I built a super cool mini camper with my 2006 Toyota sienna. It’s small but aesthetically beautiful inside and very comfortable because I carefully planned every detail in advance. In spite of the 200 watts of solar on top, it is stealth simply because no one suspects anyone would live in a Sienna. Living in coastal Southern California for now and have saved about $9000 in rent since I took the leap in June.
I was like that with kayaking. I had no friends into that and after a breakup I did a funyak alone, met people and changed my whole life. I've kayaked hundreds of miles of rivers. Hiked the AP and met amazing people. It's like lighting storms, floods, rats, skunks, long hard days, bad food and broke fingers but, good times all the same. Hope for the best, plan for the worst and go!
Hi Mariah, I just got on your channel for the first time...as an avowed introvert, newly alone since I lost my soulmate last year, I really enjoyed watching you enjoying the solo life. I am 81 years old and ready for some road-tripping in my SUV. Thank you for showing the way.
You're so special. I've been doing this 9 years..Authenticity comes across. You and Bob wells, are the only 2 I watch on regular basis. You have the courage to share your rambling mind( not a criticism, it's pure, improvised) and it is wonderful. I hope to head to states this winter.
To get rid of some of the moisture in your van, set the AC heat to the highest setting and keep it running for like half an hour. Helped me in my car. Found this on the web: "The car’s compressor does more than just cool the air before it passed through the car. You can use the a/c compressor while controlling the heat setting of the car to control the climate within. Doing so will help dehumidify the air, reducing fogged up windows. Running the air conditioner will also help clear up window condensation."
I have the Wind Chaser WHD-MP, which is an AC Mini Dehumidifier for small spaces. But of course storage space is always at a premium and the unit take 65 watts to remove 0.803 Pts per day.
YES! Great pointer. I "holed up" on I-80 last fall in western Wyoming at 9pm waiting for black ice to go away. Got up at 2am drove out of it...drove straight thru all the way to Dayton Ohio. 1500 miles, 23 hours. .
".. I was feeling like an introvert who had spent way too much time in the outside world" - as you blow across a lone piece of broccoli. That had me laughing. Thanks for sharing your innermost thoughts on your travels. I'm living vicariously through your posts until I can get myself up and running.
Just turn the car on then turn A/C on. Put the heating on high as the heat will evaporate the condensation/moisture from the air and surfaces in the van. The A/C will then get ride of the moisture/condensation from the air. Nice views and another lovely clip once again.
@@GlowmaticBikes Your right a very important thing too. I did find a very cheap hand anti-mould spray which you leave only for 3 minutes and wipe and all the mould is gone. I found it amazing as everything else didn't work.
Concerning the humidity problems, I definitely recommend the calcium chloride mosture absorbers. I use one for my RV (one with the big pebbles) It does marvels. From 77% humidity to 24% in a day. You just need to find a secure space to put it so it doesn't topple off while driving.
My first RUclips subscribe (yes, really) and comment (also, yes really) ... it brightens my day to see someone living their life and learning so much about themselves on the way. I wish I had your resolve at 21 for sure. Pushing 37 and you may have just persuaded me to take the plunge. Keep doing what you do and know we're all rooting for you. Thank you.
Loved it. Nice reality edit. No bells and whistles. No big epic anything…. Just real life on the road. Thanks for sharing!! Oh, the pup at full gallop in the mud… big smiles! :)
I love how self-aware and reflective you are & I can’t imagine how wonderful it must feel to be able to look back on these videos and watch yourself grow! 🤎
Another idea for the moisture - the diesel heater is dry heat. Turn it on low. If it blasts you out, crack a roof vent. The heat will go out the roof, and whatever residual moisture should go with it.
Hi Mariah: Still the best 12 minutes of each week hearing about your life! I love how freely you converse with us. Keep up the good work. Stay safe and be well. Best regards, Brad
Omg i know those small mountains with a few trees just on the way out of the hot tub. Slept there and met an interesting person definitely lolol ( its was cold at night) a cold memory. Cleaned that tub out by letting the little rubber out the bottom many times, more than that. Beautiful view unreal. Also had a bbq with someone best ribs ever! I had some of the best times meeting people, 3 I think hot springs out there. One right up the road and another one further in, a bit of a road, different hot springs and you can camp there for a while. I had so many awesome sunsets, great people, interesting exploring different hot tubs and places....I hope to get a new van next year OMG! part of me feels to excited...thanks to all the kind, considerate conversations, bbqs, hot tubing, awesome people out their all my thanks to you!!!!
I almost forget, so difficult now gas prices are3-4 and 5 dollars a gallon. I was in Canada the best time ever! and I was at the gas station and the air was weird, hes going to raise the gas prices I thought it was my imagination until I came back to the states. Maybe sometime we could travel together, I always wanted to drive the Alaskan highway (a bit scary alone) and Canada is soo very beautiful WOW..Thank you to all the kind and considerate people out there, you make everything beautiful more beautiful !!!
