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Vanlife Roadmap Podcast: Ep. 1
From Basement Builds to Vanlife Outfitters Zach Daudert on Curiosity, Camper Vans, and Building a Community the Hard Way Vanlife rarely starts with a parts list. For Zach Daudert, it started decades earlier — with cardboard hospitals taped together in a basement, a teenage obsession with fixing and building things, and a lifelong pull toward mobility, simplicity, and making systems work better. In the inaugural episode of the Vanlife Roadmap podcast, Zach shares the winding story that led from a childhood in Colorado to building camper vans long before “vanlife” had a name — and ultimately to founding multiple companies designed to make vanlife less overwhelming and more intentional. This is not a story about chasing trends. It’s a story about learning through doing, solving real problems, and building something because it needed to exist. A Builder Before He Had the Language for It Zach grew up in Greeley, Colorado, spending much of his childhood building things and imagining adult worlds long before most kids his age. As a child, he recreated a fully mapped hospital in his parents’ basement using cardboard, masking tape, and detailed systems. There were intake forms. Recovery rooms. Even interviews with real medical professionals, recorded on cassette tapes. Looking back, the pattern is obvious. Zach wasn’t just interested in things — he was interested in how systems worked. That instinct never left. Living in a Van at 17 — Long Before It Was “Vanlife” Zach built and lived in his first camper van at just 17 years old — a 1971 Volkswagen Westfalia he rebuilt with his dad and girlfriend. It wasn’t part of a movement, and it certainly wasn’t a lifestyle trend. It was simply a way to travel, see the country, and follow the Grateful Dead. The van was basic. There was no polished interior, no optimized layout, and no online guides to follow. But it worked. It gave him freedom, mobility, and just enough shelter to stay on the road. More importantly, it taught him how much you could do with very little — and how quickly you learned what actually mattered once you started living in the space. Looking back, that first van wasn’t about building the “right” setup. It was about movement, music, and figuring things out along the way — lessons that would quietly shape how Zach approached every van he built after that. Learning by Doing (and Breaking Things) As Zach lived and traveled in vans through his early adulthood, he slowly upgraded systems: Better electrical setups Refrigeration instead of ice Plumbing scavenged from RV salvage yards Marine components repurposed for mobile living Without internet resources, he learned by dismantling old RVs and studying how they worked — physically tracing systems to understand them. This hands-on, problem-driven learning shaped a core belief that still defines Vanlife Outfitters today: The best van builds are driven by use, not just gear. Panama, Burnout, and Starting Over After years in video production and early web development while also founding a community training and resource organization for creative professionals (Boulder Digital Arts), Zach burned out. He moved to Panama, and with the help of a 5-person Panamanian crew and ex-wife, built a home from the ground up inside the crater of an extinct volcano, and spent years living there on and off — growing food, gardening, and stepping away from constant digital work. But vans remained part of his life. When he returned to the U.S. and decided to build a modern camper van from a blank cargo van for the first time, everything changed. This was 2016. There were still no clear resources. No centralized places to buy trusted parts. No clear guidance on systems design. Even basic terminology was hard to find. So Zach did what he’d always done. He figured it out — and he documented it. Why the Blog Came First Zach started a blog to share what he was learning — not because he planned to build a business, but because he knew others would run into the same problems he did. He wrote about: Electrical systems Plumbing layouts Choosing a van platform Repurposing marine and RV components The response surprised him. People weren’t just reading — they were asking questions. A lot of them. That revealed a deeper problem. The Real Pain Point Wasn’t Installation — It Was Sourcing Zach realized that one of the hardest parts of building a camper van wasn’t the physical labor — it was figuring out what to buy. Parts were scattered across vendors who didn’t understand vanlife use cases. Shipping was unreliable. Support was poor. Builders were overwhelmed by choice and conflicting advice. That insight became the foundation of Vanlife Outfitters. Not as a