An Edinburgh electrician decided to take a leap of faith and transition to van life in order to save money for a house, ultimately finding himself with the beach as his new back garden. Dom Wright, 30, made the bold decision to quit his job working for an electric vehicle charging installation company in March after facing long hours and low earnings. He had been renting a spare room for £750 a month and felt that he needed a change. Prior to his departure from his job, Dom had purchased a £17,000 Ford Transit van, which he initially intended to use as a runabout vehicle. However, after leaving his job, he saw the van as an opportunity for a new way of living.
Transition to Van Life:
After quitting his job, Dom spent between £1,000 and £2,000 on renovating his van so that he could live in it comfortably. He transformed the van to include a double bed, a desk, and even a portable shower. Dom’s van now serves as his home on wheels, allowing him to travel around the country while enjoying the flexibility and freedom that van life offers. With his van fully equipped for living, Dom has been able to save approximately £4,000 in five months by keeping his expenses between £550 and £850 per month.
Enjoying the Beachfront Lifestyle:
One of the perks of van life for Dom is the ability to choose his back garden, and he often finds himself parked near Portobello Beach, enjoying the serene surroundings. He takes advantage of special offers on food and cooks meals on his camping stove, allowing him to have a beachfront dining experience. Despite encountering some challenges along the way, such as rainwater leaking into the van due to a window installation oversight, Dom remains positive and finds joy in the simplicity of van living. He spends his evenings reading books by the beach, embracing the peaceful and cozy atmosphere of his mobile home.
Sharing the Journey:
Dom has been documenting his van life adventures on TikTok under the account @outside_with_ron, where he has garnered over 8,000 followers. His videos showcase the ups and downs of living in a van, offering a glimpse into the unique lifestyle that he has embraced. Dom’s most popular video has accumulated over 750,000 views, resonating with viewers who are curious about van life and the possibilities it presents. Through his social media presence, Dom hopes to inspire others to consider alternative living arrangements and explore the freedom that comes with minimalistic living.
Financial Savings and Future Plans:
By living in his van, Dom has been able to significantly reduce his expenses and increase his savings towards purchasing a home in Edinburgh. He estimates that he will need at least £50,000 for a deposit and expenses related to buying a property. With his current savings of £25,000 and the additional £4,000 saved in the last five months, Dom is well on his way to achieving his goal. Despite the challenges of winter weather and concerns about dampness in the van, Dom remains determined to continue with van living and adapt as needed. He sees van life as a way to challenge himself, improve his problem-solving skills, and maintain a disciplined lifestyle.
Advice for Aspiring Van Dwellers:
Reflecting on his experience, Dom offers advice to those considering van life, emphasizing the importance of self-confidence and resilience. He encourages others not to be deterred by social stigmas or perceived judgments, but rather to embrace the freedom and flexibility that van life can offer. Dom believes that as long as individuals are respectful, tidy, and considerate of their surroundings, they can enjoy the benefits of living on the road. Through his own journey, Dom has discovered a newfound appreciation for the outdoors, a sense of independence, and a renewed perspective on what truly matters in life.
In conclusion, Dom’s transition from electrician to van life enthusiast showcases the transformative power of stepping outside of one’s comfort zone and embracing new possibilities. His story serves as an inspiration for those seeking a simpler, more adventurous lifestyle, highlighting the joys of minimalistic living and the beauty of exploring the world on wheels. As Dom continues to navigate the challenges and rewards of van life, he remains committed to his goal of homeownership in Edinburgh, fueled by the savings and experiences gained through his unconventional journey.