10 Things We HATE About Our Van (And What We Would Do Instead)

[@Bethanjbjrs]

We have an induction electric hob and we LOVE it. It is quick, it doesn't stay hot and you don't have a naked flame and a bunch of water vapor. It is like magic, it works so well. It does use a bunch of power but we have plenty of solar and battery to feed it. It does not cook high temp stuff like steak well. We also have a backup butane stove. We usually use it for smelly and splattery stuff outside, e.g. if we are cooking with garlic or a curry or frying bacon. We don't want our van to smell like that. We also use the butane if we are low on power because it is, for example, snowing or we are parked in a dark forest. The majority of the time it sits in the back of the van in the pile under the bed. I would fight for my induction stove, it rawks in a van.

[@phillyandkeely]

That's a really good idea to keep butane back up best of both worlds then, yeah I'm hearing very good things about induction, sounds much better than other electric hobs!

[@debbiemclachlan6840]

We bought an induction hob..best thing ever..heats up quick and cools down fast ..got to use the right pans etc but sooo worth it..great video again ..hope ur ankle is healing well xx

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Debbie, glad to hear you have a positive experience, i believe you 😜

[@Krell666]

Yeah induction is fantastic, IMHO combines the best of gas and electric.

[@WagnerGimenes]

@@phillyandkeely Same here. Try induction and it might change your opinion.

[@Amanda-uc5jq]

I hate induction cooking, maybe because I love stir fry’s and they are hopeless for them. Also any time you move the pot or pan off it goes instantly cold so disrupts the cooking process. I’m one of those people who lift the pan the move the food around etc so I’m 100% with Keely on the gas subject 😂😂

[@debbiemclachlan6840]

@@phillyandkeely we use our gas hob too but if hooked up to electricity we use induction ..it’s just a portable one from go outdoors x

[@patduff3378]

I love this video. I’m a 67 year old retired teacher. I bought a Renault Master and am converting it to a campervan. Your advice just sounds completely sound. Thanks , Pat Duff Dublin

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Pat ❤️❤️ hope it's lovely weather on Dublin today to work on your campervan 💪

[@kitsworld]

Hi Guys, Definitely the lack of a fixed bed is the biggest peeve with our van. It's a pain in the ass to build each night, a bigger pain in the ass to sleep in (literally! the most uncomfortable bed ever - I'd rather sleep on a boulder!) , and it takes forever to pack away again in the morning. Gas, gas, gas all the way! Couldn't agree more. Hot water? Don't need it, don't use it. Our van has hot water built-in (which I can't even remember how to switch on) and a shower room with a toilet that I can barely fit in and never use, and Jere has only used once. What seemed like a luxury is actually just a HUGE waste of space. I'd like to strip it all down and start again. Although, now that I've had a stroke (writing this very slowly from my hospital bed) I may not be able to do van life anymore, which is a crushing blow. (Please, send some good vibes to Jere. He's having to shoulder a massive burden, and he's being so brave). Anyway, as ever you two have lifted my mood and put a smile on my face. Thank you. 🥰🥰😘😘🤗🤗

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah I really think I would regret a shower, it's not used enough to justify permenantly loosing all that space. Duuuude I'm so sorry to hear about your stroke!! What the heck that's terrible! Sending you and Jere both so much love and strength!! You will regain full function and speed again I'm sure ❤️🙏 honestly I'm so sorry to hear you are both going through this and so grateful you told us so we can keep you in our thoughts 🙏

[@Kiwiwanderer]

You guys are adorable. The accents, the energy and humour ! Very practical advice. X from New Zealand 🇳🇿

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much ❤️❤️ we would love to come visit New Zealand some day

[@karlavelo2482]

You guys are the real deal ! I love you ! As for the equipment choices I'm 100% with you especially with the two front seats disposition, one extractor fan ABOVE the gas cooker (for odours and vapor) and the fixed bed in the lenght of the van. In the hot water department I must say I'm a sensitive little thing and I certainly don't like my shower cold ! One thing I can advise everyone is to check euronorm boxes for storing junk. Available in 60x40 centimeters and three heights at least, they're made out of sturdy plastic and stack up perfectly. Cheers

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Karl, I reckon extra storage boxes would be great addition!!

[@left_Dane_right_Dane]

For the external tap, it's not quite the same, but I have a 2 gallon rotopax on the back of the van mounted on the spare tire. I have a spigot on it that glugs the water out slowly. Very slowly. Perfect for washing your hands behind the vehicle, cleaning a food dish out, getting grease off your hands etc. It's amazing how long that 2 gallons last when you're using hardly any of it each time.

[@chrisl7902]

Some great tips there. I’m downsizing from our old A Class, which we lived in for 18 months. It’s just too big now. My current ‘ideal set up’ is a 6.4m Ducato extra high top van, front lounge area with drop down bed over it. Bathroom and kitchen to the rear and create a garage space behind the double rear doors. Then, 400ah lithium, 400w solar, diesel air and water heater, induction hob, Maxxair fan, some skylights and windows. Plus shoe storage 😂. Should be able to sleep and travel 4. Excellent comment about the passenger seat - the number of times my partner has had to get to the back to close some drawers 😂. I saw a neat idea yesterday, which was a sink in a slide out drawer - which meant more useable work space.

[@oneeyedphotographer]

The sink can be a bowl let into the drawer, or two if you want one for washing, another for rinsing.

[@PathsLessTravelled1]

I specifically designed our van to avoid gas, partly due to the compliance hassles here in Australia and partly because I didn't want the hazard or the moisture. So, we use induction and absolutely love it. I'd never willingly go back to gas though we do have a butane cooker as a backup. We heat our water using a diesel hydronic heater, and if we ever go anywhere cold (Melbourne in December for example) we have a diesel heater. Love your energy guys. Keep it up.

[@youtubehandol]

We have the sun to make induction partially viable, though. Europe simply doesn't

[@PathsLessTravelled1]

@@youtubehandol True that.

