A lot of neat stuff there I live on a little houseboat in the Gulf of Mexico in the keys and I've been out on this boat for 23 years. There are a lot of little things that make a life a whole lot easier and more comfortable. Cannot overemphasize Good batteries good solar panels and a good inverter. I run a small refrigerator freezer off of the Sun. It runs all day when the sun's out and shuts down at night and in the morning everything's chill Frosty Freezy. Some of that food in their has not thawed out for over 6 months
#7 is the most important item. At least for me. Mosquitoes love my blood, it is really incredible. So, one day in Thailand, I bought one of those things. It was one of the happiest days in my life.
From my personal vehicle dwelling experience, I would also recommend 1. battery jumper 2. battery charger 3. socket set to work on car stuff 4. gloves 5. Baby wipes 6. Odorless ziplock bags 7. bio degradable soap There are many more useful tools for van living/ camping but so much of it depends on personal preference. Best of luck to you all
I commend you for designing an informative thumbnail image and the decision to not use affiliate links. I feel this really builds up your authenticity. Keep up the great work!
You didn't mention the satisfying "pop" when you actually hit the insect with the racquet! So many times the insect dodges but with the racquet, you KNOW when you hit the insect!
Check out RV “hour shower” on RUclips. I ordered all the parts. Now I have to figure out how to make it 😂 but recycles your water with a filter… so you can shower for an hr with like 2 gallons.
Amazing list of items. From our experience: Key for running any electrical items is definitely the USB capability, as you showed with several items. Everything should run/charge on USB only. Torches, fans, cameras, toothbrush, name it, everything runs on USB only, meanwhile even our laptops charge via USB. No more several sets of different spare batteries, loads of different chargers running at different voltage etc. - just rechargeable items only charged by USB. Additionally to the main van power source we keep also always some small power banks ready (usually in the 20.000-26.000mAh range) - they are very handy when we are outside of the vehicle/on a walk as well as inside as backup or when the power cords are too short ... We do not use electrical dehumidifiers in the van but have set up moisture absorbing granulate boxes. Works absolutely amazing, keeps the humidity always automatically at 50-60%. Only thing is these boxes should be kept in a trayer or so where it doesn't matter if they splash in curves ... ;-) The granules are cheap and easy to refill, the resulting liquid can be put in the sink. They are also extremely helpful if we keep the van parked alone over a longer period of time - completely maintenance free, no electricity required, no fear of short circuit/fire etc. There are also small containers available in case you want to keep them in a cupboard, but in our van it is not required since the cupboards are all open at the wall side for ventilation. Magnetic holders and carabiners are fine, as you demonstrated. We use also plenty of simple S-hooks for hanging up keys, caps and other stuff somewhere ...
With all those USB devices, and your limitation with fan placement, it might be worth it to invest into some USB extension cables. Lots of em on Amazon and such.
Just tried to order the Opolar and went through the whole process... Reminds me of Omaze ... They don't ship to Quebec. This is getting old. Thanks for sharing though, these are great ideas!
You guys are my favorite vanlife people. You’re real, kind, sweet-natured, and humble. Or at least it comes off that way to me. Thanks for the quality conversations/demonstrations/interactions. God bless.
You can get a USB extension cable to allow you to give the fan more distance. It may also run from a smartphone battery pack. If so, then you can practically put it anywhere.
Fantastic useful indispensable gadgets that you showed here. Thanks for sharing. I really loved the magnetic lamp, dehumidifier, shower installation and the littles magnets where do they come from? So practical. Nice organized van that is for sure!
The bug zapper and flashlight are must haves! The dehumidifier is not needed. Just use van’s air conditioner or heat with recycled air on. I recommend a small pressure cooker, we use it to cook rice and vegetable everyday.
Very useful and informative video! And well-done qua video moreover. It's apparent the providers sincerely want to help... and they know what they're talking about!
wondering if you also have a link to the overhead lights you used in your van. I would like to do a van conversion also using the Inergy products. What did you do to get your lights to plug into the Apex,Kodiak, or Flex DC/1500
I have a 20sqm home, and I also don't have a heater in my shower. I basically just use a bucket, a water dipper, and heat some water in my electric kettle. I heat it twice, and then use the heating time to prepare my clothes (if I'm going out), or get breakfast.
