Benefits of a Dodge Grand Caravan as a Minivan Camper for VAN LIFE + Hidden Gems | Van Conversion
HTML-код
- Опубликовано: 16 фев 2023
- The benefits of choosing a Dodge Grand Caravan as a minivan camper conversion for van life, including some hidden gems that certain models have!
#vanconversion #vanlife #minivan #minivancamper #dodgegrandcaravan
See below for ways to support our adventures! Thanks for being here!
~ Send a “Super Thanks” on any one of our videos by clicking the heart $ on the same line as the thumbs up!
~ PayPal: paypal.me/dogmomdays
~ Venmo: @Amanda_Yantos
~ CashApp: $AmandaYantos
~ Become a “MEMBER!” / @adventuringwithamanda
~ Or purchase from one of our Amazon links below!
This is my 2018 Dodge Grand Caravan no-build minivan camper conversion. I travel full time with my Chihuahua. We’ve visited 34 states together in the continental US, and our home base is in Arizona.
Please note that by purchasing items from Amazon using our links, we may earn a small commission to help with our business expenses. Thank you! Xoxo Amanda & Wynston
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amazon Items by Category: (affiliate links)
Electronics and Power:
Bluetti EB70S Power Station: amzn.to/3JmEn6F
Bluetti PV200 Solar Panel: amzn.to/3yS8v8m
Jackery 240W Power Station: amzn.to/2IAG4DU
Rockpals 300W Power Station: amzn.to/3oDUKUj
Rockpals 100W Solar Panel: amzn.to/3rohetT
Portable Camping Fan: amzn.to/3ps6xVj
Onite USB Light Bulb: amzn.to/38z8s2I
Clothes:
Ororo Heated Jacket: ororo.refr.cc/amandayantos
Get Out Gear Down Puffy Blanket/Poncho: amzn.to/3UL0qJX
Food, Water and Cooking:
Portable Fridge F4C4TMP: amzn.to/3hWDxWi
Collapsible Sink With Drain: amzn.to/3y9gr26
MSR Pocket Rocket Camping Stove: amzn.to/3TsqcCI
Electric Water Dispenser: amzn.to/3GeKMma
Kuju Pour Over Coffee: amzn.to/3KBxRu8
Collapsible Tea Kettle: amzn.to/3t6DNSP
Collapsible bucket: amzn.to/3jRBeBt
Camping Utensils Kit: amzn.to/3Tp1XFd
GasOne Butane Stove: amzn.to/3DRJRGO
Pet Items:
Collapsible Pet Water Bowls: amzn.to/395qlHY
Popup Playpen: amzn.to/2K28De9
Earth Rated Dog Wipes: amzn.to/3wqcbfV
Hygiene:
Portable Shower: amzn.to/3Lq26E9
Collapsible Bucket: amzn.to/3SKGW7f
Scrubzz Rinse-free Bath Sponges: amzn.to/3KOIBVE
Wolfwise Popup Toilet Tent: amzn.to/3n4fm5T
Toilet: amzn.to/3ES8pQY
Hygiene Caddy: amzn.to/3mXO440
Curtains:
Magnetic Window Curtains: amzn.to/32PfZIt
Hippie Tapestry: amzn.to/3m24vbx
Mesh Bug Window Screens: amzn.to/3r46Oic
Bed/Lounging:
Trifold 4” Memory Foam Mattress: amzn.to/36z4q9o
Lost Horizon Foam Mattress: amzn.to/3OSND77
Get Out Gear Down Puffy Blanket: amzn.to/3UL0qJX
Fleece Blankets: amzn.to/3nZ0PZo
Fitted Cot Sheet: amzn.to/3uVQcKO
Miscellaneous:
Car Vacuum ThisWorx: amzn.to/3jIBC95
Sticky Gel Pads: amzn.to/3no94xR
United States Map Car Vinyl Sticker: amzn.to/3AZhbI5
Binder Clips: amzn.to/3TfUBnz
Hot Hands Hand Warmers: amzn.to/3mqdHre
Windshield Sun Visor: amzn.to/36fXNc8
Carbon Monoxide Detector: amzn.to/2K2PiJI
Grandpa Gus’s Mouse Repellent: amzn.to/3NLAJpK
Furniture:
3 Tier Slim Shelf: amzn.to/3sn6bzv
Foldable Lap Table: amzn.to/3CCLBlJ
Nice!! I have a 2017 dodge grand caravan. I thought my doors were broken because the auto switch was on 😳 and I didn't know I had one lol
I have a 2016 DGC American Value Package, the lowest-spec model. I like not having a console between the front seats, so I can go from front to back, and the reverse, without getting out of the van. I also like not having the ceiling storage/DVD piece, for more headroom. What I don't like about the AVP is that it doesn't have opening sliding door windows or a built-in roof rack. I've seen 30+ mpg on many tanks of gas when I was cruising all day at 65. Getting rid of the 2nd row seats and the larger one in the 3rd row saved about 200 lbs., so even with the bed, camping electrical system, food, water, etc. the weight is the same as the original factory setup with a 200 lb. passenger.
