You prove that keeping it simple is best. Too many folks are trying to replicate a house on the road instead of doing a paradigm shift and working with the elements and one's needs. Great video.
Sleeping in a car is certainly better thsn sleeping on the ground but i would prefer motel rooms. It is much safer to rent a motel room to stay in when traveling . Also at least travel with someone else along. This staying in a car across the country is uncomfortably dangerous to me.
When I go camping and trecking across the U.S. National Parks, I sleep in my car as well. Being a female solo traveler, I feel safer sleeping in my car, especially since I have an alarm. My set up is low maintenance as well and since I'm 5'2 110 lbs, I have plenty of comfortable sleeping space. Thank you for sharing your set up. I got some really good ideas.
Your description and comment are the thing this video lack... Sleeping in your car is OK and camping in your car is OK too, but to call your car a tiny home is such a stretch of the imagination it puts the video on a totally alternate reality from the description. ("True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House")
I'm looking to try camping and road trips when I get a 4runner and my main concern right now is to be able to sleep in it. But, I'm 6' 9", and while it's doable, I just have to figure out how to do it and make it work for ME. I am really not interested in building shelves and being more fancy like many seem to be on TH-cam. I'm a pretty simplistic lifestyle type, though I do tend to be as prepared for different situations as I can be. I guess I get that from the time I was in the Boy Scouts.
I like extensive comprehensive vids like this, instead of a ton of short vids i have to hunt for. Can learn a lot from an experienced camper, lots of good tips & product recommendations too
I usually do the same thing. Or a bunch of bottled waters. Did that on a trip to Tennessee and there was still ice water in a relatively cheap cooler 3 and a half days later.
Great video! If you slide the front seats fwd, remove the head rests, and recline the seats all the way back, the seats will lay flat. You probably know this, but others may not. Awesome job with setting up your RAV!
Great video . Two additions that people should think about adding #1 a fire extinguisher and #2 bear spray . Especially if you're sleeping with food inside . Also good for warding off two legged critters . Safe travels .
I've been looking at converted SUV videos for remote trips out west for several months now. I have a Honda CRV that I am converting and like you, I do not want to make any changes to it that cannot be undone. This video is absolutely the best one I have viewed. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and taking the time to make the video so informative and easy to watch.
I enjoy watching SUV RVing's channel. This is a great example of "starting where you are". There is no "need" to purchase an expensive RV or build out a cargo van or have a solar set-up. We all have bins, bags, boards & paracords lying around, If not, you can get them from friends or the thrift store. Add solar later. Just a bit of organization in your vehicle and go!!!!!! Watch out for bears and thanks for sharing :-)
Shemaj Ragin - You are exactly right! I bought an extended cargo van and intended to build it out into a stealth camper. It never happened due to time constraints with my working schedule and eventually realizing the large van was expensive on gas, expensive to maintain and difficult to find parking for. It's almost 8 years later and now I am selling the van because I bought a 2019 Kia Soul. Yes it's small, but it is sporty, compact, fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, easy to maintain, easy to find parking and I can recline the passenger seat all the way back to stretch out almost level for sleeping. With a roof cargo carrier I can bring a tent, camp table and chairs, tools, camp stove thus leaving room for my clothes and toiletries, computer, food all inside the car after folding down the back seats. And above all, it is very stealthy. I like the challenge of using small things that do a big job.
Have Van Must Travel a Kia Soul.....you will have to stay in only paved campgrounds.....as those vehicles have NO ROAD CLEARANCE whatsoever.....no thanks!
His videos are great! I slowly became a big fan the last few weeks, I’ve taken a 15.5k miles cross continent road trip in my 2000 RAV4 with the back seats removed for 6.5 feet of flat sleeping space and I was amazed to find someone doing the exact setup and things I do as Tristan is!
Chris,This was now awesome, I used to be like this. Totally minimalistic, but now retired, still interested in camping but small. No rowing. Definately no towing. Just bought my litl RAV Exactly like yours.
24:46 If you think about it, your setup is kind of similar to the space station in a lot of ways. Everything is secured in place and everything has its place. It contains all of the necessities, it's modular, well organized and concise. I dig it.
Idk how anyone can give you a thumbs down on your vids. This is my fav vid of yours because you go in depth on your ideas and thoughts when it comes to your suv camping. And you sum it up with actual demo setup. Awesome. I have a 2014 Honda Pilot 4x4 and am shocked at how little vids are out there using this suv as a camper. I use it for 2 to 4 day weekend excursions. I’m still trying to find my perfect setup, but your vids are very informative and are helping me with ideas. Thanks!
Thanks Chris. My rav4 is a year older than yours so you gave me me some good ideas how to set it up without having to take seats out or do any damage to my vehicle for resale purposes.
