I’m a 41 year old woman and I’ve been watching your videos for only a few weeks and even though you talk about having a lot of anxiety and fear, I think you are so freaking cool and brave. I let fear hold me back way too often in my 20’s and 30’s and you feel the fear and do what you want to anyways, and that is awesome! I just really admire you.
I've been watching a ton of build videos in preparation for my own build, and you're the first person who's mentioned mental health as a factor, and how design can affect that. I really appreciate that. And it's nice to see some honest emotions.
Don't know if anyone has mentioned, but a good solution for the lack of window in your kitchen would be to put mirrors (either one piece plexiglas or 12" square mirror tiles) on that wall. Easy to do - just put it right over the tile you have there now. This is a trick used to make small apartments look bigger. Might work for you. Cheap and easy enough to do! Hope this helps. 🙂
Yeah, good idea, cuz they you would see what is out the window behind you now as you speak, rather than looking at the sink and faucet. You might have to rig it up so that it tilts forward a little, like with a strip of wood across the top of the back of the mirror before you stick it into place
@@LEELUNK-IS-A-HUNK not in London apparently now they just cutting it , in and out in a min , looking for tools , or so I've heard :-/ I would maybe have a low watt led set up to look like a tv is on or something like that that activates when someone is close by when I'm out , also alarms cameras etc etc
I could feel the anxiety in your voice. I am 26 from India. Got divorced recently. Had been facing mental health problems for about 2 years straight although improving slowly and gradually. You are doing better and better with decision making skills, expressing your problems to the open world, sharing your lows and high. Regrets and Proud moments. Seeing you makes me feel better. I love your voice.
I cured my anxiety by exposing myself little by little to the agents and situations that I used to find intolerable. Since then, I do recommend gradual exposure as a method of healing (or control). 💪🌷
After a couple of years of non-stop watching videos on campervans, conversions, lifestyle, pros and cons, etc. I can honestly say that this is the best and most truthfull video i've encountered. You have just won my subscription.
Great tips. Just remember that converting your bed to a table and back to a bed will take considerably longer than 40 seconds each time. You may like it better at first, but you will grow to hate it. Just put your passenger seat on a swivel, install a Lugun table that can be tucked away and put back together in under 10 seconds, and use that as your office space. Bonus: You get a window view from your desk now. Good luck!
I have jacknife sofa/bed in my glamper. For me, it's really the perfect solution and easily convertible from bed to office. The downside is finding a comfortable bed, as most convertible sofa/beds are notoriously uncomfortable. There are commercial, electric driven ones, but, I think a good shop can build a sofa/bed that works comfortably.
I appreciate your authenticity and the genuine frustration you are expressing. I’ve been binging videos and so many people smile while talking about stressful things.
As a 46 year old woman I've been building my house in the woods by my self --now I kind of wish I'd done the RVing thing first, cuz it's taken YEARS longer than I ever thought (thanks pandemic). I just want to say how inspiring it is to see a woman so young exploring your passions confidently and sharing your fears makes it all more real and helpful for me to anticipate my own upcoming RVing... It took me until about 37 to fully, freely explore... Alongside building my little cabin, I've been dream planning my vehicle for years, and now finally getting to looking for a vehicle. You're really helping me think of some major decisions that are going to make my first vehicle way more satisfying. I SUPER appreciate what you're saying about being REAL and RVing versus 'vanlife glamping' basically. That's exactly the stuff I need to know. TY! This is 2 years old so maybe not an issue anymore, but I wish I had a solution for you to most easily feel more safe. I know it wouldn't help if your rig was stolen, but I know having just a wifi cam trained on the inside or front door of my cabin so I can see my place is okay no matter where I'm at, is a big calming thing for me. And it would involve an additional cell plan but there are simple cell/gps tracking devices you can get online. You're super inspiring! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing!!
This young woman is terrific. Her self awareness is awesome for a 22 year old, or maybe even for a 79 year old. Wish her luck which she probably won't need.
Back in the 80s, when I was 21, I traveled in a 1965 VW bus with my girl friend. We hit 45 states and most national parks! Things sure have changed. But glad to see young people out there in vans!
back in the 1970s I traveled in a 1972 VW Bug. I took out the back rest of the passenger seat and slept comfortably there. I hit 31 states. I could fill the tank from empty for less than $3. I was a hairdresser and did haircuts at campgrounds for $5. I guess it was fun at the time, but I barely remember any of it anymore. Now, more than anything I've done in my life, is appreciate the investments and finances I made when I was young and able. Memories fade, cash, paid off mortgage and security doesn't.
@@eckankar7756 What a pity you haven't kept your memories! 😟 Life is for living, and adventure is the spice of life. What comes through in your comment is that you have lost more than your memories - you've lost the spice! 😥😥
First video of yours I've ever seen. You seem both incredibly on edge and completely comfortable at the same time and it's slightly unnerving yet oddly comforting.
No matter which way you cut it, living in a van is just camping, it’s a camping lifestyle, you will always compromise living in a van, it’s never going to be perfect, it’s never going to be like a house, you will always be compromising one way or the other, but that’s life isn’t it. I hope you got your bigger rig. 13:42 😊
Brilliant. Most spot on video I’ve watched. I’m a 68yr old just retired handyman and can’t wait to finish my transit bus build. Videos like inspire me and confirm my thoughts. Functionality, simplicity and a view (bus has windows everywhere). It’s a very different approach and I can’t wait to show it off.
SECURITY AFTER THE FACT: I also converted a van without realizing the security aspect and have retrofitted security that is effective and inexpensive. I have a 2006 sprinter and have secured all doors so I can exit the driver door which is the only door I had to modify with an exterior lock. 1) Back doors - I use a cargo strap from Harbor Freight and hook it to the top latching post of the locking back door. Close your first back door then close your locking door. Then above your sliding side door there are punch out holes, take the other end of cargo strap and hook it into the punch out hole then ratchet it tight. That will secure your back doors. 2) Side slide door- Two problems a) Sliding it open - I have one lashing strap (again Harbor Freight) with hooks on both ends. For this I had to drill a 1/4 hole in the bottom rib of my slide door to fit the hook into. Some vans already have punch out holes so you may not need to drill. On the base of my passenger seat is where my diesel heater is I use the access hole's frame to hook the other end of my strap. Once the strap is tightened the slide isn't opening. If you don't have a opening in the seat base or don't want to drill you can use another strap to warp around the base and once tightened will make a tether point that is barely noticeable. b) Pealing the side door off from the top - Thieves have started using crowbars to stick into the top of the side slide and peal down the door until it pops the hinges. Again using small cargo stapes, I drilled two holes, one far left and one far right, into the doors top rib and use the punch out holes in the door frame to use two more small lashing straps. 3) Passenger door - Small lashing strap tethered to the passenger seat base and then fastened to the passenger door using a 1/4 drilled hole. 4) Van exterior security lock - I went with a manual lock that latches down to the frame. It cost $350 including installation. There are other options that are less expensive. 5) SimpliSafe security ($25 per month )system works great. They will not be able to dispatch the police but will call you when the alarm goes off. Also the system runs off of 12 volts. 6) Engine kill switch 7) Securing your valuables. If they can't find it they can take it. I have a false bottom to my sofa. If you manage to snap the decorative panel off there is a old safety deposit box where I keep my cash and important papers. It pulls out like a drawer. However, if you can manage to take the drawer out one of the sides to the drawer frame comes out and that is where computers and cameras go. It may not be fool proof but if you are going to take my stuff you are going to work for it. Not including SimpliSafe & the exterior lock the total cost is about $50 buck and some time. I will tell you even if you have a key to the van and it is strapped down when you pull on any of the doors you get zero movement. They don't budge at all. I don't always go into total lockdown but when I get that feeling I know I can get it secure enough to make whoever wants my stuff have to call a tow truck to get it.
@@TheAllang123 First I have a face for Radio. Second my van has been on stand by since Covid19. I learned real fast you can go anywhere but once you get there you can't do anything when everything is shut down. My lesson learned is vans don't sit well. My van will need a little rehab before it would be camera ready. Plus there are a few respectable videos out there that have shown up in the last year or two. Search "Van Security". Some of these videos have Ideas that are much more cleaver than what I did. Had I'd seen them I may have done a few things differently.
@@mperdue12 lmfao…”face for radio!!” That was hilarious!!! What you find unattractive about yourself?? There are people out here that actually go for humor and other awesome qualities about people…Not everyone is shallow…I have honestly dated 1guy based on his looks…From that guy on?? I go for personality…I’m sure there are other men and women that feel the same…Just reading what you wrote? (I’m not trying to pick you up for the record…I’m just pointing this out to you lol) you have a great sense of humor, you’re intelligent, you’re able to express your thoughts and get your message across…3 great qualities about yourself…just in case you didn’t know this lol…Have a great night…thanks for your input..,it was valuable ❤️♥️❤️
I really appreciate the full disclosure!!! Everyone else tries to paint van life as perfect with no negatives.....thanks for presenting the real life logistic situations that will prepare any newbie when doing their build!!!😁😁😁😁
When Building a van, Don't build it until you have tried it, Throw a mattress in the empty van & a few essentials & sleep in the van for a few nights while you decide EXACTLY What You need & don't need. Try different options of Layout. Slowly discover what you need. & where best to fit it. Also try to use very minimal wood to save weight for better performance & Fuel economy.
How on earth is this the first time you’ve popped into my TH-cam feed?!?!? You’re awesome! Seriously, one of the most authentic van lifers I’ve watched. I’m old enough to be your Mom and I think you’re such a wonderful woman!! I hope that you get the van that will make you happier and your life better!
I love the authenticity and honesty of this. I have been dreaming of living in a bus for 20ish years now and now that my son is about to leave the nest, I can finally make the move. Interestingly enough, I am super scared of getting a vehicle that is too large. I have been living out of a tiny car for a few weeks at a time and I love the flexibility to be able to get into parking garages and easily find a parking lot. Now I have just found the van of my dreams with mostly the buildout already done in a way I want and I didnt think it was possible, the only thing is it is quite a bit bigger than I planned for. And it is still quite a lot smaller than what you have. So your point about mental health and potentially not being able to do this long term in a smaller rig is hitting me hard right now. I am potentially signing the purchasing contract tomorrow and there are quite a few downsides and my head says I should get the original plan (even smaller and buildout myself even though I have no tools and no experience) or follow my heart ... and then you bring a third point into it. Wait. You also just mentioned that any decision is pretty much immediately contradicted online. Hah. Yeah. I feel that right now.
