You alluded to this, but there is SO much hype put on immediately building out a van before you hit the road. I also have a FTC and initally planned on doing that, but decided to do the minimum 1st (keeping it no build w removable bed etc) and decide what I wanted to build out after taking some trips. I quickly realized that I liked having space to move around in the back and the popular build outs would have made me feel very cramped. Two years later, I have taken some suggestions from your van (which I love) and have kept mine very simple , but cozy, for my 3-4 wk at a time adventures. I don't feel cramped and can easily remove everything if I need to use it for just cargo as well. SO glad I did not follow the 'traditional' build out path as I would have regretted it!
Parked next to an expensive van that usually has all the bells and whistles. Quickly noticed the couple was doing everything I do outside their van. The van was a mere shell. Empty. Assume it was fraction cost of similar vans. GENIUS.
Boondocking additional "checks" to consider before making a site decision. Know #1 location of a nearby reputable motel #2 location of grocery/mall/busy place #3 location of community park/senior center. You will have three "safe places" should you want a speedy exit without drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
I found making a physical list of what I used everyday, what I only used due to unexpected weather changes and then the list of what I never used. I also made a wish list. My power stations were my I can't do withouts and solar lights and splitter for the cigarette lighter or 12 volt or whatever they call it. Thank you for keeping us aware of things. Without you folks doing these videos I don't think my excursions to beautiful places would ever have happened. You gave me courage through knowledge!
AFTER my first 14 day solo car camping trip (tiny Chevy Park) - I literally pulled out everything that I brought on my trip and laid everything in two separate piles on either side of my car in driveway. On the driver’s side of the driveway, I put what I used/wore on the trip. On the passenger side of the driveway was what I did NOT use or wear on the 2 week trip. Then I wrote down on a piece of paper everything i used or wore on my 2 week trip. That way on my next trip I don’t have to rethink “what to take” as I have a record and know exactly what I will need/wear. So glad I thought to do that after my first trip! Takes the worry out of packing for all subsequent trips. 😊 🚙
Hello, these tips are valid even for those of us who live in houses or apartments, one tends to accumulate unnecessary things, turning our spaces into stressful chaos. Gracias 🙋🏾♀️🤗
As always great advice, Dee! I have been on the road for over two years now and finally ended up with 100% essential items and extra gear, mostly safety stuff. Being a former survival instructor I tend to collect gear for those "just in case" situations; which BTW hasn't happened in some 30,000 miles of travel. I was just like you when I started, over thinking that I need all my possessions to be safe, comfortable and warm. Well, I put about 500 pounds of stuff in a storage unit. That's after donating many items to Goodwill, some homeless people or to other van lifers who were in need. A couple items I think are vital are a good fire extinguisher and an ample first aid kit (which replaced my trauma kit that is in storage). I put together a Go Bag in case I break down in the boonies. It consists of a small backpack with survival gear, warmth apparel and good hiking boots (broken in and comfortable).
Yep! It’s a process I think we all go through and then realize it’s so much easier to let a lot of it go. I’ve been learning since my college days when my parents moved out of my childhood home and all I had to my name for in a small trunk. I think I realized then I didn’t need much to be comfortable.☺️
Agree with the Go Bag. Most "First Aid" kits are trash. Everyday cuts you handle with Betadine & paper towel wrapped in plastic tape. You do need large (3" x 6") padded gauze for REAL emergencies.
I really like your honest assessment of getting what you may need along the way ! When I drove semi truck for a living across country living on the road that was also the case than ! It's amazing to actually grasp it really doesn't take much stuff to thrive & live on the road traveling .. I didn't cook much back than .. I did have fruit & other healthy food to snack on .. & looked forward to one hot cooked meal each day .. No sugar & less carbs ..
Thank you. Yes, you get it. I realized that during college when all I possessed fit into a small trunk. I feel it taught me that I can get along fine with or without 🤗
@@LadyBugout Planning the drive makes a huge difference. Of course, being on a schedule meant not being able to stop for site seeing. Your day can change quickly if you stop to see something you hadn’t planned on. Your little van should make it easier to find parking.
The owner of the truck I drove my last 6 years out of 20 OTR is 6' 5" tall. I am 5'5" and female and have Choctaw and Cherokee mixed in with Scot, German & Czech. BUT I got all of the color from dem injuns in my family. 😅 It takes till the end of January for me to lighten up. He and his dispatcher just didn't get why I did not want loads that took me to Phoenix in the summer. You brown? Lady we need to see if you really have a license. And at truck stops I would find the bros and try to park close to them. They liked my 50s rock and roll and I never felt unsafe around them. Absolutely can't say the same about rednecks. No matter who you are or what you drive PARK SAFE . . . DRIVE SAFER
The blooper(s) at the end was hilarious 😂. A very impressive display of equanimity in the face of things not going as planned. Yep, on all of those mistakes (learning experiences). I made most of them. Still "learning". Also, very pleased to see that you didn't include the decision to not have a refrigerator as a mistake. Your commitment to simplicity and minimalism is what makes this channel a great resource.
