Winter Van Life Adventure: Driving My Van to the Arctic | Full Documentary | Living The Van Life
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- Опубліковано 8 лют 2025
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Join me on the ultimate van life adventure as I take my custom 2020 Mercedes 4x4 Sprinter Van to the farthest north you can drive in North America-in the dead of winter. This full-length documentary combines all the episodes from my 2023 Arctic series into one epic 3-hour and 40-minute journey, giving you the chance to experience the entire adventure in one incredible movie.
Living in my van full-time, I faced some of the harshest conditions imaginable-frigid temperatures, remote landscapes, and grueling terrain. This documentary is not just a road trip; it’s a true test of endurance for both myself and my Sprinter Van. From breathtaking scenery to life-threatening challenges, this is the ultimate winter van life documentary that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Whether you’re into van life adventures, overlanding in extreme conditions, or simply looking for inspiration to tackle the impossible, this video has it all. So grab your favorite warm drink, get cozy, and join me for this unforgettable Arctic journey.
Keywords:
Van life, Arctic series, full-length documentary, winter van life, 2020 Mercedes Sprinter Van, overlanding, North America road trip, Arctic Circle, extreme travel, van life adventure, winter survival, full-time van life, Sprinter Van life, ultimate road trip, Arctic winter, living the van life.
![A CRAZY decision and WILD Semi Recovery | Alaska Arctic Adventure [ MOVIE ]](/img/n.gif)
I've said this before and I will say it again. Chad, you are an amazing filmographer who captures everything in your adventures in an EPIC way. Every detail of this documentary is just a majestic and legendary saga, from the glorious cinematic views to the perfect music you choose to share this tale. Thank you from all of us followers...keep on truckin' ;-)
omelhorabrigo.blogspot.com/2025/01/winter-van-life-adventure-driving-my.html
Hmm well said
Was thinking the same thing. It is my first video I have seen of Chad.
@@Steve_The_Painter_WQSV I would encourage you to look at past videos my friend. You will be blown away! I’ve been following LTVL for quite a few years and he always exceeds expectations
Totally 💯 agree
The thing with long form videos is that it gets boring fast because the content isn’t there. But when a good filmmaker, photographer and narrator gets involved, well it’s epic! Few people can pull it off, And Chad’s LTVL does that all in one! Most definitely keeps me watching.
omelhorabrigo.blogspot.com/2025/01/winter-van-life-adventure-driving-my.html
Man I've been following you for years from a poor African country, I guess I'm your only subscriber in this region 😂 and I consider you living my dream.
I can't tell you how glad I was when I heard the Sudanese songs you used for editing in this video.
For a moment it felt like our realities aren't so distant.
Thank you for being opened to other cultures, this is the way to peace on earth.. Or at least on many hearts.
The song you used is called "Salam fi donya".. Which literally means "Peace on Earth".
This is beautiful on so many levels.
Yes! 🙌🏼 I figured it was Sudanese! 🫡 there's amazing music coming from your part of the world, mk.
And, funny - as a girl who lives in British Columbia at the foot of the Rockies depicted in this documentary, I dream of going to... Africa! 🙃🏔️🌲🪓🪵🔥🙌🏼
Africa is not poor
It's has the most needed material and minerals in the world.
Misguided as usual
@@sophiemarcaurele You are welcome in advance dear..
Africa will be honored. I hope your wish comes true, and I hope you will have a great time here.
Don't forget to visit Meroe Pyramids, and Dindir National Park, and Jabal Marra volcanic lake. 💙
Hi Chad, I just found your channel. Thank you for showing mind blowing footage of America's beauty, like no other! You have a gift to capture the essence of such beautiful creation, Earth. Very rare, to see a deeper view of the world as you did. I saw all 3 hours, on my tv, in awe. What a way to find your deeper self... Have a very blessed journey!
This! Yes thank you Chad!
Not just an adventurer but your film making skill is unrivaled!
