The Money Mustache Community
General Discussion => Welcome and General Discussion => Topic started by: APowers on December 28, 2014, 05:53:46 PM
-
I not only could, it's part of our FIRE plan to live in a Dodge/Mercedes Sprinter Van -- 25mpg diesel, 120 or so square feet. We'll sell the house when the kids head off to college and live sporadically in our beach house rental property when it's not occupied. (It rents on a weekly basis mostly between May and October).
I saw this and think it needs its own thread. This is pretty much exactly what our FIRE plan is-- live in a Sprinter van and road-trip/sightsee the US and visit all our scattered internet friends.
So many questions.
Do you have the van already?
Do you have any more concrete plans than a general "we're gonna get a van and adventure"?
What model van are you planning?
How do you plan to outfit your van?
-
Matt Foley could give you plenty of tips.
-
If you are getting a Sprinter van, then you might want to make sure you have a good mechanic. That thing was designed by Daimler and we all know what means in terms of reliability.
-
I swear I found this here originally, but looked it up again for this question.
http://www.stealthsprinter.com/
Check out these guys. First off, amazing Sprinter conversion with all the comforts of home. Secondly, though, they totally lived the mustachian ideal IMO! They converted the van and spent over a year traveling the length and breadth of Australia. They've settled back into a house but even though I don't think this is for me, I can't help but be jealous of the entire experience.
-
One of my dreams, as well. Alas, I don't have a beach house.
-
I swear I found this here originally, but looked it up again for this question.
http://www.stealthsprinter.com/
Check out these guys. First off, amazing Sprinter conversion with all the comforts of home. Secondly, though, they totally lived the mustachian ideal IMO! They converted the van and spent over a year traveling the length and breadth of Australia. They've settled back into a house but even though I don't think this is for me, I can't help but be jealous of the entire experience.
Read through their van build and that electric bed hoist really frees up space. Awesome design and finish!
-
I not only could, it's part of our FIRE plan to live in a Dodge/Mercedes Sprinter Van -- 25mpg diesel, 120 or so square feet. We'll sell the house when the kids head off to college and live sporadically in our beach house rental property when it's not occupied. (It rents on a weekly basis mostly between May and October).
I saw this and think it needs its own thread. This is pretty much exactly what our FIRE plan is-- live in a Sprinter van and road-trip/sightsee the US and visit all our scattered internet friends.
So many questions.
Do you have the van already?
Do you have any more concrete plans than a general "we're gonna get a van and adventure"?
What model van are you planning?
How do you plan to outfit your van?
Seems like a short term plan at best. How long can someone live on the road before it becomes old? How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing?
Consider watching the movie "Lost in America" before you make any big decisions.
-
Seems like a short term plan at best. How long can someone live on the road before it becomes old? How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing?
Consider watching the movie "Lost in America" before you make any big decisions.
Wow, Skyhigh. You've been acused of being a troll elsewhere on the forum. I was comfortable giving you the benefit of the doubt, but now I'm far less sure.
-
Seems like a short term plan at best. How long can someone live on the road before it becomes old? How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing?
Consider watching the movie "Lost in America" before you make any big decisions.
Wow, Skyhigh. You've been acused of being a troll elsewhere on the forum. I was comfortable giving you the benefit of the doubt, but now I'm far less sure.
I have spent my life studying the concept of financial independence with the goal of retiring early. I am also a pragmatist. As a result it seems unlikely that living in a van is a realistic long term retirement plan. In addition I also have had the experience of living in my truck for most of a year and spent much of my 20's driving around the nation searching for work, showering in truck stops, camping, and visiting friends as a way of getting off the road for brief stretches. It was not all that much fun. I can't imagine that the charm will last all that long before four walls and staying put again seems like heaven.
Living in a van is a romantic idea but in reality is not a practical long term plan. I have a client who sold his house last spring and bought a coach RV with the plan to spend the winters in AZ and the rest of the year wherever they want. It lasted only a few months. They are re-buying a house just down the street from the grand kids. They are lucky that they have resources to make those mistakes without too much hardship to their plan. Imagine placing all your chips on a dodge sprinter only to discover a few weeks in how cramped, cold, and un-fun it is.
-
I've always enjoyed the idea of mobile living, whether that be a modified Sprinter van, airstream or tiny home on wheels. I think all methods are possible and can be done comfortably in the long term. Before embarking on any such path it is always good to test the idea.
A couple years back I convinced my father to take a trip with me to look at a Tumbleweed Tiny house, Fencl I believe. It was beautiful! However, it wasn't right for me at the time.
I still spend too much time looking up vandwellers, tiny home folk and american nomad. I love to read everyone's stories! I hope to try it out mobile living someday. Power to those that have already embarked on their journey! :-D
When I achieve FI I will start looking into it more seriously. Most likely I will buy a very cheap RV and tour around for a summer, see how it goes. :-)
-
I've always enjoyed the idea of mobile living, whether that be a modified Sprinter van, airstream or tiny home on wheels. I think all methods are possible and can be done comfortably in the long term. Before embarking on any such path it is always good to test the idea.
A couple years back I convinced my father to take a trip with me to look at a Tumbleweed Tiny house, Fencl I believe. It was beautiful! However, it wasn't right for me at the time.
I still spend too much time looking up vandwellers, tiny home folk and american nomad. I love to read everyone's stories! I hope to try it out mobile living someday. Power to those that have already embarked on their journey! :-D
When I achieve FI I will start looking into it more seriously. Most likely I will buy a very cheap RV and tour around for a summer, see how it goes. :-)
Just want you to know you are not alone, Frugal_Red. I have donated hours of my time to the same causes. In fact, DH had an RV when I met him. I joke that it was the tipping point. So far, we've only used it once, but we had a blast. We look forward to using it (or its successor) extensively when he retires.
I know this is enabling, but have you checked out Hitch Itch? Talk about stories. Hundreds of them, conveniently linked in one place. You may or may not thank me.
-
I know this is enabling, but have you checked out Hitch Itch? Talk about stories. Hundreds of them, conveniently linked in one place. You may or may not thank me.
Oh my!! A new source of reading material!! -Thanks!! :-D
-
Seems like a short term plan at best. How long can someone live on the road before it becomes old? How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing?
Consider watching the movie "Lost in America" before you make any big decisions.
Wow, Skyhigh. You've been acused of being a troll elsewhere on the forum. I was comfortable giving you the benefit of the doubt, but now I'm far less sure.
I have spent my life studying the concept of financial independence with the goal of retiring early. I am also a pragmatist. As a result it seems unlikely that living in a van is a realistic long term retirement plan. In addition I also have had the experience of living in my truck for most of a year and spent much of my 20's driving around the nation searching for work, showering in truck stops, camping, and visiting friends as a way of getting off the road for brief stretches. It was not all that much fun. I can't imagine that the charm will last all that long before four walls and staying put again seems like heaven.
Living in a van is a romantic idea but in reality is not a practical long term plan. I have a client who sold his house last spring and bought a coach RV with the plan to spend the winters in AZ and the rest of the year wherever they want. It lasted only a few months. They are re-buying a house just down the street from the grand kids. They are lucky that they have resources to make those mistakes without too much hardship to their plan. Imagine placing all your chips on a dodge sprinter only to discover a few weeks in how cramped, cold, and un-fun it is.
To be true, living/roadtripping in a van is not our TOTAL AND LONG TERM plan for FIRE; rather, it is the plan for once we hit FIRE and want to see more of the country than just the Pacific NW. But it is definitely in the plans. Sorry if I was unclear there.
I'm pretty sure there are quite a few folks for whom living on the road isn't tiresome. We may or may not be them. We'll see-- we're not there yet.
Also, we're planning on using real estate (rentals) as a primary FI investment vehicle, so if at some point we decide we don't want to tour the country anymore, we will have the option of resuming residence in one of our houses. I don't see "oops, we can't stand living in a van" as an insurmountable mistake. At no point will all our chips be on "live in a van". We'll have a back-up plan, you can be sure.
How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing? -- I've asked this question before, and there doesn't seem to be a firm answer.
-
i so wanted a sprinter. the girlfriend nixed the idea when she figured i would use it to run away. now i've set my sights much lower to a nice touring bike. not the same though. good luck!
-
Seems like a short term plan at best. How long can someone live on the road before it becomes old? How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing?
Consider watching the movie "Lost in America" before you make any big decisions.
Wow, Skyhigh. You've been acused of being a troll elsewhere on the forum. I was comfortable giving you the benefit of the doubt, but now I'm far less sure.
I have spent my life studying the concept of financial independence with the goal of retiring early. I am also a pragmatist. As a result it seems unlikely that living in a van is a realistic long term retirement plan. In addition I also have had the experience of living in my truck for most of a year and spent much of my 20's driving around the nation searching for work, showering in truck stops, camping, and visiting friends as a way of getting off the road for brief stretches. It was not all that much fun. I can't imagine that the charm will last all that long before four walls and staying put again seems like heaven.
Living in a van is a romantic idea but in reality is not a practical long term plan. I have a client who sold his house last spring and bought a coach RV with the plan to spend the winters in AZ and the rest of the year wherever they want. It lasted only a few months. They are re-buying a house just down the street from the grand kids. They are lucky that they have resources to make those mistakes without too much hardship to their plan. Imagine placing all your chips on a dodge sprinter only to discover a few weeks in how cramped, cold, and un-fun it is.
To be true, living/roadtripping in a van is not our TOTAL AND LONG TERM plan for FIRE; rather, it is the plan for once we hit FIRE and want to see more of the country than just the Pacific NW. But it is definitely in the plans. Sorry if I was unclear there.
I'm pretty sure there are quite a few folks for whom living on the road isn't tiresome. We may or may not be them. We'll see-- we're not there yet.
Also, we're planning on using real estate (rentals) as a primary FI investment vehicle, so if at some point we decide we don't want to tour the country anymore, we will have the option of resuming residence in one of our houses. I don't see "oops, we can't stand living in a van" as an insurmountable mistake. At no point will all our chips be on "live in a van". We'll have a back-up plan, you can be sure.
How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing? -- I've asked this question before, and there doesn't seem to be a firm answer.
I have found that doing more to help than expected as a guest goes a long way to extending your stay. Mow the lawn, do all the dishes, cook meals, clean the house, and your host may not ever want you to leave.
-
Me personally, I think it's a great idea, although my preferred situation would be a stealth setup. In fact, I've even thought about stealth full-timing in the city prior to "retirement" in order to save money by not having a stick and brick house. I had the Sprinter bug before ever finding MMM. My fiance thinks I'm nuts though...
For me the key benefit of a stealth setup is being able to park in random parking spots and not have to pay lot fees, etc. The downside is that 95% of the Sprinter RVs out there aren't designed with stealth in mind and it would pretty much require a custom build.
I've even considered quite a few key requirements:
- No propane (diesel stove and heater connected to vehicle fuel tank, no microwave, 12v fridge, etc.)
- Robust solar system, no generator ("jackdanmayer" and "handybobsolar" are both excellent resources)
- Composting toilet to eliminate blackwater system
- No hookups visible from outside
- Space for bike storage inside
- WiFiRanger system for internet connectivity
The major downside to this idea is the unavoidable fact that we'd be buying a depreciating asset instead of an (usually) appreciating asset in real estate. If your retirement nest egg is big enough to accommodate replacing the vehicle every 10 years or so then it can work well.
-
I pondered a roaming retirement a few yrs ago - mostly as an ongoing motivation.
The Sprinter wasn't around then, and choices were very limited.
The Sprinter has a low-cost cousin; the Ram ProMaster. I much prefer gas over diesel too.
They are so popular that they're getting competition next year; the Ford Transit.
Cell phones and WiFi weren't around then either, which both greatly improve the potential.
For long term (ie constant) live-in, I think you pretty much have to use a trailer. I'd also want a moped or a scooter, with a basket or two.
One variation option to this is to do house sitting. It'd be so easy now with smart cell phones. Stay somewhere with heat, A/C, laundry, etc. for a few weeks, then roam around until it's time to head to the next house. Either build a select clientele of repeat business or establish a good reputation and free-lance.
-
I not only could, it's part of our FIRE plan to live in a Dodge/Mercedes Sprinter Van -- 25mpg diesel, 120 or so square feet. We'll sell the house when the kids head off to college and live sporadically in our beach house rental property when it's not occupied. (It rents on a weekly basis mostly between May and October).
I saw this and think it needs its own thread. This is pretty much exactly what our FIRE plan is-- live in a Sprinter van and road-trip/sightsee the US and visit all our scattered internet friends.
So many questions.
Do you have the van already?
Do you have any more concrete plans than a general "we're gonna get a van and adventure"?
What model van are you planning?
How do you plan to outfit your van?
you might enjoy this blog. http://themorningfresh.com
girl did exactly what you want for 1 year.
-
For those looking for information:
BOOKS:
Vanabode - Jason Odom -- (it is 100% a how-to book, and it has a VERY MMM/ERE slant)
The VanDweller's Guide - Romana Starfield (similar to the Vanabode book, with some more technical details on setting up a solar system and plumbing, but not as good overall)
Any Road will take you there - David Berner (haven't read it yet)
How to Live in a Car, Van, or.... - Robert Wells (Haven't read it yet)
Turning a cargo van into a road trip adventure vehicle - Roger Steen (haven't read it yet)
Wide-Eyed Wanderers - Richard Ligato (Ego from the forum) - This is a travel book, not much how-to
Drive Nacho Drive - Brad Van Orden - another travel book mainly
Walden on Wheels - Ken Ilgunas - Not much about how-to, more of a biography of his life up to van-living
BLOGS - the ones I read the most:
http://63mph.com/
http://www.tosimplify.net/
http://www.arestlesstransplant.com/
http://wheresmyofficenow.com/
BLOGS - others from my feed. Many I haven't read yet:
http://campervanculture.com/
http://www.drivenachodrive.com/
http://www.gonewiththewynns.com/
http://mobilecodgers.blogspot.com/
http://ouropenroad.com/
http://www.frugal-rv-travel.com/rv-blog.html
http://wheretheheartisusa.blogspot.com/
http://gypseajourneys.blogspot.com/
http://happynomadgirl.org/
http://johnnyvagabond.com/
http://www.ruinedadventures.com/
http://www.stealthvandweller.com/
http://tortugaplata.com/
http://www.vantramps.com/
http://www.wanderwith.me/
YOUTUBE CHANNELS - ones I watch the most:
https://www.youtube.com/user/WheresMyOfficeNow
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq4g9QUsCrCgPgG_fKEiHrQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV7BvFPyD5Lixoo8yMRiLA
YOUTUBE CHANNELS - Others:
https://www.youtube.com/user/kelseyjoyy
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiyiTqpss-ihtLHz-juFxIQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwc-4z3oQd7SNM2r_WFzrSQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1RNJS2MMyN1DkQNZAdMKRQ (Conversion videos)
https://www.youtube.com/user/werkbook/videos
https://www.youtube.com/user/RubberTrampsReviews/videos
https://www.youtube.com/user/westfaliawanderings/videos
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVgr4nckG_V0f0QM-byzI5Q/videos
-
This thread is relevant to my interests!