I have a 2012. Love it to death. I slept in it a lot of times. No motels for me.
I live in your Cousin, The Chrysler Pacifica.
I absolutely love it.
I'm 5'8" also and disabled. My bed was the most important thing to me. I found a narrow twin frame 30×72×14. It's perfect. I can still keep the small 3rd row seat up for sitting. I need a place to sit without being hunched over. But, I wanted my bed on the other side so I can enter on the drivers side but I did Not want to lose the seat. And I was Not going to sacrifice the width of my great bed! I found a kids gaming chair that is the perfect size and looks almost like the manufacturer chair!
I wonder if I can put my sliding doors in manual mode also. I'd love to keep one open without killing the battery.
Thanks for sharing this.
Good stuff 👍✌️❤️
~ 🦋
Well now I want a Dodge Grand Caravan! Great video Amanda. Thanks! ❤👏🐾❤
I do too!!! Thanks for the info and stay safe!
I recently sold my 30ft travel trailer and Ford 150 4x4, then purchased a DGC and am loving the ease of travel and much lower gasoline bills. Thanks for the in-service tour!
I am getting my 1st ever van tomorrow and it happens to be a 2010 dodge grand caravan.
I’m very excited to set it up and go out on overnight adventures with it as well as multi day venters as well.
Hi! How has the van treated you? I'm thinking of buying one tomorrow and I really want to hear some feedback!
I’m looking at one also. I hope it’s reliable if I keep up on fluids. I can’t afford a Toyota atm lol
Love my DGC. It's so easy to convert from a commuter/kid hauler to a camper. It's the best of both worlds.
How does this compare to a Toyota minivan? I'm looking around. Thanks
I have this same van(2015). I am 6' 9" and did a test road trip last summer and sleep in the back overnight. Had a TON of room. Really surprised me how much room there was.
Wasn't comfortable sleeping, but only because I didn't have a bed setup. Next time I'll have a mattress or something more comfortable. But as far as room, there is a ton, even for me at my height.
I saw your van at your meet up and loved it! This video tour was very detailed and I love your van life set up even more! Mike said tell Wynston we said hi❣️Be safe!
♥️🙏 Mike & Michelle Jones
Hi Michelle, it was great running into you at RV show...which model did you get...
We still have our Sprinter van. Perfect for the 2 of us but always love to get new ideas.
Fantastic video,just what a was looking for.Thank you.
This was a great video. Thanks for sharing about the automatic door switch and the interior lighting switch.
Recently got a 2019 that is very similar to yours but does not have the DVD/ entertainment installed in the roof console.
I like that the seats fold all the way into the floor. I was contemplating taking some of them all the way out for storage space or leaving them in...... I will leave them in for a while thanks to your mentioning it in this video for both ways.
🤗
I converted my 2012 Chrysler Town and Country into a camper several years ago. I have traveled several thousands of miles, camping, in it and love it. I bought it with 31,000 miles on it. I have the entertainment and storage compartment in the ceiling but it really gets in the way at times. I have 190,000 on it and my only wish is that I could get another one just like it new. Being a widow 83 years old this will no doubt be my last camper. It has been a great ride!!!
Comparison is the thief of joy.
I have a 2013 Dodge Caravan for Uber the seniors really like it
Thanks Amanda! Good information. I will probably be getting one soon!
