A MAN has revealed that people call him ‘sad’ and ‘homeless’ because he lives in a van.
However, the full-time content creator, who lives an off-grid lifestyle, isn’t phased by the nasty remarks.
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The savvy saver explained that thanks to his home on wheels, he doesn’t pay a penny in rent or council tax.
Not only this, but the adventure lover also shared that living in a van means he doesn’t need to spend cash on water, gas or electricity either.
Posting on social media, the man shared an insight into his unique lifestyle, leaving many open-mouthed.
The influencer, who has amassed 73,000 followers on TikTok, responded to a comment from a hater that read: ‘A man of this age living by himself in a van. That is sad to be honest.’
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To this, the man responded with a clip captioned ‘everyone should be living their best life, van life is mine.’
He then confirmed: “I live completely rent free, I don’t pay any council tax, I get free electricity thanks to the solar panels on the top.
“I don’t have gas so I don’t have to pay for gas. My water is completely free.”
The man, who lives in a VW crafter campervan, explained that he isn’t showing off about his cheap way of life, as prior to living in a van and making content for a living, he worked extremely hard.
He added: “Now I’m not saying this to gloat. I’ve paid my dues, I was working since the age of 11, working hard as well.
“When I was old enough to get a bus driving licence, I spent the next 17 years driving buses, coaches, all over the world.
“I then moved over onto truck driving – this whole time I was living paycheck to paycheck to paycheck, constantly working every minute I could possibly work, just to prove myself as a good employee.”
The man, who calls himself a ‘mountain goat’, shared that travelling and exploring are his passions, and he isn’t bothered about “impressing anybody.”
The ‘Mountain Goat’s’ Costs
THANKS to living in a van, this man has slashed his monthly bills…
Rent: £0
Council Tax: £0
Electricity: £0
Gas: £0
Water: £0
He is currently travelling around in the Lake District and explained that his hobby has now become his career as a result of his “amazing followers”.
Not only does he not have to work a dull 9-5 job, but he is also “living his best life” and is keen to show others that they can do “exactly the same, whatever their dream is.”
The Rise Of Van Life
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.
The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @indi_van_a_jones, has clearly left many open-mouthed, as it has quickly racked up a jaw-dropping 401,000 views.
Regardless of the initial rude remark, social media users were keen to praise the man’s lifestyle, and many flocked to the comments to express this.
What an amazing way to live
TikTok user
One person said: “Good for you, that’s amazing.”
Another added: “Good for you and what an amazing way to live. Live out your remaining life a happy one.”
A third commented: “Perfect decision mate. This is the life we all should have.”
At the same time, someone else wrote: “Win win! Enjoy every moment! You do you!!”
Is it legal to live in a van?
IF you are looking to live in a van to save money or travel, you’ll be pleased to know that there are no UK laws stopping you.
However, you must ensure your vehicle has passed its MOT and is fully road legal.
There could also be restrictions on where you can park up to sleep in your van.
For example, local authorities place restrictions on certain streets or lay-bys, and you could be fined if you spend the night there.
It could also be unsafe to stop in certain locations, particularly at night-time.
Check the The Highway Code guide for guidance.