ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 มิ.ย. 2024
- After owning my Go-Pod Plus for 1 year, traveling to 28 different campsites, and spending 138 nights in it, here's my owner's review.
I cover towing, living in such a small space, storing when not in use, and I have a discussion about whether a Go-Pod represents good value for money.
Thanks for watching.
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CHAPTERS
00:00 Introduction
00:28 Why did you choose a Go-Pod?
03:08 Is a Go-Pod easy to tow?
06:55 What's it like living in such a small space?
12:56 Can a Go-Pod go "off-grid"?
16:34 Is a Go-Pod easy to store?
18:07 Does a Go-Pod represent good value for money?
20:21 Did you make the right choice buying a Go-Pod?
22:59 I want to know more
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LINKS
Please note that the below links are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. If you would like to support my channel in some way, using these links will help you do exactly that. Thank you very much
CARAVAN & TRAVEL ACCESSORIES
- Electric heater - amzn.to/3OLSOH7
- Fairy lights - amzn.to/3OH2CSA
- Mini kettle - amzn.to/49BYo6Y
- Dehumidifier boxes - amzn.to/3UOiDd8
- Elastic washing line - amzn.to/49w3AZK
- Hook up cable (10m or 25m) - amzn.to/3OLDASf
- Laundry bag - amzn.to/3uDhc6T
- Large mesh bag for shower stuff - amzn.to/3SX9ZrE
- Wastewater carrier - amzn.to/3UHbiMr
- Jack stands - amzn.to/3uGucIM
- Leveling block - amzn.to/4bHjSks
- Grip mats - amzn.to/3OLTxrP
- Jockey wheel chock - amzn.to/3UAG35U
VAN ACCESSORIES
- Dashcam - amzn.to/3wiQ4e1
- Collapsible crates - amzn.to/4bDJleE
- Mesh storage nets - amzn.to/49w4sO0
WINSTON (DOG) CLOTHING AND ACCESSORIES
- Red lift and assist harness - amzn.to/3uAcGpA
- Light up collar - amzn.to/49jnc3U
- Reflective yellow coat - amzn.to/3I7yBYh
- Fleece - amzn.to/3I11oOl
- Portable shower - amzn.to/42Ex2KU
- Buoyancy aid - amzn.to/3uzHQ0k
WINSTON FOOD AND SUPPLEMENTS
- Acana Light and Fit - amzn.to/3UHdfsf
- Or sometimes, Orijen six fish - amzn.to/3UC1bIZ
- Butcher’s lean and tasty - amzn.to/49hd2kf
- Yumove joint care - amzn.to/3OH4Cdy
- Protexin pro-fibre - amzn.to/3I2i7B2
- Duck necks - amzn.to/49AItWj
- Chicken Feet - amzn.to/49g7Ahw
- Sprats - amzn.to/3HXepZk
FUN STUFF
- Paddleboard - amzn.to/3SXFGRG
- Dog bike trailer - amzn.to/3uqzw3b
- Wet suit - amzn.to/3Sykhgg
My pin has been changed (it was easier to change it than edit it out of the video) so ya'll can chill now 😅😅
I am a dual citizen and I am originally from the deep South in the USA so I love how you use the term ya'll. 🤠
@@lelandbrooks8737 because I love country music! 🤠
😂😂
@@Roz.S However, y'all drive on the wrong side of the road!
Thank God I’m not the only single woman with a dog who needs her solitude 🙏 I have a van but I have been told by people I’m weird for always preferring to be alone ❤
I always get that too! Or people keeping thinking that I’m lonely or need to find someone to be happy, and I’m like ‘no thank you, I’m happy as I am 😇’
You do you! 👊🏼
Thanks for watching.
I prefer solitude all the time. I have a little 1500 sq ft house and a dog. That's plenty enough
I didn't feel alone before my dog passed. I considered her a soul and therefore a true companion, just as much as a human companion. I believe that the difference between companionship between of human versus the pet, neither is of less quality.
Im the same …my pooch and myself is when I’m at my happiest…not sure if it’s because I was an only child…. I have good friends if I want company. But as for solo banning, I’m new to it and I love it, never bored at home or in my camper… I take a few little jobs, or annoy people with my bad ukulele practice 😂😂
Love being single, always have, always will yet I am very sociable - love chatting to people! I like my own space but sharing with a little dog is my perfect life 👍🏻🙂
That is hands down one of the best, most comprehensive, balanced, useful (...........) owners review I've ever seen on TH-cam You simultaneously sold the Go-Pod and small size caravans in the one presentation. I can imagine many people buying Go-Pods, or minis, based on your reasoned research matching their own needs, and ultimately being smug about having "followed Roz's advice". 👏👏👏
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks so much for watching.
Superb Video, and not the only Loner out there. Spent many days and nights out and about, own a small campervan, and a rooftent, and I like my own company. The solitude of walking alone after spending all week in an office environment can be truly liberating and relaxing.
