Van Life Essentials: I Bought My Favorite Things for Living in a Van on Amazon

This is part 2 of my Gear List Series in which I discuss some of my favorite things that make my life better as a nomad on wheels. None of them are essentials, I covered those in the first video of the series. These are things I've tried and found worthy of spending the money and losing the space in my tiny little home.
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Thanks for watching!

[@nancynightingale6267]

For anyone who is a van dweller: Wool is your friend. At Goodwill or whatever thrift store you come across that happens to sell wool blankets, BUY THEM UP ! Wool blankets will insult the heck outta window, floor, YOU ! Wool blankets over rubber matts on a van floor where your little feet step on, you will not feel the extreme cold. You may not feel much cold to your feet at all. His Down Alternative boots, however, is a great idea, too. Rubber matts: Home Depot or Lowes probably has those office entryway matts. THat's what I'm talking about. If you need to ExActo blade them to fit, do it. THey insult and sound barrier all at same time. Then, when dirty with sand/dirt, pull em out, shake em, hose wash them down, dry them (of course....no dampness inside dwellings!) and there you go.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for the tip Nancy! How do you clean them?

[@motherofchaos5519]

I think you mean *insulate* rather than insult, right? 🙂

[@matthewronson5218]

*mats

[@Manerva1973]

Will is not my friend as I'm allergic to it. Is there a will alternative?

[@thelegend3798]

@@motherofchaos5519 Wool can be very insulting.

[@josephcampese5347]

Bob, I work outside year round in north east Ohio. I found the Road Pro a couple years ago. It's changed my winter lunch break many, many times for the better. To be able to have a hot lunch when you've been battling ice and snow all morning, is a huge improvement. So with my bona fides in place, fyi. Place a damp paper towel in the bottom of that Road Pro, then your aluminum bread pan insert filled with food, cover with aluminum fool. The Road Pro will turn the moisture from that paper towel into super heated steam. I think you'll be very happy with the results.

[@debireginabroughton9982]

Good to know !... thank you...

[@Yashua2Rule]

For my apocalypse I'll keep coming back to this channel right here to get the best advice. Go Nomads go!

[@johninwi3994]

Great video. I have been using the Road Pro for 3 years now. I use it all the time at work. I have cooked salmon and potatoes, lasagne, hamburgers, hot dogs, leftovers etc.. you name it. Best way to use it is to buy the little aluminum bread pans that fit inside. Can get the pans at walmart and dollar stores usually 3 in a pack for about 1-2 dollars. Put your food in the pan and cover with tinfoil. Put about a quarter inch of water on the bottom inside the road pro. when it heats up the water steams the food perfectly inside the aluminum pan and when you are done you don't have to clean the inside of the road pro. Either wash the pan out and reuse it or throw it away. Sorry I do realize you had the pans in the video I was just explaining it for others.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks John, that's all good info, I appreciate it!

[@campgoerOne]

A suggestion...to keep feet dry and warm in addition to your slippers...wear a good pair of wool sock.. Walmart has awesome wool socks! 👍

[@cadykyst1234]

When I was about 12, my mother baked 2 loaves of whole wheat bread in just the sunshine, on a picnic table in central Oregon, in August, with that same style of Coleman Camp Oven. it had a thermometer on the front and really was up to the job, even without the stove that day! great memories. ..

[@CheapRVliving]

There is a slight learning curve to learn the in and outs of them, but once you have they work really well.

[@CheapRVliving]

Jim, I have a global sun oven and will do a review coming up.

[@nielknox]

Thank you! Just watched this in Grindelwald, Switzerland Friday, June 9, 2023

[@DeeSova]

Love your videos!! My husband is the cook on our big rig. And we have 2 RoadPro lunch box ovens. We’ve been out here 4 years, going across country. I swear by them. He’s made everything you can think of by using the aluminum loaf pans or oven bags. Roasts, Lasagna, Cornish hens, cabbage and sausage, etc. and you’re so right about driving down the highway and at the end of a 2-hour drive....depending on what type of meal you’re cooking, it is on! Perfect for truckers, nomads or everyday traveling. Thank you so much for what you do❤️

[@onetalentedman2822]

This man knows it all take and use his advice there is no better advice to be found he calls a spade, A SPADE. Ive been on the road none stop for 11 years and thought I new it all but after watching this great traveling guy I now know I only new a little about life on the road less travelled. Support this man he is a true hero amongst travellers.

