Thank you all so much for watching! 🙏🏼Remember to just slow down and enjoy your own journey 💛💛 Just a quick note, I have been receiving some messages from you all asking whether I sent you a message in Telegram regarding a prize. This is a Scam from a fake account. I will never message anyone directly like this for a prize. Remember my name has the verification tick next to it to prove it’s me. Please report these accounts and I’m so sorry if they tricked you 💛💛💛
Stoked the Bluff turned it on! Such a treasure to have world class waves in an unbelievable location! Next time in WA I have to visit the beautiful north!
Thanks for the video. I honestly did not expect that such a portable air conditioner exists. I think I can use the Wave to cool down my tent during weekend campouts.
I am going to admit that I was not expecting the Wave to have 4000BTUs of cooling power. Most portable air conditioners I have only have about 3000BTUs or less.
Thank you, Max, for all the awareness you bring to taking care of our mental health. It cannot be stressed enough how important it is. My heart smiles when I watch your videos!
We used to holiday in monkey Mia when I was a child. It was very basic then. The only fresh water was for drinking, all other water was salt water. You used to be able to buy buckets of fish at the caravan shop and walk into the water and hand feed the dolphins. No turnstiles to enter the beach and no one giving directions and orders. It was a lovely time but I do understand that as it became more popular, safety measures need to be made in order to protect how rare this all is. The fishing was amazing and as the name suggests…Shark Bay…the sharks were abundant and extremely present. 🦈🦈 I must admit, my first thought when I saw you out swimming with Occy in the water was “SHARK”. Thanks for sharing. Safe travels.
in the 70s, there was a 20 cent honor box at the gate, and finding 7 dolphins playing in the shallows on a full moon was a delight, and cost Zip, Zero, Zilch.
Honestly with Hunter during our Van life trip it was like free camping for mom and dad and then a caravan park for Hunter with the waterpark and she loved it
@Max & Occy, I love this video! I feel the same about the sea ! My health is now a hindrance so watching you and Occy is so enjoyable! Also Max, love your choices of musicl and you do just the right amount .Agree about the mental health and happy you promote it.Lastly, good for you on growing and owning how what we think we know to be true can change...Safe & happy travels ox. PS, Hi Steve!🥳
Thank you Max. Thank you for not giving up after Lee. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, grief, struggles, joy and complete story. I loved you and Lee as a couple and as individuals. I went and searched out the poster you posted in regards to men's mental health and will be sharing it on my social media pages. I love you Max. We all do. Just remember that where ever you are and what ever you are doing you are wished well. Please give Occy a hug from me.
DUDE!!! You are one massively spoiled guy. But you deserve it! WOW. The places you travel to. The things you experience, and see firsthand. I love your channel. I thank you for your channel. Suffering with as much SH1T as I do, it's refreshing to be able to sit through an entire vlog without my ADHD kicking in, is nothing short of a miracle. I have no idea when I am going to catch up to all your posts, but I also cannot just jump ahead and only watch recent episodes. FOMO. I am so enjoying everything you post. Even if I do end up teary-eyed! BLESSED ABUNDANTLY!
This 74 year old suv camper, loves watching every moment of you and your boys adventures. Just getting out…..however possible….as often as I can, keeps me curious.
Thankyou so much for taking us along,im enjoying myself so much.loving the way you treat Occy,you are both blessed to have one another.we are also blessed to be traveling along with you.may God just keep on blessings You and Occy❤❤❤🇿🇦🌹
I just surfed around, saw your dog and watched this video. I had a female Aussie (Sidney) for 17 years. Sidney was my heart and Occy filled my void. We are also campers. We have a 40' toy hauler and travel the south east USA. Your video quality is beautiful. I'm a novice on video making. I subscribed and look forward to more. Give Occy a hug from Joy in the USA. XOX
That certainly is a beautiful park to stay in. The other bonus is meeting new people, if you want to, in a park setting. We are into winter here in Washington State in the US so it's really lovely to take a break from the cold and see the beautiful scenery there. Stay safe Max and give that adorable Occy an extra cuddle. 💜
Definitely a great social atmosphere Tracey!! Although I tend to find that for camping in general (in camp sites outside of caravan parks as well). Glad to bring you some sunshine 💛
Thank you for such a wonderful video. When I was young, I was very adventurous. I traveled all over, camped and hike mountains. Your videos bring my old mind right back to those wonderful times.
Great videos Max. I really enjoy your honesty, editing, and mental health awareness. I will be honest - things have been quite difficult lately and I tell myself that I “need to get my head in a better place”. Stay safe and enjoy your adventures!
Thank you Randy and I’m really sorry to hear about the tough times! Please make sure you are communicating this to those around you and seeking help as you would with any other health condition 💛
Hey Randy! It is ok to not to feel ok. As Max wrote to you, do ask for help from professionals, there is nothing wrong about that and that you do not need to carry your pain/being unwell just by yourself! ❤️ I wish you nothing but the best and a lot of joy. 😊
I really think that you should be scouted for consulting with caravan manufacturers so that you can give them the on hands and tech expertise that you are highly skilled at .. It's what you do ! .. If any of them watch the show they'd be smart to keep you on their payroll for not only testing products but consulting to make the experience even better .. great video again you two ..
In our tent days we would set up outdoor showers with a hanging bucket, heating water and cooling on a fire. Never went to caravan parks. Now we have a caravan and can enjoy all the comforts of home anywhere we can find a spot. We love taking our caravan off grid, between gas and our solar we have all the fuel/power we need to stay off grid (unless it’s cloudy for days on end). We also have a little pump and filters to collect water from creeks/rivers, that makes us so independent. We stay in caravan parks occasionally and hate it, so squashed up. Even when our kids were young enough to enjoy the parks they got so much more from being in the bush with room to play in the dirt, ride bikes and play ball. Such a sense of freedom to be able to stay wherever you want.