Agree!! I appreciate my surroundings much more when I’m on my own and I notice things that I would otherwise just walk past if I was with someone else. 🙂
Thanks so much for watching my video and commenting 👍🏼
A dog and a wandering life is ideal .
Your Go-Pod looks perfect being towed by your vehicle! Nice match. I wish that I was brave enough to go solo like that. Kudos!
They go together very well 👍🏼
Thanks so much for watching
For some reason I love watching videos on people living in small spaces. I have watched many. I don't drive, so this is something I will never do, but I just wanted to mention that I listened to everything you said and would like to say that you explained living in a go-pod caravan wonderfully.
Thank you so much for your kind comment. I don't live in my Pod full time, I do like to go back to a house and have a permanent base, but I can be away in the Pod for long periods.
Thanks so much for watching.
Fascinating insight with the correct conclusion, in my opinion. I would argue you have gained so much more knowledge because of the challenges you have adapted to. Also Winston has proven to be the perfect companion and your bond is a joy for people watching. When discovering your vlogs, it was the pod and your enthusiasm in your journey that entranced, sharing the experience being something to look forward to in these times. You, Winston and your adventures bring a light to my youtube experience and may it long continue. I think I am an avid fan, bless you both.
Yes, my experience with the pod had shown me what I need and don’t, and what I like and don’t.
Very happy to hear you enjoy our adventures and videos. More coming soon 🙌🏼 thanks for watching
Roz, get a 2000w power station, will last years and charge from solar and hookup. Will run your fridge lights and lap tops etc for 2 days or more. You can keep it in back of van! Awning for the pod maybe diy put your mind to it! Im sure theres a tent out there you can make fit?
I had a power station and solar set up when I worked from a tent. It gave up the ghost after a few years so I’m apprehensive about shelling out for a new one because they’re not cheap. I’m sure I can get an awning altered, just not got round to it 🙈 Thaks so much for watching
The power stations are very useful,Mike just upgraded my , nothing wrong with my old one at all that’s 4 years old , but I’ve gone with double the size now have a 1000w .
@@Roz.S If you are interested in a power station. I can offer you one.
@@Roz.S the new lithium batteries are less expensive now and most are up to 3000 cycles to last for 10 years or more. you can get additional portable panels also so you can have a electric fridge/freezer. i like your pod. very nice
@@smartnfinaltranslate to American please. I knew a "caravan" is a trailer. Is a "power station" same as a generator? How does adding more solar give power for appliances? You need a bigger " power station" right?
Im a 40 year old man and im exactly the same always have been since i was a child, i love my own conpany and thoughts i find too much company and constantly talking draining, i too love the outdoors i just need to motivate myself to get out more, i always admire seeing ladies such as yourself getting out there and doing things with feeling lonely,
Thanks so much for watching. I enjoying going out and experiencing the world and I never feel lonely doing it on my own. In fact, I personally think it's a better experience doing it solo.
Best of luck on your adventures! There's a whole world out there. 😀
@@Roz.S thanks Roz best of luck to you too and I've subbed so I can keep up with your new vids, take care x Steve
@@truthfilter Thanks so much. I hope you enjoy the rest of the adventure.
Hi Roz…That's the kind of review that people need to see before taking the plunge. A few years ago I bought a new Freedom Microlite, direct from a Northern caravan dealer. The build quality was quite poor, with peeling edges to the furniture panels, scuffed alloy wheel etc. Still a great micro caravan but still regret not choosing a Go Pod like yours!
It’s swings and roundabouts. I’ve heard a few people complain about similar with a Go Pod and switch to Freedom. Luckily, mine hasn’t been too bad. It has got some cosmetic marks, but it is a 2017 model so to be expected.
Thanks for watching.
Just love this vid. Very reflective and realistically explains why it was the right call for you at the time. I want to salute you for all you've achieved with your car, van and Winston over the past year. It's been great to share your adventures with you. :)
Thank you so much!! Really appreciate that. Winston and I are currently on a new adventure and the vlogs will start again shortly. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼
Love your clear, straightforward, balanced review with nothing superfluous in it! Covers all, and never bores. Well done!
Much appreciated! Thanks so much for watching
Nice, in-depth review, Roz.
Being able to store your ‘Pod at home is a big advantage, saving money and hassle.
The lack of internal space is possibly less of an issue for you as you’re ‘outdoorsy’, and don’t spend too much time in the van (weather permitting).
Apart from it being a good drying area, the lack of toilet compartment isn’t too much of a compromise as you usually use caravan sites.
In a nutshell, if you’ve got a small tow vehicle and you’re antisocial, get a Go-Pod😂
Summed up perfectly!! 👌🏼😅 Thanks for watching
Excellent, honest review. I matched my small towcar with a Gobur 10 /2T folding caravan, easy to tow at only 4' 5" high and around 775 kg fully loaded, easily set up by one person and giving an essential 6ft headroom.
