GRIDDLE ME THIS, WILL CAMPING EVER BE THE SAME?

[@jillcarlson2076]

Wow!!! That black rat snake!! So awesome! Thank you both. Keep safe. Another beautiful video! Love visiting with the three of you and your “friends”

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We appreciate you watching.

[@karenrogers6149]

Tony’s Ice Cream!!!! As a Gastonia, NC native I grew up going to there! No better place on this Earth has better ice cream than Tony’s. With all of our family still in Gastonia, we try to make it back as often as possible. Thanks for sharing this Owen & Lynn. Brought back a lot of happy memories!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

So glad we were able to bring back your great memories at Tony’s. We have a lot of great memories there as well. Thanks for watching.

[@commshopctr]

Living the dream! Excellent work, always enjoy... Thanks for sharing this video.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We feel very blessed to be living the dream. Thanks for sharing your comment.

[@pattyk8594]

I loved seeing Maggie swim! You can see her tail wagging even as she's swimming :o)

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love watching Maggie swim too. It makes us smile to see her happy. Thanks for watching.

[@hdlowrider5413]

Another great video. We were just up at Kings Mountain last year. The museum and the battlefield were awesome. It showed the British not to mess with those mountain boys. Huge turning point in the war. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸We love your part of the country.

[@hdlowrider5413]

I forgot to mention I worked for a company called Wallace Business Forms that had plant in Gastonia. That was many moons ago. I also have to say you have the best music selections on KZbin 👏🏻

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We didn’t get to see the museum and battlefield due to the closures. But the entrance was beautiful. I guess we will have to go back. So glad you enjoy the music. Thanks so much for watching.

[@penny_willow]

I enjoy watching your videos. I really like the little cargo trailer. I'm currently building out my van and can't wait to go on adventures.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We appreciate you watching. Good luck with your build that has to be pretty exciting.

[@mikemanjo2458]

Wow! We live near (and camp often) at KMSP! Maybe we'll cross paths one day! The chicken looked great! Way to go on the asparagus, Lynn! It looked great, too! BTW, We are loving our Lectric Bikes, too! The Living History Farm is so cool. They have a buffalo that's out there many times. Love the music you used "Come to the Water"! Another SC SP you might like is Chester SP...they also have a lake. Y'all made the paddle boards look easy! Y'all are so multi-talented! Great job on the curtains, Lynn! Hope you guys have a great week! (Jane) Loved your thoughts on being!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We would have loved to see the Living History Farm when it they were recreating history. We will have to go back there for sure as most of the trails were closed and the Military park was closed. Thanks for the suggestion for Chester SP, we will look into it. We appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@candiwiggins4293]

Loved the screen tent idea.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love the screened room, it gives us an extra place to hang out without bugs and with the sides it adds more privacy. We appreciate you watching.

[@VarmintHunters]

Another great video! The grounds around that historic farm looked truly remarkable! Loved the mature hardwood canopy & log cabins. Cheers guys.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I’m glad we were able to capture the beauty of the park. It was a real treat. Thanks for watching.

[@VarmintHunters]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle It looked like it. Have fun & stay safe.

[@davidstill7684]

Owen, very funny video. We also struggle with the question of a trailer. We opted no because of the added length. I would send you a pic if i can figure that out. We have a Harbor Freight carrier and Craftsman plastic tool box on the reece hitch. We have a factory bike rack above it. Pics to follow. David and Juanita

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We would love to see a picture of your setup, it sounds interesting. We have debated for two years about getting the trailer for the same reason that it add to the length. I don’t think we will take it every time we go out but I think it will work well for when we take the paddle boards. Thanks for watching.

[@davidstill7684]

VAN TREKKING lifestyle How can i send a picture? We dont do Facebook of other social media. But can send a pic via text or email?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

David Still [e-mail]

[@JarheadAndGingersJourney]

Wow! Movin on up with a trailer! That lemon chicken looks delicious. Gonna have to smoke some on our Traeger. Here in Japan, “Ina” means lucky. Ginger has no balance but really wants to paddle board so she calls the SUPs “Inas”. One of my goals is to be able to paddle one by the time we get started in our RV this fall. Love the water. Making the most of it is a beautiful theme. Awesome drone footage.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love the water too and one of goals this summer is to be on the water as much as possible. I bet the Traeger makes some awesome meals. Thanks for sharing your comment from Japan.

[@cherylkuhn8788]

That is one happy and tired Maggie!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

It doesn’t take much to make Maggie happy or tired. Thanks for watching.

