You prove that keeping it simple is best. Too many folks are trying to replicate a house on the road instead of doing a paradigm shift and working with the elements and one's needs. Great video.
Sleeping in a car is certainly better thsn sleeping on the ground but i would prefer motel rooms. It is much safer to rent a motel room to stay in when traveling . Also at least travel with someone else along. This staying in a car across the country is uncomfortably dangerous to me.
Great video . Two additions that people should think about adding #1 a fire extinguisher and #2 bear spray . Especially if you're sleeping with food inside . Also good for warding off two legged critters . Safe travels .
I enjoy watching SUV RVing's channel. This is a great example of "starting where you are". There is no "need" to purchase an expensive RV or build out a cargo van or have a solar set-up. We all have bins, bags, boards & paracords lying around, If not, you can get them from friends or the thrift store. Add solar later. Just a bit of organization in your vehicle and go!!!!!! Watch out for bears and thanks for sharing :-)
Shemaj Ragin - You are exactly right! I bought an extended cargo van and intended to build it out into a stealth camper. It never happened due to time constraints with my working schedule and eventually realizing the large van was expensive on gas, expensive to maintain and difficult to find parking for. It's almost 8 years later and now I am selling the van because I bought a 2019 Kia Soul. Yes it's small, but it is sporty, compact, fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, easy to maintain, easy to find parking and I can recline the passenger seat all the way back to stretch out almost level for sleeping. With a roof cargo carrier I can bring a tent, camp table and chairs, tools, camp stove thus leaving room for my clothes and toiletries, computer, food all inside the car after folding down the back seats. And above all, it is very stealthy. I like the challenge of using small things that do a big job.
Have Van Must Travel a Kia Soul.....you will have to stay in only paved campgrounds.....as those vehicles have NO ROAD CLEARANCE whatsoever.....no thanks!
His videos are great! I slowly became a big fan the last few weeks, I’ve taken a 15.5k miles cross continent road trip in my 2000 RAV4 with the back seats removed for 6.5 feet of flat sleeping space and I was amazed to find someone doing the exact setup and things I do as Tristan is!
Great video! If you slide the front seats fwd, remove the head rests, and recline the seats all the way back, the seats will lay flat. You probably know this, but others may not. Awesome job with setting up your RAV!
When I go camping and trecking across the U.S. National Parks, I sleep in my car as well. Being a female solo traveler, I feel safer sleeping in my car, especially since I have an alarm. My set up is low maintenance as well and since I'm 5'2 110 lbs, I have plenty of comfortable sleeping space. Thank you for sharing your set up. I got some really good ideas.
Your description and comment are the thing this video lack... Sleeping in your car is OK and camping in your car is OK too, but to call your car a tiny home is such a stretch of the imagination it puts the video on a totally alternate reality from the description. ("True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House")
I'm looking to try camping and road trips when I get a 4runner and my main concern right now is to be able to sleep in it. But, I'm 6' 9", and while it's doable, I just have to figure out how to do it and make it work for ME. I am really not interested in building shelves and being more fancy like many seem to be on CZcams. I'm a pretty simplistic lifestyle type, though I do tend to be as prepared for different situations as I can be. I guess I get that from the time I was in the Boy Scouts.
I usually do the same thing. Or a bunch of bottled waters. Did that on a trip to Tennessee and there was still ice water in a relatively cheap cooler 3 and a half days later.
I like extensive comprehensive vids like this, instead of a ton of short vids i have to hunt for. Can learn a lot from an experienced camper, lots of good tips & product recommendations too
I've been looking at converted SUV videos for remote trips out west for several months now. I have a Honda CRV that I am converting and like you, I do not want to make any changes to it that cannot be undone. This video is absolutely the best one I have viewed. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and taking the time to make the video so informative and easy to watch.
Hi from Russia, I liked your toilet idea with a small chair! Will do the same with one of four I have! As I am mostly travelling off road to forest aria, I don't really need privacy tent, but the multi purpose two seconds chair transformer is a great improvment for doing this business in a likely home comfort! I think I will also make an owning tarp like yours. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Wow, I am so glad I found your video! I have thought all this while, I’d need to do the whole van conversion. However, I have a CRV, and now I see all my possibilities! I love the half width cargo boxes, the solar idea for it. I know as well, I can figure that out, too. So glad to see the “non-drill” method, as I’d want to keep the car body pristine for resale. I have 100’s of ideas whirling now, and know my CRV is all I need. Thank you so much! I’m going to go hit subscribe now! 😎
Thank you for taking the time and giving us so many ideas. I usually hesitant to buy less expensive equipment and what you have is very versatile and space saving. Happy Trails!
