I’ve Lived in a Vehicle for Three Years. I Now Have $150K

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How much can you save by living in a vehicle instead of paying rent? In this video, I breakdown my expenses of living in my van vs living in my SUV vs living in my old apartment. Hopefully this financial overview will give you an idea of what costs to expect, and how much you might save by living on the road
2:20 Insurance
3:30 Phone + Internet
3:55 Utilities
6:12 Gas
7:58 Vehicle Maintenance
9:17 Food
10:21 Gym Membership
10:54 Storage Unit
11:14 Private Mailbox
11:27 Hotels, Airbnbs, Campsites
12:41 Subscriptions + Software
13:13 Parking
13:50 Taxes
14:24 Rent
15:36 How Much I Saved
17:45 Is Van Life Affordable?
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Hey :) I’m Christian Schaffer, and I’ve lived on the road full-time since May 2018. This journey began in 2013 when I left the corporate world to build my career as an outdoor adventure & travel photographer. As a semi-minimalist, I eventually decided to donate/sell most of my belongings and move into my 4x4 Nissan Xterra. After 14 months of SUV living and falling madly in love with the open road - I bought a van and hired a team to build it out. Van life enables me to experience and document the beauty of our natural world on a whole new level, all while having my home and office nearby. My hope is that by sharing my own personal highs and lows along this (sometimes) wild journey, you might be inspired to hit the road or spend more time outdoors. Maybe one day I'll see you out on that open road 🚐
*My van is a 2019 Ram ProMaster 1500 High Roof, 136" WB with 27K miles*
#vanlife #digitalnomad #selfemployed

Опубликовано:

18 июн 2024

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Комментарии : 2 тыс.

@U2JEN2U 3 года назад

I was living paycheck to paycheck, moved into my SUV and am now living on 3% of my income. It's not all 💩's and giggles but, it is way worth it not having worry about an apartment and ... STUFF. I am much happier and sleep EXTREMELY WELL at night. SEE YA ON THE ROAD !!!

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

It's amazing how much stuff we accumulate and then pay to protect and maintain and ultimately didn't need in the first place. Props to you 🙌🏼

@Javbdjp 2 года назад

@Cptnjenks 2 года назад

Living in the uk our vehicles are a bit smaller (and the weather is worse) so having looked at camping out in my suv I've found it's a bit too small. 😔 hope to do a van conversion at some point though (when I can get a better job and can afford it)

@OZ01209 2 года назад

Yeah, I've been paying $90 a month on a storage unit full of crap for 7 years... Do the math... Why do we get stuck in Rutt's??? For me, it was largely because I was living for other people and not myself. Better late than never to make that shift.

@aliceinreality2815 2 года назад

@@Cptnjenks when I lived in my car I bounced between car life and pet/house sitting, quite often you can find long term house/pet sits over winter 👍

@Likeaworm 2 года назад

"We buy shit we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like"

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

Indeed 🤓

@monnaprovost7294 2 года назад

Zachary, stop doing that!

@raia9 2 года назад

Your quoting George Carlin - credit where credit is due :)

@gelo414 2 года назад

@@raia9 you are giving him too much credit, he probably was quoting Brad Pitt in Fight Club

@all4jesusall4him37 2 года назад

Dave Ramsey!

@blackspiderman1887 2 года назад

I'm a truck driver. I decided to stop paying rent because I was sleeping in my sleeper bed 5 days a week. Now I just kick it with my friend on the weekends. Saving $800 a month.

@FortyTwoAnswerToEverything 2 года назад

just $800?? That must have been outside a major city. One bedrooms are now going for average $1100 now

@beverlyb6391 2 года назад

I've been traveling off n on for about 40+ years. Some of the places I've loved have just gone bad. Other places I wouldn't have considered are now great.

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

Love that 🙌🏼

@lawpenner 2 года назад

What about Airbnb for the two days a week you need it?

@blackspiderman1887 2 года назад

@@lawpenner that would work too.

@21scottgibson 3 года назад

I love the "If I can't buy it upfront, I don't buy it" philosophy. I feel like it's so lacking in todays world.

@mdzaid5925 2 года назад

Going with this, one can never buy a house

@churninanburnin 2 года назад

@kl2j3423 my parents are very smart with their money. they live that mantra of if they couldnt pay cash for it, they didnt buy, aside from house payments and vehicle payments, they paid cash for everything. They actually paid their house of early by living this way.

@krissyhall2838 2 года назад

I live by that lol avoid debt like a plague.

@BF-27 2 года назад

Because too many people feel they are entitled to things, regardless of whether they actually have the money for it.

@jimmylegs06 2 года назад

Interest: the penalty of sacrificing future time because you cant afford it now.

@stevencournoyer4191 3 года назад

I’ve been living in my van for a year now. I have a great career and all that money I used to spend on expenses now goes in the bank. I have zero debt and the freedom that I never thought was possible. Thank you for sharing your story.

@williamlewis3582 3 года назад

Three years for me the freedom is crazy.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

That's awesome. The freedom is just too good to pass up - I don't think I could ever justify paying rent again.

@joseville 3 года назад

What do you use to stay connected to internet? So you can be productive.

