FINALLY! Last Minute Preps before the Big Trip

[@overcomeinone8371]

Slim Potatohead one of the preeminent narrators on youtube. God bless you.

[@vonrollveeg]

I've been waiting avidly for this! I had some surgery and am stuck in the Pacific Northwest and unable to travel (currently in the deep freeze 16 degrees Fahrenheit 😃which is unusual for my area). Now I can live vicariously through you!

[@allanmumby]

Excellent as always Slim, take care and may 2022 be a better year for all of us

[@orapronobis2149]

September 30, 2024, Maryland, USA: Dad is from Pekering, and when you noted what was in your cooler, I just smiled. He would mention the beer from Canada. Visiting me once in Texas (he was in the Army ). Well, he asked before I returned home to get him a six-pack. I was so proud to pick what I thought was the best, or was it the packaging? So, you guessed it, it was Coors! I know he also spoke Portuguese, so I could not understand what he was saying!!! Then he decided to go, and our military store had Canadian beer! As you can imagine, I am not a beer connaisseur! Then or now but enjoy watching you rate them. Dad has since passed so this brought back a very memorable time for me. Thank you.

[@alfamaize]

Slim, an idea I saw on a different vlog to keep the battery warm was to use a tank heater blanket- those are low power, 12V, and supposedly have thermostats. So while you are driving, it will get the 12V from your car, and it will keep the battery warm enough. Have a great trip!

[@danreed7889]

Or use the electric blanket

[@herblapp6134]

I think Slim is smart enough to know that's a gamble as it uses power and he doesn't have much capacity. Now he's added abt 1500 amp-hrs by adding the Jackery (lm assuming it's the 500 unit) and (the larger black 12V lithium. He's only got 2 solar panels (abt 200 watts) and travels in cloudy weather since he does some off season camping. I have 700 watts solar on the roof of my 6'x10' WeeRoll cargo trailer rv charging 4 6V deep cycle golf cart batteries. I camped early Dec in eastern shore MD for a week. I had some challenges...treed sites, cloudy weather n the low winter solar angle. He's got abt 250 amp-hrs between his 3 batteries.

[@Ramal121]

Yes a 12 V heat pad will shorten the time to be able to charge. You can size it so the solar panel will run it directly. Some batteries have this built in but you can roll your own. Just need to switch the heat pad to the solar panel and when the battery is warm enough switch back to charge mode. Slim is clever, sure he could figure this out.

[@qpoole90]

I bought a rv tank heater for 40$ on amazon and I have it on a switch and it has a thermostat built in. It draws 50W when it’s heating. Works amazing!

[@marionsutcliffe1119]

@@qpoole90 do you find that the automatic on/off temperature thresholds are good for this purpose? Reading the product descriptions it seems that it stays on until temp reaches well over 60F ...

[@antoniobaez6282]

Yes, Merry Christmas Slim 🤶 🎄 I really like that retractable badge cord idea!

[@lustraveller717]

You definitely are the MacGyver of RVing! I love the retractable key ring idea for your fridge. I've enjoyed watching what you are doing to your cabin but can't wait to see your travel videos. Stay healthy and safe travels!

[@n2cable]

Happy days!

[@baronistheone]

The hand warmers sound like a great simple idea, but I think for my primary heating source if planning lots of cold weather and lots of solar input would be a 12v heating mat and a temperature controller (for use when charging) that supplies 12v to the heat mat until the battery box/compartment is warm enough. You might also think about a DC-DC charger to use some of the unused energy from your car alternator to charge/top off your trailer battery while driving (in which case you would also need the low temp battery protection). Welcome to the U.S!

[@herblapp6134]

Yes a low temp battery safety is an absolute necessity for Lithium ion. You have to becareful Slim purchased a cheap Chinese made and many don't have a low temp or hi temp sensors....that's why they're cheap n US are more expensive. Will Prowse reviews on his channel Li-ion batteries especially cheap Chinese imports only a few have the safeties or use grade A batteries that produce the juice they advertise. Buyer beware.

