Extra Water! Ive got a 4 gal jug I am toting around. A bottles fine over night but once you need 16oz per meal for freeze dried meals, it adds up quick!
Nice easy setup, i also have camped in my outback. I like to use GoSun Flow to have running water on demand, works great for rinsing off dishes or muddy dog paws. Thanks for posting
I was so happy to see you doing this with a crate for your dog! So many people just have their dog hanging out on the bed when they drive, which is so incredibly dangerous if they got in a crash (and potentially very distracting while driving). I use a Gunner crate for my dog, but recently just got a Care2 that is crash tested and safe to use in the front passenger seat, which will be so much easier for camping in our Rav than the bulky Gunner crate in the back.
Oh those are really neat crates! Haven't seen one in person yet! I think with a much bigger dog, crating them and having the bedding in the subaru would be tough - would have to upgrade back to a van! lol. But yeah, I love my impact crate! So versatile and safe for my girl. Happy travels!
This is the exact video I've been looking for! I bought a 2017 Outback in November, and I love the idea of turning it into an adventure mobile! There's tons of videos that are amazing and informative, but not any that quite gave what I was looking for. (Until this one!) All the different platform builds are cool, but... I am quite fond of not hitting my head against stuff. Seriously excited about the inspiration from this video!!!
Sleep with what you have first and learn what you need. Grab some pillows off your bed and a blanket from the house and spend a night. Learn what works and what doesn't before spending a ton on something that isn't your style.
Fantastic vid! Yes! Thank you. Once kids are off to uni, my Havapoo & I are hittin the road in our Forester. I love your style. Comfy, practical, organized, quality, frugal. And the safety aspect is splendid. Safety is muy importante, loved that you integrate best practices. Well done!
Hi Laura. It was great to see that you had uploaded a video today. I myself am on my 4th motorhome. They are all class C's 25 ft and I notice for me that's just the perfect amount a room for a dog and myself. I tried car camping in the very beginning but I felt like I was locked inside the car all the time if I was somewhere unlike a campground. Whenever you're just out boondocking it seems like it's a magnet for the police to come by and hassle you. So I think it's a great thing that you're in a designated camping space so you are much more safe and nobody is like law enforcement going to come up to you and make you move. I really like some of the items that you showed they seem very useful. I also crate my dog when I'm driving at all times for the reasons that you brought up. Thank you for sharing your cozy home and your beautiful dog. I loved the first shot of your dog jumping in the lake very exhilarating. See you next time!
Yes to everything you mentioned. I definitely use my car at mostly campsites or rest stops, whereas the van I was more comfortable parking anywhere. Happy travels!
This just made me want to go out ASAP!!! This was an incredibly helpful video. Thank you so much! PS I enjoyed the dog joke as the most important equipment to purchase first 😂
I have a 2016 and have a very similar setup as you even the same fan. I do like the heavy duty breeze guards. I'll be getting those for security. I also have a magnetic screen for my moonrise. I have been contemplating the reflectix myself. I do like one for my rear window.
Hey Adam! I don't have too much of a bump or gap between the two. It's pretty flat and the Exped pad really flattens out any slight variation in the two. It's a pretty thick pad (maybe 3-4 inches?). Not sure if the newer subarus have more of a gap?
This is such a helpful video, thanks! I have a Ford Explorer and just bought a travel camper, but often the idea of car camping in the SUV is more appealing because of the ease of use. This video will really help me get set up!
I am always so torn between the options (van, camper, etc) but car camping is by far the easiest to just throw stuff in and go anywhere! Happy travels!
Great set up - especially keeping pets in mind. I just bought an Outback and plan to car camp using the same mega mat 10. However, I have a cat who has the longest and sharpest nails on Earth! Lol. I wonder if he’d puncture it easily. Maybe wrap the mattress up in thick blankets as a buffer? Any ideas on that front wound be helpful… also any tips on keeping the seats and interior scratch resistant? I love those guards for the windows. Thanks
I haven't found that the mattress easily punctures thankfully, but with a cat, maybe a foam topper might be more protective? They make a sleeping bag liner that I use as a mattress cover and you could zip the foam into the mattress cover. For the seats, I cover mine. Hope that helps!