trend play. Not as a merch brand. [Well, he was planning to become a t-shirt mogul.] But as a curated store built by people who actually used the gear. From Blog to Business — With the Right Partner Josh Theberge was one of the early readers of Zach’s blog. He was building vans professionally during the pandemic and running into the same frustrations — just at a larger scale. [See episode 2 for Josh’s story.] Together, they launched the Vanlife Outfitters store in 2020 with a simple promise: Road-tested products only Honest guidance Real technical support A store that saves builders time, not just money Vanlife Outfitters wasn’t built to sell everything. It was built to sell the right things. Community Over Commerce As Vanlife Outfitters grew, Zach and Josh kept coming back to the same realization: the vanlife community needed more than products and online advice. It needed a place to gather that actually felt like vanlife. That idea became Peace Love & Vans. Zach explains that while vanlife events existed in other parts of the country, there was very little for the growing community on the East Coast. Rather than creating another expo or trade show, the goal was to build something different — an event centered on people, not booths. From the start, Peace Love & Vans was designed as a camping-first experience. Vans camp together in a natural setting, not a parking lot. Conversations happen more in van “neighborhoods” than at sales tables. Music, food, and shared experiences are part of the fabric of the event, creating an environment that reflects why many people are drawn to vanlife in the first place. Zach talks about how community is often what keeps people in vanlife long-term. Peace Love & Vans was built to support that — bringing together builders, DIYers, longtime vanlifers, and people just starting out, all on equal footing. The result is an event that feels less like an industry showcase and more like a gathering of people who share a common way of living. It’s a reflection of the same philosophy behind Vanlife Outfitters — build things with intention, prioritize real-world use, and put community before commerce. Lessons for Anyone Building a Van Today Zach’s advice to first-time builders is refreshingly simple: Don’t overthink it Don’t chase perfection Get started and use the van Technology will change. Products will improve. Your second build will always be better than your first. What matters most is designing for how you’ll actually live, then making sure your systems support that reality. Electrical systems, in particular, deserve more thought than aesthetics — because they quietly determine comfort, capability, and confidence on the road. Why This Story Matters Zach’s path explains why Vanlife Outfitters exists — and why it operates differently. It wasn’t built by marketers. It wasn’t built by trend followers. It was built by people who spent decades facing the same questions that today’s builders are asking. And then answering them. Want to Hear the Full Conversation? Listen to Episode 1 of Vanlife Roadmap to hear Zach’s story in his own words — including the mistakes, the laughter, and the lessons learned along the way. Follow along on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you’re planning a camper van build, exploring vanlife, or want to become a t-shirt mogul, it’s a great place to start. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 9
The Grand Reveal – Mike’s Finished Adventure Van After months of planning, building, and dreaming, the van is finally complete. In the finale of Mike’s Van Build Podcast, we join Mike inside his fully finished camper van — a rolling home that perfectly blends craftsmanship, creativity, and comfort. What started as an empty cargo shell is now an adventure-ready rig, designed for two and dialed in for years of travel ahead. The Big Moment Mike and Amy arrived at Site Seven for the long-awaited pickup — greeted by their new van shining under the shop lights, awning extended, and every feature in place. The reaction said it all: pure excitement and gratitude as months of vision came to life. The reveal was more than just emotional, as it showed what’s possible when design, collaboration, and expertise meet. From fabrics and trim to lighting and cabinetry, every detail reflected the thoughtful planning that defined this build. What’s Inside Now that the van’s been tested on several short trips, the results are in — and everything works beautifully. Fold-out Bed System: Converts from a single to a queen in seconds, offering flexibility for solo trips or weekends for two. Dual Bench Seating: Designed for both dining and lounging, with smart access to hidden storage and electrical components. Upgraded Electrical System: The secondary alternator