COMPACT & HIGHLY FUNCTIONAL MWB Crafter Self-Build ⚒️🚐 Built for FULL-TIME VANLIFE

[@NateMurphy]

Thanks for watching! 📖 Get the Van Conversion Guide here: bit.ly/2WERxIN 🚐 FREE Parts List: bit.ly/2ZypQE0 Don’t forget to Subscribe for more! Thanks

[@Janawhitej1]

How much did this cost you in parts Because I'd probably have to pay my friend to help me to do it awesome mate I was gonna buy the phev or ev But don't know how they are for long range still considering it

[@leninha5549]

I am a woman from(now) 68 and, am travelling around every year,(for15 years now) for several months with my car and caravan.. On my own.. Never had any problem.. Had a dog but she died after 15 years.. Travelling alone is sad every now and than however, going at the campsides during the nights, makes travelling like this nicer(for me though)... Enjoying my life like this and using every second... Am thinking of buying a campervan also.. a small one.. Have a joyful life you all... 🙋‍♀️🙏

[@4legs4paws55]

Finally an efficient and down to earth design without instagramable nonsense. Love it!

[@faith_brown]

I love how this design left a large open space in the center

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks , you can easily have 4 people socialising in the van with the swivel seat turned round and then their more space on the bed 🙂

[@SatumainenOlento]

@@ScoobieDee Yes! Super good layout! Maximum usage of the layout!

[@gedison5551]

@Scoobie Dee - Also quite like the layout of your van, and the wood flooring - ceiling balance. That open space is very inviting. Doesn’t look cramped. Great size for a fridge ... and those spice jars doubling as controls for it, ingenious! (Or, is the fridge doubling as a mini-spaceship, to bug out with Scoobie if things get too weird on Earth?) 😉 So, that swivel passenger seat is a “double” size? Haven’t seen those before, but looks super comfy. I’ll be looking for one of those when I get to my van build. Of course, over here, across the pond, passenger seat will be on the other side of the cab area. (You know, the “right” side.) Enjoyed your sense of humor and very down-to-earth style of communicating; will check out your channel on KZbin, and maybe Instagram. Shout out to Scoobie! She seems like a delightful and sweet - if slightly frenetic - companion. At 1 year old, she’s really still a puppy. (Considering whether I’d travel with my cats, or a single cat, or if I need to get a dog. Fortunately, have some time to make that decision. Won’t consult the cats. 🙀)

[@neybelladl8024]

@@SatumainenOlento eery ko

[@traciwilliams5673]

Yes ! I love all the space!!! I could do this !!!!!😀

[@Pshady]

I could see this guy working in television, smooth watchable delivery

[@susie9893]

Yeah I agree. Despite the fact he often didn't know the terms for various items you just felt like it didn't matter and that HE wasn't bothered by not getting it right (and he probably does know all the right terms but just a bit nervous - but it still worked)

[@BoomBoom_ChuckyChuck4559]

I could see him doing very well in different areas... 🤗🤫😉

[@munecamorena7529]

I agree!

[@danskbb]

He just did

[@holyfox94]

They would have already cancelled him for the Mont Blanc tunnel joke😉 It was a good a good one, though.

[@kichapi]

Daren can make a self-help podcast and I'll be one of his first listener. He exudes calm confidence and wisdom in his voice that whatever he says never gets boring. I'll try to follow you advice! In a few years time.

[@clairecarlson3121]

Yes! Somewhere to comfortably lounge which isn’t a bed! Love the couch.

[@esra2146]

I not only liked the van but also enjoyed the way he talked about his van:)

[@judil3294]

Yes, it suddenly struck me, that most of the time I want the people to get off camera and just show the project, but he's just so comfortable to listen to. I never once felt like wanting him to get out of my face.

[@kismetau]

Judy S l agree. He has a lovely soothing voice.

[@SatumainenOlento]

Yes, I could have kept listening and watching him for a bit longer!

[@BoomBoom_ChuckyChuck4559]

Yes He has a very sexy smooth voice

[@layde1]

This is a comfortable, gorgeous van (and man) after my own heart. And what a beautiful, stylish little teapot.🌷

[@djahant]

I love this layout the best! Especially with the sofa. I loved the paper lantern too! I would need a loo as you call it because I'm older and have to use it every night. No shame in my game. LOL. I see he had a jar behind the drivers seat for just such an occasion.

[@abcxyz3783]

Cuppa tea shelf and tea collection " because it's all about the tea" ... Be still my heart. Where were you thirty years ago. You are just stinkin' sweet.