[@BluefirephoenixJen]

I do this at home because our winter food prices are just beyond. When food is in season whether I'm growing it myself or buying it from a farm, I dehydrate all fruits and vegetables when they''re in season. Now I am using electric to do this and it takes quite a bit of power but I also live in a climate that is extremely wet and humid. In the desert or at altitude if you put the veggies on a black tray with a little fan blowing over them they'll cure well on a sunny day. Same with meat. Salt it first ( to sea water taste. I never measure it), cook it and cut it super thin and then dry it. I find cooking it takes quite a bit of moisture out of it and tastes better at the end and it is probably safer. I use pickling salt, it's cheap and works well. Iodized salt or sea salt leaves an aftertaste ( kinda like low tide smells on a sunny day) The food keeps well and I don't have to jam pack my fridge. It's light and you can smash the veggies to pack even tighter. They're probably better for you than canned stuff.

[@BluefirephoenixJen]

Veggies I have good luck with are squash, kale, swiss chard, green beans, tomatoes if it's a good year for them, and all root vegetables. I use zucchin and summer squashesi a lot so that is one of my primary veggies dry it when it's seeded out and big.

[@barbarakaffel5688]

I just found you on u-tube and love all the stories people have! I am retired and my man will retire in 3 yrs. we are going to do this and your videos are so informative! What I wanted to tell you is all the information you have on the videos not only helps campers but all people that can find themselves with no power or water or any operating facilities like a toilet! I love your channel and continue your awesome journey!!!!!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thank you Barbara, you're right, lots of people can use this info, not just nomads!

[@regenaguinn]

Yes survival-camping or otherwise!

[@petebanning9437]

You should do a video on the tools nomads carry.

[@philkhogg5618]

I love your videos, I live in a converted short bus and I love seeing other people and how they get along on the road

[@jackiemiiers9845]

It's hard to say, but this is my favorite of your videos, and the Bible says," You, (God), knew all my wanderings before I yet had one " , Yahoo ! I'm coming, I feel like I need help to get on the road, but really a hand to hold, and your group through you does that . Thanks for holding my hand.

[@RVFreeDa]

Bought the AZ Book and the booties and the magnets. Thanks for the tips.

[@TexCynRVLife]

l use the Adco window cover on my ClassC. But light does shine through at night, as do inside shadows, so I have a windshield cover covering the inside too. I too made screens for my side windows as you did several years back. Still in use all these years later.

[@haroldfitz5146]

Bob, you are the perfect combination of Grizzly Adams and Burl Ives lol. I'm so glad I found your channel. I appreciate your interviews, your opinions and your product reviews

[@dorethameek5671]

Love your videos Bob!

[@bevwood8210]

hahahaha right on!

[@billa7565]

Burl Ives ??? Nah

[@luciac.419]

Bob you're a nomad genius!! I'm addicted to your vids.

[@cindyc-thedogsandme.]

Thanks again Bob, I wrote down everything you have in this video. It's so nice to have you show what is helpful to have on the road to be comfortable. Great video! Cindy

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks Cindy!

[@slickwillie916]

Merry Christmas Bob, my stomach started growling, not growing in response to the chili dogs, I swear by the booties after 50 years of winter tent camping I like North Face expensive but super quality, keep on trucking

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks David, the Baffins have been superb for me at a very reasonable price.

[@philcapling8268]

Bob, as usual, a terrific job and great ideas. Thanks for all you do for us!!!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for watching Phil, glad you enjoyed the video. :)

[@kevinjudy2210]

My van life GURU...LOVE YOU..starting my life soon at age 64...

[@nmr6988]

What a great list! For me, these items would be preferable to built-ins. That little solar oven in a lunch box is fantastic, and so is the Coleman camp oven. That folding step stool is perfect for anyone's home. I'm making my Christmas and birthday list right now!

[@carltrustrum8858]

My wife and I just wanted to say Marry Xmas and have a very happy new year. Bob, be safe.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thank you Carl, and the same to you!

