Love this format… real talk, real facts, the real you…. This brings it all together.. your art.. and the person behind the art.. and bringing reality to the “ van life” myths…. Well done my friend.. well done
I felt the urge to do the religious thing of selling all I had and paying Alms. I ended up in a backpack with a sleeping bag traveling from town to town. I should’ve done it. My only way out was to buy a van to live in. I guess before that was to live from the trunk of a car. I used a tent a lot. I was also eating at missions and homeless shelters.
I am a 59 year old, American woman, who has worked in the office setting, service industry and after my divorce 15 years ago, I have been a global nomad. I was thinking today how wonderful social media has been for those who have used it to express and develop their creative talents without boundaries. What a wonderful time we live in where we can choose to stick our necks out and take a chance at exposing and developing our talents and skills without someone who is threatened by them trying to suppress those talents. I really love watching the young, and the old and wise, create these channels and share them. It's a gold mine. I also love the adventurous spirit that is American. We do come from the adventurous type. The risk takers. The Pioneers. The Wild Ones. Those who seek it are truly free. Truly courageous and taking control of their own lives. Christian, your commentary exposes the trappings of our current society. I think much of those judgments you mentioned are out of jealousy and desire. Whatever our choices, life is difficult. But nomad life is freedom. Our species was meant to be nomadic.To be free to roam.
This is your best one yet, and that's saying something. I'm now 77 and after my wife died, I sold everything and took to the road to find solace. I did 2 years in my Minnie Winnie (aka Kismet Wandering), met someone in the process, and have been off the road for almost two years. You help me maintain my connection. RU-vid and The Road will be the poorer if, or when, you decide you've had enough. Be well, and thank you.
I'm so grateful to have seen your comment. I often wondered what van/RV living would be like for those of us 50 years old and up. Hubby and I are seriously considering this option because we can no longer keep us with the cost of living in NYC.
This video hit me on two different levels. As a retired attorney, I can commiserate with you regarding all the hurdles you have to jump over (or limbo under, or squeeze past), especially regarding banking and insurance issues as well as Washington State business taxes. On the other hand, I was on the road in the late hippie era, fifty-some years ago, and eventually landed in a magical area near Lake Tahoe, where I lived outdoors three seasons of the year for over three years. Technicalities were few and far between back then. For instance, you could waltz into the local DMV office and register your vehicle and get your license using whatever address or locale you wished. (I still have an old license with the name of the forest valley I lived in as my address, and a friend and I registered an old, 1940s, pickup truck to a rather imaginary utility district). Back then, people like me were not homeless: we were outdoorsmen/people. Hitchhiking was a reliable form of transportation, and I made fairly regular trips to UC Berkeley to stock up on books on Eastern religion, languages, and poetry. I eventually got the bug to go back to school, saved up all my wages from graveyard shifts at a gas station, and put myself through college and law school. I credit those on-the-road years (largely influenced by Kerouac, Gary Snyder, Ken Kesey, Tom Wolfe, and Allan Watts, among others), as giving me a unique perspective on the “regular” work world, and many of my happiest memories stem from those years. I am certain you will look back on these years, in which you have been professionally productive in addition to engaging in internal and worldly exploration, as something to cherish as you eventually move on to other chapters of your career and life.
No college just the school of hard nocks! early 70's found me in Colorado. All over the west then some college in AZ. Now in my 70's I guess I'm a socialist on SS but not in my soul. It was wide open then very free.Christian has a lot on her plate we never had back then. I still feel free in my soul not in this world government. I need another hundred years or more oh well.......🥳
41-year-old introverted gay dude here and have to say, honestly, your videos like this that get down into the nitty gritty make me love the nomad life even more. Because even the worst days aren't much crazier than what many already experience in their daily, stationary lives. Different puzzle pieces, same puzzle of life. Thanks for continuing to share content with us. It's a relief to have people like you, Mariah Alice, Anna and a handful of others who aren't the typical brodude earth roamers. You inspire many of us to do what we love and allow us to get a glimpse of the world from a different perspective. It's greatly appreciated on this end.
I met an old man when I was selling my home after my husband passed away from cancer. He came to buy our rototiller I’d advertised on Craigslist. He and his family turned out to be the answer to my question about an address once I got moved in to my van. I pay him $100/ month and they rent me the empty cow pasture beside their house. They get my mail for me and text me a pic of it. I have a beautiful place to park whenever I’m in East Tennessee and it’s working out great, going on 3 years now. There’s also mail forwarding services out there in almost every state. Happy travels to you all.
