VanChat Tuesday - What did we upgrade & how much did it cost?

What have we changed or upgraded in our motorhome over the past year of owning it and how much did each upgrade cost and what is the total cost? These are the types of questions we get every few days so we thought we'd make this video to cover everything in one go.
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[@BigVanSmallWorld]

Holly smoke you spent more on upgrades than I spent on my entire van and I got bad ass tyres 😂👍

[@johnmandy]

You win Mel, I bet Mandy someone would say exactly that 😎😂

[@BigVanSmallWorld]

@@johnmandy I was going to say I’ll use your Amazon links if you use mine but I think I’d be getting the better part of the deal 😂😂👍

[@sallymckenzie6546]

You two are so sweet to watch! I discovered you very recently and have really enjoyed every episode. I look forward to watching more. Unfortunately I can’t travel right now so I’m doing it vicariously through others such as yourselves!

[@johnmandy]

Oh thanks Sally, we’re so glad you’re enjoying watching our vids. Hopefully we’ll all be out and about soon enough 😁❤️

[@davidmeadowcroft7626]

Great video guys. Out of context, some of the changes might seem expensive and/or OTT, but as you said in the video, when it’s your home FT you need to ensure that it works in all situations. Thank you for sharing the costs in such an open manner, and I hope that if people were to be considering negative style comments, then they put it all into context. It’s your home and you have to make sure it works! Simples. Again, thanks for the honesty and it gives us all the opportunity to make a wish list we can tackle a bit at a time knowing that they have been road tested by your good selves

[@johnmandy]

Hi Dave, that’s all very true indeed, we’d spend more if it was a house too I bet. Glad we can help in any way, we always hope we can make things easier for others. Thanks for watching as always 😁👍🏻❤️

[@lindahenderson2987]

What you have done is nothing different than updating/renovating a sticks and bricks. More power to you. Enjoy the journey!!!!

[@johnmandy]

That’s right..! 😁thanks Linda 👍🏻

[@petermurphy5903]

lots of good upgrades there and kept you busy for a while :),thank and stay safe guys :)

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Peter 😁👍🏻

[@SueElliott1]

Provided Mandy gets her coffee all is worthwhile. As a fellow coffee drinker I can empathise totally! Another great vlog guys 😍

[@johnmandy]

No coffee, no point starting the day!!

[@daveha6638]

Lovely sharing what you have done to make your van special for you to use

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Dave 😁👍🏻

[@carolemousdell4444]

Hi both, great vlog thank you! Mandy please keep us informed about your 'meat free march' dishes, I'm really interested to see how you can vary your daily meals and keep John happy!! Xx

[@johnmandy]

We are posting our meat free meals on Instagram. Feel free to follow us for daily updates.

[@RustyRoseAdventures]

Some very nice upgrades there, Looking forward to those upgrade videos!😊

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Max 😁👍🏻

[@randomtravel1489]

A very open and honest update on the upgrade costs that you have incurred during the last 12 months. It will be very helpful to most of us.

[@johnmandy]

Brilliant 😁👍🏻 thanks for watching

[@plove523]

The bad ass tires take you to the store to get the coffee.

[@johnmandy]

Haha.. they certainly do 😁😂👍🏻

[@montbrehain]

6am start in the factory , got my headphones on and listening to you. But like a lot of people out there... we have dreams ! And .. we have a 10 year old chausson Flash 14 on the driveway. And With your help and inspiration.. I am kitting it out 😆... we WILL make it happen !

[@johnmandy]

Glad you enjoyed listening to us at work 😁 good luck with all the upgrades, hopefully you’ll get to use your motorhome very soon 😁👍🏻

[@CraftyCampervanners]

Well that little lot came to considerably less than we thought it would. Mind you, with John being such a technical minded person you have saved a fortune on labour costs! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@johnmandy]

We are very lucky that John is so handy and good with all that stuff, like you say we’ve saved a fortune..! 😁👍🏻

[@karlliverpool4267]

Always enjoy your vids folks. Very good informal and informative. Keep up the good work. Been a lot of help between yourselves and greg virgoe on my very fist self conversion. Thank you.

