Vanlife Mistakes I 10 things we'd CHANGE about our campervan

[@FLUFFALUMP_FPV]

The two of you are shoe-per cute together, the abundance of personality practically pours from the screen.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that message is shoe-per sweet! Thanks!

[@MADMAXFILM]

perfectly said

[@floridaislandgirl1039]

I am a year late, but in our last RV we put a closet fabric shoe storage behind the driver's seat. You could put shoes in it from three doors. It worked great and just enough room.

[@vanlifesagas]

That's a great idea! Thanks for sharing with us!

[@NigelMcKinley]

You could add a low box in between the front seats that would store shoes. The lid could act as a tray to store items as you are travelling. Just check that it is low enough not to interfere with the turning of the front seats ;) For the rear doors you can get some door organizers with storage pockets, made out of fabric, to optimize your storage!

[@steveylupo9695]

I was thinking about that but with wheels so you could roll it out of the way to walk or swivel.

[@roxane444]

I have that in my van when I do long roadtrip and it is convenient ! It was low too so I could easily pass over it and when I wanted to swivel the seats I just grab it and put it somewhere meanwhile. ✌️So great Idea 😉

[@roxane444]

I have that in my van when I do long roadtrip and it is convenient ! It was low too so I could easily pass over it and when I wanted to swivel the seats I just grab it and put it somewhere meanwhile. ✌️So great Idea 😉

[@vanlifesagas]

That's exactly what will do! Brilliant idea! Now on the design team, Nigel.

[@vanlifesagas]

That's so cool. We're on it.

[@jennifermcbride1183]

What about installing a Lagun swivel table on the side of the cooking area, behind the drivers seat??. That way, you don’t have to change the cooking area at all, you would just turn your passenger seat around and pull out the swivel table to use with the passenger seat for your workstation.

[@jennifermcbride1183]

www.lagunusa.com/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwsuP5BRCoARIsAPtX_wEFsvOxaJxxLmSNMT9vS2XJwWBq0eDYyQ6pe3f6eeZWzQgIePjn2t4aAr1KEALw_wcB

[@VANquishedAdventures]

That was my initial thought as well

[@lilymae859]

Yes, was about to suggest that too! It’s something you could do now ❤️

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh that's really cool. We'd have the space behind the fridge to put it there as well. Smart!

[@jennifermcbride1183]

Vanlife Sagas yay!

[@Cydoffgrid]

Two things came to mind while watching: 1. Perhaps there could be shoe pockets strapped to the back of driver and passenger seats? 2. For the driver's seat work station... you might consider having a flip up table for more space? Y'all are so playful, its nice to watch :)

[@vanlifesagas]

1. Just scared it'll be in the way when swiveling the seat. 2. That's what we'll do. 3. Thanks for the tips. 4. Thanks again. 5. Okay, enough.

[@cindygriewe7001]

I was also going to suggest the flip-up for work station. Then you just have to put in the swivel for the seat and it can be more counter space when you need it.

[@melindamyers9869]

I liked this shoe rack solution 9 months after you posted it.

[@michellestratford9753]

I live in my Winnebago which is built on the Mercedes Sprinter chassis as well, so I have that same gap between the front seats. I've put a collapsible woven basket there to catch the wrappers, etc as the basket starts out flat so doesn't so doesn't take up space, and then expands as required. I'm really enjoying your channel and I LOVE that you're Canadian so I don't have to switch over all your links from US Amazon to Canadian, lol. Happy New Year!🥰

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that's such a good idea. A woven basket. Brilliant! Thanks for the recommendation. Just added another item to my list! Stay safe Michelle! Looking forward to seeing you on the road 🥰

[@yurii.lompart]

I think you can add table with laguna mount and use it: 1) from passenger seat for late night work 2) like additional table between seats while driving 3) like additional space for cooking And I think you don't need a swivel seat on driver side, because you would need to change a lot, only if you want to seat together.

[@vanlifesagas]

That is brilliant. Totally agree!

[@koningbolo4700]

3:22 I build a drawer in the passanger seat colomb (the driver seat has all sort of wiring and relays and stuff in it a so I can not use that space) which runs through the seperating wall. It is about 60 cm deep, 25 cm tall,, and 30 cm wide... plent of storage for about 8 pairs of shoes...

[@richardmorrey4555]

So we are building our first van and I have been searching KZbin like most people and have come across a lot of couples. You 2 are by far my new favorites!

[@vanlifesagas]

Awe yay! Thanks for being here Richard! It means the world to us. If we can help, please don't hesitate!

