Dinette VS Fixed Bed I Pros and Cons

Рет қаралды 59,186

3 жыл бұрын

In the vanlife community, one debate is as fundamental as the one who opposes flathearters and roudheaters: fixed bed vs dinette configuration. To help you pick the right set-up for your van, here is a list of PROS & CONS of both configurations.
I Are you Team Fixed Bed or Team Dinette? I
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@TJAG4evr 3 жыл бұрын

I love that you guys leave in little things like "is that the right verb tense?" It is really encouraging for people like me who are trying to get more comfortable in a second language. Stay teachable friends :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That touches me (Marie here). As you may know, I am studying second language acquisition and language insecurity is the worst. There are no bad accents and trying is no mistake. You go Tianna!

@lilymae859 3 жыл бұрын

Yes!!!! Language is for everyone! Accents are beautiful and personal ❤️🌸❤️ I teach ESL online with amazing students who are brilliantly multilingual. Keep learning and inspiring others 🎉🌸🎉

@hfortenberry 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas No need for language insecurity!! Y'all sound amazing!

@serenakoleno9338 3 жыл бұрын

I am puzzled you think y'all is Michigan. As a Michigander I always thought it was southern. Maybe upper peninsula?

@lourlopezsk 3 жыл бұрын

I'd go with fixed bed because: 1. As a short girl I would probably have a single or a twin bed. 2. I'm lazy. 3. I like the inviting friends thing but I would customize my van for me and not for other people. I could always hang out with friends outside or have few people inside. So wouldn't even do it for the storage space. For two people both options are okay depending on your job and routine.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

There you go! That easy :) If I was by myself (Marie here), I'd totally do the same.

@amandastuddard643 3 жыл бұрын

Those are the exact reasons I have a fixed bed in my very small van. :0) Plus comfort. I LOVE my 6 inch, twin memory foam mattress! I never want to get out of it!

@bwbrady8372 3 жыл бұрын

Another advantage of the fixed bed .... if she likes to go to bed early and he is a night-owl, or if he gets up early and she likes to sleep in .... they each still have a space to be in while the other is in bed. (Assuming there's a seat and table elsewhere in the van.)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That is very true, and happens a lot in our case! Must have added that to recap table at the end.

@DynamiteProd 3 жыл бұрын

I don’t have friends so fixed bed it is.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

There you go! That easy!

@linneah8211 3 жыл бұрын

Same real small circle if friends and we normally hang out in our beds anyway 😂

@DestinationsChronicles 3 жыл бұрын

That's hilarious!😆

@ameyabakre4609 3 жыл бұрын

😂

@michelebliss5431 3 жыл бұрын

Love that you're showing it's ok to figure out the correct verb tense or adjective ending as you master English. To help: Dom's use of "had not had" is the correct usage of the pluperfect tense. Marie's use of "educative" to mean it served to educate or enlighten her is also correct. It's not the usual adjective people use in the US (they use educational) but educative is used a lot in the UK, Canada and other english speaking countries. Love your videos as they are both fun and educational!😘

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ah you're amazing! Thank you for being amongst those who encourage us to speak and get better at a 2nd language.

@SatumainenOlento 3 жыл бұрын

Yes, this was helping me too!!! Because of often I wonder and the same grammar things get me confused...

@grf1426 3 жыл бұрын

10.50 Raise the floor under the seats. You will get storage space the entire width of the van. You don't need the head height if you're only sitting there. but you will loose the overhead cabinets. Alternatively or as well, have one bench seat and build up storage using the two feet or so occupied by the other bench to build a storage unit the height of the van. Then you might get a bike or two in there.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Very clever!

@grf1426 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas So kind

@adriennmichaels4682 3 жыл бұрын

Great one again. I am with dinette all the way, you do have more options like that. I know people need more storage, but I am a firm believer to take just what is necessary, for example if you have empty spaces you have the inclination to fill it up with stuff you actually don't necessarily need. In our plan for our van we will have 2 swivel seat in the front on another 2 fixed seats (for 4 person) we will use that as a living room , and will have a sofa bed in the back, so will have the option to keep it as full bed or sofa bed depending on the mood. My way of thinking of designing the layout for the van is, try to figure out how would you like to live in the rainy days. When is good weather you will always be outside... build your van so you can enjoy the rainy days 💙

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh that is so true. Truth be told, I'm shipping a box of things back home this week; things I never worn or used in the van since we left. It's in the way and we accumulated crap for nothing.

@kittlen 3 жыл бұрын

Oh no! You changed the intro music. My only ridiculous non-complaint. I just love you two.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

I LOVED the intro music too. See Dom? 🤣

@reistaylor7497 3 жыл бұрын

Educational. I like dinette better because there is a whole dining table. And the natural light on three sides when the back is open is great.

@sunshinetoes 3 жыл бұрын

I love your interactions and silly quirky spirit!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Quirky is definitely a word that fits us!

@dannygrissom1 3 жыл бұрын

Great information here you two for helping me figure out this conundrum.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Glad we could help Danny!

@alma2461 3 жыл бұрын

Omg yass! Finally! Thank you, I really needed this!!! I love your vidssssss😍😍!!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Most welcome :) Glad it helped!

@jillianjiggs1988 3 жыл бұрын

I think the word you were looking for was "Educational" :D. I love listening to you guys speak. Your accents, banter, jokes, and Quebec-isms. And your personalities are magnetic! Keep making these awesome videos. Thanks from Vancouver, BC!

