Van Life 101: How to Find Other People When Living in a Van 

"I hope that doesn't sound egotistical." Sir, I've watched enough of your videos that I think it's safe to say you have more humility than most humans possess in a lifetime.

Bob I'm 73 years old and I've always been a nomadic person. I'd work a while and roam for a while when money got low and I wanted to keep roaming I'd sell the car then HOBO for a while and enjoy the beauty of our COUNTRY, stopping of for a couple of days for crop harvest or day labor and I was very happy with life. Then I got married and life became a living HELL. any way when I no longer had the NIGHTMARE of a wife I became a drifter once again. I lived in my astro van on the river bank for 6 summers in a row and worked then rented an apartment in the winter. I had some MEDICAL issues and had to live in an apartment for three years and my savings were soon gone. I just got a clean bill of health from my VA doctor to go back to traveling again as I told her of my life style. Anyway I just got my first smartphone 6 months ago and learning how to use it has been a challenge for me. I accidentally came across you on RU-vid and it blew me away. You sir are the GODFATHER of nomads, as James Brown is to soul music. You are a blessing to me Sir and I'm moving back into my Astro Van July 1ST as I'm putting money back to replace all 5 sensors new in it. iv been spending money on getting I mechanically sound. I'm moving out of housing July 1ST live on the river untill Aug 1ST then I'm going to SD and get the mailing address set up like you suggested. Thanks for your knowledge. My niece is going to show me how to log into your website in July. I will be at the 2019 RTR. Hopefully with the money to buy a hightop like you suggested. I'LL rough it out in the old Astro untill I can afford a good old hightop in good shape and low mileage. Again if you get this COMMENT I want to thank you for removing all my fears of bondockin. Like I said SIR your a blessing to us.

I just have to tell of this experience. My son, step son and I did an impromptu camping trip for an overnite at Mammoth cave KY and just packed the bare essentials. we had pretty much what we needed but being just a quickie over niter we didn't really stock pile the food (we had enough though) and the camper neighbors either saw we were roughing it or just had fixed way too much breakfast stuff, but they sent over the biggest bunch of grub with OJ and milk at that. The father and son (I assume) came over asked if we could use some extra fixings and so we said sure and thanked them very kindly. This was many years ago and have never forgotten that kindness. So I always look around to see if there is a little something that I can help with be it firewood/charcoal , water, fishing doodads or maybe what they may be lacking. The generosity and kindness is out there, so just smile and say hi and you probably will meet some the nicest people .

"fear keeps you in your house and in a miserable situation." that comment sir was the most concise phrase that sums up my current situation. I am currently looking for a vehicle as we speak. I am miserable living in a city and with a person, I can't stand. Thank you for making these videos.

I am social worker/ therapist listening to this in 2021 and couldn't agree with you more! How nice of you to address this-

Hi Bob my name is David and I came across your videos some time ago. I walked from the US Capitol to a bit past Denver Colorado carrying a 75 lb backpack. I did so for PTSD awareness. I'm a Navy veteran at 59 years old. I had four heart attacks on the journey so your videos were very much welcomed. I am getting a bus, 5 window fixing it up to live in. Thank you for all the info and I will see you on the road!

Here is a suggestion. A camping group I meetup with sometimes uses the yellow happy face so we can find people in the group we do not know yet. We put it on our rig or by the road next to our camp. I have a yellow plastic plate I drew my happy face on. If someone else just happens to have a happy face they just get to meet new friends too. Some time the happy face is just made on a white paper plate.

Reminds of 30's depression era language of hoboes sharing wisdom of the road by leaving a 'sign' on a fence or tree, code for " Nice Lady Will Offer Apple Pie Here" or " Bad Dog, Do Not Approach", " Can Sleep In Barn " ....

