hi guys nice film. we couldn't go back to a diesel...there are e Kangoo camper vans but you cook outside...i used to have 2 vw vans and they were so stylish but all my money went to the mechanic...electric retro vw would be much better but expensive. good luck in your van quest.
Love what you do here ❤ IF you get a camper van or mobilehome, Most campers have a hitch for a bike rack. Most campers are NOT allowed to tow the weight of a trailer and the ami!! As an Aixam Crossline driver, i converted my vehicle with a hitch so i can pull a small trailer. Maximum weight of the trailer is half of what your vehicle weighs. So if the ami is 300kg, you can tow 125kg. And yes, i know an electric vehicle is hard to modify for a hitch.
A camper is pretty much the most fun way to travel. I have rented a camper a few times and, among other places, we went to Scandinavia with it. In total, I have rented a camper five times in my life and we still look back on those trips with great pleasure!
You could think about a Citroën Berlingo / Peugeot Partner, VW Caddy with a camper interior AND a much bigger Decathlon Tent and more comfortable stuff. There are lightweight trailers, for example from Woodford, that can transport an Ami and it is no problem for a Caddy, Berlingo, Partner to tow this . Just an advise from a petrolhead and automotive professional!
60k is absolutely nothing mileage wise Tim. It’s a van, it’s used to be in abused and hammered up and down the motorway! Lauren is over next week, she says see you & Mr Boo at Bettys for a beverage!
🐞Hi Tim and Mr. Boo! Now you've gone right up my alley! I have been looking at motorhomes and campers for months, and I love those ones on the Mercedes chassis! They are incredible, but very$$$! I was going to suggest renting, but then you spoke about it...I had no idea that you needed to be a licensed driver for 2 years before you could rent one! How silly. (I've been driving since I was a teenager in 1976 and had been my Dad's co-driver on his long haul camping trips!)... they let you buy one and drive it, but not rent one? I guess it's all about liability and insurance, n'est pas? But yes, those smaller van conversions are also a good option, (less $) because you can also get awning extensions for rainy weather so you can extend your living space. I must say, I laughed my head off when Tim viewed the portable toilet trailer! Seriously, I have never seen anything like that before. A trailer that's all toilet! (I'd not laugh at that especially for all of us with 'aged' bits in our nether regions that require nocturnal facilities...lol...okay, I laughed...)
Someone once asked Elton John what was the difference between Freddie Mercury and the Varre Valley. He replied I don't know, I've never been up the Varre Valley!
I am not an RV person myself, but I have recently watched several RV videos, and from what I have seen you've got to put years of research into the subject before being able to make an informed decision regarding a purchase. At that point, enough time will have passed that you will be able to rent one anyway. One important bit is that Corona has upset supply/demand and the market has not settled yet (neither new nor used); so you can't rely on the depreciation of your purchase to be limited - once all the RVs bought during the pandemic hit the 2nd-hand market, the prices might tumble. Then there are all the differences in maintenance/longevity/unique problems that exist between the different forms of RV (gutted regular van vs. cut-out van; sandwich panels vs. plastic shell, etc.). Apart from the specifics of your driver's license (height, width, length, weight, load), there apparently is also the issue in France of the differences in toll road fees. For example, if you RV is too high, it is classed as a lorry, etc.
Here in the states they drop considerably once you drive off lot - but you 2 are in the perfect spot to explore- get a van and build it out on a budget just make sure your brand of van is reliable ❤️
You could look at something smaller - all those vans you looked at here are w - i - d - e compared with Elton, and even compared with a normal car... I owned a Romahome, based on a Citroen light van, and that was only a tiny bit wider than a car. I have no idea what the modern equivalent in France would be though... The 'not being able to rent if you are a new driver' thing has also applied in the UK for many decades..I saw it coming I'm afraid chaps...
@@MeandMonAmi VW van beds (as you have mentioned I think) tend to be quite narrow, you could look at campers based on other vans - my Romahome had a full width bed as it took up the width of the van. I am stating the obvious I expect Tim ! Haha. I wouldn't even think of towing Elton behind a camper though - that would be a challenge for new driver I would say !!!! Imagine trying to reverse the whole thing ? !! Ooer. Cheers, Dave
The reason why there aren’t many electric campervans is that it is cheaper for the big conversion companies to convert internal combustion engined vans into campers.
@MeandMonAmi it busts the 3.5 Tonne licence limit, once built, that is why Volkswagen haven't made an id Buzz campervan. Their campervan 10:53 is now on the multivan base vehicle, changed from the original Transporter, whichnis now made by Ford.
Shame Rosetta Stone does not include Welsh! My other half is Welsh and i keep telling him that if he started speaking to me in Welsh, after 16 years together I'd be fluent!! And he also owns a small caravan park, in deepest west Wales. Great video and I love browsing camper vans. And your quip about Carry On Camping made me chuckle!
The one you liked looked perfect, and the bed upstairs was just in its up position for headroom. They are very useful for everything and personally I love the high driving position of a camper van, you see more. Conclusion, do it! Also worth noting that the smaller vans are as usable as a car day to day and are easy to drive so as a new driver you should be fine, just check that someone will insure you. Personally I have a motorhome which I love, but driving something 23 feet long requires concentration and you’re extremely restricted when it comes to parking.
Thanks. Yup there’s no way on reflection we are getting a monster. If we can work out a way to do it we’d love a California sized van but maybe one we just sleep in with pull outs at the back.
You should look at base camp caravans are so much cheaper & really nice. We had a hybrid car that couldn’t pull a blancmange! So couldn’t buy a caravan.
Having had a few campervans, they are dead dear and it's a lot of money tied up. We sold our last one a while ago and just rent one when we want one. The other thing is the best and worst thing about them is the same thing. You've got everything with you, so when you pop to the shops you've got to take it all with you. They're great, but eye wateringly expensive to run.
