Thank you for clicking on this video and for watching! Several people have asked why my insurance is so expensive, and here’s the story: -I went to an insurance agent that’s worked with my family for a while (and by that I mean, I’m probably not getting scammed, it just is what it is) -I was honest about my situation because I figured it’ll be worse if I get in a wreck and they find out the truth (now I know this is a moral gray area within van living) -they asked what I planned to use this for and I was honest about living in it -they asked how many miles I planned to drive and I was honest about driving all around the US within a year or two -they asked if I had modified it and I said I removed the back seats and seatbelts -I haven’t been in any wrecks and had never received a ticket at that time -I’ve been driving other people’s cars since I was 16 (I was 28 at that point), but because this was my first car, I didn’t have a record of being insured. The way I understand it, this made them insure me as if I was new to driving or had the decision making skills of the average 16 year old. Very unfair in my opinion. If you are a parent you may want to consider adding your child to your insurance to save them a few thousand dollars if you can! -I DID call around to other places and gave the same information, and this was they best I could get! Since then, I’ve found ways to get cheaper insurance, but it’s still more than most people pay because of not having been previously insured. If a kind insurance agent sees this and wants to help, please let me know!!
The insurance game is to keep cranking the rates every year as most people do not pay attention and just pay. EVERY year you must call and ask your agent to send your policy needs to the open market for quotes. That way other carriers can compete for your business and the winner is you because you are paying lower rates. Make sure to have an independent insurance agent as well. Do NOT use an agent that is tied to a brand as that is all they can sell. (Farmer's, State Farm, Etc...) Bonus Hack: If you get a new credit card 4-6 weeks before insurance is due (2k in your case) that has free money tied to spending, AND YOU PAY IN FULL EVERY MONTH, you can save more. Spend 3k in first 90 days and get $500 back for example. If you are strategic and buying what you NEED (2k for premiums and 4 new tires for example) you will have the spend and saved $500! The trick is paying in FULL and NOT buying crap you truly don't need or were not planning on buying anyway. Best of luck.
Lie. I'm not much of a liar but in this situation I'd lie. They lie to you, lie back. 😬😳 jkkinda you're prolly better off telling the truth but dang! At that rate you could just get liability save that money and pay for any damages with cash.
I like this girl. She just seems more "real" than the other young people making similar videos. BTW- 29 is young. Don't push it; it will arrive sooner than you'd like! 👴👵
I love this movement! It is more than just vanlife! It is a new way of living! You don't have to be out on the street without shelter and protection! Stop calling this homeless! A bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room? You can't have this without it being in a home.
Yes, exactly! I’m very blessed to say I chose this lifestyle because I wanted to travel, but money was definitely a big factor in choosing the type of vehicle (big van vs mini van) and how I was going to be living in it. Now I love my little home so much!
Your build is much prettier than mine. I've been living full time in a 2009 Sienna since Feb 2019. I've been to 38 states so far and I'm still loving it.
I love you van build. I am sitting in my 2003 Roadtrek 170 which is 17 feet so not that big and very roomy inside. Im parked on the California coast looking at the ocean. The only thing is gas milage is only 16 and its a bit bulky to drive. Your has the great reliable gas mileage, more stealth and easier to drive. I guess we need to just learn to be grateful for what we have lol. Good luck
Thank you for sharing this. Functional, uncluttered, and really great use of fabrics. Makes it look so much more inviting than what I would think to do. Even just the rug over the fridge makes a really big difference in the feel.
Just be sure the rug doesn't block the fridge's air intake and exhaust grills. It looked as if it could hang down enough to impede the air flow that the fridge needs to work.
Like everyone else, I’m impressed with how uncluttered this is! Those Siennas seem to be a really good size inside and I love those floor storage compartments that helps make it uncluttered. They don’t have those in Australia though
Great job! Everything is so well organized and looks crisp & clean, and that, I think, is the answer to any little van. People have too much stuff most of the time that they will never use, and additionally, have the van so cluttered that it looks crammed. You, evidently, are a neat young lady in more ways than one! I like it very much! Keep us posted!
Thanks so much! I watched a lot of videos or read blogs about what other people living in vans did or didn’t need, so that really helped. Thank you for watching, there is definitely more to come!
Great job on the Sienna Maddie! It really shows your personality! It’s very functional and well thought out. Doing a minivan conversion for one gives you so much more flexibility. Having a bed for two and a small dog really limits what you can do.
Hello. This is wonderful. I bought a 2004 Sienna yesterday that has 138k. Am just back from a road trip west (driving my Suburu), and was tired of motels and looking at extremely expensive campervans online. So I have this now! I am paraplegic and in this manual wheelchair. This van is an original conversion with lowered suspension, middle row seats removed and wheelchair ramp. I am going to remove the passenger seat for added room so I can park my wheelchair there and transfer to drivers seat. Not having use of my legs I will have to get hand controls installed, which unfortunately is pricey. As far as sleeping goes for when I do use it for camping, I don't know. The backrow seats are going to be higher than the rest of vehicle if you can visualize this! But I think with passenger seat removed I can lay flat on a mattress. I'll figure it out as I go along. Glad you are loving what you do, life is too short! Any tips I'll gladly take them!😊
Amazing!!! So clean and minimal (yet has that fantastic cozy home feel). For me, I dislike having to hunch when sitting in bed, so I went with a lowered platform. Would rather have less storage to avoid bed crouching.