Having a van itself is a “luxury.” I’m in my smallish SUV with my cat-his “gear” takes up more of the “living space than mine. Still trying to figure out the best litterbox situation. Insofar as my “litterbox” goes, a real innovation has been the “SheWee” device. Really makes #1 a lot easier. 🌿
Thank you Dee. You continue to educate and lead the community with your honesty and open communication style. Thank you for who you are are and all you do.
Great Tips Dee! Thank You! I like the tip about having a "Plan B" for where you plan on staying that night. Always good to have a "Plan B" One adage I would to add is, that the more stuff in your vehicle makes your weight on your vehicle that much more, cutting down on fuel efficiency and braking power etc.. Just keep that in mind when you are adding stuff to you camper. Kinda like " Do I need it or do I want it" Cheers.
t always sends chills down my spine to see vans full of objects and furniture. That's why, of all the types of layouts I've seen on the internet, yours is my favorite ever, because I also feel better in minimalist and airy environments. Bravissima! 👏👏👏👏💐
Another thing I did was I got rid of my Bowls and silverware. Replaced them with paper plates and plastic ware. Reason being is I don’t have to waste water for washing and I was carrying around a table setting for six when it’s only me to eat in my trailer.
Great tips Dee! I have been downsizing in my home life (big time) for the last 3 years. I think some of your van life tips also work for home life as well. Have an awesome week and your hair looks gorgeous btw!🥰
Really great advice. Thanks. I’m just packing up now. I packed everything; now I’m going through it and getting rid of things. We all tend to pack too much.
I consider trying car camping but definitely couldn't live in a vehicle ..park go Walk an hour or two then what, sit in the vehicle the rest of the time and that's even weather permitting. I need a house to move around in. Kudos to anyone who can do this because it could take a toll on someones mentality 😊
You always have such practical advice which is one of the many reasons I follow you. I only do this part time for now but am looking to move more to full time when life permits. BTW, I love that you are letting your hair go natural. It looks great on you!
Great advice, Dee! I host make n take parties aboard my bus and the 1st thing that HAD to go was the Keurig. I always forgot to stow it away and it went flying one too many times! 😅. I park near a pub or coffee shop, that way, my participants can select what they want, and then come aboard to enjoy the party. It’s a win for the pub or cafe, my guests and the poor Keurig.
I usually only travel for a couple of weeks at a time. When I return home, I remove anything I didn't use and either leave it home or dispose of it. My biggest problem is carrying too much food with me! I guess I'm afraid I won't be able to find a grocery store😂 A solo person does not need to be able to feed a family of five for a week!
With regard to planning ahead. It's a good idea to plan your route to your destination then if necessary make adjustments. I have a binder with most of my past areas that I've stayed at. The names and addresses of the locations and relevant information such as price, phone #, website, amenities and such. It's good for planning future trips.
@@LadyBugout I learned early on that I have a bad memory when traveling. So I need to record things or I'll never remember any special places I stayed at.
Nothing like traveling with a 90-lb puppy to encourage me to check that things are battened down before I turn the key! Anything that hits the floor will be chewed… Thanks for your excellent videos and sharing your experience!
Really good advice. Less is more in a wee Ford Transit. I think of mine as a luxurious upgrade to my backpacking tent. Kind of a Zen meditation room on wheels.
You have some of the most light and airy looking essentials for yourself-it's refreshing! And I can also see the importance of essentials being kept to a minimum! Thanks for sharing!!🤗🏞✨
Thank you for another great video. Every time I get back to my homebase I purge the adventure vehicle and update my packing list. Just because it came in the vehicle when you bought it does not mean you have to keep it if you are not using it. Our older Class B van had 4 place settings, but only 2 seat belts. I have been removing the items I don't use and replaced Correl dishes with stainless steel because stainless steel is easier to clean, lighter and does not brake. I find with less I have more time and my mind can relax. Thank you again for your videos, I have enjoyed every one. Maybe our paths will cross sometime out on the road.
