Leaving Florida, Generator Mods, Van Food, Fire Safety

The Journey in the van begins officially. Last day in Flordia.

[@PapayaJoy]

Jax is a rad cat. Every time he meows Harley, my cat, goes nuts. .. haha! They have the same meow! Jax is way more chill. Happy for you in your new rig. You seem happy and we are all cheering for you!

[@norasteel5353]

I'm so happy to see you traveling again, Erick. Jax looks happy and well adjusted, you seem happy and taking care of business! Happy trails!

[@kennethdrew6137]

the bin for the generator that has no bottom is just plain GENIUS. I would never have thought of that.ken

[@nomadicfanatic]

***** Craig Snowden gave me that idea. Worked great!

[@GypsyFree]

That cover on your generator is really clever! One would never guess what is inside :)

[@toyhaulen]

Great videos, great idea covering Generator up. Also make sure license plate has a clear view. Another thing I did on my class b was install clearance lights on back of storage rack for night driving, then just plug it into trailer light plug on vehicle. Really enjoy watching you update van.

[@stringbender57]

Things are coming together in your new home. Looks great!

[@pjnoslot]

It's good to see you enjoying life again. Can't wait to see what comes next.

[@fatbikefreak5962]

Pop, chips and chocolate. The holy trinity of van food. Covers all the bases. You will survive and thrive on it....

[@0HARE]

Truck stop showers are a great, widespread resource. Love those FanTastic Fans! We installed one in our Travel a Trailer bathroom, and will put another in the living room vent. Open a window or two, turn on the FanTastic Fan, and you basically have an RV Whole House Fan (Attic Fan). Excellent idea on the generator cover. I like that parking space you found there. It's like your own little private landscaped garden. Double open doors and Jax the Cat on leash is a great set-up. He seems really happy. Positive Vibrations!

[@jespernoren]

that cover for the generator is awesome, great job! Always looking forward to new videos!

[@thervers2140]

Thanks ERIC. My wife and I love watching you and JAX and thanks for all the info.

[@TheConnieS]

Safe travels, Eric & Jax! ~ Connie

[@dianecraig6055]

I'm so glad that you're all situated and doing well. I was worried after you sold Tilly.

[@donnarita6112]

Love to see your adventures!

[@keithwilson9869]

Thanks for the further update regarding fire equipment. Tilly keeps on giving, even when she is gone. I think an updated outro might be a good thing, that is when you get time. The time of Tilly is gone now, and I know it takes time to do these things. Things are constantly evolving these days, and its good to keep thing rolling, keeps people (including me) interested. Van is looking good! And Jax, even though he is a big cat, is still limber on his feet, meaning he isnt unhealthy, just overweight! My aunty had a cat bigger than that, and he was so big, he could barely walk! So Jax, who is a van dweller himself, and therefore has no big area to roam around in, is doing quite well! Thats it for now... Keep on truckin', you're doing well!

[@dreamingofbeingfree1217]

I really like your new start up vedio.New change from RV, to Van rv.Nice work.

[@Side-Quest-Workshop]

Don't limit yourself to sodium-rich, nutrient-lacking food just because you're in a van. Man, when I lived in my van, I was eating the healthiest I ever ate. Oatmeal with blueberries and raisins for breakfast, hot brewed tea, nuts and fruit for snacks, and for meals I'd have spicy lentils and rice or some kind of similar meal. All I had to cook with was a backpacking stove with esbit tabs for fuel and a cheap cooler. I currently live in an apartment with a full kitchen and I don't eat as well as I did last year in the van. There were occasions when I got take out food or hit the drive-thru, but that were never out of necessity. Another thing I learned from my first foray into van dwelling was NOT to rely on the "bin" system. It's a cheap way to get all of your junk out of sight, but man, did that get disorganized fast, and made me feel oddly claustrophobic. I realized that the stuff that ended up in the bins wasn't stuff I needed, so I got rid of it. I thought of it like this: I can either spend my time on the road re-organizing all my crap every day, or I can spend that time living. With my current van design, I think I'll steal that overhead storage idea. It's a nice way to hide the ceiling-wall junction and nab a little extra storage space at the same time. Anyway, have fun on the road.

