10 Regrets & Favorites in my DIY Camper Van

[@Lt184]

Though you are right about always try to think out all the placement of items, BUT as far as your spare tire. It’s better to have a rear tire carrier rather than a spare under the van, you may not go off roading too much but you may still find a time when you need your tire and are unable to access it as its under the van…. Also since you mentioned AT tires might look into installing an Agile Off Road Rip kit, along w/them wheels just saying. And as for the screens get the Rolef best bang for the buck, and for your window coverings check into VanMade gear…

[@JuliaBrooke]

Oh wow thank you so much!! I'm going to pin your comment just so I can come back to it later and anyone else whose interested in these products can check them out!🚐🙏🏼

[@Lt184]

@@JuliaBrooke Wow, nice enough for a reply but a 📌, glad to help. There are other company/brands as well, unfortunately some are a tad $$$… But in the long run, no matter what you choose long as you find ones that make your van better for you will undoubtedly improve your enjoyment of your rig…. Best of luck on the upgrades, and keep doing you and enjoy the journey and be safe.

[@jeremynkelley]

“Setting up ANYTHINGGG makes you not want to do it” might very well be the truest vanlive words ever spoken. My next build will have a permanent shower and I’m kind of stoked.

[@JuliaBrooke]

Seriously! 😂 ANY set up makes me 90% less likely to do it!

[@goldeneddie]

"Setting up ANYTHING makes you not want to do it". Yep. Nailed it.

[@rachelharper4533]

Hey Julia! Just an idea for a diy scratching post: sisal rope is pretty cheap and you could wrap it around the poll that your dinette table stands on. It won’t be a wide scratching post but it might work.

[@MurrayCohenbluesandwhisky]

Julia, as a senior citizen and a retired professional in a hospital practice for 30 years, I can tell you that you have a very versatile presentation style indicative of good insight, inviting personality, effective interpersonal skills and maturity. I have watched a number of your videos and I enjoy your journey of discovery, both geographically and of your own identity from here in Canada. I wish you well.

[@JuliaBrooke]

Murray, this comment really just made my day 110x better. Thank you so much, I didn't realize how much I needed to hear this 🚐💙

[@MurrayCohenbluesandwhisky]

@@JuliaBrooke You are most welcome Julia.

[@theloveyourfacegal2773]

I really like how you designed your van & your esthetics. Alot of good info especially for someone wanting to try that life style. You are a pretty young lady inside & out stay safe & cute 😍 dress. Thanks for sharing 💕

[@reahamorrondael6006]

I'm happy to see that your channel is growing. I'm happy for you. Thank you for a wonderful content. Take care always. 🤗❤

[@richarddennis1453]

I love your blue and white dress blue is my favorite color... the color blue makes your eyes pop.. you are so beautiful 💕

[@RicardoRoams]

You did a fine job with your van build. An AWD Ford van was an excellent choice. But I would caution you on draining your sink water. Even though you might be using biodegradable soap, draining the water from the sink to the ground is not allowed in most parks. There are even restrictions on some National Forests and BLM lands. I enjoy your energy. Continued safe travels.

[@strawberi6257]

Great insightful video! I got a $120 versatility teardrop awning. Takes about 10 min to set up, folds down into a little duffle bag and helps with stealth. I went with a telescoping ladder since I didn't want anyone to have access to the top of my van, $120 for 10.5 ft. Both store in my garage area. I went with a perfect tear paper towel holder for $19 because it doesn't unravel. As someone else suggested, self adhesive carpet tiles on the side of bench with kitty litter would work great. $12 for a dozen 12 inch squares. All things I've mentioned were purchased from Amazon. You've done an amazing job with your van build! Enjoy!! Safe travels 😎

[@heatherfeather1293]

Oh for Maui - you can get a small kitty tree with a built in scratcher. When he gets the zoomies, he will go play on it. Mine does that when he gets the zoomies (approximately every 4 hours LOL) I agree about a shower too. For me, that will be a necessity

[@angelamarks3050]

It was so good to meet you in person yesterday! ❤

[@JuliaBrooke]

Omg hi yes it was so nice to meet you too!! Thanks for saying hello!🥹❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@gariushill2422]

Great design! Very helpful tips! TY!