[@johnmandy]

That’s fab, glad we can help.. thanks Carl 😁👍🏻

[@chelseajoyce5135]

It's great to see something interesting this early in the morning,

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Chelsea 😁👍🏻

[@megkennedy8888]

Lovely to see yous today was on last nite looking for ur video then realised it was monday nite son washed our van today just awaiting getting out in it see u friday God willingxxx

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Meg.. hopefully not long now 🤞🏻

[@ZerHour]

Great info on those brilliant upgrades 👍 I have solar and B2B ,I do occasionally on very dull winter days run a small generator (700 watt ) plugged in the hook up for easily powering my onboard 30 amp mains charger I calculate around 70 pence of fuel will get me bulk charge in a few hours up to absorb levels 👍

[@johnmandy]

Thanks 😁👍🏻 we’ve found running the engine to charge is pretty cheap too

[@ZerHour]

@@johnmandy yes mines a bit thirsty though at 3.8 litre commercial engine. Hey its pretty good solar lately with this sun lately ,any screenshots of your solar monthly graph ? Just being nosey love all that stuff lol 😀👍

[@johnmandy]

@@ZerHour we’ve just made some additions so I’m sure John will want to show off the differences in a vlog soon 😁👍🏻

[@ianofsjkartwork]

Well explained John & Mandy.........you have one lovely Home that you have vastly improved r to your own spec.........stay safe.......thanks for sharing

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Ian, we are very pleased with the improvements 😁👍🏻

[@mikeainsworth5840]

Great video guys. Thanks for all the very helpful information and advice.

[@johnmandy]

No problem Mike, thanks for watching 😁👍🏻

[@damiendavies786]

I am sure that every penny spent has been well worth it as upgrading for your own comfort is invaluable. Still working on our upgrade for more off grid stays. Stay safe you three.

[@johnmandy]

With the rise in campervan & Motorhome ownership it make sense to be able to make use a more basic campsites or even wild camping.

[@bakerkyson2450]

i dont mean to be so off topic but does any of you know a way to log back into an instagram account? I somehow forgot the password. I love any assistance you can give me!

[@leightonalberto435]

@Baker Kyson instablaster =)

[@bakerkyson2450]

@Leighton Alberto Thanks for your reply. I found the site thru google and Im in the hacking process atm. Takes a while so I will get back to you later when my account password hopefully is recovered.

[@bakerkyson2450]

@Leighton Alberto it did the trick and I now got access to my account again. Im so happy:D Thank you so much you really help me out !

[@billeileensadventures4611]

We've just bought our 1st van, it was already converted (not my total taste) and your channel has really helped us out and cost us a fortune, oh we need that and that lol. We just need to put solar panels on and fit our Fiamma Awning, then we can get out and about. Thanks for a great channel. Eileen

[@johnmandy]

I think we’re responsible for a lot of reducing bank balances 🙈 glad it’s all good stuff though. Not too long and you can get out and about 😁👍🏻 thank you so much for watching

[@michellechapman6961]

Enjoyed that, it took me back to our five year narrow boat of continuous cruising. We now live in static caravan in Cheshire for the summer months and Nerja in our touring caravan Jan to Feb so it’s back on the grid for us. Enjoy every minute of it. I am thoroughly enjoying your journey. Missed Nerja this year but with luck we will all be back travelling again soon.

[@johnmandy]

Wow, that sounds perfect..!! Do you ever miss a house in all that time?

[@michellechapman6961]

We have never missed a house and can not see us ever going back into a house again. We actually go to Nerja from January until around late May then home to our really wonderful static, not far from Altrincham. Life right now is as good as it gets😁☺️. We certainly don’t miss stuff and I bet you both will feel the same way

[@ML-jr1yz]

I bought mine in 2017 already converted but it was made for plug in campsites, i have been upgrading everything to 12v as off grid is more fun, like that beautiful mountains in spain and portugal where there is no campsites. I am still working on battery's wiring , i will ad soon a 60A sterling b2b.

[@johnmandy]

Off grid is definitely more fun, not forgetting a lot of campsites close over winter so you can still travel all year round 😁👍🏻

[@margaretwalsh7266]

Mandy needs coffee as I do and she does all those wonderful one pots! I'm trying your recipes! Cannot wait to take our caravan for a trip! Love Cooper, our dog Aisha says hi...🤗🐶🐕🐾❤

[@johnmandy]

Aww I bet you can’t - hopefully not long now 🤞🏻😍 glad you like the recipes too ❤️ Coop says hi 👋🏻

[@DA11NOON]

Thanks guys be safe 👍

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Stan, you too 😁👍🏻

[@commuterbranchline8132]

Great update, I guessed £10k off the top of my head, all the small thins mount up!

