Simple NO BUILD Minivan Camper Conversion | Honda Odyssey
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 พ.ค. 2024
- Let's tour my 2023 Honda Odyssey minivan camper. I use this minivan camper for extended camping and road trips.
This is a NO BUILD DIY camper conversion built with the following requirements:
1. Must be a low effort build - I'm not a carpenter. I need to keep it simple.
2. Must be easy to switch between camper mode and daily driver mode.
3. Must be easily adaptable between one and two person sleeper.
As a tall man, I focused on creating a bed setup that would be comfortable and I succeeded. I'm using a Blitzbed made by TrunkMake. It's lightweight, fully collapsable and easy to setup and remove. I'M NOT SPONSORED BY TRUNK MATE. I'M JUST A SATISFIED CUSTOMER.
This tour focuses on the single sleeper setup. This setup give me extra room to relax. I like to say I have both a living room and a bedroom in this minivan camper build.
We'll also tour the various storage options, cooler setup and accessories. I'm using Skeeter Beater window screens, a Thule rooftop cargo box, and a few other items.
Double the Fun: Converting My Minivan Camper into a Two-Person Sleeper: • Minivan Camper | DOUBL...
Get $75 off on a TrunkMate Sleeping Platform by using coupon code JUSTINHIKES at checkout or by using this link directly: trunk-mate.com/ref/6/
Buy me a coffee: ko-fi.com/justin_hikes
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➤ Gear I'm using in my MINIVAN CAMPER
- TrunkMate Sleeping Platform: trunk-mate.com/ref/6/ (Use THIS link for $75 off your order)
- Memory Foam Camping Sleeping Pad: amzn.to/46Z7w4b
- Magnetic Car Sunroof Sun Shade Breathable Mesh :amzn.to/47296Co
- Tailgate Mesh Net: amzn.to/45CxCsA
- Thule Motion XT Rooftop Cargo Carrier: amzn.to/3tJmbCd
- Car Seat Organizer: amzn.to/3MB2XW7
- Rechargeable 8-Inch Battery Operated Clip on Fan: amzn.to/408a25S
- Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier: amzn.to/3skmWkP
- Tie Downs Straps: amzn.to/3uatjHN
- Skeeter Beater screens: theskeeterbeater.com/
➤ Gear I use HIKING and BACKPACKING:
- Water Filter: amzn.to/3Mr5i5C
- Bear Proof Container: amzn.to/3sj6p0p
- Trekking Poles: amzn.to/3sl0fNl
- Backpacking Stove: amzn.to/3seradL
- Ultralight Backpacking Tent: amzn.to/3SpvHEJ
- Backpacking Sleeping Pad: amzn.to/3QldS7a
- Ultralight Inflatable Pillow: amzn.to/3FIcjLC
Disclaimer: Some of these links are affiliate links where I'll earn a small commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you. This helps support the channel. Thank you!
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If you enjoyed this video, please consider LIKING and SUBSCRIBING. I want to share my joy of the outdoors with you. I hope that you are inspired to get outside and enjoy nature too. Thanks!
Find me on social media:
- Instagram: / justin_hikes
- TikTok: / justin_hikes
- Twitter: / justin_hikes
#minivancamptour #hondaodyssey #diycamper #camping #minivan #campervan #camper #trunkmate
1) Get $75 off on a TrunkMate Sleeping Platform by using coupon code JUSTINHIKES at checkout or by using this link directly: trunk-mate.com/ref/6/
2) Here's a link to my other video where I provide detail on the DOUBLE (2-person) Sleeper setup: th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
3.) See the video Description for links to all of the products I'm using in my minivan camper build.
Thanks for all the positive feedback. It's really appreciated. If this video delivered any value to you, please consider LIKING and SUBSCRIBING for more minivan camper and hiking adventures.
How tall are you?
@@enhancedutility266I'm 6' 3"
@@Justin_Hikes do you sleep comfortably in the Odyssey with your height?
@@enhancedutility266I sure do. I talk about it in detail in the video. Cheers!
@@Justin_Hikes ok thank you
nice no build! yes, please let’s see how you sleep two people. thx!
