People QUITTING VAN LIFE Because It’s Too Hard | Off Grid REALITY CHECK 

Just found your channel love your content cheers from NewZealand ….subscribed 😊

I just finished 4 months in my 30+ year old 18 foot Class C RV. Dumped tanks, filled fresh water, went down roads I never should have been on. Sometimes scary, exhilarating, lonely, fun, epic! Oh, I’m a single female 65 with a dog. Chrome, I enjoy your channel, learn from it, and ya- life’s dirty. Wouldn’t have it any other way. Next rig will either be a high top van or pop-up camper. It’s all about the journey and learning about yourself no matter your age.

Have been a subscriber for couple years, first time commenting. I’m an 85 year old woman, and doing van life first time. It’s a necessity for me but I’m ok with it. Wish I had started when I was younger, but such is life. Thanks for your vids, I’ve learned so much. 🌴Tampa Florida 🌴

Can I make a suggestion for your mud problem? My parents used to do this when we went caravaning when I was a child. Get a stiff bristle door mat. Make a small hole, and tie a decent bit of rope to it, then anchor the rope to some place just inside your door. Getting out....open the door, throw out the mat. Getting in....wipe your feet on the stiff bristles to remove the mud and dirt from your shoes. Hop into the van. Haul up your mat with the anchor rope and before bringing it in, smack it hard a few times off the edge of the floor to knock out the mud. Make a skinny place just somewhere close to the door to slid the mat when you are in the van. I love your channel by the way!

Been doing van life for 2 years with my dog in Florida. I have saved so much. I am 57 and this is the happiest time of my life. Freedom, Don't have to worry about paying a ton of bills, travel when I want. You make life what you want it to be. So if you are not happy don't do it. Life is hard no matter where you live. Van life isn't for everyone. Try it and if it doesn't work out at least you tried it. Life is short enjoy it.

It’s all about living outside your van and not inside the van 👍😁👍

People who fail at something always have someone else to blame. They can never accept the fact that it wasn't something they wanted to work at to make it a success.

As someone who spent 2 years outside it worries me to see so many making van life videos showing the world where they are camped out. Rule # 1 never let anyone know where you are camping.

After being a trucker and not wanting to give up a nomadic lifestyle, I knew a van wasn't right for me. I wanted all the normal creature comforts of a home, but with a smaller footprint. I was THIS close to buying a van, but I got realistic with what would make me happy. So, I got a skoolie instead. A bus has been perfect for I want to be able to do. Adding luxury to your space is key, no matter where you live. True Chrome, van/vehicle/nomad life isn't for everyone. It's really about knowing yourself and being willing to learn more. 💜

I've been doing vanlife for 1½ years after having walked across the country for two years. To me, vanlife is a luxury. 🙂

I started van life by force but made it my own. I work full time and have no “build” I made it “my life” what people forget is that van life is not a cookie cutter one size fit all. It’s what you make it. It has its ups and downs like any life. The goal is to make whatever you like fit for you! I don’t have a 10k build, I don’t have a fancy set up with solar, complete kitchen and bath. What I do have is what works for me!

It’s about freedom - I lived in cities most of my life - at 42 I decided to move to rural Alabama & I payed cash for a farmhouse and land - now I’m 51 I absolutely love it - zero debt - I keep healthy - bills aren’t even $300 a month - been free in any form is a great feeling sadly most people are caught in the debt trap -

This is why you don't jump in whole hog your first time out! Heck I decided to build a temporary setup in my SUV and test it out with short trips over the next year before I even buy a van, bus, or box truck to build out. It's called try before you buy, and it's an important part of any major purchase/life change.

Right on Chrome! I've been doing van life over two years now. I have this conversation with people all the time. Most have this idea it's a glamorous life. I'm here to tell you it's not glamorous - not even close. What it is though is one of the biggest adventures of your life. And, as far as I know - provides the opportunity for the most freedom possible to the average person in our society.

I love this lifestyle! Going on my fifth month full time. I love the challenge, I love finding that spot, a free shower, etc. I love playing a game of “Where the heck am I ?” every morning. It’s fun! Some people can’t hack that, dirt, cold, hot at all, and that’s ok. It’s the freedom that makes it so worthwhile, and I can’t put a price on that. Bryan from Vancouver

Also, using a poop bucket is very economical, quick, and easy to maintain; using plastic shopping bags is great! Just make sure you don't have any holes in them, I typically double bag for safety.