My tip about camper van: get an automatic one because they are for longer drive and the comfort of an automatic when stuck in traffic with a bigger vehicle on small roads without being used to drive a house size car will pay the price difference after a few roads trips. Also get a vehicle that you can stand up inside, being curved all the time will make being inside discomfortable very quickly. If you plan to live inside it for some time (bigger than a weekend), solar painels are necessary.
@@MeandMonAmi I always forget that some countries let take a “automatic only drivers license” Here in Brazil every driver license must be taken on a manual car, I think last time I drove a manual car was just before the pandemic.
'Freedom Microlite caravans' would be perfect for Elton, You can pick them up second hand for a couple of thousand Euro's. Made of solid Plastic stuff, never any rust or leaks and they are very very light to pull
I don't think 100k on the clock is bad for a van. If the engine is well looked after, new cam belt if its not a chain no issues. I was watching the motorhome man this morning and we are coming into the time when dealers are trying to sell off their 2024 stock before they take on 2025 stock and so deals are to be had. My later in life plan is to buy a small motorhome on somethibg like a berlingo base and travel Europe, currently in France but going to the UK for a year to earn serious money to start my travelling/work life, advebtures are so exciting
Thanks for the taking us along on the shopping tour! It's interesting to have a glimpse into the the European RV market. I also much liked the Fiat motor home, but it's a big spend, could you park it on your street or would you have to pay to park it somewhere? As far as no one renting to newly licensed drivers, I'm wondering if there's supplemental insurance you could obtain, or if an RV rental company looking for some exposure might sponsor the Channel? That way you could sample different vehicles, give different impressions help promote RV rentals. I could Imagine an RV company (large or small) who caters to British, Canadian and American tourists might benefit from Me and Mon Ami special presentations, and if they have an RV setting for the weekend or a week it's better then letting it sit, and a title like: "We got a Free m RV rental in France!" might be popular, and perhaps as it's not a rental but a promotional use either you or a dealer might have insurance options.
That first one was the best. Keep it simple - less to go wrong and cheaper. You’re right about them pretty well keeping their price. Also if the van is smallish you won’t need Elton - you can go everywhere and easy to drive. I had a Renault Kangoo, with a pop-top roof, but only good for one person. I went all over the UK and France, wild camping and aires. Amazingly cheap and fun spontaneous holidays. And cheap on ferries and Eurostar - same price as a car. Great adventures! I was in my early 70s. Have fun chaps!
An Airstream trailer is a dream but you’d probably want to sell your place if you wanted to live on the road full time. I don’t think you guys are ready yet for the RV life but one day you might look at each other and say why haven’t we done that? If you enjoy doing that at some point, you might want to take the next step but in the meantime, dipping your toes in the water as it were, seems quite sensible to me indeed. Best wishes! 😊
Definitely don’t want to live in the road full time! But we’d like to do longer journeys and we’d love to do them in Elton but the cost of stays in order to charge etc just make it a bit bonkers
I want an electric campervan, with V2G. 90 % of the year: connected at home, providing V2G, charge at low price, discharge, and even sell at high price; as well as serving as a spare guest room. 10% of the year: use for trips bringing our own accommodation, and
The question to be asked, and answered, is "Will a camper van dispel Mr Boo's Camping reservations.?" As a kid l, some familial holidays were courtesy of a 1970s VW Westphalia. But, if you have camping reservations, even a. camper-van has its logistics compromises. Try before you buy... rent one. . let somebody else bear the 50 weeks a year of pure depreciation. The thing with camping... don't overthink it. 😊
The Westphalia had a pop-up fibre-glass roof with canvas sides and a canvas bed that pulled down when the roof was deployed. It aacommodated my 180 CM frame. Not too great being up there in a thunderstorm downpour. Sympathise with the prostate issues. When properly hydrated, its about an hour and a half max driving before nature calls. Watch out for le bourdain... "Trois picque et mort !" or so a French kid told us.
i am still building my Citreon electric camper van...but im hoping to travel down to the south of France ,as soon as its ready...maybe ill see you there ?..
Mister Me and Mister Boo and Elton and Twiggy 🐶🐶 think buying a campervan is a big lay out Tim! Hote one when ya want ome, keep hold of your money!😊there's plenty choice out there😊 good luck on getting fixed up with someone, & keep on carrying on camping 😂😂 stay safe and well and obviously stay charged 👍 🎉
Just back from a trip in my Rapido to Nah Then music festival where a lot of the motorhomes have been purchased with lump sums taken out of pensions and driving back up the A1 the rental motorhomes are obvious before you see the sign written bodywork because they are being hammered in the fast lane. Now I know you wouldn't abuse a van like that and you could borrow mine except you would need to pass another test for manual vehicles and thought that would be your major problem as automatic motorhomes are rare and mainly on the largest van sizes. Electric conversion are coming a friend had one specially commissioned and is now excitingly reporting not being the only one at his archery events.
Deffo, if you are looking for a cheap unusual campervan, can I recommend converting a hearse, with a pop top roof, plenty of space, and you can usually skip most queues
Don’t go back to the dreaded diesel, we’ve had a fully electric campervan for 6 years , started with a Nissan nv200 , now a Citroen dispatch with pop top roof. We love it , ok £44000 self built except for the roof , set a trend for the channel x
Did you pass your driving test? You never say, wish you would say something .... the 2 years is an insurance thing. Why on earth would anyone not let someone drive a 60k plus piece of machinery weighing oodles of tons on the freeway that has just passed their test?? Madness. Maybe a boat, like a pointu perhaps, and sail around the coast?? ... dive into the clear waters and explore generally. Can't wait for your next fun adventure Tim & Mr Boo, thank you 🙏
We have a couple of adapted old conversions. AA and RAC vans in the family. Brother and nephew have both spent quite some time doing them up. You need to get to Everything Electric or have a look at some vids
I think you should be looking at used air cooled vw westphalia. Reasonably priced, reliable, plentiful and very well thought out proven practical design. Hello from the US!
Half the fun is watching you find chargers and run around at 28mph. If you had a campervan it would need to be a VW Buzz electric campervan. Or maybe one of those tiny converted Nissan Leaf vans with built in kitchenettes!