Great video Dee. I made a ‘pre departure camping checklist’ because I’m able to forget my name on occasion 🙂 An often overlooked item is the van part of the camper. The last two trips to Florida, I took my Promaster City in to the shop for an inspection, oil change and tires change over. Once on the road, it’s a morning once around checking fluids and tire pressure. It seems ‘over the top’ for a micro camper, but not noticing a possible problem can leave you stranded. I also carry a battery starter pack (I think you mentioned having one in a previous video. My DYI electrical system also doubles as a start battery, but having that little power pack sure is nice. Love your videos, keep ‘em coming! 🤗
I started with ‘too much stuff’, too! I feel like maybe I was a Girl Scout in a past life and I had to try to beat this out of myself for van life. 🤣 Some of your points line right up with my van life on a budget video. Even with very different vans and ways of doing vanlife, it’s interesting how much in common there can be. 😊
Thank you for all the great tips. Yes! I have too much stuff. I'm now going to have to get a storage area if I give up my home. In NZ we have to be self contained if we want to camp in many places. So I say.... I have a fixed toilet but no where to store my stuff. I have bought a ready made built out mini van so dont really have much choice of the lay out which can be a bit of a pain but I can get into the back area from my drivers seat and out the back which was something I wanted and thats why I bought this mini van .
Holy cow you look beautiful...inside and out... watching your channel for forever...I usually don't post...but wanted you to know how I love your videos and that your new hair style looks amazing on you😃
Thanks Dee! I agree with all of these especially decision fatigue! And that your hobbies take up valuable space, so try to find a way to keep them but on a micro scale.
LOLOL! The end part where you’re trying to video in the noisy area was me this past week while there was a council worker using a jackhammer outside my neighbour’s house. 🤦🏼♀️🤣🤷🏼♀️
I am intending to get a VW caddy maxi, the first thing I will do is a cow catcher with an extended roof rack that goes over the bonnet as well so I can have shade on the windscreen by means of solar panel over it and a good solar system.
Determining what is essential .. great place to start ! Thriving on ," Minimalism ". Figuring out along the way as you go what works for your set up is awesome ! Does every new place you encounter as you travel entice taking on more stuff ... lol ? I have watched so many videos Nomads put out that reveal they haul so much stuff around with them their poor vehicle has the task of making the journey heavily loaded ... weight issues seem to be over looked .. I wish them well with what they have selected ... I have to constantly re-evaluate do I really use this or need this ?
I always ask the question, “is it worth the space” 😜 that keeps me from taking on most non essentials. If something is small and brings me joy or doesn’t take up too much space I’ll sometimes take it on🤭
Yup, some good tips, indeed - ones that seem like common sense to anyone who has been on the road for a while, but may not be for the newbee. .However(?) one of the best parts of this particular video, me being tired and giddy, was the out-takes at the end. Hahahahaha! 😂😅❤
Since my rent will be raised if I renew, I'll be moving into a van when my lease is up. I have a van but I'm not sure if it will be the one I take yet. Anyway, I've been spending the weekend sorting through my stuff. I cleared out a wall in my walkin closet, well the floor space, and all my van life stuff I am taking is going there. It's full already. Lol sadly, the majority is books. I know, I know. I don't need all those books, but I want them because that's one of things I can't wait to be able to have time to do. Lol and, the majority are star wars books. I'm a nerd. Hehe I still have a lot of sorting to do but I will keep your voice in my head as I am doing so. 😊 Happy trails!
Hey hey Dee 🥰 What a great video👍 , so much "stuff".... just in life 😉..... This was a great video not only for van life but for everyone in life ... 😉💫🥰🙏🎉 Cute bloopers 😜
I now have my little car. It's a hatchback and very economical to run - diesel. I'm not living in it. I have stocked it for camping with rear awning- tarps. You can't see any of that for the shelf at the back.
Great idea. Puzzled why more SUV campers don't use awnings. Can pack down to size of a sleep bag. It doubles camp space. Found bright triangular awning at thrift store - about 8' x,14'. Tie it trees for for sun & privacy.
Hi Dee! I’ve been watching your videos for quite some time, in fact, you are the inspiration for my current life! I’ve been in my van full-time for a couple of months now, and I’m really happy! One question I have is how do you meet people on the road?
That is awesome! The first thing I tried was showing up at van events that looked interesting to me. I did that on and off for the first year. Little by little, a few people from each event started ‘caravanning’ together from time to time. We formed a small group that meet in different areas at different times. I don’t attend as many events now, but from the first few I probably found some of my best vanlife friends! Hope that helps. You got this!!!💃🏻💪🏼🙌🏼
Dee, as always great vlog. Your insightful advice is sure to help everyone starting out on their van life journey. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving blessings to you and your family ❤
Well, I love your video. Fantastic you touch the lotto basis and explained it well. Zoe is best part was making up some coffee. That was the best part but love your style you’re doing a wonderful job. Keep up the good work hopefully one day we’ll meet up and have some coffee until then happy trails.
