đŸšđŸ”„ Amazon Prime Deal Days: Van Life Edition!

It’s that magical time of year again—Amazon Prime Deal Days are here! 🎉 Starting tomorrow, October 7th and 8th, the deals are rolling in hot, and we’ve rounded up our favorite van and bike camping essentials that are tried, tested, and totally loved. Whether you’re gearing up for winter camping or getting a jump on Christmas gifts (yes, it’s already that time), we’ve got you covered.

After fully transitioning from our trusty truck camper to our beloved Storyteller Mode LT Transit van—aka Goldilocks—we’ve spent a full year chasing seasons and soaking up the van life. Spoiler alert: she’s just right. We’ll gush about her in another blog, but today, let’s talk gear.

đŸ§ș Van Life = Organized Life

When you’re living in a tiny space for months at a time, organization isn’t just helpful—it’s survival. We’ve tested everything from clunky plastic bins to heavy metal cabinets, and finally found our groove with these soft trunk organizers. They’re lightweight, easy to move, and roomy enough for everything from packaged food to our Berkey water filter.

These felt containers are our go-to for sundries, first aid, cooking gear, and snacks. They keep everything snug and rattle-free in the cabinets. And don’t get us started on these cabinet hooks—they’re the unsung heroes of van organization.

This paper towel rack is a van essential. Pro tip: add a clothespin to the end so your roll doesn’t unravel while driving. Trust us, it works.

We tag our bikes, bags, and anything we can’t afford to lose with Apple Airtags. Peace of mind, always. And when winter rolls in, this compact space heater keeps us cozy without overworking the van’s heating system.  The first one we saw that has many great reviews and wish we got, the second we have its trusty, dependable and pretty inexpensive. 

If you are like us and just not ready to pay for Starlink, we find our t-mobile with the Weboost we get reception in almost everywhere. A also nice for winter camping is this Southwest sherpa blanket it brightens up the space and is a nice snuggle for your bed. So you’re not fighting over it we like the 60×80 size and have twin Pendleton blankets with duvets on them.

đŸšČ Bike Touring Must-Haves

We’ve been pedaling through some epic bike tours lately, and these storage organizers are a game-changer. They fit perfectly in panniers and your van cabinets, keeping clothes and gear neat and accessible.  These are our favorite panniers waterproof, durable and on sale! Navigate trails and snap pics on the go with this sturdy bike phone holder. It’s a small upgrade that makes a big difference.  If bike camping or in the van, that late night relief you need to see, these rechargeables are great head lamps.

We’ve included some shots of us using these items in action—because nothing beats gear that’s been road-tested by real vanlifers. Hope these picks help you save a few bucks and make your adventures smoother, warmer, and more organized.  Happy Deal Days and even happier trails! We will be back for Christmas must haves soon. đŸ•ïžđŸšŽâ€â™‚ïžđŸŽ

Stay Vacation or Where to Stay when Heading to Sandpoint

Ahoy, fellow wanderer! Buckle up, because I’m about to sprinkle some zest into your travel tale. đŸššđŸ•ïžIf you are headed to Northern Idaho and want some camping, hiking, mountain biking and eating heaven this is the spot for you!

Springy Point Campground: Where Dreams Meet Mosquito Repellent

First stop: Campsite 22 at Springy Point Campground. It’s like the VIP section of nature’s nightclub. 🌳 For a mere $25 (or a pocket-friendly $12.50 if you’re Access/Senior Pass Holders), you get free showers, a kitchen cleaning area (because even campers need to scrub those marshmallow sticks), and a boat ramp that screams, “Launch me, Captain Adventure!” đŸš€

And the dock? Oh, it’s fresher than a minty breeze. Dive in with the fam, do a little fishing, swimming, paddling or just float like a philosophical leaf. 🌊 But beware: mosquitoes are the uninvited guests at this soirĂ©e after the heat subsides. Bring your repellent, because they’re like tiny, airborne party crashers. 🩟

The Skinny why the move to Flatbed Truck Camper versus the small slide in: The Cozy Transformer

Why did we swap our OVE Camp M and Tacoma for this Four Wheel Camper and F350? Space, my friend! Imagine a TARDIS on wheels. 🌌 It’s roomier than a kangaroo’s pouch. SO MUCH STORAGE-in the camper, in the flatbed and in the backseat of the F-350 KingCab.  This trip we had our paddleboards, inflatable kayak, paddles and more in the backseat
Plus, it plugs into shore power—yes it has solar and batteries too!

