Mini Vanlife 2002 Dodge Caravan Budget Conversion Tour DIY Simple, Cheap Setup

I started the van life one week ago. I went from tent life to van life. Here is the official walk through video of my Dodge Caravan Sport 2002 "finished" (so far).
If you'd like to support my channel here is a link to my paypal and venmo. Thank you.
paypal.me/fern...
venmo: ferniiethegreat

[@leticiahernandez4425]

Just got my use van also n starting my process to convert it.. But im building my bed n let me tell u NOBODY wants to help me not d kids not my coworkers not my friends NOBODY but thats ok im going to get it done....having so many eyes n smirks thrown at me n its so sad....im looking at people n family in a whole different way....but im going to succeed n triumph....i can do this👊

[@caneycreekgypsy1871]

Yes, you CAN do this!! Full speed ahead!👍🏻🙏🏻🤗

[@cynthiacrawford1573]

You will do just fine!Securing boards tight before you cut them,it helps with straight cuts.

[@SuzyQ2022]

leticia hernandez, Don't let ANYONE discourage you!! If living in your van is necessary and a way for you to save money, then you do what you feel is BEST for YOU! You can do simple builds like Fernando did with out their help!!! Or you can just get a bunch of inexpensive plastic storage boxes from Walmart if you don't have the skills to build shelves like Fernando did. You can also probably find inexpensive storage stuff or even FREE stuff to use from craigslist. Look at several more van builds if you have time to get more ideas. Just keep your chin up and smile and keep on going with your build and you will be successful!! Good luck and God Bless!

[@adventurebythemile]

I know the feeling!

[@BaBu-bt3ir]

Take your time. You can do it. Don't give up . Think positive.

[@jules6499]

I have obsessed over van life for 2 years and it has become my retirement plan in a few short years. I have watched hundreds of van videos and your space is one of the best for a minivan ever. It is so organized it can hold a lot! It doesn't feel cramped and is so homey. This old lady subscribed!

[@carolynmerritt7100]

Same here Jules. That's my plan as well. Like his setup, simple and easy, the way life should be.

[@juliecastagnaro305]

Also, check out MiniVan Lee.

[@jules6499]

@@juliecastagnaro305 I do follow her. Found her through another van lifer. She is SO happy in her van

[@gov683]

Ha, planning on doing same when I retire!

[@caridadbarrie4203]

I live part time in my minivan and my set up is very spacious. I have tremendous amount of storage and I cook inside. My bed system is ready to be slept on all the time. No making beds, no pulling cushions, no step outside to make it. I can access every single one of my storage units without having to have to move anything barr my toilet bucket because I like to hide it. However I have it out in its place through the night for immediate use. My set up is neat, pretty and practical. Easy access to every day items is must in van life. A nice pretty set up is a bonus. My system allows me to be stealth and the only built element was the sink. (Had to use jigsaw to cut circular hole) I have running water without plumbing thanx to an amazing device called Automatic water dispenser. I havent made a video but if you would like to see my set up to give you ideas you can contact me on Facebook... search Carrie Bayno. Cheers 🙂

[@monicaten1]

Best minivan set up I’ve ever seen

[@empress.l.e.tra5904]

Yes very impressive I was amazed

[@michaelsylvain4495]

Amazing 🤩 definitely one of the best! So simple yet sooo functional! I’m actually going to do this set up ⬆️ because I’ve been working on mine for a while and haven’t figured it out and this is the solution I’ve been looking for. Thank you ☺️ much love and stay safe!

[@jonasswint1]

You should check out Forresty forests set up then...

[@karoma5805]

Yeah I agree

[@nyccidarlin3655]

Quite organized!

[@marilynthomas643]

This is one of the best minivan conversions that I’ve seen. Most of them are done where there is no space between anything.

[@moniquebexplorer8237]

I'm really impressed. Even I, a 69 year old woman with no carpentry skills, could do this. I just might use most of your ideas. TFS

[@saffloweroyl3663]

Same here, we live near fire country and there's safety in being able to grab the pets and go.

[@whittkatt]

Looks great! Get a small container of kitty litter to pour into your “trash” container, in case you need to use it for that second purpose! Soaks up liquid and scent, and makes disposal easy.

[@mrsducky3428]

And the litter can be used in an emergency for traction under the tires!

[@kimwise5528]

Don’t mix #1 and #2. Pee into one container and poop into another. Otherwise the smell will knock you out and who wants that?

