From Mortgage to Freedom: Nomad Living in a Truck Shell | Super Cheap $60 Truck Camper Build

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  • Опубліковано 14 лип 2023
  • Subscribe: / @cheaprvliving
    Dan is living in his F150 truck with a custom USA Camper Shell after making the bold decision to trade his mortgage and belongings for a life on the road. Living with very few possessions, Dan has embraced a nomadic life of simplicity and liberation. He managed to build an entire interior for a mere $60. This super affordable truck camper build proves that you don't need a hefty budget to pursue your dreams of freedom and adventure.
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 691

  • @markmeador1137
    @markmeador1137 11 місяців тому +242

    This man’s story sounds almost the same as mine. I had a heart attack at 63 and could no longer work. I lost my house and property when I didn’t have any income. I found an old travel trailer to live in until I could start collecting social security. I have never been happier. No mortgage, no taxes.

    • @cathleenweston3541
      @cathleenweston3541 9 місяців тому +25

      Me too. I am in my lil travel trailer until SS kicks in in Dec. Then I'll be hitting to road which for me is to save money, get out of California and enjoy being away from people including kids. Plus I'm a hiker and camper traveller.

    • @georgewagner7787
      @georgewagner7787 9 місяців тому +19

      Never thought about this aspect, no taxes

    • @trace8153
      @trace8153 9 місяців тому +16

      and i bet you and your heart love it

    • @Anonymous-tl6zu
      @Anonymous-tl6zu 7 місяців тому

      The government has plenty money for wars giving tax dollars to other countries But nothing for US citizens

    • @felicefiore6783
      @felicefiore6783 6 місяців тому +7

      I wish 🙂 Good luck to you Sounds like this vehicle is perfect👍✌️🇨🇦

  • @quash8
    @quash8 11 місяців тому +164

    True minimalist: I still find stuff I want to get rid of.

  • @kathyweber793
    @kathyweber793 11 місяців тому +219

    God Bless this man. I'm doing the same thing. I'm now renovating an RV myself. Lost my husband in Feb of this year. We were both planning on selling property and living in rv on the road. Now it's just me. I'm in the process of selling everything... donating or giving away. My rv is looking gorgeous inside. I'm doing it all myself with tiny help with the sink and counters. I'll be 68 next month. (WA state).

    • @seph4667
      @seph4667 11 місяців тому +12

      You go, girl!

    • @gasstationpeanuts1814
      @gasstationpeanuts1814 11 місяців тому +13

      Condolences for your loss. It's a great tribute to his memory and to your future that you're continuing the plans you shared to hit the open road!

    • @Muttaqee36
      @Muttaqee36 10 місяців тому +11

      Show us make a you tube video please of your RV !

    • @igorrosales1799
      @igorrosales1799 10 місяців тому +10

      Hi kathy I’m in WA state too (Seattle) and would love to see your RV

    • @richardhowe5583
      @richardhowe5583 10 місяців тому +9

      What year model and make of RV do you have? I am looking for suggestions because I want to do the same thing.. thanks 👍

  • @lindaohia6938
    @lindaohia6938 11 місяців тому +277

    He is so right about not having debt. It is absolutely freeing to not owe folks.

    • @onezero9512
      @onezero9512 11 місяців тому

      Absolutely, the entire USA is run on debt; it's really high time to get banks out of our personal lives and government; votes don't count as long as banks keep spreading money around.

    • @williamhanlon8159
      @williamhanlon8159 11 місяців тому +12

      You can be wealthy and not have debt . It's true.

    • @blueamenaa749
      @blueamenaa749 6 місяців тому +2

      It's so true.❤❤❤

  • @MernieLove
    @MernieLove 11 місяців тому +268

    I love Dan’s faith! He’s so humble and so gentle!

    • @richardj.chaparrosr.9810
      @richardj.chaparrosr.9810 11 місяців тому +10

      🙏🏼👌🏼🙂💯💯💯

    • @dantimber
      @dantimber 11 місяців тому +8

      God Bless 🙏

    • @mtaylor2901
      @mtaylor2901 11 місяців тому +9

      I thought this same thing.
      This video made my heart happy. To see someone feel ‘free’ and Peaceful after suffering a life changing injury is inspiring. Wishing Dan many safe and happy years in his rig!

    • @prettyinpink7058
      @prettyinpink7058 10 місяців тому +6

      Ditto on that li love Dans faith.

  • @theWanderView
    @theWanderView 11 місяців тому +164

    I'm so happy for everyone who pushes past fear and dives into Nomad life, especially solo. It might be a different kind of fear for men and women. For us women, it is often about safety but for men it might be more about being alone with their emotions, spirituality, and perhaps for the first time "self-care" for themselves, men often have to hold emotions in and it is beautiful to see men get out there and be filled with gratitude and embrace the emotion to be free and surrounded by beauty. Blessings to you all!

