2002 Toyota Sienna Camper Conversion | My Experience!

[@piperreilly97]

I'm 58, have a 2006 Sienna going on the road too. Scared as hell at times. Thanks for sharing.

[@julia_dutra]

Good luck!

[@DP-xb4lp]

Hey Piper, Debbi here😊, really proud of you for taking this brave step outside your comfort zone and just remember that you're not alone on this new chapter of your life. Please keep us posted. 🙏

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I'm 58 as well. I just came across this channel.

[@TheQueenLioness100]

You can do it

[@elizabethmoffett1483]

Volume too low

[@anitasimmons3599]

Thank you for creating this video. You really did a good job with minimal tools. In the future just predrill with a drill bit before you screw in the screws. You can also lubricate the screw with bar soap before screwing them in. I admire your persistence with manual tools. I am so thankful for the power tools I have purchased and used and a father that taught me to use them. I'm older and only part time, but I wish you the best adventure and maybe our paths will cross sometime down the road. Thank you again for creating your videos. Safe travels.

[@discomama66]

Great video. There are no rules to documenting and presenting your experiences. It was all interesting!

[@julia_dutra]

Thank you, I appreciate that! ☺️

[@sarno82]

couple of things - know it is late but, you can avoid splitting wood by drilling pilot holes. And you can avoid stripping screws by using the correct pit and adjusting the torc on the drill. Oh well...keep keepin on

[@johnnamaravelis4093]

I’m at the beginning of your video. You finished staining the floor. You might consider a linoleum remnant (Ollie’s?) which would cover the tape and be a barrier against spills soaking into the wood. I’m excited to see your new home.😊

[@melissalewis8803]

I am doing the same, with the exception I'll be doing extended vacations. Campering up my van over winter. I have researched for 3 years. Purchased everything I needed for the inside. Now to build, paint, sew etc. Finally, everything is in place.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@mironamirona983]

This looks like fun ☺️ I saw you cleaning your window for moist, a tiny crysal air desicator might keep the interior dryer, and mayle less prone to mold? Anyways, I hope you will enjoy your trips and make lots of fun memories🙂🙏🏽

[@julia_dutra]

Thanks for the tip! I'll have to look into that.

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

I don't think that it would collect enough moisture without replacing the dessicating crystals too often which would cost too much. Might be ok for long term non-operational storage like on a boat. Moisture control is probably the number one issue for vanlife. A buddy heater or butane stove will put out a lot of moisture which has to get out the van somehow, and it will freeze on the ceiling and then rain on you later without something like dry heat from diesel heater or wood stove, or efficient air removal with a powered ceiling fan. Even keeping the windows cracked with USB fans works fairly well as the internal and external humidity will eventually equalize. And a good blast of heat every time you drive to drive moisture out of the vehicle.

[@diannarodgers2402]

You did good! Did the big drawer work out? It's much bigger than most vans. Takes up a lot of floor space. Check out Lulu's adventures. Happy trails!

[@julia_dutra]

They're definitely bigger than I first envisioned but it's been working out great so far - no complaints!

[@diannarodgers2402]

@@julia_dutra I used to travel in a small RV and now I'm 67 and wanting to do a van. I love seeing young people not getting tied down with rent and utilities. If you don't have a family why waste that money when you can explore your life.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@oops541]

I like the setup and color of your minivan. It looks nice, tidy, cozy and minimalist. I heard 1st generation Toyota Sienna is smooth, quiet, solid, reliable and built to last.

[@julia_dutra]

Thanks! And yes, we'll see how it holds up in the long run :)

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@michelle7352]

You did a good job, my dear. I was anxious to see because I've had Dodge Grand Caravan, sold it and now looking at different minivans. Toyota, Honda, and Kia are my fave makes, but Gr. Caravan has so much built-in storage. My budget is small so I'll probably let my wallet guide my decision. I was surprised your seats were so easy to take out. Good to know. Good luck on your travels.

