Some other suggestions. Not all vans or vehicles will be this large. It helps to have things tightly compact in some areas to prevent things from flying around if you cant tie it down while you drive. There are multipurpose propane space heaters and stoves. Maybe have water storage in some capacity. Try to make sure you have a really good sleeping bag incase of cold winters. You can affix old carpet to van walls or extra blankets in order to insulate further, thats a technique used in small older russian cabins to keep warm. Make sure to have flashlights and maybe something to protect yourself with.
Very bourgeois Bob! About $700 Amazon Trifold 4" memory foam mattress. It's as comfortable as my bed at home. Will also insulate from the cold. I used it in my Prius V on a simple plywood bed I made. A piece of plywood would even out the weight on boxes or bins... For over twenty years I've slept in a combination of sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, or bed sheet and a merino wool top. You can make a terrific sleeping bag liner out of a couple yards of fleece, zigzag stitched along the bottom and a side. No hem is needed. Find a lighter weight fleece and a heavier weight. With a good sleeping bag (and not a Wallmart 'looks like a sleeping bag') I'm good for all seasons. And I would buy a memory foam pillow. When I went to Vietnam to join my friends on their sailboat to sail to Canada I bought one for me and one for my crew buddy. (In fact on my boat, in my car and in my home I have memory foam and these pillows. I can wake up and not know which one I'm in, which I get a kick out of.) Moving blankets are inexpensive, very warm and versatile. I'd hang one on the wall next to the bed. I like office boxes. Cheap, they stack. Driving, let them slide around the floor. Duffles are great. It's easy to find lightweight ones that roll up tight and are easy to put even in carry on luggage. I like this. I might fly someplace just as an excuse to try this.
I live full-time in my airstream at 6000ft, it gets cold, and use sleeping bags on the walls, windows and floor. I have extra blankets and towels on the floor so my big dogs stay warm and dry when it rains and snows
Other suggestions for of you own the van: Got a metal frame off of Amazon, twin size, sized to fit the Sterlite for lockets underneath. About $110 when I bought it. Twin memory foam mattresses are cheap at Walmart, and offer great insulation to sleep on. I have an old surplus wool blanket for warmer weather, and the light and heavy military sleeping bags for winter. Easy system to pick the layers you need. The foot lockers are more expensive than totes, but once you get weight in them, they have wheels on one end and are easier to get in and out from under the bed, and can accept a padlock. Four of them fit under the bed. I kept my clothes in the newer style military duffel bags (that have a central zip). The two duffels and four foot lockers are all the storage I ever needed. The camp chair and TV tray are good ideas, though I just kept a padded waiting room chair in mine. Makes a great little camper, and even Van Life home.
I had a house fire at 14. Had never moved and the town brought in a wrecker for what was left of the place. It taught me to not be attached to things. Camp life, van living, and bus living all speak to me. So my family camps and has go bags just in case. Every child has their own. These tips show how to be dignified while living differently.
🤍 losing your home as a young child gives a person a different outlook. I like to keep my life simple, minimalist at heart. Staying in a house is too traditional for me, I'm more comfortable with a nomadic lifestyle, carrying just basic items. No need for attachments to non-living things. While I am getting ready for my next phase of travel I am enjoying some things that are not suited to gypsy life.
My first home burn down when I was 7 or 8 years old and unlike you I think I made a decision that I wasn't going to lose it all again and as a consequence I tend to hang on to things. With the help of the clutterbug site I have changed that attitude and now with Bob's site I am considering van life.
Thank you for being one of the very few posters who don't think they have to have all the 'top of the line', name brand, way over-priced gadgets and equipment. Nothing disappoints me more than to watch a video where they have all this high priced stuff that a 'normal' person can't afford. Theirs is more for show (and showing off) than for practical use. Most expensive is not always the best.
Thank you SOOOOO MUCH. I’M about to become homeless and I’m terrified. I have a Nissan SUV and you have shown me that I can live with dignity in my car. If you can do it in Alaska I can do it in North Carolina.
Take comfort in knowing you can do this! I have a Jeep Cherokee and outfitted it for living! Way comfy bed by putting the back seat down, I fit perfectly on a single self-inflate pad and my sleeping bag... hot night, just my jammies with the sunroof open and netting (no-seeum, self- made to fit with magnets) to keep the bugs out. Etc. Keep watching UA-cam for solutions. Awesome and easy! Choose to Embrace the Adventure of it all. You are no longer homeless. You are a traveling adventurer, seeking what's next up the road!! Blessings!!
My friend Bob You are truly a gift and I thank you for helping to save my Life almost 4 years ago. I was trapped in an abusive marriage and didn't know how to leave and get out of it, until I discovered your channel. You taught me how to convert my SUV into a micro home and start a new life... The past 4 years have been the best years of my life and it's all because of you. I really like these videos because it reminds me of how I got started and I pray that others are watching this video and finding their new Hope too! I Love my SUV Life and I love you, Brother. Your Kindness and Love for your fellow brothers and sisters is overwhelming and I wish there were more people like you... Again, thank you so much! Stay safe and be Blessed
That is so wonderful, made me tear up. So glad you got out of that relationship and have had happy years since! Friends helped me leave an abusive relationship decades ago, I am still grateful.
Thank you for speaking out. It is still an unfortunate stereotype that only women and be abused. Due to your thoughtful comment and the channel creator, perhaps other people will find the confidence to escape. Stay safe and God bless.
Great video. Im a retired expat living in Thailand six years. Everything great here- people nice, warm weather, low rents and gost of living, travel inexpensive, things to do... Love it here, would never go back to the US. An option for a low cost retirement. Stay safe!!
I'm seriously considering that as a viable retirement option and location. Could you maybe tell me how to get started preparing for that and do's n dont's I've never been to Thailand but was thinking there or Philippines just would like some knowledge from someone in the know. I'm working and saving a ton of money now for that. I'm thinking 5 to 7 yrs maybe as soon as 3 to 5.
You are obviously highly intelligent. But man. Cut the hair and beard a lot. Easier maintenance and cops and strangers are more likely to ignore or help you. Just sayin
@@scottowens8474 Philippines is expensive. Im from the UK and go there regularly. My UK grocery bill for example is half the price! Fruit, veg, yogurt is ABSURDLY expensive. Im looking for a place in Asia to retire to also and am gonna check out Thailand next. There are some advantages to the Philippines - its very westernized. Pretty much everyone in all the big metros speaks English. The Americans left their mark - fast food is worshiped there along with massive pickups and SUVs. So to an expat from the west its a easier once you hit the ground there. However the bureaucracy ....well theres no getting away from it and that applies to all the S. E Asian countries. The next awesome thing about the Philippines is their tourist visa. You can stay 3 years as a tourist, leave the country and come back for another 3 years. You just keep extending the visa at a local immigration center. These a usually in a mall. Its a great system.
A bad experience I had was mold. Condensation formed on the inside of the van on the bare metal some of my things wet. Before I knew it mold had formed and I got very sick for a week. My solution was to use reflective styrofoam insulation as a moisture barrier. It actually helped to moderate the temperature swings inside the van too. Anyway, watch out for condensation. It's not an obvious problem but it can kill you if you have respiratory issues.
That foam sounds like a good idea. I would also add an additional layer of thick quilts or comforters for sound and thermal insulation. And it will look better than bare walls.
After 10 years leaving in my Dodge Van, I learned a few things, I can't stand it all ways in my knees, insulation is very important in summer is hot as hell and in winter like a cooler, electricity I got a harbor freight solar system for $ 200 dlls plus the marine battery from Walmart $ 120 small freezer for Free and I have electricity 24/7 fresh food charger for my cell and lights , Coleman two burner with 20 lbs propane tank I don't like the condensation mold and rusted issues but in winter is ok to cooking in side the van , 5 gallon bucket for bathroom and cleaning in the daily basic, public Storage to keep dirty laundry and values things and just the basic in the van for in case of someone braking in keep moving around my work and be low profile, leave early and get back in the dark and be smooth, good look for all you friends. Since Dallas Texas
@cheapRVliving A tip for the toilet. 5-gallon bucket. 13 Gallon trash bag of a decent thickness. Add a few cups of Scoop Away cat litter or other brand of clumping litter. Snap a toilet seat with lid on to the top of the 5-gallon bucket and you're done. Now you don't have to worry about if the bucket somehow got tipped over with liquid in it. The litter has a slight scent, so that's nice. If you do #2, pour some litter on it to contain odor and start the drying process of the litter. You can use whatever litter you want, but having had cats for most of my life, I've found this Scoop Away clumping to be best. Fresh Step clumping is my next choice. At your convenience, pop off the toilet seat, tie up the bag, toss it in a dumpster. The litter will have clumped and contain the waste inside the bag.
You don't need a toilet seat. In fact, they're so small that a guy has to rest his junk on the front of the seat bc the hole is too small to accommodate butt and dong, simultaneously.
As a truck driver i use the 5 gallon bucket for both. Take your bucket and line it with biodegradable toilet bags and kitty litter. When you urinate in the bucket it will become solid and will not smell. This will be more sanitary and keep you from pouring 🫗 out liquid. Also get the lid for the bucket 🪣 just help with smell until you dump bag.
My thoughts exactly! I have a 1999 E150, started out just like this but without the cot, although I have a cot for my tent when I actually use one. This life style is freeing and fun once you get the hang of it!
Agree 100%. Lots of great info. I have a 1991 Ford Class B motor home. Only 90K miles on it, but it's 33 years old and if I break down on the road and the MH is in the shop for a while, then U-HAUL van will be the answer for me. Just transfer what I need from the RV into the U-HAUL plus a few things I'll need to buy. Great idea.....THANKS.
I miss it so much 😢 ive gained 60 lbs and life has just lost its quality since i had to move into a house. My van finally hit around 380,000 miles when it broke down it just wasn't worth fixing. So I rented a room and somehow or another it's been 3 years and I'm still living in these people's house 🤷. I miss van dwelling. Life is a shadow of its former self.
@davidradovsky5354 For me, it gives me freedom to actually have a life. In an apartment, I'm more homebound. Everything I need is with me and I can explore the world and find all kinds of things to do and enjoy beautiful scenery. Beats being stuck in an apartment all day everyday.
You did NOT mention laundry - easy - get a large water tight container - fill it with water add washing and washing powder - close it - and as you drive the washing gets done - next day rinse with water - and hang out to dry - I have done that a lot = works fine
The toilet bucket - remove waste bag - thats your ' double duty ' laundry bucket - need to wash it out ( even tho lined with bags ) periodically anyway.
He said solar and led lights, also solar can charge cell phones and those little battery power dvd players so there is entertainment and commucations for whatever friends or 911.
I lived in a shed in Rocky Point ,MX for 3 months after I moved there for a job that fell through the 2nd day. I had almost nothing but I went to the Bodega/Walmart/Sams club (both next door to each other) and bought a super cheap charger with a little solar panel and it played my 7" DVD/screen (bought at a pawn hop for $9 US) and charged my phone for the entire time : )@@lonknight3197
A few years back we lost our place and had to live in our car. Thank God we had a generator. Our back seat was our bedroom and the front seats were our living room. We kept most of our furniture in a storage unit. We kept our clothes in gym bags. We used our generator as our kitchen countertop and used a hot plate and buddy burner to cook with. Home is what you make it and it is definitely where the heart is.
Not even sure why I clicked on this video. Don't care about any of this stuff and don't plan on living out of a vehicle. But, I'm glad I watched it. I was briefly homeless several years ago and did live out of a van. If I had known these basics I could have been comfortable during that time. I also can't know that that situation will never happen again. Most people should probably watch this video at some point.
@grlnexdoorable lol, the reflectix is bubble wrap sandwiched between flexible foil, so it doesn't pop like the packing material. Yes, regular bubble wrap sure would be noisy on a bed.
I have ran into some people lately who become homeless and are homeless, I gear them your way to learn how to live comfortably in a vehicle. I am grateful that you have the best platform to do teach this. I myself live in a 22' trailer off the grid and I've learned a lot from you. Thank you!
You can also volunteer with feds for maintaining parks. For camping and essentials in exchange for your work. Seniors and disabled "Reach out America" plan is less money out of the bank. Disabled plan is free see your local Park Rangers they are friends to those who help!
I grew up a carny kid and living in a travel trailer was all I knew. The last one I lived in was 1974 Impala 27 footer. It had everything md Father and I needed.
@jbman413 the "disabled" national park pass gives half-off nightly camping rates. The pass itself is free but proof of disability from social security is required.
This PROGRESSIVE gov does not care about you the individual. It wants money and power,power, and more power. Must be careful what you say to whom you say it. Where you are when saying anything considered a criticism of this government.
A while back I flew out to Vegas and rented a mini-van for a week and drove over a 1000 miles hitting several national and state parks. PreVid this was about $170 for the week rental with unlimited miles. I had a max size duffle stuffed with a tent, sleeping bag, pocket stove, air mattress, bug screen, and toiletries. I picked up a 5 gal bucket, gas for the pocket stove, some food stuffs, and a couple 40 packs of costco water. It was an amazing time. How I miss cheap rentals.
I did this exact thing this past summer with my girlfriend and we slept in a grand caravan all throughout the eastern side of the sierra Nevada's. It was 117⁰ in death valley. We idled the car for ac more than I'd like to admit. We got our van on Turo. Was cheaper than regular corporate rentals.
Sir, I hope you understand how much this video means to me. I am a homeless nurse who has no family or friends. I live in my Mazda. My son lives part time with his dad thankfully as he got a spot through his job. On the weekends I had been in/out of hotels and airbnbs. To keep my son housed during my time with him. Unfortunately I fell behind on car payments even working FT. And the repo man found me yesterday. He dropped my car out of pity. God bless that man. He felt so bad. And told me my time was limited. I was wracked all night. Crying. I gathered myself and am collected. Finding solutions. Your video came up in my search. You have saved me from sleeping outside. This is the perfect idea for what I need. I even have a mattress in my storage unit I can throw in and sleep around the corner from my job so as to not lose it. God bless you. I pray you are well 🙏
I eat canned chicken and tuna it’s cheap. Heat up premade packets of rice, along with cold Veggies. Chicken rice veggies cheap and easy. 24 hr gym. This allowed me to save money. I was used to the lifestyle I was a long haul trucker.