Right on! This will probably be my next video.
Thanks for sharing your no build camper van, very interested to see how you convert into two people camper. Thanks
Here's a new vid with the 2-person sleeper configuration. Cheers! th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
@@Justin_Hikes thank you!
Your thumbnail video reminded me of newspaper headlines ... "TALL MAN SLEEPS COMFORTABLY, TALL MAN SLEEPS COMFORTABLY, READ ALL ABOUT IT" 😂 Positivity all the way with your video. Have a totally fabulous week ahead
Haha! Thanks. I had a chuckle when I created the thumbnail
The TrunkMate is exactly what I've been looking for. I can't believe this is the first that I've come across it, despite having watched many, many microcamper videos. I have a 2016 Ford Transit Connect wagon, and have been very reluctant to remove the backrow seats since I don't want to fuss with building a custom floor. The levelers on the BlitzBed should work perfectly. THANK YOU, Justin, for the tip. I love your no-build build.
Right on! Thank you and good luck!
yes, but $600
@@TheTirexik$600 is absolutely crazy. Wow.
Great video tour, Justin! I'm impressed with your organization and cleanliness. And you're right... Having the "living room" to sit in before bed is clutch! You've really got your systems dialed. Happy adventuring!
Love your non built would love to see the back mesh install and 2 beds at the same time.
Thanks! I posted a video yesterday with the 2-sleeper setup. Here's the link: th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
I'd like to see it with all the window/door screens
Great! I'll create a video of the screens and other items I use to keep me cool in warm weather. It will be a week or two before I can work on it. Thanks!
Great simple set up! 👍
Thanks! 👍 I've been really happy with it.
Super ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks!
Thank you so much Justin. This was a nice alternative to non-built out! Well done and much appreciated!👍
Glad it was helpful! I'm thrilled some folks are enjoying my minivan tour vid!
So neat and organized.
Thank you!
Thank you! Great walk through. I do very much like that bed.
Right on. Thanks!
Thanks for such an easy and smart set up video!
Right on! I’m thrilled some folks appreciate it.
NICE!!!
Thanks! I slept comfortably each and every night! 😀
Thanks so much for this, it's super helpful and informative!
Glad it was helpful!
thank you for that. Watched the whole thing
Right on Nathan. I really appreciate the kind words and I’m glad you found the video worth your time.
Awesome ideas. Utility, fast, and very low cost. Thanks 👍👍👍
Thanks! I’m really happy with it.
Awesome setup, Think you for sharing..
Thanks for the kind words. I'm thrilled some folks are enjoying this vid.
Thank you so much for sharing your no build camper van. 😃
I’ve never heard about that style of bed, so thank you very much for sharing. 😊
Right on! Tomorrow I will upload a video showing how I convert from 1-person sleeper mode to 2-person sleeper.
Nice build! Safe travels 🩵
Thanks, you too!
Great tour of your crib! The TrunkMate looks fantastic, and dang this entire thing makes me consider a mini-van!
Thanks! I drove over 5,000 miles on this road trip and was fully satisfied with the minivan camper. Minivan camping isn't for everyone, but I've been really happy with it so far!
Thanks Justine well done video so informative and easy breezy looks fabulous …I’m just starting with my Odyssey 😅 thank you so much again for the lookie enjoy 🎉
Thanks! Best of luck to you and your Odyssey Bonita. Cheers!
Good job
Thanks! I appreciate the kind words.
Thanks for showing me this kind of van setup. I’m in need of a newer vehicle but want to be able to camp in it as well. This makes it possible more so than a cargo van etc.
Glad you found it helpful Karen. I've been really happy with the setup. Right now it's back in "daily driver" mode. I'm looking forward to doing more camping trips with it in the Spring.
Yes would love to see the double bed up. 😊
Hi. Here's the vid with the double bed setup: th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.htmlsi=MtD7FO2boi0UBAj2
Nice setup. I’m a new subscriber and looking forward to watching your videos.
Awesome, thank you!
Nice!
Thanks April. Cheers!
