Planning the Materials & Budget for My Van Build!

[@T.J-and-Soul]

Do yourself a favour and for the roof vent get a Maxxair deluxe fan. They are about $550 but can be used as a vent, exhaust fan or draw outside air in because they have forward and reverse. Get a Sorocco fan from Anaconda to use as an oscillating fan on the wall above your bed. You can park in the shade and put your solar panels out, you may not need the air-conditioning then.The maxxair can run at night off your battery banks. That's a bit of an investment, but you will be glad you did it. Look them up on youtube before you commit to anything.

[@annkat893]

In addition and if you can afford it, it’s worth getting a skylight as well. The fan and skylight circulate air with each other, pulling from one to the other

[@RustyCandyAdventures]

Brenna. There mens and womens sheds community places where people go to build things. Ask them and give a donation to help you out. That could help put the ceiling up and the vent. You could go and use the tools there.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Thanks for the tip!

[@mezganly1963]

LOL ... I love your sense of humour .... your computer came off the the Ark with Noah lol ... sounds like my laptop ... lol

[@anniewisecarver744]

I second the Maxxair 👍🏼

[@della7]

Why mess with perfection? You've got your van how you want it, so why not replicate it?! Go, Brenna!

[@michelle18474]

This will be brilliant to follow as I’ve just purchased a van too!

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

🥳

[@LeaciaBramich-vh1ht]

Good luck with the build, have a Merry Christmas🌟

[@robynshore7942]

Thank you Brenna for step one in the planning of your new van. Cant wait till step two and that is seeing your new van.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Soon! 🚐

[@exploringnext1111]

May i suggest using "Marine Grade Adhesive" instead of liquid nails. Good in moisture.

[@pamelaanderson1833]

I'm so excited to watch you build your new van! My van is being looked after while I am overseas. I miss her so much, so I watched all your videos again to help with the homesickness (for the van!). It's lovely to see Abby mooching around with her cousins ❤️

[@Kiwiwanderer]

You are looking good, happy and passionate about the next chapter! I think your old van was great and a good design. Bring on the new van and 2025!

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Thank you, I'm feeling positive about it! 😊

[@banksiasong]

There's a heatwave of 40C coming up, so time to enjoy the coolness. Hope it all comes through before chrissie. Your organisational skills are àmazing, hoping to learn some by watching this.

[@KerrynWoodward]

I use my awning like you do, i agree, much better. If your awning has a sewn part where you can slide a pole in, then a c channel awning rail from Bunnings, very cheap, pop riveted onto the van, slide the awning onto it, works great.

[@joyweaver9717]

You may want to consider coating your floor ply with a fibreglass type resin to prevent water damage make sure you do top, bottom and edges. if you don’t have opening windows I would suggest getting a fan in your roof and one that both blows in and out everyone raves about Max air. I’ve never had one but got a cheaper version of eBay that did reverse the flow also if you can try to source your ply etc. from other than Bunnings. I found they were a lot more expensive. Although they do have cover sheets(ply that is been on the top layer of a shipment.) which they sometimes give free or sell for a small amount so look into that.

[@denisebrown7643]

What about... sand paper for ply edges and smoke detector. Also have a look in the paint mis-tint section of Bunnings as they can be heavily discounted. I also second the Maxxair Delux fan (keeps rain and unwanted debris out (including creepy crawlies)) and I put a 12v cigarette plug on mine to plug into the EcoFlow. Good luck with your build! 🙂👍

[@T.J-and-Soul]

Good idea the 12v plug.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Yes, I have sandpaper left over from the first build that I have been carrying around for 4 years.😊

[@petreamccarthy8635]

9mm marine ply for floor, cupboards, benchtops in my Hiace SLWB. it's been excellent for full time living for a couple of years.

[@petreamccarthy8635]

A hacksaw will cut the cargo barrier - slowly (but cheaply). A panel saw will cut plywood nice and straight and save the cost of a circular saw.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Good to know.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Good idea and an upper body workout at the same time 🧐

[@YolandeB-d9x]

Hey Brenna , you are a breath of fresh air. I've been watching your videos for a few years and have now subscribed. Was saddened to hear your story of your van being written off. One door closes and another exciting door opens. You have a new project!! I've just purchased a 2017 Toyota Hiace SLWB and embarking on my own no build fit out project. The timing of your videos are perfect. So informative. thankyou. On a side note...in your next "Frequently Asked questions" might be worth doing one on Superannuation...just a thought. Wishing you and Abby a happy Christmas full of joy. take care

[@dianemurillo6017]

hi brenna (living stationary..lol ) this is so fun looking forward to watching and thank you for sharing. hi to Fay and Abby and the other little pups.