[@Nigel-nar53]

I loved that end shot, now I'm lusting after those wheels & tyres. 👍

[@johnmandy]

They are awesome.. we have a discount code for anyone wanting them too 😁👍🏻

[@garrystacey7018]

Interesting video thank for sharing keep safe both 👍

[@johnmandy]

Thanks for watching Garry 😁👍🏻

[@sosaidhrafferty4608]

Been looking at the tyres for our van, it's a vito and had a few slippery times with mud and snow and as its our only vehicle definitely think we are worth that security 👍

[@johnmandy]

Absolutely, these tyres have taken us to places and helped us out of places many times and are worth every penny 😁👍🏻

[@RetroBytesUK]

I love that you keep working on the van to make it better for you. I would love to move to lithium batteries at some point, but don't think I could justify it for my use as we don't live in motorhome. I think I will add another solar panel as we only have 375w, which when off gird for a week struggles to keep up if we get a day or so of less than perfectly sunny weather. When I replaced the solar controller in the van with a nice Victron one (thanks for the recommendation there) I bought one that could handle way more power the 375w.

[@johnmandy]

It’s mostly a “needs must” thing but good all the same. The victron kit is amazing isn’t it?

[@RetroBytesUK]

@@johnmandy It really is, I quiet fancy getting one of those b2b charges you've fitted recently.

[@peterwillingham6585]

Thank you both. My wife and I are planning a 50% van life from next year, a month away then a month at home. For people like us who are setting out, it’s great to get honest down to earth advice from two lovely people like yourselves. Kind regards Pete & Mady.

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Pete and Mady, next year sounds exciting for you both - where are you off first? ☺️❤️

[@peterwillingham6585]

@@johnmandy Spain will be our first trip, probably drive down to Gibraltar. I’m trying to learn Spanish at the moment... but with a Yorkshire accent🙄. We’ve got a Ford Tourneo custom which we have a blow up awning for. I’m building removable pods for it so that we can remove the seats when travelling and do a temporary conversion. The next stage is swivel seats, solar panels and leisure battery. We haven’t quite decided on the bed yet... permanent, rock and roll or inflatable. We will see how it goes living like that for a month at a time for a while, but I can already see us upgrading to panel van size within a few years if we enjoy it. I’ve followed a few of your videos from Spain but any advice along the way will be very appreciated.

[@johnmandy]

@@peterwillingham6585 Sounds exciting 😁 the one thing that stuck with us from this year is don’t just head for the coast in Spain, the mountains, lakes and villages inland are breathtaking and a lot of them offer very good facilities for vans too 😁👍🏻

[@peterwillingham6585]

@@johnmandy that’s a really good point thanks. We watched you visiting Los Angeles this morning over breakfast. Stunning. I was based in Gibraltar for a couple of years in the 80s and visited Alhambra palace and a couple of the parks. You have reminded me how beautiful it is. We probably won’t have the set up to be away from showers and water facilities for more than a couple of days. Will this be an issue for us further inland?

[@flapsfalkland5181]

Excellent video again guys! Our Betty is nearly ready for our first trip out, as soon as we can travel again! Everything is in utility wise, just a bit more titivating and then happy days! Will keep following your journeys (and upgrades 😁😁) Paul

[@johnmandy]

Oooh exciting..!!! Not long now hopefully 🤞🏻

[@flapsfalkland5181]

@@johnmandy fingers crossed 😂😂

[@elwanderer7903]

I love how Mandy is totally unflinching at the cost of coffee power 😂 Thanks guys, I've done the same as you and added bits to my van I wouldn't normally have shelled out for. I think after last year it's the way forward for a while to be as self sufficient and comfy as you can manage until things settle down a bit. Especially as campsites are going to be very busy when they open and will probably have limited services. I prefer off grid with a campsite top up when needed like you but it's nice to know even if you go there you've got back up in uncertain times 😊

[@johnmandy]

Totally agree there, the more you can be self sufficient the more choices you’ll have if you do need to find a campsite although wild camping out of the way of far better. A non cranky Mandy must be worth a fortune to John 😁😂❤️

[@blossomwithwillow3104]

You got to have your home how you want it. Enjoy your home 🙏

[@johnmandy]

Thank you 😁👍🏻

[@trishaustin9608]

i love watching your travels.very informative.your dog is amazing and well loved by you both.stay safe

