I've watched hundreds of build and no-build videos over the years and y'all have ideas I've NEVER seen before. I'm so impressed!!! Y'all are super adorable, too.
@RR Continued This is nice and simple, of course it's a camper, why do you need a designated toilet? People had no toilets in their houses not so long ago. They have a cooking space. This vehicle can go anywhere. Ingenious. Also, who in their right mind wants to go camping in Canada in winter. Even so, those hardy souls who go winter backpacking don't have heaters. They generally carry 4 season sleeping bags. Easy to do with a vehicle, just layer up on down bags and comforters. A car is much more insulated than a tent, so you're not making a lot of sense.
This is just what I need!!! I'm 74 and just starting out. No one will help me do a build as they think I'm nuts, so this even I can do! Thank you from the bottom of my heart ❤️!
Not only was this wildly helpful for me as someone looking at getting a Honda Element but as a person roaming the earth it was really a pleasure watching people be so lovely towards each other while they share something so personal to their journey through life together. So many great tips and a real joy to watch. Thanks for sharing with us.
I'm 78 and travel/camp alone in my Dodge Caravan. My no-build bed for one is 4 large survival cans of pancake mix or dried food as legs at the corners with long shelf boards placed together on 2x4 cross boards that rest on the cans. If I get in trouble I can burn the boards and eat the legs!!! It works great and easy for an old lady to dismantle!
When I saw your swivel table I was like, “Ugh. I know that thing. They run around $1400.” So I was STOKED at your rigging of it. Holy cats, that’s awesome!!! Lots of great ideas, y’all.
YAAAY!!! Finally. Someone with no build ideas that are so perfect for my needs and brilliantly explained. Also your exuberance and comedic timing was inspiring and spot on. I can't wait to implement some of your fantastic ideas. Thank you very much.
I have a 2007 Element that I’ve been plotting a build on for years. This gives me some easy no-build wins that I can knock out in a couple of weekends and hit the trails. Thanks guys!
Possibly the best Van “conversion” video and inspiration for car-camping I have ever watched. I enjoyed all the ideas and notes about what works. The rack beds are brilliant. I had no idea an element could go full flat like that. WHY did Honda stop making them?!? They were so great! Also wanted to share - my mother converted a panel van that we borrowed from my father’s brother’s business. I don’t know how, but she built two fitted beds out of 2 by 4s - with an aisle- they could be removed and put back in the next year. One bed fit around the spare tire that hung on the wall, and the legs had to fit into the concave parts of the metal floor, which had three inch wide stripes, that ran from back to front with alternating raised and low stripes. Four children and two adults - we were each given a particular piece of luggage which she puzzle- pieced under the beds. No more, no less. She had two coolers, one for some kind of drink, usually lemonade which could sit on top of the other cooler that had sandwich ingredients. I was allowed to bring my guitar because it fit perfectly over the spare tire. Each child was allowed a cigar box of personal items. I wrote letters so I had a few mementos and letter writing materials. We drove from Louisiana to the western Adirondack Mountains. We were pulled over once on the NY thruway by a curious and possibly bored trooper. Wanted to know what we were up to with our big silver van with Texas plates (uncle lived in Texas). Dad was driving, when suddenly we heard a loud voice yelling Pull Over! Probably early a.m. dad liked to drive through the night and usually switched with mom at dawn. Anyway, I hope you make many happy memories on your adventures. I love your rig, especially the use of zip ties. Your video is so joyful. Thank you!
After watching this, I really understand why people like the Honda Element for car camping. Using those dunnage racks for bed frames was Brilliant! I’ve watch hundreds if build videos and have never seen anyone use them before. And your solution for the swivel table was great. Probably my two favourite things about the build. Thanks for info on the Yeti and Ecoflow power stations. I’m so used to people using the Jackery, a great, but expensive system, that it’s nice to hear about other brands. Will look into those. Great video! Really useful info. Thanks!
I just purchased my second Honda Element. I bought My original one in 2003 (which I still own) and it has 326k miles and still running like a champ. I found one in Webster Texas at Emmons Auto Plex and could not pass it up.....It was an '08 with only 70 k miles on it so I will leave my older Element in Az at our winter home and now I have my new Element and I dont have to drive a car with all the stupid stopping engine when you stop at a stop light
This was awesome! I have been watching these “no-build” builds for several years and yours was by far the best explained, easiest to adapt/implement, and just fun to watch! Y’all crack me up! You’re adorable and it’s quite obvious y’all enjoy each other-quite refreshing! I have an ‘02 Toyota Sequoia which is alot of room so using your ideas for the restaurant shelving will give me a substantial sitting and storage area I think! I cant do anything for a while yet but lots to ponder and re-design! Thanks!
I have been dreaming the van life idea for several years…I thought not possible because of van prices. You make it look possible to do it without the expensive high top and high priced vans on the market. Thanks for the simple alternative ideas! I must say you two are far more entertaining than 99% of van lifers I’ve seen! You are truly laid back and that is what I want out of this life style! Besides you guys appeal to my quirky sense of humor! Thanks for sharing..much gratitude. Can’t wait to see where you go to next..happy travels🙃
For extra water you could look into PVC pipe used as a storage tank mounted to a roof rack. Also you can use external roof storage units to store extra gear and install extra Jerry cans for H2O in them
I’m like, practically in tears I’ve been trying to find a way to just, make it happen. To just make it a thing and get going. This is exactly that and the excitement and fun you guys have showing off how proud you are of these solutions is just so fucking perfect I love the energy. Every second of the kitchen display I was absolutely matching the excitement I love it I love it I love it 🥰 I wanna go camping with you guys once I get one going 😹
Haha thanks so much. That was the whole point of our “build.” Just make it happen and customize if you want, when you can. We’re super proud of our little Toastie! Hope to see you out there.
I have a 2005 and absolutely love it. I’ll be sad the day I can’t drive it anymore. Honda needs to bring it back with the rising popularity of “van life”. The element was ahead of it’s time! Love the video, guys!
I LOVE this! This is exactly what I’m been trying to explain to my husband that I want to do. We love tent camping, but due to a medical issue I can no long sleep on the ground even with an air mattress. This gets us back into camping & than later down the road we can decide if we want to get a trailer or not. This is actually prefect for weekend getaways.
I've used Dunnage racks for several years for shelving. Am getting ready to make my Subie Outback into a minimalist camper and was scratching my head about wood, measuring, figuring, ugh. This is a great idea. I just want storage on one side and with the rack can adjust easily if I need to tweak as opposed to redoing a wood build out. The racks are so much more versatile. So glad I happened to see this! Great job.
I know, right!? That's how we got the idea. We just couldn't figure out the wood structure and attachment points and all that measuring. It was so much easier, and really nice to be able to remove and replace with our seats when we need to. Thanks for watching, and good luck with your build! Let us know how it goes.
I love the simplicity of this setup. That looks like a great vehicle too. And you two are hilarious! That chemistry and humor between you two is so important I think.
Haha thanks Dan (and Kiko!) Elements are the best. Two thumbs way up. And our setup was surprisingly solid and easy to put together. We highly recommend it
VERY IMPRESSED GUYS!!! We are a Honda Element loving family and watching how you turned yours into a camping pad was nothing short of GENIUS! Loved this idea and makes me wish we still had our MIGHTY E!
Great job!!! I've been watching no build van tours and getting ideas for 4.5 years. Yours is honestly the BEST I've seen! I did a plastic garage shelf in our van. Love your idea!!! I will probably scrap the plastic and try your idea! Thanks!!!
