I totally agree. Looks best layout design I've ever seen. The only thing I don't like is the honey-comb texture and the color of the panel, which is subjective I know :)
Here's what I hate hate hate, about this build. I hate that you're not my nephew!!!! :) Other than that, this is amazing. I never would have thought you could put the propane camp shower in there.
Late to the party, but 2 yrs later, still one of the best builds. I’m building in an outback, but made me think about future builds. Access from the sleep area to driving area is essential for me. The full bed layout with access to counter. Now they have slide out kitchens for extended stay. Man, this is really motivating. TY. First thing I did was window covers and that’s the game changer for climate control.
You really show a wide range of talents, from design and metal fabricating to sewing and upholstery. Good for you. You really should go into the build business. I’d be a customer.
That spare tire/bike carrier is incredible. The lack of spare wheel on the awd Sienna was an incredible oversight on Toyota's part. Glad they now stock the new ones with a spare. Leaves the rest of us with older sienna's S.O.L. though!
I own a Sienna and this is the best and most efficient and functional van build I've personally ever seen, and I've watched hundreds of builds. I would pay to have this done. You did an excellent job and this is quite impressive. 👏🏾
Dillon, just did my second trip down to the High Sierras in the van, and it is fantastic! Every single feature is well thought out and implemented. Cooking and sleeping in it is so easy and comfortable, it really makes camping a pleasure. My climbing partner wants one just like it, so if you decide to do more builds let me know.
@@BudgetBuildBureau Please let us all know! I don't need this intricate of a build..just the basics: cabinets, sink flooring, bed, fridge and fan. Got a Jackery already, don't want solar or a heater. If you go into biz please post.🙏🏾 Looking to get a Sienna in the next two weeks. I'm willing to travel to get the work done.
@Budget Build Bureau. One more person here interested in a build! Please notify if you consider going into business. Beautifully designed and impressed with the quality of craftsmanship. Do you mind sharing how much time the project took to complete?
@@BudgetBuildBureau Dillon-awesome build!! What year of Toyota Sienna is this and would you consider building the spare tire and bike rack holder and selling them to us? Thank you so much!
I can't think of a way to improve on this design - except I wish you would start your own company and sell these as kits - I would definitely buy one!!
I live overseas and need a van build like this for my stateside-parked 2005 Dodge Caravan before this summer (2022). I plan to both travel and live in it for two months in the hot summers every year. Is there anyone I can contact or anyplace I can go to get a similar build such as this? It is fantastic and probably exactly what I need. This builder is outstanding and talented; his uncle is blessed to have him.
Wow! Your uncle is a lucky ducky. I've watched probably 50 Toyota sienna van build videos. This is undoubtedly the best well thought out configuration and build. I'm an old geezer with a sienna touring with the idea. I know I couldn't afford something like this.
This is my absolute favorite minivan conversion yet! You really utilized every bit of space so well, and included all the needed comforts!! Beyond impressive!
I'm not sure. Legs supporting would help, I think. Now is OK, because is new, but when the person of 80 kilograms will sleep on this half, soon the sliding mechanism would be damaged.
This has to be one of the most clever mini-van builds I’ve ever seen. Really nice job! I’m sure your uncle and aunt will enjoy it tons. For your aunt’s enjoyment, your uncle could purchase one of those camp rooms that goes over the back door hatch, and with a shower room, they’d be set for a good week, at least. Just such a clever build!
Iv watched every minivan build on UA-cam over the past couple years and this is on a whole new level. This is the most a professional looking and thought out build iv seen. YOU ARE THE BEST! Lucky uncle 👍
First of all, you're a good nephew to have built this for your uncle! It was a great design, especially the draw pulls to extend the bed. Really great job. Thanks for making and sharing the video!
As a recently homeless person who had a whole craft room in her previous life, this interior is the next best thing. I could actually return to making pretty things and feel like a normal again. Just so well thought through, AND the glorious windows didn't get built over! Honestly. I feel like crying, it's so beautiful.
@@BudgetBuildBureau very well thought out!! I have a friend who has recently lost her place. She has a van. I feel sad for her. Would you build something like that again? Where are you? Thanks
Your build blows everyone else's out of the water!!! WOW!!! Function is awesome, just gorgeous and perfect for camping! And top storage and ability to carry a bike! Dang I want one!! 😁 Great job and awesome ideas!!! 5 🌟 build!! 👍👍
I love watching these mini van or small camper builds. This is one of the best! So well thought out and clean. You should have more subscribers with this kind of work. Well done!
You could totally turn this into a full time business if you wanted, based on the many people I see on u-tube now living out of their cars, vans and looking for alternative & economical living situations. Your work and solutions are freakin amazing & attention to detail…wow, just WOW!
