I'd like to start a mobile shower with several showers in it, clean towels, and hotel size soaps and travel to different areas on a permanent schedule, for a nominal price to cover gas and costs (not looking to get rich) so homeless or anyone else can have a safe place to shower without judgement. I just don't have the funds or health to do it. If I had the funds though, maybe I could find like-minded people to help me.
I am surprised at how many sticks and bricks people make the assumption that vanlife means homeless. I recently went to on a trip with a friend in her car she lives in a house so there were no clues that I live in a van part of the year. We stopped to get gas and noticed signs all over that the homeless were not welcome. I was denied access to the rest rooms from both the gas station and the attached fast food because they didn't give access to them because of "homeless and transients" we had out of state plates. Our world is very unforgiving to people who live "different" and from what they deem correct way to do things.
I'd keep my vanlife lifestyle undisclosed to service providers (insurance companies, gyms, and even workplaces), not because I'm paranoid about it but because some people who lack common sense might become a problem to my lifestyle.
Believe it or not I had a co-worker tell some people at work that they lived in the van they ended up firing that person a month later because he called in sick and showed up late once their reasoning to the group not to that person but to the group was that they had no excuse not to come in they don't have a house it was at that point I realized I will never tell anyone that I work with that I live in my SUV they just think I like to Camp a lot😂😂
@@arieakaarto Agreed! Besides it isn't anyones business. One must always be careful who they trust when it comes to our personal life regardless of what it is.
Great advice--basically vanners need to fly below the radar. I live on a ferry served island east of Vancouver Is. Public works moved my road inland from the water's edge a few years ago, leaving a 20 foot wide, by maybe 45 foot long shoulder on the water side of the road. Periodically vans would park there overnight; No one in my neighborhood cared. Then someone put the spot on iOverlander--suddenly there'd be 6 or more vans a night parked there, partying, playing their tunes, setting out the BBQ grills, leaving trash behind, etc. The neighborhood got fed up. The county put up a "no overnight camping sign." That helped, but there were some violators. Now there's a NO PARKING ANYTIME" sign. So what was a really nice spot for the occasional vanner, is gone. Generally, people don't make a bunch of rules unless there's a problem, so as you say, don't become a problem and ruin it for others.
It's unfortunate that society can't see alternative living as a normal. But if flying under the radar makes life easier than do that. Don't announce what you are doing be respectful like Chrome said, if people workout on their lunch break needs shower. Look at going to to the gym late at night to shower.
What happens OUTSIDE THE GYM DOOR is NO ONES BUSSNESS. You pay your dues to have the right to exercise and shower off afterward. It matters not whether you live in a house ,condo, trailer park, hotel ,RV or a Van or car. You PAID FOR A SERVICE and THAT IS ALL THAT THEY NEED TOO KNOW. CHEERS AND SAFE TRAVELS Steve h.
re: bathing...I live in a studio apt. in NYC and on rare occasions when the heat and hot water went off, I'd heat up my water for a shower in my microwave and fill 3 one liter seltzer bottles....step into the shower, use one to get wet, lather up and scrub, and one to two bottles to rinse off. It made me more conscious of the preciousness of availability of water taken for granted, and how much we waste.
The best thing to do essentially in this society an generation nowadays is keep your business to yourself because there's always someone that what's to ruin your day or what your doing they don't need to know your business
Yeah, my personal life is no one's business. I tell people that I like to fish/camp A LOT so if they should happen to see stuff in my SUV, there's not A lot of questions. I'm a strong believer in keeping my personal life and work life SEPARATE! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
My gym membership app shows how busy the gym is at any particular time so I always make sure to go in the "off" hours. However, having said that, it's hard to understand how any gym would turn down a paying membership just because someone wants to take a shower! After all it's YOUR membership to use as you need to add long as you're polite and courteous. I feel bad for that van dweller!!
Quite frankly I've had gym memberships for years and use their showers even though I live in a home at this point and plan to in the future have a gym membership and take showers there instead of at my dry cabin. Seriously if they don't want people showering don't put in showers.
I used to pay for a couple of gym membership, (LA Fitness, Planet, and YMCA, but I found it inconvenient when traveling because so many times, even with 3 memberships, the gym wasn't in the town I was in at the time. For $300 I added a simple 8 gallon Watersport tank on my roof rack and now can take a shower anytime for FREE.
Always remember there are new folks subscribing to the channel all the time and we can't expect them to go back and review EVERYTHING you've presented. I think it's OK to occasionally revisit the basics.