Oh wow!!! I like that bed. I love watching people like you. I am inspired to now take my own journey. I am currently building out my minivan and documenting it on my youtube channel. Thank you for sharing❤
Thanks so much. Best of luck with your build and journey.
@@Justin_Hikes ❤️ What type of clothing do you wear when you hike?? Specifically to keep away the no seeums. I went on my very first camping trip last year and I came back with a whole lot of bites all over me.
Looks fantastic!
I found out that 2 Walmart Ozark Trail cots fit side by side in our 05’ Sienna with lots of space for storage underneath.
Can’t be much simpler than that.
3rd row folded in second row taken out when we travel as a couple. 🍻🍻
Right on! Thanks for suggesting the cots. Simple is the way to go. It takes the right mindset but I think it's for the best. Cheers!
Which style?
@@gailjohnson6670 70’s hair style…🤣🤣
What’s the question?
🙋♂️
Odyssey is only 48" wide and two Ozark cots are 50". Can they squeeze into a smaller space or is Sienna wider?
@@autoworkout we have the older green canvas ones they are narrower and just fit!
Very simular to my Odyssey setup. We think the same. I use a kayak on roof for cargo pod. Im thinking of fabricating a bed that will ride on the mid seat tops with headrest removed.
I am a new follower of your channel Greetings from Sweden 😊
Thank you! You live in a beautiful country. Someday if I’m lucky I will visit Sweden.
@@Justin_Hikes Thanks. You are welcome
Damn..
Ur requirements are the same same as mine and this model vN us exactly what I want to get for my family..subbed. thanks for sharing
Right on! Best of luck with yours. In case you are interested, I also have another vid where I have the two person setup configured. Cheers!
Excellent video, Justin. Your goals mirror mine. I like the idea of options, i.e., no permanent interior structures, easily convertible between camper and daily driver, and somewhere to sleep where you don't have to curl up to fit.
Thanks! I'm starting to think there's quite a few of us interested in a setup with these requirements. Like I mentioned in the vid, I really admire some of the custom buildouts I've seen but that's not what I'm looking for. At least not right now. 😉
Yes please to a video with the double bed set up. I’m also curious to see your bug screen deployed for the back hatch. Nice video! Great to see solutions that work for taller folks!
I filmed the double bed setup this weekend at Rocky Mountain National Park. I’m editing it and expect to post it mid week. Thanks!
Here's the new vid with the double bed setup. Cheers! th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
LOVE IT! I've camped in my Town & Country at boy scout camp, but not like this! I'm on this like a dog on a pork chop!!
Right on! I love my setup. Best of luck with yours as well.
I too have a 2023 Odyssey and have a similar setup. I don't have a bed frame, i discovered one day while laying on my camping mattress i didnt mind being on the floor, although i will look into the one you have. Only thing i really wish is the second row slides came out with the seats, but when im sitting in the third row i put a pillow on them and use them as footrests. Happy travels.
I'm like yourself. I just put my air mattress on the floor. I have a 2020 Odyssey. I sleep the opposite direction-head against the rear window. I put my suitcase and boxes along side of me--becomes my nightstand, lol. I bring small fans for air flow.
Right on! I slept with just my air mattress when I first bought the minivan. I had a good night's rest! I prefer the bed frame but simple is great too. Cheers!
Right on! I also have a rechargeable fan that I use when sleeping in warm weather. I forgot to show it in the video.
Would love to see the bed setup for two. Great video!
Thanks! Here’s the other vid with the two person setup:
th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
Wow almost same thing with us but with a Pacifica ….. simple!!!
Right on! Although I really admire the custom builds I see online, SIMPLE is the way to go for me.
I have 2012 odyssey only 40,000 miles getting ready to live full time on road. Took console between seats out, will probably miss storage but will give me safety of going from driver seat to back. Going to check out skeeter stopper thanks for ideas
Right on! Enjoy life on the road. Cheers!
That bed is awesome. Added to my notes. I'm like you: I don't have a lot of carpentry skills and even less interest in learning them. First I've heard of this.
