I love when I see guys that actually go! Sounds sarcastic but I know cats with 30k setups that stare at there equipment. This guys spent a couple hundred and is getting after it. Great job man
I hear ya buddy. I so tire of these Overlanding TH-cam channels that are in reality all faked and scripted non-sense. Those channels are all about trying to get you to Buy Outdoor Junk. The reason I want to spend as much time in the back country is to get away from Materialism and this Screwed up world. I dont want nor do I need to take all that expensive crap with me to enjoy nature. Ill be honest the most peaceful and contented dudes I have seen in the back country are those types that have very very little. Some people would call them Hobos or indignant even. But there those dudes are with that million mile wide smile and eyes that look like deep pools. It's not what you spend on your rig or your gear. it is the fact that you actually use those things up. Wear them out through Experience......
Thanks Buddy! Look forward to hanging out this summer. I switched cameras (again) to a more compact model. I picked up a Canon GX9 - fits in my pocket as opposed to the bigger camera I had which was really bulky. I like it, still learning all the features. Really pleased with it.
You're smart to have tossed your cell phone. I got rid of my cell phone about 14 years ago and never looked back. I'm SO glad I did. It's made all the difference in my life. I'm very happy and always upbeat now and I don't worry about being tracked. When I go out I'm totally free and it's such a... well, FREEING feeling. I can't even express how much better off I am with out a cell phone. It's great!
Great insight, thank you. I went the minimalist route a few years back when I moved to SE Asia. And have been thinking about an off-road lifestyle when I head back to the US. So was happy to find your channel. Love it!
Great system!!!! My husband has to have his caffeine, so we have an additional 'sub' station with French press/ coffee/ and makings in shoe box plastic container!
Long time backpacker and new to the car/truck camping life. I think you nailed it with this video. Really great job of covering the essentials and what you've found to work. I couldn't agree more with the minimalist strategy.
Thanks Michael! Yeah, the minimalist lifestyle is so rewarding. I hope others get a chance to experience this way of living, it's really opened my eyes.
TIP: get one of those scented wax warmers, add Vaseline instead of the wax, once it liquifies dip the cotton balls in the liquid Vaseline. So much easier, faster, & completely permeates the cotton balls. Also could use antibiotic ointment instead of Vaseline for multi-purpose. Most antibiotic ointments are made from a petroleum base just like Vaseline and will burn the same, but has the benefit of being a first aid item as well.
Cool channel man. Doing it well. Subbed for sure. My truck includes my hammock, it's rain fly, and an extra tarp. Having that hammock, in addition to a plush chair, is absolutely indispensable for adding to the relaxation of a well built camp.
Good advice. However, two things that make a difference between an enjoyable experience vs a miserable one are showers and toilets. I LOVE the shower rig you mentioned, but I didn't see anything about a good toilet solution. Personally, I use a cheap little potty shelter tent and inside I place a homemade urinal alongside a hospital toilet chair I found at a garage sale. Works ok for a campsite...a whole lot better than using a bucket...and if you have females in the group, they will love you for it. But...those items are rather bulky so transport is an issue. What do you suggest?
Yeah, I hear ya man. I toiled in the Corp World for 19 years before I plotted my escape. Life is much more simple on the road and doesn't require much money each month to enjoy life. Quite the change from the person I used to be but I wouldn't have it any other way!
Wow! What a set up. I think you have worked out the kinks. I can't wait for the time to come in my life when we can go full time over the road/off the grid and lose the cell phone. I purposely go places where there is no cell service. New subscriber and can't wait to see more.
Thanks Dave for subscribing! I'm in the process of doing a few new videos - one on my budget to travel full time and another video on the gear I carry with me at all times. I'll be posting them in the next week so stay tuned for more videos!
Truck camping is hard to beat if you plan to take the path less followed, literally. As an old backpacker, I already own the lightweight, compact gear that makes the truck practical. But if starting from scratch and sticking to campsites a contractors or conversion van is a better option. The pass-through feature of vans and RV's is a total game changer. Crawling into a pickup truck bed works when your're young and camping solo but its a tight fit for a couple and condensation can ruin a nights sleep. Plus, you'll need to exit the truck to do anything but sleep. Inside the van, can cook, crap, dress, sleep,wash up, start the vehicle, run the ac/heat radio and bug out in a flash if needed. I used to hang my bicycle from the ceiling, kept almost everything inside when camping and still space to sleep on a Stearns and Foster twin mattress. I miss those days.
I added a 65 qt Whynter Fridge/freezer to my system. It will run off the Tacoma inverter outlet while driving and will automatically switch to my secondary battery when truck is off. It only draws 4- 5 amps when running. You should check them out, they have smaller models.