I'm about 2 weeks away from buying a tiny little Ford Transit Connect (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeBm4c6FcuQ) to build out and move into at some point. Not sure yet whether I will abandon the apartment before or after FI. At the very least, once I'm out of the workforce I'll be taking a year or two to visit all of the US that I haven't seen and find a place to settle down.
List of amenities I have planned so far for those interested:
24"x72" bed, expandable to 48"
table and seating for 4
hardwood floors
2-burner built-in propane stove or 1-burner portable
mini sink with pump faucet, 3 gal. fresh water supply
disco ball
way more storage than that dude in the video
portable chemical toilet in case of emergency
wood (or, more accurately, charcoal) heater
hitch rack for bikes, and possible space for one bike inside when bed is not fully deployed
I've been waffling on committing to this for four years now, so I'm excited!
-
C40 - I'd add Bumfuzzle to your blog list. They initially started as cruisers (sailboat), but switched to a VW, then at the start of 2014 restored a Travco.
Russ - Granted, I've never seen the inside of a Transit Connect, but I'm surprised you can fit so much in there!
-
This thread is relevant to my interests!
I'm about 2 weeks away from buying a tiny little Ford Transit Connect (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeBm4c6FcuQ) to build out and move into at some point. Not sure yet whether I will abandon the apartment before or after FI. At the very least, once I'm out of the workforce I'll be taking a year or two to visit all of the US that I haven't seen and find a place to settle down.
List of amenities I have planned so far for those interested:
24"x72" bed, expandable to 48"
table and seating for 4
hardwood floors
2-burner built-in propane stove or 1-burner portable
mini sink with pump faucet, 3 gal. fresh water supply
disco ball
way more storage than that dude in the video
portable chemical toilet in case of emergency
wood (or, more accurately, charcoal) heater
hitch rack for bikes, and possible space for one bike inside when bed is not fully deployed
I've been waffling on committing to this for four years now, so I'm excited!
Wow, that would be TINY to live in full time! IMO converting the bed every day, cooking, basic household stuff would get tedious quick. Note that the guy in the video is NOT a fulltimer!
I've been eyeing the fullsize Transit due to the extra roof height above the Sprinter (I'm 6'4" which is the exact interior dimension of the Sprinter before any mods!)
-
This is the set up that I fantasize about.
A Tundra with a Four Wheel camper.
And I would need a bike rack also.
-
Ninety Four - have you seen Roland of Gilead's rig? That's a really neat setup, though it is quite a bit bigger than what you pictured.
-
Ninety Four - have you seen Roland of Gilead's rig? That's a really neat setup, though it is quite a bit bigger than what you pictured.
I'm not sure that I have seen his rig.
Mine would just be for one person. Plus, I still want the ability to get into the backcountry. My understanding is that as one's truck/camper gets larger, the ability to navigate the 4WD roads (at least where I live and wish to hike/camp) decreases.
-
We are still constructing the garage/workshop on our camper (it will have a built in work bench, room for two motorcycles, and a cnc mill/lathe). We plan to live in it full time so I hope the naysayers who think this is not possible are wrong :-)
I would consider building a true off road 4x4 camper in the future but would simplify in some areas. I would ditch all water and propane systems. I would use a cassette toilet as we are now and I would use the 7 gallon square water containers like you can buy at Cabellas for about $14 each. I would still have a lot of solar (we have 1100 watts now) and a decent Lithium Iron battery bank. I would have to figure out some way of carrying two dual sport motorcycles as we can't live without these.
I am not sure about full timing in a small 4x4. We like to build stuff and I am not sure you could fit everything into a sprinter size vehicle. Our camper/garage fit on a truck with a overall length of 25 feet, which is amazingly small to contain a queen size bed (always available), 9.1cuft fridge, 60 inch recliner leather sofa, bathroom with Thetford cassette toilet (very popular in Europe), 3 burner stove with oven, microwave, 200 cubic feet of cabinet and under truck storage, plus a 8 foot wide by 10 foot enclosed garage with built in shelves, workbench, ramp door which locks in place to make a 7 foot x 8 foot porch. Oh, and storage on the roof of the garage pod for up to 4 kayaks or canoes.
-
All,
Thanks for the info! C40- thanks for all the links!
I'm a recent lurker- and am not sure how mustachian I am (I am a cheap B#$@st$R#d--- That counts, right???). :)
Anyway- I'm contemplating full time rv-ing by converting a new dodge promaster van(the $30-$35,000 purchase price is giving me sticker shock, though)... I'm 6'6"- so I can't stand up 100% in the promaster---- I heard the tallest Ford Transit will work, but haven't test driven one yet... Still researching...
- I too think about touring 100% for a few months at a time. Then head back to "base camp" where ever that may be. I have a couple rental properties, so that will help with income... I have one of those well paid corporate jobs that is sucking my soul a little more each day... Touring (even short term) should fix what ails me...
Anyway- for those looking into this using a sprinter van--- 2015 supposedly will bring either an AWD or 4X4 Sprinter Van Model. (not for me, but maybe good info for others).
Dunno if I can post links-but there is a great forum for the dodge promaster. Its full of many delivery people--- many conversion people... Some both. All great posters, who give reasons for their point of view...
thanks,
Jimmy
-
I posted the original comment on FIRE in a Sprinter Van. Yes, we want to live (mostly) in a Sprinter Van. Our plan is to keep our rental property in VA that rents seasonally (May through October) and keep a 1 bedroom condo in Florida. We anticipate living out of the van 150-200 nights a year. If you're outdoorsy, endurance sports kind of folks like we are, it's particularly attractive.
Friends of ours run a terrrific blog: www.livingvandal.com. The blog www.sprinterlife.com also is good, though they recently ended a four-year excursion. Our livingvandal friends broke down the costs of their 2.5 month summer excursion (and gas has dropped considerably since then).
http://livingvandal.com/2014/11/18/a-budgetary-guide-to-a-nomadic-vanlife-summer/
Sprinter Vans provide the mobility and gas mileage (up to 25 mpg Diesel) of a minivan with the benefits of an RV without most of the hassles and expense. Look at www.outsidevan.com to see how these suckers can be tricked out, sleeping up to four comfortably. We're budgeting about $85,000 -- for the Mercedes Sprinter -- though that's if we buy new. We're shopping for used. Here in Florida I get a lot of crazy responses about my plan, usually from friends who have money-sucking boats that don't keep nearly the resale value while requiring much more upkeep.
-
This is the set up that I fantasize about.
A Tundra with a Four Wheel camper.
And I would need a bike rack also.
I picked one up this year so my wife and son will have somewhere to hide out on race trips. My other plan is to use it to vacation to places out west (Mountains, etc). Illinois is way too damn flat!
Sorry about the crappy pic, it was the night I picked it up!
-
I posted the original comment on FIRE in a Sprinter Van. Yes, we want to live (mostly) in a Sprinter Van. Our plan is to keep our rental property in VA that rents seasonally (May through October) and keep a 1 bedroom condo in Florida. We anticipate living out of the van 150-200 nights a year. If you're outdoorsy, endurance sports kind of folks like we are, it's particularly attractive.
Friends of ours run a terrrific blog: www.livingvandal.com. The blog www.sprinterlife.com also is good, though they recently ended a four-year excursion. Our livingvandal friends broke down the costs of their 2.5 month summer excursion (and gas has dropped considerably since then).
http://livingvandal.com/2014/11/18/a-budgetary-guide-to-a-nomadic-vanlife-summer/
Sprinter Vans provide the mobility and gas mileage (up to 25 mpg Diesel) of a minivan with the benefits of an RV without most of the hassles and expense. Look at www.outsidevan.com to see how these suckers can be tricked out, sleeping up to four comfortably. We're budgeting about $85,000 -- for the Mercedes Sprinter -- though that's if we buy new. We're shopping for used. Here in Florida I get a lot of crazy responses about my plan, usually from friends who have money-sucking boats that don't keep nearly the resale value while requiring much more upkeep.
Thanks for the links! I will definitely be perusing those blogs.
-
Jack and Jill Travel (http://jackandjilltravel.com/vanlife/) just bought a Sprinter Van to move their life into.
I am interested in doing this when DD graduates. Would like to do for at least a year to check out the US in depth.
-
My DH and I are FIRE and we full-time in an RV (a small class A). Right now we're in Imperial Dam LTVA on the CA/AZ border, boondocking in comfort due to our solar panels.
To all the doubters, let me tell you, go to any LTVA during the winter months in this area and you will see people full-time (or snowbird) in ALL KINDS OF SETUPS!! It's fabulous and inspiring to see. One of the best things about being out here is taking walks and "spying on the neighbors" as I like to call it, i.e. checking out everyone's setup. There are tiny truck campers, class B's, class C's, class A's, tiny trailers, toy haulers, huge fifth wheels, bus conversions (from short school bus to giant touring bus), even tenters.
We do a lot of boondocking, and at other times we travel more conventionally by staying in RV parks and state/county/city/national parks. It's kind of fun to do things differently when boondocking, and after a while conserving water like crazy becomes second nature. Let me tell you, if everyone in the country used as little water as DH and I (and this includes showers and dishes and all the normal things), we wouldn't have water water shortages anywhere.
It's the mindset, just like in anything else. Live in a truck camper because you need to and you resent it? You won't have a good time. Live in a truck camper because you are FIRE and want to see the continent? Awesome.
OP, if you have the desire, just do it. You know best what you can tolerate. Those Sprinter vans tend to have good resale value if you decide in a few years that you want something different. The only non-negotiable I would say is you should have at least one good solar panel on the roof. It makes life so much easier, and quieter because you hardly ever need to run the generator.
-
Danielle, very nice! Maybe my wife and I will see you on the road as we are FIRE and full-time RV sometime this spring/summer. It will be neat to see some of the different setups.
-
I want to see Slab City but I have heard it might not be the Utopia one might hope. I could be wrong as all I have is hearsay to go on.
-
The wife and I have talked about doing this soon.
www.sprinterlife.com is another blog of a traveling couple and baby living in a sprinter van, though they've actually just sold it for a larger RV
This is a good post on their van:
http://sprinterlife.com/our-home
(EDIT: I see one person mentioned it above, but leaving for the extra link with info about the van.)
-
I like the fuzzy accounting on the VANdal site:
"If you’re currently researching VANlife and trying to justify the expense, you may find this interesting: Since VANdal is a vehicle used for business, it can be depreciated 100% on a five-year schedule. If we sell VANdal in 5 years for 75% of our purchase price, which seems to be the historical trend for used Outside Vans, our cost of ownership after actual cash benefit from depreciation is ZERO."
If you depreciate something 100% then sell it for anything, you have to claim that money as a gain and pay tax on it. No free lunch here. Pay $60,000 for the sprinter, take a $60,000 deduction over five years then sell the sprinter for $40,000...you will owe tax on the $40k.
-
Mine would just be for one person. Plus, I still want the ability to get into the backcountry. My understanding is that as one's truck/camper gets larger, the ability to navigate the 4WD roads (at least where I live and wish to hike/camp) decreases.
This. As a resident of one of the Northern Rocky Mountain states who intends to primarily move around the Intermountain west and desert states, if you are single a solid truck with 4WD and a bed converted into sleeping quarters utilizing a tall cap or pop-up camper (sturdy) would be key to access. As a single guy even the Tacoma would fit the bill nicely and serve to provide backpackers and hiking enthusiasts access to some of the most amazing and pristine free wilderness areas this country has to offer. The truck cap/camper is hard to beat for the mobile life as far as utility and initial investment. I abandoned the Sprinter idea a few years ago for primarily two reasons. 1) Lack of access to rugged high country, 2)Limited service repair options in many rural places around the country.
My plan is to maintain my domicile in a tax free state, and seasonally live in modest but beautiful accommodations in Santa Fe. On track to put in my notice at 35 and maybe meet some of you out there.
-
Mine would just be for one person. Plus, I still want the ability to get into the backcountry. My understanding is that as one's truck/camper gets larger, the ability to navigate the 4WD roads (at least where I live and wish to hike/camp) decreases.
This. As a resident of one of the Northern Rocky Mountain states who intends to primarily move around the Intermountain west and desert states, if you are single a solid truck with 4WD and a bed converted into sleeping quarters utilizing a tall cap or pop-up camper (sturdy) would be key to access. As a single guy even the Tacoma would fit the bill nicely and serve to provide backpackers and hiking enthusiasts access to some of the most amazing and pristine free wilderness areas this country has to offer. The truck cap/camper is hard to beat for the mobile life as far as utility and initial investment. I abandoned the Sprinter idea a few years ago for primarily two reasons. 1) Lack of access to rugged high country, 2)Limited service repair options in many rural places around the country.
My plan is to maintain my domicile in a tax free state, and seasonally live in modest but beautiful accommodations in Santa Fe. On track to put in my notice at 35 and maybe meet some of you out there.
Nice to read your comment! Yep--a big rig just can't get to some of those remote locations on the 4WD roads. Now I have to say that I am kind of wimpy about some of the 4WD roads, especially as I am usually on my own, but I want to be able to access some prime camping spots that a Tacoma can get to, but a larger rig might not.
Good luck with your plans to quite your job at 35! Maybe I will see you in the La Platas!
-
Nice to read your comment! Yep--a big rig just can't get to some of those remote locations on the 4WD roads. Now I have to say that I am kind of wimpy about some of the 4WD roads, especially as I am usually on my own, but I want to be able to access some prime camping spots that a Tacoma can get to, but a larger rig might not.
Good luck with your plans to quite your job at 35! Maybe I will see you in the La Platas!
While the van is indeed ideal for those who plan to travel the entire country utilizing campgrounds where wilderness does not provide reasonable van accessible, the increased cost of ownership along with additional fees make this not ideal for those who consistently boondock and limits options.
See the problem for some of us is that we want a vehicle initially designed to handle the demands of travel off road, not to say that I would regularly utilize four wheel low to get to extremely questionable places. Having to be towed out of there would be anti-mustachian indeed! 4WD is for contingency (snow, ice, rock slides, washed out roads already crossed ect.) If one is using 4WD to get out as far as conceivably possible you are gambling with some pretty expensive issue resolution and unless you are highly skilled or have friends that can help (overland expedition stuff) you will get burned. It is not wimpy, it is an effective risk vs reward analysis. Anything access beyond this builds strength as you backpack and more than likely you will have the whole area to yourself anyway so it will not really matter.
