Love that you're featuring someone who has been in their setup for a few years! Sometimes channels feature someone who has only been living this way for a few months. While it's nice to see those spaces, I believe that experience really helps to know what works, what doesn't work, and what you really need to make tiny living enjoyable 💙
Completely agree! Also, loving that the tiny didn't cost the same amount as a traditional home 🥰 I see more tiny homes that are double the cost of my almost 2k sqft home. It seriously deters me from the idea.
True! Also it is possible to use the car separately, like day trips, cities, groceries, without spending too much on gasoline and having less problem driving and finding parking (europe urban design for my case). At the end the less the home travels, the less likely is to get damaged, which I think is a serious threat since a simple driving accident can mean month of repairs without an house. So reduced travel from point A to B and car usage for small trips is a huge benefit.
There are pros and cons to both, you have to be more careful where you park for the night in a caravan because you can't just crawl into the driver seat and leave if something dodgy is going on outside, depends where you happen to be travelling. You're also more vulnerable to having either the tow vehicle stolen over night, or the 'van if you drop it to go into a town or whatnot. If I were exclusively using secure sites I'd probably pick a caravan, other wise I'd choose a camper van, well, I would if I hadn't decided to live on a boat instead, easier to find places to park. ;)
Possibly. If you want more space to move around and store things, yeah. But as she pointed out, if you want to be more nimble I guess (ie. be able to leave at a moment's notice) a van might be better. I personally couldn't see myself living in a van (too cramped and not enough space) but possibly a camper.
@@diver0129 Things cost more on a boat project, more than you expect if it's your first one, things you don't think about like having to buy stainless steel screws etc. Having said that, a boat should hold it's value better if looked after and in my experience it's easier to find nice places to stay with less hassle. I'm finishing mine so it's still usable as a proper boat rather than a floating home and will go travelling in it eventually.
We were lucky enough to meet Karen last year, during her UK tour. We can confirm that she is as lovely in real life as she comes across in this video. It was a shame that we weren’t able to spend more time with her, as she had lovely stories to share and is great company. Looking forward to seeing her again in New Zealand some time soon. Best wishes, Karen. Jamie & Stacey
Thank you for this, I have just bought a caravan almost the same model but with no back bedroom, I was a graphic designer too so I am pleased you can do all that on the move The same problem,no funds to buy a house, looked at tiny homes but the caravan has all you need except space. Much of the technology is out there to update the caravan as you have done power wise. Very encouraging to watch. Best wishes
Been living in a similar caravan for 6,5 years, and still loving it, before that 3,5 years in a Lakota style tipi which was great weren't it not for the cold and wet weather in the Netherlands, Best tip for caravan living is going full electric, (heating, cooking) you don't have to haul gas tanks all the time and you're never running out when you're halfway done cooking, and go LED for lighting, it saves quite a bit on bills.
I've been living in vans and campers for the past decade in The Netherlands and I know most of the camper parking spots are camper-only... I've been thinking about getting a caravan but I'd hate to go find a campground every day. Do you stay a lot in campings or is there a way to live out of a caravan in public spaces that I'm not aware of?
We've had a very similar Sterling model to this one for long weekends and holidays all year round since 1998. It was 2 years old when we bought it and it is now stored on a farm in Wales. We toured with it for about 5 years before deciding to park it in Wales. It's had a lot of use, but still looks good. We should have stayed in it for 4 long weekends by now and we're due to stay in it next week for the whole week. Personally I would find it too small for us to live full time, but we could if we needed to.
Those of you who stay in The Netherlands in a caravan, van or tent. I would like to do it but how do you keep an adress for your health care insurance and such, everything I can figure out but this one is in my way so I figured I'd ask.
@@susietalks1989 You can set up an adress as your postal adress. The problem here is that a regular PO box isn't allowed for this. You either register yourself at a friend, family or the salvation army (Leger des Heils).
I live in a thirty foot Airstream. I recently bought a 1949 vintage travel trailer that I LOVE, it is in perfect condition and has everything you need ....It is the cutest thing ever...
I've followed Karen's channel for over a year now and she's awesome! She's a very brave lady who isn't afraid to tackle new projects and travel to new places. Her travels in New Zealand have been amazing as well as her caravanning trip to the UK last summer. Her restoration of the vintage caravan has been very interesting to watch, can't wait to see the end result! 👍🏼
@Katz 29 - Unless I missed it, I didn't see her channel info listed here. Would you be willing to give me that info? I also like to check out her channel. Thanks Muchly 🙏🏼
This lady has such a buoyant character and it looks great how sorted her life is. It feels great to see how big her life is even in this tiny camper van.
@rapunzel eh? You mean a house or apartment? I live in the centre of a city, my children and I are hardly enjoying the urban imprisonment, and I enjoy even less uncertainty created by my mortgage payment corroding into my retirement savings. I can imagine people paying rent enjoying that even less. I would personally prefer to have the option of driving my home away into some rural area and just drive in for groceries and not having to worry about affording the upkeep. However, I do prefer a catamaran.
Wife and I ,spent 5 years around Australia, in a caravan mainly free camping. When ever we felt the campsite was a “ Bit dodgy” we left the car attached. So the van was level and from memory we only had to leave in a rush twice ! Marvellous adventure.
