How we pack our Campervan
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- Опубликовано: 7 авг 2024
- Before we head north for our next adventure, I thought I would share how we pack our Pleasureway Ascent campervan.
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I like your brilliant idea about the cellphone pocket.
We smiled all the way through this, Debbie! We so relate. Clever pant pocket design and opening the seam to incorporate it. I'll be trying it. Jennifer & John
I just love your videos. Thank you for making them.
Thanks for the tips. You two are the best!
Thanks for another great video. Have fun and enjoy !
Love the idea of the phone pocket on your jeans! That clothes hamper is nice too- thanks for sharing. I’m getting my packing process down for our new rig and this was timely food for thought. Safe travels to you two
Great suggestions and recommendations! Wish you Safe travels!
I have been practically binge watching your channel the last few days. Thank you so much for all of the great tips and tricks!
Thanks. I know some of my earlier videos are pretty rough, but I keep working on improving.
@@FromShetoMe I laughed out loud at the pointing hand and words "gaffer tape" on your husband's torn pants in one of your videos.
Thank you for taking the time to share this info. And, you are so clever ... the pocket you made!
Really love this video. So may helpful ideas!
Amazing Organization!! So helpful to learn from your experiences!! Thanks Debbie and John! Safe travels.
It’s fun to see what makes the van packing priority list. Sometimes my husband packs the van and picks me up where I’m working. I always get a kick out of what he brings (or does not bring) 🤣 Yes please, let’s talk about women’s clothing & useless pockets. Love your jeans pocket solution👍👍 Have a fun trip!
LOL. John would forget half the stuff. There would be no food. You are a trusting soul.
You guys are awesome! Luv the phone pocket.
I love that phone pocket idea. I will try it!
I’d love to try this and I would be glad to purchase one or make one!! Such a cool idea.
I love organizing videos as I'm always trying to get rid of stuff. Also, the cell phone pocket idea is wonderful. I will be using it.
Nice job. I always bring too many clothes and it’s something I need to work on...if we ever get out to travel again. A lot different here on the east coast. Love the pocket idea and will be borrowing it! Hope you’re having fun. Stay safe.
Thanks for this video! It was really useful to see how much garage space you have in the Ascent, what you bring, and ideas of how to pack the van. I’m going to have to check out the chairs you bring.
We saw another chair at the RVillage Rally this past winter that was really comfy but it is super expensive: bit.ly/2Dvkz4V
We wish there was outside storage on our Ascent. We’re not keen on the box we attached to the back receiver but it works for the hoses, BBQ, and any of the dirty kind of stuff. Inside there is always enough room except our fridge. We also removed the back seatbelts and added hooks to hang items from.
I accidentally stumbled upon this video, fantastic. Thanks for the tips.
Greetings from Australia 🇦🇺 👋🏻👋🏻
lol we can’t smell you 🤪. Love all the great tips and packing info. I’m still trying to pare down and I’m sure I’ll get better with practice but this summer was going to be when I hit the road but I’ve decided to wait until COVID19 is not an issue. Have a great trip and I’m anxious to see you improve your drone skills because you travel to such great places. Happy and safe travels 🚐😷❤️
Debbie and John, thank you for providing this channel! My wife and I really enjoy your videos and have come away with many tips for our RV unit. We have a Class C motorhome, many of your videos have given us ideas on how to improve our camping experience. The instantpot is an example. We both love cheesecake, on our next camp out, we will try making for the first time. Your organization of clothing and camper supplies is another. We can relate when it comes to bringing a lot more than you need to camp. We constantly over pack. Again thank you for providing an outlet during these challenging times. We both look forward to your up coming videos. Take care.
You are most welcome. With regard to the cheesecake, I would say add cooking time and do the natural release. You really can’t overcook it.
Thanks for this video, Debbie and John - my husband and I are off on our maiden voyage tomorrow and it really helped!
Have fun. Don’t sweat the problems that pop up. You’ll laugh about them down the road.
Great video. A game changer for us was purchasing two Gonex 60 liter folding duffle bags that fit perfectly in the space in front of the couch/bed. Huge volume for packing clothes and can be left in place with bed down. Amazon has them. They fold into pouch sizes when not used. Thanks for the videos.
