Space Management for Newbie Campers: What We Use Now
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- Опубликовано: 26 июл 2024
- Our Campervan travel needs/gear have continued to evolve over the years. After lots of questions from new or expectant campervan people, I thought I should update everyone on what we are using at this point in time. But most of all, I'm hoping to drive home the biggest tip which is to hold off on making big purchases until you have taken your rig out for a number of trips and get a better idea of what you truly need.
Items mentioned:
Moonshade by moonfab.com
cup holder: cavevan.myshopify.com/product...
Links to items mentioned in our videos (and my camera gear) can be found on my Amazon Storefront. As a participant in the Amazon Associates Program we earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, when you shop from this Amazon portal: www.amazon.com/shop/fromshetome
Music in this video is from a subscription with Epidemic Sound
She is a really cool girl. Any woman that doesn't overpack is ok in my book. Thanks for the work you do making videos
It’s only taken 67 years to figure it out and still learning.
I always bring like 4 extra T-shirts when I go van camping, then end up wearing the same T-shirt the whole time, LOL. I always bring too much stuff, but I like to be prepared for the "what ifs".
I think we all do it. We were pack rats in another life. 😅
Congrats on 3 years sharing amazing info here on RUclips Debbie and John!Have been watching you since day one and look forward to your weekly uploads without fail. Inspiration for all of us!!
Thanks so much. Amazed anyone would stick around but glad you did.
Even as somewhat experienced campers, we still are constantly readjusting what we “need” in our van. (a lot of it is from watching too many youtube videos. 😂) If I want something new, I try to remove something I will no longer need. It’s even better when the thing you remove is smaller than what you added. And I am alway rearranging too. But I’m kind of weird that way. Thanks for the great ideas.
Our best trips are when we have less stuff. Winter is the hardest.
We travelled FT for 1.5 yr. We took way too much clothing. You can always get things along the way if needed. That was our biggest lesson.
I have really appreciated your channel, and have gleaned much: THANK YOU! You addressed not using paper plates, throw away items…we already are making a significant carbon foot print by embracing this type of travel…anything we can do to “leave less of a trace” seems much more responsible. Thank you again
Agree. I stopped using paper/plastic products.
It's easier to pack with "just needs" when I created specific storage bins in the garage just for RV items- this way I could shop in my own stuff depending on trip style. That urge to buy all sorts of things when you first purchase the RV is a challenge. Like you said- go camping first
Helpful video. Go to DollarTree first in provisioning your RV. DT has a variety of bins, trays, utensils, etc. I use two bins from DT for my underwear and socks. And trays for odds and ends with rubber stops on the bottom. Things tend to be smaller there too-travel-sized.
As we fulltime we don’t have the same options to customize for trips. I use compression cubes for the rest of my clothes.
Good tips.
When we first got our teardrop everything we put in or on it (except the most obvious) got a snick of green painter's tape. Then after three/four trips anything with tape still on it was removed. Some back and forth of course but we are now sleek and set.
That's a good idea. Kind of like hanging all your clothes with the hook of the hanger in one direction and if it gets worn it gets turned around.
You are the queen of van organization! Thanks for the review / update. Have a great weekend! 🚐😎
As a side bar..just had strawberry rhubarb pie ala Capitol Reef park views. Because of the both of you it was a yummy experience. Thanks
Wish I were there.
Yes! Your needs definitely evolve! You end up finding out you don’t need much! I’ve found square containers utilize space better than round!
I’m on the lookout for square containers that will work in our space.
@@FromShetoMe I found some on Amazon (about 4 cups). I also found square bpa free spice containers, too. Am I able to send you the link? Or will the post be blocked?
I found the link. The ones I bought are 32oz and 48oz but there are larger sizes too. Air tight so no little furries will try to sample anything. We’re downsizing from a B+ to a Winnebago Revel.
