OUR NEW CARAVAN REVEALED - its not what your expecting!!/ Caravan Walk through

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  • Опубликовано: 26 дек 2024

Комментарии • 596

  • @chasinganadventure
    @chasinganadventure Год назад +32

    Seriously with what everyone is doing these days in the travelling world this is a game changer !! Showing everyone that no matter what you have you can travel Australia. Seriously guys this is bloody great 👍

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thanks so much!! 🙌🏼😁

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +4

      Thank you so much! It doesn’t matter what your doing it in, it’s the experience that matters ☺️

    • @kenlillia
      @kenlillia Год назад +2

      @@nowornever_aus you will be surprised how many people will want to look at your van. Mine looks great and so does yours.

    • @leealdous4609
      @leealdous4609 Год назад +1

      Totally agree. What a breath of fresh air. No bigger than Ben Hur budget and keeping it real. Can't wait to see the reno

  • @heathermiller1154
    @heathermiller1154 Год назад +6

    We love your episodes and it's so refreshing to see that you are not spending $300,000 or more for the best of the best. There aren't many families ( or couples ) who realistically can afford that. You are making travelling real and relatable to many of us. Thankyou ! Well done..cheers 😊

  • @bobkats
    @bobkats Год назад +6

    Guys this is the real stuff, I have been banging on about this for ages, not everyone can afford the best 4wd, or the mad van, you rwo have earned so much Mum and Dad respect with this approach.....

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! We are pretty excited to make the van our own too, won’t be without its challenges but that’s part of the fun ☺️

  • @annetterussell1609
    @annetterussell1609 Год назад +23

    What a great choice for your family. Finally, a family that looks at things practically, not how much money it is!! Love how the kids get their own room 😅

  • @sandrewadventures
    @sandrewadventures Год назад +16

    Well done! I would keep the wood panel, easy to maintain. Concentrate on the battery system and suspension. All the best!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you!

    • @davidgirdham1439
      @davidgirdham1439 Год назад +1

      Got that might not be latest look but like you said easy to maintain

    • @AlliOopsadaisy
      @AlliOopsadaisy Год назад +3

      Gotta agree on this, 'if it ain't broke, don't fix it', I cant see anything wrong with it except the daggy couch.

    • @thebigw3377
      @thebigw3377 Год назад +2

      Agree leave the wood paneling

  • @mkchivo
    @mkchivo Год назад +15

    Wow what a shock this was, thinking all you tubers always go bigger and better but you guys went the opposite way.
    You guys are the real travelers of Australia, well done I’m so happy for you guys. Beers 🍻 are on me when we cross paths traveling. 😊

  • @thelapyear
    @thelapyear Год назад +8

    Saw the decals and immediately knew the era. Ours is 2009 and has the brown. I've done plenty of mods to ours. Lithium solar and all that. We've kept the 3 way as it works quite well. I guess if you could go completely gas free it might be worth swapping it out. Otherwise ours works well. We're currently on n our second lap with this van and the previous owner did one too. First mod I did to ours was swap all the lights to led. You can get leds for all the fittings even for those big fluro ones you have. Anyway look forward to seeing the mods and more adventures. Cheers guys keep up the good work. I know how time consuming the editing is and appreciate the effort you are putting in!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you so much!
      Appreciate the great tips!

  • @lexmacdonald6505
    @lexmacdonald6505 Год назад +3

    What a smart well though out choice. Showing everyone you can do this on a budget and it’s not about the gear you have but the experiences and memories you make. Make sure you document the face lift.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      We’ll be taking everyone along for the journey!

  • @geoffhunt6439
    @geoffhunt6439 Год назад +4

    I think it’s brilliant what you are doing, showing you don’t need to have a brand new van to travel this great country. Sure it’s an older van but it looks good and has all the comforts of home. Well done.

  • @davidburchett6887
    @davidburchett6887 Год назад +2

    LOVE your new van, getting a bit sick of more and more videos of bigger better flasher equipment and vans that are unattainable for the average family. Really proud of your decision

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! New flash vans are great and we would love one but just wasn’t going to happen on our budget!

    • @davidburchett6887
      @davidburchett6887 Год назад

      Really enjoy your channel, no pretence at all. And I’m probably jealous of people that have a $150000 van🤣. Our whole setup cost us about $77000 completely off grid, not new by any means but we’re really happy with it. Can’t wait to see what you do to your new setup.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      So are we to be honest! Like we say we’d love the expensive rig but just not achievable right now!

