What is your mission? Why do you want to take to the road? We ask the questions that demand answers. We'll also review submersible pumps, visit an ancient reef, hang of a cliff in a tour bus, find out what our VINs can tell us, and figure out how to use CPAP machines in our rigs.
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
Stromatoporis
A Place to Visit - Chazy Reef
It takes time to get there, but it's worth it to step back 450,000,000 years in time.
Some links are affiliate links. If you purchase anything from these links, the show will receive a small fee. This will not impact your price in anyway.
Want to build but have no garage or even a driveway? It can be done, we'll talk about how. We'll also explain the history of why 12v sockets are terrible, visit a ghost town, and hear a tale about strangers helping out. And we'll look at a map of springs, nationwide.
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
Aurora, NV in the 1930s
A Place to Visit - Aurora N
Only one wall still stands, but the landscape and cemetery are interesting.
Wikipedia has information and directions - Hawthorne, NV side is MUCH easier, and can be done with any 2WD vehicle. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aurora,_Nevada
Product Review - Folding Wind Shield
These tiny things save you fuel and time when cooking outdoors or in a breeze.
Some links are affiliate links. If you purchase anything from these links, the show will receive a small fee. This will not impact your price in anyway.
This week, I ask you to indulge me as I discuss my "Aurora" project, and plans for its future. It's a bit more personal than usual. We'll also review bamboo paper towels, visit some old trees, find out what's at the next exit, and deliver a pizza somewhere unusual.
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
A Place to Visit - Cathedral State Park, Aurora WV
Frank Olito, reporter for Insider.com, was intrigued by #vanlife. He rented a nicely built-out van and hit the road. What happened next was unexpected and we can learn from his experience.
We also discuss the film Nomadland, now streaming on Hulu. This conversation is at the end of the podcast for those who wish to avoid spoilers.
Let's take a look at some common "#vanlife myths. Are they all myths? And we'll visit a site in Oregon where a balloon created strange history, play with endoscope, tell a tale of "the knock," and share a resource for finding bits and bobs for your build.
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
A Place to Visit - Mitchell Recreation Area, Bly, Oregon
Why can’t we get the “cool” vans in the US? And why is it so hard to find ANY van in the us right now? We’ll also take a look at the MacBook Air M1, a great #vanlife computer, prepare for NOT having Internet, and visit a tree in a rock.
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
Is Anxiety stopping you from doing what you want? You're not alone. But there are ways to beat it. We'll also talk about Smart Alternators, Button Lamps, and explain a magic trick that you can do... when you're lucky!
We now have a Discord Server! What’s that? It’s a place to share and ask questions with the host of Built to GO and other listeners. It’s a new community, so it will take some time to get to size, but you can be part of that! This link will take you to a video that explains the concept. Join us!
What's the best Microvan to convert? We have answers! We'll also have a frank talk about mold, visit some historic ships in Philadelphia, review CHEAP LED flares, and make a big mistake driving in the desert.
Nomadland! It's the movie everyone is talking about, but a few folks don't understand. We'll try to explain why reactions are so polarized. We'll also visit the Raven's Grin Inn, browse through Advanture Magazine, move a dome light, discuss vapor barriers and try a hand generator. Plus a shocking tale from the road! All in about 30 minutes! Whew!
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
You can run from the snow, but you can't necessarily hide from it. Here's a quick guide in how to drive and survive it. We'll also visit a time warp brewery, discuss the treasure chest under your vehicle, try out an LED flare, and get an unexpected visit from Jackson Pollock.
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Are you part of "REAL" #vanlife? We have the answer. We'll also visit a place with no vans, find a place for shoes, build a van without insulation, review wainscoting paneling and take a trip through Radio Garden.
A Place to Visit - Sacha Lodge
A van-free paradise in the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest.
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Nothing beats shower power! We talk about how to use it, where to find it, and how to get it in your van. We'll also visit a sculpture garden filled with dead people, review VanLab, a "build in a box" solution for your new rig, hear the brave tale of Squeaky the Van, and explain how to get packages while you're on the road.
The magic juice box
Shore Power
Look for a heavy duty, 14AWG flat extension cord. 12 feet is a good length.
This week's tale was brought to by Liz James of the Cracked Cup Podcast. Have a listen!
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Do you nee a van for #vanlife? We say: NO. In fact, you may have everything you need to hit the road today. We'll also offer a simple guide to battery buying, a story about a nice guy finishing last, and review a 12v kettle. We'll also visit some cemeteries and offer an idea of who can install your electrical system.
