CAN'T AFFORD IT ANYMORE! - 7 Essentials for Living in a Car 

When i lived in my car for a year...so many people looked down on me. Made me feel bad. They didn't even try to understand why..they just judged. Now, if ever have/choose to again...I will refuse to let anyone make me feel bad. I will tell them that they are missing out. All graves are the same size...noone can take a single thing with them except their memories. So never judge. Live your life and just be a good person. Nobody's windows are clean.

Have had people say to me : you have to have a place to live . No ,I don't HAVE to do anything ! Finally after 79 years ,I've learned !! Thanks so much for your encouragement ! 🤗

I went from apartment in upstate NY, to living in my2019 Dodge Grand Caravan SXT. And it saves me a boatload of money, regardless of gas prices! I just take my time, and don't drive as much if I can! And I love it! And I agree with you 100%, we have been conditioned and lied to for generations, that we have to live a certain way to feel successful and fit in! It's all BS!!

Fun and informative! As a 60 year old woman, I wish I had succumbed to my 'gypsy' tendencies earlier in life, but I was busy raising 5 kids!! Now, with them all happily leading their own lives, my husband and I are free to explore our own dreams and interests. I'm getting to exercise my 'itchy feet' and have taken up RVing as well as car camping! I've learned so much about myself and what I can accomplish. I may be 60, but I feel like I've just reached my stride! You're never too old to try something new, you just gotta DO IT! Thanks for the great video, and give those kitties a head rub from me!

Thats why i love your channel, no sugar coating you tell the truth and show real life inside of nomadic lifestyle in a hilarious way. Your the best Matthew. Keeping it real ♥️

This was one of your best videos. I did appreciate the humor and the very realistic evaluation of the present conditions we are facing in the world. In Canada and America we are extremely fortunate that so many of us DO HAVE some sort of vehicle that we can use as a refuge or shelter. There are so many times that the inability to afford a place on your own requires you to share room with others who are dangerous, chaotic, toxic. The ability to live in your vehicle at least holds out the option of some peace and yes even some order. Definitely we are going to see more and more of the houseless. But as the old sayings go..home is where you hang your hat & home is where the heart is. Therefore, one last tip for your video make sure that something(s) that are close to your heart make it into whatever your limited space ❣️😍

I've been studying and living what I learn. I have a home base that is my fall back in case of what ever! I love to experiment with emergency situations. And yes I have been homeless with a wife and 4 kids in an old motorhome while working on our house after a major flood and fire. You learn lots about life and living at a time of troubles! Great video and info! Happy travels my friend!

1- bucket for washroom 2- body wipes for shower 3- garbage bags 4- knives 5- flashlight 6- window blockers for privacy 7- spare/extra car keys 8- confidence in yourself and what you are doing. Thank you Matthew. List is well done🎉🎉🎉

Greetings from Georgia USA. I am so blessed that I found your channel. Thank you for giving me the courage to start looking for a van. I'm leaving a bad marriage but I have to save up in secret. Watching your videos is giving me the strength to not give up. So thank you for doing what you do. I am in hard times right now and I find happiness in your humor. Thanks for putting a smile on my face. I know my situation will work out and that perfect van will come my way. Love your channel ❤️

I spent the first 5 mos in my van without privacy curtains. Then my insomnia kicked into overdrive and I bought blackout curtains so I didn’t feel like I was living in a fish bowl. They helped a lot. My cat has locked me out of my van. I have power locks and she loves to walk along the armrests

Great video. I have learned a few things in life, the most important of which is that this is your one and only life and in the end, despite the beliefs or opinions of others, you must live it in the best manner that suits your situation. Your job is to be kind and considerate, but beyond that you have to make your best decisions based on what you feel is right for you. As long as you are not hurting anyone, go live a happy life.

