I'm Leaving My House To Live Full Time in My Tiny Van - UK Van Life

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 23 янв 2023
  • As my landlords have decided to increase my rent again and all my other bills continue to rise I've decided to bite the bullet and attempt to live full time in my tiny van!
    Am I mad? Only time will tell.
    Thank you for watching my van life channel
    Please like & comment and don't forget to subscribe
    / @bythecurb
    OTHER SITES:
    🟦 Facebook - / bythecurb1
    🟨 Instagram - / by_the_curb
    🟥 Website - www.bythecurb.co.uk
    WAYS TO HELP THIS CHANNEL:
    www.buymeacoffee.com/bythecurb

Комментарии • 2,4 тыс.

  • @bythecurb
    @bythecurb  Год назад +39

    Hi everyone, thanks for the support and brilliant comments. Unfortunately the comment section is getting targeted by scammers. If you receive a message on here using my image which claims to be from Telegram or that you have won a prize please ignore it. As extra precaution I've changed the settings to 'approved only' so don't worry if your comment doesn't immediately appear, it's just that it's awaiting my approval!!

  • @dannylee6875
    @dannylee6875 Год назад +334

    Shame our country is that messed up that honest hardworking people can’t afford to live anymore. You seem a great dad btw

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +38

      Thank you, I can afford to live but I just want a better quality of life! 😀

    • @djokovic1747
      @djokovic1747 Год назад +35

      @@bythecurb Get a gym membership at a local leisure centre💪probably £250 for the year.. be able to relax, sauna, steamroom, jacuzzi and showers.

    • @T1tusCr0w
      @T1tusCr0w Год назад +10

      @@djokovic1747 that’s good advice.

    • @daftdigital
      @daftdigital Год назад +11

      Yet we run to the polls to vote tory every time.

    • @user-vp6cq4sv3d
      @user-vp6cq4sv3d Год назад

      @@T1tusCr0w It's not. You can get free gym by applying for the restart scheme. Pay absolutely nothing. Also a gym is a public place. It's just pervert bait now.

  • @Globetrotter-1
    @Globetrotter-1 Год назад +153

    I've lived full-time in my car for the past 3-years, including throughout the coldest of winters. No heating or fires. Exploring the wilds and being a part of nature is in my blood. I love it.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +13

      Wow, that's great, you must have some good stories.

    • @Globetrotter-1
      @Globetrotter-1 Год назад +9

      @@bythecurb Plenty of real-life stories! 😉 Life is for living!

    • @OneWayToPeaceOrthodoxy
      @OneWayToPeaceOrthodoxy Год назад +7

      What do you do for money?

    • @OggyGTA
      @OggyGTA Год назад +9

      @@OneWayToPeaceOrthodoxy million dollar question. You either have to have a job that can accommodate this lifestyle, or be retired with a pension. You still need money,just not so much.

    • @craigmurgatroyd5633
      @craigmurgatroyd5633 Год назад +5

      Isn't that being called homeless?

  • @johngarethjenkins
    @johngarethjenkins Год назад +43

    Sold my flat last year, ridiculous management charges, ground rent poll tax and heating costs. It made me look at my situation. Bought a caravan and living cheaply and happily! Best wishes for your future mate

    • @kat7777
      @kat7777 Год назад +4

      Is that sited or tow?

    • @jfluffydog2110
      @jfluffydog2110 Год назад +2

      Poll tax? You must be old.

    • @bobbyball1057
      @bobbyball1057 5 месяцев назад

      How is life for you these days?

  • @calebvanderwolf1777
    @calebvanderwolf1777 Год назад +8

    Well done.
    Seven months ago I had enough of neighbours, noise, people, I have severe PTSD, so I struggle, so I packed in my little flat and went to live in a tent on the side of a mountain in Wales.
    The winter has been hard, looking at the frozen droplets on the inside of my tent, in the torchlight they sparkle like stars.
    Hard yes I'm 63, but very satisfying very calming.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +2

      That sounds amazing. What a story!

  • @rodneystanden7342
    @rodneystanden7342 Год назад +219

    Good on you! Here's some suggestions. Take or leave.
    1 keep your van LIGHT. As in weight.
    2 Insulate as much as you can (afford).
    3 Don't think big is better. It is not in so many ways (costs).
    4 It's somewhere to kip and eat. Keep it simple.
    5 Allow time to adjust and make GRADUAL improvements.
    6 Finally, laugh, yes laugh at the savings DAILY that you will be making and laugh at the rest of us as you BANK your earnings and remove the financial anvils hanging over our heads.
    Good luck to you. Keep safe and thoroughly enjoy living for yourself for a change. ROD UK

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +13

      Thanks Rod, that's an absolutely brilliant comment. I'm pinning it 👍🙂

    • @apollolang3399
      @apollolang3399 Год назад +6

      Good for you best of luck

    • @lewisdean22
      @lewisdean22 Год назад +3

      Well done best of luck.♥️🇳🇵

    • @victoriagoodier8209
      @victoriagoodier8209 Год назад +3

      Great tips.

    • @am32ireland
      @am32ireland Год назад +5

      Great advice!!! Makes a change for RUclips comment section.