Interesting what you wrote John. I am 68 now. But two years ago, I backpacked and hostelled in Australia for a few months. Also found it a bit rough and sketchy in places. I live in Switzerland and would say it is very safe to walk alone at any time of day or night. Lived in South Africa for a few years 1981 - 1989 and that was also not safe. Even with Apartheid before it ended. The joy of returning home to Switzerland was more than a joy. Believe me. With the name John, I guess you live in an English speaking country. Here in CH, it is Gian (John).
1 11 , Hallo 1.11, Wow that sounds very secretive, Yes I left the UK in 1971 to come to Australia, then found and married an English girl, and so I do hold onto my British jokes. I envy you living in Switzerland 🇨🇭 so very picturesque take care .
@@johnshares Hi John, So you are from UK and now living in AU. Enjoy the British humour. The Swiss are very nice and friendly but at the same seious about life. But that is life for us Swiss. We have rules here, but they are for our own good. CH is most certainly a beautiful, peaceful and interesting place to live. Although the EU kind of do not like us, because we have Direct Democracy voting and the Swiss Franc is too strong for their liking. But CH, in no bats an eyelid at the EU bleating about this or that. I live in Zurich. When in AU, I really fell in love with Uluru. Spent about 8 days there. Not getting board for one moment. If I were to live in AU, think it would be Adelaide. Do not know why, but felt I was in a little niche there. Did not do the West side of AU. AU is so large. one really needs two trips trips to take it all in. Have heard Darwin is charming. Where are you situated? Kindest greetings and enjoy this coming week.
I'm curious as to what the circumstances were where you had to leave in a rush... bad neighbors? Sounds like camping in Australia would be quite an adventure.
Daniel - S/V Rhapsody Hello Daniel, lets just say when we where set up in a lay-by at sun down and a 4 wd came in with 3 characters more than drunk shouting and drove into the bush, the feeling was, when or will they return ? I Pushed everything on table onto seats and we moved out. On the whole we did ok over 5 years. Stayed at several free camp sites for 2 - 3 months, thanks to solar panels and large water tanks. Regards John
Karen, I admire your intelligence in the choices you made regarding your caravan, if I could go back in time I would do the same as you did. God bless you, hugs from Brazil.
she seems like a cool person...great small home...miss seeing Matt and Danielle at the start of the video....such lovely people...God bless good souls everywhere:)
Funny how you say that when in the US i've lived several years in places where I never knew my neighbours lol. I don't think they'll be much difference at all.
Socializing is easy, you meet people EVERYWHERE and they are often interested in how my life is different. I also am a vocalist so going to sing brings me a lot of socializing. You meet people at the gas station, grocery store, walking in the wilderness you can come across campers. As for dating, I am quite content being single for life by choice. They would cramp my lifestyle unless they had their own camper.
Nice to see someone living in a custom build tiny house (though I love seeing those). And acknowledging the ease of just going and choosing something and getting it there and then.
Great video and thanks for sharing. I've been living this exact way for 3 years myself. My 10 year plan is to keep on living this way. It's a simple and affordable way to live. A lot better than paying outrageous rent.
Good for you young lady. The most important thing in life is being happy which apparently you are . Don't let anyone hold you back from enjoying life. Have a great day.
Started my caravan project here in the UK 🇬🇧 - seems like the most practical solution if you’re looking to stay in places for longer periods of time but move around for change of scenery every now and then.
Thank you for letting us into your home to show us the lifestyle. I'm only a few years from retirement and considering seriously doing the same. You'r well organized and above all well adapted to the living. Lots of love from Arizona USA.
I love your caravan. I also think how your going about living is wonderful. You have great confidence and will be successful for years to come. Be safe, stay well.
This is AMAZING! Good on her! As an Englishman who's spent a few months travelling with Intercity up and down New Zealand and who spent holidays nearly every year as a child at caravan holiday parks (they're a big thing in the UK); I say anything that lets you see as much as you can of the land of the long white cloud is amazing......just, try to spend a bit more time in the South Island; It's so beautiful.
Hahaha, me too. Lone wolf here as well. I do have a partner, but we live apart, don't have- or want kids and we both require a lot of time by ourselves. :)
Love this video as it is about a solo lady traveller. Yes, the safety aspect concerned me and I am glad she spoke about it. Probably ok for New Zealand but for some places with more safety concerns, a van would be safer. ❤
This is truly all the space a person needs. I will always have a dog with me which I would more likely be the one to protect my dog, but the barking is enough to scare anyone with ill intent, away! My husband has set our van up with solar and it's enough to run the van and a camper which eventually I plan to get because we can't stand up in the van. I might just add a topper that makes it tall enough to stand in easily. We shall see. In the meantime, I hope all is well with Karen and her boyfriend. That sounds like the perfect set-up!
What a great rig! I've been living in Canada in my 2- foot Forest River Rpod 180 for 3 years and I still love it. Her little trailer is so well-appointed and comfy looking. Thanks for posting this. Now I know I'm not the only one who decided not to waste a perfectly good life by working for a house to store stuff for the house.
Wow I love your honesty about things that are good, bad and safe, the way in which you explain how things work and the troubles you can face, Thank you I now know what to look for
We have had a touring caravan for three seasons now, we have two daughters (11 & 12). We had thought about full time van living but felt it’s impractical for us at the moment. However we are still seriously considering it when the girls have left school. Some families live just fine in caravans but for us, it would take away the novelty of being away in the caravan. We love travelling K and have followed her for over two years now.
