COMPACT & HIGHLY FUNCTIONAL MWB Crafter Self-Build ⚒️🚐 Built for FULL-TIME VANLIFE

🚀 FREE Training - Zero-Cost Vanlife & More: bit.ly/3UO7hUT
📖 The Van Conversion Guide Book: www.thevanconv...
🎓 The DIYhero Course: diyhero.me/
FOLLOW DARREN:
Daren also has a KZbin channel; / @scoobiedee
Find him on Instagram too: ...
About this van:
Daren knew he wanted to convert a van, but was unsure about doing so himself as he didn't have much building experience, however after buying the guide book he decided how hard can it be?! And took the plunge. His self-build VW Crafter conversion has come out really well and fits his and Scoobie's needs perfectly. It has all the mod cons - 240v fridge, diesel heater etc - and has an impressive solar array that allows him to stay off-grid as long as he wants. He converted the van to travel and rock climb and is now on a mega trip around Europe fulfilling this dream.
Daren also has a KZbin channel; / @scoobiedee
I hope you enjoyed this tour, don't forget to help us out by liking and subscribing :)
Connect with Nate Murphy:
📸 Nate is on Instagram: bit.ly/2ZVaHri
#vanconversion #vanlife #vantour

[@NateMurphy]

Thanks for watching! 📖 Get the Van Conversion Guide here: bit.ly/2WERxIN 🚐 FREE Parts List: bit.ly/2ZypQE0 Don’t forget to Subscribe for more! Thanks

[@Janawhitej1]

How much did this cost you in parts Because I'd probably have to pay my friend to help me to do it awesome mate I was gonna buy the phev or ev But don't know how they are for long range still considering it

[@leninha5549]

I am a woman from(now) 68 and, am travelling around every year,(for15 years now) for several months with my car and caravan.. On my own.. Never had any problem.. Had a dog but she died after 15 years.. Travelling alone is sad every now and than however, going at the campsides during the nights, makes travelling like this nicer(for me though)... Enjoying my life like this and using every second... Am thinking of buying a campervan also.. a small one.. Have a joyful life you all... 🙋‍♀️🙏

[@4legs4paws55]

Finally an efficient and down to earth design without instagramable nonsense. Love it!

[@faith_brown]

I love how this design left a large open space in the center

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks , you can easily have 4 people socialising in the van with the swivel seat turned round and then their more space on the bed 🙂

[@SatumainenOlento]

@@ScoobieDee Yes! Super good layout! Maximum usage of the layout!

[@gedison5551]

@Scoobie Dee - Also quite like the layout of your van, and the wood flooring - ceiling balance. That open space is very inviting. Doesn’t look cramped. Great size for a fridge ... and those spice jars doubling as controls for it, ingenious! (Or, is the fridge doubling as a mini-spaceship, to bug out with Scoobie if things get too weird on Earth?) 😉 So, that swivel passenger seat is a “double” size? Haven’t seen those before, but looks super comfy. I’ll be looking for one of those when I get to my van build. Of course, over here, across the pond, passenger seat will be on the other side of the cab area. (You know, the “right” side.) Enjoyed your sense of humor and very down-to-earth style of communicating; will check out your channel on KZbin, and maybe Instagram. Shout out to Scoobie! She seems like a delightful and sweet - if slightly frenetic - companion. At 1 year old, she’s really still a puppy. (Considering whether I’d travel with my cats, or a single cat, or if I need to get a dog. Fortunately, have some time to make that decision. Won’t consult the cats. 🙀)

[@neybelladl8024]

@@SatumainenOlento eery ko

[@traciwilliams5673]

Yes ! I love all the space!!! I could do this !!!!!😀

[@Pshady]

I could see this guy working in television, smooth watchable delivery

[@susie9893]

Yeah I agree. Despite the fact he often didn't know the terms for various items you just felt like it didn't matter and that HE wasn't bothered by not getting it right (and he probably does know all the right terms but just a bit nervous - but it still worked)

[@BoomBoom_ChuckyChuck4559]

I could see him doing very well in different areas... 🤗🤫😉

[@munecamorena7529]

I agree!

