Have been watching quite a few van life videos lately. I'm 64, state pension in 3 years (I hope) will be taking a drop in income and unless I carry on working prob struggle living in a house. The idea of van life is becoming more appealing. Your video has just come up and caught my attention. Have subscribed and hope to follow your journey from now. Enjoyed the frank no nonsense approach.
Thank you for subscribing to my channel. I hope you can learn something from it especially as you're perhaps considering it yourself. Best of luck, Jim
I enjoyed your video. UA-cam takes a lot of perseverance in order to build up your community enough to begin receiving any financial benefits. One to two 10 minute vids per week is what it takes to build viewership. Find a way to subtly remind folks they need to play the advertising for you to make even a penny. Cheers from across the pond.
Yes, you're absolute right there - it's pennies. And I've been going less than 2 months - early days. I'll just see how it goes tbh. I've visited the USA (assuming it, but could be Canada...) half a dozen times, I really enjoyed it there. I've heard you can take motorhomes over from the UK on a container ship, but it costs an awful lot as you can imagine, but what an adventure it could be. Best wishes to you on your end. Jim
Good on ya , I've been full-time for 10 years now , and it's been very liberating and adventurous I highly recommend the lifestyle. I'm 58 too and I think what you're saying is you're all burnt out from decades of work ...ditto. When you get to our age time becomes more valuable than chasing money. Enjoy!
Looks like that generator inverter has been a great asset for you. Another option is using charging stations which can also often be used to also park up if the location is used infrequently at night.
Hi there, yes it certainly has been. It's a game changer - means I'm not going to campsites for power - because where I park I can use it in most of my park ups. Regards, Jim
Good luck to you. I have a small campervan (not living in it) and I wouldn’t dream of going to a campsite. Stopping in a field not my idea of fun . But each to his own. Great channel
Maybe you can do a review on the inverter generator & possibly a link to where you bought it on ebay + Are you going to do any european trips ? Happy travels 😃
Hi there, I just posted a video about servicing my inverter generator. I don't think the EBay seller I bought it from is still selling it tbh. But super easy to find it if you search for "Maxpeedingrods Inverter Generator MRX3500". EBay or Amazon and other places online no doubt. I'm planning on going to Ireland this year at least and from next year further afield. Best wishes, Jim
Love your relaxed way of delivering your dialogue . One day I hope to do what you are doing but and tied to the house . Want to make the most of using my Moho this year . Last year was first year and spent most of my time getting the van in shape . Despite it being new . Want to try this year doing more offgrid non campsite trips . You are dead right about solar generation . I had 560w put on roof , you don’t generate what people claim . Luckily I had twin b2b fitted so I can run the engine or drive to change up my leisure battery . Use my Ecoflow also to top up the Moho . Am assuming you use some lay-bys that are not next to road . Again you are right about the vans being comfortable for on man and a small dog . I don’t know how families manage it . Good luck . Thanks for your video and insights .
Hi Eddie, yes seems like you have similar thoughts to me. I've also got a B2B which is useful if you're low on power with a long'ish trip to do. I you really need to think about that beforehand tho. Best wishes, Jim
Hi your doing the right thing in life looking after number 1 which I found out later in life there's nobody coming to save you ,rant over 😂 been doing this van life for 7 months now I find it gets a bit naff in winter so can't wait for better weather to perk me up, sometimes it feels like you against the world with some people 😂 keep the vlogs going be good.
Hey Robbo (hopefully the name is right). Yes, look after yourself and if you do get some help it really is a bonus. Winter is the toughest time - no doubt about it. Thanks for the positive feedback and good luck to you on your end. Best wishes, Jim
Not trying to be one of those people but given the title i was thinking i was going to hear where you've been parking instead of using campsites. Is there a video you can point me to that explains where you are parking as you aren't using campsites?
Not a specific video as yet, but I park in Lay-bys, Industrial Estates and occasional in nicer spots. I'll be travelling around when the weather gets better. I will make a video on my park ups before long. Best wishes, Jim
There are all sorts of solutions to find a base to stay in your van and its great to have a base where you feel safe to be parked up.....or indeed be nomadic and move around or a bit of both. In terms of your solar panels get yourself an electric portable window vacuum and get up there regularily and wash your panels and then suck up the water with the cleaning machine. Karcher do one. It will transform your panel output. I live in the south of France so get quite a good bit of solar but recently went to Bordeaux where the weather is more inclement. I had to drive 20 minutes per day to keep my LiFo battery topped up with my Victron DC to DC charger which puts in 20ah . My battery is only 100ah .I have 200w of solar. if you have more batteries ....say 200ah the thats great but at the end of the day the prevailing climate is always the limiting factor. Down here I manage with one 100ah battery but if I was in the UK I guess I would have two but eventually you will face the same problem.....the supply does not meet the demand. You mentioned having a generator and thats a great way of topping up so if that works for you then keep it up. At the end of the day if you manage to generate enough power by either solar, DC to DC or a generator then you have it cracked. Your van looks great and a real home that you can stand up in unlike mine so enjoy and keep on doing what your doing as you will get the chance to change your morning view as often as you like and save yourself a fortune.
