Beautiful Budget Van Conversion: Better to Travel on a Budget than not at all

[@ariellethomas8693]

I really love seeing this. "Just a mattress will do" You're so right. I keep getting stuck on these elaborate vans because it's all I see. Thanks for reminding me that this movement was meant for the broke people not the rich.

[@GreenlifeFin]

Arielle Thomas Yes, me too. And they are not trying to be any poshy ”influencers”, just some normal people enjoying life.

[@SatumainenOlento]

Yes!!! Exactly!!!

[@racheltucker8054]

You're so right. I get caught up too. You can always make improvements along the way

[@davethefish7653]

Much more respect for those who transform cheaper vans on lower budgets. Takes more imagination and ingenuity most of the time.

[@vincenzopromedia]

can't say I agree. depends what you want. My problem is I like chevy g20 vans so to see them in van life in a cheap way is disrespectful. You can have an elaborate g20 van too but we only see cheap ones. Chevy vans are not inferior to sprinters. They actually have many advantages over sprinters including the fact that they are easier to get into than sprinters but it never gets talked about because the majority van lifers are not true car enthusiasts so they're always out of their depth when talking about the specs or even the builds of their own vans. They keep trying to justify their interests and their ignorance by saying that the technical things are not as important as nature and travel. What they're missing is that van building is not about essentials it's an art in and of itself. It's all about pushing boundaries. The bigger more elaborate builds are about how much more can you empress someone with things you would never expect to be on four wheels. Not just the same basic things but in more and in excess. When a van is built right it actually improves your practicality and helps you save more money. A van that's built right is not necessarily a van that's just far more expensive. You actually have to know what you're doing so to say that it's not as important, I disagree. I just think it depends on what you want because a properly built out van is actually an extreme convenience. It's supposed to make you batman or agent 007.

[@wynnekp]

I really appreciate y'all showing a van that didn't cost tens of thousands of dollars to build! It's nice to know van life isn't just for people who have lots of money.

[@gracelikerain5039]

Lmao most people do it because they don't have alot of money 😐

[@ohduana6746]

I'm glad you wrote this because people are like, "We wanted to save money on living expenses so we bought a $40k van and did a $60k build" Like they seriously say that. And they all just happen to have jobs that allow them to work remotely - from anywhere. Van Life culture has been coopted and you can tell by the builds who has money to blow and who had to be practical.

[@khantilmakhat9974]

Love the build, simple and beautiful, this is what u need, hate when people spend too much and go overboard to build vans. This is what vanlife is all about, simple and pretty and comfortable.

[@TheJfizzle11]

Awesome video, great to see a van that’s not 60k!

[@missculinary]

I know right ?! Easily affordable. Even to me ppl who spend 10k on gadgets alone in like whaaaaaa?. But this van AND build are great

[@SatumainenOlento]

YES! This looks the same than those 60k vans and seems to work as well too...FANTASTIC!!! This is how to encourage people to just go for it!!! And it is a beauty...actually I would be quite much happier to have this than 60k van, because everything just seems simpler and less stressful and that is the whole purpose of it!

[@angelacrosby8105]

No shit!

[@CarrieP1981]

@@SatumainenOlento I agree! I'd take this van over one of the 60K (and up ⬆️) Sprinter builds! This is beautiful, functional, and repairs would be *so much cheaper!* The 350 engine that is in most of the Chevy/GMC vans is an excellent engine as well. Plus I really adore the style of the older Chevy/GMC model, it's my favorite van model.

[@vashtilou731]

Finally a Non Sprinter build out that's dope.

[@james_chatman]

Here's another nice non-Sprinter build: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eHKYqHuYh6-nlZo

[@hldye7442]

Bingo :)

[@88Kimberly888]

I envy these two. I've been wanting to do this for yrs. I've been homeless and lived in my car and I didn't mind living in my car But I would love to have a van and travel.

[@SobeaRey]

Same

[@annihilatedbutcomingback1119]

Awe I hope you get to, you can do it even in a mini van🤗

[@gypsybelle4757]

The customized Jasmine hook is such a great touch! Love it!

[@kaylabrewer8748]

I love seeing budget builds. Awesome. Still working on mine

[@lisalisa8882]

These two have a great attitude and sense of what is really important in life.

[@FreedomStrider]

When you find the perfect van - its amazing how quickly things unfold

[@Quantum36911]

Wow, this gives me hope, There are affordable options out there! I would be so happy in this van!

