Why Big Campers Aren't Good For VanLife in the UK

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Install Airalo today here try.airalo.com/HappyDays so you can stay connected anywhere you travel, and use our code HAPPYDAYS3 to get $3 off your data plan

[@mr__daly]

Slow down, Liam. Don't rush the Canada trip. Plan it out and do it right. There's plenty of shorter road trips/weekends away/videos you can do in the UK (building up cash too) before you go to Canada in the Spring time. You guys do everything at 100 miles an hour. Slow down. Peace and respect from Ireland !

[@mariannecolley7096]

Have to agree here. We live near Toronto and Canada can suck for travel in winter. You will enjoy our country so much more in the summer!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

The only thing we have been in a slight rush for recently is getting a roof over our heads again haha

[@mogsev1006]

Why don't you join Housesitters UK and you could probably find housesitting accommodation for a lot of the time you are waiting. You might have to look after animals but I know you both love them.

[@premasru]

Just starting to read the comments after watching the video when it streamed. I love the comments for all their wise advice, tricks and tips for Liam and Janine's wild adventures. ❤ This next adventure is sure to rival in India with Pete the rickshaw. Take it easy guys. Remember Shiva and all will be auspicious 😛

[@longlivefreedom9853]

Yeh but what we dont want is the perfect trip either because that would be boring as..... Are you a virgo ? 🙂.. If the van they are using has the right tyres , low mileage and all the essentials plus a reserve of money incase of emergencies . Dont forget some people ( other youtubers ) have circumcised the world on just a motor bike or bicycle and seen light at the other end .

[@mattwoodford1820]

Some friends bought a pickup and a flatbed camper out in Canada before they left the UK. They allocated time to make modifications and then went traveling round Canada and the US. Sounds like most Canadians have been super friendly and helpful to them

[@geraldnixon6511]

Whatever van you buy you want to make sure it's serviceable in the US

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Totally

[@m4rk4nderson]

I had a VW California until just over a year ago. If you can live without a shower and you'd like something coachbuilt, manoeuvrable, easy to park and relatively stealthy maybe they're worth looking at. Also, you can get them serviced or fixed anywhere in the world. Heads up: they're not cheap 😬.

[@KAG0077]

My parents have lived in California for around 25 years so I’ve spent a fair amount of time in and around the US and I’d personally go for a hard top to give you that added security! Especially if you plan to stealth camp. Good luck with the van hunting 👍

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Amazing thanks for the tips 😀

[@gregsimister2396]

Ex ambulance? Just a thought

[@Fina-x5n]

California is nothing like the UK! Nothing!! It's actually the opposite. UK doesn't have wide roads & low population density with space to park & drive like you have in Cali. Be open minded. Realise not every place is the same. Do better.

[@heatherzstuff3768]

Hi I am from Canada and i watched a lot of your series of when you went to india. There is a lot of imigration here in canada from india right now and i have to say thank you for your videos because it helped me to understand the indian people in a posative way other than what others might say. They are a beautiful people

[@ThoseHappyDays]

That's great to hear, we love India and their people ❤️

[@richardayres2949]

Ford transit custom high top, the L1 H2 is only 5.97 long, 2.4m high. The high top means you can stand up inside and it’s warmer. Just come back from 3 months in Scandinavia in my Auto Campers Leisure van through northern Europe Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, got to Nordkapp at the top of Norway.

[@exploringavenues2269]

I had a motorhome - too big and have a Berlingo now - ok but a bit bigger would be good. So have been looking into L1 H2 customs. Do you have a rock and roll bed? It seems most L1 vans have them but seems awkward to have the kitchen at the side and the view forward would be the front seats rather than out of a window. What is your experience?

[@MrTyger11]

Richard, where you in Belgium earlier this year? If so we met you there, we were in the orange autocampers van😊😊

[@lorraineselby]

Good to hear that you’ve really thought about this. I hope you manage to find your ideal vehicle/home soon. Looking forward to seeing your next adventure. Stay safe and happy travels xx

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much, it takes a lot of thought but also we've done a lot of trials and errors haha

[@susie5668]

Slow down Liam take your time finding the right van be in no rush! Looking forward to see you both soon ❤❤

[@paulinedewsberry4740]

If the van is for long time I think the last one for me, make the right decision for you both good luck on your adventure

[@helenlizzystewart4908]

lots of comments to ponder, but I guess you have already sorted something, I also watch a lot of RVers in America, my. 2 cents worth don't buy too small as the distances you travel over there are huge and you do not want to break down anywhere.....just saying, all the best

[@MartinHouse-yu2tg]

Good luck finding a van. A bit of advice is, Avoid Transits with the WET BELT engine. Look it up,, they are really bad news. Oil & Rubber don't mix. Hope that helps.

