Kombi Life ,I'm really surprised #2 wasn't actually going #2! lol. One of the hardest things of living in a vehicle. :) Hey, have you seen Jordan,the sailboat guy?
I think not having a bathroom is the worst. I lived in a cab of a pickup for a summer ( talk about cabin fever), number 2 sucks also. One time I was sleeping with the window down and a Cop used his night stick to tap me on the head to move along rather than on the door. That memory does stick out, but always feeling dirty and using public rest rooms or being told ( The restroom is for customers only ) is a huge downside when in populated areas.
I loved living in my van in winter ..so cozy ...I live in a truck conversion now so life is easy but I look back at those days with fondness ( 15 years on the road and loving it) 👁👍🙏❤️
Right? Insulate it well and your own body heat keeps it nice in there. You barely even need a coil heater much and not at all if you seal off the front cabin air so the giant windshield and windows heat up the air there all morning then use a vent and fan to heat up the rear.
I heard a few life hacks from a fellow van lifer. 1 is to get a gym pass. Not only can you stay in shape and stay active but you will also have showers. 2 is that coffee shops are your friend. Free wifi, food, coffee, bathroom. Great place to get work done
I've seen a lot of van dwellers who get a nationwide gym membership to shower. Planet Fitness is 24hrs. Hobo Ahle has a video on how to make an awesome portable shower.
I appreciate the two of you being very ethical by sharing the truth of this lifestyle choice. You could have easily taken the opposite direction like a director and producer by just showing the glamorous portion of the lifestyle to the fullest extension and cleverly coming up with potential solutions for any problems that exist. You could have hired more actors to pose as friends that help out with all your problems, and made it seem great and problem-free. This ethical video had no misleading information. I'm sure you guys got a lot of good karma for this video. Thank you.
Thanks guys! So many people don't show this side and it's super helpful for those of us dreaming about van life. It helps me appreciate my brick and mortar house instead of wishing for something else.
Hey, don't forget off of most every major highway (in the US) there are state maintained rest stops you are free to park and take a rest in. I don't know about sleeping there every night consistently. But you could get away with it once in a while.
I TRULY appreciate you making this video, as too many people think it's extremely easy, if you're living in a home on wheels. Honesty is always the best policy.
Completely agree! Wife dog and I just completed first 4 months van livin with a rather rash race home. 8k miles and 22 states at the end it seemed the bad outweighed the good, but in reality the bad became so overwhelming the good barely shined at all. The shit hitting the "van" was worst of all. South western US states reached 116F in the shade. Couldn't get out of the desert, never really recovered. The worst is when you are out you are prey! Exp to auto mechanics. If you want something done right you MUST DO IT YOURSELF! Thanks for the vid! We will still do it again!
I've just discovered this lifestyle, and I believe the best part about having all of these resources available is that it allows one to learn to find a middle ground, so to speak. Part of living a happy life is about finding balance. For me, living in a van full time wouldn't work. But setting up a van to camp in and go on weekend excursions with? HELL YAH!!! So that's what I'm setting out to do. :-) Thanks for sharing all of your experiences with us. -Safe travels.
I have a feeling a lot of these problems are really '10 worst things living in a small old van'?! A slightly bigger, newer van that is reliable, with a shower would solve a lot of these problems. At least I hope it will :)
It really solves a lot of them. Planning for storage, easy conversion and powersupply also helps a lot. Not much problems in a sprinter van, looks like the other comercial vehicles (except high tec digital nomad camping utilities on the roof) and has modern parts that are in stock everywhere. Its just one like "all the other standard trucks". 550w of amorphic solar really helps to run laptops, shower and a freezer/fans/microwave. Fans also keep out moisture. Outside the city or on campgrounds, you can use a attached tent as a shower and entry tent to keep out bugs and dirt. And it gets cleaned every morning with the shower. Im using it only for month long projects or holidays, but its MUCH better suited as a fulltime vehicle than a small vw that was intended for weekend getaways. But even some students that stay in them next to some universities ive visited dont have much problems. Shower at gym, wifi and cooking from the cafeteria.
Eat Sleep Van yeah Definitely. in a sprinter or Crafter type van with more room that you can stand up in makes a huge difference. I've been living the "van life" for over a year now in a swb transporter t5 and if I don't shower at the gym, I can fill my sink with warm soap water, wash myself off with a washcloth, and I don't smell like a hippy Gypsy. I'm going to upgrade to a Crafter van lwb soon and make a proper set up but I won't be installing a shower because they waste water. I can wash myself sufficiently well with 1.5 ltrs of water. try doing that in a shower!
I must say: an underpowered, overworked, air-cooled, carbureted, 50-year-old four-cylinder is most decidedly NOT the powerplant I'd select to propel my entire life. Pushing your van, yourself, and everything you own up hills and mountains, down steep declines, through snow and rain and 100-plus-degree heat, and along the Interstate at 70mph is gonna call for more horsepower and better reliability than what Germany fielded as an economy export in the 1960s.
Great stories and insights into van life. I might say though I think half of those problems would be fixed with changes to the kind of van you convert and how it's set up and built inside. I.E. condensation prob would be fixed with good insulation and a venting/air-flow, winter cold is managable if you seal off the front driver cabin from the rear with insulation completely dividing it, turning the front into a small greenhouse which heats the air up rapidly, adn then just use a tiny fan/vent combo somewhere to then heat up the rear of the cabin in the morning to ease that cold bite. Also, the shuffle thing can be avoided if you arrange everything so it's always out. I personally chose to not have a bed/sofa conversion type set up. I'm fine with just a bed and a couple cushions I can use as a back rest.
I'm at number 8 - living in a 1971 bus in Berkeley - she needs work done to get her back on the road, but the income stream has been nil. After 35 years of van life, my favorite times were when I was younger - everything was cheaper, VW mechanics were more plentiful, and people weren't as uptight about it. I spent a lot of my days living around the Central Coast of California. I still love it and would love to be on the move this summer.
kimba People are uptight because gentrification has replaced your former middle class neighbors with yuppies, and they resent being gouged for housing, while seeing an example of someone (you) showing them that other viable options exist. It's as if they paid full price, then saw someone with a coupon... carnal jealousy and nothing more.
