Buy 2 small buckets: Drill lots of small holes in the bottom of the top bucket & the top bucket lid. Place it inside the bottom bucket. Now fill it with Epsom Salts to the top & put the lid on. As the bottom bucket fills with water, empty it & refill the top pail with Epsom Salts, as needed = ZERO Humidity, ZERO Mold, ZERO Fogged Windows, = Happy Camper.
That is amazing! I had a very dear friend who had a tiny house and every time she went to her summer vacation spot she was always having to buy one of those buckets with the whatever it was in it not knowing that it was just simply opened salt she could have saved yourself quite a bit of money well we live and learn thanks for the economic tip tip tip tip guru😂🎉
Buy tubes of Cilicone caulk and thin it out with 90% rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits in a bowl into to a syrupy concistancy and paint brush it onto your ceiling and walls to water proof the wood from absorbing condensation. Brush it onto the back of your phone and never drop it again. Anything that slides around, just brush some on the bottom of the item. Also you can coat counters and handles for better grip. You can water proof boots and hats and brush it on cloth to make tarps.
Here’s a bonus hack combining two of your hacks!!! I have 5 of the pet cooling mats… 🤪 . 3 small 2 large. The small ones I rotate in my fridge for extra cooling! And so when my fridge has room, I fill the space with the cooling mats! Makes me feel like I’m storing that wasted energy! Like a cold battery bank! 😂 Works AMAZING! Take a chilled small one and place on top of large and really radiate the cooling 🥶 ahhhhhh so refreshing
Great video. An add-on for your fridge/ice hack. Bags of ice tend to leak and fill the cooler with water & all the contents end up floating or filled with water themselves. I use screwtop drink shaker bottles and put the ice in there. They don't leak, and as it defrosts, you can drink a cool refreshing water. Without these, it is better to transfer the ice into quality ziplock bags, because they leak less
I got pretty stretch lace fabric and magnet that on my van door openings! It’s super pretty and easy to move magnet to open/close. Breeze comes thru great and keeps bugs out too
I know a lady truck driver who has small dogs and she sewed together some panty hose together to pull over her doors so the windows can be down for the dogs but also keep bugs away. Super cool idea!
Warning ⚠️⚡ I have a tip to replace those ugly bungee cords on your beautiful dresser drawers.😁 Drill a small hole on left or right side of the cabinet for each drawer. Home Depot sells metal dowel pins with little bumps on them and they'll snap into the hole, keeping each drawer from sliding out. Go cheaper and just use wooden dowels. Be sure the hole is only large enough for the dowel pins to be snug. Drill on a slight angle slanted downward so the pins don't vibrate out while driving.😃😎🤗
I've enjoyed this video so much. I am not a vanlifer but wish I could have been. I live with my daughter and have basicly only my room. Never the less I find many of the tips very useful. Like the dishcloth for drying when doing a spongebath. I love your joyfulness. May God bless you and keep you safe. Everyday.
I cut out fiberglass fly screens to the shape of my van windows an inch wider than the window all around and I used a rubberized adhesive and glued it all around and no mosquitoes or flies get inside. Living in Florida heat for 3 years and they haven't disolved. Use fiberglass door screen found in rolls at Lowes or Home Depot. Cut to shape and caulk into place.😎😎😎
I tip trick. To make it last longer, wrap it in newspaper. Also packing the food in lunch totes then sticking them in a fridge helps too. lose the shelves. The food comes out more easily, it's padded from breakage. Good plastic egg holders that hold 6 are a must also.😊
Great video Brenna. I use sarong as a towel substitute, Dries quickly and takes up so much less space, plus bigger than a tea towel. Love your clothes dryer and the tip about two batteries.
Oh my gosh, that giggle/laugh is absolutely beautiful. Made my heart happy to just hear it. Sorry to get off track of your hard work on this video. Well, sometimes a good side track is appropriate. Thank you for the tips and oh my gosh...keep laughing, it's so wonderful!
I’ve been holding off getting the Ecoflow River Pro + 220W Solar I’ve had my eye on, when you said Ecoflow sponsored the vid, I was hoping you would have a code & you did 🎉 and I was able to claim it!! 🎉 I can’t thank you enough! 😘🥰 the code saved me almost $100 & I’m also getting a Ecoflow camping light as a free gift 💝 There will be a big hug for you when we eventually cross paths 🤗 Love, love, love divine timing! Thank you again ❤
The clothes line tip is exactly what I needed!!!!! My van conversion is finally coming to an end after 4 long months of working on it. I can't wait to use these hacks! Thank you ❤
I'll be picking up a small car booster with built-in USB for charging small devices. I have a battery maintainer, but my battery went flat because I forgot to put the little solar panel on the dash. My neighbour brought over his hand-held booster and had me going immediately, so I knew it was a good thing to have, for me and for anyone else who needs a boost but can't move their car out of the driveway so cables can be used. And it never hurts to have an extra power device. Your EcoFlow, like my Bluetti, has pass-through charging, so you can charge it while you drive, while it runs your fridge. I'm hoping to take my fridge shopping tomorrow, in freezer mode for frozen food. My son is taking me into town as my vehicle's door panel has come loose, on the driver's side and jammed the door, so I have to climb out the passenger side, which is a royal pain for arthritic knees and hips. He knows what parts it needs to be fixed, so we'll be looking for that as well. He is a good man and helps when he can. Jon in rural BC, Canada
I keep 25 metres of para chord and that is our washing line, wound on a piece of ply. It has other uses too around the home, but I keep it in the van..Keep the fridge cool by living on frozen food, burgers, peas, always buy something. Toilet without a portapotti:- No.1s:- 2 Sangria bottles which have wider necks (for obvious reasons) and a She-wee for the lady, when you empty it people think you are throwing away Sangria. No.2s, 2 solutions:- A simple bucket and a dog poo bag (bio-d) and in the wilds a "Machitty", a flat ended machete. Walk around with a shovel and everyone knows what you are doing, and also no one is going to attack you in the woods carrying a machete.