@cvick44 3 года назад

Hey Steven, what about showers. I want to try the van life without a shower in van. I was thinking maybe I could shower at the gym. Got any tips?

@williamlewis3582 3 года назад

@@cvick44 Get a planet fitness gym membetship 24 hrs you will have excess to everrything there.

@socialstew 3 года назад

The other benefit of living on the road when you're younger is knowing and experiencing where you'll want to live when you're older.

@adelia1419 3 года назад

Definitely!! I’m 17, I’ve been living in my van for the past year and I plan to be for the coming year. When I’m 18 and can actually buy a house or apartment I for sure have some ideas that were born from my van living adventures.

@lh4265 3 года назад

I wonder if Christian has answered this question in any of her previous videos? Does anyone know?

@hellraiser888 3 года назад

@@adelia1419 how do you do school bruh that’s so cool

@adelia1419 3 года назад

@@hellraiser888 I actually don’t do school (I dropped out) but once I’m 18 and can enroll myself in classes I’m going to finish highschool online :-)

@votesudanusa 3 года назад

@@adelia1419 Rich and spoiled? Who can pay for and live in a van at 16? You don't attend a school?

@alanmacquarrie1672 2 года назад

For me I would only save 20k at most living out of a car for 3 years. I've saved 32k the past few years by living in a small apartment in a smaller town vs. a really nice one. Living well below your means is a good strategy to get ahead.

@usa2342 2 года назад

You probably don’t have any kids or pets?

@alanmacquarrie1672 2 года назад

Waiting on having kids/pets is another good way to save money. They get expensive.

@debrawilliams4744 2 года назад

I’m moving 2 states away to find a cheap Apt. in June. Downsizing big time to make the move cheaper.

@usa2342 2 года назад

@@debrawilliams4744 have you looked into manufacture/mobile homes? They can be very nice and budget friendly

@debrawilliams4744 2 года назад

@@usa2342…. I’m downsizing and moving back to a small town where I don’t know anyone. I want a low maintenance and temporary place where I can wait out the economy / housing situation. I plan on writing a book during the next year in peace away from city life. It’s been my goal for a long time, and now’s the best time to do it.

@inthesun3884 2 года назад

Fellow Washingtonian here. You’re a smart woman living your dream so you can live your life without the stress of debt.

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

👋🏻👋🏻

@moses777exodus 3 года назад

Phone ... $135; Gas ... $195; Food ... $250; "Being able to sit by the campfire and see the stars at night before falling asleep, being able to wake up with the sunrise, and having the freedom and feeling of not being tethered to any one place" ... priceless.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Exactly. Couldn’t agree more 😉

@pkell7315 3 года назад

@@lifesabeach5405 Wow what town and County do you live in pa ?

@votesudanusa 3 года назад

@@lifesabeach5405 The VAN sounds like it is probably better than your house. Now, stop insulting people through misspelled words and let these people live. Your life is your life. Their life is their life

@Luigi13 3 года назад

@@lifesabeach5405 Each person has his or her own engineering design to a lifestyle they see to fit into. Your idea is also one of those and it sounds like is serving you well. Cheers.

@michelleocampo3708 3 года назад

@@lifesabeach5405 To each their own!!

@eloyrodarte1083 2 года назад

My apartment became an expensive storage unit. I gave it up and moved into a van. I'm happier and the freedom to go anywhere I want is fantastic. Living in the van has opened up lots of opportunity's that weren't available before. The ability to go work a short term job and not have to sign a six month lease or pay a large amount to a motel has made things so much easier.

@raulrangel6361 2 года назад

How does this affect your relationships? Do you plan on dating?

@Wubby805 2 года назад

@@raulrangel6361 women date homeless men just released from jail. Living in a van is a step-up from what the Classy Ladies are used to.

@MiamiPush2theLimit 2 года назад

@@Wubby805 but is that the kind of woman you’d want to “date”?

@damha3157 Год назад

You will make it my friend

@mariamaria2751 Год назад

@@Wubby805 lol that's funny

@ColinAdventures 2 года назад

I lived in West Seattle and decided to live in my car because of the extremely high rent. I upgraded to a skoolie very quickly. Unfortunately I still have a 9-5 that I work at just north of Seattle but the rate I’ve been able to save money/pay off debt has been really crazy. Nice to see I’m not the only one saving money this way!

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

It’s pretty wild how expensive homes have become - especially in the Seattle area

@drivewithbishop4426 2 года назад

I lived on Alki, it was cool for a summer, but it's way over priced.

@mackenziemalone4116 Год назад

Where do you stay overnight if you live in a city? I live near LA and want to stay near my job but kinda worried about where I’d be able to sleep legally + safely

@Bones97000 Год назад

I’m wondering the same as Mackenzie. I work a regular 9-5 and am concerned about where I’d park every night if I were to choose vanlife.

@Weathernerd27 Год назад

'i heave heard the average van costs 40k and the coversion is 30k = 70k total. Wouldn''t you have a big monthly payment if you tried to finance 70k? Wouldn't it be hard to save money with that big car payment? I live in West Seattle as well but I have to drive as far as Redmond and Olympia for work so I strongly considering living in a Van 5 days a week and comming back to my condo on the weekend. The trouble is with the big Condo payment I can't afford much of a car payment. A big part of why my parents were able to retire in their early 60's was their house was mostly paid off so I don't want to give up the condo unless I absolutely have to although I guess if I saved a huge amount of money that would have the same effect as paying off a house.