[@eddiewoolfie3891]

You really love them wheels John (so do I but not allowed to buy a set as our van is relatively brand new). The total of upgrades might sound a lot but people have to remember the the Moho is you full time home. You wouldn’t get much upgrading or even maintaining a house with that amount. Great to see you are all doing well, Cooper 🐺 has been awful quiet in the past few videos, hope he’s ok🦴🦴 . You must be looking forward to things easing up allowing you to get back out and about. Anyway peeps take care and thanks for the Tuesday update. 🥰 😎

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Eddie, that is very true. Coop has been loving time out in the cold and mud here but that usually means more sleepy snuggles on the bed while he recoups a bit 😁❤️ thanks for watching 👍🏻

[@terrylaw1047]

Just discovered your channel and have subscribed, what a lovely down to earth couple.

[@shabirhussain3446]

Nice to see you both. As a fellow coffee drinker I can totally understand the need for extra power for the coffee maker. With all this extra power will we be seeing more wild camping? of course only once the release date has been given. Once again thanks for the informative vlog. Both of you truly keep us entertained. How is coops? Look after yourself. See you soon...byeeeee

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Shabir, it really is very important to have power for coffee. There will 🤞🏻 be lots more wild camping when safe to do so 😁 Coops is wonderful although needs a bit more rest nowadays ❤️ thank you so much for watching

[@alicebrewer8838]

Great video guys very informative 👍 missed Beautiful Cooper though 🥲💞 Stay safe xxx

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Alice, Coop was sleeping off a big walk 😁👍🏻❤️

[@bigcasey4143]

Another great and informative video.... It just goes to show that if you really want to be off grid and as independent as possible, it can be done, but investing to future-proof your van sure doesn't come cheap... I think it might be a good idea to buy some shares in Victron Energy though....

[@johnmandy]

Thanks 😁👍🏻 it’s definitely worth the investment if you plan to go off grid

[@kbiggs49]

Money well spent by the sounds of it fair play to you both very interesting info cheers.

[@johnmandy]

We think so too, thank you 😁👍🏻

[@markwhitehead64]

Hi John and Mandy really enjoyed your video really looking forward to seeing your next video keep safe 😷👍🏻

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Mark 😁👍🏻

[@lindagurnett8485]

Many thanks for your reply

[@johnmandy]

No problem at all 😁❤️

[@leeporter70]

great job guys.

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Lee 😁👍🏻

[@gallivantinggalantes]

Great video x

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Julie 😁👍🏻

[@michelleshee4011]

Brilliant worth every penny x

[@johnmandy]

We definitely think so 😁👍🏻

[@andreelliott6161]

Nice one can’t beat investing in your leisure that’s what I say to the mrs 😂 safe travels guys 🌈😊

[@johnmandy]

That is very true and when it’s your home and leisure you can invest even more 😁😂👍🏻 (why am I giving John more reasons to spend 🙈)

[@denisscott1134]

Hi John and Mandy 🤔 just us 2 Saying hi and thanks for this update 👍 sue and den 👍👍👍🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@johnmandy]

Hi Den and Sue, hope you’re well, thanks for watching 😁👍🏻👋🏻

[@jcbdiggers1]

Evening guy's iv spent 2 hours looking for the video clip off your power pack..its the one with touchscreen..thanks justin

[@johnmandy]

Here’s the link amzn.to/3rJ7FEy 👍🏻

[@diandmartydownes1611]

Hi you two. It’s all money well spent. X.

[@johnmandy]

Cheers guys, it certainly is 😁👍🏻

[@mars2100]

Lol, saving money as we 💩, love it, cracked me up.

[@johnmandy]

😁🙈😂💩

[@julietjones385]

Great video again x

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Juliet 😁👍🏻

[@linz_in_NZ]

Its sounds a lot, but if you'd bought an older house and had to have it re-wired and had central heating installed you would have spent a lot more - and that's effectively what you've had done to your home - though as an added bonus your electric is now free. All the big cost items will last ages too. The interesting thing was the small items, how little they can cost and what a difference they can make. Good info as always. Might have a look at one of those shower heads for my bathroom at home.....😁🚐😎

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Linz, that’s very true, spending money to save money too 👍🏻 the shower head is really good - loads of power too if you want it 😁👍🏻

[@martprice7726]

I suppose you'll update all that stuff and tell us in 12 months time what that cost. Good one John 👍👏😷

[@johnmandy]

I don’t think there’s much we can update to in the next 12 months.. maybe 2 years though 😁👍🏻

[@sportgliderider]

doing upgrades over the year you dont notice the cost, only when you add them up at the end of the year you have a sharp intake of breath.... but they are done now, so over the next few years of use there shouldnt be much to do. stay safe people.

