This video popped up at the right time for me. Rent is ridiculous! I'm almost done paying off my car, a hatchback, and I kept thinking I'd have to buy a bigger one to be able to live the nomad life with my dog. This has given me so much hope!
I've been thinking of giving up the home lifestyle and living out my SUV. Recently built a camping conversion in the back and posted a video showing how to do it.
I live in a Toyota RAV 4 Hyrbid during the workweek and a condo outside of commuting range on the weekend. The RAV 4 is alittle bigger than the Prius so I don't need the tent I can leave one of the backseats unfolded. Its still stealthy enough that I can spend the night on residential streets. It doesn't get as good of gas milage as the Prius but it still gets 35-40 mpg. I have the advantage of running the A/C and heater off the hybrid battery for hours at a time. Running heater isn't as efficient as using the AC but it still only burns 2/3 a gallon $3 of gas if leave it on all night at 65 degrees lowest fan setting. I do have a seperate 200 amp hour battery for my refrigerator and microwave I don't want to have to run the car 24/7 and the Microwave has a little to high a power draw for the hybrid battery. I can't cook in the car because I'm in the city and need to maintain stealth so I make a big meal or two at my condo on the weekend and use the microwave to reheat leftovers and warm up coffee. I recharge my battery from a wall outlet over the weekend and the 200 amp hours does last 2 weeks. It is alittle hard to go to the bathroom but I mostly use the work and gym bathroom so its not too much of a problem. I hate the HOA and am going to sell the condo as soon as I can make alittle bit of a profit, I haven't decided whether I'm going to get a small house in the sticks or rent a room in the city it will depend on cost.
Thank you, Bob, for showing this! I recently made the mistake of sharing with a colleague that I'd like to live like that and she negated all the possibilities and advantages. It is so doable for people with an open mind. All our lives we buy stuff we don't need and give our money to the landlord or the bank. I'm fed up. I want the little freedom that is possible as shown in this video.
I'm 6'3" and i sleep in the back of my 2015 prius with my wife. the habitents is nice but i highly suggest checking out the napier sports tent 8200. it's a tent that you can attach to your vehicle very similar to the habitent but it is the size of a full tent basically adding a full room to your prius.
i unfortunately don't have any pictures of our setup but what we did was use the napier tent as like the hang out/ storage area this proved very useful as we were then able to fit a queen size air mattress in the back of the car to sleep in. it was very comfortable. then when the next day comes you are able to detach your tent from your car take out the air mattress and drive around site seeing with the full use of the back seat and trunk. because we were able to use our back seat like this we were able to bring a friend along. having the napier tent kinda turns the prius into a mini rv
@@thecensae A queen size mattress?! I was an RN. An undertaker came one day to a hospital I was working at, transported the dead via a Prius. The deceased was about your height, & I said no way could he fit the man back there. I was pissed that they let this guy take him. The guy was tall & thin, but a queen size mattress? :/
After spending 4 weeks in japan in capsule hotels It definitely shed some light on how comfortable you can be in a tiny space. To be honest. as long as you can sit up comfortably and lay down and rest.it's a perfectly fine shelter/home. Best wishes to the owner with this setup. I hope that life will cool down for her. It's nice to know that she is among new friends. :) I am actually going to make a similar setup with my Toyota Yaris this summer for leisure, which is a tiny vehicle in comparison. Me, and my partner and I are going on a hiking trip across Sweden and will be transforming the car every night (1-2 minute transformation) which will result in a 120x180cm (3'93x5'9) bed. we will only have our backpacks, with a tiny spirits stove. clothes and some food storage with canned and dried goods. Toilet situation will be handled at public places or in the woods. we will bring a bag shower. that can be heated on the dashboard and hanged from a branch or similar. I have bought a 33 000 mAh 5V battery bank (30$) that can connect 3 devices at a time. It's gonna be charged while driving, and then powering 5V lights, a fan, two phones and tablet. I doesn't have to be particularly advanced to be enjoyable. :)
Before I saw this video with the Prius and the Habitent, I thought no way anyone but a very small, in stature, person could ever live in a Prius. But once again Mr. Bob Wells you have enlightened me. I am amazed of all the storage-incredible and to be able to have 9 weeks of supplies/food, that's incredible. Bob, I must say, watching your videos is like taking a Ph.D level course in Minimalist Nomad living with you as my own personal mentor/advisor. You Sir never disappoint.
You have to love it. When you hit 300K, save up, because you might have to buy a $2K battery. And during that whole time, you've never had a brake job and have just done oil changes and filter changes.
@@garychristison5773 my last car, a dodge dart needed so much maintenance before i even hit 80k. Absolutely horrible experience. Btw, there are people that come and replace your battery for you for around $1500 installed and warrantied!!!
That tent is brilliant. Wish her well and safety on her travels. Thank you Bob for giving us all hope and the perspective that “living” doesn’t always mean 4 walls.
You have given me new hope by expanding the possibilities of travel and camping on a very tight budget. Money is always an object, so it’s truly comforting to know that if any of my other ideas/dreams fall through, or I just need to get away without depleting my savings, I could actually do this! Thank you for sharing this with us! You do such good work for those of us who start to lose hope of ever being able to change our lives for the better.👍🏻🙏🏻
I don't know how you can reconcile the phrases "very tight budget" and "without depleting my savings" with the cost of buying a Prius. Does the initial high cost become inconsequential when you add the very low subsequent living costs to it? Are maintenance costs low for the Prius?
@@Just_A_Glo "very tight budget" and "without depleting my savings" could mean 3 things: 1. didn't even know living in a car full-time was possible,; 2. didn't know about the habitent; 3. didn't know a prius is so inexpensive. I was introduced to the idea of #carlife some time after I found out about people in asia living in pods smaller than the space behind the front seats of a car, which happened some time after I was introduced to the idea of #vanlife, which happened some time after I was introduced to the idea of #tinyhouse. And there are people out there who live in #survivalpods which are made with $100 worth of coroplast, zipties, ducktape, vents and a light. Also, there are people who live in houses made out of mud bricks or cob bricks (legally). And people who live in temporary houses made out of clingwrap, scotch tape, and garbage bags (to not be see-through).
Hi Bob, Pressure Cookers: I have been testing my plan to permenantly hit the road for some time and have developed some useful techniques. Pressure cookers are wonderful travel implements, not the electric kind. Work well on 1 burner camp stoves. The best thing is for health, especially vegetables, because you are not boiling away your vitamins. Also applies to meats, retains more of the amino acids, etc. that we eat meat for. Also great for brazing, frying or stir fries without the lid, of course. I've even made yogurt in mine and even canned pints of fresh vegetables. I particularly like soups and stews. Also, try a steak, first seared it with seasonings and take out, then put in the trivet and add water up to a little below it. Bring liquid to a boil, then add in vegetables and return steak on top. A few minutes at pressure and you got it. Note: I only use stainless steel to cook in, or iron. Never aluminum or plastic. Thanks Bob
@@SDsailor7 I'm on my 3rd prius, and have done quite a bit of car camping in them. The cons (IMHO): 1. Road noise at highway speeds is more pronounced than most passenger cars. I wear headphones for longer trips. 2. Im 6 foot 1, so the length of the standard prius was just barely long enough for me to sleep comfortably behind the front row passenger seat like you see in this video. My current car is a Prius V, which is station wagon sized and has quite a bit more space behind the front seats. 3. There is no rear climate control, so you have to find a way to vent the conditioned air from the front cabin into the back space behind the curtain, although this is relatively easy to do with a few USB fans. 4. The charging of the big battery isn't customizable. Contrary to what Bob says in this video, the gasoline engine actually only kicks on long enough to fill it from about 20% to around 40% before kicking back off again. It would need to kick on and off a lot less if it would actually charge the big battery fully. 5. Whenever the gas engine kicks on and off, it shakes the car a little. Not a huge deal if you have a good mattress and are a relatively deep sleeper. Parking slightly up or down hill and turning on the parking brake helps a little, but not a lot. ~ Hope that helps
Chris Schuck Question for you - I drive a 2017 hybrid CMAX and I find a bit of highway noise, towards the back, more than a usual car. Is this a hallmark of a hybrid?
