My guy, hang some emergency thermal blankets. I literally just used them in one of my tents last weekend when temps randomly dropped 20F and none of us packed for that. Total game changer. Kept the tent at close to 60F just from our body heat… and it got down to 31F that night.
Take just the base of an oil lamp, and put a terracotta pot upside down over it with some wooden blocks or tinfoil balls or whatever that lift it an inch or so, so that it gets air, then put a smaller terracotta pot on top of it (over the drainage hole in the bottom/now top of the pot) You'll be absolutely amazed at how much heat it throws. I've heated a whole room with these things in power outages
@@StriveSurviveWife and I are currently living in our car. Cheap dollar store windshield sunshades and blankets over the windows will also make a huge difference for blocking the cold & holding in the heat. Good luck, man, we know your struggles.
Couple of ideas for ya: 1) get some reflectix and put up on the ceiling & walls - will help reflect that heat back inside. 2) Go to a big box store and get 2 sheets of Foamular (4x8 ) - I'd get one at 1.5 inch & one at 2 Inch thick. Use t g e 2 b inch below you on trk bed. Other one to better insulate your walls & ceiling. 3) buy a thermometer that you can read remotely. Every time you open your back door to ck the outside temp, you lose all of your heat. 4) you need 3 times the insulation below you that you need above you. - So if you insulate your bed really well, you can skimp a bit on covers. 5) Lastly,try to eat or drink something warm before going to bed. Something with carbs will keep you warm while your body breaks it down
I appreciate them. 1) I did get some reflectix coincidentally 2) Did not get foam but that's a good idea 3) An indoor/outdoor thermometer would be perfect 4) I ended getting some carpet for the floor 5) Alright lol I thought you were going to roast my weight Appreciate the feedback
Nice that you don't need clearance at the back of that heater. And nice to see enough results to make it viable- 62F is pretty good;I can live with that myself. Maybe run the "Buddy heater" a few minutes to jump-start the warming then let that heater maintain the temp. You can safely use extension cords with these but it needs to be big enough. I use 12ga for 50 ft and feed that with a 10ga cord for another 50 if I have to. A 14ga might be enough for 25ft but that's pushing it. The main danger with these is overheating combustibles in front or above them- gotta be very careful about that, especially above them. The Technology Connections channel did a vid on these types of heaters and most don't do the full 1500 watts. He also explained that using Ohm's law 1500w @120V equals 12.5A. Electrical outlets are15A minimum but that's a maximum load rating and you're not supposed to pull a load of more than 80% of the rating after 15 minutes which is 12A, so there's no margin for safety here but if the outlet and house wiring are good it's probably OK. All circuits have a voltage drop related to distance from the source, and the cord sizes I use compensate for that drop. The problem is that most people don't understand all this stuff and use too small of a cord, or overload a house circuit by having more things on it than just the heater. A down-and-dirty test of cord safety is to feel it after a few minutes. If it's slightly warn you're probably OK but anything past that is a problem. Often the plug and outlet ends aren't up to snuff so feel those too- they shouldn't be any warmer than the wire in the cord. Heavy-duty cords have better plugs and outlets and are best here. My current electrical set-up doesn't let me run mine on anything but low so it gets chilly in here but it's survivable, especially under my polar fleece blanket-those things are great and you should get one. My car died again- a rod knocking this time- but I have some money this time so a fix or another vehicle will happen ASAP. And just as I thought I was doing OK again, but that seems to be my 'normal'. We're survivors though you and me, and we'll find a way through everything somehow.
Hey bud! Glad you know a good deal about electrical cause I'm not as confident! I definitely watch everything and make sure temps and all are in good margin! I'm sorry to hear about the vehicle knocking. It's always something isn't it! That's an expensive or time consuming task rebuilding a motor, and finding a decent vehicle at a decent price anymore is impossible!
I saw a video the other day, a guy bought a heated blanket to winter camp. I believe it was around 0 degrees for him, the heated blanket had like 12 settings and he had to have it turned down to setting 2 because it was too warm! The big plus is that it only pulled 100 or so watts and he was able to run it off a jackery all night. Stay warm man!
