No Build MiniVan Camper

[@LuciusCarrollIII]

Bob Wells is going to want to know where you use the bathroom 😂✌🏼Excited about the new rig!

[@AdventureVanMan]

Same fold up toilet seat I've been using for years.

[@BlackBuzzzard]

Its a darn good question to ask. Too many out there do just what you think where they shouldn't.

[@adventurebythemile]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@BucketShttersAnonymous]

👀

[@helenbugsynelson]

Lol 🤣🤷‍♀️😎

[@kiwivanman9035]

Love your van builds Brain, You inspired me to build my first campervan, I have built over 130 stealth campervans and Im running my own campervan manufacturing bisiness for the last 7years so I need to say thank you for the inspiration, All the best for 2025 Brian, William.

[@andreavin3674]

I am probably the only person who is super excited to see the steel barrier. I find most van lifers are not prepared for a high impact collision with all these propane tanks and battery banks hanging about.

[@DamonVagabond]

I was looking for the steel wall to add to my Astro. I like being able to get to the back with ease though.

[@andreavin3674]

@ I can see that being problematic, plus it makes the space look smaller. But I do believe the pros outweigh the cons.

[@trishrobbins9942]

You are right. I keep heavy stuff away from the driving area. I’d put the floor jack under the cot.😊

[@MyFriendlyPup]

Subbed since 1st van. Love the channel. Love the dude. May God keep your path safe and straight my guy! Love the humble reset.

[@s4medlyn]

Knowing when to move on with your life is the game changer

[@nancylagoyda5337]

I agree with you it is easier to travel light. I car camp in my GMC Acadia. It is amazing how you can get along fine with a few items. I do have a pop up tent for changing and toileting. Not bad for a 75 year old on my own. Enjoy your adventures.

[@faridfarid6561]

How do you stay warm in the winter?

[@nancylagoyda5337]

@ Mr Buddy Heater

[@SilverTurtle65]

Van looks awesome. The only change I would make would be having my pillow behind the drivers seat for sleeping position just in case you get rear ended while sleeping I would rather have my feet take any impact vs hy head. Safe travels.

[@DamonVagabond]

I switch back and forth.

[@HannaloreJohnson]

I got some great magnetic lights at Harbor Fraight! Battery operated, and goodness it is so bright! I can see the whole back of a 170 WB sprinter van! I put just 1 above the bed, and will need to get another one to go by the back doors, forgot to get it when I cleaned out for medical leave and van went back to owner! Yeah, I'm a OTR EXPEDITION Driver, and the owner now has it in his semi, said it definitely lights up the bunk area nicely!! But the 1 I did get, was so handy when power went out and I needed to finish making dinner, it lite up the kitchen area perfect!!

[@sunnyrivers]

Love the simplicity Brian. Cool little van for sure😊👏🏼

[@paulbetka6477]

👍🏻 simple simple Simple Brian's the man. 🫡🇺🇸🙏🏻✌🏻✌🏻✌🏻✌🏻

[@thebeardedphotographer1595]

Stick some of those glow in the dark stars to the ceiling, really get the feeling of looking at the sky. Awesome video. Really shows that you can get by with a minimal setup. Hoping to be out on the road once my daughter graduates in 2 years. Safe travels!

[@ripvanrevs]

I've peeled bunches of those off the ceilings of my rental properties!

[@leannnewton1]

I love it! Simple and functional. Not cluttered at all in such a small space

[@daneboro6847]

Nice simple setup👍

[@gregkendall3559]

From our experience, it's important to have an insulation layer in/on the cot. We nearly froze to death as our cots had no insulation and you are just hanging in the cold air on that cot as opposed to what you were on in the box truck. Your blanket and foam mattress might be enough. You will know when it gets cold! Nice setup Brian!

[@ripvanrevs]

I sleep on old couch cushions elevated like that. I have a comforter underneath me for warmth and to hold the cushions together. Never cold from underneath. That's a good tip.

[@DamonVagabond]

I'm glad I insulated my whole van. So much of a difference. It's a tin can with wheels and gets really cold but the heater gets it hot quick.

[@myvanlife1]

Less is more and simple is better in my opinion too!

[@nanvaughn2258]

Love our 2005 Chevy Astro. We built it out in 2018 after putting a new engine in it. We have a built in pull out bed, solar, diesel heater and awning room for privacy and keeps us warmer at night. Love your channel.