On Joseph's last video he was saying how he watched Chrome tell how to find parking to sleep over night ,how to get mail, and how to shower. He said Chrome answered lots of his unasked questions.
Since she left the cat out of the bag, instead of keeping the info to herself, all she'd have to do, to meet their stipulation, is hop on the treadmill or exercise bike for five min and then head to the shower. They apparently did not specify a time length for a "workout".
I was up front with the manager at my gym when I started going there. I have a gym membership through my medical plan. It’s a smaller gym. I’m not constantly in there using the shower. I’ve been treated with respect.
When traveling my shower line broke on my coach. They couldn't repair it because they had to order the part. So I went and showered at the gym. There was a van dweller that took a half hour in the shower. The lady behind me said I hope you don't need a half hour shower to scrub the dirt off you also. I just said no my shower broke and I wanted to shower like I do everyday. But you can go ahead of me if you like.
I love that you said how many Rec centers charge minimal or even nothing. Just be kind, people. If someone is responsible and respectable, what does it hurt to help a body out?
When I travel and freedom camp which is often, I dont use wet wipes as they are a pollutant. I have some cloths dedicated for body washes and I use them. Wash them clean afterwards and dry them out for re-use at another time. About every three days I will cruise into a campground to refresh my chillibin and ice up my icepacks , have a lovely shower or two and clean out my van. But I understand totally you guys that are vanlifers in such a vast land as Canada and USA needing to have a low cost option to shower and refresh supplies and van.
As part time travellers and part time off grid cabin dwellers, we’ve gotten creative with staying clean! We’ve never gotten gym memberships, but we have used many rec centre showers! Our cabin is in the Yukon and is completely off grid. We haul our water from a lake. In the winter when the lake freezes over, we treat ourselves to bi-weekly trips into Watson Lake, YT and go to the rec centre there for hot showers and a sauna! Delightful!!! So, if you are ever enroute along the Alaska Highway, stop in Watson Lake for a shower!! They are few and far between in our part of Canada!
Oh and my friend said her elderly mom uses portable washclothes... basically they have soap but don't need water. Look into the elderly adult products too.
A few years ago before I ever heard of van life, I was at my Anytime Fitness and someone was washing their dishes in the shower. They had a full tub of them. It was a gym where the shower was in the bathroom/dressing area and it prevented me from having a place to put my things to change for an exercise class. I thought it so odd; like I said, I hadn’t heard of van life at that time.
Dishes and bath/shower rooms don't mix. It seems dirty/unsanitary and unnecessary when dishes can be washe inside a van. Water jugs are in grocery stores to use for dishes etc.
Absolutely right about going to "boutique coffee shops" on occasion. Craft and product quality go up a few notches, and flavor often is another whole world of goodness!
In this lifestyle I think it’s generally best just to keep your mouth shut. Also if people would just be aware of other people these situations wouldn’t happen. Be safe y’all and wear shower shoes.🤟🏿😎
It's different in Southern California. Suggestion. Find out when the gym has the fewest people and go then for your shower. I take a "navy" shower -. Get wet - water off. Then water back on to rinse off. Don't sit there luxuriating in the steamy stall for half an hour. The gym is paying your water and water-heating bill. And work out once in a while. You may find it beneficial.
@@SeaC-ko1mp yeah but some people overdo it. 20-30 min hot showers ... Not necessary and very wasteful. I think the point is just to be considerate of other people.
@@JudiVentress Yes, but rest assured they have calculated the cost of occasional people doing that into their membership fees. It's called "overhead," which every single business has, and any business that isn't tracking their expenses and adjusting for changes from time to time by increasing membership fees as necessary simply isn't going to stay in business for long. They also know that plenty of people who come in to work out *never* shower there - not to mention the high number of people who never even show up at all - so it all evens out in the end.
I like your recent videos on van basics! I'm in training for van life not taking a shower every day, lol. Coffee is a joy I will take with me on the road. Nice gym with private shower room, wow. Planet Fitness gets a lot of monthly biz/memberships in US from van lifers so they would do wrong to have such a crazy policy.
I don't have a gym membership as I am a part time RVer but I do find that gyms that are open 24 hours are a great place to park for the night as vehicles are coming and going at all hours and no one really notices that I am parked there all night.
So many people appreciate your videos and learn what they need to in order to gain confidence about living and/or traveling full time in a vehicle. Keep it up and thanks! 😊
It was shocking to see the cost of your gas. When you are in the Vancouver area, it would pay you to go to COSTCO in Bellingham to get a tank of gas. We see lots of Canadian shoppers every day.
