VAN TOUR & VAN MODS Review of Hymer Aktiv After 2 Years of RV Life / Van Life

[@drobins8166]

Thanks for the tour and tips. The Solis Pocket layout looks like your rig. Good job with those modifications.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

All Gear mentioned in this video: ►Net organizers: amzn.to/3c8NDdS ►Sand Free Blue Mat: amzn.to/3cfFvse ►USB power adapter: amzn.to/2B2E6Z3 ►USB Quick Charger: amzn.to/3c6SJaN ►Fridge storage containers: amzn.to/2TI52UH ►Cube surge protector outlet: amzn.to/2AiXYGX ►Travel Berkey Water Filter: amzn.to/3c6TOPY ►Shelves for closet: amzn.to/2X6ro41 ►USB Fan:amzn.to/2TJeVkJ ►Wire basket: amzn.to/2X7npob ►Induction cooktop (portable): amzn.to/2X73m9d ►Kitchen drawer organizer trays: amzn.to/36GQVUL and amzn.to/2AiZp8j ►Gliding shelf for pantry: amzn.to/36ACkKm ★ Check out the Story Chasing Exclusive Members-Only Community: kzbin.info/door/1zd3YzKBOBsKW92gilw53Qjoin Turn Your Dreams Into Reality: ►Free Cheatsheet: storychasing.mykajabi.com/create-do-live ►Blog Post with More details: www.storychasing.com/how-to-turn-your-dreams-into-reality/ ★ Free Mini-Course on Expenses & Budgeting for Travel: Get my full annual budget including personal expenses, a budget template for you, learn how to budget for your travels, and tips on saving money in your budget so you can start traveling sooner and live your best life. ►www.storychasing.com/rvexpenseminicourse AT&T Unlimited/Uncapped/No Throttled Data Plan: ► www.storychasing.com/att All My Gear in one location for you to browse: ► www.Amazon.com/shop/StoryChasing

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Story Chasing :)

[@tarac5137]

When you turned the chair around Lily was like “Hey, you are interrupting my nap!” 😁 Thanks for sharing. Good info, much to think about. 🚐

[@AmberJBaldwin]

She totally was. Did you see her yawn at the very end of that part?? Lol

[@tarac5137]

🤣 Back to napping!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Lol of course. She’s got a good life that girl!

[@peterpowell6168]

Today is a gift that's why they call it the Present 😁 looking forward to finding an used RV or van to begin a journey . You've got a great van setup 👍 thanks for your positive response.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Peter Powell 😀 UM wow!!! I love that "today is a gift that's why they call it the Present..." Such incredible words! You're welcome and thank you Peter!

[@souldawn2187]

The outside looks way better than before 👍🏽

[@susanscovill6817]

Excellent tour. All the information and not wordy over descript orations.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad it was helpful!

[@marjmeredithe6383]

Impressive modifications. Your home is SO cosy.💖

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks!

[@gloriabass9945]

And you have everything you need in your nice tiny home on wheels stay safe.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you.

[@sydnieleehoughton3935]

Love everything you’ve done. You inspire me! Thanks Amber.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Sydnie Lee Houghton you're so sweet. I hope to see you soon at the next Hymer event.

[@eleanormassaro5195]

Amber, you have done an absolutely fantastic job with modding your Hymer campervan! This is your full-time home, so you have that pride of ownership in making it your home-sweet-home! I'd like to even try some of your cabinet mods in my own home! LOL! Again, thank you for showing us these tips whether we're already full-time RV'ing or dreaming about it!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you so much and thanks for watching!

[@pattyann7803]

How great to have a friend to help with mods.

[@janm8477]

Appreciate the detailed review of pros and cons, both here and in your 6 month review. It's helpful to me as I study class B's and narrow down the choices. Also, it helps in looking at used Aktiv's, to understand and to inquire about certain systems and their condition. Thanks!!

[@wrongwaynsassie]

I love to know where the net the shoes are in under the table came from. Hubby and I drive semi truck and I have found some of your storage ideas very useful. Thank you

[@wrongwaynsassie]

Oh I found it in the description after a second look. Thank you

[@debmann5168]

Hi Amber, I loved this tour. Amazing job. Every mod is fantastic and very inspiring. Lily is the sweetest.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you so much! Glad you enjoyed it!