Thanks Cris. I happily travel in an even smaller Pontiac Vibe. I've had 100 000 km of road trips so far . I have a very similar set up as yours but I use a REI air mattress. I bathe with a warm wet hand towel. I wear a rubber glove be and use a small juice bottle of water for a bidet.. Before getting into my sleeping bag I wash my feet. I do not need a shower. Whenever I eat at a fast-food joint I wish I hadn't. After cooking a good breakfast with coffee I am ready for the road. I now dream of driving the Demster highway to the Arctic Ocean. George Paget ,Vancouver BC
Chris, you are such an inspiration to me, too often I have heard but not listened to the ones who lack the foresight and imagination. So happy to see you go for it my RAV & I will follow you
Wow, I am so glad I found your video! I have thought all this while, I’d need to do the whole van conversion. However, I have a CRV, and now I see all my possibilities! I love the half width cargo boxes, the solar idea for it. I know as well, I can figure that out, too. So glad to see the “non-drill” method, as I’d want to keep the car body pristine for resale. I have 100’s of ideas whirling now, and know my CRV is all I need. Thank you so much! I’m going to go hit subscribe now! 😎
Hi from Russia, I liked your toilet idea with a small chair! Will do the same with one of four I have! As I am mostly travelling off road to forest aria, I don't really need privacy tent, but the multi purpose two seconds chair transformer is a great improvment for doing this business in a likely home comfort! I think I will also make an owning tarp like yours. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Great presentation -- for your misc storage in back-- I found underbed plastic DRAWERS worked great -- didn't have to move one tub to get to the tub underneath- I camp RAV 4 also
I do at least one road trip a year to go visit friends and family, and I usually find myself car camping a couple or few days/nights, but this video has inspired me to pack up my SUV (just got a new 22 VW Taos last month) so it’s ‘ready” for me to jump in the car and take off for a few days and go exploring. Love the shelf across the back and can see that set up def working for me. Thank you so much!!!
Great video. That is the simplest, most functional toilet setup I've seen after several hours of watching Tristan, Bob Wells, et al. I'm making my first trip next week -- very excited! I noticed that most people use wooden frames for shelves. I think that pvc pipe would be a lot lighter. You could assemble it to fit the tubs so they just drop into place. I like someone's suggestion about drawers to fit underneath.
Nice set up. Everything you need and most of what you want. Comfort is essential. I'm downsizing from my now deceased selfbuild campervan (RIP) to a small hatchback. Im enjoying setting it up for camping.
Have a 96 RAV4, phenomenal vehicle. Taken and stayed in it on long road trips. 30 + MPG. Parts are cheap including complete replacement lo mileage engines from Japan. Less than $800. 340K miles total still going strong. The key is to keep up on the maintenance.
You've created a great video for turning a SUV into a practical living space while on the road. That was a great added bonus with you sharing the travel / navigation information too. This is the best all around video I've seen for practical long term living while on the road. Great stuff, thanks!
I'm thinking of trying this when I get a 4runner. To go camping, eventually for 5 days or so, and to go on road trips/travel. And if possible, to sleep in the back. Thanks for the video. In the process of learning as much as I can.
I'm currently building my 06 AWD Rav4! I opted to remove the back seats, may still take out the front passenger seat. Already built a full platform from 3/4" plywood and covered with outdoor carpet (no padding) and just finished back window covers/insulation of eva foam. 2021 is gonna be SO GREAT!!
So many great ideas that will change my life for the better. The kitty litter idea is gold, I love it! I wish I found your channel 4 years ago when I first started living in my car. Your video is full of amazing things that will make my life a lot better. I can't say thank you enough. Thank you million times and more. Subscribing and thumb up for sure.
Great setup. For the showering, I saw another video where there was a suggestion of getting a small sprayer with a wand and paint the container part black. Set the sprayer in the sun to heat the water.
Thank you for taking the time and giving us so many ideas. I usually hesitant to buy less expensive equipment and what you have is very versatile and space saving. Happy Trails!
I'm thinking about the same. I work 12 h a day 2 h at the gym.and 2 h eating outside. I'm home only 8 h a day. Why should I pay rent while I only use my place to sleep
THANKS CHRIS! I won't be as all-in with my RAV4 as yours. But, you are the only conversion that I saw for RAV4 with bed below a shelf. That is a winner for me, as I need that half shelf in rear for tall cooler and other stuff. Cheers from Baja California, Doc.
He has a very unique layout of his sleeping space. Most people try to build their sleeping platforms higher so they can get space underneath. He kept his headroom by building storage above his feet. That is a great idea. He has all of his systems well thought out. Great video Chris.
I'm glad you liked the video! Apart from the headroom issue like you mentioned (which is a big issue), it's just easier to build a shelf than it is an entire sleeping platform. Easier to remove from the car too, and the rear seats are still usable. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for sharing, Chris! I recently started overland camping or car camping several months ago, mainly due to age (72) as long distance trekking became more difficult. I started by just throwing my backpack in the Jeep Compass but comfort was lacking. Slowly, I added comfort items with the latest being a 2 inch Teton sleeping pad that hunters use in base camp. That will replace a Coleman cot or a tent cot set up outside the Jeep. A great night of sleep makes the experience much more enjoyable. Anyway, you've given me some ideas on improving my set up. Your simple camp stool idea is ingenious. My big round toilet seat bucket takes up too much room plus I have to find a disposal spot...definitely a pain in the ass. Sorry. I improvised an awning draping a 10X10 Aqua Quest silnylon tarp over the open rear hatch door using guy lines to secure that end and tent poles and guy lines for the other end. It provides protection from the sun and rain (or snow). I can set up my kitchen and sitting area plus a portable fire pit which doubles for barbecuing. Thank you for the great tips on storage!
