The Realities of Living in a Volkswagen Transporter Campervan

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Go to drinkag1.com/thosehappydays to get started on your first purchase and receive a FREE 1-year supply of Vitamin D3+K2 and 5 travel packs. Thanks to AG1 for sponsoring today’s video

[@colinlarby8003]

put rubber bans around your spice jars

[@manolisgledsodakis873]

Put a foam strip behind your spice jars. I'm wondering if your tracker system will work in the USA or will you have the insurance problem all over? Something to check. Anyway, I think the Westphalia is a brilliant choice and you'll love the auto gearbox when you get used to it. It probably shifts down when you go downhill without throttle. As for the gooseneck lights, turn them to reflect off the roof.

[@elfred8821]

@@ThoseHappyDays Hi Guys Is that a long wheel base VW ?

[@bumblebee-mygt867]

No it's a long wait for an update😂

[@amandatester2538]

I'm worried about them. No message and no video for 2 weeks! 😢

[@JanetGraves-t8s]

As a veteran camper van user you are going to definitely need the thermal screens in the colder months. They are also good in hot sunny weather too, for keeping the heat out! Try sliding them behind the seats. You’ll be experiencing extremes of weather across the pond.

[@JanetGraves-t8s]

….or you could hang them on the wall in the bathroom. Another tip, look at fitting wall/ceiling mounted nets anywhere there is space.

[@veganvocalist4782]

@@JanetGraves-t8s GREAT idea 😃

[@jackieandtony7108]

We love this van ❤

[@SuzyQ334]

I'm sure I'm not the only THD fan who is missing your videos. Hope all is well Liam and Janine - please come back to us! xxx

[@lizp7248]

Yes, I hope all is well with you both too. No pressure for a video, if poss, just let us know you're OK.

[@sarahcartier3393]

Me too, not like you guys not to let us know if there is no upload or a change of schedule.

[@gemstonegirl1084]

Automatics are so much more relaxing to drive, I would never change back to manual. It’s lovely to see you both happy with your new home.

[@DMAC1301]

Yeah, once you get used to it you’ll be fine.

[@bridgetthompson2068]

I cannot understand the difficulty driving an automatic. Just remember you only use one foot and tuck the other out of the way until you have got used to it.

[@johnhow3624]

Yea forget your left leg when driving an auto, also is it petrol or diesel if its diesel it will probably need the fuel additive so a supply of that ,if its petrol no need to bother but learn how to treat the DPF filter. Still don't get the right hand drive to go to USA aren't they left hand drive over there???

[@NumericalCounts]

Set your knee free with DSG.

[@lottie2525]

@@bridgetthompson2068 I did exactly what Liam did, slamming my foot on the non-existent clutch which was actually the brake, just because it's so 'automatic' to do this when you're used to a manual car. It really freaked me out too. 😜🤣

[@miaG3226]

Second Sunday without a video !! I hope everything is OK? A quick message would be great.

[@diannblakeblake9340]

Couldn’t you store the blinds under your mattress, they are very flat and obviously you can pull them out before getting into bed. I think you’ll need the blinds when you experience adverse weather, and you don’t like the cold Janine. Best of luck.

[@esrAsnataS]

Came on to say something similar. Just chuck them on top of the bedding during the day. You only need them when the beds out anyway.

[@Trekon2]

Great video and a lovely van, and you will from time to time try to change gear forgetting its an auto, great shower and bed, we just need to see how you get on with cooking a full dinner, enjoy your adventures 👏👋

[@josimpson7999]

Totally agree, and was going to comment the same. Having experienced US freezing winters, the insulation provided by these blinds will be absolutely invaluable. Don’t leave them behind - whatever you do.

[@christinewood8331]

Same thoughts

[@orangeskythinking]

Also those made for blinds will probably have some insolation features.