[@danskbb]

He just did

[@holyfox94]

They would have already cancelled him for the Mont Blanc tunnel joke😉 It was a good a good one, though.

[@esra2146]

I not only liked the van but also enjoyed the way he talked about his van:)

[@judil3294]

Yes, it suddenly struck me, that most of the time I want the people to get off camera and just show the project, but he's just so comfortable to listen to. I never once felt like wanting him to get out of my face.

[@kismetau]

Judy S l agree. He has a lovely soothing voice.

[@SatumainenOlento]

Yes, I could have kept listening and watching him for a bit longer!

[@BoomBoom_ChuckyChuck4559]

Yes He has a very sexy smooth voice

[@kichapi]

Daren can make a self-help podcast and I'll be one of his first listener. He exudes calm confidence and wisdom in his voice that whatever he says never gets boring. I'll try to follow you advice! In a few years time.

[@ifitistobeitisuptome]

I have absolutely NO IDEA why this video has had 400 dislikes??? Seriously what is peoples problem? The van is good, the owner & presentation is good. The filming & editing is also good! So honestly why 400 people disliked it is beyond me!! People are just jealous sometimes I think!

[@kiriakiria9685]

Totally agree with you!

[@djahant]

I love this layout the best! Especially with the sofa. I loved the paper lantern too! I would need a loo as you call it because I'm older and have to use it every night. No shame in my game. LOL. I see he had a jar behind the drivers seat for just such an occasion.

[@jenniferh.7219]

This guy is like a 2020 Mr Rogers without the vest. He gives the 'Would you like to be my neighbor~' Vibe & Yes, Yes I would

[@lms4778]

LOL

[@blackstarblues9055]

Yes! I think I would feel safe & calm in his presence. Love the layout of his van. The space & seating are great.

[@katlyn0320]

I’m 23, have barely traveled at all in my lifetime and I want to do this so bad. I am becoming addicted to these videos. I feel like I should do it in a year when I graduate or I won’t have another chance. Like he said, there are only so many years so take the opportunity!

[@sdgidney4139]

I traveled in station wagons with my parents and on my own the traditional way cars, airplanes and hotels in my 20's & 30's. However after watching these videos, my son is seriously interested in van life after college. My family prefers he doesn't, but he has the rest of his life for rent and mortgage. If you do it just be safe. Everyone doesn't have to vlog, but if you do make it a week or two after you leave. Blessings, health and safety ❤️

[@unknnoowmaxence6309]

Maybe starting by learning traveling around your place. People always wanna cross the world but forgot the beauties there is next doors

[@Ramdapanda]

I'm turning 31 in a month and I'm just now thinking of getting a van. Not to live vanlife though but to go on weekends and maybe a couple of weeks vacation with. Did a couple of backpacking trips when I was 25-28 years old after working for a couple of years post graduation. Point being there will be more chances if it's something you really want to do. Whis you all the best!

[@aaronharris5275]

Interesting guy, nice to see someone of similar age talking about his van life experience. Great van too!

[@susie9893]

Yeah I was thinking same. Most van lifers seem to be either pretty young or retirees so it was great to finally see someone I could relate to more easily

[@susie9893]

This guy was very easy to listen to. So nice and positive but laid back too. Really interesting how he described his reasoning behind his van build and also his reflection of how he feels it worked out. Would be great to catch up with him again in a year to see how it's all going and whether he thinks it's still working (I liked Nate's recap episodes describing what had worked and hadn't)

[@ScoobieDee]

Sound like a good idea 💡

[@meggmegg6656]

Love the design. Seems much more spacious than many. Love the dog.

[@heatherclayton-callaghan4270]

But he had a pee jar under his drivers seat !!!

[@abcxyz3783]

Cuppa tea shelf and tea collection " because it's all about the tea" ... Be still my heart. Where were you thirty years ago. You are just stinkin' sweet.

[@zarty8121]

Spacious design yet with sufficient storage spaces everywhere.. Score 10/10

[@shellyjay8954]

Very spacious. Finally a van you can freely move about. Excellent conversion.

[@kwombok]

The couch + rotating bench + sliding table design is really smart, tremendous use of space and great flexibility. Very slick build!

