It’s important to remember that almost all those points still apply living in a regular house, you’re still paying astronomical prices for groceries and fuel and power and heat but you still pay 2K a month for rent minimum most places.

I got into vanlife after con vid 1984 destroyed my small business. 5 years of hard work down the tiolet. I'd seen a few vanlife videos on YT (including this channel) and I thought that's it, I'm gonna convert my van. That was September 2021. I folded my business January 2022 and started the conversion. No experience doing this before. Now, the van is nearly finished. Should get it done in the next few months. I'm gonna head over to Europe (I'm based in UK) do some fruit picking and head East. See where things take me... :) Also, I quit smoking 1st November 2021 to help afford vanlife. That was one of the best decisions I've made! :)

I noticed my neighbor had not driven this van for 2 years. I went over and asked him if he was selling it. He wasn't planning to, and had no idea what vanlife was, he asked $6500, I got him down to 6k. Best thing I ever bought! You never know where your van could come from.

Don’t get discouraged. There are alternatives. That fan may be $400 now but there are others highly rated on Amazon starting at $137. You may have to move away from traditional brands but the possibilities are there. And definitely cheaper than rent. You may travel less to save on gas, you may substitute products, go to free places to park, yes, but there are solutions. You were very brave when you started and I admire what you did 👏🏼. Don’t despair. Keep those videos coming 👍🏼

I think van life is still affordable bc the rent prices for apartments have gone thru the roof. The other point is to do as much of the conversion as U can yourself.

You're not going to talk me out of it now! Im half way through my build :)

Cruz snoring away was priceless. 🐶

The reason I started following your channel was your heart. It’s so refreshing to find people that genuinely care about others. Thankful for you and the way you reach others.

I believe the real desire is to stop paying rent/mortgage and being able to drive where you want when you want doing what you want.... after quitting the job....who else is with me?

Here's the part you might not have thought of in this. I bought my van 4 years ago March 15 for around $3k. Now? Four years later? Sure thing I could be a van like this, for probably $20k or more. However in that same period of time rents for apartments and Mortgages for houses increased by 4x or more too. So my old apartment that I was being screwed out of $600 an month is more that $2400 a month. So yes, vanlife - getting started in it - buying parts for it - everything got so much more expensive. But it's still dramatically cheaper than anything else, anywhere else. And I wish that wasn't the truth, the reality we live in, but it is. Here's something for you to consider. Mexico is dramatically cracking down on the border now. Not to keep people in, to North Americans OUT!!! They are starting to actively deport and ban Americans from entering Mexico. Know why? They are buying up places, driving up the costs of housing, pushing Mexican people out of cities, because Americans are living in Mexico and commuting, or remote working in America, but still retrying the economy of Mexico. Think about that. Really think about it. The greed and insanity is endemic in North America and spreading like a cancer. So Vanlife is still cheaper than sticks and bricks. We have a thriving and growing Nomadic Community here in the US and every year there are huge events in the desert southwest for nomads where we get together and help each other out anyway we can. There are even non profit organizations like the Homes On Wheels Alliance whose entire reason for existing is to help people embrace Nomadic life. They even give away vans, trailers, campers, even tents to those in need who have been displaced by the insanity and unchecked GREED in this country.

Honestly believed van life wasn't possible anymore. Then remembered how you did it, starting small and building as you went...so got a cheap Dodge Caravan, a cot, couple of containers for Misc things, and going to start once the weather warms up! Following the path you've laid (slightly modified to be "cheaper"), thank you! You're an inspiration!

Hello Chrome, I'm currently building out my van and yes it is expensive but I've found that I need to be creative and look at a lot of different options before I act on something. However, it just makes the journey more purposeful and a fun challenge. Thanks for the insight! And thank you for the friendship.

I’m in process of building out. The bulk of my budget went to my van. I’m not buying new materials for my build. For example I wanted pine for my walls so I’ve repurposed the wood from a couple very large pine wood hutches, bookshelves, and tables that I got for free from marketplace. I also got a used max air fan from a RV at a salvage yard for $25.

I retired last year. In my mind I wonder from time to time when expenses will outstrip my monthly income. People who retired with $1500 social security 15/20 years ago thinking it was enough, many are struggling now in their late old age.

Everything is expensive in Canada now. I moved back to Southern Alberta six months ago after living in Korea for 4 years. I was considering van life, but even that was beyond my financial ability and getting my own place was pretty much impossible. I ended up staying with my parents for the first time in over a decade and eventually realized that trying to make a go of it back home just isn't worth it now. I'm going back to Korea next month so I can actually live a life. I'm saddened for the state of my home country.

