After my hip replacement surgery I lived in my Scion xB for 7 months before going back to work as a trucker. I'm now retired and living in my 2016 Ford Transit van with a high roof.
Mel is such a sweet young lady! I have been following van and car dweller RUclips channels for about 10 years and Mel amazes me with how minimal she keeps it while being perfectly content. She has everything thought out and neatly organized. Great interview Jimmy!
she is so laid back and very down to earth. More minimal than myself. I really enjoyed this video thanks. And a lot of folks seem tired, she looks so rested, and comfortable.
I used to make fun of the "square car" like a box as shown in the video, but somehow one day I have a different thought about the Scion XB, turned out I kind of like the car. To me it looks more stable and I think the space inside the car is broader than the other small cars. First I kind of hate to see it on the road, but then after a while I start to like it. And I am looking to buy 1 for my home on the road kind of car because I am about to leave my brother's property and start living in my car rather. It's kind of fun to look at this car !
Great interview Jimmy with Mel.. She seems really sweet and she is very smart.. Love the way you arranged everything in your cute little car.. Everything has it place and the bed looks so comfy.. Smart thinking living in your car... most young people do this and work and save money... I see nothing wrong with that.. Smart thinking Mel!!! Jimmy and Mel have fun traveling together at least you have each other to keep you company, good conversation, and watching each others back... smart thinking Jimmy and Mel!!!. That was so sweet Olive waiting patiently on you 2 while interviewing..
Nice cozy little set up..shes got it going on..good for her...I often think about trading my conversion van for a mini van just for the gas mileage and ease of engine repair..after seeing Bob's build of that mini van I'm almost sold..thx for sharing Jimmy✌❤😊
I have a Kia Soul so this appeals to me. While I’ve spent a week in it in cities with no issues, I haven’t removed any seats yet. Watching this tour makes me more comfortable with the thought. Thank you for a most informative info-tour. Mel is practical, and I appreciate her thoroughness as she shared, without unnecessary chit chat, just pertinent facts. I stopped several times to add items she mentioned to my list of things I may get and I’m saving this video to review when the time comes. I love that Mel doesn’t buy into the hype of needing everting that’s out there ie. solar, boxes etc. She exemplifies what I want minimalism and simplicity. All the best to both of you.
Excellent interview & interviewer. Thank you. I love how you let her talk and got good close ups of what she was explaining. Very creative woman. Really nice set up. Again..... Thank you
I drive a red 2006 xB. My kids and grandkids call it Teta's xBox. (My grandma name is Teta.) I love it! I see more of them here in AZ than when we're up north.
Great video and safe travels to the young lady! Last month while camping at the Rio Grande Gorge north of Taos, NM, I camped next to a lady who lives full-time in a VW Bug that she bought new in 1968. I met her for the first time 9 years ago, but this time I got to spend a good amount of time talking with her. I think she’s been doing this for decades...
Just Mel , she’s very interesting and maybe slightly eccentric. I’m sure she could settle into a retirement community as I think she’s at least 80, but she has always been an adventurer.
Three Dogs and a Camper , Oh my gosh‼️ That is amazing. I had a new Bug in ‘68. Great car but...... she must be in great shape and tiny. 🤪 I have no idea how she could sleep unless it’s sitting up, and I couldn’t get into the back seat now cause if I did I couldn’t get out 🤣🤣🤣
@@wanderingjimmy1957 re: the Bug, I used to have a lot of books about living cheaply one, whose first chapter was how to do that (and by necessity I had to do that once, NOT comfortable at ALL) but when we had an earthquake in L.A. the cupboards in our carport broke off and who ever repaired them put the contents in the wrong cupboards and they all went missing, despite signs in the complex I posted, never got them back, of course now with youtube and the internet you don't need it. It is too bad that she has no channel would like to see how she makes a living (PS, the number ONE topic that people living in their car talk about IS the toilet BTW!!) but also I have a galpal who is almost 6 ft tall and over 200 lbs-(she looked she might be a little larger in the video), wanted to ask her if that was about her size, becuz my friend is about that and always makes jokes about camping in her Bug and I want her to message her to tell her it CAN be done.