[@johnmandy]

That is very true and worth every penny. Thanks for watching 😁👍🏻

[@simonbaxter8585]

Thank you for this, honest but still scary when totalled. Although you have "spent" that money, it is also interesting to consider how much might be recovered later either in (negotiating) increased resale value of van, or what you could remove to move to the next van. The leisure batteries are perhaps biggest opportunity?

[@johnmandy]

When we upgraded our last van we found that the value of the upgrades did equate to additional value in the van, we got back about 60% of the upgrade value in the trade in.

[@simonbaxter8585]

@@johnmandy that is good, I would have guessed about 33%. Every little bit helps...

[@geoffcampbell7846]

Great real world info for newcomers and experienced owners alike. I wonder if any commercial van manufacturers will take up any of your modifications and apply them in some form. Thanks for the insight, now coffee time me thinks.🤔

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Geoff, we’d love to work with one to give them a good insight on what they need to add to make great self sufficient vans 😁👍🏻

[@johnmandy]

They could offer the J&M explorer upgrade pack 😎😜👍🏻

[@geoffcampbell7846]

Great idea!! With the J&M sticker livery, black grill, black wheels and....BAD ASS tyres!!😄🤣😂🤙🤙

[@alexn5648]

On your links, I can find the link to the domestic usb blocks that you quickly referred to, that attach to you overhead lighting rail. Can you give a link please? Really interesting vlog. Thank you

[@johnmandy]

They’re a bit hit and miss to find so it’s worth a google to see what you can find 😁👍🏻 thanks for watching

[@stevem3534]

Wow that is some upgrade £,but you know what you need after years experience,

[@johnmandy]

It is but spread over the year it’s a little easier.. 😁👍🏻

[@barrydobie122]

Great video

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Barry 😁👍🏻

[@helmutoil]

Good on ya, every credit

[@johnmandy]

Thank you 😁👍🏻

[@iangill3005]

I put 720w on the roof and 360w of AGM, so yes it's alot of money but worth it. My only regret was that I didn't buy lithium batteries but at the time I don't think the technology for lithium in a motorhome was there. So when my AGM eventually die then I will change to lithium and hopefully be cheaper.

[@johnmandy]

The difference in the tech in lithium between the first time we had them and now is brilliant as they have Bluetooth now so no doubt they’ll be better later too 😁👍🏻

[@anousjka5295]

Ha ha, you made me laugh with "emergency poo" - last season we were starting to try to get our beloved cat Tom used to Vanning, generally OK so far, but when driving he always did a "Panic Poo" about half an hour into the journey (poor boy)...

[@johnmandy]

😁 you have to plan for all the kinds.. panic poos, emergency poos, nervous poos 😁😂 bless Tom ❤️

[@daveke110ck]

John I noticed you have not mentioned the new oven! Did you change it? How about using an induction hob instead? That way you wouldnt need any gas at all! Also noticed you added the extra 100amps of battery , stops the power dipping on the larger loads, great vid as usual.

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Dave, we didn’t change the oven as the space is a really awkward size and we can’t find one that fits 🙈 we’d tried an induction hob but thought it used too much power for our liking. We do have an instant pot and George Forman grill though 😁👍🏻

[@tartan_chicken_on_tour]

Hi Both. Great video again totally agree with and understand your upgrades. Must be fantastic to be confidently self sufficient. Two questions:- 1. Would you revert to original van spec if you decide to sell in the future or sell as a full time live in unit. (imagine there are people out there would die for your van) 2. Do your upgrades have any effect on your van insurance. As above great videos to look forward to. Thanks

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Malcolm, it’s definitely really helpful having John be so handy - he’s saved us a fortune. We left the last van as it was as it was a brilliant ready to go off grid van and would be very difficult to take everything off while living in it still so would most likely do the same again 😁👍🏻

[@desmondbeattie3954]

Great video once again thanks guys. Just wondering when you added all the things on your list did it increase the weight of the van much? Looking forward to your meat free meals and your onward journey once we are ‘let free’. Good luck

