Van Life Preparing For Winter

With Winter just around the corner it's time to get prepared! Are you ready?
This channel is all about my personal journey as a Full Time Van Lifer with a dog called Rupert and complete beginner trying to build a KZbin Channel. In May 2023 my landlord gave me 60 days notice to leave my rented house. Long story short, I couldn't find a suitable property to rent. I only wanted a small flat but because I have a dog (Rupert) none of the landlords would accept me. So, with time running out I decided to move into my small Citroen Dispatch Van temporarily until I could find somewhere for me and Rupert to live . After 5 months in my tiny van I decided that I loved van life but needed a bigger van, so I got one! Follow me as I re-invent my life, my work, my relationships and my mental well being.
If you would like to support our channel and you want to be me a coffee or Rupert a bone then please use the link below, thank you
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[@Re-CreatingKev]

@sunris19k wow, what an offer! Thank you so much! Could you email me at [e-mail] to discuss this please? Many thanks, Kev

[@Sunris19k]

If you need help finishing the van give us a shout. I've converted a couple of vans and I would happily help you finish the back for free. I could get it finished in a couple of days. I'll come down and stay in my van until finished.

[@callum]

legend!

[@joline2730]

Sun: where are you based ??

[@Brenda-es3gw]

You rock!!!

[@JasonDudley-b9k]

Fair play good fella 👍✔️

[@BigD12396]

God bless you

[@bigcreator]

I would recommend you join a huge gym with alot of facilities including a sauna over the winter if you have not already, its good for body tempreture and the mental and psyical benefits of the gym plus the showers are worth it.

[@deb7518]

Do, please, get a carbon monoxide detector before you use that heater too much. We'd all hate to lose you and Rupert!

[@BioRuss-qr5il]

Honestly I agree 100%

[@dna6440]

I mentioned the carbon monoxide detector but he has said if he got one

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Deb, I've got one....Kev

[@Rainbow-bj9uj]

Hi Kev I'll drive by asap and give you my dogs dry robe bag. We met when I parked my van near you and I told you my dog Mary has died. She never used it, so it's new. She was a staffie too so it'll fit Rupert.

[@alexbryers9467]

So lovely of you ❤

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, that would be lovely, Kev

[@Rainbow-bj9uj]

@@Re-CreatingKev Hi Kev If you're parked up on the road where I met you previously, I am here now and until early morning. I'll look out for you and Rupert so he can have the dog dry robe to get warm in.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I left there this morning and won't be back for 8 days, that's a shame

[@Rainbow-bj9uj]

@@Re-CreatingKev Never mind. I'll park here again and see you both. Keep warm and dry in the meantime

[@robgregory8067]

Keep strong Kev,,your not on your own,,you have new friends who want to be with you and your progress,,your a diamond geezer. ❤

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Rob, yes, I have amazing support from you all, Kev

[@Allaboutragnarinthevan]

Hi Kevin I’ve just spoken with Mike (raven) about coming down and we can all meet up and help you . From Eric and my dog Ragnar 👍

[@lifeonthehighway6917]

@@Allaboutragnarinthevan Marvellous, The trueness of good British people, Beautiful Steve from Manchester 🇬🇧

[@Re-CreatingKev]

so true....Kev

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Eric, thanks for that mate, I've made arrangements to have the van finished off by another kind subscriber who is coming over next week to help me out. I appreciate you offer mate, catch up soon.....Kev

[@Allaboutragnarinthevan]

@@Re-CreatingKev I’m around if you need help or the other man has forgotten something.👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

@@Allaboutragnarinthevan thanks Eric, I really appreciate it mate....Kev

[@sammyj3048]

I will make sure I don’t skip the ads so you can earn something for the work you do on here. God bless you both

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Awesome thank you Sammy! I always do that when I watch videos on channels that I subscribe to, it really does help....Kev

[@joannacurran8475]

For the bed covers how about extra large towels or bathsheets. They will help doggo to dry out also.