A real big issue with these kinda vans is the ventilation and the lack thereof in the cargo. Cargo vans are not built for humans to sleep in, so this is a huge problem. IF you can't air it out daily, condensation water will collect everywhere on every metal surface and window, and soon mold and even fungus might grow all over your things and food. Not to mention the smells, esp from the bucket if you don't empty and clean it after every use. You might want to use a proper old fashioned nightpotty or a medical bedpan for comfort and line it with a trash bag or 2 for every use, then clean the potty, dry it and store it inside a dry bucket with a tight lid. And use it outside the van as much as possible, you literally shouldnt shyte where you eat and sleep, even one splash of ur waste spilled inside will rot and stink up the whole van... (there's a reason our ancestors had an outhouse outside the house before flushing was invented). The ventilation will really affect your breathing and health, smell and discomfort, and heating/cooling of the van depending on the weather outside. This is why most vanlifers either buy a pricey RV built for humans, camping trailers or need to build at least ventilation and insulation in the DIY vans... aint easy. Best of luck and keep on trucking!
This is very good advice for someone who doesn't have the money, tools, or resources to actually do a van "build." I've actually did my own build-out, but I was staying at a friend's 40 acres farm who had an actual mechanic's "dream" garage with any tool for my use. He even helped me with welding a solar rooftop rack as well as mechanical work such as all new brake components of my older model van. Once I had a bed of some sort in the van, I actually began sleeping in the van while still building it out to get used to sleeping in it before hitting the road full-time in this van. It allowed me to see what I actually needed in the van and what I could do without since I had to downsize... again. I think it's a great idea to "live" in your van at a friend's or relative's home or property BEFORE going full-time time on the road... it helped prepare me for my adventures yet ahead of me.
You can get a multi pack of magnets and a few $5 moving blankets and put them on the walls and ceiling and even floor to stay much warmer in the winter. A roll of painters masking tape is useful for so many things, and cheap. I highly recommend it.
I thought about moving blankets from harbor freight for extra padding on the cot. Never thought about using them for insulation. Harbor freight has all kinds of things that might be handy for this.
@@Freakazoid12345a couple of ideas…an aluminet tarp over the vehicle will help reduce solar gain when you are parked. I see one on Amazon for $30. Inside, try and get some sort of insulation at least on the roof, whether aluminum faced foam board or even layers of cardboard. Gorilla makes a double sided tape that may work to hold it up. For the windows, screen material and magnets are the cheap and dirty way. And if you can spring for it, an 8” rechargeable camping fan to help move the air. Ours cost $40. A couple of non-van tips…stay hydrated, and put your feet in cool water. Honest. It’ll cool the whole body down.
Maybe a silly idea but - for someone in Anchorage (considering the distance from the lower 48 and such), maybe pick up a lot of this gear and offer to rent it out as a temporary vandweller kit to folks flying up and renting an empty van. Visitors wouldn't then be trying to figure out what to do with all the gear they got when it's time to go home.
I spent a year in a 1967 Schevy Van back in 1983. My setup was an air mattress and an old 5-drawer dresser strapped to the wall. I cooked over an open fire and shit in the woods. That was the best time of my entire life.
I've been watching your videos for years, Bob. This is one of my favorites. It was clear and concise. The way you broke it down by function/room really clicked for me. Thank you!
I agree totally that this is one of my favorite videos. For myself my only other additions would be a fan, lighting, and to have heat. That of course can come from our one burner propane stove, as we know in the past you showed us how to make that work. 👍 Also, a way of charging things. That is my problem with my van as I have a Jackery but no real way of charging it except by running my van. 😢😢😢
Added note. You can setup a hammock diagonally in a U-Haul van. I hooked it from the front drivers side on the security gate to the back passengers side top corner. I'm 6' 3" and it worked great.
You can also purchase a power station (yes, expensive, but life changing) to power all you stuff: television, phone charger, refrigerator, cooking burners, heater, etcetera.
But power stations don't power. They are simply batteries. I would rather spend the money on solar panels to charge my phone (which is our everything there days) without wasting gas idling the engine which these days is important. You don't want to have to burn gas while parked.
I'm living in a prius camper, upgrading to a 12v Setpower refrigerator/freezer & a Power Station connected to 2 flat solar panels in addition to the Prius hybrid battery.
One thing I never see people do is something I figured out a while back. Get a pump sprayer like the ones in gardening sections of Walmart and use that for having running water. You can even put hot water in it. Also, for cold nights get a hot water bladder. Fill it up with warmed water and you have a nice extra long lasting heat to get your sleeping bag warmed.
If you get a stainless steel sprayer you can heat your water on a camping stove or small fire. After three years in an off fridge yurt I finally figured that out for a warm shower!
Also you can get a winter thermal heavy duty tube sock set and fill it with dry beans, they're basically rocks stones and small rocks work too if they're roughly the size of a pea. I like beans better because they have an aroma that I enjoyed, it reminded me of earth and soil. Anyway fill the sock mostly full with the beans and tie a knot at the end. Then when you're in a cold climate or have a sore back and are traveling pop that sucker in the microwave at the next food stop. Most gas stations that sell refrigerated food like burritos that need warmed have microwaves. I found 4 to 5 minutes for about 3lbs a beans to be perfect. I initially made it for my sore back but found that when traveling in cold climates doing this and then snuggling up with it kept my blood and core temp in an optimal range for great sleep.
You can use plastic water bottles and fill with hot water, it's cheaper and likely more durable then a water bag. Plus you can always get a new one very easily.
Nalgenes hold hot water very safely without leaking. A traditional old school British Standard hot water bottle (thick rubber with radiant fins) is the best in bed water bottle.
This is the most simpliest, straight forward explanation that i need. Ive been searching in youtube about this but i all i get is conversion, convert this, build ur van to that, etc. I dont have the proper tools to make my van fancy. I just want this. Thank u so much👍👍👍
I did it, and now live comfortably, rent free with a lot of incredible views. I also told my girlfriend there were two people I wanted to meet and ran into both of them on my journeys. It can get lonely but overall I would recommend it.
I am transitioning in the next 5 years from institutionalized living to living freely, and I am happy to find this channel to help me. I now know what van I would like (gmc econoline) and that I don't need a ton of money to covert it to my needs.
A great suggestion for short term budget living, well done!! An awkward suggestion here to improve on your men's pee catch / holder. Every laundry mat has a trashcan full of empty downy type fabric softener containers. Find a large container and hold the open empty container under HOT water for a few seconds and the inside funnel thingy will pop right out! The screw on top will seal perfectly should the container fall or dump over and is very easy to rinse or clean with soap or disinfectant and looks innocently like a fabric container and there is no lingering odor! I have used these for years in tent camping and when a restroom is far removed, when in a public place. S. Carolina
Don't know why I never thought of this. I've used Arizona tea bottles, which were about 1/2 gallon and dark brown color, so at a glance you can't tell what is in it, but they've since discontinued that size and switched to clear plastic, which makes it too obvious what it's full of. I would think that liquid detergent bottles would also work, and they're even more common.
I use water bottle for Bicycles as pee bottle, lg mouth easy in bed at night and then pour into 1 gallon jug like windshield washer fluid. Dump when I find a bathroom. Ect. Keep it simple! I use jackery 1000 to power entire van. Rechargeable lights, No wiring needed! Jackery has 3 AC, 4 USB and 1 12v outlet. Can be quickly be charged a AC, Or DC and is Solar Ready.
@@bettymiller1308 i just ran the numbers and for 2 weeks and 100 miles of driving its like $600 for the rental. two weeks. $43 a day and you can drive it (but its 89 cents a mile to drive it)
When I was younger, went on honeymoon/vacation in a Chevy Nova wagon. Slept in the back, cooked on a hibachi on the tailgate, for 2 or 3 nights, then got a hotel for one night to get cleaned up and catch up with the world. No laptops or cellphones back then. Worked out pretty good! Were able to travel farther and longer than we could have possibly afforded if we had to stay in hotels all the time.
I know it’s probably a girlie thing, but I would add a rug. You can buy an outside one that is waterproof/washable for a fraction of an indoor one, and it just adds a real homely feeling to the space. You can take it outside when it’s warm to put your chair/cooking items on, and then take it inside to not only look nice, but it adds a layer of insulation from the floor. 😀
Very inspiring. A person in a bad situation can live reasonably comfortable and with dignity on a tight budget once they get a van or a pickup with a canopy. Very doable. Thank you, good sir.
As he has shown they could rent a van if need be. When compared to renting an apartment this van is pretty cost effective so long as you don't rack up a bunch of miles.
@@MA-mh1vs Yes, however, there is a sign in many rental vans that specifically states no sleeping in the van, so be careful. On the other hand, van rental companies do sell their vans...and the more banged up, the cheaper they are.
@@dross24MA Yeah, but then gotta prove it and whatnot. Mostly, they don't want people making permanent modifications, but everything in the video can easily be removed
I went to Oahu about 20 years ago and rented a van at 11 o’clock at night. The next day I went to a Kmart and bought a air mattress. Went to a secondhand store and bought a couple blankets I picked up a cooler. A few other things and I stayed for 12 days in a van right by the beaches. It was amazing I’d do it again, but I would go to the big island next time Oahu is a concrete jungle! Didn’t care much for it spots were pretty. I bought some cheapie, snorkeling gear and snorkeled everywhere I could, until I saw a big ass tiger shark then I was done going in the ocean!!! Just before I flew out of Hawaii, I pulled into a park and gave everything that I had including the food in the beer and a bottle of whiskey to a bum in a park. Made his day!
I agree with you about Oahu. Waikiki Beach is just sand and water with no marine life-boring. My favorite island is the Big Island. Amazing nature there AND all the comforts. It’s my favorite place on earth.
Going to be homeless in a month. Have been watching your videos. Thank you for sharing. In Alaska so your heating videos have given me a good directionto start. Mike
I actually lived in a U-Haul van identical to this one for about a month. Two years ago I was about to make a 1,200 mile move and had to be out of my old place a few weeks beforehand. Because it was so temporary I just lived out of my suitcase and got a twin air mattress and a five gallon potty bucket. I actually used kitty litter in it and scooped as I popped 😂 It worked! I stayed in a few local parking lots where overnights were OK. I was able to shower at a friend's house a few times a week. The $20 a day was a Hell of a lot cheaper than a 4 week hotel stay!
@@Loyannelima I'm absolutely fine, thanks for asking. I've been a backwoods hiker and camper all of my adult life, so I just thought about it as camping. Frankly an air mattress in a van was a big upgrade from how I normally camp 😆 It was only for a few weeks and the potty bucket was only for emergencies lol! When ya gotta go...well you know...
What’s the price per mile on these vans? There’s no way it’s $20 a day unlimited mileage. I would probably be cool to do this. If I could put an electric bike or a bike on the back where I could use it is my primary beat around chore bike, but I don’t think it’s very feasible to be running the van around all day if you’re paying a ha Mileage rate.
@@thaicraft1219 I was in Northern Arizona then and they charged 50¢ per mile at that time. (November 2021). I was Extremely Fortunate in that I only needed to drive very minimally. My other vehicles were my "ChevroLEGS"! The mileage is where there can really "Getcha" if you're not careful. As I understand it, the "per mile" charge really depends on your location. I was very Lucky in that my situation was only short term and all I really did was sleep in there.
@@thaicraft1219 This was DEFINITELY NOT a long term solution! I only used it for a few weeks in a very small town where basically everything i needed was within a short walking distance. If I "REALLY" had to be somewhere at a certain time, it certainly sufficed as reasonable transportation.
Hi Bob your video helped me get started with little to nothing. As a newbie to the van life I really appreciate knowing a cheaper way to live in a van. Everything is so expensive, but this is affordable for me. I'm smiling inside and out with relief. Keep safe always ❤ Thank You.
@@Pjbuck55 Anyone, you just have to be tired enough :) Regardless, he said 'bed on floor' not 'on the floor'. Meaning, save the $120 on the cot, and throw a cheap air mattress or pad on the floor to start with if you need to.
@@MandrakeDCR How about two large coolers or some plastic storage boxes and a span of plywood ($49 1/2 inch)to make a bed platform? Or for a riser use a free wood pallet you see being tossed.I would think that even 12 empty plastic soda bottles - capped- would keep plywood 3 inches off the floor if you are going for super low cost.
I've been living in my car for years, it gets difficult sometimes like staying warm in winter & comfortable in hot summers, I'd park close by 24hr quick trip or other stores for bathroom, usually didn't have many options for showers but maybe 18 Wheeler overnight truck stops have showers sometimes, I'm 46 but I've never been happy with giving money away to renting when you're hardly even there working a full-time job, I'd like to have an apartment but it's either live week to week broke renting or live less comfortable & have a little better money, it's a shame Americans can't afford to live without becoming broke every week...
All major truck and travel centers such as Pilot/Flying J, Loves, TA, Petro, America's Best have showers. I get most of my gas at Pilot/Flying J and use their awards card. The points add up for showers, etc
One trick for organizing totes is to get cheap pillow cases from thrift stores. I started doing this as a way to sort bundles of audio cords for my sound equiment, and it makes it so much easier to get what you need faster. I found a bunch at a Goodwill for a dollor or less.
Bob: Similar to your experience: I once drove about 200 miles south to a family reunion in Central Florida. No motel reservations, was astonished to find nothing available under $100/night. Went to Walmart, purchased tent, sleeping bag, and inflable mattress for about $50. Slept fine (in local graveyard near my uncle’s house). Still have gear many years later. 😊
One of the best channels on UA-cam! My recommendation is getting a gym membership to a 24/7 gym, means you can shower, go toilet and get fresh cold water! Can go twice a day and no one would bat an eye! Here in New Zealand you can get a membership for $7 nzd a week! Pays for itself and gives you some exercise and movement! Also would say staying warm and a way to make hot food and hot water is a must also :)
The 5-gallon bucket method is GOLD. Terrific when camped out, but hands-down life saver when on the move - so good to have a quick, clean, reliable place to do your thing than try to hunt down a place to stop only to find the facilities in dreadful and unhealthy condition. Like Bob, I "double bag."
Small bag of sawdust to absorb. Put some in bottom of pot (lined with garbage bag) then sprinkle some on top. Sawdust is sold for animal bedding. Its cheap. Also he didnt mention water. Very important
For temporary arrangements like this you can put a run of the bubble wrap along the wall beside your bed to keep the cold from the metal radiating against you when you sleep. Also look in regular stores damage clearance sections for goodies, too. I recently picked up a $49 copper type frying pan for $5 because it had a dented rim. It would have worked just fine with the dent but I hit it with a piece of firewood and it came right out.