Buying any high mileage vehicle is a risk, but if you check it has a full service history you can more or less rest assured that it will be a sound investment, I would suggest against buying brand new, because if you find out it isn't for you both you're kind of stuffed, you will still have the debt and you are not able to sell the van on because it's on finance, I have seen lots of video's on you tube where people buy a van second hand and convert it them selves, it really isn't too hard to do, it's amazing what you can do with wood, Always remember measure twice cut once, and the beauty of self creation is it's your achievement, and if van life doesn't suit you both the vehicle is your to sell or keep and all paid for, Love your videos, we are finally getting some decent weather up north(Lancashire), but as always It'll either rain or go dark before morning.
We are watching a travel documentary on Norwegian TV; two friends traveling 7 weeks in Japan in the tiniest campervan possible. I believe it is a «JP Star Happy +», that is a tiny Kei-class Daihatsu Hijet, with an RV modification.
@@MeandMonAmi just a sidenote, the Kei-class RVs are very small. My comment was not remotely intended as a recommendation. I think they are too tiny to be what you're looking for. It is so small, they still got a tent, for one of the to sleep in, These vehicles are primarily designed for the Japanese market; to fit a small vehicle category, the Kei-class. With Japan driving on leftk they have steering on the right. In Japan they make sense from a tax and insurance perspective, while in Europe they would just be a very small, standard category car. I'm fascinated by the Kei-class, and it might be fun to get an electric Kei-class pickup truck, But when they start with a Ket-truck to build an RV, it's just too small to be of any practical use.
Buy a second hand van and fit it out yourself. You can make it as simple or as complicated as like. But at it's most basic, it's a portaloo and a plywood bed with a bit of foam on it, something to use as a table, a camping stove a jerry can for water and off you go.
Some of these caravans are more luxurious than certain houses, but they also come at a high price and end up being quite a substantial investment. Renting one for a while would be the best option to assess whether you would like it or not, and then proceed to buy one, even if it is used. However, the requirement of having a driving licence for at least two years ends up complicating the situation.
Considering the view we get when Elton is parked on the road looks somewhat tight, have you figured out parking IF you did get one? personally i'd just get a better tent with a bit more height & some better air mats, or a couple of the old fashioned army surplus canvas & wire frame self assembly cot jobbies, they sell weaker versions in camping shops. the ultimate to me is a fishing bed, very comfy indeed, but wholly impractical for elton.
Ha ha. You used a word I have not heard in 40 years since I left Edinburgh. I always thought there was something appropriately expressive about the word Cludgie.
Really like hearing your Classic soundtrack every now and then!! Play a game of Boules to see who gets to clean out the holding tank?? I think Tim you might have the upper hand 😄
Would a camper van company lend you one to review/promote? A video of you both travelling around for a week would be amazing publicity for a sponsor, and we would benefit from watching another great video or two!
yeah the first couple of years of holding any sort of licence is the hardest to rent or get a job with. hense the 2 or more years experience rule, which isn't an experience rule, the only rule is you held your licence for that long, unless you are one of the lucky ones.
@@MeandMonAmi the other thing to watch before getting a camper van is that it is under the weight limit of your driving licence, as vans can go over 3.5 tonnes laden weight, which my friend would have to take a class C1 test to drive anything over 3.5 tonnes or 3500 kgs. like I got to drive the van when it is filled to make sure we are legal as my licence has the C1 catagory up to 7.5 tonnes all because I passed my driving test more than 30 years ago, but he passed his test after the rule changes in the UK. not sure about trailer weight plus Elton on the back, as my licence only covers me for a total trailer weight of 750kgs. so something you would also have to check. some people tow their cars with a V shaped tow bar behind a camper van to minimise weight, but with Elton being electric then that would be a serious problem, unless you get a tow trailer wheels that lift up the front axle off the ground like recovery vehicles use.
Bonsoir mes amis d'Espagne. I have converted a VW Combi into a campervan, also fitted out a folding caravan with ALL mod cons in a space equal to one of those vans. Everything is possible except, perhaps, in our Berlingo although if it was for just the two of us and the dogs ... I also used to sleep flat in the back of my Volvo estate and with a small canopy at the back for my cooking and toilet facilities. As they say in one of the best films 'Carry on Camping'
I came across your channel while looking for the reviews of Handirack and have watched quite a number of your videos. I'm a bit sorry that you're not filming and publishing in HDR anymore.
....get a van,and kit it out perhapsy? We're contemplating this very thing. Sadly not enough pennies in our piggy bank for a camper van ,especially the Buzz,which we love 😢 It's the very same sense of adventure you mentioned....just to be able to get up and go 😊 PS : I had the same problem when i first passed my test hiring a vehicle . All the best Tim ,Boo and Twiggy ❤ xxx
These big campervans are rather restricting when you're looking for more remote sites to camp. They're very fragile if they touch anything by accident, and difficult to manoeuvre even with a second pair of eyes. Quite honestly, get a little caravan you can park up and leave while you use the tow-car to tour the area. That allows you to find a good used EV, with a good range, that you can tow with. The Freedom caravans are available secondhand too. They weigh under 750Kg, so any small car can tow them, they're moveable by hand, easily, and I don't think you need an extra license category to tow under 750Kg (check first!). These caravans are likely available across the EU under a different name, or a similar one. They're all one big fibreglass moulding, so don't suffer water-leaks, and come in various configurations and price points.
Motorhomes have gone posh since I was a lad going camping with Dad. Regarding towing Elton, I think some American motorhomes can tow a car without a trailer. Not sure how they do that.
Did I hear that right, Tim? Do you have your driver's licence now? BTW, I've transitioned. I am now the proud owner of a skookum EV. 530 km range; 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. Can pull a 2,300 lb. (1.03 metric ton) caravan. I would imagine that towing a caravan would have a significant negative impact on the car's from standing start acceleration speed, however.
