Yay! It’s been an adventure for you for sure. I remember our disagreements the day I was trying to help you move out of the apt and it took me a while to understand all the crazy emotional stuff you were having to decide that day and I’m sure all the anxiety, fears and memories going through your head. But you did it, took a leap of faith and I’m so proud of all you are doing. You have been an inspiration to your own mother and I’ve learned so much from you! Amazing 💕🙌

It helps out a lot if you are a minimalist, and also an introvert.

Video ideas: 1. Having a social life while on the road. 2. Mental health for a fulltime nomad.

I am a single female looking into getting my own van and so far this process has been quite overwhelming. You bring up so many great points!!! Many people have told me I shouldn’t do this but I know that in my heart this is what I want to do. Thank you!

I recommend people think hard about the question, Do you want to Live IN your vehicle, or OUT of your vehicle? This is a lifestyle question about what you'll spend your time doing when traveling and what level of creature comforts and capabilities the van needs to provide to maximize those abilities within your budget. Leaning heavily towards OUT of your vehicle means you have hobbies that will fill most of your daylight hours: rock climbing, backpacking, photography, biking, sightseeing, shopping, volunteering, working at a job, etc. It often means you'd be happy just to have a dry, regular place to crash every night on the extreme end and you're willing to cook outside regularly and perhaps shower with a gym membership when in a city or a shower bag with warm water and a pop up shower enclosure as examples. You're fine with water from a rechargeable spigot on a 3 gallon refillable water bottle and taking care of business with a shovel and public facilities and possibly an ice chest and simpler cooking means (Hotlogic Mini or camp stove). Leaning heavily towards IN your vehicle means that you want to spend long daylight hours in the vehicle and need space and features to make that comfortable. Comfortable seating for long hours with a laptop / tv, crafting / hobby workspace, storage for hobby supplies and tools, ability to cook / bake, perhaps a full size shower, room for a pet, running water. thick comfy mattress, room for exercise/yoga, ability to stand up, higher electric power needs, cassette or composting toilet, refrigeration possibly with a freezer. You may also have special needs or be traveling with a partner also and need to make the solution work equally well for both people to have long term success. All of these example considerations are to suggest everyone places themselves uniquely on the spectrum for all these considerations. You should build the huge list of them, try to make sure you've considered them all, and determine what type of vehicle that may be suggesting will work best for your needs, given the possible compromises of a limited budget.

Honestly, best road map to #vanlife ever. Most folks start with 'so we bought a van'. You start from 'do I even want a van?' and go through literally everything. Super helpful. THANK YOU!!

This is the first "van life" video I've come across since I started looking into it where I believe the person actually lives in the van and it's not a stupid social media stunt, thank you for the information and perspective.

I’m finally doing it this year! I’ve been wanting to build out a van since I was 16..... but when I moved out at 18 I started working and saving AND INSTEAD I met who I thought was my soulmate and we were together for years! And then one day I woke up and realized I wasn’t happy living somebody else dream anymore! SOOOO now we are here and I’m buying a short bus in July🙃

Thank you for the tips!! 2021 will be the year of my van dream!💪🏻

Very insightful advice. Well done. I took a 6 week spin from Florida to Colorado this fall and confirmed my love of vanlife in an empty Sprinter with just a blowup mattress, cook stove, cooler and water jug. Now I’m happily spending the winter at my home in Florida building out the van with the guidance of many KZfaqrs, a perfect pandemic project. After things warm up, regardless of how far along I am in the build, I’m heading out again for a tour of the New England coast and Maritimes before heading out for a west coast tour, California to Vancouver. I discovered my muse leads me to driving onward about every day, even if for just a few miles, taking a hike, and relaxing in beautiful, remote places. One thing I really discovered is I love traveling alone where I can follow my whims wherever they lead. A “Scenic Route” marker may lead me on a spontaneous detour lasting days with no need to confer with a travel mate. The tranquility suits me, with occasional short visits with friends and family. The beautiful scenery is my most cherished companion. Thank you for leading the way :)

You inspire me a lot. I am 16 right now and hoping to get into van life when I'm older. Thanks for the great tips and an excellent video

I love your channel so much. I'm going to try and move into my SUV with my 3 dogs when my lease is up, get out of medical debt, save up for a van, and live the dream of being closer to nature. Thank you for all you do!!

