Easy no build van - 2021 Ram Promaster
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 6 ก.พ. 2025
- I recently purchased an empty 2021 Ram Promaster 2500 EXT 159 wheelbase cargo van to create a comfortable no build conversion for now.
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IKEA Links:
Kitchen/prep sink
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Bed Rail
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Bed slats
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I might do a no build because i like the idea of less stuff =less breaking down. No plumbing =no plumbing issues. No electricity =no electrical issues. So i might just get a van and have my dad help me insulate floor, walls and ceiling and then put cool furniture from the thrift store. No need to spend thousands. People are paying 100k for some of this fully built out vans which is just nuts because this is supposed to be the cheaper alternative to actual housing.
I love this set up all you need to get started. Upgrade as you go. Not all of us were born with a silver spoon that can drop 150k every 2: years on a new van build.
I think this is the best way to approach it. What all these channels have forgot. Its not about showing off how much you dropped $$ on a van build. But how & where you go with your van. Its about not being tied down to 1 area. Roaming free & exploring & enjoying it, with the bare minimal.
This is so amazing. I'm always looking at grand builds thinking people waste all their space and make it so crowded. This is perfect, beautiful, and rational. I love it!
Thanks so much for watching and sharing your thoughts :-) I was going for flexible efficiency and love that I have the ability to change things on the fly when I decide something doesn’t work as well as I thought it would in one specific location :-).
Now THIS is the van build video for me.
I want to continue living rent free and don't know the difference between a hammer and screwdriver. Thank you.
😂♥️. Thanks for tuning in and commenting!
Great start.
A lady in one of Bob Wells' videos said she learned the most by actually being out there and is adjusting as she goes.
That’s what I’m thinking. Never having lived in a van I can only go on how other people arrange them, but I might find my needs are totally different. I’m sure I will rearrange and tweak MANY times before I know exactly what I want :-)
This setup is very impressive for a "no build" setup. Your ingenuity is admirable.
Thank you but I can’t take credit for all of it. I learned a lot watching other creators as well :-)
I have owned 5 vans over many years and have preferred to keep my van fully capable of doing anything. I have insulated and skinned the floor, walls, and ceiling with cabinet grade plywood. All of my camper furniture I have built to be modular and can be easily taken out if I want the full cargo option. If I want to carry additional passengers the removable rear bench seat can be used. My wife and I van camp many times during the summer and using plastic totes can simply store under the bed platform. Throw rugs can be easily taken out shaken off and boom done. I like the minimal and uncluttered interior because nature and the outdoors becomes our living space .
My have no windows! I have a fan on top of the van and planning to put a second one. I can open the Fan on top anytime and anywhere i am if is not raining, also the fans is like skylight you can see the inside all the time. For a woman I feel more protected this way
Keeping it simple makes for the best travel!
I considered a second fan too :-)
Yep, nice to know someone else isn't about luxury......
Great for a first build. ❤❤❤
There's a LOT to be said for keeping it simple. Your van is an elegant example of that. Avoiding the temptation to completely build it out right away is smarter, more efficient, and cost effective. I did course amounts of measuring, drawing to scale, researching dimensions of different products, etc., but still kept my (SUV) build-out super simple. Yet, I feel the are things I should've done differently. Sometimes you just have to live it and feel it, before you "know it".
I like your home on wheels.
Thank you so much for watching and sharing your thoughts :-). What you say is soooo true! I’ve only had it a short time and am already changing a few things!
May I make a suggestion, I didn’t notice a fire extinguisher.i have known so many vans, and not just vans for that matter, vehicles, big rigs that catch fire for whatever reason. Please get one if you can, you may not only save your stuff but your life and perhaps be of help to others if need be. I pack in all my vehicles now, please be safe out there. Happy travels 🚐
Thank you for watching and for the great suggestion! I always had one in my little camper and just didn’t even think about it for the van. Excellent comment, I’ll definitely be adding it!
Your welcome, I’m happy to know you will get one. It’s piece of mind to have one and also knowing how it operates.I work as an HEO, surprisingly none of my colleagues pack an extinguisher in their vehicles, boats, or rv’s and yet they are mandatory in our equipment. So ya, I just don’t get people sometimes.I keep mine just behind the two seats in my rig on a heavy bungy chord with a ball on it about the size of a golf ball if I need it quickly I can grab at the chord and if it’s a sloppy grip I should be able to get a good enough grip when the ball reaches my thumb and index finger, or if I’m lucky enough I’ll be able to just grab the ball on the end, the extinguisher is in a plumbing tube to hold it securely till needed. Something to know about an engine fire is this:never open the hood to extinguish an engine fire, when the hood is opened then there is a sudden rush of oxygen which will feed the flames if they are present, if it’s only smoke at this point it could suddenly ignite( that’s when things could take a very bad turn) get down under the vehicle between the front wheel and the wheel well, by this I mean down on one knee or squatting down (don’t actually crawl under the vehicle), extinguish in spurts into the engine compartment pointing the flow from the ground upwards. It’s intimidating as heck, but of course use your discretion, if there’s flames be very quick with your decisions, don’t risk life or limb.with all that said all the best to you and many safe travels🚐@@TinyTexanAdventures
Thanks so much for the input and explanation! I have since added an extinguisher to my van! Thanks for making me safer :-)
Yes, it happens and bestvto be safe!
