The Pros and Cons of Living in a Car

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  • Опубліковано 21 вер 2024
  • Here are some pros and cons I’ve experienced with my personal car life journey. I love my car and I have loved living in my car, but I tried to make it apparent in this video that I was trying to give 5 non-biased pros and cons, hence me repeatedly saying I’m not trying to romanticize living in a car. ‘Cause it’s totally not romantic! But it has been a hell of a time!!
    IG: AlyssaVanilla

КОМЕНТАРІ • 164

  • @totallysick88able
    @totallysick88able 2 роки тому +29

    Yeah people’s reactions when they find out I’m living in a car is the most annoying. I’m not suffering and don’t need peoples pity. Life is great and way less stressful. People definitely look at it the wrong way

  • @David53D
    @David53D 2 роки тому +22

    I started car dwelling out in Honolulu back in the 70's and have managed to save up close to a million dollars via mutual fund investing and minimalistic living. I now own a mobile home on a lake in South Texas but still have a 2018 Camry camper because it's so comfortable being able to take a quick nap anywhere you happen to be and to chill out incognito. Peace

  • @nykatewinslowable
    @nykatewinslowable 3 роки тому +45

    By living in my car and eliminating rent and utilities I was able to pay off my car in 1 year instead of 3.

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +4

      :O wow!! Happy for u

    • @SweetUniverse
      @SweetUniverse 2 роки тому +1

      Or, with you, people would be saying, "Omg, illegal immigrant!!! Call the police!!"

  • @faithp9853
    @faithp9853 3 роки тому +30

    Hahaha “living in ur car is a con of living in ur car 🚗 “ hahaha ur humor is great !! “You can’t just shit 💩on the side walk, it’s frowned upon “ 🤣🤣. Thanks for being so real

  • @FederationOfLight
    @FederationOfLight 3 роки тому +22

    You're awesome Alyssa. I love how down to earth and frank you are about everything. This also means you are secure within yourself, which makes you a champion.

  • @CanCandiceCandice
    @CanCandiceCandice 3 роки тому +25

    I’m going to do this in Florida. Just until I find land and build a yurt or glimpsing experience. That way I can always have-a-home.

    • @CanCandiceCandice
      @CanCandiceCandice 3 роки тому +3

      Definitely come to Florida :)

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +4

      Yay! That’s a great plan! I’m with you, after this I want property that is MINE! No more renting!!

    • @altruisticenergy
      @altruisticenergy 2 роки тому

      Hiii Florida fam 🌞💕

    • @sarrahsharpe1905
      @sarrahsharpe1905 2 роки тому +1

      I have lived in Flordia 4 months living in my car most of the time it’s hard but not bad

  • @CyrusOfNaias
    @CyrusOfNaias 3 роки тому +21

    I totally get the unfair judgment side of things.
    People are too wrapped up in appearances, persons, and statuses.
    There are many reasons people might have for living in a vehicle. As for myself, I desire to do it by choice, mainly in order to pay off debt and be more mobile for an indefinite time

  • @JK20239
    @JK20239 3 роки тому +13

    if you can live in a car and it doesnt wear you out. youve beat the system. no mortgage debt. paid off car. no debt.

  • @seapotentialdifference
    @seapotentialdifference 7 місяців тому +1

    Not aspiring to live in my vehicle, but circumstances the past few years tend to be shoving me in that direction. There are aspects that scare me a little! but I've always loved camping and being in the outdoors, and I'm looking forward to more of that in my life!

  • @deea1754
    @deea1754 3 роки тому +7

    I always keep my car prepped to live in it. It is the greatest peace of mind ever. Neat, clean, efficient. Everywhere I go, I'm home.

  • @carmenlo2391
    @carmenlo2391 3 роки тому +15

    Hey Alyssa, i think just to have this experience in life is the biggest PRO for me. I have been interested in this way of living for a long time. I been wanting to live in a tiny house but I might start with a van first then find land to put my tiny home lol.

  • @FRANKYLUSH
    @FRANKYLUSH Рік тому +1

    "Ay pobresito" lol ..... awesome sauce . I'm. So exited for when I get to join this life car thing. Thank you Alyssa

  • @deea1754
    @deea1754 3 роки тому +8

    I know a ton of homeowners and the stories of their problems make car dwelling an ideal lifestyle.