I want this in my van!! I have been watching van builds for years; never have I seen one as functional and aesthetically pleasing as this--in a minivan! It's absolutely amazing! I have my own diy (not permanent) build out in my dodge grand caravan and it's doable, but I would love to have a build like this one!! Nice work!! It's fantastic!
i think this is the first time i've been truly impressed by a minivan build, usually they seem interesting but highly limited by the space but your build really utilizes the space in the most ingenious ways i've seen. not to mention a lot of the ideas here scale up nicely to bigger builds as well, that hitch alone is so well thought out, versatile, and could fit on practically any build. i love putting a countertop on slides above a chest fridge, incredibly smart. wow i just can't say enough, great job!! thanks for the video :))
You picked a really good car. This car gives you 36 mph, one of the highest. My tiny Yaris gives me the same. What great mpg!!! Cargo capacity is 1420! I think your build is exceptional. I like the narrow passageway so the bike can be stored if necessary. Kitchen, toilet, shower, hot water, power grid, bed large enough for two. Amazing! Even though the kitchen counter looks lovely, it is too thick and too heavy as a butcher block counter. That is the only flaw I see. I would opt for a thinner planks or formica top. Drop the weight so you have good mpg and more cargo capacity or an extra person. I love the way the toilet sinks into that space, you could use it in that position too, so handy. Nothing more annoying or a time waster than looking for a place to pee on your travels. This is great. You have two options for window, or use them both. 1. Magnetic insulated window panels - Make a slip cover with some Thinsulate sewn in. There should be a slit to slide in a Reflectix sheet. Make sure the fluffy white part of the Thinsulate touches the Reflectix, so this acts as the air gap needed by Reflectix. When laundering, take out the Reflectix piece and wash the rest normally. Reflectix degrades with UV exposure, so now you can replace it easily too. 2. Get curtain tracks from Recmar.com. They have a lot of options for flex, stiff, metal, plastic, curving, straight... tracks. They supply marine places and are a wholesale place that also sells retail. Good stuff. Add one track all the way on each side and front windshield. Then make curtains for them. Use Roclon rubber cloth on the outside and a nice fabric inside. Roclon white will not fade and this rubber makes a good blackout curtain and adds some insulation too. You can also add magnets to curtain bottom to make it stick to wall better. Best drapery hooks are the large ones from IKEA, along with shirring tape - both cheap. You have an impressive array of skills from welding to sewing, woodworking, etc. I like that in people, these are life skills everyone should have. I would suggest you look at Humble Road channel and see his builds. He uses aluminum a lot and has some creative ideas for layouts. You may like those videos.
I don't think I've ever commented on a van build before, despite having watched probably thousands of them. This is worth commenting. OMG, it's incredible! Well done! I can't believe you fit so much, with so many options inside a mini van!
What creative small space planning! It takes a truly creative and talented person to successfully execute this type of tiny van build. Thank you for so generously sharing this fantastic build with us!
I couldn't just walk away from this minivan build out video without telling you how amazing this design is! Great inspiration for my complete redo of mine!
Wow! This layout is the best I’ve seen! Elegant but so practical and simple! It has everything but a hidden locking safe. I love that you created the spare carrier and made it accessible!
Just curious...is there any way to access the floor storage, at least the first half in the front, from the top via trapdoors that lift up? Or a top that slides out?
@@mhayes6864 I believe that the seats are Not stow and go , but the recliner 2nd row seats that you take out. I have a model similar, and my 2nd row seats just roll out of the van. I don't know if his has wheels like mine do, mine even has a strap so you can pull them like a wagon. Only the back seats (3rd row) fold into the floor.
Love this! This is one of my favorite build outs. I also recommend a cover drawer for the potty like the enclosure for the Yeti frig. That way when your uncle cooks outside he doesn't have to see the potty in the cook area. When you do my build make the switch for me. I want my yeti and eating table near the grill area. I need my potty behind the seat so I can take care of the important business and scoot back into the driver's seat, keep rolling. I don't want to get caught in back of the van with my pant down. I need to be ready to lift off at any given point. I'm SILKY SMOOTH like that. Have a nice day.😎
I really appreciate how you used 250lbs sliders for a full bed. Such a huge solution for many concerns. Helps provide a win-win situation. Thanks again.
One of my favorite Sienna builds online.. Best takeaway for me is the cabinet/top & fridge combo. If only there's a in-depth video about the spare tire rack build. That'd be awesome. 👍
You got my anticipation with the double bed set up. You kept stalling it and finally revealed the 250lb drawer holders and I was mind blown 😲😲😲. Genius design with the heater and the bed system with drawer’s underneath
Whoa. This is next-level. Well done, dude. I did have one suggestion for an addition: LED strip lights along the ceiling. It makes the inside really nice at night. Most come with a remote and they're simple USB plug-in. On the one hand, your uncle can easily ad this ... on the other hand, nobody will install ANYTHING better than you...
Wow! This has to be the best build I've seen. Your design and attention to detail is amazing. Depending on how stealth it needs to be, you could add a side awning for shade/rain. Your uncle will have miles of smiles with this van. If this were mine, I'd try to put a million camping miles on it. Well done sir!
I’ve watched probably 100 van builds over the past couple weeks… this is by far one of my favorites…. I’m getting a full size and not a mini but there’s so many great ideas here!! Love that black textured plywood and the black metal…. That swing out tire and bike carrier is incredible!!