FYI Edmonds community center has showers right in the main bathrooms in the public lobby of the rec center. When I checked a few months back I didn't even see that you had to pay!
When we moved to northern BC we lived in our travel trailer for 8 months and we needed a shower as the trailer was small. We bought a family pass at the rec center and just showed there.
Hey Chome, how you doing? using the gym, maintenance on your van, camping with friends, chillin with Emi, making a campfire, touring neighborhoods, etc. etc. I love ALL your videos, Chrome. Well, I'm not to keen on the electrical stuff, but that's okay. Take care and continue to enjoy your journey! A 77 y.o. fan and subscriber.
Exactly. I can picture someone (maybe her) just having a nice casual conversation with someone and it came out in passing, much like Chrome’s story. But this one has a different ending. Many things just depend on the person.
Had a chance to see your home parked in your usual spot in VI today. Always wanted to say hi to you each time I see. But something holding me off not to bother you! (Probably resting/filming! Awesome home you have 😍
Go ahead and say hello the next time you see him! Chrome never replies to anyone here, but he *loves* meeting his followers, and often mentions them, if not actually features them in later videos.
I’ve really enjoyed learning about finding parking and showers and the etiquette around these necessities. We are about to move into our ambulance conversion the end of the month, full-time and I’ve been a little stressed about these things. Thank you Chrome, this really helps. All the best to you. ❤😊
There are lots of issues with homeless using the gyms, washing clothes, etc.. Also gyms make $ from members not showing up. Plus, working out should be part of your routine!!
Chrome, I really appreciate the content of the last few vids. I like most of your content but the last few are helpful as I'm starting my carlife which I'm hoping can lead to me getting a van in the next few years
I got four more weeks at home before my husband and I and his cousin (he helps me drive) plus dogs take off on the coach for about three months of traveling. Got it all checked out. We are planning our route this week for things to see or enjoy. But I am a little bit nervous with all the crazy things happening out there.
Chrome thanks for the info it is useful for alot of people I live in a class c motor home but sometimes it is hard to get running water so the baby wipes do help big hugs to you and Cruz
Have enjoyed the channel for awhile. Appreciate all the tips. Retiring next year and will begin my van life journey and welcome all ur experiences. Thanks, be safe.
There is a need for a showers 🚿facility. It is time ⏲️ to start a showers 🚿 business, which would definitely help out the van dwelling community. Something to think 🤔 about.
Alot of the places I shower (state parks, campgrounds) have timers on their showers. Each shower has a 10 minute timer on the shower, and the water shuts off after 10 minutes. Easy peasy. :) One place in the desert drove me crazy. You had to push the button for each QUART of water. The problem was that you had to push that stinkin' button about 30 times before the water got warm enough to get IN the shower. The button was set for 10 seconds of water. I put a half gallon jug under the shower, and had to push the button twice to fill the 1/2 gallon jug. I HATED it. But I only take a 10 minute shower each morning here at home, so I can easily deal with a 10 minute time limit when I'm away from home.
One of my friend was working in Haiti for a humanitarian organization and they had 2 cups a day of water to wash, basically, it was just enough to wet a face cloth and go over the most important areas and maybe wet your hair a bit. Laundry was no more than once a week.
Trick to stop odor…get spray neosporin or triple antibiotic and occasionally you can use it on your armpits and other areas and it will almost instantly stop odor. Don’t do it too often but in emergency situations it will clear the smell completely.
I'm new in van life and being a youtube creator. Thank you Chrome for going back to the basics. Also, I joined Planet Fitness and told them I'm a van dweller. They were totally cool.
Hey Chrome. Its Robin and Troy.. turns out we just got an email that our membership was canceled. Comes after our tour video. Oh well.. is what it is.. and we only went in one at a time becouse our new puppy we have now. We go there in our car.. and swap.. never in the van. Who knows. Thanks for the video.
What do you do if you are a van dweller who is handicapped and wants a shower? Leave them cleaner than I find them! Love you and the channel!!! Cruz mostest!!! Chuck Knight. 👨🌾✝️
At 9:00 there is a coffee chain here in the states called Dutch Bros that all operate out of stands that are drive thru. There is only one that I know of that is not drive thru. But what they lack in space they make up for in great customer service!
Hmmmm..... Most gyms I've been in have locker room type facilities with multiple stalls??? But yes definitely be aware of others especially during busy times
Watching n learning! Very informative stuff. Much thanks. N yea not right to cancel membership cuz ur a van lifer! Maybe creating a data base sharing info about such places is important for van lifers. Communication helps others. Great job sharing d van life knowledge
End of Story. I walk in put my stuff up, walk up to a treadmill, turn it on, then take two steps, just because one would be too hard. Then get off and go shower. I worked out no one can cancel me and I have done my duty to honor the workout code. If that happens to be rest assured this is the concept I am using. So far no issues with Planet Fitness knock on wood.