Yea I'm camping on my property in my rig ( lance camper ) and it's single digits up to 20 something deg. Nights now . I use a 0 deg. Sleeping bag with blankets on top , diesel heater in the mornings and evenings , thermals on , beenie on , hoody on , wool socks ....and I'm good . This is how I sleep in winters and I stay warm ... A sleep bag would help my tremendously . Get one that sinches up around your head with a draw string....that helps a lot !! Anyways my 2 cents on some advice for ya ....hang in there and glad the heater is helping ....👍
Hi thank you for the 2 cents appreciate your advice! Haven't owned a sleeping bag before but I have been thinking on that and a diesel heater as well! I do know thermals and I need some of those lol
@@flyfishing1776 .....Yea goose down works well ...I have two fart bags that are down filled ....never use them thou iny camper only when I'm outside in snow on a mountain in a tent ...my camper is pretty cozy and so far with heater off,all night temp hasent dropped below 40 deg. F. ....that's pretty freaking great .....lol !
Hey bud, I've been experimenting with heated camping bed liner. I'm glad to say it was successful. It definitely keeps me warm and lower wattage than these heaters. Place the heated pad underneath you inside your sleeping bag with a wool blanket on top to trap the heat. I actually get too hot sometimes. The only done size is that your sleeping space will still be cold 🥶
Bruh the algorithm has brought me here I'm not sure why but I subscribed. You should consider getting some wool blankets, if you can't afford it give your viewers an address to send you stuff you need. There's a saying "if you build it they will come" it's true!
Well I'm glad it brought you here and thanks for subscribing! I got some stuff to insulate! I know people have been asking and been very kind and supportive.. most people anyway lol. Have a good one
@@StriveSurvive Yes I saw the video where you were talking about work politics and then you bought some supplies to insulate your truck, hopefully you have a chance to do that soon.
Hey Thanks for watching! I just responded somewhere else lol. I did insulate luckily I found a garage to do it in but it was also freezing inside the garage. (Not as cold as out there)
I was given a heated vest recently it's only usb powered so not to crazy hot or long lasting but I throw that under my feet and it's portable! Next step will be a pad or blanket. Appreciate the comment!
We're living in a camper on our property it's been rough we started off in a tent but got flooded a few times and lost everything now we've moved up to a pop-up camper and hopefully soon we'll be moving up to a bigger camper just keep moving forward no matter how you move just keep moving forward thanks for the videos keeping them up
You have to weatherstrip that door and every other crack on that camper. When the sun came up you could easily see sunlight all around that door, which is exactly where all your heats going. I have a small area heater in a resin storage shed that keeps it a toasty 65 to 70 degrees. I spray foamed every crack and crevice but left the table vents open for ventilation. I work nights but spend time out there working on wood projects on my nights off and my little 800 watt space heater has been amazing.
You would be well served to change your insulation. If you add something like old quilts as curtains, all around your area would help tons. Also on your ceiling. You can secure that with some magnetic setup so it’s easy to remove when you want. I don’t know how much you’ve insulated the floor area, but especially when it’s windy, that’s a huge change. Rugs or carpets are great for this and work very well on the ceiling. Every tiny gap loses allot more heat than you think. Insulation is far more effective than adding heating. Also, a heating pad or thermal mass, if you cook cast iron or rocks even, under your sleeping area will help tremendously.
@ I see you have used styrofoam on some of your walls, that under some rugs or carpet would help tremendously. I’ve lived in some interesting situations and insulation is an absolute game changer. Also thermo mass allows you to keep your temperature while using far less energy. Look up thermos mass theory because there’s so many ways to use it to your advantage. If you can turn your heat on before you go in, it feels warmer inside to your brain for longer. I generally like to have 2-3 different heat sources in case there’s an issue with one or for extreme temperatures. Electric, propane, diesel and my favorite for boondocking is along the lines of a terracotta heater. You do have to be mindful about fires, but people have lived in trailers heated by fire for hundreds of years or more.
An electric heating pad under the blankets keeps you extremely warm. Even if the living space is cold, you'll still be warm with enough layers of blankets. I layer sheet, blanket, sheet, blanket, and it really insulates. Heating pad sold at drugstore with a lifetime warranty. Probably a lot less electricity needed.