I've also seen stuff like the lining that goes under rugs for cheap either at carpeting stores as remnants, or at places like Ollie's (liquidation stores), or at places maybe like the 're-store' out here in PA (they sell a lot of home stuff like doors, windows, home framing stuff, similar things.). Anything like that can be used for some decent insulation in those cold vans in winter.
I got 2 4'×6'thick rubber mats from Ollie that fit perfectly in back or my Promaster van! Good insulation padding on areas that I walk on and keeps things on floor from sliding around while I drive. Many people do So much overkill insulation their van floors. I just have 3/4" OSB and those rubber floor mats. Wear socks +or slippers.
A closed cell sleep pad along wall you sleep next to really helps block cold and Beat as well as padding if u bump into it? I was usb rechargeable lights w magnets. Can put where u want, any metal surface take off and move around, use as flashlights ect and don't have to do any wiring? Led string lights are super easy way to add white +or color lights and an put up, take down if u put on temp light rental van? No permanent wiring needed.
After at least 25 years of living in vans, the only advice I can really give is that the simpler the better. You just don't need a bunch of extra crap. Just something comfortable to lay on and a way to keep your important things out of your way. Some emergency supplies for day-to-day Unexpected things come in handy too. You can add things like stoves and coolers, mini potties, curtains, all sorts of stuff of course but its not necessary. Part of the beauty of the lifestyle is that it forces you to get out and about. If I'm going to live somewhere and spend a lot of time inside, why would I want to be in an 8x5x5 space? An unbreakable water jug and a wide mouth chamber pot jug are the first two things I would grab besides a mattress of some sort. Foam being preferable because of its light, weight and flexibility. You'll have enough free time to source whatever else you'll need as needs arise
@@sharonmorine5407 Really, its the same way as if you're sick at home. You can even have food delivered or get instacart😊. The only thing you need to do extra is find a safe place you can stay for a few days without being disturbed. That could be BLM land or whatever. My husband and I live in a 6x10 trailer which we got confined to for 10 days when we both got covid in 2021. We decided to actually pay 30.00/day to stay in a campground so we would have the luxury of hook ups, and a small store which the owners were kind enough to deliver us food and ice from and check on us. Like you said, when you're sick you just want to hibernate and you can do that in a bedroom or a trailer 😊
I may be losing my home due to the land I live on being auctioned off very soon. no words can describe the pain I feel over this, but buying a van will solve some problems. So thank you for the advice!
I lost mt husband in April and my home at the end of Feb, so I can relate. I am wanting to live in a van, but 1st have to deal with cleaning my home out. Hang in there. Hugs
Thank you everybody! Didn't realize there was kind people out there. I did find a van! And 08 Honda Odyssey with many options and a ton of room! I still don't know what's going on with my home believe it or not. It's been weird here, but at least I have my van. Thank you everyone. I will keep you updated. And good luck to those looking for a van. Everything is so damn expensive these days!!! Wtf! 🤷😔
They sat all it takes is money to get started. I have the ambition and desire to become a nomad. In fact, it was always my retirement dream but I was forced into an early retirement and havent been able to save more than a few thousand dollars. Every time I watch these videos, I get more and more discouraged. I like to wish all the nomads out there the very best of luck and please stay safe. Id also like to thank Bob for all the wonderful videos and would appreciate any advice Bob or anyone else can offer. God Bless, Mike
While I don't plan to live in a van, it's great knowledge to know I COULD do it, if I had to! You just never know what life will throw at you. Many thanks to you Bob, for all the information you share in your videos.
When it comes to Thrift Stores I've learned it's best to go to the ones that are in the Richest communities you have access to. People of a higher income then me tend to donate better quality, lightly used items. Their Thrift Stores don't really price things higher then other Thrift Stores so well worth checking out. I like the simplicity of this temporary build. Made my Limo/Shuttle Bus conversion interior to be modular free standing items that can be locked into place using the floor and wall strut channels that once held the bus seats in place. This allows me to move items, redesign the interior, quickly and easily as my wants and needs change. Can also quickly pull the modular items out to use the bus as a big empty truck, for hauling whatever can fit through it's doors. And if, heaven forbid, I ever need to replace the bus. All my interior components can easily be moved to a new rig, getting me back on the road with minimal time and cash required.
Dude yes, this is my philosophy with finding clothes on the road. My finds got so much better when I stopped going to the hobo end of town and instead went to the rich people area where none of the kids care about the $100 hoodies their parents bought for them. Now I have infinite clothes that are nicer than anything before. All i buy is laundry detergent now lmao.
Badwill - they are profit driven will sometimes ship things from a higher end local store to others to mark up prices or they sell online. And no they do not do anything charitable if you dont know.
@@freedomisfromtruthI stopped donating to Goodwill quite a while ago when I found out that their CEO is making an insanely high salary. Instead I give my stuff either to a homeless shelter or thrift stores that help the poor.
@@freedomisfromtruth Goodwill used to be the jam. Not so much anymore. I've found that when you're really desperate, Walmart will have cheaper clothes. Yes, I know about "fast fashion" and the exploitation of workers, BUT, when you're desperate, you'll get what you can. Obviously, donated things are preferable, but it may not always be available. Also, Goodwill charges more for Walmart clothes than Walmart charges. 🙄
For a year I’ve been trying to figure out how to visit Alaskan National Parks, and I couldn’t figure it out the logistics until this video! Wow. Thank you Bob. 😊
Induction hot plate works nicely when electricity is available. Dorm fridge has held up well for us- run it off a Bluetti (bolt it down!). We like the cartridge toilet, it flushes, doesn't spill, doesn't stink.
Home Depot and Amazon have a 3" memory foam 24" x 72" for $35 thats worth it IMO. A person couldnt keep their phone or laptop charged without a battery pack and solar. That's another $400. That's essential for finding boondocking or thrift stores. An issue with 2nd hand bedding is BED BUGS. I found out the hard way.
DC to AC inverters can cost $20-$50 and will charge your chargeable batteries while the engine is running. You'll need more power storage if you're also bringing a fridge or need to run a C-pap or something all day and/or night. But if not, those inverters work well enough and is a much cheaper option than solar and a decent sized power station.
another tip for anyone who is squeamish about going potty in a bucket- buy yourself some extra heavy duty garbage bags to line the bucket and every time you 'go' just add a scoop of scented kitty litter. it keeps anything from getting to messy and stinky before you can dispose of it.
Thank you Bob. Another great & informative video. Showing us in this economy how we can survive and be ok. My current rent for a 2 bedroom apt is $1727 m and this is what I'm seriously considering after my lease ends. Doing my research and watching your videos and skills are helping me to prepare. Keep them coming and take care out there.
That is crazy high and I live in Scottsdale AZ! When I was thinking about buying a place and the mobile homes were going to be $1400 to $1600 for rent for a 2 or 3 bedroom with 2 baths. To purchase a basic 2 bed 1 bath was is $400 to $800 depending on the park for land rent plus a mortgage of $130 a month. it might take some work but its worth it.
Consider investing in a passenger van or SUV over a commercial vehicle like a cargo van. Mainly bc nothing beats well engineered insulation. I did a conversion on a commercial vehicle with home Depot insulation and it didn't really keep warm. Compare this to when I stayed in my SUV. The SUV is always 5 to 10 degrees warmer (this the morning temp the next day). Also it stays cooler under the sun - all by design since these vehicles are designed for temp control unlike commercial vehicles. If I were you I'd look into a really large SUV like the GMC suburban for the extra room. These UA-cam RV conversions can look very cool on video but they're not all that cool in real life unless you're really resourceful. Been there, done that. Comfort, privacy and the incognito factor become very essential in van life and you only really get that in a regular passenger vehicle not with a commercial vehicle... I finally went the route of can life in my Honda pilot and I'm very happy with it.
This video is just awesome! The first thing I thought of was people in vans that need repair work done, or have broken down, and they will have to be in the shop for any length of time. We could just rent a U-Haul and live in it temporarily! Cheaper than a motel! And definitely more peace of mind, because the repair work on our van is stressful enough.
I used to do this with an SUV and a Peterbilt mattress so I could work out of town without paying for a hotel. I used to camp out at planet fitness, I would walk on a treadmill and watch TV, use the showers, and it wasn't a bad lifestyle.
when you need to do something , you can do it. I lived in a tent on the beach for years. now I have a room to sleep in. I got my tent out recently and went out to camp on the beach and It was so bad I had to come home. My point is that when you need to you can. God gives you strength in times of trouble . peace
Super helpful for me. Getting ready to buy a van but tackling the conversion seems a bit overwhelming. This way I could start living in it and look for some help with the conversion. I am a 'little, old lady' and NOT very handy lol! Thanks for the inspiration :)
I’m 51 and just purchased a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica to start the Van life. Well, after 2 days of having the Van, it turned out to be a lemon. ( engine problems) I won’t give up tho. God, will bless me with something better😁🙏🏻.
When I was living in my van for a few months while going to school last fall I grabbed a set of those double door bug screens with the magnets that hold them together and the Velcro strips that you can use to install them. I slapped that up in my rear door frame so I could prop my door open a crack at night or during the days and have air movement without being eaten alive. Worked good.
I convert my work van(Chevy Astro) to living van because I worked out of town. All I did was purchase a twin mattress and a few other things. Spent close to $300. Slept at the base of the Bay bridge for 4 months before the position was available in my town.
Thanks for sharing your ideas. As a 72 yr young camper I always have the urge to head out on the road and explore this great country. Shopping at a Goodwill, Habitat Store or tag sales saves you a lot of money. Also the blankets that Harbor Freight sells are ideal for using on a bed for warmth. Get the larger one. Also the wool blankets sold at Army Surplus are ideal for bedding. Thanks again
Goodwill is sadly super expensive now :( they were selling a used cheap/Chinese mallet from the dollar tree for 4x the money, years later, ripped toebox cheap shoes (trash) for a lot of money (think they were $30) and it would never be discounted, I think since the sticker didn't have a color. go to small mom & pop thrift stores, I bought roller skates (that were work issued, heavy duty) for $3, they happen to be clearing their all of their shoes :)
Hi! I'm a Scottish/English lady in the South with a 22' van camper. I've been camping all my life. Want to meet up somewhere? I love the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico in the Fall.
Yes! Thrift stores! I would make my list with your suggestions and hit the thrift stores first. Then go on to the Walmarts and Home Depots for everything else. Well, the actual first thing is packing what I can bring from home. Such a practical, useful video! I would want to add lights and heat source to your list, but we would all likely add things that would take the list from just the basics.
Great thing about cell phones is you can look things up on the spot. Is this a good deal? Usually yes, but I’ve seen used things marked more expensive at a thrift store than Walmart. Not often, but it happens.
Lots of storage if you hang things from those horizontal boards on the side walls. Get one or two mesh nets. Or some of those cheap mesh market bags at a dollar store.
It all depends where you're located. I did my van living in Oregon, and I would not recommend it to anyone. If you don't have at least a couple of safe and dependable longterm locations to park and sleep at night secured in advance, don't even think about it. You will not be welcome in most towns and a large percentage of RV parks/campgrounds do not allow vans. This isn't 1975. Go to a supply store and get some pellets that they use to bed down horses. Put some in the five gallon bucket lined with a trash bag. That way you can both urinate and defecate in the bucket and don't need a receptacle for each. And with the pellets, the bucket won't stink. Don't use kitty litter. You need to empty the bucket at least every two days, and finding trash cans or dumpsters in town to throw away your bag of pellets and human waste is going to be much harder than you think it is. Especially when people figure out what you're doing--and they quickly will. Get ready to be treated like a homeless person by almost everyone you meet. The hardships of living in a van will quickly put its stamp on you, and people will definitely notice You need to set up an alternate power system using a deep cycle marine battery so you don't quickly kill your van's battery. You will kill your van's battery because you will be spending A LOT of time in the van, but with the alternate power system you won't kill it as quickly. Google it Winter living is quickly going to wreck your van. And it will quickly wreck you too, especially if you don't have dependable sleeping arrangements secured in advance. And van living is almost guaranteed to make you more tired, stressed and incomfortable than you ever suspected that it would, even under the best of circumstances
This would make sense in a Class C RV if avoiding camp grounds. That way there's no Black tank to empty, only a grey tank from sink and shower water. That can be done in any storm drain in the city. I'm in the shopping stage of an RV, but don't want to pay $50 - $75 a day for RV parks. I'm sure people won't like that either.
I've watched this video at least 3 times already because the information is so valuable! Hi by and I have been talking about vanlife for YEARS and I'm ready to GO. But he's not. So I told him I know what I want for my birthday this year: I want to rent a cargo van and outfit it similar to this and test it out for a few days. He's watched this video with me, and thought you presented great ideas, Bob. But when I told him I actually want to DO this, he looked at me askance. 🙄 Too bad! One way or another, by the end of this year, I am going to be realizing my dream of Vanlife. Even if I have to do it part-time and on my own!
Why do men complain about money so much, but when you show them alternatives to SAVE money, they immediately put on the breaks! I want to do this so I don't have to pay high hotel prices when I travel from the East to Texas to visit my daughter. Also, spend more time stopping to see things on the way. But my husband is bent on flying and renting an expensive car, or driving interstates and staying in hotels. I just hate it! After seeing this video, I might have to work out a plan on my own. I'm 75 and can't afford to keep waiting on him to catch up to me!
Bob, an important part of choosing a pad is the R-value. This is the rating assigned to how the pad is insulated to keep the body warm and to add warmth along with a sleeping bag. R-value of 4.9 to 7 or 8 will keep one warm in 30 to 15 degrees. Just som added info. Great setup, by the way.
I did a very similar thing in Halifax Flew in rented a van 6 packs of U-Haul blankets. $20 a day + mileage Only got 1 hotel room my last night so I could shower and get free shuttle to the airport YHZ
i am taking a Thanksgiving trip from TX to IL in my F=150. I do not have a camper shell so I will be sleeping in the back seat. I have found that three 72" x 80" shipping blankets from Harbor Freight on the backseat adds insulation and comfort. I also bought a butane stove and heater for limited use inside. I also bought window covers from Weather Tech to insulate and block out light. With blankets and a pillow, I should be okay.