First video. Love how real you are. Laughed out loud about the hanger being lost. I think my life is going to be organized if I have less stuff, but I still lose things. I've camped across the country (USA) a bit and am headed for another trip to the Pacific Northwest (from Kansas--middle state). I think I'll use these videos as encouragement to go vanning full-time. Thanks for the helpful and fun video.
Hi Brenna it was Joyfull watching your TH-cam video. I am 74 years old today. My wife and I camp in our 21 foot travel trailer ever chance we get. We usually camp at state parks close to home and invite our family members to come out and camp. They all camp in tents. Our little camper has double door fridge that runs on 120 VAC or propane and the camper has 2, 20 lb. propane bottles. It also has an A/C, bathroom with shower and the other standards as gas range, microwave and TV antenna that works. Had never heard of a pet cooling pad, thanks. I do keep a couple of rubber pads for our dog that I got from Harbor Freight. Our dog is a 15 year old Australian Cattle Dog. I really enjoyed you and your presentation. Thank you, Patrick
First time watching your videos. Very useful information. I will mention that ( here in the US anyway) you'll want to use a dryer if you wash your clothes in a public washer because you could get lice, bed bugs etc. The dryer kills them, not the washer.
Yep, l have used a handtowel on bus trips, where luggage space is at a premium. On longer trips, l take 2 handtowels, and that means l still have one, when one is in the wash, and the 2 still take up less room than a bathtowel. 😊👍
Hi Brenna and Abby... thankyou for those wonderful tips and tricks. I thought they were all very clever and I definitely took notes ✍ Ive got my fridge, one power station but will invest in a 2nd one and my solar panels arrived today too. I did a night of car camping last night and loved it even though it was in a little hatchback so now to spruce her up to sell for a bigger vehicle to continue my travel dream. I cant wait to organise my new car/van with your tips and tricks. Thanks again 😊🌻
Simply brilliant ideas. Thank you. I once spent 6 months living out of my van without solar or refrigeration. We did find a kerosene heater to use in a tent. It was smelly but kept us from freezing at night. At the moment am living vicariously through folks like you.
We used bungee cords for many things too. You can hook several together and put each end around fence posts or saplings to make a really long clothes line in the sun. Or stretch it between your vehicle and anything nearby like a sign post, a tent pole, fence, tree, etc., even another camper vehicle if you're meeting up with other vanners. It's also a good idea to carry a real 30-40 foot clothes line. You never know when you'll need a rope.
I love your tips I have a few for you. Your shirts and tops shack out you clothes and hang it on a hanger it will be less crinkled or no crinkled. If you Wash your clothes rinse clothes out with white vinegar. Stains on clothes you can use different things, I normally mix some products and it works. Sunlight bar soap, a bit of toothpaste mix with washing powder rub in and wash good. Hope it will work for you
Very cool hacks! We have a ford transit 250 cargo van that we went with a NO BUILD approach. We always appreciate seeing what others do in their vans! Keep making memories & adventure on! ~Karen & Shannon WOY
Wow first of your videos I've seen and I'm impressed so I just subscribed. I live my Lucci lights just bought an upgrade that you can charge with usb, my first was solar only Another thing I use EVERYDAY is a miners light. I use it on the road and at off grid homebase. Be sure and get the ones that are usb recharge and not run it regular batteries. I also use magnets with the hooks to hang things. I left a strip of metal showing around ceiling/wall because i knew i was going to do this. I enjoyed your video and see ya down the road!
Hello from Spain! Just found your channel and this is the first video I watched. Love all your tips, your attitude and your dog! Can’t wait to have some time to catch up and watch all your videos. Thanks and have a good day 👍🏻☮️
Some terrific suggestions, particularly about Power Banks which you always simplify for us. Hope winter is being gentle with you both, nearly Spring. Safe and happy travels, love to dear Abbey. 🐾
Thanks! I am a month late, but wanted to say what great ideas and fun to watch - thank you! I am team Ecoflow and interesting (and smart!) re the 2 small units vs 1 large. My EcoFlow purchases are twofold … maybe 3 … backup in my house, backup in my motor home and as I am downsizing to van/mini-van for travel, full power there. I’m in NW MT US, small house on rural property so think I am keeping my 20 year old motor home for spare house/guest house and adding a mini-van for short trips. At any rate, I started with EcoFlow last July (PrimeDay), 2nd purchases this year. I am very happy with all items and the 1 time I needed customer service, it was EXCELLENT! The current items like River2 … batteries are not only safer but have much longer life (# of charges). The River2 series are great functionally as well as price point. Fun to see another EcoFlow person!! LOVE the tea towel tip also!!