@@kaffeine69 there are two things I found. First, I bought mine in the hardware section of Walmart. They were 24in wide and when I would crawl on the bed the middle part would crack, so I had to put a thin board to support my weight across the entire thing. I weigh approximately 150 lb. The shelves are supposed to support way more than that! Second, plastic off gases chemicals even if you can't smell it. I don't know when or if they will stop off-gassing. I love, love the idea of the wire racks, but I found out it can increase the EMF radiation around your body when you're on them. I read metal will do this if there's any electrical source like power lines, cell phone towers, cell phones, and.etc. I realize I'm in a metal box already, but I don't need to increase my personal exposure due to some health concerns. I ended up building mine out of wood and mimicking their fantastic design! I also found another guy on TH-cam who made his legs out of two-by-fours and hooked them to the board with two hinges so that he could take one hinge pin out and fold the legs down for compact storage, so that's what I did.
Dunnage, racks, and zip ties! + Piping thread for swivel table. Brilliant no build! This is what I needed to see. Thank you so much for sharing. That was fun watching you guys too. 🎉
Newly Updated Safety Suggestions; I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living. I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc... People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living. I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself. Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this. I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful. I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors. I shared this with another traveler as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others. Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience. Although, you may have knowledge of this already, I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone. *Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle. You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage Do your research for the best fit for you Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables. Consider theses items: *Mini portable power charging station. I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices. *Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception. Research to see what you prefer. *Very Inportant: Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location. There are various types of these devices, and including signal that can be used when boating or camping situations. There is also the Satellite communication devices, that can provide SOS emergency signal and GPS, and provide satellite text messaging capabilities anywhere. *Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders. Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone. You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS emergency GPS devices will be a good fit for you. *Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger *vehicle battery jumper cables *Vehicle Jumper cables *Keep a Fire extinguisher handy Smoke, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful... *Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly. Exterior vehicle cameras Interior vehicle cameras *Flashlights or pluggin spotlights *Portable spotlights, and lanterns Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console *A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies. Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons. Don’t forget to bring Bear Spray Pepper spray Where is allowed If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc. However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings. Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks. Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc. Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels. You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions. Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions. Keep your vehicle gas filled Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty. Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on. Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze. Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate. Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very. Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump. Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it. It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling. Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors. Keep Enjoying Yourself, Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature Just..Please continue to Be Positive, Safe, and Alert.. Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All. God Bless You, and everyone Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc. Please Be Safe... Author Advocate for Humanity, Safety Advocate Jason Sandifer, Michigan 10/06/2022, 10/02/2022 10/08/2022, 10/11/2022
Appreciate your thought but some of this just makes me scratch my head lol like your "tip" to have 2 sets of tires and a spare... where exactly am I going to keep those 5 extra tires while rolling down the road?? 😂
@@its_me_the_redhead This is a bit funny, I guess that I wasn't clear about the spare tires situation advice. The extra set is to be kept at a location that you can travel to periodically if needed, to rotate or change to Winter Tires etc. A Home base A Friends Home A Family member Home A Storage space Etc. And one spare tire with you, or a donut spare in your vehicle
I have the exact Element too. I love camping in mine and built a wooden platform, but now rethinking my bed based on yours. I am going to incorporate many any of your "adds". I'm 6' and trying to be able to sit on the bed is important. The swivel table, baskets from .99 store, cookware, water bags, spray bottles for washing dishes, power battery, and shoutout for the brands you used are incredible!! Thank you for sharing and your ingenuity.
This is one of the best setups I've seen for a tiny SUV; it's unique! You two did a fabulous job. Might I add you two are adorable! I have a 2017 Kia Soul that I'm trying to decide how I want to set up. I'm going to go very simple and do a test run in the spring to see what I feel will perhaps work best. I've tent camped quite a bit with my car & totally over packed (every nook & cranny all the way to the roof, including 3 Yorkies in their carseats! I'm working very hard on downsizing as I plan to sleep in my car.
Me and my human are turning our Soul into a micro camper. We're currently working on the sleeping platform. Gonna get some videos uploaded soon....still learning all of this.
Some really great ideas in here! I really appreciate the video. Probably one of the most down-to-earth "van builds" I've ever seen. I like that you guys approached it with common sense and frugality.
I bought myself a used Honda van for my 70th birthday a few weeks ago so that I can travel by myself. I am so inspired by everything you've done here. That's what I'm going to do!!! Thank you!!!
That is amazing! I usually quit a few minutes into “build” videos because I have few carpentry skills. But this video is wonderful! I enjoyed every minute including the visit from Donna. 😊 Great ideas and excellent execution. I can actually do this! Thank you.
Very entertaining with great tips. Love the foam idea for power station. The realization of pipe fitting into the bed frame was hilarious. You guys are great
I've been camping with my now ex-partner for 20 years in a wonderful converted NV200. It was so nice and I loved camping. Since we are no longer together, I have completely been missing going camping, soooo I purchased a 2003 Element and have begun getting ready for my solo car camping. Your videos have been so inspiring to me, and I have followed most of your suggestions. I will be ordering my dunnage racks this weekend. I've already purchased my fabric for the cushions and have collected many items that I will need. I've booked my first trip for 09/26 at Point Mugu right at the ocean. Thank you for inspiring a 61 year old lady to continue enjoying life as I've known it for the last 20 years. You two are great!!!
Oh my goodness that sounds like an amazing way to get back on the road. We love our little Toastie build. Good luck with your build and let us know how the first night goes in Point Mugu! You going surfing?
Very cool no-build build! I don’t camp in mine, but I do stealth sleep in it when necessary. As such I have kept mine 100% stock, not even removing the rear seats. I merely have them raised up, and I have a futon and pillows on the floor. With sunshades on the front windshield and front side windows, someone would really have to look closely to know that anyone is sleeping inside. The one modification I want to make is an inside rear hatch release, because it is somewhat difficult getting in and out from the vehicle.
Nice to know I’m not the only one stashing Welch’s fruit snacks for my Element travels. Thank you for sharing your ideas! I’m updating my camping plan and this helped
I absolutly love all of this! You gave me so many ideas for my own Van Build. I've always wanted a no-build build because having that kind of permanace in my vehicle makes me nervous. I even have a dunnage shelf I got from my mom, but I had no idea what it was until now. I'll be turning that into my sink setup. Also thank you for showing me that I'm not the only one who has had the mosquito netting idea. I can't stand bugs, especially when I'm sleeping.
By far, the BEST setup that I have seen. The pricy tear drops don’t really add value - just cost. Since I also have an Element, I am going to use your ideas, thank you!
Im literally days away from living out of my car. This is a blessing. I never thought of dunnage racks and had em for the kitchen pantry. This is something I will consider. This is awesome
I'm so glad we found your video! I had been planning on using extruded aluminum for our Tacoma build-out as we want to go as light, simple, flexible and inexpensive as possible but I've been so worried about the difficulty (I'm not that handy!), expense and potential for screwing it up. Your video was a real life-saver, it was so exciting to watch and see how this was going to work beautifully for us. It felt like a mountain of stress just fell away. I've already ordered my parts based on the list you provided (the prices on the dunnage shelving was so reasonable I just couldn't argue with it) and am so excited to finally be able to get started! Thank you so much!
@@DaysWeSpend, the first two pieces for our build arrived today and I thought it might be important to let you know that this particular line of racks is not aluminum. We ordered the same as you, just more of it and with the black epoxy instead of the green. While this was a disappointing discovery, it shouldn't have been a surprise given the price point. After looking all over the place trying to find exactly what the metal is on this particular line, all I could find was "epoxy coated metal wire", which isn't helpful, I know. So, if anyone else is looking to save weight with these, it won't be as light as aluminum, but definitely lighter than wood!
@@Groznie1 Thanks for your research. Another commenter pointed out that these are probably made of steel (since they're magnetic). When we made the video, we saw other shelves made of aluminum and we remembered incorrectly. I looked at the Webstaurant website and it says these are made of "green epoxy" coated metal. Which I agree is a bit vague.