[@stoneyrunva]

Been living small for more than 3 years(17ft.). I'm considering going even smaller. Did a ton of research. Probably why I landed here. The Sienna would be the only vehicle I'd take the plunge for. I'm currently looking for a deal on one. Do this with your water jug... kzbin.info/www/bejne/q365h4WQgNiWp6M Love living small. Thanks for sharing. When you swap duct tape colors you know you're all in...lol. Safe travels. Head south, it's getting cold.

[@pamwarner8598]

Great video! To me, this was one of the best videos that I have watched concerning starting Van Life. Definitely saving this!

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@chucktrow8577]

Thank you for sharing the build, look forward to a van tour and maybe seeing daily living full-time in the van? Safe travels and congratulations on full-time van life!!

[@julia_dutra]

Thank you! I'll be doing vlogs, as I usually do, but would love to do a tour at some point, along with daily van living/what it's "really" like videos as well :)

[@zannyorange]

This inspired me to get my van as well and hit the road. I have been so torn between a Sienna or Honda pilot. Just gotta get something and go! Kudos for starting your journey, can't wait to see what you get up to.

[@ekdaufin1485]

You have a home to build in and a place to keep those seats. Wow seats lifted right out. Amazing.

[@BraZillionClicks]

It's awesome to see dreams coming to life! can't wait to watch the next couple of episodes!

[@tracyhager9690]

Happy adventures

[@foretraveler2852]

Super video! I’m excited for you and anxious to watch your adventures! I have a motorhome, but would like to get a van. I’m high school teacher, so I’d like to travel during the summers and or eventually just substitute teach from place to place. So much to see and so many people to encounter! ❤

[@MonicaHernandez-yn8ct]

Why everybody put the bed behind the drivers seat? It's better and safer behind the passenger seat

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside. Also bed is on driver's side too.

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

Looks a identical to my 98 sienna I bought in 1998. I recommend WeatherTech front window inserts (top of front windows on driver side and passenger side)...you can crack the windows up to 3" with no rain getting in, letting the internal humidity equalize with the outside. with those inserts. And it still appears that the windows are closed with the inserts covering the cracks. I also made coroplast (election sign material) window panels in translucent white to snap in, to let light in with full privacy. I have those on my three back windows. They also have a wee insulative value. And a USB fan to bring air into the Sienna. The coroplast panels also reflect light away in sunny weather, perhaps not quite as much as reflectix. Light can get out though. Another idea is using powerful 2" magnet hooks to snap a shower curtain or tarp to the roof to construct awnings over the back door or passenger side sliding door, with tarp poles and lines. I haven't got a Maxxair vent and humidity/condensation has been ok. It's also very easy to remove the passenger front seat to put a fridge or propane tank up there...4 bolts. Much easier than newer siennas. the 98-2002 generation is the best Sienna's in my mind. Nice setup you have. I also hang a lot of stuff from the sides of the celing using lines from the front to the back on each side with carabiners for lighting, fans, thermostat and the like...and drape my side curtains over those lines to cover the windows, which I use mostly instead of the stealth reflectix inserts - a bit more homey. Same with my curtain behind the two front seats draped over a line from one side of the ceiling to the other side, to stealth the back area from the driver compartment. I use a black curtain for that and it can slide to one side when not in use. I also use the magnet hooks to stick on bug net over the outside of the windows, when needed.

[@livingmybestestlife]

Great job on your build. For anyone struggling with destroying their screws, you either need to drill pilot holes first or you need self drilling screws, which are freaking awesome. Without one of those, you're going to strip your screws (not sure if that's the right word for destroying the screw head but I am sure you need pilot holes or self drilling screws. ) 😊

[@TransVangal]

I'm 32 and I live full time the minivan life , love it ❤ goodluck

[@michelebegor4191]

Going good for you. Bungies are a must. Take across so it doesn't change the top where you want nothing because you have a lot. Slide behind foam Insulation. 🎉

[@amymiller6854]

Congratulations on your build and thanks for sharing the process!! Looks like you’ll have some amazing adventures in it!!

[@belindasalinas]

You did a great job! I found you this evening. Have a great time on the road. I am looking forward to your future adventures... a new subscriber here!

[@julia_dutra]

Welcome!! :)

[@billjones6106]

Great video. Thanks for sharing. Looking forward to your adventures.

