Vent Shade Install & Back Up Food Storage??

[@RicG.]

Wow - 5 years in the box van! If you would've asked me how long you'd been in it, I would've guessed 2, maybe 3 years. Time flies......LOL

[@poges]

I think we started following you when you were building your box van. Way to embrace change.

[@Old_Dans_Travels]

Another reason to keep food down low: It lowers the center of gravity of the van, which gives the van a more stable and safer ride. Keep up your informative videos, Brian.

[@dianepines9014]

Thanks for showing us the install and your thought process on downsizing! Another lefty!👏🏼

[@AdventureVanMan]

Lefty's do it right!!😁

[@CrankyBubushka]

@@AdventureVanMan they sure do! lefty here :)

[@snowbirdlady7221]

Lefty here too! We have to stick together. The world has many challenges for us.

[@clarkleakins879]

Lefty, always in the right mind!

[@Trailhoss21]

Left is the best!

[@adventurouskari6018]

Love the vent shades. A must for any van or car you are camping in.

[@kimlittleton4943]

Goodness.....5 years in the box van. Geez time flies. It seems like you just picked that van up. Lordy I am getting old because time just speeds by. Glad you are doing something a little different for yourself. Because we all get in a rut, and changing things up is a good thing. Looking forward to more great videos.

[@allonesame6467]

Blessings on your new adventure, Brian! Away We Go!

[@AdventureVanMan]

Thank you!

[@garyturnage8987]

Brian, I started watching your videos back in your Dodge Van days. Being a Dodge Van fan and owner myself, that is what originally got me interested in your channel. Then I got to know you through your travels, jobs, and ups and downs, and admire you very much for who you are. Gone are your Dodge Van days, but I'm still here and enjoying all of the content that you share with us all. Thanks for taking us along with you wherever you go. Safe travels, and enjoy the downsizing you'll experience in the Astro Van. Sometimes simpler is better.

[@quinnedwards3727]

When I turned my Rav4 into a mini camper, I had soooo much food, too! Those cans weighed a lot! I really love camping in the Rav4 because the gas mileage is great. My only issue, as a woman, is using the bathroom inside at night, lol. 🫣 I'm super excited to see your new build. You always have such good ideas! See you in the next video! ✌️

[@rickm8456]

I enjoyed the video Brian, thanks for sharing your reorganization. I’m looking up that salsa mix right now!

[@DanielCarpenterLightMan]

Yeah. That salsa mix looks good.

[@dummkopf2383]

You definitely need good ventilation with all those beans.

[@sloburnnn]

😂😂

[@sallydansereau1270]

It’s always good to declutter and regroup 👍. We have a van, don’t live in it but travel in it. It is surprising how much stuff you accumulate bit by bit. Feels good to lighten up.

[@RickRose]

The box van seemed perfect to me, but I'm sure you'll enjoy the adventure of going even more minimal. Thanks for sharing!

[@jbrat1967]

I get it. I do a Honda ruckus scooter on a harbor fright hitch cargo carrier which folds upright when scooter is off loaded. Absolutely love it. I call my scooter my dinghy (as in sailing)

[@hikewithme59]

Hi Brian, I’ve been with you all along the years…you have had so many amazing adventures and I’m so excited for this new van adventure! I’m organizing my van right now too because I got a new table for cooking and it has storage…no more keeping my kitchen in a tote. Can’t wait for the next video!! Cheers Hike 🌵✌🏼

[@SonyaBayham]

The pandemic made us preppers. Extra food, clothes, etc. Smart, not hoarding. 😊

[@tikoy1955]

Makes sense on storing food down low.

[@Chris-ut6eq]

👍 👍 Can we call you AstroVanMan now? 🤔🥸🤓

[@TheCulebra28]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣👍

[@thomasking4136]

I think your food stash is prudent. Given your step to downsize, shrinking the food stash accordingly is also prudent. Your actions are well thought out and measured accordingly. For the most part, the 4.3 v6 and L460e transmission combo is pretty good. Tranny will last a long time if you keep the fluid changed regularly. Looking forward to your coming adventures.

[@h.a.barker412]

😂😃😄

[@janinthe80s]

Enjoy the Spring Cleaning! It feels good!

