A Real Look at Van Life | Free Camping on Public Land

Поділитися
Вставка
  • Опубліковано 10 лис 2024
  • This is real look into what a typical day of living in a camper van is like. While van life looks glamorous, we show the other side of what tends to be edited out. Enjoy and let us know what you think in the comments below.
    Take a tour of our camper • Ultimate AWD Ford Tran...
    ► Official Website weretherussos.com
    ► Newsletter bit.ly/wtrsignup
    ► Books weretherussos....
    Joe and Kait have been traveling in various adventure based campers since 2015. For travel destinations, camper guides, essential gear and tips from the road visit weretherussos.com and / weretherussos
    ⓢⓤⓑⓢⓒⓡⓘⓑⓔ & Turn on Notifications for New Videos
    www.youtube.com...
    =========================
    © We're the Russos, LLC 2022. All Rights Reserved.
    =========================
    Disclosures -
    We’re the Russos is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 400

  • @ginny9311
    @ginny9311 2 роки тому +72

    I have to be honest, this is one of my favorite videos. Real life van living.

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +4

      So happy you enjoyed it! Thanks Ginny

  • @lisav834
    @lisav834 2 роки тому +58

    Kait is awesome, she is adorable, love her personality and her positive mind ☺️great video!

  • @stuckinmopro8533
    @stuckinmopro8533 2 роки тому +48

    It’s amazing how much you all have changed since I first started to watch. I remember you traveling in a huge Class A (?) with your fantastic Leo. You often stopped at great restaurants and buffets. You then started to downsize with each different RV showing a different way of camping. You also seemed to be exploring different culinary paths. It’s been a very interesting journey and I thank you for taking us along!

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +14

      You're welcome. I think most of us go through similar changes in lifestyle over the course of time, but with us it's all been documented so it's easier to follow.

  • @SGudur
    @SGudur 2 роки тому +3

    The best part is cleaning the mess.. I call it "Decluttering your mind"... I started doing the dishes quite a few years ago.. I wash every utensil by hand and sing my favorite songs all along... As you see the things getting cleaned right in front of your eyes, it gives some kind of happiness... Let's declutter, lets clean... Loads of love from India, my dear Russos!!

  • @andrewjones-productions
    @andrewjones-productions 2 роки тому +35

    This was an entertaining and fun video to watch. However, its star feature is its realism as to what travelling and living out of a van for extended periods really means! Exceptional insight for anyone that is considering buying some kind of motorhome or caravan (aka campervan and camping trailer or RVs). Through this video you can learn exactly what are the minimum requirements and space necessary to have an enjoyable time on the road and whilst camping to suit one's particular needs. We are all different and our minimum tolerances are consequently also different. Naturally! This video is perhaps more important than the Russo's themselves may think!

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +1

      Thank you Andrew, really appreciate that.

  • @Luigi13
    @Luigi13 2 роки тому +8

    I must say, while you show the van life Kate is the center of a lot of things so it looks? She is a wonderful wife and companion and extremely adaptable to many things, you lucky guy she is spoiling you with such a motherly and wifely services. I know you do a lot behind the scenes too, you guys are a great couple. Good teamwork and adventurous. Bravo?

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +2

      Thank you Luigi - we do make a good team

  • @davidfox2953
    @davidfox2953 2 роки тому +2

    Talk about keeping it real… I decided meal plan, untidy RV, clean-up, toilet routine (inside AND out) and. Then Underpants Day! Too much fun.

