Van Life 101: ESSENTIALS List for Living in a Van, Car or RV

In this video we go over what is essential for living in a vehicle like a car, SUV or van. By following this list, you will buy just what you need and nothing more. These are affiliate Links to Amazon. I'll make a little money on them, even if you buy something else.
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Buy anything through my Amazon Store and the commission helps support the channel.

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*AMAZON LINKS - Items I Recommend:*
~Power Stations
~12V Batteries
~Portable Solar Panels
~Hard Solar Panels
~Gas and Dual Fuel Generators
~Air Conditioner Units
~Pop Up Tents
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Thanks for watching!

[woofolliesmydog]

What I really love about your video's is that you never assume people can afford to buy something that is shown in the clip. I like that you are able to say "if you can't afford that, you You are a very kind man, thank you for making these videos, they are very informative, insightful and inspirational. Your preparation is appreciated, your guests are wonderful and give me hope that one day, I can enjoy this lifestyle too:-)

[timmyles]

Traveling in a Prius ! Wow ! I once lived for a year in the back of my Toyota truck which had a nice topper . I worked at a hospital so I had access to shower . I kept my uniforms in a locker . My street clothes were on a garment rack in the very back of my truck . I used an inflatable mattress and sleeping bag . My one luxury was a battery operated portable CD player .

[oldmedicinecrow]

My aunt is living in her Prius. She has been living in it for a couple if years and loves it. I was a truck driver so I knew just what she needed and sent her a few 12v things so sure could cook...

[legitKwit]

Someone mentioned in the comment section below that you are a "professor", Bob. You are showing people how to live cheaply and with dignity! Thank you, Bob.

[Nic]

If you want a small well-built mattress, look at crib mattresses in the maternity section. They're just the right width for a small vehicle, and they're very comfortable since they're built like a real mattress. Just add some of your other cushions and pillows to both ends for extra length. The best thing is -- you sleep like a baby!

[lynnsweet]

As far as refrigeration, I travel and sleep in my car for months. I put ice in the Gallon Size Ziploc Bags. And then I put it inside a silver Cold/Hot bags you get in the grocery stores, usually in the freezer section. I then place that inside a large thermal tote with a zipper. The ice lasts a very long time. I empty out the water every couple of days which helps the ice last longer. The ziploc bag keeps the water contained. This allows me to keep some smaller refrigerated items such as lunch meat, mayonnaise, small containers of yogurt, etc. I use a rubbermaid container with a spout for milk. It holds about a quart. Sometimes if I ask very nice at convenience stores they will allow me to fill a ziploc bag with ice from the soda machines.

[OneCrankyFemale]

If people can't find that mesh item with pockets that goes on the back of the seat, they can use a shoe holder that normally hangs on a wall or door.

[AuRowe]

Snowstorm in Grants PassOregon just before valentines day this year, got stuck in the snow on one of the mountains between Roseburg and Grants Pass and having an air mattress inflated in the backseat with a topper to block the heat under and a WEIGHTED BLANKET saved my life.

[alexistayler]

I’m only 49 seconds into this video and I already love her ❤️

[patrickloper]

I want to go to this lifestyle. I'm sick of the rat race. Actually the "Hamster wheel race". Running myself to death getting nowhere. I started 2 years ago. It's a process to get to where you are but I am getting there. Thank you for your tips and wisdom

[TrustingYourProcess]

Watching Bob's videos and others like Chrome and Crystal I have gained the courage to move into my van this month. I did buy a larger van but did a simple build just a plywood bed and bins. Just get started and improve as you go. It's about progress and not perfection.

[dalekundtz]

Another suggestion for over the seat storage is to take a full size bath towel and sew in compartments for your items and make a pouch at the top to slip over the headrest. Gives you some thing to do in camp...lol.

[randzopyr]

Also, depending on how many trips you're taking into town, you may just be able to buy fresh and eat fresh right after the trip, run through a bag of ice for 2-3 days, and then eat stable foods until the next trip to the store.

[janehope]

I get peppers, onions, carrots, cabbage and yams. Cut them small and season in pan to make soup or water saute. I avoid salt, sugar and oil. If it comes from a factory, I cannot eat it. I find it is much easier to clean up and healthier. Use my instant pot for beans and rice, when I can.

[serenakoleno]

Great ideas. Thank you for sharing! I would avoid the fruit cups. Not much nutrition. Better choices if fresh not possible would be dried raisins, prunes, apricots, etc. Also recommend nuts and seeds instead of those meals full of salt and white flour and sugar. Raw pumpkin seeds are a powerhouse of nutrition. Almonds, chia seeds, etc. May seem expensive, but you get 16 servings per pound. Chia and walnuts are full of omega 3 for heart health. Sprinkle on oatmeal.

[rea]

For protection as far as sprays go, wasp spray has a stream that goes a pretty good, unlike pepper spray which only help if a predator was within arms reach.

[mitziesmom]

I'm so glad you said three bursts is the universal sign for needing assistance; I was just starting to train my dog for recall using three short whistles! I'll stop that immediately. Thank you.

[EvieVermont]

Bob, I like the kindness of your approach and your not assuming everyone can do just anything! Great practical tips given in a giving manner, sometimes with humor— and a little self-deprecating. Like when you say I’m no expert and
Let’s talk with so and so, she knows her stuff.

[Jeaniesunshine-fbrk]

Looks like something I would have done when I was younger.
I'm 80 now.

[bhewiig]

I love the vinegar tip! The red cellophane tip too. Red light is also much better for you to be exposed to at night. The white/blue light actually has detrimental effects on us especially at night, and can keep us awake. I use red lights at night because they don't disrupt our melatonin and I am able to sleep better. Grateful for the videos you do. Practical and inspirational.