I'm looking at doing a conversion on my van! So I've seen about 7 months of builds! Hundreds! I thought I am handy,but you are something else! Next level,I give props when they are due! I was about to go to sleep and clicked on this! Even rocking a new sewing machine for the build! I was like really!? Very well thought out and super sturdy! I'm a architect and I wouldn't change a thing! I did screen shot a couple of your ideas though! Lol the counter space for one! The most workable area I've ever seen! My fridge just got in day before yesterday! And my solar generator about two days before! I'm glad I saw your build! Freaking awesome build brother! I wish my nephew would do this! 🤣God bless you!
Love this build watched till the end. The only thing I could suggest is putting a lift up door in the middle floor to better utilize that space. Well done 👍🏻 just awesome 👏
Thank you! Had thought about doing that just didn’t want to have a “soft” spot in the floor, I’m sure there is a way around this but tight on time. Thanks for watching!
Hands down best overall minivan build, I've seen. Must have taken a lot of thought, and a lot of labor and craftsman. I'm doing a build, with a Sienna, featuring more solar power and more storage, but I'll probably never attain the overall quality of work of this one. You have given me a few great ideas to consider for my own build. Thanks, and Cheers to you!
First off - I love it! How you fit so much into such a small vehicle! smh! Wow! Do you do other people's vehicles? This is your first video I've seen! Well done!
Newly Updated Safety Suggestions; I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living. I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc... People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living. I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself. Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this. I feel that you , and others UA-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful. I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors. I shared this with another traveler as I watched their UA-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others. Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience. Although, you may have knowledge of this already, I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone. *Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle. You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage Do your research for the best fit for you Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables. Consider theses items: *Mini portable power charging station. I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices. *Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception. Research to see what you prefer. *Very Inportant: Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location. There are various types of these devices, and including signal that can be used when boating or camping situations. There is also the Satellite communication devices, that can provide SOS emergency signal and GPS, and provide satellite text messaging capabilities anywhere. *Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders. Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone. You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS emergency GPS devices will be a good fit for you. *Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger *vehicle battery jumper cables *Vehicle Jumper cables *Keep a Fire extinguisher handy Smoke, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful... *Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly. Exterior vehicle cameras Interior vehicle cameras *Flashlights or pluggin spotlights *Portable spotlights, and lanterns Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console *A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies. Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons. Don’t forget to bring Bear Spray Pepper spray Where is allowed If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc. However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings. Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks. Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc. Although, I just noticed your UA-cam channel, and other similar channels. You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions. Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions. Keep your vehicle gas filled Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty. Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on. Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze. Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate. Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very. Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump. Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it. It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling. Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors. Keep Enjoying Yourself, Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature Just..Please continue to Be Positive, Safe, and Alert.. Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness to You All. God Bless You, and everyone Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc. Please Be Safe... Peace and Wellbeing... Author Advocate for Humanity, Safety Advocate Jason Sandifer, Michigan 10/06/2022, 10/02/2022 10/08/2022, 10/12/2022
Wow, you are a font of knowledge, YOU should have a youtube channel, or be advertising your book or something. Wish I could download all this (guess I could photo it but it would be hard.)
@jasonsandifer3250 you obviously didn't listen to the video because right from the get go he indicated he was converting the van for HIS UNCLE - NOT himself. Van living has its +/- no doubt but not near what you think... especially since you don't have first hand experience
This is a really great build. In England, we would call the vehicle a 7 seater car. You are amazing at configuring the space, with everything they would need for home comforts. If you had a couple of gazebo sides, they could hang around the edge to the back hatch and tent pegged down. Then, that area could be a stand-up shower and even the toilet. Could also put a skirt around the bottom to make it more windproof that would be really easy to add for next to nothing. Love, love it.
This is incredible! I think if I go this route, I am going to commission you to do a build for me. 😁 Stellar job! Can't commend you enough. Also have to say you appear to be very humble as you are clearly very gifted. Love this so much!!!!
You did a pretty GREAT job. Looks like a very well thought out plan. I guess your uncle will be the judge & let you know how well it goes being in it. 👍🏻
Exceptionally well thought out and built van. Everything is top notch. You even bothered to move the license plate light and relocate the camera to accommodate that badass spare tire rack you built.
Should have said more 1st time. Am 78 and bought the 2020 Sept of 19 so have been searching van builds since 2018. When Covid hit I just did temporary setup and went camping in Wyoming it worked fine so decided to buy a class B but too expensive for the time I would use it. Then.....today I saw this amazing buildout you did for your uncle. Incredible! After 3 years searching for perfect setup I found yours, it is beautiful and just what I would love to have. I’m an old woman so I don’t need the rack on the back and have 2 sun roofs so no fan? Anyway, are you interested in doing this for me? I’ve only put 5000 miles on van since new purchase.
Unbelievably well thought out. What a good nephew you are. Attractive interior, has all the bells and whistles of the bigger vans, great looking materials were used and totally love the pull out top over the fridge. Really, just a great build! Nice tour presentation.
I love your build! Did you disengage the airbags? And please, if you can, please consider making and selling plans, maybe by topic, instead of as a whole unit, so people can customize to their vans. Thank you for sharing!