[@buddydavis5992]

loved the trailer you are putting out some great videos keep it up .We just bought a 2020 white Travato KL can't wait to hit the road and maybe one day we will meet up with you and your family

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Congratulations on your new Travato. We think it will bring you many wonderful adventures. We love the white... Thanks for sharing your comment and we would love to park beside you in the future.

[@marywinters2436]

Love you trips with family in mind. We journey with you to Alaska all the way back to North Carolina 😎😎😎

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love having our family around the camp ground with us. Thanks so much for watching and commenting.

[@highpriestess2655]

Nicely said! 👍😍

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We appreciate you watching.

[@bobshaw4063]

WOW ! ya's rally fly along on the E bikes . Glad ya's wear helmets when ya's ride . On chicken I like lmon juice , basel , garlic powder , onion powder & soy sauce . I bake it @ 400 degrees in the oven when it's done it looks like barbecued chicken & it's real yummy tasting .

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The bikes are so much fun... and they do fly. We’ll have to try you chicken recipe, thanks for sharing.

[@fishngnana68]

Love the closeness that you all have with maggie.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Maggie has our hearts 100%!

[@glenestes8017]

We have a 27" black stone and I hated grilling on it until I watched you. Thanks for teaching me how to use it.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

That good to hear, so glad you are enjoying it.

[@ltstwilliams]

Swapped out my coleman roadtrip for a Blackstone after watching your griddle cooking segments. Did the chicken for dinner but swapped lemon for lime with montreal spice. Thanks for the tips. Best chicken ever.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

So glad your chicken turned out great. Enjoy your Blackstone and we appreciate you watching.

[@patrickmchargue7122]

This is just fun.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you. We always try to have fun no matter the circumstances.

[@maureentweedly]

Hope Sam the Cooking Guy is watching.....LOL. Thanks for another great video! Don't forget to sing us a song every once in a while!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I won’t forget. Next week we’re going to do a tribute to Dads, including my Dad. I’ll sing one of my songs for that segment. Glad you’re with us.

[@kaylenhamrick1823]

The Clam shelter is the BEST !!!!!!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Yes, it is. We have really enjoyed ours.

[@cjfergi]

You guys are awesome. We are following you because we may want to buy a Travato. Your videos are very helpful.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Good luck with your purchase. It’s a big decision with so many Rv’s to choose from. We do love ours but everyone is different. Glad the video are helpful.

[@tshlaru1]

Such a lovely video. Loved "To Be", made us smile. Would like to see how you changed out your over the slider shelf, as we may change out our screen someday as well.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We will show the slider shelf in one of our upcoming videos. We are loving the new screen. Thanks for the question.

[@RoadsofLife]

You mentioned me! I'm famous! Woo Hoo! I give up... I can NEVER be as happy as you two! You are amazing! Just want you to know... I have had a VERY difficult time at work lately... the college system is so convoluted it is really screwing up some of the students applying and getting enrolled and I was UP TO HERE with it all. I was ready to quit I was so angry. But then... today... I see... you two. All is right with the world. All is peaceful and kind and loving. All because of you two. Thank you. No... really... THANK YOU! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We realize we are very fortunate and feel very blessed that we get to share this wonderful life together, therefore the happiness we feel. I’m glad we could brighten your day. So sorry you had a bad day, hopefully things will get better. Thanks for the wonderful comment.

[@RoadsofLife]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle ❤️❤️❤️ With people like you in the world, things always get better!

[@ki1red]

KMSP is our "home park" if you will. Always enjoy ourselves out there. Starting to jones for a chocolate shake from Tony's. Man I haven't been there in a long time. The best part of camping is to 'be'. I've been to the parking lot (if you can call it that) but never knew the lake opened up. Will have to take the kayaks out there. Enjoyed the video.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You have a wonderful “home park”. We totally get what you mean. We had a great time there.

[@ronalddebruyne66]

Ok Owen, you are starting to get real comfortable in the "great outdoors".... Spiffy new hat, pneumatic rocking chair, shades on your "clam shell" tent so WE can't people watch YOU, electric "pedal bikes" (at least Lynn pedals), inflatable paddle boards, and a "toy box" trailer to haul it all.....WOW! Love you guys, stay safe! See you next week.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I guess it does look like we have a lot of stuff... are we even camping? We do like to travel both ways, I’ll say light (no toys), and heavy (all our toys). Since we are staying closer to home this summer it allows us to have different experiences as we visit different places. Thanks for an eye opening comment.

[@ronalddebruyne66]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Owen, I'm just pulling your leg.....you are testing products and answering questions we all have or have thought about.....I looked up that trailer, very nice! Keep up the great videos!!!!

