Embracing Van Life at 72: A Solo Woman's Journey in a Minivan | No-Build Van Life

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 3 янв 2025

Комментарии • 549

  • @Debrasvantasticjourney
    @Debrasvantasticjourney Год назад +149

    I’m 72 as well. Been boondocking for a few years now. Built two “practice rigs” one was a Ford Explorer and the second a Ford Expedition. I graduated to a van this year. For my January birthday I bought myself a 2013 Ford E150 passenger van. I ripped out the interior and it is now equipped with a bed of 3” high density foam, a cedar ceiling, a hidden port a potty, 12 volt fridge, kitchen with running water and a two burner stove, 200 watts of power on the roof and I DID IT ALL MYSELF!

  • @denisesmith2745
    @denisesmith2745 Год назад +183

    I’m almost 67 and forced to sell my home. My four Chihuahuas and I will be living in an RV once I get the money from the sale of my house. The ladies you have shown us doing this inspires me to know I can do it, too. Thank you so much, Bob

    • @dianadee9757
      @dianadee9757 Год назад +12

      You can do it.

    • @lindasams6058
      @lindasams6058 Год назад +12

      I'm getting ready too & I'm 70 - 71 in September

    • @lindasams6058
      @lindasams6058 Год назад +20

      We ladies need to meet up & start together
      I have a dog & cat

    • @readmelancholystrumpetmaster
      @readmelancholystrumpetmaster Год назад +2

      That's four too many chihuahuas

    • @maryzwolak7960
      @maryzwolak7960 Год назад +6

      I had no idea so many older single women had chosen to do this. I am 72 but in I’ll health which sorry to say won’t be getting better or I would be right there with you all

  • @Smith-dt5qz
    @Smith-dt5qz Год назад +40

    I been living in my van for 12 years. I am 67 years old. I will not buy an RV because everyone has problems with them. I am sick now but fighting it. God is with me. God Bless Everyone.

    • @papillondemanille39
      @papillondemanille39 6 месяцев назад +9

      Said a prayer for you just now. May our Lord's healing hands be upon you, in Jesus name.

    • @gailbaket2063
      @gailbaket2063 Месяц назад +2

      Praying for your good health🙏🙏

  • @sherryhicks4156
    @sherryhicks4156 Год назад +26

    I began at age 70. I am 76 now and still going.

  • @chrisftp1312
    @chrisftp1312 Год назад +240

    5:19 “Butterflies don’t fly in a straight line, and neither do I.” I love this lady

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +4

      💙🦋💙

    • @sue9252
      @sue9252 Год назад +6

      Yes and butterfly’s are free to flit around where they choose. I like the organization she has going on and the little dogs sleeping in their doghouse would also be good for alerting any outside noises around the van doors at night.

  • @karenbrown5177
    @karenbrown5177 Год назад +216

    Brave, courageous, clever, smart, sensible woman. Blessings.

    • @christiannemayer6062
      @christiannemayer6062 Год назад +5

      Jan is the best part. Stay comfy butterfly make some new tracks

  • @PetStorK1
    @PetStorK1 Год назад +313

    This lifestyle must be agreeing with Jan. I've been following her in Butterfly Tracks and she looks much younger now! Jan is a gem!

    • @HettyHartpreneur
      @HettyHartpreneur Год назад +16

      That is so true!

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +16

      @@HettyHartpreneur Thank you, Hetty. 💙🦋💙

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +11

      Thank you, PetStork1. 💙🦋💙

    • @ABCpdc
      @ABCpdc Год назад +10

      She makes great videos!!

    • @winniebt600
      @winniebt600 Год назад +13

      Yes and taken to vanlife like a butterfly to nectar. She has meetups and great interviews besides her own good videos. It's obviously been a good path.

  • @MelissaKing-vm8sm
    @MelissaKing-vm8sm 8 месяцев назад +14

    Bod you are so courteous, polite and respectful. You always aske, 'Do you mind showing us?" And then you let THEM speak without interrupting them. Another thing that I appreciate about you is that you ask the BEST questions!! And then you tell them what a good job that they have done. You have never made someone feel like they could have done more. Thank you for your channel!!