Thanks so much for this video. I have a RAV4 I am considering converting and this sheds a light on possible solutions.Minus the plastic and the disposable , not a possibility if I want a cleaner planet.
WOW.. Awesome video.. I have the same blue cooler that you have.. I removed the screws from the led so I could access it from either side..Wheather you are in side or out.. That really comes in handy.. Thank you for sharing.
Good stuff - How about making a fold down table mounted on the inside of your tailgate mate - That a plus rear awning/tarp and your kitchen area is vastly improved.
Didn't think I needed the cargo roof top box until I considered where I'd store my poop! 😂 Another option for the shelf inside the back, instead of building a frame I am using just the cargo cover that came with the car, it has two cross beams and I put a thin sheet of plywood on top of it for the shelf. My plan is to rig a fold-up base that I can then put the shelf on outside the car when I need a table for cooking (I often stay at rec sites that have picnic tables so it would just be needed occasionally). Double duty.
Superb video Chris. This guy is articulate, organized and informative. Full of great information. Love his hanging table. I'm going to watch it again and make sure I've taken good notes. I'll be camping in a truck with a topper, so not quite the same but looking to stay compact and dual purpose. His advice to go camping and figure out what gear you need is excellent. Thanks!
Creative use of a small SUV! However, worried about your health! Working for a large food company, I can tell you that I recommend putting your food in a ice chest or insulated cooler, even if there's no ice. Food that's shelf stable should be stored at room temperature (65-85 degrees) and the chemicals and preservatives are not designed to handle the built-up in car temperatures. Definitely don't want this guy to get sick from eating spoiled foods.
I have a 2013 Toyota Rav4. You have inspired me a year ago and love getting my ideas from you. I am 61 years young and will be retiring soon. Thank you.
Thank you sooo much for sharing all of your tips! Being a solo female doing roadtrips with just my dog and myself, it's definitely a challenge to be comfortable and economical at the same time. Looking forward to copying some of these ideas!
I couldn't believe I had watched this for a whole hour, when I paused it and looked at the time. This guy is so like me, I alter almost everything I encounter in life I think and his comment about altering gear just cracked me up.
Great video. I am watching you and thinking McGyver. I have a RAV4 incidentally. I'm just getting comfortable understanding the tech terminology, building a bed without removing the back seats and understanding the Jackery. I've already picked out my location for my first trip, only a weekend and about 2.5 hrs away but its a start. Thanks for taking the time to share some good tips, I appreciate it.
You need one of those rectangular storage racks that connects to your trailer hitch. It would give you even more storage and wouldnt hurt your mpg too much.
I like the frugal solutions. Too often you get expensive solutions mentioned. On a side note... i'm an alcohol stove guy. They're not suitable for simmering. I'vd the same chair and fold up table, they're awesome. 👍👑 And the pop up shower tent. Cool setup and thanks for sharing your solutions!
Thanks for taking the time to do this vid and explain everything so well! I've been considering doing this for a while and having recently bought a RAV4, and now seeing your video - it's game on! Although currently in COVID lockdown here in NZ, so can't get out yet - but lots of time for researching and planning. Thanks again and travel well!
My nephew Andy & his wife Anna are the creators of Gaia😎 I’m camperizing my Gen 4 Toyota Four Runner with 4WD. So thank you for all this great info for SUV Camping. Not very many folks do SUV or car camping so info is scarce. Thanks again!
Thank you for this video, I liked the detail on everything and your well spoken. You have a lot of great ideas to save space. I have watched videos on van conversion and a lot of them are over the top. I've hiked some of the Appalachian Trail and have come to realize just how little one needs. Thanks Michael. P.S. I want to figure out the solar power sometime soon. I will watch more of your videos .
My car died, and I'm car shopping tomorrow. The late model Siennas are so expensive, so this may work better. I live in a small city, so the Rav4 is more practice for every day. Great video!
Fantastic video! Thank you SO much for taking the time to explain everything. You have helped me out so much with tips, tricks, and ideas. Happy and safe travels to you! Cheers
If the reflectics are reversible to one side of the vehicle and the other (right to left) or symetrical, it would be great to paint one side black and flip them depending on needed use.
Love the set up...well thought out for sure...I was ready to hit the road in my Yukon GMC...lots of space once the seats are removed...but unfortunately my three beautiful grand daughters were met with great misfortune and wow, how my life turned around overnight...I had to satisfy the courts by moving into a four bedroom townhome as they haven't caught up yet to "tiny living"...LOL...but no regrets...we now are the proud owners of a school bus that is in for a roof raise right now...hope to see you on the road and say hello...great tour and great set up...very clever in his storage and modifying " things" ...safe travels!
