For the condensation, if you still need something effective: get paper towels, dampen a couple, squirt some dish soap on them, and wipe down the inside of your windows. DON'T RINSE THE SOAP OFF. Dry the soaped glass with more towels. I used to deliver pizza. Getting in and out of the car on rainy days fogged me up really bad, and my defroster didn't work fast. A little Dawn on the windows was miraculous.
This is by far the best minivan conversion guide I've seen so far. I like the simplicity, I like careful choice of items and the way they are arranged and packed. And, the vehicle remains in pretty much stock condition (apart from removed seats)! So everything can be easily undone (if required), and the resale value is not impacted.
I like this! I have traveled and camped in a couple of minivans, and I have no intention of ever doing anything I would call a "build." The simplicity and usefulness of your setup is a shining example of the reasons not to make the process harder than it has to be.
I agree. I studied interior design & one of the first things we learned was the KIS principle, Keep It Simple. The cot is a brilliant idea, plus you can use it outside at the beach. I find so many people insist on a full bed that requires a major build(often over-engineered) & construction at night, then de-construction in the morning. Way to much work for me, i don't even make my bed at home every day. The whole thing was well thought out & organized. My only critique would be the lack of good bug screening. Something with magnets maybe. I also liked the presentation. Clear, to the point, no over explaining or repetition of info that i see in so many of these. Nicely done Lisa, happy trails to you.
Wall Mart got the perfect cabinet for cheap 2 units 5 or 6 drawers hard plastic light and strong enough to use it put a pvc 3/4 countertop on top of the 2 cabinets , my dad got a van in 1974 318 motor 3 speed we put a Hurst on the floor we put institution 1/4 plywood bed sink fridge my best times in wildwood for summer vacation this van lasted until 2014 only thing we change was the timing belt it just will not die he sold it for $5000.00 , he got it new in 1074 for $7000.00 cash we move to Puerto Rico in 1982 and I was living in the van just for sleeping on my grandmother land I had a blast as a teen it was like having my apartment even my 1st son was created in the van lol I'm 52 years old and I want to make a van I'm a. Carpenter since I was 14 years old full time until I broke my back in 2002 I got a house wife 2 girls 10 and 14 years old my wife is scared so I'm going to make it for vacation's my girl's love the dream I got so let's see how do it. I'm just trying to get the best new van for a good price I'm going to keep it simple. I have not seen a pvc build it's lightweight and strong.
I like your simple approach. I did a mini camper with Thermarest on the floor. I put curtain hooks in the holes where the roof meets the walls. I hang small zipped cloth bags from the hooks so nothing is on the floor. So much space.
Eight cardboard file boxes easily fit beneath most cots. For example, 2 for kitchen, 2 for clothes, 2 for towels and 2 for extras. For example, 10 tops x 5 bottoms = 50 outfits. Stack kitchenware.
I love camping but tent camping is not as easy as it once was. You have some great ideas. I love that you chose pink. I am certainly going to 'borrow' some of your very neat ideas for my own minivan. Thanks for making this vid.
I've been tent camping for over forty years. I now have a minivan to use for a bedroom, but a cabin tent for living space. There are pop up tents, like the Coleman instant tent, that a senior like me can set up easy. Just saying, if you need more room or a nice screen room for a living room. Happy trails.
There’s a you tube video that has an incredibly simple Sienna travel setup, cot bed, toilet and cooler. Her name is Vickie Lynn Andre setup has everything I need to travel alone. I’m not planning for any backcountry camping. Doesn’t have to be complicated.
I also have a cot and its so comfy! in the winter my backside was getting cold so I layed my yoga mat on top. good place to store the mat too. The cot sits up high enough for double stacked totes. I have 4, but the cot sits low enough that I can sit without having my head touch the roof. makes a nice sofa with a body pillow behind me.
Wow, Lisa, you really have it together. I have been riding my motorcycle around the world for the last six years, and now I am back and ready to do a new chapter in my life. I decided to buy a minivan just today, and started to get ideas about outfitting it here on RUclips just tonight. I will definitely be using a lot of your ideas in my new ride. Now, if I can just remember where everything is once I get it put together. I think I will need a secretary. LOL
I've been a vacation camper for over forty years, using a cabin tent with cots. My husband is an outdoor athlete...he runs and mountain bikes, and hikes with me and our two collies (mixes). Anyway, when we're at our campsite, I have used a stretchy tube with handles, tied to a tree. I yoga stretch on a mat in our tent. We're going to fix up a minivan as a camper for bear and cougar country, but keep our tent up for dressing and a "living room" during the day. We'll keep our dogs in the back (they share a bed; they are two peas in a pod) where you have your kitchen space. We have a storage pod on top of our car. Since we have a home base, we don't have to stealth camp and we only camp in the mountains and forests anyway. We're planning to take extended trips next year when we retire. I love your set up and videos. You have great ideas. Good luck on van camping in the future. Happy trails.
Nice tour! Me? I'd like to have 2 gallons of water per day.. at least until I had a handle on how much I really need. You have a very nice arrangement of things in the van. Kudos!