Great video. That is the simplest, most functional toilet setup I've seen after several hours of watching Tristan, Bob Wells, et al. I'm making my first trip next week -- very excited! I noticed that most people use wooden frames for shelves. I think that pvc pipe would be a lot lighter. You could assemble it to fit the tubs so they just drop into place. I like someone's suggestion about drawers to fit underneath.
Idk how anyone can give you a thumbs down on your vids. This is my fav vid of yours because you go in depth on your ideas and thoughts when it comes to your suv camping. And you sum it up with actual demo setup. Awesome. I have a 2014 Honda Pilot 4x4 and am shocked at how little vids are out there using this suv as a camper. I use it for 2 to 4 day weekend excursions. I’m still trying to find my perfect setup, but your vids are very informative and are helping me with ideas. Thanks!
Thanks Cris. I happily travel in an even smaller Pontiac Vibe. I've had 100 000 km of road trips so far . I have a very similar set up as yours but I use a REI air mattress. I bathe with a warm wet hand towel. I wear a rubber glove be and use a small juice bottle of water for a bidet.. Before getting into my sleeping bag I wash my feet. I do not need a shower. Whenever I eat at a fast-food joint I wish I hadn't. After cooking a good breakfast with coffee I am ready for the road. I now dream of driving the Demster highway to the Arctic Ocean. George Paget ,Vancouver BC
You've created a great video for turning a SUV into a practical living space while on the road. That was a great added bonus with you sharing the travel / navigation information too. This is the best all around video I've seen for practical long term living while on the road. Great stuff, thanks!
Didn't think I needed the cargo roof top box until I considered where I'd store my poop! 😂 Another option for the shelf inside the back, instead of building a frame I am using just the cargo cover that came with the car, it has two cross beams and I put a thin sheet of plywood on top of it for the shelf. My plan is to rig a fold-up base that I can then put the shelf on outside the car when I need a table for cooking (I often stay at rec sites that have picnic tables so it would just be needed occasionally). Double duty.
Great presentation -- for your misc storage in back-- I found underbed plastic DRAWERS worked great -- didn't have to move one tub to get to the tub underneath- I camp RAV 4 also
Thanks for taking the time to do this vid and explain everything so well! I've been considering doing this for a while and having recently bought a RAV4, and now seeing your video - it's game on! Although currently in COVID lockdown here in NZ, so can't get out yet - but lots of time for researching and planning. Thanks again and travel well!
So many great ideas that will change my life for the better. The kitty litter idea is gold, I love it! I wish I found your channel 4 years ago when I first started living in my car. Your video is full of amazing things that will make my life a lot better. I can't say thank you enough. Thank you million times and more. Subscribing and thumb up for sure.
24:46 If you think about it, your setup is kind of similar to the space station in a lot of ways. Everything is secured in place and everything has its place. It contains all of the necessities, it's modular, well organized and concise. I dig it.
Thank you for sharing, Chris! I recently started overland camping or car camping several months ago, mainly due to age (72) as long distance trekking became more difficult. I started by just throwing my backpack in the Jeep Compass but comfort was lacking. Slowly, I added comfort items with the latest being a 2 inch Teton sleeping pad that hunters use in base camp. That will replace a Coleman cot or a tent cot set up outside the Jeep. A great night of sleep makes the experience much more enjoyable. Anyway, you've given me some ideas on improving my set up. Your simple camp stool idea is ingenious. My big round toilet seat bucket takes up too much room plus I have to find a disposal spot...definitely a pain in the ass. Sorry. I improvised an awning draping a 10X10 Aqua Quest silnylon tarp over the open rear hatch door using guy lines to secure that end and tent poles and guy lines for the other end. It provides protection from the sun and rain (or snow). I can set up my kitchen and sitting area plus a portable fire pit which doubles for barbecuing. Thank you for the great tips on storage!
Thank you for this video, I liked the detail on everything and your well spoken. You have a lot of great ideas to save space. I have watched videos on van conversion and a lot of them are over the top. I've hiked some of the Appalachian Trail and have come to realize just how little one needs. Thanks Michael. P.S. I want to figure out the solar power sometime soon. I will watch more of your videos .
I have a 2013 Toyota Rav4. You have inspired me a year ago and love getting my ideas from you. I am 61 years young and will be retiring soon. Thank you.