But here’s the scoop: this setup isn’t Elsa-approved for snow and ice. It’s more “spring fling” than “winter wonderland.” So, when the dumping of snow, we’ll retreat to our snug little Camp-M setup. đŸŒšïž

Pedal Power: Mountain Biking Extravaganza

Got wheels? Hop on your trusty steed (or mountain bike) and explore! đŸšŽâ€â™‚ïž Two trails to conquer:

  1. Gold Hill North Trail: A 5.6-mile adventure that’s part birdwatching, part mountain biking, and all heart-pounding fun. 🌿
  2. Mineral Point Trail: 3.6 miles of moderate challenge, with views that’ll make your eyeballs high-five each other. đŸžïž

Sandpoint’s Culinary Circus: Where Pizzas Haunt and Ice Creams Tango

Pedal across the Longbridge to Sandpoint—a town so charming, it’s practically a Disney set. 🏰 Here’s the scoop (literally):

  • Bernklau: Espresso, French crepes, German and Italian pastries, vino and charcuterie platters. It’s like Europe had a delicious baby. đŸ„â˜•
  • Bluebird Bakery: Croissants, cinnamon rolls, and sourdough bread. Your taste buds will do a happy dance. 💃 I am a cinnamon roll fan and the yummy sandwiches!
  • City Beach Organics: Gluten-free treats, salads, sandwiches and teas. The Edmondson family knows their stuff! Their daughter kicks-butt in gluten free indulgences!đŸŒ±
  • Local Yokel: Whole foods for everyone—vegans, vegetarians, and even meat lovers. No disappointments here! đŸ”đŸ„—
  • Pend Oreille Winery: Local wines, thin crust pizzas, and gluten-free options. It’s like a flavor carnival! đŸ·đŸ• Surprisingly the house bistro red is yummy and the gluten free drunken mushroom pizza and Greek salad are the bomb!
  • MickDuffs at the Old Federal Building: Haunted vibes, beer galore, and food that’ll make your taste buds do the Macarena. đŸșđŸ‘» Happy hour, live music and outdoor seating.  My favorites are the Wildwood Cedar Plank Salmon and Ahi Poke and Bahn Mi Rice Bowl.  Local tip-if you want a quieter dining experience try to get an outside table.
  • And don’t miss the foodie parade: Evans Brothers Coffee, The Bistro, Fat Pig, The Bank, Barrel 33, Einhardt’s, Pour Authority, Baxters, and the ice cream fiesta at Panhandle Cone & Snack Shack. 🍩🎉

Hike Like a Boss: Trails That High-Five Your Calves

  • Mickinnick Trail: 7 miles of switchbacks, rocky terrain, and tree roots. Crazy athletes run it, but mountain biking? Nah, it’s a big no-no and  it’s like asking a giraffe to salsa. 💃
  • Pend d’Oreille Bay Trail: 3.3 miles of lakeside bliss. Pass the hotel and fancy condos to reach the trailhead. Let’s trace the edge of Lake Pend d’Oreille Bay like stealthy trail ninjas. 🌊
  • Sandpoint Sandcreek Trail: 3.7 miles of flat, paved goodness. Wildlife views, bikes, speed walkers, skateboards, and scooters—oh my! đŸ›č🩉
  • Pine Street Woods and VTT: 20+ miles of trails and 180 acres of wildlife enjoyment. Hike, Mountain Bike but watch out for the cougars and bears, we are in wild country here!