delivers impressive off-grid performance, recharging batteries quickly on the road. Functional Kitchen Design: A recessed faucet, removable butcher block cover, and durable countertop make the space easy to use and maintain. Lighting & Controls: Gorgeous ceiling panels, dimmable LED lighting, and touchscreen controls bring a modern, cohesive feel to the interior. Every inch of the space is purposeful — practical for adventure, comfortable for everyday use, and adaptable for the unknowns ahead. Built for Real Life Beyond comfort, the van is built for action. The upgraded suspension smooths rough roads, while the manual awning and exterior lighting make camp setup effortless. The bike rack, exterior shower, and smart garage layout let Mike and Amy haul gear, wash up, and store essentials without compromise. Even better — the same space doubles as a cargo hauler. Within a week of pickup, the van had already been used for garden projects, carrying lumber, plants, and even a small tree. Ready for the Road Ahead Mike and Amy’s first big adventure was a North Carolina waterfall loop, followed by camping trips and music festivals this fall. The van will serve as their home base, retreat, and workspace while they travel — powered by Starlink and packed with everything they need to hit the road. Their biggest takeaway from the build processes are to know your builder, test your design ideas, and take time to plan before you buy parts or make big decisions. Key Products Featured in Episode 9 Secondary Alternator Wakespeed Regulator Victron Energy Power System Fiamma Manual Awning Starlink Roof Mount Webasto Heater with Smart Temp Controller 3.0 . . The van is complete — but the journey continues. Follow along on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts as Mike takes his new rig on the open road. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 8
Building for Two – Designing a Camper Van That Works for a Couple Living small takes teamwork. In Episode 8 of Mike’s Van Build Podcast, we explore what it means to design a camper van for two people — balancing comfort, personal space, and function while keeping that signature “home on wheels” feeling. This episode brings a fresh perspective on not just how a van is built, but how it’s shared. Living Together in a Tiny Space When two people travel together, every square inch matters. After years of adventures — from tiny cabins to multiple vans — Mike and Amy learned what works for them and what doesn’t. The new build emphasizes efficiency with a fold-up bed that creates instant living space, hidden benches instead of bulky furniture, and smart storage so everything tucks neatly away. It’s not about having more things — it’s about making sure everything serves a purpose and contributes to daily flow. The “Home” Feeling For them, comfort isn’t about luxury — it’s about warmth. They chose layered textures, bold colors, and soft lighting to make the van feel lived-in and personal. Multiple windows bring in sunlight, while dimmable, warm-white lights set the evening mood. Everything from the countertops to the upholstery was selected to feel cozy, not clinical. As they described it, the goal was simply to open the door and instantly feel, “We’re home.” Smart Design for Real Life A key theme in this episode is designing around how they actually live. They ditched the built-in stove for a portable propane cooktop, cook mostly outdoors under the awning, and freed up counter space for food prep. Instead of a fixed table, they added removable surfaces and multi-use benches that can switch between dining, working, and relaxing. Even the decision to skip a traditional bathroom was intentional — reclaiming that space for storage and daily living instead. Lessons for Other Vanlife Couples Their advice for anyone building a van with a partner is to decide early on what truly matters. Choose three or four “non-negotiables” — the things you can’t live without — and design around them. Everything else can flex. Designing for two isn’t about compromise; it’s about creating a rhythm that lets you travel in sync. Key Features Highlighted in Episode 8 Fold-up bed for flexible living space Dual bench seating with removable table Textured fabrics and warm colors for comfort Dimmable LED lighting throughout Portable propane stove and exterior cook setup Oversized windows for natural light Thoughtful storage solutions Ready to ride along?Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 7
