Tag Van Life

After my mini van was totaled, finding the right replacement took some time (see my post: The Journey From Minivan to Ford Transit Van). Eventually, I settled on a Ford Transit, which became the canvas for my van life adventures. With a tight timeline before heading to Arizona for a family rafting trip down the Colorado River, I had to quickly prepare the van for living on the road. The goal was functionality over luxury.

Bed-Couch Setup:

The centerpiece of my van conversion was the bed-couch hybrid. I repurposed an old futon to create a versatile seating and sleeping area. This setup allowed me to fold the futon up into a couch during the day, providing a comfortable space to relax and socialize. At night, it unfolded into a bed, ensuring a restful sleep under the stars or in urban settings.

Utilizing Existing Features:

The Ford Transit, originally a Home Depot delivery van, came equipped with metal strapping points along the interior walls. Instead of bolting new fixtures, I took advantage of these existing features to secure my bed frame, shelf, and other components. This approach not only saved time but also ensured flexibility for future modifications without the need for major structural changes.

Removing the Divider Door:

To improve accessibility and airflow within the van, I replaced the heavy door separating the back and front cabs with a simple curtain. This modification not only opened up the space but also eliminated the hassle of dealing with a swinging door. It made the interior feel more spacious and adaptable to different living conditions on the road.

Kitchen Setup:

Creating a functional kitchen area was essential for preparing meals and staying self-sufficient. I built a sturdy shelf using plywood to support my portable Coleman stove. This setup provided a stable platform for cooking, whether I was parked lakeside or in the midst of desert terrain. Along with the stove, I installed a basic sink with a drain, facilitating daily tasks such as washing dishes and brushing teeth. With gallons of stored water, I had the essentials covered without needing a complex plumbing system.

Additional Upgrades:

Beyond the essentials, I invested in a Jackery Battery unit to power lights and a new electric cooler, upgrading from a smaller model used in my previous van. I hated having to constantly replace ice and deal with ‘floating’ food. This setup ensured I had reliable electricity for extended trips, enhancing comfort and convenience on the road.

Conclusion:

My journey to outfit my Ford Transit for van life was a blend of practicality and creativity. From the DIY bed-couch setup to optimizing the kitchen and electrical systems, each modification was aimed at enhancing comfort and functionality.

Follow along for more updates on my van life adventures and converting my mobile oasis on wheels. Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or seeking inspiration for minimalist living, there’s always something new to discover in the world of van life.

It’s hard to believe it’s already been three months since I fully embraced van life. Reflecting on this milestone, I can confidently say: so far, so good. Transitioning from a part-time van lifestyle to living on the road full-time has been an adventure filled with both challenges and rewards.

Learning the Ropes

The shift to full-time van living has brought a new set of challenges. One of the biggest adjustments has been managing my power supply. Ensuring my batteries stay charged has become a crucial part of my daily routine. Another key aspect is figuring out where I’ll be parking each night, which requires a bit of planning and flexibility. Despite these challenges, the sense of freedom and the lack of unnecessary possessions make it all worthwhile.

Feeling Free and Unencumbered

Living in my van has given me a newfound sense of freedom. Without the burden of excess stuff, I feel more connected to my journey and the places I visit. The simplicity of this lifestyle has had a positive impact on my mental state, allowing me to focus on the present and enjoy the little moments. I’m also finding more time for personal enrichment; I’m reading more books and playing my guitar more often.

Balancing Work and Play

One of the biggest surprises has been how well I’ve been able to integrate work into my days without feeling overwhelmed. The flexibility of van life allows me to balance work and leisure effectively, ensuring I remain productive while also taking time to enjoy my surroundings and hobbies.

Adventures and Connections

In the past three months, I’ve had the chance to embark on some incredible adventures. I drove to a wedding in Austin, which was a beautiful and memorable experience. Visiting family in North Carolina, New Hampshire, and Florida has been wonderful, offering a comforting sense of home on the road. I also reconnected with friends I hadn’t seen in a long time in St. Louis and Houston, which was incredibly heartwarming.