Thank goodness I have found your video. I have a Kia Sorento and I have been racking my brain to figure out how I'm going to convert it and you have presented me with the easiest solution and I hope you don't mind if I copy as much as my reduced-size will allow. I mean I know that your minivan is longer than my SUV so I will have to adapt. Thank you thank you thank you and good job
i was accually looking threw to see if i can find a simple set up i could do in my van and came across yours thank you it is simple and easy to empty out if needed great set up thank you for tour
I got a lot of Inspiration from this thank you so much. I have a Kia Grand carnival (Australian sedona) same as yours. I also used a cot for my bed love that, I really like where you put your fridge I had mine at the door as you enter the back which was good but it made it hard to get in and out. I also used the seat at the rear as a normal seat and used the space behind the seat for storage but it made it very messy and I didn't use the space well anyways, thanks for the inspiration I ought to make a video if my own soon.
Very cool set up. I've been watching a lot of minivan camping videos lately and am feeling the urge to get another one and set it up for camping. I'll be watching some of your other videos looking for ideas. Thanks for sharing.
You have a nice setup . You are the only one that I have seen (so far) that has their bed on the passenger side which is exactly what I would do ! I would get pretty Fed up having to walk around my van to get into the back ! And your passenger seat can now be used better too for storage or pet bed ..etc .
Go Pats! That's a wicked pissah setup!😉 My parents were born and raised in East Bridgewater& West Bridgewater with a little bit of Brockton. Whitman & Taunton thrown in.Happy travels!😊
Love your setup Lisa. Subscribed. It's nice to see a simple setup that doesn't look like an episode of "pimp my ride" I plan on a similar setup to yours. Thanks for some excellent ideas.
Great set up Lisa. Re the water consumption, when my partner and I free camp in the sand dunes of Noosa, we use up a 20 litre jerry can in 2 days. That's breakfast, lunch and dinner cooking and dishes, handwashing and showers, and boiling water for tea. We take a few soft drinks and coconut waters with us in the esky so we don't need alot for drinking water...and come 5pm it's wine o'clock for me too! Also some people use lemon juice in the spray water bottle for bathing, instead of vinegar; guess it depends on which smell you prefer. :)
lol...wine o'clock..ha. thats alot of water but thats for 2 people so seems right. I have never heard of lemon juice..i have tried alcohol. I think vinegar is much cheaper then lemon juice though
It is your home.I live in a 1981 Chevy Van.I have nothing "built" in my van.Your vehicle should be comfortable and livable,not to be on display.I use 2 to 4. Gallons of water a day.......And extra on hand.Dont forget a small ice chest and baby wipes......Those are gold.....I bought a lot of things such as my stove,Coleman fridge, Coleman ice chest,etc. all second hand.I bought a loveseat fold out bed from the thrift store.You should try there sometime......You can find AMAZING things.HAPPY TRAILS
Not much for Boondocking, I will just park at a truck stop, rest area or campground as far as water anytime I stop (convient store) I just buy a gallon
Lisa, just subscribed. You’re so beautifully organized and everything should serve you well. Now I’m anxious to watch your mod changes after your shakedown. I’m in the middle of my “build” of my Honda Element. I have almost the same space. You’ve taken me back to what one really needs. I’ve been using a similar cot to give me sit-up headroom. I did find that after a week, I needed more cushioning because of feeling center bar too much. Love the little camp chair with the mesh
I am of the opinion that you can never have too much water and if flying, there’s no such thing as too much fuel, unless you’re on fire! Love your setup. Very well thought out. As a matter of fact, I’d move into it, today!
Nice setup, thanks for sharing so much detail. I built a bed because I'm 6'4" so I need 80" mattress. I have the same battery box, fridge, and 5 gallon jug with pump.
water is one of the most important things you you can have. Each person uses different.Try with what you have don't waste, drinking water is most important. Don't sell yourself short be safe and enjoy yourself.
Just stumbled across your channel I live in Fitchburg, Ma and also take care of my dad (Alzheimer's) and will be going full-time nomad if our situation changes I also plan some getaway trips to Maine-N.H. this summer! Just thought I would say and hope you enjoy your lil "campa"!
I like your no-build setup too. Your look is so clean and simple. I complicate by having too much stuff myself. I just started solo tent camping on a friend's property this year. I hope to do some traveling but am nervous about doing that solo too. Just do it, right? 🙂. Stay safe!
I converted my Honda Odyssey for a cross-country trip. I left the backseat in (2nd row), so I couldn't fit a cot. It fits a foldable lounge chair though!
Yes, it's actually for my daughter. It's the beach chair from the 70's that folds into thirds. She fits in 2 of the sections. Third wing is up @ 90 deg., against the tailgate.
thanks for this tour! I totally think I can do this! I've been dreaming of taking off in a van and traveling around the USA. I like that I can use mostly what I already have and not have to invest a large amount of money. Make do & add as I go!
Hi Lisa (and Parker) your video inspired me to go cot shopping. Thank you! I found one at Cabela’s that has adjustable feet so you can make it level if the floor of the van isn’t. It also can tip up on one end to make a lounge. And it’s wide (like me). I haven’t purchased it yet...because I don’t have the van yet! Picking it up today. Whoo hoo! Van life sounds like a nice upgrade to my previous “Hotel Prius” travel mode. I will miss my Prius...but the time has come. Thanks again!