@wisenber 2 года назад

The "secret" isn't the van. The secret is finding sources of income that exceed your baseline expenses and not buying stuff with the surplus. That works on land, sea or air. If you don't have excess income, you don't have savings. I kept an apartment that I rarely saw for several years while I worked on the road as a contractor. While on the road, my hotel, plane tickets and rental car were paid by the customer and I received per diem for food. I'd work 60-70 hours a week and take a few long weekend vacations a year. After three years, I bought a modest house for cash, set aside some reserves and put the rest in low cost index funds. I then worked that way for about another six years and moved up to the house I have now with cash and more savings. All through that time, I avoided buying stuff and kept and older model vehicle with no payments. The biggest thing I did was not borrowing to buy anything. I imagine my credit score is near zero as I have no debt payment history.

@lilspnce49 2 года назад

It can be very challenging finding that extra good income. Thank u for sharing your story. It is inspiring

@nleem3361 2 года назад

That's a hard way to live. I tried it for a year. I was mostly working on one project that was near a small mountain town. It was beautiful there, but had it's challenges. Like the small grocery store closing at 7pm and so did the restaurants, so if went on a weekend adventure. And then didn't finish my paperwork quickly in the evening, I'd be stuck trying to make a meal from the convince store. I'm not a good planner, so this happened a few times. I also lived in a pull behind a truck camper because there wasn't any place to live in town, and the hotel was more expensive than the per diem... I decided that I'd rather live in one place to make good friends and have a life after work.

@wisenber 2 года назад

@B Babbich I worked on IT. The opportunity was there for anyone that wanted it. Most just don't want to work overtime when younger to bank for when you're older.

@wisenber 2 года назад

@@nleem3361 I just frontloaded my working years to have more options and no debt later. You might have a nice time recalling that evening spent with friends twenty years ago, but you'll appreciate not having to worry about money at all even more. I still enjoy my work. I just don't need to work for income now. However, it is nice knowing that putting in five hours a week will cover my expenses I do have.

@mikearchibald744 2 года назад

I started working in IT but then hated it. Almost everybody I know who works in IT hates it and almost all are constantly looking for that 'outside income' that will let them quit. On another van site a lady talks about how she started a logistics company and basically works as an importer exporter, but no other details. Many IT workers I know work half a year on contract but don't save much because they are burnt out after the hours and need months to decompress. So I"m poor, but do work I love. Work is MOST of your life, so if you don't love it, no matter where you live you are in a prison most of the time. But thats true about saving. When I looked at this I was thinking that if you are paying $1000 in rent in some podunk town then really you DON"T have $150,000, you have $36000. Thats all that is being saved. For three years thats $50,000 a year, minus gas, food, and whatever was spent to get the van, which for SOME of these vans is almost what you'd pay in rent for a year or two and if its a newer truck, then you have just blown $60,000 just for that vehicle, no gas, so if you CAN work from home, it makes more sense to move to some way out of the way location and rent or buy cheap. If you are in New York city or some other city getting gouged thats one thing, but then you move into your van and there is no place to park it so you need to move or get another job. So thats really a kind of crappy headline to put up, almost clickbait. Sometimes I wonder if its gas or car companies or interior design companies pushing all this. In SOME areas of course people have no choice and simply can't find living accomodations.

@juliedrake6279 3 года назад

You are one savvy lady. I wish I knew what you know when I was your age. You’re a powerful, confident, independent role model for all us females. Thanks so much for superb content.

@iantaylor2271 3 года назад

Totally agree, but would add a great role model and advice for men also. Thank you for the great video.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Wow, thanks for the love! 🙏🏻

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks Ian 🙌🏼

@votesudanusa 3 года назад

@@iantaylor2271 You need a woman to tell you how to do simple math? You need a woman as a role model? Something is off here...

@Andreabay90 2 года назад

what does female and having a vagina for example or breasts have to do with living in a van?

@mannys4036 3 года назад

One of the most comprehensive and authentic discussion on finances I've seen anywhere. It was incredibly detailed and affirmed the things I need to do before I hit the road. I have been tempted to hit the road sooner, but I don't want to crash and burn. I am older and have health concerns to incorporate as well. The information that you shared is going to help a lot of people if they respect it. I love how you progressively reached goal after goal. You should really be proud of how well you presented this information. Thank you.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks so much Manny, really happy to hear that it was helpful 😊🙏🏻

@LilyWasHereMB 2 года назад

I was going to comment oh yeah, but do you actually have all that money or is it just theoretical. I shut up, waited, watched, and she answered that honestly as well

@wille-annedulay5409 2 года назад

Yeah I’m

@BJenny38 2 года назад

We haven’t had a house or van payment for 40 years. It’s amazing how much more money we have when we aren’t paying interest. It was a sacrifice at first but now sooo worth it. When we make purchases,it has to be what we have the money up front to pay for. We eliminated the number one cause for divorce. I’m retired so I never had to ask my husband if I could buy makeup, a new computer, or clothes. We’ve always has separate bank accounts which I highly recommend for married couples. Expenses are his, hers, and ours.

