Great video. I have a 2006 Spirit Deluxe (my second Casita) like in this video, and I'm actually have plans to do some of the modifications you guys did because after seeing one new one with the grey interior, I'm painting all the doors, and getting rid of the window blinds. Was thinking of removing the wooden wall, but I like your modification better. Thank you.
I think you have convinced me to get a Casita! I recently retired and my wife and I want something to travel in. We have never owned an RV and after watching your Airstream videos I thought that was a great RV but expensive for us on a fixed income now...this would be great. I have already found a like new 2010 for $20k. I also really appreciate the detail on the remodel especially the bed modification with the memory foam mattress. Great idea. Enjoy your videos...Thanks!
That's awesome William! We absolutely loved the Casita and I know several people who live in them full-time. If you go that route, I hope you both highly enjoy it!
My wife and I recently sold our 2006 Spirit Deluxe travel trailer after 12 yrs of camping with it. Its been great, we are only upgrading to as new as possible Casita SD before spring. Perhaps a 2018-21 and loaded as possible with options. Our old Casita was pretty much optioned out except for no solar. Hoping to get solar as well when we buy again.
Hah, I saw this trailer when it was for sale and wasn’t quite ready to buy but loved the updates. Funny to see the full tour on TH-cam now. You guys did a great job. Love all the details. Good luck with the adventures.
Newbie to Rv’n. First go at a travel trailer and a used casita was available. I did one little walk through a Jayco. And I knew the casita had the build I want, the look I think of when I think of a travel trailer…. It’s almost like the VW bus is what a casita is on the road for a travel trailer…. I mean i say that inky because I used to own a 73. And the 🤙🏼 and 👍🏻 and 😱 are similar lol . Great video. Thanks
Beautiful! What you’ve done is so impressive. I know what a 2022 Spirit Deluxe looks like, and while it’s attractive, your renovations make the Casita an even more enviable camper. Thanks for explaining so thoroughly each thing you did in a job well done. I envy the new owners!
We had a Casita a few years ago and loved it. We actually sold it as we had a deal on a 2008 Basecamp. A little more basic than the new ones but still very cool. Unfortunately the deal fell thru once we had a deal on the Casita. We have considered getting a brand new Casita as I love the new interior and the price but I really love the Basecamp and my wife really enjoyed being a part of the Airstream club. We met so many really nice people. You guys did a great job on the Casita. I did mine similar and sold it in a day.
Cass, we sold the Casita for the 08 Basecamp but when that deal fell thru we bought a lightweight aluminum tent trailer to have something in the short term. We plan to sell our house next year and buy a Basecamp.
Hey Michael, big thumbs up supporting your significant other in time of great need. I look forward to next hearing the Great news in sealing the deal dude!👍💍
Great tour and excellent job explaining the modifications. Loved that your sock match the bedspread. Wishing you a speedy recovery with your eye surgery. Safe travels!
Great video. Lots of great ideas. Actually stole your idea of the cutting board counter extension. We have a flush cook top so our cutting board actually folds flat on top of the cook top. No need for the door stop. We decided to put one of those pads that soak up dish rinse water in between the top and the board to protect both the cook top as well as the cutting board. Thanks again for the idea.
So glad to see you're recuperating. I've seen so many TH-cam videos of other RV's, trailers, including Scamps, and Casitas as well. (They're made in Texas, you know) :-) But ever since I saw your BaseCamp...well the others just seem so....um...how can I put this...CHEAP, hahaha. And a sink in the shower area is not necessary when you have a sink in the kitchen! It's in the way in the shower. The thing I love about the BaseCamp is the kitchen. I love the wrap-around sink/counter space. At any rate, thanks for the video and don't get out there too soon, take care of those eyes, they're the only ones you'll ever have, yanno., lol Take care, kiddo!
Thank you so much George!! And you are right, the windows in the Basecamp are kind of unparalleled in the small RV market. Although, personally would love a sink in my shower!
great Video thanx! Im just tackling a full battery, charger controller etc upgrade in a week, but after... The blinds and cabinet doors! I love how you guys did the curtain rods! Any chance or have link, order list anything for the curtains... im terrible with that😮 Thanx and happy RVing. Clay D
Great tour and awesome renovations! Looking to buy a caistas for a long time now, but I'm not going for a new trailer. Baseline costs have increased and I love videos like this to see what amenities can be modded.
Seems like you might have stumbled on a side gig. Remodeling RV's...if you like doing that. Haha. Great job on it! Love that dining table!! Big sized bathroom for me to smash my head against after recovering from hitting the top of the door on the way in....6 feet dangers. LOL Think you'll do some "things I want/need" projects with the Basecamp that you haven't already? I like that carpeting on the wall/ceiling idea. Maybe not for the Basecamp...but definitely a better insulator and feel if you roll against it while sleeping. For me...Fairfield Inn is camping. LOL
Hahah! You are so right. I don't know how many times we've hit our head on that front door. So easy to forget to duck inside. I'll definitely do some videos on that for the Basecamp. My new tire pressure monitor system just came in today, so plan to do an installation video for that. Something I've been wanting for awhile now and finally splurged for it.
Always enjoy your videos you are always very thorough how you explain everything. That casita would fit inside my 39 foot fifth wheel 🤣✌🏼🤙🏼. Safe travels my dear 🌹
That vent is where cold air goes into the furnace, the hot air comes out of the front of the furnace but you are correct, you can't block it. The Airstream is still prettier but I love the fact that the storage in my Casita can be locked to keep the contents in place. I see you have put baskets in your netting carriers to do the same thing but I think (maybe) I have more storage. The Basecamp 16x is what the 20x SHOULD be but I think they have dropped the ball by replacing the forward kitchen with a large "booth". A longer 20x configured like the 16x would attract my $ (potentially, I still love my Casita, it may be dated, as am I, but i am open to change). Keep safe!