Obviously hiring a camper van is best option ,but you would have to wait a while. Remember they are big compèred to elton . Getting an electric camper isn’t doable. Maybe a few more camping trips . Camping in poor weather is awful,but a good chance now of sunny trips .stay charged .
May I suggest that you go on any website for second hand cars and set the filters for fully electric with 9 seats. If you are filtering for fully electric with 9 seats you will see some for about 30,000 euros, but realistically you will probably end up paying 40,000 euros. All you will need to do is take out all the seats in the back and put up some curtains, get a bio-toilet, and a mattress. OK, the range won't be that wonderful, but better than Elton.
i just checked about the law and in France any driver can rent a vehicule, no matter his experience or his age. now some companies have this policy of refusing to rent the same way to "young drivers" . but usually, because it is legal for any lawful driver to rent a vehicle, there is a way around by paying a premium. if they do not propose it themsleves, you can first specify that youve been driving your ami for more than 2 years with no accident (i guess you can ask your insurance to give you a letter confirming that). and ask if there would be a way around thruogh a little bit more cash towards the insurance of the renting place?
100,000kms is nothing! We have 327,000 on our California from 1993 and it's barely run in 😂 It just goes on and on. Unless you have money to burn then a self conversion or a "camping car occasion" is the way to go. Bear in mind that few will be automatic and for most of the time it'll be parked up because Elton will be better around town.
well maybe you could solve your problem by renting the campervan directly to a private owner? there are websites for such deals, a bit like an rbnb deal...
it's worth watching a guy on youtube called Alan Heath. He is british but lives in his motorhome moving mainly between Germany and Poland I believe. What he doesn't know about camper vans/motorhomes is not worth knowing! Am sure he would be happy to guide you as newbies.
No. Just resolve that you both are cabinette campers. If you're set on a van, rent one for a few trips first. Friends here in California say the Petrol/reg costs more than airfare and hotel!
Do you go back to your own house after a typical video? If so, then to buy a campervan would be understandably expensive. Do you buy a small affordable one, or a bigger one? How about hiring one to help make your decision?
Rosetta Stone Offer: partners.rosettastone.com/meandmonami-4
Absolutely not. The tent trips are comedy gold! 😂😂❤️🥂
I love your comments of things no-one over the age of 50 would know! I'm a northern England 67 year old so I get all digs!
Glad you are enjoying!
Likewise and I turned 83 a few of days ago.
Same here!
Wonderful lads. Good luck with whatever you decide. Always a hoot to follow you. 😉👍❤️
Thanks so much!
hi guys nice film. we couldn't go back to a diesel...there are e Kangoo camper vans but you cook outside...i used to have 2 vw vans and they were so stylish but all my money went to the mechanic...electric retro vw would be much better but expensive. good luck in your van quest.
That’s my worry re the vintage VW!
i love mr boo's face when the guy is talking about campers,,,lol
I’m loving these shows. Makes one want to sell up, move to France and get an Ami!
Steady on!;
You are super guys!! Wonderful spend time with you and your humor
Love what you do here ❤
IF you get a camper van or mobilehome,
Most campers have a hitch for a bike rack.
Most campers are NOT allowed to tow the weight of a trailer and the ami!!
As an Aixam Crossline driver, i converted my vehicle with a hitch so i can pull a small trailer.
Maximum weight of the trailer is half of what your vehicle weighs.
So if the ami is 300kg, you can tow 125kg.
And yes, i know an electric vehicle is hard to modify for a hitch.
The ami is only 500kg but that’s down the line!
Very interesting. I can't wait to see Mr Boo's expressions if he ever experiences the terror of being driven around in one of those 😂🤗
I’d never thought of that!
A camper is pretty much the most fun way to travel. I have rented a camper a few times and, among other places, we went to Scandinavia with it. In total, I have rented a camper five times in my life and we still look back on those trips with great pleasure!
Yup and I loved caravaning as a kid more than the foreign holidays we did
I can feel a “Paddy and Max’s Road to Nowhere” update in the making!
Yes!!!! Get one!!!! You will have lots of fun adventures. 👏👏👏👏😎😎
You could think about a Citroën Berlingo / Peugeot Partner, VW Caddy with a camper interior AND a much bigger Decathlon Tent and more comfortable stuff. There are lightweight trailers, for example from Woodford, that can transport an Ami and it is no problem for a Caddy, Berlingo, Partner to tow this . Just an advise from a petrolhead and automotive professional!
I’ve a feeling the bigger tent may come first but the weight on the ami roof is a big problem. It’s not a normal car!
60k is absolutely nothing mileage wise Tim. It’s a van, it’s used to be in abused and hammered up and down the motorway! Lauren is over next week, she says see you & Mr Boo at Bettys for a beverage!
🐞Hi Tim and Mr. Boo! Now you've gone right up my alley! I have been looking at motorhomes and campers for months, and I love those ones on the Mercedes chassis! They are incredible, but very$$$! I was going to suggest renting, but then you spoke about it...I had no idea that you needed to be a licensed driver for 2 years before you could rent one! How silly. (I've been driving since I was a teenager in 1976 and had been my Dad's co-driver on his long haul camping trips!)... they let you buy one and drive it, but not rent one? I guess it's all about liability and insurance, n'est pas? But yes, those smaller van conversions are also a good option, (less $) because you can also get awning extensions for rainy weather so you can extend your living space. I must say, I laughed my head off when Tim viewed the portable toilet trailer! Seriously, I have never seen anything like that before. A trailer that's all toilet! (I'd not laugh at that especially for all of us with 'aged' bits in our nether regions that require nocturnal facilities...lol...okay, I laughed...)
The toilet bits are more important than any of us would like to admit!
Another great episode, thank you! I'm currently saving for a motorhome, Hymer would be my preference but let's see what fate brings 🎉
Famous old brand
Someone once asked Elton John what was the difference between Freddie Mercury and the Varre Valley. He replied I don't know, I've never been up the Varre Valley!
A good oldie!
I am not an RV person myself, but I have recently watched several RV videos, and from what I have seen you've got to put years of research into the subject before being able to make an informed decision regarding a purchase. At that point, enough time will have passed that you will be able to rent one anyway.
