I was part of a camper (tent) family growing up. Apart from the wet mornings, running to the bleak washrooms, the cold weather, dealing with large creepy crawlies and gales blowing the tents over, they were great holidays. Happy days!
Honest opinions is one of the best things about your channel. It sounds like you want most of the features of the larger van you checked out in the beginning of this series. While understand not wanting to turn into a van conversion channel. I do want to see Alex with power tools after one too many Ciders 🤣🤣🤣
Italy? My favorite place to travel... ever. I love the people, the food, the culture, the history, art, scenery... hell, I even love the graffiti in the cities. I learned enough Italian to order food, get a taxi, buy rail tickets, find a bathroom and most importantly, to thank people and be gracious. I have never had a bad experience with anyone in Italy. I use Bourdain's wisdom: eat what they eat, drink what they drink, be kind and learn the customs and manners before you go and it won't be a trip. It will be an experience. Cannot wait for your upcoming video... and in a classic Fiat, no less. EPIC!
I completely agree with your thoughts about a larger van. I was thinking that earlier, at the beginning of this series. But, now, I don't have to argue my points. You made them.
Pretty much everything you’ve both said about what you want from a van we can completely relate to. Fixed bed and kitchen is a must😅 completely agree you need the height too. Excited to see what van you go for!
Just wanted to say thanks for the idea. Just got back from a trip to the south coast where we did stay in Premier Inn’s but took our camping cooking equipment. We were able to cook all our meals outside and just boil up the kettle for a lovely cuppa where ever the need took, So “wild” hoteling 😂. We had pot noodle watching the sunset at Eastbourne, porridge for brekkie watching huge cruise ships at Bournemouth, Ravioli with the ponies in the New Forest and the complete highlight was Soup and crackers in the Shadow of Stonehenge, sitting in glee as we watched people coming and going on the visitor centre bus as we sat in a lane with other Campers enjoying the view. Also sort out the seven sisters because of your first video in this series and even though the walk nearly killed me it was a most def highlight. So again thank u for the glimmer of an idea that grew into a fab week. Tracy and Peter
You guys are genius to try out a camper van first! I am so excited for your future travels and really looking forward to your upcoming Italy trip! Thanks for what you do and for doing it so well!
So many good thoughts on a campers. We shy away from campers because of the plumbing issues. I only burn too; I love shade lol looking forward to Germany to Italy series.-Shawna🍁
watch Elsa Rhae & Barron - they live full time in a Scamp and have found out how to supply electricity and upload videos, organize food, clothing, and other needs in their camper that I think you both would find useful
I’m bit of a late comer to your channel, but I’m absolutely loving it, I’m looking for my 1st. Camper and I’ll probably go for a T4 to start with, good luck and keep the video’s coming xx
Given that you will mostly travel on mainland Europe, have you considered getting one with the left hand steering? More choices if a used one will do and possibly cheaper. Have you seen Kara and Nate’s van? Watch their Banff series too. Two other options.
The composting toilet is odor free and much easier to dispose of. Trust me. So glad your going for the convenience of shower in the van and a good kitchen. You'll be much happier. Comfort is Huge important. Also get a 4 or 5 G booster so you won't have issues uploading videos.
Oooooooh more BEANS!!!!! Best news I've had in ages!!! Love you guys...and hope the new wheels are yours very soon!! Name for your new vehicle.....Beano!!🚚🚚🚚🚚xx
High roof panel van has many advantages over a low roof, also one great advantage over a large coachbuilt on chassis. That is access to places with height restrictions. You two should be fine, my late father had a high roof for many years, he even lived in it for 2 years in Ireland.
I love Eric & Allison, but steer clear of what they are doing! That said, I'm fascinated to see their finished project... or the bonfire! I agree with others - the Motorhome seemed to be ideal for you if size no longer matters.More likely to house the facilities you wanted. Just need to watch some of the narrow roads though if using a M/H unless you can find a compact one that has what you need. And agreed, get a safe if you can fit it in somewhere!
You don't need to worry about all the plumbing of a black tank toilet. Go with a built in cassette toilet. Very easy to empty, and comes as a complete kit, so no additional plumbing required.