My military know how and Bob’s tips and tricks…I have no idea why I’m not living nomad life. I did briefly live in my Honda Odyssey around town and I loved every second of it. My dog has a seizure disorder and I believe that’s what’s keeping me grounded. 😔❤️🙏🏾
I'm in Texas where heat is an issue for sleeping. A friend of mine started with a full sized van and built two cots out of flat aluminum to cover the wheel wells. To cover the open windows at night he used plastic window screen, cut oversized, with magnets sewn in around the edges. For rain protection (when the windows were open) he used 7' long poles with a short spike on the top along with a tarp. He installed new grommets for the spikes to stick through and held the 4 corners tight with marine grade bungee cord staked to the ground up to the spikes. The tarp covered the top and dropped down the sides forming a personal car port. The places we camped always had facilities, so we didn't really need a kitchen, living room, or bathroom.
this is my issue as well, i live in houston and i’m thinking of doing van life for a while because rent is just too high. but the heat can get insanely crazy idk how i’d be able to be comfortable during the day
A european perspective on the channel : the american pioneer like spirit is still well and alive, whatever the reasons and courses of life. My respect for you people...
I just lived in one for 10 days last week while my van was in the shop being repaired (in San Diego) and also in June for 3 days when I had some repairs done on my van. It's a little more expensive depending on what you do, but still a fairly cheap option. It's $19.95 a day, plus .79 a mile , plus about $10 a day (if you buy their insurance), plus tax and gas @ $5 a gallon, but, it's much cheaper than renting a motel as long as you don't drive around much. Just a couple of suggestions. There is no ventilation in the back at all and no insulation in the van. A lawn chair helps if you want to sit somewhere and don't have a cot. The windows aren't tinted much, so bring curtains. Charging ports are up in the cab so you can't reach them from the back if you need to charge your phone you have to be up front. The sliding side door can be heavy if you're parked on a slant and the lights on the ceiling stay on when opened . I disconnected them and then reconnected them before returning it. Good idea for saving money.
Funny, I came across this video because I planned on renting one for camping. I didn't realize you can't get to the cab from the back? I tried renting a cargo from a rental company (they have unlimited miles) and they canceled on me less than 24hrs before I was supposed to pick it up! So I thought, I'm going back to trying a UHaul, but I don't know if I like not being able to get to the cab.
Me too. If anything happened late at night that spooked me, I'd like to be able to not have to go outside to get to the the driver's seat and drive off. @@deanngardner5578
Sleeping on a cot in the cold can be the worst with out some proper insulation. For insulating a cot use a sleeping pad first, then cut some Relectix to size, then fold a wool blanket to fit the cot ( in thirds or a quarter) This is your cot and base. A down comforter for on top of you. In really cold climates cover the comforter with a mylar blanket. The pad, Reflectix, wool set up will give you a warm soft sleeping surface.
Yes sleeping on a cot without a barrier will lead to getting cold. I had to sleep on a cot in the military even though I was in a warm sleeping bag the part of my body against the cot was cold from the air underneath I got up put a sleeping pad underneath the sleeping bag which helped insulate me and was able to sleep comfortably. I would also add use closed cell foam instead of an air mattress
Good video! If I may add: trash can with extra bags (could be another 5 gallon bucket with lid), a 5 gallon bucket with lid can also be used to wash clothes, and another 5 gallon bucket with lid for your toilet with a full trash bag of sawdust (or cat litter) to sprinkle on top of your bodily wastes as it keeps the smell down! Removable roof-top solar panels with solar battery for any electronics. Use large totes instead of plastic drawers which are not very mouse proof (voice of experience, unfortunately) and if you don't use anything that needs refrigeration you can store everything in these totes! A cot side organizer is very helpful for use like a bed-side table for glasses, flashlight, nighttime drink, pee bottle (don't mix them up), etc. A over-sized thick rug will make the interior much cozier. IHMO sleeping bags with removable liners are warmer and easily adjustable for temperature and an inflatable sleeping pad is lighter weight for the insulation value. Make sure you have lids for those pots and pans. I would use the bottom drawer of the metal file cabinet for the propane and/or butane stove because it's at the back of the van where a pan fire could just be thrown out, you can cook from the inside or outside, you'll get better ventilation for the fire and just shutting the drawer will have stove (and maybe pots and pans) out of the way. Don't forget a small fire extinguisher (the drawer will help contain a fire) and a good first aide kit! Also, especially if you're planning on being out in the sticks for an extended period I would add more water storage (a water filter)and a tent to allow you more camp site room! The biggest down side IMHO with van camping/living is the lack of security! I pick-up-truck camp in spring/summer/fall and always take along my red heeler dog; 50 pounds of muscle and fury, a great companion and pretty warm as well! If you can't (or won't) carry a firearm then bear spray works well on people too! And a spray can of cooking oil makes a short-lived flame thrower but can be very hazardous!
Instead of sawdust or cat litter how about coffee grounds? I hear cafes throw away bags of this every day. Pretty sure you can use it in composting toilets
I know we all have to face retirement some day. But you will truly be missed Bob. Thanks for everything you have done help the homeless and those in need. Wishing you much enjoyment during your retirement.
I have lived in a cargo van for quite sometime. Renting a uhaul van is my back up emergency plan. I am most comfortable having a plan b and even plan c. I think my van is special because it is my home, however it is just a machine that can break down no matter how well maintained or how handy a person is. This excellent video is such a good example of how to set up a van home, quickly with very little investment. This could work for someone wanting to give van life a trial run. Go on a vacation on a tight budget. A person could use many of these ideas set set up living in car temporarily. The basic essentials are pretty much the same for any home. Personally, I would add a hot water bottle to my list of essentials. A hot water bottle isso awesome to warm your feet, hands,take the chill out of your bedding before you crawl in. Jetboil is another item I wouldn't like to be without. I have had the same one for more years than I can recall. I use it at least once every day. I have cooked whole meals on it. Using an ordinary kitchen pot. I uses sheets & blankets, regular bedding in my van home. In a quick temporary set up I would use my mummy bag and a couple of small lightweight blankets. That is assuming I had access to bring these things from my van home to a temporary/rental van. Thrift store shopping is not budget friendly. It can also be entertaining. I have intended found great quality items that are often a step up from something that I have already but even better. Or something I wanted or needed but could not afford at full retail. They also give me the opportunity to donate things I have that I don't need or use. I.e. I had high quality heavy duty pots from my house that I brought into my van. I had too many, they were way bigger than I needed in the van. So...when I found more suitable cookware I donated the pots that I had that were too heavy and bulky for vanlifmetimes we get the opportunity to give back. I think Bob Wells is a tremendous example of a humanitarian. Thank you so much Bob Wells.
Absolutely blown away by this video! 😱💪 Turning a van into a comfortable home for just $365 is not only incredible but also insanely motivating. The creativity and resourcefulness showcased here are off the charts! 🚐💡 Every DIY solution and budget-friendly hack shared in this video is a game-changer for anyone dreaming of van life on a budget. Major kudos to the creator for making this transformation accessible and inspiring. It goes to show that with a bit of ingenuity, dedication, and a tight budget, you can turn a simple van into a cozy home on wheels. 🌟💼 Loving the practical tips and the can-do attitude of this channel. Keep up the fantastic work - you've got a fan for life! 👏👏
You can rent a U Hal for a limited amount of time but If you want to keep it for more than a week, buy it to add permanent changes and until you sell what you buy. I think someone mentioned putting in something permanent but Bob was renting a U-Haul and not putting anything permanent in it.
What's great for me about this video is that I could rent a van and try out this idea before actually committing to buying a van. I'd like first to know what it would be like to live in a van and if I would want to. Plus I have most of the stuff I'd need already at home.
One consideration would be overnight parking. A lot of places are hammering down hard on overnight/unattended vehicles. The Walmart by me gives employees parking stickers so if they work early or late than store hours they won't get towed.
Probably wouldn’t work in a rented U-haul with writing all over it, but years ago I read about a traveler who would park in car repair shop lots. Come late, leave early. No one would notice a “strange” vehicle as all the vehicles are temporary. Even the mechanic driving by seeing a vehicle that wasn’t there at closing time would think someone just needed unexpected work done. Never tried it, but thought it was brilliant.
@@Pinetree282this also works out well when you actually need work on you vehicle. We did this for a few nights visiting the town we were stuck in and sleeping in the van parked at a mechanic.
![[Camp Hiatus] Tanay, Rizal | Riverside Camping | Couple Campers | Bluetti EB3A | Blackdog Tent](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/xoosmk5CdiY/mqdefault.jpg)
Some other suggestions. Not all vans or vehicles will be this large. It helps to have things tightly compact in some areas to prevent things from flying around if you cant tie it down while you drive. There are multipurpose propane space heaters and stoves. Maybe have water storage in some capacity. Try to make sure you have a really good sleeping bag incase of cold winters. You can affix old carpet to van walls or extra blankets in order to insulate further, thats a technique used in small older russian cabins to keep warm. Make sure to have flashlights and maybe something to protect yourself with.
Very bourgeois Bob! About $700 Amazon Trifold 4" memory foam mattress. It's as comfortable as my bed at home. Will also insulate from the cold. I used it in my Prius V on a simple plywood bed I made. A piece of plywood would even out the weight on boxes or bins...
For over twenty years I've slept in a combination of sleeping bag, sleeping bag liner, or bed sheet and a merino wool top. You can make a terrific sleeping bag liner out of a couple yards of fleece, zigzag stitched along the bottom and a side. No hem is needed. Find a lighter weight fleece and a heavier weight. With a good sleeping bag (and not a Wallmart 'looks like a sleeping bag') I'm good for all seasons.
And I would buy a memory foam pillow. When I went to Vietnam to join my friends on their sailboat to sail to Canada I bought one for me and one for my crew buddy. (In fact on my boat, in my car and in my home I have memory foam and these pillows. I can wake up and not know which one I'm in, which I get a kick out of.)
Moving blankets are inexpensive, very warm and versatile. I'd hang one on the wall next to the bed.
I like office boxes. Cheap, they stack. Driving, let them slide around the floor. Duffles are great. It's easy to find lightweight ones that roll up tight and are easy to put even in carry on luggage.
I like this. I might fly someplace just as an excuse to try this.
that one is rly small honestly
I live full-time in my airstream at 6000ft, it gets cold, and use sleeping bags on the walls, windows and floor. I have extra blankets and towels on the floor so my big dogs stay warm and dry when it rains and snows
what happens when the rental lease is up on the truck ?
Other suggestions for of you own the van:
Got a metal frame off of Amazon, twin size, sized to fit the Sterlite for lockets underneath. About $110 when I bought it. Twin memory foam mattresses are cheap at Walmart, and offer great insulation to sleep on. I have an old surplus wool blanket for warmer weather, and the light and heavy military sleeping bags for winter. Easy system to pick the layers you need.
The foot lockers are more expensive than totes, but once you get weight in them, they have wheels on one end and are easier to get in and out from under the bed, and can accept a padlock. Four of them fit under the bed. I kept my clothes in the newer style military duffel bags (that have a central zip). The two duffels and four foot lockers are all the storage I ever needed.
The camp chair and TV tray are good ideas, though I just kept a padded waiting room chair in mine.
Makes a great little camper, and even Van Life home.
I had a house fire at 14. Had never moved and the town brought in a wrecker for what was left of the place. It taught me to not be attached to things. Camp life, van living, and bus living all speak to me. So my family camps and has go bags just in case. Every child has their own. These tips show how to be dignified while living differently.
🤍 losing your home as a young child gives a person a different outlook. I like to keep my life simple, minimalist at heart. Staying in a house is too traditional for me, I'm more comfortable with a nomadic lifestyle, carrying just basic items. No need for attachments to non-living things. While I am getting ready for my next phase of travel I am enjoying some things that are not suited to gypsy life.
My first home burn down when I was 7 or 8 years old and unlike you I think I made a decision that I wasn't going to lose it all again and as a consequence I tend to hang on to things. With the help of the clutterbug site I have changed that attitude and now with Bob's site I am considering van life.
Thank you for being one of the very few posters who don't think they have to have all the 'top of the line', name brand, way over-priced gadgets and equipment. Nothing disappoints me more than to watch a video where they have all this high priced stuff that a 'normal' person can't afford. Theirs is more for show (and showing off) than for practical use. Most expensive is not always the best.
Thank you SOOOOO MUCH. I’M about to become homeless and I’m terrified. I have a Nissan SUV and you have shown me that I can live with dignity in my car. If you can do it in Alaska I can do it in North Carolina.
Always remember, you're actually cleaner and more comfortable than people were a couple of hundred years ago
Take comfort in knowing you can do this! I have a Jeep Cherokee and outfitted it for living! Way comfy bed by putting the back seat down, I fit perfectly on a single self-inflate pad and my sleeping bag... hot night, just my jammies with the sunroof open and netting (no-seeum, self- made to fit with magnets) to keep the bugs out. Etc. Keep watching UA-cam for solutions. Awesome and easy! Choose to Embrace the Adventure of it all. You are no longer homeless. You are a traveling adventurer, seeking what's next up the road!! Blessings!!
You have a vehicle so you’re not homeless; you’re house less! Lots of folks wish they had a vehicle right now!
I lived in my converted truck bed cap for a year and had never felt healthier between the fresh air and daily planet fitness visits
I wish you the best of luck man, it's a rough life but we gotta keep fighting for ourselves 👍
My friend Bob
You are truly a gift and I thank you for helping to save my Life almost 4 years ago.
I was trapped in an abusive marriage and didn't know how to leave and get out of it, until I discovered your channel. You taught me how to convert my SUV into a micro home and start a new life...
The past 4 years have been the best years of my life and it's all because of you.
I really like these videos because it reminds me of how I got started and I pray that others are watching this video and finding their new Hope too!
I Love my SUV Life and I love you, Brother. Your Kindness and Love for your fellow brothers and sisters is overwhelming and I wish there were more people like you...
Again, thank you so much!
Stay safe and be Blessed
That is so wonderful, made me tear up. So glad you got out of that relationship and have had happy years since! Friends helped me leave an abusive relationship decades ago, I am still grateful.
Thank you for speaking out. It is still an unfortunate stereotype that only women and be abused. Due to your thoughtful comment and the channel creator, perhaps other people will find the confidence to escape. Stay safe and God bless.
Yes... his name should be changed to, "Bob Hope"😊 Because he's given hope and happiness to so many people! Stay encouraged.
