Her DIY Camper Van - 4+ Years Of Solo Female Tiny House Life

[@wallab731]

I absolutely love your van layout! I have been toying around with the idea of doing this myself. I am a 68 yo female, retired, and ready to travel!

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you! I had a very different layout before touring a bunch of vans, and I absolutely love how my layout works! Come on out - the community is ready to welcome you!

[@alvenatgolden1781]

I really like your van Good choices it really is nice a good size bed looks comfortable. I am in the process of downsizing now. Good Luck Thanks Fir Sharing.

[@orawancarlile6192]

I am on a planing stage to DIY for traveling solo overland also. You are not alone.

[@Truth1561]

@@TheGalavan I wish this was an option in the UK, but we just aren’t set up for this. Anyone parking up and sleeping is moved on unless it’s a dedicated lorry parking space- which are always full and stink of diesel fumes!

[@CatherineMoore888]

I love your van. It is functional, pretty, climate/ earth friendly. You have thought a great deal about your place in this planet

[@ericalampley480]

Great suggestion on using marine-grade materials and slam latches. Very nice build.

[@candymcclure2476]

I really love your video. I am in a tiny home, not on wheels. It has one good size room and a separate bathroom. I am 77 so I don't wander as much as I used to. Have a great life! Gramma Candy

[@62WILDCAT]

I'm in my 78th year on Earth too. Wishing to BE a NOMAD in tiny home on wheels ( Van )

[@patriciamampel3601]

Hide Candy!!

[@patriciamampel3601]

@@62WILDCAT; Hi Dee Carol! God blessing you. I've been noticing its mostly we women going nomads tiny resourseful lliving. Isn't that odd? Considering how forever men provided "homes" for us to live & raise children in. Oh boy. Me, I'm gradually transforming a rent to own shed into a home (yes costs way more $$$). To go off grid...to be here for my youngest son & his only son...but my son committed suicide for reasons unknown...I've been devastated...I've gone without heat for 6 months in below freezing nights to single digits...k70

[@patriciamampel3601]

Granny9

[@patriciamampel3601]

9

[@jodief9970]

Thank you, thank you for a great tour with realistic advice and not the FB version of your life… and thank you for speaking like a normal person without an upward inflection. So relieving!! I love your van- but your tour was probably the best I have watched.

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you!

[@judymills7157]

I think about solo van life as being lonele". Your wonderful story about the friends you've made enlightened me; you don't have to be lonely at all!

[@marp4735]

You

[@soulcorner123]

Agree💯

[@carolineduda5339]

Yes. That upward cadence in the younger generation is quite annoying as is their limited vocab. 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@brendalloyd1903]

Nice to hear from a lady who has been on the road a long time and has more knowledge about everything!

[@gailkellum832]

Forgot to say I loved the refrigerator placement. It's out of the way and in an area with more space. Good idea! I also like the beach awning or shower curtain for shading. Much easier to stow and less expensive. I would like to know if you have ever used water from streams, etc in the Berkey? I've read that they will filter turbid water but I'm still concerned about bacteria and protozoans. Any input is appreciated.

[@tWz4462]

I love they way she informs you on everything you may need in your van journey inside your home on wheels. She had beautiful skin 🥰

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you!

[@heatherangellight8558]

@@TheGalavan who was your tiny home builder you used? Thanks so much! Love your van and the ecological items you chose as well!

[@craftingwithcharm7665]

I like her conception on keeping things simple & keeping track of only what you use. Love the counter space, the size of the bed & she’s right about being nimble I like that.

[@FirstSuiGeneris]

_Great tour of her home. She is so right, I have been still downsizing the clothes, dishes, and other things._

[@virginiacrisostomo7458]

Rt

[@williampullings4144]

I haven't started van life yet, but I just like the set-up you have. God bless you and all decisions you make in your life.

[@jenniferglowacki6651]

Wow! I'm so absolutely impressed. I love seeing a woman my age which motivates me. I love that she cared about how green her van build was and I admire how she lives her life with less. Superb design. I will definitely use some of these features for my own van build. Like the open shelving, two swivel seats (unless I close off part of the front...Thank you Tiny Home Tours!!

[@onewomanandherdog5219]

It still looks good, even after 4 years!

[@MsNZgal]

Thank you Joni for the tour of your happy place. Good point about changing from glass to metal due to weight. It all helps. I like the idea of having a lot of bench space.

