I enjoy your content, newly subscribed. Reason; You're a genuine guy with information to share, NO fake hype, NO click bait, just you. Keep it up, fantastic!
Additional: Put a dehumidifier in the front or seal it off really well. Otherwise, the humidity and heat from the back will build up in the front and *completely wreck* the electronics. 5 years of living in an RV in the States taught me this the hard way.
Heres a tip for you, and anyone whos watching..buy some greenhouse thermal insulation, cut it to the size of your bed slats (or whatever u have) and lay it on..put your mattress or cushions on top of it and when your in bed at night your body heat wont escape through the bottom of the bed via the cushions as it will reflect back up from the insulation keeping u warm...
@@stephen3654 Nope, ive had it under my mattress for over a year now, no mould and it keeps u toasty during cold nights especially when used in conjunction with a heated blanket...
I have recently discovered the centuries old joy of wearing long johns plus thermal top. My initial reason was to get by with a lighter sleeping bag on camping trips, but I now wear them at home also. They make a big difference negating unecessary additional heating costs. 👍
I got homeless and had to live in a fishing bivy during the snow minus 5 i was in propper survival mode and had a rough time of it with condensation you have to get the right mix of cold air with hot air you have to equalise the both i have a flat now and look back at that time it was a great experience in life having nothing living wild.
I was homeless for a while and lived in my car for 2 months. I have a flat now aswell, but it looking back it made me stronger mentally and I learnt a lot about life and who your so called friends are, glad you are ok.
Since you have a decent solar setup (and drive around charging your batteries) get yourself an electric blanket for the bed. Even on their highest setting they only draw around 50W, I use one on low (10-20W) and it will keep you toasty warm with a nice thick duvet on top. Much better than a hot water bottle.
Very informative vlog. As a class 1 trucker for the last 30 years I've had a few winter night's out on the even stuck for 3 nights on the M8...lol Well done chap keep them coming. As I said before it's good to find someone that speaks about thing straight without any bullshit editing or trying to be cocky about it. Nice job. Rob
class 1? is that CDL grade? cause I'm skeptical if you're driving a class 1 vehicle..... it's remotely possible but I've never heard of it. me? I'm just a sad sod that got rejected from being allowed to operate class 9 vehicles in a CDL class A distinction.
I have wild camped in a motorhome over Xmas / NY period in the north of Scotland many times, the most important thing is to stay out of the wind as the chill factor will be 2-3 times as much as the nominal air temperature. Secondly its good to have a well insulated vehicle, the few makes that are made in Scandinavia have floor and wall heating which makes all the difference. Apart from that I would say make sure you have some light thermal underwear and a good thermal duvet, if you have those and unless its -10C plus, you probably won't need the heating on through the night.
With no heating in my van my saviour is an electric blanket, they don't take much power, 30 - 50 watts for a single that's enough to heat the centre of a double bed. I've survived winter nights with ice on the inside of the van thanks to that blanket!
In my van now -1degrees. Rigged a double Duck maybe Goose(can’t remember)down quilt between the cab and the back,no draughts. Truma heater on half heat no 5, gas only as off grid. Toasty warm in a tee shirt and track suit bottoms.
Love watching your videos Darren " funny guy but very interesting topics on living full time ' can't get enough of you as looking into doing full time with the wife . Keep up the good work buddy 👍.
For my odd weekend in the van in the winter I made a heated blanket I got a few packs of heating fabric strips meant for putting in jackets I think. Sewed them into a blanket and have 2 solar power charging units 1 lasts 4-6 hours and it's not overly hot but enough to so you freezing
I have to say, you are one of the best vlogger mate. I watched I think all of your videos because they are infirmative and no bollox like 99 percent of youtubers. I have started to look at motorhomes as our swb master is not enough for long term camping and trips. I was especially curious about winter camping and ski trips but unfortunally havent seen anyone doing video how to winterise van for winter camping rather then staying warm. Would you be able to do it? I guess you have loads of other van lifers around you and you could come up with video about it. Cheers buddy! Keep it up!
Love your sense of humour 😂 Wish I had the nerve to get out of this rat race - but at least now I've found your channel I can watch someone who has actually done it - thank you!
Think of it as your life story book, end one chapter start a new one, best thing I ever did take control of your own life, if you think of it in economic terms you'll never change.
I have seen ones you can buy, I might look into making one that can break down in size, that the only reason I've not bought one because of storing it somewhere all the time will be a pain, good to know they work really well though
Just get a big chap like you in your motorhome, got to add a decent amount of heat. If it’s not enough just get him doing some press-ups. Soon be ‘toasty warm’.