Luckily I am nestled onto a block of lovely open-minded people who have accepted me (for the time being) as "their person" which, I'm sure, means "their eccentric". I'm always surprised when someone from the neighborhood stops by and tells me a VW story from their past, or when younger people walk by and take selfies with her. There are some good things that can happen with Number 8, it just sucks being financially stuck.
I'm not sure that's quite right. I think that more people are worried about the damned tweekers living in their vehicles that bring crime and problems. I have no problem with people who want to live off grid or on the fringes for a life purpose. Tweekers suck!
Oh yes, the tweekers. I ran into a pack of them last summer, I won't say where. I was on a road trip, in a different car. I felt compassion and empathy for them while at the same time wanting to punch their lights out as they were desecrating sacred space while thinking what they were doing was cool. It was like being in a scene from a dystopian sci-fi film. Now that I think of it, we have our own brand of tweekers here, along with the mentally ill, that live in vans, but they are mostly campers in the city parks. I think that's why my neighbors like having me around, because just by having my presence there, they don't park on our street.
I was once using a restroom at a marina here back when the pod was running and while I was brushing my teeth this woman came in and she hesitated and looked at me and then went on to wash her hands. I lightly explained that I was using the restroom to wash up because I live in my van and it was getting close to bed time. Her jaw dropped and I could see the gears turning in her head. After a moment she said, " Wow, you don't look homeless - and you have really good teeth!" I have so many stories like this from the last few years. It never used to be like that - people never used to make assumptions like that.
I can't believe your list doesn't contain the problem of going to the bathroom when you have no loo on board. I'm less worried about taking a shower every day than I am about needing a toilet several times a day...
you use the bathroom outside like when you're camping. if you have to poop you dig a hole and do you business and cover it up with the dirt. if you're in a more developed area then there are lots of bathrooms in business and parks.. etc.. it's not that hard
My #1 complaint after only just beginning van life...BEING COLD! My van isn't built up yet but I wanted to get on the road. I didn't think I'd wake up to 3" of snow at Yellowstone in JUNE for God's sake, but that's exactly what happened. Nearly froze! My 2# gripe is somewhat connected to the first, once it warmed up I nearly cooked inside the van and if I went outside where it was nice I got ate up by bugs. I am working on fixing these issues! Great video btw! ;-)
Well 44JesusIsLord44 the issue for me was that there was a winter storm that hit Yellowstone like a lion and once it passed the sun was bearing down and I had no tree cover at my campsite. Had I known about the approaching storm I could have put off my trip for a couple days and had I known about the heat of Yellowstone's sun in June I could have picked a campsite with trees. For my long term journeying I WILL keep your advice in mind...north in the summer, south in the winter! Thank you!
There are top notch bug sprays now that work 100%. Google is your friend. Safe for your skin and insides? I don't know but expect to find out in 10yrs or so.
If you two are ever in the Dallas Texas neck of the woods, come camp in my gated driveway and connect to my wifi. We are south of downtown in a beautifully tree 🌲 covered part of town, near a great state park! I'm serious, all of your commenters are my witnesses!!!
Love it. Very helpful. I've been traveling solo RTW for two years...and now I'm heading home to tackle life in a van. This ebook is perfect timing. Can't wait to read it!
What about personal safety? Did anyone tried to break in and steal anything or even just hazard for no good reason..? Thank you for sharing the 'not so dandy side' of living in a van, its really important and I appreciate it!
I watched a video about a dude that turned a work van into a tiny room with a bed so he could skate all over, and now I am getting recommendations for people that live in vans telling you that it sucks. Thanks UA-cam. I wasn't considering ever living in a van, but good looking out.
Finally some of the issues I also face. The knock, mechanical failures and sleeping places are the worst. It's not that glamorous, but sure has it's perks.
Thanks . You both reminded me why I bought a 3 bedroom house ( mobile home ). I have renters. That helps a lot. It's called van dwelling for a reason. You dwell on the things you don't have. I love living in one place. I lived in a travel trailer over ten years. I had to move it , filling the water tank ect. It was just a lot of work and a pain. I have slept in my car before too, funnnnn. I have 3 vans but I don't live in them. I hope the best for you. Freedom is what you make it. I don't enjoy hunting around for stuff, water ,toilet, ice, asking my friends to help me. At the library all day because it's to hot or cold out. Thanks again.
I just spent a few months on the road living out of my truck, tent, and the occasional cheap motel. It did suck when rainy weather stuck around for a few days. I have a membership to 24 Hour Fitness so I showered there, plus if I spent a lot of time driving, it was a welcome break to get in a workout. On the plus side, I went from San Diego up to Vancouver BC and back. It was great! Great video guys.
Thanks for your link. A tip I've installed a Camco Wave 3 catalytic heater behind my passenger seat. Keeps me warm to 20F and snow. A water absorbing fiber or 2 is required!
That was good😃 We live n a tiny house but we love our camper van too. I think your best tip in this video is planning stays outside the van. I would say, everyone may not be able to afford paying rent for an entire season but maybe a weekend at family or friends apartment could be fun, an opportunity to reconnect as well as not too expensive.
Such a good video guys. A lot of people have this romantic view of what Van Life or what a life of constant travel is like. One of the things that really got to me on my trip across Australia in our Kombi, was the heat and the flies. SO MANY FLIES. And there is no escape from them as it so hot, you always have your windows down, so they just get in. I have had the "Oh your a Hippy" thing so many times while I have been "Van Lifing" in my kombi. I got told to get a job a few times, stop bludging on the dole. I couldn't bring myself to explain to them that I was driving from Perth to Hobart, to start my training for my job with the Australian Antarctic Division. Always love watching your videos. One Life, One Search, Peace Out, Shane
I lived in a van for 3-6 months while working in an office 9-5 .. I had to find a different place to park and sleep every night as I was not in a "van friendly" area.. and it bloody sucked.. the whole experience was horrible. living in a van is awesome if you don't have to work... but trying to balance it with work is not fun.
When I lived in a ford ranger pickup truck (single cab), I stayed at a truck stop. Nobody bothered me. Sometimes dudes wanted to wash my hubcaps for a dollar. Other than the occasional vagrant dude, the truck stop people were more than happy that I was buying stuff on a daily basis.
