Your channel isn’t a van life channel… it is a cooking show, a biking show, a hiking show, a peek collecting show an inflatable boat show, epic videos if nature show and a dog show. We love it for so many reasons 👍
Absolutely, I agree completely. Foresty and Rocko are like that brother and lil sister that you just love to hang out with but don't get to that often because of distance. But when you do hang out, you want to know everything they've been up to! Foresty is a man of many, many talents and that Rocko is absolutely adorable!
Well said! I wonder if Foresty realizes how crowded his van actually is when he sits down to eat, or how crowded those mountain peaks are when he takes us all along with him.I would add one more category, mental health, it is so refreshing to spend time watching this channel I can get so lost in Rocko and Foresty's adventures,I think I am smelling the pine and hearing the silence on the mount peaks.
Dont sell yourself short buddy, the channel is one of the most wholesome things on the internet and its a pleasure to be along for the journey. Thankyou for giving up your time to create this awesome content.
I retired 6 years ago and am living what I consider to be an almost perfect life. I live in an apartment with my two cats. I don't even put 5 miles a month on my car. My family can't understand how I can live alone and be happy. Email and texts give me all the human contact I need and RU-vid adventures such as your channel lets me see the world and never leave my home. You have to live your life your way. Thanks for letting us be a part of your life
You didn't just fall into success on RU-vid, people responded to your authenticity and talent as a videographer. There are very few creators that take such a genuine and honest approach and we love following along!
Of all the so-called van lifers, you stand out the most - its your authenticity and refreshing candour that makes your channel so compelling. Well, that and the stunning camera work!
And if I could add two more: 1. Your genuine humility - it is easily apparent in all you say and do 2. Your can-do fix-it attitude & ability: carpentry, mechanic, electrical etc. and of course everything else everyone has mentioned why your channel is so special 🙌
Hey Foresty, it's funny you mention a Foresty Forest cookbook, I ALREADY HAVE ONE! My girlfriend made a Foresty Forest cookbook as a gift for my birthday. She took screenshots of your videos and wrote down the recipes. We've since cooked a few of them. It was a nice gift!
Thank you for the mental health transparency. Rocko has added so much to your channel. Nothing brings me more joy than seeing her in your bike basket up on her front paws ❤
Your comments regarding van life are spot on. A lot of people don't realize you take hours of video that include the struggles of doing what you do and can't include it all. Van life seems easy as a result, when it is easy at TIMES. I bought a van for weekend trips and gained a lot of respect for the planning/work that goes into moving around. I guess that is why your channel is a pleasure to watch. I get a fun guy and his dog and beautiful scenery with no work required. Thanks Foresty!!
It’s crazy that you’re literally kilometers from my home man. You’re always going to the next level with how honest and vulnerable you are with us. I appreciate you a lot and thank you for everything!
Ya know, I think true van lifing is what you were meant to do. A genuine calling. A boy, his dog, their van and mountains to climb. Love your videos. Very, very real.
I've been watching RU-vid pretty consistently since 2006 and I can say that this is the only channel I have not missed an episode on. While other channels fabricate stories, exaggerate, click bate or just in general try to impress. You just live your life and challenge yourself. There is a simplicity, honesty and wholesomeness to this channel that I don't get tired of. Doesn't matter if you're cooking, cleaning or climbing, in here for it! I'm sure many would agree, I feel spoiled with the extra content coming out lately. I hope that means you're feeling a bit better
Wise words and beautiful views! We wish you every good thing. I wish I could still fire off patreon to you every month. You give us far better content than any high paid actor or reality show contestant. So grateful for you sharing your life with us. Do what is best for you! And Rocko.
@@barbraallbritton4222 He shut it down a couple of months ago I think, stating that he dind't feel good about keeping it up when he didn't put much effort into it. I assume he 'doesn't need it anymore. He had a ton of patreon subscribers for years. I anticipate that he is doing very well financially and doesn't need that influx of money anymore.
I definitively live vicariously thru your channel . I love the low hype , honesty and integrity you put out there. Foregoing the van life would have you being the same person anyway. Embracing it , well , makes us all better. Happy trails !
