NO BUILD Car Camping Setup: Toyota Matrix (Pontiac Vibe) Version 1
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ต.ค. 2024
- My no build car camping setup for my Toyota Matrix is simple. I can quickly and easily convert my everyday drive into a cozy car camper. I haven't removed seats or had to build a single thing to create this car camper. I hope some of my ideas might give you ideas on converting your own car into a car camper!
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#carcamper
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Thanks for watching! You can find my first car camping trip video here- th-cam.com/video/BEwv6RtfTg4/w-d-xo.html
could you flip over the white stool, and put the water bottles inside it, to make them more stable while driving?
Hi Doreen! Yes! The do fit in the stool. I will try just leaving them on top strapped in and see how that goes, and if it is too 'sloshy' I figured that would be my next try. Good eye!
Great conversion. I've had my Matrix for 17 years and more than 300k mile. It's my workhorse. I love it. And I don't know how, but it seems bigger on the inside! Lol
I like how simple and economical this is, but I do have a question, how do you get out of your bed with no side exits? Do you have to crawl from the front seat into the bed and vice versa to get out?
Hi and thanks for watching! I do have the ability to get out of the passenger side back door, which is right next to my bed. I only use that door when I am at a campsite though. When I am stealth camping, and want to keep it that way, I do crawl from the front seat into the back and vice versa. With the front passenger seat that folds flat it makes it pretty easy to do. Using the back passenger side door is great when I am set up in a campsite though. I can crawl right into bed and close the door. Thanks for the question! Take care~Sue
I also have 2water jugs, 1 for drink and cooking\coffee, the second one I add a little Dawn to the water to have hand washing/ clean up water always available, without having to have soap to pickup
Hi Marcia! That is a great idea👍Thanks so much for sharing it😁❤️
People, make sure Ur water containers are bph free. The sun and heat will create leaching in Ur water on cheap plastic. Great lil video
That's a great tip! My water jugs are safe and made to use with water. I'm down to one now though as one started to leak while we were traveling this winter. Kind of maddening after you've paid for them. Happy camping!
@HoneyandMe I am not talking about "leaking." I am talking about "leaching" this chemical from cheap plastic into your cheap jugs that are not BPH free. The heat and sun starts this chemical reaction and it starts leaching that cheap plastic into your water. Make sure folks that when purchasing plastic water containers that they are BPH free! I love your really helpful videos, girl.
What a fantastic video. Simple, to the point, very well narrated, and informative. Thank you for making car camping that little bit more accessible for us - camping newbies! :)
Thank you so much! It always makes my day to get comments like yours. I hope you'll try car camping. It's a very freeing way to see the country and do it relatively cheaply. I'd love to hear how your experiences go! Take care!-Sue
Love the simplicity of your setup. We’re really happy with our plastic drawers because they are so light and come in so many sizes to fit into the limited space we have. Hope you have a great trip!!
Thanks guys! I’m quite pleased with how well things fit in. I’m impressed with how spacious this little car is inside👍
Great setup!!!! 🤔 How do you take care of #1 and #2 business in the micro camper????
Lol! Good question! I do have a solution and will be sharing that in a future video! Thanks for asking!
This Matrix really works out great for your configuration! The sheet clips really make a big difference! All of your other "accessories" fit great next to the bed 😀
I'm happy with how it's all fitting together! Those clips are such a great invention! They've come in handy for all kinds of stuff. Kind of like 'bungee cords' for fabric! lol! Thanks for watching!-Sue
Oh, I thought U would slide table under Ur bed. Lol. I have a light rv camper folding table. Wood is heavy. Great lil video
Thanks for watching! I used to have 2 really nice little camping tables that were made out of aluminium, but sadly, they were in our travel trailer when it was stolen. The wooden one is not very heavy and I do like wood, and it fits perfectly in the side. Like it was made to be there! Take care!
That white drawer thing HAS to go; it's making your space look cluttered.
Why not just use that wooden chest for your clothes, etc., instead of just a table/surface; it should be a dual-purpose piece.
Thanks for your thoughts! In this video I don’t ‘pack’ the car with my gear, just the containers to put things into.The white drawer actually works great for storing my cooking equipment, bathroom stuff and any odds and ends. I removed the bottom drawer and store my butane stove there. The wooden box holds all my dry goods as far as food goes, so it’s not just a table. I agree the white drawers do make things look crowded and I’m not crazy about the aesthetics,lol! But this was my first no build design, and some things changed as I used it. It did work well for my needs, but I am always on the lookout for the next best thing!👍
@@HoneyandMe Ok. 🤷
Hi again. Here is a safety concern. When I'm driving my Vibe, I raise the back seat back up. I do want not to be in a crash with heavy stuff not secure. It could kill me.