[@sprinterviews]

Hello - if you do try a side rack for your paddleboards keep in mind that it will seriously limit your visibility in the side mirror, purchasing a tow mirror will help a lot. I fabricated a side rack (the manufactured ones are $$$) on my Sprinter for my boards and it has been great, have driven thousands of kilometers and it is still solid. 🤙🏼

[@vanlifesagas]

Dude! Can you figure out a way to send a photo somehow? Looking forward to discussing this with you.

[@sprinterviews]

@@vanlifesagas sent an email to [e-mail]

[@kpehr1]

Oh Dang!!! I was seriously hoping there would be more posts about this!! Can you DM me your pics as well? IDK why you have FB and Insta pages with zero content on them as I know people would love to see this idea. 😊

[@RavenStew]

"Don't go cheap on what you sleep on!" Yessir!

[@vanlifesagas]

Hell no. We learned that the hard way!

[@marieclaudebedard6728]

Yep! We own a 1984 Westfalia and the thin matresses are the only thing I don't like about it ( and the fact that I can't ne bothered to learn how to drive with the manual transmission so my paterner is the only one driving but that's another story)😉

[@koningbolo4700]

7:33 I made my countertops and table tops with a 1/2 inch plywood and some lamelar flooring glued on top of it (trimmed out with some left over oak strips I cut to width) Lamelar flooring is basically a low deform plywood construction with a 4-5mm layer of a nicer wood like bamboe, oak or the like. I would go for bamboe though, bamboe is tough, hard and easy to clean... The tabletops end up being about 32mm thick and not that heavy at all...

[@laurencurrie7810]

I LOVE our front loading fridge. It's super deep and holds a ton of food. Worth it.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah. Since we've been talking to others about that front load, many people recommend not switching. Decisions, decisions.

[@catw6274]

Which one did you get? I have been searching for a front loading 12v fridge and I've had trouble finding any.

[@koningbolo4700]

6:46 leave the box style fridge... the front loading is a hassle: the cold air drops out the bottom when you open it and you will be on all fours when you need something from it... Just leave the cooler style fridge but put a longer slide mechanism...

[@slothyologyaguideintoathen8087]

4:38 try a table that extends in that space you can keep it and take it out when you gonna work or some sort of extension that folds so it doesn't take up alot of room

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh totally! We are for sure doing this in NEXT the van!

[@Impala_Lily]

Hey. Love your van! I’ll be embarking on this adventure in a couple of years and have watched many, many videos on van life, builds, do’s & don’ts, and found this video of your particularly helpful as I will only have 1 opportunity to get it right 👍🏼👍🏼 I saw an awesome idea 💡 for a work space on another channel (I would love to credit them but cannot remember 🙈🙈) - a pull out counter that sits flush under your main counter. This will allow you to utilise the seat when swivelled, and have a workspace ‘on’ your lap. You could easily do this especially since you mentioned that in your next build, you would move your cooktop more over to the left (when facing it). Also a shoe storage box in the bottom of the cabinet on the left as you enter. I’m a bit OCD so this is particularly important to me too. Thank you again for your valuable tips. I’m look it forward to this lifestyle but first, as I am in South Africa, and this is not popular here, the issue is to find someone who can do a build for me (or …. I will have to partner with Google tutorials and do it myself!)

[@koningbolo4700]

5:35 Maybe you can design a box which houses a cooler, a couple of cupholders, a snackdrawer/lid thing and even a table to use as the nighttime office???

[@Namdor2012]

Two wicker baskets, one upside down ( cut back out) with a material flap and one right side up..Put it in-between the seats you can put shoes under it and your goodies in the top basket while driving...All you need is a kind of holding clip or two on it to hold in place while driving, move it back and forth when parked..

[@wakantanka802]

Best approach, and Maybe a light ply pigeon holed insert in the bottom basket to seperate the pairs of shoes to optimize..Top basket could be shallow, and glue two cup holders in the front of it to hold drinks properly while driving...👍

[@Namdor2012]

@@wakantanka802 Yep, and just join baskets solidly together with strong velcro ( same colour as basket ) or clips, incase of thinking of a using top basket someplace else when parked if it's too high to swivel seats......All light and can match the baskets to suit the van...

[@wakantanka802]

@@Namdor2012 Haa we got it down now..Velcro is good as you could shift the top basket forwards up against the dash and put the plant in it and seat would be clear to swivel, noticed by looking they have cup holders...