I´m so in love with this channel :) It´s great what you do and what you share on here :D Thank you for keeping up such amazing content, it must be a lot of work.
#11 - Being a Nomad in a Van for 20 years, suddenly realizing, you'd be 2/3 of the way to pay off your mortgage and being vested in a pension. I was an Artist for 10 years and at the age of 30, I realized I couldn't retire on Social Security so I changed jobs. This allowed me to retire at 60 debt free. My house is paid off and I own all of my cars.
Great list ya'll...For me though I think the number one thing that sucks about van life is money. Having an income is a must...if you dont this lifestyle is hell.
Unless of course if you live in a van with all the mod cons have you been to the caravan shows have a look at the real rv"s.I would work hard for a year or two buy a real RV and then start the van life.
It doesn't even take more coin, look at what they are rolling in! I could pick up a 24-30ft clean RV for the cost of their VW, I'd perch like a king and still have cash left over.
Just subbed to you-we are looking at going on the road with the family in a house bus of sorts-so it's refreshing to see the other side of travel life! Thanks looking forward to your other videos and I can't wait to start our vlog bus family life!
Thanks for sharing your guys knowledge, I really appreciate it. I'm about to live in my tiny Acura RSX until I drive across the country to AZ to buy a decent van. I will check out your book also, I will need things to read in my downtime :)
Suggestions for a few issues. Modern van with head room. Standing up would help a lot. Kitchen area and bed area always available with electric panels and even possibly a hot water heater on demand. Very small wood stove.
I lived in an SUV for 18 months several years ago. While the things you mentioned are valid, there was a solution to one of them. I live in TEXAS. Winter is the best time to live in your car here. During the summer it can be much too hot to sleep. During the winter, it's good to have a sleeping bag rated to 20 below zero. I slept like a baby.
Thank you for the honesty... For me I plan on boondocking in the wilderness but cause that's what calls to me... And avoid the city as much as possible. But I know I'll have to go there periodically, I'm trying to out together the positives and negatives you don't often hear of the negatives.
I ordered the book and an pleased with it. Its a good way to get all their experience without having to make hundreds of mistakes on our own (and we are about to move into our van). Thanks!
Thank you so much for your kind words, we're stoke that you like the book. If you have 30 seconds, please leave a review on our site so others can benefit from these words. kombilife.com/product/van-dwelling-ebook-guide/#reviews
I have no want or need to do this but I find the lifestyle interesting. This video was the first I have seen from you two and it was really well done. The other channels I have seen seem more thrown together. Subbed. Thanks for the great video guys! Good Luck!
Thanks for showing both sides of the story. You're right. 99.9% of these videos only glamorize it and we all know that nothing is always fun. I think another problem with this lifestyle is eventually most people will want to have kids and live in a house and inflation just keeps making homes more expensive. so it's good to get a home as soon as possible and then figure out a way to travel on the side, when the weather is good! It is possible with some budgeting and patience. I suggest all young folks read "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "The Richest Man in Babylon". Or just look up the audio books on UA-cam. Will change your life.
"Weeks without a proper shower..." Here in the States we have national gym chains. About $20 a month for unlimited hot showers, and a work out, and there is usually at least 20 in every state. For example, my gym has 177 locations in Florida alone. Cheap, easy way to stay clean. 😁 Also, need a place to sleep for a night? Walmart parking lots allow for truckers and travellers to sleep, for free, no hastle.
The van life Shuffle! Made me literally laugh out loud! Been living that van Life for almost 3 months now. I feel like everyday I move everything and put it in a different spot. Nice because it gets a little bit more efficient every time it seems
@kombilife, I just like y'all... You talk about real stuff. I lived in my car while/whilst (?) on Dead tour in the '90's and I can't wait to get back to the nomadic life. That being said, it ain't for everyone. I have both gained and lost friends over these facets of life on the continual move. Really great video... Maybe I'll see you at the jubilee...
Van Life... Holy Hell! between 1985 and 1995 when i was living in a Dodge Extended Maxi Van, Chasing the Grateful Dead across the country they called me a "Vagrant" -so its van life now? wow. I was either at Rainbow, on the Lot at the shows. OR... seeking #2 from your list. LOL never again. ten years was enough. wow.
Glad you've made this video! I am guessing you have heard of the story of over here in Australia about vanlife on the program called the link (hopefully you can see it on ABC iview or see transcript at ABC Australia), where videos were show of you but weren't named directly... Either way Great response!
Disguising! You might want to consider sending a complaint and see where it goes www.acma.gov.au/Industry/Broadcast/Television/TV-content-regulation/commercial-television-code-of-practice-tv-content-regulation-i-acma
Public swimming pools are the answer to the showering problem, you get the exercise and the free bath of the swim and then a nice hot shower in the changing room... And most large towns have a laundrette to wash clothes so no real excuse to stink.
I learned pretty much all one needs to know about "living on the road" back in '69/'70-ish at 9-10 years old. Our family camped in a "nimrod seventy" POP UP Trailer b-hind a '66 2door Ford Galaxie 500. Did I mention a family of 5 ?? Camper sleeps 7 max. It was the sanity saver in conjunction with "KOA Kampgrounds" all the way across AMERICA (Boston, MA to ANAHEIM, CA -Disneyland). I HIGHLY recommend y'all locate a popup or hardside liftup that has a mini-bath. That will solve 75-80% of your frustrations. That, and don't rely quite sobmuch on FREE overnites. Campgrounds are much less expensive than hotels, even w/utility hookups. Y'all need to do some more research to locate Items that you can use for the basics. I notice that y'all didn't think thru the toilet facilitation issue too well. You never mentioned it at least. Portapotties (fold seat w/bags)/ "bumperdumpers" similar that clamp to the bumper. Check camping supply stores or hunting suppliers for nifty cool stuff you will definetly need. Good luck in your continuing sage!! 😉😆
Get a gym membership to take showers in, try and sleep in the suburbs ideally in a hotel parking lot or strip map bar lol, always always always choose digital nomad over traditional work (I telework with a known tech company), meetup.com is your friend :), build a heater into the van, and constantly be educating yourself so you can come back better then you left/ not get bored (certifications, online college, etc).