[@mobiltec]

Brian you can buy little glow in the dark Stars, Planets, Galaxies and moons that pin to the ceiling when you get the blue foam up there. Looks really neat in the dark. Sold normally for childrens rooms. Love what you've done with the mini van.

[@AdventureVanMan]

Great idea!👍🏼

[@drjitters]

"keep it light and simple," -- that's a good philosophy and practice!

[@4yellowwolf]

It reminds me of the first van you set up to hit the road. 💕

[@thizizliz]

Wow - starting over so to speak. Sometimes things we THINK we need, end up complicating our lives. This should allow you to re-evaluate what you really need and what allows the fun we all need to enjoy life. Woot.

[@TrickShot1100]

The van arrangement is a good practical way to go. I also have a canvas cot in my Frontier camper. Way...way better than trying to sleep on wood!

[@NoFate247]

Loving these videos! Keep us posted as the adventure continues

[@davechristensen3167]

I love our clam”gazebo “ with our teardrop set up.

[@ncdean62]

A very simple build Brian. But, you've put a lot of thought and quality components into it. I still think your box truck is amazing. I understand we all need a change now and then...

[@duane4972]

Hi Brian, great to see the refrigerator back in use, I always had it set on 25°f, hope it gives you plenty of service. Works good with the freezer packs in in rotation in a regular cooler. I'll throw my airbrush in the Jeep and make you some clouds in your sky/ceiling next time I see you. Maybe a sunrise or sunset on your upper walls. I'm in process of building the Jeep out now, minimalist style, have all the parts, ready to get some plywood and make the sleeping platform storage cubbies. I'm getting the itchy feet too ! Happy Trails y'all !

[@dustysadventures]

The van is looking good! Can’t wait to see where you take it!

[@quinnedwards3727]

Loving how simple this is! I have the same two Bluetti set up and 200W panel in my Toyota Rav4. No space for me to bring my bike or guitar, though. I make up for it by bringing my knitting and crocheting supplies, lol. Can't wait to see the final setup! ✌️

[@annm7153]

My van has a similar divider wall. I cut a sheet of magnet on the roll to fit the opening. It covers the holes and I just peel it off and stick it down lower on the divider when I don’t need privacy. Love the back to basics idea.

[@jimsteele7108]

The backpacker philosophy is coming out of you, Brian. “Simple and light”

[@Chris-ut6eq]

Da..da..da..da..da..da...dah, AstroVanMan! Great way to relax on a sunday.

[@21cascadia]

I didn’t see a towel in there. “If you want to survive out here, you’ve got to know where your towel is.” Don’t Panic! 👍🏼

[@AdventureVanMan]

It's always at an arms reach. I keep my handbook handy as well😉👍🏼

[@vondutch666]

@@AdventureVanMan You're living right , good sir. take care

[@RickRose]

This is a great concept/project. Looking forward to seeing you put it to use. Thanks for sharing!

[@SonyaBayham]

Getting all things set up. Cooking outside makes everything taste better. Fresh air, not left over food smells. Looks good. 😊

[@crackerjack6075]

I'm very excited for you. Also from San Diego, enjoying Fiesta Island this week/month. I watched your No-Build Build and envy you have the cargo/driver bulkhead to keep items coming forward (ballistic) in the event of even harsh braking. So I was still building some unfounded anxiety, until at 9:00 you reinforced there will be adequate securing - restraints for van contents. I have the restraints, but I don't yet have he bulkhead. I'm also keen to build-up the driver-side wall, as my bedding/couch also run along that wall. A little paranoid, I don't like the idea of parking on the curb at night, but that thin wall is between me and crazy drivers. So I installed wall holders for my traction recovery boards and also insulated with an 8" thick mattress. My head and trunk are now 1 foot away from the metal. Oh, in a crash I'll still get messed-up, but next I can rig into a handicapped van LoL

[@MediaBrockman]

I think your set up is great Brain. You have made it to suit your needs. I hope you find happiness and peaceful living on the road again. 😊

[@johntricola4746]

Love this going back to basics! Mr. Bob is doing it too, kinda. Every other nomad I've followed the last 8 years have all "upgraded" to much larger rigs.

[@kenblum4840]

I never thought about using blue foam pad in that way. That makes sense. I bet it's good for sound deadening, too.