Right on! I’m still really happy with it. If you decide to buy one please consider using the link in the vid Description. I’ll get a small commission at no cost to you. Cheers!
@@Justin_Hikes Will absolutely do so if that comes up. Currently planning for the future though. Just bought a new Subaru Outback (and regretting not looking into vans instead, but have driven an Outback most of my adult life) and am working on a car camping set up. Eventually, when my current life situation changes, I want to go back to travel nursing and a daily driver sized van is the perfect compromise for this as my nursing specialty is outpatient/home hospice. Sorry for my life story, but your vid was VERY helpful!
@@Justin_Hikes I WILL, however, take a look at the other stuff on your list!
I wonder kind sir if you could post links to the products you have shown in this video, your set up is exactly what I have been looking for, the window black outs as well as all products please and thank you
Good idea! I’m on the road for another week. I’ll add the links when I’m back home. Thanks!
Thank you 😊
Hey everyone! Thanks for all the positive feedback on my minivan tour video. Let me know if there's anything I missed or if you have any questions. Thanks!
It would be interesting to see the two bed set up
Glad to hear it. I’ll work on a video for it as soon as I can. Stay tuned. 😀
@@lisaatthebeach here's the new vid for the two bed setup. Cheers! th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
I've watched dozens of no build van videos, but this has been my favorite one. I see you have blackout window covers that you didn't mention. Could you guide me to where I can find those? Thank you! Subscribed!
Thanks so much Justin. I really appreciate the kind words.
Sorry I missed your question about the suns shades for the windows. They are from WeatherTech. I'm not sure I'd get them again though. They were kind of expensive and don't quite fit perfectly. They fit pretty good for but that kind of money they should be perfect IMO. I might make a vid about them at some point.
Justin great info!!!
How do you keep cool on summer nights when sleeping and all doors are closed
Great question! I have screens for two of the windows, the sun roof and tailgate. That allows some air to flow without letting insects inside. I also have a small rechargeable fan which I forgot to show in the video. Lastly, the key to keeping comfortable on summer nights is camping where the nights get cool. I try to head to higher elevations in the mountains where the nights usually get brisk. At least that's what I try to do. Cheers!
Thanks for this video Justin. It was helpful and gave me some ideas for converting my mini van for camping. How difficult was it to take the 2nd row seats out ? What about putting them back in the van? Would you consider making a video of that process? Great video!
2nd row seats are relatively easy to remove. The only issue is they are a little heavy and awkward to lift. But I’m over 50 and can still do it myself. I’m planning on posting a vid in the next couple of weeks that includes removing the seats and the full conversion from every day driver to camper mode. Cheers!
You did a great build and video!
Thank you so much!
This made me wonder if my folding pet ramp would work as a bed foundation. It's 5'9" long and 17" wide. So not ideal for taller folks. I am 6' so it could work. And after measuring, it could even work in my Outback. It's very portable, folds flat, low profile (~3"), and has plenty of weight rating (500 lbs). With a modest-width and thickness foam mattress, it could work very well. I also have an old Thule cargo box. Hmm...the gears are turning.
Thumbs up for an inspiring video!
Great ideas! Comfort is partly about mindset and sounds like you have the right attitude. Give it a try. Cheers!
Oh wonderful! I do have a question! Is that the mini 5" or the 7" height for your trunk mate? Fairy lights are the best, and you are living the dream!
I wonder if the height option is new. I don't remember selecting a height. Nevertheless, I just measured and mine are 7" in height. Thanks for the kind words. Cheers!
Great video. Loved how you showed everything. I’d love to see the rear door mosquito net and double cot. As tall as you are do you feel cramped inside?
Thanks! I’m hopefully recording a new vid with the double sleeper setup this weekend. 😀
I am overall really happy and don’t feel cramped sleeping or if i need to spend a few hours inside hiding out from the rain. I recognize the minivan camper setup isn’t for everyone. Some folks would need a bigger vehicle to not feel cramped.