I just found your video by chance, and I'm glad I did. I have yet to learn how to flip a skillet properly!🤔 But you are in one of the best parts of CA. I have camped the eastern Sierra and visited Hot Creek as well. I was excited seeing the familiar places that you traveled. But as a So Cal resident, I envy you as I watched you in the rain. 🌧 I miss it so much. I turn on rain sound effects from RUclips to help put me to sleep. It still hasn't rained in Riverside yet this year! I'm a solo trucker who loves to travel, but I'm not good with the camera yet. So I think I'll subscribe to your channel, marvel at how cute you are, and enjoy your journeys with you. Again, I'm so glad that we crossed paths. ✝️ Be careful out there. 10-4👍🇺🇸
As much as I love your videos and hearing you try to make sense of your life and discussing your feelings, I am absolutely in love with Finn. He is the cutest dog on youtube. Stay safe and alert. Thanks
Nice to see Finn sleeping inside his pup tent @ 3:50. He looks so snugly bugly and cozy toasty in there. Glad your van is still leak free. Shhhhhh... don't say that too loud. 🚐 ☔
I am loving your wellness to get stuck in the snow, mud, rain, and spending alone time. Those would be my idea of normal. I enjoy people but they totally burn me out.
I'm a 54 year old chick from Germany, thinking about a fulltime van life. So, I'm watching tons of videos here about living in a van as a solo female and I came across your channel. Yes, I agree with some other comments here... Great content and authentic impressions. Sometimes it gets on my nerves when people want to make you believe, that van life is 24/7 fun.
I have a 2017 Ford transit also and the metal seam on the top has some factory glue that dries and splits , I took it up to Seattle on a trip before it was finished inside so I tested the roof metal to see if it leaks and it was dripping. A little silicone on the seam sealed it up and it hasn’t leaked in 3 years.
I look forward to your videos the way I used to look forward to letters in the mail from my best friend in junior high and high school. Yep, way older, but it was once a week and I love seeing what you're doing and how you're doing. Thank you for being brave to be vulnerable and honest and sharing with us. I hope you're well and enjoying rain somewhere.
Love LOVE! that your truth comes out about van life. The ups and downs of emotions, places and people...in the end you live life for YOU! Finding ourselves is a venture of it's own...
Just love the fact you have so much space & if you want to just be alone you can & some of those epic views, snow covered mountains, hot springs a desert here & there, living the dream. Do you actually realise how lucky you are, yes it can be lonely maybe a bit scary now and again you get to feel unsure of yourself, living in a metal box on wheels can be challenging, BUT you are still so damn lucky you & Finn. Take care, enjoy 😌
Mariah, I just stumbled on your channel. It reminds me of my carefree days when I was younger. I am 66 years old now and on my own again after 23 years with a great woman. So I have decided to go back to the days of my youth and travel even tho I am alone. My better half and I traveled all the time in a Ford pickup and a 34 foot fifth wheel. I don't need anything that big so a Diesel Sprinter Van is what I'll get. I have subscribed to follow (Stalk!) Lol, you on your adventures. I hope to put some of mine on here someday. Take Care and I hope I run into you someday out at a hot springs. Those are my hobby destinations.
Frankly, the only way to get better at driving in the snow is driving in the snow. I had the fortune of making many winter trips to Tahoe in my late teens and early twenties, so I got mountains and snow at the same time (in hindsight, probably not the best idea, but I was young and brimming with hubris). The best approach I've ever heard was from a friend who grew up in New Jersey: find a large empty parking lot that's covered with snow, and drive around in it, working on getting a feel for where the edges of control are for the vehicle. Unfortunately, I don't think there's any other way to really learn; much like learning to drive a manual transmission, you can read and watch and listen to instructions, but it's not really going to get you there until you get behind the wheel and do it. This is the internet, so I'm sure someone will point out how wrong I am about this, and impart to you some magical technique that doesn't require experience. And I sincerely hope that happens because the learning experience is...intense. Good luck and stay safe! I always love seeing your updates; thank you for sharing your adventures!!!
Life is ALL about how you look at it. Those coffee and tea comments made me think how awesome it was for you to get those experiences. Especially "the best coffee I've had in my life!" Well, learn from that! Make that coffee yourself. Or the tea. Build it as a part of your lifestyle. Take those things you find in this love that give you joy and PURPOSEFUL EXPERIENCE them. Live them!
Great contact. I always try to flip stuff in the pan so it’s nice to see you there I’m not the only one that may have something fly out of it. Be safe.
I enjoy your videos for a number of reasons but I guess #1 reason is that I can think about what I would do, if I were you 🙂. Thank you for sharing your experiences and your thoughts, and your sense of humor!