I like the idea of van life but I have a very hard time thinking about having no one around me in my immediate vicinity that I can rely on for help if I need it. I love the idea of being out on my own and having adventures in nature, but I am terrified to get hurt or someone hurting me that really deters me from ever fully committing to doing anything other than car camping with my family on the weekends. You give me a lot of inspiration, but I also thank you for giving me reality checks. Van life is a great life style, just not for me personally, at least not right now.

You literally take 'Home to where you park it' to a completely different level. Anyone wanting to venture down this path would be well served with your astute insights.

This was the most realistic and concise list of how to get ready for road life. Fantastic job!

I love how your an amazing youtube producer and you don’t post every week, you post videos when you feel like it! It’s inspiring because most youtubers you see post weekly and often get sick and tired of it. I’m not saying that these weekly youtubers are like all tired etc, some even have more fun doing it this way! But if I ever become a youtuber I will do it when I have the time. Good video Christian!

Not only are you absolutely stunning, but realizing your dream and just live, is admiring!. I sure am thinking of trying this!

Im really glad I came across this, although I am still a teen I am turning 18 in about three years. And living in a house or apartment was never a great idea when I thought about it, so I think living in a van would be really awesome, especially because I really love traveling, nature and just being alone, thank you for posting this

Hi Christian, thank you for your authenticity and realistic approach to this lifestyle. I’m currently in the identical situation as you were, I’m sure you’ve heard the story many times, the ending of a longterm relationship. I’ve turned to my van as the next chapter in my life. I’ve always loved and felt a sense of being alive from the outdoors, traveling, exploring, roadtrips, and all that comes with this life more than I’ve felt connected and like I fit into the normal lifestyle. I appreciate the hardships, challenges, and the journey more often than the destination I find. Now facing this as my reality due to some life choices and unique situation I’m in, it will be a huge shift from my escape to my everyday. I have a lot of questions around that to explore, but I guess I just wanted to say thank you for all the content you put out, it has brought me back to my why. The majority if not everyone in my circle do not understand this decision, so there are definitely moments of doubt I find myself in. I trust the support will come as I travel down this road!

It's like watching the old pioneers that used to saddle up the wagons and head across country in the old movies.. You're a Champion of life cos you just do it! Good for you..

Your channel is one of the most insightful and relatable I’ve seen concerning van life. It doesn’t feel “scripted” like so many of the more popular van life videos.

I find that the van life is enticing! but I have to admit I'd be afraid to sleep at night. I love the idea of having the freedom of being in a different a state everyday. I find that your videos are extremely informative and very helpful.

Thank you so much for this. I am crying. I have been blind since age 16 and just got my sight back for the first time six months ago through a miracle surgery. This has been my dream for many years and now that I am getting my license soon, this seems more tangible. Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Wow! That was one of the most informative honest van life realities ever. Thank you so much. God bless

I love living in small spaces but need a full bathroom so will be installing that into my van this year.

Perfectly explained. Some things you would never even consider without someones personal experiences. Stay safe. Love your work.

I love how genuine and transparent your advice is!

incredible info and couldn't have been more divinely timed!! vanlife is coming more quickly for me than i realized. Christian thank you so much, this video, information, and realness is absolutely perfect

Great info on dealing with the transition to van life and how to deal with daily life. More than just a pretty face... This girl is smart as hell and quite inspirational! Loving your videos!