I'm addicted to your content. Your commentary, your advice, your opinions and especially your art. I'm 66, retired videographer with 42 years in Television, Video Production and Video training. I also divorced 7 years ago after a 40 year marriage. I live fulltime now in my 2014 Winnebago Vista, I call "Pancacke". I call her "pancake" because the previous owners called her that and I don't know what else to call her. The first year out, I hauled my 2009 Yamaha FZ6R motorcycle in an enclosed trailer, but decided a couple of months ago that I need my car with me on the road. So, I now pull my 2014 Fored Explorer with a roadmaster tow bar. The expense of that installatoin will be offset by selling the motorcycle and trailer. My home base is Dallas, where my kids and grandkids live, but I am venturing out more and honestly, your video of Yosemite is pulling me to go northwest. I almost cooked last year in the Texas heat and will not stay here again this year, if I can afford the gas to get me somewhere cooler. I did just renew my membership with Thousand Trails and used it extensively last year, but not sure about this year. The main reason I bought "pancake" is becasue the previous owners had just installed a 3000 watt solar power system on her. All Victron Energy components and 8 Lion Energy 105 watt hour Lithion Ion batteries. It's the bomb. I've done some dry camping, but want to do much more this year. You've inspired me to create video content for people more like myself who seek an alternative way of living their best lives at an older age. I hope, when and IF I do get a channel up and running....you might give me a view and perhaps a "subscribe". Love what you do and how you do it. Be careful. Mike
I couldn't do it full-time. I need my home base, plus my Solis. Anybody who is full-time has my admiration for being able to pull it off. A strong support crew is vital and I am sure that can grow with time if open to the concept. Thanks for sharing with us all on the ups and downs of vanlife
I like how Christian and others include exercise and sometimes going to the health club in their lifestyles. All of these organized and beautiful women find time to maintain a healthy and attractive body with their exercise and healthy nutrition. 🙏🏽❤️
You hit the nail on the head about time. My wife and I never fully appreciated our time until after we sold everything and moved aboard our 38’ sailboat. The true freedom in life is the ability to use time to your own advantage and not someone else’s.
Hi Christian... I know your ups and downs in van life. I was on the road from 1995 to 2020. I am so happy to say Mine was a great adventure seeing the world on my own terms. Now I have retired and at 60 yrs of age, I settled in wasaga beach Ontario. I have no regrets living on the road. If the passion still burns in you to continue then you go girl.
Very much enjoyed this genuine "chat." I'm an aging hippie woman preparing to be a road lifer by choice in a mini van and mini cargo trailer with a dog and cat. Long time ago (80s) I was homeless often and living in my not so reliable vehicle with my dog,. I remember well how folks regarded it and it was demeaning. This was in Santa Cruz, homeless were not well treated. Back then it was not a choice, just as now it isn't for many people.
paid off my house 2 years ago! keeping it and will be using it as home base while I get my feet wet with extended overland trips pulling my 22' travel trailer (multi month to start) . Past 10 years I have spent several weeks straight in Colorado but in 2024 the plan is to start with a 90 day trip to see how I like it and hit utah,colorado,wyoming/montana!
I had dreamed of tiny living all my life but was a young single mom and loves nature. Unfortunately, I was in a car accident in 2020 and taken out of both my jobs (hospital/restaurant) it’s been a struggle since. My kids are grown but have roomies etc now and I lost my apt s when I couldn’t afford to renew at the additional $451 monthly. Now I am trying to find myself. I don’t have the finances to back this or even afford a power bank but I hope that living in my car will lead me to happiness and a new path in life since I need a new career now. Love watching others thrive because I hope I will too. Thanks for sharing your journey through your Images and talent.
I dis-agree....and I think she herself disproves this sentiment. But I find her to be an incredibly truthful and humble person (in her vids obviously, I don't know here personally), so it doesn't surprise me.
As an introvert person living in an absolutely overcrowded and overegulated country, van life sounds wonderful to me. I love the way you talk about your experience, with all the pros and cons. You ever need someone to talk to… just yell -your community or me in person, will be right with you...
sat here in tears, you have no idea how much i needed to hear your words. I've lost everything including my brother, my mum's against me making one. but i know it's what i need.
So eloquent and articulate, always choosing the right tone or words, especially on tricky topics.... plus so insightful and aware. I really think you should write a book .... a long term project maybe? You are a good citizen and ambassador, a real tonic. Just all round lovely. From a part-time UK van-lifer, also 5 years in, still deciding whether to go full time. I wish the scenery here was a patch on your West Coast ... that would decide it for me!
I loved this chat. I have lived in a van for 2.5 years but don’t really have any “vanlife” friends. I’m not exactly the target audience for this specific video, but it felt like a warm hug to hear the struggles of this lifestyle put into words in this way. At this point in time, the pros still outweigh the cons for me, but I felt a lot less alone hearing someone speak so honestly about it.