  • @suzannewch7202
    @suzannewch7202 2 роки тому +20

    This video ranks in my top 5 favorites of yours! And to be honest I can’t think of which ones would be the other 4! Great seeing the actual state of the van and you two! Totally agree with the lack of clean clothing thing….I have fond childhood memories of our family summer camping vacation (3 weeks), during which my corduroy pants got worn daily, while helping our farmer friend bring in the cows for milking. We did not see a washing machine until back at home…..nothing wrong with some real life odor……

  • @keyplayer5
    @keyplayer5 2 роки тому +17

    Best video ever. You guys are so funny! Just loved how you invited us into your day. I hope you do more of these type videos. It really gives us an idea of real life in that beautiful conversion we are considering. 💕

  • @nicholaskavowras7044
    @nicholaskavowras7044 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks guys, it’s always a pleasure…

  • @bonniepwtf
    @bonniepwtf 2 роки тому +13

    Taking a moment from my underwear day to say how much I enjoyed this real insight into one of your days. You've never really done this before, as far as I can remember & it was unique to see. You both seemed to relaxed & comfortable on camera. This is definitely one of my top favorite videos.

    • @bonniepwtf
      @bonniepwtf 2 роки тому +3

      That's supposed to be "so" comfortable not to.

  • @mikemanjo2458
    @mikemanjo2458 2 роки тому +12

    Thanks for keeping it real. Kait is amazing! Good to see that y’all are real. I just thought we were terrible slobs. Love from SC, Jane❤️🙏🏻

  • @TheEdelKampers
    @TheEdelKampers 2 роки тому +7

    We think underwear day is awesome. It was nice checking out how you chill out in van life. Thank you for sharing. Mary💕Fred

  • @musicdesign7264
    @musicdesign7264 2 роки тому +2

    I was laughing throughout video. Great idea to do ground coffee in the van. Less is best when space is limited.

  • @lynfl9814
    @lynfl9814 2 роки тому +8

    This one was about the reality of van life. Great idea! We all need chill days. Since we retired and COVID hit; I have had too many of those kind of days.
    I have tried to talk my husband into a camper or a RV van; no luck. Your channel makes me think how great that would be; you can still see new places without being around people.

  • @gordon3988
    @gordon3988 2 роки тому +3

    Can’t believe you did a video on simply a messy van; can’t believe that I really enjoyed it! In part, because you are enjoyable to listen to; in part, because it is was not that different from us when we are on our trips in our class B. Well done and thanks guys!

  • @cheersdarlin916
    @cheersdarlin916 2 роки тому +8

    This is one of my favorites. Just a little more sneak peek into your personalities. I loved it!

  • @carolynenochs9139
    @carolynenochs9139 2 роки тому +10

    I smiled (and chuckled) the entire time I watched. I have enjoyed all of your videos, but this one showed the real deal, and I appreciated it so much. Have fun relaxing and keepin’ it clean 🧼 🧽

  • @twd1953
    @twd1953 2 роки тому +4

    Yes, my wife and I totally enjoyed this and all your Videos. Thanks, it was very original.

  • @wendyfilice7101
    @wendyfilice7101 2 роки тому +2

    Omgoodness you guys are so cute. I love hearing the names of your meals. I could not pronounce them either but love hearing Kait. 😍 love seeing the reality of van life.

  • @ML-ws6ce
    @ML-ws6ce 2 роки тому +5

    So much fun to watch "the normal van life"...oustanding:)

  • @beverlychandler3191
    @beverlychandler3191 2 роки тому +9

    Thank you Kate for being so very real! Spelling incorrect...but Hunghaou! This video is exceptionally enjoyable cause it is basic and typical rather than perfected...

  • @eileenstickney80
    @eileenstickney80 2 роки тому +2

    I love that he used a stainless steel double boiler for a bowl. How convenient to have handles. I’m going to put mine in the rv.

  • @queenbear4581
    @queenbear4581 2 роки тому +3

    Kate is a good nurse, cook & chief bottle washer.

  • @pamelaweihrauch7735
    @pamelaweihrauch7735 2 роки тому +6

    Loved this video! Love seeing your quiet days! Enjoy your underware days!!!! Enjoy!!!

  • @allenbazar2707
    @allenbazar2707 2 роки тому +2

    Enjoyed this video so realistic.That is what Camping /Van life is really like,not everyday is a vacation!

  • @WeekendWanderersOverland
    @WeekendWanderersOverland 2 роки тому +1

    I work from home on Fridays...ALWAYS underware day!!