My life includes a van and a small house. One supports the other. Cheers Chrome and Cruz!

I currently use plastic Milk Crates for a bed frame and the crates are excellent for storage. An excellent resource for now and gently used Building, electrical, and other supplies in the U.S. Is the Habitat for Humanity Restore stores.

That's why I like the no builds, easy and maintainable

Everything is expensive these days. Don't matter where yah are or what yah do.. 💞

Most of the things you mentioned that went up in price also went up in price for people not living in a van. (grocieries, wood, …)

Darlin' EVERYTHING is ridiculous these days. On a fixed income, whether you're moving or not, we all are drowning.

The cost of van living is still LOWER than renting an apartment. Of course, if you buy a new expensive van it will cost you. Believe me, I'm a Realtor in NY, rentals are sky high. The cost of food and transportation is what it is. You have to eat if you work you probably have to commute to it...A 1 br in my area rent is an average of $2000 and up (US price). There are also up front costs to renting i.e. 1st month rent, last month rent, security deposit (equal to a full month rent) credit check and agent fee if applicable. You could be looking at 6K and up just to move in. Then you have to furnish it and you still have to eat! The cost of living is going up, a tiny home on wheels is still more cost effective....it doesn't build equity but neither does renting.

Hi Chrome, we love watching and listening to you all the way from New Zealand. My husband and I have been living the bus life for many years now. Like you for financial reasons beyond our control. Short story, had the bus 20 years, lived in it for the last 10, stopped us going bankrupt. Haven't travelled much, worked the last 15 years, 7 days a week to clear our debts, which we have now done. Here in New Zealand we are feeling those same price rises that you are in Canada but seem to be copping ok with it. Bus/Van life is still the better option, power is free via solar, cell phones are so much cheaper than land lines if you don't want the latest and greatest technology. Best of all we are so much healthier with this life style and have a fantastic on road community that we never had when living in a house. Take care, give Cruise a cuddle for us (we have Boxers, a very close relation to the English Bulldog) Denise and Neil NZ

The life style maybe getting more expensive but so is everything else it’s all in perspective

I've done this for about 7 years and I've always stayed in a minivan. 8 during that time of all different makes. The most I ever paid was $2400 Canadian and generally less than 2000. Plus I bought a few other vans fixed them and flipped them. All were about 20 years old. I like the older ones cuz the seats can be taken out and thrown away. I recommend Firstly Toyota Sienna 98 to 03 and secondly Grand Caravans. One more tip. Don't try to make a house. Instead think in terms of systems, functionality

I think it's about living life on our own terms as well. And simplifying. I'm working on a buildout in my 5 x 8 cargo trailer. It's a LOT of work, but it's satisfying work when you see your dream materialize. I'm 62 and hopefully three years away from retirement. I just want to do this because...well, just because.

Everything is going 👆 up no matter your life .....

Life is getting super expensive regardless of where u live

I drove for uber for about 7 years, but I haven't driven in several months. I've been busy turning my 2015 toyota prius into man's rolling cave. It's almost complete and ready to show it on KZfaq. Maybe you might want to check it out too, I'll let you know. Thanks for your channel Chrome, I watch it all the time

Thank you for the informative talk, Chrome. I bought a van 2 yrs ago and then got interested in van life. It needs work, but I'm on social security as I'm over 65 and disabled. I plan to get it ready over the next few months for the road. I appreciate all the helpful tips you give. Love you and Crusie!

sadly I'm still paycheck to paycheck after almost 2years in my van due to finishing my build while living in it and then doing mechanical repairs to set it up for some travels to find my final destination area to live till my heart failure kills me

Chrome you got me in to van life and I'm now travelling the UK and working on building sites. I love van life I just wish I had made the jump sooner 👍👍

It's cheaper than renting a studio apartment. Food is getting so expensive, I've gone to eating one meal a day... better for my health. Safe travels Chrome!

Keep up the great videos chrome ! & although this lifestyle might be getting more expensive don’t let that discourage you ! You’ve inspired us all in our own ways to create and live the lifestyle we choose and I feel it isn’t about the cost put in, you could have a thousand dollar build or hundred dollar build it’s the passion we feel that’s more valuable, and which you’ve helped inspire !