[@bield7]

Definitely. They're still suffering catastrophic failures due to the ridiculous wet belt they’ve featured for years.

[@martinhouse1399]

@@bield7 Ridiculous is the right word for sure. Unbelievable is another.

[@KiwisFlyTheCoop]

We’ve been living full time in our Carado V337. It’s a compact coach built MH - same width as a van at 2.1 but a bit longer 6.6m. Permanent beds and spacious b/room, basic but practical. Good bang for your buck.

[@mikerm715]

At a guess, your preferred choice would be a 2.0 litre diesel VW Caddy Maxi poptop. Seems there are a number of companies doing professional conversions on this platform. An alternative for you would be a suitably sized, professionally built, Ford Tourneo Connect with a poptop. Good luck with your quest for the perfect mini home on wheels. Mike RM

[@MrClarkey73]

New shape Transits are in Canada there's an actual company that sells and rents them as campervan builds

[@OurWedding2012]

We have a 6m boxer, Calders Conversion, the layout is fantastic, never seen in another van, plenty space, plus room to read your Telegraph in the loo and not bump your head whilst trying to wipe your arse. Can send you photos of layout, the deal we bought it from is now coping the design in their van conversion builds.

[@heather333]

To be honest, why not look at rentals for your USA trip? Insured and worry free.

[@rodriguesfa271]

Expensive! They want to go to mexico and maybe south América with rental car is impossible

[@louiseshekell4902]

Given how Janine feels about the cold, I'd wait til Spring to go to Canada! I spent a year in Ontario in my youth, the cold was unreal! Also in the Summer, especially in BC, theyre suffering a lot with forest fires! That said its a fabulous country. Good luck!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

You are right, the world is in a crazy state

[@heathersullivan8833]

If you have a very small wood stove in your van you will be very comfortable traveling in Canada in winter. They have them for boats, people live on their boats during winter in Canada. The Sardina, the little cod, I remember these were names of 2 tiny woodstoves

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Great shout

[@heathersullivan8833]

@@ThoseHappyDays We moved onto our boat in May, there was ice on the floor in the morning, We left New Brunswick in September and began our trip south to Panama. When we were at anchor we had no heat only lots of wool blankets and it did not really feel warm until we were in the Bahamas in December. There are many utube videos about van life in blizzards with a tiny wood stove and you would be toasty warm. With the stove you do not feel the same pressure to travel so fast to make it south and you can travel at your own pace and explore

[@stevetrummfilmproductions9835]

So…my approach is based upon ‘dead van’ replacement. My sprinter ex fridge came insulated…add windows, webasto, and the rest is portable. Thetford chemical bog, battery powered rechargeable shower, jet boiler, heavy duty plastic storage boxes and an ikea fold out sofa bed. Van is epic but it breaks? I can buy another van and it’s ready to go in ten minutes needing only the webasto fitting Power off a Jackery so zero wiring and solar panels that fold away. Ultimate flexibility!

[@e.smiles450]

VW California beach , swivel seats , pop top, reliable, sliding back bench seats. Top down, blacked windows , built in blinds it’s also full stealth mode. Cons, no factory fitted toilet or water or sink. easy to buy fit ins though. It’s a winner .

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yeah they are beautiful things

[@Fina-x5n]

pop tops aren't useable in most UK free parking spots due to security risks / crazy people / teenagers

[@e.smiles450]

@@Fina-x5n I use it all the time , granted sleep without the top popped most of the time due to not needing to pop it unless keeping the dinner table set up .

[@LostLawrence]

As someone in Atlantic Canada..no one will want to land here in Fall. The logistics of winter would be complicated. We have a camper van and all vans here get winterized by October, which removes water from your daily lives. Your tires will need to be appropriate for below zero temps or even snow. Most vans are not coach built for Canadian winter, so the condensation wreaks havoc on your van inside walls and unseen places. Arriving fall just means it isnt something you drive through over a few days or weeks. Get in touch if we can help you with landing near Halifax Port when you do arrive. Note that when you check winter weather, Halifax is much milder then 2 or 3 hours down the road. Better indication of east coast weather is Moncton or Fredericton!

