How much does Van Life cost? Monthly expenses

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  • Опубликовано: 4 окт 2024
  • I break down how much I spent living in my camper van for a month in Florida #campervan #solofemalevanlife #seniornomad #vanlife #vanliving #budget
    Sticker Lady Kym ‪@OutonaLimbwithKym‬
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Комментарии • 131

  • @RUTHSOFFGRID
    @RUTHSOFFGRID 7 месяцев назад +16

    I always love to see the breakdown on expenses. Imagine how you'll be able to budget when van's paid off!

  • @BookMama72
    @BookMama72 Месяц назад +2

    This is so helpful! Thank you!

  • @scottmorton5379
    @scottmorton5379 7 месяцев назад +5

    I’m a part timer, have a cabin in Arkansas, gas is by far my biggest expense, but I do make long trips. Moab Utah, Colorado, and The Outer Banks in a month . My Ram truck uses a lot of gas, but I love the power to pull my camper when I take it.
    You are a doll, take care.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      A cabin sounds wonderful! The Outer Banks to Utah.. that is a long trip! Sounds like you're hauling a lot, too. My van is the shortest wheel base they come. Someday I'd like to upgrade 😊

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      A cabin sounds wonderful! The Outer Banks to Utah.. that is a long trip! Sounds like you're hauling a lot, too. My van is the shortest wheel base they come. Someday I'd like to upgrade 😊

  • @OutonaLimbwithKym
    @OutonaLimbwithKym 7 месяцев назад +8

    LMAO!!! Sophie!!!!! Now THAT'S real vanlife!!!! Thanks for the shout out!! I enjoyed this video very much. And look at you go, Michele. Over 2k subs. I'm loving this so much.

  • @karenebarker9244
    @karenebarker9244 7 месяцев назад +6

    You are so right that RV and Van life can be a reasonable or super expensive. My husband and I travel full time on pensions and are mostly frugal. Rarely eat out and enjoy free entertainment and nature activities. Only souvenirs are magnets or stickers. We live in shorts and T Shirts. We are vegetarians so no costly meat on the menu. There are lots of ways to enjoy this lifestyle but we choose to keep our investments growing and live within our means. Way to go Michele!

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +1

      This sounds wonderful, Karene! I like to live frugally and only splurge on occasion. I also don't eat meat and am going on 25 years meat free this summer! I can't imagine how expensive my groceries would be. Living within our means is such a smart thing to do 😊

  • @hadeev
    @hadeev 5 месяцев назад +4

    My car payment and rent combined are $1,130.00. Then there’s food, insurance and other expenses. I’m 62 years old, single, and an artist as well. I can’t figure out how to become self-sufficient, without having to work full-time, and not apply for Social Security until I’m at least 65 years old. I sell my originals, and haven’t a clue regarding having prints made. That would be a game-changer for me, in terms of generating a third income stream. My goal is to own a fixer-upper and a travel vehicle to camp in and create art from. How are some of my fellow creatives making their dreams come true?

    • @Artsylady2030
      @Artsylady2030 5 месяцев назад +1

      I am an artist also you can get prints made at VISTA PRINT.....also you can get your SSI and still work .....then you get all the $$$ you are owed plus you can still make extra....Call SSI and ask how much you can make per month ....but you should get your SSI at 62 years old.....don't let them rip you off by waiting....

  • @Twilight_Charger
    @Twilight_Charger Месяц назад +1

    I'm converting a Sprinter van into an offroad Motorcycle hauler for cross country adventures. Maybe I'll attain your zen spending levels when I'm finished but now I seem to be spending that amount every few days. btw, love your hair and look, beautiful.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  Месяц назад

      Thank you 😊 💓 It's easy to drop a ton of money when building or making big changes. Motorcycle hauler sounds like fun!!

  • @Tom-Travels
    @Tom-Travels 7 месяцев назад +6

    Nice. Good job!
    I enjoyed the video of your talents and skills in money management.
    Me? I spend an average of $2,200 a month.
    It's been the same amount for about the last year, or more.
    I'm plotting and planning on how I can reduce my expenses, a little bit, this year.
    Imagine this:
    My first job (1976) was as a Master's Degreed teacher at a junior collage.
    I made $660 a month. Public school teachers made $400 a month.
    Brand new Levi jeans cost $4 a pair. I bought my first house for $14K
    That was when money was real.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      $2,200 a month is not bad! It would be so much more expensive in a house!

