six months of van life, six months of mistakes on the road [an honest conversation]
Рет қаралды 215,195
3 жыл бұрынInstagram: / mariahthewind_
Email: oursimplelens@gmail.com
#vanlife
#mistakes
So, let's face it. We all make mistakes. When Cole & I hit the road full time in June, mid COVID-19, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. Six months later, here I am to talk about our first six months on the road, the mistakes we made, the things I wish I'd known before I started van life... alllll the juicies... enjoy.
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@scottca9780 3 жыл бұрын
I had a friend who bought a brand new F-150 with all the options, and it cost a fortune. I remember the day something bumped into the truck, his pride and joy. I assumed he's be really upset but his response was, "it isn't a truck until it gets its first dent." This is a philosophy to embrace, and I think it applies to vans too.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
When I was 16 I rear ended someone in traffic, and he said the same thing. As the time with the van has grown, I've started to see it that way too, with the small dents, the ones that tell a story haha.
@scottca9780 3 жыл бұрын
@@MariahAlice it's all character.
@nicovanzyl1979 2 жыл бұрын
@@MariahAlice Nico💞
@tammyhuie 2 жыл бұрын
Vehicles are going to get dents and dings. And my philosophy is a vehicle is a “thing” not a “person”. If we put more value in taking care of our relationships like we do our vehicles wouldn’t the world have better people in it?
@bzribee 3 жыл бұрын
I"ve been working backwards through your videos. I really like each one--I feel as if you're in our kitchen and telling your travel stories, then we'll tell ours. You're natural--just telling what happened and the truth of how you felt, which is the most helpful part, as many of us go through the same things. Your style of storytelling is wonderful--no need to change or make "perfect" videos, which I think you know. I did a lot of solo traveling in my 20's and 30's and now I"m getting ready for more in retirement. I think of a van as a small RV so I"m surprised to hear about vans not being welcome where there are RV's. I don't know if that was true back when I used to travel a lot, and in my car. I think I was probably just tuned out. Or times were different. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and errors, likes and dislikes, maps, etc. I"d like to hear more about welcoming vs non-welcoming locations. Were they places where the RV'ers paid?
@traveldog1 3 жыл бұрын
Mariah, you are really good at this. Showing your visitors what things are really like living in a van, good and bad is great! I am closing in on retirement and after living a life owning a couple of dog related businesses, I am trying to figure out if there is one last business venture left in me that I can do in a van on the road. I am inspired by you and your honesty. Keep doing what you love and your road family will materialize. I am a subscriber so I will continue to learn from you and perhaps we will meet out there in van land soon.
@Lisa-gy5pw 3 жыл бұрын
I'm having the same exact feeling! Any luck in finding van based businesses? Peace!
@LeoLady3966 3 жыл бұрын
I retire from military in 3 years, possibly looking to live on road and maybe work on degree with GI Bill- providing I find. Wifi 😳. Or just enjoy myself and travel
@alyssacal2585 Жыл бұрын
Dog grooming at van meet ups can be a side business
@brentperez4700 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you. I enjoyed your video. I’m kinda ADD and I like the way you crafted the story with the map and kept it moving fast. I feel your story is about a women on a quest to find her quest and its very relatable. Keep finding your voice, cause its a good one.
@Michaelw777.52 3 жыл бұрын
You learned a lot. Early in the beginning of your other video, you weren't sure just how you were going to be - you learned that. I wouldn't call what you did mistakes, just experience. You found your voice during that six months, and your van life/nomad preferences. I call that a success! On the unfriendly treatment you got in...Minnesota? I'm going to suggest it wasn't your van - it was your California plates. There are people in states that really hate California, and by extension - you. I was often treated poorly by people in SC, other drivers - it all went away after I got SC plates. They don't know anything about our state, but they're going to hate on us anyway. Something to consider.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Oh I absolutely agree as far as the Cali plates...I've considered changing my state of residence, it would save me a lot of $$, but I can't do it if I want to be able to go to college cheaply through a CSU. I guess I'll just have to suck it up hahaha
@AnnLeiSoCal 3 жыл бұрын
You are right ...and it's not just MN. I live in SoCal but also PDX and ppl in OR hate CA plates but funny thing there r so many more OR plates in SoCal. I drive a lot NV, AZ no problem ppl r pretty nice. So many ppl from CA live in those states. WA ppl seem nice though some have attitudes about ppl from CA. I personally find all this weird since my husband and I come from other states. Most ppl who live in CA are not born here. I think CA is a beast of an amazing state and it's intimidating to many. I just try to be extra nice.
