Minivan Camper Awning | Adding a Danchel 6.5 ft x 6.5 ft Outdoor Awning to a Dodge Grand Caravan

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[@MyBasicJourney]

Trust me when I say, it's not going anywhere. Even if one of the zip ties break, there's multiple on each. I have about a hundred extra. The slot the bracket goes in to is too small that it literally CAN NOT fall out with the bolt on one side. It's not possible for it to "slide off" because of the cross bars. It's just not possible. You guys saying it's going to fall off do not know what you're talking about. Xoxo

[@rangerannie5636]

My apology Chantelle. I didn't mean to tell you your business. It was just a quick thought because I used zip ties to attach some solar lights and it surprised me that they literally broke and fell off after only a couple months. You are quite a competent and capable young woman and I in no way meant to offend you. 🤗

[@MyBasicJourney]

@@rangerannie5636 No worries at all. 💖

[@travelcomission4544]

months later... ⬇️🤫🤭 No video about it falling🤫

[@funzeevanzee]

@@travelcomission4544 hahaha 😆 😂

[@travelcomission4544]

@@funzeevanzee FACTS

[@niftytraveler]

You can probably double up that zip tie so that it has double the strength.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Each side has two on it. I have a bag with extras. It will be fine.

[@funzeevanzee]

Beautiful lady. Looks like a nice awning, but does appear to rub on door when the door was closing. Praying for you that it lasts. Love your smiles and cheerfulness. I still don't have an awning.

[@lorraineanderson149]

I use zip ties all the time. I have them in my tool box when I go on the road. Great for emergency fixes. Just add it to your checklist to inspect you zip ties when you leave your campsites and you are good to go! Save travels!

[@jasmin0930]

This is definitely going to be such a game changer for you. This along with the toilet will make your van life so much better than before and I think you won’t miss the fridge much 😢

[@lesliesshopofcuriositieswo2092]

Find some really good wire and replace zip ties. Looking good 👍 Thank You

[@crazgirl80]

You know you can pick up some flat sheets at goodwill and use them for sides on real sunny days off your awning . Just zip tie them on and cut them off when you are done or get some of those cheap clamps from dollar tree. You could also get three cheap tarps and use it in the rain . That way you would have a little shelter either for sitting or shower room if right circumstances. Best wishers on your new journey.

[@jerseyandhernomads]

Looks great, now ya need two cool tapestries to hang from the sides when it's windy and really sunny plus it adds more privacy and look cool. 😃

[@NYCHFAN]

Great idea! 👍👍

[@lifemyway200]

What someone else said about zipties in the sun is true. However, apparently you can buy UV safe zipties. Just found this out the other day:) Oh and LadyBugOut had a great solution if it's a bit windy: put weights in the top outer corners to weigh the poles down. Excited for you and Joey!!

[@margaretsweeney6468]

I would get some heavy duty zip ties and check them regularly. Good job getting it installed.

[@hoyo1465]

Definitely get the thicker zip ties

[@rangerannie5636]

Those zip ties don't last long when they're in the sun. They can get brittle and break within a couple of months. Just be aware you'll need to check those zip ties now and then to make sure they're still in one piece.

[@jerseyandhernomads]

Definitely, 8 had to add zip ties to my light bar and they only last a few months.

[@Tina-zz2lw]

Great point. Probably a good idea to find some type of metal option to replace the zip ties.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Yes, I have a whole bag of them.

[@pandachickenmama]

@@MyBasicJourney if you put the bolt in the other way around on the zip tie side you will have better success. Put the nut on the bottom and screw the bolt down from the top. Then get some locktite to seal the thread ends so they don't vibrate loose as easily.

[@MyBasicJourney]

@@pandachickenmama no, if I have the bolt on the other side and a zip tie breaks it WOULD be able to fall off. The bolt on the inside of the roof rack bars insures that if a zip tie breaks, the bars would stop it from going anywhere.

[@LadyBugout]

Yay! Looks awesome. Nice to not have to carry anything inside the van 🤗

[@kemi1486]

Wow Awning looks great! Maybe stainless steel zipties would give you a little more assurance? Excited for you and Joey to get back out there!

[@scamphound1892]

Zip ties, Velcro and duct tape. What more do you need in your toolbox! Be sure if there’s a chance of rain to put on side lower that’s the other. I didn’t know that when I first got my awning and a pole broke.