Here's a new vid with the double bed sleeping configuration. Cheers! th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
am interested in the van especially the seat removal of the 23
The 2nd row seats are easily removable in the '23. I'll probably add a video that shows the complete transition from daily driver to camper. That will include removing the 2nd row seats. In the meantime, there are a few vids already on TH-cam that show hot to remove them. As for the 3rd row, I know it's POSSIBLE to remove them but I opted to keep it simple. When I'm solo traveling, I fold one down and leave the other up for me to sit in (aka my "living room"). When both my wife and I are traveling, I fold both 3rd row seats down. Cheeers!
The trunkmate bed is nice and simple, but I did hear the wood squeaking when you were on it. Does the noise make it hard to fall asleep? Thanks for sharing all these ideas.
Hi Susan, Thanks for the kind words. I've always slept great on the Trunk Mate bed. I don't remember any squeaking but I'm going to be setting it up for the season later this week and will take note if I hear any squeaks and update this comment. Cheers!
Yes double bed
Here’s the double bed setup video.
th-cam.com/video/ILP-y7Hrqrs/w-d-xo.html
I love your bed where did you purchase the fram
Thanks! t’s made by Trunk-Mate. There’s a link in the video description.
@@Justin_Hikes TY
Great video im 6'3 as well and have the 23. Can you send link for the hitch and roof rack? Mine disnt come with ether of them. Are they post mods? Thanks for your help
Thanks! The link to Thule rooftop cargo carrier is in the video Description. I also just added a link to the Trailer Hitch Cargo Carrier that I use for more storage when my wife and I travel together.
As for the actual trailer hitch and roof rack... I had the hitch installed at my local UHaul. I don't have a link to the exact one they installed. My minivan didn't come with the roof rails and crossbars either. I had the Honda dealership install the Honda factory rails and crossbars after I bought it. I'm happy with them so far.
Hope that helps! Best of luck!
hey justin i was wondering if this had the climate control option where u can turn on the heater or ac overnight like the toyota sienna
Unfortunately, the Honda Odyssey doesn't have that option. I seriously considered buying the Toyota Sienna, primarily because it is a hybrid and gets better gas mileage than the Odyssey. However, I didn't like that you cannot remove the 2nd row seats on the newer Sienna. Also, it was nearly impossible to buy a new Sienna last summer when I was in the market to buy a minivan. You had to get on a waiting list and pay extra "market adjustment" fees. I still think the Sienna is a great minvan for camping but those are the reasons I went with the Odyssey. Cheers!
🎉🎉🎉
Thanks!
Please show your screen setup. I also have an Odyssey and the screens I bought don’t fit. Thanks
I’ll get a vid out about the screens after my next trip. Thanks!
What is the width and length of the Trunk mate bed? Thank you for the video. Blessings to you.
Hi! My minivan has exactly 48 inches of available width. I have two Trunk Mate beds, each 24 inches in width. This video shows my solo setup, so I only have the one bed installed here. The length is adjustable. I have another video on my channel where I show I install them both and give some details about the measurements. That might be helpful for you. Also, the guys at Trunk Mate are great at answering questions if you contact them. Best of luck!
@@Justin_Hikes Thank you for your response.
@Justin_Hikes thanks for creating this video! What size is your Thule motion XT cargo box? Large? Xlarge?
The Thule Motion XT cargo box is an XL. I was initially considering going with the Large but I'm glad I got the Extra Large. It's plenty big but not too big. Thanks! Cheers!
@@Justin_HikesCool. How are the factory cross bars holding up with a cargo box of that size?
@vinny81604 I did over 5,000 miles on this road trip and they seem fine as far as I can tell.
Want to live in my car in the woods but I'm 6'1 with a civic but I've been thinking of selling it to get an Odyssey
Right on! A civic is a bit small for people of our size. Haha. An Odyssey or any full size minivan would be doable. Best of luck to you. Cheers!
A campaign cot with a memory foam mattress would’ve been cheaper than the bed frame you bought AND more comfortable too 😂😂😂 Sorry but they took you to the laundry by paying $599 for that frame 😂😂😂 Besides, the cot has more space underneath for duffel bags and gear!
foam mattress looks great can you tell me which one
Sure! I have an Amazon link to the mattress in the video description.