[@maxuzb]

well...honestly, 06:00 here we have a truck, not a van. since many countries has similar traffic categorization, van can be driven with B cat.licence (car) while truck needs at least C cat.licence. therefore many people will not struggle to go through truck exams just for that.

[@greypilot2430]

Just watched your lovely video as we (spouse is Canadian) are currently sitting in our RV, in a campground in beautiful Southern Alberta Canada. We RV vacation in Canada every summer (never in winter because of the potential of several days in a row when the temperature never gets above zero). You are wise beyond your years to research all the aspects of your trip. Can't wait to continue following you on your great adventures. Best wishes and good luck.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you that means a lot! And best wishes for your current adventure in Canada 🇨🇦

[@annettemills-xx7jw]

We have a Hymer Van 512. It’s 6 metres long, has a fixed tranverse bed which is long enough for my partner who is 6 feet. It has toilet, shower, small fridge and 3 gas hobs and a sink. It’s on a ford transit base. It’s easy to drive and has been very reliable. We love it. We are planning another European tour next year for up to 9 months using non Schengan countries to get over the 90/180 day rule. I think this type of motor home would be ideal for you. But I’m sorry to say ours is not for sale! Annette

[@yorkienick_og]

If youre looking at getting to Canada at the start of winter, wouldn't you be better looking for a 4x4 van to minimise the chances of getting stuck. Have you spoken with Alex Frood as he has got lots of experience driving round the Arctic in winter in shocking conditions, and he would be able to advise you on what equipment you need as minimum (engine preheater etc) to cope with the harsh conditions. Good luck, can't wait to see what you buy and the trip of course. 👍🏼

[@Anathchar]

We had a Hobby. Rear fixed bed, corner shower/toilet, heating, for shower water. And blown air. Was 4 berth on paper but for 2 was great. 2L diesel engine. Sounds just what you need. No idea what model would compare now. ❤

[@johnbellamy6449]

thanks for keeping us up with your plans . i really look forward to you coming on utube . well done with your plans ,seeyou next time .

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much!

[@nickwood7223]

Hi . Call the travel beans they have a van in Colorado stored . Something to.think about.

[@robertrobertson8655]

Hi guys, Isuzu Camper 4x4, have a look, a solid engine and 4x4, all motorhome interior, hugely reliable, very spacish, and will fit in 60% and more for parking, don't miss out by, by passing it in your search.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks for sharing!

[@robertrobertson8655]

👍🤓👌

[@ourlinkzrelaxingmusic1219]

I also think hard top is the best option for full time stay. The wind and the weather is going to be a big problem and it’ll be harder to occasionally “stealth camping”in the city with pop tops. Anyway, Good Luck guys!

[@jonpluck3340]

So much going on!!! If you want agility and all year round comfort then perhaps a campervan with a non-pop top, a hard top H2/H3 so you'll be warm all year?

[@Kirimoon67]

Lots of Happy days ahead guys!.. VW krafter could be a viable option … but whatever you choose i know it’s going to be the ‘right’ one for you this time… long term .. blessings ⭐️

[@novicehiker]

So excited for you both and looking forward to the next chapter! We are looking for our own first van having hired a few different options (not for permanent living, just for holidays, weekends and hopefully a few longer trips) and that shopping list really is such a personal thing. I have no doubt you will both find something perfect with the various different types of van you have lived in and all your experience with van life and different kinds of travel. Wishing you both well.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

What's your ideas for a new van?

[@amyone11]

Thanks for update I.m sure you guys will find the perfect van. Goodluck with your plans Xxx

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much for your support

[@johnallen148]

Buy one in the USA then it’s left hand drive got all the sewerage out for on site camping it works out cheaper it cots a mint to ship a vehicle to USA ask tread the globe,good luck 🙏👀🇬🇧👌👏🙌👋

[@yorkshirecoastadventures1657]

I wondered why they were shipping a right hand van over there. My gut feeling is they will head south from Canada,cross the States and then head to Australia with the van next. Just a feeling about these adventurers I've been watching for a few years now.

[@dougb100]

If your landing a van in Canada during the winter months suggest you check snow tire laws as in British Columbia it is against the law to drive in snow without snow rated tires. Suggest you check difference landing in Vancouver instead of the east coast as winters are much milder.