Hi I wanted to thank you for your content. I have followed you for over a year now. I really appreciate that you’ve stayed humbled and true to your cause. Other van lifer’s on RU-vid tend to flaunt their success as their channel grows and monetizes. To me that’s a sign of arrogance and I stop watching them altogether. You on the other hand have stayed true to the life style and who you are, that’s so refreshing. Thank you for that!! Regards, Carlos
Not sure about everyone else that watches your channel but I definitely live through your journeys. I'm physically unable to hike, climb or canoe. The scenery is like almost being there. So sunshine, bugs, or worries of bear attacks. The authentic content is genuine and honest. Thanks for sharing. Best of health to you.❤
“Never fitting in” turns out is exactly right for finding and holding your own path in living a life!! Thinking of all we would not experience with your choice of life style, if you followed something differently than your own heart. Living vicariously brings such immense joy watching you and Rocko at the top of all these peaks! Thanks so much for all you two do!!
If this was me making this video with the exact same intentions as Forest, my day would look like tossing my bike in the woods and never ever finding it again, second the hike up the mountain...911 would be on stand by, and third the Canadian Coastguard search and rescue would also be in the video, that would be the cool part...Yup 😊 two weird Canadians🏒 with two very different outcomes 🤣🤣🤣
Ya google is greedy with the super thanks too. I recently received the largest and one of the only super thanks ever for $80 but google takes 30% of that... basically theft. I think 5% would be fair not 30%.
I kinda miss Patreon..I chose to support you Foresty because I believe that you have so much to offer....honesty, genuine advice and lol...cooking. I'm an old gran from Australia and wish the world had more Forestys.
I have subscribed to several nomad channels through the years (I live in a 4x4 pop-up truck camper) and the only ones I still watch are those I consider realists. By that I mean folks who are documenting and sharing their real self and their real life, as opposed to those who comjur up content they think will sell. You are obviously a realist Forest...good on ya.
I used to think I knew what true loneliness was, then I got married and discovered depths of loneliness I could never have conceived of. Dogs are humanity's best invention to deal with the pain of existence.
You are my inspiration and hero Simon! This is my retirement dream and what I am working towards. To be outdoors full time with my cats, kayaks and fishing, camp gear. Thank you for continuing to share what’s possible and keeping us in the loop despite the screen burnout issue. I appreciate how difficult that must be on the brain. Lov 🐶 Rocko and your adventures and insights. Thank you both for everything you do. Peace. Stay safe.
Retirement is one answer to living full time in a van. *IF* you stay healthy enough. I'm actually at retirement age, and while I have some issues, none of it would stop me moving into a van.
Agreed that health is a big IF. Currently I am able to travel in a truck between two provinces visiting with my sons. Enjoy it immensely! But that said, I am retiring from working long term health care. (Also will say that I seldom get sick when mostly outdoors.) I can honestly say that for me personally I will be in my truck…again that’s just me. 😻😻🛶🎣🏕️
I'm retired at 49. Bought a small 24ft RV Class C. I don't full time yet but I'm in it 5 to 7 months a year. Love the feeling on the road. As far as being sick. I had Pneumonia two years ago boondocking outside of Grand Teton. There's no place I'd rather be laid up.
@tarstarkusz when I was ill I put up my hammock and spent the days reading. I also keep a hotel fund in the RV. Just in case I have enough stashed for a month in an AB&B and a plane ticket if needed. Rainy day fund. Aloha
I know people who'd lose if they didn't cling to their entourage. I spent 9 summers on fire towers, and as long as I could go to the woods and spot critters, I was fine. They were all my babies, and I encountered hundreds, peacefully, and they were all the connection I needed to feel at home. Two hours after I was alone my very first day the Queen of the forest - a drop dead gorgeous sable Siamese grizzly with her typical triplets - ambled through my yard. I only saw her again my last year on that tower. She knew. She was the Queen. I know in my heart that her presence that first day was a sign I had been expected.
I just turned 30 years old and I am living vicariously through you. I am always stuck indoors studying for medical school or in the hospital. Feeling like I've got no time for myself at all. It's sad cuz the outdoors make me happy. But I'm glad you make these videos so I can at least watch someone else enjoy the great outdoors. Long time watcher from California
Once your career starts you'll be burned out in no time and want those old studying times back. I know I'm there. Quitting after only 4 years in the field.
It’s funny I’m so old and have so much in common with someone who lives so differently! Old age pensions gave my wife and I the freedom to live on a boat and travel full time at last but instead we ended up in a van. Like you I have no desire to be away from the van and I enjoy not knowing where we’ll be tomorrow. We do winters in Mexico and Central America because the States are too cold for us but the wandering is a wonderful feeling. If I’m doing it at 65 rest assured you have a lifetime ahead of you if you still want it! Cheers. See you on the road.