    • @maw6456
      @maw6456 10 дней назад

      ​@@LifeWithMicheleSilver😂😂😂😂 what? No offense but 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

  • @justdawndb
    @justdawndb 5 месяцев назад +2

    Wow, im seriously impressed! Your van looks beautiful & refreshing. Thank you so much for sharing!

  • @NomadicNannie
    @NomadicNannie 7 месяцев назад +5

    lol. Barky McBarkerson! 🐾💙
    I needed this video, it reminded me I need to keep receipts & track my spending.

  • @Simply.C
    @Simply.C 7 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you for sharing such a personal aspect of your life with us. I’ve often wondered what actual cost would be for a month without mechanical repairs or unforeseen circumstances. I, personally, would value you sharing this summary with us monthly so we can get an idea of actual costs associated with a whole year.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      I may do this again in the future, but I'm currently at home base so I can't count every month.

  • @maryraymond8375
    @maryraymond8375 7 месяцев назад +3

    I have a small barky dog too! Lol. You are very patient with her. Not bad for an entire month. Looking forward to the next trip. Safe travels!

  • @noname7782
    @noname7782 5 дней назад

    I'm the frugal van lifer. $400 a month is my average. Fone, car ins and prime movies plus food and gas. I live simple and stay in colorado springs during the heat of summer.

  • @calvinmarshall1610
    @calvinmarshall1610 7 месяцев назад +2

    Hi there just stumbled upon this video thank you for sharing your expenses over a month in Florida very helpful. Looking forward to seeing the next episode

  • @KingsterLovey
    @KingsterLovey 7 месяцев назад +3

    And that's with a Vehicle Payment! Awesome..TY

  • @jerroddooley374
    @jerroddooley374 7 месяцев назад +4

    Barky McBark lol. Leave sweet Sophie alone. She’s the boss. Great video sweet lady. Stay safe

  • @rangeleycongregationalchurch
    @rangeleycongregationalchurch 6 месяцев назад +1

    I did the same thing when I was in Florida. I kept my receipts. I was gone for a month also.

  • @wendyhansen3223
    @wendyhansen3223 5 месяцев назад +2

    I love your little dog so cute

  • @RicsBag
    @RicsBag 4 месяца назад +1

    Your videos look like the real deal... A true Vanlife Champion. Always LoVe the hair look. 😍

  • @robertholman9743
    @robertholman9743 6 месяцев назад +3

    I love the color of your hair❤❤❤❤❤

  • @Christiananeriz235
    @Christiananeriz235 7 месяцев назад +3

    I just found your channel. Love it! The grey hair look good too. You can definitely pull it off.

  • @sharonross-vd1fg
    @sharonross-vd1fg 4 месяца назад +1

    Oh my goodness that's awesome 👌

  • @gonewiththekale
    @gonewiththekale 3 месяца назад

    $120 a month for insurance is amazing!! I've been quoted $240 a month since my promaster is considered a commercial vehicle, so my van just remains parked on family property until I can find something more affordable. You are so lucky🙏🏼

  • @lavadaroufs
    @lavadaroufs 4 месяца назад +5

    I know you love your dog but how can you let it's barking dominate your life? There are ways to quiet the barking if you wanted to - I enjoyed your budget breakdown and thanks for sharing

    • @tammyburke9453
      @tammyburke9453 3 месяца назад +1

      NO CHIT. I thought, edit! That would be a deal breaker......and to be your neighbor 😮 ugh you're THAT person. Nope. Little tiny tyrant

    • @christinetaylor5162
      @christinetaylor5162 3 месяца назад +3

      Why do you feel the need to leave a negative comment? She is just starting out, please think of how someone feels before spreading your negativity.

  • @WaywardAbode
    @WaywardAbode 6 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks for sharing your breakdown. :)

  • @southerngirlyall6497
    @southerngirlyall6497 7 месяцев назад +2

    Michele, That's not bad. I figured your gas would be more. From my driveway in Upstate SC, exploring FL, and back home, I put 3,035 miles on my SUV. Totally worth it! Not sure what I spent on gas but I was in FL for 7 weeks.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      That doesn't include transportation to and from Florida. That includes the month I was there moving from town to town. I figured that was more realistic.