Many of the things on their list can be easily avoided. A gym membership helps for having a steady place to shower. Go where it's warm in the winter if you're able. AirB&B when you need a week or two break from "the life."
disadvantages of nomadic life: injury becomes much more serious and problematic. My dad and stepmum are travelling at the moment, except they had to stop for several months because she had a skiing accident and tore both of her ankle ligaments. Couldn't really get into their caravan since she couldn't walk, definitely couldn't travel because she had pt appointments, and had to stay with my grumpy grandfather for most of that time. Not something thats easy to plan for, and really ruined a good 4 months for them.
Maybe buy a school bus and transform it. Put a shower and toilet in it. Powered by solar panels. Isolate the van for winter. plan your trips in advance, where you will park, contact city and local police etc BTW love the van and lifestyle, keep living the dream, I am saving for mine :)
A VW is cool, but I think you soon realise that space is far more important. You can wipe off half the issues listed with a bigger van. Proper shower, fixed bed, water recycling system, huge solar system, heater, more storage, room to stand and walk around etc etc
You forgot to mention the midnight tummy rumblings... my awesome hubby (then BF at the time), decided to have a humongous milk shake at burger joint in Santa Cruz (not a van friendly town). We had to give up a coveted discrete parking and head for the nearest ER/hospital "stat", btw a great place to find an open bathroom in a "pinch". ;-)
I thought this would be cheesy and suck but you raise some solid concerns and points! Been living out of my 94 Dodge Caravan for almost 7 years solid now!!! Not because I wanted to but because I had too! ;) I have gotten used to it now I suppose.
For me, this seems not much more comfortable than nonstop camping so I don't think this would ever be for me... and winters are too cold in my country. Especially the "no friends" part freaks me out. It's cool if you have a partner and it works out so that you don't suddenly break up and someone gets homeless, but even if you do have a stable relationship you are hanging out with the same person 24/7. Isn't this pretty much isolating yourself from any other deep connections to the outside world?
My wife and I set out to travel Australia 23 years ago in a 73 VW Kombi Camper.......all I can say is we saw everything twice......it was slow. I'd use aLand Rover and good swag if doing it all again tbh.
I lived in van for 6 months in mountains of Colorado while I worked at a hotel resort. Had full showers there so was cool. Lots of places to park out there too. Only sucked when winter came frozen at night had to move into an apartment lol.
in western europe there is a rule that you can stop everywhere if you are able to stop there to sleep if you are drunk so you just need to drink a few beers and you can sleep at every parkingloot
A lot of these problems are specific to your situation, understandably. But if you were to have a van with a high roof, or an RV, a lot of these problems would diminish. Best van to live in, by far is the Ford Transit with high roof, it’s stealthy, you can stand in it, very spacious. To make van life great, you have to make it livable by completely insulating the van. The idea of having a VW bus is great but realistically it’s not very ideal for full time van living.
Complete Expert's Guide to Living Off Grid out of a Vehicle: kombilife.com/van-life-book/
Kombi Life p
have a sprinter camper, self build, full time van life... shower is a Must! longer van more space. love your chanel. Jay uk.
Kombi Life ,I'm really surprised #2 wasn't actually going #2! lol. One of the hardest things of living in a vehicle. :) Hey, have you seen Jordan,the sailboat guy?
I think not having a bathroom is the worst. I lived in a cab of a pickup for a summer ( talk about cabin fever), number 2 sucks also. One time I was sleeping with the window down and a Cop used his night stick to tap me on the head to move along rather than on the door. That memory does stick out, but always feeling dirty and using public rest rooms or being told ( The restroom is for customers only ) is a huge downside when in populated areas.
I'll soon be able to make #2 problem a non- issue.
C Luek ,Please clarify! lol
Half a decade sounds so much longer than 5 years lol
I've had dirty laundry that long
Funny
True
I loved living in my van in winter ..so cozy ...I live in a truck conversion now so life is easy but I look back at those days with fondness ( 15 years on the road and loving it) 👁👍🙏❤️
live in a cheerokee... damn
u mistaken my damn for an australians version of damn. its an impressive but hesitant acceptance
Jerry Davi no hesitance...I wouldn't go back to a van now but they are Great for stealth ...there's no one jacket that fits all
versatec1
Regarding van life, in the California winters, I am able to get warm.. In the summer, not able to get cool.
Right? Insulate it well and your own body heat keeps it nice in there. You barely even need a coil heater much and not at all if you seal off the front cabin air so the giant windshield and windows heat up the air there all morning then use a vent and fan to heat up the rear.
I would think needing to use the toilet at 3 A.M. would be among the top 10.
Just use a bucket
@@FuncraftVideos exactly
I heard a few life hacks from a fellow van lifer. 1 is to get a gym pass. Not only can you stay in shape and stay active but you will also have showers. 2 is that coffee shops are your friend. Free wifi, food, coffee, bathroom. Great place to get work done
Cannon, you must watch Iamjake. Haha
I've seen a lot of van dwellers who get a nationwide gym membership to shower. Planet Fitness is 24hrs. Hobo Ahle has a video on how to make an awesome portable shower.
666 666 you can even buy Hot water showers for dirt cheap. A little pvc pipe. A shower curtain. Thwn you shower whenever you like.
These two are just sad and they want all to know how sad. That's sad. Ugh. Next!™
Lenny Prosado LMAO!!!
I appreciate the two of you being very ethical by sharing the truth of this lifestyle choice. You could have easily taken the opposite direction like a director and producer by just showing the glamorous portion of the lifestyle to the fullest extension and cleverly coming up with potential solutions for any problems that exist. You could have hired more actors to pose as friends that help out with all your problems, and made it seem great and problem-free. This ethical video had no misleading information. I'm sure you guys got a lot of good karma for this video. Thank you.
Thanks guys! So many people don't show this side and it's super helpful for those of us dreaming about van life. It helps me appreciate my brick and mortar house instead of wishing for something else.
+Leah Rich glad it helps.
i thinking finding a partner that would want to do this would be hard as well.
James Rice lol true
Hey, don't forget off of most every major highway (in the US) there are state maintained rest stops you are free to park and take a rest in. I don't know about sleeping there every night consistently. But you could get away with it once in a while.