My wife and I recently started downgrading on all the useless materials that we've collected over the years. Reduction is definitely the way to go for those who have too much and have no idea what to do with it all. Foresty, you are truly living the minimalist and eco conscious route. Keep it up and be safe!
I've been watching your videos for a couple of years now and it's been very enjoyable. You are truly living the good life bro. Living life on your own terms and your own schedule. Love the cooking, hiking, van life, drone footage, and of course Rocko adventures. I'm glad that I can contribute a little to your lifestyle and thanks for all of the great stories and videos that you put together on a daily basis as it requires a lot of dedication and effort to do.
I don't think you're going to be alone your whole life. You're a pretty special human Simon with a pretty special life (and pup). I'm sending a little prayer that the right person crosses your path. The mom in me can't help it.
I wish the same for Simon, too. Seeing Brian found his special lady in Kelly gave me hope that Simon and Amanda will meet their match to adventure together.
The other day I was parked by the ocean. Let Tak out to go to the bathroom. And a coyote grabbed him to minute he left my eye sight. I seen it and screamed Taks name. The coyote dropped him some how. Then he came back. But it must have carried him 30feet first. When he came back he was crawling. Couldn't stand up. I managed to get him in the truck. He was sore for a cupple days. But there was a point were I couldn't see him. I think he fot like a badger. Saved himself. Lucky
Thank you for sharing your perspectives on Van Life. Your wants and needs are obviously different than the vast majority. And you were spot on when you said that you give us the opportunity to live vicariously through your van life adventures. I hope you and Rocko continue to enjoy the van life adventures. Your drone videos at the mountain summits are always spectacular. Be safe and take care of your health. Enjoying life no matter how one lives it is what it's all about.
Foresty, I totally understand how being alone for so long can take its toll on one's mental health. I'm glad Rocco helps fill that void for you. I had a beautiful cat for 17 years, he made living alone alot better. Recently, he passed, and am having such a hard time learning to live without him & truly being alone.
My beloved Jelly cat is 15 1/2 years old now, and I dread his passing with every fiber of my being. Ugh. (he was born on the day my son died, so there is this link). He is like a dog, understands commands, and we communicate so well. He has been my solace and my strength. But when he goes, no more cats for me, I'm too old. Sorry you lost your best friend.
@peggydwyer8187 I will keep you in my warmest of prayers. Yeah, it seriously stinks. You're never too old for a purring fluffball of love! With Tigger, I was never alone. (That's him in my avatar photo). He was way more than a cat. He was my family. And I'm really sorry to hear about your son.
More people need to see one man’s perspective on living and owning THINGS. It’s obvious it’s not for everyone but it’s also a lesson in what is required and what is wanted! You don’t have to climb a mountain to satisfied with having a simpler life? Without a doubt you are a breath of fresh air your honesty and real life!
Oh your more than a typical van life individual, your an adventurer, mountaineer, and explorer. your not hanginging out with other van life people that would be boaring, Your van is where you eat, sleep and use it to get to anonther epic destination, That is what I love about your channel nothing wrong with not having a seriouse relationshipe , I dont , I enjoy my alone time and can come and go as I please. You have wee Rocko as companie on these adventures mentioned that is enough. Oh Yes, I also look forward to watching what you will cook , that way I can try it. Keep doing what your doing. Ontario
I long for the days when all my worldly possessions fit in my car. You’re living the life we wish we could but can’t . Thank you for taking us along for the ride. Love you and Rocco.❤
I've been keen to do the van-life myself but I know that after a few months of not actually working I'll start to really struggle. My current job skills don't really adapt well to a wandering lifestyle. Ah well, that's why I religiously watch your channel. I'm living the van-life through you, so to speak. Haha.
Hay Forest...your not alone in how you feel.....I would love to live a nomadic life ...as long as I could have my dog and a partner . Doing it alone is ruff. When the world starts to lose all its sanity...you'll be jumping for joy. Lol I'm not happy living in the city ...but it is what it is for now. Canada is God's country you are all so blessed to be there. We'll stay safe put Rocko climbing in more of ur videos. Can't get enough of her she's so cute. Bye!🙋♀️
We love the honesty foresty. Its good that you are talking about the deep feelings you experience. Solitude is a beautiful thing that is very peaceful,but i can see how wanting to share experiences with a partner,but at the same time one can be afraid to commit to that because one wants to run back to solitude. I totally understand it.