Hi Mary, I'm from Québec but I speak mostly English now so it's a pretty funny accent I guess :) Thanks for checking out the video, hope you enjoyed it!
Thanks for making this list: Very useful! Where did you get the little magnets? We have a hard time finding some with a little loop like yours. Thanks!
Thanks for the recommendations and do you know something? I installed a boat foot water pump in the sink, here in Spain nobody knows it for campers (only boats)and thanks to you for an excellent video that you explain it, I decided to install it.... Ah! I love your whale. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I recognize the smoky air of Kamloops! I really questioned visiting there this past Summer. I will look into getting an air purifier. I love the fan and air pump. I don't have the shower set up like you do so that will be one of my next upgrades. I have the small vacuum but have yet to remember to use it. Thanks for the video.
Such a great idea for a video, I appreciate these suggestions!! I added it to my watch list so that I can return to it periodically because I didn't write down the suggestions but want to recall and purchase several of these items.
I've never heard of a portable shower like that before. A lot of van lifers could totally use that! I also didn't know there were electric fly swatters out there. What is so special about them that they need a battery for?
Some of these things aren't at the top of the essentials list. Some like a dehumidifier are luxuries at Van level. Water storage, food storage and preparation, privacy, personal hygiene including poop and pee control and personal security are all more "essential" than a vacuum cleaner or trick semi disposable flashlight.
In my opinion, THE MOST IMPORTANT items to invest in for any vanlifer are those that give you the ability to earn money while you’re on the road and be capable of sustaining that lifestyle. Those items would include: - 1. Laptop/PC 2. Internet Access 3. You’re own website 4. Content creation equipment - writing software/camera/drone/editing software Everything and anything else is for comfort but pretty useless unless you can sustain yourself with an income. .
Fantastic video. I have several of these things already for my van, but there are quite a few that I’m going to search for. One thing I need to get is a fire extinguisher. Any thoughts or links for a good one for the van? I have a Transit also.
Oh yeah, we forgot to mention that! We just got a pretty basic small one from Canadian Tire. We also have a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector. Thanks for watching :)
If you pick the insect racket up do it by the handle . It hurts if you get hold the other pass it to your partner and she " accidentally " presses the button
I can vouch for #7. Electronic bag zapper!! I have a pink one from tractor supply ($7) and it is amazing! Everyone should have one! Flys, gnats, and I got a couple bees in the house with one small zap
Hello, people, don't forget about cable extenders. Find out what the name lf the usb plug is and then just get an extension cable (make sure you check wheter it is male or female) :)
Get a battery-powered tire compressor from Xiaomi instead. It's cheap, tiny, durable and really easy to use (it can use either PSI or BAR so you don't have to do the math on the road) it's a real no-brainer for vanlife/overlanding
Didn't read all comments so somebody probably already commented, BUT, as for the bug thing...the one I have sits on a stand, but its the light that is Everything!!! You just set it up and it attracts in 1 minute!!! Love it
Never used a dehumidifier on our travels because we have roof ac. This does make sense for cold weather travel. have used most of the other stuff and would recommend them too except the magnets. they will cause havoc with ones electronics. recommend purchasing a battery load tester and JB Weld to carry on board.
This is so useful for us in the UK , their are many of us being made homeless by our government's madness . Many of us already live in vans bur at the moment we can't drive them as we have no fuel 🤔
How has traveling been through the pandemic? how has covid changed your business? I would love to hear the tidbits you two have learned in this time. awesome video!
Thanks for watching! For your chance to win a Sprinter van conversion and support a great cause, enter at www.omaze.com/exploringalternatives
No Glock?
@@gggusc11 IKR!! I'm sure there's a sh!t load of women that would love that, alone w/few guys!😄...
A lot of neat stuff there I live on a little houseboat in the Gulf of Mexico in the keys and I've been out on this boat for 23 years. There are a lot of little things that make a life a whole lot easier and more comfortable. Cannot overemphasize Good batteries good solar panels and a good inverter. I run a small refrigerator freezer off of the Sun. It runs all day when the sun's out and shuts down at night and in the morning everything's chill Frosty Freezy. Some of that food in their has not thawed out for over 6 months
#7 is the most important item.