I owned a 148" Transit and it was quite spacious. My layout was temporary, so that I could remove it and use the van for other things, but I had it decked out with everything I needed and I never felt like I was in a small space. It was so easy to drive and didn't feel its size at all. I ended up trading it in (which I regret), but I loved the van and was happy with it. And I agree, heating blankets are so nice. I went on a trip to Myrtle Beach and then Florida at a time when winter was holding on in the negative digits. I stayed warm in the van by sleeping in my clothes and using two comforters. I did have a buddy heater, but I didn't use it. At Myrtle, it was -13 degrees fahrenheit, but I stayed warm with an electric space header at the campgrounds there. By the time I made it to Florida, the temps had normalized. Transits are a solid choice for van life, because of the reliability. I just saw that Maddie Taylor has a catalytic issue with her RAM van, which is expensive to get fixed. I haven't heard of major expensive Transit repairs yet.
I’ve been enjoying your content for a while, but haven’t left a comment till now! I love your authenticity. I’m planning on converting a sprinter and getting back onto the road here soon and you brought up some points I hadn’t thought about - especially when it comes to the work space area. Thanks!
Living in our converted sprinter now and yes to that work space area! We have two kiddos with us so finding the space in a van is next to impossible. If you can find the space your productivity shoots up!
This video is SO good!!! oh my!!! I'm speechless and so thankful that you were so generous to share all of your learnings. I'm in the early planning stage and I'm a single woman, with two small dogs, who works for my employer remotely (so separating the bedroom from work space, having enough windows and what am I looking at while working were super helpful points you made) so EVERYTHING you shared in your video felt like you were answering all of my questions that I had (e.g. worrying about my two 7 lbs. dogs left alone in my van, worrying about their safety and not being stolen). Wow! I'm so grateful that I came across your channel. I love your authenticity and openness and I love seeing your happy, cute pup in the backgroung. I subscribed to your channel and turned on getting all the notifications. Thank you so much, Mariah! ~Roksana
So much yes in this video. Many of the TH-cam builds are weekenders that don't actually live full time. I share these same thoughts with people that are van-curious all the time. A few notes, I've learned to avoid using the grey tank all together. And remember converting the bed to desk and back will both take over 40 seconds. I dont like having to "convert" things in my builds. Im lazy about that and I know it would just stay as a bed always.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Like with so many upgrades on homes, whether on the ground or on 4 wheels, have you thought of keeping the van, since it is and has been reliable, parking it and renovating it to be like you want? The one very important thing I've learned in my life, if you have a car or van that has never let you down, keep it. This lesson took me years to learn but then I followed this rule and I now enjoy my car of over 251k miles and it doesn't let me down. You can save a boat load of money and keep the trust you have in your van. Make safety changes, adding a pair of tanks, easy and if you have the watts, add a induction stove burner, mine is awesome, plug it in turn it on, cook. Just my thoughts to add to yours, great ideas you have, keep grounded, stay safe and yes take care.
I like the analogy with the home being put through an earthquake every time it’s driven. Good thing to remember when deciding whether to skimp on materials.
In casebno one has mentioned it, I have a suggestion to fix two of your issues. Place cameras around the outside of the van and then place a virtual window behind where you work that shows one if the camera views. Cruise ships now add them to inner cabins. It isn't too much money (feed USB cameras to a raspberry pi streamed to a monitor) and you now have a security system and a window without having to cut the hole and loose the insulation.
thank you for the honest, transparent video. I'm in Italy. . . in the military. have no. . . . absolute no desire to do van life. . . . but you definitely convey a lot of emotion through your videos and to put It frankly ( it's real ). I wish more people in the world communicated like you
Living in fear is not living. You can’t control everything. You can’t control what other people do or don’t do. Please focus on what you can control and stop worrying about things. It’s not a healthy way to live your life. Please take these words to heart. Great video and have a great week.
As someone who's planning to go full-time this year, I really appreciate the things you mentioned as your regrets. I will definitely keep all of them in mind. Thank you for sharing your knowledge! ❤️
I’ve watched dozens and dozens of vanlife videos. This video is the realest one I’ve watched. I usually don’t click on the “this is the truth of vanlife” or “5 things I like and don’t like about vanlife” but this one is actually really good and gives me some things to consider when I start my van in the future.
At least you’ve managed to live through all the bad parts - that’s commitment. You’re a brave, creative, free spirited bad ass and you’re a damn inspiration ❤️ I’m excited to see your next rig, whenever that happens!
You're such a good doggy mom, you worrying so much about Finn shows what an amazing heart you have. I think as a solo female traveler the more stealthy your home on wheels is the better. I saw a utility truck conversion that from the outside was a plain white truck and the inside was a studio apartment with shower and toilet and too really throw people off the gentleman threw a construction vest on the dash, it was pretty epic 😎
I really appreciate that you did talk about things that I don’t normally hear, van life is something I’m working towards and this is all SUPER helpful!
7:21 I saw a bed design that I really like in a van. A Murphy bed. It folds up against the wall. That way you’re not stuck with a bed in your van all the time, and it’s not a pain to convert into a table every morning
I just got a transit and I'm SO glad i found this video before designing the interior. Thank you so much for being honest about what you would change it's super helpful to know what certain ideas will translate into irl!
@@mcduck5 I see far more Mercs than Transits these days. They might be expensive, but at least parts are available. I had the Ford Transit specialist onto my van and they couldn't get a new power steering pump. It's been sitting in my driveway for about 4 years as a result.
@@rogerramjet6429 the problem must be rare. What I hear is common with Mercedes is that when you breakdown on the road, you need to find a Mercedes mechanic. There are Ford dealers in every town or county in America. That is a big deal. Otherwise you be in a towing nightmare.
Well done! This is the type of "van tour" more people need to do! I just started a Promaster build, and your first remark about 90% of people just reiterating what they've seen others do is SO true from the research I've been doing! Just because something is popular and keeps getting copied doesn't mean it's best. I think by doing what you just did, going through a realistic pros/cons of your build after living in it, would result in people making more educated decisions on how they build their van. Thanks for making this, I took notes haha! 😁
I think the #1 rule is MAKE THE INTERIOR MIND-BLOWING. Every time i open my eyes, my disco explosion van THRILLS ME like in in Oz. (Gold glitter curtains! colored xmas lights! weird art and musical instruments! And strangers all thrill at it too. I just sleep in a quilt on the carpeted floor in a Chevy Astro van i tricked out for about $100! I didn't need anything fancy, like a fridge. I eliminated most of those issues. EX: She said she hates looking at a wall....so either put some fun art there or even a big photo of a nature scene. That stuff matters.
Cheers for this video. Loved the positives and the negatives. Down to earth and honest breakdown. Thank you from someone contemplating the van life: "think of it as an RV" .... "a good summary: give yourself as many options as possible" by making it an RV that can take you as many places as possible, layout flexibility and functionality. LOVE LOVE LOVE. Good advice.
My dream is to own a shop where I take cars and improve them to the persons liking. And buy vans and make them specific ways like one for gamers or travelers. Or van life people. It would be so cool. I love engineering and designing stuff. Can’t wait to start
For the bed-table setup. I've heard complaints not just of the time it takes but dust, dirt, and sand getting into the cushions and thus your bed. To go along with the 20 second rule I've been looking at the Happijac bed lift or sets of linear actuators. More expensive, but you can splice your bedroom and work space into two parts and effortlessly swap between them
I find your material interesting. I'm in the planning stages of a conversion. Amazed that you started at 20. I would have loved to have done this at 20! My bestie and I talked about living in a van while in HS. By graduation, things had changed and our plans went on hold. Good for you for exploring your unknown.
I’m considering getting a small van or RV for occasional, short term trips, so this information has got me thinking about my needs versus wants. Excellent points. Thanks
Great honest information. I do understand the anxiety related to your dog. Nothing is scarier than not knowing where your dog is at even if they are under the bush. Be safe.
As someone with 3 children, I think your concern for Finn is completely understandable, as he is like your child to you. On a side note, I drove from Arizona to Maine for a 3 week trip in summer and slept in the back of my KIA soul at Love's truck stops most nights. Wanderlust. I loved it! Happy travelling!
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for taking about how having a bed in your work space can be so difficult for people. I lived in a car for 5 years and am now in a studio apartment and the number 1 thing I love about it is that I have a bed that goes away during the day and let's me spend my days working in an actual office at home. It turns my studio apartment into a 1 bedroom and is so, so important for my mental health to help me feel like I have more space and am not living and working in a dorm room.
I'm 89 this year and a widower. I got into the camper life last year because I've always been an adventurous soul and not prepared to quietly wither away in an old age home until I croak. What I've notice about all these type of videos about van life is that most of the folks are young and full of piss and vinegar. So here's some advice. Stop looking for the perfect solution to van life! I suggest you chill, smell the roses, live in the moment and enjoy the view. All this energy trying to find the perfect solution is a trap. Of course there's always room for improvement, but don't become obsessed with it. Live in the moment.
I love this video! So much good information with a charming, totally authentic presentation. I think I have included all of the items on your wish list in my rig and I realize now I am building for RV Life, not Van Life because I too am going for quality. Tune into some Eckhert Tolle during your R&R.
Thank you for the honesty and tips! You are doing great and seems like you are aware of your fears and do something about it. This decisions are not easy, you are learning as you do it. I started an RV life 2 years ago (no full time, but kind of part time) and over time I discovered many things I wish I made different.
Great video! Speaking from experience - never charge your devices in a cabinet like that. Charging generates heat, shorts happen, fires inside a cabinet often get out of control before you even notice something is happening, and (this is the one I learned the hard way) never charge devices unattended while you are out adventuring. Safe travels. :D
I was watching this as I'm thinking of giving up my Skoolie Short bus, and getting a van like yours, but really , I identify with what you said about the head room, the floor space and I think Id be claustrophobic. So you've helped me decide to keep my bus but I will still follow you as you have such good information!
Life's a dance we learn as we grow! You have done a vantastic job on this, a kitchen window I agree ! I noticed alot of van lifer are now deciding on upgrading to cuz of believing everyone else. Bob Wells gives great advice . If you are looking for a short AMAZING bus, Skooliana is for sale with all you just said and I would definitely get it if I knew I could drive one. In a heartbeat! Seriously gonna go test me and my heart say's do it it's got all you need and want Debbe. The pup's will love it. I danced for 67 year's and NOW it's time to do my bucket list. Happy trail's and much love from Texas 💜
It's nice seeing someone be genuinely honest about the "van life" thing. My opinion, don't give up just because the " v1.0" didn't work out. You're already living that lifestyle. Just figure out how to make it work for you.