Hi there, thank you for your positive input. I'm a little be envious of your location as you're bound to benefit from more solar + warmer weather. And that's a great tip regarding the solar panels. Actually I use a regular Karcher on my windscreen/windows to suck up condensation I guess I could use it on my solar panels, but reaching that far would be problematic. I guess the one you're referring to would be extendable. Thanks again and best wishes over there. Jim
I have a friend who has much the same outlook as you "as in independent vanlife lifestyle" but he used 2 go on2 campsites about once a week but he used 2 almost treat that as a job of work , fully top up his van batteries (he has 2 fairly large ones) get all of his laundry done , give his loo a good washout , have an almost endless shower lol and so on , so campsites were a busy time for him lol , anyway good luck and happy safe trails
Hi Dave, this is a very interesting comment actually. Showering (a decent shower that is) and the washing of clothes is an issue in a van. I do see the benefit of doing that, but yes, you're essentially going there to do chores - if you count showering as a chore that is. I always keep my mind open to possibilities. Let's see if I have 2nd year with no 'paid' campsites. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 I am not saying that its for everyone , I know there are alternatives out there , BUT for him he just sees it like almost a necessary evil "as in ok its a few extra quid BUT all the clothes are done , the water tank is topped up batteries filled a good-ish shower and so on , , but thats his way , I am not saying it suits every taste
Gave you a like and a comment , to counterbalance any trolling you may get (lol). I enjoyed the content , the Inverter / generator info was usefull . To be honest I watched thinking you were going to share the sort of park ups you have used . So still interested to know , if you want to share with us on your next vid . Cheers
Always keyboard warriors Jim, probably jealous. The inverter generator is definitely the way to go, I lived totally off-grid in a home with one & mobile gas only. Please do a video on your park up places & if you've encountered any problems over the year. This is my only concern in a motorhome v a converted van, the mh unable to be stealth etc. Enjoyed the video, thanks.
Thank you. And yes, I will do a video on my park ups - it's on my to do list. I did do a video about the police knocking on my van in the last year, it happened twice in lay-bys. "When can you expect the cops to knock on your van door." And you're right, no stealth with a motorhome that's for sure! Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 Thanks Jim, yes a motorhome is my prefered choice & one a similar length of yours & only want to do off grid. I'm just wondering if there's enough suitable places to park/sleep over. I would prefer in nature & away from built up areas.
The short answer is - if you prefer being away from built up areas you will be absolutely fine. The real problem would be if you wanted to go into cities - I couldn't imagine something I'd want to do less. Unless we could go back to the 1950s maybe. Pretty sure that's not possible though. Lay-bys are plentiful - scenic spots (kinda depends on how touristy it is) and tbh I haven't totally figured that out myself yet - I didn't do much of that in my first year. The good thing is you can do you research on well known places beforehand. Best of luck to you - keep me posted. Jim
Hi Tom, I have some regular stops that are out of the way, including lay-bys and Industrial Estates, not hard at all knowing they aren't being used much and plenty of room even if they are - which in my case would be lorry drivers for the most part. I avoid cities/urban areas - if you want to park there it would be problematic. I'll do a video on park ups at some point. Best wishes, Jim
I'm the same as you don't want to go on campsites but the only thing I struggle with is getting water not drinking water use bottle water just for filling the main water tank for the sink ect so just wondered wondered what you do !!
Hi Paul, tbh I use minimal water in my van. Like you, I use bottled water for drinking. Essentially I use no water for washing up - I use biodegradable wet wipes. I very rarely shower in my van, (OK, I shower a lot less nowadays generally) I'll use a leisure centre or sometimes a friend's place to take a shower. To fill up my water tank (hardly ever do it now) I'll ask a friend of mine to use some water. I've heard you can get water at petrol garages - obv when you go to fill your tank, but I haven't tried it as such. I dare say some garages will and some won't have that option, but worth a try. Hopefully, that's not too much info regarding the lack of showering myself, wet wipes go a long way in my van. Best wishes, Jim
Hi there, well the generator using unleaded E10 petrol. In winter I use it every few days to charge everything up. I'm using about £30 to £40 of petrol a month. I'm using it quite a lot these days tbh so the petrol bill is kinda high. Nearer £40 I'd say, although the generator once full, a 4 litre tank, will run for about 5 hours under load. I hope this helps. Regards, Jim
Morning Jim. As a backup to solar do you have a powerbank ? I bought an 800w Aferiti for £300 at Christmas. I will run my microwave for twenty minutes or my electric blanket. Rechargeable by solar or by mains. Also do you use blackout blinds when parked up ? I like the honesty that comes with your channel. Try to use a different thumbnail on each one. Keep going...and enjoy.
Hi Steve. I have a couple of small Ecoflow power banks, not the big things though, 500w each I think. However, they certainly prolong my AC power. I use them for my laptop and I can use them for my electric blanket. I have a portable solar panel for them that's useful in summer. I have full blinds in my motorhome that blocks out all the light from outside no matter how bright it may be. Yes, I'm still experimenting with thumbnails tbh thanks for the feedback. Best wishes, Jim
Jim What a pleasure it is to see a nice tidy well kept van,and clean shaven,unlike 99%of the "van lifers" with stupid beards. Great tip. Pub car parks are great if you frequent the vicinity for a pint some even have fieldss around the back with water and plug ins. Mostly free or even a fiver a night.
