VAN LIFE lessons learned the hard way | FORD® TRANSIT TRAIL™ REVEAL 

You know, the fact that a major manufacturer would go THIS far in producing a purpose-built vehicle really speaks to the strength of the #VanLife and conversion community. It's clear they took a LOT of design cues from some of the most popular conversions out there. Obviously, the option to purchase a van as barebones or as pimped out as you can afford is really attractive. Nice job.

I've learned so much from your videos, the love of the kreg jig, you can never do enough research, it's ok to be nervous/anxious about your build, it's ok. Nothing is permanent, you can always change things as you go. Coffee tastes better above 6,000 ft during Sunrise 🌅. Thank you so much for being a inspiration for all of us who were once too afraid to open that door to the world. Stay safe!!! All my love to you and Akela ❤🐾❤🐾❤

Watcihing you brings me so so so much joy.

All of these added options of a Ford Transit 350 AWD HR are awesome. But what I could afford was a Transit 250 MR. Choose the van you can afford. Don’t drown yourself in debt. There is always going to be a better van out there than what I have. But I am grateful for MY van.

I think you’re running toward adventure, mountain trails and streams, the colors of the desert and mesas, sunrises and sunsets, and wilderness areas untouched by the hand of man. You are my hero.❤️

Awe, you sold me! I’m just finishing a 6 week solo van build, (doing it outdoors, just west of you, 2 blizzards, so far) in the Northwoods of WI. I’m 99.5% done AND my radiator light just went on!!!! My 20 year old Sprinter is sick and I am about to take an 81 year old on one of his ‘bucket list’ journey. This is the 2nd time my van ‘got sick’ when I had an end of life mission (I am an and of life Doula, one of my favorite parts of the job is taking people out to check something off their bucket list). This van sounds incredible! Definitely built for back rad adventures. And I love how you shared some of the folks behind the Ford Transit Trail, that says a lot coming from you. Thanks Linnea! Stay warm!

❤ just hearing your soothing voice & even just seeing a glimpse of precious Akela, makes my day! Give Akela a warm hug from her biggest fan! ☺️

sooooo amazing to see you work such a big sponsor! congrats, very proud of you, Linnea!! I don't know if I have ever been this excited about a sponsored video before haha!

I've been dreaming of a Transit for awhile now, this really ramps up the dreaming. Perfection would be having a 4x4 model. And your video skills are awesome BTW, Ford should buy this footage for their commercials. Going to share with a friend that manages a Ford dealership 🙂

wonderful work! in these cold days, please make sure you still get some fresh air into your living space.

Interesting video to post as you are, .... winter camping. Thank you for the informative video, with your comments.

Well congratulations on your new adventures hope to see a lot more

Rewarding build your self / especially if lived out van before so know what need and don’t! Thx sharing!

Good morning Linnea & Akela. So glad to see you're doing well. Thanks so much for sharing a look at your wonderful nomadic lives traveling and camping and experiencing the adventure, the mountain trails, the streams, all untouched by humans. That being said, be sure you stay safe out there in your travels. 🌻🌼👍 .

Hey from the UK ✌🏼. Just found your channel! We loved this video. Sums up a lot of why we love our van and exploring nature. Thanks for sharing your experience and lessons learned. 🙏

Like this Transit Trail. And like the major things done while leaving layout portions of a build for the buyer to do. It really brings down the price from complete RVs that are based on a van. It’s with-in range for a goal. Like a new motor too. Doing the work to build out a van on it’s last stretch hasn’t appealed to me either. My van dreams are more a vacation “cabin” on wheels, I can head out in to mountain or beach. You really could just thrown in camp items, like a cot, chair, table and go! The camping world needed this middle class option. This van has taken the top spot on my dream list. So glad Ford has done this. Also catching a fish like you have in the video would be so awesome. 🐟 🐟 🐟

Great to see another one of your videos, Ireland🙂

Ford Transit Trail is freaking cool.