Can you drop a link for the screan for the back of the van?
Good idea. I just updated the video description with links to the gear I am using in this minivan camper. The link for screen for the back of the van is listed as "Tailgate Mesh Net." I'll create another video at some point that shows all the screens I'm using during warm weather. Thanks!
I have a Honda odyssey mini van and I went to the trunkmate website and it’s asking all kinds of different configurations. Can you exactly tell me what options you all put in so I can order mines. I use mines for work and going camping so I use it for both uses.
Hi Marie. I have the Regular Height with No Wood Treatment Finish. I have the 2nd row seats removed so I chose "2nd Row Seats Removed" for the "2nd Row Seat Configuration" section. For "Vehicle Information" make sure you include your year, make and model and the Trunk Mate guys will make sure you get the correct Bed Support package. You can also email or call them and let them know you are uncertain which configuration to select and they can guide you through it. That's what I did initially and they answered all my questions. Their email address is hello@trunk-mate.com. Best of luck to you!
Or you could just put a full size mattress on the floor without a bed platform. You have more headroom and feel less claustrophobic.
Can you install a rooftop AC with 30amp shore plug?
I don't know but it sure would come in handy sometimes. Cheers Chul!
Where is your spare tire? I have a 2015 Odyssey, the spare is under the floor. Do I just have to unload the works on the side of the road?😩
Hi, the spare tire is beneath the floor just behind the front row seats. Probably the same location as your 2015. It won't be fun to get it out but it would only take a few minutes. Remove the cooler and fold up the bed enough to clear room to access the spare. That's one of the nice things about this bed. It's simple to fold up when needed. Cheers!
What made you decide to get an Odyssey and not a Sienna Hybrid? The Sienna would have given you much better gas mileage.
Great question! I used to own a Sienna and I would have been happy to buy another. There were two problems:
1.) I wanted to buy a new vehicle but there were no Sienna's available. You had to get on a waiting list and pay extra fees if you wanted one.
2.) The 2nd row seats are not removable in the newer Sienna's. As a tall person, I need to be able to remove the seats and have access to the maximum amount of available space.
I definitely would have enjoyed the better mileage in the Sienna. I'm getting about 27 MPG in the Odyssey. It's not as good as a hybrid but I've had worse! :) Cheers!
@@Justin_Hikes Do you know if the seats of the Sienna fold flat? That way you could sleep on top of them. I see a lot of people taking seats out and always wonder if it's for space or bc it's not good for the seats to be slept on if they are folded down. Either way, the gas mileage is much better than I thought
The Sienna seats fold but do not fold flat. They can be pushed up quite a bit so they are nearly flush with the front seats. I was really disappointed because my old Sienna allowed easy removal of the 2nd row seats and it seems weird to remove that useful feature. You can probably find TH-cam vids that show you how the Sienna seats fold. It might be good enough for you.
@@Justin_Hikes Yeah. I'm in California. So I'm looking for good gas mileage and I also like the range. But the Odyssey is definitely better when it comes to flexibility with the seats and setup
If your wife is with you, what kind of toilet do you have and where you keep it?
Good question. I don’t carry a toilet. We’re generally sleeping in campgrounds which have their own bathrooms. Sometimes I park in dispersed National Forest lands. In that case, the bathroom is the great outdoors, just like when I’m backpacking.👍
What I hate about my minivan is how low it sits to the road. And I see yours is the same. I am so sick of coming out of a stores parking lot and scraping the front end on the cement. I have actually ripped off a plastic thing underneath that I had to remove. Yeah I think my next vehicle is gonna be an SUV of some kind. I would like to get Something four-wheel-drive. Your wife is blessed that she can travel alone. I am 59 years old and I’ve been married ever since I was 20. I just feel like I’m in Marriage jail. I hate the fact that I left one Dad in married another one. I cannot wait till this life is over when I will have nobody telling me what I can and what I cannot do. I’m so freaking over it
You said no build!
Are you referring to the bed? I didn’t say “No Buy.” I’m happy with the bed. For me it was a worthwhile investment.