[@RollingBeachHut]

Pipe insulation in the gap in the back doors, the stuff that goes around copper pipes, couple of quid. I've got a poly sheet up covering the whole back doors then and a throw, that's stopped all draughts. If you've not discovered them yet, microfibre towels for drying Rupert, they dry really quick too and not bulky. The side door, if you mean drips and run off from the roof coming in I've made a gutter out of silver insulation tape, not pretty but works. Make sure all the metal inside is covered with silver bubble wrap or closed cell foam before you carpet to tidy up, otherwise it's a condensation trap. I've got a humidity meter and use my heater with the roof hatch open on days i don't need the heater on to control humidity on damp days.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great tips and information, thanks for sharing....Kev

[@johnshaw4140]

For the back doors , a cotton curtain with THINSULATE sewn between 2 layers is ideal on a track across the ceiling with velcro sewn into the top of the curtain and a chain sewn into the bottom , cuts out draughts but is easily drawn out of the way if you need to access the back doors , velcro sewn down both sides is a good idea too . Most dry cleaners have a clothing repair person who can do sewing for you inexpensively Or whoever makes the curtain for you

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for that John.....Kev

[@ronstevens6973]

You know kev living in Australia I can't really comprehend what your winters are like. I think we complain too much here so I just like to say good luck you are a survivor.

[@ASI-l2w]

But then again, we have no idea what living in a van in the Australian summer is like.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Ron....Kev

[@CARNIVOREJIM68]

💯 watched, didn't skip adds. The hardest thing I've done all year. 😂😂

[@Brenda-es3gw]

🙄

[@CARNIVOREJIM68]

@@Brenda-es3gw 😳

[@Re-CreatingKev]

You're the best!...Kev

[@Dirt-Diggler]

Shower cladding is cheaper than plywood 👍 My entire van is lined with upvc cladding then stretch carpet over that 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing that, interesting....Kev

[@mikeclare5907]

There is nothing else for me to add, others have already said what i was thinking, so good to hear of like minded folk. Sincere best wishes Mike in County Durham

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Mike.....Kev

[@Simonboss248]

Regarding the hole on the back doors if you put something flat on the outside and then silicon it up on the inside then take that bit on the outside back off. It give you a half decent finish and then when the warmer weather comes back around just fill it and sand it back and paint it . And maybe couple of smelly candles. If you’ve got somewhere safe to put them. All the best and hope you get all the jobs done you need doing before the winter kicks in 👍🏻

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great ideas, many thanks, Kev

[@paulcridland5230]

You will be ok Kev because you are a fighter and don't give up. My car is now up for sale as soon as it sells i am getting a van. The musty dog smell is worth it for the unconditional love you receive from them :)

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I totally agree!...good luck with the car sale....Kev

[@paulcridland5230]

@@Re-CreatingKev Cheers mate, no luck so far :(

[@TheVanHiker]

Hi Kev, Get yourself an Equafleece for your dog. Will keep him warm and dry. I swear by them for my dogs 🙌

[@leenewt3005]

Get a maxx air fan unbelievably like air conditioning the best investment next to the diesel heater

[@fantasticwildlife3947]

You could add a portable outdoor shower and a bucket for the dog? You could do a few live streams for extra income. Good luck

[@railinly610]

My advice, based on full time van living. It might be a bit late now but here goes. Keep all materials as light weight as possible whilst still strong enough for the job. E.G, side wall lining boards ,6mm (ish) is easily adequate. Also, timber battens ! It's not a structural shed, it only needs small battens, perhaps 1 1/2" x 3/4" . All materials added together contribute to the vans payload. You asked about fabric to line your doors etc. Veltrim. Just saying, best wishes.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, some good advice for us all there.....Kev

[@robwalsh3082]

Thanks for the video Kev. Enjoyed that

[@joannacurran8475]