Great tip! The only time we had to drill in was for the 12V plug. All the other renovations were designed to not touch the fiberglass. Appreciate you watching!
We also have a 17’Casita Freedom Deluxe in addition to our Bambi (which we just purchased). One of the negatives with our FD is we have swivel captain chairs which would love to change to the bench. Also loved the removal of the wall beneath the table. Thank you for sharing the ideas and updates Love your videos oh and my niece has a dog who could be Jasper’s twin brother -floppy ear and all He over to travel with her also
Interesting you feel the swivel seats are a negative and want to change to bench. Why do you feel the swivel seats are a negative? It seems the cushy swivel seats would be a super nice item to have on protracted trips and/or where there are instances of inclement weather where one needs to spend a lot of time inside. Your comments appreciated!
@@richarde1355 The captain hair which is closest to the bed makes it very tight when at the stove or sink area. This chair protrudes a little further out than the other plus it seems to be tilted forward just a bit. Also. There is not way that we will be able to take a grandchild with us as no place to sleep which was poor planning on our part. I just don’t think that the chairs are that much more comfortable than the bench that would warrant the trade off of additional sleeping area as we thought when we made the decision. Definitely would not opt now for the chairs
@@missykay8346 That's interesting. I just purchased a month ago a Freedom Deluxe set up just the way you want it to be (where you can add a bed for a grandchild) from a couple who set it up that way - to accommodate their grandchild. I went the exact opposite of the direction you want to go - I took out the boxes, as there is only my girlfriend and me, and we don't have a need for that extra bed and prefer the cushy swivel seats. The former owners left the swivel seat pedestals in place and used them as support for the boxes. Plywood boxes were framed around the pedestals, with the pedestals as the centerpoint for each box, and then a top brace on each box then bolted to its respective pedestal. This kept the boxes in place. Removable back and seat cushions were then placed on the boxes. Those boxes were in SOLID. For a bed the owners then used a plywood piece, then placed a cushion on top, for the bed. A pretty cool setup, but the swivel seats are a better use for me, so the cushions and the boxes are store in my garage for now.
Great renovation job.....and so great to have you back posting again. You put a great perspective to the to RV aspect and Michael's woodworking skills make me want to spend more time in my workshop!
Winter here, and southern Australia and the south east in particular, are about to get an antarctic weather blast in about six hours. Where I live will just be very chilly, nothing like North American weather but still cold. Snow down to 600 metres. It is winter, but people still complain when it’s too cold. Additionally, we’re in lockdown #5 so can’t travel more than five kilometres from home.
Oh wow, interesting to hear that you are in that strict of a lockdown. Always funny that our seasons are opposite, it's sometimes hard to comprehend. Stay warm! Hope the Antarctic blast isn't too cold!
I think the Casita has more space and the separate table is nicer. But it has a much smaller bed. I personally prefer the Basecamp when it's just me. When it is my boyfriend and I, the Casita was much easier.
Hi there. This was an excellent remodel and tour indeed. Individuals or Casita Spirit Deluxe can take a lesson from you two to update their older models for enjoyment or resale. I like the carpeted wall ideas. Any comments on the stove functions?
@@TailsofWanderlust IIRC, after the fire (January 2006) at the Scamp factory (Backus, MN), they broke from their past -- HAD to make new fiberglass molds for their fiberglass shells -- and took that opportunity to make ceiling heights taller, whereas Casita remains stuck in the past ("we've always done it this way" -- yeah, but it's 2021 for gosh sake!) -- including their original lower-ceiling design. I'm unhappy with BOTH companies though because they still refuse to "get with the program" and offer at least ONE model geared to off-road use, meaning a much sturdier frame, axle and off-road tires. More people are into overlanding nowadays, but as in ALL segments of the RV industry, the makers/designers don't keep up with these trends. They're VERY slow to respond (IF at all). But as said, at least I can stand up in a Scamp. ;-) So since that fire, Scamps are 6'3" interior-height while MOST of the Casitas are 5'10" -- I think their larger trailer is 6'1" but to me, that's STILL too low. So no thanks on the Casita (for that and other reasons) -- I'd choose a Scamp instead. And, if I wanted a bit more room than a 16, AND had a truck I could put a fifth-wheel ("5er") hitch in the bed, I might well go for the Scamp 19 (a 5er), something Casita doesn't offer. 5ers are easier to tow, give you more interior space, AND pretty much the same length overall (meaning towing vehicle plus trailer = total length) on the road as towing their 16' trailers. The 19 Scamp 5er seems a win-win to me -- IF you already have a pickup truck/bed and you don't mind a 5er hitch being mounted in it. And like used Casitas, Scamp ALSO is an in-demand TT when it comes time for resale, and used ones of either brand that come up for sale don't sit around very long waiting for buyers. -- BR
Love your channel thanks. I saw some new RVs that made me remember how you said your basecamp was the only good choice at the time for something that didn't didn't look too RV, and this is a big driver to me too - - what might be a great topic for you - I know I would love to hear - is whether today's options would've changed your mind - - I saw these InTech Sol and Terra Oasis and thought of you instantly and wondered whether you would have chosen over Basecamp (which I am on the list for) Thanks :)
That's a great idea! Hoping that someday there will be RV shows again so I can go check some of these new ones out in person. Haven't been to one in over 4 years now.
