- 13
- 65 952
Ray Rambles
United States
เข้าร่วมเมื่อ 26 ก.ค. 2022
Exploring van life and the people who make it so interesting.
Hi guys, my name is Ray and I hope you'll join me on this journey into 'mini' van-life and off the grid living. My Channel is called Ray 'Rambles' because I have ADHD and I talk... a lot! I really do ramble on and on. But I'm usually funny and interesting - I promise. I hope you'll subscribe and come along for the ride!
My professional background is in writing, marketing management and broadcast television production. I transitioned into mobile app production about ten years ago and that has afforded me the opportunity to travel and work remotely.
I'm not a full-timer yet. I initially built this rig to travel to National Parks and camp along the way (about two weeks at time). The camper has evolved into a really comfortable home away from home and I'm trying longer and longer trips.
To feature me or the Minivan Camper on your TH-cam Channel or to request gear/product reviews, please contact me.
Hi guys, my name is Ray and I hope you'll join me on this journey into 'mini' van-life and off the grid living. My Channel is called Ray 'Rambles' because I have ADHD and I talk... a lot! I really do ramble on and on. But I'm usually funny and interesting - I promise. I hope you'll subscribe and come along for the ride!
My professional background is in writing, marketing management and broadcast television production. I transitioned into mobile app production about ten years ago and that has afforded me the opportunity to travel and work remotely.
I'm not a full-timer yet. I initially built this rig to travel to National Parks and camp along the way (about two weeks at time). The camper has evolved into a really comfortable home away from home and I'm trying longer and longer trips.
To feature me or the Minivan Camper on your TH-cam Channel or to request gear/product reviews, please contact me.
15 Epic Hacks, Tips & Tricks for Car Camping & Van Life
Get ready for an adventure! In this video, I'll unveil 15 ingenious DIY hacks that will transform your off-grid car camping and van life experience! From budget-friendly bug screens and shower tents to innovative bed designs, magical table legs, wiring wizardry and mounting mastery-this is a must-see!
If this video inspires you, please subscribe to the channel... I'd truly appreciate it!
For professional inquiries, reach out at youtube@rayrambles.com.
Links to Products & Materials Featured:
rayrambles.com/links-15-hacks-tips-tricks-yt-5pjnel_bnya/
See my complete van tour video here:
th-cam.com/video/CYvEPRoCwNk/w-d-xo.html
Video Chapters:
00:00 Hacks, Tips & Tricks
00:37 Tip Number 1~ Bug OFF!
01:10 Tip Number 2 ~ Rain. Rain. Go Away!
01:34 Tip Number 3 ~ Privacy/Shower Tent
02:10 Tip Number 4 ~ Flex Mount Boards
02:40 Tip Number 5 ~ DC Appliances
03:01 Tip Number 6 ~ Step Converters
03:17 Tip Number 7 ~ Smart Stripper & Lever Nuts
04:03 Tip Number 8 ~ Holey Cow ~ this is cool!
04:34 Tip Number 9 ~ Locking Drawer Slides
05:07 Tip Number 10 ~ Secret to a Comfy Sofa
05:48 Tip Number 11 ~ Sunbrella Fabric
06:00 Tip Number 12 ~ Cable/Zip Ties
06:38 Tip Number 13 ~ Bike Bottle Cages
06:54 Tip Number 14 ~ DIY Storage Shelf
07:36 Tip Number 15 ~ Magic Table Leg
Build Videos:
Sofa Bed: th-cam.com/video/oqulyuDeWGw/w-d-xo.html
Sink Box: th-cam.com/video/TiO-H93x1pU/w-d-xo.html
Shower: th-cam.com/video/pmcpS2qleAg/w-d-xo.html
Toilet: th-cam.com/video/UTKyOJ4VHXA/w-d-xo.html
Shelf/Table: th-cam.com/video/zNM1yVAC60g/w-d-xo.html
Solar: th-cam.com/video/Q9Ch0iZmi_M/w-d-xo.html
Windows: th-cam.com/video/AkGPKCT9JBo/w-d-xo.html
Bug Screens: th-cam.com/video/wbR7XaoYgh0/w-d-xo.html
If this video inspires you, please subscribe to the channel... I'd truly appreciate it!