  • @tonyblake642
    @tonyblake642 Год назад +290

    Hi, a word of advice from someone that has lived van life since before there was RUclips. If you have friends they will offer you a bed, don't accept. Look for cheap deals to stay in a hotel or B&B some or all week ends. Charge what you can every chance you get. Orthopaedic memory foam mattress is the best thing to sleep on. Don't go spending on loads of things as chances are most you will not need. Hope it goes well, you should be able to save a fortune.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +53

      Thanks for the advice, most of my friends don't even know what I'm doing yet! 😂

    • @joline2730
      @joline2730 Год назад +21

      @@bythecurb Well I don't recommend a foam matress - had one and once it had moulded to my body and form, it was hard as nails and difficult to change position. Just get cheap foam, test the life first 'on the cheap' otherwise you will regret the money you have spent. You can always buy better stuff once you know you like thw life ... 👍👍 good luvck 💟

    • @TiredOfAllOfThis
      @TiredOfAllOfThis Год назад +39

      Good advice. I have pretty much left my friends behind after I retired from work. Easier as I don’t want to explain myself… not in a great place mentally but my circumstances meant that I could not afford to rent somewhere , so VanLife it is for me. 6 months on, it’s not easy but it is doable.
      Best wishes. Maybe see you on the road.

    • @jasonantigua6825
      @jasonantigua6825 Год назад

      @@joline2730 You need to spend decent money on a good mattress! Don’t be a tight Arrsse

    • @tonyblake642
      @tonyblake642 Год назад +4

      @@joline2730 I bought the latest one from Ebay as shop soiled for £20 cover was grubby which washed fine. Like most products it depends, my Bluetti for instance is playing up after four months.

  • @MysticShiv3r
    @MysticShiv3r Год назад +108

    You're extremely brave. I admire your courage to up sticks and do this. There is something seriously wrong with the UK and has been a long time coming. Good luck on your journey of self discovery.

  • @coffee6783
    @coffee6783 Год назад +30

    Van life is finally catching on in the UK although it's not that easy in England with all the restrictions on parking, etc. - it's easier in Scotland.

  • @BillyBullshitter
    @BillyBullshitter Год назад +163

    Many people feel exactly the same. The cost of living is going beyond ridiculous and people don't realise what is going on.
    Good luck on your journey.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +6

      Thank you!

    • @billybutlin7857
      @billybutlin7857 Год назад

      People do realise what's going on, billions of pounds are being spent on bombs and bullets to maim folk in Ukraine, for a start. In Leeds the council have yet again put up tax, spending extra millions on housing ILLEGAL immigrants on orders from the government. Don't get me started on net zero polices, but yes, we know what's going on! As yet there's nothing we can do about it.

    • @noeldunford4955
      @noeldunford4955 Год назад +6

      I know what's going on it's them at the top creaming the cystem and still want more to live in there castles

    • @noeldunford4955
      @noeldunford4955 Год назад

      @Anne Woodward another one out of touch sorry you must need more money than me

    • @noeldunford4955
      @noeldunford4955 Год назад

      @Anne Woodward obviously you have no morels then IV done jobs that a lot would not do freezing cold in rain mud up to my eye balls soaking wet yes grave diging 11 years in a minuse 28 cold store plus carrying 30 tones a shift on my own and push bike to and from work in all weathers and for crap money and no doubt you can't say the same

  • @icelolly4277
    @icelolly4277 Год назад +18

    You can do this and there's nothing wrong with it and nor is there any shame in it. You've got to do what you've got to do. Just be positive and treat it as an adventure. Who says everyone has to live exactly the same and have the exact same life day in, day out. Good luck!

  • @delvida5592
    @delvida5592 Год назад +42

    Wishing you all the best! I grew up in W.Yorks & some of my best memories are of my Dad getting a REALLY old van, painting it bright yellow (it was the 70's!) and taking us all over the place. We slept like sardines in the back, got moved on a few times in the night, ate horrible tinned food on a tiny camp stove & it was bloody brilliant!

  • @pauladamson8684
    @pauladamson8684 Год назад +30

    I’ve just stumbled across this, fair play to you. The UK is a nightmare now. Good luck to you - love your life x

  • @janetgregory6060
    @janetgregory6060 Год назад +6

    I sold my house and brought a narrowboat. I live in a marina works out for mooring, electric, water, coal and rubbish collection about £120 pw. No council tax. Debt free is enlightening. Good luck x

  • @DjNikGnashers
    @DjNikGnashers Год назад +345

    Well done mate, I often thought about doing this, saying bollocks to the council, government, and slave labour rat race modern life.
    I'm married but my wife doesn't share the same view.
    If I was single, I'd have done what you are doing years ago.
    Good for you mate !

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +20

      Thanks mate, maybe try and talk her round slowly, start going on weekends away first. We love it and save a fortune on hotel rooms

    • @charlotteb6898
      @charlotteb6898 Год назад +16

      Wife's don't seem to get same pressure everyone else does.

    • @muckle8
      @muckle8 Год назад +18

      @charlotte. Women never wanna rough it a bit , they can never see the bigger picture sadly!