This is very nice! As far as towing payload is concerned, which weighs more, the Casita or the Basecamp? Does the Basecamp or the Casita have a bigger freshwater tank?
Did you just buy it to renovate it and sell it? I have been watching all your videos and thought you only lived in the Basecamp and the truck campers. Love your content. You have really inspired me. I'm torn between a Casita SD and a Basecamp!
We bought this for my boyfriend so he could travel along with me. But in the end, a wheel ended up coming off (bad bearings), and he really didn't enjoy towing. So we ended up selling it for that reason. I lived in the Basecamp for 4 years, really didn't use the Casita much. It's a hard choice between the two! I'd say biggest thing I'd personally consider is that the bed in the Casita is much smaller than the Basecamp, but you have a separate table which is a huge benefit. Fewer windows in the Casita, the Basecamp has that whole front window setup. The Casita has also been around much longer, so you can find a good variety of ages and price ranges on it.
I tow mine with a Honda Civic. I can get 26 MPG at 55 MPH. Not too many RVs can do that. I keep the weight minimal. The generator has to ride in the car.
I enjoyed the video - but the loose cushion covers ruined the sleek 'lines' of the RV for me. Wonderful updates and certainly liked the sock/bed cover match!.
The “wall” between the front dinette and back bed is not structural. It is just a backrest for the dinette bench. Lots of Casita owners take it all the way out.
You guys did an amazing job. I really like the idea of fiberglass. I don't know why they aren't more popular. It doesn't need the strength of a boat hull. Have you made a video of the new truck camper? I haven't seen a travel video with Michael. Is Michael a real person or an imaginary friend? I had an imaginary friend when I was little. I just saying
Haha! Many people ask if he is imaginary :). He doesn't like the limelight but he is in a couple videos briefly. He's one of the guys standing on the bumper in the utility bumper video and also is in the meal planning video. Haven't made a video on the truck camper yet, but that is in my backlog of videos to edit so hopefully soon!
@@TailsofWanderlust thanks, my jokes get me into trouble. I understand why he doesn't like to be on YT. I could never put my life out there like you. I hope one day all of us meet on the road and we can hike after our dogs slowly become friends. Does Michael have a dog too?
@@TailsofWanderlust would you and your boyfriend maybe do a tour of the new camper, so viewers can match between the new one and the Casita that he sold?
So, as much as I "pooh pooh" the Casita, it's genuinely a long lasting and cozy lil camper. 17' is a pretty small space, but- note the wet bath, the full size bed and the amenities. Shag carpeting always was a thumbs down from me, even if I do understand the why of it. Nice job, looks great and I'm sure that a LiFePO4 battery & modest inverter will be next!
Well, to be fair the carpet is not shag but marine grade polypropylene broadloom. In other words, it doesn't mildew and it doesn't smell (at least mine doesn't after 5 years).
@@richardhouvener6423 I also know it's not shag...I remember the 1970s -- great decade (actually, 1965-75 was, for ME). ;-) But that lining Casita uses IS called rat-fur in common-usage (but I'm sure Casita doesn't call it that!): A thin "fuzzy" material. Shag is entirely different (as you know). Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make a Colorado Bulldog, followed by a Tequila Sunrise. Cheers, -- BR
I really like all the mods you made to your Spirit Deluxe. Nice job! We also have a Spirit Deluxe, 2019. I was curious what brand of mattress you got for the bed. We got a 3 inch piece of memory foam, which we cut to fit. While not expensive, It is difficult to move around on because we would tend to sink down into it so far. It is very difficult for the person in the back to get out, especially if someone else is in the bed at the time. Once settled in, on my side, it is comfortable to sleep on. Have you had any of those problems with the mattress you had? Was it finished with cloth, or just bare foam?
Hi! We only slept on the mattress a few times until we sold it. I do have a memory foam in my Basecamp which I do really love. Here is all the info if you are interested: th-cam.com/video/XeeU3m3e-cM/w-d-xo.html
[RVTrader.com](RVTrader.com) or check out different facebook groups/forums. A lot of times there are groups for specific models and it's a great way to find exactly what you want.
I hope his truck is capable (payload capacity) of carrying a truck-camper. Many of them are insanely-heavy even EMPTY (dry weight), then are overloaded by owners to where it's more wear & tear on their trucks, not to mention unsafe on the road. If I already had a big heavy-duty truck, I'd be looking at truck-campers also...but I don't so would have to buy a truck as well as the truck-camper! Both together would be a bit too pricey at the moment (like buying a Class B campervan ~$100K or so, if lucky). Happy trails, -- BR
You are right on point Bill. It's very easy to go over the payload on the trucks. We are looking at light weight off-road style ones (wedge or pop-up) due to that payload concern. Even the light ones still require some upgrades to the suspension (air bags, etc.) in order to support it. Still in research mode on models, but I'll post the info once we set one up.