The best creator on UA-cam imo. The quality of the photography is just superb.
When you looked up in the sky and saw that incredible glow of the northern lights that was God’s work, God makes art in many ways. We just need to see it.
For those reading comments before getting to them, or those who want to just want to watch and re-watch, it's at 2:28:37
So far, this is the best UA-cam video I have watched in 2025.
Agreed
LTVL thank you! Not a camper, not a survivalist, I don’t really have anything I can compare in my life like the videos you display. BUT I can say your videos are awesome and I listen to them all the time before I head to bed. Thank you and a. Happy New Year ‘25 to you!
this is simply genius, the content filmed here is incredible, it inspires so many people to get up and go... I can't believe how good these clips are, I'm currently an hour into this, you are at the ghost town, and it's giving me goosebumps, the narration through this film is so inspiring, please don't stop making these, as hard as they are to pull off, you are a genius.. truly inspired
So glad you've released it as a full vid. Love your work! I now how full on it is. Thanks for your time.
Perfect time around the holidays to relax a live the van life vicariously! Thanks Chad.
We need more series of you Sr. I love your videos and the way you capture life and your wisdom you share with us. You are a genuine person. Much respect to you Sr.
omelhorabrigo.blogspot.com/2025/01/winter-van-life-adventure-driving-my.html
I’m 49 years old and for a long time i’ve always wanted to start Van Life and Chad you have made me make up my mind, Thank you 🙏 this video is exactly what I needed to get me going! here’s to a new life on the road with Nature and myself.
Dude this is absolutely incredible. What a great movie.
Its actually a movie !!!
I've been holding off watching this journey for the right time
So amazing Chad, so amazing. Took me two evenings to watch. On my big screen with surround sound. Man, your music was phenomenal. Can't say enough about this.
68 years old here, and solo travel in my Land Rover. Always admired your van build, and maybe it's something I'll try next. ❤❤
Chad, your journey from Bellingham to Deadhorse in the dead of winter is nothing short of extraordinary. Watching your documentary was like living through the adventure myself, thanks to the stunning visuals you captured and the raw emotion you conveyed. Your Mercedes Sprinter Van truly became a beacon of resilience and home amidst the harsh North American winter.
Your courage, determination, and the way you embrace the adventure of van life are deeply inspiring. I've had my share of winter drives across Northern and Western Canada, but your journey has reignited my passion for exploration and the beauty of solitude in nature.
The mind-blowing visuals of the northern lights you included were the cherry on top, offering a spectacular glimpse into the magic of the night sky that few get to witness.
You've reminded us all how important it is to spend quality time with ourselves for a better understanding of our inner soul. Your adventure is a testament to the clarity and peace one can find when we disconnect from the daily rush and reconnect with our true selves.
Thank you for sharing your story, for the breathtaking cinematography, and for showing us what's possible when we dare to venture into the unknown. Keep pushing the boundaries and sharing your gifts with the world. Your work is not just a trip; it's a gift for the brain and soul. Here's to many more adventures, Chad!
Even though I watched all this when they were coming out, I'm happy you put them all together for us to watch in one sitting. Thank you and happy new year!
They wanted winter content. Here it is! Great stuff, Chadillac.
I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything so beautiful as the Hot Springs in winter! Wow ❤
I watched these videos and was fascinated to see the extent we go to for oil. Saved this for tomorrow to watch with a hangover. Happy New Year folks.
The timing of this is great, because I had just started rewatching this series last evening! Now I can rewatch it in one video!
What an adventure. This is a great quality and professional video. The nature is absolutely amazing, a huge thumbs up for this brave man. Best wishes from Serbia.
