Urban Van Life: Time for Some Changes
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 6 фев 2025
- Support This Channel: / elementvanlife
Stickers: www.elementvanl...
Instagram: @elementvanlife
Hey everyone! I’m Nate. I live the van life full time out of a Nissan NV200 self built camper conversion. In this video I rearrange the van and discuss some future changes that I'm planning to make to the camper conversion. Please like, subscribe, and feel free to ask any questions below.
Pop Top by GTRV
www.gtrv.com
============================================
Inergy Link: glnk.io/p5q/el...
Use Promo Code "ELEMENT" for Best Available Pricing
VIDEO GEAR
Camera - amzn.to/2MfTKEl
Main Lens - amzn.to/2NYV1lg
Long Range Lens: amzn.to/2XLvCLT
Wide Angle Lens - amzn.to/2lPCpHb
E-EF Adapter - amzn.to/2MmryQe
New Drone - amzn.to/2mKFGYF
Old Drone - amzn.to/2DlvJrE
Microphone - amzn.to/2rBBrPM
Mini Tripod - amzn.to/2AZWgu9
Laptop - amzn.to/2T0xdf9
VAN BUILD GEAR
Solar Panel - amzn.to/2TlYGMD
Solar Generator: glnk.io/p5q/el...
Mattress - amzn.to/2Utni2k
Trunk Liner - amzn.to/2UmzuSh
Insulation - amzn.to/2UpSu2D (10' x 5' Roll)
500 lb Counter Hinges - amzn.to/2EIpdcH
12v Fridge - amzn.to/2rC2Wca
More Gear - www.elementvanl...
Using my Amazon link is a great way to support Element Van Life without costing you anything!
AMAZON LINK:
www.amazon.com...
============================================
Your intros are so ridiculously beautiful that often I think I’m watching a tourist/travel advertisement. And then I realize it’s your video. Amazingly videography skills, Nate! ✌🏼😊
I had a relative who installed home security alarm systems. He told me an statistic in his industry: over 60% of thieves are deterred from entering homes that have signs and stickers of the security alarm company posted. Maybe consider installing an alarm on the van and put stickers on the windows to keep creepers or potential thieves from messing with the van. Love the content. Keep it up!
A problem with tankless water heaters is a van is getting correct water pressure, the water tank freezing, and the water being too hot. Also at house pressure of 50 psi, the typical heater is too hot for a shower at anything over the lowest setting, and that's with heating cold water from underground piped taps not room temperature van water. The lower the water pressure, the slower volume moves, the hotter the water. How do you get 50 psi in a van? A compressor? A scuba tank? Shower outside or deal with water inside the van and a wet moldy winter?
There's going to be a lot of trial and error trying to get a shower to work.
Alternative, black solar pipe and gravity shower? These are cold in the winter.
Alternative, buy a handheld spray tank that can hold hot water. Heat the water in the tank and spray yourself with it.
Alternative, gym shower membership.
I want to work in a big city but I cannot afford to live in one. These van life videos are a big confidence boost for me. Maybe I can make my dreams come true through this lifestyle.
I made mine from reflective bubble wrap and then finished them in black gorilla tape....perfect...indestructible and no light emmitance
Hi there, can you explain better , thanks
Tilting your solar panel 45 degrees would help increase power this winter. 60 degrees is the correct angle for the solstice in SF. Of course then you'd always have to try to park in a particular orientation so that the panel tilts to the south.
Just beautiful! And you still look so happy since your friend has been with you!
Put your clothes in packing cubes, they will fit in the area you have allocated and be organized and easier to access what you need. They are cheap on Amazon.
Bro...The intro was REALLY great! It's been great watching your production skills get increasingly more impressive over the years.
That must've been scary. Good for you for scaring him off! Wishing you well with the changes in store...
I'm in Nevada now, but was just in San Francisco!! Joined a caravan, and feel at home now. Hope to see you somewhere someday. Enjoy it all, Nate!
Hi Nate, greetings from NY. I moved into an apartment. I have been emptying my car and I can't believe how much stuff I had inside that car. I'm sure there are so many creative changes that you can make to upgrade your kitchen set up. I know you love to cook. I did not have a proper situation living in my car. I need a more adaptable vehicle like a van. It gets very cold in the winter in NY. I am glad to be indoors for a change. I think I want both lifestyles. For now, I am organizing what I have and waiting for an idea on what I want to do next. I can remember sleeping in my car while it was 38 degrees inside the car. I needed a heater. If it is not going to be comfortable than I can't do it another season. It takes money to create a van lifestyle. I'm glad you banged on your window. The guy deserved it.
The propane stove is an excellent idea and I think you'll be pleasantly surprised how warm it will keep your van during the winter just make sure you crack the window to let in fresh air. You're going to need a carbon monoxide protector for safety.
