Hey Mystery, I'm a homeowner and 2-job 70 hour worker (paying off the debts to the MAN!). If I saw you parking overnight in my neighbor hood and you stick out, my concern would merely be 'I don't know you' and that's really it. No lifestyle judgement here, to each his own. Every neighborhood in the US (pretty much) has break-ins and the neighbors talk and keep an eye out afterwards, chalk it up to tactical awareness, not judgement. Now... if I met you and you told me your game, you might just get invited to use a driveway during the day when you need it. I'm kinda envious of the van dwellers. Stay mysterious my friend.
One type of stealth I never hear talked about is one I used for several years and it never failed - I had my step van lettered on both sides and back "SIGN PAINTER" along with various incidental copy . If in a city , I would camp in industrial or commercial areas right on the street , and not only did I fit in , but attracted no police or any contrary attention , all the while , I was inside cozy as can be ! Commercial areas and office blocks become very quiet at night , till the dumpster squad came around in the morning , but it wasn't too bad !
I'm just getting started living in a Dodge G. Caravan with my beautiful dog, Shasta. Your channel has been a tremendous help. I'm trying to keep my van in a mode that lends to stealth camping, but don't know how that is going to work out, since Shasta likes to sleep in the front seat which is in front of the black-out curtain, a dead give-away that it's not just a parked van.
TomN76 I covered that in my pros and cons of Living in a van on the road video. I thought it would be redundant add that information here as well. thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :)
Dan I couldn't find your videos a while ago. I was looking for "prophets of vandom" (good book title btw) but It looked like you took it down? Anyways happy travels. Mystery 13 I've been watchin you a lot. Keep up the good work.
As a former C-Class RV owner, I can definitely identify with the appeal of a stealth van. I especially like that your vehicle has side windows - making it that much more stealthy!
my brother is been a manager at multiple walmarts for the last few years and he said you can "stay in your vehicle and not move it for up to 30 days before they ask you to leave" he said that he sees the same people every couple months because they just stay at walmart for 3-4weeks then go to another walmart or other store. then come back.
Thanks for the videos I like the van travel action. Astro van is a great choice I considered it my self but could not find a cheap one. I would of wanted to get a roof rack that could hide a solar panel and big roof vent with fantastic fan. I have to watch the rest of your videos, they are good, when I have time. Then I would probley know if you have already considered these ideas to improve your stealth camper. A portable solar suit case is more stealth & you can just put it in the sun out side the van while parked in the shade. You can just point a DC fan out the window on hot days to blow the heat out.k Also DC fridge cooler, solar shower, little buddy heater & bed that folds into couch or back fold up in to recliner. My truck had room for a second battery in the engine that has been great for me. Works good if you do a lot of driving. Plus I plug another battery I keep in the back bed of my truck for a small inverter in to my trailer plug under my back bumper. If I ever need a new alternators I am going to pay a little extra for a high out put alternator that will charge all my batteries faster then the one on there now. Keep on rolling. T
Thanks! My solar panel sits flush with the factory roof rack, so that worked out perfectly for me. It must be nice to have all that room under the hood. Everything is very tight with this little hand. The little buddy is great! High amp alternator all the way. Thanks again!
Misery loves company. If you don't buy into what someone else believes is right you are wrong. That is why the guy who works all week doesn't want someone that has it "easy" around them. Not that they are wrong, but neither are you for enjoying your time on earth.
great video. i just came across your videos and like what i wachted so i have subscribed. i too live in a mini van for the last year and a half. and love it. i go any where i want. lol im just a mini van.
im going to try and set up some pics of my van. not sure how to do that yet or where to put them for van people can check them out. its a 2006 pontic montana. iv put in tv,mickovave two buner stove, gas or elec. portapotty. i live in alberta canada. right now im on vancouver island. ill be all over the states 2016. love to meet other van dewelers. take care
this is some good info buddy. once more, good video. I am all most finished with my van. their are a few things I am going to wait to complete when I get to Az. well take care bro. Tank Underwood
Van dwelling is (in my humble opinion) our human right. To live free and in a manner we choose that doesn't impede or interfere with others, Unfortunately, the members of the very system we want to be free from, don't like it, and will sometimes try to impede or interfere with you. This is an attack on our human rights at worst or discrimination at best. Van dwelling needs to be seen as a legitimate life choice.
Don't know if you are in Europe but in here is forbidden to left towing trailers on public places or road ditch, only camping grounds or expressed authorized places. Boondocking only with motorhomes. In America people have much more freedom.