I’ve been a visiting nurse for 30 yrs and because I’m on the road all day and don’t want to use other peoples bathrooms 🤮 I have one of those portable potty seats. I rigged it up with a mason jar that has a large funnel that is a perfect within the seat. And a headlamp for those late night home visits. I also car camp when driving south to visit my granddaughters and have made simple window covers. I feel safer in my car in a truck stop than I do in a nasty hotel room alone

I built my "composting" toilet and figured it would be a success if I never used it. I was stuck in traffic on the way to a toilet. It got bad. I pulled over, and used it. It was no big deal. Not bad to clean up and I now use it regularly. Flash light is really handy. Even in a small space, you might need it to investigate vehicle issues. Most people I have told about the van are supportive. I have not had negative reactions. I have had many VERY surprised reactions when they see inside.

Thank you. I’ve been worrying a lot lately about all the scaremonger stuff out there regarding the economy. I’m getting prepared to live in my car just in case.

Within two blocks of my apartment in Silicon Valley there are between 8-11 vans, campers every day.

I think once I'm able to get back on the road, I will never be seen again. I love the freedom living in a vehicle gives me. Amazing informative video Matthew !!

The end was Great spot on....🍀..... live you’re life & embrace it ! Is what I got 🍀

I took the leap five years ago when my cottage lease was ending. Yes, maybe ahead of the curve, as I saw bad times coming, but these years of experience have been invaluable , never regretted it. Fuel prices now though, have changed my travel style, as well as all the floods in Australia. More like this Matt👍

#7 is my favorite! I'm all about thinking for yourself and you don't have to comply to what others are complying to.

Pretty spot on. In a truck driver so I've figured these little things out over the years and I just got divorced (again) so I'm just going to live in my van on my weekends after the lease is up. The bucket I used to call my emergency bucket but now it's just more convenient sometimes so it's just the bucket. Especially in the winter

Thanks for the tips, and the laughs. I've recently discovered your channel and watching your content is a bright spot in my day.

Stella and Penny putting in appearances, along with birds everywhere. You say ‘don’t let the cats see the birds’ and a second later there’s Penny. Not so innocent 😂. And the ending was so cute!

Again, Good Job! If you park a little off the beaten path, might consider a tire patch kit and a small pump, used mine once. I like my lithium battery jump starter which I haven't needed but helped other folks with it twice. Common Sense improves when watching videos like this.

Interesting to hear your observations on the growth of car dwellers at Walmart.

This is different but so awesome. I love you sense of humor! Can't wait for part 2 !!

O man! So I originally was traveling the US in a Prius (in van now) but I didn't want to take us so much space with a bucket but then I remembered BED PAN so I was able to make one of those work in my small space. Only had to use it once but yeah I definitely worth, get you a place to pool and happy camping 🤙

love the comment "have confidence" after all this is your life and how you live it and where you live is up to you. if you're "happy" with this lifestyle that's all that matters!!! ...basically you do you. great message Matt

We opted for the bucket/toilet seat for our tent trailer and it’s awesome. We usually go to full service campgrounds, but we’re old and need to pee at night. The bucket and toilet seat works well. Bonus, last month our main sewer line clogged and it took a week to get the plumber out in our small town. Out came the bucket until it was repaired! Another note on house prices - in 2016 we sold our place in Calgary and left the city. Moved out to Hanna and was able to buy for cash (well under $90,000) with relative minimal proceeds from the sale since we hadn’t owned the Calgary home for long. Made all the difference in the world moving to a town of 2,000 too. We’ve had an influx of work-from-home folks do the same in the last few years.

Oh boy the look on Penny 😋 Great video Matt. Spot on. You have an art in bringing humour, informativety, positivety and truth all together. Love your upbeat personality, certainly your sound affects 😂. Real ray of sunshine in such a cloudy world. Much love 🤗 🤗

What a great list! As a bus-life mobile dweller, I 100% agree with number 7. Everything in life is temporary anyway. It's all a transition into the next adventure.

Another great one Matt😊. Now - don’t forget to USE that magnetic key holder!🤣😂🍀😘🥰💞

@VanLifePlus - Matthew - loved this list....AND YES would love for you to continue this "Essentials" List!