Nice video! Great six points. I'm going to set up a soap & water squirter as you describe - will save both water and soap! I have a long bed Tacoma with a Leer cap (4" over roof line height - great for head room). Use a simple Roll-a-Cot & Thermarest pad for my "sleeping set". The cot has no middle leg - so it fits tight against the side of the truck. I use the same long plastic storage bin you have under my cot, and one or two (depending on gear needs) stackable bins. I like a simple camping mode set-up, yet I can have an empty bed in say 5 minutes for cargo carrying truck use. A RTIC 35 qt cooler and small propane stove for food, and two 20liter water containers that have spigots. I run paracord above my screened windows...and my towels and such can be used as sun shields/drapes as needed, and hung for drying too. I have a swivel mount LED light set up at rear of the cap for good interior or tailgate illumination. I find the tailgate serves many roles: table, chair, food prep...so having illumination right there is critical. At times use a 8x12 tarp with two poles as a rear or side mounted sun/rain shelter. I love having the flexibility of a 4x4 truck. Cap off, cap on, cargo, or camping - it can do it all.
I really like this video. Great info. I have a 2001 Toyota Tundra 4x4. I am looking forward to doing the same as you. What roof rack do you have? Could you give me some more info on how you made your bed frame? Like where did you put the 2x6's ? Thanks again.
I don't know where you're at or what year this video was made but you had a lot of valid points and I'm living in a truck and yes I have a tent but I'm completely self-sufficient and a lot of things that you said were very relevant to what it's like to actually live out of a vehicle so thank you for your in-depth knowledge of ways to live comfortably enjoy nature
Recently, I had been rear ended twice last month. Now, I’m a little afraid to drive. I thought a truck can give me more protection in case of getting hit again. That is why I just bought Taco SR RWD with Tonneau hard flip up cover. But now I think I should have 4WD and truck cap for over landing ( maybe not in Florida?) and camping. Thank you so much. It’s been very educational watching your TH-cam. Yama
Excellent video. If you don't have room to carry a chainsaw a hand-held wood saw is super important in the backcountry. Once I was way out of the Sawtooths and a fierce storm came through and fell a lot of trees. One fell across the road that I was on and there were so many trees there's no way to get around. being able to saw through a tree and also have a towing rope to pull the tree out of the way. Luckily my 04 Tacoma went right over the top of the tree and I was able to escape. Peace in the backcountry.
Just out of curiosity the tacoma in the video does it have 4wd, and if not how is it going off the grid. I just recently purchased a 2013 trd sport and my son and I want to go camping, but was told that it wasn't thw truck for that due to it being 2wd.
Wow! I have just discovered you!Thank you for the incredible basic information,just the way I wanted it.Congratulations,keep up the wonderful work!rocco.
Thanks for the video. In the process of buying my truck camper and look forward to getting out on the road. This video helped me get my necessities list going.
Thank you for all the useful information. You seem to have it down and it really works well for you. I have an ARE insulated cap coming in soon and that's my first step. Really looking forward to my home away from home, and your minimalist, no nonsense modular mind set really appeals to me !!!! I'll be watching more of your videos for sure !!! Just subscribed !!!
Hello Dale, thanks for watching. Yes, here is the link for the Roadshower I use. I can vouch for this product, it's really great and I love using it. roadshower.com
Colorado Boon Docking!!! Out of Colorado Springs. Realizing the age of this video, you still provide a lot of useful info. Cold weather camping for me: 2019 F150 SuperCrew w/5.5 bed SPORT w/ ARE cab high shell w/ Bedrug. Cold weather time the shell windows are covered with thin aluminum from Homer’s secured in place via Velcro. Custom built wood bed at front of shell, Mr Buddy heater via 10 foot hose to 20gal tank outside with thermoelectric fan to spread the warmth, (and it does get warm) CO2 detector with shell front window slightly open. Blankets are mostly the moving blankets bought on sale from Harbor Freight. Homer bucket with seat and liners for long distance phone calls?!?! Food grade buckets 3.5 to 5 gal (free-courtesy of local food stores) for water supply for me and dog. 2 additional 5 gal water bags (shower bags) for washing up! Setpower 50 portable fridge powered via HF Predator 2000 (no neighbors= no noise complaints). Various books and/or magazines (no WWW). Better half has map that shows where I will be! Protection is afforded via Glock 40 in 10mm and bear spray! Tarps with homemade telescoping poles sourced from Homer’s provide overhead shelter and wind block! When done: if I trucked it in, I trucked it out! Leave no trace!
Hi. Could you explain the build of the platform a bit more, with dimensions? I understand you used 2x6s and plywood (3/4”?), but cut to what size and how attached? Thanks!
Just some things to try for 3 season shower 6+" pvc pipe for shower, can add bike tube stem &fill hole paint black, mount on rack, next a Sven saw or Silky sawing is much better than chopping, Eastwing is bulletproof & affordable, have you done vid on why the TRD?
Great advise, I appreciate your hard work and sharing with us your thoughts of how to camp in a truck. I'll be driving from Calgary, Canada 🇨🇦 to Santiago del Estero in Argentina and I'm in the process of planning and organizing the vehicle. Regards, Victor
You have a nice setup for a solo camper. I went with a High -C camper shell when I truck camped. set it up with two small bunks in a 6.5 foot bed. That way my son and I could go explore. The extra height was nice, and still had a rack setup on top. Former backbacker so no shortage of lightweight equipment. Then I moved on to motorcycle camping, but now I haul a small bike in the bed and use a truck tent when I get to camp and use the motorcycle to explore the surrounding countryside. Of course that means my gear is in the cab of the truck.
What do you do when you get ready to sleep about closing the tailgate & camper top? TIA. Also, thank you for covering everything possible to be out there comfortable.