The problem with many vans in general is the chassis was not designed robust enough to handle frequent off pavement travel and expensive repairs will certainly be a factor in addition to a generally higher initial entry cost. For the ones that are the later is still a very real issue. I am not willing to work an additional year or two to gain access to the ownership and maintenance costs of a sportmobile for example.
While I probably will spend much time in the rugged Wind Rivers, The general vicinity of the San Juans is indeed impressive and a favorite among the Colorado ranges...
-
I have not been to the Wind Rivers area. Looks awesome.
-
I have not been to the Wind Rivers area. Looks awesome.
Thanks for the encouragement on my freedom date. I am plowing ahead with a truly mind blowing savings rate. I am determined to not to fall prey to OMYS.
The Wind Rivers and surrounding area are one of the truly last wild and untamed regions in the lower 48. All the original large native predators and prey exist naturally in the greater surrounding ecosystem.
Hopefully more people will latch on to the mobile adventurous life. IMO life is too short to be confined to one place. Onward and Upward
-
Is it crowded at Slab city? It was a former army base or something, right? All that is left are numerous slab foundations spread out over the desert?
-
Personally it would be my version of Hell rather than utopia...I'm more of a backpacker/mountain biker type who parks the car/SUV at a "basecamp" campground for a few weeks (with all my little luxuries :-)!) and then bikes or hikes to more remote areas from there.
Completely agree with this; drugs, poverty, crime and general destitution in a desolate setting is not the early retirement I envision.
-
the chassis was not designed robust enough to handle frequent off pavement travel
I don't know what modifications they do to Sprinter vans in Madagascar (and elsewhere all over Africa, etc.) but there is often nothing but 30 year old models running loaded with 30 people on the roads over there. They seem to get much more mixed reception in the States. Granted, African mechanics are orders of magnitude cheaper, and shop time...(what shop?), but Sprinters are quite observably very rugged and perfectly suited to decades of use on what we qualify as "off pavement." With a bit of warranty-breaking welding and scarcity-induced ingenuity, I'm sure a proper mustachian could make an economical, rugged home of one of these. Granted, a kitted out Toyota Hiace would be far superior and even more efficient, but they don't sell them in the US.
-
I want to see Slab City but I have heard it might not be the Utopia one might hope. I could be wrong as all I have is hearsay to go on.
Personally it would be my version of Hell rather than utopia (overcrowded with all sorts of RVs crammed in together with a "townish" kind of atmosphere) but it sounds very interesting from some of the people I know who have stayed there for several months and one of these days I'll visit it (no RV so don't know if they allow tents or not). I'm more of a backpacker/mountain biker type who parks the car/SUV at a "basecamp" campground for a few weeks (with all my little luxuries :-)!) and then bikes or hikes to more remote areas from there.
Agreed. That's why I find the Sprinter Van so appealing as a mountain biker/SUP/hiking person. You can take the Sprinter van waaaay offroad and make it your own base camp far away from others.
-
I want to see Slab City but I have heard it might not be the Utopia one might hope. I could be wrong as all I have is hearsay to go on.
Personally it would be my version of Hell rather than utopia (overcrowded with all sorts of RVs crammed in together with a "townish" kind of atmosphere) but it sounds very interesting from some of the people I know who have stayed there for several months and one of these days I'll visit it (no RV so don't know if they allow tents or not). I'm more of a backpacker/mountain biker type who parks the car/SUV at a "basecamp" campground for a few weeks (with all my little luxuries :-)!) and then bikes or hikes to more remote areas from there.
Agreed. That's why I find the Sprinter Van so appealing as a mountain biker/SUP/hiking person. You can take the Sprinter van waaaay offroad and make it your own base camp far away from others.
Well, I didn't mean a long term stay as we also like our privacy and prefer wilderness camping. That being said, I do sometimes like to people watch and see how others have carved out a life on the road.
-
I love the Sprinter Van especially the interior space and would gladly own one and live in it if well graded dirt roads were the extent of my travel, but it is certainly no economical direct replacement for the clearance or durability of a Tacoma/Ram chassis for example when traveling off road. You virtually completely remove the built in contingency 4WD provides when off pavement. Modification can be done to anything to make it do anything of course though.
From my perspective a mid-sized factory capable truck with either a flippac or tall cap would be the most capable blend of access and provide the least modification and maintenance required depending on what you plan to do.
Also a gasser is looking like a far better option right now than a diesel anything in this regard...
-
Hmmm...I never thought of sleeping in my car in order to avoid hotel costs. I've thought of doing multi-day road trips to get somewhere instead of flying there, but the hotel costs always add a snag to the plan. I have slept in my car for some quick power-naps at work (don't tell anyone), but never thought of an overnight sleepover in my hatchback in order to drive cross country frugally. I guess I always thought this involved spending the night in a seedy roadside rest stop and I'm kind of paranoid about my safety. I can see doing this for a few nights until getting to my destination, or sprinkling a few car sleep days with cheap hotels as a way to save costs while driving somewhere.
I did some research and found that some people stay at Walmart parking lots, 24 hour fitness parking lots, or even at hospital parking lots. I think the hospital parking lots sound like the safest of all - if I can keep my small little hatchback as inconspicuous as possible.
Definitely get some great ideas on this forum...things I wouldn't have thought of myself.
-
Hmmm...I never thought of sleeping in my car in order to avoid hotel costs. I've thought of doing multi-day road trips to get somewhere instead of flying there, but the hotel costs always add a snag to the plan. I have slept in my car for some quick power-naps at work (don't tell anyone), but never thought of an overnight sleepover in my hatchback in order to drive cross country frugally. I guess I always thought this involved spending the night in a seedy roadside rest stop and I'm kind of paranoid about my safety. I can see doing this for a few nights until getting to my destination, or sprinkling a few car sleep days with cheap hotels as a way to save costs while driving somewhere.
I did some research and found that some people stay at Walmart parking lots, 24 hour fitness parking lots, or even at hospital parking lots. I think the hospital parking lots sound like the safest of all - if I can keep my small little hatchback as inconspicuous as possible.
Definitely get some great ideas on this forum...things I wouldn't have thought of myself.
Not sure how comfortable or even safe sleeping in a small compact car would be for longer than a night at a rest stop. Probably not too comfy or safe! But doing it in a van (or a bigger van like a Sprinter) could be like a hard tent. More protection from the elements then tent camping, and a bit more safety too both while tent camping or if you are sleeping at a rest stop too. For myself, unless it was just for a few hours late at night, I'd chose to pay for the budget motel rather than sleep at a rest stop all night in a car. I'd rather have the little extra comforts and could make up the cost by staying at a campground more often. Of course in a van/Sprinter van/truck with shell or RV that would be different. I have a mid sized SUV (Dodge Journey) where all 3 rows of seats fold down and there's plenty of room to sleep (hard tent-style!) but would be cramped amongst all my camping gear and bike so not comfortable but doable if I need to. Now staying at a regular campsite it's great. Can unload everything, set up a tent, etc... (and check out Glamping for fun luxury tent set ups) and just use the SUV to sleep in if weather is bad or bears are surrounding my tent :-)!
Well it's a 4 door hatchback. If the back seats go down, I can fit a bike with the front wheel removed. I thought I could put a sleeping bag in the back with a pillow and it might be comfortable. I could put my suitcase and skis on the two sides and sleep in the middle. I wouldn't do it if I was transporting a bike, but maybe to drive out west to Colorado for a ski trip for a month so that I can have a car with me. I'm not even sure if it would be cheaper than just flying there.
Oh well, worth a thought at least.
-
The sprinters seem to be really expensive, and a total pain to work on. For awhile they were the only modern high mpg van on the road. But...
This year Ford finally brought the full sized transit to the US though. I think you can pick a new one up somewhere in the mid-$30s and they have an array of height, wheelbase and engine options. Since the old econoline was such a workhorse, and transit's are pretty much ubiquitious in Europe. I have to imagine this van would be way cheaper/easier to find someone that could work on it in the middle of nowhere. Every town seems to have a Ford dealership. There's also tons of information on DIY conversions on European sites. There's a real cottage industry for converting vans into campers over there.
I'd really look hard at the transit before I bought a used Sprinter. I've read horror stories about people having to take them to Mercedes dealerships for any type of work, and that generally comes with inflated Mercedes prices.
-
This thread is relevant to my interests!
I'm about 2 weeks away from buying a tiny little Ford Transit Connect (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eeBm4c6FcuQ) to build out and move into at some point. Not sure yet whether I will abandon the apartment before or after FI. At the very least, once I'm out of the workforce I'll be taking a year or two to visit all of the US that I haven't seen and find a place to settle down.
List of amenities I have planned so far for those interested:
24"x72" bed, expandable to 48"
table and seating for 4
hardwood floors
2-burner built-in propane stove or 1-burner portable
mini sink with pump faucet, 3 gal. fresh water supply
disco ball
way more storage than that dude in the video
portable chemical toilet in case of emergency
wood (or, more accurately, charcoal) heater
hitch rack for bikes, and possible space for one bike inside when bed is not fully deployed
I've been waffling on committing to this for four years now, so I'm excited!
Wow, that would be TINY to live in full time! IMO converting the bed every day, cooking, basic household stuff would get tedious quick. Note that the guy in the video is NOT a fulltimer!
I've been eyeing the fullsize Transit due to the extra roof height above the Sprinter (I'm 6'4" which is the exact interior dimension of the Sprinter before any mods!)
6'x5' ain't bad, with head room to spare as long as you're sitting ;-) Bigger than some of the truck stuff that's being chatted about, at least, and plenty big enough for one dude if it's laid out well (like I said, the guy in the video wasted a LOT of space...). I plan on using the bed in the 24" widthway and only expanding for special occasions. Agreed it would be a pain to do every day. Of course I would be open to expanding to a bigger van if it had to permanently house two at some point down the road...
Going to look at one of these in Milwaukee this Saturday. Hope it's as good in person as it seems from the description!
-
I'm the original OP on this.
Last week I went to the world's largest RV show, annual event held here in Central FL. Acres and acres of clown RVs -- granite counters, etc. Sticker prices of $125K-plus.
Very few Sprinter Vans and those on display were tricked out like mini-RVs: more granite, leather everything, multiple flat screens. Sticker prices of $125K-plus.
The idea of an MMM van tricked out for functionality, living for weeks and months at a time, and sports (for us outdoorsy types) does not seem to be filled yet. Hmmmm. Possible business idea.
-
Here's the story of how my sister tricked out her Sprinter: http://hutchski.com/bumblebeast/
-
Lately, I have been seeing those Sprinter vans everywhere!
I've also had email correspondence with Matt about Donnie (http://instagram.com/63mph) (VW Vanagon) in snow.
He sent me some very reliable information about how to drive with those issues.
Could be something to consider.
I've also looked into VW T4s, but those can be pricey (used, of course). Although I found lower counter parts to run $30K.
-
Here's the story of how my sister tricked out her Sprinter: http://hutchski.com/bumblebeast/
That is awesome! Your sister rocks.
-
Lately, I have been seeing those Sprinter vans everywhere!
Me too! I never knew these things existed and now they are all around me. Creepy.
Well I live in South Florida so they are mostly used for shuttling tourists around. That's all I've seen so far...
-
The idea of an MMM van tricked out for functionality, living for weeks and months at a time, and sports (for us outdoorsy types) does not seem to be filled yet. Hmmmm. Possible business idea.
You can start a Sprinter van lease business for MMM forum posters. Or maybe someone fixes it up and then sells it along to another forum poster when they are done with it. Everyone adds a new little touch to it. We could call it the Sprinter Slut as it gets passed around from person to person. ;-)
Some of us may only want to use one for about a year or so to travel around the US and may not have a need for it after that.
-
I think I would go with a gas engine like the new full size 2015 Ford transit. (they used to be quite small but now are about the same size as a Sprinter).
Gas is $0.50 to $0.75 cheaper than diesel, doesn't require blue toilet water, and is much easier on the wallet to service.
The 3.5L V6 gives 300HP and 400 ft-lb of torque and gets 19mpg hwy.
-
I think I would go with a gas engine like the new full size 2015 Ford transit. (they used to be quite small but now are about the same size as a Sprinter).
Gas is $0.50 to $0.75 cheaper than diesel, doesn't require blue toilet water, and is much easier on the wallet to service.
The 3.5L V6 gives 300HP and 400 ft-lb of torque and gets 19mpg hwy.
You also have access to tons of parts for diy conversions if you buy from overseas. They've been converting those things over there for years and have come up with some really interesting products.
-
Friends of mine who run the excellent livingvandal.com blog posted this yesterday. I thought it was very mustachian.
http://livingvandal.com/2015/02/17/vanlife-must-be-nice/
-
Long time dreamer of a custom Sprinter (since the factory class B's are generally not ideal for real outdoor enthusiasts with gear and cost a ton).
I keep visiting the http://www.outsidevan.com site for ideas, but the price tag is still pretty steep and no AWD (although the word is that the Sprinter will come in an AWD option starting later in 2015!!!).
So for carrying bikes, skis, and dogs, with a decent place to sleep and AWD, I'm either looking at the truck with camper top discussed above, or a Toyota Sienna AWD with a teardrop camper (a la http://tinycamper.com), or truck with teardrop.
I really wish there were better options for AWD vans...
-
Ha! We had one of those back in the early 80's while I was growing up...until my dad thought he would pull it into our (standard height) garage...
It was pretty gutless but it did the job. Not so great for bikes and skis and dogs. And it might be tough to find one in good shape.
If not pulling a teardrop, I really want a van with a raised platform bed with enough room underneath for multiple bikes and skis... (and outside van has some examples that come pretty close).
-
Long time dreamer of a custom Sprinter (since the factory class B's are generally not ideal for real outdoor enthusiasts with gear and cost a ton).
I keep visiting the http://www.outsidevan.com site for ideas, but the price tag is still pretty steep and no AWD (although the word is that the Sprinter will come in an AWD option starting later in 2015!!!).
So for carrying bikes, skis, and dogs, with a decent place to sleep and AWD, I'm either looking at the truck with camper top discussed above, or a Toyota Sienna AWD with a teardrop camper (a la http://tinycamper.com), or truck with teardrop.
I really wish there were better options for AWD vans...
Yeah those outside vans are beautiful indeed! A used sportsmobile or stripped quigly might be a more economical option though. I would be in one of the AWD Sprinters if money was of no concern honestly. I mean those are seriously pretty vans. Anything that has to be registered, plated and insured because it is towed is a no for me. 4WD van or truck with cap or camper for me. Tempts me to stick around to get one of these pleasure wagons :P
-
Yeah those outside vans are beautiful indeed! A used sportsmobile or stripped quigly might be a more economical option though. I would be in one of the AWD Sprinters if money was of no concern honestly. I mean those are seriously pretty vans. Anything that has to be registered, plated and insured because it is towed is a no for me. 4WD van or truck with cap or camper for me. Tempts me to stick around to get one of these pleasure wagons :P
One thing I keep seeing on Craigslist is limo companies selling used, fairly low-mileage Sprinters. Of course, they have interiors to seat 12, like most limos, and look pretty cheesy. But they already have done the work in terms of the walls and windows. Heck, the benches could possibly be repurposed. My wife and I are thinking of going this route if the price is right, using it to go out with friends on weekends for a few months and then doing the necessary conversion.