@@TailsofWanderlust Well, as long as he's not going to be carrying a "Mammoth" (by Host Industries) model 11-6 (19'3" overall length) truck-camper -- 3,995lbs EMPTY! -- then I guess it'll be okay... ;-) Lance's 1172 is nice, but it weighs 4175lbs empty! FEW trucks could safely carry one EMPTY, let alone LOADED. Outrageous! BTW, Cirrus (by NuCamp, which also makes the T@B TTs such as the 320 and 400) are high-quality truck-campers also. Their largest one is the 820 @ 2916lbs empty. And don't forget the other quality truck-camper brands, Arctic Fox & Big Foot -- both also 4-Season rated (IIRC). And again, sell quickly IF you can find one. Speaking of truck-campers in general, I've found it absolutely incredible HOW BIG these larger truck-campers feel when inside them compared to looking at them from OUTSIDE as they look so small. They remind me of my TARDIS... -- Dr. Who
Hi whatcha up to hope all is well keep walking tall sending up prayers 4 healing and 4 unspoken and bless great healthy peaceful safe journeys travels recovery and happy camping also prayers 4 everyone in the name of the Creator God and Jesus and the Holy Ghost Amen much honor and respect cool casita 🚌⛺🌅🌌🌄🏞 👍👍💪🙂👍👍
@@TailsofWanderlust ur welcome always keep walking tall and bless great healthy peaceful safe journeys and travels also prayers 4 healing and unspoken also 4 everyone in the name of the Creator God and Jesus and the Holy Ghost Amen much honor and respect enjoy ur videos keep on keeping on 🚌⛺🌅🌌🌄🏞 👍👍💪🙂👍👍
That curtain tip was worth gold. Thanks!!
Good! Glad it was helpful!
You did a great job. It looks amazing. Thanks for sharing.
Love it! You are the reno queen!!! Looks fantastic!
Thank you so much!
Brilliant cutting board/stove cover. I'm stealing that design!
Thank you!! Hope you enjoy it!
Great video. I have a 2006 Spirit Deluxe (my second Casita) like in this video, and I'm actually have plans to do some of the modifications you guys did because after seeing one new one with the grey interior, I'm painting all the doors, and getting rid of the window blinds. Was thinking of removing the wooden wall, but I like your modification better.
Thank you.
Nice Job. Incredible that these have increased in value 20 percent only this past 4 months.
Yea the market on these is insane right now!
I think you have convinced me to get a Casita! I recently retired and my wife and I want something to travel in. We have never owned an RV and after watching your Airstream videos I thought that was a great RV but expensive for us on a fixed income now...this would be great. I have already found a like new 2010 for $20k. I also really appreciate the detail on the remodel especially the bed modification with the memory foam mattress. Great idea. Enjoy your videos...Thanks!
That's awesome William! We absolutely loved the Casita and I know several people who live in them full-time. If you go that route, I hope you both highly enjoy it!
That's the RV I'm looking at for my retirement. Thanks for the video.
Great RV to choose. Glad you enjoyed the video!
One of the nicest renovations I've seen
Thank you very much!
@@TailsofWanderlust wish I had one like it
Nice work refurbishing the Casita. It now has a nice updated look which the new owner will appreciate!
They definitely did! Drove all the way from AZ for it. Thanks for watching!
What a wonderful RV.
Thanks!
Much better than a Basecamp! Put some nets on the ceiling if you think the Basecamp looks good.
Very very cute. Would love to try it out for a week or two.
You always explain things so well. I love listening to you. Will we get a tour of Michael’s truck camper when it’s ready?
Absolutely! We are still shopping around at this point, but will work on that in the future. Thanks Ruth!
This is so cute. Thank you for sharing all the details. I'd be interested in seeing Michael's truck camper once that's ready, too.
I’ll definitely do a video once we pick one. Still researching and looking right now, they can just be hard to find. Thanks for watching!
My wife and I recently sold our 2006 Spirit Deluxe travel trailer after 12 yrs of camping with it. Its been great, we are only upgrading to as new as possible Casita SD before spring. Perhaps a 2018-21 and loaded as possible with options. Our old Casita was pretty much optioned out except for no solar. Hoping to get solar as well when we buy again.
The solar is amazing. Thanks for watching!
Good job on your renovation!
Thank you!
We had the same Casita for about 4 years...loved it! and love your renovations!
Thank you very much Mark! Glad you enjoyed your Casita!
Great job! I have a 2008 Liberty Deluxe & have done some of the same things. You have given me a few more ideas!
Right on!
Its so cool to see how the renovations are done by regular people. Very informative thank you!
Thanks for checking this video out as well Chelsea!
Hah, I saw this trailer when it was for sale and wasn’t quite ready to buy but loved the updates. Funny to see the full tour on TH-cam now. You guys did a great job. Love all the details. Good luck with the adventures.
That's too funny! Thanks Chris!
You clearly have many talents. Great job Cass.
Thank you Donald!!
Newbie to Rv’n. First go at a travel trailer and a used casita was available. I did one little walk through a Jayco. And I knew the casita had the build I want, the look I think of when I think of a travel trailer…. It’s almost like the VW bus is what a casita is on the road for a travel trailer…. I mean i say that inky because I used to own a 73. And the 🤙🏼 and 👍🏻 and 😱 are similar lol . Great video. Thanks
Enjoy the Casita!
Love the window cover solution!
Thank you! That was one of my favorite as well. Appreciate you watching!
Very nice for something so small.
Absolutely, they do a great job with them. Thanks for watching!
Beautiful! What you’ve done is so impressive. I know what a 2022 Spirit Deluxe looks like, and while it’s attractive, your renovations make the Casita an even more enviable camper. Thanks for explaining so thoroughly each thing you did in a job well done. I envy the new owners!
Thank you so much! Appreciate you checking out the video!
Very cute camper! The new owners are very lucky to have scored this Gem.
Thank you Kylie!
Wowza. Well done with many inventive ideas. You two must work well together
Thank you so much Janet! A lot of negotiation hah!
