Inside My New Ambulance Build! Major Upgrade Tour 2023

[@livingmybestestlife]

Finally!!! Bob is finally combining functionality with aesthetics. The van looks great. I'm happy for you Bob.

[@sydneyvrana]

A wonderful home on wheels! Nice Ambulance RV update Mr. Wells! Ambulances are super great options! I have a 19 foot trailer and V6 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk SUV. I'll travel the first time as a snowbird with my current trailer and car but I want to get into vans when I retire in a year or 2? I’m now a 65 1/2 year old public teacher still working fulltime here in Montreal Quebec Canada. I can’t wait to finally live my snowbird nomad dream I've had for many many years. Hopefully I'll finally live my great dream next year or at the latest in 2 years! 66 or 67 is enough to stop working fulltime in the public school system as I have for the past 30 years. I'll have a good retirement pension so I need to live my reward! Thanks for all your super videos and inspiration! I can’t wait to go to the January RTR in a year or 2! I hope to meet so many great people and it'll be amazing to meet Bob Wells and other great and inspirational KZbinr nomads that I've been learning from for many years as well as many other nomads! 🙏

[@valnpaulvanorden]

very nice home!

[@valnpaulvanorden]

kudos to diane! its a brave man or woman who can ask 4 help!

[@valnpaulvanorden]

luv u r. bookshelf

[@valnpaulvanorden]

where do u keep u r stamps & envelopes?

[@tingtingboll]

He's like the Bob Ross of the nomadic lifestyle. It's just so calm and relaxing to watch him and I don't even camp or own a van 😂

[@andreaarguello2492]

I totally relate with your comment. He is such a chill cool vibe guy and so caring it’s contagious . I cańt anytime soon be a nomad but listening to him and his interviews is inspiring in many ways. End of the day they all choose happiness and break out of the matrix regardless of what their past good or bad they reinvent their style of living and choose happiness.

[@donnasloane9031]

We really really really really love you Bob!

[@turnbullstravels735]

Am I the only person who was pausing the video to see what books Bob is reading? 🥰 My dh and I are looking forward to volunteering at the 2024 RTR’s, Bob!

[@missylearned9821]

No, you’re not. The irony didn’t escape me that he is reading Sapiens by Harari who is Schwab’s minion and Schwab’s organization’s stated mission is that by 2030 “you will own nothing and be happy.” 😔

[@Here_kitty_kitty1-wg9xd]

😂I was so on it!

[@terrytulipane6916]

Oh wow....no, but I definitely noticed his large library 😊

[@HeatherJacobs-r5h]

Bob...so impressed with your new space. Women are good home makers...lol! Glad you had 2 woment to help you get set up. Love Cody! You deserve the best and so does Cody. Safe travels.❤ Heathe🇨🇦

[@carmenm.9522]

Agreed. Bob has surrounded himself with some very competent women! Well done. Greetings from Canada, too!

[@ABCpdc]

Cody and you look super happy in your campulance. You must realize you have been the inspiration for so many of us to get started in nomad life. We all come to our own approach in the end, but you give us courage and endless advice along the way. You are a true blessing!

[@CharlesLangSamuel]

Two notes: I’d recommend drilling circular holes in the plywood under your bed to avoid moisture issues. I had a bed like that in a travel trailer and had issues, but it’s convenient if you have open space beneath, as you do, to drill holes. Second, good idea about insulation around the freezer but when instructing people about it I would always include that you must be aware of where the freezer is exhausting the heat it pulls from inside, and not block that area. Usually it’s some area with a grill design where heat flows out but some fridges actually radiate the heat from plain metal sides.

[@Loruca]

It may be that the moisture issues are impacted by the climate of where you spend most of your time. Arizona and British Columbia have vastly different humidity levels. I think I would want those holes anyway, but Bob seems to like the desert.

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

Excellent point, Charles.

[@donwyates]

I could be wrong but, I think Bob uses Den-Dry under his bed foam.

[@libbylandscape3560]

Drilling holes in the platform is what’s recommended for all platform beds as I discovered, and I can attest to the mold growth on my first build platform bed. 😅

[@elizabethknaak383]

That's amazing that you mentioned brittish columbia , I felt the Lord in my prayer time say pray for them I had to look up on a map where brittish columbia was so in a van story I got conformation .