Ahh thank you I needed this 🙏🏼 I’m leaving a ten year career in retail to pursue life on the road. In one week I’ll be living in my 09 Subaru Outback. Thanks for making this idea seem not so crazy 💓💘

I really appreciate how thought out you are when doing these kind of videos. I know that as soon as you post there might be something you wished you would have done a little differently or hadn't covered at all. The one thing I've noticed about your followers is that they leave respectful follow ups or deeper perspective that is more individual to their experience. Thanks for sharing, hopefully one day I'll get out there myself. ✌🏽🤙🏿👍🏻

This is the best channel. You centre on all the questions i needed answered and given me the confidence to do it!! Thankyou xxxx

Love your photography it’s absolutely amazing, definitely a creative genius helps out when you are living this way. I lived out of my van and I loved it. Freedom felt so great. I’m an artist also and I think artists are searching for this in our lives. It feels expansive

I am 21 and have been super interested in this lifestyle! I graduate college in 2 and a half months and I am ready for changes. I no longer have my SUV, just a Honda right now but I am definitely doing all of the research I can before the time comes for me to make decisions. Thanks for the video I took a lot of note from this!!

I love the daily challenging yourself and growing. Now that sounds like really being alive!❤️

You are really GOOD at explaining, delving into things, Christian…..I have now binge-watched just about all of your vids, and I am consistently very impressed at your thoroughness and calm, concise delivery. You are so well-grounded. Please keep doing this!

@Christian Schaffer: This is very helpful! I started out van building for comfort while traveling but realized that I actually use it as a safe space as I suffer from PTSD because I have challenges with driving by myself. By creating this oasis for me, I've realized that it is a healing experience and hopefully one day, I can drive again without having panic attacks. What I found so helping in your video is the insurance. I never thought that we would have to have RV insurance once we build a homelike structure inside our vans. I will definitely look into that as I only have regular triple AAA vehicle insurance. I am grateful for your tips. Thank you

Thanks for this video. Been thinking about vanlife for a while. I've just decided to sign a 6 month lease at my apartment instead of 12 to get my rear in gear but allow some time to prepare. Been thinking about some points you've touched on and it's good to hear that my thoughts are in a similar direction; reduce inventory, maybe rent a storage space, maybe try it out in my current vehicle.

Thank you for diving in with the tips! Be safe on that road ❤️

You’re certainly the prettiest van lifer I’ve ever seen. Not to mention clearly very interesting and intelligent. That dude seriously lost out… Have fun girl!

Hey Christian! I’d love a video on how you go about taking pictures/editing process! Specially on how you get your photos so sharp! Love the KZfaq content so far :)

"Remember your why", great advice x

Christian, Thank you so much for all the information in this video! It helps to know what to think about ahead of time! I’m looking into this lifestyle for when my youngest graduates and moves on. I’ve always been an adventure seeker! 💙 Keep the videos coming!! You go girl ! 💙🙏🏻

Thank you for this video!!! I'M SO GLAD I found your channel! I can't believe I finally found a grown, mature woman doing VanLife instead of those obnoxious young teens/early 20s youtubers who only want social media clout. You, my dear, are a breath of fresh air. I'm definitely subscribing. :D

Wish you a great year of adventure and safety Christian. As you mentioned in the beginning and a humble request, it would be great to learn about typical challenging days. Otherwise, your points are crystal clear, well thought, methodical and sequenced properly. Your lifestyle is a great example of lean living, makes me realize how much resources I actually need and how much I am currently wasting. All the best!

The logistics of it all seems overwhelming. You've communicated it very well. Although I realized full time van life is not for me, I am looking forward to doing it on a part time basis. Thank you for the tips.

probably the most informative, compassionate and honest tips vid i have watched. incredibly helpful and thoughtful info. thanks

im a teen and i can't wait for the day I can get a van and live this life. I grew/growing up in a very strict household were I never get any freedom. At the moment I live in the camper at my grandmothers and camped in them before so I already know the fact I love living in one

It’s insane how similar you’re situation was to mine lol. 5 year long term long distance relationship ending. Meditation practice. Thinking nonstop and gravitating to a remote life for a fresh start and seeking adventure etc. very pleased to see you have made that step! Extremely inspired thank you!

