The OdysseyCamper Podcast

Send a textWherein I discuss different types of tires on your minivan camper.  Do you need all-terrain (off-road) tires, or does something else make more sense?Support the show

Send a textOn this episode, I'm going to do my best to leave politics to the pundits and just talk about some things to consider if you plan to travel with a firearm.  Discussions on the topic of firearms seem to often become discussions of rights, or the latest gadgets.  I'm doing none of this, but I am going to bring up some things you may not have considered before deciding that you will hit the road, packing heat.Support the show

Send a textIn this episode, I discuss van power systems and whether or not it still makes sense to build your own in 2025.  All-in-one power stations have come down in price, and it may be better to buy a turn-key system instead of building your own.  I'll compare the price of a popular power station ("solar generator") to my own system, along with what it will take to power the air conditioner in my Odyssey camper conversion.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion post for this episode, with photos, is located at:https://odysseycamper.com/6000-miles-mercedes-sprinter-as-an-rv/Darren from Odyssey Camper recounts his 6,000-mile journey in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter cargo van, offering insights for those considering a similar vehicle for RV conversion. He details both advantages like fuel economy, power, spaciousness, and handling and disadvantages such as turbo lag, difficult entry/exit, parking challenges, and a poorly designed backup camera. The author also discusses specific maintenance considerations and unique driving experiences compared to a personal vehicle like a Honda Odyssey, ultimately concluding that while the Sprinter has strengths, it's not a good replacement for his minivan. The blog post serves as a practical, firsthand review for potential van builders, highlighting unexpected aspects of driving a large cargo van.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion post for this episode, with photos, is located athttps://odysseycamper.com/slow-cooker-van-bread/This week we examine the benefits of using a slow cooker while traveling in a minivan camper. The author, Darren, highlights the low power consumption of slow cookers and their versatility for making various meals like stews, sauces, and even bread. A specific no-knead bread recipe tailored for a 1.5-quart slow cooker is included, emphasizing its simplicity and the pleasant aroma it creates. The piece also touches on the convenience of cooking while driving and offers links to purchase necessary equipment like slow cookers and inverters. Overall, the article promotes slow cooking as a practical and enjoyable way to prepare hot meals during minivan camping adventures.  Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion post for this episode, with photos, is located at https://odysseycamper.com/how-to-truck-stop-shower-like-a-man-or-a-woman/Yep, it's actually my voice on this one!  Let's talk about showering on the road!Topics covered in this episode:How to book a truckstop showerIt's not like Escape from Alcatraz!It's safe for women too! EtiquetteParking lot saftey and serial killersHow to defend yourself with soap-on-a-ropeThe author also provides affiliate links for purchasing recommended items.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion post for this episode, with photos, is located at https://odysseycamper.com/keeping-warm-van-plus-electric-blanket-review/This Odyssey Camper blog post offers advice on staying warm while camping in a van, focusing on both passive and active methods. Passive warmth involves retaining body heat through the use of insulated cots, Reflectix, layered sleeping bags, and head coverings. The article then discusses active warmth, specifically reviewing a Sunbeam electric blanket and its low power consumption. However, the author warns about using the blanket with modified sine wave inverters, recommending true sine wave inverters instead. Finally, the post briefly mentions using propane heaters for larger vans or extremely cold conditions, advising caution due to moisture production and oxygen consumption. The author also provides affiliate links for purchasing recommended items.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion post and 7 video series can be found at https://odysseycamper.com/tabula-rasa-the-nissan-nv200-camper-project/This OdysseyCamper episode details Darren's DIY camper van conversion project, specifically focusing on a Nissan NV200. The blog posts cover various aspects of the build, including insulation, sub-flooring, bed construction, and electrical systems. Darren shares insights into the advantages of using the NV200 as a camper base, highlighting its affordability, flat floor, and factory attachment points. He provides practical tips and modifications, such as reversing the passenger seat, while considering the constraints of a leased vehicle. The content also includes general van life advice, camping tips, product reviews, and travel stories, making it a resource for both NV200 enthusiasts and those interested in minivan camping.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textPhotos and the companion blog post are athttp://odysseycamper.com/aguirre-spring-campground/Odyssey Camper's blog post details a personal experience camping at Aguirre Spring Campground in New Mexico. The author describes the campground's amenities, off-grid nature, and scenic views. It highlights the suitability of the location for smaller vehicles like minivan campers while cautioning against larger RVs due to the tight road. The piece includes an amusing anecdote about a raccoon encounter and mentions the proximity to the Trinity test site. Additionally, the blog provides practical advice regarding cold weather insulation and promotes discount camping clubs. The author emphasizes the value of Aguirre Spring Campground despite its modest fee and lack of boondocking.