Ep 81: From Debt to Freedom: Aja's Van Life Story
A Journey Toward Simplicity and Independence
On the Less House, More Moola podcast, Laura Lynch sat down with Asia Villacres, a solo female van lifer who turned her Chevy Astro van into a home on wheels. Asia’s story showcases the transformative power of van life—helping her tackle student debt, minimize expenses, and embrace a values-based lifestyle.
From Traditional Living to Nomadic Inspiration
Asia didn’t grow up in a nomadic household, but her parents’ post-divorce decision to live on the road inspired her and her brother to embrace alternative living. After traveling with her mom in 2020, Asia was motivated to purchase her own van and dive headfirst into a simpler, more mobile life.
Financial Freedom Through Tiny Living
Asia’s decision to move into a van was rooted in financial necessity and long-term goals. By eliminating rent, she redirected those funds toward her student loan debt, significantly accelerating her repayment timeline. Her experience proves that tiny living can be a powerful tool for achieving financial independence while prioritizing experiences over material possessions.
The Roller Coaster of Solo Female Van Life
Living on the road comes with highs and lows. Asia recounts moments of exhilaration—like finding remote desert spots—and challenges, including breakdowns that left her temporarily homeless. Through it all, she’s gained resilience, problem-solving skills, and confidence, underscoring the personal growth that comes with alternative living.
The Power of Storytelling: Asia’s YouTube Journey
Asia documents her experiences on her YouTube channel, Strange Days Diaries. With a focus on inspiring other women to embrace van life, her channel offers a blend of personal stories, practical tips, and empowering narratives. For Asia, creating content not only preserves memories but also motivates others to step out of their comfort zones.
Tips for Starting Your Van Life Journey
Asia encourages aspiring van lifers—especially women—to start small by renting a camper van for a weekend or a month. Platforms like Outdoorsy and Turo offer accessible options for testing the lifestyle. Watching YouTube creators who share their journeys is another excellent way to learn and gain inspiration.
Empowering Women to Embrace Alternative Living
Asia’s mission is to inspire independence in women who may be hesitant about solo travel. Her advice is simple: push your boundaries, embrace the discomfort of trying something new, and prove to yourself that you can thrive in an unconventional lifestyle.
Your Tiny Living Journey Starts Here
Are you ready to leave traditional living behind? Asia’s story demonstrates how van life can align your financial and personal goals. Visit thetinyhouseadviser.com for resources.
For full show notes and more information visit: https://bit.ly/4gbhQej
Quotes from the episode
“I live and travel full time in the Astro van”
“YouTube is amazing that way for showing anything”
“It’s given me so much more confidence”
Subscribe to the podcast
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Amazon Music | Google Podcasts | RSS