Thanks. What a grand idea ..... trying living in it for a week before actually building the interior permanently. I hadn't thought of that. I have a scion and would love to try this now that the weather is cool. You didn't mention the great gas mileage you get. Probably twice or more than that of the interviewer's van. :) However I couldn't visualize how you can stretch out to sleep in such a short van with the passenger seat still upright.
Thank you. I look for videos about living out of or living in a car and there aren’t too many. It was a relief to find this. I am much older than you but have been researching it for about 2 years. I have an older car in good shape also. I’m not afraid to do it. I’ve done weekends. But thank you. It’s good to know there are others out there.
Shes so right about fears. Ive camped solo for years & loved it. You use good sense & have confidence & you are fine. Love the idea of the alarm though. Good thinking. I have used the 2 chair trick but had more space because of sleeping in my tent. Good for her.
Thanks for introducing me to Mel. I’m going to go to her channel. She is a Campground Host in Washington right now, right? I loved the shot of your two vehicles next to each other.
@Just Mel Hi Mel, your setup is very nice. Thanks for showing that water heating device. I'd never even heard of such a thing and I have to have my hot tea, so that would be perfect. Take care and thanks again.
Fantastic interview, I love the banter and Mel's attitude! If she ever makes it to the Southwest (Albuquerque) I'll treat her to dinner; and thank her for the awesome tips and ingenuity with the Toaster. I'll be sure to incorporate a lot for my build in a small SUV. Happy trails, Mel 😀
I have a micro camper xB myself with different layout. I did Portland OR - L.A.- Las Vegas - Grand Canyon - Salt Lake City - Yellowstone - Portland OR in 10 days. It was a cool experience.
I am so bummed she is no longer making videos . I have been searching a way to find her since it appeard her channel had shut down, and then remembered i *found* her here on your channel so finally!!!! found her,,,, sort of. :( yea, i guess ;) i respect her decision, but dang, just a few here and there wouldnt hurt would it :( ????? All the best Mel, i miss you.
I would definitely invest in a winch could be the hand held type or a electric but just have one with a jump starter that you can plug into the lighter cause I use to have problems getting stuck both in dirt and dead battery
Found the first Video of Mels. Yes, she is a cool gal. Thank you for sharing her snuffy home. Trader Joe’s are great. Whole Foods works for me, although they are much more expensive. Hassle Free is the best way to live anywhere. Love what you share with us Jimmy. Hugs to you sugar. Still can’t wait to get down the road. 🌺
I asked that also on his other vlog with Mel. She posted something mid day Friday about taking some time to finish that house project she was working on for her family but I didnt get to watch the whole thing at the time. When I sat down to finish watching it her channel later in the day it was gone. I enjoyed her random vlogs and hope she comes back. Sorry Jimmy no dis to you we love your vlogs also and appreciate you introducing her to us in this medium!
Melind Gorder Thank you for the update Mel! I too hope to be a traveler next year sometime. Perhaps our paths will cross some day. Wishing you well in whatever you choose to do.
Thalia , sorry about your condition. I wonder if you’ve watched livinglifewithletty on UT. Know your issues are not the same nor your physical limitations, but Letty Tippins is inspirational and you may find a way ❣️ Good luck to you👍💕
Mel is very young to be living like this. Fascinating & sad at the same time. Not sure how to feel here - yet. Olive was ready for attention! Enjoyed your video. Sometimes when a person is this young, do you ever question what brought them to choose this lifestyle? There's nothing wrong with her choice. This is her - but - I'm curious too.
@Just Mel OMG I would never have guessed you to be 40! Maybe mid to late 20's was more the impression I got for 1st time I see you via you tube. I am sorry if I offended you in any way. That was not my intention. Have a poppin' good fourth! (I would send a card to different ones with a bag of microwaveable popcorn in it & this greeting I sent to you.)
@Melind Gorder so glad you are OK, was worried when you just disappeared , hope all is going well for you, looking forward to you becoming nomadic again.
Excellent video once again. Thank you so much. Only such a pity that the lady's speaking volume is SO MUCH lower than Jimmy's. Very difficult to listen. But still, thank you!
