Stealth Car Camping in a Toyota Prius (Building a Bed, Staying Warm, Privacy & Security)
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 30 ม.ค. 2017
- Four years ago I started traveling cross country for work and fun. In order to save money I decided to try car camping and bought a used Toyota 4Runner. Ultimately, this wasn’t as comfortable or efficient and even though I built a comfortable bed inside the car itself just wasn’t working. After this, I purchased a used 2011 Toyota Prius and proceeded to modify it so that passengers could still ride along but I could also sleep securely and privately if I wanted. Often times I would go camping in a Walmart parking lot, on BLM land or in the driveway at a friend’s house. You can strive to earn more or learn to spend less and ultimately, I’ve done a bit of both by car camping. I’ve had to make sacrifices along the way but also learned to love minimalism, independence and the quiet of natural settings. I have made a lot of little adjustments to the car and added accessories to make it more livable and secure. The following list coincides pretty well with the video, providing links to the different products I use or think are important to consider. I hope it helps you and improves your comfort and safety (especially if you’re carrying a lot of stuff in the back like I do), the Prius worked great for me when I was meeting friends to car camp at Burning man. By running the engine for short bursts I was able to charge the hybrid battery and run ventilation and air conditioning without draining my fuel tank (it used less than one gallon per night and the tank is 10 gallons total). In many ways, the Prius is easier to deal with than a nicer RV or Sprinter Van because it can go into parking garages fit normal parking spots. If you have a gym membership to 24 Hour Fitness or another chain, you can use their restrooms and workout facilities then sleep in your car nearby. For someone like me with limited funding, I’d rather stay out of debt and sleep in my Prius than have to pay for RV spots and deal with the poor gas mileage of a nicer travel trailer or motorhome. For reference, I’m 5’9” and fit fully stretched out if the passenger seat is pushed up most of the way.
• 2011 Toyota Prius, Model III (Navigation, Leather, Sunroof, Solar Powered Air Circulation Fans): • 2010 Prius How-To: Sol...
• CURT Class 1 Trailer Hitch, 1 1/4” Size: amzn.to/2klNFIq
• Kuat NV 2.0 Bike Rack, 1 1/4” Hitch Size: amzn.to/2kOjExR
• Adopt Dogs Bumper Sticker: amzn.to/2jPs2gA
• Melissa & Doug Giant Border Collie Lifelike Stuffed Animal Dog: amzn.to/2klsdmG
• Wagan 12V Cooler / Warmer, 24 Liter Capacity: amzn.to/2klKkZY
• Husky Liners Front and Rear, Fits 12-15 Prius: amzn.to/2jPEegY
• Milliard Tri Folding Mattress with Cover and Non-Slip Bottom (75” x 25”): amzn.to/2klDgfZ
• Large Rectangular Sleeping Bag from Coleman: amzn.to/2kJguMw
• Tribe Provision Go-anywhere Adventure Blanket (Blue-Gray): amzn.to/2jPD45r
• Optional 3D Sleep Mask with Ear Plugs: amzn.to/2klOCAh
• Cosco Black Personal Folding Table 28” High: amzn.to/2kOeB0f
• Victor® DC230B High Rise Height Adjustable Laptop Stand: amzn.to/2kOg5aO
• PYLE-PRO PLPTS25 Laptop Computer Stand for DJ: amzn.to/2kOmNh9
• Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Keyboard for Business (5KV-00001): amzn.to/2kOeCl0
• ComfortElite Anti-Fatigue Mat, Compact Size 18” x 30” x 3/4”: amzn.to/2klMJDY
• Dakine Over Under Travel Bag Roller Suitcase: amzn.to/2jPRBOz
• Portable Folding Solar Panel: amzn.to/2kOyCng
• Stanley P2G7S Simple Start Lithium Battery Booster: amzn.to/2jPGXr0
• Johnson & Johnson First Aid Only All-Purpose 299-Piece Kit: amzn.to/2kOgdHw
• Emergency Solar Dynamo Hand Crank Radio, Smart Phone Charger and Flashlight: amzn.to/2jxiyFH
• Everstart 12 Foot Jumper Cables: amzn.to/2kOiceO
• Schumacher XI41B 'X-Line' 410 Watt Power Inverter with Battery Clamps and 12 Volt Male Adapter Plug: amzn.to/2jNYB0x
• Optional 12V Plug Socket with Eyelet Terminal: amzn.to/2kMsO1K
• Two-Sided Emergency Mylar Survival Blanket: amzn.to/2kb3saG
• Dash Camera Video Recorder: amzn.to/2kOpzCP
• DashMat SuedeMat Dashboard Cover Toyota Prius (Faux-Suede, Black): amzn.to/2jxjXMt
• LeatherZ 2010+ Gen3 Toyota Prius Door Armrests: www.ebay.com/itm/like/29180812...