Congratulations! You made this trailer into one of the nicest Casitas ever! Like the paint job, the curtains.
Thank you so much, really appreciate that!
Very interesting video, on the Casita trailer. Thanks for sharing this.
You're welcome, Appreciate you checking out the video Mark!
We had a Casita a few years ago and loved it. We actually sold it as we had a deal on a 2008 Basecamp. A little more basic than the new ones but still very cool. Unfortunately the deal fell thru once we had a deal on the Casita. We have considered getting a brand new Casita as I love the new interior and the price but I really love the Basecamp and my wife really enjoyed being a part of the Airstream club. We met so many really nice people. You guys did a great job on the Casita. I did mine similar and sold it in a day.
Amazing how fast campers are selling nowadays. Glad you were able to sell yours in the end. Do you now have the newer or older Basecamp model?
Cass, we sold the Casita for the 08 Basecamp but when that deal fell thru we bought a lightweight aluminum tent trailer to have something in the short term. We plan to sell our house next year and buy a Basecamp.
Good luck on the transition! It must be nice to have such a light trailer in the interim.
5.7 feet and you fit perfectly now I can imagine me I have lots of room I'm 5ft lol!!! I always enjoy your videos thank you!!!!
You are very welcome!! So glad you are enjoying!
Yes to the indoor bathroom.
It's the best!
Great renovation
Thank you!
You guys did a very nice job on your trailer be blessed and happy traveling
Thanks Dominic! Appreciate that.
You’re welcome have a nice day
You too!
Hey Michael, big thumbs up supporting your significant other in time of great need.
I look forward to next hearing the Great news in sealing the deal dude!👍💍
Haha I let him know James. He was amazing support during my recovery!
Beautiful table. WOW!
Thank you!
Great tour and excellent job explaining the modifications. Loved that your sock match the bedspread. Wishing you a speedy recovery with your eye surgery. Safe travels!
Thank you Eileen!!
Groovy. Great updates. Thanks for sharing
You’re welcome. Appreciate you watching!
Great video. Lots of great ideas. Actually stole your idea of the cutting board counter extension. We have a flush cook top so our cutting board actually folds flat on top of the cook top. No need for the door stop. We decided to put one of those pads that soak up dish rinse water in between the top and the board to protect both the cook top as well as the cutting board. Thanks again for the idea.
That is awesome! Thank you so much for watching, Rick.
Excellent tour 👏👌my friend. 👍
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
So glad to see you're recuperating. I've seen so many TH-cam videos of other RV's, trailers, including Scamps, and Casitas as well. (They're made in Texas, you know) :-) But ever since I saw your BaseCamp...well the others just seem so....um...how can I put this...CHEAP, hahaha. And a sink in the shower area is not necessary when you have a sink in the kitchen! It's in the way in the shower. The thing I love about the BaseCamp is the kitchen. I love the wrap-around sink/counter space. At any rate, thanks for the video and don't get out there too soon, take care of those eyes, they're the only ones you'll ever have, yanno., lol Take care, kiddo!
Thank you so much George!! And you are right, the windows in the Basecamp are kind of unparalleled in the small RV market. Although, personally would love a sink in my shower!
great Video thanx! Im just tackling a full battery, charger controller etc upgrade in a week, but after...
The blinds and cabinet doors! I love how you guys did the curtain rods! Any chance or have link, order list anything for the curtains... im terrible with that😮
Thanx and happy RVing. Clay D
Yes how hard was it to hook up the 12 volt charging station to the Casita and where did you have to run the wires too I have a 2012
Thank you for the tour and The Casita looks amazing. Safe travels
Thank you very much Patti!
Very Nice 😀👍🙋♀️
Thank you!
Great tour and awesome renovations!
Looking to buy a caistas for a long time now, but I'm not going for a new trailer. Baseline costs have increased and I love videos like this to see what amenities can be modded.
If you find one in good shape, it's amazing what you can do to them. Thanks for watching!
Well done! Loved the curtain rod mount, really nice touch.
Thanks Jutt! Agree with you that was one of my favorite parts as well.
Seems like you might have stumbled on a side gig. Remodeling RV's...if you like doing that. Haha. Great job on it! Love that dining table!! Big sized bathroom for me to smash my head against after recovering from hitting the top of the door on the way in....6 feet dangers. LOL Think you'll do some "things I want/need" projects with the Basecamp that you haven't already? I like that carpeting on the wall/ceiling idea. Maybe not for the Basecamp...but definitely a better insulator and feel if you roll against it while sleeping.
For me...Fairfield Inn is camping. LOL
Hahah! You are so right. I don't know how many times we've hit our head on that front door. So easy to forget to duck inside. I'll definitely do some videos on that for the Basecamp. My new tire pressure monitor system just came in today, so plan to do an installation video for that. Something I've been wanting for awhile now and finally splurged for it.
Thanks for the great video! We have a Casita on order. This was super helpful! :)
That's really exciting. Congrats on the new Casita!
Always enjoy your videos you are always very thorough how you explain everything. That casita would fit inside my 39 foot fifth wheel 🤣✌🏼🤙🏼. Safe travels my dear 🌹
Haha, that it would! Thanks for watching Mark!
That vent is where cold air goes into the furnace, the hot air comes out of the front of the furnace but you are correct, you can't block it. The Airstream is still prettier but I love the fact that the storage in my Casita can be locked to keep the contents in place. I see you have put baskets in your netting carriers to do the same thing but I think (maybe) I have more storage. The Basecamp 16x is what the 20x SHOULD be but I think they have dropped the ball by replacing the forward kitchen with a large "booth". A longer 20x configured like the 16x would attract my $ (potentially, I still love my Casita, it may be dated, as am I, but i am open to change). Keep safe!