I teared up when you and Occy were among the dolphins, at 63 years old I still pretend I’m a dolphin when I swim, they are my ‘peeps’! The number one reason for getting this AC is for my dogs! I have cooling vests and fans but still leave the van running when its hot, doors locked, so the AC can be on when I need to get food (even though I will do a quick shop), I am so glad this is finally available, I know I would buy it in a minute if I had the funds. Thx for the tip about Caravan parks, I’d never even think of it but you are right, so many ‘resets’, thx Max! Hugs to you and Occy.
Just stumbled onto your channel, awesome. I don't have a van or go camping but enjoyed your video. I subscribed and shared it to my niece and her husband who have a new van similar to yours, they'll be really interested. Love your doggy.
Loved the vlog Max, Occy is a very lucky dog. I watch you with Eamon & Bec and Kara and Nate and enjoy you all and live vicariously through you all LOL! Have an absolutely blessed day you two :)
In the United States, many RV parks have restrictions on how old your camper can be to keep up the "appearance" of the park itself. Many people don't realize this and go to these places only to find their RV is to old to camp there. We camp offgrid sometimes and at a campground sometimes, both have their pros and cons. Beautiful scenery where you are, enjoy. I think Occy is the coolest dog I have ever seen. His personality os just so big.
Another incredible vid. I love your life and can’t wait to start it myself! Agreed on the caravan/RV parks. So important to find good ones. Sadly, here in the states, there are many that don’t allow van or bus conversions. They are aligned with the RV makers only and they have age restrictions regarding the year of your RV. It’s ridiculous and all the more reason to have a really good off grid system. Thank you for your content, the inspiration, the adventures, for being a compassionate vegan, and for always being kind!! Also, thank you for being the role model for men’s mental health and de-stigmatizing men taking care of their mental health!! ❤💚🧠💪🏼
Wow that is so crazy to hear that they discriminate based on the type of vehicle you are in... is that even legal? I would've thought they would be happy for any paying customer... Thank you for the kind words and support Rachelle 💛💛
@@MaxandOccy right?? You’d think the revenue would be wanted but I’ve talked to some folks who were turned away from RV parks because they don’t have a traditional RV. I’ve also visited sone Arab park sites where they straight up list “No van or bus conversions allowed”. It’s crazy!! I wish it were illegal. Maybe as van/buslife continues to grow it’ll change. 🤞🏼🤞🏼 And you’re welcome!! Happy to show my support for you and Occy any time! You’re both amazing beings!! 💚💚
Thanks for the beautiful video. I find it so interesting that dolphins want to be around us and play. Such beautiful creatures! Those emu weren't shy either!
Ahhhh, I am always feeling so relaxed and at peace after your videos of such beautiful scenery and content. I'm glad you see the value in RV parks and know that you deserve those amenities from time to time, even though you are usually self sustaining in your well equipped van. By the way, you have one of my favorites of a van conversion. Take care of yourself and Occy and safe travels. See you next time, looking forward to it.
The dolphins swimming so close to you and checking you out was beautiful! I never heard of a dugong before. Here in the United States we have manatees in Florida. Beautiful video, max. 💛
Your channel is my favourite, it’s so honest and fair and balanced, mature, no annoying drama or gimmicks to drum up entertainment. It’s so easy and enjoyable to watch, the camera work the music honestly it never fails. Thank you for sharing your tourney, your experiences, your thoughts.
We (66 and 67 year old couple) live and travel in a 21-foot travel trailer...and we do 95% of our living off-grid. Couldn't agree more with you regarding the RV industry keeping people from enjoying free camping. It's the BEST! Thanks for stating your position and calling attention to this issue...✌🙌
It sounds like staying at a caravan park, or RV park in the USA, is a smart thing to do a couple times a month. Filling up your water, doing laundry, a thorough van cleaning using the shore power, loooonngg showers all would be worth the extra expense!
We camped or stayed in cabins at caravan parks when our kids were little, last time was 10 years ago. The kids loved it and enjoyed making new friends. Some places were fantastic, others dreadful. We went to different beaches each year, the only time we could have more than a day at a beach in Summer. Some parks with permanent residents were great, over the Summer holidays the residents would run a kitchen for the tourists, child friendly meals, ice creams. It paid for their social activities in the off season. Nowadays, I'd love to get an off grid trailer like ezytrail so we could camp off grid with solar power. Just waiting for my workaholic husband to agree!
We live in our motorhome in England and don't have much of an off grid setup, just 100w solar and one 100ah battery and no inverter. We used to free camp but only for one night at a time, but never felt comfortable, so we stay on small five van sites with no facilities apart from a hookup and Elsen point for emptying cassette toilet, and of course water. These small sites tend to be between £15 to £20 per night. We watch you and people in America where you have so much more room than us and of course the weather. Thank you for a great video.