For professional inquiries, reach out at youtube@rayrambles.com.
Links to Products & Materials Featured:
rayrambles.com/links-15-hacks-tips-tricks-yt-5pjnel_bnya/
See my complete van tour video here:
th-cam.com/video/CYvEPRoCwNk/w-d-xo.html
Video Chapters:
00:00 Hacks, Tips & Tricks
00:37 Tip Number 1~ Bug OFF!
01:10 Tip Number 2 ~ Rain. Rain. Go Away!
01:34 Tip Number 3 ~ Privacy/Shower Tent
02:10 Tip Number 4 ~ Flex Mount Boards
02:40 Tip Number 5 ~ DC Appliances
03:01 Tip Number 6 ~ Step Converters
03:17 Tip Number 7 ~ Smart Stripper & Lever Nuts
04:03 Tip Number 8 ~ Holey Cow ~ this is cool!
04:34 Tip Number 9 ~ Locking Drawer Slides
05:07 Tip Number 10 ~ Secret to a Comfy Sofa
05:48 Tip Number 11 ~ Sunbrella Fabric
06:00 Tip Number 12 ~ Cable/Zip Ties
06:38 Tip Number 13 ~ Bike Bottle Cages
06:54 Tip Number 14 ~ DIY Storage Shelf
07:36 Tip Number 15 ~ Magic Table Leg
Build Videos:
Sofa Bed: th-cam.com/video/oqulyuDeWGw/w-d-xo.html
Sink Box: th-cam.com/video/TiO-H93x1pU/w-d-xo.html
Shower: th-cam.com/video/pmcpS2qleAg/w-d-xo.html
Toilet: th-cam.com/video/UTKyOJ4VHXA/w-d-xo.html
Shelf/Table: th-cam.com/video/zNM1yVAC60g/w-d-xo.html
Solar: th-cam.com/video/Q9Ch0iZmi_M/w-d-xo.html
Windows: th-cam.com/video/AkGPKCT9JBo/w-d-xo.html
Bug Screens: th-cam.com/video/wbR7XaoYgh0/w-d-xo.html
มุมมอง: 13 191
วีดีโอ
The Ultimate Camper Van Table for Car Camping and Van Life
มุมมอง 3.6Kวันที่ผ่านมา
Get ready to witness an incredible transformation as this ordinary shelf becomes The Most VERSATILE camper van TABLE you've ever laid eyes on! This budget-friendly upgrade is a total game-changer for car camping and van life. Join me for a step-by-step DIY tutorial that's super easy to follow! If this video inspires you, please subscribe to the channel... I'd truly appreciate it! For profession...
I Said Goodbye to DIY and Found the EASIEST WINDOW BUG SCREENS Ever!
มุมมอง 6K14 วันที่ผ่านมา
Say NO to BUGS and YES to Fresh AIR with three off-the-shelf solutions for car window screens. Plus tips to keep the rain out when the windows are down and how to keep the screens steady on windy days. We'll check out magnetic window screens, gutter guard filters and slip-on screens to see which ones are best for Van Life, SUV and Car Camping. If this video inspires you, please subscribe to the...
Quick FOLDING SOFA BED Revolutionizes DIY VanLife
มุมมอง 19K28 วันที่ผ่านมา
Take your DIY van life to the next level with an innovative FOLDING SOFA BED that converts in just two seconds. This game-changing solution revolutionizes the way you live and travel in your rig, providing the ultimate comfort and flexibility. From features and functionality to materials and installation, we'll cover it all. Plus TWO TIPS to make any convertible sofa bed MORE COMFORTABLE. Get r...
Crashing Coolers: The Minivan Camper Diaries
มุมมอง 866หลายเดือนก่อน
Join me on an exhilarating adventure out West as I tackle inverter power problems, battle portable fridge overheating issues and more while meeting Bob Wells of CheapRVLiving! I'll dive into my troubleshooting journey and share the valuable lessons I learned during my DIY minivan camper build conversion. If this video sparks your inspiration or grabs your interest, don't forget to like and subs...