@@DoggyU since I already purchased the exped, I’ll try my hand at buying a sleeping bag liner and placing the exped inside with maybe a thin blanket wrapped around it as a buffer. Much appreciated!
Perfect video, thank you. I have a Subaru Forester and am setting up and taking down a good tent is really hard on the body. Not to mention how long it takes. I’m in Australia so not sure I can get all the recommended products but hope to find equally good ones here.
Hi Alkmini! Thanks for taking the time to comment! I'm sure you can find similar products that work for you over there! I love sleeping in my car vs. a tent. It's so much safer and a lot more comfortable in most cases. Happy Travel!
I'm looking at an Outback for myself. Regarding a size upgrade the only other option I liked was to Audi Q7. They are massive inside with the seats folded flat. The only problem is cost, in the UK the Q7 options are twice the price of a Subaru but there are lots of them sold so there's a strong second hand market. I like your set up, I'm thinking of putting a standard single mattress (190cm in the UK) and keeping it simple. Great video, nice dog :) much love from the UK
Just got a RAV4 and love your tips on this video. First I’ve heard of Rumple blankets and breeze bars😃 I’m doing my maiden voyage next month in the south so I’m looking for fan suggestions. Thanks!
Hey Susan! So glad you found this helpful! I use the Ryobi fans and LOVE them. I use both the larger variety and smaller newer handheld ones. The batteries are expensive but they last forever and actually work and you can bring them in and out of the car. Can't say enough good about these fans: amzn.to/3MypDV1 Smaller one: amzn.to/3hNeJwE
I usually just lock it with the manual lock button from the inside. I didn't notice quick battery drainage, but I do know that some people get those little pouches for their keys.
how do you address the issue of the bed not really being level? also it looks like the link to the breezeguard is not showing anywhere that people have asked?
Hey Rene! So, I don't really address the not level bed thing except to park in a way that makes it as even as possible. It doesn't bother me too much. The breezeguards can be found at breezeguard.com. I also have a set for the Outback for sale right now for $170 for pickup.
@@DoggyU thank you so much for the quick response. I have a 2015 and am just getting things ready to embark on this new adventure with my 2 small dogs - 1 being blind. Ultimately I am going to get a van but for now I have my awesome Subi so figured why not get started!!! I do have another question regarding traveling alone, how do you find places to stay that feel safe for a girl and her little yappers? I am in California.
@@renerose4610 Yay! Yes! You don't need a van to do it. I will eventually probably get a minivan or similar again, something with a little more space, but you gotta work with what you have! Safety is kind of personal as far as what feels safe for you. I've stayed in truck stops and park and rides which some people would never do. If I get a bad vibe, I leave. But if safety is a concern, I would get paid camping spots to start out your trip until you're comfortable with being alone in the subie with the dogs. Dogs make things inherently safer if they are the kind that will alert when someone gets near the car. I also carry personal protection that makes me feel safe (check states for what is legal, where for tasers and similar but bear spray or wasp spray is always a good bet).
@@DoggyU great advice!!! yes my girls are definitely yappers! LOL! I think I need the mattress and the battery charger thingy and I should be ready to go for the most part. I have a couple of cot mattresses but they are not the air ones and that seems like a great space saver for sure. Thank you and have a happy day! Safe Travels!!!
@@renerose4610 I do think the exPed mats are very comfy and worth the expense for the ability to store them easily. Safe travels and have fun out there!
Super helpful video thank you so much! I have 2 Border Collies and a 2014 Outback. I've been searching for quite awhile on ideas on how to camp out of the car while we attend herding trials and clinics to save some time and money. Thank you so much!
Thanks for the video and the helpful tips! I'm researching for a lifestyle change and I know I could manage in an SUV vs. an RV, plus it would be much less expensive to plan for. I have a 15 lb dachshund named Mila & she's great, but I worry about times that I need to leave her by herself. I don't know that she would be up for a 2 or 3 hour hike with her short little legs 😂. I think I'd have to consider places that have reasonable temperatures and that would help to be able to create her with windows open like your setup has. I don't want to have to pawn her off on family when I decide to travel on long term trips. Any suggestions that would make this work better with a small dog companion?