Thanks for sharing Christian. I think it's sad that some people have to label anything different as "wrong". I have admired all the people who have dared to shed their clutter and opt for the freedom of a nomad. I say dared, because so many of us have spending habits that after time, we feel burdened with "stuff". I'm decluttering now, I'm thinking of moving to smaller home. I'm 71 and I am feeling the weight on my shoulders lightening with every load I donate. Yeah!😂 You have some wonderful videos, keep up the good work!❤
I love that you did this video, I start Vanlife this month and doing all the things … it can be quite overwhelming. I’m at the point where I’m selling my things, donating, looking for a remote job etc., and really grateful for the information you’ve shared … stuff I need to do before getting the heck out of Florida lol … thanks again and look forward to your upcoming informational type videos ❤❤❤!
Merci pour votre voyage Christian. Vous etes la Reine des Nuages. Tous les choses que vous disez est la difference entre .. je veux & j'ai besion de - The minimalist lifestyle challenges each person to chose between what they truly need or simply want. Your discussion encourages each viewer to search within oneself to ask these vital questions of self reflection & examination.... An experience which can be both empowering & frightening... the spooky house @ the end of the street which is simply too scary to enter .... Neil Young sings ...it's hard to make arrangements with yourself... Do I really need 43 t-shirts & 18 pairs of shoes.... Letting go of most of our "stuff" is a process to examine who we really are... a reality sandwich with no mustard, tomato, onion or mayonnaise ... you are a fearless explorer Christian ... thanks again for the adventure!
Wow! Incredibly brave to be as vulnerable and real as you are in this video. You’re very inspiring, talented, well spoken, and much more, Christian! As a fellow member of the human tribe I wish you all the best on your life’s journey. 👏🏼👏🏼❤ P.S. Have you considered buying a small inexpensive plot of land to resolve the tax/residence problem? Some municipalities allow one to obtain a permanent mailing address on undeveloped land. Great home base to park the van too!
As an introvert myself, putting yourself out there on RU-vid is crazy tough as it is. Especially if one is hypercritical of themselves (I'm this way through and through) but it feels natural when you're speaking. I live on the east coast, so if you're ever out this way again, it's definitely on my bucket list to meet you in person. You're my favorite van lifer to watch and I hope you continue doing well!
You are not alone. I am a trucker who has lived on his own for far longer than I want to think about. Worrying about where you are gonna take a shower next,.You need to go #2, RIGHT NOW and there is nothing close by. Food. Decent, home-cooked, nonfast food. Making sure you have enough in your bank account and/or credit card account to cover some extreme equipment malfunction and believe me 18 wheeler fixes are 3 times what you might experience. But being out there, by yourself, seeing the beauty that this world has to offer, it's all worth it..... .... till you get tired. I'm getting tired. I have a feeling you're getting tired too.
It’s an experience like no other, that’s for sure 🤓 I suspect a part of me will always crave and return to the road, but I’m discovering there are other parts of me that also deserve time and attention. It’s all just one big beautiful journey/hunt for the nearest toilet haha
Christian, you captured my eye with your photography and cinematography. That's why I subbed. Plus, I think you're helping a lot of young people with your road life experience. I'll keep tuning in, you keep up the content! BTW, I love being alone. one man, one mission, simple.
Dear Christian, I had the same experience when my father completely disagreed with me when in my early thirties, after a painful break-up, I decided to work in Greece in a holiday resort as an entertainer (evening shows) and sailing instructor. I did this for a few years and it was the best real life therapy I could have chosen at that time. It restored my self-confidence, improved my social skills (I'm also an introvert by nature) and I made great friendships as well. You can't please everyone in life, you just have to do what you have to do. My father never understood this and did nothing but criticising but it is enough that I understood and some good people around me. You're a wonderful authentic woman with many talents so go for it and don't conform too much to the rules of society. They are made to keep us in slavery anyway. Greetings and love from Belgium.
I agree, you are a different person. It appears you are at peace with sharing the story about decisions related to your lifestyle choices. One thing is obvious, happiness suits you 😊. Keep sharing with your followers. We have all dealt with life's choices as we live life. Difference is you have made choices which are your own. Best advise I've ever heard is " you will seldom regret things that you do in life but more often will regret the things you decided not to do". 😊
Great job spilling the beans Christian! I appreciated the chit-chat, the nitty-gritty of vanlife. I'm getting ready to retire, and I've built an overlander Jeep, and an accompanying enclosed trailer. I've studied a lot of materials, and also being a prepper, I'm ready to hit the back roads of western USA. I've observed over the last few years, how you do what you do. Yes, I take notes... Thus, a big thank you for being you, what you do, your photography, your lifestyle. Stay safe, drive safe. I'm hoping our paths will cross. Take care. Rick from Port Angeles, WA.!