@@harls3337 True, I worked in slums and noticed that in the middle of slums there are occasionally beautiful houses. When you're raised in one and you do financially well in life, this is your community and you want to stay among your friends, family..
It just clicked who you are, You are the lady that came over to the UK a while back ??, It's great to see you doing well and living well, Thats a nice setup you have there and I just did the Maths and I could save a fortune living like that, I have a small Camper but with a small Caravan I could save a heap and have the best of both worlds. Great Video Karen, keep up the good work and stay safe.
I love the euro designed campers versus most on the market here in the USA. The grey water system is genius! Never seen something like that before. Also love all the windows and the skylight
Travelling K is a wonderful example of someone adapting to living and working in a small space - just as you both did when you started this channel. Long may it be so. 😷👍🖖😷
Don't envy, just do it. I've been doing it for years in Canada you have no idea how liberating it can be. If you wait you will regret not doing it sooner. If you decide you don't like it (unlikely) you can always go back to how you are now if you leave some items in storage.
Why can we not have caravans/trailers like this in the United States??? I love the layout and openness for the size, and even the shape...Thank you for another wonderful interview and tour. 💗
My wife and I are starting this life in 2 weeks 🥺💖💖 I'm so excited for my life to not depend on being an "AAA tenant no pets no smoking no friends no guests no food no snoring credit check and 4 references"
That is a really great looking travel trailer. The floor plan and build quality seems to be much better than some of the junk we are offered here in the US. Being a single axle trailer it must tow well and be very maneuverable. Thanks for the video. Like I tell my son: If you own a travel trailer, you can never be homeless!
@Pete Coventry don't think she's fake. Bailey caravans brought her over to England and let her use one of their caravans to tour England, Peugeot loans a car too, it's called promo work
@Pete Coventry is she fake Pete? She's shacked up with a guy that lives in a bus and is doing up a vintage van on the same site as the van she lives in - would love to know if you're right.
Your story gives inspiration to those who are planning to live in rural. We would love to share this with our customers who bought vacant land from us and planning to live away from the city. They will surely get awesome ideas from your videos.
Hi, I am so ready for this!!! I’m so tired of working/struggling full time to barely survive. I want more time to do what I want to do, which is Biking, hiking, Kayaking, Exploring, and making music on a computer with my guitars. I am a very young 50. *** my concern is I’m addicted to internet, electricity, My Hobbies, and Hot Showers.
I've been watching Karen's channel for some time now but it was still nice getting to see the details of her van again and hear all about her experience in one video.
I love her youtube channel. I've been following it for a long time. I love the New Zealand scenery and all the information she provides about an alternate way of living.
That's nothing, have a look at some of the more modern UK/Euro designs from Bailey and Swift - the window stretches from the bottom of Karen's window and goes through to the roof. Lucky to have these caravans in Europe, seem to be exported a lot.
Very cool. I’ve been living in my full off road full off grid caravan while travelling Australia for over the last 3 years. I had a huge house but downsized for more freedom and better lifestyle and I totally love it. I’ll not be buying a house ever again I’m sure of that.
I love your tiny home and how honest you are about the storage space... it gives me insight on what I would need for storage with food and clothes when I take the plung to buy a tiny home.
there are different solutions available, for example managed offices and coworking spaces like regus provide a "virtual office" with an address and post collection for less than $100 per annum. Amazon also provides free delivery to its lockers that are located all over in many countries.
I enjoyed watching how this courageous gal makes an interesting life for herself. I work part time at the Martins Bay Holiday Park, in the North of NZ and see many types of visiting caravans. The beauty of being in NZ is the wonderful land and seascapes that you can enjoy as well as inexpensive Department of Conservation camping grounds that are very common. When one has a large network of friends across the whole country this allows you far more leeway as you can visit and also help with gardening, farming and maintenance when being a guest.
Mostly successful men and women you see today also pass through this , but they didn't give up , and when they started making money , they used wisely most especially they invested wisely
@@thomsonkaribyron5407 I have been anonymously seeking investment advice on stocks and cryptocurrency. which is more profitable and flexible to invest in for short and long capital appreciation...
Bitcoin trading right now should be on every financial caution individualist in few months will be ecstatic with the decision you made today. Bitcoin is the future!!
@@dulledcamelback8432 Investments carry risk the market could crash for various reason companies could go bankrupt or in a positive sense a stock could soar over time Rick's is important when you decide to add different asset to your portfolio.
Wonderful. That's what motivated us to start our channel and spread the word about tiny living. Your channel does it so much better than our little one. Thanks so much.👍⛺😍
usmcpound Incomes have risen and taxes have fallen in real terms over the last forty years. People have more than ever. However house price rises have vastly outstripped rising incomes. My parents first home cost them just over a years combined salary. Today, someone on an average wage needs ten years salary to purchase the average U.K. home. The last generation made a killing from property, and now we are funding their retirement!