Stella photobombing. Penny photobombing..and "you're on a list somewhere"!! The Chickadee on your poop bucket, photobombing. So fun to watch. You are informative and fun. Thanks for the giggles!!

Wow, never thought about having a puke bucket as well as a toilet bucket. Good advise!

Good vlog! I love getting down to basics. Good advice and the reminder about confidence is what I needed to hear. Thank you ☺️

Scissors, 2 hand can openers as not every can is a pop top, heavy duty flashlight and batteries, battery operated alarm clock in case your cell phone has no reception.

Loved this video!! Thank you for saying what needed to be, and hopefully everyone lives a happy life in whatever they have.

Great video and the state of the world has been on my heart lately. Personally,, I would be up to seeing you do a part two. This is definitely information that needs to get out to the masses. Not everyone may be in dire straights at the moment, but no one knows what their life situation will be tomorrow. If Covid showed us anything, it was that things can change in an instant. When I was traveling in 2021 and living in my van, I saw so many people living in their cars, which is only something that is obvious at night. In the day, you don't know that people aren't just having a lunch break in their car. Anyway, videos like this are great for showing people the realities of van life. Great job, Matt.

Good Information. Part 2: Pets! Coping with cats 🐈, Dogs 🐕, birds 🐦 (with or with out cat lol). What other pets are out there? Dealing with their daily needs. Hey a collaborative with Amber, and others maybe 🤓 Fun!

Good advice never goes amiss, especially when it's coming from a kind heart! Some might say the items you talk about are obvious but not to everyone so this advice will definitely help some people and that can never be a bad thing right!🤘😊

Good list. Finally something different from a video like that. I keep a knife, flashlight, and lighter just about everywhere. You never know when you're going to need them.

Yeah… coming up on my 4th Winter in my 2008 5-tonne Sprinter ex Ambulance. (UK) Back in 2019 I would see the occasional ‘van-lifer’ in areas I parked up but since the COVID restrictions ended, I’m seeing wayyy more vans, and a few cars. We don’t have any Department Stores like Walmart where we can park overnight so for me, it’s more out in the wilderness. And being the UK, it ain’t that wild, and it ain’t so easy to disappear. In fact (without going off on a tangent) I believe the UK probably has the hardest van-life environment of anywhere. Mainland Europe has Aires for essential facilities and space to go truly off-grid, and North America has Walmarts (some) and again, Space. We have nothing here. At all. And ‘No Overnight Parking’ signs are increasing every month 😕 Times are hard financially for ppl living a ‘normal’ life and more and more are falling off the edge of being able to sustain themselves. And like the man said- it ain’t gonna get any better any time soon! So to those ppl considering or just starting out on Van-Life through necessity, please please remember that more than at any other time or circumstance in your life - the way you act is going to be noticed. Where you park, how tidy you are, how respectful you are, even how clean you are. Regular folks will begin their judgement process as soon as they see a van, a wood-burner chimney, a blacked out window with a light on, or covering over your front windows. They will be suspicious and cautious (and for some reason they can’t explain) fearful and resentful. In short, they will be looking for a reason to counter your “I don’t give a f*ck”, with ways to F*ck you up” first. Yes, we should all be allowed to live our lives the way desire or circumstance has led us- but wake up Kitties, that isn’t the reality is it! I digress… My 3-year 7 essentials list would be: 1. Toilet facility. Doesn’t matter what. 2. Comfortable bed/ sleeping/ snuggle zone. 3. Breakdown cover 4. £1000 or equivalent emergency fund in case your Van breaks down. This will cover all but the worst essential repairs and cover a couple of nights in a Hotel etc while it’s being repaired. (You may be able to incorporate that latter into your Breakdown cover) 5. Spare wheel, bulbs, fuses, fuel. 6. Spare Key definately! See #3 for Cover. 7. Be smart. Plan ahead. Have a Plan B always. You are living OUTSIDE society now. I’m a 24 year old single female so trust me. Living full time in a Vehicle requires acceptance that being responsible is your new best ally. It’s not all Instagram van tours and hitting the trails. In fact, this Channel, Vancity Vanlife and Cat Van Lady get the closest to telling it like it really is. And they show also that ordinary people CAN have extraordinary opportunities outside of the Norm. Van Life IS an adventure. But good or bad is on you! Peace and Love to everyone sleeping under a Metal roof tonight. 😘🚑

I actually really enjoyed this video , it was a conversation about reality ! Your conversations about anything are always a pleasure ! The little chickadee didn’t hurt for the cuteness factor ! Always be proud !

