Is VanLife Expensive?! | How much my first month cost living on the road. (Plus NM campground tour.)

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  • Опубликовано: 27 сен 2024
  • Thank you so much for being here!
    I love getting to know all of you so introduce yourself in the comments.
    Breaking down my expenses for you guys. I hope this helps!
    Aguirre Springs Campground: 32.37027, -106.55988
    Thanks to you guys (my subscribers and friends) again for being here. If you're new here, subscribe for more (mini) VanLife content, as well as travel, adventure and becoming a digital nomad.
    xoxo
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    Chantelle Torrey
    19550 Amber Meadow dr.
    Suite 130 - 127
    Bend, Or 97702
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Комментарии • 653

  • @aniassantiago6445
    @aniassantiago6445 3 года назад +74

    The beauty of van life is that u can make ur life as flexible and accommodating on any budget and still see the country. Thanks for the video sis and safe travels.

  • @johnthompson3650
    @johnthompson3650 3 года назад +83

    Thank you I am a 71-year-old senior and I am really appreciative of your statements and comments about Vanlife hoping to do the same soon

    • @deborahpaulin5272
      @deborahpaulin5272 3 года назад +8

      Me too, John. I actually had my minivan kitted out, gave up my apartment, and was on my way to hit the road when the pandemic hit. I didn't get very far. I'm your age. With some health issues, I didnt feel travel would be safe. So now I'm in an apartment, paying same in rent as her total expenses!!! Some day...

    • @MichaelMcDonaldPam
      @MichaelMcDonaldPam 3 года назад +19

      I circumnavigated the whole US for a year camping in a tent and driving a mini cooper. I was also 71. Still camping. This year, not a long trip, but I'm hitting all the campsites in Florida. Her expenses are pretty much in line with what I spent and I'm totally on Social Security. So get out there and enjoy. NEW Mexico is awesome. Get a senior pass. Not all state parks honor it but many do.

    • @juliecastagnaro2868
      @juliecastagnaro2868 3 года назад +3

      Hope your health will be good enough to travel.

    • @darlenehorn8337
      @darlenehorn8337 3 года назад +15

      @@deborahpaulin5272 hello Deborah I started traveling last year. I'm a 68 year old great grandma. I mainly traveled Arizona, Nevada last year. This year's a little different. I'm wintering in Texas than spring hope to go east for a while. I loved it the only problem was I did get lonely at times. It's nice to share adventures with others. Hope you make it out and if so have a safe and careful time. Traveling Grandma

    • @deborahpaulin5272
      @deborahpaulin5272 3 года назад +6

      @@darlenehorn8337 Hi Darlene, thanks for your reply. I'm happy to hear your travels are problem free. I can imagine having feelings of loneliness, but I get that way here at home!😊 Let me know if you come through East Tennessee on the next leg of your adventure. Cheers!

  • @flowers4me745
    @flowers4me745 3 года назад +42

    Be careful with letting joey go out first because coyotes will hide under some vehicles and campers just waiting for a easy meal

    • @marloverrilla1272
      @marloverrilla1272 2 года назад

      Also, hawks and other flying creatures!

    • @moneytactics9658
      @moneytactics9658 Год назад +1

      Yes watch Joey they will take a small dog like him really fast happens more than people think.

  • @LinaMahoney357
    @LinaMahoney357 3 года назад +26

    The financial cost breakdown was really helpful. I also really appreciate the peak into the bathrooms. Thank you.

  • @breathedeep
    @breathedeep 3 года назад +29

    The southwest desert is enchanting. The stars, I bet the sky is awesome at night. My personal bills are crazy high when I’m fixed to a living situation like a house! 😷😷😷🤣🤣🤣🤣. Interested in hearing how you support yourself without being retired! 😌

  • @lovelylia93
    @lovelylia93 3 года назад +45

    Still cheaper than conventional lifestyle but so much more freedom! I'm planning on buying a Prius and I already worked out financial details and estimated about $300-500/month (I am pretty frugal and have no debt and few bills so it's wayyy cheap!) Safe travels to u and Joey!

    • @bitterandcynical
      @bitterandcynical 3 года назад +1

      Are you going to live in your Prius?

