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Let my dreams come true

Started by aelmoe, March 02, 2016, 11:20:10 PM

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aelmoe

Hey there,

i am a dude from germany who got really into that vanliving thing.
I've always loved to travel and crafting things on my own. And combining both is the ultimate dream of mine.
Now here is the twist:
I am currently studying, an it'll last 2-3 years 'til i'll have graduated. So i can't neither afford a van nor tools for any prior Work.

So here i am sitting, dreaming about having a Van thinking about what i can do to get a step forward to making my dream come true. The solution without any funds is getting as much as possible information about the topic of vanliving, so that i can start when i graduated and will have some money to spend.

So i'll ask you fellas what are the first steps or main aspects i have to think about? What has to be sorted out at first?

Where can i find prints about how a specfic van is build up, where can i learn about repairing a engine?

Best Wishes,

Elmar

kryten

Since you're starting with a blank canvas, your imagination is the key here. You need to get the best van you can afford. Make sure it is mechanically sound and isn't full of rust. If you will be full timing then you need to decide on what you need to live comfortably. Do you need a shower or are you happy with a wash down with a cloth? Do you require an oven or just a stove top? Are you planning being in a cold area, if so you will require heat. Do you want refillable lpg bottles, more expensive to buy to cheaper to fill, or go with exchangeable bottles. You also have electricity to consider.

Draw some plans on how you want the inside to look, you can adapt your plans to suit whatever van you buy. Think outside the box when doing your build. A kitchen sink can be made from metal salad bowls and even plastic buckets.

Do you want a fixed bed, easy to sleeping, just jump in but take up space or a sofa bed that you have to make every night?

When you get your van strip it bare, check everywhere for leaks then insulate. You can't use too much insulation. Look at various builds on the internet, http://sbmcc.co.uk/ have a few builds on their website.

I would start making a list of materials you want to use. Example cost of solar panels, cost of wood for the build, cost and type of insulation.

Ask lots of questions, someone will have an answer or be able to point you in the right direction. Above all, it is your project, your van and it must be right for you.

Good luck with your dream.

aelmoe

Thanks for the good advices.
I kind of see it all more clearly.

I will start immediatly. If i have a good conzept, i may post it here to share it with you guys.


BeepBeepParker

Yes please do share. How exciting to still be at the beginning of your van journey!