Our First Night Car Camping And We Got Told To Move On
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- Опубликовано: 4 июл 2024
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In this episode we go on our very first stealth car camping / micro camping night in Bibury, in the Cotswolds
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Hello happy days , where can I find the link for the raffle please. I’d like to get some tickets 👍
@@asacolgate-fc9hm in the video description/caption 🙏
maybe an awning or a tent to sleep in ? both of you have such positive attitudes , quality people x
@AliB102 it's too static for us right now, we are Travellers who currently like being on the go and seeing new things
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Hi from Baja Mexico. When I lost my home in Key West to a hurricane, I car camped in a Prius for 5 years in 47 states, 22 national parks, and 45 forests. I had a wifi, solar with jackery, made my own window covers. I never stayed in residential areas. I had a topper, caried a toilet tent, and outside chairs and table, full coleman stove. Now Im in a house by the beach , collecting rescue animals
rubbermaid has organizers that go on the back of your front seats with built in desks. I used solar shower on the roof surrounded by shower curtain on a hula hoop
Prius uses hybrid to run heat, a/c, radio...electric inverter
Congrats & take care
That has clearly worked out for you… be well
@@marcialynn3469I live alone, but camp, with my dog in my ford focus estate. I always have the rear seats down and my bed mat and sleeping bag, fold up chair and table plus box with basics - cooker etc in it so I can make coffee or cook a meal even just on a day out..
If I travel to meet up with friends in a small town, I know the discreet car parks there to just sleep for the night in a corner after a meal and drinks..
The absence of even a basic toilet is going to be stressful in the long run.
Use a bottle then .😅😅😅
How do you shit in a bottle😂
They can use a local front garden. 😂
They might choose to stay at campsites with full facilities so that problem will be solved
What I do is I wear a Tescos carrier bag with my legs through the handles. Then I also wear a kilt or skirt pretending to be, in turns, either Scottish or trans (either is good for keeping people away!). Then I get a shelf stacking job in the aforementioned Tescos (let's face it, I'm going to be living in their car park anyway) and, voila, free glamping AND a revenue stream to boot!
Also, on the rare occasion that I dare to venture a mile from a supermarket, I can throw my crap bags in the front garden of anyone who tells me to move on. I hope this helps, you can thank me later. Hugs.
As someone with a Berlingo camper, I hope I can help with some advice!
The net is essential above the cab. We keep pajamas and all essentials up there, small compact camping pillows, blankets etc.
We sleep with heads the opposite way to you so we have our feet near the boot, this allows more width and we put our phones in the cargo net about our head at night. this also allows easier access should you need anything from the cab area where we keep our ecoflow river 2.
- We keep a bivvy loo under the passenger seat for emergencies.
- We use fast-drying ultra absorbent cloths to wipe down condensation off the windows in the morning.
- We try to park up when still light.
- We have a methylated spirit hob from dometic, we have no issues with this. We have metal guards to protect from wind.
- We use our coats at night rolled up on the dashboard, keeps them out the way and holds the blinds more snug against the windscreen
- we always wash up before bed, thats the last thing you want to wake up to! you won't regret it!
- A decent light is essential to avoid draining car battery
- dustpan and brush to sweep out the van each morning helps keep the place feeling fresh!
-Think carefully what you need as we ended up losing a lot of the bits and bobs we bought as they weren't actually used much for example, mini heater. We find that both our bodies and the dog keep the inside of the van getting too cold anyway.
Hope that helps!
Incredible tips thank you 😊
Seconded for ecoflow River 2 its brilliant and recharges to full in less than 60 mins.
This is exactly what we expected from your first night. Have no worries as this is perfectly normal for a first night in a microcamper and it’s actually good for you as you will become super inventive going forwards. The gas stove looked like it was almost empty but we found them to be pretty naff outside. I recently got a Trangia 25 cookset for outdoors. It’s a spirit stove so very dangerous to use in the van but it gets hot and can be used in very strong winds if necessary. Cargo nets hooked against the windows might be an option to stuff clothing etc. Packing cubes for clothes allows you to easily move clothes out of the way en masse. I would certainly look for a way to accommodate a leisure battery with a DC to DC charger. It will take up space but would be a game changer for power management. You might even be able to run an electric blanket if it gets too cold. The blinds are a bit of a faff. They probably help with insulation but that will become the enemy when the summer arrives. I would opt for a thin blackout curtain held by magnets for the front screen and similar for the sides. Magnets are a huge help in such a small space. We brushed our teeth and spat in the bin in our little van. As time passes and you become used to it the fun side will emerge. Whatever you do don’t take too much stuff abroad as you might end up having to dump it to keep sane. If we were doing it all over again we would buy things once we realised we can’t live without them. Our first ever video was called ‘TOO MUCH STUFF’
100% agree with all you have said, and this is after just one night haha! Stuff is the problem as always
Trangia Swedish cookset is a campers absolute must
I love mine….. used safely….. so economical too
Would recommend the non stick for easy clean
@@ThoseHappyDays I bought a nylon rucksack from Aldi , a few years ago and all my clothes for warm/cold weather has to go in that one small rucksack. Spouses clothes bag is even smaller and lighter. He has a pair of Cargo Trousers that turns into shorts. But also has elastic at trousers legs, to stop mosquitoes getting in to bite one’s legs, plenty of pockets in Cargo Trousers. We buy 2in1 shampoo for showering hair and body and Dove soap bar. You can even make cakes and Pizza etc in the small Ridge Monkey. We have the small packets of herbs and spices in one Seal & Close larger bag. If you put your shampoo soap , toothpaste and brush in one of the seal bags it’s so much lighter an you can identify what things are. No room for hair driers or tongs etc. often the W.C at Camp Sites have hair driers. Also Sketchers slip on Trainers etc are a must. We buy our Sketchers cheaper from Gretna Retail Park. You have to consciously think micro right down to Road Maps etc .