Due to lack of income without going to work everyday , i cant join vanlife yet , but sometime in my retirement years i will leave to see as many places as i can , for at least 1 year , im an introvert as well , and for me living my days in a different place is like paradise , best thing vanlife teaches u is u really dont need much to be happy
I love these videos! I fetch myself a cup of tea, a cozy seat, hit "full screen," and just pretend I'm sitting across the way from a caring friend who just wants to be helpful and supportive. Thank you! 🤗 Your generous spirit comes through in every video you share. They are kind, authentic and a joy to watch. Again, THANK YOU!🌻
We are graduating.. slowly. we were camping in tents for years and loving it, but we are the first to admit, it was a fair weather lifestyle. five years ago we bought a VW Eurovan, no kitchen , no pop-up , a low roof but it was a great way to travel. a year ago we got a Promaster 2500 HR and OMG what a difference. We could stand up, we had a furnace, an outdoor shower and a toilet, a real bed! At 68, the comforts of a real-life make a difference. As a photographer on the road, you have been an inspiration. Yes, a different niche, but still the same life.
Great job Christian! I am 61 y/o, I've been disabled with multiple back issues for 8 years now. I've been living in a 1 bedroom apartment in public housing in NH. I am also an extreme introvert, and never really have fit in in our society, so that won't be anything new. I really enjoy hearing all you've learned, thank you for sharing. I do hope to save enough money soon to buy a used van to start to build out, I want to see the rest of the country, but doing a test in a Prius at my age with a bad back wouldn't be a good start. I want to know as much as I can before spending much on this dream. Thank you for sharing. I do hope you continue with the plan of weekly talks and the monthly "Dreamland" videos. Be well.
As a fellow introvert and weirdo I think you are far from boring and I think you’re absolutely amazing. Society is a difficult world to maneuver but you have to live the life that’s best for you. If you’re ever going to visit in the South western Idaho area I’d be willing to give you tips for beautiful places to visit.
I grew up lower middle class. I think you seem really insightful for people like me when it comes to this lifestyle. The fact you think $15 for a single shower vs $30 for a monthly gym membership speaks to this. I worked hard, but my income had peaked at about $100,000/yr, and it just doesn't seem like enough to fully participate in the rat race. My career is the opposite of work from home. I need to be present to do it. Travel pay is 50-100% more than regular pay. I've thought about doing van life 6-9 months a year and enjoying the country in my off time. I'm getting really tempted...
“Throw away money on rent” is a common saying that was created to keep people from seeing the value of being able to move around. Renting let’s you live somewhere and move when you get bored.
Thank you for making this video. The societal shame is definitely a thing one has to think about, as extended family can be extremely rude and judgmental. It can hurt, even if you know what you’re doing and want to do, it can plant a little worm in your brain that is very upsetting. Thanks for being honest without sensationalism
I really appreciate your honesty and openness about your wins and hurdles! The bang idea was fun! I know how challenging it can be to not have a permanent address, especially for things like getting a credit card or the new Apple savings account. I think this format suits you very well, and it allows you to express your creative side with photos less frequently. I’ve noticed that many of the RU-vidrs I follow have quit or slowed down their postings. Your idea seems like a great way to keep your content fresh and engaging, and I think more RU-vidrs should consider it. I wish you all the best on your nomadic journey!
First, love this new format. I'm sure you've been waiting to get a lot of these comments off your chest and be able to answer many of the questions you get from your subscribers in more detail. Thank you for experimenting with this, and going into such detail regarding work/life balance. Second, no bangs, please. Can't wait for part two and will be re-looking the videos you previously posted again. Take care of yourself.
Thank you for talking about the stigma of life on the road. Last year I lived out of my Tesla Model 3 by choice to adventure more and save money and I got a lot of shade from my friends and family when I told them I was JUST THINKING of moving into my car. My mom told me that she would cry if I chose to live out of my car for a period of time, but I still wanted to have my adventure! So I lied to everyone about where I was living. If it didn't work out, no one would know. If it did work out (which it did) I would fess up later and be grateful not to lie anymore. Holding a lie for months is tricky. I fessed up later after a few months and I still felt shame from SOME of my friends and family, but my new lifestyle on the road was really working well for me and I enjoyed it. Anyway, thanks for making these videos! They've been super helpful.
Thank you so much for sharing three reality of can life. I love seeing the dream, the perfect parts, but I also really appreciate the reality. I'm transitioning from tiny living to nomadic so the more info I can get from you and the other veterans, the better. ❤❤❤
I watch a few vanlifers, what I have seen quite a bit is people make friends and meet up for a bit before going their separate ways. Eventually someone stops vanlife but is very willing to host a friend for a bit if family is not available. I very much enjoyed seeing your sense of humor, it complements the scenic views very well.
Great video, Christian! I bought a van back in September and I am fortunate enough to still have a small place to call home part of the time. Even with that, there are still some frustrations you run into here and there. That being said.. I am so mad I did not get a van earlier to explore and travel this incredible country we live in.