I have a 2016 Grand Caravan, converted for camping. LOVE LOVE LOVE mine, too! Gas mileage in eco mode is almost 29 miles to the gallon, with no change if I run the AC, or fully loaded with gear. Flex fuel also saves me about 20 cents per gallon, and I get about 450 miles per tankful. Not the best mileage in the city (18mpg ), but I live in a rural area, so that's not a problem. And yes...plenty of head space! I have a platform bed, in mine, along with a 45 qt yeti cooler and a small Rubbermaid chest of drawers for cooking stuff, and a delta 1300 for power. I have the luggage rack but would like to purchase a carrier for outdoor chairs, grill, etc...Truly cozy van, especially for solo travel!
The effing doors! I cant believe i never figured it out. I use all my CAA for boosts when the doors kill my battery yet again. You clever thing you !
Thanks for sharing. I love my DGC. Have set it up for camping. You gave me some extra tips!
2019 DGC SXT is our family ride. Seeing yours makes me appreciate this grocery grabber of mine even more.
Great video Amanda, I agree with you 💯 l love my 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan.
Yep I have one and I LOVE it
Just traded my shuttle bus for a DGCV, watching this for inspiration as downsizing is the new challenge.
My dodge caravan is a 2019 so thank you for this and all the great links below!
:) THANKS for another GREAT share and Video!! I have had several from the very 1st one with a 4 cylinder, Manual transmission , and then at least 3 more... I do miss the roof rack that my current one does not have :( ALL the BEST and safe travels! Cheers! :)
Great info! Still trying to talk my husband into getting one for us for road-trips, etc. I read there’s 143 cubic feet of area behind the front seat with the 2nd and 3rd rows stowed. The only thing I would like is an AWD option, but I think that’s only available in some Toyota Sienna models.
Based on your video and other videos I watched about van conversions, I got a DGC this week!!! You gave a lot of great information that I didn’t know about my vehicle. Your van is adorable and your use of space is impressive. I look forward to more videos. 🙂
Congratulations!! 😍
I absolutely agree with you! Trying to search for a used minivan that is affordable to buy without payments or just stick with renting vehicles for my adventures.
Thanks sooo much for showing me about the place where you can turn off the inside lights when the door is open… your the best
I have a 2012. I had no idea what the door button did!! Now I know!
i've only had my 2012 for a week now and i love it
5:00 the lint roller looked like it belonged there 😄
I wanted to try van life a bit and found an '07 Grand Caravan with 96,000 mi. on it. Have been playing around with different combinations to find what works best for me. You have given me great ideas, as I want to have the seats available if I want to take the grands and their bikes etc. Thanks for sharing your wonderful ideas. I look forward to every video you share. I'm a GC lover for life, and when it's time will look for another.
Love how you decorated the roof console with 🌺🌹 Getting my second DGC soon as well. (2010 to a 2018) Great video
Thank you!
Thank you for a very informative video
Thanks for this video. I had no idea that I could turn off my automatic doors, which I really don’t like. I’m always scared my dogs will get caught up in the mechanism. So helpful! 😊
Front stow and go compartments for the middle seats the best benefit IMO
I agree 100%!
Since I live full time in my 2019 Grand Caravan SXT! It has more than everything I need!👍🚐
I have a 2016 Grand Caravan, getting it ready for warmer weather and Zion National Park. Have fun! Len
I’m 6’3 and have a 2016 Chrysler town and country and have it set up a lot like yours and yes there is plenty of room
wow, video was awesome. May have to be on the look out for a 2019 grand caravan.
Just a thought…if you turned your metal shelves upside down, they would have a lip so things won’t slide off the shelves during travel.
O!
The collars on each shelf corner are tapered to tighten the plastic locks to the legs so I don't think you can...
Great video. Have been living in my 2007 DGC for several years. Have the 2 pass seats behind the driver seat stowed for an air mattress bed. Has almost 300km now. Great versatile vehicles. Cheers!
Thank you so much!
I am so glad for your video! I am considering a Dodge Grand caravan to live in but some people say they are junk I'm glad they are actually reliable vehicles!
I like my caravan ❤
I love my 2020 Dodge caravan. Great video
Awesome video! I love my Chrysler Pacifica!
Thanks for the information! I’m currently looking for a van to start my van-life journey and a dgc is on the list.
You're so welcome! Good luck.
I just think this version of the Dodge Grand Caravan/Chrysler Town & Country, is the most attractive, most practical minivans ever made, full stop. Love them to bits.