The first thing I would do is take out the window sticker that tells the world you are stealth camping and get a roof box for clothes storage. good luck.
I would use Morgan for 6 months of the year in the UK and then travel in the world for the other six. Getting rid of Morgan is crazy.
Thanks to fools voting for brexit, its 3 months then out for three ,its working out when you go when your out so as to head back in winter to say Spain.
I have suggested more or less the same. I will give them about 3 months.
I think they will buy themselves a static caravan. But tell us that they are living in the berlingo🤔🤣🏴.
Selling it as a raffle could raise them over £60k
@MatthewJBD that much what's the fee's?? Can't wait to hear how many tickets sold I bought 4
@@jackwatsonepic626they've already hinted that it's temporary. I don't know why everyone is trying to tell them what they should do 😅 they've said they have other plans moving forward.
I think the two of you deserve so much better. Worried about your health as many car campers say how hard it is on their bodies. Uncomfortable to watch but will stick with you as you folks are two of the most genuine people on RUclips. All the best to you both!
Thank you ✨️🙏
We travel as a couple in an even smaller car and it works. A 12 v car rice cooker that plugs into a power bank is great for easy cooking and we also use a camping stove on a steering wheel table we bought online from Am@zon - just put a fire proof mat (also Am@zon) over the steering wheel and table to protect them from the heat and make sure it's secure and the stove can't slip. We put the steering wheel table low on the steering wheel so it's far from the ceiling. It's really comfortable for one person to sit in the passenger seat with the windows cracked open and cook. If your power bank is up to it, you could use a mini collapsible 600w electric kettle. Good luck!
I can see another Raffle coming soon 🤣
😂
Have to laugh at that comment! 😂 I think it's just a temporary measure to get funds from Morgan for more travels. I'd buy a ticket for the Berlingo!
🤣
I'd buy that for a dollar
Lol
I seriously don’t think this is a good idea downsizing to a car even on a trial run fingers crossed for you 🥰 both
Tip: Get some wind deflectors on the front windows so you can open the windows at night while it letting any rain in.
You definitely need tinted windows in the back!
Wind deflectors on order
Definitely get a roof box . Also a rice maker too cook food . Ive seen other people use them in car.
Hope that gives you some ideas.
Good luck. We watch you every week.
We are the family with 30 disabled dogs in lincolnshire.
So if you near us. Come and see them . Loved what you did with pete. Made me cry .
Thank you.
We have a bungalow converted for the dogs and we all live as one big family lol xx
I agree ... and a rice cooker u can cook loads of stuffs, not just rice. All the best to you two. I am sure it will be easier going forward.
Yes absolutely those mini rice cook pots ,off Amazon/ Temu plug into the car cigarette lighter and you get enough for two in them though they are small , light and compact. You have to figure in weights too.
Oh dear, I think its a big mistake sorry guys
Sorry but think you've made a big mistake, micro campervan are ok for the odd night here and there but not full time living, you will soon get cabin fever, plus you cant stelf camp in that tiny vehicle, your probably be selling it soon
Nonsense. There's no mistakes in life. Only learning experiences 😂😂
Good luck to you both! 👍
I give it 2 months tops,.. this will test the partnership,..Jeneanne already showing signs of early depression.... Cancel Morgan raffle
@@VidzVideo Yes, agree I can see this is more of a commercial for this van company... fair play to them.
This brings back so many memories. I did this for years, never made a show of what I was doing. Sadly I felt it was the people who did that ruined it for others. It was rough but fun although I wouldn't necessarily go back it got me on my feet and gave me a start in life. I didn't cook often. Sometimes on a meths stove. Definitely need to go anywhere not England. Preferably somewhere warmer and where the people are more positive. But if you want to survive doing this you need to be discreet.
I've got an even smaller micro camper, it's a 2003 VW Golf 5door hatchback and, as long as you're sensible about things I find it doable. I've got a quite large roofbox which my spare wheel is stored in at the front, because i'd have to dismantle the bed to get it out of its original well under the boot floor, leaving the back half usable, i've also screwed two collapsible storage crates side by side in it - so I can use them to segregate smaller items or, if I want to carry anything larger collapse.
My bed is made out of half an old wooden double bed base cut to size which fits in the boot with another two collapsible crates underneath for essential storage.
I currently keep the back seat permanently folded and most of the bed set up as there's only one of me using it. I have a two seater futon mattress with a double duvet which are permanently set up, but are covered during the day with a black single fitted sheet for that stealth look to basically hide everything. I made my own insulated window covers.
I've also found wndow wind deflectors to be very handy as, to try to cut out all the condensation, you need to open the windows about an inch at night and the deflectors mask this from the outside world plus they cut out any unwanted breezes coming into the car at night.
I use my single burner gas cooker - like the one you've got on the rear parcel shelf just inside the car which tends to cut out any unwanted wind.
Last year I spent eleven days traveling around Normandy in France.
I hope this info helps you.
John
Well put John ive spent 12 months living in a Honda jazz full Time with 2 dogs, you have to be organised not just head out without thought but once you've got it worked out no probs
A great addition to car camping is a tailgate awning.. fits over the boot door, attaches to the rear wheels.
It gives cover from the wind and rain at the sides of the open rear door. And the awning can be either just rolled up or with poles stretched out as an awning. They have a insect screen which when zipped gives a bit of extra space and air in the back of the car or the awning can be zipped closed as well. They fold up very small. And you can lock the car up leaving it on..
Your large rear door would be ideal for one. It would give you a lot of wind and rain protection.
If you want to go upmarket you can buy a full size stand up in tailgate tent to have a room when parked up in a one spot for a few days..