[@phillyandkeely]

Defo need a diesel heater for Melbourne in winter 😂

[@PathsLessTravelled1]

@@phillyandkeely We lived in Melbourne for 15 years and yes. We moved into our van in December last year and used the heater several times over the next few weeks before heading to warmer climates. We live in Darwin these days so don't need our heater so much... :)

[@Kommunisator]

Shoe storage: Some people heighten up the floor next to the front seats so when they have swivel seats the feet can still reach the ground. This gives you an ideal height for under-floor-storage that can accomodate... shoes :D If you route a small diversion from your diesel heater in there you can also use it to dry them if they get wet / snowy. To clean shoes outside first (and also pets etc...) there are low-pressure-washers with a battery from Kärcher, look them up. Just a quick spray, a small rub, and you take a lot less dirt inside in the winter months. Oh, and from experience: You are completely wrong about electric hobs. Use an induction cooktop. Yes, you have to have an inverter that can pump out 2000W but you need that for a lot of other stuff too. Induction cooktops are cold to the touch a short time after you take the kettle or pan away from them. They heat up instantly (sometimes too quickly), and they need very little space - and you save yourself the whol hassle of the gas system with all its safety requirements and additional inspections. They can also be used as a non-fixed device that can sit in a drawer until you need it. Just get one that modulates correctly and not just pulses. And also a word of warning: Some of them jump to the highest setting and have to be turned down when turned on - do your research. We got an inexpensive one (50€) and it has been a gamechanger!

[@agracefilledlife1397]

Me again 😂 your oak countertop…consider 3 coats of clear yacht varnish after your next tripple sand. It will completely seal it, waterproof it (beautiful beads will form but none will penetrate) but the beauty will not be lost. Our kitchen worktop was given this treatment from the outset and ten years on with A LOT of use, it is still as beautiful and as in tact as it was at the start. Promise 😊💞

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou so much for this tip!!!

[@alanhat5252]

​@@phillyandkeelythe Americans are now using epoxy instead of yacht varnish...

[@ilikecustard]

@@alanhat5252 I would be careful using yacht varnish in a van, it's solvent based and will continue to outgas for years. I would use something less toxic like danish oil or linseed.

[@debrandw246]

Love all the tips. Martha is awesome. ❤❤

[@tonyhawk123]

Just one note on that (good tip by the way), just make sure its all "food grade".

[@campervanchick8916]

Fantastic episode guys! I love that my own van compares nicely with yours and that makes me happy. With regard to gas/electric hob, I have both and prefer my cooker with butane canisters. But I also have a single induction cooker. It heats the pot immediately and does not have residual heat when turned off. I really REALLY enjoyed this one, thank you.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much, so glad you enjoyed it!! Lovely that your van is similar 🥰

[@cato_muppet]

To prevent sugar spilling out when the container tips over you could get containers with screw top lids, or those Tupperware-type containers with side flaps that lock down the lid. Love your videos! And Martha is the coziest van build I have seen.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Cat, that's a great recommendation 🙏

[@MrKidbatz]

Alternative is to buy a box of many individual packets like what they have at cafes/restaurants

[@alanhat5252]

​@@phillyandkeelyI like a lip along the bottom plus just the top covered by a flap, nothing falls out & you can still see what's there.

[@jten6632]

Careful with putting the hob at the back - you really need to be able to fit pots & pans against the back wall, nothing worse than not being able to use a pot larger than the hob. Also kitchen storage - I’d just put all the containers in two pull out boxes, then you can pull the whole thing down on the bench rather than rummage. Induction vs butane - have both! You can get a single induction that’ll hang on a hook really cheaply. I use Aldi ones for my cooking classes but Ikea is cheap too. They’re pretty small and really flat. They are instant heat! I have both and if I want quick heat, induction is best!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks for advice, yeah defo need clearance at the back, and also for safety it should be 10cm from back wall for heat purposes.

[@Arvanlife]

You can buy bungee cords and DIY clips for the bungee cord. We used it to secure containers in the van. Usually just pulled the container over the cord, but if needed we could unclip the cord. Might be a fast fix for the cabinet issues.

[@phillyandkeely]

Sounds like the perfect fix!

[@danam.8709]

If you have a kick space under you counter you could install a drawer there for your shoes. As for the bed , what about electronically elevating it? Up during the day, down at night.

[@phillyandkeely]

That would be awesome to elevate the bed!

[@jofiedler]

We bought our first van. I think from the same place you dropped your 4x4 van off in Adelaide. I am with you, I love our fixed bed and gas. If I could suggest one thing for your next van, swivel front seats and more windows. Ours has so many windows and we hardly ever use our lights. Love you guys. ❤

[@phillyandkeely]

Love these recommendations, swivel seat is definitely on our agenda and yeah more windows! Are you loving the van so far?

[@jofiedler]

@@phillyandkeely yes love it so much. Still work full time so can’t get in it as much as we would like to.

[@Outandabout-au]

Strip LED lights above and below cupboards and at floor level seem to be all the rage in caravans in Australia; you wouldn’t regret a skylight of some sort, and a small ‘range hood’ fan that vents out the side, then you can still have a cupboard over the top of it. That stretchy curtain wire is easy to fit to keep stuff in your shelves (is that a thing in Ireland?)Living in a small space, you have to give them a thorough clean every few weeks 😔 cos you’re so ‘in it’ all the time so you sure have to make it easier for yourself. I’m with you Keely on the shoes - I have little feet and my hubby has huge feet, I’m always tripping over his shoes, I’ve just got two soft plastic tubs and then I trip over them, so not helpful at all. We bought a portable induction hob - it’s great for outside or when we run out of gas (you’re right about the other electric types, rubbish). Great chat guys, you’re always so funny together 😊

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks for all these ideas!! Defo would love to vent out the side in our next van, cute to hear it can be inside a cupboard still

[@AndrewSaxton-b5v]

How refreshing to hear real opinions on practical matters with sensible solutions. Thank you. I do like the idea of induction cooking, but I agree its an expensive job to get enough electric capacity. Simple is good. What sort of gas do you recommend? campingaz, butane, propane, lpg - I've no idea which are widely available

[@phillyandkeely]

Butane was good in Australia but for UK it's perhaps not the best option as it doesn't perform below zero so might not be a good solution for winter. So we mostly used LPG patio gas as it's commonly available for garden BBQs

[@ninhingazanan]