    • @salvatorejack6894
      @salvatorejack6894 Год назад +14

      Get rid of her she’s holding you back.

    • @sarahmc8309
      @sarahmc8309 Год назад +6

      DMn I’m the opposite and my partner won’t do it and ants the slave life yet moans how much money he has to save for a house 🏡 😂😂😂

  • @darrincambridge2377
    @darrincambridge2377 Год назад +6

    On my 3rd van never been happier and kids love adventures 😁

  • @whisthpo
    @whisthpo Год назад +9

    The number of people thinking of doing the same thing as you James is growing day by day!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +2

      There are so many of us!!

  • @alandavies1054
    @alandavies1054 Год назад +68

    New viewer here…good luck with your new living situation. I’m with you 100% on the costs just to survive in the UK at the moment…it’s crazy and won’t get any easier any time soon. Me and my wife hope to retire in a few years…we will be in our early 60’s and I’m trying to persuade her to sell up and buy a decent motor home…then we can spend the UK winters somewhere warmer and see some of Europe before we’re too old. I’ve subbed and good luck 👍🇬🇧

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +11

      Thanks for the sub, I know there are lots of people who now spend the winter months in the south of France or Spain. Sounds like a great idea to me 😎

  • @CJMVector321190
    @CJMVector321190 Год назад +10

    The adventures with your daughter in that van. Will be worth far more than anything money can buy. Children don’t judge they just want fun and adventure.

  • @matthewappleby1651
    @matthewappleby1651 Год назад +28

    Full respect. Quite simply. You’ve summarised the dire and corrupt system. Best of luck.

  • @davidfoster9890
    @davidfoster9890 Год назад +11

    I'm retired. Found myself single again aged 62. Got a camper, converted to carry a motorbike & went off to Spain & France. Did it full time for 3 years.
    Came back to UK at start of covid. Ended up buying a caravan, sited it in a family garden.I
    Setting off to tour in van, to Europe in March for 90 days.
    Heading for the sun & biking roads, can't wait.
    Good luck to you - it's amazing how little room we need!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Mate, you're living the dream (my dream 😊)

  • @manoffaithministry
    @manoffaithministry Год назад +18

    Same here in Australia. Landlords, agents have got greedy which is forcing more people onto the streets as homeless. I work weekly with these homeless in my town and the numbers are growing fast. The world is getting greedy and too much concentrate on self instead of others. God bless you and your kids🙏🏼✝️

    • @monikawojciechowska8964
      @monikawojciechowska8964 Год назад +3

      So the cost of everything increases (including mortgage rates) so everyone increases their prices but only landlords are labelled as greedy 🤦🏼‍♀️ people are clueless

    • @manoffaithministry
      @manoffaithministry Год назад +6

      @@monikawojciechowska8964 and agents. Rent increases of $120-$140 PER WEEK in a single increment are not justified regardless of the economy. I feel for the landlords and agents but many of them are increasing rent solely in order to continue their lifestyles so as not to have to tighten the belt like everyone else, but at the ruin of their tenents. This is happening so much in Qld. Tenants are not personal cash cows for landlords who dont want to change their lifestyle one iota.

    • @monikawojciechowska8964
      @monikawojciechowska8964 Год назад +1

      @@manoffaithministry people won't rent out their house just to barely get by. What's the point? You do it to make money, it's a business and they take all the risk (like damage) and hidden expenses (such as cost of repair and taxes) people don't think about. People get furious at landlords because they make a living through passive income instead of being a brokie like everyone else.

    • @1Jason
      @1Jason 9 месяцев назад

      @@monikawojciechowska8964 It's not fair to blame landlords. I have a rental property. It runs at a loss during the year, so I usually get a few grand back at tax time. It is certainly not making me a wealthy man. Recently, I had tenants who put holes in walls and doors all over the house. They smashed the glass in the kitchen sliding door and even pulled up floorboards.

    • @cryptidhunter9901
      @cryptidhunter9901 9 месяцев назад

      It is not merely greed but part of a world wide agenda. The freemasons are deliberately trying to destroy and wipe out a huge chunk of humanity. The land lords are almost all freemasons also, and have been told by their higher ups to do this.

  • @mikesheehan9041
    @mikesheehan9041 Год назад +3

    Get a gym membership for a nationwide gym, get one for about 30 a month. Most of em are open till very late and it gives you access to showers and hot water etc.

  • @andrewmichael9154
    @andrewmichael9154 Год назад +3

    My site agent who is in his late 40 lives in his Mercedes sprinter. He's kitted it out with solar panels etc and even has a small log burner in it. He loves the freedom and says he's never been happier

  • @mandyjane1234
    @mandyjane1234 Год назад +34

    It wont be a complete disaster, you'll have ups and downs like any other life style. The adventures you have will your kids will stay with them forever. I think the van looks great and I wish you all the very best !!

  • @PRESTIGEANDCLASSIC
    @PRESTIGEANDCLASSIC Год назад +9

    I can't believe how much people are paying in rent and bills! I lived in my car in a unit that I worked from years ago, I was in there for a year, and I slept in the back of a BMW E30 coupe, it was pretty hard going. Although your van is small it looks pretty well sorted, I think your going to be absolutely fine, spring is almost hear! I'm converting a old VW T25 to live in. The realisation that I can't afford a house or flat was liberating and helped me to focus on what I could do, rather than what I couldn't. My background is cars/ classic cars so I'm hoping to make my van epic! Happy to have found your channel, good luck 😉

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thank you for your support. It must have been hard sleeping in the back of a coupe!!