Take a little time to seal up the air gaps around your door and such and add some non flammable insulation (lose the cardboard). I get by with a 600 watt heater in my van no issue at below freezing
So many ideas available to make improvements so it’s hard to decide what would be best for you. I’d go with some good insulation, at least an inch thick would provide enough to preserve generated heat. You’re excluding the pickup bed itself as a potential loss of heat so insulating that with foam board is also important and, it’s very cheap to acquire, you can likely get some for free by digging through the dumpster at a housing development that’s under construction. Consider using a sheet metal smoke stack or something in similar size and shape, just something that you can put any oil lamp inside so it heats up the pipe sheet metal which will connect heat into the living space without compromising the breathing air. The lamp fumes will vent up the pipe so there’s no danger of poisoning. This type of heating is dirt cheap and you can use any kind of oil. By using electricity as your primary heat source is an option that should be down the list of back up heat sources since it’s more expensive to create, store and manage. You can also consider raising the camper shell a few more inches with a few pieces of lumber by placing the lumber between the pickup bed and the camper shell, again it’ll cost next to nothing in materials, just a bit of labor to install it. In place of foam insulation, just hang some kind of thick blankets where needed. You can use those blankets that movers use since they’re easy to find used and they’re cheap. Try to have your heat source to also function as a stove when needed to save more fuel and space. By building in back up systems for what I mentioned is important, at least have one backup method on hand and 3 would be better. Ensure that the moisture inside the camper doesn’t get too high so using a small computer hard drive fan to keep the air flowing out will aid in this but only,on low speeds.
Appreciate the comment man, loads of good advice! I insulated my truck with some reflectix seemed like good stuff! I want to look into an oil burner that would be nice, plus I like making stuff like that. I do need to raise the cap desperately. Thanks again buddy have a good one
@ your welcome and thanks for taking time to share with us. I was thinking that you might want to look into making or buying a waste oil stove where you can use used motor oil to cook and heat. They’re not too hard to make and a small one wouldn’t take up much space but you’ll need to ensure it doesn’t generate too much heat. For the oil, you can get that for free from various garages or quick oil change shops. And the stoves I’ve seen people build here in YT burn clean, nearly smokeless and hot, they pull in a good amount of air so the temperature is higher than other stoves. But if it didn’t have the airflow it would create a lot of smoke and soot. Either option you decide on should be interesting to watch in your future videos. Thanks again. Kevin
I hate that folks are suffering in shelters ordinarily not housing. I am praying 🙏 for everyone and hoping for better days. I am glad and give thanks that you have your own shelter/truck/van/camper, people in their cars is heartwrenching. Many of us are a heartbeat away from homelessness, God have mercy we pray 🙏, better days ahead brothers and sisters 🙏 Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄 ❤ 💙
Hardware stores have that blue foam board insulation. Cut to fight it anywhere. Not the highest R value, but better than nothing. And it can be layered in places. And if you tape it in, you can move it around. Also, thrift stores, they sometimes have a lot of fleece blankets and throws for dirt cheap. Get 5 or 6 of those things in that bed and you’ll be snug as a bug.
I sleep up in cold Canada with the window open a little. Go to value village and buy 1970's knitted blankets and throws and sew together. Buy heavy wool blankets and 7 different layers......REMEMBER : You have a heater core in your body it just needs the insulation at night. I am always cozy in my sleep or i adjust my temperature layer. In the 1930's they didn't burn wood at night they used blanket insulation.