That Mr Algorithm sure is finicky. I'm one of your OG subs and your videos haven't been on my feed for I'd say a good couple weeks! I figured you were just still off the radar being super remote. I was so excited to see this thumbnail and tag along with you and your best mate. Greetings from Toronto where we're having our first snowfall. 🌬❄️☃️
There’s always a snobbery involved in boating/vanning, until one realises the ‘luxury’ afforded by a campsite or marina. Yes, it’s great to be able to live off grid in your chosen preference, but honestly both have their benefits and everyone sometimes needs the power/benefits of being on a site. I’m so glad to see it when people change their opinion. Thank you Max, I love your updates. H xx
Thank you for taking us on another adventure! The marvels of all the oceans have to offer is breath taking! We do off grid camping in Alberta Canada. It’s sooo great to find that perfect spot to unwind without worrying about the size of your camp fire, what time it is that everyone is still enjoying said camp fire! 😂 learning to be off grid is great living tool! We do both though depending on what type of trip we are looking for, because as you say there are many advantages! Stay safe and thanks again ❤
Such a thrill seeing the way the dolphins seem to connect. The whales from a couple of vids ago were pretty awesome too - especially when the baby seemed to be waving! Thank you for sharing your experiences, your genuine sweetness and honesty, and your creativity. Nature is the best medicine. 🐶
Max, I completely agree that caravan manufacturers seem to go all out for building ‘off road’ capable caravans and campers, but give them measly power options. They seem to be stuck in the lat century and it’s now 2022. We do the mix of mostly off grid with occasional caravan parks. Some of the best caravan park options from our perspective are in small WA wheatbelt towns. They are very cheap, with basic facilities so that you can do washing, have long showers and fill up with water for the next stage of your trip. There might be a nearby pub for an evening meal and a small but well stocked supermarket. They are usually run by local councils to bring travellers into town, without having to make a profit from the caravan park itself.
Very very very true about the van cost! We build a van in UK 2 years ago and it’s a solid system to go off grid for long. Cost around 30K! We are now in BC, Canada and wanted to build a other one… nightmare! Just to buy a cargo van now it’s 70-100K with nothing in it! It’s absolutely ridiculous how it became a sadly to expensive to live free on the road!
Definitely an issue! I was at Cronulla, a few weeks ago, watching a surf comp and there were a few vans for sale. I was checking them all out and was like “umm these “fancy” vans are expensive for not being off grid ” and was explaining to my mum everything I would like and want in a van and that I feel like I’d have to diy it. How did I get this knowledge and opinions? Watching the amazing people, like you, on RUclips 🎉 Thank you for making videos for us to gain knowledge and showing us the world with your best mate 👌🏼
👍 Another cool video, Max! ❤ the wild dolphins 🐬, Dugong encounters, roaming emus at your campsite and, as always, Occy 🐾. Your assessment of the paid RV parks and RV industry is right on, especially when they're gigantic mansions on wheels with 3 TVs, constant AC, dishwasher, 1.5 bath setups with leaded batteries and little to no solar. They're hooked up to paid RV parks all the time or useless. I was obsessed with Leisure Travel vans before but after seeing yours and other vans built channels, I'm an absolute convert and think this is the best way to go! 🏞🏜🏖
I agree with you Max. Even here in Canada, we have amazing campsites or RV Parks, but some of them are just too loud and crowded. I'm a purest and prefer off grid, but sometimes it just isn't possible. Great video. Occy is a champ!
I have been for 12 years part time vanlifer( spring/summer/fall) but always mixed it up with camping,hotel winter and over seas travel. I Enjoy the mixture! Great vedio! Love ❤ the Dolphins 🐬 thank you for the ride:))))))
We love off grid camping and choose to whenever possible. Generally we will go into a caravan park once a week to top up water, power and do the washing. Otherwise off grid all the way. You meet more incredible people in off grid camping too.
Hey, Max! Thank you for another great video. I always enjoy seeing your wildlife encounters especially when Occy is along for the experience 🥰 As for the caravan park/RV issue: I've seen the RV/motorhome industry impact our state parks as many are now being forced to invest in updating their power outlets to accommodate the power draw needed by the bigger units being sold and pushed by the industry. I've seen a lot of rigs with several AC units and larger TVs and appliances, and with hotter summers, it's a real draw on the park power grids. I do love seeing more people out there enjoying nature (great for mental well-being ❤️) and supporting our state parks so there's definitely plusses and minuses to this. Also, more people unfortunately means more trash and damage to these locations, which is painful to see. Our bus does pretty well off-grid during the colder months but we're still working on getting her off-grid in the summer. For now, we plan to drive where it's (hopefully) cooler to get away from the heat. Much love to you guys! Take care and safe and fun travels 🥰
Hey Mel! You raise a great point there regarding the fact that the type of luxury appliances being included in some of the new RV’s (as paid extras I’m sure) is also prohibitive to going off grid (and result in huge power draws). Hopefully there is a push to more 12v accessories at least.. I bet your school bus is a beast! 💛
Love your videos and I think it great that you have opened up about mental health and the struggles people can have with it and what you can do about it. You seem to be in a much better place...physically and mentally.
One way for viewers to “beat” the algorithm is simply to click over to Subscriptions rather than staying g on the main feed that RUclips sends you to. Since we subscribe to creators, it only makes sense to head straight there to follow our favorites! Also, notifications help as well. Love you and Occy and your channel!
💯 agree about the ongoing money making relationship between major van makers and big parks! Campers being packed in like sardines. Free camp sites are our go to for better locations would only use big chain parks as last minute back up. Weather conditions are causing issues with free camp stays (boggy or flooding if near rivers or creeks) which can be long drives between other locations if you can’t find a parking spot.
Thanks, for this inspirational video.The Beauty & Benefits of Van Life ,beautiful ocean ,traveling sight seeing ,meeting amazing like minded people.Awesome Caravan Camping.Happy Birthday; Sam ,Blessings to you Max, Occy ,& Team ,new friends. Amen! 🙏❤🙏😇🤗
Agree w/ finding your own personal balance between "wild time" and "recharge time" 😄 I've always admired the style of videos that you create -- and just thinking, it'd be super cool -- if during one of your "recharge caravan park" stints, you could do a video talking about your equipment, why you chose it, and B-roll some of the shots you create. 🤔 I especially love, your surfing and underwater shots. Do you do some of those with a waterproof Go-pro on your head? Super curious. Also, would love to see a video on how you do your music - video editing and how much time something like that takes. I think you are especially talented with those segments. 🙂Just an idea! Blessings to you and Oc!
you forgot to show that the ecoflow wave needs an exhaust and intake hose attached to the back, a completely space hogging unit for a small van, much better and more efficient to have a roof mounted AC. I love how the website even fails to show the hoses.