  • @thewarriorsway9168
    @thewarriorsway9168 9 месяцев назад +2

    I think this is the future for many people in the UK. I'll be joining you in the van life very soon.

  • @craigaskew9115
    @craigaskew9115 Год назад +7

    So many things you said ring true for me too. I've given notice on my flat and bought an old motorhome. Moving into it full time in August. Had to borrow money to do it, but I reckon I'll have that paid off in a little over a year. My family know my adventurous spirit and they've been very supportive. Your videos do help too. Thanks mate.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Good luck mate, van life is the best decision I've ever made

    • @craigaskew9115
      @craigaskew9115 11 месяцев назад

      @@bythecurb thanks mate. I'm looking forward to it very much

  • @londonEnglishVideos
    @londonEnglishVideos Год назад +30

    Good luck with this, I think a lot of folk are thinking of doing something like this. One piece of advice I heard from another RUclipsr (who was homeless) was to get a discount monthly pass at a gym - generally you can spend hours in there (great for bad weather), use the shower facilities, chat with others etc.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +6

      Thank you! I've got a gym pass already so will be going on most days 🙂

  • @amymadden4631
    @amymadden4631 Год назад +55

    It's so great that you are taking this step, it is a dream for a lot of us to escape the rent trap. Personally, I am very tired of spending so much just to live indoors in the city (Chicago), it's exhausting. So I watch van life videos and imagine finding a different way. Hoping this works out for you, it will be an adventure either way. Your little girl is so beautiful! Looking forward to seeing how it goes!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +8

      Thank you Amy, I can't wait to have lots of adventures

  • @phoenixsparrow3757
    @phoenixsparrow3757 Год назад +11

    Love the honesty of your situation, youre not alone mate. Hope you enjoy the situation and stay positive!

  • @margaretnicol3423
    @margaretnicol3423 Год назад +10

    I wish you the very best of luck. It's amazing how much easier life is when you realize you don't need all that ''stuff'' that ties you down.

  • @colinhughes916
    @colinhughes916 Год назад +12

    Good luck mate - your a decent bloke - the cost of life is so hard
    You have a good outlook on life
    Stay happy 😊

  • @perculiar_daughter
    @perculiar_daughter Год назад +41

    Hi James, I can't wait to see how you get on in your new adventure. I've been fascinated by "van life" videos for the past few months, and it seems people can make a good go of it. You're right not to let councils and landlords fleece you, and at the end of the day you will create some real memories with your daughter and that's priceless. Good luck 👍

  • @Johno143
    @Johno143 Год назад +8

    Anything done with your children's best interests at heart is always the best decision.
    Well done mate 👍

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Couldn't agree more

    • @Ellis_B
      @Ellis_B Год назад

      Yes well said Paul

  • @TheBlueOwl21
    @TheBlueOwl21 Год назад +3

    What a great move ! I did the same thing five years ago and it’s the best thing that I have done. Living in a house is a permanent ridiculous drain on the finances, I wouldn’t go back to bricks and mortar 👍

  • @CatAndDogTips
    @CatAndDogTips Год назад +20

    Thank you for sharing your story brother. All the best to you, your girlfriend and your daughter. Decent people doing their best and many people understand you x

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thank you. I appreciate your comment 🙂

  • @markb1487
    @markb1487 Год назад +6

    As a father of 4 children,,time absolutely does fly...I can remember doings things with them all...And now they are grown up,,they have their own lives..I don't
    see them much as I would like now..
    Take every chance,every opportunity..
    Absolutely fantastic video..On a humble human level..💯👍💯

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thanks Mark, I appreciate the comment

  • @seanmcelhatton9368
    @seanmcelhatton9368 Год назад +5

    RESPECT, You are doing what a lot of people are scared to do, giving two fingers up to the system, the memories you and your daughter will make in that van will be priceless, I wish you all the very best good luck.

  • @pennyworth1
    @pennyworth1 Год назад +3

    I lived in my car for three months looking back I loved it some nights were tough very cold but you get through it am going to do it full time soon my life is crap living in a damp flat on my own it's no life hope it works out for you take care jpt

  • @ProAnglingNW
    @ProAnglingNW Год назад +3

    Good on ya mate I've done the same!!
    Kitted my long wheel base trafic van out got a garage for storage and live in a hotel permanently now and saved thousands 😀

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Nice one. I'm jealous of your long wheel base!! lol

  • @ahoyleisure
    @ahoyleisure Год назад +6

    Easy James. Loving the videos. Me and Katie have found campervan people the most welcoming and friendly. We’ve just got started too producing regular youtube videos after watching other van lifers for years. feel hopeless at the moment but you are smashing it. We have a bigger van but 4 bloody dogs so just as little room. We live in Stockport so not too far away. Keep it up guys.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you, I bet it's a tight squeeze with the dogs!!