[@Nannygoat]

My daughter knocked the bumper off her minivan. We used zip ties to re-attach it. Lasted till it died 7 years later ( engjne died at 250k miles).

[@jonathanhansen3709]

I’ve had an 8 foot ARB awning on my 2012 Ford Transit Connect four the last 4 years. It makes a world of difference when I’m camping out in the desert here in California! You’ll need to add at least a couple of tie downs, and heavy duty stakes (4 is better), the wind will pick it up like a sail.

[@ajt0319]

Haha I read that as “Dance Hall” and naturally the first thing you did when the awning was up was bust a quick little move. So sweet.

[@danesba1]

Yeay!! You'll have that setup in minutes once you've done it couple more times!

[@jackieschneider2596]

The awning is going to be your best addition. Shade on hot days, can’t beat that!

[@carollyngillespie3860]

There are metal zip ties. Find those and use them, because the plastic ones truly don't last.

[@funzeevanzee]

Those plastic corner thingies on the box make great dividers for small shelf stuff.

[@nancycain4434]

You should be very comfortable on your journey south. Safe travels!

[@pepperwatson7784]

The sun will quickly get the zip ties and they will break so use a hose clamp it will last forever or even a couple of hose clamps on each bracket

[@maryk790]

WAY TO GO YOUNG LADY GREAT JOB I CAN HARDLY WAIT FOR BOTH YOU AND JOEY TO START YOUR TRAVELING DAYS AGAIN SAFE AND FUN TRAVELS

[@datagrl]

Thank you for the instructions. Very helpful. Bring extra zip ties so you can replace from time to time!

[@gfnin]

Hi Chantelle, love your new awning but you should add wire to where you placed the zip ties. better yet, take the brackets to a welder and have them weld the bolt to the top of the bracket (on the outside) - the inside bolt, do it like you did before but perhaps you can cut it to size to make it easier for you to get under the bracket. I hope you don't mind the unsolicited advice.

[@magdaperez8940]

I'm not an expert at zip ties or putting up awnings,but, if I were you I would check the zip ties every week or every time you park somewhere, have fun n can't wait to see your adventures with joey,take care n becareful

[@pamjames6873]

Put a few twist wires as well Chantel! I am a Jerry rigger myself! I just bought a 202 econoline to do my thing ! 65 yes old gonna probably have a lot of zip ties ! So excited

[@roxannepearson8313]

Right on..awesome!

[@JennyLeiviska]

Awesome upgrade. I’m thinking that there is more heavy duty zip ties you can get at an auto supply store to give it more strength 😊❤️

[@kathybest6950]

Your a very resourceful young woman and I'm very proud of you. You will really enjoy this awning.

[@Locd4life707]

Awesome! You can add a couple straps so it doesn't rub on the door when opening & closing your sliding door. Thanks for sharing! ❤ 👍

[@RuttanKyle]

hey, looks good. I would replace the plastic zap straps with metal ones. you should be able to get them at any home depot type store.

[@chuckforget2854]

Amazing install Chantelle, you have become quite resourceful and let your inner MaGiver shine through. Be well and let the adventure begin.

[@christinecanavan7333]

I bought a PVC pipe cut to length. A body shop drilled 10 tiny tiny holes and attached the PVC with wire. I held my tarp on with huge carpentry jaws. The outside of tarp was tied to tent poles etc. I would be able to roll it up when not in use using the 2 tent poles to stabilize as I rolled. Ta da!

[@bettybrigance6784]

Awesome...looks great, your such a smart young lady, I think I hear the road calling, wait, it's calling for me..😁..hope our paths cross..stay safe

[@thewayofthewitch]

Yay! That’s a great awning…I’ve seen a bunch of other vanlifers use it and they all seem to like it a lot - though almost all of them said to always stake it because wind will mess it up quick (which I’m sure you know because you are such a good researcher and of course you’re not going to stake it out in the driveway for this video 🤩). Now you’re ready to get back on the road! Have fun! 💃💃💃

[@lovinglife4962]

Hiiiiiiii Beautiful Hiiiiiiii Joey 💓🙋🏽‍♀️‼️It’s great to see you Darling and I’m so excited for you getting back out on the road 🤗🤪🚐let roll

[@suearcher8708]

WoooHooo! I am so excited for you and Joey to be on the road again. The install of the awning was very entertaining, almost as good as Lady Bugout and Bunny trying to put up the "spare room" on Bunny's van...and there were two of them!