[@marysevonburns593]

I get saw dust free from the lumberyard

[@whittkatt]

@@marysevonburns593 I have tried sawdust. It stays wet, doesn’t clump up and encapsulate it, and kill any scent like a good kitty litter does. With the Slide kitty litter from Arm & Hammer, the litter and the container stays clean and dry, pretty much. No wet, sticky mess to clean, if the bag tears, but, sure, it will work in a pinch, and you can’t beat the price!

[@marianfrances4959]

Get unscented!

[@joellemeyer6308]

Great build. To wash your dishes and cut down on water use 2 spray bottles 1 vinegar and water next just water.

[@janfancher6619]

What was the ratio be on vinegar to water? I think it's an excellent idea I live in a studio apartment and I've really embraced minimalism...

[@ifkq]

@@janfancher6619 about 50/50 white vinegar to water, but I usually go a bit more on the vinegar. It cleans ANYTHING! And is safe no matter how much you use it.

[@triciaobrien8220]

@@ifkq Do you use white wine vinegar in the small glass bottles or the white vinegar that comes in 2 quart jugs and is sometimes labeled "cleaning vinegar"? I've used vinegar for cleaning floors but wasn't sure if the "cleaning vinegar " would be safe for dishes I'd be eating from

[@ifkq]

@@triciaobrien8220 Actually I would use soap for washing dishes. Vinegar doesn't do grease/fat but can be good to add to soapy water. Cleaning vinegar should be fine as long as you dilute it 50/50 for anything else.

[@deborahclaxton9544]

@@triciaobrien8220 white distilled vinegar, water, and a couple drops of dawn

[@oktophx]

That's a great set up! You got a lot of stuff in that small space and it's still organized! I'm impressed!

[@Mhel2023]

Subscribed due to level 10 neatness and organization, very satisfying to watch

[@DearestDawn]

This is an excellent build! You could start a business converting vans. Spectacular!! Very impressive!!

[@Purpleroses]

Exactly, especially for people Who doesn't have much money To Start. Let them Buy Material But Be Sure To Get Your MONEY

[@cnicometi]

I really like this lay out! Tons of storage, but it still has an open feel. Great job!

[@cintiapollock2486]

cool bed idea : ) omg its bigger in there then I would have thought nice little home on wheels ~*~

[@s.z.6200]

Its so organized and multifunctional for such a small space. Great job.

[@jeanwest1058]

So glad I found you! This is what I envision for me when I go nomad. Love what you did with your limited space. Also, I enjoyed you as you....I can’t stand all the “fancy’ videos with the annoying music. Looking forward to more of you. Yay! Well done you!

[@fipl1205]

Yes, you can tell who truly does vanlife and who does it because they want to be part of a trend.

[@la.boricua800]

Great for bucket use is ( scented cat litter) absorbes water n o smell,works perfect,,give it a try👍

[@darrellfort1668]

thats what i do, the scented cat litter with baking soda and peat moss means absolutley no smell

[@TraceyMush]

l was thinking of using litter as well. BUT always go with unscented! Perfumed products mixed with nasty smells always smell worse. The unscented will be much more neutral. (Cat friends for all of my life) :~))

[@TraceyMush]

@Vanning with Aida Boricua , are you talking about using litter for peeing over? How do you store that in the van and how do you dispose of it?

[@HOPE.TheresNoPlaceLikeHomeClub]

@@TraceyMush In my Class B I can't have water onboard in the winter so I line the toilet bowl with a plastic bag used for bedside commodes. I fill it with kitty liter and then double bag it and dispose of it at the park.

[@betsosgeorgetym]

i really like your set up, simple but organize. and everything is accesible.

[@point1392]

I've watched Tons of these kind of videos & I must say this is one of the Best set ups I've seen‼️👍😊

[@randomsthingsandstuff9285]

I love how neat and organized your van is. And I love all your cute containers. It looks so homey and comfortable.

[@dfros1957]

I'm looking at a 2014 Dodge Grand Caravan to use for trips. I like your build and will probably copy your's. Thank you for sharing.😊

[@fipl1205]

No problem. The only suggestion i have is closing the back portion completely. I left an opening to exit or enter through the back but I never use it. By closing the back completely you will get more storage area in that back section. I will try to close it, down the road.

[@marilynbio.mincer6520]

Fernando Perez - This is a great build. 👍🏼 Good Job!!!

[@kichapi]

It's super neat! It's a good move that you opted for baskets and organizers rather than adding wood drawers. It made the space roomier. And love that you can do a quick get away in case of emergency even if it's in "bed mode". Very practical. And I agree, don't waste time working on excessive interiors and spend it on adventuring.

[@ajt0319]

Nicely done, thanks for sharing and safe travels to you.

