I added a porch and living room to my no build minivan camper for the ultimate storage and comfort.
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 ก.ย. 2024
- You could have even more storage if you used a higher shelf in the back or the higher shelf in the living room but I didn't want anything at eye level so it all looks more open. Some people have shelving all the way to the ceiling but I just chose not to do that.
I wanted to use the full well in the back with the 3rd row seats up. That also means everything is stored behind the seat so nothing can fly forward if I have to stop suddenly.
A lot of no build minivans leave just the 40% section of the 3rd row up for a chair and have 60% of the 3rd row stowed in the floor and that's where they put the bed. Problem with that in my van is that I didn't want to have to walk around the van to get in the back. It's a matter of privacy, convenience and you know - rain. Also with the full 3rd row of seats up, I have the entire well across the back for storage.
Link to original setup, my first video • 🦋 VAN TOUR: Fulltime S...
Link to sideways bed no build, my second build • VAN TOUR: Ocean Theme ...
PRODUCTS
Awning amzn.to/46NJJVB
Blacklight Tapestry amzn.to/3pQogKZ
Magnets (use with the hooks for awning or without for bug screen) amzn.to/44Od8NI
Bicycle light amzn.to/44sJKfV
Naugtical Lamp amzn.to/3NX6FJe
bug light (better price) amzn.to/3JVN7Uj
Retractable Portable Toilet amzn.to/44t6A7b
Bed Pan Liners amzn.to/44MfLPP
BLUETTI EB70 Portable Power Station with 200W Solar Panel amzn.to/3PZkXMm
OUPES 1200W Solar Generator, 2 X100W Solar Panels Included amzn.to/3JZUZnS
Small Storage drawers amzn.to/3K2j5hT
Metal Shelves amzn.to/3Oec5kz
Plastic Shelves for bed base amzn.to/46OCo8d
Reciprocating saw amzn.to/3rqbDGN
Carving Knife for foam (better price) amzn.to/3OfIVRV
PILLOW COVERS:
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Product links are now in the video description. Let me know if I left one out. Thanks!
Oh, I see your link. I spoke too soon. I was excited, 🙂
how about the big bins under your bed???
@Sheila_M61 that would be awful! Actually sitting on it locks it down. It was only problem once when I was setting it up. 🙂
@imelfamily those bins were from a dollar store. Not sure which one. 🙃
@@Roblox_Fanatix 💙🦋💙
that van looks great! minor suggestion for all folks traveling on their own, get a 2nd chair to set up at the campsite and a tent if you can afford it. When people see 2 chairs they think it means 2 people (even if you are only one!) an extra tent allows you to save the site (if you have to drive away for a period of time) and at night people won't know if someone is in the tent or in the van or both.... Since you said you are going to get another chair (for more comfort) perhaps keep the first one for staging the site.
Good advice 👍
I'll add... pick up a pair of used mens shoes/boots from the thrift store to set outside the door. Change up the positioning. This is a tip i yeach young women that live alone ❤
Yes heard this on a crime show
2nd chair is also a footrest.
It's more stuff to store.
From my experience, if they're watching you, they know. ✌️❤️
~ 🦋
Next time you use one of those metal shelves just remember that you can flip those shelves and you will have a lip around the edge which helps with things not sliding around. Love your van.
Yes, I wanted to do that but the connection point is cone shaped and I could only see one way to do it. 🤔
Hi Jan, my name is Brenda and I am planning to meet up with you in Florida later this year. I have not camped in 50 years and have never camped alone but I’m getting prepared and watching all of your post and videos on TH-cam. Can’t wait to meet up with you and meet you in person. You are absolutely delightful. Thank you.
Thank you so much, Brenda. Are you a member of the Butterfly Tribe? We have a Facebook group for women who are interested in traveling and camping. It's for women only and I hope you can join us. A safe place to exchange information about nomad adventures, caravans and meetups.