  • @lorettacopland7887
    @lorettacopland7887 Год назад +12

    I had a feeling you were going for a second hand caravan, & I think that's awesome! You guys are fantastic for showing other families how it can be done and that you don't need all those bells & whistles like some of those other content creators have. Thanks for keeping it real.❤

  • @kimgunnell8218
    @kimgunnell8218 Год назад +5

    What you guys are doing is great I believe it's what lots of people are wanting to see I get sick of watching people come out with these big flash Van's and new cars you guys rock.
    Can knot wait to see what you do.

  • @neshculi
    @neshculi Год назад +2

    Well done, at last someone normal with a budget in mind. Thank you. Great van.

  • @debbielaakso1115
    @debbielaakso1115 Год назад +4

    This will be some great (and relevant) content coming up. I love your decision to keep things "real". We have Simplicity suspension under our Kokoda and its a bullet-proof, straight tracking and real "load-sharing" system that keep the load under any articulation shared over both wheels. Haven't done real corrugations yet, but the roads in NSW the past week must be close to the worst hammering its gotten in 5 years of travel. The build serial number is stamped onto the centre section plate on the drivers side - quote this number to the people at N.P. Hauffe and Co and they can tell you the build date and rating and the bearing numbers and dust seal numbers you need for spares (without having to strip a wheel and bearing set just to find out. They sell spares as well and can mail a spare set to you, and any bearing joint will have the bearings and seals anyhow.). And boy the bearings are huge! As for the 3-way fridge - we love ours. You can run out of battery capacity off grid and start to worry about your compressor fridge contents (like you already have done), but you will never panic with 2 x gas bottles and a 3-way running on gas. Probably keep it and see how you like the versatility (to save some money), and if it doesn't suit, replace it with a compressor fridge. Our 3 way hasn't missed a beat in 5 years and works very well. Love the vids guys - all the very best to the family - Debbie and Matti Laakso

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Wow so much info!! Thanks so much this is all very helpful!

    • @paulhardie9450
      @paulhardie9450 Год назад

      @@nowornever_aus for the price of a new fridge you could buy another 300ah lithium and smaller inverter and run the 3way fridge at night of the battery saving gas for when you need it , Keep it if it works !

  • @joannerudge720
    @joannerudge720 Год назад

    this is fantastic, showing other families travelling is achievable. Our children have grown now but we have had some great adventures when they were younger without any flash gear. Safe travels.

  • @OFFTRACK4X4OZ
    @OFFTRACK4X4OZ Год назад +7

    Love it guys, glad you are keeping it real for the rest of us. Showing that you don’t need the latest and greatest is a nice change from everyone else. Can’t wait to see your adventures

  • @kezzasmitty4125
    @kezzasmitty4125 Год назад

    Yes! Finally something different, we were a bit over everyone getting bigger and bigger, more expensive vans and cars. Thanks for providing something refreshing!! Good luck with the renos, we will be tuning in for sure.

  • @celiabonifacio3912
    @celiabonifacio3912 Год назад +5

    Best decision ever, love it, so much space!!! I would get a stick on splash back (Kmart or Bunnings) and a different bench top. Paint the walls white and upholsterer the lounge. That’s it, looks amazing 🤩

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks Celia!!

    • @kathrinecaruana3845
      @kathrinecaruana3845 Год назад

      Congratulations guys. So much space. It’s brilliant. All I would do is , hubby is a chippy too. I would send the doors to be 2 packed to your colour. Paint the solid panels . New splash back and bench tops. It looks great guys . Great vids ❤

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you!

  • @nikkicowdell1627
    @nikkicowdell1627 Год назад

    Congratulations guys our van was 2012 it was brown sometimes you have to step back be humble and still have the ability to travel . Well done

  • @peterwalker2920
    @peterwalker2920 Год назад

    We had the simplicity suspension setup on our 2015 Opal dirt reader and it was excellent, a real load sharing setup. No troubles on the Oodnadatta track and the fine as well as plenty of other gravel roads.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      That’s great feedback on it to hear! Cheers!

  • @sonjaparkin9920
    @sonjaparkin9920 Год назад +2

    We’ll done congratulations on your new van can’t wait to see what you do to it

  • @Svengali_Fishing
    @Svengali_Fishing Год назад

    Already loved you guys..just been confirmed as the best modern day you tube travelers!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Haha thank you!! 🙌🏼😁

    • @Svengali_Fishing
      @Svengali_Fishing Год назад

      Seriously awesome choice, you have read the room perfectly on this one

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks so much! We really appreciate it ☺️

  • @JonLucas-lk2gj
    @JonLucas-lk2gj Год назад +3

    You guys always make such honest and down to earth content,and have now taken it to another level,can't wait to see more,bringing caravaning back to a more realistic level,I wish you all the best.