How lovely. Good on you, Karen. I am a Kiwi of Indian origin, running a hospital in Tanzania for the past nine years. The hospital has taken everything out of me and I am somehow trying to save it. Its touch and go. Whatever happens, I have decided to return to NZ soon after this COVID gets resolved and will need to look for some such lifestyle. I am 65 and my 85-year old mom is with me! So, it's going to be quite a challenge! I have started writing my Tanzanian experience and hope to publish the book that will be called "Keeping Africa Healthy" which is the punchline of my hospital Sanitas (sanitashospital.co.tz). I guess I shall look at giving consultations to aspiring entrepreneurs, giving talks wherever I get the opportunity. I bring a rich experience in leadership all over the world. Thanks for your video. You are absolutely gutsy and wonderful
I moved from a rented house to buying a 29ft jayco caravan in Paeaparaumu, Lindale theirs a room on one side for my painting and computer in the caravan i have a dish washer more then i had in a house the caravan does not move i have a veg garden out back a small shed for the washer and dryer yes its been the best moved and much cheaper living love it and wish i moved there sooner not more renting....
Only the paint chip eating short bus seat warmers. On the other hand .military's the world over love the "me first" people when they call for volunteers check a field for landmines .
Your set up is great! I have noticed that no one uses Cuisineart air fryer. No bigger than a microwave oven and there is a compact size. You can do toast, bake, and air fry all sorts of delicious healthy meals.
Love that you're featuring someone who has been in their setup for a few years! Sometimes channels feature someone who has only been living this way for a few months. While it's nice to see those spaces, I believe that experience really helps to know what works, what doesn't work, and what you really need to make tiny living enjoyable 💙
Indeed, aged wisdom is best wisdom!
Completely agree! Also, loving that the tiny didn't cost the same amount as a traditional home 🥰
I see more tiny homes that are double the cost of my almost 2k sqft home. It seriously deters me from the idea.
It seems like a trailer is a better idea than a van. If the vehicle pulling it dies for some reason, you can replace it without replacing your home.
True! Also it is possible to use the car separately, like day trips, cities, groceries, without spending too much on gasoline and having less problem driving and finding parking (europe urban design for my case). At the end the less the home travels, the less likely is to get damaged, which I think is a serious threat since a simple driving accident can mean month of repairs without an house. So reduced travel from point A to B and car usage for small trips is a huge benefit.
There are pros and cons to both, you have to be more careful where you park for the night in a caravan because you can't just crawl into the driver seat and leave if something dodgy is going on outside, depends where you happen to be travelling. You're also more vulnerable to having either the tow vehicle stolen over night, or the 'van if you drop it to go into a town or whatnot. If I were exclusively using secure sites I'd probably pick a caravan, other wise I'd choose a camper van, well, I would if I hadn't decided to live on a boat instead, easier to find places to park. ;)
Possibly. If you want more space to move around and store things, yeah. But as she pointed out, if you want to be more nimble I guess (ie. be able to leave at a moment's notice) a van might be better. I personally couldn't see myself living in a van (too cramped and not enough space) but possibly a camper.
@@popuptoaster a boat is really what I want. 😁
@@diver0129 Things cost more on a boat project, more than you expect if it's your first one, things you don't think about like having to buy stainless steel screws etc.
Having said that, a boat should hold it's value better if looked after and in my experience it's easier to find nice places to stay with less hassle. I'm finishing mine so it's still usable as a proper boat rather than a floating home and will go travelling in it eventually.
We were lucky enough to meet Karen last year, during her UK tour. We can confirm that she is as lovely in real life as she comes across in this video. It was a shame that we weren’t able to spend more time with her, as she had lovely stories to share and is great company. Looking forward to seeing her again in New Zealand some time soon.
Best wishes, Karen.
Jamie & Stacey
Thank you for this, I have just bought a caravan almost the same model but with no back bedroom, I was a graphic designer too so I am pleased you can do all that on the move The same problem,no funds to buy a house, looked at tiny homes but the caravan has all you need except space. Much of the technology is out there to update the caravan as you have done power wise. Very encouraging to watch. Best wishes
Exploring Alternatives has the most sensible alternative living videos on RUclips. Thanks for the great content!
Thanks for the positive feedback, happy you're enjoying the videos!! :)
I agree!
@@ExploringAlternatives how do you get power for fridge sockets ECT
@@jaspreetb1547 🙂
افزردن به پاسخ عمومی
Been living in a similar caravan for 6,5 years, and still loving it, before that 3,5 years in a Lakota style tipi which was great weren't it not for the cold and wet weather in the Netherlands, Best tip for caravan living is going full electric, (heating, cooking) you don't have to haul gas tanks all the time and you're never running out when you're halfway done cooking, and go LED for lighting, it saves quite a bit on bills.
I've been living in vans and campers for the past decade in The Netherlands and I know most of the camper parking spots are camper-only... I've been thinking about getting a caravan but I'd hate to go find a campground every day. Do you stay a lot in campings or is there a way to live out of a caravan in public spaces that I'm not aware of?
We've had a very similar Sterling model to this one for long weekends and holidays all year round since 1998. It was 2 years old when we bought it and it is now stored on a farm in Wales. We toured with it for about 5 years before deciding to park it in Wales. It's had a lot of use, but still looks good. We should have stayed in it for 4 long weekends by now and we're due to stay in it next week for the whole week. Personally I would find it too small for us to live full time, but we could if we needed to.
Aah, thanks for the tip!