Oh- one more thing - I did the school bus with wheelchair conversion. It was AMAZING for living, but as a car, was less than ideal. Underpowered, TERRIBLE gas mileage, and the safety features were.... nonexistent. I'd stick with the van chassis if it were me - that is my next rig for sure. (LWB transit). Since gas mileage is a thing you mentioned in the past, I thought I'd share my experience. :-)
I get 12-15 with E-Series my v10 or 5.4 in 2013-2014 E350s. Since they are the same MPG, I WANT the v10 power for pulling a CJ7 on a single axle alum trailer AND climbing mountain passes...additonally the 2014 E350 v10s have a 5 speed trans that has a VERY aggressive downshifting "trailering mode" that is excellent for descending mountains.
I've got a 5 window chevy bus with van chassis. It gets terrible mileage (10mpg), drives slow (60mph is kind of pushing it), but it's an ideal sized living space that still manages to fit into a standard parking space. The best security features you can add are a locking safe bolted into the metal frame for your valuables and extra locks on the doors to deter thieves. The windows will always be a vulnerability, so you have to be comfortable with the idea that if someone really wants to get in they can. Between me and my 100lb dog, I'm not worried about it. I could never go for a smaller sized cargo van. The lack of windows or space to stand up straight would drive me crazy. The price is also a huge deciding factor in why I chose a bus. I bought mine in cash, whereas cargo vans are very expensive and I would have had to finance it. With the money I would have spent on financing I can afford to park at state campgrounds nonstop if I wanted to. I definitely think a bus is a better option if you want to move around less and have more inside space, and if you don't want the commitment of long term financing.
thank you for the honesty in your experience! I hear in your voice what I have seen in myself many times. I hope you find peace and safety in your environment as you continue to learn and develop.
1:34 on vinyl flooring. I actually have a really high quality sheet vinyl flooring in my room. I think any kind of sheet vinyl flooring would hold up very well. I totally agree with. A lot of the solutions on TH-cam may not be the best. Obviously there may be downsides to sheet vinyl flooring too (like health), but I think, overall, it would work great in an RV context.
Experience & hindsight are two wonderful things along with a good dose of Common Sense which you seem to have nailed Oh & being able to learn from the first two & adapt the way you do things to suit. 10/10 for getting this far. Take care & have fun 😌
Life's Wisdom is acquired by f**king up a lot of sh*t! So awesome to hear you tying your consequences to the decisions made early in the process - being accountable results in having the knowledge to improve. Self Love is the constant balance of trusting yourself to make bold decisions AND forgiving yourself for those bold decisions when they go less right. Enjoy.
I loved this video! I totally agree with so much of my van build, very lucky I listened to my Auntie about placement of the bench and desk. Kicking myself about the safe. I have a simple fix for gas stove, use an alcohol stove. You can use hand santiser, a few squirts to light it, and you can buy 5 litre tanks (I'm in the UK) of and it's fairly cheap. and then you're not having to lift gas tanks up and down and out of the way.
I swear this was one of the most straightforward and super-useful, no-nonsense, video. A huuuge thank you, I am now sure that what was my gut feeling I need to listen to. I will be a first time solo traveller, at 55, yet, the maximum space I'll be able to afford it's going to be my choice (and all the other things you recommend!). xx
Mariah, so thankful that you made this video for all of us who are still taking steps towards their ideal rigs. We needed to make arrangements during our home termite tenting and I chose an RV. I figured this would be the test for me to learn if I was cutout for Vanlife. Ah! Boy did it test us! I rented a 24’ RV from a known website, let’s just say it all looked good on paper , the customer service from the owner (which they own several RV rentals) the rig and pricing. I had never driven a large box like it but it drove very well. Got to the RV park with our dogs , fish bowl and kids. Set up the AC, water and started living, all the while noting a couple of things like Truck AC was not functioning at its best or that the fridge was taking a long time to cool. Next day all heck broke lose in the middle of the night alarms went off and I had to start troubleshooting a rig that wasn’t mine at 3 am. While the rest of the RV park slept 🤣 While we went through it with flying colors, I added many mental notes for future reference: light colors for the walls, building the electrical with someone so I know what goes where, designing my own space and like you mentioned- USING THE BEST PRODUCTS! (QUALITY OVER QUANTITY) you reaffirmed all these things in my head as I watched your video this morning. Thank you for being honest and sharing your thoughts with us! You do rock ! Just the last comment 💗💗💗 Blessings and safety on the road for you and Finn! BTW- I LOVE Vanlife !!!✅
Hey, I've just discovered your channel and can honestly say that I absolutely get where you're coming from. My first van just about broke me (built entirely from TH-cam advice) but I absolutely love the van I have now and I cannot imagine ever parting with it. If it's any help with your decision making I've got an Iveco Daily (extra long wheelbase & high top) and absolutely love it for too many reasons to list here. The key components that make it perfect for me are as follows: 1. Happy Jaks bed (jacks up to the roof during the day giving seating and table area & jacks down at night, bed stays made up at all times). These work so great for me and give a huge amount of extra space. 2. Truma combi heater (air and water). I have LPG with underslung tank, diesel is also available. This is THE absolute game changer. 3. Underslung fresh and waste water. Insulated and also with low voltage internal heating (so it does not freeze). 4. Built in induction cook top and LPG oven. 5. Thetford combi shower room / bathroom kit. This combination has been perfect for me for about 3 years now and I'm loving being on the road again. Hope it's of some help to you, even if just for some ideas. Really enjoying your channel, Cameron.
I have liked the idea of a raiseable bed. To put sports equipment under on the way to races (dog sledding on wheels = dryland mushing). But hadn't heard the name of the manufacturer before now. It was a feature offered by ModVans.
Dear Mariah, Your Blogs/ Videos are a true example of Reality!!! I love your Style. Girl I hope You travel to Ontario Canada one day. It's a awesome 4 season Province
I'm with you on needing separate spaces. I'm building an elevator bed and having a desk fold down from the bottom. that way I keep the bed, the living space, and office separate. And I'm doing the pop up table to bed thing so I have an extra bed and a dining table. I figure having a separate desk that's easily accessible would be way more productive for me.
Thanks for this video! I helps me a lot when I want to build my own Van; perhaps next year. The 26 seconds rule is awesome and so true. Making your stove within the counter blade is not hard to realize and will you make cook even more :) So nice to see how you take good care of Finn. He's such happy dog. Take care and it's always fun to wait for your next video!
Updated: I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living. I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc. People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living. I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself. Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this. I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful. I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors. I shared this with another traveler as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others. Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience. Although, you may have knowledge of this already, I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone. *Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle. You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage Do your research for the best fit for you Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables. Consider theses items: *Mini portable power charging station. I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices. *Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell reception, Research to see what you prefer. *Very Inportant: Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location. There are various types of these devices, and including devices that can be used when boating or camping situations. *Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders. Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone. You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS devices will be a good fit for you. *Mini portable vehicle battery charger-( portable vehicle battery jumper cables ) *Vehicle Jumper cables Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly. Exterior vehicle cameras Interior vehicle cameras *Flashlights or pluggin spotlights *Portable spotlights, and lanterns Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console *A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies. Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons. Don’t forget to bring Bear Spray Pepper spray Where is allowed Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels. You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions. Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions. Keep your vehicle gas filled Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty. Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on. Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors. Keep Enjoying Yourself, Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature Just..Please continue to Be Positive, Safe, and Alert.. Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All. God Bless You, and everyone Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc. Please Be Safe..... Author Advocate for Humanity, Safety Advocate Jason Sandifer, Michigan 10/03/2022, 10/02/2022
I thank you for your pro and cons. I've never heard of a 20 second rule. But with building you haft to think of all the challenges you face. And you haft to apply or incorporate them. If you flipped the inside around.yes see your kitchen. But see the clouds shadow move over the mountains. Out the big window. And I would of put a gas range in. But again it's a space issue. And one thing I done for a friend about his personal lock up stuff. Is I welded a safe to frame. And found him grey water and fresh water tanks on Amazon. The most important thing is you learn from mistakes! Is you can fix them or your next build you keep them in mind. Thanks for sharing!!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you. I’ve sifted through over 100 hrs of van build videos and came to the same conclusions about the fan and floors. Definitely a correlation between mental health and living space, and is as different as each individual. Also, remember that the size and type of your van is probably the most reliable and most economical, ‘bang for the buck’. You may want to reconsider making mods to an already well built rig, rather than starting from scratch, or worse, buying someone else’s problem. If I woke up in your shoes, I’d take a really close look at the mods option before spending megabucks on something new. JMHO, Good luck! PS, I just subscribed because I’m interested in seeing which decision you make.
I feel that your next conversion will be amazing... You know the pitfalls to address through bitter experience. Love your 40 sec rule. Applies to house living too so if it takes more than 40 seconds to extricate your ironing board and set it up, you're far less likely to get the job started! Good luck with your ventures, Mariah...
I love Kara & Nate's safe and the pillow packing trick! I have been building out my tiny Ford Transit Connect and can only get away with something so small because I'm only part-time. Your points are so valid and you have learned so much over the past year+!! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!!
Regarding the stove situation: exchange the propane coleman for a butane one. Literally twenty seconds or less to set up. The canister stays in, you just have to move a lever to engage it. Changed my camping game.
I appreciate your approach to life. You are a young and adventurous woman that has addressed these challenges with a cool head. Love the fact that your pup is so important to you. Be well. Stay safe. Seek adventure.
great information! wow, can't believe it's been a year of watching your videos! I'm surprised that bathroom set up isn't mentioned...that would legit be my first concern.
Love the video and the honesty, there are so many things that we learned building our van and are still learning while living in our van. I do think that you can have a fixed bed, shower and living area in a smaller van though. We spent ages designing our layout and managed it. Your van is great though and would love to see what you do in your next van!
Thanks for the honest and unique perspective on the details of small van builds and living! It's a very helpful reference for me while I am making choices and decisions.
Great video. Thanks! I too can not live without the heated blanket. I do have a hack for saving electricity with it. I hooked up a garden timer between the blanket and the outlet. I set the timer to 30 minutes. When i go to bed, i tap the button to start the timer. The heated blanket puts me to sleep pretty quick and it turns off after 30 min. I usually sleep thru the night but if it is really cold and i wake up, i just reach over, slap the button for more heat.