Might want to look into Wolverine Water bottles, they have a clear plastic that helps to solar disinfect well water / clear stream water. They are VERY TOUGH too ! Mayor Fuglycool
How do you keep the smoke from the fire (from your clothing) from seeping into everything including the inside of the truck , sleeping bags etc. ?Great vids ! enjoying them ..
Great video! I would love to know what you have in the second storage bin. Looked like kitchen stuff but I’d love to know your bare necessities kitchen items. Thanks again
Thxx a lot for this value information! I'm from Miami and I'm a beginner in truck camping. I'm planning to do some camping trips to the west soon with my tacoma. I'm want to get a diamond bed cover with 2 single racks on top to carry the bed tent. Question, in ur opinion, which is a good water shower to get, and can I carry the shower as well as the tent on the bed racks? I prefer the bed cover with the single racks because other racks leave the bed open, and don't want to close it with a bed roof cap. Thxx again for ur help and time!
I gave a thumbs up because this is a great way to get out there....However, for me, a truck canopy that low forces me to pretzel myself every time I gat in and out. better to take a medium sized tent and a cot with a good thick self inflating pad. If I can't get sitting headroom from a cot, it's a No Go setup.
Little late to the party but check out Chargetech! They make battery packs that have a 120 plug and up to 54000mah. I have mine plugged into my truck bed outlet so it charges when I drive. Can run my fans and my 1200 lumen led light for well over 8 hours and use about half a charge on my 27,000mah powerbank
You’re the real deal man. I like the minimalist truck bed 🛏 system set up because you’re right, sometimes you need the bed system out of the way to use the full truck bed. Awesome video
I just subscribed. I just finished the sleeper bed / storage platform on my '04 Tacoma last weekend. I'm also 6' tall and I fit quite nicely in my 5 ft bed. I also built it so I have the ability to extend the bed out on to the tailgate when I have company. I bought one of the truck tents to keep us out of the weather. Great info. Thanks for sharing.
I have a 5 foot bed on my Nissan Frontier. i have been having a hard time finding a camper for that size and the ones I've found are really expensive. So, I thought about getting a welder do a frame shell in Mexico, I found one guy who can do it for $110.00 bucks. My goal is to live in it so I can focus my income on buying land here in Mexico and rent a RV space rent, I found one for $200a month with electric and water/sewer and being a Mexican citizen I can easily buy land for under $200 a month on payments. Ive been stressing so much at the cost of putting a camper together but after seeing yours I narrowed it down close to your camper and essential requirements to live off it. I lived for 3 months in my pick up, no camper no nothing. I had to stop doing it because I got tired of finding a bathroom and moving all over but soon after that I found out about the bucket bathroom! Duh! I love the idea of having that rack on top to carry extra things and using my roof cab for solar panels. I can deal living in a 5ft tiny camper because I know I'm going to save tons of money and buy my land for a few hundred bucks month and then I can focus on a bigger trailer to live on once I put the concrete down on the land I buy. I've learned a lot about propane and things you can run it for, amazing! You can literally live off the grid in a trailer!
I am so excited that I stumbled across your video. I'm in Australia and regularly car camp (26 and haven't been in a tent in 6 years). Your vehicle camp is almost identical to ours and I was wondering how you combat the issue of storing wood, fuel, rubbish and water when you are on the road. We are thinking of utilising the roof space but would love your input as we seem to be on the same wave length in terms of how we are set up! We travel with our Golden Retriever too so any dog suggestions would be great. I'm off to check out all your other videos! Thanks in advance!!!
Hi Lynda, thanks for the comment! You are correct, I store all of the items you mentioned above on my roof rack. I also keep a small container of water inside my topper to compliment the 5 gallon Roadshower I have mounted to my roof rack. I typically try to cook meals which don't cause trash, that way I can stay in the backcountry longer and not worry about attracting animals to scented trash. In regards to traveling with a dog, I've found window shades and a battery operated fan work GREAT at keeping your pet cool while you run short errands like going to the store, post office, etc. Also, a good walk before bedtime is always good for my dog. She loves to get a bit of exercise and the opportunity to use the restroom before we lock up for the evening and go to bed. If you have any additional questions then feel free to let me know! I can be reached at Brian@ColoradoBackcountryAdventures.com. Cheers!
Stumbled upon your channel. Just got a TRD OR DCLB. Trying to figure out how to set it up for long term living and this is great information. Without having to buy a trailer, I can now bring my home with me when working seasonal jobs.
What is the water source for your shower? You showed the Nosal but not the storage. Does it heat by solar. Not clear on the water. What about the toilet? And how do you wash dishes or after cooking meals? Garbage? I really appreciate your direct style, open and anticipatory thinking. Thanks!!
