Prius Living- Full Camper Tour (with toilet and running water)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 26 เม.ย. 2022
- Quick, overall tour of my Prius camper. I removed my backseats to make room for storage, adding a platform for the bed and toilet. Also, added an inverter which is connected to the car's 12V battery for power.
Below are links to what was purchased on Amazon.
Exterior and misc (not all were mentioned in video but thought I would share)
-Renogy 2000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter amzn.to/3xeUwrH
-Ceiling Cargo Net amzn.to/47c1j4n
-Mosquito Net amzn.to/3TYPYiR
-Center Hub Caps amzn.to/3RS6ors
-Rear bumper protector amzn.to/3B9rv1A
-Cup Holder Tray amzn.to/3U3KALc
-All Weather Mats amzn.to/3eA4ltD
-Sun Rain Vent Guards amzn.to/3LkOOdP
-Rear view mirror clip on amzn.to/3DgTQFT
-Sun Visor Organizer amzn.to/3DdowYR
-Window Mesh Socks/Sleeves amzn.to/3YHZEzY
-Super awesome, stretchy fitted sheet amzn.to/3xeZpkv
"Bathroom" area
-Go Anywhere Toilet amzn.to/3xhr4Bf
-Poo Powder amzn.to/3eFRQNg
-Commode Liners amzn.to/3xhrlUN
-Backseat Car Organizer amzn.to/3REA0sE
-Trash Can amzn.to/3d9wurm
-Personal Fan amzn.to/3B4sC2N
-Fire Extinguisher amzn.to/3d6UZFA
"Kitchen" area
-Coffee Maker amzn.to/3xfAkWN
-Coffee Pods amzn.to/3K3HmlS
-Water dispenser/faucet amzn.to/48besfB
-Water container/jug amzn.to/3eByXLr
-Griddle amzn.to/3RWk0lC
-Power Strip amzn.to/3eIRa9N
-Combination Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detector Alarm amzn.to/3ScKS0X
-350W Space heater amzn.to/3By8LKG
-Mini Cooker (not shown in this video) amzn.to/3jLBMg1
-Mini Fridge (also not shown in this video, but added later) amzn.to/4773Zk1
-Thermometer amzn.to/3YMJCF4
Safety Stuff (not shown in the video)
-OBD II Scanner amzn.to/3d2vV2z
-Auto Tire Pump amzn.to/3qw4Szw
-Self Jump Starter amzn.to/41xOL6l
-SOS Personal Locator Beacon amzn.to/3Bz2fUa
-Fuse Assortment Kit amzn.to/3eKheRS
-Tire Repair Kit (similar to the one I picked up at the auto store) amzn.to/47sluLT
-Cargo Net and Clips amzn.to/47c1j4n
-Headlamp amzn.to/41EsvrE
-Airtag amzn.to/3DhInWS
-Gas Bottle amzn.to/3RzyvMs
-Bungee Cord Assortment (similar to the one I bought at Walmart) amzn.to/3RzlIt7
-Safety Hammer/Seatbelt Cutter (similar to the one I bought many years ago) amzn.to/3RRcqbS
-Taser/Mini Stun Gun amzn.to/3Ue9OHd
-Pepper Spray amzn.to/3eJorSw
The links above are affiliate links. This means that, at zero cost to you, I will earn an affiliate commission if you click through the link and finalize a purchase.
I also converted my Prius to a microcamper. Been living out of it full time for the past eleven months. I absolutely love living out of my car.
I really like your setup and layout. My layout is very similar. Except at about eight months in I decided to remove my passenger seat. Which I immediately regretted not doing sooner. I also removed my entire glove box from the dash assembly. The space that the glove box previously consumed and wasted was about four square feet in total. Like your white plastic storage bin in back of your Prius. I have a black taller one that now sits where the glove box used to be. And I love love love having a set of storage drawers there instead.
Super impressed you got the lift kit, that was a very wise choice. One more body modification I would recommend is something called a cat shield. It helps to prevent your catalytic converter from being sawed off by thieves, which only takes them one to two minutes. Catalytic converter theft has exploded over the past several years. The repair bill will be in the several thousands of dollars. The cat shield (Miller Cat) is only a couple of hundred. If you get it, get the stainless steel version.
I'm subbing to your channel because Prius nomads are my favorite people. So keep the cool content coming. Thank you for sharing your camper with us. Stay safe out there, have fun!
Thanks so much for your kind words and for sharing your experience as well! Cat shield is definitely on my list. I’ve thought about removing the passenger seat but have a need for it for now. Safe travels and thanks for subscribing!
Boy when are you making videos? Sounds like we need to be learning from you!
Do you have a you tube about your prius set up? I dont have a prius. Ive got a chevy tracker that I camp in. I to need my front seat but once I dont its out of there. I have every intention of living out of my car once my medical problem is under control.