As a Floridian who wants to start vanlife, my biggest concerns are A) learning to drive in the snow. B) learning to drive in the snow... in an 3 TON VEHICLE 😬
Haha I was doing the same and my family from up north got mad at me. They said I'll only ever feel comfortable if I get out there and slip and slide all over the place. Yea, not looking forward to that 😬
As a Dutch guy driving once a year in snow: drive slowly, keep a lot of distance and minimize overtaking. And curse at the drivers that drive too fast. Oh, and go to an empty parking lot, drive slowly around and pull the handbrake. It's fun. But keep as far away as possible from obstacles. I managed to almost crash my car against a wall that way 😅
Sorry but laughs in Canadian. Seriously though. If you see snow, go into a big parking lot and break and go and you will see and realize that you do have to stop way in advance compare to usual and keep in mind that close to intersection very often there is black ice so break in advance and don't worry what others think
Love this, especially "I'm from California. Clearly." Me, too, and I laughed so hard at that, lol! That was a cool storm, for sure! Isn't it so nice to be alone and recharge? Thank you for posting again! ✌❤🎶🚙🚙
Everytime i watch your videos, i relate so much to all your emotional whirlwinds. I feel entrenched in the monotony of life and engage in a little escapism with your vids. Keep up tje good work.
just found your channel about a week ago or so. Havent watched all your videos but a good few handfuls of them. Very relaxing to watch you go on your adventures! I wanna make a van and travel! Glad you put in the good and the bad about van life, I feel it gives me a better understanding on what it might actually be like. :)
You pronounced it Lee V-in-ing. I used to fishing near there every summer and everyone I knew pronounced it Lee V-eye-ing. It's a tiny little town all right. I forgot it even existed until you mention it... and brought back fond memories.
I was definitely feeling that hot spring vibe! ❤️ Anytime I’m hiking I want as much isolation as I can get. Putting in some long and hard miles usually gets me there. 🤘🏼
Just got to your channel today. I have already watched two videos. This was my second. I going for the third. Nice to meet you! I’m Jesse by the way! Awesome videos!
Thank you for sharing your trip. I also self isolate sometimes. You are so courageous traveling everywhere! Please be safe out there! You are never alone. You have all of us!!
I just "happened" upon your channel and I'm really not sure why or how. As I listened to you talk and watched your facial expressions you remind me so much of my son (28 years old) . As a matter of fact, you are the female version of him. The personal issues you speak about, your episodes of anxiety and your desire to be around others while at the same time, your need to NOT be around others are all the characteristics my son has. I soon found myself watching other videos. It is truly uncanny how you two are identical. His dog is his life too. I believe he loves her more than us (his parents)
Lovely, very authentic video! 👍🏽😉 Regarding your worries about a leak that failed to turn up, I'd like to quote Mark Twain. He said, "I’ve suffered a great many catastrophes in my life. Most of them never happened." I've had to learn to stop worrying about things that in all likelihood will never come to pass. It made my life so much more enjoyable. All the best! 🙏🏽😎
I can relate to the burnout, feeling it from work lately... take it easy and slow down. Glad you did in the end. And also, I live in a converted ford transit too and I thank myself every night it rains that my roof vent isn't leaking yet. Fingers crossed for another leak free year for the both of us!
My mom took me there to camp and soak often when I was growing up 💗 back when hot creek was still open for swimming 😬😲 Such a magical place that I've missed so much. Thank you for taking me back there 😍
i just finished modding a mint toyota micro RV [now self contained, lithium,solar wifi etc..] to take to the west coast fir my first van-life experience. i get much inspiration from your vids and hope to document my travels as well as you have! stay safe!
I have been living in a truck as an owner/operator for 9 years. I just started making my own coffee in the truck about a year ago. I love it, you might also.
Okay, so I just binge watched a bunch of your videos and I let all the ads run. So you'll get an extra 28 cents this month! Yey!! Love your content btw :)
You will never be alone because so many people are following you, just know that every time you take to the camera I always watch and be with you in every moment. Send you love from Hawaii.
Yeah, I remember (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth) when I first drove in snow. I grew up in California too (Davis/Sacramento) so my first snow was driving up to to Donner Pass on 80 and required to carry chains! Fun!
We are a family who is enjoying Van Life in Korea. I saw your video while searching VanLife. The van looks very good because it's small and practical. Especially, the deep sink looks very good. I hope you have a fun van life.
To help reduce moisture inside your van, you can put a couple of ounces of Calcium Chloride (road salt) in a small plastic bucket. It'll help absorb the moisture from the air, and would help prevent your van from becoming moldy from too much moisture condensing everywhere :)
Love these van life videos. I have not seen any of yours, but I do really like this one. I know it must get lonely on the road, but it sounds like you have met quite a few people. That is important. Unfortunately, all of my family have chosen to "ignore" me. So there is no one on my side. I don't expect anything, when I write this down, as I do sometimes on someone else's video. I just like to put these things out there and see what happens. I think what you have is incredible. Enjoy.
Congratulations on your life style change and persistence; it is good to overcome hardships, while trying to attain your goal. You seem like a nice person, and I find myself fond of watching your videos. Surprisingly, I have lost track of time as the last couple of your videos have "rolled-through". I know the "lonely" and "low energy" feelings that you spoke of -- I have been working on my van build pretty much, every day, by myself, for about 5 years now. I would say planning takes as much effort and time as does the actually building part. I know the feeling of isolation -- and needing valuable resources -- heating, ventilation, water, cleansliness/good hygiene, space, organization, etc. Like you said, van life can potentially causes someone's maturity to develop 4 times as fast. It provides us a sense of the essentials. I get done with my building after an 11-hour day or so, and I am just "burnt" -- without energy for "nonsense". Cheers to you with your lifestyle change and I would say that you seem "bada##", all things considered.
I think what you are doing with your life at such a young age is cool an the memories you will always have is worth it . do not let stress or bad days ruin it enjoy every moment .take care an God bless.