[@claire_A-T]

Slim, maybe you could wrap the electric blanket around the battery. Hope your trip is as smooth as can be.

[@projekt6_official]

They do sell battery warmer blankets - just have to figure out what size to get.

[@coreymerritt7742]

Hi slim you can get a small electric heating pad to go around your battery that has a built in thermostat good luck on your trip hope you had a merry Christmas 🎄

[@ronniemanuel6287]

They're made to keep rv water tanks from freezing

[@coreymerritt7742]

@@ronniemanuel6287 I’ve seen some guys use those I know that the new battle born battery now comes heated also could build a insulated battery box

[@jwagnermail]

Build a insulated box around the battery - or place it inside a small cooler (the kind that is thin Styrofoam ). Then put the battery inside with the heater, like the ones used to keep RV tanks from freezing. It should not use much power, and you only need to turn it on when it is cold inside the RV.

[@herblapp6134]

I thumbs dwn the Battleborn htd lithiums as they're quite expensive especially for Slim's frugality.

[@NancyfromCanada]

Wanted to wish you luck and a great trip! Keep us in the loop! Can’t wait to see how you get along! Nancy from Canada

[@jimmyjenkins9240]

Good morning Slim! Looking forward to your travels. I always enjoy seeing things through your lens.

[@virginiatolles1664]

I'm so glad you're here, Slim. The changes look good! Enjoy your trip. Keep us posted. Merry Christmas! Happy new year!

[@SistahRev]

Slim, you are one of those rare KZbin content creators whom I enjoy no matter which stream of your interests you focus on in a given video. Camping? Check! DIY projects? Check! Travel locations? Check! Cabin rehab? Check! Nature& scenery? Check! You do so many things enjoyably, excellently, and engagingly, and I appreciate the poetic, humorous, and cinematically appealing- and quite often breathtaking- way in which you do so. Looking forward to witnessing your upcoming journey south to my part of North America (I’m in the U.S.- Philadlephia, Pennsylvania), and wish you safe, enjoyable travels and rich blessings in the New Year!!💐💐💐

[@lindabishop7656]

Hey Slim👋👋👋👋💙,I am a vegetarian for 48 yrs now....yeah for me.....I love your videos, channel... thanks for being you. Truly. I will continue to be enjoy your progress in life.Peace and Love my friend.💙🖖

[@user-nv3kv2ir8s]

I love ur pictures of the green bottle and the other over it love it thanks for u do we want to go camping so we see u and u do it for my family be safe we care for you thank you Bonnie Dozier calera al

[@azxp]

Love the inexpensive inventions you always seem to come up with. Fridge slide is brilliant!

[@robertalexander9931]

I can tell you put a LOT of thought and planning in everything you do, your videos are a prime example. They are great and Ilook forward to watching them! Safe travels and adventures.

[@jeffhoward9186]

Slim, I have noticed that you are a few degrees off North and I finally figured out why… You are a lefty, 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣 just kidding. God bless and safe travels. You are a man who loves traveling and being in the outdoors. Thank you for sharing your travels with the world.

[@IdahoSnake-A-Drain]

Thank You Slim :-) It was a great year, I love the daily struggle with the added "Oh Well" attitude. Makes me smile.

[@MrLangDog]

Your enthusiasm for getting on the road has got me excited for you. Looking forward to the on-the-road videos!

[@CriticalRoleHighlights]

Every single vanlifer/camper should utilize cargo netting to the max. I've seen so many of them complain about not having enough storage or being forced to be economical/design with storage space in mind. There's generally just as much space in the ceiling as on your floor, if not more. Use it.

[@gilgillenwater5910]

The "Bean dip" episode is one of my favorites! Happy New Year, Slim- I look forward to more videos!

[@paulrichards2713]

Glad you are getting back to traveling again, I used to have my motorhome packed with everything I needed for a couple weeks. My health issues keep from traveling now but do enjoy your videos.