    • @bw510
      @bw510 2 месяца назад +1

      100% agree that Bob is very polite and takes people just as they are...thanks Bob

  • @kimberlyevans7853
    @kimberlyevans7853 Год назад +24

    She is an inspiration to me, I'd given up on my nomad dream when my dad got sick. He passed 2-05-23. 1 day after mom & his 60th. Anniversary. Lol I cant even tell mom I want to go camping, she'll plan dr appts or other business I must be with her for. I'm hoping to get on old rv and fix it up so mom can go with me on short trips. Love this ladies attitude

  • @TwistedSisttaa
    @TwistedSisttaa Год назад +5

    Using the outdoor lounger as a bed base is genius! I live that you can raise the head end if you want and I would.

  • @MsTruthSeekr1
    @MsTruthSeekr1 Год назад +155

    I love that Jan uses pillow covers to store her clothing. Great idea!

  • @tripstheytake
    @tripstheytake Год назад +16

    Jan is so articulate and educated on how to live a simple but satisfying lifestyle

  • @jollymatilda5890
    @jollymatilda5890 Год назад +99

    I love her "no build" build. She sounds like she's done her homework on living life as a Nomad. Great Interview Bob and CRVL Crew. 😊❤👍🏻

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +6

      💙🦋💙

    • @MusafirsSoul
      @MusafirsSoul Год назад

      She did her homework meticulously & it is very logical too. At this age when she took this BIG decision of this SHIFT to "see the world on wheels" leaving behind the comfortable life of brick n mortar home, she definitely needed to plan out everything possible in advance. I am 60+ & on the last leg of planning & taking the plunge in next few months. I am still gathering myself mentally...😆

  • @EmilyBachmeier
    @EmilyBachmeier Год назад +5

    A pool chair for the bed is genius!

  • @annthrockmorton1517
    @annthrockmorton1517 Год назад +92

    I'm 72, so I clicked on this video right away! What an inspiration Jan is. I had to LOL when she said the part about being more concerned that her *body* would break down first! ☺️
    I gave that comment a big "Hel-lo-o!"
    Gotta say, though, I'm betting that the active lifestyle she's arranged for herself will help her, health-wise, too.
    And staying in Casino lots would sure work for me. . .I'm not much of a gambler -- probably working in one fresh out of College trained me there -- but I still love to be around the action, and hit the buffets! 😋

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +11

      You're right. Vanlife has made me stronger! 💙🦋💙

    • @francineroot-adler7205
      @francineroot-adler7205 Год назад +9

      When I was a trucker, we frequently went to the casinos...for the big truck parking and the buffets!

    • @alvenatgolden1781
      @alvenatgolden1781 Год назад +7

      Good job, good luck I will see you out there on the road. I am 79 and in a fleetwood motorhome!

    • @casualonemmo-player2167
      @casualonemmo-player2167 Год назад +1

      Well, you are prone to get heartproblems, cansers, tumors etc at that age. Ive seen too many 65 yrs old that planned to retire and travel rhe world.. then boom, a braintumor and they died within a year. Dont postpone your dreams..

  • @carmenmartinez2882
    @carmenmartinez2882 Год назад +7

    Love it! I’m trying to do the Van life but I need more space for my dogs, 38 lbs whippet and 70 lbs pit bull, I do have a Clam gazebo but that’s only when I get to my destination, and no they don’t sleep on the bed, too big but they’re my protection, companion and my rescued babies because at the moment I tent camp mostly solo. They absolutely love camping, as soon as the tent comes out they’re pestering.

  • @KattEyl
    @KattEyl Год назад +2

    I love her positive outlook.

  • @shirleymason7697
    @shirleymason7697 Год назад +34

    Jan, I’m 88 and won’t be camping or nomad-ding (not because of age). But I love to hear about your adventure and your success. Keep on keeping on !

