Category: Simple Life RVing Blog

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What You Need To Know Before Starting #VanLife

What You Need To Know Before Starting #VanLife
 
July  10, 2019
 
by Cathy Harris, Syndicated Columnist

 

Are You Ready for #VanLife?

Bob Wells, from CheapRVLiving.com, has been educating travelers for years on his website and onyoutube.com on how you can successfully live in a car, van or RV and be totally content. 
 
I love what he is doing and it did inspire me to continue some of his work also with my NEW PLATFORM at SimpleLifeRVing.com. 
 
He has stayed in a van for over 15 years after initially going through a divorce and trying to pay for two households. 
 

Why You Should Choose #VanLife

Everyone needs to introduce 
#VanLife in their social networks and motivate everyone to get out on the road and live their lives to the fullest. 
 
Caravan Carolyn has 10 reasons to live in your van. Other advantages of living in a van include:
  • You get better gas mileage with a van. 
  • It’s quick and you get great mobility so you can get up and go.
  • it’s great for stealth camping. You can park vans anywhere you park cars. You can do this without anyone knowing you are inside.
  • Unlike bigger RVs, you can engage in “Driveway or Mooch Surfing/Parking, where you stay at family members and/or friends’ homes — sometimes called “CouchSurfing.com.” Many youtube.com supporters will also offer up their places for you to stay also.
  • Vans can go into the back country and woods and stay there for weeks. 
  • You can strip out a van yourself or have a professional do a #ProfessionalVanBuild for you for around $5000 to $10,000. The biggest fees will probably be the solar, batteries, inverters, and refrigerators. Many use the smaller Dometic or Whynter refrigerators from Amazon.com or they just buy a small refrigerator at Walmart, Lowe’s or Home Depot. 
  • There is a demand for a smaller type of RV that can go to more places. The Class B Van and/or RV is one of the most expensive RVs starting at prices of $70,000 for used to $150,000 for new. So in many cases, it will be better to buy a good used van and have someone build it out with a #VanBuild or you can build it out yourself.
  • Regular vans are more affordable than a Class B Van, Class B plus (also called ‘Class C’), Class A’s, Travel Trailers or Fifth Wheels.
  • You can get a used van for $3000 to $5000 on facebook marketplace, eBay, or craigslist or even cheaper from a personal seller. 

Top Mistakes of #VanDwellers

#VanLife is trending all over social media. You’ve seen the Instagram photos and features in Outside magazine. But life on the road isn’t all epic adventures and Pinterest-worthy decor.

And while most of the stories in the New York Times or ESPN focus on the freedom and glamour of living on the road, it’s time to get real.

There are things to know to make van life ‘sustainable’.

Anyone can live on camp food for a week or go a few days without showering, but if you’re really considering making a two-ton rolling heap of metal your house, here’s what you should consider before it becomes your permanent hiking base camp.

Just some of the mistakes that #VanLifers are regretting include:

  • Invest in a Good Van: Invest in a good van from the very beginning. Have someone or a good mechanic look over the van. It doesn’t make sense to invest in a van that is going to break down, especially after you pay for a #ProfessionalVanBuild.
  • Roof Height: The roof height does matter so go with a van with a higher roof height. No one wants to continuously have to bend down all the time. After a while, it can get pretty uncomfortable.
  • Weight: Make sure you balance the weight on both sides or it can cause your van to lean to one side.
  • Insulation: Don’t skip putting in insulation even if you don’t plan on being in cold weather. Without good insulation, your van will get ‘too hot’ or ‘too cold.’
  • Wood/Gas Mileage: If you plan on putting wood in the ceilings, walls or any part of your van, make sure the wood is not too heavy, which can cut down on gas mileage. Also, use the correct wood for your flooring.
  • Solar Panels: Don’t skip solar panels. Get at least 400 watts to charge your ‘battery bank’ and run everything.
  • Mobile Grid: Try to invest in a ‘mobile grid’ (solar, batteries, inverters, etc.) big enough to handle your van and lifestyle. Many never think about how many amps or watts an electronic device used. To put it simply — you’ll want as much power as possible to try and maintain the lifestyle you had before.
  • Controls: It’s easier to put all the controls in one place.
  • Light Switches: Make sure light switches don’t automatically come on when the door is opened. Put LED lights in your van especially over the stove for cooking. 
  • Storage: Put drawers in instead of having to throw pillows off to reach storage. The more drawers or storage space sometimes the better. Leave room for sporting gear – kayak, bike, etc.
  • Sinks: Get a bigger sink and countertop if you like to cook. For others don’t make your sink too big. You can use a water jug instead of a faucet so you don’t really need a faucet in your van. Get a system where it’s easy to fill the fresh water tank and you can automatically drain the gray tank when sitting in a good spot. 
  • Oven/Microwave: Put in an oven or microwave if you want these items. However, many will choose more foods that don’t need to be prepared with heat. Having juicers and steamers work even better.  
  • Propane: Many #VanLifers take this advantage not to use propane at all in their new home. You can use the Mr. Buddy heater in the winter months or the Olympian Wave 3 heater instead or just become a Snowbird and follow 70-degree weather around the country. 
  • Shower/Bathroom: Put a shower in if you want this item. Whether a bucket, bag, or bottle, you need somewhere to take care of business when nature calls at 3 a.m. Figure out which option is most comfortable for you, but make sure you have at least one ‘go-to’ for any emergency.
  • Fan: Your van is going to get hot so invest in a good Fantastic Fan or Maxxair Fan. Also, get a topper for the fan so that it doesn’t blow off when you drive. Many Van Dwellers choose to put in two fans to get a cross-breeze, especially if they don’t have windows to open. 
  • Windows:  Make sure you have windows or being in the van all the time and not being able to see out  –can be depressing. There are different types of van windows. Some go out and some slide open. Get the ones that slide open so they won’t blow out, especially when you drive. And this way you will have more ventilation with your fan.  
  • Table: Invest in more expensive table mounts. Make your mounts big enough to hold tables and other items and don’t make these items too big.
  • Drawers/Cabinets: Try not to put sharp edge handles that stick out that will injure you, especially at your head or knee level. Make cabinets easy to open with hinges and easy to close with magnets during travel.
  • Hooks: Get plenty of hooks. You will use them. Put them especially closer to the door to air and dry out big coats.
  • Walkways: Try not to have narrow walkways. It’s best to put the refrigerator toward the front of the van or closer to the kitchen cabinets.
  • Off-Road: If you plan on taking your van off-road invest in a good winch to carry along with you in case you get stuck. 
  • Be Stealthy: Many get into this life just so they can stealth camp and park anywhere where cars can park. Put a partition wall instead of curtains for stealth camping when separating the front part of the van from the back part. Or cover the windshield and front windows with blackout curtains or some other material. There are several companies that make blackout curtains — just for van windows. 
  • Bed: Try to replicate your home when making your bed or you might end up uncomfortable so invest in a good bed. 

