For brushing your teeth, how about just using a small plastic bottle to spit into. After you're finished, just simply put a small amount of water in the bottle, swish it around, toss the water out, put the lid back on, and you're ready for the next brushing. That way you don't have to clean yuk out your "sink". 😁You didn't mention how you clean up after eating. How about a spray bottle with either 50/50 vinegar and water, or 50/50 alcohol and water. Spray on dishes, wipe clean, cleaning and sanitizing at the same time, and saving a lot of water and mess! LOVE your simple, practical build, AND your potty! Looks like you have everything you need without spending months and months to build and a lot of money just to make a small, but practical home for yourself! 👌💝
It's amazing what people can do with whatever space they have to work with in a converted vehicle be it a car, minivan, full size van or larger. It's never quite big enough and yet with some ingenuity, hard work and a little compromise here and there, it can be made to work and be more than up to the task. I've never done anything quite like this but I have backpacked, bikepacked and camped out of my car on extended trips, and there's something magical about living on the road with mostly just the essentials and little more. It's amazing how little one really needs to not just live but live well, and makes you appreciate that.
Well said. I travel in a small sedan quite comfortably with everything I need; I can sleep in the passenger seat or set up a small tent. I love meeting and talking with other travelers on their adventures, many in even smaller spaces such as by motorcycle, a couple who traveled in a mini-cooper with only backpacking gear, a 78-year-old French woman bicycling from California to Colorado, PCT hikers from England and Norway. Many years ago, my husband and I spent a summer traveling the U.S. in a small Toyota Corona Mark II with our camping gear. Those of some of my best memories.
I bought my Toyota Sienna new in 2006, it’s going still at 280 k miles. All maintenance was done on time and always put premium gas. It may be the best car ever made!
I have 260,000 miles on my 2004 sienna, runs like the day I bought it 11 years ago with 58k on the odo. I have only used regular gas and did oil changes every 7500 mobil 1. Expect to get another 100k out of it
Awesome !! I have a 2005 Toyota.. I Stole 2 ideas from you.. Burlap around Bed.. And I used your plans to build my storage in my 3rd row.. But I use my Hotel Sienna for Bike Adventures.. Keep up the great work.. On to the next Adventure !!
That’s so cool I was able to help!! I wish I would’ve remembered to say in this video though, the burlap does start to come apart from use over time. Maybe some hot glue or something would help that
@@MUSIC-JoyceHansonAnderson-d4m yes.. but mostly before & after.. UA-cam Shorts It’s a no build.. I’m not full time.. use it for bike adventures.. long weekends 🚐🚴♂️😎
Better than upholstery screws, I prefer T pins (fabric store). They slide in flat against the headliner, you can tuck fairy lights around the T head. Easy to pull out, but not easy to catch on anything and pull out accidentally. For tooth brushing, I keep a squirt water bottle, squirt my mouth and the brush, spit in a cup, clean the cup with the squirt bottle and also a squirt from a vinegar bottle. Also use the H2O bottle for handwashing, both bottles for dishwashing. Takes very little water for that. I keep behind-the-seat blackout curtains permanently on a bungee cord, at night hook the bungee on the car’s overhead handles. Use T pins to close up gaps if I want complete privacy.
I use one of those umbrella type shades on the inside of my windshield. They nave become so common that I figure most people don’t think twice about them.
I love your build and you gave me lots of ideas. I love the way you hide your stuff and I'm definitely going to use that one. Hopefully, I will run into you "down the road"!
I have a Toyota Sienna and I'm thrilled to learn from your video how I might convert it for camping. I shall measure the back and begin trying out your ideas tomorrow. Hugs! And lots of thanks for making this video! I didn't think the back was big enough to do all this. Wow!
We don't have that car in Norway (at least never seen one) so I have done something similar in a tiny Ford focus station wagon. But this could definitely work as a more permanent solution for me too. Very nice setup, have fun on your travels.
Thanks for the van tour - hope your travels are worth all the effort and cash investments. Keep that bear spray handy - and not just for bears(you know what I mean). "The mountains are calling and I must go."(John Muir). Be well, stay safe. 🥾
I starting following you on AT and have enjoyed watching some your older videos since you finished the AT as well as your newer ones. Happy you and Smokes are enjoying each other. As you are so independent I wondered if it would last but you seem very well suited and happy. Looking forward to your road trip. Drive safely.