I have a Prius, 2005 and about 131,000 miles. I just saw this tent addition a few months ago and it was nice to see it from the inside. Good to know about the battery pack. When I bought my Prius 15 years ago, people were saying the replacement was going to be 7,000! 2,000 is a much more viable option. Thanks for another great video!
Also the original 150k life of hybrid has extended to 250k -300 k if you keep your rear seat cooling fan intake vents cleared / cleaned every year ( look on TH-cam for how to do it… the dealership will charge you a fortune). You would not believe how much dirt and carpet fibers/ dog hair was blocking the intake fan. A squirt of WD40 on the fan center connection also helps). Main reason for early hybrid battery failure is overheating due to cooling fan vent clogged!! Cheap insurance…
@@josephdebes3060 How many miles? Excuse my ignorance, what are the rear seat cooling fans? Are they located under the hood or actually on the rear seats? I'm not even sure there are rear seats in this car. I'm tiny & flexible, it looks doable for me. I've always owned small cars, but I've driven SUV's, which are more to maintain. While I'm pounding you with stupid questions, is Bear Spray everyone mentions really for bears?! I've been camping since I was a small child to 15, when my family switched to sailing, I've never heard of or seen a bear! I've been to every state on the Continent, except the far Northeast from NY. Never seen or heard a bear.
@@Dot0011 even for the older, less efficient Priuses, the engine wouldn't consume more than 1 gallon per night with the accessories on. Biggest power draw in a Prius is all of the drivetrain cooling pumps, etc.
That is an amazing set up.... 9 weeks of food + 8 gallons of water...she has it working very well... Congrats to her... Another good video Bob... Thanks!
Hi Bob. I have commented in the past but, I felt I needed to comment again. GOOD JOB! Your videos are so good on so many levels. You open the eyes of the world to options. Whether or not someone leverages these options is no concern to you. Many people have standards that keep them from using these options. So what. At least you opened up the possibilities. Take care, Doug Belen, New Mexico
Hi Doug I have been looking for land near Belen to build an 8ft by 12ft cabin on. I just loved seeing your msg. Whats it like living in Belen New Mexico? Unique
😯Woooow! I'm super impressed! I'm claustrophobic ... but the Habitent solves lots of problems! Genius. I hope whom ever this Prius belongs to has found safety & peace. She's doing good for herself! Brilliantly! 💜🌹💜
If you are in a car, you can use a medical bed pan (off of Amazon) instead of a bucket for a toilet. You can just sit on the car seat with the pan under you instead of a higher bucket. You'd only need like an inch or two of extra head space for the pan.
Excellent synopsis Bob! After 6 years of living in my Prius I must say the Habitent is not necessary. Well made window screens offer far better ventilation and use the interior aerodynamic airflow. A big reason to live in a Prius is the stealth factor. A Habitent kills this. You can sit up in your car seat. No fun packing away a rain soaked Habitent in the morning. Thanks again for all that you do for us Bob!
Prius Dave do you have a blog? you have no content on TH-cam so just got intrigued by your TH-cam photo seems you have your Prius set up exactly your way :)
@great owl Everyone has different requirements & different tastes as a woman the idea I'm in my car & can get away quickly if needed is reassuring as is the ease of putting this up & not having to lug everything in & out of the car.
@@wwaxwork good point. I'd plan to bring a quick pitch tent that I can throw up beside the car with the toilet bucket. If I ever had to abandon it it would cost little to replace and be available everywhere.
Enjoyed the Video: Traveling Nurse here, currently in Venice, FL. I bought a 2014 Peterbilt Class 8 Auto for 17k with the intentions of using it to tow an RV, but I'm on my 4th contract this year and still have not bought an RV and I've been living out of it full time while doing my travel assignments, so far all the hospitals have let me park in the back of the employee parking with no issues and because my truck came with an APU, I've been very comfortable in the sleeper cab when I need it. The manual says it only burns 0.10gals/hr of diesel, so it's actually very affordable to run, way way cheaper than paying for an apartment or house rental. I can cook in the cab with my sous vide, cooker, or microwave, but I typically just walk up to the cafeteria at the hospital for meals and typically shower after my shift in one of the hospital locker rooms after getting permission, otherwise, I shower at the gym when I go there. I added solar panels to the back after I removed the commercial 5th wheel hitch to convert the semi to motorhome for charging the batteries. The savings of just staying in the truck these last 4 contracts has already paid for the price i paid for the truck, i plan to purchase an RV in the future, just be undecided on which one i want.
Do you have link to a Peterbilt Class 8 Auto. Google just shows semis which pretty much every large parking lot these days says no semis so I'm guessing you are in something smaller?
@@msnpassjan2004 I think that you will find when you check into it that a class 8 truck is a full size highway tractor capable of pulling a full size semi trailer at highway speed...
I would use a Napier or generic tent that connects to the open hatch. it adds an actual room to the car, a real game changer! I have this solution with my 2015 Prius camper for 7 years,
I own a 2016, 76,000 miles Prius. If I only got 50 mpg, I would look for what is wrong; my car gets 60-70 TRUE miles per gallon. Like all other estimates, I have learned how to get this mileage, but it can be done.
They're idling for long periods of time while sleeping, which cuts the mileage quite a bit. I use a prius for work, and mine is virtually never turned off while working, so it drops the mileage to around 55.
Four years ago I bought a very used, obviously in an accident, 2007 Prius. The battery pack is a bit old and not perfect but I've never really had a problem. It's got over 280k miles and it just goes. Great cars.
I'm getting a prius c two hatchback this week. Found a 2016 with 50,000 miles for $12,500. I figured I could do Uber and live in there and save up for a year and a half while i finish my bachelor's degree. Living in one of these is no big deal considering I enjoyed living in a little one person tent for 8 months before.
We have had a Habitent for 3+ years and it has truly has been a GAME CHANGER ! Thank you to the awesome couple to invented it, we are so grateful for the many adventures that this has made possible for us !
Wow! I would have NEVER thought of getting a Prius, and wondered how anyone could. The amazing fuel is a plus. I love the little tent attachment. The engine and gas mileage is great. Thank you Bob for this very good option.
@@SDsailor7 I have Prius. Its not a jack rabbit start but I do not consider it work to get up to speed. Nor do I consider it hard on the car. Just normal operation. That being said my daughter let me drive her car last week and it felt like lead foot louey. I guess it is not a sports car. But I love it. 3 years and many long trips with a used 2007 and I have not had one repair. Gas mileage is so nice! I used to budget for gas each month. I dont anymore. Its such a small expense.