Show us your set up! 😊 I just got a prius V, I'm a Honda element camper and am really excited to experience camping in a prius for the first time.
Good conversation
I went from a camper van to a Prius as well. I miss the space of the van that was excellent, and totally enough to live but the gas mileage was killer, and this Prius is amazing for that.
I have zero regrets despite the smaller space 😊
@@sweetoldbertha put comment text here
Really nice set up! A warning about the Weather Tech shades to anyone considering buying them: the ones I purchased for my vehicle have gaps in them that are large enough for light to leak out and for someone to see in. Some of them are so poorly fitted that they fall out of the window easily at times.
I contacted Weather Tech, sent them photos of the gaps, and they refused to do anything to resolve the problem and insisted that the gaps were no big deal. They said that all the ones they make for my vehicle have those gaps.
Plus, the black side is shiny like the silver side and reflects some light, which makes it rather obvious that you have window covers in your windows.
Basically, if you are looking for custom window covers that fit your windows perfectly and are very stealth and not so obvious, beware of Weather Tech. I cannot recommend them.
I bought a whole set of WeatherTEch also. Front windshield one has huge gaps and agree about the shiny black side. Wouldnt buy again for those reasons.
@@bliss149 Thanks for sharing. I am sorry you had that experience. It is something of a relief to know I am not alone though. The worst part is that the company does not care about their customers to make sure that if they are selling a custom fitted product, the customer gets a custom fitted product. They just make excuses and try to rationalize some pointless reason to ignore that it is not a custom fit. A very poor company to do business with.
Thank you for the warning! Nice to know before I buy or make any window covers.
@@gwip1830 I did extensive additions to all my WeatherTech shades over a year ago - they took days to complete - and I still have problems with some of the shades. I had to cover every shade on the black side with black cloth completely to take away the tell-tale shininess on the black side, as well as use a lot of extra cloth to fill gaps around the edges. Basically, some of the shades were just made way too small by Weather Tech, and even with extensive additions some still continuously fall out of the window and I have to play with the edges each time I use them to have a good seal. Even then there are gaps, although very minor.
They are good quality shades as far as longevity goes, and with the pricey and time consuming modifications the ones that do work easily work nicely. But they don’t all work easily and nicely. I think if someone is just looking for sun protection they are fine. But for car campers who want their privacy at night, I just can’t recommend them “as is.” Unless you think it is fair to spend all that money on the shades and then still invest more money and extra time on making them right… and still risk having issues and risk having to do extra work to get them in place right. For the price, I think they should be ready to go and they should all work without extra effort. Car camping is time consuming enough without having to play with your shades every evening.
It’s a good car setup actually. U could also make a triple fold to go over the toilet which can doubly as a seating area. That’s about the only thin I’d add👍👍
Thanks so much!
@@sweetoldbertha Very nice setup
Your toilet videos have given me renewed hope for future car living, thank you! I have a tiny SUV with 59" behind front seat and no room to sit up. Just purchased so will keep it for some time. Must have some way to "go" and nearly gave up on options (other collapsibles are too tall and pee bottle, well, just might require lots of carpet replacement for some builds). Will rewatch your videos lots.
So glad it was helpful! You wouldn’t believe the amount of time and thought I gave to a toilet system lol. Even ordered a couple options and put them inside the car to visualize how I could build around it. Almost all of them were too tall so needed one where the bag didn’t have to be secured by a bucket or something underneath because there just wasn’t enough room. I have to pee at least once a night, sometimes twice. So getting out of the car to go wasn’t an option. And I didn’t want something that could possibly spill. Take a look at the bed/toilet platform build if you have time (if you haven’t already). Thanks again 😊
I went through your item list in the description, I was looking for a simple way to cook! The starter gizmo👍 The window screens👍
I saved a lot of your links for future reference - Thanks for sharing 🥰
The roof net to hold the window inserts is smart!
Very cool set up. I like how you have a designated bathroom ( toilet) area.
Thanks so much 🙂
That’s all i need for the rest of my life
Not only is your video helpful but also the comments are very valuable with the pros and cons of different things such as toilets etc
So glad you found it helpful! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions.
The toilet setup is really brilliant!
Thanks so much! I spent an embarrassingly long time researching my options then designing the platform lol.
Thanks for the tour and list (getting several things from it). I just picked up a gen 3 (2010) and looking forward to some camping.
You’re very welcome! Hope you enjoy camping in it as much as I do!
How much did you pay for it?
This is an awesome setup you have! You are much more organized than I could ever hope to be! 😅
Thanks so much 😊
You figured every necessary detail. Bravo!!!
Thanks so much 😊
That's an awesome toilet setup .. best I've ever seen 😍🙌👏👌 great setup btw..