Butterfly Tribe Women Who Camp 💙 🦋 💙
facebook.com/groups/794347871824247/?ref=share
For added security, you can use a screened tent flushed up to the side of the van. That way you can leave the door open on one side without animals, or people walking up to you so quickly. You can close up the area underneath the van on that side as well. If you put a tarp on the ground, you can walk around barefoot or with slippers on..even on rainy days. It will also allow you to sit out at night. Don't trust the cover for bugs to keep you safe. Anything or anyone can enter your van at night.
Right. I try to stay in safe places. 💙🦋💙
@@ButterflyTracks All places are safe until they're not. Always be prepared for surprises.
what a great idea!
I think the inside chair really gives it the "at home" feel.
Yes, it feels cozy. 😎👍
⚘ Oh, yeah! You answered so many questions for me with this video - gobs of ideas, concerns and fixes. 😊 THANKS SO MUCH.
Glad it was helpful! 😊
It is very cool to see how you have adjusted and refined your no build build as you go along. It is both beautiful and utilitarian. Thanks for the many great ideas.
Thanks! Glad it was helpful. 😊
I just love your colors, so relaxing. Using pillows for clothes storage is a great idea.
Safe travels Jan, have fun.😊
Thank you! 😊
I like your set-up. Looks very comfortable and pretty. Another great idea is the bed pan liners! And I like your callapsible bucket. And also that little light attached to your handle. Thanks Jan for your update. See you on your next visit with us.
It is very nice 🙂
Thanks so much! 💙🦋💙
Also you could probably add another basket to the top of the metal cart, if you turn that basket the other way. That zip tie idea to secure it is a great idea!
Thanks. 🙂👍
Wow that set up and decor looks so inviting and cosy. The outside space is great but I can just imagine how calming it would feel to hear the rain sat in that chair 🥰 Well done, love from the UK 🇬🇧 ❤😘
Thanks so much! 😊 Love from across the pond. 💙🦋💙
I love seeing the doors thrown wide open in the middle of the beautiful forest but all I can think about is skeeters buzzing in my ears all night! 😖
I have bug screens and a bug zapper that is my favorite gadget. 🩵🦋🩵
Love the bicycle light idea very good idea 💡 😀
Thank you! 😊
My van is set up “L” shape. Dodge caravan. It’s a no build build, with he exception of a box kitchen i built in the back of my van. Made of wood. Currently i am in Idaho visiting with my son. Due to the High Heat, i moved into his spare bedroom. All i had to Do was move my metal cot out of my van, plus cushions, sheets etc. place it in the spare room. I am not a full timer, i like you am a traveler to see and do. Your van is very pretty. God bless
Thanks, Gabrielle. I hope to see you down the road. 💙🦋💙
One of the coziest van homes I've seen. I love that little flickering lamp. Nice setup!
Thank you! 💙🦋💙
Cute setup. It may be good to put a tennis ball over the post on your shelves though. I know I’d be hitting it all the time moving around on the bed😊. And you could even Velcro your watch to it or glasses case…the collapsible potty is great to adjust the height for a step stool to the roof rack too.
Thanks for the tip. 💙🦋💙
This is the most efficient use of space I have ever seen. My favorite is that it is so functional and you can simultaneously use the van as a main vehicle, complete with a passenger if needed.
💙🦋💙
I'll add to that... couple glasses dishes etc on the table.
Great ideas! I'm going to copy your no-build van!
Love to see what you do with it someday. Van tour? 🙂
I love this setup Jan! It's still cute and efficient! It's really nice to have a lounge area in back on rainy days! The awning thing is wonderful. It's great to be able to reach back to the fridge too without getting out of van. I believe you have this perfected. Have a wonderful time in new england. 🌸
Thank you, Cheryl. I need to redo your van tour someday. 🙂👍
I've been in my 2020 Pacifica full time for 2 years. I've 'rebuilt' mine 3 times so far, I will do another rebuild in the spring, bigger better ideas. I love a no build build for that reason. We can change things so easily. I've been thinking about one of those shade covers you have. It looks really nice on your rig. A huge thank you for sharing those absorbing pads for your toilet. I've never seen those before. I've been putting those overnight panty pads inside my toilet to absorb. I have that same toilet, it's amazing. Thanks for sharing your rig & all your great ideas. Safe travels.