  • @oneforchrist7446
    @oneforchrist7446 5 месяцев назад +2

    I love your videos! Would love if you would do more like every day or two. Also when you travel how do you secure your dog does he get buckled in? thanks!

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  5 месяцев назад

      Thank you ❤️ I wish I could do videos that often, but they currently take me 5-8 hours to edit one video. I don't have the best equipment, so it takes a while.
      When I'm driving, Sophie sits in a doggy car seat in the front. 😊

  • @Thecargohustler
    @Thecargohustler 7 месяцев назад +3

    You made my day ❤

  • @lynnp456
    @lynnp456 Месяц назад +1

    im so glad your channel was recommended to me! i have a lot to learn!🚐 i lived in VA for 7 years all in hampton roads area! Hope you're having a great and safe summer! subscribed! and you have beautiful hair like my mom! 💜🤍

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  Месяц назад +1

      Thank you, Lynn! It's been a hot summer. I'm definitely looking forward to cooler weather!

    • @lynnp456
      @lynnp456 Месяц назад

      @@LifeWithMicheleSilver stay safe lovely ! 🌹

  • @DoneGone282
    @DoneGone282 7 месяцев назад +2

    Thanks!

  • @bosshog1062
    @bosshog1062 7 месяцев назад +3

    Your natural beauty is breathtaking, just saying.

  • @CLdriver1960
    @CLdriver1960 7 месяцев назад +3

    First time visitor to your channel. Expenses are usually an interesting topic. That’s very reasonable for a 30 day trip to Florida considering that food, lodging, and transportation are included in the cost.
    If I may make a suggestion for reducing the cost of ice:
    Get yourself a DC-DC battery charger, they produce a tremendous amount of power, do not require sunlight, and are reasonably inexpensive.
    Subscribed!

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Thanks! Yes, people have mentioned these chargers before. But I'm not familiar with them. I suppose I should do some studying and figure it out!

  • @debslifesimplified6406
    @debslifesimplified6406 7 месяцев назад +1

    I didn't realize your home base is Virginia. I'm thirty minutes south of the Virginia border off of I85. I loved Sophie barking in the background. She didn't like those people walking by her home lol.
    BTW I am in Jan's group. I just hadn't been to any gatherings.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +1

      Hi Deb! Well hopefully we'll meet at some future outings if you join us!

  • @rictech.
    @rictech. 7 месяцев назад +1

    Sophie was just talking. She was saying? Mom I see someone out there. Of course it’s when you are on the phone or doing a video. That’s ok I sat passionately with a smile enjoying. Thanks for the video and information??? You look absolutely beautiful. Your friend ric in nor cal .

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Thank you Ric! Yes, she always tells me when someone is walking around, even if they're in their own yard 🤣

  • @johnadams7323
    @johnadams7323 7 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you, your a Doll❤

  • @trishdecresce3952
    @trishdecresce3952 7 месяцев назад +3

    Wow. That's amazing since that also covers the van payment and ins. What about health insurance and internet?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +1

      My health insurance is covered. Dental is 4 times a year. For internet I use the Hotspot on my phone.

    • @trishdecresce3952
      @trishdecresce3952 7 месяцев назад +1

      That sounds really good. Thanks for the info.

  • @edwizard62
    @edwizard62 2 месяца назад

    Barkie Mcbarkie hahahaha. Love this video.

  • @sharonross-vd1fg
    @sharonross-vd1fg 4 месяца назад

    Love love love your baby you have there so precious 💖 🐶✌️💕

  • @abyss5350
    @abyss5350 7 месяцев назад +2

    As much as I travel my biggest expense is fuel which usually runs between 16k to 20k per month I average around 7mpg nope I don’t sit much payment on vehicle 2400 a month

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Whoa! That's a lotta gas!!

    • @abyss5350
      @abyss5350 7 месяцев назад

      @@LifeWithMicheleSilver not gas diesel I haven’t even bothered to factor in def

  • @debbiedrake1638
    @debbiedrake1638 7 месяцев назад +1

    Thanks for sharing that. I could be close to same. I do spend more eating out though. Cracker Barrel gets my$.
    Mostly cause I want to support them, when i sleep there.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      I would love to support Cracker Barrel because I stayed at quite a few of them, but I couldn’t find a single thing to eat on their menu. I guess it helps me save money!