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces Thank you. You are beautiful and your build is fun to see. I am curious, what do you do for toilet and shower? I like your battery setup and fridge. I will watch this video again. I have a 2005 Subaru Forester (donor 2.0 turbo engine from Japan), considering sleeping in it :) Thank you! -Rand E
well that was a very enjoyable 17 minutes....im currently just starting my knowledge about getting something to retire in someday and see the united states,im 66 and a male,thank you for your information,i hope things continue to be good,Jay
Really amazing van tour! Hello from Europe. I have a 2002 Toyota Estima minivan and import from Japan. I’m in the process of building it out on a very very small budget. You have given me loads of ideas 🎉 thank you! I’m eager to see your new travels out west! I like the mini kitchen/ storage looks 👍 great 😊. The idea of a built up floor was good too. Keep on vaning and good luck! 🤞
Not having A/C has been the biggest scare for me, but you seem to be doing well! You said you go where it's fair-weathered? Like snowbirding? I might have to do this. It could still be a goal to get A/C, but I've been thinking I might put that decision off for after I have actual experience of what I value in my preferred van lifestyle. Seeing you do just fine helps lots! I'm moving into an apartment for a lease term to save money and buy time to deliberate on a vehicle, but in a year or so, all goes well, I'm excited to get started, myself! Best of wishes on your upcoming adventure! 🎉
Buy a later model sienna hybrid. Run the a/c while you sleep at night and it will only use about a gallon of gas after running all night. The hybrid battery powers the a/c and the gas engine turns on automatically every 15 minutes or so to recharge the battery. Sleep at whatever temperature you set the climate control at.
What a wonderful young lady you are. Just a joy watching this. I know it’s about the van but I would like to hear about how secure u felt as a woman camping alone, especially in urban settings. I imagine you took extra precautions and chose your campsites carefully.
I’ll copy and paste the link for a video I made a while back that has a part about all the safety things I could think of. I use the app ioverlander to find campsites and read every review to make sure no one has had a problem at whatever place I’m going m.ua-cam.com/video/r5oSTpKNvhE/v-deo.html
Great video . Good for you . I’m married now but we are thinking about moving into an RV a class C . I lived in a jeep as a weekend warrior type deal when I was younger and loved being creative and finding ways to adapt and improvise. It’s fun. Great job going 2 years . Congratulations on the boyfriend .
Very nice, great job without breaking the bank. Be very proud of yourself! . I’m prob the 10,000th person saying I want to do the same. Am retiring in a couple of years and though I don’t want to go full time, I want to travel, camp, backpack across the US in something doable and Not conspicuous.
I did the same thing with night mode when I bought a 2016 ford transit. Put blackout curtains around the windows and black out curtains separating the front and back
Very interesting, well presented video. I like how much thought you out into planning the van build - wow! Be fun to see your trip out west. Stay safe!
This was great and a good reference for someone who may want to try this with their van. Nicely done on how you utilized the space you have etc. I can't wait for your road trips, it should be a lot of fun in the van.. Thank you for sharing.
In a year or two when your AGM battery starts to weaken, and you replace it with an LFP battery, I expect that the price of LFPs will have declined so much that you can consider that you got to use your AGM for free. :) Just tell your solar charge controller that it's connected to an LFP now, since the charging profile is different. Nice van arrangement, thanks for the ideas!
I rented one of these to go to Grand Canyon from Sonoma County California.....I loved it!! Thanks for reminding me. Maybe an RV is just too expensive....❤❤
Great video! I just came back from my first road trip in my 2017, spent 2 nights on the road from PA to AZ, 3 weeks later came back, also 2 nights. I learned so much and have a new list of ideas that will work for me. Looking forward to your next video!
Spectacularly neat and pleasing to the eye. We males adopt the "mountain of crap" van storage philosophy. Toss all your possessions into a giant mountain that reaches the ceiling of your vehicle. If you ever slam on the brakes, your mountain of crap will slide forward and bury you, and future civilizations will find your skeleton 😆
For potty, use a steel coffee can, a rubber hose for a seat cut down the center and wrapped around the can. Set inside two 4 gallon trash bags and a kayak pee bottle with a female attachment, the most sanitary and compact potty tool.