I have a lot of people who watch my channel who ask me about no build builds and I will absolutely direct them to you guys from now on! Bravo 👏🏻 LOVE IT🐞🚗❤️
Definitely the most brilliant no-build vans I've seen! I've dreamed of building/living in a van for years, but no prior experience makes it more tricky. Seeing this gives me a lot of hope and inspiration. Love seeing all the REI and Sea to Summit stuff as well. Spray bottles is literally so brilliant. Convinced me to look into getting a Honda Element now. I just wished I saw this video sooner, you guys are amazing! :D
Nice camper set up and tour! I have a 2006, such a great vehicle, the best vehicle Honda ever made. I use it for 'no build' mountain biking trip overnights quite a bit. Honda should really think about resurrecting this model in the coming years as nothing else out there comes close to its versatility to size ratio.
Thanks! They were surprisingly strong and super useful and easy to assemble. I wish I had the carpentry skills to build something better but we like our solution.
Thank you so much for this video. I was having the hardest time figuring out how to easily do the windows. Your explanation/how to was perfect . Thank you two!
Amazing build! Inexpensive build yet it works for both of you, I'm loving this no-build ideas and both of you radiates fun and outgoing energy throughout the videos! I'm subbing for this kind of energy! Keep up the good work!!
Thanks so much! We try to have a good time. Honestly this build works surprisingly well and we’ve seen a bunch of other people put their own spin on it. Hope you have some rad adventures whatever you do!
I am NEVER giving up my 2006 Element after watching this. It is still kid hauling but this is the missing build out I have wanted to find. Thank you so much for sharing this.
FAQs: All our pipes and flanges for the swivel table are 1/2 inch, NOT 1 inch. Cushions: 4 cushions total. They're all 3 inches thick (this is dependent on your mattress). 48" x 18" (bottom cushion above fridge) 48" x 12" (bottom cushion above drawers) 48" x 14" (back cushion above drawers/middle bed cushion) 40" x 17" (this is the small one that goes over the seats. It's shorter than the others so that we can get in and out of the backseats more easily. If that doesn't bother you, make it 48" x 17") Fabric: 5 yards (54" x 180"): www.spoonflower.com/en/recycled-canvas Legs: The legs by the seats were 14" tall. We hand sawed a few inches off the top so that they don't get in the way of our feet. The dunnage racks are made of "green epoxy" coated metal. Which is a bit vague and likely made from steel (since they're magnetic). All links in on our website. www.dayswespend.com/no-build-camper
Wouldn't it have been cheaper and more cost effective to buy patio cushions that already have outdoor material on them ? I got many on sale or clearance.
@@henryottis295 That's a great idea. Definitely worth exploring. We prioritized our comfort when it came to making our bedding, so we wanted custom cushions.
I'm actually really impressed with your dish washing method! As someone who camps often and also wants to conserve water in general I'm definitely going to try this out
This is the most ghetto pieced together build I’ve ever seen … BUT IT’S SO CREATIVE and it’s perfect. I mean, these little adaptations are genius and I bet you guys have a great time in it. I just love it and am jealous of your mini camper!
Awesome setup! We did something similar with garage storage shelves for the platform bed because we are also limited with building skills 😁 Thanks for including all the links to products. I’m always looking to improve our setup and appreciate tips from other Element owners.
You can also get a magnetic closing masquito net door for the back doors if you want to chill in the van with open doors and not get t bugs. Your build is so good! I’m loving it!
Thank you for being realistic about the cost of the set up! I hate when van camper TH-camrs build a mini mansion in a huge van with a rooftop air conditioner, solar panels, 3-way fridge, etc all for $3000! Thanks for the tour of an awesome set up!
“I’m not good at building things” is the line you NEVER want to say to a woman if you want to date her. This gentleman here, got really lucky and he probably knows it. Good for him!
This is the most light-weight, thorough, pretty, and easy-to-build system I've seen yet. Thank you. I have a sion xb, but I think most of this will apply.
I'm so glad I found you guys. I just started the process by putting on the roof racks yesterday and got a Honda roof carrier for $50 off Marketplace today. I really want simple/practical and you are doing all of thinking for me. Thanks!
That’s so awesome! In our experience simple and practical are the way to go. You can always improve/upgrade something later if it doesn’t work or you need a different solution. And yes, we would have loved to have the swivel seats but they were a bit expensive/rare when we did our build. Good luck!
Incredible!! I’ve watched so many no-build videos, and you’re “no-build” set up is exactly what my husband and I need for our Chevy Suburban! I am ordering the dunnage shelves today. We plan on making a video during our install process, and we will definitely tag y’all and give the much deserved credit to you two. Thank you for sharing your humor and passion with us, as well as all the links and information!
The Honda Element is an awesome vehicle. Have the same one as yours (same year and color, named, ELLY) except it is manual and has the moon roof window at the back. Did the no build ten years ago using two small drawers without the face, a fir 2x6 and a small piece of plywood, basically stuff i had laying around. We used a cooler directly behind the driver side with ice blocks that lasted about 4 days. For the bed we put the cooler on the passenger seat and folded the seats back and used a quality futon mattress and flopped it on top of back portion of the front seats and it fit all the way to the back hatch. Very comfortable, I slept like a rock. We got in and out of the bed through the driver seat side. Everything fit under the bed and we had a special box stuffed with stuff for that hole that is left over between the seats where the mattress sagged. We used jackets and the used laundry sack for the uneven back of the front seats when they were folded back. The tail gate is awesome and could not have lived without it. We had the screen socks that went over the front doors with the windows open for those hot nights. We camped in BC for five years and even went to Yellowstone one year . Super gas mileage, never had a flat , never had a problem , really a super duper car. It is now semi retired and used as winter car only and is totally mechanically re and reed. We got a dog and had to upgrade to a Sienna and basically do the same thing but without the building of the bed every night. Your video was awesome and it shows how much fun you can have doing this with these awesome cars. Thanks for sharing. Cheers
Wow, thanks so much for the message. Yeah, Elements are simple the best. The tailgate is so key. Great interior. We slept awesome. Your build sounds super fun. Love hearing how much everyone loves their elements!
Very innovative! I love these guys and their wonderful relationship. We’re looking at a potential 60+ year marriage here. I’m 86 and wish these two were my great grandchildren so I could love ❤️ on them.
I love it. I drove an 03 until I got a sienna. Surprisingly, I have put a pallet of materials off of a forklift. I had to push everything all the way to the front I could barely fit behind the steering wheel. It was crazy. I hope y’all enjoy it.
I am a disabled grandmother in a power chair. I went from traveling in my wheelchair minivan to a 40 foot school bus, which I live in on my homebase in Texas. I am looking to convert something else and I think the Honda element is so cute. I’m just not sure, as to what I’m going to build out next. Your video gave me so many ideas! 👍🏻👨🦼🚍🐾🏕️❤️
I happen to have...a 2008 Honda Element 😀, and I love watching van build videos, but (a) I am a menace when building *anything*, and (b) I don't want to get a new vehicle. But now!!! Seriously, I am so excited about the possibilities! Thank you so much for figuring all of this out and sharing. 😀 So cool, guys!
Seriously the best no build, build I've seen yet! I have a 2007 Element and I'm the second owner. I happily bought her in 2018 as giddy as in 2005 when I sat in one to manifest it. Anyhoooo, enough about me y'all are adorbs! And I seriously love the ideas and suggestions you shared. Especially for sharing about the slopes and measurements etc! Stoked to do some mechanical work and a no build in the Spring. 🤙🏼💚🌲 Hugs from Spokane, WA, USA
This is SO amazing! You guys did a fantastic job with the build and the video! Keep doing what you are doing. I’ll be staying along for the ride! My husband and I have been watching these TH-cam build videos since 2013 when we went full time in a 19ft Lance travel trailer. We were on the road for 4 years (full time the entire time). We loved the Lance. We then made a switch to a Winnebago Travato (van). Biggest mistake we ever made. We got rid of that van asap! We will NEVER buy any Winnebago product again. Now we are looking to travel in our cars and I LOVE all your ideas and details. Your personalities are also such a joy. You both are naturals and I’m here for it.❤ Thank you for sharing! You have a new fan & subscriber. Hope to see you two on the road one day!