You alluded to this, but there is SO much hype put on immediately building out a van before you hit the road. I also have a FTC and initally planned on doing that, but decided to do the minimum 1st (keeping it no build w removable bed etc) and decide what I wanted to build out after taking some trips. I quickly realized that I liked having space to move around in the back and the popular build outs would have made me feel very cramped. Two years later, I have taken some suggestions from your van (which I love) and have kept mine very simple , but cozy, for my 3-4 wk at a time adventures. I don't feel cramped and can easily remove everything if I need to use it for just cargo as well. SO glad I did not follow the 'traditional' build out path as I would have regretted it!
Yep!!! It really helps to start that way☺️
Parked next to an expensive van that usually has all the bells and whistles. Quickly noticed the couple was doing everything I do outside their van. The van was a mere shell. Empty. Assume it was fraction cost of similar vans. GENIUS.
Boondocking additional "checks" to consider before making a site decision. Know #1 location of a nearby reputable motel #2 location of grocery/mall/busy place #3 location of community park/senior center. You will have three "safe places" should you want a speedy exit without drawing unnecessary attention to yourself.
Yes, great suggestions!!!
I found making a physical list of what I used everyday, what I only used due to unexpected weather changes and then the list of what I never used. I also made a wish list. My power stations were my I can't do withouts and solar lights and splitter for the cigarette lighter or 12 volt or whatever they call it. Thank you for keeping us aware of things. Without you folks doing these videos I don't think my excursions to beautiful places would ever have happened. You gave me courage through knowledge!
That is great advice, Shirley 💃🏻🐞🚗
The first thing you'll need in your new van is quick, bullet proof privacy. Fast setup when parked in public. 👍 Rock on 🙂
Yep! Great suggestion. 🤗
AFTER my first 14 day solo car camping trip (tiny Chevy Park) - I literally pulled out everything that I brought on my trip and laid everything in two separate piles on either side of my car in driveway. On the driver’s side of the driveway, I put what I used/wore on the trip. On the passenger side of the driveway was what I did NOT use or wear on the 2 week trip. Then I wrote down on a piece of paper everything i used or wore on my 2 week trip. That way on my next trip I don’t have to rethink “what to take” as I have a record and know exactly what I will need/wear. So glad I thought to do that after my first trip! Takes the worry out of packing for all subsequent trips. 😊 🚙
Yep. I feel like that is what a lot of vanlifers do as well. I quite regularly find myself sifting and sorting out what I do and do not need 😝
Smart!!!
Hello, these tips are valid even for those of us who live in houses or apartments, one tends to accumulate unnecessary things, turning our spaces into stressful chaos.
Gracias 🙋🏾♀️🤗
Glad it was helpful for that too. ☺️
As always great advice, Dee! I have been on the road for over two years now and finally ended up with 100% essential items and extra gear, mostly safety stuff. Being a former survival instructor I tend to collect gear for those "just in case" situations; which BTW hasn't happened in some 30,000 miles of travel. I was just like you when I started, over thinking that I need all my possessions to be safe, comfortable and warm. Well, I put about 500 pounds of stuff in a storage unit. That's after donating many items to Goodwill, some homeless people or to other van lifers who were in need. A couple items I think are vital are a good fire extinguisher and an ample first aid kit (which replaced my trauma kit that is in storage). I put together a Go Bag in case I break down in the boonies. It consists of a small backpack with survival gear, warmth apparel and good hiking boots (broken in and comfortable).
Yep! It’s a process I think we all go through and then realize it’s so much easier to let a lot of it go. I’ve been learning since my college days when my parents moved out of my childhood home and all I had to my name for in a small trunk. I think I realized then I didn’t need much to be comfortable.☺️
Agree with the Go Bag. Most "First Aid" kits are trash. Everyday cuts you handle with Betadine & paper towel wrapped in plastic tape. You do need large (3" x 6") padded gauze for REAL emergencies.
I really like your honest assessment of getting what you may need along the way ! When I drove semi truck for a living across country living on the road that was also the case than ! It's amazing to actually grasp it really doesn't take much stuff to thrive & live on the road traveling .. I didn't cook much back than .. I did have fruit & other healthy food to snack on .. & looked forward to one hot cooked meal each day .. No sugar & less carbs ..
Thank you. Yes, you get it. I realized that during college when all I possessed fit into a small trunk. I feel it taught me that I can get along fine with or without 🤗
When I was an over the road truck driver the most stressful part was finding parking, and timing when I drove thru high population cities.
Yes, that is very stressful! Truck drivers usually have the best advice.