There is a really thick interling fabric you use with curtains, putting it between the curtains and lining. In UK called 'bumff', the thickest option.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing....Kev

[@user-nt8ck4zg4z]

Maybe where that hole in the back door where a lock was would be worth replacing a lock for more security. My son had his van broken into in a hotel car park in London even where there was a camera was. White vans are such a target. And it would be terrible if it was broken into. An off cut of lino for the floor might help as you can wipe it clean. Another suggestion is a pillow that has arms Sitting on your bed its gives more support I got it from Dunelm its called a teddy bear cuddle cushion. Using it all the time now.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Good ideas, thank you for sharing....Kev

[@marnecrisp1286]

Hey Kev!! Charcoal bricks and baking soda draw odors. I love watching you two. I think you're doing great!!! ❤ from NC USA

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Awesome! Thank you! Kev

[@southhillfarm2795]

Sounds like you have a plan and some good goals for a guy in your position. Quite positive. Looking forward to your progress.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks you, Kev

[@irenegilmour2452]

New subscriber here good luck to you both x

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Welcome Irene, I hope you enjoy....Kev

[@Sub_Divisions]

Kev get some white plastic tile edging from Wickes.....sikaflex it on above your side door to create a drip strip.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing....Kev

[@gillhall7590]

Thermal/blackout curtains are brilliant to keep out drafts a pair, at least twice the width of the back doors, should be good to allow for gathering …you don’t want them pulled taut. You could buy a thin pole and thread it through the top hem…you can take it down easily in summer, or use it to put up a fly mesh curtain. They usually come in black, grey or white, look online or shop around the prices vary. Mats are good option, warm socks and fur lined slippers.a big dog basket with large blanket over, or heavy towel for the dog to get straight into instead of on your bed.get him to sit in it until you dry him off a bit. Libraries have laptop facilities as does Costa coffee. Fairy lights are lovely if a warm white tone…battery ones.try dog walking jobs or bar work. Advertise as odd job man, which others might need. Thermos flask to keep hot drinks. Hot water bottle or 12 w electric over blanket.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing Gill, some brilliant ideas there.....Kev

[@donniblanco5239]

Well done Kev - All Very Positive 🔥👏🏻✨

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, Kev

[@leevan-go8637]

How can I contact you privately to give you some ideas and maybe some help to get you ready for winter. My van build is fully insulated and boarded out on a budget. No heating or electricity yet, so it's still a working progress. If I can help give me a shout.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, thanks for your offer, one of my subscribers is coming over next week to help finish the inside of the van for me...Kev

[@leevan-go8637]

@Re-CreatingKev no problem mate. Love the channel by the way 👍

[@mikeembe1261]

Thanks for your vid 👍 Keep safe mb

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks, you too!...Kev

[@Dirt-Diggler]

Now you have the heater you really need roof level ventilation, it'll help no end with condensation as well, I have 3 roof vents, 2 powered and one passive, the diesel heater will dry the air and push it out the roof vent 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, I've got a wind driven vent that is is permanently open and it seems to work well but I may need to upgrade at some point....Kev

[@Dirt-Diggler]

@Re-CreatingKev that's good 👍 you need high level escape routes for the hot moist air, windows don't really do that good a job as they tend to be lower down as hot moist air rises , you will loose heat but TBH a diesel heater will just replenish it constantly, it a never ending battle of heat Vs moisture, especially with a pet, good insulation helps no end to make sure the moisture can't condense out of the air before it leaves the roof vent 👍

[@UNITGJ]

If you’re going to use air fresheners make sure they’re natural. Toxic smells in a small space is bad for your health. Wind deflectors on your front windows will give some ventilation without the rain coming in.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I agree, I have the deflectors....Kev

[@julieharding6631]

Yes - some are highly toxic!

[@sueworthing3504]

It looks like you've got a bit of work to do Kev. I hope you are able to do it before the cold weather comes!