One important bit is that Corona has upset supply/demand and the market has not settled yet (neither new nor used); so you can't rely on the depreciation of your purchase to be limited - once all the RVs bought during the pandemic hit the 2nd-hand market, the prices might tumble.
Then there are all the differences in maintenance/longevity/unique problems that exist between the different forms of RV (gutted regular van vs. cut-out van; sandwich panels vs. plastic shell, etc.).
Apart from the specifics of your driver's license (height, width, length, weight, load), there apparently is also the issue in France of the differences in toll road fees. For example, if you RV is too high, it is classed as a lorry, etc.
I dont think its as complicated as people think when they start out.
Here in the states they drop considerably once you drive off lot - but you 2 are in the perfect spot to explore- get a van and build it out on a budget just make sure your brand of van is reliable ❤️
Think it be channel gold; Tim and Mr. Boo's adventures!!
You could look at something smaller - all those vans you looked at here are w - i - d - e compared with Elton, and even compared with a normal car... I owned a Romahome, based on a Citroen light van, and that was only a tiny bit wider than a car. I have no idea what the modern equivalent in France would be though...
The 'not being able to rent if you are a new driver' thing has also applied in the UK for many decades..I saw it coming I'm afraid chaps...
Yup we are definitely not thinking of anything bigger than VW California size
@@MeandMonAmi VW van beds (as you have mentioned I think) tend to be quite narrow, you could look at campers based on other vans - my Romahome had a full width bed as it took up the width of the van. I am stating the obvious I expect Tim ! Haha. I wouldn't even think of towing Elton behind a camper though - that would be a challenge for new driver I would say !!!! Imagine trying to reverse the whole thing ? !! Ooer. Cheers, Dave
The reason why there aren’t many electric campervans is that it is cheaper for the big conversion companies to convert internal combustion engined vans into campers.
Yup and that’s also about the weight and battery size. ID buzz seven seater converted will probably work though but it’s very expensive
@MeandMonAmi it busts the 3.5 Tonne licence limit, once built, that is why Volkswagen haven't made an id Buzz campervan. Their campervan 10:53 is now on the multivan base vehicle, changed from the original Transporter, whichnis now made by Ford.
@@Jackfinn456 also more weight = less range.
Shame Rosetta Stone does not include Welsh! My other half is Welsh and i keep telling him that if he started speaking to me in Welsh, after 16 years together I'd be fluent!! And he also owns a small caravan park, in deepest west Wales. Great video and I love browsing camper vans. And your quip about Carry On Camping made me chuckle!
Yes they don’t do Welsh!
The one you liked looked perfect, and the bed upstairs was just in its up position for headroom. They are very useful for everything and personally I love the high driving position of a camper van, you see more. Conclusion, do it! Also worth noting that the smaller vans are as usable as a car day to day and are easy to drive so as a new driver you should be fine, just check that someone will insure you.
Personally I have a motorhome which I love, but driving something 23 feet long requires concentration and you’re extremely restricted when it comes to parking.
Thanks. Yup there’s no way on reflection we are getting a monster. If we can work out a way to do it we’d love a California sized van but maybe one we just sleep in with pull outs at the back.
You should look at base camp caravans are so much cheaper & really nice. We had a hybrid car that couldn’t pull a blancmange! So couldn’t buy a caravan.
Thanks for the tip!
Hey Tim, Mr Boo and Twiggy. I hope all your dreams come true.
Having had a few campervans, they are dead dear and it's a lot of money tied up. We sold our last one a while ago and just rent one when we want one. The other thing is the best and worst thing about them is the same thing. You've got everything with you, so when you pop to the shops you've got to take it all with you. They're great, but eye wateringly expensive to run.
Very true.
Yup I think we agree. we are looking at more flexible solutions.
Tim's smile reminds me of The Queen Mother. It's uncanny.
It’s the teeth
My tip about camper van: get an automatic one because they are for longer drive and the comfort of an automatic when stuck in traffic with a bigger vehicle on small roads without being used to drive a house size car will pay the price difference after a few roads trips.
Also get a vehicle that you can stand up inside, being curved all the time will make being inside discomfortable very quickly.
If you plan to live inside it for some time (bigger than a weekend), solar painels are necessary.
I only have automatic licence so no choice really but I think we are moving towards a multi use vehicle
@@MeandMonAmi I always forget that some countries let take a “automatic only drivers license”
Here in Brazil every driver license must be taken on a manual car, I think last time I drove a manual car was just before the pandemic.
'Freedom Microlite caravans' would be perfect for Elton, You can pick them up second hand for a couple of thousand Euro's. Made of solid Plastic stuff, never any rust or leaks and they are very very light to pull
They look great but sadly Elton isn’t legally allowed to pull anything
My 81-year-old hubby and I just bought a used van for less than 7K Euro. We have a bed, a potty, water tanks, so far so good.
Hope you find something!
Good value and what fun!
I don't think 100k on the clock is bad for a van. If the engine is well looked after, new cam belt if its not a chain no issues. I was watching the motorhome man this morning and we are coming into the time when dealers are trying to sell off their 2024 stock before they take on 2025 stock and so deals are to be had. My later in life plan is to buy a small motorhome on somethibg like a berlingo base and travel Europe, currently in France but going to the UK for a year to earn serious money to start my travelling/work life, advebtures are so exciting
Thanks. Yes we’ve been looking at second hand e berlingo cargos recently.
Thanks for the taking us along on the shopping tour! It's interesting to have a glimpse into the the European RV market. I also much liked the Fiat motor home, but it's a big spend, could you park it on your street or would you have to pay to park it somewhere?
As far as no one renting to newly licensed drivers, I'm wondering if there's supplemental insurance you could obtain, or if an RV rental company looking for some exposure might sponsor the Channel? That way you could sample different vehicles, give different impressions help promote RV rentals.