Great video! I am taking my first month-long solo road trip from Montana to New Mexico, up California to Olympic National Park WA, and then ending back in Montana. I got some good ideas watching this for my RAV. Cheers mate!
for bug screens I'd get a roll of that magnetic strips from Michael's and cut screens bigger to cover outside of window and have magnet strips holding down all sides. great video. When our 4 kids were little we'd go camping in our suburban. With 2 dogs. Top would hold 2 top carriers! We'd take out the middle seat and had room for ice chest and dogs. The girls and dogs slept in the car. Can't trust dogs with squrrels around! My Daughter has a Rav 4 doesn't have a very big gas tank for long drives.
Thanks for taking the time to share your setup with us. Very inspiring. Since you spend a lot of time in the desert, good idea to carry all that extra water. But what if the problem that left you stranded outlasted your water supply? I am a mountain hiker and carry a PLB on all my hikes. Never needed it, but it's good insurance, just in case. You might want to look into carrying a PLB with you, as well.
Great video, you have organized your space really well! Love that you are able to engineer a product that fits your need specifically. One thing I found interesting, for being such an outdoor person, you generate a lot of waste.... especially plastic.
Totally love that idea with using piping tied to the roof rails for the awning. I've been thinking how to best do mine and now I know thanks to you. Great video with some great advice. Dave from the UK
I have 1/2 inch foam board insulation cut to fit the windows to add to insulation. The don't fold but they don't take up that much more room. I have watched you for several years. I also have taken out many things from my first trips. It's hard to know what to take at first.
Super tour. Thanks. I bought Tristan’s book and hope the solar info has been added. I’m totally solar challenged. I subscribe to SUVRVing and have learned a ton. Down to earth, real, interesting and no bs. Super. Thanks again.
Hi Cyn. No, the book doesn't cover anything solar-related, but you're in luck! Tomorrow I'm posting a full video of how I built my little solar setup, so be sure to check that out.
Thanks for the tip about pcv pipe with screws through it with WINGNUTS!!! to secure the fly/tarp on the vehicle side!!! Brilliant idea!
You prove that keeping it simple is best. Too many folks are trying to replicate a house on the road instead of doing a paradigm shift and working with the elements and one's needs. Great video.
Sleeping in a car is certainly better thsn sleeping on the ground but i would prefer motel rooms. It is much safer to rent a motel room to stay in when traveling . Also at least travel with someone else along. This staying in a car across the country is uncomfortably dangerous to me.
When I go camping and trecking across the U.S. National Parks, I sleep in my car as well. Being a female solo traveler, I feel safer sleeping in my car, especially since I have an alarm. My set up is low maintenance as well and since I'm 5'2 110 lbs, I have plenty of comfortable sleeping space. Thank you for sharing your set up. I got some really good ideas.
Deanna Perez i
Your description and comment are the thing this video lack... Sleeping in your car is OK and camping in your car is OK too, but to call your car a tiny home is such a stretch of the imagination it puts the video on a totally alternate reality from the description. ("True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House")
Deanna Perez , where do you park to sleep? Does it have to be rv camping place or can u park anywhere and sleep in Colorado
I'm looking to try camping and road trips when I get a 4runner and my main concern right now is to be able to sleep in it. But, I'm 6' 9", and while it's doable, I just have to figure out how to do it and make it work for ME. I am really not interested in building shelves and being more fancy like many seem to be on TH-cam. I'm a pretty simplistic lifestyle type, though I do tend to be as prepared for different situations as I can be. I guess I get that from the time I was in the Boy Scouts.
I am a single "older" traveler with a RAV4. Wondered about your "alarm". Do you mean the key fob?
"The gear is here to serve MY purpose.... not what it wants me to do" - - love it!
Chris, this is the single most thorough SUV Camping Video I have viewed on TH-cam. Fantastic Job. Thank you so much.
I have watched SUV living Vldeos for years and years and I have watched this Video 3 times.
I like extensive comprehensive vids like this, instead of a ton of short vids i have to hunt for. Can learn a lot from an experienced camper, lots of good tips & product recommendations too
I’m preparing for my first solo road trip with sleeping in my car and your video is the best information video I’ve seen yet. Thank you so much.
For ice...freeze water in 2 ltr soft drink bottles. They stay frozen for so long you won't believe it.
I usually do the same thing. Or a bunch of bottled waters. Did that on a trip to Tennessee and there was still ice water in a relatively cheap cooler 3 and a half days later.
Not possiable if you are living in your car.
@@pennylowe8713 It depends on where you're located.
Remember to freeze the water with the lids OFF or it can burst the bottle.
I reckon that's a great idea when you're setting off for a trip, and your ice becomes another bit of your water supply.