As carbon dioxide is heavier than air (density of air is approx 1.22kg/cubic metre - Co2 1.61 kg/cubic metre) your co2 monitor should be close to the floor not at ceiling height. That way you will get a much earlier warning if you have a co2 problem.
CO2 is carbon dioxide, the stuff thats added to Cherry Pepsi Max to make it fizzy. We breathe it out and plants breathe it in. Do you mean carbon *monoxide*? That is a little LIGHTER than air, so the recommended placement of a CO detector at about shoulder/head height is correct.
When l lived in a van ( for a year, Inc The Beast from the East ) l simply wore triple layers , and made my bed with six double duvets folded , 3 below and 3 above , much cheaper than all that thermal , and l replaced them every 6 weeks , because we shed and sweat in bed. I always wanted to look out , at all times , and l always reversed bay parked , so l could exit quickly too.
Please make sure ur carbon monoxide is at correct height as the gas is heavier than air so fills from bottom up. I’m not 100% on that but I read it recently x
I think you have it mixed up with propane, which is heavier than air. CO detectors can go anywhere, because that gas diffuses evenly in the air. I prefer to mount them about face level in the bedroom, because when you feel the effects of exposure, you feel like a lie-down would be a good idea, but it isn't. If it is a combination detector for both propane and CO, please mount that low.
Thermal blinds for the windows are probably best, dont think most vans or caravans were designed for deep winter living. Sleeping on a quilt as well as under one should help, carpet underlay should help too.
The Urban Motorhome do you have any issues with condensation ? great video's,i'm thinking about living full time in a motorhome,so appreciate all the information your giving us mate
I lived in a caravan for two years and condensation was a problem. It would run down the walls. I ended tiling all the interior with floor tiles. And in nooks and crannies i had those throw away dehumidifier tubs. Take every opportunity to leave some ventilation open. The double glazed windows would run with condensation. Morning ritual was to mop it up. But it must have been healthy, the only time i never caught a cold was in the caravan.
Windows are always the biggest heat loss. A thermally lines curtain can improve window performance by upto 30% Buy lined curtains, open them up and put more insulation inside and stitch them back up again. Id look at a non powered desiccant dehumidifier to draw out moisture too. Good vids
I've never been in a motor home, not got a motor home and never been interested in them ! But I love your videos and now think it would be great fun living in one! Cheers
Hi Darren don’t know if you have any but the front windscreen thermal blinds are very good really does keep the heat in I know you have your curtain blinds at the front but the thermal pop on blind would help glen
Hi Glen, now you say it I do have thermal blinds that came with the motorhome, I've not used then after the first time as they took awhile to put them in and was a bit of a pain, they stuck to the window.
Hi great channel I just got my motorhome old 1990 fiat and I did some tests before going solo over this winter to see if I can get it warm! yes the sky vents lose heat so I got a reflective sun screen for summer and cut them to size and use them. helped a lot. And the bed over cab added a 12v electric blanket. works very well and no real drain on battery. hmm i should change my channel lol to vanlife lol. ty for the video
Hi Glen, yeah has been colder for sure, but keeping nice and toastie in the MH, just refilling the bottles as soon as their used so I don't get caught short 😀😀👍👍
Brilliant mate soon be having having nicer weather LPG is the way to going we have 2 11kg gaslow on our MH best thing we did keep up the good blogs keep warm mate glen 👍
Have you considered an electric blanket? Can be as low as 26w so I’m sure your inverter and batteries would barely notice it. I had a similar Truma heating setup to you in a caravan for 2 years - the coldest I saw was -12degC near Coventry. Granted I was on electric but I was using the 3kw gas and 2kw electric at the same time. Shortly after this I decided to try an electric blanket and it was the best decision I ever made. As you say heat rises so lying on top of it all night was a dream. Happy travels 👌👍
There's nothing wrong with crocs 😉 they are the best footwear ever invented I have 7 pairs 👍 and I also love the B+M socks they are great in the winter I couldn't go to work without them on 😉 great little informative vid, safe travels ❤️ Brett n Bec xx
Lololol had to laugh near the end of the video,when you were going on about the flasks and hot water bottles.Top video mate....keep um coming pal top tips
Darren, binge watching in order so sorry if it’s in the next vid, but do you do much cooking in the van if so what sort of stuff. Keep them coming Big Man 😉
You could consider fitting a Webasto heater or similar with a separate diesel tank and get red diesel duty free from a supplier or Canal works (You have to declare that it's for heating only = No duty) trucks use these as night heaters, depends on if its cheaper with gas vs red diesel.