Wow thanks so much! Awesome to hear about your own time on the road and that tour little build gave you some ideas. Thanks for the encouragement. Always nice to hear!
Amazing ideas. All these things you used...I already have 90% of those things. Even the bed racks. I can start now!! Thank you!! Smart people, you guys! I have a small pickup so it will be a little easier for me but your vehicle has almost as much room as my truck bed. I'm so excited!!! I'll try to send pics when I'm done.
I wasn't even going to make a platform for my bed in my 2018 Chevy Equinox but now y'all have me looking at the dunnage racks. Hmm. I love the swivel table! So cool!
I love your video it’s AMAZING! I never imagined the practicality and resources Available with this vehicle. I do appreciate your video and ideas you shared. 😊 thanks
That's hilarious! I've worked in logistics for 10 years and I made my bed out of a dunnage rack as well.. I thought I was the first, but this proves that there's always someone else out there with the same ideas
finally a video that can definitely help me. I have a van I've been wanting to convert and you video showed me some amazing creative things. I'm on a fixed income and seeing this video is definitely going to help. I have a Nissan quest and I removed the middle seat and only left the back seat as that seat can slide from back to front and back again. I totally love the zip tie way. Those little suckers are hard to break. and they are affordable. not only that but I don't need power tools. thank you for sharing I am definitely one day going to be using a lot of your ideas. Idk when but when I do I will definitely give you a shout out.
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I've watched hundreds of build and no-build videos over the years and y'all have ideas I've NEVER seen before. I'm so impressed!!! Y'all are super adorable, too.
Wow! Thank you so much!!
Yes, brilliant ideas.
@@rharvey2124 Thank you!
Agree!😊
@RR Continued This is nice and simple, of course it's a camper, why do you need a designated toilet? People had no toilets in their houses not so long ago. They have a cooking space. This vehicle can go anywhere. Ingenious. Also, who in their right mind wants to go camping in Canada in winter. Even so, those hardy souls who go winter backpacking don't have heaters. They generally carry 4 season sleeping bags. Easy to do with a vehicle, just layer up on down bags and comforters. A car is much more insulated than a tent, so you're not making a lot of sense.
This is just what I need!!! I'm 74 and just starting out. No one will help me do a build as they think I'm nuts, so this even I can do! Thank you from the bottom of my heart ❤️!
Hey Donna. That’s so great to hear! You’re not nuts. Good luck on the “build” - you’re gonna do great.
The nuts are the people who don't get out and use the time they have. Go after your adventure.
This couple is the type of friends I want. I love them!
Thank you! 😍
Not only was this wildly helpful for me as someone looking at getting a Honda Element but as a person roaming the earth it was really a pleasure watching people be so lovely towards each other while they share something so personal to their journey through life together. So many great tips and a real joy to watch. Thanks for sharing with us.
Thank you so much for your kind words.
I'm 78 and travel/camp alone in my Dodge Caravan. My no-build bed for one is 4 large survival cans of pancake mix or dried food as legs at the corners with long shelf boards placed together on 2x4 cross boards that rest on the cans. If I get in trouble I can burn the boards and eat the legs!!! It works great and easy for an old lady to dismantle!
Haha brilliant!
You are made of the right stuff! :)
When I saw your swivel table I was like, “Ugh. I know that thing. They run around $1400.” So I was STOKED at your rigging of it. Holy cats, that’s awesome!!! Lots of great ideas, y’all.
Glad you like it. Paying $1400 for a swivel table just...doesn't...make...sense....to us (at least for this set-up).
I love their smiles 🥰🥰🥰🥰 the good vibes and energy they have is amazing...
Thank you. :)
YAAAY!!! Finally. Someone with no build ideas that are so perfect for my needs and brilliantly explained. Also your exuberance and comedic timing was inspiring and spot on.
I can't wait to implement some of your fantastic ideas. Thank you very much.
Wow, thank you! Good luck with your build!
This is honestly thee best no build conversion I’ve ever seen. I love it!!!!
Thanks so much! We love it. 😁 We’re hitting the road again this weekend! Toastie tour!!
Why is everything about this perfect? I loved every single thing you did because it’s simple and it works!
Hahaha thanks so much. We just kept finding little ideas that just kept working.
I have a 2007 Element that I’ve been plotting a build on for years. This gives me some easy no-build wins that I can knock out in a couple of weekends and hit the trails. Thanks guys!
Thanks so much for watching. Good luck with your no-build.
Possibly the best Van “conversion” video and inspiration for car-camping I have ever watched. I enjoyed all the ideas and notes about what works. The rack beds are brilliant. I had no idea an element could go full flat like that. WHY did Honda stop making them?!? They were so great!
Also wanted to share - my mother converted a panel van that we borrowed from my father’s brother’s business. I don’t know how, but she built two fitted beds out of 2 by 4s - with an aisle- they could be removed and put back in the next year.
One bed fit around the spare tire that hung on the wall, and the legs had to fit into the concave parts of the metal floor, which had three inch wide stripes, that ran from back to front with alternating raised and low stripes. Four children and two adults - we were each given a particular piece of luggage which she puzzle- pieced under the beds. No more, no less. She had two coolers, one for some kind of drink, usually lemonade which could sit on top of the other cooler that had sandwich ingredients. I was allowed to bring my guitar because it fit perfectly over the spare tire. Each child was allowed a cigar box of personal items. I wrote letters so I had a few mementos and letter writing materials.
We drove from Louisiana to the western Adirondack Mountains. We were pulled over once on the NY thruway by a curious and possibly bored trooper. Wanted to know what we were up to with our big silver van with Texas plates (uncle lived in Texas). Dad was driving, when suddenly we heard a loud voice yelling Pull Over! Probably early a.m. dad liked to drive through the night and usually switched with mom at dawn.
Anyway, I hope you make many happy memories on your adventures. I love your rig, especially the use of zip ties. Your video is so joyful. Thank you!
Forgot to mention, this was around 1978
Thank you! And thanks for sharing your story. That’s a really fun memory.
After watching this, I really understand why people like the Honda Element for car camping.
Using those dunnage racks for bed frames was Brilliant! I’ve watch hundreds if build videos and have never seen anyone use them before. And your solution for the swivel table was great. Probably my two favourite things about the build.
Thanks for info on the Yeti and Ecoflow power stations. I’m so used to people using the Jackery, a great, but expensive system, that it’s nice to hear about other brands. Will look into those.
Great video! Really useful info. Thanks!
Thank you so much! We're glad you loved our ideas.
I just purchased my second Honda Element. I bought My original one in 2003 (which I still own) and it has 326k miles and still running like a champ. I found one in Webster Texas at Emmons Auto Plex and could not pass it up.....It was an '08 with only 70 k miles on it so I will leave my older Element in Az at our winter home and now I have my new Element and I dont have to drive a car with all the stupid stopping engine when you stop at a stop light
I have used a goal zero with a renogy panel for 3yrs now...
Love it!
This was awesome! I have been watching these “no-build” builds for several years and yours was by far the best explained, easiest to adapt/implement, and just fun to watch! Y’all crack me up! You’re adorable and it’s quite obvious y’all enjoy each other-quite refreshing! I have an ‘02 Toyota Sequoia which is alot of room so using your ideas for the restaurant shelving will give me a substantial sitting and storage area I think! I cant do anything for a while yet but lots to ponder and re-design! Thanks!
thank you so much! Good luck with your Toyota Sequoia build!