Very nice! I never considered a folding caravan before 🤔 Thanks for watching 👍🏼
@@Roz.S Folding caravans are lighter, less expensive and easier to store. When the lift mechanism will not go up or down when you want it to, when it is dark, sleeting and you have been driving for hours or need to leave, you will wish you had a non folding / lifting caravan.
The shorter the trailer, the harder it is to back up. That's just a fact.
Yes! I am getting better at reversing but it is taking practice.
Thanks for watching.
I'm a truck Driver. That's true. I back a 53' trailer on a dime.
Kinda. Short pivot to axle is hyper reactive, but I find long rear overhangs make tracking the corners a challenge.
Love your straightforward no nonsense review. I used to drive a VW fox and that was like the TARDIS too. Amazing how these things can appear so small on the outside.
Appreciate the nice comment. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼
Thank you. Well organized, thorough, and thoughtful.
You're very welcome! Thanks for watching.
And Winston's input ----- so long as with you he is happy with whatever eh❤As some else said, very informative and we think you definitely made right choice. Some things are just meant to be. Really looking forward to our next adventures. Take care,keep safe ❤
😊 thank you. Winston is happy when he’s stealing the bed 😅
There are some disadvantages and some positives about your small caravan but the cutist thing about your caravan is the two eye stickers on the front window so cool and you don't have to buy another vehicle to tow a much heavier and larger caravan
Your experience with the Go Pod pretty much mirrors mine, took me a bit of time to adjust to the size having previously had a larger caravan with all the bells and whistles, now happy with it as you said easy to tow and stow, great for a quick getaway and being retired use this more than I did my larger Swift Challenger caravan, took your advice on a previous vlog and bought a Duvalay and what a difference from a sleeping bag possibly the most comfortable I have ever been in a caravan. Keep up the great vids Roz I look forward to watching yourself and Winston on your adventures.
A Duvalay does make a big difference, especially in a Pod. And Winston loves the Duvalay 😅 and often steals it!
Thanks so much for watching our videos. 🙌🏼🐶
Your Go Pod Is So So Sweet And Adorable ....The Inside Is Very Precious ....Keep It Dont Let Anyone Tell You Diff...Or Talk You Into Selling...This Is A Very Priceless Gift. GOD BLESS YOU ....Sure Wish I Could Afford One And Get One But I Dont Drive...❤
Hi Roz.. you definitely made the right choice and we all have to start somewhere.
We looked at a Go Pod then ended up with an Eriba 430 great lightweight caravan but didn’t come cheap.
Unfortunately I sold the Eriba after the first summer as I wanted something with a larger bed (I’m just shy of six foot). We are now saving for a new camper van hopefully within the next two years.
Great vlogs as always 👍
I do like the look of the Eriba, but very hard to come across a decent second hand one because they don’t stay on the market for very long. Best of luck with the van purchase 👍🏼
Thanks Roz a great honest review of your experience.
My pleasure 😊 Thanks for watching.
A very busy first year. A good choice unit for what you needed.👏
I think so too! Thanks so much for watching
I have an A-liner tipe camp trailer here in the States. I've been living out of it for over a year. I say it that way because I don't want to live in it, but out of it. Most of my time is spent in nature. In my travels I have seen a lot of ways to live. But I've never seen a little pod like yours. I think you are awesome.
Thank you so much! Appreciate you watching my video and leaving such a nice comment.
Thank you for this very informative video. After seeing your early video when you first got the Go-Pod and watching other reviews I decided to take the leap a buy a Pod. I pick it up next Tuesday so was apprehensive watching this in case you thought you had made a really bad decision. In my mind the storage, easy towing and small size are the key plus features and hopefully I will be able, like you to live with the downsides. I look forward to seeing how I get on with the small space. I’m sure I will pack far more than I need first time out 😀.
Thanks again for all of the work you put into creating your videos, they are appreciated by lots of people for both your adventures and the Pod - oh and of course Winston!
Best of luck with your new Pod! 😃 It will take a few outings to get use to the space, but then you’ll be flying. Wishing you lots of happy adventures! Thanks so much for watching our videos. 🙌🏼🐶
What a great review, a real owners experience about this caravan. Some brilliant advice also.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.
Fabulously informative !! ...as ever !
So nice of you. Thanks for watching
Encountered your video by chance. Very informative, you are a great communicator.
Thanks so much
11:37 😊😊😊 It was slight, but there was a delightful smile at the mention of another person sharing your space ...
Because everyone always talks about it so I was worried about mentioning it, thinking I was opening a can of worms 🙈 😅
A really fair review, excellent information for anyone thinking of buying a Go Pod.
Thanks so much
Your great little van and overall solution for going places makes great sense. You could go with bigger vehicles but higher prices and find you can't fit down lanes. Great video, thanks for sharing :)
Very true! Thanks so much for watching. 👍🏼
Only halfway through the video but gotta comment on the wry smile and internal chuckles about sharing the van with another person.. very funny 🤣🤣👍🏻
Thanks for this. Something I’ve been turning over in my mind for some time. To this 75 year old tent camper, a GoPod would provide unbelievable luxury! I simply don’t like traditional caravans. So old man! Which, is, of course, exactly what I am but don’t like to admit to. I like an Eriba but so expensive.
