Living in a Van

[waveform]

Perhaps my destiny is not a motivational speaker but Im thinking of living in a van. Traveling has always been something that drives me. Meeting people, places, new stuff. I also want time to play guitar, heading south.

It just seems the world has gotten so freaking nut job crazy the most sense is to live in the wild. Im less afraid of bears then humans. I was thinking of camping and looking for work and a place to live. Maybe live out of the van for a few months see how it is. This way its just the important stuff, music, nature, people. Im a little afraid of the living in a van and homeless stigma.

[Acousticado]

In a way, what you’re thinking of doing is a very “romantic”, ‘60s-‘70s way or living. Don’t know your age, but early 20s seems to be the age where one can endulge in that lifestyle. I did that back in the day...the spring, summer, fall of ‘79 to vent my youth before getting into my career. Whether or not it is practical or reasonable these days, who knows. If that’s what you want to do and can deal with the lifestyle, then go for it.

My brother in law is approaching 60 and still dreams of this exact lifestyle. He has an old van and wants to convert it to a camper. He’s making small progresses. He sends me videos of the innovative things folks do with vans to live the lifestyle. I’m not sure what my sister thinks about it. She sure wouldn’t do it.

I wish you well!

[Jusca]

Originally Posted by waveform

Perhaps my destiny is not a motivational speaker but Im thinking of living in a van. Traveling has always been something that drives me. Meeting people, places, new stuff. I also want time to play guitar, heading south.

It just seems the world has gotten so freaking nut job crazy the most sense is to live in the wild. Im less afraid of bears then humans. I was thinking of camping and looking for work and a place to live. Maybe live out of the van for a few months see how it is. This way its just the important stuff, music, nature, people. Im a little afraid of the living in a van and homeless stigma.

People will always have an opinion. Don't let it stop you from trying something you're interested in.

[marty bradbury]

Oh my, I have thought of that for quite a while. I think its funny that in earlier years we would do it in a heartbeat without having all the access we have now on the "information highway", and now we hold back? Interesting. If you do I would love to hear of your travels.

[DHart]

Living a mobile lifestyle can be fantastic. Of course there are associated complications and difficulties, but if a mobile lifestyle appeals to you, whether it be in a van, a small trailer, a 5th wheel, a small or large motorhome.... you will be “living the life” and it can be a wonderful experience.

I’m retired now and frequently enjoy the RV lifestyle. I’m very blessed to be able to RV in style, but believe that whatever form of mobile living one has (even just a van!), one still experiences much the same sense of mobile adventure and freedom from being nailed down.

Don’t give even a thought to what others may think of your new lifestyle... it is yours to enjoy, experience, and savor and no one else’s opinion means a thing! You will meet people who can relate to your quest and share your enthusiasm for separating from conventional living and going “mobile”.

I say if you want to do it - go for it!

Yes, the world has gotten freakin’ nut job crazy. And whatever form of escape from it that works for you is smart.

Added to say, I wouldn’t travel without firearms.

[tippy5]

There are utube van people that show how to live in a small place. There are risks pluses and minuses. I lived in my van-solo-one 2 month run at 20 years old. it was fun then because at that age you could crash on couches and grab some food from your sisters house visit, etc... though I do remember being so lonely one day in some beautiful city where I knew no one.

With the net you could meet other travelers and perhaps caravan for a weekend? I do recommend it for a sense of independence especially if you have some income or savings to use. There are thousands of folks in CA that live in their cars. 2 bedroom apts are 2K a month. I once had plans to get a 6 month traveling visa and buy a kombie and live around that great country. Sell it before your return trip. They had that formula in a 70's magazine article that I read.

I would be aware of homeless camps there is huge crime there. You can make it adventurous and positive or the road can cost more than a room and a job lifestyle either emotionally and/or practically.

[Cabarone]

Originally Posted by Jusca

People will always have an opinion. Don't let it stop you from trying something you're interested in.

This...and read "Travels With Charlie" by John Steinbeck while putting the plan together...

[Don Lampson]

Originally Posted by waveform

Perhaps my destiny is not a motivational speaker but Im thinking of living in a van. Traveling has always been something that drives me. Meeting people, places, new stuff. I also want time to play guitar, heading south.

It just seems the world has gotten so freaking nut job crazy the most sense is to live in the wild. Im less afraid of bears then humans. I was thinking of camping and looking for work and a place to live. Maybe live out of the van for a few months see how it is. This way its just the important stuff, music, nature, people. Im a little afraid of the living in a van and homeless stigma.

I expect you'll find that seeking decent paying work while living in a van, even more difficult than trying to be a motivational speaker? How do you plan to support yourself while living out on the road in your van?

Don

[amyFB]

Sanitary arrangements are where I think the biggest challenges lie in your plan.

They are not insurmountable , and no matter the vehicle you choose , you will likely always wish for a more traditional “comfort station” .

Employers may consider your mobile address as an undesireable trait that could suggest short term relationships.

Best of luck! Send pictures!

[RP]

Cool idea. Go for it. Check this out....http://vandwellers.org/reviews/vanabode.htm

[Mooh]

I like the idea a lot and it's one I've been considering. The only aspect of this I have trouble with is revenue, as in how to pay for gas, insurance, vehicle maintenance, food, etc.

[Gasworker]

Sounds like you're thinking this through. Don't test your fear theory on real bears it likely won't work out the way you imagine. Let us know how make out.

[RedJoker]

Don't do it. You can't keep nearly as many guitars in a van as you can in a McMansion.

[chitz]

Get a nice van and post up pics!

[Parlorman]

The New Yorker had an interesting article about van living bak in April. Seems like you might be joining a movement. I say go for it.

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2...media-movement