I'm going full time in my tiny van (UK) from next week, rents and bills are going up so much and I'm sick of working 24/7 just to pay out.

been watching your videos for a while not compared to what i done your in a mansion !!! 1 travelled Europe with my dog in a BMW 335d e92 coupe lol loads of times i slept on the back seat !! with a big plastic thing in the middle of the seat lolol you know cup holders lol its a 4 seater lol 6000 miles but i'll tell you what a amazing experience

Hi Chrome. Great convo today... everything is so expensive! You are one of the few people me and my family enjoy watching. Even with the reality check today you still have a positive spin and an energy that doesn't pull us down. Thank you. Love that you are truly family friendly to watch. We cheer you and Cruz on. Love watching the build, and cringed with you on the rust the other day... Thanks so much for the positive vibe.

Hi there, great video! We live in an abundant universe, all is well :) Be easy and enjoy your journey :) Being positive and grateful goes a longgggg way :)

So if the cost of normal life is double then Van Life is still cheaper. Gasoline and food are up. But so are utilities. Everything is much higher. It never stops going up.

You have come along way broski! I remember your first video !!!

Cheaper than a mortgage and property taxes I think, anything is only as expensive as you make it

Yep so true! Crazy prices for gas, food, rent, mortgage etc.. Ayoye! Insane! But nothings gonna stop my 20 year dream!

It’s all relative. Food is the same if you van or sticks and bricks. Housing is expensive. Taxes are a killer, insurance is hell, and maintenance is costly if you can’t do it yourself. So everything has gone up except wages. So a van is still the best. I got extremely lucky and bought my 04 Econoline for $500! It’s worth way more, that I know. Groceries down here in Mexico are real expensive too. Nothing is cheap anymore, and that is tragic. All the best! Bryan from Vancouver

Much needed and transparent video. I was thinking the SAME thing. Between gas prices and finding a safe, cheap place to park things must be getting hard for so many that may not be as fortunate.

Im in Australia and getting close to similar situation here😕. But when my gran passed away last year, I was lucky enough to be able to pay off debts and buy an old ambulance.... got her this week!! Now have to find a job to get a basic build in

I'm not a van dweller but your videos have been incredible yesterday and today!

I was heading into van life since 2016. I was sure I’d be living in a van by 2019. I quit the plan in 2020 because I needed to take care my mother so I used van life $ to buy a place instead of renting. This year I am slowly getting my suv prepared to do a few days of car camping here and there. When it’s time to replace my car 5/10 years down the road, I’d get a city cargo van to be more comfortable car camping.

everything is terrible everywhere; being a senior the cost of living is literally killing my husband and I. What we would give to have a life such as yours. Our monthly expenses just to keep a roof over our heads is becoming so difficult .

Another brilliant video Chrome. More super-relatable content. One thing to remember is that renters pay the same price for groceries as van dwellers do - so you’re not worse off in a van. And those high interest van repayments went towards paying off *your* home, not someone else’s. And for a lot of people, fuel prices won’t increase by much (unless their new home uses a *lot* more fuel than their old vehicle did). They’ll be driving the same distance as they always have. So, although the nett cost of living is higher than when you started van life, it’s no higher relative to renting an appartment. 😉👍

*There is a hole in the floormat* 15:59 of the rust and paint video. 👍

Yep! I'm a Disabled Army Veteran, living in SoCal. A dozen eggs are $8.50 -$9.50 for 18 eggs U.S. I live in a med size town 100 miles from L.A.

Thank you Chrome.

its crazy how the prices went up ... but still cheaper than a rent...

We are being price gouged around every corner for vans and sticks&bricks. Rent is even worse. Necessity is the mother of invention. It requires one to become creative. Moving less often helps. I have a friend that is in the back country and stays a few weeks, hiking and taking her camera to video all of its beauty. Chrome, the big thing is to follow your dreams and live life in moments. The present is the only place we can effect change. Keep the videos coming. You inspire those that watch.

I's nice to hear some honesty instead of saying what people want to hear.

We just gave our notice,🙏 and I feel such a sense of freedom. Yes, it’s expensive but it is forcing us to be creative and using things we already have for the build.

I had to laugh when I heard Cruzie snoring earlier while you were talking. I thought it was my pup who is laying next to me.