[@eddymahon1503]

I like it😂👍

[@billiebluesheepie2907]

I would definitely recommend keeping a couple of weeks worth of long life food in hand, you never know what’s around the corner - I broke my hip last year, and they replaced it with a metal one, which kept dislocating and I wasn’t able to leave home for about three months (even crawling about was agony, and there was no way I could stand) I was extremely lucky that I had enough tinned foods and grains that I didn’t have to worry about trying to get out to find food.

[@charlagarth926]

I remember how Happy you were to be able to stand up in y 0:10 0:10 our new cargo trailer. I’ve been around for a while. 👍 I think what you are doing is something we all need to do every 5 years. Stuff gets heavy…not just in pounds.

[@mariawatson4171]

Every 4-6 months I grab a bag and put things I find in cabinets etc and when it's full I hold on to it for a few extra weeks if I don't pull anything out off to Goodwill it goes. If it's food then a food pantry or neighbors if they want it. I do this seasonally so it doesn't build up....very manageable. I have lived in an RV the last 10 years.

[@richardwill935]

Again, like with all your videos, your courage and intelligent practicality is inspiring!

[@73geisha]

Love the spring cleaning and minimalizing! Keep going!

[@robinheil]

Very interesting, Brian. It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to share your life in such detail; just know it is much appreciated.

[@hollybruns4077]

I really appreciate the window shade information.

[@RVingwithG]

😮😂 Bro, I’m still with you. I have three times that much food in my RV and Trailer.

[@AdventureVanMan]

Now I know who to find when I’m hungry!🤣

[@MySonsMother]

Me, too, in a minivan. I’m crowded, but I had prepper food in storage and no money.

[@vanlifemeow]

"im on the dines big time" lol love it. i like your blanket too 😺

[@dannycrooks8462]

Love this back to basics style 👌

[@mkwilson38]

So interesting that you’re doing this change / experiment. Looking forward to hearing more about it 👍

[@christineh4782]

Thank you Brian for another informative video. It was good to see you smile about who bought your trailer and the couple that bought the bike. I wish them safe travels to and from. Your videos are drama free, information packed, with good scenery, and fun things along with your sense of humor.

[@JeffeysMom]

I have a ton more food. Always good to be prepared. 👍🏻

[@journeyswithlittletpage1669]

Being able to switch lanes is what freedom is about. A truck camper might be something to think about. 🧘✌️

[@CrystalCanyon100]

Great update. I’ve always wanted to add those window vent covers. Looks straight forward. Love your updates keep on rocking

[@myfunart]

I've been following you for a few years now and (of course) will continue to follow you for a few more years. It's funny how both you and Bob Wells are both going smaller on your new homes at the same time. Must be something in the water. lol

[@joinjen3854]

Gas prices.

[@caledgerton]

May I ask you, Brian, where did you get your Kokopelli blanket? Also, Your transition to an even more minimal life is very interesting. Bob Wells is doing the same thing. I appreciate you sharing your adventures with us.

[@AdventureVanMan]

Thank you. The blanket is from Los Algodones, Mexico...the little tourist town at the Yuma, AZ border crossing.

[@bonniepwtf]

My cupboard in my apartment kitchen is jam packed, lots of cans (no longer needed c0vid mindset), I need to do just what you're doing. Can't wait for the next step in your preparation.✌️😁

[@NorthWoodsDumpsterRental]

I've been watching you for years now and I love the new content with the new van! It's so exciting!

[@LoOnTheGo]

Haha, I live in my minivan Brian, and yes, you have a lot of stuff. I have followed you from your beginning. You have been inspiring. I look forward to your journey. I have no desire to go bigger. I love the freedom small gives me and I am an extreme minimalist.

[@lazaboutit]

Thank you for sharing your adventures with us. I appreciate that you are sharing your process of regrouping and decluttering. I'm trying to do the same and it is in inspiration when I watch your videos thank you big dog

[@anneyday3493]

Based on this video, I just suggested these to a van dwelling friend of mine. She had never heard of these. Thanks Brian!!!

[@jimrodda]

Brian, we collect stuff we never use, but it's like the old saying ' it's better to have and don't need than need and don't have ' and it's better to keep tinned goods lower down because of the weight issue not only the heat. 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@keepamericayisraelgreat5708]

WOW!!! once again Spring time is in 3 months , good to see that everything is well with you.

[@vicO1323]

Hope you don't miss the head height too much. Happy trails Brian.

[@DamonVagabond]

It's crazy how much of a difference the window shades make. I made the same decision and happy about it. More adventures await. Thanks again man.