[@DebbiePotter-xh7kv]

I live how as well as Bob has done with all of this he has in no way become pretentious, he isn’t wasteful or living high on the gog. He is still so relatable and real!

[@turnbullstravels735]

He is one in a million, for sure.

[@jeannerountree952]

I am so glad that you’re telling all of us about your clutter. I’m a clutter person myself and I have to take time every now and then to pick up the clutter and put it away. It’s nice for someone to explain that they like to have it out where you can see it, that explains me as well.

[@jheremck]

...clutter person here too...l have to see it in order to use it, otherwise, it is forgotten. It's a pain, but it is who l am. Being an artist, my stuff has to be out where i can see it!!! ...Thank You for sharing... Take Care :)

[@helened6896]

Agree it's good to be who we are and where we are in life.👍

[@sharonslay1936]

Bob, I am grateful for your simplicity & that after all of these years of van dwelling you haven't left the life. So glad your ambulance 🚑 is working well for you.❤

[@NoteFromSELF]

I'm currently living in 64 square feet, off-grid in the desert. I think a van ambulance would work best for me. I like the industrial storage. A lot can be done to make it look warmer. But I am one that needs to stay organized and orderly, especially in a small space. Looks great, Bob.

[@jeanneprice6736]

About Cody…”I love him, so that is what we’re going to do.” Love that line.

[@MyCleverHandle]

Strange how I didn't become a clutterbug until AFTER I became a Vanlifer. And I too, love books. Of all the things to collect when you're in a limited space and with weight restrictions. So I do what I call "short term book rentals": I buy them at library sales and estate sales, read them (or skim through them), and then donate them to the nearest library. Keep the information flowing. As you do with your videos! Thanks so much for sharing!

[@chapman1569]

I love books too and one thing I do when I really like a phrase or paragraph, I write it in a notebook with the title, author , page number etc.. That way when I flip through this notebook I can still enjoy what I read. It helped me cut down on the amount of books. I will even note some comments that I read that I found surprisingly insightful and clever. It is kinda like a reading journal.

[@joeglennaz]

Bob, your ambulance looks absolutely wonderful! Thank you for sharing it with us! You are in my prayers

[@gabrielleparis3532]

Thank you Bob. You are one of the most inspiring people on Planet Earth. I love how you help people build new lives filled with support and happiness. You bring a smile to all our hearts and souls.❤

[@Travelgirl0224]

Looks great- I would recommend putting your books on the middle shelf so food, liquid splashes etc. will not get on the paper and absorb the smells. Just get closed plastic type bins for the bottom shelf. Easy to wipe and keep clean.

[@Here_kitty_kitty1-wg9xd]

I have to admit his book shelves look really nice parallel to the counter desk, but your suggestion is much more practical. Had not thought of the splashing until you mentioned it.

[@VonBluesman]

If Cody is happy, Bob and a lot of us are happy. Cody has always been the Star of the show even though he never demands extended air time. 👍😂😎🇺🇸

[@WisconsinWanderer]

I’m so happy for you Bob to have this build and to have the comfort you deserve. Thanks 😊

[@jaystewart9947]

The “new” build looks great. Functional and just right for you. Milk crate type storage really fits the bill at times

[@CraftHarlot]

Yes! The build looks great, and very functional. I love milk crates, and build tops for them from scrap wood. You can see into them, they self-ventilate and stack. I use them for seating or tables with the wooden tops.

[@belindahugheslifestyle]

It certainly does. Personally, I like things in sealed boxes as much as possible, but milk crates are so versatile.

[@normaevett]

Thanks for saying you"enjoy clutter within reason". I found that so validating! As long as it's organized, I, too, like my things within reach. And have to have my precious books! They're like best friends and attached to so many positive memories! So this video had much meaning for me. Thanks again!

[@marypegram3667]

Bob , your rig is ABSOLUTELY beautiful!!! Congratulations!!

[@carolynnewyork6919]

Bob you've started a amazing revolution. What can be ones answer, 2 a housing situation. You really have shown America that it's ok 2 live in alternative situations. Thank you.❤ All the best .