Wow a few years after Road-trip Brew-sa, and I still love your van build, all the storage space you utilize!! I'm excited for another road trip with you Maddie! Thanks for sharing with us 🎉🎉😊😊🌞🌄
Hi Ranger. Spreadsheet and I are slowly converting our 2021 Sienna. It's fun to see your ideas (although we're making it fit both of us). You're giving us additional inspiration. Also, it's fun to see Smoke Master again. Tell him we said hi! ~Smoke
: ) THANKS MUCH for sharing ! ! SO many great ideas : ) I bought a 2012 last year, and love the Sienna, only part timing at best to stay close to family... ALL the BEST and safe travels ! ! Cheers from Left Coast : )
I have been looking for a Toyota Sienna....I am not certain on when I will pull the trigger (initially). And, I am a bit nervous on taking the initial step of freedom (I am guessing I am a worry wart - lol). BUT, I am headed out in Feb to Mar for Padre Island Texas to expand my horizons. I have a 2021 Tacoma that I purchased new ... I added a kodiak canvas bed tent, etc etc. (I have basically everything one needs for exploring) I quickly realized the need for being stealth (and taking it down in the rain - argh) while spending a few days in the Keys last year. I did find a hotel parking lot that didn't have a gate or security. (This worked well). Sleeping in the Tacoma drivers seat not the most comfortable on an incline. Sooooo.....You (Thank you) reinforced what I need to do...just get the Sienna. I am going to do it and then in a couple years (to ensure I can do this) purchase a Class B. Please continue to post, you make it very easy to follow. Again, thanks so much. C
Good! I’m glad this was helpful!! I didn’t want to commit to a Sienna for a little bit too because do I really want to drive a minivan around? But it’s been so worth it. I really think it’s the most space for the best gas milage. I post a new video every Wednesday evening, but I don’t have any van-related ones planned any time soon, just outdoor-adventure-related. I do have a playlist called minivan life: everything I know that I hope would be helpful to you!!
You did a great job with this Maddie! I can’t wait for your adventures out west this summer! Enjoyed you on the Kyle Hates hiking podcast at trail days recently too! ❤
I enjoyed you vid so I’m going to subscribe to enjoy the rest of your journey thanks for sharing it with us 😊 I hope to be out there as well as soon as I save enough money to buy a van
Your set up is my NUMBER ONE favorite all around. I looked for a video in your channel about more details regarding your electric set up but couldn't find it. Would you mind posting a video giving advice and sharing resources about it? That's the one thing that concerns me a bit and I am still trying to wrap my brain around the electrical needs and options to consider. I've watched hundreds of videos to come up with what I want to do with my minivan. Many of them feel overwhelming with items all over. Your set up really matches my ideal living space. I love the bed and the counter along the side. I want to be able to cook and do what I may need to do without having to step outside in case if it's raining. I also love the tapestry on the ceiling. Your delivery is clear and very useful. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much! I'm really glad you enjoy it! Here's the video explaining my electrical set up: ua-cam.com/video/m5GAR4UCzCI/v-deo.htmlsi=NAbi_C33F6Slg74G If you go to my channel, scroll down a ways to the playlist "Minivan Life: Everything I Know", that's where all my informational videos (and some vlogs!) are :)
Great tour and a very practical and good looking van conversion. Also very tidy and organized. Removing the plank flooring and the other side lifts up for more storage...brilliant idea. New sub here.
I thought with Siemna Hybrid's, that the AC comes on automatically during the night. I started watching Nikki Delventhal's channel when she drove a Prius, and that's what her hybrid did.
Very nice story. I've had 5 vans. 2 VWs in Europe. Aerostar in the 90s (fun/quick), Econoline (roomy/slowish), and now my 98 Astro, the best.... but engine went byebye. So, I need another camper with stealth. PriusV or Sienna. Prius too minimal. Probably a Sienna. I've always opted for max open space. A Tri-fold mattress works fine. No cabinets. Attached metal grids over the window--4" grids used by retailers.. Handy to bungie string bags with supplies--clothing, camera gear, etc...And a Thule cargo box. So, the space is completely--open and good for artwork efforts...watercolor. and flexible. Tinted windows & black curtains. I can urban park easily. I store a tent in the Cargo box. I use it to indicate a space is occupied at the parks. A tent and a couple of chairs does the job....If the space looks unoccupied during the days, people can nab the space. ...they don't notice the little receipt stuck on a post...It can get edgy. Toilet care is pretty easy...and a bit secret. I can wash in a bowl of water before bed....Minimal is not difficult. I've never had a complicated electric system...but will. So now it's buy a PriusV for gas savings.....or a Sienna for comfort.....Prius V would be fine on a road trip in Mexico where hotels would often be used....The Sienna is the option for comfortable N. American touring. CONFLICTED BIG TIME!??!
As a sort of kind of expert on Toyota all-wheel drive, it has over 100,000 MI change the oil in your front and rear differentials and transfer case. The weakest point on the all-wheel drive is going to be the rear differential. Also, change your antifreeze immediately. The antifreeze that Toyota uses is very acidic. Since you don't know when the last time it was changed it needs to be changed within 2 years because it will start to eat your radiator and your hoses.
I had a white, plastic folding table for most of my time living in my van! It wasn't in this video because it's currently serving as my desk in my apartment!