[@hazelem1266]

Love your slide out pantry. Also regarding the hooks for your keys, we put our hooks on an inside wall so that it can’t be seen immediately. There is no door on that cupboard. Love your dog

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you!

[@MsClever26]

wow. you have ALOT of stuff.. van makes me appreciate custom builds so much more

[@AmberJBaldwin]

lol yeah well it’s basically custom at this point.

[@CallMeVie]

@@AmberJBaldwin have you thought about creating shelving (in the back of the 2x seat) from that little closet behind the Berkey... So you need not move the Berkey everytime? And just access it the other side. You could route all those wires to there to. I love your home! Impressed by all your Mods. Saved to my van ideas booklet!!!

[@teedub68]

@@AmberJBaldwin I'm a new subscriber and love the vids. Do you have any advice on how much to save before hand to get on the road full-time? What are monthly expenses out on the road? Thanks again for sharing.

[@danicacopp8376]

Love the look of your van! Awesome job!

[@glennasandhoff245]

Thanks for the update, I like hearing what works best and what doesn't. I'm very interested in van life but haven't convinced my husband yet. He is a work in progress.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Haha Glenda. No idea how many times I hear that talking spouses into this lifestyle. Keep working on him. ☺️

[@shawneeb3771]

You have done a great job with all the modifications. They all turned out really well and improved storage by a lot.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Shawnee thank you. I'm pretty pleased with it too and had to get creative in some areas. :) Always a work in progress.

[@joeosborne8354]

Fantastic overview! It’s great to see all your mods and personal touches!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you liked it! Thank you!

[@gallente4TW]

Brilliant video. Just brilliant. None of that 'I keep this item in here and this item and, etc, etc'. Seriously, why do people do that? Tell us every single thing and where it goes? You were honest about your dislikes as much as your dolikes. Didn't name-drop that much and tbh, I'm usually not a fan of clutter, but your van, for some reason, looks not only lived in (as it should), but enjoyed in. 👏 Bravo !

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Why thank you. What an incredible compliment.

[@RoamingRuca]

I love it! Great use of space and awesome ideas 👍

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you!

[@sandrasdiamondroad3089]

I really like this video. Your van/home looks awesome

[@jamiebautista6392]

This is why it is better to build your own so you can costumize it to your preference.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Jamie Bautista 😀

[@jamiebautista6392]

@@AmberJBaldwin i didnt mean to offend anyone. Hahaha its just that I've been watching van builds for years.

[@KeithofPlanetEarth]

Excellent video - great to show what is wrong and how you fixed it.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@1-SmallStep]

Thank you so much for this video!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@jonathanparham]

Very impressed with the outside modifications

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Jonathan Parham thank you!

[@KimberlyBorchardt92008]

love this layout considering using a similar layout. all the hacks tips n mods are great inspiration. I have a 2014 promaster 159

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad it was helpful! Nice on the van. Did you build it out already?

[@KimberlyBorchardt92008]

@@AmberJBaldwin Yes we are curently buiding it. Ive had it a year, been to the van build with Jamie in 2018 i installed a fan, solar and build the bed (7 different versions and still not 100% in love with the bed.) It has been a lot of trial and error but worth it. Im excited to get on the road soon.

[@van7639]

Thanks for all your videos. You have helped me so much! Hugs to Lilly!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Happy to help! awww sweet Lily!

[@nancyskean6425]

Thanks Amber for the improvements recap. Wow, you have done a lot to the van over the past two years! I would be interested in hearing more about the battery gauge that you installed on the right side of your instrument panel. You said you were not too happy with it so far. I would like to hear more about it, why you had it installed and what you hope it will add to your information assessment. Also, I love that pull out pantry option. I will have to look into that! Thank you once again for your clear and concise delivery of valuable information regarding the Hymer. Since I am not on Facebook, you are my source for everything Hymer. Safe travels and be well.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Nancy Skean you're so welcome and always thank you for watching! The battery monitoring kit should show the exact % of battery charge left in the battery and also show state of health and the net amps being drawn in from solar and usage. The only thing that I see that works is the net usage. Everything doesn't work. I was actually testing it for Edge Van Works to see if it's something that would work and therefore be useful to others. Most solar systems come with a battery monitoring kit but Hymer didn't add that so you have to kind of guess how much power you have left in the batteries. So glad you enjoyed it.