As a note, i read since then however they are trying to change this, especially with RVs. :(
Keys879 heads up target only lets you 'park' your car untill 2am at most places ..then theyll kick ya out😖
Keys879 yes that's where my fiance and I used to stay and some places like truck stops have showers and fast food places..
Most rest stop are really nice, well maintained, plus mostly safe! Rest spots for the win. (have a close combat weapon just in case)
Very helpful. All ten reasons are why I don't want to live in a van. Thanks for helping me figuring this out.
I am happy that it works for you though!
I TRULY appreciate you making this video, as too many people think it's extremely easy, if you're living in a home on wheels. Honesty is always the best policy.
Completely agree! Wife dog and I just completed first 4 months van livin with a rather rash race home. 8k miles and 22 states at the end it seemed the bad outweighed the good, but in reality the bad became so overwhelming the good barely shined at all. The shit hitting the "van" was worst of all. South western US states reached 116F in the shade. Couldn't get out of the desert, never really recovered. The worst is when you are out you are prey! Exp to auto mechanics. If you want something done right you MUST DO IT YOURSELF! Thanks for the vid! We will still do it again!
This kind of honesty that makes me appreciate van lifer more.
I've just discovered this lifestyle, and I believe the best part about having all of these resources available is that it allows one to learn to find a middle ground, so to speak. Part of living a happy life is about finding balance. For me, living in a van full time wouldn't work. But setting up a van to camp in and go on weekend excursions with? HELL YAH!!! So that's what I'm setting out to do. :-) Thanks for sharing all of your experiences with us. -Safe travels.
Good... some honesty among all the flood of perfect vanlife youtube videos!
Really appreciate that!
you're welcome amigo
I have a feeling a lot of these problems are really '10 worst things living in a small old van'?! A slightly bigger, newer van that is reliable, with a shower would solve a lot of these problems. At least I hope it will :)
It really solves a lot of them. Planning for storage, easy conversion and powersupply also helps a lot.
Not much problems in a sprinter van, looks like the other comercial vehicles (except high tec digital nomad camping utilities on the roof) and has modern parts that are in stock everywhere. Its just one like "all the other standard trucks". 550w of amorphic solar really helps to run laptops, shower and a freezer/fans/microwave.
Fans also keep out moisture.
Outside the city or on campgrounds, you can use a attached tent as a shower and entry tent to keep out bugs and dirt. And it gets cleaned every morning with the shower.
Im using it only for month long projects or holidays, but its MUCH better suited as a fulltime vehicle than a small vw that was intended for weekend getaways.
But even some students that stay in them next to some universities ive visited dont have much problems. Shower at gym, wifi and cooking from the cafeteria.
Eat Sleep Van yeah Definitely. in a sprinter or Crafter type van with more room that you can stand up in makes a huge difference. I've been living the "van life" for over a year now in a swb transporter t5 and if I don't shower at the gym, I can fill my sink with warm soap water, wash myself off with a washcloth, and I don't smell like a hippy Gypsy. I'm going to upgrade to a Crafter van lwb soon and make a proper set up but I won't be installing a shower because they waste water. I can wash myself sufficiently well with 1.5 ltrs of water. try doing that in a shower!
I must say: an underpowered, overworked, air-cooled, carbureted, 50-year-old four-cylinder is most decidedly NOT the powerplant I'd select to propel my entire life. Pushing your van, yourself, and everything you own up hills and mountains, down steep declines, through snow and rain and 100-plus-degree heat, and along the Interstate at 70mph is gonna call for more horsepower and better reliability than what Germany fielded as an economy export in the 1960s.
PlaneandSimple And no a/c either.
Eat Sleep Van or they live in the van too much. The van is for sleeping ,get out do things ,stay busy
Great stories and insights into van life. I might say though I think half of those problems would be fixed with changes to the kind of van you convert and how it's set up and built inside. I.E. condensation prob would be fixed with good insulation and a venting/air-flow, winter cold is managable if you seal off the front driver cabin from the rear with insulation completely dividing it, turning the front into a small greenhouse which heats the air up rapidly, adn then just use a tiny fan/vent combo somewhere to then heat up the rear of the cabin in the morning to ease that cold bite. Also, the shuffle thing can be avoided if you arrange everything so it's always out. I personally chose to not have a bed/sofa conversion type set up. I'm fine with just a bed and a couple cushions I can use as a back rest.
+coyotegene86 good tips thanks for sharing.
I'm at number 8 - living in a 1971 bus in Berkeley - she needs work done to get her back on the road, but the income stream has been nil. After 35 years of van life, my favorite times were when I was younger - everything was cheaper, VW mechanics were more plentiful, and people weren't as uptight about it. I spent a lot of my days living around the Central Coast of California. I still love it and would love to be on the move this summer.
kimba People are uptight because gentrification has replaced your former middle class neighbors with yuppies, and they resent being gouged for housing, while seeing an example of someone (you) showing them that other viable options exist. It's as if they paid full price, then saw someone with a coupon... carnal jealousy and nothing more.
Luckily I am nestled onto a block of lovely open-minded people who have accepted me (for the time being) as "their person" which, I'm sure, means "their eccentric". I'm always surprised when someone from the neighborhood stops by and tells me a VW story from their past, or when younger people walk by and take selfies with her. There are some good things that can happen with Number 8, it just sucks being financially stuck.
I'm not sure that's quite right. I think that more people are worried about the damned tweekers living in their vehicles that bring crime and problems. I have no problem with people who want to live off grid or on the fringes for a life purpose. Tweekers suck!
Oh yes, the tweekers. I ran into a pack of them last summer, I won't say where. I was on a road trip, in a different car. I felt compassion and empathy for them while at the same time wanting to punch their lights out as they were desecrating sacred space while thinking what they were doing was cool. It was like being in a scene from a dystopian sci-fi film. Now that I think of it, we have our own brand of tweekers here, along with the mentally ill, that live in vans, but they are mostly campers in the city parks. I think that's why my neighbors like having me around, because just by having my presence there, they don't park on our street.
