WHY DID I GET SUCH A SMALL VAN?!

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  • Опубліковано 12 вер 2024
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    Hey everyone! I’m Nate. I live the van life full time out of a Nissan NV200 self built camper conversion. In this video I explore Santa Cruz and discuss why I decided to get a compact cargo van for my camper setup. Please like, subscribe, and feel free to ask any questions below!
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 877

  • @Needle620
    @Needle620 3 роки тому +78

    Toyota needs to get in the cargo van business! I’ll buy one in a heartbeat.

    • @dianeibsen5994
      @dianeibsen5994 3 роки тому

      Hi. Thank you for your comment. what do you mean by cargo van? I thought cargo meant the front and the back are connected.. easy access to the front in the back? When you say Toyota isn't cargo I thought their vans are cargo?

    • @invictuscrown4026
      @invictuscrown4026 2 роки тому +5

      Toyota ProAce nowadays

    • @kyungkim2446
      @kyungkim2446 2 роки тому +1

      Two words.
      Chicken tax

    • @Needle620
      @Needle620 2 роки тому

      @@dianeibsen5994 To me a cargo van is build for hauling things. Seats are for passengers, obviously. Example: I had a cargo set up on my bicycle to carry more things on my commute to work. Or, I can have it build for a passenger as well.

    • @Hankxiong
      @Hankxiong 2 роки тому +3

      They have them. Just not here in the states

  • @joegaragozzo1640
    @joegaragozzo1640 5 років тому +319

    The van looks great👍 . You got a nice little home and a massive front yard called the World . That's all u need ..

    • @tbz1551
      @tbz1551 5 років тому +3

      It’s the backyard...

    • @kittykatcongregation
      @kittykatcongregation 5 років тому

      ❤️

    • @scgs25
      @scgs25 4 роки тому

      Beautiful

    • @moniquechristiansen6202
      @moniquechristiansen6202 4 роки тому +2

      I like that. 😊

    • @KatrinaQuisilVlogs
      @KatrinaQuisilVlogs 4 роки тому +2

      I prefer small vans too because of my job in the city during weekdays. Traffic here in the Philippines is bad. Btw, the pop top is amazing. I wanna have that too.

  • @S.G..E555
    @S.G..E555 4 роки тому +13

    It’s always been about the smaller living for me.. there’s something so great about having a compact space and really appreciating the necessities we own.. great van 👍

  • @RVingLiveTheDream
    @RVingLiveTheDream 5 років тому +4

    Small van equals big adventures. That’s why we downsized from a class A to a Roadtrek. Happy travels. VanLife Rocks 🚐

  • @age_of_reason
    @age_of_reason 4 роки тому +8

    The single most important thing in a van is the bed and you killed it. Looks very comfy (one piece), looks like it can be leveled, and it stows away very easy and fast. Just perfect!

  • @raraavis7782
    @raraavis7782 5 років тому +56

    Couldn’t agree more. Living in Germany (where fuel is expensive), I‘ll certainly opt for a smaller vehicle and also pay close attention to the weight of what I put in there. No wood paneling and massiv wood furniture for me 😄
    I‘ll use felt or fabric for the ceiling and plastic boxes for storage.
    And I‘ll definitely rather invest more in the vehicle itself and keep the inside simple at first. You can always upgrade that later...but you don’t want to put weeks worth of work into a van just to have it break down on you quickly.

    • @TheMcdrewb
      @TheMcdrewb 5 років тому

      EJSFilms2K how do you stealth camp in a trailer

    • @0xsergy
      @0xsergy 5 років тому +1

      @@TheMcdrewb Can't in the city but there are definitely areas you can find. Also some walmarts are pretty lenient especially if you're not long time.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому

      @@0xsergy I'd imagine leaving a towable at walmart, without a vehicle, is not allowed.

    • @quietstorm8100
      @quietstorm8100 4 роки тому +1

      Oh wowww thanks guy....im about to enter the van life...i am soooo exxcited...my kids think i have lost my mind but they are happy for me...once they got out on their own...i realized that i did not need as much space n things tht i thought i needed...😻🚬

    • @okmmauh
      @okmmauh 4 роки тому

      Rara Avis . I am in VW Caddy Maxi. Camp on the floor. Curtain hooks in the holes at the top of the walls. Soft zip bags hang on those hooks. Storage under the front seats. So comfortable

  • @tegmapat11
    @tegmapat11 5 років тому +182

    Yeah, Nissan's have gone downhill, but.... have you seen the videos of some of the most popular UA-cam Nomads who have big fancy Sprinter's and Ram's, and yet have had major mechanical problems which have cost them thousands? Not everyone can afford what others say is the best, but are they really the best? Personally, I would never want a Mercedes engine myself, as I don't think they are any better than others yet cost far more in repairs. So, hang in there with your NV. Like you said, a lot has to do with how well you take care of your van and it sounds like you have good plans for the upkeep of yours. I think that is the secret to any vehicle, taking care of it properly and taking preventive measures BEFORE possible failures. Great video!