  • @johndavid3132
    @johndavid3132 11 місяців тому +46

    Everything he articulated fits me to the T! I too have a chronic illness and got my worth and value from my job. I bought an older motorhome and moved into it back in April of this year. I took my retirement at 63 and have absolutely no debt other than living expenses and repairs and maintenance which I have learned comes with owning an older motorhome. Lesson learned! Buying an older RV can be a expensive undertaking if things break but it doesn't discourage me.
    My spiritual walk and awareness with My Lord and Saviour Yahusha/Jesus has become my main focus now that I have no worldly bondage. Freedom from debt allows more freedom from the traps of materialism.
    I highly recommend this lifestyle for anyone that wants to avoid the bondage of the American Dream/ Nightmare. 💯🙏❤️

  • @terryqueen3233
    @terryqueen3233 11 місяців тому +22

    I looked up USA campers and it really wasn't that easy to find but I finally did find it. I have ordered my camper and now I have to drive all the way across country to get it which is from West Virginia all the way over to California but that particular camper would be ideal for me I'm a lot smaller than that young man and just like him I don't need a lot anymore so hopefully it won't be long till I'll be on the road, the Lord willing and the creek don't rise. Thank you so much for this video I keep watching it over and over because I'll be living in one soon. Happy trails to all and hopefully I'll be seeing "you" soon. PS it was in Montclair California

    • @SusiesRepeat
      @SusiesRepeat 4 місяці тому +2

      You probably won’t see this but would like to see how you got on.

    • @patriciamunson3220
      @patriciamunson3220 3 місяці тому +1

      You are lucky. They are now closed down. I looked them up😢

  • @TS-rd7oy
    @TS-rd7oy 11 місяців тому +102

    I finally took the plunge and got on the road in early May of this year (2023) to escape the Florida heat. I worked on my van for 4 months, getting it ready to live and work remotely from. This has been one of the best decisions I've made in a long time. I will return to my bricks and mortar house in 3 months and decide whether to rent it out or sell it. It took about a week to adjust to life on the road. I also work so had to fit that all in. One thing I will caution people about.....this kind of life is for a person who is absolutely comfortable being alone. If you can't be alone without sinking into depression or anxiety, don't do this, or do it with another person. I'm a person who has always been comfortable being alone, so it isn't an issue for me. But I think about the people I know and I KNOW they could never do this comfortably. Cheers Bob and thank you for all your great videos! I used your recommendation for my refrigerator and it works like a gem :)

    • @Ifixstuf
      @Ifixstuf 11 місяців тому +14

      You have to be ok with you. Being alone isn't for everyone. You can find convoys to attach to that maybe ease the burden.

    • @TS-rd7oy
      @TS-rd7oy 11 місяців тому +12

      ​@Ifixstuf I'm OK being alone. In fact, mos of the time I prefer it.

    • @joevil6259
      @joevil6259 11 місяців тому +7

      I'm travelling with my Ram Promaster next to Lake Michigan. Best summer weather I've experienced in my life and beautiful too

    • @joevil6259
      @joevil6259 11 місяців тому +7

      @@Ifixstuf Yes expectations are very important. With this lifestyle you need to like yourself. It is not a social affair.

    • @borg_wow
      @borg_wow 10 місяців тому +5

      Rent it out. If you are lucky enough to have property, NEVER get rid of it. Always rent it out.

  • @davidmccaffery7977
    @davidmccaffery7977 11 місяців тому +7

    Simple living is good living. Freedom is everything

  • @Zorazora1234
    @Zorazora1234 11 місяців тому +36

    very humble man, all the best with your healing recovery ..
    He kept saying “ I’m free”… yes indeed.. no light gas mortgage … free!!!! A relief
    I’m always finding things I want to get rid off ..
    I can so relate to how in our society you associate your worth with a job and don’t even realize it .. so condition …

  • @bryantford3054
    @bryantford3054 11 місяців тому +106

    Wish you a full recovery, Dan. Four months ago (on 3/16) I was a passenger in a commercial vehicle rollover. Broke 7 ribs & had multiple pelvic fractures. Worker’s comp was difficult, to say the least. Back on light duty at work. Still in pain, but I’m walking. 👍🏻 Thirty years ago I sold everything, bought an old RV & traveled 2.5 years. Having no debt was the best part. Freedom!!! 🇺🇸

  • @steveh.5055
    @steveh.5055 11 місяців тому +45

    The more I see these tall shells the more I like them. It’s great to hear that they will build them tall enough to stand up in. Thanks for sharing!