@aWomanFreed 3 жыл бұрын
We know lots about your state....we all know California was the best state in the country, until u fools ruined it, so now you’re all fleeing in ur expensive vans expecting the rest of the country to embrace u and welcome u in to destroy everywhere else.
@topherjoe1 3 жыл бұрын
Hello, just found your channel. It was really interesting to hear your stories about your 1st six months, thank you for your honesty! I was raised with camping in forests, mostly in remote campgrounds, always close to mountains. When I got married, camping stopped in the woods but started in a boat. Ex didnt like forests. When child was 4 I started taking him out camping, was glorious, I missed the trees and child and I blossomed. After the divorce lol.....the bestie I met at preschool started camping with us, we had many adventures. We had a falling out 10 years later and I was camping on my own. I went out several times by myself but never had creepy issues EXCEPT in Naches Washington where I swear to god the vibe I got from one dispersed campsite was screaming GET OUT...it was beautiful, by a river, had tree shelter, a fire pit but....but...the hairs on the back of my neck were up and I felt intense fear. Moral of story, trust your gut and do not be ashamed of following it. I traveled an hour away from there and was the only one in a campground but it felt different and I stayed for a week. Travel on and be safe!
@consaka1 3 жыл бұрын
Oh man I feel so bad for you. I love the sound of the rain on the top of my van. It is sooo relaxing. Mostly because you could be stuck outside in it.
@hgj2019 3 жыл бұрын
When I was young I backpacked and tent camped exclusively. Didn’t own a camper of any sort. Didn’t really want one. In my 50’s I bought a pop up truck camper. The first time it rained when I was sleeping in it (and it was a cold, hard rain) I LOVED the sound of the rain. I turned the furnace thermostat up a little and smiled a giddy smile.😁
@consaka1 3 жыл бұрын
@@hgj2019 I know that feeling.
@CosmickGold 3 жыл бұрын
Wow! You pack so much information into your video; never a dull moment in the whole 30 minutes. I learned a lot about what van-travel is like from watching. One "lesson" answered why anyone would want to live in the desert, when there are beautiful green forests they could go to. I couldn't understand that until this video. But now I realize you -- and others -- are exactly opposite me. For me, vanning in the thick woods isn't "creepy". Instead, it's like the comfort of being wrapped in a secure warm blanket where no one but God and the fairies can find me. I love ii! I'm one-with-nature, and with life all around me. But on the other hand, the desert gives me the haunting feeling every moment I'm there, that I'm surely going to die of thirst once a relentless sun discovers and attacks me, baking every drop of moisture out of me! We're just OPPOSITES, Alice, in ways I never would have thought of. This vid has been so interesting to me, I'm going to watch all your videos during the coming days; your whole story starting with the first vid listed.
@waltermartin1542 3 жыл бұрын
How long did you have to go school to learn how to talk that fast. 66 years old and I hope you are happy.
@CosmickGold 3 жыл бұрын
@@waltermartin1542 73 years old and I AM happy, Walter; looking forward to VanLifing in the Cascade Mountains as a campsite host this summer. When applying, I was asked if I had any First Aid certificates. I don't, but that sounded like such a great idea -- a real need -- for those out in the wilderness. So I signed up for the $95 Wilderness First Aid course through Colorado University and am taking the class now online. As for how I learned to talk so fast? Well, in high school, touch-typing was my favorite subject. I loved it, so signed up for every class they offered. It's kinda stayed with me.
@creatingitonedayatatime 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you, Thank you, Thank you for sharing the mistakes and the good parts. I am so looking forward to van life in 18 months.
@quirkyblackenby 3 жыл бұрын
When people stare at you just stare back. Usually they’ll look away because they’re uncomfortable and they know staring is rude.
@mysurlytrucker7510 2 жыл бұрын
Or tell them the second word is of.
@valerief1231 3 жыл бұрын
Great video, it’s wonderful seeing a young female van lifer talking about what REALLY happens. I’m so over the “Instagram model” videos where I’m supposed to believe she doesn’t have any issues and everything is perfect, because at 22 years old, she’s a pro. Welp I’m gonna go out on a limb and while coughing call BS on any of those stories. I see a LOT of female can life videos and they are retirement age, on social security, forced into this life style by necessity rather then a calling. I’m glad they have Bob Wells to guide them in their journey, and Quartsite is the best place to be most of the time, lots of van dwellers there to help and see you succeed. Stay safe, and live the life you want right now, it’s the best thing to do.