[@brpoor1]

#goals!! Girl you are awesome! Congratulations on 3 years! You have inspired me so much! 🥰

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Brandi Poor thank you and I appreciate your kindness. Where are you at these days?

[@brpoor1]

Story Chasing I’m still a wannabe stuck in my traditional house in Oklahoma. BUT, I’m saving up and using this time to research and learn everything I can. I binge watched all your videos in about 2 weeks! I love everything you’re doing and can’t wait to meet you on the road someday!!

[@barbarab2945]

Love your van and your ideas. Clever girl. Safe travels

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you.

[@rrr_rozell7992]

I really enjoyed your tour! Thanks!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You are so welcome!

[@VanJoplin]

Wow really great info and great mods Amber!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks Val. Hope you’re doing well!!

[@cabbking]

Always a polished, coherent story. You hav put a lot into that pricy rig but it all makes sense. Why don’t manufacturers listen to customers before they build? Easiest and cheapest isn’t always cheapest in the long term.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Crystal Clark Wow wow what a sweet and kind compliment! Thank you Crystal! That's a great question on why they don't listen, but I think its been supply and demand for so long that they don't really need to change.

[@j.garcia7832]

Love the set-up. Keep up the great videos.👍

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks Joe and absolutely! ☺️

[@webbphoto2]

Another Great Video! I just sold my C Class24ft motorhome and bought a 2000 Newmar Mountain Aire 33ft. motorhome. We are not fulltime RVer's But we do like to travel and spend winter in Florida and the summer up in Canada traveling around and we also have a house up in Canada. You talked about getting land, we live have a place the we can always go back to after our adventures. The 33ft is going to take getting used to but the room inside is so awesome and we get to tow a small car. We use to travel by motorbike with tent, so we've come a long way. But fond memories with each new rig. Good luck with your adventures and I'll be watching! lol

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Robert Webb Congrats on your new home!!! How do you like it? Does it have slides too? Motorbike would be cool too, but I don't think I'd be up for tent camping. lol. :)

[@webbphoto2]

Story Chasing yes it has a big side which makes it like a home and the front seats swivel around to give you. Great seats for visitors. Plus easy-boy chair

[@ManWander]

congrats on 3 yr anniversary! good 4 you!!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you!!!

[@gilleslabrie.royallepage]

I never been inside one of the van but I find very impressive. I really Love all the great modifications you did. I am a fairly newbie on your channel but I find you interesting, keep up the good works. Gilles

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you very much and glad you're enjoying my channel and vids. Are you looking to travel full time?

[@user-tn9nt9cs6z]

Very helpful video. Thank you. Curious, where do you source parts like window latches, cabinet hardware that are Hymer specific? Thanks

[@cenedraleaheldra5275]

Great layout.i like the board between the bed and stove. I am surprised that stoves are close to the bed. Why not put stove near door. You don’t need sprays from cooking into your bed. Looking forward to seeing your new updates. What will you do. I think your amazing

[@AmberJBaldwin]

CeNedra Lea Heldra I thought that too when I purchased it with the stove being so close to the bed, but thankfully no issues and the induction cooktop helps because I can move it around. Thank you so much for your kind compliments. I hope you're doing well too!

[@aligator1394]

Lookn sharp! Love the upgrades!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you 😊

[@teddyco.2021]

Love your van, it's got everything 🤣👍🏻

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you. It’s pretty sweet and I enjoy it.

[@tnttroy]

Thank you so much for sharing. Just about to start my journey :)

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Oh nice. What rig do you have?

[@tnttroy]

@@AmberJBaldwin I got a Sonic Lite trailer to pull behind my Jeep Cherokee. Just waiting for things to clear up so I can head out :) Feel free to contact me if you'd like to stay in touch......and maybe give me some tips ;)

[@megriccio4946]

Do you leave your inverter switch that is in the back of the van on the battery on all the time? What could be draining my engine battery always has to be jumped.

[@steadmanuhlich6734]

Excellent video. First I have seen of yours. I will subscribe to see more. I like what you show and say and have done. Also, your channel's name "Story Chasing" has me curious too, so I hope I will learn more about that in your other videos. Happy trails!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you so much Steadman! ☺️ Enjoy and ask any questions you want.

[@pickles6425]

Hi, many thanks for this tour of mods. I read in fbook Hymer group that you ditched the sunroof crank and use a tool to open and close the sunroof. I have the floppy sunroof problem in my Hymer (Aktiv '18) and would love to know what tool you use instead of the crank? I could not find the original post regarding that solution. Keeping the sunroof taped tight as it is now is no go long term, neither is replacing the entire assembly because its design is the problem.