    • @ahoyleisure
      @ahoyleisure Год назад

      @@bythecurb we throw them outside at night. Keeps those people faggin outside the pub away. 🤣

  • @jackieandtony7108
    @jackieandtony7108 Год назад +4

    We completely understand this, we work so hard, and llong hours just to sleep in a brick building! We haven't been brave enough to do it YET so our first step was to get a pre-loved camper and try it out at weekends. So far so good, we love it and can't wait for the better weather. Wishing you all rhe luck in rhe world, we only live once so just do what makes you happy 😊

  • @JB-vs4bs
    @JB-vs4bs Год назад +1

    Weve been on the road for over 2 years with our two children, best thing we ever did. Go get it

  • @Itisfinished.
    @Itisfinished. Год назад +17

    Maximum respect, hope everything goes well for you.

  • @artif1ed
    @artif1ed Год назад +6

    Just found your channel and good luck to you with this venture. The country, the world is over the edge of the cliff and we are in freefall to absolute totalitarian.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Yes, there are certainly big changes ahead

  • @josephdigiovanna
    @josephdigiovanna Год назад +5

    I’ve had a very similar situation as yours and that’s why my wife and I decided to move out and live in a mobile home. Now we have more than double the space and we’re paying almost half the price.
    I like your videos, take care 😊

  • @mand7favs1
    @mand7favs1 Год назад +16

    All the best to you. Ive wanted to do this for years but being a woman on my own Ive not made the leap. I think it will be great for you and your family u will have some great adventures and save money. Ill be watching the journey. Dont listen to the naysayers 😃🙏

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +4

      Thanks Amanda, it must be quite daunting as a single woman. There are lots who do it though, and some with channels on here.

    • @onlyme8117
      @onlyme8117 Год назад +1

      Amanda, this is a serious question. Where do you park up over night and feel safe?

    • @robdrew2745
      @robdrew2745 Год назад

      @@onlyme8117 nowhere is safe anymore, its more a question of where you feel comfortable,! ONE LIFE LIVE IT!!

  • @hereweare9096
    @hereweare9096 Год назад +6

    Makes sense!! Hope it works out for you.
    The cost of living is crazy.. here in Australia as well.
    The Adventuring life awaits!! Looking forward to seeing how it all goes..

  • @samrhys5159
    @samrhys5159 Год назад +2

    I’ve been sofa surfing for three years this April while working and studying.
    It is so difficult at times but I’m so much more humble for it. (I have spent the odd night in my car when I’ve finished late and not been able to secure a sofa or floor for the night… 2023 Britain lol).
    If I can give you any advice, whether you’re spiritual or not, it is this…
    When you wake each day, before you get out of bed or look at your phone, start by telling yourself “today is a good day”.
    At first you will feel silly, then sad and then silly again but honestly after a few days or even a week or so you will notice positive changes. Tiny at first but they’ll be there.
    Good luck and remember you already have an online community behind you!! - SUBSCRIBED 👍🏼

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you for the sub. I'm naturally an optimistic person despite the outside grumpiness 🤣

  • @kimlec3592
    @kimlec3592 10 месяцев назад +1

    You're very financially responsible. This is a good option if you can do it. Life isn't all about showing off how rich you are. Wishing you many safe & enjoyable adventures...live life while you can !

  • @lynnemarie7885
    @lynnemarie7885 Год назад +14

    I think it's amazing that you are just gonna try it out. Times are changing (and certainly not getting cheaper) I think people are waking up to the fact that there are options (for the adventurous) I think there is no shame and trying it out and if it doesn't work out, then you will know then, won't you? (Instead of thinking about it for years and never knowing what might have been) Good luck!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +5

      Thanks Lynne, I've definitely got to give it a go, at the very least, I'll have a story to tell!

  • @pebbles8022
    @pebbles8022 Год назад +6

    You do van life your way ! Too many people judge what van life should be.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you, that's a good point 🙂

  • @nillysbonsai9636
    @nillysbonsai9636 Год назад +5

    I know this feeling! Houses are continuous work and the reason you go to work for most us! Fair play and best of luck!

  • @irpky
    @irpky Год назад +10

    Good on you mate, I don't blame you as rents are ridiculous right now. I'm newly divorced and been renting this last year for the first time in year and I can't get over the bloody prices for some of the house round here (I'm Bradford based).
    Will be subscribing and looking forward to see how you get on with the van life 👍

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thanks Mark, all the best mate

  • @johnsouthern1493
    @johnsouthern1493 Год назад +7

    Take my hat off to you pal. Rents and mortgages are atrocious these days...even if you can pay for the roof over your head there's the energy and food which is now shocking. I really hope it works out for you and your kids mate.