@golf_n_hockey 2 года назад

Loved this video. I have been thinking about trying this lifestyle for quite some time. Thanks for breaking down the costs that is super helpful!

@thomasmason8033 3 года назад

This is amazing! This is super helpful. I’m still pretty new to vanlife and I love how you’ve really thought everything through and have it all figured out

@1scottbutcher 3 года назад

Thank you Christian, as always you give us plenty to think of. Thank you for the financial breakdown and it does give me something to put down on paper, a place to start and a goal to aim for.

@andyphan6176 2 года назад

Thanks for sharing Christian! It's courageous to pursue such lifestyle and doing it smartly. Learning a lot from your expenses breakdown!

@alanmurakami4837 2 года назад

Very comprehensive info, Christian! Great "reality check" for those thinking about hitting the road. 👍

@dorothylabounty8263 3 года назад

Thank you for being so honest and so detailed. It was really eye-opening.

@shaneschex1038 3 года назад

I think it's awesome that you have the rule, "If I can't pay for it up front, I don't buy it". I have that same rule for myself. My friends joke about me driving an older truck. I'd rather not have a note or have all that cash wrapped up in a newer truck. When the one I have runs fine. Definitely helped out during the start of the pandemic when work slowed down and I didn't have to worry because I built up a nice rainy day fund.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

I completely agree. I don't mind buying something new or expensive if I will use it often or really want it, but otherwise I think there is so much value in simply learning to live with less.

@Luigi13 3 года назад

@@ChristianSchaffer The USA since after the second WW, has been advertising big and more to the lifestyle. I noticed even the drinks and sandwiches that you buy from a fast food place they got larger and bigger as I drove from the East to the West. In Europe this whole idea takes a different dimension, and when people travel to those areas they seem to fancy or enjoy it and are surprised at the lifestyle, which in my view can be applied even here in the US. Never get influenced by anyone who tries to sell you anything that you know you don't need it, unless you see a good reason otherwise.

@racekrasser7869 2 года назад

crawl under a 'new truck' that they're building today, and realize things really have not changed much at all in them in the last damn near 100 years.

@annew1362 2 года назад

This is the best (and most realistic!) breakdown for van life I have seen. Thanks for doing it for those of us considering the life without major compromises 😎

@scotheman 2 года назад

As an aspiring van lifer, this video is extremely helpful, thank you. I see financial freedom ahead and it sounds amazing.

@davidhuth5659 3 года назад

This was awesome Christian. Thanks! I'm three years from retirement and hoping to live the van life. The practical nature of your videos is really helpful.

@Meandering_with_Megan 3 года назад

Great video, Christian! So much useful information! We are about to go full time in our camper, so this video was very helpful!

@wakiwan 2 года назад

Thank you, thank you, thank you... I have just started looking into life on the road and you are the first person who has taken the time to compare costs with different types of vehicles against renting. You put out an amazing amount of information in a rather short video which I have never seen before. I am considering traveling in some kind of rental vehicle to begin with. I am retired and live 7 blocks from the Manhattan Beach pier but like to travel mostly to various national parks and generally stay in hotels. Looking at the countless people that do what you are doing and seem to love it, I probably will go for longer trips and try living alone to see if I can do it and if I like it. Thank you again and I will look for your past and future adventures.....Al

@gthomasclark 2 года назад

Hi Christian- We’ve followed you since beginning a Covid Psych Van Reno Project in 2020. Thanks for your nuts and bolts + dreaming - based approach to van life. You are giving millions of people the resources to think about following a higher quality life- particularly older folks, though your work speaks most directly to the young. You cut through the BS in an honest way. It is VERY useful.

@reddragon7356 3 года назад

Excellent video, you are such a natural at giving presentations and I am sure you have it perfected it over time and practice. Love your channel.

@Adventureswithbecky 3 года назад

This is a great breakdown. Anyone can start small and move up after saving. Paying cash is the way to go. Lowers stress and makes it far easier to make what you need each month.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks, and yeah I def agree on paying cash 🙌🏼

@Un1234l 2 года назад

@@ChristianSchaffer I dunno, I recommend building credit by treating your credit card as a debit card.

@benjaminreyes3624 2 года назад

@@Un1234l why not do both?

@Un1234l 2 года назад

@@benjaminreyes3624 You could, but when starting out with zero to little credit history, you should buy everything with credit and show you're reliable with paying the balance in full. When you've done that for years and built a great credit score, you have the best of both worlds.

@fazered8202 2 года назад

There were comments of someone talking down on people being homeless!! I'm so mad that people like that exist and look down on homeless American citizens that are struggling to survive ughh ... I envy her

@brianhope4236 2 года назад

You are an extremely strong character! You are doing what many couldn’t do by themselves, just from a mental health standpoint! God bless ya!