Yeah I definitely see where you’re coming from. I get annoyed with my bed height but if it was any lower, I couldn’t fit the plastic storage bins I have underneath :( it’s a bummer!
It's been a while since I've seen it, but someone else had a similar van but for her bed she used like a 4" foam mattress that she cut into sections and used them for a chair during the day and at night laid them out for bed on the van floor. Moved containers around to accommodate. Looked pretty simple. Hope this helps.
I took out both back seats on my 2015 Toy Highlander. I laid in a trimmed- to- fit horse stahl mat to smooth out the bumpy bare floor. I put a softer spongy mat on top of the rubber one, & that was my build. ( I did make a tiny chuck box portable "kitchen " that sits on the matted floor next to my bed. Nothing more.) My mattress & everything else is on the floor, easy. Like traditional Japanese home design. * Sleeping way below the windows, even if they're covered, gives me a better sence of privacy & tons of space to sit up. I've full-timed for tens of thousands of miles & this easy/open design works. ( Even with a big dog.) So, don't worry if you don't have the $ or the skills to do even a small build on a rig, because a minimal " no build" totally works. ) Hope this helps people who are just starting out.
I've been researching a long time and even traveled in a class B for a year, but you've pointed out some ideas I love! The tea towels from all 50 states is fantastic, and so much more practical than magnets or stickers! I love the mounted bottle opener, the cactus, and using the passenger seat so well (I'll be solo, too). I hope to get a 2021 Toyota Sienna as they're hybrid, so with an added solar system I'll have all the power I need. Thanks for a great video and happy trails!
Your build came out very well, I love it! I also have a Jackery, it's worth it's weight in gold. That folding toilet is a good idea. I keep a "Luggable Loo" behind the driver seat. I've never used it, but it gives me peace of mind knowing it's there. LOL. I love that tapestry with the constellations!
I got a 2004 sienna, your layout makes mine look prehistoric, females are just better at that kinda stuff, you made yours very homey, that's what i like about it, keep rolling and stay safe!✌️😎
Mine’s a 2006 & it looks prehistoric too! 10 years of carpooling 6-7 sweaty, muddy kids on a daily basis sure took a toll on my poor “Blue Whale”! She’s still going strong though. Recently fixed a bunch of stuff so it could last me another 100K miles (it’s got 158k) & I love it! Oldie but Goodie & oh so comfy 😊
That's a really great set up. They said it works for you. I've been Boondocking full-time in my F150 with a Leer top four over 2 1/2 years. I'm going to steal a few ideas from you 😃
Absolutely gorgeous. I'd like to redo my grand caravan. It's so crowded. Yours looks good. I need to watch entire video now. If I have ?s I'll comment again.
Great set up! I have the exact same fridge the dual alpicool fridge/freezer. However, once my fridge got down to the temps I set them at It switched it back over to the eco setting on it then hooked it on my jackery 240. It kept it going for quite some time. Maybe try to put your settings on the eco so it doesnt drain so much. I love my Alpicool.
You can get a squirt bottle with a hand pump (about 1/2 gallon), I do lots of dry tent camping for 3 weeks at a time and you’ll be surprised how much water you save, I also squirt the dishes with it to get all the food debris, wash with biodegradable soap and squirt to rinse. A real water saver specially when my dogs drink so much I have to economize or drive a distance just to fill out my containers. I really like your set up, I’m getting ready to get a van and go for months instead of weeks. I subbed Thanks. 👍🏻
Fantastic. Thank you so much. The only common thing separating all you great van campers from us normal human beings is that you don't have and never need a toilet. You travel, cook, grill, make food, eat, drink, enjoy and sleep. But you don't have "a must"! WOW. I would like to be like that one day. HOW wonderful it will be without ever using a toilet like you! Thank you again for the great video. :-)
I just use gas station/restaurant/wherever restrooms! I would rather hold it than have to drive around with a bag or tank full of my own pee! Although I could see how others would be cool with it
Hey Maddie! 🤗 Wow! Very cool Toyota Sienna! I love all the personal touches you have added since I have last seen it! Love the tapestry on the ceiling and it's cool to know some of the history behind it. I am thinking about removing my back seats next year and doing a similar type of build. Love the little succulent and excellent use of velcro! Love that stuff! One note about the mounted panels vs. the folding ones is that you are able to follow the sun better with the folding kind. I say go for both! Lol! 😂 Thanks for showing us around! -Marshall 🎸
Thanks, Marshall! I’ve been meaning to do this video for a while and I’m glad I finally got it done!! Thanks for watching and for your support, as always! 💕
I planning a road trip across US and was debating if I should use my 2010 Sienna. Your video just popped up on my feed and I am so encouraged after viewing your video. Great job with your conversion of Sienna to camper. Be safe and blessings to you.❤️❤️❤️
Oh great! I think you could definitely use your Sienna for cross-country travel! If it’s just you (as opposed to two people), I think it’s enough space and better gas milage than a bigger van! Good luck on your adventure! Let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!
I have a daughter about your age and I hope you pursue your dreams and passion of life and move on to greater and better things your future has prepared for you. I know your parents wish the same.