Age is all relative. My dad is in his 90's, so to him you're not old 😇 I like the Eriba too! But very rare to find a decent one second hand. Winston and I did the tent thing for many years, and the Pod is certainly a step up. The joy of making a cup of tea and putting the heating on after a day out in the rain is the best feeling ever! Thanks so much for watching. 👍🏼
Have you considered micro car camping? My husband is 75 didn't really enjoy our small motor home, which we sold. Now have berlingo with a boot jump, which he enjoys so much more. It does take some adapting to but worth a look. Yes, it's still more luxurious than a tent which we also did for years.
Thank you! Great info!!! your video was top notch!
Glad it was helpful! thanks for watching
I think you made right choice 😀 I wish we had these in USA ❤
You might have a similar micro caravan 🤔?
Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼
Thanks for this. Very informative. Moral of the story, get the one that's right for you. Cheers!
Absolutely! Thanks for watching
Thanks Roz, very interesting and informative video. You mentioned that your pod bounces on rough roads. I had a Freedom, admittedly an older one, now that did bounce, even on smooth surfaces. They may have changed but that was the worst thing I have ever towed. Since I started following your channel I am considering buying a pod. Thanks again.
The Pod tows lovely on well maintained roads, but she’s doesn’t like bumps, which is the majority of the UK roads 😅🙈
Thanks for watching our videos 👍🏼
Hi Ros, we have a Go Pod and totally agree with this video. Like you we wanted something we could tow with our existing small Kia and store on our drive. We take our retriever with us who just about fits inside when we don’t use the awning. Definitely paying for the small, lightweight design but that was what we needed. Keep having the adventures!
Winston is much smaller than a retriever but still takes up a lot of space when he stretches out. I bet your retriever can really stretch! 😂😂
Thanks so much for watching and for sharing your experience.
A great well thought out review of the Go Pod Roz. I was in exactly the same situation when I bought my Freedom Microlite 5 years ago. I had a budget to change my car to tow with and buy a new Caravan. I too looked at Camper Van's and came to the conclusion that buying a half decent looking campervan would be a constant money pit for what I could afford. Lots of Vans I saw had in excess of 100,000 miles on the clock and would require constant maintenance and repairs. For the same money I could swap my then car for something capable of towing the Microlite and would be new.
The other main drawback with a Campervan is that once you arrive on site you are stuck there unless you want to pack everything away everytime you want to go anywhere whereas, the caravan stays put and the car is free to take you where you want to go.
I chose a Microlite also so that I could keep it on my Drive and keep an eye on it and to easily do any maintenance jobs that need doing. Great video, enjoyed it and I'm sure that a lot of newbies or those thinking of buy a small Caravan will find it useful so they can make an informed decision. Look forward to future Vlogs.🙂👍
Yep, sounds like you went through the exact same thought process as I did 😅👍🏼
Thanks so much for watching. Wishing you all the best on your adventures.
Great video and very honest review. I've been towing for a while and recently downsized from a Bailey 4-berth Brindisi to a Beachy 420. My main reason was that my 4x4, primarily used for towing, wasn't ULEZ compliant and I needed to lower the weight to below a 1,000 kg to tow with my EV, which replaced the 4x4. Identical tow limit to your Renault.
I also travel with my dog Jasper and share your passion for exploring. If you're thinking about something bigger, I highly recommend the Beachy, which started selling in the UK last November. I did consider the Go-Pod and other micro-caravans but wanted a reasonable amount of internal space, as, like you, I often work while traveling. The Beachy 420 was the perfect fit and tows exceptionally well, as it is only slightly wider than the car. It's all-electric with internal water and waste tanks, making it very quick to set up. It doesn't have a bathroom, but it does have a toilet and a large walk-in wardrobe. For cooking, I use a Ninja Speedi Air Fryer, which is fantastic. Something worth considering if you ever plan on changing from your Go-Pod.
Keep up the great videos!
I've never heard of the Beachy 420 before, but I'll be sure to check it out. Thanks so much for the recommendation 👍🏼
Hi Roz 🙋♂️.Top review.I hope that these small car-van manufacturers take note of your experience of putting together a brilliant experience.😊❤️
Thanks so much! 🙌🏼
I never saw that before. I really like it
I used to have a folding caravan that I kitted out myself. It had a built in toilet, shower, h&c running water, Kitchen, central heating, double bed. Those things can be done in small spaces, it only requires a little ingenuity.
It's surprisingly easy to make an awning, that way it can be exactly as you want it.
We used to have a fab small French frame tent with a hanging enclosed bedroom section & side section with a window for storage/cooking & I bought the material & adjustable poles to make an awning then made a wind break for it with a window panel in the top half to shelter my petrol stove from wind & was able to always cook outside whatever the weather.
We used it for years & it was like a little bungalow. Loved it.