She’s amazing. This just goes to show us....we can do anything we want to do.....or need to do. Enjoyed. 👍👍❣️
Where did u get that security alarm?
Elaine Mcnary, where there is a will there is a way and when we need to make away, we will.
Barbara Peller I agree 100%. Mel’s doing a great job.👍
You are a very beautiful woman
You are far more than welcome young lady
Mel has a Great attitude toward her chosen lifestyle.
After my hip replacement surgery I lived in my Scion xB for 7 months before going back to work as a trucker. I'm now retired and living in my 2016 Ford Transit van with a high roof.
That's good that your okay I retired from trucking after 5 years otr even tho I have my CDL still.
Mel is such a sweet young lady! I have been following van and car dweller RUclips channels for about 10 years and Mel amazes me with how minimal she keeps it while being perfectly content. She has everything thought out and neatly organized. Great interview Jimmy!
she is so laid back and very down to earth. More minimal than myself. I really enjoyed this video thanks. And a lot of folks seem tired, she looks so rested, and comfortable.
We got to meet you Mel! I think I have to minimize even more! I'm still hanging on to things and every bit we get rid of frees us up! Thanks Jimmy!
@Just Mel me too! In doing what I want by prepping for full time nomad I've lost some. Probably from the stress of getting it done. 🆘
That's pretty cool. I'm always surprised by what people live in. It's a fantastic setup she has there.
Also, back into your campsite so you can quickly leave if needed.
I used to make fun of the "square car" like a box as shown in the video, but somehow one day I have a different thought about the Scion XB, turned out I kind of like the car. To me it looks more stable and I think the space inside the car is broader than the other small cars. First I kind of hate to see it on the road, but then after a while I start to like it. And I am looking to buy 1 for my home on the road kind of car because I am about to leave my brother's property and start living in my car rather. It's kind of fun to look at this car !
Great interview Jimmy with Mel.. She seems really sweet and she is very smart.. Love the way you arranged everything in your cute little car.. Everything has it place and the bed looks so comfy.. Smart thinking living in your car... most young people do this and work and save money... I see nothing wrong with that.. Smart thinking Mel!!! Jimmy and Mel have fun traveling together at least you have each other to keep you company, good conversation, and watching each others back... smart thinking Jimmy and Mel!!!. That was so sweet Olive waiting patiently on you 2 while interviewing..
Mel and her toaster are fantastic! Such a great attitude towards life and what works for her. I loved your comment, Jimmy, “mini me”. 😂
What a great lady,ive been living the van life since 1975,,keep living your dreams.
Right on girl! As for me, I'm 56, work 40 hour week and live in my Montero. It's not exactly wonderful but I make it work.
“ITS HIP TO BE SQUARE!” 🙌🏽☺️
Just Mel 🙌🏽❤️🥰
Lovely woman and her car setup is very cool. Thanks
She seems a lovely girl good luck to her
I travel 6 months of the yr full time in my Kia Soul and love it...! It’s awesome I wouldn’t trade it for anything
fabYOUlous Mel! You are so self sufficient and make the best use of your space and your stuff! So organized... thanks for sharing!
Nice cozy little set up..shes got it going on..good for her...I often think about trading my conversion van for a mini van just for the gas mileage and ease of engine repair..after seeing Bob's build of that mini van I'm almost sold..thx for sharing Jimmy✌❤😊
Mel has decided to focus on other endeavors and stop making YT videos. I personally hope she changes her mind but certainly respect her decision.
I really enjoyed her calm easy way about her. Hope she changes her mind :)
Jimmy thanks for letting us know. I too hope Mel comes back as I really enjoyed her updates, scenery and gentle soul xo
I was looking for her, sad not to see her updates. Hope all is well in her world.
Good!
@Melind Gorder YaY welcome back 🙋 looking forward to seeing your updates soon xo be well 💓
Wow!! Love her minimalist style. Took a few notes for my lil chevy Cruze that I stealth camp in. Thanks for sharing!!
