Vanlife: Alternative HEAT Source You Need To Know About

[@RonsWorld5]

When I was in the USAF stationed in North Dakota, one of my duties was to guard B-52 bombers at night in sub-below-zero temperatures. I was given a guard shack that just kept the snow and wind off of me but it had no heat source. As a workaround, I used Sterno (2.5hr) canisters. So, on an 8-hr shift, I would have a minimum of 3 cannisters with me. Oftentimes, I would light a canister just to knock the cold out of the air and then extinguish it and light it back up as needed. They were great and they do work. I used a Terra Cotta Pot large enough to fit over the canister and drill holes in it. This worked like a charm in radiating heat. I like that your system is secured.

[@LadyBugout]

That is awesome! Yes, I was so pleasantly surprised at how well it worked. I love when simple solutions work out well🤗

[@candiseadkins8671]

Remember heat rises so your floors will be colder, a rechargeable mini fan placed high and faced down will even out the temp.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes. Thank you!

[@carolynnewyork6919]

Girl, you are a high rent landlords night mare 4 real y'all she shows you how living free looks. Alternative living is the way of the future. Japan knew it years ago . They did hotels in pods. Amen 2 the safety skills you display. Bless all of you nomads out there.

[@LadyBugout]

That is kind of you to say. I do think ‘simpler’ makes for better solutions most of the time. Thanks for the encouragement!🙂

[@susankievman642]

Camping in winter weather looks like a nightmare to me. why would anyone choose that? Living in such tight quarters in the middle of the winter?? No thanks.

[@naelyneurkopfen9741]

​@@susankievman642Well, if you can afford rent/mortgage, utilities etc., that's great! If not, this is a viable solution for many. Don't knock it til you've tried it. You might learn a great deal about yourself and what's really important.

[@Shannon5909]

A terra cotta pot works like a charm inside your van!! I'm in Canada and I've put a terracotta pot over a gel canister and it worked great! Safe and happy travels darlin!

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for the tip! Good to know🤗

[@kennylin4067]

I used little butane stove turning very low heat, then cover it with 7” terracotta pot for past three years inside my RunAway camper. I been sleeping very well wintertime. I crack the windows both side for safety.

[@paulettepoppen243]

The heat absorbed by planter will give a little heat after light is out.

[@78twood]

I never got much, if any heat from the terra cotta heater

[@yourspeedyretirement]

Take the empty fuel container you were burning, fill it 3/4 or a little more with epson salt, add rubbing alcohol & ignite. It will release some air cleaning negative ions, plopping the lid on it will extinguish the flame- no nasty smell or anything- add more alcohol when needed. See how that works if you can't locate any more of the ethanol fuel..

[@LadyBugout]

Wow! Thanks for the tip! I’ll have to try that😃

[@nancybrowning3380]

what does the epson salt do when you light the rubbing alcohol? does it burn OR?

[@yourspeedyretirement]

@@nancybrowning3380 It slows it down, keeps it from spilling, it burns longer and emits negative ions (like after it rains)

[@rs5570]

No eick is needed, then? That’s very clever. I’m wondering how quickly the epsom salt snd alcohol burn… In the US the cost of rubbing alcohol had become a joke because of covid. They are just charging a fortune for it. For months and mos u couldn’t even get it. Perhaps buying huge bottles on Ebay or something, In yhr shops hete rpsom is about $5 for 2 cups or do, so it’s very high, too. But giving off neg ions is great. I would love that. I’m planning to het on the toaf next winter so I’d like to try this in my apt to sort it out. Thanks.

[@rs5570]

Sorry for all the typos.

[@SparklingMyLife]

Thank you for putting Celsius on the screen. I remember my mom using something like this little stove while at a hotel that had problems with its heating. And she would prepare easy to do meals, too. I bet was cold in the room, still, but all I remember is the heat and my mom taking care of us, kids. So, thank you for unlocking this memory! :)

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for sharing! I’m glad it brought back good memories☺️

[@mielesutter4159]

If you don't have the gel, toilet paper drowned in rubbing alcohol does the same. Cheaper too. I used a soup can, entire roll of toilet paper on my first camping trip so i could have a 'would-be' camp fire. It lasted for ever. I finally stuck it the middle of an actual fire pit and went bed. Just a thought.

[@LadyBugout]

That is a great suggestion.

[@rs5570]

To clarify you leave the paper on the roll, as is, and set it inside a suitable metal container.