[@ThePrinspascal]

rotating bench ? how ?

[@flybeep1661]

The weight distribution however is a concern. He has all the weight to one side. There's actually nothing on this build that puts weight on the other side to counter it. While it's a nice open and smart design, it's not the safest and I bet on a level road this van will look slightly tilted to one side.

[@lifemyway200]

@@ThePrinspascal the front passenger seat

[@teenyleek1233]

Great design and daniel... well I would happily watch him for hours, beautifully spoken, good character and lovely spaniel

[@ceciliapulido9303]

Thks for that, so refreshing to see a mid age person go for van life and do their own conversion... gives me incentive and encouragement!

[@soft566]

A

[@lindathompson4770]

Very Nice! Agree dogs are great ice breakers for meeting people. I thought Scoobie was an Irish Setter pup....She's a sweetie! I'd have to put the little shelf for morning tea on the other side of the clothes closet. I'd spill it for sure trying to get it across the bed!

[@xD-lt1mq]

Finally a normal dude with a conversion van and not 2 'digital nomads' yuppies.

[@tgee7485]

Haha, for real.

[@Michael-4]

Just what I was thinking. With the woman bending over in her thong to show you her pot cupboard. This guy is really down to earth.

[@xD-lt1mq]

@@Michael-4 Imma need a link to verify 👀👀

[@milkeyway7105]

@@Michael-4 nomadic movements? There are a lot of normal van lifers though

[@Astridos78]

@@Michael-4 WHAHAHAHAHAAA!!! Yes, that.

[@susans7091]

Darne, the perfect van for a single and a dog! My Spoo would love it, and so would I, at 75 years old:) So sweet to see you with Scoobie.

[@berenicejade3489]

omg I could listen to him talking for hours. Love his energy, wisdom and cute accent. And Scoobs is so adooorable :)

[@ScoobieDee]

Berenice Jade hi ... so come over and check out the other Scoobie Dee vids 🙂

[@danaolson9708]

Thank you enjoyed watching. Will look you and scooby up!

[@chumneywarner8147]

Love the van Nate, simple and effective layout but most of all as a fellow middle-aged man, looking to make the most of our precious time, you've inspired me. 👍

[@helenmanning9709]

Ah here ....you need your own programme !! I sincerely hope i meet Scoobie dee on the road sometime . I'm just getting ready to start my own conversion and take my life on the road... Having raised a fabulous and adventure loving family its now time for me to show them age is just a number .... i cant wait ...but mostly Im so excited at the prospect of converting and customising my own van . Thank you for sharing your space with us !

[@ScoobieDee]

Helen Manning that’s great news Helen. Both Scoobie and I wish you all the best for your conversion and van trips .

[@rasmusvestergaard7580]

This guy seems like a really decent fella! Great job with the van.

[@ruthh3496]

When his dog came in & his whole tone changed 🥺🥺🥺😂 loveddd this build & always exciting to see a fellow brit livinv van life haha x

[@lasharonbrown9454]

This is one of my favorite van tours; honest host & efficient conversion. Makes me want to hang out with Scoobs! 🐕

[@ladym2398]

The advice he gave was absolutely on point. Why wait? If your the time becomes available, take it and see as much of the world as possible.

[@jeffreyzain]

That table gives me anxiety - apart from that, I love his van.

[@bishouneng415]

It gave me scoliosis vibe, jk lmao I love this guy hes so calming

[@SD-hs2pk]

Yea, can't reach all 4 people

I don't laugh often enough-Thanks, man!

[@annikachristensen4323]

Right?! One bump and down goes the table setting LOL I love the build though!

[@jamesmcsparron]

Screw on two folding legs to each corner instead of the single middle one? Anxiety gone!

[@nurgulzhunussova3687]

After watching so many videos I finally found something what almost fitting my needs. So clever to use front seats to clear additional living space. Thank you for sharing.

[@Scouseandyjay]

Incredibly interesting bloke, I think his own channel will do really well!

