On the road again with a new minivan set up but something is not right!

[@jillsmith1134]

I would love to come camp with you!! I am a newly widowed 54 year old southern lady. You inspired me to get a van and hit the road. I need to get busy living or get busy dying, I CHOOSE LIFE!! I hope I run into you some day.

[@TravelGrandma]

Go for it! Just start with a vehicle you have. Go for a long weekend somewhere to see if you even like camping in your car.

[@jillsmith1134]

@@TravelGrandma I love love love camping!! I just traded my SUV in for a 2021 Toyota Sienna. Now I am trying to find someone to take the seats out!!!!!! I hope I see you out somewhere on the highway. I hope you don’t mind if I come over and say Hello!!!!!

[@Kimberly-ul1ph]

Yay!!! Thank you for not depending on GPS!!!! Real paper maps and map books are priceless!

[@TravelGrandma]

So true!

[@CraftHarlot]

I love Dr Bronner's!! We use it for everything, too! It works great for dishes, since you can just dump the water when you're done. Also, a quick freshen-up "shower" can be done by using a spray bottle with a half tsp of Dr Bronner's, spray your body or use on a wash cloth. Rinse with another spray bottle of clear water. Dry off.

[@mbd6054]

Your whole set up is just ingenious. It's really well thought out and practical, with no wasted space, and no clutter. I often think that manufacturers of huge expensive RVs should hire people like you as Consultants. They could learn a lot from you. Thank you for sharing.

[@TravelGrandma]

I've owned RVs before so I had a pretty good idea of what how to live in a vehicle. I just had to do it on a smaller scale.

[@mbd6054]

@@TravelGrandma 👍

[@MikeLove83]

@@TravelGrandma do you have a video on how you made the bed? I really wanna do this set up but I have no clue?.. what type of wood did you use etc.

[@martasplace6414]

Wow... you are so smart and you are very creative! I love the way you took the screw out and put a eye screw to fasten it down, and then sawing the legs off that one side...wow I would need you around when I get ready to hit the road.... hopefully not too much longer!!! Thank you for your videos, you are so sweet and helpful!!! 👍💕

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you enjoyed the video. Take a look at my latest build and how I really changed it in this newer video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZmVg39jl8ZloK8

[@tiffanyarmstead4148]

Wow your build is amazing hun.

[@elisafrye2115]

I have looked at THOUSANDS of mini-van builds and arrangements, and THIS is the most practical, beautifully organized, yet simple,, and PRETTY arrangement I have ever seen! AND NO CLUTTER! 🥇WHAT A JOY! 🥰💞❤️

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. I am very happy with this van. So many possibilities to change it up so easily. Fits my style of traveling perfectly.

[@lifemyway200]

Ok, I commented on this vid with a question 5mos ago, but im watching again and dont know how I missed you using a bit of pool noodle to make your pump fit....genius!! I don't have my van yet, but I knew i didnt want one of the 5 gallon jugs for my water and was trying to think of an idea to make my pump fit. Such a great idea! 🤗

[@karenlewkowitz5858]

The clean water jug placement, pump and noodle is Next Level😃😃

[@leilal8053]

Whoever invented the stow and go seats was a genius 👏. Clever & practical, yet stylish conversation . 👌

[@blktuscangirl6863]

I love your set up, well thought out and crafty

[@linsweet2257]

lots of great ideas. Thanks. I make sure all my food in bags and boxes are in tin or glass(mice)

[@ptradventures2262]

This is a really cute set up

[@francieanneriley7349]

I love your use of fabric bags for packet style foods. Much better than hard sided containers as they adjust to the ebb and flo of your pantry. You have me rethinking a few things here.... thank you for the inspiration!

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad it was helpful.

[@happydays9613]

Love it. I have a upgrade and trying out things too in.a bigger space, absolutely love car camping. Really helps me with my well-being and health. Keep safe and blessed and thank you for sharing. 🇬🇧 solo female part-time car camper

[@8188jlpc]

Clean & organized, well set up

[@connectionoflivesandinterests]

*New here. Looking forward to watching your videos. I enjoy watching the Van living Lifestyle. Safe travels. 😁😁😁* Sharon in SC

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoy my channel

[@roselsimpson858]

A viewer sent me a link to this video because I recently did a review on the Hot logic, I own 4 of them. She told me that the 1st time she ever heard of the hot logic was from you. I enjoyed the entire video good stuff keep up the good work. Happy Trails!!!

[@JustMe-cy3wg]

Oh my!!! I want a set up like yours❤. Beautiful!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you! 🤗

[@AngieMaeart]

💖Your videos are so delightful. Many blessings and happy travels

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank You.