Hey Max, all these animals and marine life are so attracted to you, amazing, emus are extremely curious, funny to watch. Give me off grid any day over caravan parks, many vans are now being kitted out after purchase for off grid travel, my concern will be our overlords of bureaucrats will start putting in more nanny rules, and councils will lawlessly fine Aussies with their bi and tri laws of every description. I counted the word reset four times Max in your video, that’s a very touchy word currently for many.😢 My cousin raved about monkey Mia 30 years ago, I see why! ❤ Yachts and catamarans aren’t kitted out much either unless you ask and pay extra for it, supply and demand is changing this overall. Eco flow must be thriving.
I saw the utility of caravan parks while backpacking (tramping) through NZ. It was great to have a hot shower, wash clothes, and reset. Since we had our own backpacking stove, it took us a while to see that the kitchens were a good place to chat with folks and get good info about the local area, conditions, trails, etc. I enjoyed staying in caravan parks when we went to Australia and just had a vehicle. The little cabins were plenty for our needs and we were closer to nature, enjoying some lovely birds serenading us. Now that we have a van, we do have off-grid capability and love it.
There are so many great camping spots in Tassie...that don't have concrete slabs, just sites nestled amongst the trees with sandy ground under foot. Surely too there's the safety aspect..even in Australia. Nothing scarier than boondocking and having a car turn up in the middle of the night. I'd much rather my kids start their driving and camping experiences on the road amongst other like minded people and enjoy the social side it brings with it. Places like Coles Bay and Bruny Island are full of younger, like minded people.also, I might add, it's easier for us down here to go somewhere remote so maybe it's not as much of a novelty 🤣
We call it boon docking here in the US. We used to take our rv off grid even without solar, the engine or generator to charge the battery or provide electric for needed items and use as little as needed. However we weren’t living in our setup just weekend and longer trips. Hookups are nice if your staying extended times out and a nice convenient option. It all depends on your motive, we wanted to be secluded, just us and nature.
I love it when the ocean life comes up to you and o c c y. It's like they're not even nervous. And o c c y is so calm. He's a good boy. And he's so cute!! I agree with you about the Parks some are wonderful and some are not. I love your videos I can't wait to see the next one. I just think it's amazing seeing y'all on that little board with all those big dolphins and whales.
What a beautiful caravan park. I think you gave a very balance view of off grid and where the caravan park can be an asset. Of course, your time on the water and the water life we were able to see is superb again. Love getting to see Occy enjoying himself even if he wanted to protect from those big birds. LOL
I want you know that watching your videos brings me inexpressible joy and a vastly deeper appreciation for the good in people. This is the best content on RUclips imho. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
These videos just make my heart sing. You and Occy are a gift. I most likely will never see Australia, and even if I do, I won’t see it like this. I don’t think I’d have the guts to do a solo van life experience, but at least I get to experience it through your videos. Thank you!
From an increasingly chilly Autumn in SW England, our Van lives are very different ! And yet very similar …. though it was squirrels running past my van yesterday not birds that big 😮
Thank you all so much for watching! 🙏🏼Remember to just slow down and enjoy your own journey 💛💛
Just a quick note, I have been receiving some messages from you all asking whether I sent you a message in Telegram regarding a prize. This is a Scam from a fake account. I will never message anyone directly like this for a prize. Remember my name has the verification tick next to it to prove it’s me.
Please report these accounts and I’m so sorry if they tricked you 💛💛💛
Thank you for clearing that up. And thank you for another great video.
I got a message that message to contact you in telegram. I’m about to blocked that fake account.
Stoked the Bluff turned it on! Such a treasure to have world class waves in an unbelievable location! Next time in WA I have to visit the beautiful north!
Yeah - It's happening more frequently now. A lot of RUclips Creators like you have said the same.
They're all over YT!
Sponsored or not, that Wave would be a good addition to the outdoor life. I can say goodbye to hot nights and always have a good rest with it.
The dolphins swimming around you on the paddle board was magical. I just love Occy with all of my heart. Thanks for making these videos Max
I think Occy makes the magic happen ✨💛
@@MaxandOccy I think its 50/50....Occy would be lost without you and vice versa!!! Teamwork is dreamwork!!!
@@Whistler326 ❤🐕
This old lady from Arizona, USA, LOVES traveling with you two. Thanks for all you do.
Thank you for joining us Judith! 💛
Thanks for the video. I honestly did not expect that such a portable air conditioner exists. I think I can use the Wave to cool down my tent during weekend campouts.
I am going to admit that I was not expecting the Wave to have 4000BTUs of cooling power. Most portable air conditioners I have only have about 3000BTUs or less.
Thank you, Max, for all the awareness you bring to taking care of our mental health. It cannot be stressed enough how important it is. My heart smiles when I watch your videos!
Just glad to be able to help raise awareness 💛💛 and love to hear that ☺️
Max- Now that you have the Eco-flow AC con , you must have the sweetest ride on the planet !
That Ecoflow Wave looks like it is a perfect match for your RV. It ain't that big and it is quite compact as a portable airconditioner.
We used to holiday in monkey Mia when I was a child. It was very basic then. The only fresh water was for drinking, all other water was salt water. You used to be able to buy buckets of fish at the caravan shop and walk into the water and hand feed the dolphins. No turnstiles to enter the beach and no one giving directions and orders. It was a lovely time but I do understand that as it became more popular, safety measures need to be made in order to protect how rare this all is.
The fishing was amazing and as the name suggests…Shark Bay…the sharks were abundant and extremely present. 🦈🦈
I must admit, my first thought when I saw you out swimming with Occy in the water was “SHARK”.
