As the sliding door opened, I stepped out into the fresh mountain air, taking in a deep breath of the cold atmosphere. A deep valley surrounded on all sides by towering peaks engulfed my vision. As the sun began to come into view, it ignited the valley with its signature golden glow. Such a beautiful view must be accompanied by a matching price tag, but not today, not for me. This view was free, and there was no one else within sight to enjoy its magnificence. Living out of a van has its definite advantages. It may not be the most glorious or respectable (by traditional standards) thing to do, but it is treating me well.

I did not expect to be enjoying van life. But when you take on all aspects of your life with joyful acceptance, they tend to treat you likewise in return. I get to wake up somewhere new every morning, parking in the dark and waking to a surprise in the light. Also, I’m a bit scared to park it in the same place due to people becoming suspicious but I like the randomness it brings more.

For some reason I always feel a little guilty going to bed inside a car. Like I’m not a good fit for normal society, or I’m some kind of outcast. Then I remember, I’m not a good fit, and I love being an outcast. A wise man once told me “You must learn how to live in and contribute to your society without being consumed by it.” Living out of a closet on wheels allows me to follow that path.

There are still a few walls between me and officially calling myself a van dweller. I still have access to a friend’s home where I can use all the bathroom and kitchen amenities my heart desires, like a fridge, oven, and toilet. Once those consistencies have been removed, living in a space that makes tiny houses look grand will become much more interesting. Some purchasables still need to be purchased. A cargo box up top for gear storage, and a bike rack for the back to carry my preferred transportation intact. I should be able to purchase both of these before or during this weekend. Then I can start to fine tune the free rent lifestyle.