Thanks for the tip on the thermos flask! I haven’t seen your videos before but i will certainly be doing this from now on! I have hot water bottle ready for winter. Wish me luck! 😂
If you have a leisure battery and an inverter you can actually use a normal electric blanket to heat the bed before getting in. It's surprising how little power they use. My double bed blanket has 3 settings. On max it uses 90w but on middle setting only 45w. Only takes about 20 minutes to make a bed warm
Another thing could be an ordinary household electric blanket. These take about 100w, the same as a traditional light bulb, nothing in a house, but still feasable in a van if you have enough battery, particularly if they're topped up by solar panels. Many can be slept on while they remain on, all night, and this ensures a constant warm bed for just 100w power consumption. In amps thats (watts =ampsxvolts), so amps=watts/volts which would be 100w/12v = 8amps. Quite a high draw, but motorhomes usually have plenty of leisure battery power, and nowdays solar panels are commonplace. Alan, Norfolk.
Hi Darren good tips like that 👍 do like the hot water bottle you can’t beat that there’s nothing worse then feeling cold keep your vids coming all the best mate glen
The Urban Motorhome hi Darren it’s going to get colder on Thursday onwards so I’ve been told so plenty of layers on keep warm and safe mate I’ve got 20 Motorhome to get ready for a show in Exeter so not nice outside glen
I had a heater similar to yours, it also had ducted heating distributed around the motorhome. The only problem was that the fan motor drained the battery too quickly and the front of the heater got quite hot which meant I couldn't use the space in front for storage. I ripped the heater out and replaced it with a cheap Chinese night heater and I couldn't be more pleased.
I assume in the cold you would normally be wearing more layers & not just a t-shirt, would save on your gas. That's something that annoys me, when you go into someone's house in the winter & it's like an oven & they're walking around in a t shirt & shorts! Just dress for winter & turn the heater off! Good advice about the smoke & gas alarms though.
never loose your style... #on fire. Made me giggle I am taking my peppa pig hot water bottle to my kip tonight, I dont even live on wheels and I am thinking of buying a thermos what a cracking idea to take it to bed.
I'll try not to haha, got to have a laugh haven't you. Oh yeah I love my thermos for "instant" hot water when I want and need it and don't want to wait 👍🏻👍🏻😃😃😃
I never get cold in my van with the Webasto heater on. When temperatures are going below 5°C, I keep it on 24/7. I don't want my fresh water tank, toilet and shortly a Lithium battery to be freesing and it keeps all humidity nicely out. The Webasto uses some diesel fuel, but the cost is lower compared to burning gas, the heater uses about 1.6 A on electricity. I run an EFOY fuel cell to top up the AGM battery during those cloudy days. Good video, mate!
Do you live in your van all year round? This is the first time I've heard of a fuel cell running on methanol. I didn't know they were available for camper vans. It's an interesting alternative to a petrol generator.
@@RobBottin I got a 190Wp solar on the roof, but during winter days like today when it's very cloudy, the panel produces only a 23W/m2, hardly enough to meet my consumption of energy. That's why I opted for a fuel cell from EFOY that produces 140Ah/day. A fuel cell is not a cheap buy, but silent comfort allways has a price. What makes that extra purchase of an fuel cell on the whole of a nicely equipped van. Offcourse I could go to a campingground and get the electricity a lot cheaper, but my goal is to be 'free'. The fuel cell is only needed during wintertimes and I'm using around 2 canisters of methanol during the winter, that's around 20 liters. Cost are 45€/canister. My homestead is at the English Channel, and a lot of sailboats here are using a fuel cell. That is how I learned the convenience of it, and after 3 years I am still very satisfied with this purchase. Hoping to be of some help, go to efoy.com
Yeah 9/10 I'm toasty as hell with my gas fire, I have had it blow out a few times though and woken up freezing lol. Chris man, your rig sounds like it's rocking! I never even knew about these fuel cells...you've taught me something for sure! I totally get what you mean though when you say you want to be "free",I bought solar and other stuff and people are like why and I'm say exactly the same I want to be free and independent. Cheers mate 👍🏻😃
Great video and very informative my friend. I’m soon going to be new to the world of motorhome life so all the tips and information I can get is all very helpful. Don’t know what type yet but must have fixed bed and room for two Labradors, no wife to worry about so it should turn out to be a peaceful way of life! Been there done that and got the T-shirt, dogs don’t answer back!
Good ideas but I sure if you makes an insulate pack to fit in the top light it will be better than just the blind, I’ve seen it on people living in van conversions.
Yeah your right Kenneth, you can buy them to fit in the gap, never used one to see how effective they are, maybe I should, but the only downside I can see to one is storing it when full timing on the road.