Thanks so much 😊
Great toilet placement🙂 Thank you. Watched a video today that stated you should be extremely cautious having water over your Prius battery.
Thanks so much!
Excellent build. The best I seen.
Safe Traveling🙂
Thanks so much 😊
Really Brilliant!!,We want more videos on regular basis please
Thanks so much! Have ideas for next several videos, will try to get some more recorded over the coming weeks.
Your placement of the toilet is incredibly natural 👍 I'm in the process of building mine out & gotta incorporate your feature. I've got the back seat out but use the whole width as a bed, spoiled. I might split & hinge the platform just as the seats once opened to reveal a most convenient & private place to role along with nature's call. Thanks for sharing the place!
That’s a brilliant idea, splitting the bed to make an area for a toilet below. Sounds like you’ll have the best of both worlds 😊
I've got lots of appreciation for your sharing & others sharing on YT with their designs. I'm looking to make it in my own way too, but not before considering how others have made themselves comfortable, Thanks! 🥰 @@sweetoldbertha
I love your toilet set up.
Thanks so much! I am hoping to do another video about it in more detail soon. Since that seems to be what people are most interested in lol. I spent countless hours researching and working on it.
such a great set up, thanks for sharing it with me. I like how you’ve got the toilet set up in there, I think that’s what I’d like to do too :)
You are so welcome!
Really nice setup, thanks for sharing in the SUV group. Subbed!!
Thanks so much!
Great video and setup! Earned a sub 🙏
Awesome, thank you!
Good job.
Be safe.
Thank you 😊
I like ur set up. I have a Nissan Qasqai & I'm thinking to remove the 2 back seats to get more space. Too bad here in Egypt where I live is not easy to find camping gear for campervans. I like very much the little heater u got. Also the toilet is great. Here we don't have any of the toilet options so I have to create something possibly with wood savings & maybe cat litter.! 🤣😂🤪
Lol that was an option I considered as well! From what I’ve heard, it works quite well!
Good set up with such limited space. I too have an inverter set up in my SUV much cheaper than the expensive power sources people are buying out there It works with my coffee maker, mini cooler and electric blanket.
Thank you 😊. I know a lot of people love those jackery stations, but I’m with you! An inverter is definitely a better fit for my needs.
As a safety inspector that smoke detector is useless there. It needs to be at the highest point in the vehicle because by the time smoke reaches that you will be unconscious or dead from invisible toxic fumes. You can buy much smaller ones the size of a quarter or half dollar then put them directly OVER the fire hazard not by it or under it. A Carbon Monoxide detector is needed as well and those if they are separate from the smoke detector can be anywhere in the vehicle. Carbon Monoxide does not rise is spreads evenly
Thanks so much for the info! The one I have is supposed to be a smoke and carbon monoxide detector in one. I figured in such a small place, it would detect even a whiff of smoke, even if not placed high. Where would you recommend placing the combination detectors in a car?
@@sweetoldbertha in a car you have less than the standard 20 seconds to escape an RV fire. In most cases you have a few seconds at best without injury. In a Prius I would put it directly above the potential source of the fire. Most house fires occur from 3 top sources; 1. cooking fires, for RVing that is portable cooking sources. 2. Heating, aka portable heaters in our case. 3. Electrical, in homemade RVing extension cords are used a lot. 4. Is smoking but that is only 5% of fires.
I am really glad you use the coffee pod system. It is much more contained and the heating elements are internal. Much less risky. A microwave is best but who is going to put one in a Prius. I am assuming a hot plate of some kind is your go to. Just make sure you do NOT fall asleep during or after cooking. If you start dozing uncontrollably waiting for it to cool down or while cooking, it would be better to risk losing the hot plate outside the vehicle than falling asleep even for a few seconds with it on. You will have no time to get out in a Prius. It will be right next to your head or feet. Cars have plastic, and plastic is actually made of petroleum. The same stuff we use to power our cars, light our lighters, burn in our furnaces, just in a different form. Put that thing right above your cooking source. The US Fire Code for HUD Housing Quality Inspectors states nothing flammable/combustible within 3 feet or 1 meter in metric, from a major heat source. In houses that means people can not have plastic bins, cardboard boxes, paints, fuel, oil, etc near a water heater where the pilot light is enclosed inside the heater. I don’t expect boon-dockers to follow house codes even though they should. I will just say every time you add a connection to something electric you create a hot spot. Example: Two extension cords connected to each other then to a wall outlet when felt will be warm/hot to the touch. That is a hot spot. That is where I would put it if you do not have a hot plate but use those cords and/or power strips with fuses. Always right above the potential danger. You can watch videos of simulated RV fires to see how quick they spread. The plastic in our cars melts and drips down causing worse burns than a wood or metal burn does.
