Best VAN LIFE Gear - Top 12 Essential Items We Can't Go Without

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 ธ.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 160

  • @ExploringAlternatives
    @ExploringAlternatives  3 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    Thanks for watching! For your chance to win a Sprinter van conversion and support a great cause, enter at www.omaze.com/exploringalternatives

    • @gggusc11
      @gggusc11 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      No Glock?

    • @leanbean8376
      @leanbean8376 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@gggusc11 IKR!! I'm sure there's a sh!t load of women that would love that, alone w/few guys!😄...

  • @username27328
    @username27328 3 ปีที่แล้ว +102

    From my personal vehicle dwelling experience, I would also recommend
    1. battery jumper
    2. battery charger
    3. socket set to work on car stuff
    4. gloves
    5. Baby wipes
    6. Odorless ziplock bags
    7. bio degradable soap
    There are many more useful tools for van living/ camping but so much of it depends on personal preference. Best of luck to you all

    • @ExploringAlternatives
      @ExploringAlternatives  3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Those are great tips, thanks for sharing :) :)

    • @username27328
      @username27328 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@ExploringAlternatives my pleasure, keep up the helpful content

    • @Slugcat317
      @Slugcat317 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      i didnt even know a battery jumper existed thanks

    • @SixInchChaka
      @SixInchChaka 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Throw a chilton on your van model in there

  • @SkoolieBoyQue
    @SkoolieBoyQue 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    I'm a truck driver and I've found this list to be super helpful. Camping gear makes living on the road manageable. Thanks for the list!

  • @Faithful_Tribe
    @Faithful_Tribe 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    You guys are my favorite vanlife people. You’re real, kind, sweet-natured, and humble.
    Or at least it comes off that way to me.
    Thanks for the quality conversations/demonstrations/interactions.
    God bless.

  • @bangalorebobbel
    @bangalorebobbel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Amazing list of items.
    From our experience:
    Key for running any electrical items is definitely the USB capability, as you showed with several items. Everything should run/charge on USB only. Torches, fans, cameras, toothbrush, name it, everything runs on USB only, meanwhile even our laptops charge via USB. No more several sets of different spare batteries, loads of different chargers running at different voltage etc. - just rechargeable items only charged by USB.
    Additionally to the main van power source we keep also always some small power banks ready (usually in the 20.000-26.000mAh range) - they are very handy when we are outside of the vehicle/on a walk as well as inside as backup or when the power cords are too short ...
    We do not use electrical dehumidifiers in the van but have set up moisture absorbing granulate boxes. Works absolutely amazing, keeps the humidity always automatically at 50-60%. Only thing is these boxes should be kept in a trayer or so where it doesn't matter if they splash in curves ... ;-) The granules are cheap and easy to refill, the resulting liquid can be put in the sink. They are also extremely helpful if we keep the van parked alone over a longer period of time - completely maintenance free, no electricity required, no fear of short circuit/fire etc. There are also small containers available in case you want to keep them in a cupboard, but in our van it is not required since the cupboards are all open at the wall side for ventilation.
    Magnetic holders and carabiners are fine, as you demonstrated. We use also plenty of simple S-hooks for hanging up keys, caps and other stuff somewhere ...

  • @Sagittarius-A-Star
    @Sagittarius-A-Star 3 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    #7 is the most important item.
    At least for me.
    Mosquitoes love my blood, it is really incredible.
    So, one day in Thailand, I bought one of those things.
    It was one of the happiest days in my life.

  • @scottmuc2112
    @scottmuc2112 3 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    I commend you for designing an informative thumbnail image and the decision to not use affiliate links. I feel this really builds up your authenticity. Keep up the great work!

    • @MoPoppins
      @MoPoppins 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I don’t mind affiliate links, if they’ve already established their integrity, and have proven the products to be of solid quality.

    • @serenityjewel
      @serenityjewel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I need the freaking links! I don't want to keep looking for the stuff he's talking about. It's a pain.

  • @evelyncmawk3871
    @evelyncmawk3871 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    This is the most wonderful, short and demonstrated video. Thank you for sharing.

  • @johnniewalker7628
    @johnniewalker7628 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    The bug zapper and flashlight are must haves! The dehumidifier is not needed. Just use van’s air conditioner or heat with recycled air on. I recommend a small pressure cooker, we use it to cook rice and vegetable everyday.

    • @davej7458
      @davej7458 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Pressure cooker is a winner.

  • @steadmanuhlich6734
    @steadmanuhlich6734 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Very good video. Nice list of gadgets I have not seen mentioned in other similar videos (lists of things van lifers like). Happy Trails!