I hate to disagree with everyone that is saying BE DISHONEST. But Insurance Claim Adjustors are not idiots (most usually). It is always best to be honest. But the higher your deductibles the more you save. Or just carry Liability. You can always get a smaller Personal Articles Policy to cover your stuff inside the vehicle. I love your build. Very neat and clean. Beautiful.
Your layout is good and clean. You left yourself a decent amount of room to move around. If you add solar panels to your roof, you wouldn’t want to be plugging them directly into your fridge. Based on prevailing weather conditions, the power to the fridge would be intermittent and therefore, highly unreliable. If you wanted to keep your electric system as simple as possible, yet have a dependable level of output for your devices, you should just invest in a Jackery 1000 or 1500. Between the solar panels and plugging your Jackery into your cars 12v socket, as you drive, this may provide you with adequate power for all your needs.
Very unique, I’ve seen several van builds previously, but yours is really different. You really blew me away with the hidden storage in the floor. Great job! 🤗
Yes!! The floor storage is my fave! As far as being different, it just kind of ended up that way! I hadn’t seen a whole lot of minivan builds that had what I wanted, so I just stitched together things that would suit me!
Hi Beer in Beautiful places! Your video was so relaxing .And you are such an informative person of a van builder. Ya know a van builder only has to build their van to satisfy them self. You I belive have satisfied not only hundreds, but me as well ! I am Ron Moore and I hope you succeed in all that You do.God Bless You
Great video, your an inspiration. I just got a van in great condition same as yours but older . Born in 61 we love are vans and sleeping under the stars.
Remove the piece of wood in the floor and put your bed legs on small blocks. :) You can even attach the blocks to the legs. That way you can pull out the cooler too.
G,day Maddie, I am in Australia and have a Toyota Torago , which is the same asyours only right hand drive. Had it a few years now. Rear kitchen, bed the same only I have a moon roof overhead, can watch the Stats at night. Awning on the side, solar panel on the roof ( 200 w) fridge / freezer. LED lights and a fan . good to see your outfit. All the best with your travels. Bluey.
That sounds awesome!! The moon roof must be so cool! I was hoping to find something like that when I was buying my car, but never found one. Sounds like you got a great set up!
You modified well good enough. But I will go for transit 148" mid roof awd. More spacious and gives more options to modify. But I must say you are a great creator by heart.
Thank you!! I put a lot of thought into this design so that means so much to me that you can appreciate it even though you’re going for a totally different van!
I like your video you go to beautiful places. I am almost done with my van it's a mini van..but can't wait to see some places my self been in Florida my whole life like to see something more than a beach 😊
Beer in beautiful places, what an awesome page name, drew me in immediately because having beer in beautiful places is kind of a hobby of mine . Subscribed
Hi With you flip down tv, if you are not electrically inclined, you could go to an auto electrician or someone you know that is handy with that kind of thing & put in a bypass with a switch (-that swithch between the engine start battery & your jackery) you could connect it to your Jackery or another auxiliary battery. It is simple & should not cost that much. But I guess it depends on how often you might want to watch a movie. I guess if you have a lap top you can always watch a movie on that. The only part that might be a little fiddly is removing the headlining & pillar facias to run the bypass wires. Some vehicles are more fiddly, others, not so much.
Yeah, I don’t have a laptop but I do have an iPad I watch stuff on! And the screen is bigger than that widescreen anyway, so it wouldn’t be worth it in the end. It is a cool idea to think about though!
Just happened across your channel and subscribed. I love your setup, and the fact that you used a Sienna instead of a gas-guzzling Ram, Sprinter etc. The Toyota Sienna is so reliable, economical and stealthy. Really enjoyed this video, production and presentation.
Ur motor home is absolutely beautiful. Im in love with it. Each and everything in there is super cute. I love the way how u have paid attention to the tiniest details. Its so neat, warm and cozy. Happy camping..
Thanks for the video. I’ve been crashing in my 2004 Sienna at work due to gas prices. Luckily, work has showers and a small kitchenette. My coworkers thought my wife kicked me out of our house at first. 😄
Awesome! I recently bought exact same van, 2011 XLE AWD, and love it. I just finished my no build, no mod, conversion which has been a challenge keeping all seats in place. I like the stair step on the side door…so maybe I’m not finished with the conversion!😆 I would love to have a plant or 2 and succulents are a great idea! Thanks for sharing, safe travels!
Whoa! We’re van twins! That’s awesome. I bet the no build, no mod was hard, I would’ve gotten annoyed with the seats or something! And thank YOU for watching, have a good rest of your day!
If you love plants- the aloe or zz plants are super easy to care for; just 1 ice chunk a week for a 4” pot (2 for the zz or 1 twice a week). I prefer to “water” mine on Fridays only so I don’t forget
The entire floor must cover with cushion and vinyl we might have the folding hanging table to cook and serve as for writing. The underfloor for clothings the small frigid for soft drinks that all we need we have huge room.
I love the towel collection and have a great suggestion (I think!). At some point when you decide to give up van life, you can have all those little towels made into a beautiful memory quilt to display somewhere! Then it will make a fun conversation piece too!
I so want to live in a Van. like that you are happy. I'm looking for motivational videos and so far this one did it for me. The last video i saw of another lady living in her Van. she seemed happy at first but then started crying in thee end. maybe she needs to watch this video?