    • @dwaynejones1555
      @dwaynejones1555 5 років тому +3

      Teg Tru Dat

    • @Kevincrow420
      @Kevincrow420 5 років тому +4

      Fo Sho.

    • @whackwhack9853
      @whackwhack9853 5 років тому +1

      Shiz niz

    • @Kevincrow420
      @Kevincrow420 5 років тому +1

      @@whackwhack9853
      That's what's up!

    • @lecsu131
      @lecsu131 5 років тому +13

      You don't trust Mercedes engines as they are not better? What hole have you been living in? Sprinter Diesel engines easily go beyond 500.000 km without repair, just common sense care. The Sprinter is not famous because of the Camper-Van-Conversion world, it's famous because it's a cargo hauler with decades of history behind it and being a cargo-hauler you can imagine those guys are doing millions of miles - if there was a problem with a line of engines it would be a massive problem for Mercedes. And 90% of people doing Sprinter conversions start with a Second Hand Sprinter, which means it's got at least a few hundred thousand kilometers on it and some years and some thousands of tonnes of cargo that was hauled back and forth. YOU WILL have some mechanical issues, especially if the owner before you treated it badly.

  • @WeatherPilot
    @WeatherPilot 5 років тому +22

    Make sure to keep that seal between the pop-top and the roof of the van clean and treat it with Sonax Gummipfleger, 303 rubber seal protectant or something similar to keep it from drying out and pliable so that it doesnt leak.

    • @oscarmike4596
      @oscarmike4596 5 років тому +1

      Leaks are definitely in the future, simply a matter of time

  • @macymango
    @macymango 5 років тому +7

    For some reason I was against bringing my instant pot into my van build...your success has inspired me!

  • @DT-ds7sc
    @DT-ds7sc 5 років тому +118

    Scotty would recommend you get a 1994 celica and put a pop top on that🤣

    • @waltertalbot9472
      @waltertalbot9472 5 років тому +2

      D T ..and do it !”before is too late “!! .. haha . I have to confess, I replace my 4 Volvo’s for Lexus and Toyota.

    • @eriktruchinskas3747
      @eriktruchinskas3747 5 років тому +3

      Rev up your celica!

  • @cgretired6976
    @cgretired6976 5 років тому +2

    Nate,
    This video FINALLY made up my mind…. for good!
    I soon want to start my own nomadic life and have contemplated just about every vehicle
    My 2003 Honda Element
    A minivan
    A small skoolie
    An older Dodge 15 passenger van
    A crossover SUV
    This video helped me realize key points on beginning and then sustaining this life style. One needs great gas mileage, great stealth capability, and a 100,000 mile bumper to bumper warranty - all while owning a vehicle you can afford to drive cross country or use as a daily driver.
    The ultimate utilitarian vehicle!
    Great choice and keep the videos coming!!
    Thank you so very much

  • @KatyInNH
    @KatyInNH 5 років тому +2

    Hi Nate,
    If you have a glass or metal leftover container that will fit in the IP, you can do pot-in-pot cooking - you can use anything you can bake in.
    Fill the stainless liner with an inch of water, and place you leftover container on the rack (take any tight covers off (one doesn’t wan to have a closed container in a pressure cooker), and cover loosely with paper towel or foil, etc. to keep pressure lid from getting dirty. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes. Then Do a natural release. That way, the food will heat through, and the only dirty dish will be the leftover container (careful when getting it out-will be hot). The water can be used to wash the leftover dish.
    This method works well. It takes a little longer to heat up than directly in the liner, but is a nice alternative.
    FYI, I use my IP to heat water versus running my propane
    water heater sometimes.
    One question on the van - how high is it inside with the pop top down?
    Thanks for the great videos

  • @RonInAVan
    @RonInAVan 5 років тому +10

    Minimalist is what I love and would definitely be me if I was traveling by myself. Sometimes smaller is better and less stuff...you have the right idea for sure. Great video Nate.

