I Have BIG NEWS! Why I'm Switching Rigs | Full Time Airstream RV Living as a Solo Female Traveler
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- Опубліковано 9 лип 2024
- After living in my Airstream for almost one year, I’ve decided to switch things up. I have thoroughly enjoyed having a home on wheels and decided to take this lifestyle a step further by switching to a...
FORD TRANSIT VAN! The specific van I got is a 2022 AWD Ford Transit Cargo Van, High Roof, Extended, with a 3.5L EcoBoost Engine. Phew, that’s a mouth full!
I am having my van PROFESSIONALLY built into my new full time home by Drifter Vans in Detroit, MI. I am thoroughly impressed with them so far and highly recommend working with this amazing group of people if you are in the market for a van conversion. Check them out here:
www.driftervans.com/nomadicsarah
To schedule a van build consult, contact Paul at pauldomish@driftervans.com and tell him Nomadic Sarah sent you! 😊
Why am I making this switch? There are a TON of reasons! Drop your questions in the comments below and I will try to make a dedicated Q&A video.
** My Airstream is FOR SALE! **
Okay, not officially. But it will be soon! I’m currently living in it in the Seattle area and plan to sell it within the next couple months. It’s a 2022 Airstream Caravel 22fb with solar upgrades, lithium batteries, awning package, convection microwave, tons of interior upgrades, and accessories galore! Check out my other videos to learn more about the upgrades. I’ve lived in it full time since the day I bought it in Feb 2022, so all appliances are used regularly and in great condition. I don’t have an official tour or listing yet, but please send all inquiries to contact@nomadicsarah.com. I’m super sad to part ways with this baby, but I hope to find a great new owner that will take it on many more exciting adventures!
I hope you all are as EXCITED about this change as I am! There will be many exciting van videos to come!! And please drop #airstream video requests as well so I can make a couple more before I part ways with it.
Thank you guys SO much for your support and get ready for all the #vanlife videos!!!
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Questions, tips, inquiries, or just want to say hello:
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'Til next time! 😊✌️
The monthly payments of an airstream down to a commercial van would be a game changer.
Oh you won’t have any trouble getting rid of your air stream. You’ll probably make a profit from it. I think you gonna dig that van girllllll!!!!!
I would think that if you are working contracts in one spot for weeks at a time, the trailer would work better, as you don't have to put everything away inside to ready it for transport every day when you have to drive to work. Also, if there are any issues with the van, the large amount of money spent on the living quarters can't be separated from the vehicle. Major mechanical problems or an accident? All that money spent on the interior is tied to expensive repairs, or a potentially totaled vehicle! With a trailer, the tow vehicle can always be updated as it wears out or is damaged. A van would only be my choice if I wanted to move often (like daily on a road trip, or used for weekends parked in one spot), or if I consistently wanted to go to places that a trailer can't access. Even then, I would likely consider a truck camper, because the vehicle can be swapped out in the event of an accident or mechanical issue. Hopefully you've thought of those angles! Good luck changing your setup!
Hey there, thanks for your feedback! Yes, I have considered all of these things. The van has many pros and cons, just like any other rig. Although I work temporary contracts, the amount of traveling I do while on assignment is insane! I can’t count the amount of times I have left the Airstream behind, driven hours, and car camped because I didn’t feel like towing the Airstream for a spontaneous weekend trip. Having a van will allow me to spontaneously travel with way less preparation and planning, while still having all of my belongings with me and not having to pack/unpack all the time. I also take time off in between contracts and am always moving from place to place during that time. There are places I've wanted to explore but avoided while towing a trailer due to accessibly and campsite availability. The van is truly going to open up so much more opportunity for adventure and I think it will be a total game changer for me and Rue! 😊
@@NomadicSarah Sounds like a good choice for your needs then. And smart to pick the Ford in terms of having a larger dealer network for service. Look forward to seeing your new setup! Safe travels!
As class B van owners, I would say don’t be surprised if at first the van isn’t quite as quick to go as you were hoping. At first it took us about an hour to pack up from a site and get going. Now we’re down to about 20-30 minutes. Trying to get it down lower. But it is a process. Have fun in the new van!
Your tears at the thought of having a van says it all: there have been too many challenges with the trailer and you need it to be easier. For sure there are less moving parts and that is a start to 'easier'. I hope this is going to be everything you hoped for!
Congratulations Sarah! I will miss your informative Airstream videos. We are new Airstream owners since June 2022 and your videos have helped us with the learning curve. We've never towed or owned an RV before. I'm amazed by your "we can do hard things" attitude. I look forward to your future travel videos in your new ride!
I agree, towing a trailer alone is not ideal. Backing up with the trailer alone is a PITA.
Good luck with the new rig!