Is an electric blanket a possibility? I remember Slim Potatohead using one. But after than he went for a wood stove. If it uses too much power, maybe it could be programmed with a timer, to come on periodically. Thanks for all your good ideas.
I would not worry about the cold, look after your weight and do plenty of exercise. Losing 50 kg would not do you any harm and may save your life short term.
I have those sliding roof closures, i'm pretty sure they aren't thermally insulated. Better to get some proper thermal foam and put that up against them.
Hi Darren, Love the vids and your channel, could just watch it all day long!! Think you are great bud, keep doing what you do, I think it's fantastic. I don't really feel the cold at all, even in the coldest of winter's I am in a T-shirt, but my goodness do I feel the heat, I feel that I nealy die with the heat, and that's not even in the hight of the Summer, I have even been known to have the aircon on in December at home in the flat, if I was to live full or even part time in a motor home how would I manage and cope?? Could you share your experience on how to keep cool in hot weather, and how to sleep in the motorhome in hot times, I also work night shifts so have to sleep in the day, I think you have spoke a bit about this on someone else's channel, but could you please do a vid on the topic on yours pls?
I enjoy your content, newly subscribed. Reason; You're a genuine guy with information to share, NO fake hype, NO click bait, just you. Keep it up, fantastic!
couldnt agree more
I envy this man so much
@@2487mpobor😮😅😅😅😅
2 winters in the antarctic , taught me thermal long johns , long sleeved t shirts, woolen hat. best base layer ever.
Additional: Put a dehumidifier in the front or seal it off really well. Otherwise, the humidity and heat from the back will build up in the front and *completely wreck* the electronics. 5 years of living in an RV in the States taught me this the hard way.
Immortal SoFar Thank you for that great tip
I was just thinking about the condensation, this is very good advice
Heres a tip for you, and anyone whos watching..buy some greenhouse thermal insulation, cut it to the size of your bed slats (or whatever u have) and lay it on..put your mattress or cushions on top of it and when your in bed at night your body heat wont escape through the bottom of the bed via the cushions as it will reflect back up from the insulation keeping u warm...
@@stephen3654 Nope, ive had it under my mattress for over a year now, no mould and it keeps u toasty during cold nights especially when used in conjunction with a heated blanket...
I must sweat too much as I've found that a mattress will go 'bad' if you stop the airflow under it...
I have recently discovered the centuries old joy of wearing long johns plus thermal top.
My initial reason was to get by with a lighter sleeping bag on camping trips, but I now
wear them at home also. They make a big difference negating unecessary additional heating costs. 👍
Long John's are great in the winter 👍🏻👍🏻
Lovely man , I wish you all the happiness and good health in the world , stay beautiful 🌻
I got homeless and had to live in a fishing bivy during the snow minus 5 i was in propper survival mode and had a rough time of it with condensation you have to get the right mix of cold air with hot air you have to equalise the both i have a flat now and look back at that time it was a great experience in life having nothing living wild.
I was homeless for a while and lived in my car for 2 months. I have a flat now aswell, but it looking back it made me stronger mentally and I learnt a lot about life and who your so called friends are, glad you are ok.
Since you have a decent solar setup (and drive around charging your batteries) get yourself an electric blanket for the bed. Even on their highest setting they only draw around 50W, I use one on low (10-20W) and it will keep you toasty warm with a nice thick duvet on top. Much better than a hot water bottle.
i really love your content also the fact you don't fake it all and don't clean everything up before filming. This is motorhome reality
What a clever articulate genuine real nice guy. The kind I chose for friendship.
I don’t even own a Motorhome but just found your vids the last couple of days and just really enjoy watching 😊 keep up the good work chap
Very informative vlog.
As a class 1 trucker for the last 30 years I've had a few winter night's out on the even stuck for 3 nights on the M8...lol
Well done chap keep them coming.
As I said before it's good to find someone that speaks about thing straight without any bullshit editing or trying to be cocky about it.
Nice job.
Rob
Cheers Rob, glad you liked it 👍🏻😃
class 1?
is that CDL grade? cause I'm skeptical if you're driving a class 1 vehicle..... it's remotely possible but I've never heard of it.
me? I'm just a sad sod that got rejected from being allowed to operate class 9 vehicles in a CDL class A distinction.
@@thevashfan12392
A Class 1 truck is an articulated lorry in the U.K.
or in America it’s referred to as a semi.