Happy Thanksgiving and Have and Merry Christmas *Newly Updated Safety Suggestions: for Campers, Explorers, Travelers* I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living. Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels, displaying van living. I just wanted to remind everyone to Aware Be of your surroundings and Alert, I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc... People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living. I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself. Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this. I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful. I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors. I shared this with several other travelers, as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others. Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience. Although, you may have knowledge of this already, I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone. *Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle. You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage Do your research for the best fit for you Consider Carrying Several Extra portable cellphone phone chargers, and cables. Consider theses items: *Mini portable power charging station. I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices. *Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception. Consider also the purchase of a WiFi signal booster to also boost your WiFi signal. Research to see what you prefer. *Very Inportant: Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location. There are various types of these devices, and including devices that can be used when boating, or camping situations. *Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders. Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone. There are some satellite SOS texting messaging, locator devices that will send messages with your phone even if there isn’t any cellular signal, or WiFi. With this device your can still text, and communicate with others in a emergency satellite transmission. Check online, for various emergency SOS products, some are small to fit in the palm of your hand. You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS devices will be a good fit for you. *Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger *vehicle battery jumper cables *Vehicle Jumper cables *PLEASE BE AWARE* that in the *WINTER* *vehicle *Batteries fail* many times in very cold weather conditions. Vehicle batteries drain more often in the winter months. Please Keep a vehicle battery portable jumper pack, this is a device that can jumper or boost your vehicles battery yourself without another vehicle. If you have a older battery in your vehicle, Please have it tested or replace it, and consider the purchase a new vehicle battery with higher Cold Cranking Amps rating. Be Aware that Sometimes even a battery that is a few years old can fail in the Winter months, and extremely cold temperatures. Some alternatives to Winter Camping, Travelers, Explorers, etc, if you can find a Warmer Climate Location to stay during Extreme Winter months, or stay with family for a few weeks. Another alternative is renting somewhere, Hotel, Apartment, although it can probably get expensive. What ever you decide, or choose to do or as a possible alternative, Please Be Careful, Alert, Aware, Safe, and Informed... *Keep a Fire extinguisher handy *Smoke detectors, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful Consider installing; *Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly. *Exterior vehicle mounted camera for the front, rear, and both sides of your vehicle. Some can be activated by motion, Including spotlights. *Interior vehicle cameras *Flashlights or pluggin spotlights *Portable spotlights, and lanterns Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console *Keep a Sound horn, for hiking this can service, as a deterrent, and a emergency signal alert for others. *A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies, you can keep with you when hiking. Use your own discretion regarding the use carrying of any weapons. Don’t forget to bring Bear Spray Pepper spray Where is allowed Purchase a couple canisters just in case and keep it with you If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc. However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings. Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks. Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc. Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions. *VERY IMPORTANT* I would suggest *NOT* to travel to locations without internet, cellular service in the Winter, the reason is that weather conditions can change very quickly, and you absolutely DO NOT want have a vehicle break down, or malfunction, or emergency, and not have the availability to communicate, and contact your family, and or, emergency road assistance, or emergency services. *Safety is Paramount* *Your Life is Important* *You want to Live to Travel another Day* *So Be Safe* *Stay Alert* *Keep your vehicle gas filled* Don’t ride on fumes, or on Empty. Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty. Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on. Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, antifreeze coolant, Please carry extra (oil)(washer fluid), (brake fluid), (antifreeze). You will need extra Winshield Washer fluid because of the ever changing Weather conditions, dustly roads, especially in slushy wet roads. Furthermore, you will need extra Windshield Washer Fluid, Because you will Be driving more often in dusty, dirty, windy, and varying weather conditions. Your windshield will gather dust and debris from long term driving. Also, Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate. Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very. Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump. Electric, Portable tire pump. Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it. It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling. Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors. Keep Enjoying Yourself, Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature Just..Please continue to Be Positive, Safe, and Alert.. Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All. God Bless You, and everyone Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc. Please Be Safe..... God Be With You..... Author Advocate for Humanity, Jason Sandifer, Michigan, 11/15/2022, 11/18/2022 11/20/2022
I'm getting ready to embark on van life with my 17 year old maltese. What you expressed is literally my greatest fear in the world. Or someone breaks in and he gets hurt or let out. Absolutely terrified.
I'm frustrated for you (as a viewer!) - you've generously given us the window view to gorgeous lanscapes, whilst you're left staring at the sink! 😆 have you seen Max's van build series (Max & Occy)? Total van-spiration, he explains his design thought process really well 👌
The 20-second rule. YES!! That totally applies to me. Ive been planning out my van build or a couple of years and have taken that into account. Everything I tackle is adapted so it’s the quickest and easiest for me because I know otherwise I’ll be miserable. I also noticed that trend on the Fantastic vs MaxxAir fans and did my own research and went with the Maxx Air. You gotta do your own research on EVERYTHING.
If you want a twenty second rule then you live in a house. My last cruiser was a 2000 Buick century, I lived in it for a year and a half. Had my stove and cloths in my trunk and slept in the drivers seat every night. It was the best on gas then any other vehicle I've lived in, including living out of a backpack and a tent.
@@djskum My van is small, next time I'll go smaller, I don't need to stand often enough in my van to warrant a 6 foot roof and extra wind drag plus barrier height restrictions. In winter a lower roof of 4 foot will need less heating (fuel) as heat rises wastefully to the ceiling. In the summer or Good weather, I'm outside. The cab can also act like a Good 'office' or mini conservatory. It's shocking how much of my van I block off in colder weather, the living area can go from 5'4" wide by 12'6" long and 6'1" High to 5'4" wide by 6'6" long and 4' High ceiling because of partitioning and I like this mode and use it the most (cosy) although! three weeks at a time is my longest trips. I've had my current van for 5 years, long enough to know what I prefer. I think you're right djskum about the twenty second rule applying more to a house. Mariah mentioned she would be happy changing from bedroom setup to office to dinning yet removing a stove from a drawer and inserting a cannister of gas is a hassle, I don't understand this at all.
This is a legit video. Everything you listed is why I went with a small RV travel trailer. Been it for 4 years and I absolutely love it...all I had to do was paint it and decorate to customize. Also, the truck and truck camper is the real move. Reliable. Mechanics everywhere. If one breaks your house isn't connected to your car. Huge water tanks. And these days, you can buy a NICE truck and camper for the price of a sprinter these days. I never understood why people do vans over RVs. RVs are designed for this and you can customize them but keep the plumbing, hot water heater, house heater, etc
Absolutely true…. We built a little trailer only 5 x 11… 5 in height we Boondock everywhere… Sometimes will go for a month or six weeks… we have 400 watt Solar and a solar shower… but our biggest improvements were a countertop propane stove that we don’t have to connect and disconnect… 25 gallon water tank…lol But the best thing we ever did was installed an awning and the awning room…it’s 10x8 This made the world a difference it’s like having a big living room.. We even have a propane fireplace that we set up in the centre of it and it keeps the bugs out….
I appreciate your transparency re: the relationship between one's physical space and emotional well being. These long-term realities are not addressed in most of the "eager-beaver" van life videos. Thanks for this video!
You are awesome and courageous!!! I FULLY AGREE with everyone of these things you listed! I have had all those same concerns with the different ways I have travelled. My fiancé and I have PURPOSEFULLY declined the whole van idea even though it has been a dream of ours since we met and he actually lived in a van when I met him. We watched tons of videos and I thought the same thing, no one ever talks about the time it takes to do every little thing, nor have I heard very often about space, windows and mental health- which I agree with everything you said! If mental/emotional health declines then what's the point? Your 20 second rule is great and true! And the 5 gallon grey water complaint is totally real! Who wants to constantly change that out?... Anyway, I think you're brilliant and thanks for doing an honest view from a female perspective! I'm almost 60 and have camped and "roughed it" in many ways, just not long-term in a van. We settled on an RV and are very glad, mainly for space and water/holding tanks and toilet/shower, although there is always something pro or con about every choice. We're trying this for now and will switch it up when ready.
![#1 Buying an old Ford Box Truck [to live in]](/img/n.gif)
I’m a 41 year old woman and I’ve been watching your videos for only a few weeks and even though you talk about having a lot of anxiety and fear, I think you are so freaking cool and brave. I let fear hold me back way too often in my 20’s and 30’s and you feel the fear and do what you want to anyways, and that is awesome! I just really admire you.
Im 62 and I think she's frickin cool too!
She’s a brave woman
I’m 55, she is amazingly cool!
I’m 60. I want to be her when I grow up.
@@deborah1russell.russell745 same here!! ✋😀
I've been watching a ton of build videos in preparation for my own build, and you're the first person who's mentioned mental health as a factor, and how design can affect that. I really appreciate that. And it's nice to see some honest emotions.
Don't know if anyone has mentioned, but a good solution for the lack of window in your kitchen would be to put mirrors (either one piece plexiglas or 12" square mirror tiles) on that wall. Easy to do - just put it right over the tile you have there now. This is a trick used to make small apartments look bigger. Might work for you. Cheap and easy enough to do! Hope this helps. 🙂
Yea I thought that too...put a mirror over work space and you'll see outside!!...Good luck❤
PEOPLE BREAK IN THROUGH WINDOWS, METAL IS A GREAT THIEF DETERRENT
Yeah, good idea, cuz they you would see what is out the window behind you now as you speak, rather than looking at the sink and faucet. You might have to rig it up so that it tilts forward a little, like with a strip of wood across the top of the back of the mirror before you stick it into place
@@LEELUNK-IS-A-HUNK not in London apparently now they just cutting it , in and out in a min , looking for tools , or so I've heard :-/ I would maybe have a low watt led set up to look like a tv is on or something like that that activates when someone is close by when I'm out , also alarms cameras etc etc
I could feel the anxiety in your voice. I am 26 from India. Got divorced recently. Had been facing mental health problems for about 2 years straight although improving slowly and gradually. You are doing better and better with decision making skills, expressing your problems to the open world, sharing your lows and high. Regrets and Proud moments. Seeing you makes me feel better. I love your voice.
I cured my anxiety by exposing myself little by little to the agents and situations that I used to find intolerable. Since then, I do recommend gradual exposure as a method of healing (or control). 💪🌷
@@Calendula_3.6 severe/generalized anxiety disorder is very different than casual anxiety and a lot of people get confused
Stop and smell the roses.with respect.
YOG which is now known as YOGA, take help from there.
After a couple of years of non-stop watching videos on campervans, conversions, lifestyle, pros and cons, etc. I can honestly say that this is the best and most truthfull video i've encountered. You have just won my subscription.
Totally agree
Same!
Great tips. Just remember that converting your bed to a table and back to a bed will take considerably longer than 40 seconds each time. You may like it better at first, but you will grow to hate it. Just put your passenger seat on a swivel, install a Lugun table that can be tucked away and put back together in under 10 seconds, and use that as your office space. Bonus: You get a window view from your desk now. Good luck!