Have a look at what's available in tent material, poles etc & see if you can do it yourself.
I have been thinking about getting an awning altered to fit a Go Pod, but just not got around to it. I don’t have the skills to do it myself (I can barely sew on a button 🙈) so I’ll pay someone who knows what they’re doing 😅
Thanks so much for watching
@@Roz.S Ah, probably just as well to get someone to do it for you then!
It'd be worthwhile as it vastly increases the covered space you & Winston would have to live in & you can stand up in it obviously, I think you'd find it liberating & enjoy your Pod much more.
Look forward to seeing you both using one in the not too distant future.
Enjoy your adventures together this summer.
How tall is the pod? Could you have a free standing gazebo/ pop up tent over the back to give you the awning, without having an awing?
I love that you're making the pod work for drying wet gear, but I would also find that frustrating having it in with me, especially when space it limited.
Love this video, randomly on my home page - definitely worth the watch! 😊
1st class review. Thanks
No problem 👍 Thanks for watching
I completely agree with you. There's only enough room for you and Winston 😉 I would never share one of my campervans with anyone. Not in the past with my beloved Mitsubishi Delica and not now with my 5,60 metre long campervan either. 😁 I've been travelling alone for over 30 years and love my independence. 😄
Sounds incredible! The best way to travel :)
Thanks so much for watching!
What a lovely little van. If it bounches a lot when hitting certain oneven roads,look if the axle has shock obsorbers fitted. That will make a massive difference if not. Since most trailer makes using the same chassis and axle components almost always there are mountings present to fit shock absorbers as a retro fit. Also make sure the tires are the correct weight spec.specially not go overboard on the weight rating. If you fit a tyres for a 1500 kg van under a 800kg van,that rhing will bounce all over the place. The tyres are part of the suspension system.
All you need is your dog,my dog is my everything ♥️
I much prefer the company of my dog 😅 Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Great video! Very well thought out and presented!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Hi Roz! Interesting review. We dry our wet Clothes and Towels in the Car. It works perfect since 40 Years.
Happy Travels further on. 👍
Thank you! I do that too sometimes if I have space in the back of van 👍🏼 but it does take a while to dry sometimes 🙈
Thanks so much for watching
This was most interesting. Thanks!
I'm in the US, so we don't have a Go-Pod branded micro trailer, we do have some brands that are a bit similar. So many of your points are applicable. Again; thanks for making this video because it gave me much food for thought.
Glad you found it helpful. Thanks so much for watching.
New sub from Melbourne Roz. Very comprehensive and honest review 🇦🇺
Thanks so much for watching and subscribing 😀👍🏼
Bluetti please send Roz the AC200max battery generator for review❤
Thanks, but I've had a portable battery with solar set up while I was travelling in a tent. Ran my laptop no problem and charged quickly with the solar, but it gave up the ghost after only a few years so I'm not confident about getting another. Plus, not sure it would run my fridge 🤔 Thanks for watching 👍🏼❤️
@@Roz.S Bob Wells in the US just did a review of a generator you can use either gas or propane in. But the review he did of a generator, was of one he had borrowed from a friend, with her permission.
He gives the cons of using gas vs. propane, like his friend has only used in the generator. Her having used only propane in her generator, will allow her to keep the generator phenomenally longer.
Unfortunately, if using propane, the generator would have to be ran outside due to the fumes you can't see or smell. The generator sounded a lot quieter than a lot of the huge behemoth generators people with huge rv's have to resort to using due to the amount of things they need to run, such as a refrigerator, air conditioning, lights, etc. I've been very hesitant buying a generator. One, the cost for sure is a big deterrent. Second, I do not like the smell of gas fumes in the air.
Gas generators are just downright obnoxious. Loud and smelly, but I know it's the only options a lot of people have had for the longest of times. The propane generator is the first I've ever heard about. Recently, in years.
I appreciate your thorough overview of such a small "start out" camper. I really love how cute the smallest airstreams are. Similar to the size of this pod, but most likely costs double or triple the price of this travel pod.
I hope this is beneficial to you and appreciate the insight about your battery generator. If I were to want a generator in the future, this is by far the first time I've considered the idea to use a propane/gas generator. Though I could use gas. I'd only want to use propane only and appreciate that finally being an option. I absolutely hate the ones that use gas only.
I don't like going past loud generators in campground areas, that smell of gas fumes, and am glad there's finally other alternatives to power a generator. Haven't bought one because gas ones were the only option for years.
I've highly debated just getting a van I can stand straight up in, so there's no unhooking from your car. Just to have that ability to roll out of bed and go to the store if you need to. No need to worry about if your rig is too light and someone walking by, picking up your rig and literally walking off with it. That's my biggest concern. Otherwise, very cute rig! I like the airstreams and t@bs, but this would most likely be the one within my current budget as a starter rig. 🩵✨️🩷✨ ️
Not a UK fella so to me your accent is soooo lovely
The pod is cool !!