Hello! Your cooking moisture experience shows why most people place their kitchen next to the slide door and mostly cook with an open door or have at least a window next to the hob. But with gas hob to open door you need a foldable wind shield. I have no experience with induction cooking nor the right pots and pans. If I think about camping vehicles I would have gas + induction for backup reasons. Well, dunno if induction pots break while using on a gas hob. Things to learn... Suggestion: try a mobile single induction field to try it outdoors! (no wind shield) :) The cooking issue with solar and battery power leads one to the first considerations of your whole electricity system which will fit your needs in your car. - How much consumer loads do I have to provide daily and often? Lights, phones, laptops, cameras, cooking, fans, water pumps, water heating system, off-grid tools, independent vehicle heater and hopefully rarely sometimes a compressor for your tires if you're in the middle of nowhere? Manual pumps for car tires works too. Then you know your battery capacity you'll need at least for you cabin. Not to confuse with your car battery. Reminder: AGM with i.e. 120 Ah only provides 60 Ah. - How much solar power would fit that if in perfect condition? >> Angle to the sun (panels flat on roof or mobile system or both? Global region? Season? Get it full daily and quick might be an illusion. - Should I add a DC-DC-charger which works while driving? - Use your 230 VAC converter as less as possible concerning to efficiency losses. Many items from phones, car fridge/cooling box up to laptops can be loaded with the right power-supply unit from your 12V cabin battery. Additional: have as much USB sockets as meaningful possible. Hopefully all DIY folks use the right amount, quality and places of fuses. One bad thing about power stations - burglary and theft. Circuits for lightnings: good to separate them like kitchen, "living room", bed and garage or at least 2 circuits L + R of the car for maintenance reasons. Saw an american woman which has each spot switchable in her van. Only ambient lights will not fit the daily using because all lights on in case of cleaning etc is good. One spot above hob + sink, one above dining area, one in garage and a reading light in bed should be minimum. Little light near door step might be nice or the better one: install a bright one outside high above the slide door with a switch from inside. It might disturb molestors if needed. Turnable passenger seat is a game changer in many van layouts according to cosiness and space. Windows is one of all challenges to find compromises in van conversions. More windows, more daylight, less lights on, less insulation in winter _and_ summer. Challenge accepted. :o) I like your kind of humour and might be watching time to time. Greetings from Germany!

[@phillyandkeely]

This is all such great information thank you so much for sharing all your insights with us! We will definitely be taking this ideas forward into a future van build!

[@SMafam5]

In our 10’ cargo conversion we sleep 4 and a dog. 2 sleep on single “bunks” width wise across the front of the trailer. And our queen+ bed is actually 80” in length when you add drawer glides & a thicker foam piece to account for the drawer glide being lower than the bed frame. Easy! I actually don’t need it but hubby is 6’3”

[@SMafam5]

There are two separate drawer glides & “feet” cushions - so we don’t have to pull out both.

[@phillyandkeely]

Awesome!! Yeah I think a drawer pull out for bed would be great!

[@abundanthouseplants]

i’m trying to design something for my two boys and myself. i’d love to see more bunk pics!

[@thewheallons]

As I hate the idea of shoes in the main van, we enter the van in the front. Shoes off and they are stored in the passenger footwell, I attached some hooks to the interior bodywork and a bungee net and shove the shoes in there. We also store extra shoes under the passenger seat. If you don't already use that space for something else, cut a hole in the base box and then you can store extra shoes there. As for Philly's boat sized shoes, they should be stored on the outside of the van like canoes are 😂😂

[@phillyandkeely]

🤣🤣🤣 those boat size shoes haha! I also seen someone else saying hooks to hang their shoes in the cab thought that was cool too, yeah I HATE having shoes in main van compartment.

[@christinamann3640]

There are hanging canvas sheets that are divided into pockets for shoes. I’m thinking of using those for the cab divider curtains

[@phillyandkeely]

That's a good idea 💪

[@sueshea3546]

Love your video. Thank you. FYI: I have recessed spot lights in a small room. If they shine straight down it is very stark. But the metal can (holding the bulb) has, like an eyelid, that can cover about 2/3 of the bulb, and you can rotate the bulb in any direction. So instead of light shining straight down, you could direct the light at a counter top or wall, etc. i got them at HD. I also love the ambience of a mini lamp on a kitchen counter or table. I know space is an issue, but there are tiny rechargeable lamps. Also, a string of warm white (not cool) lights is calming, easy on the eyes and diffuser lights up everything. Really enjoyed watching your vid. 🎉

[@phillyandkeely]

I think a mono lamp for kitchen/counter would be lovely and ambient

[@barbarahanson900]

Love you're video , just a thought, would it work to fix an elastic net bag to the back of the passenger seat to hold shoes ! The net would allow the air to circulate if wet 😊

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks for the idea Barbara 🥰🥰

[@gbpine]

I love the new electric induction cooktop. I have both gas and the induction portable. We use it when connected to power mostly. But I’ve recently started making coffee in a mocha pot and induction does that faster than hubbies Keurig. IMHO love you guys!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks for sharing your experience, honest opinions are exactly what I want to hear ❤️ I suppose induction would be good for when hooked up, but I worry fully off grid it would rinse batteries.

[@pamelaselway6669]

Never replace a fixed bed. We were so glad we had one even, as you say, people said you would regret it. No we didnt. We had an induction hob but also had gas.

[@phillyandkeely]

Fixed bed for life!!!

[@EBaer-ve7gh]

Also, about the shoe storage, I would put a drawer or even an opening by the door and get a shoe brush to brush off all of the dirt.

[@phillyandkeely]

That's a good idea 💪

[@lauramariagabre4847]

There are some portable range hoods that might help you a lot on the matter of keeping the fan clean while also keeping clean air in the kitchen area while cooking. The idea of placing a window right in front of your stove top would actually just worsen your problem. As the hot air filled with oil particles that steams from prepping food is lighter than the cold air flow from the outside, you would only end up having one more force acting to direct hot air flow into your exhaustion fan and probably pushing it around the whole van. That new window might be of some help if you only open it while cooking when the door upfront is also open, though.

[@phillyandkeely]

Oooooo that's interesting science there about the oil particles!! Very interesting!! I'm a total dork for physics haha

[@trishdavy5560]

We have just visited a caravan camping expo here in Australia and we were amazed by one set up that had a huge square dining area but no bed! Until the sales rep pressed a button and a king sized bed lowered from the roof 😮 it was amazing!

[@phillyandkeely]

Woah that sounds awesome!

[@ilikejelly7890]

Rechargeable bulbs are good , curtain wire on hooks on ceiling, 12v shower and builders bucket, 2 shower curtains. for inside or out. I have just ordered a maxspeedigrods generator for extra power. My bed is old divan bed I cut into boxes, L shape so i can leave bed made up and still have square for seating. Have extra box to fit in if needed for hubby. I covered foam squares with leatherette material. Bed at front because old 3 way fridge was high up at the back. Just fitted new one. Positives are I can walk from front to the back of van . Mot tomorrow for old Bessie, wish her luck guys. Michelle x

[@phillyandkeely]

Good luck to Bessie, let us know how she goes!