@EarthingGrounding Must say, I've thought the same with all the unkempt guys & even couples doing van life. What is it with them? Jim is definitely positively different.
Thankyou Jim for your vids I really enjoy them. I’m hoping to go f/ time in a small motorhome next 2 years. If you don’t mind me asking how much was yours ? I also plan on urban parking . Thanks mate ( bloody hell mate - you’re doing something right - you don’t look 58!!!)
Hi Neil, it must be the favorable light in the motorhome or something. My motorhome is fairly big as I said, and while it's a 2009 plate it still cost me north of 30,000. I bought from a dealership because I wanted some security/warranty - I got a 12 month guarantee - glad I did. Best wishes, Jim
Just found your channel and I’m so glad!! I live in NZ and sick of the rat race… I would love to do what you are! Well done ❤🎉 ps ignore the negative comments. People like you say are easy to type sheit for no reason. Keep up the videos! I’m watching from a far 😂😊
It's hard to say Roger, too many variables. Getting the motorhome kitted out was expensive and took time. If you mean just regular costs once solar, diesel heater fitted etc I'd need to sit down and work that out. I'll do that on a video some time. Best wishes, Jim
I usually park up on quiet streets with off road parking (if im being discreet) if i have some cooking to do i will either do that before i arrive at my spot or park somewhere secluded where i can cook and walk my dog. hope your doing well fella 👍
Hi there, nice to say hello to a fellow van life person. Yes, I think you do things slightly different to me, but that's cool. I'm doing pretty well - I hope it's the same for you. Best of luck for 2025. Regards, Jim
Hi Duncan, the truth is I use bottle water for drinking/cooking/tea/dog's water, etc. I hardly ever fill up my motorhome water tank. I take shower (not that often) at a friend's place sometimes, leisure centre sometimes. I use biodegradable wet wipes for a lot of things. Not filling up my water tank means I don't have to empty it. I guess I won't be getting a girlfriend anytime soon, haha! Best wishes, Jim
Hats off to you Jim , although we never see you with yours off 😊 Good info on solar energy, ie the cloud and winter , do you find your dog a good companion, meaning could you do with out your dog , not emotionally but as an asset , apologies , it is late and I have had too much Irish liquer , all the best , love the channel and your info 👍
Well the hat will be off when it's warmer - that's a promise. I'm attached to my dog now, but he does play up occasionally, but there's no going back - it's a done deal. Best wishes to you my friend. Regards, Jim
Just have a look at mad marks videos he has just had an upgrade alternator plus an additional leisure battery, and it may be of interest. I would like to see the generator service it's a day in the life of a van dwelling. This would help with your utube channel also for fresh water beach huts have cold water taps, and cemeterys enjoyable video stay Safe Danny Sellers
Hi Daniel, yes I do watch Mad Mark's channel - I'll check it out. I'm hoping to meet up with Mark in a couple of months - we've been in touch by email. Thanks for the heads on up the water. Best wishes, Jim
It will be a while before you get enough from YT to feed more than the flees on Rover. I'm a photographer, expect to be driving around enough to keep my batteries charge. At home, I might need a solar panel to charge them.
Cheers Jim, as a future MH dweller I'm loving your no-drama and honest discussion style. Sadly, I dont think showing the mundane side of vanlife sells very well on YT, even though it is more useful information to the viewer. Most viewers want to see sweeping drone shots, swimming in lochs, and lots of concocted drama. Nowadays I only watch two or three channels regularly (including yours), because I just got too sick of the clickbait titles. Whenever I see titles like: "We were shocked", "Didnt expect this", "The end of vanlife?", "Disaster", or anything like that, I just click past them. The odds are it'll just be clickbait, and I'll waste 20 minutes watching boring people trying to make their lives look interesting, and/or trying to be witty and entertaining but just being naff, and/or doing normal mundane things. And of course there'll be nothing in it that relates to the title. Sorry about the rant - but because you dont have any of that BS, I'm sticking with the channel. I'd rather watch the truth being discussed in a calm manner as you do, than watch vanlife fantasies on seashores being peddled by unfunny people acting like children's TV presenters on speed. Rant over! 🤣 PS - have you considered installing a small solid fuel stove? You can often find fallen trees and logs in rural areas, so fuel can sometimes be free. A stove will also 'tick over' on a low heat through the night, so my boat stays at a comfortable temperature (and free of condensation), and its a much more pleasant living space during really cold weather. If you're worried about the appearance of it, you can remove the chimney top and put a cap on the flue when travelling, or when staying in a place where a chimney might attract negative attention. I'm going to try my best to install a small tent stove or similar when I get my MH. It might affect the value, but you can always keep the old gas fire somewhere, and reinstall it if you come to sell the vehicle. A combination of a diesel heater (for a quick blast of heat), plus a small stove, might be the ideal off grid setup.