I'm so thankful for my Van! Yeah I want a bigger better set up for several reasons but we are making it ❤️ BLESSED

Great video.... did you know that you can flat mount the dish... and leave it up on the roof... Search Starlink flat mount kit... Which will also allow driving and internet service... I used a magnet to keep the side wings of the Colman stove from rattling

Van life is still affordable, it all depends on your standard of living. For those people who are doing this because of finances, they live very simply in a van. Check out Bob Wells Channel called cheap RV living. I'm sure you have heard or watch his channels but he shows how those who are really strapped financially can do it

Whew!!!!! Thought you were doing "something else" at 21:31 !! I had to double-take that part! LOL!!!! STAY WEIRD!!!!

I've seen how eggs are very expensive. I am so sorry that it's so hard on all you vanlifers. They should have services or at least something that accommodates for vanlifers. I hope that all of you make it. You're very wonderful people and you deserve the best.

Might need more sedan living videos soon. DIY no build conversions. Most people cant afford new cars let alone vans or trucks.

I’m starting with a van that my friend isn’t using anymore. This man is preaching to us guys that are in a similar financial situation

Dig all your videos & advise you give chrome👍

I’m so glad I started my van build when I did. Nothing crazy ford transit connect. But I got the essentials just before prices got jacked up. Vent, flooring, etc.

Hi Chrome, really enjoy your KZfaq videos! I think I saw everything from start to present. Thank you for your travels in your cool cozy Van home!!

Hi Chrome I went shopping 🛍, and I was shocked at what I paid for a few things. I think we're all going through it with how expensive everything is. Hang in there. Cruzie is just waiting to snuggle up for Netflix. Stay warm, and safe travels.

Amazon has a lot of items nowadays that cost a lot more than going down to the store…not sure why that changed.

I think you may have single handedly drove up the price of Vans and accessories with your channel dude lol

I've lived in a mobile home for over 30 years but recently the lot rent had been increasing like crazy. It's increased over 50% in the last 6 years ago. I just retired and can't imagine staying until I can nolonger afford the rent and lose the home that I own. I need to have some repairs made and I'm hoping that I can sell it for enough to get a van. I couldn't afford to rent an apartment with the amount I receive on social security so I don't have many options. I want to be able to travel. I've never had the opportunity before.

Because everyone and his dog(no pun intended) is doing van life, everything related to it has gone through the roof.

Honestly its all about the Dog... Love him.... makes it all worth while.

Chrome here on Long Island rent is 1500.00 to 3000.00 ..a month…Every 2 year’s of paying rent is about as much as buying a new 🚗

In the UK it's getting more and more difficult to find a spot to park with a high top/long wheel base van, so I end up renting on a farm or a park... and the prices have gone up to eye watering prices. The fuel prices are way too high and the fuel stations are becoming like banks and post offices of late - disappearing at an alarming rate. At least for the moment, I have a roof over my head and am warm in this freezing weather.

It's still better than paying rent and as far as upgrades, builds, it may take longer but I like my home on wheels and I don't want to be stuck in one place. Ive also found work in different areas, go where the higher paying work is. A lot of places will sell stuff on credit card installments, not something we could do a few years ago. As far as groceries I go for the basics, potatoes, cabbage, beans, rice, keep it simple, stay away from processed foods. Im super glad I got enough solar to run an instant pot, cooking beans from scratch, cooking rice. I started off in a POS van and learned what I wanted. When I moved in a nice big van, it's like you said it felt like a palace. It's nowhere near finished. Took over 3 years to get plumbing in here, it is coming together, with time.

Chrome, you are the best! Thank you 🙏🏽 so much for this -🔥 non - fire side chat. It meant and means a lot to us, whether van lifers or not. Thnx! 😄

Dumpster-diving for groceries is getting popular again and they're getting a lot of perfectly fresh stuff that groceries throw out long before it spoils!

I bought an 87 GMC class C that had 72k miles, that I striped, cuz it was fallin apart, paid $1000. Than bought a 85 GMC step van, paid $750. Swapped the drive train, and sold unwanted parts, got $900. Then found the same step van in a junkyard and cut off the box, closed the front, put a trailer axle under it, and now 2yrs later my mini home..with attached garage is almost done. I have a nice lowrider (94 Chevy PU)and a H-D Softail to sell. Hope ta be on the road this fall. Stay safe. ✌

All so sad😤😭😟! Thanks for the reality...it sucks but THANK YOU❣❣

Unfortunately I live in one of the most expensive parts of the country because of my job. Where I live, a 1 bedroom apartment averages around $2300/month on top of electric, water, gas, monthly parking fees, renters insurance, etc. I have a pretty hard time believing that van life costs just as much, but I guess the price of everything is getting bad.