[@Seajunkie]

Well that set up makes living out of a Tacoma much more doable ( I was trying to think of how not to tap into the truck power system.) Im loving the simplicity of your new set up

[@poges]

Way to go Brian. Back to basics.

[@danniedamour4397]

Sweet setup … love the adapter to the fan to plug in when needed . Simple is always a great feeling too! 💕

[@gmaneis]

All my positive thoughts about this excellent almost-no-build are in the other comments, but what the heck, I HAD to type something, so here goes: You're amazing, Brian! Thanks for sharing. 😁

[@richardthomas1743]

"And away we go" !! Looking good Brian, simple yet effective!

[@vanlifemeow]

lookin good! nice and organized.

[@AdventureVanMan]

Thanks man!👍🏼✌🏼

[@desertdog2282]

Man that is a pretty thorough equipment list. Thanks for sharing.

[@kimprocarione5473]

I love the way you are going about sharing setting up the Astro!

[@RichardHarlos]

Really admire the practical simplicity of your arrangement. Commenting for the channel/algorithm. Cheers!

[@MI-me3pt]

Getting back to basics, I love it!! This goes to show that you really don’t need much to get out there and enjoy life. Great job! Reminds me of your old dodge van.

[@eijiinmotion]

Great ‘new start’ and nice for us seasonal or weekend camper van dreamers. Also nice to see what could be done with just a rental van.

[@Garseraph]

Clean, cozy, & neat- looks great, Brian! 😊

[@mntman603]

Cool setup. Had my cot in the same place. Once my bed went in, everything else found a home. Had a 93 astro van.

[@eugottabekiddin3772]

Looking good!

[@bonniepwtf]

I'm really enjoying this new adventure. I outfitted my minivan several years ago very simply for weekend camping. To see you going from "having it all" to this is so interesting as to what all you're choosing. The adventure continues.....✌️♥️

[@josephlwallssr6166]

Thank you Brian! Pretty neat van set up, you have years of experience to know and understand what you need ! Not bad! Looking forward to see how your new home metamorphics🙂 into your next adventure!

[@docgannon]

Great now I want an Astro van😊

[@drgranger2]

Looking good Brian! It's going to be interesting to see whether the bigger rig and more comfort or the little fast scoot shooter is the way to go. Never a dull moment!

[@Onemattressatatime]

I like your weekender house at the lake. Safe and healthy travels

[@juanesebuitrago4040]

This is looking great! There is much more room than I thought there would be.

[@jbrat1967]

I’ve often thought of stowing a proper floor jack. Great idea. I’m gonna do same

[@iliff4249]

When you get your knickknacks, don’t forget your patty whacks

[@WandaHopewandering]

Love the kokopeli throw. Looks really comfortable.

[@TRONA-CA]

Nebo lights with 2 magnets, clip, & hook - rechargeable, well made, works really well.

[@rajanikumari3672]

Nice little setup. Gotta be honest, took me a ridiculously long time to figure out what the heck a pfd was.😂😂

[@3generations393]

I'm so excited for you Brian. This set up is exactly what I aspire for myself & Little One 🐾 I do have some debt to pay off then I will be looking for a commercial van. My minivan only gets 12-16 mpg and has NO ground clearance. Thank you so much for filming this very inspirational set up. Safe travels and may God bless Sendin Grandmama love ❌⭕, Iris and Little One 👋🐾

[@louparry7721]

hi Brian. It's amazing to me how much you were able to fit into your van. Best of Luck in your travels. your friend, Louise

[@snug40pip]

Another awesome video! Psychologically I find it very interesting to remove comfort needs, and go to simplicity to cut down on stress and be able to relax. When you fixed up that box truck so well I thought that would bring stress down. Looking forward to another awesome video. God bless you. Safe travels love from Northern Colorado.

[@caraoosterhouse7348]

Looks great Brian. Can't wait to see the adventures in your new setup!

[@jackturtle131]

So nice that you can stand in that new van, It must be way better than the box van

[@MrMinimalst]

The van is a low roof so Brian is not standing in it.

[@knutblaise9437]

Love this simplistic build. An inexpensive Harbor Freight cargo tray and lockable box would be a great addition to store items not regularly accessed like the paddleboard, jack, and clam shelter to make room for food/clothing storage. In a future video, it would be great to see how you will keep the battery charged; it appears you'll be depending upon the fold-up solar panel for that. Enjoy the road!