Great tips. I especially like the bungee cord clothes lines. :) I like the idea of a cooling mat. My cats love the heat, but I don't. You can also buy cooling blankets that are made to keep people cool. The mat under and the blanket over would be just the ticket for those too hot nights. Those little dehumidifiers are great to control moisture. Instead of buying expensive refills, you can use rock salt (the kind used in winter). It's the same stuff, just way cheaper in a huge bag. Probably not practical for van life, but good if you've got the storage. No need to apologise for Abby. I love to hear her speak her mind. :) Now I'm going to re-watch the video. in case I missed something. Jon in rural BC, Canada
Luv the two battery idea. I have charged mine at parks before. Take dog for walk plug in and chill for a little bit. Never thought of cemeteries for quiet space. But the residents are very quiet
Portable power stations make a lot of sense, I see people installing very complex power systems which in Aus would require certification and now the portables are more cost effective. 👍
A smaller portable power station makes sense because you sleep in your RV but you live outside and outside with a power station allows you to do many things outside and away from the vehicle. GREAT IDEA !
First time seeing a video of yours, came up in my YT feed. Been watching van life vids for years, this is the first one to suggest something new and/or helpful in a long time! And I love your humor and cheer! New sub, with best wishes for safety and joy!🤗
There are times my good dogs need to Tay in the van, I have a few ore carabiners around the openings and use a cargo net to ensure they stay there while enjoying the open door, thanks for the tips!
Thank you for your video. Some I know, but some not. I have bought a mini inverter for my laptop (19,5 Volt) to run it with 12 Volts. It needs much les power, as with his AC Charger. I have a dozen of kitchen towels. They are so universal use, and you clean it by laundry. I use fans by 12 Volts, added with quick clamps. (by USB it has too less power) Minimum Diameter: 20 centimeters = 8 inches. Clamp it on the table = no bugs. I have some gel cool packs in my compressor cooler. If it knocks out by no electric power, the gel packs keeps all cool for four days. Or if you switch power off for the night. The dog of my neighbour sometimes barks in the night, for one hour. But Nobdy becomes angry, in our street. We are living in a village, not in a town = better neighbours. My vehicle is a red opel combo c Very small but cheap and good. With more mileage by diesel engine. named "Elena" = spanish name, because manufactured in Spain. Greetings from sw germany (middle europe) liked + subscribed.
So enjoyed today. I made my own nets with mozzie net &, magnets from Spotloght works like a dream. Love the idea of a spray bottle of vinegar, water for dishes. Keep it up, never tired of watching you &, Abbi.
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I’m about to move into my van soon and no more sticks and bricks. I can see I can learn a lot from your channel. Thank you for sharing your journey and knowledge 🥰
Bunnings sell fly screens that come in a little box, meant for houses that don’t have fly screens. I have one permanently installed on my drivers side and you can barely notice it’s there. Cost about 8 bucks, and the mesh is really nice if you have sensory issues. I’m gonna buy some dehumidifiers next time I go through a Bunnings town for sure, I’m well insulated in my hiace but the front has still been getting condensation in Vic winter
My favourite hacks are the washing line and the pet cooling mat!! 😂 I have a cooling blanket, my favourite thing. I enjoyed watching an Aussie in a van. Happy days 😊
Hi Brenna! I’ve bought a small micro fibre towel from Rebel Sports which works well and dries quickly. Takes a bit to get used to the different feel to it though. I like the feel of the cotton towels best but can be a challenge when travelling to get dry during wet weather. You’ve given some really good tips here. Take care!
A turkish towel is thin good quality cotton. they dry you very well, extremely thirsty but they are also very thin and dry quickly. Don’t use fabric conditioner on them.
Thanks for the bungee laundry tip! I'll be travelling with a dog and cat and their well-being is my first priority, so appreciate the review about the pet cooling mat.
Enjoying your video. Here's another option for gold coins, go to a games room of a pub or club, many of them have free coffee and tea .... I don't play the games
We have an eco flow River with add on battery but we also bought the solar pannel, which it brilliant to run my husbands Nebulator machine. We don't live in our van, just use it for leisure.
I enjoyed this video a lot! We move into our RV full-time starting tomorrow! We have been packing and moving out or.stuff for at least a month and we are finally ready!! 🙌
I have two small hospital towels which is great for my van. I use an occy strap to hang them up to dry. I use the occy straps to hang all my laundry, too, if I don't feel like paying to use a dryer
A question for a future Q&A: how to feel sure that snakes and spiders don‘t feel tempted to enter your cosy van, given you leave the doors open most of the time while camping? Loved your tips. 🙌💐
Thanks Brenna!! Great tips. I’m just starting my van build and trying to keep things simple like you. I think you’ve just solved my power issues as I will have minimal power needs and the 2 units should work well. 🙏🏼🦋⭐️🧡
If you have a small tree around, drape it with a wet towel, hand towel ok, and put your butter within it, it will keep your butter hard. or peanut butter...
Where do I start ? The simpliest and sooo ez is the bungie cord/clothes hanger. On the practical side, having two smaller power units instead of one large makes sense. I love how you use magnet inside and out. . THANK YOU for sharing.
Thanks for the tips/hacks. I'm still planning for my life in a van next year. Love the tea-towel idea. Who would've thought! I've checked out the EcoFlow (river 2) as well. I have a main battery, but they're on my list now for a backup. Cant use your links yet - van wont be delivered till June 2024. Bungy cords now on list! Excellent about the vinegar and you get another use out of it - salad dressing. Coins? Never thought of that at all. Right, pet cooling mat (on list tick).
Great video you smashed it such good hacks and tricks.loved it and had greai laughs you made my day .Keep safe and happy travels Living every day to your fullest.
Thank you so much for the trick and tips. Tea towel trick is the best one 😊 I didn't know that you could withdraw money at the post office. Once again thank you and stay safe ❤
Amazing, very creative and common sense solutions to van life challenges. You mentioned more new ones that any video I have watched and I have watched a whole bunch ! Thank you for sharing. BTW: both daughters are in the 'hot flash stage' and I can't wait to share the doggie cooling pad tip with them.