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that ply pigeon is a good idea.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup! I think that's the winner! Thanks for the advice :)

[@keririder9456]

Maybe instead of putting the shoes right next to the entrance you could add some kind of shelving unit that slides out that also is level with the counter that would store shoes, and also give more room for counter space. I imagine like a spice rack that slides out, but for shoes 😂 For a work area maybe add some kind of flip table around the entrance to work on? I’m not sure how close the chair is to the entrance, but you could make the table fold down onto the side, the space where the sink is at 3:20 Just a few ideas love the video!! 💕

[@vanlifesagas]

That flip table around the entrance is amazing. That's exactly what we'll be doing! Thanks Keri :)

[@michaeljohn7398]

A hanging shoe rack, like a Mothers Apron with pockets would fit nicely on the left hand side when you come in the door. By hanging the apron by cup hooks you can easily remove it for cleaning, put the muddy shoes in the bottom pockets. The pockets are half shoe depth and only protrude 3" max into your doorway space. 😁 Cheers from Michael. Australia.

[@vanlifesagas]

that an awesome idea we'll definitely think about that ! Cheers from vanlife gatineau🧡

[@kismooreheart]

It’s just an idea but on the subject of shoes: maybe have a small rack inside with the mist used shoes fit run around like those slippers you wear. But then store the rest like Sandals and long distance hikers (the stuff your kinda preparing to go do) store them outside in a closed weatherproof cabinet. Ooooo ..no you won’t smell dirty feet. Make it a closed cabinet

[@vanlifesagas]

That's exactly what we do for boots: we have this storage box and it's been sooooooo amazing!

[@TheViewfromBethlehem]

Over the years I have found so many uses for my simple, folding TV table. Folded flat, it would fit behind the driver's seat. Opened, it could be a laptop table or, when driving, to hold your Mélange Fiesta et un Pepsi.

[@Lexykins2691]

I was thinking the same thing! Simple tv tray!

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh damn, that's good!

[@AnaLourenco89]

Hi just had a net in between the seats... like a hammock u can remove it if not in use and u can use it to store your belongings. Plus, behind the driver seat you can u can put a removable wall mounted letter rack to place ur shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we're aiming for!

[@Infrawgnito]

Be honest, Marie ... you only want a wee freezer in a new fridge to store your chocolate mint ice cream. LOL

[@vanlifesagas]

hahahahahahah I laughed HARD! You know me too well! 😂

[@ianbarr4716]

Like many of the other comments say, you guys are two peas in a pod. I'm smiling just watching how well-matched you are. Love it!

[@vanlifesagas]

:)

[@jvr4465]

Loved the re-enactment of the bed cushions. 😂

[@vanlifesagas]

It was THE SAME! Telling you! As hard!

[@Angel___333]

Kush ins

[@Angel___333]

Cuh shines

[@alyssaherring5027]

i’m using bungee cords attached to the lower cabinet for my shoes! just plop them in between the cord and the flat side and they stay pretty well

[@vanlifesagas]

That’s probably the most easy solution!

[@adaventures7080]

I have an idea for your shoe problem and a table in between the two chairs at the front! Get a wood box to put your shoes in then get a pole and screw it in the middle of the box and put a table on top! 😊

[@JeffKasten]

I was going to suggest putting some type of removable/swivel table in between the front seats, which could be used as a workstation. Your idea is even better because it adds another dimension for use when driving. Excellent idea!

[@vanlifesagas]

That's a BRILLIANT idea. Might be doing just that!

[@adaventures7080]

Glad I could help!!😊😊

[@franchurch7581]

We have a sloped shelf above the side sliding door for shoes.

[@azb2010]

Brilliant!

[@vanlifesagas]

I need to see this. Can you send us the picture either via Instagram of email please?!

[@franchurch7581]

Vanlife Sagas Sorry, have just seen this comment, will send via email x

[@sleeptherapy5146]

You could add a fold down swivel table behind the driver’s seat that way you have extra counter space and you have a table for the office

[@vanlifesagas]

Yaaassss! That’s definitely going in the next van.

[@MultiScrappydo]

You can hang an over the door organizer on the back of the passenger seat for your shoes. They are washable too!

[@vanlifesagas]

We initially tried that, but then the seat didn't swivel anymore. Oups!

[@Scorpionturtle]

you can do removable table mount between the seats to use it when you need it and remove when you don't.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing! Thanks for the tip :)

[@sophieevans8432]

Put a box between the seats, with a tray on top for food and a drawer underneath for shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing!

[@ashleighbaker2193]

Hey! Why don't you get one of those hanging shoe storage things that normally go on the back of doors? You could hang it on the back of the seat :)

[@nikiharris2848]

Exactly what I was gonna say! Great minds.... 😉

[@sassykat2000]

That's exactly what I was thinking! And hang it on the back of the passenger seat right?

[@raphaelrosenhagen5624]

... But what happens with it when you want to swivel your seat around? I imaging you need to dismount it to swivel...

[@ashleighbaker2193]

@@raphaelrosenhagen5624 then hang it on the hook about the door? It's that big of a deal

[@ashleighbaker2193]

@@sassykat2000 exactly!

