In 2025 (hopefully), I’m taking my lifestyle to the next level with a fully transformed van. This isn’t just about traveling—it’s about creating a mobile home that reflects my values of minimalism, simplicity, and efficiency. The van will be my sanctuary, where I can live, work, and train without feeling tied down. It’s designed for both comfort and functionality, perfect for embracing the freedom of the open road while staying grounded in my daily routines.
The vision for Casa Da Doné Hieltjes:
- Minimalistic & Simple Aesthetic
- Clean, clutter-free design with no unnecessary items.
- Every item in the van will have a purpose—no excess, just essentials.
- Stealthy Exterior with Practical Features
- Custom Roofrack with solar panels for energy independence.
- Large Sky Window to bring in natural light.
- Two Airmax Vent Fans for efficient ventilation and airflow.
- A sliding door separating the front and back of the van for privacy.
- Storage & Organization
- A closet sized to fit everything I own (all fitting into my carry-on suitcase and weekend bag)—no extra storage, only what’s truly necessary.
- The van will be organized to maximize efficiency, ensuring a streamlined and clutter-free environment.
- Minimal Kitchen Setup
- Simple and functional kitchen with only the essentials: two bowls, two plates, two mugs, etc.
- Microwave for oatmeal and basic meals—no extra gadgets, just what I use regularly.
- Everything will be centered around daily usability and the essentials I need to function well on the go.
- Flexible Bed & Seating Configuration
- A fixed bed with garage storage underneath.
- 3/4 of the bed will be fixed, with 1/4 convertible into a back seat of an L-shaped sofa, which will serve as both seating and lounging space.
- This will ensure comfort for both sleeping and relaxing during the day.
- Active Lifestyle
- A mini bicycle to get from point A to point B quickly—compact and practical, without taking up unnecessary space in the van.
- The van will accommodate my active lifestyle, keeping me mobile and fit, even while living in it.
- Dedicated Garage Space
- The garage will include designated spots for:
- Grey water tank
- Fresh water tank
- Electronics (with easy access and organization).
- The remaining space will be used for other essential items I need to store for convenience and easy access.
- The garage will include designated spots for:
- Year-Round Living
- The van will be fully insulated, designed to handle winter living with functionality in colder months. No water tanks will be placed under the van to prevent freezing issues.
- I’ll have access to hot showers either inside the van or at nearby local gyms for a clean, comfortable living experience.
- Everything will be planned so I don’t need to worry about frozen items or any discomfort, even during the colder months.
Van Life as Part of the Bigger Picture
My van isn’t just a vehicle—it’s the next step in my journey of growth, freedom, and self-sufficiency. This minimalist setup will perfectly align with my broader vision for 2025, a year dedicated to simplifying life, pursuing new challenges, and living intentionally.
The van will be my mobile base for both personal and professional pursuits. Whether it’s filming YouTube videos for my 1,000-video challenge, reading the books I’ve set for the year, or embracing the freedom to travel and live freely, the van will become my home on the go.
In 2025, I will hopefully embrace Van Life as my mobile, minimalist haven, ensuring that each day is about moving forward, learning, and growing—both personally and professionally. The van will provide the freedom to pursue my mission, stay focused on my growth, and explore the world while living intentionally.
2024 Doné Hieltjes: Let’s set the stage now for 2025 to make it happen!