[@jannezack]

I think you did a fine job for how you will be using the van! You seem to have all your clothes organized well (nicely folded too)! Living in a van is always a process and you have started well!

[@sunflowerlady1810]

Very nice, neat, clean and roomy.

[@victoriasanchez1960]

One of the best applications of space I have ever seen. love the corner sink!

[@bliss149]

Beautiful. So organized!

[@johnellebaker3725]

Very organized, lots of stuff but essential.

[@adventurousspirit6628]

Your build was very well thought out and very neat. Wishing you well during your travels. Stay safe!

[@vaskylark]

Looking good, good luck on your travels. Safe driving and safe trip.

[@commenceenavoirmarre]

Wow, really great ...exactly the kind of setting I wish.

[@CC-vw1cs]

really enjoyed this - v. creative use of space ...like that bright orange dual purpose seat !

[@marycorbett1881]

You have made a great home for yourself,so clean and comfortable,very clever.I hope you have many safe journeys Fernando.Love from England😀🌞xx

[@sarahk.g.7861]

this is incredible!!! i’m about to buy my van (2006 honda odyssey) and i’ve been trying to figure out the ideal layout. this is literally everything i would want. my college doesn’t have dorm housing but i can’t afford private student apartments in the area, so this is my plan since i’m a student employee on campus. thank you so much for sharing!

[@awesomegrace222]

Awww it's really nice. Looks so cozy. Everything you could ever need. Great job and may you be greatly blessed in it.

[@crewzillakelly3655]

Very creative good for you! You did a great presentation especially for people that would like this life style on a budget.

[@OverlandOne]

Very nice build! You utilized all the space inside the van very efficiently. Nice job. Thanks for sharing it with us.

[@angelinar.612]

Thank you, thanks for explaining shelves. I've been debating in my head too about the positives of just using shelves. I saw another utuber put magnets on the inside bottom and back of baskets and magnets on back and bottom of shelves way tucked back❤

[@offairhead]

Holy smokes dude!!! What a super duper great job you have done!!!! I've watched every vanlife vid i can find for years now and yours is one of the best I've seen.

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

Really nice looking, simple and ergonomic!!

[@paigeyap4082]

This is one of the best mini van built I have ever seen! It's so functional & roomy. You did a great job! Happy travels!

[@colinkam7868]

A simplistic n functional built to your needs... Comfy n adequate. Great job n thank u for sharing it with us. Greetings from Singapore. 😀

[@taralh12]

This is the one of the most organized minivans I’ve ever seen good job

[@VANESSASDAILYLIFE]

*you did a great job I have a bigger van but you made use of every inch amazing*

[@The_VANtastic_Pack]

Hot glue some magnets on the back of the abalone shell and then it'll easily stick to the inside of the sink. I totally love that idea of using an abalone shell as a dish sponge drainer.

[@freeshrugs63]

Good video. I like your low key way. I also appreciate seeing setups from people who are keeping it simple. I don't have much money so I'm always looking for fresh ideas. Thanks!

[@evequinterosvargas3296]

Wow! Your so detailed and organized. You can make a living doing this for others... Enjoy your journeys!

[@la.boricua800]

Great set up I've seen so far,I'm gonna take your version on my oddessy,ty for sharing,it is awesomely comfy n Yu have access to get in by going over to driver side n side door n the bk door,💯awesome,

[@CetMM]

I use the same type of light in my Grand Voyager, and they’re also exactly why I haven’t gotten rid of hooks and handles. I’ve put carabiners on the handles (and rear seatbelts for the time being), so that I can hook them in place and leave them there while driving.

[@atmoore74]

I just happened upon this video. I own a 2002 and 2007 Dodge Caravan and i'm so impressed with what you did. I never imagined one of my vans could look like this. Great job!

[@jhmstagg9104]

Looking good, it is efficient and you have a good layout for that size van. Thanks for sharing. Happy traveling

[@MsRazberry420]

I've seen a LOT of mobile life set up videos and this one is one of my favorite set ups! Well done.

[@Aprilforevergreen]

Nice practical yet roomy design.

[@MossCottageMarket]

This is the second time I am watching this video. I love your set-up here, especially the seating/bed conversion. Everything is so logistical and makes sense. When I get my van, I'm going to design it like this. Well done. Blessings, Helen

[@fipl1205]

I appreciate the positive feedback I did some upgrades. It's the newest video on my channel if you want to see what things i added.

[@bettebuchheit5776]

Excellent build and nice video!

[@72motherearth]

Looks really great. I love your organization. You can really see that this will work well. Respect!