Great information! Thank you.
Maui Jim is my brand. They have the best warranty repair, fix policy. Thank you Maui Jim. Really enjoy your perspective and experience. 👏🏽🇨🇦🚌🇨🇦👏🏽
Again thanks for the informative video. The more we travel in our Ascent the more we realize the things we don't really need. Having been backpackers we are use to wearing the same cloths for several days and showers....? We've adopted several of your "modifications" and are thankful for your sharing. Safe travels and if you ever get to Michigan let us know.
We do want to get to Michigan one of these days. Everyone raves about it.
@@FromShetoMe It's a long way from southern California to Michigan. We spent several weeks last winter exploring the beautiful California coast.
Thanks for sharing! Here’s some tips on where we found extra space in our Ascent: 1. We removed the carpeted panel beside the rear battery box, it’s just the charger in there and it has its own cooling fan. 2. In the rear largest upper cabinet the curved plastic covers are wasting a lot of space in behind so I’m about to replace them with 1/8 white ABS plastic sheets (can be cut with scissors). 3. Below the 3 kitchen drawers is a huge empty space; the front panel has clips and pops off when pulled, and then unscrew the cover panels in behind(they are not structural) - I added another drawer handle so it looks like a 4th drawer and because there are water lines in there it’s a great spot to put laundry. 4. The passenger side ottoman, below carpeted panel can be easily made into a huge hidden compartment: I slightly relocated the inverter electrical box at the back, and trimmed 1 inch of wood off the panel at the rear so it can be pulled up by hand(leaving the carpet in place to hide the cut) Lots of room under there.
Great ideas! I also removed the false wall in front of the plumbing under the kitchen sink. I haven't shared with viewers the space under the third drawer because I use it to stash electronics out of sight when we have to leave the van.
Great timing -we were packing for a short trip. Dave who tends to just throw stuff in ,said “okay John I’m going to try to pack less stuff just like you! “. More later. Happy trails!
Great to hear from you Anna! We're off to Ashland today. Hope you guys are doing well.
Another great video as usual. For those who stayed till the very end, regarding tech clothing, the wife and I have used and loved ScotteVest clothing for years. A little expensive, but you there are always discounts. The Margaux Cargaux Travel Pants are pretty stylish women's pants that will hold your tech. But sewing a pocket on your jeans works too. 😊
Thanks. I have not heard of that brand but going to check it out right now!
I have the same tripod, CF, love it.
I keep reorganizing my kitchen cups & plates in upper- and they still fall all over. Work in progress. We use different color packing cubes for different family members and dogs. It helps a lot when you share space.
That's one fancy tripod! I use a tool bag made by Craftsman for my tools. It's a lot easier to fit into the storage area. I also use microfiber towels because they don't take up as much room. I always bring too much clothing. I really need to work on that but i do have a longer Sprinter can that has a closet and there's just me and my dog a lot of the time. Great video, Safe travels. Enjoy Tahoe, I'm going to wait until is less crowded, probably late August or early September to head up there.
We hunker down on weekends in the basin but it has actually been more quiet than it usually is.
I'll check out your recommendation for tools. We originally used microfiber towels but John didn't care for them.
Love all your tips and I've incorporated many into our camping trips. Lately I've been wondering how to wash dishes with the least amount of water going into the gray tank. I wondered if you had any good suggestions?
Yes, fill a spray bottle with soapy water. Spray the dishes, wipe out what you can with a paper towel. Get a plastic scraper for tough food items. Should make cleanup much easier.
Very nice, Thanks
Great video 👍👍. I’m still trying to decide on the bedding for our rig. We also have to fit a dog in.😃
Yep, much harder with a dog.
For two people, you have packed amazingly minimalistic! Makes me see l can cut back even more for myself and "the girls". I see l can pack even less and "tighter"! Back to the drawing board l go.
Dogs do make it a challenge.