@@LadyBugout Planning the drive makes a huge difference. Of course, being on a schedule meant not being able to stop for site seeing. Your day can change quickly if you stop to see something you hadn’t planned on. Your little van should make it easier to find parking.
The owner of the truck I drove my last 6 years out of 20 OTR is 6' 5" tall. I am 5'5" and female and have Choctaw and Cherokee mixed in with Scot, German & Czech.
BUT I got all of the color from dem injuns in my family. 😅 It takes till the end of January for me to lighten up.
He and his dispatcher just didn't get why I did not want loads that took me to Phoenix in the summer. You brown? Lady we need to see if you really have a license.
And at truck stops I would find the bros and try to park close to them. They liked my 50s rock and roll and I never felt unsafe around them. Absolutely can't say the same about rednecks.
No matter who you are or what you drive
PARK SAFE . . . DRIVE SAFER
Your little van is so cute. You are so organized. Thanks for the video.
Good to see you!!! 🥰
Whoa! Glamour hair. Looks nice.
Awww thank you!!!😝
The blooper(s) at the end was hilarious 😂. A very impressive display of equanimity in the face of things not going as planned. Yep, on all of those mistakes (learning experiences). I made most of them. Still "learning". Also, very pleased to see that you didn't include the decision to not have a refrigerator as a mistake. Your commitment to simplicity and minimalism is what makes this channel a great resource.
Thank you, Gwen! Yes, I feel like I am always still learning more and more😝
Having a van itself is a “luxury.” I’m in my smallish SUV with my cat-his “gear” takes up more of the “living space than mine. Still trying to figure out the best litterbox situation.
Insofar as my “litterbox” goes, a real innovation has been the “SheWee” device. Really makes #1 a lot easier. 🌿
Yes indeed!!!
Don't forget a medicine/first aid kit!..fire extinguisher..😊
True!!
Hot water bottle to keep warm and put inside bad to pre-warm!
Yesssss!!!!! Great tip.
I don’t believe I have heard anyone else actually say “start with less and build”. Smart, smart, smart!!
Thank you ☺️
Great tips!!! Thank you for sharing! One tip is to go one short camping trips to see what works first, before going out for longer trips.
Yes, that is a great tip!💃🏻
Thank you Dee. You continue to educate and lead the community with your honesty and open communication style. Thank you for who you are are and all you do.
You are so welcome. I appreciate the kind words🥰
Great Tips Dee! Thank You! I like the tip about having a "Plan B" for where you plan on staying that night. Always good to have a "Plan B" One adage I would to add is, that the more stuff in your vehicle makes your weight on your vehicle that much more, cutting down on fuel efficiency and braking power etc.. Just keep that in mind when you are adding stuff to you camper. Kinda like " Do I need it or do I want it" Cheers.
Great tip! I am constantly asking myself that question 😜
t always sends chills down my spine to see vans full of objects and furniture. That's why, of all the types of layouts I've seen on the internet, yours is my favorite ever, because I also feel better in minimalist and airy environments. Bravissima! 👏👏👏👏💐
I appreciate that. Yes, I find I am calmer in minimalist environments too 😊
I am the Queen of having too much stuff!( I ve told you before how I am STILL downsizing. Thank you 🙏🏻 you are so right about these things
You are so welcome🥰
Another thing I did was I got rid of my Bowls and silverware. Replaced them with paper plates and plastic ware. Reason being is I don’t have to waste water for washing and I was carrying around a table setting for six when it’s only me to eat in my trailer.
That’s a good idea. Yes… I only have a set of one 😜
@@LadyBugout yes! I find that if I have other people I’m going to eat with it’s usually at a restaurant anyway
Great tips Dee! I have been downsizing in my home life (big time) for the last 3 years. I think some of your van life tips also work for home life as well. Have an awesome week and your hair looks gorgeous btw!🥰
That’s a big task!!! Yes, I think these do apply to downsizing of any kind.☺️
Really great advice. Thanks. I’m just packing up now. I packed everything; now I’m going through it and getting rid of things. We all tend to pack too much.
Yep!!! It’s number one thing I hear too😜
I consider trying car camping but definitely couldn't live in a vehicle ..park go Walk an hour or two then what, sit in the vehicle the rest of the time and that's even weather permitting. I need a house to move around in. Kudos to anyone who can do this because it could take a toll on someones mentality 😊
Yep, definitely not for everyone!
Maybe give it an 18 hour trial. Just a few items - like a picnic. Go somewhere "exciting:. The adventure may outweigh the negatives.
@@jreton8971 True 🙂
You always have such practical advice which is one of the many reasons I follow you. I only do this part time for now but am looking to move more to full time when life permits. BTW, I love that you are letting your hair go natural. It looks great on you!