I have a Kia Soul so this appeals to me. While I’ve spent a week in it in cities with no issues, I haven’t removed any seats yet. Watching this tour makes me more comfortable with the thought. Thank you for a most informative info-tour. Mel is practical, and I appreciate her thoroughness as she shared, without unnecessary chit chat, just pertinent facts. I stopped several times to add items she mentioned to my list of things I may get and I’m saving this video to review when the time comes. I love that Mel doesn’t buy into the hype of needing everting that’s out there ie. solar, boxes etc. She exemplifies what I want minimalism and simplicity. All the best to both of you.
Nice interview Jimmy, I first lived in my Kia Soul before getting my BIG ford transit connect! Have a great summer, see you down the road.
Just Mel is just awesome. Thank you for introducing us to her-safe travels
She is very organized. Nice set up.
I was correct Jimmy, your friend does have spunk! Love the set up... Just Mel ♥️ thank you for sharing you home...
Excellent interview & interviewer. Thank you. I love how you let her talk and got good close ups of what she was explaining. Very creative woman. Really nice set up. Again..... Thank you
What a cool young lady! Thanks for sharing her setup & her personality really came through. 💖
In that Scion you can actually just remove all headrest and lay all seats down and it turns into a full bed .
I drive a red 2006 xB. My kids and grandkids call it Teta's xBox. (My grandma name is Teta.) I love it! I see more of them here in AZ than when we're up north.
Great video and safe travels to the young lady! Last month while camping at the Rio Grande Gorge north of Taos, NM, I camped next to a lady who lives full-time in a VW Bug that she bought new in 1968. I met her for the first time 9 years ago, but this time I got to spend a good amount of time talking with her. I think she’s been doing this for decades...
Oh wow! Amazing.
Just Mel , she’s very interesting and maybe slightly eccentric. I’m sure she could settle into a retirement community as I think she’s at least 80, but she has always been an adventurer.
I would love to see a video on her. Those cars are my fave.
Three Dogs and a Camper ,
Oh my gosh‼️ That is amazing. I had a new Bug in ‘68. Great car but...... she must be in great shape and tiny. 🤪
I have no idea how she could sleep unless it’s sitting up, and I couldn’t get into the back seat now cause if I did I couldn’t get out 🤣🤣🤣
@@wanderingjimmy1957 re: the Bug, I used to have a lot of books about living cheaply one, whose first chapter was how to do that (and by necessity I had to do that once, NOT comfortable at ALL) but when we had an earthquake in L.A. the cupboards in our carport broke off and who ever repaired them put the contents in the wrong cupboards and they all went missing, despite signs in the complex I posted, never got them back, of course now with youtube and the internet you don't need it. It is too bad that she has no channel would like to see how she makes a living (PS, the number ONE topic that people living in their car talk about IS the toilet BTW!!) but also I have a galpal who is almost 6 ft tall and over 200 lbs-(she looked she might be a little larger in the video), wanted to ask her if that was about her size, becuz my friend is about that and always makes jokes about camping in her Bug and I want her to message her to tell her it CAN be done.
Thanks. What a grand idea ..... trying living in it for a week before actually building the interior permanently. I hadn't thought of that. I have a scion and would love to try this now that the weather is cool. You didn't mention the great gas mileage you get. Probably twice or more than that of the interviewer's van. :) However I couldn't visualize how you can stretch out to sleep in such a short van with the passenger seat still upright.
Thank you. I look for videos about living out of or living in a car and there aren’t too many. It was a relief to find this. I am much older than you but have been researching it for about 2 years. I have an older car in good shape also. I’m not afraid to do it. I’ve done weekends. But thank you. It’s good to know there are others out there.
there are many van life videos maria look harder haha
Your friend seems really nice!!🌼 I love her setup! Velcro is a great idea!! Wishing you both happy travels!💚🌼💚
Shes so right about fears. Ive camped solo for years & loved it. You use good sense & have confidence & you are fine. Love the idea of the alarm though. Good thinking. I have used the 2 chair trick but had more space because of sleeping in my tent. Good for her.
Yes as solo female I've used the two chair trick for years.
Whats the 2 chair trick?
@@pollyfoofoo8703 set two chairs out to appear you aren't solo.