Superb. Yes, please do a part 2. Enjoyed it very much.

Great video Matthew! Great ideas for anyone beginning this nomadic life that we live. Looking forward to your next video. Hugs

Would love a Part Deaux. I don’t live in a vehicle, but downsized last year from a house to a condo and get tons of ideas for living small from y’all. I also bought a 2016 Dodge Grand Caravan last year and would not hesitate to live in it if I needed to and would not be embarrassed at all. I’m currently setting it up as a bug out vehicle, Jackery, propane burner, heater, etc etc. so if things go sideways, I’m outta here. And I have a cat, so more good ideas from y’all 👍

Along with a part two, how about a ‘don’t need this after all’ list?

Having watched you from almost the beginning of your van life adventure, this was the most eloquent video I have ever seen you do. 😸😸

This is a great video. I have had to postpone my FT vanlife (needed surgery) but the months I have done it were wonderful. I'm currently in a tinyhouse that I purchased but I am getting ready to sell it. I want a home base near family, but know that financially it is in my best interest to stay in my van. I have planned it for a long long time. I'm in So California and this is where I want to be able to stay close to some of the time. You have really upped your game on your videos and I have really enjoyed them. I have a nice log looking storage stool that my lugaloo sits in. It gives me extra seating while cooking in my van (2002 Ford Econoline 150 low top) and it is a disguise from others if they see in my van. I can't wait to take my van to Canada to visit. I have an amazing dog rescue friend/partner in Mission BC. It is beautiful out there. I laughed as I watched because the birds were all around your van - under as well, until they saw your cat lol. It made me think I need to make sure I sweep or blow away leaves etc when parked like that to keep the mice away. lol Anyway, Thanks for sharing - great topic!

I worked exclusively out of a van as a mobile office for the last several years before I retired. The very first thing I did when I signed a new vehicle was fill it with gas and go get a spare key made. Nothing more embarrassing than having to call one of your coworkers to drive 75 miles to bring you the spare key from the office. One other thing I’d suggest is I always put a $20 bill in my magnetic key holder just in case and it was hard to get to so I didn’t use it unless it was an extreme emergency. One other thing about pocket knives. I was being interviewed as a young man for a job by an old man the first question he asked was to see my pocket knife. I showed it to him and he said that’s good I’ve never interview anybody that didn’t carry a pocket knife. Thanks for the info happy trails and safe travels. I

Valuable info! Yes to #2 video 😊

That microphone is awesome. Really helps in being able to hear you as you move and film your video. Even a lot of the so-called professionals don't use those. Well done !

We are glad you like the mics and definitely adds to the power of your filming as you show with the different angles and distances. Wait till you hear the difference it makes in the wind Great video

I was actually thinking that me living in a van would see myself being locked out at least once. Question answered 😅

Great advice. We had a small pick up with a shell for the first two years. Had the back window of the shell propped open while cooking breakfast one morning and a pidgeon just swooped right in and started going nuts. Our cat started going nuts. My husband up front in the passenger seat was laughing his azz off while i was in a pidgeon/cat huricane trying to keep the b and es pidgeon free. The pidgeon finally cold cocked itself and i laid it on the hood of the truck until it recovered. The cat immediately went back to sleep 'like whatever'. Vanlife. 😂

Hiya.....just a side note--just heard about these *KUMA heated camp chairs* and are on the ollll Amazonian. I dont know anything about but thought to share as you have up to 8 months ahead of cold and may be a groovy idea for Spring camping when cold still.