I agree! I’m saving for the swivel base now…those darn things are expensive! Totally worth it though.
@@firequeen2194, cool. Good luck in your travels!
I have jacknife sofa/bed in my glamper. For me, it's really the perfect solution and easily convertible from bed to office. The downside is finding a comfortable bed, as most convertible sofa/beds are notoriously uncomfortable. There are commercial, electric driven ones, but, I think a good shop can build a sofa/bed that works comfortably.
One solution (though it won't be cheap) is an elevator bed tucked up under the ceiling so your seating area doesn't have to be dismantled every night.
@@wakingtheworld, I love that idea. A Murphy bed would also work. I've seen some great examples of those.
Finn just living his best life in the background always makes me smile
Loved the honesty and perspective. Hide your cards in a box of tampons or some other unexpected place until you get the security system you need
I appreciate your authenticity and the genuine frustration you are expressing. I’ve been binging videos and so many people smile while talking about stressful things.
As a 46 year old woman I've been building my house in the woods by my self --now I kind of wish I'd done the RVing thing first, cuz it's taken YEARS longer than I ever thought (thanks pandemic). I just want to say how inspiring it is to see a woman so young exploring your passions confidently and sharing your fears makes it all more real and helpful for me to anticipate my own upcoming RVing... It took me until about 37 to fully, freely explore... Alongside building my little cabin, I've been dream planning my vehicle for years, and now finally getting to looking for a vehicle. You're really helping me think of some major decisions that are going to make my first vehicle way more satisfying. I SUPER appreciate what you're saying about being REAL and RVing versus 'vanlife glamping' basically. That's exactly the stuff I need to know. TY! This is 2 years old so maybe not an issue anymore, but I wish I had a solution for you to most easily feel more safe. I know it wouldn't help if your rig was stolen, but I know having just a wifi cam trained on the inside or front door of my cabin so I can see my place is okay no matter where I'm at, is a big calming thing for me. And it would involve an additional cell plan but there are simple cell/gps tracking devices you can get online. You're super inspiring! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing!!
This young woman is terrific. Her self awareness is awesome for a 22 year old, or maybe even for a 79 year old. Wish her luck which she probably won't need.
Back in the 80s, when I was 21, I traveled in a 1965 VW bus with my girl friend. We hit 45 states and most national parks! Things sure have changed. But glad to see young people out there in vans!
Glad you made that trip when young. Glad I traveled back when things were different.
That’s cool 😎
back in the 1970s I traveled in a 1972 VW Bug. I took out the back rest of the passenger seat and slept comfortably there. I hit 31 states. I could fill the tank from empty for less than $3. I was a hairdresser and did haircuts at campgrounds for $5. I guess it was fun at the time, but I barely remember any of it anymore. Now, more than anything I've done in my life, is appreciate the investments and finances I made when I was young and able. Memories fade, cash, paid off mortgage and security doesn't.
@@eckankar7756 What a pity you haven't kept your memories! 😟
Life is for living, and adventure is the spice of life. What comes through in your comment is that you have lost more than your memories - you've lost the spice! 😥😥
What do you think of the world your generation has voted and worked into existence so far?
First video of yours I've ever seen. You seem both incredibly on edge and completely comfortable at the same time and it's slightly unnerving yet oddly comforting.
Ageeeeeee
No matter which way you cut it, living in a van is just camping, it’s a camping lifestyle, you will always compromise living in a van, it’s never going to be perfect, it’s never going to be like a house, you will always be compromising one way or the other, but that’s life isn’t it. I hope you got your bigger rig. 13:42 😊
Brilliant. Most spot on video I’ve watched. I’m a 68yr old just retired handyman and can’t wait to finish my transit bus build. Videos like inspire me and confirm my thoughts. Functionality, simplicity and a view (bus has windows everywhere). It’s a very different approach and I can’t wait to show it off.
SECURITY AFTER THE FACT: I also converted a van without realizing the security aspect and have retrofitted security that is effective and inexpensive. I have a 2006 sprinter and have secured all doors so I can exit the driver door which is the only door I had to modify with an exterior lock.
1) Back doors - I use a cargo strap from Harbor Freight and hook it to the top latching post of the locking back door. Close your first back door then close your locking door. Then above your sliding side door there are punch out holes, take the other end of cargo strap and hook it into the punch out hole then ratchet it tight. That will secure your back doors.
2) Side slide door- Two problems a) Sliding it open - I have one lashing strap (again Harbor Freight) with hooks on both ends. For this I had to drill a 1/4 hole in the bottom rib of my slide door to fit the hook into. Some vans already have punch out holes so you may not need to drill. On the base of my passenger seat is where my diesel heater is I use the access hole's frame to hook the other end of my strap. Once the strap is tightened the slide isn't opening. If you don't have a opening in the seat base or don't want to drill you can use another strap to warp around the base and once tightened will make a tether point that is barely noticeable. b) Pealing the side door off from the top - Thieves have started using crowbars to stick into the top of the side slide and peal down the door until it pops the hinges. Again using small cargo stapes, I drilled two holes, one far left and one far right, into the doors top rib and use the punch out holes in the door frame to use two more small lashing straps.
3) Passenger door - Small lashing strap tethered to the passenger seat base and then fastened to the passenger door using a 1/4 drilled hole.
4) Van exterior security lock - I went with a manual lock that latches down to the frame. It cost $350 including installation. There are other options that are less expensive.
5) SimpliSafe security ($25 per month )system works great. They will not be able to dispatch the police but will call you when the alarm goes off. Also the system runs off of 12 volts.
6) Engine kill switch
7) Securing your valuables. If they can't find it they can take it. I have a false bottom to my sofa. If you manage to snap the decorative panel off there is a old safety deposit box where I keep my cash and important papers. It pulls out like a drawer. However, if you can manage to take the drawer out one of the sides to the drawer frame comes out and that is where computers and cameras go. It may not be fool proof but if you are going to take my stuff you are going to work for it.
Not including SimpliSafe & the exterior lock the total cost is about $50 buck and some time. I will tell you even if you have a key to the van and it is strapped down when you pull on any of the doors you get zero movement. They don't budge at all.
I don't always go into total lockdown but when I get that feeling I know I can get it secure enough to make whoever wants my stuff have to call a tow truck to get it.
Thank you. This was very helpful info!
Super helpful, thanks for sharing!
Well thought out. That would make a great video! Please hint hint. Or do you have any pics?
@@TheAllang123 First I have a face for Radio. Second my van has been on stand by since Covid19. I learned real fast you can go anywhere but once you get there you can't do anything when everything is shut down. My lesson learned is vans don't sit well. My van will need a little rehab before it would be camera ready. Plus there are a few respectable videos out there that have shown up in the last year or two. Search "Van Security". Some of these videos have Ideas that are much more cleaver than what I did. Had I'd seen them I may have done a few things differently.
@@mperdue12 lmfao…”face for radio!!” That was hilarious!!! What you find unattractive about yourself?? There are people out here that actually go for humor and other awesome qualities about people…Not everyone is shallow…I have honestly dated 1guy based on his looks…From that guy on?? I go for personality…I’m sure there are other men and women that feel the same…Just reading what you wrote? (I’m not trying to pick you up for the record…I’m just pointing this out to you lol) you have a great sense of humor, you’re intelligent, you’re able to express your thoughts and get your message across…3 great qualities about yourself…just in case you didn’t know this lol…Have a great night…thanks for your input..,it was valuable ❤️♥️❤️
I really appreciate the full disclosure!!! Everyone else tries to paint van life as perfect with no negatives.....thanks for presenting the real life logistic situations that will prepare any newbie when doing their build!!!😁😁😁😁
Love how while you are talking about the down sides of your layout and Finn is relaxing like a king!
As he should :) ❤️
Y god he is the cutest tiny dog I have ever seen 😂
@@MariahAlice 12 volt rice cooker and power station with cig lighter port. Look for the cooker with the cat face on it.
When Building a van, Don't build it until you have tried it,
Throw a mattress in the empty van & a few essentials & sleep in the van for a few nights while you decide EXACTLY What You need & don't need.
Try different options of Layout.
Slowly discover what you need. & where best to fit it.
Also try to use very minimal wood to save weight for better performance & Fuel economy.
How on earth is this the first time you’ve popped into my TH-cam feed?!?!?
You’re awesome!
Seriously, one of the most authentic van lifers I’ve watched.
I’m old enough to be your Mom and I think you’re such a wonderful woman!!
I hope that you get the van that will make you happier and your life better!
I love the authenticity and honesty of this. I have been dreaming of living in a bus for 20ish years now and now that my son is about to leave the nest, I can finally make the move. Interestingly enough, I am super scared of getting a vehicle that is too large. I have been living out of a tiny car for a few weeks at a time and I love the flexibility to be able to get into parking garages and easily find a parking lot. Now I have just found the van of my dreams with mostly the buildout already done in a way I want and I didnt think it was possible, the only thing is it is quite a bit bigger than I planned for. And it is still quite a lot smaller than what you have. So your point about mental health and potentially not being able to do this long term in a smaller rig is hitting me hard right now. I am potentially signing the purchasing contract tomorrow and there are quite a few downsides and my head says I should get the original plan (even smaller and buildout myself even though I have no tools and no experience) or follow my heart ... and then you bring a third point into it. Wait. You also just mentioned that any decision is pretty much immediately contradicted online. Hah. Yeah. I feel that right now.
I owned a 148" Transit and it was quite spacious. My layout was temporary, so that I could remove it and use the van for other things, but I had it decked out with everything I needed and I never felt like I was in a small space. It was so easy to drive and didn't feel its size at all. I ended up trading it in (which I regret), but I loved the van and was happy with it. And I agree, heating blankets are so nice. I went on a trip to Myrtle Beach and then Florida at a time when winter was holding on in the negative digits. I stayed warm in the van by sleeping in my clothes and using two comforters. I did have a buddy heater, but I didn't use it. At Myrtle, it was -13 degrees fahrenheit, but I stayed warm with an electric space header at the campgrounds there. By the time I made it to Florida, the temps had normalized. Transits are a solid choice for van life, because of the reliability. I just saw that Maddie Taylor has a catalytic issue with her RAM van, which is expensive to get fixed. I haven't heard of major expensive Transit repairs yet.
I’ve been enjoying your content for a while, but haven’t left a comment till now! I love your authenticity. I’m planning on converting a sprinter and getting back onto the road here soon and you brought up some points I hadn’t thought about - especially when it comes to the work space area. Thanks!