How do you attach your black out curtains to the windows? Fyi from 8yr van guy, get 3 different squirter bottles (for easy id) for water, vinegar + water, and bronners soap +water. You can brush teeth w water squirts over trash can. Use cheap resturant napkins available a smart n final stores. -Matt
I don’t have a black out curtains for my windows, they’re window covers from weather tech that are just held in place by being the exact size as the window. If you mean the big black out curtain I use to block off the front seats, I thought I showed every part of that in the video, can you be more specific about what you want me to explain? As far as the spray bottle system, that sounds great! Maybe I’ll look into that when I finish my bottle of camp suds I usually use the clean dishes
This is one of my favorite minivan camper builds, practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Thanks so much!
For brushing your teeth, how about just using a small plastic bottle to spit into. After you're finished, just simply put a small amount of water in the bottle, swish it around, toss the water out, put the lid back on, and you're ready for the next brushing. That way you don't have to clean yuk out your "sink". 😁You didn't mention how you clean up after eating. How about a spray bottle with either 50/50 vinegar and water, or 50/50 alcohol and water. Spray on dishes, wipe clean, cleaning and sanitizing at the same time, and saving a lot of water and mess! LOVE your simple, practical build, AND your potty! Looks like you have everything you need without spending months and months to build and a lot of money just to make a small, but practical home for yourself! 👌💝
It's amazing what people can do with whatever space they have to work with in a converted vehicle be it a car, minivan, full size van or larger. It's never quite big enough and yet with some ingenuity, hard work and a little compromise here and there, it can be made to work and be more than up to the task. I've never done anything quite like this but I have backpacked, bikepacked and camped out of my car on extended trips, and there's something magical about living on the road with mostly just the essentials and little more. It's amazing how little one really needs to not just live but live well, and makes you appreciate that.
Thank you! And yeah, that’s very true!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces❤
Well said. I travel in a small sedan quite comfortably with everything I need; I can sleep in the passenger seat or set up a small tent. I love meeting and talking with other travelers on their adventures, many in even smaller spaces such as by motorcycle, a couple who traveled in a mini-cooper with only backpacking gear, a 78-year-old French woman bicycling from California to Colorado, PCT hikers from England and Norway. Many years ago, my husband and I spent a summer traveling the U.S. in a small Toyota Corona Mark II with our camping gear. Those of some of my best memories.
Yes, well put
I bought my Toyota Sienna new in 2006, it’s going still at 280 k miles. All maintenance was done on time and always put premium gas. It may be the best car ever made!
Nice!!
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Fabian Maus lech les Liebe Grüße Mann finden linge Ling Blume Single ales ling dumme Single ales Tage
I have 260,000 miles on my 2004 sienna, runs like the day I bought it 11 years ago with 58k on the odo. I have only used regular gas and did oil changes every 7500 mobil 1. Expect to get another 100k out of it
Awesome !! I have a 2005 Toyota.. I Stole 2 ideas from you.. Burlap around Bed.. And I used your plans to build my storage in my 3rd row.. But I use my Hotel Sienna for Bike Adventures.. Keep up the great work.. On to the next Adventure !!
That’s so cool I was able to help!! I wish I would’ve remembered to say in this video though, the burlap does start to come apart from use over time. Maybe some hot glue or something would help that
Do you have videos of your Sienna conversion? I have a 2,004 Sienna I want to convert into a camper.
@@MUSIC-JoyceHansonAnderson-d4m yes.. but mostly before & after.. UA-cam Shorts It’s a no build.. I’m not full time.. use it for bike adventures.. long weekends 🚐🚴♂️😎
@@MUSIC-JoyceHansonAnderson-d4m I did remove off my rear seats to make storage..
@@MUSIC-JoyceHansonAnderson-d4m
I agree 💯. Three years in awd 04 sienna. I love her. Her name is mini and never gets stuck
Better than upholstery screws, I prefer T pins (fabric store). They slide in flat against the headliner, you can tuck fairy lights around the T head. Easy to pull out, but not easy to catch on anything and pull out accidentally.
For tooth brushing, I keep a squirt water bottle, squirt my mouth and the brush, spit in a cup, clean the cup with the squirt bottle and also a squirt from a vinegar bottle. Also use the H2O bottle for handwashing, both bottles for dishwashing. Takes very little water for that.
I keep behind-the-seat blackout curtains permanently on a bungee cord, at night hook the bungee on the car’s overhead handles. Use T pins to close up gaps if I want complete privacy.
I use one of those umbrella type shades on the inside of my windshield. They nave become so common that I figure most people don’t think twice about them.