[@NYCHFAN]

🤣🤣I remember that one!

[@janetburgess7664]

It looks great they should be cool out there

[@susanyates4233]

We were caravanners, and used an awning, after getting sick of erecting a complete awnings. We put wind breaks round the open sided awning, a great improvement.

[@nilasink3270]

Great! Love your "can do" attitude. Happy travels.

[@NYCHFAN]

So cool! I can picture you chillin' in your camp chair on your front "porch" while out on the road. ✌️❤️🍁🍂

[@LD-lddh]

You are so cute and innovative. I admire how resourceful you are and how fun your videos are to watch. Thanks for sharing your life with us. Looking forward to yours and Joey's adventures on the road again. 🤩

[@VanJolene]

I put an ARB awning on my van and I love it. If traveling a long distance be sure to check bolt tightness often as you travel. Mine got a little loose but the awning was still secure. Great job!!

[@coralieofjumpwithnofear]

Love the awning!!! I’m considering one for my van at some point. Apparently the tech for free-standing awnings has come some way recently, and there are some that don’t even need poles. Which blows my mind, frankly. LOL!

[@lisagardner9798]

Love all the new extra comforts you are adding. It should definitely make things better for you on the road! Can’t wait to see your new adventures!

[@charlottewilson4680]

I love that it has the case with it. Very nice one.

[@debrabenningfield2492]

I hope you take those tools with you just in case.

[@simonthehobo]

The zip ties are a clever solution, but I’m definitely with Ranger Annie; they’re also a temporary solution. You might consider getting some baling wire to replace them. (Of course, baling wire might rust out, so you could also consider engine coil wire, which is just copper wire with a thin plastic coating.) Other options would be to forego the top part of the brace entirely - the part that goes over the luggage bar - and just use marine adhesive to hold the bottom part of the bracket down. Good job, though!

[@Julian-do7bv]

You might try buying some metal zip ties they would probably last forever but the new awning is so exciting will make van life so much easier

[@bangbangcfp]

I had no idea that they had metal zip ties. Very cool

[@cuddlesanddaisy]

That will probably be such a blessing. Great job attaching it. I appreciate your showing how.

[@lezamcB116]

The awning looks great!!!! You did a great job!!!! I am looking forward to your travels.....be safe and take care..........kisses to Joey.......from Bubba & Max..........😘😘

[@lisamiller6848]

Omgosh I was worried you open knife was gonna cut your new awning lol....I was like no no no!

[@hauk3839]

I have 2 rhino racks. Guide lines can attach to wheels. Trust me that wind will take it with it them

[@MooniiplaitsCrochet]

Yeh the awning looks great. I love problem solving - it's so satisfying when it works 🙂 Look forward to seeing you on the road again 😀

[@cassieclark4384]

You’re gonna have your minivan all perfect setup you won’t want to finish the big van 😛. I’m sure it’ll be nice to get back on the road and come back later ready to tackle it

[@shawneeb3771]

Congratulations on the awning, I am sure it will make it cooler out there.

[@AriesDragon]

Nice. Now some little lights around it and partay🥳

[@bonniepettersen4063]

Great job, Chantelle! 👍 You will be soooo comfortable, this trip🚐 Can’t wait for your travel videos❣️ You are becoming really handy, too.

[@heatherchannel7157]

good for you! all those bolts in that bag would have freaked me out

[@AbiyahBina]

Yes. I know that’s gonna be a game changer for you. I’ve been wanting one all summer but I don’t have a roof rack and don’t know how to install one with that.

[@MyBasicJourney]

Do you have bars at all? Or nothing up there? Will I see you in the desert again?😊

[@robinmaze2188]

I love to watch you do stuff. Figuring it out as you go. You are brave and determined

[@aniassantiago6445]

Love it! It looks great Chantal and will really increase your "living" space. I'd love to add one to my Sienna I live in. Happy travels! 🥰

[@elizabethapfelbaum1240]

You are so funny, you go woman! You have my empathy! Can’t wait to see you back on the road. God bless!

