We took Sheneeda out into her element this weekend for a spur-of-the-moment camping trip. Nothing too exotic. Acadia National Park. Its beautiful and has great biking trails. Like all national parks, it is still pretty quiet but is about to get real busy in a week or two.
after our first shakedown, here are some Notes regarding the homebuild:
1. Underfloor storage is priceless!
On the way up, I had 2 folding camp chairs, the coleman propane stove/grill, small bottle of propane, matches, newspaper, frisbee, and a full size 3" foam pad for under the sleeping bag! If you have underfloor storage, then you already know. If you don't have it- DO IT! The contents will change once we have interior cabinets, but I am sure the volume of the storage box will continue to be a "pleaser."
2. the overhead rear and forward storage areas are priceless!
More of the same. big cooler, all of our camp cookware, dishes, clothing, towels, toiletries, bike helmets, etc. Between the underfloor storage, and overhead storage, the floor of the van was completely clear (except for the bikes which I strapped to the wall at the rear pass. side).
3. Fiberglass high top requires extra time in parking areas to explain to people.
"What do you keep up there?"
"Do you have a bed up there?"
"What kind of rig is that?"
"Where did you get that?"
"What kind of mileage do you get?"
Overall, it was sure fun to try the van out for the intended purpose even though the build is only just beginning. It was also re-assuring to find out that there will be plenty of storage space for 2 adults for long weekends. Even more importantly, it was re-assuring that my wife enjoyed the trip and is now excited about the van project.