  • @pedex252
    @pedex252 5 років тому +2

    My Chevy express van 2500 has been getting 18.x - 20mpg on the highway pretty consistently. They don't do as bad as many think. I have had full size vans that got like 10mpg but the modern engines and transmissions make a huge difference. Also the NV200 has a weight capacity of only 1500lbs........which much equipment boondocking for long periods you'd be overweight probably unless you go incredibly minimalist. The NV200 also has short legs, about 350 miles per tank, out west in the high prairies that will be an issue. It is a trade off no matter what you pick.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому

      The tank is small, but high mpg helps make up for that.

    • @pedex252
      @pedex252 5 років тому

      @@taradead Well, until you hit the Dakotas, Wyoming, or Montana then it would be wise to get a extra 5 gallon fuel can to carry with you. Out there 350 mile range is pretty small.

    • @justwannasay5454
      @justwannasay5454 5 років тому

      I recently bought a 2017 GMC Savana 2500 cargo van with added fiberglass (bubbletop) hightop and I love it. Came with a rollover warranty. 🤗

  • @DeerheartStudioArts
    @DeerheartStudioArts 5 років тому +82

    yor vids are so well edited! thanks again for doing UA-cam

  • @jasonpolski9966
    @jasonpolski9966 5 років тому +37

    Him mentioning Scotty Kilmer just made my day lol

    • @sean8051
      @sean8051 5 років тому

      Looooool. So great

    • @dwaynejones1555
      @dwaynejones1555 5 років тому

      Jason Yep

    • @markconger8049
      @markconger8049 5 років тому +2

      Scotty is a riot. Just watched his video on the 1994 (?) Toyota Celica being the best car. I think he might be right!

    • @markconger8049
      @markconger8049 5 років тому

      @J G - this one: ua-cam.com/video/Q-M0M69lIFY/v-deo.html

  • @24hourtravellers
    @24hourtravellers 5 років тому +115

    Your cinematography has improved so much since you began. 💚

    • @HPeterJi
      @HPeterJi 5 років тому +1

      24 Hour Travellers I totally agree. Man, I haven’t watched his videos for quite some time and just watched this one, and I am very impressed by both the cinematography and his new home.

    • @chrism7067
      @chrism7067 5 років тому

      the casey neistat special
      He has changed how a lot of vloggers do their vids

  • @fernwehforevertearofjoy409
    @fernwehforevertearofjoy409 5 років тому +2

    No explanations necessary, Nate😊. Especially having added the pop-top, your choice appears to be the perfect little home for YOU!....and that's all that matters! JOY! 💚

  • @yohann1155
    @yohann1155 4 роки тому +55

    Liked the video......
    $9000 for the pop????
    Thats were you lost me!!
    1/2 the price of the van.

    • @youarehere1251
      @youarehere1251 4 роки тому

      Yo Hann higher resale value, just like home improvement. And he got a huge discount by doing promotion for the company.

    • @porkchop1343
      @porkchop1343 4 роки тому +4

      Lost me too.

    • @eduardoleon2106
      @eduardoleon2106 4 роки тому +2

      @@youarehere1251 the van is still garbage those 9k are completely lost smh.

    • @age_of_reason
      @age_of_reason 4 роки тому +2

      Wow, that's highway robbery.

  • @BudgetTravelGuy
    @BudgetTravelGuy 5 років тому +6

    No such thing as "too small" if you works for you! I've gone coast to coast in a minivan before on long trips. Plus, it's still more space than you've been used to....safe travels!

  • @MrMinimalst
    @MrMinimalst 5 років тому +2

    "...it's pretty rare that I actually want to eat the food I cook for myself." 😆😆😆 Nate your decisions to get the NV200 make so much sense to me. You're a master level minimalist for certain, I always enjoy hearing you speak the good word. Take care man!

  • @1101agaoj
    @1101agaoj 5 років тому +5

    Quality of your productions is next level, really and truly. I can tell you that I look forward to every new video. Keep up the good work! You are living what so many folks can only dream. Thanks

  • @djcolt100
    @djcolt100 5 років тому +25

    I think it’s a great choice! Murphy bed + pop-top = versatility

  • @combatmedic91-b76
    @combatmedic91-b76 3 роки тому +1

    Was surprised to hear Nissan has lost the quality it once had??!! I owned a Nissan truck 1993 it lasted until 2018 I sold it for 1,700. I wanted small van never thought Nissan would dive, but the warranty sounds good & the warranty I had in 93 truck was good. I like your videos thank you good 👍jod! I want a pop top also & something small to drive you did a great job on converting your van for camping!