[@poppydsvarietychannel7221]

All my other ideas were already suggested like the box for the shoes in between the seats with a nice little staying on top for drinks chips and low enough for swivel seat to still turn but if you want to put them on the back door in a net put a car Christmas tree air freshener next to them

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, I'm sure that would do the job! Those Christmas tree air freshener always work like magic!

[@sylviecaron6869]

Hello! For the shoes, I saw some people creating an open space at the entrance under the floor. Those shoes stay at the entrance but are not all over the place and hidden. I though it was a great idea. For a 2nd spot to work, you could simply find a small table (table pliante) that you put on your laps. Can also be used in bed.

[@vanlifesagas]

Open space at the entrance. That sounds neat. Do you know where exactly? Hard to picture where it would fit in our van.

[@sylviecaron6869]

@@vanlifesagas I understand :-) They build a hole under the floor so when you open the side door (where there's your sink), you can see the shoes in the hole. If you want, you can add a door that opens upward or you can leave it without a door. Hard to explain in writing too. I could call you if you want... or you can call me. I'm not going to give my phone number here though. So, if you have an email, maybe we can see when we can call each other. Je parle français (québécois).

[@sylviecaron6869]

À l'entrée de ta van, à l'endroit où vous êtes assis lorsque vous filmez, juste sous le plancher, il y a peut-être une façon de faire un trou. Je ne sais pas si ce sera possible avec ta van par contre parce que les personnes que j'ai vu faire ça, ça s'est fait lors de la création du plancher. Quand on ouvre la porte, on voit ce trou où sont placé les chaussures, mais ils ne sont pas partout et ça n'enlève pas d'espace de passage non plus. J'ai pensé d'essayer de l'expliquer en français, peut-être plus simple. :-)

[@Ohsage1111]

For the second workstation....if the drivers seat swivels, perhaps a folding moniter stand to sit in the drivers seat and a lap desk for the passenger seat? Shoe rack....behind the drivers seat, something custom with vertical cubbies for shoes?

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, that table would be gold. As for shoe rack, can't really do behind the seats as there is a refrigerator vent behind the driver's seat (kitchen unit) and the passenger seat won't be able to swivel anymore. It would've been perfect!

[@annettewornin7683]

Just love watching your antics, you are a perfect match and you just make me smile

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Annette! You're amazing!

[@deathbringer555666]

Hanging pocket that are used for tents for storage. With a little modification it could be put on the back of one of the seats.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup, we might put this in the entrance!

[@jean-lucliens4915]

9 and 10 shoe rack behind driver seat and pliable table on wall passenger seat

[@vanlifesagas]

I feel that space between the driver's seat and the cooking unit isn't big enough! Urgh!

[@jean-lucliens4915]

@@vanlifesagas you guys are like my ex-wife to many shoes lol

[@lindajohnson7838]

Space between seats closed cedar, (odor control), shoe carrier with a hard top to step on when accessing back of van. For snacks a divided hard sided cloth basket that can be hooked between seats during travel.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yoooo those are all too amazing. Linda, we might need you on the design team for our new van that we are building now.

[@lindajohnson7838]

@@vanlifesagas thanks...I think out of the box ....or in your case inside the box...there are soooo many nips and corners that are waisted space in most van builds...I would love to rebuild a van and travel but alas.....not in the cards for me....3 types of cancer....I am doing ok but must stick close to home.....my heart is full of wanderlust....so I travel via you tube with all of you. I really love what the van culture has opened up for those who can move about and experience new places and things....please share some of those places with those of us who are home bound....we live vicariously through you windshields. Stay safe out there😎

[@h.b.4058]

How about an elevated "false" floor so you could store the paddle boards flat under it? They could then easily slide out the back doors.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh man, oh man, if only that was possible. It would've been AMAZING! The only problem with that is the head space: Dom being 6'1, he wouldn't be able to stand in the van anymore. That idea is GOLD for short people. Good thinking.

[@h.b.4058]

@@vanlifesagas I was afraid that was the case. Oh well.

[@cretnotonic]

How about a wheeled basket/cart for the centre console up front? Put locking wheels on it for driving and wheel it out of the way when parked. Plus, a fold down drop table by the stove would work if the driver seat could swivel.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be aiming for! Once we get back home and have access to a saw and some wood, we're building a box to put between the seats for sure! Thanks for the tip! :)

[@RustyRoseAdventures]

Don’t move the cooktop, I would make a fold out over the swivel seat and then it could be extra space and good for working and chopping!!!! Love your guys van though 😍

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly, what we'll do! Thanks Max!

[@AdrianaLopez-nq7rb]

Love you guys! You remind me of my son Pablo and his girlfriend Taya who just bought their first van. I am looking at videos to help give them advice! Thanks for your videos. They are very helpful. You make me laugh! Wish I could meet you!!!!