[@1963yugo]

Hi Bob, One thing I'll be packing that I haven't seen or heard you comment on (yet) is a FIRST AID KIT. I recently bought a small but complete kit from Amazon and added a few things to it from home. I added gear I found when we were cleaning out after evicting a hoarding tenant. He'd been an EMT at one time so I have surgical scissors, clamps, a battery operated oxygen meter you slip on your finger and an oxygen mask. My wish list on Amazon is growing by the day! Light--should my battery on my trailer ever go flat, I have several candle lanterns that I can hang up or set on the counter so I can see what I need too, they use tea-lights, which are cheap & readily available at Dollar stores. But Luci lights are on my list for when I need something brighter. I also have a floodlight that plugs into a lighter socket, giving me plenty of light in case of emergency and the cord is long enough that I can use it to change a tire if necessary

[@filmigs4875]

Very helpful thank you. I especially liked the cell phone signal booster.

[@tonybelisle423]

Thank you so much for opening my eyes I have been asking everyone were to live in the wilderness or nature just like you I am saving everything you are saying THANK YOU SO MUCH

[@barbaramoore8344]

Bob we recently bought our first camper trailer now winterized. Can't wait for warmer weather. You are a great teacher and can reach new and older experienced campers. So much to learn as this is a whole new world to me. Thank you so much for helping others with knowledge you Have learned.

[@CheapRVliving]

Barbara, it really is my pleasure!

[@HolyHubcap]

I absolutely love your videos. Thanks for the invaluable advice you have given me for my planned month-long road trip I am planning!

[@LifeBetweenTheDash]

Another amazing video! Thanks Bob. I would love to see a video on the many benefits and uses of Roybi batteries.

[@CheapRVliving]

That's a great idea!! I should have thought of that!! I live my Ryobi gear!

[@drogonz4117]

Always find your videos informative, thank you .

[@look11223]

So glad to support you using your Amazon link

[@masteringpain5199]

Bob, You are the best!!!

[@mettahuttravels3183]

Fantastic, handy hints Bob, especially for us dudes who are in the process of setting out on the road.🙏🏻🇺🇸🇦🇺🎄

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks Craig, just trying to share some of my hard-earned knowledge.

[@nerdanderthalidontlikegoog7194]

Im glad you mentioned the Coleman camp stove. I have one, I use wadded aluminum foil 'snakes' on the bottom to help diffuse the heat.

[@CheapRVliving]

What a great idea that is, thanks!

[@stringbender57]

Cool gadgets that make life easier on the road......I love them! Thanks for sharing some great ideas. 🚐💨

[@CheapRVliving]

I love to help others!

[@AndreaLKL72]

You're such a sweet man. So kind

[@zopdundee630]

Keep up the good work, your videos of been very helpful on my van setup to test if van life is my passion. Thank you....From Sydney Australia

[@Closertoofree]

Thanks for the information Bob. Enjoy your Holidays.

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks, you too!

[@Ann-jh9bn]

I've got to try the booties! Thanks for the captioning, Bob! I love sharing your videos with my mom. I hope we'll meet you on the road some day. Happy Holidays!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks Ann, the booties are one of my favorite things of all!My camp is always open to you!

[@Sewspcl]

Love you Bob! Thanks for all your tips!

[@woodsmn8047]

years ago I drove truck in the potato harvest...when in the field there are potatoes laying around on the ground...hop out of the truck select a nice spud and put it on the exhaust manifold of the engine...when you get to the cellar in about 20 minutes ...hop out reach over the top of the front tire and snatch the roasted spud off the manifold get up in the cab and break out your lunch box where you have sour cream and bacon bits ect...and you have a great baked potato with all the fixin's....woodsmn

[@cybersecretary]

You do a wonderful job describing things. Happy Holidays!

[@nancynightingale6267]

Windshield Heat Protection: That's an excellent point he just made. If you use something INSIDE the windows, heat is still penetrating the van/dwelling. OUTSIDE protection makes 1000% more sense. Excellent tip, Bob ! You rock, dude ! And, in snow country, all ya gotta do is shake the snow off, and BAM, windows are cleared of snow/ice. I would then put that cover inside a plastic bag and dry it out when you can outside the van later on. Always prevent moisture from entering van at all times. Every little bit of moisture adds up.

[@Idahomie]

A little superglue on the windsheild cover's stitching will really beef-up the stress points...most any stitching on that point. Caveat: always test' a small area when working with super glue on synthetics.

[@athiker7209]

I've had that Coleman oven for over 30 years. For me it works better on a propane burner versus the Coleman stove, because it is so much easier to regulate the temperature with propane. You never have to stop and pump pressure in the middle of a baking session. It's a crowd pleaser as everyone has a smile when they see it in action. Thanks for the tips! I'm a new subscriber.