[@gmslaughter3504]

Sorry you 2 are having so much trouble trying to get to Canada/America. Praying you find the perfect van for the 2 of you. Maybe finding the right vehicle and getting used to it in the UK might be helpful while waiting to continue your next adventures. Prayers for safety on your journeys as well.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yes we are in no rush 💚

[@juliemccarthy2081]

Good luck with your plans. Hope you find the perfect van / new home looking forward to seeing your next adventures in America 🇺🇸

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks so much!

[@veganvocalist4782]

you have both worked so hard , you deserve every good thing in life , much love from Cornwall , UK 🥰

[@ThoseHappyDays]

@veganvocalist4782 thank you 😊

[@sarahsanderson6314]

Nissan NV200. Amazing little van. Short, compact. Economical. New York taxis use them. Versatile. I love mine.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

We love them!

[@HowlingWolfLeather]

I’m in the process of choosing my vehicle, so this was incredibly helpful and has given me a lot to think about. Thank you

[@basilsmum]

Have your looked at the Auto-Sleepers Kingham? Blimming lovely!! 😍

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Will take a look thank you

[@Heinz57ish]

I've had 2 fiats, 2 transits, one Sherpa and a Kangoo micro camper . . . Still looking for the perfect camper! Currently doing car camping in a Vauxhall Meriva. I think ideally I want a high top SWB. Getting old now so cannot do bedtime gymnastics!

[@gmslaughter3504]

I've watched you guys since just after you bought/lived in Frieda. Come a long way.

[@rebbar64]

You'll find the right van, keep looking.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you 💚

[@davidclarke2327]

Hi Liam: We live in Eastern Canada (Prince Edward Island). Don't be in a rush to get here asap. Snow season starts typically late November, but we do sometimes get early snow. Late December to late March is the snow season. Temperatures can dip to -15c at night and wind chills can be -25 to -40. Two primary east coast ports - Halifax NS and St John's NL. Halifax may be the better choice as the winters are less severe. If you arrive late October or early November, I suppose you could drive to Maine (Digby, NS to Portland ME ferry) and enter the US to drive south to the warmer weather. If you want to tour Canada first, maybe wait for Spring 2025. Enjoying the channel. Happy travels! Dave

[@amandasmith3716]

I’ve wanted to visit Prince Edward Island ever since I watched Anne with an E (Anne of Green Gables) on Netflix. I’ve been to America but never to Canada even though it appeals to me more. Hopefully one day.

[@davidclarke2327]

@@amandasmith3716: It is indeed a wonderful little Island...a Canadian Province of about 170,000 people. We love our Anne....and our lobster suppers...Indeed, I was over at Green Gables just last week for a book launch - all L.M. Montgomery's collection of Anne books just translated into.....Thai! We also were treated to great meal afterwards as well! So yes, visit whenever you can. Always a warm welcome!

[@amandasmith3716]

@@davidclarke2327 sounds a delightful existence. Will visit within the next couple of years.

[@janetthird9947]

Hi, I would wait for the spring! Your van will ship to the East coast of Canada, lots of snow and many places are closed, etc. the spring is beautiful and your 6 months will take you to the fall for the colours etc, too!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks for the insight and advice 👍

[@lynne2774]

Romahomes are brilliant, I don't know if they do the engine you're looking for. My 1994 citroen c15 is NOT what you need but I'm hoping mine will be of my garage's ramp after over 2 years waiting! Good luck with finding your new van.

[@BLUESKY-zt1nv]

just an idea ...ever thought about getting a Robin Reliant ...? they are very reliable ,ok they are a 3 wheeler ..however you can fit a double bed in by rolling the seats down ..cheap to insure , run and easy to drive and park ..america would be a breeze in a Robin Reliant ..

[@gregrodrigues5453]

Whichever van you buy please ensure that it runs on Petrol. Now more countries have decided to stop diesel

[@chriskeighley1589]

Ford Transit custom. Try to avoid diesel as a lot of diesel vans are having problems with ADBLUE nox sensors. Still think you should contact Happy Campers in Iceland. They sponsored "iceland with a view" and im sure they would be up for a bit of a bargain, especially given the number of subscribers you have. 3 months the while your vans being built sampling all those hot spas and finding waterfalls. You will not regret it!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Haha sounds perfect!!!