HIDDEN Toilet in Luxury Minivan Camper!
มุมมอง 3Kหลายเดือนก่อน
Get ready to witness the creation of an extraordinary Hidden Toilet in this Luxury Minivan Camper! This sleek, full-size toilet features a soft-close lid, an exhaust fan and a cutting-edge 3D printed liquid separating diverter. It's cleverly concealed beneath a stunning bi-folding butcher-block countertop. Truly one of a kind! If this video sparks your creativity or piques your interest, please...
7 States in 7 Days - Epic Road Trip Adventure!
มุมมอง 342หลายเดือนก่อน
Join me for an epic road trip from Texas to the East Coast and back in just 7 days. From the non-stop party scene in downtown Nashville Tennessee to the natural beauty of the New Jersey Shore. We’ll go off-road in a Missouri forest and underwater in a Maryland tunnel. This jam-packed video has quick stops at spectacular state parks in Indiana and Virginia... plus a night-time excursion to see t...
INCREDIBLE Camper Van Sink with Running Water and AC Power!
มุมมอง 1.3K2 หลายเดือนก่อน
How I created an Incredible Minivan Camper Sink with Running Water, AC Power and a Removable Magnetic Spice Rack! Ideal for Cooking Off the Grid, Inside and Outside the Van. If this video sparks your inspiration or piques your interest, please give it a thumbs up and subscribe to the channel. I would be super grateful! For professional inquiries, reach out to me at youtube@rayrambles.com. EZ Wa...
GENIUS Tilting Solar Panels in the ULTIMATE DIY Camper
มุมมอง 7052 หลายเดือนก่อน
How I transformed three solar panels into an awesome hinged solar array on my DIY minivan camper roof! Discover the secrets to crafting and mounting custom gearboxes. Plus, check out my epic roof rack mod using unistrut channel and see how I leveled a massive 270º awning! If this video sparks your creativity or piques your interest, smash that like button and subscribe to the channel - it would...
Secrets of the Famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas - America's most iconic roadside attraction
มุมมอง 4422 หลายเดือนก่อน
This Route 66 Road Trip showcases beautiful video and the story behind the cars buried at the famous Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo Texas. We'll also visit the VW Slug Bug Ranch and a buried tractor exhibit called Combine City. If this video inspires you or you find it interesting, please like it and subscribe to the channel. I'd really appreciate it. Contact me for professional inquiries: hello@ra...
DIY Window Coverings for Van Life on a Budget
มุมมอง 8402 หลายเดือนก่อน
Unleash your creativity as I show you how I crafted amazing custom DIY window shades for my minivan camper build! Get ready for tips on car window tint, simple bug screens and the costs involved. If this video sparks your inspiration or piques your interest, smash that like button and subscribe to the channel-I'd be super grateful! For professional inquiries, reach me at hello@rayrambles.com. C...
DIY Minivan Camper with Off-Grid Shower: Ultimate Van Life Upgrade
มุมมอง 10K2 หลายเดือนก่อน
Off-grid 7-gallon shower with powerful water pressure and a DIY low-profile 3D printed liquid separating toilet featuring an exhaust fan! All in a tiny minivan camper. Get ready for a thrilling demo, in-depth details and a complete cost breakdown. If this video sparks inspiration or proves helpful, smash that like button and subscribe to the channel-I'd truly appreciate it! For professional inq...
TALL GUY turns TINY Minivan into Luxury Camper! Full Tour
มุมมอง 7K2 หลายเดือนก่อน
Complete tour of my incredible DIY minivan camper featuring a stunning convertible sofa bed, a kitchen with running water, a fridge and freezer, a custom folding countertop, a hidden liquid separating toilet, a shower with amazing water pressure, a gigantic awning, 300 watts of tilting solar, a 2000 watt lithium portable power station, tons of rooftop storage, and so much more! If this video sp...