I just want people to be careful. A fire is the worst way to die if you are awake. I have been involved and witnessed multiple house fires in my life. Thank God none were my fault and I survived. If people think I am over reacting then take a piece of plastic from a car. Start it on fire. Let the plastic drip onto your skin for one second then try to wipe it off. It will not wipe off. The molten plastic keeps burning like napalm bombs on your skin. If a candle will give a weak burn from wax. Plastic melting is its exact polar extreme. Burning through multiple layers of skin, then soft tissues, then muscle in seconds.
@@JustSomeGuyNotAnAlien Thanks so much for all the helpful information. My Prius was recently struck by lightning and totaled as a result, so will be referencing your comment during my rebuild.
@@sweetoldbertha Whaaaaat!!!! Are you kidding? Is there any more info on the lightning destruction? WOW
@@Dr.G I am okay and working on a memorial video lol. Pretty much all the warning lights flashed, then said check hybrid battery, then she died 😞. There was no physical damage noticed on the outside but electronics were fried. Over $7 in preliminary repair just to replace control modules.
Before I even watch this video I did the same thing with the WeatherTech and also the net that hangs on the OS handles and that's where I put my stuff too! Love your setup by the way!!
Thanks so much! How has your front windshield cover held up? Mine looks like trash now and doesn’t stay in place well after quite a bit of use this year.
@@sweetoldbertha so pretty much I took a cloth from Walmart and glued it on to every piece that I have to make it look more like it's tent at with no shine and I let it overlap on the edges so less light can come in. As for the front windshield I went out and bought a extending rod for the bathroom for like a window or something so I can extend it and it will stay flush against the windshield. So fabric on top of the extendable rod makes it stay in place pretty well!
Would love to see any more crazy things you come up with in your car!!! Love it!
@@36Acebuchanan Thank you! Love your window mods, I hate the shiny silver of the shades. One of them is covered with stickers from all the places I've visited but thinking of covering the rest with wallpaper, vinyl, or cloth. If I can remember, I'll do an updated video with the shades once they're redone.
@@sweetoldbertha please do! I'd love to see what you come up with you're set up is just fantastic!
Simple....nice..good job.
Thanks so much!
Great job! Very informative!:))
Thanks so much!
Very nice! I like your setup. It looks comfortable!
3:24 one person cut a partial slit in the divider over their tire. He could lift a single side like a hamper lid, without clearing the entire back. (He accessed the front half, but back half meant more removing:) )
It's an interesting idea, though I'm not sure about it :)
A separate tip I saw was a guy with pepper gel. It's not an aerosol spray and is safe for enclosed spaces.
(Edit aerosol spray)
Thanks for the tips! I really like the idea of being able to lift part of that cover. That’s something I hadn’t considered. I could just fold the mattress to the front, and be able to reach at least some things under the bed without moving the other stuff. I’ll try to remember to make a video if I follow through with that modification.
Thanks for the video great job wondering about a cooler/fridge not sure what you do with your food ? Love the toilet idea
Thanks so much! I currently use a cooler but plan on switching to a very small fridge which will likely end up behind the passenger seat.
Love prius offroad
AWESOME SET UP😍💝BE SAFE
Thanks so much!
Great video, thank you :D
Thanks for watching 🙂
Good setup 🙂
Thanks so much 😊
I have ALWAYS wished I had a bathroom in my car!
I can’t believe I lived the first 38 years of my life without one lol
It's amazing that all your set up is actually set up and ready to be accessed and used in your Prius! One observation was that your plastic water jug next to wheelwell was very close to your inverter switch. If jug accidentally jostled that switch to an off or on position, could that cause a problem?
Thanks! I guess it could be bad if I had perishables in my fridge (didn’t have the fridge when I made this video). I actually moved the switch closer to the front of the car (close to the coffee maker). You can see it in my newer videos. I never had trouble with turning it on or off by accident in either location though.
Behind that heater. There is a button that rotates its to fit the way you may like.
Cool video! I would like to see an average day of camping (especially stealth camping). Thanks for sharing!
Thanks so much! I will add that one to my list.
I love your setup! Really great use of space. I have a 1500 watt inverter and use an instant pot. For privacy I have dark tint and also use the Weather Tech shades. For longer trips I use a Thule cargo rack, but this does hurt my mileage. Hope you have a lot of good times! 👍 😎
Can we get a video of the set-up bro? Sounds cool, I would like to see it!
Thanks so much! I’ve thought about getting a cargo rack but am probably more concerned about fuel economy than I need to be. How much of a difference do you notice?
@@sweetoldbertha From what I heard and read people saying. You should expect to lose upwards of 10mpg with a rooftop cargo box. For the Prius, people claim less loss with trailer hitch mounted box. Though that requires getting a trailer hitch installed as well as a suitable cargo box. So more money upfront but would save you money over time if you drive a lot of miles. The trailer hitch boxes are also more convenient to access.