I’m glad it will be helpful to you! Thank you☺️
Love your van setup. It has a pretty and cozy vibe without clutter.
Thank you Joan☺️
Good information! We all over estimate the stuff we need and end up with a lot of storage. 😎
Yes we do😜
Your hair looks really nice.
Thank you so much😊
Driving style helps keep things on the shelf 😀
Yes it does!😜
Great advice, Dee! I host make n take parties aboard my bus and the 1st thing that HAD to go was the Keurig. I always forgot to stow it away and it went flying one too many times! 😅. I park near a pub or coffee shop, that way, my participants can select what they want, and then come aboard to enjoy the party. It’s a win for the pub or cafe, my guests and the poor Keurig.
Love that! Perfect compromise🙌🏼
Excellent advice. Thanks.
My pleasure!🥰
I usually only travel for a couple of weeks at a time. When I return home, I remove anything I didn't use and either leave it home or dispose of it. My biggest problem is carrying too much food with me! I guess I'm afraid I won't be able to find a grocery store😂 A solo person does not need to be able to feed a family of five for a week!
I do the same.
😂 yep…it happens
Lo,I learned that on my first practice run....😂
Seriously think "to much food" must be sign of a past trauma. Initially do OK, then keep stopping & buying more.
You’re beautiful! Be safe!❤
Thank you🥰
With regard to planning ahead. It's a good idea to plan your route to your destination then if necessary make adjustments. I have a binder with most of my past areas that I've stayed at. The names and addresses of the locations and relevant information such as price, phone #, website, amenities and such. It's good for planning future trips.
That is super organized!!! Impressive ☺️
@@LadyBugout I learned early on that I have a bad memory when traveling. So I need to record things or I'll never remember any special places I stayed at.
Nothing like traveling with a 90-lb puppy to encourage me to check that things are battened down before I turn the key! Anything that hits the floor will be chewed…
Thanks for your excellent videos and sharing your experience!
Yes, I imagine it would ☺️
Number 1, couldn’t agree more…
Yep. It’s something I hear all the time too from other nomads!!!
Thanks so much for your tips! Very funny the backstage! 😂😂😂
Glad you enjoyed it! 🤭
Oh my!!! I have enough STUFF for 3 vans but no van. 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂
😂😂😂😂
Really good advice. Less is more in a wee Ford Transit. I think of mine as a luxurious upgrade to my backpacking tent. Kind of a Zen meditation room on wheels.
Nice!!! Me too😊
Great advice Dee! At the beginning I just loaded the basics and then modified a bit at a time, and it’s a constant work in progress!
Love that! It’s really the way to do it🤗
Good to know when moving forward.
Hope all is well and as always be safe, stay well and be blessed ❤
Yes, thank you🥰
Great information, speaking of bad roads, avoid I10 in Louisiana, that road rattles everything.🤦♂
Thanks for the head’s up 😜
I know this about vanlife but i wish i had all that hair!
lol 😂
Looking good! As usual!! 🤩
Thank you! 🤗
@@LadyBugout I bet you get that from everybody? 👀
Good and helpful information. Thankyou and safe travels 🚐
Glad it was helpful!☺️
You have some of the most light and airy looking essentials for yourself-it's refreshing! And I can also see the importance of essentials being kept to a minimum! Thanks for sharing!!🤗🏞✨
Thank you, Maxine!☺️
Good things you talked about. Good to see you again. 💐
Thank you. Good to see you too☺️
Thank you for another great video. Every time I get back to my homebase I purge the adventure vehicle and update my packing list. Just because it came in the vehicle when you bought it does not mean you have to keep it if you are not using it. Our older Class B van had 4 place settings, but only 2 seat belts. I have been removing the items I don't use and replaced Correl dishes with stainless steel because stainless steel is easier to clean, lighter and does not brake. I find with less I have more time and my mind can relax. Thank you again for your videos, I have enjoyed every one. Maybe our paths will cross sometime out on the road.
Yes! I find I am able to relax more with less stuff too… clears the clutter of my mind 😝
Your bloopers are funny. . . . I'll never forget that time you did an unboxing at that cabin LOL you are too funny! :o)
Awww thanks. I’m glad someone appreciates my silliness😜
Lovely video as usual . As a solo female vanlifer like yourself , great advice ❤
Thank you! Glad you enjoyed☺️
Hey Ms. Dee! You beat the traffic noises! Epic battle !
😜 I tried!!!
Great video Dee. I made a ‘pre departure camping checklist’ because I’m able to forget my name on occasion 🙂
An often overlooked item is the van part of the camper. The last two trips to Florida, I took my Promaster City in to the shop for an inspection, oil change and tires change over.