One possible alternative that makes this lifestyle much easier to adjust to and enjoy, IMHO, is to upgrade to something like a slide-in truck camper. Full ( but small) bathroom including shower, much more space, storage, etc… If you have a 4x4 truck, then you can take it almost anywhere you can take a van, if not even more places. Larger fresh, gray, and black tanks plus room for a second battery, large propane tanks, and greater solar capacity Al combine for a much more convenient, comfortable, and enjoyable experience without changing the nature of the experience like a pull-behind would do. I also like being able to drop the camper and take my truck down the road to a trailhead, into town, etc… without having to pack up my entire home every time. I look into a van and instantly think, “No possible way” I’d enjoy going without so many things I consider necessities. Great advice and information and very sincere and balanced, sharing the good, bad, and ugly of permanent roaming. You gave folks a lot of very important things to think about!!!!
It think the points you discuss are real issues that people should think about before jumping in head first. Thank you. Luckily, I have a home that is now paid for and a small RV for adventuring. I worked 25 years in the horseracing industry and loved that lifestyle but left for a "real" job to provide a better life for my son. I did well. I made good money but it was like prison most of the time. I crave the outdoors. I am retired now and spend as much time as I can camping, hiking or painting art.
Thank you for sharing your upbringing, background, and some of the real challenges of van life. I admire your independence and perseverance of doing what you want to do. Keep it up. You and your work are meant to be shared with the world.
This is so raw, real and well put. I have fantasized for years about getting away from the daily grind of society, though due to family obligations, that isn't in my cards. I am a complete introvert too and isolation is a positive for me. That being said, please remember, people make snap, ignorant judgements on others and push their opinions on those not like them because they too are stuck. If someone was completely secure in who they are and the choices they've made, they wouldn't force their judgements on strangers. They want you to play by the same rules society has institutionalized because they feel like they have to. I would venture a guess that most are insecure, jealous or just in a bad place in their lives. You might hear from all of the trolls, but there are 10x, 100x, more people that admire and support your decisions and much more mature insights. You just might not hear from all of them. Now go cash in that trust fund!
I love how raw you are! really putting yourself out there! Really laying it out as you see it! I know you're experimenting with this new format, and while its nice to see all the places you get to show us in your videos, I'm loving this.
This is really cool stuff. As an introvert who's about to retire, this is inspiring. My wife and I have been looking for what our next adventure might be. Though I don't think we'd technically "live" in a van or RV, having something like what you have seems like a fun way to get around and explore for long periods of time.
One of the best explanations/descriptions of what it means to vanlife full-time. You pointed out many challenges that some RU-vidrs have brought up but never really explained what it really MEANS to you when you choose this lifestyle. Well done.
I would pay a million dollars or even do anything just to live your lifestyle. People will always talk and complain, and I just think it is irrelevant. Your life and your choice matter more than anything else. A fantastic content video, as always!
Thanks for an honest description of ALL the challenges that one might have while living the Van Life. You mentioned lots of things that I never even thought about. I couldn't live on the road since I am really addicted to a routine that includes a lot of exercise and a fixed home. I do, however, see the advantages of your lifestyle. Keep the videos coming. Yours are always thought provoking.
I absolutely love your artistic videos, they feed my soul! But these "chat" sessions are so helpful so more of these would be great too. Thanks for all of it, we appreciate you!! 🙏 ❤🌿
i am an extrovert and i like meeting neighbors while camping. but, if i sense someone is a loner or not social i respect that and leave them be. we all have a story and i can learn a lot whether they are younger or older ! its part of the excitement of traveling and being suprised by who we meet !
You became known as a van-lifer, but at at this point it seems to me you are more of just a lifer. You present art, experience, wonder, and you just happen to be living in a van. It sounds like you are seriously considering changing to a different lifestyle, and just like you were brave to get on the road, I hope you can be brave to get off it if that's what you want to do. Your audience is going to stay with you either way!
Very informative Christian, on so many levels. Thank you. You are doing it right. Do it while you're young. I am now 67, have a wife, two daughters and their husbands with two grandchildren. I love them all very much. I have been able to get out on the road since my daughters finished high school. Usually for about four months in the summer. I still love finding what is over the next hill.
Decadence is the next moral imperative. Might sound silly, as it's difficult to communicate in a RU-vid comment, but it's always top of mind for me as I'm working on an economic/social theory to address this issue. The way you're living is self-sufficient and therefore moral. Well within the parameters of a lifestyle everyone in society could live simultaneously. Your Dad just doesn't know better. He hasn't transcended the insecurities we evolved as hunters and gatherers in much leaner times. Now we've been thrust (in evolutionary time scales) into a paradigm of obscene abundance by comparison. These once constructive insecurities that motivated our ancestors to gather enough for their cave to make it through winter are now irrational. That motivated drive now manifests as decadence and ego. The corruption of governments and huge class imbalances will persist until we solve this issue. That's why the wealthiest, most abundant country in human history doesn't care for its mentally ill. There's a much better way, and living self-sufficiently is part of it.