@Douglas But what model are you talking about? There are several? Maybe i was reading about the one that does not have the power like yours. I am thinking of buying the V model i like the styling and the cargo capacity even though it does not get as good gas mileage as the other models but it does get waaay better than my tacoma prerunner! I have also owned the toyota 96 sedan i forget the model. I like toyota very reliable. Cheers
Rob Hernandez Our company vehicles are Prius and yes, excelleration is difficult - you feel like a hampster spinning and wheel isn’t moving. Very ecconomical on gas though.
Ive lived in my old Hyundai Sonata ‘05 and buying a Prius was the result of watching the myriad of videos like this. Thank you for spreading the good word of cheap living for travel, or if you meet more dire circumstances.
It's a simple and useful add to make camping more comfy. My only hesitation, as always, is my safety. As a single female with no travel companion, I think about those things, like someone, or an animal, could easily slice through a tent.
Amazing how much storage underneath it has. It is a Pretty cool concept for those that own this type of car. That tent opens up alot more options. Thanks Bob ~ 🙋♀️
I had a similar tent, called a gazebo, that fit off my Honda element. It was so helpful for extra space. Mine could hang low off the back end that allowed for changing, showering and potting.
Holy Moly! I live in my 30-ft travel trailer I have a pickup truck to pull the trailer and I have a 2005 Prius. I already have most of the Prius figured out for little trips away from the mothership but this tent this Habitent just puts a whole new chapter in my little mind. Thanks Bob!❤️✔️✌️🖐️👍No affiliate link Bob on the Habitent!🙂
But the Napier tent Is so much more expensive and looking at how long it took 2 people to set it up ( TH-cam video) with fiberglass poles and large panels, you might as well get a dome tent. The advantage of Napier is you could fit 3-4 people and the Habitent is really for 1-2 people with quick set up and take downs. Guess it all come down to how much space you need verses ease of use. Wonderful option though.
Were someone to fit the complete Prius power, generating and battery pack into a van they would have the most economic, reliable and versatile vehicle! Your demonstration of the Habitent was really good, you covered the most obvious aspect of a Prius liveaboard, that of using the toilet. Which worked well! That you were able to stand was really amazing, so getting strip-washed and dressed isn't an issue either. For $99 this tent is excellent value and it really expands the usability of the Prius like nothing else does.
If my '05 is still going strong in a few more years I may or may not transplant the parts into an oldish lightweight wagon; Toyota used to make a Prius wagon but it has 130hp instead of my 110hp. I'd be concerned about the weight of an actual van unless you can get bigger and badder hybrid axles and come to think of it you probably could especially as hybrids become even more popular... Hmm.
@@mugustabjeonklei2613 Thinking about this from a slightly different perspective for a moment, it occurred to me that if one were to alter the bodywork of an existing Prius, it could be re-fabricated into a light van configuration using flat, lightweight composite body and roof panels! That way, a metal frame would ensure srtuctural rigidity (to replace the original bodywork-doors-boot-roof) and form the base to mount the panels to, or, a smaller metal frame to ensure rigidity and a composite panel body attach directly to that frame. Lengthening a car is very simple, however, the batteries location might make that more complicated. There's quite a growing band of companies offering non-factory options for Prius and Tesla's, and a guy on YT strips, re-engineers and reconfigures Tesla's so the knowledge base and expertise for adapting electric and hybrid vehicles is growing. Were someone to buy a used Prius and reconfigure it into a lightweight van, there would be phenomenal interest in the project. I imagine it to look like a mini step van, with flat panel bodywork wherever possible! Someone with more computer/online/YT experience than I could set up the Prius Camper Challenge and invite people to reconfigure the bodywork to build a lightweight, composite paneled Prius Camper, possibly crowd fund a prize to encourage builders! Like I said, tis' just a thought!
Fantastic - I am so impressed. The Habitent is a game-changer. It goes to show that is possible to be comfortable and have all the essentials in in a very small space, and have the luxury of freedom to travel
I am facing a week between a rental and a housesit, so I'm thinking my CRV tented up could be a simple camping solution. Thanks for sharing your set-up, stranger.
That's such a great idea for spring through fall. You have a week in between homes? Rather than spending $700 or more on an airbnb or budget hotel, invest in an elegant $350 napier hatchback tent and have plenty left over for a high end campsite for a week.
I hooked up 2000 watt inverter to 12 volt battery and for emergencies I can run my house necessity like a refrigerator washing machine and LED lights Or if I have to go to remote locations I always have 120-volt 2000 Watts power available with me. If you ever decide to hook up inverter make sure you use proper size wiring otherwise it might burn things down. Follow the factory instructions or figure out ohms law what is a Supply and what is consumption in and out.
I have an 07 Prius. I've owned every type vehicle you can think of just about & like the Prius best of all. They are absolutely amazing! You don't know until you have one. Yes the space is incredible!
As a prius camper, I would never sleep without closing all the doors. We live in a crazy world. I would not feel safe. Other than that, prius life is good.
Hope for Christ Was that ever mentioned..... I think the point was the habitent and the room I don’t think he was implying Sleeping with the doors open ..?
Isn't the point of the habitent to sleep with the hatchback door open? If so then you definitely only want to do that someplace safe with other campers... Preferably not near a city like their doing in this video
Hey guys,my prius is 17 years old,still like new,still on original batteries,never any issues.i get it serviced every 10000km at my main toyota dealer . it's so good I bought another new one in 2017,and it's magnificent.
It's interesting that somebody decided to make a "tent" product like that one. In the 60s, they made a truck camper that slid into the back of a stationwagon...it's Google-able.
My wife bought a 2012 Prius C new and has put nearly 200 000 km/ 125 000 miles on the clock, with no major expense as of early 2021. Congratulations to Habitent. It does not say stealth to me but does allow convenience. Still, as you point out, the owner could sleep in there with the back down, so maintains the option not to use it. I love your presentations. Even without the interesting interview, a powerful story sits between the lines that will resonate with some.
now thats another great video bob and also one of your more extensive illustrations of using the bucket facilities in the ever efficient prius. love it!
Hi Bob just want to mention I own a 10 year old prius and have about 182,000 miles on it. About 3 weeks ago when I was in FL, 3 check lights came on, basically the brake regeneration system broke, they had to replace the wheel sensor and the regenerative master controller, basically $4,500 (20 hours of labor) - was quite shocked - I assume a normal car wouldn't have this. I have slept in my prius, moving passenger seat fully forward and have the gap filled with cooler and bag, and I'm 6' 1" 270lbs and I slept very well in it. I must admit washing my 'bits' in the morning was a challenge. Keep up the good work
Bob, I just want you to know that the work you do and how you do it is just awesome!! I live in Africa and I'm a keen camper. I have learned so much from you for which I am TRULY grateful. Thanks a million!! You open one's eyes to possibilities one would rarely think about. May you be blessed handsomely and safe travels ahead.❤
Based on some research, you can draw up to about 1300 watts max safely based on the second gen prius hybrid system. Always use a pure sine inverter as it will make you appliances run cooler.
Thanks Bob, yet another great video showing off the great options available nowadays. And as usual, presented in a very professional manner. Videos produced with excellence that make things as clear as possible. Kudos to you and your team!
437k on my 2005 Prius. Still original battery! Runs excellent! There's a guy local guy who services these batteries. If I had to replace $600, maintenance $250. So that's where your at on the batteries. I have a 2009 as well. I love this car.
