Getting Started - iKangooCamping
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Getting Started
Having sold the Roo in March 2011, I need to plan for my future jaunts....
In its present state, the Kangoo van would not meet the criteria for admission to a campsite or Certified Location - which is essential for year-round use when a mains power hook-up connection (through the window) will be needed for both heating and cooking.
To fulfill this requirement, two small and fixed side windows will be fitted plus an opening rooflight to provide ventilation to the rear, together with a small solar-powered fan to extract hot air.
Because the engine is petrol, it is not possible to fit a Webasto or Eberspacher diesel heater; nor is it economic to do a retrospective air-conditioning installation so these will have to wait for the next vehicle. If this 'stop-gap' van adaptation is practical in use then, when funds allow, the Kangoo van will be replaced with a newer model with diesel engine and air-con. The heater installation will also require a 12v leisure battery and split-charge relay - desirable also for charging phone and camera batteries. In the meantime, it's something I'll have to forgo and simply charge while driving or by splashing out on a Veho Pebble type power pack.
Moving the existing units and reducing the width of the bed by 15mm to 600mm will create much more usable space. By a stroke of luck, simply overturning the top locker, it fits reasonably well alongside the wheel-arch.
A hinged sheet of plywood will cover the void between the two lockers. A second hinged ply sheet will also be fitted to the rear locker to form the bed extension when the driver's seat is pushed forwards for use at night. A mini 400W oil-fitted radiator will be secured to the nearside behind which a small table will be stored beside the passenger seat. Above the 25l jerrican will be a plastic food crate. It is all very improvised but it should serve its purpose at minimal cost and everything used has been recycled in some way!
A 25l jerrican will provide an ample water supply for 7 days. The bed plank is topped with a 100mm beanbag cushion coated in leatherette/PVC. While not the prettiest fabric, it is very practical: it doesn't absorb moisture so won't feel damp in cold/damp weather and is splashproof - important which living in a very confined area.
In the interests of keeping things simple, a pull-out plastic crate on castors fills in the gap between the two lockers. The rear lockers opens outwards into the void so easy access is required. This will be used for storage of tools, oil, tow-rope, spares and items seldom used - hopefully.