[@kwong6884]

It’s nice to see a MWB conversion & some IKEA hacks! Daren has done a great job & eased a lot of my concerns about my future MWB van & UK weather

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks K, glad you enjoyed the tour

[@JK-ns5dr]

I love everything about this video. The layout of the van, his attitude, and of course the doggy.

[@Horsewoman725]

Beautifully presented by what seems like a beautifully configured person. Wonderful!

[@coratheexplorer1824]

I just love the way British do and explain van tour straight to the point and no nonsense blablabla compare to American.

[@TheKatherine1958]

I like this build and this guy AND his 🐕! Well done.

[@christopheroagor3236]

Totally enjoyable , from a guy who hasn't got a clue ! My new lady friend has the exact same van model and is processing the possibility of a conversion , so your fab video couldn't have been more timely. Many thanks and more power !!

[@chazcastro-kujak4751]

Couldn’t stop watching this guy actually

[@littlemisssunshine2931]

Loved your van, especially the tea pot (you're right it is all about the tea) and the blinds. Couldn't believe the blinds were from Ikea; they looked like proper van blinds. Scooby is a star. Lucky you for having her. Thanks for sharing.

[@ronjacobe]

You are not judged by what you do, but by the smile you have. That is wonderfully said. You seem like a lovely guy with your lovely dog. Kudos to Scooby for setting up ahead the tone before you meet people, lol.

[@ashleyburton8605]

Do what makes you happy! This guy really does sum it up well, Good looking van also

[@mikemanjo2458]

Love this build. I really like this guy’s explanation...knowledgeable, easy to listen to...great job! (Jane in SC) Sweet traveling companion!

[@christophermoraitis3500]

What a wonderful video. I've watched lots of these tour videos and finally someone a bit more my age doing his thing. Cheers from America

[@castcrus]

I used to have a cute dogo as family member, always helps me start converstions between people, he passed away around age 13. Several years later I got a baby son, when I take him out, he also helps me starting conversations. It reminded me of the old days with my dogo friend. Didn't realize I missed him so much.

[@genitagray6126]

I watch these videos all of the time & this lay out is the best! I’d have to have a bathroom, though, so I’d need a longer van. Great job!!!

[@irenedale5256]

What a great van! Thanks for showing it to us. 💕🐾

[@dweamy1]

Love the design, well done! (but, I'd want to cram in a toilet somewhere though!). :-)

[@clairecarlson3121]

Yes! Somewhere to comfortably lounge which isn’t a bed! Love the couch.

[@zaradimple3980]

You have done so well, you have utilised every inch of space in that van, very cosy especially you have a good companion, a dog is always a comforting loyal friend.

[@darrenboyd6967]

Darren to Daren one bald middle aged guy to another, thanks for this and thanks Nate. I'm currently gathering info (Got the guide already) and looking for a suitable van here in the states. Hopefully one day soon.

[@malcolmrowe5031]

I lived in Asia for almost 5 years, travelled to Cambodia on my own, it was great, made some great friends all over the world! Now live on a small island in Philippines, Boracay Island! Had a campervan but didn't manage to do the vanlife, hope to go back to it in the future! Great video, fantastic attitude!

[@victorialeigh2238]

Visited Mindoro 2004, great diving - loved it! Will go back one day!

[@layde1]

This is a comfortable, gorgeous van (and man) after my own heart. And what a beautiful, stylish little teapot.🌷

[@tamo9520]

"Bits 'n Bobs" absolutely love the analogy!

[@myrnaholder8301]

He’s so easy to listen to. Great communicator.

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks Myma

[@michaelputnam7223]

I’ve rewatched this video like 10 times. I think 5 of those were for the floor plan and build quality. The other 5 were for the guy. Awesome video and cool vib!

[@berreverhaegen5996]

This is one of the better van tour builds and videos.

[@kingdomthings9887]

Check out the RV blind/screen combos, for windows. Pull it down for screen and up for blinds, or in between for a combo 🙂. Like your van, but I would need a toilet & shower. Your 🐕 is so cute! Doesn't look like a Cocker Spaniel. She looks like a Red Irish Setter, mixed with another small breed. Enjoy your travels 😁. Goodbye Scoobs 👋

[@peachygirl2374]

I agree I would need at least a bio toilet

[@2Uahoj]

Thanks for nice tour. I get around central Europe rather simply in my 1987 VW Westfalia camping van. But I love what you did with yours!