That’s a lot of work
The bed/toilet platform took some time. But someone who’s better with woodworking could have probably had it done in a day lol
Hi I am impressed with you ingenuity. Where did you get the brackets you used for support of bed and toilet wood?
Thanks so much! I actually just found the brackets in my dad's storage shed lol. I'm not sure of it's original intended use but I'm guessing a hardware store could help with that.
I had a Autohaus rooftop on top of my RV and Loved it!!
You may consider
What’s an Autohaus? Extra storage?
Nice!
Wow I have a 12/17engine Prius.
I really thought that your water and sink setup was the way to go when I watched your video the first time and they just arrived a couple of days ago
That’s so awesome! Let me know how it works out for you 🙂
@@sweetoldbertha I just drilled the hole it the top of the lid today...Im really excited that I won't have to pull out my 5 gallon water jug anymore to fill my H2O bottle. I think I might look for a longer hose at Hope Depot or Lowes. Thank you so much for the video...you made my life easier.
@@bebelives oh you got the water jug too? Mine ended up leaking recently (crack on the bottom). I haven’t decided if I want to replace it or just use gallon jugs. Or try to repair. I went off road a good bit the last month or two. Not sure if the bouncing around caused the damage. Had it in for months before that with no issues, but that was mostly highway and smooth road driving.
@@sweetoldbertha I did get the same jug. I have old half inch gym mats...ill probably cut off a piece to put under the jug to give it some cushioning. Thanks for the heads up.
@@bebelives that’s a great idea, I may do the same!
Excellent setup ! Just starting to venture into car life in my 2007 Prius…
Test trip for a week or so from Florida to Mount Rushmore (after Hurricane Ian passes through). I am warming up to removing the backs seat idea.
I would like to see how you have the inverter set up (what kind is it)
Thanks for sharing.
I have a Renogy 2000w inverter. Is it way more than I’ll probably ever need but I bought it thinking I’d be powering more stuff and that I’d eventually get a second 12v battery. I’m planning to do my next video about power management and climate control. Just have to get the time and motivation to get it done lol
@@sweetoldbertha I decided to get a BLUETTI 700w power supply for now (just ordered it today - $400 🙂)
Found a $10 “mini noodle cooker” at Walmart (about 250w), gets hot enough to cook eggs 🥚 which I eat every day; on a keto-style, intermittent fasting (two meals a day) eating lifestyle; makes shopping and food storage easier, and save $$
Will use the Bluetti mostly recharging electronics; once I get more into the “life” I’ll decide on maybe an electric cooler (12v?)…
@@cameronsimonton2515 I have a little six can fridge that is enough for me for now. I usually eat just one or two meals a day along with a protein shake and some snacking. Definitely makes this it easier for planning and packing!
@@sweetoldbertha You mentioned climate control. I was under the impression Prius dwellers just let the car run the A/C in the summer with the windows closed and the car's gas engine burns about a gallon through the night. Are you planning something different?
@@notachannel8560 I do use the car’s climate control for ac when needed. Also use multiple fans and a small plug in heater, depending on the temperature.
I saw another video with your white prius, i ordered some poo powder. Ill have it tomorrow.
You can tell from my videos, that I’m a big fan of that stuff lol. Let me know what you think.
Very adventurous! My question for all of the car dwellers is what do you do for an address for financial stuff, car registration and health insurance? Does it get hard trying to find good places to camp continuously? Thanks
I use my parents’ address for financial stuff, mail, and everything else. Don’t have problems finding good places to camp. There are apps to help with finding spots and honestly with a Prius, stealth camping is pretty easy as well.
I signed up for mail at a homeless shelter where I grew up (we are "homeless" by the definition of sticks and bricks dwellers, after all), and I also have a PO Box closer to where I stay.
respect!
Thanks so much!
@@sweetoldbertha I am planning to take my family in small trips around Eroupe and I learned alot from your video. Practical and useful advices you have there. However, I am not sure if I can fit in all of us (me, wife and two kids).
Subbed for sure 😎💪
Awesome! Thanks so much 😊
@@sweetoldbertha which state are you in? And is instagram in play as well
🤔🔥😎
@@scottm8914 not really into social media. I am all over the place but currently in SC 😊
@@sweetoldbertha so cool im from san diego and have always wanted to make the trip to the carolinas 😎💪
I would like to see your sleeping platform to get some ideas on what I can do after I remove the backseat. I have removed my front seat to make room for my fridge and power station.
The sleeping platform took a lot of thought and planning due to the toilet in mine. Hoping to do an in-depth video about it sometime soon.