Estimated Cost of a Van Build

Most #ProfessionalVanBuilds can cost anywhere from $5,000 to $10,000. However, you or a family can do this yourself at a much cheaper price. Watch the van build shows on youtube.com or go to a van build in person.

Here is just one estimate of a #VanBuild:

  • Window – $290
  • Fantastic Fan – $150
  • Insulation – spray foam – reflectix – $575
  • LED ceiling lights – $45
  • Color changing led light strips – $35
  • Pine for ceiling – $56
  • Shellac on walls – $122
  • Laminated wood flooring at Costco – $104
  • Subboard – $69
  • Roof rack $500 (Some cost $3,000)
  • Solar panels –  Two 100 watt Solar Panels with wiring and controller – $494 
  • Two 100 AGM batteries – $200 each
  • Renogy 200 watts Inverter – $678
  • Control panel – $112
  • Cabinet plywood – $132
  • Steel studs to frame out benches – $76
  • Swivel for table – $189
  • Ikea walnut countertop – $209
  • Sink – $227
  • Faucet – $224
  • Water pump – $60
  • 2 burner stove top – $256
  • Propane tank – 5 lbs – $50
  • Two 60 gallon fresh water tank – $45
  • 5-gallon grey water tank – $25
  • Grey water value – $35
  • Dometic refrigerator – $619
  • Natures head composting toilet – $950
  • Nuts, bolts, drawer slides, adhesive – $304

= Estimated Cost Around – $5,000 to $10,000

Odds are this won’t be your life for the rest of your life. At some point, you’ll probably tire of the life and decide to inhabit a more immobile dwelling — maybe.

So enjoy your time as a nomad—even when you wake up in a pool of sweat. Or hear people fighting close to your walls or when you bump your knee on some protruding feature in your small living space.

Ultimately, the things you’ll experience as a result of making this jump are the type most people work a lifetime to do in two weeks of an annual vacation.

Join van groups online to learn more about #VanLife:

For places to park as a Van Dweller check out the blog post entitled “How To Live Successfully in a Car or Van.”
 
 
Hopefully, you found this blog to be educational. I do love sharing info as an #InformationJunkie so don’t forget to share my info and links below and be an active part of my NEW JOURNEY and blog at www.SimpleLifeRVing.com.
 

Cathy Harris is a New Earth Educator, Speaker, Author, GMO Educator, and Holistic Healer at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com and she offers seminars, workshops, and consultations on Health/Gardening, Business, and Spirituality. She is the author of 6 health books, 2 business books, and 20 other nonfiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. You can email Cathy at AskCathy@DearCathy.com or Cathy@CathyHarrisInternational.com and bring Cathy’s Mobile Learning Clubs (www.MobileLearningClubs.com) and Cathy’s Caravan (www.CathysCaravan.com) to your city.

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How To Live Successfully in a Car or Van – (How To Buy A Car)

How To Live Successfully  in A Car or Van
 
 
 

People are struggling to be comfortable in their cars today as they go back and forth and live their lives. But what if they had to literally live in their cars?