Always enjoy your videos. I watch them either at mu lunchtime during work or after dinner when i usually need a laugh. Take care and be safe. Dana Pennsylvania, USA 👍🏻
Brilliant idea you’ll have so much freedom. Kara & Nate bought a Sprinter Van, sounds like it would check off your must haves for a van. Check them out. 🚐💕
Yeah the sprinter vans looks great but are a tad expensive compared to other models.. Would definitely be keen to look at some though! Will check out their build for sure 👍
Love you guys. Before you buy, make sure you watch your friends..."The endless adventure" (I found you on their channel, by the way). They got a great deal on a van but it was so old, that they now need to spend too much time and $$$$ on it. I wonder if they could do it all over again...if they would buy a newer van. lol Watch, Liza Lansing...she and her husband bought a van in Europe, converted it, traveled and then built a tiny home in Poland. :D
@Craig You're right. I really enjoy seeing "The Endless Adventurers" fixing their van. I'm sure I will enjoy the Travel Beans making changes to their van. However, I was just cautioning if the Travel Beans wanted to invest their money on a vehicle that's in good shape, which they still have to modify, or do you want to invest lots of time and money on repairs for an older van that is less expensive (along with modifications). After seeing many UA-cam videos on this subject, I have to ask myself these questions too.
For the awning for the van, could you have a portable one that isn't too large to carry but you can put up easily, rather than a fixed one on the side of the van? With a non fixed awning you can choose where to put it depending on where you're parked. Something like the Moonshade awnings? Enjoy the German sausages and the bella vita.
Sounds like you are looking for the longer wheelbase version of the US RAM PROMASTER that will meet your requirements to fit in a shower and a permanent bed. I think it trades as the FIAT DUCATO in Europe. Its relatively decent on MPG as well.
The van that you guy just rented wasn't a full sized Ford Transit, it was a Ford Transit Custom, which is a mid-sized van. It only comes in 2 wheelbases, the short wheelbase (115.5"), and the long wheelbase (129.9"). You guys had the long wheelbase model. In the US, you rented a full sized Transit, which was a long wheelbase (147.6") with the high roof & extended body. I'm from the US, where only the Connect & full sized Transits are sold, whereas the Custom is only sold in the UK, Europe, Mexico & China.
Awning is a must on a van, we use ours every trip! We’ve just watched this video in our van in Luxembourg, heading towards Italy tomorrow so we’ll give you a kopite wave if we see you 😁 Just tagged you in our Instagram story too 🤣
Hello beans! Great thoughts about your vanlife experiences. I've just binged on a number of vlogs from Andrew Ditton - he has loads of reviews about campervans, caravans & motorhomes. He gets commissioned to travel & review the vans, which I think is super cool. He also has vids going to trade shows to check out the latest rigs. Another vlogger is Elementvanlife, who also showcases some DIY vans - very interesting too. Even Sherpa dog's dad (Jamie) has bought a new red van & is now renovating it. Maybe you could buy a van & modify it to have a pop-up roof? Or buy the ready made pop-tops. Whatever you decide, we'll be following your adventures. Cheers & greets from sunny Philippines! 🇵🇭 🌞
Thanks so much for the info on other channels.. I'm sure we'll be consuming a lot more camper renovation content in the upcoming months! Much appreciated 👍
I'd look at an LDV Maxus V80 not the new kid on the block but brilliant value for money .Italian engine and gearbox.Check out Vantrader .A lot cheaper than a Transit.
If you are heading from Germany to Italy, I really suggest going down through Switzerland, and in my opinion the San Bernadino Pass is more beautiful than the San Gottardo, that is driving over the mountain pass, not through the tunnel. I lived in Lugano, the country there is properly stunning. The villages of Morcote and Figino on lake Lugano are lovely. Also take a trip to Ascona on Lago Maggiore, another stunning spot. From Lugano there is a really good drive to Menaggio on Lago di Como in Italy and then the town of Como, along the way some amazing villas to look at as you drive past. Not to mention the gelato and if you like steak, you really do have to try the bistecca alla fiorentina and the nero d'avola wine from sicily. If you do stop in Lugano and fancy a hot chocolate to die for then got to La Bohème, Via Cattedrale in Lugano. I hope it is still there. Their hot chocolate will make you tingle.