🌴So true... This is what I have for emergency. 1. 5 gal bucket/cover; liner; cat litter. 2. I use scissors more than knives. 3. Plastic fork, knife, straws, ziploc bags. 4. Wipes, mechanic paper towels (recycle) 5. Solar. ( Non batteries) Thanks for the reminders... 💚 Be safe. It's gonna get worse 💜

The drive to 10K subscribers continues. If you are not subscribed what are you waiting for? GET'ER DONE! Smash the like button, share and comment even if it is just to say hi. Also engage and like other comments. As always go out there you guys, be happy, be creative, be yourselves and most importantly be positive.

My invaluable item is a headlamp. With having pets and it’s pitch black outside a headlamp lights the area and you have your hands free for leashes.

I love that you call them your "house lights."

I've lived in vehicles for a short time on and off. Once in a Toyota Corolla. Once in a jeep Cherokee. It's not bad at all besides showers. Taking a shower is priceless. My brother has been living in a van for 8 yrs ...in the mountains...during winter... he's doing just fine.

Stella and Penny peaking over your shoulder is so cute. I didn’t know Penny was such a hunter. Good girl!! Those birds were so cute. So brave. That little growl from Penny-dear was right on! “You’re on a list somewhere.” Ha ha ha ha! I love #7 as well. Right on! Be confident, Matt. You are always confident and that is just so nice! That is what we need and want!

Love the way you tell it how it is. Good motivation for people watching and a very good way to present it. Keep the video coming you channel it going places and yes I saw the video you did with 6 essential for a van. Loving your channel..

Love this channel 🌺💘 Prediction your channel viewership is going to get very very high!!💫💫💫💫💫Remember we're Van/Car Blessed. And we have a Van Blessed Nest.🌻🌻

Enjoyed the vlog! A lot entertaining and a lot of valuable info! Have an awesome weekend! And YES! Knowledge is priceless!! ...the axe would be one I would definitely add to the list!

I used to truck a lot and in the warmer months in Canada I’d look for pullouts at lakes or rivers for a bath lol. Even below freezing sometimes but make sure the vehicle is warm afterwards lol.

I enjoyed the video and would definitely watch a part two. Of course, also loved Stella's and Penny's cameos.

Have a fantastic day

Loved the sign. Yes, Part 2.

I recently found your channel and love all your awesome advice about vanlife here in Canada. I'm currently getting my Bronco ready for next spring, which I plan of living in and exploring Canada. It's very daunting going from a big house to a small space but looking forward to the adventure. Thanks for sharing your experience.

So good, Matt. I'm in the 3rd category and very mortified and ashamed, so to combat this, I am making the lemon as pretty as I can with what I have. Also, adapt. Adapt adapt adapt.

I agree with most of the items that you spoke of. However after over 2 years of full time minivan life I have yet to use privacy curtains. I am more concerned with knowing what is going on outside than with strangers knowing what is going on inside. And, I have had very few people try to look inside. Most people just walk on by. Good video.

Good one Matthew 😎 I will be picking up some reflectics for the windows cause yes, like you, I would like to have my privacy. I bought a toilet seat and got a pail for free, so I now have a pooper, yay 🎉😂 I am not afraid to use it either! When you gotta, we’ll, you gotta. Those little birds, how cute. Be safe and thanks again for Shaolin

Live the life you live! I am saving up for my handicapped bus conversion. I know my life is going to improve when I am finally free.

Excellent video. This inflation is insane, life has gotten crazy. Thank you. 💖

They are used to people feeding them, which is why when you were putting out your hand they were swooping in to land

Fenix makes great quality EDC flashlights that are micro USB rechargeable. I highly recommend them. Unlike my brother, I suggest having an entire Rubbermaid tub full of them.. ..perhaps even two. Because the darkness always comes. Also, a system to keep that mild blade “obsession” sharp.. because a dull knife is worse than a second hand luggable loo with no lid.