It also depends on your van lifestyle. For instance. I will be doing van life, while working hospital contracts. So I will be parked mostly in a hospital parking lot, while working 12-16 hour days, 3-6 days a week. Depending on my stamina at the time. Super minimalist and love small spaces and little stuff. Super clean so I will def have a system set up. I will be able to either shower at work, van or gym. I will not be doing off grid but will be doing parks and beaches on my days off. Scenic and alone? Not for me but yet I don't want to be around a lot of people..I do that at work already. You just have to find what works for you. I love all these channels, as they show me my possibilities and what I don't really want and what I want is to live super simple and minimal. Thanks for all you do. Your vids rock!!!✌️✌️🥰🥰

That's exactly why I watch your content, Chrome, it's a REALISTIC look at being a nomad... THANK YOU!!!

You're not only real about your content, but you're faithful too! This is why I keep coming back. ✌🙋‍♀🥰 Thank You!

Getting a real bath, going to the bathroom, finding a place to park every single night, being alone constantly would not be easy but better than homeless at least for some, who don’t have a choice.

I envy you. Not van-life so much as your stoicism and your ability to squeeze every last drop of living out of life. In the UK we have a saying: "Happiness is not having what you want but wanting what you have." You are the best evidence of that I think I've ever seen; hats off to you, Sir!

Go to a pilot supply store and grab a "remove before flight" tag. Clip it to the Star Link when you stow it. When you put Star Link up, clip the "remove before flight" tag to your steering wheel. I do it with my shore power charging plug.

Chrome think about throwing a rug/mat that is made to clean your shoes. Then shake it out and lay it in front of the door. Just a thought. Could help a little for less dirt traffic.

Are you kidding me! I can't wait to go back to van life! My house is never clean, my yard is never finished, I always have dirty clothes blah, blah, blah. When I lived in my camper van , life was SO simple! I loved the fact that everything I had was with me and within reach. Mostly staying in my hometown, parking on the streets and when I did want to take off and go somewhere All I had to do was get gas and turn the key! So very simple and easy! And that's what I tell everybody, van life or living on wheels of any kind, is not for everyone! I can't wait 💜

For me, it's all I'll have. I'm homeless because housing is insanely high and getting a trailer (I can't convert a van into a home, I wouldn't know what I'm doing) is all I can go for for housing. I don't doubt how hard it'll be, but I'm not giving up.

Nothing worthwhile is ever easy or neat. The freedom of the nomad life is totally worthwhile. Love the video and the gorgeous view! 15 yrs. Fulltime RVer.

I used to use a peanut butter jar to house all my poopy sanitary wipes...It just made sense because it was a closed system and I like being clean...well , I lost that jar one day and occasionally I enjoy reminding myself of the poor person that found that jar and thought they had scored a new jar of peanut butter...I imagine the look on their face...

I just spent 5 days at Pictured Rock National Lake Shore on Lake Superior last week. I was just across the lake from you guys. I just retired and this trip was my first adventure. You and Emi have inspired me on my journey. Thanks for being real.

A lot of folks seem to be fatigued of " Van Life " . My idea is to enjoy getaways and then return home rejuvenated and inspired. Sometimes, I just want to check out and enjoy solitude and peace and practice self sufficiency. Love avoiding expensive hotel costs on the road. Love the freedom and exploratiin by choice , not by need. It must be hard full timing. Seems very romantic on its face.

Weidos Unite!!!! I have had a van or RV all my life. It has been my second home and some times my only home. I am 72 years old/female grandmother even great grandmother, teacher and director of school and children's programmers. I am a prepper and survivalist and enjoy teaching people how to be a minimalist and self reliant. I watch you as often as possible and have learned so much from you. I am presently attempting to build my first permanent home in a Ford E350 to live here in the Rocky Mts. once I stop working. I have to work to pay for my conversion. The people that judge you and other u tubers fail to learn. It's because they don't know their self worth. They don't venture into unknow territories. Life sometimes forces us to deal with the unknown or unprepared. I had 4 different fires near me. a flood come through the land i was living on with 2 wolf hybrids (we all survived). You are a perfect example of what I teach people. Have adventures (not DRAMAS), enjoy a simpler life, and figure it out along the way. Your life style is what I am striving for. I look forward to hitting the open road on a full time basic, but right now I am boondocking a couple days a week. I am enjoying the conversion process. I just got an offer from a friend to help me gut and insulate, and maybe panel my van in 2 weeks. YAH!!!!! progress. IT'S THE JOURNEY NOT THE DESTINATION! Dee

I think some people are so afraid of being uncomfortable, that they're simply not living anymore.