I have been trying to find information on the new Ford Trail great video. Also, I really enjoy your videos and I have so much respect for you and the courage you have show time and time again.

I hope you got to get that new van. I hate they didn't do this 60 years ago. I'm glad you are getting to enjoy God's beautiful country. Be safe

:) Well DONE! Looks like a great Van, and all the BEST to you and Akela:) Happy New YEar and Cheers! :)

I was so into this.. then you ended. I said well, that was short and sweet... Lol.. love your videos... See you next week

Good morning to you fr.Philippines always keep safe on your adventure

Thx sharing very informative on building out diy or little help / nice !

Great review! AND great that you are one happy nomad!

Great video. As for finding a FORD TRANSIT TRAIL for sale, which is supposedly available since 2023, I wish you good luck with that. I've called @FORD dealers, even called FORD directly, and they do everything to skirt the questions, even pretending not to know what the FORD Transit TRAIL is. Maybe one day they will be available in dealerships, for now, FORD is silent.

Great info thank you

Thanks so much. I've been wondering a out the transit . You answered a .ot of my questions

Make sure you research safety/maintenance recalls, and how much maintenance will cost, and what kind of maintenance needs to be done. I know it's not your first rodeo, but we all get excited at times, and forget to do important things.

Chris is a very lucky guy to have you. Love your doggy.

That looks like a great van. Awesome job on the video production!

Linnea I enjoyed your video thank you and good Luck.

Very cool!

Awesome video 🌲🐾🐾🍁

Hi Linnea, very cool and interesting vlog, there are so many things to consider when building a van i had no idea but this vlog was very helpful, ps i love your channel.

Ford should gift you a ford transit!! For real!

What's wrong with running toward nature and the back country? Ultimately, that's what you're running to, it's not just one destination.

I heard about your channel from your brother who lives 2 doors down from me in the keys. He also let me see the inside of his trailer and it is amazing!! I hope to start my van build in a week or 2.

“You’re going to do it regardless of the type of van you’re in” aha felt. Hate getting stuck but hey it’s part of the journey

What a great van! They have thought of everything. Thanks for sharing. PS, I am going to learn fly-fishing in the spring/summer

Fantastic Linnea 🎉

I’m guessing you love the van so much because it is your home. You built it and paid for it, just like anyone constructing a home of any type! Happy Trails!

hello!!! WOW!!! awesome van congratulations. enjoy. may you continue for ever may your adventures continue with peace joy and understanding. present moment wonderfull moment. Asta Luego.........

Wow, that was an amazing and inclusive design option for an adventure vehicle. I am impressed that Ford actually was forward thinking to welcome and see the value in an outdoorsy inclined market. Maybe it could in the future be Togo 2.0...just saying. I am planning to build out a ford van or 21ft short bus (still undecided) in 2024 as a transitional retirement home. I have a simple bucket list to see North America from coast to coast without rushing. So I too believe not everyone is running away or heading to but instead they are just living their best life on wheels.

Very nice option.

Totally enticing!

I really hope they give you a free van so we can get ourselves a whole new build series. Would love to see what Togo 2.0 looks like!

So cool!!!

Enjoy the journey on where you're headed.

Great info

SUPER STUFF.

Thank you

Well done my friend

omg. at 2:11 on this vid you're bending over a firepit that looks a lot like one that I found and stayed over night about 30 minutes out of central Yellowstone. At the bottom of the hill there was a tiny stream merging with a larger river. There was just enough time to clean up in the river before walking the dog, setting up the trail cam and getting in the car for the night. That evening something swatted rocks at the car. In the morning when I looked at the camera pics there were cougar scowling at my body bent over trying to clear the camera view of weeds both before night fell and in the morning when I collected the camera. They'd been there the whole time. Chilling.

Looks like they boxed it out like the PRomaster! Great idea. Not this awkward tall and skinny kid anymore:) (like me).

I heard ray say the eco boost is Standard. @ approx 5.15 in the video. I was charged $1775 for the engine. I seen/ read on may other advertisements it is standard. Ordered it in March it is currently in production hoping to receive it within 3 to 4 weeks.