@alexanderweaver4838 3 года назад

I'm glad to have found your channel. In two months I am leaving my bricks and mortar home in Virginia to live in a 2019 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van. It's been a dream to live a nomadic life since retiring from the Air Force 34 years ago. I hope to enjoy my pension and social security by saving and not buying "things" that don't matter. I am in the process of donating, giving away and selling things and furniture I don't care about. I wish I had made this decision much earlier in my retirement. I might be sitting in my small remote mountain cabin I've always wanted. Your breakdown helps me tremendously and makes me realize that living on a set budget makes great sense. Unforeseen expenses do happen and I want to be financially prepared for them. Thank you, Christian, and Happy Fourth of July to you!

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

So happy to hear that - enjoy this next chapter! Happy fourth to you too ☺️

@direwolf6234 2 года назад

it's not nomadic ... it's hydroponic ...

@justwannasay5454 2 года назад

I have a 2017 GMC Savana cargo van and I love it. I drove to Long Beach a couple years ago and had a 24" fiberglass hightop installed. One of the best things I have done.

@sarabethdukes7299 2 года назад

I love this! I'm looking at hitting the road when I retire as well. I was wondering how many retirees do vanlife.

@journeytrials 2 года назад

Look into moving to places like east Asia cheap! And also adventures!

@floridagirl3761 3 года назад

Amazing woman you are and very inspiring. Congratulations on being able to live a life that gives you all you want and more. Love your channel!

@geoffreylitz1477 3 года назад

Very interesting. Thanks so much for putting all this together and sharing it.

@daveb7577 Год назад

Great info! I've been watching your videos for the past week (how did I not find you till now?), and what's most impressive is how you convey the fact that your lifestyle is a conscious choice, not a necessity. So many people -- bless their hearts -- "end up" living in vehicles -- and in videos about living in vehicles -- due to some combo of bad luck, bad decisions, lack of preparation, and so on. Your videos suggest a smart, well-thought-out approach to a lifestyle choice that's both dignified and rewarding, and that makes you a living to boot. Good on you, and I hope you get rich off your channel!

@johnmaidment2817 2 года назад

Great video. Just started subscription recently. Your vehicle insurance is what I was paying for my 2006 Nissan Sentra until I changed to 21st Century in May and now pay $115. Your photography rocks. Wishing you continued success, fun, challenges and happiness.

@kerrymetcalf9676 3 года назад

Excellent video Christian. Good information on general personal finance for peeps no matter where you live. Love your fiscal responsibility.

@marccookson5409 3 года назад

Very detailed breakdown and great advice on getting started and staying on the road. Thanks

@godevarcooper9366 10 месяцев назад

Finance is a difficult subject for many people/ persons and i love how you did your comparisons. I am so grateful for this information.🎉🎉🎉 thank you

@khas684 2 года назад

The best breakdown of van living expenses I've seen. Comparing the apartment expenses was really helpful.

@CailSoria 3 года назад

Thank you! I am saving up now for van life and these video are really helpful!

@michelejohnson5497 3 года назад

Great, informative video, Christian! You addressed my questions pertaining to van life expenses. Thank you! I love your content, van build, relaxed demeanor, discipline and visually appealing B-roll. 💝 If you ever need another side hustle, you could definitely use your voice to read audiobooks or teach.😊🙌🏽 Take good care.

@bruceclyne5254 2 года назад

Greetings from Alabama. It’s refreshing to see an adventurer who actually has a plan and runs the numbers to make sure they are on course. May your life be an endless adventure!

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

Thanks for the good vibes! I’m a numbers nerd, ha 🤓

@woowayinvs1736 2 года назад

Thank you so much - you have given me the courage to try this van life for myself- which I have been contemplating for some time. as a solo female in my late thirties, your courage has been an inspirational voice to find my own voice.

@rekoppelb 3 года назад

Thank you Christian for the great video. This is helpful for those who can't quite pull the trigger on a lifestyle change like this. Love all your beautiful visual videos of our wonderful country.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks so much Rick 😊 Happy to hear it was helpful

@duster5569 3 года назад

I am seriously considering living out of my car...it will be an adventure! I want to save money to get from under debt and buy a house. I have three kids, that I get several times a month, which will make it interesting but I am going to use hotels with them. They are actually excited about the whole idea....thanks for the great video and insight!!

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

So happy you found it helpful - always an adventure, for sure 😊🙌🏼

@dorran962 2 года назад

I'm considering and almost about to make the move as well brotha! 2 kids that just moved out of state and I'm like scew paying $2k- to $2.5k on bills and rent per month. In one year I could save $50k and buy a house close to them as well as take Vacations and be free! All praises and good luck on your adventure my friend!🙌🏾💪🏾

@gabrielfranco9786 2 года назад

There’s family of 6 doing the same thing, they’re living out of their Jeep or vehicle full time and have been doing it for several years. The kids are all big now.

@pookiesukie5452 Год назад

@@ChristianSchaffer Is this only ideal for people who work from home?

@kellybair1827 2 года назад

You are INSPIRING! Beautiful inside and out! I happened upon your videos this morning and have been watching all morning! Thanks for sharing your story! Peace!

@GoldArrowFitness 2 года назад

Amazing attention to detail. I’ve never watched a great van life finance video until now. Great work!

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

Thanks for the good vibes ☺️🙏🏻

@charlesharris2749 3 года назад

Everything you do is done SO professionally. I mean, imagine how many Expenses videos have been done by vanlifers. This one is the best I've seen. Of course, being brilliant, caring, and beautiful probably helps... stop cheating!