My other essential I take car camping is a popup shower tent. When up it can be secured to one side of the car and used to dress, wash, as a toilet, and mine is just large enough for me solo to cook in.. they can fit 2 chairs to sit in out of the weather.. they have hooks or lines inside which you can peg a few wet clothes to to dry.. I love having that stand up private space.. and because they fold up flat they can be slid in under or on the bed driving.
Two small fold up chairs and a fold up table are nice for eating outside in good weather..
That's a great idea ..gives you versatility should you want to spend a couple of days in the same place
@@terrynewey5313 The tailgate awning tents aren't expensive nor the popup shower tents... on the latter if searching for one see if each has an open or closeable roof. The first one I bought had an open roof .. but as there were loops 3/4 way up on each side for guy ropes, I just cut some holes in a coal bag and tied it over the top to the loops and it works perfectly 😊
Tailgate awning sounds good - can you recommend one?
@@teebee8905 They are much the same really.. there is a large and small size normally.. I just looked at prices now and Temu seem to be the cheapest.. they have free postage - in Ireland anyway..
If you google Tailgate tents you'll see a few of them. I can't remember the brand I got - it's brown - very like the Temu one..
@@teebee8905 recdcote leisure quickstop awning. You can see it on RUclips
Use lids when cooking. Speed things right up.
Needing the loo in the middle of the night? How do you deal with that? and condensation will be a big problem I’d imagine 👍🏻
I normally have a bottle to have a pee or just go behind a bush but when I got the runs in the middle of the night once I jumped out totally naked, grabbed a plastic tub with a lid and quickly went behind a bush just in time. I hope Iwon't have to do that again.
@@teaernuk not so easy peeing in a bottle for the ladies 🤔
Also what if you are taken ill ?
Needing the loo very quickly ?
I think get ti warmer climates asap .
I think Janine will get ill like living in Freda . Also Liam will stop being so comfortable at night again .
Get an add on /awning for the Berlingo .
I think it’s amazing but there will be consequences .
Happy safe travels 💚
I have one of those single ring stoves in my allotment shed. I have learned the colder the weather the lower the gas pressure. A cup of water in the kettle can take a while on a cold day….
Are you living in the Berlingo because you have to or because you want to?
Hi there, just a thought, especially with Janine’s love of dogs, have you considered joining trusted house sitters? you could combine your adventures with a little rest/ looking after someone’s home and pets. I am planning on doing this when my daughter goes to uni next year. Whatever you decide I am sure you will enjoy the journey. Thank you for sharing your lovely adventures ❤
Vacuum flask for excess hot water (when your kettle finally boils) or to fill with coffee /tea for the journey. Also vacuum travel mugs for your morning brew, they will keep your drink hotter for longer and you can travel 🤣 with them if you have to make a quick exit! A small induction hob running off a power bank will enable you to cook inside away from the wind. Good luck.
Absolutely a flask is a necessity.
Put limo tint film on the inside of the rear windows you can still see out clearly and hardly notice the difference , will still need window covers at night but people can't see the covers even with silver side out to reflect the heat so they don't think anyone is inside.
For the windscreen and front windows use a black blackout curtain, at night it just looks dark in the van/car.
Roof box?
Karcher window vac?
2kw diesel heater?
We've got a Ford Transit custom Devon Firefly hightop swb automatic, have a look, might suit your needs better.
Add side panels to the cooking area, held in place with magnets. They can be rolled up when not in use
I was going to say the same but you beat me to it so I'll bump your post instead
Sorry guys after Morgan it's a non-starter, I'll give you a week, but it's great that you are trying it
REALLY important get a Ridgemonkey (means you can cook anywhere and does a brilliant toastie as well as loads of other stuff. Tinting on your back windows making it not so obvious your in there.
She pee for emergency wees.
Remember to fill your flask before bed, for that early morning cuppa in bed.
Oh and you can get window boxes for citreon berlingo
The Problem with Alcohol is that you're permanently in charge of a motor vehicle...even when you're sleeping...!
Good luck, guys. My tip get rid of the gas and hob, compromise on a large 2000watt power bank [Afrey]. It will allow you to cook with an induction hob charge all phones etc, run a small heater, and a kettle, hair dryer. Will change while driving and you can get the additional foldable solar panel.
Howard.
Those bistro cookers scare me! Mine flared flames out of the side. Loads use them in berlingos but I don't trust them.
That's why they suggested an induction hob 🤗@@lizp7248
with a micro camper there's only really enough space for a much smaller power bank. In mine I ditched the cheapy stove for a better quality gas stove that would run off of coleman c500 bottles. Also because the power banks charge from the 12v socket in the car they really can't charge fast enough because you're lucky if you can charge at 60W, the Berlingo ECU limits how much current the 12v socket provides. You can;t even do a split charge relay in these because of the smart alternator so you wind up having to stick a leisure battery under the passenger seat and a dc-dc charge controller.
@@misterthegeoff9767 you did right, I'm looking for a good quality remote cannister stove after a scary incident with the bistro one.
How do you charge a 2000W power bank on the go?
Maybe get a roof box for extra storage
Totally agree, one of the best things I bought for my car so makes so much room in the car to sleep etc. Also because there are 2 of you maybe get some rain guards on windows so you can wind windows down slightly. Just saying
@@helenlizzystewart4908 Heko wind deflectors are the best for those front windows, then you can leave them open a crack and avoid condensation
roof box will take the van over 2m, which will reduce places to park
Roof tents? Leave the inside for your stuff and day living
Roofrack storage box needed and tinted Windows 😊
Despite some negative comments, I think most of us agree that you are 2 amazing modern day adventurers😊 the micro camper is definitely the wisest choice given your current situation, and worth a try! Your sense of humor is just legendary... "I feel like a baked potato" 😂😂😂 there is just nothing that can bring you down! You are my heroes😄 long live our Happy Days!