Thanks for the great travel tips Russell! 👍 And even if we can't do that all this time, we will have all the time in the world once we get our van! Thanks
Have you followed storychasing.com? Amber travels in a Hymer Aktiv Camper Van. I am fairly sure I heard her say (in one of her videos) that she doesn't have a shower. But, all the rest of what you wanted is a part of her van.
Go as large as you are comfortable with driving, with space for a couple of bikes for exploring and going for the milk and bread, the porta potti or a cassette toilet is the way to go. Take a peek at Outliers Overland channel, they have a 4 X 4 expedition camper in Alaska and have lots of tips for extended journeys in an 8 X 12 ft box. 💋💋👸🧔
Have you checked out Danny and Tulu yet. They chose a Fiat as it’s the wider van so they can sleep sideways at the back. Check out their van build you won’t regret it.
No we haven't but will check them out, thanks 👍 I think we're planning on having the sideways bed if we don't go for the bed lift mechanism so would be cool to see how they did it
Not wanting to be an RV renovation channel is brave although the Endless Adventure will be a hard act to follow. However - that said - an English slant on such work would be interesting :)
Will cost a wee bit more but a lot of boat owners are moving to composting toilets which you don't need to empty as often and when you do you can basically dump it in a normal bin. Think they are a bit more expensive but worth a look.
You should check out Alison Anderson's recent video about her SUV camping set up! She has some great things that I think would be handy for you guys, being that you both work online and value showers hahaha - ua-cam.com/video/VEfu4bAn0as/v-deo.html
hi beans. first, you HAVE TO check Sara & Alex James channel and this video specifically ua-cam.com/video/hxjF36jLcec/v-deo.html they have the best conversions imo. also type van conversion with bathroom and shower to see a lot of good ideas. also check this playlist ua-cam.com/video/dvHUhpJjVQo/v-deo.html from Eamon & Bec for great van hacks. good luck
May I draw your attention to an article in today's Sunday Times any one wishing to purchase a white van is in for a nasty surprise since the Corvid 19 outbreak prices for Transits are going through the roof paying thousands of pounds above what they were worth before the outbreak.
You are such a looovvveeelllyyy couple!!!!!💖 But please lady, don't say that you don't want to be fixing a bed to sleep because you are on your 30's. You sound like an old lady. I'm almost 50 therefore I am a mummy!!! Just kidding, Mexican humor 😁. Greetings from Guadalajara Jalisco México. Adios.☺️
Hi both, enjoying your channel a lot. If you haven’t seen it yet check out Nate Murphys channel, he builds out two vans, first being a high roof Transit which he sells then builds out an improved version. Might be good for ideas for you ua-cam.com/video/RRhiIr4c424/v-deo.html
I was part of a camper (tent) family growing up. Apart from the wet mornings, running to the bleak washrooms, the cold weather, dealing with large creepy crawlies and gales blowing the tents over, they were great holidays. Happy days!
Love your videos. Buy one in better condition than the endless adventurers.
Agree. I was going to mention we're already watching a van renovation channel and don't need a second one.
lol
Take a look at an Adria Twin, I think it would meet almost all of your needs, we have one and love it.
Wow they look great 🤩
Honest opinions is one of the best things about your channel. It sounds like you want most of the features of the larger van you checked out in the beginning of this series. While understand not wanting to turn into a van conversion channel. I do want to see Alex with power tools after one too many Ciders 🤣🤣🤣
Italy? My favorite place to travel... ever. I love the people, the food, the culture, the history, art, scenery... hell, I even love the graffiti in the cities. I learned enough Italian to order food, get a taxi, buy rail tickets, find a bathroom and most importantly, to thank people and be gracious. I have never had a bad experience with anyone in Italy. I use Bourdain's wisdom: eat what they eat, drink what they drink, be kind and learn the customs and manners before you go and it won't be a trip. It will be an experience. Cannot wait for your upcoming video... and in a classic Fiat, no less. EPIC!
Lookforward to your next video. Black forest is amazing Take care .
I completely agree with your thoughts about a larger van. I was thinking that earlier, at the beginning of this series. But, now, I don't have to argue my points. You made them.
Pretty much everything you’ve both said about what you want from a van we can completely relate to. Fixed bed and kitchen is a must😅 completely agree you need the height too. Excited to see what van you go for!