Thank you so much, Jacqueline. 💙🦋💙
@@ButterflyTracks Curious,...your awning is curved, when it rained, did it leak back into van? How does that work?
I like your set up ! Simple.
Lots of cool ideas here, thanks for the tour. Looks cozy! 😊
Thanks for watching! 💙🦋💙
I have a similar seat that folds like your toilet, down to about 1.5 inches round. I love that thing!
😊👍
It looks get Jan. It is cute and practical. Thanks for the video.
You are so welcome! 💙🦋💙
This is the most practical living space I’ve seen, I think. I hope you’re well and can enjoy it every day.
Thank you so much. 💙🦋💙
Hello my native name is Butterfly and I love your set up I also have a mini van camper no build I love camping and I am also a native woman's traditional dancer and I attend Pow Wows My question is where did you purchase your covering for you back hatch the glow in the dark Butterfly one and your front side sliding door canopy if you don't mind asking all information would be appreciated as I have The End of Trail of Tears commemorative walk and pow wow 3rd weekend in September in Waterloo, Alabama would love to be able to incorporate those ideas into my no build mini camping van as well
Thank you had have a blessed beautiful day
Butterfly 🦋
Thank you! Product links are now in the video description.
th-cam.com/video/wI_w5qfXqio/w-d-xo.html
Love the cloth you used for a screen and privacy in the back. I also love butterflies and blue. It's all so lovely. You did a wonderful design.
Thank you so much! 💙🦋💙
It's still beautiful in it's 3 form. You live you learn. Haven't been able to watch all your journey to New England, busy summer. Stay cool and have a wonderful summer 😊❤
Thanks so much 😊
I love the Bed Pan liners. When I left for my long summer trip I knew I could not carry a large bag of pellets. So I experimented with many things and I now use a regular cheap baby diaper cut in half, with a very few pellets. This had worked well. Something about cutting the diaper in half activates the gel inside. Great video today. Thank you. I also love how you use part of the seat for a bed base. This helps with the uneven floor issue.
Yes. No wasted space with full well in the back with the chair up. 👍
I just love how you made it so cute not a bunch of functional things sitting around and just adorable. That's the way I'd have to do it too that toilet is the best one
Thanks so much! 😊
I love that toilet solution. I like simple and easy, and that is both, and functional. Thank you!
Glad it was helpful! 💙🦋💙
I have one of those toilets… brilliant idea on the canister!!
Thanks. Seems safer. 🙂👍
I use wee pads for a lg dog as a potty liner/absorbent. But bed pan liners will be my next go to when my supply runs out.
🙂👍
I love all the colorful, aquatically themed decorations; they make your build bright, vibrant and happy. Thanks, wishing you well and safe travels. ❤️🙏
Thank you so much! 😊
About the drawers that face different directions…where the sides are shown would make a handy spot for a cork board or magnet strip…if you would find that handy. Even sticky-tape Velcro might help make it multi purposeful. 💜
Thanks for sharing.
I did van life before it was called van life.
I never felt homeless. Someday I’ll do it again.
Thanks, Linda! I need to use every little space. 👍 BTW, We have a Facebook group for women who are interested in traveling and camping. It's for women only and I hope you can join us. A safe place to exchange information about nomad adventures, caravans and meetups.
Butterfly Tribe Women Who Camp 💙 🦋 💙
facebook.com/groups/794347871824247/?ref=share
Some great additions/modifications! We too went with a NO BUILD approach and the beauty of that is that it can be changed easily as you want or need - and fine tune the set up super easily! Keep making memories & adventure on! ~Karen & Shannon WOY
Thanks, WOY! 💙🦋💙
Love the new set-up. All great ideas! I especially love the bicycle lamp. It's my next purchase. Thanks!!!
You are so welcome! 💙🦋💙
This is a fabulous, simple set up that took you a year and a half to figure out for all of us! A home on the road!! Thank you for all the product links for everything!!🧚♀️💜 Happy Trails girl!!💙
Glad it was helpful! 💙🦋💙
Looks like you enjoy life!