[@alexandrajoelle2926]

I hang my muddy shoes on some braided cord & a carabiner! I hang it on the headrest at the back of my seat, as it’s hard plastic, but you could also hang on a hook elsewhere, at least while you’re occupying the van.

[@phillyandkeely]

This is genius!

[@karenevans5767]

We have a 3.5 vintage mohome. it's different from a van, but we up grade something every yr. lots of hooks, swivel table, Moroccan style fake tiles, pale blue paint to cover all the fake wood. it gets more homely every time we go away.

[@phillyandkeely]

So nice to keep upgrading isn't it ❤️❤️

[@levitz115]

Hi guys, love your channel, currently in the middle of a build (partly inspired to do it from seeing you) and working through your greatest hits, (the e-bikes in Paris is where I’m up to). The lighting suggestion has made me rethink but I am considering induction 😱😱. I think you’re confusing all electric hobs and induction. Induction is a type of electric hob but uses a magnet field to heat the pan and reacts quickly like gas. The hob surface doesn’t get very hot or stay hot. They are more efficient than gas but do take a lot of battery power which is the key drawback, like a toaster or kettle. Still veering to induction though, sorry Keely🤗

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah I didn't know induction was different to electric, intriguing. Love that you are all the way back in Paris, that felt like a lifetime ago haha

[@Valerie-ut2dk]

You guys are so cute together! This made me smile. No van plans for me though but thanks for all your insights.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Valerie ❤️❤️

[@paulinewatkins8327]

Love your Van. We boil our water and wash in a collapsible basin outside, so don't have running water at all, we cook outside, gas is the best, but we are lucky, our weather is great in Australia, hubby & I follow the Sun & stay in the "Goldie Locks" Zone 24 to 28 Degrees Celsius top temp. We've lived in the Van for a year and lovin it. Wish i could attach a photo here to show you. Our Van is not as high as yours. We have a Toyota Hiace Commuter SLWB (Super Long Wheel Base), 2021 Import. We put the basics in and have added along the way or even taken stuff out too. We have 3 gas burner options, if raining we use a Jetboil inside. We have a cast iron Ring burner with gas tank, and a compact single burner with butane. We have a toilet on a draw slide under the fixed bed, Can lift one end of bed with gas struts for storage, & have pull out draws the other end of the bed. 🚐☕🇦🇺🤪😘

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah Australia weather means its perfect country for vanlife, it's just such an outdoors culture ❤️ your van sounds fab

[@davecoulter4680]

We have a semi fixed bed, using a king sized mattress that folds and locks up with space for anything that we use regularly, and stops said items from dropping on our Dog, also we have 4 sets of lights which have their own switches...we are only down the road from you if you would like to see it

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Dave, that's great to hear ❤️❤️

[@jacquelinehocquard4400]

Hi to you both, I would just like to say that I 100% agree with you about cooking with gas. I was a chef many years ago and loved cooking with gas. I also have a camper van and love van life. I am looking forward to watching your next van build.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Jacqueline ❤️ looking forward to getting a van out in America and doing a bit of a revamp that will be fun

[@Aaron-P]

Agreed, the spot lights are great for the galley prep area, a bit harsh for general illumination. I like the LED strip lights tucked away into a channel facing up so the light reflects off the ceiling. Second place option would fairie lights. Have never used one, but apparently the induction electric hobs are faster even than gas, plus heat the pan directly so the stove is only residually heated and cool quickly. Downsides: ridiculously expensive, requires ferrous cookware or adapter plates to work (sorries, aluminium Moka pot), 🎉and would also require more room for bigger batteries. TL,DR: Yep, gas is still a very strong option for van builds. Skylights are great for natural light, but also a sizable water intrusion site. ⚖️⚖️⚖️ Bottom line, every decision has a trade-off. Martha is dear, and she is a lovely home. If youse are happy, then the correct decisions were made. ❤️❤️✌️😎xx

[@phillyandkeely]

Very true every option has pros and cons you weigh up what is important for you personally. Moka pot priority 🤣🤣

[@Aaron-P]

@@phillyandkeely 👨‍🍳☕☕

[@petcuyvers]

​​@@phillyandkeely Can get Induction friendly Mika Pot with stainless bottom. They work on gas too, that's how I'm still using it. And No need to fill up with coffee unless that works for you.

[@helenreid4174]

I absolutely agree about old fashioned electric radiant hobs - they are terrible. But induction hobs are great - just as fast as gas, much easier to clean, create less condensation and cool down really quickly. We have a portable low-wattage induction hob for our van, a small air fryer and an electric hot pot as well as our two-ring gas hob. Actually, my favourite of them all is the air fryer; it gives you so many more options and we can run it from our EcoFlow.

[@phillyandkeely]

I would love an air fryer!!!

[@petcuyvers]

​@@phillyandkeely Look into the new 12 V 250 Watt 3lt-4lt travel air fryers out (available in Australia, possibly elsewhere too).

[@helenreid4174]

@@phillyandkeely I bought the COSORI Small Air Fryer (2L, 900W). It’s slightly on the small side for two people compared with the one we have at home but it’s much smaller (our van is only 5.4 m long so space is tight).

[@lauramariagabre4847]

about the spotlights, one cheap solution would be switch those you already have for same size slim directable spotlights and aiming them to the walls, you might loose an inch or so in total height from floor to the lighting no more than that

[@always.wondering.wandering]

I have an induction/electric cooktop, one burner which is way better than just a plain electric burner, it heats up fast, it came with the van and is built in. I do however, also have a single portable butane cooktop that I can also use. I would love to redo my bed which is side to side. My bed is an electric couch that goes down to a bed but I just keep it in bed mode. I'd take it out and build a permanent stucture and a little higher so I can store more underneath. I hope Martha gets turned into your dream van/home someday soon. Thanks for sharing all your thoughts and ideas with us today. 🤔🚐

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much, your van sounds awesome! I think Martha is pretty awesome for what she is, most of these ideas are things we would implement in a future van, Martha herself is everything we needed her to be ❤️❤️

[@Debba521]

Thanks for this helpful video! I do have a camper van wish list that I keep adjusting as I watch these things. Everyone's different and so what's priority for one may not be for another. My priorities are bed, cooking and toilet/washing. I can't remember, do you guys have a toilet in the van? That's gotta be there for me. I would prefer a showering system of some kind as well. You can't always be conveniently located near a block of toilets and showers when camping, certainly not if you're wild camping. And besides, I really really don't like using public facilities. Cooking, would always go with gas. Electric sucks! I have electric in my current kitchen and hate it. Can you fit a double sink in a van? I really need that. Fixed bed, absolutely. And I'm really short so across the back is fine. I wonder if I'd be better off with an RV, even a small one, to get a proper bathroom. Just can't compromise on that. Anyway, really good to have this kind of content to help with the camper cogitating. 😊

[@phillyandkeely]

I've seen people with a full size sink in their van, as long as you keep the counter top to create a lid for it so that it can double up as prep space when not being used I think that can be totally doable in a van. We don't have a proper toilet in our van, but we would add one to future build when we have more space. We think a mercedes vario bus would be perfect size ❤️

[@vickiepascoe2852]

I'm not sure if you can get them in the UK but we have these rods that extend across our containers and hold them in place. They're called tension rods and come in different widths.