@whiteeulogianraven7995 3 жыл бұрын

Greetings from Costa Rica, I've been watching your videos like crazy, not difficult to do so, your sense of humour is so keen and accurate, and sooo hilarious. Talented, good narrative, 1000 points for picture and timing, I truly love your content... But you are the shining stars, keep up, you are gonna rock it! I certainly love hidden gems, and you are one. PURA VIDA!!!!!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

One day, we'll be driving allll the way down to Costa Rica! It's on the list! Thanks for watching :)

@myworIdofexperience 2 жыл бұрын

Thanks for charing the pros and cons. In the future, when I have a van, I want the dinette one.

@grahamewebber6760 3 жыл бұрын

You guys are great, informative, unbiased,switched on, cool, funny and best of all you don’t waste time with unnecessary rants. Well done.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ahhh that's kind. As we're kind of new to KZfaq, comments like yours truly help! Thanks Grahame!

@saxonderohan9723 3 жыл бұрын

Great video! I feel like neither solution is perfect, and you clearly laid out the compromises and trade offs of each option.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Couldn't agree more. It's a personal decision and both work just fine!

@markbrady3905 3 жыл бұрын

Short time viewer, first time commenter. Super video as the great dinette vs. fixed bed debate continues. You guys are fun to watch and I now include your vids in my Sunday lineup. Thanks

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mark! Appreciate the comment and love that first time viewers comment and interact with us. Hopefully, we see you next Sunday!

@JeccaSee 3 жыл бұрын

Gotta say Dom, I love the use of the Power Stripe Yellow for your diagrams. :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh trust me, I'll be adding yellow stripes EVERYWHERE!

@lucperusse8245 3 жыл бұрын

Bonjour Marie et Dom. Je regarde vos vidéos depuis quelques semaines et je vous félicite car vous êtes très cool et très naturel. Je ne suis pas très fort en anglais mais je vous comprends très bien. Votre dynamisme et votre chimie est palpable à l'écran. Concernant la vidéo du jour, je suis en accord avec la dinette. Ma conjointe et moi sommes en processus d'acheter un Promaster, la configuration sera définitivement la dinette. Merci de partager vos idées ainsi que votre style de vie. J'adore vos vidéo, au plaisir

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Bonjour Luc! Merci beaucoup de vos gentils mots! Ça nous fait toujours plaisir recevoir un commentaire comme le vôtre! Nous aimions bien notre dinette aussi : la van a l'air tellement plus grande! Au plaisir de se croiser sur la route!

@marct4234 3 жыл бұрын

Wow you guys have really improved your content! I am bumping you up my list. Our 1994 roadtrek has the dinette and we love it. To us a big advantage is that we can keep the back door open and have an all day view as we have breakfast, lunch, supper, its all about the view and its right there. With a permanent bed you tend to hang at the side door. Also when your partner is cooking and blocking the aisle you can exit or enter through the back. We also installed a lagun table right where your table is to create more flexibility, the old post system was truly annoying.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ohhhh wow, I complet forget about that. It's true that we love having the back doors open when we work. A fixed bed wouldn't really allow that. That's something to reconsider for sure.

@kathrynbracht8398 3 жыл бұрын

Best.ever.Vanlifers.Love your energy and smarts!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Kathryn! Means a lot! See you next week :)

@katemcguire2504 3 жыл бұрын

You two killed this topic! I've watched bazillions of van build videos to help me with my conversion plans and this one is tops for a super practical discussion of which layout to choose. Sorry for you that it rained in Tofino today, but it worked out lucky for some of us subscribers. Thank you! (also Tofino is one of the greatest places on Earth). Thanks for a great video and please do keep the practical topics coming.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ah, you're amazing! Thanks Kate! That means a lot!

@humayrarahman4696 3 жыл бұрын

It's really very informative!!love it!♥ Are you guys gonna do a van tour of the fixed bed?? That looks so good!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh you! You read our minds. Coming very soon!

@kaylaparks9341 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you Marie + Dom! I really enjoy your videos and your candor. Especially love the graphic slides you put in throughout the videos - helps me integrate! I'm curious to learn about air quality living in a van. I imagine the ability to open windows and air out the space quickly is impactful, but then I also wonder about all the fuel exhaust that is right under the van, not to mention being on the roads with other vehicles. And how air quality is inside when it's raining for example, when all windows + doors need to be closed...thanks!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Very good question Kayla! When we drive, the back windows are shut. We only open then when we're parked or when sleeping. When the fan is running and the windows are open, there is a very good air circulation (it sometimes kind of feel like we have AC running when it's cold out). We have a CO2 and smoke detector in the van and nothing even beeped.

@KarleneHibbard 3 жыл бұрын

First of all, I just adore you guys. The way you interact, your perspective, your playful side - just everything. I love when you reconsider the English word. It is a great encouragement to those who are working and living in multiple languages. (Also, the word you were looking for is “educational.” 💕)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Amen! Marie here: this feels amazing to hear. As a student in second language acquisition, it's so important for me to encourage others to speak and practice a different language. No linguistic insecurities on this platform girl!

@roneykaithpalmaria 3 жыл бұрын

Ahhh I hope you do a travel blog around Tofino. Even if it’s raining! One of my dream locations.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

It is BEYOND beautiful! Sharing lots of stories on our IG page.

@sbfentress1 3 жыл бұрын

I love your videos! I am leaning towards getting a Murphy bed. I also like the sofa conversions or partially fixed bed, as well. I think it just comes down to what each person’s priorities are.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely! Couldn't agree more! Thanks for sharing!