[@juliafromwisconsin]

Great video!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you we appreciate you watching.

[@David-jo4gt]

My wife and I love watching your videos but I am not a snake fan. Safe travels and happy tails.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Not a snake fan either, but we were so shocked that we saw a rattlesnake we had to show it.

[@frankwright1503]

Owen and Lynn, thank you for buying that trailer. We have a Class C and we always question whether we should downsize to a B. We bought our Class C (Minnie Winnie 22m) because it is only 24ft long but with one slide for a walk around queen bed so we wouldn’t have to tow anything. It does have a lot of storage both under and in /grandmas attic/. We carry all the toys you have now without towing and at least for now we are more satisfied we are traveling in our Class C. So glad you got your RADS. What level do you and Lynn like to regularly travel in.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Your Class C sounds perfect and who wouldn’t love to have a walk around bed all for 24 ft. I would be interested in how you carry a Kayak or Paddle board. On our Rad bikes we usually ride on a level 2, they are so much fun. We appreciate you sharing your comment.

[@frankwright1503]

Check out RVkayakracks.com. Lots of options

[@reneemcgonigle5203]

Just named our 2019 purchased this year, 59KL "Our Fort". Planning our next adventure to MD Waterfront. Thanks for all your wonderful videos.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

That is awesome! We all love making and being in forts... our safe places. :-)

[@hdlowrider5413]

Hey Owen I owe y’all dinner. I went back on some of your older videos and found the one on the TRUMA leveling system. You saved me over $100. I was going to buy a level mate. Thank you that TRUMA app works great. So on that day when we meet dinners on me.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Just being with you and swapping stories would be enough... but dinner might be good too. Tip... make sure you write down your width and length numbers somewhere you can get to if you happen to be offline. We had that happen to us a few weeks ago and the app doesn't work great unless it has those numbers.

[@hdlowrider5413]

VAN TREKKING lifestyle 👍

[@cenedraleaheldra5275]

Yep I make lemon pepper chicken. The canoeing looked amazing.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love being on the water... it soothes the soul. Thanks for sharing your comment.

[@glenlittlefield9869]

Now that you have the trailer, you need to get Maggie a trailer for the bikes....ya got room now! LOL

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We do have room now. Looking to find a lightweight folding kiddo/puppy carrier now. Thanks for being with us!

[@larryvincent2098]

Owen , Lynn and Maggie you are getting a lot of following people !! Well I can see why with all that talent and information and the fie side cooking !! Man you three are a opening act for camping !! Enjoyed another fantastic video . Be kind to one another and be safe . As two of you express TO BE is great words of wisdom ...

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you for the kind words. We appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@doncolincreative]

A few points. Our oldest daughter bought a home and lives in Gastonia beginning 3 years back. We have visited often and have come to enjoy this little town, including Tony’s though we visit once in a while. Reminds us of our “childhood” place in our little town. I want to thank you for exposing me to try J’s Blackstone. Made my first burgers last night. Great great great! Finally in light of all the unrest and the opinion s about filling the s as it waves in the last few weeks your “To Be” segment was just perfect. We are waiting patiently to get our van build finished and to get out in the road again. Thanks for sharing yourselves.....

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thanks so much for sharing. Glad you are liking your Blackstone, as you can tell we love ours. Good luck on your van build, you’ll have to share when it’s done. We appreciate you watching.

[@JDTTRAVELS]

Another great video. My wife and I are sure enjoying watching these. And a great message at the end. Keep the videos coming!!!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you for your inspiring comment. We appreciate it.

[@SunshineAllDaywPugs]

Hello, I enjoy your videos very much. They are calming to me. Thank you. I have a thor sequence with a similar twin bed layout as yours. I like the shelf you have added above the sliding door. Can you please give me more details on the dimensions, how you have attached it on both ends and where did you find the beautiful baskets? Also, the blackout curtain and rod you hung above driver and passenger overhead compartment, how did you drill that into that plastic area? Thank you.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We’ll shoot a video soon with more detail about the shelf. It was actually pretty simple, with the exception of the cut-out for the door right behind the passenger (and I didn’t do a perfect job of cutting that and it still works). It’s just a 1x12 4-foot piece of pine from Lowe’s.It fits perfectly in the space but doesn’t reach far enough to rest on the overhead compartment as I’d hoped on the Travato. The outside edge is connect to the where the old screen support was connected on the Travato, but that may be different for you. One side of the shelf rests on a piece of molding we bought at Lowe’s. That same molding is glued/nailed to the leading edge of the shelf to keep things from coming off. That piece of molding was left about 3 inches long and it rests perfectly on the overhead storage area, with a piece of rubber underneath to protect the shelf and keep it from rattling. As for the curtain it was simple on the Travato. There were already 3 screws from the factory holding the plastic piece in place. I took those out and used them to hold the curtain rod in 3 places. Works perfectly for us. Not sure Lynn would have let me drill the holes if they were not there. But we love having the curtain. Thanks for watching... let me know if this doesn’t cover everything.