[@sloopyjoe1777]

More windows needed or roof light, plus swivel on passenger seat. Roof light works well and is more secure. What about magnets on the shelves to stop spillages.

[@phillyandkeely]

Oooo magnets, interesting!

[@phillyandkeely]

Oh yeah I've heard of tension rods before! So they must exist!

[@stephenrussell6074]

Replace the spot lamps with warm white 120 degree or greater bulbs, are they gu10 or MR16 spots. You could also replace them with philip’s hue bulbs so they could change colour temperature and be dimmable. The full colour ones would be even more flexible. Expensive but you can swap them out and take them with you if you move to a new van.

[@phillyandkeely]

Oooooo interesting, never even thought about changing the bulbs themselves

[@Jonty_and_Chantal]

I love our Thule shoe organizer. It hangs on the passenger seat, and can hold large shoes. You too are so entertaining!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou 🥰🥰

[@stevemichael8458]

100% agree about RADIANT electric hobs. But INDUCTION hobs don't have any of the disadvantages and are faster and easier to clean than gas. There is still the issue of them hammering your electricity supply though which may be an issue when you are off grid. One other issue with Induction though is that it won't work with aluminium - so the Moka coffee maker is a no-no! (You can get stainless steel variants though :)

[@phillyandkeely]

That's good to know about induction, much better than radiant heat! However not only our coffee pot but also Our Omnia Sweden that we use all the time wouldn't work on induction (plus we are almost always off grid) so I think gas is still my number one choice 💪😉💪

[@geoffs3805]

Love the video, we’re in the middle of having a van converted for us. We’ve already covered most of your issues but disagree with the electric hob. The induction hobs available now are so much better. They heat the pans so much quicker but don’t get hot like gas. So no risk of a pan fire 🔥 You can get spot lights which dim individually now, easy replacement for you 👍

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Geoff, yeah I reckon swapping dimmable bulbs would be great

[@yvonnereed167]

We had the cheapest bench top convection hot plate in our caravan alongside a 4 hob gas burner in our caravan and we would use it preferentially to the gas any time we could (even on a low powered eco flow that could only run it on the low setting) because burned gas has toxic fumes (benzene’s or something) and we found our water would boil in almost half the time than on gas. No left over heat on the plate where we always had to wait to close our lid over our gas stove.

[@phillyandkeely]

Interesting 🤔

[@petcuyvers]

That sounds more like Induction rather than convection to me maybe?

[@SecrePeach]

Brilliant video guys, quite a few must haves are already on my list you mentioned so I’m feeling like I’m on the right track. You’re right about it being a personal thing, having done my besties van, we’re very similar but I’m amazed at the difference tolerances we have to things. So glad you mentioned about lithium batteries, I’ve decided to invest but so many people try and talk you out of it. For me a must is a ‘wet room’ area (or should I say cube) 😂🤣 this Cornish rain is like a monsoon, you guys must be the same in Ireland right? The space will be for hosing off wet/dirty dogs, drying coats and towels using a diesel heater vent, toilet etc

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah in my future van fantasy I would have a porch area, somewhere the wet boots and coats come off and get hung before coming into the home section ahah

[@Beepy-the-Vellfire]

100% agree about electric hobs, they're rubbish. BUT an induction hob is not the same at all, they're brilliant! They heat up as fast as gas and cool down fast too. Ypu can control the temperature as easily as you can with gas, and if you have a good battery size with engine and solar charging then they are game changing! 😃

[@phillyandkeely]

So interesting lots of people are teaching me about induction, I'm still a gas girl, but good to hear it's a better option than I realised

[@Beepy-the-Vellfire]

@phillyandkeely yeah it's pretty good. I think you'd need some seriously beefy electrics if you wanted to do something like the Arctic circle in winter and rely on one, but lithium batteries are so good now it's a way more viable option than it used to be!

[@johniooi3954]

Shoe storage. A drawer under bed that goes into the garage. Gives you access to shoes from inside van, but only takes up a small amount of space in garage, which then can be used as a shelf.

[@phillyandkeely]

Great idea John

[@UKstobbs]

Things I would change in your van, everything! Not really just some of the layout, get rid of the dining area, move kitchen to other side, have sofa sitting area where kitchen currently is so you can open side door and look out while eating on one of them tables you can swivel around. Plus swivel passenger seat at least. But I do love ya van and all the content you put up 😊 keep up the good work guys ❤

[@phillyandkeely]

Swivel seat for sure, yeah next van I would defo move the seating area up front the way we did with our van dingo in Australia, do the kitchen at the back. Would love to do a proper corner sofa vibe.

[@Coxeysbodgering]

TrueBlue bungie cord to dold stuff in, and didn't Lou split the lighting in Fanny?

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah we could defo split the lighting like Lou did, in our next van build we will certainly do that and zone our lights ❤️❤️

[@fjgaston]

Electric induction hob are faster than gaz, they are also very safe as the surface of the hob isn't hot at all. But you need to have one that doesn't require too much power from your inverter. I have a 800W induction hub and it works very well. Of course it will drain your battery depending on your battery capacity.

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah induction sounds much better than older electric type hobs 💪💪 but yeah I like to do alot of baking and I think it would destroy our batteries to use for an hour at a time haha. But would be really good for boiling and shorter stuff

[@CarrieMtn]

Great video. I have the ikea shoe cabinet. Attached with heavy duty Velcro. It works great for me! If my shoes are extra muddy they stay up front until dry/clean.