[@lauracox2018]

Slim, I don’t usually enjoy detailed camper tours, but yours are absolutely entertaining!! You are so inventive, organized, and creatively prepared. Thank you for sharing! Welcome back to the US. ❤️

[@carolleenkelmann4751]

Nice and well organised. That's my "Slim". - Full of ideas and implementing these things so that they are super effective and video informative. Slim never fails.

[@hopeheavenonplanetearth1417]

Wish you were headed to Arizona for RTR before Florida 🙏. Travel safe! My home base is in Florida… I’ve never seen so many people traveling down. Winter is a busy time, but it has been crazier than usual! Arizona will be crazy, too… but a lot more fun 🤩

[@JDOff-Course]

Cool projects and solutions. I think moving the light to the center of the table was great. Make your showers less restrictive. Safe travels!

[@glenpeacock3330]

You have a great skill at designing and implementing solutions. You must have been an engineer during your work life.

[@GrahamRead101]

I get a great deal of pleasure in doing "the little things" that make something/easier/better/safer to use (or cheaper!) - so it's always interesting to see the small changes you make. Safe trip "down south".

[@elizaklein1611]

my husband and I ordered a trillium and hope it will be ready in June. thank you for the information and inspiration, and safe adventures to you!

[@OldFellaDave]

Merry Christmas Slim!

[@onlysmiles3419]

have a great trip Slim !! looking forward to your new adventures!!

[@patsykluting-lucas3804]

Hilarious Slim. Remind me to never eat your BEAN DIP. Safe travels 🎄✌

[@hgj2019]

Great video Slim! Thanks! The AAA is a really good idea. For your viewers I will add that I have found the “Premier” membership to be well worth the extra membership fees, especially when traveling in remote western US areas. The enhanced membership has several benefits, but I have especially enjoyed the longer allowed tow distances.

[@Sandpipercom]

Slim, do consider upgrading your trailer hitch light plug from 4 wire to heady duty 6/8 wire, Gnd, brake,left, right, night, plus 2 exta, one for an external backup light on rear of trailer, and one to the truck battery for 12 volt power when you drive, to lightly or trickle charge the trailer batteries or for you eg. run a 150w 12v electric heater 13 amps to heat the trailer as you drive. 48 years my dad who was an electrician did this on our 18 foot Citation trailer, as no solar panels back then, he charged the trailer batteries while he drove us to each remote campsite, as no power hookup back then. Used a current regulator and a relay to the ignition switch, so power is cut off when key is Off. We also used the built in gas lanterns for interior lights connected to the propane tank, to save battery power, as no LED lights either. No CO2 monitors back then just cracked a window open.

[@herblapp6134]

Your Dad was a real Macgyver who had the experience n smarts to do that. I have a physics degree but learned more from helping my dad, a WWII Navy machinist mate. There are YT videos for doing that using modern switching devices. But wiring with proper size cable for the long run is tricky as at 12 volts the dc currents can go really high and set smaller guage wire like even No 12 on fire. I wouldn't recommend doing that if you are the occasional DYI'er.

[@ReflectedMiles]

The best part about the arrangement with the solar panel stored at the front window is that, when the lights are on in the trailer, you can charge your battery. 😊

[@meganwildt2481]

Best video i have seen in awhile about van/camper life. We got a good tour of your set up, we got a bunch of helpful tips and a list of things that you didnt like and how you changed them to make it work. And the video didnt start with a 5 minute "make the most attractive coffee we can".

[@clarebrant5305]

YAY... A new video. 😁👍👌

[@SandraOrtmann1976]

Looking forward to new adventures. And Merry Christmas to you. Seems you are really well prepared...but of course there is always room for improvement.

[@richardthomas1743]

Good morning slim! I wish you all the very best with your winter trip ! Also wish you the very best for 2022 , Happy New Year !