I was curious about how a cot would work being so low, but it seems to be fine. You are the 2nd person I've see so far. Didn't know if it would be too low for storage but I like the idea of fold away
Hi Lisa, you may want to consider relocating the battery inverter from underneath where you sleep as they emit radiation. Maybe if you have a stow and go where seats have been removed on the other side of the van or on the front passenger floor. ?
So many great ideas that are unique to your set up so far. But the cot instead of building a platform is great! Also having that small chair-especially if it's icky weather outside, the inside is more livable. But the US map placemat and dry erase is a fun idea too!
Hi Lisa, Really like your style and lifestyle. I am looking to buy a mini van recently and was trying to figure out, how to set it up. You have given me a lot of great ideas. You go girl! Wishing you the best, Rachel
love it, lisa. am going to copy the cot idea for my suburban. (need to take the seats out still.) best of luck with your travels!! i live in massachusetts too.
Wow...what a great set up...the storage organization is fantastic...great job...and who would have ever thought of a "seat belt cutter"...man oh man...thank you...I will be traveling with my three grand daughters who I have custody of, and one is quite young...I am a "be prepared" kind of girl...lol...as you are, I see...lol...I am looking for a seat belt cutter RIGHT NOW...one never knows when one will be in trouble...and if I never use it, I will be happy to have known it was right there all the time I never needed it...lol...as for your asking about how much water one needs while boon docking...I know when I was on the national parks hiking trails site they recommended 4 litres a day per person...that works out to about a gallon of water per day...but as you are well aware, everyone is different in their own habits...and I don't think in that number they took into account showering...that was just for being out in the park overnight camping in the wild...don't know if that helps, but I hope so...great video...new subscriber...looking forward to others...and again, thanks for the seat belt cutter tip...travel safe my friend!
IVe been camping in a variety of vehicles, most recently a ‘96 Volvo stationwagon with fold down seats in the back for a bed and turned it into an “art car” with improvised racks and roof storage plus a Walmart bought luggage tray for the rear tow ball. I have not gone for the stealth mode. Since I’m a musician/artist/writer/activist, etc...I’ve figured how to hang my Yucatan hammock from the improvised roof rack and a tree. I can also set up privacy curtains so the side door can remain open. I use a large beach umbrella attached to the roof rack assemblage. I get things that are built for one purpose (at a Home Depot or Lowes) like a light weight metal railing that I placed horizontally at the rear of the roof. It overhangs on both sides of the roof so I can carry things bungied onto it. I painted my (red) hood with black chalkboard paint and created a “public chalkboard” for anyone to draw, write, express themselves. I started taking pictures of the various designs that disappear with a good rain. I’m hoping to consolidate these into some form of publication. (Right now I’ve only put them individually on my facebook page.) The Volvo developed a bad cylinder and I’m told that my best bet is to get a new-used engine. But being a Volvo that would likely run 4 to 5k which I can’t afford until one of the genius grant organizations finds me...(seriously...as I am an undiscovered writer of over 200 songs and have inventions and both fiction and non fiction books in the works...) I also still own my 22’ class-C GMC motorhome that I’ve touched base in every state in my “country”; the South. Your NE accent reminds me of the New England reputation for efficiency and utilitarianism!! Nice...) Since I’m a musician I also carry quite a number of instruments with me several of which I bungee to the ceiling over my bed and across the back. But since neither the Volvo nor the motorhome are running I’ve been fine tooth combing Craigslist for a minivan. I have a friend who owns a small sedan that she removed the passenger seat and built a small bed extending into the rear. She is nowhere near as self-sufficient or organized as your rig and would likely think both you and my set ups to be too dense....I look at a lot of the videos people make of their campervans and agree with you that it isn’t necessary to totally build...though the larger (and way more expensive) vans that carpenter-skilled guys seem to relish building are well crafted projects. I’d rather put my (currently) limited funding into my gas tank. I used to own a VW Westphalia and notice that several van companies have lifted the pop-top roof concept from the VW. Today’s prices are sooooo much more for rigs like that though not to mention that when I traveled all over Mexico (no passports needed...) in my first VW vanagan that I built a camper into before the Westphalia which imho was designed and executed by geniuses and made being a free-spirit a happy experience that today’s strapped for cash kids no longer have....) I look forward to seeing more about your travels once the weather warms up. (Btw I have winter-weather boondocked in 06degrees and with a good sleeping bag it wasn’t a big problem at all...) I find that WalMart parking lots and by most if not all Planet Fitness lots to be ok places to camp overnight. I got a PF membership for awhile when I was in Austin and the YMCA was too conventional...though having a pool and hot tub was missed with the PF membership. I agree that all the noise, and wall of TVs by the treadmills and stationary bikes made staying a member a short term affair. Have you ever used a solar shower from a camping store (plastic bag to sit in the sun to heat up the water. Then hang it on my roof rack for a nice warm shower...) They are cheap and useful though I like your bug-spray jug. Where’d you get that...? Water and vinegar is a great idea too as is drinking raw apple cider vinegar and water everyday to alkalize in our too acidic diet...I don’t use toothpaste. I brush with baking soda and swallow instead of spitting...again to alkalize...You seem to be nearly totally efficient so I can’t think of much to suggest. Oh, I do think that a rechargeable electric supply available at Harbor Freight is a good investment...Mine is the size of a brick. I can jump start my car if needed. It has a USB port and 12 v adaptor, flashlight ...and comes with all the connectors and cords in a nice zippered container...There are larger but way heavier jumpstart boxes that come from there but never seem to last. HB is pretty good about replacing at no extra charge though...I haven’t had a problem with the “brick” (product name: Viking). It can be recharged through the cigarette lighter port while you’re driving or an AC outlet... Stay in touch!! Janet
The Pats mat was the first thing I noticed :) Great setup Lisa everything in its place. If this video was made yesterday (3/2) it sure was cold. The wind was so strong a lot of Central and Southern NH lost power. I was without it for about 4 or 5 hours. Not to bad considering. Take care and stay warm, spring is just around the corner. ~ jman
yes I did film it yesterday..did you notice the gloves.lol. Last week was in short sleeves sitting in the sun and this week back to winter clothes, gotta love new england. thanks for commenting
i NOW HAVE A CARGO CAMPER VAN...CHECK OUT THE TOUR. ruclips.net/video/klH6oNc7nuE/видео.html
Right? I just collected the wood to raise my bed for storage and then I see the cot!