@@lesleeallen5965 Links are blocked but I ok them as long as they aren't spam. You'd be amazed at the links people try to post. Or you can always email me: energymaven@gmail.com
Deb, what a great video. So much valuable and practical information for all campers regardless of the experience level. You present your ideas simply yet with great clarity. Thank you for all your efforts, it is greatly appreciated.
You are so welcome!
I am enjoying watching your videos as we await the delivery of our Pleasure Way Tofino. You have lots of great ideas and my favourite is not running out and buying everything you see! Thanks.
Ahh, always enjoy your videos. Thank you. Blessings
You have made so many helpful upgrades, did experiments that was helpful to not only giving us ideas but expanding on your travel pleasure The moonshade comes in handy if there is a need to shade the refrigeration side of your van also. You my Dear have been a angel to us all. You could do another video and still not cover all your changes. I'm waiting for the install of a lugan table front and back. Thank you for doing what you do so well - sharing !
Thanks. You’re too kind. The table top I ordered for the Lagun mount came so it won’t be too long before I share it. It’s got its pros and cons. Jury is still out.
Your hair looks great that length!
Thanks. The ends are getting ratty but that's what happens as you grow it out.
great honesty about the awning. if its windy then awnings can be an 'issue'
Great video Debbie! I think you were talking directly to me when you said not to buy everything at once, get to know your rig and your travel style first! I too love opening up a cabinet in our little van and still see extra space! Most of my purchases have been off your Amazon store and they are still living in our van, thanks for doing all the testing first for us newbies!
Thank you! One of these days I’ll have to do a video on all the stuff that failed.
Great to see you again. your hair is really growing fast. You are so right in your videos about not buying so much. Every time we come home I have a few things in my mind to remove from the RV.
You are so right, less can be more, and everyone has different needs. After three trailers and a van now, and almost 40 years of travels around Europe, I leave with a minimum and return with every empty space filled with wines, foods, goods....
But honestly, I have never put a toilet brush above a sink 🤣🤣🤣.
LOL. Do you not have bottle brushes over there?
@@FromShetoMe May be there are, but I empty my water/beer/wine/cider GLASS bottles to the bottom, then rinse them, then return them for recycling.
@@camperab They are quite common over here. I think they were first used to clean baby bottles but are useful for cleaning tall mugs that you can't get your hand into.
Great tips. Thanks for sharing.
It was another good video! Thank you!
Good informative video !!!
Great Video. Thank you! Safe Travels
Hi Debbie & John!🙋🏽♀️ Not on the road yet but as always, I enjoyed the video.😊
You’re wonderful! Love your videos, I always learn something new! 🙏🏼 thank you 😊
Very helpful to this newbie. Thank you!
I can't believe it has been three years of amazing and helpful videos. Thank you to you and John for sharing your knowledge and travel with us. We've had our pleasure way for 6 years and I'm constantly organizing/reorganizing. I'm definitely a less is more person but the Blackstone you have is tempting me.
Problem with the Blackstone is I never want to cook outside when it is windy and it’s mostly windy. We use it much more at home. I’ll probably leave it for our summer trip.
Another great video Debbie! As always your tips are amazing and very useful!!
I really enjoy your videos. They are very informative. Your organizational tips are the best! I am definitely going to be tackling the window covering, Warm Window, soon!
Let me know if you get stuck and have any questions.
Thanks for all your continued space/provisioning utilization tips. Validates the journey we have taken packing and reducing space requirement. It's amazing how little you really need. Our camping journal continues to list "take less stuff!" Apply backpacking thinking.
Yes. Backpacking is the best teacher.
Jan and I went out and bought these baskets for our Travato. They work great in the upper storage cabinets as well as over the cab in the “pizza oven” 😊
Great advice Debbie, Just started our RV Journey couple of weeks ago, From Florida to California and Back in 2 weeks.Your insights and suggestions are very much spot on to us Newbies.Thanks a lot, Catch your travel videos next time. Stay safe.
OMG that is a lot of driving.
Another awesome video!! and a perfect timing video. I was going to ask you or look for your older video about the Moonshade. Thank you for the info. Like you, I always buy clothing with hoods when possible.