Thanks Richard! Glad you are enjoying your Casita. We really did love this one, they are such a good RV. Appreciate you watching!
I have a Scamp. Love it! I’m sure you did this but drilling into the fiberglass you should brace with wood on the inside. Great renovation!
Great tip! The only time we had to drill in was for the 12V plug. All the other renovations were designed to not touch the fiberglass. Appreciate you watching!
@@TailsofWanderlust how did you attach the braces for the cutting board if not through fiberglass?
Ah you are right! Forgot about those. And we actually left the wood behind there as well so that the screw had something to hold onto.
We also have a 17’Casita Freedom Deluxe in addition to our Bambi (which we just purchased). One of the negatives with our FD is we have swivel captain chairs which would love to change to the bench. Also loved the removal of the wall beneath the table. Thank you for sharing the ideas and updates Love your videos oh and my niece has a dog who could be Jasper’s twin brother -floppy ear and all He over to travel with her also
Love that there is a Jasper twin out there! Those floppy ears are the best. Thanks for watching Missy!
Interesting you feel the swivel seats are a negative and want to change to bench. Why do you feel the swivel seats are a negative? It seems the cushy swivel seats would be a super nice item to have on protracted trips and/or where there are instances of inclement weather where one needs to spend a lot of time inside. Your comments appreciated!
@@richarde1355 The captain hair which is closest to the bed makes it very tight when at the stove or sink area. This chair protrudes a little further out than the other plus it seems to be tilted forward just a bit. Also. There is not way that we will be able to take a grandchild with us as no place to sleep which was poor planning on our part. I just don’t think that the chairs are that much more comfortable than the bench that would warrant the trade off of additional sleeping area as we thought when we made the decision. Definitely would not opt now for the chairs
@@missykay8346 That's interesting. I just purchased a month ago a Freedom Deluxe set up just the way you want it to be (where you can add a bed for a grandchild) from a couple who set it up that way - to accommodate their grandchild. I went the exact opposite of the direction you want to go - I took out the boxes, as there is only my girlfriend and me, and we don't have a need for that extra bed and prefer the cushy swivel seats.
The former owners left the swivel seat pedestals in place and used them as support for the boxes. Plywood boxes were framed around the pedestals, with the pedestals as the centerpoint for each box, and then a top brace on each box then bolted to its respective pedestal. This kept the boxes in place. Removable back and seat cushions were then placed on the boxes. Those boxes were in SOLID. For a bed the owners then used a plywood piece, then placed a cushion on top, for the bed.
A pretty cool setup, but the swivel seats are a better use for me, so the cushions and the boxes are store in my garage for now.
Nice upgrades! 🤗
Thank you!
Great renovation job.....and so great to have you back posting again. You put a great perspective to the to RV aspect and Michael's woodworking skills make me want to spend more time in my workshop!
Thank you very much Mark! Hope you get back into that workshop soon!
Love it....so nice.
Thank you Darin!
let's see his new truck camper :)
We will definitely share once he gets it! Still in the shopping stage.
Would you be able to tell me where you purchased the cushion covers? Or Amazon link. Thanks
Sure! Here you go: White Cushion Covers: amzn.to/3eOfWmg
like the basecamp more
Although very similar size, very different trailers indeed. Thanks for watching!
Awesome.
👍 Thanks for watching!
I'm looking forward to seeing your boyfriend's new camper on his truck.
I'll do a tour once we figure it out! Debating between wedge style or pop up style.
Beautiful rebuild! Great little trailer - thanks for the video!!
Thank you very much, appreciate that!
Did u put the lights up.
It would be nice to have a tour of the one he gets.
Hi Liza - absolutely I can do a tour once he gets one. We are still in the shopping/research stage currently.
Welcome back. How is your summer going?
Thank you! Relaxing as I'm not able to do much. Hope your summer is going well!
Winter here, and southern Australia and the south east in particular, are about to get an antarctic weather blast in about six hours. Where I live will just be very chilly, nothing like North American weather but still cold. Snow down to 600 metres. It is winter, but people still complain when it’s too cold. Additionally, we’re in lockdown #5 so can’t travel more than five kilometres from home.
Oh wow, interesting to hear that you are in that strict of a lockdown. Always funny that our seasons are opposite, it's sometimes hard to comprehend. Stay warm! Hope the Antarctic blast isn't too cold!
Thank you for sharing!
Absolutely. Thanks for watching!
Hey Cass! Do you like the Casita better than the basecamp? Which one do you think has more space?
I think the Casita has more space and the separate table is nicer. But it has a much smaller bed. I personally prefer the Basecamp when it's just me. When it is my boyfriend and I, the Casita was much easier.
@@TailsofWanderlust Good to know. Thanks!
Anytime!
Hi there. This was an excellent remodel and tour indeed. Individuals or Casita Spirit Deluxe can take a lesson from you two to update their older models for enjoyment or resale. I like the carpeted wall ideas. Any comments on the stove functions?
Thank you Ramona! It is a small stovetop, so you can only use smaller pans. But we used a 10" cast iron skillet on there, and it cooked very well.
Nice, I now may look into getting a Casitas instead of a Basecamp! 😁
Casitas are really amazing trailers as well!