[@whitetcw]

Eric, when you drive in the rain mist will probably go up inside the box with the generator in it. Van looks great.

[@mildredlane3717]

Love how u hid the generator.. real smart..I am always learning from your vlogs

[@nikkidollm]

Yay !!! Finally done with that whole ordeal ! lol I'm catching up on your adventures . Oh man have you had an adventure!

[@dthomascheatham]

Eric. Check out the BURTON stove at your big truck stops like Glying J,and TA. (It looks like a black lunch box) if you get the one that tskes the mini meatloaf pans(DONT BUY THEM at the truckstop)horribly expensive-you can get a bunch of disposable aluminum ones at WALMART. Plugs into cigarette lighter, easy cleanup. Theres even a cookbook especially for those.

[@dthomascheatham]

Thats good-probably cheaper there anyhow. In any case theyre grest little stoves. I upgraded and got the digital one

[@dthomascheatham]

littlepaw1969 I dont think youre supposed to leave it in the can and heat it up that way......why do they have the mini meatloaf pans then? Lol

[@waterwell09]

Daniel Cheatham When I work out in the woods, I cooked brats, hot dogs & other stuff wrapped in tin foil also cans of soup those little Vienna sausages etc. by putting them on the engine exhaust manifold of the truck or piece of equipment that I was running that day. you would be surprised how nice that works.

[@dthomascheatham]

Kickstart51 Yahoo yes ive done that as well. Even up on the dash when the defroster is on works well. Did you know a cookbook exists for what were talking about? Its called, MANIFOLD DESTINY. Probably online too

[@waterwell09]

Daniel Cheatham No I had no idea there was a cook book for that. it really is a good way to heat up you food. like I said I would work in the woods & have no other way, & it sure beat cold sandwiches everyday

[@terryskeans1221]

Hey Eric : I will give you one thing. You sure are a worker. Doing a great job.

[@daveclarkrocks]

great idea to cover the generator! Kudos Eric!

[@greatshebear]

Not going to mention the eating situation, enough good advice has been said already. We wish you a safe and enjoyable trip back home Eric. Can you give us a little about the shower situation, sure something went wrong seeing you are showering in truck stops. Remember to get shower shoes in Wal-Mart those truck stop showers are not always well cleaned. Charlie was a truck driver for over 25 years, one summer I went driving with him. In two words "NEVER AGAIN" LOL Stay safe and God bless. Charles and Janet : }

[@darrencornell1]

really enjoy ur vids eric, tks fella

[@rachelwilson3614]

I have to agree that leaving the gas can red is best, it is illegal to modify fuel containers. Having two fire extinguishers is a great idea, I have two in my class c. I used to carry two in my old bus, a 77 westy, good thing too. I was cruising down i 24 in Indiana and came around a curve to find a vanagon with an engine fire. I pulled over and my buddy and I grabbed our extinguishers and ran over to put them out. It was a bunch of kids and they were pouring bottles of water on the engine. Lucky for them it was an electrical fire, if the case was burning they would have badly injured themselves by pouring water onto a magnesium fire.

[@vtownpaddy517]

The screaming guitars music is great. I like the way this van was set up.--VTown Paddy Patrick

[@TheShootist]

"Taste of Asia" and Thai Kitchen" noodle bowls are the bomdiggity (about $2.50 but much much better). Get a cheap microwave as well. Ice chest filled with Ice and bacon and eggs. fry, boil, scramble the eggs, microwave the bacon.

[@Theskybluelake]

Great idea concealing the generator.

[@veralettalook8497]

You need a small microwave. I always had one to take to hotels. In fact the microwave is the only thing I use inside my RV for cooking, as we do all our cooking outside. I know your van is small but I would have to have a microwave, and small refrigerator or at least a cooler for keeping stuff cold. I love the box you have over your generator... You did a good job on covering it up.

[@ClassALiving]

Oh man so much catching up had to be done, no internet sucks omg... I can't believe tilly's gone but that new van you have is pretty damn awesome and what a deal i love it!!! :D

[@Gabriel.Leni100]

What about the solar water heater? It's gone? :(

[@whateversuckme]

Another cool video, as always! Free TV is always a good thing, and I love this new van of yours. Big Bertha FTW! Makes me want to do something with my Ranger pickup.