Hey Sara! What about getting a dog backpack for those trails that are dog friendly but she may not be able to make the length of hike you're looking to do? At 15 lbs a dog backpack might be perfect. Also, you'd be surprised what a little dog can do when properly trained/conditioned! :)
how do you keep your car/sleeping area clean with a dog? mine likes to swim (she's a lab) and then when we get back to the car, she's got muddy paws and belly. I tried using mud busters but it seems impossible to get all the dirt off her completely.
I typically dry Whip off and crate her until she dries. But I've also seen this shower-style thing that might be helpful for cleaning up before you dry them off: amzn.to/46v2ltB
I have the same Subaru as you and was hoping you'd link the breeze guard, but I don't see it. I found some on Amazon but I'm not sure if they are the right ones. Can you give a link to the ones you purchased?
Hey Raegaen! They are from www.breezeguard.com. I actually sold the Subaru and have my BreezeGuards for sale for $180 if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative. I’m in CO right now or CT in a few days. Or I can ship.
Here's a video on the jackery and fridge (its a 55 and I have a video with a review of that fridge as well) and a test on how long it lasts and how i use it: th-cam.com/video/v2YFBMLGvnM/w-d-xo.html
I actually did but they all had so many miles. I ended up with a Toyota Grand Highlander and it's working out really well! A van is probably in my future again at some point though. I just love a good camper van!
They are screwed directly into the frame of the car. I had them professionally done but will likely do my own on the next set. You have to ask the company for the "permanent install" version when ordered. Hope that helps!
@@DoggyU Thanks so much! This video is exactly what I was looking for as I am getting ready to start camping adventures in my 2011 Outback but I think I need some of those blankets at home, too!
@@sighmeadows8463 The only negative is that they tend to slide off the bed if you're an "active" sleeper lol! But they literally don't collect dog hair and I love them!
You share great info but the choice of music is too hyper and loud. I find myself having to play with the sound control back and forth, lowering the sound when the music comes on and then raising the sound when you speak as the level of sound between the two is dramatically different. Please do what you can to ease up and moderate your music to the same decibel as your speaking. I miss out on what you share otherwise. I'm sure I'm not alone in this.
Do you camp in your Subaru? If so, what am I missing in my setup? Would love to hear what would make my camping experience even better!
Extra Water! Ive got a 4 gal jug I am toting around. A bottles fine over night but once you need 16oz per meal for freeze dried meals, it adds up quick!
@@MicajahMcCurry Great tip!
I am going on my first Subaru trip first weekend of June. I am so excited to go.
@@InTheMoodForBudgeting Awesome!!! Have fun!
Nice easy setup, i also have camped in my outback. I like to use GoSun Flow to have running water on demand, works great for rinsing off dishes or muddy dog paws. Thanks for posting
Finally a video that doesn't stuff a million things in the car using a bunch of wood. Using all the wooden panels just makes things cramped!
I was so happy to see you doing this with a crate for your dog! So many people just have their dog hanging out on the bed when they drive, which is so incredibly dangerous if they got in a crash (and potentially very distracting while driving). I use a Gunner crate for my dog, but recently just got a Care2 that is crash tested and safe to use in the front passenger seat, which will be so much easier for camping in our Rav than the bulky Gunner crate in the back.
Oh those are really neat crates! Haven't seen one in person yet! I think with a much bigger dog, crating them and having the bedding in the subaru would be tough - would have to upgrade back to a van! lol. But yeah, I love my impact crate! So versatile and safe for my girl. Happy travels!
Yes I camp in my Subaru outback, I love it. Thanks for the video :)
Yess! So glad you enjoyed it!
This is the exact video I've been looking for! I bought a 2017 Outback in November, and I love the idea of turning it into an adventure mobile! There's tons of videos that are amazing and informative, but not any that quite gave what I was looking for. (Until this one!) All the different platform builds are cool, but... I am quite fond of not hitting my head against stuff. Seriously excited about the inspiration from this video!!!
Yay! I'm so excited that you found this video useful! The 2017 subaru is quite the adventure-mobile when properly outfitted! :)
Sleep with what you have first and learn what you need. Grab some pillows off your bed and a blanket from the house and spend a night. Learn what works and what doesn't before spending a ton on something that isn't your style.
Fantastic vid! Yes! Thank you. Once kids are off to uni, my Havapoo & I are hittin the road in our Forester. I love your style. Comfy, practical, organized, quality, frugal. And the safety aspect is splendid. Safety is muy importante, loved that you integrate best practices. Well done!