@@pollyfoofoo8703 You put out 2 folding chairs around the fire and throw a shirt or jacket that looks like a big guy would wear it. Simple & easy.
Thanks for introducing me to Mel. I’m going to go to her channel. She is a Campground Host in Washington right now, right? I loved the shot of your two vehicles next to each other.
Kathi Foy Hi Kathi! Yes, she is.
Loved this video! What a smart young lady! I wish her the best of luck in her travels.
@Just Mel Hi Mel, your setup is very nice. Thanks for showing that water heating device. I'd never even heard of such a thing and I have to have my hot tea, so that would be perfect. Take care and thanks again.
I have this car and I would not DARE live in it. Props to you girl😩
🤦🏽♀️😂
Thanks for all the tips and will definitely subscribe to Mels channel too.
I’m so proud of you Mel, you’ve got it all figured out!😊
Hi Mel, well done Jimmy!
That was super informative! Thanks Jimmy!
Curious...what did you do with the seats you took out?
Fantastic interview, I love the banter and Mel's attitude! If she ever makes it to the Southwest (Albuquerque) I'll treat her to dinner; and thank her for the awesome tips and ingenuity with the Toaster. I'll be sure to incorporate a lot for my build in a small SUV. Happy trails, Mel 😀
this reminds me of the nissan cube, which i so wish they didn’t discontinue. i love the look of boxy cars and how much space they have.
Little Olive was so sweet and patient.....good video
I’d rather do this than live in a claustrophobic townhouse community.
So you rather live in a claustrophobic vehicle? 🤔
S Gordon it’s not as claustrophobic. Atleast she can walk around outside without people everywhere...
Shitting at McDonald's
And boy do I hate HOAs!!!
Nice job I like the set up can't wait to do mine let me ask you what about the Spare tire
I have a micro camper xB myself with different layout. I did Portland OR - L.A.- Las Vegas - Grand Canyon - Salt Lake City - Yellowstone - Portland OR in 10 days. It was a cool experience.
Thank you Mell. Blessings
I am so bummed she is no longer making videos . I have been searching a way to find her since it appeard her channel had shut down, and then remembered i *found* her here on your channel so finally!!!! found her,,,, sort of. :( yea, i guess ;) i respect her decision, but dang, just a few here and there wouldnt hurt would it :( ????? All the best Mel, i miss you.
Do those mattress toppers really help to cool? I find memory foam very hot to sleep on.
this video was a God send, Jimmy. thank you. I too won a Scion. Exactly like Mel's. only diff. is mine is black. She gave me a great ideas! whoooo!
Judith G. In Europe we use the internet to send RUclips-films, but in the US it is send by god?!??
I'm starting research, I have a Kia Soul and can't wait. What do you do for work/money?
That is my biggest issue
Cara Willis I travel ft 6 months of the yr in my Kia Soul and love it... good luck hope to see ya down the road
Great Set up Mel
Thanks for sharing
Yea for Jimmy. -10K!!!!
I'd be interested when she gets her channel! It's not up as of November 2019
👏LOL it does look like your van had a baby👍🚙🌿🌻💛🌿
what is her channel? I would love to hear more.
Can't find Justmel's channel. There's one in a different language though.
Where to get the food bag??
Thanks Jimmy for sharing your wonderful visit with Mel, be safe traveling, love ya ❤️🥰🇨🇦
Wow. I enjoyed this. Thank you for sharing. God Bless this lady. She is so humble and kind. 🙏🌟😇
Mel seem so sweet, I've fallen in love with Schion recently so it's cool to see that she created a home out of it.
the 12v water heater for coffee etc contains lead
😮
Does it come with a shower
I would definitely invest in a winch could be the hand held type or a electric but just have one with a jump starter that you can plug into the lighter cause I use to have problems getting stuck both in dirt and dead battery
Thank you for this video, very nice simple setup that seems to work. Happy trails, safe journeys and be blessed
It's always exciting to see how someone makes their home in a tiny space like that! Seems very cozy.. peace
Jimmy...I just love your voice! 🤭 Kudos to you Just Mel!! Love to you both 💌
Great car! I have one, I did the Van life years ago, good times.
Very nice set up. Thank you for the tour.