Schweitzer Resort: Last but Not Least -Where Gravity Takes a Day Off

  • Downhill mountain biking, climbing walls, trampolines, zip lines, and horse rides—Schweitzer Resort is the ultimate playground. đŸ”ïž And that waterfall hike? It’s like nature’s confetti cannon. 🌊
  • Not up for the 2.5-mile Nature Trail Hike? No worries! Hop on the scenic chairlift, lunch at Skyhouse, and behold the jaw-dropping view. 🚡
  • There are a number of festivals and events all summer long.     

As a member and trail building volunteer of Pend Oreille Pedalers, you must try all the lower and upper basin mountain biking trails! Remember, fellow adventurer, life’s too short for boring trails. So go forth, explore, and high-five a tree (or a bear) for good luck! đŸŒČđŸ€—

Summer Fun with OVE Camp M and Toyota Tacoma TRD 6′ For Sale- See us at Overland Rally

Meet us at Overland Rally June 20-23. If you are looking for an overlanding camper that is super durable, light and great for winter camping this is what you want. We will sell just camper or include the truck. We will also deliver if you cover gas costs (we’ll keep receipts). Truck & Camper details below. Priced to sell a new camper with all our accessories would cost $50K, New Tacoma (can’t get V6 anymore) $55K.

$69K for both or $29K for Camper Only OBO-2021 Camp M Overland Explorer in mint condition-well taken care of when not in use parked in garage or under carport-winterized. Here’s why we love this combination:

  1. Durability: The Tacoma Off Road variant is a rugged companion, built for off-road adventures. Its narrow body allows us to explore even the most challenging terrain. The Camp-M is made from extruded aluminum, the interior is clean and tough.
  2. Comfort: The Tacoma’s interior is surprisingly comfortable, making long drives enjoyable. Plus, the quiet cabin ensures a peaceful journey. The Camp-M
  3. Off-Grid Capabilities: The Camp-M is designed for off-grid living. With its composite construction (extruded in one piece to prevent leaks), we can confidently camp in remote locations.
  4. Winter Camping: Thanks to the Camp-M’s insulation and thoughtful design, winter camping is a breeze. No more shivering nights!

If you’ve never heard of OEV, they’re a branch of LITE Industries Inc., from Alberta, Canada, with a knack for turning any old pickup truck into a mobile home suitable for off-grid travels and life. The campers they produce are completed from composites, extruded in one piece to ensure no leaks and tailored to fit mid-size beds from 5 feet (1.53 meters) to 6 feet (1.83 meters) in length.

The Camp-M is great off the grid and has features to make your off the grid experience more comfortable including (this is a mix of what is included and options we selected: a Truma Vario w/thermostat and AquaGo instant water heater, multi-speed MAXXfan roof vent, 20-gallon (91-liter) freshwater tank, and interior propane connection for a portable cooktop. A beefed-up electrical system is also in place and features everything from dual USB ports, a 12-volt auxiliary connection, a Redarc charger, lithium battery and 200 W solar panels. The screen door is a wonderful feature to keep the bugs out but get better cross ventilation and fresh air on those hot summer days and nights! It has a 10-pound propane tank for your heater and cooking needs. We loved the outside instant hot water shower and found standing on your tailgate to shower made it easy and kept your feet clean! Compared to many campers the electrical and plumbing are clean and organized and easy to follow. The extruded aluminum construction makes it very durable, lightweight and long lasting with no wood to fail. The composite panels have the same automotive gel coat finish as a fiberglass boat or Corvette. The aluminum extrusions are powder-coated white. If you are in a good sunny spot and near a stream for additional water, we were able to boondock a week when we were in Red Lodge, MT.

We like to do a lot of winter camping as we go searching for the powder skiing. The soft walls are rated R-4, made from a coated nylon on the exterior, a thermal fill for insulation, and a fire-rated canvas on the interior. The nylon they chose has the highest UV rating on any exterior-purposed nylon product on the market. The exterior nylon is dark grey for the highest UV block. The interior canvas is light cream to brighten up the interior. The sidewalls are designed to breathe. That prevents the sidewalls from retaining moisture. With the heater going all night and you breathing we found there was a lot of condensation, we crack the side window to help with that.