I'm always surprised by how little people think about their "needs" before hopping into any sort of full time van life. Whenever people ask me what they can do to get into full time van life, I always say the same 2 things: 1: Figure out what your "needs" are and make sure they can be met. The basic needs like food, water, clothing, bathroom, and sleep and then your "personal needs" like entertainment, exercise, and other "miscellaneous" stuff. 2: PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE. Especially while you still have a home base. My other big tip that I tell people: don't change who you are (or keep it to a bare minimum). If you have to drastically alter who you are to fit into vanlife, its gonna be a bad time. I'll post myself as an example. When I first started full time, I was spending alot of time out in national forests. And while it was enjoyable at first, I came to despise the loneliness, disconnect, and quiet of the middle of nowhere. I always thought that as a former submariner, I'd have no problem with that. But what I didn't take into account was that there were 150+ people on a submarine with me. And so over the past 2 years, spending time in BLM and nature has progressively decreased to the point where I really only use BLM as a way to pit stop between 2 towns/cities. And that's just who I am. I much prefer being in urban areas.

Thanks for your down-to-earth honesty and candor. I don't RV full-time, but previously did lots of RVing around the U.S. sometimes weeks at a time, in a Class C. I did consider doing it full-time, but when I retired I found this little nest in the forest outside of Olympia and decided this is where I want to be. Been here 5 1/2 years now. No regrets. Be well.

I will say you've shown it all for years. I've literally been watching your channel since you brought your few things downstairs from your apartment. It may not be for everyone, but don't lump everyone in together. Stay safe and TFS.

I love your channel for many reasons, Chrome! Not only do you share the ups and downs of van life, but you often show how we should enjoy even the simplest things in life. Thank you for being an inspiration!

I 100% agree. It's not glamourous, but you're free. In fact, the glamourous stuff is a hassle. I had a fully equipped Class B, but the dumping and winterizing were such a hassle I just put plastic bags in the toilet and did it the basic way. So much easier! There were frustrations, but the rewards were greater. I can't wait to get back out on the road after serious health problems sidelined me. Next time I plan on being out forever, hassles and all. Thanks for another great video!

I think one of the worst things in being homeless is the social part! I felt like I wasn't able to be anywhere! The constant emotional stress of no one wanting you around! Where to sleep or hang out! ...my heart goes out to everyone! From my experience most people, DON'T choose that existence! Although some do! Anyway! How we treat people is paramount! Hang in there! And your attitude is priceless in adaption of surviving!... great video Brother! 😎

It's not a proper ASMR without our beloved Cruz snort! Water washing over the rocks, and a Cruz snort! Heaven!

You and emi fit well together she's the calm in your storm

the fact he said “they make the smallest things seem so epic” is a prime example of how insanely short peoples attention spans are today. i am sure he is miserable most of the time. finding joy in small things is the most beautiful part of life. as you said, chrome, “get stoked for life!”

I tried to do van life in a truck. Major mistake. Definitely need a van for me to have peace of mind. No if, ands, or buts about it. I learned the hard way. To all you car and truck dwellers, my hat is off to you. I cannot do it and will not do it until I get a van. Period. Thanks for listening.

It’s all about the little things in life no matter if you live in a van or sticks and bricks. I have always lived like that. You have never hidden the fact that vanlife is NOT all unicorns and glitter or man dust, you have always shown every thing good and bad.

My husband wouldn’t let me stop at the big blue chair but, I saw it and thought it was HUGE! 🤩 safe travels Chrome ✌🏻❤️🇨🇦

What I admire about your content is how much patience you have going thru your van at its regular height. Some with higher roofs still find it difficult. Thank you for reality checks!