I'm so happy you got out. I've been there. It's a long hard road to recover after but worth it. ❤
Thank goodness you escaped and created a great life for yourself!!
Great video.
Im a retired expat living in Thailand six years.
Everything great here- people nice, warm weather, low rents and gost of living, travel inexpensive, things to do...
Love it here, would never go back to the US.
An option for a low cost retirement.
Stay safe!!
I'm seriously considering that as a viable retirement option and location. Could you maybe tell me how to get started preparing for that and do's n dont's I've never been to Thailand but was thinking there or Philippines just would like some knowledge from someone in the know. I'm working and saving a ton of money now for that. I'm thinking 5 to 7 yrs maybe as soon as 3 to 5.
@@scottowens8474 Cambodia or Laos are much better value than Thailand nowadays. There's a lot of videos on YT about retiring to them
You are obviously highly intelligent. But man. Cut the hair and beard a lot. Easier maintenance and cops and strangers are more likely to ignore or help you. Just sayin
@@scottowens8474 Philippines is expensive. Im from the UK and go there regularly. My UK grocery bill for example is half the price! Fruit, veg, yogurt is ABSURDLY expensive. Im looking for a place in Asia to retire to also and am gonna check out Thailand next. There are some advantages to the Philippines - its very westernized. Pretty much everyone in all the big metros speaks English. The Americans left their mark - fast food is worshiped there along with massive pickups and SUVs. So to an expat from the west its a easier once you hit the ground there. However the bureaucracy ....well theres no getting away from it and that applies to all the S. E Asian countries. The next awesome thing about the Philippines is their tourist visa. You can stay 3 years as a tourist, leave the country and come back for another 3 years. You just keep extending the visa at a local immigration center. These a usually in a mall. Its a great system.
A bad experience I had was mold. Condensation formed on the inside of the van on the bare metal some of my things wet. Before I knew it mold had formed and I got very sick for a week. My solution was to use reflective styrofoam insulation as a moisture barrier. It actually helped to moderate the temperature swings inside the van too. Anyway, watch out for condensation. It's not an obvious problem but it can kill you if you have respiratory issues.
That foam sounds like a good idea. I would also add an additional layer of thick quilts or comforters for sound and thermal insulation. And it will look better than bare walls.
What about heat and ac?
Luci solar lanterns are great for inside and out. They even charge cell phones.
Mold can be controlled with bleach and ultra violet light
I wonder if an air purifier would help. Needs electric but peaks my interest.
Wise words.
After 10 years leaving in my Dodge Van, I learned a few things, I can't stand it all ways in my knees, insulation is very important in summer is hot as hell and in winter like a cooler, electricity I got a harbor freight solar system for $ 200 dlls plus the marine battery from Walmart $ 120 small freezer for Free and I have electricity 24/7 fresh food charger for my cell and lights , Coleman two burner with 20 lbs propane tank I don't like the condensation mold and rusted issues but in winter is ok to cooking in side the van , 5 gallon bucket for bathroom and cleaning in the daily basic, public Storage to keep dirty laundry and values things and just the basic in the van for in case of someone braking in keep moving around my work and be low profile, leave early and get back in the dark and be smooth, good look for all you friends. Since Dallas Texas
@cheapRVliving
A tip for the toilet. 5-gallon bucket. 13 Gallon trash bag of a decent thickness. Add a few cups of Scoop Away cat litter or other brand of clumping litter. Snap a toilet seat with lid on to the top of the 5-gallon bucket and you're done.
Now you don't have to worry about if the bucket somehow got tipped over with liquid in it. The litter has a slight scent, so that's nice. If you do #2, pour some litter on it to contain odor and start the drying process of the litter.
You can use whatever litter you want, but having had cats for most of my life, I've found this Scoop Away clumping to be best. Fresh Step clumping is my next choice.
At your convenience, pop off the toilet seat, tie up the bag, toss it in a dumpster. The litter will have clumped and contain the waste inside the bag.
Peatmoss is cheaper and more effective
Great idea?
No human being should have to do that
You don't need a toilet seat. In fact, they're so small that a guy has to rest his junk on the front of the seat bc the hole is too small to accommodate butt and dong, simultaneously.
@@ndbobby1, many people in the world have to go into the woods or something. 5-gallon bucket is big improvement over that.
As a truck driver i use the 5 gallon bucket for both. Take your bucket and line it with biodegradable toilet bags and kitty litter. When you urinate in the bucket it will become solid and will not smell. This will be more sanitary and keep you from pouring 🫗 out liquid. Also get the lid for the bucket 🪣 just help with smell until you dump bag.
Mixing it together turns it into sewage. Separating allows the waste to eventually become compost. Which you can get away with disposing.
And camping/hunting stores sell a toilet seat designed to fit onto a 5 gal. bucket. $12.
How to go 2 without going #1
@@sandycastles7105 go #1 first
@@sandycastles7105 Men can do it easier than women.
This may be one of the most important videos you've ever done in my opinion.
My thoughts exactly! I have a 1999 E150, started out just like this but without the cot, although I have a cot for my tent when I actually use one. This life style is freeing and fun once you get the hang of it!
Agree 100%. Lots of great info. I have a 1991 Ford Class B motor home. Only 90K miles on it, but it's 33 years old and if I break down on the road and the MH is in the shop for a while, then U-HAUL van will be the answer for me. Just transfer what I need from the RV into the U-HAUL plus a few things I'll need to buy. Great idea.....THANKS.
I miss it so much 😢 ive gained 60 lbs and life has just lost its quality since i had to move into a house. My van finally hit around 380,000 miles when it broke down it just wasn't worth fixing. So I rented a room and somehow or another it's been 3 years and I'm still living in these people's house 🤷. I miss van dwelling. Life is a shadow of its former self.
@@queensizedfun1
Start power walking for an hour each morning before breakfast.
Just curious why was it better living in a van than a house. I plan on doing it myself soon.
I live in a van down by the river 🎉😂
I was homeless for a few years and lived in a truck, I did like it better too.
@davidradovsky5354 For me, it gives me freedom to actually have a life. In an apartment, I'm more homebound. Everything I need is with me and I can explore the world and find all kinds of things to do and enjoy beautiful scenery. Beats being stuck in an apartment all day everyday.
You did NOT mention laundry - easy - get a large water tight container - fill it with water add washing and washing powder - close it - and as you drive the washing gets done - next day rinse with water - and hang out to dry - I have done that a lot = works fine
I had a friend once that did his regular laundry this way while simply driving to and from work, a 40 minute round trip daily drive.
That is SO smart thank you for saying this
Or a bucket w. Lid and laundry plunger .
I'd go to a laundry mat!! After awhile, your bedding will need washed anyways!!
The toilet bucket - remove waste bag - thats your ' double duty ' laundry bucket - need to wash it out ( even tho lined with bags ) periodically anyway.
Van life doesn't have to be complex with solar and LEDs. It just needs to be a place you find comfortable and provide shelter from the elements
@@nonya.biznessflashlight would work too
He said solar and led lights, also solar can charge cell phones and those little battery power dvd players so there is entertainment and commucations for whatever friends or 911.
Exactly, LED is bad for your health
I picked up a latern at Walmart for $20 . And it takes 3 double A batteries. And it gives off a nice light for a small Area.
I lived in a shed in Rocky Point ,MX for 3 months after I moved there for a job that fell through the 2nd day. I had almost nothing but I went to the Bodega/Walmart/Sams club (both next door to each other) and bought a super cheap charger with a little solar panel and it played my 7" DVD/screen (bought at a pawn hop for $9 US) and charged my phone for the entire time : )@@lonknight3197
A few years back we lost our place and had to live in our car. Thank God we had a generator. Our back seat was our bedroom and the front seats were our living room. We kept most of our furniture in a storage unit. We kept our clothes in gym bags. We used our generator as our kitchen countertop and used a hot plate and buddy burner to cook with.
Home is what you make it and it is definitely where the heart is.
Not even sure why I clicked on this video. Don't care about any of this stuff and don't plan on living out of a vehicle. But, I'm glad I watched it. I was briefly homeless several years ago and did live out of a van. If I had known these basics I could have been comfortable during that time. I also can't know that that situation will never happen again. Most people should probably watch this video at some point.
I clicked on this video for that magnificent beard 🎅🏻
So true
Most of us probably didn't plan on "living out of a vehicle," either. Life can be cruel like that, eh?
@@TheAmazingHuman-Man this is an underated comment XD
Me too! Fascinating interesting- great vid
One benefit of the tubs under the bed is blocking the cold air. If you have any bubble wrap left over, I'd put a layer under the blanket too.
You forgot a light!
Yes by all means , and a throw rug under your bed would help insulate aswell
If not, a layer of corrugated cardboard is also good. I remember using old newspaper as well. They would go under the foam pad.
I would never sleep with all that bubble wrap popping when I rolled over.
@grlnexdoorable lol, the reflectix is bubble wrap sandwiched between flexible foil, so it doesn't pop like the packing material. Yes, regular bubble wrap sure would be noisy on a bed.
Hey Bob! I love that you are still out there helping folks like me, out! A million thank you's! You're the BEST!
I have ran into some people lately who become homeless and are homeless, I gear them your way to learn how to live comfortably in a vehicle. I am grateful that you have the best platform to do teach this. I myself live in a 22' trailer off the grid and I've learned a lot from you.
Thank you!
You can also volunteer with feds for maintaining parks. For camping and essentials in exchange for your work. Seniors and disabled "Reach out America" plan is less money out of the bank. Disabled plan is free see your local Park Rangers they are friends to those who help!
I grew up a carny kid and living in a travel trailer was all I knew. The last one I lived in was 1974 Impala 27 footer. It had everything md Father and I needed.
@jbman413 the "disabled" national park pass gives half-off nightly camping rates. The pass itself is free but proof of disability from social security is required.
Living in a van by the river ~ LOL
This PROGRESSIVE gov does not care about you the individual. It wants money and power,power, and more power. Must be careful what you say to whom you say it. Where you are when saying anything considered a criticism of this government.
A while back I flew out to Vegas and rented a mini-van for a week and drove over a 1000 miles hitting several national and state parks. PreVid this was about $170 for the week rental with unlimited miles. I had a max size duffle stuffed with a tent, sleeping bag, pocket stove, air mattress, bug screen, and toiletries. I picked up a 5 gal bucket, gas for the pocket stove, some food stuffs, and a couple 40 packs of costco water. It was an amazing time. How I miss cheap rentals.
Super expensive now.
Nice. I just looked up one of these vans local for a week it’s $22/day, plus $1 a mile, plus fuel.
@@amgeezy_2709 Thank you !
I did this exact thing this past summer with my girlfriend and we slept in a grand caravan all throughout the eastern side of the sierra Nevada's. It was 117⁰ in death valley. We idled the car for ac more than I'd like to admit.
We got our van on Turo. Was cheaper than regular corporate rentals.
Sir, I hope you understand how much this video means to me. I am a homeless nurse who has no family or friends. I live in my Mazda. My son lives part time with his dad thankfully as he got a spot through his job. On the weekends I had been in/out of hotels and airbnbs. To keep my son housed during my time with him. Unfortunately I fell behind on car payments even working FT. And the repo man found me yesterday. He dropped my car out of pity. God bless that man. He felt so bad. And told me my time was limited. I was wracked all night. Crying. I gathered myself and am collected. Finding solutions. Your video came up in my search. You have saved me from sleeping outside. This is the perfect idea for what I need. I even have a mattress in my storage unit I can throw in and sleep around the corner from my job so as to not lose it. God bless you. I pray you are well 🙏
My prayers are with you. I know that God will lead you through this trial. ❤
Its one thing to move into a van for the adventure, its another when you do for survival. Respects to you ❤🙏❤️
No cooking. Go to the grocery store to eat. Shower at a gym. Use public bathrooms. Need bucket for nights.
Or just use the campground johns and showers
What if you have a dog?
Yeah, simple life
I eat canned chicken and tuna it’s cheap. Heat up premade packets of rice, along with cold
Veggies. Chicken rice veggies cheap and easy. 24 hr gym. This allowed me to save money. I was used to the lifestyle I was a long haul trucker.
Yeah, you can sustain life without cooking, but it sure would be nice to be able to heat coffee or some soup or cook an egg now and then.
A real big issue with these kinda vans is the ventilation and the lack thereof in the cargo. Cargo vans are not built for humans to sleep in, so this is a huge problem. IF you can't air it out daily, condensation water will collect everywhere on every metal surface and window, and soon mold and even fungus might grow all over your things and food. Not to mention the smells, esp from the bucket if you don't empty and clean it after every use. You might want to use a proper old fashioned nightpotty or a medical bedpan for comfort and line it with a trash bag or 2 for every use, then clean the potty, dry it and store it inside a dry bucket with a tight lid. And use it outside the van as much as possible, you literally shouldnt shyte where you eat and sleep, even one splash of ur waste spilled inside will rot and stink up the whole van... (there's a reason our ancestors had an outhouse outside the house before flushing was invented).
The ventilation will really affect your breathing and health, smell and discomfort, and heating/cooling of the van depending on the weather outside. This is why most vanlifers either buy a pricey RV built for humans, camping trailers or need to build at least ventilation and insulation in the DIY vans... aint easy. Best of luck and keep on trucking!
This is very good advice for someone who doesn't have the money, tools, or resources to actually do a van "build." I've actually did my own build-out, but I was staying at a friend's 40 acres farm who had an actual mechanic's "dream" garage with any tool for my use. He even helped me with welding a solar rooftop rack as well as mechanical work such as all new brake components of my older model van. Once I had a bed of some sort in the van, I actually began sleeping in the van while still building it out to get used to sleeping in it before hitting the road full-time in this van. It allowed me to see what I actually needed in the van and what I could do without since I had to downsize... again. I think it's a great idea to "live" in your van at a friend's or relative's home or property BEFORE going full-time time on the road... it helped prepare me for my adventures yet ahead of me.
You can get a multi pack of magnets and a few $5 moving blankets and put them on the walls and ceiling and even floor to stay much warmer in the winter.
A roll of painters masking tape is useful for so many things, and cheap. I highly recommend it.
I thought about moving blankets from harbor freight for extra padding on the cot. Never thought about using them for insulation.
Harbor freight has all kinds of things that might be handy for this.
That's a great idea!