George
Hi George! That is a very legitimate concern. I had taken the precaution of securing my little plastic dresser, which is right behind the driver’s seat, with bungees for just that reason. My water containers are also secured and would be the heaviest thing back there. Loose bits and pieces are something to keep in mind and secured as they could become missiles in a crash. Thank you for pointing this out and I hope you always have safe travels❤️-Sue
Use bar soap on the drawers so they slide better
Great tip! I’m going to try this on all the plastic drawers I have in my craft room too! Thanks for sharing👍😁
Maybe put the drawers in the back and use wood box for nightstand😁
Hi Donna! I actually did try that. Great minds…. Problem was my car’s roof slopes lower towards the back and it wouldn’t fit😢. Thanks for sharing your idea though❤️
Nice job makiig this camper! The plastic table where you are putting the water bottles on, maybe use the rubber shelf liner to help prevent the water bottles from slipping around.
We call those sheet doohicky things Sheet Garters,
Thank you! Yes, the sticky rubber shelf liner stuff! I’ve never heard it called ‘sheet garters’ though😁The water jugs stay nicely in place using the bungee cord to anchor them, but they would definitely do less slipping using a piece of the ‘sheet garter’😁Thanks for the suggestion!
I'm glad I found your series! I just got the same car and am looking to do some van camping too! Couldn't be more perfect :)
Yay!! They are great cars! Good luck with your adventures and thanks for watching!
I found this same headrest clips at Walmart today for $1.99 for 4. End of May 2024 in the auto accessories dept. by the tree shaped air fresheners.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing your discovery!
love the simple and functional setup. Subscribed!
Awesome, thank you! I agree. Simple is the way to go.
I’ve always was nervous to travel but watching your videos encourages me to travel do my dreams to camp! We’re are you located? Ca. Mn. Tx.??
I’m so glad you’ve found some encouragement!! I am in BC, Canada! But heading south in a few weeks!😁Happy camping!❤️
I ran into the useless bottom drawer issue too. I figured out that if I removed the middle drawer I could store all the things I want quick access to.
I purchased 2 of the 3 drawer dressers then attached them to a board on the bottom then another on top. They are set up so that there is space in between them for a huge basket that sits on the bottom. Underneath the top board in the center I screwed the lids of 1/2 pint Mason jars to hold my spices. I keep my skillet, pot, lids, ziplocks, paper towels, kitchen towels and potholders in the basket.
I attached 4 sturdy, steel hooks on each corner of the upper boards to hang my keys, etc on.
It's a very efficient system that was built with zip ties, old boards and a bit of paint.
The best part is the top serves as my counter top for coffee station and my little microwave.
The whole thing sits perfectly next to my bed.
Another cool thing I did was to cut the legs off of an old kitchen chair then painted it red.
I use it in the side door of my van or on the picnic table bench when I want to sit and relax. It gives my old back some much needed support. It slides under my bed for transport taking up very little room. So comfortable and cute!!
Love your setup!!
Mine took 3 years to figure out what works and what makes me happy.
I love wooden things too!!
Great video!!
It's so much fun to camp this way!!
That sounds like an awesome setup!! I ended up removing the bottom drawer in the plastic dresser and can slip my 1 burner butane stove into the space. Gracie, my cat thinks it’s a good place to sleep too. I personally can’t see what is comfortable about sleeping on top of a hard metal stove, but she seems to like it😁I’m looking forward to my next trip and trying some new ideas out. It’s definitely a fluid thing!
Thanks for sharing your setup and happy camping!❤️
Enjoyed this, and found it very helpful.
Thinking seriously of doing this myself!
Go for it! You don't need to set up your car completely just to try it out. I spent the first night in my car in my driveway! And it was a flop. lol! I realized my bed was not thick enough, so was able to remedy that before heading out for a few nights away. Having a comfortable bed can make all the difference! Thanks so much for watching and I really hope you'll try car camping!
Currently doinf my first car camper. Ive got that exact table and its definitely going in the van. Thanks for all the other ideas.
That's so cool! That table has been so handy! Best of everything with your car camper! I wish you many wonderful adventures in it! Take care and thanks for watching!
Love the wooden chest. I had smaller (1.25 gal) hard plastic jugs like those, but they didn't hold up to riding in the van and developed cracks and leaked. Hopefully yours will do better on the stool and bungeed. I still haven't found anything I like. I bought a 2.5gal jug of spring water and will have to replace it when empty. I bet you're good at Tetris!
Thanks Linda! It's had many uses over the years. An old friend built it and was selling them, so I got a few for gifts, but had to have one for myself!