Chrome, you are the reason I am in a van. Three years now. I’ve hated it and I’ve loved it. Can’t ever see myself going back into sticks and bricks. I’m still struggling with trying to get electrical to run my fridge and a heater (when I finally get a heater) and my kitchen is only half done but it’s the adventure that keeps me going. Thanks for always being there for me. You keep me inspired.

Not that I watch a lot of vanlife channels, but you're the only one that shows the process of making the bed. LoL.

Great video, excellent points. Gotta admit, though, aside from that gorgeous sunset (which is as real as it gets!), my favorite part was Emi’s gut-busting laugh at the campfire lighter fail! 😂❤

Thanks for keeping it real. I enjoy watching your videos. Worked all my life as a nurse, and quit when i became ill. You give me enthusiasm, and hope that its never to late to plan and enjoy lifes travel. Love your happy demeanour

For the 7 plus years I was a long haul trucker, I used the paint bucket,lined with 3 plastic medium bags and I'd always put a couple tablespoons of Camping toilet chemicals in ,then close the lid. When I used it,usually urine,I tried not to do bowel movements if possible.

Love your honest approach to van life!! Suggestion- why not wear a slip on shoe? Make your van a no shoe space! I do when Im in my van and it makes a difference! Your dog is another story…

I'm not in a van but I'm in a self-contained caravan on tow, and I've done a year but I was just looking at the dirt you were treading in each time you got in the van and I was thinking as naff as it sounds if you got a small front door mat you know the bristle type and put it outside your van and wiped your feet on the mat before you got in that would solve your issues of hoovering up every 30 minutes and all you would have to do is shake the mat and stow it before you ventured out again. I have a Jack Russell terrier and live right on the beach at the moment with the same problem except it's sand but a little Mat outside the van might solve your issues. Have a fantastic weekend

I had an RV one time I never got used to it I can’t be cramped up like that now I’m a lot older I’m so glad I have my regular home it suites me just fine But whatever you prefer is your own choice. ❤

Been watching off and on for a couple years now. Personally, I can't wait to sell my house ( paid off last year) and get into vanlife. Another year max. At 57, pride is something I shelved long ago. The struggles of vanlife pale in comparison to those of home ownership. Keep on keeping it real Sir. Your channel is OG / GOAT material 👍👍

Tried of bucket bathroom and weekly showers. Not to mention safe relaxing place to sleep.

Most gorgeous campsite I have ever seen you film at Chrome. Love it for you and the cat lady. Thank you for sharing this with us. Blessings.

Hi, I'm 66, just comeback from Arizona after three weeks of a lot of work in my van and many adventures. I can't wait to live again 😁. I just love it!!

living in a small travel trailer, when i saw all the dirt i kept cleaning, i thought to myself, "yep, Chrome does keep it real. it really is like what he shows!" and it made sense why he gets so excited on having a place for everything to go. i get it. totally get it

This is one of my favorite videos you have ever made, started with a poop bucket an ended with a beautiful sunset, keep being weird brother, it's a true pleasure and inspiration to watch yall.

Breathtaking views & real talk. You always know how to make it enjoyable to watch, love how you always think of newcomers and still manage to make the content interesting for loyal viewers. Great video, great venting, this world needs more weirdos like us. Much love 🤗 🤗

Chrome, you and Cruz are the real deal! Love your cheerful outlook even through all the dirt and pooping - Keep on trucking with the van life. 😊

Yes, we must enjoy even the littlest things in our life! Thanks for inspiring!

Thank you for sharing your joy every vlog! (even through the daily van life cleaning)! You helped me escape my hermity life through Quarantine and now! Hugs to all!!🍁

Thanks Cruz for setting the situation straight! I LIVE and BREATHE full time in my NV200. I just added a coffee maker AND a toaster AND have a microwave too! Say this comment to everyone please. I'm actually enjoying the freedom!

Hey Chrome! I've always appreciated how you keep it real when most van life RU-vidrs just show the glamorous/pretty sides to it. You show us the grimy, dirty and gross parts about living in a van (ie., how often you vacuum, throwing out your garbage, emptying your pee bottles, pooping in a bucket, etc...) I think that's why I enjoy watching your channel the most! I'm pretty sure I know which RU-vidr you're referring to that quit van life. I've watched his video and I agree with you, I don't think he ever watched your channel. Thanks for keeping it real!