Absolutely!
You’re set! I admire that you just bit-the-bullet and bought the van and are making do. Way to go. It will be a slow build, but it will be just what you want. The max air fan will be much appreciated when you get it.
Thank you 😊. The temps are pretty great right now, but I’m definitely looking forward to having the maxxair and windows pretty soon.
Wow. Neat. I'm 81 and that looks very doable even for me. You go, girl!
This comment right here is EXACTLY why I wanted to share this journey!! I know so many people who want to travel and explore but may not have a huge budget or need a completely converted van. Thank you for watching and commenting ❤️
I like your no build build because it clearly indicates what is necessary to have a good start as a nomad. One item you will find absolutely necessary quickly is an excellent two way ceiling fan to move hot air out and fresh air in you van. Second you will find it necessary to deal with condensation to be comfortable in all seasons. As well it is common to use easy to clean linoleum for flooring over a sub floor to deal with everything bad that happens from a cold steel floor. You have a great start to your new house! Wish you well.
Thanks for tuning in and the positive feedback :-). I have plans for a maxx air fan and bunk windows (for cross venting) in the next month or so. After that comes the sound deadening and insulation:-). I have a few dehumidifiers I use in the meantime to help with any condensation. I haven’t decided on my floor yet so I currently just have the black factory mat and carpeting. That will be a later decision for sure with the other projects being my priority until :-). Again, thanks for your comment and input as this is definitely a learning experience and I’m a sponge lol.
I don't 18 Wheeler over the road for a few years. If you can find a junk yard that has wrecked big rigs in it, there's so many cool cabinets that would fit perfectly in your van.
Ahhh that’s an interesting idea! I never would’ve thought of something like that :-). Thanks for sharing 😊
Fantastic idea. "They" say to start out with what you have & build once you know what you need. Good for you. Great build-out so far.
Thanks for watching and commenting:-). I have the benefit of watching so many others go before me and their advice to assess my needs as I go, not to assume them before I ever spent a night in the van. I’m loving my little work in progress and learning so much along the way :-)
It's so nice to see a promaster van without a full kitchen counter that you'd see in a house. I enjoyed seeing your van. God bless you and your family 🙏
Thank you for watching and commenting:-). Blessings right backatcha:-)
Very impressive! I like that you didn't fight the metal sort-of industrial look, and put all those pics in black frames along the upper walls. May I suggest white duct tape over all the holes in the framing of the van. I did that and it makes a big difference. 4 years later and they are still sticking!
Thank you for tuning in, and I’ve never thought of the tape! I bet it’s a cleaner look for sure :-)
That looks so good!! Very impressed. You have everything you need. Love that kitchen station and easy water system. Would appreciate it if you could post approximate costs so far and as you go. Interested in what kind of budget I'll need when I get ready to do the same. Get back on the road and have fun!
Will do. I’ll add it up as I go :-). ❤️.
What type of floor covering did you do
Great video! Love the simplicity. I’m not even sure I would do anything else to it if it was mine lol.
So warm and inviting, thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching and commenting:-). I really enjoyed the look of the open walls VERY much but now that I have the insulation in I am pretty happy with the sound deadening and climate control assistance it offers since I am full time.
I lived in my 2019 high top 2500 RAM cargo van for three years throughout the Pandemic. Then I moved onto my beautiful forested mountain acre which I have developed into a year-round home base. After all I learned during Vanlife living tiny off grid has been a piece of cake! I've been getting an increasing amount of "van build/ van life videos" lately. They are reminding me that I can get right back out there and enjoy good weather and beautiful sunsets in the SW desert instead of shoveling snow whenever I am ready. It's a good feeling! I never did build out my van, and I'm glad because the interior has always been able to fluctuate with my changing needs and now that I have a couple dogs (and dont have to carry everything I own) I'm starting all over again with new improved "no-build" ideas thanks to all the inspiration I get from TH-camrs! ❤
Sounds like you know exactly what you are doing and will have your versatile no build just the way it works for you ♥️. I think someday if/when I do go back to a home base I will still want the ability to jump on the road too ♥️. Safe travels out there. Thanks for watching and commenting.