[@tomwilliam5118]

If you get a terracotta pot that's large enough to sit on the burners with the pot upside down and a hole in the bottom of the terracotta pot. The alcohol burner will heat the terracotta pot and give you about three times as much heat. I've used them with candles before and they work great. The pot captures and allows the heat to radiate

[@LadyBugout]

I talked about the flower pots. Good idea☺️

[@marieroads1650]

Simple, creative ways of 'homekeeping' can bring much satisfaction. As others here have noted, double duty is optimal. To add to the heat, you could 'capture' some for later. Black, smooth, flat landscaping rocks could be heated on foil (to protect pan) in a pan on your heater. Use tongs or pliers or work gloves and then sandwich them flat between towels in your bed. The towels are for gathering back up. They aren't that bad to sleep on or just at feet area. Some can go inside clothing pockets or between layers. A small, cloth bag/pouch with a few can be stuffed where needed. The same pouch can hold sooty, hot rocks from a campfire. Many hardware or nurseries carry the 'river rock' or great 'hunting' on walks looking for the flattest rocks (igneous is good) that won't break when heated. Heat YOU! The same goes for summer heat. Pack yourself with reusable ice packs (or plastic ice cubes) to cut back (or off) the A/C. Both lasts for hours. Also, ceramic tiles work. A good sized one to preheat the bed (but will break if sat on) or many of the small (backsplash) ones instead of the flat rocks. Happy Heating!!

[@LadyBugout]

Great suggestion! So true!

[@paulettepoppen243]

I have ran into sterno tins at a dollar store in the party section. A couple years ago they were 2 for $1. I got a few of them for emergency and use in my small chimnea. Also a chef friend told me on the wide lids you can cover 1/2 to slow down the fire to last longer.

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for the tip!!!🤗

[@marthahackett8967]

Hi Lady Bugout you give really good advice. I like that wooden stand and metal insert. I recently was in my van in 7 degree weather in Pennsylvania I used the Crisco and flower pot method to take the chill off my van I used 2 and they worked well. I was toasty in my sleeping bag. It brought the temp in the van up to 42 degrees. That was enough to get out of bed and move around and cook without feeling like I was freezing. Outside the wind was howling but I was warm. Once I turned on my stove to heat water and make breakfast I was really comfortable. I love the look of your wooden stand. Be Blessed

[@LadyBugout]

Sounds like a great system!

[@designdoctor247]

wow amazing how God kept u safe and warm. what an encouraging comment. thank u for helping us all.

[@robertbarker5802]

I wonder if instead of a fragile flower pot you could find a small enough cast iron dutch oven to make it a radiant heater. If that's the right term.

[@LadyBugout]

That’s a great idea!!!

[@fmkfmk3835]

Lady Bugout excellent video this is a good alternative for heating a small van I give you a little trick that will triple the heat try to find an old cast iron stove round that you put on top of your flame and you will see the difference good continuation has your channel... 👍 (sorry i use a translator i'm from canadian french)

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you for the great suggestion!

[@funcheckout9701]

Glad to see you have this gel food warmer, its exactly the type of ' food warmer I was recommending. Good job. The only thing that would concern me is if the gel would be hard on the lungs over say natural beeswax candles. However if you find beeswax candles you could melt them in your empty gel container and add a wick.

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for the tips!

[@markrenfrow9873]

Hey Ms. Dee ! Glad you have the CO detector. I wonder if oxygen levels could get too low without tripping it. Also wonder what happens if the gel canister gets tipped over (of course My fur kids would Never do that). Always good to have another option to stay warm, including heading south, or moochdocking and borrowing a couple of cups of electricity to run an electric heater. Stay warm and safe !

[@LadyBugout]

No idea…but my van is not that airtight and I always have it ventilated. AND… no fur buddies to tip it over🤗

[@Lizapendleton]

I use a terracotta pot over a metal cutlery holder (the Ikea type with holes). In the cutlery holder I put 3 tealights. It works really well.

[@LadyBugout]

That’s a great idea!!!!

[@roxywyndham]

I have a terracotta pot ima try that , I’ll look for the metal cutlery holder.

[@rs5570]

You could use anything metal. Evem an empty tuma can.

[@Lizapendleton]

@@rs5570 cutlery holder got holes in it though.

[@Lulu5771]

First I want to say your van is absolutely beautiful. I love the layout, the colors and overall vibe. As far as keeping warm, have you tried using hot water bottles? I find them invaluable for keeping me warm in bed but also just hanging out. They don’t heat the space but I use two and put them in my bed, one at my feet and one on my mid back. They really help a lot and are pretty inexpensive. I hope you are toasty warm!!

[@LadyBugout]

I use one almost every night in the cold.🤗

[@LadyBugout]

Here is the link to a video I talk about my methods to stay warm! kzbin.info/www/bejne/epurYaV9jK2XfMk

[@daylenestaneart775]

This video had the exact information I’ve been looking for. Thank you! You have a new subscriber. 🦋

[@lilyandrose8557]

I'm using my hot water bottle for winter and it's so good!