I agree. 😍
Kool 2 Know that I'm not the only DGC Nomad out here in this Concrete jungle. I've been full-time in my 2017 RV for 3+yrs. Not paying rent on Payday keeps me motivated😉I enjoyed your Video Amanda👍
Right on!
Thanks for this VERY informative video. The DGC seems like hands down the best vehicle for van camping!
Great video!
Very helpful video !🌺🌼🌺🌼🌺🌼🌺🌼🌼🌺
2020 was the last year for DGC. I love the boxy look. As you were sharing asymmetrical. I have a 2013. I will definitely try leaving the doors cracked....i live in 🔥🔥🔥Texas
Love my DGC... just bought it 2 months ago. It is a "retired" Jucy Campervan and came with rear kitchen, bed, and table. I ripped out the table and bed to do a different style but love the kitchen as-is. It gets great mileage and is very comfortable to drive long distances.
I agree that Dodge Caravans are great for vanlife/camping but not all come with all the features yours has. My 2012 does not have a center console, nor an interior center feature with cubbies nor a roof rack etc. I wish it had those tho, lol. You set yours very well.
Love your wonderful little nest.
Safe travels.
This is so helpful! I’d love to have a caravan again. I’m 5’1” so I’d do great! I currently have an SUV Mazda CX 5
This video was perfect for me! I’m 5’11 and trying to decide on a van to switch from car camping to van life. Thank you Amanda for speaking directly to me 😂😂
Awesome! You're so welcome.
Great info for me as my next vehicle will be a Dodge Grand Caravan. Thanks!
Perfect van for a camper van conversion! 😊
A big shout out to the You Wrench channel. He has a bunch of great videos about doing your own maintenance on the DGC.
Awesome informative video thank you so much. I've been contemplating on wich type of vehicle to purchase for my traveling ❤ Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Pretty much all the same reasons I love my Town & Country, but since I have roof racks I opted for a sun roof :) Stay safe.
Also a T&C love it.Wish I had a sun roof tho.
I was wondering about the battery being drained when you had your doors open. I don't think my van has that feature. I have a Sierra. I do have those sunshades on the middle windows though. Thanks for the tour Amanda. Hi Wynston, you handsome boy!
Your channel.. you made me want a Dodge Grand caravan
I do oversize load pilot car just got me a DGC for the road gonna put a bed and kitchen in for while im working on the road gotta do a before and after video
I have a 2009 and removed all the back seats. I really haven't quite figured out the best way to configure everything. So far my bed was designed so that I have access to all the compartments, however. I really like the way it drives, and if I'm careful with how I drive I can get pretty good gas mileage.
I like these vans as they are reliable when properly maintained and not driven like a race van. I would turn off the door switched and just manually open them.
I'm considering a Caravan to replace my Sienna by the end if 2023.
The Caravan has so much room and has luxury options.👍😁🚐
I have a 2020 DCG. I got it used last year
You can get cheap bug shades like for patio doors and close them in your carrier hanging down over your open side doors for ventilation without bug’s getting in but having doors open.I love our dodge van.
I have lived in my 2019 Dodge Caravan for a year and a half now. Not by choice but yes, it's convertible. I use the floor space as my "basement" after removing the back seats.
Thank you for sharing the information. Love your dream catcher, where you got it from
It's from Hobby Lobby.
I have the same exact van but in black. I didn’t know about the interior lights.
Perfect timing!! I am going round and round on what vehicle to purchase. This morning I thought how about a Dodge Caravan?! I used to sell a lot of used ones and thought it had a lot of room. What is your gas mileage? I worry about blind spots, as well when merging to the right. I have always drove tiny cars. So many vehicle questions. Love ya, love your show❣️ 🚦🚐🛣️
Blind spots aren't an issue. I average about 23-25mpg.
No blind spots is what sold me on my first Grand Caravan, way back in 98 ish? 2016 doesn't have them, either.
I have 2007 dodge caravan only has drivers seat and 1 passenger seat looking forward to making it my own.
I once owned one of these vehicles and will give you some free advice. Never get one stuck in mud and or high centered in snow. Sure it would make a good place in sleeping but they are terrible in crappy weather.
Good thing Arizona doesn't have crappy weather.
I just bought a 2012 Grand Caravan !! Van life ‼️🙏
Congratulations!