I'm thinking of doing this. I think Ive always really wanted too. I just bought a house last year and it really hasn't made me happier other than not having a landlord. But I currently rent out my basement and could probably rent out the upstairs then move into a van myself or sell the house. But if I wanted to park somewhere Id just go to an industrial or commercial area. No one will notice another white van around the other ones there plus no one is really around in the evening.
industrial? and commercial? Cops come-security comes... Those areas are high security and they instantly jump on you cause they think your doing Break ions or crime....The biggest thing? is be cool dont in and out a lot never ever leave garbage or use the area your parked in as a Toilet. Just respect and you'll be good. Did it when I was 22-Best 2 years my life.
Tanx! i am balanced between stealth and let-it-all-hang-out. Methinks i should err in favour of stealth... Good video and i appreciate the thoughts. Be safe!
You could bolt down a big locking truck tool box under your bed or smaller ones any where in the van as they come in all different sizes to secure your valuables.
Hey friend,I can echo your sentiments about people's paranoia about people living in a van...Folks always ask me"what happened,why are you homeless"? ...I'M NOT HOMELESS...I chose a simpler lifestyle.I fell in love with the tiny house movement but never felt like that was a viable option for me but my chevy express houses everything I need..also I'd like to encourage older people to try this before you can't dream anymore...it's very freeing to realize you don't need all your crap...Your van is a bit more tidy than mine but I'm getting there...
Great talk and good points. Personally I have always preferred a fence-side or shrub-side spot on a quiet public road in the right kind of neighborhood (working class with cargo vans everywhere) over commercial lots (private property). Next to duplex or small apartment buildings. If I had an RV or cargo trailer I would probably favor the lots. On a side note, you remind me of a young Anthony Kiedis. I'm sure you've heard it before, but it is a compliment. I think the Chili Peppers are still badass!
Into The Mystery 13 Nah. The cars blend in and die down when it gets late. I am talking about roads with low speed limits so no rockin. Now I HAVE heard some drunks. haha Voices outside the van always make my spidey sense tingle, and I thought I was gonna have to call the cops or intervene once when it sounded like this lady was about to get hit by some dude.
Into The Mystery 13 Your van can blend in anywhere. Even though it's a passenger model it looks like the cargo model at a glance because it's white. Sweet ride. I haven't caught up enough yet to see if your misfires are resolved but I hope so!
Yeah the bike on the roof is the only non-stealth thing I have. The misfires are not resolved yet, but I'm doing a ton of work on it tomorrow, and hopefully it'll be running like a champ, I'm almost out of possible causes :)
I decided to live in my van for the next year. I lived in my car for a couple of months once many years ago, but no one knew because I think I got the natural instinct for not oozing helpless or homeless. So I'm going to do it the next year to save up a shit-ton of money. Good to see others out there. Right on.
+VideoMenu Are you going to be staying in one place? If so it seems like you ought to be able to find a cheap dog watcher on craigslist or through a friend. If not, maybe stay in cool locations, park in the shade, and keep all windows cracked with a couple fans running. Best of luck to you!
+Into The Mystery 13 - Yeah, same place. I work at a college and have full 24 hr access to the building I work in (outside access with restroom) and have a big closet storage area where I'll lock up my clothes and we have our mini fridge and freezer back there. I found out the post office now lets you write your PO Box as a street address so I don't have to even tell anyone who like to feign worry. And I'm putting most of my belongings in self-storage (selling it off as the year goes on). I'll come inside the school at night which won't be a problem because I'm not obnoxious and know how to be stealth, not causing people to notice me (unlike entitled people who end up in hot water because they take up more space than 1 person should). And the school is used to people being there around the clock. In the day time we'll sleep and lounge in the van. It's just those few hours a day that I have to go inside to work I'll have a problem with--no way I can leave them barking in the car on campus. A day sitter is probably what I'll go with. Thanks for the encouragement! I am REALLY excited about this. But I can't tell anyone because they won't understand and think I'm in trouble and need rescuing. lol
Great talk! I agree with you people are very intolerant of those who live differently. Maybe it is jealousy or just bitterness stemming from their very unhappy lives in the rat race. Anyway, you're in the right! Travel safe and keep us posted about your life on the road. Cheers from France!
+Hubert BARIL I doubt that it has much to do with people that "live differently". I think people just want to feel safe in their homes/neighborhoods. You basically have a stranger who has set up camp next to your front yard. Someone that is literally in a get away vehicle AND trying to hide the fact that they are in the van. It would take them seconds to snatch a kid or something like that and take off. You may know you aren't there to do stuff like that, but how are they to know? Think of it this way... when is the last time you intentionally picked a high crime area to stealth camp in? Most likely never? Why not? Because you want to feel safe. Why shouldn't those that live in the houses you park next to have the same right? Btw, I stealth camp also. So, I'm not against it. I just think we need to keep stuff like this in mind when we do it. Most people are not hating on us for doing it... they are usually just concerned for their own families and their neighbors.