 Bob Wells from Cheap RV Living on youtube thinks that once the government sees how many people are living in cars, vans, RVs, etc., due to the homeless situation, it will propel the government to take action to take care of them.  

However, I believe the government (along with the medical and pharmaceutical industry) only cares about ‘population control’ and ‘killing folks off’ because there are too many people in the world. So it’s up to all of us to take care of each other.
 
Why Many Travelers Are Living in Cars and Vans vs. RVs
 
I know most of you read the article I wrote entitled  “The Truth About The RV Industry – What You Need To Know About Camping World” and why as soon as you buy an RV, you need to be ready also to do your own repairs even if you have an ‘extended warranty’ or be ready to pay top dollars to get others to do these repairs for you. 
 
This is so true. I am sure many of you found the article to be ‘very problematic’ – like me – especially with what has happened at Camping World  — being on the verge of bankruptcy because of their ‘unethical’ practices.
 
Even Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com has said on many occasions in his videos that living in an RV can be a #MoneyPit. After conducting months of extensive research — I agree totally.
 
All of my research in the RV industry opened the doorway for me to also educate everyone on why living in a car and/or van or a similar vehicle might be a better way to reinvent or change your life than buying an RV.
 
Many won’t be in a position to live in an RV or Motorhome or do these expensive and extensive repairs, especially many women, so they should think about living in a car, van or similar vehicle instead. 
 
Many travelers, especially women, with Travel Trailers or Fifth Wheels, which can be dangerous to get out of and hook up at times (from ‘man’ and/or ‘beast’), have decided to downsize to #VanLife instead. So again, living in an RV might not be right for everyone.
 
 

Remember, you can save a ton of money while Car or Van Dwelling also, so look at these options, if you need to pay off bills and save for the future. 

Who Should Think About Car or Van Life?
 
Who seriously should think about Car or #VanLife?
  • Save Money Quickly: Those individuals who need to save money quickly should consider moving into a car or van.  If you are attempting to do #VanLife then move into your car until you have enough money saved. If you need to find an apartment then move into your car, van or a similar vehicle until you have enough money saved. If you need to buy a house, then move into your car, van or similar vehicle until you have enough saved.
  • Students Going Off to College: Not all students that go off or try to go off to college have supportive parents. Many college students today are trying to find ways to cut down on tuition. They can live in a car, van or a similar vehicle and cut down on dorm fees. 
  • Abused Employees: Over the years as a ‘Discrimination and Workplace Consultant’, I have watched tons of women and men lose their homes due to wrongful terminations and discrimination on their jobs. Many walked straight from their homes to the streets. They had no other choice but to get involved in prostitution or selling drugs and/or ended up homeless or in jail.
  • Abusive Spouses: Others, especially women, out here in the Car and Van Dwelling community have had to run away from ‘abusive spouses’. No one should be forced to live in a relationship with anyone where they are not happy. Did you know most Domestic Violence hotlines are flooded with calls for help from women after the holidays (especially in January) once the bills come in?
  • Sickness: Just remember the NUMBER ONE REASON that most people lose their apartments or homes is SICKNESS, so it’s important to take care of your health. I don’t know if I would choose to get out here on the road if I was sick (probably not), but getting out here on the road can help you in the long run from getting sick. You can take care of yourself better by being out there on the road because you can afford #BetterFoods (#OrganicFoods) and breathe in a better quality of air, especially if you choose to camp out on BLM.gov or National Forest land. Also, if you can’t afford the high cost of medications, think about living in a car, van or a similar vehicle. 
  • Homelessness:  Having too many bills can make anyone sick or homeless in a heartbeat. Many women and men have these big ’empty’ homes and can barely keep their heads above water because of all these high bills. They are underwater on their mortgage and don’t have a way out. So these are the individuals that need to consider moving into a car, van, or similar vehicle, especially if they are looking at becoming homeless. Land is the most valuable commodity you can have so don’t think I am telling you to just give your land away — because I am not. Unless you take care of yourself and your land and especially pay your taxes, the government is going to take it anyway. So do something with it or turn it over to family members who can. You can turn your land into an RV park or allow others to rent part of it to grow foods. When buying a house, only buy a house that does not have Homeowner’s Association (HOAs) fees because you probably won’t be able to grow foods in the front yard. If you need a break from it all, take a break and come out on the road and build a new life for yourself. 
Any of these situations can cause even the sanest of people to come unglued — physically, mentally and spiritually — and this is what is happening today. So consider leaving it all behind and get out here on the road. 
 
How To Fix Your Car Up to Live in It
 

Since RVs are made so poorly with cheap material and can break in half 20 miles down the road, you need to consider converting other vehicles for your traveling pleasures.

Keep in mind that Camper Trucks and Vans are also called “RVs” and/or “Motorhomes.” Many travelers today because of the economy and just to be able to travel and see some beautiful sites are living in small and large cars, SUVs, trucks, mini-vans, camper trucks, camper vans, box vans, cargo vans, old bread trucks, converted Federal Express and U-haul trucks and horse trailers, buses, etc.  The sky is the limit in what type of vehicle you can live or camp out in.