Those of you who stay in The Netherlands in a caravan, van or tent. I would like to do it but how do you keep an adress for your health care insurance and such, everything I can figure out but this one is in my way so I figured I'd ask.
@@susietalks1989 You can set up an adress as your postal adress. The problem here is that a regular PO box isn't allowed for this. You either register yourself at a friend, family or the salvation army (Leger des Heils).
I live in a thirty foot Airstream. I recently bought a 1949 vintage travel trailer that I LOVE, it is in perfect condition and has everything you need ....It is the cutest thing ever...
Cool!
Hi
I envy you, to own an Airstream and live in it sounds like a dream to me.
What did you do with the airstream after moving into the new home?
Sounds like this girl has her life
organised. Nothing to tie her down. Enjoyed this. Thanks.
John Taylor All that gets very heavy going in later life. Wish her well. 🇬🇧
And that's the key.
John Taylor, just because she's loving this way now doesn't mean she'll be living like this for her whole life. People change. Priorities change.
@@andrewhudson2860 What's with all the old people buying RV's and living on the road then?
@John Taylor wow such a negative outlook, when that happens she'll decide what to do. Life changes and nothing is ever permanent.
nice too see someone doing what THEY want for a change, genuine inspiration
So glad you guys interviewed her! I saw an older interview of hers and she seems like such a cool lady.
Hi
I've followed Karen's channel for over a year now and she's awesome! She's a very brave lady who isn't afraid to tackle new projects and travel to new places. Her travels in New Zealand have been amazing as well as her caravanning trip to the UK last summer. Her restoration of the vintage caravan has been very interesting to watch, can't wait to see the end result! 👍🏼
@Katz 29 - Unless I missed it, I didn't see her channel info listed here. Would you be willing to give me that info? I also like to check out her channel.
Thanks Muchly 🙏🏼
@@RevdUp.Art.Fotografer Her channel name has now changed to: Travelling K - RV and Homestead.
This lady has such a buoyant character and it looks great how sorted her life is. It feels great to see how big her life is even in this tiny camper van.
maybe a positive thing to come out of this COVID pandemic, is that people will rediscover the joys of 'home' - big or small...
@rapunzel eh? You mean a house or apartment? I live in the centre of a city, my children and I are hardly enjoying the urban imprisonment, and I enjoy even less uncertainty created by my mortgage payment corroding into my retirement savings. I can imagine people paying rent enjoying that even less. I would personally prefer to have the option of driving my home away into some rural area and just drive in for groceries and not having to worry about affording the upkeep. However, I do prefer a catamaran.
Wife and I ,spent 5 years around Australia, in a caravan mainly free camping. When ever we felt the campsite was a “ Bit dodgy” we left the car attached. So the van was level and from memory we only had to leave in a rush twice ! Marvellous adventure.
Interesting what you wrote John.
I am 68 now. But two years ago,
I backpacked and hostelled in
Australia for a few months. Also
found it a bit rough and sketchy in
places. I live in Switzerland and
would say it is very safe to walk
alone at any time of day or night.
Lived in South Africa for a few years 1981 - 1989 and that was
also not safe. Even with Apartheid before it ended. The
joy of returning home to Switzerland was more than a
joy. Believe me. With the name
John, I guess you live in an English speaking country. Here
in CH, it is Gian (John).
1 11 , Hallo 1.11, Wow that sounds very secretive, Yes I left the UK in 1971 to come to Australia, then found and married an English girl, and so I do hold onto my British jokes. I envy you living in Switzerland 🇨🇭 so very picturesque take care .
@@johnshares Hi John, So
you are from UK and now
living in AU. Enjoy the British
humour. The Swiss are very
nice and friendly but at the
same seious about life. But
that is life for us Swiss. We
have rules here, but they are
for our own good. CH is most
certainly a beautiful, peaceful
and interesting place to live.
Although the EU kind of do
not like us, because we have
Direct Democracy voting and
the Swiss Franc is too strong
for their liking. But CH, in no
bats an eyelid at the EU bleating
about this or that. I live in
Zurich. When in AU, I really
fell in love with Uluru. Spent
about 8 days there. Not getting
board for one moment. If I were
to live in AU, think it would be
Adelaide. Do not know why,
but felt I was in a little niche
there. Did not do the West
side of AU. AU is so large.
one really needs two trips
trips to take it all in. Have
heard Darwin is charming.
Where are you situated?
Kindest greetings and enjoy
this coming week.
I'm curious as to what the circumstances were where you had to leave in a rush... bad neighbors?
Sounds like camping in Australia would be quite an adventure.
Daniel - S/V Rhapsody Hello Daniel, lets just say when we where set up in a lay-by at sun down and a 4 wd came in with 3 characters more than drunk shouting and drove into the bush, the feeling was, when or will they return ? I Pushed everything on table onto seats and we moved out. On the whole we did ok over 5 years. Stayed at several free camp sites for 2 - 3 months, thanks to solar panels and large water tanks. Regards John
Karen, I admire your intelligence in the choices you made regarding your caravan, if I could go back in time I would do the same as you did.
God bless you, hugs from Brazil.
A caravan with toilet and shower. Perfect. ✨
Now all she needs is a fridge
@@Octaviuseats it already has ond
she seems like a cool person...great small home...miss seeing Matt and Danielle at the start of the video....such lovely people...God bless good souls everywhere:)
You are truly blessed with a simpler lifestyle.