    • @pattya1679
      @pattya1679 11 місяців тому +7

      I got mine from Belair. I have a short bed and they couldn't go as high as I wanted due to the wind resistance and weight above and on the bed rails. It was a safety issue. So I can't quite stand up in mine but I had them make it 80 inches wide so I can sleep sideways, not above but below. I love the freedom to just get in and go. Important to me is sitting up in bed, having floor space and room for a power station and a refrigerator. It works great!

  • @marthavh2678
    @marthavh2678 11 місяців тому +20

    Simplicity...
    Debt free (dom)...
    Limitless backyards...
    Limitless family and friend's...
    Happiness! 😊❤👏👍

  • @Vera-dc7my
    @Vera-dc7my 11 місяців тому +15

    It’s called USA camper shell in Montclair CA. took a while to find but found it.

    • @FeMiNem-Poet
      @FeMiNem-Poet 11 місяців тому +1

      Thank you!!!!!🪷🪷🪷

    • @MatrxBstr
      @MatrxBstr 8 місяців тому

      Yes. Not easy to find. Doesn’t seem to be the one. Anyone have more info? Still looking.

  • @ryanehlis426
    @ryanehlis426 11 місяців тому +25

    I was a truck driver 19 years and 12 years of that as an owner operator who lived in my sleeper more than I was at home, so I totally get it 😊

    • @thetravelinghoundBristol
      @thetravelinghoundBristol 8 місяців тому +10

      I too am a truck driver and i saw a meme the other day day that was rather funny. It said ,” Truck drivers..living in tiny houses before it was cool”.

  • @northerniltree
    @northerniltree 11 місяців тому +22

    I recently bought a slightly used 2020 Northern Lite camper for my 8' bed F 450 pick-up. It's nice- luxury really. But it was 60 grand, and 4500 lbs. dry. I'm looking at Dan with his lower-budget set up, and I am now realizing that this is all I need. Lighter, cheaper, and does what's necessary. I can lose the dually, and tour in a comfier, cheaper F 150. With better fuel mileage! Thanks, Dan!

    • @JakeRichardsong
      @JakeRichardsong 11 місяців тому +8

      Yep, bigger is not always better.

    • @bob_frazier
      @bob_frazier 11 місяців тому +6

      That would be from one end of the spectrum to the other, for sure.

  • @gopugmama4408
    @gopugmama4408 11 місяців тому +38

    God bless this man! So humble and so positive even when injured. He's was so courageous to say he prayed to God for help and Bob was so respectful of him. This gentleman has a bright future ahead of him!💗

  • @Frantic618
    @Frantic618 11 місяців тому +50

    Tip: If the standard 5-gallon bucket is too short, just set it inside another bucket of the same brand and size. For instance, the familiar orange "Homer" from Home Depot adds 3" -- perfect for me.

    • @tinaanderson9186
      @tinaanderson9186 11 місяців тому +9

      That’s what I did!! 👍🏻

    • @5222k
      @5222k 11 місяців тому +8

      Dang good idea! And if you needed even a little more add a third.

    • @georgewagner7787
      @georgewagner7787 9 місяців тому +5

      I had to go to physical therapy because I had back pain from teaching from a chair on zoom. If you do work up to 30 squats a day, sorry every other day. You will not have this problem. It's important to do this the older you get. This guy evidently has some pain so he may not be able to but the rest of us over 60 had better get going

  • @heather333
    @heather333 11 місяців тому +9

    A man who has found happiness and peace. Beautiful.

  • @martina21953
    @martina21953 11 місяців тому +15

    I love how the whole back end opens up! The one good thing about getting older is that we start shrinking, so we need less height in our campers!

  • @ladeene06
    @ladeene06 11 місяців тому +12

    Oh but the rods-n-reels under the bed just makes it perfect, doesn't it? You now have true freedom. My dad and I argue over the definition...he calls it "a total lack of responsibility " and I call it freedom. Both are correct I suppose. Thanks Bob. This is a good one. 🇺🇸❤

    • @LucasLand
      @LucasLand 4 місяці тому

      finding a way to live without a mortgage and bills is showing he doesn't have a lack of responsibility

  • @sail4free1
    @sail4free1 11 місяців тому +36

    My first camper was an insulated truck bed shell (about 6" taller than the cab) already on a '72 3/4 ton that I ended up keeping for 38 years! So I can relate!

  • @debbiejohnson5550
    @debbiejohnson5550 11 місяців тому +22

    I really like how the whole back raises up. Makes for a great canopy.

  • @slackleashdogtraining3598
    @slackleashdogtraining3598 11 місяців тому +21

    What a great man of truth and integrity, humility, and faithful celebratory joyful citizen. What a brave man to over come so much…. and re-inventing his life strategy to fit him so well after all his troubles. My sense is he IS BACK! And has figured out not just a new strategy BUT A WINNNING, HEALING, Winning, reducing stress. Great plans on how to improve it.