I have wild camped in a motorhome over Xmas / NY period in the north of Scotland many times, the most important thing is to stay out of the wind as the chill factor will be 2-3 times as much as the nominal air temperature. Secondly its good to have a well insulated vehicle, the few makes that are made in Scandinavia have floor and wall heating which makes all the difference. Apart from that I would say make sure you have some light thermal underwear and a good thermal duvet, if you have those and unless its -10C plus, you probably won't need the heating on through the night.
With no heating in my van my saviour is an electric blanket, they don't take much power, 30 - 50 watts for a single that's enough to heat the centre of a double bed. I've survived winter nights with ice on the inside of the van thanks to that blanket!
Wow with what temperature?
@@Priest92 as low as minus 10c outside. But hell getting out of bed!
Respect to you, when I move to my motorhome full time, hopeing to spend the winters in Spain/Portugal.
Oh that will be wicked mate, you'll have a great time
@@TheUrbanMotorhome your a top lad really like your channel mate do you live in England if so where abouts also what is your name mate?
Same. Picking up my van this week
How are you finding it?
In my van now -1degrees. Rigged a double Duck maybe Goose(can’t remember)down quilt between the cab and the back,no draughts. Truma heater on half heat no 5, gas only as off grid. Toasty warm in a tee shirt and track suit bottoms.
Couple of long socks, filled with cat litter, superb humidifiers
Karl Walduck Interesting, how does this work?
@@CW-ms1bh the cat litter absorbs the moisture exceptionally well
That's a very good idea 👍
Didn’t work for me 😢
Honestly, man. I love your videos. You make me feel very cozy!
Bro 100% agree makes me want the winter here asap to get the winter gear out
Love watching your videos Darren " funny guy but very interesting topics on living full time ' can't get enough of you as looking into doing full time with the wife .
Keep up the good work buddy 👍.
For my odd weekend in the van in the winter I made a heated blanket I got a few packs of heating fabric strips meant for putting in jackets I think. Sewed them into a blanket and have 2 solar power charging units 1 lasts 4-6 hours and it's not overly hot but enough to so you freezing
I have to say, you are one of the best vlogger mate. I watched I think all of your videos because they are infirmative and no bollox like 99 percent of youtubers. I have started to look at motorhomes as our swb master is not enough for long term camping and trips. I was especially curious about winter camping and ski trips but unfortunally havent seen anyone doing video how to winterise van for winter camping rather then staying warm. Would you be able to do it? I guess you have loads of other van lifers around you and you could come up with video about it. Cheers buddy! Keep it up!
Love your sense of humour 😂 Wish I had the nerve to get out of this rat race - but at least now I've found your channel I can watch someone who has actually done it - thank you!
Think of it as your life story book, end one chapter start a new one, best thing I ever did take control of your own life, if you think of it in economic terms you'll never change.
Great insight from someone on the front line .
Thanks 😃👍🏻
Loved this video! Well done you! No bull crap just honest advice. Thank you loved it.
Great tips buddy. Getting the van ready for three weeks in the alps this winter.
Well you are on a roll , for the sky lights get a piece if celotex or kingspan cut to size a put above blind works beyond amazing
I have seen ones you can buy, I might look into making one that can break down in size, that the only reason I've not bought one because of storing it somewhere all the time will be a pain, good to know they work really well though
Just get a big chap like you in your motorhome, got to add a decent amount of heat.
If it’s not enough just get him doing some press-ups. Soon be ‘toasty warm’.
Yep hahaha, instead of just being lazy sitting in your cheir, why not just doing sittups instead to get warm.
love your out look on life...never down on camera. good video xx
Great tips mate! We're making mental notes here. lol. Thanks for sharing. Great video. 👍
Stay warm my friend.
Enjoying your video:)
Hi, Just discovered your channel and binge watching. Great stuff please keep them coming.
ve your down to earth off the cuff presentation style. Your a legend mate. Thanks
As carbon dioxide is heavier than air (density of air is approx 1.22kg/cubic metre - Co2 1.61 kg/cubic metre) your co2 monitor should be close to the floor not at ceiling height. That way you will get a much earlier warning if you have a co2 problem.
CO2 is carbon dioxide, the stuff thats added to Cherry Pepsi Max to make it fizzy. We breathe it out and plants breathe it in.
Do you mean carbon *monoxide*? That is a little LIGHTER than air, so the recommended placement of a CO detector at about shoulder/head height is correct.
Love your videos and your happy go lucky approach to life 👏🏻👏🏻
When l lived in a van ( for a year, Inc The Beast from the East ) l simply wore triple layers , and made my bed with six double duvets folded , 3 below and 3 above , much cheaper than all that thermal , and l replaced them every 6 weeks , because we shed and sweat in bed. I always wanted to look out , at all times , and l always reversed bay parked , so l could exit quickly too.