@Trailvagabonds 3 жыл бұрын

I dig the rainy mustache, Dom! We knew from the start in our build that we wanted to safely store bikes on the inside of the van so a fixed bed was a must. We have a 159 ProMaster so it gives us a little more room for working space. We haven't completed the build yet but we will have a bench seat with a Lagun table to hopefully give us the working space we need. We also have swivels on both seats so we should hopefully be able to seat 4 comfortably in bad weather. A table for 6 would be pretty cool though!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that 159'' is perfect for that. I think our next van will be a 159'' for sure, allowing us to have a fixed bed and a dinette!

@lieve2647 3 жыл бұрын

Such a good vid! I have a fixed bed but it's been a controversial topic amongst my friends since I started converting it, haha. For me, fixed is the way to go because I still managed to create seating space for three with a slide out table next to my fixed bed. Probably because I'm on my own: my bed's only 120cm wide. I love the storage space underneath!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

There you go. In your case, fixed bed is the way to go !!

@sarahdewin5274 2 жыл бұрын

You guys are awesome, the videos put a smile everytime on our faces! We're building a dinette, but struggling with finding the table leg.. You maybe remember which one is yours? THANK YOU!

@huia9754 3 жыл бұрын

Kia ora from New Zealand (where it is also raining) Thank you for another great video! I appreciate your well put together, high quality content :) Undecided but I think I'm leaning more towards fixed bed

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! I think our next van will have both setups! Have a great week!

@catherinerobinson3669 3 жыл бұрын

I have and love my fixed bed. Because basically I'm lazy and have way more crap than I need so I enjoy the extra storage capacity. Great vid! You nailed all the whys and wherefores. I also have a 136 Promaster and have no friends so the fixed bed is better for me. 😉

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

There you go! That easy! Thanks for sharing with us!

@anasuzi5794 3 жыл бұрын

Something else to consider...We have a fixed full sized bed in the back of our pro master van that takes us at least 2 minutes in the morning to re-make. (It is a large focal point so we do want it to be neat.) My husband goes around to the back of the van and stands on the bumper while I stand on the steps we have so that I can get into the raised bed...Only being 5’1” tall, they are a necessity. We then pull the bedding up and smooth everything out. Wouldn’t work if it was raining . We really debated the idea of a fixed bed verse a dinette. Two things made our decision...the storage option and the having to set it up/break it down every day. Check out Eamon and Bec’s second van build. They kind of have the best of both worlds. Fellow Canadians, too. The steps are dual purpose...we use them at the side door to get in and out of the van. We are retiring soon and will be living in our van full time. We are in the states but hope to get into Canada at some point.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, Eamon and Beck’s setup is pretty rad. I think we just frickin love our dinette system though. It’s nice when you want a cozy home feeling with lots of people sitting around a table. Though our van is the smallest in the groups we travel with, it is often the place where everyone ends up drinking at the end of the day. Maybe it’s because of the dinette being so inviting. Anyways, we’ll see what we’ll build in the next van!

@rcheeks8963 3 жыл бұрын

My idea is to go with a raised dinette so I can get the benefit of the storage area underneath the fixed bed but the usability of the dinette.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Absolutley! That's a another great idea. We have friends who have it and they LOVE it!

@maryeshenaur6016 3 жыл бұрын

Because of my slight disability I must have a fixed bed, both for comfort and not being able to transform the bed/dinette. I love your style of vlogs...you always bring a smile to my face. Keep up the good work! 😀

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Mary! Means a lot! Thanks for sharing the ideal set-up for you!

@amandastuddard643 3 жыл бұрын

You two are my favorite! You have so much fun with each other and your personalities really shine through in your videos!

@amandastuddard643 3 жыл бұрын

Tiny Home Tours recently recorded a tour of my van if you want to see it :0) kzfaq.info/get/bejne/qcupZKV50by8cac.html My fridge box wasn't quite ready yet but I'll post some photos of it on IG. @surfgypsy13

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Amanda! You're the best! That bed on a wooden box on wheels sure sounds epic. Smart move!

@NigelMcKinley 3 жыл бұрын

Great topic and nicely presented, especially with the compassion chart at the end. Regarding the storage comparison, I would add that you did not take into account that your bedding needs to be stored in the dinette option and therefore reduces storage that could be used for other stuff. Plus, the difference in storage between the two option would be much bigger that 5 times if you had used cubic feet measurements and not square feet measurements. You did not allow for the extra storage gained by having the fixed bed at a higher level than the level of the benches in the dinette. Although Marie mentioned this in her presentation :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Hi Nigel! The bedding is not stored in the storage below the seat, it is stored in the van, in the compartment over the flight deck. Promasters have that tiny space that is perfect to store blankets and pillows. As for the measurements, we did use cubic feet, cups! But thanks for being so rigorous :)

@SatumainenOlento 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas He meant that when you have fixed bed, you don't need to store your bedding in the different compartment, because it lays ON the bed all day. So that comparments above the cap can be used for something else. So really, the storage space is even less than! And it does depends how high you build your fixed bed, but normally higher than the dinette benches ( where you sit and your feet must touch the ground). That is again, even more storage with a fixed bed.

@delararesadv9140 3 жыл бұрын

Hey guys! another great vid! (Glad Dom got the laptop fixed!) You were looking for ideas...how about an old school map vs gps/maps - pro/con challenge! bet you guys could make that hilarious! Much love, have a good new week ♥️

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh man. That would be interesting and we'd fight in that video.Dom is all about the paper maps.

