Van Build Update with Drifter Vans! Custom Transit Van Conversion | Floor Plan, Features, Appliances

Six weeks into the build, I got to see my van for the FIRST time!!! My Ford Transit is being professionally built out by Drifter Vans and I’m so impressed with what’s been done so far! They kindly put everything inside for my visit so I could see what the the floor plan will feel like when it’s complete.
I couldn’t be happier with the floor plan they created for me! It flows well, feels spacious, and the hallway is nice and wide. Overall, I think it’s going to be super functional for full time living. Having my new home completely custom built is extremely exciting! The guys at Drifter are super knowledgeable and really pay attention to detail. I’m really looking forward to moving into this new rig in April! 🎉
If you’re interested in a custom build by Drifter Vans, head to their website to schedule a consult and don’t forget to let them know Nomadic Sarah sent you! www.driftervan...
They also have a great KZbin channel, so don’t forget to check that out as well @DrifterVans !
Here’s a list of the appliances that Kim and I talked about, along with some affiliate links that help support my channel. 😊
* Espar Heater: amzn.to/3EaD4bq
* Maxx Air MaxxFan: amzn.to/3lIkfG4
* Separett Tiny Urine Diverting Toilet: amzn.to/3XDCCcg
* EcoFlow Power Kits (install video coming soon!)
5kWh: us.ecoflow.com...
10kWh: us.ecoflow.com...
15kWh: us.ecoflow.com...
* Indel B 12V AC: www.indelb.com...
* 130 Isotherm Drawer Fridge: www.westmarine...
* The Wanderful window covers: shop.thewander...
* Bug Wall Insect Screens: www.thebugwall...
* WeBoost Drive Reach Overland: www.weboost.co...
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Loving my videos? 😍 You can support my channel by hitting the “Thanks” button above, shopping my affiliate links below, or www.buymeacoff...
* Jackery: www.jackery.co...
* EcoFlow: us.ecoflow.com...
* RV Snappads (10% off): www.rvsnappad....
* Harvest Hosts Membership (15% off): www.harvest-ho...
* Waggle Pet Monitor (55% off): waggle.refr.cc/...
* WhereSafe GPS (10% off - NomadicSarah): www.wheresafe....
* Weigh Safe Hitch (10% off - NomadicSarah): www.weigh-safe...
* Timberlea Wallpaper (20% off - NomadicSarah20): timberleaco.com
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Questions, tips, inquiries, or just want to say hello:
[e-mail] * preferred
www.nomadicsar...
/ nomadic.sarah
'Til next time! 😊✌️
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#vanbuild #vanconversion #vanlife #solofemaletraveler

[@hannathompson7998]

Oh my Kim is charming isn’t he 😉? And the van looks great, how exciting! Can’t wait to watch the progress!

[@dougholdem2898]

Can Do Sarah, Will you be adding an outdoor canopy to your van to provide covered outdoor living space? On another note, hard not to notice that you two make a nice looking couple. But, I think by the way you were looking at the pilot, he's the guy who caught your interest. You're blushing!

[@sherrymeurer]

Just need to say y'all make a cute couple🥰

[@sandrap3047]

Yay, so excited to see this video! The new van is coming along. It looks great! Can't wait to see it when It's finished! Sarah, he is a cutie! Looks like maybe some sparks there! :)

[@BrooklynAlien]

Oak good it's not just me. I don't know their situations but just from the thumbnail I'm like OMG they would make the cutest couple ever lol

[@sandrap3047]

@@BrooklynAlien they would! Subscribers playing matchmaker! lol Hope he's not married!

[@BrooklynAlien]

@@sandrap3047 lol yeah, hope not! I haven't watched all of it yet. I'll keep an eye out for a ring.

[@sandrahand5338]

I saw the sparks too!

[@jojoinrancho320]

They were sitting awfully close to each other at the end. 😘

[@SmokyMountainBlessed]

it cool you got to see your van in process and make a decision about the lagun table option

[@barryread3672]

Awesome Sarah. Definitely want to see the interior design video! Btw, my Mom and one of my sisters were nurses, plus my Dad was a surgeon. My hat is off to you for helping others.