@kylepshivers 3 года назад

Super helpful video! Really appreciate you comparing both van and SUV expenses. 👍🏻

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Glad it was helpful! 😊

@michaelkaufman9625 Год назад

So I just viewed her video a year out and this lady is very impressive; she touched on all the major financial issues with the personal constraints as well. A thoughtful and well-organized video and I would love to see her photography.

@AvRaTchET 2 года назад

Great video! Really enjoyed the directness, the raw information, and overall presentation and tone.

@ErikSjaastad 3 года назад

Thank you! Hitting the road in 2 weeks. I've never been scared in my life, must be on the right track. Love all of your updates. Stay safe and healthy!

@thatswhatithought6519 2 года назад

How is it brotha?

@ErikSjaastad 2 года назад

@@thatswhatithought6519 It's been great! Been all over the west coast and down to South Baja. Heading to the midwest in a little bit :)

@2202Winterful Год назад

@@ErikSjaastad Update? How’s it going now? It’s been a year. Let us know 😊.

@ErikSjaastad Год назад

@@2202Winterful It's been a great year!! Did a loop around the continental US, down to Baja for a few months and I've found some of my favorite BLM spots. Now I just wish gas prices would drop in California so I can drive around that state again. Thanks for checking up!!!!

@SteveKiziak 3 года назад

Really engaging and informative video! I'm picking up my sprinter 170 in a few weeks, build will be gradual but hopefully mostly done before winter months. Seeing real people living this lifestyle is Super inspiring! All the best on your journey!

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

That's awesome, autumn is a great time to hit the road 😊🙌🏼

@EfficientRVer 2 года назад

This is a tremendously good and useful video. Thank You! I can't believe I didn't find your channel until now, but that's water under the bridge. I was pleasantly surprised to see that you're not just another pretty face peddling "day in the life" drivel, but that you really have your act together and are willing to share the scoop on how that works. I'm subscribing, despite more of the mobile RU-vidrs I follow being newly-minted nomads creating homes on wheels, rather than thriving professionals in new vans. Retirees, people escaping the rat race, etc. I bought my first SLR for $35 used sometime around Woodstock and Apollo 11, at age 12. Now I more often carry a little Lumix superzoom (25-600mm equivalent, f/2.8 the whole way) or mirrorless (usually with adapted Nikkor glass) rather than DSLR and 200mm f/2 etc. You forgot to include hair care expenses, so I'll assume they didn't change much from apartment to van? ;-) Many "digital nomads" don't maintain their appearance once on the road, which doesn't bother me, but of course they don't have direct in-person with clients or the public. Some don't realize that they're punching a one-way ticket out of many employment/social opportunities, while for others, that is part of their grand plan. Looking forward to seeing if my highly positive impression of you is correct, beyond the obvious competence and looks. I like how you dispensed the advice about becoming debt-free, for instance. Many people who value being debt-free would have given a judgmental lecture and lost the target audience via narcissism/superiority, rather than searching for a way to reach out with gentle advice and maybe actually influence their decisions by being a role model. Well done!

@jorgevelasquez9955 2 года назад

Wow ! What an inspiration! Thanks for so openly sharing your lifestyle.

@JosephPuplava 3 года назад

Christian, this is informative to know the expenses and costs. I understand that everyone is different, depending on their lifestyle. However, it gives us a rough idea of expenses and savings. I truly appreciate your honesty and be able to share this with us. Thank you.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks for watching! Good to know it was helpful 😊🙏🏻

@valnpaulvanorden 2 года назад

Thnx 4 u r experience shared

@valnpaulvanorden 2 года назад

..and...food and other expenses went up over the last two years

@lawrencefox563 2 года назад

Po boxes don't move with you how would you get mail if in Denver if pobox in LA? You may have answered ?

@fazered8202 2 года назад

There was a comment looking down on people that are homeless!! I was so frustrated that these people look down on homeless people that are hard working American citizens... It's ashame that people judge homeless people

@mtnbiker15d2 3 года назад

Excellent and very informative video!! Thank you for taking the time to lay expenses out based on your lifestyle...also yes Xterras were solid!! To bad Nissan disc. Making them. Thank you again!!👍

@Chaelaz 2 года назад

Hell, full-timers (mostly retirees) have known this forever, and it is great to see younger folks realizing the benefits of such a lifestyle. But now the govt is losing income from land locking folks, reduce tax income from utilities and such, so they cracked down on vanlife or tiny homes, or highly regulate it. Anyway...you are amazing and was great o look back on some of your content - from a lifestyle and photo/video perspective. You are one of my fave inspirations.

@Raverzdreams Год назад

It's illegal to live in a van in most of California 🤷

@camd4648 Год назад

@@Raverzdreams I mean, I wouldn't want to live in California legally, or if they paid me. So that's fine by me!

@gsp49 Год назад

@@Raverzdreams I hate California, the land of kooks and crazy people.

@rashb3994 Год назад

@@Raverzdreams I think that rule is gone now because some of the encampments are loaded with beat up broken down RVs that don't get removed. One guy said he even rents his 400 a month in a street full of them. They also have some designated safe parking lots for people who still work and have no other choice than to live in their car. I think you have register or sign up to stay but that's fine for people not doing anything illegal drug wise.