[@aha2551]

@@chriskeighley1589 if one is even a little handy ~ it's not too onerous to de-scale Adblue nozzle. I'm unsure how much to replace a nox sensor --- But I'm not suggesting diesel necessarily. Diesel is smelly. So far I haven't found my euro 6 adblue Luton too smelly 🤫

[@chillipig]

And these: Ford Randger 560 4x4 AWD. Toyota Hiace Autarky 4x4. And don't forget the Truck Campers, you can get some really innovative ones. Good luck both, best wishes, Wayne and Charlotte x

[@matthewH6763]

There are some good pop top fitters for the transits a d sprinters now. I suggest a L2 van (less than 6m) but with either the H2 roof (2.6) or H1 roof with a pop top. If not wide enough it is easy to get the widening panel where rear window goes. Good luck.

[@rosscov0679]

Try an electric van, a purpose built one like the ID buzz VW, converted might be better than a diesel van. Reliability etc and if you could utilise the main van battery a leisure system would have massive amounts of power

[@phylscircus2]

My sister in law is now here from the UK. She is the reason I started watching yall a few years ago! Um, renting or asking for a US sponsor. No shipping out or in. Also be covered for insurance.

[@eleanorcramer7986]

Besides fuel economy and reliable maintenance Our list includes Heated floor plus options, vents and hanging closet. Need Good size sink with faucet extension to outside then ample solar plus cab using integrated seating and access in emergency. Useful to have wet bath and bed in safest location.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Sounds great!

[@Hansarose]

Buy the rig of your dreams, leave it in the UK - consider leasing in US or Canada for your travels :)

[@Fina-x5n]

And who will pay for that - you?

[@bobmoser726]

When you come to US, look at your schedule to allow for white water rafting on the Upper Gauley River in West Virginia. The water is normally open for rafting in September to October time frames

[@09mantlek]

Clearly by the sounds of your shopping list the only logical option is a long wheel base VW transporter with pop top roof, rock n roll bed. I guess you don't need solar as you travel often also so DC to DC charger on your powerbanks which can now be done thanks to ecoflow having a device to supply efficient charge. Maybe a folding solar panel could help to set up outside tho. Good luck all

[@amandatester2538]

Have you given up on the idea of going 'Stealth' now then? I'm really surprised as I thought you liked to be able to stop anywhere without being noticed and moved on? If you have a dedicated camper van will you not have to stop over in dedicated night halts and campsites? I'm confused, as this used to be so important for you!

[@edfannon1119]

if travelling around America Im sure that air conditioning would be essential in a small metal box...best of luck guys.

[@CalMUK91]

The thing about shipping a van is make sure you realise the EHT is different.

[@tealady55]

How about a Toyota Alphard. Smaller and more agile than other campers, gorgeous and comfy to drive and incredibly reliable. But you'd need lpg conversion to make it affordable to run on long journeys.

[@jillianwhite4601]

I love you both. Thank you for taking us along with your journey. ❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks for watching!

[@vanessalackford4425]

Although I do not plan to ever live in a van, I found this absolutely fascinating. Your list of priorities, garnered from experience, well done. I recognised Gloucester Services too! I sometimes follow Snow and Curt, van lifers from US, who brought their van from South America, to Europe a few months ago. They travel with cats! If you don’t know of them, they might have useful suggestions. Good luck, looking forward to seeing your new van.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you, might give them a buzz and see what they say

[@user-Tortured-soul]

I feel so happy for both of you❤I hope you find what you are looking for soon.❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thank you so much

[@MrTyger11]

Love watching you guys, we have just been looking at shipping our van to the USA/ Canada, and sadly knocked it on the head .... far far to much stress which we don't need in our life.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yeah it's a lot of hassle for sure

[@TheMinimaggi]

The last Sven Hedin ... presumably you want to see all the States both down South and up North and the push up are ok for the South not the same in the North with a gale Wind blowing and minus degrees. Security wize it seems safer than the push in terms of Breaking and entering. Tough choice but Jannie was glowing when she saw it ..

[@dwhittle]

Spring is May-June in a lot of eastern Canada (huge snowfall in April). You need 4wd for any winter travel.