  • @anthony36593
    @anthony36593 3 роки тому +13

    The biggest pro and flex is after a couple years you'll eventually be able to buy and own your own house or apartment and maybe even have it paid off. Car dwelling is not a luxury but if your willing to give up some comfort for a couple years, the reward on the upside is ludicrous!

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +7

      Exactly! Car welling is allowing me to afford luxuries later down the line. For now I'm just enjoying the adventure and challenge of living tiny :)

    • @dudewhathappenedtomycountr9099
      @dudewhathappenedtomycountr9099 2 роки тому +2

      @@AlyssaVanilla Yes, and good that you're doing it while you're still young. A lot of us older folks wish we had had the balls to do it back in the day, but we were too concerned about appearances.

  • @ninichen8770
    @ninichen8770 Місяць тому

    "It's frowned upon. And maybe even illegal." this is so good lmao

  • @missgarciatube
    @missgarciatube 2 роки тому +4

    Love your videos... I too live out of my car... I've never been happier... My Journey began September 17 2021.... Has been a choice and not a necessity

    • @Stellarainn
      @Stellarainn 2 роки тому

      For me its both and i havent started yet. Im kinda scared

    • @Ashley-og9ti
      @Ashley-og9ti Рік тому +1

      ​@@Stellarainnhow are you? I'll be on the road next month super nervous but excited at the same time.

    • @Stellarainn
      @Stellarainn Рік тому +1

      @@Ashley-og9ti hi! It's pretty exciting to be honest. Everyday is like an adventure, like a mission (in a good way). The worst part is the heat when the car is off (im in Florida) but yeah it's so freeing

  • @Allcampsfitness
    @Allcampsfitness 8 місяців тому

    I have a 30 foot travel trailer, and a 40 foot motorhome, and a class b camper van. And still have not built up the courage to hit the road. I did 1 month and loved it. One day!!!

  • @esmeraldagarcia2408
    @esmeraldagarcia2408 2 роки тому +4

    Sending you positive vibes, don't worry soon you will have a nice van to continue your journey 😊

  • @wiggleworm100
    @wiggleworm100 3 роки тому +5

    I’m lucky my vehicle has tint. And when I decided to do this I got new tires and keep up with maintenance. Even with tint I do have things to cover almost all windows and a steering wheel lock for safety towards my home.

  • @TheINFP_Diary
    @TheINFP_Diary 7 місяців тому

    love your channel, last night was the 4th night sleeping in my car, your videos are helping me lots :)

  • @justchillen6976
    @justchillen6976 Рік тому +1

    Love ur videos. Me and my girl use to live in a car under tough circumstances and we found out the hard way that sleeping in ur car is illegal in California when we were parked rite in front of the beach blending in with other cars and waking up to a knock on our window and it was the police asking for our information and reason why we are ther as if we were doing a criminal act 🤦‍♂️ this happened twice in another location parked out side of apartments again blending in with other cars, Luckily both times we were left off with warnings not to come back to the area or Else we would be fined. I think cops had pity on us because we were young other wise i feel like it would have bin a ticket both times. Ther were so many other sketchy times were ppl saw us and stared at us trying to sleep in the car and felt like they were gunna call the cops 100% we left so quick. Living in ur car or van in the city or suburbs is a nightmare, I remember driving for hours to find a spot to sleep just so I could park and see someone staring and have to move again so we wont deal with cops although we did have are good times i still suggest to do it as far away from civilization as possible. Safe travels to all you van lifers out ther💙🚐

  • @maxjames8764
    @maxjames8764 2 роки тому +1

    Sunset ha! I’ve crashed many nights by the Denny’s on Sunset and Gower! Saved tons of hotel dough. $$$
    Love these vids.

  • @maxjames8764
    @maxjames8764 2 роки тому +1

    When I am going from state to state, I love the 24hr TA truck centers. Lots of RV’s and 24hr security. Shower for $15 if you need one😛

  • @motherofgaia6983
    @motherofgaia6983 3 роки тому +7

    "You can't just shit on the sidewalk." 🤣🤣🤣🤣

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +3

      it’s true!!