Recently got rated 100% through the VA. Now that I don’t work getting into this lifestyle has been a goal and now seems attainable.

Was worrying about the disposal of number 2. When Chrome mentioned plastic bags, it gave me an idea. Where I live there are bins for dog poop. Problem solved. 😂

I can't wait to get back into Van life Did I'm my 20s for two years, now I'm 65 and ready again.

You are ground zero for inspiration for me to become a van dweller post military retirement. I've been doing this for a few years now. I love it! Thank You!

Beautiful water's edge and little beach. Cruzie enjoyed the rocks in the water too. Yep, van life is not for everyone. I know I will never do it and have no desire, but...I enjoy watching others, do it! Lol Thanks from the bottom of my heart, for sharing your real life with us. It's entertaining, educational, and informative. Oh did I say it's entertaining!?! Stay safe. 🕊

I'm 8 months in with living the vanlife and I'm still okay with it. I need to finish the conversion but it works for now.

You are so prepared with all your equipment. Great to learn from you guys.

That's probably what draws me most to your channel, you really keep it real. And it is hard in Canada especially in the winter. Thank you for your honesty and clarity and not sugarcoating anything. Love you.💖

I was doing my "housekeeping " just now when I clicked on this video. 😆 That is the best thing about having a van...I can take care of my business whenever and wherever.

"You've got one life to live - be stoked about it"...wise words. I lost my wife a year ago and it made me realize just how short life is. I have a great job on a Gulf Island but I just gave my notice today. I'm going to spend the rest of my life doing only what I want to do.

It's not about the Van it's about the Life lol. That guy you watched sounds boring as hell. I'm stoked for life everyday, so grateful for everything and marveling at the world around me. I walk around this country like a kid in a candy store, big eyes and jaw to the ground. Every day is an occasion to dress up and make it an adventure! 💜

Hey Chrome, appreciate your videos, have been watching for a number of years. You are one of the you tubers who shows more than average, and it is appreciated. However, I do also get the other persons point. One of the things people need to think about when watching you or other youtubers, is that there is a significant difference in National parks and recreational, open space and parking between Canada and the USA. There are fewer and fewer places to overnight in a USA state or National park. Law enforcement and the overall community are becoming more and more aggressive with those that do stealth parking. I'm just sayin, that I love the places you overnight. Many are just beautiful, surrounded by Nature. With a US population of 332,403,650 vs Canada 38,929,902, space, overnight camping permits and free camping are at a premium.

The reason I had to quit was that I could not find a partner I was so crushingly lonely after 4 years on the road. and I couldn’t keep it running because of an electrical problem.

I'm living in a small skoolie, I'm very happy with it. Apparently I'm doing the hard thing by living in and working on building it at the same time. I should have listened to my friends years ago to live in a van. I can choose where to be and who's around. The adventures and freedom are great. It is not for everyone though, I don't know how so many people don't think of the pros and cons before investing. You may find after time it isn't for you and that's okay. But it totally is for me, SUP WEIRDOS!!!! Maybe I'll meet you someday Chrome 😜

I'm stoked about the big blue chair!! I'd drive from Texas to Canada just to sit in it! Lol!!

Shoes are off in our home and vehicles, with sandals, barefoot inside. I learned this living in Korea. Keep being you, that's what makes your channel great.🎉

The first time I watched your channel, you were hooting every time a vehicle drove through a deep puddle. I was mesmerised. Such a little thing to be enthusiastic about, but we all miss the little things, and life is made up of little things. Miss those, and you’ve missed everything. Faithful watcher here. I’m going to get a Transit Connect for weekend van explorations.

I'm guessing that you and your girl being so authentic is why I love watching your videos.

New sub here. Love your energy and positivity. Doing research on what type of van my husband and I want to build out, as well as how vanlifers live on the daily. Thanks for sharing and continue to enjoy the journey.