[@mariecruz5509]

I love it! This would be my van (if I had one!!!!) you have a wet toilet which is top priority! Can’t imagine being in the mercy of gyms and Walmart! Very nice!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you!

[@TalkingWithBob]

I am jelly of you having a stand up van

[@AmberJBaldwin]

What kind of Van do you have?

[@TalkingWithBob]

@@AmberJBaldwin 95 e250 xl on my channel or instagram of your interested

[@sharimctiver8952]

Great mods! I love the black plasti-dip & the new look of the front. Jealous of your Rad bike!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Shari McTiver You're welcome! I love that look too and the bike. Maybe one in your future you think?

[@SMITHYSKONTIKI]

Great tour love the van

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you liked it!

[@trishmince2652]

Her Amber! It was great meeting you today at Bryce Canyon! I hope our paths cross again! Happy travels💗Trish Mince

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Trish Mince fancy meeting you too and so glad you hopped on here to touch base. Safe travels and hope to you see you on the road as well. Best of wishes to you and your family.

[@trishmince2652]

Story Chasing 💗

[@brittchandler8271]

Hi Amber. Could you tell me specically where you went to get that nifty swing away tire carrier? I have an Aktiv to and would like to open that door allot more often if it wasn't for the stock tire carrier.

[@chadkiefner8877]

Very cool 😎

[@AmberJBaldwin]

chad kiefner 😊 Hope you enjoy it!

[@sandraking7810]

I love the bug screen on the front of the grill, never seen this idea before. I bought a 2018 Promaster to convert only problem is it's taking me a very long time. I woke up this morning thinking maybe I should switch to something already built out. Thank you for this video after seeing it I hope to get back on track with my van. If your ever in the upstate area of NY it would be nice to have a meet up. Stay Save

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Sandra King are you building it out yourself? You're so welcome and good luck with your build. Maybe once I get there we can have a YT subscriber meet-up. That would be cool to meet-up.

[@sandraking7810]

@@AmberJBaldwin yes, I am attempting to build it out myself. Trying not to get overwhelmed. I have a bed and cabinets in so traveling when I can. I have two Maxxair fans that will be going in soon

[@agomez8318]

Nice modifications. Clearly this company who built the van was not great quality. Great tour

[@AmberJBaldwin]

A Gomez83 😊 Just posted a new van tour of the inside in case you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bprak4RnpdaCjqc

[@sharonanspach2734]

wow..you have improved your van so much..guess there will never be that perfect camper out there lol..

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Sharon Anspach No I guess there never is, but I decided this last year to really make it my own. I like to live in a space for awhile to get a feel for it and then make changes.

[@martamartinez9727]

Nice nice nice!!! Love it! Be safe

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Marta Martinez Thank you so much!

[@mfc1276]

You did a great job nice work

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thanks so much!!

[@susan319]

You are the only van life or that seems to be brave enough to tell us how much things cost. When you update us on your changes can you give us The cost. Constantly changing my set up I would like to know what I’m in for financially. I promise I don’t work for the IRS LOL

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Susan 😀 lol. I honestly didn't keep track of all the costs and some were given to me as sponsor stuff. All in all..I'm guestimating an additional $5k

[@gracecallowayable]

Beautiful!!! Lily is adorable!!!👠🚌👠

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Graycee Calloway thank you!

[@marymccarthy4722]

Wow! Love it!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Mary Mccarthy Thank you for reaching out and commenting!

[@MaeKelm]

Awesome job well done like it.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Mae Kelm thank you very much! Hope you're doing well Mae. Are you looking for a van or RV?

[@proguardpets389]

what do you think of posting a network of repair places and or modification places and what they can do well in repairs, we can all draw from and add to modifications mechanics / i also have done many modifications and can share as well / what do you think

[@Lawrence_L.A._Auble]

How cold of weather can the van stand now that you’ve insulted the doors?

[@brianrose2487]

Sweet mods!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Brian Rose Thanks so much! ☺️

[@elsestelema6273]

Love it!!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Glad you like it!

