Vanwives

Vanwives, comprising Jazmyn Canning and Crystal Drinkwalter, have transitioned from traditional careers to global van-life adventurers, inspiring audiences with their journey and commitment to off-grid living. After undertaking the ambitious Panamerican Route from Alaska to Argentina, Jazmyn Canning and Crystal Drinkwalter established themselves as Vanwives in 2019, documenting their global van-life adventures. In February 2019, they purchased and retrofitted a 2006 Mercedes Sprinter van, investing approximately $24,000 in its acquisition and conversion. This 92-square-foot mobile home, equipped with a pressurized water system, thermostat, and solar-powered electricity, became the foundation for their off-grid explorations.

By February 2020, they had cultivated a substantial online following of approximately 10,000 followers across their YouTube and Instagram platforms, sharing their journey across Canada, the U.S. West Coast, and Mexico. Their dedication to an autonomous lifestyle saw them living in their van as their primary residence during a period in Tofino, B.C., where they worked as waitresses to maximize savings. They further honed their self-sufficiency by acquiring electrical and plumbing skills to maintain their mobile home.

Their inspirational journey gained significant industry recognition, leading to their feature in Euronews Travel’s prominent ‘Women Beyond Borders’ series in October 2020. This period reinforced their commitment to a life focused on fulfillment and adventure outside conventional structures, continuously attracting a growing online community. Demonstrating their deep commitment to nature and off-grid living, Canning and Drinkwalter acquired a 15-acre plot with an off-grid cabin in the Canadian Maritimes for $37,000 prior to April 2023. This strategic move provided a winter sanctuary, highlighting their resilience and ability to adapt to extreme conditions.

Their ability to access and thrive in diverse environments, coupled with their compelling storytelling, positions them as highly sought-after voices in the adventure, sustainability, and lifestyle content spheres.