Prius uses a heat pump, it will heat the car like it cools it. So in temps above 35 it runs like the ac and engine just comes on to charge batteries like on ac. At colder temps the engine will also provide heat.
Thank you for posting this! Not sure how I missed it as I search out every video regarding living in a Prius , because that’s what is going to me my home soon. I’ve had the same 2004 Prius since I bought it at an auction in 2006 for $5500. It was in perfect condition, but no one really seemed to want it because a hybrid vehicle was a relatively new idea and didn’t trust them. Other than general maintenance, oil change, tires, wipers, the only thing I’ve ever had to replace on it was the front right bearing twice. I can’t say that about any other vehicle with 230,000 miles on it. I’m thinking it’s time to get a habitent! Thank you for your fine video!
I traveled for 4 months in mine and I love it. The main thing is reliability. When I owned an RV something was ALWAYS breaking. With the Prius after 6 years, all I have ever spent is on maintenance. Also, easy to get an appointment for service should anything go wrong. No more paying for 2 insurances, 2 registrations, excessive toll fees or parking fees. Car washes are everywhere and not too expensive, plus a smaller area to clean. I use 2 1/2 gal. bleach bottles ( with a funnel) for #1 and a Turbo Toilet for #2. No more hunting for a dump station. I wish it had more clearance, but I have gotten into plenty of BLM lands and National forests that the bigger rigs could not go. Absolutely love my Prius camper!
Bob - really nice job on demonstrating the viability of living out of the Prius. The sacrifices you make! I think you deserve a new pair of socks. Also, closing the side vent panels before standing up (w/pants down) is imperative!
I turned my chevy sonic into a camper! not a hatchback and not a prius (one day!!) but it does enough for me right now. love how nimble it is, and EXTREMELY stealthy
Hi Bob! The individual cell modules of the hybrid battery can be changed. My son had 3 modules changed on our 2014 Prius two years ago for less than $500. There are (I think) 28 modules in the hybrid battery. The entire hybrid battery hardly ever goes completely bad. Thank you for always very informative videos!
I love my Prius! The ability to leave it on with the climate control running is what really sold me. You have to remember to engage the parking brake so that the engine starting doesn't jostle the car, and earplugs help with the engine noise, but otherwise, it's great! The stealth is awesome.
Jonathan Baldwin , just wondering.... in my Nissan Rogue hybrid when the engine is turned on , the “ running lights” are on automatically.... in order to not have them come on, you engage the parking brake before turning on the engine. Makes it truly stealth. Does the Prius have this problem/ feature? Thanks
With the Prius you have the option of Turing off the running lights(at least with my 2013 Prius C -4…control on light handle). The parking brake does help with the small jolt forward when the engine kicks on to charge the accessory battery to run the A/C all night. Just remember you have to run the engine, not just accessories mode, or the A/C will self shut off after about 3-4 hours. Not sure that all hybrids work the same way. You can also add a 1000 watt electric inverter off the accessories battery in your trunk and your Prius will run a small microwave or a camping cooler. One Prius owner with an inverter was able to run major appliances in his house during super storm sandy and the Prius gas lasted 1 week, while his neighbors had to find gas every 1-2 days. Google “Prius runs home during Sandy storm”. The Prius is truly a computer on wheels
The tailveil worked really well with my Prius. It makes a full room on the back of the Prius and has a rain cover which gives you complete privacy with a door & windows you can unzip for ventilation & room for a small table, chair etc. Also with the Prius running the heater kept me warm in the tailveil as well. Beachcricket made a video of me with mine.
You don't have to replace the whole battery pack... you can replace the individual cells. You could have the battery, re-conditioned. The batteries last on average 12 to 15 years.
The new hybrid Toyota Sienna seems like the ultimate vanlife vehicle if you could afford one. Tons of room, sliding door, all the benefits of a mobile generator, plus 35 mpg with AWD!
Thank you to the lady for letting us see her arrangement. May she be healthy and safe! And thank you, Bob, as ever, for a brilliant, simple video.
@@listenup9322 a
salute to the lady we aren't supposed to care what people think however trust me I get it & also a Prius owner
This video popped up at the right time for me. Rent is ridiculous! I'm almost done paying off my car, a hatchback, and I kept thinking I'd have to buy a bigger one to be able to live the nomad life with my dog. This has given me so much hope!
I've been thinking of giving up the home lifestyle and living out my SUV. Recently built a camping conversion in the back and posted a video showing how to do it.
Same here. I'd need a van to live my life with my job.
I live in a Toyota RAV 4 Hyrbid during the workweek and a condo outside of commuting range on the weekend. The RAV 4 is alittle bigger than the Prius so I don't need the tent I can leave one of the backseats unfolded. Its still stealthy enough that I can spend the night on residential streets. It doesn't get as good of gas milage as the Prius but it still gets 35-40 mpg. I have the advantage of running the A/C and heater off the hybrid battery for hours at a time. Running heater isn't as efficient as using the AC but it still only burns 2/3 a gallon $3 of gas if leave it on all night at 65 degrees lowest fan setting. I do have a seperate 200 amp hour battery for my refrigerator and microwave I don't want to have to run the car 24/7 and the Microwave has a little to high a power draw for the hybrid battery. I can't cook in the car because I'm in the city and need to maintain stealth so I make a big meal or two at my condo on the weekend and use the microwave to reheat leftovers and warm up coffee. I recharge my battery from a wall outlet over the weekend and the 200 amp hours does last 2 weeks. It is alittle hard to go to the bathroom but I mostly use the work and gym bathroom so its not too much of a problem. I hate the HOA and am going to sell the condo as soon as I can make alittle bit of a profit, I haven't decided whether I'm going to get a small house in the sticks or rent a room in the city it will depend on cost.
You mean " This video POOPED up at the right time .....hehe !!!
I'm glad the owner of this Prius has such a good setup for herself; best wishes to her, as it sounds like she's been through some tough times.
The economy and living on social security this how it is
If your disabled and divorced this is how some have to make ends meet. Praying 🙏she's safe.
Thank you, Bob, for showing this! I recently made the mistake of sharing with a colleague that I'd like to live like that and she negated all the possibilities and advantages. It is so doable for people with an open mind. All our lives we buy stuff we don't need and give our money to the landlord or the bank. I'm fed up. I want the little freedom that is possible as shown in this video.
I'm 6'3" and i sleep in the back of my 2015 prius with my wife. the habitents is nice but i highly suggest checking out the napier sports tent 8200. it's a tent that you can attach to your vehicle very similar to the habitent but it is the size of a full tent basically adding a full room to your prius.