A lovely day in Bangor, Maine
Product Review - Sunsebell 12v Kettle
Simple, robust and effective - if a bit slow
Pro-Tip: fill your coffee cup and dump just the contents into the kettle so you'll heat exactly the right amount of water
No matter where you go, there they are - and they're always interesting.
FindAGrave can help you find yards and individuals
Q & A - Where to get power installed?
Find a major car stereo installer - just Google "Local Car Stereo Installation"
Chain stores are less likely to be useful than independent shops
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
The electric vans are coming! Will they be good for #vanlife? We'll also travel down a musical road, catch up with the Tappet Brothers, nearly kill a coworker, review the Geyser Shower System and find ways to keep bugs out.
Note: we've enabled third party advertising. Your feedback is welcome! If you hear anything you don't like, please let us know at jeff@builttogo.com.
Product Review - Geyser Shower System
An all-in-one solution for having water, even hot water, in your van.
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
I'm back after a week of quarantine, and have some thoughts about being sick in a van (which I wasn't). Also, we'll explore deer whistles, finding community online, report on a great #vanlife book, and do a little urban exploration in Ohio with a friend.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Product Review - Deer Whistles
They don't work, so I'm not linking them
Resource Recommendation - How to Live in a Van and Travel by Mike Hudson
Like having a travel buddy through your whole #vanlife journey
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Folks, I contracted COVID-19 at the end of 2020 - a final parting gift. As such, I was unable to produce a normal episode as I can speak for a long time, can’t think much at all, and only have my iPad with me which isn’t set up for the podcast. The rather crappy sound is from recording in a very empty hotel room (where I’m quarantining) and the small iPad microphones.
I’m very grateful to Liz and Hal Bidlack for contributing the bulk of this episode, and to round things out, I’ve added a copy of my first solo podcast: Oddments.
I hope to back to normal by next week. Thanks very much for listening and I hope you enjoy this unusual episode.
PS - I have a very mild case, but you really don’t want to get this. I urge you to follow guidelines to keep yourself and others safe.
Should you have a gun in your van? We present the pros and cons, and reveal our bias. We'll also visit Ausable Chasm, talk about refilling disposable propane tanks, maximize solar power in winter, take a look at shop4seatscom and have a tale with the Mythbusters.
=== As self harm is mentioned in this episode, it's important to point out that help is always available. I used to be a listener with this group, and they're the real deal. Don't make a permanent mistake for a temporary problem. Click for anonymous, confidential help. ===
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Guns in Vans
A resource for some of the legal issues with gun ownership
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
This week, we're focussing on safety tips that DON'T involve someone messing with you and your van. You know, the ones that are much more likely to kill you. We'll also try to keep mouse rats out of our rigs, visit Atlas Obscura, take a look at door steps for roof access, discuss 12v kettles and hear some more on how the penis-free can urinate in comfort.
I've been a volunteer with Team Rubicon for years now. If you're looking for a way to travel and do REAL good for communities around the world, this organization can help you get there.
Right now, there is a real need for food supportive services. If you have a day, a week, or a month to give to help get food to people, Team Rubicon is one of many organizations that can help you get the job done.
Though the organization is closely allied with veterans, you do not need to have been in the military to participate.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Moving in to the new place has taught me some realities of vanlife, especially regarding cube vans. We'll visit some amazing biology, review hand crank radios, talk about upgrading alternators, a tool for figuring out bolt sizes, and a monster in Salem Woods.
I’ve found an app that makes it dead simple to buy and sell stocks, even if you don’t know what you’re doing. And that app, is Robinhood.
I’ve used it for years without a hitch. No contracts, no hidden fees, no gotchas.
When you open your account, they’ll give you a free stock. That’s right, one share of a publicly traded company will be yours. It could be a big name like Apple or Google, but more likely it will be a smaller stock, like Zynga or Sirius.
You will have to enter your bank’s information. But if you’re willing to do that, there’s literally a free stock waiting for you. And for me - and that helps keep the show going.
Give it a try is join.robinhood.com/jeffw118 If you decide it’s not for you, sell the stock, keep the money and close your account. Easy peasy.
I promise to only promote products that I use and trust, and Robinhood is one. If you have a different experience, please let me know. And thanks for giving it a look.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
A Place to Visit: Dismals Canyon
Home to the only Dismalites in North America
Bioluminescent "glow worms" make the area look like a galaxy at night.
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Yep, it's time to talk about Insulation. Flames accepted. We'll also discuss tapping into fuse blocks, review a USB monitor, visit a famous movie site, plug FarOutRide.com and hear a "hot" tale.
I’ve found an app that makes it dead simple to buy and sell stocks, even if you don’t know what you’re doing. And that app, is Robinhood.