I really appreciate you sticking with me even though I know myself my channel isn't about the glitzy side of this lifestyle - for a want of a better way of putting it. I hear what you're saying about a solid fuel stove (wood burner?). I only know of them going into campervans, converted vans. For motorhomes I think that's going to be tricky, but I'm the first to admit I don't know everything. Thanks for the positive input. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 , a stove in a MH would be tricky, your're right there Jim. You'd need to cut away some storage/wardrobe space to fit it, which itself is far from ideal. You might want a joiner to do the woodwork in a clean and tidy way, and you'd need a hearth and heatproof surround. So definitely not an easy job, but it would save a fortune on gas bottles in the winter. But that said, if you have refillable bottles like gaslow, the gas costs a lot less. I'd be looking to install a diesel heater anyway, as I think that would be cheaper to run than a propane gas fire. Loads of pros and cons to think about for me tbh- but anyway, keep up the good work mate!
Hi neil been following your channel since the beginning just wanted 2 say hello from Scotland u got any plans coming back up ? minus 7 thats tropical 4 up here in the highlands 😅😅😅
Hi Neil, no plans as yet, but it's a bit like Ireland, need to go in the summertime - when I do that is. Thank you for being there from the start. Best wishes, Jim
Hi Jason, good for you, once you've got all the stuff you feel you need for your van your monthly outgoings go right down. Good luck on your journey. Regards, Jim
Fair play to you Jim. The negative naysayers wouldn't have the balls to do what you've done. I'm on a steel boat in Ireland with no heating or running water or toilet facilities but managed to survive minus 5 degrees here the last week. I'd like to see one of those naysayers stick it for one night.😅 As you say Jim they're full of Cacamus 😅 Love the videos bless yous on you journey 🙏 You give me hope that things will get better.
Hi Michael, your message was heartwarming - bless you too mate. I think you have it much harder though. I hope you can sort out some heating and facilities in your boat before too long. These winters are no joke. Best wishes, Jim
Hi there, it's a Maxpeedingrods MRX3500 inverter generator. I highly recommend it. I did a 50 service on my one a few days ago. Perhaps I'll post the video of that. I filmed it, but I need to edit it. Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 thanks mate im fine at work have delta2 and spare battery charges my fogstar eco 305ah then typically campsites wk end i could be saving 400 a mth easily here
I hardly use any water in the van, I shower elsewhere when I can - friend's place, leisure centre so grey waste isn't an issue. Biodegradable wet wipes go a long way for cleaning dishes and me for that matter. I don't use the chemical toilet either - kinda covered that one in a previous vid. Best wishes, Jim
Hi Amanda, I had the lurgy over Christmas which I managed to get through, now I have this lingering cough - awful. I hope you're well. Best wishes, Jim
I have had the lurgy since NYE, my son, daughter and her partner has had it and mother has it, talk about persistent still have a cough and blocked sinuses happy days😔
Hi there. I have an Autoterm 4KW diesel heater and it's great - I just don't have it on all the time. So wrapping up well tends to be the norm in the van. There's also a heating system via a boiler that runs on LPG, but I save the LPG for the fridge freezer and cooking. Regards, Jim
Have been watching quite a few van life videos lately. I'm 64, state pension in 3 years (I hope) will be taking a drop in income and unless I carry on working prob struggle living in a house. The idea of van life is becoming more appealing. Your video has just come up and caught my attention. Have subscribed and hope to follow your journey from now. Enjoyed the frank no nonsense approach.
Thank you for subscribing to my channel. I hope you can learn something from it especially as you're perhaps considering it yourself. Best of luck, Jim
I enjoyed your video. UA-cam takes a lot of perseverance in order to build up your community enough to begin receiving any financial benefits. One to two 10 minute vids per week is what it takes to build viewership. Find a way to subtly remind folks they need to play the advertising for you to make even a penny. Cheers from across the pond.
Yes, you're absolute right there - it's pennies. And I've been going less than 2 months - early days. I'll just see how it goes tbh. I've visited the USA (assuming it, but could be Canada...) half a dozen times, I really enjoyed it there. I've heard you can take motorhomes over from the UK on a container ship, but it costs an awful lot as you can imagine, but what an adventure it could be. Best wishes to you on your end. Jim
Good on ya , I've been full-time for 10 years now , and it's been very liberating and adventurous I highly recommend the lifestyle.
I'm 58 too and I think what you're saying is you're all burnt out from decades of work ...ditto.
When you get to our age time becomes more valuable than chasing money.
Enjoy!
Hi Steven. I couldn't agree more with what you said here. 10 years, that's great. Best wishes, Jim
Looks like that generator inverter has been a great asset for you.
Another option is using charging stations which can also often be used to also park up if the location is used infrequently at night.
Hi there, yes it certainly has been. It's a game changer - means I'm not going to campsites for power - because where I park I can use it in most of my park ups. Regards, Jim
Good luck to you. I have a small campervan (not living in it) and I wouldn’t dream of going to a campsite. Stopping in a field not my idea of fun . But each to his own. Great channel
Hi Len, exactly - each to his own indeed. We do what we feel is best for us. And thanks for the compliment. Best wishes, Jim
Just subscribed... very inspiring..! Take care...all the best.