Going from my 45’ Truck Conversion to my 21’ Lexor has been a challenge as I like my stuff! Also, I pack for 4-seasons. 😂 The Trasharoo looks bigger than I was expecting. On order soon. Just received my Victron BMV-712, now have to find time to install. Want to come install it for me? Glacier is opening up more Monday! 👍
I hear Covid is exploding in Montana. Where are you? Maybe we could swing by and I could "supervise." Have you ordered the extra wire you need? Get one longer than I did. One tip I want to pass on from a viewer, remove your watch and rings (if applicable) and tape off the connections so you don't arc.
From She to Me, I am in Columbia Falls, MT 16 miles from the west entrance of Glacier National Park. Compared to NY, FL, TX, and CA, MT is minuscule in numbers. Total cases 1593, deaths 28. County I am in, Flathead, has 64 cases, 0 new cases. Total cases, 14. Total recovered 48. Total deaths, 2. I wear my mask in stores, social distance, avoid big groups, and wash/sanitize my hands a lot.....No, I did not get any extra cables and I missed that in your video so will need to go back and watch it again. As soon as I opened it I was like, I’m missing cables I believe. Licensed FAA airframe and power plant mechanic, so no rings and definitely take off the watch when around electrical. I’m here until I lend of August for now, could stay longer, but too early to make that decision.
I buy the “chamber pant” from title nine. They have a nice side pocket and come a Capri and long pants.
We have a 2016 white Subaru Outback and looks like you do too. 👌🏻
We recently gave it to our son because his Subaru was getting long in the tooth. We don’t drive much when at home so don’t mind his older car.
Hi I enjoyed the video on packing! Try Kuhl ladies pants for the “Tech Pant” you are looking for. I think they have a side phone pocket on all their pants and shorts. Love your channel.
Thanks. I do like the Kuhl line and the men’s pants in a ladies version would be great. Every season I check to see if they have improved the women’s pockets. Not yet but maybe some day they will catch up.
Hi again, Debbie! It’s Lori, missing her horse in the Hill Country again.
I wondered if you can plz tell me where you got your behind the passenger seat organizer? I like that the compartments all zip and stuff isn’t poking out & in the way. I can’t seem to locate that one.
One other thought, I’m a needle felter and I have been working out how to fit my stuff in, so I can do my art while traveling, just as you have a lot of gear as a videographer. Mine is light weight, though! I thought an episode idea could be van life for artists on the road. It might be fun to see what people are creating as they travel.❤
I agree with the lack of pockets in women’s tech pants, or if there is a pocket, it won’t accommodate a newer, larger cell phone. I have actually started buying men’s pants and tailoring them to fit.
I spent the evening turning some pants into shorts to I could add pockets. Everything I have that doesn’t accommodate a cell phone doesn’t get worn anymore.
You mentioned that in cold weather a problem with storage of coats. I have done this with sweatshirts, coats etc where you put them in a decorate zippered pillow case like you would use on a living rm couch. Just a thought
Hi Debbie-always great videos! Are you aware of the space in the back (garage) at the top. There's a little shelf up the sort of behind the rear screen (when it is rolled up). I usually keep my quart of oil, some vinyl gloves (for dumping) and a few other small items. Thanks again for your informative videos. Safe travels!
Yes, we keep our hiking poles up there. Nice spot out of the way.
DEBBY& JOHN , great space packing, now a friend of mine would DYMO LABLE EVERYTHING , She even gave me one years ago, now the cooking thing you are/were looking for,,in ENGLAND, ITS RIDGE MONKEY, but do use that search in AMAZON HERE and,,it comes up here with a deferent name , BTW, do you carry a foldable SHOVEL? Stay well, cheers 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Yes, we have a foldable shovel.
I’ve been watching and loving your videos since May. We ordered our Ascent in June. I want to get e-bikes and am not sure how you keep them charged up with all the boondocking you do. Please let me know how y’all do it. Thanks for all of the wonderful videos!
Thanks Susan. We typically charge when we are driving. We can usually get a couple of nice rides on one charge. This time of year, it really matters how far south you are for solar. We often end up with hookups every 3rd or 4th day.