  • @NoProGoPronto
    @NoProGoPronto 2 роки тому +3

    I'm going to need all of the ingredients to that meal so I can make it this weekend. YUM! Thanks 🙂

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +1

      Hey! Long time no “see”.
      It’s very simple - just eggs, canned tomatoes, Chinese 5 or 13 spice, soy sauce and sambal chili sauce (we found ours at Walmart)

  • @pebblesdd4947
    @pebblesdd4947 2 роки тому +1

    Such a great van real life snapshot! Chillax, recharge, lounge, uwear, books, beer and finding a tree! Throw in a couple of chihooahooas and I know the shift and shuffle well. Kait I love love your hair, gorgeous.

  • @johnwilliamson9453
    @johnwilliamson9453 2 роки тому +1

    Real open kimono vlog! Nice watch! Thanks Kait and Joe!

  • @charlesdrake4001
    @charlesdrake4001 Рік тому +1

    That's looks like fun I need one😅

  • @jimchristensen965
    @jimchristensen965 2 роки тому +3

    I really liked this one. Fun, fun, fun.

  • @wayneullman5079
    @wayneullman5079 2 роки тому +3

    By far one of your best videos!

  • @scottthejeepguy7499
    @scottthejeepguy7499 2 роки тому +4

    What a great video of behind the scenes van life, thanks Russos, love me some Russos. 👏🏻 👏🏻 👏🏻

  • @edbenson98
    @edbenson98 2 роки тому +2

    I loved the real look you gave us into real life with the Russo's! You two were made for each other!

  • @sh99x
    @sh99x 2 роки тому +1

    Loved it. This is what I imagine van life to be. Chill.

  • @Drmikekuna
    @Drmikekuna 2 роки тому +2

    Thanks so much for this real view. I'm a part-time van dweller and I well know the shuffle that goes on for just about everything. Doing one thing means putting away something else. Even simple tasks like finding a can of soup can mean sorting through several baskets. When I solo camp I can organize a bit better, but when I camp with someone it is a constant effort to keep things running smoothly. In the end it all works out and in some ways the additional efforts make me slow down, which is a good thing (at least for me).

  • @LisaMarli
    @LisaMarli 2 роки тому +1

    I have underwear days too. And shorts or jeans I can quickly throw on when needed.
    The main difference from my casual day to yours is you are in the Middle of a Forest. So that makes yours more awesome. Enjoy your van life.

  • @gaillittle1700
    @gaillittle1700 2 роки тому +1

    I don't do underwear days but Sundays at home you'll find me in my pjs. I work 5 days a week and a pj day is a must. Thank s for this video, I love seeing how you both live behind the camera. ❤

  • @dhorner09
    @dhorner09 2 роки тому +2

    We too like to do our business outside when possible lol. It was really cool getting to be camping buddies at the Placerville event!

  • @hiropro2002
    @hiropro2002 2 роки тому

    Best video so far. Not too "structured". Not too much "script". Just the normal van life...

  • @peri3818
    @peri3818 2 роки тому +2

    You two are a very cute couple! Enjoyed your real life Vanlife day.

  • @BloomByCC
    @BloomByCC 2 роки тому +1

    The struggle is real in this video. I love that you’re showing real life. That meal looks amazing, you need to post the recipe in the video.

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому

      If you rewatch the video, you’ll see all the ingredients I put in. I just wing everything so flavor to taste

  • @sammiepuppy4196
    @sammiepuppy4196 2 роки тому +2

    Thank you for sharing. Coffee and beer are two of the basic food groups for campers👍🏻🤣

  • @dallaskl90
    @dallaskl90 2 роки тому +2

    About time you put Kate back on the camera she's awesome she's beautiful and I'm jealous great job you guys

  • @nancylagoyda5337
    @nancylagoyda5337 2 роки тому +2

    That was so much fun! I know we have never met in person but I really feel like I know you now. My husband and I went camping in a van last fall and you could have super imposed us in this video, down to the toilet. We have camped in a tent for 40 years of our 48 years together and it pretty much went the same way as the van. See you soon.