Superb video Chris. This guy is articulate, organized and informative. Full of great information. Love his hanging table. I'm going to watch it again and make sure I've taken good notes. I'll be camping in a truck with a topper, so not quite the same but looking to stay compact and dual purpose. His advice to go camping and figure out what gear you need is excellent. Thanks!
I'm thinking of trying this when I get a 4runner. To go camping, eventually for 5 days or so, and to go on road trips/travel. And if possible, to sleep in the back. Thanks for the video. In the process of learning as much as I can.
Creative use of a small SUV! However, worried about your health! Working for a large food company, I can tell you that I recommend putting your food in a ice chest or insulated cooler, even if there's no ice. Food that's shelf stable should be stored at room temperature (65-85 degrees) and the chemicals and preservatives are not designed to handle the built-up in car temperatures. Definitely don't want this guy to get sick from eating spoiled foods.
Fantastic video! Thank you SO much for taking the time to explain everything. You have helped me out so much with tips, tricks, and ideas. Happy and safe travels to you! Cheers
Thanks for the tip on the shower house. Also I've seen those used as a toilet room. Some people buy roll up bamboo mats to put in the growing so you won't make mud in the tent. Great video. Thanks for sharing babe😁
Chris, you are such an inspiration to me, too often I have heard but not listened to the ones who lack the foresight and imagination. So happy to see you go for it my RAV & I will follow you
Nice set up. Everything you need and most of what you want. Comfort is essential. I'm downsizing from my now deceased selfbuild campervan (RIP) to a small hatchback. Im enjoying setting it up for camping.
I do at least one road trip a year to go visit friends and family, and I usually find myself car camping a couple or few days/nights, but this video has inspired me to pack up my SUV (just got a new 22 VW Taos last month) so it’s ‘ready” for me to jump in the car and take off for a few days and go exploring. Love the shelf across the back and can see that set up def working for me. Thank you so much!!!
THANKS CHRIS! I won't be as all-in with my RAV4 as yours. But, you are the only conversion that I saw for RAV4 with bed below a shelf. That is a winner for me, as I need that half shelf in rear for tall cooler and other stuff. Cheers from Baja California, Doc.
Good stuff - How about making a fold down table mounted on the inside of your tailgate mate - That a plus rear awning/tarp and your kitchen area is vastly improved.
Thank you sooo much for sharing all of your tips! Being a solo female doing roadtrips with just my dog and myself, it's definitely a challenge to be comfortable and economical at the same time. Looking forward to copying some of these ideas!
Love the set up...well thought out for sure...I was ready to hit the road in my Yukon GMC...lots of space once the seats are removed...but unfortunately my three beautiful grand daughters were met with great misfortune and wow, how my life turned around overnight...I had to satisfy the courts by moving into a four bedroom townhome as they haven't caught up yet to "tiny living"...LOL...but no regrets...we now are the proud owners of a school bus that is in for a roof raise right now...hope to see you on the road and say hello...great tour and great set up...very clever in his storage and modifying " things" ...safe travels!
Love the video thanks for sharing. All part of my research in getting my travel plans together. I'm going to take your advice and camp a few days out of my suv to get an idea what I really need for a long 3 or 4 week trip. Thank you again
WOW.. Awesome video.. I have the same blue cooler that you have.. I removed the screws from the led so I could access it from either side..Wheather you are in side or out.. That really comes in handy.. Thank you for sharing.
Chris,This was now awesome, I used to be like this. Totally minimalistic, but now retired, still interested in camping but small. No rowing. Definately no towing. Just bought my litl RAV Exactly like yours.
I'm currently building my 06 AWD Rav4! I opted to remove the back seats, may still take out the front passenger seat. Already built a full platform from 3/4" plywood and covered with outdoor carpet (no padding) and just finished back window covers/insulation of eva foam. 2021 is gonna be SO GREAT!!
Totally love that idea with using piping tied to the roof rails for the awning. I've been thinking how to best do mine and now I know thanks to you. Great video with some great advice. Dave from the UK
He has a very unique layout of his sleeping space. Most people try to build their sleeping platforms higher so they can get space underneath. He kept his headroom by building storage above his feet. That is a great idea. He has all of his systems well thought out. Great video Chris.
I'm glad you liked the video! Apart from the headroom issue like you mentioned (which is a big issue), it's just easier to build a shelf than it is an entire sleeping platform. Easier to remove from the car too, and the rear seats are still usable. Thanks for watching.