• Smartphone Car Mount Holder, iKross Universal Car Cup Holder Mount with 3 Sockets and 2 USB charging port 2.1 Amp: amzn.to/2klEpUE
• Autvivid Steering Wheel Seat Back Tray with Cup Holder Foldable: amzn.to/2jp6lYi
• OPTP Thoracic Lumbar Back Support: amzn.to/2jp2ACh
• Habitents Prius Tent For Hatchback Car Camping: www.habitents.com/
• Nigel Marston Motorsports Toyota Prius Sun Blinds (5 Door Sun Blinds - 2009 Onwards): blinds4cars.com/acatalog/Toyot...
Music: “It’s All Happening” by Huma-Huma used with permission through Creative Commons and the TH-cam free audio library.
![[MPD직캠] 베이비몬스터 치키타 직캠 4K 'LIKE THAT' (BABYMONSTER CHIQUITA FanCam) | @MCOUNTDOWN_2024.6.13](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/h99J4vWm7Ew/mqdefault.jpg)
I guess since you are so organized, its 2nd nature to produce a video as detailed as this. I've sat through (meaning "wasted") hours of people who ramble on about "how to" while sitting on their bumper, and never show "HOW TO!" (only if you can hear them over the wind noise, or a mike 10 feet away). Add to that those who just have stuff thrown in and tucked wherever. I seriously doubt if they're for "real" since I don't see how they could find anything when needed. Thanks for showing how things go together, how you access, how you SLEEP, convenience items, and with many great tips thrown in without a lot of painful "umms" trying to think what you're going to say next. You get an A+ for organization (video and living area) and for being concise!
You are wonderful. I like you a lot due to the fact you pay attention to the details and share the information in specific and practical ways. I like your video and the way you present yourself and the content. Thanks sincerely.
Hey Yoyo, that's an awesome compliment to receive. I think I've been in your position before, impressed and appreciative of the work someone did. I was passionate about making this Prius thing work and it's great to share and feel that connection. Are you thinking about a project like this? I also do other videos, run this website all about electric bicycles: electricbikereview.com/
Court Rye w
Court Rye dr
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Amin Saraya 😩😭
That's amazing how you don't need a van at all. I also like that it reminds me of a space pod. I often lie in bed imagining I'm sleeping in a space ship so this would be a good fit. You can do a lot of things externally as you base yourself in this car such as showering in gyms and preparing the mattress and sleeping bag. That hatch body is an integral part in the success of this set up.
Thanks for sharing.
Hey James! Yeah, you're welcome. With the right approach, this car works very well for camping/living. It's inspiring to reach that freedom, good luck on your own adventures out there :)
I lived in my Yaris for four months. Great camping car for a tiny person. I'm not a tiny person.
authentic, intelligent, humorous "i don't want to get skin cancer", non judgmental "i'm not there yet", creative, on and on... you are top 10 percentile on my humanity vibe scale.
Thank you for taking the time to make this awesome video. I'm using some of your ideas and can't wait to try this out. There are a lot of similar attempts on TH-cam right now, and yours is still one of the very best for detail, word flow, lack of boring parts, and lack of camera shake. Well done!
I totally agree with Ricky's statement. You do pay attention to detail and your information really shed light on the direction I want to go. Thank you.
I've been watching a ton of these videos and almost all of the members of the 'Prius Pack' have dogs. I love yours! No feeding, no shedding just a good quiet guard dog! That's great! Thanks for posting!