Hi HLR! Thank you so much for your kind comment! It made my day! I wish you all the happy adventures in your Forester with your Havapoo!
Love Exped! I have bought 9 of them over the years. All for different uses and when camping with the family.
They are so comfortable!
Nice set up. I love the simplicity…and the pupper!
Thank you!
I love your enthusiasm for what you're doing!
Thank you!! I'm so grateful to truly love what I do
Great set up! Another mattress option is Luno Air Mattress. It’s customized for the Outback to fit around the wheel well.
Thank you for the tip!
Great setup. I have a 2021 Subaru Outback premium. Looking forward to some car camping soon.
That's awesome! Great cars for adventuring! Happy travels!
Thanks so much for this video! I have a dog who sheds like crazy and I wondered about bedding/SUV camping in general.
Rumpl blankets for the win for sure!
Hi Laura. It was great to see that you had uploaded a video today. I myself am on my 4th motorhome. They are all class C's 25 ft and I notice for me that's just the perfect amount a room for a dog and myself. I tried car camping in the very beginning but I felt like I was locked inside the car all the time if I was somewhere unlike a campground. Whenever you're just out boondocking it seems like it's a magnet for the police to come by and hassle you. So I think it's a great thing that you're in a designated camping space so you are much more safe and nobody is like law enforcement going to come up to you and make you move. I really like some of the items that you showed they seem very useful. I also crate my dog when I'm driving at all times for the reasons that you brought up. Thank you for sharing your cozy home and your beautiful dog. I loved the first shot of your dog jumping in the lake very exhilarating. See you next time!
Yes to everything you mentioned. I definitely use my car at mostly campsites or rest stops, whereas the van I was more comfortable parking anywhere. Happy travels!
This just made me want to go out ASAP!!! This was an incredibly helpful video. Thank you so much!
PS I enjoyed the dog joke as the most important equipment to purchase first 😂
hehe 🤣- Thanks for taking the time to comment! :)
I have a 2016 and have a very similar setup as you even the same fan. I do like the heavy duty breeze guards. I'll be getting those for security. I also have a magnetic screen for my moonrise. I have been contemplating the reflectix myself. I do like one for my rear window.
I have thought about doing a bug net for the sunroof for good weather. Did you make it yourself?
Love your dog 😂❤
Thanks James!
Beautiful dog
Thank you! She's an Australian Koolie :)
So many great tips! Thanks so much for sharing!
Thanks J. Ken! Appreciate your kind words! :)
Awesome Video! How do you deal with the gap/height difference/ bump between the trunk section and the back seats?
Hey Adam! I don't have too much of a bump or gap between the two. It's pretty flat and the Exped pad really flattens out any slight variation in the two. It's a pretty thick pad (maybe 3-4 inches?). Not sure if the newer subarus have more of a gap?
This is such a helpful video, thanks! I have a Ford Explorer and just bought a travel camper, but often the idea of car camping in the SUV is more appealing because of the ease of use. This video will really help me get set up!
I am always so torn between the options (van, camper, etc) but car camping is by far the easiest to just throw stuff in and go anywhere! Happy travels!
Great video - I also have a doggo
That sheds like crazy and wondered about the dog hair everywhere - a crate is simple genius !
I feel like a good crate just solves so many problems! lol
Ryobi fan was a nice suggestion thank you. Looks lkke you dont have a fridge? Short term camping i guess
So this trip was definitely short term camping. That being said, I do own a dometic fridge that I use when I'm doing more than a night or two :)
Great set up - especially keeping pets in mind. I just bought an Outback and plan to car camp using the same mega mat 10. However, I have a cat who has the longest and sharpest nails on Earth! Lol. I wonder if he’d puncture it easily. Maybe wrap the mattress up in thick blankets as a buffer? Any ideas on that front wound be helpful… also any tips on keeping the seats and interior scratch resistant? I love those guards for the windows. Thanks
I haven't found that the mattress easily punctures thankfully, but with a cat, maybe a foam topper might be more protective? They make a sleeping bag liner that I use as a mattress cover and you could zip the foam into the mattress cover. For the seats, I cover mine. Hope that helps!
