What It Really Costs Me to Live in My Van Each Month (At 75)
Real numbers, real decisions, and how I make it work.
People ask me this more than anything:
“How much does it actually cost to live in a van?”
They’re usually expecting a simple answer.
A number.
But it’s not that simple.
Living this way doesn’t eliminate expenses.
It changes them.
At 75, I live in my van and manage every dollar carefully.
I don’t spend money unless I need to.
But there are still things that don’t go away:
Food.
Gas.
Phone.
Power.
And all the little things people don’t think about.
Food is one of my biggest priorities.
I don’t live on junk.
I cook real meals. I make choices that support my health, my strength, and my immune system.
That means I spend differently than someone trying to get by on the cheapest food possible.
And I’m okay with that.
Gas is another reality.
You don’t stay in one place all the time.
You move for safety.
You move for comfort.
You move because you have to.
And that costs money.
Then there are the small daily expenses.
A coffee.
Ice.
Something you didn’t plan for.
They don’t seem like much in the moment—but they add up.
There are things I don’t pay anymore.
No rent.
No utilities.
No property expenses.
That changes everything.
But it doesn’t mean life is free.
This life requires awareness.
You think before you spend.
You prioritize what matters.
You adjust constantly.
Some days are easier than others.
Some months are tighter than others.
But I’ve learned how to make it work.
If you’re thinking about living this way—or already doing it—this is what I would tell you:
Be honest about your spending.
Plan for more than you expect.
And focus on what actually matters.
I wrote a short guide breaking down exactly what I spend each month, what costs more than expected, and how I manage money day to day living in my van.
Thanks for reading!
Kindly,
Carol
In this life, every dollar matters
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Lived almost 6years in a van, then a trailer I purchased. Moving socks, but it is a part of this lifestyle. Planted a small container garden(salads), took a job at the campground I "lived" in. Had a full time job at a ski hill. I understand your situation. I'm not a writer, but this is great idea you have. Walmart was a place to count on back then, but not now.. I made a deal with the campground owners to clean campsites and keep the shower rooms, bathrooms clean. However, I'm on land I own now, have cancer, and can't live like that anymore. Hope things turn out for you!!!
To you two, thanks for the acknowledgement. Actually, I learned a lot!! Some survival, some societal..it was something I needed, will always treasure..keep going!!