As long as it isn't an air mattress then you should be set. The air mattresses get too cold but if you get some sort of memory foam mattress then you'll be really comfortable.
that's not pure sine wave inverter and will destroy electronics over time. power went out for 3 weeks from three ripping power off my house. ran 4 things off an inverter, with in 6 months all 4 quit working either all together or partial. my tv the menus would constantly pop up and couldn't set anything, ipod broke, lab top the keyboard stopped working
hey man, you said you didn't have a cell phone, i cancelled mine too after a friend told me about freedom pop. you do have to pay to turn off automatic top off but after that i haven't spend anything on it. i get 500 text, 500 mb, and 200 talk. and it works on wifi even if you're not in a coverage area. it's free, so i figured i'd mention it. they do offer services much much cheaper than other companies. just biggest advice is to downgrade at the end of your free trial and turn off automatic top off. you can renew the amount you paid to turn off top off (doesn't cost extra).
Great tips! It's funny because we have basically the same setup with the low cost sleeping platform. Definitely interested in the hygiene aspects you mention. I also have the MSR Pocket Rocket stove, but I want to get a single or dual burner stove for bigger meals. Thanks for the advice!
Thanks Jonathan! I'm planning to put together a video about camp hygiene and get it posted this week. Looks like the weather here is going to be nice after tomorrow so I'll plan to get a video posted before Friday. Hope your weekend has been a good one!
Old money saving tip from the countryside - no need to make/buy Firestarters, simply use a candle in the fire until it gets going. Can even use something like cheap tea-lights, and as you don't need them for long each day they will last ages.
Just found, and subbed, your channel. Question, any chance you have a why you're doing what you're doing video coming up soon? Didn't see one on your channel page. Great content btw!
Hey Kevin! Thanks for the comment! Good idea, I will shoot a video explaining why I decided to ditch my Corp Career to live out in nature full time. I'll shoot the video and have it up by Friday. Cheers!
A realistic, affordable outfit for truck camping. I e watched a lot of videos on overland/normal truck camping rigs and its cool and all but when you start adding up the dollars its ridiculously expensive. Awesome video, thank you for the info!
I agree forget the rack and all the other camping junk. all you need is the truck you have , a shell, then build a sleeping platform. can hit the road and see what your really going to need . not going to need 90% of the junk in the trunk
I love when I see guys that actually go! Sounds sarcastic but I know cats with 30k setups that stare at there equipment. This guys spent a couple hundred and is getting after it. Great job man
I hear ya buddy. I so tire of these Overlanding TH-cam channels that are in reality all faked and scripted non-sense. Those channels are all about trying to get you to Buy Outdoor Junk. The reason I want to spend as much time in the back country is to get away from Materialism and this Screwed up world. I dont want nor do I need to take all that expensive crap with me to enjoy nature. Ill be honest the most peaceful and contented dudes I have seen in the back country are those types that have very very little. Some people would call them Hobos or indignant even. But there those dudes are with that million mile wide smile and eyes that look like deep pools. It's not what you spend on your rig or your gear. it is the fact that you actually use those things up. Wear them out through Experience......
You shouldn't bother watching those guys
@@evopwrmods The smiles and the eyes..lol..Now I'm convinced!!
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
I love the idea of just having the necessities and still being able to live comfortably. I can't wait to get started on my setup.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
Great audio, great video, but most importantly great information. This is the kinds of video that gets views my friend
Thanks Buddy! Look forward to hanging out this summer. I switched cameras (again) to a more compact model. I picked up a Canon GX9 - fits in my pocket as opposed to the bigger camera I had which was really bulky. I like it, still learning all the features. Really pleased with it.
Colorado Backcountry Adventures it works great!!
Thanks so much for your Great camping tipps. You have no idea how much you help us dummies from the big city. Thanks so much...
... "The More You Know, The Less You Carry". Mors Kochanski
You're smart to have tossed your cell phone. I got rid of my cell phone about 14 years ago and never looked back. I'm SO glad I did. It's made all the difference in my life. I'm very happy and always upbeat now and I don't worry about being tracked. When I go out I'm totally free and it's such a... well, FREEING feeling. I can't even express how much better off I am with out a cell phone. It's great!
Love that bigfoot sticker on the side of the truck 👍
Great insight, thank you. I went the minimalist route a few years back when I moved to SE Asia. And have been thinking about an off-road lifestyle when I head back to the US. So was happy to find your channel. Love it!
Great system!!!! My husband has to have his caffeine, so we have an additional 'sub' station with French press/ coffee/ and makings in shoe box plastic container!
For a lighter-weight option, you should check out the aeropress. I really don't do anything overnight without it, whether it's work or personal trip.
Long time backpacker and new to the car/truck camping life. I think you nailed it with this video. Really great job of covering the essentials and what you've found to work. I couldn't agree more with the minimalist strategy.
Thanks Michael! Yeah, the minimalist lifestyle is so rewarding. I hope others get a chance to experience this way of living, it's really opened my eyes.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
TIP: get one of those scented wax warmers, add Vaseline instead of the wax, once it liquifies dip the cotton balls in the liquid Vaseline. So much easier, faster, & completely permeates the cotton balls.
Also could use antibiotic ointment instead of Vaseline for multi-purpose. Most antibiotic ointments are made from a petroleum base just like Vaseline and will burn the same, but has the benefit of being a first aid item as well.
Love the Sasquatch hiking sticker!
Awesome video, great information newbies and veterans alike ! Thanks for taking the time to share this with us .
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
Cool channel man. Doing it well. Subbed for sure.