Love this style! It's so refreshing to hear the realness about the vanlife lifestyle and truly appreciate the insight on areas that not a lot of people think about prior to jumping in on this lifestyle.
This is just what I needed to hear today. I live in my vehicle mostly by choice but sometimes not so much but I want to. I still struggle with the stigma but I haven't found a job that works out to where I would pay for an apartment. I'm happy in my car and hope my RU-vid channel will grow some day.
Love your telling your story format. I’m sure it required a lot of planning. You do a great job of explaining your reasons for living this lifestyle. Your try b4 u buy comments, give people thinking about this lifestyle, a roadmap for seeing if it’s right for them. Selfishly I like your adventure videos, but I see that there is so much work, in making them. Looking forward to your upcoming chapters of exposing your lifestyle.
Thanks Christina. Good vid. Can so relate to introvert with extrovert tendencies. Also, covering more in depth regarding the lifestyle was very informative. Every year I do an epic road trip with my son and its 100% camping/boondocking for 3 to 4 weeks. So, got a good taste myself over the last few years. Your right it is not for everyone, but for those who can go with the flow (even if its for 3-4weeks at a time) you can see a lot of country and maintain a budget. When I retire I will likely spend a good portion of the year doing exactly this. Thinking of putting a small cabin on my property and renting out the house. That way I have a home base (the cabin) and an income (rent from the house) to help out the budget and not having a residence vacant for long periods of time. Happy balance/best of both worlds maybe?
I love that you're so honest about the cons of living on the road, as well as all 'the good stuff'. I too am an introvert, and I really loved that you talked about how lonely it can get, but made the point - which people overlook - how you can be lonely anywhere. I wish I had the courage to try this (for a couple of weeks anyway). I love your channel and how personable you seem - even as an introvert. :)
I am now 62. Ever since I can remember, wanderlust has drawn me from so deep within that I can’t separate it from how I feel about everyday life. The same goes for my absolute adoration of the natural world; I don’t think I could be happy or live without it. As a young boy, I read, “My Side of the Mountain”, and wanted to live alone in the woods, surviving off nature. Later, as a teen here in Japan, I took a month off and bicycled around the northern island of Hokkaido with my brother and best friend, back when most of Hokkaido still had only dirt roads, and lots of wild land. It was a trip of a lifetime, and strongly influenced my passion for traveling by walking, bicycling, or kayak. Near the end of high school I saved up money and planned a bicycle journey around the world, and was all set to go, until my father stepped in and vehemently opposed what he called my “foolish, immature dreaming”. We had a big fight, and he shamed me by threatening to withhold any financial support, unless I went to university. And that’s what I ended up doing, giving up my big dream. Over the years I went on a lot of journeys, in the mountains, in different countries, to some unforgettable places. I even took six months off to bicycle around Europe back in the 90’s, and they were all wonderful trips, and cherished memories. I can’t say that I didn’t enjoy my life and experience things that most people never get to do. I’ve gained a helluva lot of experience, understanding how to survive in the outdoors, learn about the natural world, intimately learn nature photography and drawing, and writing, how to fix bicycles, survive outdoors all year, make my own outdoor gear, and meet and befriend quite a few extraordinary people who love the world the same way. However, to this day, 45 years later, I still regret not having taken off on that round-the-world bicycle touring journey. I still dream of it, still wish I had been braver and stood my ground. My life would have been completely different, and I suspect, closer to how I wanted to live. So, Christian, don’t mind what others say. There will always be different opinions and views of how to live a life. Despite the hardships and ofttimes loneliness and sense of being lost, you took the road that most appealed to you heart and who you are. You were courageous. I can’t tell you how much I respect you for that, and, yes, to some extent, envy you. Bravo for taking the road less traveled! You speak to the dreams and aspirations of many people. It’s a joy and comfort to know there are people out there on the edge of the real world, living on their own terms and being one with the world. By the way, starting next year, after I've set up my remote business and established a small home base here in Japan, and another with my partner in Malaysia, we're going to start our own nomadic venture around the world, part of it by bicycle, part long-distance hiking, and part by van travel. So you've definitely been an inspiration!
What a story! You sound like an awesome person, I bet we would get along great. I'm currently in my 30s forcing myself to finish school on the 3rd or 4th attempt after repeatedly uprooting/traveling/wandering (in and out of the military twice) and putting myself in a tenuous position financially and career wise. I did a pretty big bicycle tour through southeast Asia but chickened out when it came time to cross into China (sounded too stressful). Hopefully there are some remote software jobs left for me after school so I can live full time in my truck-camper parked in front of my apartment... but if not, I'll be busting my ass like no other building my skills and bank account so I can eventually hit the road forever. As a person who slips into existential crisis mode way too easily, I know I can't settle down and work permanently at a job I know doesn't really matter and is probably just based on some arbitrary market demand that has nothing to do with improving the average person's quality of life. I'm closing in on 40, and feel like kind of a clown for never committing fully to either of the two paths I've vacillated between but I know what needs to happen. I'll find true freedom or die trying.