[@jimrockford937]

Hey James, Erics doing a video in the next few days on a Ranger conversion.

[@clifflounsberry5038]

really enjoy your videos ignore the miserable people

[@charlescain7962]

Like the new intro. Wise to cover the tag.

[@mjmorro7757]

Awesome generator cover!

[@nooloo3000]

You stay cool I love dropping in on your life

[@skpjoecoursegold366]

that's a real good spot for Jax. something i suggested to 'Traveling Troy', for more storage space, use the driver door as the entrance and exit, and then built storage unit along the side doors, access from inside and while outside.................i'm considering it in the Class C that i will be buying in October, depending on storage available.

[@sherthom5672]

Customizing the van has been interesting, but for Jax's sake, I hope you're focused on upgrading to a larger space as soon as possible. While it is great Jax is getting outdoors, his motion and ability to be active seems rather limited with a van. We want to make sure he stays healthy for a long time.

[@MrCatalina31768]

I'm with Sher. The van sux. Get you a popup!

[@GatoPerro0]

Andy Ballard He just switched to the VAN....so you both be wrongo in the congo bongo

[@VernHall111148]

Bon voyage on your new adventure! Be sure to give Jax a scritch for us!

[@daltonschannel8405]

Eric that fan is going to be your next best friend this summer.lol

[@SandDogs]

Awesome Vids been watching your Channel now for about 2/3 weeks.When you get back here to the Pacific Northwest you need to get back and use a real RV like you had to make your life easer and Jax to.....Be safe have fun......Bring on the Vids...

[@tracyjamestavares3255]

Please consider 3rd brakelight an some reflective tape on the rear tray

[@asphaltadventurer]

Wow, that generator cover is really creative!

[@mrmagoo9901]

I really like your new van dude...

[@imagimundi]

Nice stealth for your generator. I would really appreciate you showing how you start it while it's still in there...when you can. I have the same need with my Ryobi. Thank you....and enjoy your trek back!

[@catherinehatt1224]

Don't forget to uncover your plates when you leave. Liked the idea of the generator, sorry the shower idea didn't work out.

[@nomadicfanatic]

Catherine Hatt Yes indeed. :)

[@DaveBegotka]

Good job on the generator cover......

[@JonAlmada]

Eric, noted the shower pipe is gone. I have a great solution from amazon for solar showers.... it is a 5 gallon bag with a shower hose that comes down and provides a nice stream of water that is fairly hot. Check them out... might be a good fit for your situation.

[@starblazer64]

Eric, do you intend to eventually put some reflective tape on your rear bumper rack and boxes? If you drive at night it will help illuminate your dark van. You can get some at Wally World or any truck stop. I'd hate for someone to smack into you because they have failing eyesight. Jax is cute as can be! You say "Hungry" and he MEOWS LOUDLY! Smart kitty!

[@nomadicfanatic]

Starblazing Rebel Good idea. I bet I could find some of that tape at homedepot.

[@TheSirol36]

Eric those instance meals will kill you....

[@thenoworriesnomad]

Idrus Lee MSG...More Soluble Grub, its quick and easy food

[@thenoworriesnomad]

Lori...how will they kill you FFS, you may not like them but millions of people do plus he aint got a fully functional kitchen in that van has he...

[@benjamintmaltby7453]

Mark Wright Lori is correct - it is the sodium in these foods that is so bad for you. I should know - joined the zipper club last Feb quadruple bypass. Now I have a different point of view and filter on food.

[@thenoworriesnomad]

well i sometimes eat them and I'm still alive and kicking...

[@thenoworriesnomad]

Each to their own i suppose, i don't like a lot of things but it doesn't mean its wrong does it...

[@patriciaalexander9751]

You just gave me a good idea! Thx. I also want to hide my generator.

[@JunkPileOMatic]

Thanks for the app Eric. when I used to drive a commercial rig I had a little book that had all of the truck stop info in it .it was invaluable to me at the time. I should have known there was an app by now. I will try it out and maybe even review it on my channel sometime. Drive safe and have fun.