Smart swap...IMHO
For the condensation, if you still need something effective:
get paper towels, dampen a couple, squirt some dish soap on them, and wipe down the inside of your windows. DON'T RINSE THE SOAP OFF. Dry the soaped glass with more towels.
I used to deliver pizza. Getting in and out of the car on rainy days fogged me up really bad, and my defroster didn't work fast. A little Dawn on the windows was miraculous.
I like the Half Vinegar - Half Water idea in the Spray bottle. It's a Great idea. Half water & half Vinegar Cleanses and Refreshes Your body.
I have never tried on my body just for dishes. What kind is safe for body?
@@lisamallard I think all vinegar is Safe for your body, but for cleansing your body, White Vinegar is the best with the water.
This is by far the best minivan conversion guide I've seen so far. I like the simplicity, I like careful choice of items and the way they are arranged and packed.
And, the vehicle remains in pretty much stock condition (apart from removed seats)! So everything can be easily undone (if required), and the resale value is not impacted.
Thank u, I did cut the back seat belt, it kept getting in my way, ha
I like this! I have traveled and camped in a couple of minivans, and I have no intention of ever doing anything I would call a "build." The simplicity and usefulness of your setup is a shining example of the reasons not to make the process harder than it has to be.
Calvin R very well said. Her setup is simple, neat, functional & just plain cherry. Great work Lisa!
I agree. I studied interior design & one of the first things we learned was the KIS principle, Keep It Simple. The cot is a brilliant idea, plus you can use it outside at the beach. I find so many people insist on a full bed that requires a major build(often over-engineered) & construction at night, then de-construction in the morning. Way to much work for me, i don't even make my bed at home every day.
The whole thing was well thought out & organized. My only critique would be the lack of good bug screening. Something with magnets maybe.
I also liked the presentation. Clear, to the point, no over explaining or repetition of info that i see in so many of these.
Nicely done Lisa, happy trails to you.
@@animerlon Really, people PC'd KISS?
Columbus Calvin I like
True
I like your idea of using a cot. It makes a lot of sense. No construction needed. Great job!
thank you
ya they are more narrow than a twin bed, sometimes thats a pain
where did you get your cot?
My Grandpa had a WWII cot, all wood and great to sleep on.
Junior Henderson did he make you use the scratchy wool blanket like mine did?
This is one of my very top set ups (you’re 1st version and this update). Thank you for sharing.
Thank you. I have a cargo van now
@@lisamallard great. I will watch that too. All he best to you. BTW, I appreciate your prepper/survival tips too.
Walmart carries cots too. 3 different kinds. Just about everything u will need to live in a car or van, u can get at Walmart.
And that's no coincidence!
Wall Mart got the perfect cabinet for cheap 2 units 5 or 6 drawers hard plastic light and strong enough to use it put a pvc 3/4 countertop on top of the 2 cabinets , my dad got a van in 1974 318 motor 3 speed we put a Hurst on the floor we put institution 1/4 plywood bed sink fridge my best times in wildwood for summer vacation this van lasted until 2014 only thing we change was the timing belt it just will not die he sold it for $5000.00 , he got it new in 1074 for $7000.00 cash we move to Puerto Rico in 1982 and I was living in the van just for sleeping on my grandmother land I had a blast as a teen it was like having my apartment even my 1st son was created in the van lol I'm 52 years old and I want to make a van I'm a. Carpenter since I was 14 years old full time until I broke my back in 2002 I got a house wife 2 girls 10 and 14 years old my wife is scared so I'm going to make it for vacation's my girl's love the dream I got so let's see how do it. I'm just trying to get the best new van for a good price I'm going to keep it simple. I have not seen a pvc build it's lightweight and strong.
I like your simple approach. I did a mini camper with Thermarest on the floor. I put curtain hooks in the holes where the roof meets the walls. I hang small zipped cloth bags from the hooks so nothing is on the floor. So much space.
Eight cardboard file boxes easily fit beneath most cots. For example, 2 for kitchen, 2 for clothes, 2 for towels and 2 for extras. For example, 10 tops x 5 bottoms = 50 outfits. Stack kitchenware.
Well thought out and organized. Love the colorful basket!