Canadian military sleeping bag system, with a nice wool blanket underneath 👌🏼 No heater required. But a heater is Super nice of course lol. Keep living the dream brother. 🤜🏽🤛🏽
150 dollar diesel heater on Amazon. The only real solution. I use my 2 kw heater in my Step van. Easily keeps the temp. at 70 to 75 degrees. Use only about 3 to 5 watts of power to run after the initial start up of about 110 watts for about three minutes or so. Permanent install is best. Uses approx. A little over a gallon of diesel in a 24 hours period running constantly.
you need to go to Walmart and pick up a pair of insulated cover-alls to sleep in. when i was homeless in the winter those cover-alls literally saved my life many of cold night
my vevor runs 3 days on 5 gallon jug with a fuel line mod. i heat my house with it.. its good till its like 5f ...then you need more but a truck it would heat all day long no problem and you could run it on a lower setting and make your heater run a week on 5 gallons
Gotta get some insulation on those walls, ceiling, and floor, it'll help for winter AND summer. Grab yourself a zero bag.... sleeping bag meant for subzero camping and usually has a cocoon type hood that encases your head, but doesn't strangle you, just keeps your head heat from escaping too much.... and blankets man...grab at least a few of those "furry foam core" blankets, they seem thin, but they have foam cores and are fuzzy on both sides, those are fantastic for stacking and are surprisingly warm, and then on top, a good wool blanket....hit up the Goodwill or similar places for one of those. But the more insulation you can get into that truck bed, the better you'll be during ALL seasons. Glad you have access to power, but you wouldn't be too bad without it as long as you have the insulation, the sleeping bag, those blankets.... think about long johns and some socks and even those cheapie thin fuzzy knitted gloves, just to keep some warmth in your extremities..... it's typically -20f to -60f where I am.... I don't think there's any way I'd be able to make it out in my truck without heat in my winters....in +20f, it wouldn't be "too" dreadful (but I've been there, was homeless for 5yrs, first almost 2yrs in a tent in Jersey, last bit sleeping in acquaintance's garages or similar)
I sleep in my hunting cabin with no heat until morning when I light a fire, you can get a $40 sleeping bag that will have you almost sweat once your tucked in as long as your out of the wind it can withstand temps of 0 degrees.
I’ve built a wooden box in the back of my van, thick plywood for the walls, with pallets below layered by plywood, a futon on top of it elevating me higher. I’m actually surprised I survived -40f so far. I wore a balaclava while my body was in the 0 degree sleeping bag. I didn’t make a door in the wooden box of my van but it’s blocked but sleeping bags held up by clamps. No heater but the sleeping bags and wooden box, kinda like a rectangle coffin. I’d imagine -60f would be insane but survivable. I just need to buy more 0 degree sleeping bags and pile them on top of the one I’m in.
I built and lived in a THOW northern MN -50F extremes. Suggest skirting solition to stop under draft. Also, needed larger propane tanks to keep up pace for the extreme temps. If you have a water line, you can put heat tape inside the line too if its rated for it.
-50 that's crazy think the coldest I've seen was around -30. There is a strong updraft I will need to do something about that. I have a few free propane tanks that I found on the side of the road just need the dang hose and filter
@@StriveSurviveI picked up one of the adapter hoses at my local stines to hook my buddy heater to a 5 gallon tank. Seems like it was bout 30$. If u need the part number I can grab it out the closet and give the part number
I suspect insulation is a big factor working against you. I built a campervan and went overbored with insulation. The first thing I installed was a gas heater, after that I spent time in the van with different levels of insulation. In its current state, i need about 20% of the heater that I did initially. A 1" 4'x8' R-5 foam board is $32 bucks at Home depot. It may seem silly to spend $120 of your budget on 4 of them, but it would save you an incredible amount of energy by providing heat retention, something I'm not sure you have a lot of. In my van I did spray foam everywhere with 1.5" foam board under the floor, 1/2 foam under the shiplap ceiling, and lots of sheeps wool everywhere I still want access to. Its ridiculous, but my 12v split unit AC can easily keep the van cool when its 95 degrees outside. What you are doing is awesome, if you can hack the $$ to essentially build yourself a foam box inside that topper, you will thank yourself.
It's definitely the lack of insulation. I have thin ass bubbles foil insulation from Lowe's and Amazon on my windows and I can tell it helps keep the heat out during summer unless it's extremely hot so it should insulate a bit if you install it around you and get a sleeping bag
Have you ever seen day after tomorrow. Even paper balled up and stuffed into a tight spot can count as insulation. Get it how you can and it will save your life.