Well said 👏👍
🙏❤️
I haven't been in one of those mini campers, but i have been homeless with 6 children in a small van. I found that those bags that you take the air out of them, brilliant! I also kept one for dirty washing. With the tail lift i had a tarpaulin around it, for when i was on a site or somewhere suitable. It means more room and kept the draft and weather out. Good luck, and Blessings to you both XXX
Thanks so much for the tips 🙏✔️
Sleeping in a car because you can't get a hotel or just a cheap overnight is fine, but no way can you live out of a car.
thousands of people are doing it now, so yes you can.
@michellec8273 I wish them well. Just seems like a huge contrast from being in a van.
I’m sure that they will combine the two like also staying at e.g a Hostel or cheap hotel partly.
Carbon monoxide detector??,
This is a good point. They need two
I agree with most commenters who have expressed doubts about the viability of this new venture. Also, you have to put yourselves in the shoes of the residents. You may be enjoying your "stealth camping", but just imagine if there were another 5, 10 or more doing the same.
I live in a pretty village in Tuscany. It gets a lot of traffic at the weekend. I love to share this place with people who come for the day, take their photos and then leave at the end of the day. If someone set up camp outside, I don't think I'd be so welcoming. There is a camper area about 10km away, all the facilities needed to enjoy and at the same time be respectful. You are walking a fine line,
They’re super brave. One person sleeping in the back of a car is bad enough, two just makes it a Herculean task. Pray no one lets off a gargantuan fart 💨 whilst cooped up in the vehicle.
🤣🤣🤣
Lots of beans on the vegan diet 😂 recipie for disaster 😉
I know you can both make anything work ❤❤. A channel to watch for ideas is Lady Bugout. She has a very small van but with great accessories. Hope this helps. I’m excited for your new adventure 🎉
Think you should get a roof box. Or a roof tent and sleep above. Don’t know how expensive that would be.
In the windows at the back get Velcro netting to put clothes behind in window bit. ❤❤❤❤
After 10 years of micro camping a few ideas. If you can afford it use farm campsites with facilities, then you can use a rear enclosed awning for the Berlingo. Or a utility tent from Towsure, the Quest eilite. For cooking when wild camping or outside off road side use a Coleman petrol stove. You can buy a single or double one, we have used them for years when motorcycle camping and cycle camping, really powerful, they work fine on unleaded fuel with the filter. Get some swiss aluminium bottles for fuel, you can fill them from a pump, really cheap compared to gaz. Use cushions to store clothes and sleeping bags. You can buy tinted shades which attach permanently to the windows for privacy. Get some magnetic hooks and lots of small bags to contain toileties, mugs,, cutlery,, chargers. note pad ! pens, etc. etc. Get a bag to hang over the steering wheel. Probably the best storage for lots of extra stuff woulf be a roof box. We could not have managed without it.
You are absolutely right, it is very doable but you need to be super organised. The municipal campsites in France are much cheaper. Aires are good but campsites enable you to put that awning up to give you additional space to get ' stuff ' out of the car.
I think the biggest challenges are:
Moisture
Heat when its cold
Proper cooking
Keep it organized
Keep it clean
Self-care
Very small space (less stuff)
No toilet and only very tiny fresh water
Some solutions I can think of:
A small camper roof window to not get moisture
Roof coffin (but will need to fit correct with the window) or roof tent / normal tent
Boxes that you can move to the front seat
Enough small gas bottles
Water bottles
But yeah, my conclusion is: weekend is fine. But any longer would be to small for us ❤
Take care going to warmer places. it's going to get scarily hot in there.
I also feel “a big mistake’ and send a sorry too. Why not a trial run first? You have to have a comfortable place to live in , even after a days travels. I still can’t imagine that a small van in the UK in Fall or Winter would be my only home…too cold, damp and dreary. XXX
They usually travel in India in the winter and leave their vehicle in the uk. At the moment they plan on full time car camping but they usually go to Asia in winter. So perhaps this vehicle will be kept for years to come, and used from April-Sept perhaps? ❤ They will get used to it and get the right stuff as they go along. Rome wasnt built in a day. It's early days for them. I feel it's fine to use supermarket facilities as they always shop there, buy from the cafes and contribute to the supermarket food banks ❤
Also we don't know what the future holds. Re they might go to a campsites with cooker, laundry and shower facilities to give them a helping hand. ❤
it sounds like this *is* the trial run. They are still living in the larger van while the raffle is going on and this way they have time to find out if this works or they need to upsize to a vivaro or something. The micro camper market is strong enough that if this doesn't work they can sell it for the money they have into it and with 80+ days left on the raffle that's enough time to convert a small van from scratch.
I agree with all of your comments❤️ I just think of Janine’s cough when it’s cold UK weather and Leon’s discomfort in Freda’s short bed space. I was imagining them opening a Yoga/Healing centre somewhere - possibly India . Let’s just wish them all the luck with their new adventures 👌 I am not a travel/adventure lover but can see it’s allure …and think of the great memories they will have whatever they do.
@@patriciadavison1486 they go to india in the winter so the issue with janines cough is solved as it's nice and warm in the indian winter time. Liam did the best test in the car and the bed was bigger than in freida. I ran yoga retreats in India then then the covid hit so had to stop running them. Then I wanted full freedom post covid so now I do wot Liam and janine do....re live on the road with a RUclips channel. It's far better than having a retreat centre. I'm sure Liam and janine feel that too as ya too bogged down with a centre. Ya can do wot ya want on the road.
You’ve got your thermal screens round the wrong way, should be silver side facing out.
A few helpful pointers-
Jetboil stove with a converter for 'normal' pans.
Dry bags/stuff sacks with the rollover clip tops for clothes etc.
Double sleeping bag! If your present bags are the same, they should zip together.