I love so many of your packing ideas, but I am about to be FT in a class C and need about 8-9 months of clothing!
You'll have plenty of space then.
Always, great tips and tricks...Thank you ! Love your pocket idea ;-). In high school I took sewing, but alas, that was nearly 40 years ago. Sadly, I just don't recall how to navigate around a sewing machine anymore. What would we do w/out RUclips ;-). Safe travels. ....PeAcE
Yes, RUclips has taught me so much!
Great videos and explainations - wondering where you got your soft packs for clothes?
I got them at REI which stands for Recreation Equipment Incorporated. It is a "co-op." I don't know if they ship to Europe. www.rei.com.
KYD shirt!!!!
Great videos and information always. Where did you find the bathroom rack and paper towel holder you put in your bathroom?
Should be in my Amazon Storefront (link in description box below video). If you can’t find it, let me know. The description box is under the “show more” tab on a computer or the tiny triangle on a mobile device.
From She to Me
Sorry, I looked under all the categories but couldn’t find those items. 🤔
I ditched my little Nespresso machine from out new Travato. I bought it for our last trailer where there was a space for it, but in the Travato, it takes up too much space to stash and it way too much space on the mini kitchen counter. I’m back to drinking Via instant.
I noticed you have a kitchen faucet that is taller than the original equipment one we have in our '17 Ascent. Did you add that or was it OE? If so, do you like it and what is the model? BTW, if you ever get the chance please visit our little town of Sisters, Oregon. Lots of boondocking options close to town. You would love it. Thanks.
It was OE but PW had an issue With them dripping. I like the one on the new model because it has a pullout spout. If I could get one of those, I would switch. I’ll put Sisters on the list for our next trip north. We came up on 97 with a good view of the Three Sisters.
Hello Josie and I will start RVing soon, maybe next week. The purchase of the RV is not moving as quick as I wish. Are you guys retired and go on part time trips? I’m military retired, 30 yrs, and now working as a HS teacher. We will eventually retire and travel more but Josie and I were wondering what your status is? Love your videos, you are a natural and very candid.
Thanks. Yes, we are both retired. Last year we were about half time on the road. This year it will probably be 4-5 months. We are lucky to live in SoCal and are close to great winter camping spots.
Thank you once again. Such an inspiration. You once told us of a cell booster you thought was better than wiiboost. What is it? Is it on your Amazon page?
Thank you
We use the Verizon Mifi with a MIMO antennae and the antennae is on our Amazon Storefront under “electronics,”
Where do you camp above Independence ? I know there are places by the creek but to low and hot this time of year. We spent the 4th at Silver Lake overflow Aerie Crag rv camp/day use . It was free because of no water or restrooms . We took a side trip up to Big Pine Creek recreation area, just to snoop on the way home.Three campgrounds by the creek.The two lower campgrounds are very nice. The upper one was too cramped .
We stayed at Upper Gray's Meadow. Yes, it was a bit warm but there are some wonderful shady spots near the creek. And there are a few spots that would work up at the campground in Onion Valley.
Another helpful video, Deb! We have. 2021.5 Plateau FL, but no spare tire. I love the storage capability of the trasheroo, and am wondering if you think we can hang it on the back of the driver’s seat?
You’d have to remove it if you want to spin the seat around. It’s amazing how much we have reduced our stuff over the years. I bet you’ll get there too and not need the Trasharoo.
@@FromShetoMe, BTW... how do you like the tripod? I’m an amateur photographer and am sick of carrying a big tripod? I’m concerned about not having a ball head!
@@judilecompte9377 I like it but it is very heavy so you wouldn't want to hike with it. I have some pretty small tripods (no extending legs) that I hike with and you could put a ball head on any tripod.
Debbie, I noticed that cooler with a red tray on top. can you give me more details on that? We just bought a PW. First van ever!
Back then, we carried a small cooler with ice because the 3 way fridge that came with our van struggled to keep foods cold enough. We no longer need that but the red tray was something I picked up at Target and I had placed velcro on the bottom so it would stay on top of the cooler. I still use the red tray because it fits perfectly between the sofa and ottoman. Wish I could find another one with the same dimensions.