No one really want to live or sleep in their cars, but many are making it work today. Many families sleep in their cars when they go camping — so why not live in it full-time?

Despite what you might think living in a car, van or a similar vehicle can be safer than living on the streets. Our ancestors used to live in caves, so why are we as a society looking down on anyone for sleeping in their cars — whether they are ‘homeless’ or just want the luxury of being mobile to travel around the country and save on gas?

Many with jobs and businesses do utilize their vehicles to work in, but a majority of people who sleep in cars, vans, RVs and other vehicles — LIVE OUT of their vehicles.

They spend their time during the day out of the vehicle engaging in activities, while returning to the vehicles at nighttime for sleep.  

Many Car and Van Dwellers believe RVers look down on them for sleeping in a car, van or similar vehicle. I am sure they look at Car and Van Dwellers as being ‘primitive’ because many don’t have running water, bathrooms, or toilets.

However, we are all the same — #OneCommunity of ‘Wanderers, Gypsies, and Nomads’. Again, this is a #Kind and #Brave community so let’s take care of each other.

If you live in a car, you can sleep in the front seat, passenger seat or back seat or remove the front passenger seat or back seats for more comfort. It all depends on the size of the person and which angle you will find most comfortable. 

Once you lay the driver or passenger seat back, for many this can be a comfortable position. You can remove the front passenger seat and put a board or plank down from Home Depot or Lowe’s — get an inflatable camping bag, pillow and sleeping bag and you should be quite comfortable sleeping in your car. You can also use an air mattress.

Or you can lay down the back seats or remove them totally and fix the area up like the front passenger seat with your legs extending in the trunk area. These two positions should allow you to be quite comfortable living in your car or a  bigger vehicle.

Why You Should Buy A ‘Toyota Prius’ To Live in 

Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com also recommends a ‘Toyota Prius’ as the type of car many should buy. There are Prius groups on facebook, especially a group for women Prius owners.
 
You can start any car-type group on facebook and hold events at meetup.com or join “Bob Wells Caravans” at www.Meetup.com/Caravans.
 
Many of these caravans are near towns — where you can still shop and/or use your phone so don’t think you will be out there in some isolated area. Caravans are a great way to meet others on the road – build relationships or even travel together.
You can get a ‘Toyota Prius’ and save $1000 a month on rent and do your work at McDonald’s, Starbucks, Libraries, Panera Bread, and other businesses with FREE wi-fi.
 
Some even park in front of libraries, Target, McDonald’s, etc. and stay in their cars and use their wi-fi for free. You may or may not need a ‘wi-fi extender’ for this, however, ‘the sky is the limit’ on how you can work on a ‘remote job’ or run a business from your car, van or a similar vehicle and be quite happy as you travel around the country and meet great friends and see some beautiful sites — or just survive as a ‘Car Dweller.’
 
Living in a Car vs. Living in A Van
 
Living in a car is no different than living in a van. Of course, living in a car will not give you as much space as living in a van, but you can be totally happy living in either of these. 
 
Reasons to travel by car versus a van or RV:
  • It’s quick.
  • Great mileage. 
  • Great mobility so you can get up and go.
  • Great for stealth camping. 
  • Most families already have a car so start with what you got. It’s more affordable than a Class B van, Class B plus (also called a ‘Class C’), Class A, Travel Trailer or Fifth Wheel.
  • You can get a used car or van for $2000 to $5000 on autotrader.com, facebook marketplace, eBay, craigslist or even cheaper from a personal seller.

If you only have a car and not a van, then set up your car and travel around the country and prepare to have fun. You can add tents to your car to extend your living area and space when out camping.

What you need to live in a car or van successfully:
  • Food
  • Bottled Water
  • Eating Utensils (Folks, Spoons, Bowls, Plates)
  • Paper Towels/Napkins
  • Wet Wipes
  • Toilet Paper
  • Trash Bags
  • Bed/Sleeping Bag (Inflatable Camping Mattress and/or Air Mattress)
  • Pillow
  • Knife/Swiss Army Knife
  • Flashlight
  • Mini Travel Umbrella
  • Sunglasses
  • Pee Bottle/Toilet Pot (Collapsible Toilet)
  • Small Fans (in the summertime)
  • First Aid Kit
  • Ice Chess/Cooler (Coleman Extreme Cooler – will keep ice for up to – maybe a week) or an Ice Chess that runs on a 9 or 12-volt battery. Many van dwellers have the Yeti coolers and there are iceless coolers by Igloo.).
  • Inverter/Generator, which you can charge while driving and run your phone, computer, iPad, blender, steamer, etc.
You can wash off with wipes, buy a pop-up shower tent, use Solar Showers or take showers at gyms such as 24-hour fitness, Planet Fitness, LA Fitness, YMCAs, etc. 
 