Thank you so much 🙂. Best wishes, Jim
I think what you’re doing is spot on I’m 59 worked all mi life so I’m going to do same as you don’t bother what anyone else says they only jealous 😊
Cheers Kevin. Best wishes to you too. Jim
Maybe you can do a review on the inverter generator & possibly a link to where you bought it on ebay + Are you going to do any european trips ? Happy travels 😃
Hi there, I just posted a video about servicing my inverter generator. I don't think the EBay seller I bought it from is still selling it tbh. But super easy to find it if you search for "Maxpeedingrods Inverter Generator MRX3500". EBay or Amazon and other places online no doubt. I'm planning on going to Ireland this year at least and from next year further afield. Best wishes, Jim
Love your relaxed way of delivering your dialogue . One day I hope to do what you are doing but and tied to the house . Want to make the most of using my Moho this year . Last year was first year and spent most of my time getting the van in shape . Despite it being new . Want to try this year doing more offgrid non campsite trips . You are dead right about solar generation . I had 560w put on roof , you don’t generate what people claim . Luckily I had twin b2b fitted so I can run the engine or drive to change up my leisure battery . Use my Ecoflow also to top up the Moho . Am assuming you use some lay-bys that are not next to road . Again you are right about the vans being comfortable for on man and a small dog . I don’t know how families manage it . Good luck . Thanks for your video and insights .
Hi Eddie, yes seems like you have similar thoughts to me. I've also got a B2B which is useful if you're low on power with a long'ish trip to do. I you really need to think about that beforehand tho. Best wishes, Jim
Hi your doing the right thing in life looking after number 1 which I found out later in life there's nobody coming to save you ,rant over 😂 been doing this van life for 7 months now I find it gets a bit naff in winter so can't wait for better weather to perk me up, sometimes it feels like you against the world with some people 😂 keep the vlogs going be good.
Hey Robbo (hopefully the name is right). Yes, look after yourself and if you do get some help it really is a bonus. Winter is the toughest time - no doubt about it. Thanks for the positive feedback and good luck to you on your end. Best wishes, Jim
Jim that's brilliant a full year no campsites. Love the info on solar too. Look forward to more from you on van life.
Thanks Robin. Best wishes, Jim
Just liked and subscribed, starting my build this year!
Hi Robert, best of luck with building your camper. You're braver than me. Regards, Jim
Not trying to be one of those people but given the title i was thinking i was going to hear where you've been parking instead of using campsites. Is there a video you can point me to that explains where you are parking as you aren't using campsites?
Not a specific video as yet, but I park in Lay-bys, Industrial Estates and occasional in nicer spots. I'll be travelling around when the weather gets better. I will make a video on my park ups before long. Best wishes, Jim
My thoughts too! :(
It's going to be my next video actually. I'll get on it tomorrow. Regards, Jim
There are all sorts of solutions to find a base to stay in your van and its great to have a base where you feel safe to be parked up.....or indeed be nomadic and move around or a bit of both. In terms of your solar panels get yourself an electric portable window vacuum and get up there regularily and wash your panels and then suck up the water with the cleaning machine. Karcher do one. It will transform your panel output. I live in the south of France so get quite a good bit of solar but recently went to Bordeaux where the weather is more inclement. I had to drive 20 minutes per day to keep my LiFo battery topped up with my Victron DC to DC charger which puts in 20ah . My battery is only 100ah .I have 200w of solar. if you have more batteries ....say 200ah the thats great but at the end of the day the prevailing climate is always the limiting factor. Down here I manage with one 100ah battery but if I was in the UK I guess I would have two but eventually you will face the same problem.....the supply does not meet the demand. You mentioned having a generator and thats a great way of topping up so if that works for you then keep it up. At the end of the day if you manage to generate enough power by either solar, DC to DC or a generator then you have it cracked. Your van looks great and a real home that you can stand up in unlike mine so enjoy and keep on doing what your doing as you will get the chance to change your morning view as often as you like and save yourself a fortune.
Hi there, thank you for your positive input. I'm a little be envious of your location as you're bound to benefit from more solar + warmer weather. And that's a great tip regarding the solar panels. Actually I use a regular Karcher on my windscreen/windows to suck up condensation I guess I could use it on my solar panels, but reaching that far would be problematic. I guess the one you're referring to would be extendable. Thanks again and best wishes over there. Jim
I have a friend who has much the same outlook as you "as in independent vanlife lifestyle" but he used 2 go on2 campsites about once a week but he used 2 almost treat that as a job of work , fully top up his van batteries (he has 2 fairly large ones) get all of his laundry done , give his loo a good washout , have an almost endless shower lol and so on , so campsites were a busy time for him lol , anyway good luck and happy safe trails
Hi Dave, this is a very interesting comment actually. Showering (a decent shower that is) and the washing of clothes is an issue in a van. I do see the benefit of doing that, but yes, you're essentially going there to do chores - if you count showering as a chore that is. I always keep my mind open to possibilities. Let's see if I have 2nd year with no 'paid' campsites. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 I am not saying that its for everyone , I know there are alternatives out there , BUT for him he just sees it like almost a necessary evil "as in ok its a few extra quid BUT all the clothes are done , the water tank is topped up batteries filled a good-ish shower and so on , , but thats his way , I am not saying it suits every taste
Yes, everyone's different, but I'd certainly see the way your friend does.