[@h.b.4058]

Hi! Two quick things. I got a good quality hot water bottle (1.5L) with a thick fuzzy cover. I've found I can get away with putting ~ 190°F water in it. That helps warm up the bed and then stays warm for a long time. The second thing would be to look for a DC tank or battery warmer. (Like a stick on sheet) They are pretty low power and can keep the lithium battery from freezing, especially if it is in an insulated compartment. It is so nice to be able to use the higher percentage of the battery capacity with lithium. Safe travels!

[@awhittick6228]

The Alberta Forestry Trunk Road misses you! It's an emptier experience when there's no chance of spotting your trailer tucked away along it's nooks & crannies !

[@bill72pa]

As a mechanical engineer I really enjoy your ingenuity and problem solving with all your little (and big) projects. But please, never invite me over for some bean dip after seeing your serving bowl. Happy trails!

[@patupham6134]

Just want to tell you that I been watching you videos for the last to years and they really are good because they are real no pretending or playing with camera tricks: My husband (passed) but we use to camp with 7 kids and dog! I miss that so I guess that’s why I enjoy your videos, look forward to you trip to USA. Patty

[@SlimPotatohead]

Thanks Patty. Best of the New Year to you! SP

[@Open2OpenUT]

Hi Slim, Happy Christmas and New Year! I’m so inspired by your videos and wish I had your little camper to go exploring myself. You have utilised every inch of space, it’s incredible the way everything fits into the nooks and crannies. I’m glad you took the shelf down in the shower room, I always thought it a nuisance, you will have to pin a small strip in its place to hold shampoo etc. I’m excited to see your new travel videos in 2022. Stay safe out there and thanks for bringing us along. Regards from Jenny in Dublin, Ireland 🇮🇪☘️☘️☘️

[@Daz555Daz]

I upgraded to a drop-in Lithium battery for my 1999 VW campervan. It comes with a battery management system integrated into the housing and is also Bluetooth enabled with an accompanying app for your iPhone or Android. It is an absolutely superb upgrade but living in the South West of England I rarely have to worry too much about freezing temperatures.

[@annekerr1729]

With you in spirit on your trip Slim! All the best from Australia!😎😎😎🇦🇺👏👏👏👏💗👍👍👍👍👍

[@niceteg]

Good luck!

[@karenholley8356]

Love that sleeping bag with the migratory fowl! Just suits you, Slim!

[@herblapp6134]

It's great as l purchased one based on his recommendation....it's made in O'Canada!!! I'm a Yank but luv Canadians. 🤗

[@karenholley8356]

@@herblapp6134 After watching his vid, I immediately went on Amazon looking for one just like it. Disappointed that I couldn't find one! You are lucky you got one for yourself.

[@pauldean3935]

Slim, or, as I like to think of you, Mr. Potato Head: The cabin is totally fascinating, and thanks for taking us along on that wild ride. That said, it really feels good to watch another one of your camping videos! I've been watching your stuff for a few years now, but you've never captured nmy loyalty more than when you documented your prep for USA filling stations that only stock Coors Light! I almost spit out my fine AZ microbrew laughing. Thank you so much for the wisdom, inspiration, and entertainment you provide, and keep up the great work! -a MN boy in the desert-

[@christinae30]

Everything was interesting, but I especially liked the shower improvements!

[@garychristison5773]

Impressed by the badge holder repurpose. You have such logical modifications. Looking forward to following your travels.

[@faithrada]

I continually marvel at Slim's ingenuity. Thanks for sharing all your various adventures.

[@1cosmocat]

I can hear Willie singing 'On the road again' as you pulled away. Safe travels.

[@orapronobis2149]

Yeah, my 5th day of running into your channel and having a blast with all the incredible travels even through your travel during Fiona and more challenges that you set the human spirit high for us to see also that we seem to be challenged but we can with inspiration from an individual such as your self the times have gone back to the days we thought so out of the box and surviving with the class as you show. I agree with the removal of the shelf with light where your pop-up shower will be. Great work and definitely you motivate my own day. Stay well.

[@harrietmanuelito1703]

Looking forward to your travels 😊

[@ruraltraveler8652]

Very well organized and for sure good beer is the most important 🍺 cheer’s have nice safe trip. Looking forward to your videos 🇨🇦

[@sueg2658]

Have a great time. I enjoyed watching all the creative tips.