It’s actually very common for gyms to have that written in contracts… at least where I’m from in the states.. I just wouldn’t mention it to anyone, if she didn’t bring it up they wouldn’t have every known.
This is why I like the Planet Fitness locations around Detroit because they have multiple showers in the locker room they also have changing stalls right across from the showers that you can leave your stuff and jump in the shower. Normally when I go I go late at night when not many people are there.
Now for a question. Those who do the van life. how do you deal with pets? Since a vehicle interior temp. can be extremes. How can having a pet in a van be healthy for the animal?
lol...just don't leave your pet in the van in extreme temps. Shop or whatever in the early cooler part of the day and then MOVE to somewhere else. Wheels on the home!! If someone has a fixed everyday type of job I don't know a single one who has a pet. People in houses will leave their dog alone all day. Healthy? No.
Chrome You have the best van life Channel out there, and sometimes going over these things again every so often, helps the newer van dwellers understand the situation and not make newbie mistakes.
I also have Anytime Fitness. I get my shower after 8 pm. Usually there is very few people in there if any. A hot shower at night helps me sleep better anyway..
On the van basics subject, maybe you could create a section/play list of all your basics/getting started you can reference when questions are asked... I am building my van now, downsizing from a monstrosity of a fifth wheel trailer so I can actually get where I really want to be and travel daily. I am researching everything I can I how different things will be but get stuck on everyone's current adventures 😂 having an easy place to look back on with an occasional update with the times would be really great to watch.
Someone should start a chain of Just Shower Only facilities since there is a growing need and want for them.
They do! You can go to a lot of truck stops but it can get pricy at 17 dollars.
I'd like to start a mobile shower with several showers in it, clean towels, and hotel size soaps and travel to different areas on a permanent schedule, for a nominal price to cover gas and costs (not looking to get rich) so homeless or anyone else can have a safe place to shower without judgement. I just don't have the funds or health to do it. If I had the funds though, maybe I could find like-minded people to help me.
@@rosemarie20 You might be able to get a grant from somewhere to help you start and run that. I think it's a wonderful idea.
@@wendyannh I agree.
That's a million dollar idea 💡
I am surprised at how many sticks and bricks people make the assumption that vanlife means homeless. I recently went to on a trip with a friend in her car she lives in a house so there were no clues that I live in a van part of the year. We stopped to get gas and noticed signs all over that the homeless were not welcome. I was denied access to the rest rooms from both the gas station and the attached fast food because they didn't give access to them because of "homeless and transients" we had out of state plates. Our world is very unforgiving to people who live "different" and from what they deem correct way to do things.
I'd keep my vanlife lifestyle undisclosed to service providers (insurance companies, gyms, and even workplaces), not because I'm paranoid about it but because some people who lack common sense might become a problem to my lifestyle.
Paranoia is reality on a finer scale...
That’s wisdom. Too big a gamble and it usually depends on the other person and their preconceived notions.
Lmao you are that important get over your self
Believe it or not I had a co-worker tell some people at work that they lived in the van they ended up firing that person a month later because he called in sick and showed up late once their reasoning to the group not to that person but to the group was that they had no excuse not to come in they don't have a house it was at that point I realized I will never tell anyone that I work with that I live in my SUV they just think I like to Camp a lot😂😂
@@arieakaarto Agreed! Besides it isn't anyones business. One must always be careful who they trust when it comes to our personal life regardless of what it is.
If they pay their gym dues, it's insane that this person is excluded from the gym.
,THAT PERSON NEEDS A LAWYER
Great advice--basically vanners need to fly below the radar. I live on a ferry served island east of Vancouver Is. Public works moved my road inland from the water's edge a few years ago, leaving a 20 foot wide, by maybe 45 foot long shoulder on the water side of the road. Periodically vans would park there overnight; No one in my neighborhood cared. Then someone put the spot on iOverlander--suddenly there'd be 6 or more vans a night parked there, partying, playing their tunes, setting out the BBQ grills, leaving trash behind, etc. The neighborhood got fed up. The county put up a "no overnight camping sign." That helped, but there were some violators. Now there's a NO PARKING ANYTIME" sign. So what was a really nice spot for the occasional vanner, is gone. Generally, people don't make a bunch of rules unless there's a problem, so as you say, don't become a problem and ruin it for others.