@BarryDuttonSellsHomes 3 жыл бұрын

I nearly spit out my toothpaste at the start when Dom said "Let's talk about my mustache" lol -- another good video with lots of practical content mes amis. How is my Gr. 7 French holding up after 35+ yrs? Hahaha!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Hahaha all you remember from that grade 7 class is ''mes amis''. C'mon, you must have another one?!

@LilyWasHereMB 3 жыл бұрын

Very good points even if a rainy day filler. I think most if not all cons on fixed bed solved by bigger van and thoughtful layout. Someone famously said, vanlife is about living out of a van, not in a van my van, a 170 extended still in conversion, has fixed bed (8" mattress), bench/dinette seats in front of bed with pull-out table (Trent & Allie style), dinette can be converted into a sleeping area for 1 - or to keep dogs off bed. there is another 1 seat bench opposite slider with a lagun, and dual swivel seats. So, seats 5 w/o folding chair and no one on bed. all seat positions have laptop-work areas. After comfort of fixed bed, a BIG pro is tons of storage under bed, freeing up inside storage which helps reduce clutter in living area. Also allows, allows carrying 4-season clothes and gear. My van has shower, compost toilet, AC, 75L fridge/freezer, gas stove w/oven and no claustrophobic tall cabinets. Now, suggested topic: Surviving the drive across the prairies

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Couldn’t agree more. It our little 136, these were simply not possible, but in a longer version, totally. As for that “how to survive the drive in the prairies”, might be loooonnngesssttt video.

@KarlCourage Жыл бұрын

I’m thinking a raised dinette for my van build in an Promaster 159 extended. I’ll put swivel seats up front and a Laguna table. When I’m alone I can can always leave the bed set up and eat or work up front and when I have company, use the dinette option. I’ll make cushions from a 6” foam mattress so it will still be pretty comfortable bed.

@kelson63100 3 жыл бұрын

Your English is on point, and I love that you don’t get too fussed over it. That’s the way it should be. Je sais que je dois practiquer plus en francais aussi, mais je suis tres genest de le faire. 😊. What are your fave meals in Van life?

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ahhh thanks Kelson! That means a lot! We'll be fully bilingual at the end of this KZfaq Channel! Favourite meals, coming in a video soon :) Stay tuned!

@Loruca 3 жыл бұрын

I am so impressed by your language skills. I have a hearing deficiency which makes understanding accents and dialects difficult, but I have absolutely no trouble with you. Sure, you have an accent, but we all do. I spent a short time in Japan and did a little bit of English coaching, and found I was correcting a lot of pronunciations until I asked the students where their previous teacher had been from. Australia. I am Canadian. That explained a lot of the differences, so, instead of trying to change them, I was able to tell the students that they had learned well.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

You're amazing! That message means the world to me (Marie). As a student in 2nd language acquisition, I'm always pleased to know people encourage accents and various languages. You're amazing Ruth!

@SatumainenOlento 3 жыл бұрын

This was ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT video about the subject!!! Thank you!!! I am thinking of having a rised platform for the dinette. That would add extra storage quite a lot, but would still keep the dinette function. And if the rise would not be too much (one step or 2 small ones) it would not be too uncomfortable. Maybe. It needs testing in the real space, because you can design in 3D mind as much as you like, but it does not give the right feel for it. Also overhead cabinets would need to be smaller. And it might result head banging for tall guys. Also, thinking of...maybe there would be a way to have a bed which folds to a couch for the day. With a good mattress. Hmm... Thank you for your rainy day video! It is most useful and inspirational!!! 😀 Happy days for you on the road 💗💗💗

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That raised dinette is something we didn't think of when building the van, but it's epic. If we had to do again, we might have done that!

@shannonmarie2.0strickland36 3 жыл бұрын

I literally went back and forth with this for weeks before my build. Because I have a 170 extended I decided the fixed bed with garage. I was still able to have a dinette area. However, I love the look of the extra large dinette set up. I love your van. This is a great video I was going crazy over this decision.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yay! Glad it helped a little. Send us pictures of your van. Always looking to get inspired by others! Thanks for watching Shannon!

@shannonmarie2.0strickland36 3 жыл бұрын

I will. It am starting a Chanel shortly. But I will send you some as soon as I pick it up. Thank you

@AdrienneLawrence1 3 жыл бұрын

Y’all’s sense of humor ... 🤣 And a friendly heads up from a native U.S. English speaker: Educational. “Hope that was educational.” (As in we learned something.) And you could totally teach me everything about your native languages. Great video. Been debating, so the pros and cons are fab. Also interested to see how Eamon and Bec’s inventive layout works since it’s a bit of a hybrid. ✌️

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Adrienne! Eamon and Bec actually have both, a fixed bed and a sort-of dinette. Their van is 2-3 feet longer than us, allowing them to do that, but it's genius!

@lydiak.1254 3 жыл бұрын

Oo. Please talk about how you find parking spots. Or cost/time to build.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Cost to build is on our YT channel, you can find that there.

@markymarks3805 3 жыл бұрын

I’m considering a bed in the roof, on either actuators, or the happijack lift system, have the dinet all day, with the bed lifted in the ceiling, at bed time, press a button and the bed comes down.

@Trailvagabonds 3 жыл бұрын

Now that's luxury! Best of both worlds, haha

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That's another option, but in that case, can you add storage under the lift system?!

@debbydhill 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas I thought the same thing as Marky Mark S, I would store the paddle boards underneath the mattress and when it went up all you had to do would be raise the table. The only problem with this is you would lose the overhead cabinets.