Me too. Thought the same thing.
I love your build and you gave me lots of ideas. I love the way you hide your stuff and I'm definitely going to use that one. Hopefully, I will run into you "down the road"!
Awesome video! Excellent detail and description of your build. Looking forward to your summer adventures!
Thanks, Mario! Every van tour I make, I always think of new stuff to talk about!
I have a Toyota Sienna and I'm thrilled to learn from your video how I might convert it for camping. I shall measure the back and begin trying out your ideas tomorrow. Hugs! And lots of thanks for making this video! I didn't think the back was big enough to do all this. Wow!
Oh great! I'm so glad it was helpful! Best of luck with your build!
I will have to put this on my list, I'm a honda girl but "might" make an exception. 😊 so much space it seems.
We don't have that car in Norway (at least never seen one) so I have done something similar in a tiny Ford focus station wagon. But this could definitely work as a more permanent solution for me too.
Very nice setup, have fun on your travels.
Cool! Glad I could help a little!
I followed you on the AT last summer. Glad to catch up!
You’ve really got your van perfect. I cannot wait to see your upcoming videos. Anxiously awaiting.
Thanks so much!
awesome , light bulbs are going off in my head
Awesome! That’s what a love to hear!
Thanks for the van tour - hope your travels are worth all the effort and cash investments. Keep that bear spray handy - and not just for bears(you know what I mean). "The mountains are calling and I must go."(John Muir). Be well, stay safe. 🥾
Oh yeah I know what you mean! And thank you, I will!
I starting following you on AT and have enjoyed watching some your older videos since you finished the AT as well as your newer ones. Happy you and Smokes are enjoying each other. As you are so independent I wondered if it would last but you seem very well suited and happy. Looking forward to your road trip. Drive safely.
Aww thank you so much! You’re so sweet! ☺️
Looking forward to your upcoming adventures! Love your Sienna Camper Conversion! 👍😊
Thanks so much!
@@BeerinBeautifulPlaces Thank you. You are beautiful and your build is fun to see. I am curious, what do you do for toilet and shower? I like your battery setup and fridge. I will watch this video again. I have a 2005 Subaru Forester (donor 2.0 turbo engine from Japan), considering sleeping in it :) Thank you! -Rand E
i really like the hidden storage in the floor
well that was a very enjoyable 17 minutes....im currently just starting my knowledge about getting something to retire in someday and see the united states,im 66 and a male,thank you for your information,i hope things continue to be good,Jay
Okay now THAT'S pretty cool!!! I've always been interested in van travel when retired. I can't wait to see your trip.
Thank you! Can’t wait to have you along for the ride!
Really amazing van tour! Hello from Europe. I have a 2002 Toyota Estima minivan and import from Japan. I’m in the process of building it out on a very very small budget. You have given me loads of ideas 🎉 thank you! I’m eager to see your new travels out west! I like the mini kitchen/ storage looks 👍 great 😊. The idea of a built up floor was good too. Keep on vaning and good luck! 🤞
Great job maximizing and utilizing space Maddie! It looks so cozy, yet not cramped. Very neat, clean and organized...I love it! ✌️
Thank you! It’s usually not this clean at all though, I just gave it a good spiff up since I was showing it to people!
So looking forward to your road trip adventures. You are a true minimalist. ❤😊
Not having A/C has been the biggest scare for me, but you seem to be doing well! You said you go where it's fair-weathered? Like snowbirding? I might have to do this. It could still be a goal to get A/C, but I've been thinking I might put that decision off for after I have actual experience of what I value in my preferred van lifestyle. Seeing you do just fine helps lots!
I'm moving into an apartment for a lease term to save money and buy time to deliberate on a vehicle, but in a year or so, all goes well, I'm excited to get started, myself!
Best of wishes on your upcoming adventure! 🎉
Thank you! Hope your travels go well too! Sounds like you’re doing all your homework and being super prepared!
Buy a later model sienna hybrid. Run the a/c while you sleep at night and it will only use about a gallon of gas after running all night. The hybrid battery powers the a/c and the gas engine turns on automatically every 15 minutes or so to recharge the battery. Sleep at whatever temperature you set the climate control at.
G'day Maddie, good to see you getting back on the road again, nice run through of your van.
All the best for your future exploits. Bluey
Hey Bluey! Always great to hear from you! Hope all is well down under
Thanks for the video. A minivan is what I would make a traveling car build too. I love your solar set up.
What a wonderful young lady you are. Just a joy watching this. I know it’s about the van but I would like to hear about how secure u felt as a woman camping alone, especially in urban settings. I imagine you took extra precautions and chose your campsites carefully.