^5
It's unfortunate that society can't see alternative living as a normal.
But if flying under the radar makes life easier than do that.
Don't announce what you are doing be respectful like Chrome said, if people workout on their lunch break needs shower. Look at going to to the gym late at night to shower.
I'll never understand why people litter. I live on a beach in Ontario and every weekend people leave behind their picnic garbage.
@@goldenretriever6261 l know exactly what you mean. My parents used to say "Those low trash people think they have maids to pick up after them".
When a nice quiet place to park turns into party central, it becomes a problem for other vanners as well.
What happens OUTSIDE THE GYM DOOR is NO ONES BUSSNESS. You pay your dues to have the right to exercise and shower off afterward. It matters not whether you live in a house ,condo, trailer park, hotel ,RV or a Van or car. You PAID FOR A SERVICE and THAT IS ALL THAT THEY NEED TOO KNOW. CHEERS AND SAFE TRAVELS Steve h.
re: bathing...I live in a studio apt. in NYC and on rare occasions when the heat and hot water went off, I'd heat up my water for a shower in my microwave and fill 3 one liter seltzer bottles....step into the shower, use one to get wet, lather up and scrub, and one to two bottles to rinse off. It made me more conscious of the preciousness of availability of water taken for granted, and how much we waste.
The best thing to do essentially in this society an generation nowadays is keep your business to yourself because there's always someone that what's to ruin your day or what your doing they don't need to know your business
Wet wipes are nice, but a washcloth and a bowl of warm water can do the job without creating waste that will end up in a landfill.
Yeah, my personal life is no one's business. I tell people that I like to fish/camp A LOT so if they should happen to see stuff in my SUV, there's not A lot of questions. I'm a strong believer in keeping my personal life and work life SEPARATE! 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
My gym membership app shows how busy the gym is at any particular time so I always make sure to go in the "off" hours. However, having said that, it's hard to understand how any gym would turn down a paying membership just because someone wants to take a shower! After all it's YOUR membership to use as you need to add long as you're polite and courteous. I feel bad for that van dweller!!
Quite frankly I've had gym memberships for years and use their showers even though I live in a home at this point and plan to in the future have a gym membership and take showers there instead of at my dry cabin. Seriously if they don't want people showering don't put in showers.
This is totally absurd. Shame on that gym!
I used to pay for a couple of gym membership, (LA Fitness, Planet, and YMCA, but I found it inconvenient when traveling because so many times, even with 3 memberships, the gym wasn't in the town I was in at the time. For $300 I added a simple 8 gallon Watersport tank on my roof rack and now can take a shower anytime for FREE.
Always remember there are new folks subscribing to the channel all the time and we can't expect them to go back and review EVERYTHING you've presented. I think it's OK to occasionally revisit the basics.
On Joseph's last video he was saying how he watched Chrome tell how to find parking to sleep over night ,how to get mail, and how to shower. He said Chrome answered lots of his unasked questions.
Since she left the cat out of the bag, instead of keeping the info to herself, all she'd have to do, to meet their stipulation, is hop on the treadmill or exercise bike for five min and then head to the shower. They apparently did not specify a time length for a "workout".
I was up front with the manager at my gym when I started going there. I have a gym membership through my medical plan. It’s a smaller gym. I’m not constantly in there using the shower. I’ve been treated with respect.
When traveling my shower line broke on my coach. They couldn't repair it because they had to order the part. So I went and showered at the gym. There was a van dweller that took a half hour in the shower. The lady behind me said I hope you don't need a half hour shower to scrub the dirt off you also. I just said no my shower broke and I wanted to shower like I do everyday. But you can go ahead of me if you like.
I love that you said how many Rec centers charge minimal or even nothing. Just be kind, people. If someone is responsible and respectable, what does it hurt to help a body out?
This, Cass. It doesn't hurt to help people out.
You hit the nail on the head “respect” most people do but there will always be that one person.
Chrome In the summertime you can leave your baby wipes on the dash and it's like a hot wash cloth. give it a try if you haven't already.
Thanks for that tip 👍🏼
Even people who have been living in minivans or vans for years still need a refresher or different perspective sometimes. Chrome, keep'em coming, man.
What you mostly tell us is community courtesy. We have become so isolated in sticks and bricks, we forgot.
When I travel and freedom camp which is often, I dont use wet wipes as they are a pollutant.