[@jaysuper8255]

Junk Pile O Matic In Ohio, the newer rest areas on the Ohio Turnpike have showers and washers & dryers. I believe just about all have been upgraded.

[@JunkPileOMatic]

Yes I vaguely remember that but never used them. For the most part I stay off of the Turn pike even if we are going to the lake. Those rest areas are more like shopping malls now. The one I was at probably about & years ago had a cinabon and burger king.

[@emmettwilent8847]

Love the Van!

[@BrianForrestal]

Cool video!

[@AmericanWomanRV]

Walmart has fresh vegetables and fruit. Add a salad to your noodles. Jax eats better than you? Lol!

[@AmericanWomanRV]

You could also get a can of chicken or tuna and mix it in the noodles for protein.

[@DavidisDawei]

Maxine Abarbara Good Thinking! I carry a blender and an inverter and plug into my battery, add water, fruit, veggies and protein powder and get an instant meal.

[@ubiqueconscient5548]

If I was vandwelling: I'd keep a well made (Weber, etc) hibachi grill on-hand (and a grilling basket for veggies. I LOVE grilled green beans & corn!) and grill out every chance I got. A hibachi is perfect for making a complete fire cooked meal for one person, or one person and a guest.

[@Ohiogirl419]

Ubique Conscient agreed! Best thing about outside cooking are the roasted veggies and MEAT!!!

[@plutobeliever]

Lynnette Workman there's a young people doing just that... they do their cooking outside on the small BBQ... great steaks and salads...

[@rebeccadouglas8450]

The generator camo is awesome

[@meettheomlets4569]

Yep. Just saw your Facebook saying you were in the rain. The stopped us from working on our trailer. Darn weather lol.

[@PackardBelltoll]

as long as u keep her oiled up. That engines sounds awsome . Looks a like batman van .

[@artofbrowneyedgirl]

great idea!

[@mrs.prepperment5824]

the false bottom tote is pretty sweet! good thinkin! :)

[@ocho441]

Great idea for the Gen

[@denaredford6701]

I agree super cool friendly cat . Jax the cat .

[@gklinger]

Don't waste space on the Nintendo 64 and all those games. Buy a $20 Logitech controller and download a free emulator. You can also play games from the original Nintendo, the Super Nintendo, the Genesis, Playstation and pretty much any other video game console or computer you can think of. It's a no-brainer.

[@ultimaetsolder]

True. Very good comments. Those emulators and roms are great.

[@AntiViGames]

not the wii D:

[@fatbikefreak5962]

Ashton Larrimore Don't play video games. They rot your mind. Read more books. Or just look at the pictures...

[@cmandrell]

the n64 roms take a lot of hd space

[@fatbikefreak5962]

Nerd alert....

[@dthomascheatham]

The advantage there is you can have your dinner on cooking while youre driving, cuz the top locks down. Kinda like a mini crock pot. More time for videos, or playing with Jax

[@steveoutdoorrec]

Did I miss a video about the solar water heater? I saw the first vid on putting it together and then one with modifications and now it's gone. Was there a problem with it? I about to start a school bus conversion and thought the concept had merit for me with my abundance of roof space

[@BabyMachine]

That toolbox is begging to be stolen. Tools are expensive, and easily sold. The van looks really good though. I want something very similar!

[@happyhighway106]

Hello, Mr. Jacobs; As you head west on I-10, check out the battleship USS Alabama. No where can you see so much steel and iron in one spot. Also, down the road in Texas is the battleship USS Texas, another ship of great history. I've been on both!

[@MeanSagitarius]

Your van looks awesome.What happen with your solar shower?You decide not to keep it?

[@montiraruba2831]

Eric, can you run the AC while you drive using the batteries/inverter/and solar panel?

[@nomadicfanatic]

MontiR Aruba Yes, but that AC will drain the battery in less than 4 hours. I won't really use the window AC unless I'm plugged in at a park or running my generator. Cab AC blows ice cold while driving and works just fine.

[@rollingblunders8967]

Looks good, one thing you said you were gonna paint your gas can black, do not do that, a few reasons you get stopped by the law you can be fined for it not being visible as a fuel can. second you paint it black it soaks up HEAT I have had smaller can that I got used that were painted to match a truck and the built up psi and split. Be safe!