That’s so sad. I love having my own little space and seeing the country in it, but I know it’s not for everyone. But for me, this is my favorite thing I’ve ever done in my life!
![The Ultimate Stealth Minivan Camper? Toyota Sienna Camper Conversion [Build #24]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/_0_uc0f6E4g/mqdefault.jpg)
![The Ultimate Stealth Minivan Camper? Toyota Sienna Camper Conversion [Build #24]](/img/tr.png)
Thank you for clicking on this video and for watching! Several people have asked why my insurance is so expensive, and here’s the story:
-I went to an insurance agent that’s worked with my family for a while (and by that I mean, I’m probably not getting scammed, it just is what it is)
-I was honest about my situation because I figured it’ll be worse if I get in a wreck and they find out the truth (now I know this is a moral gray area within van living)
-they asked what I planned to use this for and I was honest about living in it
-they asked how many miles I planned to drive and I was honest about driving all around the US within a year or two
-they asked if I had modified it and I said I removed the back seats and seatbelts
-I haven’t been in any wrecks and had never received a ticket at that time
-I’ve been driving other people’s cars since I was 16 (I was 28 at that point), but because this was my first car, I didn’t have a record of being insured. The way I understand it, this made them insure me as if I was new to driving or had the decision making skills of the average 16 year old. Very unfair in my opinion. If you are a parent you may want to consider adding your child to your insurance to save them a few thousand dollars if you can!
-I DID call around to other places and gave the same information, and this was they best I could get!
Since then, I’ve found ways to get cheaper insurance, but it’s still more than most people pay because of not having been previously insured. If a kind insurance agent sees this and wants to help, please let me know!!
The insurance game is to keep cranking the rates every year as most people do not pay attention and just pay. EVERY year you must call and ask your agent to send your policy needs to the open market for quotes. That way other carriers can compete for your business and the winner is you because you are paying lower rates. Make sure to have an independent insurance agent as well. Do NOT use an agent that is tied to a brand as that is all they can sell. (Farmer's, State Farm, Etc...) Bonus Hack: If you get a new credit card 4-6 weeks before insurance is due (2k in your case) that has free money tied to spending, AND YOU PAY IN FULL EVERY MONTH, you can save more. Spend 3k in first 90 days and get $500 back for example. If you are strategic and buying what you NEED (2k for premiums and 4 new tires for example) you will have the spend and saved $500! The trick is paying in FULL and NOT buying crap you truly don't need or were not planning on buying anyway. Best of luck.
Lie. I'm not much of a liar but in this situation I'd lie. They lie to you, lie back. 😬😳 jkkinda you're prolly better off telling the truth but dang! At that rate you could just get liability save that money and pay for any damages with cash.
Sounds like they may be charging you RV status. I learned this in others comments from previous builds.
Heh you seem pretty kool, once I'm done my conversion I can't wait to do a video like this one.
I like this girl. She just seems more "real" than the other young people making similar videos. BTW- 29 is young. Don't push it; it will arrive sooner than you'd like! 👴👵
I love this movement! It is more than just vanlife! It is a new way of living! You don't have to be out on the street without shelter and protection! Stop calling this homeless! A bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living room? You can't have this without it being in a home.
Yes, exactly! I’m very blessed to say I chose this lifestyle because I wanted to travel, but money was definitely a big factor in choosing the type of vehicle (big van vs mini van) and how I was going to be living in it. Now I love my little home so much!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces Thank you so much for helping to pave the way for the rest of us! I see one good door can open may other good doors!
It is nice to be able to convert a car into a cosy little bedroom but it is also nice if we can rent a garage with en-suite bathroom facilities.
True
This is something Biden would say 😂😂
Your build is much prettier than mine. I've been living full time in a 2009 Sienna since Feb 2019. I've been to 38 states so far and I'm still loving it.
Oh that’s awesome, congrats!!
I want to get a Toyota sienna and make it comfy. Do you have any tips
I love you van build. I am sitting in my 2003 Roadtrek 170 which is 17 feet so not that big and very roomy inside. Im parked on the California coast looking at the ocean. The only thing is gas milage is only 16 and its a bit bulky to drive. Your has the great reliable gas mileage, more stealth and easier to drive. I guess we need to just learn to be grateful for what we have lol. Good luck
Thank you for sharing this. Functional, uncluttered, and really great use of fabrics. Makes it look so much more inviting than what I would think to do. Even just the rug over the fridge makes a really big difference in the feel.
Thank you!! I’ve never had my own place before, so I had a lot of fun with the decorating and making it feel like a teeny tiny studio apartment!
Love your shoe basket by the door! It makes it even more home like with that little touch!!
Just be sure the rug doesn't block the fridge's air intake and exhaust grills. It looked as if it could hang down enough to impede the air flow that the fridge needs to work.
I wish Toyota made a cargo van, but you have the most reliable minivan. Wise choice.
Well done. Your van look so lovely, cozy and beautiful. Thank you for sharing. Stay safe
Thank you!!