  • @paraseek5623
    @paraseek5623 Год назад +4

    My Daughter & Partner lived in my old Van on my parents farm for a few years, then lived in a House, she said she was so much happier in the Van. Van was static. Van life definitely should be experienced by everyone.
    I had a another Vauxhall Vivaro (terrible vans) but it was lovely inside, my other daughter bought it off me, miss it so much. My intention was to live in it for most of the week. But I have too many dogs now to do it. I have a little Suzuki van (off the road atm) that I used to "stay out" in, with my Protective Guard Dog.
    I want to get some land (with a barn) asap to move on to (for my dogs)
    Hate living in a house.
    Good luck, u sound like u have great back ups. I have a couple of garages I rent for storage & parking Vehicles*, not got a loo or kitchen in tho. Might swap one for something like u have, ones very cheap £50 a month, for garage & parking in front, not far from where I'm living. I want to convert my house to flats (reasonably priced), rent out. Live Free somewhere . (Free as in not in a house)
    Van life will definitely be the future for a lot of ppl, "The own nothing, be happy" could be good for a lot of ppl. Possessions seem to own us. We just can't let the Lunatics own everything tho. Own Property, but Live Free, Spiritually, ppl are too Attached to Houses, things, having a Detrimental effect, we just need Bases (I think). Like the "Travelling Community" I do think we will be more like them soon, kids shouldn't be in Toxic schools past 11 yrs.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Great comment, thank you. You know what you're talking about! 😀👍

  • @ramblingrosie3762
    @ramblingrosie3762 Год назад +8

    It's always good to have a back up plan, you've got it covered. I don't think you will be the only one making decisions like this in these difficult times. You will have good days and bad days and really great days. You are never too old for a sea change. Good luck. BTW, I subscribed. Cheers from Australia 🇦🇺 👍

  • @BibtheBoulder
    @BibtheBoulder Год назад +4

    Good for you mate. Being a single guy with a huge maintenance bill and a house now owned by your ex stinks and until you have been in this situation it's hard to understand. Hope things work out for you..

  • @annebeginn2034
    @annebeginn2034 Год назад +3

    It’s a huge decision, it’s one I’ve toyed with for so long. I’m a Yorkshire lass born and bred but now live in beautiful Northumberland. I’ve had many a night in my Citroen c3 Picasso, made insulated window blinds for it. Had a camper in the past, I think another van may well be on the horizon.
    I’ve subbed up, wishing you all the best 👍

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thanks for the sub and good luck!

  • @sheenaakyol8227
    @sheenaakyol8227 Год назад +10

    Aw what a lovely video, so genuine and down to earth. You've made a wise decision, you'll save loads and be much happier, you are going to be so much better off financially. I'm already excited for you. You've got so many plusses in making this decision. Your unit will be a great place for you to store everything you don't want to get rid of and don't want to take with you full time. I have a T4 Hightop LWB which would be big enough for full time van life so you can make any van work. I'd say to make use of all the offers of showers, washing your clothes etc (unless you can do something in your unit). If you need a portable charger the Ecoflow range are brilliant, quick to recharge when they need it. You'll be OK, you really will and your daughter will love the adventures you go on. The van life community are really lovely, there are more and more joining all the time. I've just subscribed, I am looking forward to seeing all your videos. Take care and live your life for you and your children, not for paying the rent!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thanks for the lovely comment. I agree the van life community are great, so helpful. I've picked up loads of tips. My daughter can't wait to go on adventures 😊

    • @sheenaakyol8227
      @sheenaakyol8227 Год назад +1

      @By The Curb I bet she can't. I live in Pembrokeshire not far from Folly Farm, she would love it there (everyone does). There is loads to do in this area, if you are coming this way let me know and I'll send you some ideas. Take care 😊

  • @philliploco5037
    @philliploco5037 9 месяцев назад +1

    I think what you are doing Sir to survive England merits the utmost respect. I wish you and your family all the best. Ignore anyone who puts you down.

  • @jasoneden5651
    @jasoneden5651 Год назад +4

    Love your courage I'm from london and that's the crazy mentality everyones adopted we've become zombies to the system doing things out the box its whats needed

  • @fraserhine1511
    @fraserhine1511 Год назад +18

    Good for you mate. It takes guts to make a big change like this, I’m sure you will enjoy it and once you are settled you can start weekends away. All the best

  • @CalCrossley
    @CalCrossley Год назад +4

    Good on you mate, you do you! Live your life to how you see fit & forget other people's views.. All the best, hope it works out for you

  • @youtubian010
    @youtubian010 Год назад +1

    I converted my lwb sprinter into a campervan. Shower, kitchen, toilet, bed, u-shaped couch. They can definitely be very comfy and luxurious living. If your single or in a couple it can be a very comfortable way of living as long as you make a few changes to your way of living.

  • @myshellaatkinson730
    @myshellaatkinson730 Год назад +5

    How can gettin away from the clutches of evil, corrupt, greedy Councils ever be a bad thing 🤷‍♀️ You've 100% got all the makings of a great way of living and building your channel along the way, great move!! I for one will be 👀 and with any luck will also be a "van lifer" instead of a "house zero lifer" SOON AS!! This is gonna be wild!!

  • @traciesmith1464
    @traciesmith1464 Год назад +3

    With so many options to make life easier absolutely go for it, I wish I had it as easy when I did it I'd still be living in my van today, happiest I've been was van life back in the 90s

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thanks Im loving it so far!