I’ll copy and paste the link for a video I made a while back that has a part about all the safety things I could think of. I use the app ioverlander to find campsites and read every review to make sure no one has had a problem at whatever place I’m going
m.ua-cam.com/video/r5oSTpKNvhE/v-deo.html
Great video . Good for you . I’m married now but we are thinking about moving into an RV a class C . I lived in a jeep as a weekend warrior type deal when I was younger and loved being creative and finding ways to adapt and improvise. It’s fun. Great job going 2 years . Congratulations on the boyfriend .
I was just on your live stream. I'm so happy to see you move on to Van life! I will be following you.
Yay! Can't wait!
Loved the curtained counter thingy.
Thank you!!
Very nice, great job without breaking the bank. Be very proud of yourself! . I’m prob the 10,000th person saying I want to do the same. Am retiring in a couple of years and though I don’t want to go full time, I want to travel, camp, backpack across the US in something doable and
Not conspicuous.
Oh that’s awesome! Best of luck on your travels!
I loved the intro & esp the scene where your getting thru the sand haha awesome tour! Excited to follow your road trip 😊
Yay! Thank you!
I did the same thing with night mode when I bought a 2016 ford transit. Put blackout curtains around the windows and black out curtains separating the front and back
Nice!! Curtains are great!
Love the van tour video!! Thank you for sharing and I can’t wait for your van adventures🤍
Thank you!!
Very interesting, well presented video. I like how much thought you out into planning the van build - wow! Be fun to see your trip out west. Stay safe!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
This was great and a good reference for someone who may want to try this with their van. Nicely done on how you utilized the space you have etc. I can't wait for your road trips, it should be a lot of fun in the van.. Thank you for sharing.
This van tour makes me want to rewatch the whole Road Trip BrewSA Playlist! I know what I'm doing at work this week haha
Heck yeah! You rock!
In a year or two when your AGM battery starts to weaken, and you replace it with an LFP battery, I expect that the price of LFPs will have declined so much that you can consider that you got to use your AGM for free. :) Just tell your solar charge controller that it's connected to an LFP now, since the charging profile is different. Nice van arrangement, thanks for the ideas!
Good idea! I definitely want to upgrade at some point!
Vinyl seats are the worst. I always had a towel to sit on. You either freeze your behind, or have to peel your behind off
I rented one of these to go to Grand Canyon from Sonoma County California.....I loved it!! Thanks for reminding me. Maybe an RV is just too expensive....❤❤
Looks like a great option! We absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE our no build van for travel! “Keep making memories & adventure on!” ~Karen & Shannon WOY
You missed out on your "spray compartment," --- I'd call it my "Spray Array!" LOL
Loved the tour!
Awwwww! What a missed opportunity!
Great video! I just came back from my first road trip in my 2017, spent 2 nights on the road from PA to AZ, 3 weeks later came back, also 2 nights. I learned so much and have a new list of ideas that will work for me. Looking forward to your next video!
Experience is the best teacher, as they say! Thanks for watching!
Spectacularly neat and pleasing to the eye. We males adopt the "mountain of crap" van storage philosophy. Toss all your possessions into a giant mountain that reaches the ceiling of your vehicle. If you ever slam on the brakes, your mountain of crap will slide forward and bury you, and future civilizations will find your skeleton 😆
Thanks for the update. I haven't watched since you left the long hike. Toyota Sienna mini vans have a quality reputation. Enjoy!
Thanks for checking this one out! I’ve missed the AT viewers!
I’ve always kept a towel up front !
So handy
Twins!!
Love this tour! I want to be doing this in a couple of years so this is all inspiration!
Thank you so much! I hope that works out for ya, it’s an awesome experience!
Yay! Looking forward to your next videos. You are really good at making these interesting.
Glad you like them! Thanks so much!
For potty, use a steel coffee can, a rubber hose for a seat cut down the center and wrapped around the can. Set inside two 4 gallon trash bags and a kayak pee bottle with a female attachment, the most sanitary and compact potty tool.
Wow a few years after Road-trip Brew-sa, and I still love your van build, all the storage space you utilize!! I'm excited for another road trip with you Maddie! Thanks for sharing with us 🎉🎉😊😊🌞🌄
This is amazing Maddie! Literally what I’m dreaming of doing 👌🏻
Wait is this Jack Evans from England? If so, thanks for watching my channel! And if not, thank you for watching my channel too!
Thanks!
Thank you!!
Wow sister you have organized all these very very well. I’m very impressed and jealous on how smartly you have managed it all.
Thank you so much! It was a lot of trial and error!