I really like all the ocean theme. Including the water carpet for the floor 😊
You should be able buy those gel crystals in a small jar that are in those pad things from garden stores or plant nurseries.
I'm in Australia & they're readily available in big hardware stores that have gardening supplies.
They're usually called water saving gel crystals & it's unbelievable how little you need to soak up liquids.
Thank you. Never thought of that! 👍
The bed pan liners are new to me, and a great idea!
Yes, they really work and save space. 🙂
Great Tour! Thanks!
I think you have the best toilet system I've seen.
I agree, it's nice having the bed on the passenger side. Thats what I did. But, I found a beautiful 30×72 bedframe that fits perfectly on the drivers side. No saw required! Lol . 24" is just too small for my comfort. I just rearranged things again also and brought up the 3rd row seat. What a difference having a chair in the back! I purposely bought a 14" frame for storage. With my 6" mattress, there's no way I can sit up straight.
It's a work in process.
Thanks for sharing your home with us.
~ 🦋
Thank you! I'm on my 4th arrangements now. I can sit up on the bed! Van tour coming soon! 🦋
@@ButterflyTracks I see that! Lucky you!
My world would have more options if I were only smaller. But, making it work.
I like your videos.
Thanks!
~ 🦋
Nice job on the remodel! Love the metal wire racks. Using them for my bed platform and storage.
She didn’t answer
Thank you. Those racks are really nice. 🙂
Love the tour. Great idea about liners for toilet
Thanks! 🦋
Very nice! You could get those garage door screens and cut it and use it for the sides of the van to keep bugs out and still enjoy fresh air while inside. Also Dollar Tree string battery lights work well in ours w/the Dollar Tree batteries last us an entire summer in them. Love all your storage ideas! Stay safe! ⚘
Thank you. 💙🦋💙
Nice setup! I love seeing how everyone does their vans to their needs! I have my bed in same area, just on drivers side because I have a Shepherd attached to a bracket in the floor and don't want to ger her out on the traffic side.
That is awesome! 💙🦋💙
Love this...perfection down to the beautiful blues❣
Thank you, Norma! 💙🦋💙
Such a good idea to load pillow cases with clothes. I definitely am taking notes.
Glad it was helpful! 💙🦋💙
Neat idea for the bed. Very inexpensive way of making things work to live in a vehicle. ❤
It really is! 💙🦋💙
Love it !!! I did a similar bed setup as my first build… used a 2x4 foot board the back seat on top of a tote.. and several quilts to fill in the gap.. yours looks much better then mine… with urban camping I really liked my bed on the passenger side… I think I may have to go back to it!
Sounds great! 💙🦋💙
What a gorgeous set up. Thank you for sharing your home with us.
Thanks for watching! 💙🦋💙
I have a 2020 and love the way you have put it together with no damage to the van. Bed pan liners wow I wish I would have had them went I was taking care of my mother in law. That would have saved me a lot of work and mess to clean. Enjoy watching all your videos.
Thank you, Kathy. 💙🦋💙
Great build! I love how you have protected your passenger seat and the side of your van from the wood on your bed! Also, love the toilet idea. GENIUS! I hope one day you can visit North Carolina. Happy camping! Be safe! ❤
Thanks so much! 🦋
Great tip on the bed liners... I have been wondering about those. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Heather. 💙🦋💙
Your space is so comfortable and practical. Very inspiring video!
Thank you so much! 💙🦋💙
This is so useful! Thank you Jan. I have a no build camper as during the week it’s the family car. I’ve been using a camp bed but your shelf idea is brilliant and I can saw the legs down to balance out the different levels. And it’s very lightweight. Love your new awning too! Such a great layout all round. Happy travels x
Thanks, Ruth. 💙🦋💙
No builds are awesome! Thank you for sharing the details of how you made your bed & details on storage. I hope to meet you at a meet up someday! Happy travels! 🎉😊
I hope so too! 💙🦋💙
I’ve been tempted to buy one of those toilets. Multi use.