[@lydiak.1254]

Is there an inside slide in slot you can build for the paddle boards? Then you can build the bed and cabinet around it. Side board storage would make it hard to park in spots.

[@vanlifesagas]

No, I wish. The boards are 10' long, it would take so much space! It's just impossible inside!

[@Jlakers1234]

I absolutely love the energy and vibes from you guys.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Andrew! Means a lot! See you every Sunday! 😁

[@posteroonie]

Flip out table behind the driver's seat, mounted to the kitchen cabinet? So you can work comfortably from the swiveled passenger seat and not have to move the stove. Also, there are dual-zone fridges that open at the top.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what'll be doing! Thanks!!

[@shammywadud]

Thanks for sharing guys. Here are my suggestions to make your life easy in low cost. 1) Build a shoe box between the chairs which can be used as a seat too . Keep wheelers underneath the box so it's easy to move ( the wheelers which have lock to stay in 1 place) and have a extra seat or a feet rest when you use the swivel chair. Also can keep a tray over the seat when you drive which will keep your foods/snacks organized. 2) Make an small folding extension at the kitchen counter to use it as a table for night time when you swivel the driver's seat as you have some space there . And this way you don't have to move your stove around. Lots of love ❤️❣️💗. See you next week .

[@vanlifesagas]

You, my friend are a genius. As recommended by others here as well, that's exactly what we'll be doing: a box between the 2 seats!

[@shammywadud]

@@vanlifesagas It's a pleasure. I love your videos, attitude, and vibe. Looking forward to the updates. Lots of love from Bangladesh.

[@claudi2205]

i'd add kind of a lagun table to the front of your fridge drawer as you just need to mount the plate and rest can be stored behind the drivers seat when u don't need it. it can be used as desk, counterspace between the seats when driving and also extra workspace when you cook.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh man. That's brilliant! We need you on the design team Claudia!

[@claudi2205]

@@vanlifesagas would love to, just let me know where and when! :D

[@benjiL04]

How have I not found this channel? This is literally the best vanlife channel on KZbin how do you not have millions of subs

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh thanks Benjamin! That's a big motivation boost right here. Just started this Channel 14 weeks ago now. Glad you like it! See you next Sunday :)

[@Rafael-ke4lk]

You can have a thing hanging off the ceiling behind your drivers seat where it has many sections to put shoes in

[@vanlifesagas]

Yes you could 😀

[@crankyoldbutchbuildsout2013]

I ordered the mattress for my tiny house, now in my van, from Cotton Cloud Futons in Portland Oregon! Under $500 for 4” Hard foam, I need a hard mattress!

[@vanlifesagas]

Did that include the fabric to cover it up? That's way cheaper than back home!

[@Feedback4Utoday]

So ~700cdn.

[@janeblonde_band]

Shoes... Use the cupboard in the sliding door area. Have door that opens to outside for walking boots and from inside to same space for indoor shoes.

[@vanlifesagas]

Good idea we'll see if it can work❤️

[@dmsarabia1]

HI, Here's a thought on the extra workspace for your late night work: Since the passenger seat swivels, how about a flip up table attached on the end of the counter where your sink is? Wouldn't that be doable in this van? I think there's an outlet or switch on that panel, but if in the way, maybe it can be lowered a couple of inches. When Marie was talking about the optimizing the back door, I also immediately thought of shoe rack net for your shoes. I'm impressed that the 2 of you can survive on only 7 gallons of fresh water. I was surprised that one of you changes was not a bigger fresh water tank with filter at sink for drinking water. Do you carry extra drinking water for you daily consumption?? Love your videos and enthusiasm. thanks

[@vanlifesagas]

For some reason, we're really good with our 7-gallon. It can last us 4-5 days. But we do refill our water bottles and drink from that most of the time.

[@cropsternut2]

Build cubby for shoe storage in between the two front seats opening to back and have top part have lip to holds snacks and phones and two cup holders that deep enough to fit most water bottles....

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly the plan !! Yeeeha! Thanks for sharing :)

[@rebeccastewart8639]

I freaking love you guys. That’s all, no helpful advice.

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahahah thanks Rebecca!

[@jeremywylie2936]

Do the office area. off of the passenger side. Mount a flip-up/down table from rear door. It would give extra table/office/kitchen prep space. And when not in use it would be out of the way.

[@vanlifesagas]

We're on it :) Thanks Jeremy!

[@cfrost87]

My suggestion for the front work station-- add a lagune table mount next to the passenger swivel seat. As far as the lithium batteries, you can actually use more of their capacity vs agm.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, I think the next batteries will definitely be lithium. Can't wait to get those!