@user-hl2fc4sg6j 9 месяцев назад

😂

@russianaloha4576 2 года назад

This is a great video! Thank you for laying it all out 🙏

@jimszczodrowski3695 3 года назад

Thanks for putting all that info together Christian, i like the idea of income just showing up in my bank account unexpectedly :)

@leeeverett8109 3 года назад

16:00 My mind was blown away at this part! And The part about buying stuff; just to have stuff!! Definitely, hits home with me.

@jackpepper2501 Год назад

In addition: Opening your bedroom in a beautiful van to so many Amazing Beautiful Places of the great outdoors. Thanks for sharing Christian.

@mychaelmcneeley997 Год назад

Just found your excellent channel recently. Really beautiful, high quality, thought-promoting, honest videos. I wonder if you've ever tried to compare your carbon footprint living in your van vs. in an apartment or house. My mom moved from a house in an RV and she figured her footprint went down, even considering the first one she had was a large one that had pretty low MPG. Hopefully this hasn't been asked and answered already. Thanks for putting together such marvelous material!

@stmcm 3 года назад

In regards to passive income, here`s an idea that came to my mind while I was watching your video. Since you have traveled so much and basically know many beautiful places inside out, you may create a couple of skillshare courses. For example: A course like "How to have the experience of a lifetime, traveling through US National Parks in a van!". That might be very interesting for people who just want to rent a van for a couple of weeks and have an adventure. You have the video footage to provide for a inspirational course and you articulate very well. Plus you may even be able to partner up with those parks or travel related companys if the course gets a lot of views. Its a great addition to RU-vid. Anyways.. just a thought. Great video, as always. :)

@buffalo068 3 года назад

I agree ..with your photography/videography skills and you do articulate very well , you could create all kinds of videos for trips from a few days to a month ..People would love that !! and there are probably many ways to sell them ! including on amazon !!

@MrsMuffin11 3 года назад

more people need to like this comment so she can see it!!

@AkshayKumar-ue1fp 2 года назад

Shh..Don't tell her..I will be doing the same thing

@MrLivewire1970 2 года назад

I bought a small one bedroom fixer upper house in the midwest for $19 thousand in 2010. Since then I've saved almost $200 grand and I'm looking at retiring next year at 52. I'm also single with no kids so that helps too. Keep it small and simple.

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

$19K!! That's incredible. Sounds like you've got a nice setup 🙌🏼

@PEDALSnPROJECTS Год назад

WOW. I bought a $112,000 home and Equity is great! I say I'm retired at 52 but kinda not I rent out an in law suite and I am very frugal because I have only the rental income which barely gets me by. But I'm gaining similar to you 🙂

@4kasiavlogs 3 месяца назад

Prices are sky high now for a house. How much for that place in 2024?

@MrLivewire1970 3 месяца назад

@@4kasiavlogs I'm in the Midwest so prices are typically lower here. I'm thinking $60k at the most. The lady next to me is renting her house for $650 a month. It's a bit smaller then my place, seems like a good price.

@webboxmedia 2 года назад

Very helpful video. Actually great perspective on how to look at expendetures and living cost priorities regardless of van life or not.

@susanwoodward7485 2 года назад

Excellent comprehensive overview of expenses. Very much appreciated.

@enjoyjavy 2 года назад

Thank you for sharing your story! Nothing like living debt-free 🙌

@LilyWasHereMB 2 года назад

wait, let's think ... that is the key to it all whether stationary or nomadic. Nomadic does however, make the deprogramming from impulse consumerism to necessity buying easier.

@evilspeed3101 2 года назад

Sweet. To be honest, I watched whole video instead of skipping to the final part only because u have done such a good job about voice recording. In this video your voice sounds lovely! And thank you for information

@Luigi13 3 года назад

It is actually a good review of illustrating the practicality of your lifestyle and the expenses that go with it. Then again each person can have a different expense and needs that go up or down. One question that comes to mind is while living this lifestyle is rewarding in many ways to keep safe w/out any serious injuries requires some careful consideration when doing certain activities, An example could be while alone and a foot get twisted stepping in a small hole or falling from a ridge because of loose rocks can cause a serious issue while in remote areas. Yes we can rely on electronics but still can create a problem depending on its proximity. Cheers.

@bellanova435 3 года назад

I love this video! I really appreciate you opening up like this about expenses while being on the road!!!

@bc-kelley 3 года назад

Christian, As someone who is currently looking at the numbers and saving. Thank You

@chasevanmattson1219 3 года назад

I second this. Thank you so much!

@ahikernamedgq 2 года назад

So helpful and inspiring! Thank you so much for sharing! I really love how focused and intentional you are! Best of luck in saving up that $ for the land you want to buy. This is the first video of yours I have seen (thx RU-vid algorithm!). I can't wait to watch more! Thanks again!

@traceywilskis6347 Год назад

As someone who is starting out their freelance journey, this was helpful. Thank you!

@huckleberry8864 2 года назад

Love this breakdown. I'm in the process of selling/donating all of my apartment furniture and unecessary stuff/clutter to pursue this goal.