😳 You’ve given me hope. I’ll never have $150,000. I’d buy land if I had money. I don’t want to travel as I can r drive long distances anymore after a Semi merged on top of my little Kia Spectra almost killing me. I have pretty bad PTSD (diagnosed, I went to therapy for 2 years after the Crash) But I’d like a van to just park and live in. I never thought about doing a no build in a stand up van! I’ve thought about buying (after saving) just a old minivan, but not being able to stand bothered me. I really love how yours is set up 😊
I'm kind of surprised you don't have 150k after almost being killed by a semi. So sorry! But I agree with your thoughts on standing up straight in a camper van ... A must!
So good! Especially for those who want to take it slow and still get out on adventures! I love how each person can do builds in their own way that meets their needs. Thank you for the inspo!!!❤
Thanks for tuning in and that’s exactly what I was thinking. I’ve seen wonderful build outs that took 6 months to a year to complete and I didn’t want to wait to start traveling again. This way I get to see what I like (and don’t like) and can adjust many times until I have exactly what meets my particular needs in the end.
I really like the IKEA sink with counter space. Very nice. Makes much more sense than a heavy kitchen cabinet with doors on it. I would just cover the under sink part with fabric or something easy like that.
Thank you 😊. I do have fabric to cover it (at least partially) and under the bed, I just haven’t taken the time to do it yet 😊. Thinking a little fabric velcro and viola! lol. Thanks for watching and commenting ♥️
I love all the magnetic things! That is a great reason to leave the walls free of finish. I love it!
Yes! I had no idea there were so much magnetic options lol. My wish list looks ridiculous 🤣🤣
I love the simplicity of your van great job and great video
Thanks so much for tuning in and for the positive feedback:-)
You have inspired me to keep it simple, enjoy traveling, and build out as money allows. Obviously this current setup won't be 100% comfortable all the time, but boy...you've put together a great setup! Congratulations!
Thank you so much for watching and sharing your positive comments:-). My van is far from perfect, but I am currently camped with a lake just outside my door instead of waiting 6-12months to build it out first. Best wishes on your journey:-)
Very nice… you are smart to not spend a lot of money on a depreciating asset. 👍👍❤. Less things to break when you keep it simple
That Ikea sink stand is really smart for a no build solution. When you build everything out, it should be easy to unload.
Thank you 😊. Exactly and it doesn’t really add much weight in the meantime.
I had a Very nice Chevy van but decided I wanted a HR so I can Stand Up. I am 6' male and even with insulated floor and ceiling I still have headroom. I want to access the rear doors so bed is lengthwise behind driver Seat a pass seat swivels - Game Changer! Really opens the living space! I am solo traveler so I don't need Big Bed. I keep my Expensive bicycle inside the Van and since the focus of my trips are bike rides I don't want to pack down into garage, I keep it ready to ride in my "hallway" I don't like bike outside? Dirty, theft ect but also can access the rear doors easily? I learn that from my 1st van.
Very nice! I definitely want a swivel seat on the passenger side and will eventually do that too :-) The floor plan sounds like a perfect fit for your needs. I may orient the bed differently at some point just because I can and love rearranging lol.
for a 'no build, van build' it's great, gives me food for thought for sure
That kitchen setup is impressive...brought your bed with you....great move!!!
Thank you and thanks for watching 😊. The goal for the kitchen was to keep it pretty inexpensive but still very functional :-). I got so many good ideas from other TH-camrs out there!! Ha on the bed, that was a must for zzzzz lol
Oh my heavens I am so obsessed with your sink station!!! I absolutely love your van!!! Awesome job!! ❤💯❤️🔥🙌🏼💯✌🏼
Thanks so much for watching, and for your positive feedback♥️! The kitchen set up has definitely been working great so far and it’s lightweight and temporary enough that I can move it whenever and wherever I want :-)
This is nicer than a lot of finished vans. :)
♥️ What a nice thing to say! Thank you 😊
❤One of if not the best no-build build have ever seen. Awesome job. Travel safe and be happy😁
Aw thank you 😊. I think it will provide a different kind of freedom for the kind of travel I want to do :-)
A very down to earth video, good for you doing it at your own pace.
Thank you 😊 and thanks for tuning in.
That soft rubbery shelf liner stuff is good for putting in between your glass bowls or pans you don’t want scratched up
Ohh that’s a great idea AND I just happen to have some on hand! My sister is actually making me some thing to use, but in the meantime, I’m absolutely taking that suggestion!
What IS the rubbery looking flooring? I like it!