I have some cloths dedicated for body washes and I use them. Wash them clean afterwards and dry them out for re-use at another time. About every three days I will cruise into a campground to refresh my chillibin and ice up my icepacks , have a lovely shower or two and clean out my van. But I understand totally you guys that are vanlifers in such a vast land as Canada and USA needing to have a low cost option to shower and refresh supplies and van.
I always go to the gym when it is not busy. Most of the time I workout but there are times when I only go there to shower.
As part time travellers and part time off grid cabin dwellers, we’ve gotten creative with staying clean! We’ve never gotten gym memberships, but we have used many rec centre showers! Our cabin is in the Yukon and is completely off grid. We haul our water from a lake. In the winter when the lake freezes over, we treat ourselves to bi-weekly trips into Watson Lake, YT and go to the rec centre there for hot showers and a sauna! Delightful!!! So, if you are ever enroute along the Alaska Highway, stop in Watson Lake for a shower!! They are few and far between in our part of Canada!
Oh and my friend said her elderly mom uses portable washclothes... basically they have soap but don't need water. Look into the elderly adult products too.
A few years ago before I ever heard of van life, I was at my Anytime Fitness and someone was washing their dishes in the shower. They had a full tub of them. It was a gym where the shower was in the bathroom/dressing area and it prevented me from having a place to put my things to change for an exercise class. I thought it so odd; like I said, I hadn’t heard of van life at that time.
Dishes and bath/shower rooms don't mix. It seems dirty/unsanitary and unnecessary when dishes can be washe inside a van. Water jugs are in grocery stores to use for dishes etc.
Ew
Reminds me of the Seinfeld episode where Kramer is making a salad while in the shower.
Absolutely right about going to "boutique coffee shops" on occasion. Craft and product quality go up a few notches, and flavor often is another whole world of goodness!
In this lifestyle I think it’s generally best just to keep your mouth shut. Also if people would just be aware of other people these situations wouldn’t happen. Be safe y’all and wear shower shoes.🤟🏿😎
Yes shower shoes it drives me crazy seeing him get into the shower with some flip flops lol
It's different in Southern California.
Suggestion. Find out when the gym has the fewest people and go then for your shower. I take a "navy" shower -. Get wet - water off. Then water back on to rinse off. Don't sit there luxuriating in the steamy stall for half an hour. The gym is paying your water and water-heating bill.
And work out once in a while. You may find it beneficial.
I think with the membership fees we DO pay for the hot water.
@@SeaC-ko1mp yeah but some people overdo it. 20-30 min hot showers ... Not necessary and very wasteful. I think the point is just to be considerate of other people.
@@JudiVentress Yes, but rest assured they have calculated the cost of occasional people doing that into their membership fees. It's called "overhead," which every single business has, and any business that isn't tracking their expenses and adjusting for changes from time to time by increasing membership fees as necessary simply isn't going to stay in business for long.
They also know that plenty of people who come in to work out *never* shower there - not to mention the high number of people who never even show up at all - so it all evens out in the end.
I’ve been living in my van now for 4 years. Your videos were a huge influence and inspiration for me to get started. Keep the great info coming 😊❤
I like your recent videos on van basics! I'm in training for van life not taking a shower every day, lol. Coffee is a joy I will take with me on the road. Nice gym with private shower room, wow. Planet Fitness gets a lot of monthly biz/memberships in US from van lifers so they would do wrong to have such a crazy policy.
This is my favorite channel. Your way of life is an inspiration Chrome!
When they asked if you had already received a coffee, I had a suspicion you'd end up with someone else's flavor of coffee.
I bought a some squeeze bottle bidets. One for washing dishes outside and the other for personal hygiene. Works in a pinch it you have a private spot.
I don't have a gym membership as I am a part time RVer but I do find that gyms that are open 24 hours are a great place to park for the night as vehicles are coming and going at all hours and no one really notices that I am parked there all night.
So many people appreciate your videos and learn what they need to in order to gain confidence about living and/or traveling full time in a vehicle. Keep it up and thanks! 😊
My tween shower is a 16 ounce Peppermint tea in a spritzer with a washcloth. No rinse required, or creams needed.
Whatever works and floats your boat!
No matter the content...the over riding take away from your vlogs..."You" are such a decent guy, always trying to help. Think "Kindness" is your MOTO.
It was shocking to see the cost of your gas. When you are in the Vancouver area, it would pay you to go to COSTCO in Bellingham to get a tank of gas. We see lots of Canadian shoppers every day.
Thanks Chrome. Always nice to be reminded of the details.
FYI Edmonds community center has showers right in the main bathrooms in the public lobby of the rec center.
When I checked a few months back I didn't even see that you had to pay!