[@robertquinn1945]

Love ❤️ your van build ❤❤❤ pretty cool 😎

[@ThatGirlLib]

I think the freestanding showers take up to much space and makes the inside feel smaller. I like the hidden shower, since I take military style showers I don’t need the blocked space for something I’ll only use for 3 minutes. I like Ryan Twomey’s shower. His pan is built into the floor and it takes very little time to just pull the curtain up and hang it. 👀

[@adisornarcis480]

Very nice van camper.Don t wory girl.❤I like your eres!

[@madilynndawn]

you have the best layout for your size van I have seen!!! AND U DID IT YOURSELF!!! So pretty and homey 🤍 🏠 🚐

[@JuliaBrooke]

STOP TYSM😭😭❤️❤️❤️🚐🚐✨🌷🐾🐈🐕

[@akbargabbar505]

Julia's very heard worker best youtuber Soooo Pretty🌷💞☞🚐⛺❤❤❤

[@BigAirPete]

Best video yet

[@myschka9178]

there was a video where this girl had her closet pull out and there was a shower behind it, it was called "SOLO FEMALE Van Conversion w/ INSANE UNIQUE all-in-one SHOWER WARDROBE" not sure if this helps but it looks like that's a way to work a shower in without extending. it's really impressive that you built this btw, and i love how cozy it looks compared to other vans!

[@JuliaBrooke]

Sadly my build is done so I can't easily add anything to it 😂 but thanks I'll have to check it out!!🙏🏼🙏🏼🚐

[@strawberi6257]

​@@JuliaBrooke If you check out the video and like that design, you could remodel. The biggest challenge would be relocating propane

[@rixanneh18]

Hey Brooke, I'm new! came over from Mad's channel. I built out my own van too back in 2018. A suggestion for your back window covers that won't stay up. Magnets! Your covers on them look really pretty. If you want to keep them that way, cut a little slit on the corners and one drop of super glue on a magnet will hold it in place inside the fabric. u could even use the super glue to reclose the slit. I use guerilla glue. Then when you put up your window covers they snap themselves right into place and stay there. The only problem you *might* have is that the magnets are super strong, and may rip through your material. So you could use a clear duct tape as well to attach them inside: take the magnet and hold it in place in or on the fabric. I love mine. So quick to put up or take down.

[@JuliaBrooke]

Love this thank you!! I have magnets on them currently but I think I need stronger ones!😅

[@SharonAvery]

You can put a bench that has a shower inside it. Just need to water proof it and add a hose to it or a screw drain below where you can insert said hose 😊 put some hooks in the ceiling for a shower curtain and use a shower bag to hang. “You got a shower if needed” PS u don’t need a hot water heater just boil a little water add to room temp water to have a hot shower 😊

[@gerredstallings465]

Don't let your regrets get to u u can always put in later what u couldn't before just be grateful for what u able to put in and use

[@jy7841]

Id think the skylight would let in way more heat and more cold. Also another area for someone to break in. Having the bed lower also gives up alot of soace in the garage.

[@FrogWizard62]

This is the most unique list of van build regrets I’ve seen.

[@vickieyoung7122]

I love your van..the white cabinets with the gold hardware looks fab...I would have to have a shower but your making it all work...great job on the build

[@yvettehatrak787]

Love your van build so much, Julie and love you and Maui!! Can't wait to see the changes/upgrades you are going to make!

[@cabracove]

Cool van and fun to find your videos, the power things an issue though, because now you need some new space. I have 400 amps hrs and a DC to DC charger. 200 watts of solar will keep it mostly charged if the suns out, but if it rains for some time I have to get moving even with that much

[@chicaboho4050]

I have a dream of owning a van for camping but I really love yours , and I enjoy your videos I just started watching your videos yesterday I can’t stop !!!

[@JuliaBrooke]

Omg welcome and thank you!!🥹❤️❤️

[@paulkimball4815]

You be safe out there and have fun with life

[@kevkev5935]

This is amazing. You did such an awesome job on this build. Makes me want to build out a van just for some epic road trips. Subscribe button smashed!!!