[@AJDRAGON01]

Hi, if the zip ties don't hold, then try removing the front and rear roof rack nuts. Also us some type of vinyl protection spray or something similar to help keep the vinyl bag from hardening up.

[@Texasishot105]

WooHooo!!! Time to hit the road!!! 🎉🎉🎉❤🐾❤🐾

[@gracecallowayable]

Oh!!! I got this one too!!! I just haven’t attached it to my van yet!!! I think I’ll do that sometime this week… 👠🚌👠

[@DovieRuthAuthor]

Love the awning! What a game changer. ❤

[@limitedtime5471]

Lol the stuff I've zip tied on my van 🤣 these things are kinda magic

[@jeaners7]

Well done you. So excited to see you hit the road. Hugs to you both. Be safe.

[@rustyred459]

I bought a large square patio umbrella I use magnets to attach to van ….. and if a LITTLE windy I use tie ropes but usually just the magnets

[@FishMH]

Looks good, only the winds will tell... enjoy your new joy !

[@larriettausa]

I didn’t know a awning was available for mini vans😀 great I caught your video ! Now I’m going to have one installed on my van👍

[@papasmurf1904]

I really like how you find a way! ☺ 👏 You never give up! 😂

[@kiwilandernz2799]

Exciting

[@robinmacdonald7249]

I am so excited for you. I love your little curse word comment. I love that you try things without any fear. You go girl! Let your adventures begin! YAY

[@FishMH]

If it gets windy, maybe tie guy lines from side, front to hold it taut? little front poles can't do it all in some of the winds you and Joey endured

[@robertdragoff6909]

It looks great So simple. Perfect for your minivan. Great setup. Now you can sit near the van’s slider with out getting fried by the sun or soaked by rain. You might want to see about new roof rails so you can use all the hardware to properly secure the awning to your mini. Looking forward to your next journey…

[@jhemnes1]

Good job. My only advice is to get metal zip ties😁

[@xstanadu]

Very excited for you and Rockstar Joey ⭐️✨⭐️your new adventures await you ✨✨✨✨

[@grannypeacock1218]

It’s a thing of beauty.

[@crysee821]

It is definitely going to make a big difference when you are in the desert this year! Good job! Looking forward to your journey!

[@bcole3442]

The desert winds will rip that apart. Ask people with big heavy motorhome awnings.Will bend the heavy supports,that doesn't stand a chance.

[@wyrdadventures]

Lovely! I have a silver tarp, magnets, poles and stuff to make tie outs. I don't have rails on top or I would have an awning like yours.

[@lorib5341]

Yay for the new awning! You did a great job installing and now to get yourself out there on the road!! safe travels and I look forward to more videos!

[@valleriejoy]

If you’re concerned about the plastic zip ties, Amazon has these zip ties (50pcs Metal Cable Zip Ties, 304 Stainless Steel Cable Ties, Exhaust Wrap Multi-Purpose Locking Cable Metal Zip Ties(11.8 Inches)).

[@Weezieweeks]

Excited to see your awning in action when you are on the road!

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I have to get the 4 by 6 one. Its been in my cart save for later items. I bought the vilmoon awning shade for my hatch. But now that I've decided to go to Quartzsite for all of Jan, I need to go ahead and get one of these as well.. this particular awning will be a game changer for you.

[@sandracarpenter144]

Looks easy enough for one person. Gonna have to put that on my want list. Thank you for sharing. 😊✌🏼😎👍🏼

[@patriciapuleski900]

It looks awesome. Seems like you are going to enjoy your future adventures just a little bit more. ❤

[@karenmays8889]

Woohoo, you did it. Congratulations 🎊 can't wait to follow your travels. Take care

[@lo8337]

Great job on the awning and your van is looking comfy.

[@shannacraft4099]

🌸 I'm excited for you!

[@melindamarie6139]

Great job girl!! I love it!! Wish I had something on my van to attach one! Love it, game changer!!

[@eleanoreleichtenberg9290]

Looks great! Looking forward to all your winter van camp videos! Good luck on the road!

[@freedomexplorer360]

Can't wait to get on the road with ya, again!!! Proud of ya!!

[@samanthadodd8112]

The awning looks awesome. Looking forward to seeing ur new adventures.

[@Raven-Fish]

I LOVE YOUR NEW AWNING!!!! WAY TO GO!!! 🤩🤩🤩