Simple Van Build for Dogs: Carolyn's DIY Dodge Ram ProMaster Conversion

Carolyn's Van Life Journey

• 💔 After her marriage ended, Carolyn chose to buy a van instead of a house, seeking a new beginning.
• 🚐 She purchased a 2017 Dodge Ram ProMaster 2500 with a 159-inch wheelbase and hightop.
• 🛠️ Initially planning to hire professionals, Carolyn decided to undertake the van conversion herself after attending the RTR event.

Insulation and Interior Design

• ❄️ Insulation was a priority due to experiencing a freezing winter on the East Coast, using 1-inch poly iso foam boards and Reflectix.
• 🎨 Carolyn plans to eventually add paneling like melamine or cloth, preferring lighter materials over heavy wood to save on gas.
• 💡 A clever solution for window coverings involves Reflectix cut to fit and held with spring clips, allowing it to be rolled down without permanent attachment.

Bed and Storage Solutions

• 🛏️ The bed frame was built using 2x3 furring boards with melamine on the bottom for easy cleaning of dog hair.
• 👑 A queen-size mattress was cut in half, with the top half for Carolyn and the bottom half for her two dogs.
• 👚 Clothing is stored in three Walmart drawers, with a strict rule of taking one item out for every new item brought in.
• 🐶 Dog gear, tools, tape, rope, and camping supplies are organized in other drawers.

Kitchen and Food Storage

• 🍎 Carolyn is vegan and does not require refrigeration, storing fruits and vegetables separately from dried goods like quinoa, beans, and rice.
• 🍽️ Food items are kept conveniently near a folding table purchased from Walmart, which is secured with paracord to prevent movement.
• 🧼 Lighter items are stored in lingerie wash bags attached to boards with zip ties, suitable for toiletries and other small essentials.

Essential Van Life Amenities

• 💧 Water storage includes 5 gallons, and personal hygiene is managed with a basin, soap, and towel for washing up, including hair.
• 🚽 A porta potty is discreetly covered with contact paper, and tools, including a Black & Decker Matrix system, are stored underneath.
• 🍳 The kitchen setup includes a skillet, Dutch oven, and a pot for steaming vegetables, along with a Yeti Rambler for keeping water hot all day.
• 🐾 A bucket is used for dog water to prevent spills, and dog food and bowls are stored in a dedicated container.
• 🚗 A cooler is kept in the front for cold items, along with maps, papers, and a laptop for driving needs.

Cost-Effective Conversion

• 💰 Carolyn estimates the conversion cost to be a few hundred dollars at most, primarily for insulation, plywood, and sheet vinyl.
• ✅ The build emphasizes that extensive carpentry skills are not required, making it accessible and easy for anyone to start their van life journey.
• 🥰 Carolyn expresses surprise at how quickly she felt at home in her van, finding it super easy and comfortable.