Bro make life like a movie🔥
Great video. Keep em coming. I was born and raised and continue to live in northern Maine-severe winter snow and extreme cold for about 4- 5 months out of the year. Using the proper winter tires are critical for getting anywhere effectively and safely. While your tires are winter rated (snowflake on sidewall) they do not compete against a true dedicated winter tire, whether studless or studded. The character of the rubber is much different, staying very soft in extreme cold. Additionally the pattern of siping and tread placement makes it outperform AT tires on snow and ice. Additionally, adding studs to that combination makes for a much safer option for what you’re doing. It’s worth the extra $$$$ to swap them out on a trip like that.
I used to live in the arctic,european arctic,its a differant world. I was working as a diver and fisherman,winter time,so slightly differant experience. Everything takes longer up there! You think your prepared then “surprise!” Mother nature tests you.
Everyday. I used to take with me my box of luck,its not a real box but more of a being prepared attitude,wether it was tools,spares,knowledge etc it was always in my box of luck. When some new eventuality presented its self, after this problem preventing that days activity was solved the knowledge or tools required were added to my metaphorical “box of luck” said box saved me and my crew many times.
Your welcome to use my box but you got to fill it up yourself. Enjoy the arctic! Its a stunningly beautifull place but be carefull too,it will chew you up and spit you out if you dont respect it. Matt🙏❤️. Edit,if your going for an extended period of time i would strongly advise taking a supply of vit d3 and k2. Enough for your entire stay. It will help in many ways,including mental strength if your going to be very remote.dismiss my advice to your peril.🙏❤️
This was an amazing adventure! I totally understood what you meant about feeling melancholy at the end. I just finished my own journey by vehicle across the country trying to avoid two winter snow storms. I am addicted to adventure. A trip that tests the endurance and mental state of mind is an adrenaline rush! I will keep following your adventures and pray you will stay safe!!
The best video by far on this channel. What an amazing ride you took us on. I would have loved to have been a passenger on this trip. You amaze me with your filmmaking.
Amazing music to drone footage, pictures r amazing
As a Sprinter owner, I approve this message.
❤ 1:13:04 Seeing the Aurora Borealis/ the Northern Lights for the first time near Fairbanks, AK in March 2024, was a spiritual experience for me. I felt like God opened His arms wide and said to me, "Valerie, I'm here for you!" It was definitely a moment of spiritual enlightenment for me. Seeing your beautiful pictures in this video brought back so many great memories! Thank you! ❤😮❤
Chad I have just watched ur video and I gasped with delight at the sights an sounds of ur film making skills . . I also cried😢 a lots as this has been my dream my whole life an u did it for me bless u my friend I could feel ur emotions through my tv screen I'm 61 don't have good health but here is a big thank you 🎉 from a tiny village in Scotland ( maybe your next adventure ) Margaret xx
Wow, one of the best video ever of the north. You deserve prizes for the filming of this amazing territory.
You made me cry when you showed the aurora borealis, it made me miss the north. Being from Canada and having been / lived up north….
Awww désappointéd just a little to not have seen Yellowknife, would have like to know how much it changed in the last 40 years
Great - amazing job. 🙌🙏 thank you for this
Your cinematography is stunning! These Alaskan views all throughout, and now the inside passage ❤
Very proud moment for you. You will have a wonderful story to tell your son about the blood sweat and yes tears it took to make this your very own farm.
CHAD, before I watch this AGAIN (My pleasure) I want to say from the first time I saw you on Nomadic Fanatic and then caught you later on you have been driven (Maybe a pun, lol). I have appreciated your work and learned so much from your trials and tribulations. I am currently on a mountain on Taiwan dialing in my possibilities for the future with a Ram flatbed. I just wanted to say thank you, safe travels, and see you on the road.
Most incredible, Amazing Journey Ever. Absolutely Epic.
An absolute must watch, a true adventure from start to finish with an overload of beautiful photography and vistas (especially the northern lights section...some mindblowing footage).
Thank you for this wonderful, immersive production - one of the best presented I have ever seen.