Just putting a saucepan lid on would have made a huge difference as all the heat was lost out of the huge opening. Im very intrigued on your journey with this camper car/van/micro camper i saw it on Dragons Den and had my reservations. Some sort of sides that come down from the boot door when its open might help.
get berlingo tailgate tent ....pull up somewhere private and you can shower in there .....cook when its windy ....itll give you a bit more space when you need it .....
yeah, at least a place where they can stand but not out in the open
Throw pillow covers stuffed with your clothes. A homey but practical touch to your seating area ❤
Cool idea, car camping! Extra addition would be a clip on awning, when the back door is opened, for cooking, and for needed to go to the loo , for privacy!
Hi guys! I do carcamp every now and then in a slightly smaller car. So you asked for tips/tricks...
The cargo net is a must, especially during converting to and from te bed. Mine is attached to the roofhandles so its very sturdy.
The cooker you can improve by buying a little square that will directly block the wind around the burnerbit. Bought it on a certain Chinese site😉
Buy packingcubes for your clothes, they organize and the more expensive ones do even compress your stuff.
The 'windowshelves' you could utilise by sticking fabric baskets or packingcubes with velcro on there when you're in sleeping mode.
I don't have a roof box but if you're full-time living in there with two it could be a lifesaver.
To make sure you have got power to charge your phone get a little foldable solar panel and two decent powerbanks so you always have one charged (through the car by driving or the panel).
They als say if you want to be stealth...cook somewhere else then where you're going to sleep.
I've enjoyed your episode and I'm sure you'll make it work once you've found your way around the car. Looking forward to see the next episode. Good luck guys!❤❤
Good advice especially cooking away from where going to sleep if likely to be a sensitive area.
Thanks so much for the tips ❤️
As you've found out, wind can really slow down cooking times. If you do have space for an extra stove, consider a Trangia cooker, that can work on either methylated spirits or gas, and whose design is very windproof. My daughter and her partner car-camp extensively around the UK, as digital nomads, and a Trangia is what they use.
All the best with your new venture.
I like to have as many options as possible. I carry a small wood burning camping stove and a trangia burner and put the trangia burner in the wood stove if I am using meths, and a jetboil for when I just need a brew in a hurry, that works off the same gas bottles as my main gas stove. that way whatever fuel I might run out of and not be able to find more of I have another option.
Bought a ticket now. Love the confidence to try something new, but knowing the journey you went through to get Morgan and something big the size for Liam’s ‘length’ - I’m not sure how you’ll cope in a car camper. Mid winter, cold, damp, no room.. but for summer fun I get it. Good luck whatever happens.
Yes fun in the summer months ❤ they usually go to India in the winter so no need for them to car camp at that time of year
You guys need a Luton Van type stealth camper that looks just like a normal removals van.👍
🤣🤣🤣
😂😂❤
I think there's a raffle for one somewhere.
Guys, you need a roof top box tent, they are amazing, £2000 will buy a great one. You can have the van space for leisure, relaxing and eating, editing etc and the rooftop tent for sleeping. They fold up and down with ease and have lots of space, game changer for car campers
You’re going be told to move on quit a lot. 😊
I HD a bongo and it was small but it had a counter and sink, I got small tent for bathing and changing. Join the group on tube for help., technical and practical. Stealth is tricky, Be prepared for a getaway in case of bother. Keep keys at hand, car facing out, drivers seat empty. Good luck and travels.
Hey. I've just moved out of my Ford kuga. I lived in it for 2 years. But I've just done the opposite. I've moved into a van now 😊. Tinted windows are a must. I also used black shower curtains. The moisture can make normal curtains grow mould. Shower curtains I got from b&m. I used a fishing bed because the legs are adjustable, so if you're on an angle, you can make your bed level lol. I used a energizer power unit from argos be warned though. It takes 5 to 6 hours to change that thing from flat. I used a jet boil to boil water. Much quicker. Wind deflectors, so you can crack the window a touch to help reduce condensation. I miss how cheap it was in the car. I'd still go back to living in a car. Yes it's a bit tight, but you can always just step out to reset yourself. When I did get spotted people used to talk to me about car camping. You become a holiday rep lol. I felt I could stay in more places in a car. I have kids and they used to come stay in it with me on camp sites. They loved it. I'm a bit jealous of your setup. Looks well smart. 😊. Enjoy guys. Oh. I got a folding toilet from temu. With toilet bags. Used for emergencies only lol.
Great tips thank you
People are less resistant to Berlingo cars , than they are to vans of any size.
Well done for giving it a go and providing a funny and honest account on your first try of car camping. I think if people are comparing it to van camping it will fall short on a lot of levels just like comparing a Lamborghini to a fiat but if you compare it to tent or roof tent camping I would say it’s a winner as u don’t have the stress of putting up and taking down a tent in the rain and wind and you can go to alot more accessible places and are more secure. It’s all about learning from experiences and it’s only a mistake if u don’t learn from it and keep repeating it. Hope u find ways to make it work for u. 🎉Good episode xx
Well said
This is not going to be any fun at all when things get wet and cold but good luck to you both
By the way swinging the cat is it's a type of whip used on ships which is called a cat nine tails
Thank you for removing the awful image associated with swinging a 🐈 😊
Massive mistake guys, you had a home in morgan, what your trying is just silly.sorry but its a no no.
they can't afford to keep it.
You have to make changes and take risks in order to follow your dream. They said its temporary and they needed a car anyway. I can understand what they are doing. Leaves them money to maybe buy a little property abroad in the sun to live in half a year, then some money to buy a cheaper campervan or motorhome for UK living. I sold my UK home and bough one in Spain, which I have plans for but a large caravan here to live in. I'm following my dreams, plus I'm sure they have assessed and analysed the situation with its positives and negatives and plan accordingly. They are a smart couple and they know the path they want to choose.