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Desmond, I think we answered that already - the batteries and fridge are far lighter than the old ones so all in we’re probably lighter than the base weight when we bought it 😁👍🏻 Thanks for watching

[@pauloinavan1336]

Thanks guys,I can show this video to my wife everyone I sneak out to my van to add "another" modification,and the inevitable question "how much was that"On a serious note most factory built vans come out of the factory as a stock one size fits all package,if like us you want to change/modify things to make daily life in the van more civilized why not?👍👍Paulo

[@johnmandy]

Hi Paulo, I’ve stopped asking how much things cost now 😁 I can see straight away how useful the additions are and the big items (batteries, tyres and fridge) have proved invaluable already. 😁👍🏻

[@Adventure_Awaitz]

Love you pair you make me laugh so much 🤣

[@johnmandy]

😁 thanks Craig 👍🏻❤️

[@RhysOrwin]

Great video as always! And as always, I have a couple of questions... I know it's likely covered in another video but are you running all solar through the 100/30 charge controller? I'm interested in your thoughts on over paneling. I have 500w on the same controller and am going with the logic that as long as the voltage isn't over the 100v mark then the over amperage is fine, just wasted on the incredibly rare occasion I generate more than 30A. The new Victron mains charger, does it work on 110v? It's been bugging me for months because they sell two variants and I didn't want to commit to one without knowing it could be used in Europe. Finally, this is a little trick I came up with to make the most of what I've got. I took a 880w 12v power supply from one of my Dell servers and wired it up to my DC/DC Victron charger. I put a breaker in between the DC/DC and the main battery so when I'm on mains I flick the breaker, turn off the smart start detection on the Victron and charge directly from mains as it will up the voltage from 12v to whatever is needed in the charge profiles on the Victron. It is quiet, cheap and works perfectly on both 220v and 110v. Like you, I'm not hooked up to mains often so the 30 seconds of faff to do the breaker and charger settings is worth it.

[@johnmandy]

Like you say 100v will get a max 30a, so I go with that, though I may swap it for a 60a to see if it does get more than 30a. Daz has a 60a mppt so we can have a quick test. Victron mains is 230v I think, I don’t think we’ll ever go anywhere that’s not 230v

[@jcbdiggers1]

Evening guy's iv checked your list off item's you have in your van..I can't find the garmin sat nav you used..looking into purchasing one as it had great hands free features..thanks 😊

[@johnmandy]

We’ve got a built in satnav now which is linked on our website 👍🏻

[@markhughes1252]

Great help advice thank you very much so helpful take care the the hughesys 👋👋♥️👍

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Mark 😁👍🏻

[@Seds245]

For the coffee why don’t you use a gas hob coffee percolator or just a coffee cafeteria. The percolator will do expresso

[@johnmandy]

We have to find and pay for gas but electricity is free (now we’ve upgraded everything..) 😁😂🙌🏻 plus I get a coffee in about 90 seconds using the Nespresso and I’m very impatient 🤪

[@stewartashling9893]

My upgrade is couple of van stickers .😁

[@johnmandy]

Bet they look brilliant too 😁👍🏻

[@dizzytak]

Mandy = Pure entertainment 💜

[@johnmandy]

Haha.. thank you 😁❤️

[@tonywheelybarrow]

Good video really interesting. Do you or did you have any problems with mould in the van over winter like another vantuber? Under the mattress from the garage etc?

[@johnmandy]

We had some mould and ice freezing in our over bed cupboards and a bit of condensation in the garage but our beds are on slats so they’ve been spot on 👌🏻😁👍🏻

[@johnallan5821]

Brilliant video mandy always laughing ur a lucky man spend spend ur only hear ones 👍👍👍

[@johnmandy]

Absolutely - thanks John 😁👍🏻

[@rolandelvert5549]

Hi you two, greetings from El Roćio! Di & Roland.

[@johnmandy]

Ooooh El Roćio..!!! Is it still beautiful and sunny with flamingos and storks? 😁❤️

[@rolandelvert5549]

@@johnmandy yes, it is. Today we hade 21 degrees and a lot Flamingos. Lockdown is relaxed, we had a beer in the sunshine at the bar!