-
I thought I would contribute to this thread.
I have lived in an RV or sailboat my whole life.
I have thought a lot about the optimal configuration. A van conversion has its place, but I don't find it the optimal tool. I am more varied in what I want to be able to do... At times we drive a lot, different states each week. Plus several off road/snow trips each year. Lots of city camping.
I have settled on a full size 4wd diesel. It doesn't matter the brand but I have always been a cummins guy. Currently have a crew cab 1991 dodge cummins with manual tans.
That is the base, from there I have a 8.5' slide in camper. Currently a 1993 Hallmark 8.5'. Hardside. If I need more room, I add a trailer. I have 2, a 22' and a 35' which a can tow with or without the slide in camper on the truck.
I bought the truck with 260k miles on it in 2006 for 5k. It now has 450k.
The 1993 Hallmark was 4k.
The 1983 35' Airstream was 11k.
The 22' trailer gets used a couple months a year for our off road trips. It was 4k I think. It is getting old, needs to be replaced.
The last year I didn't use the Airstream at all. There was only 2 of us most of the year, and when we did have more, it was for off road, so we used the 22'. The slide in camper was used every day.
Basically you get a huge variety of options. And your not spending much $$s.
The slide in camper on the truck is the most like the sprinter van. You get a full size bed, refrigerator, bath/shower, kitchen, sitting area with table. Storage in the second row of seating in the truck. 4wd. I would recommend a hardside camper over a popup. Unless, you are not long term, and it is a drive, set up and camp for a week or so, then drive back. If you are living in it full time, you will want the extra storage and larger appliances. The draw back to the hardside is the windage while driving. But you have time right? Slow down :) You take up a regular parking space.
The trailers are better suited for either more people, or point to point travel... driving to AZ for the winter for example... you will be in one place a while, you will want the better amenities.
For truck, the one I have was never made, it was a custom build using an older cab, as they only made regular cabs in 1991. It is bigger than the 2004 crew cabs. But that is what I would recommend a 2004-2007 Manual. Or a club cab 1992-1998.
Depending on what you are doing, you can take the trailer only. Unhook, and you have a vehicle. Or pack the bed of the truck with ATV or boat/toys etc. and have the trailer. Or if you need the living area take the camper and trailer... or if you are just 2 or less, just the camper and cut down on space, and be more flexible to moving around. Or you can tow a large boat/flatbed/anything, living in the camper.
I would not recommend a 5th wheel, as it makes little sense. You give up the flexibility of taking the camper, and loose your storage in the bed. Granted you can get some CRAZY 5th wheels, but they are huge, heavy and not MMM at all. 6 people can comfortably live in the Camper+Airstream and you get 2 that get their own private area with bathroom. I have not found them to tow better, and they are even taller that the camper, so more windage.
As far as milage. I get 23mpg empty. 20mpg with the camper only. 15.5 with the camper and towing the 35' trailer. I drive 58 to 63mph. It is true I don't get as good as the sprinter. But the options there... if there is a better combination I would sell everything and switch tomorrow.
Stick however many of the Sunpower E-series panels you can and use an MPPT controller (I use a Tracer from Amazon) to sort out the voltage. I like 6v Deep cycle batteries, but group 31 DC work as well.
I never run the generator (Honda EU3000) unless I want to run A/C.
This got long, I hope it contributes to this discussion, it is a little on the "related view" side of things. But it is what I do every day, so I am talking from first hand experience.
Brian
-
I thought I would contribute to this thread.
I have lived in an RV or sailboat my whole life.
I have thought a lot about the optimal configuration. A van conversion has its place, but I don't find it the optimal tool. I am more varied in what I want to be able to do... At times we drive a lot, different states each week. Plus several off road/snow trips each year. Lots of city camping.
I have settled on a full size 4wd diesel. It doesn't matter the brand but I have always been a cummins guy. Currently have a crew cab 1991 dodge cummins with manual tans.
That is the base, from there I have a 8.5' slide in camper. Currently a 1993 Hallmark 8.5'. Hardside. If I need more room, I add a trailer. I have 2, a 22' and a 35' which a can tow with or without the slide in camper on the truck.
Lots of good points here Brian. :)
I'd love a Sprinter travel van, but as you note it's a lot of $$ to tie up in one vehicle with limited flexibility.
I've got a clown car full size 4x4 pick up that's paid for. So getting a slide in camper and/or a trailer is a lot cheaper and uses the chassis/motor I already own.
The 4x4 + slide in camper will be great for Baja surf trips and other off-road adventures.
-- Vik
-
I've also been thinking about this as well. Although my current living situation is good, it is far from great. I am looking into this as a solution for a year or two while I build the retirement fund for a year or two with some good solid ground and speed. Or put down a good hit on some decent property. Since I plan on building my cord wood house, a area of home around sounds great. Since I am single, I don't have to worry about a significant other worrying or telling me that I am a cheap person.
As for hospital parking lots, it is usually safe but don't stay longer than a few days (I work at one). Although most employees and security don't care, I wouldn't do a hatchback unless I was EXTREMELY in dire straights. You might be staying in the hospital with a bad back if you do that for a long period of time.
-
Today I found this thread from Google while searching Sprinter things. Maybe Google considered I visit these forums a good deal so put it near the top of results?
Anyway, pretty cool, since I've been living in a Sprinter for a year, to see people discussing this idea. Some nice links in this thread as well that I haven't seen before.
I have spent my life studying the concept of financial independence with the goal of retiring early. I am also a pragmatist. As a result it seems unlikely that living in a van is a realistic long term retirement plan. In addition I also have had the experience of living in my truck for most of a year and spent much of my 20's driving around the nation searching for work, showering in truck stops, camping, and visiting friends as a way of getting off the road for brief stretches. It was not all that much fun. I can't imagine that the charm will last all that long before four walls and staying put again seems like heaven.
Living in a van is a romantic idea but in reality is not a practical long term plan. I have a client who sold his house last spring and bought a coach RV with the plan to spend the winters in AZ and the rest of the year wherever they want. It lasted only a few months. They are re-buying a house just down the street from the grand kids. They are lucky that they have resources to make those mistakes without too much hardship to their plan. Imagine placing all your chips on a dodge sprinter only to discover a few weeks in how cramped, cold, and un-fun it is.
I agree vandwelling may not be the best long term plan. However, it could be a great pre-FIRE or just post-FIRE while your assets are supposed to be growing the most.
For me, it's been extremely easy as I am located in a nice year round climate with plenty of amenities in the city. In fact it's been a year and I'm still reluctant to show anyone the interior since I haven't done a thing to it (no bathroom, kitchen, bed, storage); it's pretty much just camping with a metal shell around you. Eventually I'll get around to doing a proper build out which would allow me to be more independent of various amenities and thus more capable of being "in the bush" for longer.
Hopefully, for other aspiring USA-based vandwellers, in a few years there will be a lot of cheaper vans flooding the used market. Quite a few models coming out with similar dimensions to the sprinter. Europe (especially the UK) has it nice with a ton of vans being perfectly shaped.
-
I'll join the club for someone wanting to get out of bricks and mortar. If it was safe in my country I'd be living in a van of sorts, though my soon to be wife won't allow that. Fortunately my 1st prize is to live on a boat. It'll only happen when we move somewhere coastal obviously, and I'll need to size the boat quite cunningly. Small enough to be cheap, but big enough so I don't end up single!
-
I pondered a roaming retirement a few yrs ago - mostly as an ongoing motivation.
The Sprinter wasn't around then, and choices were very limited.
The Sprinter has a low-cost cousin; the Ram ProMaster. I much prefer gas over diesel too.
They are so popular that they're getting competition next year; the Ford Transit.
Cell phones and WiFi weren't around then either, which both greatly improve the potential.
For long term (ie constant) live-in, I think you pretty much have to use a trailer. I'd also want a moped or a scooter, with a basket or two.
One variation option to this is to do house sitting. It'd be so easy now with smart cell phones. Stay somewhere with heat, A/C, laundry, etc. for a few weeks, then roam around until it's time to head to the next house. Either build a select clientele of repeat business or establish a good reputation and free-lance.
they do make a Diesel Promaster now as well.
I was looking into Sprinter Diesel conversions for years to try and buy one under $60k with decent mileage and in decent shape. Didn't happen. You need to go to the $100k range especially if that is going to be your primary residence. I am not ready for permanant retirement but rather was just going to take a couple years and travel. Nixed that idea for now though
-
Thanks for the topic!
I'm interested in this idea. A lot! I have a brochure for Sprinter RVs (and others) from Roadtrek. I've hardly begun to scratch the surface of this topic, so thanks for all the listed resources people have given for further research.
My band will be renting a (passenger) Sprinter for our upcoming tour. I'll get a great idea of the vehicle, at least, from the 2500 miles we'll be covering.
I can easily imagine, as a single person, being pretty comfortable in an RV version. I may try to find somewhere to see one in person.
-The Pigeon
-
If you go to youtube.com and search for rachel vandweller you will see a video of an amazing woman who
did all the carpentry and wiring on her van to make it a dwelling.
I think you will be impressed.
-
You guys mean like these, right :D
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/21/nyregion/rich-new-yorkers-are-driving-custom-designed-cargo-vans.html?_r=0
-
You guys mean like these, right :D
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/21/nyregion/rich-new-yorkers-are-driving-custom-designed-cargo-vans.html?_r=0
I think they are looking for something a little more modest. LOL
-
Wondering if anyone considered a Honda Element for extended camping/travel. I really love the versatility of this vehicle. Not sure if I would want to live in one for a year but for a few weeks or months, hell yes. I found some sweet videos of custom sleeping setups that cost around $300 and they look very comfortable plus you maintain the stealth factor.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Folding-bed-for-car-camping/?ALLSTEPS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eWOn8yArjc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHM8Mh7ip88
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-trMLE1_o40
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shxloKNdq9c
-
Wondering if anyone considered a Honda Element for extended camping/travel. I really love the versatility of this vehicle. Not sure if I would want to live in one for a year but for a few weeks or months, hell yes. I found some sweet videos of custom sleeping setups that cost around $300 and they look very comfortable plus you maintain the stealth factor.
http://www.instructables.com/id/Folding-bed-for-car-camping/?ALLSTEPS
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9eWOn8yArjc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHM8Mh7ip88
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-trMLE1_o40
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shxloKNdq9c
I've seen some of the Element setups online. Seems good for sleeping purposes, but then there's not much space left for gear such as bicycles. It's a great car for sports stuff though. It can carry a lot and is very versatile. Too bad the car isn't in production any more.
-
If you really wanted to push it, get a roof rack. You could carry two surf boards, a kayak, and you could have a trailer hitch bicycle carrier. You would lose the stealth factor and definitely some convenience but it could be done. I wouldn't sleep in a city with that much gear mounted outside the car either. You would need a secluded spot.
I was thinking that living a vagabond/couchsurfing lifestyle you could share some gas costs with some networking on couchsurfing.com . ex. "I'm driving from LA to SF, who wants to come and split costs for gas." You could also do some uber driving in markets where it is available if you want to stretch the budget.
I'm not saying these options are for everyone but they can extend a tight travel budget.
-
Ex-van dweller here. My wife and I spent about a year and a half doing it and loved it. There's just something about being able go wherever whenever that's really appealing. Kind of like being pseudo-semi-FIRED.
Right now we live in a house but every few weeks we think back on the past and sigh forlornly. Definitely something we'll spend some time doing again when we FIRE (though we're still kinda hoping for jobs that would allow us to vandwell)
-
Off-road ability: I think it’s really not necessary. Even ‘remote’ areas are just a few miles from the nearest maintained road – so park your huge-ass metal house and fire up the walking shoes. Any old family sedan can make it on a decently maintained forest service road. 4wd ability is something people want, not actually need. The few people I know who ‘use’ 4wd put their vehicles in difficult situations intentionally, not because they need to.
Vans!!
-Sprinter gets most of the attention but it is expensive and not all that reliable... Many known issues.
-Nissan and Ford both have big new gasser vans. In a few years they should be nicely depreciated
-Dodge is selling the Fiat van as a Promaster. It’s a huge FWD minivan and could be a great choice.
-I’m partial to the full-size Chevy Express van; so much so that we bought one as the family ride (crew of 8). DW and I plan to see the hemisphere in it later in life. It’s cheap to buy (ours had suffered 50% depreciation in 3 yrs), reasonably cheap to run (18mpg highway with a light foot) and parts can be bought at friggin WalMart if needed. It’s big on the inside, AC will freeze an Eskimo, and if we ever get fancy, it’ll pull a 10,000# trailer.
-
Off-road ability: I think it’s really not necessary. Even ‘remote’ areas are just a few miles from the nearest maintained road – so park your huge-ass metal house and fire up the walking shoes. Any old family sedan can make it on a decently maintained forest service road. 4wd ability is something people want, not actually need. The few people I know who ‘use’ 4wd put their vehicles in difficult situations intentionally, not because they need to.
Vans!!
-Sprinter gets most of the attention but it is expensive and not all that reliable... Many known issues.
-Nissan and Ford both have big new gasser vans. In a few years they should be nicely depreciated
-Dodge is selling the Fiat van as a Promaster. It’s a huge FWD minivan and could be a great choice.
-I’m partial to the full-size Chevy Express van; so much so that we bought one as the family ride (crew of 8). DW and I plan to see the hemisphere in it later in life. It’s cheap to buy (ours had suffered 50% depreciation in 3 yrs), reasonably cheap to run (18mpg highway with a light foot) and parts can be bought at friggin WalMart if needed. It’s big on the inside, AC will freeze an Eskimo, and if we ever get fancy, it’ll pull a 10,000# trailer.
I've noticed there are a bunch of Ford and Chevy vans that go around town. Most of them are white. They are used for businesses. There must be a huge used market for those. And they'd be easy to sell off once you no longer need it for travel. I can imagine buying a used one right before a long trip and then selling it after the trip and very minimal depreciation. It would almost be free!
I drove by a house that had an old VW camper van for sale. I called and it was $20,000 (1979 van, but it was labelled "antique" so probably costly for that). It was well maintained. Way too pricey though. And I don't think those old VW vans are all that stealthy as a white Ford or Chevy van would be.