[@rs5343]

Would love info about the trailer

[@susanjohnson7252]

You guys are awesome. Thank you for being you!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you so much... and we appreciate you watching and commenting.

[@judystreich7333]

To be...good way to put our new normal in perspective. Really liked this video, and that little trailer. That trailer is awesome and opens up a whole lot of new ways to enjoy your camping experiences. Keep enjoying Life 👍😎⛺️🙋🏼‍♀️

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thanks so much for your encouraging words. We agree that adding the trailer will add to our experiences.

[@trishbenedict6588]

Clint’s ice cream in Los Altos, CA in the ‘50s. Long gone, alas.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

So sorry. It's amazing how those losses effect us at weird times. We are afraid with the struggles businesses are having during COVID many of our favorites will no longer be around. That will be sad! Thanks for being with us!

[@ftkinsella]

Nice trailer, makes a lot do sense. Stay safe guys. Cheers!!!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We are excited about the extra storage the trailer give and how it will enhance our travels. Cheers to you!

[@frito_bandito_]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Love your channel. The MiniGo looks like a winner. How much was it? This could make a Travato a possibility for us. We currently have a 32 ft. Jayco Class C and pull a toad. Do you ever leave it at the campground, and if so, how do you secure it?

[@lustraveller717]

Now that's the perfect trailer! Low profile and plenty of storage space. I think that's something I could tow, too

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

So far it’s a great trailer, we are really excited about the extra storage.

[@kesa66]

I just watched your video and we where visiting KM in the same time frame…. wait a minute....let me back up a bit. When my husband and I started following y'all I told my husband Owen has the mannerism from the area I'm from. Well , when you pulled into the parking lot I knew exactly where you were. We laughed because I recognized the idiosyncrasy. Next time visit RO's for some good BBQ : )

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

That’s so funny. We will check out RO’s next time. We appreciate you sharing your comment.

[@forreststinnett4123]

Thank you guys for being you I really enjoy your videos.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

That’s such a nice thing to say. We really appreciate your comment.

[@sanddollar-ray9125]

enjoy thank you stay safe

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You are very welcome and we appreciate you watching.

[@marthamanigross]

Congrats on the trailer. Will be watching to see if you think it’s worth it. Love the bike riding. Still trying to talk Tony into e-bikes. Loved the scenery. We had a giant black snake in our barn when we lived in the farm. We left him there when we moved, lol. The chicken looked yummy. Loved that you figured out how to hook it to the van propane. Good job. Stay safe and well. Hugs from Tony and Martha.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We are really hope the trailer works out. I don’t think we will use it on every trip, but I do think it will add to way we experience our travel when we do take it. Thanks for always following along. Stay safe and healthy.

[@jeanettemckinley9967]

How exactly did you attach the entry screen top and sides to the van? Is there a video? Thanks!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Owen replaced the over the door shelf with a wooden one. The screen has Velcro on the top and the side to hold it in place. The top also has 5 stick pins like things for extra hold. We will try to show this in more detail in an upcoming video. Thanks for the question.

[@markwilkins9048]

And where did you find that quick connect hose that works with the Travato and the Blackstone?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Hey Mark. The hose along with the adapter needed for the Blackstone are in our Amazon store, under the OUTDOOR section. Here's a link: www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle

[@markwilkins9048]

Terrific. Thank you.

[@Carmencita1464]

Love love your videos. So inspiring. Thank you and I can’t wait to Be in touch with nature. Love your new addition more space in the camper. Your baby is so sweet. Many travels and stay humble 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you so much for your kind words. Being in nature is the best place to Just Be.

[@lindajoplin8054]

You are modern day Mr. & Mrs. Rogers. Thank you. I have a question about the …..oh I hate snakes! …. I have a question about the e-bikes. What type did you get and how far can you go on one charge?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I’m not sure how to take being compared to Mr. & Mrs. Rogers, lol. We have Rad Power bikes, the are the Mini Step Thru’s. It says you can get 45+ miles per battery charge, but the furtherest we rode so far is 25 miles and we were still at 60%. A lot of it depends on how much you peddle and how much assistance you have and also how much you use the throttle. I will say that we absolutely love them they are a lot of fun and very well made.