Yes! 😊👍
Nice build! I wish you had a list of all your accessories ❤
I ran out of time and wifi. 🙃 Tomorrow, I promise. 💙🦋💙
HOPE SO I ASKED ABOUT WHERE SHE BOUGHT MANY ITEMS TOO.
LOVE KATHLEEN
When you have time, that would be great to know. Thanks so much for the tour 🌈💜
So glad you had a good time! I like the way you made the bed fit. Your van is beautiful. It reflects your personality.
Thank you so much, April. 💙🦋💙
Libraries are good places to go when you are stuck in the rain that is what I Do when I'm camping.
Sometimes we do that. It's a great place spend time, especially good for smokin' hot internet speeds. 😊
Very nice no-build! Thank you kindly for sharing and including links to all the products!😊
You are so welcome! 💙🦋💙
Really like the material that you've used for back cover, pillows,etc.....like the way things are set up too,even the lantern🙂
Thanks so much! 😊
You always amaze me with your practicality. I just odered a bottle of gel power for my johnny bucket...i hadnt seen the pads. Like you my Pacifica is a 2022 but not the hybrid duh wish I had watched more TH-cam videos before buying but as much as I'd love to remove the console and put in a few anchor screws, I'm not drilling into my van!😂 Thanks for some new ideas i think I'd like a chair for those rainy days...im toyong with the idea of the ecoflow wave mark 2 AC which will be nice when i have power but will only give me about 2 1/2 if that on my bluette 70 and I use my jackery 1000 for refrig and other stuff... Can you go through the car wash with your roof box? As always happy and safe travels..and thanks for the birthday wish
Where do I find those gel pads?
@@artemisacereceres5528amazon has them. Search 'absorbent pads for bedside'
Thanks! I have to find a car wash with 7'6" limit. Most are 7'2".
You have a lot of items in your van. I'm impressed at how tidy and neat everything is. That takes talent, good job. 🧡🍁🍂
Thank you so much! 🦋
I've always liked how everything is eye level, creates an impression of a larger space than it is. I've wondered the same about having the bed behind the driver's seat. I like your new bed base! I had these shelving units for storage and was disappointed I couldn't use them. It looks like your bins fit in nicely and are more easily pulled in/out! Looks great! You have such a great and useful collection of lighting, too. I never thought to use my bike light, brilliant. I'm using recycled paper pellets and they work fabulously and even though I get a very large bag for a great price, it adds up and the bags are heavy. I love the idea of these pads and recycled container! My collapsible toilet has openings where folded, too. I triple bag with grocery, but I don't shop that often! I can use it as a trashcan during the day and set up for potty at night. I just purchased a privacy tent, it should arrive today. I'm moving part time into my SUV, (44 more days until end of camp host), the Roadloft kitchen is perfectly storing anything I would need to prepare anything from water to food. The platform I will use for sleeping when needed. I am still wanting to set up my tent and both seem to be perfect for me, but I'm preparing for letting my tents go, at some point... probably when it is time for a new vehicle, which will be awhile. My "Theodosia" (popular, tradition gypsy name, meaning 'God-given') is 11 with 112,000 miles. Camp hosting for 4 months has given me a chance to determine what I will need and purge more, but many thanks for helping me save!
Yes, you have some good experience and it sounds like you're ready! 💙🦋💙
Beautiful I love the colors and theme because it’s fun and so pleasant
Thanks, Kathy.
❤That You and LuLu are where You are together. I believe it is a good and safe place to be. Such Great Friends!😊😊😊
It's wonderful. 😊
I spend my summers back home in NH… welcome
Thank you. 💙🦋💙
This is the first time I learn about using bed pan liners and turns to gel. That is such a brilliant no leak easy to discard solution.
Yes! Light weight, doesn't take up much room. It's the best I've found yet. 💙🦋💙
I really Love your videos. May i suggest you consider some sort of small security cameras that you can view the outside of your vehicle from the inside
I have cameras all the way around. 😎👍
@@ButterflyTracks I hope you have a video that tells about your cameras. Or if not, that you'd be willing to make one some time. I go check your page now and see if you already have one.
thanks for the bed pan liner info
You bet! 🦋
I love your van💕💕💕it’s perfect for outdoor camping and indoor living 💟💟
Thank you so much. 💙🦋💙
The simplicity of your build is highly encouraging for one who dreams! 😊 ( and overpacks 😬) Thank you for sharing.
