$1200 a Month SUPER FRUGAL VAN Life! Turning a 1977 Van into a COZY Home!

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  • Опубліковано 13 жов 2024
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    Theresa has transformed her 1977 Dodge Tradesman 200 Cargo Van into a cozy home down by the river. Living on an extremely frugal budget of just $1200 a month from social security and food stamps, Theresa has created a life of freedom and simplicity. Her resourcefulness allows her to enjoy time with family and have the freedom she has always wanted. Theresa is a testament to the power of frugality, and the pursuit of happiness.
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    Thanks for watching!

КОМЕНТАРІ • 278

  • @LiveWhereYouPark
    @LiveWhereYouPark 23 дні тому +6

    Hey Van buddy!! 78 B200 here!!! :) So good to see another classic on the road.

  • @pianogal853
    @pianogal853 2 місяці тому +101

    Visiting family with your own bedroom is a win-win!

    • @seanh4841
      @seanh4841 2 місяці тому +4

      I love being able to sleep in my van when visiting family

  • @marcellaorourke8997
    @marcellaorourke8997 2 місяці тому +38

    I like her and her van, and her little dog too!

  • @RuloVaz
    @RuloVaz 2 місяці тому +3

    Bob looks so young😊

  • @jennifromdablock9197
    @jennifromdablock9197 2 місяці тому +77

    I really like her energy, her joy alone is inspiring!!

  • @WisconsinWanderer
    @WisconsinWanderer 2 місяці тому +108

    nice rig Theresa the older van’s are definitely user friendly and yes someone can actually do the maintenance on it. Thanks Bob😊

    • @stanbyme7874
      @stanbyme7874 2 місяці тому +3

      Absolutely. Add the tech you want, the way you want it.

  • @Lois-o1f
    @Lois-o1f 2 місяці тому +2

    Can't do van life without a pup ❤❤❤

  • @cotter9751
    @cotter9751 2 місяці тому +49

    Lately I'm really noticing all the varieties of nomad life through vans is possible. Thanks for interviewing Theresa and doing a van tour. There is much to admire here!

  • @asktheanimals
    @asktheanimals 2 місяці тому +51

    Yes! Hopefully that great 318 engine will go & go & go.

  • @lilrusty6720
    @lilrusty6720 2 місяці тому +25

    Really like the classic van. Keep it. Do not let it go.

  • @CruisinJr
    @CruisinJr 2 місяці тому +3

    Theresa!!!!! Miss ya! so glad to see you rockin' and rollin' in video form!

  • @brs6794
    @brs6794 2 місяці тому +16

    Nice, you don’t have to have an expensive rig to do it! Very inspiring!

  • @dynoreed7235
    @dynoreed7235 2 місяці тому +3

    Thanks for sharing! I love seeing her set up.

  • @normaevett
    @normaevett 2 місяці тому +4

    Great attitude! So happy for her living her dream!

  • @deborahanderson5508
    @deborahanderson5508 2 місяці тому +41

    Awesome! What a classic. Keep them on the road!

  • @steveowens398
    @steveowens398 2 місяці тому +14

    Teresa is a very uplifting lady. Thanks for introducing her to us!

  • @OWK000
    @OWK000 2 місяці тому +17

    My family had what I think was a 1972 Dodge Van back in the seventies that we went camping with 5 kids, 2 adults. The Van had a homemade roof top tent with custom sewn canvas, designed by my dad, cut out by my Mom and custom sewn at the sail makers and a homemade plywood bed in the back. The littlest slept on the passenger seat and the other 4 kids on the roof top. When I see it, it looks just like old photos. Brings back great camping memories. ( Yeah, that was before seat belt laws.)

  • @christina3521
    @christina3521 2 місяці тому +45

    Bob has the best interviews!

    • @davidleigh443
      @davidleigh443 2 місяці тому +2

      Bob is a natural: friendly, respectful, and inquisitive.

  • @rustykatt3870
    @rustykatt3870 2 місяці тому +19

    Theresa and Bob, you are both an inspiration!! Good luck to you both, and to us all!! 👍😃

  • @mamalovesthebeach437
    @mamalovesthebeach437 2 місяці тому +35

    Thanks for featuring Teresa! It’s so nice to see the people have options.

  • @barbredgreen3403
    @barbredgreen3403 2 місяці тому +32

    You rock, sweet lady!