I just wanted to chime in on this. Being a full time Prius nomad myself, one who has removed every seat except for the drivers seat. Who also has a refrigerator and an EcoFlow River Max power station.
In my opinion, the absolute best place for the refrigerator is behind the drivers seat. Especially if you keep the rear drivers side window permanently blacked out, which I also recommend. This location, with the blacked out window will prevent direct sunlight from ever hitting your refrigerator, which will use less electricity. In my opinion, upon reflection of myself previously considered your same refrigerator location. It simply gets too much sunlight. It's also closer to the floorboard of the vehicle. Where road heat is easily transferred to bottom of the refrigerator. The cons outweigh the pros for that location for me personally. I will say this in your locations favor. The only real pro, it is a more convenient location to access and it would be easier to grab a cold drink on a long drive.
For the bed platform, I used a single mattress size tri-folding metal frame I found on Amazon, I believe the brand name was Hofish. I just cut the metal frame lengthwise to make it 25" wide, then drilled holes and bolted the two pieces back together. Welding would have worked as well. A platform with any sort of hinges would be highly recommend. It makes it really convenient to store and retrieve stuff from under the bed. I just secured my bed frame to the plastic panel that sits on top of the hybrid battery. I wasn't sure if it would hold over time, metal frame secured to 1/8" plastic but I have had zero issues. In hindsight, if I had to do it over again. I would just make the bed platform out of treated wood with regular household door hinges.
Definitely get a refrigerator and definitely get a power box. Both of those items make my nomad life better. Don't get any refrigerator smaller than 30 quarts/liters.
I just went with a cheap Alpicool T36 (36 Liter/38 Quart). I think it was around $320 when I got it. It's been running 24/7 for 11 months straight. If or when it ever fails and the repair cost would make it unfeasible. I would go with an Acopower LiON series. Which has interchangeable ~200wh batteries and a solar charging port. Allowing you to use both solar and an alternate power source, like your 12v cigarette lighter port in your car or on your power station.
For the power station. EcoFlow is my favorite brand. My EcoFlow River Max is ~600wh and has served me and my refrigerator reliably well and without fail for the same eleven months. In hindsight, after a year of this. I am saving up to upgrade to the EcoFlow Delta Max ~2000wh battery and built-in 2000w+ inverter. The main reason for wanting to upgrade is to facilitate more more power for real cooking appliances. Like an Airfryer and an electric stove top or induction burner. As well as have at least an hour runtime on high wattage cooking appliances. The EcoFlow Delta Max meets all my requirements. The Jackery 2000 is also a viable choice.
I went through all the trouble of installing a 1000w inverter to my 12v battery. I've found it is far more efficient and more cost-effective to use my power station vs my 12v inverted. When the inverter is on, pulling a lot of watts, the Prius engine runs significantly more and has also killed my 12v battery on two occasions. So I never use my 12v inverter anymore.
Also, for the owner of this channel. Try not to ever pull more than a 1000w from your 2000w inverter. A lot of discussion has been done on the Prius/Inverter topic on PriusChat. The general consensus was, it was unsafe and potentially catastrophic to pull more that a 1000w from the Prius 12v system. However, even with that said, it was still recommend to go with a 2000w inverter because it is more efficient at running 1000 watts vs a 1000w inverter.
Anyway, hope any of this was helpful or insightful. Best of wishes to both of you!
@@C4M3120N thanks so much for your advice! I do have a 2000w inverter and try to keep usage less than 1000w. Thinking of adding a second 12v (deep cycle marine battery) but haven’t decided for sure yet. It’s crazy how much you can do with these amazing little cars!
@@sweetoldbertha You are more than welcome. You're a Prius nomad, practically family, so don't mention it, lol.
Any sort of second battery setup would be highly recommended. It's really nice to have electricity when the Prius is off. Especially since you mentioned you struggled sleeping with the Prius on.
You certainly could go with a marine grade battery. They're typically lead acid though, incredibly heavy and can only provide you with half their rated power before their dead and need recharged. Meaning, for example, a 100ah lead acid battery will only provide you with 50ah of usable power before needing charged. I would recommend going with a LiFePO4 battery instead. They're typically smaller and lighter, safer, less toxic for you, last at least four times longer than lead acid batteries and best of all, you can use all 100ah of a 100ah LiFePO4 battery before it needs to be recharged. They cost more than lead acid batteries. So comparing a 100ah lead acid battery to a 100ah LiFePO4 battery, most people just think to go with the cheaper lead acid without understanding it would take two 100ah lead acid batteries to equal the capacity potential of one LiFePO4 battery.