[@Travels_in_nuevo]

Hi hope you both are well, may I suggest an autosleeper nuevo ek tb, its under six meters. I have one over 2 years and it is a remarkable little coach built, ours has a 2.2 Ford engine in a peugeot van, I know that's a bit nuts but peugeot vans have Ford engines in them. It's also ulez but no adblue. These vans have all you need and can be 2 singles or one massive double. I am over 6feet and can move about in it easy Good luck

[@Gordonafloat]

I have heard that expats insuring cars is really expensive in Canada. Also Brits can visit Canada for 6 months and the USA on the basic visa for only 90 days.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

All true

[@leahkeyworth]

We have an old talbot motorhome and when parked up, feel we stick out like a sore thumb 😅. However as we have a fairly large dog, needed something abit bigger than a campervan so she could stretch her legs while in the van and have her own sofa.our solar can power our phones; tv and lights and gas to cook. Also has a shower and hot water, whst we never had in our smaller campervan. Bed area above cab is a bit of a squueze, but we still manage and can get a goods night sleep. Its old and not that reliable, but with limited budget, we had to get what we thought would be the best option. As limited space, the dog needs numerous walks throughout the day. Horses for courses and whatever works for one, doesnt necessarily work for everyone. But i understand what your saying.

[@vwcamperinteriors]

With all due respect to people who have bigger vans we have had a old T2 Westfalia for 15 years traveling UK and EU it has a rock and roll bed ..so no need for a fixed bed and separate seats ..a compressor fridge sink cooker swivel front seat . And pop top with solar I'm tempted to buy a bigger van but this van has everything required

[@BH-hr9tp]

Convert an SUV. Honda CRV for example. Tons of space , seats fold into a bed, k20 petrol engine is one of the most reliable engines on the planet, the pre 2007 models are probably better than the new ones but your after a euro 6. However even the 2002 model is ULEZ compliant.

[@Fina-x5n]

thats even smaller than the berlingo which he clearly stated was too small. Pay attention. Do better.

[@carolinecaiger6717]

You are looking for a smaller version of what is known as a Class B motorhome in the US.

[@fanhadrill7767]

Have a look at the little Wingamms- coach built so light, but small. That type might be what you’re looking for.

[@thinkingoutofthebox.9421]

I've got a Transit custom Devon Firefly hightop swb automatic, 2 single beds made using front swivel seats. it's OK for me at 5ft9" but that's the max standing height. It does have the notorious wet belt but you just have to change it before Ford tell you. You really should get a Sprinter as it has a timing chain unlike the VW's belt.

[@HoneyDems]

Good Luck! Something to consider is health insurance. Canadians buy special insurance because USA medical can devastate you.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yeah it's a massive concern 😟

[@bjorntorsten8241]

Maybe consider buying a US spec sprinter from a bespoke builder like Humble Road campers, watch Patrick from New Jersey outdoors adventures he showcases many small bespoke builders. Buy the van in the USA but make sure you (want left hand drive for the long term) and it’s easier to ship it the other way back to uk - something to think about

[@roygardiner4002]

Had my reply deleted ! Late Ford Transit 4x4 (LWB,Hi top) diesel of course, quick and easy conversion using a pre-made kit. Would be fine for affordable parts in US/Canada. Good luck !

[@clairelewis5008]

Just putting it out there Liam but have you really thought through Canada in the winter will Janine cope with the cold -15 average temp potentially getting down to -50. Follow the Sun 😂

[@JuanitaHughes-y5s]

We picked up our new to us Autosleeper Nuevo EK today snd I have named it Little House- it really is. 5.7m long with EVERYTHING on board. Check them out. You can sleep two singles by incorporating cab seats or transverse and I think is wide enough for Liam. We traded in a fantastic yellow Devon conversion panel van. The Nuevo will extend our season - heated underslung water etc etc. watched you guys since Frida !!!!