It's getting hot where I live and I'm trying to figure out how to deal with the heat so it's not an oven.
@@Freakazoid12345 just gonna have to learn how to live in the oven unless you wanna install an expensive and noisy AC setup.
@@Freakazoid12345a couple of ideas…an aluminet tarp over the vehicle will help reduce solar gain when you are parked. I see one on Amazon for $30. Inside, try and get some sort of insulation at least on the roof, whether aluminum faced foam board or even layers of cardboard. Gorilla makes a double sided tape that may work to hold it up. For the windows, screen material and magnets are the cheap and dirty way. And if you can spring for it, an 8” rechargeable camping fan to help move the air. Ours cost $40.
A couple of non-van tips…stay hydrated, and put your feet in cool water. Honest. It’ll cool the whole body down.
Renting a uhaul as an RV never would have occured to me. It's brilliant and this is one of very few videos I put in that category. Well played, sir.
No so much, uhaul charges by the mile, like .59
Now I want to know where I can find a similar van. Any suggestions?
the van jas a daily fee plus mileage. .89 cents a mile. not cheap at all.
@@freedomisfromtruththe Milage charge was the first thing that popped into my head too.
Lol yeah no rental is by mile and 24hr period, if not returned in that time police are called and reported stolen
I did this for 2 weeks before jumping into van life. It is a great test and I am glad you made this video and the last one. It is a great option
I liked your video, bob, about using pvc pipe to raise up cot. In another video.
so in your 2 week experment how did it go? is it doable or miserable ?
Just wondering-what did you do with all the “stuff” you bought for Alaska trip?😮
I was thinking the same thing .... try this before buying a van, so I can find out what it would be like to live or camp in my future van.
Maybe a silly idea but - for someone in Anchorage (considering the distance from the lower 48 and such), maybe pick up a lot of this gear and offer to rent it out as a temporary vandweller kit to folks flying up and renting an empty van. Visitors wouldn't then be trying to figure out what to do with all the gear they got when it's time to go home.
Good idea, that would definitely be a timesaver for them.
What a brilliant idea! I was just wondering what a person would need to do with all that gear when it was time to leave on an airplane.
@@marcushennings9513a package deal😊
back to the thrift store
Take it all back to the thrift store and donate it. Consider the money you saved on motel bills. You should still be way ahead.
I spent a year in a 1967 Schevy Van back in 1983. My setup was an air mattress and an old 5-drawer dresser strapped to the wall. I cooked over an open fire and shit in the woods. That was the best time of my entire life.
You made that sound so lovely...😂😅
I've been watching your videos for years, Bob. This is one of my favorites. It was clear and concise. The way you broke it down by function/room really clicked for me. Thank you!
I agree totally that this is one of my favorite videos. For myself my only other additions would be a fan, lighting, and to have heat. That of course can come from our one burner propane stove, as we know in the past you showed us how to make that work. 👍 Also, a way of charging things. That is my problem with my van as I have a Jackery but no real way of charging it except by running my van. 😢😢😢
Also needs to show how he does water storage for both drinking and cleaning?
Agree great video well produced. Very succinct. Now he just needs a portable suitcase solar set up and we can keep things charged.
Wow straight to the point. Thanks bob
@@lonknight3197What about gallon jugs of water? Easy to carry and not expensive until a better idea comes along!
We Might ALL end up Living like this soon enough!? 😮
Until I started living in my car I had no idea how many people lived in their vehicle. Droves of people!. People that work
If I can afford a van
Lol, when that time comes I'm going to rich neighborhood!
Added note. You can setup a hammock diagonally in a U-Haul van. I hooked it from the front drivers side on the security gate to the back passengers side top corner. I'm 6' 3" and it worked great.
You can also purchase a power station (yes, expensive, but life changing) to power all you stuff: television, phone charger, refrigerator, cooking burners, heater, etcetera.
But power stations don't power. They are simply batteries. I would rather spend the money on solar panels to charge my phone (which is our everything there days) without wasting gas idling the engine which these days is important. You don't want to have to burn gas while parked.
I'm living in a prius camper, upgrading to a 12v Setpower refrigerator/freezer & a
Power Station connected to 2 flat solar panels in addition to the Prius hybrid battery.
One thing I never see people do is something I figured out a while back. Get a pump sprayer like the ones in gardening sections of Walmart and use that for having running water. You can even put hot water in it. Also, for cold nights get a hot water bladder. Fill it up with warmed water and you have a nice extra long lasting heat to get your sleeping bag warmed.
also makes a great shower,i used one in my truck for years,outside of course
If you get a stainless steel sprayer you can heat your water on a camping stove or small fire. After three years in an off fridge yurt I finally figured that out for a warm shower!
Also you can get a winter thermal heavy duty tube sock set and fill it with dry beans, they're basically rocks stones and small rocks work too if they're roughly the size of a pea. I like beans better because they have an aroma that I enjoyed, it reminded me of earth and soil. Anyway fill the sock mostly full with the beans and tie a knot at the end. Then when you're in a cold climate or have a sore back and are traveling pop that sucker in the microwave at the next food stop. Most gas stations that sell refrigerated food like burritos that need warmed have microwaves. I found 4 to 5 minutes for about 3lbs a beans to be perfect. I initially made it for my sore back but found that when traveling in cold climates doing this and then snuggling up with it kept my blood and core temp in an optimal range for great sleep.
You can use plastic water bottles and fill with hot water, it's cheaper and likely more durable then a water bag. Plus you can always get a new one very easily.
Nalgenes hold hot water very safely without leaking. A traditional old school British Standard hot water bottle (thick rubber with radiant fins) is the best in bed water bottle.
This is the most simpliest, straight forward explanation that i need. Ive been searching in youtube about this but i all i get is conversion, convert this, build ur van to that, etc. I dont have the proper tools to make my van fancy. I just want this. Thank u so much👍👍👍
I did it, and now live comfortably, rent free with a lot of incredible views. I also told my girlfriend there were two people I wanted to meet and ran into both of them on my journeys. It can get lonely but overall I would recommend it.
I am transitioning in the next 5 years from institutionalized living to living freely, and I am happy to find this channel to help me. I now know what van I would like (gmc econoline) and that I don't need a ton of money to covert it to my needs.
Good for you! Best of Luck, Stay Safe.
I wonder how many lives this man has saved or greatly improved..... I know he has greatly improved my life.
A great suggestion for short term budget living, well done!! An awkward suggestion here to improve on your men's pee catch / holder. Every laundry mat has a trashcan full of empty downy type fabric softener containers. Find a large container and hold the open empty container under HOT water for a few seconds and the inside funnel thingy will pop right out! The screw on top will seal perfectly should the container fall or dump over and is very easy to rinse or clean with soap or disinfectant and looks innocently like a fabric container and there is no lingering odor! I have used these for years in tent camping and when a restroom is far removed, when in a public place. S. Carolina
This is a GREAT idea, thank you for sharing!
Great idea, would it work for women too?
im sure with an additional funnel of adequate size, would work wonders
Don't know why I never thought of this. I've used Arizona tea bottles, which were about 1/2 gallon and dark brown color, so at a glance you can't tell what is in it, but they've since discontinued that size and switched to clear plastic, which makes it too obvious what it's full of. I would think that liquid detergent bottles would also work, and they're even more common.
I use water bottle for Bicycles as pee bottle, lg mouth easy in bed at night and then pour into 1 gallon jug like windshield washer fluid. Dump when I find a bathroom. Ect. Keep it simple! I use jackery 1000 to power entire van. Rechargeable lights, No wiring needed! Jackery has 3 AC, 4 USB and 1 12v outlet. Can be quickly be charged a AC, Or DC and is Solar Ready.
I LOVE this video. Less $ than 4 days in a motel! So practical and simple. Bob Wells is a treasure!
Motel plus rental car....definitely more expensive!
@@bettymiller1308 i just ran the numbers and for 2 weeks and 100 miles of driving its like $600 for the rental. two weeks. $43 a day and you can drive it (but its 89 cents a mile to drive it)
When I was younger, went on honeymoon/vacation in a Chevy Nova wagon. Slept in the back, cooked on a hibachi on the tailgate, for 2 or 3 nights, then got a hotel for one night to get cleaned up and catch up with the world. No laptops or cellphones back then. Worked out pretty good! Were able to travel farther and longer than we could have possibly afforded if we had to stay in hotels all the time.
I know it’s probably a girlie thing, but I would add a rug. You can buy an outside one that is waterproof/washable for a fraction of an indoor one, and it just adds a real homely feeling to the space. You can take it outside when it’s warm to put your chair/cooking items on, and then take it inside to not only look nice, but it adds a layer of insulation from the floor. 😀
As a girl, I use a nice rug in the back of my SUV for camping.
totally agree, I did it... Keep warmth inside in winter also... I got a small hand held vacuum also and a small vehicle broom and hand dustpan.
Yes. And I've found some kind of door mat to put outside your door helps a lot in keeping from tracking in outside dirt.
Very inspiring. A person in a bad situation can live reasonably comfortable and with dignity on a tight budget once they get a van or a pickup with a canopy. Very doable.
Thank you, good sir.
As he has shown they could rent a van if need be. When compared to renting an apartment this van is pretty cost effective so long as you don't rack up a bunch of miles.
@@MA-mh1vs Yes, however, there is a sign in many rental vans that specifically states no sleeping in the van, so be careful.
On the other hand, van rental companies do sell their vans...and the more banged up, the cheaper they are.
@@MA-mh1vsit would still be $800-1000 a month & better to buy one.
@@dross24MA Yeah, but then gotta prove it and whatnot. Mostly, they don't want people making permanent modifications, but everything in the video can easily be removed
The problem is finding a place to park it, not easy.
I went to Oahu about 20 years ago and rented a van at 11 o’clock at night. The next day I went to a Kmart and bought a air mattress. Went to a secondhand store and bought a couple blankets I picked up a cooler. A few other things and I stayed for 12 days in a van right by the beaches. It was amazing I’d do it again, but I would go to the big island next time Oahu is a concrete jungle! Didn’t care much for it spots were pretty.
I bought some cheapie, snorkeling gear and snorkeled everywhere I could, until I saw a big ass tiger shark then I was done going in the ocean!!!
Just before I flew out of Hawaii, I pulled into a park and gave everything that I had including the food in the beer and a bottle of whiskey to a bum in a park. Made his day!
Great story!
I agree with you about Oahu. Waikiki Beach is just sand and water with no marine life-boring. My favorite island is the Big Island. Amazing nature there AND all the comforts. It’s my favorite place on earth.
Going to be homeless in a month. Have been watching your videos. Thank you for sharing. In Alaska so your heating videos have given me a good directionto start. Mike
I actually lived in a U-Haul van identical to this one for about a month. Two years ago I was about to make a 1,200 mile move and had to be out of my old place a few weeks beforehand. Because it was so temporary I just lived out of my suitcase and got a twin air mattress and a five gallon potty bucket. I actually used kitty litter in it and scooped as I popped 😂 It worked! I stayed in a few local parking lots where overnights were OK. I was able to shower at a friend's house a few times a week. The $20 a day was a Hell of a lot cheaper than a 4 week hotel stay!
I hope you're doing well. I remembered that some people get a gym membership so they're able to shower and be fit as well 😂😂😂
@@Loyannelima I'm absolutely fine, thanks for asking. I've been a backwoods hiker and camper all of my adult life, so I just thought about it as camping. Frankly an air mattress in a van was a big upgrade from how I normally camp 😆 It was only for a few weeks and the potty bucket was only for emergencies lol! When ya gotta go...well you know...
What’s the price per mile on these vans? There’s no way it’s $20 a day unlimited mileage. I would probably be cool to do this. If I could put an electric bike or a bike on the back where I could use it is my primary beat around chore bike, but I don’t think it’s very feasible to be running the van around all day if you’re paying a ha Mileage rate.
@@thaicraft1219 I was in Northern Arizona then and they charged 50¢ per mile at that time. (November 2021). I was Extremely Fortunate in that I only needed to drive very minimally. My other vehicles were my "ChevroLEGS"! The mileage is where there can really "Getcha" if you're not careful. As I understand it, the "per mile" charge really depends on your location. I was very Lucky in that my situation was only short term and all I really did was sleep in there.
@@thaicraft1219 This was DEFINITELY NOT a long term solution! I only used it for a few weeks in a very small town where basically everything i needed was within a short walking distance. If I "REALLY" had to be somewhere at a certain time, it certainly sufficed as reasonable transportation.
Hi Bob your video helped me get started with little to nothing. As a newbie to the van life I really appreciate knowing a cheaper way to live in a van.
Everything is so expensive, but this is affordable for me. I'm smiling inside and out with relief. Keep safe always ❤
Thank You.
Cheapest way bed on floor, and bucket good "piss" bottle wide mouth. Water bottles and food. Bob's excellent example is step 2.0 :).
Who could sleep on a hard , cold floor???
@@Pjbuck55 Anyone, you just have to be tired enough :) Regardless, he said 'bed on floor' not 'on the floor'. Meaning, save the $120 on the cot, and throw a cheap air mattress or pad on the floor to start with if you need to.
I can't get up off the cold floor. Mice have trouble getting into most file cabinets. Duffle bags for pillows.
@@MandrakeDCR How about two large coolers or some plastic storage boxes and a span of plywood ($49 1/2 inch)to make a bed platform? Or for a riser use a free wood pallet you see being tossed.I would think that even 12 empty plastic soda bottles - capped- would keep plywood 3 inches off the floor if you are going for super low cost.
I've been living in my car for years, it gets difficult sometimes like staying warm in winter & comfortable in hot summers, I'd park close by 24hr quick trip or other stores for bathroom, usually didn't have many options for showers but maybe 18 Wheeler overnight truck stops have showers sometimes, I'm 46 but I've never been happy with giving money away to renting when you're hardly even there working a full-time job, I'd like to have an apartment but it's either live week to week broke renting or live less comfortable & have a little better money, it's a shame Americans can't afford to live without becoming broke every week...
God bless America and U brother... Heaven will B fabulous 👌 stay strong 💪
Gym membership at a 24-7 place for showers
every decision you make in life does affect your future, blaming others is the usual scapegoat
All major truck and travel centers such as Pilot/Flying J, Loves, TA, Petro, America's Best have showers.
I get most of my gas at Pilot/Flying J and use their awards card.