Debbie, I noticed that you have a lot of "extra space" in the rear overhead cabinet... here's a tip for you...
We roll up a mattress topper and pin sheets to it; and store it across the overhead cabinet.... that way we only have to take down the rolled up unit take off the bungee cords and spread it out.. the bed is literally made up in the time it takes to roll it out and place the seat cushions in place... Probably less than 5 minutes..
I completely understand what you're saying about taking less stuff.....
We put shelf liners on the bottom of the cabinets to reduce any rattling.... plus we have a "guard rail" in the front of the cabinet.... small size curtain rods that you can find on Amazon....
I liked your suggestions about the remote refrigerator sensor and the rubber mat.... the rubber mat lasted 1 year and started to fray...I got another one just because the size is perfect....
How's your refrigerator working?? My Nova Kool is working fine.....
Did you get the additional emissions modification system from Mercedes Benz.... get that done, it will extend your emissions warranty and a lot more including your timing belt...
Maximum time is 10 years and 120,000 miles....
----Mark
I’ve held off on the emissions work; waiting to see how MPG is affected.
Started out with a tension rod in the cabinet but it chipped the laminate.
Fridge is working great. Thanks.
Debbie, it actually is a good idea, you're going to have to do it anyway for CA smog check... plus, there's the extension of the vehicle emissions system warranty and a lot of other stuff, the timing chain etc ....
I just got it done, worked fine and you can submit a claim for reimbursement.. all good.
Great seeing your use of things now. After our last trip to Central Ore. we decided to sell our Blackstone Griddle with the great bag/carrier. Too often it's been so breezy that it took too much fuel and it was easier to cook in the camper for just the two of us.
LOL, I just said the same thing to another person. We use it at home more because I don't like cooking outside when it is windy.
Such great advice. We don't have an RV, but it looks so tempting when I watch your videos. Since I'll be retiring shortly, this might be in our future. Thanks so much for sharing your adventures and your experiences.
Thanks. I hope you do get a chance to give it a try. We sure are having the time of our lives.
\Always love your video. Even though I decided to converted my minivan & not buy an Ascent, for now, your video always provide info that is useful to me. Thank you for greats video.
If I had the skill, I'd be building my own too. You will learn a lot from your first van. And there is always a second.
Thanks for the video and the lessons. Headed back to MD, then jun 1 to MT. Stay safe!
Hope we see you up that way.
Will keep you posted on where we are and when.
Great video. 👍. What was the name of your Patagonia hoodie? Thanks!
www.patagonia.com/search/?q=women%27s%20tropic%20comfort%20hoody&prefn1=refinementColor&prefv1=White
Good job! Your hair is getting really long. You look younger all the time! Have a great week! Love from SC, Jane ❤️🙏
LOL, lighting is everything.
@@FromShetoMe I need to find that kind of lighting, then!😉😊
2017 keystone 248rks
Thank you so much for all your helpful tips we have used so many of them, on our way from central Florida to Mt. Rushmore, SD then Minneapolis area, Iowa,Chicago area then home in June for a couple weeks. We finish off the summer on Lake Huron in Michigan for about 6 weeks. Love our Plateau TS!
We are currently figuring this out - been in the Rpod pretty much full time 3 months (not moving though)!
As always, another excellent video 👍 and very timely for us: We just got our first RV last week, a 2021 Coachmen Beyond 22D van, and have been struggling trying to figure out what we need to bring and how to shoehorn it all in. Thanks so much for taking the time to put out these videos 🥰
Half the fun of a new rig is figuring things out as you go. Finding things as you travel will bring back memories every time you see them. You just need each other...and maybe ice cream.😅
Osprey is a solid brand, love their stuff :)
My garage is starting to look like an Osprey warehouse.