Moving Forward

As I continue this journey, I’m excited to see where the road will take me next. There’s still so much to learn and experience in this lifestyle. I look forward to sharing more stories and insights as I navigate the ups and downs of van life.

Van life has been a dream of mine, and I started this adventure with a humble minivan back in 2020. Traveling the US, exploring new places, and living a life of freedom on the road was exhilarating. However, life threw a curveball when my trusty minivan was totaled in New Orleans. This unexpected event turned out to be a blessing in disguise. No one was injured, insurance actually paid me more than I paid for the van, I got to spend time with friends and it pushed me to upgrade my home on wheels.

The Search for the Perfect Van

Finding a new vehicle during the COVID-19 pandemic was no small feat. With supply low and demand high, the search felt like a scavenger hunt. I made countless phone calls and monitored multiple websites, determined to find my next mobile home. After many sleepless nights and persistent efforts, I finally found a Ford Transit about an hour and a half away. With limited options available, I immediately asked them to hold it while I arranged a ride to see it.

A New Beginning With the Ford Transit

The moment I saw the Ford Transit, I knew it was perfect. Previously used as a Home Depot delivery van, it already had walls and a floor installed, making the transition smoother. I wasted no time and bought the van, excited for the new possibilities it presented.

Starting From Scratch: The Empty Van

Here’s a glimpse of the van early on, right after I bought it. It was a blank canvas, waiting for my touch to transform it into a cozy and functional living space.

The empty space felt full of potential, and I couldn’t wait to start building it out. The pre-installed walls and floor were a great head start, but there was still a lot of work to be done to make it truly feel like home.

The Build Begins

In upcoming posts, I’ll share some of building out of the van, including the challenges and triumphs along the way. While my van might not be stylish—it’s built with plywood and 2x1s—it’s perfect for me and my solo travels. It’s definitely comfortable and feels like home. Stay tuned to see how this empty van evolves into my cozy and functional living space.

Hey there, fellow wanderers! It’s been quite the whirlwind since bidding adieu to my apartment and embracing the nomadic lifestyle full time. Join me as I embark on the next chapter of this unpredictable journey.

First stop: Austin, TX, and back for a beautiful family wedding, where I had the joy of celebrating a wonderful event. Along the way, I reconnected with customers and cherished friends that I hadn’t seen in far too long! From heartfelt conversations to shared laughter, every moment was a testament to the power of human connection.

Next up, I found myself in Pottsville, PA, where I had the honor of attending a special event dedicating a historic plaque to a beloved extended family member, Allan Jaffe. It was a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving our roots and honoring our heritage. Allan Jaffe, born in Pottsville, PA, was a renowned figure in the music world as the co-founder and manager of the Preservation Hall Jazz Band in New Orleans. Despite leaving Pottsville at a young age, Jaffe maintained a deep connection to his hometown. His contributions to jazz music preservation and his enduring legacy continue to inspire musicians worldwide. (See news article here)

But the adventure doesn’t stop there! With a wedding on the horizon in NJ, I’m eagerly anticipating another opportunity to celebrate love and togetherness with dear friends and family.

As summer beckons, I’ll be making my way back to New England, where I plan to soak in the beauty of the region and reconnect with the simple joys of life. From birthday celebrations with friends to live music events and everything in between, I’m looking forward to making up for lost time and creating new memories along the way after being gone for an entire year.

Come fall, you’ll find me nestled among the vibrant foliage of New Hampshire and Vermont, where I’ll be savoring the crisp autumn air and immersing myself in the stunning natural landscapes.

And as the holiday season approaches, I’ll be making a pit stop in sunny Florida to share Thanksgiving with my mom before setting my sights on the vast expanse of the desert in Arizona. There, amidst the serene beauty of the desert landscape, I’ll take a moment to pause, reflect, and recharge before the next adventure begins.