[@metaglypto]

Watching your's and others videos, coupled with my own experiences just confirms to me that there will never be such a thing as the 'perfect setup'. Life happens, and you just have to keep putting one foot in front of the other. So, "Away we go!"

[@goose2die4]

I put them on my van . . . Great addition !

[@Sonofsun001]

The best way to travel is light as possible taking only things that you are going to use, nice to see you get rid of the trailer and motorbike. Looking forward to the new adventure.

[@bradleysmith3963]

I can’t believe it’s almost been 5 years in the box van either!

[@slyborg1]

Fun to watch. Training for van life for us.

[@louparry7721]

Hi Brian, Im happy that things seem to be moving along quite well. Those shields that you put on your new van look really nice. I'm sure you will benefit by having them. take care, and god bless, your friend, Louise

[@positivelyhappy.9876]

Food looks like a nice selection

[@chebar.]

Here for it, sounds fun!

[@jaystewart9947]

Looking forward to see where you take us Brian. We can sure collect stuff, can’t we? My dad used to say that we can get to a place where, “we don’t own stuff, stuff owns us”. I think you’re there with how you’re feeling and what you’re doing. Thanks for sharing

[@Lars.442]

Thanks Brian for trying out a more basic van setup, will be interesting to follow.

[@pjbear8656]

Hey Brian! I had the same window vents installed on my Tacoma. I Love them. ❤

[@PETER-rj4he]

Greetings Sir,..thy inner man is growing...you have lost nothing, but gained much wisdom, value of thy own heart/path...glad you back to shinning again..peace 😎

[@aggressivemediocrity]

I'm looking forward to the new adventures you're getting ready for. Also, I love the asto van.. should be a rock solid platform for a build and traveling.

[@tomcaldwell5750]

I feel your pain, Brian. I am the same way, If I have the open space I will full it with stuff a may need. But, don’t use a majority of the stuff. Just like to stuff I used to accumulate when I was living in a house. We often justify our need to hoard stuff. So, once or twice a year it’s good to get rid of stuff not being used. Give it way, donate or sell. ✌️ peace.

[@Dancinbear1995]

Nature abhors a vacuum...

[@kitaoden703]

Congratulations on the sale 🎈 the excitement is real !!no ☕ ✌🏼 I'm thinking of getting window shades

[@TrickShot1100]

I put the AVS wind/rain guards on my Frontier too. Real nice to have. (not too expensive)

[@freedomdove]

I love my AVS outside-mount shields. It's a must-have, IMO. I did all four windows of my Suburban. 14:18 mark: LMAO! 🤣 I'm trying my hardest to pare down my belongings so I'm not doing that. Lol.

[@willsmooth45]

No wait can we call you “astrovan~adventureman”❤️❤️

[@stevexray6253]

That was great that you had the gummy tape that was just the right fix. When I was younger and in construction I tried to stay prepared like that as much as possible because there was money to be made back before the crash of '08. 😁👍. The next time you want to try canned fish try King Oscar salmon fillets, mackerel and kipper snacks.

[@waianaegal744]

Thanks Brian for your updates... so excited for your new plans...

[@laven111]

Great video Brian

[@goldviper5280]

Best of luck to you. Looks like a whole new adventure is about happen.

[@kellyatthedoublekranch5134]

It’s working out! Isn’t it amazing how much stuff we can hoard even in the smallest of spaces 🤯??? I’ve honestly learned so many things from watching your channel over the years. I like the tutorials as well as the travel content. Take care Brian ✌🏻

[@MrMinimalst]

It's all about the journey, and being adaptive. Hope that GMC treats you well. Be well Brian!

[@surratt95]

People from Cali love Ranch beans. Nobody I know here on the east coast likes them. I love them and grew up on them in Cali.

[@AdventureVanMan]

I actually never heard of them until recently. I showed in a video and said it was my first time trying and I got roasted by all the Texas folks!🤣

[@surratt95]

@ up in the central valley everyone I knew ate them.

[@deetrvl4life875]

As always I wish you well in all your endeavors! And I don’t feel that my opinion is so important to others that I must always express it, so I won’t here. Peace and Happiness!

[@deniseb.6007]

Found merino wool can reduce b.o. and the need to have multiple t-shirts/tops/under ware etc. It dries quick and is easy to hand wash. Thanks for the video! It will be fun to see your next adventure!