Christian, Good Advice, Thanks for Sharing... Safe Travels and Happy New Year.

Just found your channel, I honestly feel so inspired by you! Van life has been my dream for agessss. Your van is gorgeous and I’m happy for you, achieving something that many people only dream of. ❤️❤️

The light-white interior of your home makes it look spacious and clean. I've seen a lot of can builds. Yours is beautiful. 🏡❤️🏡

Yup this was the reassurance I needed hahah I definitely will be starting my rv adventure this year

This was a super helpful video. I am in the same situation, relationship ended and I am reevaluating my life, and Vanlife seems very attractive, but I'm just not sure I want to commit to full time. Glad I found your channel eager to learn more.

Christian, this should be required listening before anyone get out on the road. Id be fishing the entire time.

Thank you for sharing. You are so brave, courageous, and an inspiration to me. I currently live on my 31' sailboat and am preparing to purchase an RV because I want more space, want to be around trees and soil, and travel alone, but I really see the flexibility of being in a van. Yes, living alone is challenging but growth causing. You are a very strong woman and seem to live in the moment and embrace life. How many people on this planet do that? I can tell you that only a small percentage have the guts to do what you do. Awesome!!!!!

Such great info and advice! Trying to figure out the insurance part right now and you're not kidding.. it's confusing! Happy New Year! ✨

Hope you are doing well. Praying for you. Be guided by Truth: and Fulfill Your Passion. Safe travels and Best Wishes.

I get completely lost in your eyes !! I can just sit ,and listen to your fascinating adventures for hours !! You are definitely not boring !! I'm happy that your sharing your experiences, and travel tips.Plus your living so clean,and organized while producing these very helpful tips for people that are curious about traveling into thier futures. Until you're next adventure,this is Chrisper signing off,and wishing you safe,and happy 👣 trails !!! 🍻 🥂 Cheers !!!

You are incredibly generous with your information- I hope many people realize the value. Thanks. Stay safe.

I love your videos! I am seriously considering van life but there are a few things I need to work out first. To me, it seems to be awfully liberating to minimize the amount of possessions you have and just go wherever the road takes you. I’m extremely introverted, I think that’s another reason I’m drawn to van life. You give some awesome ideas to “try before you buy” in this video and I just might do that. Thank You!

Staying at a motel; something that Christian mention in passing. I'm thinking for those with very minimal bathroom/shower facilities and feel the need for a bigger space once in a while that staying in a motel once a month or so might go a ways in giving one's self a luxury treat from time to time. Just a guess on my part as I've yet to build out a van (just retired).

My why is definitely a combination of all of the ones you mentioned. Thank you again for the awesome content you are sharing. I am grateful for your insights ❤️

I love your channel! I’m from Bellevue, WA, and left home for the army back in 2005. Now I’m retiring in three years and van life sounds amazing.

THIS IS VERY INSPIRING AND INFORMATIVE !!!! THANK YOU💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚💚

I need excitement, freedom, and I want to live so much more intentionally. I have this image of seeing the world and not being restrained by having to stay in a hotel. But I think I might do it with my car.

I think you’re very smart & organized. Thanks for this video. It helps those of us who think about van life all of the time.

I am loving your contents and have been binge-watching so many of them! It really gives me perspectives on "real" van life. Thank you💕

Hi Christian. Living in a van is not a way of life. It is a whole, complete and viable philosophy. Thank you for the video.

Thank you Christian for all the pointers! I've slowly been thinking about how I'm going to approach life on the road and it's not been easy to figure out. BUT I am resolved to get out of this rain in the winter months and need to progress somehow...I'm not going to be full time on the road but about four months our of the year I'd like to escape Vancouver and head south. I think I'm going to take your advice and get a bigger SUV to start with. That seems to be my best avenue as vans are so expensive to start off with. Bless you and thanks again!!