I could Imagine an RV company (large or small) who caters to British, Canadian and American tourists might benefit from Me and Mon Ami special presentations, and if they have an RV setting for the weekend or a week it's better then letting it sit, and a title like: "We got a Free m RV rental in France!" might be popular, and perhaps as it's not a rental but a promotional use either you or a dealer might have insurance options.
Thanks Jack. We will certainly ask!
That first one was the best. Keep it simple - less to go wrong and cheaper. You’re right about them pretty well keeping their price. Also if the van is smallish you won’t need Elton - you can go everywhere and easy to drive. I had a Renault Kangoo, with a pop-top roof, but only good for one person. I went all over the UK and France, wild camping and aires. Amazingly cheap and fun spontaneous holidays. And cheap on ferries and Eurostar - same price as a car. Great adventures! I was in my early 70s. Have fun chaps!
Thanks. Yup we agree no big thing and keep it simple and small. The big ones are fabulous, when parked!
An Airstream trailer is a dream but you’d probably want to sell your place if you wanted to live on the road full time. I don’t think you guys are ready yet for the RV life but one day you might look at each other and say why haven’t we done that? If you enjoy doing that at some point, you might want to take the next step but in the meantime, dipping your toes in the water as it were, seems quite sensible to me indeed. Best wishes! 😊
Definitely don’t want to live in the road full time! But we’d like to do longer journeys and we’d love to do them in Elton but the cost of stays in order to charge etc just make it a bit bonkers
11:30. Twigs has the right idea. Take a snooze while the two dads prattle on.
I want an electric campervan, with V2G.
90 % of the year: connected at home, providing V2G, charge at low price, discharge, and even sell at high price; as well as serving as a spare guest room.
10% of the year: use for trips bringing our own accommodation, and
The question to be asked, and answered, is "Will a camper van dispel Mr Boo's Camping reservations.?"
As a kid l, some familial holidays were courtesy of a 1970s VW Westphalia.
But, if you have camping reservations, even a. camper-van has its logistics compromises.
Try before you buy... rent one. . let somebody else bear the 50 weeks a year of pure depreciation.
The thing with camping... don't overthink it. 😊
Indeed I just go with the flow (but that’s part of the problem prostate wise!)
The Westphalia had a pop-up fibre-glass roof with canvas sides and a canvas bed that pulled down when the roof was deployed. It aacommodated my 180 CM frame. Not too great being up there in a thunderstorm downpour.
Sympathise with the prostate issues. When properly hydrated, its about an hour and a half max driving before nature calls.
Watch out for le bourdain... "Trois picque et mort !" or so a French kid told us.
Oh no. I’ve only gone and ordered the orange and yellow T-shirts. I blame Mr Boo 👻 😂
It’s all his fault!
i am still building my Citreon electric camper van...but im hoping to travel down to the south of France ,as soon as its ready...maybe ill see you there ?..
Race ya!
@@MeandMonAmi your on....x
A new Carry on Camping? Yes please
Mister Me and Mister Boo and Elton and Twiggy 🐶🐶 think buying a campervan is a big lay out Tim! Hote one when ya want ome, keep hold of your money!😊there's plenty choice out there😊 good luck on getting fixed up with someone, & keep on carrying on camping 😂😂 stay safe and well and obviously stay charged 👍 🎉
I agree but so far we haven’t found anyone who will rent one to a new driver!
@@MeandMonAmi ahh! Yeah, that's a very good point made Tim. Keep looking 👀
...about time you`re making progress...being Dutch, I`m pretty direct...lollol...😁
Just back from a trip in my Rapido to Nah Then music festival where a lot of the motorhomes have been purchased with lump sums taken out of pensions and driving back up the A1 the rental motorhomes are obvious before you see the sign written bodywork because they are being hammered in the fast lane.
Now I know you wouldn't abuse a van like that and you could borrow mine except you would need to pass another test for manual vehicles and thought that would be your major problem as automatic motorhomes are rare and mainly on the largest van sizes.
Electric conversion are coming a friend had one specially commissioned and is now excitingly reporting not being the only one at his archery events.
Deffo, if you are looking for a cheap unusual campervan, can I recommend converting a hearse, with a pop top roof, plenty of space, and you can usually skip most queues
The six feet under van?
Don’t go back to the dreaded diesel, we’ve had a fully electric campervan for 6 years , started with a Nissan nv200 , now a Citroen dispatch with pop top roof. We love it , ok £44000 self built except for the roof , set a trend for the channel x
We REALLY don’t want to go back to fuel (well I say go back I’ve never owned one apart from an antique Velo Solex!)
The motorhomes are lovely….. but have you the parking space at home? Once you’ve finished your trips……. Thanks for the tour round😉👌🏽
Indeed we haven’t so we’re definitely looking at a much smaller flexible vehicle
Did you pass your driving test? You never say, wish you would say something .... the 2 years is an insurance thing. Why on earth would anyone not let someone drive a 60k plus piece of machinery weighing oodles of tons on the freeway that has just passed their test?? Madness. Maybe a boat, like a pointu perhaps, and sail around the coast?? ... dive into the clear waters and explore generally. Can't wait for your next fun adventure Tim & Mr Boo, thank you 🙏
I know but I have actually been driving for three years (without a licence!)
I love your videos! If you think Elton will make it, you should come up to Tende one day, and I'll show you around!
We will make it to Tende in the Autumn but it’s an overnight stay for Elton..
We have a couple of adapted old conversions. AA and RAC vans in the family.
Brother and nephew have both spent quite some time doing them up.
You need to get to Everything Electric or have a look at some vids
We’ve watched a lot (probably too many conversion vids). I think we are leaning towards a vehicle with multi use not a motorhome
I think you should be looking at used air cooled vw westphalia. Reasonably priced, reliable, plentiful and very well thought out proven practical design. Hello from the US!
We love them. I just wonder now whether they are reliable enough for really long adventures.
Half the fun is watching you find chargers and run around at 28mph. If you had a campervan it would need to be a VW Buzz electric campervan. Or maybe one of those tiny converted Nissan Leaf vans with built in kitchenettes!
