SO wise for a solo female traveler! It’s exactly what I would have to do, and would feel more secure being able to drive away from a situation without having to get out and hitch up!
@SkylinersYeti
Жыл бұрын
You are young and new to RV living. So many options to choose from and each has it's ups and downs. Towing a travel trailer has it's challenges especially backing up. I tow a 32 foot travel trailer with a combined length of 60 feet. Sometimes I feel like an Australian Road Train. It takes full concentration all of the time to tow a rig that large. A smaller rig would seem to be easier but too often people become complacent and then accidents occur. I have learned to look before I leap. I often walk ahead if I am concerned about finding a turn around ahead. I mostly boondock but older campgrounds were not designed for longer rigs and it often takes a couple of tries to get set up in a campground. For me the biggest down side of a van would be that you have to move camp every time you want to go some other place, i.e. grocery store, out to dinner, etc. I look forward to your one year anniversary of living in a van video and what have I learned?
@annecoffaro7404
Жыл бұрын
I live full-time in a 22 foot Class C. I spend at least 40 % of my time in the SF bay area near relatives. So I sometimes drive 2 to 3 times a day. Stowing things before you drive will be second nature quickly and is completely doable. You will enjoy your flexibility and new nimble size. Also, when you need things like an oil change or other work, let them know you are a fulltimer and have a dog. I have found everyone so far to be accommodating. Good luck!
@valerieann2751
Жыл бұрын
Think about getting an E bike for short errands and running around. Then you wouldn’t have to take the van all the time . I think that’s what I am going to do . Also, a 12 v AC is going to be a must for me as a well. I’m thinking of going with a Promaster, what made you go with Transit over that ? I know I don’t want a Sprinter because it’s too pricey to repair and I don’t want to mess with a diesel engine. And I too gave up on an RV to tow do to all the xtra work, plus I have severe arthritis and knew that would be an issue . Can’t wait to see your van !
@michaelgregory1013
6 ай бұрын
Nice overview. You put a lot of thought into your decision and agree with your decision. The VAN will fit better for you.
@heatherdoes7849
Жыл бұрын
I am definitely living vicariously through you. Your independence is inspiring and you seem to really do your homework. Looking forward to seeing the van build and upcoming content. Thanks for sharing!
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Thank you so much! 🥰
@lawrencewiddis2447
Жыл бұрын
You lose independence as fresh and waste tank sizes diminish.
@tdvegas760
4 ай бұрын
All valid reasons. Enjoy your new ride. 😊
@chrisbrown1462
Жыл бұрын
My rig is a popup camper and pickup truck. I like it a lot, but has some pretty big downsides - mainly no A/C options. Really limits camping in large parts of the year. Also the security issue of having to go outside to move to the cab. If I had it to do all over again i would have gone the van route.
@RandyPollock
Жыл бұрын
That makes each of us unique... for me with my RV, I would hate to have to unhook cables and hoses, stow, shelf, store, put away everything every time I wanted to just drive to a store or drive to work, hitching up and unhitching only when moving camp sites (for me) is easier... The cost of the van being more than a jeep and airstream shows how much the market is sticking it to the popularity of younger people wanting the van experience...wow.
@Butterflies.and.Tulips
Жыл бұрын
Yes, but for a female to have to do all the hitching up etc - personally there is no way I could or would do it.
@kathyguenther5866
Жыл бұрын
So excited for you Sarah...... I think you are making some very good decisions for yourself. Congratulations on your new purchase. Hugs from Minnesota...... Don't forget about the Mayo Clinic in the summer here in Rochester Minnesota for a work job.
@MSR_666
Жыл бұрын
Hi just out of curiosity, why not a class C rv? Instead of a van.
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Hey there! Mainly for appearance. Since the interior is being fully customized to my taste, it’s going to feel a LOT more like a home and less like an RV.
@kimdagnillo8246
Жыл бұрын
I’d have more than a bat and mace but you have to decide what’s comfortable for you . Your dog is the best alarm along with instincts/gut feeling.
@renbren3008
Жыл бұрын
Yeah, i knew that wasn't going to last long..the van is the way to go. I"m also a contract traveller and the van is amazing! And plenty of room for one and a pup...Congrats on the new rig.
