At 53, Samia embraced van life for moms, transforming a custom-built Ram ProMaster van into a stable, beautiful home for herself and her son after investing everything in a business that didn’t work out.
Rather than letting financial hardship dictate her life, she chose a path that combined mobility, minimalism, and family stability.
“I needed a way to be a stable mother,” Samia explained. “I don’t think that just because you go through a difficult time… your life needs to be unstable. I still deserve a beautiful place to live, to feel safe, and to still have a life that I feel like I don’t need a vacation from.”
Initially, Samia considered an RV but opted for a Ram ProMaster due to its size, which fit her 5’3” frame and allowed for a comfortable layout for her son and herself.
She purchased the van brand new from a dealership in Colorado for $44,000, and the build-out cost an additional $50,000.
The design focused on non-negotiable features that provided both comfort and functionality.
Van life for moms: A home on wheels
The van measures like a studio apartment on wheels. It includes a kitchen, a convertible bedroom, a bathroom, a rear garage, and plenty of storage, all carefully organized for daily life on the road.
Samia’s monthly expenses average $1,500. This includes a $650 bankruptcy payment, gas, groceries, and minimal fees for water and dump stations.
Solar power covers electricity, so there’s no traditional electric bill. Filling the water costs about $1.50 for 5 gallons, and dumping the portable toilet costs about $10.
“I told you guys I’m getting my life back on track, and so make sure that you account for that when it comes to doing your monthly budget,” she said.
Kitchen and dining: Cooking on the go
The kitchen in Samia’s van is fully functional and designed for comfort, even on the move.
It includes a 2-burner propane stove, a deep sink with a hose long enough for outdoor showers, and a microwave stored beneath a cabinet along with cleaning supplies. The propane also connects to her furnace for heating.
“I cook way more in the van than I ever did inside of my home,” Samia said. “Along with me being a mom, this kitchen is so perfect for my son. Him cooking… it looks like the kitchen is made to suit him.”
She stores 18 gallons of clean water for emergencies and recommends keeping a portable hose on hand when traveling.
Her cutting board doubles as a desk for her son, allowing him to do homework or creative projects while enjoying the view.
Organization is key. Utensils, knives, mugs, and seasonings are displayed or stored with magnets and zip ties. Snacks for her son were moved to a lower shelf for easy access.
Samia emphasized flexibility: “Change it up to fit your needs… as you get used to your van, you’ll see what feels better for you.”
Bedroom, bathroom, and storage solutions
The bedroom is a convertible space, with a bed that doubles as a picnic table if needed.
Heated blankets and fleece keep them warm, while a projector and electric blind create a small home theater experience.
Storage is maximized under the bed, with books, journals, and her son’s school supplies neatly organized.
Her portable toilet is compact and flushable, with wipes, solution, and “toilet shoes” for dumping.
A chalkboard wall in the living area maintains continuity in her son’s school life and provides creative space. A full-size mirror doubles as a safety divider while driving.
“I just needed a toilet that worked,” Samia said. “There are wipes for your pleasure, I have toilet solution… and I have toilet shoes because you’re going to have to dump it.”
Storage solutions extend throughout the van. The pantry holds pots, pans, and clothing.
Slashes and multi-use spaces make the most of every inch, and magnetic lights conserve solar power while adding a homely touch.
Rear garage and outdoor gear
The rear garage functions as a mini-storage unit, holding extra clothes, lawn chairs, a grill, a heater, washing supplies, fishing gear, and hobby equipment.
Samia advised planning for storage under the bed and using multi-purpose spaces to maximize functionality.
“This is my garage. Don’t judge me,” she said. “Everything is here. Make sure that your bed can be used for storage when you’re doing your build; I think that’s just an amazing tip.”
Finding freedom and stability: Van life for moms
For Samia, van life for moms isn’t just a lifestyle—it’s a lesson in resilience, creativity, and prioritizing quality of life.
She credits her stability to community support, careful planning, and flexibility. She has an 18-month lease with a host family, giving her access to power, showers, and a consistent location for her son’s schooling.
“If I could leave you with any words of wisdom, first, I would say make sure that you have a solid community,” Samia said. “Second is… be aware that this lifestyle is going to put you in close proximity with yourself… give yourself grace. Third, please do not hold yourself back from living… you should be enjoying your life just off rip.”
From bankruptcy to a beautiful, functional mobile home, Samia shows that downsizing doesn’t mean sacrificing comfort or stability.
With careful planning, creativity, and intention, van life for moms can be both liberating and empowering—a small home with a big heart.
Watch Samia share her journey and give a full tour of her inspiring van-life setup for moms.
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