The dislikes must be from those peeking on your window lol
Cut out corrugated plastic (what yard signs are made of). You can buy it at Blick in big sheets & various colors. If you get a bright color like white or yellow, you'll still get light in, wo visibility.
Then you can use tiny neodymium magnets to keep the covers in place by sticking them to the metal of the door just barely blocking the covers of the window so they don't fall out.
PS: With a small modification you can use your backup camera as a always on security monitor, add a dash cam for both front and rear live security.
What is blick
@@calihustler08 It's an art supply store in the bay area. www. DickBlick .com
@@rvhome513 They're all over, there's a bunch here in the Chicagoland area too. I'll bet they're where ever you happen to find college campuses, businesses that have art type departments, and, generally non crafting (like Hobby Lobby, Joanne's, or Michaels customers) artistic type people.
I’ve been living in my van for week now I live in a Vauxhall combo it’s really small in the back I keep learning ways to improve my experience of living in my van everyday just need to save up for solar generator and a kettle
I have a hydro shot that I use as a shower basically it’s a battery operated jet wash but works good luck
I’ve had that happen to me too. Twice I’ve had a guy peek into my limo tinted windows trying to see what’s inside. I had to bang on the window. Scared the crap out of them.
I'd get out and confront that asshole
Potentially a dangerous move...never bring a baseball bat or a knife to a gun fight. Better to scare them and laugh when they run.
@@calihustler08 What David said, this guy got out of the passenger seat of the Mercedes, that means it would be 2 on 1, not 1 on 1. On top of that, you don't know if they're armed and what they're armed with.
Your videos make my day and you sold me on the NV200. I was almost set on the ProMaster City but after following your build and journey I'm pretty sure the NV is just what I want, pop-top and all. Thanks for keeping us inspired.
Glad you're okay
I think you should still install the netting on the ceiling of the van, right where the clothes are now. That way when you have guest you don't have to keep mowing around all your clothes and they will just be attached to the ceiling when you go to pop up the roof foe guest.
i got an nv200 too. i just got a thin white fabric-ish shower curtain and chopped out rear window shapes and glued magnets to em (6 for the bigger winow, 4 for smaller). they work great, take little space, and are easy.
It is time to get cameras and security system to cover the entire van. Lucky, he did not drive away your home.
Great opening sequence
i would suggest a blinking red leds on dash so some bad people may think you have a advanced security system, at least double front, rear dashcam is a must...
stay safe!
best wishes!
That intro was awesome !!😎😎😮😍
5 gal spring water bottle,w/hand pump,cheap to refill,at a walmart
We got a Primo brand hand pump at Lowe's for 10 bucks and refill the 5 gallon bottle at the local ice machine for $1.25. It's such an economical way to go if you want clean water that's not from a hose or faucet.
All your up grades sound good. I am going to go to the van build and try to get a better set up for my Element. Best to you!
Could you do a video specifically about surfing and van life? How you dry your wetsuit, how you secure your boards,etc.? thanks
Glad that situation didn't escalate. Seems like they were up to no good! Safety first! :)
Glad your safe! Prayers
Use brown paper shipping roll to make templates...easier to cut too!
Love to follow your journey Nate, been following since 2016 when I was in college
Wow! Just today someone peeked into my van from the rear with my back doors open and screening up. I was sitting in my car just next door eating a burger. I honked my horn. The guy looked at me and gestered "what is that?" I gestered back, "it's mine, move on!" He did. What if I hadn't been parked there? I usually park outside work in the parking lot where I can see my van! I leave my back doors open with a screening system for my cats. I can't believe some people just feel inclined to peek inside vehicles! So damned rude!! Glad I was there though.
I always look forward to your videos every Saturday morning while I drink my coffee
Nate this is going to be interesting how you put the remodel into action. But knowing you, you will do a great job. Do be careful as things aren't the way they used to be. Love the footage in the beginning of the video. Take care. See you in the next one.
On my van I took the cardboard templates, bought black felt at a fabric store got a can of spray adhesive covered the cardboard with the felt and had perfect window covers.
Awesome that you banged on the door and scared the shit out of the guy scoping out your stuff and trying to steal it. I hate people like that!
Sounds like your remodeling plans are awesome! I can't wait until it is all finished. You really do a lot with such a small space. I admire your ability to do so. At one time in my life I could, but now I have animals. That makes things difficult. Keep up the good work!
Ever thought about installing a 12v air siren with a toggle switch? Next time someone gets close to your van, you turn it on, should scare most people away.
Oh cool, I didn't know about those.
Train horn
Or an outside speaker like a police car...would have been funny to say "may I help you?" or scream or whatever, to the guy looking in the window.
I'm install on my RV a horn with different animals' songs ,it's fany.