Gave you a like and a comment , to counterbalance any trolling you may get (lol). I enjoyed the content , the Inverter / generator info was usefull . To be honest I watched thinking you were going to share the sort of park ups you have used . So still interested to know , if you want to share with us on your next vid . Cheers
Hi Graham, thank you very much. Yes, I must do a video on my park ups - noted! Best wishes, Jim
Always keyboard warriors Jim, probably jealous.
The inverter generator is definitely the way to go, I lived totally off-grid in a home with one & mobile gas only.
Please do a video on your park up places & if you've encountered any problems over the year. This is my only concern in a motorhome v a converted van, the mh unable to be stealth etc.
Enjoyed the video, thanks.
Thank you. And yes, I will do a video on my park ups - it's on my to do list. I did do a video about the police knocking on my van in the last year, it happened twice in lay-bys. "When can you expect the cops to knock on your van door." And you're right, no stealth with a motorhome that's for sure! Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66
Thanks Jim, yes a motorhome is my prefered choice & one a similar length of yours & only want to do off grid.
I'm just wondering if there's enough suitable places to park/sleep over.
I would prefer in nature & away from built up areas.
The short answer is - if you prefer being away from built up areas you will be absolutely fine. The real problem would be if you wanted to go into cities - I couldn't imagine something I'd want to do less. Unless we could go back to the 1950s maybe. Pretty sure that's not possible though. Lay-bys are plentiful - scenic spots (kinda depends on how touristy it is) and tbh I haven't totally figured that out myself yet - I didn't do much of that in my first year. The good thing is you can do you research on well known places beforehand. Best of luck to you - keep me posted. Jim
Where do you park up and do you find it difficult ?
Hi Tom, I have some regular stops that are out of the way, including lay-bys and Industrial Estates, not hard at all knowing they aren't being used much and plenty of room even if they are - which in my case would be lorry drivers for the most part. I avoid cities/urban areas - if you want to park there it would be problematic. I'll do a video on park ups at some point. Best wishes, Jim
@ love your content keep it real and rustic 😊
Thanks!
I'm the same as you don't want to go on campsites but the only thing I struggle with is getting water not drinking water use bottle water just for filling the main water tank for the sink ect so just wondered wondered what you do !!
Hi Paul, tbh I use minimal water in my van. Like you, I use bottled water for drinking. Essentially I use no water for washing up - I use biodegradable wet wipes. I very rarely shower in my van, (OK, I shower a lot less nowadays generally) I'll use a leisure centre or sometimes a friend's place to take a shower. To fill up my water tank (hardly ever do it now) I'll ask a friend of mine to use some water. I've heard you can get water at petrol garages - obv when you go to fill your tank, but I haven't tried it as such. I dare say some garages will and some won't have that option, but worth a try. Hopefully, that's not too much info regarding the lack of showering myself, wet wipes go a long way in my van. Best wishes, Jim
Paul, hi again, check out
@danielsellers8538 comment regarding getting water. Regards, Jim
Lots of cemeterys have taps
I've heard this, I guess the only problem might be van access. But failing that you could fill up a container at least. Regards, Jim
Is this a parody? Like a David Brent mockumentary? Was very funny😂😂
Well I do like stand up comedy. Best wishes, Jim
My fourth year is coming up on February 14th still haven't paid for or stayed at a campsite
Excellent stuff. Regards, Jim
Can I ask what the running costs are fuel wise on the generator.. ide never thought about a generator to charge up your system but sounds a great idea
Hi there, well the generator using unleaded E10 petrol. In winter I use it every few days to charge everything up. I'm using about £30 to £40 of petrol a month. I'm using it quite a lot these days tbh so the petrol bill is kinda high. Nearer £40 I'd say, although the generator once full, a 4 litre tank, will run for about 5 hours under load. I hope this helps. Regards, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 cheers.. that helps roll on spring time
Amen to that.
Morning Jim. As a backup to solar do you have a powerbank ? I bought an 800w Aferiti for £300 at Christmas. I will run my microwave for twenty minutes or my electric blanket. Rechargeable by solar or by mains. Also do you use blackout blinds when parked up ?
I like the honesty that comes with your channel. Try to use a different thumbnail on each one. Keep going...and enjoy.
Hi Steve. I have a couple of small Ecoflow power banks, not the big things though, 500w each I think. However, they certainly prolong my AC power. I use them for my laptop and I can use them for my electric blanket. I have a portable solar panel for them that's useful in summer. I have full blinds in my motorhome that blocks out all the light from outside no matter how bright it may be. Yes, I'm still experimenting with thumbnails tbh thanks for the feedback. Best wishes, Jim
Jim
What a pleasure it is to see a nice tidy well kept van,and clean shaven,unlike 99%of the "van lifers" with stupid beards.