[@poweroflove993]

Thank you for the details! It seems possible l will do a similar build

[@mikeseals4500]

Best set up I've seen for keeping it simple 💯👌

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you like it!

[@54bonkers]

Great ideas! Thanks for sharing!☮️❤️☀️

[@msshoeka5573]

OMG very creative.....LOVE IT... Be safe be bless

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you, I will

[@Hisalone]

Hi there, one can learn a lot from these videos. much appreciated. while I was watching your video and making some notes for my future van, I decided to practice washing in a small space and doing my dishes without a sink etc....safe travels

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad it was helpful!

[@holly3891]

Thanks for sharing what works for you.

[@janiceyoung7106]

One of the best I've seen!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you

[@Monaz1]

Than You for your honesty. I'm a vanlifer and it's Soo true that you don't Love everything. And the way your gonna know what you like is to do it.

[@TravelGrandma]

Exactly. Safe travels.

[@poweroflove993]

Great ideas. Very do a ble

[@paisleypath]

I really like what you did with the rug and mat. Can’t believe I didn’t think of cutting it to allow for different seat arrangements. It looks great! So many terrific ideas in this video. Keep up the good work👍

[@TravelGrandma]

You really don't need the carpet. I just found that keeping the black minivan caroeting that's in the van too difficult to keep looking clean. Plus the gray floor just lightens everything up more.

[@DiasFrugalLife]

Lots of great tips and gadgets 💯 👍 and yes 👍 it’s so much fun 🤩

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks. I'm glad you liked this video

[@jangreen5549]

Lots of great ideas!

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

Your van has progressed so much in a short time, from this video, to what it is today ! I am glad this came up, I need that water jug system for my DGCARAVAN set up also. That is easier than any I have seen. My 'BettyLou' is not near as neat as your lovely van. Does your van have a name ? I was trying to beat the Florida heat and do a trial run this weekend. However, typical Sybil 🙄 Florida weather, I was sweating bullets yesterday; it is supposed to be 29° on Sunday Morn ! It never fails. I count my many Blessings though. God is good 👵🏼🙏❤

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes I named my minivan Little Dove

[@rachelcharris]

I watch loads of these kind of videos and I absolutely love your designs. This is totally the way to do campervanning and you've just perfected it was some wonderful ideas and some wonderful tidy little nooks. Bless you. Well done. You are a blessing! I see things in your videos that I've never seen anywhere else and I love that you now have a jackery with a solar panel. Plus I know you're not full-time so you can always go home to recharge if you need to but it's great that you've got a 12-volt plug in the back what a brilliant vehicle.

[@KRoseB]

I enjoyed this tour of your van evolution. ☺Very nice!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you

[@vantasticjourneyswithjordy790]

My first time seeing someone who plans for a passenger. I’m planning on having a toddler with me so a backseat child seat is a must! Thank you for showing it can still work!

[@libbygardner3021]

I have a Honda Odyssey, and while I’m not on the road until June, I will be full time after that. I’m planning to keep the front passenger seat and one foldaway back seat for times when I’m visiting with both of my kids, who are just graduating HS. Since I also have a very large service dog, it will be tight, but doable. Most of time, the kids will not be with me.

[@lizzettemarquez2862]

Looks so comfy, love the new decor and storage🤩

[@purpleryoko]

I love your set up! I do agree with other comments about keeping your jackery out of site.

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes. I love it when we all help each other learn better ways for doing things.

[@renavarges3852]

Love the layout and decor. The thought you put into your build to create space and comfort was smart. Thanx 4 sharing.

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@michaelburne3936]

i love the set up of your van

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. Check my latest videos as I have updated a lot more recently.

[@daphnefitts9229]

So glad to see such a good realistic van build its great !!!!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. It works well for me.

[@kristendahl5509]

I so enjoy your videos! You and others have inspired me to travel, even in my small Honda Fit! I have incorporated your ideas into my travel setup. Safe travels!

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad to hear it. Safe travels.

[@lindaestridge8680]

Just getting started. Your video was helpful and enjoyable.

[@Bushcraft242]

Senior camper van 🚐

[@TracyChannelview]

I really like your new set up! Thanks for showing it in so much detail! Happy travels and be safe.

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks so much!

[@TheHapiCamper]

I wish I could tolerate a 24” bed. The floor space you have is wonderful. I love the carpet you chose as well. Very nice.