Good changes. You may find with your new clothes storage location that using packing cubes makes finding what you want when you want it easier. Fresh water a great idea. I have a 6 gal jug in my van and I also have a 1 gal jug that I refill from it for easy drinking water access. Makes a huge difference! Saves money in the long run, too! I have a dometic fridge freezer and it works well, just sips the battery. You can often find a good one used on craigslist (or so I've heard) as they are pretty spendy upfront. Good luck! Glad to know about the instant water heater/showers--now I'm tempted. I'm just part time with a promaster, so no rush for me.
Please consult with the more experienced van lifers about the propane system. I recall you had a fire or near-fire with one of the iterations of your solar installation. The margin of error with propane might not be as forgiving. Best of luck with your plans.
There's no doubt that man had a plan to do something
Gotta try those Chinese diesel heaters,I have one,Works really Good,Real cheap ,safe heat.
A work in progress....the van.
Beautiful opening footage, Nate.
Perhaps some of those clear pouches to put your clothes in so they stay a little nicer and you can find what you want without taking everything out one at a time when trying to get something.
I love the intro. Can't wait to see the redo
You should get dash cams that record on motion
Nate, those cinematic shots were unreal man! Goodluck with the re-model
Your B-roll is stunning! very cinematic.
WOW, lots of changes! Good stuff, so I'm happy for you. I hope your kitchen remodeling goes smoothly.
you have a bed over your head. use the space where the Murphy bed is for your living space.
Sounds like some great plans. Amazing that you had that much extra storage space just by taking out the cushions for the loft area. I'm assuming that this is space with the loft closed? I'm sure you will enjoy the updates as much as your charming girlfriend, Shannon, and it is nothing short of endearing that you are willing to do your best to make it comfortable for the two of you. I've been married for over 37 years...trust me, this is a good sign.
Good luck with the new kitchen/shower build, would definitely up the comfort level! 🍀
I been watching these van dweller videos for a few years now. When I’m out there I see vans that are dwelling vans. The solar panels are a dead giveaway lol. Or the fantastic fan on the top. I always want to go check the van out and see how the setup is. But you know don’t wanna bother them. I’m tempted to do what that guy did to you lol. I want to see these setups in person.
Smash and grab is common in SF especially the tourist area, prob by gangs
Yep, and they drive very nice cars. 😡
Those guys were totally going to break in to your van
Check out the ENGEL MT45F COMBI. Yes it's big and expensive, but it is both a fridge and a freezer. They say "The Engel Swing motor compressor only draws 1~2 Amps per hour, 40% less than a traditional compressor." There's a lot of people who only buy Engel and plenty of videos on RUclips on that subject. I have seen people install their top-opening fridges directly below their kitchen counters, under a hinged kitchen counter panel, to save space.
You can go to Wal-mart and buy some under the bed storgae bags. There soft and light and you could put your cloths and stuff in to them and you could just pull them in and out with ease. I have seen other Van People store stuff in the above loft that way. Wouldn't damage anything up there either... That guy looking in was scary. Glad he ran away..Stay Safe.
Maybe you want to get the packing cubes for your clothes so it's easier to maneuver them...
Just a thought, plus you have a guest/girlfriend now. food for thought. PS you can get a few extra cubes/pcks for her as well...
I would keep the key fob handy. Hit the lock to beep the horn, or hitting remote start might have an interesting reaction, panic button if those don't work. Also cameras, they probably moved onto another crime or they were driving a stolen car. Video might help an investigator.
He was definitely looking to break in, that area is bad for break ins
Hi Nate, I'm sorry, can you give us a link of this tinting you installed on yours back window? That we can see from inside to outside but not from outside to inside ? Thanks a gain
Don’t forget about sleeping under a thermal blanket / frame contraption during those cold nights
Good upgrades for the home.
I enjoy watching your videos, especially of my home town, San Francisco. As you are probably aware, there may be substantially different climates on any given day, depending on the neighborhood. . Potrero Hill has some of the best weather, typically even better than the Mission and usually much better than Golden Gate Park. Knowing this may help with your solar collection.
Thank you for your presentations and keeping the dream alive.
i had my car broken in to at the park Friday the day you posted this.
i wish you had recorded it too
Sorry to hear that.
Hey Nate, check out ever shower. Portable and easy to use and reuse water to shower longer
Get some packing cubes for all your clothes. It would help to organize.
Might want to cut a piece of plywood a foot or foot and a half wide and put it under the mattress where bends to help firm it up. Not real thick but not real thin plywood so bends and doesn't feel like are on a hard board.
Get one of those 20 litre office drinks cooler cylinders.
Give yourself a week's supply between refills.
Creeper window watcher would have freaked me out!
God bless you!!