Click to take a look at some designs I’ve created for Arizona souvenirs on Etsy

So, here’s to embracing the unknown, cherishing the present moment, and savoring every step of this incredible journey called life. Until next time, fellow travelers! 🌟 #EmbraceTheJourney #NomadicAdventures #TravelsWithMartin

After returning from a transformative year-long journey on the road, I made a decision that felt both daunting and liberating: I let go of my apartment. This change wasn’t just about shedding material possessions; it marked a profound shift in my perspective and priorities. The decision to part ways with my apartment was deeply influenced by the experiences I had during my travels. Losing my dad and my job of over a decade served as catalysts for introspection and reevaluation. In the face of loss and uncertainty, the open road became my sanctuary, offering solace and a sense of clarity amidst life’s turbulence. Upon my return, I confronted the reality of my belongings, realizing that much of what filled my apartment held little significance in the grand scheme of things. Over the course of three months, I embarked on a journey of decluttering and simplification, selling, giving away, recycling, or discarding items that no longer resonated with me.

The process was both cathartic and challenging, as I navigated through layers of memories and attachments tied to material possessions. Each item I released felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders, creating space for new experiences and opportunities to unfold.

Amidst the practicality of decluttering, the process was unexpectedly emotional. Delving into boxes that had traversed attics throughout my life, I unearthed treasures long forgotten. Each item carried memories of bygone eras, from newspaper clippings chronicling high school triumphs to heartfelt letters penned by friends and family. Sorting through these relics, I was reminded of the passage of time and the cherished moments that had shaped my journey. It was a poignant reminder of the value of the past and the importance of embracing new beginnings with an open heart.

As I bid farewell to my apartment, I embraced the principles of minimalism, finding freedom in owning less and experiencing more. The journey taught me that true richness lies not in the abundance of possessions, but in the richness of experiences and connections forged along the way. This newfound sense of lightness and liberation serves as a testament to the transformative power of letting go and embracing the unknown.

I thought it was time for another bizarre post so once more, I turned to chat GPT to select a genre, requesting something that’s both specific and contains at least four words. The choice that emerged was “Victorian Gothic Mystery Thriller” I requested that my post, “What is Van Life” be rewritten in that genre. Here is how chat GPT defines that genre and how the post was rewritten….

I’ve chosen the genre “Victorian Gothic Mystery Thriller” for the post. It’s a combination of Victorian-era literature, gothic elements, mystery, and thriller, providing a dark and suspenseful atmosphere.

– chatGPT

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

In the shadowy recesses of existence, “van life” takes on a far more enigmatic guise. It’s a lifestyle where solitary wanderers or mysterious couples, driven by an insatiable wanderlust, choose to reside and traverse the realm within converted vans and camper vehicles. They embark on protracted sojourns, uncovering the essence of a simpler, yet far more mobile and exhilarating way of life. The very term “van life,” shrouded in an enigmatic aura, once alluded to an existence confined to the walls of a van, only to evolve and encompass a realm teeming with diverse vehicular domiciles – from the sleek motorhomes of the aristocracy to the humble campervans of the commoner. The world of these rolling abodes, like something torn from the pages of a Victorian Gothic novel, embodies a curious blend of voyage, austerity, and an insatiable thirst for intrigue.

Seven Mysterious Van Life Traits:

1. Dwelling in the Shadowed Confines of a Van: An essential aspect of this enigmatic lifestyle, where vans are transformed into mobile sanctuaries. These mobile abodes are complete with obscure sleeping chambers, cryptic cooking quarters, and concealed storage spaces. The level of customization, from minimalist concealments to opulent and sumptuously furnished interiors, hints at the enigmatic desires of the road-worn traveler.
2. Endless Travel, Forever on the Move: Those drawn to the gothic realm of van life are often committed to ceaseless wanderings. They traverse the sinister landscapes of obscure regions, haunted cities, and ghastly natural landscapes. The mobility of their vans allows them to switch locations with an eerie fluidity, navigating through new realms and unlocking secrets along the way.
3. The Tenets of Minimalism: In this gothic narrative, van life compels its disciples toward a life of stark simplicity. Each van lifer must weigh every possession meticulously, selecting and prioritizing the essentials, forsaking the trappings of the material world in favor of immersive experiences that send shivers down one’s spine.
4. Self-Reliance, the Sinister Craft: Van lifers must embrace the craft of self-sufficiency. They labor diligently, conjuring sustenance and sustenance in the dimly lit confines of their mobile lairs. Cooking incantations, maintaining their mysterious vehicles, identifying eerie locations for parking or camping, and managing resources like water and electricity become their daily rituals.
5. Whispers of Nature’s Embrace: Living in the van life shadows binds one to the heart of nature. Like characters in a gothic tale, van lifers seek out remote, spectral locations to set up camp, hike in eerie woods, and partake in peculiar outdoor activities, immersing themselves in a world fraught with the unknown.
6. An Alternative Reality: In this narrative, van life is not merely a lifestyle; it’s a rebellion against the conventional norms of homeownership and the relentless 9-to-5 toil. It promises freedom, boundless flexibility, and emancipation from the oppressive grind of modern life.
7. Community Beneath the Moonless Sky: A peculiar and clandestine online community gathers beneath the digital moonless sky. Van lifers share their enigmatic experiences, whispering tales of their shadowy journeys, and revealing secrets of their ghostly adventures through cryptic blogs, eldritch social media, and eerie YouTube channels. This online congregation has lent a spectral camaraderie to those navigating the sinister road.

So, dear reader, what is van life? It is an enigma of our times, a story of vanishing into the night. It is a life that meanders between the corporeal and the ethereal. Each soul embarking on this journey seeks something different – whether fleeting adventure, financial emancipation, or a desire to simplify existence. It remains a dark, mysterious, and thrilling escapade.

Curious about how my own van life journey began? I’ve shared the details in another post that takes you through my personal transition into this unique lifestyle. If you’re interested in the backstory and want to learn more about how I got started, be sure to check out ‘How I Came to Find Van Life‘ for the full scoop.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

As I continued my van journey towards the Arctic circle, I headed north along the picturesque shores of Lake Michigan. The day was rather gloomy, with cold winds and rain, but I was excited to explore two remarkable stops along the way: North Beach and Wind Point Lighthouse.

North Beach: Where Wild Beauty Meets Rugged Solitude

North Beach, in Racine, WI, despite the relentless wind, greeted me with a sense of wild beauty. The waves crashing against the shore created a mesmerizing symphony. As I walked along the beach, I couldn’t help but be in awe of the rugged, unspoiled landscape that surrounded me. It was one of those days when you realize how incredible it is to be exactly where you are. And on a side note, there were very few people out on the beach that day, which made the experience even more special. I appreciate the solitude and being able to enjoy places without the crowds.

Wind Point Lighthouse: A Towering Beauty by Lake Michigan

From Racine Beach, I ventured to Wind Point Lighthousee, a historic treasure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its enduring presence is a testament to its rich maritime history. This lighthouse is not only iconic but also believed to be one of the oldest and tallest lighthouses still operational on the Great Lakes. While I couldn’t explore its interiors that day, its external grandeur was awe-inspiring, especially against the backdrop of the gray, overcast sky

Unforgettable Journey

This was one of those days where I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for all of it. The fact that I was right there, at these remarkable places, experiencing the raw beauty of Lake Michigan and the rich history that resides in its lighthouses. Despite the cold and blustery weather, there was a profound connection to these places, and it’s moments like these that make every part of my van life journey unforgettable.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

Welcome back to the next chapter of my ongoing road trip adventure! I left behind the bustling cityscape of Chicago and set my sights northward along the winding shores of Lake Michigan, venturing into the charming city of Kenosha, Wisconsin. My stop in Kenosha turned out to be a delightful surprise, filled with music, good food, and pleasant weather.