[@susie9893]

You living my dream man

[@jazperfatsso707]

San Miguel Beer!!!! ...this man has great taste, ...love this Crafter...brilliant build.

[@y62rig21]

SMB!!!

[@whatsupkylaanddadofficialc8147]

i love the way this rv was designed... i been watching rv's for years, this is the only got my thumbs up, no clattering and very spacious....

[@limaroro3609]

Came here for van, and stayed for Scooby lol, nice setup! 👌

[@bonybackbailey]

This guy seems like a nice chap. Good on him

[@traciwilliams5673]

I love the open space! It’s all nice and simple with all the necessities! I could do this one !,, love it 👍🏽

[@jolewis9478]

Brilliant! Im a middle aged woman in my van wiv my little springer spaniel/miniture poodle cross! It is fantastic! my dog Spoodle loves it too! We both love the outdoors & its like living outside with your cosy frontroom with you! This is a lovely conversion, hope you both have lots of fun adventures! - I bought a ready made Toyota highace minibus conversion with pop top, best thing i ever bought (apart from my lil Noodle of course!) The two of them compliment each other beautifully! lol. best wishes. x

[@virtuallyveganlifestyle3990]

I’m 49 now. As soon as my son finishes high school.. I’m off. Another 4 yrs unfortunately 🙏🏽💜🖖🏽

[@DeborahLong7777]

This is the best lil home I could live in if I only had 150,000. Awesome ❤

[@56beverley]

I have seen loads of these but just come across you. You come over as a lovely chilled human being so have subscribed for the first time. Love your video.

[@anapeterson9709]

I am already inspired, but spending way too much time day-dreaming with these videos! I need one of those who knows what they're doing to give a hand and get my conversion done. Thanks for sharing.

[@dan_ll]

Thanks for this Scoobie Dee. How wonderfully refreshing and really inspiring this is. Super conversion btw.

[@darci12u]

Loved this tour so relaxing Didn't give me anxiety... Loved the Van..especially the kettle.

[@scottyg9167]

I think this is probably the most relevant, inspirational and cool videos on this I’ve seen. Not to mention the content and conversion! So functional and clean! Rock on, Scoobs!

[@gloriamariadc7757]

Omg he’s so good at describing his experience. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@ScoobieDee]

Hey thanks Gloria

[@sandyellis6068]

Thank you! Best layout I’ve seen. Perfect for what I need. Very kind of you to share this video with us 😊

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks Sandy , glad you enjoyed it

[@janetplanet5677]

I loved the whole video, but the bit at the end where he just speaks freely about his own experience and wisdom was such a bonus! Something very special about people who love animals, especially dogs- he was so right about how dogs do the work for meeting people! I have to say hello to EVERY dog I see, to the annoyance of those who dont understand but I have met so many interesting lovely people through dogs, and met so many lovely interesting dogs!! This guy will probably be working in tv soon, so i am glad I've seen him before fame changes him lol x thanks for such a lovely video.

[@stefanhansen5882]

Wonderfully and eloquent presentation. Really inspirational. Thanks!

[@suefreivald7031]

started traveling with our little Casita (not full time, but several months at a time) a few years ago at 80! So with good health, never too late to begin.

[@lovisasoderstrom3955]

I love the wardrobe, I’ve been trying to find a way to include a wardrobe in my build and that layout is perfection

[@Mistressofthegroove]

This build is my most favourite ever!!

[@rosegordon4297]

Best layout I have ever seen and you have a lovely relaxing voice, beautiful doggie too

[@georgeclarke1183]

A very professional video and a nice conversion who has utilising every inch in the van gives me a few ideas of my future build

[@vivlove5221]

I really want a van and I’m really small .. seeing how you’re able to stand in the van shows me I’ll have so much room ✨🙆🏻‍♀️

[@susie9893]

Also maybe you could go smaller. I dream of doing an suv conversion even tho I'm not so small. More versatile - can go off road but also more stealth. Just a thought

[@phyliciajoykloes]

I like how compact this van is. Lovely tour!