  • @sandydouglas3799
    @sandydouglas3799 10 місяців тому +20

    I love Dan's minimalist camper. It has everything he needs and no more. It looks serene. Thank you for allowing us to see it.

  • @joshlynkaufman8653
    @joshlynkaufman8653 11 місяців тому +55

    I love how he talks about the freedom, and never wanting to go back into debt. Good job with a simple build. It shows you can be happy and comfortable.

  • @Mike.Caimbeul
    @Mike.Caimbeul 11 місяців тому +21

    Perfect example of simplicity and low cost, BRAVO Dan.

  • @cbeaucrawford
    @cbeaucrawford 11 місяців тому +27

    Very nice minimalist camper, great to be able to stand, otherwise you create more pain. I am inspired to clean up my rig and be more selective about what stays. Happy travels

  • @WisconsinWanderer
    @WisconsinWanderer 11 місяців тому +19

    So much truth to not being in debt that’s where the freedom comes in! Thanks Dan and Bob😊

  • @jerrydimond4759
    @jerrydimond4759 11 місяців тому +20

    That is a great set up for a minimalist and you are always following the best weather.

  • @ricksgypsy2512
    @ricksgypsy2512 11 місяців тому +11

    I am enjoying living out of my SUV part-time. I love being out in nature as well as visiting different cities.

    • @ricksgypsy2512
      @ricksgypsy2512 11 місяців тому +7

      I forgot to say I am so grateful to Bob for his channel. I learned about this when I was recovering from a stroke. His content kept me motivated. ❤

  • @mlake07
    @mlake07 11 місяців тому +29

    I've get a similar setup. Adding a propane fully vented Propex heater improved my quality of life 1000%. I can camp comfortably into the low teens. And its thermostat controlled so set at maybe 50° when I sleep and I'm comfy all night.

  • @pietersmit109
    @pietersmit109 11 місяців тому +21

    What a super engaging guy. Guy is so bright. Amazing to see how little is needed to get by and yet have so much solace. Thanks for posting.

  • @daynadiggle8169
    @daynadiggle8169 11 місяців тому +27

    I think you hit it out of the park again , Bob , and what a nice fella he is ! Just goes to show you that you can find happiness living the minimalist lifestyle .

  • @Zoet50
    @Zoet50 11 місяців тому +8

    What ever the obstacles, gratitude helps. This man has the right attitude.

  • @donwyates
    @donwyates 11 місяців тому +16

    Keepin' it simple! Cheap, less to go wrong, only what's needed. I like it!
    I was watching a video yesterday about expenses incurred on a big 5th wheel and truck to pull it, and thought: Even if I HAD the money, I wouldn't want to set it on fire. 😆 Oddly, the man was not crying.

  • @nancycain4434
    @nancycain4434 11 місяців тому +13

    It was nice to meet another Belair camper shell owner .I wish I would have went to u.s.a. camper instead of the Bel-Air down in Southern California. I probably would have saved myself some money, but I really like my camper shell. I was able to fix it up exactly the way I wanted it, and I got a fantastic fan put in the top, which I really like. But I really like his setup which is solar he looks like he has got plenty of that. Thanks again Bob for introducing us to Dan.

    • @pattya1679
      @pattya1679 11 місяців тому +4

      Hi Nancy. I have a Belair too. Yes it would have been nice to buy direct, but I really like my shell as well. I had them put in a Maxair fan and love it. I'm always making changes to it. But I am so comfortable to sleep. I really like that I can go where I want and my hotel is with me.

  • @78twood
    @78twood 11 місяців тому +49

    Simple, lightweight and functional!! Love that you can fit in a regular parking space 💜 Hope you continue to heal sir and God bless you 🙏

  • @alexanderweaver7066
    @alexanderweaver7066 11 місяців тому +28

    Dan, great job on your rebuild and DIY builds. I left a beautiful home in Virginia after downsizing to rid myself of all the expenses of owning a home. I bought a GMC Savana cargo van and converted the interior to fit my lifestyle and my needs

  • @mickylawless1941
    @mickylawless1941 11 місяців тому +56

    I love these high top camper shells. Lightweight and practical. These rigs can get into much more remote country, over a full sized camper. THIS is how I will be going nomad! Congratulations Dan on a great rig!

  • @haroldleedye7755
    @haroldleedye7755 11 місяців тому +19

    Hey Bob thanks for doing another pick up truck with a bolt on shell 🙂 And prayers for healing & recovery, Amen. This is a great lightweight system and one could also do a 6x10 x 7h cargo trailer.