[@julia_dutra]

Thank you and welcome!! :)

[@martykong3592]

:) WOW! Thanks for sharing! I got a 2012 Sienna a year ago, and plan to use it part time, as I still need back seats for Family transport. the middle seat were very heavy for me to get out, but finally did it and put hem in storage. ALL the BEST and you did SO WELL! CONGRATS and Cheers from Upper Left! :)

[@fishface6247]

I'm also going with a Sienna next year! Such a solid van!

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@fishface6247]

@@Network126 I'll be with you soon. Caught wife cheating. Moving out in a week and living in my Camry until I can get a Sienna or a Prius for climate control

[@jamiewhite665]

Great job! And thank you soooo much for using a tripod or other means of keeping your camera still!!! Traveling Mercies!!!

[@crochetingaroundnewzealand]

Also cut out some holes in your bed base to stop condensation on your mattress.

[@jodyhelton9950]

I have 2011 VW Routan minivan and I’m starting my journey in few months my kids are grown so I am finally doing it after 5 years of dreaming of it

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@Nadia-eo9xi]

I'd love to know why you didn't consider a Dodge Grand Caravan. With the stow and go seating there is far more room than both the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey. The Sienna just curves in at the sides looking very cramped. If you wanted to, you could have a futon style bed, pull out the second row seats and have underlfoor storage too.

[@jjoy7]

I admire you using a handsaw to do your cutting. When using a drill, screwdriver and whatnot, check positioning of your tool. Be sure to have them level & squared up with you project. Verses having then at an angle, which can contribute to rounding out the screw heads

[@ChrisW228]

I did the same thing with shelves… six cubbies in my unit. :)

[@dadjulz7638]

I Love watching you every step of the way you're independent and so down to earth,New subscriber here from Phillipines,Enjoy ur van life more power and God bless ❤

[@laurajphillips]

Best of luck to you! Your doing great, I look forward to your adventures! ❤

[@LincolnLagger]

I did a Tacoma for several years. You have so much room!

[@EveryBitOfBree]

Small pockets big world lol I love it ! Hey girl

[@ginabrandt6168]

Why didn't you finish the wood on your bed? Dirt, mold, bugs will ruin it. And a van is not a car.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@ke1161]

Can I travel with you !!😆

[@gladdheart3030]

Love your easy setup. Both my daughter and i camp in our Siennas!

[@missirritated4872]

Great video I'm glad I found it. Homeless here in Indiana I need all the idea I can get.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@michaeldurkin8659]

Should be a great van for you!

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@JordanJSparks]

damn! that is VERY well maintained for a 2002

[@adamdunn5520]

Love this .. as trying ideas for my van for when i finish converting :) thanks

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@jaredbryant8297]

Take care of that van, it’s one of the best vehicles ever built, the first generation sienna.

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

I agree. My 98 Sienna is running well, only problem is catalytic converter check engine light is stuck on...they say "just keep driving it", and we don't require emissions testing in this part of British Columbia.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@laviebanale]

How do you keep warm while sleeping?

[@julia_dutra]

Most nights so far have been around 40-50s and I haven't had any problems staying warm! I think it's because 1) my window covers are made from reflectix, which helps with insulation, 2) I layer up (sweater, socks/fuzzy socks, long pants), and 3) I use a comforter and extra blanket when I sleep.

[@laviebanale]

@@julia_dutra Thank you. I learned so much from watching videos like yours on KZbin. Keep up the interesting videos.

[@jessicapalmer346]

I'm so glad I found your channel! I love watching these videos they bring me so much peace. What do you use to record and what software? Love your editing vibessss

[@julia_dutra]

Omg thank you!! I literally just use my phone (iPhone 13 Mini) for most clips, GoPro, and a super old Nikon camera for some shots haha. Would love to upgrade! And as for editing, I just started using Davinci Resolve (I'd prefer Adobe Premiere but Resolve is free) and have been finding it super easy to learn!

[@deborahsensenbach7384]

Great job ... you did so good ! I want to see how your trip go and life in the van!

[@alanrobisonPD1960]

Love all the work you’ve done, you’re such a go getter. Love your Chanel, keep them coming. Greetings from Southern California.