@cassandramr6675 it is the mat that comes with a new van. Mine just happened to still have it :-)
This is fantastic for anyone who is longing for a campervan but can't afford to fork out $ 80k - $200k for one already built out, or an additional $10-$30k to build it out yourself. Like you said, you can get on the road, at least in warmer climates, and then build it out slowly over time. I absolutely love what you have done! Another advantage is that you will be able to really take your time with your build, and I bet that will result in you ending up with exactly what you want, no regrets. Plus, you will likely save money by taking your time and being able to look for bargains without having to rush and settle due to a tight timeline. Thank you so much for sharing! This is truly inspiring! ❤
Thank you so much for tuning in and for such positive feedback 😊. I know it’s not for everyone, but I also know I can’t be the only one wanting to get started that doesn’t have a massive budget to start with :-)
A solid start to your new home 😊 Though I am really pleased to hear that you plan, in due course, to insulate and will have windows and a fan for ventilation. I know this stuff can be very costly, but I always worry about people either baking or freezing in their vehicles when they don't have them.
They are both absolutely on my list in the next month or 2 :-). Thanks for tuning in and for the feedback:-)
I really enjoyed your video. So refreshing after watching videos of mega van builds. I love your approach of just getting out there and doing it first! No time like the present!
I like this setup very easy and convenient for 1st timers so you can get a feel for what you need and want and where you want things permanently if you do a build out I like the van without cabinets and the sink and prep area is nice happy travels
Thanks for tuning in and commenting ♥️. It has been helpful to me for sure to have the flexibility to change things around when I change my mind or find things that work more efficiently for me. Have a great day.
You're more organized
than you think.
Nice!
Thanks for watching and commenting :-). It’s a work in progress!!
Very neat! Thanks because I want to get started with no build items.
Thanks for tuning in 😊. I hope you found a few things you might want to use for yours. If you have additional suggestions, please feel free to share them :-)
The sink is genius and lightweight; best for gas mileage. Love your ideas! Safe travels and best to you.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting:-). Simple was the name of the game for my initial start up. :-)
❤❤❤ This fellow Texan LOVES what you have done!! 🎉❤ You're showing us newby's how slick and quick we can get on the road with very little money! Thanks a million!! ❤
♥️ I’m so glad! I’ve made changes/additions since the video, but I’m taking it slow and enjoying the adventures out there. Best of luck to you!
This is a beautiful no build build! I love it!
Thank you! 😊
Look into using XPS foam instead of wood for building up some structure in your van! I watched a video on that recently and it seems like a great idea for people who aren't wood working experts! It works as insulation too.
Thumbs UP! Thank you for sharing. I've been watching van and RV videos for several years and this is the best no build I've seen.I want a long wheelbase Promaster with windows and insulation and a minimalist build to allow for any configuration that the mood desires and to change with the seasons. Enjoy your awesome ride and may you be blessed with many travels and great health to do so...
Thank you so much for watching and for the positive feedback ❤️. Good luck on your van search and safe travels.
This is exactly where I'll be starting. Currently in a house with a Subaru Outback for camping (I commented on your car camper vid) but this is my plan for the future. Family obligations have me grounded for now, but travel nursing from a set up just like this to start out and gradually build is my dream and retirement plan. Love the laundry bag! Other than aesthetics, I'm failing to see how the 150K builds are any better. You have all you need. Insulation is eventually going to be a thing I'm sure, and that's honestly about all you're missing...it just doesn't look Instagram (fake) pretty. It also doesn't look like a ton of crappy cluttered messes I've seen either. It's just...real.
Your home is so Practical. You have everything.
Thank you. I know I’ll make changes as I go, but definitely loving it so far ♥️. Thanks for tuning in.
The Ikea bed rails - Genius!
They work great! Lots of Van lifers go that route :-)
You did a great job with your "no build". It will give you a chance to test things out as you travel, enjoy your adventures!
Yes!! That’s definitely the plan! I’m sure I’ll rearrange many times before finding the perfect set up, but this way I can figure that out while still getting to experience new places at the same time ❤️
Thank you for showing us!!
You have NO IDEA how convenient this information is for me. Im planning on doing the exact same thing!!! Only that I am preparing to do some insulation and sort of wood floor and such. But thats all. It would be pretty much similar to what you set up there but with insulation. Thanks and congrats!!
Thank you for watching and commenting 😊. I’ll be installing my sound deadener and insulation this week (video prob next week), but I’m digging it being so nice and open right now for sure! Good luck to you on your build and safe travels :-)
insulation with super strong magnetic no welding or drilling
Excellent. Very well organized and efficient.
Just buy some thin bubble wrap and place between each bowl. They won't raddle anymore and you can keep your bowls. Looking forward to more videos
Thank you 😊. Great idea on the bubble wrap! I’m looking into that for sure ❤️
@@TinyTexanAdventures Or just use your spare teatowels, dish cloths.