[@amytaylor6603]

Love the camping area. Beautiful.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We agree. Thanks for watching.

[@anieto1965]

Can you share the cable/adapter you used for the Blackstone grill to the onboard propane please? Looks like you had to remove the regulator from the Blackstone right? Thanks in advance, always enjoy your videos! Take care and safe travels! One more thing cool Rad Mini’s! My wife and I get ours hopefully in a couple of weeks since they are back ordered now.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The cable and adapter is listed on our Amazon store page isn’t he “Outdoor” area. You are correct we did remove the regulator it’s not need when using the van propane. Congratulations on getting your Rad Mini’s, you are going to love them. Thanks for watching.

[@Pinky121971]

Enjoy your videos cant wait to try your adventures. What cameras are you using on this videos ?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Our main camera is a Sony a6400, coupled with two iPhone 11 Pros. All the camera equipment we use regularly is listed on Amazon store page under cameras... here's the link so you can see everything we use. Thanks for the nice comment. www.amazon.com/shop/vantrekkinglifestyle?listId=1FPIN268DKCYJ&ref=idea_share_inf

[@jamesalford189]

I can’t find the video y’all did about cooking on the blackstone and putting things like chopped food scoop around it to keep the flame from blowing out

[@cortsims459]

Love the shoutout to Tony’s from a girl who grew up in Gastonia but wandered to North Idaho a long time ago. Still love Tony’s grape ice cream - the best!!! Hope that place endures forever. Noticed that you have bedspreads different from the ones you had many blogs ago. We just got a new Winnebago sprinter van & are looking for bedding suggestions. What brand are the bed coverings? Or did you sew them yourself? Thanks. Love your travels.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I just buy twin blankets for the top, I’m not sure the brands they are both several years old. I bought the red one from Amazon and the yellow from Khol’s. I do use twin xl sheets on the passenger bed and a regular twins. Thanks for sharing your comment.

[@stephenwill9792]

Loved the novel way to use the roll of paper towels! To Be For Sure!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The paper towel move came from “Sam the Cooking Guy”, which I think is pretty funny. Thanks for watching.

[@WingsandWheelsAlaska]

We would Love "To Be" With y'all. Great video... Not a fan of the snake! Stay safe and know we miss you tremendously.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We would love “To Be” with you guys again this year too... maybe next year. Love that we can keep up with each other through weekly video. Love you guys and making memories.

[@gottacampgirl]

I think this is one of my favorite videos. Thank you for sharing. Just be.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You are so welcome, it’s good to hear the video was one of you favorites. We appreciate you watching.

[@OverlandCitrus]

Great vid guys love it

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you and we appreciate you watching.

[@edframbes5296]

Another great video! May I ask what size Blackstone griddle you are using? Thanks, for sharing your journeys.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Hi Ed. It is a Blackstone 17". We have one in our Amazon store: www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle

[@edframbes5296]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thanks, for the reply! I'll probably go with the propane adapter hose to connect 20# propane tank.

[@daviddunham1506]

Dear O&L, I stumbled on your site a few weeks ago, just browsing KZbin, and to make a long story short, we bought a new KL today......all bills will be forwarded. Curious how you mounted the carrier on top with solar panels in the way. I have had a Radrover for a couple of years with a Mini on the way. Love it!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We’ll make sure our mail carrier keeps a lookout for your forwarded bills. :-). We don’t have a video about making room for the Thule on top but it is easily explained but not easily accomplished... but once you get it up there you’ll be glad it’s there... just be really careful carrying things up and down the ladder. Here are the steps: 1) Using 8 10” L brackets make 4 14” U-Brackets and relocate the big solar panel over the A/C. 2) Move the front crossbar from the front to just behind the A/C so you can have an additional bar to mount the box. 3) Measure on the ground and get the crossbars in the right location to support your carrier. 4) Get some help getting the carrier on the roof and place it on the crossbars and secure. 5) Other tips: Having it as far on the passenger side works best... you can place things on the roof before putting them in the box. Loading heavier things from the drivers side by moving the ladder works best. Handing things down to a helper works best. Having a helper hand things up works best. * Disclaimer... do at your own risk. We’ve been to Alaska and back with ours on but depending on what you put in there it would cause an issue with the bars. Check the crossbars often for cracks, making sure they are tight. Hope that helps.

[@jackiesayre3605]

Great video, newly here. Love your fur baby What bikes do you have?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thanks so much for checking out our channel. We have Rad Power bikes and we love them.