Thanks so much!
Great walkthrough! Fantastic setup...loving the pink!
Thanks so much!
Hi this is one of the best descriptive vids I have seen.you are a very practical person and that's what is needed to do what you are doing keep it up
thank you for the compliments
I carry 40 gallons in my mini van it last 3 weeks boon docking
#1 I LOVE the pink!! And the blue chair is a perfect contrast. #2 super efficient storage system. best wishes for wonderful camping experience's.
Thank you. I miss that van
I love camping but tent camping is not as easy as it once was. You have some great ideas. I love that you chose pink. I am certainly going to 'borrow' some of your very neat ideas for my own minivan. Thanks for making this vid.
thank you, ya gotta love pink, ha
I've been tent camping for over forty years. I now have a minivan to use for a bedroom, but a cabin tent for living space. There are pop up tents, like the Coleman instant tent, that a senior like me can set up easy. Just saying, if you need more room or a nice screen room for a living room. Happy trails.
There’s a you tube video that has an incredibly simple Sienna travel setup, cot bed, toilet and cooler. Her name is Vickie Lynn Andre setup has everything I need to travel alone. I’m not planning for any backcountry camping. Doesn’t have to be complicated.
Name is Vickie Lynn on you tube. A Toyota Sienna set up.
I have a wood folding table same as yours I found thrown away. I sanded it and painted some flowers on it. pink!!
You keep saying you've seen that, and this is my first video of yours and one of my favorites of many, easy and clean!!
I like the fact that you have EVERYTHING needed for van camping from a female perspective. This is great! Thanks!
Great setup! You thought of everything!
thank you but always a work in progress as I travel more will change it up im sure, its fun though
I like your idea of a cot as well. It is lightweight too. Simple and nicely done!
Nice setting enjoy your camper van. In front of the doors I use lenoleum or large plastic bags to keep the car clean also in the shower cabine.
Very nice
I also have a cot and its so comfy! in the winter my backside was getting cold so I layed my yoga mat on top. good place to store the mat too. The cot sits up high enough for double stacked totes. I have 4, but the cot sits low enough that I can sit without having my head touch the roof. makes a nice sofa with a body pillow behind me.
this van setup resonates with me! You make it seem possible!
It is, anyone can do it.
You could put furniture sliders on the storage boxes to slide in and out.
good idea, ty
Or turn the mat upside down & stick it to the box so it slides over the carpet.
Wow, Lisa, you really have it together. I have been riding my motorcycle around the world for the last six years, and now I am back and ready to do a new chapter in my life. I decided to buy a minivan just today, and started to get ideas about outfitting it here on RUclips just tonight. I will definitely be using a lot of your ideas in my new ride. Now, if I can just remember where everything is once I get it put together. I think I will need a secretary. LOL
I've been a vacation camper for over forty years, using a cabin tent with cots. My husband is an outdoor athlete...he runs and mountain bikes, and hikes with me and our two collies (mixes). Anyway, when we're at our campsite, I have used a stretchy tube with handles, tied to a tree. I yoga stretch on a mat in our tent. We're going to fix up a minivan as a camper for bear and cougar country, but keep our tent up for dressing and a "living room" during the day. We'll keep our dogs in the back (they share a bed; they are two peas in a pod) where you have your kitchen space. We have a storage pod on top of our car. Since we have a home base, we don't have to stealth camp and we only camp in the mountains and forests anyway. We're planning to take extended trips next year when we retire. I love your set up and videos. You have great ideas. Good luck on van camping in the future. Happy trails.
thank you for your kind words, enjoy your adventures
Kurt M. It feels so good
Omg! What a cool set up! It is soooooo cute! So girly, comfortable and practical. More power to you ! 🤩👍🏼
Nice tour! Me? I'd like to have 2 gallons of water per day.. at least until I had a handle on how much I really need.
You have a very nice arrangement of things in the van. Kudos!
thank you, ya nothing like experience
You have the very best setup. I love the cot and the bungie paper towel holder. Thanks for that. I'm hooking that up today.
thank you very much, enjoy
Thank goodness I have found your video. I have a Kia Sorento and I have been racking my brain to figure out how I'm going to convert it and you have presented me with the easiest solution and I hope you don't mind if I copy as much as my reduced-size will allow. I mean I know that your minivan is longer than my SUV so I will have to adapt. Thank you thank you thank you and good job
thats awesome, feel free to use whatever you can, glad I could help
lisa mallard are you still camping on your Kia. And which Kia is it?
Lisa prepping for camping an adventure vids- Awesome.
lol, thank you
Nice set up, love the pink. Great ideas. The cot is the best choice I've seen. You can still store stuff underneath.
Of all the minivans that I've seen, this my favorite . I like the minimalists style and the cot is awesome. If I ever go, I'd like a setup like this.
Very organized and nice looking- totally enough! Enjoy your hikes- thank you.
Ty check out my new van. ruclips.net/video/klH6oNc7nuE/видео.html
Very impressive!! you've thought of everything!!
thank you
i was accually looking threw to see if i can find a simple set up i could do in my van and came across yours thank you it is simple and easy to empty out if needed great set up thank you for tour
thank you, your welcome. good luck to you
I got a lot of Inspiration from this thank you so much. I have a Kia Grand carnival (Australian sedona) same as yours. I also used a cot for my bed love that, I really like where you put your fridge I had mine at the door as you enter the back which was good but it made it hard to get in and out. I also used the seat at the rear as a normal seat and used the space behind the seat for storage but it made it very messy and I didn't use the space well anyways, thanks for the inspiration I ought to make a video if my own soon.