@alejandrozanattastewart5393 3 жыл бұрын

I would like to suggest the option of a murphy bed, like Tio Aventura. It combines the less hassle with the bed and the living space. Great video as usual! Greetings from Uruguay!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely, the Murphy bed is quite high on the possibility list for the next van!

@annihilatedbutcomingback1119 3 жыл бұрын

love both the energy and enthusiasm you guys have 🤗💗 so over the vanners that are showing up in swim suites (half naked) anyway I've always like the fixed bed idea , but love your insights on both, makes me think differently , I'm on a small van now but going to look at a bigger one tomorrow , so excited. Anyway just subbed you guys are uplifting 🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh that pleases me (Marie here). You will never see me wearing a bikini either in the thumbnail, either in the video (alright, besides if we're swimming or talking of showers). Thanks for the love!

@annihilatedbutcomingback1119 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas awe thanks Marie🌹 I just now saw this as I was finishing up watching your video on how to install a ceiling , Y'all are awesome, so glad I found your chanel , very informative and I so dig the music , just everything. I wont be able to sleep i go to see the van tomorrow, the one I have now I call Betty, the new one will be Judy (big booty Judy, ha , since I can put lots of junk in the trunk😂) Wasnt putting down anyone who swims btw just half or more of them seem to be thumbnails of sexy stuff , chhhheeeeessssy 🤪 anyway, yall are CLASS🤗🇺🇸 hugs from The Sierra Nevada's

@sophiemarcaurele 3 жыл бұрын

Vanlife Sagas- wait, how about Dom in a bikini then? Non? 👙 🤔😅

@AntonVilanov 3 жыл бұрын

05:27 Interesting how Marie recalled playing cards as soon as her hand slipped into the pocket... Dom, you've been warned!! 😂😂

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Hahahahaha she has to be a cheater. Plus, she ALWAYS win. 🕵️

@pauline919 3 жыл бұрын

great video !

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Pauline. More videos on our channel!

@paulgardner4931 3 жыл бұрын

Another great vid kids, the way you's bounce off each other, very funny.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Joseph! Appreciate it!

@pascalhellyys644 3 жыл бұрын

Hello cousins !!! Very interesting for those who have a choice to make. Do not forget the murphy bed and the fixed bed system that is raised to the ceiling to make room for a dinette. I also saw a van where sleeping consisted of a hammock fixed to the walls and which left room during the day for hammock chairs ... The choice is often conditioned by the number of people on board and the storage capacity of materials that we need.

@grf1426 3 жыл бұрын

Murphy beds always have a problem with airing them out. Beds need ventilation

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh really? Never thought of that. But that has to be true! Thanks for sharing that Gerard!

@janadawn68 3 жыл бұрын

I’d always go with dinette. I love the open look and versatility. Your van looks so roomy like you have it....2 minutes to assemble/disassemble...not so bad, really 😊 Hope you get to some sun soon! Be safe, have a wonderful week! Hugs to you both from Kentucky 🧡

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Jana! Your wish must have worked, ALL SUNNY today!

@janadawn68 3 жыл бұрын

I’m good like that!! 😊🤘🏼

@ChristianSchaffer 3 жыл бұрын

I love your videos!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

We love you! Soooo looking forward to crossing paths on the road.

@shesgotideas 3 жыл бұрын

Staying up late in Aus to get these uploads! Thanks for the fab content!

@huia9754 3 жыл бұрын

Hey! I'm in NZ doing the exact same thing 😂

@shesgotideas 3 жыл бұрын

@@huia9754 Yes! love that!

@danielbastien6583 3 жыл бұрын

@@huia9754 Hello from Canada...Check this out, They made it to NZ kzfaq.info/get/bejne/l9qIncVnnLO0mGQ.html

@huia9754 3 жыл бұрын

@@danielbastien6583 thanks! that's actually how I found this channel

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh Australia! So high on our list! We'll see you one day, for sure !!

@emiliefaucher285 3 жыл бұрын

Fab video as always! Also, team dinette for the win! :) Also, knowing you, I'm sure you will make the most of Tofino despite the rain. Also, I miss ya! XO

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

LOVED TOFINO! It was beautiful. Now headed North to see more orcas !! See you soon belle-soeur xx

@emilyhabben2799 3 жыл бұрын

Ana White purchased a foam mattress and cut it up for cushions for a tiny home build. Two birds(comfort and dinette) one stone.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That's what we have now. Learned that the hard way :( Thanks for Sharing Emily!

@miguellloret5733 3 жыл бұрын

That's a very important topic to talk before designing a van. I have bought a Ford Transit and I like very much not only your dinnette system, but your design of the van. The only thing I think we are going to change (as people talk in other comments) is elevating the seats and the table, so we could use the storage down the floor to put our bikes. Nice video guys!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

That’s a brilliant idea, just keep in mind the overhead cabinets might not work as you won’t have enough headspace.

@miguellloret5733 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas yes... Actually we don't know how much space we are going to need. It's our first van and we are not going to live there full time, just for weekends and some holiday weeks. Anyway, our van has 2 meters of height. So maybe we could have both things? Storage is something that makes me feel crazy :(

@browneyedgorl11 3 жыл бұрын

The multi-functionality and open concept design has me sold on the dinette! I love that when you have a dinette you have the option of keeping it set up as a bed if you’re feeling lazy but you can always convert it back to a dinette if you have company over. If it stays as a bed majority of the time you could also store some things underneath without having to have the fixed bed for that added storage (if that makes sense). Can you tell I have commitment issues? 🤪

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Hahah girl, you want to talk about commitment issues, I'm in! I have the hardest time committing to things, but don't regret that dinette just yet!