@cherylmeadows2651
Жыл бұрын
I just found you and I’m hooked. I can’t wait to see and hear more about you and Rue and your story. 😃
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Woohoo! Welcome and thanks for following my journey. 😊
@VilleTVLouisville
Жыл бұрын
Totally agree, you need to be able to bug out of sketchy situations. I also recommend “personal protection”, hint hint
@msthuglife100
Жыл бұрын
You can leave your outdoor table and chair to secure your boondocking spot! Maybe pop up bug out screen tent
@A_World_Full_of_Lies
10 ай бұрын
The Airstream was nice but what ever works for you is best. As long as you are more comfortable, that’s all that matters. Me personally, I like tiny rv’s. I think your Airstream was just too big that’s all. Speaking from personal experience, a down side to van life is, there are a lot of remote places that a van just can’t go. Off road vehicles with small off road rv’s or truck campers can. That’s the only problem or down side I can think of. Happy travels!
@leslovesliberty1776
Жыл бұрын
I have followed your channel for awhile & have enjoyed seeing your evolution from apartment to tiny house to Airstream & now van. I have been considering all the above & appreciate learning the pros & cons of each. Thanks for bringing us all along on your adventures!!
@KaltrinaDemiri
Жыл бұрын
I couldn't imagine having to pull a trailer. Plus, having a trailer really stops you from stopping at a lot of cool places. I think the van is a good idea and safer for a solo female traveler as well.
@diannadarling699
Жыл бұрын
Lots of good points in this… glad you’re going overboard on the security Be sure to let the police do the tracking and apprehending of any purloined vehicle …
@shirleyrowe4078
Жыл бұрын
New viewer and subscriber here! I’ve watched thousands of van videos. I hope to build out a van in the next few years. One thing you might want to consider: getting a small bike or folding bike so you can zip off to a nearby grocery store and leave the van parked it you are boon docking. It could be useful for quick errands where you feel ok leaving your pup for just a very short time. Can’t wait to see your build!
@violetpurple6191
Жыл бұрын
These are all really insightful reasons, thanks for the video!😊
@judithcatlett8518
Жыл бұрын
Security suggestion. Have an extra loud horn, flood lights that blink different colors, possibly a step away from the vehicle voice recording, and of course a couple of cameras that can be viewed from your phone. For you personally, pepper spray, a bat and direct line to 911.
@maryjonorum107
Жыл бұрын
An air horn for sure….good idea!
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Sweet, thank you for the suggestions! 👏
@Tobynsocks
Жыл бұрын
I would get a gun. You're going to be traveling in some places that are very remote you might not even have cell service which won't be able to get the police out there that is why so many states fight to maintain their second amendment. For example I know someone who is a maine State Trooper and he patrols an area the size of Rhode Island by himself. His backup is two hours away traveling at 120 miles an hour. Get a gun
@raltgaither
Жыл бұрын
Thanks for the update. Can't wait for the next one.
@lindawoody8501
Жыл бұрын
The biggest downside of your giving up the Airstream is your Ford van and the build will depreciate faster than the Airstream. Airstreams are expensive but tend to keep good value a long time. Yes, the Class B is a good nimble vehicle and you will enjoy it! Will be easy to drive - especially the Transit versus say the older Ford Econoline type bigger vans.
@Michelle-bw1xg
Жыл бұрын
You did great learning how to tow the Airstream! Your decision makes great sense. Nice you have a job that supports travel and a professional conversion...what year of Transit? What are mechanical downsides of Transits? I had lifelong dream of motorized Airstream, now dream is a Transit or minivan, perhaps a kit build for full-time living with boondock ability. Enjoying your journeys. A video on how you chose specs for your Transit would be great to view.
@Michelle-bw1xg
Жыл бұрын
Just found your short, 2022 Transit 350, 148"wb extended length, high top. Sweet! If you looked at Ram Promaster also, curious why it didn't make your top pick. Many consider Transit, Ram Promaster, and Sprinter before deciding.
@cyndiloo3041
Жыл бұрын
So, so helpful, thank you!! Planning to also be a solo female nomad!