Best how to video ever!! I love how you have organized everything. I have seen people with bigger space that my mind would not be able to handle all the clutter.
" The dog is cool and friendly" You are a crack up. Good ideas!! Thank you.
Ha! Glad you liked that and can use some of the ideas. Your comment made me smile :)
I have a prius V though and would you suggest just taking the back seats out for when I sleep? That is what I have seen people do for the prius V's. Cheers
I keep coming back to this video! It's the best Prius camping video out there!
I also like that you included your insights about the 4Runnerwhich is something I had been thinking about switching over to from a Dodge Journey.
Very informative and thorough tour of your home on wheels! Love the Prius. Kudos for healthy eating! Thanks for sharing. 👍🏻
I'm planning a similar set up since I live a nomadic lifestyle already. You've got one of the best set-ups I've seen. Awesome video, great information. Inspired. Subscribed!
This is great - Thanks for the Amazon links. I also bought a used Prius and impressed with its fuel efficiency and space. I was lacking the time and ingenuity to figure out exactly what accessories would fit well in it for full camperization. I think I will be buying the mattress you recommended as well as the cooler and 110v inverter. Awesome!
Thank you for sharing Court! You seem to have it figured out at such a young age. Good for you!!!!!!
That is awesome! Really appreciate you sharing so much details on your system. I'm totally fascinated and intrigued.
I've got a slightly older Prius(08) with my fiancee that we setup like this (but sleeps two). We live in Alaska and took it on a 3 day weekend road trip up to Denali National Park. We spent maybe $40 on gas and nothing on hotels or camp fees. This is basically unheard of if you visit Denali any other way. Either you're shelling out for big RV gas fees, or campsite fees, or worse--hotel/lodging prices. The Prius RV really is a great thing. I just wish it could house two people for more than a few days. But for just one person? Fantastic. I'm glad to see this theme catching on.
FYI, you can also fit 8 ft boards in your Prius fairly easily as well. It's quite a versatile vehicle.
What a great set up. Love the way you think it all out. I enjoy doing this as well. Thank you for sharing.
Back in my 20s I did this with a Pinto Runabout and then a Dodge Charger (the hatchback compact from the 80s). It's a great way for a single guy to see the country.
Thanks for all the great info about security ... and that cool headrest computer holder. I'm wishing I had a Prius now. Having access to battery power to run the comforts of home is a huge plus. As well as the gas mileage.
This is very informative. Thank you to the small details you included.
I want to thank you for your comprehensive report on what you have learned in your two years of camping out of a Toyota. It is very easy to see that you have a high standard of living as "normal" as you can under the demanding life of living out of a Prius. Your equipment list has been very helpful for myself and my wife. We recently almost accidently purchased a 2009 Generation II Prius. It turns out that this vehicle has completely turned me around regarding the concept of gas/electric science contained in the Prius. We have recently returned from living in Guanajuato, Mexico for the past eleven years to Naples, Florida. We are on a budget that requires the maximum spending of our limited and fixed income. It turns out the our Prius is a perfect fit for our needs in so many ways. I am 6'3' tall and have found that he room in the Prius is more adequate than I could have dreamed. We have a permanent residence in Naples. We are seriously considering taking camping trips with the car on two to three week vacations. You video helped me to turn the corner on the decision to try this and created an exitment on what opportunities this opens up for us regarding travel in the US. Thank you so much for taking the tme and effort to show us your very livable lifestyle in a Prius.
Awesome dude! I'm going to use this stuff in my Prius! I have the same model, 2015. You rock!
Very organized, wish I had seen this earlier in the year... a Prius is such a space saver.
Thats my setup exactly. Did 2 months out west last year. Worked out beautify
So much info in this video. You're really amazing. I have a Ford, Escape, Hybrid. I like what you said about charging up the car battery and using 110 off it. Not sure if that applies to me but I do have a 110 outlet in my car. One thing I notice is that if something like AC is running, the gasoline engine will come on soon. I guess it's a matter of timing. So many things I can use that you do. I also like to eat the way you do. Love the refrigerator and the trifold mattress. Lots of great ideas for stealth travelling. Not so sure if I have the enthusiasm, know how, and certainly not the youth that you have. lol..Enthusiasm is growing. Thanks for posting. I subbed and thumbs up. I have much to learn.