Outfitting the Outside – Essential Exterior Mods for Mike’s Sprinter Van Conversion When it comes to a camper van conversion, the exterior is just as important as the interior. In Episode 7 of Mike’s Van Build Podcast, we’re focusing on the exterior upgrades that transform a stock Mercedes Sprinter into a road-ready adventure van. From custom roof racks and solar panels to ladders, awnings, and off-road tires, Mike’s rig is built to handle vanlife in every season. Custom Roof Rack & Solar Power The roof is prime real estate in any Sprinter van build. Mike’s van features a Site Seven custom roof rack designed to maximize function. It holds a rooftop Mabru 12V air conditioner, a Starlink satellite dish, and two slim solar panels. This layout balances comfort and off-grid power, giving Mike reliable energy without compromising airflow or durability — a must for long trips and hot summers. Exterior Lighting for Safety & Comfort Vanlife doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Mike’s build includes a front light bar for visibility on late-night arrivals and rear and side lights for setting up camp in the dark. Paired with softer awning lights, the system makes it easy to switch from bright utility lighting to a cozy outdoor vibe. Easy Access: Ladders & Side Steps Sprinters sit high off the ground and climbing in and out can get old fast. Mike chose powered drop-down side steps that automatically extend when the door opens — complete with LED lighting for nighttime entry. Around back, a sturdy rear access ladder provides safe roof access for loading gear or checking the solar setup. Outdoor Living with the Fiamma Awning A Fiamma awning expands the living space beyond the van walls, creating shade for cooking, relaxing, or hanging out after a ride (maybe with a little Netflix). Combined with upgraded exterior power outlets, it turns the outdoors into an extension of the home — one of the best upgrades for comfort and versatility on the road. All-Terrain Tires & Wheels No Sprinter van conversion is complete without reliable traction. Mike upgraded to all-terrain tires for durability and grip on everything from mountain passes to desert trails. It’s one of the most practical exterior modifications, making sure the van is as capable as it looks. Why Exterior Mods Matter in Vanlife These upgrades are what make the difference between a van that looks ready for travel and one that’s truly built for adventure. With a thoughtfully designed roof rack, solar system, lighting, awning, and tires, Mike’s Sprinter is equipped for road trips, festivals, off-grid camping, and everything in between. For Mike, the exterior upgrades aren’t just cosmetic. They’re the features that make the van more functional, more comfortable, and better equipped for real adventures. Key Exterior Products Featured in Episode 7 Roof-Mounted Solar Panels Rooftop Air Conditioner Starlink Satellite Dish Integration Fiamma Awning Roof Access Ladder Ready to ride along?Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 6
From Shell to Sanctuary – Mike’s Tips for Designing a Van That Feels Like Home The framing is finished, and now it’s time for the details that make a van truly livable. In Episode 6 of Mike’s Van Build, Mike and the Site Seven team move into the customization phase — designing a Sprinter van interior that balances gear storage, comfort, and flexibility for two people on the road. Customizing a Camper Van Interior This stage of the build is all about personalization. Instead of cookie-cutter cabinetry, Mike worked with the Site Seven crew to design a layout tailored to how he and Amy travel together. Smart storage solutions like a pullout garage tray keep bikes and gear organized. Angled cabinets maximize headroom and keep the van feeling open. A hinged bed system with a split mattress creates extra living space when it’s needed. Multiple table placements make it easy to switch from dining to working to relaxing. Every piece of the build is a response to real-world needs, showing how thoughtful customization can transform limited square footage into a comfortable, functional home base. Building for Two A big theme in this episode is designing for couples. Mike highlights the importance of planning around how two people actually live in a camper van. From kitchen flow to storage zones to seating, every decision was made with both adventure and everyday comfort in mind. For anyone tackling a DIY van build or working with a professional builder, this episode offers lessons in balancing individuality with practicality. Lessons Learned One of Mike’s biggest takeaways? Even when you think the design is final, new ideas will appear once you’re in the space. Renting vans, visiting festivals, and trying different layouts first can make all the difference before committing to big decisions. Why This Matters for Van Builders Customization is what separates a basic build from a truly livable van. By taking the time to plan storage, sleeping, and seating around real-world use, you can avoid regrets and create a space that feels like home — no matter where the road takes you. Ready to ride along? Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 5