[@chacharya2851]

The max minimalistic u can be, great superb❤

[@JavierBonillaC]

Can you do a video of just you talking for like 1 hour? The same but without the music…. Your voice is so soothing and I have trouble sleeping. You can just read a newspaper or the signs on the road, but slowly…. Thank you. I hope you have great adventures!

[@thelifestyleof_x]

Omg…. Do you live in va? We should link. I’m doing bus life in northern va. Starting a KZbin channel soon!

[@malikaeastonAllahfirstanfamily]

Your did a really great job, looks amazing. Your home have a couple looks like your lights, stay safe enjoy

[@MAGA_EXTREM1ST]

I hope for your sake that if that thing has over 150 200k on it that the passenger axle carrier isnt seized. Or that the axles were changed before you got it lol. What a major pain in the buttocks

[@timothygouldjr8384]

I’m prefer Honda odyssey’s since I am a Honda person. If I got a Toyota sienna, I’d rather get a 2004 or newer bc the rear seats fold down

[@crochetingaroundnewzealand]

Screw holes first and then screw the screws in. Nice build. Looks great.

[@chacharya2851]

Sweet simple easily movable space and tidy ❤

[@vickilindberg6336]

The ash tray is great for Aldi quarters & toll road change. Beautiful interior color. Good luck.

[@everydayfun654]

Its a good idea toyota sienna is very reliable car but anyway It's old car make sure mechanical healthy before going long trip

[@JuicyAdelia]

Thank you very much for your video! Conversation looks great!

[@starvingrtist8714]

Hey I'm planning to build a very similar layout in my Sienna too. May I ask what are your widest and the narrowest widths of the bed?

[@julia_dutra]

It's 71.5" long and then for the width: the top part is 30" and the bottom, where it narrows a bit, is 25"!

[@starvingrtist8714]

@@julia_dutra thank you!

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@starvingrtist8714]

@@Network126 that sounds good, and probably all you need. Sadly the newest generation Sienna have CRAZY uneven floors that require a floor build.

[@luciac.419]

You did a good job. Stay safe & happy travels 😊

[@Danushia101]

I just bought a van and decided to build my bed behind the passenger side as I intend to engage in some 'stealth' overnight parking. I considered that if hit by another vehicle on the road I would be safer sleeping behind the passenger seat.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@danijohnson1038]

I am thinking of doing van life too. I start work up today again and have a business that I run. So I would need to take that with me.

[@georgiajohnson435]

Delighted watch. Good to see ur persistence. It is the journey that counts.

[@josiahagrantcom]

Is this what it sounds like when you start the van? kzbin.info/www/bejne/fYTTpIywaqiHabs

[@reginasouza-pm9pg]

Júlia Amei, você é muito corajosa . Sucesso na sua viagem. Vai dar tudo certo. ❤🥰🥰

[@marcethier7022]

2020 Kia Sedona Is A second great Choice 👍👍

[@DACATRANSPORT]

My future wife, Julia Camacho to be! Cheers to my sogrinha Rosangela! Bjos amor!!!❤

[@julia_dutra]

😙

[@barrypierce9100]

I have a 2000 4 runner and its great.

[@Network126]

I'm homeless in a 2000 Sienna in Los Angeles. No wooden floor, but has a rubber floor mat, and a 100w solar panel connected to a 12v AGM battery inside.

[@scubaval08]

Your van looks nice but you’ll probably make lots of adjustments along your journey. May I ask why you decided to try vanlife? Are you going full time or extended trips? I’m in prep stages myself and have definitive reasons for my anticipated journey.

[@julia_dutra]

It's something I've been interested in for a few years now. I always expected to do it farther in the future, but things worked out now for it to happen. So, here we are! I'm diving in full-time, already finishing up my first week in the minivan. Good luck on your own journey and reach out if you have any other questions!

[@johnreber4136]

You did great! Your new home looks really nice. I'm planning on getting a Sienna or Odyssey in the next few months and heading out full-time as well. See you out there!

[@julia_dutra]

Good luck!