[@anthonypert574]

Drop full length curtains all way rnd van until insulation is complete got mine from charity shop Makes all the difference

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Yes, I think that's a good idea...Kev

[@cherryrotella3714]

Take advantage of the help offered Kev. Wishing you and your companion a cosy home in the winter months. Greetings from Devon 👋🏻

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you....Kev

[@antoinefleuriot2509]

To keep your van bedding dry with the dog. I would sugest a Picnic travel Blanket With Waterproof Backing ontop of the bed. You'll need to find a way to secure it ontop of the bed as they tend to slide off.If your using a duvet you could put it inside the duvet or a thick tarpaulin.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Antoine, you just reminded me I've got one of those picnic blankets, I'll have to dig it out and try it.....Kev

[@Coolagreen16]

Hi Kev, a really interesting video showing your winter to do list. I just got a diesel heater fitted in my motorhome (I live in it) - it's a game changer, but really this will be my first full winter in a van with my dog. My dog is a lot smaller than yours, can I ask (only if you have time to answer, no worries) why you got quite a big dog? Now, I know you wouldn't be without him, same with me and my dog, 'just curious' about that. Rupert is lovely - much better behaved than my little un btw. ☘

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, thanks for your message, I actually did a video about Rupert and how I got him, you can watch it here kzbin.info/www/bejne/eWWydIWKlrd0msU

[@Coolagreen16]

@@Re-CreatingKev yes, only noticed this after I asked my question. I’ll watch it later today 👍

[@patty-im5id]

Just found your chanel . Subbed hope you have that warm cosy winter you need 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Welcome!...Kev

[@johnosullivan3924]

Kevin just to make you aware ive been subscribed for quite some time but when i clicked on this vid it said i wasn't.... no biggie just to let you know great content sir ..get yourself ready for winter

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi John, I haven't come across that before, maybe a glitch or something, thanks for persevering though....Kev

[@rayhitchman4741]

Get a mobile mechanic nearby, they'll come to you wherever you are mate

[@alandykes2519]

Only advice i could give you is i do a lot of car and van valets and I use a fabric spray that seems to work well good luck kev 👍👍👍👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Alan....Kev

[@mikeoverlin3573]

Laundry scent beads.

[@julieharding6631]

sorry ! not very eco friendly and probably toxic.

[@minigirl6839]

Good morning, Kev and Rupert. It looks like you've figured out the most pressing things you need to do to prepare yourselves for Winter. I was thinking for the side door/well area, you could get a piece of rubber, like a doormat type rubber or treadmill type rubber and cut it to fit that space. You could glue it down or just leave it where you could pick it up and clean it. I recently purchased a lot of that for a project I'm working on. If you lived closer, I'd gladly bring you some to try out. As for Rupert's wet dog smell, you could try getting a couple of boxes of baking soda, open them up and let them sit out. It helps to absorb the smell and Rupert wouldn't be sensitive to the scent. Also, charcoal is a good thing to sit around as it also absorbs odors. Rupert wouldn't be bothered with the scent, but he might want to chew on a piece of it. My dogs have always wanted to chew on charcoal for some reason, but I don't know why. Such a pleasure watching your video today. 😘

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, thank you, some good ideas there, Kev

[@JohnStraughan]

Vents in the sides of the van, at high level. one each side 100mm x 100mm hit and miss vent.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks John...Kev

[@markpullinger3916]

You need a carpenter just to help sort the small bits out or u-tubers get together give you a hand 🖐️

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Mark, one of my subscribers has kindly offered help me finish it off next week👍 Kev

[@markpullinger3916]

@@Re-CreatingKev that’s brilliant 🤩

[@lorraineowen7978]

Equafleece are a multi purpose for dogs which are amazing . Not cheap but worth every penny . 👌

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Lorraine.....Kev

[@VanlifeHQ]

Mate 3mm ply varnished or painted exactly what you said You can get that Closed cell adhesive foam to put behind jobs a goodan,

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks my friend...Kev

[@garryhills8648]

Hi Kev ask Welsh taff he has a dog And also has a transit about the doors Garry

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Garry, are you local to me, have we met?...Kev

[@garryhills8648]

@@Re-CreatingKev hi Kev I used to live down south in Rochester Kent But moved up to Cleveleys in 1987 I have a mk7 short wheel base transit I have had all the transits up to a mk7

[@jefftaylor844]

I would have thought Kevin would be collecting a British pension soon.