[@Industriconial]

As someone who swapped frequently from auto to manual and back again... the easiest thing to do in an auto is press your left foot against the footrest on the left of the footwell. It will remind you to just use your right foot.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Good tip thanks

[@patti4785]

​@@ThoseHappyDaysmy friend told me to sit on my left leg, it worked ❤

[@CooperDog-t6q]

@@patti4785 🤣 good idea, in 🦘 land we drive on the left side of the road too.😃

[@mrcoolsun3142]

Or tuck your left leg behind your right leg - you'll soon get used to it and eventually it becomes second nature, I drive a manual here in UK for 10 months of the year and an automatic in US for 2 months (have done for a number of years) and find no problem adjusting now.

[@bonriver9420]

Since my vehicle was a manual transmission, I had a hard time whenever I had to drive an automatic. To solve the problem, I would extend my left over to the left as much as possible (North American vehicle) and it would keep me from hitting the brakes constantly. I still prefer a manual over an automatic any day. You have to pay attention to what you are doing or the vehicle will stall so I think it is much safer. Plus it is so much more fun to drive.

[@ben1895]

Put elastic bands around your spices to stop them rattling 🤘🏻

[@hfern125]

Great tip- will do this, thanks!

[@mycatspethooman5590]

What a great idea 💡

[@joannebarrett1837]

Sleeping in a small van throughout the winter you might appreciate the thermal window covers in the cab. You will get lots of condensation and will lose lots of heat otherwise.

[@susantickle3556]

Liam when your driving an automatic vehicle, forget you have a left leg , you use your right foot for the accelerator and brake .

[@josimpson7999]

Exactly. When I first drove an automatic (in the US actually) they reckon if you sit on your left leg it makes it easier to get used to just using your right leg.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Great tip thank you 😊

[@Livewellwithtia]

This is exactly what someone said to me when I got automatic. Now I just move my left leg completely id never go back to manuel now xx

[@Jordan_ZX6R]

Keep left leg tucked behind right and your be fine lol

[@CaroleHarding-j1t]

@@Jordan_ZX6Rsame advice I was going to give 👍🏼

[@jacquelinehudson8376]

We keep the thermal blinds above the cab on top of the bedding. They really help keep the van warm during cold nights.

[@nigelmulvee994]

Product to use to stop noise from spice jars use anti slip matting and cut to size and its easy to clean when need be. Great to see your happy both of you.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

@@nigelmulvee994 great tip thank you

[@markandmichele3299]

Hi Guys love your new home, just one thing when Liam had his shower he didn’t open the vent above his head. You really must open this vent because you do not need damp in your van. Cannot wait for your adventures to start best wishes .

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you, will make sure its open for every shower now

[@paulhorton5594]

I love it when you Liam said every time you walk back to the van you love it even more , I’m so pleased for you both and so excited for when you go to America see you next week .

[@ThoseHappyDays]

😊 thank you

[@karenwatson4801]

Congratulations on your new home. I definitely wouldn't ditch those blinds. You'll need them in the winter but also in the sun. Slip them under your mattress or on your bed.

[@Ann-lz7wx]

Absolutely love Janines excitement for finding a place for the storage jars, so real ❤ wishing you happy and safe adventures in your new home 🚙🩵

[@theobotha1009]

Lovely van, but personally think the bed is going to get claustrophobic for permanent living. I could be wrong, but see as time goes on. Auto is so nice to drive, I have an old Bedford, not all the mod cons, but reasonably comfortable. Happy travels.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

It's a similar bed set up we had with Morgan and that was fine...sometimes the cosier the better

[@theobotha1009]

@@ThoseHappyDays except when it is like 40 or 50°c 🤣🤣🤣

[@LifeistooshortCK]

We always think the learning phase is the very best part of a new vehicle. Loads of head slapping moments as you discover even better ways to exploit the space. Great fun watching you going through this 😁👍

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Ooo definitely! First couple of days are the steepest learing curve 😂

[@tarey05]

Aww . . it's so nice to see you two traveling and living in a beautiful luxury van at last with automatic transmission, wide seats, good storage, practical thermal screens, a hot, generous shower, and a comfy bed with an American flag duvet! What more could you ask? All you need are some red, white and blue jammies to match ur tea kettle and you're all set! Stay adorable!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

@tarey05 haha great idea 💡 thank you for the lovely comment again 😊

[@paulinehiggins8239]

Going to the loo a problem during the night and pillows fall to the floor. I’d sleep head up the other end. GREAT van guys, so happy for you. 🥰

[@nikitiliakos497]

As an American, I was so happy to see you didn't get an RV. That would have been too big to drive comfortably even here. I think you guys found the perfect solution. Congratulations!