This is indeed one of the most clever builds I've seen in a mini van so far. I've watched close to 8000 van life videos to date and can't say enough how well designed this is. Thank you soooooo much for sharing with us. be safe, stay well and God bless
Definitely the BEST “DIY” build I’ve ever seen online!!! By far!!! You obviously have a broad subset of varying skills in all the right ares for this conversion. You should consider going into business doing conversions like this. Incredible creativity and knowledge of your craft, from auto choices research to materials fabrication skills, to premium execution with both esthetics consideration and quality consideration for durability and longevity. I’ve always wanted a compact AWD mini van put together in this manner. I’ve owned everything from a 1984 ford econoline F350, to a Chrysler AWD town and country that had minor customization. But never to this degree. My grandfather was a builder and custom kitchen cabinet maker and had MAD skills like yours. I take after him in many ways, and learn quickly on the fly, but this build expanded my imagination! You really should consider an all out, brick and mortar location and conversion shop. You’d have them lining up at the door. Thank you very much for sharing your build especially in the detail you presented. Very helpful and inspiring. Best of luck with your future endeavors.
I've watched a lot of SUV builds, and this is very functional. I like it a lot! I loved that you recessed the toilet in the floor. I'm gonna use that one. Ty! Only thing I would have done differently is moved the fridge away from the side door cuz I would want to occasionally use that area in front of the door as a cooking area. Opening that door, while cooking a meal, would provide the best ventilation. With the fridge underneath it, that would make cooking difficult. Happy trails!
I've seen almost every van build video on UA-cam. This is the most well-thought-out and functional minivan build I've seen yet!💕
I totally agree. Looks best layout design I've ever seen. The only thing I don't like is the honey-comb texture and the color of the panel, which is subjective I know :)
Glad you like it! thanks for watching!
Could not agree more! ....and same for seeing almost every van build video on YT....ADDICTED!
By far. I am very jelly hahah. Sienna are overpowered as a camper people just don’t know the vibes haha.
Absolutely love this! It is one of the best builds ever. Made my heart yearn for the same setup. Beautiful!
Here's what I hate hate hate, about this build. I hate that you're not my nephew!!!! :) Other than that, this is amazing. I never would have thought you could put the propane camp shower in there.
🤣
I KNOW!!! I’m over here thinking, “if I saw the legs down on a futon...” then I watch this, drop my saw, and crawled in my bed 🛌
Shower.....schmower ;)
I agree!
urgh! i agreed! would u be my nephew?
Can we shout out a collective “WOW”. What a design, dude!
Late to the party, but 2 yrs later, still one of the best builds. I’m building in an outback, but made me think about future builds. Access from the sleep area to driving area is essential for me. The full bed layout with access to counter. Now they have slide out kitchens for extended stay. Man, this is really motivating. TY. First thing I did was window covers and that’s the game changer for climate control.
The absolute best mini van build ever!!!
Your uncle is a lucky man to have such a skilled and caring nephew!
You really show a wide range of talents, from design and metal fabricating to sewing and upholstery. Good for you. You really should go into the build business. I’d be a customer.
I would be another customer
Me 3!
Start a business doing camper van design!!! 😊
And me!
me five
Concept...design...materials...fabrication...quality. This is a 100% project. Simply outstanding!
Yes, but look at expenses! :0 :00!!
That spare tire/bike carrier is incredible. The lack of spare wheel on the awd Sienna was an incredible oversight on Toyota's part. Glad they now stock the new ones with a spare. Leaves the rest of us with older sienna's S.O.L. though!
I own a Sienna and this is the best and most efficient and functional van build I've personally ever seen, and I've watched hundreds of builds. I would pay to have this done. You did an excellent job and this is quite impressive. 👏🏾
Thank you very much! Very kind of you!
Dillon, just did my second trip down to the High Sierras in the van, and it is fantastic! Every single feature is well thought out and implemented. Cooking and sleeping in it is so easy and comfortable, it really makes camping a pleasure. My climbing partner wants one just like it, so if you decide to do more builds let me know.
Thanks for the opportunity to build it, and the freedom to implement my design!
I will definitely let you know if so!
@@BudgetBuildBureau Please let us all know! I don't need this intricate of a build..just the basics: cabinets, sink flooring, bed, fridge and fan. Got a Jackery already, don't want solar or a heater. If you go into biz please post.🙏🏾 Looking to get a Sienna in the next two weeks. I'm willing to travel to get the work done.
@Budget Build Bureau. One more person here interested in a build! Please notify if you consider going into business. Beautifully designed and impressed with the quality of craftsmanship. Do you mind sharing how much time the project took to complete?
@@BudgetBuildBureau Dillon-awesome build!! What year of Toyota Sienna is this and would you consider building the spare tire and bike rack holder and selling them to us? Thank you so much!
Oh, I just reached the part in the video what you said it is a 2011 Toyota Sienna so now I know what year it is. Thanks!
The sliding countertop is genius
Thanks, one of my favorite features as well!
I can't think of a way to improve on this design - except I wish you would start your own company and sell these as kits - I would definitely buy one!!
Yes!
me too - go set up a website and start selling - great build
I live overseas and need a van build like this for my stateside-parked 2005 Dodge Caravan before this summer (2022). I plan to both travel and live in it for two months in the hot summers every year.
Is there anyone I can contact or anyplace I can go to get a similar build such as this? It is fantastic and probably exactly what I need.
This builder is outstanding and talented; his uncle is blessed to have him.