Upon arriving in Kenosha, I immediately felt a sense of warmth and appeal that the city exudes. The weather was on my side, and I couldn’t have asked for a more perfect evening.

Grooving to the Beats: A Night at 58 Below

Sway to the Rhythms of Jazz at Sazzy B

Keen to continue the musical theme of the night, I made my way to Sazzy B, a local establishment known for its jazz performances. The soothing sounds of jazz filled the air as I entered, and I soon found myself engaged in lively conversations with fellow patrons at the bar. The combination of live jazz and the warm camaraderie of those around me made for a perfect ending to my evening in Kenosha.

Classic Diner Delights: Breakfast at Franks Diner

A Cheesy Adventure: Exploring the Mars Cheese Castle

Before saying farewell to Kenosha, I couldn’t resist indulging in a quintessential Wisconsin experience – a visit to the Mars Cheese Castle. And don’t worry, it’s not a castle made of cheese, though that would be interesting, wouldn’t it? This unique roadside attraction is a haven for cheese enthusiasts, boasting an impressive selection of dairy delights. I couldn’t resist the temptation to explore its offerings and left with two varieties of sharp cheddar, one aged for a year and the other aged for a whopping 12 years. The quest to discern the nuances of flavor in these aged cheddars added a delightful element of culinary curiosity to my journey.

With Kenosha in my rearview mirror, I continued my northward trek along the western shore of Lake Michigan. As I left the city behind, I couldn’t help but anticipate the adventures that lay ahead, making the road trip to the Arctic Circle all the more exciting. Stay tuned for more tales from the van life journey as I explore new places, flavors, and melodies along the way.

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58 Below 504 58th St Kenosha, WI 53140	Sazzy B 5623 6th Ave Kenosha, WI 53140
Franks Diner 508 58th St Kenosha, WI 53140	Mars Cheese Castle 2800 W Frontage Rd Kenosha, WI 53144

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

I thought it was time for another bizarre post so once more, I turned to GPT chat to select a genre, requesting something that’s both specific and contains at least three words. The choice that emerged was “Underwater Whimsical Adventure.” I requested that my post, “Preparing for Full-Time Van Life: The Mail Dilemma” be rewritten in that genre. Here is that rewritten post….

“Whimsical Underwater Adventure” captured my fascination because it’s a realm of endless creativity, where the mysteries of the deep sea meet the magic of storytelling.

– GPTchat

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Navigating the Currents of Mail Handling in Van Life:

1. Anchoring to a Permanent Sea Cavern
   In this whimsical underwater realm of van life, I’ve learned that maintaining a steady, permanent address is akin to securing my treasure chest. To navigate the treacherous legal and official waters, such as vehicle registration and tax documentation, I’ll entrust a friend or family member’s address to provide a stable point of reference in the vast sea.
2. Riding the Tidal Wave of Mail Forwarding Sorcery
   To ride the currents and ensure my messages in bottles (read: mail and packages) reach me as I journey through the depths, I plan to harness the magic of mail forwarding. Reputable merfolk of the delivery world, such as UPS, FedEx, and private mailbox providers, offer enchanting services. They receive my mail, cast spells for its digital scanning and forwarding, and send it on its way to different underwater cities, all while I continue to swim free.
3. The Magic of General Delivery at Coral Post Offices
   In those moments when I find a hidden grotto to rest my fins for a while, the mystical “General Delivery” service at local post offices becomes my trusted ally. It’s as simple as etching my name onto the message scroll and marking the location of a friendly coral post office for retrieval, ideal for my stationary underwater explorations.
4. Seeking Guidance from Benevolent Oceanic Allies
   To keep my connection to the surface world, I’ve reached out to benevolent allies from the surface—friends and family willing to assist. We’ve arranged for them to send seaworthy couriers with packages of wisdom to my underwater domain or designated meeting spots for an exchange of scrolls.
5. Diving Deep into Work or Volunteer Agreements
   During my quest, I’ve unearthed the mystical opportunities of workamping and volunteering at underwater realms like campgrounds, RV parks, and hidden national parks. Some of these realms offer services to handle mail in exchange for a safe harbor to park my van and receive messages. It’s a unique way to support my underwater adventures.
6. Harboring in Campgrounds and RV Parks with Mail Grottos
   Certain campgrounds and RV parks provide sanctuaries with mail-holding caverns for their underwater residents. I can chart my course to these magical places, where my mail shall rest safely until my arrival.
7. Local Businesses as Mail Shells and Caves
   During my aquatic explorations, I can enlist the help of local businesses like enchanted cafes, libraries, or mystical coworking spaces. For a small treasure, they may agree to accept my mail on my behalf, a practical solution for messages occasionally washed ashore.
8. A Digital Approach to Mail Scrolls
   To reduce my reliance on tangible messages in bottles, I plan to embrace the art of digital mail spells. Many institutions and companies offer parchment-free billing and digital means of communication. Setting up enchanting online payment and notification spells will keep me organized and lessen my dependence on paper scrolls.