    • @lovelylia93
      @lovelylia93 3 года назад +6

      @@bitterandcynical yes, once I actually learn to drive! Lol

    • @sunriseskies3883
      @sunriseskies3883 3 года назад

      @@lovelylia93 so how did it work out Kahlia?? Did that $300 to $500 work out for you? Or did you find you need more $. ??

    • @ruthferguson6100
      @ruthferguson6100 2 года назад

      Worried about Joey getting ahead of you and coyotes around. He is such a doll

    • @helpmeretiresoon5972
      @helpmeretiresoon5972 2 года назад

      I'd say 200 per week with no debt. 50 to 100 a week for food and 50 to 100 a week for gas also cell phone bill. I'd say low end 700 a month to 1100 a month. It's very hard to live any cheaper on your own anywhere really

  • @Livingmydreammm
    @Livingmydreammm 3 года назад +9

    I do door dash. I made 700 this week. You can deliver food!❤️ and you can dash anywhere!!!

    • @atthecrosshealing
      @atthecrosshealing 3 года назад

      How many hours a day did you put in? I’m very interested in doing this but not sure I can make enough $ as a single mom. My kids would be with me on the job.

  • @lindac7146
    @lindac7146 3 года назад +28

    I haven't started van life yet, but I planned on a monthly budget of $300 for gas expenses. So I'm glad to know you travelled 1500 miles within that budget. It's good that you included more categories than less for your budget. Thanks for sharing. I cannot wait to get to New Mexico, when I start my travels.

  • @ang3lbass
    @ang3lbass 3 года назад +11

    My rent alone is more than your total budget! That was super encouraging!

  • @jmlewis435
    @jmlewis435 3 года назад +47

    “You can’t Grub Hub sh!t” LOL

    • @angelaonthego
      @angelaonthego 3 года назад +3

      Umm....actually you can if you get creative 😆 type in the address of the nearest business

  • @jacintasmall7737
    @jacintasmall7737 3 года назад +35

    Great video. I am interested in learning more on how to make money on the road. Happy travels to you and Joey.

  • @soniamozek3085
    @soniamozek3085 3 года назад +5

    Thank you for finally being real! I have been watching all the van life/nomad you tubers for a while and whenever they are asked or talk about how they make money or how much it actually costs, you can almost hear the brakes screech to a halt. Then they provide a shady obtuse answer. It's like they don't want to admit that it is not that cheap or even doable without a job. And they always say they own their own business but never actually say what it is. No one ever says how much they actually make with You Tube either. I have been wanting to do this for a long time, but I have kids so once they are out of high school I plan to. I am trying to save now but I don't even make enough to survive as it is. I have been looking for a remote job for over a year now and have NO LUCK. And I'm not interested in being a You Tuber either. I'm actually a Graphic Designer and still can't find remote work. I highly appreciate your videos and your authenticity.

    • @camcam855
      @camcam855 3 года назад +1

      Alot of the videos I've seen look like people who may be on disability for mental illness. I've known alot of homeless people and their social workers can usually set them up since they're homeless they are probably suffering from depression and anxiety disorders such as ptsd. I have never met anyone, homeless or not, who was not embarrassed to be on social security. I'm not saying they're all on disability, but alot of them are and don't want to admit it because of the stigma

  • @beckyleslie4091
    @beckyleslie4091 3 года назад +6

    Having moved to New Mexico after a lifetime in the midwest, I totally agree that it is a rare gem. If you love the outdoors, sunny skies and plenty places to explore........New Mexico is it! Good luck on your journey and stay safe♡♡♡♡

    • @camcam855
      @camcam855 3 года назад

      What is the weather like in the summer and winter?

    • @beckyleslie4091
      @beckyleslie4091 3 года назад +1

      @@camcam855 Winter lows would be 20's but lots of time it is in the 50's. June - August mid-90"s. It is arid so a dry heat.

  • @joycepollitt7825
    @joycepollitt7825 3 года назад +15

    I watched a video, Sharing the wild.... a Canada van dweller.
    He uses rubber floor mat on his windows, instead of reflectiics, he says it very good insulation.

