Slow day today as the weather is awful. We have had 33 knots of wind, so good job we stayed inthe marina. So I though I would write this.
While getting ready with our van and also the first few days travelling with it, we refined a few things for our travel. Below, are a few things we have done differently this time, that seem to work well for us.
Induction Hob
So if you are plugging in to an electric hookup then having a single induction hob works really well. You are paying for the electrcity , then why not use it. Also, more eco than gas! (especially at the minute).I converted an old wine box so that it would fit over the gas burners. I also carry an extension lead so that we can cook with it outside in the awning. It is so much quicker than gas. Well worth it.
Cable bag (storage)
(Sainsbury's re-useable veg bag)
We always have lots of gadgets when we travel as I need to be able to keep my web site designing work going. I have normally put them in a computer or camera bag, but you can’t see them and they always seem to be a pain to get at. By using one of these bags, it is easy to close, and you can see what is in at and get to it quickly.
Quick charge multi USB and 12v Adaptor
2 USB slot 12v plugs are readily available and it is generally OK , but this device gives 4 USB ports and 3x12v connections from one. By having this plugged in next to the sink we can charge almost everything. I can charge USB devices while also charging my Jackery battery. It also works with the next hack – cable bucket.
Cable Bucket
Blue collapsible bucket
On the subject of cables, our main charging point in the van is a 12v outlet near the sink. Not ideal, but where else could you put it. Using the device above it fits into the blue bucket, plug the cables and deivices in and it is protected from any splaches and also the cable is long enough we can move it out the way of the sink completely as required. The only drawback is that it is a bit like spaghetti in there but……
BIG Battery
Jackery 240
As I need to work enroute then it was important that I could keep my laptop running. I have an inverter that wold run off the leisure battery, but I would always be worried about running it down. This Jackery battery works as I can plug it into the 12v socket and effectively charge it from the solar panel on top of the van. I can also charge it from the van’s dashboard 12v socket as we drive along. The OOWolf adpator also lets me plug other things into it and charge them as well.
Weight the bin
Waste bin
The bin we bought in Spain kept falling over…. all the time! So I cut a heavy piece of wood and using sticky backed velcro stuck it on the bottom and the extra weight stops it falling over! Now I just need to find something that keeps the top on!