  • @RA-pr8jz
    @RA-pr8jz 2 місяці тому +15

    Thanks Teresa and Theresa You've both have given me the inspiration to keep camping in this life! You have made the right decision for a good reliable camper van the 200 series have a stronger suspension. The 318 engine will last you a long time, I put 366,000 miles on mine before it needed rebuilding. The only components that needed replacing on my van was the electronic control module after 140,000 miles, they usually cost $25 to replace, timing chain, rebuilt the carburetor, water pump, coil, alternator, and the starter. Two very good things about the old school Dodges is there's no expensive computer to replace and your fuel pump is bolted on the side of the engine which is much safer and easier to get to with two bolts instead of inside the gas tank. I've worked on many Dodge vehicles for 42 + years, the old school models are my favorite and i feel are still the best. Take good care

  • @63mrl
    @63mrl 2 місяці тому +6

    Peace, health, and prosperity to the lady.

  • @donwyates
    @donwyates 2 місяці тому +4

    Another good example of the freedom associated with the nomadic lifestyle.
    Cool van - simpler is usually better.
    Looking good Bob!

  • @blackwoodslawn
    @blackwoodslawn 2 місяці тому +23

    Classic Old'Yellow Crazy Gramma
    Down by the River...camp host.
    You are a Hero!!!
    I love the art work.
    Thanks Bob for back to basics Vanlife.

  • @tinalange5471
    @tinalange5471 Місяць тому +1

    As always, inspiring!

  • @cathyr003
    @cathyr003 2 місяці тому +25

    Love your living your dream. I am trying.

  • @vonlossberg
    @vonlossberg Місяць тому +2

    You are so awesome you remind me of my girlfriend's. I used to have a Dodge Tradesman Band 2 but I didn't have the high top then I lived in there for like 3 months and got a 1969 camper that was so cool that I ended up living at this awesome place that had a river for 7 years anyway I really enjoyed your interview

  • @jobhiojkp
    @jobhiojkp 2 місяці тому +16

    Bob is looking well!

    • @Lois-o1f
      @Lois-o1f 2 місяці тому

      ALWAYS ❤😊

  • @kellykersten8828
    @kellykersten8828 2 місяці тому +1

    The carpet tiles probably help insulate it too.

  • @maehay4065
    @maehay4065 2 місяці тому +22

    Nice older rig Theresa! I like rigs with character. It’s hard to find that in newer rigs.

  • @carenjobe1228
    @carenjobe1228 2 місяці тому +16

    Very inspirational, nice rig..smart lady & great attitude on life!❤️

  • @philmickey7247
    @philmickey7247 2 місяці тому +2

    Excellent!
    Thanks!👍

  • @barbaraketchum8287
    @barbaraketchum8287 2 місяці тому +5

    I love how you've incorporated a traditional cedar chest into your build. It's so creative that you've tipped it up and built shelves inside!!! Your pup is PRECIOUS!!

  • @PatriciaTWalsh-rn8cx
    @PatriciaTWalsh-rn8cx 2 місяці тому +1

    Nice job Tracie best wishes camping.😊

  • @georgiacorey954
    @georgiacorey954 2 місяці тому +20

    Wow Theresa, I really love your van. And the cedar chest idea is awesome.

  • @jeannemarie3704
    @jeannemarie3704 2 місяці тому +10

    ❤ this is great. Love the happy yellow flower child vibes!🎉

  • @elizabethcarrington5819
    @elizabethcarrington5819 2 місяці тому +5

    Totally cool lady! She’s enjoying the “now” and gets to have her dream life. Very inspiring! Love the van and color. Your son did an awesome job for you ❤️

  • @tinaricard8650
    @tinaricard8650 2 місяці тому +1

    Hey Theresa you are famous now..great interview 🏜⛰️🏞💜

  • @davevega5083
    @davevega5083 2 місяці тому +10

    the dog's one flopped ear is pretty cute

  • @gabrielleparis3532
    @gabrielleparis3532 2 місяці тому +13

    💛You go girl! Love your spirit 💛💛💛

  • @JonTanOsb
    @JonTanOsb 2 місяці тому +12

    Using the inverter (AC) to run the fridge uses a lot more power than using 12V. Get a 12 V plug for your fridge and it'll run on DC power. I will require using a cigarette lighter (12 V socket) but your battery will last a lot longer.
    Nice build. :)
    Jon in rural BC, Canada

  • @steve9326
    @steve9326 2 місяці тому +14

    Lovely lady with a big heart!

  • @bohoxplorer840
    @bohoxplorer840 2 місяці тому +16

    You go girl XOXOOX
    DODGE is the way to go...I have a 74 DODGE xplorer !
    Her li dog is just precious.