Wow! Your uncle is a lucky ducky. I've watched probably 50 Toyota sienna van build videos. This is undoubtedly the best well thought out configuration and build. I'm an old geezer with a sienna touring with the idea. I know I couldn't afford something like this.
Wow, thanks!
This is my absolute favorite minivan conversion yet! You really utilized every bit of space so well, and included all the needed comforts!! Beyond impressive!
That part I like most is the toilet. I'm a kind of people who need to visit the toilet quite often.
Brilliant. The bed slides are excellent. No extra support needed. You are a smart fella!
I'm not sure. Legs supporting would help, I think. Now is OK, because is new, but when the person of 80 kilograms will sleep on this half, soon the sliding mechanism would be damaged.
This has to be one of the most clever mini-van builds I’ve ever seen. Really nice job! I’m sure your uncle and aunt will enjoy it tons. For your aunt’s enjoyment, your uncle could purchase one of those camp rooms that goes over the back door hatch, and with a shower room, they’d be set for a good week, at least. Just such a clever build!
I’m absolutely dumbfounded by how many convenient amenities you fit into this build. It’s mind-boggling. Everything looks great. You’re brilliant!
I cannot imagine the time you spent figuring this all out! The most amazing build I have seen and I’m super jealous! Genius!
Iv watched every minivan build on UA-cam over the past couple years and this is on a whole new level. This is the most a professional looking and thought out build iv seen. YOU ARE THE BEST! Lucky uncle 👍
Me trying to pause when I saw his reflection in the glass to see what a genius looks like…
When you popped up the table from the tire rack I just about fell out of my chair haha. I wouldn’t change a thing with your build 10/10 👍
First of all, you're a good nephew to have built this for your uncle! It was a great design, especially the draw pulls to extend the bed. Really great job. Thanks for making and sharing the video!
That grey water tank/drain idea is absolutely genius in it's simplicity. I can't believe I've never thought of that. Copying! 💗
Thank you! Copy away, thanks for watching
As a recently homeless person who had a whole craft room in her previous life, this interior is the next best thing. I could actually return to making pretty things and feel like a normal again. Just so well thought through, AND the glorious windows didn't get built over! Honestly. I feel like crying, it's so beautiful.
Thanks so much for watching and commenting! I hope you can return to making pretty things soon!
@@BudgetBuildBureau aww, thanks! I definitely will. Can't stop, won't stop...just paused for now. 😁
@@BudgetBuildBureau very well thought out!! I have a friend who has recently lost her place. She has a van. I feel sad for her. Would you build something like that again? Where are you? Thanks
You should market your spare tire rig. I thought it was on the market.
Yes, yes, YES!!! Lots of us could use that spare tire rig!!
Your build blows everyone else's out of the water!!! WOW!!! Function is awesome, just gorgeous and perfect for camping!
And top storage and ability to carry a bike! Dang I want one!! 😁
Great job and awesome ideas!!! 5 🌟 build!! 👍👍
Wow, your uncle is one very lucky fella to have a nephew like you! That's such a wonderful gift of your time and talent. You should be very proud.
I love watching these mini van or small camper builds. This is one of the best! So well thought out and clean. You should have more subscribers with this kind of work. Well done!
Thank you very much, appreciate it!
I think car campers are the new campervans.
Vans are often too big, too expensive and a burden if not used every weekend or for longer trips.
You could totally turn this into a full time business if you wanted, based on the many people I see on u-tube now living out of their cars, vans and looking for alternative & economical living situations. Your work and solutions are freakin amazing & attention to detail…wow, just WOW!
I want this in my van!! I have been watching van builds for years; never have I seen one as functional and aesthetically pleasing as this--in a minivan! It's absolutely amazing! I have my own diy (not permanent) build out in my dodge grand caravan and it's doable, but I would love to have a build like this one!! Nice work!! It's fantastic!
i think this is the first time i've been truly impressed by a minivan build, usually they seem interesting but highly limited by the space but your build really utilizes the space in the most ingenious ways i've seen. not to mention a lot of the ideas here scale up nicely to bigger builds as well, that hitch alone is so well thought out, versatile, and could fit on practically any build. i love putting a countertop on slides above a chest fridge, incredibly smart. wow i just can't say enough, great job!! thanks for the video :))
Thank you very much, high compliments! Thanks for watching. Full size transit van build video coming soon
@@BudgetBuildBureau Look forward to seeing it!
@@wellnative1 posted on my channel now!
You picked a really good car. This car gives you 36 mph, one of the highest. My tiny Yaris gives me the same. What great mpg!!! Cargo capacity is 1420! I think your build is exceptional. I like the narrow passageway so the bike can be stored if necessary. Kitchen, toilet, shower, hot water, power grid, bed large enough for two. Amazing!
Even though the kitchen counter looks lovely, it is too thick and too heavy as a butcher block counter. That is the only flaw I see. I would opt for a thinner planks or formica top. Drop the weight so you have good mpg and more cargo capacity or an extra person.
I love the way the toilet sinks into that space, you could use it in that position too, so handy. Nothing more annoying or a time waster than looking for a place to pee on your travels. This is great.
You have two options for window, or use them both.