You can also take showers at CouchSurfing.com, truck stops, state and county parks, hotels, at friends and family member’ homes, etc. In places like Florida, they have showers on beaches along with potable water.
While in your car you can watch movies on Netflix.com, Amazon.com, and Hulu.com on your phone. To live in a van (minivan, SUV, camper van or some type of other larger vehicle than a car), you want to go ahead and purchase a good house battery, inverter and solar so you can work inside of the van on a computer, iPad, etc. or watch TV. There are also portable solar kits for those living in their cars.
  
Car and Van Dwellers – Sleeping or Camping in Tents
 
If you are sleeping in your car and/or van, you also should have a tent with you. Springbar.com has the best quality of tents that lasts a while. The tents are really sturdy and can hold up in high winds.
 
Genji Sports Instant Camping tents are a great quality ‘pop-up’ tent, which means you can put it up and take it down in a hurry.
 
Ozark Trail tents are another good tent, but it was made in China, which means it might blow away in high winds. Kodiak Canvas tents are another tent used by Car or Van Dwellers.
 
 

If you arrive in your car or van as a ‘campground host’ or when you just go camping, bring a tent along especially if you need to take a break from sleeping in a car or van. 

Also, know up-front that many campgrounds require those arriving in cars and vans to bring a tent along.  They require you to sleep in the tents or you can set up the tent ‘as a disguise’ — for safety purposes — and still sleep in your car or van.
 
Remember that most of these camps are empty during the week so this will be a great time to stay there — hassle-free. On weekends you can go to other places or do #StealthCamping in urban areas.
 
 
Some camping areas charge $5 to $25 a day for cars, vans, and RVs. Some have a limit of 14 days then you might have to go to another camp area, but can come back to that same spot in 14 to 30 to 45 days. And many of the camps are right next to each other.
 
If you are going camping in a car or van bring a head lamp and/or Luci Light (powered in the daytime by solar), fire starter and proper clothing. Try to bring more than one coat. 
 
For cooking when camping or when living in a car or van, you can also use these items:  
  • toaster oven
  • induction plate (could interfere with cardiac pacemakers) 
  • instant pot
  • air fryer
  • blender
  • steamer
Know the regulations and laws wherever you are. You can also bring chairs and tools along. You can tailgate off your truck or the back of your car. 
 
FREE Places to Park Cars or Vans While On the Road
 
If you need a place to park, you can go on Craigslist and put an ad in it and offer $100 a month (or less) to park in someone’s driveway or on their land.
 
If you do this, the goal is to show up after dark and leave before daylight. I am sure homeowners, especially the elderly, who have houses and land would love to make this ‘extra money’ every month and you will have a safe, ‘hassle-free’ place to park.
 
Make sure you google ‘FREE parking’ in the city you are in. Other FREE places to park your car, another larger vehicle or a van include:
  • Rest Areas
  • Truck Stops
  • Walmart (24 hours)
  • Kmart (24 hours)
  • Hospitals
  • Hotels
  • Motels
  • Bass Pro Shops (also own Cabela’s) allows Van Dwellers – maybe Car Dwellers.
  • Cracker Barrel allows Van Dwellers – maybe Car Dwellers.
  • Tribal Lands (You ask permission from a tribal council. And pay a permit fee)
  • Casinos also check out CasinoCamping.com
  • National Parks and Monuments
  • State, City or Community Parks (Look for signs that say 24 parking)
  • City, County or Regional and Private Campgrounds
  • BLM.gov Land (It’s everywhere but mostly on the west coast). Camp on BLM land with small or large groups of people to be safe, especially if you are a solo female traveler or join Bob Wells from CheapRVLiving.com Caravans at www.Meetup.com/Caravans). 
  • You can do “Driveway or Mooch Surfing” (also “Couch Surfing” — staying on someone’s couch) in a family’ member, friend or someone’s driveway. Cars and Van Dwellers can do this easier than larger RVs.
  • Residential Areas (Respect “No Parking Signs.” Do not park on private property. Somebody is always watching).
  • Apartment Complexes (There is usually street parking there too. Google or go to Craiglist and look for apartments for rent. Big apartment complexes ‘without gates’ are a great idea, especially for Car and Van Dwellers).
  • Community College parking lots (Check hours of Campus police. It’s usually 10:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m.).
  • Strip Malls or Shopping Malls that are opened 24 hours, but they might have security guards.
  • Car Dealerships (Go to the service area especially if they work on the type of car or van you drive)
  • HarvestHosts.com allows Van Dwellers and RVers (not Car Dwellers). These are wineries, farms, breweries, etc. Memberships are $50 a year. (Owner name is Joel). They only take up to 5 RVers or Van Dwellers a night so you need to make reservations. You need to buy wine, cheese, and other products, while you are there.
  • BoondockersWelcome.com allows Van Dwellers and RVers (not Car Dwellers). Also, check out Boondocking.org.
Popular Apps for Car and Van Dwellers
 
Again, a van will give you more space and you can set it up just like an RV. Most vans can also park anywhere an RV can park. They have ‘Class B Vans’ which is the same size as regular vans so vans are also considered RVs and Motorhomes.
 