Hey Brenda, Loving your tips and hacks to no end.. Another great towel that’s light weight and quick dry, and I’m taking multiple, are the Kmart grey camping towels.. $8- and the best drying towel I’ve found.. Not going to lie, I use it on my hair at home because it’s so absorbent and my hair is long and thick 😊 I know you’re probably aware but with your bungee cord clothes line (great idea) I’d drill a couple of holes on the inside of the rear door so you can hook them into it securely and don’t lose an eye if they slip off.. I’d hate to see you get hurt ✌️
What ever works. First thing I did was create bug screens and window coverings. The solid for night time privacy. And double layers of very fine mesh for bug screens. I just made them to fit the doors, and they slip on just like a pillow case. If we open the doors, they stay in place. I can drive with the mesh on as they fit snuggly. (have them for our car also) All side windows have covers to fit with reflective on one side, and black on the other. Black lets the heat in, the shiny side reflects it out. Privacy either way. I do use a large sheer and magnets for the side door if we are staying in one place a while. Ok going back to check your channel some more. I subscribed, and will be back. Happy Van Life.
Good tricks, thanks. I'll share one of my favorite tricks, use your fridge to freeze those blue ice packs, rotate them once a day into a small cooler for your condiments, cheese and such. No need to have 2 fridges, I have a Dometic CFX 35 I keep at 25°f to keep most of the contents frozen, and a 10 qt. Cooler for my condiments.
So many of your ideas are the same ones i have been using after 4 years in a micro camper CRV RD1.The small towel .....the upgrade on the power station to an Ecoflo and so many more.....Great to see your insights into minimal living with ease on the road. Love your channel, keep on rolling 🌎😎
I've used the tea towel hack even though I live in a house,my washing machine broke and I had to do laundry by hand for quite awhile,regular towels were so heavy to wash and ring out so I started using two tea towels per shower,one for me and one to wipe down the shower,much easier to launder
Buy 2 small buckets:
Drill lots of small holes in the bottom of the top bucket & the top bucket lid.
Place it inside the bottom bucket. Now fill it with Epsom Salts to the top & put the lid on. As the bottom bucket fills with water, empty it & refill the top pail with Epsom Salts, as needed = ZERO Humidity, ZERO Mold, ZERO Fogged Windows, = Happy Camper.
Great tip!
That is amazing! I had a very dear friend who had a tiny house and every time she went to her summer vacation spot she was always having to buy one of those buckets with the whatever it was in it not knowing that it was just simply opened salt she could have saved yourself quite a bit of money well we live and learn thanks for the economic tip tip tip tip guru😂🎉
Well, I'll be! Thank you!
Wow ! Excellent idea.
I don't understand...the salt sits in the bucket and prevents humidity?
Buy tubes of Cilicone caulk and thin it out with 90% rubbing alcohol or mineral spirits in a bowl into to a syrupy concistancy and paint brush it onto your ceiling and walls to water proof the wood from absorbing condensation. Brush it onto the back of your phone and never drop it again. Anything that slides around, just brush some on the bottom of the item. Also you can coat counters and handles for better grip. You can water proof boots and hats and brush it on cloth to make tarps.
Would that work on a fibroglass hitop?
@@manuelester7420 thankyou for that information 👍🌸
Wonderful. Thanks for the info!!!
The Bungee cords for drying your clothes, Brilliant!
Thank you! Cheers!
Here’s a bonus hack combining two of your hacks!!! I have 5 of the pet cooling mats… 🤪 . 3 small 2 large. The small ones I rotate in my fridge for extra cooling! And so when my fridge has room, I fill the space with the cooling mats! Makes me feel like I’m storing that wasted energy! Like a cold battery bank! 😂 Works AMAZING! Take a chilled small one and place on top of large and really radiate the cooling 🥶 ahhhhhh so refreshing
That is awesome!
You can buy small versions of these in pound shop
This is a great idea
Great video. An add-on for your fridge/ice hack. Bags of ice tend to leak and fill the cooler with water & all the contents end up floating or filled with water themselves. I use screwtop drink shaker bottles and put the ice in there. They don't leak, and as it defrosts, you can drink a cool refreshing water. Without these, it is better to transfer the ice into quality ziplock bags, because they leak less
Oh and added bonus.. some cafes will fill your ahaker with ice, if you aren't somewhere you can buy a bag
Great tip 😊
I love to see older grave sites. Make my imagination work.
U can see beautiful flowers too.
I have a cooling blanket i use when i camp and at home.
I got pretty stretch lace fabric and magnet that on my van door openings! It’s super pretty and easy to move magnet to open/close. Breeze comes thru great and keeps bugs out too
Great idea!!
I love this idea!
I know a lady truck driver who has small dogs and she sewed together some panty hose together to pull over her doors so the windows can be down for the dogs but also keep bugs away. Super cool idea!
Warning ⚠️⚡ I have a tip to replace those ugly bungee cords on your beautiful dresser drawers.😁 Drill a small hole on left or right side of the cabinet for each drawer. Home Depot sells metal dowel pins with little bumps on them and they'll snap into the hole, keeping each drawer from sliding out. Go cheaper and just use wooden dowels. Be sure the hole is only large enough for the dowel pins to be snug. Drill on a slight angle slanted downward so the pins don't vibrate out while driving.😃😎🤗
I used baby locks
These tip videos are usually the same obvious things over and over like "get a fan". But you really had some neat useful ones I've never seen.