@@DoggyU since I already purchased the exped, I’ll try my hand at buying a sleeping bag liner and placing the exped inside with maybe a thin blanket wrapped around it as a buffer. Much appreciated!
Perfect video, thank you. I have a Subaru Forester and am setting up and taking down a good tent is really hard on the body. Not to mention how long it takes. I’m in Australia so not sure I can get all the recommended products but hope to find equally good ones here.
Hi Alkmini! Thanks for taking the time to comment! I'm sure you can find similar products that work for you over there! I love sleeping in my car vs. a tent. It's so much safer and a lot more comfortable in most cases. Happy Travel!
Super helpful video!! Thank you for sharing!!
Thank you 😊
Well Done!
I'm looking at an Outback for myself. Regarding a size upgrade the only other option I liked was to Audi Q7. They are massive inside with the seats folded flat. The only problem is cost, in the UK the Q7 options are twice the price of a Subaru but there are lots of them sold so there's a strong second hand market.
I like your set up, I'm thinking of putting a standard single mattress (190cm in the UK) and keeping it simple. Great video, nice dog :) much love from the UK
Thanks so much Space Cowboy! Good luck on your decision! The used market in the US right now is non-existent due to covid!
And by that I mean that a used car is nearly the cost of new!
Just got a RAV4 and love your tips on this video. First I’ve heard of Rumple blankets and breeze bars😃
I’m doing my maiden voyage next month in the south so I’m looking for fan suggestions. Thanks!
Hey Susan! So glad you found this helpful! I use the Ryobi fans and LOVE them. I use both the larger variety and smaller newer handheld ones. The batteries are expensive but they last forever and actually work and you can bring them in and out of the car. Can't say enough good about these fans: amzn.to/3MypDV1
Smaller one: amzn.to/3hNeJwE
@@DoggyU I will check them out! Thanks!
@@susanburris53 Welcome! Happy travels!
Perfect video!
Thanks Itzel!!
Enjoyed the video and I liked the wired screw on dog metal door protectors. Was hoping you would put a link to those. ??
And a pop up dog carrier. ?
Hi Renea! The window inserts are made by Breeze Guard and the crates are made by Impact Crate (collapsible version). Hope that helps! :)
@@DoggyU Thank you. 💕
@@ReneaDooserider you're welcome!
Thanks so much!
Thanks for taking the time to comment :) Happy travels!
Do you lock your car at night? If so, how do you lock yourself in? Do you have to turn off the key fob so it doesn't drain the battery?
I usually just lock it with the manual lock button from the inside. I didn't notice quick battery drainage, but I do know that some people get those little pouches for their keys.
how do you address the issue of the bed not really being level? also it looks like the link to the breezeguard is not showing anywhere that people have asked?
Hey Rene! So, I don't really address the not level bed thing except to park in a way that makes it as even as possible. It doesn't bother me too much. The breezeguards can be found at breezeguard.com. I also have a set for the Outback for sale right now for $170 for pickup.
@@DoggyU thank you so much for the quick response. I have a 2015 and am just getting things ready to embark on this new adventure with my 2 small dogs - 1 being blind. Ultimately I am going to get a van but for now I have my awesome Subi so figured why not get started!!! I do have another question regarding traveling alone, how do you find places to stay that feel safe for a girl and her little yappers? I am in California.
@@renerose4610 Yay! Yes! You don't need a van to do it. I will eventually probably get a minivan or similar again, something with a little more space, but you gotta work with what you have!
Safety is kind of personal as far as what feels safe for you. I've stayed in truck stops and park and rides which some people would never do. If I get a bad vibe, I leave. But if safety is a concern, I would get paid camping spots to start out your trip until you're comfortable with being alone in the subie with the dogs. Dogs make things inherently safer if they are the kind that will alert when someone gets near the car. I also carry personal protection that makes me feel safe (check states for what is legal, where for tasers and similar but bear spray or wasp spray is always a good bet).
@@DoggyU great advice!!! yes my girls are definitely yappers! LOL! I think I need the mattress and the battery charger thingy and I should be ready to go for the most part. I have a couple of cot mattresses but they are not the air ones and that seems like a great space saver for sure. Thank you and have a happy day! Safe Travels!!!