[@normak63]

Just a thought.. instead of a ceramic pot, maybe a metal cooking pot turned upside down resting on the prongs so air can get to the flame. Maybe get a cheap pot from goodwill. Don't know if it works but worth a try. Plus for extra protection place the stove inside a large baking tray/dish. Love you, stay safe and warm ♥️♥️♥️

[@LadyBugout]

Great ideas. ☺️

[@theresabauknight3218]

You can get a aluminum grease splitter guard for small cooking stove. To reflect heat back into the camper.

[@LadyBugout]

Great idea!

[@jillrichards8260]

There is a folding metal screen that can be used around a small stove to stop the flame from going out which I think would be perfect around your little warmer ( I looked it up. Amazon is sold out :( your warmer not the screen :)

[@cathieperezreyes]

Wow Dee, that gel canister really works! Not sure if you saw it, but Bob recently had a video burning Crisco for heat! Thanks for another helpful idea 😊 stay safe and warm!!!

[@tomcaldwell5750]

I have a problem with an open flame in side a vehicle, too many flammable materials inside, Especially when the vehicle is used for living space.

[@cathieperezreyes]

@@tomcaldwell5750 I agree that it could be quite dangerous if unattended

[@LadyBugout]

Hey Cathie! I saw a thumbnail for it but didn’t watch it. Very cool 😎

[@REVNUMANEWBERN]

@@tomcaldwell5750 Yep, very POTENTIAL dangerous situation, I wouldn't recommend such to anyone, say you doze off & accidentally turn it over

[@LadyBugout]

@@REVNUMANEWBERN and @Tom Caldwell There's always a POTENTIAL for danger with fire in a small space. I assure you, I take every precaution. But thanks for the concern. 🙂

[@miriamhawkins7825]

I use a Kelly Kettle scout with sterno. The water in the kettle stays warm quite awhile after the sterno is out but the water can always be heated/reheated as needed to save on fuel.

[@LadyBugout]

Nice! That is a great hack☺️

[@bjodaddyo]

Would it be safe to put a mini cast iron skillet, on the gel fire, to help radiate heat? We used to use a big cast iron skillet on the stove burner back in the days when our house would get really cold. We didn't have a heater at that time.

[@LadyBugout]

Hmmmm… I’ll have to check that out.

[@62WILDCAT]

I'd put a cast iron pot on the fire, filled with water maybe ,let it get hot. Then extinguish the fire. Cast iron stays hot for long time.

[@LadyBugout]

That’s an interesting idea🤔 Maybe I’ll test it one of these times!!!

[@jackiedotson5804]

I like this idea. As you said it wouldn’t be good for everyone but I’m thinking it might be good for me. I’m going to check it out. 💕

[@LadyBugout]

Nice! It’s been a good little addition.☺️

[@leese.23]

They sell ethanol canisters at Dollar Tree. Can't remember how long they last but they are safe for inside...used for catering, etc.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know! Thank you☺️

[@vickiegroome3220]

Just saw a guy using sand in a Dutch oven or a coffee can. Heat it up then sit one of those fans that blow air based off heat.

[@LadyBugout]

Wha???? That’s so cool. I’ll have to look for that😃

[@DannyB-cs9vx]

Instead of ceramic pot use an old tin can. The idea is change convection heat to radiant heat. There are basically three types of heat transfer. conduction, convection and radiant. A reflective space blanket on top of and below your bedding also will help keep you warm.Regular insulation does little to stop radiant heat. Some say at night 60% of the heat your body loses is from radiant energy leaving you.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know!

[@blancacadenas1772]

She’s a happy and strong woman, always smiling no matter how the weather is, she’s admirable!🤩

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you for such positivity and encouragement 🥰

[@lyndamaewilson3453]

If you are concerned about the open flame when using indoors . You can make a chimney using a tin can open on both ends. Or use a pot of water for moisture if needed.

[@LadyBugout]

Interesting idea!!!

[@keith3694]

I would have bet the farm that little gadget wouldn’t have warmed a ticks belly button! I stand corrected!

[@LadyBugout]

Right?!? I’m glad I was able to test and see results so quickly!☺️

[@dianastoevelaar9548]

Dearest Dee, 🌹 Although I have hit the like button on every one of your videos, and I can’t ever get enough of them, I may have never left a comment, and I apologize for that. 🤗 Your authentic and touching presence always lifts my spirits and has me smiling along with your gorgeous smile. 😀 You are such an inspiring, free spirit, and your beauty, and the beauty of your aesthetically pleasing, well, organized van, is so inspiring, and a feast for the eyes. 😍 At this point in my life, I am still in the planning and dreaming stages of how I can manifest what you so effortless, seem to do. You inspire me with every video, to create a life of freedom and exploration, both internally and externally. 🥰 Thank you so much for sharing your special gifts with us. Without realizing it, you are inspiring tens of thousands of people to do what they long to do, with your encouragement, your practical tips, and your authenticity. You communicate in a way that makes us feel like you are our friend, speaking directly to each on of us, personally. 😃 ✨💖💕💖✨ Please never stop sharing your special gifts with us, Dee! 💝You are irreplaceable and I can’t wait to meet you on the road one day. ❤💞❤

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you, Diana! No worries about not commenting- I’m just really glad you are here. Plus, you just made up for it with these kind uplifting words. Dream on!!! You can do it 🥰🙌🏼💪🏼💃🏻🚗🐞

[@rebekahfrye7934]

My son used the clay pot with candles recently to heat his efficiency apartment during the cold snap and outages. He said is worked great. I think I will get one of these little burners for my screened-in porch. I have been wanting something little for warming up a bit and bonus - s'mores! Then I can also take it in the van - win, win! Thanks! Stay Warm!!!

