One Year Living in a Van What I've Learned

Hey everyone! I'm Nate. I live the van life full time out of a custom Honda Element camper conversion. In this video I discuss my one year anniversary of living in the Element full time and share some of the lessons I've learned along the way. Please like, subscribe and feel free to ask any questions below!

Enjoy my channel? Want to help contribute?

Become a Patron:

Buy a Sticker:

Use My Amazon Store Link:

Follow me on social media!

[FrankGreenway]

Everytime I see a Honda Element I think about you. you're definitely the poster man for living free.

[fastxsam]

Nate take it from a person who has been through alot in his 20s and now almost 40, it doesn't matter what people think. As you grow older you will realize that the only thing matters is what YOU think. And basically push away any negativity in your life.

I think you'll be just fine.

BTW if you're ever in NYC area lets go for lunch or whatever. Hit me up

[djfelliar]

Such a small world! I moved into my Element a year ago as well on February 2nd. It's one of those rare occasions where you can confirm that another person is doing the same thing you are doing.

[ellevanroamer]

Be proud of your decision, always. Do you know how many people are jealous of your happiness choice? It's probably the same people who have negative things to say to you, live your life son, proud of you and your great videos!

[ParkerAnderson]

I did some car camping and then some van dwelling because I was in transition and I did not want to waste my financial resources for expensive motel bills. I do feel some shame for living that lifestyle but at least I can say I tried it and in some respects I think it made me a stronger person. As you talk about in your video, it made me more thankful for the resources I have and I am more compassionate for those who are using vehicles for shelter and a place to sleep. It is my understanding that it is possible that the human body can die if it does not get sleep for 10 days. With that said, I don't think it should ever be against the law for a person to sleep in a vehicle.

[mistermikeyjay]

Happy Vanniversary! It's true many will criticize, but as long as you are happy and not harming anyone else than enjoy your life. I wish you nothing but peace in your journeys. Stay safe bro.

[georgereichert]

Congratulations on one year in the Element! Will continue to follow your activities.

[stealthnurse]

thank you Nate these are the many reasons why I've been living in my van for 6 years.

[NoProGoPronto]

Happy one year Van-niversary Nate! It's been great watching your videos this past year and I wish you great health and more fun filled adventures moving forward👍😃

[ianclough]

Wise words Nate ! People worry way too much about crap. Your a smart guy . Happy Vanniversary and stay Proud Man .

[universal]

Awesome. Most people stay in the cocoon state through out their entire lives, you are evolving into a butterfly. good job.

[FOASQUAD]

Hey Nate. I will say that this video to me, is your most inspiring video to date. It really pinpoint some good points about the lifestyle.

[rascal]

Thanks for your relating many experiences with candor and warmth. I'm sure that you have many friends all over. You are sure to be successful wherever you go.

[GG-sifw]

Congratulations, Nate. Well versed narrative. I can tell a lot of thought and self reflection went into this video.

[philipvink]

Yes! Nate, you don't need to be a person pleaser. Thanks for the videos. Be safe travels.

[MinimalistMotoLife]

"where do you live?" When I lived in a house I always answered vaguely "somewhere around...", there's nothing wrong with keeping your privacy private. The few times I was asked after going full time mobile I replied "off in the mountains, wherever I want." then if they probed further "I basically camp full time"

Minimalism is a slippery slope, I just kept getting more and more minimalist until I was vehicleless tent living. tent life was good but after getting a dog I had to bring back the luxury of a motorized metal tent on wheels(Civic wagon 4wd, doing a build and maintenance on it quick before moving in).
The freedom thing goes hand in hand with that, IMO you are never free until you give up your dependence on a vehicle, the roads, cut up your driver's license etc.. The van life is a massive leap towards freedom compared to conventional life though.

subbing

[theprodigyuk]

happy vanaversary Nate. you should be proud of your choice and continue to be true to yourself. all the best for the future :)

[WookieSenshi]

Nate, you are a genuinely awesome dude. Really glad that I found your channel. Keep up the great work and just keep being you!

[mrbr]

Another nice video Nate! Isn't it amazing what a person can learn in only a year? I really like how you broke it down into distinct areas that you have improved in. As a long time subscriber, I can see how far you have came, and I've enjoyed the whole process. I sub a lot of RV and van dwellers, and I like them all, but your channel stands out somewhat because you are constantly evolving and growing. I'm looking forward to your many future videos buddy.

[halliadams]

Happy one year anniversary!!!☺ Thanks for discussing some of the "not so nice" parts of vandwelling. Knowing the pros and cons makes me feel much more prepared to start my vandwelling experience!👍