Wow…I was watching a review on a car, then this video just started playing. I was hooked instantly. AMAZING!!!! So beautiful. Thanks for sharing ❤
Wow, one of the best video ever of the north. You deserve prizes for the filming of this amazing territory.
You made me cry when you showed the aurora borealis, it reminded me of how much it was the closest I felt to source and it made me miss the north. Being from Canada and having been / lived up north….
Awww désappointéd just a little to not have seen Yellowknife, would have like to know how much it changed in the last 40 years
Great - amazing job. 🙌🙏 thank you for this 🎉
plus amazing choice of music 🎶 also
What a thrilling ride it has been to just watching your adventure. Just sat through the whole video and thoroughly enjoyed. Love from India ❤️
Hello from Michigan
My wife and I watch a lot of van lifers videos. Your channel on content and video is WAY over the top... just breath taking WOW. WOW. WOW ❤
You, my man, are doing an awesome job 👏 👍
Never have we seen such stunning shots. Thank you for doing such professional work ....
Thankyou for sharing such an incredible journey. It can be difficult to capture the beauty of one place, you have managed to do that very talented and a lot of dedication. I wish you all the best on your next journey 😊
Good to see ur videos once again Chad. Thanks for sharing. I’ve always admire wat u do can’t experience it in my life but can thru u. Injoy the adventure n stay safe. Blessings ur way..❤😊
What an adventure !!! Only one most of us dare to dream about. From the bison, to the northern lights, the glaciers and everything in between. The cinematography in this is second to none. Absolutely incredible chad !! Loved the last one, but this years is just epic ❤
Chad, we found you here on youtube scrolling through to find something interesting to watch. Your journey was captivating. Your photography and storytelling are priceless. Thank you for sharing your journey!
I just finished watching your amazing adventure, I'm watching you from the state of Wisconsin, and I want to thank you for sharing such an amazing journey, I admire you and continue your journey, God bless.
Superb!!!
Thanks again brother for the experience, if you ever get lost and find your way to the central Texas area just swing by and I’ll make sure to have the replacement sink lid that’s bowed ready for you. We very much appreciate you sharing your story brother!
thank you 🙏 for this video
Fantastic video, Thank You! Greetings from UK.
Currently watching the video and to see Skagway completely empty like that is eerie and wild all at the same time. I was up there in August on a cruise and the streets and stores were so over crowded with people. Every store you went into there were no less than 50 people. This video is incredible to see Alaska from this point of view.
This was fantastic! Thoroughly enjoyed every bit of it, thank you so much ❤️🇦🇺
Best thing I have watched in a long time. Subscriber from the UK here and can’t express how fantastic your documentaries are sir, from the music to the videography and the honest and raw intent in your narrative. I can’t imagine the preparation you must put in to these trips not just in your vehicle but the technology and with yourself mentally and physically to bring it all to life. I tip my cap to you sir, just excellent.
Thanks for watching and being part of the channel. You very kind words are much appreciated. Keep on truckin!
Agreed, Chad is the man!
I love your video! Beautiful. Wow.❤
The scenery feels like it’s from another world. It’s amazing. Here I am thinking that driving 3.5 hours to find a trail is a long drive for me. I’ve seen other video of arctic journeys but this one is just on a different level. Great job! 😊
Yoooooo this video just made my night. Watched it all the way through. Some of the highest quality content I’ve seen. Always appreciate the time you take to post this stuff Chad. Cheers!
I'm speechless. Absolutely beautiful. Thanks for taking me on the journey..Stay Safe Chad...
Great timing for the video. I was supposed to go to the Arctic Circle with my Huskies for a week-long sledding adventure but I got sick. Now I can enjoy your great storytelling.
Sitting again on my rowing machine for the next part of this video. What an incredible Journey you did. And the quality of the footage is really amazing. Looking forward to the final part. 👍
I can relate- as a truck driver a good night sleep means everything. Something I take for granted when I’m at home
My favourite is how organized and clean everything is in your van💪
Wow! I woke up from an amazing sleep to your vid. How crazy it is that my son and I are planning a trip to Alaska for his 17th birthday.