So informative and practical, thank you for the information it was helpful and applied.
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for watching and leaving a comment!😁❤️
Removing the rear seats would free up a lot of space for storage, with just undoing a few bolts making it easy(ish) to put back after a trip?
Hi Peter! Thanks for your suggestion! As this is a part time car camper, taking seats in and out was more than I wanted to deal with. Just putting my gear in and then having to remove it is enough work for this lady. If I was going on an extended trip or living fulltime in my car this is definitely something i would do though. It would also mean it was no longer a 'no-build' car camper. Thanks for watching!
After house fire before Christmas lost everything home dog and car have been staying in car like your s advise get things that can plugin cigarette holder icebox heater cooler check out other car camping sites it helped me small sealed bucket for toliet portable shower hose
Hi Julia❤️You have made the best of a bad situation❤️I agree… the cigarette lighter sockets are great! I bought a little cooler that plugs in to one and it really does the trick👍 Plus the little plugs you can use in them for usb plugins. Who knew when they added these handy plugs in cars so smokers could light up that we would be using them to power our gadgets even after they stopped adding ashtrays to cars!!😁👍 Thanks for adding your tip!!
A really nice video with some good ideas. The wind chimes in the background was a pleasant surprise. Our Dad loved wind chimes ☮️
Thank you so much! I have wind chimes all around the deck of our house, and love the sound too. Thank you for watching and taking the time to leave a comment❤️
Why not lean the passenger back forward when you're parked?
That does work well, but not so much when I’m stealth camping. Anyone snooping will realize I’m sleeping in there with the back of the passenger seat down. I use it both ways, depending on the situation, but it’s really nice that it fold down flat! Thanks for watching!
Awesome set up!! Definitely some great tips!!
Thanks so much! I appreciate you leaving a comment!
Just found your channel - thanks for all the car camping tips! I had to chuckle at the TV tray because I considered one also - since they were sooo common a few decades ago 🙂
Welcome aboard! Thanks for the comment. TV trays work great! I found a set of 4 wooden ones at the 2nd hand store recently and couldn't resist getting them. I put 2 in our travel trailer and 2 in Honey, my RV. So handy really. Take care!!
What are the dimensions of your mattress? Thickness?
This mattress is about 6 inches thick and is probably the same dimensions as a cot mattress. 30 x 75 inches. It came out of our stolen trailer (it wasn’t in the trailer when it was stolen) and was the mattress for the top bunk in the bunkhouse slide. Hope this answers your question and thanks for watching!
Nice & clutter free. I had a similar set up. Love love love the headrest hooks. Genius! Subscribed!!!! I would love your support as well. Hope to see you in my comments soon!!! 💘
Thank you! Those hooks have been so helpful, both as a car camper and just as my everyday drive! I'm ordering another set for my little motorhome, 'Honey', so I can hang things behind the seats. Take care and thanks for subbing!
I went straight to Amazon via your link. I'm going to get them in RED! Thanks again.
@@SilverRose1937Thar’s great!! Thanks!
I would get a non slip pad to put on the Rubbermaid stool to help hold the water jugs in place. I would also bungee the jugs to the stool.
You might want to consider getting an awning for the back of your van, it would be shelter from the rain while you're cooking or just sitting.
I would get construction grade garbage bags and use them to line the foot well to protect it from accidents and spilled litter.
Don't forget to pack: duct tape, rope, different sizes of zip ties, a folding shovel (in case you need to bury any bodies), toilet paper and work gloves. You may never need any of it, but you will regret not having them if you do. I have a small toolkit for when my family goes on vacations in the car. Heck, I have a travel kitchen packed and ready to go.
A collapsing dish tub is handy. And magnetic hooks or command hooks.
Get a USB fan you can charge on the car charger. Also, get a dual charger that fits in the car charging port so you can charge 2 devices at once. And you should never travel without a power bank. I have 2 Anker power banks as well as a Jackery. And don't forget the charging cables.
On the whole, you've put a lot of good thinking into your setup. I expect you'll have a lot of fun camping.
Thank you so much, Jane, for sharing your tips! Most of the items you've suggested are already part of my gear. But maybe I need a bigger shovel if I may need to bury a body?? lol! I also believe in being prepared for any situation. Thanks again!
@@HoneyandMe just stay safe.
Thank you so much!
long live my 2009 vibe i bought at auction for $3000
Wow! Great buy! We had a 2009 Vibe as well. Sold it to my son in law after he asked. Kept it in the family👍 Thanks for watching!
. Wish I had seen this before I cut my mattress around the wheel well.