Then there are the bad parts, you don't ever miss having running water or a bathroom? Then the other things like a small kitchen or some room. I really like the new rig Just Credible has.
+TomN76 I covered that in my pros and cons of Living in a van on the road video. I thought it would be redundant add that information here as well. thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :)
I have a lot of respect for you. I'm from the UK and he prices in London are outrageous. £500 a month gets you a parking space and £700 a month gets you a house share - not worth sacrificing half of my salary for a poor standard of living. I am hoping to buy a van conversion like you; I'd feel a lot more comfortable people not thinking I'm taking advantage. Just some questions: 1) Do you use a generator for electricity or does the van's battery suffice? 2) Where do you go to shower? 3) Do have a hob?
+Jake Wrightson i have an auxiliary battery powered by a solar panel and battery isolator, i shower at the gym, and work traditional jobs, do photography work, run a website, get adsense revenue fron that and this channel, am an amazon affiliate, and have a patreon account
I would have some waterproof magnetic signs that would say, "BOOK MOBILE" and park in library parking lots or public schools. Or a sign that said "CRIME SCENE UNIT" and park at police departments! They would never think to look for you there... and who would attack you or bother you right in a nest of cops. Or a sign that said "PARKS MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT" and you could park at a public park. Or... just remove all signs if you park at a walmart or side street. Parks and schools and police departments are in every city.
Hello from NYC! I can definitely relate to what you're saying. I live in a van and appreciate the fact that my van is stealth, which is why I chose it. I haven't had to deal with any harassment or knocks on my windows. (Check out my NYC urban camping video.) I enjoy your videos and thoughtfulness! Thanks for sharing them! Peaceful journey! ~ThinkBig
I always really like your videos. Did you ever do a video explaining what your tattoos mean? Just wondering if you did. I don't have 1 but just getting ideas for 1. Tks
A lot of people really suck there's where most every problem starts. People really don't like someone having things "easy" period... anywhere..anytime. Inherit a house for one...this will get them really stirring.
www.mpgforspeed.com/ When I drive on a 70 mph road long distance I usually will go 62-65 not to cock block but so I can enjoy the ride. I will do 70 only if I can set the cruise and not have to bother it. If I have to pass people all the time I will reduce my speed so I can avoid cluster f**s.
Good points made in the vid. IMO you need to make an intro (and outro?) that gives your vids context though.When you talk about stealth I'm thinking what does your van actually look like from the outside?All Ive got is this guy talking with zero visual context to illustrate what he is talking about.A standard intro segment could answer all these kind of general context questions. Anywayz just a thought!
Thank you very much for feedback! I have van tour video in the description that shows the in and outs of the van. I'll add annotions so it's easier to find. thanks again!
Hey how about if you contacted someone through couch surfing to see if they had a driveway you can park it overnight? I know blonde but I'm still a smarty
I've been enjoying your videos. I'm thinking about doing the same thing and was wondering about buying a van. I've been looking, and all the van's I see have many MANY miles on them and are expensive too. One 2007 Chevy van had 200k + miles on it and they wanted $11,000 bucks. Tell me about van mileage. Do they go as far as 300k to 400k miles before needing major work? Give me some input if you can about buying a van if you can. Thanks
that has been one of my biggest fears when I have camped in my suv. that I will be illegally parked somewhere by accident and some tow truck paid by that place to tow cars hooks my car up and tows me....haha....because if you have dealt with those tow truck drivers they can be some serious a holes.
Brilliant vid! Do you know any van dwelling vids that are by and for women? I'm seriously considering this lifestyle but am concerned about safety.. That said, i am living in Australia, where it's pretty safe. :)) But would love to see how women live this life. Thanks! ;))
+Xara Fiasco Thank you! I know of two female van dwellers. ruclips.net/video/9DPjMU5b_Uw/видео.html ruclips.net/video/13hBK6YiHdQ/видео.html I'm sure there are more. Being a woman you have the gift of superior intuition, that's definitely in your favor. I hope you decide to do it! have a blast and stay safe!
hi...I'm 53 an am planning on getting a van to live in so I can travel. I live a very minimalist life style already. I'm trying to decide which van style is best. I've been looking at *class b conversions *minivans to convert *cargo vans to covert *an ive also looked at trucks with shells in ur opinion which is the easiest an cheapest for someone on a tight budget? I'm asking this of several ppl to get an ideal of which way to go towards. thank you for any advice u share with me :)
+Dark Soul what is yout budget for the vehicle? What is your budget on the road? Is space and the conveinience more important than simplicity and saving money? How much are you willing to rough it? A cheap class b will come with all kinds of problems and badd mpg. A mini van will take a little work to make it "home" but you can make it super simple and save a ton on gas. Of course youll be "roughing it" a little more than a class b and not habe much room. It comes down to budgets and values. Its all a trade off, there is no perfect vehicle.