    • @chasethecat3839
      @chasethecat3839 3 года назад +2

      Yes and there's a company that makes van window coverings, heavy duty, but they are pricey. I did RV life one winter and reflexic and bubble wrap work but not as well as matz or these other coverings available I'm sure

  • @returnofthemac8179
    @returnofthemac8179 3 года назад +12

    Just be careful with Joey, especially when he is running loose near your van. Coyotes could be standing nearby without you even realizing it and pounce. Some of these areas have mountain lions as well.

    • @raymondolguin7550
      @raymondolguin7550 3 года назад +4

      Not to mention the Hawks and Eagles

    • @janineivey03121
      @janineivey03121 3 года назад +3

      I’ve seen little spikey jackets for smaller animals to wear. I’m getting one for my Sophie

    • @returnofthemac8179
      @returnofthemac8179 3 года назад +2

      @@janineivey03121 That might be ok, but if your pup is grab by a leg or rolled over during an attack, it is hard to see how that will protect your dog.

  • @jessicastreet2922
    @jessicastreet2922 3 года назад +19

    You go girl! You are doing great. Your total is just my mortgage payment...

  • @whosaidthat4299
    @whosaidthat4299 3 года назад +38

    I definitely want to go there one day when this pandemic is over and I can cross the border (Canadian) thanks for showing us, and I would be interested in how to generate income on the road. Cheers! 🇨🇦

    • @giddingsrocks
      @giddingsrocks 3 года назад +2

      My sister and I were just talking about this. We live in Michigan and want to cross into Canada for travels. Were hoping the boarder will open this summer. We enjoy your Country! ❤

    • @whosaidthat4299
      @whosaidthat4299 3 года назад +2

      @@giddingsrocks Hopefully soon!!😘

    • @linebrunelle1004
      @linebrunelle1004 2 года назад

      there are quite a few van lifers who talk about income whole on the road, right here on RUclips. good luck to you

  • @shanniwelsh133
    @shanniwelsh133 3 года назад +28

    I’d love to know what you did to prep for life on the road and if you are comfortable sharing, how you make money on the road. Thanks.

    • @sheilagaleano365
      @sheilagaleano365 3 года назад +2

      Always informative : ) Thank you very much. Would also love to learn about making money while traveling : )

  • @shawneeb3771
    @shawneeb3771 3 года назад +1

    A lot of nomads or campers carry a bathroom bag. First Lysol disinfectant spray, toilet paper, paper towels, wet wipes. Now I also carry gloves. Always be prepared rather than sorry. I think you do great with your money and thanks for sharing.

  • @marilynthomson9564
    @marilynthomson9564 3 года назад +7

    Chantel, what a wonderful video and so informative. You have such a great eye for photography and I enjoyed your pictures so very much! Always look forward to your videos.

  • @KellysCreativeDreams
    @KellysCreativeDreams 3 года назад +28

    Noooo... coffee is a necessity! Lol I could give up Netflix and be happy with RUclips lol. You take us to beautiful places. I would batch videos whenever possible then stay in a hotel over 2 weeks to upload. Hear you on women rooms. At a 5-star hotel in co during a conference we had to use the men’s while they deep-cleaned the women’s. I was amazed at how much cleaner the men’s was. Be safe!

    • @Mrs.KatsCrafting
      @Mrs.KatsCrafting 3 года назад +1

      lol I just realized tonight most of the things we pay to see on Netflix is on you tube free

  • @grannianni7681
    @grannianni7681 3 года назад +4

    This was just Wonderful! You forgot to add entertainment......................................all those great views and hiking trails etc, FREE! Another great video, stay safe and Blessings

  • @misslizmoon
    @misslizmoon 3 года назад +4

    Chantel, I am new to your channel. I love how candid you are! I live in NM (in Taos) and I love seeing how appreciative you are of the surrounding landscape! I also love that you are encouraging in regard to a simple (and more realistic!) example of vanlife. Cheers, and all the best to you in your travels. Come check out the Taos area while youre in NM- I bet youd really love it! -Liz

  • @mitchellnm2106
    @mitchellnm2106 3 года назад +2

    So glad you found some of my favorite campgrounds in southern NM. My father in law spent 6 mos of his life at the Rob Jaegger campground at Ft Stanton until he passed away in Oct. He was managing lots of the trails and equestrian events there. Always a special place for my family... and Aguirre Springs is beautiful....safe travels!