[@LadyBugout]

That’s awesome!

[@johnborges8231]

Great reserve heat source! Cheap to buy and just keep! In my work van I keep a pack of 2 for emergencies. In my personal cargo van I have a diesel heater in it so I can defrost the whole thing in these insane cold snaps. I’ll remotely turn it on from inside the house before I jump in the shower!

[@LadyBugout]

Nice!

[@kensmith5694]

A candle flame is about 75W worth of heat. In a very small space, it can make a good difference. It also eats oxygen and puts out fumes so it may not be too good. Don't put more than one candle under a pot. If the wax gets hot enough to start to boil you have basically a gasoline fire.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know!

[@libbygardner3021]

Thank you for the review! I am concerned about staying warm (I’m one of those people who, if my nose is cold, so are my hands and feet!), but am in a minivan with a soon-to-be large dog. Hopefully, I can avoid temperature extremes most of the time.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, moving with the weather is definitely the best option🤗

[@lyndamaewilson3453]

Have you tried a can of lard just add a wick. It will burn for a very long time.

[@LadyBugout]

I’ve heard that works well!

[@privatepilot4064]

Just be very, very careful about carbon monoxide.

[@LadyBugout]

Yep! Have a detector and am always cognizant of airflow☺️

[@estrellanoche6409]

For those Who use a claypott. Dont use more then 3 tealights .otherwise the heat cant get out and it will start to burn . So pleace stay save.😉

[@WIZ56575]

Good video excellent information try making your own Stern's really not that hard

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks, will do!

[@always.wondering.wandering]

Have you tried sterno, it is a biodegradable alcohol and comes in small cans. I have it for back-up in my van. Bob Wells did a video on the flower pot heat with a Crisco candle. Right now I am trying to figure out a good portable wifi hot spot device/plan, any thoughts on that? Right now when I am at my base location at a friends I use a wifi hot spot I can check out like a book from the library, it's ATT. When I'm traveling I use stores, libraries and such to get a connection. Stay warm, happy travels!

[@LadyBugout]

I have not tried that-this is that same basic idea. I do the same for WiFi. I have been looking for three years lol! 😜

[@carolwillet5176]

You can put a clay pot from the garden area on top of this. It would radiated the heat also.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know!!!

[@name.terrie]

I thought that too. It seemed like it would make a good base for the clay pot heaters.

[@scottdurkee9162]

You don’t follow the seasons ? Come to Corpus Christi for the winter. It’s not crowded like Florida.

[@scottdurkee9162]

Also you can camp on the beach for free for 14 days then just move to different part of the beach

[@LadyBugout]

I do most of the time. Yes it’s beautiful there😊

[@artravision]

I’ve been curious about this type of heater, so it is great to see your real life experience with it. Looks worth a shot. I wonder if it would warm a larger van? So true, about trying simpler solutions first. Thanks for sharing your tips!

[@LadyBugout]

Hey Iishana! I’d be curious as well. If the flower pots do, maybe this would as well. Especially a well insulated space.

[@queeniepop2058]

I love this! Getting one! And I love your subtle use of music!! Perfect volume level in my opinion. 😊 I love your van so much. No matter how many I look at, I love the simplicity and coziness of yours best!

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks so much! 😊 I’m glad you like it.

[@alonememe]

10:25 Shouldn't this burner have some sort of cover? Open fire in a car freaks me out 🤪

[@LadyBugout]

It used to freak me out too. I have slowly warmed up to the idea (pun intended)😝 I do not leave it unattended and I have water and fire extinguishers nearby!!!

[@lat7805]

And meantime, you can also make tea or a soup!

[@LadyBugout]

Yep!!!

[@marthabradas8873]

Thank you for sharing this little camp stove! I also enjoy more options as well , and this would be great to have. I think you have the right approach about trying new products and not having companies just send things to you to try. You always have such good sense 🥰, I always enjoy your videos! Have an awesome week Dee! (And I just ordered the stove, the fuel, and that white teapot from your amazon list :) can't wait to get it. Although the stove that came up when I went to your link was out of stock, so I selected another seller of the same item. You might not get credit for that, I don't know, but hope so!