Hi Nate what's up man Those are some great plans I am going to be watching for sure Now for the Guy who was peering in and trying to just creep you out I would have gone out of my van and said Hello is their something I have that interest you
This lady was knocking on my truck, the second time she was like hello anybody there , real softly. I was thinking just let it go but then she knocked again like towards the front. I’m like hello can I help you she was like oh I have a baby with me and she was just entertaining him lol your adrenaline does get going though. I live on the Pennisula myself about 40 miles from SF
That happened me once at the beach but he was holding an infant baby. After a few time i opened the door on him and he immediately asked strangers to take a picture of him. I didn't know how to react but i scared the hell out of him. Strangers saw it too and were about to confront him.
You should use packing cubes
Check out the style that folds up and snaps. Not hard to make!
In San Diego someone watched me put bag in trunk because they popped two windows in front of many people to get that trunk open. Cost me 400 probably. Insurance covered the windows. Anyway, for those that don't know, breaking into cars to steal is legal in California. 97% of the time nobody gets arrested. Even if arrested it doesn't lead to jail time. So it's essentially legal. The only thing I don't miss about San Diego when I'm in NY is having to worry about my windows. I always have stuff in my car can't judge it all all the time. Surfboards, boogie boards, blankets hockey sticks rollerblades bags food pillows
awesome intro, very nice editing and videography, thanks for sharing
Sounds like you have found the right girl. You now know you smelled bad, need a kitchen so you can cook real food and curtains so you can? LOL Congratulations, it changed my world 20 years ago for the better and life got a lot more meaningful. Hope it's a start of something awesome for you.
Hey Nate, check out the Flame King two burner stove at Home Depot, only $80. It's worked out really well for my van & has the smallest dimensions of any!
That's the one I'm considering! Was it easy to setup?
@@ElementLife just cut a hole in my countertop, drawer below still works. You will need to get a pressure regulator- Home Depot had them near bbqs
Dude I like the little van!! My wife almost fell out of her chair on the. Creeper story!! Keep up the videos!!
They were going to bust a window most likely, to steal from you. He was just trying to make sure no one was in the van. I live in SF, these guys are all over.
I don't doubt what you say but do most criminals drive a new Mercedes? Well, maybe they stole that too.
Maybe you should keep old cell playing music when you park in California. And get window glass coverage on the insurance. Windows are like 400 to 500
It's situations like this why 100% stealth is a bad idea. I had too many people try to break in my car while I was sleeping. I make it obvious when you walk close. But stealth from far away.
What about saving up for a jackknife couch/bed? You might be able to find one in a junked RV.
Congrats on ur 50000.
great job scaring him!
This would be easier if you just bought a used motorhome. You would then have a shower and a water tank and all those accessories built in.
Having a high quality multi-channel wide angle dash camera system with remote access would give you more video when you're driving but also provide 24x7 360 degree surveillance of your area which could be accessed remotely over a mobile network. 180 and 360 degree cameras are becoming more affordable. If you cannot find something designed for automotive application most CCTV camera/DVR systems run off 12VDC and could be easily adapted.
When you finally get done with all of your mods and see how cramped it is after fitting it all in, you'll understand why people choose regular sized vans.
John Beckman It's doable in the Envy 200 if he gets the slat extensions. There is a couple-he is alot older and she is kind of goofy looking. Anyway, they live in a very small van like the envy and do really well. Just saying.
I wish you would have gone with a full size van. I enjoy your content and travels.
You should consider packing cubes for your clothes.
Loosely stuffing your clothes above looks like a bad idea. They'll shift and fall out easily during driving. Plus, looks annoying to find what you need (i.e., not easily accessable). Maybe put them in a plastic tub?
Had to laugh when you bumped the curtain rail down. I’ve finally got in the habit of keeping my head low enough when walking through in my van. Is a van build ever finished? I know I’m often thinking of changes I might make. I hope you do get a fridge with a freezer, so handy.
Hi Nate, I'm like your live steal, can you record a video next time to show us? Thanks
That is dangerous living in a van. Be careful and watch for people like that guy.
Why not splurge and get the van professionally done inside since its so new and you have the great pop top.
Would love to have seen that guy's face!!! lol
It's funny how life changes when you get a gf...
Luckily for him he's tall. If she's around 5 foot then she will probably adapt to any situation to keep him.
@@paladine6 your thinking too much about somebody's personal business weirdo
Note to self. Find a short girl for future vanlife
@@paladine6 You make it sound like Shannon is desperate. To 'keep him'? I'm pretty sure that her height had nothing to do with their relationship but more likely her personality and content of character did.
@@paladine6 That comes off as really creepy.
Are you making another calendar for next year, Nate?
I'm planning to!
Fantastic! I look forward to it. I'm very much enjoying this year's calendar. The October pic is trippy. Lol.