Great tip.
Pub car parks are great if you frequent the vicinity for a pint some even have fieldss around the back with water and plug ins.
Mostly free or even a fiver a night.
Thank you! and thanks for the tip. Best wishes, Jim
@EarthingGrounding
Must say, I've thought the same with all the unkempt guys & even couples doing van life.
What is it with them?
Jim is definitely positively different.
@AmsterVAN66
No problem sir.
Well thanks!
Thankyou Jim for your vids I really enjoy them. I’m hoping to go f/ time in a small motorhome next 2 years. If you don’t mind me asking how much was yours ? I also plan on urban parking . Thanks mate ( bloody hell mate - you’re doing something right - you don’t look 58!!!)
Hi Neil, it must be the favorable light in the motorhome or something. My motorhome is fairly big as I said, and while it's a 2009 plate it still cost me north of 30,000. I bought from a dealership because I wanted some security/warranty - I got a 12 month guarantee - glad I did. Best wishes, Jim
Just found your channel and I’m so glad!! I live in NZ and sick of the rat race… I would love to do what you are! Well done ❤🎉 ps ignore the negative comments. People like you say are easy to type sheit for no reason. Keep up the videos! I’m watching from a far 😂😊
Hi there, thank you for your positive comment. I hope you can escape too! Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 🙌🙏
Hi Jim.. how much do you estimate it has cost for the last 12 months?
It's hard to say Roger, too many variables. Getting the motorhome kitted out was expensive and took time. If you mean just regular costs once solar, diesel heater fitted etc I'd need to sit down and work that out. I'll do that on a video some time. Best wishes, Jim
I usually park up on quiet streets with off road parking (if im being discreet) if i have some cooking to do i will either do that before i arrive at my spot or park somewhere secluded where i can cook and walk my dog. hope your doing well fella 👍
Hi there, nice to say hello to a fellow van life person. Yes, I think you do things slightly different to me, but that's cool. I'm doing pretty well - I hope it's the same for you. Best of luck for 2025. Regards, Jim
Jim, where do you empty your tanks and get fresh water?
Hi Duncan, the truth is I use bottle water for drinking/cooking/tea/dog's water, etc. I hardly ever fill up my motorhome water tank. I take shower (not that often) at a friend's place sometimes, leisure centre sometimes. I use biodegradable wet wipes for a lot of things. Not filling up my water tank means I don't have to empty it. I guess I won't be getting a girlfriend anytime soon, haha! Best wishes, Jim
Hats off to you Jim , although we never see you with yours off 😊
Good info on solar energy, ie the cloud and winter , do you find your dog a good companion, meaning could you do with out your dog , not emotionally but as an asset , apologies , it is late and I have had too much Irish liquer , all the best , love the channel and your info 👍
Well the hat will be off when it's warmer - that's a promise. I'm attached to my dog now, but he does play up occasionally, but there's no going back - it's a done deal. Best wishes to you my friend. Regards, Jim
@ A dog is for life , I’m sure you love him 👍
Yes, he's for life and I do love him. Cheers, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 👍❤️
Good on you... you sounded really emotional bud .. its a big moment for you
Oh, I'm okay, but thank you for being kind. Best wishes, Jim
Just have a look at mad marks videos he has just had an upgrade alternator plus an additional leisure battery, and it may be of interest.
I would like to see the generator service it's a day in the life of a van dwelling. This would help with your utube channel also for fresh water beach huts have cold water taps, and cemeterys enjoyable video stay Safe
Danny Sellers
Hi Daniel, yes I do watch Mad Mark's channel - I'll check it out. I'm hoping to meet up with Mark in a couple of months - we've been in touch by email. Thanks for the heads on up the water. Best wishes, Jim
It will be a while before you get enough from YT to feed more than the flees on Rover.
I'm a photographer, expect to be driving around enough to keep my batteries charge. At home, I might need a solar panel to charge them.
Haha, you're right there. Best wishes, Jim.
I found on some campsites dog continuously barking had enough of it so rather park away from people
Hi David, yes - that's annoying! Best wishes, Jim
Cheers Jim, as a future MH dweller I'm loving your no-drama and honest discussion style.
Sadly, I dont think showing the mundane side of vanlife sells very well on YT, even though it is more useful information to the viewer.
Most viewers want to see sweeping drone shots, swimming in lochs, and lots of concocted drama.
Nowadays I only watch two or three channels regularly (including yours), because I just got too sick of the clickbait titles.
Whenever I see titles like: "We were shocked", "Didnt expect this", "The end of vanlife?", "Disaster", or anything like that, I just click past them.
The odds are it'll just be clickbait, and I'll waste 20 minutes watching boring people trying to make their lives look interesting, and/or trying to be witty and entertaining but just being naff, and/or doing normal mundane things. And of course there'll be nothing in it that relates to the title.
Sorry about the rant - but because you dont have any of that BS, I'm sticking with the channel.
I'd rather watch the truth being discussed in a calm manner as you do, than watch vanlife fantasies on seashores being peddled by unfunny people acting like children's TV presenters on speed.