  • @LuisRodriguez-rw5fv
    @LuisRodriguez-rw5fv 3 года назад +4

    Thanks for the video. I've never camped out west but from other RUclips videos I've seen they say keep an eye our on your pets. Safe travels to you and Joey. RLTW!

  • @maybenot9449
    @maybenot9449 3 года назад +25

    When I get in my van I have a budget of $200 a week. I will have $1200 a month but I know I have $200 of personal bills and will be saving $200 a month for emergencies or whatever. I won't spend that extra $200 unless its absolutely necessary. So now I know I can do it. Thanks for the information! 🚐❤

  • @bitterandcynical
    @bitterandcynical 3 года назад +7

    I would pay money for a sticker that says “You Can’t Grub Hub Shit”. Really! And thanks for this info. I appreciate that you reassure us that all circumstances are different and we can adjust to our needs. And Joey under the comforter ❣️ Monica, Talahassee, FL (Boris was my cat)

  • @pjdemario1328
    @pjdemario1328 3 года назад +4

    You found another gem of a campsite! Definitely going on the list. Thanks for showing us around 🌞

  • @debslifesimplified6406
    @debslifesimplified6406 3 года назад +5

    Gotta have my morning coffee, I discovered Dunkin Doughnuts, regular coffee and love it. If all I had was You Tube, and coffee in the AM I would be happy. Nice you had the campground all to yourself.

  • @katiemurphy21
    @katiemurphy21 3 года назад +1

    That site... wow, so much room and a covered table. Beautiful and you are absolutely rad as usual! 🤘 kt in Seattle. ☝️🖤

  • @kimhayden954
    @kimhayden954 3 года назад

    You’re my new fav untuned channel. So informative and personal.

  • @kerannasommers7324
    @kerannasommers7324 3 года назад +3

    Excellent video. Thank you for the information. LoL on the ladies restroom- I agree🤣. The landscape is beautiful. I think it's much prettier than White Sands. Praying for safe and fun travels for you.

  • @cyndeeh
    @cyndeeh 3 года назад +13

    Very informative vid. Ty! I'm going to be on the road soon. Yes,I am curious how you make money on the road.

  • @gailmiller7035
    @gailmiller7035 3 года назад

    I am 71 also like John Thompson. I am planning to retire early next year and in the meantime I am going to try camping on BLM land in my car just to make sure I like it before investing in a van and a build. More and more I think I will just do a no-build build thanks to all the tips and tricks I've learned from wonder people like you. Thank you so much for sharing your experience and expertise!

  • @petcatrio6176
    @petcatrio6176 3 года назад +1

    You are such a positive, with great energy person. What an ambassador for Van life you make. Appreciate all your videos and sharing. 🇨🇦❤️🙏

  • @sunshinegirl423677
    @sunshinegirl423677 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for sharing. You are helping so many see this life style is totally doable. I’m spending about the same amount. I also put my planet fitness membership on hold for 6 months. You may want to consider this until pandemic is over. Happy travels.

  • @aknudsen93
    @aknudsen93 3 года назад +3

    You are so good at keeping track of expenses! Thank you for sharing and don’t give up your luxuries, 😊 Anne

  • @lovinglife4962
    @lovinglife4962 2 года назад

    🙋🏽‍♀️Sweetie and Joey 🦴💓❕Great to see you both really 👍🏽👍🏽I enjoy the peace that’s on you darling 🙏🏽. And thank you very much for sharing the great information 😉☀️

  • @halfwaymo9075
    @halfwaymo9075 3 года назад +5

    Beautiful, I'd be having coffee first...I love watching how you live, very entertaining....keep posting......... Missouri 💚

  • @tinabeane
    @tinabeane 3 года назад +2

    That place is so AMAZING!!!!! I camped there last Jan. I was laughing as you described your drive in, I felt the same way. It was so cold for me I didn't get out to make coffee, ha ha!! Thanks for sharing your expenses, this life style gives you so many ways to customize it. Looking forward to hearing how you make it work regarding income. I do hope also you are putting some money away for savings for vehicle repairs or what might be needed. Enjoy your time there and will share the video. Kisses to you and Joey!!

  • @allisonhase9473
    @allisonhase9473 3 года назад +1

    I love how you really show us the day to day! I’ll be doing this soon in my Ridgeline!