-
I've noticed there are a bunch of Ford and Chevy vans that go around town. Most of them are white. They are used for businesses. There must be a huge used market for those. And they'd be easy to sell off once you no longer need it for travel. I can imagine buying a used one right before a long trip and then selling it after the trip and very minimal depreciation. It would almost be free!
I drove by a house that had an old VW camper van for sale. I called and it was $20,000 (1979 van, but it was labelled "antique" so probably costly for that). It was well maintained. Way too pricey though. And I don't think those old VW vans are all that stealthy as a white Ford or Chevy van would be.
Correct! There is indeed a huge used market, though the dealers are rather specialized and it took some lookin around. You generally won't find them at the local friendly used dealer lot. TruckTrader is a great resource.
The VW's are priced by nostalgia, not value. They are awful, no other honest word for it.
-
I've noticed there are a bunch of Ford and Chevy vans that go around town. Most of them are white. They are used for businesses. There must be a huge used market for those. And they'd be easy to sell off once you no longer need it for travel. I can imagine buying a used one right before a long trip and then selling it after the trip and very minimal depreciation. It would almost be free!
I drove by a house that had an old VW camper van for sale. I called and it was $20,000 (1979 van, but it was labelled "antique" so probably costly for that). It was well maintained. Way too pricey though. And I don't think those old VW vans are all that stealthy as a white Ford or Chevy van would be.
Correct! There is indeed a huge used market, though the dealers are rather specialized and it took some lookin around. You generally won't find them at the local friendly used dealer lot. TruckTrader is a great resource.
The VW's are priced by nostalgia, not value. They are awful, no other honest word for it.
The full paneled ones seem good for stealthiness, but not good to get ventilation in while sleeping at night...or too much darkness in van while travelling.
-
Saw these in New Zealand http://www.spaceshipsrentals.co.nz/ (http://www.spaceshipsrentals.co.nz/)
Basically a people-carrier/mini-van kitted out as a car-camper.
Shouldn't be too difficult to DIY something like this
-
Saw these in New Zealand http://www.spaceshipsrentals.co.nz/ (http://www.spaceshipsrentals.co.nz/)
Basically a people-carrier/mini-van kitted out as a car-camper.
Shouldn't be too difficult to DIY something like this
Amazed at how reasonable the prices are. Stay two weeks for the price of a hotel for one night.
I'm just starting this documentary and thought I'd pass it on.
Without bound: perspectives on mobile living
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lg37Cbx-kak#action=share
-
I don't know why I haven't seen this thread before today! This is, in part, my plan for the first few years after I FIRE. Thanks for posting all the awesome links and info! :D I have a lot of reading to do now!
-
Well I'm not retired, but I did just move into my van!!
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xlf1/t31.0-8/11958149_10206884730784232_8311308851306478666_o.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9)
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/t31.0-8/11937035_10206884730824233_7226188512038097239_o.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9)
-
Well I'm not retired, but I did just move into my van!!
What kid of van is that? And what is the insulation? It looks like backed radiant barrier.
We're looking at the Transit for our trip.
-
Well I'm not retired, but I did just move into my van!!
Very nice!
-
Well I'm not retired, but I did just move into my van!!
What kid of van is that? And what is the insulation? It looks like backed radiant barrier.
We're looking at the Transit for our trip.
It's a 2012 Transit Connect! The Connects might be a bit small for two people, but it's just right for me :-) The visible insulation is reflectix, which has a layer of bubble wrap to keep heat/cold out and a layer of aluminum to keep heat in. It is mostly to keep the heat from the hot dark roof out, and it does quite well there. I also have denim batting in the doors. Not sure that does much, but it was a fun project anyway haha
-
Man Russ, I'm jealous! :D
-
says the guy cavorting around Europe indefinitely :-P
Any idea where you'll be December-March? I will be spending a few months with Grant and might like an excuse to get out of the UK for a bit...
-
says the guy cavorting around Europe indefinitely :-P
Any idea where you'll be December-March? I will be spending a few months with Grant and might like an excuse to get out of the UK for a bit...
PM sent! :)
-
1 month down, 2 to go. I'm leaving Seattle on Monday and would like to be in San Diego by Nov 13. The size is perfect for me! Plus it's very easy to park and inconspicuous in the city.
-
I'll throw in a comment on the vintage VW vans.
They aren't bad vehicles but most seem to have been neglected enough that when I've bought them they needed alot of work - brakes gone through completely, engine needs pulled for vacuum leaks, tuneup, new gaskets, etc. Many times there will be significant numbers of cooling components that are missing b/c the engine runs fine without these bits and pieces in the short term - but the key here is that it won't last long term without those pieces. These include the thermostat, thermostat flappers, some rubber seals, hoses, etc. It isn't a lawnmower engine despite the similarities.
The aircooled VWs seem to attract cheapskate owners. Maybe it is the youth of the stereotypical owners who can't/won't afford to do things right.
I have a friend who restores them like I do and he is working on one for a family.
They want it up and running quick and on the cheap. The more he worked on it - the more he found needing attention. The brakes were a mess and it would hardly stop - couldn't stop in an emergency and the brakes pulled badly. Fuel lines were rotted which is the surest way to burn an aircooled VW bus to the ground due to the fuel system design which I've redesigned on my van. His customer's van has vacuum leaks that someone tried to band-aid with caulking. And so on and so forth. It's mechanical condition was dangerous though I gathered it looked good enough.
These are reliable vehicles if a person takes the time to fix them right and not even that expensive to make right even with quality parts.
I've driven them as everyday vehicle for years and knew when it needed a little maintenance. The aircooled VW needs maintenance far more frequently than a modern vehicle. Any antique vehicle needs much more maintenance - nothing lasts as long as in a modern vehicle and an antique needs all sorts of adjustments several times per year such as carbs, brakes, valves, ignition, and linkages. Everything needs to be cleaned and lubed more often too. 3000 mile maintenance intervals come awfully quick. I can do all the adjustments and the oil change in under 45 mins if I'm in a rush.
The oldies aren't as comfortable either. 67HP in a 3500 lb vehicle. My modern four cylinder makes 145HP.
You better be patient b/c you won't storm up any mtn passes - it'll be 40 mph/3rd gear the whole way which is fine for me and mine but if you aren't realistic about it you'll burn the engine up trying to floor it everywhere you go.
No a/c either. Heat in the aircooled VWs works fine if absolutely everything is in place and functional. Door seals, all the engine cooling details I mentioned before, and tight hoses. Make sure everything is adjusted just so too. ;)
Safety: The 70s VW vans were pretty decent in a crash contrary to popular opinion. In the 60s vans safety was less important but they were originally intended for lower urban speeds and shorter distances in Europe. There are tons of vintage videos on YouTube that talk about their safety. GM did some tests and made the suspension rigid so that they could say the VW would rollover at ~20 mph. There is a crash video of an '80s Vanagon truck that was crashed into a barrier at 75+ mph with a ton or more sand in the bed. It disappeared in a cloud of dust. Crushed beyond recognition. Nobody crashes into a rigid wall like that - the other vehicle absorbs some of the energy in a crash too. And if you are hauling a ton of sand, better go slow. Or have it delivered. ;)
The 70s VW van was safer than many small modern cars but I wouldn't want to test that crashworthiness on purpose. Certainly safer than any motorcycle. No airbags (not a bad thing in my mind, see Takata). Smaller crumple zone. As with any antique vehicle - you better inspect it for rust. My seatbelt mounting points next to the door were rusty. In a crash my front seatbelts would have failed. Not now - all new steel I installed myself.
Life with an aircooled VW van on a four year trip:
https://www.youtube.com/user/kombilife
Note that many of his problems were because he never really fixed the engine until Costa Rica. He relied on sketchy used junkyard engines with no warranties, sketchy mechanics, and quick fixes. It wasn't until he did it right that the engine began to be durable. Also looks to me like he frequently overloaded the van with a rooftop carrier (wind resistance) and 8 or 9 passengers. All with ~50-60 HP. It can be done but you have to slow down, add instruments that VW left out so you can see temp and pressure trends of the engine, and be patient.
-
(http://ep1.pinkbike.org/p4pb10394086/p4pb10394086.jpg)
I met Craig on my Dec AZ mountain biking trip. Nice guy and I do like his van! :)
https://freehubmag.com/articles/home-wanderlust-way-craig-bierly
(https://freehubmag.com/sites/freehub/files/styles/fullscreen/public/articles/BenGavelda_Freehub_CraigBierly-24.jpg?itok=0DBknSrF)
I'd like to be the brown version of Craig...except I'll start younger and hopefully avoid all the surgeries! ;)
Repost from my journal. I met this gentleman on my travels through AZ at Christmas. He was living in a DIY converted Sprinter.
-
As much as I love my ancient VWs, a Sprinter would be my choice of long term camping vehicle. Many excellent ideas here and elsewhere. Thank you all.
-
Well I'm not retired, but I did just move into my van!!
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xlf1/t31.0-8/11958149_10206884730784232_8311308851306478666_o.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9)
(https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpl1/t31.0-8/11937035_10206884730824233_7226188512038097239_o.jpg?efg=eyJpIjoidCJ9)
These photos are great! Are you still happy living with this set-up?
-
These photos are great! Are you still happy living with this set-up?
AFAIK (and he can correct later, if I'm off on a detail, but I believe the jist of this is correct), Russ lived in the van for several months in the fall, spent Dec - March in London (and thereabouts, Germany, Istanbul, etc.) with the van parked at his parents' house in the midwest, then flew back to the states, had a few more weeks in the van, then parked it again and started hiking the Pacific Crest trail (from CA/Mexico border near San Diego up north towards the US/Canada border of Washington).
I think he's been hiking for 3ish months now? And still doing that. Probably back to the van after the hike, I'm assuming.
-
Posting to follow. We live on the road (15 months now) and are buying a class c rv(have been staying in hotels) interested in any discussion about living in vehicles :)
-
These photos are great! Are you still happy living with this set-up?
AFAIK (and he can correct later, if I'm off on a detail, but I believe the jist of this is correct), Russ lived in the van for several months in the fall, spent Dec - March in London (and thereabouts, Germany, Istanbul, etc.) with the van parked at his parents' house in the midwest, then flew back to the states, had a few more weeks in the van, then parked it again and started hiking the Pacific Crest trail (from CA/Mexico border near San Diego up north towards the US/Canada border of Washington).
I think he's been hiking for 3ish months now? And still doing that. Probably back to the van after the hike, I'm assuming.
Wow, what an itinerary! Thanks for the update. :-)
-
Bang on! Just got to Oregon. Maybe 6 more weeks of hiking, then taking the van... somewhere? Maybe Seattle? Got some art things to make, pretty location-independent
-
I like it a lot, but if I were starting over a bit more space would be nice. It's possible to have guests, but not very practical
-
My DH and I are FIRE and we full-time in an RV (a small class A). Right now we're in Imperial Dam LTVA on the CA/AZ border, boondocking in comfort due to our solar panels.
To all the doubters, let me tell you, go to any LTVA during the winter months in this area and you will see people full-time (or snowbird) in ALL KINDS OF SETUPS!! It's fabulous and inspiring to see. One of the best things about being out here is taking walks and "spying on the neighbors" as I like to call it, i.e. checking out everyone's setup. There are tiny truck campers, class B's, class C's, class A's, tiny trailers, toy haulers, huge fifth wheels, bus conversions (from short school bus to giant touring bus), even tenters.
We do a lot of boondocking, and at other times we travel more conventionally by staying in RV parks and state/county/city/national parks. It's kind of fun to do things differently when boondocking, and after a while conserving water like crazy becomes second nature. Let me tell you, if everyone in the country used as little water as DH and I (and this includes showers and dishes and all the normal things), we wouldn't have water water shortages anywhere.
It's the mindset, just like in anything else. Live in a truck camper because you need to and you resent it? You won't have a good time. Live in a truck camper because you are FIRE and want to see the continent? Awesome.
OP, if you have the desire, just do it. You know best what you can tolerate. Those Sprinter vans tend to have good resale value if you decide in a few years that you want something different. The only non-negotiable I would say is you should have at least one good solar panel on the roof. It makes life so much easier, and quieter because you hardly ever need to run the generator.
Good words- we have been cruising through rv parks/campgrounds etc as we prepare to move into an rv and enjoy looking at all the dfferent styles as well. Also enjoy how friendly people are and willing to chat about stuff. We've met many interesting folks already and we arent even in the rv yet :)
We are looking at solar as well, we don't need anything crazy, but like to sleep with a fan on at night and occasionally charge a phone or computer.
-
These photos are great! Are you still happy living with this set-up?
AFAIK (and he can correct later, if I'm off on a detail, but I believe the jist of this is correct), Russ lived in the van for several months in the fall, spent Dec - March in London (and thereabouts, Germany, Istanbul, etc.) with the van parked at his parents' house in the midwest, then flew back to the states, had a few more weeks in the van, then parked it again and started hiking the Pacific Crest trail (from CA/Mexico border near San Diego up north towards the US/Canada border of Washington).
I think he's been hiking for 3ish months now? And still doing that. Probably back to the van after the hike, I'm assuming.
Any chance of getting a forum category for van dwelling or otherwise nomadic folk? Seems there are a few of us here and many more that are interested? :)
-
These photos are great! Are you still happy living with this set-up?
AFAIK (and he can correct later, if I'm off on a detail, but I believe the jist of this is correct), Russ lived in the van for several months in the fall, spent Dec - March in London (and thereabouts, Germany, Istanbul, etc.) with the van parked at his parents' house in the midwest, then flew back to the states, had a few more weeks in the van, then parked it again and started hiking the Pacific Crest trail (from CA/Mexico border near San Diego up north towards the US/Canada border of Washington).
I think he's been hiking for 3ish months now? And still doing that. Probably back to the van after the hike, I'm assuming.
Any chance of getting a forum category for van dwelling or otherwise nomadic folk? Seems there are a few of us here and many more that are interested? :)
I think an overall 'travel' category would be better.
-
Any chance of getting a forum category for van dwelling or otherwise nomadic folk? Seems there are a few of us here and many more that are interested? :)
Probably not, sorry. :)
Three main reasons.
We get a LOT of requests for a lot of different forums (some semi-recent ones: politics, recipes, entrepreneur, travel, CC churning, business, blogs, individual country based, e.g. Australia, UK, etc.). We already have 24 subforums, and the more you add, the more fragmented discussion gets, and the more overwhelming the forums get.
Additionally, already people have trouble deciding what category to put things in. If we have a van subforum, but someone's asking about a van, does it go in the van sub, or ask a mustachian? If they're posting about their van, do they post in the van sub, or start a journal? What if they're FIRE'd, can it go in post-FIRE?
Finally, "Van dwelling" is probably too niche, considering we've had maybe a dozen or so threads on it over the life of the forum (out of over 50,000 total topics started).