[@Purpleroses]

That Seat Would Hold A Small Cooler. I Can't Believe You Did All That, Yet Still Have A Walkway

[@AnnieGill7]

What a great build! It’s simple and very effective. You are a very organized minimalist! This is hands down the best minivan build I have seen!!! Thanks for sharing. Best wishes!! 🙏🏼🇺🇸👍🏼🐾

[@goldieroyston3548]

You did a great job and have a Lotta storage love your van

[@beachypeacefulvibes8599]

This is a great build. You used your available space wisely. I loved those baskets. You rock

[@GPaulDiddy]

Great set up amigo, maximizes the space around the bed. Giving me inspiration for my 2006 Grand caravan Sxt

[@marysketch4772]

That's amazing, looks like a little apartment. Looks cozy and inviting. Excellent idea to have that orange bench, which is lower than the front chairs, opens up that area between it and the end of the bed, looks so comfortable. Then seeing the bed on left is not fully extended yet but functions as a great super comfortable looking couch/bed thing for day. You have some real planning skills. Miniature bedroom with a kitchen. Amazing!

[@fipl1205]

Thanks so much!

[@Morningdovecamp]

Really excellent build!! Thanks for sharing. Enjoy!👍🏻👍🏻

[@JennRazo]

This is probably one of the nicest minivan conversions I have seen. Very smart, clean, and neat.

[@fipl1205]

Thanks, really appreciate that!!!

[@marylousmullen4592]

Great build , congratulations

[@nickyannajones]

Looks great! I love the floorplan and you're so organized. Nice job!

[@dbentley2195]

Good job man. It works for YOU and thats what you want is for it to be comfy and work for you.❤👍

[@ColonelKlink100]

This is the best build I've ever seen, and I've watch hundreds of van-build videos! Very inspiring!

[@dorisarroyo904]

Excellent! I love this setup!

[@mercedesvillaruz9427]

Best van build I’ve ever seen. Totally impressed at how well you made it so practical and functional.

[@conniecee9476]

Ingenious bed extension. First time viewer. Love this video.

[@johnsimpson8198]

Good job man, you have everything you need!

[@MrBerekhhnd]

Dude! That's friggin awesome man. You did a great job. I have the same van and I will likely be coping you. Most excellent!

[@accordiontube]

So many thoughtful touches! A number of techniques that I have not seen. I like the sleeping bag storage. A rug cut in half. drying mat for dishes. Strap to partially close rear gate and the hooks and bungie combination. Well done, my friend. I got a lot of ideas from your setup and video. Thank you for sharing and good luck with your studies!!

[@SeattleFocusBlue]

Great tour of your van. You did great. Love the design.

[@kathyf1306]

I have a 2003 Dodge van yours makes more sense than any I have seen. This is always been my dream for the last few years if I can just get it all together. Thank you

[@fipl1205]

It took me two years of watching vanlife videos, before I finally decided to take the leap and get a van to start the process.

[@cuddlesanddaisy]

Love the build. I might leave a space to get from the front seats to the back.

[@phdyoutubedegree1939]

nice set up. I would have the board that makes your bed just slide out so you don't have to go through taking the mattress off.

[@debbielicona5030]

Very neat and clever, I like tidy places!

[@ilovenoodles7483]

Thank you for this. This looks very organized and real. You are well spoken. Keep it up. Also, thank you for using class and modern every day elegance. When you spoke about your trash can and the "other purpose." When I saw you talk about it and you opened it up, I actually turned my head, but I appreciate you letting us all know that you haven't used it for the second purpose. Your language and your vocabulary is on the par and very appropriate. We need so much more of that now a days. This is something I would feel comfortable showing my kids as well.

[@ilovenoodles7483]

I also love all of your containers. The ones @ 10:27 and the bamboo/straw like one are 🌟 They are the correct ones for so many purposes and not flimsy and cheap. Where did you get them?

[@ilovenoodles7483]

The container @ 11:00 is perfectly spaced there in that particular spot. You don't have to use it for food storage either. Those type of containers make great storage for anything really that could fit in there and not worry about anything falling out. Other than using it for food storage like cereal or dry pasta, etc. I can think of storing your school/office supplies in there as well as plastic grocery bags, or even important pieces of mail, or tools if you don't have a tool box, basically anything. You're a smart cookie and get into salvation.

[@ilovenoodles7483]

G-d bless you.

[@fipl1205]

I bought my containers at Ross. I usually shop at Ross, and TJMAXX for most things related to organization and clothing.

[@ilovenoodles7483]

@@fipl1205 Awesome! Thank you so much. All the best to you. Pray, give yourself to Jesus, obtain salvation according to Acts 2:38 and live out Jesus's purpose for you.❤️

[@lisabailon1010]

Great build and easy. Thanks for showing us.