[@Livewellwithtia]

What a joy seeing you on my Sunday ❤️ great points guys 🙏🏼 also Keely I hope and pray you’re healing well and that you both have a great start to your week xxx

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Tia 🙏🙏🙏

[@youtubehandol]

Hey guys! Gordz from Aus here! As our build (removal truck) continues, I have done EVERYTHING you said you wish you'd have done! Massive sink (900x450x450), 3 zones of recessed LEDs down the length of the truck (dimmable), 5 burner gas hob with a rangehood directly above and externally extracting (keely you're right about electric coil hobs but INDUCTION electric is amazing.. I have one of those as a backup. Seriously impressive and WAY faster than gas), I've got slide out drawers out the back doors, storage in the entrance for shoes, and two electric beds (i'm also 6'4) that sleep east west yet articulate both the legs and head to convert into a couch! I did go a laminex counter though, as my thought process was needing a gloss surface for things to suction cup down to. That really was my only thought on that; grating my own cheese, lmao. I'd love to show you our build so far but don't know how to get yous!

[@phillyandkeely]

Wow that sounds like one heck of a van!! I've heard we can change our Spotlights to dimmable ones by swapping out bulb so that's good to know

[@craigbrowning9448]

I don't have overhead cupboard doors, but the shelves have 2" lips on the edge to keep items from falling. In addition to that, I've got Bungees strung in parallel above them to additional help keep things in.

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah a lip would help alot!

[@Gary-r9e]

😊I fitted white L.E.D strip lights and some come with a dimmer so when your cooking of on the laptop, it can be nice.and bright, but when chilling the lights can be dimmed down

[@phillyandkeely]

Love that idea

[@craigbrowning9448]

I normally use a Microwave for cooking. I also have an Electric Kettle, an Induction Cooktop, a Mini-Crockpot and a Butane Campstove for backups. I must admit that I have a Bluetti AC300 for power with a 1500 Jackerys as a backup.

[@phillyandkeely]

So good as power backups arent they!

[@Ashleighandluke]

100% agree about a fixed bed 🙌🏼 we have one where just the end pulls out (similar to what you were saying) and for the sake of the extra living space in the day and bigger bed at night, it so worth it! 👌🏼 We have a gas camping stove and a plug in electric hob…. I prefer the gas 🤣 but our induction hob heats up so fast! Also, shoes! We’re figuring out that issue in our van at the moment and thinking of using the space in the panel on the sliding door 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@phillyandkeely]

Ooooo interesting about the side door, like eating into the cavity of it? I hate our side door 😂 it doesn't open from the outside, which seems annoying, but to be honest it makes it harder for thieves haha so that's a win

[@mimivanlife57]

Thank you for me on the hunt to buy a van and have it built out. Got some great ideas from this video. ❤

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much, glad you liked some of the ideas 🥰🥰

[@batcactus6046]

My Westfalia has a gutter over the stove, I always have battery string lights in there, warm white, and also a string of Christmas colors. Great ambiance, and it could be wired, but for me why bother.

[@phillyandkeely]

Sounds cute! You've reminded me to get Christmas lights now haha

[@batcactus6046]

Yes, a gas stove.

[@AmericanAdventuresInJapan]

Nice vid. SHOES! SHOES! My thing, too. And traveling with 3 retrievers, we get messy, muddy things all the time. I got those plastic totes used for storage. It fits 2 pairs of shoes and messy dog towels. Then when we get to a parking area, pull the whole tote out and just hose it all down. Now, gas. I used it and when I got IH in, game changer. I think you’re talking about those old coil stoves. Others up top said it too, IH is the BEST. Boil water in 45 seconds. Cook meat in 2 minutes. But if you do still have standard batteries then don’t. You can only use 50% of your standard batteries. But lithium phosphate batteries can be used down to 0%! But I won’t go back to gas.

[@phillyandkeely]

Interesting, everyone is doing a good job of trying to convert me, but something in me just feels like being completely reliant on electricity for everything spells disaster for my morning coffee needs 🤣🤣 if I have to choose between power for editting a video and power for my coffee I think we all know you won't be getting a video 🤣🤣🤣

[@AmericanAdventuresInJapan]

@@phillyandkeely I do have a backup burner, just in case. But, I don’t go on long adventures like you guys do so…

[@shanetinworth8881]

@@phillyandkeely 🤣

[@petcuyvers]

​@@AmericanAdventuresInJapan Yeah, spending weeks or months on the road mostly off-grid means you need to manage your power and prioritise. If you have 300Ah + of lithium, and/or have loads of solar and drive a lot, then certainly works. Try not to run your lithium below 10%-20% if you want them to last a long time and stay reliable.

[@AmericanAdventuresInJapan]

@@petcuyvers I get it. But I will say, IH does use a lot on switch on. But because it can boil a pot of water under a minute, the total usage is actually very small. I now have an all electric system. My rice cooker, again, new one that is IH, my range and even a water pot (also IH, but I only use it when my 2 burner is in use). Even on some long trips across Japan, cloudy days, I’ve never seen my batteries go below 60%. But, like you said, you need to prepare a good charging system to support them. I have 3, solar, alternator charger and the a buck booster that acts like solar power but is from the alternator.

[@wolfemoves]

Haha love the chat. Brilliant views and news from 5 years in that beauty. Just starting Reno on a not so old fiat Ducato, here in Edinburgh. Filled with old BT works gear,.like a massive inverter and back up battery. (And a hot water boiler so that leads could make a cuppa on the go.). Who said no way to the hot water !? Actually totally agree - away with such features in van. Super interested in the induction vs gas. Gotta say I like a naked flame too. But also like the idea of a bit of a combo like others have said. Battery capacity assumed. One question is whether you've ever had the front seat mattress thing for visitors. And those external front window insulation thingies. Heading to wintery climes so thought it may be needed. Thoughts?

[@BusOffwithJosie]

Loved this vid !!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou my love ❤️❤️

[@HeyHollyYoo]

Couldn't agree more with everything said in this video! I had dimmers on my overhead LED lights and they were separated for bedroom and living areas. I would say dimmers are a must - I hate bright lights at night and I pretty much kept them very dim all the time. I never used the separate lights because I opted to put dim fairy lights in the bedroom area and just used those when I only wanted the bedroom area lit up. I think because the bed is high / fixed, having lights above the head on at night would not be pleasant, so I also had a DC powered 'bedside' reading lamp if I wanted to read!