  • @williamcochell9889
    @williamcochell9889 2 місяці тому +11

    Wow, what a trooper! That van is incredible. She drove it 60,000 miles my gosh from 1977 it must have at least 300,000 miles on it by now!

    • @pamsmith1665
      @pamsmith1665 2 місяці тому +5

      She didn't run it from 1977. She bought it 8 years ago at the time this was recorded

    • @williamcochell9889
      @williamcochell9889 2 місяці тому

      @@pamsmith1665 I wasn’t saying that she put the miles on it up to 300 just that it must have that many miles on it including that she drove for 60,000

    • @theresawebster1027
      @theresawebster1027 2 місяці тому

      I've driven it 64,000 miles since I bought it in 2017.

  • @TedTurner2023
    @TedTurner2023 2 місяці тому +15

    Looks comfortable and unique. Nice.

  • @tinab6032
    @tinab6032 2 місяці тому +4

    Hey there Theresa. Nice to see you two again and inspiring others that they can live the dream. Safe and happy travels!

  • @thatalaskaguy1118
    @thatalaskaguy1118 18 днів тому

    318 engine torkflight transmission great combo.
    That 400 watt inverter is really clean power.
    great video.

  • @drivinfool9902
    @drivinfool9902 16 днів тому

    She is very handy for a lady. Way to go. I'm so proud of you. ❤❤❤😊😊🎉

  • @dl4126
    @dl4126 2 місяці тому +16

    I like her clever bag. I remember using one similar in the 70's. Thanks for the video Bob!

    • @stanbyme7874
      @stanbyme7874 2 місяці тому +1

      Weirdly. I’m living in Portland & bought similar bag on Etsy. Couple of happy old hippie chicks hitting the road🫶🏽☮️

    • @misst1586
      @misst1586 2 місяці тому +5

      I had one too

    • @theresawebster1027
      @theresawebster1027 2 місяці тому +1

      Thank you!

  • @TammyCondren
    @TammyCondren 2 місяці тому +5

    Theresa is a trip❤! What a great attitude & sense of humor🙏🏻👏🏻Happy Travels Theresa & Bob

  • @keemandikotravels
    @keemandikotravels 2 місяці тому +10

    Wow such a cool van

  • @PulpParadise
    @PulpParadise 2 місяці тому +7

    Great rig, Theresa! Thanks for sharing it with us and Bob @CheapRVliving.
    Your son did an excellent job and that explains why the paint looks so good - I noticed that when Bob did the walk around. So happy for you living your van life, visiting friends and family and camp hosting down by the river!

  • @JJGhost-b3m
    @JJGhost-b3m 2 місяці тому +11

    I used to have the shorter version in baby blue, paneled/carpeted I miss it🚙

  • @HricigaDevOps
    @HricigaDevOps 2 місяці тому +16

    Wow. 1200 a month, life must be quite expensive in the US. Here in Slovakia for 1200 is a good normal life in a house for 2 adults and 3 kids.

    • @DeA-ln1vu
      @DeA-ln1vu 2 місяці тому +1

      Agreed, but she didn’t say what her overhead is, just what she brings in per month.

    • @missreynolds3637
      @missreynolds3637 2 місяці тому +2

      It is expensive here, but it also depends on how much debt one has too. How frugal one is with their money as well. We are blessed to have a paid for house, we don't heat and cool our whole house either, we have paid for old cars, don't use credit cards, hubby works part time out of house, sometimes has to take away from our retirement to help us out when his work is slow. But we don't get food stamps, and I don't get disability yet either as I haven't ever filed for it. I am disabled as well. I do get healthcare, but some of our property taxes helps to pay for that. If I had my disability, it surely would help us. My husband doesn't like to leave me for long, in case I fall, or pass out on him. He only goes to the grocery store if he has to leave me. I nearly died four years ago. So he has a worry I will pass out and he won't be here . **Edited to add: we live on a lot less than most Americans do.

    • @maryallen663
      @maryallen663 2 місяці тому +3

      Yes 1200 a month nothing in the USA , that’s most people rent.

    • @freefoodchef7939
      @freefoodchef7939 2 місяці тому +2

      Wow! Yes, life in the US is definitely so expensive that it doesn't even make any sense since most people here can't afford the prices and are living just barely above the poverty line in order to survive. The greed here is relentless. I don't understand how so many landlords and business owners can live without a conscience.