@THLEamon
Жыл бұрын
A van is defiantly they way to go for a solo nomadic life. I am sure it will serve you well
@mikemanjo2458
Жыл бұрын
Enjoy your videos. Glad you’re getting a van...especially for your safety. Excited to see the process with Drifter. Thanks for sharing with us! Jane in SC ❤🙏🏻
@vgh332
Жыл бұрын
I got so excited when i saw your upload!!!!
@TeacherTonya74
Жыл бұрын
I'm sure you've done your research because, that is just you! But if you want to check out LivinRVision, they have done the exact same thing. They used to have an Airstream and are now roaming the country with a Grech van. Maybe some of their advice might help you avoid some of the pitfalls they've discovered. They have said that even though they have lost some space, they really enjoy the freedom of being able to go through the national parks much more easily. I wish you the best. You are my role model!!! (Even though I'm much older). I'm going to check out Drifter Vans too!
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Sweet, thanks! I will definitely check them out. If you chat with the guys at Drifter Vans, tell them I say hey! 👋 They’ve been so great to work with. Good luck!!
@seniorripper
Жыл бұрын
Loved your astronaut analogy. If you can, see if you can find "The Longest Goodbye", it's a documentary that appeared at Sundance this year about psychologically preparing astronauts for a Mars voyage. One of the featured astronauts talked about her stress over returning to earth after 6 months in space (and away from her family). She "candidly" said that if they had offered her another 6 months, she would have taken it.
@ramontoro
Жыл бұрын
hello from Puerto Rico , First time to see your videos , interesting information and helpful ,thanks and from now subscribe
@edyost6433
Жыл бұрын
Great video and explanations on the pros and cons. I think you did right going with the Ford. A friend of mine has the Mercedes and the cost of maintenance is so much higher and it has to go to an authorized dealer. That German maintenance comes at a premium.
@Annette_Hons
Жыл бұрын
I was wondering why you didn't trade in your airstream for maybe an airstream atlas or interstate ..... then I saw how much they were and answered my own question. Nice though. I love the Atlas, but won't work for three of us.
@master_branch
Жыл бұрын
Sarah why are you so happy? Are you OK?
@richardcooper7047
Жыл бұрын
You are better off with the Ford over the Mercedes... The Ford will give you much better service. Many purchase Mercedes because of the name. But the repair record on the Mercedes historically have not been favorable. ENJOY!!!
@lifeswhimsytutelage
Жыл бұрын
Hi Sarah. You have hit almost all of the reasons I’m looking to down size from my truck / 5th wheel to a van!! Thank you.
@kathyhays9819
Жыл бұрын
Simply safe is good for your van . I see a lot of them has that
@kariturks8191
Жыл бұрын
Exciting!!
@davidandmoose1499
Жыл бұрын
Don't give anymore thought of going with the all-wheel drive Transit versus the 4x4 Sprinter, because as of the 2023 Sprinter models, Mercedes no longer offers the Sprinter in a 4x4, they have switch to all-wheel drive only.
@SmokyMountainBlessed
Жыл бұрын
those were all good reasons to switch, we have a van on our list for trips, our vintage RV is too much trouble to make many trips for us
@cocochanel9291
Жыл бұрын
I went from an Airstream to a Class B. Completely get it and it makes perfect sense. Good luck and safe travels !
@deborahashaw6044
Жыл бұрын
What will you do with your vehicle? I’m excited for you Sarah !! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
@careya
Жыл бұрын
You are so right about Ford v Sprinter. I have a Sprinter and it’s such a pain to find someone to work on it.
@radley3519
Жыл бұрын
This video rocks thanks so much!
@shannonking6328
Жыл бұрын
Very good idea to get the Ford instead of the Sprinter. I have heard of Sprinters breaking down more frequently, some that are even quite new with less than 2000 miles on them. As you said, there are so fewer mechanics who can work on Sprinters, that you could have been in for a huge tow bill, not to mention the cost of the repairs. I would think that those Mercedes places might also be so backed up since there are fewer of them that it would take longer to repair your van if it were a Sprinter. Also, I think that the Mercedes logo might invite more break-ins, especially dangerous when everything you own is inside. It's like traveling with designer luggage.
@patspears2226
Жыл бұрын
For belonging security, consider having a lockable dog crate where you can put laptops etc in when you step quickly away.