This van is an exciting option. I've been looking forward to your review of it. I am not clear on what the interior of the van is like prior to aftermarket outfitting that can be arranged. I have had a hard time picturing it from the Ford website as well. Is there any insulation that comes with the van? Is there any kind of framing for a bed or cabinetry or is it completely empty? I am also wondering what options Ford offers with the van, such as what add-on are there and what all comes with the base model, inside and out. I haven't found this in Ford's information online about the van yet. Maybe you can offer a link where this kind of detail may be available. Thank you

I'm getting my vehicle from Vandoit. I want something ready to go.

🥰🥰🥰🥰❤❤❤❤❤❤ from France

Hi Linnea and Akela ! We would love a ford transit trail !! They are advertising them all over the place but try to even order one ??? I was waiting for you to say , ‘ And just say my name at the dealership and receive a 10% discount !’ 😆 😂 Anyway , if you know how to order one or have any info please let us know 😊 !! It is so beautiful how much you love nature . It truly is your home .

Finally!!!! 😂

Did Ford reach out to you or did you reach out to them. Also you wanna consider buying I've heard so many horror stories about Dodge Promasters not to get 1 myself. But you've replaced your trans and engine now so you should be fine.

Thank you for the detailed video… Question, I've seen a handful of videos about the new Ford Transit trail but I haven't seen any that address seating for more than two people. I'm wondering if anybody knows what the options are for seating three to four passengers?

Scared what the MSRP will be for the van. I certainly checks all the boxes, but I suspect it'll top off at 60 - 70K dollars. That said, it is pretty kick-a$$.

I hear the Transit Trail is coming out this spring. If that is true, I will hold off on buying a van to do a buildout.

This is truly a nice rig. I don't know what the price will be. But as with all rigs like this I'm sure there is no way I'll ever be able to afford one. And I'm betting most people can't either. It would be nice if someone would build an affordable camper van. Oh how I miss the days of my old VW camper bus.

Fix or Repair Daily

I really enjoy all your videos and I am sometimes jealous of your youth. I am hoping that you might clarify one of your statements, when you mention going into the Wilderness, that can only be done on foot. According to the Wilderness Act motorized vehicles of any kind are not permitted to travel into the Wilderness. I am hoping that when you mention accessing the Wilderness it is only to get to the closest possible destination/trailhead/campsite before entering the Wilderness. I am 71 years old and my only means to get into the Wilderness is on my mule and usually while out there I am volunteering with the Forest Service to do trail work keeping trails open for all to access and enjoy. Ford is the best, grew up with Fords and thats all I drive.

I think it’s great meeting I think we might’ve met in Texas. I love your vans name. How do you how do you keep cool in the summer with the dog? I’m getting a dog this weekend

Well I would definitely like one 10:47 😅

Cool

Ford should sponsor you!!!

Gruß aus Brandenburg 🇩🇪 Bei uns 10 grd +! Bleibt gesund ☘️ Und genießt Euer leben 👍

yay

My take, fellow upfitters, the TRAIL is not a Sprinter killer or promaster KILLER, Not yet , -Ford did not seek the advice of hard core Upfitters: 1-Not structural redesign involved 2-Marketing cosmetic lipstick...only We need, some as options: 1-better suspension oem, like liquid springs in the back for many needs and desires such as , better departure angle when needed on demand etc. 2-AC ducted to the back running from the engine(not a one ton mini split), same with floor heating system, get the most of that powerfull engine; Or a total redesign of HVAC system optimized for Upfitters.. 2-side flares fittings ready to install after market flares. 3-the current interior structure is optimized for cargo missions. Hence, redesign interior structure (at least 10 different types and options for upfitters) to optimize installation ...total redesign of interior cealing structure for drop down accesories such as Showers, drapes, kitchens, tables, storage, beds etc. Redesign the floor interior and exterior for things like, oem shower trays, water tanks(plural) that could fit in every unusable hidden space. 4-allow computer module hacking to make the AWD more off-road capable such as sustainable slip diff. etc 5-detachable or option not to order the obsolete, backdoors (cargo doors not design for upfitters). Redesign the back to install our own after market design, just imagine....Jesus, ala MadMax style designs back there. 5-exterior oem detachable access pannels on the side for access to all, all utilities(a must have for upfitters). The engine has an access panel, i think it is called a hood. 6-Option of hybrid pronto, to kill range anxiety and to reach 35 MPG. 7-make the Transit trail lighter by 750 kilos, carbon etc. -Solar prep... -Ausi style external preps such as kitchen, refrigerator, w/d, air compressor, brush guards, rhino bumpers, whinch[prep],...again Ausi style... -double sliding doors 8- 100 different options, too bad Upfitters were not consulted.... -Ford, if i may suggest, make a van design for Upfitters...to have a true canvas to work on. All these for a price of 39k msrp direct, then u will have a true Sprinter and Promaster Killer. My humble comment