My truck includes my hammock, it's rain fly, and an extra tarp. Having that hammock, in addition to a plush chair, is absolutely indispensable for adding to the relaxation of a well built camp.
Effective setup and well delivered presentation. Love the GPS texting that will be moving up my list. Thanks Brian
Good advice. However, two things that make a difference between an enjoyable experience vs a miserable one are showers and toilets. I LOVE the shower rig you mentioned, but I didn't see anything about a good toilet solution. Personally, I use a cheap little potty shelter tent and inside I place a homemade urinal alongside a hospital toilet chair I found at a garage sale. Works ok for a campsite...a whole lot better than using a bucket...and if you have females in the group, they will love you for it. But...those items are rather bulky so transport is an issue. What do you suggest?
Full-time live-aboard since 2003.
Poop -- on a newspaper, bag it.
.
Pee -- in a laundry detergent jug.
Knock the spout on a sidewalk for a 2" opening.
Dig a hole, poop in it, cover it up. Simple.
Wow that GPS thing is seriously cool. I want to get one of those
I did too until I found out it wouldn't take a chip. Using On-X maps and other programs isn't an option. For $400 it should.
Great Vid but, you forgot a Canopy or Tarp, they come in handy for shade , wind break or ground barriers
Man I wish I could do this, But I have to go to stupid work !
Yeah, I hear ya man. I toiled in the Corp World for 19 years before I plotted my escape. Life is much more simple on the road and doesn't require much money each month to enjoy life. Quite the change from the person I used to be but I wouldn't have it any other way!
what do you do for money if you don't mind me asking.?
You can utilize “use” in place of utilize; it uses less syllables-keeping true to minimalism. Just teasing-great video!
Somebody learned a new word, lol. It seems to be an epidemic on TH-cam, kind of like these people that begin every sentence with "so", arrrgh!
As long as he doesn’t say like every 6 words I’m fine.
Agreed!
I share that (aka 'exact/same') opinion.
Wow! What a set up. I think you have worked out the kinks. I can't wait for the time to come in my life when we can go full time over the road/off the grid and lose the cell phone. I purposely go places where there is no cell service. New subscriber and can't wait to see more.
Thanks Dave for subscribing! I'm in the process of doing a few new videos - one on my budget to travel full time and another video on the gear I carry with me at all times. I'll be posting them in the next week so stay tuned for more videos!
Truck camping is hard to beat if you plan to take the path less followed, literally. As an old backpacker, I already own the lightweight, compact gear that makes the truck practical. But if starting from scratch and sticking to campsites a contractors or conversion van is a better option. The pass-through feature of vans and RV's is a total game changer. Crawling into a pickup truck bed works when your're young and camping solo but its a tight fit for a couple and condensation can ruin a nights sleep. Plus, you'll need to exit the truck to do anything but sleep. Inside the van, can cook, crap, dress, sleep,wash up, start the vehicle, run the ac/heat radio and bug out in a flash if needed. I used to hang my bicycle from the ceiling, kept almost everything inside when camping and still space to sleep on a Stearns and Foster twin mattress. I miss those days.
Great set up in a truck topper camper! I love those insulated A.R.E caps. Thank you for sharing. 👍
like your setup looking at getting a truck for camping and road trips. good info thanks for sharing and safe travels
I added a 65 qt Whynter Fridge/freezer to my system. It will run off the Tacoma inverter outlet while driving and will automatically switch to my secondary battery when truck is off. It only draws 4- 5 amps when running. You should check them out, they have smaller models.
I'd be interested in a 35qt or comparable size so I'll see what Whynter has in that size. Thanks for the recommendation!
Nice video! Great six points. I'm going to set up a soap & water squirter as you describe - will save both water and soap!
I have a long bed Tacoma with a Leer cap (4" over roof line height - great for head room). Use a simple Roll-a-Cot & Thermarest pad for my "sleeping set". The cot has no middle leg - so it fits tight against the side of the truck. I use the same long plastic storage bin you have under my cot, and one or two (depending on gear needs) stackable bins. I like a simple camping mode set-up, yet I can have an empty bed in say 5 minutes for cargo carrying truck use. A RTIC 35 qt cooler and small propane stove for food, and two 20liter water containers that have spigots. I run paracord above my screened windows...and my towels and such can be used as sun shields/drapes as needed, and hung for drying too.
I have a swivel mount LED light set up at rear of the cap for good interior or tailgate illumination. I find the tailgate serves many roles: table, chair, food prep...so having illumination right there is critical.
At times use a 8x12 tarp with two poles as a rear or side mounted sun/rain shelter.
I love having the flexibility of a 4x4 truck. Cap off, cap on, cargo, or camping - it can do it all.
I really like this video. Great info. I have a 2001 Toyota Tundra 4x4. I am looking forward to doing the same as you.
What roof rack do you have? Could you give me some more info on how you made your bed frame? Like where did you put the 2x6's ?
Thanks again.
I don't know where you're at or what year this video was made but you had a lot of valid points and I'm living in a truck and yes I have a tent but I'm completely self-sufficient and a lot of things that you said were very relevant to what it's like to actually live out of a vehicle so thank you for your in-depth knowledge of ways to live comfortably enjoy nature
Recently, I had been rear ended twice last month. Now, I’m a little afraid to drive. I thought a truck can give me more protection in case of getting hit again. That is why I just bought Taco SR RWD with Tonneau hard flip up cover. But now I think I should have 4WD and truck cap for over landing ( maybe not in Florida?) and camping.