  • @DEllis-ql4go
    @DEllis-ql4go 11 місяців тому +9

    Just checked Goggle, It's in Montclair, CA

  • @retirementbootcampoff-grid237
    @retirementbootcampoff-grid237 11 місяців тому +7

    Good luck in your healing journey. 🌠

  • @GetReadyPrepping
    @GetReadyPrepping 11 місяців тому +4

    Honestly it looks very cozy and i love the use of the tablet for entertainment. They are really getting to the point where they can replace tvs and computers and dont take very much to power them

  • @katemiller8113
    @katemiller8113 11 місяців тому +13

    Love this build. Want a truck camper but don’t like sleeping in the cabover space…great alternative idea. Thanks for the reference for the shell producer.

    • @pattya1679
      @pattya1679 11 місяців тому +2

      I have a Belair camper shell. I sleep across the window by the cab as I have a short bed camper and I'm tall. I already had the truck so this is what worked. It's rustic, like a kid fort but I mostly have what I need for long trips.

  • @ericjensen1007
    @ericjensen1007 11 місяців тому +28

    Reminds me of my old rig I stayed in while working 20-hour days.
    Blessings to Dan for sharing his home with us, and much thanx to Bob for all the dedication to helping us folks with rethinking Life.

  • @tja3495
    @tja3495 11 місяців тому +68

    Thank you, Bob, for providing information on different available lifestyles for living on the road. Good luck to Dan on his continued recovery on the road.

  • @michellestratford9753
    @michellestratford9753 11 місяців тому +5

    He seems like such a wonderful gentle soul. What a wonderful attitude he has ❤🥰

  • @gikar1948
    @gikar1948 11 місяців тому +7

    Dan, your rig and way of life and no debt is much to be proud of. Good fortune to you and may you continue to heal.

  • @MrC9Oh3
    @MrC9Oh3 10 місяців тому +2

    This is how a lot of people will be living soon. Sad thing is most people couldn't even afford this..

  • @Frank-James
    @Frank-James 11 місяців тому +12

    So happy to see he was able to find a way to make it in difficult circumstances.

  • @ramontoro
    @ramontoro 11 місяців тому +9

    Hello from Puerto Rico to everybody , looks great that F-150 , thanks Bob for the interview

  • @jpw7598
    @jpw7598 11 місяців тому +10

    TELL HIM to put his carbon monoxide detector 10-18 inches from the floor.
    13:48

    • @tandiparent1906
      @tandiparent1906 5 місяців тому

      Thank U for the information; I'm getting ready to get 1 for my tiny house & wasn't sure where I needed to put it.

  • @jimofalltrades9281
    @jimofalltrades9281 11 місяців тому +14

    Dan, good on you for finding the source for Belair. I’m on year four in mine. I’m sure that USA built mine and I will have to reach out to them to replace my rear door. I love the simplicity of what you’ve done. Incredibly well done.

  • @SageRosemary
    @SageRosemary 11 місяців тому +6

    He seems like such a nice down to earth simple happy guy! Many blessings to you, sir!

  • @kathywimer8597
    @kathywimer8597 11 місяців тому +2

    I've considered this lifestyle for a while. Fear has stopped me. I live near the east coast and all of my family is here. I see very few fulltime on this side of the country. Is there anyone out there from the east? I live in VA. My escrow just went up $150 a month. Everything has gotten higher and i live alone. This is encouraging! Thank you

  • @julesf.
    @julesf. 11 місяців тому +16

    I've been considering a camper similar to this, but they're just incredibly expensive for me. I'll look into USA Campers. There is soooo much potential in his camper🤩 I wonder if he's thought about something like the EcoFlow Wave 2 for heat/ac? Dual/multi purpose everything is important when space is limited lol It's solar (which he has plenty of) so no worries about the cost/availability or dangers of fuel. Save the fuel for cooking. It's also small, so it doesn't take up much space. And it's fairly reasonably priced, which is a + for anyone on limited/fixed income (something I understand very well)
    Thank you Bob for showing this very nice nomad unit. It's probably one of the most exciting ones I've seen on your channel recently. Keep up the great work 👍

    • @cindylong624
      @cindylong624 11 місяців тому +1

      If you are a DIY or know someone who can build, glen-l has a variety of camper plans

  • @cinnamongirl5410
    @cinnamongirl5410 11 місяців тому +21

    Right on!! I'm really happy this guy found what makes him happy and he can just live his life. I love how the camper can be lifted or a door used.

  • @jeremytorgersen
    @jeremytorgersen 11 місяців тому +48

    Very inspiring! I always appreciate the simple, minimalist rigs. My goal is to be on the road and start my nomadic life journey by this fall/winter.