[@dna6440]

I think he is only 62 or 63

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, I'm 64 so I've got another 2.5 years to wait, when I started work in 1975 the age for pension was 65 but the government move the goal posts as and when they want!....Kev

[@jefftaylor844]

@Re-CreatingKev ... in Canada, you can start collecting half of your government pension (Canada Pension Plan), and then at 65, they allow you to add the other half (Old Age Security) for an average total for most seniors of about 1,800.00 / month CND.

[@wooafrica]

Hi Kev I came across you channel and i love you short videos Its not an easy task starting a you tube channel in your 60s Me and my wife are both in our sixties and we set up our you tube channel but we hope we can a good following one day but i think you you tube name is perfect for adding a store selling recreating Kev t-shirt and mugs you viewers would love that. 😀 keep up the good work

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, I just subbed to your channel and will watch some of your videos soon, it looks great. You're doing really well with it after just 2 weeks, keep going, it's hard work at times, just depends what you want to get out of it. If I can be of any help just ask, Kev

[@CCP_Operative]

Nice video, very relaxing. It will be lovely in the van with your heater this winter. Two bobs worth: coffee and activated carbon neutralise odours. Maybe there is something out there that would help.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, I'll look into that....Kev

[@ktd2956]

This side door problem is a very common fault with older vans. My Citroën relay had the same problem. You won't cure it by trying to adjust the doors,i tried that. I bought some "Fiamma drip stop 200 gutter" on eBay and stopped water ingress immediately. It's £38 for a 2 m strip. Might seem expensive, but for the peace of mind,its worth i. You can get cheaper non-branded, but this is top quality, and it works. It has a strong adhesive to fix above door and has reinforcing aluminium strips to strengthen it.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks, I'll take a look at that....Kev

[@perfumebottle1902]

What about a clothes dryer pod to use to quickly dry off and warm up towels etc.... I think they cost 18p an hour to run.. Ive seen then in argos. It could be useful for heating towels uo and rubbing rufus down. Just a thought. Loving the vlogs ❤

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for that.....Kev

[@johnshaw4140]

For the side door , cut a thin plywood panel to fit it and cover with POLYPROPYLENE carpet .POLYPROPYLENE is waterproof i.e. water does not get absorbed into it . That sort of carpet is often used in hospitals and kitchens because it repels moisture

[@mikeclare5907]

thanks for that, its is a tip for my back pocket. :) I find that reading the comments is often as informative and entertaining as the video. Best wishes Mike in County Durham

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I agree Mike, the comments are where the gold is!.....Kev

[@Re-CreatingKev]

What a great idea, thank you.....Kev

[@bassamtravel]

they look decent boots are they comfortable

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Yes they are, perfect for winter, Kev

[@bassamtravel]

@@Re-CreatingKev Cheers 🍻 for the information 😊👍😎

[@GottaBeThere2736]

👍

[@Sub_Divisions]

Wheres the boots from Kev?