Congratulations Sarah ! We started our camping journey with a Westfalia camper van in 1990. Now, we owned an Airstream 30 ft and we love it. It is our fifth RV and at 63 years old, this rig offers the space and comfort that we need. Every RV that we owned was perfectly adapted to the lifestyle we had at that moment in our life. Have fun ! P.S. if I was single, I would definitely go for a van.
Has anyone asked how hot will the van get while you are at work and your puppy is inside the van?
Congrats on the new van, the build sounds very exciting! As someone that also tows an Airstream (23CB) with a Grand Cherokee, I'll miss seeing your Airstream, but I think the van is a great choice for you. All of these RV's have their pros and cons, our first RV was actually a small motorhome. With a van you can bring everything with you and your dog will have a place to stay when you are out doing activities like climbing or hiking in national parks that aren't dog friendly. Just make sure they build it with a good generator that can run the AC so Rue can stay cool in the summer. You should have no issue parking that anywhere. I'll keep watching Airstream or not, it's really the adventure that matters!
Congratulations
I would head straight to the U.P. after picking up the van.
Hi from the Yoop. 👋
Each style of RV has its advantages and disadvantages. There is a difference between living in a van and traveling in a van. It will be interesting to see how you feel one or two years out. Lots of luck in this new adventure.
I was initially disappointed (I've seen a lot of van life videos) but when you laid out your reasoning it made complete sense. Good luck on this new direction. It seems to be in good hands.
Yea!!🎉
You made the right choice.
Did you think about having to disconnect, put up, stow away everything when you simply want to drive into town or work since your van will be both transportation and living space.
As long as you’re a nomad, I am watching. Good luck!
Congratulations 😊
Congratulations! The Ford AWD platform is an excellent choice and the EcoBoost V6 engine is a stellar performer with great reliability. I would add to the ground clearance, change shocks to more off road capable shocks, add some skid plates to vital areas and change the tires to a more aggressive tread. This will further enhance its off road capability. However, it is still an AWD system not a true 4 x 4.
Amazing news. My wife and I have yet to take the first step, but we have also determined that the ease of driving, navigation and camping setup means we want a similar unit or a smaller RV. I feel you’re on a great path. Love and wishes for continued success.
We have a 170 extended Sprinter van, and we park it everywhere! Just back into the parking spot and boom you’re done 😃
We bought a new 2022 FC 25FB in April 2022. After seven trips sold it and the truck, and bought a 22' Pleasure-Way class B Sprinter coach for all the reasons you mentioned. The hour long hitching or unhitching, plus set up each trip was too much. We now have five trips driving over 3,000 miles in the coach and LOVE IT! Set up or break down is now 10 minutes, and have not had an issue parking while out touring.
So glad you chose extended length. I feel strongly you will be 200% more comfortable in your van and van lifestyle. Even many of the wealthy retired motorhome owners are finding it best to downsize to an extended van. You can park in normal parking spaces with all the amenities Congrats. With your pet you might want to install two fans for air rotation.
So exciting! You will love not having to hitch up! We switched to an motorhome and I could never go back!
Way, way back in the day, we wanted a "conversion van." We were just starting our family and loved the outdoors and camping. What we learned was, the van would be under one warranty and the conversion part would be under another warranty. So if something went wrong with a sink, toilet or A/C, we would have to go back to the company that did the conversion part for repairs. That might be in another state! If something went wrong with the van itself, the warranty or repairs would be handled by any Ford Certified Repair Shop.
Oh. My. God! Congratulations! I am so excited for you. When I saw your feed and read the title. I’m like. Wait. What?! What is she doing? I’ll be sad to see your beautiful caravel go however, your new rig will be just as beautiful if not even more fun. Happy journey to you! Can’t wait to see more of where your life leads. ❤🎉😊
Congratulations on your new van & job with Drifter Vans Sarah! I’ve been following Drifter Vans for a while now. I love how they can custom build a van to each customer’s lifestyle & love how they treat their customers ❤ when I’m ready to have my van build Drifter Vans is where I’ll be going to!
Life’s a journey and it’ll be interesting to see your one year review on the van. You’re giving up square footage for driving convenience. But seeing the obvious excitement on your face was fun to see.
Smart move .......
I love vans! That being said, I am full time in my 23 foot Airstream and have no plans of ever giving it up. I have had thoughts about getting a van as a second option and even be able to tow my Airstream with the van when I have friends that want to come. A van is much easier for a quick getaway. The thing that scares me about living in one is if it has engine troubles and has to be in the shop. Having to "move out" and stay in a hotel a while could be an inconvenience. Too bad you can't keep both. I am super excited for you though and I know you'll love it. I can't wait to see it!
Congrats! You are brave.
Don't know till you find it.
Thank you for sharing your world.
So glad you went for the extended version, especially for the indoor shower. As you are currently a single traveler, makes sense to be able to park and drive more simply. Hopefully you will not miss the space afforded by the Airstream.