[@chargass2]

I have many fond memories from Gastonia. Grew up on Morehead, a block from the original Tony"s .. the store is still there as well as the big rock beside where i sit many nights with childhood friends. Thank you for the memories of days long gone.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You are so welcome. It’s good to have places that bring back so many fond memories. Thanks for watching.

[@pamelahaukaas964]

I can't find your video about your aluminum box on the back. I also have a K and would like to add a box similar to yours. Could you please post the link to that episode? Thanks. Love your adventures.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We never made a video about it. We added it after we returned from Alaska. I’ve looked but can’t seem to find the exact video. We took the rails off the bike rack to take a spare tire to Alaska. Then just mounted the aluminum box from Tractor Supply to the vertical supports of what was left of the bike carrier.

[@pamelahaukaas964]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thank you, I plan to do this mod.

[@joemiller8929]

Great video..... I especially loved the TO BE part.... AWESOME words. Thank you for sharing 😎😎

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you, we appreciate your comment.

[@BVelazq99]

Did you have an issue with the Thule bike rack for the e-bikes or just needed more room for toys?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

No issues with the bike rack, it works great. We are going to keep it for our car and for the time we don’t need to take the trailer. The trailer is mostly for new toys.

[@JodysJourney]

LOVE THE TRAILER. ❤️

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We love the trailer too and are excited about being able to expand our adventures.

[@timmartin4952]

As always, a fantastic video! Looked like so much fun all the way around.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you for sharing your comment.

[@jannettejohnson1100]

What are you using to lock your bikes up when you are stopped at a trail?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

To be honest we’ve only done it once and we don’t really like the locks we got they are way to short, so we are sending them back and looking for something better.

[@jkickinutube]

How old is your dog? Thanks and Cheers! Jon

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Maggie is 6 and brings a lot of joy to our lives. Thanks for watching.

[@jeffworboys8305]

Awesome video! You were in my area. We have camped with our Scout troop at Kings Mountain many times and I have been to Tony’s a number of times but not recently. Glad you had a great time and I am very interested in how the trailer works out. We have been contemplating that for our Alaska trip. BTW...Rad Power bikes are pretty well sold out. I tried too get a couple of mini step through’ s and they are not available until late July.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We loved our visit to your area, it did take us awhile to get back into the groove. We will keep you posted on how the trailer works out. I can’t believe the Rad Power Bike are on backorder, I’m glad we got ours when we did. We are loving them, it’s the best thing we’ve purchased in a long time.

[@keyplayer5]

You made some awesome upgrades with the trailer and cover for your clamshell. So much fun waking up to one of your videos.....makes me dream again. We’ve been looking at your travato model and are concerned about two things... one is the fridge being low and the other is the beds comfortability as I have back probs. We would get the G but are concerned about the width of the bed being a bit tight with my husbands cpap. We would appreciate whatever advice you could offer. Missing North Carolina - it’s going to be our first destination!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The fridge be low is not the most convenient thing. I do use baskets that I can pull out to get to things easier and sometimes I just sit on the floor to stock the fridge after a store run. I do think it something you get use to. As for the beds we have put toppers on them and I have pretty much made them the same as we have at home. We had a small camper with a corner bed similar to the G and it was really hard on my back and I’m claustrophobic so I don’t think that would work for us, but I do like the layout of the G. I feel the K is more open and just feels bigger with all the windows. Good luck with your decision.

[@AndyB718]

Living the Dream..I hope to do so in a few more yrs of this Chaos in NY

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Yes we are... and we feel very bless that we are able to do what we are doing. Good luck with your few more years.

[@markwilkins9048]

Owen, were you stowing your Blackstone on the Rig before the trailer? If so, where?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Hi Mark... yes we were storing it with us. Before the aluminum box was added where the bike rack used to be we stored it in a bag in the Thule. Now that we have that box mounted to the passenger side back door I can store it in the box... but lately I've been putting it in the bag and actually strapping it to the top of the box as we roll. That works great... easy to put it up there, frees up more storage and it's easy to get down and cook. Thanks for watching.

[@markwilkins9048]

VAN TREKKING lifestyle Awesome, thank you sir. I am downsizing from a 35 footer to the 59KL NPF this week. I cook on the Blackstone almost everyday and was worrying about where to put it. Enjoy your videos, keep up the good work.

[@fishngnana68]

💘 your video but woukd be nice for lynn to do more talking

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thank you. She is much more active with the channel now than she used to be and getting more and more comfortable in front of the camera. Thanks for helping me encourage her!