My cut out mattress has worked out very well for me. It just needed a little additional padding for my hip. Is yours not fitting well?
I think you are the coolest lady in Canada 🇨🇦 💪🏻😇✌🏻🫡
lol! Thank you!!! Considering the temperatures we’ve been having here the last few days you might be right! Brr!🥶Thanks so much for watching and leaving such a ‘cool’ comment😊❤
Very nice setup Sue. Good job testing out the bed before you go on a trip. I love my thermarest air pad too.
Hey Jonnie! Thanks! I figured if I couldn't sleep comfortably, it was gonna be a short trip! lol!
I have one in my car but it's not wood it's metal so it's lighter
Hi Georgina! Do you mean the tv table? I haven't actually seen any metal ones in the shops. They seem to be a rare find these days.I have lots of fond memories around these tables from being a kid. It was a huge treat when my mom and dad went out for the evening and we had a babysitter. We got to have a TV dinner in front of the TV on a TV table! lol! Simple things compared to today! Thanks for watching!
I'm a new subscriber. You are easy to listen to, you talk loud enough, and I love the subject. I always like to hear all the dimensions of things so I can compare. What kind of car is it? Thanks from Central Oklahoma
Welcome to the channel and thanks so much for subscribing!😁❤️My car is a 2004 Toyota Matrix. It works really well for me ( and my dog and cat) as a car camper. Cheap on gas too! Have you or do you plan to try out car camping? Thanks for watching!❤️
I'd be concerned about the safety of a cooler that I'd had for "years and years" and perhaps upgrade to a new one.
Hi Gina! Thank you for your concern. The cooler is still in excellent shape so I am not worried about it's safety. It is just an insulated box after all. But, I did upgrade to a 12-volt cooler recently. I haven't tried it out yet, but I'm hoping it will work well in the car camper.
Get portable power bank and even solar power helps
I have 2 power banks. One I’m about to do a review on for the company. They really are a life saver. We use them for our phones, laptops, flashlights, kindles, my flat iron and hair dryer, and even my vacuum! So handy🥰 I want to get a portable folding solar panel eventually. I have solar on my little Toyota Motorhome as well as our travel trailer, which is great, but the car needs something moveable.
Put one of those slip-resistant shelve liners for the stool. You can get them at most $ stores.
Hi Tracey! That is a great suggestion! Thanks so much for sharing your idea. And-thanks for watching!-Sue
The second clip you used on sheet has been around since garter belts.
It’s true!! They work quite well on both! I’ve used these on flat sheets to make them fitted in our guest cabin too. Harder to find now though. Thanks for watching, Theresa!❤️
Great my friend! Its amazing! Stay in touch :)❤️
Thank you! Take care!
Susan, your car camper is really taking shape. Looks like your going to be comfortable while traveling on the road. Have a great day
Thanks for being here! I'm really happy with how things are fitting into the car, and a little surprised! lol! Hope you have a great day too!
I use my electric knife it cuts like butter to cut the foam.
Yes!! I’ve tried that too, but sometime over the years and several house moves mine was lost or sold or??? I searched high and low for it before cutting the foamie and still haven’t found it😆 But it does a great job if you have one! Thanks for watching!❤️
What type of water jugs are those?? I want one
I found these ones at Walmart. You can find them on Amazon too, but Walmart was much cheaper!
the stool cab fit over stuff like a cooler?
Hi Jeff! It’s pretty low to fit over a cooler, but I do have a little storage container that slides under it. No wasted space! Thanks for watching and Merry Christmas!
They have sheets for cots...😁
Hi Donna! Yes! I had another comment on cot sized sheets. I’ve never noticed them in stores, so will have to check Amazon. Thanks for the tip!
Man so much room!! Its surprising how we can make it work! Love it💚🙌🤗
Hi Tracey! It’s surprising how much room is in it! I look at it from outside and it doesn’t look like there’s room to lie down! Take care, my friend!❤️
Can use air mattress to put under
That’s a great tip, Julia👍 I can’t sleep on an air mattress alone as I always feel cold. I’m not sure if it’s all in my head, but I freeze!🥶lol! But with the foam on top!!! That would probably make all the difference! Thanks for sharing your tip!😁
Heavy stuff should be stored in the lowest position. Those bungees aren't going to hold 40 pounds of water in place.
So far they’ve done a splendid job!
Great. God bless you.
@@RockStudioLive You too!
Can you Wild Camp in Canada?