Your welcome, I loved this minivan. Good luck.
It looks cozy and cute!
thank you
Lisa. Hope things are everyday a little bit better for you. We all love you and miss you and understand. Be blessed.
thank you
Awesome video. I am downsizing to Dodge caravan and this is such a big help. Thank you 🌻
Very cool set up. I've been watching a lot of minivan camping videos lately and am feeling the urge to get another one and set it up for camping. I'll be watching some of your other videos looking for ideas.
Thanks for sharing.
ya the cot is also foldable if need be. This is a real pretty setup. I like it! I wonder if 2 cots can be set up at a time.
not in my van but maybe if bigger one
Nice.
I have enough room for 2 in my 2005 Dodge Grand Caravan
You have a nice setup . You are the only one that I have seen (so far) that has their bed on the passenger side which is exactly what I would do ! I would get pretty Fed up having to walk around my van to get into the back ! And your passenger seat can now be used better too for storage or pet bed ..etc .
Go Pats! That's a wicked pissah setup!😉 My parents were born and raised in East Bridgewater& West Bridgewater with a little bit of Brockton. Whitman & Taunton thrown in.Happy travels!😊
Very cool! Thank you.
Lisa, excellent van tour. You have a done wonderful setting up your mini van.
Love your setup Lisa. Subscribed. It's nice to see a simple setup that doesn't look like an episode of "pimp my ride" I plan on a similar setup to yours. Thanks for some excellent ideas.
Your welcome. Ty
Very good. Liked the hinged boxes. Smart.
thank you
Great set up Lisa. Re the water consumption, when my partner and I free camp in the sand dunes of Noosa, we use up a 20 litre jerry can in 2 days. That's breakfast, lunch and dinner cooking and dishes, handwashing and showers, and boiling water for tea. We take a few soft drinks and coconut waters with us in the esky so we don't need alot for drinking water...and come 5pm it's wine o'clock for me too! Also some people use lemon juice in the spray water bottle for bathing, instead of vinegar; guess it depends on which smell you prefer. :)
lol...wine o'clock..ha. thats alot of water but thats for 2 people so seems right. I have never heard of lemon juice..i have tried alcohol. I think vinegar is much cheaper then lemon juice though
It is your home.I live in a 1981 Chevy Van.I have nothing "built" in my van.Your vehicle should be comfortable and livable,not to be on display.I use 2 to 4. Gallons of water a day.......And extra on hand.Dont forget a small ice chest and baby wipes......Those are gold.....I bought a lot of things such as my stove,Coleman fridge, Coleman ice chest,etc. all second hand.I bought a loveseat fold out bed from the thrift store.You should try there sometime......You can find AMAZING things.HAPPY TRAILS
Not much for Boondocking, I will just park at a truck stop, rest area or campground as far as water anytime I stop (convient store) I just buy a gallon
I also have a 12volt seat warmer so next winter I can lay it on my cot! picked it up at a yard sale for $5!!!
Very well organized van. Thank you for showing your interior of your van. You have many great ideas
Lisa, just subscribed. You’re so beautifully organized and everything should serve you well. Now I’m anxious to watch your mod changes after your shakedown.
I’m in the middle of my “build” of my Honda Element. I have almost the same space. You’ve taken me back to what one really needs. I’ve been using a similar cot to give me sit-up headroom. I did find that after a week, I needed more cushioning because of feeling center bar too much.
Love the little camp chair with the mesh
You had a whole lot of great tips. Really enjoyed your video. 👍
Thank you. I have a cargo van now. ruclips.net/video/klH6oNc7nuE/видео.html
I am of the opinion that you can never have too much water and if flying, there’s no such thing as too much fuel, unless you’re on fire! Love your setup. Very well thought out. As a matter of fact, I’d move into it, today!
Ty
Nice setup, thanks for sharing so much detail.
I built a bed because I'm 6'4" so I need 80" mattress.
I have the same battery box, fridge, and 5 gallon jug with pump.
thanks and your welcome..i liked that pump alot
"If I eat while I'm driving I like to wear an apron." OK - like, this is logical, I guess? but I still laughed pretty hard. Love the setup!
lol, thank you
Anyone know what year Kia Sedona that is?
I used to run a mobile service so I spent most of my day in my vehicle, including eating meals and drinking coffee. I used to apron too! 😊
water is one of the most important things you you can have. Each person uses different.Try with what you have don't waste, drinking water is most important. Don't sell yourself short be safe and enjoy yourself.
Thanks for sharing, I like the weed sprayer idea for a shower. And other great ideas, you showed for setting up your vehicle.
Thank you
Just stumbled across your channel I live in Fitchburg, Ma and also take care of my dad (Alzheimer's) and will be going full-time nomad if our situation changes I also plan some getaway trips to Maine-N.H. this summer! Just thought I would say and hope you enjoy your lil "campa"!