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Sounds fab, good luck on all your adventures 😀

[@sandytw5229]

Nice one Liam, I would say plan for the North American travel in the Spring, I’ve been in Canada & East Coast USA in winter & its bitter, snow up over you head & very icy! I’d choose April to October to get the best weather, especially if you have to exit at your entry point! Vgn love ❤️

[@AlanTalbot-y9h]

Hi guys you should look into the renault master hi top the reason I say this is we have a horsebox which is renault master hi top you get the extra hight so you can stand up they are reliable and make for good conversions 😊

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Will take a look thank youn

[@juliejones9168]

One thing to consider is that ford engines are now having problems with fuel injectors and these are costly… they also have a wet belt and these are costly if they go… we changed our motorhome because of this and know friends who have ford engine work vans with the same issues so please do a bit or research for the most reliable engine. New to your channel and love the content.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Welcome aboard! And yes you are totally right, we have seen this fault and put us off to be honest

[@thesmudge1353]

You are right about not having anything too big. Our camper is a 5m ford transit with a pop up roof. It packs a tiny kitchen, loo and shower. Yes it's a bit of a squash but we can take it anywhere, park it anywhere and fit under most barriers. Like you if it is dry we are outside, if it rains we are cosy inside. Every compromise we make for space and storage is more than compensated for that ease of getting around. It's not quite what you are looking for, but the right van will be out there. Personally I would be looking for a good quality conversion rather than a coach built but good luck in your search.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

I think we are on the same wave length with vans tho

[@Fina-x5n]

true but how do u stay safe in UK with poptop? stay in campsites or away from urban areas at all times?

[@thesmudge1353]

@@Fina-x5n Safe from what? It's the UK, not the wild west lol

[@Fina-x5n]

@@thesmudge1353 the UK is incredibly dangerous in urban areas particularly- thugs everywhere. First night of car camping mine was broken into- in a "safe" area, and I've been attacked or witnessed attacks more times than I can remember in UK, and everyone I know says the same. If you haven't noticed, then either you're unusually lucky or very unobservant. Just search "vanlife broken into while asleep" to give some context- most of the videos are in UK.

[@thesmudge1353]

@@Fina-x5n Unusually lucky then.

[@davidmarshall5596]

Morgan/ Berlingo + 2 , Good luck on your next van, choose carefully, 😊🎉

[@yorkshirecoastadventures1657]

"Further north" has me puzzled. All the more lived in area of Canada is further south than the UK. Stay safe you crazy cats.❤

[@michelle4595]

I always think of Canada as further North and even had a conversation this week with a Canadian friend about how she has hot weather now even though she's further North. ( she didn't correct me ) I have spent time there too but I just looked at Google maps and you are quite right , a lot of places are indeed South of UK!! Maybe it's like that thing , I forget the actual term for it but , it's to do with maps and how we percieve it differently like many people percieve Glasgow as being directly above England but it's actually over Wales. Or maybe I just didn't pay enough attention before !

[@justmeted1969]

Honestly, I can't see it's cheaper to buy something there coachbuilt and ship it over here. You can buy a preowned dodge or toyota van here and use it up and sell it when you're done. Parts easy to find.

[@traceybootle1005]

You can do Canada and USA insurance through a company called Fidarsi. They insured us for our current North America trip.

[@traceybootle1005]

Also we used a shipping agent called Seabridge they were really helpful and I believe IVSS are also good.

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Really helpful thank you

[@Threadexpress]

Sounds like a small 6 meter motorhome like the minimalists Adria sunliving would tick the most boxes for you .Adria Sunliving S 60 SP 😊

[@stellaswancounselling]

Love it. Yeah we went through same process ended up doing a self build with all of our requirements. ❤❤

[@ThoseHappyDays]

It's a great way to move forward

[@sue9671]

Your wish list was so close to ours that I had to share our ideal if we could afford it van Globecar have some great layouts . Hope you find your ideal van .

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Thanks for sharing!

[@catherineshaw3197]

Good luck with finding the perfect van.

[@MarkHughes-hn8yc]

You had the perfect van......n raffled it off😂

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Definitely not right for this next chapter

[@oddmanout98]

Great to watch you again Simon. A great simple camp! Have you thought about charring your hazel sticks before wrapping your bannock during them? Thanks for the video.

[@MrBrokenchair]

Nice round up of your chapters of Van. I'm looking forward to the next one. Also your overseas adventure. " Sort of in the Common Wealth "😂 classic! ❤ A+

[@roberthumper877]

Grand Cali!!!:) I meet an Irish dude who drove to France and bought a brand new auto sleeper. Cheaper than if we did it mate. Food for thought 😊

[@psling7714]

I think you are right to be considering a manufacturer’s van conversion type motorhome. It will make administration, paperwork and insurance so much more straightforward. Another consideration is height for freighting. Just to throw in a curve ball (how American is that 😅), have you considered a pick-up truck with demountable camper?

[@ThoseHappyDays]

Yeah all things noted and you are right