  • @105cathy
    @105cathy 5 років тому +4

    We have had excellent performance from two Nissan vehicles. We tow our Casita with aPathfinder. Traveled almost 70,000 miles with zero problems. Have 230,000 miles on and going strong ! Looking at the larger NV for our next....

  • @djpuplex
    @djpuplex 5 років тому +22

    I chose the transit connect because of the cruise control, backup camera and over storage in the cab, but can't deny in jealous of that warranty.

    • @Bob-hi2xh
      @Bob-hi2xh 5 років тому +7

      Cruise control and backup camera can be added for less then $500
      A full size transit or sprinter will always be better. More headroom and more options

    • @Bob-hi2xh
      @Bob-hi2xh 5 років тому

      @J G i have 4 cargo vans and one of them is a sprinter 2500 170" dually. Yes they are a expensive option but you get maximum space. My transit high roof and Express are cheaper to run but for maxinum cargo hauling nothing beats a sprinter other then a box truck like a NPR or a cut away.
      And all my vans have Viper alarms with sensors. No one comes close to my babies.
      I would still choose a Chevy Express/Savannah over this toy van. A small 1500 with a V6 doesnt waist much gas

    • @Bob-hi2xh
      @Bob-hi2xh 5 років тому +2

      @J G i have convenience stores around California. My vans are on the road 6 days out of the week. My first van (2005 chevy express 2500) is still runing strong with 450,000 miles.
      I would never consider a NV or express city or connect. I dont see any practicality in those vans. Even a old Astro is better

    • @Bob-hi2xh
      @Bob-hi2xh 5 років тому

      @J G yeah but ive hit my head plenty of times that i bet this guy will regret a super low roof line after his back starts hurting and his head hits the roof.
      Makes for fun entertainment though

    • @Bob-hi2xh
      @Bob-hi2xh 5 років тому +1

      @J G true that. Forgot this guy lived in a truck and a Element. Vandwellers always have to see the under belly of the US. Its a scary place. Stay safe.

  • @JonathanPanet
    @JonathanPanet 5 років тому +20

    I driver a nv200 It’s great van. .. my van has just hit 50000mils Only Problem I had was the wiper blades stop .working. And nissa fix for free!!!

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому

      Have you had the transmission fluid changed? I heard nissan recommends it at 60k miles, but some have it done every 30k miles...although it is expensive (like $200).

    • @lukkassuhn6761
      @lukkassuhn6761 5 років тому

      @@taradead I'm sure you can cut that in half or better if you do it yourself. I'm not super mechanically inclined but it's a skill I've started cultivating since I developed an interest in this field.

  • @A1DJPaul
    @A1DJPaul 5 років тому +3

    That Small Van is Very Practical. More Stealthy for Town & city Camping.
    I like the Bed.

  • @andrewconway7730
    @andrewconway7730 5 років тому +35

    Could you do a video detailing the cost of your van with everything included?

  • @christysittig1200
    @christysittig1200 5 років тому +1

    Sold our NV200 and bought big Ram Promaster with extended warranty... love the room.. now we both can stretch out and love the inside potty...

  • @robertbidochon7949
    @robertbidochon7949 5 років тому +2

    Happiness is elevating our mind, by living and meeting good or bad souls. Materials are only tools for us to live this life.

    • @itsantiagois
      @itsantiagois 5 років тому

      Agree and I'll add...We are what we see, not what we do.

  • @trump9028
    @trump9028 4 роки тому +2

    NV200 has been a great van for me! Only complaint I have, is the stock rims and tires. Expect to throw away the stock tires in 25,000 miles or less. I bumped up tire size a notch and it not only improved the look of my van, I'm getting much more mileage out of them!

  • @lynnej.9357
    @lynnej.9357 5 років тому +9

    I really like what you've done. The small van is economical and the pop top gives you good flexibility. Also the murphy bed allows more space inside. I think it's great.

  • @robertsegura6451
    @robertsegura6451 5 років тому +1

    I applaud your decision to go small. Less is more, the more we have, the more we want to fill it with more stuff.

  • @markmagielse6364
    @markmagielse6364 5 років тому +2

    Nate, you have "nailed it" ;
    - that Van is awesome, so well thought out and practical ;
    - I'm not sure if this is universal, but I hear that with bigger RVs you can only park on concrete slabs on campsites (while stealth camping is out). That would ruin the experience for me 😱
    - the pressure cooker is fantastic and radiation free while your electrical supply is totally on point
    - 26 us miles per gallon = 11,054 kilometres per litre is what my Mercedes Vito does, which I purchased because of its fuel efficiency.
    - your videos are well composed and edited
    All in all 85% 😂, leaving a bit open for more slick content. Time to travel and explore!!