@@AdventuringWithAmanda
Thank you 😊
Amanda I’ve been looking at a 2011 dodge caravan with 115000 miles. I’m looking to start my minivan camping adventures. ❤
My 2011 is still running strong! I bought it with 115k and it has 155k now. ❤️
I have an 06 Grand Caravan roomy dual sliding doors good on gas👍
The Grand Caravan is good enough to be a favorite of Rental fleets
What I love about this van is that is e85 compliant and you can get 600km range in this van
I enjoy watching your videos. Do you have a link to the dash mount phone holder?
Both were actually gifts but I do know they are from Amazon.
Just FYI you said in a couple of videos that 2019 was the last Dodge grand Caravan that is not true I just bought one and I was looking at 2020 models that’s the last year. I ended up buying a 2019 because the 2020 models do not take ethanol and the 2019’s do I’ve had four dodge grand caravans and I totally agree with you. They are the best vans for camping.
Well jeez I was a year off. 🙄
14.9!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So close!!!
It's killing me! 😂😂
Little trick for the sliding doors. While they're moving on their own, if you pull the handle as if to open them, the motor will disengage and the door will stop moving. Once you fully close or open them, they will go back to automatic.
That is false. Just turn off the switch so they can be manual, then you open them as much as you want.
Hi. I’ll say it again even if you don’t turn the wheels on dash for lights they shut off automatically after a minute or two anyway it’s a battery saver feature just saying so interior lights will only stay on a minute or two when doors are open
Mine automatically shuts off also.
Lovely, but they don't have a reputation for reliability. I personally like having a 4WD, can go more places. Not that I disliked Dodge, it's just quality has gone way down since Fiat, and company bought Chrysler up and eventually became Stellantis.
I had a 2009 Grand Caravan, and it was far from reliable. I will never buy another one. It broke down too many times while traveling to and from University and taking my daughters and other cheerleaders to out-of-town games. I have a 2019 Toyota Highlander, which is very reliable.
Great Video. Make sure you never use the Econ mode. It will reduce the lifetime of transmission. No big differece in fuel economy.
I don't.
❤❤❤
I see Matty has his clean Tek van in the background 😊
Yes, this video is a year old..
@AdventuringWithAmanda yes I just got a dodge caravan and was checking out some van builds just getting ideas.. I did see that the video was a year old I wasn't even sure if you would see my comments.. thanks for responding so fast
Hey Amanda, does your center console have a slight tilt? Mine does, lost a debit card my driver's license slid down in the little crack. Thankful I learned how to lift the console, thanks to utube. Thanks for sharing. I have a 2017 dodge grand caravan. Love it
I don't think so but I'm honestly not 100% sure!
Search RUclips and you can find a video about retrieving credit cards that slid into the center council.
Oh I did. Lifts right up 👍
Before you buy a Caravan / Town and Country / Pacifica make sure you know how fun it is to get to the spare tire.
Love your bed frame where you get from I have been looking for low bedroom for my bed in my camper
I made it! ruclips.net/video/YmORKGN3miE/видео.html
one of my questions which is, what size is the motor ? Also , I wondered if you put many miles on it… I’ve never cared for the vans Or Dodge but I am really impressed (( not so easily done) with the creativity and thought you’ve Put into it bc I’m exactly the same way, but I’m a Tad older and hoping I get to hit the road for the Desert, and I’m a Complete NE Woman who’s got family Everywhere, we do go back…. I digress.I Got to Go and wow, did You Help!
Thank you!!
3.6L and I've put about 40k miles on it in 2 years.
Doing research on these vans, there are a lot of mechanical & electrical problems with these. Probably going with the Toyota Sienna.
The 2019 up is the same thing it's just called the Pacifica but same as the town and country and Grand caravan same company as well and they are just as lovely at least from what I've seen
🙋🏽♀️Great Job on the information 👍🏽👍🏽can you tell me where you got the map on your outside door 🫶🏽
Is the ramp for your dog? I ask because I am considering the Dodge Caravan, but I have bad knees and am actually trying to figure out a ramp system. Thanks! I looove your content btw.😊😊😊
Yes for my dog. 😊
I am hoping to pick up my 2015 Caravan this week. Your ideas are really inspiring.
Congrats! Thank you!
Great video! Which model is this? I have a 2017 grand caravan SE, with no bells or whistles whatsoever.
SXT