@@theyreoutthere.huntinggear I'm aware that cardboard is better than nothing, I'm trying to point out that there is $250 worth of heaters in that topper if you include the buddy heater and spending half that on proper insulation is without a doubt the next best step he can take. I almost died sleeping in a car with just a buddy heater when it was -10f and it cut off in the middle of the night. I woke up in pain, unable to move my body I was so cold, he needs to properly insulate for heat retention.
You need a sub zero sleeping back and insulate/seal the back as best you can/they make sheets of insulation that would help incredibly. All the heat from your heaters is just escaping that cab, almost doing nothing. Those little heaters should heat that size space so easy to beyond hot temps. Cheap way for now would be to line the top and sides with emergency blankets. The ones that look like tin foil. They will reflect the heat back. Ive had to resort to sleeping in my car more than once. One time was for a few months during the peak of winter. Had to sleep fully clothes with snow boots gloves on top of numerous blankets. Still had to start up the car every now and then and run the heat. Difficult to do while trying to "stealth camp" but I wouldve froze without it. Hope your situation improves. Keep in mind there are ppl that would kill to have a vehicle to sleep in, youre more blessed than you may believe.
Appreciate the comment man. I did insulate recently that should help, I was having to sleep with jackets and all. Sounds like you know the struggle I really appreciate the positivity man. I am very grateful for what I have, I know there are others out there in worse spots.
You should get some of that self adhesive auto insulation and put it in the inside of the camper topper. You're losing ALOT of the heat because nothings insulated.
My sons and I use modular sleep system setup it's a three piece system. A bivy sack, summer and winter bags that snap together and placed inside the bivy sack. You will not be disappointed.
I was going to post a similar thing. The 3-piece sleeping system works very well. I have used a bag in a bag before too and works well when it's dry. I don't touch heaters until I wake up. I'll let them run for 5 minutes in an enclosed environment or a lot a pre-made fire if I'm camping.
@jamesweiser252 yeah, we have to be talking about the same thing. I had one in the military and have a milsurp one now. They are a great system to have. Never really had to use the winter one until I was training in Germany. Bag in a bag is my secondary option. Astoria got hit with an ice storm last year and I was warm. I probably should clarify, I had a mummy bag in a sleeping bag. Was solid.
I use to live in a shed. Yeah i did some cardboard insulation too. I used a 10,000 btu kerosene heater to keep me warm and great part was i can tune it way down to save fuel but was hard on the wick. Either way i didnt have to clean the wick for the 2 months i stayed. I didnt have electricity to power any space heaters. I had car batteries that id charge with my car go to work and back to the shed was enough for light and charge my phone.
@StriveSurvive it wasn't so bad not having supplied electricity honestly. I was warm and had food :). Being in a shed with no electricity for a few weeks was actually an escape from the living hell I endured for years.
I lived in my truck for 11 years a long time ago...in the winter find yourself a place if you can afford that has monthly parking and if they have lower levels it helps with a lot prevent alot of wind from getting at your truck..it also helps with some security against break ins
Appreciate the tip, it's a matter of where is more comfortable I have somewhere I can park to be closer to work and save gas but no AC outlet and it's high traffic area so there's trade offs
I bought a body pillow at walmart and put it against my cold side and it REALLY insulates WELL from the cold, esp if I have it with me in the sleeping bag!! Try this even with thrift store blankets folded 4x so they're long and put them against your side, it works a treat.
Thank you for sharing and demonstrating your bid to keep warm .....is there any way you could boil water in a pan safely and make a hot drink of tea or coffee ?? And with the left over hot water put some pebbles in and reboil pot drain off water and pour hot pebbles into a sock and tie it up to make a snuggle type thing to hug under your blanket? I have liked and subscribed to show support for your channel hugs from Scotland 🤗
Thank you so much! I haven't thought to do that with rocks actually a good idea! I know I've seen people pour the hot water in a water bottle also and do the same thing, i imagine the rocks would stay warmer longer! Appreciate the comment so much and the support! Scotland! That's awesome I'm glad my videos are getting some reach out that's exciting!
I'd recommend a method of using an electric blanket and only using the space heater when you need to, like needing to use the restroom, or getting changed into warm clothes. Coupled with a good blanket and an insulated sleeping pad, you can stay toasty while minimizing the watts per hour.