If you never/very rarely charge your LiFePO4 battery above 80% and never discharge it below 20%, this keeps the battery healthy and very happy and it will provide you with power for the rest of your life and degrade over time very very slowly compared to all other mainstream battery chemistries. Also the top 20% of any lithium (LiFePO4 or Lithium-Ion) based battery takes just as long to charge the battery from 0%-80%. So you will save time, money and electricity/gasoline by only ever charging to 80%. Even if you don't follow that tip and charge to 100% and drain to 0%. A LiFePO4 battery will still outlast any lead acid battery by many years. Following that charging tip will further increase the LiFePO4 battery lifespan by at least four times. Some people don't choose LiFePO4 because a vehicles 12v can't fully charge a LiFePO4 battery. Only to about 80-90%. That turns some people off but I would like to redirect you to my previous comments about the benefits of not fully charging LiFePO4 that many people don't understand or haven't learned.
I'm not sure how much research you have done towards installing and charging any second battery. One piece of equipment you need for that setup to work and not drain your Prius 12v is something called a "Battery Isolator". It's a small electrical box that will connect your two batteries together. It facilitates the charging of a second battery. The box has brains! It will never pull power from your Prius 12v battery if the voltage is too low. Always making sure you have enough juice to start your Prius. Don't worry if it says for lead acid only, it will still work on LiFePO4 just fine. It just won't ever be able to charge your LiFePO4 to 100% but that's a good thing, remember ;)
I almost went the second battery route, which would have been with two 100ah LiFePO4 batteries. I opted for a portable power station instead. A 2000w capable portable power station has a definite sticker shock $1500-$2000. You're getting a lot packed into a take anywhere box (even to the picnic table away from the car). A 2000w inverter, a 2000wh battery, MPPT solar chage controller if you want to collect energy with solar panels, 12v cigarette port, AC wall outlets, USB ports all in a potable box. Mine is wired to my Prius 12v battery with a battery isolator. My refrigerator and my fan run 24/7 off of it and I also use mine to boil water with a hot water kettle along with keeping other small electronics charged up. You couldn't go wrong either way though. A second battey or a 2000w capable portable power station. With a second battery, lead acid or LiFePO4 or whatever. You would need two 100ah batteries to pull the full 2000w off them with your already owned 2000w inverter. One 100ah battery can safely support 1200w output. With a second battery, wire your inverter to the second battery. It would be healthier for your Prius 12v system. Also, don't get anything less than 100ah/1200wh. With space being at a premium in the Prius homestead. This is why I chose a portable power staion over a second larger battery. It would take me two 100ah batteies to have 2000w capabilities. Which is why I am also saving up for 2000w capable portable power station. To power an oven and range top for cooking in my Prius. The portable power station comes in the mail, you open the box, take it out, set it anywhere and turn it on. Being portable, it can also be charged anywhere. Typically from 0%-80% in an hour or hour and a half off an AC wall outlet. For example, like in a cafe or in the lounge of a Planet Fitness. ~$20 a month for unlimited hot water showers and hydro bed massages and access to every Planet Fitness worldwide if you haven't heard of it or considered it yet.
If you ever need any help with anything, don't hesitate to leave a question in your comments directed at me.
~Cameron.
@@C4M3120N thanks so much! May reach out to you with questions if I decide to upgrade power options.
I've been in my Prius for a year - rough though. I am working on making it more comfortable.
Your setup is pretty close to what I want to do, including a thetford porta potty
Would you share the dimensions and design of your platform?
Here’s the video I made about the build itself. Hope it helps! I researched the Thetford but don’t know if there’s a way to make it work in such a small space. Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions
th-cam.com/video/08Efg3ZbaI8/w-d-xo.htmlsi=tRSc0zwnn7aNFsCX
I really like your sink!
Can I ask your advice, please?
I'm planning a scion tC setup, so similar available space. She has a "sink". Would you consider this (around 13min mark) TH-cam title
"Her Van is the BEST No Build Minivan Camper Van Creation I’ve Seen"
It can stand up vertically at like 13"x13x4" when not in use. Unlike her permanent setup.
I haven't bought the container yet, since maybe I'd need the space, and your plastic container fits great in a car.
What do you think? :)
Thank you and safe travels!
The TH-cam video link didn’t transfer
interested in the WeatherTech window inserts. I did not see anything close to that on their website. Can you provide more information on what they are and where you got them??
I actually just made a video about them. I’ll try to get it posted this evening. This is a link to what I bought:
www.weathertech.com/toyota/2015/prius/sunshade/
@@sweetoldbertha thank you-- looking forward to it-- so the shade package includes the hatchback window and the little funky window below the spoiler?
@@jimsweeney1473 Yes, the kit includes shades for all 11 windows of the Prius. I actually just now got around to posting the video (should be live now) but it shows a lot more about the shades. Hope this helps!
Thanks for the info. I would love to know more about your power inverter and battery. Is that something you added to the Prius or did that come already installed?