Will you be there later this year 2022 Bob ? I'm in Arizona now. Husband passed away recently. You're a breath of fresh air. Leading many to the promised land. Thank You 💖

Bob I have been binge watching your videos and you have captured the culture I remember as a kid in the early 1960s. My Dad converted a VW van in 1963 to a camper we took on weekend trips and vacations. Back then we ran into people who converted all kinds of vehicles (buses, box trucks, mail trucks, etc.) or were really innovative tent campers. Campers/RVers are the best. They loved showing each other the innovations, work arounds and inventions they came up with to make life on the road more comfortable. They reveled in helping one another and found joy not in how much money they had to spend, but how little they spent and how far they could make it go. There was a great sense of kinship. Great people!

Thanks so much Bob.. For 35 years i have been with my late hubby . care taking him from dementia, so i didn't get out much. My life was just work and back. He passed 2 years ago. Now i want to go on the road.. Nothing holding me back .. I will purchase a van soon. And preparing to go!!. You have eased the fear that i had to go out and Travel.you have insipred me. I will be taking a big step . just to drive far places. But i have to do it to beat that fear.God Bless You😊. I will start off going to RTR. Hope to see all the tribe. In cluding meeting you!😊and regular youtubers!! Yay!! im excited.thank you for the map to quartsite..A leap of Faith..Thx Bob.😊

Something we used to do at rallys was have a welcome sign, a ribbon on a door handle, a rope tied on a bumper or anything simple that a stranger could recognize as an ok to approach. Mine would be out all day until supper when it was our time the i would just remove it. Fairly simple and makes it easier for a strager to say hello.

You are such an amazing asset to the community, Bob! Thank you for all you do!!!

This is one of my favorite videos that you've done. I think so many of us have some level of that primal social anxiety of sorts. One of the first things I thought of after deciding to go to the 2019 RTR was "OMG! How am I going to do the initial awkward meet people thing?!!!?" But after watching this video I feel a lot better about it. Thank you for everything you do. :)

Bob you have the biggest heart ❤️ on RU-vid!!! God Bless you and Thank You for all you do! ~Lisa

Boy Bob, you hit the fear-nail right on the head! Maybe we can take a lesson from AA and introduce ourselves with: "Hi. I'm a friend of Bob." Or put a similar sign on our rig or at our camp?

I went to Quartzite last year with the intention of going to the RTR. When I saw how many people were already in town, I was immediately intimidated and turned around and hung out in Ehrenberg for a week. Maybe I'll give another try this year and won't chicken out.

Bob, you touch many lives. I'm not an RVer but let me join the chorus who thanks you. Your videos are inspirational and uplifting. This is your best IMO.

I lived in Baghdad, az. For five or six years, on solar panels, batteries and a generator. And on the Navajo reservation for five or six years before that. I found homes for 235 dog's, 125 cats, and 1 rooster.

Ahhhhhhh.....the age old dilemma....how to make friends. Humblness is #1. Learn to listen more, talk less. Offer to help others, be generous & kind. Do not expect everyone to like you & learn bodylanguage. If you feel awkward around a group after an hour or so its probably because thats not who you gel with. Move on to the next group until you feel comfortable. Its ok, theres plenty of vandwellers out there! Good luck!!!

You are a good man Bob. On the path of a true human being.

Great info Bob! This is so wonderful. I guess if I had a like minded tribe around me, I wouldn't be sitting here watching this video from the comforts of my home. LOL!

Thank you Bob, I've been seriously thinking about hitting the road. Yes it scares me, as I would probably be alone. Watching your videos, has been so helpful. I love seeing all the different types of people boondocking, and enjoying the great outdoors! I'm now saving money to purchase a van. I'm getting so much valuable information about setting it up, and what my needs will be. Maybe I'll get to meet you and some of the wonderful people, you have been interviewing.❤️ Take care and God bless you all.🙏🏼

Thank you so much for this great video. Everything you said hit home for me. I am a shy person and love to be by myself, but there are times I need to be around people. I would love to go to the RTR. Maybe you will see me there. Thanks again!

You are just the best type of a human being, Bob!