Oh definitely. Like in the US, we have land that is owned by the public, but it’s called Crown Land. Referring to the monarchy. If you want to camp off the beaten track there are plenty of back roads, usually built by logging companies, that you can venture down and find spots to camp.In BC, where I live, we also have campsites set up that you can camp at for free, usually no services, and sometimes hard to find. Our provincial parks with campgrounds are very beautiful too. They usually have lots of big trees for privacy, fire pits, bathrooms, a few have showers and are about $30/night Cdn. Camping is big in Canada!
Matrix is very nice but so compact. Why not use something abit bigger like minivan or suv
Hi and thank you for watching. I don’t own an SUV or Minivan. If I was buying a vehicle primarily to use as a ‘car-camper’ then I would definitely be looking at a minivan. But, that was not the reason for owning a Matrix. So, yes, it is compact, excellent on fuel, reliable and easy to drive, park and remain inconspicuous. It’s all about using what you have and not going all out to buy a new vehicle on the chance you are going to love car camping. There are many car- campers who use sedan style cars to camp in. It’s amazing what people come up with that allows them to travel, be safe and comfortable and not lay out all the money required to finance a new vehicle in order to do so.
@@HoneyandMe funny I've been looking to get AWD Matrix XR as daily car for those reasons. 😁. I have been camping in my Honda Element and Toyota Sequoia for a while now. Love the outdoors
@@vkhiev My Matrix is a very well kept and maintained 2004. Having just driven it loaded to the max with supplies for our cabin for 2 days, with my 3rd and final day of driving today, and having travelled 1050 km in those 2 days and only filled my gas tank 2 times, I can’t say enough positive things about this car! So impressed!
Hook are good for any uses
I agree! You can always hang things up and find them easier in a hook! Thx for watching!👍
I'm with you. The coffee cream is the most important reason to have a cooler, haha!
Most definitely!! Why else would you have a cooler?! 😆We should camp together! We’ll always have cream for our coffee!❤️
U need a COT sheet...
Yes! A cot sheet would probably do the trick! Thanks for the tip, Donna!
Looks wonderful!
Oh hey!! One of my favourite TH-camrs! Thank you so much for stopping by, Carolyn! Give Parker a pat from me!-Sue
I’ve got an ‘04 Vibe that I use for camping. I found a cooler that fills the gap behind the passenger seat and supports my mattress; I laughed out loud when I saw you had done the same! I’ve even cooked on the passenger seat table during a blustery cold night. Not recommending it, but it worked. I only wish I had your manual windows. Would be much better for frequent adjustments when camping. Enjoy
You know what they say! Great minds think alike!! I used to own an 2009 Vibe! It was such a nice car, but once my hubby retired we didn’t need the extra car, so our son in law bought it from us.Then, as fate would have it, they moved to PEI and sold it right before my Yaris got vandalized and written off! Just missed getting it back! Argh! But, managed to get the Matrix which I love too. ❤️
Thanks so much for watching and happy car camping!~ Sue
I am looking to purchase a pre owned mini van for my 60th birthday in 3 years so when I retire two years later I can travel across country and camp and explore what the US has to offer (do plan on traveling into Canada 🇨🇦). But this video has given me a few good ideas for that…and to do in my SUV until I get my van. Thanks for sharing
That sounds like a great plan! And yes, try it out in your SUV! You may even find it's enough! I'm enjoying my car, but will probably eventually be trading it in on an SUV as I do a lot of winter driving in the north on snowy icy roads, and having a 4x4 or AWD is preferable. But until then, the car works great! I'm so glad you found some useful info in the video and thanks so much for watching!
Rubber shelf liner would be good for a y surfaces ur water nugs touch and maybe a collapsable stool...😁...ENJOY...!!!
That’s a great suggestion for the water jugs! I do have a couple collapsible camp chairs that break down very small that I’ve added to the car camper. They tuck in nicely under the bed where the spare tire goes. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
I agree with you 100% I bought my second matrix yesterday and I love every bit of it! 💝 the first one was in 2007 and I crashed that one and now I have another one! The scion xB is another great camper car with excellent gas mileage and even more space than the matrix surprisingly spacious
Congrats on your 2nd Matrix!! They really are great cars❤️I’ll have to do a search on the scion xb. Sounds interesting! Enjoy your Matrix and thanks for watching!😁
I camp in my old estate car.. but with my large sheep dog. Like you I leave my bed down one side. The dogs bed is behind the passenger seat the other side but because she has to be able to get in and out of the back during the day, the rest of that side is left free. She's too old to jump in and out the height of the side door.. so I have a cover I put over my bed and all the necessities go there.. a large plastic box with all the cooking stuff etc in it, plus my cooler, and bag with clothes and other personal stuff held with bungy cords on top of the bed. At night they get moved to the floor space left below the dogs bed and in the well of the passenger seat. Against that free side behind the dogs bed strapped to the side wall is a fold up table like yours, two chairs, hiking sticks, and a tarp plus spiked poles. I always cook at the back of the car when stopped and the tarp attached to the roof rack bars and passed over the open rear door can form any shape of windbreaker or tent like structure at the rear of the car in poor weather. I also carry a popup shower tent ..one of those that when packed is just a flat circular shape, easy to pack. In my large plastic box I have two popup basins, one large, one small. And I also bring a couple of dry bags (meant for sail boats) they go flat too. If I want to wash a few dishes or clothes, or myself in the shower tent (using the popup tent, a basin and jug) I heat water in the dry bags in the sun on the roof of the car.. The popup tent I have is also big enough to sit in with the table and is totally waterproof. Double purpose! I also recently got a Bluetti Eb70 mainly just for charging batteries for lights torches and phone etc.. a camping gaz stove does the cooking and a couple of large flasks keep food or drinks hot.