@itsallaboutjesus8935 3 жыл бұрын
Also, what's the name of the group of young nomad people..."Escapers"??
@richardburguillos3118 3 жыл бұрын
Just subscribed... I remember coming across your channel as KZfaq thought I’d like it. Watched when the two of you were building the van and thought that was great... at least I think it was the two of you... now KZfaq shows me this video... I subscribed! Why, because your amazing! What an adventure! I was already subscribed to 30 and A Wake Up... What a courageous young woman. Fear is Ok and natural at times, but hearing the way you power through it and when you were on your own... Be proud... May you have a Safe, Amazing, Adventurous, and Happy New Year!
@pattenonlife483 3 жыл бұрын
I’m enjoying your videos very much. I love your raw honesty about Van life and finding your way. It gets me excited to finish up my van and start to travel. I love the fact that you don’t talk to slow or to quickly. Thank you for all of the work you put into things.
@metamorchoses 3 жыл бұрын
"we found out that we were only 8 hours to his family" this is so american (Loved the video btw thanks for sharing)
@BankruptGreek 3 жыл бұрын
European: ..so we crossed 2-3 countries and got to meet his family. edit: I checked it, it's 8 hours from the capital of Greece to the capital of Albania. From Croatia through Slovenia, Austria, Germany and ending in Switzerland, that's like an 8 hours trip.
@metamorchoses 3 жыл бұрын
@@BankruptGreek Crazy right! there's as much distance between LA and NYC than between Lisbon and Moscow
@deyadubai 3 жыл бұрын
@@BankruptGreek How about Russia, Siberia? We found out we are only short 8 hours away from next warm bath... Just joking... I fear cold dry winters in scarcely populated areas.... Hence, moved to live in an urbanised Middle Eastern desert 😉
@nonegiven3814 3 жыл бұрын
You can see the difference in perception of people from different areas. Coping skills will grow with more exposure to more challenging events. City kids so different than country kids.
@rachelhmeltzer 3 жыл бұрын
thank you so much for your honesty! makes my foray into vanlife and all of my fears feel normal!!
@Rumline7 3 жыл бұрын
I like how honest and open you are in telling your story. What a breath of fresh air! I don't get the fake clickbaity vibes from you that I do from pretty much every other van life vlogger. I appreciate this thoughtful retrospective. Your story is endearing and I wish the best for you in the future!
@golightly5121 3 жыл бұрын
Suggest if you don’t already have one, a dog harness that connects to a seat belt is the safest way for a pup to travel in a vehicle. My dog’s vet suggest it because she had heard and seen to many horrible stories.
@kingdomthings9887 3 жыл бұрын
Handling stressful situations "together" and doing it well, is a very valid relationship test. If a couple can't do that, the relationship won't last. Life can be stressful at times. We should be with someone, who we make a good team with. 😉
@Raquel6470 3 жыл бұрын
I love this video!!!! So real and raw! Good luck and happy travels! Be safe!
@bigtomsvan4817 3 жыл бұрын
Happy New Year 🎆 I'm so hooked on your videos. I love how you never stop thinking and talking. Keeps me sane. Thanks 😊
@evilunicornartinaction9490 3 жыл бұрын
This was amazing to hear. Thank you for sharing! I just bought my first short bus to transform and I’m so excited to start my own adventure soon! 🥰
@AskIveSolar 3 жыл бұрын
Yo, I listened to this entire video. This is my second video. I love hearing about how other people live and watch shows and such because of that. I enjoyed hearing about your travels. Wasn't even watching just listening. Well wishes to you on the road.
@tootruedesign6923 3 жыл бұрын
Awesome storytelling, you are so natural.. easy to watch n listen to. Thanks for sharing.
@davidsqvbcn 3 жыл бұрын
Mariah, happy new year to you and your beloved ones as well! I’m super glad you’ve realized this is your lifestyle, I look very much forward to your coming videos, your honesty really gets me 😃.