@carolynek1875
Жыл бұрын
Easier drive.. being able to park where you want to see things.. parking is easier too.. the best thing you could have done was sold that airstream.. now you'll be able to do a lot more in your van.. have fun!! .. make new memories!!
@TheSmdl
Жыл бұрын
After car camping. For full time a van. Easy to park anywhere. More possibility to go to places a trailer cannot go. More stealth. And as a solo traveler, for safety, no going out of the car to go into the trailer and attracting attention. And just jumping in front seat to leave. Plus you need to worry about needing a hitch lock. They are not always reliable.
@ZionRV
Жыл бұрын
I almost purchased an Airstream and a car, only to learn of the things that you are discussing. I purchased a Roadtrek Zion, a complete RV. You will have so much fun boondocking. City urban parking is so much fun!!!
@TheBenperri
Жыл бұрын
Do you think, even with the size decrease, you'll still be limited to where you can take the van ie some mountain roads and trailheads?
@Gman-qm6bv
Жыл бұрын
Class B's are higher $$$$ than a cat's back. That is the only reason we are still pulling a travel trailer. Glad you are getting a new class B, stay safe!
@Shelty6
Жыл бұрын
I switched from tow behind to camper van also. Much easier. Mine is Sprinter engine and Ram coach. 24 foot. It has a slide so there is much more room for me and my 4 dogs
@barb108
Жыл бұрын
I car camp quite a bit and I purchased a cheap ($30) tent from Walmart as a space holder for when I'm camping in a non-reserved spot. It takes less than 15 minutes to set up and dismantle and it is a good place to store firewood or anything else that I don't want to bring in the car. That way I can drive off to trailheads or wherever knowing that my space will be waiting.
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
This is genius!! Thank you!
@valerieann2751
Жыл бұрын
That’s a great idea. Maybe one of those clam screen rooms, then could use it while set up at your site as well.
@Butterflies.and.Tulips
Жыл бұрын
What a great idea!
@mithrandirwhite9823
Жыл бұрын
I would suggest using a pop up tent for this purpose. It sets up in literally in 5 seconds. Folding it up needs a bit more finesse but it’s easy once you know how. It takes me around 45 seconds to pack up the tent now after some practice. Also, looking forward to your floor plan and build of the van video.
@tdiddle8950
Жыл бұрын
I would recommend a secondary GPS tracker that you don't talk about on KZitem. I haven't seen your video about the tracker you mentioned, but I would be aware of the common practices of how these devices are placed, and then I would think alternatively about where I placed one or two of these trackers on my own rig so that a thief couldn't locate and remove the tracker easily...if you want to go the extra mile. Also, there is remote fuel shut off, which can render your vehicle inoperable either soon after it's stolen or just when the police catch up with it. Certainly, a superlative thief can get around any countermeasure, but the trick is to assess your own personal threat level vs. your comfort level vs. how much you are willing to think about, worrying about, and spending money on countermeasures. There are a LOT of countermeasures out there. You can also have a personal locking tire boot like municipalities use for illegally parked vehicles. This is a fairly rare countermeasure that few thieves would be ready to counteract...but placing and removing such a boot can be a pain. You can also have a Wi-Fi system on the van and then have a Wi-Fi security camera. Such a camera would text you if anyone trips the motion sensor. You could then use your phone to see, and even speak to (through intercom), someone who is transgressing on your property. I would think that if someone went up to steal a van, and a voice came on that said I see you and if you don't leave, I'm calling the cops...well, that would be a significant deterrent. If such a thing occurs, it would be best to be aware of the precise address of the van to be able to tell a 911 operator a location that law enforcement could find quickly. I don't know if they use GPS coordinates at all, but I doubt it would be a common practice...at least for urban areas. Also, a Wi-Fi security system can be useful when you're sleeping. It can wake you and turn on flood lights. Or it could be infrared so that anyone coming around wouldn't know that you had been alerted to their presence.
@Shelty6
Жыл бұрын
What about showering and toilet?
@dawnkuenzli9543
Жыл бұрын
Sarah, I completely understand. I decided to trade in my Airstream on a smaller trailer that doesn’t require a weight distribution or sway system (a T@b.). I can do it, but I was worried about it every time.