I have been dreaming the van life idea for several years…I thought not possible because of van prices. You make it look possible to do it without the expensive high top and high priced vans on the market. Thanks for the simple alternative ideas!
I must say you two are far more entertaining than 99% of van lifers I’ve seen! You are truly laid back and that is what I want out of this life style! Besides you guys appeal to my quirky sense of humor! Thanks for sharing..much gratitude. Can’t wait to see where you go to next..happy travels🙃
Thank you so much!
For extra water you could look into PVC pipe used as a storage tank mounted to a roof rack. Also you can use external roof storage units to store extra gear and install extra Jerry cans for H2O in them
Great ideas. Thanks for sharing.
I’m like, practically in tears I’ve been trying to find a way to just, make it happen. To just make it a thing and get going. This is exactly that and the excitement and fun you guys have showing off how proud you are of these solutions is just so fucking perfect I love the energy. Every second of the kitchen display I was absolutely matching the excitement I love it I love it I love it 🥰 I wanna go camping with you guys once I get one going 😹
Haha thanks so much. That was the whole point of our “build.” Just make it happen and customize if you want, when you can. We’re super proud of our little Toastie! Hope to see you out there.
I have a 2005 and absolutely love it. I’ll be sad the day I can’t drive it anymore. Honda needs to bring it back with the rising popularity of “van life”. The element was ahead of it’s time! Love the video, guys!
Totally agree! We love our Element. It's in a league of its own.
Thanks for watching :)
Rumor is….next year they are bringing back the element. My aunt loves her element!
I LOVE this! This is exactly what I’m been trying to explain to my husband that I want to do. We love tent camping, but due to a medical issue I can no long sleep on the ground even with an air mattress. This gets us back into camping & than later down the road we can decide if we want to get a trailer or not. This is actually prefect for weekend getaways.
Thank you! We're glad it's useful. Good luck with your future "no-build!"
I've used Dunnage racks for several years for shelving. Am getting ready to make my Subie Outback into a minimalist camper and was scratching my head about wood, measuring, figuring, ugh. This is a great idea. I just want storage on one side and with the rack can adjust easily if I need to tweak as opposed to redoing a wood build out. The racks are so much more versatile. So glad I happened to see this! Great job.
I know, right!? That's how we got the idea. We just couldn't figure out the wood structure and attachment points and all that measuring. It was so much easier, and really nice to be able to remove and replace with our seats when we need to. Thanks for watching, and good luck with your build! Let us know how it goes.
I love the simplicity of this setup. That looks like a great vehicle too. And you two are hilarious! That chemistry and humor between you two is so important I think.
Haha thanks Dan (and Kiko!) Elements are the best. Two thumbs way up. And our setup was surprisingly solid and easy to put together. We highly recommend it
VERY IMPRESSED GUYS!!! We are a Honda Element loving family and watching how you turned yours into a camping pad was nothing short of GENIUS! Loved this idea and makes me wish we still had our MIGHTY E!
Thanks for watching!
I had no intention of watching the entire video... but you two did such a good job the time flew by. Enjoyed every second of it.
Haha thanks for staying. Glad we kept ya entertained!
Great job!!! I've been watching no build van tours and getting ideas for 4.5 years. Yours is honestly the BEST I've seen! I did a plastic garage shelf in our van. Love your idea!!! I will probably scrap the plastic and try your idea! Thanks!!!
Thank you so much!! Let us know how your new build goes!
Me too...
Is there a down side to the plastic shelving? Is there a wear / sagging issue?
@@kaffeine69 there are two things I found. First, I bought mine in the hardware section of Walmart. They were 24in wide and when I would crawl on the bed the middle part would crack, so I had to put a thin board to support my weight across the entire thing. I weigh approximately 150 lb. The shelves are supposed to support way more than that! Second, plastic off gases chemicals even if you can't smell it. I don't know when or if they will stop off-gassing. I love, love the idea of the wire racks, but I found out it can increase the EMF radiation around your body when you're on them. I read metal will do this if there's any electrical source like power lines, cell phone towers, cell phones, and.etc. I realize I'm in a metal box already, but I don't need to increase my personal exposure due to some health concerns. I ended up building mine out of wood and mimicking their fantastic design! I also found another guy on TH-cam who made his legs out of two-by-fours and hooked them to the board with two hinges so that he could take one hinge pin out and fold the legs down for compact storage, so that's what I did.
Dunnage, racks, and zip ties! + Piping thread for swivel table. Brilliant no build! This is what I needed to see. Thank you so much for sharing. That was fun watching you guys too. 🎉
Thanks so much! It honestly somehow just works. Thanks for watching.
Newly Updated Safety Suggestions;
I just happened to see your channel, and others similar channels recently, and I think that you, and others sharing their actual reality, and some have expressed some of the up, and down sides to van, RV, or vehicle living.
I believe that it is very helpful, and beneficial to others who may be thinking about this type of living without actually thinking through, about the some of the realistic problems that could occur with vehicle or van living etc...
People need to know what up sides there are, as well as some of the down sides of vehicle living.
I believe this channel, and other channels have been informative to others, including myself.
Although, I am NOT living in a vehicle or anything like this.
I feel that you , and others TH-camrs sharing this with your viewers will be very helpful.
I wish you ALL the Best with your traveling endeavors.
I shared this with another traveler as I watched their TH-cam channel for the first time, as yours, and I shared with them this information that may be helpful to you as well to others.
Therefore, I would also like to suggest a few Safety tips, and items that may help you, or others in your viewing audience.
Although, you may have knowledge of this already,
I am not sure, so I hope this will be helpful to you, others or someone.
*Keep a Extra working cellphone with you or in your vehicle.
You can purchase inexpensive phone with a very low monthly price between 25, 35, 45, dollars a month with unlimited data and text, and some have Nationwide coverage
Do your research for the best fit for you
Carry Several Extra portable phone chargers, and cables.
Consider theses items:
*Mini portable power charging station.
I have also seen outdoor portable solar powered power stations, that can be recharged from sunlight this may be very useful to have, to power your devices.
*Invest in a Cellular signal booster for outdoor use, and camping situations to boost or amplify your cell signal and reception.
Research to see what you prefer.
*Very Inportant:
Invest in a SOS distress electronic signal device, this a kind of device can send out a distress signal with your exact location.
There are various types of these devices, and including signal that can be used when boating or camping situations.
There is also the Satellite communication devices, that can provide SOS emergency signal and GPS, and provide satellite text messaging capabilities anywhere.
*Some have emergency Strobe lights SOS signaling with location alerts, and location updates that can be sent to your family, and emergency first responders.
Some can be synchronized with your smart watch or phone.
You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS emergency GPS devices will be a good fit for you.
*Mini portable vehicle battery jumper charger
*vehicle battery jumper cables
*Vehicle Jumper cables
*Keep a Fire extinguisher handy
Smoke, and Carbon monoxide detectors can be helpful...
*Mounted Dashboard camera front and rear possibly.
Exterior vehicle cameras
Interior vehicle cameras
*Flashlights or pluggin spotlights
*Portable spotlights, and lanterns
Keep a few whistles around with you, and in your vehicle possibly in your vehicle’s center console
*A set of long range 2 way radios, walkie talkies, to communicate with others during trips, some have 100 mile radius keep for emergencies.
Use your own discretion regarding the use of any weapons.
Don’t forget to bring
Bear Spray
Pepper spray
Where is allowed
If you own a drone you can use it to survey your area for animals etc.
However, Please Be Safe and Beware of your Surroundings.
Stay Alert, and Be Safe even when stopping at Rest stops, Truck Stops, and conducting your various tasks.
Keep in often contact with your family, friends etc.
Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels.
You seem Very Aware of your surroundings and Alert, and you may be aware of many of these suggestions, however, I Don’t know, so I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions.
Keep up with the latest Weather Updates, beware and prepare for unexpected Weather events and conditions.