  • @stacypearce3945
    @stacypearce3945 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Didn't read all comments so somebody probably already commented, BUT, as for the bug thing...the one I have sits on a stand, but its the light that is Everything!!! You just set it up and it attracts in 1 minute!!! Love it

  • @edwardroche2480
    @edwardroche2480 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A lot of neat stuff there I live on a little houseboat in the Gulf of Mexico in the keys and I've been out on this boat for 23 years. There are a lot of little things that make a life a whole lot easier and more comfortable. Cannot overemphasize Good batteries good solar panels and a good inverter. I run a small refrigerator freezer off of the Sun. It runs all day when the sun's out and shuts down at night and in the morning everything's chill Frosty Freezy. Some of that food in their has not thawed out for over 6 months

  • @terribels
    @terribels 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I have a 20sqm home, and I also don't have a heater in my shower. I basically just use a bucket, a water dipper, and heat some water in my electric kettle. I heat it twice, and then use the heating time to prepare my clothes (if I'm going out), or get breakfast.

  • @MellowNomadicAdventures
    @MellowNomadicAdventures 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Really great items for living full-time in a van! Thanks for sharing!

  • @michaelhorton6166
    @michaelhorton6166 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    You didn't mention the satisfying "pop" when you actually hit the insect with the racquet! So many times the insect dodges but with the racquet, you KNOW when you hit the insect!

  • @ArtistInNewHampshire
    @ArtistInNewHampshire 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    We use a Black and Decker wet/dry Dustbuster in our Roadtrek Sprinter motorhome. Works great!

  • @robertgreno9942
    @robertgreno9942 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You might try putting the windshield reflective cover on the outside of the van using the magnetic studs to further reduce solar heat gain

  • @secondhandrose6214
    @secondhandrose6214 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Just tried to order the Opolar and went through the whole process... Reminds me of Omaze ... They don't ship to Quebec. This is getting old. Thanks for sharing though, these are great ideas!

  • @LincolnWorld
    @LincolnWorld 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You can get a USB extension cable to allow you to give the fan more distance. It may also run from a smartphone battery pack. If so, then you can practically put it anywhere.

  • @shannondoahmalloy
    @shannondoahmalloy 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Super helpful video -- and not just for vanlife! I go car camping a lot and many of these would be really handy

  • @jocelynelangis777
    @jocelynelangis777 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Fantastic useful indispensable gadgets that you showed here. Thanks for sharing. I really loved the magnetic lamp, dehumidifier, shower installation and the littles magnets where do they come from? So practical.
    Nice organized van that is for sure!

  • @pixelukulele401
    @pixelukulele401 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    You can get usb extension leads, so you could have more places to move your fan to. If you haven't discovered these already. 😊

  • @TheGreatMandalore
    @TheGreatMandalore 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is an amazing episode! I hope you'll do more with more expensive stuff (solar panels, portable batteries, etc)

  • @RakshadaShirley
    @RakshadaShirley 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I recognize the smoky air of Kamloops! I really questioned visiting there this past Summer. I will look into getting an air purifier. I love the fan and air pump. I don't have the shower set up like you do so that will be one of my next upgrades. I have the small vacuum but have yet to remember to use it. Thanks for the video.

  • @weston.weston
    @weston.weston 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Such a great idea for a video, I appreciate these suggestions!! I added it to my watch list so that I can return to it periodically because I didn't write down the suggestions but want to recall and purchase several of these items.

  • @rss608
    @rss608 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Never used a dehumidifier on our travels because we have roof ac. This does make sense for cold weather travel. have used most of the other stuff and would recommend them too except the magnets. they will cause havoc with ones electronics. recommend purchasing a battery load tester and JB Weld to carry on board.

  • @Oscubasteve
    @Oscubasteve 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Get the black n decker fly swatter from Lowes...best 10bucks spent

  • @12vLife
    @12vLife 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    4:21 +1 on the bug racket! I'm in Florida.

  • @XGigabowser51
    @XGigabowser51 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    With all those USB devices, and your limitation with fan placement, it might be worth it to invest into some USB extension cables. Lots of em on Amazon and such.

  • @BrittneyM7777
    @BrittneyM7777 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I can vouch for #7. Electronic bag zapper!! I have a pink one from tractor supply ($7) and it is amazing! Everyone should have one! Flys, gnats, and I got a couple bees in the house with one small zap

  • @grantbratrud4949
    @grantbratrud4949 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Very useful and informative video! And well-done qua video moreover. It's apparent the providers sincerely want to help... and they know what they're talking about!

  • @GinaKayLandis
    @GinaKayLandis 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I think I also saw your water filter! I have a Berkey and plan to take it with me on the road for travel. Thanks for your suggestions!!

  • @sofiahubbard4570
    @sofiahubbard4570 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hello There. Thank You Much for sharing such an importand gear with all of us!

  • @rutyael18
    @rutyael18 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Nice to see you guys. Very informative. That is your style and it works. Thank you.

  • @guylamullins3602
    @guylamullins3602 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I had one guy teach me how to cook canned foods by clipping a Vice grip to the can and just placing it on the camp fire.