Like everyone else, I’m impressed with how uncluttered this is! Those Siennas seem to be a really good size inside and I love those floor storage compartments that helps make it uncluttered. They don’t have those in Australia though
Great job! Everything is so well organized and looks crisp & clean, and that, I think, is the answer to any little van. People have too much stuff most of the time that they will never use, and additionally, have the van so cluttered that it looks crammed. You, evidently, are a neat young lady in more ways than one! I like it very much! Keep us posted!
Thanks so much! I watched a lot of videos or read blogs about what other people living in vans did or didn’t need, so that really helped. Thank you for watching, there is definitely more to come!
Probably the best Toyota Sienna build I have seen! not overcomplicated and looks cozy!
Oh wow! Thank you!! It helps that I’m just one person and I don’t have that much stuff
Great job on the Sienna Maddie! It really shows your personality! It’s very functional and well thought out. Doing a minivan conversion for one gives you so much more flexibility. Having a bed for two and a small dog really limits what you can do.
Oh yeah I bet! I think if I had another person with me, I may have to upgrade to a transit or sprinter-type van!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces This person has a different idea, but it is good for two persons and a little dog: th-cam.com/video/Qa6ooUZm5mg/w-d-xo.html
0.
Hello. This is wonderful. I bought a 2004 Sienna yesterday that has 138k. Am just back from a road trip west (driving my Suburu), and was tired of motels and looking at extremely expensive campervans online. So I have this now! I am paraplegic and in this manual wheelchair. This van is an original conversion with lowered suspension, middle row seats removed and wheelchair ramp. I am going to remove the passenger seat for added room so I can park my wheelchair there and transfer to drivers seat. Not having use of my legs I will have to get hand controls installed, which unfortunately is pricey. As far as sleeping goes for when I do use it for camping, I don't know. The backrow seats are going to be higher than the rest of vehicle if you can visualize this! But I think with passenger seat removed I can lay flat on a mattress. I'll figure it out as I go along. Glad you are loving what you do, life is too short! Any tips I'll gladly take them!😊
Glad you found my video helpful, and congratulations on the big purchase! I hope it all works out and you love your new adventure mobile!
Amazing!!! So clean and minimal (yet has that fantastic cozy home feel). For me, I dislike having to hunch when sitting in bed, so I went with a lowered platform. Would rather have less storage to avoid bed crouching.
Yeah I definitely see where you’re coming from. I get annoyed with my bed height but if it was any lower, I couldn’t fit the plastic storage bins I have underneath :( it’s a bummer!
It's been a while since I've seen it, but someone else had a similar van but for her bed she used like a 4" foam mattress that she cut into sections and used them for a chair during the day and at night laid them out for bed on the van floor. Moved containers around to accommodate. Looked pretty simple.
Hope this helps.
I took out both back seats on my 2015 Toy Highlander. I laid in a trimmed- to- fit horse stahl mat to smooth out the bumpy bare floor. I put a softer spongy mat on top of the rubber one, & that was my build. ( I did make a tiny chuck box portable "kitchen " that sits on the matted floor next to my bed. Nothing more.)
My mattress & everything else is on the floor, easy. Like traditional Japanese home design. * Sleeping way below the windows, even if they're covered, gives me a better sence of privacy & tons of space to sit up.
I've full-timed for tens of thousands of miles & this easy/open design works. ( Even with a big dog.)
So, don't worry if you don't have the $ or the skills to do even a small build on a rig, because a minimal " no build" totally works. ) Hope this helps people who are just starting out.
One of the prettiest builds I've seen in a minivan. I especially love the stars on the ceiling!
Thank you so much!
Recently bought a Sienna and was looking for buildout examples, so ended up here. Looks like you did a great one!
Oh yay! Glad I could help!! Good luck in your adventures!
I love your ceiling! All of it looks great- thank you for sharing this.
You have a great space! It's cute and functional and it doesn't seem crowded or claustrophobic! I love it!
Thank you!! It was definitely a balancing act between storage space and space to move around, but it turned out to be the right balance for me!
Omg…this is the van I want! Love your design & setup. Everything is so well organized!
Aww thank you so much! Glad you like it!
Your van is really cozy. You did a really nice job building it. Congratulations.
Thank you! “Cozy” is exactly what I was going for!!
I love it so much! You did an amazing job! Functional & cozy :) Probably my favorite van I've seen so far! Happy & safe travels to you~
Yay! That’s awesome! 🎉 Thank you for your kind comment!
I've been researching a long time and even traveled in a class B for a year, but you've pointed out some ideas I love! The tea towels from all 50 states is fantastic, and so much more practical than magnets or stickers! I love the mounted bottle opener, the cactus, and using the passenger seat so well (I'll be solo, too). I hope to get a 2021 Toyota Sienna as they're hybrid, so with an added solar system I'll have all the power I need. Thanks for a great video and happy trails!
Oh awesome! A 2021 Sienna would be so cool! I bet that’ll turn out great! Thanks for watching!
Nice video. I'll see u on the road...my honda is same color as yours. Good luck and keep the videos coming!
Is a class B rlly a lot more gas?
Your build came out very well, I love it! I also have a Jackery, it's worth it's weight in gold. That folding toilet is a good idea. I keep a "Luggable Loo" behind the driver seat. I've never used it, but it gives me peace of mind knowing it's there. LOL. I love that tapestry with the constellations!
Thank you for watching!!