To Find Campgrounds Use These Apps
 
Apps That Cost
 
  • US Public Lands (Worth the $2.99 cost).
  • Ultimate Public Campgrounds (Over 40,300 in U.S. & CA) (Cost $3.99).
  • OvernightRVParking.com (Subscription is $24.95).
  • AllTrails (To find hiking trails. Subscription is $29.99 a year).
Apps To Monitor Gas
 
You will save gas as long as you stay in one location so if you stay weekly or monthly, you will save gas.
 
Apps to help you monitor your gas include:
  • Gas Buddy
  • Fuelly
  • Gas Guru
  • Gas Cubby
  • GasPricesTriple.com

Weather Apps

  • Windy.com (gives you 3-hour updates, wind speed, wind directions, wind gust, and Hurricanes forecasts)
  • The Weather Channel
  • Weather
  • My Radar 
  • Weather Bug

It’s up to you whether you camp out or live in a compact car, a larger vehicle or a van. Remember to start with what you have. If that is a car then get in your car and get out here on the road and enjoy yourself and/or save your sanity. 

Read my article entitled “What You Need to Know Before Starting #VanLife.” Even though you live in a Car, Van, a similar vehicle or RV, you can truly still live “The Good Life” by getting out of your COMFORT ZONE and putting one foot in front of the other and say the words — “No more struggles, no more pain, no more headaches, no more heartaches. I am building a new life and I am doing it now.” Welcome aboard the #FreedomExpress!

Find out more great info on Car Camping and Car Living in these groups:

Share this info with the people you love and don’t forget to ‘Live, Love and Enjoy the Journey’ and be an active part of my NEW JOURNEY, new community, and blog at www.SimpleLifeRVing.com.
 

Cathy Harris is a New Earth Educator, Speaker, Author, GMO Educator, and Holistic Healer at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com and she offers seminars, workshops, and consultations on Health/Gardening, Business, and Spirituality. She is the author of 6 health books, 2 business books, and 20 other nonfiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. You can email Cathy at AskCathy@DearCathy.com or Cathy@CathyHarrisInternational.com and bring Cathy’s Mobile Learning Clubs (www.MobileLearningClubs.com) and Cathy’s Caravan (www.CathysCaravan.com) to your city.

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My Happiness Project, #ChasingHappiness

 
My Happiness Box
 

My Happiness Project #ChasingHappiness 
 
June 16, 2019
 
by Cathy Harris, DearCathy.com
 
Don’t be afraid to #ChaseHappiness. That is the true meaning of life. Many, like myself, just want to live an #Adventurous and #Mobile
lifestyle and there’s nothing wrong with 
#ChasingHappiness.
 
Everyone knows exactly what makes them happy so the goal is not to settle for a life that you feel will take your inner soul. 
 
Many are ‘taking the bull by the horns’ or doing something difficult in a brave and determined way — and creating a life that they can truly love. 
 
For the rest of their lives and on their deathbeds, they will have a brain bank ‘full of memories’ with stories to share with the people they truly love #WhatALife, #ChasingHappiness.
 
It’s no wonder this is the year I decided to go Full-Time RVing. I started off the New Year reading a book entitled “The Happiness Project.”
 
The book suggested I do my own “Happiness Project” so I wanted to REPOST my happiness project steps I am taking throughout the year to bring even more happiness into my life, especially as I embark on my new adventures as a Full-Time RVer (or #VanDweller).
 
Just some of the steps that I put together in “My Happiness Project” include: 
 

Listen to Music More

Music stimulates the part of your brain that causes happiness. Listening to music can create peak emotions, which increase the amount of dopamine, a specific neurotransmitter that is produced in the brain and helps control the brain’s reward and pleasure centers.       

Meditation

I am a  big believer in ‘Meditation’. It makes your mind sharper and alert along with reducing stress and enhancing positive energy.

Some schools are even using meditation to help kids deal with stressful situations. You can find great meditation music on youtube.com or download a Meditation App on your phone or computer.
 
You can meditate sitting up or lying down. You can meditate from the comfort of your own home for 15 to 30 minutes every day or find a meetup.com group or another meditation group in your community.                                                                                              
Do Yoga
 
Yoga, like  Meditation, is extremely good for the brain. They both are actually two of the best exercises for the human brain.
 
If you have never done yoga before then start now. Not only will it increase your flexibility, but it will prevent middle-age spread. This is an exercise the entire family can do.
 
You can do yoga from the comfort of your home by downloading a  Yoga App on your phone or computer or watch it on youtube.com.     
 

Engage in ‘Laughter Yoga’

Yoga is an exercise that is extremely good for the brain. It’s true that laughter will bring in even more laughter.

In my last city, I learned about ‘laughter yoga.’ These laughter yoga groups are located on meetup.com or form these laughter yoga groups your own self.

Replace Negative Thoughts with Good Thoughts

To be happy you have to think positive thoughts. This will take some practice, but it can be done. It helps when you surround yourself with positive people and positive things (memories).

Every time you get a negative thought in your mind, replace it right away with a positive thought. This is why it’s important to have great information in your brain bank. 