Debby & John, hello, I notice you also use PATAGONIA, good stuff, I notice your paper towel holder, this one really seems practical, source please ?At home & supermarket only have the crappy ones, when you pull it MORE paper than you need ALWAYS comes out , OH are we having STRANGE WEATER, 78^F storm missed us but covered NYC streets with HAIL, then 28^F @night , today FRI-SUN 60-70 MPH WINDS hey diesel reached $4./gal here this year there WILL BE FUEL SHORTAGES , nobody to drive the TANKERS ! Stay well, happy trails 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
The paper towel holder is in my Amazon storefront. But I use a clip to keep them from unraveling when we are driving.
Diesel is over $4 here but it is cheaper than petrol for a change. Yesterday’s fill was $75. Whatever the price, it beats pushing.
@@FromShetoMe hi the paper towel holder was delivered on MOTHERS DAY, hope your mom day was well🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Debbie-what an excellent and useful video from you. Simple things that most need. Three points: (1) love how you keep saying, try it out before buying what we use (think of the big box you bought early to store things-I know people think they need more space). (2) Agree with you, a lot of used RVs will be for sale in 2 years. And (3) Pringles? :).
LOL. The Pringles were left over from when the grand kids were visiting. But they do save space.
good advice, as always-- i found i made the mistake of buying too much gear when i got my first campervan - some things that work well for larger motorhomes do not work so well for smaller ones - at least that was one lesson i learned
It would be fun to have a big meet up where everybody brings all the stuff they bought and didn't use.
Good Morning from Georgia! My Wife Becky and I have been long time subscribers/followers and we wanted to let you and John know how much we enjoy your vlogs! ❤️ Safe travels. 🚐 🚴
Thank you so much. I really appreciate what a great community we have here.
Another Great Video... We can’t wait to test out our new Revel in the next few weeks and camp on the 4th at Fallen Leaf Lake.
👍👍👍👍🚐🚐🚐🚐🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️
That's our grandson's birthday so we may be in Tahoe as well.
Breakout those E-bikes cause we will have our Haibike Full Fat Six’s w/ us... We love our Fat Bikes too...
👍👍👍👍🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚴🏻♂️🚐🚐🚐🚐🚐
Nice updated video - wondering if you ever use your microwave while boondocking? Also, do you have any videos on what to do and not to do while boondocking? Yes, I am a newbie!!
We’ve had lots of issues with our microwave from the beginning. So we rarely use it. If we don’t have hookups, then I usually turn on the generator. I would prefer to remove it and have extra storage but it isn’t a simple matter. PW has it anchored in so many places. As far as boondocking, I don’t have any videos per se. The only caution is to make sure you turn off your inverter when you are finished using any 110 appliance. Make sure you are in a spot where you are allowed to disperse camp. If you are on USFS land, go to that particular Forest’s website and read the rules. Each forest is different. Feel free to email me if you have specific questions. energymaven@gmail.com
Another great video, Deb! Will you please provide a link to your jackets/vests... winter, and shoulder season?
Most of my jackets are Patagonia. I like the micro puff and nano puff jackets/vests. I usually wait until they have a steep discount.
Thanks so much for showing us where you stow things. I just realized that one of the reasons we have less storage space is that we have a wardrobe where we hang our jackets and flannel shirts. We could just roll them up and store them in cupboards - and turn the wardrobe into shelves. Except... That's where the table leg is stowed... Hmmm, will have to think this over. Anyway - keep up the great information - it makes us think!
The first thing we got rid of in our van was the table and leg.
@pasusan
We had adjustable shelves made for our Roadtrek hanging wardrobe and gained a huge amount of storage. Stashed the table leg in one of the long upper compartments. Like Debbie and John, we don’t use the table and should probably banish the leg to the home garage.
Hi Debbie andJohn! Love your videos so much it inspired us to buy our own RV. We also have the RAD bikes. I was just curious what the brand name of your jacket is that you showed us. I think it’s red. It looks super lightweight and that is what I am looking for. It is quilted. Thank you so much!
It is from Columbia. We got it last fall at one of those outlet malls. It has been a great lightweight jacket.
@@FromShetoMe Thank you so much Debbie! I’m in hot pursuit!