We have a Facebook group for women only that is very supportive and full of information. We have women only meetups and caravans. I hope you can join us. 💙🦋💙
Butterfly Tribe Women who Camp:
facebook.com/groups/794347871824247/?ref=share
@@ButterflyTracks Thank you , I do follow Butterfly Tracks woman who camp and Chasing Waterfalls. I would love to join in a meetup this fall if all things work out. Thank you so much. You are a beautiful inspiration to say the least 😊
This has got to be in the top 5 of minivan builds that I’ve seen. I love how organized it looks. It also seems so comfy! I subbed and can’t wait to see your travels!
Thank you so much! Welcome to the Butterfly Tribe 💙 🦋 💙
Well done!! 👍 you’re an inspiration
Thank you so much! 🙂
One of the best and most practical video ever! Thank you for all the tips and recommended products to make vanlife enjoyable!
Glad it was helpful! 😊
Lookin’ good!
Thanks, Ramona. 💙🦋💙
I love😊 it Jan! It gives me so many ideas❤❤❤
Awesome! Thank you! 🦋
What a great setup! Also your voice sounds so nice and comforting. 😊
Thank you so much 🙂
What ingenuity! Great no build.
Thanks! 💙🦋🦋
Wow this is beautiful, cozy and really well designed 💖
Thank you! 😊
Love your new set up 💛👌👏
Thanks 😁
Looks good and classy as well!
💙🦋💙
I love your back cover! I’m still waiting on the teardrop trailer 🥲 very nice setup you have!
Thanks! You've been waiting a long time for that teardrop. I bet you're really going to celebrate. 🍾
You have some GREAT ideas! The bike light and the bedpan liners are new to me. Never seen anyone else use those before. I’m going to get either a minivan or a Promaster City-not sure which yet, so I am collecting tips and tricks. THANKS!
Good luck in your search for your van. 😊👍
Toyota Sienna
Enjoyed your video 😊❤ Very organized, love your theme 😊❤ Have a great day and be safe ❤️🙂
Thanks so much! 😊
Jan I love everything you've changed or still have as you want. The awning is so perfect So happy for you. I have a c class MH. But sometime I will travel in my suv. Thank you for all you do to give others that need help and see America that many may see because of you .
Oh thank you, Janice! 💙🦋💙
Really nice decorations and a great way to have privacy
Thank you. 💙🦋💙
Your bed design is ingenious!!
Thanks 😊
🦋Very nice changes. Functional and beautiful. Stay safe and TFS🧡
Thank you! 🤗
Your new arrangement looks great Jan. Thanks so much for sharing. 🎉
Thanks so much! 😊
Love the way you've set out your vehicle, looks so beautiful and homely, very comfy 💜 Thankyou fot sharing ,🥰💜
Di NSW Australia 🙋♀️😊
Thank you! 🤗
Wow that's great. Looks great
Thank you very much! 😊
I live in a van too,in Florida.
Beautiful build! SUGGESTION: Please purchase a screened-in tent to flush up against your van, just as you have the open one. That will get you a more secure living space. They are fairly inexpensive at Walmart and Amazon. You'll be able to place your toilet outside and the same items you have now, except you'll be able to ward off any animals that might be able to have quick access to you now. you'll be able to relax with that door open. Just make sure you have something to cover the bottom side of your van so nothing can crawl underneath. The covering in the back is cute, but anything bigger than a mosquito can come in on you and you can't trust all other campers either. Some of them might be bothersome. Please don't leave the back door open.
I don't leave the doors open at night. 🙂👍
lovely setup..great job..weed california usa
Thanks 👍
Very pretty!
Thank you! 😊
Love the new set up love the signs!!!
Thanks, Linda. 🙂
Wonderful video. I really enjoyed seeing how you put everything together.
Thank you so much! 🦋