  • @boredonawednesday
    @boredonawednesday 3 года назад +6

    I don't think your 1st month total was bad at all, girl. You just be LIVIN! LOL

  • @aprilbaxter2578
    @aprilbaxter2578 3 года назад +1

    It doesn't look like you hit warmer weather yet, however you do look happy. Please do everything you can to isolate as much as you can. Covid is not joke, and too many people think it is just an "ordinary" flu. It is not! Happy travels! Nice to see you and your buddy cuddling. My little buddy does that, too.

    • @MyBasicJourney
      @MyBasicJourney  3 года назад +1

      I definitely take covid seriously and stay away from people as much as possible. I think it's easier to isolate when you're out in nature. We all have to get gas and food, though.(: Thank you❤

  • @SBL1932
    @SBL1932 3 года назад

    I am very pleased to see how much it costs. You were very straight forward and honest with your numbers. Thanks for the info.

  • @sylviamaldonado5078
    @sylviamaldonado5078 3 года назад +3

    Love your videos. This place is so beautiful and healing. I wish i was there.

  • @777steelerfan
    @777steelerfan 3 года назад +3

    I just found and subscribed to your channel, I wish you much success on your journey and success on utube👍🏻🙏🏻👏🏻🇺🇸

  • @stancer61
    @stancer61 3 года назад

    Decades ago I was stationed at White Sands Missile Range which you showed when you panned out. Use to go to where your at for squad parties. It’s one of the prettiest in NM.

  • @firequeen2194
    @firequeen2194 3 года назад

    Shantel, I need another lesson in pour over coffee and I trust you to give it, lol. I tried the last time I took out the camper van out and confess, it was not good. 😳. I’m so close to getting out there. I’m working very hard to semi-retire at 54! I’m thinking of working a seasonal job and I know of one I can get easily that includes unemployment in the off season. So work 7 months, build up cash and hit the road for 5 months. Did I mention I’m SO CLOSE, yay! Can’t wait to be completely debt free and on the road. I want to have the ability and freedom to go where I’m needed. Always wanted to be able to help, think disaster relief, etc. Here’s to the next chapter. Stay safe dear. 😘

  • @user-zd5lq2tm4z
    @user-zd5lq2tm4z 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for sharing your personal finances with us! Definitely seems doable for the rest of us who are looking to live the minivan life!🤗🥳🥰💐🌺🌸💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗💗

  • @sheilacaine3962
    @sheilacaine3962 3 года назад +1

    Thanks for the monthly break down of expenses. I think that was a good amount. Love your videos.

  • @alisinwanderland
    @alisinwanderland 3 года назад +1

    What a beautiful site and view! I am so happy for you that you are making finds like this. Thanks for the breakdown of expenses for the month. You did quite well with everything and they seemed perfectly reasonable. Living in Central Florida, people around here will pay 300-500 a night for a hotel room, so your expenses for the whole month for everything are by far quite reasonable. I can't think of a one week vacation anywhere that would cost that all-in unless it was on a cruise ship, and even then by the time you tip the staff you are well over that for even the cheapest rooms which must be shared.
    - Alis

  • @jeanbarrow8327
    @jeanbarrow8327 3 года назад +14

    Do you ever uneasy when you’re the only one in a certain area?? I’m so impressed that you are so cool!!!

    • @RubyReadsIt
      @RubyReadsIt 3 года назад +1

      People in this country are basically helpful and friendly. You don't hear this on the news.

  • @mayflowers1041
    @mayflowers1041 3 года назад

    Your honesty is very helpful. Thank you!

  • @avichristiaans9058
    @avichristiaans9058 3 года назад +22

    I don't think any rational person would be scared off by $1200 a month. That's not only very affordable, but less than most people's rent. Spend what you can afford, obviously.

  • @karendeleon9347
    @karendeleon9347 3 года назад

    That is one of my biggest stumbling blocks is how to work on the road. Please share with us how you do it. Loved the video and seeing your cute, furry travel companion.