Thanks for 3 years of helpful and interesting videos👏👏👏 Great tips and love those soft bins. I agree that having space in the cabinets rather than stuffed full is key to my calm.
I bought some of those exact bins at Target a few weeks ago hoping they fit in our Lexor cabinets. It should arrive in 2 weeks.
I can not find the fabric for the windows. i do love your videos as they are always well spoken and very informative. Thank. You
Joanne’s Fabrics sells it.
@@FromShetoMe thank you I will have to see if they deliver to Australia 🇦🇺
@@hetheringtonfamily8798 Oh my. That would make it outrageously expensive. Joanne's always has 50% off coupons which help but freight to Australia would probably be as much as the fabric. I hope you can find a substitute. Or check the Warm Window website and maybe they have a distributor down under.
@@FromShetoMe thank you I will have a look at the website 😊
I bought 6 yards of Warm Window fabric on Amazon & got it very quickly.
Another great video!👍🏻. What kind of netting is that and how is it attached? Sorry if I missed your video describing this
It's a cargo net: www.amazon.com/dp/B075B6RVYW?ref=exp_fromshetome_dp_vv_d
In camping =Less is more. There's many methods. Choose the method which fits your needs and size of adventure vehicle. For the best light weight gear check out Homemade Wanderlust on YT or Darwin on trail for gear video's from experienced Triple Crown Hikers.
We love Darwin on the trail.
Enjoyed your tips! Where did you purchase the pocket organizers that you store flip flops and maps in? I did not see it in your Amazon storefront.
www.organizedobie.com/Bathroom-Organization
How did you mount your everything keeper? Screwed in or adhesives? Thanks. Love your postings
It is mounted with the adhesive strips that came with the item. However, another viewer said that the adhesive is not working for her. We have laminate cabinets so it sticks very well. I suppose if they are a wood grain, it could be a problem.
Thank you, very helpful to see what you’ve changed since the beginning. Great information and advice, I feel much more prepared when I do buy my campervan. I do have a question, since I would not use microwave either, did you disconnect the microwave so it does not use up any power with the clock, or does it really matter?
Microwave only uses power when/if inverter is on so no need to disconnect.
At about 14:30 you mention removing the panel from the battery, in the trunk, to get more space. Can you please say more about that? What kind of battery was it, what was involved in removing the panel, and how did you get comfortable not worrying that removing the panel would compromise the battery? Thanks.
Pleasureway has a decorative cover over the battery box and it is held on with magnets. They told me it was fine to remove it. It gives an extra couple inches in depth for storage. Basically it hides the box that the batteries are in.
@@FromShetoMe Thanks. That’s super. I’ll follow up with PW to see if the same is true with my model.
Thanks for the video! Just wondering how John manages the cab shelf and the behind seat storage. My husband is also tall--6'3". He drives with the seat all the way back and usually hits his head once a day on the bins. 😊
The cab shelf isn’t a problem. It’s the overhead bins that can be an issue. Even I have done it. I think it is inevitable but we do it less now.
Excellent, who knew it's best to have hoods attached? But it makes all the sense in the world.
what is the most common/ energy efficient microwave/ toaster/ convection oven have you seen?
I’ve looked but haven’t found one. If you do, please let me know.
@@FromShetoMe I am still a 'wanna-b' PW owner and was happy the model I want has a microwave/convection oven UNTIL recently when a refrigeration repairman told me they are trouble looking for a place to happen. To much electronics doing different jobs in such a small space, he said they are designed to fail. :-( So maybe the Omni Oven is still the best solution to baking needs.
Good morning beautiful people! I have question for you, where did you go for your very first trip?
Eastern Sierra/Owens Valley
@@FromShetoMe Hope I can get there soon. I started to practice hitch and unhitch. I call my hitch guy only twice to help me out. I think I'm OK now. Next week I'm going to practice back in parking. Wish luck. Thank you again for your video.