[@suec6646]

Good info about food, etc. and that good ole packrat mentality. Prepping is good, but it's true how much of that stuff you never use and some of it has a shelf life and needs to be thrown out

[@PTE399]

Good luck with your new adventure! 💙🙏🏻🪷🕊🇺🇸🕉✝️💙

[@joycekleinert5908]

I like the idea of your food prepping. Very smart!!

[@justinetherton4107]

Great choice on the Astro Van! I am a veteran GM mechanic and have personally owned 10 of the M/L vans. If you have any questions just let me know!

[@tamarackmi9195]

Vent shades are awesome Traveling lighter will give you time to learn what you want to get rid...maybe decide after you get back🤔It really isn't that much Tc Brian🥰

[@racebanning6390]

Def a balance of weight. I pack light too 1/2 ton so theres not any Excess i carry either. Glad to hear you sold the trailer 👍👍🙏🙏Be blessed

[@scottstevens6380]

Thank you.

[@jaybird2299]

Right on brother 🙏 Getting it done ✔️ 🤙🤙

[@derekstanbro7786]

Please do in-depth of tools you keep and reason why not keeping the rest

[@AdventureVanMan]

Will do!

[@mikeycleveland480]

Ranch Style Beans are the best. I love using them in my chili

[@bambihargrove6499]

Great Video ❤

[@saeedandalusi7579]

Groovy boomerang man😂

[@alchristensen8121]

I'm glad I got those for my van. And to my surprise, they've stuck perfectly, even after 12 years. Also, I'm not really the type to hold onto things "just in case," But I do keep my seldom-used tools. They could be a life saver.

[@h.a.barker412]

Personally I got the ones Weather tech vent shades for my pickup. They squeeze into the rubber door seal and don't come out. I got my BF the ones you are installing, we even had the body shop put them on and they came off in 6mos. Glad you have had better luck!

[@AstroVanTribe]

Wow, I can't believe you actually bought an Astro.... I love mine but they're all projects

[@stuartroland9605]

Great video thank you and good luck on the little trailer.🤩👍✌

[@davet7663]

New adventures add excitement to a persons life. Enjoy ✌️

[@Jeff-wb5rt]

Nothing wrong with letting loose of things,we only need so much to face each day,wow almost 5 years in box van, where is time going, vanlife from Quartzsite saying hello 👋

[@dorothybrown1692]

Enjoy the updates. Take care.

[@Kraig-h9b]

Food hording! I would suggest it for those just starting out. Within there first six months. I started out before covid. So when that happened I was good. At that time I had 40 lbs of rice 20 lbs of pasta. 25 gallons of water plus cans upon cans of food. I carried that weight for the first 3 years. Now tools I have expanded my mechanic tool set. I suggest a portable battery jumper. "Best 35 bucks I've spent on the road. " Some wire that you can strip and use for all sorts of things. I had to make a new ground wire once while stuck in the middle of no where. I would also say plenty of blankets. I down size now all the time. Every 3 months. And carry food for about 2 and 1/2 weeks. Just a few of the things I've learned on the road. Now I'm trying to become more social after 6 years on the road. And give advice and food for thought for the new adventurer.

[@marianfrances4959]

Awesome!! 👍😎🇨🇦✨️✌️

[@richardthomas1743]

Hey Brian!

[@cheddar2848]

Congratulation on selling your trailer and your motorcycle!🎉🎉🎉 stay safe out there.

[@janebray9392]

Hey! I just bought those window thingys! Thx for showing your food stash, I think I will look into finding some good dehydrated foods for prep. I bring waaaay to much clothing😅 hubby brought a normal size backpack - I got 2 totes and a closet😂 You did a good job on applying those window things, I hope it goes as well for me😂😂😂🙋🚗🇨🇦❤️‼️

[@tidelinetoalpine]

AVS = awesome vehicle styling 😂

[@AdventureVanMan]

😎

[@RedStickHistorian]

Good luck, I went through a similar process of downsizing in the past year, and the necessary decisions were difficult.

[@ElleBaum]

“On the ‘dines big time.”

[@CrankyBubushka]

Thanks for the video :)

[@Hiker_who_Sews]

✌

[@AdventureVanMan]

✌🏼😊

[@mntman603]

Second astrovan for adventurvanman! Your human... I heard you use a cussword, I think, for the first time in your videos