Thanks guys! It's pretty overwhelming how much there is to think about but also really exciting 😁
Thanks for sharing the information! It will definitely be useful for my future travels!
Just wanted to say thanks for the idea. Just got back from a trip to the south coast where we did stay in Premier Inn’s but took our camping cooking equipment. We were able to cook all our meals outside and just boil up the kettle for a lovely cuppa where ever the need took, So “wild” hoteling 😂. We had pot noodle watching the sunset at Eastbourne, porridge for brekkie watching huge cruise ships at Bournemouth, Ravioli with the ponies in the New Forest and the complete highlight was Soup and crackers in the Shadow of Stonehenge, sitting in glee as we watched people coming and going on the visitor centre bus as we sat in a lane with other Campers enjoying the view. Also sort out the seven sisters because of your first video in this series and even though the walk nearly killed me it was a most def highlight. So again thank u for the glimmer of an idea that grew into a fab week. Tracy and Peter
I just couldn’t do a van like you did. I just need more space and more accessories....ok...I need a glam van!
Haha we all need a glam van bob!!
You guys are genius to try out a camper van first! I am so excited for your future travels and really looking forward to your upcoming Italy trip! Thanks for what you do and for doing it so well!
So many good thoughts on a campers. We shy away from campers because of the plumbing issues. I only burn too; I love shade lol looking forward to Germany to Italy series.-Shawna🍁
Thanks Shawna!
Sounds great looking forward to your next adventure!
Ahhh can’t wait to see what you buy!!
Eek!!
You need a Winnebago Revel! Check out Wings & Wheels Alaska.
Oh yeah. They're nice! Will definitely check out those guys too, thanks! 👍
watch Elsa Rhae & Barron - they live full time in a Scamp and have found out how to supply electricity and upload videos, organize food, clothing, and other needs in their camper that I think you both would find useful
I’m bit of a late comer to your channel, but I’m absolutely loving it, I’m looking for my 1st. Camper and I’ll probably go for a T4 to start with, good luck and keep the video’s coming xx
Given that you will mostly travel on mainland Europe, have you considered getting one with the left hand steering? More choices if a used one will do and possibly cheaper.
Have you seen Kara and Nate’s van? Watch their Banff series too. Two other options.
Can't wait to see which van you choose. You guys are addictive. Loving it.
The composting toilet is odor free and much easier to dispose of. Trust me. So glad your going for the convenience of shower in the van and a good kitchen. You'll be much happier. Comfort is Huge important. Also get a 4 or 5 G booster so you won't have issues uploading videos.
Great to hear, thanks for the info and tips!! 👍
Oooooooh more BEANS!!!!! Best news I've had in ages!!! Love you guys...and hope the new wheels are yours very soon!! Name for your new vehicle.....Beano!!🚚🚚🚚🚚xx
High roof panel van has many advantages over a low roof, also one great advantage over a large coachbuilt on chassis. That is access to places with height restrictions. You two should be fine, my late father had a high roof for many years, he even lived in it for 2 years in Ireland.
So lucky to be in the Black Forest! Our fav place on earth, I miss it so
I love Eric & Allison, but steer clear of what they are doing! That said, I'm fascinated to see their finished project... or the bonfire! I agree with others - the Motorhome seemed to be ideal for you if size no longer matters.More likely to house the facilities you wanted. Just need to watch some of the narrow roads though if using a M/H unless you can find a compact one that has what you need. And agreed, get a safe if you can fit it in somewhere!
You don't need to worry about all the plumbing of a black tank toilet. Go with a built in cassette toilet. Very easy to empty, and comes as a complete kit, so no additional plumbing required.
Always enjoy your videos. I watch them either at mu lunchtime during work or after dinner when i usually need a laugh. Take care and be safe. Dana Pennsylvania, USA 👍🏻
You also need a small safe for your expensive equipment!
Brilliant idea you’ll have so much freedom. Kara & Nate bought a Sprinter Van, sounds like it would check off your must haves for a van. Check them out. 🚐💕
Yeah the sprinter vans looks great but are a tad expensive compared to other models.. Would definitely be keen to look at some though! Will check out their build for sure 👍
Wow you still have quite an accent for growing up in the states. Happy travels.