Love those hotsprings! Next time go across the 395 and check out Lake Convict, there are some amazing hikes up to the mountain lakes and you can safely park your van at the hotel.
I love how genuine you are, it really comes across. And yeah driving in snow storms can be scary for sure! I love seeing your pup under your covers, that's what my little guys love as well :)
Look around Cali thrift shops (I found a bunch there due to "chain laws") for tire cables ....you have to buy them for your tire size specific. They can be a REAL life saver if it gets bad. I drove across the country and back in late fall 2020 I keep a full set (for all tires) of BOTH chains and cables in my custom rear box tube bumper. I paid $125 per pair for the cables and later found them at Cali thrift shops for $5-10. I look for the tire chains with "welded half links" ..much much better.
Great video. Was worried about you when that storm system hit the west coast late last month. Guess those snow tires do work! Your endeavors in exploring inspire me now that I’m on the road too.
I will forever believe that FINDING A HOT SPRING WHERE YOU CAN BE ALONE is one of the main joys of vanlife. Being outside, in a pool of warm water that you didn't have to pay or work to heat, for AS LONG AS YOU WANT - it is absolute bliss. If you are ever in central Utah, there is a hot spring in the middle of a cattle ranch, that the owner just lets people use. He has a donation box. I went there to warm up, and didn't leave for 4 days. It was MAGICAL.
I am impressed you keep on keeping-on. 👍 Video logging by itself, seems like it can / will take a toll on anyone. Thank you for another recorded adventure.
Your videos have become something special. I look forward to them, yet, I have to admit, I wait to watch them… It’s like a good book you don’t want to end… I watch the intro and then wait… well today I finally couldn’t wait any longer. You never disappoint. Your honesty is something missing in many people… great videography, the editing, the places you take us too… I still can’t do that flippy think with a pan… love the sound of the rain on the roof… and Fin! Thanks….
As a fellow traveler I can relate to all the emotions you go through. Like yourself, I too want to stay away from people most of the time. Although it's definitely nice coming across a buncha like minded individuals and making some new friends. Safe travels and enjoy the journey.
Definitely admire your perseverance with your travels. I've only gotten thru 9 states since April, 41 more to go once I start back up in March. The lonely isn't easy at times travelling by myself but I try to keep pushing thru. Watching some of your videos and how you get thru it all helps keep me motivated though. You're awesome as always.
Watching this video, I felt i was roaming around with you away in the wilderness away of my stressful shitty life for a moment.. Soothing effect.. Unfortunately, i live in a country very unsuitable to a van life..
You can get dehumidifying products, like damprid. It’s a container full of moisture absorbing granules that turn to liquid as they absorb the water from the air. It works really well.
Sometimes you find yourself in the middle of nowhere.And Sometimes in the middle of nowhere you find yourself.Take your time 💜
Nico😘😍
Damn, that’s mad deep. Ima remember that.
Well said 😎
I really got to stop living vicariously through these channels and take the leap.
Great content!
Do IT! Do it NOW!! 😉
Do you need some encouragement? It’s doable. Just stop watching videos, and start planning. Live your own life. Don’t compare yourself.
I built a super cool mini camper with my 2006 Toyota sienna. It’s small but aesthetically beautiful inside and very comfortable because I carefully planned every detail in advance. In spite of the 200 watts of solar on top, it is stealth simply because no one suspects anyone would live in a Sienna. Living in coastal Southern California for now and have saved about $9000 in rent since I took the leap in June.
It will be the best and worst experience at the same time, but enjoying nothingness in the middle of nowhere will change your life.
I was like that with kayaking. I had no friends into that and after a breakup I did a funyak alone, met people and changed my whole life. I've kayaked hundreds of miles of rivers. Hiked the AP and met amazing people. It's like lighting storms, floods, rats, skunks, long hard days, bad food and broke fingers but, good times all the same. Hope for the best, plan for the worst and go!
Hi Mariah, I just got on your channel for the first time...as an avowed introvert, newly alone since I lost my soulmate last year, I really enjoyed watching you enjoying the solo life. I am 81 years old and ready for some road-tripping in my SUV. Thank you for showing the way.
You're so special. I've been doing this 9 years..Authenticity comes across. You and Bob wells, are the only 2 I watch on regular basis. You have the courage to share your rambling mind( not a criticism, it's pure, improvised) and it is wonderful. I hope to head to states this winter.
To get rid of some of the moisture in your van, set the AC heat to the highest setting and keep it running for like half an hour. Helped me in my car.
Found this on the web:
"The car’s compressor does more than just cool the air before it passed through the car. You can use the a/c compressor while controlling the heat setting of the car to control the climate within. Doing so will help dehumidify the air, reducing fogged up windows. Running the air conditioner will also help clear up window condensation."
I have the Wind Chaser WHD-MP, which is an AC Mini Dehumidifier for small spaces. But of course storage space is always at a premium and the unit take 65 watts to remove 0.803 Pts per day.
Hey Mariah... please research "black ice" as well, it happens in the same temps as snow and can be even more dangerous.
Highway overpasses and bridges are terrible for black ice.