+Into The Mystery 13 I'm not afraid of roughing it. my budget for a van is between $7,000-$10,000. I know I'll have to do a lot of work on the van itself an I will definitely change all fluids an get new tires. as for the inside, I'm short an sleep on my side. I'm lucky, my dad was a carpenter an has offered to help me transform any van I get into a liveable one. he has wood to build the bed an says he has the cabinets an sink an insulation plus left over vinyl flooring that looks like real wood. idk what else he has since its all in the barn.
nice. so under the radar nobody would give a second look. my old man is semi retired and chooses to live the nomadic lifestyle as well. he travels around alot and I get a chance to see him when he's in town. he parked his van close to an apartment building and flew back east for a month to visit. nobody questioned why the van was parked there. no tickets. a cargo van might contain tools or something valuable to a thief. a passenger van might contain dirty diapers or animal crackers stuffed in the seats.lol
people are just jealous, I am preparing to live in a van, it is difficult since I don't have money right now to pay for a van since I am always paying rent and by the end of the day I am out of money I don't know how to break this cycle. I am trying to save money but there is always something I just got to find a cheap van that I can fix to live in it and I think it should be in the summer when is hot since the cold will kill me for sure. but I just want to be free from this cycle of paying rent I am just burning money.
Bill Randall thanks for the info and comments the federal loans and grants in california for college are not as much as you mentioned but still they help
I disagree though in having the thinking of Oh if I am in a Conversion Van then I don't blame others for feeling uncomfortable with me parking in neighborhood. It should not matter what typoe of van I have!!
+Into The Mystery 13 hahaha. I do A lot of connecting in my head when I hear things, don't take me seriously. (Non-Aggression Principle) it's a crazy libertarian religion to not hurt others unless someone is aggressing against you.
Hey Mystery, I'm a homeowner and 2-job 70 hour worker (paying off the debts to the MAN!). If I saw you parking overnight in my neighbor hood and you stick out, my concern would merely be 'I don't know you' and that's really it. No lifestyle judgement here, to each his own. Every neighborhood in the US (pretty much) has break-ins and the neighbors talk and keep an eye out afterwards, chalk it up to tactical awareness, not judgement. Now... if I met you and you told me your game, you might just get invited to use a driveway during the day when you need it. I'm kinda envious of the van dwellers. Stay mysterious my friend.
+JoeCubicle That sounds perfectly rational to me. Thanks for the feedback!
+JoeCubicle , I wish there were more people within the establishment like you. Thank you for having an open mind.
Sensible. Good video glad I've got my minivan it helps me feel safer in all regards
One type of stealth I never hear talked about is one I used for several years and it never failed - I had my step van lettered on both sides and back "SIGN PAINTER" along with various incidental copy .
If in a city , I would camp in industrial or commercial areas right on the street , and not only did I fit in , but attracted no police or any contrary attention , all the while , I was inside cozy as can be !
Commercial areas and office blocks become very quiet at night , till the dumpster squad came around in the morning , but it wasn't too bad !
smart!
I'm just getting started living in a Dodge G. Caravan with my beautiful dog, Shasta. Your channel has been a tremendous help. I'm trying to keep my van in a mode that lends to stealth camping, but don't know how that is going to work out, since Shasta likes to sleep in the front seat which is in front of the black-out curtain, a dead give-away that it's not just a parked van.
TomN76 I covered that in my pros and cons of Living in a van on the road video. I thought it would be redundant add that information here as well. thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :)
All good reasons to stealth. You got it down to a science.
Thanks Dan!
Dan I couldn't find your videos a while ago. I was looking for "prophets of vandom" (good book title btw) but It looked like you took it down? Anyways happy travels. Mystery 13 I've been watchin you a lot. Keep up the good work.
Rich Russet It was time for a change. Glad you liked the vid though.
Godspeed, Dan... wherever the path may lead.
Best stealth video I've seen on RUclips. Smart young man!
i love myself,
and i love you
and i already subbed...
mmuuuaaahhhhhhhh...
As a former C-Class RV owner, I can definitely identify with the appeal of a stealth van. I especially like that your vehicle has side windows - making it that much more stealthy!
+LandonGendur Super stealthy :)
my brother is been a manager at multiple walmarts for the last few years and he said you can "stay in your vehicle and not move it for up to 30 days before they ask you to leave" he said that he sees the same people every couple months because they just stay at walmart for 3-4weeks then go to another walmart or other store. then come back.