I’ve used it for years without a hitch. No contracts, no hidden fees, no gotchas.
When you open your account, they’ll give you a free stock. That’s right, one share of a publicly traded company will be yours. It could be a big name like Apple or Google, but more likely it will be a smaller stock, like Zynga or Sirius.
You will have to enter your bank’s information. But if you’re willing to do that, there’s literally a free stock waiting for you. And for me - and that helps keep the show going.
Give it a try is join.robinhood.com/jeffw118 If you decide it’s not for you, sell the stock, keep the money and close your account. Easy peasy.
I promise to only promote products that I use and trust, and Robinhood is one. If you have a different experience, please let me know. And thanks for giving it a look.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
You've got your empty van. Now what? We're here to help - here's a method for getting things going and staying the course. We'll also visit Saguaro National Park, check out UCO Candles, learn how to charge laptop computers, figure out which octane to use, and hear a scary story.
I’ve found an app that makes it dead simple to buy and sell stocks, even if you don’t know what you’re doing. And that app, is Robinhood.
I’ve used it for years without a hitch. No contracts, no hidden fees, no gotchas.
When you open your account, they’ll give you a free stock. That’s right, one share of a publicly traded company will be yours. It could be a big name like Apple or Google, but more likely it will be a smaller stock, like Zynga or Sirius.
You will have to enter your bank’s information. But if you’re willing to do that, there’s literally a free stock waiting for you. And for me - and that helps keep the show going.
Give it a try is join.robinhood.com/jeffw118 If you decide it’s not for you, sell the stock, keep the money and close your account. Easy peasy.
I promise to only promote products that I use and trust, and Robinhood is one. If you have a different experience, please let me know. And thanks for giving it a look.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
A Place to Visit: Saguaro National Park
An overlooked and otherworldly wonderland near Tucson.
Some links are affiliate links, and the podcast host will receive a payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the podcast host.
Thanks for helping us get to 50 episodes! This time, we're taking a break from our normal format and presenting you with 50 #vanlife tips, and some news. Thanks for listening, and here's to another 50!
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
Which full-size van should you choose? Let's take a look... We'll also review 4-way stretch fabric, ride on the Possum 2, visit Coral Castle, explore HMDB.org, and invite folks to send their own Tales From the Road. And we'll explain the difference between starter batteries and leisure batteries.
TALES FROM THE ROAD - WE WANT YOURS!
Send us your Tales From the Road and if we use the on the air, you'll receive a College of Curiosity SWAG bag, including some things appropriate for #vanlife. We'd prefer audio, but text could work and we'll help get it done for you. Send it to: jeff@builttogo.com. Thanks!
Resource Recommendation
Historical Marker Database
A crowd-sourced list of historic markers across the country. There is a corresponding app as well.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
Why not get a School Bus? Or an Ambulance? Step Van? RV???!!! We take a look at the pros and cons. Also, a fix for melting Velcro, magnetic phone holders, adventures in ZimZam, and how much solar should you have?
ZimZam
The space between Zambia and Zimbabwe on the Victoria Falls Bridge
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
We have 5 ways to check to see if you're ready for vanlife. We also explore alternate uses for Frisbees, talk about FastCaps, visit the Oriental Institute and talk about air bag issues.
5 things to check to know you're ready for #vanlife.
Like camping?
Like problem solving?
Have enough money?
Figured out relationships?
Have a mission?
A Place to Visit
Oriental Institute
When someone mailed to package to "Indiana Jones," it was delivered here. This is the closest you're going to find to "Junior's" home base.
If you remove seats, you may have issues with airbags. There ARE solutions involving resistors, but you'll need to do research for your particular situation.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
You hope it will never happen, but what if it does? You have to plan for a crash, and maybe having knives on a magnetic strip isn't a great idea. Also, we'll visit the Drive-In, talk about Command Strips, stay warm without heat, and catch up some news as well.
Not my actual rig, but pretty close
Crashing your Rig
Watch this video to gain understanding of what happens during a crash
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
An article claims there are 20 Reasons to NOT do Van Life, but are there really? Let's take a look. We'll also explore some new electric vans, talk about condiment packets, visit Arco, Idaho, and use Wikipedia to learn about our vans. And some gift ideas!
Yeah - you know this, but did you know that they have extensive details on your van, where it was built, what other models share components, and the history of the engine? Take a look!
Product Review:
Restaurant condiments may seem like a good idea for #vanlife, but make sure you rotate the stock.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
Yes, you can cook with household electric appliances if you're careful! Some are better than others. We'll visit LL Bean, talk about Kelly Blue Book, get chased by a Tow Truck, discuss van weight, and review the Sea Eagle 370.