    • @16-bitpower38
      @16-bitpower38 3 роки тому +2

      i advise anyone to go into an area that is foresty/wooded and use baby wipes to clean up after. works very well.

    • @motherofgaia6983
      @motherofgaia6983 3 роки тому

      @@16-bitpower38 😂😂 will big mama does provide mullein leaf for us! So maybe you have a point 😂😂

  • @michellecollins6379
    @michellecollins6379 3 роки тому +3

    The best pros and cons video yet kiddo.😁

  • @billyclark1730
    @billyclark1730 2 роки тому +2

    You're so funny 😂 an inspiration. A true free spirit.

  • @tibby5592
    @tibby5592 3 роки тому +2

    yeh number one pro is saving money for me. like i wanna get everything that ive really needed saved up for before I get an apartment again. number one con for me is a bit of anxiety with being a woman by myself sometime i freak myself out if i'm in a sketchy place i gotta drive somewhere else if the vibes are weird lol. Stay safe girl🙏

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +4

      i totally feel you! in the future i am going to make an entire video dedicated to the anxiety of solo female travel. but it is so worth it to save money once you know your safe spots!!

    • @tibby5592
      @tibby5592 3 роки тому

      @@AlyssaVanilla yeh im still getting into the groove of things i know it will all be good once i get used to it more. money wise tho u cant beat it lmao.

  • @Cube_Ernator1077
    @Cube_Ernator1077 3 роки тому +3

    "Bucket" toilet would be a necessity in car living but showering with just baby wipes would be a challenge!

  • @shotsandtacos604
    @shotsandtacos604 3 роки тому +2

    I absolutely love the way you talk, it’s informative and fun like talking to a good friend. One question, can you cook in your car? Or have you ever tried cooking in your car?

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому

      Thank you :) and I have not, but I’ve cooked right outside it many times!

  • @wiggleworm100
    @wiggleworm100 3 роки тому +1

    I never have people in my car much ever so I got a steering wheel plate for the front and have my back of my car set up for sleeping. My passenger seat is storage. I have containers set for shoes and my clothing. I don’t like leaving my shoes thrown on each other cause sometimes they will get muddy.
    I own a BUNCH of blankets for the back of my car. My car is black interior so I do my best to make everything blend in.

  • @wiggleworm100
    @wiggleworm100 3 роки тому +1

    I am a new nomad. You could shower at gyms, truck stops (they do cost), or friends and family (luckily I’ve got family around the states), also you can get a shower head for a sink on amazon. It works great for your hair. And also you could use more wipes.

    • @heyychi
      @heyychi 2 роки тому

      Good tips! A lot of bathrooms have been closed but they’re opening

  • @roxannegalvan462
    @roxannegalvan462 2 роки тому +3

    I just don't tell anyone my situation, that would be kind of dangerous.

  • @SashaEskildsen
    @SashaEskildsen 3 роки тому +9

    toilet paper Armageddon lmao I love you sis

  • @energi_inc.3022
    @energi_inc.3022 2 роки тому +1

    I'm tethered to a really good job. Have the gym membership for showers. Storage unit for my life items. And a po box for mail.

  • @markkelly3760
    @markkelly3760 3 роки тому +2

    Totally different yall....I like it. Bless u...

  • @sassygrrl32
    @sassygrrl32 3 роки тому +2

    There's alot of stigma with living in any kind of vehicle. People that have never done it don't understand it. I posted a video to FB & friends were like OMG, HARD TIMES!!!! You're 1 step from sleeping in the bushes, get your priorities straight, work 3 jobs & get back in a house. Some quit talking 2 me probably because they think I'm a ragged out drunk. I get why alot of people won't say anything.

  • @bcrummie
    @bcrummie Рік тому

    Your a realist and I f*cking love it

  • @sammynhem4218
    @sammynhem4218 3 роки тому +3

    Lol! The world is your oyster. I love it!