[@ifitistobeitisuptome]

I have absolutely NO IDEA why this video has had 400 dislikes??? Seriously what is peoples problem? The van is good, the owner & presentation is good. The filming & editing is also good! So honestly why 400 people disliked it is beyond me!! People are just jealous sometimes I think!

[@kiriakiria9685]

Totally agree with you!

[@darci12u]

Loved this tour so relaxing Didn't give me anxiety... Loved the Van..especially the kettle.

[@shellyjay8954]

Very spacious. Finally a van you can freely move about. Excellent conversion.

[@susans7091]

Darne, the perfect van for a single and a dog! My Spoo would love it, and so would I, at 75 years old:) So sweet to see you with Scoobie.

[@aaronharris5275]

Interesting guy, nice to see someone of similar age talking about his van life experience. Great van too!

[@susie9893]

Yeah I was thinking same. Most van lifers seem to be either pretty young or retirees so it was great to finally see someone I could relate to more easily

[@adamwalker7338]

Excellent advice from your friend. Nobody needs half inch plywood to hold up a box of wheatabix.

[@susie9893]

This guy was very easy to listen to. So nice and positive but laid back too. Really interesting how he described his reasoning behind his van build and also his reflection of how he feels it worked out. Would be great to catch up with him again in a year to see how it's all going and whether he thinks it's still working (I liked Nate's recap episodes describing what had worked and hadn't)

[@ScoobieDee]

Sound like a good idea 💡

[@gloriamariadc7757]

Omg he’s so good at describing his experience. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@ScoobieDee]

Hey thanks Gloria

[@kwombok]

The couch + rotating bench + sliding table design is really smart, tremendous use of space and great flexibility. Very slick build!

[@ThePrinspascal]

rotating bench ? how ?

[@flybeep1661]

The weight distribution however is a concern. He has all the weight to one side. There's actually nothing on this build that puts weight on the other side to counter it. While it's a nice open and smart design, it's not the safest and I bet on a level road this van will look slightly tilted to one side.

[@lifemyway200]

@@ThePrinspascal the front passenger seat

[@dianeb7526]

I live your build and your philosophy about this lifestyle. Keep enjoying yourself with your lovely dog! I will subscribe, thank you.

[@lasharonbrown9454]

This is one of my favorite van tours; honest host & efficient conversion. Makes me want to hang out with Scoobs! 🐕

[@nurgulzhunussova3687]

After watching so many videos I finally found something what almost fitting my needs. So clever to use front seats to clear additional living space. Thank you for sharing.

[@jenniferh.7219]

This guy is like a 2020 Mr Rogers without the vest. He gives the 'Would you like to be my neighbor~' Vibe & Yes, Yes I would

[@lms4778]

LOL

[@blackstarblues9055]

Yes! I think I would feel safe & calm in his presence. Love the layout of his van. The space & seating are great.

[@zarty8121]

Spacious design yet with sufficient storage spaces everywhere.. Score 10/10

[@michellegreen2994]

Thanks handsome man for showing the van display. Did I miss your shower set up, and toilet review? Beautiful dog 👍🏾😁

[@lindathompson4770]

Very Nice! Agree dogs are great ice breakers for meeting people. I thought Scoobie was an Irish Setter pup....She's a sweetie! I'd have to put the little shelf for morning tea on the other side of the clothes closet. I'd spill it for sure trying to get it across the bed!

[@ceciliapulido9303]

Thks for that, so refreshing to see a mid age person go for van life and do their own conversion... gives me incentive and encouragement!

[@soft566]

A

[@xD-lt1mq]

Finally a normal dude with a conversion van and not 2 'digital nomads' yuppies.

[@tgee7485]

Haha, for real.

[@Michael-4]

Just what I was thinking. With the woman bending over in her thong to show you her pot cupboard. This guy is really down to earth.

[@xD-lt1mq]

@@Michael-4 Imma need a link to verify 👀👀

[@milkeyway7105]

@@Michael-4 nomadic movements? There are a lot of normal van lifers though

[@Astridos78]

@@Michael-4 WHAHAHAHAHAAA!!! Yes, that.

[@rasmusvestergaard7580]

This guy seems like a really decent fella! Great job with the van.

[@theguylevi]

Also being a lone middle aged man, its nice to see others in the swing of van life. Some day...😁🤞🏻

[@teenyleek1233]

Great design and daniel... well I would happily watch him for hours, beautifully spoken, good character and lovely spaniel

[@Horsewoman725]

Beautifully presented by what seems like a beautifully configured person. Wonderful!

[@katlyn0320]

I’m 23, have barely traveled at all in my lifetime and I want to do this so bad. I am becoming addicted to these videos. I feel like I should do it in a year when I graduate or I won’t have another chance. Like he said, there are only so many years so take the opportunity!