1. Magnetic insulated window panels - Make a slip cover with some Thinsulate sewn in. There should be a slit to slide in a Reflectix sheet. Make sure the fluffy white part of the Thinsulate touches the Reflectix, so this acts as the air gap needed by Reflectix. When laundering, take out the Reflectix piece and wash the rest normally. Reflectix degrades with UV exposure, so now you can replace it easily too.
2. Get curtain tracks from Recmar.com. They have a lot of options for flex, stiff, metal, plastic, curving, straight... tracks. They supply marine places and are a wholesale place that also sells retail. Good stuff. Add one track all the way on each side and front windshield. Then make curtains for them. Use Roclon rubber cloth on the outside and a nice fabric inside. Roclon white will not fade and this rubber makes a good blackout curtain and adds some insulation too. You can also add magnets to curtain bottom to make it stick to wall better. Best drapery hooks are the large ones from IKEA, along with shirring tape - both cheap.
You have an impressive array of skills from welding to sewing, woodworking, etc. I like that in people, these are life skills everyone should have. I would suggest you look at Humble Road channel and see his builds. He uses aluminum a lot and has some creative ideas for layouts. You may like those videos.
I don't think I've ever commented on a van build before, despite having watched probably thousands of them. This is worth commenting. OMG, it's incredible! Well done! I can't believe you fit so much, with so many options inside a mini van!
Thanks for watching and commenting, it was a fun build with lots of problem solving!
Your uncle must be a special guy . His new pad is amazing. Great and well done camper conversion :)
What creative small space planning! It takes a truly creative and talented person to successfully execute this type of tiny van build. Thank you for so generously sharing this fantastic build with us!
I couldn't just walk away from this minivan build out video without telling you how amazing this design is! Great inspiration for my complete redo of mine!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Sliding counter top with fridge access below is GENIUS!!! Thank you!!
You’re incredibly talented…sewing, design, building, electric! Wow! What a blessing!
Wow! This layout is the best I’ve seen! Elegant but so practical and simple! It has everything but a hidden locking safe. I love that you created the spare carrier and made it accessible!
Just curious...is there any way to access the floor storage, at least the first half in the front, from the top via trapdoors that lift up? Or a top that slides out?
@@mhayes6864 I believe that the seats are Not stow and go , but the recliner 2nd row seats that you take out. I have a model similar, and my 2nd row seats just roll out of the van. I don't know if his has wheels like mine do, mine even has a strap so you can pull them like a wagon. Only the back seats (3rd row) fold into the floor.
@@notaennebodie531 oh, I see. Thank you!
When he flipped down that little table in the back I flipped the eff out. So freaking clever.
Love this! This is one of my favorite build outs.
I also recommend a cover drawer for the potty like the enclosure for the Yeti frig. That way when your uncle cooks outside he doesn't have to see the potty in the cook area.
When you do my build make the switch for me.
I want my yeti and eating table near the grill area.
I need my potty behind the seat so I can take care of the important business and scoot back into the driver's seat, keep rolling. I don't want to get caught in back of the van with my pant down. I need to be ready to lift off at any given point.
I'm SILKY SMOOTH like that. Have a nice day.😎
Take care of important business 🤣🤣!! Oh wait, they could incorporate them into the driver’s seat! I love your thinking! 🥰
I really appreciate how you used 250lbs sliders for a full bed. Such a huge solution for many concerns. Helps provide a win-win situation. Thanks again.
One of my favorite Sienna builds online.. Best takeaway for me is the cabinet/top & fridge combo. If only there's a in-depth video about the spare tire rack build. That'd be awesome. 👍
He doesn't even mention how it'll help keep the fridge cool. It's just perfect.
You got my anticipation with the double bed set up. You kept stalling it and finally revealed the 250lb drawer holders and I was mind blown 😲😲😲. Genius design with the heater and the bed system with drawer’s underneath
Whoa. This is next-level. Well done, dude. I did have one suggestion for an addition: LED strip lights along the ceiling. It makes the inside really nice at night. Most come with a remote and they're simple USB plug-in. On the one hand, your uncle can easily ad this ... on the other hand, nobody will install ANYTHING better than you...
You packed a ton of functionality into such a small space! Very well done.
Wow! This has to be the best build I've seen. Your design and attention to detail is amazing. Depending on how stealth it needs to be, you could add a side awning for shade/rain. Your uncle will have miles of smiles with this van. If this were mine, I'd try to put a million camping miles on it. Well done sir!
I’ve watched probably 100 van builds over the past couple weeks… this is by far one of my favorites…. I’m getting a full size and not a mini but there’s so many great ideas here!! Love that black textured plywood and the black metal….
That swing out tire and bike carrier is incredible!!
I'm looking at doing a conversion on my van! So I've seen about 7 months of builds! Hundreds! I thought I am handy,but you are something else! Next level,I give props when they are due! I was about to go to sleep and clicked on this! Even rocking a new sewing machine for the build! I was like really!? Very well thought out and super sturdy! I'm a architect and I wouldn't change a thing! I did screen shot a couple of your ideas though! Lol the counter space for one! The most workable area I've ever seen! My fridge just got in day before yesterday! And my solar generator about two days before! I'm glad I saw your build! Freaking awesome build brother! I wish my nephew would do this! 🤣God bless you!