Once on the road, it’s a morning once around checking fluids and tire pressure.
It seems ‘over the top’ for a micro camper, but not noticing a possible problem can leave you stranded.
I also carry a battery starter pack (I think you mentioned having one in a previous video.
My DYI electrical system also doubles as a start battery, but having that little power pack sure is nice.
Love your videos, keep ‘em coming! 🤗
Nice! Yep, I service my van regularly too. Gotta take care of her-she takes care of me!!!
Great suggestions! My struggle right now would def be clothes and shoes.
Every little step counts 😊
I would be in the to much stuff category.Thanks for the info.
It always seems to be true at first 😜
It never has to be that complicated that is for sure. ❤ Great tips. Love the bloopers too! 😆
You know as well as I do 💃🏻😝🤗
Thank you for the useful information! I love you bloopers !😊
Glad you like them!😝
I drive a red Promaster City, so always enjoy getting ideas from your little red van. Thanks for all of your great videos.
Nice!!! Those are great little vans too.
Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!🫶🏼
I started with ‘too much stuff’, too! I feel like maybe I was a Girl Scout in a past life and I had to try to beat this out of myself for van life. 🤣
Some of your points line right up with my van life on a budget video. Even with very different vans and ways of doing vanlife, it’s interesting how much in common there can be. 😊
Yes, I saw that video and was thinking the same! Hahahah I can relate🤗
@@LadyBugout It hardly surprises me that we have some common ideas. 😊
😂😂😂😂 so funny next to the traffic. Your so right I did buy so much I never use . Greetings from Holland ⭐️🇳🇱
Glad you enjoyed it!!!
Good advice as always Dee. Hug's from across the pond.
Thanks so much☺️
Excellent info. Thanks Dee!! Take care and safe travels 😊❤️
Thank you! You too!💃🏻🚗🐞
Good information, thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Thank you for all the great tips. Yes! I have too much stuff. I'm now going to have to get a storage area if I give up my home. In NZ we have to be self contained if we want to camp in many places. So I say.... I have a fixed toilet but no where to store my stuff. I have bought a ready made built out mini van so dont really have much choice of the lay out which can be a bit of a pain but I can get into the back area from my drivers seat and out the back which was something I wanted and thats why I bought this mini van .
You are welcome! Yes, good to know the rules too. Very important.😊
So true about decision burnout. Downtown is very vital for longterm travel.
Yes. 💃🏻🐞🚗
All great tips and suggestions!! Most of all..always good to see you! 🙂👋🥰
🤣🤣 road noise!!!
Likewise!!!
Love your tips! Thanks for another wonderful video.
Thank you so much☺️
Still looking good Lady Dee. Still missing you. Be safe. Be well.
Thank you☺️
Holy cow you look beautiful...inside and out... watching your channel for forever...I usually don't post...but wanted you to know how I love your videos and that your new hair style looks amazing on you😃
That is very kind of you to say! Thank you and thank you for supporting my channel for so long 🥰
Thank you for sharing
You are very welcome!☺️
All great suggestions. 👍
Glad you like them! 😊
Hello again from the heart ❤️ of Illinois USA 🇺🇸 Dee.
Hello, Rita!!!
Thanks Dee! I agree with all of these especially decision fatigue! And that your hobbies take up valuable space, so try to find a way to keep them but on a micro scale.
You are so welcome! Yep, it is important to keep doing what you love!!!
Ha! Yes, my whole bus is a mobile crafting bus, so I have to juggle keeping crafting supplies plentiful for my guests, and stealth my personal items.
Love you home, I watch you and lulu’s way. Both small véhicules. The more I watch the more I want to retire and hit the road.
I love Lulu’s channel. She has a great build!
LOLOL! The end part where you’re trying to video in the noisy area was me this past week while there was a council worker using a jackhammer outside my neighbour’s house. 🤦🏼♀️🤣🤷🏼♀️
😂🤣😂 omg I can imagine. The other day I was having an issue with a rooster every two minutes 😝
@@LadyBugout Damn other people and things getting in the way of making videos. *shakes fist in their general direction* 🤣
I am LOVING your hair so much! Thanks for the helpful video, Dee.
Thank you☺️
Very helpful ❤️ thank you so much 🥰
Glad it was helpful!😊
Awesome presentation, thanks all will be useful.
Glad it was helpful!😊
I am intending to get a VW caddy maxi, the first thing I will do is a cow catcher with an extended roof rack that goes over the bonnet as well so I can have shade on the windscreen by means of solar panel over it and a good solar system.