Living in our converted sprinter now and yes to that work space area! We have two kiddos with us so finding the space in a van is next to impossible. If you can find the space your productivity shoots up!
This video is SO good!!! oh my!!! I'm speechless and so thankful that you were so generous to share all of your learnings. I'm in the early planning stage and I'm a single woman, with two small dogs, who works for my employer remotely (so separating the bedroom from work space, having enough windows and what am I looking at while working were super helpful points you made) so EVERYTHING you shared in your video felt like you were answering all of my questions that I had (e.g. worrying about my two 7 lbs. dogs left alone in my van, worrying about their safety and not being stolen). Wow! I'm so grateful that I came across your channel. I love your authenticity and openness and I love seeing your happy, cute pup in the backgroung. I subscribed to your channel and turned on getting all the notifications. Thank you so much, Mariah! ~Roksana
Want a good read? The Road Less Traveled by M. Scott Peck, MD. It was on the NY time in 1978...and stayed there for 13 years.
So much yes in this video. Many of the TH-cam builds are weekenders that don't actually live full time. I share these same thoughts with people that are van-curious all the time. A few notes, I've learned to avoid using the grey tank all together. And remember converting the bed to desk and back will both take over 40 seconds. I dont like having to "convert" things in my builds. Im lazy about that and I know it would just stay as a bed always.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. Like with so many upgrades on homes, whether on the ground or on 4 wheels, have you thought of keeping the van, since it is and has been reliable, parking it and renovating it to be like you want? The one very important thing I've learned in my life, if you have a car or van that has never let you down, keep it. This lesson took me years to learn but then I followed this rule and I now enjoy my car of over 251k miles and it doesn't let me down. You can save a boat load of money and keep the trust you have in your van. Make safety changes, adding a pair of tanks, easy and if you have the watts, add a induction stove burner, mine is awesome, plug it in turn it on, cook. Just my thoughts to add to yours, great ideas you have, keep grounded, stay safe and yes take care.
Good points.
I like the analogy with the home being put through an earthquake every time it’s driven. Good thing to remember when deciding whether to skimp on materials.
In casebno one has mentioned it, I have a suggestion to fix two of your issues. Place cameras around the outside of the van and then place a virtual window behind where you work that shows one if the camera views. Cruise ships now add them to inner cabins. It isn't too much money (feed USB cameras to a raspberry pi streamed to a monitor) and you now have a security system and a window without having to cut the hole and loose the insulation.
thank you for the honest, transparent video. I'm in Italy. . . in the military. have no. . . . absolute no desire to do van life. . . . but you definitely convey a lot of emotion through your videos and to put It frankly ( it's real ). I wish more people in the world communicated like you
I’ve watch tons of van life videos and this one was the most genuine one I’ve seen! Thank you for honesty and sharing your experience.
Living in fear is not living. You can’t control everything. You can’t control what other people do or don’t do. Please focus on what you can control and stop worrying about things. It’s not a healthy way to live your life. Please take these words to heart. Great video and have a great week.
As someone who's planning to go full-time this year, I really appreciate the things you mentioned as your regrets. I will definitely keep all of them in mind. Thank you for sharing your knowledge! ❤️
Electric blanket are great for jumping into a warm bed.
I’ve watched dozens and dozens of vanlife videos. This video is the realest one I’ve watched. I usually don’t click on the “this is the truth of vanlife” or “5 things I like and don’t like about vanlife” but this one is actually really good and gives me some things to consider when I start my van in the future.
At least you’ve managed to live through all the bad parts - that’s commitment. You’re a brave, creative, free spirited bad ass and you’re a damn inspiration ❤️ I’m excited to see your next rig, whenever that happens!
Nico🌹💞
You're such a good doggy mom, you worrying so much about Finn shows what an amazing heart you have. I think as a solo female traveler the more stealthy your home on wheels is the better. I saw a utility truck conversion that from the outside was a plain white truck and the inside was a studio apartment with shower and toilet and too really throw people off the gentleman threw a construction vest on the dash, it was pretty epic 😎
You’re not living if you don’t have regrets. Ha ha! Learning from them is what makes the adventures better every time. Great info!
I really appreciate that you did talk about things that I don’t normally hear, van life is something I’m working towards and this is all SUPER helpful!
7:21 I saw a bed design that I really like in a van. A Murphy bed. It folds up against the wall. That way you’re not stuck with a bed in your van all the time, and it’s not a pain to convert into a table every morning
I just got a transit and I'm SO glad i found this video before designing the interior. Thank you so much for being honest about what you would change it's super helpful to know what certain ideas will translate into irl!
Good luck getting parts when things break down. NEVER again will I own another Ford.
@@rogerramjet6429 could be worse... like a merc....
@@mcduck5 I see far more Mercs than Transits these days.
They might be expensive, but at least parts are available.
I had the Ford Transit specialist onto my van and they couldn't get a new power steering pump.
It's been sitting in my driveway for about 4 years as a result.
@@rogerramjet6429 You do know the merc is just a a rebadged sangong?
@@rogerramjet6429 the problem must be rare. What I hear is common with Mercedes is that when you breakdown on the road, you need to find a Mercedes mechanic. There are Ford dealers in every town or county in America. That is a big deal. Otherwise you be in a towing nightmare.
Well done! This is the type of "van tour" more people need to do! I just started a Promaster build, and your first remark about 90% of people just reiterating what they've seen others do is SO true from the research I've been doing! Just because something is popular and keeps getting copied doesn't mean it's best.
I think by doing what you just did, going through a realistic pros/cons of your build after living in it, would result in people making more educated decisions on how they build their van.
Thanks for making this, I took notes haha! 😁
I wonder how much the repetition is just marketing and sponsorship from those companies?
@@PNWmtnBKR heaps.. you'll find many are pushing items, given to them by sponsors.
I think the #1 rule is MAKE THE INTERIOR MIND-BLOWING.
Every time i open my eyes, my disco explosion van THRILLS ME like in in Oz. (Gold glitter curtains! colored xmas lights! weird art and musical instruments! And strangers all thrill at it too.
I just sleep in a quilt on the carpeted floor in a Chevy Astro van i tricked out for about $100! I didn't need anything fancy, like a fridge. I eliminated most of those issues.
EX:
She said she hates looking at a wall....so either put some fun art there or even a big photo of a nature scene. That stuff matters.
where did you purchase your promaster? also, are they worth the cost?
@@KitKatCrochetStudio If standing up is important to you, it's probably worth it. Wide and tall.
I am in my 4th year living in a Transit. Everything Mariah says in this video is bang on. I wish everyone planning their build would watch this vid.
And so, after 4 years, how has your Transit performed, in terms of reliability? Thanks...
@@aprilbaisan2800 Very reliably. I have had zero issues over 104,000 miles. I do basic maintenance, mainly changing all fluids as required.
Cheers for this video. Loved the positives and the negatives. Down to earth and honest breakdown. Thank you from someone contemplating the van life: "think of it as an RV" .... "a good summary: give yourself as many options as possible" by making it an RV that can take you as many places as possible, layout flexibility and functionality. LOVE LOVE LOVE. Good advice.
My dream is to own a shop where I take cars and improve them to the persons liking. And buy vans and make them specific ways like one for gamers or travelers. Or van life people.
It would be so cool. I love engineering and designing stuff. Can’t wait to start
The detailed honesty is what made me stick to this video till the end.
I really wish all the best for your future rig 😇
For the bed-table setup. I've heard complaints not just of the time it takes but dust, dirt, and sand getting into the cushions and thus your bed. To go along with the 20 second rule I've been looking at the Happijac bed lift or sets of linear actuators. More expensive, but you can splice your bedroom and work space into two parts and effortlessly swap between them
Experience is always the teacher and as far as Finn is concerned, I can't imagine not taking my dog into consideration first.
I find your material interesting. I'm in the planning stages of a conversion.
Amazed that you started at 20. I would have loved to have done this at 20! My bestie and I talked about living in a van while in HS. By graduation, things had changed and our plans went on hold.
Good for you for exploring your unknown.
I’m considering getting a small van or RV for occasional, short term trips, so this information has got me thinking about my needs versus wants. Excellent points. Thanks
Great honest information. I do understand the anxiety related to your dog. Nothing is scarier than not knowing where your dog is at even if they are under the bush. Be safe.
Your points are just fantastic. Please keep speaking honestly, it's so refreshing in the "van life" scene.
As someone with 3 children, I think your concern for Finn is completely understandable, as he is like your child to you. On a side note, I drove from Arizona to Maine for a 3 week trip in summer and slept in the back of my KIA soul at Love's truck stops most nights. Wanderlust. I loved it! Happy travelling!
This is why I’m doing a shuttle bus … but I love the fact that you’re trying this out and you’re learning from it.
Thank you, thank you, thank you, for taking about how having a bed in your work space can be so difficult for people. I lived in a car for 5 years and am now in a studio apartment and the number 1 thing I love about it is that I have a bed that goes away during the day and let's me spend my days working in an actual office at home. It turns my studio apartment into a 1 bedroom and is so, so important for my mental health to help me feel like I have more space and am not living and working in a dorm room.
I'm 89 this year and a widower. I got into the camper life last year because I've always been an adventurous soul and not prepared to quietly wither away in an old age home until I croak. What I've notice about all these type of videos about van life is that most of the folks are young and full of piss and vinegar. So here's some advice. Stop looking for the perfect solution to van life!
I suggest you chill, smell the roses, live in the moment and enjoy the view. All this energy trying to find the perfect solution is a trap. Of course there's always room for improvement, but don't become obsessed with it. Live in the moment.
Damn, 89. Impressive!
I love this video! So much good information with a charming, totally authentic presentation. I think I have included all of the items on your wish list in my rig and I realize now I am building for RV Life, not Van Life because I too am going for quality. Tune into some Eckhert Tolle during your R&R.
Or just cut to chase and listen to Jordan Peterson. No comparison.
Oh it's Eckhart btw😉
@@leewright7623 To each their own.
Thank you for the honesty and tips! You are doing great and seems like you are aware of your fears and do something about it. This decisions are not easy, you are learning as you do it. I started an RV life 2 years ago (no full time, but kind of part time) and over time I discovered many things I wish I made different.
Great video! Speaking from experience - never charge your devices in a cabinet like that. Charging generates heat, shorts happen, fires inside a cabinet often get out of control before you even notice something is happening, and (this is the one I learned the hard way) never charge devices unattended while you are out adventuring. Safe travels. :D
I was watching this as I'm thinking of giving up my Skoolie Short bus, and getting a van like yours, but really , I identify with what you said about the head room, the floor space and I think Id be claustrophobic. So you've helped me decide to keep my bus but I will still follow you as you have such good information!