The points add up for showers, etc
One trick for organizing totes is to get cheap pillow cases from thrift stores. I started doing this as a way to sort bundles of audio cords for my sound equiment, and it makes it so much easier to get what you need faster. I found a bunch at a Goodwill for a dollor or less.
Bob: Similar to your experience: I once drove about 200 miles south to a family reunion in Central Florida. No motel reservations, was astonished to find nothing available under $100/night. Went to Walmart, purchased tent, sleeping bag, and inflable mattress for about $50. Slept fine (in local graveyard near my uncle’s house).
Still have gear many years later. 😊
Pitch tent at midnight; out before first light.
Wow! Peaceful location to boot!
Why not sleep in your vehicle or uncles house? Also did you buy a blanket or sleeping bag?
No way would I sleep anywhere near a graveyard!
@@donnabaardsen5372at least it’s quiet (hopefully) 😉
One of the best channels on UA-cam! My recommendation is getting a gym membership to a 24/7 gym, means you can shower, go toilet and get fresh cold water! Can go twice a day and no one would bat an eye! Here in New Zealand you can get a membership for $7 nzd a week! Pays for itself and gives you some exercise and movement! Also would say staying warm and a way to make hot food and hot water is a must also :)
The 5-gallon bucket method is GOLD. Terrific when camped out, but hands-down life saver when on the move - so good to have a quick, clean, reliable place to do your thing than try to hunt down a place to stop only to find the facilities in dreadful and unhealthy condition. Like Bob, I "double bag."
Small bag of sawdust to absorb. Put some in bottom of pot (lined with garbage bag) then sprinkle some on top. Sawdust is sold for animal bedding. Its cheap. Also he didnt mention water. Very important
I just pull go behind a bush and do it.
@@marilynnfoley829This is a great idea. Thx.
@@marilynnfoley829 pine pellets work much better than sawdust; amazingly absorbent.
I dunno about that. In my book less-than-ideal indoor plumbing beats taking a dump in a bucket.
For temporary arrangements like this you can put a run of the bubble wrap along the wall beside your bed to keep the cold from the metal radiating against you when you sleep. Also look in regular stores damage clearance sections for goodies, too. I recently picked up a $49 copper type frying pan for $5 because it had a dented rim. It would have worked just fine with the dent but I hit it with a piece of firewood and it came right out.
A drift store rug also does it, and can also give some decor for visual confort.
Foil bubble wrap
I've also seen stuff like the lining that goes under rugs for cheap either at carpeting stores as remnants, or at places like Ollie's (liquidation stores), or at places maybe like the 're-store' out here in PA (they sell a lot of home stuff like doors, windows, home framing stuff, similar things.). Anything like that can be used for some decent insulation in those cold vans in winter.
I got 2 4'×6'thick rubber mats from Ollie that fit perfectly in back or my Promaster van! Good insulation padding on areas that I walk on and keeps things on floor from sliding around while I drive. Many people do So much overkill insulation their van floors. I just have 3/4" OSB and those rubber floor mats. Wear socks +or slippers.
A closed cell sleep pad along wall you sleep next to really helps block cold and Beat as well as padding if u bump into it? I was usb rechargeable lights w magnets. Can put where u want, any metal surface take off and move around, use as flashlights ect and don't have to do any wiring? Led string lights are super easy way to add white +or color lights and an put up, take down if u put on temp light rental van? No permanent wiring needed.
I was a truck driver from the age of 17 ,and now I'm almost 70 ,and I have done all camping. ❤
After at least 25 years of living in vans, the only advice I can really give is that the simpler the better. You just don't need a bunch of extra crap. Just something comfortable to lay on and a way to keep your important things out of your way. Some emergency supplies for day-to-day Unexpected things come in handy too. You can add things like stoves and coolers, mini potties, curtains, all sorts of stuff of course but its not necessary. Part of the beauty of the lifestyle is that it forces you to get out and about. If I'm going to live somewhere and spend a lot of time inside, why would I want to be in an 8x5x5 space? An unbreakable water jug and a wide mouth chamber pot jug are the first two things I would grab besides a mattress of some sort. Foam being preferable because of its light, weight and flexibility. You'll have enough free time to source whatever else you'll need as needs arise
@@sharonmorine5407 You can get EBT for food and cases of water.
@@sharonmorine5407
Really, its the same way as if you're sick at home. You can even have food delivered or get instacart😊. The only thing you need to do extra is find a safe place you can stay for a few days without being disturbed. That could be BLM land or whatever. My husband and I live in a 6x10 trailer which we got confined to for 10 days when we both got covid in 2021. We decided to actually pay 30.00/day to stay in a campground so we would have the luxury of hook ups, and a small store which the owners were kind enough to deliver us food and ice from and check on us. Like you said, when you're sick you just want to hibernate and you can do that in a bedroom or a trailer 😊
I may be losing my home due to the land I live on being auctioned off very soon.
no words can describe the pain I feel over this, but buying a van will solve some problems.
So thank you for the advice!
I'm so sorrry Hon. My prayers are with you. I hope you find van like to be of some comfort for now.
I lost mt husband in April and my home at the end of Feb, so I can relate.
I am wanting to live in a van, but 1st have to deal with cleaning my home out.
Hang in there. Hugs
I'm recently homeless. This will be my option as well.
Lo siento mucho de verdad jehova te ayude y tu situcion mejore@@jamietingey7498
Thank you everybody!
Didn't realize there was kind people out there.
I did find a van! And 08 Honda Odyssey with many options and a ton of room!
I still don't know what's going on with my home believe it or not.
It's been weird here, but at least I have my van.
Thank you everyone. I will keep you updated.
And good luck to those looking for a van. Everything is so damn expensive these days!!!
Wtf! 🤷😔
They sat all it takes is money to get started. I have the ambition and desire to become a nomad. In fact, it was always my retirement dream but I was forced into an early retirement and havent been able to save more than a few thousand dollars. Every time I watch these videos, I get more and more discouraged. I like to wish all the nomads out there the very best of luck and please stay safe. Id also like to thank Bob for all the wonderful videos and would appreciate any advice Bob or anyone else can offer. God Bless, Mike
While I don't plan to live in a van, it's great knowledge to know I COULD do it, if I had to! You just never know what life will throw at you. Many thanks to you Bob, for all the information you share in your videos.
When it comes to Thrift Stores I've learned it's best to go to the ones that are in the Richest communities you have access to. People of a higher income then me tend to donate better quality, lightly used items. Their Thrift Stores don't really price things higher then other Thrift Stores so well worth checking out.
I like the simplicity of this temporary build. Made my Limo/Shuttle Bus conversion interior to be modular free standing items that can be locked into place using the floor and wall strut channels that once held the bus seats in place. This allows me to move items, redesign the interior, quickly and easily as my wants and needs change. Can also quickly pull the modular items out to use the bus as a big empty truck, for hauling whatever can fit through it's doors. And if, heaven forbid, I ever need to replace the bus. All my interior components can easily be moved to a new rig, getting me back on the road with minimal time and cash required.
Dude yes, this is my philosophy with finding clothes on the road. My finds got so much better when I stopped going to the hobo end of town and instead went to the rich people area where none of the kids care about the $100 hoodies their parents bought for them. Now I have infinite clothes that are nicer than anything before. All i buy is laundry detergent now lmao.
Badwill - they are profit driven will sometimes ship things from a higher end local store to others to mark up prices or they sell online. And no they do not do anything charitable if you dont know.
@@freedomisfromtruthI stopped donating to Goodwill quite a while ago when I found out that their CEO is making an insanely high salary. Instead I give my stuff either to a homeless shelter or thrift stores that help the poor.
@@freedomisfromtruth Goodwill used to be the jam. Not so much anymore. I've found that when you're really desperate, Walmart will have cheaper clothes. Yes, I know about "fast fashion" and the exploitation of workers, BUT, when you're desperate, you'll get what you can. Obviously, donated things are preferable, but it may not always be available.
Also, Goodwill charges more for Walmart clothes than Walmart charges. 🙄
@@richardharmon647 I donate and buy at ARC.
EVERY Big Truckstop or TA has showers you can rent for a reasonable price.
For a year I’ve been trying to figure out how to visit Alaskan National Parks, and I couldn’t figure it out the logistics until this video! Wow. Thank you Bob. 😊
I live on a 22 foot sailboat. Van life guys and peppers have the most creative ideas
Prepper*
Induction hot plate works nicely when electricity is available. Dorm fridge has held up well for us- run it off a Bluetti (bolt it down!).
We like the cartridge toilet, it flushes, doesn't spill, doesn't stink.
I am a tent camper and this is one of the best camping videos I've seen all year
Home Depot and Amazon have a 3" memory foam 24" x 72" for $35 thats worth it IMO. A person couldnt keep their phone or laptop charged without a battery pack and solar. That's another $400. That's essential for finding boondocking or thrift stores. An issue with 2nd hand bedding is BED BUGS. I found out the hard way.
DC to AC inverters can cost $20-$50 and will charge your chargeable batteries while the engine is running. You'll need more power storage if you're also bringing a fridge or need to run a C-pap or something all day and/or night. But if not, those inverters work well enough and is a much cheaper option than solar and a decent sized power station.
another tip for anyone who is squeamish about going potty in a bucket- buy yourself some extra heavy duty garbage bags to line the bucket and every time you 'go' just add a scoop of scented kitty litter. it keeps anything from getting to messy and stinky before you can dispose of it.
Peatmoss is effective
Thank you Bob. Another great & informative video. Showing us in this economy how we can survive and be ok. My current rent for a 2 bedroom apt is $1727 m and this is what I'm seriously considering after my lease ends. Doing my research and watching your videos and skills are helping me to prepare. Keep them coming and take care out there.
Wow that’s crazy good luck to you
You can do it. Stop helping greedy landlords get rich.
That is crazy high and I live in Scottsdale AZ! When I was thinking about buying a place and the mobile homes were going to be $1400 to $1600 for rent for a 2 or 3 bedroom with 2 baths.
To purchase a basic 2 bed 1 bath was is $400 to $800 depending on the park for land rent plus a mortgage of $130 a month. it might take some work but its worth it.
@@mikemyers4928thank you for sharing that info, I'm currently looking to move out of my expensive 2 bed 2 bath apartment
Consider investing in a passenger van or SUV over a commercial vehicle like a cargo van. Mainly bc nothing beats well engineered insulation. I did a conversion on a commercial vehicle with home Depot insulation and it didn't really keep warm. Compare this to when I stayed in my SUV. The SUV is always 5 to 10 degrees warmer (this the morning temp the next day). Also it stays cooler under the sun - all by design since these vehicles are designed for temp control unlike commercial vehicles. If I were you I'd look into a really large SUV like the GMC suburban for the extra room. These UA-cam RV conversions can look very cool on video but they're not all that cool in real life unless you're really resourceful. Been there, done that. Comfort, privacy and the incognito factor become very essential in van life and you only really get that in a regular passenger vehicle not with a commercial vehicle... I finally went the route of can life in my Honda pilot and I'm very happy with it.
This video is just awesome! The first thing I thought of was people in vans that need repair work done, or have broken down, and they will have to be in the shop for any length of time. We could just rent a U-Haul and live in it temporarily! Cheaper than a motel! And definitely more peace of mind, because the repair work on our van is stressful enough.
That’s true. I fit in that category with my ‘92 van.
baby whipes are your best friend, it even helps keeps yoru hair clean
I used to do this with an SUV and a Peterbilt mattress so I could work out of town without paying for a hotel. I used to camp out at planet fitness, I would walk on a treadmill and watch TV, use the showers, and it wasn't a bad lifestyle.
you might use college dormitory showers - depending on their security.
@@privateinfo1711 Except of course, that would be illegal and dangerous for the students. 🙄
I could watch you talk about stuff like this all day. You are the Bob Ross of Outdoor Living. Every time you talk you paint a picture. 👍🏽
Bob Ross was one of the coolest people on this flat 🌎!
“ How bout we put a friendly little 🌲 here, and a couple of happy ⛅️ ☁️’s here”
👍😎🏜️
@@Dachshund-Natorand lets give him a little friend over here ? 🦔🌲🌲
when you need to do something , you can do it. I lived in a tent on the beach for years. now I have a room to sleep in. I got my tent out recently and went out to camp on the beach and It was so bad I had to come home. My point is that when you need to you can. God gives you strength in times of trouble . peace
Super helpful for me. Getting ready to buy a van but tackling the conversion seems a bit overwhelming. This way I could start living in it and look for some help with the conversion. I am a 'little, old lady' and NOT very handy lol! Thanks for the inspiration :)
Me too🧑🦳, but we've got stories to tell around the campfire. BTW, I LOVE 💕 BOB!!!❤
I've slept in alot of vehicles, VW bug with a 75lb pup to keep each other warm, and everything else, up to a schoolie. NO REGRETS ❤
Good for you!! You can do it. I lived in my van for 3 years and loved it. Peace and positivity to you..
Well bless your heart robbie , thank you for the vote of confidence. Peace @@robbiewright9573
I’m 51 and just purchased a 2017 Chrysler Pacifica to start the Van life. Well, after 2 days of having the Van, it turned out to be a lemon. ( engine problems) I won’t give up tho. God, will bless me with something better😁🙏🏻.
When I was living in my van for a few months while going to school last fall I grabbed a set of those double door bug screens with the magnets that hold them together and the Velcro strips that you can use to install them. I slapped that up in my rear door frame so I could prop my door open a crack at night or during the days and have air movement without being eaten alive. Worked good.
Thanks. That's important information.
Great idea!
Gotta be careful in the city though. Someone might try and open the door.
I convert my work van(Chevy Astro) to living van because I worked out of town. All I did was purchase a twin mattress and a few other things. Spent close to $300. Slept at the base of the Bay bridge for 4 months before the position was available in my town.
I've literally considered renting a u-haul van and shopping for the bare necessities and you've just shown everything I'll need!
Thanks for sharing your ideas. As a 72 yr young camper I always have the urge to head out on the road and explore this great country. Shopping at a Goodwill, Habitat Store or tag sales saves you a lot of money. Also the blankets that Harbor Freight sells are ideal for using on a bed for warmth. Get the larger one. Also the wool blankets sold at Army Surplus are ideal for bedding. Thanks again
Goodwill is sadly super expensive now :(
they were selling a used cheap/Chinese mallet from the dollar tree for 4x the money, years later, ripped toebox cheap shoes (trash) for a lot of money (think they were $30) and it would never be discounted, I think since the sticker didn't have a color.
go to small mom & pop thrift stores, I bought roller skates (that were work issued, heavy duty) for $3, they happen to be clearing their all of their shoes :)
Hi! I'm a Scottish/English lady in the South with a 22' van camper. I've been camping all my life. Want to meet up somewhere? I love the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico in the Fall.