I got a 2004 sienna, your layout makes mine look prehistoric, females are just better at that kinda stuff, you made yours very homey, that's what i like about it, keep rolling and stay safe!✌️😎
Thank you! I’ve never had a place of my own before so I really went hard on making it as homey and nice and welcoming as possible!
Mine’s a 2006 & it looks prehistoric too! 10 years of carpooling 6-7 sweaty, muddy kids on a daily basis sure took a toll on my poor “Blue Whale”!
She’s still going strong though. Recently fixed a bunch of stuff so it could last me another 100K miles (it’s got 158k) & I love it! Oldie but Goodie & oh so comfy 😊
That's a really great set up. They said it works for you. I've been Boondocking full-time in my F150 with a Leer top four over 2 1/2 years. I'm going to steal a few ideas from you 😃
I’m happy to share, go right ahead! Let me know if there’s anything specific I can help with!
Absolutely gorgeous. I'd like to redo my grand caravan. It's so crowded. Yours looks good. I need to watch entire video now. If I have ?s I'll comment again.
Oh good! And yes please, comment away!
What a beautiful set-up and wonderful woman. You have given me so many ideas for my build. Thank you! 😊
Oh good! Glad I could help!
Great set up!
I have the exact same fridge the dual alpicool fridge/freezer. However, once my fridge got down to the temps I set them at It switched it back over to the eco setting on it then hooked it on my jackery 240. It kept it going for quite some time. Maybe try to put your settings on the eco so it doesnt drain so much.
I love my Alpicool.
I think I had it on eco! I’ll double check when I start to use it again, though! For now, I’m not using it while I’ve been in one spot for work
Love the simplicity of the decor.
It looks so good! I love the design and the personal touches!!
Thanks for watching, Nicole!! Welcome to my first “home” that’s all mine!
You can get a squirt bottle with a hand pump (about 1/2 gallon), I do lots of dry tent camping for 3 weeks at a time and you’ll be surprised how much water you save, I also squirt the dishes with it to get all the food debris, wash with biodegradable soap and squirt to rinse. A real water saver specially when my dogs drink so much I have to economize or drive a distance just to fill out my containers. I really like your set up, I’m getting ready to get a van and go for months instead of weeks. I subbed Thanks. 👍🏻
That would be so handy! Having that water pressure would make cleaning up way easier. Good idea!
Great build - love it! It's so open and airy, and feminine!
Thank you for sharing honey! xoxo
Glad to be able to help! Thank YOU for watching!
Fantastic. Thank you so much. The only common thing separating all you great van campers from us normal human beings is that you don't have and never need a toilet. You travel, cook, grill, make food, eat, drink, enjoy and sleep. But you don't have "a must"! WOW. I would like to be like that one day. HOW wonderful it will be without ever using a toilet like you! Thank you again for the great video. :-)
I just use gas station/restaurant/wherever restrooms! I would rather hold it than have to drive around with a bag or tank full of my own pee! Although I could see how others would be cool with it
VERY well organized! I’d like to see how you organized your closet/clothes
Yeah, I was just thinking today how I didn’t really show how I organize all my stuff! I’ll have to make another video about all those details!
I fell in love with u when u said "i can sit back here, have a beer and enjoy nature😍 the world needs more women like u
Most of my friends are beer-and-nature girls, too! There’s plenty of us around!
Hey Maddie! 🤗 Wow! Very cool Toyota Sienna! I
love all the personal touches you have added since I have last seen it!
Love the tapestry on the ceiling and it's cool to know some of the history behind it.
I am thinking about removing my back seats next year and doing a similar type of build.
Love the little succulent and excellent use of velcro! Love that stuff!
One note about the mounted panels vs. the folding ones is that you are able to follow the sun better with the folding kind.
I say go for both! Lol! 😂
Thanks for showing us around!
-Marshall 🎸
Thanks, Marshall! I’ve been meaning to do this video for a while and I’m glad I finally got it done!! Thanks for watching and for your support, as always! 💕
I planning a road trip across US and was debating if I should use my 2010 Sienna. Your video just popped up on my feed and I am so encouraged after viewing your video. Great job with your conversion of Sienna to camper. Be safe and blessings to you.❤️❤️❤️
Oh great! I think you could definitely use your Sienna for cross-country travel! If it’s just you (as opposed to two people), I think it’s enough space and better gas milage than a bigger van! Good luck on your adventure! Let me know if there’s anything else I can help you with!
Seriously so cool!! You did a great job with it!!
Thank you!!! I’m very proud of it! 😊
Hey, I'm watching you on the appalachian trail right now...love your van...stay cool cutie!!
Good for you! We used to have a Toyota Sienna (aka Swagger Wagon). It was a great vehicle. Cheers!
Oh that’s awesome! My parents had one when I was a kid, too. They’re everywhere!
I came when from a comment you posted 8 months ago about living out of a suv. So I wanted to see if you did it. I am glad to see that you did
Oh wow! That feels like so long ago! I’m so thankful it worked out the way it did! Thanks for watching!
I have a daughter about your age and I hope you pursue your dreams and passion of life and move on to greater and better things your future has prepared for you. I know your parents wish the same.
It looks great Maddie! Love your little home on the road!
Thank you!! Thanks for visiting my house!
A well thought out conversion. The Sienna is a reliable rig. Good job!