  • @barobinson1689
    @barobinson1689 3 года назад

    I enjoyed your candid video on your expenses. At my age and stage in my life, all I can say is I wish I had done this after my children left home.
    If I sold my house and bought a comfortable tiny van home, I could travel and live on my current income very easily but I left it too late. My children and Grandchildren are too precious to leave behind. Don’t get me wrong, I like my life ( or did pre Covid ) I know I am very fortunate and have more than most in my age group. I worked very hard for 37 years as anRN. so now I relax and enjoy life in a Del Web Senior Community, and watch
    young people travel in their Vans. Love it ! Belly rubs to Joey.

  • @KaioshinAemi
    @KaioshinAemi 3 года назад +13

    I think $1100 is too much for 1 month. I was living in my conversion van for a month. I didn’t pay that much. I travels everyday to different locations, my gas is $200., my food is $300 for 2 people, my phone and insurance were $100, and $100 just for buying random snacks. So $700 for 2 people is pretty good.

    • @artdogg50
      @artdogg50 3 года назад

      I think that would be more my speed and budget. I take it you were mostly camping, boondocking, stealth parking, staying at places like Walmart, or on BLM land?

    • @DestinationsChronicles
      @DestinationsChronicles 3 года назад +3

      She did say, quite a few times, that you can modify it to your needs. It might be to much for you, but it's her life and this is how she wants to live it.

  • @CarlasCorner62
    @CarlasCorner62 3 года назад +1

    I love how she says sh!$ and apologies.. so cute and thoughtful. Thanks for all the great info and I can't wait till i can travel!!

  • @ruthferguson6100
    @ruthferguson6100 2 года назад

    Hi from Key West Florida. Love your journey and Joey is a show stopper.

  • @RescueDogTreats
    @RescueDogTreats 2 года назад

    Thanks for this update...it would be nice to have a similar video current time to gauge how you adjusted to spend more or less depending on how costs shifted (aka gas prices!). Cheers!

  • @dianemccullough5987
    @dianemccullough5987 3 года назад

    Thank you for the budget info. It helps to give an idea of what it may cost and then be able to tweak mine.
    Awesome views!

  • @xstanadu
    @xstanadu 2 года назад

    Looks amazing and so beautiful ~ I’ll be doing some of this soon ~ your imfo is and has been so helpful ~ thank you !!!
    Safe travels ~~~ Lil ‘ Joey is the best 😀

  • @mjmj2860
    @mjmj2860 3 года назад +1

    You do what you want, your happy😊and thats what matters. Look at the beautiful things you have seen and of course your darling little pup! So have a great life good for you! 😎😊

  • @arniegray5108
    @arniegray5108 3 года назад

    Good video. Liked your down to earth commenting. The expenses you had are encouraging, I know they will vary depending on one's life style. I am a senior and who knows, I may get out for a bit. I have a van almost identical to yours. Keep up the good work.

  • @MamaZShaman
    @MamaZShaman 3 года назад

    What a sweet video and appreciate your share! I bought a bus and plan to do a bit of a "build" on it after winter and hoping things calm down, have 3 soon 4 dogs! 26' bus so I heard you say that when you were driving here that vehicles over 22' may not do well with the twists and turns, I will have to be aware of that. Just a lovely video, thank you!

  • @virginia_in_the_rearview
    @virginia_in_the_rearview 3 года назад

    I just found your channel, and I'm really enjoying it. I'm working on renovating a shuttle bus into my full-time home on wheels, and I hope to go full-time in the summer of 2023, when my son graduates high school. Looking forward to more of your adventures.

  • @lewistelle
    @lewistelle 3 года назад

    Very cool! Stay very safe for you and your sweet dog! Lots of peace and happy trails to you! ~ mama Telle

  • @lisarichards3853
    @lisarichards3853 3 года назад +1

    Thank you for explaining this, much appreciated. God bless you and your pup!

  • @gracielaleon4543
    @gracielaleon4543 3 года назад

    Very useful information, and the place you found is amazing,what a view

  • @GwenDeeful
    @GwenDeeful 3 года назад

    Thank you for sharing your budget. Happy Travels and stay Safe.