I was once using a restroom at a marina here back when the pod was running and while I was brushing my teeth this woman came in and she hesitated and looked at me and then went on to wash her hands. I lightly explained that I was using the restroom to wash up because I live in my van and it was getting close to bed time. Her jaw dropped and I could see the gears turning in her head. After a moment she said, " Wow, you don't look homeless - and you have really good teeth!" I have so many stories like this from the last few years. It never used to be like that - people never used to make assumptions like that.
It amazes me how this couple have so little yet they manage to create their own happiness 💘
I can't believe your list doesn't contain the problem of going to the bathroom when you have no loo on board. I'm less worried about taking a shower every day than I am about needing a toilet several times a day...
you use the bathroom outside like when you're camping. if you have to poop you dig a hole and do you business and cover it up with the dirt. if you're in a more developed area then there are lots of bathrooms in business and parks.. etc.. it's not that hard
My #1 complaint after only just beginning van life...BEING COLD! My van isn't built up yet but I wanted to get on the road. I didn't think I'd wake up to 3" of snow at Yellowstone in JUNE for God's sake, but that's exactly what happened. Nearly froze! My 2# gripe is somewhat connected to the first, once it warmed up I nearly cooked inside the van and if I went outside where it was nice I got ate up by bugs. I am working on fixing these issues! Great video btw! ;-)
Well 44JesusIsLord44 the issue for me was that there was a winter storm that hit Yellowstone like a lion and once it passed the sun was bearing down and I had no tree cover at my campsite. Had I known about the approaching storm I could have put off my trip for a couple days and had I known about the heat of Yellowstone's sun in June I could have picked a campsite with trees. For my long term journeying I WILL keep your advice in mind...north in the summer, south in the winter! Thank you!
There are top notch bug sprays now that work 100%. Google is your friend. Safe for your skin and insides? I don't know but expect to find out in 10yrs or so.
If you two are ever in the Dallas Texas neck of the woods, come camp in my gated driveway and connect to my wifi. We are south of downtown in a beautifully tree 🌲 covered part of town, near a great state park! I'm serious, all of your commenters are my witnesses!!!
Love it. Very helpful. I've been traveling solo RTW for two years...and now I'm heading home to tackle life in a van. This ebook is perfect timing. Can't wait to read it!
+Gail Jessen we're sure it will be a great read for you. What fantastic timing.
Gail Jessen don't do it!
"Gall darn hippie gypsies!!"😂😂 yall are the cuutest couple! Thnx for your openness and realness!✌💗
That's great that you guys actually did a cons video about van life. So, others can plan ahead before living the life.
What about personal safety? Did anyone tried to break in and steal anything or even just hazard for no good reason..? Thank you for sharing the 'not so dandy side' of living in a van, its really important and I appreciate it!
ua-cam.com/video/BgauizpMk58/v-deo.html
waking up in the middle of the night and needing to leave an emergency shit. Also getting sick can be miserable
Wow. Informative AND entertaining. Well done. Happy trails to you!
I watched a video about a dude that turned a work van into a tiny room with a bed so he could skate all over, and now I am getting recommendations for people that live in vans telling you that it sucks. Thanks UA-cam. I wasn't considering ever living in a van, but good looking out.
Great video and it's good you are telling the truth warts and all.
Finally some of the issues I also face. The knock, mechanical failures and sleeping places are the worst. It's not that glamorous, but sure has it's perks.
Delightful video! You two make the negatives sound so much easier to deal with.
I don't know wether I want the van life or I want to leave my life
Thanks . You both reminded me why I bought a 3 bedroom house ( mobile home ). I have renters. That helps a lot. It's called van dwelling for a reason. You dwell on the things you don't have. I love living in one place. I lived in a travel trailer over ten years. I had to move it , filling the water tank ect. It was just a lot of work and a pain. I have slept in my car before too, funnnnn. I have 3 vans but I don't live in them. I hope the best for you. Freedom is what you make it. I don't enjoy hunting around for stuff, water ,toilet, ice, asking my friends to help me. At the library all day because it's to hot or cold out. Thanks again.
My husband and I are planning to do this soon, glad he is a auto mechanic!
New zealand has millions of free camp sites, its freedom camping. You just need to be self contained (get a cert) to do so. No major
I just spent a few months on the road living out of my truck, tent, and the occasional cheap motel. It did suck when rainy weather stuck around for a few days. I have a membership to 24 Hour Fitness so I showered there, plus if I spent a lot of time driving, it was a welcome break to get in a workout.
On the plus side, I went from San Diego up to Vancouver BC and back. It was great!
Great video guys.
Oh!
You are breaking the dream!
I'm a dreamer and need to be puted in the reality as you're doing.
Thank you for sharing!
Thanks for your link. A tip I've installed a Camco Wave 3 catalytic heater behind my passenger seat. Keeps me warm to 20F and snow. A water absorbing fiber or 2 is required!
That was good😃 We live n a tiny house but we love our camper van too. I think your best tip in this video is planning stays outside the van. I would say, everyone may not be able to afford paying rent for an entire season but maybe a weekend at family or friends apartment could be fun, an opportunity to reconnect as well as not too expensive.
Such a good video guys. A lot of people have this romantic view of what Van Life or what a life of constant travel is like.
One of the things that really got to me on my trip across Australia in our Kombi, was the heat and the flies. SO MANY FLIES. And there is no escape from them as it so hot, you always have your windows down, so they just get in.
I have had the "Oh your a Hippy" thing so many times while I have been "Van Lifing" in my kombi. I got told to get a job a few times, stop bludging on the dole. I couldn't bring myself to explain to them that I was driving from Perth to Hobart, to start my training for my job with the Australian Antarctic Division.
Always love watching your videos.
One Life, One Search,
Peace Out,
Shane
+Tattered Passport thanks for sharing Shane. We're not looking forward to WA's flies. Sound horrific.
Does that mean you guys are coming to WA? Bring your fly nets LOL.
I lived in a van for 3-6 months while working in an office 9-5 .. I had to find a different place to park and sleep every night as I was not in a "van friendly" area.. and it bloody sucked.. the whole experience was horrible.
living in a van is awesome if you don't have to work... but trying to balance it with work is not fun.
yeah Josh, I can imagine that would be one of the worst situation to be a vanlifer - the weekends much have been fun though?