[@mytranslucentreflections8995]

Oof about the diesel heater exhaust... That said, actually getting your tire out from under there is supposed to be awful! I found out (I should not have been surprised) that tire mount wasn't going to work just before leaving on my big trip 😏. It wound up taking up half of what I'd intended to utilize as my kitchen for the duration as I seriously considered having someone put it on my roof rack. I FINALLY have a plan for it I think as a disussion with a mechanic who is also a friend of mine has worked out how to mount it to my rear hitch without fully blocking my rear door! (buying one of those hitches is $$$!) Anyway, my point is that I have only found a decent place to mount my spare after a lot of serious consideration AND a friend who is willing and able to customize something for me! Almost every spot/method poses a different problem... (Obviously this does not make going without one a good idea! There are options, it's about finding the best one for you and your vehicle)

[@TheAbandonedAccount7]

your van is perfect. I want an AWD 148 Transit either low roof or medium roof

[@JuliaBrooke]

I'd do medium! My last van build was low roof and I didn't realize how much it affected my back until I got this van where I can stand. I still need to stretch a lot but my back and leg health has really improved!

[@TheAbandonedAccount7]

@@JuliaBrooke Yea, I get that. I have a really bad back. Unfortunately my decision will be based on finances 😅 If I can afford the medium, then, totally! You actually inspired me to go with Ford transit. Originally wanted sprinter, then I wanted a promaster but watching ur vids made me decide on a transit lol!

[@ruebennomura9143]

Love you this video about 10 thing of regrets and thing of van life too

[@sherrieeverett4733]

I love your van! I also have a transit. Did you think about weight distribution when you built? I kind of have a no build build, lol. I have some electrical and walls. I look forward to storage and cabinets and sink! Any insight would be helpful! Thanks. Good job on your build!

[@EatPrayVan]

Your van is so beautiful 😍, my fan is a factory converted class b/rv van, I really love my van and have added a bit of homeyness here and there. I don’t know if I could have stayed the course converting one on my own, you did such an impressive job! ❤

[@Persephone20000]

thank you for me of things you love and regret about your van. makes me consider more what to do with my van !

[@grannyanniesfarm4972]

SUGGESTION for the cat's scratching post...on the bench seat his litter box is in, glue a flat one to the side of the bench. Use either carpet or rope run back and forth like a Christmas tree or square..... Yes, all terrain tires are a must! You will wonder why you didn't get them sooner. Make sure they come with Road Hazzard warranty ...... A shower in your van will greatly raise the humidity level and increase chances of mold and mildew. Not fun. Baby wipes are great for a quick wipe down. Can even re-wet them at the sink if needed. No soap needed. Thank you for sharing. This also helps those of us converting small, old travel trailers into tiny homes. Have a blessed day!

[@JuliaBrooke]

Great idea! I'll have to try that thank you!🙏🏼💖

[@grannyanniesfarm4972]

@@JuliaBrooke you are welcome! You can get some scent spray I think at the pet store to put on it to en oursge him to use it. Or if possible, pull the one off his current post and flatten it out.

[@Ann-cx3dd]

You are a super impressive 22 year old! I mean, seriously! How did you learn to build all of that? How did you learn to set up your electrical & create the interior of your van? Did you take tutorials or did you just "wing it?" I think what you are doing can send a very powerful message to young women everywhere - - go after your dreams, be brave & strong & make it happen! I wish I had been that brave at 22..... awesome job on all!

[@JuliaBrooke]

Haha thank you!! I think it was gradual learning, I used to refurnish furniture to sell, then I built out some of my previous van (a 1982 chevy g-30) and I had to learn how to work on cars with it as well (since it was so old and sat for so long, a new part went out every week!) which I had to fix myself. I think that experience plus KZbin tutorials and lots of phone calls with the Renogy help line (for my electric system 😂) all prepped me for the van build! 😭❤️🙏🏼🚐✨

[@jasonjones5213]

Good video, great info.