Thank you so much. It’s been very educational watching your TH-cam. Yama
Excellent video. If you don't have room to carry a chainsaw a hand-held wood saw is super important in the backcountry. Once I was way out of the Sawtooths and a fierce storm came through and fell a lot of trees. One fell across the road that I was on and there were so many trees there's no way to get around. being able to saw through a tree and also have a towing rope to pull the tree out of the way. Luckily my 04 Tacoma went right over the top of the tree and I was able to escape. Peace in the backcountry.
Just out of curiosity the tacoma in the video does it have 4wd, and if not how is it going off the grid. I just recently purchased a 2013 trd sport and my son and I want to go camping, but was told that it wasn't thw truck for that due to it being 2wd.
4wd is obviously nice but, you’d be able to go plenty of places in 2nd. Just be cautious not to get into deep mud or sand.
Thank you!!!!! It was hard for me to find someone camping in a Tacoma short bed!! I'm excited to do my setup fairly soon!
the soap and water in a bottle was the biggest thing i would have not thought of.
I'm assuming that's a 6ft bed.
It's a 5' 5" bed
Wow! I have just discovered you!Thank you for the incredible basic information,just the way I wanted it.Congratulations,keep up the wonderful work!rocco.
Thanks for the video. In the process of buying my truck camper and look forward to getting out on the road. This video helped me get my necessities list going.
Thank you for all the useful information. You seem to have it down and it really works well for you. I have an ARE insulated cap coming in soon and that's my first step. Really looking forward to my home away from home, and your minimalist, no nonsense modular mind set really appeals to me !!!! I'll be watching more of your videos for sure !!! Just subscribed !!!
Where do you do your #2s? I thought a toilet would be one of essential 6.
He also said he doesn’t like using paper products😬
That's what a hole in the ground is for
*cathole* problem solved
Great Set up! I love the utilization of hiking gear
Thanks Jonny DIY!
Where do you go when you have to go? Lol. I’d say that’s the 7th think people would generally want to know.
Great video as always! I think I may try to insulate my truck cap this summer, if I don't score a 4x4 ambulance to travel with. Peace!
Good morning, I just found your your channel, really enjoying it. I am very interested in your shower system. Do you have a link? thanks.
Hello Dale, thanks for watching. Yes, here is the link for the Roadshower I use. I can vouch for this product, it's really great and I love using it. roadshower.com
Hi, just found you and I love the video a LOT and I am so glad that someone asked about the shower. . .I was gonna so thanks Dale❣
Colorado Boon Docking!!! Out of Colorado Springs. Realizing the age of this video, you still provide a lot of useful info. Cold weather camping for me: 2019 F150 SuperCrew w/5.5 bed SPORT w/ ARE cab high shell w/ Bedrug. Cold weather time the shell windows are covered with thin aluminum from Homer’s secured in place via Velcro. Custom built wood bed at front of shell, Mr Buddy heater via 10 foot hose to 20gal tank outside with thermoelectric fan to spread the warmth, (and it does get warm) CO2 detector with shell front window slightly open. Blankets are mostly the moving blankets bought on sale from Harbor Freight. Homer bucket with seat and liners for long distance phone calls?!?! Food grade buckets 3.5 to 5 gal (free-courtesy of local food stores) for water supply for me and dog. 2 additional 5 gal water bags (shower bags) for washing up! Setpower 50 portable fridge powered via HF Predator 2000 (no neighbors= no noise complaints). Various books and/or magazines (no WWW). Better half has map that shows where I will be! Protection is afforded via Glock 40 in 10mm and bear spray! Tarps with homemade telescoping poles sourced from Homer’s provide overhead shelter and wind block! When done: if I trucked it in, I trucked it out! Leave no trace!
Hi. Could you explain the build of the platform a bit more, with dimensions? I understand you used 2x6s and plywood (3/4”?), but cut to what size and how attached? Thanks!
Just some things to try for 3 season shower 6+" pvc pipe for shower, can add bike tube stem &fill hole paint black, mount on rack, next a Sven saw or Silky sawing is much better than chopping, Eastwing is bulletproof & affordable, have you done vid on why the TRD?
HI, great and informative video. Could you give a little more info on the rooftop tank heater....thanks.
You bet, check out the full details at www.RoadShower.com. I really love this product!
Great advise, I appreciate your hard work and sharing with us your thoughts of how to camp in a truck.
I'll be driving from Calgary, Canada 🇨🇦 to Santiago del Estero in Argentina and I'm in the process of planning and organizing the vehicle.
Regards,
Victor
You have a nice setup for a solo camper. I went with a High -C camper shell when I truck camped. set it up with two small bunks in a 6.5 foot bed. That way my son and I could go explore. The extra height was nice, and still had a rack setup on top. Former backbacker so no shortage of lightweight equipment. Then I moved on to motorcycle camping, but now I haul a small bike in the bed and use a truck tent when I get to camp and use the motorcycle to explore the surrounding countryside. Of course that means my gear is in the cab of the truck.