This is very timely for us. Thanks very much. If you had it to do over, would you do the Vancillary DIY again or purchase the aluminum version? Also, do you still find the Anything Keepers useful?
I would do the DIY again because I like having the wood platform. It allowed me to screw in the hardware to hold the cargo net. John is a huge fan of the anything keeper. He keeps his wallet and pocket stuff in there. I use mine for things like bear spray.
@@FromShetoMe Great...thanks!
I notice that you aren’t using the kids hammock behind the back seat in this video. Did you decide it was no longer working or do you not need the extra storage anymore?
That's funny because after I filmed I realized I had forgotten to mention it. We still use it but for some reason, it didn't make it into the van this trip. One of these days I want to set it up as a hammock.
Were those orange recovery track mats in the back? I’ve been wondering if we should have them to keep from getting stuck. Have you ever gotten stuck? I had no idea that you needed so many things in addition to the van. I’ve probably purchased unnecessary items that were recommended.
We’ve not gotten stuck. The down side, as a leveling tool is they are about an inch shorter than the blocks. The reason we still carry them is because they take up less space. I’d say go with the blocks and avoid getting stuck. 😅
I’m sorry to ask I’m sure it’s been redundantly asked but where did you find the table/desk that fits in the front? You’re video has been a wealth of information! Thank you so much
No problem: cavevan.myshopify.com/collections/sprinter/products/sprinter-cupholder-snack-tray-bamboo-and-stainless
@@FromShetoMe thank you so much!
I like your sofa/bed cover. Where can I find it ?
I made it using three flat sheets. Two queen size and one twin.
A question about electric bikes. If you didn't have the RAD, is there another bike or two out there that you would consider? Have you seen one during your travels that has made you think that maybe you would like it instead of your own? Thanks, I really value your opinions.
John has looked at much more expensive bikes but we don’t want to have to worry about having our bikes stolen. That would probably curtail our adventures. If these are stolen it would be a bummer but not devastating. Check out Bolton ebikes RUclips channel for lots of info on ebikes.
@@FromShetoMe Thanks, yes, that's a good thought.....what if the bikes were stolen. I'll check out Bolten.
You can use that silicone bag to do sous vide cooking in your instant pot, as well!
Are you still happy with your 12v TV? Thanks
Yes. I plan to hard wire it soon.
Another great and informative video, Debbie! Thank you so much. Can you tell me the dimensions of the blackout curtain that you have that attaches to your Vancillary shelf? We’re finally taking delivery of our 2021.5 Ascent in May, and will be installing the shelf right away. I like the idea being able to Velcro the curtain right to it for privacy!
It is 64x41”
Thank you Debbie!
Hi .. what is the app you use to find RV spots? Allstays?
Allstays and sometimes Google maps or campendium. But mostly Allstays.
where are you guys headed this summer?
Our plans keep changing. Since the border is closed we'll probably focus on the northwest. We have committed to helping our daughter-in-law rip out an old kitchen but because of Covid (and shortage of construction workers), it keeps getting delayed.
@@FromShetoMe My understanding the delay comes in when your schedule needs materials and the supplier is on the C -19 schedule.
Any news on the new build?
Start in early April.
I don't quite understand the Blackstone grill. Wouldn't a cast iron pan serve just/near as well ?
We mostly use it at home when a bigger surface area is nice, like pancakes or bacon or quesadillas. But can be nice in the summer to keep the heat out of the van.
@@FromShetoMe Looks like I might be hauling one of these around from now on thanks to you and Owen 😕 . I need to pre-screen these videos before I show here LOL ! As long as she's happy. She deserves it. 30 years if putting up with me in August.
@@stanw909 If you experience a lot of wind in your travels, then I would say don’t get one. But it’s always best to defer to “She who must be obeyed.”
@@FromShetoMe Yay, a fellow Rumpole fan!😀
@@karenneiman856 Yes, we even have the complete set of CDs.
"Less is More" - never so true as in a camper.
Why don’t you take much food? Do you go out to eat?
Van is too small to carry much food. We rarely eat out.