Bruce, any photos or tips for sleeping 2 in the prius?
i unfortunately don't have any pictures of our setup but what we did was use the napier tent as like the hang out/ storage area this proved very useful as we were then able to fit a queen size air mattress in the back of the car to sleep in. it was very comfortable. then when the next day comes you are able to detach your tent from your car take out the air mattress and drive around site seeing with the full use of the back seat and trunk. because we were able to use our back seat like this we were able to bring a friend along. having the napier tent kinda turns the prius into a mini rv
@@thecensae A queen size mattress?! I was an RN. An undertaker came one day to a hospital I was working at, transported the dead via a Prius. The deceased was about your height, & I said no way could he fit the man back there. I was pissed that they let this guy take him. The guy was tall & thin, but a queen size mattress? :/
Theresa M 6
Yup a queen sized air mattress fits in the back of the Prius with no issues
After spending 4 weeks in japan in capsule hotels It definitely shed some light on how comfortable you can be in a tiny space. To be honest. as long as you can sit up comfortably and lay down and rest.it's a perfectly fine shelter/home. Best wishes to the owner with this setup. I hope that life will cool down for her. It's nice to know that she is among new friends. :)
I am actually going to make a similar setup with my Toyota Yaris this summer for leisure, which is a tiny vehicle in comparison. Me, and my partner and I are going on a hiking trip across Sweden and will be transforming the car every night (1-2 minute transformation) which will result in a 120x180cm (3'93x5'9) bed. we will only have our backpacks, with a tiny spirits stove. clothes and some food storage with canned and dried goods. Toilet situation will be handled at public places or in the woods. we will bring a bag shower. that can be heated on the dashboard and hanged from a branch or similar. I have bought a 33 000 mAh 5V battery bank (30$) that can connect 3 devices at a time. It's gonna be charged while driving, and then powering 5V lights, a fan, two phones and tablet. I doesn't have to be particularly advanced to be enjoyable. :)
Before I saw this video with the Prius and the Habitent, I thought no way anyone but a very small, in stature, person could ever live in a Prius. But once again Mr. Bob Wells you have enlightened me. I am amazed of all the storage-incredible and to be able to have 9 weeks of supplies/food, that's incredible. Bob, I must say, watching your videos is like taking a Ph.D level course in Minimalist Nomad living with you as my own personal mentor/advisor. You Sir never disappoint.
I love my prius, its definitely the most reliable car ive ever owned, by far...
You have to love it. When you hit 300K, save up, because you might have to buy a $2K battery.
And during that whole time, you've never had a brake job and have just done oil changes and filter changes.
Me too ! And I’ve had many cars !!
@@garychristison5773 my last car, a dodge dart needed so much maintenance before i even hit 80k. Absolutely horrible experience. Btw, there are people that come and replace your battery for you for around $1500 installed and warrantied!!!
@@kardoyle you seem like a lovely woman :)
That tent is brilliant. Wish her well and safety on her travels. Thank you Bob for giving us all hope and the perspective that “living” doesn’t always mean 4 walls.
You have given me new hope by expanding the possibilities of travel and camping on a very tight budget. Money is always an object, so it’s truly comforting to know that if any of my other ideas/dreams fall through, or I just need to get away without depleting my savings, I could actually do this! Thank you for sharing this with us! You do such good work for those of us who start to lose hope of ever being able to change our lives for the better.👍🏻🙏🏻
I don't know how you can reconcile the phrases "very tight budget" and "without depleting my savings" with the cost of buying a Prius. Does the initial high cost become inconsequential when you add the very low subsequent living costs to it? Are maintenance costs low for the Prius?
@@Just_A_Glo i just figured that they already had a Prius
@@Just_A_Glo "very tight budget" and "without depleting my savings" could mean 3 things: 1. didn't even know living in a car full-time was possible,; 2. didn't know about the habitent; 3. didn't know a prius is so inexpensive.
I was introduced to the idea of #carlife some time after I found out about people in asia living in pods smaller than the space behind the front seats of a car, which happened some time after I was introduced to the idea of #vanlife, which happened some time after I was introduced to the idea of #tinyhouse. And there are people out there who live in #survivalpods which are made with $100 worth of coroplast, zipties, ducktape, vents and a light. Also, there are people who live in houses made out of mud bricks or cob bricks (legally). And people who live in temporary houses made out of clingwrap, scotch tape, and garbage bags (to not be see-through).
Hi Bob, Pressure Cookers: I have been testing my plan to permenantly hit the road for some time and have developed some useful techniques. Pressure cookers are wonderful travel implements, not the electric kind. Work well on 1 burner camp stoves. The best thing is for health, especially vegetables, because you are not boiling away your vitamins. Also applies to meats, retains more of the amino acids, etc. that we eat meat for. Also great for brazing, frying or stir fries without the lid, of course. I've even made yogurt in mine and even canned pints of fresh vegetables. I particularly like soups and stews. Also, try a steak, first seared it with seasonings and take out, then put in the trivet and add water up to a little below it. Bring liquid to a boil, then add in vegetables and return steak on top. A few minutes at pressure and you got it. Note: I only use stainless steel to cook in, or iron. Never aluminum or plastic.
Thanks Bob
We have a 2008 Prius with 220,000 miles on the original battery pack. Still going well and have not done very much to it. A great car.
What are the things that you dont likeabout the prius? There has to be some minuses. I know it is a very reliable car and about the mileage.
Cheers
@@SDsailor7 hard to believe, but nothing...other than I don't want to live in it!
@@SDsailor7 I'm on my 3rd prius, and have done quite a bit of car camping in them. The cons (IMHO):
1. Road noise at highway speeds is more pronounced than most passenger cars. I wear headphones for longer trips.
2. Im 6 foot 1, so the length of the standard prius was just barely long enough for me to sleep comfortably behind the front row passenger seat like you see in this video. My current car is a Prius V, which is station wagon sized and has quite a bit more space behind the front seats.
3. There is no rear climate control, so you have to find a way to vent the conditioned air from the front cabin into the back space behind the curtain, although this is relatively easy to do with a few USB fans.
4. The charging of the big battery isn't customizable. Contrary to what Bob says in this video, the gasoline engine actually only kicks on long enough to fill it from about 20% to around 40% before kicking back off again. It would need to kick on and off a lot less if it would actually charge the big battery fully.
5. Whenever the gas engine kicks on and off, it shakes the car a little. Not a huge deal if you have a good mattress and are a relatively deep sleeper. Parking slightly up or down hill and turning on the parking brake helps a little, but not a lot.
~ Hope that helps
@@chrisschuck2974 Thank you vwry much Chris all this info will certainly help with my decision on wich model to get.
Cheers
Chris Schuck Question for you - I drive a 2017 hybrid CMAX and I find a bit of highway noise, towards the back, more than a usual car. Is this a hallmark of a hybrid?
I have a Prius, 2005 and about 131,000 miles. I just saw this tent addition a few months ago and it was nice to see it from the inside. Good to know about the battery pack. When I bought my Prius 15 years ago, people were saying the replacement was going to be 7,000! 2,000 is a much more viable option. Thanks for another great video!
There are cells. You only replace the bad cell. $35
Also the original 150k life of hybrid has extended to 250k -300 k if you keep your rear seat cooling fan intake vents cleared / cleaned every year ( look on TH-cam for how to do it… the dealership will charge you a fortune). You would not believe how much dirt and carpet fibers/ dog hair was blocking the intake fan. A squirt of WD40 on the fan center connection also helps). Main reason for early hybrid battery failure is overheating due to cooling fan vent clogged!! Cheap insurance…
I just googled the prius battery pack replacement cost. Google quotes $2,400-$2,700.
@@travelnc2g replace the cells? Provided you are dealing with an honest mechanic.
@@josephdebes3060 How many miles? Excuse my ignorance, what are the rear seat cooling fans? Are they located under the hood or actually on the rear seats? I'm not even sure there are rear seats in this car. I'm tiny & flexible, it looks doable for me. I've always owned small cars, but I've driven SUV's, which are more to maintain. While I'm pounding you with stupid questions, is Bear Spray everyone mentions really for bears?! I've been camping since I was a small child to 15, when my family switched to sailing, I've never heard of or seen a bear! I've been to every state on the Continent, except the far Northeast from NY. Never seen or heard a bear.