Claudia you are amazing and an inspiration to all .....I am a 53 year old women who dreams of hitting the road and seeing the world .....one day....for now ill continue to watch your beautifullly created videos ....thank you for your honesty and guidance xx
Well said, Christian, and it's sad people think like this. I get many strange looks when people see my Rav (but on a positive note, I can only transport one person, so group outings are funny). Just last week, someone got into the "draining on society" and said "glorified homeless," but then I mentioned a trip this person recently took. They flew in, got a hotel, ate out a few times, and flew back. I took the same trip two years ago, drove in, went to all the excellent local coffee shops, found local hangouts, and the best part was slowing down. And can't wait for part 2, this stuff is always fun to hear about!
Hi Christian, I retired from the Army on Mar 11 23, and am living the van life rewards and challenges. I am currently in the Washington DC area, I spent last week in Bethany Beach, DE, and am now in the Shenandoah mountains for a few days. I have been a little lonely though, and have mixed feelings. Three days ago I was going to buy a house and move home to Ohio. Thanks for you help with this video. I am in an incognito 2014 Ram Promaster extended one with a high roof--I have all of the amenities inside...
Excellent vid Christian. I'm in Australia so the rules are slightly different but you gave a lot of food for thought and l'll be watching the next one. I commented last year about my Alzheimers mum which l dont expect you to remember. She passed away in December. My brother passed away 10 days before her. So shit just got real. Grabbing all and any info on van life so yr vid was perfect timing. Please keep it up! ❤
You have a wealth of knowledge and it was so kind of you to put this video out to help future van lifers. I think your viewers will watch this style and the artistic videos just the same. Well done!
This is video was super insightful. I hate that anyone who plays by different rules, or thinks outside the box is punished for it by our modern system. The world is so much more amazing and diverse when we appreciate our differences. Thank you for the continued inspiration and for being so real and vulnerable on your videos.
Hi there - I'm relatively new to your channel, Christian. I've always aspired to do as you've decided to do. I nearly purchased a van in 2016 and built it out (I'm a craftsman and DIY guy). After much research, soul searching and the self-doubt about whether I could do this or not, and I opted to move to Colorado (Aspen) and still after that move - I still find myself with a thirst yet not quenched as yet. You're channel, Instagram, Website are bar none - the best I've seen in many verticals. You're authentic, honest, kind and compassionate - these are all adjectives that quickly come to mind when I watch your creativity. Kudos, Christian...Kudos indeed. 🤟
No bangs. You? Boring? Hell no! You may not be sure what dream you're chasing, but you've been bold enough to take the road less often travelled, and kind enough to share some of the wonderful things you've seen. Thank you, Christian.
When I was in my 20s I built a 24’ sailboat and took off cruising. When in mainland Mexico my dad came to visit for two weeks. The visit had been promoted by my grandfather. He told my dad that he needed to go down to Mexico and talk some sense into me. That I needed to be working and settling down like a normal person. I had no idea what the true reason of my dads visit was until the last day when he was headed to the airport. For two weeks we met people, went on surf trips, cruised the coast with whales, had potlucks on island beaches with other cruisers, etc. We were just too busy having fun for him to find the right moment to have the ‘talk’. He had the best time of his life! He literally confessed why he came down and in the next sentence told me that he had just had the most amazing experience of his life. I had his complete approval, something that he had spent a lifetime trying to get from his father. As he was leaving I told him I loved him. My dad was a hardened professional soldier as was his dad and his brother, my uncle. Though I always knew he loved us kids I had never heard the word love come from his mouth. That day, at the airport in Mexico, when I was 29 years old, he responded “I love you too son!” That was the first time in my life that I had heard him say that to me. That two weeks changed him! It would be four years and several oceans before I’d see him again. And now at 65, looking back on the chapters of my life, that was one of the most amazing chapters. I love your life Christian!
I think living on the road is every child's dream! The idea of so much freedom but maybe not so much responsibility. I can say now, as a 35 year old full fledged adult, mother, wife, in a house in a suburb, that still sounds really nice. For a long time I have tried not doing things just because "that is the way it is done", but am always asking myself if it is the best thing for me and my family. Because of this, our life feels crazy and a little lonely, even though we are surrounded by lots of people, we don't have that much in common with any of them. We ended up in a suburb kind of unexpectedly and don't know what we are doing next. There is sooo much pressure in our society for doing things "the normal way", I might go so far as to say especially as a mother? But there are really good things about the normal way too. I am starting to see how being in a stable place can actually be good for kids. Having your kids in classes can be good for them to accomplish new things with new people.