[@katcankan7129]

Like you said it is your home. It's a good job John is a handy man or it would cost you more money to install it all 😊

[@johnmandy]

Absolutely, I’m thankful for John’s handiness every single day as he’s saved us a small fortune ❤️

[@katcankan7129]

@@johnmandy 😊💜

[@beesely1762]

Thank you, great vlog. Did you buy made to measure bedding or normal singles please? Thanks. Claire.

[@kevc8759]

It's a Wonderful life 🤗🤗🤗

[@johnmandy]

You know.. it really is 😁❤️

[@stephenjamieson1003]

Wow the cost of the batteries are quite expensive but as you say give yiu the power you need. Think the tyre costs were OK 👌

[@johnmandy]

Given the batteries last around 18 years they’re actually far cheaper overall.

[@johnmandy]

The initial outlay is more but for longevity they are a bargain. Thanks Stephen 😁👍🏻

[@lordbisnick3932]

Another great informative video. Did the battery upgrade impact much on your van weight. Looking at the wheel at the end has got me wondering if you take them all off at night and wrap them in a duvet. lol

[@johnmandy]

Don’t give him any ideas with those wheels, he’d probably put them in my bed and relegate me to the garage 😂 the three lithium batteries weigh the same as 1 AGM so we’re still better of on the weight 😁👍🏻

[@annemarsden2323]

My husband has tyre envy I however a with Mandy coffee every time 😱

[@johnmandy]

Good choice 😁☕️👍🏻

[@nicolettefarby96]

Hi, did you make a video on replacing/installing your 12v sockets ? Thankyou for your honest inventory costs.

[@johnmandy]

There’s probably a few knocking around as we’ve added them in a few bits - the 12v wiring vid would be a good start 😁👍🏻 thanks for watching

[@turnerwalker1532]

I’ve noticed on some these big “overland” campers they usually fit induction hobs to alleviate the reliance on gas, could you not have a stand alone one too and just plug it in when needed, I know it would use a fair bit of amperage but sometimes when you’re out in the boonies a quiet little Honda generator may be viable? Love your vlogs and really look forward to watching your vids on KZbin, take care both. 👍🏻👍🏻💖💖😊😊

[@johnmandy]

We cook using electric with an instant pot and George Forman grill - an induction hob seems to use a lot of power for the cooking time you get and we’ve worked our set up as we don’t want to carry a generator 😁👍🏻 they do look cool though

[@lucylovitt9583]

Stirling Power do a 1500w unit, and Vango do single 800w or twin units. I've check and both will start on low so no big spike loads. First time here and impressed with your choice of BFG tyres and I've chosen Polinovel batteries too - bc their multi cell and I'm expecting them to be more tolerant in 40° plus temps. Edit, I also have an Instant Pot and that's 1200w but I don't know if that pulses the power or is a constant draw.

[@lyndonbateman9849]

Hi John and Mandy, once we get our new motor home in a few weeks, hopefully, how much data might we use per month for a couple of fire sticks laptop use for work, and iPad, using a phone as a hotspot. Cheers Lyndon.

[@katcankan7129]

#10 ☕😀 Morning John, Mandy & Cooper

[@johnmandy]

Morning Kat 👋🏻❤️

[@pdriwsteve]

My wife also has a coffee addiction but it has to be Costa. I am guessing I have spent more than your total on coffee over the years LOL. It will be 44 years together this year so I suppose I`ll have to get used to it. LOL

[@johnmandy]

I love that everyone that loves coffee loves it a certain way 😁❤️ I think we’re both totally worth every penny 😂

[@craighall2585]

Hi John ive got 240ah of agm batteries, 30 amp sterling b2b, 360 watts of solar with epever EN50 amp mppt charger, no inverter so just all 12v, so from fully charged at 14.2 i can go down to 12.2 in just one evening, is that normal or something wrong, really appreciate your help, looking to upgrade to lithium but so expensive, and my stereo is naff and switches off randomly so waiting for your review on yours lol, thanks Craig.

[@markpowell5654]

Hi you two love the video of the real cost of van life now you have all the power have you thought about getting mandy an aobosi induction hob to save on gas all i say is use the power setting on it instead of temperature settings as ive been useing one and found it a great product there is a fan it runs only when on and cooling be good to each other

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Mark, we have been looking but haven’t found any low power enough yet but will take a look at that one 😁👍🏻 we’d also need to get different pans so that’s a thinker for me as I’m kind of attached to my frying pan 😂😁👍🏻

[@markpowell5654]

@@johnmandy hi john and mandy it has a maximum of 2000w but i only use the 1000w setting which boils water quite happy and it a true load the lower setting turn 1000w on and off to simulate the lower setting the 200w minimum is a very high simmer which i see is the only problem the pots and pans i use on it are a set of karcher hope this is some help it is £47.99 on amazon.