Life's a dance we learn as we grow! You have done a vantastic job on this, a kitchen window I agree ! I noticed alot of van lifer are now deciding on upgrading to cuz of believing everyone else. Bob Wells gives great advice . If you are looking for a short AMAZING bus, Skooliana is for sale with all you just said and I would definitely get it if I knew I could drive one. In a heartbeat! Seriously gonna go test me and my heart say's do it it's got all you need and want Debbe. The pup's will love it. I danced for 67 year's and NOW it's time to do my bucket list. Happy trail's and much love from Texas 💜
It's nice seeing someone be genuinely honest about the "van life" thing. My opinion, don't give up just because the " v1.0" didn't work out. You're already living that lifestyle. Just figure out how to make it work for you.
Oh- one more thing - I did the school bus with wheelchair conversion. It was AMAZING for living, but as a car, was less than ideal. Underpowered, TERRIBLE gas mileage, and the safety features were.... nonexistent. I'd stick with the van chassis if it were me - that is my next rig for sure. (LWB transit). Since gas mileage is a thing you mentioned in the past, I thought I'd share my experience. :-)
What is your gas mileage? That's why I would have a bicycle. Thanks for your share.
@@Samthemancharles on a good day, I got between 10-12 MPG highway miles. Much less if going uphill or driving in a city.
I get 12-15 with E-Series my v10 or 5.4 in 2013-2014 E350s. Since they are the same MPG, I WANT the v10 power for pulling a CJ7 on a single axle alum trailer AND climbing mountain passes...additonally the 2014 E350 v10s have a 5 speed trans that has a VERY aggressive downshifting "trailering mode" that is excellent for descending mountains.
I've got a 5 window chevy bus with van chassis. It gets terrible mileage (10mpg), drives slow (60mph is kind of pushing it), but it's an ideal sized living space that still manages to fit into a standard parking space. The best security features you can add are a locking safe bolted into the metal frame for your valuables and extra locks on the doors to deter thieves. The windows will always be a vulnerability, so you have to be comfortable with the idea that if someone really wants to get in they can. Between me and my 100lb dog, I'm not worried about it.
I could never go for a smaller sized cargo van. The lack of windows or space to stand up straight would drive me crazy. The price is also a huge deciding factor in why I chose a bus. I bought mine in cash, whereas cargo vans are very expensive and I would have had to finance it. With the money I would have spent on financing I can afford to park at state campgrounds nonstop if I wanted to. I definitely think a bus is a better option if you want to move around less and have more inside space, and if you don't want the commitment of long term financing.
thank you for the honesty in your experience! I hear in your voice what I have seen in myself many times. I hope you find peace and safety in your environment as you continue to learn and develop.
1:34 on vinyl flooring. I actually have a really high quality sheet vinyl flooring in my room. I think any kind of sheet vinyl flooring would hold up very well.
I totally agree with. A lot of the solutions on TH-cam may not be the best.
Obviously there may be downsides to sheet vinyl flooring too (like health), but I think, overall, it would work great in an RV context.
Experience & hindsight are two wonderful things along with a good dose of Common Sense which you seem to have nailed Oh & being able to
learn from the first two & adapt the way you do things to suit. 10/10 for getting this far. Take care & have fun 😌
Life's Wisdom is acquired by f**king up a lot of sh*t! So awesome to hear you tying your consequences to the decisions made early in the process - being accountable results in having the knowledge to improve. Self Love is the constant balance of trusting yourself to make bold decisions AND forgiving yourself for those bold decisions when they go less right. Enjoy.
I loved this video! I totally agree with so much of my van build, very lucky I listened to my Auntie about placement of the bench and desk. Kicking myself about the safe. I have a simple fix for gas stove, use an alcohol stove. You can use hand santiser, a few squirts to light it, and you can buy 5 litre tanks (I'm in the UK) of and it's fairly cheap. and then you're not having to lift gas tanks up and down and out of the way.
I swear this was one of the most straightforward and super-useful, no-nonsense, video. A huuuge thank you, I am now sure that what was my gut feeling I need to listen to. I will be a first time solo traveller, at 55, yet, the maximum space I'll be able to afford it's going to be my choice (and all the other things you recommend!). xx
So down to Earth. I'm planning going van-life and your information is GOLDEN. Thank you so much!
Mariah, so thankful that you made this video for all of us who are still taking steps towards their ideal rigs.
We needed to make arrangements during our home termite tenting and I chose an RV.
I figured this would be the test for me to learn if I was cutout for Vanlife.
Ah! Boy did it test us!
I rented a 24’ RV from a known website, let’s just say it all looked good on paper , the customer service from the owner (which they own several RV rentals) the rig and pricing.
I had never driven a large box like it but it drove very well.
Got to the RV park with our dogs , fish bowl and kids. Set up the AC, water and started living, all the while noting a couple of things like Truck AC was not functioning at its best or that the fridge was taking a long time to cool.
Next day all heck broke lose in the middle of the night alarms went off and I had to start troubleshooting a rig that wasn’t mine at 3 am. While the rest of the RV park slept 🤣
While we went through it with flying colors, I added many mental notes for future reference: light colors for the walls, building the electrical with someone so I know what goes where, designing my own space and like you mentioned- USING THE BEST PRODUCTS! (QUALITY OVER QUANTITY)
you reaffirmed all these things in my head as I watched your video this morning.
Thank you for being honest and sharing your thoughts with us! You do rock ! Just the last comment 💗💗💗
Blessings and safety on the road for you and Finn!
BTW- I LOVE Vanlife !!!✅
Hey, I've just discovered your channel and can honestly say that I absolutely get where you're coming from.
My first van just about broke me (built entirely from TH-cam advice) but I absolutely love the van I have now and I cannot imagine ever parting with it.
If it's any help with your decision making I've got an Iveco Daily (extra long wheelbase & high top) and absolutely love it for too many reasons to list here.
The key components that make it perfect for me are as follows:
1. Happy Jaks bed (jacks up to the roof during the day giving seating and table area & jacks down at night, bed stays made up at all times). These work so great for me and give a huge amount of extra space.
2. Truma combi heater (air and water). I have LPG with underslung tank, diesel is also available. This is THE absolute game changer.
3. Underslung fresh and waste water. Insulated and also with low voltage internal heating (so it does not freeze).
4. Built in induction cook top and LPG oven.
5. Thetford combi shower room / bathroom kit.
This combination has been perfect for me for about 3 years now and I'm loving being on the road again.
Hope it's of some help to you, even if just for some ideas.
Really enjoying your channel,
Cameron.
I have liked the idea of a raiseable bed. To put sports equipment under on the way to races (dog sledding on wheels = dryland mushing).
But hadn't heard the name of the manufacturer before now.
It was a feature offered by ModVans.
This is exactly what everyone should do. Thank u for your honest information. This helps me so much!
Dear Mariah, Your Blogs/ Videos are a true example of Reality!!!
I love your Style.
Girl I hope You travel to Ontario Canada one day.
It's a awesome 4 season Province
I'm with you on needing separate spaces. I'm building an elevator bed and having a desk fold down from the bottom. that way I keep the bed, the living space, and office separate. And I'm doing the pop up table to bed thing so I have an extra bed and a dining table. I figure having a separate desk that's easily accessible would be way more productive for me.
Thanks for this video! I helps me a lot when I want to build my own Van; perhaps next year.
The 26 seconds rule is awesome and so true.
Making your stove within the counter blade is not hard to realize and will you make cook even more :)
So nice to see how you take good care of Finn. He's such happy dog. Take care and it's always fun to wait for your next video!
You and Finn are awesome. Cheers to your success in life
Updated:
I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living.
I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc.
People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living.
I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself.
Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this.
I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful.
I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors.
I shared this with another traveler as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others.
Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience.
Although, you may have knowledge of this already,
I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone.
*Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle.
You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage
Do your research for the best fit for you
Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables.
Consider theses items:
*Mini portable power charging station.
I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices.
*Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell reception,
Research to see what you prefer.
*Very Inportant:
Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location.
There are various types of these devices, and including devices that can be used when boating or camping situations.
*Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders.
Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone.
You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS devices will be a good fit for you.
*Mini portable vehicle battery charger-( portable vehicle battery jumper cables )
*Vehicle Jumper cables
Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly.
Exterior vehicle cameras
Interior vehicle cameras
*Flashlights or pluggin spotlights
*Portable spotlights, and lanterns
Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console
*A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies.
Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons.
Don’t forget to bring
Bear Spray
Pepper spray
Where is allowed
Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels.
You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions.
Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions.
Keep your vehicle gas filled
Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty.
Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on.
Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors.
Keep Enjoying Yourself,
Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature
Just..Please continue to
Be Positive, Safe, and Alert..
Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All.
God Bless You, and everyone
Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc.
Please Be Safe.....
Author Advocate for Humanity,
Safety Advocate
Jason Sandifer,
Michigan
10/03/2022,
10/02/2022
Or forget all that and live normal.
I thank you for your pro and cons. I've never heard of a 20 second rule. But with building you haft to think of all the challenges you face. And you haft to apply or incorporate them. If you flipped the inside around.yes see your kitchen. But see the clouds shadow move over the mountains. Out the big window. And I would of put a gas range in. But again it's a space issue. And one thing I done for a friend about his personal lock up stuff. Is I welded a safe to frame. And found him grey water and fresh water tanks on Amazon. The most important thing is you learn from mistakes! Is you can fix them or your next build you keep them in mind. Thanks for sharing!!!
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
I’ve sifted through over 100 hrs of van build videos and came to the same conclusions about the fan and floors. Definitely a correlation between mental health and living space, and is as different as each individual.
Also, remember that the size and type of your van is probably the most reliable and most economical, ‘bang for the buck’. You may want to reconsider making mods to an already well built rig, rather than starting from scratch, or worse, buying someone else’s problem.
If I woke up in your shoes, I’d take a really close look at the mods option before spending megabucks on something new.
JMHO, Good luck!
PS, I just subscribed because I’m interested in seeing which decision you make.
I feel that your next conversion will be amazing... You know the pitfalls to address through bitter experience. Love your 40 sec rule. Applies to house living too so if it takes more than 40 seconds to extricate your ironing board and set it up, you're far less likely to get the job started! Good luck with your ventures, Mariah...