  • @nomadicexperience9742
    @nomadicexperience9742 5 років тому +3

    The NV is one of the best options out there. No doubt. Im personally considering the FJ Cruiser and that's slightly smaller than the element. Fully customizable interior in a commercial van is very enticing.

  • @MrQbenDanny
    @MrQbenDanny 5 років тому

    BRAVO!!!
    Nate,
    I worked in a major advertising company which I won't mention for many years, I had a top vehicle account, and YOU are the spokesman I always searched for and never found. There were castings in Hollywood and New York City, we never found a "NATE".!!!

  • @mixflip
    @mixflip 5 років тому +17

    Great video. Pop tops are so functional. Worth every penny.

    • @Gamebit450
      @Gamebit450 4 роки тому +2

      not at that price lol that is half of what the van cost. No way that top is worth that imo.

    • @Fitforacting
      @Fitforacting 3 роки тому +2

      @@Gamebit450 depends on how much you use it

    • @donkeyballs3307
      @donkeyballs3307 3 роки тому +1

      Pop top is mostly useless in northern Canada 🇨🇦,, ud b lucky if u used it 2 months per year & u would freeze to death , because of it , in the winter, here ,

    • @Asator66
      @Asator66 3 роки тому +1

      I don't see the point. If it's cold you're not going to want to open it, but if it's good weather you're going to want to be outside. Standing in your van is hardly a perk when you can only take 2 steps down its length, when you can literally just step outside?

    • @mixflip
      @mixflip 3 роки тому

      @@Asator66 not all...but some people like to change clothes standing up. Sometimes standing feels good on the joints and bones too if you have older bones or previous injuries from your youth.

  • @MikeAndNary
    @MikeAndNary 5 років тому +12

    At 0:45 "that's the ocean"
    I would have never figured that out had you not said something.

  • @Steelers88Maxima
    @Steelers88Maxima 5 років тому +1

    The fact that you included a clip from Scotty Kilmer in this video tells me you produce and appreciate quality content.

  • @kaylalevesque186
    @kaylalevesque186 2 роки тому

    I think he is so adorable!!! His personality shines thru and he seems so kind and humble❤️

  • @sean8051
    @sean8051 5 років тому +8

    "I very rarely want to eat what I make" Dude, me too! I thought I was the only one. Thanks for the nice edits. 👌

    • @lorimav
      @lorimav 5 років тому +1

      I only want to eat what I cook. The problem is, I hate to cook.

  • @steveb1972
    @steveb1972 4 роки тому +1

    The NV200 is a popular choice in the UK for a micro camper. There are plenty of YT vids of conversions. If well laid out with a pop-top roof with bed shelf you can make it a 4 berth with full kitchenette.

  • @artdogg50
    @artdogg50 5 років тому

    I personally think you're doing it the best way. You seem to travel and move around a little more than most, so the convenience to get around, maneuver through smaller areas, and park where little parking is available, simply comes in handy.

  • @j.f.l.7649
    @j.f.l.7649 5 років тому +3

    Hey Brother, use the saute mode on the instant pot to heat things up because the pressure mode you have to add liquid for it to build up pressure and it will take longer.

  • @tildibu9087
    @tildibu9087 3 роки тому +2

    I love minimalist living. Love your van and amazing how you got such a big bed in there

  • @24ZEN
    @24ZEN 5 років тому +14

    Beautiful cinematography.

  • @shawneeb3771
    @shawneeb3771 5 років тому +1

    I totally agree. Save gas, you have what you need, easy parking. I am now thinking about this van as a real possibility for me. Thanks for all the information. Great Video.

  • @tubeMonger
    @tubeMonger 4 роки тому

    I haven't had any problems with either Nissans or Renaults, but I always take care of my cars. All cars need regular maintenance.

  • @CrystalVanner
    @CrystalVanner 5 років тому +2

    my 98 e150 gets 18 to 21 mpg. I'm gonna have to go back to a minivan, for personal reasons. I'm actually gonna be delivering my E150 to his new adVANture home in the morning.

  • @Erikjoelalexander
    @Erikjoelalexander 4 роки тому

    People should go for what they want no matter the price rather than compromise. Good on you!

  • @mattthewanderer5029
    @mattthewanderer5029 5 років тому +3

    That's mental, I've got a 313 lwb sprinter that done 252,000 miles and it a heavy build out and I still get between 32 and 36 mpg on a long run and 28 around town.