For those who already wear glasses, another great sunglass option is called a fit-over. I like the Cocoons brand, but there are less expensive ones. Cocoons use prescription quality lenses, but they fit over your existing glasses be they prescription or readers. I also like that they block light from coming in the side or top. You can buy them at Bass Pro (limited choices), some optical labs, or order them online. If you order online, I recommend at least selecting the style, color, and fit on the manufacturer's website because you need to measure your glasses for the correct fit.
Thanks for the tip. I’m currently looking for a pair of non polarizing glasses. They are hard to find.
@@FromShetoMe I think Cocoons are available in some non-polarized lenses for specific purposes, anti-glare for night driving, computer viewing, etc. You may find one that meets your needs. Check the manufacturer's website for details.
I'm intrigued by your hamper but didn't see it on your Amazon page. I also could not find the hooks that seem to be hanging over your door, which would be really handy.
Sorry about that. Here is the link: www.amazon.com/dp/B000ILJQCO/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
The hooks were made by a blacksmith at a spot we stopped in British Columbia last year. I think they were $5 or $10 each. It's one of those things blacksmiths learn to do early on so if you ever spot one at a fair or country museum, just ask them to make one to your specs.
@@FromShetoMe Thanks for the link and the blacksmith tip! I'm a big fan and fellow pleasureway owner (plateau).
I take an immersion blender because I don’t have room for a blender. (I don’t know what a blendtech is - I’ll check after I finish your vid)
I do carry an immersion blender but I need something that crushes ice.
Also, do you have a link to the TP holder in your bathroom?
www.amazon.com/dp/B00LRH18BU?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_mw
It’s on my Amazon Storefront.
Are you heading our way? It's beautiful....:)
We'll be heading toward Spokane tomorrow so it will be a few weeks before we are heading your way.
Love your show so much.
Where did you get those chairs? Thanks.
Frances.
Thanks. Here is a link; I try to keep all our gear in our Amazon storefront which is linked in the description box ("see more" tab on a laptop or the small triangle on a mobile device) www.amazon.com/dp/B07N71DDXW/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
$40 for pico chairs alexanderstyle.com/product/gci-outdoor-pico-compact-folding-camp-chair-with-carry-bag/
My iphone was worth every penny because of that pinging feature!
Is that a Subaru parked in the garage?
Thank you for your video. An apple watch to find your phone? Why not have an extra app to find your glasses, ...?? - Quite interesting to see how you pack your van. Is it still called camping? With all the toys that we (think we) need? In 40 years of camping I have reduced the meanwhile "luxury" equipment to a minimum. I could lease empty space in my van. Best of all: I have never had a TV in my trailers/van so far. Greetings from Bavaria, Germany.
If someone made an eye glass finder, I'd be there. While we have come to like the TV for watching downloaded RUclips videos, we wish we could remove the TV antenna that is on top of the van.
Thanks for sharing. What are those slip on shoes? I need some like that. Also, what is the portable jumpstart kit?
Shows are Crocs and here is link to jump starter www.amazon.com/dp/B01D42TYFC/?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_mw
Where’d you get the case to fit it?
Dot ComMom Ours came with a case.
How is the new cup holder working out? I was hoping to see a video about the installation.
I'll show it in next week's video. There really isn't any "installation." We just slipped it in and one of the cups rests in the Mercedes cup holder. Although it does come with two bits you're supposed to put somewhere, I couldn't figure it out. Bottom line, I really like the cup holder. But to swivel the front seat, without removing the cupholder, the seat has to be in just the right spot. I'll demonstrate next week.
I purchased the “seconds” 1/2 priced cup holder after seeing your video and had to put the cups in the freezer to shrink them enough to slide into the circle cut outs. The plugs they send you are to put in the holes you drill into the insert you pull out. I thought I could get away with just inserting it into the pocket in the dash but my husband said it fell out while he was driving it. Good thing he didn’t have anything in the cup holders. CaveVan.com has install videos on RUclips if you search CaveVan cup holder install.
I have copied some of your ideas and bought things you mentioned. Thank you! The net over the front seats, did you screw nails in the roof to hang it?