Think the last key point was the best !! It was both intertaing and informative...

Hi Matt, have you ever had to use the flashlight to find your phone? Thanks for the tips.

I’m laughing at how intently Penny was sizing up a bird score! I have wrestled birds out of the mouths of cats so many times it’s scary. It’s their survival instinct I know but just like spaying or neutering I wish there was a way to de-bird there little instinct. Always fun this blog hugs to killer Penny & the beautiful Stella.

I felt ‘the urge’, so I ‘subbed’ … Taken in by your understated Canadian humor, slightly twisted, your demeanor earned a like also. 🤔🤣👍🏻🇨🇦

That little bird has been making himself at home under your van since 5.01. 😆

Hi Matt, Penny and Stella!

Do a part 2 on, type of insurance, mail, addresses for Dr's or Government ID. Is there a " website" or van group for support . Etc

Thanks for causing me to cuss at my Roku, Matt! I thought the video had frozen at the start! But then, like a genie from a lamp, we got a Matt rising from a pooper! Anyway - on with the rest of the vid…

Great video.. well said.... and lol to Penny catching a bird while in a cage. Girl has skills

This was deeply informative. thank you.

Great tips! My life without my Luggable Loo would not be complete. And a hint for the flashlight, get a headlamp. That way you can always aim the stream of light exactly where you need it, and still have two hands available to look for what you’re looking for. Bahaha, I thought I was bad for locking my keys in! I lost a set out kayaking one day, in the middle of the ocean ffs! And it’s a good thing I had my spare key or I’d still be snorkelling looking for that set. 🤦‍♀️🤣 Thanks for the fun and congrats on the Subs, 16.4K there now, bravo! Have fun, stay safe, stay warm. 👏

I can't be the only one that chuckled when Matt reached into the bucket as he's saying "number 2", right? Is my inner 12 year old showing? 😛

👍🏼👍🏼 to your video. I’ve been in my van for almost 2 months now (on a short adventure) and that spare key is in my pocket - as I have watched your videos 😅. I do have two little puppies that are with me and they, at times, have hit the lock button on me and yes the main keys are in the van when they do that. However I am grateful my spare has been in my pocket. Matt great entertaining and informative video.

Hello Matt. Stella and Penny!

I really liked the format of this one, Matt. Very informative and straightforward. I find that you have been tending to rely on your 'silly voices' a lot lately- it seems to have become a bit of a crutch for you - and, for me at least, that somewhat detracts and distracts from your message sometimes. You kept that to a minimum here, which I really liked. Just my two cents and worth what you paid for it. Been watching you since the beginning and love you bunches. 🤗

Watch till the end! Best point ever! = )

Loved the stroll-in-intro, very cool.

That little bird has been around your van like it's in a play yard your whole video.🌵💜😊🐈🐈🦋🌵

Having a poop bucket is the best invention ever!

I admire that you can do it. I lost a good job and then some months later the whole company shut down after over sixty years. I took time off to work on my camper. I found more work so keeping the house is not a problem. I dont know how well I would do living in my camper. Its pretty roomy but I think it would be cold in winter. I also like to have a base of operation to return to. If I sold the house now it might be hard to afford another one later. I just found your channel and subscribed.

I bought a compost toilet for those rare times when no public toilet is available. Now the only toilet I use is the compost toilet. It’s so convenient. It doesn’t smell. It’s cheap to maintain. And most of all it’s private, and I know it will always be clean. Very unlike public toilets.

#3 for me! Getting my pickup truck as ready as possible in case I lose my house.

Well, you know I don't give a F@#K what others think of me...now if I could just be a little easier on myself! I absolutely loved this vlog! So many things hit that threw stigmatized ideas out the window. Hopefully you took Martin's advice on the key situation! And what was that, 10% of the knives in your possession? Probably less than 5%... Thank you for the laughs and roll that beautiful bird footage...knife footage...bucket footage...o.k. maybe not using the bucket footage...and overall positivity! And definitely a part two!!!