Bed design mistakes (van conversion)

This video about minivan conversion, and van conversion, highlights what I think are 18 bed design mistakes. Often, at first look, things look great, but ultimately, some aspects of a bed may not be that convenient...
In the video, you will be able to see parts of my converted minivan. If you want to learn more about the overall conversion, you are invited to watch my van tour:
• Van Tour: DIY conversi...
This video is also part of a playlist about van concepts:
• Eric's: van concepts
On my channel you will also find a playlist about van conversion technics:
• Eric's: conversion tec...
…and another one about Trips and Tips:
• Eric's: trips and tips
Give me some feedback! It is so much more interesting for me when I get feedback from you. I also really appreciate knowing from which state or country you have just watched my video.
This channel is based on decades of experience. Everything explained is authentic, genuine, and fully tested. Take note that I am not sponsored by anyone. You have my honest and raw opinion.
Synchronized captions are available in English and in French.

[@Wabajak13]

"you may be bachelor now but hopefully you may not stay that way forever" love it.

[@PossiblyAlena]

I'm usually very bad at understanding people when they speak with an accent because my hearing comprehension is quite poor, but you spoke so clearly and at just the right speed that I was able to understand you perfectly! I really appreciate how careful you were to annunciate your words. Those tips were very useful, thank you!!!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you! I am very happy about your comment! 😃✌️

[@vikingcove]

I could not agree more ! Quite clear. Thank you very much.

[@mikewilliams1782]

“Hearing comprehension” is a great way of saying it! Accents, mumbles, and just generally hearing speech can cause me comprehension frustrations - seconding that Eric is easy to hear and understand, Thanks Eric!

[@livingmybestestlife]

Great video. The two things I don't agree with is not having a single bed and not being able to sleep sideways comfortably. Storage in a minivan is limited. Don't sacrifice your comfort because one day someone might sleep beside you. If you get a partner in your minivan, you can change your layout then. Until that point, create a single bed and enjoy your storage. Don't live for an imaginary person. And my Toyota Sienna is 68 inches across behind the front seats. Anyone 66 inches or shorter can sleep comfortably sideways.

[@felisaaero]

You have the best stickmen!!! The illustrations really make the point! 🤣🤣🤣

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

LOL thank you 👍

[@michaelbyron1166]

That sliding Seat-to-bed design is absolutely genius. Thank you for sharing this video with us. I wish safe and happy travels.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Michael! Your comment is very much appreciated 😃✌️

[@Ohwhale79]

*Fantastic* advise!!! Your scrunched up people illustrations are peak comedy! 😂

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

😃 thank you! 👍

[@endah9692]

YES ,, the scrunchy stick people gave a good laugh. THANKS 😊

[@micatnight2010]

If ever there was a KZbin channel required to watch for those interested in van life, this is it. Your videos are short, to the point and very informative. This one showed up in my feed last night and I have since watched all of them. One of the most refreshing aspects are their simplicity, the obvious desire to educate rather than entertain, the emphasis on fulfilling the intent (or "mission goal") of van life, the lack of self-glorification, and no advertising gimmickry using sex or drama (thank you for not titling your previous video, "Van Life - Almost Bitten By A Rattlesnake!" You sacrificed a million views for nothing more than integrity and my undying appreciation. Btw, that was VERY DRAMATIC. I re-watched all 12 seconds of it 3 times!). What you're doing are basically no frill PSA's for Van Life. What a brilliant idea. FYI - I'm from Florida. Planning on doing the van life thing to somewhere in Central America and possibly settling there. As far as video suggestions, I'd like to hear more about your electrical system, and more about the hygiene and procedural aspect of defecating where there's no facilities. Also, unless I somehow missed it, I never did see how you made your "shower cabinet" (I would call it a shower stall or enclosure). Keep up the good work!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your awesome comment! I really appreciate! I will definitely answer to your suggestions! This kind of appreciation comment is a great source of motivation! 😃✌️

[@barbarar.7833]

Eric, I have learned more from you than any other you tube site. I am q 72 year old single female in St. Louis Missouri presently saving to purchase a mini van to convert. I can't thank you enough for all the information that you share.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Barbara for this awesome comment! Do not hesitate if you have any questions! Enjoy planning your project 😃✌️

[@Vailya_]

I’ve been watching videos of people living in and building conversion vans for many years, and i have lived in conversion vans for years as well, and you have the best van life channel i’ve ever seen!! i could have saved myself so much time and money just learning these mistakes from you instead of living them!! so fantastic, i will be a rabid supporter for life now!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

This is an awesome comment! You made my day! Thank you Kamran! I am very glade to be of any help!😃✌️

[@DesertTuna]

😂 trooper

[@samsadwajedenesfuter5335]

Which is better - a combivan like Kangoo with taller roof or a combi car but longer for camping conversion??

