BIG MISTAKES We Made Living In a MicroCamper in Europe
Вставка
- Опубліковано 8 вер 2024
- Vanlife in the UK is over, now for European van life| [Go to drinkag1.com/t... to get started on your first purchase and receive a FREE 1-year
supply of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 travel packs. Thanks to AG1 for sponsoring
today’s video!
In today's van life video, we take our micro camper (Citroen Berlingo) to Europe and move into car camping full time #CarCamping #MicroCamper
WIN OUR CAMPER VAN CONVERSION - RAFFLE £5 a Ticket
raffall.com/35...
If you like our travel vlogs 2024, please subscribe to our channel for weekly content
/ thosehappydays
Join this channel to get access to perks:
/ @thosehappydays
We start today's van life vlog in Dover and drive to Dinant, Belgium. That's where it starts to go wrong and changes our plans massively
We also post daily updates on Instagram, please come and say Hi over there:
/ thosehappy_days
For Collabs or Promos, please contact us via our email happyadventuredays@gmail.com
HOW DO WE GET UNLIMITED INTERNET & DATA WHILST TRAVELLING?
We have an incredible portable mini travel router when we travel from a company called ConnectPls who also provide e-sims. We've used them for over a year now, and love them. Here's a link and DISCOUNT for our followers connectpls.com...
WHERE IS OUR MICRO CAMPER FROM?
The Citroën Berlingo with micro camper install is from Redcote Leisure, we also got a number of our accessories from there redcoteleisure...
WHERE WAS OUR NAV SYSTEM & WINDOW TINTS FROM?
Our awesome windows tints on our campervan was from Moto Bars. We also got a dash cam and media player install here too. They deal with installs for all vehicles and vans motabars.co.uk/
ADDITIONAL AG1 INFORMATION
AG1 is a
comprehensive and convenient supplement engineered to fill the nutritional
gaps in your diet and support your body’s nutritional needs across four
pillars of health: Immune support, Energy, Focus and Recovery! It’s packed
with over 70 ingredients, including vitamins, minerals, whole-food sourced
ingredients and combines the perfect amount of micronutrients, absorption
and taste to jumpstart your daily routine. AG1 is available in the UK, US,
Canada, and Europe.
WIN OUR CAMPER VAN CONVERSION - RAFFLE
raffall.com/355345/enter-raffle-to-win-win-beautiful-off-grid-camper-van-conversion-hosted-by-liam-day
I thought your camper had already been won?
I TRIED LIVING IN CAR GAVE UP AFTER 6months WISHING YOU BETTER LUCK THAN I HAD BUT IF ANYONE CAN DO IT LIAM and JANINE CAN WISHING YOU LOTS OF LOVE ❤️
What’s with the shouting capitals? Turn the lock off.
@@christopdeck3457 PARTIALLY SIGHTED MATE SORRY
@@kevinnoone8828❤❤❤
@@kevinnoone8828 😂😂😂
OK THANKS 😮🎉
You were parked on an “Aire de Autoroute” which a Motorway Service Area and not really an ideal place to overnight. What you should look for are “Aire de Camping Car” which are dotted all over France some are free some require a small payment.
Hey guys,as a disabled lady I too cannot always shower,my great discovery is from aldi in the baby section,extra large baby wipes in yellow packet only £1.89p great for when you cannot shower,love your videos as I am almost housebound and love travelling with you ❤❤
Janines face keeps telling me she misses her big green van!
Car camping for a holiday, yes. As your home, no.
I have said exactly the same.🏴
Personally I couldn't live in a car as I would get too moody lol 😂 but as for Liam and Janine, I personally feel they they can face the longer term challenges and live life as an adventure. They are extraordinary ❤
On one hand, having less means less worry too and you get the chance to see beautiful places. But personally, I guess I'd prefer a slightly bigger vehicle, because I would feel misserable on a rainy day and I have a couple of hobbies other than travelling that I want to bring with me and there would not be enough space in a Berlingo.
But go back to Ardennes when weather is better! There are so many beautiful places, lots of history too!
I think the clue is in the name car camping is not meant to be car liiving/life unless like many people now it’s becoming the only roof over their heads they can afford.
