Anyone who has ever traveled in a converted minivan can testify to this: you always bring more stuff than you need! Who here hasn't once said to themselves on the road, âWow, that stuff really wasn't necessary, was it? The answer: everyone!đ Of course, everyone has their own level of comfort, and we're not judging anyone here, don't worry! However, we've put together a short list of our must-have products for a successful van trip (with a few little extras at the endâš).
1- Our minivan shelves
Travelling with a converted minivan requires organization. Although our conversion kit contains plenty of storage space everywhere, it's often the âbedside tableâ area that always ends up a mess! That's why we've developed a pair of minivan shelves that, like the conversion kit, can be installed near your rear windows in no time, without altering the structure of your car. You'll be able to keep all the items you use every day within easy reach, without fear of everything shifting when your car is in motion. Tested and approved on the bumpy roads of Quebec đ
2- A set of blackout curtains
Curtains... Probably the most underestimated item when it comes to DIY! We can't tell you the number of times we've been told âNo need for curtains, I'll make them myselfâ, only to see you 2 weeks later telling us it was too much trouble to make after all! We know the drill, and we've been there ourselves đ Until the day we discovered WeatherTech's ultra-blackout curtains This set of 8 panels not only blocks out light when it's time to sleep, but also creates an intimate space out of sight. The curtains also help regulate cabin temperature: you keep the heat out with the reflective side, or catch the sun's rays to warm you up with the black side. They're also great for afternoon siestas đ
3- A couple mosquito screens
Nights can get pretty hot during the summer, so we like to leave the van windows ajar to enjoy every cool breeze that passes by. But if you've ever been camping between late May and early September, then you know that mosquitoes and other voracious bugs can be really annoying, if not downright life-ruining! That's why our mosquito screens are absolutely essential if you don't want to become an all-you-can-eat mosquito buffet. In addition to being made in Quebec by Van-Screen they're sturdy, discreet, and come with deflectors so you can keep your windows open even on rainy days. We love them!
4 - A good compressor cooler
Having a cooler is essential for a successful camping road trip, but having a compressor cooler? *chefâs kiss. In addition to keeping food and beverages cool, compressor cooler are much more energy-efficient than thermoelectric coolers, and can be used as a refrigerator or freezer. The little extra that makes us love them even more? Unlike conventional coolers, you won't have to chase blocks of ice every day to keep it cold, which also means no more draining the water from the bottom of the cooler and bathing food in it. You can plug it into the 12V socket that's powered when the car is running, or into the one that's permanently on (be careful not to drain your car battery though đ).
5 - Some extras
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AÂ portable battery and a solar panel, to be 100% self-sufficient in electricity during your escapades or simply to power your cooler.
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An awning to protect you from the rain or blazing sun wherever you go.
There are probably many more items that could have been added to this list, but at the risk of repeating ourselves: less is more! Traveling in a minivan means being imaginative with the limited space you have, so equip yourself intelligently. If you'd like more advice, or to see the other products offered in our online boutique, please don't hesitate to contact us and visit our website!