Thanks for sharing. Safe travels.
Occy is the perfect dog for you and your advice…
in the 70s, there was a 20 cent honor box at the gate, and finding 7 dolphins playing in the shallows on a full moon was a delight, and cost Zip, Zero, Zilch.
Honestly with Hunter during our Van life trip it was like free camping for mom and dad and then a caravan park for Hunter with the waterpark and she loved it
The perfect compromise! 💛
Max, couldn’t help noticing the lack of flies!!! Excellent!! 😂👍🏻
The dolphins was incredible!!! I just love them, and Occy! He is so adorable.
"Gently tap the thumbs up button," is what got me to do just that. Good for you for not saying "smash."
Love watching Occy in the water. He is such a happy content doggo. Beautiful video Max. Didn't want it to end.
Thanks Suzanne!! And Occy is certainly the happiest in the sea, just like me 💛
@Max & Occy, I love this video!
I feel the same about the sea ! My health is now a hindrance
so watching you and Occy is so enjoyable! Also Max, love your choices of musicl and you do just the right amount .Agree about the mental health and happy you promote it.Lastly, good for you on growing and owning how what we think
we know to be true can change...Safe & happy travels ox. PS, Hi Steve!🥳
Animals and humans existing together in peace. That place is so special. I am glad you invited us to enjoy the beauty with you and Occy 😍❤
Thank you Max. Thank you for not giving up after Lee. Thank you for sharing your thoughts, grief, struggles, joy and complete story. I loved you and Lee as a couple and as individuals. I went and searched out the poster you posted in regards to men's mental health and will be sharing it on my social media pages. I love you Max. We all do. Just remember that where ever you are and what ever you are doing you are wished well. Please give Occy a hug from me.
💛💛💛
Max you’re the best…Love your videos… Thanks so much..
DUDE!!! You are one massively spoiled guy. But you deserve it! WOW. The places you travel to. The things you experience, and see firsthand. I love your channel. I thank you for your channel. Suffering with as much SH1T as I do, it's refreshing to be able to sit through an entire vlog without my ADHD kicking in, is nothing short of a miracle. I have no idea when I am going to catch up to all your posts, but I also cannot just jump ahead and only watch recent episodes. FOMO. I am so enjoying everything you post. Even if I do end up teary-eyed!
BLESSED ABUNDANTLY!
This 74 year old suv camper, loves watching every moment of you and your boys adventures. Just getting out…..however possible….as often as I can, keeps me curious.
Thankyou so much for taking us along,im enjoying myself so much.loving the way you treat Occy,you are both blessed to have one another.we are also blessed to be traveling along with you.may God just keep on blessings You and Occy❤❤❤🇿🇦🌹
I just surfed around, saw your dog and watched this video. I had a female Aussie (Sidney) for 17 years. Sidney was my heart and Occy filled my void. We are also campers. We have a 40' toy hauler and travel the south east USA. Your video quality is beautiful. I'm a novice on video making. I subscribed and look forward to more. Give Occy a hug from Joy in the USA. XOX
Everytime I watch one of your videos I end up with one or two new songs on my iPhone.
Absolutely agree that spreading time between caravan parks and free camping works like a charm - especially when it comes to doing laundry!!
100%!
I couldn’t be around Occy without kissing his face a hundred times! Dolphins and other camp visitors-so fun. Love your videos Max! 🐾 🙏🤗
That certainly is a beautiful park to stay in. The other bonus is meeting new people, if you want to, in a park setting. We are into winter here in Washington State in the US so it's really lovely to take a break from the cold and see the beautiful scenery there. Stay safe Max and give that adorable Occy an extra cuddle. 💜
Definitely a great social atmosphere Tracey!! Although I tend to find that for camping in general (in camp sites outside of caravan parks as well). Glad to bring you some sunshine 💛
Makes me so happy how you involve occy in everything. He has a amazing life 💙💙
Thank you for such a wonderful video. When I was young, I was very adventurous. I traveled all over, camped and hike mountains. Your videos bring my old mind right back to those wonderful times.
Great videos Max. I really enjoy your honesty, editing, and mental health awareness. I will be honest - things have been quite difficult lately and I tell myself that I “need to get my head in a better place”. Stay safe and enjoy your adventures!
Thank you Randy and I’m really sorry to hear about the tough times! Please make sure you are communicating this to those around you and seeking help as you would with any other health condition 💛
I agree with you that rv's etc should come ready for off grid living. I don't understand why on demand water heaters aren't standard.
Hey Randy! It is ok to not to feel ok. As Max wrote to you, do ask for help from professionals, there is nothing wrong about that and that you do not need to carry your pain/being unwell just by yourself! ❤️ I wish you nothing but the best and a lot of joy. 😊
I really think that you should be scouted for consulting with caravan manufacturers so that you can give them the on hands and tech expertise that you are highly skilled at .. It's what you do ! .. If any of them watch the show they'd be smart to keep you on their payroll for not only testing products but consulting to make the experience even better .. great video again you two ..
Max you bring so much happiness to the world. I love your adventures and absolutely love Occy. Bless you, your family and friends ❤❤❤❤
I concur....your sentiments are soooo accurate, This messed up world needs more Happiness and less doom and gloom!!
Thank you so much 💛 Really appreciate your kind words!
In our tent days we would set up outdoor showers with a hanging bucket, heating water and cooling on a fire. Never went to caravan parks. Now we have a caravan and can enjoy all the comforts of home anywhere we can find a spot. We love taking our caravan off grid, between gas and our solar we have all the fuel/power we need to stay off grid (unless it’s cloudy for days on end). We also have a little pump and filters to collect water from creeks/rivers, that makes us so independent. We stay in caravan parks occasionally and hate it, so squashed up. Even when our kids were young enough to enjoy the parks they got so much more from being in the bush with room to play in the dirt, ride bikes and play ball. Such a sense of freedom to be able to stay wherever you want.