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I bought them on eBay, there's loads on there, different styles, around £25....Kev

[@Sub_Divisions]

@@Re-CreatingKev Cheers

[@Paul-ly9ed]

Well done on the air freshener.. Very bad for dogs nose 🐕. Too strong

[@vetworker]

Cheap trick to keep warm in winter. Tube of Deep heat and smother yourself in it 🤣. Having spent several months living in a Victorian army barracks many years ago my fellow soldiers used to do this 😳😳😳

[@AJ-qn6gd]

Don’t get it on your dangly bits 😬🇬🇧

[@vetworker]

@@AJ-qn6gd 🤣🤣🤣 brings a whole new meaning to balls of fire

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great idea, thank you...Kev

[@Re-CreatingKev]

😂

[@ptonpc]

Good morning / Evening to you both!. Good luck during the winter. Depending on your budget, can you get large moving blankets that you can hang up to cut down on draughts and add extra insulation? Would a 'gutter' or shield on the side of the van for the door work? I am thinking of something that diverts the rain away from the inside of the door to the outside when it is open, a bit like the wind deflectors you can get for windows. Can you get hold of and run a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture inside the van?

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, yes I'm looking into something like you mention for the gutter, I think that's the way forward, Kev

[@AJ-qn6gd]

You need another diesel heater in your unit 👍🏻🇬🇧

[@Re-CreatingKev]

That would be nice but I cant drill any holes in it, Kev

[@karlmabe1649]

Uk winters are brutal take care

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Yes, especially when living in a van, cheers, Kev

[@kenzo9644]

buy a tripod

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks...Kev

[@Anthonyinkz]

Are you planning to sleep in van in winter, or you going to still stay at your moms .

[@chrisfinn7907]

thought he was a full time van lifer?

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I am👍...Kev

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I live full time in my van

[@peterpaliwoda1527]

When you take your dog for his walk …take another dog for its walks and get paid?…any good ?

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Peter, I've thought about it before bur never done it.....Kev

[@mikehurley5052]

Were you filming this during an earthquake, use a tripod.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great advice, thank you....Kev

[@Dottydoraukexplorer]

@@Re-CreatingKev kev I've hot a spare tripod you can have if you want that to 😊

[@kevinhouse9146]

​@@DottydoraukexplorerThat would be great Jane thank you, I have got one but it is very flimsy and wobbles about more than my selfie stick 😂🤣😂

[@Dottydoraukexplorer]

@kevinhouse9146 your very welcome Kev....I've got 2 or 3 ...can only use 1 at a time lol. Tc 😊

[@mikehurley5052]

@@Re-CreatingKev Mad Mark uses teddy bear bedding, its the finest according to him, super warm.

[@magicdexter3469]

I second the comment to get the carbon monoxide alarm. 😢don't want anything happening like that

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Iv'e got one👍, cheers, Kev

[@jansweeney1333]

Hi Kev, wright I ve got the perfect solution for preventing the door from excess rain water getting in ; rain gutter … please checkout this channel “ MyBIGtinyhouselife” Adelina from Canada fitted a rain gutter to stop the exact problem your having . The video “Van Sliding Door Rain Gard” was 3 months ago & was 21.27 mins long . Jan 👋🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 ( gotta keep Rupert dry now 🐶). Let me know how you get on 👌🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Jan, thanks for that, I just watched the video and it looks like a good solution for me! The channel looks great so I subbed and will watch some videos when I've got some spare time, thanks for your support as always.....Kev

[@jansweeney1333]

@@Re-CreatingKev fantastic Kev , I really do hope it solves your problem .when I ve saved up enough for a van ….i m gonna do a no build build …easy pleezy lemon squeezy 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿👋

[@Dottydoraukexplorer]

Hi Kev..if you can hang on 3 weeks I can pop down to you with some bits of left over insulation t&g,and I might have some floor vinyl left over to cover some of your floor if it helps . Anything ive got left over ill bring ok Let me know Kev 😊

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Jane, thanks so much for your offer, I've got the rest of the insulation that I need, one of my subscribers is coming over next week to help me finish it off, Kev

[@Dottydoraukexplorer]

@@Re-CreatingKev brilliant no problem Kev...I'll keep anything I think you could use in my van for when I see you. Tc 😊

[@Re-CreatingKev]