VERY ingenious build! We should all have such clever nephews as your uncle has!
I'm trying to figure out how to build my Sienna into a camper van and you have thought about everything! I'm extremely impressed.
I would be just satisfied with a decent
& private functional toilet in my old 1999 toyota minivan.
Wow! This is the best mini van build I’ve ever seen.
I like that the cassette toilet is in the sunken area so it’s usable for tall people.
I keep coming back to this video. It's one of the great camper builds on UA-cam.
Love this build watched till the end. The only thing I could suggest is putting a lift up door in the middle floor to better utilize that space.
Well done 👍🏻 just awesome 👏
Thank you! Had thought about doing that just didn’t want to have a “soft” spot in the floor, I’m sure there is a way around this but tight on time. Thanks for watching!
You need to market the bike / spare tire carrier.
Check out Unstoppable Morgan. She has an ac and a smoker on her spare tire rack.
Best Sienna conversion ever. WTG. Now, if only I had a nephew like you. :)
ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE !!!🎉
You have given your uncle the best quality of life!!❤
Man, you went all the way out. 💯👀🎉 That's a beautiful build. I absolutely love it. ❤
Hands down best overall minivan build, I've seen. Must have taken a lot of thought, and a lot of labor and craftsman. I'm doing a build, with a Sienna, featuring more solar power and more storage, but I'll probably never attain the overall quality of work of this one. You have given me a few great ideas to consider for my own build. Thanks, and Cheers to you!
That is the cleanest build I've seen! And the spare tire carrier is genius.
First off - I love it! How you fit so much into such a small vehicle! smh! Wow! Do you do other people's vehicles? This is your first video I've seen! Well done!
Newly Updated Safety Suggestions;
I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living.
I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc...
People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living.
I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself.
Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this.
I feel that you , and others UA-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful.
I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors.
I shared this with another traveler as I watched their UA-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others.
Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience.
Although, you may have knowledge of this already,
I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone.
*Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle.
You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage
Do your research for the best fit for you
Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables.
Consider theses items:
*Mini portable power charging station.
I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices.
*Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception.
Research to see what you prefer.
*Very Inportant:
Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location.
There are various types of these devices, and including signal that can be used when boating or camping situations.
There is also the Satellite communication devices, that can provide SOS emergency signal and GPS, and provide satellite text messaging capabilities anywhere.
*Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders.
Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone.
You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS emergency GPS devices will be a good fit for you.
*Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger
*vehicle battery jumper cables
*Vehicle Jumper cables
*Keep a Fire extinguisher handy
Smoke, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful...
*Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly.
Exterior vehicle cameras
Interior vehicle cameras
*Flashlights or pluggin spotlights
*Portable spotlights, and lanterns
Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console
*A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies.
Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons.
Don’t forget to bring
Bear Spray
Pepper spray
Where is allowed
If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc.
However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings.
Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks.
Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc.
Although, I just noticed your UA-cam channel, and other similar channels.
You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions.
Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions.
Keep your vehicle gas filled
Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty.
Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on.
Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze.
Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate.
Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very.
Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc
Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump.
Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it.
It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling.
Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors.
Keep Enjoying Yourself,
Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature
Just..Please continue to
Be Positive, Safe, and Alert..
Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness to You All.
God Bless You, and everyone
Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc.
Please Be Safe...
Peace and Wellbeing...
Author Advocate for Humanity,
Safety Advocate
Jason Sandifer,
Michigan
10/06/2022,
10/02/2022
10/08/2022,
10/12/2022
👏🏾👏👏🏾👏👏🏾👏👏🏾👏
Wow, you are a font of knowledge, YOU should have a youtube channel, or be advertising your book or something. Wish I could download all this (guess I could photo it but it would be hard.)
@jasonsandifer3250 you obviously didn't listen to the video because right from the get go he indicated he was converting the van for HIS UNCLE - NOT himself.
Van living has its +/- no doubt but not near what you think... especially since you don't have first hand experience
@@artsteadman2230hey, don't be a Negative Nancy. This is useful information for those that aren't aware jeez
This is a really great build. In England, we would call the vehicle a 7 seater car. You are amazing at configuring the space, with everything they would need for home comforts. If you had a couple of gazebo sides, they could hang around the edge to the back hatch and tent pegged down. Then, that area could be a stand-up shower and even the toilet. Could also put a skirt around the bottom to make it more windproof that would be really easy to add for next to nothing. Love, love it.
When I lived in England they were called people carriers..😂
Dillon, great video and great build. We miss you man, come back to us. I'm so glad I was shown your channel.
This is incredible! I think if I go this route, I am going to commission you to do a build for me. 😁 Stellar job! Can't commend you enough. Also have to say you appear to be very humble as you are clearly very gifted. Love this so much!!!!
Best build I have ever seen! Absolutely outstanding. Love the 4 types of seating the most. You are one awesome nephew!
thank you very much, too nice!
Amazing build! Commercial companies/sales people would sweat watching this.
A-MAZING !! Best van build I’ve seen to date.
thank you, appreciate you watching!
Well done! You have impressed me with the table/fridge storage.