At least for me.
Mosquitoes love my blood, it is really incredible.
So, one day in Thailand, I bought one of those things.
It was one of the happiest days in my life.
From my personal vehicle dwelling experience, I would also recommend
1. battery jumper
2. battery charger
3. socket set to work on car stuff
4. gloves
5. Baby wipes
6. Odorless ziplock bags
7. bio degradable soap
There are many more useful tools for van living/ camping but so much of it depends on personal preference. Best of luck to you all
Those are great tips, thanks for sharing :) :)
@@ExploringAlternatives my pleasure, keep up the helpful content
i didnt even know a battery jumper existed thanks
I commend you for designing an informative thumbnail image and the decision to not use affiliate links. I feel this really builds up your authenticity. Keep up the great work!
I don’t mind affiliate links, if they’ve already established their integrity, and have proven the products to be of solid quality.
I need the freaking links! I don't want to keep looking for the stuff he's talking about. It's a pain.
Alright nomads, let’s sling the links here for others: we are all ordering 😂
Lol
I'm a truck driver and I've found this list to be super helpful. Camping gear makes living on the road manageable. Thanks for the list!
You didn't mention the satisfying "pop" when you actually hit the insect with the racquet! So many times the insect dodges but with the racquet, you KNOW when you hit the insect!
Check out RV “hour shower” on RUclips. I ordered all the parts. Now I have to figure out how to make it 😂 but recycles your water with a filter… so you can shower for an hr with like 2 gallons.
Very good video. Nice list of gadgets I have not seen mentioned in other similar videos (lists of things van lifers like). Happy Trails!
Amazing list of items.
From our experience:
Key for running any electrical items is definitely the USB capability, as you showed with several items. Everything should run/charge on USB only. Torches, fans, cameras, toothbrush, name it, everything runs on USB only, meanwhile even our laptops charge via USB. No more several sets of different spare batteries, loads of different chargers running at different voltage etc. - just rechargeable items only charged by USB.
Additionally to the main van power source we keep also always some small power banks ready (usually in the 20.000-26.000mAh range) - they are very handy when we are outside of the vehicle/on a walk as well as inside as backup or when the power cords are too short ...
We do not use electrical dehumidifiers in the van but have set up moisture absorbing granulate boxes. Works absolutely amazing, keeps the humidity always automatically at 50-60%. Only thing is these boxes should be kept in a trayer or so where it doesn't matter if they splash in curves ... ;-) The granules are cheap and easy to refill, the resulting liquid can be put in the sink. They are also extremely helpful if we keep the van parked alone over a longer period of time - completely maintenance free, no electricity required, no fear of short circuit/fire etc. There are also small containers available in case you want to keep them in a cupboard, but in our van it is not required since the cupboards are all open at the wall side for ventilation.
Magnetic holders and carabiners are fine, as you demonstrated. We use also plenty of simple S-hooks for hanging up keys, caps and other stuff somewhere ...
This is the most wonderful, short and demonstrated video. Thank you for sharing.
for humidity try using cat litter in old socks
With all those USB devices, and your limitation with fan placement, it might be worth it to invest into some USB extension cables. Lots of em on Amazon and such.
Just tried to order the Opolar and went through the whole process... Reminds me of Omaze ... They don't ship to Quebec. This is getting old. Thanks for sharing though, these are great ideas!
You guys are my favorite vanlife people. You’re real, kind, sweet-natured, and humble.
Or at least it comes off that way to me.
Thanks for the quality conversations/demonstrations/interactions.
God bless.
Thanks so much Faithful Tribe :) :)
They absolutely are in “real life” too! :)
Aww thanks Jen ;)
I don’t remember what they’re called, but you can get a USB “extender” cord. USB to USB. I think I got mine @ BestBuy.
Very nice video ☺👍
Really great items for living full-time in a van! Thanks for sharing!
I had one guy teach me how to cook canned foods by clipping a Vice grip to the can and just placing it on the camp fire.
Gayla, with the lioff or a couple of holes poked, right?!