[@Kerry6691]

By far the best van life camping videos on you tube. It is wonderful to see you Eric, thank you for the van bed tips.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Kerry! You made my day with such a great feedback! 😁✌️

[@SABCRAZY13]

I agree, Eric's videos are fantastic

[@MarijkeWillemsen990]

I love your bed design and the fact that you can just push the bed stuff to the back, also the bench is very practical!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

I really love that too! So easy! Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@miknad88]

Tes vidéos sont claires et concises, et ayant beaucoup voyagé avec un Westfalia dans le passé, il est évident que tu maîtrises ton sujet. En une soirée à regarder tes vidéos, j'ai appris tout ce qu'il me fallait pour faire ma conversion. Internet se porterait mieux avec plus de KZbinurs comme toi. Merci.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Quel beau commentaire! Merci beaucoup 😊✌️

[@WillN2Go1]

Brilliant video. I car camped through Scotland in a small BMW hatchback. With my air mattress, the back seats down there was a few more inches than my body length (5'8" 173cm) Seemed comfortable enough. I wound up having a lot of cramps and Iliotibial band syndrome IBS (where my knee became swollen and painful because of knots in my butt and thigh muscles). I couldn't really tell the difference between the car and my tent, but my body sure could. Ruined that part of the trip. I couldn't walk. (After I rolled out the tight spots with my stainless steel coffee mug I was cured.) So your test procedure is spot on. (And it's good practice to learn how to sleep anywhere. I once lived above a disco. This year I spent three months sailing in the front cabin of a catamaran that was bouncing, slamming, rocking in 2 to 3 m waves. I slept like a baby. Probably because of the 6 months getting used to the disco.) "Gotta be quick and easy." And who cares what it looks like behind the day couch? Great points. Efficiency. Idiots are the ones who are always suggesting you should be neater. I can't imagine what I would've missed or not accomplished because of housework. I've never attended a funeral where housework was a key topic. About mattresses. 1. Memory foam. 4 inches is more than enough for any but the heaviest person. I have this in my home, on my boat and in the back of my Tesla. 2. If you don't have a lot of room, or you're traveling get an air mattress. I've used the Klymit for years. Very comfortable. 3. Tie a piece of paracord to the air pillow, run it around the mattress and tie it on the other side so the pillow doesn't move. Don't bother with the padded dry bag stuffed with t-shirts. I've done this, it works, but even the long distance back packers who cut the handles off their toothbrushes to save weight all end up with air pillows. 4. If you have a little extra space, bring your favorite home pillow. 5. Sleep on your side, better for you, easier to breathe, no snoring. I disagree about sleeping bags. Sleeping bags are just part of a wide range of options. Always use a bag liner - this eliminates the need for washing the sleeping bag, it also extends the temperature range. (I spent part of last night in my home bed in a fleece liner I sewed myself. 1.5m of fleece, fold in half lengthwise, sew two sides. You're done. Fleece doesn't need edge seams.) On my boat I sleep with a sheet, a liner and a sleeping bag. Hot? just the sheet, a little colder, liner on top. Cold, foggy? liner in the bag. Always cozy, never have to make the bed. An SOL Bivy sold on Amazon for $25, with a liner, makes a terrific travel bag. Slept in one for a very cold month sailing across the North Pacific. The thing about liners, camping, hotels, hostels... it's a sack so it eliminates most bugs and dirt. It's a sack so there are no drafts. (I usually put on a merino top layer.) I think there are drafts in every bed. We don't notice them, but they still keep us awake. The liner sack eliminates this. (I live in California, desert, and I like the window open, so it gets cold every night.) Ergonomics. The best ergonomics is strong core muscles. When I was sea kayaking three times a week I had abs like a gymnast. Chairbacks, even in a car, were superfluous. Alas, I can no longer brag about my abs. Another sailor told me that you have to do some stretches and ab work everyday or you will have back pain. My back was starting to ache when he told me this. Bare minimum, you can do this in bed., on your back, bend your knees. all the way over to the right, then all the way over to your left... 1, again 2. Do this at least 100 times or until you can't. This and some leg stretches is the bare minimum. Lately I can't make it to 100 so my back gets a little creaky. On the long sail I was doing 200. Absolutely no back problems. (I've also got a Thule pod. One day at Moro Bay the seagulls picked it out of all the other cars parked by the Rock. It cost me $14 just to hose it off enough to use the van. There was not a spot of poop on any other vehicle. I think they didn't like seeing the big sea lion like thing on top of my white van.) I like the way you think.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your appreciation and for sharing about your experience 👍✌️