Hi Forest, I wish I had the energy you have to be able to climb the mountains that you have the nerve to do. I consider myself to be fit but not to endure 8-12 hours of walking/climbing. You're truly inspiring. I wouldn't call yourself weird or a recluse, just your particular way of life. Some people just lock themselves in a room with 4 walls and deal with being a recluse. This is definitely a better way of approach life. You're living my and everyone else that watches your channel, dream.
Appreciate the straight forward thoughts on the lifestyle. I do live vicariously through your videos. Have responsibilities and family that have me in a more traditional world. I think my life and habits could be more minimalistic and I'd be happy. That's why I enjoy your content, seeing that contentment with you and Rocko.
I agree with the idea of higher quality of life when you own your personal space (living in an owned van is better than living in a rented apartment). I have been in my suv 90% of the time since the beginning of 2023. I was doing it part time for a couple of years since October 2021. I am glad that I can now do it full time
Thank you FF and Rocko. I have been full time in a truck and 19’ ( 4 in a 16’ ) trailers,, 10th year. I do not feel good indoors in a house or motel. I love watching your videos and totally get when u say if people were with us full time,, they might fine it less dreamy 😅. I travel with a cat. Big hugs from Quebec Canada. I am always glad when you two make it back to your Van safe and sound ❤❤
this is like the apex of all my dreams over the past decade to get to this point. This line help me understand why I'm fond of your channel. Your eating a pancake inside of a white van, and you look richer than any banker i've meet or seen
‘Not all who wander are lost’ or strange! ♥️. Life is about the journey not the destination and the adventure of the journey has a the best part. Enjoy knowing your soul FF! (Still have the Fraggle Rock theme song in my head from the last episode 😂.
_I wandered lonely as a cloud._ _That floats on high o'er vales and hills,_ _When all at once I saw a crowd,_ _A host, of golden daffodils;_ _Beside the lake, beneath the trees,_ _Fluttering and dancing in the breeze._ -- William Wordsworth
I just read through the ocean of comments. Looks like you aren't alone after all. Hope all these beautiful comments are like hugs for you. Thank you for guiding us into places we will never go ourselves. So much more than a "Van life" channel.
Been watching for years. Definitely admire everything you do on this channel, and living vicariously though for sure! I could never go on those wild treks.... but it sure it wonderful to see the views and experiences you bring! Thanks again!
"living on the back road" is what ive called it for over 43 years. most humans cant deal with the alone time. i myself enjoy some me time. thank you for sharing, safe travels.
Forestry you are unique..there is nothing wrong with your lifestyle ( in my eyes). Having total freedom of ones' life is a privilege. Keep safe my friend, stay healthy. I look forward to seeing more videos. Rocco keep rockin on.
I've lived in my suburban in the desert for two years miles from the nearest neighbor. I never need company and I never feel lonely. I enjoy my solitude.
I appreciate seeing the rugged West through the eyes of Foresty Forest , his van and his dog Rocko. You make outdoor videos like nobody else. You also make mountaineering almost accessible to a novice like me. I eagerly await another adventure in the Purcells.
I am 72 years old and have been following your channel for over two years now. Thank you for taking me places I will never see. The world since 2020 has gotten so crazy, you are much better being alone in the great outdoors with your wonderful dog Rocco. Be safe out there and may God bless you on your journey.
Another great video. I love how you always show different parts of your day in such a well organized way. The best videos on RU-vid and all in 12 minutes. Nice!
I love your videos. You’re one of the people that inspired me along with Elsa & Barron. I’ve been a jeep dweller since April 2022(I have a storage unit). I was 50% prepared, the other 50% was actually experiencing everything. People are shocked I’m still doing this. I’m still a fierce freespirit at 64. Thanks Simon for a cool video. Sending you & Rocko lots of hugs and love ❤️❤️
Yes ! I do want to live like a weirdo recluse out in the forest ; just like I did when I was younger . It's a pleasure to watch your channel Foresty . We really enjoy your adventures with your sweet girl Rocko ....by the way I had a rat named Rocko ! I'm amazed at how well she has taken to the life you have given her and I believe she loves it so much . Stay safe out there *** Those salmon cakes look delicious !