@Alicealexandra4 3 жыл бұрын
I think you’re the first person to say the perfect difference between van dwellers and van lifers. I’m definitely a van dweller in CA and you’re right, you can’t really Van life that many places here.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
They’re practically completely different lifestyles... it’s kinda crazy. I hope you’re staying safe & with some loved ones this crazy Cali Covid Christmas haha
@petern4651 3 жыл бұрын
I just discovered your channel. I love how sweet and innocent you are, but also how truthful you are about your experiences. These are life moments you will have forever. Good for you for expanding you dreams and pushing through the uncomfortable.
@MichaelSmith-cz4go 3 жыл бұрын
Merry Christmas to you and your love on. There is no mistake here. I wish you and Coleman the best Christmas ever.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you Michael! Happy holidays
@OutdoorTony95 3 жыл бұрын
Slow down. Literally. Relax more often. Stay 1 week in each place and plan....everything.
@lorismithokon9028 3 жыл бұрын
No offense. But its amazing to hear all the men telling women to relax. Please. Come live our lives.
@lefthome3191 3 жыл бұрын
@@lorismithokon9028 I second this comment!
@tjrothausen 3 жыл бұрын
@@lefthome3191 me too!!! :-))
@lmiller1413 3 жыл бұрын
@@lefthome3191 You know we are going to get some push back about this comment! Thank you for your support!
@lmiller1413 3 жыл бұрын
@@tjrothausen Thank you!
@VinesThroughTime 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this video. You are quickly becoming my favorite vanlifer. Keep being you. We are watching you grow, and we can all learn from that.
@randymortensen9938 3 жыл бұрын
I found your channel a couple weeks ago (probably around when you uploaded this video) and find it interesting and pretty neat. I like this recap video of your travels, where you went, and the highs and lows. Nice touch with using the map.
@piplup10203854 3 жыл бұрын
I’m a big van of isolation so for me I would be more than good being off in the woods or in the desert or basically anywhere I can enjoy my own solitude. I don’t know if that’s just a me thing but i feel most connected to the world when it’s just me and my thoughts.
@susans7091 3 жыл бұрын
I love the woods!!!! About my favorite place to stay. I am 74! Wow, it sounds like you are talking on a speeded up CD. Travel for cooler weather is not just seasonal, it is altitude. It's cooler higher up. You keep thinking that the next place you are going to will be perfect, and then you don't like it and 'freak out' again. Wherever you go there you are. So glad you are getting more comfortable :)
@rcpmac 3 жыл бұрын
Coleman: ”that’s Sasquatch” Me: Subscribed
@tikitiki7610 3 жыл бұрын
you are an awesome young woman! thank you for all your info. keep it up. will be in my van on the road in a couple three weeks.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
I absolutely will!! I’m excited for you! ❤️❤️
@Hislittlelamb 3 жыл бұрын
Wow! You are so brave! Continuing alone after months of hard learned lessons on the road together took courage, confidence & determination. I really appreciate your honesty & depth, like a Philosopher. I started watching you as I explore the possibility of van life for myself, I’ve subscribed and continued watching mostly to hear your thoughts.
@designdoctor247 3 жыл бұрын
This was VERY interesting, informative and helpful! Thank you for sharing the mistakes...everyone seems to only share the good, beautiful, perfect.
@mantonmark 3 жыл бұрын
Wow I loved your pros and cons of your travels. It is exactly what I needed to hear..... all the things you did wrong and the things you did right. Keep them coming because it is truly valuable information. So sorry to hear that you and Coleman aren't meant to share the vanlife together. At least you realized it and accepted it instead of forcing the issue. So he's ok with you traveling by yourself?? I also loved your take on how you came to realize that you like having other vanlifers around. I am exactly the same way, I wouldn't think of going off out into the wilderness alone. The thought creeps me out, and I'm a 65 year old man. lol Anyway continued success in your travels and the best of luck.
@Snarge22 3 жыл бұрын
Learning Curve !!!!!! Thanks for sharing Mariah. The knowledge pain you (and others) go through is helping those like me who will, in time, be in a van. I've been taking notes for a good eight months or more now and experiences like yours will save me some future stress. PS: For both Oregon and Washington, staying east of the Cascade Mountain range will get you forests that are much less dense.
@CandycaneBeyond 3 жыл бұрын
I think the term your looking for is "Chasing 70" snowbirds like to be in mild weather. They go back and forth between states for the optimal temperature.
@Bear-cm1vl 3 жыл бұрын
In the US, you can achieve much better results in the Rocky Mountains or the Appalachian Mountains by going up to achieve cooler temperatures, saving a lot of fuel. You may have to travel up 100-200 ft in elevation to achieve the same temperature changes as 1000 miles of flat travel.