I'd need a Scamp instead of a Casita...I can stand up in the Scamp. :-)
-- BR
I'm not familiar with the size of the Scamps. A few friends have them, but I don't recall them being much taller on the inside.
@@TailsofWanderlust IIRC, after the fire (January 2006) at the Scamp factory (Backus, MN), they broke from their past -- HAD to make new fiberglass molds for their fiberglass shells -- and took that opportunity to make ceiling heights taller, whereas Casita remains stuck in the past ("we've always done it this way" -- yeah, but it's 2021 for gosh sake!) -- including their original lower-ceiling design.
I'm unhappy with BOTH companies though because they still refuse to "get with the program" and offer at least ONE model geared to off-road use, meaning a much sturdier frame, axle and off-road tires. More people are into overlanding nowadays, but as in ALL segments of the RV industry, the makers/designers don't keep up with these trends. They're VERY slow to respond (IF at all).
But as said, at least I can stand up in a Scamp. ;-)
So since that fire, Scamps are 6'3" interior-height while MOST of the Casitas are 5'10" -- I think their larger trailer is 6'1" but to me, that's STILL too low.
So no thanks on the Casita (for that and other reasons) -- I'd choose a Scamp instead.
And, if I wanted a bit more room than a 16, AND had a truck I could put a fifth-wheel ("5er") hitch in the bed, I might well go for the Scamp 19 (a 5er), something Casita doesn't offer. 5ers are easier to tow, give you more interior space, AND pretty much the same length overall (meaning towing vehicle plus trailer = total length) on the road as towing their 16' trailers. The 19 Scamp 5er seems a win-win to me -- IF you already have a pickup truck/bed and you don't mind a 5er hitch being mounted in it.
And like used Casitas, Scamp ALSO is an in-demand TT when it comes time for resale, and used ones of either brand that come up for sale don't sit around very long waiting for buyers.
-- BR
@@billredding2000 😵💫
Love your channel thanks. I saw some new RVs that made me remember how you said your basecamp was the only good choice at the time for something that didn't didn't look too RV, and this is a big driver to me too - - what might be a great topic for you - I know I would love to hear - is whether today's options would've changed your mind - - I saw these InTech Sol and Terra Oasis and thought of you instantly and wondered whether you would have chosen over Basecamp (which I am on the list for) Thanks :)
That's a great idea! Hoping that someday there will be RV shows again so I can go check some of these new ones out in person. Haven't been to one in over 4 years now.
hello hope ur recovery is not to bad and gets better, i love the table... what epoxy did you use? thx
Hi! Here is the epoxy we use: amzn.to/3ymTCrE
Im stuck on getting a small travel trailer (like the Casita) and truck camper. I'm curious why he decided to switch.
He did not enjoy towing at all. That is his main reason. He actually loved the Casita itself.
This is very nice! As far as towing payload is concerned, which weighs more, the Casita or the Basecamp? Does the Basecamp or the Casita have a bigger freshwater tank?
It depends on what model you end up with and what options. For us, the Basecamp had a bigger water tank but weighed more
Did you just buy it to renovate it and sell it? I have been watching all your videos and thought you only lived in the Basecamp and the truck campers. Love your content. You have really inspired me. I'm torn between a Casita SD and a Basecamp!
We bought this for my boyfriend so he could travel along with me. But in the end, a wheel ended up coming off (bad bearings), and he really didn't enjoy towing. So we ended up selling it for that reason. I lived in the Basecamp for 4 years, really didn't use the Casita much. It's a hard choice between the two! I'd say biggest thing I'd personally consider is that the bed in the Casita is much smaller than the Basecamp, but you have a separate table which is a huge benefit. Fewer windows in the Casita, the Basecamp has that whole front window setup. The Casita has also been around much longer, so you can find a good variety of ages and price ranges on it.
Any idea on the trailer weight and/or the minimum vehicle you need to pull it?
Roughly 2750 dry weight. The 4Runner towed it very well, so anything that can support the GVW and tongue weight would work fine.
@@TailsofWanderlust Thanks. And Prayers for a quick recovery from your surgery.
Appreciate it!
I tow mine with a Honda Civic. I can get 26 MPG at 55 MPH. Not too many RVs can do that. I keep the weight minimal. The generator has to ride in the car.
I enjoyed the video - but the loose cushion covers ruined the sleek 'lines' of the RV for me. Wonderful updates and certainly liked the sock/bed cover match!.
I can see where they would do that. Thanks for watching Sue!
Before I bought my Basecamp I tried to find a used Casita. Hard to find and they sell quick. Nice trailers.
They really are. And they hold their value very well.
The “wall” between the front dinette and back bed is not structural. It is just a backrest for the dinette bench. Lots of Casita owners take it all the way out.
Interesting
How do you take it out?
You guys did an amazing job. I really like the idea of fiberglass. I don't know why they aren't more popular. It doesn't need the strength of a boat hull. Have you made a video of the new truck camper? I haven't seen a travel video with Michael. Is Michael a real person or an imaginary friend? I had an imaginary friend when I was little. I just saying
I hope you know that I'm joking. I like the cartoon drawing of Jasper that you use for your thumbnail
Haha! Many people ask if he is imaginary :). He doesn't like the limelight but he is in a couple videos briefly. He's one of the guys standing on the bumper in the utility bumper video and also is in the meal planning video. Haven't made a video on the truck camper yet, but that is in my backlog of videos to edit so hopefully soon!
Thanks! That was designed by a fellow RVer.