[@dazednconfused31337]

1:38 Van so nice the cyclist rode back to see it :D

[@yvettescheiman4991]

Ugh...I HATE when someone else catches something obvious that I totally missed! 😆

[@realdeal7074]

😆

[@cashonly6117]

Gteat job on the cheap. The one thing I really got out of the video was the description of using lightweight wood, like plywood. As many videos that I have seen, that never dawned on me

[@nicoleg7900]

Thank you for that! Beautiful build. That last part was helpful as well when you mentioned about not stressing about things you “need” because in the end a mattress in the back is just as good you still get the same experience and that is every true. I’ve been kinda stressing about saving enough money for the build and you helped me remember that it’s not about that. Thanks!

[@maggiedoor6093]

For anyone building lower cupboards make them wide enough, deep enough to fit the wire slide out inserts. They sell them for kitchen cupboards, many places sell them. . You can place baskets inside for smaller items. Much easier to retrieve things.

[@udmbfckx2916]

Great BUDGET job you guys! You also have expansion possibilities for added comfort as you may seem fit, such as adding a solar panel/battery for a future DC fridge. Even though older Chevy engines and transmissions are decently reliable, I would have a trusted mechanic do a "Health checkup" for a fee, just to make sure you don't have any unpleasant surprises later and maybe some "preventive" maintenance. Also, I would suggest a Premium AAA membership which includes longer distance towing.

[@lindylund280]

The wood is gorgeous and the White brightens it up. Nice work.

[@Lolo-vp2us]

I love your video and your positive attitude on things. Craftmanship inside is beautiful. Great job you two!

[@thekyliehowland]

Love the vibe you both have! Love this van conversion

[@lindylindybasicoceangirl]

...totally agree priorities of what's most important ...travel/functionality/things you love/doggo/etc....and imho even the collected rocks...great build/couple...

[@jalexb915]

This couple offered some great advice at the end. Great build and thanks for sharing!

[@davidramossalsologoporexse2469]

you guys got what you need and you look happy 😊 that's what matters

[@Priesttx57]

Simplicity and beauty, all in one! Great job!

[@zentierra7803]

I _love_ this young couple's outlook on travelling and life! And I _love_ their beautiful van build! Dora (the explorer), indeed 🚐💙

[@alyssausrey3043]

I love your build! It is super inspiring to see an older vehicle being converted. We have a 1984 Dodge B250 with a high top that we are building out right now and we don't have thousands on thousands of dollars to do it with. It is really helpful to seeing what was important for your build and what wasn't. What are the hooks you used to hold your fridge/cooler in place? I am thankful I came across your video and appreciate that you shared your build!

[@growingwildheather]

Micheal and Stephanie are awesome! Their van, Dora is super cozy. It's making us think more about downsizing our van. Standing up was what we needed at the time, but things change. Safe travels everyone!

[@EbinBabujiPM]

Little travelling is always better than no travel right 🤣❤️ Was feeling the bohemian mood, and came across your video. How will I go Back to old me. Good van by the way or the house 😃

[@dfros1957]

Love it. Nice to know you don't need to spend a fortune to have a comfortable nice looking and functional build. You did an awesome job. Iv been thinking about selling my house and moving into a van. This makes me feel its possible. Thank you for sharing . And best of luck on your journey.

[@ZuriDsWellness]

You two did a Fabulous job. Your Van is on Fleek. 💪🏽👍🏽🤗🦋 You did that!!!

[@DoogieVans]

Leaved window curtains are a nice touch. May have to use them for my front windshield. Great vid

[@carolhewett3756]

Kudos to the two of you. I've watched hundreds of videos and was beginning to think I needed $100,000 to get started. It looks so cozy and simple. Happy travels.

[@Motaki666]

The cool rocks cupboard is the most relatable thing I have ever seen in one of these builds

[@jaylornepriebe]

I liked your build and loved your thoughts near the end of the video where you said what was important for you for your van build. Looking forward to more videos.

[@ricksmith7631]

i love this build, your layout is pretty much the same as mine with a few small changes but this is the layout i came up with for my econoline. my build is still ongoing but seeing videos like this gets me excited and i cant wait til i can get out with my 4 legged co-pilot and escape. i like the keep it simple idea and im sure i will come up with some modifications but it seems like what you have works.

[@jeremymatthews8806]

Great build, very nice. The ending words from both of you guy really actually relieved stress, because I'm in the process of designing mine and I'm over complicating it and stress myself out for no reason whatever works works is awesome and nothing is permanent. Great video I'll definitely be using it for reference love the style. :)

[@CaliforniaBushman]

Nicely done scrap woodwork with white cabinets, guys. Well done! I have a 1993 Dodge Ram B250 the same exact length (standard) as yours bought for $2000. Already nicely converted with cedar cabinets and carpeting in 1994 with a fiberglass roof raised enough to stand up in front at 5'9". Can't wait to fully reconvert it in a nice rustic vibe with 600 watts of solar and fridge. Have an amazing space saving floorplan I'll use from a Swiss engineer & his wife on their build.