[@LeslieMurdock]

Do you use the roof AC much? Have you any plans to replace it with a less noisy model or with a fan?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Leslie Murdock No I don't use the AC very much. I might have turned it on a couple of times since I've had it but I choose to stay in places where I don't need it. I've thought of removing it, but I do okay with the fantastic fan for airflow so I'll keep it so that when I sell it the next person may want it. I'm looking at selling sometime this next year most likely.

[@sydnieleehoughton3935]

Story Chasing Amber, why will you sell next year? What will y9u buy?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I’m looking at a truck camper instead. It has a lot more room and is like a mini apartment

[@QBNTO1]

Great 👍🏼 video. You have to get sumo springs kit and raise that van up an inch or two. Better clearance. Great layout too bad Hymer went out of business. Sucks about your warranty.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I guess I forgot to mention I already have sumo springs. Game changer for sure. ☺️

[@OverlandCitrus]

OMG your little doggie looks just like my Mabel so cute

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you.

[@kathleenporter2235]

❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@fishernate]

I’m looking at buying a used hymer activ with very low miles. How would you rate the overall reliability of the build? Do you think that I would be wiser to spend more on a rig with a warranty? I’m worried about finding parts if anything hymer specific breaks.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

fishernate Try searching FB for Hymer Owners and Wannabes for more information. I love my van despite the past issues, but I haven't had too many issues.

[@mohamedbinedeal76]

Wear is the frig

[@AmberJBaldwin]

In the kitchen by the bed. It's low to the ground.

[@McRockfish]

And, you say the floor of the wet bath cracks often? once it is cracked do you just repair it? you say you don't use the bathroom to shower because it is useless? that is a bummer. I want a bathroom to shower in. And, can you order new screens from whoever Hymer got them from?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

McRockfish 😀 You can fix it and modify it, but it still would require you to move things around from getting wet. It's a wet bath and I don't trust that the "wood" wouldn't rot from the moisture long term.

[@troyyie5619]

Hi, Amber, can you link me a company website for the sliding door bug screen? Thanks.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Troy Yie It's for a company called ROLEF out of Montreal Canada

[@kowalski3769]

Love the layout inside! It's like you have 3 rooms. Sitting area, sleeping and kitchen. What kind of grill are you using? If propane, where do you store the propane tank? I can't ride a bicycle for physical reasons, but I do like the swing out bike rack. I wonder if you could mount a grill on the bike brackets? Cool channel! Good and creative tips!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

fred Williams It's a small Weber Go grill that hooks directly to my propane tank.

[@mrslcom]

How much have you sink into the van in terms of modifications? How do you find the size of the ProMaster 2500? Would you get the Hymer Activ if you were to start over again? Thanks.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Tanah Merah I haven't actually sat down to figure out the dollars invested in to the modifications. Some of the stuff you've seen done came at $0 cost to me because friends did the labor portion so I only paid for parts. I cant try and put a # to it soon and post about it. :) I like the 2500. The 3500 is one foot longer so you get that extra space in the back of the van. It would be helpful, but I seem to have plenty of room. Hmmm..great question if I would buy it again. If you had asked me a year ago I would say yes in heart beat, even with the demise of Hymer because it's got one of the better layouts for something predesigned, but now with Hymer gone and other Class B companies like Winnebago producing similar layouts then I might consider that one. The price point for Hymer was really great and still is for what you get. People picking up used Hymers are getting a great deal too because new owners have worked through the bugs; though that's typical of any RV you purchase.

[@cigarmann]

Man there was a ton of potential storage space in the doors!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Oh which ones?

[@cigarmann]

@@AmberJBaldwin look like the ones that didn't have any insulation and just had a plastic cover over them I think that space could have been used for something

[@frankdawson1426]

Hi Amber, can you give me the mattress topper link please?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Frank Dawson 😀 I actually bought this at Costco. It's just a 2 inch topper but it made all the difference.

[@leilal8053]

Does the Burkee change the taste of the water? The Brita filter makes it sickenly SWEET.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Leila L Oh no...it's the best out there. It's super clean tasting and refreshing.

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

@@AmberJBaldwin Berkey filters are excellent and one I trust for drinking water.

[@alyssacerkleski1175]

Love the screen side door. What is the name of the company in Montreal? Thank you.

[@sldrgrl20downzerotogo11]

I'm surprised that your dog doesn't chew at those wires/cords.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

She’s pretty good. She doesn’t do that sort of thing.