What do you do when you get ready to sleep about closing the tailgate & camper top? TIA. Also, thank you for covering everything possible to be out there comfortable.
Rubing alcohol and baby wipes are Also good to help clean up .
Getting ready to do the full time off grid thing myself, so far your set up is what I will be using. Thank you for sharing.
Very informative. Love the decal on the fender of your pickup. :)
Love the video but the dude says utilize probably 50 times
This was a great utilization of the comment feature.
Lov truck camping thanks for the tips gonna get those things for sure
Might want to look into Wolverine Water bottles, they have a clear plastic that helps to solar disinfect well water / clear stream water. They are VERY TOUGH too !
Mayor Fuglycool
Coleman, GLADIATOR™ SERIES FYREKNIGHT. No wings needed. pricey though.
How do you keep the smoke from the fire (from your clothing) from seeping into everything including the inside of the truck , sleeping bags etc. ?Great vids ! enjoying them ..
So glad I found you! Thanks for all the details (exact brands + why); so helpful!
I really appreciate your simple approach to the lifestyle. Many people spend too much time on the frills. This was very helpful
Great video! I would love to know what you have in the second storage bin. Looked like kitchen stuff but I’d love to know your bare necessities kitchen items. Thanks again
Just look at your vid list, OMG it's bing watching time again !!!!!!!!
Thxx a lot for this value information! I'm from Miami and I'm a beginner in truck camping. I'm planning to do some camping trips to the west soon with my tacoma. I'm want to get a diamond bed cover with 2 single racks on top to carry the bed tent. Question, in ur opinion, which is a good water shower to get, and can I carry the shower as well as the tent on the bed racks? I prefer the bed cover with the single racks because other racks leave the bed open, and don't want to close it with a bed roof cap. Thxx again for ur help and time!
To sleep do you close up the tailgate and cover door? Or do you leave it open and use some kind of screen?
I gave a thumbs up because this is a great way to get out there....However, for me, a truck canopy that low forces me to pretzel myself every time I gat in and out. better to take a medium sized tent and a cot with a good thick self inflating pad. If I can't get sitting headroom from a cot, it's a No Go setup.
Little late to the party but check out Chargetech! They make battery packs that have a 120 plug and up to 54000mah. I have mine plugged into my truck bed outlet so it charges when I drive. Can run my fans and my 1200 lumen led light for well over 8 hours and use about half a charge on my 27,000mah powerbank
I want to see a demonstration of how you get into bed…the headroom seems rather low. How do you close the tailgate when you’re in bed?
Like the firestarter/napalm hack. Thumbs up!
Utilize... great video though very helpful information.
He does utilize the word utilize a lot! It almost drove me nuts! I just use the word use because I'm a simple man.
Caleb Neiman I did the same!
You’re the real deal man. I like the minimalist truck bed 🛏 system set up because you’re right, sometimes you need the bed system out of the way to use the full truck bed. Awesome video
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
I just subscribed. I just finished the sleeper bed / storage platform on my '04 Tacoma last weekend. I'm also 6' tall and I fit quite nicely in my 5 ft bed. I also built it so I have the ability to extend the bed out on to the tailgate when I have company. I bought one of the truck tents to keep us out of the weather. Great info. Thanks for sharing.
I have a 5 foot bed on my Nissan Frontier. i have been having a hard time finding a camper for that size and the ones I've found are really expensive. So, I thought about getting a welder do a frame shell in Mexico, I found one guy who can do it for $110.00 bucks. My goal is to live in it so I can focus my income on buying land here in Mexico and rent a RV space rent, I found one for $200a month with electric and water/sewer and being a Mexican citizen I can easily buy land for under $200 a month on payments. Ive been stressing so much at the cost of putting a camper together but after seeing yours I narrowed it down close to your camper and essential requirements to live off it. I lived for 3 months in my pick up, no camper no nothing. I had to stop doing it because I got tired of finding a bathroom and moving all over but soon after that I found out about the bucket bathroom! Duh! I love the idea of having that rack on top to carry extra things and using my roof cab for solar panels. I can deal living in a 5ft tiny camper because I know I'm going to save tons of money and buy my land for a few hundred bucks month and then I can focus on a bigger trailer to live on once I put the concrete down on the land I buy. I've learned a lot about propane and things you can run it for, amazing! You can literally live off the grid in a trailer!
I am so excited that I stumbled across your video. I'm in Australia and regularly car camp (26 and haven't been in a tent in 6 years). Your vehicle camp is almost identical to ours and I was wondering how you combat the issue of storing wood, fuel, rubbish and water when you are on the road. We are thinking of utilising the roof space but would love your input as we seem to be on the same wave length in terms of how we are set up! We travel with our Golden Retriever too so any dog suggestions would be great. I'm off to check out all your other videos! Thanks in advance!!!