  • @bevstott4904
    @bevstott4904 Год назад +2

    Wow finally someone not going to a flash upgraded van. Like you say Solar Priority. Would also look at a DO35 tow hitch to make it better to tow. Inside do the upholstery & benches, then travel in it for a while, brown wood might grow on you (easy to clean with kids too). Can't wait to see what you do, happy travels.

  • @daniel308d
    @daniel308d Год назад

    We brought a $25,000 Jayco 22 foot spent 10g on it, then spent the money we saved done a 10,000 km trip, so good to see somebody else not spending big money on a brand-new van 👍👍👍

  • @tyrongower
    @tyrongower Год назад

    We just bought an old similar (smaller) van as well. We have done a mini reno, build a new queen bed and a couple of bunks, 12/240v and painted the whole thing inside. Some nice light paint with modern accent colours makes a huge difference. Just be carefull if you start dismanting things you can end up going down a rabbit hole. And everthing is attached to the wall from the outside so if you want to remove something you will need to patch holes. You can also use something like the Duluxe reno range to paint the benchtops. We love our little Jayco Freedom, so light and the whole setup has cost about 15% of a new van

  • @sharynnollnoll5795
    @sharynnollnoll5795 Год назад +1

    We have a 2009 Bushtracker we bought a few years ago, I reckon the older vans were built tougher any way. The suspension is great, so simple and Simplicity is a great company to talk to with any questions.
    You’ll have to weigh your solar panel to make sure you don’t eat up too much of your payload.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Great to know! We’ll be keeping an eye on every kg we add!

  • @derekclements5682
    @derekclements5682 Год назад +2

    you guys are so normal great to see your not like most of the other youtubers getting a brand new van every 6 months. your showing people what its really like to travel australia and have fun.

  • @KerriHancock-o6r
    @KerriHancock-o6r Год назад

    It's a really nice van. I couldn't care less what colour decor it is. It looks super comfortable and spacious that's all that matters. Well done guys😀

  • @beetee1878
    @beetee1878 Год назад +1

    In this throwaway society it is fantastic to see you all go for an older van. Looking forward to seeing the reno videos.

  • @denisemarriott6424
    @denisemarriott6424 Год назад

    Well done on keeping it real for all us average joes!! Good on you !!!

  • @dougjones1000
    @dougjones1000 Год назад

    Good on you guys getting an older van. I have a Roadstar, same vintage with the Simplicity suspension and heavy chassis. Suspension is brilliant, maintenance free and tows like a dream. Handles the roughest tracks as long as you drive to conditions. Keep the woodgrain. I was going to paint mine when I got it, now it has grown on me and I love it. I've got bigger wheels and tyres, lifts the van a bit and looks great.
    I'd recommend you concentrate your monies on solar and battery setup. Cheers.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! Great to hear from others with similar set ups!
      Cheers!

  • @judithtaylor6916
    @judithtaylor6916 Год назад

    Watching the video for the 2nd time. Don't change the timber. Save it and put the money towards your solar/travels etc. Can always decorate the soft furnishings with a lighter colour.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you for the suggestions! Can’t wait to show the final product!

  • @beverleydryland1146
    @beverleydryland1146 Год назад

    I'd take out all up top cupboards to lighten the inside
    Looking forward to watching your economic and frugal refresh

  • @katherineporter2654
    @katherineporter2654 Год назад

    We had a Kingdom van with the exact same layout a few years ago and I loved it. I would paint the cupboards as you have mentioned, reupholster the lounge and put some new laminate down for the floor. You will to recognise it once you have done that. I think you are making a great choice you will show us you don’t need the $100k van or the $150k vehicle. It doesn’t matte r what we have we still get out there to the same places. Can’t wait to see the changes.

  • @JPMowing-v2m
    @JPMowing-v2m Год назад +1

    Great to see a realistic and sensible decision to keep doing what you love. Need more of it amd well done

  • @daviddelaney7239
    @daviddelaney7239 Год назад

    Hi guys, I really understand your sentiment in getting a pretty clean slate in the Retreat van. In regard to upgrading your solar, I would suggest you look at 24v panels and batteries and just have a converter to 12v for your lights and other such items. You will find your cabling can then be much lighter. Take a look at what Wild Touring did in their new Willow van re 24v. Cheers, David

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thanks David!

    • @daviddelaney7239
      @daviddelaney7239 Год назад

      The 24v enables all your new cabling to be of lower gauge which cuts your costs a bit…..but you probably knew that.