[@marilynrenaud1892]

Love all the tweeks you've done to the trailer. You are so well organized...love that. Hope your trip is smooth sailing and that you have a wonderful time. Love all your videos... you really are an intelligent guy. Safe travels SP! 👍👍👍👍👍😁

[@claramullen]

Hi Slim I hope all goes well on your trip here in the States and you have a wonderful time.

[@qiforlife_daniel.samelson]

I was impressed by the work you did on the cabin and happy for you.. we travel as a family for 2 year's now , still have the travel bug..but restrictions mack's it slow..now stck in georgia Europe..hop to travel with a small van .. thank for sharing and inspiring

[@landonashby2029]

Couple other options for your LiFePo4 Battery. 12v hive Heaters stuck to the bottom of a 1/8" Aluminum Plate and attached to a thermistor for a DIY build. Or RV black and grey water tank heaters.

[@herblapp6134]

I'd love to see a YT video on making that and learning how much current it draws. 🤗

[@adrokk2515]

Made my day to see that your are back out on the road. I travel a lot as well and it certainly a challenging time for sure..however, we can't live our lives in fear forever. Just be safe and prepared...it's the best you can do. Happy travels!

[@contrafax]

Challenging times indeed. A new Slim video always makes my day.

[@shawneeb3771]

I like the new imprvoments they make things better. The light over the table is a lot better for you. Have a safe trip and Stay safe.

[@jimwhiting2267]

Be safe, Slim and thanks for including us in your adventures. I agree with you about Coors Light!

[@doncarlton4858]

I like the updates on the trailer! It was also great to see what you bring for the education of all of us. Safe travels!

[@r8edrv4fun65]

The bean dip comment might be lost on newcomers... but I LoL'd 😁

[@JohnsVintageRoadBikeGarage]

Great channel! Funny, you can use your toilet for your bean dip in an emergency. Something about beans and a toilet that gross me out! lol Thanks

[@colleennorris8402]

Safe travels! Stay healthy and I look forward to all your videos.

[@jaynecobb5774]

SWEET!! Potatoheads getting out and going again!! SAFE but still going!

[@geraldhenrickson7472]

If it goes below freezing and i am traveling i just keep my lithium battery in the passenger footwell of my truck. Also I modified where I keep it when in use to inside the heated trailer. LiFe P04 batteries are extremely safe, not at all like the typical lithium-ion battery. Stay warm and happy Slim!

[@herblapp6134]

Great practical work arounds. Cheap n safe!

[@azclaimjumper]

Thanks, Slim, for taking your time, effort, & equipment to bring lil ole MEeee up to date. I'm enthralled with your interior tweaks. Those HOT Hands warmers are advertised to last 10 hours. My personal experience with them is 5 hours. Warm Regards from Reno, Nevada

[@thewanderingpinto5979]

Safe travels Slim! Soon I will be on the road heading south as well.

[@carolemckibbon4586]

The further south you go the warmer it will be. Nashville TN Christmas day, 76 degrees. Will be in hi 60's all week then hi of 45 on Sunday. It is good to see that you are well prepared. Have fun, safe travels and I am looking forward to seeing your new videos.

[@timcomer262]

Hey Slim, thanks for the update. As far as your Lithium battery... it's OK to store it in freezing temps. It is also OK to draw power from it while below freezing. You are correct about not charging it when below freezing. If the battery has a low temp cutoff on the BMS (battery mgt system) it should prevent charging when below freezing though I would just disconnect any charging system when in freezing temps. Otherwise it is a great battery to have and will charge with your solar system (assuming you still use your original Epever charge controller). Hoping to see your travels soon and stay safe! There are other ways to work around the low temp issues like bee hive heaters but I wo't go into that for now. Knowing your tinkering abilities it might be something you could look into in the future.