@CandycaneBeyond 3 жыл бұрын
@@Bear-cm1vl too bad I get altitude sickness
@gabss2618 3 жыл бұрын
@@Bear-cm1vl thanks for the tip
@okeythomas8001 3 жыл бұрын
Raw ,funny and real you have so much in your offerings thats a good view of lifestyle change growth expanded interactions good job well done. :)
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Awe; thank you!! ❤️
@jill_ontheroad 3 жыл бұрын
You have a lot of good specific tips and what-not-to-dos in this video which I appreciate. Just starting vanlife myself but haven’t had any major issues yet!
@jentommyontheroad8089 3 жыл бұрын
Merry Christmas to you and your family! Looking forward to seeing what the surprise is! Working on my van today (sound deadening & insulation) while it’s a bit warmer and I’m on winter break. So sorry about the lion! I often drive at night (cooler and less traffic) but have hit a few rabbits along the way. I cry for miles any time I hit something!
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Happy holidays Jen! I hope you're spending them with some loved ones. Hitting animals is never, ever fun. I've never hit such a large animal before, I think it rocked me to my bones...
@wendyb3038 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing the good, the bad..I normally don’t watch longer videos but I watched all to the end!! I’m going to check out your other videos!! Keep posting..thx
@krystalwhite675 3 жыл бұрын
I live in Canada and I hope some time in the next year or so when I get a van that I will be able to do so In the states. The seasonal thing is actually what would freak me out to! The US has way bigger weather issue like golf ball size hail,tornados, much much bigger rain storm then we do here. I haven’t done much research but I can only imagine how on earth I go about trying to travel and stay away from all the dangerous stuff. Stay safe dude and happy new year 😃😃😃
@lumoworkscompany2187 3 жыл бұрын
Really enjoyed your video so much. Learned a lot and LOVE how fact you talk, so awesome. Faster talkers keep my interest so much better. 👍🏼👍🏼🤍
@j.hankinson7803 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for posting and for your honesty. You’ve learned so much (and lots the hard way) and seem to have a better grasp on what it is you want. Not all a bed of roses as they say but you got to see much more than if sitting and moping in California...
@travelingwiththeresa2337 3 жыл бұрын
I’m so glad this video was in my suggestion list! I also started the vanlife (well, carlife lol) in May. And I had nooooo idea what I was getting myself into! Many mistakes or I should say lessons 😉 but now I know what I like and looking forward to more adventures. I’m realizing how many ways of traveling there is, everyone has there own way about it. Oh and I’m still learning about the seasonal travel too! Subscribed 😍
@Yannispawn 3 жыл бұрын
Just found your channel. Loving your videos! You’re a brave young lady in my opinion! Keep up the great work. 🤗
@ThePlantPoweredRunner 3 жыл бұрын
What a great video!! Man did you learn so much. New Sub! Cheers from 🇨🇦
@hughwhisted9414 3 жыл бұрын
Loved it when you started talking about Montana. Good luck to you!
@beckyparson1636 3 жыл бұрын
Yay! Mariah’s map stories are back.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Yes, I do rather like them.... I gotta buy a new map though haha
@JefeDow 3 жыл бұрын
Suggestion: get a new map, laminate it, use dry-erase markers on it, photograph it (for your travel journal), then erase and repeat as often as you wish! 😄👍 Great stories, thanks for sharing.
@Justin-jp6jh 3 жыл бұрын
Awesome Video and super informative. I usually can make it through a whole "vanlife" video but this was great! My wife and I are a month into being full-time after spending all of the last summer converting our Promaster in our driveway! We definitely have been smacked in the face with some harsh realities and mistakes ourselves already but I definitely picked up a few things from you here so thanks! Subscribed :)
@SebastianTobiasz 3 жыл бұрын
Her story is incredible but listening to her makes me want to consider boat life. You can anchor almost anywhere you want, it's pretty safe and doesn't have 90% of the issues that she had
@Xiallaci 3 жыл бұрын
It has issues of its own though. One main theme was going without a plan. with a boat that can be fatal. Imo the biggest issue is jumping into van life without any plan at all...
@cnswanson7207 2 жыл бұрын
What do you think a boat costs????? Srsly?
@aHart4Him 3 жыл бұрын
As a van life dreamer (maybe someday....?) I enjoyed your video & how you shared your honest experience. I look forward to more videos!
