🙏🏼💖
My thoughts too, Paul.
Couldnt agree more on both counts. I would add another inconvenience is keeping up with dirt. Got sand? But it is all part of the experience. As Eckhart Tolle says "suffering" is resistence and human condition is discomfort. We are stuck, at least for time being in this physical form that disintegrates with time. Life is short, be kind to yourself and others around.
Well said Paul.
Do not give up van life. I wish I could do it
I think your doing great I love your life Scott, it’s what im striving for in the uk xx
Live your life to suit your self. I wish I was out traveling and living free. Stay safe
I recently started renting a shop space for woodworking and as a music studio and even some of my closest friends thought that meant I’d be giving up living out of my van. It reminds me how even after several years some people just don’t get it. I’ve never enjoyed the lifestyle more than I am now and I’m not about to give it up either.
Good on you, and well put.
Very well said. Cheers dude. You earned greater freedom.
It's like living like you're incredibly wealthy with infinite houses and backyards anywhere in the Americas. You have a vacation home up in the mountains, beside the ocean, a city condo in the city, or wherever you want to live.
Yessss Freedom !!!
Well said.
Amen , we live in vans because we love to live In them and save our money for bigger and better vans and ideas . Iv just purchased some land . Id never ever have been able to do this before . Now I have the opportunity to help the homeless and start working for my self
Brilliant!!!! I ❤❤❤
You are very informative in the van life I'm learning as I may do that one day in future but I'm 68 years old so not sure if I could do it a few more years down the road. Thank you for sharing most appreciated ❤
Every place has it's pro's and con's that's life
It looks like van life agrees with you. Plus you are young enough and strong enough to do the life. You look very comfy. Continue as long as it makes you happy. Id love to do it. I commend you!
Your health, mental and physical is the most important thing in your life. Keep them both!! P.S. I want that mic just for the mood lighting 😉
You know this mic drives me crazy. I’d let you have it if it were possible. But I’m stuck with it! 😂
@@StaticCamperVan lol!
just follow your heart, intentions and thoughts of how to live and manage your life. Other people can only help you find better solutions and ideas how to realize your way of living. It´s your life no one else.
Let that boy boogie woogie. It’s in him and it’s got to come out !! -attributed to John Lee Hooker
one of the best videos explaing the benefits of vanlife and why vanlife is so popular
G’day Scott, just live the way you want to live it’s your choice. I started watching you for your travels and experiences travelling all around your lovely country. I really appreciate you showing us a lot of beautiful places, keep it up friend, I love it…
Cheers from Down Under.
Yup, my path has been similar to yours, and living in my van has been a much better life.
I enjoy your videos. You are very you and I think it’s healthy that you discuss your good and bad times. Don’t let others bring you down!
When life gets tough, you just don't quit. You're a strong individual my friend.
I’m not that strong. Vanlife is simply easy.
@@StaticCamperVan unfortunately I had a negative experience. so i'm back with my grandparents lol
Well, that’s what family is for.