Morgan was the other mistake, like i said 2 years ago.
You are one of the most adaptable couples I have ever watched on RUclips, You are truly amazing and inspiring and nothing seems to faze you both,
Although some comments have said it's a mistake, as you both know Nothings a mistake in life just a experience and adventure with alittle learning curve thrown in for spice 😉
I've only just found your channel in the last couple of months but already I think your both truly inspirational and positive role models for anyone wanting to do this crazy lifestyle,
One that note I have just had a volkswagen crafter van converted into an off grid campervan and looking to start my journey into vanlife 🚌
All the very best guys for wherever your travels take you 🙋♂️
Thank you that was lovely to read thank you
At 35:24 by Liam’s head that grey plastic opens i think and that’s where you clip your cargo net.
Also as people suggested, get a roof top box.
First I also thought it was a mistake to go so small but I think you will be fine, once you spend a few days in it and figure out what works and what not. ❤
Im not convinced this is the best plan. Dont want to be a negative nancy but i cant help but feel its going to add stress to you both. Im hope im proved wrong about it! I just sense lots of stressful times ahead
Even the way she was cold. No...
It won’t be cold on Costa Del Sol or Europe , but it will be hot , so they have to prepare for that. It’s about life’s Journey. Ghandiji travelled the world light. Jesus said “take no script..” in other words travel light . If you allow possessions to possess you how can we become Cosmopolitans who have independently seen the world. If they don’t do it now, they never will.
Think it’s a big mistake if it’s long term but short term for the summer. You would hate winter in it.
A suggestion for the cooking and when you are sat in back is to get a wind shelter that hangs down from your tailgate when it’s open. You could also hang a privacy curtain from it so you can use the loo. A roof box would be a big help Vacuum bags for clothes in various sizes. Lots of things you can do. One or two small power banks. Solar panels. Be the first to have a solar panel on a top box.
Hey both, my partner and I spent 3 months car-camping around America last year. If you need any advice, feel free to ask. But trial by fire is the best method.
Biggest piece of advice: arrive late, leave early. Don’t hang around where you plan on camping because locals will spot you. Wait till they are asleep. We very rarely set up our bed until the very last moment. Up and gone. Not one knock in 3 months.
Nice to hear, thanks guys
That size of camper would be ok for short trips, but you would need a main abode to store most of your belongings.
You need window cupboards. A few companies make them for Berlingos. Expensive but give you lots of storage. Roof box for bedding etc. Also I'd ditch the toaster and get a Ridgemonkey toastie maker. it's a compact fishing brand pan, & you can cook all sorts in it. Cook on a low heat & keep flipping the pan over so you dont burn stuff.
A tiny jet boil stove would boil water really fast. Check out cheaper copies like fire maple.
My bistro cooker, same as yours cooked things really quickly. Check yours is working properly. Do be careful though as the gas can flare out of the side of those. Keep the extinguisher right next to it, and cook outside every chance you get.
The window cupboards are great idea and I messaged them a link - good idea on ridgemonkey. I think the foldable pans with silicone bit are not very heat efficient compared to all metal but you don’t know until you try things.
We use ridge monkey pans , they are great for a number of cooking styles. The deep one, we tried to use as an oven but unfortunately we burnt the bottom of the pan and now it has a huge bulge in it…still a working progress..haha or not!
The window boxes we got are from chapel motor homes , we got the unfinished ones at £150 for the pair . We just varnished them
@JustForTheWeekendVanLife ooh I have cupboard envy! I'd love the Chapel ones! I use my toastie maker in the house a lot. I cook all sorts in it. It's great for cooking frozen pasties without putting the whole oven on!
@@JustForTheWeekendVanLife The window boxes look really good way to extend storage without losing space in van if that makes sense.
@@ramblingrosevanlife They are, we store tinned food, porridge pots, teabags, coffee, cutlery tray etc . You could also store toiletries, anything really. Plus it looks more homely. We also have put hooks on them , useful for hanging jackets, torches, car keys etc
I’m new here so naive. Main thing is you’re happy and healthy. You have the mindset to be happy without much organisation. I love a hot bath every day, and a toilet and regular food. I’m eager to learn how you manage. Have you left belongings at someone’s house, where will you wash yourselves and your clothes. You had such a small dinner then no breakfast. I know, I know it’s not my business but aren’t you hungry. It’s great that you are heading to warmer climate, I so admire your spirit, I’d be so anxious but you are the opposite and find freedom in travelling towards new adventures.
Being x carpers, we are used to very small spaces.
A. Get tefal red spot pans, they wipe out really easy with kitchen roll, then just use an alcohol wipe. Done in minutes
B. Pack your stuff in kits, electronics, toileting, hygeine, kitchen, etc. it makes them easy to find it all. Use different coloured bags each kit and or laundry etc.
You can simply buy portable 12v slowcooker or ricemaker 🤔
Sense of humor is everything. Well done.
It definitely helps. As regards Bibury, it's a very pretty village. Shame about the people though.
@@AndriyValdensius-wi8gw. They are very stuck up people off bibury, 😊
@@phillipcarter8045 kind of get why though, imagine your town/street being flooded with hords of tourists every single day, all the parking spots completely full all the time touring buses going through and parking, noisy tourists peeking through window etc.
I hate to say it after you have spent so much money for that layout. That only suits a campsite with a drive away awning. I have had 5 berlingos so know how spacious and pratical they are. The only layout, in my opinion, thats works where you can both remain in the car, cook in the car, wash in the car, go to the loo in the car and get changed in the car is the side kitchen option with a bench seat opposite the kitchen that slides out to a bed in seconds. Hope you get sorted and enjoy your travels
No with Liams back he needs that’s space , not sharing it with a kitchen, or it couldn’t work.