I love camping/caravaning but I could not live in that Berlingo, and I would have to camp on a site because as I am older I need a loo a lot
I think a few nights sleeping outside in a tent will help oxygenate yourselves and you'll feel refreshed.
Great episode guys . Be careful in French motorway aires. I'm on a campervan FB group where a number of members have been broken into in the middle of the night, whilst they sleep. They all say aires in the small towns just off the motorway are much safer. Good luck on your drive south 🚙🌞.
Unfortunately we have come across this sort of thing already...not good
I love how you two are not fazed by anything - finding positives in every situation! A wonderful mindset to have! Love your travels! Keep happy safe and well! 💕
Thank you, we show it how it is in the moment. We have nothing to hide and genuinely enjoy the challenges that come from adventures like this
Lovely to see you again, Liam and Janine, embracing the challenges and following your heart. Wonderful episode today. Really cheers me up 🤗🤗🤗 Thank you both. Safe journey. Enjoy it all xxxx
The air conditioner is your best friend for getting rid of moisture and drying your wet bedding. As others have said, avoid sleeping at motorway Aires as you could get robbed. Look for Aires in towns, there are plenty of free ones 😋 Provence looks beautiful. Enjoy the sun ☀️ ❤
Wish we had AC! Haha. But the blowers might do the same thing. We've fashioned a permanent washing line in the back.
And we have recently learnt the hard way with the motorway aires
So in Europe you have things called aire de service which are nearly all free . You literally don’t need to be too stealth in Europe because almost every village in France has one. Many local bakeries even bring fresh baked goods to them to sell you! The Europeans are a bit more ahead of the uk people in terms of this because they no it’s good for local businesses to have the aires .
It's a fabulous thing
The park4night app will show where all the aires are , they are in small villages all of the place!
Don't go hanging washing out.
Cheers"Happy Days are here again",totally understand the sleep deprivation, constant and consistent driving takes so much energy and concentration,being in a different country,and starting out in something smaller thrown into the mix doesn't help but it makes one more resilient if the time is used profitably,Janine and her morning routine and yours,things will be on the up and up.What you lack in one side is made up in the other,NO ROUTINE,Happy Days happy travels,so look forward to next video❤😊
I 100 pecent agree. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I like the idea of car camping but stealth camping in a small car seems like to much roughing it against paying for a campsite and putting up the rear tent area to make things a lot easier. 😊😊
Campsites cost, and often quite high costs...it's a different ball game. But you are right there will be space to put up awning etc
Just a thought. UA-camrs - Philly & Keely converted a small van - putting a SMALL vent in roof for ventilation- perhaps contact them for the make/model. Also add - Search for Citroen Berlingo 2009- 2018 Side Window visor Sun Rain Guard Deflectors). Add using window démentions sleeve bug screens. Purchase a Tuff sack - dry bag - for wet items. A small tuff sack is good for garbage as no Odour escapes.
I have even to Belgium. I loved Brugge. Enjoy your trip. You You need a laundrette to dry your wet things you can be find for wearing flip-flops while driving in France
Get boat shoes in Nice. Look smarter than flip flops and just as cool.
Glad you are in the warmer climate, next you will be too hot with the sun beating down - that's life! 😊
That's being British for you isn't haha, either too hot or too cold
I love you guys and your wonderful spirit! I know it must be difficult in the car but you are making it so much fun for us viewers. Im so happy youre back to camping.
We love camping so much, and all the challenges and fun it brings. Thanks for watching and commenting 🙏
I am not a van lifer, but can clearly see that living in a tiny van wont work for more than a couple of days. Might be ok for some skinny gen z, but not for 2 adults. Hate to be negative..but😢😊
You two have the most precious thing: each other. With some bumps here and there, you'll be fine in the end. A suggestion: next time you get your stuff wet, stop by a laundromat and use the tumble drier. Happy travels!
I've been car living for over 3 years, trust me it will get better, I did all of Europe, you can get to more places, tip, get a leisure battery attached, that's a must 👍
❤
This is such a positive comment ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Tim. Nice to see you here. I can confirm Tim did indeed do car life for some time and very much enjoyed it. He's a guru in this area 🙏🏼
@fairyfizz3102 fairy 😁💐xx nice to see you, I'm currently static in Scotland doing volunteering work on a terminal ladies flat, heading off back to Spain on 28th to look at property due sustainable living,
The thing is I think I have the perfect car for living in, toilet, full size single bed, curtains etc (Honda crv 4x4) it's helped many a people get off beaches etc.