[@ramblin.rennae]

Countertop workspace is a must! I just removed the entire dinette in my Casita travel trailer and built a breakfast counter and storage underneath. I also left space for my guitar stool to enjoy my music indoors. It's very freeing to design your own camper to meet your specific needs and personality. So many are afraid to customize or DIY projects. Never too late to change things up to suit your lifestyle. Love your scenic curtains!

[@AllyMcFancysp1xn]

Good for you! I lived full-time in my 1988 Bigfoot for 7 years. I did some major remodeling, like you did with your Casita. Friends told me I'd have a hard time selling it with the changes I'd made. Well, I made the hard decision to sell it in 2020, boo hoo, and the woman who bought it LOVED what I'd done to it. She bought it instantly. So, yes, be brave, make changes that work for you, especially if you're full-timing it. BTW, I love, love, love Casitas. There may be one in my future 😉

[@carlrobison6065]

When I built out my Minivan build, It was important for me to have a bookshelf. It is only a third of yours, but it still makes me happy.

[@lindsaylivinlife6282]

Some excellent upgrade decisions ...happy for you! 😀 I fully agree on new location for the bed, the shelves with trim that added a lip to keep items secure are a must, as is the good-sized countertop. It was great Diane was able to bring your vision to life! Thank you for showing us the remodel! P.S. ...so glad Cody made an appearance. 😊

[@jayneweathers]

I love how many times you used the word "really" and I'm so happy you are really enjoying your improvements. Safe travels!

[@Drmikekuna]

I just redid my van kitchen for the "counter space" reason. My old counter had a built-in sink that I never used and an attached induction burner that I did use. The new kitchen eliminated the sink and put the induction burner in a drawer. Additionally, it is around 4" longer. Simple change, major benefit!

[@KimtheElder]

Cody. The happiest dog in the world. Just see him smile 😊 Great job Diane and Bob 👍👍

[@vickijohnston8896]

I'm so happy for you! It's Cozy yet Roomy! You Deserve lots of joy as you have brought such happinessto other!

[@susanmurrell635]

I can find things when I leave them out...CLUTTER...but when I put everything away, I can't find anything I need 😂😊

[@s.k.1091]

Totally agree !!!! Once I file something away, I might as well have thrown it out ….. out of sight = out of mind …. Like forever!

[@andrewmeitner4818]

Cody is the STAR of the show!

[@stephaniesimmons-ashorobi3314]

Love the new build and the good thing is that you still kept it simple..

[@sandracraine4329]

Love it! You deserve a nice home! Thank you for all you have done and continue to do to help others. I have been watching you for years now.

[@vanessal7145]

Your new setup looks so cozy. The curtains are fabulous and having the visibly accessible library is fantastic. You are a national treasure and the premier resource for the nomad community. I found you even before I got my vanlife rig and have been watching all your legacy videos to learn how to make the most of it. I appreciate you!

[@SandiHooper]

Really happy that you’re loving the remodel. Life is good! Keep up the great work, Mr. W.

[@joannepepe8512]

Love the curtains

[@shiralleehaggart72]

Love the set up. You have made this very homely and having all your books on display sets the scene. I can picture you tucked up in bedroom a cup of tea etc beside your bed and you reading one of your favourite books. Safe travels Bob.

[@helened6896]

It's beautiful. I agree that the back is wonderful for your sleeping area. And so much storage in the back and elsewhere. A cozy home and I'm happy for you. Thanks for your beautiful life and all you do to help others. Peace.

[@DTowns19]

Love it! Tao Te Ching is truly a life changing to read! Hope your recovery from surgery is going well!

[@TXGranny2]

Great new look Bob! You've come along way in the almost 10 years I've been following you!

[@shirleyfrederickson4794]

I really, really like it, Bob! You and Diane did a great job. Very functional and spacious 😊 Luv and Hugs from Canada 🇨🇦🚐

[@jacquelineMeyers-is1zz]

You have labored selflessly and suffered I know, but your beautiful heart and giving as a way of life, is getting all my prayers, your humbleness is humbling. Thank you

[@livie318]

Bob I am so happy that you can live intentionally. Everything having a home is a must even in sticks and bricks. You go boy! I love it 🎉

[@brianleonard6885]

🎉🎉🎉 Bob you so deserve this and I just think it's great. Thanks for all you do.