The wind is only a small part of the problem. The gas canister is too small. You'll notice it is ice cold to the touch after its been in use for a while. As it gets colder it delivers less and less pressure and your flame gets weaker. The design is for emergency mostly and doesn't like the cold. You'll notice if you either change the canister or put the can in warm water the flame will improve drastically.
Using canisters with a mixture of butane/propane work better when it's cold 🥶 x
To the guy that told you to move on... WTF... I would tell him to jog on....I don't know if I could go from a big van to a car but respect to you. God bless you 🙏 in your travels.
Agree ,he was just so full of class entitlement, and he isn’t paying their Car Tax to be there.
Well you two are not afraid of a challenge! Good luck… this is going to be an education for all of us!
I cut bubblewrap to fit all the windows. That gives privacy but light in the daytime, acts as insulation and prevents condensation on the windows. My blackout covers jam in over them at night.
Another consideration is keeping the car cooled in hot weather when parked. I use black curtains made for cars with magnets sewn in. Using them in the day you can leave all the windows open when camped and they are do quick to put up inside or on the outside. I use them or the night blackout ones when gone from the car on hot days and a space blanket over the roof helps too.
What you guys need first of all for cooking is a shroud round or square that fits over the top of the cooker but allows your pans to set on the stove..... or make a three-sided shroud which you can cover three sides of the cooker depending on which direction the wind is coming from.... you will soon be cooking quickly with that.
The moulded shelf by the back window you could design some permanent fix soft storage.... just unzip it and stuff in your jackets bedding cushions whatever...
The problem with that van which is ok by the way... it's not a complete strip out and refit so you're not utilising every bit of space... the factory fitted panels will have a lot of fresh air in them which you would otherwise utilise....
Keep going you'll get there.... I used the high roof long wheelbase Transporter with a bed in the roof for a long time.... but have used a caddie maxi kombi van for some time now and it's so much better because you literally can park anywhere quite discreetly.... you could create some advertising panels for the bat windows like you had on Morgan... people tend to ignore commercial looking vehicles as you know.
I have an ex forestry vehicle which still has the flashing light on the roof and no one ever knocks whether in Devon or Scotland.... blessings to you both🙏 John
Think if you were in a warmer country car camping would be great. With an awning on tailgate and a roof top box all will give extra space for storage.
What if weather is terribke, you can't stand and stretch, no hairdryer Janine. Good luck guys. Exciting and adventurous times ahead. You will have loads of fun in between laughter and tears.💚
It's crazy that you spent all that time in India and were welcomed every where you went and were asked to move on before your first night back home! 🤦♂️
Hi adding a detachable awning when the back door is open, for wind free cooking would benefit! And somewhere to pee in the middle of the night if needed! Lol!😂
No sorry not for me guys, I want more space but it’s going to be interesting watching you. Prettiest but most unfriendly town. Good luck guys, I am enjoying this. Oh did you get pillows? Where will you put other things, maybe a tiny trailer. LOL. Cheaper on fuel. Stay positive you can do this, it’s just me who couldn’t. 💕
Definitely get a roof box - it will make a huge difference and you won't have to keep moving things around to get to your stuff.
I do trips in a micro camper (Long Wheel Base Peugeot Partner Van - in my opinion vans are more discrete than cars for vanlife) and basically you have to learn to live outside and view the van as a place to sleep and store things. If I was in your position I would definitely move to a warmer place like Spain or Portugal where everything is cheaper and the weather is warm all year round. As a number of people have said a roofbox is vital for microcampers (you can even store it inside the van/car when doing very long drives to improve mileage then put it back on the roof rack when you reach your destination).
Putting it inside at times is a great idea
@@ramblingrosevanlife I have a pretty massive XL roofbox which kills mileage - about 20% reduced MPG. It has quick releases and I put it inside the vehicle on long journeys save myself £££.
Car camping is great if you want to go on holidays but cant afford to pay for accommodation or even a campsite. If you have a roof rack, without buying a roof box , its possible to use any waterproof bag strapped up there with soft items in it...
I know many people are forced by circumstances to live in their cars and it's certainly better than being without a car and homeless, but I am fortunate to be able to just camp or holiday in mine.
1, Roof box
2, Proper 2 Burner +grill cooker with a small proper, refillable gas tank. This can be made to fit in a slide out box at the back
Window tints
Better blackout blinds with good insulation
Heater, diesel perhaps? Gas produces too much moisture.
Leisure batteries , power bank
Solar panels to charge can be mounted on the roof box.
Awning with a set of chairs and a table. Thus lets you sit outside and stretch not cramped in the car.
An awning or tent to cover the back when cooking. You haven't had to try and cook in the lashing wind and rain yet
Toilet/shower tent?
Maybe a teardrop trailer would have been better than the conversion, which is really only a weekend getaway idea and hardly new.
Either way folks, good luck
How about a roof box for non essentials, get a screen vac for Windows, then use vacume bags for clothes ❤, instant extra space. Xxx
I agree - a roof box is an excellent idea and can put alot of non essential items.
Also you can cook in a rice cooker - another you tuber living in a car has a small rice cooker and cooks one pot meals in there (not just rice).
And install a pop top roof for the poor guy
I agree also, as it maximises all their needs n requirements, xxxx
@@charmainegray1333they would be limited to getting in car parks and under barriers then. Might as well got a van again
@@cafc1ormy this is true, atm we can get in 2m car parks which we have already found to be everywhere...with the roof box we couldn't
Hi to ya both , years back when roughing it in a similar small wagon , we got a seamstress to make us a curtain that went around the lifted tailgate , it fixed to the top with nagnets and had a small chain soen in the hem to weigh it down , we put a ratchet strap around the lifted tailgate and hung a ' sea to summit ' decent solar shower bag , it wasn't luxury or a power shower , but hey it's a shower and it worked . We got ourselves a similar stove but it was the japanese one sone use for woks , it kicked out heat and flame like a jet fighter and was good quality . Another thing maybe worth considering is a few of the larger moisture absorbing pouches , easy to maintain . Another thing I noticed was you weren't using a lid on your pot ! A lid is a must to retain heat and use maybe 30% less gas . Best regards to you both going forward .