@perfectpeacetaichi1232 3 жыл бұрын

I’m going for both because I need to work and socialize as well as get ALL my rest and storage for my activities 😉💃🏽 🏍

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Voilà! There you go!

@geewhiz6598 3 жыл бұрын

I love the graphic you created at the end to show which bed/table approach you feel “wins,” based on each criteria! Excellent. You all are great teachers. This was ALSO really helpful for generating clarity around what WOULD be my top desires and uses for a van, if I had one. P.S. It would be really fun for me as a native English-speaker to get to hear more of you two speaking French. :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Gee! As lots of people are starting to recommend the ''French classes'', I think we're going to start adding a little segment in our videos. Thanks for the suggestion.

@MikeKilo1969 3 жыл бұрын

Hey, so I know I’m really late here, but you could always do half dinette with a Murphy bed. Great video, love your channel.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Never late, since we are always building stuff. Thanks for your comment!

@melindamarie6139 3 жыл бұрын

I have a fixed mostly 4 comfort and i use other spaces as a table area n i don't have much company. Besides i feel it is my space so they have 2 deal lol!! But....i love both ways n a dinette does look nice! ✌&💙

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Dinettes are amazing for gatherings and stuff. But we are thinking of the fixed bed for the next one, thinking we can sit people elsewhere in a bigger van!

@betzaidavazquez5579 3 жыл бұрын

Excellent video !! Informative , entertaining and just what we all need. Thanks for Sharing 💗 🚐 👍

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yay! Glad you liked it! Thanks for tuning it :)

@gayes8298 3 жыл бұрын

Welcome to Vancouver Island! Tofino is awesome rain or shine.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Tofino is beautiful! Don't want to leave this place.

@gayes8298 3 жыл бұрын

Vanlife Sagas I think Dom mentioned in a previous post that you guys are travelling for work...will you explore Vancouver Island for a while? I’m very interested in getting a van conversion and have found your posts entertaining and helpful. Thanks so much! If you plan to be in Victoria, drop me a message!

@deborahhewitt8688 3 жыл бұрын

We have a fixed 'French bed' in our UK caravan. I do struggle to get the covers on neatly due to confined space and no tucking room. If anyone sits on it for more than two minutes it's messed up again. See also: crumbs in bed, sandy sheets, spilt drinks! At least with daily make up you can shake the sheets outside. Oh the decisions!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Tooootally feel you! Story of our live. Dom brings sand in the bed ALL THE TIME.

@wilsonwombat3456 3 жыл бұрын

Only two choices? What about an adjustable bed, sofa bed, rock and roll bed, lift bed, Murphy bed or the ever van popular pull out slatted bed? Somehow, I think you will stick with the dinette, given your work needs and social life. 🥂 Personally, I will be going for a manual adjustable bed (0 - 85 degrees, think sun lounger style) so I can have a decent mattress, sit up/lean back in comfort and have plenty of storage underneath. Hold onto the Lagun table thought. I'm currently developing/hacking a lagun type table that can also tilt 15 degrees on the horizontal (great for laptops), 15 degrees on the vertical (for viewing a tablet/portable tv/book) and will store relatively flat against a wall in either in length or height. DIY cost will be around $50 plus table top. This may suit your front of van workstation dilemma and/or add an extra food prep surface. I'll let you know when I've got it done. 👍

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh there are toonnns of ways to sleep in a van, just wanted to help people figure out the difference between Fixed and Dinette as this a frequent question we get!

@soley3033 3 жыл бұрын

I'm planning my lay-out and build, and am going to go with a murphy bed. I like to sit crisscross applesauce, so I'm planning to have an extended seat bench which will in turn give me more storage. Take a look at the Tio Adventura channel on their most recent build. Like you, I'll be working full time on the road, and need laptop and extended monitor space. Great video

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah Tio Adventura's channel is pretty sweet! Their setup is gold! If you have any questions, don't hesitate! Thanks Ligmie :)

@LetBBB6345789 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for asking and answering he cracks question. Not sure why the two of you basically talk a out the same pros and cons, separately

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Very good question, we had the same reflection when editing the video. Actually, the pros of the dinette, are the cons of the fixed bed, and vice versa, which explains it. Good eye (or ear).

@iskean 3 жыл бұрын

Super vidéo, comme à chaque fois! Le choix dépend de chacun et du véhicule, mais nous concernant, on a opté pour un lit fixe, clairement pas envie de devoir faire le lit / la table tous les jours, 2 fois par jour. Et pouvoir travailler confortablement sur une table pendant que l'autre reste chiller dans le lit est important pour nous. Et puis une dinette ne permet pas de ranger des vélos à l'intérieur, ni tout l'équipement sportif. C'est certain qu'un ProMaster 136" ne laisse pas beaucoup de possibilités, mais un peu plus grand permet déjà d'avoir un lit fixe, une petite banquette en U pour travailler et recevoir, et l'espace pour la cuisine. Faut juste bien jouer avec les mesures, comme le font Ikea :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Voila! Vous avez tout compris. Dans un 136, un choix s’imposait. Avec une plus grande van, complètement différente histoire.

@ktk2094 5 ай бұрын

I like your van. I prefer the dinette also.