I love car camping!
And finally the toilet! Very simple. A couple of large plastic freezer boxes with tight lids under my drivers seat. A puppy training pad on the seat in case of any drips. A plastic bag put in the box first if poo not wee! That can then be removed and sealed leaving a clean container. Having two boxes for toilet needs is a safety net if one can't get to go elsewhere for a long time!
I bought my dog a cool mat to lie on on hot days but she won't go near it. Will only lie under her big umbrella. But what I use it for now, because it really does stay cold in hot weather, is over my cool box. Covers the top and two sides. As the dog is on a raw food diet I make sure that her frozen meat stays frozen til needed that way. Oh and I strung up a piece of mesh across the inside of the roof of the car. It's handy in bed for putting torch, phone, book etc in at night or anything I want within reach!
Thank you so much for sharing all of your great ideas!! It really is a fun thing to figure out and try new variations. Plus, bringing our fur babes with us adds a whole other dimension.I wish you and your fur pal and wonderful car camping summer! -Sue
Good job and in a very good budget
Thank you, Kay!
Wow! This Girl pays attention to every details. She's very smart.. Thank YOU.
Thank you for your kind words! And for watching my video! Have a great day!
Crib sheet
Crib sheets would work great if they were longer. But, I could sew 2 together! Thanks for the suggestion!👍
I am SO excited I found this! I also have a Toyota Matrix and I’ve been wondering if I could car camp in it and was searching to see if anyone had already. This was so informative. Thanks so much!
Glad I could help! I love this car and can't wait to get out for more adventures! Best of luck with your car camping adventure! Thanks for watching!
Nice setup. I saw one TH-cam where a lady just reversed the drawer on her plastic drawer unit and had it open to the outside. She put things in it that she wouldn't need when she was stealth camping. I don't know if this would work for you or not. Happy trails!
We’ll, now I have to go and see if this is doable!!😁Its a brilliant idea if it will work! I removed the bottom drawer on mine so I can store my butane stove in that space which has worked great for accessing it from outside the car. If I can turn a drawer around too, that would be perfect for my cooking equipment! Thanks for the tip!!😟❤️
Such fun!!! I have a kid sized cot w/a pad on top. This way I have clothing totes under for storage. I also have a screen room/tent type piece I use where the hatch opens. This gives me a place to stand up to change clothes & to have a small portapot. In rain I can also set up my cooking stuff. Blessings & be safe out there.❤
Sounds like you have a great setup! It is fun getting our car camping haven all put together so we can travel cheaply and comfortably! Happy camping season!!😁
Great video! Great ideas. I see so many videos of folks building a bed and storage structure in their vehicles, which I would not want to do.
Thanks so much! I'm with you. I didn't want to have to dismantle a structure every time I needed my car to be 'a car'. Plus, being a car and not an SUV or van, there is not enough headroom to have a raised bed platform. I'd be bashing my head all the time on the roof! lol! This works great for my needs. I'm glad you stopped by and left such a great comment!
Well thought out solutions, good work!
Thank you, Richard! It has gone together quite well!
Love your set up. I am adjusting mine gradually to see what works. Just got a bigger vehicle which is still a car. Loved the car camping done so far. Need to make my bed more comfy.
Thank you!❤️ it’s fun playing with the setup. Kind of like when you were a kid building forts!😁The bed is definitely the most important element. Take care and happy car camping!
Quite annoying with the background music playing while your talking.
Sorry it bothered you. I hope it was still useful.
I pull the one sheet corner tight against the mattress and pull tight from that point. Less floppy stuff underneath.
Great! I may alter a fitted sheet to fit this better. But, I’ve since started using old couch cushion for my bed, which are really comfortable. Did you see that video?