Rant over! 🤣
PS - have you considered installing a small solid fuel stove? You can often find fallen trees and logs in rural areas, so fuel can sometimes be free. A stove will also 'tick over' on a low heat through the night, so my boat stays at a comfortable temperature (and free of condensation), and its a much more pleasant living space during really cold weather.
If you're worried about the appearance of it, you can remove the chimney top and put a cap on the flue when travelling, or when staying in a place where a chimney might attract negative attention.
I'm going to try my best to install a small tent stove or similar when I get my MH. It might affect the value, but you can always keep the old gas fire somewhere, and reinstall it if you come to sell the vehicle.
A combination of a diesel heater (for a quick blast of heat), plus a small stove, might be the ideal off grid setup.
I really appreciate you sticking with me even though I know myself my channel isn't about the glitzy side of this lifestyle - for a want of a better way of putting it. I hear what you're saying about a solid fuel stove (wood burner?). I only know of them going into campervans, converted vans. For motorhomes I think that's going to be tricky, but I'm the first to admit I don't know everything. Thanks for the positive input. Best wishes, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 , a stove in a MH would be tricky, your're right there Jim. You'd need to cut away some storage/wardrobe space to fit it, which itself is far from ideal.
You might want a joiner to do the woodwork in a clean and tidy way, and you'd need a hearth and heatproof surround.
So definitely not an easy job, but it would save a fortune on gas bottles in the winter. But that said, if you have refillable bottles like gaslow, the gas costs a lot less.
I'd be looking to install a diesel heater anyway, as I think that would be cheaper to run than a propane gas fire.
Loads of pros and cons to think about for me tbh- but anyway, keep up the good work mate!
An interesting suggestion there. I've got a 4KW Autoterm Diesel heater - it really does the job well. Regards, Jim
Hi neil been following your channel since the beginning just wanted 2 say hello from Scotland u got any plans coming back up ? minus 7 thats tropical 4 up here in the highlands 😅😅😅
Hi Neil, no plans as yet, but it's a bit like Ireland, need to go in the summertime - when I do that is. Thank you for being there from the start. Best wishes, Jim
I'm 57 this month buddy been living full time 7 weeks loving it had enough of the rat life 😊
Hi Jason, good for you, once you've got all the stuff you feel you need for your van your monthly outgoings go right down. Good luck on your journey. Regards, Jim
Fair play to you Jim.
The negative naysayers wouldn't have the balls to do what you've done. I'm on a steel boat in Ireland with no heating or running water or toilet facilities but managed to survive minus 5 degrees here the last week.
I'd like to see one of those naysayers stick it for one night.😅
As you say Jim they're full of Cacamus 😅
Love the videos bless yous on you journey 🙏
You give me hope that things will get better.
Hi Michael, your message was heartwarming - bless you too mate. I think you have it much harder though. I hope you can sort out some heating and facilities in your boat before too long. These winters are no joke. Best wishes, Jim
Nice one👍
Thanks for the visit. Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 subscribed
Thank you! Regards, Jim
What generator did you get please full time here as well
Hi there, it's a Maxpeedingrods MRX3500 inverter generator. I highly recommend it. I did a 50 service on my one a few days ago. Perhaps I'll post the video of that. I filmed it, but I need to edit it. Best wishes, Jim
@AmsterVAN66 thanks mate im fine at work have delta2 and spare battery charges my fogstar eco 305ah then typically campsites wk end i could be saving 400 a mth easily here
Good luck my friend. Best wishes, Jim
as soon as i see extra's for anything i just book elsewere
More should. Best wishes, Jim
OK that's your power, what about waster and human waste?
I hardly use any water in the van, I shower elsewhere when I can - friend's place, leisure centre so grey waste isn't an issue. Biodegradable wet wipes go a long way for cleaning dishes and me for that matter. I don't use the chemical toilet either - kinda covered that one in a previous vid. Best wishes, Jim
3 and a half years in the van and not a penny spent on camp sites, not hard at all.
Indeed, good luck on your van journey. Regards, Jim
@@AmsterVAN66 Thank you, and you to Jim, nice video.
Terry, thank you. Best wishes, Jim
Hope you're not getting the lurgy, it's awful trust me.
Hi Amanda, I had the lurgy over Christmas which I managed to get through, now I have this lingering cough - awful. I hope you're well. Best wishes, Jim
I have had the lurgy since NYE, my son, daughter and her partner has had it and mother has it, talk about persistent still have a cough and blocked sinuses happy days😔
Yes, seems like everyone had been down with it over Christmas/New Year. Take care. Jim
Jim, I notice in your videos that you are wrapped up well. Do you have heating in your van?
Hi there. I have an Autoterm 4KW diesel heater and it's great - I just don't have it on all the time. So wrapping up well tends to be the norm in the van. There's also a heating system via a boiler that runs on LPG, but I save the LPG for the fridge freezer and cooking. Regards, Jim
Don’t bring the fight and maybe you won’t get one ?
Well Simon, I'm not looking. Best wishes, Jim
Stick with your dog, they will always love truthfully
Hi Robert, yes you're right. He can be a little bit naughty, but then he's a boy - what can I really expect. Cheers fella. Jim