[@lisak.9007]

Hi Sarah, I am a brand new subscriber to your channel; the first video I just saw was when you sold your Airstream. I vote yes on videos on working with your designer!! I am just three videos in and love your channel! Thank you, Lisa 💖

[@regenamatlock2551]

Please let us see the inside as you design it. Sure it’s going to be beautiful. Hope you use color an not just natural colors can’t wait

[@jackrolfson312]

I'm glad you finally took the time to go out and see that, that's very exciting! Sounds like they have thought of everything for you. I expect that I can say this for all of us, can't wait to see the finished product! Stay healthy be safe!

[@binghamcamps]

Great video. Love the content! Looking forward to the finished product.

[@timothyryan6947]

Great video! Yes to a video on the interior design process. Tim

[@laurahoekwater4167]

Yes, need to see the finished design. Looks amazing

[@sherik233]

Heck yeah on an interior design video! Fun to watch this come together. I might be reaching out to Drifter Vans in the not too distant future for a van build of my own!

[@jojoinrancho320]

How about a cover for the drawer under the front of the bed to be used as a step stool?

[@herpiggy4857]

You are going to be so HAPPY when your van is completed! I can’t begin to guess just how excited you are with this build. Looks like your life is going to get just so much easier. Look forward to following the progress on this project!!! Enjoy and stay safe.

[@fbr65]

16:32 those Wanderful window covers are great! We just got the cab window covers for our DIY Sprinter van

[@sherigrant1298]

Yes, I would love to see the design!!!💙 Congratulations!!!!💙

[@wanderingwithwellness]

Interior design - I vote yes!! 😂 Thank you.

[@shannonking6328]

I think this is the best, most upgraded van conversion plan I've ever seen, plus the van itself is beautiful!

[@larkendelvie]

Ooooh been waiting for this -- I want to see a detailed view of all your design options. This looks like it was so much fun to go through the process.

[@BrittMFH]

Looks like a great floorplan and I can't wait to see it progress AND the interior design! I'm considering using Drifter myself thanks to you! 😻 Britt

[@stevenscott6715]

Super cool, can’t wait to see more van progress vids! Thanks Sarah.

[@heatherthenomad3]

I'm obsessed with this design! Brilliant. I can't wait to see how it's all going to come together.

[@lilivicordero8077]

Looking good already..so excited for you❤❤

[@juanikelly3005]

If I can’t wait to see your van, I can’t imagine how you feel! Congratulations Sarah!

[@davidfase7095]

I thought I was subscribed but had to subscribe to your channel. We have a lot of Health Professionals in the family and have a liking to those that travel to help those in need. Really nice van build. I can't wait to see it done and reviewed. Be safe and thank you for your contributions to the health industry.

[@roserocker62]

WOW Sarah… I’m so amazed & impressed with this video . I never knew this was possible . What a beautiful home your going to have for Roo & yourself . ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@mt.sylvania9218]

Very cool, like it! I’d suggest having Drifter add an external power port so you can feed supplemental solar power from portable panels if needed. Not sure how much storage room you have but perhaps an Ecoflow 400W portable panel would store for you and double your solar or dry camp in shade and put panel on longer cables. I use a Renogy 200W hard sided suitcase/waterproof/ w/ cable and Kryponite lock. Great you are pioneering a couple of things I haven’t seen before: 12V 5000 BTU A/C and the Ecoflow stackable RV batteries. Is the A/C only A/C or a heat pump so you can also get heat?

[@Butterflies.and.Tulips]

This looks SO awesome for you and no more unhooking and hooking up the airstream! I’m excited to see the final product!

[@grayeagleswolves]

Hi Sarah and Driftvans Thank you for doing this van and build I am so happy for you to get this and can't wait to see the final product Drift vans yall are awesome I want to post you for content on my page to get more business for you

[@errgowego7649]

Luv your floor plan…I’d copy it for sure. But I think I would have a raised frig/freezer with side openings, then storage drawers under the fridge unit. Can’t wait to see all the custom interior design! Very exciting 😁

[@Gam1928]

New subscriber…Thank you for sharing your journey! Love your personality and outlook on life! You are a natural with all of this☺️

[@bettyjorodgers8552]

Thank you

[@TheSmdl]

Nice. You definitely need that big a water tank anyway. I knew Kim was French right away. (Fellow French here).