    • @sunnyrivers
      @sunnyrivers Год назад +3

      Wowsa Jan this set up looks great‼️💙👏🏼

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +5

      @@sunnyrivers Thank you, Sunny. I've changed it since this was filmed for more room. 💙🦋💙

  • @ChanelThomas248
    @ChanelThomas248 2 дня назад

    Butterfly Tracks videos are sensible and not full of fluff. That’s why I subscribed! Of course, been a subscriber of Cheaprvliving for years!

  • @lindav1189
    @lindav1189 Год назад +3

    God bless her for giving away her refrigerator, which she needed since she ordered another one for herself.

  • @christinehcanada
    @christinehcanada Год назад +18

    She’s living her best life. I’d love to meet her one day. ❤

  • @leslieabell1320
    @leslieabell1320 Год назад +2

    As a 70 year old woman I love this

  • @shellyosborne7545
    @shellyosborne7545 Год назад +2

    She’s smart and sweet

  • @maura6375
    @maura6375 Год назад +1

    I like the fact
    it’s electric ❤

  • @Stay_tooned
    @Stay_tooned Год назад +59

    Love Jan and Butterfly tracks. Great car, great no build build and I love the ocean theme decor. I love the ocean. Thanks Jan! Thank you Bob!

  • @CG-sx3no
    @CG-sx3no Год назад +2

    Good for her❤

  • @loissanborn1604
    @loissanborn1604 Год назад +11

    My favorite part is her positive, "can do" attitude! So happy for her to be able to travel wherever & whenever she wants to!

  • @paradiseandlove
    @paradiseandlove Год назад +9

    My favorite part is how she can live with so little and be happy traveling this way with two dogs to accompany her. I would prefer to have a vehicle that I can stand up in though..

  • @betsiemathews7934
    @betsiemathews7934 Год назад +9

    I have been following Jan for a while on butterfly tracks, she is a wonderful reporter and shows great footage! Also she is my age and my kind a woman, I live and travel in a small motorhome in Australia. Thank you for this wonderful interview.

  • @juanitataylor6947
    @juanitataylor6947 Год назад +1

    More inspiring than cooking shows

  • @patriciajoyner9871
    @patriciajoyner9871 Год назад +1

    Go honey go ! I used to go anywhere.but now at 59 i doubt myself.

  • @craftytraveler9238
    @craftytraveler9238 Год назад +7

    Hi Jan, Butterfly Tracks, it is finally good to see this video.

  • @carissamitchell2785
    @carissamitchell2785 Год назад +1

    Love this no build

  • @frrusc1
    @frrusc1 Год назад +1

    I love this girl....she didnt do buildins still she made a cozy place for herself

  • @janefromtennessee
    @janefromtennessee Год назад +1

    Amazing lady. Not fearful. Brave. God speed.

  • @SouthFloridaThrifter
    @SouthFloridaThrifter Год назад +9

    Everything she said was so smart. Thank you so much, Mr. Wells, for all the positive, authentic representions of the nomad community.

  • @FloridaSalon
    @FloridaSalon Год назад +1

    This lady is my shero!

  • @carolhieter3916
    @carolhieter3916 Год назад +59

    I just recently started following Butterfly Tracks, & I am so impressed with Jan! I love her videos & look forward to watching more. Thanks, Bob, for sharing her story.

    • @ButterflyTracks
      @ButterflyTracks Год назад +5

      Thanks, Carol. 💙🦋💙

    • @alisatjaden3906
      @alisatjaden3906 Год назад +3

      I'm 72, clicked on this right away! Will be following her travels!! ❤🦋

  • @dusttodust4295
    @dusttodust4295 Год назад +7

    My favorite part was Jan!

  • @loris1620
    @loris1620 Год назад +34

    OMG! My two favorite van living idea channels came together! Love it!