Love you guys. Before you buy, make sure you watch your friends..."The endless adventure" (I found you on their channel, by the way). They got a great deal on a van but it was so old, that they now need to spend too much time and $$$$ on it. I wonder if they could do it all over again...if they would buy a newer van. lol Watch, Liza Lansing...she and her husband bought a van in Europe, converted it, traveled and then built a tiny home in Poland. :D
But Lisa's husband Kuba, does do all the conversions and repairs. He built a little house in Mazury. Amazing he learns from the internet
@Craig You're right. I really enjoy seeing "The Endless Adventurers" fixing their van. I'm sure I will enjoy the Travel Beans making changes to their van. However, I was just cautioning if the Travel Beans wanted to invest their money on a vehicle that's in good shape, which they still have to modify, or do you want to invest lots of time and money on repairs for an older van that is less expensive (along with modifications). After seeing many UA-cam videos on this subject, I have to ask myself these questions too.
For the awning for the van, could you have a portable one that isn't too large to carry but you can put up easily, rather than a fixed one on the side of the van? With a non fixed awning you can choose where to put it depending on where you're parked. Something like the Moonshade awnings?
Enjoy the German sausages and the bella vita.
We hadn't seen the moon shade awnings before, thanks for the tip! Will have to check them out! Thanks!
Tbh I’d love to see van renovation channel. Renobean sounds good 😆
Sounds like you are looking for the longer wheelbase version of the US RAM PROMASTER that will meet your requirements to fit in a shower and a permanent bed. I think it trades as the FIAT DUCATO in Europe. Its relatively decent on MPG as well.
Check out the Wingamm camper vans. They should be right up your street.
The van that you guy just rented wasn't a full sized Ford Transit, it was a Ford Transit Custom, which is a mid-sized van. It only comes in 2 wheelbases, the short wheelbase (115.5"), and the long wheelbase (129.9"). You guys had the long wheelbase model. In the US, you rented a full sized Transit, which was a long wheelbase (147.6") with the high roof & extended body. I'm from the US, where only the Connect & full sized Transits are sold, whereas the Custom is only sold in the UK, Europe, Mexico & China.
Living your dreams is what life is about
Very excited for the van renovation, I am keen to do one here in the States so will watch intently :)
Awning is a must on a van, we use ours every trip!
We’ve just watched this video in our van in Luxembourg, heading towards Italy tomorrow so we’ll give you a kopite wave if we see you 😁
Just tagged you in our Instagram story too 🤣
Nice vid, Nicer T shirt ;-)
Love you bro
Hello beans! Great thoughts about your vanlife experiences. I've just binged on a number of vlogs from Andrew Ditton - he has loads of reviews about campervans, caravans & motorhomes. He gets commissioned to travel & review the vans, which I think is super cool. He also has vids going to trade shows to check out the latest rigs. Another vlogger is Elementvanlife, who also showcases some DIY vans - very interesting too. Even Sherpa dog's dad (Jamie) has bought a new red van & is now renovating it. Maybe you could buy a van & modify it to have a pop-up roof? Or buy the ready made pop-tops. Whatever you decide, we'll be following your adventures. Cheers & greets from sunny Philippines! 🇵🇭 🌞
Thanks so much for the info on other channels.. I'm sure we'll be consuming a lot more camper renovation content in the upcoming months! Much appreciated 👍
I'd look at an LDV Maxus V80 not the new kid on the block but brilliant value for money .Italian engine and gearbox.Check out Vantrader .A lot cheaper than a Transit.
If you are heading from Germany to Italy, I really suggest going down through Switzerland, and in my opinion the San Bernadino Pass is more beautiful than the San Gottardo, that is driving over the mountain pass, not through the tunnel. I lived in Lugano, the country there is properly stunning. The villages of Morcote and Figino on lake Lugano are lovely. Also take a trip to Ascona on Lago Maggiore, another stunning spot. From Lugano there is a really good drive to Menaggio on Lago di Como in Italy and then the town of Como, along the way some amazing villas to look at as you drive past. Not to mention the gelato and if you like steak, you really do have to try the bistecca alla fiorentina and the nero d'avola wine from sicily. If you do stop in Lugano and fancy a hot chocolate to die for then got to La Bohème, Via Cattedrale in Lugano. I hope it is still there. Their hot chocolate will make you tingle.