I feel you. I'm a digital nomad who runs a business online. The pandemic was the best thing for me. I continue to travel the world and mind my business and cherish my peace and freedom. ❤❤❤
Wise words. Not everyone is built for a fluid, solitary existence. That you figured yourself out bike touring is perfect. I've done a bit of touring and always yearn for that peaceful state of mind that only comes from a few weeks of minimal, self guided lifestyle. Eternal thanks to you and Rocko for keeping that feeling at the front of my mind!
I have been renting rooms from a rental website and what's cool is I do get solitary time as much as I want, so far. There's people in the kitchen but many times there's a microwave in the room. It's not super cheap but it's fun.
3:35 gotta love rocko's enthusiasm, despite you going back and forth to set up and take down the camera. In that short take she's already enjoying the ride!
Foresty, you are very unique and authentic. That is what makes your channel so successful. It also doesn't hurt that you have the most adorable little sidekick! ❤🐕
I’m going on 3 years full time in a van, I hate the living in front of the camera life so I work most of the year at a adventure based school. Rock climb everyday and travel all summer. I love every second!!
I watch for the cooking, the parking lot sewing and construction, the vicarious adventuring and beautiful videography and for Rocko and all her adorable antics. And because you keep it real and aren’t a phony Influencer type.
It's strange that you say you had trouble fitting in when you've built this big community behind you here on RU-vid! You seem authentic and I'm sure many people are and would be happy to bring you in their circles. Another fun adventure and thanks for taking us along😁
he probably fit in more than he knew, but after watching him for awhile I'll bet he was just shy and thought he didn't fit in... if he started talking with people like he does with us, I think he would have been surprised at the good impressions he would be making with strangers... kinda like us
Some people just don't feel comfortable in circles, or in circles for long. They are shy, introverted(which is actually different), or both. Or just have a certain level of social anxiety that arises from time to time or perches on their shoulders constantly. Some people just do better alone, or at least alone a lot.
@@dingfeldersmurfalot4560 I understand that. People are social animals though and will from time to time need that human contact whether it's social media, chatting on the phone to family, or even going to the store for supplies. I was reflecting on the amazing community that Simon has created for being someone who says they didn't fit in. He does indeed fit in😁
I'd consider it the utmost privilege to call him my friend. I'm guessing that social media is riddled with egomaniacs, but our intrepid friend is a rare and beautiful thing, as are his followers 😊❤
I remember when I first started watching you. Living uncomfortable out of your van working in the city, saving money, I love coming along for the ride. Maybe hire out your editing work? Have a great day.
The lifestyle sounds great to me. I've always the urge to roam and explore but could never afford it. I plan to save enough to get me by the first year then work on finding a spot I want to be a bit and get a part time job to get more money up to move on. It's scary but I plan to have several backup plans. I think I'll buy some cheap az land as a home base in case I need it or just want to homestead a while. Anyway, I got my Foresty Forest Tshirt today!! I love it! Happy trails, Simon!
You have no idea how many people I talked to about those first videos that got me hooked. About your commute and your inconsiderate room mates which made van life the obvious alternative. Still living variously thru your videos after all these years but now with more kids. lol.
I have been watching your videos since you were building out your minivan. I tried to watch other vanlife videos, but most of them seems so glamourized or just plain fake. Your videos have truth, authentic and serenity to them, also love them mountains. Keep them coming! We'll watch them all!
Everything you said hit home for me big time. I'm trying to live my nomadic lifestyle with 2 dogs a bike and SUV and canoe, and the only problem for me is mobile income. I keep having to go back to my parent's house and get a job, which really messes up my other prospects. I feel like the only possibility to break that cycle is RU-vid, unless I can find a VERY dog friendly job. I don't care what I sleep in as long as it's warm and dry, but where the heck are the dogs gonna hang out all day? That's what drives me crazy.
I'm at the perfect spot in life after 29.5 years of Marriage and kids. The Former wife screwed up so badly the female judge found everything in my favor. The judge ruled she has no right to any of my income for life including my Pension... But health issues reared their ugly head.. To avoid capitol gains I had to buy a house and am getting itchy feet. I go Backpacking and Camping any time I want and missing my old Volkswagon Westfaila which was perfect in the way it was set up inside except for it's weak motor. I've looked at hundreds of Van build outs and am not happy with what I see and at the price they are asking for prefabricated insides and no bathrooms or showers.. Thanks for sharing.
You are the most well fed van dweller. Your cooking skills are impressive. Your variety of ingredients and flavors you cook for yourself is enviable. The kitchen is a room in which I should avoid but in reality I have to enter. I describe my cooking skills as decent enough to sustain life…