2010 colder minus 16 river foze river calder lancashire
You really have inspired me to follow my dream. Thank you for all your videos so glad I found your Chanel
Please make sure ur carbon monoxide is at correct height as the gas is heavier than air so fills from bottom up. I’m not 100% on that but I read it recently x
Yeah your right, that's why all gas boxes for the bottle have holes in them for the gas the "fall out" as it sinks because it's heavier than air.
I think you have it mixed up with propane, which is heavier than air. CO detectors can go anywhere, because that gas diffuses evenly in the air. I prefer to mount them about face level in the bedroom, because when you feel the effects of exposure, you feel like a lie-down would be a good idea, but it isn't. If it is a combination detector for both propane and CO, please mount that low.
Another great video, well done
So glad we discovered your channel as your videos are so interesting. You have a lovely cosy set up in your van.
Thermal blinds for the windows are probably best, dont think most vans or caravans were designed for deep winter living. Sleeping on a quilt as well as under one should help, carpet underlay should help too.
The Urban Motorhome do you have any issues with condensation ? great video's,i'm thinking about living full time in a motorhome,so appreciate all the information your giving us mate
I lived in a caravan for two years and condensation was a problem. It would run down the walls.
I ended tiling all the interior with floor tiles. And in nooks and crannies i had those throw away dehumidifier tubs. Take every opportunity to leave some ventilation open. The double glazed windows would run with condensation. Morning ritual was to mop it up.
But it must have been healthy, the only time i never caught a cold was in the caravan.
My brother your body is perfectly adopted for winter. BTW great video.
Heya bro, not sure how I ended up on this channel but I'm actually enjoying it, keep it up bud !
Thanks Dillon
Windows are always the biggest heat loss. A thermally lines curtain can improve window performance by upto 30% Buy lined curtains, open them up and put more insulation inside and stitch them back up again.
Id look at a non powered desiccant dehumidifier to draw out moisture too.
Good vids
I've never been in a motor home, not got a motor home and never been interested in them ! But I love your videos and now think it would be great fun living in one! Cheers
It is an amazing experience 😊 my wife and i have been traveling for 8 months now..truly amazing!
Hi Darren don’t know if you have any but the front windscreen thermal blinds are very good really does keep the heat in I know you have your curtain blinds at the front but the thermal pop on blind would help glen
Hi Glen, now you say it I do have thermal blinds that came with the motorhome, I've not used then after the first time as they took awhile to put them in and was a bit of a pain, they stuck to the window.
I use an electric blanket,sometimes as a rug on the floor and on the bed , the 1 I got only uses 60 watts
Hi great channel I just got my motorhome old 1990 fiat and I did some tests before going solo over this winter to see if I can get it warm! yes the sky vents lose heat so I got a reflective sun screen for summer and cut them to size and use them. helped a lot. And the bed over cab added a 12v electric blanket. works very well and no real drain on battery. hmm i should change my channel lol to vanlife lol. ty for the video
Heat sucking love it man nice job mate 👍👍
Any of your videos explore why you choose this way of living, seems to be a great fit for you.
Hi Darren hope you are ok keep warm mate it’s getting colder Glen
Hi Glen, yeah has been colder for sure, but keeping nice and toastie in the MH, just refilling the bottles as soon as their used so I don't get caught short 😀😀👍👍
Brilliant mate soon be having having nicer weather LPG is the way to going we have 2 11kg gaslow on our MH best thing we did keep up the good blogs keep warm mate glen 👍
@@mrmrst9020 Oh mate that's gonna be plenty and keep you going ages, cheers Glen
Have you considered an electric blanket? Can be as low as 26w so I’m sure your inverter and batteries would barely notice it. I had a similar Truma heating setup to you in a caravan for 2 years - the coldest I saw was -12degC near Coventry. Granted I was on electric but I was using the 3kw gas and 2kw electric at the same time. Shortly after this I decided to try an electric blanket and it was the best decision I ever made. As you say heat rises so lying on top of it all night was a dream. Happy travels 👌👍
It sounds alot more economical!
There's nothing wrong with crocs 😉 they are the best footwear ever invented I have 7 pairs 👍 and I also love the B+M socks they are great in the winter I couldn't go to work without them on 😉 great little informative vid, safe travels ❤️ Brett n Bec xx
Yes to all of the above.BUT please don't tell me you wear your socks up to your knees with crocs.that is an offence.lol
@@bigmac7228 😂😂😂 Brilliant 😂😂😂
Haha crocs are the best! Them BM socks are soooooo warm it's crazy, cheers 👍🏻😊
@@TheUrbanMotorhome keep the videos coming butty 👍
Crocs are the best footwear ever invented, I also have a few pairs...