[@patbullard8135]

What was your reason for choosing the HYMER RV

[@pp3k3jamail]

💥💥 I have a question why it seem like a lot of people who do the van life why are there Vans always White? That seem to be the most common color. Like people don't be having their Vans different colors. I be seeing a lot of these van tour videos on KZbin and all the Vans be white does that have to do with so van won't get too hot during the summer or something.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

PhillyJay. 215. 😊 Just posted a new van tour of the inside in case you're interested: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bprak4RnpdaCjqc Also I think it's because the manufacturer of these vans produce white for commercial purposes so it's a blank slate devoid of color for graphics and logos. We're just now making these homes so I'm sure they just haven't caught up.

[@kdl8932]

Hi Amber, where did you find that 'roll out pantry' that you have? Great vid, thanks! Ross & Jean Vallejo, CA

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Ross Guldenbrein it's in my Amazon shop under kitchen: www.Amazon.com/shop/StoryChasing Thanks for watching Ross. It's an easy install too.

[@mrs.t7008]

Hello Amber, talk about modifications/changes, you and the van :-) you are looking good and very healthy... Go Amber Go! You mentioned that Lily had her special harness for riding on the seat. Do you mind sharing which make and where you got it? They are difficult to find for small dogs as they often suggest they should be crated. Room is just too limited for crates in Aktiv.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Mrs. T thank you. It was just a small harness I purchased at a Petsmart, but then I purchased the pet seat belts on Amazon that clip right into the seat belt holder of your chair. That is then attached to her harness. Works really well.

[@charleswhite8439]

Great Space Adaptation and Van Build Out! and Video' ➡Super Smooth Audio and Edited Experience! - Hey That 'EDGE VANWORKS' in Livermore Ca'. Seems like a Great Place! 'wink'😉 Really Impressed With Your Improvements To 'Under Engineered' Products! --Maybe a Modified 'Single' or 'crib' size 'Size Adapted' Matress Gel Topper For That Bench Seat Might Be The Cats Meow!?! Finally I just thought ' How Many Pups Get Live In a 'Lets Go For a Ride 'Permanently' Kinda Situation!?! Very Cool! Peace an Blessings Always to You🌈 an Pups🐶Always!🌎

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Charles White 84 why thank you sir! Very kind compliment and I appreciate you noticing the editing work! lol Hope you're doing well!

[@charleswhite8439]

@@AmberJBaldwinYour Very Most Welcome! Hoping Your At Your Very Best Also!I've Always Noticed How Mysteriously Calming Your Videos Are😶?' Whats Your Secret!?! Lol' - Bi'Th'Way Your Rig Looks Awesome!🌈

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

@@charleswhite8439 What makes the bench seat uncomfortable is that it is too upright and unnatural.

[@user-ym6lc7pk1e]

Great mods! They truly transform space! No more showers? What do you use for personal hygiene? How did your batteries held up, given that Hymer lithium system seemed to fail on virtually everybody who owned it?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Dima thank you! I use the kitchen sink to wash my hair and wash the bod. I'm still clean just not under the showerhead. When gyms and public shower facilities are open I use those to take showers. Knock on wood, I haven't had any issues with my batteries!!!! I was actually able to get mine reprogrammed fairly quickly as far as the charge controller is concerned which might have helped, but fingers crossed....all is well.

[@user-ym6lc7pk1e]

Story Chasing Thank you! Your videos are very inspirational. BTW, loved the presentation style on this review. Great editing job!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you so much!

[@lisetteboucherfortin4775]

Amber Hi I would like the name of the company that made your screen door in Montreal ..I would get it for our house thank you ..I know you told us but can't find it ..I miss spell it I think

[@AmberJBaldwin]

lisette Boucher Fortin oh sure. It's called Rolef.

[@McRockfish]

Great video. I am looking at a few used Hymers now. Question: Don't you think the loft edition would have given you more room. A place to hang out when you needed a change from below. Why didn't you buy a loft edition? And, did all the Hymers come on a 2500 ProMaster? or did some come on a 3500 ProMaster?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

McRockfish 😀 The loft wasn't out when I purchased, but I wouldn't have purchased anyways because I like the solar I have on top plus the AC for emergencies. The loft doesn't have that. The Hymers are 2500 chassis and the Hymer 2.0 is on the 3500 chassis. A foot longer. Make sure you visit the Facebook page for Hymer Owners and Wannabes for a WEALTH of information and assistance.