[@LadyBugout]

I’m so glad you enjoy the channel, Martha! And thanks for wanting to have me get credit for your order. I think if you followed my link over to Amazon, I still get some sort of return for it- I have no idea how it all works😜 I hope you enjoy your little stove. It’s been a nice little addition for me!

[@jessys9868]

Great idea for ambiance and heat! I have a tiny concrete table top “fire pit” that I can burn sticks or alcohol in. I heat up my tiny camper before bed And will stay warm for about four hours. But like you, will never burn it at sleep! I look forward to Saturdays and your videos

[@LadyBugout]

Concrete would be nice too! 🤗

[@richk8173]

Hi, I keep a few of those in my trunk, down at the spare tire area. Last winter I got stuck and lit one of those and a couple straight candles n watched KZbin for like 3 hours waiting on rescue. I just remember my feet being cold n wet haha. Those things only last something like 2.5 or 4 hours. I think their made to heat food at weddings etc. Stay safe out there. If you're ever near buffalo NY , about 90 min south of buffalo feel free to say hi. I got a place to park, shower, crash, extension cord, dinner.. :-) whatever you need. My house is heated by diesel.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, its definitely just a secondary source for me. Thanks for sharing and thanks for the offer. I'll be sure to look you up if I ever get out that way!!!

[@CLdriver1960]

That’s a great idea for heat. (A hot blooded Greek is even better🤣) If you haven’t already tried, I suggest hanging some blankets on your walls and ceiling. Even a little insulation will retain heat better than metal.

[@LadyBugout]

Hahah! Thanks for the tip. I did say that I do that at one point in the video. How’s the flower pot heater doing?

[@CLdriver1960]

@@LadyBugout oops, I missed that! The flowerpot heater works well. I found large tea candles that last nearly 8 hrs. I can only fit 3 of them at a time, but the heat is more than enough for my Promaster. Stay warm! 🤗

[@JAGreen-lj9zi]

🤷‍♀️ lady get you a airfryer and put that thing on top of your stove or counter top. Turn it on, don't block the back of so it will warm up your entire space. I watched a man using it in his camper and he was surprised at how warm his camper got and he said he was going to see about using it just to warm up his camper because his camper was nice and toasty and warm he cooked a small meal while doing it but it just warmed up in the middle of a frosty snow blizzard and of course he had solar batteries and other backup batteries and it uses very little of the battery he loved how it heated up his van.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know. I’ll have to check into it🤗

[@JeffeysMom]

I have a metal heat diffuser I guess you would call it goes on top of my butane stove. I have to take it out of storage because I really could’ve used it when I went camping two weeks ago. It was still chilly here in Texas.❤

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for the tip!

[@TinyHomeCookingwithSherlei]

Love your swing in doorway I did that with a kids hammock lol and Carabiners to hold it up

[@wyrdadventures]

Great find! Thank you for sharing and providing your opinion. Probably doesn't use as much fuel to heat than propane. ❤️

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for watching!

[@antoneperry5352]

Always great to have more heat choices just in case, thanks for what you do and sharing your time with us. Hope to see you at the RTR if you’re in the area. Take care and be safe.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, indeed!!!🤗

[@LaineyBug2020]

Lol, not me trying to convince the mice officer that the opened bottle of Everclear rolling aroumd the backseat is totally for the alcohol burner stove!

[@LadyBugout]

Lol 🤣😂🤣

[@beatrice24encanopee80]

J adore 😂❤️

[@tracyk-79]

I really enjoy watching your channel Dee. You always come up with new and creative ideas for van life. Thank you.❤

[@LadyBugout]

Glad you like them!

[@beckyallen3195]

I enjoy your energy and user-friendly tips. Thank you.

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you Becky☺️

[@omavicmcmurray2893]

That metal burner/frame, that you placed the teapot on, would be ideal to place a terra cottage pot, upside down, on, I know you don’t want something breakable but I am interested in that! Thanks!

[@LadyBugout]

Great idea! I may try out some of the suggestions I’m getting if I can get my hands on them.

[@Lonewolfwilly67]

It seems to be a great stand to support a clay pot as well. I would be curious how that with a candle in place of ethanol would work. Thanks for sharing.😉😁

[@LadyBugout]

Great point! I also use candles. I’ll have to do a comparison and see if the candle does as well.

[@kimers12660]

Instead of a terra-cotta pot, you can put a big rock On top of it, and it will absorb the heat and become radiate heat.

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know!!! I might try that some time💃🏻

[@lindabarker7142]

I like your little ethanol burner. I think its pretty and the flame is mesmerizing.

[@LadyBugout]

There is something awesome about watching flames😝

[@jkxtc2016]

If you put a metal bucket would some holes in the bucket over it it'll radiate heat even more from the metal... Instead of doing the flower pots that are clay... I've seen them do something like that with vegetable oil and a wick.. It's a good idea if you ever need it for an emergency to stay warm...