@crastotler8853 3 жыл бұрын
You are awesome, love your videos, like the sunsets the mountains the scenery, hope that you achieve what you set out to do, take care and have a very Merry Christmas
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you! I hope so too. I hope you have a safe & happy Christmas season as well ❤️
@Lindasromperroom 3 жыл бұрын
Welcome to Az! I hope the weather is great for you!
@kenwatson7815 3 жыл бұрын
Perfect narration, kept me captivated, loved it. Happy future traveling, you've just collected another subscriber from Australia
@masonthurman 3 жыл бұрын
So helpful! I'm starting my 3ish month journey in about two weeks. I've been worried about the heat in the Southwest but I'm willing to stay at some hotels and hostels when I need to. Utah is a must but after seeing this, I may head north after SLC to Yellowstone instead of Colorado.
@gabss2618 3 жыл бұрын
Just found your channel and thank you for being so so open about your experience
@combikorting 3 жыл бұрын
you can put so many words in a given time, you're funny! btw like your singing 24:17
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Hahaha thank you!! I was allll hyped up in this video for some reason 😂
@waltermartin1542 3 жыл бұрын
Maybe you have lots of good methamphetamine...good dope.
@chainedaddiction 3 жыл бұрын
Informative! I am a Native Northern Californian going to Ukraine in June 21 with 2 cats. I plan to buy a used van to convert and van life in Eastern Europe for a few years. Cheers, Alex
@psychicdriver4229 3 жыл бұрын
Two cats! Yikes... mine freak out as soon as the van starts to roll!
@chrisholmstrom624 3 жыл бұрын
Avoid Oklahoma during the summer. It'll redefine humid for you. Also north half of Texas to Nebraska is tornado alley (spring thru summer). Kansas is VERY windy. Don't know about free camping but there are several nice lakes in Missouri (Lake of the Ozarks & Tablerock Lake).
@lostman65 3 жыл бұрын
these story-time videos are very entertaining and educational! 😂 awesome video!!
@lbuck1139 3 жыл бұрын
Always do you no matter what. Happy holidays and cant wait for more videos.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
I absolutely always will. Happy holidays!!
@bkanegson 3 жыл бұрын
Look at the bright side.... You wished many times for a "beater" and now you've got one :-) Sorry, could not resist.
@lindahritz249 3 жыл бұрын
It took me a while to learn that dents are fine. A new van will last longer mechanically and worth keeping.
@itsallaboutjesus8935 3 жыл бұрын
Be careful what you ask for and don't worship possessions.
@johncomerford4648 3 жыл бұрын
I owned a Ford Transit Beater! Believe me, you do not want a BEATER! Brokedown all the time, cost me a fortune
@joywest33 3 жыл бұрын
Lol! Yep, every time I take my van on a forest road and the bushes and trees scrape along it I always tell myself I’m making a pinstripes suit for it .
@robkoons2100 2 жыл бұрын
I missed this when you posted it but this is the best video I believe you ever made! I seriously believe you need to write a book! I believe it would have a shot at hitting the NYT bestseller list!
@Lizarddqueen79 3 жыл бұрын
I love Sedona! ❤ it is magical there.
@JuliaBrooke 3 жыл бұрын
Hey girl! I noticed you talking about rather having a 'beater' van, and as someone who has a 1982 Chevy van all I can say is mechanical issues are reallllll tough! (Luckily I have a bf who is a mechanic so it's not the end of the world) but sometimes it feels like one problem after the next. I think that for a solo female it is a really wise choice that you went with a mechanically sound good condition vehicle for your build. Can't wait to see more videos from you!! ❤️
@lefthome3191 3 жыл бұрын
Absolutely! you want a reliable machine. All the here-there-and-everywhere would have been REALLY hard if you had to be fixing the van all the time. I suppose you really just wanted a crummy-looking van, but mechanically sound.
@jeanroeder5534 2 жыл бұрын
🚐 Of all the van lifers I watch I love your openness and honesty, enjoying your videos Happy travels to you 🚐
@justinming1229 2 жыл бұрын
You’re a good story teller, I actually enjoyed that!…I live on the MT/ND boarder. I’ve also lived in the Portland Oregon. Two completely different subcultures. It’s so true what you said about the northern Midwest being more of an rv place and giving dirty looks to out of staters, who are out of the ordinary.