Great video! If you slide the front seats fwd, remove the head rests, and recline the seats all the way back, the seats will lay flat. You probably know this, but others may not. Awesome job with setting up your RAV!
Thanks I didn't know that
They don't lay all the way flat I tried doing this camping one time and I couldn't sleep
Holy crap I've been following Tristan for a long time and never saw this video. He is incredible. 😊
Great video . Two additions that people should think about adding #1 a fire extinguisher and #2 bear spray . Especially if you're sleeping with food inside . Also good for warding off two legged critters . Safe travels .
Stan Watkins Yuit il IPO io IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO
@Huxley Harter why will 🐻 spray kill you? 😅
Dq
Perhaps use the same for both lol
I've been looking at converted SUV videos for remote trips out west for several months now. I have a Honda CRV that I am converting and like you, I do not want to make any changes to it that cannot be undone. This video is absolutely the best one I have viewed. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and taking the time to make the video so informative and easy to watch.
I enjoy watching SUV RVing's channel. This is a great example of "starting where you are". There is no "need" to purchase an expensive RV or build out a cargo van or have a solar set-up. We all have bins, bags, boards & paracords lying around, If not, you can get them from friends or the thrift store. Add solar later. Just a bit of organization in your vehicle and go!!!!!! Watch out for bears and thanks for sharing :-)
Thanks Shemaj!
Shemaj Ragin - You are exactly right! I bought an extended cargo van and intended to build it out into a stealth camper. It never happened due to time constraints with my working schedule and eventually realizing the large van was expensive on gas, expensive to maintain and difficult to find parking for. It's almost 8 years later and now I am selling the van because I bought a 2019 Kia Soul. Yes it's small, but it is sporty, compact, fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, easy to maintain, easy to find parking and I can recline the passenger seat all the way back to stretch out almost level for sleeping. With a roof cargo carrier I can bring a tent, camp table and chairs, tools, camp stove thus leaving room for my clothes and toiletries, computer, food all inside the car after folding down the back seats. And above all, it is very stealthy. I like the challenge of using small things that do a big job.
Have Van Must Travel a Kia Soul.....you will have to stay in only paved campgrounds.....as those vehicles have NO ROAD CLEARANCE whatsoever.....no thanks!
@@SUVRVing I'm looking into moving in my 2007 PT Curser and you have given me ideas and hope thank you 🙏
His videos are great! I slowly became a big fan the last few weeks, I’ve taken a 15.5k miles cross continent road trip in my 2000 RAV4 with the back seats removed for 6.5 feet of flat sleeping space and I was amazed to find someone doing the exact setup and things I do as Tristan is!
Chris,This was now awesome, I used to be like this. Totally minimalistic, but now retired, still interested in camping but small. No rowing. Definately no towing. Just bought my litl RAV Exactly like yours.
24:46 If you think about it, your setup is kind of similar to the space station in a lot of ways. Everything is secured in place and everything has its place. It contains all of the necessities, it's modular, well organized and concise. I dig it.
10:30 Probably the best advice he gave, that I haven't seen anyone else giving.
Love this. No BS. No Frills. Just living free as anything.
Idk how anyone can give you a thumbs down on your vids. This is my fav vid of yours because you go in depth on your ideas and thoughts when it comes to your suv camping. And you sum it up with actual demo setup. Awesome. I have a 2014 Honda Pilot 4x4 and am shocked at how little vids are out there using this suv as a camper. I use it for 2 to 4 day weekend excursions. I’m still trying to find my perfect setup, but your vids are very informative and are helping me with ideas. Thanks!
SUV camping is OK, but... True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House?
It's not a tiny home. Love his SUVRVing TH-cam channel.
Thanks Chris. My rav4 is a year older than yours so you gave me me some good ideas how to set it up without having to take seats out or do any damage to my vehicle for resale purposes.
Thanks Cris. I happily travel in an even smaller Pontiac Vibe. I've had 100 000 km of road trips so far . I have a very similar set up as yours but I use a REI air mattress. I bathe with a warm wet hand towel. I wear a rubber glove be and use a small juice bottle of water for a bidet.. Before getting into my sleeping bag I wash my feet. I do not need a shower. Whenever I eat at a fast-food joint I wish I hadn't. After cooking a good breakfast with coffee I am ready for the road.
I now dream of driving the Demster highway to the Arctic Ocean.
George Paget ,Vancouver BC
You are a very resourceful young man with some great ideas. I enjoyed this tour a great deal, thank you for sharing it!
OOOOMGOSH!!!! I WAS HOPING TO SEE SOMEONE WITH A KAYAK AND CARGO CARRIER ON TOP!!!!! THANK YOU!!
Chris, you are such an inspiration to me, too often I have heard but not listened to the ones who lack the foresight and imagination. So happy to see you go for it my RAV & I will follow you
Wow, I am so glad I found your video! I have thought all this while, I’d need to do the whole van conversion. However, I have a CRV, and now I see all my possibilities! I love the half width cargo boxes, the solar idea for it. I know as well, I can figure that out, too. So glad to see the “non-drill” method, as I’d want to keep the car body pristine for resale. I have 100’s of ideas whirling now, and know my CRV is all I need.