[@herblapp6134]

Great advice. I will share one caution. You mentioned his controller. I saw that video but didn't remember the brand name. I use Victron MPPT controllers on 2 circuits ( l designed the first for a 330 and 100 watt panels. I added another 330 panel later n needed a separate controller as the added panel went ovr the capacity of my 30 amp controller) Controllers can't simultaneously charge both a lead acid n Lithium ion. The charging program profiles for each is different. One has to becareful going beyond a simple solar installation as it can get tricky especially for nonteckie type folks.

[@FeedScrn]

Real nice trailer Slim. First time I've seen it. I like all the rounded corners.

[@piusbayo7278]

Nice to have you back .

[@andrew81632]

Great video slim. I've never seen a battery tear down of that brand, which I suspect won't have working cold temp charging shutoff. A lot of cheap brands advertise it but they don't work. IF you aren't planning on using the trailer the first few days, shut off charging or you'll likely destroy the battery unless it's above 0. I'm using an SOK battery and will be building a heating system for it for our Canadian winters. Good luck on your trip, love your videos.

[@herblapp6134]

Andrew you've been round the block a few times.on Lithium batteries. I've added comments above after you wrote this trying to flag the same concerns!👍

[@user-oc6qs1po3j]

So I know they last longer but if there such a pain in cold weather why mess with them?

[@doingitwithnothing]

Careful as you travel but do enjoy… we wait your postings

[@robertphillips3893]

It is always good to see your new mods. Safe travels. I am catching up on your videos.

[@GreyHak]

Thank you for getting the alternative cereal and supporting the strikers.

[@marianfrances4959]

Bean dip...check!✔ -32C in Southern Alberta today! Good luck and thanks for the pep talk on getting comfortable with traveling again. Happy trails!!!!👍🇨🇦📷🌞

[@CosmoWeems]

Thanks I wired in my Jackery to my trailer. I can switch between the AGM and the 4 Jackery units I have. Best wishes for safe travels. =Cosmo

[@herblapp6134]

I just watched your video showing your arrangement. You have a mechanical electrical switch to ho to the proper type so both aren't in the circuit at the same time . As you noted your arrangement is likely not DYI unless you really know electricity basics.

[@CosmoWeems]

@@herblapp6134 Yes I can switch between the trailer AGM and the Jackery which is exactly what I need. =Cosmo

[@Nerd3927]

Those changes will bring you heaps of joy every time you use them! Have a good trip and stay safe!

[@deltas4114]

Merry Christmas, Best wishes for 2022. Travel safe, keep warm for the winter.

[@theresatruax3846]

Safe travels Slim!!!! Love the content!!!!

[@TheOrdinaryGamertag]

Hope you enjoy your visit here Slim! Your always welcome here in the US of A

[@northerntranquility1614]

Excellent improvements, especially love the rollers for the fridge great idea I will be using that thanks Dale

[@juanitagreenspan5412]

Safe travels and enjoy!

[@cyberi4a]

You are the most 'think out of the box' person I know. How many people would have thought of a retractable ID holder to use on the fridge cord.

[@Discover_E1983]

I can't wait for your next video!!! I have been following you since the beginning period And I cannot tell you how much information you have given me being a full-time camper. I love your ideas and Innovations please continue. I am from Michigan and I am currently winter camping. I live in my camper full time. And I have gotten so many ideas from you it has really helped us to keep going your videos help us a lot. I can't wait to see your next video and I always check out your others as well period keep on keeping on and we'll be here right with you. Thank you again! Eric Melonas (Ludington,MI)

[@tbx59]

The tinkering videos are the best videos

[@38below39]

Drive safe, Slim . and have a good trip...

[@markattardo]

Safe travels! In case you're already here, welcome to New England. If you need to buy supplies besides food when you come across the border, New Hampshire has no sales tax.

[@kathyowens9901]

Finally! Safe travels and see you soon.

[@carmie5881]

Have a safe trip Slim and get boosted on your way. Love your adventures.

[@clipsfromcherie]

I'm always so happy to see you post up a new video.