Will you have to drive the van to work everyday? I’m so curious to see how it goes!
Very exciting for you! I can completely understand how it would be extremely stressful towing solo. Smart move, I look forward to seeing your new rig.
i cant wait to see it. sarah is the very 1st few pioneering that model.
Congratulations, Sarah.
Appreciate your determination securing a bank guarantee. Usually , it is a good practice not to spend beyond your cash flow. The bank is just making a good profit on it.
Congratulations on the next chapter in your nomadic travels. You are going to love your new travel van.
I hope you enjoy your new home on wheels. I look forward to seeing your future vids about your Ford Sprinter conversion Van experience. You’re awesome! Good luck! Sarah. 😊
Congratulations 🎊.
Seems like this the trend for couples and solo travelers. You can stealth camp, and with 4 wheel drive, you can really get off road and explore!!!! I'm happy for you!! Safe travels 🙏 Toledo 💙
I like the Airstream Interstate 19, but it’s extremely expensive with the 4x4 and E-1 options. Also it has a wet bath, no sink in the bathroom and would be great if one could sleep in the sofa without conversion.
Apparently, Ford and RAM VAN’s are less expensive than Mercedes-Benz ones.
Didn’t notice Airstream trailers were so unpractical, because they seem to have so much more interior space compared to a van. And a towing vehicle can be a very capable 4x4, also avoiding hitting the depreciation of all the VAN. Plus some solar conversion would have more space than a VAN.
That is so awesome! You will love that rig and the smaller footprint is going to be really nice. I bet lot's of smaller hospitals will let you park in their parking lot when you are working there. Congrats!!!!
Congratulations Sarah!. I am just glad this channel continues. Thank you for sharing and taking us on your journey. Good luck. Happy holidays!
Congratulations on your new rig! Thanks for sharing the steps you've taken. Looking forward to your next videos-
Yay! Sounds like an awesome idea. Can’t wait to see your new van.
So excited for your next chapter Sarah! I have been BEYOND impressed that you did the Airstream solo. My husband and I are Airstream/RV life newbies and I'm getting the hang of it, but I would never have been brave enough to do it alone, what with the things you mentioned and so many others 😳You are an inspiration! I hope you love van life even more & can't wait to see how everything goes! 🤩
Go Sarah! Excited to see what’s next for you and doggy! 😎🐾🚙
Congratulations on the purchase and designing of your new van home. I can't wait to see it.
That is so exciting. We had a travel trailer for 2 years and went to an RV and never looked back. It's so nice to just back into a spot and be basically done setting up. Congrats and can't wait to see the new build.
Excited to follow your new adventures in the van.
Congratulations on your new home on wheels! I am fascinated by the van conversions and how nice they look! Can't wait to see yours!
Exciting news!! Looking forward to seeing the new van and the adventures you take in it! Seems way way easier to handle/drive/park/and just enjoy things.
Congrats on the change...I agree with you, I think a van will work out better for you, and picking a 4x4 is going to be even better. Looking forward to seeing your future videos as the van build progresses.
Oh wow ! So excited for you Sarah. Good luck with everything 😊
You are so freaking awesome. Congrats on the new home!!
Sad to see you leave the Airstream family, but you are at the perfect time in your life to make a change like this. Good for you. Experiment and find out what the best fit for your lifestyle is, subject to the different seasons of your life. You don’t owe anybody an explanation!
There are tradeoffs with everything in life and while you’ll no longer be spending an hour fiddling with your hitch and such, you’ll be spending (much more) time every time you move securing the items you’d normally leave in place. You’ll learn to stash your stuff in places like the sink, etc. for ease. Or you’ll be more intentional about everything that you bring out when you bring it out. That daily hassle is what will keep us in our Airstream. :)
Perhaps you’ll want to invest in a beater car to avoid such issues, if you continue to pursue long contracts. Either way, you’ll find your way and make your own path.
You are a responsible, independent woman, capable of many things you never even knew. Have an amazing time during this time of transition as you continue to learn and explore!
Can’t wait to see it! 😃
Congratulations on the next step in your journey!
Your new van looks awesome can’t waite to see it
Sweet. Good luck with the Sprinter Sarah! Looking forward to your updates.
So happy for you! Good luck!
I’m happy for you and can’t wait to see the new van built👍🏽
Congratulations 🥳 I’ll
Miss watching the airstream. But excited for what’s next !!
Congratulations🍾🥂🎉🎊 On your Van 🚐 I have to say I’ve been camping a long time. I traveled with a lot of different travel campers from pop-ups to 42 feet campers, and I have to save my van has been my best decision I ever made. And it’s nothing about being lazy told vehicles it’s more about the convenience of being in just one like everybody says there’s pros and cons with everything. I just wanted to reach out to you and say congratulations stay safe stay healthy. And enjoy your travels.