I teared up when you and Occy were among the dolphins, at 63 years old I still pretend I’m a dolphin when I swim, they are my ‘peeps’! The number one reason for getting this AC is for my dogs! I have cooling vests and fans but still leave the van running when its hot, doors locked, so the AC can be on when I need to get food (even though I will do a quick shop), I am so glad this is finally available, I know I would buy it in a minute if I had the funds. Thx for the tip about Caravan parks, I’d never even think of it but you are right, so many ‘resets’, thx Max! Hugs to you and Occy.
Just stumbled onto your channel, awesome. I don't have a van or go camping but enjoyed your video. I subscribed and shared it to my niece and her husband who have a new van similar to yours, they'll be really interested. Love your doggy.
Loved the vlog Max, Occy is a very lucky dog. I watch you with Eamon & Bec and Kara and Nate and enjoy you all and live vicariously through you all LOL! Have an absolutely blessed day you two :)
Thanks Melissa! In good company 💛💛
In the United States, many RV parks have restrictions on how old your camper can be to keep up the "appearance" of the park itself. Many people don't realize this and go to these places only to find their RV is to old to camp there. We camp offgrid sometimes and at a campground sometimes, both have their pros and cons. Beautiful scenery where you are, enjoy. I think Occy is the coolest dog I have ever seen. His personality os just so big.
I probably say this every week, but yet another great video Max! Thank you for bringing us along as always, and educating us all.
Well I appreciate it every week!! Thank you 🙏🏼💛💛
Another incredible vid. I love your life and can’t wait to start it myself! Agreed on the caravan/RV parks. So important to find good ones. Sadly, here in the states, there are many that don’t allow van or bus conversions. They are aligned with the RV makers only and they have age restrictions regarding the year of your RV. It’s ridiculous and all the more reason to have a really good off grid system. Thank you for your content, the inspiration, the adventures, for being a compassionate vegan, and for always being kind!! Also, thank you for being the role model for men’s mental health and de-stigmatizing men taking care of their mental health!! ❤💚🧠💪🏼
Wow that is so crazy to hear that they discriminate based on the type of vehicle you are in... is that even legal? I would've thought they would be happy for any paying customer...
Thank you for the kind words and support Rachelle 💛💛
@@MaxandOccy right?? You’d think the revenue would be wanted but I’ve talked to some folks who were turned away from RV parks because they don’t have a traditional RV. I’ve also visited sone Arab park sites where they straight up list “No van or bus conversions allowed”. It’s crazy!! I wish it were illegal. Maybe as van/buslife continues to grow it’ll change. 🤞🏼🤞🏼 And you’re welcome!! Happy to show my support for you and Occy any time! You’re both amazing beings!! 💚💚
I am from Germany and I’ve been exactly at the same caravan park in 2019. Makes me quite emotional. Thank you, Max :)
I just love Occy’s face! That is all.
Thanks for the beautiful video. I find it so interesting that dolphins want to be around us and play. Such beautiful creatures! Those emu weren't shy either!
Thanks for always being honest, Max! 🙏🏻
Ahhhh, I am always feeling so relaxed and at peace after your videos of such beautiful scenery and content. I'm glad you see the value in RV parks and know that you deserve those amenities from time to time, even though you are usually self sustaining in your well equipped van. By the way, you have one of my favorites of a van conversion. Take care of yourself and Occy and safe travels. See you next time, looking forward to it.
Thank you so much for the kind words! 💛
The dolphins swimming so close to you and checking you out was beautiful! I never heard of a dugong before. Here in the United States we have manatees in Florida. Beautiful video, max. 💛
They are the same thing just different name
That message at the very end is so important and powerful ❤️
Your channel is my favourite, it’s so honest and fair and balanced, mature, no annoying drama or gimmicks to drum up entertainment. It’s so easy and enjoyable to watch, the camera work the music honestly it never fails. Thank you for sharing your tourney, your experiences, your thoughts.
We (66 and 67 year old couple) live and travel in a 21-foot travel trailer...and we do 95% of our living off-grid. Couldn't agree more with you regarding the RV industry keeping people from enjoying free camping. It's the BEST! Thanks for stating your position and calling attention to this issue...✌🙌
It sounds like staying at a caravan park, or RV park in the USA, is a smart thing to do a couple times a month. Filling up your water, doing laundry, a thorough van cleaning using the shore power, loooonngg showers all would be worth the extra expense!
We camped or stayed in cabins at caravan parks when our kids were little, last time was 10 years ago. The kids loved it and enjoyed making new friends. Some places were fantastic, others dreadful. We went to different beaches each year, the only time we could have more than a day at a beach in Summer. Some parks with permanent residents were great, over the Summer holidays the residents would run a kitchen for the tourists, child friendly meals, ice creams. It paid for their social activities in the off season. Nowadays, I'd love to get an off grid trailer like ezytrail so we could camp off grid with solar power. Just waiting for my workaholic husband to agree!
We live in our motorhome in England and don't have much of an off grid setup, just 100w solar and one 100ah battery and no inverter. We used to free camp but only for one night at a time, but never felt comfortable, so we stay on small five van sites with no facilities apart from a hookup and Elsen point for emptying cassette toilet, and of course water. These small sites tend to be between £15 to £20 per night. We watch you and people in America where you have so much more room than us and of course the weather. Thank you for a great video.
That Mr Algorithm sure is finicky. I'm one of your OG subs and your videos haven't been on my feed for I'd say a good couple weeks! I figured you were just still off the radar being super remote. I was so excited to see this thumbnail and tag along with you and your best mate. Greetings from Toronto where we're having our first snowfall. 🌬❄️☃️
Occy, sportin’ the lid at 12:33. Fabulous.