[@rhondakittle9877]

Love watching your channel! As you travel with Maggie, how do you keep the van cool when you're not hooked up? Generator?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

If we can we use the max air fan and open a couple of windows for ventilation, but as it warms up we do use the generator and turn the AC on. We also have a pet monitor for when we are alway for a longer period so we can keep track of the temperature. Thanks the for question.

[@michellekirby5414]

VAN TREKKING lifestyle what pet monitor do you use?

[@erinpuryear9478]

What is the griddle you use (with the sides and back)?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The griddle is a Blackstone and we love it. Thanks for watching.

[@bertkelly7650]

Don't know what the obsession is with avocados......yuk. If you like olives, might be why. Also yuk! : )

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

I love avocados but Owen doesn’t so we don’t usually add them to our meals. Thanks for watching.

[@kennethrohr7765]

By the way, get you a can of sweet corn, add butter and garlic powder and cook on the griddle. Get it nice and brown, oboy!!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

That sounds great, we will try that. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@deasnealy9053]

Owen, for the Travato. Would you recommend a 17 or 22-inch Griddle? I am thinking 22 would not fit under the bed but figured you would have a recommendation. I can get the 22 for 99 dollars at Sams and includes the Cover! Thanks.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We use the 17" on the road and the 22" at home. The 22 might be pretty big to lug around. It's awesome and that is really good price.

[@deasnealy9053]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle Thanks. I figured it may be. I have a larger one at home already. So I will consider the smaller. Appreciate your advice! We were just in Gastonia and I forgot about the Icecream place. Glad I did. I am on a diet to lose 10 more LBS!

[@carolkoniecki]

Glad to see you out on the water! Now you have a 'toy hauler'. Thanks and prayers!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

A different kind of toy hauler, we are excited to be able to take all our toys with us. Thanks for the comment.

[@Yellowstonetim]

You two are so wonderful together. My wife (of 36 years) love to RV too. Something special about the time out together, God's creation, and meeting new people. And just being still and knowing that He is God. God bless you both.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We couldn’t agree more we feel so blessed that we are able to share all of God’s beauty together. Thanks for the lovely comment.

[@barbaracarlson7402]

Maggie is just so darn cute! She just had to get in that lake, didn't she? :) We just spent five nights at Oconee Point Campground, a COE park near Seneca, SC. It was our first venture out since Covid took over our lives. Like you, it was a lesson in learning how "to be". It was different but lots of walks and bike rides and the lake was beautiful.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Is sounds like you had the same experience we did. It was different for sure and it took some time to get back into the groove. Thanks for sharing.

[@debraash6830]

Hi Guys! What a gorgeous video. Thanks so much for sharing. Have some questions . Can you please tell me about your inflatable paddleboards. What brand are they. Do they take up much space and how much do they weigh. Thanks in advance for any information 😊

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Both paddle boards are Bote’s. Owen’s is a fishing paddleboad and is bigger and weighs 45 lbs, mine is a lot lighter at 30 lbs which I can carry, it takes both of us to carry Owen’s. The weight of Owen’s makes it harder to put them on top of the van, hence the trailer. Mine would be easier to find a place for than Owen’s, we have put the small one in the Thule and both in a basket on top of the van. Another disadvantage is the time it take to inflate and deflate, sometimes it’s just not worth it for one trip. You will also have to find a place for a pump, life jackets, and the paddles. We do love them, me more than Owen, mine is just so much easier than his. Thank for your comment, I hope this helps.

[@debraash6830]

Thanks so much for response.

[@marktreichel2145]

Hey Owen and Lynn - another great video. We have a KL and are considering a trailer. I have a question about your trailer. Do you plan to leave it behind when you take the Travato out? How do you secure it to prevent theft?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We will talk more about the trailer in the next video and I think we answered your first question. We did buy a pin lock to secure the trailer when it’s attached to the van and just sitting a the camp site. Thanks for the questions,.

[@TimeoffwithCuzinEddie]

Another great video! Sometimes it’s nice to just exist for a few days. We love the outdoor room and hope to add one soon to our campsite. Would you mind sharing what brand you have?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

The room is a “Clam” we have it listed on our Amazon shopping page at www.amazon.com/shop/VanTrekkingLifestyle. We are loving your videos. Hope we can see you on the road sometime.

[@bevn362]

Couldn’t see on your bike ride, but a suggestion if you don’t already have them is to get "biker gloves" they are lightweight, but still protect if a pebble/rock flies up and hits your hand so you don’t lose control; also, if made from the right fabric they will protect you from bee/insect stings while riding. You can ride for years w/out an incident, but all it takes is one time and you could break a collarbone, get a concussion, road rash, etc The eBikes are so much fun! kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKSsp4x-nZeMerM

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Gloves are a great idea, I had told Owen that I wanted to get some. If we do ever go down on our bikes it’s really going to hurt, especially at our age. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@ToniAdventures]

Loved your "To Be" segment! How is it driving and finding places to park with your little trailer? I'm in the midst of figuring out how to carry my 14' kayak....