Do Hypnosis

I had a hypnosis session for ‘sleep issues’ in my last city and it worked.

A professional told me how to do an exercise when I had trouble falling asleep. Sleep is extremely important so hypnosis for bringing more happiness into your life probably could work.

Keep a Food Diary Journal

Most people don’t have any idea what they eat during the day, so therefore, keep a food diary. Certain foods can actually make you sad.

I only eat blood-type foods, which not only make me happy but give me energy as well. There are Vegan, Vegetarian, Blood Type, Gluten-Free, Paleo, Keto, and other diets.

The problem is most folks today eat the Standard American Diet (also called “SAD”) and that should tell you something.

The diet is full of processed foods with no nutritional value and can actually cause you to be sad and depressed.      

Eat At Home

When you eat out, you have no idea what ingredients are in your foods, which can cause an allergic reaction or these foods can make you sad.     

Sing In the Morning

Mornings set the tone for the entire day so sing in the morning and be happy. Most people are more productive from 8:00-12:00 p.m., so sing and just be happy.     

Stop Watching TV

Television is negative today and it does nothing but force you — just like Hollywood – to think negatively about your life. It does nothing but ‘rob your soul’ of fun and happiness. 

Try especially to avoid turning it on in the mornings — your most productive time of the day. Instead, listen to laughter yoga, or motivational speakers on Youtube.

No one pays for cable anymore. You can easily rent movies on Netflix.com, Amazon.com, Hulu.com, etc. You can receive all your news from independent media by email so subscribe to independent media websites and turn off the TV.  

Exercise

Exercising releases ‘feel-good’ endorphins. It is a great way to change your mood so make sure you exercise several days a week or find a hobby that is physical, such as walking, hiking, swimming, tennis, etc.                   

Get More Sleep

You should get at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep every night. Children ages 18 or younger, need 9 or 10 hours of sleep.

Most people don’t know it but if you don’t get enough sleep, you won’t just be in a bad mood all day, but you can cause issues in your marriage and family, and make you crave bad foods. 

So invest in a good mattress and pillow. The goal is to go to bed at the same time every night and get up at the same time every day — even on weekends.       

Give Up Alcohol

Try to take #BabySteps and give up alcohol. Not only does alcohol make you sleepy, but it can make you SAD. It has a negative effect on the brain.   

Hang Out With Enthusiastic Friends

Make time for friends — but stop gossiping. Having strong social bonds is a key to happiness. People get a mood boost from contact with others.

However, select good people to be in your circle. No one wants to be around negative, ‘doom and gloom’ people, so hang out with others that are enthusiastic about life.

As I travel around the country, I make it a point to visit friends. Many are now elderly so I guess you can say I do welfare checks on my friends especially the ones that are still enthusiastic about life.     

Watch What You Say To People – #WordsMatter

Many people are on edge today so watch what you are saying to people. Even when you make posts on social media, just watch what you are saying to people. Try to choose nice and uplifting words.    

Don’t Focus on a Bad Mood

Try not to focus on a bad mood – it will pass. Go for a walk or engage in an activity. Men are better at this than women. Women continue to focus on a bad mood so this might take some practice for women.           

Use Your Good Dishes

Use your good dishes. Why set aside these things you might never get to use, therefore, use your good dishes.                                       

Clean Up Clutter

I started my career off as a secretary, so for me to be able to write every day and be productive, I need a clutter-free environment.

So clean up your space, and place, and throw stuff out especially clothes that you no longer wear. If you have things in your closet that you know you are not going to wear — get rid of them. If you have clothing with sentimental value, keep it somewhere else in your house.             

Tackle A Long-Delayed Chore

 Once you complete a chore that you have been putting off, it will bring more happiness.                         

Act The Way You Want To Feel

Smile and act happy and somehow you will get there. Children smile hundreds of times a day, however, adults only smile 4 to 17 times a day – so smile more.            

Do New Things

People who do new things are apt to be happier than people who continue to do the same things day in and out.

This is why I travel to new cities and meet new people. It brings so much happiness into my life.         

Do Fun Things

Books are fun for me. Selecting them and reading non-fiction books are so much fun, especially ‘self-help’ books.

Also, I love going to meetup.com meetings and meeting new people. I also enjoy traveling, photography, surfing the internet, crocheting, sewing, dancing, watching movies, and going to the gym.  

Be More Generous

Do things like helping others think big. Give other people great suggestions. Doing good deeds brings happiness and remember the best way to make others happy is to be happy yourself.                                                                 

Bring People Together

Introduce people to other people. Set up a high school reunion or another event. Hold events at your home or hold a meetup.com meeting in your community.                           

Do What You Love

If you are in a  job that you no longer enjoy, get another one — even in another city, go back to school or start a business.  Do what you love and allow your kids to do what they love – youth business ownership.      

Downsize Your Living Arrangements

At 62 I was seriously thinking about obtaining a “Tiny Home” to live in until I came up with the idea of Full-Time RVing. I am currently living in an Efficiency/Studio apartment so downsizing my living arrangements has made me much happier.