Bob how amazing that you share that info with everyone & are willing to help everyone. It is truly your calling helping others. I hope some day to be able to meet the tribe.

Can always count on you to help folks feel comfortable and welcome.

Bob, we're a young couple (in our 30s) and want to join.. so thanks for keeping us posted. You bring up some good points. We believe its healthy to meet new people, especially of different ages, backgrounds, and experience levels. One rule we follow that helps break through the fear of meeting strangers that always work for us is "do unto others as you would want them to do unto you"

When I was in my younger years my friends told me that " only a loser would go to a theater or go eat in a restaurant alone". Despite of what they said I took my gut to do whatever they think is odd, so I one day I went to a restaurant to eat by myself, the next day I went to the theater just to see how it was like. I felt normal even some people were looking at me, but I didn't care " what's wrong if I go by myself " ? It's just how you think and how you deal with the things you want to do despite of what other people say or look at you. A strong mind person doesn't always need another person in his/her life to be able to have a "normal" life as the majority of other people. That's how it makes you unique and it helps you to be strong in the most difficult situation. I am a kind of person that if you tell me something that I should not do then I would love to do the opposite. Sometimes I know it would hurt me but I will do it anyway just to show someone that I don't like to be in controlled by someone.

If you're boondocking in camper as a lifestyle, you're probably not all that interested in being around people. However, we're people, so when we realize that we need SOME human interaction, it induces a little panic when you think about going out and meeting strangers. Good questions.

Bob, thanks. Your social network is a blessing. As an introvert/loner I was still wondering this very question. You are awesome dude! I won't choose to be living out of my car or van, but if I do, it is not the end of the world. In fact, I am learning joy can be found inside of a car. Wow!

You are awesome Bob. Thanks for taking the time to make such a helpful video. -Mark

I remember the video you did on the Ehrenburg location. You are so precise in your directions I could find it in the dark during a sand storm. Really good info on the area, time of year and the RTR. Thank you Bob.

You always speak from the heart, Bob. That is something I really appreciate and value in a person. Thanks for your gentle and compassionate spirit...

I love your thoughts. Thank you Bob!

Its my dream way of living. so happy I found your informative channel in March. I love to see all the adventure and so much good info.

Will I'm not afraid, to met people myself, and if your travel alone, remember your not alone there's a whole world of people that have the some life styles, and it's the most awesomest way to life. true freedom!!

just an FYI, I was headed down to Tucson, AZ and it is WAY TO HOT!!! it's in the high 80's and my body isn't adjusting and my van is scalding hot, sweating at night. I'm gonna go back up to prescott, a little higher altitude and cooler at night.

Once again Bob, your video is full of GREAT information and welcoming SPIRIT. I am SO Blessed with the HOPE you emit from every pore.

I just found your channel and just love it!!! Four years ago I was plucked out of the work force by a drunk driver. A year later I found myself living out of my truck. I did that for about two years. I look forward to getting back into the swing of boondocking and love your suggestion about practicing boondocking for short spurts in order to work the kinks out. Since I can't work anymore the nomadic lifestyle seems like it would be the best fit for me. Thanks for what you do...great channel 💖

Bob I am retired Army, planning to get out full time RVing in the near future, enjoy your videos, big fan

Come to Alabama in the November time. One can grow your own food and I have 40 acres, a well and electricity.... The winter is great here, the summer is hell...

Your hair and beard look Glorious. Also LOVE your heart to help people- there's no substitute. Can't fake it. People can feel and sense when someone cares.

Thank you so much, Bob, for all the suggestions and useful information - it's much appreciated :D

Much appreciation and respect to you Bob. As someone who is new to this and seriously starting to consider this lifestyle...your videos have offered me a ton of valuable information. You are a true inspiration and a valuable resource for this community. Thank you for all your efforts, and keep up the great work

Outstanding video Bob. This lifestyle is fascinating to me. You give so freely of your life experiences and thoughts and philosophy that is the truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. I like that. Your YT videos, that you work so hard to make, is a very honorable and noble service that has enriched so many lives. Thank you so much. I hope to meet you one day.

