I Went Bankrupt… Then Rebuilt My Life in a Camper Van

Video Description

Thanks to ConnecTen for sponsoring today’s video. Click the link below and use THT35 to get $35 off your total order on internet that works for your lifestyle. https://connecteninternet.com/discount/THT35 Join our newsletter for all things living tiny! https://bit.ly/THT-Newsletter Her Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thecharlievancafe/ Her YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@SamiaBurton Her TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@thecharlievancafe Take our quiz to find what tiny is right for you - https://bit.ly/tinyhomequiz Interested In Being Featured On The Channel? : http://bit.ly/Tour-Application VIDEO DESCRIPTION: At 53 years old, after investing everything into a business that didn’t work out, Samia made a bold decision: instead of letting financial hardship define her quality of life, she moved into a custom-built Ram ProMaster van and created a stable, beautiful home for herself and her son. In this full tiny home tour, Samia shares how she designed her van for comfort, functionality, and financial freedom — all while maintaining stability as a mom and content creator. Van Build & Costs - Brand new Ram ProMaster: $44,000 - Custom van build: $50,000 - Total investment: ~$94,000 - Monthly expenses: approx. $1,500 (including $650 bankruptcy payment) For those researching affordable retirement, tiny home living, van life costs, or downsizing after financial setbacks, this breakdown offers real numbers and transparency. Tiny Kitchen with Full Functionality Samia prioritized non-negotiables: - 2-burner propane stove (works even when solar is low) - 18 gallons of fresh water storage - Deep sink with extendable hose for outdoor rinsing - Solar-powered fridge (with backup cooler in winter) - Multi-use cutting board that doubles as a desk Her kitchen functions like a studio apartment — proving that small space living doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort. Remote Work from Anywhere As a content creator and mom, reliable internet is essential. Samia uses Connect 10 mobile internet, which provides coverage across 95% of the U.S. and Canada. Whether she’s parked near the beach or staying with her host family, she can upload videos, stream content, and stay connected. If you're exploring remote work, digital nomad life, or mobile internet options for van life, this setup shows what’s possible. Smart Storage & Intentional Design Downsizing requires intention. Samia incorporated: - Multi-purpose furniture - Under-bed storage - Motion sensor lights - A flushable toilet (non-composting) - Chalkboard wall for her son - Convertible bed-to-table setup - Full-size mirror for everyday comfort Every element reflects thoughtful small space design for long-term living — not just weekend travel. Community & Stability One of the most powerful parts of Samia’s story is community. She and her son park with a host family under an 18-month agreement, giving them access to power, shower facilities, and stability during the school year. For anyone wondering, “Can you raise a child in a van?” or “Is van life realistic long-term?” — Samia shares how community makes it possible. Why She Chose Van Life Over an RV Samia originally considered an RV but chose a van build for size, flexibility, and long-term practicality. With solar power, propane heat, and smart budgeting, she created a lifestyle that allows her to travel, reset financially, and live intentionally. Her biggest message? Your quality of life shouldn’t depend on whether you’re in a season of success or rebuilding. Downsizing can be a strategic reset — not a step backward. Filmed by - https://www.instagram.com/brian_bear_butler/ Edited by - https://www.instagram.com/filmbro_/ TINY HOME TOURS LINKS: Business Enquiries - [email protected] Subscribe - https://www.youtube.com/c/TinyHomeTours Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Tinyhome.tours/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tinyhometours/ Newsletter : https://bit.ly/THT-Newsletter Podcast : http://bit.ly/THT-Podcast Apply for a tour : http://bit.ly/Tour-Application LIFE ON THE ROAD IN A SKOOLIE LINKS Life On The Road In A Skoolie Newsletter : http://bit.ly/OGSN-Signup Subscribe For Life On The Road Videos : http://bit.ly/OffGridSkoolieSubscribe Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Full Time Van Life 00:16 Solar Powered Camper Van Kitchen Tour 03:45 ConnecTen Reliable Mobile Internet for Remote Work 05:30 Tiny Home Design and Storage Organization Tips 10:20 Transitioning to Van Life and Monthly Budget 12:47 Portable Toilet and Bathroom Setup 13:26 Functional Chalkboard Wall and Vanity Mirror 14:54 Convertible Bedroom Layout and Movie Screen 16:23 Rear Garage Storage for Outdoor Gear 16:53 Wisdom for Starting a Minimalist Lifestyle