@@Dottydoraukexplorer Thanks Jane, you're a star!.....Kev

[@russellziegler4348]

Kev you are doing great. Winter must be a very different and challenging time. Sounds like your covering all the bases. You know what's coming. I wish you and Rupert all the comfort of your home.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Russell 👍

[@andrewward2708]

Hi Kev Great video as always to the point and honest! Just a thought, but do you advertise your eBay account?? I am sure many people would like to buy direct from you if they could? And if people wanted to send Rupert treats food etc could this be done without revealing your location,or compromising your way of life!! Stay safe A

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Andrew, I'm keeping my eBay account separate from KZbin for several reasons, mainly personal....Kev

[@Stevebookend]

How about bathroom pvc cladding for the side door?

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Interesting idea, thanks Steve....Kev

[@UniteUK935]

Hiya Kev, just touching on the subject of any ideas for the back doors. You can buy thermal material to drop down, just attach it at the top and then roll it down once you're settled for the night. I watched another KZbinr use it on his van conversion.

[@deb7518]

I was going to suggest a pair of pre-made thermal curtains for the back doors, hung from a long tension rod curtain rod. Then you can just sweep them to the side when you're coming and going, then close them for the night once you're inside. Also, they make those foam 'puzzle block' rugs for small children's rooms. They lock together like puzzle pieces, and maybe you could cut them to size and affix them with a spray adhesive for the side door, then a small rubber-backed door mat for the floor just inside on the floor (again, cut to fit if need be). Good luck, and don't forget that charity shops can be your friend to find some of these things. 😊

[@user-nt8ck4zg4z]

@@deb7518there is that thermal material on a roll for gym work i bought for my van its dark grey in colour. Got it from the range in their gym equipment section.😊

[@Re-CreatingKev]

That sounds brilliant, I'll have a look at that, Kev

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Deb, great tips, Kev

[@simonsolo7750]

Get some of those dehumidifiers. A plastic tub with crystals inside that absorb the water. You can get a pack of them for a couple of quid 😊.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi Simon, I did try them in my last van and didn't think they did much....Kev

[@RoaminRob]

I been in my van 18 months and my side doors still bare 😂 but my heater is located there which helps..

[@frankmckie2992]

This might sound daft, but the quick cheap solution to your side door is a heavy thermal curtin, plus you could do something similar to the bac door, hope that helps mate 😀👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great idea, thanks, Kev

[@SimonFlax]

Wow kev looks cosy in your van, soon be summer again.keep warm you & Rupert take care 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@joannacurran8475]

To keep jumpers and things clean and dry put them in jumbo zip lock bags. I use them in the tropics.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Great tip!....Kev

[@ANYTHING-AND-EVERYTHING.]

I would also put a thick curtain across the backdoors to help stop draft more and help with insulation...

[@FemaleMatters]

An electric mud daddy or similar brand are brilliant for dog, muddy boots and shower etc. I put a 20l tub of water near the heater and it gets warm enough to wash in. They generally come with different heads so i use one of the brushes for the dog, one for boots and cleaning my kayak, paddle board and van, and a simple spout for my showers. Really good to see others of us offering help. In days when we see more selfishness than ever, its good to know theres lots of good people in our community x

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing!.....Kev

[@UNITGJ]

Get unlimited data on your mobile phone so you don’t need an extra device/data plan 👍🏼

[@TheLampini]

We did this - Tesco mobile, £20 /month 😊 unlimited data. I just hang it in the porthole of my narrowboat and I have enough bandwidth to stream netflix and WFH. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@chrisc9406]

Outstanding jobs are relatively minor compared to the fitting of the diesel heater. At least you and Rupert should be warm and comfortable this winter. 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, we will be fine, Kev

[@tomprentice6935]

⚔️💪👌👍🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🇬🇧(stroke)

[@jotski10]

heat and ventilation ?