Thanks, I think we tend to take for granted the little things we work out.
I've enjoyed this video so much. I am not a vanlifer but wish I could have been. I live with my daughter and have basicly only my room. Never the less I find many of the tips very useful. Like the dishcloth for drying when doing a spongebath. I love your joyfulness. May God bless you and keep you safe. Everyday.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I cut out fiberglass fly screens to the shape of my van windows an inch wider than the window all around and I used a rubberized adhesive and glued it all around and no mosquitoes or flies get inside. Living in Florida heat for 3 years and they haven't disolved. Use fiberglass door screen found in rolls at Lowes or Home Depot. Cut to shape and caulk into place.😎😎😎
I have microfibre bath towels. They take up very little room and dry quickly
I tip trick. To make it last longer, wrap it in newspaper. Also packing the food in lunch totes then sticking them in a fridge helps too. lose the shelves. The food comes out more easily, it's padded from breakage. Good plastic egg holders that hold 6 are a must also.😊
But don't you loose space in fridge? I only have a ten quart compressor fridge
Great video Brenna. I use sarong as a towel substitute, Dries quickly and takes up so much less space, plus bigger than a tea towel. Love your clothes dryer and the tip about two batteries.
Thanks for sharing!!
When I travelled for 3 months in Mexico, a sarong was a lifesaver. Used it for a ton of things! That was 1990. Lol
Oh my gosh, that giggle/laugh is absolutely beautiful. Made my heart happy to just hear it. Sorry to get off track of your hard work on this video. Well, sometimes a good side track is appropriate. Thank you for the tips and oh my gosh...keep laughing, it's so wonderful!
I’ve been holding off getting the Ecoflow River Pro + 220W Solar I’ve had my eye on, when you said Ecoflow sponsored the vid, I was hoping you would have a code & you did 🎉 and I was able to claim it!! 🎉 I can’t thank you enough! 😘🥰 the code saved me almost $100 & I’m also getting a Ecoflow camping light as a free gift 💝 There will be a big hug for you when we eventually cross paths 🤗 Love, love, love divine timing! Thank you again ❤
Good call!
On hot nights, I spray water on a sheet and cover myself. Cools me down and keeps the mozzies off me. I also use a pet cooling mat 😊
That's a great idea!
Your hanger is with your bath towel!? LOL
The clothes line tip is exactly what I needed!!!!! My van conversion is finally coming to an end after 4 long months of working on it. I can't wait to use these hacks! Thank you ❤
Glad it helped!
I'll be picking up a small car booster with built-in USB for charging small devices. I have a battery maintainer, but my battery went flat because I forgot to put the little solar panel on the dash. My neighbour brought over his hand-held booster and had me going immediately, so I knew it was a good thing to have, for me and for anyone else who needs a boost but can't move their car out of the driveway so cables can be used. And it never hurts to have an extra power device.
Your EcoFlow, like my Bluetti, has pass-through charging, so you can charge it while you drive, while it runs your fridge.
I'm hoping to take my fridge shopping tomorrow, in freezer mode for frozen food. My son is taking me into town as my vehicle's door panel has come loose, on the driver's side and jammed the door, so I have to climb out the passenger side, which is a royal pain for arthritic knees and hips. He knows what parts it needs to be fixed, so we'll be looking for that as well. He is a good man and helps when he can.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
I keep 25 metres of para chord and that is our washing line, wound on a piece of ply. It has other uses too around the home, but I keep it in the van..Keep the fridge cool by living on frozen food, burgers, peas, always buy something.
Toilet without a portapotti:- No.1s:- 2 Sangria bottles which have wider necks (for obvious reasons) and a She-wee for the lady, when you empty it people think you are throwing away Sangria. No.2s, 2 solutions:- A simple bucket and a dog poo bag (bio-d) and in the wilds a "Machitty", a flat ended machete. Walk around with a shovel and everyone knows what you are doing, and also no one is going to attack you in the woods carrying a machete.
As a dehumidifier you can also use bricketts/coal as they work for both absorbing moisture and making your fridge and rooms smell less stinky
Great idea 😊
First video. Love how real you are. Laughed out loud about the hanger being lost. I think my life is going to be organized if I have less stuff, but I still lose things. I've camped across the country (USA) a bit and am headed for another trip to the Pacific Northwest (from Kansas--middle state). I think I'll use these videos as encouragement to go vanning full-time. Thanks for the helpful and fun video.
Happy travels 😊
Thanks, Brenna... l like the fact that your ideas are practical, simple and cheap. And Aussie! 😊👍🦘
❤❤❤
You are so welcome!
Ohhh.. your hanger is with your towel.... :-P
😂😂
Thanks for the post office coin tip. That's a great one!
Glad you liked it!
Hi Brenna it was Joyfull watching your TH-cam video. I am 74 years old today. My wife and I camp in our 21 foot travel trailer ever chance we get. We usually camp at state parks close to home and invite our family members to come out and camp. They all camp in tents. Our little camper has double door fridge that runs on 120 VAC or propane and the camper has 2, 20 lb. propane bottles. It also has an A/C, bathroom with shower and the other standards as gas range, microwave and TV antenna that works.
Had never heard of a pet cooling pad, thanks. I do keep a couple of rubber pads for our dog that I got from Harbor Freight. Our dog is a 15 year old Australian Cattle Dog.
I really enjoyed you and your presentation.
Thank you,
Patrick
Thanks Patrick and happy travels 😊
First time watching your videos.