  • @user-ro1qs4bm6t
    @user-ro1qs4bm6t 11 місяців тому +7

    Good for him living the lifestyle he loves

  • @teachingbeats
    @teachingbeats Місяць тому

    I bought a USA camper shell because of this video. I picked it up today! Long story short, the guys at USA are fantastic. Every last thing went as good as I could have hoped for.
    I could not recommend them more! If you are looking for a cost effective, we'll built alternative to the big $$$ campers out there, do not hesitate to trust these guys, they are just fantastic.

  • @Graybeard_
    @Graybeard_ 11 місяців тому +5

    I am in the process of embarking on my own nomadic life. I currently own timber properties in CA and in WA. I own a sawmill, heavy equipment and a 48' X 36' shop filled with a lifetime of tools. I've spent all of my adult life being a steward to forest lands reducing fuel loads, removing understory, and protecting the largest, oldest trees while reestablishing diversity and balance to the forest. I'm satisfied with the work that I have done. Even though I am still in great shape for my age, I know that I cannot continue this lifestyle forever. I want to get out and roam with no agenda or destination. I bought a trailer designed for off road and ordered it built completely empty inside, so I can do the buildout myself. I also bought an adventure style motorcycle to extend my travels beyond the roads. I plan to be nomadic for ten years or so keeping my eye out for the place I will eventually call my last place. Perhaps a tiny house close to the sea but also close to a town, which will be different, as I've always lived way out in the woods, on the edge of the wilderness with no neighbors except the deer, bear, squirrels and such. My question for those retirees who sell everything to gain physical and financial freedom is what are your plans when you are too old to drive? What do you envision as your last place, and how will you afford it? I am financially secure enough, that I know I will be able to afford to switch back and settle back down, but I also know that not everyone out there living the nomadic lifestyle will be able to afford that switch. This is a question that keeps popping up for me, as I watch videos of those who have journeyed out ahead of me.

    • @Timmer-qp8sy
      @Timmer-qp8sy 11 місяців тому

      I want to buy your land out in the wilderness with a managed forest.

  • @jonthebru
    @jonthebru 11 місяців тому +8

    One advantage of using a camper shell over a built out truck camper is the interior space is less limited.

  • @lauraj.4721
    @lauraj.4721 11 місяців тому +19

    Love the build, love David attitude and faith. Great video!

  • @TheRock-xj7hs
    @TheRock-xj7hs 11 місяців тому +19

    All the best yo you Dan! Doing it like it can be done. Stay well. Bob, you continue to show the quality and caliber of the nomads in the desert! What a great guy! Thank you both.

  • @danzbeard
    @danzbeard 11 місяців тому +4

    Definitely dig his rig. Enjoy your peace and freedom 🙏

  • @nullhill6486
    @nullhill6486 11 місяців тому +5

    Wow I love the clean uncluttered look. Tons of space. It's like a real living room or bedroom in a house. Awesome!

  • @marysevonburns593
    @marysevonburns593 11 місяців тому +3

    he made a beautiful healthy life from a situation that seamed hopeless

  • @JosephSato-1997
    @JosephSato-1997 7 місяців тому +2

    Thank you for sharing such personal space with us. Be safe and enjoy your time wherever you are.

  • @paula...sister1of12
    @paula...sister1of12 11 місяців тому +24

    Very nice build. Simple and has all you need. Best of luck to Dan and his exciting journey ❤🙏🏻❤

  • @ritawoodfork3086
    @ritawoodfork3086 11 місяців тому +4

    I like this build. It is cozy. No need to have lots of stuff that is not used.

  • @chrisbuchanan1193
    @chrisbuchanan1193 11 місяців тому +7

    Thank you for sharing your story Dan. I'm so glad that you found peace and freedom on the road. I hope you continue to heal with time.

  • @caaront
    @caaront 11 місяців тому +3

    It will be years before I can get a truck and camper, but after much thought I have come to the conclusion that for my wife and I a truck with camper on it makes the most sense. God bless you Dan.

  • @Buck_Jones1909
    @Buck_Jones1909 11 місяців тому +76

    Soooo ready to join this life style! A camper shell is definitely one of our top options! Thank you Dan & Bob!

  • @michaelmyers3892
    @michaelmyers3892 11 місяців тому +2

    I'm fixing to do that here again very soon , fixing to buy a 93 Ford f150 extra cab pickup in good condition, I'm up in the air between a camping trailer or a topper on it may just go with the topper on it I have more freedom to get out in the back I'm so looking forward to going back to this lifestyle just pure freedom and less stress

  • @cchoi108
    @cchoi108 11 місяців тому +10

    I love this build. Nice to be able to stand up. I think the ability to stand up contributes to the feeling that it's home. Plus the nice wood interior. The Wash bowl is genius just put it on the stove to heat up. I really like these elegantly simple solutions.