Thank you very much
So its actually not her having the accent.😉
great vid roz as always...on the subject of off griding,ive lived and worked in my small renault master camper for nearly 4yrs now and ive found out(the hard way)that when it comes to electrics theres no quick fix leisure batteries and bluetti type power packs dont run anything other than usb devices for very long and even then you have to charge again which takes forever so the best way to off grid is to think like your camping in a van(or go pod).the only thing i have especially in winter is a deisel heater built in which has been a god send but still you have to babysit the battery...hope this helps somebody out there...
Thanks so much for sharing your experience. My 'problem' is that I need to work, so running my laptop and internet over several hours is a priority. Sometimes I need to run them overnight if I need to upload/download a large amount of files.
Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Really interesting video. Never thought of a micro camper but looks like a good option. Thank You for sharing....
Thanks for watching!
Thanks for the vlog I think with any purchase of a caravan you have to comprise as long as it ticks enough boxes that's ok 👍
Absolutely! None of them are perfect and everyone wants something different. Thanks so much for watching.
That is just too cute!! How I wish they were available here in Canada!! I had Boler for a couple years and it was only around 800lbs and easy to haul, but, foolishly, I sold it. But, to buy something small here, you would pay a minimum of $10,000 for an old one, so, now it is way out of my realm of possibilities. Sadly, I sold mine for $4000cdn, and now they’re going for $10K up to $16K for the same year and model of the one I sold for $4K!! Hind sight is 20/20! Thank you for sharing.
Hi Ros, great video. The answer to your power problems in relation to charging your electrical equipment is getting something like a Beaudens Power Generator with a matching portable solar panel. I have both with a total cost of about £250.
I had a generator and solar panel set up when I travelled and worked from a tent. It worked great but then gave up the ghost after a few years of heavy use.
Nice discussion. Even though my Silverado 4x4 truck and Escape 21C caravan are much bigger, I went through exactly the same set of considerations as you. A truck was a necessity for me as I carry off-road motorcycles, a mountain bike and a kayak plus snow and ice are always a possibility. I live in Oregon where the roads are bigger, the distances vast and the weather can be very severe but still there is real value in going MINIMAL. Happy camping. 😊😊
I would love a big truck! But they’re very expensive to run here in the UK as they’re not very fuel efficient and have high vehicle tax, plus it would be difficult weaving down some of our country roads in such a big vehicle. We each buy what suits our requirements. 🤗
Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏼
thanks for sharing your thoughts on your little camper
My pleasure! Thanks for watching.
Hi again ! What works for you and your lovely dog , is all that matters 🥰... I love my caravan , but now my car has got rust disease ... so I have started to look for a newer car which can tow at least what my caravan is allowed to weigh ... a proper diesel car is going to cost around here , electric car is absolutely useless for my kind of use 😋
I don’t know of any electric vehicles with enough power to tow 🤔 Hope you find a good solid diesel 👍🏼🙌🏼
Thanks so much for watching.
Brilliant video, very well explained. Subscribed and will watch the videos
Thank you! Much appreciated. Hope you enjoy them. A new adventure vlog series is starting very soon 👍🏼
Good video. Enjoyed it.
Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching
❤ great video we pick ours up from three shires leisure in a few weeks , we have had lots of small vans over the years. Eriba puck - freedom - trigano silver 310 and now the go pod I hated towing large vans so find small vans stress free
Wishing you all the best on your adventures!!
Thanks for watching.
You have a great looking outfit. Not only have you chosen a caravan that is easy to tow, you also have a great vehicle to pull it. Vans can be way better at towing than cars. They normaly have suspension that can cope with the extra weight, and are slightly lower geared for carrying loads. Also your van has a very short overhang from the back axle. This helps the stability of the outfit. The longer the overhang the more the caravan can influence the movements of the tow vehicle.
In the 80s I had a Sprite Cadet (8 feet long with a door on the back, a bit like yours). I towed it with a 1.0 Metro. We did have an awning on the back for our 2 boys to sleep in. Yes, 4 people in an 8 foot (about 2.5 metres) caravan.
I did not know what about the overhang but it does make sense 👍🏼 Just Googles Sprite Cadet caravan and I can’t believe you fit 4 people in it 😂😂 I bet you all made some great memories. Thanks so much for watching my video 👍🏼
Great video! Very informative and level.
Thank you very much 👍🏼
Roz,, i swear you are the funniest , brilliant
I have no idea what you find funny, but I’ll go with it 😅👍🏼
Hi Roz, I find you funny because you don't know you are being funny, this is a big complement, you are excellent in explaining what,when,how and why, but sometimes I see clever humor ,well its there all the time , just a big thank you for excellent channel...regards...Dave
A battery upgrade sounds likely to be a good move. Like your logical analysis.
Informative...Thanks :)
Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.
Awesome review!
Thanks so much 👍🏼
That was a great review.
Thanks so much!