[@jampam-jf8mt]

Where are your solar power stations and solar panels? You definitely need them as a tiny 100-130watt panel on the roof won't be enough to charge much.

[@normanamey9828]

We have the same bed and roof layout in our Westfalia Nugget. It is designed to have your head at the end of the bed with the lights and skylight. But we find it so impractical, mainly for getting in and out of. Our kids sleep in that bed and for them to sleep at the other end means they are not disturbed by us still having the lights on down below. Also, look at Remis fitted blinds for the windscreen and cab windows. Not cheap but far easier.

[@thinkfirst9464]

Spice jars. Put an elastic band around them. Good luck with your new home.

[@paulamartin2740]

Snow & Curt are a couple doing exactly the same as you two but in reverse, USA to Europe shipping over their van. Their channel is well worth looking at, they have a huge amount of experience. Good luck. ps forgot to say KZbinrs Snow & Curt

[@-jz5mm]

Janine are the blinds thermal? You need to get your head around where your going and the vast drop in temperatures you'll be dealing with

[@jpennturner]

You need those thermal exterior blinds, they prevent condensation on the windscreens, the internal ones dont work so well.

[@Yvonneb_]

I'm so pleased you got things sorted. My heart dropped when you said you couldn't get insurance. Hope you both continue to love your home xx

[@jacquelineharper5811]

Tuck your left foot behind your right foot, it's a stop and go using just your right foot. Happy days on new travels.

[@kjh789az]

No! This is dangerous. Do NOT do this. Place your left foot on the foot rest and use only your right foot to brake or accelerate. Yor muscle memory will soon develop! Have a great trip.

[@casitacindy461]

once you have driven an automatic you will never go back. the secret is to use only one foot for your foot pedals. when we spent months over in GB driving around we couldn't believe all your cars are not sold in mass automatic shifting. congrats on the new van, it looks great!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you and you're probably right 😀

[@darren_anscombe]

So, so happy that you got everything sorted for your next adventures, can't wait to see them all. The kettle thing made me chuckle out loud. You know you've found your perfect match with the little moments like that. Congrats !

[@markplenty2631]

The DSG box is an automated manual. There’s a computer that does the clutch for gear changes so that the power is smooth. Tip is, forget you have a left foot.. on the gear control, there will be a + and - symbols for you to change gear yourself by pushing the lever to the left or right. after a while you’ll get so used to it. Just remember that after 38,000 miles the gearbox oil has to be changed.

[@derekmcfadyen127]

Mackie auto transmissions glasgow !..... expensive bu😂t they are the no1 experts 😂

[@markplenty2631]

@@kabukidreamboy only if treated badly, as with anything, if you look after it and you don’t buy the 1.6tdi dsg then it’s an ok transmission, there’s been many types of dsg so some are good and some not so but the one they have in this vehicle will be fine.

[@marykeatley6595]

If all else fails, read the instructions I’m really pleased for you. The van looks great.

[@vivienogden9916]

Our water tank is 80L, it lasts 4 days with washingup, hand washing and daily brief shower for us both, can go 5 days if we need to. Use a tea strainer for washing up water to stop food bits clogging the pipes.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

That's great to hear! Thank you for taking the time to let us know

[@natalielee4091]

I’m often swapping from manual to automatic vehicles just plant your left foot down on the floor and don’t use it and continue using the right to accelerate and brake ❤ love the van ( also try and keep the screen cover it’s going to be useful in cold climates )

[@barryjames186]

Cracking van, but I’m surprised you didn’t get a van with air conditioning? Especially going to America? That’s going to be interesting content 😊. And you’ll need the blinds! All the best 😎 It’s a newish van that could still break down!

[@barryjames186]

@@kabukidreamboy I thought Liam said that it doesn’t have AC?

[@matthewH6763]

BIG TIP!! I have banned and cut my head so many times on the sharp corner that drops down on sides of tailgate. Can I suggest you make some rubber bungs to slot over corners?? Otherwise, be prepared and take a first aid kit.