  • @FloridaYalta
    @FloridaYalta 11 місяців тому +2

    Way to go … God bless this Nice man. And yes, there has to be a window

  • @maribelfarias5865
    @maribelfarias5865 11 місяців тому +3

    A sky light and fan on the roof would make it more comfy. And yes, windows on the side would complete your look.

  • @quirkydrivenlife
    @quirkydrivenlife 11 місяців тому +6

    Nice to see his joy when he talks about being free & the freedom this lifestyle brings him 👍🏻

  • @seanh4841
    @seanh4841 11 місяців тому +2

    A real sense of freedom, Bob mentioned some time ago that van life can heal you, Bob you were bang on the money

  • @CunoWiederhold
    @CunoWiederhold 11 місяців тому +5

    Awesome!
    When I retired, I pretty much sold my boat anchor (I mean house LOL) and put a camper on my truck a little smaller than the one in this video.
    I literally lived very comfortably in a 6X6-foot space for about a year.
    I was never bothered by the police, but there were some issues with drug/homeless people at a Wal-Mart parking lot one night trying to get into my camper while I was in it!
    I just yelled out "Dude, I'm throwing a bucket of sh*t on you if you don't leave!" and he left in a hurry! Good thing because it was bean burrito night! lol
    I had figured out heating, and cooling solutions too.
    The only question I'd ask myself every day was "North, South, East, or West" As far as my destination and overnight stays.
    Sometimes a shower at a truck stop is a welcome luxury! They run about $13.00/ea depending on which one you use.
    I sold off most of my stuff, I had a small storage unit, and PO Box for mail purposes.
    Other than that, I was Free, Free, Free!
    I didn't think of taking pictures so I have only a few exterior shots.
    If I do this again, I'll make Podcasts.
    If you're not married, love freedom, peace, and quiet, you might like this lifestyle, but it's not for everyone!
    How did I sleep? Like a baby! I had built a 42" platform running the width of my truck, I got a mattress from a place that sells tractor-trailers. I used my trusty wool blanket and unzipped my sleeping bag and two comfy pillows.
    I'm 6'0" tall and I was surprised that I could actually stretch out!
    I had an inverter and a 12V battery to charge my cellphone and run my Ipad so I always had entertainment.
    You create your own adventures, and meet people too!
    If I ever do this again, I'm getting a nondescript high-top Dodge van so that I don't draw attention to myself.

    • @mattwaters6987
      @mattwaters6987 11 місяців тому

      It's a good thing you had Taco Bell on your side! 😂

  • @geraldek4948
    @geraldek4948 11 місяців тому +1

    The serenity of this man

  • @saturninc3786
    @saturninc3786 11 місяців тому +11

    What a wonderful kind sweet man, Dan is! I really like his attitude and humility, and his appreciation of 'life'.Am glad he found a solution for his situation and that he finds new happiness. Nice set-up in the rig. Is cool that he can stand up in the cabin. I like how spacious it is. Seems very comfortable. I bet he can make wonderful trips through the country and go fishing and enjoy nature. Think it would be nice to have a window over the counter. But when not, maybe some pictures or so could make it a little more personal.
    Is cool that you have so much workspace on that case. Bet you can put a laptop on there and watch some videos or work. Just one question, cuz in the endshot I saw that you actually do have windows in that sidewall, but you covered it up with the inner wall. So could you change that so you can still use that window for some daylight etc? May even just put in a slide, so you can cover it again at night...
    Was just wondering if the foam supports him enough for his back, considering he is a 'big man'. I could imagine some thicker mat could be helpful?
    Dan - I think you are a fine person and I wsh you the very best. Hope you have some loving people in your life that give you strength and energy. All the best to you! Thanks Dan and Bob - bless you both.

  • @craigslistrro709
    @craigslistrro709 11 місяців тому +4

    Im 60, still working, my house is paid off and I dont have any bills, as I watch these videos, I always wonder what do these people do everyday, all day? I think it would be fun for a while, But I would go nuts not having anything to do. Going to work everyday gives me a sense of purpose, and the money I put away gives me a sense of security. When you dont have any bills, and you work, the money really piles up, and life is no longer stressful or a struggle, its actually enjoyable.

    • @pattya1679
      @pattya1679 11 місяців тому +3

      I love the freedom to travel when I want to in a similar setup as this. You are right about life being enjoyable when you are debt free. Other things give purpose, volunteering, visiting children/grandchildren, friends and family in other places, making friends traveling...