    • @amandawilcox9638
      @amandawilcox9638 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Gayla, with the lioff or a couple of holes poked, right?!

  • @mamemckee2190
    @mamemckee2190 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great! Thanks for sharing what has worked for you.

  • @JuliaSugarbaker
    @JuliaSugarbaker 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow, this is AWE-SOME ! Great episode. Thanks

  • @livingworkingoutsidebox
    @livingworkingoutsidebox 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    These are great videos. Very helpful for viewers and content creators alike 👏

  • @vickilindberg6336
    @vickilindberg6336 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thank you for a practical, concise presentation.

  • @clrobinson1776
    @clrobinson1776 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I don’t remember what they’re called, but you can get a USB “extender” cord. USB to USB. I think I got mine @ BestBuy.

  • @patponce
    @patponce 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for making this list: Very useful! Where did you get the little magnets? We have a hard time finding some with a little loop like yours. Thanks!

  • @venice8725
    @venice8725 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow these are AMAZING recommendations!!! Thank you

  • @joyglocker8318
    @joyglocker8318 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thanks it's very helpful as I am at the beginning of converting my van and thinking and planing a lot.....

  • @amandanicole3999
    @amandanicole3999 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Awesome video as usual! I can tell a lot of thought and effort goes into them ❤️

  • @shamsshams20261
    @shamsshams20261 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks for the recommendations and do you know something? I installed a boat foot water pump in the sink, here in Spain nobody knows it for campers (only boats)and thanks to you for an excellent video that you explain it, I decided to install it.... Ah! I love your whale. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  • @mimiseeyou
    @mimiseeyou 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Check out RV “hour shower” on TH-cam. I ordered all the parts. Now I have to figure out how to make it 😂 but recycles your water with a filter… so you can shower for an hr with like 2 gallons.

  • @Nate_The_Great69
    @Nate_The_Great69 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I just use the handheld vacuum for the flys.

  • @0HARE
    @0HARE 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    These are all useful products that I will probably purchase.
    Thanks for the quality review.

  • @manikariestya
    @manikariestya 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    #6 Seagull products, I bought some of their items, the quality is good, the prices are slightly more expensive than Zebra.

  • @brbernard123
    @brbernard123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    It was so great to see you guys again! Would love an update on what you have been up to!! :)

  • @rigerige1803
    @rigerige1803 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Your youtube content are awesome ✌️

  • @justanotherday5531
    @justanotherday5531 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks for the video. Great information!😀

  • @Sparxdd
    @Sparxdd 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    How has traveling been through the pandemic? how has covid changed your business? I would love to hear the tidbits you two have learned in this time. awesome video!

  • @yorukkizigeziyor
    @yorukkizigeziyor 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Very nice video ☺👍

  • @Caitlin1928
    @Caitlin1928 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I've never heard of a portable shower like that before. A lot of van lifers could totally use that!
    I also didn't know there were electric fly swatters out there. What is so special about them that they need a battery for?

  • @liddlekiddle1962
    @liddlekiddle1962 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Hi, great video! I'm wondering what solar-powered generator you two are using. Thanks!

  • @mli3793
    @mli3793 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    A tip is if you want to heat alot of water easily like in a bucket. Just get one of the portable electric heaters or coil heaters. As long as you don't touch the water while it's on its much easier

    • @tjslam26
      @tjslam26 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Pretty good tip. I have one but not sure if it is indeed unsafe to put your hand in the water while it's on. I would never try though.

    • @mli3793
      @mli3793 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@tjslam26 Most of them have safety layers of rubber or similar material

  • @Whigu
    @Whigu 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    5:30 I think that it's better that way because you can always use USB extension cords when needed.

  • @simplybeingme
    @simplybeingme 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I love this video so much! Full of information!

  • @mimiseeyou
    @mimiseeyou 3 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    Alright nomads, let’s sling the links here for others: we are all ordering 😂

  • @adventuresingreyce4771
    @adventuresingreyce4771 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Your video was very helpful. Definitely getting the air purifier. The dehumidifier is an excellent idea. Thanks for your research and tips!

  • @macoyzcamp7912
    @macoyzcamp7912 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Wow ..thanks for the very helpful ideas because we are camper also..

  • @alexlarson833
    @alexlarson833 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Awesome! Thanks for the tips👍👍
    I’m also entering the contest for the van 🤞🤞🤞

  • @mishu3271
    @mishu3271 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    FYI - the air filter is not hepa. It is carbon infused like the ones found in better car filters.

  • @silvarainbowsparkle
    @silvarainbowsparkle 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Hello, people, don't forget about cable extenders. Find out what the name lf the usb plug is and then just get an extension cable (make sure you check wheter it is male or female) :)

  • @KeluargaRansel
    @KeluargaRansel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Very useful gears.