[@spleerfloof]

I was thinking the same thing, add a Lagun table mount, but mount it behind the driver seat, on the side of the kitchen cabinet. Then you can sit in the passenger seat and use the table for a workstation. It also might swivel right in between the seats when you are driving as well.

[@charlieford5523]

For your paddle boards you can get a rack which you load on the side and then use a winch to take them to the roof and they fit on the roof rack with the carrier.

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh snap. Would love that. Have you ever seen something like that? If you send a quick picture via email or Instagram, that would be gold!

[@charlieford5523]

@@vanlifesagas customboatloaders.com.au was what I had in mind there australian but Iam sure there would be a company doing some thing similair nearer to you. There are also simple side extensions from the rack makers so that you can slide the board to the side and then lower it they are on ebay.

[@billmccaslin4198]

They make a steering wheel desk it's on Amazon

[@vanlifesagas]

Oh damn. I need to Google that now.

[@dianainthezone]

Shoes... How about a rack on the back of the seat? Or on the inside of the door itself if there's room... Between the seats... One of those Tables that would fold down and swing back into the space behind the driver's seat. A Lagun table or swing arm table? The electronics cupboard... What about mounting some of the units onto the lid? It would save space and make it easier to see read outs.

[@vanlifesagas]

Totally in for that table behind the seats! As for rack on back of the seats, they wouldn't swivel anymore, so that wouldn't be the best! About to get a Lagun table! woot woot!

[@macchiavellispielberg5300]

I just wanted to say I appreciate the puns more than she seems to. I needed the laugh from shoeper nice today.

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahah she's boring. 😂 have a shoeper wonderful week!

[@spencoutcast]

For the shoe problem you could get a little shoe holder that’s just fabric with pockets and hang it off of the passenger seat!

[@vanlifesagas]

We might be going for that for the next van!

[@JulienCournoyer]

SWEEVLE seat at the front: but do not change de cooking stuff: just insert removable table

[@emilyhabben2799]

Even a flip-up countertop extension would add the desktop you need when the chair is turn around without compromising the counter space to the left of the cooktop. It would be useable counter space when driver is facing forward but it didn't sound as though you needed space then.

[@missjennsmith6999]

That's what I was thinking Emily 👌

[@vanlifesagas]

BRILLIANT! So smart.

[@paulmeyer6190]

Get a folding or collapsible basket for between the seats. Can store behind drivers. They are cheap and handy.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yes, Marie was looking at those earlier this week.

[@TrustNotMyHeart]

Marie and I had the same look when Dom said "shoeper nice." Except I shook my head. Hahaha

[@vanlifesagas]

Hahah. That was the GREATEST PUN of all times!

[@ALMAPAGAN]

Also, I saw another van that used wide circumference PVC tubing and glue stacked them together to hold their shoes.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks we'll look it up😁

[@rizatacsagon]

Hope you check snow and curt yt channel for ideas that you might want to copy or improved on.Their van was created to travel for 10 years

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks for the advice! On it!

[@elizaanderson6363]

for shoes, get a door hanging shoe organizer and modify it to hang on the backs of your driving chairs.

[@vanlifesagas]

Thanks Eliza! We thought of it, but then the swivel seats wouldn't swivel anymore! Any other tip?!

[@BriBeaton3]

Just an idea I saw on another van, he built space under the floor that was accessible by the sliding door and stored his kayaks underneath his kitchen and bed. That’s my plan for myself for my van

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, we thought of that, but Dom being so tall, he wouldn't be able to stand in the van.

[@chelseafelker4782]

@@vanlifesagas you’d be able to have a small cubby area accessible from the back door... on one side. It would raise the heights of cabinets and bed/dining slightly, but not his walking area

[@dannyz5512]

shoe bag on back doors or your extra table area so can cook outside too? saw one van where they have a water hook up in back and open doors and put up some shower curtains and in close it for a shower...

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, we definitely need that! Would be much easier (and private) to wash!

[@Gimo76]

Driver seat is tough to rotate all the way around. We had a steering wheel that popped up and we still could only go a bit more than half. I had to resort to getting a small table to do my work by passenger chair and I liked it.

[@akau1340]

I switched to a vertical fridge/ freezer, too. You sacrifice a little bit in efficiency but it's much much easier to find and get your food out. I also raised it off the floor (being of the older generation) so I don't have to bend down so far. As far as your battery box, don't make it too small because you need some air circulation in there regardless of the type of battery you have. When my lithium batteries are doing a full charge the cables can get warm. As far as your paddle boards on the side of your van, I would never do it. And that's because back in the day I had ladder racks on the side of my work van. The wind noise was atrocious and on long drives I could see it reduced my MPG. Besides that, I think it would look like crap on your beautiful van.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that is great advice. Never thought of the sound of paddleboards on the side of the van, but that makes total sense. Thank you for sharing that!