  • @loritowne-culver2506
    @loritowne-culver2506 Год назад +1

    Delighted with everything

  • @denisescull4227
    @denisescull4227 Год назад +13

    It's so interesting to see and hear the ideas others come up with! Smart, thoughtful woman Jan. Thanks for sharing

  • @robinw285
    @robinw285 Год назад +1

    I admire her organization.

  • @kigo641
    @kigo641 6 месяцев назад +2

    I just love these brave, adventurous women that don’t let anything hold them back. They live their life redefining options. So cool! ❤

  • @candacepanner7248
    @candacepanner7248 Год назад +4

    Love Jan from BT so much! Just bought a Voyager , one step down from the Pacifica, not as many bells and whistles but still enough luxury for my 60 y.o. little old lady self! Am stealing Jan's flooring ideas, age saved me hundreds of dollars and head aches w her idea to cover her carpet w vinyl so the best but still cleanable, w a dog as my co pilot that's important!. I think the 24" chair will b to narrow for me as a bed so I am going w a 30" 'slim twin' and an eight inch pillow to mattress for my bougie self!

  • @magn630
    @magn630 Год назад +8

    Wish I had her courage. I am almost her age and there is no way I could do this by myself. Jan is so practical by just finding things that would fit in her van and serve the purpose she needs - no special building of any kind. I am definitely going to follow her channel and enjoy her adventures.

    • @GinnyPrice-g5b
      @GinnyPrice-g5b Год назад +3

      Mag I too am thinking of doing this. From listening to Bob's videos, I'm beginning to believe I can. I'm very much a people person so I think I'll be able to find new friends along the way. Only alone as much as you want to be

  • @jeffdana9402
    @jeffdana9402 Год назад +1

    Nomad of the future!! Always good to see how we all might progress in the Nomad world

  • @brendamcchristy6044
    @brendamcchristy6044 Год назад +2

    Thank you Jan. You are amazing. Happy and safe adventures😊

  • @gypsyramirez7573
    @gypsyramirez7573 Год назад +2

    very nice you have everything you need and you are living your life thats the best part I have followed you on your Butterfly Tracks off and on thanks for sharing

  • @cynthiamurray9421
    @cynthiamurray9421 Год назад +2

    Love the idea of saving space by using pillows for storage.

  • @believedreams1663
    @believedreams1663 Год назад +4

    Not being the 1st to comment on this post. A plug in hybrid is absolutely phenomenal 👏. And she living her best life, doing what she wants to do.

  • @Loud2013
    @Loud2013 Год назад +22

    oh wow! this is *THE* Butterfly Tracks! I have been loving her channel!! thanks Bob and Jan, y'all inspire me. 🙏🏾💫🦋

  • @WS-uo1cm
    @WS-uo1cm Год назад +12

    Amazing and courage lady 💐

  • @janetkoball44
    @janetkoball44 Год назад +2

    I'm watching this again cause I really enjoy it. I have subscribed to her channel for awhile now.

  • @marielaboissiere2292
    @marielaboissiere2292 Год назад +1

    What a great lady, had some nice aspects in her no build

  • @sherryduncan7968
    @sherryduncan7968 Год назад +1

    Love the beds. Everything is quaint!

  • @CataLyst7Continued
    @CataLyst7Continued Год назад +8

    I knew that voice! I started following Jan a few months back! Love her channel! Thanks as always Bob 💙

  • @kelliesmith4068
    @kelliesmith4068 Год назад +13

    As I started watching I thought, is this Jan with Butterfly Tracks? I have not seen her with the hat on before. Then she smiled & her laugh affirmed this is lovely Jan! I've been following her vlog for months now and loved seeing her set up and hearing a bit of how she came to live in her van. She seems like one of the kindest people one could ever know. Thanks Bob for this vlog and for being one of the kindest people ever!

  • @gosmoothgolight7567
    @gosmoothgolight7567 Год назад +36

    Some really neat ideas in this "no-build" build! I like the ottoman cover over the commode :) This lady travels exactly the way I prefer to ... stop wherever and whenever I see something interesting to check out. Stay safe and enjoy ... God Bless

  • @whatsananna
    @whatsananna Год назад +7

    I’m so thrilled to see Jan featured. She has encouraged many women and helped Ed women to share info with each other.