Keep your vehicle gas filled
Don’t chance your Safety by running your vehicle fuel or gas too close to Empty.
Fill it up anyway, it will save you alot of time, and headache later on.
Remember to keep up on routine maintenance, check your tires for wear, keep up with your fluids for your vehicle, like oil levels, washer fluid, brake fluid, antifreeze.
Remember Because you are on the road riding for sometimes very long distances, and long periods of time, I would suggest investing in 2 sets of tires, and a spare, the extra set to rotate.
Check the mileage ratings on your tires they all very.
Conduct visual inspections of your tires often, check for damage, wearing, air pressure, etc
Keep a pressure gauge to check your tires pressure and a tire pump.
Keep towing insurance to Be Safe if you ever need it.
It Doesn’t cost much try to get National coverage if available, or where you will be traveling.
Keep Extra financing, and savings for any unexpected issues, vehicle repairs, and overnight stays, in a emergency or if you need to rest indoors.
Keep Enjoying Yourself,
Keep Enjoying the outdoors, and Nature
Just..Please continue to
Be Positive, Safe, and Alert..
Wishing Success, Well-being and Happiness You All.
God Bless You, and everyone
Traveling, or living in their vehicles, Vans, RVs, etc.
Please Be Safe...
Author Advocate for Humanity,
Safety Advocate
Jason Sandifer,
Michigan
10/06/2022,
10/02/2022
10/08/2022,
10/11/2022
Appreciate your thought but some of this just makes me scratch my head lol like your "tip" to have 2 sets of tires and a spare... where exactly am I going to keep those 5 extra tires while rolling down the road?? 😂
@@its_me_the_redhead
This is a bit funny, I guess that I wasn't clear about the spare tires situation advice.
The extra set is to be kept at a location that you can travel to periodically if needed, to rotate or change to Winter Tires etc.
A Home base
A Friends Home
A Family member Home
A Storage space
Etc.
And one spare tire with you, or a donut spare in your vehicle
I have the exact Element too. I love camping in mine and built a wooden platform, but now rethinking my bed based on yours. I am going to incorporate many any of your "adds". I'm 6' and trying to be able to sit on the bed is important. The swivel table, baskets from .99 store, cookware, water bags, spray bottles for washing dishes, power battery, and shoutout for the brands you used are incredible!! Thank you for sharing and your ingenuity.
Thanks so much. Let us know how your build mod goes!
This is one of the best setups I've seen for a tiny SUV; it's unique! You two did a fabulous job. Might I add you two are adorable! I have a 2017 Kia Soul that I'm trying to decide how I want to set up. I'm going to go very simple and do a test run in the spring to see what I feel will perhaps work best. I've tent camped quite a bit with my car & totally over packed (every nook & cranny all the way to the roof, including 3 Yorkies in their carseats! I'm working very hard on downsizing as I plan to sleep in my car.
Thank you! Good luck with your new setup. Start simple since you can always add more to your build.
Me and my human are turning our Soul into a micro camper. We're currently working on the sleeping platform. Gonna get some videos uploaded soon....still learning all of this.
I have Kia SUV and found some great ways to fit it out , so now hit the road on the weekend's I live in Australia.
🥰🥰🥰😎❣️❤loved this video & both of you!
WOWZERS!! I have to say this is by far one of the BEST no builds I've ever seen! I love all the unique ways you have set up your living space!
Thanks so much! We lucked into a few good ideas and it just kind of worked out. Good luck on your build.
12:05 made me smile! I love those moments of accidental genius 😂
You two are awesome
Thanks so much!
Incredible "no build". Really inspiring and thank you for putting all the links up, super helpful! 😀👍
Glad it was helpful! Thank you!
To be able to live with another person in a van or car, you must truly love that person!!!
Very true!
Some really great ideas in here! I really appreciate the video. Probably one of the most down-to-earth "van builds" I've ever seen. I like that you guys approached it with common sense and frugality.
Thanks so much. Glad you enjoyed it!
I bought myself a used Honda van for my 70th birthday a few weeks ago so that I can travel by myself. I am so inspired by everything you've done here. That's what I'm going to do!!! Thank you!!!
Go for it! Let us know how your no-build goes! Happy birthday!
That is amazing! I usually quit a few minutes into “build” videos because I have few carpentry skills. But this video is wonderful! I enjoyed every minute including the visit from Donna. 😊 Great ideas and excellent execution. I can actually do this! Thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it! :)
the middle part about the bed is amazing - I would do a 5 part 2 hour documentary about it - so all the campers know what is important !
Hahaha maybe we need to!
This is the MOST BRILLIANT & outside the box thinking of any "van/car conversion/no-build I have EVER seen. Great job guys. Pure genius. ❤
Thanks so much! We tried some (weird) stuff and surprisingly it all worked!
Very entertaining with great tips. Love the foam idea for power station. The realization of pipe fitting into the bed frame was hilarious. You guys are great
Thanks so much!
I've been camping with my now ex-partner for 20 years in a wonderful converted NV200. It was so nice and I loved camping. Since we are no longer together, I have completely been missing going camping, soooo I purchased a 2003 Element and have begun getting ready for my solo car camping. Your videos have been so inspiring to me, and I have followed most of your suggestions. I will be ordering my dunnage racks this weekend. I've already purchased my fabric for the cushions and have collected many items that I will need. I've booked my first trip for 09/26 at Point Mugu right at the ocean. Thank you for inspiring a 61 year old lady to continue enjoying life as I've known it for the last 20 years. You two are great!!!
Oh my goodness that sounds like an amazing way to get back on the road. We love our little Toastie build. Good luck with your build and let us know how the first night goes in Point Mugu! You going surfing?
@@DaysWeSpend unfortunately my partner was the surfer, but I still appreciate from a far!
Very cool no-build build! I don’t camp in mine, but I do stealth sleep in it when necessary. As such I have kept mine 100% stock, not even removing the rear seats. I merely have them raised up, and I have a futon and pillows on the floor. With sunshades on the front windshield and front side windows, someone would really have to look closely to know that anyone is sleeping inside. The one modification I want to make is an inside rear hatch release, because it is somewhat difficult getting in and out from the vehicle.
Yeah a rear hatch would be sweet. Wish it was stock. All about a good stealth build!
Nice to know I’m not the only one stashing Welch’s fruit snacks for my Element travels. Thank you for sharing your ideas! I’m updating my camping plan and this helped
Thanks for watching! Now, time for some more fruit snacks! lol
You two are adorable, and I love how you fit so much into such a compact area! Safe & happy travels!
Thank you!! 😊
I'm so pleased how easy a van build can be. Electric can be that simple, bed can be that simple, Wow! thanks so much!
Thanks for watching. :)
I absolutly love all of this! You gave me so many ideas for my own Van Build. I've always wanted a no-build build because having that kind of permanace in my vehicle makes me nervous. I even have a dunnage shelf I got from my mom, but I had no idea what it was until now. I'll be turning that into my sink setup. Also thank you for showing me that I'm not the only one who has had the mosquito netting idea. I can't stand bugs, especially when I'm sleeping.
The permanence scared us, too. Good luck with your van!
This is the most realistic transformation I've seen so far. Like, realistically doable. I love it!
Thank you! 😊
This is the best , most detailed explained video for HONDA ELEMENT CAMPER BUILD, easy , practical and yes, I will be following the build. SUBBED!
Thank you so much! I’m glad you loved it 😍 -Lainey
By far, the BEST setup that I have seen. The pricy tear drops don’t really add value - just cost. Since I also have an Element, I am going to use your ideas, thank you!
Thank you!
Bravo! One of the best compact overlander non-builds I've seen. Most importantly it has been tested and proven on the road. 👏🏼
Glad you like it!
Im literally days away from living out of my car. This is a blessing. I never thought of dunnage racks and had em for the kitchen pantry. This is something I will consider. This is awesome
They really are amazing. Good luck with your build. So strong and easy to use.