Very useful information. I will mention that ( here in the US anyway) you'll want to use a dryer if you wash your clothes in a public washer because you could get lice, bed bugs etc. The dryer kills them, not the washer.
Good to know 😊
I like the tea towel idea. I've been using a hand towel, which is far easier to wash than a full size and easy to pack/hang out. cheers from W.A. 🙂
Yep, l have used a handtowel on bus trips, where luggage space is at a premium. On longer trips, l take 2 handtowels, and that means l still have one, when one is in the wash, and the 2 still take up less room than a bathtowel. 😊👍
Great minds think alike 😉
Hi Brenna and Abby... thankyou for those wonderful tips and tricks. I thought they were all very clever and I definitely took notes ✍ Ive got my fridge, one power station but will invest in a 2nd one and my solar panels arrived today too. I did a night of car camping last night and loved it even though it was in a little hatchback so now to spruce her up to sell for a bigger vehicle to continue my travel dream. I cant wait to organise my new car/van with your tips and tricks. Thanks again 😊🌻
You are so welcome!
Simply brilliant ideas. Thank you. I once spent 6 months living out of my van without solar or refrigeration. We did find a kerosene heater to use in a tent. It was smelly but kept us from freezing at night. At the moment am living vicariously through folks like you.
That is awesome!
We used bungee cords for many things too. You can hook several together and put each end around fence posts or saplings to make a really long clothes line in the sun. Or stretch it between your vehicle and anything nearby like a sign post, a tent pole, fence, tree, etc., even another camper vehicle if you're meeting up with other vanners.
It's also a good idea to carry a real 30-40 foot clothes line. You never know when you'll need a rope.
I do have a long rope in the van👍
I love your tips I have a few for you. Your shirts and tops shack out you clothes and hang it on a hanger it will be less crinkled or no crinkled. If you Wash your clothes rinse clothes out with white vinegar. Stains on clothes you can use different things, I normally mix some products and it works. Sunlight bar soap, a bit of toothpaste mix with washing powder rub in and wash good. Hope it will work for you
Great tips
Dont apologize for your dog. She just wants to help with your video!! ❤dogs!!
Yes, she loves to be included 😂
Very cool hacks! We have a ford transit 250 cargo van that we went with a NO BUILD approach. We always appreciate seeing what others do in their vans! Keep making memories & adventure on! ~Karen & Shannon WOY
Thanks 🙏
Wow first of your videos I've seen and I'm impressed so I just subscribed. I live my Lucci lights just bought an upgrade that you can charge with usb, my first was solar only
Another thing I use EVERYDAY is a miners light. I use it on the road and at off grid homebase. Be sure and get the ones that are usb recharge and not run it regular batteries.
I also use magnets with the hooks to hang things. I left a strip of metal showing around ceiling/wall because i knew i was going to do this.
I enjoyed your video and see ya down the road!
Great tips
U can get those dehumidifiers in the US for a dollar twenty five at dollar tree
Once again ... I learned more. Never underestimate the power of listening!
😊
Hello from Spain! Just found your channel and this is the first video I watched. Love all your tips, your attitude and your dog! Can’t wait to have some time to catch up and watch all your videos. Thanks and have a good day 👍🏻☮️
Welcome!!
I love that clothesline on the back of the trunk That is so smart Thank you for sharing❤
Thanks for watching!
I use a square waffle weave face cloth as a bath towel, which saves more laundry money, drying time, and storage space.
Great idea
Brilliant! Thank you! I especially like your hack for hanging your laundry on the rear hatch with bungee chords! Well done! 👍
Thank you! 😊
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully Sure thing! 👍😊
"Paracord" best ever instant clothes line ! and a billion other uses
Some terrific suggestions, particularly about Power Banks which you always simplify for us.
Hope winter is being gentle with you both, nearly Spring.
Safe and happy travels, love to dear Abbey. 🐾
Feels like spring today!!
They have cooling blankets now that I’ve went thru already lol
Thanks!
I am a month late, but wanted to say what great ideas and fun to watch - thank you! I am team Ecoflow and interesting (and smart!) re the 2 small units vs 1 large. My EcoFlow purchases are twofold … maybe 3 … backup in my house, backup in my motor home and as I am downsizing to van/mini-van for travel, full power there. I’m in NW MT US, small house on rural property so think I am keeping my 20 year old motor home for spare house/guest house and adding a mini-van for short trips. At any rate, I started with EcoFlow last July (PrimeDay), 2nd purchases this year. I am very happy with all items and the 1 time I needed customer service, it was EXCELLENT! The current items like River2 … batteries are not only safer but have much longer life (# of charges). The River2 series are great functionally as well as price point. Fun to see another EcoFlow person!! LOVE the tea towel tip also!!
Thank you so much for the superthanks🙏. I do really love EcoFlow products 😊
Thank you for sharing this.❤
A Japanese minimalist turned me onto tenugui towels. Light, absorbent, fast dry, beautiful patterns.
Wonderful!
Very nice van hacks and your pup is a doll ! Her eyes are beautiful! Beautiful pup !
Thank you so much!
Great tips. I especially like the bungee cord clothes lines. :)
I like the idea of a cooling mat. My cats love the heat, but I don't. You can also buy cooling blankets that are made to keep people cool. The mat under and the blanket over would be just the ticket for those too hot nights.
Those little dehumidifiers are great to control moisture. Instead of buying expensive refills, you can use rock salt (the kind used in winter). It's the same stuff, just way cheaper in a huge bag. Probably not practical for van life, but good if you've got the storage.
No need to apologise for Abby. I love to hear her speak her mind. :)
Now I'm going to re-watch the video. in case I missed something.