The Nomad Sharpner wow that's cool welcome, keep in touch
I agree the conversation mirror is a stupid idea. I have the same van and I couldn't understand why they would even use that space for the mirror.
Putting reflectics under you would keep you cooler or warmer
I love your setup it's amazing how much you can get in your van everything you need love it.stay safe from Scotland
thank you
eow, lots of things packed into that van and plenty of room to spare.
Love how uncluttered it is! Pretty too. Great job
Wonderful set-up, so wonderfully well thought-out! And the "PTA" comment about your hygiene container had me ROLLING!
I like all of the pink. Gives it personality.
Thank you
I like your no-build setup too. Your look is so clean and simple. I complicate by having too much stuff myself. I just started solo tent camping on a friend's property this year. I hope to do some traveling but am nervous about doing that solo too. Just do it, right? 🙂. Stay safe!
I really like your van setup. I especially love that chair by the bed. Nicely done!
I converted my Honda Odyssey for a cross-country trip. I left the backseat in (2nd row), so I couldn't fit a cot. It fits a foldable lounge chair though!
oh wow, is that comfortable to sleep on
Yes, it's actually for my daughter. It's the beach chair from the 70's that folds into thirds. She fits in 2 of the sections. Third wing is up @ 90 deg., against the tailgate.
ha, I have one of those, do you put anything on top for cushion?
I have some memory foam, and two sleeping bags. Enormous storage underneath!
thats great, thanks
I am comfortable on a gallon a day of water. I have a 5.5 gallon water container. So I can go approx 5 days before needing to refill it.
sounds good, thank you
thanks for this tour! I totally think I can do this! I've been dreaming of taking off in a van and traveling around the USA. I like that I can use mostly what I already have and not have to invest a large amount of money. Make do & add as I go!
You can get a little folding metal shovel at an Army surplus store.
And Walmart in the camping section. $10
Hi Lisa (and Parker) your video inspired me to go cot shopping. Thank you! I found one at Cabela’s that has adjustable feet so you can make it level if the floor of the van isn’t. It also can tip up on one end to make a lounge. And it’s wide (like me). I haven’t purchased it yet...because I don’t have the van yet! Picking it up today. Whoo hoo! Van life sounds like a nice upgrade to my previous “Hotel Prius” travel mode. I will miss my Prius...but the time has come. Thanks again!
That's awesome, You did things opposite of me...I now have a Prius..good luck
lisa mallard I’m at CarMax as we speak. I cried when I had to say goodbye to my Prius. Have fun!
good job Lisa. very informative video, especially the camping chair.
I would need something a little more heavy duty for bed..
I would try a rollaway bed..if it fits..
On the back of my car i hang a curtain with veldpron as shower cabine.
I was curious about how a cot would work being so low, but it seems to be fine. You are the 2nd person I've see so far. Didn't know if it would be too low for storage but I like the idea of fold away
It worked well but I have a cargo van now. ruclips.net/video/klH6oNc7nuE/видео.html
excellent video. great yet simple setup. 1.5 gallons a day should suffice. your minimalism is inspiring. keep up the great work.
thank you
Wayne Hobbs ü
BEST minivan camper tour ever! Thanks.
New Sub from Maine! Let our travels and adventures begin!
yaay
Great job, happy trails.
Hi Lisa, you may want to consider relocating the battery inverter from underneath where you sleep as they emit radiation. Maybe if you have a stow and go where seats have been removed on the other side of the van or on the front passenger floor. ?
Yes that would of been a better place for it. I have a cargo van now.
@@lisamallard oh nice!! I'll have to catch up on your vids, have a gr8 day! 🌻
I like that BRIGHT PINK, it's Pretty.
Thank you
Brilliant set up with lots of easy to do ideas! Thanks so much for sharing.
thank you for watching
So many great ideas that are unique to your set up so far. But the cot instead of building a platform is great! Also having that small chair-especially if it's icky weather outside, the inside is more livable.
But the US map placemat and dry erase is a fun idea too!
Thank you for all your kind words
I like your set up. It is so clean and spacious...
That is a lot of compartments in that little van, wow
I have a cargo van now. ruclips.net/video/klH6oNc7nuE/видео.html
wow..you got alot in your mini
ya it is pretty spacious, thanks for watching
Very practical van. A no fuss camper. A good informative video. Thanks.
Hi Lisa, Really like your style and lifestyle. I am looking to buy a mini van recently and was trying to figure out, how to set it up. You have given me a lot of great ideas. You go girl! Wishing you the best, Rachel
thank you, good luck to you
love it, lisa. am going to copy the cot idea for my suburban. (need to take the seats out still.) best of luck with your travels!! i live in massachusetts too.
i did use the cot but felt better on the floor with the mat the bar under the cot eventually hurts the back
Keep your van! It does have more room than any Element or Prius. It is nice the way you have it now. Less cluttered. A work in progress.
Wow...what a great set up...the storage organization is fantastic...great job...and who would have ever thought of a "seat belt cutter"...man oh man...thank you...I will be traveling with my three grand daughters who I have custody of, and one is quite young...I am a "be prepared" kind of girl...lol...as you are, I see...lol...I am looking for a seat belt cutter RIGHT NOW...one never knows when one will be in trouble...and if I never use it, I will be happy to have known it was right there all the time I never needed it...lol...as for your asking about how much water one needs while boon docking...I know when I was on the national parks hiking trails site they recommended 4 litres a day per person...that works out to about a gallon of water per day...but as you are well aware, everyone is different in their own habits...and I don't think in that number they took into account showering...that was just for being out in the park overnight camping in the wild...don't know if that helps, but I hope so...great video...new subscriber...looking forward to others...and again, thanks for the seat belt cutter tip...travel safe my friend!