Framing Vanlife Dreams – Building the Foundation of Mike’s Adventure Rig The prep work is done — now the real transformation begins. In Episode 5 of Mike’s Van Build Podcast, the empty Sprinter shell starts taking shape as Mike and the Site Seven team dive into the framing stage. This is where a camper van conversion turns from bare metal into a structured, livable space — and every cut, measurement, and joint matters. Framing a Sprinter Van Build Framing may not be glamorous, but it’s the backbone of any van build. Using precision cuts and careful planning, the team lays out the skeleton for walls, cabinets, and storage. This stage ensures every panel, cabinet, and system will fit seamlessly later on. As Mike puts it, “This is where it starts looking like the van I’ve been imagining.” Planning Electrical & Plumbing Early The framing stage isn’t just about structure. It’s also the moment to map out hidden systems — running electrical wiring, planning plumbing lines, and ensuring there’s access for installation and maintenance down the road. By thinking three steps ahead, Site Seven builds durability and functionality into the bones of the van. Why Framing Matters in a Van Build Strong, well-planned framing is what will make Mike’s Sprinter van conversion feel like home on wheels. It balances durability, usability, and smart space-saving design. It’s also the stage where first-time builders often realize the importance of careful prep and layout — because mistakes here are tough to undo. Next up: walls, wiring, and the first real signs of Mike’s adventure rig coming alive. Products & Features Mentioned in Episode 5 Victron Energy Bundle Secondary Alternator + Wakespeed Regulator Mabru 12,000 BTU Rooftop AC Webasto Heater with Smart Temp Controller 3.0 Isotherm Slim 70 Fridge Thinsulate Van Insulation Tec VanLife Sink Lonseal Flooring Ready to ride along? Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 4
Episode 4: Designing Vanlife Comfort – How Mike Planned His Dream Van Layout The build is officially underway — but before Mike’s new Sprinter gets its full Site Seven makeover, there’s a lot of behind-the-scenes work to tackle. In Episode 4 of Mike’s Van Build, Mike and the Site Seven team dig into the prep phase that sets the stage for a smooth, efficient build. From organizing the massive haul of parts to finalizing design details, it’s all about making sure nothing slows them down once the real work begins. Sorting, Staging, and Strategizing The first step? Inventory. With everything from flooring to electrical gear arriving from Mike’s Episode 2 shopping spree, the Site Seven shop is buzzing as they check in products, confirm specs, and stage components in the right work areas. This phase isn’t just about keeping things tidy — it’s about preventing delays. When every bolt, panel, and wire is exactly where it needs to be, the build flows faster and with fewer surprises. Fine-Tuning the Plan Mike, Justin, Hunter, and Jammer revisit the layout and systems to make sure every detail works in harmony. They tweak placements for storage, adjust wiring runs for efficiency, and confirm that the gear will deliver the performance Mike’s aiming for. A few big decisions get locked in here, including final flooring choice, insulation details, and how to maximize space without sacrificing comfort. Why Prep Matters It’s easy to think the magic happens once tools hit the van — but in reality, prep is where great builds are made. The organization, planning, and coordination happening now will pay off in speed, quality, and reliability down the road. Key Products Mentioned in Episode 4 Victron Energy Electrical Components Secondary Alternator + Wakespeed Regulator Mabru 12,000 BTU Air Conditioner Webasto Heater with Smart Temp Controller 3.0 Isotherm Slim 70 Fridge Thinsulate Van Insulation Tec Vanlife Sink Lonseal Flooring Ready to ride along? Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 3