[@johnmandy]

@@markpowell5654 We just had a look and one is on it’s way 😁🙌🏻 we’ve not seen one that goes as low as 200w so thank you very much for the recommendation 👍🏻

[@ianemery7785]

At 10:27 you say that you can cook on electric. I can see how this is feasible (induction hob, etc) but we’ve never seen Mandy using anything other than the gas hob and never heard it mentioned. Was this a slip-up?

[@johnmandy]

I have an instant pot (pressure cooker) and a slightly new George Forman grill that both use electric - I’ve cooked on the instant pot in a few vids 😁👍🏻

[@gilliankenny8229]

Hi John and Mandy it would be interesting to know what the vans weight is now with all your extra goodies

[@johnmandy]

It’s actually lighter - the difference between the battery weight (1 AGM is the equivalent weight of our 3 lithium’s) and the fridge is enough for the solar panels, diesel heater and whatnot to fit into 😁👍🏻

[@Scud_and_thesTig]

Great round up of all the upgrades. Did you anticipate that amount within the 1st year? 👍💙❤️

[@johnmandy]

I remember having to convince Mandy it was ok to spend £1k when we bought the van to get solar, inverter and so on. Since then it’s not really stopped as we keep upgrading

[@Scud_and_thesTig]

@@johnmandy Password to proceed = Coffee ☕️😉

[@vwcaliforniaadventures6763]

😂 wish my wife drank coffee ☕ I could also call my upgrades " coffee ☕ power " 😂😂😂😎👍

[@johnmandy]

Haha.. hang on.. is my penchant for coffee being used for spending excuses..? 😁😂🤪 love it

[@williamcallaghan7411]

John u are going to be bored if no more upgrades great video and Mandy that is 1 devilish laugh u have keep up the good work and stay safe we can’t wait to get out in our motor home which I call freedom cause that’s what she gives us

[@johnmandy]

I’m sure he’ll find some other things to fix or change although hopefully soon we’ll all be too busy actually moving around in our motorhomes for there to be time to titivate - bring on kayaking and beach walks ❤️❤️❤️ hopefully freedom isn’t too for away

[@lindagurnett8485]

Hi were new to this blog not sure how it works (obviously not as teccy as you are) were interested in where you had your van cupboard modifications when you fitted the new fridge is it anywhere near Sheffield

[@johnmandy]

Hi Linda, no problem. The vlog where we had the fridge fitted which is vlog 61, has the full link to the website and details in it if you need them. The company is called All Things Timber and they are in Selby which isn’t too far away from Sheffield. Adi is an absolute pro at what he does and a lovely bloke too 😁👍🏻

[@rabfraser1234]

hi guys great video ,,bet you cant wait to get back to the Mediterranean ,,just one thing when i bought my motor home it had the fan thing already fitted ,,took my weeks to figure out what it was ,,anyway are you saying you dont need any toilet fluid with it ? or am i getting mixed up ,,wouldn't be the first time😊 ,,

[@johnmandy]

Hi Rob, we really can’t wait at all.. ❤️ If you’ve already got the SOG or Thetford toilet fan system you don’t need to use chemicals at all 😁👍🏻

[@jackhaddley2875]

Coffee power is the most important power there is, even better when you've got go anywhere tires to gain more coffee 😂😋

[@johnmandy]

Exactly..!! 😁😂👍🏻

[@FrankSluijter]

Bad ass tyres and 3 lithium batteries make the difference to go off road and off grid👍

[@johnmandy]

They certainly do 😁👍🏻

[@mrw9513]

Great vlog guys, although £9,000 sounds a lot, I bet the money you have saved on bills and travelling costs by being self sufficient off grid has more or less paid for itself already. And you have had an amazing time in beautiful locations too. So in all honesty it's money extremely well spent in my opinion. Hope yous have a lovely week and Best wishes and stay safe and well to you both and your families ❤️ 💙 ❤️ 💙 ❤️

[@johnmandy]

Thanks Mr W, you’re absolutely right.. the changes have all proved there worth time after time and because of them we’ve had some awesome experiences. Stay safe too ❤️❤️😁👍🏻