This site is going to be a huge success. Very professional presentation and fantastic tips and tricks. I just subscribed to this site. I hope all you do too!
@@dbbang1 Thank you!
Really appreciate your videos. You need more followers
@@chriskiro Thanks. We’ll get there. I just started a few months ago. It’s all good.
I didn’t want this video to end. Great job. Watching your other vids
You’re in luck - I have 25 more tips coming up in the next video. 😆
These are great man. You deserve more followers. Keep it at!
Thank you! I appreciate your support.
Hiking pole could be used for the table, too… great tips!
You’re right, a hiking pole could definitely be used for the table! Thanks for watching! 😊
I also like your urine diverter as its deeper than most.
Where can one get a CPAP like you have?
@@JB-eg1tb lofta.com/products/resmed-airmini
@@rayrambles Thank you!
Thank you for sharing your minivan kitchen set up. I like it a lot and intend to use it in my minivan plan. I especially like the way you drained your sink into your grey water tank in a way that lets you move it and your detachable spice rack easily from inside to outside your van.
@@LoraPetrie-og6gd I’m glad you found it helpful. Good luck with your build.
Wow usted es genial ❤❤❤
¡Muchas gracias! 😊
This is absolutely excellent and I have watched countless similar videos.
@@Brenda-es3gw thank you. I appreciate it.
👍👍
I think you've created the minivan build I could best live in. I really appreciate that you have all of the safety features I would want in my van. A smoke detector, CO2 detector and propane/natural gas detector, if you use gas, are vital, IMO. And a fire extinguisher would be the first thing I installed. Van living looks like fun, but only if one takes proper steps to ensure ones safety! I have to admit that I would be all electric. The gases leave me unsettled. And, while I prefer a flush john, your solution is excellent. I have been in situations where I've not had running water for days and made do with a 5 gallon bucket, garbage bag and cat litter. Fortunately, I buy my cats litter that kills the smell! I love your awning! Most van awnings just don't do the job. Yeah, you have shade over part of the side of your van, but what if your kitchen is in the back of the van? The rear hatch really isn't that big, it doesn't offer a lot of shelter from the sun, rain or snow (some people be really nuts and go camping in the snow!). You didn't say anything about screens for your windows. Mosquitoes adore me and I tend to look like I'm performing some sort of slapping dance when they visit me, so screens are an important addition; I figured it would be a small issue with you, with anyone who has tasty blood. I love the flowers and plants in the door. And the versatility of your kitchen is brilliant. Your sink is so clever! I would still want my coffee maker though. It's one of those small 5 cup jobs, so it would fit very nicely in a tiny kitchen. Ah, I'm enjoying dreaming about van life, but I love my comforts too much! My lazyboy wouldn't fit nicely in a minivan and there would be little room for anything else. So ima sit here and admire your clever inventiveness. Damn! That IS a nice build!
You bring up some great points! Also - I do have links in the description to detailed 'Build Videos' for many features including Window Bug Screens. Thanks for watching!
How does this pass an MOT?
I think you're referring to a state auto-inspection? I can only speak for Texas and I don't have any issues. It passes all the requirements for safety and emissions.
@ yes, I think we’re on about the same thing as is called an MOT in the UK and they’re really picky There’s no way they would allow the set up. You have it is a shame.
Fantastic! Doing my build right now, and it's true - more than one purpose for something makes it worth the real estate it takes up. And having that table work as a shelf to clear room in the living area while you're parked is so great.
That's exactly the kind of thinking that'll make your build awesome! I spend hours and hours thinking of ways to make things do more. Good luck on your travels.
Now this is a vid with actual creative hacks and builds. Especially appreciate pieces that multitask, always looking for something more versatile than 1 hit wonders
Thank you!
U rock
@@winsome6705 thanks!
Great info !!
@@christinesizemore9406 Thank you!
Great ideas! Thank you
@@RamblinVanandBud you’re welcome!
Slick. Keeper video.
@@pedalparadise4096 thanks!