Intriguing Choices on the Horizon: A Mail Dilemma Looms

As I prepare for the full-time underwater odyssey of van life, the mystic conundrum of mail delivery looms like the legendary kraken. By weaving the right combination of these watery methods, I will remain connected to the surface world while indulging in the freedom and enchantment of life below the waves. Ensuring my address remains current with relevant institutions will be the anchor that prevents any legal or administrative undertow during this incredible aquatic van life journey.

(Disclaimer: This page may contain affiliate links. When you make a purchase or take an action through these links, I may earn a commission. This helps support my van life blog and my journey.)

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Options for Getting Mail While Living the Van Life:

1. Establishing a Permanent Address
   I understand that even in my nomadic lifestyle, having a stable, permanent address is crucial for legal and official purposes. Whether it’s for vehicle registration, tax documents, or receiving essential paperwork, a trusted friend or family member’s address will provide the stability I need.
2. Leveraging Mail Forwarding Services
   To ensure I receive my mail and packages while on the move, I’ll explore mail forwarding services offered by reputable companies like UPS, FedEx, and private mailbox providers. These services not only receive my mail but also forward it to various locations as I travel. The added convenience of digital mail scanning and forwarding allows me to access my mail online.
3. Embracing General Delivery at Local Post Offices
   During times when I’m stationed in one place for an extended period, I can rely on the “General Delivery” service at local post offices. It’s as simple as addressing the mail to my name and specifying the post office location for pick-up, making it an ideal choice for my stationary travel plans.
4. Trusting Friends and Family
   To stay connected and receive mail and packages, I’m coordinating with friends and family members who are willing to assist me. We can arrange for them to forward mail to me periodically or designate meetup points for mail exchange.
5. Exploring Work or Volunteer Opportunities
   I’ve discovered the possibility of workamping and volunteering at campgrounds, RV parks, and national parks. Some of these places offer mail handling duties in exchange for a spot to park my van and receive mail. It’s a unique way to support my adventurous lifestyle.
6. Campgrounds and RV Parks with Mail Holding Services
   Some campgrounds and RV parks provide mail holding services for their residents. I can plan to stay at these locations and have my mail safely held until I arrive.
7. Local Businesses as Mail Drop Locations
   Whenever I explore new areas, I can inquire with local businesses like cafes, libraries, or coworking spaces if they’d accept mail on my behalf for a small fee. This practical solution will come in handy for occasional deliveries.
8. Going Digital with My Mail
   To reduce my reliance on physical mail, I intend to embrace digital mail services. Many companies and institutions offer paperless billing and digital communication options. Setting up online bill payments and notifications will help me stay organized and minimize the need for paper mail.

Mail Decision Will Have To Be Made.

As I prepare for full-time van life, the challenge of receiving mail on the road is a significant decision. By choosing the right combination of these methods, I can ensure that I stay connected to the world while embracing the freedom and adventure of life on the road. Keeping my address updated with all relevant institutions will be key to avoiding legal or administrative issues during this incredible van life journey.