YES! Great pointer. I "holed up" on I-80 last fall in western Wyoming at 9pm waiting for black ice to go away. Got up at 2am drove out of it...drove straight thru all the way to Dayton Ohio. 1500 miles, 23 hours. .
Your driving and taking your eyes off the road in those conditions, even for a split second, scared us a little bit.
".. I was feeling like an introvert who had spent way too much time in the outside world" - as you blow across a lone piece of broccoli. That had me laughing. Thanks for sharing your innermost thoughts on your travels. I'm living vicariously through your posts until I can get myself up and running.
Just turn the car on then turn A/C on.
Put the heating on high as the heat will evaporate the condensation/moisture from the air and surfaces in the van.
The A/C will then get ride of the moisture/condensation from the air.
Nice views and another lovely clip once again.
Should help keep out mold as well, which would be very hard to get rid of (speaking from experience)
@@GlowmaticBikes Your right a very important thing too. I did find a very cheap hand anti-mould spray which you leave only for 3 minutes and wipe and all the mould is gone. I found it amazing as everything else didn't work.
Concerning the humidity problems, I definitely recommend the calcium chloride mosture absorbers.
I use one for my RV (one with the big pebbles) It does marvels. From 77% humidity to 24% in a day.
You just need to find a secure space to put it so it doesn't topple off while driving.
My first RUclips subscribe (yes, really) and comment (also, yes really) ... it brightens my day to see someone living their life and learning so much about themselves on the way. I wish I had your resolve at 21 for sure. Pushing 37 and you may have just persuaded me to take the plunge. Keep doing what you do and know we're all rooting for you. Thank you.
Loved it.
Nice reality edit. No bells and whistles. No big epic anything…. Just real life on the road. Thanks for sharing!!
Oh, the pup at full gallop in the mud… big smiles! :)
I love how self-aware and reflective you are & I can’t imagine how wonderful it must feel to be able to look back on these videos and watch yourself grow! 🤎
You're the best person, I always love watching your videos and I really connect with you and your life. Just thanks
Holy crap you freaked me out when you put up that RIP graphic...until I realized it was for the RV. I need some coffee...
Another idea for the moisture - the diesel heater is dry heat. Turn it on low. If it blasts you out, crack a roof vent. The heat will go out the roof, and whatever residual moisture should go with it.
Hi Mariah: Still the best 12 minutes of each week hearing about your life! I love how freely you converse with us. Keep up the good work. Stay safe and be well. Best regards, Brad
Why did this video make me cry .she like a friend you can just listen to for hours,,, sorry for your loss 🙏🏼 safe travels
Omg i know those small mountains with a few trees just on the way out of the hot tub. Slept there and met an interesting person definitely lolol ( its was cold at night) a cold memory. Cleaned that tub out by letting the little rubber out the bottom many times, more than that. Beautiful view unreal. Also had a bbq with someone best ribs ever! I had some of the best times meeting people, 3 I think hot springs out there. One right up the road and another one further in, a bit of a road, different hot springs and you can camp there for a while. I had so many awesome sunsets, great people, interesting exploring different hot tubs and places....I hope to get a new van next year OMG! part of me feels to excited...thanks to all the kind, considerate conversations, bbqs, hot tubing, awesome people out their all my thanks to you!!!!
I almost forget, so difficult now gas prices are3-4 and 5 dollars a gallon. I was in Canada the best time ever! and I was at the gas station and the air was weird, hes going to raise the gas prices I thought it was my imagination until I came back to the states. Maybe sometime we could travel together, I always wanted to drive the Alaskan highway (a bit scary alone) and Canada is soo very beautiful WOW..Thank you to all the kind and considerate people out there, you make everything beautiful more beautiful !!!
I just found your video by chance, and I'm glad I did. I have yet to learn how to flip a skillet properly!🤔 But you are in one of the best parts of CA. I have camped the eastern Sierra and visited Hot Creek as well. I was excited seeing the familiar places that you traveled. But as a So Cal resident, I envy you as I watched you in the rain. 🌧 I miss it so much. I turn on rain sound effects from RUclips to help put me to sleep. It still hasn't rained in Riverside yet this year! I'm a solo trucker who loves to travel, but I'm not good with the camera yet. So I think I'll subscribe to your channel, marvel at how cute you are, and enjoy your journeys with you. Again, I'm so glad that we crossed paths. ✝️ Be careful out there. 10-4👍🇺🇸
As much as I love your videos and hearing you try to make sense of your life and discussing your feelings, I am absolutely in love with Finn. He is the cutest dog on youtube. Stay safe and alert. Thanks
Nice to see Finn sleeping inside his pup tent @ 3:50. He looks so snugly bugly and cozy toasty in there. Glad your van is still leak free. Shhhhhh... don't say that too loud. 🚐 ☔
I've sat in that very hot spring many times over the years. Used to live in Bishop and June Lake. The Eastern Sierra is my favorite playground.
I am loving your wellness to get stuck in the snow, mud, rain, and spending alone time. Those would be my idea of normal. I enjoy people but they totally burn me out.
I'm a 54 year old chick from Germany, thinking about a fulltime van life. So, I'm watching tons of videos here about living in a van as a solo female and I came across your channel.