I did have a house & business but due to partner passing I decided on a travelling lifestyle (my book still feeds me my income).
It is difficult at times, loneliness can set in if in the middle of know where but that's also the joy 😁,
More tips 😁, carry a full jump pack and charge whilst driving, avoid turning on car electrics, mobile toilet (my seats go far forward so I just lean on front seat whilst 🤔🤫😂)
Solar panel on my kayak, that also doubles as water and fuel storage.
Best to look at my travelling site, gives loads of tips on car living, I cannot see me giving this up for a while or until I build my property in Spain 🤜🤛happy travels, keep smiling and make 1 person smile a day, that's my life 😁💐👍xx
did you do it with 2 people living in the one car?
Brought me to tears, you doing your wrap up stroll in that pure air with the rolling vineyards Liam - such a relief for the soul to be able to expand
Hi, my top tip would be to buy some heki wind deflectors which is also good for rain and allowing you to open the windows on a night when its too hot.😊
We Bought some but they don't fit...proper nightmare...on the lookout for more now
eBay is your friend. 😂
@@ThoseHappyDays try storm xcessories wind deflectors if you can get them mailed to somewhere en route. I preferred them to the heki ones on my Peugeot Partner
You can drive through Greece and then a ferry to the islands or Cyprus..also many people drive to Turkey
Because it’s a better country .😊
@@phillipcarter8045 which country are you on about?
Turkey is wonderful
We went to a swanky champagne place, being Aussie just shorts and t-shirt no worries, the attitude of the owners said it all.
It all changed when my Uncle who took us there ordered 12 cases of champers. Very funny experience.
I stuck a pole and two short blackout curtains behind front seats to stop people seeing into my van last year - perfect and cozy. Keep going you both, it takes time to get the best set up. Jen x
For me your basically living a few levels above living on a street.
None of this looks good. Sleeping in such a confined space with no ventilation is not good for your Chest with the volume of condensation being produced.
It's also harder to prove that you don't intend to drive off in a "car" if you're asleep and had a drink and you are asked to do a test.
I do hope you can get through this period until the Raffle finishes 🙂👍🏻
The good news is you are watching an honest channel, and if it's bad we will share our experience
You are both so inspirational. I love your positivity and how you face challenges head on. Good luck with this new adventure ❤❤
Thank you so much, made our day reading your comment ✨️🍷
Yes. Liam and Janine certainly do face challenges head on and have v high levels of resilience. I feel that is what enables them to live the life they love on the road. I had wet pillow cases and sheets during monsoon in India and all I did was winge. However it did toughen me up!!!! ❤
Oh dear me I just couldn't do it lol I'm 5ft 9.5 , I'd do the traveling,no problem but I think I'd be buying a tent......you're both such good fun n making lots of memories,good luck lovely people ❤️❤️❤️ X
I fully agree with you on the wine Liam, chateauneuf du pape is also my favourite red wine after having it many many yrs ago 👌
👌👏🍷💃
I love how resilient you two are. The vineyard was a nice reward for going through all the discomfort of the rain and damp bedding! Loved your music choices this week by the way ❤ Have fun you two 🩵💜💛
Love your flexibility, positive attitude, your love for each other- the real fuel that keeps Those Happy Days going, and your wonderful videos that make my Sunday so beautiful... thank you Liam and Janine.
FYI you need to wet things exposed in the car when you're driving and get the heating on to dry everything out b4 stopping for the evening or you are going to start getting really ill guys. Get the heat circulating in the car and it should dry any of your sleeping kit.
Thank you for sharing. I hope your sleeping gear is now dry. Lovely views. Nice to see you managed to find vegan food and wine. Enjoy the sunshine. Stay safe and happy travels xx
Thank you ✨️
Liam, you have so much to learn about Aires. Motorways are not the safest places to stay. Although the difference between car and van may be different. Try Aires off the main track.
Just be warned that your cooker is illegal in Europe just check ❤happy safe travels
Where does it say that?
Lots of people are doing the same as you two, so just be optimistic and organised. You'll have great adventures.