[@alisonshanahan9529]

Thoroughly enjoyed this video, great conversion, love the double seat that turns it really does make the whole van feel larger inside. Scoobie is gorgeous, you're both having a wonderful time. Enjoy.

[@lan6686]

Hands down one of favorite van layouts. Simple but comfortable without shrinking the inside with structural clutter.

[@flybeep1661]

One of the most intelligent and optimized designs I've seen. Been looking at ideas for a year to build my own (full time van life) van specifically for a medium wheel base crafter (or sprinter). I'll base my design on this one. For the bed I'd have a problem as I'm 186 cm and wouldn't fit there. However I would fit diagonally on it so no worries. I'll probably incorporate some modular sliding extension to extend the bed when in sleeping mode so it could fit two people (if necessary). For solar I would install a much more beafier system looking at 3 regular solar panels (non flexible, about 700 watts total) and 500 amp lithium battery bank (instead of AGM) for a budget of about 10.000 eur which should be enough. I calculated total budget at about 40.000 eur roughly (45.000 at the absolute max) with 17.500 eur for the van (fresh second hand), 10.000 eur and 12.500 eur for the internal build including fridge and other devices. I'm guessing it should be enough. Still saving up though still have 20 months of saving to do till I reach the needed budget.

[@lorenzogasparroni8670]

Fly Beep on this design, where would you fit toilet and shower?

[@flybeep1661]

@@lorenzogasparroni8670 Shower can't be a fixed room in the van, it's wasted space imho. However I plan on using the open space in front of the couch as a shower. On the roof there would be hooks to hang a shower curtain and the bottom would have a false floor with grooves to mount slats, underneath the false floor there would be a water runoff that leads the water to a grey water tank underneath the van. I've seen this idea in another van build and it's ideal for this van because of the open space in it. The toilet would be a compost toilet and would probably place it where the fridge is. The fridge itself would be place where the water is but it would be a top loader for which the top of the fridge also acts a counter space. The water tanks (clean and grey water) would be situated underneath the van. Also, the van would be slightly bigger and the couch would be modular as part of a clickable extension of the bed. Since I'm 6ft2 I can't sleep width wise. I've also decided not to use a sprinter or a crafter but rather something like a Fiat ducato or a similar van from either renault of citroen. These vans are boxier than a crafter or sprinter which typically are more narrow at the top.

[@BoleiaDaVida]

A love the conversion. A lot of simple solutions in a very short space. For me, being in Brazil, a shower would be a must. Congratulations!

[@neilmawdsley4251]

what a nice Guy ! you should be a presenter on TV ,great to listen to ,love the van

[@theguylevi]

Also being a lone middle aged man, its nice to see others in the swing of van life. Some day...😁🤞🏻

[@michellegreen2994]

Thanks handsome man for showing the van display. Did I miss your shower set up, and toilet review? Beautiful dog 👍🏾😁

[@CMR308]

Finally a van video using the metric system. That really added on to the experience 😃 Great van layout.

[@ScoobieDee]

Thanks Yogarina

[@perfectpeacetaichi1232]

Love This guy and his puppy.🎶Thanks for sharing his van🎈 I would add a toilet though 😃

[@zaradimple3980]

That is so compact, and tidy, everything has its space,

[@CarrieRay]

You have a great van design and it looks comfortable and easy to live in. Nicely done!

[@JB-zc4qy]

So Nice to meet you. Happy trails!

[@NothusDeusVagus]

Scoobs is a lovely pup. Neat van, clearly kitted out the way you want it... I like the Teapot.

[@photonomist6345]

I saw this and thought "this is exactly what I want" after watching endless van conversion videos. Then when you said the bed was not suitable for anyone over 5'10" I was gutted as I am 6'2" (almost). So I guess it is a lengthwise bed that has to be assembled every day, or get an impracticable wide van. Anyway, I loved the video, the conversion and great positive spirit, and will at least take away the inspiration!

[@CathyWs]

Tea ☕️ lover here. I was waiting for the tea collection tour 😭😭😭😭

[@Jam-bn8ff]

Me also