[@AdventuresOfMoi]

I saw your aloe plant and gasped! I have the same pot (Dollarama) and an aloe in it too!!! It was a weird shock moment of “THATS MY PLANT??” 😂😂😂

[@sandiw2364]

Great job on your build. Love your puppy ❤❤❤

[@teramariepruitt1303]

Inspiring! Ty... Can't wait to get started on my "van life" Journey!

[@shanemilehi]

Great video. I just bought almost the exact van and it’s great to see the potential. I really like how they did it. Stressed about taking out the auto back bench/bed and ac. Ive seen some people struggle with removing all the bolts etc..

[@cindybrown8046]

Love it! Beautiful van! Love the skylight!

[@terryi8892]

Cool van I love the skylight . A comment I saw on another van build mentioned that everything should be locked/bolted down because in case of an accident while driving everything thing could go flying around. Of course you could use fibreglass and bolts to hold everything down really stiff without having to remodel .

[@olliewenyon4617]

I think if it’s so heavy that it would be lethal if it hit you, the speed you’d have to go at for it to move means you’d be dead on impact anyways

[@crystalitsasecrete917]

Very nice build for a great price. Excellent job.

[@luminyam6145]

Awesome build, I like these two young ppl. They are very practical and sensible.

[@janetbransdon3742]

I like that comment " it's about the travel experience. Loved the video .🌞

[@emilymeister5986]

One of my favorite van videos so far ❤️

[@robinm2699]

Love love this build!! Ive see many but for me standing is not important either. Im so inspired! Thank you!

[@Carlos_Cintron]

Probably the best build I’ve seen of this type of van so far. Great job! Working on my own. Same van. But there’s 4 of us! 😅

[@charlottegunning1548]

I LOVE your message! Do it any way you Can! Like you said" is standing up in the van That Important?(to keep me from just getting Started Now?!) You guys look perfectly comfy,practical n Ready to Roll! Safe,Awesome travels to the three of you! Woof,woof! I can only Imagine how Much your dog is LOVING "Van Life"!! God bless you

[@KETCHUPKING]

great video ,I also live in n.s and thinking about getting a van and cruising around with the wife we are in our 50's keep up the inspiring videos

[@GreenlifeFin]

I love your van, looks so beautiful. I also like u two and your style of talking and making the video. Humble and clever. And u can see u love your dog 💓.

[@gracelikerain5039]

I would cry tears of joy to live in there

[@travelingsellvation]

Nice! Goes to show that you don’t have to spend a fortune. We renovated a class a motorhome and have much less than a third of what most people have in their used gas motorhomes and ours looks just as good and seems to be more reliable in every aspect. We can spend that money we saved on adventure and inventory for our traveling resale business! Great job!

[@singh5004]

6000 dollars ? Great job! I'll pay 10000 for it in case they decide to sell it. ♥️

[@pepethefrog1586]

6000 is for the conversion alone without the van cost on top of it dude

[@ImJeffRoe]

@@pepethefrog1586 He clearly said 6,000 for the complete setup lmao go listen to the first minute and a half before you argue with someone and make yourself look like an idiot.

[@StephenAlexanderVideos]

@@pepethefrog1586 glad to see you didn't watch the video.

[@WandaKelley]

I had said a budget from about 7-10 k is what I figured I might be able to do something similar but I'm sure they did all the labour themselves and did they happen to say what year van it is, By chance?

[@WandaKelley]

@@pepethefrog1586 he said he pd 2.700 for the van and another 1100.00 for mechanical issues and the rest to make it look the way it does in the end with it costing a total of $6,000.00 if I remember correctly ?

[@johngudmundson9975]

Waiting for ford to build my van for 6 months. At least it’s giving me time to save money to afford to put some things in it. Appreciate your video, reminded me why I wanted to build a van in the first place. I keep getting sucked in to the expensive build ideas that I will never be able to afford but perhaps a bit at a time I will! Lol

[@DeborahLong7777]

Great build and a skylight is amazing!!!

[@winnie2222]

We paid 1000 for our van & she got a 20$ makeover before hitting the road lol. Just follow ur bliss. The money will always magically work out. (for those who got the Babylonian money magik reference...👊😘 Soul fam.)

[@kimberlylozano2881]

Its nice to see cheaper options of van builds, it has everything but a cassette potty, its nice, plenty counter space, comfy bed, storage etc.. I love her tattoos! They seem like they are focused on traveling, living and enjoying life in the moment. Wish me and my hubby could have done this 6-14 yrs ago(which we thought wasnt possible)but now we have a son in kindergarten so definitely our plan for when he is grown lol. 13 more yrs 🤞. Maybe build a van/schoolie for summers/school breaks, that would be awesome! I have never been to ANY northern states of the US...live in Tx and only been to the 8 southern states.