Episode 3: Meeting the Dream Team at Site Seven After a forklift-fueled shopping spree in Episode 2, it’s time to hand over the goods — and the van — to the people who will bring Mike’s dream rig to life. In Episode 3 of Mike’s Van Build, Mike heads to Site Seven Campers in New Hampshire to meet founders Justin, Hunter, and Jammer, see the shop in action, and hand over his brand-new Sprinter for its full custom conversion. First Impressions of Site Seven From the moment Mike walks in, it’s clear this isn’t your average van conversion shop. The Site Seven team runs a clean, organized, and detail-focused operation — complete with dedicated stations for every stage of the build. Mike gets a firsthand look at their cabinetry craftsmanship, electrical setups, and how they manage complex projects without cutting corners. Justin, Hunter, and Jammer share their philosophy on van building: Function comes first — every design decision starts with how the van will be used. Quality over speed — they’d rather get it right than get it done fast. Collaboration is key — they involve clients throughout the process to avoid surprises. Mike’s Build Goals with Site Seven Mike lays out his vision: A rugged, four-season van ready for skiing, biking, and extended off-grid travel. Simplified systems that are easy to operate and maintain. Premium finishes that can handle real-world use without looking worn in a year. Justin, Hunter, and Jammer are all in — mapping out the build timeline, coordinating on the gear Mike’s already picked, and making small tweaks for efficiency and performance. Why This Episode Matters Whether you’re building with a pro shop or going the DIY route, Episode 3 is a goldmine for understanding what makes a great builder–client relationship. You’ll see why Mike trusts Site Seven with his van and what questions you should ask when choosing a builder yourself. Looking to hire a van conversion company for your own camper build? Check out our blog posts covering this topic: How to Find the Right Camper Van Builder (Without Losing Your Shirt or Your Sanity) 10+ Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Camper Van Builder Key Products Mentioned in Episode 3 Victron Energy Electrical Components Secondary Alternator + Wakespeed Regulator Mabru 12,000 BTU Air Conditioner Webasto Heater with Smart Temp Controller 3.0 Isotherm Slim 70 Fridge Thinsulate Van Insulation Tec Vanlife Sink Lonseal Flooring Ready to ride along? Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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Mike's Van Build Podcast: Ep. 2
Episode 2: Van Build Shopping Spree — Choosing Gear for the Sprinter Dream Rig What happens when you hand Mike Lyons the keys to the Vanlife Outfitters warehouse and tell him to pick whatever he wants for his new custom van? You get Episode 2 of Mike’s Van Build — a gear-lover’s dream tour through the must-have products going into Mike’s next rig. In this episode, Mike shares his top picks for creating a more rugged, off-grid-ready van than his last build, Willow. He’s learned a lot since then — especially about electrical systems — and it shows in his choices. Mike’s Wishlist: Key Upgrades More Durable Flooring – Industrial-grade vinyl that can take the abuse of skis, bikes, and gear without scratching like his old flooring. Powerful Electrical System – A massive power upgrade for running rooftop AC, refrigeration, lights, and more — for days off-grid. An Actual Air Conditioner – Roof unit for quiet, efficient cooling. Powerful Heater – Altitude-capable heating for mountain adventures. Bigger Fridge – Huge capacity with a slim profile to fit the new layout. Better Sink – A space-saving sink with a hidden faucet and butcher block cover. Mike also made some bold omissions: no built-in toilet this time, and no indoor shower — opting instead for more storage, an outdoor shower option, and camp facilities when needed. Lessons for Your Own Build Mike’s top advice? Know how you want to use your van before you shop. Weekend warrior or long-term off-grid? It changes everything. Do an energy audit to size your battery bank and charging systems for your needs. Don’t overlook finishes — the right flooring and cabinetry can handle real-world wear without constant repairs. Consider space trade-offs — every feature you add takes room from something else. Whether you’re deep in your van conversion or just daydreaming, this episode is packed with practical tips, product insights, and plenty of laughs from the forklift-friendly shopping spree. Key Products Mentioned in Episode 2 Lonseal “Loncoin” Flooring Victron Electrical Components Secondary Alternator + Wakespeed Regulator Mabru 12,000 12V Rooftop AC MaxxAir Fan Webasto Heater with Smart Temp Controller 3.0 Isotherm Slim 70 Fridge Thinsulate Van Insulation Tec Vanlife Sink Isotemp 15L Water Heater VanEssential Window Covers Starlink Roof Mount Ready to ride along?Check back weekly for new episodes and subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app so you don’t miss what’s next. This van build — and this podcast — is just getting started. Share with a van-curious friend. And if you’ve got questions about your own build, reach out. We’re always happy to help. Want to explore more? Visit the Vanlife Outfitters Store to browse gear, learn from real-world builds, and get help choosing the right setup for your own vanlife adventure.
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