[@Rosemary-ye5dl]

Really looking forward to watching how you build-out. Very inspiring, love how you keep it simple - all you need.

[@lorrainemcgovern5838]

Looking foward to the next video. Thanks for sharing your journeys!

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Thanks for watching! 😊

[@JanetteBigham]

Oh girls so sorry for your worry. We missed the last video so just caught up. Dearest Abby. We know you love her (and vice versa) so much so have no doubt whatever your decisions are - they will absolutely be for the best. So glad the van was controlled and that you're both ok. One word of advice - buy good quality drill bits Brenna and look forward to watching your upcoming videos. All the best with the new van. We have a 2016 car and it still feels and smells new, so you will love your new home. Wishing Abby a speedy recovery and also looking forward to saying goodbye to 2024 for various reasons. Take care gals, lotsa love Mer, Jan and Arki 🐶xx

[@kimcharters1957]

This was very useful and grounding information for me so thanks for pointing me in the right direction of starting from the floor and going upwards. I better get out of Ikea and go to Bunnings first. 😂

[@T.J-and-Soul]

I think you should get someone to install a DC to DC charger. Kings sell them fairly cheap. It will charge your battery bank as you drive. If you run low on power while camping all you have to do is start the van and let it idle for an hour. May save you a lot of stress at times. I just remembered ecoflow make a dc to dc charger now for the power stations. Hit them up.

[@petreamccarthy8635]

Dcdc chargers are pretty simple to fit. DIY 😊

[@chrissiejoy]

I was so happy that you uploaded this morning :) Coffee with Breanna aha. So excited for 2025 - my goal next year is to save and purchase my own van - your explaining the budget really helps. I know my fitout will take a few years but I still have children in primary school so my dreams to travel like you are still a way off yet but I can take my time with it all. Really appreciate the detail you go into in explaining everything like the costs and why you do what you are doing (like the paint on the side doors to prevent mould etc). Thank you again for sharing your knowledge so generously.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

It is so great to know that you are planning your own van build! 😊

[@Fiona_Chasing_Light]

Thank you Brenna - I'm finding this really useful and inspiring. I think it is great that you are re-using materials from your previous van. If you got the design and layout right the first time, why mess with it? The beauty is, you can change anything as you feel a desire to anyhow. Fingers crossed you can take delivery of the van before the Xmas break.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Glad it was helpful!

[@deeoh3708]

Exciting to see your new plan and budget. Hope you get it before Christmas. Cheers..

[@fionaludbrook8193]

How exciting Brenna. Do you have a tool library or even a Men's Shed you could borrow the tools from? Glad you are using your old van design because it is so efficient. I would be happy with something similar. So glad you can recycle much of your old build too.

[@RustyCandyAdventures]

Benna, great video. I say have a look at Philly and Keely van build. It's very homely feeling.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I have seen that, they have a very nice van! 😍

[@bill13690]

I do like your sense of humour, Brenner. I'm looking forward to seeing your new van. It would be good if your new van was one of the ones with the long wheelbase. Plus, one that has a high roof as well. This coming weekend, I will be spending Christmas at my mum's and also taking my campervan to her place too, plus there will be some videos on that coming soon too on my channel. Look after yourself, Brenner, and enjoy your travels coming along soon, too, in your new van. I suppose your new one is a manual as well, as you may prefer it being so ? I will catch up with you on the next video. Cheers from Bill.

[@dustyroadtherapy]

Fantastic! Loved your original build, it was perfect for you both, felt like a home, like yours, and was sooo functional and well thought out. Have always been impressed. And yeah, totally agree with the awning! I always find it so scary how fast the costs mount up, thanks for sharing your budget. I hope you get your new van soon so you can get started ❤

[@elaineinnz]

After watching your YT channel for a few years, I’m a little surprised you’re replicating the old van. You’ve talked a lot in the past about standing up & getting too hot. A bigger van would help with both issues. Also, I would have thought it’d be cheaper to buy a ready-made van. And you’d be in the road straight away.. Regardless. I’ve just bought a rear awning tent from KMart. It’s designed for a big SUV so I’m hoping it’ll fit but won’t get to try it out until I go camping at Xmas. Hope you get the van soon! 👍

[@Littlenanny]

Hi Brenna, I'm kind of amazed at the amount of KZbin videos that say people need a van roof vent . I've been in my Toyota HiAce now for 18 months with just a12 volt desktop type camp van with the both windows cracked down a little at night. Having a hole cut into the roof is something I wouldn't do as I don't have the confidence to do myself or any professional to do. I just think I'm asking for trouble down the line with leaks, or if I can't replace that vent fan in the future. You never had one before and you seemed to manage fine.What made you decide to get one now?

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I’ve been thinking about it for a while and I felt that this would help with the ventilation in the van.