The 12V battery is already part of the prius and is powered by the car's hybrid battery. I added the inverter which allows me to run small appliances. It is connected to the 12v battery.
Are you a full time car dweller?
Link for the weather tech window shades please
amzn.to/3Hzklsl
Hi how did you made the water dispenser button please
I just bought the dispenser off Amazon. Here’s the link. It’s honestly one of my best purchases for my Prius camper.
Water Bottle Dispenser Pump,... www.amazon.com/dp/B07PQV462G?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share
I camp in my Nissan Versa and I am 1/4inch to tall to lay flat.
With the passenger seat all the way forward, what is the length in back?
I’m really not sure. My bed is 24”x70”. I am short so I felt this was adequate for me. I didn’t push my passenger seat all the way forward for my build because I wanted to be able to accommodate a passenger comfortably. Being full time for a bit now, I’m seriously considering removing the passenger seat and extending the length of the bed. I would guess pushing the passenger seat all the way forward would give me maybe 10 more inches, but just an estimate.
Hi where can I get that thingy like your sink with automatic tap on please
amzn.to/3t0J04n
Can you tell me where you got the little heater at? Was at Walmart or Amazon
It was on Amazon. I have a link in the description. I think when I made the video, I couldn't really say much about how well it worked because I was in a warmer area. Now that I've used it through some cold nights, I can highly recommend it! Better than using the car's heat because it's warmer and also causes the car to start less often. Hope this helps!
@@sweetoldbertha yes it did help me a lot thank you so much happy travels 🙏♥️
@@shellyperez6707 Thanks! You too!
The reasons for vanlifing is to save money or paying rent would leave little left to live off of or to travel inexpensively or ? .... Which one are you ?
Oh such a good question! My reasons for being drawn to this lifestyle are mostly personal and spiritual, and include love of travel/nomad lifestyle and nature as well as living simply and humbly with few possessions. Also, living with minimal impact on the environment. The financial aspect definitely sweetens the deal!
A man can keep you warmer and safer.
Lol I HIGHLY doubt that!
@@sweetoldbertha Oh Bertha! lol
Hi guys do u know how to breathing in camper van when we sleep? I will be living on hyundai imax tomorrow 😄
I’m not sure what you mean?
Your parasympathetic nervous system will take care of it. You don't have to worry. 🤣
One question: WHY ?
Can you post a link for the toilet you got?
All the links are in the video description 😊
I am curious about how well you fit in the bed. can you tell me how tall you are? Nice set up. I am thinking of downsizing and looking for something with great gas mileage.
I am 5’2” and 125 lbs and fit quite comfortably. I could have pushed the passenger seat forward more to extend the bed length (or removed the passenger seat completely). But I wanted to still be able to have a passenger seat with adequate leg room for the times I have someone riding with me. There are taller folks camping in the Priuses as well, but I will say it is a very tight space.
Where did you get the lift installed?
I ordered the lift kit online and my mechanic installed it for me. He’d never installed one on a Prius lol.
I used Prius Offroad 3 inch lift kit....totally worth it.
@@bebelives did affect your mpg by much? I would have loved the extra clearance but was concerned it would affect fuel economy.
@@sweetoldbertha it did not...I still get in the mid 40s on the highway and low to mid 50s in the city. I don't miss working about bottoming out anymore.
Did either of you change your wheels and/or tires after lifting your Prius?
Find someone who has a Prius Prime......I need to know how to set up that car which has less area size, approx 7 cubic feet of storage less, due to battery.
th-cam.com/video/WMHwCVwwpB0/w-d-xo.html
What year prius do you have?
The video was made with my 2012 (my Bertha). She was sadly hit by lightning during the summer and replaced with a 2015.
@@sweetoldbertha cool 😎
@@sweetoldberthahow much better is the 2015?
9:42 where did you get that net?
@@stn7172 I actually liked my 2012 better. It didn't seem to have nearly as many issues. The 2015 I bought had a lot more miles on it though and wasn't well maintained like I kept my 2012.
I bought the net on Amazon. Here's the link... amzn.to/3QOZtAr
Why don't you get a used mini van for this? Looks way too small and cramped to do full time.
I used to live in a 17’ camper and wanted to go smaller. May eventually switch to a sienna hybrid or Prius v but this is enough for me for now 😊
Ya okay so when using that toilet
It can't flush, what's the point of it🤔🙄
What are you 3?
Still live like this?
On and off. Taking a break from nomadic life for now 😊
@@sweetoldbertha any reason for that?
@@pinkflamingo6073 Just taking a break. I usually head back to my home base towns for the holidays. This year, I'm sticking around a bit longer.
Blunt .... I always need a " pee" place. Where would one pee?
5:40 shows my toilet set up
😄 PЯӨMӨƧM