Hi just a note about the mini butaine cooker you have, the canisters wont work well if cold (cold conditions) and as used they get colder and the gas pressure drops right off , what we do is make sure the canister is warm before you use it ,we actually put it in hot water to get the gas warm and pressure up, as it drops of again and the canister is freezing agan just take it off and warm it up and you will get it to work well again
Thanks for tip. I found giving canister a good shake helped ‘perk’ it up but will try warming trick
Janine, just get jetboil and close the doors and open windows a bit , you will see works perfect. I and my hubby used to have many many nights sleep in and have holiday in Toyota Estima Lucida, ofcourse it was a bit bigger vehicle but you can cook, make delicious meals in every vehicle. I think just need to be open minded and try what works and give up what doesn't work. But don't get stress. Look after yourself girl. You be fine.
If you has a power bank and a single induction hob it would cook quicker for you and you could even shut doors in the back because there would be no gas fumes to worry about single hobs are about £50
I did think you were both very brave trying car camping .We never know in life until we try.Wish you all the best ✌💖
Hi Janine and Liam...if you buy some velcrose and small fabric boxes/pods that can be folded down when not in use. Put a velcrose strip on the shelf and the corresponding Velcrose strip on the bottom of the fabric storage box/pods and then these can be used to put your bits n bobs....ie your phones, wallat, toothbrush, comb, bobbles, hats, scarves and gloves, even your change of socks underwear in. The velcrose will keep the boxes in situ on the handy shelf Janine pointed out. I saw another person living in her car do this. You can also stick hooks on in handy places in the car and dangle fabric storage pods from them. Just some thoughts. Good luck you two.
Liam, how about magnetic hooks for the cargo net? When you put the back door up, you can cover it with a shaped tarp to go to the ground. That gives you a wind/ rain proof place to stand and cook. Ive done this and it’s great. It also gives you a good spot to wash and dress which is not convenient lying down. 🙏💖
Be careful with those window coverings. You may be stealth during the day, but at night you will shine like a literal beacon. Your lights from inside will sine through those little circles where the sucker things go and also around the sides if they aren't fitted snuggly.
I car camped with my 12yo for 2 weeks last summer. We made our own setup and bought an inflatable mattress, which was made to fit the back of my SUV perfectly. Once you get organised and into the swing of it, it's great fun. You have to make sure no loght can spill out, though, or you WILL get 'the knock' way more than you would like.
I'm just curious. You don't have to answer if you don't want to. But you've had the micro camper for a week, in that week how many nights have you stayed in it. Apologies if you already mentioned in the video. If you have how have you got on?
Hi, I have a Berlingo as well, and car camp. I would recommend front window wind deflectors, it allow you to drop the windows down, to allow air circulation. I agree, to tint the windows. Space is a premium, you can the use offside rear window, build a storage area on the window ( seen this on RUclips. PS I only use by myself, the rest of the space has all my canoeing/wild camping gear in boxes.
Enjoy your micro camper.
For the window shelf, screw in a plastic/wooden cross piece (so it ends up like a spice rack) with one or two slats; so you can still get light through the windows. If you want to put in small items that might fall through, make a netting material overlay, either permanently fixed, or one which can just be slipped over. And make sure you have good dehumidifiers.. smaller spaces get more condensation with bodyheat. How are you going to cook on rainy days?
Entertaining the number of people watching a vanlife/travel/freedom RUclips channel and getting triggered about people sleeping in a van 😂. It’s not like they are sleeping in the back of a Vauxhall Corsa 😅. Btw maybe some sort of jet flame cooker would be better, as the flame is much more wind resistant and can make a cuppa in no time!
Wow! it is a huge adjustment to smaller living eh. Perhaps an awning for over your back door? I have just got a Peugeot Bipper! It's just me and I'm 5' 5" so just enough leg room with the passenger seat pulled forward and down. I was thinking it would be a squash with just me but 2 of you... a definite challenge in the organising stuff field. I can understand why you didn't get much sleep Janine, my brain would have been buzzing with thoughts and potential solutions etc.. Happy wheel camping folks :D Namaste xx
We love you 2. Stay positive and don't get sucked in by the negative. You are both really young and need to enjoy yourselves. Think how life would be for 2 people living homeless on the streets . Now look at what youve got and drink in the freedom. If you're in the uk sign up to a national budget gym chain for hot showers, toilets and maybe a little work out!! You can cancel straight away when you go abroad. Much love Si and Share 2 old hippies in the west midlands Xx
You are absolutely on the same page as us, thanks for that 🙏
Well from going from a big van to a small van is very difficult. When we did it in our car we used to have our dog with us too. But we only did it Thursday to Monday. Best place for you to go is France Spain or Further. It's hotter and you can park on the beach and Aires so can sit out side and cook. Think I would of rather brought a van and had a sofa bed more room
For boiling water quickly it`s hard to beat a jet boil .Also you can buy camping cooking pots with heat exchangers attached to the bottom of the pot.
Magnets to fix net to roof of the van. Get a top box and roof rack, to fit stuff you need but not everyday. Xx
I hardly ever comment on youtube but the Berlingo camper is my special interest! These cars are great. I'd say that one person could stealth camp, but you cant be getting all your cushions & kit out at the roadside. For 2 people, living in it is a big challenge, but that's the idea isnt it! It's a perfect mission for a vlog! Think you'll need more campsites where you can safely expand your setup with day tents etc. There are also safe drives apps & FB pages. Maybe some subscribers might have a drive you could park up on the odd night!