Lololol had to laugh near the end of the video,when you were going on about the flasks and hot water bottles.Top video mate....keep um coming pal top tips
Cheers Paul 👍🏻😃
Darren, binge watching in order so sorry if it’s in the next vid, but do you do much cooking in the van if so what sort of stuff. Keep them coming Big Man 😉
I also shut off the vents in the cab as you can feel cold air coming through them
Good tip mate
Man, i smoked 2 joints and this was funny
Get a front cover for your front screen..tailor maid do the best because there thick and look good.. No condensation in the front of your unit
You could consider fitting a Webasto heater or similar with a separate diesel tank and get red diesel duty free from a supplier or Canal works (You have to declare that it's for heating only = No duty) trucks use these as night heaters, depends on if its cheaper with gas vs red diesel.
Thanks for the tip on the thermos flask! I haven’t seen your videos before but i will certainly be doing this from now on! I have hot water bottle ready for winter. Wish me luck! 😂
mosy swedish caravand have floorheating. nice and toasty regardless of temperature....
great tips, thanks Dazza!!
Up stairs.heat sucking floor.you the man great video well done.👍🍺🇬🇧
If you have a leisure battery and an inverter you can actually use a normal electric blanket to heat the bed before getting in. It's surprising how little power they use. My double bed blanket has 3 settings. On max it uses 90w but on middle setting only 45w. Only takes about 20 minutes to make a bed warm
Good quality Merino wool, tops, leggings and socks does the trick, all through the winter months.
Enjoying your vlogs bud. Keep up the good work.
cheers mate
Another thing could be an ordinary household electric blanket. These take about 100w, the same as a traditional light bulb, nothing in a house, but still feasable in a van if you have enough battery, particularly if they're topped up by solar panels. Many can be slept on while they remain on, all night, and this ensures a constant warm bed for just 100w power consumption. In amps thats (watts =ampsxvolts), so amps=watts/volts which would be 100w/12v = 8amps. Quite a high draw, but motorhomes usually have plenty of leisure battery power, and nowdays solar panels are commonplace. Alan, Norfolk.
Hi Darren good tips like that 👍 do like the hot water bottle you can’t beat that there’s nothing worse then feeling cold keep your vids coming all the best mate glen
Cheers Glen glad you liked them. Totally agree mate, being cold sucks...I mean proper sucks haha 👍🏻😊
The Urban Motorhome hi Darren it’s going to get colder on Thursday onwards so I’ve been told so plenty of layers on keep warm and safe mate I’ve got 20 Motorhome to get ready for a show in Exeter so not nice outside glen
This is brilliant mate
Great vid mate looks cold really nice mate don🤠🇬🇧👍👌👌
I had a heater similar to yours, it also had ducted heating distributed around the motorhome. The only problem was that the fan motor drained the battery too quickly and the front of the heater got quite hot which meant I couldn't use the space in front for storage.
I ripped the heater out and replaced it with a cheap Chinese night heater and I couldn't be more pleased.
Install a diesel heater..there cheap versions out there and there very warm...brother got one for his mh..very good.
Rob your getting better
I assume in the cold you would normally be wearing more layers & not just a t-shirt, would save on your gas.
That's something that annoys me, when you go into someone's house in the winter & it's like an oven & they're walking around in a t shirt & shorts!
Just dress for winter & turn the heater off!
Good advice about the smoke & gas alarms though.
Thoroughly nice fella
Your a diamond and funny! Keep up the good work 👊
12volt blanket or car seat cover is amazing
never loose your style... #on fire. Made me giggle I am taking my peppa pig hot water bottle to my kip tonight, I dont even live on wheels and I am thinking of buying a thermos what a cracking idea to take it to bed.
I'll try not to haha, got to have a laugh haven't you. Oh yeah I love my thermos for "instant" hot water when I want and need it and don't want to wait 👍🏻👍🏻😃😃😃
I never get cold in my van with the Webasto heater on. When temperatures are going below 5°C, I keep it on 24/7.
I don't want my fresh water tank, toilet and shortly a Lithium battery to be freesing and it keeps all humidity nicely out.
The Webasto uses some diesel fuel, but the cost is lower compared to burning gas, the heater uses about 1.6 A on electricity.
I run an EFOY fuel cell to top up the AGM battery during those cloudy days.
Good video, mate!
Do you live in your van all year round? This is the first time I've heard of a fuel cell running on methanol. I didn't know they were available for camper vans. It's an interesting alternative to a petrol generator.