[@jaysuper8255]

Rolling Blunders I agree....If you paint it black, one has to clearly have it labeled as "GAS". A gas station can refuse to fill it.

[@van_demonium]

i found the dehydrated meals for hiking and camping are great especially in a van if you can only boil water also if you put a tad bit less water then directed it turns out thicker makes for good burritos ramin can get mundane after a while i do eat it like crazy but i thought this could help you mix up your options a bit without having to prepare it any differently

[@Maxid1]

Before you took off, was that the low light setting for the camera? It seemed really bright outside. P.s. I wish you hadn't mentioned the tinting, now I see it. I didn't see it before. It's no different from the RV view, but now it's distracting that I know about it.

[@ratystast]

What happened to the solar shower? I'm waiting for an answer for two episodes now. Please, explain it. Nomadic Fanatic

[@PNW_JEEPER]

I sent him a message a couple episodes ago and told him to look us up when he gets back to Wa state.. no answer..

[@keithwilson9869]

ratystast I read somewhere that he is 'storing it at rvprepper waynes until he returns'. So he may return there, after a side trip or something that he takes, to collect it before he officially takes off back to Washington state. Or it may have been so obtrusive as to spoil the regular appearance of his stealth van, so he could have ditched it there (hence his comment in this vid regarding truck top showers being used so much). Oh, and he does read comments, just doesnt have time to reply to everyone, so if he has answered peoples questions somewhere along the lines, he may not feel the need to repeat himself, as he has done so in the past. Nothing against the person, just a time factor. I know, as it took him 2 videos to get around to replying. It wasnt in written form either, it was part of a couple of videos, which i actually preferred as it was something he could use in his video as a tip. Kind of felt like a more public reply to my question He does care, its just overwhelming sometimes getting around to everybody, with so many subscribers.

[@tiagofgarcia]

People are so effin egocentric that it is amazing... I wrote you Fanatic! i wrote you... Since I am the most important person on the universe, you should answer my question! Me, me, me, me, I, I, I, me, me, me, me..... Freaking annoying people!

[@missycat5783]

Durrttyy Seattle here!

[@ratystast]

Tiago Garcia i just hope that he will mention something about it, because so many people are asking about it. Just being curious.

[@rolandoperez8248]

I am thinking of adding a generator too. Still deciding on a setup like you or use a portable one under the van. My question is how are you dealing with the generator fumes? It seems that if the wind blows in the wrong direction it can kill you. Last month a couple die here in south Florida in their sleep while camper on their camper truck cause of this.

[@nomadicfanatic]

+Rolando Perez (OutdoorFanatic) Well, I never smelled any fumes coming in. Remember that an AC unit draws air from below the unit INSIDE while putting hot air outside. Maybe some air gets in, but mostly it's just putting indoor heat outside.

[@estuardoe8]

Eric...nice set up....one thought though I believe your license plate should be showing some where in the back. Look into it no need to get pulled over..

[@StudioDaVeed]

That is a cover for filming; but good point; remember to remove it before traveling!

[@MrAC1978]

You've got a nice living quarters in that Van. Have you thought about buying a 5x8 cargo trailer and building a full bathroom & storage ?

[@MericaAdventures]

Eric, you should put lights on the back of your little hauler in back of Van so no one rear ends it!

[@captainredneck0683]

Whats the mpg difference in the van verses the rv? I figure the van should get at least 10-12 mpg on the highway.

[@wdempsey100]

Dan Travels has lots of healthy ideas for meals

[@jaysuper8255]

wdempsey100 I'll 2nd that..I watched about 20 of his videos the last week. Now that guy is stealth...

[@strocat25]

nice Fat Tire amber ale sign eric, shit bub I'm drinking one now. happy dude hooked you up with that van, I'm just happy for ya in general man

[@nomadicfanatic]

strocat25 Nice!

[@NoProGoPronto]

I'm convinced Jax is a mini lion? LoL!

[@fishlanding]

What's in store for you in WA state? Look forward to your videos ...

[@TSunshineful]

I typed in Walmart Finder and it didn't come up. Anyone know the actual name for finding Walmarts on the road?