@@renerose4610 I do think the exPed mats are very comfy and worth the expense for the ability to store them easily. Safe travels and have fun out there!
Super helpful video thank you so much! I have 2 Border Collies and a 2014 Outback. I've been searching for quite awhile on ideas on how to camp out of the car while we attend herding trials and clinics to save some time and money. Thank you so much!
Thanks Emily! So glad you found this helpful! Good luck on your trails this season!
Thanks for the video and the helpful tips! I'm researching for a lifestyle change and I know I could manage in an SUV vs. an RV, plus it would be much less expensive to plan for. I have a 15 lb dachshund named Mila & she's great, but I worry about times that I need to leave her by herself. I don't know that she would be up for a 2 or 3 hour hike with her short little legs 😂. I think I'd have to consider places that have reasonable temperatures and that would help to be able to create her with windows open like your setup has. I don't want to have to pawn her off on family when I decide to travel on long term trips. Any suggestions that would make this work better with a small dog companion?
Hey Sara! What about getting a dog backpack for those trails that are dog friendly but she may not be able to make the length of hike you're looking to do? At 15 lbs a dog backpack might be perfect. Also, you'd be surprised what a little dog can do when properly trained/conditioned! :)
How do you deal with the angle of the collapsed back seats in order to sleep flat in the back?
Mine wasn’t so big an angle that it mattered under my three inch mattress. But if it bothered you you could build a small platform to level it.
Can you link the breeze guards?! I need these for my windows!! People thought I was crazy when I talked about this
www.breezeguard.com/
how do you keep your car/sleeping area clean with a dog? mine likes to swim (she's a lab) and then when we get back to the car, she's got muddy paws and belly. I tried using mud busters but it seems impossible to get all the dirt off her completely.
I typically dry Whip off and crate her until she dries. But I've also seen this shower-style thing that might be helpful for cleaning up before you dry them off: amzn.to/46v2ltB
I have the same Subaru as you and was hoping you'd link the breeze guard, but I don't see it. I found some on Amazon but I'm not sure if they are the right ones. Can you give a link to the ones you purchased?
Hey Raegaen! They are from www.breezeguard.com. I actually sold the Subaru and have my BreezeGuards for sale for $180 if you’re looking for a cheaper alternative. I’m in CO right now or CT in a few days. Or I can ship.
I didn’t think the Jackery 500 could power a refrigerator. What kind do you have and are you be Continuously charging it
Here's a video on the jackery and fridge (its a 55 and I have a video with a review of that fridge as well) and a test on how long it lasts and how i use it: th-cam.com/video/v2YFBMLGvnM/w-d-xo.html
Here's the fridge review: th-cam.com/video/fHB11xWrvJY/w-d-xo.html
Look for a Honda Element. Tons of room, high ceiling
I actually did but they all had so many miles. I ended up with a Toyota Grand Highlander and it's working out really well! A van is probably in my future again at some point though. I just love a good camper van!
Where did you get the safety window bars?
The company is called Breeze Guards - they are made custom to your vehicle.
@@DoggyU thank you.
How did you have the Breezeguards attached?
They are screwed directly into the frame of the car. I had them professionally done but will likely do my own on the next set. You have to ask the company for the "permanent install" version when ordered. Hope that helps!
What size is your Jacari power
This is the one I have: amzn.to/3dYqlON
Didnt Put a link for the breeze guards
www.breezeguard.com/
What is the blanket called?
Rumpl! Found it in the comments, thanks!
Rumple :) amzn.to/3YHrs7I
That's the exact style one that I use :) Hope that helps!
@@DoggyU Thanks so much! This video is exactly what I was looking for as I am getting ready to start camping adventures in my 2011 Outback but I think I need some of those blankets at home, too!
@@sighmeadows8463 The only negative is that they tend to slide off the bed if you're an "active" sleeper lol! But they literally don't collect dog hair and I love them!
You share great info but the choice of music is too hyper and loud. I find myself having to play with the sound control back and forth, lowering the sound when the music comes on and then raising the sound when you speak as the level of sound between the two is dramatically different. Please do what you can to ease up and moderate your music to the same decibel as your speaking. I miss out on what you share otherwise. I'm sure I'm not alone in this.
Feedback noted. Feel free to watch it with the volume off and the closed captioning on, as adjustments can't be made after the video is released.