[@Mary-kc2gg]

Can’t wait to see the interior design process!!

[@soniakolesar6703]

Love hearing about your new van build 👍

[@Judie1960]

Mega upgrade indeed! You've really thought this one through! You're going to love it. Go Sara!!

[@deborahogburn7080]

Please share the interior design process. Excited for you!

[@libbybertrand9320]

Definitely want to see the interior design process!!!😄

[@Elaine_Jim_McGuire]

1.) Love the floor plan. 2.) Yes I would like to see the video on interior design and your selections. 3.) Hes a cutie

[@stargirlofantares9053]

That’s soooooo awesome!!!! Definitely want to see the interior design video!!! Are you kidding! Gotta see your style!! You’re so tiny, that bathroom total works for you! Love your floor pan & Rue gets her cubby!!! Just so excited for you & really only losing your closet. Is 3 small cabinets enough? Can’t wait to see more! Love your channel! ♥️ Jessica

[@leonardcroft1467]

Nice .. Looking Forward to More Updates !! Good Luck 👍

[@lisaellis5951]

I would love to see your interior design process!

[@buellrod]

Pretty excited to see the final product as I'm sure you are I have never seen the inside of one of these or how efficient they are

[@GK49245]

Lovely details, which will make this your home. So glad you are working with them. Enjoyed the tour. Thanks for sharing.

[@carenphilemon6045]

Would definitely like to see the interior design process!😁

[@DavidSmith3750]

Ty for taking me along this journey I’m so thrilled for you this is awesome. You’re doing a great build I’m proud of your accomplishments

[@RobbieHerrera]

That's a beautiful build. Looks like you found the right people to create it for you.

[@jaynepearson187]

I’m lovin this design. You can already tell it’s gonna be super awesome.

[@shellybielawski1773]

Lookin fantastic I think you are going to be crazy about this when its completed. Be sure to show us the interior design also. Thank you for sharing this with us. Love 💕 you!

[@MsMariaSierra]

Congratulations!!! Can’t wait for updates and then your journey! Yes, please design updates!

[@drcorrigan]

Definitely want to see a video on the interior design. Very excited for you. Looks great so far.

[@craftytraveler9238]

I am so excited for you. Your van will be epic. Yes I want to see more details about your van build.

[@nicolekinkade6701]

So happy for you! They seem like an awesome company to work with. cant wait to see the results!!!

[@billjones6106]

Your van will be awesome.

[@WeekendWandering]

I'd love to see the interior design process! And I'm really looking forward to seeing the finished product!

[@DavidSmith3750]

Of course I gotta see more in in for the Long haul. Maybe see ya on your travels some where sometime.

[@susanpratt3290]

This van is going to be awesome, and so much easier to get into parks and various areas, and no more having to hitch/unhitch. I love the dark blue cover and it is tall inside. I know you will enjoy this van/home. So happy for you, and Kim seems very nice and knowledgeable. My middle name is Kim too. I use it more than my first name, (which was so common in high school), and also love the name Kim. Would love to see what you picked out for the interior designs. If you have a video for that, I will watch it.

[@dianesandberg6884]

Hi Sarah, I’m enjoying your videos. I would very much like to see your decorating videos.

[@titatruth3991]

Wow 😳 wonderful!! ,🥰🥰

[@grayfox9911]

It's starting to look good!

[@SteveSacramento]

That was very interesting! Thank you for sharing.

[@be.kind.to.animals]

What an interesting process. Thanks for sharing 👍

[@JourneyswithJoy]

That's gonna be a pretty sweet setup! I can't wait to see the end result. :)

[@brock7118]

Great Job! Giving me the itch to get a van! Looking forward to the next video ✌🏻

[@scottfrost47]

FYI. We had a coleman stove catch on fire inside a camper many years ago. Strongly urge a more well tested interior stove choice.