[@sdgidney4139]

I traveled in station wagons with my parents and on my own the traditional way cars, airplanes and hotels in my 20's & 30's. However after watching these videos, my son is seriously interested in van life after college. My family prefers he doesn't, but he has the rest of his life for rent and mortgage. If you do it just be safe. Everyone doesn't have to vlog, but if you do make it a week or two after you leave. Blessings, health and safety ❤️

[@unknnoowmaxence6309]

Maybe starting by learning traveling around your place. People always wanna cross the world but forgot the beauties there is next doors

[@Ramdapanda]

I'm turning 31 in a month and I'm just now thinking of getting a van. Not to live vanlife though but to go on weekends and maybe a couple of weeks vacation with. Did a couple of backpacking trips when I was 25-28 years old after working for a couple of years post graduation. Point being there will be more chances if it's something you really want to do. Whis you all the best!

[@suefreivald7031]

started traveling with our little Casita (not full time, but several months at a time) a few years ago at 80! So with good health, never too late to begin.

[@meggmegg6656]

Love the design. Seems much more spacious than many. Love the dog.

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

But he had a pee jar under his drivers seat !!!

[@donnamount151]

Make lined short curtains for ur windshield like they have for motorhomes. They wrap around side windows and windshield....

[@berenicejade3489]

omg I could listen to him talking for hours. Love his energy, wisdom and cute accent. And Scoobs is so adooorable :)

[@ScoobieDee]

Berenice Jade hi ... so come over and check out the other Scoobie Dee vids 🙂

[@ladym2398]

The advice he gave was absolutely on point. Why wait? If your the time becomes available, take it and see as much of the world as possible.

[@littlemisssunshine2931]

Loved your van, especially the tea pot (you're right it is all about the tea) and the blinds. Couldn't believe the blinds were from Ikea; they looked like proper van blinds. Scooby is a star. Lucky you for having her. Thanks for sharing.

[@theresamendez8204]

Very created. Instead of the closet you could of built the bathroom on the other side of the kitchen cabinet where the stove is. But I must say it looks beautiful and spacious. Enjoy traveling.

[@JK-ns5dr]

I love everything about this video. The layout of the van, his attitude, and of course the doggy.

[@ruthh3496]

When his dog came in & his whole tone changed 🥺🥺🥺😂 loveddd this build & always exciting to see a fellow brit livinv van life haha x

[@chumneywarner8147]

Love the van Nate, simple and effective layout but most of all as a fellow middle-aged man, looking to make the most of our precious time, you've inspired me. 👍

[@andya1976m]

I love it! I have also a dog and I love this layout. Also "the middle age guy" 😜

[@genitagray6126]

I watch these videos all of the time & this lay out is the best! I’d have to have a bathroom, though, so I’d need a longer van. Great job!!!

[@fightingtosurvive6527]

My Jack Russell, Barkley has a crush on Scooby! 🐕💕🐕

[@christophermoraitis3500]

What a wonderful video. I've watched lots of these tour videos and finally someone a bit more my age doing his thing. Cheers from America

[@cathrinekjeldsberg415]

Such a nice video with the man and the dog! Really nice camper, good luck with everything!

[@christopheroagor3236]

Totally enjoyable , from a guy who hasn't got a clue ! My new lady friend has the exact same van model and is processing the possibility of a conversion , so your fab video couldn't have been more timely. Many thanks and more power !!

[@mikemanjo2458]

Love this build. I really like this guy’s explanation...knowledgeable, easy to listen to...great job! (Jane in SC) Sweet traveling companion!

[@zaradimple3980]

You have done so well, you have utilised every inch of space in that van, very cosy especially you have a good companion, a dog is always a comforting loyal friend.

[@kwong6884]

It’s nice to see a MWB conversion & some IKEA hacks! Daren has done a great job & eased a lot of my concerns about my future MWB van & UK weather

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks K, glad you enjoyed the tour

[@ashleyburton8605]

Do what makes you happy! This guy really does sum it up well, Good looking van also

[@ronjacobe]

You are not judged by what you do, but by the smile you have. That is wonderfully said. You seem like a lovely guy with your lovely dog. Kudos to Scooby for setting up ahead the tone before you meet people, lol.

[@Scouseandyjay]

Incredibly interesting bloke, I think his own channel will do really well!

[@helenmanning9709]

Ah here ....you need your own programme !! I sincerely hope i meet Scoobie dee on the road sometime . I'm just getting ready to start my own conversion and take my life on the road... Having raised a fabulous and adventure loving family its now time for me to show them age is just a number .... i cant wait ...but mostly Im so excited at the prospect of converting and customising my own van . Thank you for sharing your space with us !