  • @destinygarcia2796
    @destinygarcia2796 3 роки тому +2

    I appreciate this realistic video 💯💯

  • @aneiceepoo
    @aneiceepoo 3 роки тому +2

    Great informative video! For a heater I’d opt for a heated or weighted blanket and there are also fan/heater combos you can buy and plug into your converter for hot and cold weather without having your car on😁! How much did you save beforehand if you don’t mind me asking? I love your last pro, FREEDOM!🙌🏼

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +3

      I think I had around $500-$1k saved up before, cant remember. I found work after I got to Oregon so hard to say what was savings and what was work pay. Thank you :)

  • @ferniegutierrez5605
    @ferniegutierrez5605 2 роки тому +3

    Pro: Not having to deal with annoying roommates/fam.
    Con: Might get a bit lonely even though your roommate/fam is annoying at times.

  • @sunguyen985
    @sunguyen985 3 роки тому +2

    I like how you end your video. It was funny. I still laughing even though it was over

    • @sunguyen985
      @sunguyen985 3 роки тому +1

      I’m going to watch one more time

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +2

      Thanks Su! This means a lot :) hope you still enjoyed the second time around haha

  • @Stellarainn
    @Stellarainn 2 роки тому +1

    The thing i work in my car. Im scared that if i start living in it and it breaks down imma be homeless and unemployed

  • @Spadeface66
    @Spadeface66 3 роки тому +5

    What about a fridge or freezer like how do you keep stuff cold or heat stuff up

    • @noturningback2023
      @noturningback2023 3 роки тому +1

      I have a little 12 volt/AC refrigerator I keep in my car. It's very small but it keeps my acidophilus cold for me (I use that to stay healthy).

  • @AmyKristine
    @AmyKristine 3 роки тому

    Katie Carney! She's been doing it for years and loves it. Right now she's in an apartment because of covid. But as soon as she can she'll be traveling her car again she goes all over the country on purpose.

  • @jeanne4771
    @jeanne4771 3 роки тому +2

    Drive to Florida, the state is open.

  • @josephjones836
    @josephjones836 2 роки тому

    If you are a lady, not having your own bathroom and lack of privacy is worst thing imaginable.
    If you are a guy, the lack of dating prospects and endless downtime will be your pain.
    But, Alyssa definitely has a great some tips here.

  • @darrellfort1668
    @darrellfort1668 2 роки тому +1

    good talking points, but van life is for me, awesome video tho

  • @roxannegalvan462
    @roxannegalvan462 2 роки тому

    I think you can get some water in those jugs to wash up or maybe a portable shower but you have to be very careful because you have to be safe. When I do this, I will need a trailer to have my things because I don't want to pay for storage.

  • @ME-en1ke
    @ME-en1ke 2 роки тому +1

    When you first started , did you have a lot of money saved ? How do you make money on th road to pay for everything, gas , food. Car insurance, ect. ?

  • @roxannegalvan462
    @roxannegalvan462 2 роки тому

    Would about one of those very small portable air conditioners you don't put in a window you can plug it into your jacket, it fills up with water. I am not sure how it is but I want one.

  • @hopefranklin9155
    @hopefranklin9155 3 роки тому +1

    You are such a hoot. Love your personality. Thanks for the info. What kind of car do you have? How long have you been living in your car? Do you work and how old are you? Nosey people want to know these things. Me .. Lol. I am thinking about joining the car life. I am ready for a BIG change in my life. I have lived the sticks and bricks and worked 40 years. I want my life now. My turn. Happy trails and be safe. God bless.

  • @WORKSbaby
    @WORKSbaby 2 роки тому +1

    Some ppl called cops on us when we slept at the beach

  • @cookiess5049
    @cookiess5049 3 роки тому +3

    My dumbass thought BLM land had something to do with Black Lives Matter and was so confused

  • @carpenoctem775
    @carpenoctem775 2 місяці тому

    Just gotta find a place to shower and do laundry. That’s my only challenge. I can handle everything else.

  • @kennymega61
    @kennymega61 Рік тому

    She is so cute

  • @merlincontemplation
    @merlincontemplation 3 роки тому +1

    Electric blanket might help

  • @wtr7
    @wtr7 Рік тому

    I like your humor and videos. Was out with some friends recently. We got something to eat and there were drinks (socially). Probably above the limit.
    Pro - If you live in your car, park near where you socialize, avoids potential legal problems.
    FYI: I drink rarely and drive safely.