[@alexbryers9467]

I have just put sticky floor planks down in my lounge. Couldn’t afford anything else. Bought them off eBay. They would be perfect for your floor in the van.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks Alex, that's a good idea👍......Kev

[@TheLampini]

I always operated a "no boots" policy in my van, and had a dedicated small towel for puppers feet. Personally id go for a small wood burner but they're very marmite 😂 have a look at Foresty Forest's woodburner set up. 😊

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you for sharing.....Kev

[@Spartonian74]

Looking forward to hearing how you go in winter coping with the UK cold in this van ✌🏻

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I'll keep you updated..no worries..Kev

[@amandabartell1502]

Maybe large picnic blankets for your dog on the bed, to protect your bedding, one on and one off for drying/cleaning . You could also get into the habit of wiping paws with a towel when you come in as that will help a bit. Cut up an old towel into smaller pieces so its easier to wash and dry them. Charity shops ofter sell old towels for dogs. Hope you find out some good tips that will help, its challenging enough keeping on top of human cleanliness but wet dog is a whole other level lol. Good luck in winterising your van 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for sharing Amanda, some good tips there....Kev

[@PaulRobinson-d7t]

Kevin in your other van what heater did you use for heating....

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, Paul, the same as I have now....Kev

[@jK-yj2tl]

I think you will find with the diesel heater rolling this winter your van will be much dryer. With the ventilation running occasionally during the day and your heater running your rig should be nice and dry and not musty this winter. The diesel heater is a game changer.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

I agree, we'll be fine, thank you....Kev

[@annerand8155]

Hope you take up Sunris offer. Would make a good video

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, yes I've spoken to Rob and he's coming over next week! ......Kev

[@UOO303T]

Just subscribed bud....all the best 👍

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Awesome thank you!.....Kev

[@1must723]

Look into antinox panels you can do the door and the top gap treble it up to 6 mm you can cut with sharp Stanley Knife then cover as i am doing at moment for my van with vinal wrap looks fantastic

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thank you, I'll look into that, Kev

[@BioRuss-qr5il]

Hi Kev, I am really happy to see you and Rupert again. Sorry I am not able to give you any advice on the sliding door issue as I have never encountered that issue so never had to deal with it. Please when winter sets in if you could video this issues and show us your life like you have been doing I would appreciate it Thanks for sharing this really important video. God Bless and stay strong I will be praying for you and Rupert, Remember you are not alone and God love us all. Cheers m8 hope to see you soon again.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for your support as always Russ, I'll keep the videos coming...wind rain or shine!....Kev

[@JohnEnergy2012]

Things smell... embrace it.

[@JohnEnergy2012]

People are completly disconect from reality.

[@JohnEnergy2012]

Things that don’t smell still do, it’s just masked by something stronger.

[@TraceyAllen-d1z]

Were are you based please.

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Hi, I'm on the south coast, near littlehampton....Kev

[@heidirobinson8734]

Re: winter lack of car- boot sales. Have you considered investigating Indoor Markets.....some have spare stalls or units they'll offer f short term rent. It's also the time many village halls have table- top sales.....n xmas festivals.....they usually cheapish.....n would be ideal f smaller items/ themed items? I hope that you feel able t accept offers of help sorting out your van.....the community is full of some wonderful folk....n no judgement! Feel sure that your post will be very usefull for others!❤

[@Re-CreatingKev]

Thanks for your message, I've got a kind KZbinr coming over next week to help me get my van finished, I'll keep you updated....Kev

[@heidirobinson8734]

@@Re-CreatingKev Am relieved t hear it! Was a bit worried re cold n damp n ice forming on the inside with you....due t excessive condensation etc. Looking forward t seeing update!

[@LoxleysEscapePlan]

Thanks for this one Kev! I'm in my T5 at the mo, no electric and no heater, it's been fine for the summer but I've been saving up for a few months for leisure battery, solar and heating so should be sorted by November latest. See you at one of the spots one day mate! LOXLEY