    • @RoxanneSumner-lg7gu
      @RoxanneSumner-lg7gu 6 месяцев назад

      ​@@LifeWithMicheleSilvertheir eggs biscuits cheese hash browns, grits, and fresh fruit cups are great. Ice tea very good. But the gift shop with clothes, OMG.

  • @randallmiser2976
    @randallmiser2976 7 месяцев назад +1

    Great video! I'm seeing an actual traveling cost of about $369.87 due to you trip. The rest is the same every month if your at home or on the road but that's a good way to see what it might be if your going full time. 🥰 Keep up the good work!

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Yes! Next winter I may stay longer in Florida since it won’t break the budget!

  • @anniesshenanigans3815
    @anniesshenanigans3815 5 месяцев назад +2

    either get closer to the camera, because I can barely hear you... or get one of those clip on mic. good luck!!

  • @Chihuahua-chica
    @Chihuahua-chica 7 месяцев назад +1

    I love ur fur baby ❤

  • @darlenemiller847
    @darlenemiller847 7 месяцев назад +1

    😊🙏🐾

  • @Mikasa_akarman17
    @Mikasa_akarman17 6 месяцев назад +1

    Can van drivers work on uber eat or any food drive application

  • @stevewright6290
    @stevewright6290 5 месяцев назад +1

    How friggin cute are you... Hope you're enjoying life on the road.. If you roll thru Cocoa Beach FL,, lunch is on me..

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  5 месяцев назад

      Thank you, Steve! I left Florida, but I will be back! I loved it there 🩵

    • @stevewright6290
      @stevewright6290 5 месяцев назад

      @@LifeWithMicheleSilver Where did you visit in Fla ?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  5 месяцев назад

      @@stevewright6290 mostly Ocala area, down to Ft Myers, up to Altamonte, New Smyrna, back to Ocala, and then North up the east coast.

  • @theroyalgypsydiaries4658
    @theroyalgypsydiaries4658 4 месяца назад

  • @fishntools
    @fishntools 4 месяца назад +1

    Why don't you charge your aux. batt. using the vehicle charging circuit?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  4 месяца назад

      I don't know how to hook it up, and I don't like to drive around a lot. I do have a small Portable power station that charges from the 12v socket.

  • @robinw285
    @robinw285 5 месяцев назад +1

    Great video, practical. What is your source of income?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  4 месяца назад +1

      I'm currently making a small amount from RUclips ads, paid promotions, and my art. I have a job that I'm super thankful for, but it's not sustainable. I'm hoping to transition away from the job by the end of the year.

  • @dismaldog
    @dismaldog 7 месяцев назад +1

  • @caroltaxman571
    @caroltaxman571 7 месяцев назад

    What about medical insurance? What about toiletries and medicines.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Hi Carol. I don't pay medical. Dental is quarterly. Toiletries come from the grocery store and are included in the grocery bill, and I don't take any medications. I've been eating a mostly whole foods plant based diet for the majority of my adult life, and I am thankful it's kept me in great health.

  • @taniadolphy5122
    @taniadolphy5122 5 месяцев назад +1

    Did you like Minnesota?

  • @poodleprofessor
    @poodleprofessor 4 месяца назад

    What do you do for health insurance?

  • @denise2782
    @denise2782 7 месяцев назад

    I found video very hard to hear. I have on full volume

  • @scamphound1892
    @scamphound1892 7 месяцев назад +1

    Nice breakdown! No dog food?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +1

      A bag of food lasts her 3 months, and I didn't need to replenish. I did pick up a little wet food with the groceries, tho. That's included.

  • @BeverlyAdventures
    @BeverlyAdventures 7 месяцев назад

    I want to know how you were able to drive around for 30 days and get back to Virginia after under 150. 😂 I can’t do it and I am in a minivan when I drive to Maryland. Headed there next month so would love to know

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      I didn't include my transportation to and from. I calculated costs for the month as if I was already in the state. I did put $60 in my tank twice to get there.