Something about this region is majestic. I have always loved to travel, but then life happened in my 20s. Now, that 20 years have passed…I have a new found wonder for other cultures. I traveled as a young child internationally and then suddenly stopped. I find the beauty in all people, places and things. I am not sure why I happened to find this video, but thank you. It reminds me to go back and watch the film-Into the Wild and then also the film 126 hours. Thank you for this stellar film. You’re an inspiration to many.
I drove across Canada in the dead of winter twice now. Nova Scotia to B.C. Yes it can be a nail bitter , we went all upper Canada for the full winter effect 😂 u gotta treat it like a sailing expedition reading all charts available to you and frequently. Loved it. I even packed spare wheel bearings you don’t wanna be stranded out there !
Incredible video. I can barely stay tuned into movies, but I stayed up to watch this in it's entirety. Thanks for sharing this incredible adventure
I’ve been patiently waiting to spend NYE ‘24 watching this journey unfold finally 🥳🎆🎊🙏🏻✝️ The most incredible vanlife adventure, yet 🤩
I got to make 3 trips up and down the Alcan when we moved from the DFW area in Texas up to the Kenai Peninsula south of Anchorage. Great drone work brother. Film making skills are top shelf. Canadian Tire is the best 12:48 👍🏻
My LTVL hoodie is now ordered. Been binging your vids all week. Hope you had a great NYE!
New Sub…What A Great Vid/Documentary/Movie!!! I Love Long Videos ❤ You’re Fabulous With The Editing, Explaining Everything. I Will Be Binging Your Vids…Thank You For A Relaxing, Breathtaking Adventure!!!
This was epic, amazing. The photography was some of the best on YT. The views from the solarium were unlike anything I have ever seen - makes me want to see it in person. Great job, Chad!
till this day i would say this is one of the best documentary you made .thanks chad.
TYVM for taking me on this adventure! I did this in an rv in 91 from Ky to Alaska and all over Alaska! Will never forget it! You deserve an award for the great filmmaking and editing. Great Job!! The AH was gravel then btw.
I can’t believe you kept me glued for 3hrs 40mins. A wonderful video and journey
Wow! What a journey! Thrilling and beautiful all at once. A must watch.
🎉....I always say that you are the best content creator for me on UA-cam. Your videos are legendary and deserve support and views. Thank you very much!.😅😅
Alaska will remain in your heart forever, Happy New Years 🎉
Did it for two years. I’m currently sofa-surfing… it’s frigid out there. Be safe buddy! OBTW, I subbed to ALLEN-de also.
Never watched a so long video before 😂. But holy moly it’s 100% worth it. Awesome landscapes, especially the Atigun pass area. Good job, Chad! Keep strong, healthy and go on with this fantastic experiences! Greetings from Germany 👍🏼
And in a German vehicle!
@ Right. And I live nearby the Mercedes hometown, Stuttgart. It‘s great to see what the Sprinter van is capable of 🙃
❤️ 1:54:21 The Arctic Circle sign along the Dalton Hwy. Yep, I was there too. Our tour guide took us a few miles further into the Arctic Circle than the famous sign, but then we turned around and headed back. We even were able to hold a Cheeto in our hands and extend our arm and the pigeons would perch on our finger and eat the Cheeto. Such a fun experience! ❤️
Just awsome!
Chad good to see you again
Great work 👌 again
Everything fits perfectly in your movies. Also when i'm tired and only listen , it just calming
Another absolute epic film 👏🎬
Love it mate, keep doing you 🫡
Epic adventure. We traveled to Prudhoe Bay in 2019 from FL pulling a tear drop trailer. On the road from July to Sept and had a great time. Being on a time crunch as you were you missed a lot along the way. Our 2019 trip was great, so great in fact we did it again this year, taking four months. Being retired we have lots more time, so our average drive time per day was around 4-5 hrs. Plenty of time to stop and explore. Delta Junction you can get a certificate saying your drove the ALCAN. Had you gone to Homer, you could have gotten one saying you drove to the end of the road. In Prudhoe Bay we did the Arctic Plunge (yep, got that certificate as well). Really enjoyed watching this as it brought back fond memories.