  • @timmiller508
    @timmiller508 Год назад

    Wonderful news about the caravan I’m sure you’ll have many wonderful more memories to share.
    Wishing you all a Happy and safe Easter.
    Looking forward to seeing you back on the road.

  • @robertarmbruster5650
    @robertarmbruster5650 Год назад

    I guess you guys know what you want and what works for you. The bit I don't understand is you had a new high tech Gator X van, why not simply do a bit of work to refresh it for the next adventure. BTW the new van with Simplicity load sharing single axle dual; wheel system does seem very capabale for off road use. I see in their add they are using a newish Nova caravan. Coromal had a similar axle stability suspension set up to what you have now only I think it actually had dual axles. We just lost our old poptop to the hail storm we had in Wishart, Mansfield, Mt Gravatt on 14th February, we had that old van for over a decade and loved it but the pressed aluminium sheeting is like tissue paper and even small hail will dent it easily. Lucky we ordered our new caravan in early December 2021, it's not far off now. Get a caravan repairer, a very knowledgable operator like John George at Caravan Repairs and Service in Underwood to have a look to make sure you have no rotten timbers in the frame. He will be pressure testing our new van to make sure it has no leaks. My only criteria for our new van was that it must be a composite panel construction, now these are not fool proof either if they leak, the panels will delaminate so it is imperative that there are no leaks. Congratulations on your new adventures, we hope it all goes really well for you.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks mate! If we had of spend the money on the gator x upgrading it to where we wanted to be we would have no money!

  • @leannegwyther476
    @leannegwyther476 Год назад

    Well done, you can put your own touches to it. It feels homely. We travel with our dogs no problems. One dog sleeps at the base of our bed and the other one near fridge and ensuite.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! Good to know it’s doable with the dogs!

  • @sharencameron5758
    @sharencameron5758 Год назад

    I think you are both great, I love the fact you are show casing you don’t need $$$$$ for your set up, I would probably just change the brown to white , and look at keeping rest , save bit of money on upholstery, cannot wait to see end results.

  • @wing-itoffroad7841
    @wing-itoffroad7841 Год назад

    Great choice 👍 looking forward to spicing it up videos to come..

  • @TBC9189
    @TBC9189 Год назад +1

    Cannot wait to see what you do with the van. Much more relatable than going out and buying a new one. Looking forward to the new episodes. 😊

  • @freespirit_traveller_australia
    @freespirit_traveller_australia Год назад +3

    This is great. Sometimes, it can get tiring of seeing everyone doing the same and getting expensive new vans. I'm looking forward to seeing how you update it. I would defo paint it lighter and change the bench tops. Love the separate toilet and shower setup. How exciting!!! ❤

  • @robvh3246
    @robvh3246 Год назад

    hi there, what a surprise !! ... well done and a great decision

  • @meganmooney2818
    @meganmooney2818 Год назад

    Love new van! Paint walls a light white/ off white. Vinyl floorboard flooring. Take out glass panel on cupboards replace with rattan. Tic tac tiles for splashback. Do-up if you want new handles on cupboards Reupholster seating. Will be a new van 👍
    We're currently doing up our 2nd old van absolutely love diy!! Have fun!!

  • @Foolish_Paul_Australia
    @Foolish_Paul_Australia Год назад

    Yes this was a surprise. 😮 But it is a pleasant surprise.🙂 I'm looking forward to following your build. 🤓

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Glad your pleased mate!!

    • @Foolish_Paul_Australia
      @Foolish_Paul_Australia Год назад

      @@nowornever_aus More to the point, I'm glad you're pleased. 🙂 It will certainly suit the whole family (including dogs) and it is a wonderful platform to build on (eg: battery/solar systems). So yeah, I'll be watching with interest. 😀

  • @thebigw3377
    @thebigw3377 Год назад +1

    Terrific 👍 I get fed up with the big budget rigs - justs gets out of hand

  • @enduroslug1317
    @enduroslug1317 Год назад +1

    This is the best. Honestly glad you guys didn't go all out like everyone else. Can't wait for the all the mod videos. Congrat guys

  • @jamesfox653
    @jamesfox653 Год назад

    Congrats guys on on the purchase of Bertha. Our van has 5 tanks. One is for grey water, 3 are for non potable water and one is solely for drinking water. Maybe you could reconfigure your tanks so you have one solely for drinking water, say two for non potable water and a grey water tank. We have simplicity load sharing suspension and it is awesome. Almost no maintenance required. It’s bomb proof. Good choice. Will be interested to see what you do regarding power. Min 600 amp/hr lithium and 900 solar. 3000 inverter then you can run the aircon and the fridge and still have some capacity left over. Enjoy your content.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! Will definitely look into tank options like that!