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah dimmers would be so good! Glad you agreed 🥰🥰

[@oneeyedphotographer]

I saw a similar video from Someone Else earlier today. They had the same lights concern. His suggestion was to place the lights behind something so light bounces off walls. Why can't you do the skylight this week? Ditto the bed. See Eric Enjoying Earth. Electric. I want a 3000W inverter so I can run ordinary household appliances. Like a kettle. Like an espresso machine. I did my research, I need at least 300 amps of "12V" electricity. C is the battery capacity. For maximum life, you discharge AGM batteries at .2C, a 100Ah battery ato 20A. 15 100 Ah AGM batteries. FeLiPO4 you can generally discharge at 1C, so 2x 150 Ah batteries. I'm going with 2x200 Ah batteries for a bit of headroom. Oh, AGM batteries you should discharge to 50%, lithium batteries generally to 100%. If I want hot water for a cup of tea, I boil some water in the kettle the same as I would at home. Ditto espresso coffee. Reheat some food? Microwave, same as home. Me, I rarely use a stovetop at home, but I think an induction stove would be fine. I think I will drive enough to keep the batteries charged without solar, experience might show otherwise. I don't see a need for gas.

[@phillyandkeely]

Good idea about placing behind to bounce for lights

[@Sblackphoto]

When you place your gas hob at the back of the counter top seriously consider the back splash material which will need to be fire retardant. I agree with the points you made though electric hobs have various standards. Ceramic, hot plates, and induction. Induction is fastest but definitely gas is easier as you can replace the cylinder with ease rather than charge the battery bank.

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah that's why we have proper ceramic tiles for the heat of hob, I recommend real tiles to everyone for that reason

[@Sblackphoto]

@@phillyandkeely great.

[@petcuyvers]

Maybe swapping gas bottles is ok for some people's set up, but others find having plenty of Ah battery storage and solar is easy too. Go for cheap decent lithium LiPo4 over super exy.

[@stellaswancounselling]

On point. I agree with all of it our van is very similar. We have a loo which I love and a cupboard for shoes. ❤

[@phillyandkeely]

I would love a cupboard for shoes and also hangers!! A wardrobe would be heaven!

[@melaneyreimer4124]

I love the special appearance of your Lems footwear. I've been seeing them occasionally in previous videos. They deserve their own video.

[@phillyandkeely]

We love our Lems Shoes!!! Genuinely I put on my crocs again the other day after exclusively wearing my moon boot or my barefoot shoes and it made my ankle sore, made me realise how important it was I let my foot only heal in barefoot shoes, nothing that is going to confuse how it should heal.

[@desireelovell8440]

My husband set up his van for short term living. He had a futon sofa bed. It folded out into a double bed to sleep and back to a sofa through the day, if he wanted the space. He seldom made a sofa. He had a gas hob, which scared me but I did like the instant heat. I totally agree with timber counter tops. I have a black wood kitchen and would never change it for any alternative. As for shoe storage, I would have draws with bins, under the bed. One draw would be for clean shoes and one to store wet and dirty foot wear until they were dry and clean.

[@phillyandkeely]

Good tip about the shoe storage!

[@tonyhawk123]

This style of video (likes and dislikes) is insightful. Please do one on a regular basis! (every 6 months or yearly ish).

[@IShallNotBeSilent]

When your shoes are dirty or muddy, put each one in a plastic shower cap.

[@phillyandkeely]

Never thought of that!

[@kimkreider9043]

This is soooooo helpful!! We are getting our van soon so this is very timely!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Kim ❤️

[@stephenrussell6074]

Induction hobs are the alternative but gas is easier to get anywhere.

[@phillyandkeely]

More gas is easier to get than more power if I keep rinsing batteries every time I wanna make a coffee 🤣

[@fayeharrington9610]

I never laughed out loud at a van video -- when you put her shoe inside yours, WOW! First time I've seen your channel, and you are both adorable.

[@phillyandkeely]

Aww thanks so much Faye, glad we gave you a laugh 🥰🥰

[@The_OG_Peaceloveandpuppies]

Thanks for the likes and dislikes about the builds you have done., I like the sky light ideas, saw a couple in the US that put a full opening skylight in their van. A lighting idea for you with the spotlights instead of the baking paper try to find stained glass stickers for them should take away the glare problems and give a mood effect for that ambience Keely was talking about. Hope your ankle is getting better than even. Much love guys❤

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou so much ❤️❤️ that's a cute idea about the stained glass!

[@The_OG_Peaceloveandpuppies]

@@phillyandkeely you're welcome

[@mcarolivm7280]

Love the skylights, had them in my bdrm - great until full moon or T-storms!

[@christinamann3640]

If you’re thinking of redesigning the van, I would recommend looking for inspiration from Overland Interiors in Ontario Canada. A couple of vanlifers have had their van builds from them, and they are now developing ready to install kits.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much for the recommendation Christina 🥰

[@veronica1952]

Love your van it shows your personalities and probably the only thing you need is more light so perhaps a window. 👍💚 Hope you are feeling a bit better and the physio is working 🤗

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Veronica, ankle is doing so well ❤️💪 I've noticed a real improvement over the last week

[@rebecca_finds_life]

Definitely check out the van Ladi & Margaret built out for storage ideas - it is SOOOOO detailed!

[@phillyandkeely]

Their builds are great!!

[@SilverFoxDeux]

For the shoes, perhaps a pull out drawer under the seat to the right of the sliding door. Line with cedar or something and place drip trays in for bottom. Open door & Slide in shoes. :) this is something you could do right away ! Cheers and get to Arizona!

[@phillyandkeely]

This is a great idea!!!

[@the_drake_escape]

I think you guys are fantastic you always bring a smile to my face, hopefully one day I'll bump into you and buy you a coffee keep it up and get well soon Keely 👍👍

[@phillyandkeely]

Well I could never say no to a free coffee 😜

[@the_drake_escape]

Coffee is sorted then no worries, hope you both had a great New Year keep up the good work and by the way fantastic job with the kitchen renovation​@@phillyandkeely

[@charlenechua6073]

Nice list of van life episode

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks Charlene ❤️

[@derekmcfadyen127]

Having watched you guys make coffee for the last few years .. ive just gone and bought one of those gas stove coffee pot doo da thingmys 😂❤❤........ yet to try it so ill be mostly trying new coffee from here on in ❤❤😂😂....

[@phillyandkeely]

Yessssssssss so good!! I hope you love it. If you have a nice coffee you only need to do two heaped spoons, don't feel you have to fill it to the brim like some people do.

[@derekmcfadyen127]

@@phillyandkeely i will take your advice 😄😁😆😅

[@petcuyvers]

You will love it. I have a small one I mostly use on single compact Gas burner in my van mostly outside the back (Aussie style). It's the only thing (coffee grounds) I throw on grass or bush as compost and great for nature 👍😁

[@natsonline]

YOU TWO ARE SO HILARIOUS!!