[@haze8223]

Make a sliding desk for laptop or a clap table.. not a major job.. van looks great 👍

[@vanlifesagas]

You're right. Just a tiny thing. Thanks Rory!

[@nakitahowells5501]

The mattress! How about a mattress topper under your bed sheets ontop of the cushion/mattress? They fold up relatively small and could be stored in the space left between the back doors and bed/sofa maybe?

[@vanlifesagas]

Ouhhh that sounds neat! People recommended another sort of mattress topper but then folding it and finding a spot for it is a nightmare. Do you have a link to share for that small one by chance?

[@imscanon]

They have over-the-door type shoe racks and I saw someone modify it to put on the back of the passenger seat. Worked great.

[@vanlifesagas]

Does it look good though?

[@imscanon]

@@vanlifesagas LOL, I'd guess that would depend on how good looking you make it and how cute your shoes are. LOL You could always affix a cute cover to drape over it so you don't see the shoes.

[@slamboy66]

Get lowering racks for construction ladders To put boards up/down.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that’s smart 😮

[@marycapcap5646]

not sure if this was already mentioned but for the space in between the seats, maybe just have a collapsible crate/container/basket to throw ur snacks and whatnot during long trips. it would be foldable so it can be stored away, maybe under under the seat.

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing in the next build. Thanks Mary! You're the best!

[@abigailhall5601]

if you do a fixed bed with your nex build and have a swivel seat on the passenger side with a table for office work you could build a platform so your feet dont dangle that is also a place for shoes

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhh that's clever! Abigail, you are hired on the design team. congratulations!

[@MissKimSlightlySpicy]

put shoes in the door jam...if you will. The front seat door jams. its dead empty space quite often... What do you think?....not a solution for everyone but could work for you, maybe put some sort of mesh to corral the shoes for when you exit/enter van?... LOVE you two silly bugs

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, that's exactly what we do. Often, our sandals will go there! Thank you, silly bug yourself :)

[@wizzdumb_610]

I'm sure someone said it already but if not you should add a little thing to the back of your driver's / passenger seat for your shoes. Like I think they sell these things that would drape over the seat pretty perfectly & hang down just fine. Not too bulky. Just something that has little pockets you can neatly put your shoes in to keep them up off the floor.

[@vanlifesagas]

Can't really. There's a refrigerator vent behind the driver's seat (kitchen unit) and the passenger seat won't be able to swivel anymore. It would've been soooo perfect!

[@silverscreencc]

Hi. I think that Dometic roll-out refrigerator comes in a side by side freezer/refrigerator.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, it’s a bigger version I think!

[@dinahc.brennan9603]

You could raise the floor a few inches and slide the paddle boards in from the garage portion!

[@vanlifesagas]

We thought of it, but then Dom wouldn't be able to stand in the van anymore. He's too tall!

[@laureldell7377]

I know this was 4 months ago but for the workspace and table for objects when travelling you could build a collapsible swivel table that stores tight to the side or back of the seat. Ive seen many in minivans.

[@vanlifesagas]

That is exactly what we had in mind, until we decided to sell the van. Big news coming next Sunday on our channel! 😃

[@cindishaheen7397]

If you build something for munchies you can’t spin chits. Just use a cute basket to hold stuff. A catch all spot that can move around.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yup! Working on that!

[@vanpediem7641]

I put a Lagun table mount on the side of the counter directly behind the drivers seat. The table matches up nicely w/ the passenger swivel seat. I do slide the drivers seat all the way forward. The table top stores between the counter and drivers seat during transit.

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah! I think we have to get us a Laguna now. You're right!

[@schmeggynz]

You don't need a swivel driver seat. I think you could put a swivel table in that space and when it's not in use you could put the top down. Also that space you could get a basket for your shoes. There's a lot of space behind that drivers seat.

[@vanlifesagas]

Unfortunately, we can't put much behind the driver's seat because that's where we ventilate the refrigerator, but all in for that shoe box between the seats. That's an amazing idea for sure!

[@ellegraham8559]

For your micro tiny office why not add a flip 'down' extension to the end of the counter, would act as a cooking splatter saver when up and a desk when folded down toward the driver seat!?

[@vanlifesagas]

Okay Elle! We need you on the team. Those are GREAT ideas!

[@ellegraham8559]

@@vanlifesagas I'll be on your team anytime!! 😆

[@ellegraham8559]

@@vanlifesagas question for you re storage ... what is the name or link for the large storage box on the outside back door of your van? I tried to find the video you mentioned it was in but i couldnt find it! Thank you!