    • @gregoryclarke328
      @gregoryclarke328 5 років тому +7

      With all due respect, the only way your Sprinter is getting even close to 30mpg is if you’re filling the tank with bullshit.

  • @merson812
    @merson812 5 років тому

    People like you, who are few and far between, are so motivational.

  • @clovelly1946
    @clovelly1946 3 роки тому

    I like the smaller Van's,I still cant understand not having bunk beds,such space SAVERS.but yours in great.

  • @divinelyled8269
    @divinelyled8269 5 років тому +4

    I just bought mine ! 2019 nv200 , can't wait to convert it ...not sure if I'm going with the pop top but it does look awesome 😎

  • @stevewoods7299
    @stevewoods7299 5 років тому +1

    At the end that was so honest! It was refreshing and nice to see. About the possible lack of quality of your rig. I think I want an express in 9 years when I retire. But been thinking a lot about getting a Honda or Toyota mini van a few years old to do some weekend and week long camping in. And possibly as a daily driver too.

  • @zanesutherland406
    @zanesutherland406 5 років тому +7

    Beautiful videography. And I love Scotty Kilmer, watch him everyday 👍🏼😄

  • @the_ray_garza
    @the_ray_garza 4 роки тому

    NV200 is our company's work horse. I drive one every day as a technician I drive at least 80- 100 miles a day sometimes more. I love mine. Wish the fuel capacity was larger. Great van. It won me over.

  • @betsyc5123
    @betsyc5123 5 років тому +8

    Keep doing what you’re doing. Life seems good. Enjoy your freedom.

  • @Catman1798
    @Catman1798 5 років тому +3

    I’m 5’9 and I went to see a ram promaster short wheelbase 114 inch I believe. Not a high top and guess what I was able to stand up lol. I couldn’t believe it either!! I was shocked but the van was still too big for my taste. I figured since it was the shortest wheelbase it might feel smaller. It didn’t. I would go with the ram promaster city instead. But wow I’m still shocked I was able to stand up. No need for high top with ram promasters. That’s something these people on UA-cam reviews never said about them! Be a little more detailed when you review these vans folks. I hate going to dealers to just “look” they won’t leave you alone. I depend on UA-cam reviews mostly.

    • @georgefenrich4119
      @georgefenrich4119 5 років тому

      LUCKY YOU... I'm 6'0" and I want the put in a lot of Insulation for the winter (and summer) heat loss.
      SO, I have to go for the HIGH Top.

  • @slimyfeet8696
    @slimyfeet8696 4 роки тому +2

    I feel like the ford might be the most reliable out of the 3 choices. Also in my personal opinion its the best looking.

  • @lorriesarafin9457
    @lorriesarafin9457 4 роки тому

    I always get better gas mileage in my NV-200 with Chevron gas - and every once in a while I will half fill the tank with high octane...that also helps to increase mileage a little. I will be starting my own build later this year...

  • @TheDawnofVanlife
    @TheDawnofVanlife 5 років тому

    I think you made an awesome choice. Easy City parking is the best and truly gives you the most freedom to go anywhere. I want a poptop on my next van and like you, if I make that investment I want it on the newest van possible.

  • @robincrook5630
    @robincrook5630 5 років тому +1

    Heck, I thought it was cool you were living in a Honda Element for awhile. My husband and I are converting our 2003 Honda CRV into a sort of "micro-camper" van. I bought it new and it has almost 250K miles on it...but I have always sought out the best mechanics whenever we had to move to a new area. It is in great shape. Someday we hope to purchase something a bit bigger and we will consider the Nissan NV plus pop top, thanks to your video.

  • @GiggleFishy
    @GiggleFishy 5 років тому +8

    Your filming and editing skills are top-notch.

  • @cboyle707
    @cboyle707 5 років тому

    Yeh. I'm convinced... a pop top is great! They ought to market the NV with the pop top. I think it's so smart for stealth! Excellent. Tell those guys at the pop top company to market hard. They offer a great solution for urban campers, especially.

  • @donnamarieb333
    @donnamarieb333 5 років тому +3

    It doesn't get more stealthy than being tiny. Wish I had the pop top on mine but the gas mileage makes the nv200 absolutely perfect since I'm only 4'11" not too limiting anyway lol

  • @JackieL7474
    @JackieL7474 5 років тому +1

    You made the right decision with your new home. My 05 Element is a gas hog but I wish sometime to convert it into my home. I love your beautiful videos a lot! I want to be a minimalist but don't know how to accomplish that yet. I look forward to each video you make!