2013 went there often
When we moved to northern BC we lived in our travel trailer for 8 months and we needed a shower as the trailer was small. We bought a family pass at the rec center and just showed there.
Hey Chome, how you doing? using the gym, maintenance on your van, camping with friends, chillin with Emi, making a campfire, touring neighborhoods, etc. etc. I love ALL your videos, Chrome. Well, I'm not to keen on the electrical stuff, but that's okay. Take care and continue to enjoy your journey! A 77 y.o. fan and subscriber.
Always willing to watch how to & advice videos. Thanx! And keep them coming
How did they know she lived in a van that’s the first mistake it’s nobody business where I live
Exactly. I can picture someone (maybe her) just having a nice casual conversation with someone and it came out in passing, much like Chrome’s story. But this one has a different ending. Many things just depend on the person.
Wet Wipes, Gym membership & Great Coffees are essential Chrome.....educational Vlog for other new VanLifers 💙🤩🇦🇺🌞
I don't understand how the gym could legally rescind her membership, saying she had to workout before she could use the shower.
Business that offer free showers would be a paradise for the homeless and a nightmare for the citizens..
$1.55 today April 17 per litre in Hamilton, Ontario. You all were not kidding about gas being so expensive out there 😎🇨🇦
Like the idea of refresher videos of practical vanlife
Had a chance to see your home parked in your usual spot in VI today. Always wanted to say hi to you each time I see. But something holding me off not to bother you! (Probably resting/filming! Awesome home you have 😍
Go ahead and say hello the next time you see him! Chrome never replies to anyone here, but he *loves* meeting his followers, and often mentions them, if not actually features them in later videos.
Bravo on your perspective of the gym situation ... 👍
Wise advice, it does need to be repeated.
I’ve really enjoyed learning about finding parking and showers and the etiquette around these necessities. We are about to move into our ambulance conversion the end of the month, full-time and I’ve been a little stressed about these things. Thank you Chrome, this really helps. All the best to you. ❤😊
There are lots of issues with homeless using the gyms, washing clothes, etc..
Also gyms make $ from members not showing up.
Plus, working out should be part of your routine!!
Chrome, I really appreciate the content of the last few vids. I like most of your content but the last few are helpful as I'm starting my carlife which I'm hoping can lead to me getting a van in the next few years
Yo I live in a SUV and post about it! Love your vids chrome
Finally you begin to understand that its an already broken society.- Congrats Chrome ! 🙂
I got four more weeks at home before my husband and I and his cousin (he helps me drive) plus dogs take off on the coach for about three months of traveling. Got it all checked out. We are planning our route this week for things to see or enjoy. But I am a little bit nervous with all the crazy things happening out there.
Chrome thanks for the info it is useful for alot of people I live in a class c motor home but sometimes it is hard to get running water so the baby wipes do help big hugs to you and Cruz
Have enjoyed the channel for awhile. Appreciate all the tips. Retiring next year and will begin my van life journey and welcome all ur experiences. Thanks, be safe.
Working out wth weights helps build endorphins and keeps you from getting depressed!! Its amazing!
Thank you for revisiting the basics 👌
Some campgrounds will let you shower for a couple of bucks. Usually the smaller ones.
That's their lost of profits. You are also right about holding up the shower
Chrome, what rust prevention treatment would you do to a new van? Thanks for posting.
There is a need for a showers 🚿facility. It is time ⏲️ to start a showers 🚿 business, which would definitely help out the van dwelling community. Something to think 🤔 about.
Showers/laundry/coffee shop 😁
Thank you for sharing all your tips with us. Stay safe
Alot of the places I shower (state parks, campgrounds) have timers on their showers. Each shower has a 10 minute timer on the shower, and the water shuts off after 10 minutes. Easy peasy. :) One place in the desert drove me crazy. You had to push the button for each QUART of water. The problem was that you had to push that stinkin' button about 30 times before the water got warm enough to get IN the shower. The button was set for 10 seconds of water. I put a half gallon jug under the shower, and had to push the button twice to fill the 1/2 gallon jug. I HATED it. But I only take a 10 minute shower each morning here at home, so I can easily deal with a 10 minute time limit when I'm away from home.
One of my friend was working in Haiti for a humanitarian organization and they had 2 cups a day of water to wash, basically, it was just enough to wet a face cloth and go over the most important areas and maybe wet your hair a bit. Laundry was no more than once a week.
Trick to stop odor…get spray neosporin or triple antibiotic and occasionally you can use it on your armpits and other areas and it will almost instantly stop odor. Don’t do it too often but in emergency situations it will clear the smell completely.