  • @Camperjazz
    @Camperjazz Год назад +8

    Similar financial position after being widowed in 2021. I did 4 months car wild/camping last year and on returning to work and renting I’ve hated it, so this weekend I move into my car full time. I already know the ups and downs and limitations of car life but now it’s looming close I can’t wait, good luck with your journey, looks like you have back up options planned which is good.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Its a big step, but if you've done it before you'll get back into it in no time. Subbed to your channel so I can watch your journey. 🙂

    • @chrissymon
      @chrissymon Год назад

      @camperjazz. I reckon if you have a van, you need never be homeless. Necessity/invention etc. Ok until the bent government decide to outlaw vanlife. People in bricks & mortar can be 'controlled'.

  • @paulpurves484
    @paulpurves484 Год назад +1

    Lots of admiration for you good luck and I look forward to hearing of all your adventures you have with your kids.!!!

  • @pamelamckenzie2685
    @pamelamckenzie2685 Год назад +1

    I understand I been renting since 1995 and all landlords been crap my home always clean and well looked after rents going up all over the world and landlord dont do repairs there no one for us to support us in rented. Good on you with your van and may you enjoy every day. Love the video

  • @kimlinstead40
    @kimlinstead40 Год назад +8

    Amazing adventures for you and your family. So many memories to be made. X

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you, that's the plan 🙂

  • @jonathankeerie9129
    @jonathankeerie9129 Год назад +5

    Just about to start my vanlife journey soon myself. Got a LWB high roof sprinter. Looking forward to following your progress

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you. I'm a bit jealous of your big van!! 😂

  • @rattler9uk
    @rattler9uk 11 месяцев назад +1

    I’ve recently bought a motorhome and now live full time in! Can get lonely sometimes but I go on loads of holidays now and don’t regret it at all.

  • @betsiemathews7934
    @betsiemathews7934 Год назад

    Good on you!! Thinking out of the box! It gives great strength and shows character! Go well, enjoy your adventures with your daughter, she won’t forget them😀

  • @nightrain8127
    @nightrain8127 Год назад +4

    Good on ye pal , keep on keeping on , you sound like a guy that’ll find a way no matter what , sounds like you deserve a good turn too , go your way , and stay positive , best wishes 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

  • @LivingTheTinyLife
    @LivingTheTinyLife Год назад +8

    Absolutely love this! Why don’t you go one step further and perhaps get yourself a caravan and live on a campsite. We were in the same boat as you and bought a tiny house in 2020, lived on a campsite and our quality of life has improved significantly. Housing is so expensive that buying or renting is such a miserable way to live and more people should be looking outside the box! Hope everything goes well 👍

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +5

      Thank you, anything is possible 🙂

    • @h7283
      @h7283 Год назад

      They're making it illegal

  • @RSH352
    @RSH352 Год назад +2

    Great to see you going out of your comfort zone. Great goals. Start from small and you will make it very soon.

  • @bertiewooster3326
    @bertiewooster3326 Год назад +1

    My experienced tips......Save all your previous rent money....use supermarket toilets etc for dumping...find a number of safe locations ...rotate regularly...watch out for car park cameras that can fine you...... Keep low profile...get a friend for mail address .

  • @Bobby8270
    @Bobby8270 Год назад +4

    Hi bud. Just subbed. I’ve a T4. I live in a house. Im retired. Looking forward to be following you on your journey. I pray you’ll do well. Take care bud. 💪

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thanks mate, I appreciate that

    • @Bobby8270
      @Bobby8270 Год назад

      @@bythecurb. No problem. The missus and I just binged watched all your vids. You’re onto a winner bud. You and Bet make a crackin couple.
      I’m in the middle of refurbin my van on the inside. Ready for wild camping in the spring.

  • @ajmerriman2230
    @ajmerriman2230 Год назад +8

    This video fills me with so much joy and hope and "YES! Go on! Fair play, mate, I hear you completely!!!"
    I shared the exact experience as you regarding your landlord and the rented house you were living in. It's sickening that this is a totally legal practise that happens to thousands of renters across the UK, especially families (I'm a single mum of two kids with three cats, so while the van life really appeals, I'm not sure how I can actually do this yet, and am researching my options, hence finding your video and channel!).
    But I believe we are all being literally forced into impossible living situations so that we, as humans, can learn to adapt to our situations, and find better, more fulfilling ways of living. Thank you for sharing your unique experience and perspective on things, it's so helpful to those of us feeling these same feelings about the shittiness, monotony and rigidity that has become 21st century "living". I truly wish you and your daughter all the best and all the love and luck in the world on your adventures!

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +2

      Thank you so much, van life is about to become massive with more and more people choosing to opt out of the 'rat race'

    • @chrissymon
      @chrissymon Год назад +1

      @ajmerriman2230 Don't give up your dreams. "One day, Rodney"😛

    • @cryptidhunter9901
      @cryptidhunter9901 9 месяцев назад

      Not it is not merely about adapting, but rounding up the secret society criminals in power and putting them behind bars. How much longer do you think you can 'keep adapting'? When these demons see large numbers of people trying the van life, they will come along and try to make it illegal or slap crippling taxes on it (camping tax, campsite tax, park on the road side tax, bed inside the van tax, gas cooker inside the van tax etc). In other parts of the world they send the military, mercenaries etc and brutalize tribal communities, in an effort to drive them off their wilderness lands and into urban slums and force them to participate in the monetary rat race system to survive. This is ongoing in places like Brazil, Kenya, Congo, India etc

  • @thestreets5206
    @thestreets5206 Год назад +2

    It's my fourth week living in a campervan... loving every minute, wished I had of done it sooner . My outgoings will drop by £1200 per month ...