+TheCodFather nice! Thanks for the info!
Thanks for the videos I like the van travel action. Astro van is a great choice I considered it my self but could not find a cheap one. I would of wanted to get a roof rack that could hide a solar panel and big roof vent with fantastic fan. I have to watch the rest of your videos, they are good, when I have time. Then I would probley know if you have already considered these ideas to improve your stealth camper.
A portable solar suit case is more stealth & you can just put it in the sun out side the van while parked in the shade. You can just point a DC fan out the window on hot days to blow the heat out.k Also DC fridge cooler, solar shower, little buddy heater & bed that folds into couch or back fold up in to recliner.
My truck had room for a second battery in the engine that has been great for me. Works good if you do a lot of driving. Plus I plug another battery I keep in the back bed of my truck for a small inverter in to my trailer plug under my back bumper. If I ever need a new alternators I am going to pay a little extra for a high out put alternator that will charge all my batteries faster then the one on there now.
Keep on rolling. T
Thanks! My solar panel sits flush with the factory roof rack, so that worked out perfectly for me. It must be nice to have all that room under the hood. Everything is very tight with this little hand. The little buddy is great! High amp alternator all the way. Thanks again!
Misery loves company. If you don't buy into what someone else believes is right you are wrong. That is why the guy who works all week doesn't want someone that has it "easy" around them. Not that they are wrong, but neither are you for enjoying your time on earth.
Exactly!
great video. i just came across your videos and like what i wachted so i have subscribed. i too live in a mini van for the last year and a half. and love it. i go any where i want. lol im just a mini van.
Hey thanks Ray, I appreciate it! Mini vans are great! do you have any pictures or vids of your set up?
im going to try and set up some pics of my van. not sure how to do that yet or where to put them for van people can check them out. its a 2006 pontic montana. iv put in tv,mickovave two buner stove, gas or elec. portapotty. i live in alberta canada. right now im on vancouver island. ill be all over the states 2016. love to meet other van dewelers. take care
this answered my question I asked a few days ago lol. sorry I hadn't seen this yet!
Dude! How did I ever miss your channel?!! Loved it.
Thanks! I'm so glad you did! I'll check yours out too :D
this is some good info buddy. once more, good video. I am all most finished with my van. their are a few things I am going to wait to complete when I get to Az. well take care bro. Tank Underwood
Thanks buddy! Wow you moved really fast. I hope you make videos daily. Best of luck to ya :)
Good points. Life is Short...Live Your Dream! Thank 4 sharing
+RVing LiveThe Dream You know it!
Van dwelling is (in my humble opinion) our human right. To live free and in a manner we choose that doesn't impede or interfere with others, Unfortunately, the members of the very system we want to be free from, don't like it, and will sometimes try to impede or interfere with you. This is an attack on our human rights at worst or discrimination at best. Van dwelling needs to be seen as a legitimate life choice.
Don't know if you are in Europe but in here is forbidden to left towing trailers on public places or road ditch, only camping grounds or expressed authorized places. Boondocking only with motorhomes. In America people have much more freedom.
I'm thinking of doing this. I think Ive always really wanted too. I just bought a house last year and it really hasn't made me happier other than not having a landlord. But I currently rent out my basement and could probably rent out the upstairs then move into a van myself or sell the house.
But if I wanted to park somewhere Id just go to an industrial or commercial area. No one will notice another white van around the other ones there plus no one is really around in the evening.
+Prairielander what's stopping you?
industrial? and commercial? Cops come-security comes... Those areas are high security and they instantly jump on you cause they think your doing Break ions or crime....The biggest thing? is be cool dont in and out a lot never ever leave garbage or use the area your parked in as a Toilet. Just respect and you'll be good. Did it when I was 22-Best 2 years my life.
Tanx! i am balanced between stealth and let-it-all-hang-out. Methinks i should err in favour of stealth... Good video and i appreciate the thoughts. Be safe!
+Todd Scott Thats kinda my combo too. Thanks man!
If you park in a Walmart or Home Depot, etc overnight, try to figure out where the night staff are parking and pull in next to them.
You could bolt down a big locking truck tool box under your bed or smaller ones any where in the van as they come in all different sizes to secure your valuables.
Wow that's an amazing idea! Thank you so much!
This was really helpful, thank you!
Green city parks usually have a nice parking lot and at nigth is empty. My town has it.
Hey friend,I can echo your sentiments about people's paranoia about people living in a van...Folks always ask me"what happened,why are you homeless"? ...I'M NOT HOMELESS...I chose a simpler lifestyle.I fell in love with the tiny house movement but never felt like that was a viable option for me but my chevy express houses everything I need..also I'd like to encourage older people to try this before you can't dream anymore...it's very freeing to realize you don't need all your crap...Your van is a bit more tidy than mine but I'm getting there...