  • @Simplelife_seeker
    @Simplelife_seeker 2 роки тому +4

    Paused at 10:42...because I have to say this is my favorite video of you all. I think the "Real Look" vibe looks AMAZING on you two! The conversation, the laughs, the honesty jabs about the morning routine. I've been following you all for years but I must say I love the format of this video. Plus I get to see a bit further into Kait and who she is. And now back to the show...

  • @russripley8963
    @russripley8963 2 роки тому +3

    What a great video. “Real life van mode” is soooo good, thank you for being real. Keep them coming.

  • @Hsia_Travels
    @Hsia_Travels 2 роки тому +3

    Love love love tomatoes fried eggs. I've made those with noodles too. Also have you considered a folding mini washing machine. I've seen those for emergency washes for a couple of shirts or under garments. You can get it in Amazon. Also made some cold noodles with peanut butter sauce (not sesame), easy peasy. Wish I have more time to take mine out like you two. Hard to travel only on weekends...😭

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +2

      We have one that you have to fill with water and massage but haven't used it in years.

  • @colltech25
    @colltech25 2 роки тому +1

    Love real life with the Russos!!! Awesome. Thank you for sharing.

  • @joanhall3718
    @joanhall3718 2 роки тому +2

    Loved this “behind the seems” day in the life. I’d love to see future day in the videos .

  • @orientxiaodongli
    @orientxiaodongli 2 роки тому

    The Oscar of RV life 2022 goes to this one!

  • @judyhobday4760
    @judyhobday4760 2 роки тому +1

    I do like the van and how you go from day to night and back. And I thought I recognized where you are, near Sisters. The trees. I need to look for 11 spice, and as a side, I got my insta pot after watching you with yours. Love it so much. I want a Burky but need to save up for that. Also, the electric water pot. I have my mother's cast iron skillets, one large, one small. She got them when she and Dad married in 1938. Love your videos.

  • @commonsense592
    @commonsense592 2 роки тому +2

    You both made me laugh today. I think it's your relaxed manner that makes your vids so enjoyable for me. Stay awesome.

  • @Thesaltymedic36
    @Thesaltymedic36 2 роки тому +2

    Love the campsite. Just quiet in the pine 🌲 trees. I’m surprised you don’t have a hammock to nap in. The trees would be great to hold that. ✌🏼

  • @chantalc6444
    @chantalc6444 2 роки тому +1

    Nothing like a freshly brewed coffee after a nap. Or anytime, really! 😅This video was very fun to watch, please make more of these!

  • @doodlethebeagle2078
    @doodlethebeagle2078 2 роки тому +2

    thanks for sharing, this was awesome. Good water saving tips. Cheers 🍺

  • @bevgunson1486
    @bevgunson1486 2 роки тому

    You’re in our beautiful neighborhood! So nice to see how you live! We downsized to a small trailer and are loving it; shifting a bit each morning is worth it. Safe travels

  • @paulacartwrightjohnson8479
    @paulacartwrightjohnson8479 2 роки тому +2

    Great video! Love y’all!
    Thanks for sharing!

  • @robertabrams8562
    @robertabrams8562 2 роки тому +4

    This was a great video! Your interior didn’t look that untidy (I’ve seen worse on other channels lol)! I liked how you used Sambal on your eggs & tomatoes - gives it a nice Malaysian touch 👏🏼
    Always my best to you two 🤗🤗✌🏼

  • @darlenestout7548
    @darlenestout7548 2 роки тому +2

    Love it. Sounds like you guys are real.
    Glad to see that. Lol

  • @SonofDarnell
    @SonofDarnell 2 роки тому +2

    Guys I really enjoyed a day in the life of van life video it was excellent and a wonderful learning experience!

  • @chrisc161
    @chrisc161 2 роки тому +7

    This episode was interesting to me. I was thinking in buying similar RV and getting to see how the space is used it was very helpful.