@goodlife7012 2 жыл бұрын
"Where you would Totally Believe in Sasquatch" - LOL! @ 3:20. You made my day!
@k1u0 3 жыл бұрын
Dude, I feel for you on the dog cleanup. Had a similar situation. 2 Dogs sleep in the back of the truck in a camper top. One got sick and pooped everywhere and I had nothing to clean it with ended up having to toss all her bedding. Then on the way home she puked all over the back seat and the other dog, huge mess. Had to pull over every 10 miles or so so she could puke it out. That's one of those things traveling you don't think about. We'll always be prepared for it in the future though.
@CarolynnMc01 Жыл бұрын
I caught your video today, Sept 2022. It's great you figured out your comfort zone. It sounds like you took a lot of twists and turns in your travels, but you've finally made some comfortable discoveries (that's fantastic!). Just a note -- a friend and I were in Northern Cali and Southern Oregon with our two (large) dogs. . We were doing some camping. She found this free campground in South Oregon and as we were entering the area. I was freaking out. Beer cans all over the place and all we had was a tent. It was desolate, gobs of trees and brush. I told her I wasn't camping there! She insisted, and it was scary as hell. Thankfully it started raining in torrents and we had to leave and stayed at a Bed and Breakfast for the night. Luck was with me. I feel the fear. It just didn't seem safe at all. I wish you all the best there is! If i were way younger, I'd choose van life, too. I'm a big fan. blessings sent!
@buckbuchanan5849 3 жыл бұрын
Enjoyed hearing of your experiences! Thanks!
@itsmisspti 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing all of this. I found it all so interesting, you always see the pros of vanlife (and there are so many) but you don’t often get the cons/mistakes on the road that are part of the journey as well! Idk why but all the trees & the Sasquatch thing sounded kind of appealing to me lmao. To each there own I guess haha 🙂♥️
@itsallaboutjesus8935 3 жыл бұрын
BTW, great stories of adversities & you overcame them all. I'm sure since you were broken in "the hard way" you probably have a much greater level of confidence. Happy travels & stay safe!
@jimwlouavl 3 жыл бұрын
I was happy at the end when you said you were starting to find your groove.
@BreezeMHill 3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. I watch a lot of these videos and after a while you stop hearing new things but you gave me 2 valuable pieces of info that I didnt think about before. 1. A cover for hale. 2. Stay away from blue green algae.
@itsallaboutjesus8935 3 жыл бұрын
I agree. I don't have rooftop solar panels yet (& kinda thankful I don't after hearing her stories); and I have NEVER heard anything about the algea. It's not as relevant for me since I won't be traveling with pets. But I do wonder if it's harmful to people?🤔
@leerfarmer 2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much, for sharing the free campsite website. It is neat and I will be using it in the future, when I eventually get out on the road. Neat video, thanks for sharing
@petepete4952 3 жыл бұрын
F yeah! Good for you, girl! Live your life! No regrets, baby! Respect👊
@consaka1 3 жыл бұрын
Man I look for wooded areas. Any area hidden away a bit is good. The less people the better. If I could build a cabin in the midst of giant redwoods I would. Nothing better than the sound of the wind sighing through the tree tops.
@myvanlife6391 3 жыл бұрын
Just so you know for future reference, solar panels are made to withstand hail unless it is massive, if that will make you feel any better :)
@joemcdonough2765 3 жыл бұрын
Rule #1 :: one person - one vehicle. No exceptions. That way everyone gets to do what they want.
@boskostoybox 3 жыл бұрын
^ One dog
@beehivee.... 3 жыл бұрын
@@boskostoybox yes 😂
@paulbaker3144 3 жыл бұрын
Rule 2: Don’t drive at night. Unless it’s a true emergency. A deer can put the fan through the radiator. A elk can total your rig. Imagine a moose. Yikes!
@seadog2396 3 жыл бұрын
You are Sooo Right regarding Rule #1.
@0xaliciaaa 3 жыл бұрын
one person one vehicle?? like no couples? ..
@k1ghz960 3 жыл бұрын
You tell a good story. I usually don't last through the whole thing unless it's short but with you it's ok. I vanned around America then Europe for a few years then came back and went to college while van living. Makes no sense to pay rent in college when you don't have to. Anyway you remind me of myself so thank you much.