I applaud you. You're living your best life and don't let anyone tell you different.
You doing it the way I would do it and I'm glad to see you showcase all your videos the way you do. Keep on doing it brother
What an amazing experience you’ve shared with all of us. I’m not fully convinced you are alone based on the amazing cinematography. I’d hate to find out on TMZ that you had a production crew. I mean that as an extreme compliment. Truly impressive.
Dude hands down a amazing video. The video quality, the editing with music selection is on point. Great job much love! Keep up the great work my man!
I enjoyed the trip with you, my brother. It was pretty cool. Thanks so much for sharing this! You definitely achieved something that was so awesome. Take care and God bless you.
Great video..
Everyone should take an Adventure similar to this, at least once in their life.
I love traveling at that time of year, when it's Fridgid Cold as Heck.. This video brought back a few great memories.
I've been on many of these road trips, being an Owner Operator Semi-truck driver.
The worst ever weather trip I had was in February 2004. Traveling from Leviton Electrical in Brooklyn NY to just North of Montreal Canada to a new building job site, to deliver three 15000 pound spools of electrical cable. It was a bitter cold -45°.. When you would be out in the cold for just a few minutes and then get back in your warm 60° truck, it felt like you're jumping into a blast furnace. Never had a hot water sauna type pool to bath in, out in the forest.
Have a good day..
What great thing posted at the perfect time to bring the New Year in for the partiers as myself who ring it in with a quiet drink at home! I had certainly watched the series but I’m definitely watching! Happy New Year, Chad and all your viewers!
All I gotta say this was the most amazing van life video I’ve ever seen. Thank you for making this trip, it was breath taking with the footage you got.😅
You are the best❤thank's for your very nice Support in this year. Best regards from germany Uli❤😎👍✌️thanks a lot
Absolutely amazing! Beautiful! Thank you for sharing this amazing world with us. Allowing me to see things I would never get to discover is an absolute blessing and I Thank you. Safe travels 💜🦋
❤️ 1:39:07 Chena Hot Springs! Yes! I was there too! What a rush to walk outside in a bathing suit in such cold weather and be able to relax in the hot springs! It was pretty comical how the girls who dunked their head into the hot springs, and when they came out of the water, their hair was like icicles! Another fun memory! 😁 ❤️
I came with you to Alaska. I've always been a Gypsy at heart and I had mixed feelings about your journey. Everything felt so dark and cold at the gold town. I wondered where the people were. Did they stay in all winter? The only thing that kept me watching was the pink sky and your smile. You were having so much fun!
Be safe and thank you!
🙃2:23:32 🙃We're here - at the top of the world - this is it - I made it - now what do I do? 🎆CELEBRATE! That's what!🎆 😜Waaahooooooeeee!🤪
Thanks for taking us along for the ride.🤟
I thought it was ominous, that clip showing the van start its assent up Atigun Pass panning over to the warning sign and the heavy music.
Just brilliant!!!
Been a long time coming! Can’t wait to get stuck into this one👍 Happy new year from big fans in the UK
What an EPIC journey! You're so brave. Thank you for taking this journey and bringing us along with you on this dangerous trek. I was praying for you as you were in the last leg of reaching your destination, especially the mountain pass! I would have never been able to see this without you! What a beautiful place. Thank you so much!
Your smile getter wider and wider the further you go!
Amazing ! The views are breathtaking and beautiful!!
This is just amazing. Those northern light shots were beautiful.
I pray that I get to experience the northern lights before I pass one day first hand. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and your photos brother! I love your channel