@@TailsofWanderlust thanks, my jokes get me into trouble. I understand why he doesn't like to be on YT. I could never put my life out there like you. I hope one day all of us meet on the road and we can hike after our dogs slowly become friends. Does Michael have a dog too?
Have you thought about a mtb? My dogs,bikes and motorcycle are all coming with me
What style of truck camper is Michael going to use.
We aren’t quite sure yet. Looking at either a wedge camper or a pop up one.
@@TailsofWanderlust would you and your boyfriend maybe do a tour of the new camper, so viewers can match between the new one and the Casita that he sold?
Absolutely will do! We are still shopping currently as we're trying to pick up a used one. But I'll do a tour once we have it up and running.
I presume Corey Hart would approve of wearing the Sunglasses indoors since he's good with wearing them at night!! :)
Hahah! Should have had that playing in the background. Thanks for watching Dean!
So, as much as I "pooh pooh" the Casita, it's genuinely a long lasting and cozy lil camper. 17' is a pretty small space, but- note the wet bath, the full size bed and the amenities. Shag carpeting always was a thumbs down from me, even if I do understand the why of it. Nice job, looks great and I'm sure that a LiFePO4 battery & modest inverter will be next!
...but the "rat-fur" interior wall covering material is the "Cat's Meow," yes?
Just kidding... :-)
-- BR
Hopefully! The new owner seemed to be excited about off-grid camping, so I'm sure those won't be too far behind!
Well, to be fair the carpet is not shag but marine grade polypropylene broadloom. In other words, it doesn't mildew and it doesn't smell (at least mine doesn't after 5 years).
@@richardhouvener6423 I also know it's not shag...I remember the 1970s -- great decade (actually, 1965-75 was, for ME). ;-)
But that lining Casita uses IS called rat-fur in common-usage (but I'm sure Casita doesn't call it that!): A thin "fuzzy" material.
Shag is entirely different (as you know).
Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to make a Colorado Bulldog, followed by a Tequila Sunrise.
Cheers,
-- BR
I really like all the mods you made to your Spirit Deluxe. Nice job! We also have a Spirit Deluxe, 2019. I was curious what brand of mattress you got for the bed. We got a 3 inch piece of memory foam, which we cut to fit. While not expensive, It is difficult to move around on because we would tend to sink down into it so far. It is very difficult for the person in the back to get out, especially if someone else is in the bed at the time. Once settled in, on my side, it is comfortable to sleep on. Have you had any of those problems with the mattress you had? Was it finished with cloth, or just bare foam?
Hi! We only slept on the mattress a few times until we sold it. I do have a memory foam in my Basecamp which I do really love. Here is all the info if you are interested: th-cam.com/video/XeeU3m3e-cM/w-d-xo.html
2 year waiting period if you wanna order one!
Crazy!
Your poor eyes. I pray they get better soon
Thank you very much Edward!
It was very pretty but missing a pop of color… a couple red pillows
Thanks for watching!
Where’s a good place to look for used campers?
[RVTrader.com](RVTrader.com) or check out different facebook groups/forums. A lot of times there are groups for specific models and it's a great way to find exactly what you want.
I hope his truck is capable (payload capacity) of carrying a truck-camper. Many of them are insanely-heavy even EMPTY (dry weight), then are overloaded by owners to where it's more wear & tear on their trucks, not to mention unsafe on the road.
If I already had a big heavy-duty truck, I'd be looking at truck-campers also...but I don't so would have to buy a truck as well as the truck-camper! Both together would be a bit too pricey at the moment (like buying a Class B campervan ~$100K or so, if lucky).
Happy trails,
-- BR
You are right on point Bill. It's very easy to go over the payload on the trucks. We are looking at light weight off-road style ones (wedge or pop-up) due to that payload concern. Even the light ones still require some upgrades to the suspension (air bags, etc.) in order to support it. Still in research mode on models, but I'll post the info once we set one up.
@@TailsofWanderlust Well, as long as he's not going to be carrying a "Mammoth" (by Host Industries) model 11-6 (19'3" overall length) truck-camper -- 3,995lbs EMPTY! -- then I guess it'll be okay... ;-)
Lance's 1172 is nice, but it weighs 4175lbs empty! FEW trucks could safely carry one EMPTY, let alone LOADED.
Outrageous!
BTW, Cirrus (by NuCamp, which also makes the T@B TTs such as the 320 and 400) are high-quality truck-campers also. Their largest one is the 820 @ 2916lbs empty.
And don't forget the other quality truck-camper brands, Arctic Fox & Big Foot -- both also 4-Season rated (IIRC). And again, sell quickly IF you can find one.
Speaking of truck-campers in general, I've found it absolutely incredible HOW BIG these larger truck-campers feel when inside them compared to looking at them from OUTSIDE as they look so small.
They remind me of my TARDIS...
-- Dr. Who
My mom just bought a casita.
That's awesome - I hope she enjoys it!
Hi whatcha up to hope all is well keep walking tall sending up prayers 4 healing and 4 unspoken and bless great healthy peaceful safe journeys travels recovery and happy camping also prayers 4 everyone in the name of the Creator God and Jesus and the Holy Ghost Amen much honor and respect cool casita
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Thanks for watching!
@@TailsofWanderlust ur welcome always keep walking tall and bless great healthy peaceful safe journeys and travels also prayers 4 healing and unspoken also 4 everyone in the name of the Creator God and Jesus and the Holy Ghost Amen much honor and respect enjoy ur videos keep on keeping on
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Have a great weekend Spud Man!
Explicit presentation.
Thank you! Appreciate you watching!