We place napkins between our crockery and use them when we eat. Then wipe the crockery and cutlery with it before washing up. Then we pack it away with fresh napkins ready for the next meal.
I bought 2014 Promaster in 2017. Started using it right away w just an air mattress and have been upgrading it as I go. Keep it simple! Use things u already have! Folding tables, futon bed, Computer Hutch all fit perfect! Rather than custom build shelves cabinets I just modified things I already had? I use rechargeable led lights w magnets do I didn't have to run wires anywhere? Custom VA s are Gorgeous and they shud be proud but minezsas ez a d I cud use it as is while I build it!
Yes!!! I’m definitely not knocking the people who have the beautiful already converted vans, it just wasn’t in the budget for me. I too am enjoying the ease of doing it as I go, and having the flexibility to change my mind as many times as I want :-)
I absolutely love the no build and this is the way I plan to go later this year. You mentioned getting cabinets and other things installed, keeping it minimum is the best in my opinion and I would only do the installation as you stated. However, I do want to keep some metal exposed because of the ability to use so many magnets. I've lived in my CRV for the last year and found that I don't need electricity or a fridge. In full disclosure, I do have a job where I can power everything during the week and if I need to power my computer/phone on the weekend, I utilize the library and IKEA. I wish you happy and safe travels. :)
Thanks for tuning in and commenting:-). I was just discussing this with my nephew today! I’m not sure how much I will build in at some point because I am truly loving the openness! Lots of travel coming up so I’ll let necessity dictate things from here as I go :-)
You did a great job. It gives us all hope we can do, just start.🎉❤
What a nice comment to find here. Thanks for tuning in and following the journey:-)
This is a very lovely no build, build. I got a Promaster last spring and have been camping in it as a no build, build while I've been figuring out how I want to finish it out. I now have the insulation, ceiling and walls about 7/8 finished with a window in the sliding door, a necessity for safety. I put windows in the back doors and behind the driver's seat. I've figured out the next step or two. I've had it for nearly a year now and have traveled in three states and curb camped, gone to many campgrounds meeting friends and traveled with one friend and my 70 pound dog. All of this helped me to know I want mine walk through from front to back. I'm glad I have traveled and camped in it a lot as doing so has helped me to make some much better decisions for my needs. I look forward to seeing how you finish yours out as you decide how you want the final build.
To be able to walk through it front to back, will you be installing a hydraulic bed, or do you plan on having a small twin bed along one side?
I have watched hundreds of videos and a hydraulic bed is my number one must have because I want a seating area big enough for guests and I don't want to have to convert a bed into a seating area every morning and then back into a bed every night. I have a bad back, and it would just kill me. My 2nd must-have is I want the front cab closed off, but with a pocket door. I've noticed that the builds with the front cab closed off look so warm and homey and less RV-ish. My 3rd must-have is a shower and toilet because I pretty much never use public restrooms unless it is an emergency, so without a proper bathroom, I would not be able to enjoy van life. I saw a truck conversion that had a Murphey shower, and it was the coolest, most clever thing I have seen in a build.
What are your must haves for your build?
Thank you for watching and sharing! This encourages me to stay the course :-). I imagine I’ll change things up many times to find the perfect set up for my needs, and the only way to do that is to just get out and use it :-). I’m glad that has worked well for you also. Safe travels out there :-)
I love that you’ve got those must haves figured out :-). I will just have the stationary bed and use the curtains to section off the can (although I definitely see the appeal of the pocket doors). The shower/toilet combo will be a must have, but that will be quite a ways down the road before that project will even begin. (Although there is already a toilet option in place and a temporary “emergency” shower idea in the works).
@@TinyTexanAdventures I can't wait to see what you end up doing. I am truly impressed with your no build build!
I thought I’d really like a happyjack bed lift too. So I could travel w a friend BUT I’d lose all that garage space. Also I’d get a back door shower w tankless water heater if I wanted a “shower”
Great job!!! I’ve been wanting to do this for years!! Maybe it’s time! You have inspired me!! 😊
Thank you! 😊 I’m no expert, but keeping it simple sure allowed for me to get on the road faster and just tweak as I go :-). Best of luck to you, keep me posted if you end up joining the club :-)
I built out a 2014 ProMaster 136" wheel base. The lessons I learned from mistakes were - imagine and design into the floor plan every electrical thing you could some day want in your van and put in all the wiring for those things first.
Thanks for watching and for the input. This is the very reason I haven’t added walls or ceiling yet, because I don’t fully know my final plan will look like yet. Better to take it slow and be sure :-). I do like the idea of adding electrical for even the things I may want some day and not just what I know I’ll be starting with :-).
Since you have so much clothing in drawers - move your rattling bowls and any dishware into a clothing drawer; one item per drawer and it won't rattle while staying well protected. Bonus! Opens up space in your kitchen drawer!
