Wherever We Land

Hey there, fellow adventurers! I’m so excited to share our journey of transforming our Dodge Ram ProMaster into the ultimate adventure mobile. But before we hit the open road, there’s one crucial aspect we need to tackle: budgeting.

Let’s be real, building a camper van is a significant investment. From the initial van purchase to the nitty-gritty details like insulation and roof vents, costs can add up quickly. But fear not, because with a little planning and creativity, you can make your van life dreams a reality without breaking the bank.

Our first step was setting a realistic budget. We considered all the essential expenses: the van itself, conversion costs (materials, tools, labor), insurance, maintenance, and of course, our travel fund. We also factored in unexpected costs, because let’s face it, things don’t always go as planned.

Next, we prioritized our needs versus wants. Sure, a fancy solar system and a state-of-the-art kitchen would be amazing, but were they absolutely necessary for our adventures? We decided to focus on the essentials first: a comfortable bed, a functional cooking area, and reliable power. We can always upgrade later as our budget allows.

Now, let’s talk about our van transformation! We started with a blank canvas, a gutted ProMaster ready for our personal touch. We tackled the demolition ourselves, saving some serious cash. Then came the fun part: painting, installing flooring, and adding insulation to keep our future home cozy.

Our latest project? A Maxxair fan roof vent! This was a non-negotiable for us, as proper ventilation is crucial for comfortable van living. We installed it ourselves, following online tutorials and a bit of elbow grease. And let me tell you, it feels incredibly rewarding to see our vision come to life.

Throughout this process, we’ve learned to be resourceful and creative. We’ve sourced materials from local suppliers, repurposed items whenever possible, and even bartered with friends for their expertise. We’ve also discovered the power of DIY, tackling projects ourselves instead of hiring professionals.

Of course, budgeting isn’t just about the initial build. We also need to consider ongoing expenses like fuel, food, campground fees, and activities. We’re planning to cook most of our meals in the van, utilizing free camping options whenever possible, and seeking out affordable adventures.

If you’re interested in following our van build journey, be sure to check out our YouTube channel, Wherever We Land. We’re documenting the entire process, sharing tips, tricks, and maybe even a few mishaps along the way. Here’s a link to our van journey playlist https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLcs1QHu8Qiv2mNxCYm6WQSbLSJRJk3ao6&si=67I8imFoPWuu0-Xs

Remember, budgeting is an ongoing process. It’s about staying flexible, adjusting as needed, and celebrating the small victories. Because ultimately, it’s not about how much you spend, but the experiences you create and the memories you make.

So, if you’re dreaming of hitting the open road in your own camper van, start planning your budget today. With a little creativity and determination, you can make your van life dreams a reality. And who knows, maybe we’ll see you out there on the road!