  • @lewisvogel466
    @lewisvogel466 3 года назад

    I've been a nomad since July 31st, 2020, and my budget is similar to yours. Factoring in vehicle maintenance costs was such a headache until I got approved for a Discover credit card two months ago. My goal is to save 500 dollars a month since I no longer pay rent. Before I got the credit card, I had to reducemy savings to pay for maintenance. Now I use the credit card and never have to tap into savings. When I pay off the card, I put less in savings that month which is better than reducing my savings. In December, I put together a maintenance schedule for 2021 and how much everything will cost and when. On July 30th, I had no money in savings. Today, January 9th, I have 2,500 in savings, and that credit card, ironically, made a big difference. I live in a truck instead of a van, and I'm loving this life. Spent the night in a snow storm at Wal Mart in Abilene, Texas, a few nights ago, and I had no trouble staying warm thanks to a 42 dollar two-burner Coleman Stove. Currently 34 degrees where I am now and still staying warm. I'm originally from Albuquerque and can't wait to get back to New Mexico. But right now I would have to quarantine for 10 days before entering the state. Total bummer.

  • @cherryray2170
    @cherryray2170 3 года назад

    Good job ...... thanks for all your info.... Planning for this lifestyle to happen soon ..... beautiful country!

  • @jennym.9099
    @jennym.9099 3 года назад +1

    What a beautiful place to be! I would love to be able to this for 6 months out of the year in my suv.

  • @mslinstrot4643
    @mslinstrot4643 3 года назад

    You doing awesome!! Congratulations 👏👏👏👏👏

  • @lydialangfordjoiner765
    @lydialangfordjoiner765 3 года назад +1

    A truly beautiful place for $7 per night! I’m glad you could stay there. Thank you for your finance discussion. Making money to support yourself would be a great topic for a future video. I’m looking forward to it.

  • @annettepuskarich1
    @annettepuskarich1 3 года назад

    Love your channel for its authenticity, sincerity, and gratitude. Happy trails and thanks for sharing!

  • @Cloudymoon916
    @Cloudymoon916 3 года назад

    I really like the way you look at life. You give good information and advice. Thanks for sharing.
    And I would love for you to make a video of how you make money on the road.
    Safe travels!

  • @stacyberry6097
    @stacyberry6097 3 года назад

    Love when you talk numbers budget. I know $ can go up and down but a general $ is go helpful. Thanks

  • @maryjanespangler7488
    @maryjanespangler7488 2 года назад

    Even though this was over a year ago, I found it very helpful. Thank you!

  • @kingskidspoodles1393
    @kingskidspoodles1393 3 года назад +1

    If your still in NM. Look at Silver City nm. There are Hot Springs north of there.

  • @MamaBearPrepper
    @MamaBearPrepper 3 года назад

    That is a beautiful place. That really isn't bad when you think about you would have to be paying rent somewhere. I love this. It's my dream to do this one day and take a all summer or Fall time road trip. New subscriber here.

  • @TheChristopherBlake1
    @TheChristopherBlake1 3 года назад

    GURL, ur doing awesone ! Don't give up ur coffee, maybe cut back on the soda. I'm sooooo proud of u !
    We love ur realness, you can't Grub Hub that shit was hilarious.
    When I travel I use coach surfing .
    When this Pandemic shit is over that might help some .
    Again, U ROCK, keep up the awesome clips & journey .
    Huge HUGS 🤗
    Blake in Kern County CA by the
    Mojave Desert

  • @amyfollmer1412
    @amyfollmer1412 3 года назад

    You are inspiring. I enjoy your videos. Help me out. Wow the mountains.

  • @lodiwish
    @lodiwish 3 года назад

    I spend at least 100$ between showers and laundry too. Your so right about how this lifestyle can cost less or more. I'm in the less lane. Unfortunately I've had mini van repairs kicking my financial butt. Maybe I'll do a few videos on how this can be done for those of us on a super tight budget. I've been doing this over two years and haven't put up videos about van life. Also id like to watch a video on making money while on the road. I only have 14 followers on my youtube so maybe I need to get that number up, lol.
    PS, I'm in Mississippi now.

  • @anitabedella9708
    @anitabedella9708 3 года назад +1

    Nice video...I absolutely love New Mexico! I'v heard you either love N.M. or hate it...not sure if that's true but for me I fell in love with it immediately! Stay safe.