[@marymcquaid7291]

So convenient and well organized! I'm impressed!

[@txLALA]

Really great setup. Love the bed/couch.

[@carmendarlinseattle]

Very practical & functional. Plus, you’ll be able to modify and change as you see fit. I liked the nighttime ending.

[@kelliethorne1200]

You did a great job in a short amount of time!

[@eileensimpson3725]

Very well thought out without harming or changing the van. Nice work and thank you for sharing.

[@weekendlovinggypsy1737]

You did a wonderful job, it looks awesome especially for a small van. This will not let me share to my Facebook page.

[@michellemladek118]

You did it!!! And you’re going to school!!!! I don’t know you but I’m very proud for you. God bless you.

[@MrEvodio65]

I like the simple set up, I have a 02 Town and Country that I want to convert.

[@amiralions2681]

You did a really good job making a minivan look spacious and organized, I love it!

[@cruzogarcia1096]

Cool I have a 05 I'm planning on doing something like this

[@normaevett]

Good job! And you put the bed on the passenger side. Smart! In case you have to sleep at the side of the road, you won't roll off!

[@lindasue8719]

Interesting, I haven’t seen a “floor plan“ quite like that! Also I really love that there is no console! I’ve been planning to get a Dodge Caravan for my build, but maybe because I’ve been looking at more modern ones they all seem to have a consoo… I really want to be able to walk into the back from the driver seat very easily.

[@MrBlaze256]

Kia Sedona is better

[@kevinvan9883]

Center consoles are only held in with a couple of screws most of the time. If you find a van you like. Just search for a video to remove the center console and you can see how to remove them.

[@lindasue8719]

@@kevinvan9883 Thanks for that tip!

[@lindasue8719]

@@MrBlaze256 Can you elaborate? I’ve been debating between a few different minivans, including the Sedona.

[@kevinvan9883]

@@lindasue8719 what year?

[@KB-lp7ik]

U did a great job with a small van, I’m impressed

[@mssunset42]

looks great - and neat

[@Jdhdbsbsjdnraqowirjfndksjdndj]

I’ve seen a lot of minivan builds, this is by far the best layout! What a great practical use of space!!!

[@kristi.kervin]

The bed would be a lot easier if you took the hinge off and just made it a slide out.

[@cynthiacrawford1573]

Sounds good

[@kimwise5528]

Exceptin that he wouldn’t have such a cool comfortable seat and foot room.

[@happydays9613]

Best build I have seen in a small space. Every nuck and cranny has a clever thought out space. Love it. You should be proud of yourself. I am in the UK and want to do the same for breaks all season. Very inspiring that the space can be utilised like this. You made a small space spaceous and clean. All you need now is a small E240 Jackery with compatible solar panels.

[@lifebythecafterstrokeCHRISTINE]

This build is Excellent

[@kimberlydavis5034]

I love how you did your van. I love the fact that you have a bench to seat down on.

[@welcometoreality3450]

these vans have bad transmissions, make sure you replace trans fluid in near future (i would use synthetic fluid)... but engines hold up very well.

[@welcometoreality3450]

@@jolietjohnny I believe the next body style starting in 2008

[@welcometoreality3450]

@@jolietjohnny P.S. ALL caravans from 84 to 2007 are shit. I have an 89 caravan, im on my 2nd trans rebuild in 140 K mies. Had 2003 113K mile Caravan that had a bad trans but drove ok while i owned it

[@JG-kv4oi]

@@jolietjohnny The trans in these vans aren't that bad, what's bad is the owners of them, they don't change out the trans fluid regularly. I have a 1999 with 250,000 miles and the original trans. I thrash on it, have a full camper build (its always loaded)and the trans is still working excellent. Change your fluid every 20-30k, just like you'd change oil in your engine. Clean fluid is the lifeblood. They do however crack the pinion pin in the differential, so if you get the tires spinning and hit dry pavement it'll shoot that pin out and grenade the diff housing portion of the trans. There's a keeper kit one can purchase and install to stop this.

[@sissiesook2385]

@@JG-kv4oi Thanks you guys, great information

[@sissiesook2385]

@@welcometoreality3450 Thanks you guys, great information.

[@brendanvaughn]

I just watched at least an hour of a bunch of different build and yours is my favorite! I’m thinking if I can make the bed a bit wider to fit two people and get a refrigerator in between the passenger and drivers seat I want to built it very similar to yours. Thank you for the great video !!

[@fipl1205]

I just subscribed to your channel. I want to see how your build turns out.