[@LorE_aka-midwestmemaw8555]

I absolutely LOVE that you use your entire van!!

[@RachelSDay1982]

Thank you for the tour, and for explaining more about the "nomad" community of what sounds like wonderfully gracious folks!! 😊

[@nanetterivera6612]

Thanks for opening up your home to us. Beautiful & thoughtful placement & purchases. Incredible Journeys to you!

[@janetfolkerts5827]

Learning what your specific priorities are is the learning curve is this lifestyle. Thank you for sharing a look at your lovely and very comfortable home on wheels.

[@mkeeler315]

I wish you had talked about the wonderful series of pictures decorating your van, they are lovely.

[@OrbitStephanie]

She offered loads if amazing tips and ideas!! 💞👍🏽

[@lalylunssporadicchronicles6404]

I have followed her for a long time and everything she says is absolutely right, I like her no non sense approach and practical advise!

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you!

[@dominickbundy6429]

What a beautiful soul. She is very resourceful and interesting. One of my favorite KZbin videos.

[@evelyncmawk3871]

You've a great set up in the van. You e thought about alot of things you would need. And changed things when you changed your mind. That is one thing that is wonderful for free spirits.

[@hrhplease9119]

She is one of the best vans & YT channels. Absolutely love her. 👍🏻💓🥰

[@TheGalavan]

Aw, thanks! 😊

[@annielakshmi]

I love the simplicity and openess of your home. The open cupboards and your colors are great. Thanks so much for all the info.

[@TheGalavan]

You're welcome.

[@saras1458]

So wonderful to see this tour and talk. I saw a video with you, maybe done by Bob, and started following your Facebook page. Recently I've been doubting my desire to live the van life and this has erased all those doubts! Thank you! 😊 I hope we meet someday!

[@noreenn6976]

Thanks for the tour Joni. Glad to see you're still enjoying van life!

[@davericketts9101]

Lovely van, lovely lady, lovely video. Thanks

[@maura6375]

🌺 I absolutely love your home ❤️ I will watch again and maybe again 😜 so many fabulous ideas❣️

[@earthrider700]

Love this eco build... such a smart woman!

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you

[@bevtrue6937]

I have seen so many tours but somehow yours sticks out as the best. I feel really comfortable around you for some reason. Great job.

[@sarahtiferet9025]

i know me too. she just seemed relaxed ,comfortable with herself and her decisons . Without having to try too hard , sound overly enthuiastic , she was just real . After that video she was a friend in my head LOL! peace , from Berkeley, Ca

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you! I get that a lot. 😊

[@aeconiglio]

@TheGalavan I'm a 30 something lady from San Diego admiring you from afar. You're brave, compassionate, thoughtful, intentional, peaceful... I wish you a happy life and happy holidays! Thanks for inspiring us!

[@fayejones6740]

I really like your van. All electric is the way to go for me. It’s clean and less to keep up with. Enjoy your life

[@TheGalavan]

Yes - I'm really glad I went all electric. I have no regrets. It's an up-front investment, but worth every penny.

[@janelawson4394]

Love this. I have just purchased a van and am really looking forward to being as self sufficient as you are. Thank you for the tour x

[@veronicag.6205]

Love the van. Looks very homey with the warm color palette. I also love that it's all electric.

[@joanarcher5291]

Love your van...did not catch make and model! You are living pretty much the way I want to live, simple and convenient! Hope to meet up with you someday. Planning 2022...to be out...stills lots to do get done before I'm 100% out! Great info...thanks again, Joanie

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you!

[@TheGalavan]

@@joanarcher5291 It's a Freightliner (made by Mercedes) Sprinter 2500, 4 cylinder, 170 wheelbase, high top.

[@T_1357_F]

I like your idea of a freezer used as a refrigerator. You didn't mention the make and model of the freezer you used to replace your refrigerator?

[@michellestratford9753]

I came looking for that info as well. Sounds like a great unit.

[@guillermodelatorre8]

Need a link for the freezer thanks

[@TheGalavan]

It's the Isotherm Freezer 90 along with a Stainless Lobster digital controller.

[@bevtrue6937]

There are several where you can pick what you want it to be. One side freezer, one side fridge, or both fridge, etc.

[@barabaradimick2378]

I enjoyed her tour. She has a nice place to live in and she’s very informative. She knows her stuff, She has a place for everything she needs…..