I'm so glad we found your video! I had been planning on using extruded aluminum for our Tacoma build-out as we want to go as light, simple, flexible and inexpensive as possible but I've been so worried about the difficulty (I'm not that handy!), expense and potential for screwing it up. Your video was a real life-saver, it was so exciting to watch and see how this was going to work beautifully for us. It felt like a mountain of stress just fell away. I've already ordered my parts based on the list you provided (the prices on the dunnage shelving was so reasonable I just couldn't argue with it) and am so excited to finally be able to get started! Thank you so much!
That's so great to hear! Good luck with you no-build build!
@@DaysWeSpend, the first two pieces for our build arrived today and I thought it might be important to let you know that this particular line of racks is not aluminum. We ordered the same as you, just more of it and with the black epoxy instead of the green. While this was a disappointing discovery, it shouldn't have been a surprise given the price point. After looking all over the place trying to find exactly what the metal is on this particular line, all I could find was "epoxy coated metal wire", which isn't helpful, I know. So, if anyone else is looking to save weight with these, it won't be as light as aluminum, but definitely lighter than wood!
@@Groznie1 Thanks for your research. Another commenter pointed out that these are probably made of steel (since they're magnetic). When we made the video, we saw other shelves made of aluminum and we remembered incorrectly. I looked at the Webstaurant website and it says these are made of "green epoxy" coated metal. Which I agree is a bit vague.
I have a lot of people who watch my channel who ask me about no build builds and I will absolutely direct them to you guys from now on! Bravo 👏🏻 LOVE IT🐞🚗❤️
Thank you so much! We love your videos, too.
Definitely the most brilliant no-build vans I've seen! I've dreamed of building/living in a van for years, but no prior experience makes it more tricky. Seeing this gives me a lot of hope and inspiration. Love seeing all the REI and Sea to Summit stuff as well. Spray bottles is literally so brilliant. Convinced me to look into getting a Honda Element now. I just wished I saw this video sooner, you guys are amazing! :D
Thanks so much. Good luck with your future no-build!
The best multi purpose vehicle I ever had. Come on Honda, start making them again!
Agree!!
Nice camper set up and tour! I have a 2006, such a great vehicle, the best vehicle Honda ever made. I use it for 'no build' mountain biking trip overnights quite a bit. Honda should really think about resurrecting this model in the coming years as nothing else out there comes close to its versatility to size ratio.
Thank you! We totally agree with you. Honda, bring it BACK!!!!
You two are fortunate to have each other. You are laughing together after 5 weeks of traveling!
Those beds are perfect!!!!
I'm a carpenter. I can build things. And I'd choose those racks in a heartbeat
We try to have fun!
Thanks! They were surprisingly strong and super useful and easy to assemble. I wish I had the carpentry skills to build something better but we like our solution.
@DaysWeSpend in the end,for me, simple is better. In my opinion it's almost a strength not to overbuild
Thank you so much for this video. I was having the hardest time figuring out how to easily do the windows. Your explanation/how to was perfect . Thank you two!
You’re welcome! Thanks for watching.
After four days of watchingElement vids I’m convinced Fifth Element has a lock on decent camper transformations for an element.
Amazing build! Inexpensive build yet it works for both of you, I'm loving this no-build ideas and both of you radiates fun and outgoing energy throughout the videos! I'm subbing for this kind of energy! Keep up the good work!!
Thanks so much! We try to have a good time. Honestly this build works surprisingly well and we’ve seen a bunch of other people put their own spin on it. Hope you have some rad adventures whatever you do!
I am NEVER giving up my 2006 Element after watching this. It is still kid hauling but this is the missing build out I have wanted to find. Thank you so much for sharing this.
You're welcome! Element owners unite!
FAQs:
All our pipes and flanges for the swivel table are 1/2 inch, NOT 1 inch.
Cushions:
4 cushions total. They're all 3 inches thick (this is dependent on your mattress).
48" x 18" (bottom cushion above fridge)
48" x 12" (bottom cushion above drawers)
48" x 14" (back cushion above drawers/middle bed cushion)
40" x 17" (this is the small one that goes over the seats. It's shorter than the others so that we can get in and out of the backseats more easily. If that doesn't bother you, make it 48" x 17")
Fabric: 5 yards (54" x 180"): www.spoonflower.com/en/recycled-canvas
Legs:
The legs by the seats were 14" tall. We hand sawed a few inches off the top so that they don't get in the way of our feet.
The dunnage racks are made of "green epoxy" coated metal. Which is a bit vague and likely made from steel (since they're magnetic).
All links in on our website.
www.dayswespend.com/no-build-camper
Wouldn't it have been cheaper and more cost effective to buy patio cushions that already have outdoor material on them ? I got many on sale or clearance.
@@henryottis295 That's a great idea. Definitely worth exploring. We prioritized our comfort when it came to making our bedding, so we wanted custom cushions.
I'm actually really impressed with your dish washing method! As someone who camps often and also wants to conserve water in general I'm definitely going to try this out
Thanks so much! Let us know how it goes.
the best feature about this camper are the two guys.! flexible versatile ! MINIMALIST. WHO NEEDS ALL THIS CAMPING CARS ;; enough to be happy !
Hahaha thanks so much! We try to have a good time and keep it simple. Thanks for watching.
WOW!!! y'all did an amazing no build. I learned a lot from this video. Thank you so much for sharing.
Thank you so much! I’m glad it was so helpful. -Lainey
This is the most ghetto pieced together build I’ve ever seen … BUT IT’S SO CREATIVE and it’s perfect. I mean, these little adaptations are genius and I bet you guys have a great time in it. I just love it and am jealous of your mini camper!
Thank you! We have so many great adventures in Toastie.
Awesome setup! We did something similar with garage storage shelves for the platform bed because we are also limited with building skills 😁
Thanks for including all the links to products. I’m always looking to improve our setup and appreciate tips from other Element owners.
Very cool! Great minds think alike. 😀
Thanks so much for watching!
-Lainey
You can also get a magnetic closing masquito net door for the back doors if you want to chill in the van with open doors and not get t bugs. Your build is so good! I’m loving it!
That's a great idea. Thanks for sharing.
Wow,this is pretty impressive. Must have been hard for Shawn to fit it the back
Thank you! The bed fits Shawn really well. The seating is a bit short for him. He has to slouch.
@@DaysWeSpend thought so
Thank you for being realistic about the cost of the set up!
I hate when van camper TH-camrs build a mini mansion in a huge van with a rooftop air conditioner, solar panels, 3-way fridge, etc all for $3000!
Thanks for the tour of an awesome set up!
Hahaha. Yeah, that bothers us to sometimes. Thanks for watching!
“I’m not good at building things” is the line you NEVER want to say to a woman if you want to date her. This gentleman here, got really lucky and he probably knows it. Good for him!
Haha I guess. We all have our strengths and weaknesses. No harm in being honest and trying your best. Thanks for watching!
Element owner here….omg this was incredible. Just what I needed……
Thank you so much! Elements unite!
Try Velcro with adhesive for your his and her hanging storage to keep it from swaying or getting tangled into.
I love this no-build-not-a-van-build errrm build… plus she’s giving me a young Cybill Shepherd vibe ♥️
Thanks!
“SPORKS!”
“…ohh good technique.”
😂😂
This is the most light-weight, thorough, pretty, and easy-to-build system I've seen yet. Thank you. I have a sion xb, but I think most of this will apply.
That’s awesome! Good luck with your no build!
10/10 for video editing! +10000 for having an element! A++ for van life on a budget! Top notch video y’all!
Hahaha. Thank you!!!
You had me before the paint stirs, but be still my heart - I've always said anything could be made of paint stirs!!! Thanks for showing the world 🤩😍🤩
Hahaha, right?! They are AMAZING.