Good and informative video. I used many of these common baselines when I moved into my van about 21 months ago. And still use this knowledge on the daily. Thanks for making the content clear and very usable.

What a beautiful combination of inspiration and practical advice. Many thanks for sharing your experiences. 🚐

I love your videos! The scenery and cinematography is always enjoyable to watch! I’d love to hear more about your camera setup when you have a chance!

I'm definitely interested in traveling and having a mobile home that can go with me. I'm a huge shopper and have two closets full of clothing, shoes, outerwear etc. I desperately need to short through things and get rid of a bunch of stuff I haven't even worn the majority of it in years. I think you definitely need to be a minimalist living this lifestyle and open to changes these were all great tips and advice.

A fabulous run through of main points. Thank you.

Nooo pero quién me le rompió el corazón a esta dulzura, I'm so amazed with your bravery, congrats and hope to do the same project as your!

Very helpful video You have the most stunning eyes.

I just started my own KZfaq channel and I hope to take it on the road soon. Thank you for the helpful hints.

I think you just described my life in the last month as I prepare for my van life journey. Everything I want to save goes into my bedroom; only after purging it first of stuff I neither want or need. Everything outside of the bedroom goes to Goodwill, is given away or sold. If I don't have room in the van for it...it's gone. Even my watch collection, 63 years of backpacking gear, all of my souvenirs from 16 years of overseas travel have to go. Commitment is a huge part of starting a new era in one's life. A comment that being an introvert helps. I'm one of those people who loves being social but having "my time" is so much more important. Great advice, Christian.

a van life has always been my dream life, thank you so much for this video

such great tips! wish i knew these when i started

1. 3:10 Know your why 2. 4:21 Try it out 3. 4. 6:53 Make a budget 5. 10:26 Plan for basics 6. 7. 12:42 Vehicle Insurance 8. 14:02 Legal stuff

Hi Christian! I recently found your channel and it is so informative. I too am looking for a change after a long time relationship and this is a dream. Thanks for the honesty, putting yourself out there, and I hope you keep making videos! Its fun to “be on the road” with you! You make the dream seem possible.

I love the why question!! TOTALLY appreciate your bravery for sharing.

Have you ever considered getting a longer van and having a bathroom (shower/toilet)? It just seems that that is the largest sacrifice that is also most frequently mentioned.

Could you have more perfectly matched your sweater to your eyes? (Answer: No)

Thanks for the very practical tips: power, bathroom, 4 wheel drive, etc. I look forward to your adventures and photography in 2021.

Those are solid and legit lessons learned from life on the road! You're doing great! Thank you for sharing this video and for not Sugar Coating the topics.

I lived in a van once, for like an hour. I test drove one, got stuck in traffic and fell asleep. When I woke up I was on the side of the road with a tow truck bill stuck between the wind shield wipers.

I did the van life long before it was a thing. The advice you give is absolutely awesome. It's not always hard It's not always easy But in the end All of us To Need to realize That life doesn't require as much stuff As we have

Thank you for talking alone in your car! It was very informative and real. Much appreciated!

Happy new year 2022 to Christian, my favourite vanlife channel!

Did you have any debt when you started living on the road?

Great video! Have you looked into Escapees Club? I joined to get legal nomad status out of South Dakota ( other options are Florida & Texas). They offer scan & mail forwarding as well as meet up activities, job forums, etc.

Glad you are enjoying this lifestyle

loved this video. you did a good job putting crucial info in an easy and digestible format. really appreciate that :)

2 questions: how do you deal with overall security, and second, how are you not “stressed” about not saving enough for the future?

I'm deadass just trying to get away from my mom cause I still wanna live in my city cause I'm 17 and I plan on going to college here

Thankyou, you are such a calm and pragmatic inspiration. I am just starting to bring together this dream for myself, so it's very encouraging to see another female creative rocking it on the road. Thanks!

I love how chill, non-drama, non-bullshit and well thought-out-planned-backup-of-backup you are.