GreatJob, working on my escape car too😻😻😻
Good luck!!
Well for water
Drinking
Cooking
Washing body
Dishes
It adds up after awhile
IVe been camping in a variety of vehicles, most recently a ‘96 Volvo stationwagon with fold down seats in the back for a bed and turned it into an “art car” with improvised racks and roof storage plus a Walmart bought luggage tray for the rear tow ball. I have not gone for the stealth mode. Since I’m a musician/artist/writer/activist, etc...I’ve figured how to hang my Yucatan hammock from the improvised roof rack and a tree. I can also set up privacy curtains so the side door can remain open. I use a large beach umbrella attached to the roof rack assemblage. I get things that are built for one purpose (at a Home Depot or Lowes) like a light weight metal railing that I placed horizontally at the rear of the roof. It overhangs on both sides of the roof so I can carry things bungied onto it. I painted my (red) hood with black chalkboard paint and created a “public chalkboard” for anyone to draw, write, express themselves. I started taking pictures of the various designs that disappear with a good rain. I’m hoping to consolidate these into some form of publication. (Right now I’ve only put them individually on my facebook page.) The Volvo developed a bad cylinder and I’m told that my best bet is to get a new-used engine. But being a Volvo that would likely run 4 to 5k which I can’t afford until one of the genius grant organizations finds me...(seriously...as I am an undiscovered writer of over 200 songs and have inventions and both fiction and non fiction books in the works...) I also still own my 22’ class-C GMC motorhome that I’ve touched base in every state in my “country”; the South. Your NE accent reminds me of the New England reputation for efficiency and utilitarianism!! Nice...) Since I’m a musician I also carry quite a number of instruments with me several of which I bungee to the ceiling over my bed and across the back. But since neither the Volvo nor the motorhome are running I’ve been fine tooth combing Craigslist for a minivan. I have a friend who owns a small sedan that she removed the passenger seat and built a small bed extending into the rear. She is nowhere near as self-sufficient or organized as your rig and would likely think both you and my set ups to be too dense....I look at a lot of the videos people make of their campervans and agree with you that it isn’t necessary to totally build...though the larger (and way more expensive) vans that carpenter-skilled guys seem to relish building are well crafted projects. I’d rather put my (currently) limited funding into my gas tank. I used to own a VW Westphalia and notice that several van companies have lifted the pop-top roof concept from the VW. Today’s prices are sooooo much more for rigs like that though not to mention that when I traveled all over Mexico (no passports needed...) in my first VW vanagan that I built a camper into before the Westphalia which imho was designed and executed by geniuses and made being a free-spirit a happy experience that today’s strapped for cash kids no longer have....)
I look forward to seeing more about your travels once the weather warms up. (Btw I have winter-weather boondocked in 06degrees and with a good sleeping bag it wasn’t a big problem at all...) I find that WalMart parking lots and by most if not all Planet Fitness lots to be ok places to camp overnight. I got a PF membership for awhile when I was in Austin and the YMCA was too conventional...though having a pool and hot tub was missed with the PF membership. I agree that all the noise, and wall of TVs by the treadmills and stationary bikes made staying a member a short term affair. Have you ever used a solar shower from a camping store (plastic bag to sit in the sun to heat up the water. Then hang it on my roof rack for a nice warm shower...) They are cheap and useful though I like your bug-spray jug. Where’d you get that...? Water and vinegar is a great idea too as is drinking raw apple cider vinegar and water everyday to alkalize in our too acidic diet...I don’t use toothpaste. I brush with baking soda and swallow instead of spitting...again to alkalize...You seem to be nearly totally efficient so I can’t think of much to suggest. Oh, I do think that a rechargeable electric supply available at Harbor Freight is a good investment...Mine is the size of a brick. I can jump start my car if needed. It has a USB port and 12 v adaptor, flashlight ...and comes with all the connectors and cords in a nice zippered container...There are larger but way heavier jumpstart boxes that come from there but never seem to last. HB is pretty good about replacing at no extra charge though...I haven’t had a problem with the “brick” (product name: Viking). It can be recharged through the cigarette lighter port while you’re driving or an AC outlet...
Stay in touch!! Janet
wow, sounds like a great set-up. thank you. I am looking forward to the nice weather.
I never used that solar bag. I got weed sprayer at home depot. Easy to make
You can use baby wipes to save water for showers!
Yes true. I have a cargo van now
The Pats mat was the first thing I noticed :) Great setup Lisa everything in its place. If this video was made yesterday (3/2) it sure was cold. The wind was so strong a lot of Central and Southern NH lost power. I was without it for about 4 or 5 hours. Not to bad considering. Take care and stay warm, spring is just around the corner. ~ jman
yes I did film it yesterday..did you notice the gloves.lol. Last week was in short sleeves sitting in the sun and this week back to winter clothes, gotta love new england. thanks for commenting