[@mtwata]

Are you the one who draws the explanations? They're so nice and simple! Another great video! Thanks Eric

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Yes I made them all. Thank you Marcos. I appreciate your feedback! 😃✌️

[@alanhat5252]

I agree, the animated stick-man figures work well

[@gus473]

👑 Eric, you are the undisputed King of DIY van conversion! Thank you! 🍻😎✌🏼

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

What an awesome comment! Thank you my friend! 😃✌️

[@lorimac0260]

I gave up on the bed construction when I found the zero gravity chair. Think about it! You can attach it to the floor. It reclines all the way back and there’s room for storage underneath it. Put a mattress topper on it. Easy peasy. This came about bc I have to store my mobility scooter beside it. And my van is only four feet wide. First I thought, maybe a small recliner, but I think this is better.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It seems you have fund the perfect solution for you! Great! Thank you for sharing an alternative for a different set up✌️

[@philleng480]

Neat video covering real life issues rather than where to put the 56 inch TV, and what sort of designer tiles to use in your van kitchen, all done by beautiful people in mega bucks vans! Diving at the end so double good - although when you do lots of stuff then where to put things is an issue, dive kit, climbing kit, astro kit all takes up space....lots of space. Thanks for that Eric.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Phil for your comment. Good perspective 👍

[@nedanother9382]

Oh my goodness. I spent most of 2020 trying to figure out the perfect buildout (to no avail of course) I have a full sized pickup with a tallish camper shell I built out. Just finishing now. I watch 250000 videos and yours is the first to show the bed style I "invented" to meet my needs. Awesome! The style is just perfect. It transforms so easily and gives you oodles of space when your not sleeping. I did not go as you did with a track system. The 3 sections of plywood I used were laid first on a base rectangle box, the second had only one edge one the base and the other with two short 2 x 4 legs and the 3rd section was on 4 legs and then all piano hinged at the far edge of the base. Just slides right out to a bed and then back up to a reclining chair. I had 50 inches of width space so I made two chair beds so one could remain a chair while the other was a single bed. Covered them both with a fur duvet cover abandoned by my daughter. Sooo luxurious and functional. The action is allowed because I stayed between the wheel wells. Super nice, stable, easy and roomy. cheers, thanks for sharing

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Great! Congratulation! I like to see people happy of their project. Thank you for sharing ✌️

[@lphepburn]

Sincerely Thank You for providing us your expertise, straight forward presentations, no selling or ad placement. You have chosen to help us all and for that I am loving a better vanlife! Again sincerest thanks!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your appreciation and the way you said it. I am definitely glade to help people achieve their dreams of Van life! Take care my friend✌️

[@MyTi824]

Excellent advice from someone who knows what is important and real life practical solutions for comfort. I love your stick figure demonstrations.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Darlene! This is an awesome comment 😃✌️

[@laureng743]

Thank you for your whole series Eric! Your suggestions on the design for a bed, for window covers, and for the overall layout design were so useful as I finished my minivan conversion this Spring. I watched and re-watched your videos as inspiration and I'm so happy you made the effort to have this information available!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It is a pleasure Lauren to publish videos and read comments like yours. Thank you my friend! 😃✌️

[@xiaogary3161]

this channel is way underrated!! much more helpful and practical than many other fancy videos....