@Ms13cats 3 жыл бұрын
My heart goes out to you, for what you have been through, at the same time as I am filled with GRATITUDE, for you sharing every detail you did of your story -you're on a journey to your center...and that is hell and...well maybe more hell interspersed with what all good happens..little laugh. This was so much what I needed to hear - - you are so like me..I think trees are creepy too, never heard anyone else make words for that feeling so ty for that. I have not discovered myself..but it looks like I'm working on it at home. Going out like you did I think you got the rush job on it. But it all happens like it has to huh? :-/ :-) :-/ I love where you are and where you will go yet...b/c only you know when the journey seems to land somewhere.. oh my goodness love & hugs to you, and yes then well, some more love & hugs to you. Thank you so Much for sharing. This and your first video wow really taught me a LOT.
@consaka1 3 жыл бұрын
Hail and Tornados. Wyoming has some nice things to see but only when the wind quits blowing.
@davidgodley521 3 жыл бұрын
I've been living in my Ford Transit van for ten months. You can get all terrain tires to help with off roading. if I stay in a city then I feel safe in a truck stop. They never close. I was a trucker for twenty five years. By the way, the pacific northwest is bigfoot country.
@deyadubai 3 жыл бұрын
You don't forget your firsts.... And the freedom to admit mistakes... Subscribed and you guys keep on!!!
@nclare7 3 жыл бұрын
I was so confused about the lion! We have mountain lions all down the east coast too, but we call them mountain lions. LOL! Great video Mariah. I'm getting so many great tips from you and I'm definitely taking notes. Thanks for all the honesty. Safe travels.
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
I still have no idea why I called it a lion 🙃
@sombongi 3 жыл бұрын
The whole time I was picturing a lion like the ones in Africa.
@robertplutz8221 3 жыл бұрын
More great info! Thanks a bunch!
@mnmtrpin2793 3 жыл бұрын
Great Work! As a mere male. I found it inspiring. We are setting up a 4 wheel drive to see more of Australia & like you we love the dry open areas. Many Thanks for sharing your experience & wisdom. We have learnt to go with our vibes. Why stay where you are uncomfortable?
@mr.dennisalvarez9523 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for your openness
@georgehouse4747 3 жыл бұрын
Just found your page..ya seem like a Awesome Person.. Am just just starting the Van life.. hopefully I will learn from you..
@dwllers 2 жыл бұрын
If you think about it the experience was still an experience and you got to see so many cool places in such a small amount of time. super cool stay safe please!!!!
@yrpb81499 3 жыл бұрын
Obviously at first you were not campers or ready for van life. Camping away from people in the woods is what camping is. Weather app is your friend , follow the good weather. Sounds like a caravan life would be better for you to feel safer. Hated the first part of your video but glad I watch to the end. Sounds like the southwest is the place for you and you are starting to embrace the lifestyle, and more open to change. Suggestion , slow down and embrace what each place has to offer. As you found out at the end of your video, other campers are a wealth of info and suggestions, little planning, and go with the flow. Happy camping
@davewallace718 3 жыл бұрын
Adventuring can be fun, intimidating, exciting, spooky and exillerating all at once. It can even be boring and lonely at times. But one thing is certain, you never know what the day (or night) will send your way. Most fun is just winging it without all the web sites to direct you. Home is where your van takes you. Nice to see you doing all the above 😊
@davewallace718 3 жыл бұрын
Ps: Great that you are sharing your storys on such a marvelous journey. Many people wish they could see the places you are seeing and by the way, yes ... Moab is to be avoided in July ... LoL great video 😁 If you ever do that again, take the loop up in the LeSal mountain area. Great free camping and temps hover in the mid 70's ;)
@mistysedillo1696 3 жыл бұрын
Bandon is beautiful, my father lived there. I grew up in Pacific Northwest and it is beautiful! You have to spend time there in the summer though!
@MariahAlice 3 жыл бұрын
Bandon is one of my favorites... and yeah I have to redo the PNW now that I have a better grasp on this whole van life thing haha
@FlowStateTrend 3 жыл бұрын
Thank you sharing! You should be proud of yourself. Way to go.
@tammyeckert4438 3 жыл бұрын
Kid, you are cracking me up! I love your sincerity. I love your spirit of adventure at such a young age. You have fears, but keep on going. Keep it up, kid! Keep getting out there! Be your own person! It will make you stronger than you know :)
@aleisterlowenstein9526 2 жыл бұрын
The greatest thing when your young is being called "kid" I never tune anyone out after hearing kid.
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