I've always wondered how people managed to date/socialize while living more nomadic. Glad she addressed it. Seems like a very interesting life style.
Funny how you say that when in the US i've lived several years in places where I never knew my neighbours lol. I don't think they'll be much difference at all.
Socializing is easy, you meet people EVERYWHERE and they are often interested in how my life is different. I also am a vocalist so going to sing brings me a lot of socializing. You meet people at the gas station, grocery store, walking in the wilderness you can come across campers. As for dating, I am quite content being single for life by choice. They would cramp my lifestyle unless they had their own camper.
Nice to see someone living in a custom build tiny house (though I love seeing those). And acknowledging the ease of just going and choosing something and getting it there and then.
Did a double take when she mentioned the temps in Fahrenheit, as I was expecting to hear temps in celsius.
hehe i think she knows she has a lot of overseas followers :) - us NZ watchers already know what the climates like ;)
Great video and thanks for sharing. I've been living this exact way for 3 years myself. My 10 year plan is to keep on living this way. It's a simple and affordable way to live. A lot better than paying outrageous rent.
"i started dating someone who lives in a bus" this is the only place in internet you can hear it :D
🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣
Just love her story! So inspirational. Karen has a wonderfully organized mind -- speaks clearly and logically.
You’ve got the best videos, nomad stories and tours! I love this space.
Thanks so much Elsa!
I agree with you Elsa👍
And Barron😉
Good for you young lady. The most important thing in life is being happy which apparently you are . Don't let anyone hold you back from enjoying life. Have a great day.
Good for you. I really like all the windows and light of your unit, nice setup...
Started my caravan project here in the UK 🇬🇧 - seems like the most practical solution if you’re looking to stay in places for longer periods of time but move around for change of scenery every now and then.
I absolutely love the bathroom. Tiny, compact and looks like a closet. Perfect.
Thank you for letting us into your home to show us the lifestyle. I'm only a few years from retirement and considering seriously doing the same. You'r well organized and above all well adapted to the living. Lots of love from Arizona USA.
How is it going Gene😀?
I love your caravan. I also think how your going about living is wonderful. You have great confidence and will be successful for years to come. Be safe, stay well.
It looks like peace of mind to me. This is exactly what I'm interested in. Great video!
Yay! Travelling K. She's got great content on her channel and blog.
That is a great caravan! Very organized! I love all the windows and your lounge area.
This is AMAZING! Good on her! As an Englishman who's spent a few months travelling with Intercity up and down New Zealand and who spent holidays nearly every year as a child at caravan holiday parks (they're a big thing in the UK); I say anything that lets you see as much as you can of the land of the long white cloud is amazing......just, try to spend a bit more time in the South Island; It's so beautiful.
What a lovely, simple setup. You are surrounded by fresh air and nature. Well done!
I wonder how many people plus me in this world prefer to enjoy their life by being alone ?!!
Me👋👋👋🇳🇿🙌
Hahaha, me too. Lone wolf here as well. I do have a partner, but we live apart, don't have- or want kids and we both require a lot of time by ourselves. :)
Meeeeee! I often go weeks at a time being alone
Me 100%. So much better than wasting time on negative, vain people who drain the energy right out of you. Don’t need that in my life 😁😁
@@GGGirl55 %100 I agree with you 👌
Thank you so much for reviewing this well equipped trailer but also the life style insight. Best wishes with your personal life.
Love this video as it is about a solo lady traveller. Yes, the safety aspect concerned me and I am glad she spoke about it. Probably ok for New Zealand but for some places with more safety concerns, a van would be safer. ❤
This is truly all the space a person needs. I will always have a dog with me which I would more likely be the one to protect my dog, but the barking is enough to scare anyone with ill intent, away! My husband has set our van up with solar and it's enough to run the van and a camper which eventually I plan to get because we can't stand up in the van. I might just add a topper that makes it tall enough to stand in easily. We shall see. In the meantime, I hope all is well with Karen and her boyfriend. That sounds like the perfect set-up!
The one thing I'd do differently is keep the micro wave, can't live without mine :-)
really? I use it about twice a year- it is currently a bread bin with a clock
@@olik136 dang
What a great rig! I've been living in Canada in my 2- foot Forest River Rpod 180 for 3 years and I still love it. Her little trailer is so well-appointed and comfy looking. Thanks for posting this. Now I know I'm not the only one who decided not to waste a perfectly good life by working for a house to store stuff for the house.
I had never seen your water hookup. The rolling thing is great.
Very common in the UK. Its often called an aqua roll although that is a brand name.
i remember seeing it in France 20 years ago, owned by a British caravan owner, so it seems to be a British invention which is very cool!
@@williamedgarperrigo9813 yes they are. The Aqua roll is used by most British caravaners including myself😁👍
Wow I love your honesty about things that are good, bad and safe, the way in which you explain how things work and the troubles you can face, Thank you I now know what to look for
Love that caravan. I'd like to have that exact model if I could find one in the USA.