Good to see things improved after a disappointing start. I bought a tow bar mounted storage bag and suffered as you did with water ingress. They are waterproof when static but when moving at speed water will always find a way in, usually through or around the zip. I overcame it by buying a double sized waterproof bike cover and put in inside the storage bag. It doesn’t stop the water getting inside the bag but the double skin keeps your things dry. Hopefully it’ll be nice and dry for you for the rest of your trip.
Please don’t ever stop at motorway Aires, they are unsafe places to stop overnight. Always go to Aires in the towns which are much safer. Never advisable to stop at the motorway ones. Thank goodness you were safe this time. I hope you have a good and safe trip. Wishing you luck.
Another fantastic travel vlog adventures of the beautiful Janine & Liam. Have a lovely Sunday and week ahead. Love 💕 Janine & ❤ Liam from Scotland.
Thanks mate, have a great day 😀
Soo Good to see you on the road again and heading for the warmth and many adventures. All good even if a little wet at times.
Awe I just love you two ❤ No matter what’s going on, you just jump right into it and get on with it. I always love watching your adventures and your car camping is a wonderful adventure ❤
❤️🚗⛺️💃
I'm in. Because I'm so curious as to how this is all going to play out. I know I couldn't do it full-time. But I don't know a more adaptable van life couple than you two.....and I follow a few. I can't wait to see where this takes you; not just geographically either. This is a big change. A real challenge. I'm sure you'll show us how it's done. Safe travels. Much love...
🙏❤️🚗⛺️
Just love how positive you both are. Take care ❤
That 1st park up aire was motorway aire not the real aires for camping. Don't park near rubbish bins. Safest for car camping is to park near motorhomes away from lorries if possible. Good luck
Hi Guys, hope you ok, can’t believe your in Belgium already, yous amaze me with your sheer determination nothing fazes you, the love you have for each other is so sweet, I’m excited to see where this journey takes you, il be watching with my fingers crossed, I hope it all goes smooth for yous, enjoy yourselves take care of each other, love yous and thank you 🩷💙
@@grahamjohnson4702 An aire is a rest area, that's it. Some of them are just car parks with maybe a toilet which may or may not be open (if not when you go around the back to pee you'll see steaming piles of no. 2 as well), others have petrol stations and restaurants etc. and can be compared to service stations. Most European countries have loads more of these (both with and without services) much more frequently than here in the UK.
As to car camping, it's not expressly forbidden anywhere in France. But there are specific aires de camping in France as well where it's more comfortable.
@@grahamjohnson4702 Those rest areas with or without petrol stations, cafes/restaurants etc. are aires, so yes you can use any as an aire, as it just means rest area. It's not actually forbidden to sleep in your car in either type, in France, or in fact anywhere where you can park a car.
French tourists drive to the Netherlands and think they can sleep in their cars, and are surprised to get fined for it.
Love watching you two but puzzled why you didn’t buy another Campervan Like a bongo they can be picked up from 5k upwards I have one. Loads of room , the top goes up , you can stand up n cook , there’s a table fridge and loads of room , but who am I , hope it gets warmer and easier for you x
Well done you guys, weather makes such a difference. Your time on the vineyard was just what you needed. You make me very envious of your wonderful free spirits, take care. Hx
🙏🙏🙏
Thank you for making my Sunday morning. I miss you guys when you appear to take a break. We loved the south of France so I’m sure you will. The markets are amazing. Stick with it. Good luck. xx
Fantastic video guys, you will crack the car camping I'm sure. You are a great team. Lovely reward after the rain 🍷😊, safe, dry travels ahead ! X
Thanks 👍
Don’t you two ever change ❤ the devotion you have for each other and your destination makes my heart swell ❤ Keep thinking outside of the box and go where your heart desires. I’ve never been to Provence and not so long ago discovered that my great, great grandmother came from there, so it’s been a treat to see where you are. It does look beautiful. Take good care of yourselves and enjoy every moment ❤
❤ thank you so much for the lovely comment, really loved reading it ❤
Good plan to miss the rain! We are doing the same in Spain at the moment rather than spending time in France as it’s wet over a lot of it. Good tip for the condensation on the windows is a Karcher window vac- they are superb in the morning when it’s all misted up! Happy travels
Hey guys, firstly, I am NOT a bot and this isn't an advert, just a tip that has helped me. I found these on Amazon and honestly, they are incredible. My windows were always wet in the morning too. They're small and you can hang them up, I use them in my campervan. They are absolutely brilliant, and I'm shocked at how much moisture they collect. Definitely recommend 😁 'Belaco Set of 12 Hanging Dehumidifier' 👍🏼 Mind you, just wondering how you could order them on the road...🤔😄
Not keen on micro campers, I prefer the big camper that's my opinion thank you
Awesome!! We do a lot of back country hiking-camping, back to the truck in 6 days. Car camping was a luxury, and it’s fun to watch your downsizing experience. We have however, upsized to a 17’ caravan, for being out and about. Happy trails!🍻
With all the condensation. Run your aircon it helps remove the moisture
Halfway through and my heart is breaking for Janine. I don't know what your route will be in France at all but you are very welcome to crash at ours whether just for a safe park up or a comfy bed and a vegan curry. You are very welcome. We are close to the historic town of Chinon.