    • @tracylawrence5258
      @tracylawrence5258 2 місяці тому +1

      I can live like a king on $1200 a month. I live in SC and did pay cash (18,000) in 2008 for 1.67 acres. I have a small 12x20 rough sawn cabin w wood stove. 2 paid for older vehicles. Bills are 84$ car insurance, $80 electric,$62 phone. Garden and never pass up an invite for a meal. Don't have a regular job and don't get any govt assistance even though I could because I'm way below poverty level. I barter with friends and do little odd jobs for the money I need.

  • @RUTHSOFFGRID
    @RUTHSOFFGRID 2 місяці тому +3

    Love my 2000 Dodge. Old Yeller gives me hope that I can keep her running! Yay Theresa for being so handy. Inspiring!

  • @adequatebus8280
    @adequatebus8280 2 місяці тому +2

    those mid-70's Dodge vans were work horses and gems. the phone company alone had 10's of thousands of them. bulletproof.
    wonderful rig. -C

    • @theresawebster1027
      @theresawebster1027 2 місяці тому

      I found one covered in moss outside of Sheridan Oregon!

  • @HammVan
    @HammVan 2 місяці тому +5

    Love the van! Retro and beautiful

  • @oldkicker8958
    @oldkicker8958 2 місяці тому +1

    Nice lady, she’s doing a great job and she’s doing what she wants.👍

  • @Tipperary757
    @Tipperary757 2 місяці тому +6

    Great tour. Lots of work. You've made it work!

  • @ramonapuckett3059
    @ramonapuckett3059 2 місяці тому +10

    Great interview! I really enjoyed hearing about Teresa and her little dog. Thanks, Bob 🩷

  • @rudyruedemann2334
    @rudyruedemann2334 2 місяці тому +3

    Great setup by a very nice woman. I enjoyed this video.

  • @gerald4nomads
    @gerald4nomads 2 місяці тому +1

    Bob, I usually just watch your videos quietly in the background, but I have to admit, I’m truly impressed with this one. I live in Maryland and living in a vehicle particularly a van is frowned upon and viewed is being homeless. I, wish I could move to a location where people are free to live as they will.

    • @DeA-ln1vu
      @DeA-ln1vu 2 місяці тому

      Just do it & don’t give a hoot what others think. Go create and be free!

  • @lynnef3297
    @lynnef3297 2 місяці тому +3

    👋😄 Cool old van, "Old Yeller" ❣️ Thanks for sharing.👍

  • @wextremeart4399
    @wextremeart4399 2 місяці тому +7

    Van is beautiful I love the color

  • @user-rm3ky3hv7s
    @user-rm3ky3hv7s Місяць тому +1

    What a fantastic example of living minimum
    Lifestyle.
    Of course She is very creative and motivated which is her essence. She is a good example for us out here moving in her direction!
    Thanks!

  • @Janey234
    @Janey234 2 місяці тому +1

    You son and daughter did a great job helping, as well as being resourseful for yourself. 👍

    • @theresawebster1027
      @theresawebster1027 2 місяці тому

      My kids are so supportive and I appreciate them so much!❤❤

  • @TheRock-xj7hs
    @TheRock-xj7hs 2 місяці тому +6

    God bless you! Bob, you continue to find the finest of the finest nomads.

  • @ozarksbrotherjerry4297
    @ozarksbrotherjerry4297 2 місяці тому +2

    Very smart gal.

  • @ThePeachyFlamingo
    @ThePeachyFlamingo 2 місяці тому +13

    Love ❤️ it!

  • @yvonnekramer46
    @yvonnekramer46 2 місяці тому +1

    You Go Theresa!!
    Woo! Hoo!

  • @UplyftInc
    @UplyftInc 2 місяці тому +1

    Nice little setup!

  • @MountainGirlwIPA
    @MountainGirlwIPA 2 місяці тому +5

    Love the van color

  • @a.mstree
    @a.mstree 2 місяці тому +2

    Very inspiring for older women ! Love your van , personally and doggie! Safe travels… hope to, see you down the road one day ✌🏼🚐✨✨

  • @rgbar-g780
    @rgbar-g780 2 місяці тому +3

    I love Teresa's van home and her pup ❤ What a great video. Good vibes

  • @daynadiggle8169
    @daynadiggle8169 2 місяці тому +9

    Thats the spirit ! This is what I like to see . Another great video Bob ! 😊😊❤❤

  • @1wolfpup
    @1wolfpup 2 місяці тому +2

    Another nice van. Thank you, Bob.