[@corrinaevans7622]

Not wanting to make the others ill! Compassion isn't always easy, but it makes the world a better place!

[@cuernavacadave]

One of the best builds I’ve seen. I’d be interested to know what the van and build price tag was!!!

[@lindasteinbrenner8065]

Nice van! Nice lady.. she brings up points to consider and offers good solutions. ❤️

[@janetrhodes2934]

Thanks so much for sharing! I'm getting so many great ideas & learning about so many things from your van design! I'm hoping to enter full-time van life in the next few years as I prepare to retire.

[@JCisReal65]

I love your layout! I too have been living in my van for 14 months now and I love it!

[@fortheloveoflike3996]

I had never heard of the 100 day dress or how great wool t-shirts are, i have been researching them since you mentioned! thank you.

[@sharonoldham4374]

Love the storage shelves so much better than cabinets. Good design on the inside well thought out. Thanks for sharing. 🦋

[@TheGalavan]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@bubiekozol]

LOVE the Lisa Kattenbraker prayer flags!

[@TheGalavan]

OMG! You totally just made my day! I've had SO many people ask me who the artist is and I couldn't find the info. I LOVE her flags and all I knew was that she was an artist who was at the Oregon Country Fair years ago. Thank you, thank you, thank you! ❤

[@suenolan3086]

I am an artist and those beautiful little works caught my eye as well...I had assumed that you Joni painted them...they really add life to your interior...for surely a living space is not complete without art !!!...and books !!!...

[@nata3467]

Loved hearing her downsizing ideas. I have a dry cabin I hope to one day live in. .get great ideas from these videos

[@janinedevilliers510]

I love the comfortable bed and that you didn't scrimp on a good bed. You didn't scrimp on all the important things. The Basin. Wood. Water. Draws. Toilet. Fridge. Food storage. Shower. Flooring. Organisation. Shading. Exercise equip. Solar. Well thought out. I agree, get someone to build what you want for you, if you can afford it. You want everything to be very strong if it is your permanent lifestyle. I live in Germany. The bed in our campervan is very uncomfortable. I'm comparing your own unique build to the prefab campervan we have. Although it contains everything on a small scale, it is very uncomfortable to live in permanently. I prefer to have an interior built to my specs. I don't have the tools build anyway. You showed us some great ideas all over your home. And you can up and go quickly. Safety is always important. Wishing you lots of happiness and fantastic adventures. 👍🤗💐

[@thenettenettenette]

This is a perfect build for her. Really smart choices.

[@nightstalkerck]

I usually don't like vans because of their small size, but yours is wonderful, and the colors are great.

[@goddesscapricorn]

Keep living your dream beautiful lady. Sending blessings 🙏

[@Kueytwo]

A small food hammock hung forward instead of sideways will not bang to sides of van. Boat cabinetry is so good for van life. I would use a wonderwash for small off grid laundry needs. Magnetic mosquito nets is a great idea to keep the bugs out the van.

[@debralazaro5644]

Ty so so much I'm older and tired of living the life I do been looking into the van life wanting to c the world appreciate ur time for showing that it can b done good luck to u and safe travels

[@peteswildlife]

Thank you very much for sharing your beautiful video. Kind regards and a relaxing Sunday, Petes

[@dianecollins9966]

I accidentally found your van tour..it's amazing! The fact you sell oils is brilliant too. You have amazing skin so a good advert! X

[@ChrisW228]

No disposables, made a point to not bring COVID to areas unaffected... forget the van, we need more of her. Imagine if even half the people in the world were as selfless. And these things aren’t huge inconveniences, either.

[@mealsbymilan1049]

Amen 🙏🏾 I agree

[@SabrinaDawn444]

Well said♡

[@TheGalavan]

Ah, thank you! 😊

[@SIOTL-IHI]

@@mealsbymilan1049 a

[@GlobalGreenBook]

Well said, agreed 👍🏾

[@chitchat4994]

I recently purchased mines! 2022😀 I’ll be helping out with completing the renovation

[@theresalind8031]

Gal and a Van!! Great tour. You look fantastic!! I do watch Joni, when I am able Always 👍 to you!

[@technomage2017]

Great van life explanation, little bit in awe, wish the world was open,

[@geraldineross5168]

Love how you set up your van perfect!