Found the first Video of Mels. Yes, she is a cool gal.
Thank you for sharing her snuffy home.
Trader Joe’s are great.
Whole Foods works for me, although they are much more expensive.
Hassle Free is the best way to live anywhere.
Love what you share with us Jimmy.
Hugs to you sugar. Still can’t wait to get down the road.
🌺
Good interview and tour Jimmy, thanks.
What happened to Mel's channel? Do you know? I was watching them and then said it was shut down....
Now I started to watch Casey Roman and On the plus side, love both channels. If you liked Mel, kind of like hers.
I asked that also on his other vlog with Mel. She posted something mid day Friday about taking some time to finish that house project she was working on for her family but I didnt get to watch the whole thing at the time. When I sat down to finish watching it her channel later in the day it was gone. I enjoyed her random vlogs and hope she comes back. Sorry Jimmy no dis to you we love your vlogs also and appreciate you introducing her to us in this medium!
@@aspenlamotte212 thanks
Melind Gorder Thank you for the update Mel! I too hope to be a traveler next year sometime. Perhaps our paths will cross some day. Wishing you well in whatever you choose to do.
how did you stop the alarm going off when the doors are locked
Nice minimal setup! Thanks for sharing!
Mel love you!! You are so chill!
Thanks for the tour. Very inspiring. We need so little to be happy and content.
Thanks for the tour!
Awesome! But I still want that tour when I see you, Mel!
@Livin' the Life Lindy hope so, too.
I'm in a small car as well. Toyota Corolla. 3 years so far around the country and loving it
Great video! Just wondering where do you sleep at night?
Good to meet Mel. Will add her channel. Thanks for sharing. Be safe.
I really love her attitude, I wish she was still making videos.
i have done this to my hardbody longbed nissan truck, id love to do it with my xb as well thanks for posting this video . gave me lots of neat ideas.
I have a bright green 2006 model (like hers) and I LOVE IT! Tons of space!
real nice video.... what a gal :) Sure has a lot going for her in the confidence department for sure.
Thank you for sharing and Mel you’re awesome 💯🌺
A awesome tiny car she has see yah Jimmy an olive hugs always
If I didn't have musculoskeletal issues I'd probably give it a go, just to pay off my debt and save.
Thalia , sorry about your condition. I wonder if you’ve watched livinglifewithletty on UT. Know your issues are not the same nor your physical limitations, but Letty Tippins is inspirational and you may find a way ❣️
Good luck to you👍💕
Amazing set up in your vehicle.Well planned out every inch.Good for you 👍
I couldn’t quite tell: did Mel remove the passenger seat?
I was wondering if someone could boondock in one of these cars. I’ve seen them often in my city.
Love the minimalism😍
Mel is very young to be living like this. Fascinating & sad at the same time. Not sure how to feel here - yet. Olive was ready for attention! Enjoyed your video. Sometimes when a person is this young, do you ever question what brought them to choose this lifestyle? There's nothing wrong with her choice. This is her - but - I'm curious too.
@Just Mel OMG I would never have guessed you to be 40! Maybe mid to late 20's was more the impression I got for 1st time I see you via you tube. I am sorry if I offended you in any way. That was not my intention. Have a poppin' good fourth! (I would send a card to different ones with a bag of microwaveable popcorn in it & this greeting I sent to you.)
Just Mel wait ,seriously you are turning 40? Well I’m going to need a copy of your fountain of youth recipe stat!! 😮
1 Timothy 4:12
I had one of those 06 xB cars got it new didn't drive it much
do you know where she went, her channel is just gone?
@Melind Gorder so glad you are OK, was worried when you just disappeared , hope all is going well for you, looking forward to you becoming nomadic again.
I love her set up so neat. I could live in that. My thing would be i need heat & air.
I have to have a home, with a garden, a backyard for Barbecuing and hanging with friends and family; to each is own, but this lil lady needs a home 🏠
What a very cool friend! Thanks for sharing her.
Me too Just Mel! 😎
Excellent video once again. Thank you so much. Only such a pity that the lady's speaking volume is SO MUCH lower than Jimmy's. Very difficult to listen. But still, thank you!