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

That’s awesome - it’s hard work but feels like such an accomplishment once you start letting things go

@MichaelGordonFinance 3 года назад

I am really impressed by how great you are at saving money. That is a really amazing trait. Wonderful videos!

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Thanks for watching 😊🙌🏼

@BlaZindeezy 2 года назад

Wow, this was amazing. Thank you for all the great tips knowledge and advice.

@henkduit4225 2 года назад

Thank you for this overview! :-)

@JenniferLangille 3 года назад

You are an exceptional role model 🙏🏻 I wish you taught a business course!

@NathanielWise 3 года назад

such good information, and so organized too 🤓

@sergioalcantar3290 2 года назад

Excellent advice whether you're living in a van/SUV or not. Thanks for this, a lot of people will be able to get out of the rat race if they heed your recommendations.

@kivashtull1266 2 года назад

Thank you for this great video. Extremely well-done!

@brushemteeth9159 3 года назад

Amazing how openly you speak about such a private topic! Most people are overzealously confidential when it comes to their finances.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Ya I was on the fence about it, but in the end - my goal is to be helpful. So as long as that's the case, I'd say it's worth it 🤓

@votesudanusa 3 года назад

DUH. Who would NOT be CONFIDENTIAL about PERSONAL FINANCES?

@brushemteeth9159 3 года назад

@@votesudanusa You might want to question certain societal habits a little more. Not much speaks for it.

@votesudanusa 3 года назад

@@brushemteeth9159 The only people I know who speak about personal finances are poor

@tjshultz89 3 года назад

@@votesudanusa More money more problems. It can depend on the career path as to how much someone is willing to share. Are they doctors and professionals who are salaried and only have 1 income, or are they entrepreneurs with multiple streams of income? Someone with multiple incomes might not want to share how much they make out of risk of being audited. They might say publicly they make X, but if one of their incomes goes down and now they're declaring a lower income to what they said in passing in a video, then they have to have a meeting with the IRS to explain the discrepancy. Its pretty easy to find a ballpark figure on how much a doctor with 20 years of experience is making. But finding out how much a youtuber with 100k subscribers with a lot of side deals is making is anyone's guess. If a youtuber says they made X from a brand endorsement, then other brands will try and peg them at that price, even if the youtuber's value goes up with their subscriber count. Poor and middle class tend to have 1 income stream and not much in the way of investments or side hustles so it's a much easier topic to discuss. I can file my taxes for dirt cheap and it'll take 5 minutes. Wealthier people with diversified incomes have to hire an accountant and spend hours going over every little detail and spend hundreds to do their taxes. Athletes and entertainers have to pay taxes in every state and country they performed in which can cost thousands. The more you make the more hassles you have to deal with.

@Lisa-kz7vw 3 года назад

Great information I was very curious about expenses doing vanlife versus renting a place. I was really surprised that the gas wasn't more expensive the food expenses didn't surprise me food is expensive especially quality organic foods.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Yeah I imagine for some overlanders who stay in one place for weeks at a time, gas might be even cheaper. It's kind of amazing how much time and money we as a society spend commuting every day

@gatesbisson1746 Год назад

Inteligent, informative and well presented, well done Christian

@Joe-co4sq 2 года назад

Great video! You have the same philosophy in regards to finances as me and it helped me retire at 48 years old. You'll do just fine.

@brawnyknowles42 2 года назад

You may be living a minimalistic life style but your hair is immaculate lol.

@ChristianSchaffer 2 года назад

why thank you 💁🏼‍♀️

@jenniferasalcedo 2 года назад

fr what shampoo do you use girl! Pls share

@agapyearish9982 3 года назад

This was great. Thanks

@beyondblessed4709 2 года назад

I'm a newbie, also a truck driver of 24yrs. Considering doing this, but without feeling like I'm at work. Thank you for the knowledge....blessings.

@GeoffreyMays 2 года назад

Very nicely done! Best of fortune to you! I look forward to seeing your photos

@douglashelland5055 3 года назад

Great information. There were a few things I didn't think about. It is interesting to hear how it is different for every person living in a Van. I have been trying to put together my own list of what it could cost me each month.

@ChristianSchaffer 3 года назад

Yeah, it really does vary! It can be as low key or glam as you like 🤓 Glad you found it helpful

@koolkeith8908 3 года назад

For some us that own our homes as the values increase, living on the road at the same time can be even cheaper from offset home ownership prices.

@christopherlee7451 3 месяца назад

Great breakdown and very smart tips you provided. Thanks for sharing.

@ponsiswett6161 3 месяца назад

I’m a hoarder! Vanlife sounds like my natural therapy. Love! Love! Love! Your personality and content plus quality. TY🙏🏽 for caring & sharing.

@weedhopp 3 года назад

Thank you for sharing 😊

@jamesstephens6941 3 года назад

Great work. Always nice to see how its done without being prescriptive. Also surprisingly detailed, so reward for keeping good records. Passive income is a relative term. Most still require some attention to details. Having property can be an anchor. This can be good if you want a fortress of solitude. It can be bad if there are unwanted problems with it. Thanks.

@direwolf6234 2 года назад

yes .. especially when you need a new roof ...