Just one guys opinion but I think you did the right thing, you bought a caravan that was sized correctly for your van, I have towed RVs from 16 foot to 33 feet long, the most important thing is getting a caravan that is not too big for your tow vehicle. The RV you have is the one you need for yourself right now, maybe in a couple years things will change and you will want something different. I’m driving a campervan now, it’s small but is just what I need for the type of travel I’m doing now, no children only a couple of little dogs, who knows what tomorrow will bring, just enjoy yourself.
Yes, having something that I could safely tow with my van was my main consideration, especially since I had zero towing experience when I started. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. All the best on your adventures 👍🏼
Great vid I think you nailed it with your review open and honest
Glad you think so! Thanks so much for watching.
Nice review Roz 👍
Thank you 😁
Interesting Video. The Go-Pod is cute. I've never been a Van Life person, but one never knows what the future holds, people change. I would not tow anything. It would have to be a Van and I'd have to be able to stand up inside of it. I too, like my solitude. Happy travels Roz.
Hope you find something that works for you and you have many happy adventures. Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Great summary, cheers! As another solo traveller (sans dog) I looked at go-pods, but two things put me off. 1: the price, as you say you pay a premium. 2: I realised I didn't want to be tied to always going to caravan parks. In the end I built some removable camping components for my Berlingo (your van's bigger brother) and went the micro camper route instead. It's great for one person, but you'd have to REALLY like someone else to try to travel with two 😅. It would be nice to be able to stand up, but other than that I enjoy the freedom of not having to tow. I tried an awning too but found it too much faff to bother with.
I did have a brief moment when I thought about converting my van, but I don't have the skills or know-how and my van is really small, so went the towing route. I do wish that I could just stop wherever, instead of having to plan and book campsites in advance. There's positives and negatives to each scenario, but I glad you've found something that works for you 👍🏼😀 Thanks so much for watching.
I nearly bought a Nemo, I'm definitely glad of the extra space in the Berlingo tho. I just modified existing stuff really - a couple of bedside tables from the cheapo unloved section in a BHF store became my cabinets, and a camperize folding bed that I lowered and got some new foam for. Seems to work for me anyway. I like to park up by the sea to watch the sunset with a cuppa and a book or podcast. Ahhh solitude!
@@MultiVogon It’s those little moments in life that we need to make the most of! You can beat those experiences. Wishing you lots more of them 🙌🏼
Hey Roz, great review - you just came up in my feed, I've seen these and never thought it could be something I would buy but I think your review just changed my opinion. I've currently got a campervan that Im redoing, v2.0. Im more of a stealth camper, disappearing to Spain each year. If I see you on my travels I'll be sure to say hi.
Just note that Go Pods are not very stealth and you’d always need a campsite if you got one 🙈
Thanks for watching. Best of luck on your travels 🚗
Thank you posting this video. It’s very informative. I’m tied between a ‘Go Pod’ and the ‘Trigano 290’, which too has a 750kg max authorised weight. Both excellent. There is a charm about a ‘Go Pod’ though. Decisions decisions lol :)
Glad it was helpful! Best of luck on your search 👍🏼🙌🏼
Hi Roz about alternatives have a look at the Carpento 310 full featured cool looking i have ordered one MTPLM 750kg my wife and myself are retired and this was something we planned to do for some time.
@@Roy-pk4xd Wishing you both lots of happy adventures.
What a canny Lass.
Great head on her shoulders.
Fantastic Video & Balanced review.
Eriba could be a van move
Puck L 850kg max
Great van
Or Puck 600kg
Thank you very much 👍🏼
Some Pucks are lighter the the pod you got. They’re the older ones, but awesome vans
Love your videos roz, you have taught me so much, ive just got a pod and im brand new to towing i think we are like 2 peas in a pod because i got mine for exactly the same reasons as you i thought about a campervan but for my price range too old lots of miles and i didnt want to get rid of my car as i needed a reliable 1 for work, but like yours i cant tow alot i would of loved a basecamp but id of had to change my car so for now im happy with my pod. Happy podding i cant wait to have adventures like you except i dont have a dog😂
Yep, that was exactly my reasoning too. Thanks so much for watching and best of luck on your adventures.
Love your videos - thank you for putting the effort into posting them. I don't know if this is of any use but I saw a shower design in another video somewhere that was a self-contained unit in a clamshell design. You lifted the top part of "the clam" and it had a self-contained screen all around it. I can't remember how it stayed up but it became a waterproof shower cubicle. And I can't remember how the water bit worked particularly for hot water... but it was a shower! And would complete your Go Pod perfectly. If I ever come across it again or can track down more info I'll let you know 👍
That sounds interesting. 🤔
Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼
Very interesting. I'm a lone caravaner with a spaniel too. I had a T@B 320 at first but moved to an Adria Action 361LT for the bathroom & electric heating. A towing course was invaluable for me too. My tow car is a Skoda Kamiq 1.5 proving small can be beautiful.