  • @michaelgepson2877
    @michaelgepson2877 Рік тому

    I love the small lessons of the Chinese language and cooking! Nice!

  • @xrpxtrariceplease2811
    @xrpxtrariceplease2811 2 роки тому +3

    Joe you always got injured 🤕! But we still love you ! You have an excellent nurse by your side! How is the Mode compared to your last truck?

  • @sallyburkett-caskinette8723
    @sallyburkett-caskinette8723 2 роки тому +1

    Oh my goodness boiling water before putting it in the instant pot, and eating out of a reusable bag.. too funny!

  • @peterpiper487
    @peterpiper487 2 роки тому

    I like the idea of having the toilet built into a cabinet that just swings up and reveals the toilet... much more convenient. I see a LOT of things on this van built that could be much more convenient done a different way. But to each his own.

  • @deborah4579
    @deborah4579 2 роки тому +1

    So great to see both chillin and showing a the reality of a day in van life. I think we all have underwear days! Thanks for sharing this. Always a bonus when we get to see so much of Kait’s smile. 😊

  • @donnamagillacutte50
    @donnamagillacutte50 2 роки тому +3

    I love underwear day! Great to see you guys in chill mode!

  • @nicolalehmann7608
    @nicolalehmann7608 2 роки тому

    Water conservation tip when washing dishes: two spray bottles, one with watered down soap and a second with clean water. That way you don’t waste water by turning on the tap.

  • @orvsr4me2
    @orvsr4me2 2 роки тому +5

    You mean you don't always live in an unrealistic vanlife photo shoot scenario? I do enjoy seeing behind the curtain.

  • @LincRYAN
    @LincRYAN 2 роки тому +6

    Good video guys. You guys really showed what it is like 👍🏻! Really enjoyed the video! You guys ROCK

  • @GetOutBeHappy
    @GetOutBeHappy 2 роки тому

    Hmmmm, I'm reading your book right now and I must came across this paragraph.
    We seem to notice the camper vans more than anything. When we were at the vineyard in Paso Robles, we met a woman who was staying there in her van. She had been living out of it for almost a year, and it had everything she needed. A bed, tiny bathroom, table and a little kitchen. We both agreed we could never live in something that small, but it was intriguing that this woman could park her van just about anywhere.

  • @Pumpkin2844
    @Pumpkin2844 2 роки тому +1

    So nice to see you guys depict the reality of van life 🙌🏻 it’s all about using every square inch of the place 😊and shuffling stuff around as needed 👍… naps happen and adapting to new coffee methods can be fun ! You guys are great!

  • @mickster1780
    @mickster1780 2 роки тому +1

    a day in the life...in the woods...no one else around 😎

  • @ericliume
    @ericliume 2 роки тому +1

    This episode is so much fun to watch. Like it alot.

  • @susanm4988
    @susanm4988 2 роки тому +1

    You're close to me! I just got back from the crater lake area and scouting out spots on multiple forest roads. I have to say though, I'm jealous of the place you found! It's very forest and thick trees down here!

  • @dr.williamdunbar7334
    @dr.williamdunbar7334 2 роки тому +2

    I so much love this video. You are such a great couple and so inspirational. We all love you guys!

  • @jimlundstrom2986
    @jimlundstrom2986 2 роки тому +1

    Loved your van life snap shot. It's relaxing to see you two relaxing 👍👍

  • @sportstyler50
    @sportstyler50 2 роки тому +1

    Great vlog! Just a chill day

  • @sherylprewitt3264
    @sherylprewitt3264 2 роки тому

    Here for the realism

  • @darrellbrixey5341
    @darrellbrixey5341 2 роки тому +4

    Awesome video guys! 🤙🏻

  • @jennycraigadventures3314
    @jennycraigadventures3314 2 роки тому +3

    “One thing we doo doo is bring the toilet out.” 😁

  • @cactusinthemirror
    @cactusinthemirror 2 роки тому +3

    Great video! For us our 25 ft class C is as small as we can go. I need a private bathroom. Lol. Happy travels!