Thx for Sharing your set up ideas are transferable for my family vehicle. Happy Travels Be SAFE !!!!
for someone who sleeps in a car You Sir are a Clean Person and i applaud You for that and i wish You all the best and thanks for sharing :)
Nice Job on the Car! I also have sensitivity to cats, dogs! Staying at other peoples homes can be a serious problem. So I converted my Subaru Outback for camping / sleeping. I have some ideas for privacy in your car that you might be interested in. Go to Home Depot and pick yourself up some Bubble wrap silver insulation for the windows. You can custom cut and friction fit the insulation in most windows. It stores well (mine slips under my bed), takes very little space (cardboard thickness), blocks all light and reflects unwanted heat. I have a few curtains just incase I need some light or to see out sometimes, it also provides ventilation if needed. For the back hatch window I use some velcro to attach the insulated bubble wrap insulation to the top of the window, the bottom friction fits. For the front window I just use the wire edged reflectors that you can buy at most automotive stores. All this stuff installs in minutes and provides a lot of privacy and is lightweight. Happy trekking, scrambling! I noticed you have poles in your car for that. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.
I have been batting around ideas for a long time....this helped me make my penultimate decision. I am pulling out my seats in my( paid for runs great only has 90k miles and fits my dwarf body perfectly) 2015 Hyundai Accent and hanging up my hammock inside. Thank you young man for so many useful ideas. Happy travels to us both.
Wow, that sounds pretty cool! There's room for your hammock inside your Hyundai Accent? Happy travels and good luck :D
Thanks for this info! I have a 2015 Prius and I hate hotels! This is a great alternative for me that I never thought of. I'm also going to order those same blinds that you have.
Great informative video! I own a Subaru Crosstrek and most of your ideas can readily be adapted although not the luxury of having such convenient access to auto heating and cooling. I especially liked the Tri-fold mattress and will be purchasing one if I can locate the right dimensions for my car. Thanks and well done!
I really appreciate you. I didn't know Toyota Prius cars are more useful than another cars, it looks one bed room everything have inside. Many thanks for sharing us your experience.
I can hardly believe how you made it so comfortable and functional - everything you need and more. Thanks for all the links to suppliers. A really great video
You're welcome, thanks for the encouraging comment!
Thank you SO much for making this video and sharing all your tips! You are awesome and VERY organized. This helps me tremendously as I'm about to use my 1st gen. Chevy Volt to go camping.
This looks like an Interesting and cheap way to live. I've been researching different vehicles, kinda looking for A little more room. But every time I venture out to look at A Minivan, I'm back studying the Prius. It's A perfect car for dwelling. You can More/less have 24 hour heat or air conditioning. I wanna be A minimalist so I'll obviously be keeping It simple drinking water and eating more fruit.
Oh! You're the electric bike guy! I've been watching your excellent electric bike reviews forever. Delighted to find you have another channel!
That looks pretty comfy! Thanks for a great informative video! I have a 2017 Prius.
thank you so much for all the links!!!! i would love to see an updated video :)
Very informative. You are great to watch and listen to. Thanks for the info.
very cool. I like how organized and clean you have everything.
That's a well thought out solution set for efficient stealth camping.
Wow, waking up with a view! That actually looks pretty cozy.
you are the guy got me started 79 and makes me feel free
this whole situation makes me so happy!
Nice video! It covers a lot of info, yet moves along nicely... well edited. And, I learned that the Prius (or at least yours) has a solar panel built into the roof. Talk about stealth! Anyway, it's great to see how you maximized the use of space in the car.
Awesome! Thanks for the positive feedback Ray, yeah the solar thing is a special extra. I NEVER thought I'd end up with it and was a little disappointed that it only runs the fan, but it makes a big difference keeping the car cool and I suppose it doesn't complicate the other battery/electronics which makes repairs and service easier and more reliable :)
Thanks Ray! It was fun to make this and share because so many people shared ideas with me, I tried to keep it fun :)
What a great job. So much good info and ideas. Thank you.