This was what I needed to see. I found a van that is set up, although I would change some things., but it showed me I can live and travel with it the way it is, make money and memories, then adjust over time.
Absolutely! I have LOVED the flexibility the build as I go has provided. In your case if you get something you like that has good bones, you can make changes along the way as you see a need for it :-). Best of luck to you! Safe travels
I love your no build van. I wouldn’t change a thing. New subscriber. Can’t wait to follow your journey. 🚐
Thank you so much for tuning in and subscribing ❤️. It will definitely be a learning experience for us all 🤣
This is amazing! I'm so excited to see what you do as time goes on. 🎉
Wow. I can't wait to see your progress. Very impressive.
Thank you 😊
Looking forward to how you did your shore power 👍🏼
Thanks, the video will post on Tuesday :-)
Just Great. Nice work achieving the Cozy. Happy trails
Thanks so much 😊. Keeping it simple gets me back on the road so much faster ❤️
Wow! Very attractive and functional. Love how are you are using magnets everywhere. Wish you didn't need to insulate. This might be my favorite build so far.
Thank you 😊 The insulation definitely changed the look but was necessary for my travels. I was a pretty big fan of the van look without the insulation :-)
I was sad to see you sell Gidget, but I understand now why you did. I love following your new journey/detour/ chapter. I am amazed and how well and quickly you pulled all this together to get back on the road. I love your simplistic setup. It’s perfect 👌 for right now. The big Jackery looks interesting for something we might use when camping or if we lose power at home. I hope you shared a link to it.
Thank you for sticking around. Letting Gidget go was hard, but I definitely have different freedoms and safety now for the way I hope to travel. The link in the description is to my Amazon van page and the Jackery is on there. I seriously love and am continually impressed by it and it was hands down the best purchase for my no build (no wired) start.
Love love❤❤❤❤ loooovvvveeee everything you have done!!! Goes to show you don't need to spend a ton of money for it. You can spend as you go. Thank you thank you THANK YOU FOR AN AWESOME BUILD!!!!! It's perfect!! And you can decorate as you go as well. Perfect!!! I really love your ikea kitchen area. Keep posting. I'll keep following!! ❤❤❤
Thank you so much for tuning in, following, and for such positive feedback :-). It’s definitely going to be a learning experience for me, but I’m pretty happy that I’ll be able to adjust as I go :-)
Love this, simple, spacious, organized and has everything you need and nothing you don't. It exudes peacefulness and calmness.
Thanks for watching and for the positive feedback ❤️
I am only 2:40 into your video and have subscribed. I am in awe of what you have done in just two weeks. Well done and on with the adventures!!
Thank you that’s very kind. I appreciate you tuning in and for the positive comment :-)
Really cute inside your van. I kinda like the bare walls/ceiling look. The magnets holding up everything you need is great because your walls are metal. I never like to put nails in walls so this is especially appealing to me. Only problem I can see are all the spaces and little holes that surround you as you sleep. I'm thinking little spiders that might make their homes in those spaces come out at night. Maybe a mesh canopy hanging from the ceiling above your bed, draped down, would keep something crawly outside of your bedspace when you're sleeping. Work for mosquitoes, too.
😳. I never thought about the spiders lol!! I am definitely enjoying the endless magnetic possibilities ❤️❤️ 🧲
I'm glad you shared this and I stumbled on it. The reality is I might have to do it slowly too, live in it while I 'build' it. Nice to see it can be done, thanks!
This is so impressive. You have everything you could need and you have organized it all with such great care. I have never seen such a comfortable no-build van. Kudos!
Thank you 😊 and thanks for watching/commenting. I’m definitely enjoying the simplicity so far ♥️
I love this video you have inspired me and given me hope that I don’t have to have everything figured out to start van living!
Thank you for sharing! THIS comment is exactly why I wanted to share my journey ♥️
Me too❤
Excellent job! Love how neat and organized everything is!
Thank you 😊
Love your sink area.
Thank you 😊. Simple, but very functional:-)
I love it! I'm so glad someone has installed the small metal Ikea kitchen w/sink and the mattress support. Thanks!
Thanks for tuning in :-). The IKEA stuff sure makes for an easy and relatively inexpensive start :-)
Great video! I love that you are starting where you are, and making it happen as you go. You have such a kind demeanor. New subscriber.. looking forward to your future videos.