@nathalielaizet2219 3 жыл бұрын

Personnellement j'ai aménagé mon fourgon quand mes enfants étaient petits. J'ai donc apprécié la dinette. C'était même une obligation, sinon j'aurais vite dormi avec des morceaux de chips, des grains de riz ou des pions de jeux de société :-) Maintenant qu'ils ne viennent plus, je dois avouer que le lit reste souvent en place !!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Hahaha même avec un adulte (Dom), je trouve des chips, des graines de riz ou des pions de jeux de société dans le lit 🤦‍♀️

@moniqueslikkerveer6158 3 жыл бұрын

Or a fixed oneperson bed that you can pull out to the side. To make it a two person bed. The other matras you can put it up on the oneperson bed or use as backcussion. Greetings from the Netherlands.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ohhh that's actually very smart! Thanks Monique! Might have to consider that for future builds.

@sonyagregoire6965 3 жыл бұрын

j’adore notre boite campeur cirrus de nucamp…on a justement les 2 …la dinette et le super lit queen ! on se retrouve quand même à monter et démonter la dinette pour le lit des chiens :)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ah oui, avez-vous une photo? On serait curieux de voir le setup!

@sylviecaron6869 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! Very informative indeed! I personaly think that the fixed bed is better and I would arrange the front to work and eat. I would probably want to eat outside though whenever possible. That's only what I think right now, since I have no experience what so ever in living in a van, I don't actually know. This video is great!! :-)

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks Sylvie! Yeah, we tend to eat outside a lot, besides on days where it rains. Thanks for the continuous support :)

@theresahartman7465 3 жыл бұрын

Have you seen Eamon and Bec’s new set-up? They have a dinette/sofa/fixed bed system that seems pretty great. Part of the bed (which is raised) folds down to create the sofa back. The center of the sofa can be removed to mount on a stand to create a table!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yes, but not possible in a short 136 like ours.

@theresahartman7465 3 жыл бұрын

I don’t know why not, since it’s the same amount of space as a stationary bed. Ah, well! Chaqu’un à son goût!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Theresa Hartman don’t they have a fixed bed + a dinette that turns into another bed?

@theresahartman7465 3 жыл бұрын

Yes, but it’s mostly beneath their bed. Look at Humble Road. He’s got one that is completely covered by the bed, but during the day, it hides the part of the bed that folds away. I just KNOW. this is doable for you, if you want a dinette AND increased storage (AND a comfortable bed!).

@rinsercal 3 жыл бұрын

I went with a full-size queen bed, sleeping lengthwise in the van. However I made it where half of it slides in, revealing my 2 person banquet with a slide out table. This allows me all the comforts I could want, except having 6 people over for dinner or game night.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

There you go! That's another brilliant idea!

@AlexanderSauerPlaysWithHeroJr 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks ..hihi...needed that.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Most welcome!

@belscott1461 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video. Your layout is our favorite. We just have an unrelated question. We are debating between buying a 1500 Promaster or a 2500. Did you choose a 1500 for any specific reason? Thank you.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Very good question. The 136 only came in 1500, so we opted for that. We wanted the shorter version to park and sleep everywhere, but our next will be longer to add a 3rd passenger.

@DaphneLowe 3 жыл бұрын

The bed setup like in the Travato K or Boldt requires fewer compromises than the traditional dinette. Because it's long enough to sleep longitudinally, when used in the twin bed configuration, there's less setups/breakdown time and real mattresses can be used (the width will probably need to. be trimmed).

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, we thought of that setup with its advantages. We would have to redraw the whole van though, I think! We’ll start sketching stuff for the next one! Thanks for your help!

@TheViewfromBethlehem 3 жыл бұрын

Yet another A+++ video, thank you! I have a tech question re 'post'. How (using which program) do you make your graphics, such as the Recap sheet at 13:20? Can you make that using Premiere or is it an export from Illustrator or Photoshop? That is just one example of how your video quality stands out from everyone else's.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you for the love! That means a lot. We use Illustrator to the illustrations. Once you figure it out, it's fun to use and quick to edit.

@luludeoli 3 жыл бұрын

Vocês são muito legais, gosto muito dos vídeos e tudo mais.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Muito obrigado! Agradecemos muito! (Thank you Google Translate)

@luludeoli 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas kkkkkk

@Slugcat317 2 жыл бұрын

I'm going with fixed cause I can provide a place for my dog to sleep and maybe fit a refrigerator in there as well

@vanlifesagas 2 жыл бұрын

Fixed have more storage indeed.

@rudivandoornegat2371 3 жыл бұрын

Depends on the size of the vehicle. Extended 170" Sprinter you can have fixed bed plus dinette. Short vans you'll always need transforming furniture if you want to have it all.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Absolutely. In a 170, no problem. But in a small space, can’t have both!

@oneeyedphotographer 3 жыл бұрын

Lift beds? Murphy beds? I currently think my bed will be a box. When the lid is down, it will be workbench height. Possibly, I could use it as a standing desk. Lid up for sleeping. Box depth, sufficient for made up bed. I might make the whole thing swing up too, in the style of a Murphy bed. Desk, similar. Foam inside to keep notebook and accessories safe. If the foam is glued inside the lid, I don't need to move them. I plan to attach electrics to a plywood panel then decide where to put it. At the moment it's arguing with the desk. And there's the Waeco.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Two other great options.

@Stubby1031 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah I've always wanted a dinette but my lazy self is saying "you'll never make your bed, know yourself!" 😂😂 But when you guys said that it's not comfortable, I had to change my mind... My bf's back isn't the best and we need the comfiest bed as possible. Sigh... So many choices hahah! Thank u for another great and informative video!❤️❤️

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ahhhh decisions, decisions. It was the hardest for us too! Perhaps get a slightly better van and have both systems?!