Thank you so much! I’m going to go hit subscribe now! 😎
Hi from Russia, I liked your toilet idea with a small chair! Will do the same with one of four I have! As I am mostly travelling off road to forest aria, I don't really need privacy tent, but the multi purpose two seconds chair transformer is a great improvment for doing this business in a likely home comfort! I think I will also make an owning tarp like yours. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Great presentation -- for your misc storage in back-- I found underbed plastic DRAWERS worked great -- didn't have to move one tub to get to the tub underneath- I camp RAV 4 also
Great suggestion, Karen. I'll have to look into that. Thanks for watching. RAV4 owners unite!
I do at least one road trip a year to go visit friends and family, and I usually find myself car camping a couple or few days/nights, but this video has inspired me to pack up my SUV (just got a new 22 VW Taos last month) so it’s ‘ready” for me to jump in the car and take off for a few days and go exploring. Love the shelf across the back and can see that set up def working for me. Thank you so much!!!
U can also spray paint the reflective with black spray paint. I have also seen others sew ribbing around the reflective with magnets sew in.
Great video. That is the simplest, most functional toilet setup I've seen after several hours of watching Tristan, Bob Wells, et al. I'm making my first trip next week -- very excited! I noticed that most people use wooden frames for shelves. I think that pvc pipe would be a lot lighter. You could assemble it to fit the tubs so they just drop into place. I like someone's suggestion about drawers to fit underneath.
Nice set up. Everything you need and most of what you want.
Comfort is essential.
I'm downsizing from my now deceased selfbuild campervan (RIP) to a small hatchback. Im enjoying setting it up for camping.
Hello. I think you really have it down, you've been a big help and i appreciate you. Thank you
Have a 96 RAV4, phenomenal vehicle. Taken and stayed in it on long road trips. 30 + MPG. Parts are cheap including complete replacement lo mileage engines from Japan. Less than $800. 340K miles total still going strong. The key is to keep up on the maintenance.
You've created a great video for turning a SUV into a practical living space while on the road. That was a great added bonus with you sharing the travel / navigation information too. This is the best all around video I've seen for practical long term living while on the road. Great stuff, thanks!
This is the best vid I've ever seen. Thank you so much. From Australia 😁👍
I've always been an RV girl, but lately I'm liking minivan camping better. More freedom, less stress from things going wrong.
I'm thinking of trying this when I get a 4runner. To go camping, eventually for 5 days or so, and to go on road trips/travel. And if possible, to sleep in the back.
Thanks for the video. In the process of learning as much as I can.
Very detailed and organized tour of your set up. I'm really impressed with the amount of thought you've given to each feature. Very cool!
Thank you for stopping me from over prepping and ending up with heaps of stuff that I’ll maybe only use once or twice. Great advice! Love the toilet
I'm currently building my 06 AWD Rav4! I opted to remove the back seats, may still take out the front passenger seat. Already built a full platform from 3/4" plywood and covered with outdoor carpet (no padding) and just finished back window covers/insulation of eva foam. 2021 is gonna be SO GREAT!!
I appreciate your SUV tour, yet all other SUV tours, as well Tristan.
FYI: Bears have mastered opening car doors to see what goodies are inside. Be sure to lock your doors at night.
So many great ideas that will change my life for the better. The kitty litter idea is gold, I love it! I wish I found your channel 4 years ago when I first started living in my car. Your video is full of amazing things that will make my life a lot better. I can't say thank you enough. Thank you million times and more. Subscribing and thumb up for sure.
Great setup. For the showering, I saw another video where there was a suggestion of getting a small sprayer with a wand and paint the container part black. Set the sprayer in the sun to heat the water.
Coolest guy on the planet! Thanks for the pointers! I'm looking to do this very thing. Nicely done. The whole episode! Safe travels!
Best video I've seen on living on the road. I now have the confidence to give this a try. Been itching to travel for a very long time.
Thank you for taking the time and giving us so many ideas. I usually hesitant to buy less expensive equipment and what you have is very versatile and space saving. Happy Trails!
Great set up. Thanks for the full tour. Really well thought out!!!!!
Jane and her wacky sidekick Lola, the Boston Terrier
I'm thinking about the same. I work 12 h a day 2 h at the gym.and 2 h eating outside. I'm home only 8 h a day. Why should I pay rent while I only use my place to sleep
Do it for a year and save that money.
i like how organized you are. looks so neat.
You are extremely organized sir! God bless
Wow. Your video is so detailed and your ideas, so cleverly simple ! I also have a RAV4 2011, identical as yours but black. Merci !!!
THANKS CHRIS! I won't be as all-in with my RAV4 as yours. But, you are the only conversion that I saw for RAV4 with bed below a shelf. That is a winner for me, as I need that half shelf in rear for tall cooler and other stuff. Cheers from Baja California, Doc.