[@ScoobieDee]

Helen Manning that’s great news Helen. Both Scoobie and I wish you all the best for your conversion and van trips .

[@dan_ll]

Thanks for this Scoobie Dee. How wonderfully refreshing and really inspiring this is. Super conversion btw.

[@danaolson9708]

Thank you enjoyed watching. Will look you and scooby up!

[@rosegordon4297]

Best layout I have ever seen and you have a lovely relaxing voice, beautiful doggie too

[@suziebarry2546]

Great build, lovely easy listening voice, top job 👍🏻🌟👌👏

[@traciwilliams5673]

I love the open space! It’s all nice and simple with all the necessities! I could do this one !,, love it 👍🏽

[@PYC000]

Beautiful dog. The best company ever. Nice van. I like seeing the bench turnaround vs. the single seat.

[@alisonshanahan9529]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video, great conversion, love the double seat that turns it really does make the whole van feel larger inside. Scoobie is gorgeous, you're both having a wonderful time. Enjoy.

[@dobermannbella]

Beautifull! Love dogs too. I have dobermanns. Excellent video. Hugs from argentina!

[@scottyg9167]

I think this is probably the most relevant, inspirational and cool videos on this I’ve seen. Not to mention the content and conversion! So functional and clean! Rock on, Scoobs!

[@whatsupkylaanddadofficialc8147]

i love the way this rv was designed... i been watching rv's for years, this is the only got my thumbs up, no clattering and very spacious....

[@56beverley]

I have seen loads of these but just come across you. You come over as a lovely chilled human being so have subscribed for the first time. Love your video.

[@marchenderson8165]

Most suitable conversion for myself I've seen so far. I'll be taking notes 📝 Thank you! 😊

[@sandyellis6068]

Thank you! Best layout I’ve seen. Perfect for what I need. Very kind of you to share this video with us 😊

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks Sandy , glad you enjoyed it

[@lan6686]

Hands down one of favorite van layouts. Simple but comfortable without shrinking the inside with structural clutter.

[@coratheexplorer1824]

I just love the way British do and explain van tour straight to the point and no nonsense blablabla compare to American.

[@TheKatherine1958]

I like this build and this guy AND his 🐕! Well done.

[@jazperfatsso707]

San Miguel Beer!!!! ...this man has great taste, ...love this Crafter...brilliant build.

[@y62rig21]

SMB!!!

[@hildejohnson8780]

Well stay safe out there I'm glad you're doing what you love doing and one of these days I'm going to be out there in trouble because I'm tired of being stuck here in my house I'm going to do what I love being outdoors ever since I was young so be safe out there and I love your dog to you so cute happy traveling

[@lovisasoderstrom3955]

I love the wardrobe, I’ve been trying to find a way to include a wardrobe in my build and that layout is perfection

[@janetplanet5677]

I loved the whole video, but the bit at the end where he just speaks freely about his own experience and wisdom was such a bonus! Something very special about people who love animals, especially dogs- he was so right about how dogs do the work for meeting people! I have to say hello to EVERY dog I see, to the annoyance of those who dont understand but I have met so many interesting lovely people through dogs, and met so many lovely interesting dogs!! This guy will probably be working in tv soon, so i am glad I've seen him before fame changes him lol x thanks for such a lovely video.

[@tamo9520]

"Bits 'n Bobs" absolutely love the analogy!

[@angelanicholson951]

Very nice. But you need a horizontal bar (Wood) at the bottom of your table leg to stabilise it better. I love Scooby!!! I used to have an original VW camper. Orange and cream. Amazing. Dogs are the best company. Exciting.

[@stefanhansen5882]

Wonderfully and eloquent presentation. Really inspirational. Thanks!

[@jolewis9478]

Brilliant! Im a middle aged woman in my van wiv my little springer spaniel/miniture poodle cross! It is fantastic! my dog Spoodle loves it too! We both love the outdoors & its like living outside with your cosy frontroom with you! This is a lovely conversion, hope you both have lots of fun adventures! - I bought a ready made Toyota highace minibus conversion with pop top, best thing i ever bought (apart from my lil Noodle of course!) The two of them compliment each other beautifully! lol. best wishes. x

[@jeffreyzain]

That table gives me anxiety - apart from that, I love his van.

[@bishouneng415]

It gave me scoliosis vibe, jk lmao I love this guy hes so calming

[@SD-hs2pk]

Yea, can't reach all 4 people

I don't laugh often enough-Thanks, man!