Thanks! I’m doing an updated tour soon if you’re interested!
I love my Sienna and mini van. I saw a plug and play camping kit at overland expo 2021 the other day. Pricey kit but very nice.
Oh that’s cool. What’s plug and play?
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces slang for just put it in and go. No custom fitting or modifications needed.
Do you have a link?
I hate to disagree with everyone that is saying BE DISHONEST. But Insurance Claim Adjustors are not idiots (most usually). It is always best to be honest. But the higher your deductibles the more you save. Or just carry Liability. You can always get a smaller Personal Articles Policy to cover your stuff inside the vehicle. I love your build. Very neat and clean. Beautiful.
Thank you! I agree with that too! Most of the time they ask directly “how many miles are you planning on driving?” So I can even not mention it
Amazing setup. I’m doing something similar but there’s more Tetris involved being 6’3
Oh I bet! I was really thankful for being the size I am while designing this space!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces I rented a Highlander and have plenty of room to sleep in it. I’m on day 5 of my 17 day trip.
Use your sleeping bag for insulation over your refrigerator. That makes a significant difference for me with a simple ice chest.
Oh, interesting idea! That would be even better than my towel and rug!
Wow! What a lovely set up in your van!! AND you love beer!!
Thank you! And yes I do! 🍻
They ought to make rent cheap enough for a human being to live people have to find ways to survive with this economy like it is
Nice and simple, open and airy. Good vibes love it
your kinda gutsy as a girl traveling around the country...pretty cool though
Yep, just trying to soak in all of the world while I can!
Your layout is good and clean. You left yourself a decent amount of room to move around. If you add solar panels to your roof, you wouldn’t want to be plugging them directly into your fridge. Based on prevailing weather conditions, the power to the fridge would be intermittent and therefore, highly unreliable. If you wanted to keep your electric system as simple as possible, yet have a dependable level of output for your devices, you should just invest in a Jackery 1000 or 1500. Between the solar panels and plugging your Jackery into your cars 12v socket, as you drive, this may provide you with adequate power for all your needs.
I actually updated my electrical system in September. Here’s more info if you’d like!
th-cam.com/video/m5GAR4UCzCI/w-d-xo.html
I love your van build- so simple & clean!!! I have an older Toyota Sienna that I can’t wait to “live in”! Thank you for sharing your video
Oh awesome! They’re really great vehicles!
Very unique, I’ve seen several van builds previously, but yours is really different. You really blew me away with the hidden storage in the floor. Great job! 🤗
Yes!! The floor storage is my fave! As far as being different, it just kind of ended up that way! I hadn’t seen a whole lot of minivan builds that had what I wanted, so I just stitched together things that would suit me!
Hi Beer in Beautiful places! Your video was so relaxing .And you are such an informative person of a van builder. Ya know a van builder only has to build their van to satisfy them self. You I belive have satisfied not only hundreds, but me as well ! I am Ron Moore and I hope you succeed in all that You do.God Bless You
A place for everything and everything in it's place, a great all round package.
She's beautiful and were not just talking about the van 😍
Haha thanks
I just finished watching this for the first time and was thinking the same thing.
Nice, simple, clean, organized, functional, very nice.
Thank you! It’s not always this clean, but it can be when I want it to!
very cool set up! i just bought an old 2004 sienna and i am stoked to convert it. Thanks for the inspo :)
Oh awesome!! Good luck with that, I bet it’ll turn out great!
Awesome set up! I look forward to following your adventures! 👍
Thank you! I just went through Michigan, and I’m posting the video on Wednesday!
Great video, your an inspiration. I just got a van in great condition same as yours but older . Born in 61 we love are vans and sleeping under the stars.
You’re a girl after my own heart, beautiful places and a nice cold local beer, awesome❤
Aw yay!
Thank you for all the tips. The way you live your life is inspiring for all of us looking for freedom.
Thank you! I’m glad I could be helpful to you!
Sounds like you're a good driver 🤔🤣 😎👌 Great build 👍
Great tour. It’s cool that you can sit up on your bed. I can’t fit in that position at all.
There’s not much room under the bed, but I think it’s worth it
Remove the piece of wood in the floor and put your bed legs on small blocks. :) You can even attach the blocks to the legs. That way you can pull out the cooler too.
She is a little doll..very cute and sweet .
Aww! Thanks!! 🪆
G,day Maddie,
I am in Australia and have a Toyota Torago , which is the same asyours only right hand drive. Had it a few years now. Rear kitchen, bed the same only I have a moon roof overhead, can watch the Stats at night. Awning on the side, solar panel on the roof ( 200 w) fridge / freezer. LED lights and a fan .
good to see your outfit. All the best with your travels. Bluey.
That sounds awesome!! The moon roof must be so cool! I was hoping to find something like that when I was buying my car, but never found one. Sounds like you got a great set up!
You modified well good enough. But I will go for transit 148" mid roof awd. More spacious and gives more options to modify. But I must say you are a great creator by heart.
Thank you!! I put a lot of thought into this design so that means so much to me that you can appreciate it even though you’re going for a totally different van!
I like your video you go to beautiful places.