New sub here, I am stunned every time I see a camper in these small cars, and I complain about running out of room in our grand caravan lol. You've done a great job! Currently converting our minivan into a camper for road trips but you are the king of stealth with this! -Stacey & Bill
Jack the guard dog is such an awesome idea in terms of security. Never would have thought of that. Thanks!!
Great video.. lots of great tips for anyone that wants to car camp.
Couple technical details about the Prius. The 12v small battery is not what starts the car. The main traction hybrid battery starts the car. A dead 12v will prevent you from starting, but only because it runs the onboard computers.
If you somehow run down the traction battery you will need a tow to a dealer to charge the high voltage battery.
LOVE THE DOG DECOY!!! OMG LAUGHING SO HARD!!! I'm so getting a fake dog.
thank you. really was hoping to hear about areas you sleep at while traveling.
sweet, would love to see more videos like this. Came from your ebike channel. I got into a wormhole of these urban boondocker youtubers thanks to you!
I didn't know what i was looking for when I stumbled apon this video but you have shown me what i have been looking for my friend. I want to combine all of this with my own ideas. I have portable heated blankets and I can make a portable solar generator to fit in my car and give everything more juice. Bring a tent if I ever want more space and boom I can live cool and free
This is awesome dude, thank for your sharing!!
Nice features like the battery running all night and the solar top for the fans
Very helpful. Always looking for ideas to try to convert my Camry into a weekend camper car. The one thing I would probably do different myself is get black blackout shades for all windows. While the screens probably do make it harder for someone to see in, I still prefer something that completely blocks out the view (in all windows). That way if you have to have a small light on, you don't draw attention either. But I do like that small cooler you have as I'm considering getting one now as it would be good for storing about 1-2 days' worth of cooled items and the draw is very low it looks like (48 watts).
Over the past year I've been looking more into the car camping thing as setting up a tent is a hassle, and you're less protected against intruders, bugs, etc and it's probably a bit quieter being in a car.
One thing I will say that i've heard when it comes to inverters and hybrids, is you have to be careful when hard wiring things into the battery. I still prefer to use inverters that run off cigarette lighters because often times there is an extra fuse/breaker between the inverter and the battery. And there may NOT be if you hardwire it directly into the battery or electrical system of the car, plus it can screw up your vehicle. Most cigarette lighter fuses will pop before you do any serious damage to your vehicle either from overload or shorts.
You have mastered the basics very well.......i believe there is another person that has their prius decked out RV style! I did not know about the built in solar power on the roof!!!!!!!!sweet!
I've got a Ford Cargo van and have started to think about doing a Prius V instead. I'm pretty excited so trying to visualize this and your video helps a lot. Thanks. Peace and love.
Awesome! Keep in mind that the larger Prius V tends to be more expensive, is discontinued, and the seats don't fold down as flat as the standard Gen 3 shown here. It's actually even better than the latest Gen 4 because of how the seats lay flat ;)
@@withlove1717 Bless you. I will keep that in mind and look for those. I suspect a lot of used cars will be coming on the market in around three or four months.
💜🦋Such a great video. Thanks for sharing your values i hope others still stick with theirs.
Planning a trip from uk to South Africa, The NM nigelmarston sun covers is my next thing I will buy for my ford galaxy!!
Thank you
Years back, I crossed the Atacama desert several times, and I installed an extra gas tank in my 4 cylinder Ford Escort; all I did was to Y the line to the new tank, and installed a shut-off valve for it. I increased the rage to a whopping 800 kilometres, allowing me to cross with more safety and freedom. Good luck and thanks for video.
Thank you for posting, awesome video !
Your smile is just so contagious!!
Great video and I really appreciate the shopping list!
I love your videos. got into your electric bike videos first. good stuff man - keep it up
I own a Toyota Accent Hatchback, I play at a few festivals here in Australia looking for tips on car camping. Your Video is the best. Thanks
great set up, tried and true. thank you
Very cool! I just bought a Prius and love it! very inspiring video,, thx bro
Sweet! Good luck if you plan to do some car camping or living. Maybe I'll see ya out there, Dave ;)
Those are some great accessories you have for your prius.