This is an amazing episode! I hope you'll do more with more expensive stuff (solar panels, portable batteries, etc)
Your youtube content are awesome ✌️
Thank you so much 😀
Super helpful video -- and not just for vanlife! I go car camping a lot and many of these would be really handy
You can get usb extension leads, so you could have more places to move your fan to. If you haven't discovered these already. 😊
Get the black n decker fly swatter from Lowes...best 10bucks spent
It is not a contest if one has to pay money to enter. That is known as a raffle.
Thanks for watching! You can also enter to win without contributing, it’s an option in the “entries” section of the page. Best of luck 🤞 😁
You can get a USB extension cable to allow you to give the fan more distance. It may also run from a smartphone battery pack. If so, then you can practically put it anywhere.
Thanks for the video. Great information!😀
Fantastic useful indispensable gadgets that you showed here. Thanks for sharing. I really loved the magnetic lamp, dehumidifier, shower installation and the littles magnets where do they come from? So practical.
Nice organized van that is for sure!
The bug zapper and flashlight are must haves! The dehumidifier is not needed. Just use van’s air conditioner or heat with recycled air on. I recommend a small pressure cooker, we use it to cook rice and vegetable everyday.
Pressure cooker is a winner.
Wow, this is AWE-SOME ! Great episode. Thanks
You might try putting the windshield reflective cover on the outside of the van using the magnetic studs to further reduce solar heat gain
Awesome video as usual! I can tell a lot of thought and effort goes into them ❤️
I just use the handheld vacuum for the flys.
Very useful and informative video! And well-done qua video moreover. It's apparent the providers sincerely want to help... and they know what they're talking about!
Hi, great video! I'm wondering what solar-powered generator you two are using. Thanks!
wondering if you also have a link to the overhead lights you used in your van. I would like to do a van conversion also using the Inergy products. What did you do to get your lights to plug into the Apex,Kodiak, or Flex DC/1500
thanks , from ISTANBUL
Very useful gears.
I appreciate it that there are no financial incentives to taint the recommendation.
I have a 20sqm home, and I also don't have a heater in my shower. I basically just use a bucket, a water dipper, and heat some water in my electric kettle. I heat it twice, and then use the heating time to prepare my clothes (if I'm going out), or get breakfast.
Having trouble placing your accent. Where areyou from?
Hi Mary, I'm from Québec but I speak mostly English now so it's a pretty funny accent I guess :) Thanks for checking out the video, hope you enjoyed it!
Great! Thanks for sharing what has worked for you.
Hello There. Thank You Much for sharing such an importand gear with all of us!
Thanks for making this list: Very useful! Where did you get the little magnets? We have a hard time finding some with a little loop like yours. Thanks!
Wow these are AMAZING recommendations!!! Thank you
Awesome! Thanks for the tips👍👍
I’m also entering the contest for the van 🤞🤞🤞
Thanks for the recommendations and do you know something? I installed a boat foot water pump in the sink, here in Spain nobody knows it for campers (only boats)and thanks to you for an excellent video that you explain it, I decided to install it.... Ah! I love your whale. Thank you so much!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thanks for sharing.
I recognize the smoky air of Kamloops! I really questioned visiting there this past Summer. I will look into getting an air purifier. I love the fan and air pump. I don't have the shower set up like you do so that will be one of my next upgrades. I have the small vacuum but have yet to remember to use it. Thanks for the video.
Excellent advice thanks.
Such a great idea for a video, I appreciate these suggestions!! I added it to my watch list so that I can return to it periodically because I didn't write down the suggestions but want to recall and purchase several of these items.
4:21 +1 on the bug racket! I'm in Florida.
I've never heard of a portable shower like that before. A lot of van lifers could totally use that!
I also didn't know there were electric fly swatters out there. What is so special about them that they need a battery for?
I have the same vacuum haha
Anyone have the model #? All the ones I’m seeing look flimsy and clunky.
These are great videos. Very helpful for viewers and content creators alike 👏
I love this video so much! Full of information!
USA people are funny.
Some of us are extremely funny, your right. Where are you from?
Ty. Funny sounds pretty good these days!
Some of these things aren't at the top of the essentials list. Some like a dehumidifier are luxuries at Van level.