  • @kevinrichards2063
    @kevinrichards2063 2 роки тому

    About a year and a bit ago, I came across your youtube channel. I have to congratulate you on providing a different perspective on overlanding. I have learned to so much. Greetings from South Africa: we live an overlanding experience, a bit different to yours, but your inputs are so much valuable. Thank you

  • @johnvsf
    @johnvsf 2 роки тому +2

    Great video! Thanks for sharing!

  • @tradersato
    @tradersato 2 роки тому +2

    Like others have said, this is about as good a video as you’ve done. There is a lot more information derived from your real interaction with the van and yourselves.

  • @FOMC6780
    @FOMC6780 2 роки тому

    Thanks for being real in this video on Van life. Good choice in choosing an induction portable cooktop!

  • @sandylee1717
    @sandylee1717 2 роки тому +1

    Kate is precious!

  • @Mary-fq6sm
    @Mary-fq6sm 2 роки тому +1

    As an RV couple, this day of van living is pretty educational.😁 We travel in a 31’ vintage Airstream & the morning “stuff” shuffle & moving toilet situation is a hard pass for us. I guess we all decide what we are willing to live with. We have a set kitchen, recliners, bathroom, closet, etc. But this means we need a big diesel truck & parking on drive days can be a hassle. Cheers guys!

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +2

      Yep great point. We used to be in a 30' Class A motorhome so we understand but being small and nimble, for us, is worth so much more.

  • @nathan_livingourjourney365
    @nathan_livingourjourney365 2 роки тому

    We absolutely loved this vlog, a day in the #vanlife of Kait and Joe.

  • @dfrost7934
    @dfrost7934 2 роки тому +3

    Such a great video. Thanks for keeping it real. Really enjoyed this peek into your van life. Beautiful spot. Oh, Kait! How's the cookbook coming along? Can't wait!! Love you guys!

    • @Weretherussos
      @Weretherussos  2 роки тому +1

      She's done with it but needs to do formatting, etc

  • @denisebernard3062
    @denisebernard3062 2 роки тому

    We can relate to the morning shuffle of stuff. I love your honest video!

  • @renaemcdermott7989
    @renaemcdermott7989 2 роки тому +1

    Over 2 yrs ago, I started watching your channel which prompted my husband and I to purchase our Hymer Activ 2.0 with a reclining couch. Your truck camper was cool but I love that you are back in a Class B. We have since traveled in the Northeast US and Canada and will be headed Midwest in a few weeks. So glad to see you play van Tetris too. We purchased our Berkey water filter and our InstantPot on your recommendations and used your link. Love your content. Joe-love watching your Mom share in your adventures and also reading your books. Kate-have you released a cookbook yet? You make such healthy meals for two. I need your recipes, especially the spicy Chinese ones. 好吃 hǎochī. Enjoy your travels, I’ll be watching

    • @renaemcdermott7989
      @renaemcdermott7989 2 роки тому

      Kait not Kate, sorry for misspelling. Haven’t had my coffee yet

  • @mikeparkerson6492
    @mikeparkerson6492 2 роки тому +2

    Excellent video! Informative re. routines through the day. Excellent idea, excellent execution...

  • @SJ-ve3ul
    @SJ-ve3ul 2 роки тому

    You guys are adorable, thank you for sharing realistic, everyday van life. I enjoyed your candor and humor. Please keep making these videos.

  • @dondouglas3431
    @dondouglas3431 2 роки тому +1

    Thanks for the typical living day video you two! Don't know where you were but there are a couple of places in Oregon(our home state) that have those big Ponderosa trees and open ground underneath them. One of our favorite types of forest!

  • @TXGranny2
    @TXGranny2 2 роки тому

    Really enjoyed just the day to day van life. Thanks for sharing!

  • @stacyhackney6100
    @stacyhackney6100 2 роки тому +1

    Thank you

  • @SlowTransitTimes
    @SlowTransitTimes 2 роки тому

    You made me feel a bit better about the constant shuffle game in my Transit 😊