[@JimmyCall]

Bungs have shower curtail extendable rods, if you need them for clothes hanging, or curtain rod. Only rubber grips at end, so maybe better having drill in holder ends.

[@soundslikesweeney]

An inspiring budget!

[@tanyaking6746]

How exciting Brenna. I can't wait to watch your build ❤

[@edithsymmans3273]

Hi Brenna, Love you video this evening. I love the way you are going about using things especially as it works. You have given me so much information to work with as I am thinking seriously of getting into a van full time. This is an easy way of doing things and I love simple myself, lighter is easier to handle in the long run. Fire blankets are smile and so convenient. I love your budget, brilliant this is way I intend to go. How is Abby doing these days?

[@kyliehoneyman6304]

How exciting! Love hearing about your plans and well thought out budget. The first (and only) thing I have bought for my build so far is x2 Maxxair Deluxe fans. Finding someone to install them seems to be a challenge though - I'm not a fan of heights either!

[@Travelbug68]

See if there is a tool library or a men’s shed around. No use buying tools and drag them around with you. 😊👍🏽

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I could leave the tools in my storage unit when I’m done.

[@TheRubeeRose]

it's an old adage but that doesn't mean that it isn't relevant - IF IT AINT BROKE DONT FIX IT! If you loved your previous setup, nothing wrong with replicating this. However, before I'd put it back, I'd see what materials might be better, etc. Not sure if this is an option for the tools - rental? Concerning Paint - Bunnings/Mitre 10 generally sell paint that has been incorrectly tinted with serious discounts.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Yes, I will be reusing some of the same parts as before.

[@kathleencomyn5228]

Brenna, could you get one of those 280° awnings from Kings that are self standing? They cover the side and the back, and you only need to use the poles and rope's when its windy and they are so easy to open and close in 30 seconds with just one person.

[@EmmEmmm26]

Just don't get a Kings brand. They're heavy, awkward and break easily. The Oztent or similar brand is worth the investment.

[@kathleencomyn5228]

@EmmEmmm26 they are very heavy, but the Darche, Oz, and even the 23Zero are so much more expensive. I guess I was just suggesting the idea of that style of awning, and your budget is up to what you can afford. Maybe she could look into it and trail one for a company like she does her Ecoflow

[@madbiach]

I have a question about the insulation. Why are you not just using the foam board for everything? Is there a reason for using the insulation batts for part of it? Thanks in advance!

[@trishmurray3321]

I'm in Australia and can't use my super for new van. How did you do it? Thanks loving your vlogs most informative. I'm WA also.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I just turned 60 and I am technically retired as I work less than 10 hours a week 😊

[@Dynamics_Watch_Reviews]

What van are you getting? Is it another 100 series hiace like your last van or a different van? Great planning and budget, thanks for the video

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

2016 Hiace

[@Dynamics_Watch_Reviews]

@BrennaLivingJoyfully very nice, love the H200s

[@jazzycool2950]

I have an RV shade from Anaconda which I put on the back of my trailer. I can have the doors open and gives me protection from the rain and sun. Do you still have your shower awning?

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Yes, I have the shower awning

[@jenniebancroft2778]

Your computer came of the Ark with Noah. lol

[@emartin851]

I don't blame you, your van was perfect, so why mess up a good thing? Sorry you are struggling to get your next home, hope to see it soon.

[@T.J-and-Soul]

Exactly, why change something that works. The homeliness is in the decorations and making it yours. A few practical things and anything else can be added later.

[@SharonBlair-p2d]

Bet your anxious...l am such an impatient person...hopefully it will be the next time

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I am very patient person so no anxiety.

[@JimmyCall]

Have you incorporated your artwork with the design of the new van layout, or is that coming once you get the van? Ok you answer this with same as previous van.

[@strawberryroad1347]

Why mess with what works? 😉

[@Wendyocallaghan]

How did u get money out of your super…I’m turning 60 not sure of the process

[@T.J-and-Soul]

Ring up the superannuation company, and they'll tell you. After 58 years old, you don't pay tax on it. You might need to say you are in financial hardship and need a new car. I got mine out due to having cancer.

[@lindabourketempleton4040]

I’m surprised you didn’t have money put aside for emergency fund,and I thought you would have insurance on van

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

You need to watch the previous video

[@elenorlapointe4241]

I didn't realise that you can take money out of super ahead of retirement. I am 54.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

I’m retired and just turned 60.

[@SharonBlair-p2d]

I forgot to ask...how is your dog

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

She is great, thanks.

[@judyoliver533]

Do what’s good for you.

[@BrennaLivingJoyfully]

Always!

[@EllieAussie..]

Exciting times! If you end up using the angle grinder just be mindful that your engine is under the seats, give Abby a cuddle for me 🦘😘😘