Great video. I like your attitude. I'm in an Astrovan so I can relate!
Oh nice! Those are such a vibe!
Hi Ranger. Spreadsheet and I are slowly converting our 2021 Sienna. It's fun to see your ideas (although we're making it fit both of us). You're giving us additional inspiration. Also, it's fun to see Smoke Master again. Tell him we said hi! ~Smoke
Hey Smoke! That’s so cool! They’re awesome adventure vehicles!
Thank you Maddie for sharing you Toyota sienna camper with us.I really enjoyed it.I hope you to have a great week.
Thanks, Jimmy! Hope you have a good week, too!
: ) THANKS MUCH for sharing ! ! SO many great ideas : ) I bought a 2012 last year, and love the Sienna, only part timing at best to stay close to family... ALL the BEST and safe travels ! ! Cheers from Left Coast : )
Aw yay! Cheers to you too!
I have been looking for a Toyota Sienna....I am not certain on when I will pull the trigger (initially). And, I am a bit nervous on taking the initial step of freedom (I am guessing I am a worry wart - lol). BUT, I am headed out in Feb to Mar for Padre Island Texas to expand my horizons. I have a 2021 Tacoma that I purchased new ... I added a kodiak canvas bed tent, etc etc. (I have basically everything one needs for exploring) I quickly realized the need for being stealth (and taking it down in the rain - argh) while spending a few days in the Keys last year. I did find a hotel parking lot that didn't have a gate or security. (This worked well). Sleeping in the Tacoma drivers seat not the most comfortable on an incline. Sooooo.....You (Thank you) reinforced what I need to do...just get the Sienna. I am going to do it and then in a couple years (to ensure I can do this) purchase a Class B.
Please continue to post, you make it very easy to follow. Again, thanks so much. C
Tocomas are smol. I've driven them enough to know. The Sienna is a whole different experience. It's so much better, bro. Take the next step
Good! I’m glad this was helpful!! I didn’t want to commit to a Sienna for a little bit too because do I really want to drive a minivan around? But it’s been so worth it. I really think it’s the most space for the best gas milage. I post a new video every Wednesday evening, but I don’t have any van-related ones planned any time soon, just outdoor-adventure-related. I do have a playlist called minivan life: everything I know that I hope would be helpful to you!!
You did a great job with this Maddie! I can’t wait for your adventures out west this summer!
Enjoyed you on the Kyle Hates hiking podcast at trail days recently too! ❤
Thanks for watching both of them! So many exciting things happening at once!
I enjoyed you vid so I’m going to subscribe to enjoy the rest of your journey thanks for sharing it with us 😊 I hope to be out there as well as soon as I save enough money to buy a van
Oh yay! Thank you so much!
The shoe basket is a good idea
Thank you!
Great build, looking forward to your trip out west. Stay safe!
Thanks! Will do!
New Susceiber here.. You are just adorable! Glad I found your channel and I love your Sienna!
Yay! Thanks so much!
its super brave and resourcful living footloose like this. ive heard the generation living in this way referred to as ' the precariat' :)
Your set up is my NUMBER ONE favorite all around. I looked for a video in your channel about more details regarding your electric set up but couldn't find it. Would you mind posting a video giving advice and sharing resources about it? That's the one thing that concerns me a bit and I am still trying to wrap my brain around the electrical needs and options to consider. I've watched hundreds of videos to come up with what I want to do with my minivan. Many of them feel overwhelming with items all over. Your set up really matches my ideal living space. I love the bed and the counter along the side. I want to be able to cook and do what I may need to do without having to step outside in case if it's raining. I also love the tapestry on the ceiling. Your delivery is clear and very useful. Thank you for sharing!
Thanks so much! I'm really glad you enjoy it!
Here's the video explaining my electrical set up: ua-cam.com/video/m5GAR4UCzCI/v-deo.htmlsi=NAbi_C33F6Slg74G
If you go to my channel, scroll down a ways to the playlist "Minivan Life: Everything I Know", that's where all my informational videos (and some vlogs!) are :)
Wonderful! I appreciate it! ✌️
I like the layout of your van x
Thanks!!
Great tour and a very practical and good looking van conversion. Also very tidy and organized. Removing the plank flooring and the other side lifts up for more storage...brilliant idea. New sub here.
Thank you so much!
I thought with Siemna Hybrid's, that the AC comes on automatically during the night. I started watching Nikki Delventhal's channel when she drove a Prius, and that's what her hybrid did.
The edging looks nice on the floor, but I use it for storage. I can store a surprising amount under there.
Your bed position is exactly how I plan on doing that in my Sienna.
Great looking setup, well done!