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textA companion blog post can be found at https://odysseycamper.com/hiking-poles-not-just-for-old-men/This episode from Odyssey Camper, advocates for the use of hiking poles, regardless of age or fitness level. The author, Darren, shares his personal experience and the benefits he's found using them while hiking in various National Parks. He emphasizes the poles' ability to distribute weight, save knees, improve stability, and enhance endurance. Darren recommends affordable hiking poles he has tested extensively, highlighting their value despite minor issues like thin wrist straps. He also advises readers on proper usage and adjustment of the poles for optimal performance.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textThe companion blog post and YouTube video can be found athttps://odysseycamper.com/unlimited-electric-power-in-your-van-rv-or-tiny-home/Odyssey Camper is a blog and video resource dedicated to converting vehicles, particularly minivans, into campers and tiny homes. The author, Darren, provides DIY guides and impartial gear reviews for creating off-grid power systems, cooking solutions, and comfortable living spaces in small vehicles. The blog covers a range of topics including stealth camping tips, travel stories, and advice for nomadic lifestyles. Darren focuses on practical solutions for creating affordable and functional camper setups. He often references specific products and provides Amazon links for convenience. The overall goal is to empower readers to build their own customized camper vans for travel and adventure.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textPhotos and Resources for this Episode are at https://odysseycamper.com/bright-angel-lodge-grand-canyon/OdysseyCamper details a visit to the historic Bright Angel Lodge at the Grand Canyon. Darren recounts his experience staying in a remodeled room during the off-season, highlighting the lodge's amenities and proximity to the canyon rim. The review covers dining at the Harvey House Tavern, hiking trails, and booking mule rides. Practical tips are offered for planning a visit, including information about winter conditions and reservation details. The author expresses awe at the canyon's beauty and encourages readers to consider staying at the lodge. Lodge photos and details are on OdysseyCamper.comSupport me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textA companion post from this episode is at https://odysseycamper.com/van-life-obstacles-that-are-not/This OdysseyCamper.com blog post addresses common fears associated with van life, reassuring potential travelers that many concerns are overblown. It tackles issues like vehicle breakdowns, lack of restroom facilities, showering options, staying warm, and personal safety by providing practical solutions and personal experiences. Notes:Darren shares his insights on roadside assistance, hygiene strategies, and safety precautions. The overall message encourages readers to overcome their anxieties and embrace the freedom of van travel, offering resources like product recommendations and campground reviews to facilitate their journeys. Ultimately, the article aims to dispel myths and promote the positive aspects of nomadic living.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textA companion post with all resources for this episode is at https://odysseycamper.com/11-ways-to-find-nomadic-work-in-2024/Darren from OdysseyCamper.com provides a list of eleven resources for nomads seeking work opportunities. The list includes traditional job boards like Cool Works and USA Jobs, as well as freelance platforms such as Upwork and Dynamite Jobs. It caters to both digital nomads and those seeking seasonal work in interesting locations like national parks. Several options like house-sitting and campground jobs, are also mentioned for their potential to provide low-cost accommodation. The author emphasizes the importance of maintaining a steady income stream while traveling and suggests leveraging one's skills to find work. Finally, he shares his work philosophy and ethic, encouraging readers to brainstorm income ideas and remain open-minded.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textPhotos and Resources from this Episode are at https://odysseycamper.com/hacking-mount-rushmore-with-or-without-kids/Darren travels the country in his van and has travel tips and tricks for your RV trips.  In this episode, we go to Mount Rushmore and talk about a hack to make YOUR visit special.  We also give tips for some good RV campgrounds and resorts!  Notes:OdysseyCamper.com is a travel blog focused on minivan camper conversions and nomadic lifestyles. The author, Darren, shares tips, reviews, and guides related to camping, cooking, and DIY projects for vans and RVs. Specific topics include stealth camping, solar power, and destinations like Mount Rushmore and national parks. The blog also features resources for making money while traveling and reviews of campgrounds and RV gear. A central theme involves budget-friendly travel solutions and practical advice for converting and living in a minivan. Darren offers insights into both the technical aspects of van conversions and the lifestyle considerations of nomadic living.Support me with your Amazon purchasesMy Amazon gear store. Help support the show by starting your shopping here. Thanks!Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the show

Send a textLearn about OdysseyCamper (aka Darren) and his travels in a DIY minivan camper.  In this episode, we introduce you to the concept of traveling the country in a van (both the challenges and the triumphs).  You'll learn a little about what's coming up in other episodes and Darren's travel philosophy.  If you think you can't afford to travel, if you are afraid to go it alone, or if you're just curious, check out this podcast about REAL vanlife.Notes:OdysseyCamper.com is a website dedicated to converting a Honda Odyssey minivan into an economical camper to travel the country. The site's creator, Darren, provides DIY articles and videos to help others travel on a budget by converting their own minivans. The focus is on reducing travel costs and enabling people to explore National Parks in the US and Canada without spending a fortune. The site offers tips, travel stories, and information on DIY projects, with the option to follow on social media or sign up for email updates. Darren also offers many posts focused on traveling as a family, stealth camping, and travel for solo women.Support the show