[@NomadicSarah]

Thanks for the heads up! The stove was one of the hardest decisions that I still go back and forth on. The beauty of not having a stationary stove in the countertop is that I can easily change my mind and switch to a portable induction stove if I choose. Now that I got an extra EcoFlow battery, induction is a much more feasible option.

[@BrittMFH]

@@NomadicSarah I second induction! 👍

[@annettemills2399]

We also have a totally electric custom van. I love it, and I love my induction cook top. I actually have an induction range in my house too. Sounds like you will have plenty of power. We have less, and still can use the cooktop off grid. We have a bug wall screen too, and love it.

[@dizzydean8689]

Iwatani makes a solid portable stove

[@veeemit9719]

When do they estimate finishing your van?

[@rla510]

Yea Sarah!! Love your vids and your new van!! Will be out on the road soon myself.

[@pianogirl3870]

Go girl! Exciting!

[@tomassanesson902]

Sooo awesome cool van build 👍❤❤❤🤘

[@lindasteinbrenner8065]

Yay!!! Have been waiting for this! Looks awesome! So impressed with the heating system w/o having to adjust for altitude. And that electrical system..🤌🏻! So so impressed! 50 gals. Fresh water!! Did I miss hot water heater? Looking so good. Also what a cool accent that guy has and cute! Yes, for sure I would love a interior design video. So happy for you! ❤

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you!! Yes, I am stoked about the Espar and power kit as well! We are going all out for this build! And you're right, we forgot to mention there will be a 4 gallon Bosch water heater. 😊

[@lindasteinbrenner8065]

@@NomadicSarah I think that’s such a nice choice on the water heater. Oh yeah.. you are not skimping or cutting any corners. Good for you. ☺️

[@rickbyo8643]

Wow ! Looks amazing !!

[@lorichaulk5583]

Can’t wait to see end product

[@maxgiii_beach_street_photo7161]

Very nice

[@stacyhackney6100]

It looks good.

[@doodlethebeagle2078]

👏👏👏 Congrats, happy for you

[@nomadicgoddess3648]

I'd love an interior design video but also I will love a complete breakdown on how much it costs for your van and build! I wish more people would be transparent with that instead of talking around circles about what they paid for it

[@NomadicSarah]

Hi there! Drifter Vans is quite transparent with their pricing on their website. If you click through each model, it shows what is included with the build and even breaks it down by the type of van. Don't hesitate to contact them if you have any questions about build pricing! www.driftervans.com/nomadicsarah

[@sarah-sillz]

I'm so excited for you and can't wait to see how it turns out. I'm really interested in getting a van for myself in the next 1-2 years but am having hard a time finding actual prices on custom builds like yours. I understand, people don't want to talk about money, but it would be really interesting to see a video on the cost breakdown of everything.

[@NomadicSarah]

Hi there! Thanks for the video request, I'll definitely consider it! In the meantime, Drifter Vans has their pricing listed on their website. If you click through each model, it shows what is included with the build and even breaks it down by the type of van. Don't hesitate to contact them if you have any questions about build pricing! www.driftervans.com/nomadicsarah

[@sarah-sillz]

@@NomadicSarah Thanks for the reply! I have looked at the Drifter vans site but I was curious about yours because it is so custom and more like I would be looking for. :)

[@doloresgarcia7585]

Looks awesome.

[@be.kind.to.animals]

Love the van. So excited for you and Rue

[@1markymark1]

Absolutely

[@peterreynolds5327]

Thanks for sharing your build process! I'm interested in seeing how the Ecoflow unit pairs with the indel B, there's another KZbin van builder that recommends using an AC powered air conditioner with the Ecoflow Power Kit, indicating the the Ecoflow's 12V is underpowered for air conditioner units.

[@NomadicSarah]

Interesting! Would you mind sharing the channel name?

[@jdierberger]

@@NomadicSarah kzbin.info/www/bejne/nKS2hoN_Z7-afNU see starting around 4:28

[@NomadicSarah]

@@jdierberger thanks so much!!