Sstool with the rubber tread and adding rubber treading to bottom of water jugs would have stabilized better along with bungees.
Hi again! That is a good idea! I didn't find the water jugs with just the bungees to move around while traveling, but I can see where adding a non-slip bottom to them would definitely add to their stability. Thanks for the suggestion!
Thanks for sharing your knowledge. I am in the beginning stages of trying to figure out my system
Oh WOW!! Thank you, Melissa! That's so nice of you! I'm excited for you! I equate car camping to fort building from when I was a kid! It's building your own little fort inside your grown up vehicle! I wish you much success and many happy adventures!-Sue
Wow your 2004 is nicer than my 2010 they took all the perks away like the table , extra storage and the lift up back window
I can’t claim responsibility for it’s immaculate condition😁The previous, and only other owner, kept it in excellent shape👍We are very blessed to have been gifted this car when my poor little Yaris was vandalized. That’s sad, and also weird, that Toyota would have done away with these handy additions🙁 I use the table and the window all the time! Thanks for watching and leaving your comment.
Put a foam shelving mat underneath to stop sliding.
Oh! That is brilliant!! Thank you, martna1!!
@@HoneyandMe You are welcome. I've seen Other TH-camrs do it. I live in a small house but enjoy these videos. I am 70, just me and my doggy.
@@martna1 Give your doggy a pat from me!
@@HoneyandMe I will.
@@martna1 😄
Love it! Best car camper set up l've seen.
Nice set up! Maybe flip the water stool around to where you can slide a container under the stool for more supplies storage?
Thank you! That is definitely something I can do! Thanks!❤️
Definitivamente eres genial, amo lo practica que eres❤❤❤❤❤❤gracias ya estoy aprendiendo mucho
Thanks😁I’m glad this has been helpful! ❤️
I was so happy to watch your video as it matched what I had in mind for my car set up
I’m so glad! Car camping is a lot of fun and gives you so much freedom for where to stay👍I hope you’ll enjoy it as much as I do! Take care and thanks so much for watching!❤️
Great set up!
Thanks! There's always room for improvement, but this seems to work pretty good for me!
I had a matrix I sold it and now I miss her. I could of done this. very nice built.
I know how you feel. I had a Yaris prior to the Matrix. Best car ever! But, some jerks vandalized it and the insurance company wrote it off. I was very sad to lose that car. But, I do love my matrix! Thanks for watching!
you might want to make your fire extinguisher to a more accessable area
Great thought! I am actually going to add a 2nd one to keep up front. You just never know. Thanks for the suggestion!
You have a good workable plan. It and you will both adapt. 👍
I think so too, Greg! If you don't bend, you break! Take care!-Sue
You've done quite a bit! Do you know what you're going to take to cook with and cook on? What about a toilet??
Hi Deb! You're the 3rd person with a potti question! lol! It's obviously an important thing to be prepared for, especially as a female. I do have a solution though and will be sharing it in a video soon. Cooking too! Thanks for watching!
LOLOLOL...It's a very important question, I see.
@@DebsWay Seems to be the case!😆When you gotta go, you gotta go!
Nice job on this my friend💙😻😎
Thank you, Gina! I'm having so much fun setting this little camper up!
Hey Big Sis! I have the exact same tv table. I was thinking that the TV table could go under your mattress. Keeping it at the feet end of the bed. That way it won't jiggle and bang the wheel hub. See if that works for you. Great video by the way. Love you miss you,Heather 💜
Hey Lil' Sis! That was my first plan for the table! But, sadly, I could feel the legs through the mattress, and these old knees didn't like that too much, lol! It actually fits in behind the water and the little chest perfectly! You're going to have to convert your CRV into a car camper and we can go on a road trip! Miss you and love you too!💗
You need to watch the “A and K Adventure” videos I posted on the family chat. They go to an area near Victoria,that I had never heard of. Had beautiful beaches with amazing waterfalls and a camping site right in front of the ocean. I thought of you and Honey immediately. Check it out. 💜
PS- my CRV is too small to sleep in, Big Red is better.
@@thelilacmum Cool! So many places to go!
Your Suv camper set up looks good. How about a Jackery power source and a 12 volt electric car suv van blanket to use with sleeping bag to help stay warm in cold weather?
Hi! I do actually have a Saouki brand battery that I've used for a few years. I put it on the floor between the front seats so I can access it from the back. I'd love to get a 12 volt blanket! i've been eyeing them up for awhile! Have you tried one? Thanks for watching!
@@HoneyandMe Machine Washable Electric Car Blanket 12 Volt Heated Travel Blanket Flannel Heating Throw for Car Truck SUV Van 40x55” with Controller 3 Heating Levels. High, Medium, and low and off. No auto shut off.$56.99 on Amazon.