  • @susanaguilera1
    @susanaguilera1 3 года назад

    Just found ur channel and I love all your videos. Thank you 😊

  • @jenniferrose7380
    @jenniferrose7380 3 года назад

    Happy & safe travels
    Hey Gorg! Spectacular view. Follow your dreams. Nature in its self is so priceless. Take care

  • @huskylovinmom9379
    @huskylovinmom9379 3 года назад

    I live in south Alabama but wish I lived in the Smokey Mountains. I admire your tenacity to get out, alone, and just roam the United States. I'd be lonely myself & would want people around me pretty often. Love Joey.

  • @shotsandtacos604
    @shotsandtacos604 3 года назад

    Would love to see a full tour of ur minivan😍✨

  • @a.mstree
    @a.mstree 3 года назад

    I’ve been with you from the beginning... your videos are really great! Thanks for sharing this very personal info... It helps put the budget in perspective! Stay safe ✌🏼💚

  • @Cuernavacachica02
    @Cuernavacachica02 3 года назад

    I found a small ceramic heater that you can run with your jackets when the cold gets too much. :)

  • @bostonterriermomakasandy9722
    @bostonterriermomakasandy9722 3 года назад +6

    Looks like a beautiful spot Chantel. Your expenses seem in line with the lifestyle you have chosen. Quite frankly it is pretty good for a person your age and socioeconomic status. While van life might not be for everyone it certainly appears to be working great for you and really that’s all that matters. Enjoy your travels. Hugs to you & Joey.

    • @zariballard
      @zariballard 3 года назад +2

      Boston Terrier Mom In-line with her "socioeconomic" status? What are u referring to exactly? She is a free bird, not enslaved to ANY socioeconomic ANYTHING. She is self-sufficient, answers to no one, travels everyday to new and beautiful places, enjoys the company of a little loyal dog...what could possibly be better? According to recent stats, millions are fascinated by and planning for the same type of free life before they take it all away with ridiculous restriction nonsense. I'll take her "status" anytime.

  • @aprilvivas8862
    @aprilvivas8862 3 года назад +1

    I really enjoy following your adventures. It’s awesome how inexpensively you live each month!! Would love to learn how you make money on the road. You and Joey stay safe !!

  • @lisagoldberg6497
    @lisagoldberg6497 3 года назад

    Right after I asked about how you make a living I found your video on how you make a living LOL! Thank you

  • @bboice08
    @bboice08 3 года назад

    Thank you Chantel. Your information is timely and very very helpful for future traveling ideas, trips, and tips! Now, what is your trajectory like? Do you have money for your retirement saved? I am 61 so I will ask all questions!! lol What are your plans here? Will you inherit money at a certain age? Do you plan on settling down at some point or not at all!!? Chantel, what do you carry for a weapon in case of emergency and can you enact a scene for us (should danger come upon you) where you would think through a situation. It would be helpful for me to understand better how you would protect yourself OR how you do protect yourself ongoing. And lastly what was your scariest moment in van life. You average monthly expenditures are very impressive! Great start!! Love to hear from you!! Barb/Sacramento

  • @vayvonte7052
    @vayvonte7052 3 года назад

    love your videos I have the same van in blue, and lots of these expenses are eliminated for me lucky like oil change because im my own mechanic. But thanks can't wait to start van camping across the U.S!

  • @arlenewesley3583
    @arlenewesley3583 3 года назад

    Thanks for breaking your expenses down.. I don't see many travelers who have done a video like this..!!! 🧡.."You can't grub hub s**t" 🤣😂.. love your personality..I'm new to your channel and just subscribed.. looking forward to seeing more content from you!

  • @houseofburbs9627
    @houseofburbs9627 3 года назад

    I think when you are on the road getting a coffee, soda and souvenirs is totally worth it. I think you are doing great! Thank you for sharing your journey with all of us. With covid we are not really camping much like we had been but when I start traveling again I will get you some stickers on our travels too. ;)

  • @lisagardner9798
    @lisagardner9798 3 года назад +1

    Sure hope I can do this one day! Thank you so much for sharing. Would love to hear how you support yourself in the road.

  • @makalapuamegs1056
    @makalapuamegs1056 3 года назад

    Though I probably don’t get the same gas mileage your expenses are probably going to be the same as I plan on boondocking more than campgrounds and so I was pleasantly surprised that it will be doable on my social security. Loved that spot. Laughed that guys restrooms are cleaner.