  • @luckycountrytravellers6488
    @luckycountrytravellers6488 Год назад

    Awesome! love the big girl. We’re excited to watch the progress, go wild guys.

  • @vf1000f2
    @vf1000f2 Год назад

    Hi we have the same suspension in our Explorex van. Did the Gibb last year and it went well.
    Only problem we had was when you are trying to level we had to put a leveller under the back wheel and drive up on to it as far as we could go then put a leveller under the front wheel and drive forward. We are looking for higher levellers. As you know raising one wheel will not raise the van. Looking forward to the upgrade. We have 3x200ah lithium batteries but only 600watts of solar on the roof we need another 400 for this size battery system but only have the roof space for 150watts so are looking at a compact wind generator so we can charge the batteries up a night also.
    Deb &Terry

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks for the info!! I figured that might be the case with levelling the van!
      Cheers!

  • @wendylim1936
    @wendylim1936 Год назад

    Thank you for showing us viewers your new caravan. Well suited for your family of four. The design is nice too. Look forward to watching your family next adventure with the new caravan. I only came across your channel today. So far I’ve only watched, besides this one, the video about your family journey across the Nullarbor and I do find it quite interesting.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! We can’t wait to get in the road again, hopefully in the hit too distant future! 😊

  • @mickp10
    @mickp10 Год назад

    Congratulations. Thanks for being real, honest, and that you don't need a 150k van. Can't wait to see your journey in your new van/home.

  • @kerryferrari226
    @kerryferrari226 Год назад +1

    Nice to see videos that reflect the reality for most people on a budget and not big influencers who are all about shoving brands down your throat with $200,000+ rigs let alone the $250,000 gas guzzling vehicle that are out of reach for the majority of people. Can’t wait to see the transformation and the travels with the dogs. Congratulations guys, it’s a lovely van that I’m sure you will make your own 🍾🥂💕

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you! Will definitely put our own touch to it and can’t wait to share it!

  • @KeithRedmond-t9m
    @KeithRedmond-t9m Год назад

    We love following you guys!
    Really looking forward to seeing what you do to Bertha. Most importantly you keep us informed with the true costs to be-able to set yourself up for travel.
    Look forward to following your journey.

  • @Scott-fc2lz
    @Scott-fc2lz Год назад +1

    Well done! This what makes you so down to earth! The van looks in such good condition! Can't wait to come along with your new journey! Your last journey was great! Thanks

  • @deirdrefisher2773
    @deirdrefisher2773 Год назад

    Love your logic and attitude to get others out doing the same.
    I also would concentrate on power supply and Remember the panels will weigh a bit if you put to many up.
    We also have a Retreat ( which we love) but the first thing I’d do is re- silicon the lot. ( you can’t use normal silicon you can buy it from a caravan repairer) We’ve been told they are known for leaking. Ours was no exception unfortunately at 2 yr old we discovered it and out of warranty 😢. Sometimes I wish we did an old van up that way you know you’ve fixed stuff.
    Look forward to following you reno, Caravan Adventure Aus have done a wonderful job with their van over the years and they take it everywhere.
    Safe travels, enjoy.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you very much! Lots of great tips for us there!

  • @kimjones299
    @kimjones299 Год назад +1

    This is THE BEST video I have watched in such a long time.
    Just get out there!!!!
    The actual timber is really good as it shows zero dirt and kid marks and I agree with changing the couch colour fabric and bench tops.
    Get rid of the concertina blinds for midge proof ones and love the separate toilet and shower.
    You won’t know yourselves with all that room.
    So happy for you all and hope to see you on the road one day.
    PS: levelling up is not that hard but I cheat and use our ensuite door and which way it rolls as my levelling app side to side(you don’t have that though) but it won’t take long to figure out. ❤️ accept the challenge Erin 🤣🤣

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you!!
      That’s a very clever way of levelling the van!!

    • @kimjones299
      @kimjones299 Год назад

      Haha only been on the road full time for 8 weeks and you do what is easiest.
      I was cracked on a compressor fridge but ended up with a three way and pretty happy with ours so far but then it’s a new one so maybe that is also a consideration too. It’s all a try and see sort of thing I suppose. 😊

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Couldn’t agree more! You need to get out there to see what you really need/want, that’s why we’ve got a pretty good idea of what we want to change already!