I love Kara & Nate's safe and the pillow packing trick! I have been building out my tiny Ford
Transit Connect and can only get away with something so small because I'm only part-time. Your points are so valid and you have learned so much over the past year+!! Thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!!
Regarding the stove situation: exchange the propane coleman for a butane one. Literally twenty seconds or less to set up. The canister stays in, you just have to move a lever to engage it. Changed my camping game.
I appreciate your approach to life. You are a young and adventurous woman that has addressed these challenges with a cool head. Love the fact that your pup is so important to you.
Be well.
Stay safe.
Seek adventure.
great information! wow, can't believe it's been a year of watching your videos! I'm surprised that bathroom set up isn't mentioned...that would legit be my first concern.
Somehow I’ve gotten oddly used to not having one 😂😂, it doesn’t even cross my mind anymore.
@@sleep.eat.repeat6786 I had a senior moment and replied in your post by mistake. Sorry😖!
YES I got my ambulance in April, installed my floor in June. It’s already separating and the build out isn’t even done 😭
Love the video and the honesty, there are so many things that we learned building our van and are still learning while living in our van. I do think that you can have a fixed bed, shower and living area in a smaller van though. We spent ages designing our layout and managed it. Your van is great though and would love to see what you do in your next van!
Thanks for the honest and unique perspective on the details of small van builds and living! It's a very helpful reference for me while I am making choices and decisions.
Great video. Thanks!
I too can not live without the heated blanket. I do have a hack for saving electricity with it. I hooked up a garden timer between the blanket and the outlet. I set the timer to 30 minutes. When i go to bed, i tap the button to start the timer. The heated blanket puts me to sleep pretty quick and it turns off after 30 min. I usually sleep thru the night but if it is really cold and i wake up, i just reach over, slap the button for more heat.
Happy Thanksgiving and Have and Merry Christmas
*Newly Updated Safety Suggestions: for Campers, Explorers, Travelers*
I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living.
Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels, displaying van living.
I just wanted to remind everyone to Aware Be of your surroundings and Alert, I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions
I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc...
People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living.
I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself.
Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this.
I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful.
I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors.
I shared this with several other travelers, as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others.
Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience.
Although, you may have knowledge of this already,
I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone.
*Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle.
You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage
Do your research for the best fit for you
Consider Carrying Several Extra portable cellphone phone chargers, and cables.
Consider theses items:
*Mini portable power charging station.
I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices.
*Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception.
Consider also the purchase of a WiFi signal booster to also boost your WiFi signal.
Research to see what you prefer.
*Very Inportant:
Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location.
There are various types of these devices, and including devices that can be used when boating, or camping situations.
*Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders.
Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone.
There are some satellite SOS texting messaging, locator devices that will send messages with your phone even if there isn’t any cellular signal, or WiFi. With this device your can still text, and communicate with others in a emergency satellite transmission.
Check online, for various emergency SOS products, some are small to fit in the palm of your hand.
You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS devices will be a good fit for you.
*Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger
*vehicle battery jumper cables
*Vehicle Jumper cables
*PLEASE BE AWARE* that in the *WINTER*
*vehicle *Batteries fail* many times in very cold weather conditions.
Vehicle batteries drain more often in the winter months.
Please Keep a vehicle battery portable jumper pack, this is a device that can jumper or boost your vehicles battery yourself without another vehicle.
If you have a older battery in your vehicle, Please have it tested or replace it, and consider the purchase a new vehicle battery with higher Cold Cranking Amps rating.
Be Aware that Sometimes even a battery that is a few years old can fail in the Winter months, and extremely cold temperatures.
Some alternatives to Winter Camping, Travelers, Explorers, etc, if you can find a Warmer Climate Location to stay during Extreme Winter months, or stay with family for a few weeks.
Another alternative is renting somewhere, Hotel, Apartment, although it can probably get expensive.
What ever you decide, or choose to do or as a possible alternative,
Please Be Careful, Alert, Aware, Safe, and Informed...
*Keep a Fire extinguisher handy
*Smoke detectors, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful
Consider installing;
*Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly.
*Exterior vehicle mounted camera for the front, rear, and both sides of your vehicle.
Some can be activated by motion, Including spotlights.
*Interior vehicle cameras
*Flashlights or pluggin spotlights
*Portable spotlights, and lanterns
Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console
*Keep a Sound horn, for hiking this can service, as a deterrent, and a emergency signal alert for others.
*A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies, you can keep with you when hiking.
Use your own discretion regarding the use carrying of any weapons.
Don’t forget to bring
Bear Spray
Pepper spray
Where is allowed
Purchase a couple canisters just in case and keep it with you
If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc.
However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings.
Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks.
Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc.
Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions.
*VERY IMPORTANT*
I would suggest *NOT* to travel to locations without internet, cellular service in the Winter, the reason is that weather conditions can change very quickly, and you absolutely DO NOT want have a vehicle break down, or malfunction, or emergency, and not have the availability to communicate, and contact your family, and or, emergency road assistance, or emergency services.
*Safety is Paramount*
*Your Life is Important*
*You want to Live to Travel another Day*
*So Be Safe*
*Stay Alert*
*Keep your vehicle gas filled*
Don’t ride on fumes, or on Empty.
Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty.
Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on.
Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, antifreeze coolant,
Please carry extra (oil)(washer fluid), (brake fluid), (antifreeze).
You will need extra Winshield Washer fluid because of the ever changing Weather conditions, dustly roads, especially in slushy wet roads.
Furthermore, you will need extra Windshield Washer Fluid, Because you will Be driving more often in dusty, dirty, windy, and varying weather conditions.
Your windshield will gather dust and debris from long term driving.
Also, Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate.
Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very.
Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc
Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump. Electric, Portable tire pump.
Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it.
It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling.
Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors.
Keep Enjoying Yourself,
Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature
Just..Please continue to
Be Positive, Safe, and Alert..
Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All.
God Bless You, and everyone
Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc.
Please Be Safe.....
God Be With You.....
Author Advocate for Humanity,
Jason Sandifer,
Michigan,
11/15/2022, 11/18/2022
11/20/2022
I'm getting ready to embark on van life with my 17 year old maltese. What you expressed is literally my greatest fear in the world. Or someone breaks in and he gets hurt or let out. Absolutely terrified.
A dog at the age of 17 is at the end of its life…
@@ckrazy813 a dog is at the end of their life when they are no longer well. At 17, mine was still doing well.
I'm frustrated for you (as a viewer!) - you've generously given us the window view to gorgeous lanscapes, whilst you're left staring at the sink! 😆 have you seen Max's van build series (Max & Occy)? Total van-spiration, he explains his design thought process really well 👌
That dog is so sweet and he's looking at you like I didn't realize we had so many problems!
I totally agree about a heated blanket. Everything is more bearable when you're warm!
Remember your 20 second rule when it comes to converting your bed to an office everyday... I wish so bad my bed was a permanent bed.
I’ve had both layout vans and I definitely prefer a rear lounge which converts into a bed
Wouldn't mind having to set up the bed each night, but having a permanent bed makes storing my expensive mt bike inside possible
@@sylviahamilton3658 That's what I keep thinking about. Storage for the paddle board, the bike...
The 20-second rule. YES!! That totally applies to me. Ive been planning out my van build or a couple of years and have taken that into account. Everything I tackle is adapted so it’s the quickest and easiest for me because I know otherwise I’ll be miserable. I also noticed that trend on the Fantastic vs MaxxAir fans and did my own research and went with the Maxx Air. You gotta do your own research on EVERYTHING.
If you want a twenty second rule then you live in a house. My last cruiser was a 2000 Buick century, I lived in it for a year and a half. Had my stove and cloths in my trunk and slept in the drivers seat every night. It was the best on gas then any other vehicle I've lived in, including living out of a backpack and a tent.
@@djskum My van is small, next time I'll go smaller, I don't need to stand often enough in my van to warrant a 6 foot roof and extra wind drag plus barrier height restrictions. In winter a lower roof of 4 foot will need less heating (fuel) as heat rises wastefully to the ceiling.
In the summer or Good weather, I'm outside. The cab can also act like a Good 'office' or mini conservatory.
It's shocking how much of my van I block off in colder weather, the living area can go from 5'4" wide by 12'6" long and 6'1" High to 5'4" wide by 6'6" long and 4' High ceiling because of partitioning and I like this mode and use it the most (cosy) although! three weeks at a time is my longest trips.
I've had my current van for 5 years, long enough to know what I prefer.
I think you're right djskum about the twenty second rule applying more to a house. Mariah mentioned she would be happy changing from bedroom setup to office to dinning yet removing a stove from a drawer and inserting a cannister of gas is a hassle, I don't understand this at all.
This is a legit video. Everything you listed is why I went with a small RV travel trailer. Been it for 4 years and I absolutely love it...all I had to do was paint it and decorate to customize. Also, the truck and truck camper is the real move. Reliable. Mechanics everywhere. If one breaks your house isn't connected to your car. Huge water tanks. And these days, you can buy a NICE truck and camper for the price of a sprinter these days. I never understood why people do vans over RVs. RVs are designed for this and you can customize them but keep the plumbing, hot water heater, house heater, etc
Absolutely true…. We built a little trailer only 5 x 11… 5 in height we Boondock everywhere… Sometimes will go for a month or six weeks… we have 400 watt Solar and a solar shower… but our biggest improvements were a countertop propane stove that we don’t have to connect and disconnect… 25 gallon water tank…lol But the best thing we ever did was installed an awning and the awning room…it’s 10x8 This made the world a difference it’s like having a big living room.. We even have a propane fireplace that we set up in the centre of it and it keeps the bugs out….
I appreciate your transparency re: the relationship between one's physical space and emotional well being. These long-term realities are not addressed in most of the "eager-beaver" van life videos. Thanks for this video!
You are awesome and courageous!!! I FULLY AGREE with everyone of these things you listed! I have had all those same concerns with the different ways I have travelled. My fiancé and I have PURPOSEFULLY declined the whole van idea even though it has been a dream of ours since we met and he actually lived in a van when I met him. We watched tons of videos and I thought the same thing, no one ever talks about the time it takes to do every little thing, nor have I heard very often about space, windows and mental health- which I agree with everything you said! If mental/emotional health declines then what's the point? Your 20 second rule is great and true! And the 5 gallon grey water complaint is totally real! Who wants to constantly change that out?... Anyway, I think you're brilliant and thanks for doing an honest view from a female perspective! I'm almost 60 and have camped and "roughed it" in many ways, just not long-term in a van. We settled on an RV and are very glad, mainly for space and water/holding tanks and toilet/shower, although there is always something pro or con about every choice. We're trying this for now and will switch it up when ready.