Awe maybe a UA-cam meet up with Sara and Luca of LeAw Leave Everything and Wander at their Sicilian olive grove is in our future?
It just looked lovely there in the vineyard. Hope it stayed nice and warm for you both xx
Who'd have thought it 30 days ago we'd be sitting here drinking Chateau NeufduPape. (from the four yorkshire men)
I have a Berlingo and the best thing I have done was get rid of the bootjump. Although I don't travel like you do I can see a set up without the boot jump far easier as gives you more head room inside and you just need boxes for stuff which you can store on folding frontmseats. Only issue is length to slep but im sure you can work something out.
If things get wet take one item a time into the front of the van whilst driving and put the heating on and dry things
You need to get some vacume pack bags and a camping air pump. You can vacume pack everything really small, plus keeps them dry. We used to camp but only had small car boot. It's amazing how much we could take!
Village Aires are what you want. As a generalised statement Motorway Aire de Service are not particularly safe. Aires will generally have water, grey & black waste facilities. Stay safe.
So glad you ended up somewhere warm, damp weather no good if you are having to sleep in a car. Enjoy your time in Provence and follow the sun! ❤
I think these guys inspirational on camera behind the camera they can be very tired uncertainty also sleeping in regarding Morgan and whether they will sell the amount of tickets the aiming for and how long they will have to stay in that car. I lived for two and a half months in the car tiny Corsa 1999 4 door, and I can tell you it's hard, don't fall in a trap that is fun to travel in a small car to adults tiny car they are squeezed like a bird in a cage. I wish you all the best guys on your journey and also to sell the Morgan to the price you want
I reckon I could do a night maybe two before getting a tent for some space, that really does not look fun in the rain with no space
Switzerland is beautiful but it’s really expensive also you got to LAXX it’s legendary on the Ski Snowboard community also before you cross the border Val Cenis in France is nice don’t worry the alps are warm in the spring and summer.
Sicily !!! Our family lived in Sicily for early 3 years…..Drive to the top of Mt Etna, also everyone goes to Taormina to see the beautiful Greek theatre, which you should but then keep driving up Castlemola….small village that looks out over the expanse of the area.You will probably park on the outskirts of town and walk in…the streets are very narrow. We stayed 2 nights in a hotel and had to park outside the city and walk in. Good luck…look forward to your adventures in Sicily….💕
Guys I think it’s a great idea with the micro van I would love to try it as long as I could stop at campsites where there are showers bathrooms even perhaps a cafeteria .
I hope your travels turn out well for you both . I couldn’t live in such a small place as have trouble with neck and back but if you can make things work good luck to you . Tell you what you are getting to see some fantastic places and scenery on the way , you are a lovely couple and hope you both have a great summer 😊xx
Chateau neuf from the vineyard very envious guys, good to see you laughing when things getting tough, remember stay on the right especially first time in the mornings 😊
Careful with the south of Italy - there can be a lot of car crime - especially with a car obviously full of possessions. Love the content - stay safe!
Thank you for an inspirational video. ❤. I can live vicariously through your brave adventures. Looking forward to your next one x
🚗⛺️🙏
And now the adventure begins!! I'm sure you will have a great time, although I think car life will be difficult even in warm countries, but if anyone can do it you two will, and it will be great fun for us to watch... Thank you for such a brilliant and entertaining channel...