@frankveronese1290
Жыл бұрын
Good luck with your new adventures. Ford was a good choice. Wishing you safe travels with God as your copilot!
@jimberg4917
2 ай бұрын
NOPE. I ditched my Coachman Nova for an Airstream 22 FB. Too narrow, too confined and makes you feel claustrophobic.
@curtisdbird
11 ай бұрын
Did you imply that you can finance the van and build into one payment plan? How if possible? Thank you and pray for Gods protection while you adventure. 🙏👍
@bobmoser726
Жыл бұрын
Some builders offer auto start generators for running the AC or if there is second under hood generator with lithium the engine will start if batteries fall below a set level
@randallsguaranteedsold6361
Жыл бұрын
Cool video. I’ll look forward to your future adventures!
@garyt2005
4 ай бұрын
Always sleep in your van. Never leave it alone all night. Maybe huge mens boots on ground outside door. GT
@stpetefl
Ай бұрын
So much better in a Campervan! Vanlife! ❤️🏳️🌈
@LifewithQuads
Жыл бұрын
Hey to boondocking don’t unhook
@brianf9615
9 ай бұрын
Does your van have a spare tire. The reason I ask is because I looked at a Airstream Atlas and it does not come with a spare nor does it even have a place for one. Got to have a spare tire.
@cherylroumillat3660
Жыл бұрын
Beautiful Blessing Gorgeous Darling. 🦄🌿💜
@sferris33
9 ай бұрын
The only thing that I didn’t see you mention was how would you take a shower
@turnbullstravels735
Жыл бұрын
I full time in a 38’ class a with my husband…and we joke all the time that if one of us passes away, the survivor is switching to a van! Well, he’s joking. I am serious. 😂
@edwardmoran1739
8 ай бұрын
You must have an interesting job where you move around.
@hctim96
Жыл бұрын
Interesting dog name. My Rhodesian Ridgeback, who was the color of deck shoes was named Rua.. Irish for RED!!! I called him Ru sometimes...Small world, eh? Have you ever followed Eva zu Beck? she is a overland traveler with a Land Rover and a puppy.. Neat stuff.. Happy Trails..
@chip9177
10 ай бұрын
Nope, need a dry bath & dont want to have to create my bed every night
@sharonrimsza7960
Жыл бұрын
Recommend an e-bike. These are awesome. And, I used The Club XL. No one is going to be able to cut that baby. I used it on a couple collector cars that did not have the locking features that newer cars have. And, I am sure you have an extra set of keys ‘hidden’ somewhere attached to your vehicle. Trust me…important. Looking forward to your adventures.
@DisabledVet317
Жыл бұрын
Why buy some fancy GPS location security when you can just hide a $30 AirTag in the vehicle somewhere and then just charge it every couple months when it tells you the battery is running low? Just a thought! Hope it helps!
@Mspuffs1996
Жыл бұрын
So this is something I really want to do. I’ve been getting so overwhelmed by which route to go though, from travel trailer to mobile home to van life. I also have a dog and cats that I would be taking with me. Currently I’m a massage therapist but I want to do something remotely so I can be around them more. But you have made it seem possible to also take jobs outside of the trailer so thank you! My next biggest concern is the type of towing truck. So many people say that you should get a 3/4 ton but is that what yours is?
@judydominguez59
Жыл бұрын
Hello from Southern California, It all makes sense.....setting up camp, breaking down, driving everything you mentioned I agree with. I'm happy for you and you are able to purchase your home on wheels 😀, especially when you have to get up and go in a hurry....I'm looking forward to your upcoming videos. Stay safe
@johnnyledbetter2119
Жыл бұрын
I'm learning a lot from you. Thank you for this content. The thing I'm worried about with strictly van living is the ability to shower frequently and comfortably. Good luck to you and please keep making these videos! 🙋♂️🙏
@candyalexander2196
Жыл бұрын
Great idea my cousin from TX was camping in FL they took a 3 day excursion their new camper stolen with lap top tablets jewelry and personal protection and ment hotels and a shortened vacation u were sooooo right in ur choices
@paulfrederiksen5411
Жыл бұрын
First off, I love Roo, your Siberian Husky! I've been debating travel trailer vs class B motorhome. I understand your thoughts about boon-docking. I was camped in a forest service "dispersed camping site" near McCall, ID. I was "car camping" in my Silverado P/U with a shell...went driving around to shop and see the sights, left my 10X10 pop-up and my beach chair. Upon returning, someone had moved into my spot...my pop-up and chair were gone, and the new people said there was nothing there when the set up their camp. Arrrghh! I'll be following your progress with your adventures, and I think you are very cute! I'm going to be 69 this year, so like you, I'm not ever going to "rough-it" in a tent again like I used to. Happy Travels!