[@dianastoevelaar9548]

Thank you, Eric for this very informative and well edited video illustrating your mini useful c suggestions! 😃 I am sure that I am amongst many grateful viewers, who are so happy to have discovered you and learn from your mistakes instead of making them ourselves. You’re a gem and I will be binge watching all of your videos now. 😀 Wishing you safe travels and much success in all your endeavors. 😁

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Merci beaucoup, Eric! When I start construction, your series will be one of my inspirations! I love your design philosophy, born of decades of experience.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you my friend! This is an awesome comment! Enjoy planning your van conversion 😃✌️

[@magpyeminifree5612]

Given the higher costs of gas and oil at this time your elegant van conversion is very timely. You are obviously skilled not only in woodworking but design also. Thanks for sharing.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for this awesome comment! I am very glade of it! 😃✌️

[@arleneportsmouth1263]

Okay so this video came up in my feed and I saw this video I am so impressed and I am now a new subscriber to your channel! I was so touched to see that you guys were posing in front of the Utah sign which I've never been able to do because I was always traveling alone from my work in Nevada to my home in Utah and then the icing on the cake at 10 minutes into the video at the very end you had a picture of Death Valley and that's the lonely road I had to drive to get to work for 9 years😢 I always thought for the last 25 years before I knew van living or camping was ever a thing I always had such a wonderful feeling having all these thoughts of Designing my van exactly how yours is designed all the way down to the sliding bed.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Welcome to my channel Arlene! Thank you for your comment. I appreciated readying it 😃✌️

[@petersimpson633]

Excellent video, I was set on a longitudinal bed, but now it's a folding sofa bed like yours for me, thanks for posting

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It’s a pleasure Peter. Thank you for your comment ✌️

[@robertphillips3893]

It is always good to hear your voice of reason in these matters. It is also good to see you explain why your build is the way it is. Thanks for sharing Eric.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Robert! I particularly appreciated that you commented on the why I build it that way. Understanding before doing something is always preferable. 👍

[@OlTommyBoy]

Best minivan conversion videos EVER! Great work Eric.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Thomas! You made my day! 😃✌️

[@debbiedebbie9473]

I was just thinking about you a few minutes ago and bam, here is your video popping up. Hope all is well with you and you're happy. 👍👍🙏

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Debbie for your thought. Everything is fine and fun, a video is on its way… I wish you the best ✌️😃

[@terryainsworth6614]

Excellent information that validates everything we have come across in our prius camping experiences. We have a 2024 Sienna van being delivered in April and your bed design is exactly what we want. Thanks so much for the video series.

[@TanselGaraj]

Wow, I was about to split my bed's under support wood longitudinal now I understand which is a big mistake 😂 God bless you, thank you!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It’s a pleasure 👍

[@skirato]

Hi Eric, great video as always. My van is almost an exact replica of yours and it's perfect ! So easy to make the bed at night and the sofa in the morning. No hassle, no rattle and everything is in reach !

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Great!!! Thank you Jonathan for sharing your success! I am glade to hear about it! You must be enjoying life in your Van!!! 😃✌️

[@lighthouseactingstudio9087]

Great info !! Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve watched so many videos on van build for many years. Your video is the most useful 😊!

[@philipstrachan6212]

Retirement approaches, so I will be converting my own van, a bit, so these videos have been invaluable. Some really good tips and words of wisdom. Thank you Eric!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your appreciation. Retirement… you will have plenty of fun time!!! Enjoy your van conversion project! 😃✌️

[@santiagoangulo]

Fantastic tips Eric. Hope to convert my mini van this summer and you are my main source of knowledge. Very kind of you. Merci!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Great! Enjoy your project. Thank you for your appreciation 😃✌️

[@rosshennett2169]

Your a brilliant man, thanks for your experience, helping people who may have to do this because of rising living expenses, your a true legend , can't thank you enough, from Queensland Australia

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Ross! Your comment means a lot to me. I really appreciate ✌️

[@gladwear]

I’ve been watching you since your first video and did a small build a year ago but I’m about to take your designs at heart and try out a full build for long term use, so, thank you so much for putting out your knowledge so people like me can explore the world in their minivans!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

This is such an awesome comment to me! First having feedback of my very first subscribers make me very much happy! It’s feel like you share my KZbin adventure! Also, I always appreciate when people share their experiences and project. And mostly you put the finger on what is my goal with my channel, which is helping people achieving their goal of traveling the world!👍😁 Don’t hesitate to ask questions my friend! 😃✌️

[@beverlyburrell2665]

I love you build. Thank you so much. Where did you find the mattress?

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Any mattresses store will have that kind of mattress. The best is to try them in store before buying...