It's definitely something I'm interested in, as well, but the threads we have will have to suffice (and feel free to start new ones, if they aren't covering a topic related to it that you're looking for!). That could change if there was a lot of interest (tax was a new forum started semi-recently (June 2015), but that's the status for now. :)
-
Any chance of getting a forum category for van dwelling or otherwise nomadic folk? Seems there are a few of us here and many more that are interested? :)
Probably not, sorry. :)
Three main reasons.
We get a LOT of requests for a lot of different forums (some semi-recent ones: politics, recipes, entrepreneur, travel, CC churning, business, blogs, individual country based, e.g. Australia, UK, etc.). We already have 24 subforums, and the more you add, the more fragmented discussion gets, and the more overwhelming the forums get.
Additionally, already people have trouble deciding what category to put things in. If we have a van subforum, but someone's asking about a van, does it go in the van sub, or ask a mustachian? If they're posting about their van, do they post in the van sub, or start a journal? What if they're FIRE'd, can it go in post-FIRE?
Finally, "Van dwelling" is probably too niche, considering we've had maybe a dozen or so threads on it over the life of the forum (out of over 50,000 total topics started).
It's definitely something I'm interested in, as well, but the threads we have will have to suffice (and feel free to start new ones, if they aren't covering a topic related to it that you're looking for!). That could change if there was a lot of interest (tax was a new forum started semi-recently (June 2015), but that's the status for now. :)
I see what you mean! I got confused just reading that 😄
-
Any chance of getting a forum category for van dwelling or otherwise nomadic folk? Seems there are a few of us here and many more that are interested? :)
Probably not, sorry. :)
Thanks. I agree. While it might be nice, there are too many subforums as is.
Also glad to finally have a chance to contribute and follow this thread. Thanks for reviving it :)
-
I checked out the website NomadlyInLove.com and read up a bit on the couple there. Real hippy-dippy which is both cool, and to be expected.
I clicked on the "giving" section though expecting it to be a list of causes they've picked up a long the way that they recommend their readers give to.
But...
The idea is pretty simple. I share my bounty in life, and life shares back. There’s no need to keep track tit-for-tat; the law of reciprocity takes care of that. Of course, that doesn’t mean good vibes provide complete sustenance. The fact is we need money to survive.
ROFL
-
I checked out the website NomadlyInLove.com
Funny to see them again--I read their blog for YEARS back when it was SprinterLife. Holy * Soleil has gotten big.
I stopped following (for a number of reasons) when they moved out of the Sprinter and moved into an RV and started that new site (which I had forgotten the name of, didn't even recognize). Fun to "see" them again. Thanks for the link. :)
-
Hello folks. An update for me: I've bought a cargo van and converted it to a sort of simple RV. I've lived in it since March 2016. I quit my job in July 2016 and have been 'traveling' full time since.
Wow! That's awesome.
I just took a quick glance at the blog, but so far you seem like my twin, but with a y chromosome. Looking forward to reading more. :)
-
what are the dimensions on that bed?
-
Hello folks. An update for me: I've bought a cargo van and converted it to a sort of simple RV. I've lived in it since March 2016. I quit my job in July 2016 and have been 'traveling' full time since.
Love the blog!
-
(http://www.grindtv.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/01/U_MWi1t6TXV8XStmfqKXEsubMKX6XPpOtpSxBbw2UHo.jpg)
I posted this in a journal, but I figured it belongs here as well. Not my photo, but it's a solid reminder of why I want to save/invest so I can kick open the door top my van or unzip my tent and see stuff like this. :)
-
I'm going to put that picture up in my cubicle for inspiration.
-
what are the dimensions on that bed?
34.5" x 73" x 5"
Love the blog!
Thank you :-D
Wow! That's awesome.
I just took a quick glance at the blog, but so far you seem like my twin, but with a y chromosome. Looking forward to reading more. :)
Thanks. Heh, cool. I looked at the list of things in your Journal that you want to do after quitting. Sounds awesome!
-
dang I need a wider van. I'd love to have my bed at the end like that
-
dang I need a wider van. I'd love to have my bed at the end like that
That looks like a standard full-size van. My big Dodge is about that wide.
-
Since you folks are keen on van life I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for a lower cost RV van that you could buy done up that was somewhere between the basic amenities of a DIY van and full on luxury RV? I'm not handy so building out a bare van is daunting and I do want some minimal amenities. It seems logical that between DIY and $100K+ luxury RVs there was a buy new option for a basic rugged travel van. That said so far I have not found it.
-
Anyone have suggestions for phone/internet usage/access while traveling around the country/continent?
Right now, I just have a dumb phone with zero data, but as my retirement date nears and my travel increases (mostly in my truck/camper), I am thinking about finally getting a smart phone with data and would like to have some access to the internet when out and about. Mind you, I'm not saying that I need to be connected at all times...but it would be nice to be able to access info about weather, etc. while traveling.
Thanks in advance.
-
I use T-Mobile and their unlimited LTE w/7gb hotspot. This has been replaced by a 14gb plan for $45 a month. Works great in any places with population. In rural areas there is no best national carrier, it depends on what works in that local.
-
Thanks, Brian. $45/month sounds quite reasonable.
-
We have 7 lines, so to be clear, $45 a month is for data service only. Voice is $10. I am not sure what a single line would cost all in.
I do know that the 7gb plan is costing me $30. $45 is for the 14gb plan. There is also a way to tether without using your tether data. So if you run out, you can go over... But I try to stay under the deprioritization around 27gb a month. This includes on phone data.
I also use an iPad, with an old unlimited plan for $29.99 all in a month. This doesn't seem to get throttled or capped. I have run 50gb+ at times. But, finding a plan is SUPER expensive. So I don't recommend it unless you happen to have one (from 2010).
-
OK--thanks for the clarification. I will do some investigating.
-
Hello folks. An update for me: I've bought a cargo van and converted it to a sort of simple RV. I've lived in it since March 2016. I quit my job in July 2016 and have been 'traveling' full time since.
Here's my van:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8715/28477649435_2836182ba2_c.jpg)
(https://c2.staticflickr.com/6/5792/30688299322_d83703f140_c.jpg)
Here's the inside:
(https://c1.staticflickr.com/9/8617/28603586806_7cfd229e02_c.jpg)
Short post about my van (http://mywilddreams.net/2016/12/02/converting-a-cargo-van-live-travel/)
My blog, mostly travel reports so far (which I'm catching up on) Lots of pictures. (http://mywilddreams.net)
Your pictures are amazing! We travel full-time in an RV (we sold our house in 2015) and it's the best decision we've ever made!
-
Wow. I'm the OP from this thread that was referenced. It's been two years since I posted this. I've purged a ton, getting ready to sell big house. Kids still five years from college, but we're transitioning. No van yet, but still on the way.
I was inspired originally by my friends who had a Sprinter and traveled 4-6 months out of the year. They've since sold their Sprinter and had a custom made vehicle made that probably can survive the apocalypse. They live full-time in it. You can check it out at twoifoverland.com.
-
Unrelated, perhaps... but after reading this thread this morning, I happened upon this story in the Atlantic about how RV sales are a bellwether/indicator of the coming economic year.
https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/12/rv-indicator/511787/?google_editors_picks=true (https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2016/12/rv-indicator/511787/?google_editors_picks=true)
-
How often can you crash at friends before it becomes imposing? -- I've asked this question before, and there doesn't seem to be a firm answer.
In my opinoon, even one night is imposing. The real question is how much good will does your host have and how fast are you using it up.
As others said, doing chores etc. could make them want you to stay forever, but even then you're disrupting their life and someone (spouce, child, neighbor) is likely going to run out of patients eventually. It might be a week or it might be a year, but it's definitely not worth ruining relationships because you missed the signs someone is getting irritated with you.
As a rule of thumb I'd plan for a max of 2 weeks, but that's based on the people I know. Some friends I wouldn't want to impose more than one night with.
-
There are so many great ideas and inspiring plans in this thread! There are also alot of helpful links and great information! I am hoping to get a van in the next year or two and outfit it to travel across the country. My fiancee and I are hoping it will give us the opportunity to see alot of places in the country we have not been to after we get married.
Unfortunately we won't be near FIRE at the time, however our current plan is to outfit the van, quit our jobs and use it to spend several months travelling across the country visiting family, friends and the outdoors. We have no definite plans so far, where we will go but alot of places we would love to go. It will depend how the first few months go, but most likely after a few months we would need to get new jobs (but in an area of the country we would rather be PNW compared to east coast). If we like living in the van we could continue doing that, or find somewhere to rent at that time.
-
There are so many great ideas and inspiring plans in this thread! There are also alot of helpful links and great information! I am hoping to get a van in the next year or two and outfit it to travel across the country. My fiancee and I are hoping it will give us the opportunity to see alot of places in the country we have not been to after we get married.
Unfortunately we won't be near FIRE at the time, however our current plan is to outfit the van, quit our jobs and use it to spend several months travelling across the country visiting family, friends and the outdoors. We have no definite plans so far, where we will go but alot of places we would love to go. It will depend how the first few months go, but most likely after a few months we would need to get new jobs (but in an area of the country we would rather be PNW compared to east coast). If we like living in the van we could continue doing that, or find somewhere to rent at that time.
Sounds like a great plan. Van life can be very low cost. If I was able to hit the road in a van [GF needs to keep working] I would have been FIRE last year vs. being FIRE in a couple more years.
-
Since you folks are keen on van life I was wondering if anyone had suggestions for a lower cost RV van that you could buy done up that was somewhere between the basic amenities of a DIY van and full on luxury RV? I'm not handy so building out a bare van is daunting and I do want some minimal amenities. It seems logical that between DIY and $100K+ luxury RVs there was a buy new option for a basic rugged travel van. That said so far I have not found it.
The difference I have with most mustachians is I have no problem dropping money on something, as long as i know I'll get most of it back when i want to sell.
In this category are used RVs. You will need to buy from an individual, so use something like searchtempest.com. If you really want a deal, find someone that will buy for you at a dealer only auction like Manheim.
In the $15-25K range is a Rialta. Cult following for these.
In the over $40k range are your used Sprinter conversions.
And, because these are small, they get decent fuel economy.
I've used the buy at a great deal philosophy for multiple motorcycles and a boat. Depreciation on any of them was in the hundreds of dollars a year. You better be patient and only buy when you have a great deal on a pretty clean vehicle though.
-
In the $15-25K range is a Rialta. Cult following for these.
I've seen a few Rialta's on the road now. Very interesting size. Like a slightly longer mini van maybe, and seems like with all the RV amenities. Not sure if a very tall person could stand up in one or not. Would have to go inside to see.
What age range would you be looking at to pay around $20k? I can imagine them going for more, but I've never seen one for sale used!
-
What age range would you be looking at to pay around $20k? I can imagine them going for more, but I've never seen one for sale used!
I think Rialta's were manufactured between 1996 and 2005. So, they are all over 10 years old.
Here's a site with a bunch listed.
https://www.rvtrader.com/New-and-Used-Winnebago-Rialta-RVs-for-Sale----RVTrader.com/search-results?make=Winnebago%7C2307464&model=Rialta%7C764852747&sort=featured%3Aasc&layoutView=listView&radius=150&
-
And here is a great video tour of a Rialta that a family of four has lived in for over a year.
Man, I love the efficiency!
https://rialtacoffeetour.wordpress.com/2013/04/29/one-year-video-tour-of-rialta/
-
For those looking for information:
BOOKS:
Vanabode - Jason Odom -- (it is 100% a how-to book, and it has a VERY MMM/ERE slant)
The VanDweller's Guide - Romana Starfield (similar to the Vanabode book, with some more technical details on setting up a solar system and plumbing, but not as good overall)
Any Road will take you there - David Berner (haven't read it yet)
How to Live in a Car, Van, or.... - Robert Wells (Haven't read it yet)
Turning a cargo van into a road trip adventure vehicle - Roger Steen (haven't read it yet)
Wide-Eyed Wanderers - Richard Ligato (Ego from the forum) - This is a travel book, not much how-to
Drive Nacho Drive - Brad Van Orden - another travel book mainly
Walden on Wheels - Ken Ilgunas - Not much about how-to, more of a biography of his life up to van-living
BLOGS - the ones I read the most:
http://63mph.com/
http://www.tosimplify.net/
http://www.arestlesstransplant.com/
http://wheresmyofficenow.com/
BLOGS - others from my feed. Many I haven't read yet:
http://campervanculture.com/
http://www.drivenachodrive.com/
http://www.gonewiththewynns.com/
http://mobilecodgers.blogspot.com/
http://ouropenroad.com/
http://www.frugal-rv-travel.com/rv-blog.html
http://wheretheheartisusa.blogspot.com/
http://gypseajourneys.blogspot.com/
http://happynomadgirl.org/
http://johnnyvagabond.com/
http://www.ruinedadventures.com/
http://www.stealthvandweller.com/
http://tortugaplata.com/
http://www.vantramps.com/
http://www.wanderwith.me/
YOUTUBE CHANNELS - ones I watch the most:
https://www.youtube.com/user/WheresMyOfficeNow
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCq4g9QUsCrCgPgG_fKEiHrQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHV7BvFPyD5Lixoo8yMRiLA
YOUTUBE CHANNELS - Others:
https://www.youtube.com/user/kelseyjoyy
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCiyiTqpss-ihtLHz-juFxIQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwc-4z3oQd7SNM2r_WFzrSQ
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1RNJS2MMyN1DkQNZAdMKRQ (Conversion videos)
https://www.youtube.com/user/werkbook/videos
https://www.youtube.com/user/RubberTrampsReviews/videos
https://www.youtube.com/user/westfaliawanderings/videos
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVgr4nckG_V0f0QM-byzI5Q/videos
I love/hate you right now lol!
-
I'm not looking to live in a Sprinter, but I'm thinking of getting one to do some travelling in.
My reason for wanting a Sprinter (type) even though I'm single is to carry a small motorcycle - inside where it's out of sight and can be locked.
Someone told me it's illegal to have anything with a gas tank in a vehicle. But I know there are RVs called 'toy haulers' that do it... Can anyone shed some light on this?
-
Dh and I are thinking about starting a project like this before RE. Not a full time live in, but multi week adventure!
-
Dh and I are thinking about starting a project like this before RE. Not a full time live in, but multi week adventure!
you might check out some of the journals here (C-40s is great and there are others). Gives you a good idea of the ups and downs, costs, challenges etc... I've done this in.a small truck with a shell solo with my dog and recently rented a van for a couple of months to try it out as a potential full time thing. While it is much better than the truck (more room, no having to go outside with the bears and serial killers to get from cab to rear, etc...) I've had some issues I didnt really think about if doing it full time (although most were probably due to travelling alone and with a dog). So now I know I don't want to do it full time right now, but I think its a great way to go. Trying it out before making a big investment or cut all home ties (sell house, etc..) might be good if you've never done it before.