What is the name of the car canopy? I thought that was really nice. I googled but only found 270° ones.
It is a 270º awning from Overland Vehicle Systems. You can get them on Amazon: geni.us/nomadic-270-awning
Intelligent ideas in this one! I used a piano hinge but I like your table mount better. Too bad you can’t volunteer your expertise at H.O.W.A. Meetups!
I've been thinking about that for a while - just have to get out that way for the next HOWA BYOV
Brilliant ideas, many I haven’t seen before, thanks 👍
You’re welcome 😊
This is insanely cool! Well done 👍 🎉❤
Thanks, I appreciate it!
Awesome video, thanks.
My pleasure!
I have that exact CPAP machine! How do you convert it to run on 12 V DC?
lofta.com/products/airmini-dc-converter
Where did you get your gutter guard from
@@VanventureswithKaia Here’s a link to a lot of the materials: rayrambles.com/links-15-hacks-tips-tricks-yt-5pjnel_bnya/
I'm so thrilled you started a channel 🎉 I'm looking to implement a few of your fantastic ideas. TY so much for sharing. You're a great human being.
@@joellynparks7805 thank you
@@rayramblesthank you
Thanks, Ray! I saw your WONDERFUL rig on a Bob Wells vid, and it was great to see you are now making these super-helpful videos too!
@@kimstephenson3876 thank you!
Wow that was great thank you😊
@@MarySelvidge you’re welcome!
Great tips!!
Thanks!
Omg 😳 you are genius!!! Tfs
Thanks! Glad you liked it.
You are amazing
Thanks.
Some great ideas..thanks!
@@MaryCummingsSinko You’re welcome!
😜
For the rear window you can use a large piese of cardboard and spraupaint it.
That would work!
THIS IS BY FAR THE BEST EVER #1 VAN BUILD THAT IVE EVER SEEN!!!!!
@@memphis03 Wow. Thank you so much!
Genius stuff. Thanks!
@@elianaj.3373 you’re welcome!
Those screens look great, but I can’t use them because I have to install and be able to open and close the door. I once made those gutter guards for my front windows on my e150. Now, that’s hard work!
Yess it is!
Great tips Ray!
@@robingoff322 thanks!
You can buy the Bouge RV portable shower water heater too, works pretty good
@@chriskopeikin2702 thanks- I’ll check it out.
Thanks, Buddy! Nice Ideas!
Glad you like them!
These are great ideas!!! Great video! Just subscribed!
Awesome! Glad you enjoyed it.
Hubba ❤❤❤❤❤
My favorite was the gutter guards, never saw that before. Gonna try it. Also, great tip to make the seat board deeper! Thanks for the ideas!
You’re welcome! Hope those tips work out for you.
OMG thes r priceless road tripping essentials, lov thes innovative ideas!!! Im getin redy to start fulltime stealth car camping in my 07 rav4 in jan 2025, but when i get my minivan i hope to b able to replicate som of thes hacks here, thats cause for more excitement in my lil carmotel. Do u accept taking on other peoples conversions at all?
Thank you! Check out @SUVRVing ~ he has a lot of videos of car camping in a 2011 Rav4. th-cam.com/video/1p4ZVtt2C_Q/w-d-xo.html
Thanks again, Ray!!! I appreciate you sooooo much!
You’re welcome! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
You are truly a GENIUS!!!
That's sweet. Thank you.
Thank you, Ray!!! Your videos and ideas are AMAZING!!
Thanks! I appreciate it.
If you’re not into sewing , Amazon , Etsy etc have vendors that will make custom size cushion covers , with or without foam , for your bed /lounge . Pricey but cry once and go for sunbrella acrylic fabric for its durability 🕺👍
That's a great tip for those who want a ready-made solution!
I like your ideas. Would love a slower tutorial on some things like the table.
Thank you ~ there is a link to a video for that in the description - look under Build Videos: 'Shelf/Table'
@ thanks, I’ll check it out
Fabulous build! I hope to incorporate some of these in a future build 😊🤘
Thanks. Good luck with yours!