[@pp-dj9pq]

Greatly appreciate sharing of your know how ... really impressive minimalist and exceptionally practical build. Looking forward to your future projects. All the best.😊😊😊😊😊

[@claudiaocteau3946]

Great great information in that video for the design of a bed, and more...so to enjoy the daily use of the van.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Claudia for your great feedback! You made my day! 😃✌️

[@rolliebca]

Great to see you again Eric! Thanks for another great video. Looking forward to the next one. Cheers.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Rolland! Great comment! 😃✌️

[@GlitchSystem-xf7jb]

Try telling my Ex girlfriend about the human body needing to move every 20 minutes. She get mad at me about not wanting to snuggle the whole night when i tried explaining to her that I can't sleep in one position all night

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

LOL I am glad to help you on that one! 😉

[@kremepye3613]

Dump her

[@eyetrollin710]

How you sleep together says huge things about your relationship I've had boyfriends that every time we move at night we can't stop touching each other we'll go to sleep cuddling one way and wake up cuddling another way and it was like that year in and year out,, my last boyfriend gas lit me about everything including cuddling apparently he couldn't fall asleep touching anyone,, too bad he did it for the first 3 months,, if you don't want to touch someone and your body isn't drawn to them just do everyone a favor and leave

[@EctoMorpheus]

​@@eyetrollin710sucks for you to have had that experience, but not being able to sleep together with someone else is a valid issue. I have enough sleep problems on my own, and as much as I may be into my bed partner, I cannot function without sleep. Cuddling the whole night sounds great but I need space to move around.

[@ceceliam9014]

​​@@eyetrollin710Calm down, and don't use "gaslighting" when you don't understand what it means. There are people who very much love each other who can't touch at night or even prefer not to share a bed. Different people have different sleep preferences and demanding someone adhere to yours as proof that love you is incredibly controlling behaviour. Hopefully you learn how to be a more understanding partner in the future. All the best. (Though I suppose, now that I see your name, you're just a troll)

[@hobbes32]

Thank you Eric for all your informative and detailed videos. They greatly influenced me to build my first minivan weekend camper from a Toyota Tarago. I used an Ikea double mattress that I cut down a little on the width and a square aluminium construction of the bed base from connect-it hardware from bunnings with a hinged plywood top to form the sofa/bed.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

You are doing pretty well! Congratulation for this cool vacation toy! If you have questions, do no hesitate ✌️

[@claytonbigsby1]

I am about three weeks away from starting my build. Thank you so much for making this video, there was some obvious things, but there were a lot of details I never would have thought to consider. I know these videos are a lot of work and I really appreciate you taking the time to do them. Safe travels

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

You bet it’s a lot of work!👍 I really appreciate to read appreciation about that aspect! Thank you Scott, and thank you for your appreciation. Enjoy your new project. There’s a lot of fun to realize it!😃✌️

[@claytonbigsby1]

@@ericenjoysearth2756I'm gonna learn how to make some vids, I'll send you some pics from the road!

[@bigion2007]

Eric, I really enjoy your videos, please put more of them out there. Looking forward to seeing the next video. 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Angel! I really appreciate your comment! 😃✌️

[@dfros1957]

I love your van Eric, it's the best I have seen. When I do my van I am using your build as a reference. Thank you 😊

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It’s a pleasure! I am glade to be of any help in your project 😃✌️

[@mjremy2605]

I love your videos, Eric! So glad to have found you. If others had not built your bed design I would never have seen your channel. It pays to share, eh? Your bed design is superb. I always favored the slat bed you pull out, but your design is better. I love the striped cover on your mattress, so lively. You are a great guy, thank you so much for sharing!!! You might enjoy Humble Road - a guy called George Mauro - in New Jersey. He builds pricey custom vans and shares his knowledge of materials and techniques and is so inventive, truly a genius. You would like his videos, although they are for larger vans, There is this guy in France, and he was showing how to tin copper pans on KZbin. A lot of people were interested, because if we can retin our old copper pans we can reuse them. Most of use cannot afford to contract this out. But for every simple question anyone asked him: What type of flux he used? Did he use fiberglass pad to spread the tin? What temps to heat the pan up to where flux would not burn? He came back with "it is too complicated to explain, it takes years to learn", and other feeble excuses not to share information. What a dick. I went online and in 5 mins had all my answers and listed them for those who asked. He did not like that. He wanted to be the King of Retinning. No wonder his channel had very few likes and subscribers. No one is going to compete with his business in France when we are here in the US and around the world! He will never grow or freely give of his knowledge. And he will never make international friends or learn from others.

