Looking for a camping adventure?

The one day camp out!

Camping is great way to get to know your pet.

When we first purchased the 1987 Ford Econoline Get-a-way, we knew it would be a work in progress. What turns out to be the easiest part was the interior and paint, where the inner workings took time to find all the kinks. New plugs, gas tank, distributor, changing all the hoses, and so much more, but the one thing that has not disappointed us is that the Van Tiki can be packed up for one or two night campouts—getting away is perfect if all is planned.

The Van Tiki

Just like our Pop-Up the van is pre-packed with all camp necessities, seating, pots, pans, coffee and teapot, silverware, and all cooking utensils, paper, plastic plates, bowls. Paper towels, toilet paper, toilet paper covers, sanitizers were also purchase to stay in the van; once home, all is washed, replenished, and returned to shelves and drawers for the next trip. There is also a fire extinguisher, tools, first aid kit, hygiene needs like soaps, sunscreens, bug repellent, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotions, and assorted items kept in the van at all times.

Drawers also have salt, pepper, cooking oils, toothpicks; basically everything a kitchen needs, our Van Tiki is a home on notice.

The Perfect One Day Van

The Get-a-way has two bench seating on both sides of the van. Initially, a wooden plank sat between the benches, and the side cushions went into the middle to form a bed. We changed that by creating three square pads that can develop into u-shape seating, a twin bed, or a complete bed. When heading out for a one-day beach outing, setting up the bed with flannel sheets, plush pillows, and warm, comfortable bedding is the way to go.

Check out our beach van restoration story line at 65bbq.com.

One day Checklist for an afternoon at the beach.

Create a first day checklist-Keep it simple.

Sandwiches are an easy way to enjoy lunch. Easy to take out, easy to clean up.
At the campsite, pull out seating, rugs, firewood and enjoy the day with walks on the beach and easy conversation.

Dinner is a pre-made Cesar Chicken Salad with all the trimmings. Once finished, all dishes and eating utensils are placed in a plastic bag for easy once-home clean-up—leaving time for a sunset walk before sitting by the fireside. If you are taking a pet, get all bedding, treats, water, dinner packed, along with leashes and disposal bags. Don’t forget to bring two beds, one for inside one outside; even if it is for a single day-keep an outside towel ready for easy drying off. Less Sand in the camper and bed.

Checklist for Van:
Rugs inside and out
Music
Binoculars
Camera
Charger for all devices
Food-Keep it simple
Change of clothes
Towels
Outdoor drink and snack cooler
Inside refrigerator-Dinner

Firewood if local if not purchase from ranger station or camp host.

We tend to leave early than arrival time, finding a spot for a leisurely dog walk and lunch on the beach before heading to the campground for the 2:00 check-in.

Sunrise Thornhill Broome and the pelican play with the morning windsong.

The next morning starts with a freshly brewed cup of coffee, a muffin, a sunrise walk before packing up for a leisurely drive home feeling refreshed and ready for the rest of the week.

Getting away for a single day with checklist planning can make that day feel like a vacation.