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We go into more detail about the trailer in our next video. We were trying to solve the same issue with smaller kayaks. So far driving and finding parking places hasn’t been a problem. However, backing the trailer is another story. We discuss the trailer in more detail in the next video. That might be helpful to watch.

[@sandras1524]

just wondering if you've used the Weber Q and if so how it compares to the griddle. thanks

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We have never used the Weber Q but it looks interesting. I would be interested in knowing how people like it.

[@frito_bandito_]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle We purchased a Weber Q a few weeks ago, and it works great! Got it at Ace Hardware for $209. Might be a bit large for the van though.

[@jamesmobley9419]

Like your TO BE lot of truth there

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thanks, we appreciate you watching.

[@jamesmobley9419]

@@VANTREKKINGlifestyle 😊👍

[@kennethrohr7765]

Another great one. Maybe you can help me with this, I have the same griddle as you but whether I grill on my patio or campsite when not useing it Ants come a swarming! I always clean it after. Is it the seasoning I use??? No problem with my other bbq grill.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We've had problems with ants too, but not in the griddle (so far). Keeping it really clean is hard, especially with the grease tray. When I finish cooking I always do a 3-part clean. Step 1: Scrape away everything including grease from the griddle. Step 2: With the griddle hot pour fresh water on it and move the water from back to front and side to side... take a paper towel and wipe that up. Repeat that until the paper towel doesn't get too much color on it. Step 3: Spray cooking oil (I use the high temp grill Pam oil) and wipe it down with a paper towel (while it's still warm but not hot). Then I put the cover on it and cinch it tight around it. Hope that helps. Owen

[@saabmagicman2588]

Great video. I see that you succumbed to lack of space and went with trailer. Question, your videos have great clarity and sound. What do you use for a camera?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Our main camera is a Sony a6400, coupled with two iPhone 11 Pros. All the camera equipment we use regularly is listed on Amazon store page under cameras... here's the link so you can see everything we use. Thanks for the nice comment. www.amazon.com/shop/vantrekkinglifestyle?listId=1FPIN268DKCYJ&ref=idea_share_inf

[@jimsherry7050]

Shame on you. We are now on our 3rd batch of hot dog chili. Yummmmm!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You're one batch ahead of us. 😂😂👍❤️

[@rvwall-e]

Owen, love sharing your journey and appreciating all that you show and teach us, but I gotta tell you, your "neighbor" might be kind and helpful, but he would turn me into a world class sprinter if we met!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We like look at him from afar, but as long as he stays away from the house we want bother him. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@0150r]

With the trailer, don't you lose a lot of the benefits of a small RV that fits in a single parking spot? It's got the downsides of a class B as well as a class C, but not the benefits of either.

[@NancyBB2222]

Hi from North Carolina. I work at the Welcome Center in Norlina. ( unfortunately we are still closed) Loved the video!

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

You are correct in your statement and we address them in our next video. Thanks for your comment.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

Thanks for the information. Hopefully things will start opening soon.

[@sobodon]

"To be" I sure need to work on that one! Like the trailer. Is it difficult to back up...can you see it in the mirrors?

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We are going to go in more detail about the trailer in the next video. You cannot see the trailer in the mirrors which makes it harder to back, hopefully we can resolve that and I’m sure with practice we will get better.

[@m3cog]

We've been watching awhile and wanted you to know we enjoy your videos and especially your leading lady. Loved watching the tail wag while the paws paddled today. We have been waiting for a trailer to "appear" on your Travato. How does it affect your handling of the van? Are you going to disconnect at your campsite when you drive somewhere? Thanks and stay safe Mike & Brenda | Hondo TX

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

We are going to answer your questions in our next video. But so far you can’t even tell the trailer is behind the van, the only issue is backing it because you can’t really see it. Owen has some ideas to resolve that. We will probably disconnect at the campsite most of the time, it gives a secure place for our bikes and other things. Thanks fo the questions.

[@ncwomanparker1708]

What type of paddleboards do you have? Love this video! Maggie is having a good time swimming. My Sasha would be laying on her side floating after swimming.

[@VANTREKKINGlifestyle]

They are both Bote Paddleboads. Owen’s is a lot bigger and heavier, it’s made more for fishing, my is very lightweight and I can easily carry it mayself, and I love it. Thanks so much for watching.