Great living set-up and thanks for showing us. I am really looking forward to your next road trip! PS: hello to "Smoke" 😻
Thank you! Will do!
Nice job on van and knowledge you have on van living
Thanks so much!
❤ Great Van build ❤so happy your going to make more videos 😊
New videos every week on Wednesday at 8pm Eastern!
Excellent job. Very useful for ideas for myself. Thank you
Great! Glad it was helpful!
Very nice story. I've had 5 vans. 2 VWs in Europe. Aerostar in the 90s (fun/quick), Econoline (roomy/slowish), and now my 98 Astro, the best.... but engine went byebye. So, I need another camper with stealth.
PriusV or Sienna. Prius too minimal. Probably a Sienna.
I've always opted for max open space. A Tri-fold mattress works fine. No cabinets. Attached metal grids over the window--4"
grids used by retailers.. Handy to bungie string bags with supplies--clothing, camera gear, etc...And a Thule cargo box. So, the space is completely--open and good for artwork efforts...watercolor. and flexible.
Tinted windows & black curtains. I can urban park easily. I store a tent in the Cargo box. I use it to indicate a space is occupied at the parks. A tent and a couple of chairs does the job....If the space looks unoccupied during the days, people can nab the space. ...they don't notice the little receipt stuck on a post...It can get edgy.
Toilet care is pretty easy...and a bit secret. I can wash in a bowl of water before bed....Minimal is not difficult.
I've never had a complicated electric system...but will.
So now it's buy a PriusV for gas savings.....or a Sienna for comfort.....Prius V would be fine on a road trip in Mexico where hotels would often be used....The Sienna is the option for comfortable N. American touring. CONFLICTED BIG TIME!??!
Very nice and effective setup!
Thanks!
As a sort of kind of expert on Toyota all-wheel drive, it has over 100,000 MI change the oil in your front and rear differentials and transfer case. The weakest point on the all-wheel drive is going to be the rear differential.
Also, change your antifreeze immediately. The antifreeze that Toyota uses is very acidic. Since you don't know when the last time it was changed it needs to be changed within 2 years because it will start to eat your radiator and your hoses.
Great van build 😊 your plans sound great...🏕✌🏿
Thanks! 😊
New subscriber- love your channel title! Also loved the van tour!
Yay! Thanks so much!
in addition to your bear spray. a fire extinguisher. not just for fire, but for protection too
That’s a good idea!
Well done, good to have and updated tour and hear what worked and didn't. Enjoy your time getting back out there.
Thanks, will do!
Hey Maddie!!
Hey hey!!
Hi Maddie 👋🏻 Hope you're doing well my friend 😊 God Bless 🙏🏻 Appreciate you!🫶🏻
I am definitely doing well!! Very excited for this premiere! Hope you're doing well, too!
Very nice built
Thanks!
Great set up and great video. Thanks 😊
Thanks so much!
That is an awesome build!
A Bluetti would help increase your power. For heating the Honeywell HeatBud only uses 250 watts, so it's a good option for small spaces.
Your Delightful! Safe Travels and wonderful journeys!
Thanks so much! I really appreciate it.
We have a small aluminum fold up table that folds up very small. I recommend them.
I had a white, plastic folding table for most of my time living in my van! It wasn't in this video because it's currently serving as my desk in my apartment!
How do you attach your black out curtains to the windows?
Fyi from 8yr van guy, get 3 different squirter bottles (for easy id) for water, vinegar + water, and bronners soap +water. You can brush teeth w water squirts over trash can. Use cheap resturant napkins available a smart n final stores. -Matt
I don’t have a black out curtains for my windows, they’re window covers from weather tech that are just held in place by being the exact size as the window. If you mean the big black out curtain I use to block off the front seats, I thought I showed every part of that in the video, can you be more specific about what you want me to explain?
As far as the spray bottle system, that sounds great! Maybe I’ll look into that when I finish my bottle of camp suds I usually use the clean dishes
You may cover your stuff at the passenger seat with black cover or cloth.
Cool build. I am learning so much. Thank you for sharing your journey with us. I
❤❤
You are so welcome, I’m so glad I could help!
Wow was für ein Platz👍👍👍Wunderschön 😊
Nice build, checks all the boxes!
Thank you!
I'm proud of you and love you, all the way from🇿🇦
That’s so cool!! Thanks for watching!
Very good setup young lady. Cheyenne. Part time vanlifer...
Thank you!!
Thanks for the tour. I enjoyed my stay.
Come visit again soon!!
Thanks for sharing! I enjoyed your video! 😊
Thanks for watching!
Have fun and be safe, I'm looking forward to more adventure videos.