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much Nat 🥰🥰🥰

[@lisawanderess]

Great video you two beautiful humans. Don't hate me but I've always removed gas from my vans...I have such an aversion/fear of it, especially in a confined space with minimal ventilation 😨 I just bought a tiny plug in double portable electric hot plate from KMart for $29 and the bonus of that is I can stash it away when not in use and free up my very tiny benchtop and I love it! I can run it on my solar battery set up no problems and don't find the heat up/cool down time too bad. The smaller plate is only 900w so not too bad on the Bluetti's LiPo battery for the short times I use it for. Real upholstery is next on my wish list 🙏 Shoes...oh don't get me started! I'm guilty of owning way too many shoes! I stow them all away in a clear plastic storage box that goes under my bed for easy access. Totally agree with the necessity to buy the best, most comfy mattress you can afford (pillow top....❤) because it functions also as your lounge when chilling out watching KZbin and Netflix. I'm with you on the no hot water...I've been 5 years full-time without it no problem! I just stash up on baby wipes for on the road washes in between showers. I do have an outdoor solar shower (basically a big black bag like the one you had in Dingo) that is great for off-grid outdoor showers in the wild. I'm so used to using the kettle to heat water for dishes now that when I am in a house I sometimes forget that hot water comes out of the taps! 😂 Living in a van is a constant evolutionary process of refinement and alterations I find, the more time you spend in it, the more you realize ways to make things more efficient and functional and I love that! Tiny living makes you think about space and the accumulation of stuff in a completely different way than living in a house that I think is so much more aligned with our true human purpose ❤

[@phillyandkeely]

So true it is a constant evolution for sure! Yessss good pillow is also so key!! I've realised that staying at my mum's, had to bring our good ones from the van cuz I was getting a sore neck every night!

[@Bethanjbjrs]

We have two different kinds of shoe storage, we each have pocket storage on one of the doors (I have the passenger side, DH has the driver side) and we have a shoe rack by the entrance for our slippers and whichever pair of shoes we are currently wearing. I'm not sure if it is possible to add photos...??

[@ekdaufin1485]

You seem to have a really great relationship! ❤🎉

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou ❤️❤️ we love eachother more every year 🥰🥰

[@TheBethaiable]

for a fixed bed an more space, more and more people have stasrted getting beds that stores up against the ceiling. like an elevator. it can be done mechanically or electrically and i see it in more and more vans, youii dont have to make the bed pretty or anything and its ready for sleep when brought down :). If i had the luck of living hte vanlife i would've gone that road ^^

[@phillyandkeely]

That's a cool idea!! Will defo look into this for future van build

[@denisesperry-j5g]

Z What I’m gonna do on my van is do a cut out under the bed between the seats so it’s big enough for a small laundry basket that was store under your storage. Great place for shoes.

[@phillyandkeely]

That sounds like a great idea!!

[@sueshea3546]

I would use induction cooking all the way. (Don’t knock it til you’ve tried it). It is the safest option without compromising effectiveness/quality. The surface stays cool, only the pot/pan gets hot. No open flame. No combustible fuel or gas so no need to ventilate for that. Most precise temperature control. Can heat and cook faster. Has the most even heat distribution. Smooth surface clean with one wipe and nothing stick or burns. Auto shut off. Only needs an electrical source and is far more energy efficient than an electric stove. Same price range as gas or electric, except that one can only use induction cookware. But in a camper van you won’t have a lot of cookware.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks for sharing all this info ❤️ I think I defo need to try someone's some time

[@sueshea3546]

PS: I would keep a spray bottle by the door to wash off mud before putting shoes in the van. Weather permitting, I’d hang them on command hooks on the outside of the van by the door. If wet or smelly sweaty shoes are a problem, stuff them with newspaper to absorb the moisture overnight. I’d also put big silica gel packs inside stored shoes. Lastly, to store shoes I’d hang them on hooks inside too, rather than put them on the floor or in a box w/o air flow.

[@phillyandkeely]

Brilliant ideas

[@JoBeech-t3f]

Curious - the kick board space under kitchen cupboards put in a drawer in that space for shoes. You can still add a pullout part to your bed o that goes over the table for length. Induction is fast to heat water. 🎉that you already have a great build.

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou ❤️ my shoes would definitely fit in theat wee space under kitchen, but not sure about Philly's 😂 but that's a cool idea about adding a drawer in there!

[@CarinaPiersay]

Hiya kiddos!! Keely how is the ankle healing ❤️‍🩹? Philly sleeping in a bed where you can’t fully stretch out would make me crazy 🤪!! It seems like you would be battling to get comfortable all night. So ok… the gas vs electric issue. I will NEVER cook on electric again if I have a choice. I’ve had electric in a couple of places I lived when I was younger. It is horrible! It takes forever to heat up and cool down (I agree it is a hazard ☢️!!). Plus you can’t control the temperature. If something is cooking too hot and you turn the burner down it might get to the right temperature ten minutes later 🙄. I 100% agree with gas! We are finally getting cooler temperatures here in the high desert. The days are lovely and the nights are crispy cool. It’s lovely!! Hope you can get close to Southern California on your trip to the USA 🇺🇸!! A meet and greet would be very cool 😎! Take care of each other… until next week 🌴

[@phillyandkeely]

Thankyou ❤️❤️ we will defo come SoCal, and we would love to meet up 🥰🥰

[@CarinaPiersay]

@@phillyandkeely yesss I would love that!! I will bring my dogs so you can meet them and get some fur baby love 💕

[@ireland_love_life]

On your light, could you install a dimmer switch? But grateful for you guys I’m just at the beginning of my own van build and I agree with everything you have to say thank you☘️

[@phillyandkeely]

Thanks so much, how fun right at the beginning! Now you can learn from our mistakes haha

[@charlie_robin]

put in a dimmer switch for lights! will make them less harsh:)

[@phillyandkeely]

Good shout

[@peterfinch3548]

Game changer for us was getting rid of our cassette toilet and replacing it with a (so called) compost toilet. Life is so much easier now. And, as you said, lithium.

[@phillyandkeely]

Yeah we would defo do 'compost' toilet over cassette in future build, if we had more space I would add one to this van, but the pee bottle and our makeshift emergency toilet has been good enough for almost five years 🤣 I think a future upgrade to an actual toilet seat is well earned 💪

[@keepi9887]

I saw you and heard you and you are so cool. Straight talk i like. Very much helpful information . Thank you

[@phillyandkeely]

Aww thanks so much!