I bought the vancillary kit that includes brackets and a template for a wood shelf and screwed into that.
Lookup pocketplus.com it’s an extra pocket for your phone that you can put it in your pocket but it has a strap with a magnet that goes inside your pocket and then you have a strap that holds the pocket on the outside of your front pocket for your jeans and it moves the pocket down to your jeans instead of your belt it doesn’t get in the way of the seatbelt when you’re driving
here is the correct link for anyone interested: thepocketplus.com
So it looks like you have ditched the foam pad for the bed, how is that working out? And do you just put the electric cord on top of the Pico chairs while traveling
Yes, we are now without pads and no problems. Our cord goes under the passenger side ottoman.
What is the purpose of the binder clips on the seatbelt straps in the garage?
Just to keep them from getting in the way. They also come in handy for other things.
Hey Debbie, if you decide to sell the window shades I am in!
Hi Debbie - Do you know anyone who does videos or commentaries from a Lexor TS or XL - love what you do!
I don’t but the most knowledgeable person I know on that chassis is Jim Barta who frequents the online owner’s group.
I've seen cords and hoses stored on the backside of the cabinets behind the back doors. Do you do that and if so, how?
No, we do not but saw a clever way of doing it last summer. Someone had screwed peg board to the rear doors.
@@FromShetoMe Thanks. I saw them up high on the outside back of the cupboards.
@@karenw.beatty5263 Oh, yes. Our van has a shallow shelf there but it is only big enough for our walking sticks.
what size comforter/duvet cover do you use in the van?
Queen size on both.
From She to Me thank you very much.
How do you keep stored things in bathroom dry, if you shower?
I keep everything in containers that can be pulled out easily. But only things below eye level need to go because you are sitting.
Love the pockets! Maybe you could design/market favorable and realistic active women's clothing? Safe travels.
If I only had a few more lives.
@@FromShetoMe you are very talented. Thanks again for the outside shower rec. I cut my pieces and put together yesterday!
I can't remember if I told you about another viewer who ran shock cord through the tubing so they fit together like a tent pole.
@@FromShetoMe interesting idea. Did you remove your MCD shade for rear doors? I did and noticed the PW 4-sided upside down 'valence' after removal. I was thinking that with the right 'shock cord' or webbing, you could turn that space into a small storage area? Safe travels.
@@deniseb.6007 I haven't removed the shade but we store our walking sticks and long shower poles above that area--accessed from the rear doors (behind the rolled up mosquito screen).
How do you fill the bags with clothes, example the one with jacket, rain jacket...how to get items in such a small bag? Is there a folding technique, my clothes don't fold that small....help
I roll everything.
@@FromShetoMe thank you!
where do you Store the cooler
It just fits between the ottoman and the sofa.
What drone do you have?
I have the DJI Spark which I've sidelined in favor of the mini which I find easier to fly; but I'm still too timid.
Have you looked at the Eddie Bauer guidepro pants for the side pocket. I find my phone fits well.
Thanks, I'll take a look.
Is it wrong to covet your 3-car garage? 😁
Of course, some people usually organize things well, but some people may learn from traveling.
Is it necessary to keep the seat belts for the couch/bed if you never transport other people ? They seem to be in the way and I noticed you put the cover back over the battery.
Actually, that isn't the decorative battery cover. Probably could take out the seat belts. But occasionally we have transported adults in the back.
Hi Love your channel your so handy what did u do for work before you retired?
John, she can't find her phone? Stop taking her to the "Weed Depot".
Anything less than 4 pillows for me is roughing it.🤓
My neighbor says a hotel without a minibar is roughing it.
@@FromShetoMe 🤣
Whats with all the bags? If you removed 90% of the bags you would have 50% more room🤣
LOL, Are you referring to me, Dean? Getting bored staying on your little island?
@@FromShetoMe I never thought of my comment that way🤣 but!!!!!
With everyone staying in NZ the economy is going really well.
With our 2 e bikes, 2 Kayaks packed and top down on our convertible we are away on our 4 day weekend trips.