[@LadyBugout]

Now that is a good idea🤔 I’ll have to try that!!!

[@Scarywoody]

I use HEET (automotive) for fuel for my Trangia stove. Way cheaper and burns clean.

[@LadyBugout]

Interesting. I’ll have to check it out!

[@dallaspowwi6682]

Good ideas! Be safe. Watch carbon dioxide indoor small spaces.

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks, will do!

[@drthomason7043]

I think it is a terracotta pot which is different to ceramic Heat the water and fill a hot water bottle. Put under your blankets to retain the heat

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, did I say ceramic??? It is terracotta 🤗

[@martykong3592]

:) Go Dee! Great idea and share! I like that you can use it inside your Van safely, and maybe instead of a clay pot, a used can or steel mug? Stay warm and safe and all the BEST! Cheers :)

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you, Marty!🤗

[@margaretquinn5335]

Very useful information. Thanks. Love that it also heats up liquids. Watched a youtuber with a tiny gas oven. She makes a few scones in her van if the weather is very cold. Keeps the van toasty for a good while after.

[@LadyBugout]

That’s a cool idea. 🤗

[@carolinefreeebyrdacw13ly]

Hi there. I came across the "Vesta Self-powered Indoor Space Heater & Stove by Insta-Fire " it's only $99 @ their website. I like the fact you can use for safe heat and cooking and it uses the "safe heat chaffing canister which you can get at Sam's Club or sporting stores but need to make sure and get the "safe heat" & of course always have an operable CO2/smoke detector & fire extinguisher. . Just though I'd share.

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for the info! I’ll look for it.

[@RedEyeification]

I know a way to warm up very cheap but you'll need less clothes.

[@stewartrogers494]

have you check in to a penny stove that use isopropyl alcohol usp, 70% .....Walmart 1 quart $1.69 ...... 1 ounce burns 17 min....... great cost effective ...... made from 2 used pop cans ...... gives off 10,000 btus ........like your channel challenges cheers .........we the north .....S

[@LadyBugout]

Good to know. Thank you for the tip.

[@natalieservello4101]

How long does one of those canisters burn? Never mind, 2.5 hours I looked at the link you provided. I know beeswax burns for a really long time and I have seen the 3 wick candles, wondering if I could find one to fit in that? I found one on amazon 2.5" tall and 4.25" diameter that claims to burn for 18 hours. I know 3 wicks would produce more heat than one wick. Being wax if it is too big I could shave some off the diameter. This is really interesting to me, for some reason I am so fearful of propane used in interiors. Worth thinking about... To burn the alcohol they recommend good ventilation, for a beeswax candle ventilation is probably not required. But if I could heat up water with a beeswax candle with no electricity required, it might be worth the investment for me to find out. Thanks for sharing this information!

[@LadyBugout]

I would like to try beeswax candles too. Maybe I can do a comparison and see if it works just as well!!!

[@natalieservello4101]

@@LadyBugout That would be awesome since you have all the other parts already, thanks!

[@mmqqq8246]

Questions Any concerns about what the ethanol gel burns off into the air?? Any CO concerns? Smoke or chem smells? Do you have a fire blanket cuz if that gel spills the fire goes with it.... How much airflow do you need when burning it? And where did you get the noggle?? And where is the link to buy this

[@LadyBugout]

I address some of that in the video. It is eco friendly. No CO concerns. It smells initially a bit like rubbing alcohol, but then nothing. I have a fire extinguisher. I don’t know airflow needs, but I always keep a window vented open. The noggle and the link for the stove are from Amazon, link in the description.

[@OverlandOne]

That's a nice little stove. I believe you said you cracked a window which is good to let in oxygen as anything burning in a small space like a van will eventually use up all the oxygen which is not a good thing to have happen. I have a small titanium alcohol stove which does not burn as long as your gelled alcohol does. I keep a fire extinguisher handy because an open flame inside is always a potential hazard especially with curtains and things hanging about. I enjoyed your video so, thank you. Safe travels.

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you. Yes. I have an extinguisher right by the door.

[@alexanderweaver7066]

I love the wood stand and metal insert...reminds me of my backpacking collapsible stove for burning alcohol (91%) for cooking, actually boiling water for my freeze-dried meals. Or just to take the chill out of the tent air upon rising in the morning. I have been using Crisco lard to make candle heaters for my van instead of using Mr. Heater Buddy on those not-so-cold mornings. It's a hack I learned from a Bob Wells video. It works but I would rather use my alcohol or Sterno stoves for a little heat source. 🤔 I love your "tube" idea. I will try it in my van. My 6 liter V-8 heats up quickly within minutes and I'll let it run for two to three minutes and it actually gets too warm in the van...but the interior stays warm for more than half an hour. Keep giving us great ideas, Dee!

