Why I lived in a car


Hey Reader!

Back in 2015, I spent $21,000 a year on rent to live in the San Francisco Bay area.

When I think about that now, it seems crazy. That's so much money!

And what did I have to show for it? A tiny apartment I was never in because I was always working. A constant hustle to pay for a place to sleep.

Then I met Tom. He looked at my finances and said something I’ll never forget:

“What if you just… didn’t pay rent?”

I laughed at first. What do you mean, not pay rent? That’s just life. But then I thought about it. Could I do it? Could I actually live with Tom in his Toyota Prius and make it work?

So, I did. We moved into his car. This was 10 years ago, in 2015.

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At first, living in a car and commuting to work in San Francisco felt insane.

Sleeping in a vehicle in marinas and sometimes in my gated work parking lot with a view of the Coit Tower.

Brushing my teeth in public restrooms.

Taking showers at my gym.

Hiding from security at night.

But then? My bank account started growing. My stress started shrinking. And I realized something shocking: I didn’t miss my apartment.

That one decision—leaving behind traditional housing—completely changed my life. It led me to van life, to The Wayward Home, to helping others escape the 9-5 grind.

Would you ever live in a car to save money? Or does that sound totally crazy?

(Want to learn everything there is to know about living the van life? Check out my brand new Van Life 101 ebook here)

Hey! Want to live the van life? Whether you're a weekend warrior or full-timer, I'm here to help.

I spend half the year in a DIY Sprinter van camper, and the other half on a sailboat. I want to help you achieve your nomadic living dreams. Join my email list for van life tips and advice, remote work ideas, personal stories and anecdotes, and more!

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Hey Reader! Back in 2015, I spent $21,000 a year on rent to live in the San Francisco Bay area. When I think about that now, it seems crazy. That's so much money!And what did I have to show for it? A tiny apartment I was never in because I was always working. A constant hustle to pay for a place to sleep.Then I met Tom. He looked at my finances and said something I’ll never forget:“What if you just… didn’t pay rent?”I laughed at first. What do you mean, not pay rent? That’s just life. But...