What a nice thing to say! Thank you so much for watching,subbing, and the positive feedback ❤️
Love it , it's exactly what i did with my van which is really too small for me ,saving for a bigger van, ply lined, i put down stick down floor tiles on the ply lined floor and a rug and just basic storage draws etc,as im with some health problems and partially disabled i definitely need a bigger van now ,New subscriber 😊
Thanks so much for watching, commenting, and subbing 😊. I still haven’t decided on my floor yet but I’ll likely do the same thing :-). Love that you get the simplicity:-). Best of luck towards the new van whenever you get it :-)
Thanks :)
I prefer this "industrial look" without insulation :)
Great job, I tour with a family band and I’m Looking to buy my first van, and then I’m going to do something similar to this with it while we tour until I can get the time to build it out. Nice. Really like what you’ve done.
I really enjoyed your no build video. I’m looking for Promaster or Transit now. Going back and forth to buy empty or converted. And seeing what you did makes me want to move ahead with an empty van, and build as you did! I really like the two IKEA purchases (prep table and bed) but couldn’t find on website. Can you provide more info on those important items?
Thank you for watching and commenting :-). The links for both are in the description of this video. If you cannot locate them just let me know and I’ll grab and put them here.
Your space heater looks so happy… I honestly thought it was some sort of little robot! I’m so excited to find your no-build build. It’s not built in, but it definitely feels like it’s built. I just ordered one of those shore power adapters and I’m so relieved I don’t have to do any complicated wiring in my van. Plus, hooking my maxx air up to my jacket y just like you did. Awesome.
Ha! This made me laugh and now that I’ve gone back to look at the space heater I can’t unsee it 😂. I’ll need to give it a name now lol.
I felt the same way about the wiring initially but it sure is nice having less complicated options! I’m no expert but happy to share what works for me. Thanks for watching and commenting. Hope you have a great week :-)
Totally love it!!! I'm going to subscribe to your channel. Wishing you all the best!!!!
Thank you for subscribing and for the positive feedback:-)
I am so impressed I can’t tell you! 🎉 BRAVO 🎉🎉😊
Awww thank you! She will be a labor of love ❤️
The ingenuity behind this no-build build is amazing. It’s simple, but extremely functional. Your video is such a hopeful video to so many people out there trying to start van life who are unable to purchase a van and then pay someone so much for the build. The will power to make it all happen is astonishing. How much would you say this all cost you approximately? Also, are you planning on visiting warm areas only or both? If so, how will you tackle extreme temperatures (hot or cold)? Do you have a plan to do so other than using insulation? Thanks for sharing and safe travels!
Thanks so much for tuning in and for the positive feedback:-). I’ll work on a list for cost and post when I total it. As far as the weather, the plan is to avoid extreme temps (both cold and hot). In addition to the insulation I will have 2 windows for cross ventilation and a maxx air fan to help in warmer temps (eventually I would like to get a 12volt ac). For the cold temps I use my space heater (I have a small buddy heater too if off grid) and my electric blanket. The plan is to follow the comfortable weather to an extent :-)
My pleasure! Thanks for taking the time to reply. I really appreciate it. Safe travels.@@TinyTexanAdventures
Walmart Bathrooms are handy, place to park when needed, and the new water fountains have a water bottle filler. A smaller quart size bottle is better, gallon size doesn't fit well, all free to use.
Very nice great start up on your van
Thank you and thanks for watching:-)
Thank you thank you so much this exactly what I needed to see. I want to have this custom builder. Actually build out a Van for me next year. But I didn't want to have to wait a whole year and a 1/2 basically. Or two years until I could afford to buy a van and then pay to have the conversion done. But this no build. I could go ahead and buy my Van now. Use it for everyday use and do my traveling in it while i'm still paying off bills and saving money for the conversion. This is awesome I love the basic idea of this. Thank you so much
This message makes me very happy and is exactly why I wanted to share this journey. Thank YOU so much for watching and sharing your comment with me. Best of luck to you!!!
I'll be moving into my 2015 Promaster 3500 soon and will have a similar setup to this. Apartment raised rent to over $2000 a month so decided to get a van instead. I've always wanted to start traveling.
Well I know it’s not for everyone, but I find it incredibly freeing and I do love having the ability to spend what I want on “rent”. Best of luck to you out there :-)
$2000 a month for rent!? That's unbelieveable! My mortgage isn't even half that much for my 5 bedroom house with an ADU out in the country!!!
@@rattlecat5968 I am looking for a home at in the country, but real estate prices are very high sadly :/
@@censoredeveryday3320What do you consider "really high?"
I own acreage and a large home, etc, and there are sooooo many properties out here like mine that sell for less than a travel van! The vans are more expensive than a full fledged HOUSE- and that's one reason I have yet to buy one. 😒
@@rattlecat5968 I wish I had acrage and a large home. I just escaped a large city and now looking for 5-10 acres with a decent house myself that isn't in the middle of nowhere.