[@TravelGrandma]

My mattress is 25" so adding that extra inch really makes a difference. As you may have noticed I'm not a small size woman. Actually without the bin under the window where I have it I'd have a lot more elbow room. A comfortable mattress really matters too. I think you can get away with a wider platform if you're okay with sacrificing some space on the side. I sit on my bed to cook and use my dresser's counter as a desk so it was important for me to have enough space for my feet there. Also I tend to lift and shift my weight instead of roll from side to side when I sleep. I also sometimes just sleep on my back. Not sure which I really do more of. LOL

[@teresa0923]

That’s right we have to do learn things your way, the way you are comfortable with for your daily routine💝🇺🇸florida, miamibeach

[@cooldesertknight9013]

Waw! A fantastic set up! I got many good ideas from it. Thanks a lot, and Salaam to you and to all.

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad it was helpful.

[@kath6252]

Love your set up. I'm going to copy some of your ideas.

[@TravelGrandma]

Please do!

[@craftytraveler9238]

So glad you are posting videos again, I missed you. WOW! your van renovations are so inventive and cute. Love your decor. Thanks for the video.

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you like the update. Happy to have you joining the facebook group too.

[@ladytydi]

Loved your video and your build. One day I will be on the road. Happy travels to you~♡

[@hopefranklin9155]

Great video. You shared a lot of tips and info to help others. Your set up is perfect. I love the gray, yellow and daisy vibe you have going on. Way cute together. The daisy curtains and little goody bags you made are spot on. The room you have I could deal with. Great job. Enjoy your travels and take care.

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jayburke1601]

I really enjoyed your video TGMa ! I absolutely love your new setup so versatile and organized and well thought out you have added so many amazing features ! I would love to have two of those foldable panels for privacy !! The way your water bottle fits behind your storage cabinet is amazing for inside water options with the surface as a countertop there..... Always good to see you doing well thank you for sharing all the tips ideas and inspiration!!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks for following along Jay.

[@thereseshine7506]

So cute!

[@annafernando6816]

I love all your tricks and tips and will definitely keep them in mind for my minivan. Happy travels!

[@TravelGrandma]

Happy travels to you too.

[@kelishiaking3162]

Very nice van build! Simple, easy & VERY functional! I love it

[@TravelGrandma]

Keeping things organized by having a dedicated place to put everything makes it easy to maintain.

[@audreywilliams5780]

I really like what you have done..But I still would say I like the set up with the lagoon table set up

[@karenlewkowitz5858]

You and Debbie look like sisters! Love your video!

[@jackies1597]

So glad you are back! Setup is looking good, love the curtains. You should get small plastic containers for cereals and other mouse friendly foods. Those critters get into cars and vans for snacks 😂.

[@TravelGrandma]

Good idea about the plastic bins. I'll definitely get some now that you've made me aware of watching out for those critters.

[@YahshuaLovesMe]

Wow you are very clever!

[@damaydastouch7670]

Just love your set up! Love everything you have, too cute!! Safe Travels!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. I'm glad you like it.

[@nancyr45]

Looks comfy organized love it. Love your channel ❤

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you like my channel.

[@carolynmerritt7100]

👍 great job!!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you! 👍

[@roxyloyst725]

Hi from ON Canada near the Thousand Island border at NY. Your videos are so down to earth. I love it. Your van build out is awesome and so neat. At some point when I can’t my camper out I hope to do a van. Not sure where your located but at some point would be awesome to meet up. I’m into scrapbooking with some of my friends

[@TravelGrandma]

Join the free Nomadsdowntheroad.com website to connect with me and other like minded people who enjoy road traveling

[@wendyorides8337]

Thanks for sharing your ideas. I used the screen idea during my travels this summer.

[@gailjohnson6670]

Love it. You did a great job. Thank you for sharing. Blessings to you.

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks Gail. Blessings to you too

[@bellachi9575]

Great tips and lovely setup! Thanks for sharing.

[@TravelGrandma]

You are so welcome!

[@amiralions2681]

Great video and you have all of the seats! I really didn't want a wooden bed platform but you can store long items in a minivan and it doesn't look cluttered. Great job! I'm watching this a year later so I'm assuming the food isn't loose like that anymore, with all of the easy to chew through paper and plastic exposed.

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes my van has transformed quite a bit since this video

[@bboop1964]

Thanks for sharing your build! I think it’s awesome. Just subscribed and look forward to more of your journey!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. I have a few more ideas that I will be doing during December.

[@rachelcharris]

I would just put curtains up all the way round the van because it's cheerier and less depressing when you are shut in at night. I used to live in a van and I have done a lot of van camping as well I suppose. You could always have your reflectives behind the curtains if you wanted them to but then you've got the curtains to put across during the day if you go to the loo or any other quick privacy thing and to get up in the morning the light shines through and also they just so easy at night and cosy. You could make them blackout at the back or thermal if needs be. Lovely. You've got a real gift for this. Also I would get rid of some of the extra things you have to just keep what you need me normally because it's so much more fun and light. You could easily use that to work in or chill out in the day or socialize and I love the tent and the chairs underneath the bed ❤️🙏❤️

[@TravelGrandma]

It's always nice to hear from more experienced van lifers. Great tips.