+William Durham Well said! Keeping it tidy is daily battle, I'm naturally a messy person
Great talk and good points. Personally I have always preferred a fence-side or shrub-side spot on a quiet public road in the right kind of neighborhood (working class with cargo vans everywhere) over commercial lots (private property). Next to duplex or small apartment buildings. If I had an RV or cargo trailer I would probably favor the lots.
On a side note, you remind me of a young Anthony Kiedis. I'm sure you've heard it before, but it is a compliment. I think the Chili Peppers are still badass!
+Will Burson Interesting, you don't have an issue with traffic noise or the van moving everytime a car goes by? And thanks!
Into The Mystery 13 Nah. The cars blend in and die down when it gets late. I am talking about roads with low speed limits so no rockin. Now I HAVE heard some drunks. haha Voices outside the van always make my spidey sense tingle, and I thought I was gonna have to call the cops or intervene once when it sounded like this lady was about to get hit by some dude.
Man that sounds scary. I've been in similar situations in Walmart. I should start seeking out more stealth spots and experiment with it more.
Into The Mystery 13 Your van can blend in anywhere. Even though it's a passenger model it looks like the cargo model at a glance because it's white. Sweet ride. I haven't caught up enough yet to see if your misfires are resolved but I hope so!
Yeah the bike on the roof is the only non-stealth thing I have. The misfires are not resolved yet, but I'm doing a ton of work on it tomorrow, and hopefully it'll be running like a champ, I'm almost out of possible causes :)
Sounds perfect to me!
I decided to live in my van for the next year. I lived in my car for a couple of months once many years ago, but no one knew because I think I got the natural instinct for not oozing helpless or homeless. So I'm going to do it the next year to save up a shit-ton of money. Good to see others out there. Right on.
... but my problem will be that I have dogs. I have to figure out what to do with them when I'm in work for a few hours a day. Onwards!
+VideoMenu Nice! Good move!
+VideoMenu Are you going to be staying in one place? If so it seems like you ought to be able to find a cheap dog watcher on craigslist or through a friend. If not, maybe stay in cool locations, park in the shade, and keep all windows cracked with a couple fans running. Best of luck to you!
+Into The Mystery 13 - Yeah, same place. I work at a college and have full 24 hr access to the building I work in (outside access with restroom) and have a big closet storage area where I'll lock up my clothes and we have our mini fridge and freezer back there.
I found out the post office now lets you write your PO Box as a street address so I don't have to even tell anyone who like to feign worry. And I'm putting most of my belongings in self-storage (selling it off as the year goes on). I'll come inside the school at night which won't be a problem because I'm not obnoxious and know how to be stealth, not causing people to notice me (unlike entitled people who end up in hot water because they take up more space than 1 person should). And the school is used to people being there around the clock. In the day time we'll sleep and lounge in the van. It's just those few hours a day that I have to go inside to work I'll have a problem with--no way I can leave them barking in the car on campus.
A day sitter is probably what I'll go with.
Thanks for the encouragement! I am REALLY excited about this. But I can't tell anyone because they won't understand and think I'm in trouble and need rescuing. lol
By the way, do you have issues with friends and family thinking they have to rescue you?
Yes. Live and let live. Have you heard of the "NAP" (non-aggression principle) ?
no, please enlighten me
Will do ! Safe Travels
Thank you x2!
Peace to you man. I'm doing the same in the UK. Stay smart ;-)
+Blox Electrix Oh awesome! Thanks Blox!
Great talk! I agree with you people are very intolerant of those who live differently. Maybe it is jealousy or just bitterness stemming from their very unhappy lives in the rat race. Anyway, you're in the right! Travel safe and keep us posted about your life on the road. Cheers from France!
+Hubert BARIL I doubt that it has much to do with people that "live differently". I think people just want to feel safe in their homes/neighborhoods. You basically have a stranger who has set up camp next to your front yard. Someone that is literally in a get away vehicle AND trying to hide the fact that they are in the van. It would take them seconds to snatch a kid or something like that and take off.
You may know you aren't there to do stuff like that, but how are they to know? Think of it this way... when is the last time you intentionally picked a high crime area to stealth camp in? Most likely never? Why not? Because you want to feel safe. Why shouldn't those that live in the houses you park next to have the same right?
Btw, I stealth camp also. So, I'm not against it. I just think we need to keep stuff like this in mind when we do it. Most people are not hating on us for doing it... they are usually just concerned for their own families and their neighbors.
Then there are the bad parts, you don't ever miss having running water or a bathroom? Then the other things like a small kitchen or some room. I really like the new rig Just Credible has.