We’ve been looking a second hand ID buzz’s which though still expensive are about £10k cheaper in France than Uk
Buying any high mileage vehicle is a risk, but if you check it has a full service history you can more or less rest assured that it will be a sound investment, I would suggest against buying brand new, because if you find out it isn't for you both you're kind of stuffed, you will still have the debt and you are not able to sell the van on because it's on finance, I have seen lots of video's on you tube where people buy a van second hand and convert it them selves, it really isn't too hard to do, it's amazing what you can do with wood, Always remember measure twice cut once, and the beauty of self creation is it's your achievement, and if van life doesn't suit you both the vehicle is your to sell or keep and all paid for, Love your videos, we are finally getting some decent weather up north(Lancashire), but as always It'll either rain or go dark before morning.
Thanks. Almost certain we won’t be buying new or big!
We are watching a travel documentary on Norwegian TV; two friends traveling 7 weeks in Japan in the tiniest campervan possible.
I believe it is a «JP Star Happy +», that is a tiny Kei-class Daihatsu Hijet, with an RV modification.
Thanks will look it up. We love some of those micro lightweight caravans that are appearing on the market
@@MeandMonAmi just a sidenote, the Kei-class RVs are very small.
My comment was not remotely intended as a recommendation.
I think they are too tiny to be what you're looking for.
It is so small, they still got a tent, for one of the to sleep in,
These vehicles are primarily designed for the Japanese market; to fit a small vehicle category, the Kei-class.
With Japan driving on leftk they have steering on the right.
In Japan they make sense from a tax and insurance perspective, while in Europe they would just be a very small, standard category car.
I'm fascinated by the Kei-class, and it might be fun to get an electric Kei-class pickup truck, But when they start with a Ket-truck to build an RV, it's just too small to be of any practical use.
Buy a second hand van and fit it out yourself. You can make it as simple or as complicated as like. But at it's most basic, it's a portaloo and a plywood bed with a bit of foam on it, something to use as a table, a camping stove a jerry can for water and off you go.
Thanks, we are definitely leaning towards the simpler end!
Some of these caravans are more luxurious than certain houses, but they also come at a high price and end up being quite a substantial investment.
Renting one for a while would be the best option to assess whether you would like it or not, and then proceed to buy one, even if it is used. However, the requirement of having a driving licence for at least two years ends up complicating the situation.
Indeed and renting would be best but two years is a long time at my age!
Some of those vans are lovely. I did wonder why you wouldn’t just rent one but now I know!
Indeed. Hopefully someone will rent us one
Considering the view we get when Elton is parked on the road looks somewhat tight, have you figured out parking IF you did get one? personally i'd just get a better tent with a bit more height & some better air mats, or a couple of the old fashioned army surplus canvas & wire frame self assembly cot jobbies, they sell weaker versions in camping shops. the ultimate to me is a fishing bed, very comfy indeed, but wholly impractical for elton.
Yes we certainly cant and wont be parking a mighty motorhome there!
Ha ha. You used a word I have not heard in 40 years since I left Edinburgh. I always thought there was something appropriately expressive about the word Cludgie.
Yes it sounds like what it does!
Really like hearing your Classic soundtrack every now and then!! Play a game of Boules to see who gets to clean out the holding tank?? I think Tim you might have the upper hand 😄
I think that’s a VERY good idea!
Yeah, go on, as long as Elton goes with you.😂😂
Yes definitely as long as Twiggy also gets a rotating chair too!
Now that would be very funny!
Would a camper van company lend you one to review/promote? A video of you both travelling around for a week would be amazing publicity for a sponsor, and we would benefit from watching another great video or two!
That would be fabulous!
That’s a brilliant idea! You have a great fan base.. You guys are awesome ❤
Citroen forever ❤
yeah the first couple of years of holding any sort of licence is the hardest to rent or get a job with. hense the 2 or more years experience rule, which isn't an experience rule, the only rule is you held your licence for that long, unless you are one of the lucky ones.
Indeed though I’ve been driving for 2.5 years on public roads without incident of licence!
@@MeandMonAmi the other thing to watch before getting a camper van is that it is under the weight limit of your driving licence, as vans can go over 3.5 tonnes laden weight, which my friend would have to take a class C1 test to drive anything over 3.5 tonnes or 3500 kgs. like I got to drive the van when it is filled to make sure we are legal as my licence has the C1 catagory up to 7.5 tonnes all because I passed my driving test more than 30 years ago, but he passed his test after the rule changes in the UK. not sure about trailer weight plus Elton on the back, as my licence only covers me for a total trailer weight of 750kgs. so something you would also have to check. some people tow their cars with a V shaped tow bar behind a camper van to minimise weight, but with Elton being electric then that would be a serious problem, unless you get a tow trailer wheels that lift up the front axle off the ground like recovery vehicles use.
Yes, of course buy one. If you were Crocs shoes, you can do anything :-)
True dat
Bonsoir mes amis d'Espagne. I have converted a VW Combi into a campervan, also fitted out a folding caravan with ALL mod cons in a space equal to one of those vans. Everything is possible except, perhaps, in our Berlingo although if it was for just the two of us and the dogs ... I also used to sleep flat in the back of my Volvo estate and with a small canopy at the back for my cooking and toilet facilities. As they say in one of the best films 'Carry on Camping'
Back of the van is looking more likely for us! If only we could put a tent on Elton’s roof
I came across your channel while looking for the reviews of Handirack and have watched quite a number of your videos. I'm a bit sorry that you're not filming and publishing in HDR anymore.
We are
....get a van,and kit it out perhapsy?
We're contemplating this very thing.
Sadly not enough pennies in our piggy bank for a camper van ,especially the Buzz,which we love 😢
It's the very same sense of adventure you mentioned....just to be able to get up and go 😊
PS : I had the same problem when i first passed my test hiring a vehicle .
