Meet Kensie and Joey, a young couple with a deep desire for an alternate lifestyle and a burning passion for traveling the world. Their dream is to embark on a full-time journey in their self-converted van, taking them to new places and experiencing different cultures. They have spent three months transforming their 2010 Mercedes Sprinter 3500 into a cozy mobile home, complete with LED lights, a Fantastic fan, a propane stove, a Dometic fridge, and a magnetic knife rack. Although the van does not include a shower or fixed bed, Kensie and Joey have prioritized maximizing living space while still ensuring comfort. With two months of van life under their belts, they are thrilled to share their journey, answer questions about their van build, and offer insights on the products they have used through their upcoming website. So, buckle up and get ready to join them on their adventure!
Introduction
Have you ever dreamt of leaving behind the everyday norms and embarking on an adventure of a lifetime? Kensie and Joey, a young couple with a hunger for excitement, are living that dream. They have chosen an alternative lifestyle that involves traveling full-time in a self-converted van. In this article, we will delve into their background, learn about the transformation of their van, and explore their plans for the future. So, buckle up and get ready to be inspired by Kensie and Joey’s incredible journey.
Kensie and Joey: Living Their Dreams of an Alternative Lifestyle and Traveling Full Time
Background of Kensie and Joey
Kensie and Joey had always felt a burning desire to break free from the shackles of a conventional lifestyle. They yearned for something different, something out of the ordinary. And that’s exactly what led them to embrace a nomadic way of life. Both Kensie and Joey shared a deep passion for traveling and exploring new places. They wanted to immerse themselves in different cultures, breathe in the fresh air of uncharted territories, and meet fascinating people along the way.
Transformation of a Van for Travel
To bring their dreams to life, Kensie and Joey decided to convert a van into a comfortable mobile home. They wanted a vehicle that would not only serve as a means of transportation but also provide them with a cozy and functional living space. After much research, they settled on a 2010 Mercedes Sprinter 3500 as the base for their conversion project.
The transformation process began with gutting the van and removing unnecessary components. Kensie and Joey worked tirelessly for three months, dedicating their time and energy to craft a living space that suited their needs. From insulation and electrical wiring to plumbing and carpentry, they did it all.
Upcoming Website to Share Journey and Products
Kensie and Joey are passionate about sharing their journey with others. They believe that their experiences, both the triumphs and challenges, can inspire and empower others to pursue their dreams. That’s why they are currently in the process of creating a website where they will document their travels, provide helpful tips and resources for aspiring nomads, and even offer products related to van conversions and travel.
Background of Kensie and Joey
Before we dive into the intricacies of their van conversion, let us first get to know Kensie and Joey a little better. Both in their mid-twenties, this adventurous couple had always felt a strong urge to pursue a different path in life. They yearned for freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to explore the world on their own terms.
Their shared passion for traveling and experiencing new cultures brought them closer together. They would spend countless hours reading travel blogs, watching videos of van life, and fantasizing about their own nomadic adventures. With each passing day, their desire to embrace a traveling lifestyle grew stronger.
Joey had a background in construction, which provided him with a solid foundation of skills needed for the van conversion project. Kensie, on the other hand, had a creative mind and a knack for design, making her an invaluable asset in the planning and interior decoration process. Together, they were the perfect team to bring their dream to life.
With a clear vision in mind, Kensie and Joey set a timeline for their departure. They planned to hit the road by next spring and were eager to share their journey and knowledge with anyone who was interested in following in their footsteps.
Transformation of a Van for Travel
Details of the Self-Converted Van
The van chosen for the transformation was a 2010 Mercedes Sprinter 3500 with a 170-inch wheelbase. This particular model was selected for its reliability, spaciousness, and fuel efficiency. With a focus on functionality and comfort, Kensie and Joey set out to create a living space that would feel like home.
Features of the Van
The interior of the van boasts an array of features designed to maximize comfort and efficiency. LED lights were installed to provide ample illumination, even in the darkest corners. The addition of a Fantastic fan ensures proper ventilation to keep the van cool and fresh.