@@ThomasBaird11 Thanks!!
Hi🙋♀️🇨🇦❤‼️ I heard it was your Birthday a few days ago, Happy Belated Birthday‼️🥳
Thank you, Jane How’s your summer, now that it seems to have actually started?
@@HoneyandMe we are having an Epic Canada Tour!!! I heard about something called PaulaPalooza?? I think its a campout, are you going to it?
@@janebray9392 I take it your RV arrived! Sounds like you have some big plans for the summer, Jane! Yes, there is 'PaulaPalooza', but I won't be attending. I have so much stuff that needs to get done this summer both around the home place as well as in Honey and our trailer that I'm just going to be sneaking in some car camping trips in my area. I will have one final long trip as I drive north to our cabin in the car camper before hunkering down at the cabin for a few months. I hope you have an amazing summer, Jane! All the best!-Sue
*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.
Although, I just noticed your TH-cam channel, and other similar channels, displaying van living.
I just wanted to remind everyone to Aware Be of your surroundings and Alert, I just posted this anyway to help anyone who may benefit from these suggestions
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 several other travelers, 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.
Consider also the purchase of a WiFi signal booster to also boost your WiFi signal.
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 devices that can be used when boating, or camping situations.
*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.
There are some satellite SOS texting messaging, locator devices that will send messages with your phone even if there isn’t any cellular signal, or WiFi. With this device your can still text, and communicate with others in a emergency satellite transmission.
Check online, for various emergency SOS products, some are small to fit in the palm of your hand.
You can check online, and on Amazon, research what SOS 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 detectors 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.
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.....
God Be With You...
Author Advocate for Humanity,
Safety Advocate
Jason Sandifer,
Michigan
10/06/2022,
10/02/2022
10/08/2022,
10/10/2022,
10/16/2022, 10/25/2022
Thank you, Jason for this. I agree that you can never be 'too safe'. Especially as a solo traveller, male or female. Being aware of your surroundings, having an escape plan, having a way to defend yourself are all things to be considered in travelling as well as at home. You just never know. I do not live in my car or RV. I have a house. I also have a remote off grid cabin where my husband and I spend several months every year. I use many of the suggested items you mentioned in all situations. We never leave the cabin without our Garmin InReach locator. We keep fire extinguishers close at hand at all locations, including my car, as you may have noticed in this video. I am proficient with firearms and carry bear spray when I travel. I take safety seriously and hope others do too.
Once again, thank you for sharing.
Hello Susan, just wanna ask what is your mileage now? How is it going if the mileage is over 132000, I see a car like this and not sure with this high mileage. Thank you! Hope you have great time in BC.
Hi Lu Li! Hmm...I'll have to go check the mileage later for you. My car is in kilometres, so the numbers will be higher. The last time I noted it was 272K, but I have just returned from our cabin in the Yukon which is a 2k trip, so I'd estimate it to be 274k now. It still runs like a top though. We are about to put in a new starter as it is beginning to have a few issues starting. But, so far, that's the only thing we've found to be a problem. But, it is almost 19 years old, so things will need to be fixed from time to time. I'll get you the exact mileage if that will help though. The conversion to miles from km makes it about 171k miles.
@@HoneyandMe Thank you so much for answering my question, I am a new driver though. Have been gone through two accidents and two cars totaled. And I see your car video, and like your car, and find something similar, only the mileage I am worried. Thanks for your sharing! Really like you video and your ideas on the car.
@@luli151 Thanks you! Best of luck in finding a new ride!
@@HoneyandMe Hi Susan， I just got a new used car tonight, driving in the dark and rain made me super nervous. It’s not your type of car but I am glad I get it before tomorrow for work, so I got my “leg”to go to other places.
@@luli151 That’s awesome!! Congrats!😁Let the travels begin!❤️
Did I miss the "bathroom "???
I did a whole separate video on ‘the bathroom’😁Here’s the link👉th-cam.com/video/ToYHdmP8mGk/w-d-xo.html
wow
I’ll take that as a positive ‘wow’😁. Thanks!
@@HoneyandMe please do
@@darrellfort1668 😁❤️
Thanks for some great ideas!!!!!!
You’re welcome! Thank you for watching!😁
Helo you very Nike video
Thank you very much!
Where will your potty be?
Enquiring minds want to know! Lol! I do have a solution for this and will be doing a video in the near future revealing all! Take care!
We are going car camping so like great fun My friend be safe
Hi James! That's awesome! Have fun!
@@HoneyandMe You have great summer in camping
@@jms60 You too, James!