I am almost done with my van it's a mini van..but can't wait to see some places my self been in Florida my whole life like to see something more than a beach 😊
Wow😊 very good video. I am really happy seeing you happy. Stay safe and God bless
Beer in beautiful places, what an awesome page name, drew me in immediately because having beer in beautiful places is kind of a hobby of mine . Subscribed
Oh yay! Welcome to the channel!
Thanks for mentioning insurance. Most van life videos don’t mention that. Good to know👍
Hi
With you flip down tv, if you are not electrically inclined, you could go to an auto electrician or someone you know that is handy with that kind of thing & put in a bypass with a switch (-that swithch between the engine start battery & your jackery) you could connect it to your Jackery or another auxiliary battery. It is simple & should not cost that much.
But I guess it depends on how often you might want to watch a movie. I guess if you have a lap top you can always watch a movie on that.
The only part that might be a little fiddly is removing the headlining & pillar facias to run the bypass wires. Some vehicles are more fiddly, others, not so much.
Yeah, I don’t have a laptop but I do have an iPad I watch stuff on! And the screen is bigger than that widescreen anyway, so it wouldn’t be worth it in the end. It is a cool idea to think about though!
Just happened across your channel and subscribed. I love your setup, and the fact that you used a Sienna instead of a gas-guzzling Ram, Sprinter etc. The Toyota Sienna is so reliable, economical and stealthy. Really enjoyed this video, production and presentation.
Ur motor home is absolutely beautiful. Im in love with it. Each and everything in there is super cute. I love the way how u have paid attention to the tiniest details. Its so neat, warm and cozy. Happy camping..
Thank you! It really is nice for something mostly built by first timers!
Thanks for the video. I’ve been crashing in my 2004 Sienna at work due to gas prices.
Luckily, work has showers and a small kitchenette.
My coworkers thought my wife kicked me out of our house at first. 😄
Nice!!! Way to think outside the box!
Awesome! I recently bought exact same van, 2011 XLE AWD, and love it. I just finished my no build, no mod, conversion which has been a challenge keeping all seats in place. I like the stair step on the side door…so maybe I’m not finished with the conversion!😆 I would love to have a plant or 2 and succulents are a great idea! Thanks for sharing, safe travels!
Whoa! We’re van twins! That’s awesome. I bet the no build, no mod was hard, I would’ve gotten annoyed with the seats or something! And thank YOU for watching, have a good rest of your day!
If you love plants- the aloe or zz plants are super easy to care for; just 1 ice chunk a week for a 4” pot (2 for the zz or 1 twice a week). I prefer to “water” mine on Fridays only so I don’t forget
I love your build! You kept it super simple. Happy traveling!
Thanks! I didn't really have time, know-how, or the desire for anything too complicated, so simple was the best way to go, in my case
This is so cute. Exactly what I want to do. Simple and organized. Thank you.
You are so welcome! Glad you enjoyed!
You did a remarkable job with this build! I love your "night sky"!
Thank you! ✨
Good for you. Never let people think you're alone.
Heck yeah!
i have been watching your thru hike shorts, and NEVER knew you had a conversion van!
I love what you've done. I think it's perfect and I would be so happy with it. Best wishes from Texas.
I like the aesthetic of your van.
Thanks!! I was going for something cabin-y, but also modern and clean, but also specific to me and my taste. I think it came out pretty close to that!
Love the van set up,.. I’m a car camper myself too. Your gorgeous too. ❤😊
Very expensive car insurance.
Thanks. Good video
RS. Canada
The entire floor must cover with cushion and vinyl we might have the folding hanging table to cook and serve as for writing. The underfloor for clothings the small frigid for soft drinks that all we need we have huge room.
Mmm, this is Beautiful, mmm, blessings dear, I'm watching from South Africa ❤
New to your channel. You’re madd cool. Love your van setup. 👍
Very Bougie-Bohemian. Definitely creative.
Thanks!!
This video will really help me transform my Odyssey!
Glad I could help! I bet you’ll have a blast!
I love the towel collection and have a great suggestion (I think!). At some point when you decide to give up van life, you can have all those little towels made into a beautiful memory quilt to display somewhere! Then it will make a fun conversation piece too!
Awww! Yeah, that would be so cute! Good thinkin!
That’s a great idea!
Great channel, the Sienna is done up so nice! Keep up the good work.
This it’s Alan, Greetings from Riverside in Southern California.
This is the nicest van build iver seen and will def check out your videos on the flooring and subbed
That’s awesome! Glad I could help!
What a beautiful lady !! God bless you … i hope you happy and joyful all your days. Drive safe …🙏👏
Thank you! You be safe too!
If I ever had to live in a van, I would love it and I would love to live like you, simply beauty.
Thank you!
You have one of the best TH-cam channel names ever! Happy and safe travels!
Thank you!!! 🍻
She is super cute !
Thank you!
I so want to live in a Van. like that you are happy. I'm looking for motivational videos and so far this one did it for me. The last video i saw of another lady living in her Van. she seemed happy at first but then started crying in thee end. maybe she needs to watch this video?
That’s so sad. I love having my own little space and seeing the country in it, but I know it’s not for everyone. But for me, this is my favorite thing I’ve ever done in my life!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces I just love it. your kind of attitude is what I'm looking for in these video's. God bless
When my van grows up, I want it to look like yours. 😍
Thanks!!
Pretty inside the van be happy life goes on
Thank you! I am very happy!