  • @cjdouglass1339
    @cjdouglass1339 2 місяці тому +5

    So cool! 😎 You’re doing what I’m planning on in the next 3 yrs! Exactly! (Older Van, very tight budget, Minimal, etc...) Live in Cloverdale, OR, Carolyn

  • @RussellNollenMusic
    @RussellNollenMusic 2 місяці тому +1

    Thank you for sharing this! ❤

  • @ramontoro
    @ramontoro 2 місяці тому +4

    Hello from Puerto Rico Bob and Friends,

  • @shawniemar
    @shawniemar 2 місяці тому +1

    I’m getting more and more excited about starting my own van life. I’ll be 63 this weekend and can no longer afford my rent as someone on disability. I would not have chosen this lifestyle a few years ago but it looks more and more appealing every day. My #1 problem is coming to terms with parting with my belongings. I will probably keep a small storage unit for a while.

  • @Gabrielle499
    @Gabrielle499 2 місяці тому +8

    Awesome!! 👏👏😊

  • @racebanning6390
    @racebanning6390 2 місяці тому +3

    Good for Her.. 🙏🙏🙏Smiling and Happy, Be blessed!

  • @asmradventureasmr
    @asmradventureasmr 2 місяці тому +5

    I was distracted by her cute little dog ❤

  • @Mackyoh22
    @Mackyoh22 2 місяці тому +1

    Great video guys!! Love your van Theresa & your great uplifting energy! Well done in getting out of that basement and out on the road with your gorgeous little furry pal!
    When I hear stories of how we leap from sticks n bricks to van life, it makes me think of how we take a potted plant and dig it into the wide open wild space...it grows & flourishes beyond our expectations. Keep on truckin' girl and thanks Bob for finding these wonderful, interesting like-minded souls. ❤

  • @77gmcnut
    @77gmcnut 2 місяці тому +4

    Those older Dodge vans with the 318 cid engine are great. Easy to maintain. One area of weakness in the one I had was the perch the steering box is bolted to broke loose and I had to have it welded back in. Love the pantry and the granddaughter drawing.

  • @deblong3691
    @deblong3691 2 місяці тому +3

    Very creative 😊

  • @einzgeisha
    @einzgeisha 2 місяці тому +4

    I'm excited Theresa's excited! She's really true how on fixed income it's either or. and she chose or so she can see everyone and travel!

  • @COOSA6870
    @COOSA6870 2 місяці тому +4

    That is a great home on wheels! I love the old style hitop van. Enjoy each day, Im soo sorry to know your disabled. Very few healthy people understand the daily hurdles you have to overcome. God bless you and I pray you keep the level of health you have. Your a strong lady!

  • @lanarenz4559
    @lanarenz4559 2 місяці тому +1

    So happy to see you make a go of being out on the road. My husband and I want to be out there too. We are trying to sell our house and make it out there too. We have a class c motorhome. We are going to try it. Good luck to you. Maybe we will make it to the campground you host. We are coming from Washington state.

  • @melissastack5983
    @melissastack5983 2 місяці тому +3

    Good for you! I love how handy you are and that your living your dream. Cheers to you!

  • @jenlown4640
    @jenlown4640 2 місяці тому +1

    Nice rig she has

  • @kathyschaefer2455
    @kathyschaefer2455 2 місяці тому +4

    Good job and love your older van. We are building out an 1985 mini bus. Got to be able to stand up. Looking forward to being out there.

  • @susanwade9920
    @susanwade9920 2 місяці тому +2

    I am really looking forward to following your budgeting challenges. In MA I went from $87/mo to $325 with BCBS Sapphire plus dental/vision. Having very good health I made the mistake of having the plan with abt. $1,400 deductible. Took me 2 yrs to pay for it after appendix issue. Lesson learned. Sm. deductible now and nothing else the rest of the year. What a blessing! I hope the new rig works well for you.

  • @meganc243
    @meganc243 2 місяці тому +3

    Love the purse..I have the same one jus a different pattern lol..mine also has a flower on it

  • @HopeandFaithHomesread
    @HopeandFaithHomesread 2 місяці тому +6

    Awesome van ❤❤❤
    .

  • @maricotodiz4475
    @maricotodiz4475 2 місяці тому +8

    ❤ you Bob.

  • @MichaelGoydich63
    @MichaelGoydich63 2 місяці тому +2

    Great interview Bob

  • @DoctorBillTheRadioMan
    @DoctorBillTheRadioMan 2 місяці тому +7

    9 miles to the gallon.
    I had one.

  • @FrankBullitt390
    @FrankBullitt390 2 місяці тому +1

    A good running 318 will last forever, same with the 904 or 727 transmission