Water storage, food storage and preparation, privacy, personal hygiene including poop and pee control and personal security are all more "essential" than a vacuum cleaner or trick semi disposable flashlight.
Why are we mixing lithium and rechargeable AA energizer batteries in that racket zapper???? !!!1 :(
It was so great to see you guys again! Would love an update on what you have been up to!! :)
you can by usb extension cords for your fan
In my opinion, THE MOST IMPORTANT items to invest in for any vanlifer are those that give you the ability to earn money while you’re on the road and be capable of sustaining that lifestyle. Those items would include: -
1. Laptop/PC
2. Internet Access
3. You’re own website
4. Content creation equipment - writing software/camera/drone/editing software
Everything and anything else is for comfort but pretty useless unless you can sustain yourself with an income.
.
Wow ..thanks for the very helpful ideas because we are camper also..
These are all useful products that I will probably purchase.
Thanks for the quality review.
Thanks Allen, glad it was helpful!
Fantastic video. I have several of these things already for my van, but there are quite a few that I’m going to search for. One thing I need to get is a fire extinguisher. Any thoughts or links for a good one for the van? I have a Transit also.
Oh yeah, we forgot to mention that! We just got a pretty basic small one from Canadian Tire. We also have a carbon monoxide detector and a smoke detector. Thanks for watching :)
I need the freaking links! I had to look for at least an hour for some of the stuff you're talking about. It was a pain.
If you pick the insect racket up do it by the handle . It hurts if you get hold the other pass it to your partner and she " accidentally " presses the button
Good stuff!
Just found your channel !!! Thanks for sharing this and appreciate the tips ! Marianne xx
Happy it was helpful and welcome to the channel :)
What about the toilet.?
I really wish I could enter for the van but I don't have a drivers license
Your video was very helpful. Definitely getting the air purifier. The dehumidifier is an excellent idea. Thanks for your research and tips!
Want to see a "day in a life "video. Please
Useful, thanks for sharing.
Nice to see you guys. Very informative. That is your style and it works. Thank you.
Good info! Thanks!
What a wan, great video.
Thank you for a practical, concise presentation.
I can vouch for #7. Electronic bag zapper!! I have a pink one from tractor supply ($7) and it is amazing! Everyone should have one! Flys, gnats, and I got a couple bees in the house with one small zap
My van has fibreglass shell, not metal though i wish it was
the reflector should go on the outside of the window, not inside.
Liar, i mean half of these I dont believe, sorry
Hello, people, don't forget about cable extenders. Find out what the name lf the usb plug is and then just get an extension cable (make sure you check wheter it is male or female) :)
Get a battery-powered tire compressor from Xiaomi instead. It's cheap, tiny, durable and really easy to use (it can use either PSI or BAR so you don't have to do the math on the road) it's a real no-brainer for vanlife/overlanding
Very nice
Didn't read all comments so somebody probably already commented, BUT, as for the bug thing...the one I have sits on a stand, but its the light that is Everything!!! You just set it up and it attracts in 1 minute!!! Love it
#6 Seagull products, I bought some of their items, the quality is good, the prices are slightly more expensive than Zebra.
Never used a dehumidifier on our travels because we have roof ac. This does make sense for cold weather travel. have used most of the other stuff and would recommend them too except the magnets. they will cause havoc with ones electronics. recommend purchasing a battery load tester and JB Weld to carry on board.
Thanks it's very helpful as I am at the beginning of converting my van and thinking and planing a lot.....
Thanks Matt for sharing.🙂
This is so useful for us in the UK , their are many of us being made homeless by our government's madness . Many of us already live in vans bur at the moment we can't drive them as we have no fuel 🤔
I think I also saw your water filter! I have a Berkey and plan to take it with me on the road for travel. Thanks for your suggestions!!
We use a Black and Decker wet/dry Dustbuster in our Roadtrek Sprinter motorhome. Works great!
How has traveling been through the pandemic? how has covid changed your business? I would love to hear the tidbits you two have learned in this time. awesome video!
some items are missing in description...and links would be useful. Good ideas though!
What is the name of that solar powered generator?
Why not using affiliate links?
dehumidifiers and air purifiers are essentials?
Super products. Thx