  • @patriciabarnhart1886
    @patriciabarnhart1886 Год назад +8

    Jan always has the most soothing voice when she interviews others.

  • @Tracy-en6ph
    @Tracy-en6ph Год назад +1

    This started playing, and I was falling asleep, then recognized Jan's voice. 😊 yay Jan, love Butterfly Tracks ❤

  • @jamesscott1932
    @jamesscott1932 Год назад +3

    My favorite part is Jan herself. As we would say back in the day, “good attitude!“

  • @carrollbaltimore5694
    @carrollbaltimore5694 Год назад +2

    Every one living this kind of lifestyle I admire you and best wishes.

  • @dorothydemaree7544
    @dorothydemaree7544 Год назад +2

    Love her Utube!!! Wish the Chrysler set higher. Curbs, bumpy roads, etc have played havoc on mine.

  • @kathyball554
    @kathyball554 Год назад +7

    I didn't even know van camping existed until I happened up in butterfly tracks on you tube months ago. Now van shopping and planning for when I retire this summer. Jan seems like a genuinely nice person.

  • @victoriaferland5093
    @victoriaferland5093 Год назад +1

    Jan i love all the blues. What a nice home you have. I am 70 and your journey is encouraging.

  • @kevinhenry177
    @kevinhenry177 Год назад +13

    Jan is the most amazing lady! Love her butterfly tracks! #That’sTheWayEveryoneShouldLiveTheirLifeFreeAsAButterfly❤

  • @kathryn8248
    @kathryn8248 Год назад +2

    Thanks, Bob & Jan, for showing your home. Loved you ideas. Especially the Lawn Chair Lounge idea.
    😊

  • @autumnskyes5633
    @autumnskyes5633 Год назад +2

    I watch "Butterfly Tracks" often and really enjoy her adventures and meet ups with other lady travelers.

  • @danfinn4027
    @danfinn4027 Год назад +1

    She is an intelligent and organized woman who is living the wsy she wants.

  • @HettyHartpreneur
    @HettyHartpreneur Год назад +45

    That was so inspiring, so thank you! My plan is to start living in my minivan in the Netherlands. I am 67 yo and video's like this are helping me to overcome my doubts.

  • @peggygermann7996
    @peggygermann7996 Год назад +1

    She has a great set-up!!

  • @sallyflavell6221
    @sallyflavell6221 Год назад

    What a gem of a lady! Wow so sweet and capable and calm. Impressed and it made me feel so proud of womankind❤ bless her!❤

  • @MJCarter-MnknLady
    @MJCarter-MnknLady Месяц назад

    I love that she has an ice maker. It’s a nice option. How generous of her to donate her fridge and do without for a bit.

  • @joannfroman4976
    @joannfroman4976 Год назад +1

    Enjoy your adventure.

  • @suzierao2067
    @suzierao2067 Год назад +2

    You are such a courageous young lady. You are living the life of freedom with your little pups. You are enjoying life to the fullest which is what all of us should be doing, especially in our retirement years. Happy traveling and God bless you and your little dogs.

  • @linda-raeolsen8011
    @linda-raeolsen8011 6 месяцев назад +1

    Love the name Butterfly Tracks! I am getting ready to move into an RV that I recently bought. I am selling my condo as it is becoming to expensive to own and I want to retire. Although I love my condo and I love my wonderful view of the water and easy access to the beach. I just tell myself abut all the wonderful views I will see, as I too travel as the butterfly's do! My hat is off to you!