[@koningbolo4700]

13:30 With a dinette which has to morph into a bed and back twice a day you can't win on either front: Seating cushions make horrible matresses and good matresses make even worse seating cushions. If you can do a layout in the new van in which you have the dinette seperate from the bed that would be great... And a related tip: build for you two lovely people and not for those visitors which may or may not come over not that often...So a nice comfy bed with a real matress and nice bed bottom (slats which fold up maybe) and a two person dinette which drawers under the seats can be pulled out and covered to become a 2+2 person dinette in seconds...

[@oldslowjim]

A top opening "frig" is cold on the bottom, and cooler on top. This is thermodynamics. If you choose a front opening "frig" you will have higher energy consumption with this choice. Decide. If you have two units, "refer" and "freezer" or try dry ice. Availability is an issue with dry ice.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ahhhh so hard to pick from. We have seriously no clue what to do.

[@ravenwolf79]

I love my Engel top opening fridge. It is both a fridge and freezer. You set the freezer temp to where you want it and the fridge part sets automatically to 20 or so F degrees higher. Absolutely sips power. Pricey but worth it.

[@susanstillwell6305]

For between the seats: A lightweight box that holds shoes, is moveable for turning seats and walking between, and the top holds snacks and etc.

[@vanlifesagas]

Ohhhh that's a good one! Totally adding that to the van!

[@tamarabaker3665]

for shoes you should put a hanging/door pocket storage type thing on the back of the passenger seat!

[@vanlifesagas]

Yeah, we are thinking of this!

[@cuns4702]

Good morning from New Zealand, For your 2nd van why not raise the floor from the back to stop behind the seats. You could slide surfboards underneath from back & make a light weight sliding draw as you enter to put your shoes onto. Plus you could add an other sliding draw by surfboards for more storage. Between the console you could create a collapsible box to hold snacks but then it also adjusts in height to use as desktop. You could add cutouts below either side for your feet to rest? One of my many crazy ideas! Love you guys. Safe travels. Claire

[@vanlifesagas]

We can't really raise the floor. Dom is 6'1 and needs the head space. But yeah, between the console, we'll definitely add a box to store things.

[@icesreacts2557]

put a remove or swivel table between the seats also could be more counter space and desk if need

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly what we'll be doing in the next van. Hope I didn't spoil that for you!

[@vermontday2]

For shoe storage, get a Youdenova 15 inch storage Ottoman ($22) from Amazon and set it in front of your door. It provides an extra seat that is the perfect height for looking out the door window.

[@vermontday2]

If you want more counter space and a place to eat breakfast while sitting on your new Ottoman, install a 12" drawer slide to the side of your cabinet by the door and two screws under the lip of your counter protruding down. Then take a thin bamboo or plastic cutting board and cut two notches in the cutting board to slide over the screws. While it is only fully supported on the two sides, it is surprisingly sturdy. Home office location?

[@vanlifesagas]

Exactly the plan: that ottoman sounds like the best idea for sure.

[@neomafoxx7624]

I would adjust the electronics a bit and put an open cubbie there for storage. With accessibility from the top too. I love your channel and look forward to more videos.

[@vanlifesagas]

Couldn't agree more! As much as we love our electric set-up, and takes up way to much space!

[@msf2126]

This gave me an idea that you didn't bring up. Maybe you can't in yours. but I just realized in my van I might have space for an external underfloor drawer where shoes can be stored.. Even when all dusty/muddy..on a wet day in a hurry.. Hmmm

[@vanlifesagas]

Do it. DO IT!

[@swinderlich]

Keep your fridge. Get a separate top opening freezer that can fit between the front seats to double up as a mini snack table. Add hanging shoe storage pockets behind your seats in the cabin.

[@vanlifesagas]

Wow thank for sharing that with us Susan 🧡

[@clodh61]

for your micro office install an Lagun table on the corner of your cabinet and it with resolve at the sae time the problem for your goodies on the dash it could slide between the 2 seats too ,,,, so 2 for one usage ;)

[@vanlifesagas]

Absolutely what we'll be doing! Thanks for sharing!!

[@keefy302]

For the vanlifers out there that are looking for mattresses or cushions for sleeping on, or long seating I’d recommend 38/200 density foam, dunlop (tire/ rubber/ sporting goods manufacturer) and Joyce have good options. in comparison 36/160 is good for back cushions for seating but I wouldn’t recommend sleeping on it.. comfort is paramount in a van and seating/sleeping is where you will spend a lot of your time so invest in your comfort.. also you can have soft mattresses and hard cushions density/ rebound ratings dictate the application not wether it is a “mattress” or a “cushion”

[@vanlifesagas]

Sorry, the cushion-mattress thing was lost in translation. We tend to separate the two based on how dense and/or useful they are for sleeping. Thanks for your advice!