Sounds like a great plan!💃🏻
Thank you for sharing. Very good advice.
You are so welcome! Glad it was helpful☺️
Dear Dee as always very informative video …so glad to see you doing well ..have a great weekend and as always be careful and safe!
Thank you, Vicki! You too🥰
Determining what is essential .. great place to start ! Thriving on ," Minimalism ". Figuring out along the way as you go what works for your set up is awesome ! Does every new place you encounter as you travel entice taking on more stuff ... lol ? I have watched so many videos Nomads put out that reveal they haul so much stuff around with them their poor vehicle has the task of making the journey heavily loaded ... weight issues seem to be over looked .. I wish them well with what they have selected ... I have to constantly re-evaluate do I really use this or need this ?
I always ask the question, “is it worth the space” 😜 that keeps me from taking on most non essentials. If something is small and brings me joy or doesn’t take up too much space I’ll sometimes take it on🤭
Love the video and the outtakes!!
Thank you!!!
So many great thoughts!!
Hey girl!!! You already know all of this though 🤭
What a beautiful woman! Keep up the excellent videos mam!
Thank you kindly☺️🐞💃🏻🚗
If you knew ahead of time would you have went? Wasn't it more fun to find out on your own? Thanks for your video!
Yes and yes!!!☺️
Yup, some good tips, indeed - ones that seem like common sense to anyone who has been on the road for a while, but may not be for the newbee.
.However(?) one of the best parts of this particular video, me being tired and giddy, was the out-takes at the end. Hahahahaha! 😂😅❤
I’m glad you enjoyed it😜
I you no longer have a home base, you may need all for all the stuff you have to handle.
Since my rent will be raised if I renew, I'll be moving into a van when my lease is up. I have a van but I'm not sure if it will be the one I take yet. Anyway, I've been spending the weekend sorting through my stuff. I cleared out a wall in my walkin closet, well the floor space, and all my van life stuff I am taking is going there. It's full already. Lol sadly, the majority is books. I know, I know. I don't need all those books, but I want them because that's one of things I can't wait to be able to have time to do. Lol and, the majority are star wars books. I'm a nerd. Hehe I still have a lot of sorting to do but I will keep your voice in my head as I am doing so. 😊 Happy trails!
That’s awesome! Hahah I’m not sure my voice in your head will be very comforting 😝 ah yes, books!!! There are always libraries to fall back on🤭
One of my fav things to do when weather bad is find a public library.
@@jreton8971 I do love libraries
:) GO Dee! well done and said! Thanks MUCH for sharing! ALL the BEST and Cheers from Left Coast! ! :)
Thank you! You too!☺️
Thank you!
You are very welcome!
Hey hey Dee 🥰
What a great video👍 , so much "stuff".... just in life 😉..... This was a great video not only for van life but for everyone in life ... 😉💫🥰🙏🎉
Cute bloopers 😜
Glad you liked it!!🥰
Your hair looks FAB! Love the tips and the bloopers! 🥰
Thanks so much, Carmen 🥰
I now have my little car. It's a hatchback and very economical to run - diesel. I'm not living in it. I have stocked it for camping with rear awning- tarps. You can't see any of that for the shelf at the back.
Nice!!! That’s the way to keep it comfortable.🤗
Great idea. Puzzled why more SUV campers don't use awnings. Can pack down to size of a sleep bag. It doubles camp space. Found bright triangular awning at thrift store - about 8' x,14'. Tie it trees for for sun & privacy.
I don’t know how it happens but i end up with way too much stuff every fee minths. As always good ideas. Thanks for sharing
You and me both!😜
Hi Dee! I’ve been watching your videos for quite some time, in fact, you are the inspiration for my current life! I’ve been in my van full-time for a couple of months now, and I’m really happy!
One question I have is how do you meet people on the road?
That is awesome! The first thing I tried was showing up at van events that looked interesting to me. I did that on and off for the first year. Little by little, a few people from each event started ‘caravanning’ together from time to time. We formed a small group that meet in different areas at different times. I don’t attend as many events now, but from the first few I probably found some of my best vanlife friends! Hope that helps. You got this!!!💃🏻💪🏼🙌🏼
Dee, as always great vlog. Your insightful advice is sure to help everyone starting out on their van life journey. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving blessings to you and your family ❤
Thank you. You have a great Thanksgiving too☺️
I thank you for your suggestions
You are very welcome!!!
Well, I love your video. Fantastic you touch the lotto basis and explained it well. Zoe is best part was making up some coffee. That was the best part but love your style you’re doing a wonderful job. Keep up the good work hopefully one day we’ll meet up and have some coffee until then happy trails.
Glad you enjoyed it! ☺️