[@mkdons22]

I've never hit mine on it

[@nigelfenlon9035]

I hope you're both OK as there's still no new video up in over 2 weeks. As always love and prayers from ireland❤🇮🇪🙏❤️

[@petercornish9903]

Pie-window for no pie. Automatic where you don't need to change gear. I thought I was the only one this daft. Loving it!

[@janethealan6150]

We always sleep with our feet facing the narrow end, otherwise the ceiling is to close to our face, really it’s what works best for you! Love the van 🤗

[@christines34]

Im so pleased for you both, I agree with a couple of comments about keeping the thermal blinds, store on/under the bed, they will be used at night, keeping you warm and giving you privacy, you can always use a curtain for any short term needs, so have both I say. THANKS FOR SHARING ❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Tip taken thank you 😊

[@Gardentheearth]

Sooo excited to be with you on your new adventure ! Thank you for sharing your journey and LOVE the new van

[@lawli56]

I'm disabled so I've driven automatic cars now for about 12 years. When you come to a stop you must keep your foot on the break when in drive or it will creep forward as you've found out. Apart from that you just put it in drive, obviously R is reverse. When you stop it and turn off the engine you need to put it in P (park) and it needs to be in P or N (neutral) to start it - a safety feature. The first time I forgot and it wouldn't start I panicked until I realised what was happening - nothing comes on and it will be completely dead. It took me just a few days to get used to not changing gear and now I absolutely love my car. It does feel a bit odd at first. It's a Skoda Roomster which has a Volkwagen engine with 7 gears with a dual sychronised gearbox and the gear change is so smooth you bearly notice it. Having driven older autos with fewer gears I definitiely prefer this one. It's also very economical on fuel and has been extremely reliable. You should call yours The Tardis because it's definitly bigger inside than it seems at first glance.

[@lawli56]

Oh and one thing I forgot. You need to put your foot on the break when you change into different modes or it won't allow you to change.

[@marktaylor9678]

most vehicles have electronic brakes that you can activate if needed,,,,I have a automatic so when I come to stop I can push the brake peddle down take my foot off the peddle ,,,the vehicle doesnt move until I push the accelerator again

[@lawli56]

@@marktaylor9678 Mine's a 2011 so it doesn't have that feature.

[@johnnyb6564]

Those beds are brilliant. My wife and I rented a VW campervan to tour the NC500 last summer. Neither of us are small people and we were expecting two weeks of lousy sleep. We were wrong. The technology, design exceeded our expectations. So comfortable.

[@lesleythomson2823]

Could I ask what did you hire please ??

[@gaildonnelly4777]

Both are like children on Christmas 🎄 morning the smile on your face 😊 love it. Keep smiling. Love ❤️ the video.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

🎅 ❤

[@johnpatrick5869]

Once you get use to automatic you'll never want to go back to manual,LOVE the videos ❤

[@mkdons22]

I prefer manual esp pulling out of junctions. Got a 1 sec lag on auto that feels like forever

[@clairelewis5008]

Definitely keep your thermal window covers get some compression straps for your bedding and tuck the blinds up there

[@fringedwellermccatintyre730]

I am SO excited for you guys, and I'm gonna keep being excited with you all the way along, as you make more discoveries and adjustments. I also want to thank you for taking us along as you settled in, finding places for this and that, (I thought too, how great it will be to have a pantry and want to say you'll probably end up putting another set of labels on the tops) It amazed and surprised me how honoured I felt being included on the settling in! ❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Ah wow, comments like that are so welcome thank you so much ✨️

[@graemesaunderson4218]

That`s a beautiful van that you guys have bought.I love the colour and don`t worry about it being automatic as you will find that on a long journey that it`s a lot easier than a manual gearbox .Happy glamping ahead for both of you.

[@JoyDivision88]

I had never driven an automatic until last year when I was offered a test drive in a Nissan Hybrid as we were getting a new car. Within a hundred yards I knew I wanted one and found it incredible. I would be totally gutted if I ever had to drive manual again.