Yes, I agree with some other comments here... Great content and authentic impressions.
Sometimes it gets on my nerves when people want to make you believe, that van life is 24/7 fun.
I have a 2017 Ford transit also and the metal seam on the top has some factory glue that dries and splits , I took it up to Seattle on a trip before it was finished inside so I tested the roof metal to see if it leaks and it was dripping. A little silicone on the seam sealed it up and it hasn’t leaked in 3 years.
I look forward to your videos the way I used to look forward to letters in the mail from my best friend in junior high and high school. Yep, way older, but it was once a week and I love seeing what you're doing and how you're doing. Thank you for being brave to be vulnerable and honest and sharing with us. I hope you're well and enjoying rain somewhere.
I have grown to look forward to your words of wonder each week. You are doing what many only fantasize about. Best wishes from New. York. State
Love LOVE! that your truth comes out about van life. The ups and downs of emotions, places and people...in the end you live life for YOU! Finding ourselves is a venture of it's own...
Just love the fact you have so much space & if you want to just be alone you can & some of those epic views, snow covered mountains, hot springs a desert
here & there, living the dream. Do you actually realise how lucky you are, yes it can be lonely maybe a bit scary now and again you get to feel unsure of
yourself, living in a metal box on wheels can be challenging, BUT you are still so damn lucky you & Finn. Take care, enjoy 😌
Mariah, I just stumbled on your channel. It reminds me of my carefree days when I was younger. I am 66 years old now and on my own again after 23 years with a great woman. So I have decided to go back to the days of my youth and travel even tho I am alone. My better half and I traveled all the time in a Ford pickup and a 34 foot fifth wheel. I don't need anything that big so a Diesel Sprinter Van is what I'll get. I have subscribed to follow (Stalk!) Lol, you on your adventures. I hope to put some of mine on here someday. Take Care and I hope I run into you someday out at a hot springs. Those are my hobby destinations.
Mariah your videos are refreshing and inspiring for sure. The "bloopers" fit perfectly at the end. Love'em
Frankly, the only way to get better at driving in the snow is driving in the snow. I had the fortune of making many winter trips to Tahoe in my late teens and early twenties, so I got mountains and snow at the same time (in hindsight, probably not the best idea, but I was young and brimming with hubris). The best approach I've ever heard was from a friend who grew up in New Jersey: find a large empty parking lot that's covered with snow, and drive around in it, working on getting a feel for where the edges of control are for the vehicle. Unfortunately, I don't think there's any other way to really learn; much like learning to drive a manual transmission, you can read and watch and listen to instructions, but it's not really going to get you there until you get behind the wheel and do it.
This is the internet, so I'm sure someone will point out how wrong I am about this, and impart to you some magical technique that doesn't require experience. And I sincerely hope that happens because the learning experience is...intense. Good luck and stay safe! I always love seeing your updates; thank you for sharing your adventures!!!
Just make sure there are no concrete parking space dividers hiding under the snow! Or you'll blow a tire while practicing your snow driving.
Life is ALL about how you look at it. Those coffee and tea comments made me think how awesome it was for you to get those experiences. Especially "the best coffee I've had in my life!" Well, learn from that! Make that coffee yourself. Or the tea. Build it as a part of your lifestyle. Take those things you find in this love that give you joy and PURPOSEFUL EXPERIENCE them. Live them!
Great contact. I always try to flip stuff in the pan so it’s nice to see you there I’m not the only one that may have something fly out of it. Be safe.
I’m glad you made it through the snowstorm and had some quiet time at the hot springs.
Glad you got to take a breather. Rain on a metal roof is my pace in life. That's why I have one on my house. Looming forward to those night in the van
It’s great to hear you’re planning to explore outside California. It’s a whole different world out there! Go for it!
I enjoy your videos for a number of reasons but I guess #1 reason is that I can think about what I would do, if I were you 🙂. Thank you for sharing your experiences and your thoughts, and your sense of humor!
As a Floridian who wants to start vanlife, my biggest concerns are A) learning to drive in the snow. B) learning to drive in the snow... in an 3 TON VEHICLE 😬
I’ve been binge watching so much RUclips for how to drive in the snow and I am still madly concerned
Haha I was doing the same and my family from up north got mad at me. They said I'll only ever feel comfortable if I get out there and slip and slide all over the place. Yea, not looking forward to that 😬
That's why when it gets cold and threat of snow I go where it doesn't snow. And when hot I go where it is cooler....
As a Dutch guy driving once a year in snow: drive slowly, keep a lot of distance and minimize overtaking. And curse at the drivers that drive too fast.
Oh, and go to an empty parking lot, drive slowly around and pull the handbrake. It's fun. But keep as far away as possible from obstacles. I managed to almost crash my car against a wall that way 😅
Sorry but laughs in Canadian. Seriously though. If you see snow, go into a big parking lot and break and go and you will see and realize that you do have to stop way in advance compare to usual and keep in mind that close to intersection very often there is black ice so break in advance and don't worry what others think
Love this, especially "I'm from California. Clearly." Me, too, and I laughed so hard at that, lol! That was a cool storm, for sure! Isn't it so nice to be alone and recharge? Thank you for posting again! ✌❤🎶🚙🚙
Everytime i watch your videos, i relate so much to all your emotional whirlwinds. I feel entrenched in the monotony of life and engage in a little escapism with your vids. Keep up tje good work.
