WITH the cost of living crisis, there has been a rise in alternative lifestyles around the world.
One Australian shared how she manages to save money while living out of her converted van.
In her viral video, TikTok user Cass (@cassadvantures) broke her van-specific expenses as well as sharing some of the negatives of life on the road.
Cass explained that she worked in traffic control, racking up countless hours each week in order to save up for her adventure.
She revealed that she was inspired to “explore my own back yard” when the Covid lockdown was first implemented.
After saving up, Cass purchased a van and paid a company to convert it into a home on wheels.
Once she hit the road, she allocated herself a budget of £260 each week.
However, she pointed out that the number often fluctuates depending on her expenses each week.
She gave the example of having to pay for repairs when getting her van re-registered.
“I had to get a car service, change all my tires, brake pads, there was a lot that needed to be done,” Cass explained.
She added that other weeks her expenses would be lower and she might spend as little as £155.
“My biggest expense is probably fuel, which I expected,” she told her followers.
Cass explained that she saves money by avoiding expensive food shops and fast food restaurants.
She also revealed some of the unexpected downsides to living in a converted van.
Keeping van clean, being productive in bad weather, and trying to live a minimalist lifestyle were among her top struggles.
She also complained about the “super hot stuffy nights” sleeping in her van.
Cass described the constant on-the-go lifestyle as “draining” and said she sometimes feels pressure to constantly enjoy the places where she parks up rather than simply relaxing.
The rise of van life began during the pandemic in 2020. With no one able to leave the country, staycations became popular for many say camping blog venturecampers.
On top of that, the rising cost of renting a house has put many off doing so, especially when wages have failed to keep up with the cost of living crisis.
Although it has gained popularity again, many people opted for van life in the 60s and 70s.
Finally, she said finding places to shower and park overnight can feel like a constant battle.
Her followers shared their thoughts on her unique lifestyle in the comments section.
“This is so helpful!! I’m about to purchase a van for a lap, so thank you for being so open about the money side of it,” wrote one viewer.
“You have actually planned and saved well and done it right, you won’t regret it,” said another TikTok user.
“Good on you for saving and setting yourself up for an adventure of a lifetime,” commented a third person.