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Brilliant, glad it's going well

  • @GAZ_X
    @GAZ_X Год назад

    Good luck! I'm looking forward to seeing your adventures!

  • @growingupisatrap6688
    @growingupisatrap6688 Год назад +6

    Good on you pal, have considered it myself & have stayed in vans enough over many years, but never managed to do it full time yet! Looking forward to watching your journey, good luck 👊

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thank you, I appreciate you watching

  • @wyattfamily8997
    @wyattfamily8997 Год назад +2

    Just a suggestion, keep your eye out for a "roll out awning" which provides covered, water proof area to make up for what space is lacking internally when camping. Good luck, from Australia.

  • @paulmcgeever5343
    @paulmcgeever5343 Год назад +2

    I admire you for taking such a huge step backwards in one sense and being somebody who has seen my own rent go up by nearly 25% landlords are just rinsing tennants. I wish you all the best and hope you have some great adventures with your daughter !

  • @UndergroundOverground
    @UndergroundOverground Год назад +2

    You come across as a really nice down to earth honest guy.
    Remember "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger"
    The best of luck to you. Subscribed..........

  • @emmz_explorin6125
    @emmz_explorin6125 Год назад +4

    Good luck on your new lifestyle! I'll be doing exactly the same thing when it's time for me to move out of the house I'm living in atm. So exiting 😁 looking forward to watching your adventure unfold 😊👍

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thank you. Good luck with your move into van life when it happens 🙂

  • @TheLastSongbird124
    @TheLastSongbird124 Год назад +3

    Totally understand your decision given the situation you found yourself in, and lets face it, reaching that point of
    "why not" may not be a lifelong lifestyle but it's better than getting screwed over by all and sundry of today's UK.
    Sounds like your location 'options' could be the thing that makes it work? And, we are a long time dead :)
    Hope your ex landlord finds it impossible to let out the house...now that would be poetic justice :)
    Best of luck on this adventure :) Bet your daughter will love sleeping in the van?

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      The house is back up to let at £250 per month more!!

    • @TheLastSongbird124
      @TheLastSongbird124 Год назад +1

      @@bythecurb sad to say but with we humans greed always wins! Not wishing to be morbid but, I can't see us humans being around for another 1000 years or whatever, we don't have what it takes to stop it now?
      So, get the best out of life you can now :)

  • @peterjenkins7488
    @peterjenkins7488 Год назад +1

    Braver man than me all the best and will keep watching your vids to keep a check on your progress.

  • @markeaston5925
    @markeaston5925 Год назад

    Good luck with the van mate, and looking forward to more video updates

  • @garyconstant4234
    @garyconstant4234 Год назад +3

    Good luck fella and I can totally understand why you’re doing it, I’m sure there will be some tough times but I’m sure the good will outweigh the tougher times plus you’ll save a good amount of money and the pressure of renting will be over 👍

  • @terripinan1876
    @terripinan1876 Год назад +3

    Just found this today, love your honesty. Will be keeping an eye on what you do. Adventures with you children, just think of the memories that they will have, and I guess they will turn in "walkers" as you will be out and about seeing new places etc.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thank you, I'll keep trying to upload videos every week 🙂

  • @erolhassan5346
    @erolhassan5346 Год назад +1

    A very honest video. I wish you all the best

  • @ZigZagZig36
    @ZigZagZig36 Год назад +2

    Lovely to see how much your channels grown in short period of time! Love watching your videos man keep it up

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад

      Thanks, It's blown me away!

  • @call_in_sick
    @call_in_sick Год назад +5

    Totally with you mate. In a similar situation myself but without a van 😅
    Living costs are going insane. It’s near impossible to survive these days.
    New subscriber for you here. I wish you every success.

  • @alwaysinsideout
    @alwaysinsideout Год назад +3

    Glad you say it as it is.👍. No one ever thinks what they get, for what they have to spend out. If you get fed up in the van, try living on a boat, widebeam if you want the space. A narrowboat or motor boat. What ever you do I wish you all the best.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      Thank you, I appreciate the comment 🙂

  • @SianRussell
    @SianRussell 7 месяцев назад +1

    I don't blame you one bit, we dont live in our van but we love it & spend as much time as possible out & about in it. It brings out the best in us as a couple.
    Btw ours is an ambulance we bought on ebay & converted ourselves didnt cost much at all

  • @sugarsnap1578
    @sugarsnap1578 Год назад

    Good for you ! I hope the weather is good to you ,wish I could do it ,I’m envious .

  • @douglasdodds8490
    @douglasdodds8490 Год назад +3

    Subscribed and liked mate.Hope it goes alright for you and the best of luck,will be rooting my guts out for you.keep the faith.

    • @bythecurb
      @bythecurb  Год назад +1

      That's for the sub mate, appreciate it