[@rubyreyes3850]

Yeah Eric...another helpful video!!! We can’t wait to covert our van. Almost done with measuring & taking care of mechanical issues in two weeks. Thanks again!!🥾🥾🥾hike on! Travel on!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

On the edge of beginning! You must be eager to begin!!! My first motivation to sleep in a vehicle was because I was peak bagging. I really love hiking also! Thank you for your appreciation! Enjoy your project Ruby!✌️

[@Frankotronify]

tu as vraiment le meilleur design d'intérieur pour minivans. Tu dois avec fais beaucoup de recherche et d'expérimentation!!! Merci pour tes vidéos!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

J’ai fait cette conversion en 2018 (j’ai attendu une année avant de partir mon Channel). À l’époque il y avait énormément moins de conversion de petits véhicules. J’ai été un pionnier de la conversion de la minivan toute équipée. Il fallait trouver à tout introduire dans nettement plus petit! Ce sont des projets très intéressants et stimulants! Merci Franko pour ton appréciation 😃✌️

[@CLdriver1960]

Merci Eric! As always, your videos are among the most informative on YT!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you my friend!😃✌️

[@BeccifromOz]

Thanks for another great video,Eric. I’m guessing I’m not the only one who looks forward to each and every video you release

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

So cool comment! Thank you! 😃✌️

[@hangtough503]

Excellent video. “Measure twice, cut once” Loved this. Subscribed. D🤙🇺🇸

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Cool! Welcome to my channel Hang! Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@luisaraujo4708]

Your ideas are a literal goldmine. Thank you!!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Glad you like them!👍

[@1motorandy]

Hello Eric. I've built your bed for a Dodge Caravan. It works perfectly. Thank you for the videos. All the best from Phoenix Arizona.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Randall! I really appreciate having people’s feedback about their project! Congratulation! You must be happy! I am for you!!! 😃✌️ I love Arizona! What an awesome place to Van life!👍

[@Redarkrome]

Hi Eric, it's always a pleasure see you and watch your videos. You have more experience and your tips are so usefuls! Thanks so mutch for sharin. I send you my best greetings from Northwest Italy 🇮🇹 Ciao! Dario

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Dario! This is an awesome comment 👍😃

[@hsgjkhagljkh]

I generally agree with the tips. Since I work full-time remotely, having ample head space was super important for me. So I have a 4-inch foam mattress which folds out across the floor (which is 4 inches high, so that's only 8-10 inches). The layout works great for my senior dog to easily get around the van and stretch out. Folding up the mattress isn’t difficult as I sewed clips/loops so it quickly converts into couch mode. And I can flip my couch any direction in the van. We all have to make compromises with our designs and this one I still don't regret (after a year of traveling). Living in Colorado, that sleeping bag is reeeeeal necessary on 30-40 degree nights!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Hello April! We all find our ways for what is best for us. That’s what you found! We have to listen to ourselves, it’s the way to our own happiness. «Own happiness» also include your senior dog who is part of the family! Effectively in freezings conditions I had a sleeping bag to my bed set up! At some point, just sheets and duvet are not enough. Thank you April for sharing your set up and experience. It is much appreciated 👍✌️

[@hsgjkhagljkh]

My pleasure Eric. :) Thanks for supporting me sharing my perspective.

[@moipersist]

absolutely genius. Well thought through and explained. I feel like you've lived or seen all mistakes so that I don't have to!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you D! I really appreciate your comment 😃

[@nomad_wannabe1912]

I absolutely loved this. I’m planning on getting a Sienna and doing a van build. I like that you didn’t modify the van so you can sell it if needed. That’s what I plan on doing. I’m going to watch the rest of the videos. They’ll be so helpful.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your comment and sharing about your project! You will enjoy your converted van so much! …and the conversion project also! It’s all fun! 😃👍

[@noneyabiznas3590]

Fantastic advice. I find myself having to go the minivan life route for a while and had no idea where to start. Thanks!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Right place to start! Thank you for your appreciation 😃✌️

[@PeaceAndLove1234]

Great video - thank you for sharing your experience ! I like the bright colors ! Greetings from Shanghai !