  • @magalymonarrez1972
    @magalymonarrez1972 3 роки тому

    Gracias por este video!! Aprendí mucho!! :)

  • @detraed8962
    @detraed8962 2 роки тому +1

    LOL I think it would be cool to find cars and vans already built to live in.

  • @lakshaynz
    @lakshaynz 2 роки тому

    Thanks

  • @isaiahreed231
    @isaiahreed231 3 роки тому +1

    I am planning to live in my car for 6 months to save for a house!

  • @foxetalez
    @foxetalez 3 роки тому +1

    How much $ do you think you'll need to start living in your car? Like to start off with?

  • @whitewolf4016
    @whitewolf4016 3 роки тому

    Put a low voltage heater blanket in your jackery

  • @livestrong4ever1986
    @livestrong4ever1986 3 роки тому

    Thanks for sharing!

  • @thullraven1
    @thullraven1 2 роки тому

    I would only do it part time to travel and explore. I have no need to do it full time. I own my home and car. No mortgage and no car payment. I have bills for living, but I am totally debt free.

  • @kevinhughes9801
    @kevinhughes9801 3 роки тому

    Great insight thank you

  • @trellblazzermusic7688
    @trellblazzermusic7688 3 роки тому +1

    Doing great

  • @SwiftDawg
    @SwiftDawg 3 роки тому

    And 6 months after this video West coast is still the hardest place to find a public restroom, also in NY 😒 so I have a "potty" with me for emergencies.

  • @gloriamartinez2904
    @gloriamartinez2904 Рік тому

    I have a question for you , how did you breathe in your car when it was time to sleep ?

    • @gloriamartinez2904
      @gloriamartinez2904 10 місяців тому

      @@PhD72 I meant did she sleep with the doors all closed and windows up , that would be hard and very uncomfortable to sleep in I’ve done it and i didn’t like it .

  • @garrybeard7718
    @garrybeard7718 3 роки тому

    Awesome video well done A V stay safe girl .👍🇬🇧🤘🍺

  • @wxstednxghts
    @wxstednxghts 2 місяці тому

    My only problem is how do people work and make money? Without doing online jobs that you have to have a degree or crazy qualifications or something?

  • @NirtieDigger
    @NirtieDigger 2 роки тому +1

    Living in BC is too expensive and I'm going to have to live in my car for about 8 months to pay off my debt and get back to $0.00

  • @Allcampsfitness
    @Allcampsfitness 8 місяців тому

    ✌🏼👍

  • @shawnevans26
    @shawnevans26 2 роки тому

    Hey Alyssa, a few people have been living in a Toyota Prius and have climate control because of it.

  • @undercoveradventurist
    @undercoveradventurist 3 роки тому

    Great video... all I heard was financial freedom and freedom lol. I'm very much looking forward to it all. I just organized my place and got 6 more bags for donation. ✔😊❤

  • @ell6323
    @ell6323 14 днів тому

    i want to send a loving thought back to you 4 years ago- take out the passenger seat

  • @izang5800
    @izang5800 3 роки тому +1

    Its called 25 hour fitness

  • @harrypottah8889
    @harrypottah8889 3 роки тому

    Gorgeous!!

  • @JohnDoe-it7dl
    @JohnDoe-it7dl 3 роки тому

    Watched more of your videos and I really enjoyed this one. So honest and genuine. Subd

  • @dgsimpin
    @dgsimpin 3 роки тому

    Hey getting portalable refrigerator under 200 dollar good or bad

  • @Stellarainn
    @Stellarainn 2 роки тому

    Im planning to live in my car to save for an RV

  • @16-bitpower38
    @16-bitpower38 3 роки тому

    i wouldn't live in my car. i would sleep in it. the living i would do outside as much as possible. it is doable. the only con i see of living in a car is climate control but in a prius, you can run an ac at night as it is a hybrid engine. a pro is actually you can change your views (go to a beach front) or leave your nasty neighbors in a second or do work with and out of your car so you can actually write the car off as a tax deduction. i would advise you to not just do road trips but also do short transfers such as deliveries, pickup old ladies and transport to doctor offices. you can establish a client base across the states and then add the roadtrip option. there are lots of ideas i have i could do. i am planning to transition to car living in the next year. i HATE paying rent. live minimalist and light. that's the way to go.