[@rachelcharris]

@@TravelGrandma I'm not sure if I'm more experienced but I just watch a lot of channels and I think you build up good ideas from different things and experiences but your stuff is great I love it! Go girl. I'm getting loads of tips for future adventures thank you.

[@lauras.8088]

I love the changes since I saw it in person!

[@TravelGrandma]

Great meeting you too. Do much fun.. I think you were the first person to see my minivan changes too.

[@valerierichardson458]

Nice and make sense but I think you should put your food items in plastic containers. If you are in the woods camping nature little creatures will find there way into your pantry. Just an FYI!! Hopefully, I will join you soon in the adventure of traveling nomad. Stay safe

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes. I have since purchased a good plastic container for some of my food.

[@loriemurray160]

You did it girl!!! Very elegant! Love this!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you so much!!

[@MySonsMother]

Love the new decor and color scheme. Consider this for bed storage. Center 1/5 is solid and connected. Then 2/5 both back and front are hinged to open towards front and back. More useful than in half.

[@TravelGrandma]

That's a great idea. Thanks for the suggestion Sherri

[@GrandmaBugsPlace]

My goodness - I love how you are set up and best of all organized!!! Very comfortable and cozy and well I just love it. Daisy curtains - my favorite flower and of course they look lovely Thanks for sharing what you have and what works for you. I put some of those items on a list of what I will purchase....at some point I will have a van. Had a small RV (class c) but sold her. I just need something small to get away in once in a while....your set up is just what I would like.

[@TravelGrandma]

I've had RVs before and this van by far has been the most convenient, park it anywhere, and versatile travel vehicle I've owned. Especially for the kind of traveling I do.

[@OnTheRoadwithBarbaraJo17]

I love the new setup. You are a inspiration. I will be going on your fb page and joining. Happy trails

[@TravelGrandma]

Terrific. The more the merrier.

[@lindabonkoski2673]

Omg you surely did used every inch of your van. Awesome job 👏

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes! Thank you!

[@johnettew3957]

Versatility is great. You have form and function. I like the water set up and the spaciousness in your van. I have an older model van (without stow and go) but with my 'no build' furnishings, the van can serve as a great little home on wheels or a six person customized van turning the bed to a sofa for three and an extra captain's chair on wheels in the middle. Oh, and I'm looking forward to meeting you in Pigeon Forge soon.

[@TravelGrandma]

Yes me too. I can't wait to see your van in person.

[@jonim8040]

Clever lady!

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you.

[@christinehopkins7561]

Loved your video… lots of great ideas!!

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you like what I've done. Thanks for your kind words.

[@osnat057]

Lovely to know!!! I'm jealous ... ): (: have as much fun as possible! A hug from me is far from Israel

[@TravelGrandma]

Thanks for watching. I'd love to visit your country someday.

[@ladyb713johnson6]

Love your set 🆙 very neat and organized!

[@TravelGrandma]

Glad you like it!

[@debbiebreeze903]

So nice to see you around again.

[@TravelGrandma]

It's nice to be on the road again.

[@tinadearcos-ahten586]

Love your helpful tips. I just started car camping this past weekend and loved it. I’m a grandma of 6! Do you ever organize group camp events for ladies? If so I would love to be a part! ☺️

[@TravelGrandma]

Join my Travel Grandma facebook community.

[@carolstevenson5715]

WOW!!! I like your easy setup. I would do it like that simple. And only thing I would make better is to put a bathroom, Shower with a closet door that is kind you slid or a folding door. GODSPEED!!!!

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

Fantastic design, decor, usefulness and well thought out. I too have boxes with my clothes in them and I have put some of those silicate bags in the bottom to take moist and smell.

[@TravelGrandma]

Oh good idea about the silicate bags. I'll have to try that. Thanks.

[@zanpackard1423]

You are so inspiring! I bought my 2016 Town and Country specifically to use as a road trip/ camper van. I’m on my 3rd rendition (LOL) to accommodate road trips with my grand daughter. You’ve given me soooo many ideas. And I love that since Dodge and Chrysler are nearly identical interiors, I know the things you recommend will fit in my van too. Off to join your Facebook group too!