+TomN76 I covered that in my pros and cons of Living in a van on the road video. I thought it would be redundant add that information here as well. thanks for watching and taking the time to comment :)
I have a lot of respect for you. I'm from the UK and he prices in London are outrageous. £500 a month gets you a parking space and £700 a month gets you a house share - not worth sacrificing half of my salary for a poor standard of living. I am hoping to buy a van conversion like you; I'd feel a lot more comfortable people not thinking I'm taking advantage.
Just some questions:
1) Do you use a generator for electricity or does the van's battery suffice?
2) Where do you go to shower?
3) Do have a hob?
+Jake Wrightson i have an auxiliary battery powered by a solar panel and battery isolator, i shower at the gym, and work traditional jobs, do photography work, run a website, get adsense revenue fron that and this channel, am an amazon affiliate, and have a patreon account
I would have some waterproof magnetic signs that would say, "BOOK MOBILE" and park in library parking lots or public schools. Or a sign that said "CRIME SCENE UNIT" and park at police departments! They would never think to look for you there... and who would attack you or bother you right in a nest of cops. Or a sign that said "PARKS MAINTENANCE DEPARTMENT" and you could park at a public park. Or... just remove all signs if you park at a walmart or side street. Parks and schools and police departments are in every city.
Hello from NYC! I can definitely relate to what you're saying. I live in a van and appreciate the fact that my van is stealth, which is why I chose it. I haven't had to deal with any harassment or knocks on my windows. (Check out my NYC urban camping video.) I enjoy your videos and thoughtfulness! Thanks for sharing them! Peaceful journey! ~ThinkBig
Thanks! I'll check out your vids for sure!
I always really like your videos. Did you ever do a video explaining what your tattoos mean? Just wondering if you did. I don't have 1 but just getting ideas for 1. Tks
Thanks Cleevus! I have not, but I'm calling for a Q & A soon and I'll add this to the list :)
Into The Mystery 13 Cool, Stay safe and live the dream
Thank you :)
You know it! Thanks again!
Im looking at getting a van, and the GF isnt to happy about it. lol Enjoying the videos buddy.
Thanks man, good luck with girl
A lot of people really suck there's where most every problem starts. People really don't like someone having things "easy" period... anywhere..anytime. Inherit a house for one...this will get them really stirring.
+plutoplatters Right? I'm surprised I don't have any real haters yet. Their coming, and I'm ready to love them though :p
cool video
Do you plan on traveling West to Oregon or California great set up I had a E150 Van just a daily driver & weekender
+peterinburnaby yeah after nola ill heading to portland, stopping in Utah
www.mpgforspeed.com/
When I drive on a 70 mph road long distance I usually will go 62-65 not to cock block but so I can enjoy the ride. I will do 70 only if I can set the cruise and not have to bother it. If I have to pass people all the time I will reduce my speed so I can avoid cluster f**s.
Yeah I found in this rig if I stay under 65 I save big on gas.
Yeah I found in this rig if I stay under 65 I save big on gas.
Yeah I found in this rig if I stay under 65 I save big on gas.
Good points made in the vid. IMO you need to make an intro (and outro?) that gives your vids context though.When you talk about stealth I'm thinking what does your van actually look like from the outside?All Ive got is this guy talking with zero visual context to illustrate what he is talking about.A standard intro segment could answer all these kind of general context questions. Anywayz just a thought!
Thank you very much for feedback! I have van tour video in the description that shows the in and outs of the van. I'll add annotions so it's easier to find. thanks again!
This is cool. But where do you shower?
+Ray William Juanson usually planet fitness. Sometimes friends houses
Ray William Juanson ..I shower at resorts,truck stops,public parks,most have showers,or lack fitness membership,etc.
Hey how about if you contacted someone through couch surfing to see if they had a driveway you can park it overnight? I know blonde but I'm still a smarty
I've been enjoying your videos. I'm thinking about doing the same thing and was wondering about buying a van. I've been looking, and all the van's I see have many MANY miles on them and are expensive too. One 2007 Chevy van had 200k + miles on it and they wanted $11,000 bucks. Tell me about van mileage. Do they go as far as 300k to 400k miles before needing major work? Give me some input if you can about buying a van if you can. Thanks
I am interested in the same question
Ive seen several vans with flags draped all over just like yours. What is that about? Or is it just random decoration?
those are Buddhist Prayer flags he covered those in another video of his which is basically a walk around of the van
have you ever had a tow truck just hook you up to tow you while you were in the van?