Really like your setup. Will be following you. It's just me n my dog and I like to keep it really basic. TY ❤
Thanks for tuning in and following along :-) once I figure out my consistent heating and air, I may get another fur baby too. :-)
I appreciate this build as a class B owner of a 23 Winnebago Travato. I'm helping my son build one on his van and the beauty of your design is the van can be brought back to its original state if you want to sell it again. As you know you can spend thousands of dollars on permanent van builds. I'm putting a no drill solar system on top of the van using Eterna bond tape (many TH-cam videos on this project). We used a large cot for a bed. The power comes from a simple inexpensive LiFePO4 battery with an inverter. No sink yet but yours is a wonderful design. We haven't decided on the insulation that is cumbersome and tedious to install but here in California the temp is not too extreme.
Thanks for tuning in and sharing. I’m going to check out some of the no drill solar videos you suggested!
This is perfect!!!! Thanks for sharing
Thanks for tuning in and commenting ♥️
Thank you for some great ideas! A nice “compromise” between my husband’s idea of ‘just throw a mattress and gas stove in the back’ to my ‘I’d like it a bit more organised and comfortable’ idea. For the 2 of us and our doberman…. 😬 😊 greetings from Down Under 👍
lol! Greetings and thanks for watching/commenting. Hope it helps with your compromise too lol
A bed, a fridge , a little cooktop thing , a big enough battery to keep things running, a toilet.. What more do you need...
INSULATION!
@Frantic618 yes, the plan was always to eventually add insulation. At the time of that video the temps were mild and I was able to travel nicely without it. I did add the insulation a few months later as funds allowed :-)
I’m wanting to go van life to reduce my stresses in life this is a great way to get the life started!!
It’s not always perfect, but it has been a fantastic way to get going :-). Thanks for watching.
wow, i was almost a min in before i realized you were filming in a van! It's so homey and spacious. Nice work. Thank you for sharing your setup. Can't wait to find a great deal and start customizing my van.
Thanks for watching and for the positive feedback:-). I’ve now been in the van for 5 months and have made some changes, but I love being able to easily make changes on the road. I have more projects after summer but enjoying the travel time right now :-). Good luck on your van!
I have the smallest 2020 Promaster 118” WB. They all have the same V6 engine. I get terrible gas mileage. The computer mileage reading is inaccurate. I use a calculator with fill ups and at best it gets 16 mpg. When fully loaded it gets around 12 at 65mph.
The PM is a pleasure to drive and you have excellent visibility and total command of the road with the huge side mirrors. Change the battery at 4 years because it will drop below a voltage level and the van won’t start and the key will be stuck in the ignition. Modular design is best with just essentials. Do not install cabinets because the weight will kill your mpg even further. Also you absolutely have to insulate the ceiling or it will rain condensation on you in cold weather. CR Laurence sells a 15x30 removable sunroof that fits perfectly on the metal stamped ceiling behind the seats. It allows access to your roof from inside the vehicle and fresh air. Fans are nice but a sunroof doesn’t require electricity. The PM is a powerful van. I’ve driven up and down the California Sierra but the fuel mileage is the worst, especially at $5/gallon. Keep it light. I do have the AluRack roof rack and I carry my canoe so that may affect mileage. On steep grades on mountain roads the automatic transmission will sense the grade at hold you at a steady speed. No need to downshift unless you’re on a very steep mountain back road. The build on the PM allows small mice to enter so take that into consideration. They built a nest in my roof over the driver seat. Parallel parking this beast is not easy even with the backup camera do I try to avoid that. I have the lower roof version and it’s almost tall enough to stand up in, just crouch. The high roof version must get even worse gas mileage. I don’t believe you got 20 mpg unless the van was empty. Also, you need commercial insurance which is expensive. Nothing about the PM is cheap. I baby it driving it because the repair costs are very high. It’s out of warranty. I built my bed rack out if 2 Werner extendable scaffolds. 6-8 ft. They fit perfectly between the rear and also provide great storage on top and below. I can also remove them with wing nuts. This is a cargo van. I want to haul stuff so keeping it modular is the way to go. Eventually you will reach a day when you want to bailout of van travel and it’s much easier to sell a bare van to a contractor. You will never recoup your investment on an expensive van build. Last point, if you enter an area with high wind warnings, heed them and slow down. My low roof version was almost thrown into the adjacent lane by high winds near the Carquinez straits on 680. These vans have a lot surface area and act like a sail
Wow that’s some good advice. I’ve been thinking about a promaster. The gas mileage sure is dismal though. I guess what makes a van aerodynamic also takes away space. The scaffolding for a bed is genius.
The thing about the mice getting in though, that’s no good. I guess they get in from underneath?
Yay! You’ll be adding the finishing touches about the time I’ll be ready to jump into a van. Enjoy!
Awesome 🤩 Keep me posted.