Because I am saving money from downsizing, I now have more funds to eat better foods and travel, which is more important to me than buying ‘shiny things’ – so live a #MinimalistLifestyle. 

Visit Libraries

Many people today don’t even step into libraries anymore. Libraries are a great place to find interesting information and people. As I travel around the country, I always visit as many libraries as I can.

Female University Student Sitting on a Library Floor Reading a Book

Most have a bulletin board to see local events or find out what events are being held in the libraries. I always ask if I can hold my own events in these facilities (seminars and workshops).

I also check out library books and read magazines or just bring my laptop and work on my other projects there.    

Start A Blog

You can start a free blog at www.Blogger.com or www.WordPress.com. Find some way to put down your thoughts that can turn into a book project.

A blog or journaling will work. Blog about what you are passionate about. Try to blog every day or at least every other day. 

Happy People Make Good Marriage Mates

Men are not attracted to women who are not happy. Happy people find it easier to get married and stay married.

Get An Outdoor and Indoor Game

Couples should have indoor and outdoor games to keep interest in their relationship.  

Hug Your Spouse More

It’s important to practice hugging more especially your spouse, mate, significant other, or partner, and especially your children.

It will make a big difference in how you view the world and how it views you.       

Don’t Ignore Your Spouse

Many people end up less considerate of their mates. Have date nights with your spouse and spend quality time together.

Show each other love and put each other first. Be nice to each other and treat your mate better than you treat others.          

Don’t Dump Minor Issues On Your Mate

Couples do pick up on the mood of their spouses, so, therefore, it’s important not to dump your minor issues on your spouse.

Don’t allow nagging and petty issues to ruin your relationship. Be happy, stop complaining, and blaming your spouse, mate, significant other, or partner for petty issues.     

Read Books on Happy Relationships

There are tons of great reading material out there for people in relationships. Men and women approach relationships, especially intimacy differently because “Men Are From Mars and Women Are from Venus.” 

Read the book “Love After 50” so you can keep an active sex life as you age.    

Children Bring Happiness

Children do bring more happiness to relationships. You might have ups and downs when you have children, but overall, people are happier with children.

If you can’t have children today because of GMOs, contact surrogacy programs, do IVF, or adopt.       

Keep Happy Memories Alive

Keep happy memories around you because they will make you happy. I keep pictures of myself and my children close to my work area. My photo albums are not far away.

Send photos to family members, but be careful posting pictures online especially pictures of your children with all the pedophiles collecting these pictures today.

I also kept all my daughter’s memorabilia from their schools and presented it to them when they were grown.  

Take Time for Family Projects

Sometimes the happiness comes from planning a family home project. I made sure my family had cakes, balloons, and cards for their birthdays.

I even took pictures for 18 years of both my daughter’s birthdays.

Family projects excited me especially when I knew everyone would get a kick out of the work I put in. 

Go Off the Beaten Path

Get your creative juices going by doing different things. Everyone has skills and talents which are of value to others so do things that excite you.

Learn to cook, sew, or shoot a gun. Create your own meetup.com group. 

Take Time to Be Silly

Let your silly side shine through. Most people don’t know that I have a very ‘comedic side’ that I used to have in school growing up.

As I get older and as life gets easier as a Senior, it is coming back to me.  

Feel Right

Try to feel right by living the life you know you are supposed to be living. Don’t think you will be happier in the future than you are in the present.      

Choose Joy and Happiness

You have to wake up and choose to be happy. I do this when I spring out of bed every day.

The first thing I do is juice green foods which release ‘feel-good’ serotonin in my brain, which helps me feel good. 

Then I go and work out, which releases ‘feel-good’ endorphins in my brain. So get a ‘feel-good’ routine for you and your family.  

Being happy can help you:
  • Be more productive.
  • Makes you more helpful.
  • Makes you more likable.
  • Makes you friendlier.
  • Makes you a better leader.
  • Makes you physically attractive.
What I did after listening to the audiobook “The Happiness Project” was to listen to it again for the second time.
 
Then I recommended it to my two daughters and other people that I care deeply about. 
 
I also started a happiness box, which was recommended by the author. In this box, I place items that automatically make me happy when I see them. 
 
Practice the steps in this article and share them with the people you care deeply about. Make this the year you stop being selfish and start sharing great information with the ones you love.
 
Love yourself and become even happier this year. You deserve it! Good luck!!!
 
Also read:
 

Cathy Harris is a New Earth Educator, Speaker, Author, GMO Educator, and Holistic Healer at www.CathyHarrisInternational.com and she offers seminars, workshops, and consultations on Health/Gardening, Business, and Spirituality. She is the author of 6 health books, 2 business books, and 20 other nonfiction books at www.AngelsPress.com. You can email Cathy at AskCathy@DearCathy.com or Cathy@CathyHarrisInternational.com and bring Cathy’s Mobile Learning Clubs (www.MobileLearningClubs.com) and Cathy’s Caravan (www.CathysCaravan.com) to your city.