[@CheapRVliving]

Good advice on the Coleman, thanks!

[@virginiaoverlander4720]

Roadpro also makes a slow cooker or crock pot if you will. As a professional driver I have tested out a few. The slow cooker has a removable reusable liner like a corck. I use oven cooking bags to element the need to clean it. Can be bought at most any truck stop and I use in the same way as the lunch box stove you showed. Check it out.

[@dominiquebt]

Another great video - the quality is getting better with each one! Thanks for more useful info. Happy Holidays!

[@CheapRVliving]

I'm learning more and more about sound and video, I hope you see constant improvement. But, shooting alone makes it much harder!

[@kw2756]

As always, it's a pleasure to learn from your videos. THX

[@mayinnlin1879]

Thank you Bob for sharing! It's so helpful. Awesome 👍😍❤️

[@kathycr1271]

Hello, Happy New Year. I took my first road trip EVER from MA to FL and I was amazed at all of the RV folks I saw on the road and recognized from your videos and interviews. Just solidified that life does go on beyond the mortar and bricks and I am really looking forward to my adventures on the road. Please keep up the good work and Thank you

[@CheapRVliving]

That's great Kathy, lots more to come!

[@brendamcchristy6044]

You are so thoughtful Bob

[@videomagictv6403]

A shout out to ya Bob < MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR> buddy!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks and the same to you!

[@davejohnson9823]

After covid-19 hit and I seen people making a run on food. You got some good info just in that realm. Aside from that I'd taken a few trips and paid about $150 a day for everything including motels. Was wishing I had a van then. Got hurt 7 years ago was almost homeless. Was wishing I had a van. Such useful information on so many levels.

[@Only_positive_vibes]

This was very helpful thank you for this video. I was not aware of these awesome gadgets.

[@gray5627]

Very good list of "not quite essentials!" I have several of the items you have shown, and I agree they really make life easier! I'm not a full time camper (yet), but love your site! Thanks, and keep up the good work!!

[@CheapRVliving]

Right, if at all possible, they are great additions to camp!

[@PaulDGreen-bu4iz]

Merry Christmas to you Bob! Thank you for sharing!

[@CheapRVliving]

My pleasure Paul!

[@jimbarnaby3547]

Good stuff Bob! I can't wait to get there.

[@CheapRVliving]

See you soon!

[@jeanettewaverly2590]

Great ideas and good products. TFS, Bob!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks Jeanette!

[@gypsypants6847]

your videos are seriously so informative. I look forward to seeing you post a new one! Thank you!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks Robin.

[@CheapRVliving]

You are aware this is a new one. I shot and edited it three days ago.

[@gypsypants6847]

yes....I followed you on EN also...lol

[@jojowallace5098]

Luv the RoadPro!

[@Radnally]

Great content. Thanks

[@realtor411]

Great info! Thanks, Bob!!

[@FrugalRVGal]

Great list of items. I am going to get the 12 oven for sure! Thanks

[@CheapRVliving]

I really like it!

[@algray2604]

another good informitive video bob thank you.

[@CheapRVliving]

Glad you liked it Al!

[@KKKKAAAARRRRYYYYNN]

Hi Bob, those booties look similar to Wiggy's booties, best outdoor gear made in U.S.A. vapor permeable synthetic batting with a nylon shell. Your sweat as vapor permeates the material and moves toward the cooler direction which is outside the bootie

[@iamsemjaza]

Walmart in Kalamazoo and Battle Creek (Michigan) had a few of those water containers. So did Meijer, if I remember correctly. Bottom shelf in the camping sections.

[@CheapRVliving]

Phillip, they used to be everywhere but now they are hard to find.

[@iamsemjaza]

Yeah, that's why i thought I mentioned I saw them just last week around here. :)

[@ssuresh8839]

Merry Christmas to you Mr. Bob and to all the Van community people!!!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thank much!

[@johncook1885]

Enjoy your video.Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

[@nocturnal7312]

Same with me !! :)

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks John!

[@triciab3435]

Merry Christmas Bob ! I enjoy watching your videos.🎄🌟😊

[@CheapRVliving]

I love to hear that Tricia!

[@Jeaniesunshine-fb5rk]

Thank you. I'm home bound virus. I love to get all your channel.

[@curiousgeorge555]

Link to water pump? What kind of water pump is best for indoor dish and washing and so on. Great vid's. Love your channel!