You had me at “air conditioner runs all night!”
And the engine doesnt have to run when running the ac
@@Dot0011 even for the older, less efficient Priuses, the engine wouldn't consume more than 1 gallon per night with the accessories on.
Biggest power draw in a Prius is all of the drivetrain cooling pumps, etc.
I am a cold weather person so I would be happy to beat the heat!!!
Prius is the best!!!
Air conditioner on wheels!❤
That is an amazing set up.... 9 weeks of food + 8 gallons of water...she has it working very well... Congrats to her... Another good video Bob... Thanks!
Hi Bob. I have commented in the past but, I felt I needed to comment again. GOOD JOB! Your videos are so good on so many levels. You open the eyes of the world to options. Whether or not someone leverages these options is no concern to you. Many people have standards that keep them from using these options. So what. At least you opened up the possibilities.
Take care,
Doug
Belen, New Mexico
Hi Doug I have been looking for land near Belen to build an 8ft by 12ft cabin on. I just loved seeing your msg. Whats it like living in Belen New Mexico? Unique
@@jenniferzuaro7647 wow! I see it's been 10 months and you never got an answer. I hate when people do that. I hope you get your answer soon. 😊
😯Woooow! I'm super impressed! I'm claustrophobic ... but the Habitent solves lots of problems! Genius. I hope whom ever this Prius belongs to has found safety & peace. She's doing good for herself! Brilliantly! 💜🌹💜
With the Habitent, your Prius always looks like it's happy to see you.
Morning wood
LMAO!
Matching color and an extension to a screen room would be nice too.
The tent really allows the person to have some level of comfort and to stretch out...nice
Bob, it’s just the kindest guy ever. He always makes things seem positively possible.
If you are in a car, you can use a medical bed pan (off of Amazon) instead of a bucket for a toilet. You can just sit on the car seat with the pan under you instead of a higher bucket. You'd only need like an inch or two of extra head space for the pan.
Excellent synopsis Bob!
After 6 years of living in my Prius I must say the Habitent is not necessary. Well made window screens offer far better ventilation and use the interior aerodynamic airflow.
A big reason to live in a Prius is the stealth factor. A Habitent kills this. You can sit up in your car seat. No fun packing away a rain soaked Habitent in the morning.
Thanks again for all that you do for us Bob!
Prius Dave do you have a blog? you have no content on TH-cam so just got intrigued by your TH-cam photo seems you have your Prius set up exactly your way :)
@great owl Everyone has different requirements & different tastes as a woman the idea I'm in my car & can get away quickly if needed is reassuring as is the ease of putting this up & not having to lug everything in & out of the car.
.
@@wwaxwork good point. I'd plan to bring a quick pitch tent that I can throw up beside the car with the toilet bucket. If I ever had to abandon it it would cost little to replace and be available everywhere.
Prius Dave , I would use this type of tent set up in the forest or woods camping, not in urban or stealth camping.
Enjoyed the Video: Traveling Nurse here, currently in Venice, FL. I bought a 2014 Peterbilt Class 8 Auto for 17k with the intentions of using it to tow an RV, but I'm on my 4th contract this year and still have not bought an RV and I've been living out of it full time while doing my travel assignments, so far all the hospitals have let me park in the back of the employee parking with no issues and because my truck came with an APU, I've been very comfortable in the sleeper cab when I need it. The manual says it only burns 0.10gals/hr of diesel, so it's actually very affordable to run, way way cheaper than paying for an apartment or house rental. I can cook in the cab with my sous vide, cooker, or microwave, but I typically just walk up to the cafeteria at the hospital for meals and typically shower after my shift in one of the hospital locker rooms after getting permission, otherwise, I shower at the gym when I go there. I added solar panels to the back after I removed the commercial 5th wheel hitch to convert the semi to motorhome for charging the batteries. The savings of just staying in the truck these last 4 contracts has already paid for the price i paid for the truck, i plan to purchase an RV in the future, just be undecided on which one i want.
Do you have link to a Peterbilt Class 8 Auto. Google just shows semis which pretty much every large parking lot these days says no semis so I'm guessing you are in something smaller?
@@msnpassjan2004 I think that you will find when you check into it that a class 8 truck is a full size highway tractor capable of pulling a full size semi trailer at highway speed...
I just LOVE watching Cody wondering around and exploring while you are videoing. Thanks so much for your devotion to helping out the NOMAD community.
I would use a Napier or generic tent that connects to the open hatch. it adds an actual room to the car, a real game changer! I have this solution with my 2015 Prius camper for 7 years,
Bob, you have struck gold again. Organize this group into an innovative force..
I have a 2015 Prius and have been considering moving into it and so I love these videos that give me more confidence that it's possible.
I own a 2016, 76,000 miles Prius. If I only got 50 mpg, I would look for what is wrong; my car gets 60-70 TRUE miles per gallon. Like all other estimates, I have learned how to get this mileage, but it can be done.
They're idling for long periods of time while sleeping, which cuts the mileage quite a bit. I use a prius for work, and mine is virtually never turned off while working, so it drops the mileage to around 55.
Four years ago I bought a very used, obviously in an accident, 2007 Prius. The battery pack is a bit old and not perfect but I've never really had a problem. It's got over 280k miles and it just goes. Great cars.
I am totally impressed! The Habitent is the icing on the cake. And air conditioning on hot summer nights to sleep.... Win, Win!
I'm getting a prius c two hatchback this week. Found a 2016 with 50,000 miles for $12,500. I figured I could do Uber and live in there and save up for a year and a half while i finish my bachelor's degree. Living in one of these is no big deal considering I enjoyed living in a little one person tent for 8 months before.
We have had a Habitent for 3+ years and it has truly has been a GAME CHANGER ! Thank you to the awesome couple to invented it, we are so grateful for the many adventures that this has made possible for us !
Wow! I would have NEVER thought of getting a Prius, and wondered how anyone could. The amazing fuel is a plus. I love the little tent attachment. The engine and gas mileage is great. Thank you Bob for this very good option.
@Douglas I have read that it is difficult to get up to speed when you are trying to merge into the freeway
And that is a drawback
@@SDsailor7 I have Prius. Its not a jack rabbit start but I do not consider it work to get up to speed. Nor do I consider it hard on the car. Just normal operation. That being said my daughter let me drive her car last week and it felt like lead foot louey. I guess it is not a sports car. But I love it. 3 years and many long trips with a used 2007 and I have not had one repair. Gas mileage is so nice! I used to budget for gas each month. I dont anymore. Its such a small expense.
@@travelnc2g What brand is your daughters car. I believe You stated that is a 2007? Thanks in advanced.
@Douglas But what model are you talking about? There are several? Maybe i was reading about the one that does not have the power like yours. I am thinking of buying the V model i like the styling and the cargo capacity even though it does not get as good gas mileage as the other models but it does get waaay better than my tacoma prerunner! I have also owned the toyota 96 sedan i forget the model. I like toyota very reliable.
Cheers
Rob Hernandez Our company vehicles are Prius and yes, excelleration is difficult - you feel like a hampster spinning and wheel isn’t moving. Very ecconomical on gas though.