[@rhusolo]

Hi Sarah. Rick from Vancouver Cdn. Love your videos. Thanks for sharing your adventures. I needed a project so I am doing my own conversion and your information is very helpful. Just wondering if you could tell me what make the 50 gal fresh water tank is and where I may be able to source it. Thanks again

[@terriwilson511]

Question how will you travel to and from work. I’m curious if you will be able to park at your place of business. This build is awesome.

[@aaronriedel5372]

I'm legit excited about the finished product!! Very curious about this monster electrical system you're getting and how it performs!

[@NomadicSarah]

Same here! We will create a video about its capabilities when I move into the van in April. 😁

[@TwiffaWV]

Get Waggle for your van too! It will protect your pup.

[@NomadicSarah]

Already on it! I brought it to Michigan and gave it to my builder! They are doing a lot of custom stuff for Rue. 🥰

[@VanVuong27]

Great build! Where did you buy the 50 gallon wheelwell fresh water tank for the Transit? I can't find one so large.

[@TheMerryMedium]

What a cutie!

[@TRAINSUP1]

👉🚐👍Wow if I were to get another van 🚐 I would go custom and wouldn’t be a Mercedes. 👊 Later

[@Momster89]

Coleman stove is not a great idea. Go for the induction. You can find ones that are portable.

[@NomadicSarah]

The great thing about the stove not being stationary in the countertop is I can change my mind and switch it out for an induction stove instead!

[@libbybertrand9320]

Very excited to see the finished product! How much longer until completion?

[@NomadicSarah]

It should be ready in April!

[@hctim96]

Did you ever sell the Airstream? New subscriber here, Tnx for the updates

[@NomadicSarah]

Yes, it is sold. 😊

[@briancusyk8293]

What kind of toilet is that? Will you have a black water tank? I’ve never seen a van conversion with a black tank before!! If so, can you tell us the black/gray tank sizes? Awesome looking van so far and looks very comfortable and self sufficient.

[@NomadicSarah]

Thank you!! No black tank! Gray tank is 20 gallons. Here's my toilet: separett.com/en/en/urine-diverting-toilet-separett-tiny-with-urine-tube

[@valsomeone2180]

I don’t think i would have given up airstream. Vans just seem so cramped to me. If I was you, I would have rented one to see if you liked living in one so you wouldn’t have buyers remorse later on.

[@mahstar3515]

Have a wood stove to be more independent

[@marionladdwilliams5003]

Been following for a while because I am wanting an airstream. Why did you decide on a custom order rather than an airstream or winnebago model already in production? I'm not asking in a negative way just curious. There are so many options already being produced.

[@marionladdwilliams5003]

@@dutchessdoolittle7477 thanks I must have missed a few

[@NomadicSarah]

I decided to go custom so I could have every aspect of my van tailored to my lifestyle! It's been really great getting to pick out every appliance and detail that will suit my needs the best. It will also feel like a cozy home due to the custom interior design versus feeling like a cookie cutter RV!

[@marionladdwilliams5003]

@@NomadicSarah thanks Sarah I look forward to seeing it completed and your continued adventures

[@paularandall2798]

How much longer before you get it?

[@NomadicSarah]

April! About 2 months!

[@susanwagner9443]

Do you have an estimated finish date?

[@NomadicSarah]

April! 😊

[@hank1527]

I don’t recommend Coleman stoves. Poor quality. Check Camp Chef or portable stoves that can use both butane and propane gas.

[@jonathannewman6144]

Starlink internet?

[@NomadicSarah]

Maybe eventually... It's just so pricey!

[@jonathannewman6144]

@@NomadicSarah Actually not too bad once the upfront cost is paid as you can stop and start your subscription as needed on a per month pay-as-you-go basis: "Starlink provides active coverage. $135/mo with a one-time cost of $599 for portable hardware. Starlink for RVs provides the ability to pause and un-pause service at any time and is billed in one-month increments, allowing users to customize their service to their individual travel needs." So good to have if you know you will be out of cellular coverage for around 1 month+

[@judithcatlett8518]

Where’s the security and most important of all, where’s the TV?!

[@NomadicSarah]

I'll get into security in a future video. And no TV for me! I actually removed the one that came with my Airstream.