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Rico! I really like it also. I can not get tired of it! Shanghai! Wow! This is cool! 😃✌️

[@tsescoff]

Love your videos! Truly educates from a scientific and practical point of view. Thanks Eric! 😊

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you! This is an awesome comment 😃✌️

[@cmgdurr8379]

Glad you’re back was hoping to see more and voilà…I’m heading out this year for a few months. Im excited.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Cool! I wish you the best! Thank you for your comment 😃✌️

[@ericbeauchemin2149]

Les meilleurs vidéo de construction de Van qu'il y a !!! Merci Eric 😁

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Merci Eric! Tu as fait ma journée! 😃✌️

[@jaxxentheexplorer4156]

Great video! So much wisdom pack into 10 mins. Thank you. Subscribed, looking forward to viewing more of your content.

[@alisonleigh]

This is SUCH a good, thorough, and well-explained video. Thank you so much.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It’s a pleasure Alison. Thank your comment 😃👍

[@SubZero-pv3pi]

Im planning to buy a van , and turn into a campervan for fishing. Your channel is so helpful to me and i like it , how u keep it simple and cheap! U have a new fellower and bell notification . I have watched so much video on vanlife.. Yours is by far the best!!

[@RadioactiveSaddam]

Great video for someone like me who are thinking of building a own camper. Thanks so much!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

I am glad that you appreciate ✌️😃

[@greggyboy86]

Great content! I've just layed a vinyl tile on plywood floor in my VW Touran and currently researching ideas for what sprt of bed and cabinets/storage to make. Your videos are a great help, thanks 👍

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

I am glade to be of any help with my videos. Enjoy planning your project 😃✌️

[@claudieborduas2939]

Vidéo très intéressante! 😀Je n'avais jamais figuré que le sens des divisions (plis) du matelas et l'espace d'air respirable entre le lit et le plafond du van pouvaient être aussi importants pour un bon confort! Votre vidéo démontre que l'on passe souvent à côté de petites choses fondamentales lors de la conception du lit. Vos explications sont simples et bien appuyées par les animations. Bravo! 👏🙂

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Merci beaucoup Claudie pour ton feedback et ton appréciation. Je suis très content que tu es apprécié! J’apprécie beaucoup ton commentaire 😃✌️

[@clydewilson8108]

great and thoughtful tips derived from real experience. the ones concerning the mattress of very appreciated

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thanks for your feedback! I am glade that you appreciate 👍😃

[@joseville]

Thanks for these videos. Your videos are always very informative and helpful!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Jose! I appreciate your feedback 😃✌️

[@etafood9491]

This really help.. I have been looking at van conversions and needed a fixed bed and fixed bathroom.. this really helped.. tq

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Great! I am glade that you appreciate! Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@etafood9491]

Thank YOU.. 😊

[@dayv33d]

nice to see you again man you rock!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Divad! I am always happy to release a video! 😃✌️

[@SandyCrack69]

Thanks for your videos, I’m starting my van conversion and whilst I watched a lot of build videos just before I was going to build my bed ( a slide out one ) I saw yours and changed my plans. What I didn’t like about the slide out version was that in lounge mode my head would be up against the side glass which would take away some comfort. I’ve built a working prototype that was very helpful in heights and sizes and I shall rebuild it in a few weeks time with better and lighter materials. Now that that is sorted I will start on the storage and bench top. The only thing I can’t easily ( and cheaply find ) is the aluminium extrusion you use for your table, although I have visited a few aluminium suppliers and pretty sure I can come up with a suitable replacement. Thanks for your inspiration

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Richard for your comment and sharing about your project! For the table’s rails, watch my video about it: kzbin.info/www/bejne/qYbLnXeBbpt8eZI You will find this rail easily at your RV store. It is surprisingly at a cheap price! Good thing that you ask about it in a comment! ✌️

[@donnareyes3199]

you have the most informative video about van conversion. well at least according to me. Kudos!

[@callieduval3000]

Thank you so much for these tips it's easy to like someone's build and expect yours to be the same all are different so customizing to yourself is something to consider.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Effectively! The idea of building its one van is to customize it to its own taste and functionality! Thank you for your comment Callie✌️

[@joaoamorim1424]

Another great video, with great suggestions! Thanks Eric.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Cool! I am glade that you appreciate João! Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@garybrown5769]

Literally Covered everything I could have thought about , best video on YT as said 💪🏻💪🏻💪🏻

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Gary! You made my day!! 😃✌️

[@OffGridAdventure]