    • @kimjones299
      @kimjones299 Год назад

      @@nowornever_aus totally agree. Just do you and enjoy the ride 🍺🍺

  • @alanpartington86
    @alanpartington86 Год назад

    Hey mate, nice choice of van. We have a 24ft 2011 Retreat Magnetic that we are living in full time ourselves, they do tow extremely well. There's lots of real estate for solar, can easily fit over 1000w up there and still have space. Some other tips we have done with ours:
    - Picnic table I removed the locks and used tonneau cover elastic loops so you don't need a key each time. The plastic part the holds the loop just covers the existing holes.
    - Watch those front boots, ours leaked and I think I saw a bit of brown water stain residue in your one. I water tested mine and it gathers in the bottom of the seals and flows over and into the boot. I had PM Canvas in Perth make me a cover in a sail track and again some more tonneau cover loops which keeps the rain out.
    - Check the size of your brakes. Ours had 12 inch brakes (I think yours might too) and all the other gear (including 6" chassis, chain sizes ect) that made it eligible for an ATM upgrade. We gained nearly 500kgs in payload so its now 3.5t instead of 3040kgs. We did this and now I am the manufacturer on the new compliance plate
    - Those windows have some sort of bitumen seal or something around them, be mindful of silicone especially re sealing before you take the fridge out as that will have to come out through the window. We still have the 3 way 220L, It does struggle a little on the hot days, but not to the extent we would warrant the cost of replacing it. Some extra computer fans on the back and inside do help a lot. We go through a bottle of gas once every 2 weeks or so, seems a bit but its like 3- 4 years of gas to the cost of a new fridge. We also use the excess solar and inverter throughout the day and flick the storage hot water to power and heat water while the suns out via inverter. If the batteries are full that solar is just going to waste otherwise.
    - We had to replace our toilet and shower hatches recently from UV damage. Might pay to check yours. Also check and reseal silicone on roof.
    If you don't mind a few running repairs here or there, they are a great solid van, I also like the fibreglass showers (not plastic). Good to see you are showing everyone it can be done on a budget and don't need hundreds of thousands to do it!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Mate some amazing tips and advice there!! Thank you!

  • @mariaannetts9419
    @mariaannetts9419 Год назад

    Well thank you...... That is the best thing ever and you will make a lot of people out there be happier now. There are so many different ways to travel and I've seen people sleeping in cars at the caravan park, and to all of you who brave the whether in a flimsy tent..... 3 cheers for you. It's all about a happy heart ♥. I'm looking forward to what you do now.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      So so true! No matter what you travel in we all sit around the same camp fire!

  • @julio93961
    @julio93961 Год назад

    We’ll done guys, love it. Maybe you started a new trend.

  • @dannywright8211
    @dannywright8211 Год назад

    Good on ya guys , go 24v solar with domestic panels you won't regret it

  • @tainbartholomew
    @tainbartholomew Год назад +1

    Great work guys!

  • @jo_clarke1960
    @jo_clarke1960 Год назад

    I watch now and then and understand the budget constraints, so I was expecting a 2nd hander but, one that size, ah no! Didn't think it would be possible keeping same vehicle.
    Solar gonna b the expensive bit but interior, repaint and a lot of "market place" n the like for bits will hopefully keep cost down.
    Good on you for doing it the way you are, at least you're going to be out in that great country of yours. It's a different way to everyone else with their new vans and hopefully you do better for it as it will be the to see all the bells n Whistles not needed. Keen to watch the reno's 👍

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thank you!
      Love searching marketplace for the good deals!

  • @nzmarkb8713
    @nzmarkb8713 Год назад

    Wow, not what I was expecting
    Good on ya, can’t wait to see your next travels 👍👍

  • @coltimm
    @coltimm Год назад

    I think its great what you guys are doing, just be mind full of the weight, Enerdrive 200w panels are 15kg each, soon mounts up.put 5 on your roof and an MPPT charger, there is 100kg.

  • @aussiefarmer6012
    @aussiefarmer6012 Год назад

    Well done, it's in terrific condition. Makes perfect sense to buy used. Just a waste of money buying a new van when there are so many good used ones for sale like the one you purchased. The main thing is to get out and travel. Simplicity suspension is great and better than cruisermaster. Simplicity is proper load sharing which makes it better. I have simplicity on a trailer and cruisemaster on my 23 foot van. Go the simplicity!

  • @AlliOopsadaisy
    @AlliOopsadaisy Год назад +1

    Erin on the suspension 'Why are you telling me this?' Me on the suspension..ffwd.😂 Cool digs guys, cant wait to see it nice and pink inside🤣

  • @philoldfield648
    @philoldfield648 Год назад

    Great choice of van, Retreat have a remarkable reputation in building vans so well done. I would like to make a comment about the suspension, i have a 2008 Regent 21' van with the Simplicity suspension seriously it tows like a dream now after a wheel alignment which I thoroughly recommend before you start your travels.