When I lived in a ford ranger pickup truck (single cab), I stayed at a truck stop. Nobody bothered me. Sometimes dudes wanted to wash my hubcaps for a dollar. Other than the occasional vagrant dude, the truck stop people were more than happy that I was buying stuff on a daily basis.
I did van life and it was one of the worse decisions of my life. My respect to those that can do it has now only grown. Props
I´m so in love with this channel :) It´s great what you do and what you share on here :D Thank you for keeping up such amazing content, it must be a lot of work.
#11 - Being a Nomad in a Van for 20 years, suddenly realizing, you'd be 2/3 of the way to pay off your mortgage and being vested in a pension. I was an Artist for 10 years and at the age of 30, I realized I couldn't retire on Social Security so I changed jobs. This allowed me to retire at 60 debt free. My house is paid off and I own all of my cars.
nallen100 the average is 80 years...
nallen100 maybe 65 if you have hiv, diabetes and never exercise.
nallen100 that's purely genetic. Diet can have some influence but not much.
I appreciate the honesty. I love to shower; sometimes twice a day in the summer, and can't imagine not being able to do it when I wanted.
imagine being able to move your house to the lake or the mountains when it gets hot!
Great list ya'll...For me though I think the number one thing that sucks about van life is money. Having an income is a must...if you dont this lifestyle is hell.
Glad you mentioned challenge of winter Van Life. I figure I'll find a place indoors for the winter
Unless of course if you live in a van with all the mod cons have you been to the caravan shows have a look at the real rv"s.I would work hard for a year or two buy a real RV and then start the van life.
Ray Sater yeah most of these problems can be solved with a bit more initial coin.
It doesn't even take more coin, look at what they are rolling in! I could pick up a 24-30ft clean RV for the cost of their VW, I'd perch like a king and still have cash left over.
Props to you guys! I could never live full time in a van. However, it'd be awesome to have a fully-equipped van for long vacations/roadtrips!
Just subbed to you-we are looking at going on the road with the family in a house bus of sorts-so it's refreshing to see the other side of travel life! Thanks looking forward to your other videos and I can't wait to start our vlog bus family life!
Thanks for sharing your guys knowledge, I really appreciate it. I'm about to live in my tiny Acura RSX until I drive across the country to AZ to buy a decent van. I will check out your book also, I will need things to read in my downtime :)
Suggestions for a few issues. Modern van with head room. Standing up would help a lot. Kitchen area and bed area always available with electric panels and even possibly a hot water heater on demand. Very small wood stove.
I lived in an SUV for 18 months several years ago. While the things you mentioned are valid, there was a solution to one of them. I live in TEXAS. Winter is the best time to live in your car here. During the summer it can be much too hot to sleep. During the winter, it's good to have a sleeping bag rated to 20 below zero. I slept like a baby.
Thank you for the honesty... For me I plan on boondocking in the wilderness but cause that's what calls to me... And avoid the city as much as possible. But I know I'll have to go there periodically, I'm trying to out together the positives and negatives you don't often hear of the negatives.
just saw this, love you guys and your sense of humor. :) thanks for the warnings, will try anyway.
as far as # 10, in the winter travel in the South, summer ,travel up North. Spring and fall....
that's what I thought too
Refreshing, interesting, authentic - subscribed!
owner of stripped Kombi...custom build best as a young teacher of wood working ..well in in college.... Great advice decades later....thanks
I ordered the book and an pleased with it. Its a good way to get all their experience without having to make hundreds of mistakes on our own (and we are about to move into our van). Thanks!
Thank you so much for your kind words, we're stoke that you like the book. If you have 30 seconds, please leave a review on our site so others can benefit from these words. kombilife.com/product/van-dwelling-ebook-guide/#reviews
Spot on.
The "knock" is my biggest fear, although I only had it happen twice so far.
it doesn't happen a lot to be fair
I have no want or need to do this but I find the lifestyle interesting. This video was the first I have seen from you two and it was really well done. The other channels I have seen seem more thrown together. Subbed.
Thanks for the great video guys! Good Luck!
you should try watching our series, you'd like it. ua-cam.com/video/IeJp7T_oOgQ/v-deo.html&ab_channel=KombiLife
Thanks for showing both sides of the story. You're right. 99.9% of these videos only glamorize it and we all know that nothing is always fun. I think another problem with this lifestyle is eventually most people will want to have kids and live in a house and inflation just keeps making homes more expensive. so it's good to get a home as soon as possible and then figure out a way to travel on the side, when the weather is good! It is possible with some budgeting and patience. I suggest all young folks read "Rich Dad Poor Dad" and "The Richest Man in Babylon". Or just look up the audio books on UA-cam. Will change your life.
"Weeks without a proper shower..."
Here in the States we have national gym chains. About $20 a month for unlimited hot showers, and a work out, and there is usually at least 20 in every state. For example, my gym has 177 locations in Florida alone.
Cheap, easy way to stay clean. 😁
Also, need a place to sleep for a night? Walmart parking lots allow for truckers and travellers to sleep, for free, no hastle.
What a great and honest video! I have to check out your book, sound very good!!! 👍🏼
The van life Shuffle! Made me literally laugh out loud! Been living that van Life for almost 3 months now. I feel like everyday I move everything and put it in a different spot. Nice because it gets a little bit more efficient every time it seems
+Amber Harrison ha ha you know it Amber
Awesome info....I've done one 3 months stretch, but I am getting ready to go full time as soon as my Camper is out of the shop and ready to go
+VagabonDaze good luck mate
Thanks, Guy's much appreciated....it's been a 4yr journey to decided to finally just go for it!
@kombilife, I just like y'all... You talk about real stuff. I lived in my car while/whilst (?) on Dead tour in the '90's and I can't wait to get back to the nomadic life. That being said, it ain't for everyone. I have both gained and lost friends over these facets of life on the continual move. Really great video... Maybe I'll see you at the jubilee...
Van Life... Holy Hell! between 1985 and 1995 when i was living in a Dodge Extended Maxi Van, Chasing the Grateful Dead across the country they called me a "Vagrant" -so its van life now? wow. I was either at Rainbow, on the Lot at the shows. OR... seeking #2 from your list. LOL never again. ten years was enough. wow.
