I gave up my apartment and moved into my car – now I’m traveling around the country
WE’VE all dreamed of quitting our jobs, packing up our things and hitting the road.
That’s exactly what one woman has done. There’s a catch to her casual lifestyle, though.
In a viral videoTikTok user Nate (@motherlover) explained that she chooses to live in her car.
“You don’t have to have money to live in your car and you’re going to save money,” she told her followers.
Nate shared that she decided to give up her rental apartment and quit her job to pursue life on the open road.
She explained that her unique lifestyle allows her to save money on rent and bills, which means she doesn’t have to work.
Nate, who splits her time between her car and van, currently travels the United States in her spare time.
However, she did not give up all her possessions to realize her dream.
She said she keeps most of her belongings, including her bed, in a storage unit.
Nate lay in the backseat of her car, detailing her financial situation.
However, most viewers were left more confused than ever by her attitude.
“I need money for gas and insurance ma’am,” one TikTok user commented.
“I lived in my car on a two-week road trip across the US and it was still expensive,” said another.
“Girl!! It’s expensive to live in your car, you can’t save anything,” wrote a third viewer.
Others, however, seemed more supportive of Nate’s adventurous life.
“I’m selling my house and doing this. I can’t wait!” shared one impressed follower.
“That was very brave of you, enjoy,” another TikTok user commented.
Is it legal to live in a van?
IF you want to live in a van to save money or to travel, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are no laws in the UK that stop you.
However, you do need to ensure that your vehicle has passed its MOT and is fully road legal.
There may also be restrictions on where you can park your van to sleep.
For example, local authorities impose restrictions on certain streets or parking lots and you may be fined if you spend the night there.
It can also be dangerous to stop in certain places, especially at night.
Check the The guide to traffic rules for guidance.
“I did it for two years [then] “I bought my land, best thing that ever happened,” said another viewer.
“I lived in my car for two years, finally found a place to stay, now I just want to be in my car again. It was strangely liberating!” one person shared.
“It’s not cool if it’s out of survival and necessity, but I’m glad it works for you!” another follower commented.
“Especially if the car is paid off! Thanks for the idea!” wrote one viewer.
“If I didn’t have kids, this is what I would do. This is something I want to do for six months or a year, when my kids are older,” another TikTok user commented.