Some great ideas for sure, I enjoy backpacking, but you have a lot of great ideas that would work at the The trail head arriving the evening before heading out, I already have plenty of extra camping gear, I like the window table, think I’ll try my hand at making one, handy for sure!! Thanks for the video!!
I've been setting my Jeep Liberty up in a similar fashion for car camping lately and I see that we share much of the same philosophy and ideas. You have given me some new ideas and I thank you for that. Thanks for the video it was very informative and thorough. Great job!
Thanks Chris. My rav4 is a year older than yours so you gave me me some good ideas how to set it up without having to take seats out or do any damage to my vehicle for resale purposes.
Quite the inventive setup there! Always interesting seeing how people find solutions to tight quarters issues. :) Thanks for sharing and have a good one Chris! - Shane
Sooo helpful and love the creativity ! I have this same make and model/year and really love it and am so appreciative of where it takes me. Looking to fully set it up for summer in the next few weeks:) thanks so much for making this!
Super tour. Thanks. I bought Tristan’s book and hope the solar info has been added. I’m totally solar challenged. I subscribe to SUVRVing and have learned a ton. Down to earth, real, interesting and no bs. Super. Thanks again.
Hi Cyn. No, the book doesn't cover anything solar-related, but you're in luck! Tomorrow I'm posting a full video of how I built my little solar setup, so be sure to check that out.
Thanks for the tip about pcv pipe with screws through it with WINGNUTS!!! to secure the fly/tarp on the vehicle side!!! Brilliant idea!
You prove that keeping it simple is best. Too many folks are trying to replicate a house on the road instead of doing a paradigm shift and working with the elements and one's needs. Great video.
Sleeping in a car is certainly better thsn sleeping on the ground but i would prefer motel rooms. It is much safer to rent a motel room to stay in when traveling . Also at least travel with someone else along. This staying in a car across the country is uncomfortably dangerous to me.
"The gear is here to serve MY purpose.... not what it wants me to do" - - love it!
Great video . Two additions that people should think about adding #1 a fire extinguisher and #2 bear spray . Especially if you're sleeping with food inside . Also good for warding off two legged critters . Safe travels .
Stan Watkins Yuit il IPO io IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO IPO
@Huxley Harter why will 🐻 spray kill you? 😅
Dq
Perhaps use the same for both lol
I enjoy watching SUV RVing's channel. This is a great example of "starting where you are". There is no "need" to purchase an expensive RV or build out a cargo van or have a solar set-up. We all have bins, bags, boards & paracords lying around, If not, you can get them from friends or the thrift store. Add solar later. Just a bit of organization in your vehicle and go!!!!!! Watch out for bears and thanks for sharing :-)
Thanks Shemaj!
Shemaj Ragin - You are exactly right! I bought an extended cargo van and intended to build it out into a stealth camper. It never happened due to time constraints with my working schedule and eventually realizing the large van was expensive on gas, expensive to maintain and difficult to find parking for. It's almost 8 years later and now I am selling the van because I bought a 2019 Kia Soul. Yes it's small, but it is sporty, compact, fun to drive, gets great gas mileage, easy to maintain, easy to find parking and I can recline the passenger seat all the way back to stretch out almost level for sleeping. With a roof cargo carrier I can bring a tent, camp table and chairs, tools, camp stove thus leaving room for my clothes and toiletries, computer, food all inside the car after folding down the back seats. And above all, it is very stealthy. I like the challenge of using small things that do a big job.
Have Van Must Travel a Kia Soul.....you will have to stay in only paved campgrounds.....as those vehicles have NO ROAD CLEARANCE whatsoever.....no thanks!
@@SUVRVing I'm looking into moving in my 2007 PT Curser and you have given me ideas and hope thank you 🙏
His videos are great! I slowly became a big fan the last few weeks, I’ve taken a 15.5k miles cross continent road trip in my 2000 RAV4 with the back seats removed for 6.5 feet of flat sleeping space and I was amazed to find someone doing the exact setup and things I do as Tristan is!
Great video! If you slide the front seats fwd, remove the head rests, and recline the seats all the way back, the seats will lay flat. You probably know this, but others may not. Awesome job with setting up your RAV!
Thanks I didn't know that
They don't lay all the way flat I tried doing this camping one time and I couldn't sleep
When I go camping and trecking across the U.S. National Parks, I sleep in my car as well. Being a female solo traveler, I feel safer sleeping in my car, especially since I have an alarm. My set up is low maintenance as well and since I'm 5'2 110 lbs, I have plenty of comfortable sleeping space. Thank you for sharing your set up. I got some really good ideas.