Well, there are already small caravans with a gross vehicle weight of up to 750kg. For example the Pino Pixel. I think it's built in Turkey. Already available in Germany. Or the Niewiadow. As a rear awning, I would recommend the one I have. It's from Oblink in the Netherlands and is called Elbe or Donau, depending on the size. If you have a piping rail at the back, then this is a really good alternative.
The lack of headroom would really bother me. That's why I opted for a cargo trailer and converted it myself. As I'm travelling with an even bigger dog, I needed space for her and myself. And I had to redo everything after we realised that the layout I had built didn't work for us. 😅
😮just thought about when we had a freedom jetstream caravan we used a toilet tent to dry out our wet clothes you only need a cheap one hope that helps take care both of you love your vlogs
That's a great idea! I’ve got a toilet tent, but it has a mesh roof that allows the rain in, I’ll have to get one with a tarp roof 👍🏼
Thanks for watching.
Roz hope your well and planning your next excursion summer has begun here 30°today to a tad warm
keep smiling and give Winston a pat from us Frank #Spain
The next adventure is currently underway! ...I would like some sunshine though!
Thanks for watching. The vlogs will be along shortly.
Hi roz, I looked at a go pod for doing the north coast 500 but found it to cramped for me and Heather my partner so we've got a brand new trigano freestyle 270 . Same width as a go pod and length and the same towing weight ,also is a pop top but it's the whole of the floor space .we've had a couple of long weekends in it already and love the space but like you have said you do have to be minimal with things. Really love your videos and enjoying the walks you do with Winston. Glad to have subscribed 👍
Sounds great! I do think a Go Pod is tight squeeze for two people. Glad you managed to find something that works for the both of you. Best of luck on your adventure 👍🏼
Thanks for subscribing and watching our videos 🙌🏼
great video for sure!
Glad you think so!
I think you made the right decision by having a caravan it leaves you free to wander in the area where you are staying.
I do enjoy setting up the caravan and then not having to move anything until I leave the campsite, while at the same time being able to drive around in my van. I can go a lot more places 👍🏼
Thanks so much for watching.
I love my Peugeot Partner.
Really cool video. Greetings from an American living in rural Japan!
Hello, thanks so much for watching. Glad you liked the video 👍🏼
A brilliant and honest insight to owning and using the pod.....lots of things to consider, thanks Roz 👍...looking forward to your next outing 🙂
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching. The next adventure will be along shortly
Hi, 🇨🇦What a great 😃 way to meet you...1st time viewing ❤️😸🌞
Welcome! Thanks for watching 👍🏼
Freedom Microlight Discovery max wt 750kg. Pop top. Includes bathroom with washbasin and wc. Quite a lot more room inside than the Go Pod, as it doesn't have the sloping roof. Also cheaper, but hold their value as they have a bit of a cult following. A lot of people don't know about the Freedom range. They are great little caravans, well equipped with 3 way fridge and 2 burner hob. Lots of options for awnings. They are made of fibreglass, so they don't leak and are expected to last for 30 years. Just felt I should mention it as I've just bought a Freedom van (from their range) and loving it 🤗
I had the freedom in my list, it’s just a go pod came available first 👍🏼 if timing was different, I would be in a Freedom.
Thanks for watching my video. Wishing you lots of adventures in your new van 👍🏼
@@Roz.S Thanks so much for your reply. I love your videos and always look forward to seeing your adventures. Please keep doing what you're doing 😊
What a strangely coherent video! I'm not sure why I stopped to view this, but to see someone talking logically about multiple 1st time camper issues isn't normal.
(I either live in my 35' sailboat, or my 18' Japanese campervan)
Thanks … I think 😅😅😅
Pretty cool 😎
Thank you
I just found you and subbed.love to see inside of the van,its terrific! Camper goes well with it.think it was a good choice,to keep the van.if you ever decide to sell it,something else could pull that trailer.who knows maybe another trailer may catch your eye. I will be watching! Safe travels! I am 70 in the USA. I have a fourdoor jeep to camp in. And a scooter.actually 2.may get a trailer to store them and our camp gear. It will give us some riding around while the camper and truck sits at a campground.the scooters get about80 to 100 miles per gallon. And you can park them anywhere
Thanks so much for watching and subscribing. I have done a full tour of the Pod and you can see the inside here - th-cam.com/video/HJweD_1KsuI/w-d-xo.htmlsi=G9QVs8YHU6HquGxx
Wishing you all the best on your adventures.
Roz it's a fantastic set up you have, big deal you don't need anything fancy it's what you need yourself that matters..go enjoy yourself& you're dog...👃
Exactly that 🙌🏼 Thanks so much for watching
That was an excellent review. The off-grid ability could be rectified, there is quite an extensive range of 12V fridge/ freezers available these days, as well as high capacity Lithium batteries and portable solar panels. The options are endless, only limited by the budget you have to throw at it. You could possibly also retrofit it with a diesel heater in place of the gas, which are known to be quite efficient, especially heating such a small space.
Thanks! I have been thinking of doing some upgrades but I wanted to review it as a standard Go Pod first 🙌🏼
Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