Glad you've made this video! I am guessing you have heard of the story of over here in Australia about vanlife on the program called the link (hopefully you can see it on ABC iview or see transcript at ABC Australia), where videos were show of you but weren't named directly...
Either way Great response!
+Ivano Cascone yes we saw the video where they used our
Footage without asking or crediting us.
Disguising!
You might want to consider sending a complaint and see where it goes
www.acma.gov.au/Industry/Broadcast/Television/TV-content-regulation/commercial-television-code-of-practice-tv-content-regulation-i-acma
Public swimming pools are the answer to the showering problem, you get the exercise and the free bath of the swim and then a nice hot shower in the changing room... And most large towns have a laundrette to wash clothes so no real excuse to stink.
I learned pretty much all one needs to know about "living on the road" back in '69/'70-ish at 9-10 years old. Our family camped in a "nimrod seventy" POP UP Trailer b-hind a '66 2door Ford Galaxie 500. Did I mention a family of 5 ??
Camper sleeps 7 max. It was the sanity saver in conjunction with "KOA Kampgrounds" all the way across AMERICA (Boston, MA to ANAHEIM, CA -Disneyland). I HIGHLY recommend y'all locate a popup or hardside liftup that has a mini-bath. That will solve 75-80% of your frustrations. That, and don't rely quite sobmuch on FREE overnites. Campgrounds are much less expensive than hotels, even w/utility hookups. Y'all need to do some more research to locate Items that you can use for the basics. I notice that y'all didn't think thru the toilet facilitation issue too well. You never mentioned it at least. Portapotties (fold seat w/bags)/ "bumperdumpers" similar that clamp to the bumper.
Check camping supply stores or hunting suppliers for nifty cool stuff you will definetly need.
Good luck in your continuing sage!! 😉😆
Alaska told me she really loves living in a van. She never wants to be in a backyard. NEVER EVER! 😘🐶
Nicely done. Challenges like the ones you describe need some humor, otherwise they erode the fun times!
Amen to all of these, we've been through all of it, but ready to go again. :D
I love the video editing!
thanks - it's all Leah!
You Guys are funny :) I would love to travel with guys like you. I also appreciate your honesty. Greetings from Germany.
Number one can be avoided depending on the van you have. Some have showers in them, and decent ones too!
When you mentioned " burned out"... I immediately thought " that would be the first thing on my list"...
Get a gym membership to take showers in, try and sleep in the suburbs ideally in a hotel parking lot or strip map bar lol, always always always choose digital nomad over traditional work (I telework with a known tech company), meetup.com is your friend :), build a heater into the van, and constantly be educating yourself so you can come back better then you left/ not get bored (certifications, online college, etc).
Many of the things on their list can be easily avoided. A gym membership helps for having a steady place to shower. Go where it's warm in the winter if you're able. AirB&B when you need a week or two break from "the life."
for all of these reasons I'm going to stay a lurker..but very good realistic info... life is about choices.
disadvantages of nomadic life: injury becomes much more serious and problematic. My dad and stepmum are travelling at the moment, except they had to stop for several months because she had a skiing accident and tore both of her ankle ligaments. Couldn't really get into their caravan since she couldn't walk, definitely couldn't travel because she had pt appointments, and had to stay with my grumpy grandfather for most of that time. Not something thats easy to plan for, and really ruined a good 4 months for them.
Maybe buy a school bus and transform it. Put a shower and toilet in it. Powered by solar panels. Isolate the van for winter. plan your trips in advance, where you will park, contact city and local police etc
BTW love the van and lifestyle, keep living the dream, I am saving for mine :)
A VW is cool, but I think you soon realise that space is far more important. You can wipe off half the issues listed with a bigger van. Proper shower, fixed bed, water recycling system, huge solar system, heater, more storage, room to stand and walk around etc etc
You forgot to mention the midnight tummy rumblings... my awesome hubby (then BF at the time), decided to have a humongous milk shake at burger joint in Santa Cruz (not a van friendly town). We had to give up a coveted discrete parking and head for the nearest ER/hospital "stat", btw a great place to find an open bathroom in a "pinch".
;-)
Amazing production & awesome ending 👍👍😎
I thought this would be cheesy and suck but you raise some solid concerns and points! Been living out of my 94 Dodge Caravan for almost 7 years solid now!!! Not because I wanted to but because I had too! ;) I have gotten used to it now I suppose.
Stumbled across this. I didn't know "van life" was a thing!
humidity can be beaten by having a small woodstove.
Thanks guys, Good stuff as always.
I've lived in a truck for the last 30yrs I love it, I wana convert my van but it's more like a toy box
Rebel with a Cause hey Rebel !
Rebel with a Cause Yea, hey!!!
Linda Lemmons Hey to you too, Linda
Rhonda Weber lol well hey there ! Wow nice to see ya ..I have another friend from Google above here too ..great minds !!
For me, this seems not much more comfortable than nonstop camping so I don't think this would ever be for me... and winters are too cold in my country.
Especially the "no friends" part freaks me out. It's cool if you have a partner and it works out so that you don't suddenly break up and someone gets homeless, but even if you do have a stable relationship you are hanging out with the same person 24/7. Isn't this pretty much isolating yourself from any other deep connections to the outside world?
My wife and I set out to travel Australia 23 years ago in a 73 VW Kombi Camper.......all I can say is we saw everything twice......it was slow. I'd use aLand Rover and good swag if doing it all again tbh.
I lived in van for 6 months in mountains of Colorado while I worked at a hotel resort. Had full showers there so was cool. Lots of places to park out there too. Only sucked when winter came frozen at night had to move into an apartment lol.
move to Mexico - it's cheaper
in western europe there is a rule that you can stop everywhere if you are able to stop there to sleep if you are drunk so you just need to drink a few beers and you can sleep at every parkingloot
lack of head room!
****censored*** :o)
Unless your short
No matters, van life is awesome lol I like you guys.
A lot of these problems are specific to your situation, understandably. But if you were to have a van with a high roof, or an RV, a lot of these problems would diminish. Best van to live in, by far is the Ford Transit with high roof, it’s stealthy, you can stand in it, very spacious. To make van life great, you have to make it livable by completely insulating the van. The idea of having a VW bus is great but realistically it’s not very ideal for full time van living.