Love the practicality and inexpensive creativity for this van build.
Yes! Thrift stores! I would make my list with your suggestions and hit the thrift stores first. Then go on to the Walmarts and Home Depots for everything else. Well, the actual first thing is packing what I can bring from home. Such a practical, useful video! I would want to add lights and heat source to your list, but we would all likely add things that would take the list from just the basics.
Dollar stores too.
$1.25 stores. I've found cheaper prices at Wally world than thrift stores too. If you have time look around😮
Great thing about cell phones is you can look things up on the spot. Is this a good deal?
Usually yes, but I’ve seen used things marked more expensive at a thrift store than Walmart. Not often, but it happens.
The fact that you did all this for so cheap on Alaska prices is impressive.
yea but what about the cost of the van
you can buy the handicap toiliet seat - it comes with a bucket and it can double as a chair
Hmm. Weird, but that's an idea! Definitely more comfortable and more stable than a bucket!
Lots of storage if you hang things from those horizontal boards on the side walls. Get one or two mesh nets. Or some of those cheap mesh market bags at a dollar store.
It all depends where you're located. I did my van living in Oregon, and I would not recommend it to anyone. If you don't have at least a couple of safe and dependable longterm locations to park and sleep at night secured in advance, don't even think about it. You will not be welcome in most towns and a large percentage of RV parks/campgrounds do not allow vans. This isn't 1975.
Go to a supply store and get some pellets that they use to bed down horses. Put some in the five gallon bucket lined with a trash bag. That way you can both urinate and defecate in the bucket and don't need a receptacle for each. And with the pellets, the bucket won't stink. Don't use kitty litter. You need to empty the bucket at least every two days, and finding trash cans or dumpsters in town to throw away your bag of pellets and human waste is going to be much harder than you think it is. Especially when people figure out what you're doing--and they quickly will.
Get ready to be treated like a homeless person by almost everyone you meet. The hardships of living in a van will quickly put its stamp on you, and people will definitely notice
You need to set up an alternate power system using a deep cycle marine battery so you don't quickly kill your van's battery. You will kill your van's battery because you will be spending A LOT of time in the van, but with the alternate power system you won't kill it as quickly. Google it
Winter living is quickly going to wreck your van. And it will quickly wreck you too, especially if you don't have dependable sleeping arrangements secured in advance. And van living is almost guaranteed to make you more tired, stressed and incomfortable than you ever suspected that it would, even under the best of circumstances
This would make sense in a Class C RV if avoiding camp grounds. That way there's no Black tank to empty, only a grey tank from sink and shower water. That can be done in any storm drain in the city. I'm in the shopping stage of an RV, but don't want to pay $50 - $75 a day for RV parks. I'm sure people won't like that either.
Need constant AC in Florida..day and night..so moderate climate or north in summer south in winter
Work at a chain business.. McDonald's.or something..pay is 14-15/hr and can transfer anywhere practically..with ease.. snowbirding done easier.
If you find a couple of rugs at the thrift store they could be clamped to the boards on the walls after you cover the floor.
I've watched this video at least 3 times already because the information is so valuable! Hi by and I have been talking about vanlife for YEARS and I'm ready to GO. But he's not. So I told him I know what I want for my birthday this year: I want to rent a cargo van and outfit it similar to this and test it out for a few days. He's watched this video with me, and thought you presented great ideas, Bob. But when I told him I actually want to DO this, he looked at me askance. 🙄 Too bad! One way or another, by the end of this year, I am going to be realizing my dream of Vanlife. Even if I have to do it part-time and on my own!
Why do men complain about money so much, but when you show them alternatives to SAVE money, they immediately put on the breaks! I want to do this so I don't have to pay high hotel prices when I travel from the East to Texas to visit my daughter. Also, spend more time stopping to see things on the way. But my husband is bent on flying and renting an expensive car, or driving interstates and staying in hotels. I just hate it! After seeing this video, I might have to work out a plan on my own. I'm 75 and can't afford to keep waiting on him to catch up to me!
Bob, an important part of choosing a pad is the R-value. This is the rating assigned to how the pad is insulated to keep the body warm and to add warmth along with a sleeping bag. R-value of 4.9 to 7 or 8 will keep one warm in 30 to 15 degrees. Just som added info. Great setup, by the way.
Cool, didnt know they could keep you warm too!
I did a very similar thing in Halifax
Flew in rented a van 6 packs of U-Haul blankets.
$20 a day + mileage
Only got 1 hotel room my last night so I could shower and get free shuttle to the airport YHZ
Absolutely 💯. Bob doesn't just teach how to survive and thrive car living but he gives Peace of mind which is priceless ❤
i am taking a Thanksgiving trip from TX to IL in my F=150. I do not have a camper shell so I will be sleeping in the back seat. I have found that three 72" x 80" shipping blankets from Harbor Freight on the backseat adds insulation and comfort. I also bought a butane stove and heater for limited use inside. I also bought window covers from Weather Tech to insulate and block out light. With blankets and a pillow, I should be okay.
My military know how and Bob’s tips and tricks…I have no idea why I’m not living nomad life. I did briefly live in my Honda Odyssey around town and I loved every second of it. My dog has a seizure disorder and I believe that’s what’s keeping me grounded. 😔❤️🙏🏾
I'm in Texas where heat is an issue for sleeping. A friend of mine started with a full sized van and built two cots out of flat aluminum to cover the wheel wells. To cover the open windows at night he used plastic window screen, cut oversized, with magnets sewn in around the edges. For rain protection (when the windows were open) he used 7' long poles with a short spike on the top along with a tarp. He installed new grommets for the spikes to stick through and held the 4 corners tight with marine grade bungee cord staked to the ground up to the spikes. The tarp covered the top and dropped down the sides forming a personal car port. The places we camped always had facilities, so we didn't really need a kitchen, living room, or bathroom.
this is my issue as well, i live in houston and i’m thinking of doing van life for a while because rent is just too high. but the heat can get insanely crazy idk how i’d be able to be comfortable during the day
I'd be more concerned about the heat than winter. If I were to try living in a vehicle I would be in a cold climate
A european perspective on the channel : the american pioneer like spirit is still well and alive, whatever the reasons and courses of life. My respect for you people...
I just lived in one for 10 days last week while my van was in the shop being repaired (in San Diego) and also in June for 3 days when I had some repairs done on my van. It's a little more expensive depending on what you do, but still a fairly cheap option. It's $19.95 a day, plus .79 a mile , plus about $10 a day (if you buy their insurance), plus tax and gas @ $5 a gallon, but, it's much cheaper than renting a motel as long as you don't drive around much. Just a couple of suggestions. There is no ventilation in the back at all and no insulation in the van. A lawn chair helps if you want to sit somewhere and don't have a cot. The windows aren't tinted much, so bring curtains. Charging ports are up in the cab so you can't reach them from the back if you need to charge your phone you have to be up front. The sliding side door can be heavy if you're parked on a slant and the lights on the ceiling stay on when opened . I disconnected them and then reconnected them before returning it. Good idea for saving money.
Funny, I came across this video because I planned on renting one for camping. I didn't realize you can't get to the cab from the back? I tried renting a cargo from a rental company (they have unlimited miles) and they canceled on me less than 24hrs before I was supposed to pick it up! So I thought, I'm going back to trying a UHaul, but I don't know if I like not being able to get to the cab.
Me too. If anything happened late at night that spooked me, I'd like to be able to not have to go outside to get to the the driver's seat and drive off. @@deanngardner5578
@@deanngardner5578 yes they have a safety partition behind the seats and there's no door in it.
Sleeping on a cot in the cold can be the worst with out some proper insulation. For insulating a cot use a sleeping pad first, then cut some Relectix to size, then fold a wool blanket to fit the cot ( in thirds or a quarter) This is your cot and base. A down comforter for on top of you. In really cold climates cover the comforter with a mylar blanket. The pad, Reflectix, wool set up will give you a warm soft sleeping surface.
They make sleeping bags for sub zero weather used one in my bunk while driving semi o er the road. Slept very comfortably.
Yes sleeping on a cot without a barrier will lead to getting cold. I had to sleep on a cot in the military even though I was in a warm sleeping bag the part of my body against the cot was cold from the air underneath I got up put a sleeping pad underneath the sleeping bag which helped insulate me and was able to sleep comfortably. I would also add use closed cell foam instead of an air mattress
Love it. For the price of a couple of nights in a hotel you're completely outfitted.
Good video! If I may add: trash can with extra bags (could be another 5 gallon bucket with lid), a 5 gallon bucket with lid can also be used to wash clothes, and another 5 gallon bucket with lid for your toilet with a full trash bag of sawdust (or cat litter) to sprinkle on top of your bodily wastes as it keeps the smell down! Removable roof-top solar panels with solar battery for any electronics. Use large totes instead of plastic drawers which are not very mouse proof (voice of experience, unfortunately) and if you don't use anything that needs refrigeration you can store everything in these totes! A cot side organizer is very helpful for use like a bed-side table for glasses, flashlight, nighttime drink, pee bottle (don't mix them up), etc. A over-sized thick rug will make the interior much cozier. IHMO sleeping bags with removable liners are warmer and easily adjustable for temperature and an inflatable sleeping pad is lighter weight for the insulation value. Make sure you have lids for those pots and pans. I would use the bottom drawer of the metal file cabinet for the propane and/or butane stove because it's at the back of the van where a pan fire could just be thrown out, you can cook from the inside or outside, you'll get better ventilation for the fire and just shutting the drawer will have stove (and maybe pots and pans) out of the way. Don't forget a small fire extinguisher (the drawer will help contain a fire) and a good first aide kit! Also, especially if you're planning on being out in the sticks for an extended period I would add more water storage (a water filter)and a tent to allow you more camp site room! The biggest down side IMHO with van camping/living is the lack of security! I pick-up-truck camp in spring/summer/fall and always take along my red heeler dog; 50 pounds of muscle and fury, a great companion and pretty warm as well! If you can't (or won't) carry a firearm then bear spray works well on people too! And a spray can of cooking oil makes a short-lived flame thrower but can be very hazardous!
And if your are traveling- have good security..a dog or a gun and always have a way to drive off in a hurry, @ a ph charged.have a plan.
Instead of sawdust or cat litter how about coffee grounds? I hear cafes throw away bags of this every day. Pretty sure you can use it in composting toilets
I know we all have to face retirement some day. But you will truly be missed Bob. Thanks for everything you have done help the homeless and those in need. Wishing you much enjoyment during your retirement.
I have lived in a cargo van for quite sometime.
Renting a uhaul van is my back up emergency plan. I am most comfortable having a plan b and even plan c. I think my van is special because it is my home, however it is just a machine that can break down no matter how well maintained or how handy a person is.
This excellent video is such a good example of how to set up a van home, quickly with very little investment.
This could work for someone wanting to give van life a trial run.
Go on a vacation on a tight budget.
A person could use many of these ideas set set up living in car temporarily.
The basic essentials are pretty much the same for any home.
Personally, I would add a hot water bottle to my list of essentials. A hot water bottle isso awesome to warm your feet, hands,take the chill out of your bedding before you crawl in. Jetboil is another item I wouldn't like to be without. I have had the same one for more years than I can recall. I use it at least once every day. I have cooked whole meals on it. Using an ordinary kitchen pot.
I uses sheets & blankets, regular bedding in my van home. In a quick temporary set up I would use my mummy bag and a couple of small lightweight blankets. That is assuming I had access to bring these things from my van home to a temporary/rental van.
Thrift store shopping is not budget friendly. It can also be entertaining. I have intended found great quality items that are often a step up from something that I have already but even better. Or something I wanted or needed but could not afford at full retail. They also give me the opportunity to donate things I have that I don't need or use. I.e. I had high quality heavy duty pots from my house that I brought into my van. I had too many, they were way bigger than I needed in the van. So...when I found more suitable cookware I donated the pots that I had that were too heavy and bulky for vanlifmetimes we get the opportunity to give back.
I think Bob Wells is a tremendous example of a humanitarian.
Thank you so much Bob Wells.
Absolutely blown away by this video! 😱💪 Turning a van into a comfortable home for just $365 is not only incredible but also insanely motivating. The creativity and resourcefulness showcased here are off the charts! 🚐💡 Every DIY solution and budget-friendly hack shared in this video is a game-changer for anyone dreaming of van life on a budget. Major kudos to the creator for making this transformation accessible and inspiring. It goes to show that with a bit of ingenuity, dedication, and a tight budget, you can turn a simple van into a cozy home on wheels. 🌟💼 Loving the practical tips and the can-do attitude of this channel. Keep up the fantastic work - you've got a fan for life! 👏👏
That feels who done that van into his home bloody fantastic just sharing that with you ..
Cheers Logan from Newzealand 👍
You can rent a U Hal for a limited amount of time but If you want to keep it for more than a week, buy it to add permanent changes and until you sell what you buy. I think someone mentioned putting in something permanent but Bob was renting a U-Haul and not putting anything permanent in it.
What's great for me about this video is that I could rent a van and try out this idea before actually committing to buying a van. I'd like first to know what it would be like to live in a van and if I would want to. Plus I have most of the stuff I'd need already at home.
One consideration would be overnight parking. A lot of places are hammering down hard on overnight/unattended vehicles. The Walmart by me gives employees parking stickers so if they work early or late than store hours they won't get towed.
Yes Ive heard that. Unfortunately a few I'll behaved people can ruin it for everyone:(
Yeh I see some storage unit places let people park their RVs campers and wat not stay parked for nightly fee
Probably wouldn’t work in a rented U-haul with writing all over it, but years ago I read about a traveler who would park in car repair shop lots. Come late, leave early. No one would notice a “strange” vehicle as all the vehicles are temporary. Even the mechanic driving by seeing a vehicle that wasn’t there at closing time would think someone just needed unexpected work done. Never tried it, but thought it was brilliant.
@@Pinetree282this also works out well when you actually need work on you vehicle. We did this for a few nights visiting the town we were stuck in and sleeping in the van parked at a mechanic.