[@vidapulling8845]

Bob, of all your videos this is the one I enjoyed the most. I feel like a mom, real proud of you. Codi looks happy too! Keep up the good work. Cheers. I always learn something from you. Please take care.

[@scwps23]

Great looking rebuild Bob. Thanks for sharing. Your design with help of good people it all came together. Community is very important for Nomads. If your best friend Cody approves it's all good.

[@MeJaneEntrprsz]

Very cool build Bob. I was thinking You could put hinges on that counter + retractable legs to fold it up to close/cover the above shelves when driving. & make more iopen space when not prepping. But I'm same way, if there's a counter, there's gonna be stuff on it. Turned out great.

[@marlenen6130]

I saw your comment after I made mine! Great minds think alike 😊. I agree having open space (or the option for it) is so important.

[@bmiles4131]

Yes, kept thinking he’d have to put up the cups with pens when driving. A hinged table would be easy.

[@MariaRodriguez-u5h]

I LOOOVE THE CURTAINS BOB!! I HAVE A BEACH THEME ON MINE, BUT U REALLY LOVE YOUR MAOUNTAIN ONES MUCH BETTER!! THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR INSPIRATION AND KNOWLEDGE YOU SHARE WITH ALL OF US!! GOD BLESS YOU BOB! 🙏💖 KEEP ON TRUKKIN!!😃👍

[@TJ77790]

I really really really am happy you’re happy. You’re such a down-to-earth, honest person and I love ❤ watching your videos… this one especially. I noticed one of your book titles was “The Depression Cure”. I once read “Behind depression is anger”. For whatever that’s worth to you, I thought I’d share it. Thanks for showing us your practical remodel and comfortable home.

[@janetkoball44]

A great looking little home. I have over 1000 books in many bookcases. They are beautiful so i kind of think of them as art , I picked most of them out carefully, and I actually read some. Mostly cook books. Enjoy your new surroundings.

[@Ms13cats]

Thank you for showing us your home. And for letting me steal a few of your book titles as well. 😀❤

[@elsathal7359]

Nice! Great work ladies. Thank you for sharing Bob ❣️👋✌️💞🤟

[@DonnaHawkTx]

Wonderful to see how happy you are in your newly designed digs!

[@monkeyshinemmie]

How glad I am to have watched this video. I appreciated seeing your handmade sign at the foot of your bed, AND being able to peruse the titles on your bookshelf. In person I would have done that, too. I'm always so interested in doing that! Thank you for this tour of your home, Bob, and all you do for others!

[@AllyMcFancysp1xn]

I was so glad that the camera slowly panned the books for the very same reason in your comment. Books reveal a lot about a person, so the bookshelf is where I always head first. He has some good ones, many of which I've read, as well. And, yes, his sign by the bed. Nice remodel, Bob!

[@maryhartsock7792]

“There’s room for everybody” That says so much ❤

[@saturninc3786]

hey Bob - I love your new transformation.I especially love the books on that shelf. For me that is one of the most important parts of making a 'home' look like a personal space. I never see Vanlifers have books on shelves like that. Is so important to me, so I love this! Well done bro. Can imagine that feels real good. Also the large workspace on that new desk is fabulous, very good choices! Thanks for sharing bro - greetz Jason

[@lorisuhr7326]

Love this, I will need a book shelf too if I do this. It takes a long time to think about everything I need to make me happy and comfortable. This is just the ticket!

[@georgeelder8415]

You're quite the bookworm, Bob! I do like your library...

[@nancywhitty7072]

You can always put your duck down underneath the wooly blanket. It'd weight down the duck down and protect it from Cody's little paws. ❤️ Cody

[@debbietroop5764]

Yay for clutter! I am happiest with my stuff around me. I have books, Kindle, and IPad. Magazines and catalogs. I keep it fairly neat, no rotting food or mold experiments, and I do dust frequently. I just want to have my stuff within reach.

[@leonardmclaughlin8506]

Hey there Bob , pretty darn cool remodel . Making life more comfortable.

[@susanmay3914]

Awww... I love this! Bob, you are a gem. Hope I get to meet you one day when I get out on the road.

[@gregorygiarrusso]

Congratulations Bob, happy holidays, merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!!