[@agems56]

In the U.S., are Halon fire extinguishers allowed? Here in Canada they are banned, because of the damage supposedly to the ozone layer. But they worked the best. Does yours leave a fine yellow dust behind, that is really hard to clean up!

[@nomadicfanatic]

Andrew Gems I have no idea. I only buy what they sell here so I know it's legal.

[@douglamp178]

Eric, what happened to the solar water heater?

[@MrBNARick]

Eric; next time you are in a Flying J or a Pilot, fill out a driver rewards card form and get your card. Swipe your card every time you get fuel and earn points for in store purchases AND FREE showers. I think you only need to buy 100 Gal of fuel for a freebie and they will remain active on your card for 10 days. Petro/TA and Loves also have the same type of programs. Make sure you get the DRIVER rewards card, NOT the consumer card.

[@azdannor7327]

Eric, what happened to your outdoor solar shower? u get rid of it? anyways, luv all your videos n good luck on your new adventures with Bertha!

[@keithwilson9869]

Azdan Nor I read somewhere that he is 'storing it at rvprepper waynes until he returns'. So he may return there, after a side trip or something that he takes, to collect it before he officially takes off back to Washington state. Or it may have been so obtrusive as to spoil the regular appearance of his stealth van, so he could have ditched it there (hence his comment in this vid regarding truck top showers being used so much).

[@DavidisDawei]

Hi There, What is the gas mileage difference between the old and new vehicle?

[@jynclr]

Hey Eric, I really admire you and am enjoying your videos. I just found your channel yesteray. As for food, consider Hormel Compleats microwave meals. I don't know if you have a microwave, but if you do, these microwaveable meals don't need refrigeration and are actually quite tasty. I used to keep some at my desk at work so I didn't have to put them in the company fridge and worry if someone was going to take my food.

[@melloman5517]

THE A TEAM van lol rite on man!

[@Trucker101]

I must have missed it, WHAT happened to the black pipe shower that you redid in the "U" shape??

[@hotmasked1]

You can do the shower in the van I have seen it before, you will just have to customize it kinda just like your built your closet with just enough room measure to your height. Next to the stove you can buy a steel bowl and drill a hole at the bottom like Delerious Donut has done. He pumped the water with a manual pump.

[@madhdd]

Eric, been watching couple wks now and looking for any and all advice. We just bought 2015 winbgo 24' and could use advice on our selection or better word, "opinion". Being newb's I am a bit nervous as to how it will all work. I've watched a lot of your videos and received great ideas. Maybe just a positive note is all it will take.

[@nomadicfanatic]

michael demers It's new! You're starting from 100%, so you gotta feel good about that! Keep up with preventitive maintenance and enjoy!

[@TheSoloAsylum]

I'm heading into Georgia and Tennessee on Saturday with the 5th wheel for a week, maybe I'll run into you unless you are far north by then.

[@DriveShaftDrew]

good stuff

[@lemoncrinckles]

I'm curious about the weight capacity of the van. The wood is fairly heavy and Eric's belongings are probably some hundreds of pounds. Hope the shocks and tie rods and all are in good condition. I want him to be able to enjoy the continuation of the journey and not be constantly troubled with mechanical problems. (:

[@Bigmike101202]

Cool,,thanks

[@vonniedasher8567]

You look great !!! Do you have a microwave or toaster oven ? I don't understand how much you can run with the battery. The truck stop app is a winner ! I have this book that weighs about 10 lbs called The Next Exit. I loan it out to family traveling south. But it would be nice to have that app. Jax is soooo special and you are a great dad, honey ! Be Safe !

[@nomadicfanatic]

Vonnie Dasher I might get a 12v microwave here soon. Or a smaller 110v.

[@nomaddaze]

I like the generator shroud thats good idea , maybe you can somehow with no bottom and the lid part way opened, use it as a rain cover and be able to operate the generator during the rain without it getting wet. And is it just me or is something off with your seatbelt? It looks like the shoulder strap part is mounted too high and not far enough out to the center and its rubbing on your neck? Maybe it's just the angle but that can't be comfortable.... They sell these pads that you can put on the seatbelts straps and those help a lot but it should go across your chest more and your neck less