Buzz
A nomad is defined as someone without a permanent home, constantly moving from place to place in search of new pasture for their animals. While this definition holds true for traditional nomads, the modern nomad's reasons for this lifestyle can vary.
Some individuals are drawn to this way of life to escape the pressures of modern society, while others find themselves in such a lifestyle due to unavoidable circumstances. Regardless, the number of modern nomads is growing rapidly, thanks to individuals and families like those featured here.
The nomadic way of life has become increasingly popular in the past decade, so much so that the acclaimed nonfiction book Nomadland: Surviving America in the Twenty-First Century (2017) by Jessica Bruder was turned into an Oscar-winning movie in 2020, directed by Chloé Zhao. The book portrays the experiences of modern-day nomads in post-9/11 America, and the film even includes Bob Wells, who is highlighted as number nine in our list of the top ten ways to live like a nomad.
10. Solo in a Customized Van
With the rising cost of living, many young adults are turning to alternative housing options like cars, vans, or RVs to manage their expenses. While having a home on wheels may not be everyone's dream, it is for Amanda.
“After struggling with the common dilemma of working just to afford a home while sacrificing personal joy, Amanda took control of her situation and moved into a tent. That tent eventually turned into a van, and now she has a home that gives her the freedom to explore the outdoors and find inner peace. Her DIY build features family heirlooms, artwork from talented friends, and a variety of inventive storage solutions. Amanda and her dog Frank live the van life as many envision it—simple, free, and full of adventures.”
What a thrilling way to explore the world, all while enjoying the comforts of home and having extra money to indulge in the things that truly matter to you.
9. Live the Bob Wells Way
Bob Wells, known online as “Vandweller,” is an American YouTuber and author famous for founding the Rubber Tramp Rendezvous and running his CheapRVliving YouTube channel. Though Bob didn’t originally plan for his nomadic lifestyle, and his first move into a van was driven by necessity, he soon realized that this way of life was the perfect fit for him.
After spending more than 20 years living in mobile homes and vehicles, Bob founded the “Homes on Wheels Alliance,” a charity dedicated to providing livable cars and vans to those in need. He is also well-known for fostering a strong sense of community among “Vandwellers” across the U.S., with his Rubber Tramp Rendezvous gathering over 10,000 vehicle-dwelling individuals. His YouTube channel offers valuable tips on vehicle living, solar panel installation, and even finding affordable dental and vision care.
8. Become a Luxury RVer
If you’re ready to sell your home or have substantial savings, the luxury RV lifestyle could be your perfect match. A brand-new RV can cost up to $300,000, but you can find used models priced between $15,000 to $40,000. According to the Washington Post, one million Americans now live full-time in RVs, and many report that this change has brought them closer together as a family and improved their marriages.
RVs offer the advantage of more space compared to a van, complete with a built-in kitchen, bathroom, and plenty of storage. Families of six can even live comfortably in an RV while enjoying the freedom to travel across the country.
7. The Converted Sprinter Van
The van life experience can mean different things to different people, and for Chris and Sara, it’s all about living in a van that’s equipped with a stunning tile shower, a cutting-edge security system, a fully functional kitchen, and an office space.
“Hey there! We’re Chris + Sara, a husband-and-wife team working and traveling full-time with our dog, Kramer. We’ve always dreamed of this life, and in May 2018, we decided to take the plunge and make it a reality! Now, we’re balancing work and fun as we travel from the Pacific to the Atlantic. From hiking and cycling to enjoying tacos and coffee, we’re trying to experience as much of the world as we can! While our home is currently on wheels in our DIY Sprinter van, our journey takes us far and wide.”
Keep in mind that a Sprinter van typically costs around $50,000, and the expense of converting it into a livable space depends largely on how much of the work you can handle yourself.
6. The Minimalist Nomad
Minimalism is a central theme for many modern nomads. While the internet showcases many glamorous versions of the nomadic lifestyle, at its core, being a nomad is about having the freedom to move and adapt at a moment’s notice with as few possessions as possible.
Many individuals choose the nomadic lifestyle as a way to escape the pressure of societal expectations. For some, downsizing their home and belongings is the only way to free themselves from the constraints of modern life. If you seek freedom from consumerism, financial stress, and societal norms, the minimalist nomad lifestyle might be the perfect fit for you.
5. The Digital Nomad
The digital nomad is someone who embraces a nomadic lifestyle while working remotely. Often engaged in freelance work or jobs with flexible hours, they travel continuously. This way of life has grown in popularity since 2020, with the rise of remote job opportunities.
Typically, digital nomads don't have a permanent residence and frequently stay in hostels or short-term rentals. The term is often used loosely and may even refer to those living in converted vehicles or RVs. However, most digital nomads are travelers who earn money online.
4. Converting Your Car into a Tiny House
In the video above, Alyssa Vanilla showcases how she transformed her hatchback into a tiny home. There are numerous benefits to converting a hatchback or sedan over a van, such as lower costs, better fuel efficiency, and easier parking.
Alyssa’s channel dives into the various advantages and challenges of living in your car full-time, providing useful tips and insights for those interested in this nomadic lifestyle. Converting your vehicle is a great option for those seeking a more affordable and practical way to live on the road.
3. The Truly Unaffordable Space-Ship on Wheels
For those who prefer not to customize a van or other vehicle, you can always opt for a luxurious motorhome. This high-end mobile home is essentially the Bugatti La Voiture Noire of living vehicles. The interior mimics a private jet, featuring automated blinds, abundant storage, and sleek black and brown shelves. The bedroom rivals a five-star hotel, with a queen-sized bed, and the bathroom is spacious. Additionally, this motorhome comes with a garage built into its rear.
2. The Self-Sufficient Sailor
Not every modern nomad opts for a recreational vehicle. Some choose to live aboard a sailboat.
"Brian and Karin Trautman have spent the past decade living on their sailboat, which is equipped to let them live off the grid in remote locations for months. Their setup includes solar and wind power for electricity, a desalination system that converts saltwater into fresh, multiple freezers, plenty of food storage, and even a small onboard washing machine!"
"They have sailed over 83,000 nautical miles, equivalent to traveling around the Earth’s equator more than three times. Their recent adventures include sailing with their 6-month-old daughter, Sierra, and equipping their boat with a heater to explore the Arctic this summer after several years spent in the Tropics."
This lifestyle requires a different set of skills compared to living in a vehicle or as a "Vandweller," and it can be quite costly to start. While you'll save on gas and car insurance, there are other expenses to consider, such as docking fees and sailing lessons. Plus, you’ll need to be sure you won't get seasick.
1. The Renovated School Bus
Among all DIY homes on wheels, the school bus offers the most opportunity to truly customize it, thanks to its spacious interior.
The couple in the video above transformed their school bus into a fully functional home, adding a shower, composting toilet, closet, living room, bedroom, and kitchen—all while keeping it drivable. They travel the country with their two dogs and completed the entire project for just $15,000.