Thank you Bob for all your videos. Your heart is bigger than the land you camp on!

Thank you Bob..I see this growing way larger than you could ever have dreamed..

Thank you for your awesome videos! I appreciate the effort you put into these. It has opened my mind to many things. Keep it up!

Last year I chickened out heading west beyond my "comfort zone" of Texas. As I know no one it was a daunting feeling. My sister is in Oregon and I will be heading that way this April / May. Watching these videos has given me some viral courage and I now look forward to this new adventure (still somewhat skittish it gives me a new perspective).

Thanks so much Bob. I'm really hoping to make it to the RTR this year! I may not be living full time in my car by then, but I can hardly wait!

Bob. ... I liked you from the first video I saw that you did. ...and right on to today. ..You have been a great inspiration for me. ... I am in the process of building a van right now.

Thank you Bob! This was so well said. Thank you for your honesty and truth about you life experiences. It really does all boil down to fear and from fear stems all the other issues and problems we create in our minds. Sometimes just hearing that someone else has experienced similar stuff makes us feel less alone & that right there is a beautiful thing. So thanks for your wisdom.

Thanks ever so much for posting this video, Bob. I look forward to meeting up with you, and the tribe.

Bob, you are a gifted inspirational teacher! Thank you for sharing, educating, and motivating us dreamers!

thank you for posting these...they are really inspiring and clear and informative ...bless you brother!!

Thanks Bob for your genuine kindness and sharing your vast knowledge about our natural world. Just subscribed to your channel and just can't get enough of it! We have a few more years to go until retirement and hope to meet you someday soon!

Thank you Bob for these videos. You are helping greatly in getting prepared mentally for the RTR. As an introvert that has a hard time stepping out of what's comfortable for me your words are comforting and helpful. I have work commitments where I'm currently at till Christmas. Then I'm on the road full time, for the first time in January. Safe travels tribe! Hope to meet some of you in January at the RTR!

thank you Bob for taking the time to explain all of this

Thanks Bob, for this video. We are excited about the RTR, and had the very fears you discussed. We feel this event will change our lives forever. We no longer want to be prisoners of the "established' norm. And our family thinks we're nuts.

A very thoughful, thank you! You spoke of yourself how I feel about myself in the terms of fear of being rejected. Being a gal looking to get into this lifestyle you give me inspiration! Thank you!

Bob, you are so real. I love your empathetic heart and logical mind. I don't even know you, but you are my tribe.

Love you Bob and so love your videos!! You really cover everything and it shows how much you care. I wish you all the best and I sure hope one day I get to meet you and others in the tribe. God bless!!

My wife a few months ago started watching your videos and we had just our truck at the time and I was working fast food like 60 hours a week so we started saving my money and bought a slide in truck camper so we can try the work camper thing a friend decided to join us and we're headed to the eye this year to go to the big tent and attend your seminars before we start this big adventure. You've been very enlightening thank you

Thanks thanks THANKS for allllll those infos Bob, you have no idea how precious they are for me !

Thank you for another great video, Bob. What you do for the tribe is incredible!

You talked me into joining your forum... 😜

Bob, you nailed it....thanks expounding on this topic. Wish I could meet you and the tribe this year. Love, Jo.

Thanks, Bob, for such a great, informative video. I am already planning my trip to join the tribe (I love that word) next year. I have been tracking the weather so I know where I can go where it is not too hot or too cold, but I will also be flexible on the road. For me, it is fun planning out the basics ahead and takes out some stress. This will be my first extended trip on my own, so I look forward to meeting some people. The info you provided is so helpful.

I've been watching your videos for 6months and now planning a trip to Quartzite this coming January. This video was so incouraging! I can do this!!! Thanks!