[@elainelipscomb1476]

I lived in the woods and I put oil of cloves on cotton balls in every drawer.and whole cloves in open spaces under cupboards. Never had a mouse.

[@nancypettet1515]

Great idea for shelves and soft baskets. Great ideas

[@ChrisW228]

When discussing eco friendly build products, I wish more people would discuss price. Unfortunately, price becomes the determining factor sometimes, so it’s just good information to have.

[@lindal2055]

Glad to see someone who has done the van life for several years! Shows the sustainable of living on the road. Mail delivery would stink like she mentioned but otherwise it's great flexibility!

[@reissouthworth3978]

What do we really need snail mail for?

[@clarekelsey2774]

Joanie, Great vid...to the point, helpful in such a practical way without showing us every item in every bin or drawer, great sharing the *specifics* of exactly how/why ur van friends are so warm & welcoming. All the kinds of info a truly seasoned, happy full time nomad would share. SO SO SO great how responsible u r re: the environment even in ur build. If they aren't already (I have very small screen) could u list the info for ur non-off-gassinng flooring, eco-friendly counters - where one might find them...and ur shower head too. THANK U for the best, most substantively helpful, tour out the hundreds I've seen over the last couple yrs. I've been researching.

[@hollykelley4704]

I LOVE YOUR WIND SHIELD COVER. MOST ARE THIN , YOURS LOOK WELL INSULATED. THANK YOU FOR THE TOUR. GOD BLESS AND BE SAFE OUT THERE.

[@patriciatwalsh4479]

You are really organized your van looks wonderful . Great ideas to downsize unnecessary items for cooking and clothing. Thank you for sharing. Like the bins.

[@bangbangcfp]

Great tour. I saw your first one years ago. I look forward to getting a van. I’m SUV/ tent right now. Great fun but a lot of work. Thanks for your tour. Have fun😊

[@scotts.2624]

I have had Marmolium as my bathroom floor for 14 years and it is still new looking and strong. That stuff is tuff.

[@kittycollum5901]

Love this van tour, and everything this lady advocates. The van is awesome. Thank you for a wonderful tour. You were concise. Can’t wait to check out your other sites. I so wish I could have done this in my younger years. I am 72 and since 1999, I have not been in too good a health so I would be limited in lots of things. I have a husband, daughter, 18 year old grandson, and his daddy. But I would have been traveling alone if I could have . I would be going to bluegrass festivals all over the southeastern part of the country in the summer and fall mostly. Oh, well, those would have been my dreams. Continue to have a good life and live it like you want too. You are blessed. 🙏🏻🙏🏻❤️

[@Learning2luvME]

Very nice! I thought I wanted a tiny house but now I’m considering this. I love to travel! Enjoy!❣️

[@cynthiabayly5402]

I agree ` I have been watching these kinds of videos for past couple of months, I have a few fav peeps I watch - Love it .. - But definetly seems awesome _ I Love the Independece for sure ..

[@ginnyberg9271]

I love how you have your refrigerator turn the other way I love how you have your cans labeled and there was something else darn it I took a photo of it so I can remember great layout

[@giselahelconidafernandez2702]

Wow! Great! Thanks for sharing your van life. Nice to know you are in essential oil business.

[@julietagarner7047]

VERY NICE HOME!!! I must start downsizing my apartment.

[@theresaromero2855]

I really enjoyed your video. I will keep your info and follow. I may possibly be out there, adventuring, in the future, and will look to your guidance. Thanks for being a guiding light. 💗

[@karabuccs7043]

Thankyou from australia, beautiful van and lovely lady

[@aprilbaxter2578]

Very thoughtful build! I really like it. Your ideas for saving space are great. I appreciate the advice.

[@mitsim]

This is the first time I've seen your channel! Really enjoyed. And I got a big smile on my face because I'm on day 47 on the 100 day wool& challenge. Wool is awesome. And so is your home! Thanks for sharing.

[@TheGalavan]

Love it!

[@tongaljohnson6060]

Like your home cozy.

[@JoelWelter]

We carry way too many dishes, glasses, silverware pieces, etc.. We have the room, but never use them, so her philosophy is great for that. However, I just can't wear a shirt or undergarments more than one day (unless there is no option). Good interview and van!