  • @jungness
    @jungness 5 років тому

    Glad you decided to head back to the coast. Take that all the way down south and check out the beauty that make up California's coast. And surf all the breaks, which was why I got interested in vanlife to begin with all those years ago. Don't miss Big Sur, Morro Bay and Rincon.

  • @b4804514
    @b4804514 5 років тому +1

    Nate No man you need a 40 foot 5th wheel with a fireplace washer dryer and room to dance. And at 8mpg in a Dodge Cummings diesel to tow it 1 trip a year would blow the budget. What are people thinking with those massive trailers and "camping"??? Love the Pottery Barn fine linens. you do have proprieties

    • @TheDawnofVanlife
      @TheDawnofVanlife 5 років тому

      They are good for park and stay adventures. Where you get a boondocking spot and "camp" for a bit, not really Nate's lifestyle.

  • @michaelfedrizzi2544
    @michaelfedrizzi2544 5 років тому +3

    I received my sticker today, I will be putting it on my vehicle tomorrow. Thank you Nate

  • @ChrisFactor
    @ChrisFactor 2 роки тому

    Completely agree. You Sir, are my spirit human! Minimal Life!

  • @GEAUXFRUGAL
    @GEAUXFRUGAL 5 років тому

    If you used a Prius V put a pop up roof you would have an on demand generator, and would enjoy 30 to 40 mpg not even trying. Plus you would have $10K more in your bank.

  • @KathyGraff
    @KathyGraff 5 років тому

    Seriously consider using pot-in-pot with a short manual or steam setting and natural release for heating leftovers so they don’t stick.
    If you do rice pot-in-pot you can remove and cover the inner pot to keep it warm then just wipe dry the main pot to sauté your veggies and sauce. The multigrain setting is great for brown rice. Another pot-in-pot trick is to put a small trivet or wire rack over the bowl to cook hard boiled eggs.

  • @212days
    @212days 5 років тому

    It's a small world. I just randomly clicked on this video that was in the sidebar and to my surprise the spot where you are walking with the surfboard at the beginning of the video is about 4 blocks from my house.

  • @blessedbeyond2118
    @blessedbeyond2118 5 років тому

    You look healthy and happy SO i would say you made the right choice for your inner peace and that is all that matters...You have a lot invested in that so you have to love it...I love love love the murphy bed
    thanks for sharing you are well spoken clear and very smart...ty again

  • @BeNiceYall
    @BeNiceYall 4 роки тому

    ReconCampers and GTRV.com both do NV200 camper conversions for around $9 to $25 thousand after you buy the van. Turn around time is 4 weeks to 2 months depending on demand.

  • @simplyrise5217
    @simplyrise5217 4 роки тому

    As long as is works for you. It doesn't matter what's your choice. That includes price too👍

  • @awdsvx
    @awdsvx 5 років тому +26

    If you are concerned about aerodynamics & gas mileage, why don’t you store your surf 🏄 board inside of your Nissan on long trips.

    • @CGreciful
      @CGreciful 5 років тому +1

      Yeah I was thinking the same. All that neck and back pain. I go EVERYWHERE in my promaster and get 19mph. Wonderful.

  • @CarrieJo5916
    @CarrieJo5916 5 років тому +10

    Beautiful Photography! Good info on your van choice too.

  • @Fab-wd4qq
    @Fab-wd4qq 5 років тому +3

    I love how you make great content and you seem like a nice straight forward honest guy. Safe travels buddy

  • @kimhorton6109
    @kimhorton6109 5 років тому

    I couldn’t do it. I have to think I’d get a GMC van of the smallest variety. I had a 12 passenger for years, put 180k on the poor thing and the worst thing that happened was a rear end. Brakes held up for 90k, ac was always good, seats were comfy and my kids loved it.

  • @weekendlovinggypsy1737
    @weekendlovinggypsy1737 5 років тому

    I had a frontier crew cab 2000 for 14 years and almost 200k miles until it was totaled and it still ran. it was an awesome truck. I vampires in it all year round. ...used it to go skiing in the winter etc.....only got stick once in snow at work and only beet of the allure it was parked in. I have driven in wet clay sliding while only doing idle driving and never got stuck. ..even thought at one point I would but got out. oh ya it was only a 4 x 2 and I've taken it up tin cup pass over huge rocks. Nissan rocks!!!!!

  • @hero2006
    @hero2006 5 років тому

    A small van in my opinion is perfect for you. I plan on scaling down from a 17' travel trailer to something of this size in the near future. More simplistic. Safe travels.