[@annikachristensen4323]

Right?! One bump and down goes the table setting LOL I love the build though!

[@jamesmcsparron]

Screw on two folding legs to each corner instead of the single middle one? Anxiety gone!

[@tina-xp3pk]

I love both of them, and the layout too

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks Tina

[@michaelputnam7223]

I’ve rewatched this video like 10 times. I think 5 of those were for the floor plan and build quality. The other 5 were for the guy. Awesome video and cool vib!

[@irenedale5256]

What a great van! Thanks for showing it to us. 💕🐾

[@kingdomthings9887]

Check out the RV blind/screen combos, for windows. Pull it down for screen and up for blinds, or in between for a combo 🙂. Like your van, but I would need a toilet & shower. Your 🐕 is so cute! Doesn't look like a Cocker Spaniel. She looks like a Red Irish Setter, mixed with another small breed. Enjoy your travels 😁. Goodbye Scoobs 👋

[@peachygirl2374]

I agree I would need at least a bio toilet

[@anapeterson9709]

I am already inspired, but spending way too much time day-dreaming with these videos! I need one of those who knows what they're doing to give a hand and get my conversion done. Thanks for sharing.

[@CarrieRay]

You have a great van design and it looks comfortable and easy to live in. Nicely done!

[@michellestratford9753]

What a lovely van, dog and man😚 For someone who says he has no experience building he did an amazing job!! 😚🚙🇨🇦

[@ScoobieDee]

Thankyou Michelle

[@vivlove5221]

I really want a van and I’m really small .. seeing how you’re able to stand in the van shows me I’ll have so much room ✨🙆🏻‍♀️

[@susie9893]

Also maybe you could go smaller. I dream of doing an suv conversion even tho I'm not so small. More versatile - can go off road but also more stealth. Just a thought

[@manie54321]

Thank you Nate. I really enjoyed watching this video.

[@neilmawdsley4251]

what a nice Guy ! you should be a presenter on TV ,great to listen to ,love the van

[@berreverhaegen5996]

This is one of the better van tour builds and videos.

[@peletonpete]

Great video, really inspiring and insightful. Really like the vibe of your van, great job too. Good luck to you and Scoobie on your adventures! Safe travels.

[@JB-zc4qy]

So Nice to meet you. Happy trails!

[@precisiont5188]

Your dog is amazing. Great van design and implementation.

[@nadinemarchand7288]

Full well practical and well made. Congratulations

[@NothusDeusVagus]

Scoobs is a lovely pup. Neat van, clearly kitted out the way you want it... I like the Teapot.

[@nstheboss]

Another good reason to keep the cab open is incase of the need to escape danger in the night.

[@flybeep1661]

One of the most intelligent and optimized designs I've seen. Been looking at ideas for a year to build my own (full time van life) van specifically for a medium wheel base crafter (or sprinter). I'll base my design on this one. For the bed I'd have a problem as I'm 186 cm and wouldn't fit there. However I would fit diagonally on it so no worries. I'll probably incorporate some modular sliding extension to extend the bed when in sleeping mode so it could fit two people (if necessary). For solar I would install a much more beafier system looking at 3 regular solar panels (non flexible, about 700 watts total) and 500 amp lithium battery bank (instead of AGM) for a budget of about 10.000 eur which should be enough. I calculated total budget at about 40.000 eur roughly (45.000 at the absolute max) with 17.500 eur for the van (fresh second hand), 10.000 eur and 12.500 eur for the internal build including fridge and other devices. I'm guessing it should be enough. Still saving up though still have 20 months of saving to do till I reach the needed budget.

[@lorenzogasparroni8670]

Fly Beep on this design, where would you fit toilet and shower?

[@flybeep1661]

@@lorenzogasparroni8670 Shower can't be a fixed room in the van, it's wasted space imho. However I plan on using the open space in front of the couch as a shower. On the roof there would be hooks to hang a shower curtain and the bottom would have a false floor with grooves to mount slats, underneath the false floor there would be a water runoff that leads the water to a grey water tank underneath the van. I've seen this idea in another van build and it's ideal for this van because of the open space in it. The toilet would be a compost toilet and would probably place it where the fridge is. The fridge itself would be place where the water is but it would be a top loader for which the top of the fridge also acts a counter space. The water tanks (clean and grey water) would be situated underneath the van. Also, the van would be slightly bigger and the couch would be modular as part of a clickable extension of the bed. Since I'm 6ft2 I can't sleep width wise. I've also decided not to use a sprinter or a crafter but rather something like a Fiat ducato or a similar van from either renault of citroen. These vans are boxier than a crafter or sprinter which typically are more narrow at the top.