  • @marywrong7041
    @marywrong7041 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thanks for sharing.

  • @turkeyphant
    @turkeyphant หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Why use a 5v usb fan instead of 12V?

  • @koltrasten
    @koltrasten 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Get a battery-powered tire compressor from Xiaomi instead. It's cheap, tiny, durable and really easy to use (it can use either PSI or BAR so you don't have to do the math on the road) it's a real no-brainer for vanlife/overlanding

  • @sandrafromtexas1957
    @sandrafromtexas1957 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    wondering if you also have a link to the overhead lights you used in your van. I would like to do a van conversion also using the Inergy products. What did you do to get your lights to plug into the Apex,Kodiak, or Flex DC/1500

  • @agilityig
    @agilityig 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Fantastic video. I have several of these things already for my van, but there are quite a few that I’m going to search for. One thing I need to get is a fire extinguisher. Any thoughts or links for a good one for the van? I have a Transit also.

    • @ExploringAlternatives
      @ExploringAlternatives  3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Oh yeah, we forgot to mention that! We just got a pretty basic small one from Canadian Tire. We also have a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector. Thanks for watching :)

  • @Jmmondeau
    @Jmmondeau 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Excellent advice thanks.

  • @cathylynnpietranton
    @cathylynnpietranton 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thanks Matt for sharing.🙂

  • @ac7969
    @ac7969 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks for the video. Plleeeeeaaaase put links ❤❤❤

  • @cathythompson8734
    @cathythompson8734 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Useful, thanks for sharing.

  • @almamdani6564
    @almamdani6564 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I appreciate it that there are no financial incentives to taint the recommendation.

  • @andylin6560
    @andylin6560 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    for humidity try using cat litter in old socks

  • @docink6175
    @docink6175 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    you can by usb extension cords for your fan

  • @propergander1162
    @propergander1162 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This is so useful for us in the UK , their are many of us being made homeless by our government's madness . Many of us already live in vans bur at the moment we can't drive them as we have no fuel 🤔

  • @Jarg-d6l
    @Jarg-d6l 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    dehumidifiers and air purifiers are essentials?

  • @AbideinChristSealed
    @AbideinChristSealed 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    some items are missing in description...and links would be useful. Good ideas though!

  • @serenityjewel
    @serenityjewel 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I need the freaking links! I had to look for at least an hour for some of the stuff you're talking about. It was a pain.

  • @melusine826
    @melusine826 ปีที่แล้ว

    My van has fibreglass shell, not metal though i wish it was

  • @lindasteinbrenner8065
    @lindasteinbrenner8065 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Good info! Thanks!

  • @clarkspiemuncher24
    @clarkspiemuncher24 ปีที่แล้ว

    do you have a link to the fan please

  • @LifeBetweenTheDash
    @LifeBetweenTheDash 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Super products. Thx

  • @jjca_travel
    @jjca_travel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Good stuff!

  • @TURKTURKiYE
    @TURKTURKiYE ปีที่แล้ว +1

    thanks , from ISTANBUL

  • @jonjon9270
    @jonjon9270 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    What is the name of that solar powered generator?

  • @JasperAI-ChatGPT
    @JasperAI-ChatGPT 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    In my opinion, THE MOST IMPORTANT items to invest in for any vanlifer are those that give you the ability to earn money while you’re on the road and be capable of sustaining that lifestyle. Those items would include: -
    1. Laptop/PC
    2. Internet Access
    3. You’re own website
    4. Content creation equipment - writing software/camera/drone/editing software
    Everything and anything else is for comfort but pretty useless unless you can sustain yourself with an income.
    .

  • @geoffpriestley7310
    @geoffpriestley7310 ปีที่แล้ว

    If you pick the insect racket up do it by the handle . It hurts if you get hold the other pass it to your partner and she " accidentally " presses the button

  • @mohammadrezaahi4480
    @mohammadrezaahi4480 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Very nice

  • @pabzbisayangvloger7941
    @pabzbisayangvloger7941 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow thank u information

  • @Malumbrus
    @Malumbrus 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I have the same vacuum haha

    • @mimiseeyou
      @mimiseeyou 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Anyone have the model #? All the ones I’m seeing look flimsy and clunky.

  • @missirritated4872
    @missirritated4872 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    I wish i could start this journey

  • @brianrichard1768
    @brianrichard1768 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ozone generator after trip will remove all odors.

  • @TheMCvamp
    @TheMCvamp 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Love this vid

  • @plantlady65
    @plantlady65 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    Where did you get your water jug?

  • @yoshisquid3749
    @yoshisquid3749 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Do you have a link to the products?

    • @amandawilcox9638
      @amandawilcox9638 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Product names and companies are listed under the vid. Info section.

  • @hawaiidogs9277
    @hawaiidogs9277 2 ปีที่แล้ว

    Ty