[@misstbikini]

hope u do another video like this for that rv’r or wanna be in our life soon, thx bob this is great!

[@priscillawrites6685]

referred a homeless young man to HOWA. He’s living in his car, without a lot of essentials. Hope he reads your website and finds valuable information for his survival. New England is supposed to have a brutally cold winter 2023/24.

[@tonygilbert2373]

Thanks for the advice!

[@vanlifenomadfirekeeper]

That lunch box cooker is real popular with truckers. And it cooks fairly quickly.

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsPals]

Another awesome video! 👍👍 The Zodi shower pump is now $134.

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

So disappointed that the Go pro folding oven is no longer available. Great ideas for camping life. Hope your travels continue to be wonderful 👏 ✨ 😊

[@hiker750]

Ditto on the question about the phone & antenna booster. Thx, Bob & Merry Christmas!!!

[@CheapRVliving]

I went and looked for it and it appears it is out of stock. I hope to comes back.

[@mikereno3933]

Dude you are the s*** I've been a nomad now for a year and you've in my idol bro I live in a 92 Toyota RV and I've seen every one of your videos bro keep it up and thanks for adding the link to all these items it's perfect.

[@naomispantry8590]

Love your videos Bob xox so helpful , thank you 😀

[@larajackson7506]

Thank you for sharing! Take care see you next time!

[@nunurbuisness5877]

I really like that 12v cigeret outlet cooker it's nice and small.

[@jandecourtney4638]

Thanks for the informative video!

[@evelyngarcia4551]

the food heater is awesome!

[@justinevirtue1755]

Bob, thank you so much. You may not see this question. I may not see the answer either. I'll head over to your website just in case. My question is: ADCO makes another windshield cover similar to yours. They call it "clear." It has a front windshield cut-out for seeing out during the day but blocking folks seeing in. And side window cut-outs with screens for ventilation. The cut-outs are held in place with Velcro around the perimeter and roll down from the top fastening somehow. I love the idea of letting more air in through the front windows! The complaints: Some reviewers complain the screen lets in bugs at the bottom. I figure magnets could fix that if there's enough extra material. Others say the Velcro isn't strong enough and eventually fails over time or in heavy wind. I was thinking magnets or other reinforcements could fix that also. Have you seen anyone using these? The Polar White is yours, part numbers begin with 240__ The "clear" versions begin with 270__ . Thank you!

[@CheapRVliving]

Hopefully someone with experience with one will post here or at the forum. cheaprvliving.com

[@justinevirtue1755]

Thanks Bob. I think I'll just go for it and get lots of magnets :)

[@murrij]

As always very informative! Thank you.

[@CheapRVliving]

My pleasure!

[@heartbeat59]

Merry Christmas!!!

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks, you too!

[@josephleister9198]

Another good video. Thanks Bob.

[@CheapRVliving]

My pleasure Joseph

[@wildman6247]

love your vidieos i took a summer off a few years back and travled the country on motorcycle with pop up in tow aspen classic would love to it again someday working on paying off the new bike first would like to get truck camper and do it full time eventually

[@ImaSteamer]

@18:10 The dreaded No-See-Um's !!! My brother has a cabin where the pests get bad. His trick is to spray the screens with Pledge! He says, they can not pass through and you still get ventilation. 🤔

[@RutherfordTony]

Great informative video Bob, thank you!!

[@CheapRVliving]

My pleasure!

[@lloyd67lp]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge with us.

[@CheapRVliving]

I love doing it!

[@kerencollins1548]

Tx Bob. Love all ur information. 👍🏼😜

[@rons3699]

Bob, thanks for another informative video ::)) Happy New Year to you...

[@CheapRVliving]

Thanks for watching Ron S!

[@christianemarshall9691]

Do you have a more recent list? I’m getting all of the old videos in my feed! Thanks!!!

[@judyl.761]

I like you. 🙂. Thank you for this info! I don’t know what to do with the water pump - what it’s for or how it works. I haven’t seen your other videos.

[@JohanlastZa]

Should try to get a hold of old computer hard drives, the magnets inside are awesome and way stronger than those you are currently using, I use them all over

[@33Jenesis]

Thank you for the map recommendation. I prefer to use map. It is a lot more reliable than Google maps when area is sparsely populated.

[@glennkennedy441]

Very interesting stuff, thanks !

[@CheapRVliving]

Glad you liked it Glenn!