Deanna Perez i
Your description and comment are the thing this video lack... Sleeping in your car is OK and camping in your car is OK too, but to call your car a tiny home is such a stretch of the imagination it puts the video on a totally alternate reality from the description. ("True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House")
Deanna Perez , where do you park to sleep? Does it have to be rv camping place or can u park anywhere and sleep in Colorado
I'm looking to try camping and road trips when I get a 4runner and my main concern right now is to be able to sleep in it. But, I'm 6' 9", and while it's doable, I just have to figure out how to do it and make it work for ME. I am really not interested in building shelves and being more fancy like many seem to be on CZcams. I'm a pretty simplistic lifestyle type, though I do tend to be as prepared for different situations as I can be. I guess I get that from the time I was in the Boy Scouts.
I am a single "older" traveler with a RAV4. Wondered about your "alarm". Do you mean the key fob?
Chris, this is the single most thorough SUV Camping Video I have viewed on CZcams. Fantastic Job. Thank you so much.
I have watched SUV living Vldeos for years and years and I have watched this Video 3 times.
I’m preparing for my first solo road trip with sleeping in my car and your video is the best information video I’ve seen yet. Thank you so much.
For ice...freeze water in 2 ltr soft drink bottles. They stay frozen for so long you won't believe it.
I usually do the same thing. Or a bunch of bottled waters. Did that on a trip to Tennessee and there was still ice water in a relatively cheap cooler 3 and a half days later.
Not possiable if you are living in your car.
@@pennylowe8713 It depends on where you're located.
Remember to freeze the water with the lids OFF or it can burst the bottle.
I reckon that's a great idea when you're setting off for a trip, and your ice becomes another bit of your water supply.
FYI: Bears have mastered opening car doors to see what goodies are inside. Be sure to lock your doors at night.
I like extensive comprehensive vids like this, instead of a ton of short vids i have to hunt for. Can learn a lot from an experienced camper, lots of good tips & product recommendations too
Holy crap I've been following Tristan for a long time and never saw this video. He is incredible. 😊
I've been looking at converted SUV videos for remote trips out west for several months now. I have a Honda CRV that I am converting and like you, I do not want to make any changes to it that cannot be undone. This video is absolutely the best one I have viewed. Thank you for sharing your knowledge and taking the time to make the video so informative and easy to watch.
Very detailed and organized tour of your set up. I'm really impressed with the amount of thought you've given to each feature. Very cool!
Hi from Russia, I liked your toilet idea with a small chair! Will do the same with one of four I have! As I am mostly travelling off road to forest aria, I don't really need privacy tent, but the multi purpose two seconds chair transformer is a great improvment for doing this business in a likely home comfort! I think I will also make an owning tarp like yours. Thanks for sharing your ideas!
Wow, I am so glad I found your video! I have thought all this while, I’d need to do the whole van conversion. However, I have a CRV, and now I see all my possibilities! I love the half width cargo boxes, the solar idea for it. I know as well, I can figure that out, too. So glad to see the “non-drill” method, as I’d want to keep the car body pristine for resale. I have 100’s of ideas whirling now, and know my CRV is all I need.
Thank you so much! I’m going to go hit subscribe now! 😎
Thank you for taking the time and giving us so many ideas. I usually hesitant to buy less expensive equipment and what you have is very versatile and space saving. Happy Trails!
Great video. That is the simplest, most functional toilet setup I've seen after several hours of watching Tristan, Bob Wells, et al. I'm making my first trip next week -- very excited! I noticed that most people use wooden frames for shelves. I think that pvc pipe would be a lot lighter. You could assemble it to fit the tubs so they just drop into place. I like someone's suggestion about drawers to fit underneath.
I liked the toilet idea 💡
I already had the chair 🙂
Now I'll build my own toilet 🙂
Thanks so much.
You are a very resourceful young man with some great ideas. I enjoyed this tour a great deal, thank you for sharing it!
10:30 Probably the best advice he gave, that I haven't seen anyone else giving.
Idk how anyone can give you a thumbs down on your vids. This is my fav vid of yours because you go in depth on your ideas and thoughts when it comes to your suv camping. And you sum it up with actual demo setup. Awesome. I have a 2014 Honda Pilot 4x4 and am shocked at how little vids are out there using this suv as a camper. I use it for 2 to 4 day weekend excursions. I’m still trying to find my perfect setup, but your vids are very informative and are helping me with ideas. Thanks!