  • @lewisvogel466
    @lewisvogel466 2 месяца назад

    I have a suggestion. Purchase the Haynes Repair Manual for your van which shows all the maintenance you're supposed to do. I would be willing to bet you don't do all the maintenance on your vehicle that you're supposed to. Maintenance should be the top line item on your budget. But you didn't even have maintenance listed in your budget. You'll probably end up getting stuck somewhere as a result. Also, you apparently don't have AAA or roadside towing assistance. If you dont make maintenance your top financial priority, and don't have roadside towing assistance, then make sure to have about 3,000 dollars in savings to pay for when your fuel pump, alternator, starter or power steering pump goes out and you're stuck screwed somewhere in some town that doesn't have a mechanic. I'm sorry to tell you this, but I see a scenario like that happening in your future.

  • @donnadavis2006
    @donnadavis2006 3 месяца назад

    Only question I have is Discover bill. $60. Was it an old purchase or new? If new, what category was this in?

  • @Artsylady2030
    @Artsylady2030 5 месяцев назад +1

    I was wondering how Old are you ??? just curious hard to tell with the hair ...thanks

  • @scruffynubbles4792
    @scruffynubbles4792 7 месяцев назад

    What is the point of having solar panels if you dont USE THEM?!?!?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +1

      Hi scruffy, I'm not sure what you're talking about as this question doesn't have anything to do with my video. I have 3 solar panels and wish I could fit more on my roof! Thanks for commenting tho!

  • @karihegg8961
    @karihegg8961 7 месяцев назад +1

    Do you sell your art?

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад

      Yes I do. I'm also planning to sell t-shirts with my art on them ☺️

    • @midlife_journey
      @midlife_journey 7 месяцев назад

      I want to see them at some point. Maybe a video on that? I saw a sneak peek in your other video. It looked nice.

  • @محمداليمني-ح6ظ
    @محمداليمني-ح6ظ 3 месяца назад

    لا. تدققين. .❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤. الحب.

  • @bts_officially
    @bts_officially 3 месяца назад

    Jeeeeeeez why too low cost of living?

  • @JulieBme
    @JulieBme 7 месяцев назад

    I’m not sure all this counts since you apparently have a “home base”. But y’all are cute.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  7 месяцев назад +2

      Most vanlifers have a "home base". I don't own a home. I don't pay a mortgage or even rent. Where do you think they go to do their builds, needed repair, or upgrades? Spend time with loved ones? Get a break from traveling? No need to be dismissive.

  • @susansharp112
    @susansharp112 6 месяцев назад

    Why do women put curtains in their vehicles that minimally block. It’s like they are saying I live in my van come get me.

    • @LifeWithMicheleSilver
      @LifeWithMicheleSilver  6 месяцев назад

      Hi Susan. My curtains don't minimally block. I have privacy curtains all around.

  • @citytrees1752
    @citytrees1752 Месяц назад

    please just get to the point

    • @BookMama72
      @BookMama72 Месяц назад +2

      Please take a hike.

  • @chartmann43
    @chartmann43 5 месяцев назад

    I’m having a terrible time deciding what to do! I just bought a 🚐! And it’s something I’ve wanted to do for so many years now and I’m finally at a place in my life (56 years old) and quit my nursing career after having a couple of surgeries this past year. But! My biggest dilemma is that I have two bonded bunnies. I’m normally a dog person but my soul dog passed away in November 2022 and I just couldn’t get another dog so I saved a couple of rabbits instead! They’re very delicate creatures and fear everything! I bought a 2011 Ford Transit Connect with a lot of miles on it already. I live in California but from Texas. I’m in the process of getting my van ready to travel and my lease ends on August 1st! I’m selling all of my belongings and can’t wait to be rid of the “stuff”!
    But my bunnies would most likely die if I took them with me and I’m feeling so guilty about thinking of rehoming them 😢… so… long story.. sorry.
    I was just looking for any advice or thoughts on this. Idk too many people who are educated in bunny care, but it’s not easy and it’s expensive. I think I’m just venting here because you seem like such an empathetic person who might have some insight into my situation.
    I love your van.
    I can’t wait to stop paying $3k for rent, not even including utilities ect! Haha!
    Anyway. Thanks for listening. And thanks for your video today on budget. That alone inspires me! And BTW, you’re absolutely gorgeous! 🩵🩵🤍🤍

  • @MagdyMostafaabdo
    @MagdyMostafaabdo 4 месяца назад +1

    Love ❤