[@richardpalmanteer9798]

Hey Bob, well done looks very functioal and great. Glad to see you are doing well. If you remember we meet at the 2020 RTR and was able to meet you and we took a photo together. Glad I was able to meet you because you helped me with funds for gas when I was in Bullhead City AZ. Take care my friend and as always "Enjoy The Adventure." 🤠👍✌

[@JennBX1]

It looks so good. Now you sound as happy as all the peeps you showcase! Woot woot!🍾👍

[@CBAmakingAusername]

Wow. It looks so homely. Lovely. Greetings from England x

[@tsopuaifa]

I just love how practical and simple he has made it and that is one of my goals as well. I wanna make mine like a very comfortable tent with the experience I have from back packing. Thanks for the inspiration Bob. 🙏

[@lorisvanjourney]

Wow Bob I sure love your new ambulance build. It looks FANTSTIC ❤🇨🇦

[@brendamcchristy6044]

Congratulations on your remodel Bob. Just wonderfulr🎉

[@TheAuntieX]

Thanks for sharing, Bob! And, thank you for everything!

[@bridgetoconnor7229]

CONGRATULATIONS! What a transformation! So happy for you!! ❤❤❤

[@marlenen6130]

It looks really good Bob. Consider this: if that countertop had a piano hinge and would swing up and cover those shelves when in travel? You could put a locking mechanism to catch it and then when traveling down those rough roads, the things on the shelves would stay put. I know you would need to make the legs also hinge down but that would give you such a nice space for hauling your “outside gear” or for hauling large items in general. I recommend for you the Exped Mega Mat Duo 10 or 15 which is a self inflating insulated mattress. The 10 is 4” thick and the 15 is 6” thick and they are delightfully comfortable, warm, washable, lightweight compared to regular mattresses and mold and mildew resistant. When inflated they can easily be set up on their side, allowing you to use the bed platform area as a table. I know they are expensive initially but folks spend so much time, energy and resources on keeping warm anyways but rarely consider this wonderful option. Of course there are other options, but this is what I have and I’ve used it in my Aliner trailer on the existing pads and it’s so much more comfortable and I wake up more rested because I wasn’t cold all night.

[@BrittMFH]

I expected his shelf to have a hinge as you indicated. Sounds like he's very happy with his mattress as is.

[@AllyMcFancysp1xn]

Thank you for the mattress recommendation. I'm having a hard time finding one; I'll definitely check out this brand.

[@kathleendanley8508]

Bob, I’ve been watching you for awhile now and I absolutely love what you have done with this ambulance. It looks so neat with tons of storage. I’m trying to figure out just what my budget is and where to start and you have given me so many, many ideas to consider. Keep it up! Thank you!!!

[@RLeeVanCamps]

This build is brilliant. Purpose and function. Luv the curtains too.

[@alaskablunderbusadventures3432]

Your videos are some of the best and I enjoy watching them. My cousin got an ambulance with the notion to make it a camper, but he abandoned the idea and got rid of it. I thought it was a mistake, but it's not my money and time. For myself, I have a shuttle bus / church bus which I have converted and it's very comfortable for me and my dogs. As you know these things are a work in progress even after they become serviceable. I do not live in it or on the road full time. I have a home base, thankfully. But here's the thing. I see a lot of videos showing the various layouts of the interior of the conversions. That's fine. Hardly anyone shows the mechanical aspects of the platform. My bus has the 7.3 liter diesel engine which generally "they" say is a good engine. It's in a E450 chassis. I initially figured all that would be the least of the problems. As it turns out it's the greatest of the problems with a conversion, and the greatest money issues. Finding a good, honest affordable mechanic is part of it. But that's my experience. I would like to see a good video which explains that to people getting into these conversions. So, that's my suggestion. I still think it's better and less expensive than just buying a ready-made camper in this class. But the mechanical repair and upkeep has been rather expensive for me.

[@barbarajennings3283]

What a great traveling library in the ambulance. I really like the ambulance idea.

[@karenhollister4708]

Really like the new look and I really love your curtains. It makes it feel like you are outside in the mountains.