[@lorihamlin3604]

Enjoyed the video! You’re right, until you travel you just don’t know individual needs. I bought a used Sienna and had one middle row seat removed (no midrow stow n go) and left stow and go rear seats in so room for 6 passengers with camping gear out. At the moment I’m using a camp cot and 4” folding mattress. I was disappointed in my lighting as I read a lot and battery operated fan died in middle of night so those two essentials I’m working on. The reflectics were a hassle as well. I plan to use your window shade idea and get the little hot pot and jackery and I’m good to go! I’ll be watching for your future videos🥰

[@TravelGrandma]

I don't think I mentioned it but for lighting I have a solar Luci light. No electricity needed. I stick in by my windshield during the day and at night the light from it lasts a long, long time.

[@serenakoleno9338]

I love the collapsible solar lamps from target, 25 dollars each, 3 settings and prettier than luci lights. You can set them or hang them. Not sure if they are bright enough to read by when you hang them. I ordered another light online for reading. I haven't really used it yet. USB charged. If you put fan on lowere setting might last all night. I have 3 usb fans, the most powerful doesn't last as long on high, one stays plugged in and the quietest last longest on low. Two purchased at Aldi's and third ? Will look for brand names.

[@lorihamlin3604]

@@serenakoleno9338 Thanks for info. Going to Target today so will look for solar light. It’s cooler so fans not as much of issue. Definitely need a good reading light.

[@debbiefockler9890]

Great information. I want to look into a few of your must haves. I hope to be able to get something to travel in like yours or a cargo van. Still looking into what may meet my needs. You are truly an inspiration. Take care.

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. Have you joined my Travel Grandma Facebook group yet. Lots more ideas are shared in there.

[@debbiefockler9890]

@@TravelGrandma yes. I am on your Facebook group.

[@TravelGrandma]

@@debbiefockler9890 Terrific. The more you participate the more you'll get out of it as I and other members get to know you. Welcome.

[@debbiefockler9890]

@@TravelGrandma thank you

[@kelliecorum5427]

❤TFS!

[@carolynsparks3164]

WOW,,, I just found your videos.. Awesome set-up..Thank you for sharing.

[@TravelGrandma]

You are so very welcome. Glad you like the videos.

[@dfros1957]

I really enjoy watching your videos. Thank you for sharing 😊

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you for watching

[@lindaboyd6067]

Missed ya, glad to see you are back on the road, be safe. 🥰❤️🇨🇦

[@TravelGrandma]

It's great to be back on the road.

[@chrissis111]

This is so helpful!

[@TravelGrandma]

I'm glad you found my video helpful.

[@doulacoach6801]

Your mini-van build is awesome! Thank you SO much for sharing! I was looking for a link to where you got your water container. I also love the pool noodle hack, to fit the water pump well onto it. Fabulous! Where can we find the water container? Thx! So many good ideas. Safe travels.

[@TravelGrandma]

amzn.to/3lcsgk1

[@bambihargrove6499]

Looks Awesome and very functional ❤👍

[@TravelGrandma]

So far so good.

[@michelledavis2717]

Love your new setup! ❤

[@marthaoliver1099]

Nice ! 😷

[@Eyesis_1]

Very nice up-grades/dates and changes. 💖

[@nanaimojack3376]

I love you set up . I noticed you had that stick to check your water level thats kool! as far as a stick to hold your reflectors in your window, you can pick up paint stirrers sticks at a paint store that are long enough to do the whole window they will give them to you for free just ask for the 5 gallon stirer sticks cut to size after you get them .

[@ModernDayPilgrim]

Just happened upon your channel! I’m a “Nena” I take my sweet grand-girl van camping with me! She loves it! Same van? 2019 Dodge Grand Caravan is what I have. So funny too, I have rubber backed utility rugs covering the carpet in my van too! Love your set up!! Have a fabulous night! Happy trails! 💯😃🙌🏼

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. Hope to see you on the road at some point. Please consider joining my private women's only facebook group. I'd love to connect with you in there.

[@ModernDayPilgrim]

@@TravelGrandma thank you! But I don’t have Fb. If you ever want to connect, check out my Instagram for my email. Have a fabulous night! 😃💯🙌🏼

[@galgonecamping5173]

Love your set up! I'm a grandma too! Getting ready to redo my minivan camper. Where did you get your dresser? Love it--that is exactly what I need! Saw something similar, but looks like drawers were different size. Just subscribed...maybe I'll see ya down the road sometime. Thanks for the tips!😊 Gal Gone Camping

[@TravelGrandma]

7-drawer Dresser amzn.to/3vUrZFd

[@kburkes4245]

I appreciate your video and your perspective.

[@TravelGrandma]

Thank you. That's a very nice thing to say.