Thank you, Bob, for holding the space for all of this. I recognize that you are a rambling introvert, and that you have to step beyond your natural inclinations to do what you do, and that is a valuable thing.

Yay! I'm so glad. I was waiting for this video!

My Dad used to live in Congress, Arizona with his arctic wolf. Summers were hot. Thank you Bob for information about so much.

Thank you sir for another extremely informative video. I really do appreciate the time, commitment, and knowledge you contribute to this community/culture/life.

Thank you so much. You are such a kind man. Please don't stop inspiring people...

Great and timeless video, couldnt be more on point! Just retired and will begin my journey this Fall, cant wait to meet you Bob! 👍🏼👍🏼

Dear Bob, thanks for this video. I am so looking forward to meeting you and attending my first RTR. Just got home from the Van Build Party and it was a wonderful experience!

Thank you, bob. You give great info and you are so, so kind. And Kindness matters!

Great commentary. Spread the knowledge. Thanks Bob!

Very good video Bob, very informative and very useful, thanks,

Exactly!! Thank you covering this subject Bob.

THank you Bob! As Always a great video with a lot of information and visuals.

You are an inspiration Bob! Thank You for all you do! I hope to meet you one day. Stay healthy!

I'm a huge fan! You have so much wisdom and experience. Thank you for sharing! I am currently in the military but will be separating in the next year. I am planning on going off grid and living the van life. I am looking forward to meeting the tribe!

Bob your content is the best! Thank you so much for all that you do and give.

Thank you! For years I've watched van dwellers on RU-vid never thinking I'd ever be one of them. Then boom!- My life turns upside down and suddenly I'm out here! Crazy! Thanks for the info!

You just make it so welcoming !! What a wonderful guy u r :)

Hi Bob, I don’t have my RV yet. But 2018 is my year to fine one. I’ve been saving. After my dad passes, it’s my plan to be a full timer. Your RU-vid S and Carolyn’s too. I’m 60 and this gives me hope. I gave everything up to be dads caregiver, and he has Parkinsons and Dementia. Dad is physically healthy at age 87. I look forward to joining the nomad movement. Peace and love! ✌🏽💓

Another great video Bob. I can talk to anyone so that’s not a problem for me, I need to get a vehicle and get out there, I can’t wait to meet you snd others. Safe travels Bob.

You sir are a kind human. Good luck to all. I wish I could join you..........

Hey Bob, great video. You answered some questions I hadn’t asked but was about to. 😂 thanks for reading my mind. This video is so important perhaps the most important of all the videos of your I have seen. I probably won’t be on the road “full time” until I turn 62 in 6 yrs, but I’m looking and planning ahead. This really helps! Thanks

Very much enjoying your video's. Thanks for sharing your experiences and thoughts. I love your openness and honesty.

Just started watching your channel tonight. Very informative!

Very well put. I'm pulling out next week, long as nothing pops up :) the tribe is right for me, I look forward to this challenge. Thanks for your beautiful ❤ awesome tribe leader you are.

Thanks Bob!!! Great video as always!! Looking forward to meeting everyone at the RTR!!

I'm sorry Bob, I'm here I have been walking around. The first place I walked by I waved I spoke out Hi!. This place has a sign. It says main camp. It has cones to block it off. 3 people sitting there NOT one waved or said hi back!. I'm a newbie here and I would have thought the MAIN Camp , would have been the place to go and meet greet and just find out where things are. You are a great person for all you do and have done for everyone. I thank you for all I have learned. I hope I get to meet you and learn more from the tribe.

Thank you for this and all the links! Great resources, you're amazing!!

I'm researching alot these days, for I hope to live off grid F/T in about a year. Thank you, for your channel. You are #1!! I will be watching all of your video's. Xo Susan. I am also an introvert.

Thank You, for answering those questions. I was wondering how to ask those questions without looking stupid.

I’m so so glad Bob to find this lifestyle I bought my first minivan nothing fancy but I’m hoping to come to the next RTR!!!!