[@GaiaCarney]

I like the bookshelf! I reference books often, I wouldn’t want them stowed away, either 📚

[@markschneberger5521]

Congratulations on the new remodel. I hope you nomad till you're 100. 👍

[@susanfoster4141]

I loved seeing your books. Many are on my shelf, too! Love Alan Watts. I'm glad you're 😊 with build! Good idea using ambulance

[@tikilee7172]

Wow, brilliant! Great design and beautifully executed

[@Margot-b1s]

I think this is probably my favorite video.❤

[@christinalogan2489]

Counter space!! My first " redesign" to my van was to create counter space .i did this with a 5x2 folding table and moving my bed. Its fun to be able to make changes as i learn what i need the most. Thanks for sharing your re-build!! Thanks for keeping it simple!

[@dallastrujillo7540]

Awwww….Cody! What a sweetie!

[@jst2708]

Your dog says, "Move over & let me.how you how it's done " You both look very happy . God bless

[@voodookitchenmama]

Looks amazing, very professional, yet comfortable.

[@leilareggie1826]

Congrats on your new upgraded home Bob. Thank you for continuing to share all your life journeys with us.

[@ChrisW228]

I am really really really really really really happy for you. :) It looks SO nice.

[@RakshadaShirley]

Great video. I would love to read the books in your library. From the titles, you can see that you are a reflective and thoughtful person.

[@marielinejuillard9495]

Very nice build!! Cody looks like a puppy ❤ he's adorable ❤

[@LorrieMarchael]

Its looks really nice. Cody seemed very proud to show us how he jumped up to the bed. Little show off. LOL

[@ATumblelinaTruth7777]

Nice Great Job Bob 😊 I Wish I could afford an Ambulance. I keep looking but it’s caught on Now they charge an Arm & A Leg for a decent one. Thank you for sharing with Us! 🙏👍

[@garyb5889]

"I enjoy clutter". Good one Bob! I'll use that. Thanks.

[@DiceCraftChannel]

Glad to see Cody in your video. 🐕

[@jeanieirwin4747]

Hello Bob, Your new remodel is both beautiful and multifunctional. It has ample space for living working filming and supporting g uour nomadic mobile dwelling life. I have a Hightop chevy express that works well and I continue to make upgrades. I have a 37 quart 12 volt cooler and two large bluetti power stations. Like you I just carry bottled water because I didn't buy a filtering system. I am giving more thought to counter space. Thanks for the ideas. For now I just use what I have which is a folding table. I have an air mattress and comforter . Overall it's enough for me and my tiny dog. Have lots of overhead storage and ventilation hasn't been an issue. Have a two burner propane stove that meets my needs. When I travel I find that less is better. ❤

[@SkyeID]

If I was gonna have a rig, I want to be able to stand up in it. And oh my Goth, my rig has to have a shower. Don't wanna go to a gym everyday just to get clean. I want a kitchen with a countertop big enough to prep meals, otherwise I'd be less inclined to cook, and eating out would waste too much money. And I like your bed set up. I'd totally want a bed set up where I can just jump in, and I don't have to move a bunch of furniture and stuff around to get to it. Being cluttered? I can relate. I'm the most cluttered person in my family, and having a place for everything is key. If I had a step up to my bed, it would have to double as storage box. It would help me be more intentional with what I buy, and to not bring clutter back into my life. Maybe I would make myself a rule that if I buy one item, I get rid of one item, though easier said than done. But I realize that I don't need to have a bunch of possessions in my life in order to be happy. Sometimes, it's better to let go of stuff, in order to have an improved quality of life.

[@KRoseB]

Very nice re-work Bob! Cozy & practical. Happy Trails!

[@darkwhitedirewolf]

I am a Clutter oriented person as well, grin. Great layout Bob, practical and functional, works for you as your home, all is good.

[@Mackyoh22]

Well done Bob & Cody! Looks great! All credit to Diane too, fab work. Always feel so happy after I've watched you Bob and especially when Cody jumps in with that great big smile. 😂 Inspiring as always! I'm putting a drop leaf table on the back door of my little Ford Transit Connect so that I can sit out the back n have my coffee in the morn with my little dog and honestly, you'd think I'd built the Eifel tower as I feel so chuffed! Keep those great videos coming Bob& keep on truckin pal, you're the best!❤

[@maxinee1267]

Wow what a great build, love the counter and looks like you have everything except a bathroom, and or toilet.