For years, many have celebrated van life as a way to escape the day-to-day grind of the world. Getting off the grid and out of the expensive demands of the world, like rent and other expenses. However, one man may have found an even less expensive alternative to van life. Let’s call it boat life.
Videos by Outdoors
Martin Haseman has been posting his journey into living in a houseboat on public waterways.
Here’s one of his videos explaining the low cost of boat life:
In his video, Haseman explains how he’s avoiding rent and a mortgage with his self-constructed houseboat. He says he built it for only $2,500.
Currently, his boat is on the Tennessee River. Haseman says he can anchor in one spot for up to 14 days, but then he’s required to move at least a mile away. A small, inexpensive engine helps him move to the next site. Other than that, he’s docking near public land and is legally allowed to do so.
Enjoying ‘Boat Life’
Haseman argues that his boat life setup is cheaper than van life due to the high costs associated with owning a vehicle and maintaining it.
His DIY houseboat also comes with some impressive additions, like hot water, which is a welcome amenity for him, along with his dog and cat.
However, some in the comments argue that there are some setbacks, like he’s essentially stuck in the river. Haseman seems to acknowledge that and says his ultraminimalist lifestyle isn’t for everyone.
“Nomadic life is a choice that many people are making to avoid the constant increase cost of living,” wrote Haseman on one of his posts. “I have tried them all. I am here to tell you. This is the cheapest one. Houseboat life.”
Haseman does say that many marinas have a courtesy car, so if he rents a slip for the boat, he can borrow a car for the day to resupply.
Would you trade van life for boat life?