A Place to Visit
LL Bean is open 24 hours and has been for over 100 years! Part museum, part catalog store - it's a fun place to hang out at 3AM.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
A letter from Kansas prompted me to rant a bit about toll problems in the US. We also discuss RainX, doing a Video Game Tour, point out things in your van that you shouldn't cover up, tell a tale of Clem and the police, and show how to avoid using up all your "hot spot" data.
A Place to Visit
Consider a tour of places from a video game, TV show of movie! We did a Fallout New Vegas tour and had an great time finding all the hidden things.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
Is Stealth a myth? No, but it's not what people think. We'll also visit a natural wonder in Massachusetts, talk about the Smooth 4 Gimbal, commiserate about needing to remove spray foam, and point out a solution for morning condensation.
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
Winter is coming, but that's no reason to stop #vanlife. We'll visit some of the gods living in Illinois, talk about solar shower bags, OBDII port scanners, and listen to an odd tale of physics.
In this episode, we ask some hard questions about the ethics of #vanlife, explore Bishop Castle in Colorado, explain why you put in the floor first, recommend Fakestop and discuss electric heat in a van.
A Place to Visit
Garden of the Gods, Illinois
Nope, not the one in Colorado or even the one in Hawaii!
Some links (Amazon) are affiliate links, and the podcast will receive a small payment if you order from them. Anything provided by a manufacturer for review will be fully disclosed. All reviews are the opinion of the Podcast Host.
In this episode, we ask some hard questions about the ethics of #vanlife, explore Bishop Castle in Colorado, explain why you put in the floor first, recommend Fakestop and discuss electric heat in a van.
I *think* we've come up with a way for you to have a HOT shower in ANY van. Also, we'll visit Rhode Island, review the Sea Eagle 370, discuss Air Compressors and recommend FarOutRide.com.
HOT shower:
Heat water on your stove, add it to a bucket with cold water to make it the right temperature, and then use a folding dog pool as the shower enclosure and use a portable batttery-powered pump and shower head combination. Optional hula hoop and shower curtain if you have a van you can stand in.
Some tips don't fit in any category, so we're lumping them together in our 10 Obscure #vanlife tips. We'll also travel down a burning highway, visit the largest pyramid north of Mexico, explain how step bits can make your build easier, and ask you to consider a hammock.
Van's are getting pricey and hard to find. But you can do #vanlife without one! We also take a look at cheap tool superstore Harbor Freight, consider no-build beds, dream about ice fishing, and decide that cheap wheel covers are a good thing.
No Van #Vanlife
"Vanlife" isn't about vans. It's about life. Virtually any vehicle can get you going.
What's in your emergency kit? Here are some things you may not have thought of. We'll also delve into Sink Theory 101, extol the virtues of Camp Soap, visit the RV Hall of Fame, and talk about how Outdoorsy can save you money.
2WD Off-Roading is possible! But know what you're in for. Installing windows is pretty easy and we'll tell you how, the GoPro Hero 8 is reviewed, visiting Dogtown, checking out Foresty Forest, and is drunk sleeping illegal?
VENTILATE OR DIE! Yes, ventilation is very important. Also, all about Backup Cameras, should we have News?, A review of the GasOne Stove, a trip to Salem MA, the Avenza Maps App, and Leveling for sleeping.
Top 10 ways to save money in your van! Plus, a visit to the NV desert, a review of dog bowl sinks, a GREAT idea for saving your left arm, and a mystery tale in Cumberland, Maryland.
Ok, you've given up on household air conditioning, what about those "AS SEEN ON TV" solutions? We discuss. We'll also visit an alien's grave, a ghost town, talk about black water, review a toaster, and tell you about Informed Delivery.
Lots of questions about solar power, so this episode breaks format a bit and focuses on how solar works, what you need, and whether you really need it. Also, a visit to Fort Ransom, ND, an unsatisfying tale about Writing Rock, an introduction to Solar Expert Will Prowse, and AC in a Van?
We announce the winner of our contest, troubleshoot with Lord Occam, have an encounter at Standing Rock and point out the importance of brown signs.
COVID-19 is growing stronger, but we can still travel! We just need to do a few things different. We'll also discuss the important of ground wires, review a Dometic toilet, joyously recommend commercialtrucktrader.com, visit the Timberline Lodge and tell a boat ramp story.
CONTEST WINNER: Brian from North Carolina! Congratulations!
We'll have other contests in the future.
Tales From the Road
A trip to Standing Rock turns into an encounter with the locals.