Just the king, living his life 🙌🏼
Your point about caravan manufacturers not offering modern off grid technology is on point!
There’s always a snobbery involved in boating/vanning, until one realises the ‘luxury’ afforded by a campsite or marina. Yes, it’s great to be able to live off grid in your chosen preference, but honestly both have their benefits and everyone sometimes needs the power/benefits of being on a site. I’m so glad to see it when people change their opinion. Thank you Max, I love your updates. H xx
Agree 100%!
Thank you for taking us on another adventure! The marvels of all the oceans have to offer is breath taking! We do off grid camping in Alberta Canada. It’s sooo great to find that perfect spot to unwind without worrying about the size of your camp fire, what time it is that everyone is still enjoying said camp fire! 😂 learning to be off grid is great living tool! We do both though depending on what type of trip we are looking for, because as you say there are many advantages! Stay safe and thanks again ❤
Such a thrill seeing the way the dolphins seem to connect. The whales from a couple of vids ago were pretty awesome too - especially when the baby seemed to be waving!
Thank you for sharing your experiences, your genuine sweetness and honesty, and your creativity. Nature is the best medicine. 🐶
Max, I completely agree that caravan manufacturers seem to go all out for building ‘off road’ capable caravans and campers, but give them measly power options. They seem to be stuck in the lat century and it’s now 2022. We do the mix of mostly off grid with occasional caravan parks. Some of the best caravan park options from our perspective are in small WA wheatbelt towns. They are very cheap, with basic facilities so that you can do washing, have long showers and fill up with water for the next stage of your trip. There might be a nearby pub for an evening meal and a small but well stocked supermarket. They are usually run by local councils to bring travellers into town, without having to make a profit from the caravan park itself.
That is by far the best caravan park I've ever seen. It looks clean too
I think it is just great that you are so open about your mental health and promoting it. You r a wonderful genuine man & love watching ur channel.
Thank you so much Brenda 💛 Really appreciate your kind words, have a lovely week!
Always a pleasure to spend time with you and Occy on Sundays! Have an awesome week!
Thanks Monica, hope you have a great week too! 💛
Very very very true about the van cost!
We build a van in UK 2 years ago and it’s a solid system to go off grid for long. Cost around 30K! We are now in BC, Canada and wanted to build a other one… nightmare! Just to buy a cargo van now it’s 70-100K with nothing in it! It’s absolutely ridiculous how it became a sadly to expensive to live free on the road!
Absolutely agree with the lack of cost effective option for caravans. Thanks for bringing this up
Definitely an issue! I was at Cronulla, a few weeks ago, watching a surf comp and there were a few vans for sale.
I was checking them all out and was like “umm these “fancy” vans are expensive for not being off grid ” and was explaining to my mum everything I would like and want in a van and that I feel like I’d have to diy it.
How did I get this knowledge and opinions?
Watching the amazing people, like you, on RUclips 🎉 Thank you for making videos for us to gain knowledge and showing us the world with your best mate 👌🏼
👍 Another cool video, Max! ❤ the wild dolphins 🐬, Dugong encounters, roaming emus at your campsite and, as always, Occy 🐾. Your assessment of the paid RV parks and RV industry is right on, especially when they're gigantic mansions on wheels with 3 TVs, constant AC, dishwasher, 1.5 bath setups with leaded batteries and little to no solar. They're hooked up to paid RV parks all the time or useless. I was obsessed with Leisure Travel vans before but after seeing yours and other vans built channels, I'm an absolute convert and think this is the best way to go! 🏞🏜🏖
I agree with you Max. Even here in Canada, we have amazing campsites or RV Parks, but some of them are just too loud and crowded. I'm a purest and prefer off grid, but sometimes it just isn't possible. Great video. Occy is a champ!
I enjoyed the dolphins. I swam with them when i was in Cuba. It was the most amazing thing 💗😊🐾
A dugong in the United States is called a manatee. Some call them sea cows.
I have been for 12 years part time vanlifer( spring/summer/fall) but always mixed it up with camping,hotel winter and over seas travel. I Enjoy the mixture! Great vedio! Love ❤ the Dolphins 🐬 thank you for the ride:))))))
Caravan parks are good for Occy, what a great idea. Love the ostriches!!!
We love off grid camping and choose to whenever possible. Generally we will go into a caravan park once a week to top up water, power and do the washing. Otherwise off grid all the way. You meet more incredible people in off grid camping too.
A mix of off-grid and sites is definitely the right balance. With more off-grid of course! 😘
Hey, Max! Thank you for another great video. I always enjoy seeing your wildlife encounters especially when Occy is along for the experience 🥰
As for the caravan park/RV issue: I've seen the RV/motorhome industry impact our state parks as many are now being forced to invest in updating their power outlets to accommodate the power draw needed by the bigger units being sold and pushed by the industry. I've seen a lot of rigs with several AC units and larger TVs and appliances, and with hotter summers, it's a real draw on the park power grids. I do love seeing more people out there enjoying nature (great for mental well-being ❤️) and supporting our state parks so there's definitely plusses and minuses to this. Also, more people unfortunately means more trash and damage to these locations, which is painful to see. Our bus does pretty well off-grid during the colder months but we're still working on getting her off-grid in the summer. For now, we plan to drive where it's (hopefully) cooler to get away from the heat.
Much love to you guys! Take care and safe and fun travels 🥰
Hey Mel! You raise a great point there regarding the fact that the type of luxury appliances being included in some of the new RV’s (as paid extras I’m sure) is also prohibitive to going off grid (and result in huge power draws).
Hopefully there is a push to more 12v accessories at least..