This is the best I've seen so far. I've seen them all
well done!! one of the top mini van builds I have seen..
Thank you much!
@@BudgetBuildBureau i need you build my Van like that ;)
An A class job! All the comforts and storage you need, your uncle must be stoked. Well done!
Yes! Thank you!
You did a pretty GREAT job. Looks like a very well thought out plan.
I guess your uncle will be the judge & let you know how well it goes being in it.
👍🏻
So far so good!
Thanks for watching
Exceptionally well thought out and built van. Everything is top notch. You even bothered to move the license plate light and relocate the camera to accommodate that badass spare tire rack you built.
The thorough thought process is evident. Simple and pragmatic.
This build was very well thought out. Great job! Hope your aunt and uncle have fun adventures. 😊👍
wow, what a lucky uncle! just amazing workmanship. I kept thinking, man, this guy rocks!
Are you building these for a living or just your uncle? That is so comfortable and useful for anyone living out of their vans! Just amazing job
Kind of both. It takes me a long time alone, just built a full size transit build for my aunt which took around 1100 hours in 4months.
@@BudgetBuildBureau can you build tiny house also?like the ones and tiny house channel?
Great build. I’d love to get a closer look the details of the bed slide if you do another video.
Should have said more 1st time. Am 78 and bought the 2020 Sept of 19 so have been searching van builds since 2018. When Covid hit I just did temporary setup and went camping in Wyoming it worked fine so decided to buy a class B but too expensive for the time I would use it. Then.....today I saw this amazing buildout you did for your uncle. Incredible! After 3 years searching for perfect setup I found yours, it is beautiful and just what I would love to have. I’m an old woman so I don’t need the rack on the back and have 2 sun roofs so no fan? Anyway, are you interested in doing this for me? I’ve only put 5000 miles on van since new purchase.
This is by far the best build I've seen on a minivan.
Exceptional build! Truly impressive. What an engineer and designer you are. Brilliant.
Very impressed with all of your creative ideas!
Wow, I’ve seen LOTS of minivan conversions and this is one of my favorites! Will definitely get inspiration for my grand caravan build! Thanks!
Fantastic build, incredibly creative use of space. In fact, the only suggestion I can think of is to black out the edges of the cabinetry.
Wow this build is so clean and functional... this is what a "factory "
Toyota camper van would look like Imo
I wish they would start making campers again like they did in the 80’s and 90’s!
The nicest, cleanest, most well thought out conversion van I’ve ever seen. And I’ve viewed way too many! Stunningly brilliant.
Thank you very much, too kind!!
I LOVE EVERYTHING ABOUT THIS BUILD
Unbelievably well thought out. What a good nephew you are. Attractive interior, has all the bells and whistles of the bigger vans, great looking materials were used and totally love the pull out top over the fridge. Really, just a great build! Nice tour presentation.
Thank you much, very sweet of you!
Thanks for watching!
A good point also is the toilet is still accessible in bed configuration. Easy to relieve yourself at night if need be.
Wow! This is gorgeous and so functional. The drawer slides are brilliant. This is an exercise in comfort, ascetic and functionality.
I love your build! Did you disengage the airbags? And please, if you can, please consider making and selling plans, maybe by topic, instead of as a whole unit, so people can customize to their vans. Thank you for sharing!
Love how modular and straight forward everything is.. you can easily repair/replace elements as needed. Thanks for sharing!
This is indeed one of the most clever builds I've seen in a mini van so far. I've watched close to 8000 van life videos to date and can't say enough how well designed this is.
Thank you soooooo much for sharing with us.
be safe, stay well and God bless
Thank you so much, very kind of you!
Definitely the BEST “DIY” build I’ve ever seen online!!! By far!!! You obviously have a broad subset of varying skills in all the right ares for this conversion. You should consider going into business doing conversions like this. Incredible creativity and knowledge of your craft, from auto choices research to materials fabrication skills, to premium execution with both esthetics consideration and quality consideration for durability and longevity. I’ve always wanted a compact AWD mini van put together in this manner. I’ve owned everything from a 1984 ford econoline F350, to a Chrysler AWD town and country that had minor customization. But never to this degree. My grandfather was a builder and custom kitchen cabinet maker and had MAD skills like yours. I take after him in many ways, and learn quickly on the fly, but this build expanded my imagination! You really should consider an all out, brick and mortar location and conversion shop. You’d have them lining up at the door. Thank you very much for sharing your build especially in the detail you presented. Very helpful and inspiring. Best of luck with your future endeavors.
Thank you so much, very kind of you!
Once I get a shop at my new property I’d love to start doing more similar builds.
Thanks for watching!
You sir are a van build genius. This is stunning.
The most impressive minivan build I’ve ever seen - still looking for my jaw, it’s on the floor somewhere 😅 - Future VanLifer
I've watched a lot of SUV builds, and this is very functional. I like it a lot! I loved that you recessed the toilet in the floor. I'm gonna use that one. Ty! Only thing I would have done differently is moved the fridge away from the side door cuz I would want to occasionally use that area in front of the door as a cooking area. Opening that door, while cooking a meal, would provide the best ventilation. With the fridge underneath it, that would make cooking difficult. Happy trails!
One of the best builds I've seen and ive seen thousands.