He has a very unique layout of his sleeping space. Most people try to build their sleeping platforms higher so they can get space underneath. He kept his headroom by building storage above his feet. That is a great idea. He has all of his systems well thought out. Great video Chris.
I'm glad you liked the video! Apart from the headroom issue like you mentioned (which is a big issue), it's just easier to build a shelf than it is an entire sleeping platform. Easier to remove from the car too, and the rear seats are still usable. Thanks for watching.
Thank you for sharing, Chris! I recently started overland camping or car camping several months ago, mainly due to age (72) as long distance trekking became more difficult. I started by just throwing my backpack in the Jeep Compass but comfort was lacking. Slowly, I added comfort items with the latest being a 2 inch Teton sleeping pad that hunters use in base camp. That will replace a Coleman cot or a tent cot set up outside the Jeep. A great night of sleep makes the experience much more enjoyable. Anyway, you've given me some ideas on improving my set up. Your simple camp stool idea is ingenious. My big round toilet seat bucket takes up too much room plus I have to find a disposal spot...definitely a pain in the ass. Sorry. I improvised an awning draping a 10X10 Aqua Quest silnylon tarp over the open rear hatch door using guy lines to secure that end and tent poles and guy lines for the other end. It provides protection from the sun and rain (or snow).
I can set up my kitchen and sitting area plus a portable fire pit which doubles for barbecuing. Thank you for the great tips on storage!
Thanks so much for this video. I have a RAV4 I am considering converting and this sheds a light on possible solutions.Minus the plastic and the disposable , not a possibility if I want a cleaner planet.
WOW.. Awesome video.. I have the same blue cooler that you have.. I removed the screws from the led so I could access it from either side..Wheather you are in side or out.. That really comes in handy.. Thank you for sharing.
Good stuff - How about making a fold down table mounted on the inside of your tailgate mate - That a plus rear awning/tarp and your kitchen area is vastly improved.
Didn't think I needed the cargo roof top box until I considered where I'd store my poop! 😂 Another option for the shelf inside the back, instead of building a frame I am using just the cargo cover that came with the car, it has two cross beams and I put a thin sheet of plywood on top of it for the shelf. My plan is to rig a fold-up base that I can then put the shelf on outside the car when I need a table for cooking (I often stay at rec sites that have picnic tables so it would just be needed occasionally). Double duty.
I liked the toilet idea 💡
I already had the chair 🙂
Now I'll build my own toilet 🙂
Thanks so much.
You are full of great inexpensive ideas. I love the toilet idea....genius!
Superb video Chris. This guy is articulate, organized and informative. Full of great information. Love his hanging table. I'm going to watch it again and make sure I've taken good notes. I'll be camping in a truck with a topper, so not quite the same but looking to stay compact and dual purpose. His advice to go camping and figure out what gear you need is excellent. Thanks!
Creative use of a small SUV! However, worried about your health! Working for a large food company, I can tell you that I recommend putting your food in a ice chest or insulated cooler, even if there's no ice. Food that's shelf stable should be stored at room temperature (65-85 degrees) and the chemicals and preservatives are not designed to handle the built-up in car temperatures. Definitely don't want this guy to get sick from eating spoiled foods.
I have a 2013 Toyota Rav4. You have inspired me a year ago and love getting my ideas from you. I am 61 years young and will be retiring soon. Thank you.
Very smart, the toilet/chair is the best innovation I seen of all time, of all categories
Agree 100% on starting with nothing and camping nearby for a while. I wasted a bunch of money buying stuff I thought I needed.
Many thanks for sharing. Watching from the tropical rainforest of Suriname 🇸🇷👍
"Tiny" is a relative term- it's about living comfortably in a space you're happy with.
Amen to that. My RAV4 is a palace compared to what long-distance backpackers carry on their backs. It works well for me, and I'm happy with it.
5'11" on a good day. Hehe. I'm setting up a Kia Sportage. So exciting.
Thank you sooo much for sharing all of your tips! Being a solo female doing roadtrips with just my dog and myself, it's definitely a challenge to be comfortable and economical at the same time. Looking forward to copying some of these ideas!
Very creative SUV setup... Thanks for the tips! I'm about to buy my first RAV4
I couldn't believe I had watched this for a whole hour, when I paused it and looked at the time. This guy is so like me, I alter almost everything I encounter in life I think and his comment about altering gear just cracked me up.
Thanks. Lots of good ideas, some i may incorporate into my 4/5 month, winter mini van trips
Great video. I am watching you and thinking McGyver. I have a RAV4 incidentally. I'm just getting comfortable understanding the tech terminology, building a bed without removing the back seats and understanding the Jackery. I've already picked out my location for my first trip, only a weekend and about 2.5 hrs away but its a start. Thanks for taking the time to share some good tips, I appreciate it.
Light and simple sounds like a great starting plan. Great tour of your creative ideas.
Awesome information here, thank you!!! I really like your shelf design, and appreciate you sharing your thought process. Excellent post!