👍✌️

Maybe Togo needs a sibling!? Van build 2.0!

☺️💕

We have a 2 yr old toddler, so we need a 3rd seat with seat belt. Is this an option with the Transit Trail?

🌼👌🌼

Ducato/Relay/Boxer/Promaster is still a better choice. Why? It's "boxy" - easier to build and customise, which is huge when you think how much skill and work is required for Transit's curves. It's wide, so most people can sleep across, which means that Promaster saves a lot of unnecessary overall length, wheelbase and weight, which translates to better off-highway capability and manoeuvrability. Plus Promaster is front-wheel-drive which has it's own advantages and better control with a set of BFG KO2 tyres. As long as one keeps the build relatively light, Promaster (especially the 118 inch version) is not at all bad for the money. I understand that Linea is being paid for this video, which is ok. For the price of new Ford Transit Trail, one can get a Promaster 118 and turn it into into a proper overlander - with professionally done 4x4 or 2x4 conversion, huge BFG tyres, suspension lift mods, and a very well done interior build using very lightweight materials, and still be left with a decent amount of money to spare; and there'd be no comparison between the two vehicles.

How the heck are you supposed to get your hands on one? It's 2023 and can't seem to find any actual for sale.

FORD Rules

can we get a hybrid battery system that is tied to the hvac....so that the hvac can run off the hybrid battery and the engine will cycle on and off each hour to recharge the hybrid battery

Have you ever ventured to Oregon for some fly fishing?

I think these vans are going to be a game changer. Not trying to make anyone feel bad but the dodge promaster has alot of issues. Expensive known issue.

Love the van but that steering wheel is a nightmare. Have a 22 model as a shop van and any extended driving the steering wheel cause arm fatigue.

So when do you start building out your new van?

🤗🌺🌅🙏🌎

Ok, this is all well and fine but… Do you still have to go to the dealer to check the oil? Are you able to do on the road maintenance without the dealer? As we all know, dealers have a bad rap for a reason, and most service times run for days if not weeks and may cost thousands. Can you avoid this with this new purpose built van? If so, they have a potential customer in me, if not, I will lift and convert my E350 myself in order to have that freedom. Cheers! Bryan from Vancouver

I don't like the forced windows in the back and on the side door. Tried to order it without the windows. The dealer said that's not possible. That was a deal-breaker for me.

4 wheel drive & AWD just enables you to get stuck worse 😀

I think I don't disagree with the sentiment of the saying - what I disagree with is the insinuation that running away from something or running towards something is a bad thing to do. It isn't - in life we are all of us always moving away from our past and towards our future, nothing is static, the only thing we have any means of controlling is the route we take on that journey, and the stops we make along the way.

Not gonna pay ford $3000 just to cut a hole for ceiling fan. That’s crazy!

Solar???

You toub is doing something with the number Be careful I subscribed last week and liked alot of videos but had to sub again

either way, water proof those couplers up on your roof...

I've never saw more zen person than this girl..... that what's up🙏

So is this your new ride in 2023?

Price range?