SUV camping is OK, but... True Intelligent Minimalist Tiny House?
It's not a tiny home. Love his SUVRVing CZcams channel.
Great set up. Thanks for the full tour. Really well thought out!!!!!
Jane and her wacky sidekick Lola, the Boston Terrier
Thanks Cris. I happily travel in an even smaller Pontiac Vibe. I've had 100 000 km of road trips so far . I have a very similar set up as yours but I use a REI air mattress. I bathe with a warm wet hand towel. I wear a rubber glove be and use a small juice bottle of water for a bidet.. Before getting into my sleeping bag I wash my feet. I do not need a shower. Whenever I eat at a fast-food joint I wish I hadn't. After cooking a good breakfast with coffee I am ready for the road.
I now dream of driving the Demster highway to the Arctic Ocean.
George Paget ,Vancouver BC
You've created a great video for turning a SUV into a practical living space while on the road. That was a great added bonus with you sharing the travel / navigation information too. This is the best all around video I've seen for practical long term living while on the road. Great stuff, thanks!
Didn't think I needed the cargo roof top box until I considered where I'd store my poop! 😂 Another option for the shelf inside the back, instead of building a frame I am using just the cargo cover that came with the car, it has two cross beams and I put a thin sheet of plywood on top of it for the shelf. My plan is to rig a fold-up base that I can then put the shelf on outside the car when I need a table for cooking (I often stay at rec sites that have picnic tables so it would just be needed occasionally). Double duty.
Great presentation -- for your misc storage in back-- I found underbed plastic DRAWERS worked great -- didn't have to move one tub to get to the tub underneath- I camp RAV 4 also
Great suggestion, Karen. I'll have to look into that. Thanks for watching. RAV4 owners unite!
Thanks for taking the time to do this vid and explain everything so well! I've been considering doing this for a while and having recently bought a RAV4, and now seeing your video - it's game on! Although currently in COVID lockdown here in NZ, so can't get out yet - but lots of time for researching and planning. Thanks again and travel well!
So many great ideas that will change my life for the better. The kitty litter idea is gold, I love it! I wish I found your channel 4 years ago when I first started living in my car. Your video is full of amazing things that will make my life a lot better. I can't say thank you enough. Thank you million times and more. Subscribing and thumb up for sure.
24:46 If you think about it, your setup is kind of similar to the space station in a lot of ways. Everything is secured in place and everything has its place. It contains all of the necessities, it's modular, well organized and concise. I dig it.
Thank you for sharing, Chris! I recently started overland camping or car camping several months ago, mainly due to age (72) as long distance trekking became more difficult. I started by just throwing my backpack in the Jeep Compass but comfort was lacking. Slowly, I added comfort items with the latest being a 2 inch Teton sleeping pad that hunters use in base camp. That will replace a Coleman cot or a tent cot set up outside the Jeep. A great night of sleep makes the experience much more enjoyable. Anyway, you've given me some ideas on improving my set up. Your simple camp stool idea is ingenious. My big round toilet seat bucket takes up too much room plus I have to find a disposal spot...definitely a pain in the ass. Sorry. I improvised an awning draping a 10X10 Aqua Quest silnylon tarp over the open rear hatch door using guy lines to secure that end and tent poles and guy lines for the other end. It provides protection from the sun and rain (or snow).
I can set up my kitchen and sitting area plus a portable fire pit which doubles for barbecuing. Thank you for the great tips on storage!
Great resource. I have watched many times. Interesting, informative, and a great way to distract from midwest winter. 👍 Planning on getting your book.
Thanks for the video... you hit everything we need to know🙂 have a great life and CONGRATS!!!💖
Thank you for this video, I liked the detail on everything and your well spoken. You have a lot of great ideas to save space. I have watched videos on van conversion and a lot of them are over the top. I've hiked some of the Appalachian Trail and have come to realize just how little one needs. Thanks Michael.
P.S. I want to figure out the solar power sometime soon. I will watch more of your videos .
I have a 2013 Toyota Rav4. You have inspired me a year ago and love getting my ideas from you. I am 61 years young and will be retiring soon. Thank you.
Superb video Chris. This guy is articulate, organized and informative. Full of great information. Love his hanging table. I'm going to watch it again and make sure I've taken good notes. I'll be camping in a truck with a topper, so not quite the same but looking to stay compact and dual purpose. His advice to go camping and figure out what gear you need is excellent. Thanks!
Coolest guy on the planet! Thanks for the pointers! I'm looking to do this very thing. Nicely done. The whole episode! Safe travels!