[@franksyUK]

I Really enjoy your videos! I am being evicted from my wee cottage in the highlands and have bought a Mercedes bus to live in full time! I have even started to video it for YT! thanks for your inspiration! God bless

[@beckymerry2209]

Another bit of security when you’re asleep in the van . Put the seatbelts threw the inner door handles and do them up . Stops the doors being forced open from outside

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Ooo not heard that one before thank you

[@mrmobsi527]

Much easier to just lock the van, but make sure you disable the internal movement alarm first (there will be a button for this, on our van it's next to the interior can light).

[@annealognon7262]

@@beckymerry2209 brilliant idea thank you

[@jeanetteloiry8066]

Just love the matching kettles. Your new home is amazing. Thanks so much for taking us along on your adventures. ❤

[@jacquelinestravels]

Only just had a chance to watch your video and was going to say the same about storing the blinds but everyone seems to have the same idea lol . I couldn’t help but feel excited with you as you properly moved in to your beautiful new home . Xx

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks for watching! And appreciate the comment too 👍

[@casitacindy461]

when showering open the skylight. if it opens then the steam can escape and prevent mold build up.

[@janbedpan6822]

I’m so thrilled for you guys! I wish you more wonderful adventures which I can enjoy vicariously, through your lovely selves!!!

[@SteveBanks-pk9rb]

Put elastic bands around your spice jars to stop them from rattling ❤

[@mrskint55]

Nice to see that you are both loving the new van ,safe travels to you both.

[@celiasnyman2885]

How about using one of those nets that you had inside the previous car as a 'headboard' while you're sleeping. So pillows will not fall off to the car bottom while you sleep.

[@DMAC1301]

I’m so excited for you guys! I think you’re gonna love America! It’s sooo big that anywhere you go it’s different,

[@paulinehumphreys8780]

So happy for you both! Try bubble wrap on your spices. Automatics are definitely better to dry! We love the colour of your new home and your kettle. You might like the mats in winter, extra insulation etc. looking forward to watching next time ❤

[@garyhillman4993]

Don’t forget to just use one foot on the peddles Liam or it will be like an emergency stop every time you brake !

[@debbiemorris7814]

enjoy every minute of your van and travels,cant wait to see your journey.

[@ruthkirby9277]

The joy on your faces is beautiful 🙂. Glad you have something really nice finally, well deserved💙🚙💙

[@jan9562]

Plastic spice bottles wont rattle and will save on weight/ fuel.. And try using ziploc bags for extras to fill from or store larger amounts eg whole dried oregano plant. (Label well).

[@bonniejackson1321]

So glad for you both. A joy to watch you exploring your new home.🥰

[@josimpson7999]

The Stars and Stripes bedding is brilliant! 👏🏻 SO very pleased for you both. When you said you had difficulty getting insurance I thought here we go again - you two are most definitely jinxed! But glad that wasn’t the case and you’re all sorted. Good luck with everything.

[@lyndseybeaumont7301]

I’m so happy you are pleased with your new home. Many happy memories to be made now xxx

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you we cannot wait. Really appreciate you commenting and watching 👀 🙂

[@Mark-nr4mg]

I did exactly the same thing you did when I got to drive a automatic van. I did a emergency stop on a road. Luckily there was nothing behind me. I was also thinking the clutch was there. So I kept my left leg out of the way although, and it was fine. Thank goodness.

[@stevebennett6727]

When driving an automatic just imagine that your left leg is cut off and you only have a right leg. Happy travels 👌🏽❤️

[@bettyboopz24]

What a lovely home Janine and Liam. So happy that you both found something so nice to call home. I look forward to your American travels xx

[@44buddhist]

I absolutely loved this vlog. To see how excited you both are, and the gratitude you have for those small things that make such a difference is endearing. You are both so adaptable and most importantly, so in love which means you are totally in tune with one another.....the kettle choice demonstrated that perfectly. I love watching you both and am grateful for all that you share with us. Happy travels lovely people.

[@despinamitsou7258]

Hello from Rhodes, Greece. ❤❤❤ So happy about your new home. I truly wish 🙏 for your adventures to start with no more heartaches. Love you both 😘😘😘. Hugs and kisses.