Hi Chrome! I’m not a Van dweller but I’m a Van camper. I just made a video recently on using your van space wisely, keeping it tidy and clutter free, clean and how it’s a daily task to keep your van clean and clutter free. I have a vacuum as well and use it daily. It’s important to me to have a clean space to camp in. I cracked up when you almost forgot your gadget on the roof! I forgot my outdoor magnetic thermometer 2x! I’m on my 3rd one! 😳😬🤦🏼‍♀️ One thing I swear by is having a small throw rug right inside the van door that I use to step in on. It’s an absorbent type rug and it has really helped with keeping the dirt, and muck out of the van. I step in on it and leave my shoes in it. Then I shake it out when needed. It’s very helpful, especially is wet places or rainy days. What a beautiful camping spot! I love Lake Superior! I travel the shores of the Great Lakes, rock hunt and Van camp along the way. I stealth camp in the cities I drive through and also stay at campgrounds. I’m completely self sufficient when I’m on the road. Power, fridge, kitchen, water, toilet, bed and all the gadgets that help make my van camping experience fabulous! And you’re right, not everyone can just get in their vehicle and take off on an adventure or live in their vehicle. It take a versions amount of “chill” and flexibility. I love small spaces! But even more o love clean and tidy small spaces. Anyhow, great video! Have a fabulous day! 😃🙌🏼💯

I love your energy and that you got stoked about the big blue chair on the hill, I totally feel that! Safe travels, keep being stoked about life bro! 😄

I think you CAN enjoy the little things more when you find your life belongs to you again while living in a van. More relaxed and happier. If you aren't adventurous, then please do get out of your van and leave more room for us😁

You show us the reality. Thank you Bro. You are True and REAL. THATS Y I WATCH YOU FROM MARYLAND. I LOVE YOU MAN. I WILL MEET YOU ONE DAY AND THE CAT LADY. I LOVE YOU GUYS.

Thanks for defending us van dwellers. Love your attitude. Not all of us find van life a hardship. Being free is worth it. Luv ya.

Love your enthusiasm for life! Like you said! We only get one life. Make the most of it. I've just downsized from a 35' Crown Bus to a Ford E250 van. It's taking some adjustments but so far I'm enjoying it. Your channel definitely helps. Cheers!

I've been watching you since day one, and it prepared me well, as did so many of the other real vanlife channels I've been watching for more than ten years. And you know what? Jan 3rd 2019 I hit the road, and have never regretted it, not once. And look at that, I'm still loving your channel, still living in my van, and loving every minute of all of it! I see those "I'm quitting vanlife because . . ." And I just have to laugh and feel so sorry for them. You and Cruz are awesome Bro, great job keepin it real! You rock!

You don’t see a lot of RU-vid content about living in sticks and bricks, but there’s a lot of drawbacks to them that no one mentions when you’re signing the lease.

I just saw a video like the ones you mentioned, and I was struck by how much research she did, a notebook filled with plans, yet she still knowingly hit the road before her van was ready and set up. Not sure how anyone can expect perfection regardless, but especially without setting yourself up for success. A notebook full of plans only gets you so far.

I like the idea of putting the 2 way radio on your seatbelt when traveling with others.

Thank you! Half way thru. Tell 'em 👍👍🙏🙏 It is one of the secrets of life to enjoy the small things in life. Keep on keepin on.💫💯💫

I pick up my van tomorrow!! Will mention you on my first video, as you are the number one reason I'm going van life. Thank you Crome.

Thanks for being so transparent! This channel is a lifesaver.

I think van life is hard for people that don't have a stable income coming in. It's hard when people jump into it without a plan. It's hard for people that don't know the proper equipment and supplies they are supposed to buy before starting vanlife. I've been watching vanlife RU-vid videos for 3yrs now. I also am in a couple of vanlife Facebook groups learning information. I have been taking notes. I will be prepared when I do decide to do vanlife.

I love your channel Chrome ❤️ you bring the real life to everyone who watches it. You don't have to be a van lifer to enjoy the great outdoors. I go all over the place in my minivan, and love the freedom of getting away from all the hassles of life at home. Thank you again for sharing your life. please be careful and enjoy life 🙏

WEIRDOS UNITE! 💜💜💜

I HAVE BEEN HERE 4 YEARS, WE HAD THE SAME REASONS FOR STARTING THIS , IM NOW ON MY 2ND BUILD . THANK YOU FOR ALL THE GREAT ADVICE 😊