  • @ericwilliams626
    @ericwilliams626 2 роки тому

    I was going to get the transit connect, then decided on the Transit. Upgrading never creates a problem down the line. Accepting less usually does.

  • @madeinmichigan6773
    @madeinmichigan6773 5 років тому

    I'm glad your choose for you but for me...life is only lived once and to not be able to be totally comfortable just for a few extra miles of gas is not good enough for me. But that's why were all unique. I chose s class c because when I'm parked I want to be as comfortable as possible. I wish you well and not back and neck issues in 20yrs. 😊

  • @KabobHope
    @KabobHope 5 років тому

    There just isn't a comparable ready to roll version of your poptop campervan in the US -- yet. When there is (the demand is definitely there) I'm sure it will be priced more expensively than your build. You've done a great job of building out exactly what you want. Props, dude.

  • @PippiD
    @PippiD 5 років тому

    Compared to the Element, your new van is huge. I agree with all your reasons for the size van you got. You do a great job with your space. I like the new configuration that you did. Very cool.

  • @cherbear1996
    @cherbear1996 4 роки тому

    Downsizing from an e150 hitop to a minivan..mainly bc my van died, but also gas mileage n stealthness factor. I looked at the small older transits n I like them..if I found one for the right price, I'd consider it seriously..nice choice Nate👍✌❤😊

  • @Cici-oi4wh
    @Cici-oi4wh 5 років тому +1

    I think we don't need to park in the city , we can park somewhere at the end of the train line and use metro to go around the city . I still want the big van.

  • @plutoplatters
    @plutoplatters 5 років тому +2

    Because you don't want the 40 footer with the slide out rooms that will cause problems for sure and you can go ANYWHERE with what you've chose.

  • @dealsfromvirginia1773
    @dealsfromvirginia1773 5 років тому

    I Have A 2014 Transit Connect and love it. I don't live in it but have traveled in it. The head room is lacking and when you said the cost of the pop top, I'd personally just buy a promaster or high top transit. But if it works for you, great!

  • @GlennWilder
    @GlennWilder 4 роки тому

    Just bought a 2020 NV200. Nissan's 100K mile warranty was a huge part of my decision vs. Dodge and Ford. Just gonna change out the CVT fluid more often. Also, it drives so nice!

  • @MYPSYAI
    @MYPSYAI 2 роки тому

    I have a Chevy Astro, kinda for all the same reasons. I was able to get one very cheap with under 90k miles. Even though I only get 20-24 mpg, that's still pretty good for a camper van.

  • @stephenolaughlin6595
    @stephenolaughlin6595 5 років тому +1

    My original plans were for a smaller van like yours due to mpg. After watching lots of vids I see miles are put on slowly in most circumstances. So I’m going bigger as due to my age & mobility issues. Your nv is set up incredibly though.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому

      Compact cargo vans aren't for everbody. Good luck.

  • @dee5331
    @dee5331 2 роки тому

    Your parents must be proud of you! Very informative and helpful thks for sharing

  • @sylviajones4907
    @sylviajones4907 5 років тому +12

    You chose rightly.
    Good video. Beautiful surfing footage. Music spot- on!

  • @mychannelnotyours
    @mychannelnotyours 3 роки тому

    Nice! I am buying a small van.I just started travel nursing. And this is so perfect.

  • @justgregnow
    @justgregnow 5 років тому +6

    I went with a pro master city for these reasons. Way Higher payload capacity, bigger engine with basically the same MPG, more cargo space, and can actually tow 2000lbs if I decide I need to.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому +1

      True, but the roof is slightly lower and the seats are really low (like a go-cart)...and it's a FIAT.

    • @justgregnow
      @justgregnow 5 років тому

      @@taradead lol and it's a FIAT 🤣 built in Turkey but the engine is built in the great USA 👍 which is why I gave the PMC a pass for being a FIAT. I have a roof rack with it being lower makes it easier to get things up there.

    • @taradead
      @taradead 5 років тому

      @@justgregnow Cool...but still sits like a go-cart.

    • @justgregnow
      @justgregnow 5 років тому

      @@taradead that might be an aspect I like about it.

    • @patrickio8084
      @patrickio8084 5 років тому

      How many miles have you driven it so far and have you had any maintenance or repair issues?

  • @inmyopinion651
    @inmyopinion651 4 роки тому

    Gas mileage is great reason. Makes it easy to go down South or out West. You did great job. Has anybody in these cities ever messed with your solar panels or anything like that? I love my insta pot to. lol