Last year , I was worried about you and your state of mind. This video has put all that to rest. I think your on the right track with the monthly "dream-like" videos and this weekly talk format. I believe it allows you to maintain balance. Keep up the great work and be safe!
So well spoken. Really. The garbage problem, noise , owners of private property keeping campers out or insurance for land owners against squaters. keep up the great work. Be safe.
Dear Christian. Thank you for sharing this 'chat' on your Van Life experiences and thoughts on it. Some of them did shine through your video's, a lot of them are new... It is great to hear them in one post. Looking forward for Van Life Talk II. Since I've found your Channel, I've been thinking if it really would be something for me. Your video provides a lot food for thought, great insights and your openess on it: super. Please keep on creating new views on Nature and your life, very inspiring! Greetings again for the other side of the Atlantic.
You bring up great points. These are some of the biggest obstacle for homeless people in America. Society complains about homelessness, but they make laws and regulations to make it very difficult for a person to get out of that situation.
Great insightful video Christian! Is it funny how humans have spent most of time as nomads but now it is considered unacceptable by “society”. I believe that the “wanderers “ gene is just a lot stronger in some of us. really enjoyed this new format.
Hi !! New suscriber from France here :) I like the way you share your van life experiences and thanks for this, not to mention the quality of you work on YT.. Real artjob. You maybe are an introvert human being, but the way you talk to us and your honesty about everything comes from the deep YOU, and it makes you .... quite unique, i must say. I look a lot of van life channels, but honestly, yours touches me hard ( in the good way ...) Being retired and single now, i really consider this way of life as a valuable alternative for me .. Thanks again , can't wait for part 2 :))
I love this type of real talk video. Thank you for being so raw and honest. All of the pros you made for van life make me want to do it. At the same time all of the cons you made for not doing it are all the same reasons I don’t want to do it. However, the lifestyle we live now is one that many would consider in the fridge of society so I totally relate to everything you are saying. The only thing I do know is that I am in the spot I am meant to be for right now. It doesn’t have to be Permanent and I fully expect it to change again in a few years. I just try to stay open and flexible to whatever may come my way. Anyway, thanks again for sharing. I love hearing your perspective!!!
Oh - My - Gosh!!! Christian, I couldn’t even wait to completely finish your video to comment, what you’re embarking on is so cool! The fact that you’d like to help people who want to learn if van life is for them would indeed be quite a story. And while van life is a good place to start, you should go back and listen to yourself in this video as you’re reciting all of the ways people busted your chops about van life. Do you know how many different things a person could do to get a similar reaction from people? The possibilities are endless!!! Like a few others who’s comments I’ve read over the time I’ve listened to your blog, I’ve recently retired, and while that’s all I’ll say about it for the moment, I will tell you that your story is not as much about van life as you think! It’s about pursuing your dreams! Think about that. Your videos are always great, but there was something especially special about this one, above all others! So much so, that I couldn’t wait to share a few comments with you. I think you’re off to another phase of your journey, and think about everyone watching your video was here to see it happen! Good luck!
You should be proud of yourself Christian. Your family, distant or not should support what you are doing. There is absolutely nothing wrong with this lifestyle. It takes courage and you have proven impeccable ethics. I have tried once to live off my car, after I put all belongings in storage and only bring with me the essentials. I did this for 14 days and it was the most liberating, freedom feeling. No mortgage / no rent and utilities to pay. I must say this happened by ricochet as I was on my way to a job site and it turned out NOT to be what I have been told. So I have decided to make the best out of it and explore. Now I want to do this again but for a year, in a more organized setting like in a van same as yours. 🇨🇦☯️☮️😎🇺🇸
Great video. I’ve been living van life for 2-years. I love this lifestyle. Before retiring a few years ago I was a Marketing Manager for an aircraft avionics corporation. With 50 years video and photography experience I became burnt out on the fast pace of the corporate world. I still do lots of video and photography but for me and not the man. Thanks for your honesty and may peace be with you.
Happy birthday Christian!! 💥💫I believe I know how young you are, but a gentleman never discusses such things. Thank you so much for sharing your life. Stay safe. ❤🙏
So beautifully said! We all have needs, desires and sense of self and adventure. Why do we allow other to judge us? Screw them. They are not living our lives. Do what feels right for you as long as you are respectful to yourself and others. Life is short.
Rich, well presented content. Appreciated your comic relief. We spend 25-30% of our time on the road, and we have been working remotely and on the road for 25 years. We can relate strongly to people thinking you are on the edge. Look forward to more chapters in your chronicle. Thanks for sharing.
After skipping over your videos for awhile, I decided to watch this one. Great job! Just what I wanted to see from you. Don't be afraid to reveal you being you. Lots of great information, too. Nicely done.
This was SUPER helpful. I'm literally about to start living on the road full time in a few months, and your vids have been among those I've followed closely, trying to learn all I can before I launch myself into this full time. Thank you!