Thanks for the great travel tips Russell! 👍 And even if we can't do that all this time, we will have all the time in the world once we get our van! Thanks
Nice
So you’re saying the last time you said “beans out” u really had your beans out 😂
Dedication
Have you followed storychasing.com? Amber travels in a Hymer Aktiv Camper Van. I am fairly sure I heard her say (in one of her videos) that she doesn't have a shower. But, all the rest of what you wanted is a part of her van.
No we haven't but thanks for the tip! Will check her website out 👍
👍
A hydraulic bed would be a major plus just for the extra space
Agreed.. Let's see what we can do!
Just curious, does/will Brexit have an impact on your ability to travel around Europe at a moment’s notice?
Who knows! The whole thing is a big mystery to be honest.. Stay tuned!
What keeps the hot tug afloat ..hollow walls?
Go as large as you are comfortable with driving, with space for a couple of bikes for exploring and going for the milk and bread, the porta potti or a cassette toilet is the way to go. Take a peek at Outliers Overland channel, they have a 4 X 4 expedition camper in Alaska and have lots of tips for extended journeys in an 8 X 12 ft box. 💋💋👸🧔
Great idea about stowing the bikes.
Have you checked out Danny and Tulu yet. They chose a Fiat as it’s the wider van so they can sleep sideways at the back. Check out their van build you won’t regret it.
No we haven't but will check them out, thanks 👍
I think we're planning on having the sideways bed if we don't go for the bed lift mechanism so would be cool to see how they did it
Wow, first viewer!!!!
have a look at a channel called foxes afloat the have some good power ideas you could use
When you do your van I advise you watch Greg Virgo’s Utube channel and gadget John
Hey guys, new to your channel, you were recommended by @stephenandandie
Look forward to seeing your adventures! ❤
omg you guys if you come to the treetop walk in Bad Wildbad make sure to tell me...as vloggers you could get a free entrance :))
Ahhhh we're so sad as we've left the black forest now.. Definitely would have taken you up on that if we had time.. Maybe next time 😊👍 thank you
Not wanting to be an RV renovation channel is brave although the Endless Adventure will be a hard act to follow. However - that said - an English slant on such work would be interesting :)
We can't wait to see how their rv turns out!
Will cost a wee bit more but a lot of boat owners are moving to composting toilets which you don't need to empty as often and when you do you can basically dump it in a normal bin. Think they are a bit more expensive but worth a look.
Nice one Scott.. Have heard a bit about them but not looked into it properly. Will definitely check them out 👍 thanks
@@TravelBeans no worries at all.
1st comment bro
You should check out Alison Anderson's recent video about her SUV camping set up! She has some great things that I think would be handy for you guys, being that you both work online and value showers hahaha - ua-cam.com/video/VEfu4bAn0as/v-deo.html
Anything less that an old VW campervan is a compromise.
hi beans. first, you HAVE TO check Sara & Alex James channel and this video specifically ua-cam.com/video/hxjF36jLcec/v-deo.html they have the best conversions imo. also type van conversion with bathroom and shower to see a lot of good ideas. also check this playlist ua-cam.com/video/dvHUhpJjVQo/v-deo.html from Eamon & Bec for great van hacks. good luck
May I draw your attention to an article in today's Sunday Times any one wishing to purchase a white van is in for a nasty surprise since the Corvid 19 outbreak prices for Transits are going through the roof paying thousands of pounds above what they were worth before the outbreak.
I hope you haven’t been chopping down trees for your campfire Alex. Look at the evidence behind you.
Travel in Africa, I have space for you in Uganda
You are such a looovvveeelllyyy couple!!!!!💖
But please lady, don't say that you don't want to be fixing a bed to sleep because you are on your 30's. You sound like an old lady. I'm almost 50 therefore I am a mummy!!! Just kidding, Mexican humor 😁. Greetings from Guadalajara Jalisco México. Adios.☺️
Hi both, enjoying your channel a lot. If you haven’t seen it yet check out Nate Murphys channel, he builds out two vans, first being a high roof Transit which he sells then builds out an improved version. Might be good for ideas for you ua-cam.com/video/RRhiIr4c424/v-deo.html
Hmmm. All I see is Emma doing everything. Maybe get a van to suit her?
Buy a house ???