+stan l Not yet, and I hope that never happens!
that has been one of my biggest fears when I have camped in my suv. that I will be illegally parked somewhere by accident and some tow truck paid by that place to tow cars hooks my car up and tows me....haha....because if you have dealt with those tow truck drivers they can be some serious a holes.
being free and living a non aggression principle....it's not just you.. it's Anarchy...It's respect...It's natural.
Brilliant vid! Do you know any van dwelling vids that are by and for women? I'm seriously considering this lifestyle but am concerned about safety.. That said, i am living in Australia, where it's pretty safe. :)) But would love to see how women live this life. Thanks! ;))
+Xara Fiasco Thank you! I know of two female van dwellers. ruclips.net/video/9DPjMU5b_Uw/видео.html
ruclips.net/video/13hBK6YiHdQ/видео.html
I'm sure there are more. Being a woman you have the gift of superior intuition, that's definitely in your favor. I hope you decide to do it! have a blast and stay safe!
+Xara Fiasco Panda Mondium is a really good too, be sure to check her out: plus.google.com/b/101427949049762078487/+PandaMoniumRV/posts
This is really helpful! Thanks again Into The Mystery! :D
You're very welcome!
hi...I'm 53 an am planning on getting a van to live in so I can travel. I live a very minimalist life style already. I'm trying to decide which van style is best. I've been looking at *class b conversions
*minivans to convert
*cargo vans to covert
*an ive also looked at trucks with shells
in ur opinion which is the easiest an cheapest for someone on a tight budget? I'm asking this of several ppl to get an ideal of which way to go towards. thank you for any advice u share with me :)
+Dark Soul what is yout budget for the vehicle? What is your budget on the road? Is space and the conveinience more important than simplicity and saving money? How much are you willing to rough it? A cheap class b will come with all kinds of problems and badd mpg. A mini van will take a little work to make it "home" but you can make it super simple and save a ton on gas. Of course youll be "roughing it" a little more than a class b and not habe much room. It comes down to budgets and values. Its all a trade off, there is no perfect vehicle.
+Into The Mystery 13 I'm not afraid of roughing it. my budget for a van is between $7,000-$10,000. I know I'll have to do a lot of work on the van itself an I will definitely change all fluids an get new tires. as for the inside, I'm short an sleep on my side. I'm lucky, my dad was a carpenter an has offered to help me transform any van I get into a liveable one. he has wood to build the bed an says he has the cabinets an sink an insulation plus left over vinyl flooring that looks like real wood. idk what else he has since its all in the barn.
nice. so under the radar nobody would give a second look. my old man is semi retired and chooses to live the nomadic lifestyle as well. he travels around alot and I get a chance to see him when he's in town. he parked his van close to an apartment building and flew back east for a month to visit. nobody questioned why the van was parked there. no tickets. a cargo van might contain tools or something valuable to a thief. a passenger van might contain dirty diapers or animal crackers stuffed in the seats.lol
people are just jealous, I am preparing to live in a van, it is difficult since I don't have money right now to pay for a van since I am always paying rent and by the end of the day I am out of money I don't know how to break this cycle. I am trying to save money but there is always something I just got to find a cheap van that I can fix to live in it and I think it should be in the summer when is hot since the cold will kill me for sure. but I just want to be free from this cycle of paying rent I am just burning money.
***** thank you I will try that for sure I need to break this cycle and just be free
***** I am actually a reloaded cause that is cheaper ammunition, never thought of selling ammunition but that is a good idea
oh I see I was wondering about that I was checking the laws on it
Bill Randall thanks for the info and comments the federal loans and grants in california for college are not as much as you mentioned but still they help
So, how's the journey? Are you still living in the van?
+Brian Smith , yep. Just got a new van with my girlfriend and we are building it out and getting back on the road. Check out my newest vids
I disagree though in having the thinking of Oh if I am in a Conversion Van then I don't blame others for feeling uncomfortable with me parking in neighborhood. It should not matter what typoe of van I have!!
Some people are just haters Jst becz we live the smart way .
I have no problem with people living in their vehicle, l think it's an interesting lifestyle to live
+Reece Schmit Awesome, im glad to hear it! thanks Reece!
Sounds like you might believe in the NAP
Does nap stand for something or do you mean taking a nap?
+Into The Mystery 13 hahaha. I do A lot of connecting in my head when I hear things, don't take me seriously. (Non-Aggression Principle) it's a crazy libertarian religion to not hurt others unless someone is aggressing against you.
it comes down to money that's why most live in a van period...
+Jjames Notme seems accurate
yes you do have a good chance of not getting anything stolen , unless of course you tell the world on you tube or something ,
Now which White van will i try breaking into next :D
it's not just you! lp.org
why don't you get a pet you look like you would be a good pet person
This video is super old. I now have a girlfriend, a new van, and a dog named Lilly :)