Jon in rural BC, Canada
Thanks Jon
Nice! Your smile/ giggles…infectious!
I’ll definitely get a pet cooling mat…thanks!
Have fun!
Luv the two battery idea. I have charged mine at parks before. Take dog for walk plug in and chill for a little bit. Never thought of cemeteries for quiet space. But the residents are very quiet
Yes indeed 😊
Portable power stations make a lot of sense, I see people installing very complex power systems which in Aus would require certification and now the portables are more cost effective. 👍
Yes, exactly
A smaller portable power station makes sense because you sleep in your RV but you live outside and outside with a power station allows you to do many things outside and away from the vehicle. GREAT IDEA !
First time seeing a video of yours, came up in my YT feed. Been watching van life vids for years, this is the first one to suggest something new and/or helpful in a long time! And I love your humor and cheer! New sub, with best wishes for safety and joy!🤗
Awesome! Thank you!
There are times my good dogs need to Tay in the van, I have a few ore carabiners around the openings and use a cargo net to ensure they stay there while enjoying the open door, thanks for the tips!
Sounds great!
These are Incredible Tips. She has a lovely spirit. I love her joy.
So glad!
Thank you for your video. Some I know, but some not.
I have bought a mini inverter for my laptop (19,5 Volt) to run it with 12 Volts.
It needs much les power, as with his AC Charger.
I have a dozen of kitchen towels. They are so universal use, and you clean it by laundry.
I use fans by 12 Volts, added with quick clamps. (by USB it has too less power)
Minimum Diameter: 20 centimeters = 8 inches.
Clamp it on the table = no bugs.
I have some gel cool packs in my compressor cooler.
If it knocks out by no electric power, the gel packs keeps all cool for four days.
Or if you switch power off for the night.
The dog of my neighbour sometimes barks in the night, for one hour.
But Nobdy becomes angry, in our street.
We are living in a village, not in a town = better neighbours.
My vehicle is a red opel combo c
Very small but cheap and good. With more mileage by diesel engine.
named "Elena" = spanish name, because manufactured in Spain.
Greetings from sw germany (middle europe) liked + subscribed.
Greetings 👋
So enjoyed today. I made my own nets with mozzie net &, magnets from Spotloght works like a dream. Love the idea of a spray bottle of vinegar, water for dishes. Keep it up, never tired of watching you &, Abbi.
Thanks 😊
I think you are a genius! I just bought a box of paint markers for my grandsons. I love all of your ideas my new friend 😊🤗
Thanks so much 😊
@@BrennaLivingJoyfully I’m about to move into my van soon and no more sticks and bricks. I can see I can learn a lot from your channel. Thank you for sharing your journey and knowledge 🥰
Bunnings sell fly screens that come in a little box, meant for houses that don’t have fly screens. I have one permanently installed on my drivers side and you can barely notice it’s there. Cost about 8 bucks, and the mesh is really nice if you have sensory issues. I’m gonna buy some dehumidifiers next time I go through a Bunnings town for sure, I’m well insulated in my hiace but the front has still been getting condensation in Vic winter
Great tip
That was the best van life hack video that I've ever seen. So many useful ideas. Thank you so much.
Glad it was helpful!
My favourite hacks are the washing line and the pet cooling mat!! 😂 I have a cooling blanket, my favourite thing. I enjoyed watching an Aussie in a van. Happy days 😊
Thanks for sharing!!
Thanks for the tip about the powerstations. Makes total sense! I'm going to do that too.
No problem 👍
🤗 Thank you for a nice video 🌹 Hug from Mary, a pensioner in Stockholm, Sweden
Thanks for watching!
Hi Brenna! I’ve bought a small micro fibre towel from Rebel Sports which works well and dries quickly. Takes a bit to get used to the different feel to it though. I like the feel of the cotton towels best but can be a challenge when travelling to get dry during wet weather. You’ve given some really good tips here. Take care!
Great idea!
The micro fibre is amazing isn't it. Its great for getting long hair dry.
I love the Norwex gym towel, rolls up smaller than a washcloth! Comes with its own little carry bag
A turkish towel is thin good quality cotton. they dry you very well, extremely thirsty but they are also very thin and dry quickly. Don’t use fabric conditioner on them.
i use those microfibre towels too. i would place thrm at the dashboard to dry while driving. dries in a short time. saves space.
Thanks for the bungee laundry tip! I'll be travelling with a dog and cat and their well-being is my first priority, so appreciate the review about the pet cooling mat.
Glad to help 😊
Enjoying your video.
Here's another option for gold coins, go to a games room of a pub or club, many of them have free coffee and tea .... I don't play the games
Great tip 😊
We have an eco flow River with add on battery but we also bought the solar pannel, which it brilliant to run my husbands Nebulator machine. We don't live in our van, just use it for leisure.
Awesome 😊
Very good yes .. and these hangers ..dont get me started..they should be called hiders ..😂🤣😂😍😎😁pip pips n carryon mzz pilgrims
😂😂
Douglas Adams taught us all to ALWAYS know where your towel is!
😂😂
I enjoyed this video a lot! We move into our RV full-time starting tomorrow! We have been packing and moving out or.stuff for at least a month and we are finally ready!! 🙌
That is awesome!