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you Alexander! Yes, I’ve heard that Crisco hack from Bob Wells also. The noggle is awesome because I can direct the airflow from the vent (whether hot or cold) directly to the back! It’s great for smaller vehicles I think☺️

[@bikerider76058]

I would think if you put a stone or rock in a pan and let it get hot, it would give off heat for a little longer. Some of the survival videos have shown doing it. I think that I remember reading the Indians did it too

[@LadyBugout]

That’s an awesome idea. I’ll have to try it!

[@gavinsnana]

Love this! Thank you for all you share and I love your ethical approach.

[@LadyBugout]

Thank you! ☺️

[@valerief1231]

The fact you can warm your space and heat a meal or water at the same time with the same energy is a big advantage. I think I would wrap some River rocks in heavy duty foil, set them in a pot or pan on top to heat them, then drop those warm, wrapped stones in a couple of old socks to toss in the bottom of my sleeping bag. Have you seen the Candleier? It’s available on Amazon as well, and it uses candles in a safe, enclosed “lantern” type set up. That is on my wish list too. I’m going to order the alcohol burner you have, even though I live in a house, I have to prep for adverse weather here where my disabled brother and handicapped husband can be comfortable at home. (Our plan is to set up a tent in the living room if there’s a power outage, we can conserve heat inside the tent with the three of us and our 3 dogs. )

[@hermano4242]

Please don’t try the candelier. It’s an expensive nightmare. It eventually gets to the point that it dumps hot wax everywhere, the springs that move the candles up end up buried in wax and get damaged as you remove them, and gets super aggravating.

[@hermano4242]

There’s a video on here on how to convert the candelier to small liquor bottles (glass) full of paraffin based lantern oil and with a cotton wick. Worked a hell of a lot better than the candles.

[@LadyBugout]

Interesting. I have seen them, but had heard the same type of reviews that @Hermano is talking about so was leery to try them

[@hermano4242]

@@LadyBugout Hubba hubba🤪

[@711LOVE711]

Do these cans smell bad, like kerosene? Also, any reason why you couldn’t set a canister right on your camp stove?

[@gigmaresh8772]

Have you watched YT videos on sand heaters? Metal pail $20 (or a small decorative milk can with lid $17), 12 volt immersion heater $8, bag of play sand $5, 4" UBS fan $9 The immersion heater warms the sand. The fan stirs the heat. It lasts for many, many hours. The first one I made out of a 14" SPARK pit bellied stove. After heating up the end of that first day, the cat left to cool off till 2 in the morning. And that was in my 13' by 17' living room. It was in the teens at sundown. My widdle house was in the mid 60s, but only got down to the low 50s by 9pm. I have since built a larger one in my 30" Buck Warner and I heat that one with a 12 volt element for a water heater. The total electric bill for this Oct, Nov, Dec and Jan was $87. Altogether 😅 And when someone has spotted those pot bellied stoves they always are amazed they are really hot to the touch. And are great for keeping my coffee cup warm.

[@LadyBugout]

I have not. That’s good to know. Thanks for the tip.🤗

[@melodyforbes5361]

Hi Dee. Happy New Year. Thanks for another interesting video. Still to cold for me.🥶😊 Looking forward to your next video. Safe travels and stay warm. ❤️🚐☕

[@LadyBugout]

Happy new year, Melody!

[@terrapintravels3829]

This is a great idea, I'm going to try it for my van, thank you!

[@LadyBugout]

Have fun! 💃🏻

[@robertberry3394]

Another option: Where’s wiseman- teardrop camper heater setup-my heat & bluetti. KZbin vid.

[@LadyBugout]

Great suggestion!

[@gigmaresh8772]

I know some people hate spam. BUT If you like spam, the lids from Hills Bros Cappuccino are a perfect fit for a spam can . . . TahDah !

[@LadyBugout]

Sounds like you have some good hacks!

[@Unknown--user610]

First of all, you're awesome! Second, there is a channel that you may or may not be familiar with, it's static campervan, and he has a Ram Promaster city which is the same cubic footage as a connect. So he has an olympian wave 3 heater on a t.v. swivel, which requires no electricity, so for the price and space of a propane tank and the Wave 3, it could be a very warm and cozy option for you. It's what I'm going to do in the future but make a build similar to yours. Long winded, sorry 😆

[@LadyBugout]

I'll check it out! Thanks for the suggestion.☺️

[@RVingwithG]

You can get those fuel can at the $ store way less than Walmart 😊

[@LadyBugout]

That is good to know! Thanks☺️

[@susanneguzman5339]

Maybe you speaking is actually creating warmth too? Wow 😯 really surprised you have absolutely NO INSULATION? If you did put insulation you might be able to use only the little fire. I never like open flames in small spaces - not worth the risk! Accidents do happen!