My own challenges in a month have been dog hurt and needs to be completely contained, carried or pushed in trailer everywhere. Couldn't take her many places but couldnt leave her alone too long. Dog's meds give her vomiting and bad diarrhea while camping in remote areas. Me getting food poisoning and basicly being like dog and having to care for her and I while camping in remote areas. 100 plus heat wave while camping. Snow storm while camping. Otherwise was great but solo with dog presented some challenges. Socializing might present some challenges. C-40s blog has some discussions about dating while full time van dwelling so worth reading for singles or solo travelers. As a woman there are some added worries about safety (is that nice guy you just met with the older van with the full size freezer in his van C-40 or a serial killer ;-)).
Anyways I'm looking at keeping it part time too and will leave the poopy dog at home from now on ;-).
Very interesting, thank you for sharing. Poor you and dog, that sounds horrible. I am glad you didn't give up on it completely for the future :).
I think van dwelling and dating would be rough. Well, I think dating in general would be rough, so living in a van would make it more so. A good way of weeding out those that are close minded about the situation though. :-).
LV
-
My wife and I will be retiring next year into a Dodge Ram Promaster for full time living and travel.
My biggest piece of advice before you leap into this lifestyle: TRY IT FIRST. We have had the van about 14 months and during that time we have spent about 5 and a half weeks travelling and boondocking out of that van(several weeks with our dogs to make sure they can handle it as well). At this point and are on layout #5 or 6 as we keep on tweaking things to fit how we use it.
We kept the build out pretty low tech so that if things break, it's something that can easily be fixed via a stop at a home depot/lowe's.
-
Aegishjalmur I love your handle "Plans are useless. Planning is indispensable."
:):)
-
Aegishjalmur I love your handle "Plans are useless. Planning is indispensable."
:):)
Agreed, it's a good one, very similar to Dwight D. Eisenhower's quote "Plans are nothing. Planning is everything."
-
:D
-
Fortunately after my trials and tribulations everything went really well and I really enjoyed van.dwelling. My 2 months are ending on.the first but am considering doing it full time come spring.
Glad to hear it picked up! :)
-
Yay! I like hearing you happy.
-
Too good not to share: Smart Car with Sleeping and Dining Conversion (https://sfbay.craigslist.org/pen/rvs/d/smart-car-custom-rv/6365710496.html)
(https://i.imgur.com/nkGX9R0.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/0UoMcs5.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/GSKthEb.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/nWiRvTv.png)
(https://i.imgur.com/nWiRvTv.png)
-
Hah. That's both absurd and awesome. I love it.
-
We could live in a Sprinter van, but traveling the US isn't adventurous enough for us. The US to us is boring. Basically all the same people in all the states, all the same stores, all the same neighborhoods for the most part, same highways and roadways, just boring. It would get old quick. We'd rather travel in unfamiliar territory where we are more challenged and where there is more to learn.
Some people that travel in the US say things about meeting people and how great that is, but meeting new people means telling your same old story to each of them (for conversation) and I'd get tire of hearing myself talk. It was like when I was dating, every new woman, tell her about me, settling down was great, didn't have to hear myself tell my life story again.
-
We could live in a Sprinter van, but traveling the US isn't adventurous enough for us. The US to us is boring. Basically all the same people in all the states, all the same stores, all the same neighborhoods for the most part, same highways and roadways, just boring. It would get old quick. We'd rather travel in unfamiliar territory where we are more challenged and where there is more to learn.
Some people that travel in the US say things about meeting people and how great that is, but meeting new people means telling your same old story to each of them (for conversation) and I'd get tire of hearing myself talk. It was like when I was dating, every new woman, tell her about me, settling down was great, didn't have to hear myself tell my life story again.
So hiking thru the giant redwoods of Calif is the same as climbing in the Rockies or kayaking in.the Everglades or sailing along the coast of Maine or mountain biking thru the redrocks of Utah or fly fishing on a lake in Minnosota or ...etc... Yes I can see how boring it must be in the US.
Yeah, but is that the profile of most living in a van. From my experience watching on youtube, it is not. If that is one's thing, however, more power to them, great! For those just traveling to Alaska in the summer to beat the heat and then traveling to Florida in the winter to beat the cold, it will get old fast. It won't be an adventure.
-
We could live in a Sprinter van, but traveling the US isn't adventurous enough for us. The US to us is boring. Basically all the same people in all the states, all the same stores, all the same neighborhoods for the most part, same highways and roadways, just boring. It would get old quick. We'd rather travel in unfamiliar territory where we are more challenged and where there is more to learn.
Some people that travel in the US say things about meeting people and how great that is, but meeting new people means telling your same old story to each of them (for conversation) and I'd get tire of hearing myself talk. It was like when I was dating, every new woman, tell her about me, settling down was great, didn't have to hear myself tell my life story again.
So hiking thru the giant redwoods of Calif is the same as climbing in the Rockies or kayaking in.the Everglades or sailing along the coast of Maine or mountain biking thru the redrocks of Utah or fly fishing on a lake in Minnosota or ...etc... Yes I can see how boring it must be in the US.
Yeah, but is that the profile of most living in a van. From my experience watching on youtube, it is not. If that is one's thing, however, more power to them, great! For those just traveling to Alaska in the summer to beat the heat and then traveling to Florida in the winter to beat the cold, it will get old fast. It won't be an adventure.
I think that's the profile of many of the MMM forum members (including myself) who do this already or plan to once FIREd. Might be an age thing in that they are retired in their 30s and 40s. Also many here have spent a big part of their FIRE travelling all over the world (often grungy hostel staying backpacker style) so get to experience much of the world and choosing to travel in the US is just another adventure amongst many adventures. Many of the journals in.the journal section reflect this kind of active, adventure filled life rather than more sedendary traditional RVing of just going from town to town/place to place to see the sights. Not that there's anything wrong with RVing/van dwelling just to sightsee in the US or the world but there is so much in the US that I personally would never label it boring. YMMV of course.
ETA: Go Dodgers!! ;-)
Not sure how people in a van could routinely climb, bike, kayak and more from a van unless they are going to rent equipment each time. There is only so much room in a van and considering many want solar and a kitchen counter with sink and small frig in the van, no idea how all the equipment is going to fit. I find it unrealistic. If that is what's planned, I don't think a van is going to work. I thought the profile on MMM was to get enough money to retire and then be afraid to retire or wife/husband retires but the other still works. Some have retired, but vast majority always seemed to have a reason once able to FIRE to keep working. You know, like MMM himself, on his way to 400k/yr running this blog, he didn't "work" at it, it was still considered just a hobby or he was still classified as retired because he didn't have to work. It seems many just want the FU money as just in case. That's the perception I've gotten over time on MMM, but maybe it has changed, I don't come here often as posts are mostly repeats. Take care.
-
Not sure how people in a van could routinely climb, bike, kayak and more from a van unless they are going to rent equipment each time. There is only so much room in a van and considering many want solar and a kitchen counter with sink and small frig in the van, no idea how all the equipment is going to fit. I find it unrealistic. If that is what's planned, I don't think a van is going to work.
I've seen plenty of Vans with the kayak on top, bike on rack on the back. (And storage box on back or top that could easily hold climbing equipment).
Totally doable.
I thought the profile on MMM was to get enough money to retire and then be afraid to retire or wife/husband retires but the other still works.
I laughed, cause I thought you were joking (then read the next part).
It's true, there's a handful of people that fit this profile.
There's far more who become FI and then ER. Read the "class of"/"cohort" threads for 2015, 2016, and 2017. (See the sticky in the general discussion subsection for links.)
Some have retired, but vast majority always seemed to have a reason once able to FIRE to keep working. You know, like MMM himself, on his way to 400k/yr running this blog, he didn't "work" at it, it was still considered just a hobby or he was still classified as retired because he didn't have to work. It seems many just want the FU money as just in case. That's the perception I've gotten over time on MMM, but maybe it has changed, I don't come here often as posts are mostly repeats. Take care.
Not gonna bother with this IRP stuff.
If that's your impression, /shrug
Move along, nothing to see here.
-
We're looking into getting a Transit for travelling. Glad I found this thread. :)
-
Not sure how people in a van could routinely climb, bike, kayak and more from a van unless they are going to rent equipment each time. There is only so much room in a van and considering many want solar and a kitchen counter with sink and small frig in the van, no idea how all the equipment is going to fit. I find it unrealistic.
I know lots of multi-sport people doing the van thing. Try Google Search if you really are interested in seeing how it's done. Ultimately I am hearing a lot of negativity from you on the topic and for sure heading down a different path like this will not work if you start thinking that way. If you are not interested in van living in North America that's fine, but I don't get the negative rationalization why it sucks and won't work despite the pretty easy to find empirical evidence to the contrary.
-
"People Who Say It Cannot Be Done Should Not Interrupt Those Who Are Doing It"
-
Spartana, how are you doing a long term van rental? Specific company? Was it reasonable rates?
-
...
Yeah, but is that the profile of most living in a van. From my experience watching on youtube, it is not. If that is one's thing, however, more power to them, great! For those just traveling to Alaska in the summer to beat the heat and then traveling to Florida in the winter to beat the cold, it will get old fast. It won't be an adventure.
I promise you won't ever see youtube videos from my husband and I but the bikes are inside the van, we will either do an inflatable kayak or a foldable one and walking/hiking doesn't require fancy equipment.
And you clearly have never been off the beaten path if you think you can find the same old stores in every neighborhood. I still remember shouting with glee when we found a tackle shop because we needed eggs and there were no stores...
-
Oh man. And I thought the Early Retirement Police were rough! Now we have Adventuring Police.
I've lived in the United States my whole life, and I've been adventuring since I was a little kid. I love international travel too, but I have a list of like, a hundred adventures I still need to do stateside.
And if 2017 has taught me anything, it is that the United States definitely is not made up of all the same people telling the same story.
To each their own though.
-
We could live in a Sprinter van, but traveling the US isn't adventurous enough for us. The US to us is boring. Basically all the same people in all the states, all the same stores, all the same neighborhoods for the most part, same highways and roadways, just boring. It would get old quick. We'd rather travel in unfamiliar territory where we are more challenged and where there is more to learn.
Some people that travel in the US say things about meeting people and how great that is, but meeting new people means telling your same old story to each of them (for conversation) and I'd get tire of hearing myself talk. It was like when I was dating, every new woman, tell her about me, settling down was great, didn't have to hear myself tell my life story again.
I’m surprised someone who is striving to appear so culturalized also appears so close minded
You think a Sprinter van limits you to the states? Come on lol. Take trips through Canada, Alaska, Baja, Mexico, and all of Central American, then get back to us. Honestly, many people ferry their vehicles down to South America as well.
In the last year I’ve spent 8 weeks backpacking 5 countries in Asia. 3 weeks doing a 3000 mile Motorcycle trip through Baja, and 2 months doing a cross country US/Canada trip for 8000 miles in our 4runner and off-road trailer.
I fully understand the desire to travel out of the US, but based on your post it’s fairly obvious that you’ve barely experienced a sliver of North America.
My wife and I plan to go back to Baja next with the 4runner and Off Road trailer with RTT next. I honestly think we enjoyed it there more than Asia, and we definitely experienced a LOT in Asia. I’d eventually like to do a Central America run as well.
Our 4runner/trailer set up is very convenient, capable, and comfortable. We slept in the tent 38/41 nights in total comfort including several nights of slow, and have been working on it more since to make things more convenient for longer term.
-
You think a Sprinter van limits you to the states?
You can ship a van to any continent on the planet for a few thousand dollars, but if FB can't get his mind wrapped around the very basics there is no point even thinking about that.
You can also put the van into storage far more easily than a house or apartment and jump on a plane for a trip to any part of the world when you want to do something different.
-
It is possible to do what you guys say - I agree. Pretty much all things are possible within reason. It depends on your goal.
I've watched many youtubes on the subject and none are outfitted to do it all. Most seem to be concerned mostly about being able to stealth camp in cities without being bothered by the police and recently most are outfitting vans with solar so the top of the van can't have solar and adventure equipment, because a slight shadow on panels has an enormous affect on output.
My perspective comes from youtube alone. Sure there are some that can do something different, but my opinion is that the majority of van dwellers are of the youtube type. I'm not saying there is no one outside of the youtube type, however.
The vans pictured aren't stealth vans, they aren't the typical in my opinion, but if the typical in your mind is an adventure van, that is fine, we have different viewpoints.
Vans pictured wouldn't be stealth enough in a city or a touristy beach area, but more purposed for way out in the middle of nowhere, which is fine, but the van dwellers I see on youtube, most of them, aren't the "I want to be out in the middle of nowhere" types. That is my impression, but if you have a different take, that's fine. I personally haven't seen the adventurous types out to do many different outdoor activities as the typical van dweller, but if that is your impression, again, that's fine.
The vans pictured may also not be for van living, but geared toward adventure weekends. Van living is entirely different than taking a van out for a weekend or even a week.
Not sure many would adventure in Mexico/Central America with a van that has a lot of valuables hanging all over it. It isn't a good idea doing that in certain North America cities let alone Mexico/Central America. Fine if you know people doing it, but I've not witnessed it.
-
Cargo van's are surprisingly roomy. You can fit a lot in. Think of it as Master level 3d tetris- none/few of the items are the same shape and you are fitting into odd shaped/non square areas. Part of the issue though is that until you look at the options, you don't know what's available. One vandweller on his blog(vandog traveler) commented that when vam living, your brain switches into 24/7 problem solving mode, and I have found this to be true even when doing the build out. The process of designing and building is challenging from a creative standpoint, but it's FUN. my van is something that DW and me can use. It suits are needs and wants and we are still tweaking as we go, but after having lived and travelled out of it for over 5 weeks, we have it dialed in to suit are needs. For example:
Solar panels- you can do the permanent ones attached to the roof, but you can also get portable ones that are in a fold up cloth bag(so very light/portable and easy to store, which also makes vehicle more stealthy.
As Spartana mentioned you can get either collapsible canoes(google origami canoe) or inflatable kayaks that take up minimal space, and a 12 volt air pump is pretty small.
Kindles can replace whole libraries.
Power: Yes, you can do generators and large battery banks, but you can also get smaller battery systems that way well under 20 lb's that an either be charged by solar panels on 12 volt when travelling/driving(Goal zero has some large ones, but a quick amazon search will bring up others). Most small electronics can be charged on these or again on USB hookups when driving. You can't have everything but you learn what you use. for example, small USB powered fans an last 3-4 nights and when you have a smaller lightweight lithium battery hookup, you can hang from the ceiling to have a breeze on warmer nights(I am not big on putting holes in my van. holes can leak so a roof vent is not a favored option). A spare white tarp and a couple lengths of rope/stakes can make a quick sunshade for the van if in a warmer area with very little shade to help keep cooler.