@tykematlack7588
Жыл бұрын
Well this is so exciting!!!! Can’t wait until you’re inside and having a blast! Go play!
@vevedarklink
4 ай бұрын
Ty for the Videos, considering traveling a bit as I am in healthcare too. Really appreciate the honesty and realness for lack of a better term! 😁
@twbelieves
Жыл бұрын
You will have a lot less room. If something happens to the coach when it goes into service all your belongings go also. Smaller holding tanks.
@johnwu7985
Жыл бұрын
AC for my dog is my main concern too when we leave for 5 hours. I’m looking for a van to fit a family of 5 with a dog. Maybe the airstream interstate 24 could be ideal? Idk
@jtwilson2089
Жыл бұрын
"We are a FORD ALL the WAY PEOPLE TOO"
@lindasteinbrenner8065
Жыл бұрын
I agree with you 100 percent. Your pro/con list makes sense. Did you get the Ford Transit Trail with AWD? Excited for you!
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!! Nope, I won’t have the Trail version, but it is AWD and we will be making modifications that match the features that the Transit Trail offers.
@lindasteinbrenner8065
Жыл бұрын
@@NomadicSarah So good to hear! 👍🏻
@puppycat58
Жыл бұрын
What happens when your space is cut in half and your fur baby hasn't much room to walk around
@darlene6670
Жыл бұрын
You do an amazing job taking care of her and making sure she is safe and comfortable. She belongs with you where ever you go! She is your bestie.... I'm excited for you with your new venture!
@be.kind.to.animals
Жыл бұрын
Definitely safety is the number one reason I think switching is a great idea. Love the new van colour. Rue and you will be very happy.
@stacieivey7104
6 ай бұрын
Great info and thanks 🙏
@reganmccutcheon7988
Жыл бұрын
Get yourself an electric bike, then you have an extra vehicle for short trips without moving van.
@donr6499
Жыл бұрын
Don't worry about the Ford only having AWG. I'd bet it has "Traction Control" and that will have more traction than a "4X4". It uses the brakes automatically to control the spinning wheel(S). There's a good chance the Sprinter has the same thing but just used the different name. I think you'll love it!!! Just remember to find out the height of the vehicle and put a sticker on the dash. It may be taller than the Airstream even with the A/C. (I did notice they used a low profile A/C in the picture of your van)
@NomadicSarah
Жыл бұрын
Thank you!! I’m glad I went with the 12V air conditioner because of that smaller size. Love the sticker in the dash idea, I did the same thing with the Airstream.
@donr6499
Жыл бұрын
@@NomadicSarah But... now you can go through the Drive-Thru and you don't want to have a Jeep flash-back. The Crunching you hear may not be the doggo chewing her new bone :>)
@jaquelinebiggs3394
Жыл бұрын
Many folks use an inexpensive tent as a space saver, setting it up before driving their van off to get groceries or see the sights.
@MRHEAT20
Жыл бұрын
CHEERS TO THE FUTURE- wishing nothing but the best for you 2 🍻
@carolynallen7363
Жыл бұрын
Hi Sarah, did you consider getting a class b+ model?
@grntchstrmdws
Жыл бұрын
Lots of food for thought.
@egidiomeola
3 ай бұрын
Tow a mini Cooper
@bekimoore8761
Жыл бұрын
You made the best decision for you. You said it perfectly. :)
@scottelwood8746
Жыл бұрын
For your boondock spot pitch up a cheap tent with another old camp chairs etc.
@roserocker62
Жыл бұрын
Awesome video. Best wishes. What an inspiration you are .
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