LOVE what you said about gear serving you and not all the way around! Thank you for the ideas!
i like how organized you are. looks so neat.
You are full of great inexpensive ideas. I love the toilet idea....genius!
U can also spray paint the reflective with black spray paint. I have also seen others sew ribbing around the reflective with magnets sew in.
I'm thinking of trying this when I get a 4runner. To go camping, eventually for 5 days or so, and to go on road trips/travel. And if possible, to sleep in the back.
Thanks for the video. In the process of learning as much as I can.
"Tiny" is a relative term- it's about living comfortably in a space you're happy with.
Amen to that. My RAV4 is a palace compared to what long-distance backpackers carry on their backs. It works well for me, and I'm happy with it.
Great setup! Well thought through, love it.
This is the best vid I've ever seen. Thank you so much. From Australia 😁👍
Very in-depth very detailed tour ! Awesome
Creative use of a small SUV! However, worried about your health! Working for a large food company, I can tell you that I recommend putting your food in a ice chest or insulated cooler, even if there's no ice. Food that's shelf stable should be stored at room temperature (65-85 degrees) and the chemicals and preservatives are not designed to handle the built-up in car temperatures. Definitely don't want this guy to get sick from eating spoiled foods.
Fantastic video! Thank you SO much for taking the time to explain everything. You have helped me out so much with tips, tricks, and ideas. Happy and safe travels to you! Cheers
Thanks for the tip on the shower house. Also I've seen those used as a toilet room. Some people buy roll up bamboo mats to put in the growing so you won't make mud in the tent. Great video. Thanks for sharing babe😁
Chris, you are such an inspiration to me, too often I have heard but not listened to the ones who lack the foresight and imagination. So happy to see you go for it my RAV & I will follow you
Nice set up. Everything you need and most of what you want.
Comfort is essential.
I'm downsizing from my now deceased selfbuild campervan (RIP) to a small hatchback. Im enjoying setting it up for camping.
OOOOMGOSH!!!! I WAS HOPING TO SEE SOMEONE WITH A KAYAK AND CARGO CARRIER ON TOP!!!!! THANK YOU!!
I do at least one road trip a year to go visit friends and family, and I usually find myself car camping a couple or few days/nights, but this video has inspired me to pack up my SUV (just got a new 22 VW Taos last month) so it’s ‘ready” for me to jump in the car and take off for a few days and go exploring. Love the shelf across the back and can see that set up def working for me. Thank you so much!!!
THANKS CHRIS! I won't be as all-in with my RAV4 as yours. But, you are the only conversion that I saw for RAV4 with bed below a shelf. That is a winner for me, as I need that half shelf in rear for tall cooler and other stuff. Cheers from Baja California, Doc.
Good stuff - How about making a fold down table mounted on the inside of your tailgate mate - That a plus rear awning/tarp and your kitchen area is vastly improved.
Thank you sooo much for sharing all of your tips! Being a solo female doing roadtrips with just my dog and myself, it's definitely a challenge to be comfortable and economical at the same time. Looking forward to copying some of these ideas!
Thanks so much for the tour. Great ideas. Have fun !
Love the set up...well thought out for sure...I was ready to hit the road in my Yukon GMC...lots of space once the seats are removed...but unfortunately my three beautiful grand daughters were met with great misfortune and wow, how my life turned around overnight...I had to satisfy the courts by moving into a four bedroom townhome as they haven't caught up yet to "tiny living"...LOL...but no regrets...we now are the proud owners of a school bus that is in for a roof raise right now...hope to see you on the road and say hello...great tour and great set up...very clever in his storage and modifying " things" ...safe travels!
were you intending to live in a car with three children?
I believe she was intending to until she got blessed with her grandchildren.
I hope the four of you are enjoying your skoolie!
Instead of using plywood for that gap, you could take out the headrest and put it on backwards.
Thank you for stopping me from over prepping and ending up with heaps of stuff that I’ll maybe only use once or twice. Great advice! Love the toilet
5'11" on a good day. Hehe. I'm setting up a Kia Sportage. So exciting.
Light and simple sounds like a great starting plan. Great tour of your creative ideas.
Great video. I love your ideas and organization. Thank you for the tour.
Great info Chris! I recently built a platform for my 2009 Ford Escape. Ty again
Wow. Your video is so detailed and your ideas, so cleverly simple ! I also have a RAV4 2011, identical as yours but black. Merci !!!
Look at you Tristan over here on the Tiny Home channel! Nice piece on you and your set up!