[@DmitriyDay]

молодец! отличный дом на колесах, мечта! удачи и успехов тебе =)

[@ms.neevaedwards1667]

I had to laugh when I saw this video because she did exactly the same thing I would have done had I purchased this van! CLEAN IT! however, you cant open your drawers, and this is where i changed the video

[@julia_dutra]

Haha cleaning is so important! 😂 The top bins come out easily and the bottom ones are easy to reach into :)

[@TC-vq6yz]

Julia, your channel was just suggested to my feed. You seem pleasant, but I can't hear much of what you say. After pursuing a few other videos it seems to be your habit to speak softly. Suggest you mic up or speak from the diaphragm. Simply cannot subscribe when it takes so much effort to hear you. Sorry.

[@julia_dutra]

Thanks for the feedback! Always looking to improve my videos, this truly helps

[@ekdaufin1485]

All that help ! Wow!

[@StukHere2]

Widowed female 71. My son just gave me his 2001 Toyota Sienna XLE. Back seats out, CarPlay with camera installed. Debating on pulling front passenger seat out for more room. Ideas or suggestions? Anyone? Lol Excited and scared at the same time.

[@julia_dutra]

I'm sorry for your loss.. I haven't heard of anyone taking out the passenger seat but it could be doable! Good luck in your journey :)

[@serenityjewel]

Take it out of you don't need it. If you keep it, maybe turn it around for better seating. The KZbinr Minivan Lee took her passenger seat out of her minivan and so did Brooke (I think her channel is Brooke and Pippa). Brooke is in an RV now but she has a ton of videos from when she was in her minivan.

[@marinatrofimova9974]

What is the purpose of the bed frame that you connected to the floor? The post can be connected directly to the floor , it would safe you some inches in height

[@julia_dutra]

Storage underneath for my clothes!

[@sandramurphy1931]

Have FUN ❤

[@tylersnead7639]

How much did you pay for your van ?

[@alouluna]

How about drawers for ur clothes?

[@Stayfocused1984]

It was a great video, subbed

[@MANZANOADRIAN]

how much did hte van cost

[@karronlaneNOLA]

would it be okay to put the bed on the opposite wall of the van? i'm thinking of doing this with my 2002 sienna and would like to know if there's a reason not to put it on the other side? thanks. good job.

[@julia_dutra]

Some people do put the bed on the other side! I think it's all up to personal preference :)

[@serenityjewel]

If you're going to be parking on the street, I suggest putting your bed on the curb side. If you're car gets side swiped, you don't want to be on that side of the car sleeping.

[@larryhunter8245]

Very nice build! Well done.

[@FourHuskyHomestead]

I have a Honda odyssey. I’m on my second one. But my first had nothing wrong with it. I just upgraded. But I loved my old van. I bought it brand new in December with a big red ribbon on it. I drove all the kids to school in it and it was hard to let go. Lots of memories. My new upgraded Honda odyssey was not new but it’s nicer. Leather sunroof dvd player. I want a class B or a mini bus. The stain look nice. You did it !

[@veracardoso6414]

I loved😂❤ Julia go go go🎉❤😅

[@awfvgksqawfgkdq]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@richardgrena3186]

super cool

[@susanstrickland6774]

Nice job 👍

[@sleeks9939]

Will you be my pin pal? 😊

[@956bucks]

To be young and living van life 😀❤️ enjoy the moment and thank you for allowing us to live vicariously through your adventures

[@javiev]

Thanks a lot for your video... !! un abrazo desde Patagonia, Chile

[@Em.D727]

I srsly used to think that you needed stuff like a drill or a saw to get out the seats 😂

[@julia_dutra]

Same! Haha

[@teresaforsyth6185]

Go Hokies!

[@cvisconti4568]

You didn’t insulate the inside?

[@serenityjewel]

Minivans already have insulation in the floor and wall. With the space being as limited as it is, there's no reason to lose even more room with additional insulation. Cargo vans don't have any insulation so they need to be insulated.

[@Stayfocused1984]

can you give more info on that jug?

[@julia_dutra]

Got it from Walmart! Search up 7 gallon jug on their website :)

[@onlyinparadise4613]

Great job and good luck with your new journeys 👍