[@Ann-cx3dd]

P.S. Please be safe out there on your own! If you can, put your window coverings up as soon as you park & don't turn your lights on until you do that. Also, if you can, close your partition before you turn your lights on..... try to park near others & keep protection near the door. Also, don't tell ppl where you are headed, but mention where you have been after you have left there. Don't want to worry you, but gotta be careful out there. Your home is super homey, cozy & cute - - I'd love a van like that! : )

[@derekdestep40]

You should get a jackery

[@akbargabbar505]

So wonderful fantastic video💞 Love this☞❤🚐

[@leopardsweetpea]

I know it’s hard to have a P.O. Box because you travel but please consider it! I’d love to send you some stuff! Also, think about an Amazon wishlist girl! You’d be surprised how many others will buy stuff for ya. I know I would! Love your content. Much love to you and Maui as always 😻❤🚐

[@JuliaBrooke]

Omg maybe I will open a PO Box! Especially if you want to send me any home made diy goodies (my favorite hehe!), and it could be a good way to share small business' as well!💖 I'll have to keep you updated! Thanks for the idea!!

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

Sounds like you need a DC DC charger between your lithium and your alternator. Lithium can suck too many amps...and your alternator will get too hot in certain situations.

[@alexandracalin2875]

You could use the leg table as a scratching post for the cat😇

[@JuliaBrooke]

OMG THIS is the best idea ever wow!!! Thank you! I’m going to see if I can wrap it in a rope for him! Thank you!!❤️❤️

[@petersimpson633]

'Penny wise, pound foolish' is the concept I think you were espousing in your last comment

[@MannyWC]

How did you screw in your extra door handle on the slider without the screws coming loose?

[@JuliaBrooke]

On my sliding door? It's secured with 2 self tapping screws👍🏼✨

[@elizabethdugu]

Completely unrelated to your van but you look gorgeous in that dress! 💙

[@JuliaBrooke]

Omg thank you so much🥹❤️

[@terrygreg1988]

2 👍👍 up beautiful stay safe out there 🤞💕🥾🇺🇸 🐈😺😺🐈🎉

[@tonysofrito1]

Hello Julia I like watching your videos is cool you set up your own Camping van a gorgeous independent woman

[@ncp3077]

How tall are you? I'm 5'9 and I wonder would I be ducking down all the time.🤔

[@JuliaBrooke]

I'm 5'2! 😂🙏🏼🚐

[@moonlesslamb]

New sub❤

[@glenvehmeier9417]

I noticed every one I follow on you tube are doing shorts is there a reason

[@JuliaBrooke]

Haha yes! It's because KZbin is really pushing shorts right now so it helps us as creators to expand our audience! Plus it's just a fun new way of making content🙏🏼🚐✨

[@glenvehmeier9417]

@@JuliaBrooke OK that's cool thanks also you are extremely cute in all you say and do

[@ChandraSekhar-zv7vj]

Hi❤ nce video dear 💐❤

[@zorancvjetinovic5185]

❤❤❤from🇨🇦

[@gypsycruiser]

No one ever talks about cooking smells within a confined space..

[@amritsainitamber4250]

Love From Punjab India

[@anthlons]

SLAY

[@MuhammadZubair-bj7uu]

Hello how are you and nice video and nice and very beautiful lady 🌸🌻🥀🌷🌺🌼🏵️🌹💐

[@iammwaning]

8:12 I’m sorry but this had me dying

[@JuliaBrooke]

SAME AHAHAH I'M GLAD YOU LIKED IT

[@СветланаСтрионова-ь2и]

неужели ты одинока если так то очень жаль такая приятная и красивая !

[@rraaddff]

I have a 3D printer and I can make you a paper towel holder for you for free. I would love to make it for you if you would like that

[@ShamimJahuri]

Life.i will meet you or I invite you.just wait.i am list without you.shamim,ban🦋🌻🌺🤝

[@jimmariano9684]

watch ame in a van she a nice small shower inside her van which is as big as yours or i think your's is bigger

[@walteragentplummer7031]

Can you do a slow motion video of you climbing thru your sunlight window? 😂❤

[@MuhammadZubair-bj7uu]

Hello how are you and nice video and nice and very beautiful lady 💐🌹🏵️🌼🌺🌷🥀🌻🌸