Omg super congrats!!! Ive been following your journey from the beginning and definitely understand your sadness about the airstream. But how exciting is this van build!!! I have been leaning towards a van or short bus for the last year or so. As a solo female traveler I believe it will be so much safer for you. Well can’t wait to follow this process. Congrats again!!!
Best of luck with the new van, You're going to love it! I've had both, great choice.
Good luck!!! 🍀
Congrats Sarah!
So happy for you!
So happy you switched to the extended van😊
Happy for you!
The van will be so much easier for you to manage! We have a blue 148 transit. You are so lucky to get it so fast! We built ours out professionally in Chicago last year and we love it! Such an exciting process. Have fun!
How about tow a small light car like a 2600 lb manual transmission Honda Fit?
That would give you options of leaving your van plugged in with hot or cold temps at a seasonal site w/work commute yet easy blast-offs with your van on your time off and leave the car behind.
Congrats !! As a person in canada who is continually shopping for his van for solo camping (plus dogs) this is great to see how quickly the vans are available in the USA. Enjoy !
Congratulations on your new big adventure!
Congratulations! I look forward to watching your future adventures!
Hope you completely happy with your new build. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Sarah What a Fantastic deal congratulations I can't wait to see it way to go super happy for you and Rue
I am so excited for you !! What an awesome experience this is for you . I wish you the very best !! 😊
Congratulations. We have an Airstream Interstate 19 and love it. It’s convenient and easy to maneuver. It does get cramped with two of us but we make it work and we go everywhere in it. You’re going to love it. I’m so excited for you.
Congratulations. Lovely news. We look forward to Nomdaic Sarah Season 2 in your new #vanlife home. Thanks for sharing.
So excited for you..more awesome adventures
Fantastic. Great to see you so happy, looking forward to all the beautiful videos that will sure come up.
In future video, I'd be curious to see how you tackle the downsizing.
Yayyyyy cant wait to see
Smart choice getting the extended van…and by yourself will be much easier.
Great idea!
That’s great news! Check out Wild by the Mile. Love her van! Good luck! Can’t wait to see it!
I am an Airstream owner, so I have enjoyed watching your Airstream adventures. However, I am happy for this new chapter in your life and look forward to following you in these new escapades.
Congratulations! I think you'll have much more flexibility when deciding what to do on your days off from work. Have you considered flat towing the Jeep? Keeping the Jeep might cost you some mpgs but it does give you options.
Congrats Sarah! I've been full timing in the very same rig for 2.5 years now. Definitely some distinct pros and cons to living in the Transit. Number one pro - the most freedom of any type rig.
Congratulations 👏 I am so happy for.
Congrats!!!!
Congratulations! I believe you will really like the van. I have a 27' Class C and really like the ability to get up and go with minimal effort. Even at 27' my rig is easy in and out of most places and parking lots. I look forward to you new journey. 🥳
@Kaci Yes, normally I got to the back of a parking lot and park sideways across a few spaces. Big box store like Walmart there's never a problem.
@Kaci Good luck! 🙂
Great choice!
I have done the van thing and the 20 foot trailer thing and now I'm switching to a GMC crewcab 4x4 flatbed with a truck camper which has a crawl/pass thru, trailer thing is cool if you park for weeks or months at a time but orherwise a pain.
AWD van is not the same as a 4x4 truck , good for slick streets etc but have to careful offroad. The gas van is good base van
Congratulations 🎊 that's exciting!
You’re young, roll with it!!! 😊
Hope insurance for full time living isn’t an issue.
God bless you and Merry Christmas!!🎄🙏
Omg! Sarah! My jaw dropped hearing your news! Here I am doing Van life on the central coast of Calif for the past 3 years in a mid size vintage Aerostar Van that I built out myself. I was looking for a travel trailer like "right now". But where to find a stationary place for a short time is nearly impossible. Vans are much easier.. I'm ready to buy cash now, but after listening to your video, I'm not so sure I want to deal with everything that comes with towing a trailer. I might have to give all of this a second thought. I am SO happy for you!!!!!!! I love watching your channel.
Living in a van, down by the river
I travel part time in a Coachmen Beyond, built on the Transit 350 XL. You are going to love your van! It’s easy to drive and so nice to be able to go almost anywhere! Congratulations on your new rig! P.S. I love Airstreams but totally get it when it comes to set up and breakdown.
So happy for You Sarah. Your enthusiasm is soooo contagious!!! I got almost excited as You just listening to Your plans. I know there are a lot of pros and cons but I’m sure You worked thru all that before making Your decision. I would like to ask one question about Your financing. You told us It was a problem getting financing because of the way the vehicle is classified. Were there any issues because You are a travel professional working (I assume) on mostly 13 week contracts? PLEASE, keep us informed frequently on how this goes.