Great set up, well thought out and efficient. Love the shelf. So simple and elegant.
I love your solution for the gap behind the seat. Great ideas, thank you.
You need one of those rectangular storage racks that connects to your trailer hitch. It would give you even more storage and wouldnt hurt your mpg too much.
I like the frugal solutions. Too often you get expensive solutions mentioned. On a side note... i'm an alcohol stove guy. They're not suitable for simmering. I'vd the same chair and fold up table, they're awesome. 👍👑 And the pop up shower tent. Cool setup and thanks for sharing your solutions!
Thanks for taking the time to do this vid and explain everything so well! I've been considering doing this for a while and having recently bought a RAV4, and now seeing your video - it's game on! Although currently in COVID lockdown here in NZ, so can't get out yet - but lots of time for researching and planning. Thanks again and travel well!
Now that's what l was looking for - practical Rav4 stuff for the nomad lifestyle.
I will definitely be utilizing some of your ideas! Thanks.....👍🏾
My nephew Andy & his wife Anna are the creators of Gaia😎 I’m camperizing my Gen 4 Toyota Four Runner with 4WD. So thank you for all this great info for SUV Camping. Not very many folks do SUV or car camping so info is scarce. Thanks again!
Thank you for this video, I liked the detail on everything and your well spoken. You have a lot of great ideas to save space. I have watched videos on van conversion and a lot of them are over the top. I've hiked some of the Appalachian Trail and have come to realize just how little one needs. Thanks Michael.
P.S. I want to figure out the solar power sometime soon. I will watch more of your videos .
I like that that gear is to serve you not the other way around.
My car died, and I'm car shopping tomorrow. The late model Siennas are so expensive, so this may work better. I live in a small city, so the Rav4 is more practice for every day. Great video!
This type of camping really uses your creativity to make things work/ You have done a great job.
Fantastic video! Thank you SO much for taking the time to explain everything. You have helped me out so much with tips, tricks, and ideas. Happy and safe travels to you! Cheers
That’s a nice hanging table, great idea 💡 Thanks for sharing!
If the reflectics are reversible to one side of the vehicle and the other (right to left) or symetrical, it would be great to paint one side black and flip them depending on needed use.
Love the set up...well thought out for sure...I was ready to hit the road in my Yukon GMC...lots of space once the seats are removed...but unfortunately my three beautiful grand daughters were met with great misfortune and wow, how my life turned around overnight...I had to satisfy the courts by moving into a four bedroom townhome as they haven't caught up yet to "tiny living"...LOL...but no regrets...we now are the proud owners of a school bus that is in for a roof raise right now...hope to see you on the road and say hello...great tour and great set up...very clever in his storage and modifying " things" ...safe travels!
were you intending to live in a car with three children?
I believe she was intending to until she got blessed with her grandchildren.
I hope the four of you are enjoying your skoolie!
Great video! I am taking my first month-long solo road trip from Montana to New Mexico, up California to Olympic National Park WA, and then ending back in Montana. I got some good ideas watching this for my RAV. Cheers mate!
for bug screens I'd get a roll of that magnetic strips from Michael's and cut screens bigger to cover outside of window and have magnet strips holding down all sides. great video. When our 4 kids were little we'd go camping in our suburban. With 2 dogs. Top would hold 2 top carriers! We'd take out the middle seat and had room for ice chest and dogs. The girls and dogs slept in the car. Can't trust dogs with squrrels around!
My Daughter has a Rav 4 doesn't have a very big gas tank for long drives.
LOVE what you said about gear serving you and not all the way around! Thank you for the ideas!
Thanks for taking the time to share your setup with us. Very inspiring. Since you spend a lot of time in the desert, good idea to carry all that extra water. But what if the problem that left you stranded outlasted your water supply? I am a mountain hiker and carry a PLB on all my hikes. Never needed it, but it's good insurance, just in case. You might want to look into carrying a PLB with you, as well.
Great video, you have organized your space really well! Love that you are able to engineer a product that fits your need specifically. One thing I found interesting, for being such an outdoor person, you generate a lot of waste.... especially plastic.
Totally love that idea with using piping tied to the roof rails for the awning. I've been thinking how to best do mine and now I know thanks to you. Great video with some great advice. Dave from the UK
I have 1/2 inch foam board insulation cut to fit the windows to add to insulation. The don't fold but they don't take up that much more room. I have watched you for several years. I also have taken out many things from my first trips. It's hard to know what to take at first.
Most informative suv camping video I have seen yet. Wonderful practical information. Well done! Thank you!!
So glad you enjoyed it! :)
Super tour. Thanks. I bought Tristan’s book and hope the solar info has been added. I’m totally solar challenged. I subscribe to SUVRVing and have learned a ton. Down to earth, real, interesting and no bs. Super. Thanks again.
Hi Cyn. No, the book doesn't cover anything solar-related, but you're in luck! Tomorrow I'm posting a full video of how I built my little solar setup, so be sure to check that out.
SUV RVing Thanks so much! Just what I need.