@@RobBottin I got a 190Wp solar on the roof, but during winter days like today when it's very cloudy, the panel produces only a 23W/m2, hardly enough to meet my consumption of energy. That's why I opted for a fuel cell from EFOY that produces 140Ah/day.
A fuel cell is not a cheap buy, but silent comfort allways has a price. What makes that extra purchase of an fuel cell on the whole of a nicely equipped van. Offcourse I could go to a campingground and get the electricity a lot cheaper, but my goal is to be 'free'. The fuel cell is only needed during wintertimes and I'm using around 2 canisters of methanol during the winter, that's around 20 liters. Cost are 45€/canister.
My homestead is at the English Channel, and a lot of sailboats here are using a fuel cell. That is how I learned the convenience of it, and after 3 years I am still very satisfied with this purchase.
Hoping to be of some help, go to efoy.com
@@christee2908 Thanks for the reply.
Yeah 9/10 I'm toasty as hell with my gas fire, I have had it blow out a few times though and woken up freezing lol. Chris man, your rig sounds like it's rocking! I never even knew about these fuel cells...you've taught me something for sure! I totally get what you mean though when you say you want to be "free",I bought solar and other stuff and people are like why and I'm say exactly the same I want to be free and independent. Cheers mate 👍🏻😃
👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻thanks mate stay warm and safe 👍🏻😎👍🏻
Great video and very informative my friend. I’m soon going to be new to the world of motorhome life so all the tips and information I can get is all very helpful. Don’t know what type yet but must have fixed bed and room for two Labradors, no wife to worry about so it should turn out to be a peaceful way of life! Been there done that and got the T-shirt, dogs don’t answer back!
Happy to help mate, haha you're gonna love the motorhome life mate,if you need anymore help feel free to give me a shout, happy to help where I can 😃👍
Thanks bro for this video just looking at Same one for me and kids help me out loads this videos thank you
Your welcome mate 👍
Good ideas but I sure if you makes an insulate pack to fit in the top light it will be better than just the blind, I’ve seen it on people living in van conversions.
Yeah your right Kenneth, you can buy them to fit in the gap, never used one to see how effective they are, maybe I should, but the only downside I can see to one is storing it when full timing on the road.
Is an electric blanket a possibility? I remember Slim Potatohead using one. But after than he went for a wood stove. If it uses too much power, maybe it could be programmed with a timer, to come on periodically.
Thanks for all your good ideas.
Wearing crocs is like getting head off a man, it feels good until you look down.
Lamo
LMFAO! 🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣
J Harvey 🤣 best comment Of the year so far👊👊
Well im sure most men including me will have to take your word on that...
J Harvey ) you sick puppy
I would not worry about the cold, look after your weight and do plenty of exercise.
Losing 50 kg would not do you any harm and may save your life short term.
Hi mate just wanted to know what weight limit is for over cab bed av got a bessiccar e785 and am 19 stone ? Thanks for reply in advance
You make me laugh mate great videos inspiring me to start the van life
Thanks mate 👍😁
How do you keep water and sewage from freezing? If you use antifreeze can you still shower with the water?
Because I'm combat ready, cracked me up.
Really helpful mate!
Great video. Where did you buy the blackout blinds?
Hi love your channel. What solar/battery setup have you got. Sorry if you've already said.
Thanks mate 😁
Here's a link to my solar setup that keeps me off grid full time - th-cam.com/video/RUeiTvdAeQY/w-d-xo.html
Try wrapping a towel around your hot water bottle and in the morning it will still be warm and you will still have a warm towel.
I have those sliding roof closures, i'm pretty sure they aren't thermally insulated. Better to get some proper thermal foam and put that up against them.
Do not try to attempt this in Maine.You will freeze to death on the first night! -:) Nice video.
Living full time in campervan How do you manage with address for driving licence etc?
What if you get a speeding fine for example
Parents/friends/family addresses...
A staffy is grate to keep your feet warm
Hi Darren, Love the vids and your channel, could just watch it all day long!! Think you are great bud, keep doing what you do, I think it's fantastic.
I don't really feel the cold at all, even in the coldest of winter's I am in a T-shirt, but my goodness do I feel the heat, I feel that I nealy die with the heat, and that's not even in the hight of the Summer, I have even been known to have the aircon on in December at home in the flat, if I was to live full or even part time in a motor home how would I manage and cope??
Could you share your experience on how to keep cool in hot weather, and how to sleep in the motorhome in hot times, I also work night shifts so have to sleep in the day, I think you have spoke a bit about this on someone else's channel, but could you please do a vid on the topic on yours pls?
Awesome video thank you