How does this caravan differ to a caravan built in the States? (Apart from obvious mains electrics etc )
It looks better then most
@@bangbangcfp and it has a LOT of windows! love it, too
We have had a touring caravan for three seasons now, we have two daughters (11 & 12). We had thought about full time van living but felt it’s impractical for us at the moment. However we are still seriously considering it when the girls have left school. Some families live just fine in caravans but for us, it would take away the novelty of being away in the caravan. We love travelling K and have followed her for over two years now.
I’d much rather have a caravan in the hills, than a mansion in the slums.
Ten Minute Tokyo 2: Question: how many mansions exist amidst slums???
chippledon1 It was a reference to an old Crowded House song.
chippledon1 a lot actually
@@tenminutetokyo2643 I got it :-)
@@harls3337 True, I worked in slums and noticed that in the middle of slums there are occasionally beautiful houses. When you're raised in one and you do financially well in life, this is your community and you want to stay among your friends, family..
It just clicked who you are, You are the lady that came over to the UK a while back ??, It's great to see you doing well and living well, Thats a nice setup you have there and I just did the Maths and I could save a fortune living like that, I have a small Camper but with a small Caravan I could save a heap and have the best of both worlds. Great Video Karen, keep up the good work and stay safe.
Good job this woman seems to have it all figured out. Safe travels
I love the euro designed campers versus most on the market here in the USA. The grey water system is genius! Never seen something like that before. Also love all the windows and the skylight
I feel more relaxed just watching this video. 👍🙂
Travelling K is a wonderful example of someone adapting to living and working in a small space - just as you both did when you started this channel. Long may it be so. 😷👍🖖😷
I really envy her lifestyle, hopefully this will be me one day.
It will be you!!
You can do it. You can buy a decent caravan for a few grand it’s not mega expensive. They are cheap to buy me cheap to run, so just go for it...
Don't envy, just do it. I've been doing it for years in Canada you have no idea how liberating it can be. If you wait you will regret not doing it sooner. If you decide you don't like it (unlikely) you can always go back to how you are now if you leave some items in storage.
Love the fact you are so honest. Great video watching from Scotland.
Why can we not have caravans/trailers like this in the United States??? I love the layout and openness for the size, and even the shape...Thank you for another wonderful interview and tour. 💗
Karen van Eersel I agree!!!
Her caravan is a UK caravan. It's very standard in appearance and layout for a UK caravan. Brits like a traditional, homely look in their caravans.
The interior reminds me of a boat and you just don’t find that in the US unfortunately
You are living the life! And you are the envy of many people. Good for you! I wish you peace and happiness in all of your ventures. Odie from Kentucky
That water tank at 4:28 min., I totally thought it's her "washing machine" LOL
Great idea Alena
She thinks it her dog. She has gone mad.
Its certainly a good idea though wash your clothes while you shop or exercise looooool
Patent that idea, quick! :-)
My wife and I are starting this life in 2 weeks 🥺💖💖 I'm so excited for my life to not depend on being an "AAA tenant no pets no smoking no friends no guests no food no snoring credit check and 4 references"
The travel trailer is much nicer than trailers they have in the usa
I was thinking the same thing. Superior in every detail.
That is a really great looking travel trailer. The floor plan and build quality seems to be much better than some of the junk we are offered here in the US. Being a single axle trailer it must tow well and be very maneuverable. Thanks for the video. Like I tell my son: If you own a travel trailer, you can never be homeless!
She did a good series on touring the UK in a caravan recently.
What about heat and air?
@Pete Coventry Is there a video, more info on this?
@Pete Coventry don't think she's fake. Bailey caravans brought her over to England and let her use one of their caravans to tour England, Peugeot loans a car too, it's called promo work
@Pete Coventry is she fake Pete? She's shacked up with a guy that lives in a bus and is doing up a vintage van on the same site as the van she lives in - would love to know if you're right.
Your story gives inspiration to those who are planning to live in rural. We would love to share this with our customers who bought vacant land from us and planning to live away from the city. They will surely get awesome ideas from your videos.
Cool seeing Karen here. Been following on her chanel too
Hi,
I am so ready for this!!!
I’m so tired of working/struggling full time to barely survive. I want more time to do what I want to do, which is Biking, hiking, Kayaking, Exploring, and making music on a computer with my guitars. I am a very young 50.
*** my concern is I’m addicted to internet, electricity, My Hobbies, and Hot Showers.
Maybe add a Lagun mount table for extra counter space in the kitchen.
I love the way this caravan is designed, especially the bathroom. Looks very comfortable.
Glad you took out the microwave. I tossed mine over a decade ago, never missed it.
I've been watching Karen's channel for some time now but it was still nice getting to see the details of her van again and hear all about her experience in one video.
I have been thinking that camping means hiding and shooting in Fps Game. But this video proves it wrong
Best Millennial quote in a long time!
I love her youtube channel. I've been following it for a long time. I love the New Zealand scenery and all the information she provides about an alternate way of living.
Really cool camper with those giant front windows.
That's nothing, have a look at some of the more modern UK/Euro designs from Bailey and Swift - the window stretches from the bottom of Karen's window and goes through to the roof. Lucky to have these caravans in Europe, seem to be exported a lot.
Very cool. I’ve been living in my full off road full off grid caravan while travelling Australia for over the last 3 years. I had a huge house but downsized for more freedom and better lifestyle and I totally love it. I’ll not be buying a house ever again I’m sure of that.
Wow, north America sux when it comes to trailers, that one looks so nice.