  • @nickvm4651
    @nickvm4651 Год назад +2

    Great video’s and just down to earth people. Very relatable. Glad you are still on the road for us to follow. Learn a lot from your channel. Thank you

  • @georgewinters3191
    @georgewinters3191 Год назад

    I think you guys are really smart, given where we are with the financial situation globally I see this a s a good choice. Someone said it’s a downgrade, what’s downgraded? You have the essentials your going to add solar and better battery capacity and a few other things and save $90-100k for the privilege of driving a “new” van. The view out the van is the same no matter how much it costs . You got a lotta van there and not as heavy as the newer ‘apartments on wheels’ ! ❤ it , 👍

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      So true! A lot of people have mentioned the “same view” and I absolutely love it!

  • @causewecan514
    @causewecan514 Год назад

    Yes... white wash the timber & the stick on vinyl splashback... maybe some new handles. Check the floor under the shower area... our shower use to leak through the drain hole into the floor under the shower in our Retreat & we just had to keep resealing it every couple of months. Good luck!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thank you! We were aware of some water damage when we bought it so have checked and will continue to check it regularly after we fix up the previous damage!

  • @timcroft8633
    @timcroft8633 Год назад +1

    White wash the timber, spend more coin on the 12v set up and diesel

  • @TheDucstar
    @TheDucstar Год назад

    Well done guys, nice to see a realistic view of how to travel without trying to keep up with the Jones' so to speak. Enjoy the journey for it's own pleasure, not the flashy gear at any cost that is becoming the theme of many yt channels.

  • @scale2tail
    @scale2tail Год назад

    Well done. Looks fantastic. It's big. We are looking at something small at the moment. Also, looking at a topper tinnie. We are a little excited. You have to get a tinnie. Once again. Well done👌

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thank you! Yes another Ronnie is high on the cards!

  • @ruffenuff9017
    @ruffenuff9017 Год назад +1

    Fantastic guys. Well done on keeping it real. Families DO have budgets to work with and it’s great to see you showing it for what it is. I’m looking forward to seeing the build up of this beauty.

  • @outahereadventures
    @outahereadventures Год назад +2

    Can not wait to see how you both go when you have to level it up, I’m sure I’ll be laughing with you… 100% agree that you don’t have to spend big dollars to travel… looking forward to following your story.. congrats guys

  • @quytrinh271
    @quytrinh271 Год назад

    Congrats guys, love the idea of going with what suits you and not what suits youtube life. With the amount of roof real estate, you would get a monster 12v setup. Would recommend Extreme Auto Caravan and Camping for an awesome offgrid setup.

  • @janiceatkinson5112
    @janiceatkinson5112 Год назад +1

    How refreshing to see this. More affordable and you will get your solar as well. Good on you for taking on this project. Good luck with it all.

  • @colinl9018
    @colinl9018 Год назад

    Nice practical van in good nick. I would keep the 3-way fridge, less stress worrying about how much battery juice you have.
    (even with new panels) they don't use a heap of gas either. New LED lights for sure. Are you going to put a bike carrier on the back?

  • @morepawstravels
    @morepawstravels Год назад

    Love the new van guys!
    We’re rebuilding a (previously) mould ridden 14’, Supreme Getaway from 1994… but we’re only accommodating two adults and two Samoyeds.
    I’ll be working daily via StarLink so our teeny tiny little 14’ poptop… will have 1000w of solar on the roof. (under bed air con works great in such a small space)
    Oh and we’re towing it with a 2001 105 Series Landcruiser…

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thank you!
      That sounds like a great set up!! That’s a lot of solar for a small roof space!!

    • @morepawstravels
      @morepawstravels Год назад

      @@nowornever_aus - I took a note from Keelan and Sarah's book. Put the air con under the bed and devote all the (small) roof space to solar

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Great idea!

  • @debramaloney9334
    @debramaloney9334 Год назад

    Just found your channel. Excellent, keep it real. So tied of the other You Tubers showing off their $150,000 plus over the top caravans. Keep your channel normal for families. So happy that you admitted you cannot afford the massive over the top Van and huge upgraded truck to pull the Van. Looking forward to viewing your previous videos as well. Enjoying your natural modest family.

  • @edwinderooy243
    @edwinderooy243 Год назад

    Hi, we have a similar van, 2011. Ours had rocker suspension that had worn out. I retrofitted simplicity suspension the same as yours to ours. Works fine. We have the brown interior as well, looking forward to see what you guys do.

  • @neilocoop
    @neilocoop Год назад

    We live in Katherine NT and one the same came into our park today.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Nice! I hadn’t noticed them much before we bought ours!