[@LadyBugout]

A lot of hot air😂

[@jacktyler7599]

When living aboard and cruising our small 24' sailboat, we would place a ceramic flower pot over the stove burner. Tiny investment, large thermal mass for the footprint, and in use it was similar to running the van's engine: Let the stove heat up the flower pot, then off goes the burner and the thermal mass continues to provide heat for a while. You could do the same here.

[@LadyBugout]

Sounds like an awesome idea! Thank you😊

[@ThatGuy-mu2rr]

I am going to use double the typical amount of insulation in my build out. Also, 3 different sources of heat and 2 different sources of AC. And 12 KW of energy storage. Charged by solar and a secondary alternator.

[@LadyBugout]

Sounds like a good plan!

[@LadybugsTravels]

I was trying to see when that big van event in Quartzite I believe it’s called RBR?? anyway I couldn’t find any dates would you know? Thanks

[@LadyBugout]

It is called the WRTR (women’s runner tramp rendezvous) or the regular RTR (rubber tramp rendezvous). You can find out more here- homesonwheelsalliance.org/2024rtrs/

[@gigmaresh8772]

My house is tiny. My boler is micro. But in both I have removed the handles on most all my skillets (except the one egg ones) and my pots. Now I use a pot gripper I got online from W*M for $6. Then I took those handles back to the thrift store and redonated 😅

[@LadyBugout]

Nice! 😊

[@robertberry3394]

I promise last one. 5 watt heat pad. Casey 250- change my mind about Chinese diesel heaters. Info about heat pad starts at 14 min. Small power station cram run it all night.

[@LadyBugout]

Thanks for all the helpful suggestions! ☺️

[@shannonswyatt]

If you don't have one, get a CO/CO2 detector/alarm. That is a small space and burning anything will eat oxygen.

[@LadyBugout]

I have one! One of the first thing I bought ☺️

[@patriciamoranatheras7934]

This is obviously so popular, it’s is now currently unavailable on the Amazon link. So glad it warms the van for you

[@LadyBugout]

Oh dear! I’m sure it’ll become available again😝

[@FirstLast-ml7yf]

Good choice of ethanol, not (methanol (a.ka. sterno)). Not as toxic. Bit concerned over tipovers. Any vapours given off? I was wondering about harnessing an out-of-van propane firepit to heat a large vessel of water in a stainless steel container, to bring into the van as a passive re-release-of-heat over an evening type of concept.

[@LadyBugout]

That sounds like an interesting idea…I wonder how mobile it would be?🧐

[@lori-annefay4138]

Put a tiny cast iron pan on it, some toast with butter...put a tny cast Iron pot on it with some soup. Put a stainless steel kettle and make some hot tea etc. Those things retain heat and radiate it. If you have two securely placed you could put a cast iron skittle, and make pancakes. Ah now you got it. 14:16. You can replace the gel with crisco/and homemade wicks. Works the same. Terracotta pot heaters very functional. I would try out American made products only!

[@LadyBugout]

Great ideas!!! Love it 🙌🏼💪🏼💃🏻

[@sonny1597]

Years ago I had a heater that used liquid parrafin .. it got knocked over and flames were everywhere! Luckily I had a big blanket and snuffed it out. No more open flames. Check out some of the catalytic heaters on Amazon .. propane fired. I have two of them to heat my rigs. 🤠

[@LadyBugout]

Good tip.

[@gregburgin7098]

Really the best thing, and I think it’s very worth it, is a gasoline heater that uses outside air for combustion and exhaust. You can tap into your fuel line. I use a Webasto and it keeps it from being miserable in these single digit temps we’re having. It doesn’t use much fuel or electricity either.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, I hear those are wonderful!

[@TinyHomeCookingwithSherlei]

Did you notice a odor using the little fire pit inside? I use a Vesta with safe heat six hours also get heat cook and flame ambience

[@LadyBugout]

It doesn’t have a strong odor at all. Initially it may smell a bit like running alcohol…that’s all.

[@fasteddie51]

I think it is important to mention that a flame uses up the oxygen in a confined area very rapidly. Many years ago I had a tiny motor home made by SunRader on a Toyota. I was traveling in snow country and my heater quit in the middle of the night. I knew the danger but decided to run my 3 burner stove and sit up in bed to make sure I didn’t fall asleep. In a very short time I realized I was on the verge of passing out. I managed to get to the door and fall into the snow. I’ve heard many stories about the dangers of running a one burner camp stove in tent but did not realize how quickly a flame consumes oxygen.

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, I least have my front window cracked open a bit. Good advice☺️

[@sarahloy830]

The heat output of a tea candles is not very many BTUs compared to sterno. Candles with a bigger flame would be more effective then a tea candle. But, all candles are going to burn dirtier then alcohol. I think you have found a great, and pretty, solution!

[@LadyBugout]

Yes, I heard that too. Although someone mentioned beeswax candles burn cleaner and last longer-I may have to do a comparison😜