[@pattibrotz3684]

Can you get to the driver’s seat from the back without going outside? Would be nice if you could for emergencies. Great job with keeping it simple. Can’t wait to see your next adventure.✌️

[@AdventureVanMan]

Yes there is a little door to pass through.

[@tomrobinson9893]

I’m glad you are going back to basics. More fun that way!

[@gsp49]

I'm using the same bed in my Odyssey. Amazing the storage underneath them! I have the same exact Bluetti power station set up too.

[@AmusedDaffodils-mz5rw]

That's a cool little setup I like it

[@susanstrickland6774]

Main things needed are all accounted for. Like the Ridge cot. 🙂👍

[@scottthejeepguy7499]

I like the set up, safe travels. Away we go.

[@TerryWindell]

From a previous Astro van owner - please be careful. If you ever have to make an abrupt "panic stop" everything not bolted down is gonna turn into a missle pointing straight at your head. Glad you're gonna strap that stuff down...

[@buckman840]

definitely a KISS Van!

[@miller4057]

This is getting me excited!!!

[@charlagarth926]

Hah. I’ve got three Bluettis now. Love them.

[@sunnyla2835]

Nice! I did two years full time in a van without heat (brrrr) and wo refrigeration, so nice to see your easy setup that I can duplicate if I ever get out there again.👍❣️happy trails

[@Thisthingcalledlifeis]

Simplicity, more fun less stress...I have 3 Luci lights use at a time (leave a spare for emergency). Will give all the light I need for days.😊

[@AndyKlevorn]

Looking great Brian.

[@TRountree54]

Looking forward to seeing your first video in this van 👍 Happy Trails

[@goodcitizen4587]

Very cool. A shorter van like that will fit in a lot more garages, which can be handy.

[@seanworsfold]

Looks great! Is there a pass through to the front on this one?

[@AdventureVanMan]

yes, nice little hinged door.

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

Cant wait to see where you go!

[@jamesleavy128]

Looks good safe travels!

[@stevec2665]

Anxious to hear more about the Wave 3 heater.

[@delmarrosa8596]

Looks awesome! This will definitely be an adventure van!

[@bevn362]

You have thought this out really well…everything you need and lacking nothing useful once you get the thrift store finds. Looking forward to the next video🎥👏🏼👏🏼

[@melissaa.7970]

Would love to meet you before you left town and loving the new rig!

[@stratos175escape7]

You will be living at its finest.

[@bgrider-jv7sy]

Nice Brian. I have the same cot and use u-bolts to tie it to the seat rails of my Chevy Express. I found the small pad sufficient for 2 month trips, but adding a foam mattress on top looks like a good idea for longer trips.

[@vickiequigley5278]

Nice set up Brian. I do love keeping it simple. Why i love our blue chev express conversion van! Stay safe & warm!

[@michaeltablet8577]

Excelket video! Simpler is better. I camp in an 05 Sprinter and only a few days a month. A fellow camper looked at my tools and asked me if I was a traveling repair shop. I've got to simplify my van.

[@johnnesheim7719]

Nice setup, Brian. Your years of experience in living in small mobile spaces is really paying off for you now. I look forward to traveling vicariously through your videos. Best of luck!

[@lifehunter6426]

I have that exact maxxair. I HIGHLY SUGGEST that you remove the circuit board and spray it with some kind of electronic moisture barrier on it or paint it with clear nail polish. Those circuit boards do not hold up to moisture and a new one is quite pricey. I have 2 of those fans in my rig and one went bad. I used nail polish on the good one and haven't had any issues with it. When they go bad, they get a mind of their own and turn on and off whenever they feel like it. There are videos on KZbin about it.

[@Tyler77573]

Pretty sweet!

[@guidok3762]

Great set up, nice to see that your Mountainbike is ninths VAN. Greetings from the Netherlands

[@bafergs]

Van is looking good. Love how you can put together such a simple and easy living space. Looking forward to where your travels take you next.

[@SolipsisticElixir]

That blanket is boss, kokopelli all over the place

[@Manitou36]

Sweet and simple set up Brian, thanks for sharing your journey, been watching for years, if you make it to Michigan this summer, let me know, I have 5 acres if you need to Boondock for a few days 😎✌️