You don't overcomplicate stuff- that's always a good way to start
Thanks! We’re always trying to keep it simple.
I'm so glad I found you guys. I just started the process by putting on the roof racks yesterday and got a Honda roof carrier for $50 off Marketplace today. I really want simple/practical and you are doing all of thinking for me. Thanks!
That’s so awesome! In our experience simple and practical are the way to go. You can always improve/upgrade something later if it doesn’t work or you need a different solution.
And yes, we would have loved to have the swivel seats but they were a bit expensive/rare when we did our build. Good luck!
@@DaysWeSpend Swivals,, nice! $500 a pop, ouch! I'm hoping you have a great time in Spain. So much fun. God Bless.
Loved the way you named each product and gave prices. By far the best cheap build video I've seen lately. Thanks!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching.
Incredible!! I’ve watched so many no-build videos, and you’re “no-build” set up is exactly what my husband and I need for our Chevy Suburban! I am ordering the dunnage shelves today. We plan on making a video during our install process, and we will definitely tag y’all and give the much deserved credit to you two. Thank you for sharing your humor and passion with us, as well as all the links and information!
Thanks so much! Can't wait to see how your build turns out. Good luck!
The Honda Element is an awesome vehicle. Have the same one as yours (same year and color, named, ELLY) except it is manual and has the moon roof window at the back. Did the no build ten years ago using two small drawers without the face, a fir 2x6 and a small piece of plywood, basically stuff i had laying around. We used a cooler directly behind the driver side with ice blocks that lasted about 4 days. For the bed we put the cooler on the passenger seat and folded the seats back and used a quality futon mattress and flopped it on top of back portion of the front seats and it fit all the way to the back hatch. Very comfortable, I slept like a rock. We got in and out of the bed through the driver seat side. Everything fit under the bed and we had a special box stuffed with stuff for that hole that is left over between the seats where the mattress sagged. We used jackets and the used laundry sack for the uneven back of the front seats when they were folded back. The tail gate is awesome and could not have lived without it. We had the screen socks that went over the front doors with the windows open for those hot nights. We camped in BC for five years and even went to Yellowstone one year . Super gas mileage, never had a flat , never had a problem , really a super duper car. It is now semi retired and used as winter car only and is totally mechanically re and reed. We got a dog and had to upgrade to a Sienna and basically do the same thing but without the building of the bed every night. Your video was awesome and it shows how much fun you can have doing this with these awesome cars. Thanks for sharing. Cheers
Wow, thanks so much for the message. Yeah, Elements are simple the best. The tailgate is so key. Great interior. We slept awesome. Your build sounds super fun. Love hearing how much everyone loves their elements!
Very innovative! I love these guys and their wonderful relationship. We’re looking at a potential 60+ year marriage here. I’m 86 and wish these two were my great grandchildren so I could love ❤️ on them.
Aww, thank you so much! We're coming up on 7 months of marriage :)
I love it. I drove an 03 until I got a sienna. Surprisingly, I have put a pallet of materials off of a forklift. I had to push everything all the way to the front I could barely fit behind the steering wheel. It was crazy. I hope y’all enjoy it.
I am a disabled grandmother in a power chair. I went from traveling in my wheelchair minivan to a 40 foot school bus, which I live in on my homebase in Texas. I am looking to convert something else and I think the Honda element is so cute. I’m just not sure, as to what I’m going to build out next. Your video gave me so many ideas!
👍🏻👨🦼🚍🐾🏕️❤️
Thanks so much! Good luck with your next build.
Genius with the spray bottle for dishes to conserve water. Thanks! I'm totally stealing this hack for our camp trips.
It makes your water last for DAYS!
I happen to have...a 2008 Honda Element 😀, and I love watching van build videos, but (a) I am a menace when building *anything*, and (b) I don't want to get a new vehicle. But now!!! Seriously, I am so excited about the possibilities! Thank you so much for figuring all of this out and sharing. 😀 So cool, guys!
Woohoo!!! Element owners unite! Good luck with your little toaster.
You guys are freaking geniuses!!
Thanks!
Seriously the best no build, build I've seen yet! I have a 2007 Element and I'm the second owner. I happily bought her in 2018 as giddy as in 2005 when I sat in one to manifest it. Anyhoooo, enough about me y'all are adorbs! And I seriously love the ideas and suggestions you shared. Especially for sharing about the slopes and measurements etc! Stoked to do some mechanical work and a no build in the Spring. 🤙🏼💚🌲 Hugs from Spokane, WA, USA
Thanks so much! Good luck with your Toaster!
@@DaysWeSpend thanks mucho! Toasters 4 Life! 😜Hope to meet yll at an Element meetup sometime. 🤙🏼
When "not really good at building things" couple, put great minds together and become building innovators. 👏🏽🏆
Thank you so much!
This is SO amazing! You guys did a fantastic job with the build and the video! Keep doing what you are doing. I’ll be staying along for the ride! My husband and I have been watching these TH-cam build videos since 2013 when we went full time in a 19ft Lance travel trailer. We were on the road for 4 years (full time the entire time). We loved the Lance. We then made a switch to a Winnebago Travato (van). Biggest mistake we ever made. We got rid of that van asap! We will NEVER buy any Winnebago product again. Now we are looking to travel in our cars and I LOVE all your ideas and details. Your personalities are also such a joy. You both are naturals and I’m here for it.❤ Thank you for sharing! You have a new fan & subscriber. Hope to see you two on the road one day!
Wow thanks so much! Awesome to hear about your own time on the road and that tour little build gave you some ideas. Thanks for the encouragement. Always nice to hear!
We also have a 2008 Element, the same color. My wife and I found your video by searching TH-cam for "Camping in a Honda Element".
It’s the best! Good luck camping in your Toastie. 😄
I’m from the U.K., I drive a Honda CR-V and I’ve never seen one of these before, looks amazing.
Elements are amazing. We wish that Honda would bring them back.
Amazing ideas. All these things you used...I already have 90% of those things. Even the bed racks. I can start now!! Thank you!! Smart people, you guys! I have a small pickup so it will be a little easier for me but your vehicle has almost as much room as my truck bed. I'm so excited!!! I'll try to send pics when I'm done.
Wow! So cool! Yes, please send us some pics when you're finished. We'd love to see these ideas in a truck bed.
I wasn't even going to make a platform for my bed in my 2018 Chevy Equinox but now y'all have me looking at the dunnage racks. Hmm. I love the swivel table! So cool!
The swivel table is amazing.
I love your video it’s AMAZING! I never imagined the practicality and resources Available with this vehicle. I do appreciate your video and ideas you shared. 😊 thanks
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you!
I’ve got a 2010 Element, 250,000 miles and still running like a champ. I wish Honda would bring them back! I’d buy a new one in a heart beat.
They’re the BEST. If they brought me back they’d sell out in hours.
That's hilarious! I've worked in logistics for 10 years and I made my bed out of a dunnage rack as well.. I thought I was the first, but this proves that there's always someone else out there with the same ideas
Haha always nice to meet a kindred spirit!
Happy and fun to watch you guys going through this very creative process. Have fun and thanks for sharing!
Thank you!
finally a video that can definitely help me. I have a van I've been wanting to convert and you video showed me some amazing creative things. I'm on a fixed income and seeing this video is definitely going to help. I have a Nissan quest and I removed the middle seat and only left the back seat as that seat can slide from back to front and back again. I totally love the zip tie way. Those little suckers are hard to break. and they are affordable. not only that but I don't need power tools. thank you for sharing I am definitely one day going to be using a lot of your ideas. Idk when but when I do I will definitely give you a shout out.
We're so glad it was helpful! Let us know how your "no-build" goes. Would love to see it.
Like what others said…I’ve watched a bunch of these videos and your build is so smart.
Thank you so much!