I bet your school bus is a beast! 💛
Love your videos and I think it great that you have opened up about mental health and the struggles people can have with it and what you can do about it. You seem to be in a much better place...physically and mentally.
One way for viewers to “beat” the algorithm is simply to click over to Subscriptions rather than staying g on the main feed that RUclips sends you to. Since we subscribe to creators, it only makes sense to head straight there to follow our favorites! Also, notifications help as well. Love you and Occy and your channel!
Definitely agree!! Moderation, balance, and options are so necessary👍👍💕🐾🇨🇦🇦🇺
Max, wish you all the best buddy, you sharing your adventures brings joy to so many! Cheers from the States!
Thanks mate! 💛
The dolphins, occy, and the calmness of that water🥹🤍🤍
All caravan and mobile home retailers are a complete rip off. Great video, well balanced video. Occy was as cool as ever.
💯 agree about the ongoing money making relationship between major van makers and big parks! Campers being packed in like sardines. Free camp sites are our go to for better locations would only use big chain parks as last minute back up.
Weather conditions are causing issues with free camp stays (boggy or flooding if near rivers or creeks) which can be long drives between other locations if you can’t find a parking spot.
Thanks, for this inspirational video.The Beauty & Benefits of Van Life ,beautiful ocean ,traveling sight seeing ,meeting amazing like minded people.Awesome Caravan Camping.Happy Birthday; Sam ,Blessings to you Max, Occy ,& Team ,new friends. Amen! 🙏❤🙏😇🤗
This is such a throwback to when I was in Monkey Mia! Stayed at the same campsite and did the same boat trip!
Agree w/ finding your own personal balance between "wild time" and "recharge time" 😄 I've always admired the style of videos that you create -- and just thinking, it'd be super cool -- if during one of your "recharge caravan park" stints, you could do a video talking about your equipment, why you chose it, and B-roll some of the shots you create. 🤔 I especially love, your surfing and underwater shots. Do you do some of those with a waterproof Go-pro on your head? Super curious. Also, would love to see a video on how you do your music - video editing and how much time something like that takes. I think you are especially talented with those segments. 🙂Just an idea! Blessings to you and Oc!
Great vlog. Appreciate you talking about Men's Mental Health 😊
Love my Sunday mornings with your videos!
Beautiful, thanks for sharing…God bless you and Occy❤❤❤
you forgot to show that the ecoflow wave needs an exhaust and intake hose attached to the back, a completely space hogging unit for a small van, much better and more efficient to have a roof mounted AC. I love how the website even fails to show the hoses.
What a warm and open vibe you and Occy give off. Enjoy the insights into caravan parks and the mega caravan view too.
What a fun vlog. How amazing to have the dolphins swimming around your board.
Hey Max, all these animals and marine life are so attracted to you, amazing, emus are extremely curious, funny to watch. Give me off grid any day over caravan parks, many vans are now being kitted out after purchase for off grid travel, my concern will be our overlords of bureaucrats will start putting in more nanny rules, and councils will lawlessly fine Aussies with their bi and tri laws of every description. I counted the word reset four times Max in your video, that’s a very touchy word currently for many.😢 My cousin raved about monkey Mia 30 years ago, I see why! ❤ Yachts and catamarans aren’t kitted out much either unless you ask and pay extra for it, supply and demand is changing this overall. Eco flow must be thriving.
I saw the utility of caravan parks while backpacking (tramping) through NZ. It was great to have a hot shower, wash clothes, and reset. Since we had our own backpacking stove, it took us a while to see that the kitchens were a good place to chat with folks and get good info about the local area, conditions, trails, etc. I enjoyed staying in caravan parks when we went to Australia and just had a vehicle. The little cabins were plenty for our needs and we were closer to nature, enjoying some lovely birds serenading us. Now that we have a van, we do have off-grid capability and love it.
There are so many great camping spots in Tassie...that don't have concrete slabs, just sites nestled amongst the trees with sandy ground under foot. Surely too there's the safety aspect..even in Australia. Nothing scarier than boondocking and having a car turn up in the middle of the night. I'd much rather my kids start their driving and camping experiences on the road amongst other like minded people and enjoy the social side it brings with it. Places like Coles Bay and Bruny Island are full of younger, like minded people.also, I might add, it's easier for us down here to go somewhere remote so maybe it's not as much of a novelty 🤣
100% agree Max shopping for a van at the moment.$100k vans with 100 amp agm and 1 solar panel.
We call it boon docking here in the US. We used to take our rv off grid even without solar, the engine or generator to charge the battery or provide electric for needed items and use as little as needed. However we weren’t living in our setup just weekend and longer trips. Hookups are nice if your staying extended times out and a nice convenient option. It all depends on your motive, we wanted to be secluded, just us and nature.
I love it when the ocean life comes up to you and o c c y. It's like they're not even nervous. And o c c y is so calm. He's a good boy. And he's so cute!! I agree with you about the Parks some are wonderful and some are not. I love your videos I can't wait to see the next one. I just think it's amazing seeing y'all on that little board with all those big dolphins and whales.
What a beautiful caravan park. I think you gave a very balance view of off grid and where the caravan park can be an asset. Of course, your time on the water and the water life we were able to see is superb again. Love getting to see Occy enjoying himself even if he wanted to protect from those big birds. LOL
I want you know that watching your videos brings me inexpressible joy and a vastly deeper appreciation for the good in people. This is the best content on RUclips imho. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
These videos just make my heart sing. You and Occy are a gift. I most likely will never see Australia, and even if I do, I won’t see it like this. I don’t think I’d have the guts to do a solo van life experience, but at least I get to experience it through your videos. Thank you!
From an increasingly chilly Autumn in SW England, our Van lives are very different ! And yet very similar …. though it was squirrels running past my van yesterday not birds that big 😮
Thank you for your kindness to animals 😍