Rattling cargo will drive anyone nuts. I love this video. The drawings help visualize some ideas. I have not had any issues with my narrow twin bed frame and trifold mattress sitting high in my Sienna. I also always use a sleeping bag over a fitted sheet. It’s too easy to roll up and move out of the way. Thanks!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for sharing your appreciation and set up! Here’s a tip about sleeping bag: you should not roll a sleeping bag, because when you fold it you always break the insulation fibre at the same place. It will lose its warm faster. It is better to stuff it in its bag. You will even save time doing it! ✌️

[@dirkgatsby]

I really appreciate these videos! They have helped me a lot ! Its amazing how many mistakes I have already made :)

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

It’s a pleasure my friend. Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@AdamFindNuts]

Enjoyed watching your videos. Thank you for sharing your experience. I agree with taking a practical approach, functionality over aesthetics.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Curiously, it is not necessarily the tendency when you watch van tour videos... Thank you for your appreciation Adam 😃✌️

[@alanhat5252]

I find that aesthetics often come more from final finishing than from initial design.

[@andrebujold1005]

Les meilleurs vidéos! Viens tu nous voir en Gaspésie en 2022!!! Merci Éric!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Merci André pour un si beau commentaire! La Gaspésie, ce n’est pas impossible! 😃✌️

[@senakandy6405]

Nice, practical info.Saves me time of not what not to do while building. Good info. Thank u bro.

[@jamblpaints8453]

I've built 3 car campers and I've made most of these mistakes. All good points

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for sharing your experience 👍

[@johncopetti1253]

Very sensible and very helpful. Thank you and all the best Eric

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you John! For this great feedback 😃✌️

[@SABCRAZY13]

Another fantastic video. Thank you Eric for making these videos. I will be redoing my ram van , hopefully, later this year. Really love your bed/cabinet design. Transferable is the best.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your feedback and sharing your point of view. In a ram van you will have so much space with that bed! Thank you also for your appreciation 😃✌️

[@alicsantiago6433]

Thank you for your advise,you answer all my silence questions.I respect your sperience ,thank you.

[@Dutcharmytent]

Content is first class, I converted three Jeeps like you have, they easily convert back again for normal use.

[@bendavies2990]

This is a fantastic video with really well thought through points!! Very helpful!

[@1966johnnywayne]

Practical considerations for the long haul...as opposed to the "what is going to photograph well" PinStagram crowd.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Great perspective 👍✌️

[@bevfitzsimmonds3382]

Thankyou for sharing your practical wisdom! I have subscribed from Australia. 🙂👍🦘

[@lenkazivkovic5218]

Thank you Eric for your time !! Amazing infos

[@marthamryglod291]

I can verify that being able to stretch fully is more important than excess width. I slept comfortably in a no-build 24" wide by 6'2" long sleeping area with the other room taken up by storage. My two big lessons were quick setup, and padding. In the summer, a fan and screened ventilation was mandatory.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

This is a good bed set up that I have used for years with my surfboards by my side. Effectively, stretching fully is essential! Thank you Martha for sharing your experience 😃✌️

[@AlexNoheda]

Thank you Eric again for all your tips! Always helpful! 🤙

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Alex! Your comment is much appreciated 😃✌️

[@persistent25u]

You have really good advice, a nice van, and nice video skills. Thank you for your content.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you for your feedback 😃✌️

[@angelaborgen9705]

You have some excellent thoughts and reasons for what you do. Thanks

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Angela! 😃✌️

[@nmartin5551]

I love your videos, Eric!!! Awesome as always!!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you! Great feedback! 😃✌️

[@lalou456]

Always extremely well thought out, Thank You Professor Eric!!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

LOL thank you my friend 😃✌️

[@polizovski]

Great tips, thanks for sharing. Great van build. Nice design.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Alex!👍

[@garymw646]

Hi Eric. Fantastic and insightful video on bed design. I am still designing my camper but the first thing to make work for me is the bed (#18). This is because my wife will not agree to go with me if the bed is not comfortable. I have tried 3 beds so far (#14). Thankfully Ikea has a generous return/exchange program. Finally, your video made me rethink my design as I need a good backrest (#3). For my own reasons, my couch design is along the side (vs. width). Thanks for sharing your experience.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Gary for you nice feedback! I think that this is part of the fun to search what we personally prefer. Inevitably, there is some research and development...✌️

[@martanigraphics]

As a mini van driver i love this!! Subbed!

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Welcome to my channel! Thank you for your feedback ✌️

[@suzettecalleja3122]

You always have the best information. Thank you.

[@ericenjoysearth2756]

Thank you Suzette for this kind comment 😃✌️