Inside the Camp M, sitting above the cab, you’ll find the bedroom with a 4″ memory foam queen mattress with an extender and additional memory foam to make it a King bedding suitable for two guests plus a four-legged friend or small child, I fit snuggly at 5’3″. A dinette sits at the foot of the bed. This dinette can also be converted into a sleeping area ideal for another smaller occupant and has storage under the seats. The cushions are made from marine grade fabric that is 4” medium-density foam. At the entrance of Camp M, you’ll find the kitchenette with a countertop, sink, faucet, gas connector for your stove, more storage and the tray for your cooler style refrigerator. We purchased the dependable, efficient Truma C63. The vinyl flooring is pretty indestructible, easy to clean and functional. The dimmable LED lights are one of our favorite features, especially as you wake up in the morning and don’t want to get blasted with a bright light right off the bat.

Dimensions: Exterior: 122″L x 77″W x 61″H closed, 83″H open Dimensions Interior: 118″L x 72.75″W x 81″H open  Dry Weight: 975 pounds

Quick walk-through of the Camper and Truck

Features:

-Cold weather package

-includes 10 rubber feet protect camper and truck bed 4
torque lift tie down latches

 -powder coated
aluminum extrusions

-OVE generation 4 composite floor

-Walls and roof R8

-Insulated soft walls R4

-locking roof supports

-gas struts assist for lift -DOT LED Lights

-Truma CP and Vario heat w/thermostat

-Truma AquaGo LP Gas instant water heater

 -continuous hot
water with sigiva outside shower connection and hose extension

-Truma C63 refrigerator

-10 speed Maxxfan roof vent

-20 gallon fresh water tank w/12v Flow Max Fluid Pump
-s/s sink w/flush mount glass top

-propane connection for portable cooktop

-entrance door grab handle

-screen door

-aluminum propane cabinet w/10lb bottle

-front east/west dinette folds down into a small bed
(28’x63.25″) w/under seat storage

-flip up countertop

-large exterior storage access via locking cargo door

-marine canvas cushions

-4.5″ medium density foam cushions -King Bed
extension

-high traffic grade Lonseal vinyl flooring

-fire rated thermal break kit and fire extinguisher

-structural powder coated aluminum interior cabinet
cabinetry

-LP/Smoke and CO detectors

-Dual USB Plug -12v auxiliary connection

-LED entry Light

-LED interior lights (dimmable)

-LED exterior lights

-REDARC BC/DC 1240 charger

-Dual Pane acrylic side window

-RIECON Titan 4 corner camper jacks heavy duty 2000 lb per jack capacity full 36″ lift

-180W solar panel

-OHMMU Gen 3 Group 31 Premium Lithium Battery 156 Amp hours 2000Wh built in BMS

-Canada Proof Battery Monitor

-Alucab 270 shadow awning (length 2.6m, weight 24 kg, shade area 10m2, aluminum construction, RHS mount, material is acrylic impregnated, with a heat reflection silver coating on one side. Has additional
water repellent coating on surface side, built in fungal resistance to prevent mold, water penetration/water column capability greater than 1000mm/1m -powder coated aluminum awning adapters

-OVE Molly rear accessory rack w /1 -2 gal water rotopax

Toyota Tacoma TRD OffRoad 6 ft bed 2021 4X4 DBL King Cab L/B 3.5LV6

Milage: 43,166

Features:

-Super white w LC27 Black Rubber truck bed protector

-TRD Premium Offroad package

-Technology Package -Leather Interior -N-FAB running boards (sanded and new 3 coast Rustoleum paint)

-Goodyear Airbags

-All weather floor liners/door sill protection

-2022 Falcon WildPeak AT3W Tires LT265 75R 16

-Bed Lights

-Bed outlet

-Mudguards

-Fluid Flow undercarriage sealer