@Stubby1031 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas that would be the dream!! It's going to be interesting to place 2 different work stations too! It's really like Tetris! How can we fit in as many things as possible into this small van 😆

@claudiano_jr 3 жыл бұрын

One option would be to raise the entire dinette area. With that you will loose overhead space BUT will gain a lot of space bellow the entire dinette.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Damn, that's smart! I think we've seen that before in other people's vans. We always wondered if it was that useful though.

@NinaThoren 3 жыл бұрын

I never like the fixed bed (I don't have bikes or other big things to store) but the dinette sometimes seemed like a hassle (it's not "quick & easy" when you need to speed up the video when you fix it) so my solution for my design was a murphy bed and some extra seating. That way I can leave it down and still have a place to sit!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yup! That murphy bed is another great option. Should've added that to this video as well!

@karenshannon2772 3 жыл бұрын

I bought an Ikea memory foam bed mattress, took the cover off and cut it into cushions with a serrated bread knife and recovered it reusing the original cover and then an upholstery fabric. A few £100 British pounds - not £1000’s and so comfortable

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh Karen, you're clever! Fortunately, we were able to keep the fabric/covers from those $1000 cushions, but was still a rip off for sure.

@slowmadders 3 жыл бұрын

Was thinking about doing this too but not sure if it was a crazy idea or not, definitely doing this now, thanks!

@roxane444 3 жыл бұрын

Love your videos 😁😁 I'd go with the dinette for the versatility ✌️(for storage you could elevate the dinette/Bench to have a storage under🤔🤷🏻‍♀️) for myself I have a slide bed above the driver seat , I just push it the the morning and at night I pull it and voilà my bed is made 😜 but it can be hot in heat wave (so in that time my couch/dinette transform into a bed hihi )

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Wooo your set-up looks amazing. Where can we see that? Looks smart, especially for kiddos.

@roxane444 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas yes it is very nice but I have nothing to do with it , it was made this way 😉 on the other end it is doable to do it yourself!(could be below the dinette instead of the Driver) On Instagram you could check out @HoliVanAdventure ✌️(I have a post that shows it)

@roxane444 3 жыл бұрын

@@vanlifesagas also for kids, I saw something I thought was Nice , they swivle the Bench facing each others and put a matress There. That did inspire me to do it one Time at a festival when we were 5 to sleep in the van. Slept very good (I'm 5'2"), my legs were a bit folded but I tend to sleep like that so it was ok. For a every Day thing if the person Height is below 5 foot it could work. ✌️

@ornellalerouzic8809 3 жыл бұрын

Salut ! J'adore vos vidéos, la qualité est super ! Qu'utilisez-vous comme logiciel pour faire les animations ?

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Merci beaucoup! C'est vraiment gentil! Pour les animations, nous utilisons Adobe Premiere Pro et Illustrator.

@mawaikaduran797 3 жыл бұрын

You guys should check out Eamon and Bec's latest van build they did a fixed bed this round around and the layout is pretty good!!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

We’ll check that out! Thanks for the recommendation!

@musicinfinity4016 3 жыл бұрын

Have a look at Trent and Allies Promaster Van they have a fixed bed and then a table that comes out, which they used to work from the road. I have a question, do you get condensation on the back doors, since it doesn’t look like you’ve insulation with all the metal showing. Just interesting, because my bro is going to convert Fiat Ducato, which is equivalent to the promaster. Keep the videos coming, I love to watch, and love the music you put on your videos. 🤘❤️💙❤️💙

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, that would be perfect, but in a little 136'' Promaster like ours, it wasn't possible. You need a longer version to have a ''dinette'' and a pull-out from the bed. As for condensation, we rarely get it. We ventilate at night allowing for air to circulate in the van.

@mikestevens2053 Жыл бұрын

Biggest advantage to me of a convertible dinette is having a proper table. Especially for those like us who travel in the shoulder seasons or winter. When it's raining sideways or snowing and the days are shorter it's really nice to have a substantial inside table to eat, work, play board games, morning coffee, read, etc. Don't like to do any of these things in/on a bed. It's different for everyone of course.

@Budgies_Melody 3 жыл бұрын

I love you guys 😘😘

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Thank you! See you next week :)

@bettinal.7123 3 жыл бұрын

Hello to you two, my boyfriend and I on a Adria Twin Supreme 600 Spb. Please Google it (These are KZfaq Videos as well) to see the exact layout. We love it cause it has both a nice dinette wich sits up to four people and a fixed bed, which allows me to take naps anytime I want. It also has a wet bath. Which to is great. The layout is the most popular one in Vans here in Germany but I think in all of Europe as well. Of course it has a few drawbacks as well, but we love the versitility (a word?) of it and we don't live in it fulltime just on weekends and vaccations. But maybe you could eventually build xour idea of it and manage to get both in your next van. Keep up the great content and your fun and charming way to present it. Greetings from Bettina

@Loruca 3 жыл бұрын

versatility. You were close!

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Oh that's neat! If only our van was slightly bigger, we could that. But with our little Promaster 136, we would have lost so much storage space in the kitchen unit

@grf1426 3 жыл бұрын

08.27 If we hadn't had this I think it's called the pluperfect. French has it also, I think

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Ah. There you go! Thanks Gerard!

@SpaceTim-sr9lf 3 жыл бұрын

Any thoughts on a raised dinette? I've seen some vans with one or two steps to get up to the dinette. I guess it would be a little bit of a trade-off to get more garage space and give up a little of the open feeling.

@vanlifesagas 3 жыл бұрын

Yeah, love that idea! Might consider it in our next van! It adds more storage for sure!