At the start of this video I was thinking "oh no you've made a mistake" then towards the middle I thought "actually it looks challenging but fun!" Then, at the end I felt jelous 😂 what a fabulous and free life to live ❤
The sun makes everything better
So true
Enjoy your adventure. Its not the challenges you face in life, but how you overcome them. Keep making wonderful memories. Bet fuel is cheaper in Berlingo than Morgan. With money saved you could stay on sites. Which always reduces stress.
Glad to see youre both adjusting well to car camping. Maybe have a night ot two in a B&B now and again so you can have a few luxuries on your journey. Enjoy!
Good on U both...my husbands favourite wine ...he wooed me in 1979 with it over our first dinner out ! Have a great trip .
And the rest is history 🍷 💃❤️
Car Camping great for occaisional weekend breaks but please re-consider Morgan for long term.
You two are the human equivalent of that sticker you see on old British Landy’s “One Life Live It” 😂 All the best on your new adventures!
🙏❤️🚗
good wine, company and sunshine. Hard to beat.
Use a plastic air deflector on the front windows so you can crack the window for air circulation or a plastic air vent that the window closes on to
Can i recommend that you get a Karcher window vacuum for the condensation . So much easier than a squeegee and tissue !! A real must have in a van or car camper
Rechargeable Window Vac, Power Window Vacuum Cleaner Set, Window Squeegee Electric Cleaning Tool for Windows, Tiles, Mirrors, 200ml Water Tank
You're doing well. Congratulations. I'm afraid I couldn't car camp. Me, the dog and the bird would go stir crazy. It's good fun following you, especially as you are travelling through Europe. I left there in 1960 and will never have the chance to go back. Have fun and keep safe.
A great move to drive south! If Sicily was your goal anyway doing the trip in reverse means you’ll see Switzerland in better weather. Great fun! X
That's the plan! ✨️👌
Hi there, I'm Irish, l living in Spain 5 yrs. It's the roundabouts here that initially caused me so much problems. Forget all you know about driving In UK. Stay in the outside lane on them always no matter where your getting off.
Also go visit the Cabo De Gato Almeria. Beautiful place. You'll both love it, best of luck safe travels 🙏🙏
Glad you’re on your way the sun, especially for Janine. We will be over there in 2 weeks can’t wait! Looking forward to your next episode❤
This video put a smile on my face, just seeing the ups and downs of life - the changing weather, and how you both handle it. I enjoy watching your channel so much 😊💜🌞🕉️✨
Glad you enjoyed it!
It's a lovely region. If you go further south and slightly west you will come to the Camargue where they have black bulls, white horses and pink flamingoes and some beautiful beaches. I used to spend my summers there as a child. Beziers has a huge fishing port and lots of waterways that go into the town itself.
So glad things are warmimg up for you guys. ❤❤❤
Ummm, Dunkirk was not 'D' day. That would be Normandy.
That's the one
didn't troops in France escape from France to Britain from Dunkirk?
Fantastic guys!! You're determined & it's all gonna work out to be another trip of a lifetime. ❤❤❤
Love love LOVE this one! So happy you guys have found some sunshine and smiles. Keep on keeping on!💚🌱
Thank you, much love 💃❤️🚗⛺️
Driving down through Italy will be manic and when you get to Calabria for the ferry to Sciclly watch out its a free for all as you get off the boat. Scicily is very expensive so fuel up in Calabria x
Watch your pennies you too , just got back from our 2 month trip across Europe to turkey and back spent 8 thousand pounds not so cheap abroad anymore good luck to you both from Steve n Sharon
Tip……use a large microfibre cloth to get the condensation off the windows. 👍🏼
💯 what we do
If you get to Sicily, make sure you take a ride on the train ferry from Villa San Giovanni to Messina. It’s the last ferry in Europe where the train goes onto the ferry.
Great vid. I’ll definitely visit that vineyard and do the wine tasting. I’m passing through nearish to there in about a week - looks fab!!
Look out for service stations, and supermarkets with laundermats outside. You can wash and at them.
Love your attitude. Wish I could be a little more carefree. 👍👍