[@McRockfish]

@@AmberJBaldwin Doesn't the Hymer 2.0 loft have 200AH of solar on top and also an undermount AC system. It has both of these I think?

[@lancebrendel7494]

Amber, Hope all is well with you. Great job (as always) on your video. You gave me some great ideas/mods to think about. On your fiberglass bug screen on the front. I have a question out to Matt on it also, but wanted to hear how the fiberglass screening is holding up after couple (?) years? Saw were Matt also did one with aluminum screening. Debating between the two. Did you double over the friberglass matting? and did it impact engine temps or running hotter. aka larry

[@AmberJBaldwin]

I haven’t had any issues at all and no issues with engine temps. I monitor that with my ultra gauge too. It’s held up nicely.

[@lancebrendel7494]

@@AmberJBaldwin Thank You

[@bethmcpherson2756]

Where did you get the swingwawy spare tire hitch modified? Thank you. This is a must!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Beth McPherson 😀 From Gordon at Edge Van Works in Livermore, CA.

[@joetua8852]

Love the van Amber. I can't believe how functional the inside is.. your amazing.. can't wait to see on the road..

[@AmberJBaldwin]

joe tua Thanks so much! ☺️ Safe travels.

[@grn6525]

May I join you? I am retired Locomotive engineer. Ready to go. Virus holding me back another year. Teach me to fly the nest.

[@AmberJBaldwin]

GR N 😀 You're in luck...I have a free masterclass you can take (3 videos) that will help you to fly the nest and get prepared. It's at www.storychasing.com/masterclass Good luck!

[@jkanton]

Can I please be first in line to purchase when you are ready to get a new rig! Love the upgrades!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Lol really?

[@jkanton]

Story Chasing Yes! We are looking for a used one now. I just watched your old videos and you convinced us to get a B instead of a class C due to mobility issues you had in the northeast

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Oh so cool. Why don’t you send me an email with your info to [e-mail] so we can stay connected if that’s ok.

[@dianahollenbeck9986]

Great video. It was fun to see all your upgrades. I have a DIY 2018 Nissan NV2500 and after 16 months on the road, I still love it and just completed a few mods that I wasn't sure about during the original build. Could you give me a link for the company who build your magnetic screen? I have one I McGyvered from a purchased one, but it's not perfect. Thank you again for your great content!

[@AmberJBaldwin]

What mods did you do? The company is called ROLEF out of Montreal Canada. Thank you 🙏🏻!

[@dianahollenbeck9986]

@@AmberJBaldwin I added another 10 gal fresh water tank, an awning window in my sliding door for cross ventilation, and a cabinet from the countertop to ceiling at the back. I wished I had known fresh and grey are not equal in/out. I would have planned differently. The good news is I was able to double my water within the space I had. The cabinet I added is a pantry and it was an excellent decision as well. Tons of space! 👍

[@karo88100]

What size of tires do you have?

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Orak Pulanco 😀 225s/75R16 These are the BF Goodrich K02s.

[@kellypoulos8702]

Very nice

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Thank you. Are you looking for a class b?

[@kellypoulos8702]

Not at this time.... Just sold my 2019 Travato class B, as life changes with an elderly father.

[@andyG779]

Brilliant van tour!👌Can I ask you how the ride has changed on the road surface since changing your tyres to the more all terrain tyres? Many thanks ...

[@AmberJBaldwin]

Andy Goswell great question! I lost about 15% fuel efficiency which is a sacrifice but worth it to me given the terrain I'm usually on, like dusty dirt roads, bumpy BLM and National Forest, etc. I didn't notice a change in how the van drives or feels when adding the tires. Some say it can be noisier, but maybe I just play my music louder??? lol

[@andyG779]

Story Chasing Wow! Thanks for the quick reply! Much appreciated! Stay safe and Keep up the good work!!!👍

[@AmberJBaldwin]

You’re so welcome. Take care!

[@epicelements5528]

I would love to know where you got your brush guard and skid plate installed. I want to add that to my 3500 Promaster. Thank you 😁

[@AmberJBaldwin]

EPICVANLIFE 😀 I got it from Gordon at Edge Vanworks in Livermore, CA (The Bay Area). He's amazing! One of the only people I trust completely to work on my van!

[@epicelements5528]

Story Chasing Awesome! Thank you so much for your reply. I will give him a call and tell him you sent me ☺️