All the best Tim ,Boo and Twiggy ❤ xxx
Yup we love the buzz but…
Hey 👋 guys - Mr Boo is very long But I’m sure he’s worth the climb 👌
These big campervans are rather restricting when you're looking for more remote sites to camp. They're very fragile if they touch anything by accident, and difficult to manoeuvre even with a second pair of eyes. Quite honestly, get a little caravan you can park up and leave while you use the tow-car to tour the area. That allows you to find a good used EV, with a good range, that you can tow with. The Freedom caravans are available secondhand too. They weigh under 750Kg, so any small car can tow them, they're moveable by hand, easily, and I don't think you need an extra license category to tow under 750Kg (check first!). These caravans are likely available across the EU under a different name, or a similar one. They're all one big fibreglass moulding, so don't suffer water-leaks, and come in various configurations and price points.
Yes we’ve looked at those and like them
Can you tow a milk float without ruining the transmission?
Check how much you can load on them, because with an ordinary driver's license it is usually not much
Motorhomes have gone posh since I was a lad going camping with Dad.
Regarding towing Elton, I think some American motorhomes can tow a car without a trailer. Not sure how they do that.
I’ve seen some with the car inside!
Wouldn’t you consider building your own van? th-cam.com/play/PLgr1eojK6tpyhHmVSWDc0XJMrAJrY8zg1.html&si=0Xopw_RF41BasQEa
Did I hear that right, Tim? Do you have your driver's licence now?
BTW, I've transitioned. I am now the proud owner of a skookum EV. 530 km range; 0 to 100 km/h in 5.1 seconds. Can pull a 2,300 lb. (1.03 metric ton) caravan. I would imagine that towing a caravan would have a significant negative impact on the car's from standing start acceleration speed, however.
Wowzer and congratulations on your transition! (I’m looking it up now!)
Trailer tent…😊
Obviously hiring a camper van is best option ,but you would have to wait a while. Remember they are big compèred to elton . Getting an electric camper isn’t doable. Maybe a few more camping trips . Camping in poor weather is awful,but a good chance now of sunny trips .stay charged .
Campervans are great, but a very expensive solution, to a very cheap problem.
I see Mackenzie and Thompson are at it again …… don’t forget the rack for the canoe … I can row a boat canoe🤣😂🍷🤣😂
May I suggest that you go on any website for second hand cars and set the filters for fully electric with 9 seats.
If you are filtering for fully electric with 9 seats you will see some for about 30,000 euros, but realistically you will probably end up paying 40,000 euros.
All you will need to do is take out all the seats in the back and put up some curtains, get a bio-toilet, and a mattress. OK, the range won't be that wonderful, but better than Elton.
Yes we’ve been looking since we shot this and we have some ideas
@@MeandMonAmi I'm interested to see what you can build on to a basic second hand EV van.
SUmmer holiday!vWho will play Cliff?
Definitely me
i just checked about the law and in France any driver can rent a vehicule, no matter his experience or his age. now some companies have this policy of refusing to rent the same way to "young drivers" . but usually, because it is legal for any lawful driver to rent a vehicle, there is a way around by paying a premium. if they do not propose it themsleves, you can first specify that youve been driving your ami for more than 2 years with no accident (i guess you can ask your insurance to give you a letter confirming that). and ask if there would be a way around thruogh a little bit more cash towards the insurance of the renting place?
Thanks I shall give it a try!
@@MeandMonAmi also the policy changes from place to place so do not give up after a negative response... good luck!
Hello Me and Mon Ami, have you seen the Pössl e-Vanster campervan? The base is a Citroën ë-Spacetourer with an electric range of 298km.
Thanks will check it out
100,000kms is nothing! We have 327,000 on our California from 1993 and it's barely run in 😂 It just goes on and on. Unless you have money to burn then a self conversion or a "camping car occasion" is the way to go. Bear in mind that few will be automatic and for most of the time it'll be parked up because Elton will be better around town.
Yes we certainly don’t have money to burn so are looking at something with multi use
Campervan are ok
you know if all your subscribers sent you like 20.00 each you could buy on of these
It’s true but erm..
Carrefour had those fans here in Spain last Summer for under 10€,its working😅
They are great. These are 7000mh and last ages on a charge
@@MeandMonAmi these here 2500 mah,rol's about 4h max when fully charced...
well maybe you could solve your problem by renting the campervan directly to a private owner? there are websites for such deals, a bit like an rbnb deal...
Yes good idea my worry is that they wi have a site wide global insurance policy
@@MeandMonAmi i dont know. but that would be a place to start. of course do not mention you just passed your drivers license. congrats by the way!
@@alainprostbis lol thanks.
it's worth watching a guy on youtube called Alan Heath. He is british but lives in his motorhome moving mainly between Germany and Poland I believe. What he doesn't know about camper vans/motorhomes is not worth knowing! Am sure he would be happy to guide you as newbies.
Thanks.
No. Just resolve that you both are cabinette campers. If you're set on a van, rent one for a few trips first. Friends here in California say the Petrol/reg costs more than airfare and hotel!
As I say in the video we can’t rent one!
Can't you pitch a tent at David Niven's old estate?
Hmm not sure…
Nope no "proper car" , no glasses of wine and perambulating homeski :) only joking camper could be fun , will it be me and Mon campi?love your videos
Convert an old Renault Kangoo to a campervan. It is also under 2 meters in height which you will find is a plus along the coasts of France 🚧 🅿🏖
Yes we’ve been looking at smaller vans but mr boo is tall and we don’t think they are long enough
@@MeandMonAmi Have a look at the new electric Grand Kangoo.
Yes do it.😊🚐
Do you go back to your own house after a typical video? If so, then to buy a campervan would be understandably expensive. Do you buy a small affordable one, or a bigger one? How about hiring one to help make your decision?
Would if we could but as I say In the video they won’t rent one to a new driver
How about a roof tent for Elton?
Love one but there is no way Elton’s roof would take the weight of a roof tent and us and gear
Ah yes... The age and prostate thing... I wish somebody told me about that when I was in my twenties... Or do I? Oh well...
Peeing and camping. Someone must have written the book?
Oh, you two.