[@domainnameguy]

this video will be viewed millions of times great van tour and good point made about storage etc eg no need for lots of storage etc but the key to vanlife is Less possesions = more living space and can you do a vlog on the process of buying a new mercedes sprinter direct from mercedes manufacturer which would probably be the same process for someone ordering the new shape vw crafter etc eg time it takes from ordering van to delivery to the states etc wont affect me as i am in the uk but many people in the states may be looking to buy a new mercedes sprinter from the manufacturer etc and be unsure of the process or timescale etc and or price of new van direct etc

[@homebody1160]

I'm a part timer and everytime I am back at home I am fantasizing about taking the bus back out for all the reasons she mentioned.

[@TheGalavan]

Maybe it's time to change your "Home Body" to something more expansive! 😊

[@homebody1160]

@@TheGalavan the bus is the Home I’m sometimes referring to. I like to stay at home but I also like to move the home around.

[@MMm-gz6eu]

Thank you for a great tour of your beautiful home on wheels. I love it. 👍👍👍❤️❤️❤️

[@gailkellum832]

Well done video, perfect music and show and tell style. Sorry, loss of better words. Hope to see you out there one day. Safe travels.

[@marydurgin5654]

It's so nice to see you again. I do really enjoy your videos . I'm not sure why I haven't seen you on utube. I am subscribed. Loved your tour and your sensibility.

[@allisonbachmann2198]

I love your van and your video. Just the other day, while contemplating cutting my own hair rather than having a stylist breathing on me, I wondered if there were nomad hair dressers who might provide that service to van dwellers. I guess not, huh? Seems like there might be a market for it and a way to install the sink and cutting station to the garage area or somewhere.

[@TheGalavan]

I've had a few nomadic cuts - just a chair outside is all that's needed. But no one cuts my hair as well as the gal in my hometown! ;-)

[@starla8749]

Love the van design . You made me smile. I also have very straight hair and it's very fine. Switching up hairstylist can be a nightmare. Take care and stay blessed.

[@RuthShultz47]

Really enjoyed your video on KZbin. Looks like you are a happy person with a great life. Good for you! Enjoy! Do what YOU want to do. If someone wants to join you in your quest, think and take time in figuring whether you want them to do that. Just a few suggestions from an old lady in her '70s to the lovely lady that made this video. Most of all...continue to enjoy your van life!

[@chrystalsabin4091]

I am so impressed with this woman and her van. I hope to be in my own van and traveling where ever I want to go by next fall. Of course I will head south for the winter and north for the summer.

[@TheGalavan]

Thanks, and congratulations on your journey. How far along is your build?

[@chrystalsabin4091]

@@TheGalavan Hopefully by early spring.

[@taniaburton7559]

Freezer frig is brilliant. Thank you for your footprint 😁

[@sdale7542]

I learned something new! Never heard of a wool Tshirt b4 your video!!

[@nancyleab]

You have the most fun colorful van I have seen Great job on the design

[@anninquirer2121]

I like the freezer idea.

[@lisaandlilybass]

Very awesome build simple but usable

[@primrozie]

Very nice home. We are just in the process of building. So many beautiful vans to get ideas from.

[@62WILDCAT]

Have you thought about using a Mail/Pack/Ship Place ? I've moved several places since 2010 ( some staying with friends ,some renting ) so all my mail goes to one place. It can be sent to me wherever I may be for a couple weeks. Could be sent overnight if necessary. It also allowed me to keep same address for Drivers License. Only thing I couldn't do was register to vote with it. A stationery friend has allowed me to use her address for voting. It's near where I did live in a house I owned several years ago. Later I may change that too.Knowing about the place Bob Wells has told on his Cheap Living RV KZbin videos is a possibility in Arizona .

[@candymcclure2476]

Be safe and have a Merry Christmas. Love and prayers Gramma Candy

[@norm5785]

Very nice functional build. Have a wonderful journey.

[@TheGalavan]

Thank you!

[@kathiwright4849]

well thought out and beautiful

[@cynthiachambers4105]

A Very Comfortable Design Functional Van 🙏😇😷😊

[@tomhawley2711]

Thanks for sharing your van experience. Great setup!

[@wendyfilice7101]

I love Joni and the Galavan. 😍

[@TheGalavan]

Aw, thanks! 😊

[@realtruth3731]

Great built! One suggestion: You may want to consider not sleeping with your head at the door (feet at the door would be safer) if the van is hit from behind it could be really bad. Just a suggestion!