WoW the Habitent is an awesome game changer! Thanks to your friend and to you Bob for allowing us to see her set up. I really enjoyed it!!
Thank you Bob for sharing her living respectful. I wish her well!
This is so creative and it goes to show you that you don’t have to be homeless
Ive lived in my old Hyundai Sonata ‘05 and buying a Prius was the result of watching the myriad of videos like this. Thank you for spreading the good word of cheap living for travel, or if you meet more dire circumstances.
I'm impressed. The food storage is awesome! I would not have believed it enless you showed it.
OMG Love it
It's a simple and useful add to make camping more comfy. My only hesitation, as always, is my safety. As a single female with no travel companion, I think about those things, like someone, or an animal, could easily slice through a tent.
Bob looks like he lost his job at the North Pole and ended up in the desert lol. Keep up the good job man. I love it!
Amazing how much storage underneath it has. It is a Pretty cool concept for those that own this type of car. That tent opens up alot more options. Thanks Bob ~ 🙋♀️
I had a similar tent, called a gazebo, that fit off my Honda element. It was so helpful for extra space. Mine could hang low off the back end that allowed for changing, showering and potting.
Holy Moly! I live in my 30-ft travel trailer I have a pickup truck to pull the trailer and I have a 2005 Prius. I already have most of the Prius figured out for little trips away from the mothership but this tent this Habitent just puts a whole new chapter in my little mind. Thanks Bob!❤️✔️✌️🖐️👍No affiliate link Bob on the Habitent!🙂
Claude Taylor, Napier Sports Tent 8200 is even BETTER than this one, in MANY ways; check it out if you're planning to get one for a Primus.
But the Napier tent Is so much more expensive and looking at how long it took 2 people to set it up ( TH-cam video) with fiberglass poles and large panels, you might as well get a dome tent. The advantage of Napier is you could fit 3-4 people and the Habitent is really for 1-2 people with quick set up and take downs. Guess it all come down to how much space you need verses ease of use. Wonderful option though.
Were someone to fit the complete Prius power, generating and battery pack into a van they would have the most economic, reliable and versatile vehicle!
Your demonstration of the Habitent was really good, you covered the most obvious aspect of a Prius liveaboard, that of using the toilet.
Which worked well!
That you were able to stand was really amazing, so getting strip-washed and dressed isn't an issue either.
For $99 this tent is excellent value and it really expands the usability of the Prius like nothing else does.
Felix Cat There’s a rumor-and it’s just that-that the Toyota Sienna minivan for 2021 might have hybrid option. It already has a AWD option for 2020.
If my '05 is still going strong in a few more years I may or may not transplant the parts into an oldish lightweight wagon; Toyota used to make a Prius wagon but it has 130hp instead of my 110hp. I'd be concerned about the weight of an actual van unless you can get bigger and badder hybrid axles and come to think of it you probably could especially as hybrids become even more popular... Hmm.
@@mugustabjeonklei2613 Thinking about this from a slightly different perspective for a moment, it occurred to me that if one were to alter the bodywork of an existing Prius, it could be re-fabricated into a light van configuration using flat, lightweight composite body and roof panels!
That way, a metal frame would ensure srtuctural rigidity (to replace the original bodywork-doors-boot-roof) and form the base to mount the panels to, or, a smaller metal frame to ensure rigidity and a composite panel body attach directly to that frame.
Lengthening a car is very simple, however, the batteries location might make that more complicated.
There's quite a growing band of companies offering non-factory options for Prius and Tesla's, and a guy on YT strips, re-engineers and reconfigures Tesla's so the knowledge base and expertise for adapting electric and hybrid vehicles is growing.
Were someone to buy a used Prius and reconfigure it into a lightweight van, there would be phenomenal interest in the project.
I imagine it to look like a mini step van, with flat panel bodywork wherever possible!
Someone with more computer/online/YT experience than I could set up the Prius Camper Challenge and invite people to reconfigure the bodywork to build a lightweight, composite paneled Prius Camper, possibly crowd fund a prize to encourage builders!
Like I said, tis' just a thought!
I have had this Prius tent for years. Love being able to take off when I want and have shelter. Easy set up and take down. Love it
Is it waterproof?
Fantastic - I am so impressed. The Habitent is a game-changer. It goes to show that is possible to be comfortable and have all the essentials in in a very small space, and have the luxury of freedom to travel
I am facing a week between a rental and a housesit, so I'm thinking my CRV tented up could be a simple camping solution. Thanks for sharing your set-up, stranger.
CRV’s are excellent for camping
That's such a great idea for spring through fall. You have a week in between homes? Rather than spending $700 or more on an airbnb or budget hotel, invest in an elegant $350 napier hatchback tent and have plenty left over for a high end campsite for a week.
N
I am not a technical person and I am so happy Bob explain things so easy for me to follow. Thank you many times foro doint that for all of us.
I thought the Prius idea was silly, now I am thinking with the tent it's doable!
I hooked up 2000 watt inverter to 12 volt battery and for emergencies I can run my house necessity like a refrigerator washing machine and LED lights
Or if I have to go to remote locations I always have 120-volt 2000 Watts power available with me. If you ever decide to hook up inverter make sure you use proper size wiring otherwise it might burn things down. Follow the factory instructions or figure out ohms law what is a Supply and what is consumption in and out.
Fantastic use of space, you are very organized. Great job
Best of Bob's great points: easily getting used to the change in living environment
Bob, thank you. The Prius is a great generator, endless possibilities!
I have an 07 Prius. I've owned every type vehicle you can think of just about & like the Prius best of all. They are absolutely amazing! You don't know until you have one. Yes the space is incredible!
As a prius camper, I would never sleep without closing all the doors. We live in a crazy world. I would not feel safe. Other than that, prius life is good.
same....
Hope for Christ
Was that ever mentioned..... I think the point was the habitent and the room
I don’t think he was implying Sleeping with the doors open ..?
I think the doors were open to make the video so we could see the inside of the prius
Isn't the point of the habitent to sleep with the hatchback door open? If so then you definitely only want to do that someplace safe with other campers... Preferably not near a city like their doing in this video
Its no diff than tent camping.
Hey guys,my prius is 17 years old,still like new,still on original batteries,never any issues.i get it serviced every 10000km at my main toyota dealer . it's so good I bought another new one in 2017,and it's magnificent.
It's amazing to me how much bigger it all looks from the inside, especially with the Habitent! Nice!
As a driver of a Prius, I love this!!! I myself wouldn’t live in my car if I didn’t need to, but I would definitely do this to go camping!!!
I wish you would run me over with your prius
I did this with a station wagon and a blazer large one and a small one and lived on the parkway ID go to work and saved a nice amount of cash
You "The Man" Bob. I love how you take care of people. Helpful, knowledgeable, kind. Leader in all Spects of life!!!
It's interesting that somebody decided to make a "tent" product like that one. In the 60s, they made a truck camper that slid into the back of a stationwagon...it's Google-able.
The nice thing about that padded top on the bucket is you can just use it as a chair, too.
That's a cool little tent! Actually not bad at all.
My wife bought a 2012 Prius C new and has put nearly 200 000 km/ 125 000 miles on the clock, with no major expense as of early 2021.
Congratulations to Habitent. It does not say stealth to me but does allow convenience. Still, as you point out, the owner could sleep in there with the back down, so maintains the option not to use it. I love your presentations. Even without the interesting interview, a powerful story sits between the lines that will resonate with some.