  • @evelyncmawk3871
    @evelyncmawk3871 Год назад +1

    I think Jan did a great job. My favorite is the bed. I've bought 2 little kinda tables and two lounge chairs cushions to lay on floor to sleep on. Best of luck to all your travel adventures.😊

  • @dbentley2195
    @dbentley2195 Год назад +1

    Nice lady! She has everything she needs, her and I are on the same page with no build and not trying to out do someone else, make it comfy and work FOR YOU! ❤️👍💯

  • @0000asdfasdf0000
    @0000asdfasdf0000 Год назад +2

    Amazing! Love it! In a world of extreme consumerism this woman is being so prudent and wise! Thanks heaps.

  • @karongoodine3288
    @karongoodine3288 Год назад +2

    She's one brave lady and at 72 she looks better than me at 63.

  • @FayeCalder
    @FayeCalder Год назад +1

    Awesomeness! Will follow Jan! Faye

  • @patriciatwalsh4479
    @patriciatwalsh4479 Год назад +1

    I loved your no build. Stay safe. Enjoy your travels.❤😊

  • @grayeagleswolves
    @grayeagleswolves Год назад +3

    Hey Bob she is great I am going to push her channel so that people see that any age and person can do this

  • @62WILDCAT
    @62WILDCAT Год назад +5

    Have followed Jan virtually all the way from Florida to West Coast & back again , loving every minute of it.
    Made me wish i had spent a chunk of the $60,000 profit from the house sale ( after divorce ) to buy the RIALTO VAN i had seen to live & travel in 11 years ago !! Now i am in my 80th year really desiring to live the NOMAD LIFE on wheels. Believing it is still possible !! At least for long enough to visit Cousins & good friends who are miles apart all across U.S.
    I'm so very grateful to Jan for sharing her adventures via youtube & to you too Bob & HOWA for all the great info.

  • @bigdog8993
    @bigdog8993 Год назад +1

    Bob I have enjoyed your videos for quite some time and followed your website before that van life intrigues me. Keep doing what you do.. life's a journey❤

  • @lonestarlaurel
    @lonestarlaurel Год назад +18

    Thanks, Bob, CRVL crew and Jan. Always learn something useful in these no build builds. And inspiring. Happy trails to all. 🇨🇦🙏🏼🐾🎶

  • @LindaMcLaren-eh4mt
    @LindaMcLaren-eh4mt Год назад +1

    Enjoyed your tour some really good ideas will have to look into the little heater

  • @jeribernardi8872
    @jeribernardi8872 Год назад +1

    Love this vidio! his camper rig is so cozy and everything well balanced. 🌲🌿🌹

  • @davidwellen830
    @davidwellen830 Год назад +11

    Great to see a young lady enjoying life alone soooo much !

  • @nikkid3235
    @nikkid3235 Год назад +7

    I enjoy Jan and her channel. Very inspirational lady.

  • @MusafirsSoul
    @MusafirsSoul Год назад +4

    Love Jan's style her happiness is infectious and her courage is exemplary! Thank you for bringing her on your channel although I am now going to check her out on her channel as well. Good people should be followed...❤

  • @barackmycat9448
    @barackmycat9448 Год назад +1

    High cost on an efficient and reliable vehicle and low cost build. That`s a winner!

  • @theunknownnomad
    @theunknownnomad Год назад +4

    Love the pillow and pool chair idea

  • @xcharlotteford5066
    @xcharlotteford5066 Год назад +1

    Liked the detail of using & where each item was purchased. Thanks Bob& tracking butterflies 🦋 for sharing.

  • @Stephanie-u8o3l
    @Stephanie-u8o3l Год назад +1

    This is such a great idea. What a strong and positive person.

  • @rosett3487
    @rosett3487 Год назад +1

    Thank you for sharing your new home. I hope you continue to enjoy traveling and living in it. It's a great home! Blessings

  • @MelissaKing-vm8sm
    @MelissaKing-vm8sm 8 месяцев назад

    And I LOVE her turquoise colors, she even color coordinated her clothing. She has a style to be copied! Thank you for the ideas!

  • @allthingsnu4673
    @allthingsnu4673 Год назад

    I’ve enjoyed Jan’s videos on her channel. Her van choice and design are smart and well-organized. Thanks for the tour!