I have a cooler(not a yeti, you don't need to go that pricey) that when temps are in upper 70's, low 80's, a 20 lb bag of ice lasts several days so eliminates need of fridge.
Good insulated mugs allow you to make up hot coffee/tea/water in the morning and have throughout day.
A collapsible outdoor room combined with collapsible table, folding chairs gives you the ability to get extra room for cooking and relaxing when camping.
-
I have to chuckle at the inconvenience that some think others will take on a regular basis while "living" in a van as opposed to a weekend out. Still not buying it, but guys, have fun.
-
Regarding the different perspectives on van and vehicle dwelling, a big part is that hopefully when you are FIRE'd you are doing it because you want to, and it lets you do what you want to do, not because you have to. If for some reason you don't like it, you can stop doing it. Almost anything can be enjoyable if you are choosing to do it, and most things can be horrible if you have to do it.
On the more negative sides, I have read some experiences (https://expeditionportal.com/westx1000-the-trials-tribulations-of-a-millennial-nomad/) along "Parked outside of your parents’ apartment, or on a side street in San Clemente, you realize, after about a week, that you’re no longer a nomad, you’re just homeless and living in a van. And that realization is harsh."
But that is more a matter of being forced to live out of a van from economic necessity (or a bad choice) which is hopefully not the case when FIRE'd
-
In slightly exciting news, Husband has been told his next (full private use with first option to buy when they change them over) work vehicle will be a Sprinter.
He currently has a Merc. Vito van. I must admit, if the Sprinter is as rubbish in build quality as the Vito, we won't be taking them up on their offer. But given the usual changeover period is about 3-4 years and he won't be getting it until about May-July 2018, we have plenty of time to evaluate the vehicle and decide what we want to do. Plus we will know the history since new.
-
On the more negative sides, I have read some experiences (https://expeditionportal.com/westx1000-the-trials-tribulations-of-a-millennial-nomad/) along "Parked outside of your parents’ apartment, or on a side street in San Clemente, you realize, after about a week, that you’re no longer a nomad, you’re just homeless and living in a van. And that realization is harsh."
Haha!
Some of us like being homeless and living in a van [RV]. ;)
-
I have to chuckle at the inconvenience that some think others will take on a regular basis while "living" in a van as opposed to a weekend out. Still not buying it, but guys, have fun.
Try mywilddreams.net if you actually want an example. He is even planning a trip to Mexico. If you are just here to tell us your youtube search is the only sampling you will accept and you don't think that sounds like fun, please feel free to ignore. To each their own.
Many people that FIRE and/or go adventuring post less as they are busy living it up.
If the goal is to maximize ones happiness, then the options for declaring success are very personal but also limitless.
Lv
-
PTF. PTF so hard. work life is so blehhhh
-
Some of us like being homeless and living in a van [RV]. ;)
Apparently the term (or at least one term) is “houseless” from this again slightly less than positive article: Many older Americans are living a desperate, nomadic life (https://www.marketwatch.com/story/many-older-americans-are-living-a-desperate-nomadic-life-2017-11-06)
Again, big difference between being houseless by choice and it being awesome, and being houseless by necessity, which is what I think a lot of the negative youtube videos will be
-
Again, big difference between being houseless by choice and it being awesome, and being houseless by necessity
Absolutely.
My comment about liking being homeless was very tongue-in-cheek.
There are an unfortunate number of people in bad housing situations due to events outside of their control and not enough public safety net to help them.
Thanks for sharing those articles!
-
It is awesome that some people are willing to actually live in a van full time with snowboards, skis, bikes, hiking/climbing gear, surfboards and solar panels all attached and/or nicely folded away. That is great if it is what you really want to be doing. I'm not saying no one on earth is willing to tackle living in a van and even more in an RV, but we aren't talking about RVs, the OP is about living in a van. I'm saying most won't live in a van and if you guys are saying people willing to do this are easy to find, I find it suspect, because often on this forum, people speak about others spending way too much money fueling their convenient lifestyle which means generally the opinion of others outside of this forum is that most people favor convenience over inconvenience even to the point that they won't mow their lawn or clean their own house or drive a dated car. So if you are saying there are a few tough individuals out there willing to sacrifice convenience for years by living in a van and having no secondary living space other than the occasional hotel/motel, yeah, I agree.
-
My van dwelling hero, Glenn Morissette, used to run a blog called "To Simplify." He's on his third van. He built van #3 himself. He recently decided to simplify further by shutting down the blog and moving to Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/tosimplify/
Part of why he did so was because of the steady stream of negative comments from the naysayers. It got old being told it wouldn't work, while he had been doing exactly that for years, and quite successfully.
-
I'm gonna do it.
I'm not even close to my $625k but instead of grinding the corporate life anymore, I'm just going to reduce expenses by renting my house out, or airbnb it, one of the two.
My GF and I have already done some sweet 10 day trips in this. Actually, first we did 8 days out of a 2004 Sienna. I wanted to live in the Sienna, but she convinced me that since we have 2 dogs as well, to get this giant whale of a van.
For chistmas we will be in it for 15 days.
When we are out at Joshua tree for 5 days just climbing, biking, without a care in the world, I feel amazing. Work feels like some tiny problem from a former life. I know I can do it, I have money stashed that wouldn't really have to be touched. Margin on the rental plus odd jobs and internet work can pay for fuel and food. GF has an internet based business already.
Plus if it gets really bad, we can eat the dogs. Jk, if it gets really bad, we can bail back to "normal" life, but this is probably more prep for full -time sailboat living.
Cool thing about this van, is it's not a Sprinter. Bad thing about this van, is it's a Ford. Well, just kidding, kind of. It's absolutely a more reliable drivetrain and it has a twin turbo 3.5 V6 with 400 ft.lb torque and 310 HP. It is seriously fast as hell, even at 7800 LBs, pulling about a 16 second quarter mile. MPG not great we average around 16, but it's a 7800 LB land yacht.
(https://i.imgur.com/Nzlz7XL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SuRW5eS.jpg?1)
-
gah so lame how this forum doesn't automatically resize pics. what am i doing wrong
-
Dump Truck, I would love more info on your build!!
-
It's a 2015 Ford Transit 250 (not a connect) - long wheelbase, extended body, high roof. It's huge.
I bought it used mostly kitted out like it is, with a 450 aH battery bank, 2800 continuous watt pure sine inverter, and Norcold DE0041 refridgerator.
The batteries charge off the van but I recently bought solar panels, solar charge controller, and all the fixings to install the solar system. I'm going to reconfigure the whole van and start from scratch soon, I want to emphasize a weight reduction and use LiPO4 battery banks instead of the lead acid, and install 80/20 aluminum framing for everything. And a different insulation system.
I wish i could get the pics to insert properly
-
I want to emphasize a weight reduction and use LiPO4 battery banks instead of the lead acid, and install 80/20 aluminum framing for everything. And a different insulation system.
You aren't joking there, in terms of weight savings and usability, the lithium is a huge benefit. An AGM bank of that size is what, 250 lb's or so? vs lithium which would be about half that plus significantly less bulky.
-
I want to emphasize a weight reduction and use LiPO4 battery banks instead of the lead acid, and install 80/20 aluminum framing for everything. And a different insulation system.
You aren't joking there, in terms of weight savings and usability, the lithium is a huge benefit. An AGM bank of that size is what, 250 lb's or so? vs lithium which would be about half that plus significantly less bulky.
Yes it's easily 250 LBs, currently I have three group 31s. They are super super heavy. But the previous owner used a lot of wood cabinetry etc, so there is a lot of room to lighten up.
-
Wood is pretty but definitely heavy. Looking at those photos it looks like they built it pretty sturdily so I suspect you will be able to cut quite a bit of weight(so for example, if have solid wood dividers between cabinets, may be able to remove those and replace w/ a single brace). Sounds like a fun project, rebuilding it and making it your own.
You mentioned improving the insulation, are you taking down the walls? If so, maybe look at replacing the existing with either thinner wood panels or wainscot?
If you really want to lighten it up, look at the wire metal shelving from Home depot https://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-48-in-W-x-72-in-H-x-18-in-D-Decorative-Wire-Chrome-Heavy-Duty-Shelving-Unit-HD18481302PS-1/203846551 (https://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-48-in-W-x-72-in-H-x-18-in-D-Decorative-Wire-Chrome-Heavy-Duty-Shelving-Unit-HD18481302PS-1/203846551) you can also get 'basket' shelves that have an 8 inch deep basket so things won't slide.
What's fun with the vans is you can go as complex or simple as you want to fit how you use it.
-
It is awesome that some people are willing to actually live in a van full time with snowboards, skis, bikes, hiking/climbing gear, surfboards and solar panels all attached and/or nicely folded away. That is great if it is what you really want to be doing. I'm not saying no one on earth is willing to tackle living in a van and even more in an RV, but we aren't talking about RVs, the OP is about living in a van. I'm saying most won't live in a van and if you guys are saying people willing to do this are easy to find, I find it suspect, because often on this forum, people speak about others spending way too much money fueling their convenient lifestyle which means generally the opinion of others outside of this forum is that most people favor convenience over inconvenience even to the point that they won't mow their lawn or clean their own house or drive a dated car. So if you are saying there are a few tough individuals out there willing to sacrifice convenience for years by living in a van and having no secondary living space other than the occasional hotel/motel, yeah, I agree.
No one here said everyone wants to do this. Even that most frugal ERE (early retirement extreme) or MMMs want to do this. But there are people who not only live and travel in vans but actually prefer doing it that way compared to other ways. Just as there are people who love to spend years self contained bicycle touring around the world (this would be my personal preferred way to travel but my dog hates it but still dream: http://solofemalecyclist.com/p/wow-women-on-wheels.html ). Or motorcycle touring like forum member Endless. Journey. Or backpacking their way around the globe for years. To them even small car camping would be unappealing. Is that "most" people? No. Is it even a lot of people? Probably not. Does that matter to those of us who prefer this kind of life? No. No one here has said you or anyone else should like it or do it. If it doesn't suit your life that's great. There are millions of more mainstream websites and blogs for more traditional RV or larger more highly equipted camper van touring you might find that fit your vision better.
Right "no one here" I get it, really, I get it, I need no further clarification, but thanks, I completely understand.
-
gah so lame how this forum doesn't automatically resize pics. what am i doing wrong
You can add a width= some number (in pixels) to your image tag like so:
(https://i.imgur.com/Nzlz7XL.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/SuRW5eS.jpg?1)
-
Some of us like being homeless and living in a van [RV]. ;)
Apparently the term (or at least one term) is “houseless” from this again slightly less than positive article: Many older Americans are living a desperate, nomadic life (https://www.marketwatch.com/story/many-older-americans-are-living-a-desperate-nomadic-life-2017-11-06)
Again, big difference between being houseless by choice and it being awesome, and being houseless by necessity, which is what I think a lot of the negative youtube videos will be
Or you could take a note from the childless becomes childfree movement and be housefree or homefree.
-
Thanks for resizing those pics, Terran.
Dump Truck, most refrigerators are designed to be opened from either side, but most people don't realize they're reversible. Not sure about the small ones, but it might be worth a look. Convenience/utility in a tiny space takes on a much higher priority.
And Spartana, your tact is amazing. Nicely played.
-
Dump Truck - I am so excited for you. Happy travels, the van looks like fun!
DH and I are doing a first run with our van over Thanksgiving weekend. Hammocks to be strung in the back and with plastic bins to start figuring out placement.
LV
-
Dump Truck - I am so excited for you. Happy travels, the van looks like fun!
DH and I are doing a first run with our van over Thanksgiving weekend. Hammocks to be strung in the back and with plastic bins to start figuring out placement.
LV
Good luck! We started with the mattress on the floor and plastic bins and 5 versions later have our preferred layout. Its fun figuring out what works best for you.
-
Does anyone know if there is a cached version of Glenn Morrissette's "To Simplify" blog?
It was pure gold in terms of this type of lifestyle. Now the URL to the blog redirects to Glenn's Instagram.
:(
-
Does anyone know if there is a cached version of Glenn Morrissette's "To Simplify" blog?
It was pure gold in terms of this type of lifestyle. Now the URL to the blog redirects to Glenn's Instagram.
:(
Archive.org has pieces of Glenn's old site in their snapshots:
https://web.archive.org/web/*/www.tosimplify.net (https://web.archive.org/web/*/www.tosimplify.net)
Make sure to look at the snapshots prior to May 16 (when Glenn redirected to IG), otherwise you'll get in a weird redirect loop.
I wonder why he took it down......thank you for sharing that!
-
I wonder why he took it down......thank you for sharing that!
He simplified his online presence.
-
Again, big difference between being houseless by choice and it being awesome, and being houseless by necessity
Absolutely.
My comment about liking being homeless was very tongue-in-cheek.
There are an unfortunate number of people in bad housing situations due to events outside of their control and not enough public safety net to help them.
Thanks for sharing those articles!
I got the tounge in cheek. I use the same comment, but I may be worse.
I saw another article about vehicle dwellers in Silicon Valley (https://nypost.com/2017/11/07/silicon-valleys-car-people-push-homeless-crisis-to-the-brink/) and one family mentioned paying $1,000 / month to rent their RV (probably cheap compared to rent, and easier with bad credit) and my first thought was hmm I could rent out my RV and make money...
So you are tounge in cheek, I might be actively evil :S
Or you could take a note from the childless becomes childfree movement and be housefree or homefree.
I like that terminology (and job free). I think for now I'll stick to free range human
-
Does anyone know if there is a cached version of Glenn Morrissette's "To Simplify" blog?
It was pure gold in terms of this type of lifestyle. Now the URL to the blog redirects to Glenn's Instagram.
:(
Any particularly good articles you liked (if you can find cached versions)
-
Dump Truck - I am so excited for you. Happy travels, the van looks like fun!
DH and I are doing a first run with our van over Thanksgiving weekend. Hammocks to be strung in the back and with plastic bins to start figuring out placement.
LV
The build out is a lot of fun.
Just as a warning, you would be surprised how much things will try to move(especially if you need to stop suddenly going down a hill, or turning sharply, or going off roading over even moderately rough ground), and how annoying rattling can be so I have a few suggestions: 1. Get a multi pack of Bungie cords and/or you can get 36 inch zipties that have a 250 lb tensile strength(and these are big enough that with a small screwdriver you can press down the 'tongue' portion to release it to allow reuse(so you can easily test multiple setups before deciding how you want it and permanently attaching). Between these you can secure things to the sides of the van and into the shelves to prevent things sliding around or jumping out of the bins. 2. Bring extra sheets or towels. These can be used as padding to prevent the rattling, or at least muffle it down. If you put a sheet/blanket over the bins after they have been secured to the walls, it will muffle the sounds of things sliding around inside the bins.