Ha ha. I was a manager at Tim Hortons for 25 years. I knew as soon as he passed you that coffee it was going to be wrong.
Just love these informative videos ❤ Thank you Chrome👍
I'm new in van life and being a youtube creator. Thank you Chrome for going back to the basics.
Also, I joined Planet Fitness and told them I'm a van dweller. They were totally cool.
I live real close to that Tim's you went to the worst one we have as you pulled in there I said he's going to regret that lol
Not sure about Canada because I’m in the usa but some of the Truckstops have showers for the truckers but I don’t see why anyone else can’t use them
Van lifers do use shower in truck stops but it isn’t cheap, between $15 to $20 per use.
@@33Jenesis that is true
Hey Chrome. Its Robin and Troy.. turns out we just got an email that our membership was canceled. Comes after our tour video. Oh well.. is what it is.. and we only went in one at a time becouse our new puppy we have now. We go there in our car.. and swap.. never in the van. Who knows. Thanks for the video.
What do you do if you are a van dweller who is handicapped and wants a shower? Leave them cleaner than I find them! Love you and the channel!!! Cruz mostest!!! Chuck Knight. 👨🌾✝️
I can't imagine having no wipes between showers! 😂
At 9:00 there is a coffee chain here in the states called Dutch Bros that all operate out of stands that are drive thru. There is only one that I know of that is not drive thru. But what they lack in space they make up for in great customer service!
Hmmmm..... Most gyms I've been in have locker room type facilities with multiple stalls??? But yes definitely be aware of others especially during busy times
Can you make a video about the absolute must haves for van life and the stuff that is more optional based on needs and space please
two things you never say 1 you live in your vehicle 2 your just here for a shower im in a wheel chair so not many people give me a hard time
Watching n learning! Very informative stuff. Much thanks. N yea not right to cancel membership cuz ur a van lifer! Maybe creating a data base sharing info about such places is important for van lifers. Communication helps others. Great job sharing d van life knowledge
End of Story. I walk in put my stuff up, walk up to a treadmill, turn it on, then take two steps, just because one would be too hard. Then get off and go shower. I worked out no one can cancel me and I have done my duty to honor the workout code. If that happens to be rest assured this is the concept I am using. So far no issues with Planet Fitness knock on wood.
in usa I pay $20 a month to my insurance and have a huge network of gyms all over USA I can use
It’s actually very common for gyms to have that written in contracts… at least where I’m from in the states.. I just wouldn’t mention it to anyone, if she didn’t bring it up they wouldn’t have every known.
Hey brother we have Anytime Fitness here in North Carolina where I live. So when you come here to visit!!
Really Enjoyed this one!
This is why I like the Planet Fitness locations around Detroit because they have multiple showers in the locker room they also have changing stalls right across from the showers that you can leave your stuff and jump in the shower. Normally when I go I go late at night when not many people are there.
Very informative!
Now for a question. Those who do the van life. how do you deal with pets? Since a vehicle interior temp. can be extremes. How can having a pet in a van be healthy for the animal?
lol...just don't leave your pet in the van in extreme temps. Shop or whatever in the early cooler part of the day and then MOVE to somewhere else. Wheels on the home!! If someone has a fixed everyday type of job I don't know a single one who has a pet. People in houses will leave their dog alone all day. Healthy? No.
Chrome
You have the best van life Channel out there, and sometimes going over these things again every so often, helps the newer van dwellers understand the situation and not make newbie mistakes.
I like the updates! You didn't mention the Jacool (sp) waterheater in this one!?
I also have Anytime Fitness. I get my shower after 8 pm. Usually there is very few people in there if any. A hot shower at night helps me sleep better anyway..
…and keeps your bedding cleaner longer.
And it helps if you have allergies because you wash away the pollen and also no pollen in your bed.😊
This is what i will be doing down here in NY we have Planet Fitness there actually only $25 a month
homeless are citizens too,
On the van basics subject, maybe you could create a section/play list of all your basics/getting started you can reference when questions are asked... I am building my van now, downsizing from a monstrosity of a fifth wheel trailer so I can actually get where I really want to be and travel daily. I am researching everything I can I how different things will be but get stuck on everyone's current adventures 😂 having an easy place to look back on with an occasional update with the times would be really great to watch.
There's a Dunkin' donut coffee shop in my town in Oklahoma that is almost the same size as the Tim Hortons you went to.
Really appreciate you revisiting these topics for those of us who havent transitioned into vehicle dweller mode yet. ❤
Im glad you enjoyed the ride