    • @libertyislandsecuritycontr5527
      @libertyislandsecuritycontr5527 11 місяців тому +3

      So what age do you plan at retiring at?? 70 or 75, I guess? I worked for a major shipping company for 35 years. It added an entirely new definition to the word: "sweatshop". Finally exiting that rat-race, was a liberating experience, indeed... Lot's of rats in that place, let me tell you...

    • @JakeRichardsong
      @JakeRichardsong 11 місяців тому +1

      Doing a job is not what purpose is. People who don't know what to do if they aren't working don't how to live.

    • @michaelsnively3621
      @michaelsnively3621 11 місяців тому +2

      Fortunately each of us has our own ideas as to what our priorities are, and what makes us happy......

    • @tandiparent1906
      @tandiparent1906 5 місяців тому

      ❤It would be really boring in this old world if we were all the same...

  • @rubyred8845
    @rubyred8845 11 місяців тому +2

    The size and the style of this set up is very smart. And tidy.

  • @cindywhalen5768
    @cindywhalen5768 11 місяців тому +13

    Bob your interviews and life give people hope! Thanks for your work!

  • @charlesforrest7678
    @charlesforrest7678 11 місяців тому +2

    Being a over the road truck-driver for 20 years, definitely can relate to this man's journey. Beats the hell out of sitting in front of boob-box day after day wasting away.

  • @ThinkHEAVEN-YouTube
    @ThinkHEAVEN-YouTube 6 місяців тому +2

    Perfect sized RV! Not too big, not too 🦐 small! The thing's beautiful ❤️!

  • @highlightoftheday7058
    @highlightoftheday7058 11 місяців тому +6

    Very nice Dan. i like the minimalist set up. everything in it's place and no clutter.

  • @kathybuchanan9470
    @kathybuchanan9470 11 місяців тому +15

    Excellent video, Bob. Truly shows the simple freedom we all deserve. Thank you, Dan!

  • @stormdavies250
    @stormdavies250 11 місяців тому +7

    Super cute set up! Sorry about your accident. Sounds incredibly painful.

  • @brendamcchristy6044
    @brendamcchristy6044 11 місяців тому +5

    Good for this guy and he will only be better being free of so many things

  • @bob_frazier
    @bob_frazier 11 місяців тому +2

    What a nice person. Bob too. Good for you Dan!

  • @michelebegor4191
    @michelebegor4191 8 місяців тому +1

    You're free! We need so little to live happily. This is a life of freedom. This is fabulous.

  • @OverlandOne
    @OverlandOne 11 місяців тому +6

    Wow, there is a lot more storage inside that camper than I pictured. He has it set up very well and has everything he needs right there. He seems very happy to be out there too. I wish him many years and many miles of safe travels.

  • @pamelanowell1
    @pamelanowell1 11 місяців тому +2

    Can hear your peace. Love how blessed you are feeling without a need for stuff. Amazing.

  • @josephcolotario6406
    @josephcolotario6406 11 місяців тому +11

    This is a really nice set up. I will look into a USA camper truck shell because of the door wall being able to lift up entirely to access the camper and to leave it up for a more spacious feel. Is the back wall, with the door, water proof from leakage during driving in the rain or while camping in rainy weather? Is the floor covered or has some sort of padding or is it just the truck bed? Can there be thicker insulation installed during construction? Sorry for all the questions, but this is really a great setup to build on. I really like your spartan shelving and it gives me more ideas to consider. Thank you for a great video!

    • @hithere7382
      @hithere7382 11 місяців тому +4

      If you can't then it's not worth the money. I'm sure the manufacturer would be out of business if the rear hatch didn't seal. A propane furnace or a diesel heater would be super economical to run in a properly insulated volume like that.

    • @pattya1679
      @pattya1679 11 місяців тому +3

      I have a Belair camper shell. There is no leaking from the back door or anywhere so far. Almost a year and we had a wet one..

  • @annag467
    @annag467 2 місяці тому

    My partner and i installed a diesel heater in my campervan, it gets to be 85F within 15 min while it's 30F outside. If the stovetop works for you, no need for the diesel heater. I love to roast myself in heat but I discovered that other people generally do not. Great build 👏 elegant in simplicity

  • @cherigoodwin5846
    @cherigoodwin5846 11 місяців тому +7

    Thank you so much for mentioning that the 7 1/2 gal bucket is taller! I probably would have never thought of that and a 5 gal bucket is just not high enough with my arthritis. I was going to have to figure out some way of anchoring a handle securely so I could pull up with it and there aren't many ways to securely install one of those in a camper.

    • @Rick-qf5de
      @Rick-qf5de 11 місяців тому +1

      A 5-gallon paint bucket is taller than a 5-gallon mud bucket... Or home Depot bucket... At 6-foot one , with 36in inseam I don't have a problem on either one..... And I use a transmission funnel with a short hose for a urinal in the garage and in the back of the truck...