[@lesleydonnelly2622]

It's so lovely, your happiness shines through. Good luck the journey begins 😊

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you so much!

[@elise503]

You only use you right foot to drive an automatic!! Put your left foot on the foot rest and leave it there!

[@susie5668]

That's awesome. Guys, thank you for sharing and pulling a smile on my face 😊 see you soon take care your new van is amazing 🎉❤

[@janetrossiter134]

Great to see your new home. Can't wait to see all the new adventures you will both have. You are really living your best life's 😊 Enjoy

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much!

[@PaulDavidGatford]

You will get used to it gentle breaking don't be aggressive with the breaks and you will be fine remain calm and positive then you will succeed

[@susanowen5505]

I know exactly what you mean. Every time I go out on Tigger, my bike, I have a huge smile 😃

[@kathybutler881]

OMG, so happy to see you over the moon with your new home, it looks gorgeous . Have lots of fun & looking forward to seeing you on your new adventures x

[@bevgrant611]

You will love the auto box, just use your right foot only and you'll be fine 🤩

[@Sk-ie4qn]

Soooo pleased you love it guys. Enjoy your new home. ❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yes! Thank you!

[@davidthescottishvegan]

Another amazing adventures & trouble vlog of Janine & Liam's life. It was unfortunate about the campervan not being insured against theft without a tracker but thankfully it is a easy fix. Have a lovely Sunday and week ahead. Love 🥰 the vlog and love 💗 Janine & ❤ Liam.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Have a great week David 😀

[@howardeastman311]

It's so nice to see you excited, your like two kids in a sweet shop. Great content, love the van. Have a great week! Ps I come from Brighton and yes it's great town!!! Cheers Howard xx

[@davidmarshall5596]

Well Morgan/ Berlingo + 2, looks like you're organised in the new campervan & it certainly looks very spacious & fits the criteria perfectly 👌 😊🎉

[@sairhug]

I already thought highly of Janine, but the mere sentence "Too many pillows!" has elevated her still further 👍😃. I don't understand those people with pillow-geddon on their beds.

[@gearlab734]

I'm pleased you two have got a reliable van now. And nice to see you both looking so happy, after all the difficulties before with the engine going wrong on the old van.

[@cherylprice1790]

Have you thought of Southern Ireland? I am staying there at the moment, and it is truly breathtakingly beautiful.

[@mrmeg01]

Its lovely to see you so excited and so happy x

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you 🙏

[@jacksg1809]

Hey glad ur figuring it all out ... Just to say I bought an oven for my shepherd's hut which is a low watt one designed for caravans etc and I have used it . I got it off Argos next day delivery for £65 a great buy imo .

[@lindajames7759]

That universal two taps on the window for your husband to open the door without words ✌️🙏🇬🇧❤

[@Audrey-mh1pq]

Thank you for sharing your excitement! Its intoxicating 🤩

[@margaretwilkin2242]

Great video guys...wishing you many fantastic adventures in your lovely new home on wheels. 🥰❤

[@andrewkedian7244]

Hi guys love the new van you both have have work so hard for this you both are going have some good time s you come a long way from a ford 07 van i i have watched you for 3/1/2 year s you both have a lovely week 😊😊

[@BreakingBadwithWalter]

Awesome van guys, little tip for the spice jars, put elastic bands around them to cause a bumper, good luck, and keep smiling 😃

[@philipday8601]

Very pleased to see everything working well in your new home, congratulations 🎉

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much! 😊

[@tinaciccarello1023]

OMG!!!! The Flag bedding brought tears to my eyes!!!! As an American there is nothing more meaningful than the beautiful symbol of our United States and all that it represents!!!

[@marinakaplais]

Aww so wonderful to see you both so excited. Have a lovely time settling in. Xx

[@geaknol]

The van is beautiful and so nice to see you happy after all the problems you’ve seen with Morgan. Many happy travels❤

[@Michelle-ub9dg]

I really like your new campervan. Am just catching up with all your videos and really enjoying them. Spectacular scenery in so many of the places you have visited. Your homes on wheels have always looked so cosy and homely. I am really looking forward to your adventures in America. Thank you so much for sharing your lives and travels. Michelle x