Hi Lynda, thanks for the comment! You are correct, I store all of the items you mentioned above on my roof rack. I also keep a small container of water inside my topper to compliment the 5 gallon Roadshower I have mounted to my roof rack. I typically try to cook meals which don't cause trash, that way I can stay in the backcountry longer and not worry about attracting animals to scented trash. In regards to traveling with a dog, I've found window shades and a battery operated fan work GREAT at keeping your pet cool while you run short errands like going to the store, post office, etc. Also, a good walk before bedtime is always good for my dog. She loves to get a bit of exercise and the opportunity to use the restroom before we lock up for the evening and go to bed. If you have any additional questions then feel free to let me know! I can be reached at Brian@ColoradoBackcountryAdventures.com. Cheers!
@@OffGridBackcountryAdventures by
Stumbled upon your channel. Just got a TRD OR DCLB. Trying to figure out how to set it up for long term living and this is great information. Without having to buy a trailer, I can now bring my home with me when working seasonal jobs.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
What is the water source for your shower? You showed the Nosal but not the storage. Does it heat by solar. Not clear on the water. What about the toilet? And how do you wash dishes or after cooking meals? Garbage? I really appreciate your direct style, open and anticipatory thinking. Thanks!!
Is it worth buying one of the truck bed mattresses? Preparing for fall hunt was thinking of moving from canvas tent to truck bed
As long as it isn't an air mattress then you should be set. The air mattresses get too cold but if you get some sort of memory foam mattress then you'll be really comfortable.
very informative. I purchased your plans for the bed extension a while back adapted to my f150 crew cab 4x4 with the same topper you have
I’m trying to go truck camping across the USA, from NC, to Cali and back, any tips??
7th component, always get a handsome fella like you on your journeys !
Excellent video and great information covering the basics (which is what everyone needs). Well done! Scott
This is the kind of videos I like to watch. Thank you and subbed..
Awesome, thanks for the positive feedback!
that's not pure sine wave inverter and will destroy electronics over time. power went out for 3 weeks from three ripping power off my house. ran 4 things off an inverter, with in 6 months all 4 quit working either all together or partial. my tv the menus would constantly pop up and couldn't set anything, ipod broke, lab top the keyboard stopped working
All of that was awesome information!!!
Sorry to hear the Yeti was stolen, that's really gotta suck!
Great meeting you today! Chance encounter but really cool to see your set up in person!
How about the roofrack/canopy?
hey man, you said you didn't have a cell phone, i cancelled mine too after a friend told me about freedom pop. you do have to pay to turn off automatic top off but after that i haven't spend anything on it. i get 500 text, 500 mb, and 200 talk. and it works on wifi even if you're not in a coverage area. it's free, so i figured i'd mention it. they do offer services much much cheaper than other companies. just biggest advice is to downgrade at the end of your free trial and turn off automatic top off. you can renew the amount you paid to turn off top off (doesn't cost extra).
just curious about the setup on the top of the canopy, the awning. Could you mention a little about that, Thanks
Great video. One question....when it is raining...how do you keep getting fresh air? I have the same truck and it gets wet if I have the windows open.
I also am wondering this! Any pointers? Don’t want to completely close up or it feels like a coffin in there…
Great tips! It's funny because we have basically the same setup with the low cost sleeping platform. Definitely interested in the hygiene aspects you mention. I also have the MSR Pocket Rocket stove, but I want to get a single or dual burner stove for bigger meals. Thanks for the advice!
Thanks Jonathan! I'm planning to put together a video about camp hygiene and get it posted this week. Looks like the weather here is going to be nice after tomorrow so I'll plan to get a video posted before Friday. Hope your weekend has been a good one!
@@OffGridBackcountryAdventures LLP
Do you have any videos on how you made the shower?
Old money saving tip from the countryside - no need to make/buy Firestarters, simply use a candle in the fire until it gets going. Can even use something like cheap tea-lights, and as you don't need them for long each day they will last ages.
Safer to sleep in any Topper, Van, suv while camping 🏕 due to friendly animals.
Very informative, I will definitely utilize this information. Thank you!
Very informative. Thank you. Just setting up my gear and your comments are spot on.
Just found, and subbed, your channel. Question, any chance you have a why you're doing what you're doing video coming up soon? Didn't see one on your channel page. Great content btw!
Hey Kevin! Thanks for the comment! Good idea, I will shoot a video explaining why I decided to ditch my Corp Career to live out in nature full time. I'll shoot the video and have it up by Friday. Cheers!
Now that is customer service! Thanks, I'd really appreciate it.
My truck box is always full of dust from going down grid roads. How did you seal everything?
No mobile sauna ? So disappointing ! cheers mate, just kidding.
A realistic, affordable outfit for truck camping. I e watched a lot of videos on overland/normal truck camping rigs and its cool and all but when you start adding up the dollars its ridiculously expensive. Awesome video, thank you for the info!
I agree forget the rack and all the other camping junk. all you need is the truck you have , a shell, then build a sleeping platform. can hit the road and see what your really going to need . not going to need 90% of the junk in the trunk
Overall Good but lot of space went unspoken. This set-up is more for remote boondocking. I like to remain near cities
I so Want to down grade so bad...and get a bug out truck camper. I'd need a decent hot spot set up and area for my son. He loves his YoUTube videos
Try making fire starters using old dryer lint and drip melted candle wax on them. Works great.
Yep, those are great! However, I prefer to use petroleum and cottonballs to make fire starters since I don't normally carry extra candle wax with me.
Master Class. Thanks so much! Really well done!