Hi Bob. I just love the habitent. People are amazing how they come up with new inventing ideas. Thanks for the viewing infi.
Thank you for talking on the all-important topic of bathroom needs in a smaller vehicle, and for literally showing how someone can make it work! 🙂
now thats another great video bob and also one of your more extensive illustrations of using the bucket facilities in the ever efficient prius. love it!
Hi Bob just want to mention I own a 10 year old prius and have about 182,000 miles on it. About 3 weeks ago when I was in FL, 3 check lights came on, basically the brake regeneration system broke, they had to replace the wheel sensor and the regenerative master controller, basically $4,500 (20 hours of labor) - was quite shocked - I assume a normal car wouldn't have this. I have slept in my prius, moving passenger seat fully forward and have the gap filled with cooler and bag, and I'm 6' 1" 270lbs and I slept very well in it. I must admit washing my 'bits' in the morning was a challenge. Keep up the good work
I have a 2011 Prius and this video gives me hope for the future nomadic lifestyle I intend on living. Thanks for the video!
Clever. Vulnerable. I would prefer some sort of collapsible hardshell add-on that can be locked for safety.
That habitan also allows you to have Elbow Room to get your paperwork done when Nature Calls that is a very big problem for a lot of people as well
Bob, I just want you to know that the work you do and how you do it is just awesome!! I live in Africa and I'm a keen camper. I have learned so much from you for which I am TRULY grateful. Thanks a million!! You open one's eyes to possibilities one would rarely think about. May you be blessed handsomely and safe travels ahead.❤
Bravo Prius Nomads!
Based on some research, you can draw up to about 1300 watts max safely based on the second gen prius hybrid system. Always use a pure sine inverter as it will make you appliances run cooler.
Thanks Bob, yet another great video showing off the great options available nowadays. And as usual, presented in a very professional manner. Videos produced with excellence that make things as clear as possible. Kudos to you and your team!
437k on my 2005 Prius. Still original battery! Runs excellent! There's a guy local guy who services these batteries. If I had to replace $600, maintenance $250. So that's where your at on the batteries. I have a 2009 as well. I love this car.
wow....thanks Bob! I have a Geo Metro and I bet that will fit the same because it is a fore runner to the prius awesome!
Prius uses a heat pump, it will heat the car like it cools it. So in temps above 35 it runs like the ac and engine just comes on to charge batteries like on ac. At colder temps the engine will also provide heat.
Wow! That tent is awesome! 100% differ es n't. Good luck to the owner - she certainly is good at finding solutions.
That Habitent really is a game changer, makes getting changed so much easier.
Very neat set up for one person I'd definitely stay with you guys . I'd feel very safe there
Thank you for posting this! Not sure how I missed it as I search out every video regarding living in a Prius , because that’s what is going to me my home soon. I’ve had the same 2004 Prius since I bought it at an auction in 2006 for $5500. It was in perfect condition, but no one really seemed to want it because a hybrid vehicle was a relatively new idea and didn’t trust them. Other than general maintenance, oil change, tires, wipers, the only thing I’ve ever had to replace on it was the front right bearing twice. I can’t say that about any other vehicle with 230,000 miles on it. I’m thinking it’s time to get a habitent! Thank you for your fine video!
this habitent is definitely a game changer
Bob makes pooping in a bucket in a car glamorous 💩
It really is!
Thanks Sharon for showing us your Prius in style✌️😎
I traveled for 4 months in mine and I love it. The main thing is reliability. When I owned an RV something was ALWAYS breaking. With the Prius after 6 years, all I have ever spent is on maintenance. Also, easy to get an appointment for service should anything go wrong. No more paying for 2 insurances, 2 registrations, excessive toll fees or parking fees. Car washes are everywhere and not too expensive, plus a smaller area to clean. I use 2 1/2 gal. bleach bottles ( with a funnel) for #1 and a Turbo Toilet for #2. No more hunting for a dump station. I wish it had more clearance, but I have gotten into plenty of BLM lands and National forests that the bigger rigs could not go. Absolutely love my Prius camper!
that's nice.
Glad this works good for this lady.
well done to her.
Interesting product. I love that there's a Bathroom solution in the back, very clever.
Bob - really nice job on demonstrating the viability of living out of the Prius. The sacrifices you make! I think you deserve a new pair of socks. Also, closing the side vent panels before standing up (w/pants down) is imperative!
unless you want to moon someone!
SC mooning women from a Prius got Harvey Weinstein in trouble.
@@jamesscott1932 teehee
lol, i noticed the socks too
Aw, he’s a practical man. Let him have holes in his socks.👍❤️
I turned my chevy sonic into a camper! not a hatchback and not a prius (one day!!) but it does enough for me right now. love how nimble it is, and EXTREMELY stealthy
This is exciting. Like this better than the Tesla, especially price wise.
it is obviously way better than a tesla, considering price, upgrades, aftermarket customisations and a big community
Really thorough description of how to make a Prius work. Great job Bob! Thanks for all that you do to help so many.
Wow, that tent changes everything 😊
I've got a van right now but have been taking a hard look at the Prius. This habitent is tipping the scales rapidly for me.
Thanks Bob
That’s amazing how much room the habitent adds!👍
Hi Bob! The individual cell modules of the hybrid battery can be changed. My son had 3 modules changed on our 2014 Prius two years ago for less than $500. There are (I think) 28 modules in the hybrid battery. The entire hybrid battery hardly ever goes completely bad.
Thank you for always very informative videos!
I love my Prius! The ability to leave it on with the climate control running is what really sold me. You have to remember to engage the parking brake so that the engine starting doesn't jostle the car, and earplugs help with the engine noise, but otherwise, it's great! The stealth is awesome.
Jonathan Baldwin , just wondering.... in my Nissan Rogue hybrid when the engine is turned on , the “ running lights” are on automatically.... in order to not have them come on, you engage the parking brake before turning on the engine. Makes it truly stealth. Does the Prius have this problem/ feature? Thanks
With the Prius you have the option of Turing off the running lights(at least with my 2013 Prius C -4…control on light handle). The parking brake does help with the small jolt forward when the engine kicks on to charge the accessory battery to run the A/C all night. Just remember you have to run the engine, not just accessories mode, or the A/C will self shut off after about 3-4 hours. Not sure that all hybrids work the same way. You can also add a 1000 watt electric inverter off the accessories battery in your trunk and your Prius will run a small microwave or a camping cooler. One Prius owner with an inverter was able to run major appliances in his house during super storm sandy and the Prius gas lasted 1 week, while his neighbors had to find gas every 1-2 days. Google “Prius runs home during Sandy storm”. The Prius is truly a computer on wheels
The tailveil worked really well with my Prius. It makes a full room on the back of the Prius and has a rain cover which gives you complete privacy with a door & windows you can unzip for ventilation & room for a small table, chair etc. Also with the Prius running the heater kept me warm in the tailveil as well. Beachcricket made a video of me with mine.
You don't have to replace the whole battery pack... you can replace the individual cells. You could have the battery, re-conditioned. The batteries last on average 12 to 15 years.
The new hybrid Toyota Sienna seems like the ultimate vanlife vehicle if you could afford one. Tons of room, sliding door, all the benefits of a mobile generator, plus 35 mpg with AWD!