Thanks for another excellent video. My English bulldog hears your voice and comes over to see Finn.
You’re adorable! TY for bringing me joy. I swear if I ever see you, I’m going to throw my arms around you and give you the biggest hug ever!
Great share! Love the snow!! Thank you for sharing!
just found your channel about a week ago or so. Havent watched all your videos but a good few handfuls of them. Very relaxing to watch you go on your adventures! I wanna make a van and travel! Glad you put in the good and the bad about van life, I feel it gives me a better understanding on what it might actually be like. :)
You pronounced it Lee V-in-ing. I used to fishing near there every summer and everyone I knew pronounced it Lee V-eye-ing. It's a tiny little town all right. I forgot it even existed until you mention it... and brought back fond memories.
I was definitely feeling that hot spring vibe! ❤️
Anytime I’m hiking I want as much isolation as I can get. Putting in some long and hard miles usually gets me there. 🤘🏼
That was great, thanks Mariah, very well edited, real, and funny bloopers.
Just got to your channel today. I have already watched two videos. This was my second. I going for the third. Nice to meet you! I’m Jesse by the way! Awesome videos!
Thank you for sharing your trip. I also self isolate sometimes. You are so courageous traveling everywhere! Please be safe out there! You are never alone. You have all of us!!
im really glad you leave the bloopers in at the end those are a gem in itself
I just "happened" upon your channel and I'm really not sure why or how. As I listened to you talk and watched your facial expressions you remind me so much of my son (28 years old) . As a matter of fact, you are the female version of him. The personal issues you speak about, your episodes of anxiety and your desire to be around others while at the same time, your need to NOT be around others are all the characteristics my son has. I soon found myself watching other videos. It is truly uncanny how you two are identical. His dog is his life too. I believe he loves her more than us (his parents)
Lovely, very authentic video! 👍🏽😉
Regarding your worries about a leak that failed to turn up, I'd like to quote Mark Twain. He said, "I’ve suffered a great many catastrophes in my life. Most of them never happened." I've had to learn to stop worrying about things that in all likelihood will never come to pass. It made my life so much more enjoyable. All the best! 🙏🏽😎
Lee Vining and Bridgeport have about the highest gas prices in the eastern Sierra. But, they're beautiful areas so it's worth it!
I can relate to the burnout, feeling it from work lately... take it easy and slow down. Glad you did in the end. And also, I live in a converted ford transit too and I thank myself every night it rains that my roof vent isn't leaking yet. Fingers crossed for another leak free year for the both of us!
Nico😍
My mom took me there to camp and soak often when I was growing up 💗 back when hot creek was still open for swimming 😬😲 Such a magical place that I've missed so much. Thank you for taking me back there 😍
You handled that well for a first timer you stayed calm and steady.
i just finished modding a mint toyota micro RV [now self contained, lithium,solar wifi etc..] to take to the west coast fir my first van-life experience.
i get much inspiration from your vids and hope to document my travels as well as you have! stay safe!
Thank you for the video. I can't wait for the next show.
Mariah...don't worry you are doing just fine..Enjoy!
Head South to warmer conditions.
You thinking if that qualified as a shower and your expression, cracked me up. Love ur sense of humour
I’m an extrovert who has learned to enjoy his own company by motorcycling solo for decades. Felling blessed for sure. Love your musings.
I have been living in a truck as an owner/operator for 9 years. I just started making my own coffee in the truck about a year ago. I love it, you might also.
Too bad Deanna and I don't have the modified Earthship house built just yet! You are only a few miles away from us! Be safe and have great travels!!
Okay, so I just binge watched a bunch of your videos and I let all the ads run. So you'll get an extra 28 cents this month! Yey!! Love your content btw :)
I'm just blown away by your ability to make every week into yet another great story with ups and downs. Lover you, see ya next week❤❤
Subscribed! After watch almost 5 hours str8 of your videos! Love them and also you are so genuine
"Californians are dramatic"
"What was that noise"
ahhahhhaahahaha
Nice One lady! On the road in my rv for 4 months now. My dog is the only company I have. Good to hear your feelings on the company issue. Thank you!
You will never be alone because so many people are following you, just know that every time you take to the camera I always watch and be with you in every moment. Send you love from Hawaii.
Yeah, I remember (back when dinosaurs roamed the earth) when I first drove in snow. I grew up in California too (Davis/Sacramento) so my first snow was driving up to to Donner Pass on 80 and required to carry chains! Fun!
We are a family who is enjoying Van Life in Korea. I saw your video while searching VanLife. The van looks very good because it's small and practical. Especially, the deep sink looks very good. I hope you have a fun van life.
Yeah, I love driving in the rain feeling all warm and dry and safe (even though I might not be all that safe ☺)
pulled into California yesterday and saw the gas prices with no previous awareness and just sat for a few minutes to ponder
I'm so glad to have you as my friend from distance. I love your channel & your furry friend! 🧡🌎
I love your channel. I’m an introvert too, it’s such a great assurance to watch how you go through life. You are an awesome content creator.