Very interesting. Thanks for sharing all of your innovations. A very helpful video.
Great set up, well thought out and efficient. Love the shelf. So simple and elegant.
Love the video thanks for sharing. All part of my research in getting my travel plans together. I'm going to take your advice and camp a few days out of my suv to get an idea what I really need for a long 3 or 4 week trip. Thank you again
I watch Tristan's SUV RVing videos every week. I wish that I was that organized!
Awesome information here, thank you!!! I really like your shelf design, and appreciate you sharing your thought process. Excellent post!
I appreciate your SUV tour, yet all other SUV tours, as well Tristan.
WOW.. Awesome video.. I have the same blue cooler that you have.. I removed the screws from the led so I could access it from either side..Wheather you are in side or out.. That really comes in handy.. Thank you for sharing.
Chris,This was now awesome, I used to be like this. Totally minimalistic, but now retired, still interested in camping but small. No rowing. Definately no towing. Just bought my litl RAV Exactly like yours.
Just brilliant. Thank you for sharing.
I'm currently building my 06 AWD Rav4! I opted to remove the back seats, may still take out the front passenger seat. Already built a full platform from 3/4" plywood and covered with outdoor carpet (no padding) and just finished back window covers/insulation of eva foam. 2021 is gonna be SO GREAT!!
This type of camping really uses your creativity to make things work/ You have done a great job.
You are extremely organized sir! God bless
Many thanks for sharing. Watching from the tropical rainforest of Suriname 🇸🇷👍
I will definitely be utilizing some of your ideas! Thanks.....👍🏾
Totally love that idea with using piping tied to the roof rails for the awning. I've been thinking how to best do mine and now I know thanks to you. Great video with some great advice. Dave from the UK
Hello. I think you really have it down, you've been a big help and i appreciate you. Thank you
Very creative SUV setup... Thanks for the tips! I'm about to buy my first RAV4
I love your solution for the gap behind the seat. Great ideas, thank you.
He has a very unique layout of his sleeping space. Most people try to build their sleeping platforms higher so they can get space underneath. He kept his headroom by building storage above his feet. That is a great idea. He has all of his systems well thought out. Great video Chris.
I'm glad you liked the video! Apart from the headroom issue like you mentioned (which is a big issue), it's just easier to build a shelf than it is an entire sleeping platform. Easier to remove from the car too, and the rear seats are still usable. Thanks for watching.
Superb how to video! One of the very best. Glad I found it. Thanks very much!
Thanks. Lots of good ideas, some i may incorporate into my 4/5 month, winter mini van trips
Very organized! Thank you!
Nice gear, happy trails!
Best video I've seen on living on the road. I now have the confidence to give this a try. Been itching to travel for a very long time.
Some great ideas for sure, I enjoy backpacking, but you have a lot of great ideas that would work at the The trail head arriving the evening before heading out, I already have plenty of extra camping gear, I like the window table, think I’ll try my hand at making one, handy for sure!! Thanks for the video!!
Love the side table idea, might have to do that for mine :)
You have an awesome setup. Very well thought out. I like it. Thank you for sharing
I've been setting my Jeep Liberty up in a similar fashion for car camping lately and I see that we share much of the same philosophy and ideas. You have given me some new ideas and I thank you for that. Thanks for the video it was very informative and thorough. Great job!
Hey I'm in the research & planning stage with my Liberty! And tips or pics? I've seen videos on every suv except Libertys I think lol!
Thanks Chris. My rav4 is a year older than yours so you gave me me some good ideas how to set it up without having to take seats out or do any damage to my vehicle for resale purposes.
Quite the inventive setup there! Always interesting seeing how people find solutions to tight quarters issues. :) Thanks for sharing and have a good one Chris! - Shane
Thanks for watching bud! Keep enjoying the outdoors!
Love this. No BS. No Frills. Just living free as anything.
Sooo helpful and love the creativity ! I have this same make and model/year and really love it and am so appreciative of where it takes me. Looking to fully set it up for summer in the next few weeks:) thanks so much for making this!
Super tour. Thanks. I bought Tristan’s book and hope the solar info has been added. I’m totally solar challenged. I subscribe to SUVRVing and have learned a ton. Down to earth, real, interesting and no bs. Super. Thanks again.
Hi Cyn. No, the book doesn't cover anything solar-related, but you're in luck! Tomorrow I'm posting a full video of how I built my little solar setup, so be sure to check that out.
SUV RVing Thanks so much! Just what I need.