When rents are 3,000. It makes sense to sink that cash into a van you will outright own vs. an apartment you will never own.

Inflation is leaving a lot of people behind. I also gave up lettuce, cereal and other silly stuff until i find a reasonable price. I have an old class B self contained rv. A new one now cost 100k or more. Best thing I did was buy land for 6k and just put a travel trailer on it to live. Everything is out of control today.

the same thing has happened with tiny homes. it used to be about people building simple builds with what they had. Now, they have gotten bigger and bigger and more fancy. I wish it had never gotten popular.

I just realized I've been following and enjoying your content for over a year but I wasn't subscribed! I loved this video today. I've wanted van life for many years, crave it actually. Im a caregiver so finding a new career at 54 is not easy. Been searching for a changed for years. Your content is my favorite. You are so real and honest. Thank you Chrome.

Excellent video Chrome. My understanding your influential for a lot of people and having this type of video will help a lot of people who are trying to get into van life and can't afford it. Everything is too expensive right now. You got in the van life when it was feasible. Love Cruz little snore. 🌵💜🦋🐕🌼🌵

I absolutely LOVE watching your videos and hearing your doggo snoring in the background. It just makes me smile whenever I hear it. That pup is totally at home feeling safe and comfortable. Reminds me of living in my homemade truck camper traveling the country with my dog Piper.

It's funny the cost of living has doubled but wages haven't 😔

Sharing the Wild’s mini van is perfect. A great efficient/sufficient set up

Your "rain day chat" was spot on. Great advice. It was also fun to hear Cruz snoring in the background with my AirPods on. 🙂

My Wife and I have been living “out of” Our 2008 Chevy HHR for 4 1/2 years. It’s transportation, storage, and a bedroom. We’ve had it since it was new and now has 300,000 miles and 28 MPG. We’ve talked about a Van but for many of the same reason you spoke of, we decided to stay with what We have. It’s affordable, reliable and it works for Us. We go and do, pretty much what We want on very limited income. Point Id like to make is, use what You have. Store and sell what you do t need. It’s amazing how little is required to be comfortable and happy. Just do it.

Hi Chrome & Cruise!! I know I'm commenting 6 or so months after this was posted, but I follow a few different vanlifers cos I physically can't do it myself. So I get to live vicariously thru you all instead. I'm a massive stroke survivor w/ right side weakness which means I can't drive anymore. At least not with just my left foot & left hand. So muchlike how my Star Trek fascination began (lifelong epileptic and would never be an astronaut) my vanlife adoration began. Now I admire & watch you all as I go out on adventures with you as I sit in wheelchair in my apt. That's all, I just wanted you to know that there are non-vanlifers out here that absolutely LOVE your content too. Stay safe out there!! 🐕❤ (That translates to puppy love to Cruise.)

Well said Chrome. My repairs have been geting in the way of me saving. Cost of living is insane. Since we are both in South West BC, I can relate to the cost of living. My whole plan of doing van life was to pay off bills and save up to buy a home in the prairies. But with costs skyrocketing, I am not sure if that will ever be posible. Its disappointing. My whole life I have always wanted to be a home owner. I am hitting 49 this year, and ya, we have it rough. When I get to the island, ill be emailing you.. So make sure you look it up, lol...

It’s not about the price. It’s about the experience. You could never have these experiences living in a sticks and bricks.

I have take your advice and I sold my house back in August and moved into my toyota camry and I am loving it thanks for everything

I think some of it is the "homeless tax" my family affectionately terms it. Things we may need or want JUST because we don't have a house/land. Your needs may vary greatly but my son, service dog, & I live in our station wagon so we buy ice for the cooler, buy something every time we need to use the public bathroom ( at least every BM, lol), Pooporrie toilet spray, gym membership, some people pay to fill water tanks or totes, dump fees, community garden fees, ect. I'm thinking of getting a yearly family archery pass. I think of my "rent" in these types of terms, now.

I love you for the truth and honesty in this video❤️ Edit...cuz for a min, I thought you forgot where you came from.

Great thoughts.

CHROME:)…..Enjoy your honesty. The cost is outrageous and the sacrifice is real. I’ve been a silent but faithful fan. Appreciate your authenticity.

You have to remember Chrome it's not just van life rising in cost so is the cost of living in a sticks and bricks. So you can still come out way ahead in a van or alternative to the sticks and bricks.