[@CriticalThinker1967]

One of the nicest budget builds I've seen

[@nedaCFilms]

These old GM vans are just the coolest.

[@mrjake2132]

Great advice - traveling on budget is better than not traveling at all.

[@MegaBpop]

Congrats your home Van conversion. I especially like that you both worked on it together and that you were very wise with your money !! Keep your ideas of being minimalist and wise with money and you will be able to retire at the age of 35.

[@wendyweaver8749]

Please ditch the background music when people are speaking. Such music makes it harder to hear what is being said. Thank you.

[@amandasanders1141]

SeattleBlue Agree, it doesn’t add anything!

[@vincent2993]

Stop crying

[@MissJnet]

It’s the experience, you’re so right.

[@isa6194]

Awesome video guys! Thank you you give some ideas! I recently bought a Chevy G20 explore and it was a pretty good deal. Thanks.

[@brownbunny2513]

They are beautful, and the van is just fine..very fine... You guys did a great job...thank you for sharing...👍

[@limitlesszenproductions865]

HALIFAX! I am an hour away. Finding a van on the east coast of Canada is not an easy task. Well done Michael and Stephanie!!

[@kollagebeats]

Maybe the best mindset I've heard around building out a van

[@spiritflower6640]

Well done :) thank you for the inspiration! it seems that after a while a toilet of some kind- would be desirable- I mean middle of the night or rainy cold weather urgencis

[@WandaKelley]

Until then you have the option of a portable potty chair , it's just a larger version of a child's potty chair that you have had for you're kids when they was being potty trained , they have a bag that is smell prof some how that acts sorta like a diaper genie where it has the chamber where it ties you're waste in it and bam your plastic bag is hygiene clean and disposable in a very clean way.

[@brianstone5248]

Thanks for posting!!! Y’all did an amazing job! ❤️😎

[@S.G..E555]

These are always my favourite kind of vans... built with love and pride... 👌👌👌

[@sylviaw11]

this is an awesome build, nice couple

[@Joh316BeBlessed]

In LOVE with this design 😍😍😍

[@noelleguinn7744]

Love this! I have a similar van that I am looking to give a big makeover for! This is helpful!!

[@abigailhutchinson5487]

so cool! i have to say not being able to stand in my van would be a deal breaker for me. although i’m glad it works for you!

[@elishebax]

This is so cool. Nice build guys.

[@memuzzi1]

Nice build. Thanks for sharing.

[@WandaKelley]

So you shared where you keep you're toiletries for the rest room so did I miss that you had a bathroom in this van? I don't believe you could put one in that you can shower in as well, thinking I'm way off though with the idea of it and all?! I maybe over dreaming about the concept of it all??!! Or am I??!!

[@cindyquinn5252]

Love your pup, looks so much like our sweet guy we had for 15 years. I bet you have fun with the dog hair because they sure are shedders!!

[@MonetOnAJourney]

Awesome! Happy travels!

[@vanjoy1974]

I personally love these kind of rigs way better. Those big sprinters lack real personality. These to young people should be so proud of their home. Inspiring

[@peterpreece5411]

Beautiful video and love you have your dog with you 😎❤

[@carolinehannah3283]

I love the simple built

[@jent.6622]

So young and so wise. Peace be with you as you live your best life!

[@Zenzonevibezzz]

Love the practicality and the cost!! Also hello from Halifax :)

[@nancyholland1877]

Your van is adorable.. you maneuver just fine. Do you use a solar shower or have a bathroom ? People are so clever with those things too.

[@gmackinnon648]

Sweet!, Pup must really enjoy having a new daily pee spot and new squirrels to play with 'joking, but yeah sweet build. Enjoy!😊✌️

[@sdavrider]

Beautiful budget build!

[@StarTexaspets]

"We have a cigarette lighter right here, for........ charging things" 😆🍃🍃

[@franklyons6966]

You guys are real good job. Keep it simple

[@jhmstagg9104]

Perfect pricing and work load. Nice

[@elsagonzalez8007]

Great video. Looks like lots of fun. Gbu 🙋

[@karenb1627]

I like a simple , unique build. Work with what you can afford and make it yours.

[@lauracoate4741]

Her hair is so beautiful

[@danielruel5099]

So nice thank you for sharing

[@Lotuslaful]

Beautiful job

[@oblviononplanetearth]

Based off this title alone, I already like you

[@tillygraham1572]

Nice van good job building it out 😊

[@happydays59]

Really nice!

[@SunshineB21]

Good job thanks for the video 👍🏻