I love your realness n your helpful hints n hacks❤
Thanks 🙏
I have two small hospital towels which is great for my van. I use an occy strap to hang them up to dry. I use the occy straps to hang all my laundry, too, if I don't feel like paying to use a dryer
Great idea 😊
A question for a future Q&A: how to feel sure that snakes and spiders don‘t feel tempted to enter your cosy van, given you leave the doors open most of the time while camping? Loved your tips. 🙌💐
Snakes are happier in the bush but I have had a couple of Huntsmen spiders try to make my van home 😊
Thanks Brenna!! Great tips. I’m just starting my van build and trying to keep things simple like you. I think you’ve just solved my power issues as I will have minimal power needs and the 2 units should work well. 🙏🏼🦋⭐️🧡
Glad it was helpful!
Excellent video, I myself use a few of those tips and also learnt some new ones, many thanks. Cheers Judy
If you have a small tree around, drape it with a wet towel, hand towel ok, and put your butter within it, it will keep your butter hard. or peanut butter...
Great tip
Great ideas! Also, church carparks (except on Sundays☺️) in country towns are often quiet places for lunch etc.
Great tip👍
Yes you have a lot of good ideas, but I am disabled and I cannot drive, and I live in UK but I love to watch people in their van life
Glad you enjoyed watching 😊
Yes thank you I did, I hope everything works out the way you want it to take care dear lady 👍💖
I have used bandannas on camping trips it worked well
Where do I start ? The simpliest and sooo ez is the bungie cord/clothes hanger. On the practical side, having two smaller power units instead of one large makes sense. I love how you use magnet inside and out. . THANK YOU for sharing.
You are welcome
Thanks for the tips/hacks. I'm still planning for my life in a van next year. Love the tea-towel idea. Who would've thought! I've checked out the EcoFlow (river 2) as well. I have a main battery, but they're on my list now for a backup. Cant use your links yet - van wont be delivered till June 2024. Bungy cords now on list! Excellent about the vinegar and you get another use out of it - salad dressing. Coins? Never thought of that at all. Right, pet cooling mat (on list tick).
Glad it was helpful!
Love your tips. I love to dry my clothes outdoors so now I know how I can. Thanks!
Happy to help!
Great video you smashed it such good hacks and tricks.loved it and had greai laughs you made my day .Keep safe and happy travels Living every day to your fullest.
Thank you! You too!
Here is a hack for you..when hanging your clothes on clothes line..hang them from one line to the other...can hang 10x as many clothes...
Great idea 😊
I do the same with my dishes but I add a couple drops of Dawn
Thank you so much for the trick and tips. Tea towel trick is the best one 😊
I didn't know that you could withdraw money at the post office. Once again thank you and stay safe ❤
Happy to help!
Here in USA one can withdrawal money at some grocery stores for free, up to $100 or less. Ask. Some charge fee. Convenient for me
Amazing, very creative and common sense solutions to van life challenges. You mentioned more new ones that any video I have watched and I have watched a whole bunch ! Thank you for sharing. BTW: both daughters are in the 'hot flash stage' and I can't wait to share the doggie cooling pad tip with them.
Glad you like them!
That’s what I do but I use hand towels
Vinegar and water great for cleaning windows too ! Cannot beat it !
Totally agree!
Hi Brenna so happy I found your channel love Aussie videos.. Keep them coming please
Thank you! Will do!
Just discovered your channel and we really enjoy it. We find you very real and will be following these tips for when we start our travels this year
Welcome!!
Hey Brenda,
Loving your tips and hacks to no end..
Another great towel that’s light weight and quick dry, and I’m taking multiple, are the Kmart grey camping towels..
$8- and the best drying towel I’ve found.. Not going to lie, I use it on my hair at home because it’s so absorbent and my hair is long and thick 😊
I know you’re probably aware but with your bungee cord clothes line (great idea) I’d drill a couple of holes on the inside of the rear door so you can hook them into it securely and don’t lose an eye if they slip off.. I’d hate to see you get hurt ✌️
Great idea!!
That is an awesome list of hacks! Loving the pet cooling mat! Going to have to order one.
I love it!
What ever works. First thing I did was create bug screens and window coverings. The solid for night time privacy. And double layers of very fine mesh for bug screens. I just made them to fit the doors, and they slip on just like a pillow case. If we open the doors, they stay in place. I can drive with the mesh on as they fit snuggly. (have them for our car also) All side windows have covers to fit with reflective on one side, and black on the other. Black lets the heat in, the shiny side reflects it out. Privacy either way. I do use a large sheer and magnets for the side door if we are staying in one place a while. Ok going back to check your channel some more. I subscribed, and will be back. Happy Van Life.
Thanks for sharing 😊
Good tricks, thanks. I'll share one of my favorite tricks, use your fridge to freeze those blue ice packs, rotate them once a day into a small cooler for your condiments, cheese and such. No need to have 2 fridges, I have a Dometic CFX 35 I keep at 25°f to keep most of the contents frozen, and a 10 qt. Cooler for my condiments.
Great idea
I've got long hair so the tea towel wouldn't work for me, but I guess I could use two 😊
Perfect!
So many of your ideas are the same ones i have been using after 4 years in a micro camper CRV RD1.The small towel .....the upgrade on the power station to an Ecoflo and so many more.....Great to see your insights into minimal living with ease on the road. Love your channel, keep on rolling 🌎😎
That is awesome!
My first video of yours to watch and I loved it! Great tips. Now to read through all of your commenters' great ideas too! -Idaho, USA
Welcome!!
I've used the tea towel hack even though I live in a house,my washing machine broke and I had to do laundry by hand for quite awhile,regular towels were so heavy to wash and ring out so I started using two tea towels per shower,one for me and one to wipe down the shower,much easier to launder
Great to see someone else doing it 😊
Black cososh works well. For hot flushes.