To bring in natural light and enjoy the scenic views, Kensie and Joey added a large window on one side of the van. This not only brightens up the space but also allows them to appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.
A propane stove was installed for cooking meals on the go, while a Dometic fridge keeps their perishable items cool and fresh. A magnetic knife rack mounted on the wall keeps their cooking utensils within easy reach. Countertops from Ikea were chosen for their durability and functionality.
Kensie and Joey crafted drawers using plywood and MDF, allowing them to efficiently utilize every inch of space. These drawers provide ample storage for their clothes, kitchen essentials, and other personal belongings. In addition, they installed a composting toilet for their sanitary needs, ensuring sustainability while on the road.
To make the van feel like a true home away from home, Kensie and Joey incorporated a versatile table that can serve as a workspace, dining area, or even a bedside table. This multifunctional piece of furniture adds flexibility and convenience to their living space. When it’s time to rest, they convert the table into a comfortable bed that guarantees a good night’s sleep.
Living in the Van
Shower Arrangements
Taking a shower while living in a van can be challenging, but Kensie and Joey have found a creative solution. They decided to utilize gym memberships to access shower facilities. This not only ensures they stay clean but also allows them to maintain an active lifestyle by working out regularly.
Layout of the Living Space
The interior of the van is thoughtfully designed to maximize every square inch. Kensie and Joey opted for a layout that prioritized functionality and open space. Unlike traditional RVs, they chose not to have a fixed bed or a large closet. Instead, they focused on creating a versatile and adaptable living area that can be transformed to suit their needs.
The absence of a fixed bed allows them to utilize the space for various activities during the day. By folding up the table and storing it away, they create a cozy seating area for lounging or entertaining guests. This flexibility and adaptability are essential for maintaining a comfortable and practical living environment.
Upgrades and Future Plans
While Kensie and Joey are immensely satisfied with their van conversion, they always have an eye on improvement and future upgrades. They believe that constant enhancements and adjustments will enhance their quality of life on the road and provide a better overall experience.
Planned Upgrades for the Van
One of the main upgrades they have planned is the addition of more windows. This will not only brighten up the living space but also bring in fresh air and provide stunning views of their surroundings. Kensie and Joey envision large panoramic windows that allow them to immerse themselves in nature, even when inside their cozy van.
Another planned upgrade is the installation of a roof rack. This will expand their storage capacity and allow them to bring along recreational equipment such as bicycles, kayaks, or a rooftop tent. The increased storage space will enable them to carry everything they need to enjoy various outdoor activities during their travels.
Seat Mount Improvements
As frequent travelers, Kensie and Joey understand the importance of safety while on the road. They plan to enhance the seat mounts in the van to ensure stability and reduce the risk of injury in the event of an accident. Safety is of utmost importance to them, and they want to make sure their van is equipped with the best possible measures to protect them during their journeys.
Other Potential Enhancements
Kensie and Joey are always open to exploring new ideas and innovations that could enhance their van life experience. They are constantly researching and brainstorming to find new ways to make the most of their home on wheels. From solar panel installations to smart home automation systems, they are eager to adapt and incorporate new technologies that align with their needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Living in a van and constantly being on the move is not an easy feat, but for Kensie and Joey, it’s a dream come true. The freedom, flexibility, and endless possibilities that come with their alternative lifestyle are what make it all worthwhile. They have poured their hearts and souls into transforming their van into a comfortable and functional living space. The joy and fulfillment they find in their nomadic lifestyle are evident in their smiles and the stories they share.
Kensie and Joey have no intentions of stopping their journey anytime soon. As long as they find joy and inspiration in every mile they traverse, they will continue to explore new horizons, make lasting memories, and share their experiences with the world. So, if you have ever yearned for adventure, why not follow in their footsteps and create a life filled with freedom and exploration? The open road awaits, and Kensie and Joey are proof that dreams can be turned into reality.