  • @Livin_Like_Kings_
    @Livin_Like_Kings_ Год назад

    Love the van, we also opted for an old 2003 Bushtracker Caravan instead of going new, you can definitely upgrade an old van for way less than buying new. We’re planning on doing cape this year as well maybe we’ll cross paths. 😊

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      We love your bushtracker! Great caravans they are!

    • @Livin_Like_Kings_
      @Livin_Like_Kings_ Год назад

      @@nowornever_aus they’re definitely made tough.

  • @ourtripsaroundoz
    @ourtripsaroundoz Год назад

    The real world experience … love this ❤

  • @anitaneat1010
    @anitaneat1010 Год назад +1

    I absolutely love what you have decided on doing. I think this steers the thinking away from the disposable culture. I actually liked my first van that was $63000 as a new 19ft 6in semi off road New Age van more than our current off road gator that we also bought new for $76000. And I honestly think that if I ever changed our van again I'd probably go second hand and simply update it. I love my gator and hopefully we don't need to change it but I really think that you guys have made a fantastic choice and it's something that not a lot of other content creators are doing presently. I'm really looking forward to the new season following your journey.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      Thank you so much. We def learned a lot in our first lap and doing it in a new caravan has its advantages but we are super excited to see how far we can push this one too!

  • @lizgriffin806
    @lizgriffin806 Год назад

    Oh my god!!! That's excellent, you'll love the extra room for sure, can't wait for the new adventures to begin 🎉

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Neither can we!! Lots of work to do first but hopefully out there again in the next few weeks!! Hope you guys are well! X

  • @garryhern2908
    @garryhern2908 Год назад

    Solar is good,A lot more weight,Do you use a generator,love the new van,If you don’t need to worry about money ,you enjoy your travels,

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks you! We prefer not to use a generator for a few different reasons

  • @lynschostakowski8819
    @lynschostakowski8819 Год назад

    It looks great inside. Lick of paint inside and it will look great. It's very spacious inside. Great choice.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      So much space! We aren’t going to know ourselves after coming from an 18ft to a 24ft 😂

  • @VetinaVan
    @VetinaVan Год назад

    Great idea guys, its less about the stuff and more about the travel!! See you on the road.. 👍😀👍🍻

  • @ralph04ification
    @ralph04ification Год назад

    I'd keep the gas fridge, they really don't use that much gas. They also work great on 40+ degree days, just remember to switch over from 12volt as soon as you pull up for the day. Enjoy it.

  • @causewecan514
    @causewecan514 Год назад

    Now this is a game changer... we were tiring of everyone updating & buying expensive vans... you guys can show everyone how it can be done without spending all the life savings... Thank you!
    In 1989 we travelled Australia in a beat up V8 HZ Kingswood & a 16ft Franklin caravan. It proves you DON'T need to have the best of everything!
    Congrats on the pre-owned Retreat!

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад +1

      So true you don’t need the biggest and best! Also I would absolutely love to travel in a v8 kingswood wagon!!

  • @Mambey
    @Mambey Год назад

    I like the old woody look better than the newer ones.

  • @michelleE-k7v
    @michelleE-k7v Год назад +2

    Don’t think your crazy at all ! Congratulations guys . What you’ve done makes sense . I’d much rather have the money to keep traveling than have an expensive van in the driveway that I can’t afford to take any where . Can’t wait to see what you do with her . I kind of like the cupboards but I’d definitely change all the rest of it .

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks! Good to know we haven’t lost it 😵‍💫

  • @fredambrozy
    @fredambrozy Год назад

    I’m loving this, my partner and I are just starting a Reno on an older caravan too, so I’ll be watching to see what you are doing 😊

  • @hapninemptynesters
    @hapninemptynesters Год назад

    Love it Guys! It’s great to show everyone that you don’t need the latest and greatest to caravan! Can’t wait to see the adventures you get up to in this!

  • @christophergear7247
    @christophergear7247 Год назад

    You’re right,you don’t have to be flash. But one thing we found out that Venetian blinds are a pain . My wife insisted on them and was the first to want to back to curtains. It’s good to see a young family out there doing it! Looking forward to seeing what you do with the van. Regards Chris from W.A.

    • @nowornever_aus
      @nowornever_aus  Год назад

      Thanks so much! Good to know about the venetians! We haven’t decided what we are doing with them yet!

  • @tonyburton8925
    @tonyburton8925 Год назад

    Well done. Finally a channel aimed at the average Joe wanting to explore on a reasonable budget. Can't wait for the changes to the van.