  • @evrydaykris
    @evrydaykris 3 роки тому

    You are pretty!

  • @stevestouchupcompany5994
    @stevestouchupcompany5994 3 роки тому +1

    Please purchase military MREs prepared food.

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +2

      I ate these growing up as a kid, both parents were in the military so there were always a lot left over. Kinda gross haha but actually not a bad idea!

    • @stevestouchupcompany5994
      @stevestouchupcompany5994 3 роки тому +1

      @@AlyssaVanilla
      I love them I am Military too, it was a staple of my diet. I still have some.
      Also toilet paper is in every package too.
      In bad weather or being stranded.
      UA-cam dakota fire pits..
      You can also get a instant shower. Get a strong plastic gallon water bottle puncture several holes on the top, where you fill the container around the opening maybe 10 I have 6 holes turn it up sidedown and shower. I'm a man so I have one you may need two.
      To heat it up boil have or less then fill the gallon and warm or hot shower.
      Lol.

    • @stevestouchupcompany5994
      @stevestouchupcompany5994 3 роки тому

      I follow you on Facebook check out the Band I just posted.

  • @T206-v9q
    @T206-v9q 3 роки тому +2

    Lol. 😂😂. Your funny!!!

  • @juliewynn2093
    @juliewynn2093 3 роки тому +1

    Has anyone homeless overnight and don't even have a car? What then? You have only $11 in your hands. So all option of gym or comfort of a car is not there. With $11 and a backpack of clothes. Has anyone in this circumstance? I really want to convert alot of these abandoned places into livable place.

  • @KLEARSKITHEKREEPER
    @KLEARSKITHEKREEPER 3 роки тому +2

    You are incredibly beautiful 💓

  • @argeliorico239
    @argeliorico239 3 роки тому

    Pobresiiiitooooo. Te quiero mi motivo!

  • @CyrusOfNaias
    @CyrusOfNaias 3 роки тому +2

    Hanging out at places outside your vehicle was certainly easier to do before the beer-flu hysteria began.
    Still quite annoyed they closed the Library

  • @sylviatorres8965
    @sylviatorres8965 3 роки тому

    Get a portable collapsible toilet and also a portable shower.,Problem solve that will work for now... take care and many blessings 😊

  • @lauralopez1796
    @lauralopez1796 2 роки тому

    What's you're ethnicity are you ?

  • @kendalgee5808
    @kendalgee5808 Рік тому

    Planet fitness is $10 a month for a single local gym. I believe planet fitness some of them are 24 hours. But to get multiple memberships to every location it's like $30 i believe, i could be wrong. True as of Nov 2022, i don't believe 24 hour fitness is 24 hours anymore.

  • @kyledees7559
    @kyledees7559 3 роки тому

    How long can a person live in there car for?

  • @Alliaaa
    @Alliaaa 3 роки тому

    once you can afford a house can you buy me one too? In Los Angeles (where people that work literally sleep on the street)

  • @carolynmerritt7100
    @carolynmerritt7100 3 роки тому

    Idk about park and live anywhere. Many ppl say they have issues with park and live space between the police and mean azz ppl...

  • @mzeeali8840
    @mzeeali8840 3 роки тому +1

    Ok, lets purchase a bus.

  • @kaylaw366
    @kaylaw366 3 роки тому

    Toilet Paper Armageddon LOL

  • @savagelyfekoofreactz6356
    @savagelyfekoofreactz6356 3 роки тому

    Can i reach out and message u about this

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +1

      Message me here! Some people may have the same questions you do it’ll help everyone :)

  • @Mollyjayn
    @Mollyjayn 3 роки тому

    why don't you doordash or instacart for money?

    • @AlyssaVanilla
      @AlyssaVanilla  3 роки тому +2

      I don’t live in a place that has either of those things