At least 1000% better than a camp- tent setup...a travelling high mpg hotel room 👍
Nice video Court. Sounds like you're a very smart dude. Good luck to you in the future.
Eating healthy while camping is a real challenge. Thanks for the tips🤙
Very cool. I am a photographer and am thinking about doing this. Was first looking at vans, but they aren’t too green or fuel efficient. So the prius seems like a great solution.
Awesome video. Thank you for sharing.
Nice presentation; great ideas! Thanks.
Great detailed video. Not sure if you’re still on here, I see it’s been 3 years. Just wanted to say thank you for putting in the time to make this :-) cheers and safe travels where ever you may be.
You’re smart guy !!! 👍👍👍
Thank you and hope you have nice life !
Thanks for the compliment. I hope that you have a nice live as well. Happy travels!
Brother, I love your voice and sincere eyes, thank you for sharing. I think I'm going to start car life too, tired of the high rent in California😢
Dont block the battery bent in the rear right side. its there to cool and return the air flow to the battery so it dont overheat.
great job.
I had a 2012 Blue Prius III with the Solar roof about ($1,200)option. Love it, and the wife love the turbo botton. Great car, too.
I now own a 2103 Ford FUsion Energi plug in.
Much better than prius but, no trunk room and it weres the tires quickly because of the weight but I like it too. been to Yellow Stone park in August 2017 and LA SF and Grand Teton, where I mostly camped in my car . Did the samething.
GREAT JOB
Thank you so much for this. It is fantastic, especially now, when many are contemplating road trips in lieu of air travel.
Hey, I'm glad it has helped you. Good luck!
@@withlove1717 , thanks again and I am so looking forward to testing this out one day soon.
You should upload regular videos and if possible vlogs . I would totally love it .
Yes, last July in my 2005! with a little padding and descent sleeping bag, not a bad space with the seats down.
Im in an Audi A4 Avant, really enjoyed your tech and systems. Your parents did well with you! Enjoy that open road fellow rubbertramp
true hippies are still enjoying their love and freedom... I might buy a prius too... I am from Europe and would love going to spain and canaric island during winter... Wishing you luck and pleasure...
You blew my mind! You are awesome.
Thank you a thousand times for this thoughtful and informative video. I will be choosing to live in a prius once my lease is up so that I am able to save money and pay off my student loans. This was very helpful in guiding me to that goal. Keep adventuring!
DID YOU?!?!?
DID YOU??!?!?!?
Lmao
Nice setup with that Prius! I love it 🚙 🏠 ❤️🤙
Love it, thanks for the post.
Thank you sir! Now i know what car to buy!
Nice ! Only thing I’d change is not putting a pillow over the fridge. It needs to breath
Yeah, or did you say somewhere in the video if you turned the fridge off when you put a.pillow on top of it? :)
Those sun blinds look really great. I looked at the website, and they have them for almost any car make and model.
I was looking into a Prius for the same thing. Thx for the video
awesome tour and set up!
Nice and neat set up love your dog
Hey, Thanks for the cool informative video!
Really enjoyed your vid. so detailed. Great!
My 2005 Matrix has similar seating and hatchback features, so you are my go to videos for ideas. I’m also 5’9”. I use campgrounds across country and really enjoy my Matrix Motel. Thanks for your great research and ideas.
what kind of campgrounds kasy99#gmail
Karen Culbertson , I use State Park campgrounds, Private campgrounds. Once I stayed two blissful nights at the TVA in Tennessee, a federal campground. When you’re traveling be sure to watch for signs that say Tent camping, that means car camping too. If you see RV Park With no mention of tent camping then you may not be allowed to sleep there in your car. Those are usually set up for RVs specifically.
Hey man that dog is the right pet to have on the road. No feeding no walking no pooping.
Someone invested some earlier childhood love into you. You are an inspiration not because of your great finds but because of your inavading drive. Here's a x
A lot of good idea. I real enjoyed your video.