Resource Recommendation
Brown Signs
Take the time to stop and see things that "Historic Markers" or "Scenic View" signs are pointing to. It's a great way to learn about a place and take a moment to appreciate where you are.
Tech Talk: Lord Occam's Method
Lord Occam said "The simplest solution is likely correct." But every new piece of evidence requires you to apply it again.
Product Review: Flottebo Ikea Table
The brackets are an odd shape, but if you're looking for a $30 solution to having a swing away table in your van, this might be the ticket.
COVID-19 is growing stronger, but we can still travel! We just need to do a few things different. We'll also discuss the important of ground wires, review a Dometic toilet, joyously recommend commercialtrucktrader.com, visit the Timberline Lodge and tell a boat ramp story.
CONTEST!!!! If you live in the US and e-mail me before July 7th, 2020 with a story or other item of interest that I can put in the podcast, you'll be entered to win a brand new PWM Solar Charge controller. Every entry will receive a Hook Waka Bang sticker. Your privacy will be respected - nothing shared, stored, folded, spindled or mutilated.
Travel during COVID-19?
You can do it, but set your expectations and be a lot more self-contained.
Tales From the Road
Playing stupid games on abandoned coast guard bases isn't the smartest thing to do.
Resource Recommendation
Commercial Truck Trader: The BEST place to search for vans online. Truly an astounding display of vannage.
Tech Talk: Ground Wires
Ground wires are just as important as the power wires. Take care of them.
Product Review: Dometic 970 Camping Toilet
Not quite like being in a house, but a perfectly reasonable solution.
High top or low top? That IS the question this week, and while high tops have a lot of appeal, low tops have a place as well. We'll also visit Gillette Castle, the Oregon Coast, and review Ikea Eket and suggest American Van.
How can you secure your van? Not personal security, but keeping people out of your van! The Amazon Fire HD 8 has a cool secret, and Salvage One is an interesting place to visit in Chicago. Would like a free water pump? We tell you how. And FINALLY, and explanation for all the Aurora references. And we try Rock Auto and report back. COVID-19: This the BEST resource https://vanlifers.co/pages/coronavirus
CONTEST!!!! If you live in the US and e-mail me before July 7th, 2020 with a story or other item of interest that I can put in the podcast, you'll be entered to win a brand new PWM Solar Charge controller. Every entry will receive a Hook Waka Bang sticker. Your privacy will be respected - nothing shared, stored, folded, spindled or mutilated.
High-top or Low-top?
It boils down to this: do you want to optimize living or driving/parking?
Tales From the Road
A trip to the Oregon Coast! Sort of. Florence to Astoria has some of the most picturesque driving the US. If you can see it.
Resource Recommendation
American Van: A catalog of commercial vans that might have something just for you.
Tech Talk: Curtain Dividers
The secret to hanging a curtain between the front and the back is a shower curtain tension rod.
Product Review: Ikea Eket
Eket is a different type of Ikea product, not made of MDF and it doesn't need hex wrenches! What's best is that it comes in different depths.
A Place to Visit: Gillette Castle
One of my favorite spots in New England, this castle was the home of William Gillette, creator of "Sherlock Holmes" as we know him. It's full of surprises.
How can you secure your van? Not personal security, but keeping people out of your van! The Amazon Fire HD 8 has a cool secret, and Salvage One is an interesting place to visit in Chicago. Would like a free water pump? We tell you how. And FINALLY, and explanation for all the Aurora references. And we try Rock Auto and report back.
What if you'd rather just buy a van? We talk about the realities, some of them harsh. We'll also review the Stanley Cook Kit (it's great!), talk about how to screw properly (really) and I'll tell the tale of what it's like on our Interstates now that COVID-19 is firmly with us.
Another Top 10? Who knows—but here are some tips about #vanlife that might help you make decisons. A House on the Rock (and so much more), Pre-made Camper Kits, a Choose My Own Adventure Idea, Free Templates, and a Velcro Wall.
Top 10? Who knows - but here are some myths about #vanlife that need to go away. A moving highway? Yes, it exists and it's called the "Badger." How do the pros do laundry? Infrequently. And we'll explain the difference between solar charge controllers, tell a story of a storm and recommend Travels with Charley.
Can you work while living and traveling in a van? Of course you can! And there are more opportunities than you might imagine. I tell tales from the light and dark sides of Moon, Oklahoma, and spend a lot of time talking about insurance matters you need to consider.
Built to Go is your #vanlife companion for long days on the road, working on your rig, or just relaxing by that perfect spot. Self-build? Living in your vehicle? Stealth Van? Our magazine format has something for every #vanlife interest.
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Stromatoporis
