Embracing the Chill: A Van Life Journey through Cold Temperatures
As the sun sets and the temperatures drop, the van life community is often faced with the challenge of staying warm and comfortable in frigid conditions. In a recent video, a van dweller named Mato shares his experiences and tips for thriving in a Colorado winter, particularly with temperatures that plummet to well below freezing.
For Mato, cold weather isn’t just bearable—it's enjoyable. Having grown up in the South, he has developed an affinity for brisk conditions. Capping off a day filled with adventures, he prepares to settle down for the night with his cat, Lars, while the outside temperature hovers around 15°F (-10°C). With multiple heated blankets and an effective heating strategy, the duo manages to stay cozy inside their self-converted van.
The night promises to be chilly, yet Mato feels confident. He has learned techniques over time to make life on the road enjoyable, even in the cold.
The following morning, Mato wakes to find that the icy grip of winter has taken hold—his water contains literal ice chunks. Despite the harsh conditions, he embraces them and recounts a newfound morning ritual: washing his face with ice-cold water. This experience, reminiscent of a cold plunge he completed at hot springs the day before, invigorates him, setting a lively tone for the day.
Mato’s secret to staying warm lies chiefly in his power management strategy— a crucial component of van living, especially in extreme weather. He relies on two portable power generators: a Blue Eddy 1800 watt and an Anker C300, each serving different needs. The Blue Eddy powers his essential items such as his fridge and heater, while the smaller Anker generator manages smaller gadgets like charging phones, powering his TV, and even Lars’s automatic feeding bowl.
To maintain warmth while sleeping, Mato utilizes a combination of heated blankets and strategic layering. He employs what he affectionately refers to as "panini-ing" himself—laying on a heated blanket with another covering him. This method enables him to conserve power while ensuring a snug nights' sleep.
Additionally, Lars has his own heated dome, providing him with a warm retreat during colder nights, ensuring both man and beast stay toasty. Mato also mentions that he has access to an EcoFlow Wave, a compact heater and air conditioner combo, although he prefers using it sparingly due to limited power availability.
Crucial to Mato's success in keeping warm is employing the van’s engine. He often runs the engine for a short period before heading to bed or rising for the day to warm the interior effectively. This method allows for a more gradual acclimatization to the outside cold without overcrowding the heater usage, maximizing battery life.
Mato's most favorite technique for warmth, however, is cooking. The heat generated from his full stove and oven makes a significant difference in temperature inside the van, transforming the small space into a warm haven. The simple act of cooking not only fills the van with aromas but also provides a physical means of heating it.
While Mato feels comfortable with his current setup, he dreams of future improvements. He mentions plans for a redesign of his van that could include more efficient heating solutions and additional space. Such enhancements aim for the dual purpose of comfort and efficiency during colder months.
Community Engagement
In his video, Mato expresses gratitude for his viewer's support and encourages them to engage in the comments, asking for questions or suggestions to enhance his current lifestyle. Through Vlogmas, he hopes to connect with his audience more closely, building a community around shared experiences and struggles in van living.
Mato’s journey through the cold climate of Colorado highlights the challenges and joys associated with van life during winter. Through his resourcefulness, personal techniques, and community spirit, he not only survives but thrives in the chill. As he prepares for another day of exploration and warmth, he invites his viewers to join in on the adventure, reminding us all that embracing the elements can lead to invaluable experiences and warmth, both physically and emotionally.
Through shared stories and continuous learning, van life remains an adventurous pursuit, even as the temperatures draw down.
Part 1/8:
Embracing the Chill: A Van Life Journey through Cold Temperatures
As the sun sets and the temperatures drop, the van life community is often faced with the challenge of staying warm and comfortable in frigid conditions. In a recent video, a van dweller named Mato shares his experiences and tips for thriving in a Colorado winter, particularly with temperatures that plummet to well below freezing.
The Thrill of Cold Weather
Part 2/8:
For Mato, cold weather isn’t just bearable—it's enjoyable. Having grown up in the South, he has developed an affinity for brisk conditions. Capping off a day filled with adventures, he prepares to settle down for the night with his cat, Lars, while the outside temperature hovers around 15°F (-10°C). With multiple heated blankets and an effective heating strategy, the duo manages to stay cozy inside their self-converted van.
The night promises to be chilly, yet Mato feels confident. He has learned techniques over time to make life on the road enjoyable, even in the cold.
Morning Revelations: The Power of Cold
Part 3/8:
The following morning, Mato wakes to find that the icy grip of winter has taken hold—his water contains literal ice chunks. Despite the harsh conditions, he embraces them and recounts a newfound morning ritual: washing his face with ice-cold water. This experience, reminiscent of a cold plunge he completed at hot springs the day before, invigorates him, setting a lively tone for the day.
The Essentials of Power
Part 4/8:
Mato’s secret to staying warm lies chiefly in his power management strategy— a crucial component of van living, especially in extreme weather. He relies on two portable power generators: a Blue Eddy 1800 watt and an Anker C300, each serving different needs. The Blue Eddy powers his essential items such as his fridge and heater, while the smaller Anker generator manages smaller gadgets like charging phones, powering his TV, and even Lars’s automatic feeding bowl.
Efficient Heating Solutions
Part 5/8:
To maintain warmth while sleeping, Mato utilizes a combination of heated blankets and strategic layering. He employs what he affectionately refers to as "panini-ing" himself—laying on a heated blanket with another covering him. This method enables him to conserve power while ensuring a snug nights' sleep.
Additionally, Lars has his own heated dome, providing him with a warm retreat during colder nights, ensuring both man and beast stay toasty. Mato also mentions that he has access to an EcoFlow Wave, a compact heater and air conditioner combo, although he prefers using it sparingly due to limited power availability.
Keeping Warm: Practical Measures
Part 6/8:
Crucial to Mato's success in keeping warm is employing the van’s engine. He often runs the engine for a short period before heading to bed or rising for the day to warm the interior effectively. This method allows for a more gradual acclimatization to the outside cold without overcrowding the heater usage, maximizing battery life.
Mato's most favorite technique for warmth, however, is cooking. The heat generated from his full stove and oven makes a significant difference in temperature inside the van, transforming the small space into a warm haven. The simple act of cooking not only fills the van with aromas but also provides a physical means of heating it.
Future Aspirations
Part 7/8:
While Mato feels comfortable with his current setup, he dreams of future improvements. He mentions plans for a redesign of his van that could include more efficient heating solutions and additional space. Such enhancements aim for the dual purpose of comfort and efficiency during colder months.
Community Engagement
In his video, Mato expresses gratitude for his viewer's support and encourages them to engage in the comments, asking for questions or suggestions to enhance his current lifestyle. Through Vlogmas, he hopes to connect with his audience more closely, building a community around shared experiences and struggles in van living.
Conclusion: The Beauty of Van Life in Winter
Part 8/8:
Mato’s journey through the cold climate of Colorado highlights the challenges and joys associated with van life during winter. Through his resourcefulness, personal techniques, and community spirit, he not only survives but thrives in the chill. As he prepares for another day of exploration and warmth, he invites his viewers to join in on the adventure, reminding us all that embracing the elements can lead to invaluable experiences and warmth, both physically and emotionally.
Through shared stories and continuous learning, van life remains an adventurous pursuit, even as the temperatures draw down.