Love the view of the hot springs with the van behind and the rays of the sun shining down, then the rain! So cool!
the casual reading in the hot springs was such a vibe!
To help reduce moisture inside your van, you can put a couple of ounces of Calcium Chloride (road salt) in a small plastic bucket. It'll help absorb the moisture from the air, and would help prevent your van from becoming moldy from too much moisture condensing everywhere :)
Love these van life videos. I have not seen any of yours, but I do really like this one. I know it must get lonely on the road, but it sounds like you have met quite a few people. That is important. Unfortunately, all of my family have chosen to "ignore" me. So there is no one on my side. I don't expect anything, when I write this down, as I do sometimes on someone else's video. I just like to put these things out there and see what happens. I think what you have is incredible. Enjoy.
Congratulations on your life style change and persistence; it is good to overcome hardships, while trying to attain your goal. You seem like a nice person, and I find myself fond of watching your videos. Surprisingly, I have lost track of time as the last couple of your videos have "rolled-through". I know the "lonely" and "low energy" feelings that you spoke of -- I have been working on my van build pretty much, every day, by myself, for about 5 years now. I would say planning takes as much effort and time as does the actually building part. I know the feeling of isolation -- and needing valuable resources -- heating, ventilation, water, cleansliness/good hygiene, space, organization, etc. Like you said, van life can potentially causes someone's maturity to develop 4 times as fast. It provides us a sense of the essentials. I get done with my building after an 11-hour day or so, and I am just "burnt" -- without energy for "nonsense". Cheers to you with your lifestyle change and I would say that you seem "bada##", all things considered.
I think what you are doing with your life at such a young age is cool an the memories you will always have is worth it . do not let stress or bad days ruin it enjoy every moment .take care an God bless.
Love those hotsprings! Next time go across the 395 and check out Lake Convict, there are some amazing hikes up to the mountain lakes and you can safely park your van at the hotel.
I love how genuine you are, it really comes across. And yeah driving in snow storms can be scary for sure! I love seeing your pup under your covers, that's what my little guys love as well :)
Look around Cali thrift shops (I found a bunch there due to "chain laws") for tire cables ....you have to buy them for your tire size specific. They can be a REAL life saver if it gets bad. I drove across the country and back in late fall 2020 I keep a full set (for all tires) of BOTH chains and cables in my custom rear box tube bumper. I paid $125 per pair for the cables and later found them at Cali thrift shops for $5-10. I look for the tire chains with "welded half links" ..much much better.
Mariah I don't know what hookups you have, but you could get a small dehumidifier for that moisture in your van @ Amazon.
keep your vlogs up to date! loving your videos everytime keep it up!
You have a beautiful & somewhat fragile soul. Honest vlog.
The opossum in the hammock at 3:46 is like "Turn off the damn light-buy a Kindle! Sheesh, can't an opossum get some frickin' sleep around here?!".
Great video. Was worried about you when that storm system hit the west coast late last month. Guess those snow tires do work! Your endeavors in exploring inspire me now that I’m on the road too.
Chapter: Winter & Rain
Awesome video 👍🏼😁🤙🏼
When I imagine myself living in my van this is what I always wish for. Thanks for sharing. Sage travels!
The outtakes at the end are wonderful! =^..^=
I will forever believe that FINDING A HOT SPRING WHERE YOU CAN BE ALONE is one of the main joys of vanlife. Being outside, in a pool of warm water that you didn't have to pay or work to heat, for AS LONG AS YOU WANT - it is absolute bliss. If you are ever in central Utah, there is a hot spring in the middle of a cattle ranch, that the owner just lets people use. He has a donation box. I went there to warm up, and didn't leave for 4 days. It was MAGICAL.
I am impressed you keep on keeping-on. 👍 Video logging by itself, seems like it can / will take a toll on anyone. Thank you for another recorded adventure.
Your videos have become something special. I look forward to them, yet, I have to admit, I wait to watch them… It’s like a good book you don’t want to end… I watch the intro and then wait… well today I finally couldn’t wait any longer. You never disappoint. Your honesty is something missing in many people… great videography, the editing, the places you take us too… I still can’t do that flippy think with a pan… love the sound of the rain on the roof… and Fin! Thanks….
I'm from California too and I remember my first snow storm drive. Such a gnarly experience. Definitely not something, most of us, are used to.
As a fellow traveler I can relate to all the emotions you go through.
Like yourself, I too want to stay away from people most of the time. Although it's definitely nice coming across a buncha like minded individuals and making some new friends.
Safe travels and enjoy the journey.
Definitely admire your perseverance with your travels. I've only gotten thru 9 states since April, 41 more to go once I start back up in March. The lonely isn't easy at times travelling by myself but I try to keep pushing thru. Watching some of your videos and how you get thru it all helps keep me motivated though. You're awesome as always.
Watching this video, I felt i was roaming around with you away in the wilderness away of my stressful shitty life for a moment.. Soothing effect.. Unfortunately, i live in a country very unsuitable to a van life..
You can get dehumidifying products, like damprid. It’s a container full of moisture absorbing granules that turn to liquid as they absorb the water from the air. It works really well.