Thanks for posting and sharing. Nice to hear from Karen.
I would totally live like this & also, love how you guys interviewed someone who's lived in their caravan, tiny house, airstream, etc.
I love your tiny home and how honest you are about the storage space... it gives me insight on what I would need for storage with food and clothes when I take the plung to buy a tiny home.
I wonder how do you get around something that need a physical address, like having a bank account? or when you want to shopping online?
That's what I wonder too!
Post office box in some cases will take care of that. But not always.
there are different solutions available, for example managed offices and coworking spaces like regus provide a "virtual office" with an address and post collection for less than $100 per annum. Amazon also provides free delivery to its lockers that are located all over in many countries.
20 years ago they were saying "who would never buy online, too risky".. .Matter of perspective.
In USA, the Creativity RV channel explains many insurance solutions to stay properly covered.
I enjoyed watching how this courageous gal makes an interesting life for herself. I work part time at the Martins Bay Holiday Park, in the North of NZ and see many types of visiting caravans. The beauty of being in NZ is the wonderful land and seascapes that you can enjoy as well as inexpensive Department of Conservation camping grounds that are very common. When one has a large network of friends across the whole country this allows you far more leeway as you can visit and also help with gardening, farming and maintenance when being a guest.
Mostly successful men and women you see today also pass through this , but they didn't give up , and when they started making money , they used wisely most especially they invested wisely
That's 100% true , you just speaked my mind
@@thomsonkaribyron5407 I have been anonymously seeking investment advice on stocks and cryptocurrency. which is more profitable and flexible to invest in for short and long capital appreciation...
Bitcoin trading right now should be on every financial caution individualist in few months will be ecstatic with the decision you made today.
Bitcoin is the future!!
@@dulledcamelback8432 Investments carry risk the market could crash for various reason companies could go bankrupt or in a positive sense a stock could soar over time Rick's is important when you decide to add different asset to your portfolio.
@@dulledcamelback8432 For a financial independence of life this is one of kind advice
Karen is super cool and I love her tiny house! I’ll check out her channel for sure 👍
Wonderful. That's what motivated us to start our channel and spread the word about tiny living. Your channel does it so much better than our little one. Thanks so much.👍⛺😍
What about security.. do you feel safe?
She got arsenal under the bed.
Love how you don’t have to compromise on anything ‼️ amazing house 👏🏻
Ive been living in a 23 foot motorhome for 3 years also.
loved this video. Amazing how much freedom she has by keeping it simple. Soon to be even simpler!
I feel bad for this generation, we work hard but still can't afford a house in city.
That's because ya'll are electing officials who love to bump up taxes.
usmcpound Incomes have risen and taxes have fallen in real terms over the last forty years. People have more than ever. However house price rises have vastly outstripped rising incomes. My parents first home cost them just over a years combined salary. Today, someone on an average wage needs ten years salary to purchase the average U.K. home. The last generation made a killing from property, and now we are funding their retirement!
@Lovemusic78566 China didn't get wealth for no reason. Overall, some governments sale their people's benefits to exchange cheaper labor.
What a blessing to live in a country that is safe to live like this
Exactly what I want to do with my life.
I am in too
Sikandar Digital Nomad same
It seem so peaceful and simple
Why don’t you then?
How lovely. Good on you, Karen. I am a Kiwi of Indian origin, running a hospital in Tanzania for the past nine years. The hospital has taken everything out of me and I am somehow trying to save it. Its touch and go. Whatever happens, I have decided to return to NZ soon after this COVID gets resolved and will need to look for some such lifestyle. I am 65 and my 85-year old mom is with me! So, it's going to be quite a challenge! I have started writing my Tanzanian experience and hope to publish the book that will be called "Keeping Africa Healthy" which is the punchline of my hospital Sanitas (sanitashospital.co.tz). I guess I shall look at giving consultations to aspiring entrepreneurs, giving talks wherever I get the opportunity. I bring a rich experience in leadership all over the world. Thanks for your video. You are absolutely gutsy and wonderful
Thank you for watching! Check out Karen's RUclips channel here: ruclips.net/user/travellingk
I moved from a rented house to buying a 29ft jayco caravan in Paeaparaumu, Lindale theirs a room on one side for my painting and computer in the caravan i have a dish washer more then i had in a house the caravan does not move i have a veg garden out back a small shed for the washer and dryer yes its been the best moved and much cheaper living love it and wish i moved there sooner not more renting....
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Everyone: Rushes to comment first! 🤪
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Only the paint chip eating short bus seat warmers. On the other hand .military's the world over love the "me first" people when they call for volunteers check a field for landmines .
Love this option for living. Beautifully surrounded, very well equipped, a dream life and smart! Congratulations!
I envy you in a good way😘.
Your set up is great! I have noticed that no one uses Cuisineart air fryer. No bigger than a microwave oven and there is a compact size. You can do toast, bake, and air fry all sorts of delicious healthy meals.
0:41 "Oi don ave a moagage"
This is one of the best-equipped, best-designed caravan I have ever seen.
My sister was a very good graphic designer but quit doing it because it’s a very stressful job. Now she’s a stay at home mom.
I love her caravan!
Wish I could find one in the USA with similar layout and features.♥️
Honest, simple and ver informative. Thank you. Wish I’d found you sooner 😊