@@StriveSurvive Make sure to pick up a washable one of the size that suits your needs. It's a little different to wash, but is better than just dealing with a dirty blanket. I live on a boat in a marina that has commercial rates, so power is expensive. Just be sure of the wattage it uses before you buy. Some of the USB operated ones seem a bit under-powered.
I live full time in my Sprinter Northwest Montana I have the Olympian wave 6 Add an old old electric blanket, that I got at a second hand store. I bought a new electric blanket but it used too much wattage. I have two CO2 monitors and two fire alarms And yes I keep my propane tank in the front seat. That is where one of the CO2 monitors are is right over the top of that tank connections. I was priced out of rentals and I've lived here all my life. I use a coffee can for number one, And a small trash can with bags in it and poultry bedding pellets for number two. I have two plastic 6 gallon Jerry cans for freshwater, Grey water just gets dumped outside. I have straight talk phone service unlimited talk text...with a Motorola phone and that's how I watch UA-cam videos. Stay safe out there you all.
@@dawnmtwild5409renting is insane nowadays. When I looked into an apartment they wanted first month, last month and a security deposit on top of paying the actual first months rent.
Put a tarp over your rig. It creates an air pocket that is insulation and will keep you warmer by a few degrees and also keeps the wind out. Works for me. Good luck to man.
Get you an electric blanket.. The better you insulated the more heat, you will retaining it.. If you use an electric blanket and hunters battery charge socks, your body will stay warm.. The battery socks have a rechargeable battery…
Get yourself a chinese diesel heater! 👍 been using one in my trailer for the last four winters brilliant they are. 12volt and on the lowest setting uses 1 gallon of diesel every 36 hours keeps my trailer at about 68F anyway best of luck!👍
You need a Vent. that Can draw out that CO2 from inside. above 1,500ppm co2 can cause drowsiness and effect sleeping. but as you get closer to the 2,000pm co2 mark you can start to get headaches, fatigue, stuffiness, loss of focus.
I used my f150 as a motel during gun deer season for many years, the best thing I did was insulate the roof sides and tailgate, and cover all of that with space blankets. The space heater i had was not very big but it kept me almost sweating. It was one of the best ideas I had for gun season. We always had issues getting out of the bar and camping on the land took that right out of the equation. Can't go to the bar if the hotel is tethered to a telephone pole.
Get a chinese diesel heater, you'll pay about 100 bucks and all you need to do is run a small exhaust hole out your door. It's cheap to run and I guarantee that small space even uninsulated will get way too hot for you.
@@Streetlife1025 where I live diesel is around 3.50 a gallon, my heater will keep my shop (uninsulated 20x16) at 65 when it's 0 outside. It runs for 8 -10 hours on one gallon of diesel. In my area that is way cheaper than propane and the cost of electricity. Also propane put huge amounts of moisture in the air as it burns. Not good if you have a shop with tools or anything you don't want moisture to ruin eventually.
And i get over a week on 20 lbs tank of propane on a mr heater the one that 20 pounder tank fits in the back and a woodstove fan 17.00 a week no power 🤷♂️ ill do a video on it think your wasting money 💵 all I saying
@Streetlife1025 I guess it all depends what you are trying to heat and for what purpose. Not calling propane bad in every application. For my particular setup I found the solution I like for my tools and safety. But when it all boils down its about keeping warm and you can do that many ways. Thanks for the videos! Happy New Year.
I have the same gas heater and i refill my green cans with a big tank and i can get my big tank refilled for $20 and it last longer with refilling the big tank
We have used Reflectix in Cour d'Alene Idaho, Flathead Valley Montana, Strausberg Colorado, and Casper Wyoming in deep freeze weather and a My Buddy and been toastie warm. 1/4 inch foam insulation and "insulation tape" on all seems. Better have a good ventilation system. Wool blankets and great sleeping bag! You'll survive.
That's what I just suggested, a subzero bag, _insulation_ which is the absolute most important thing he can do as it'll help in all temperatures, then a couple of those "thin foam fuzzy" blankets AND one wool blanket (that one from a thrift store or Goodwill) and he'll be golden.... the insulation is the most important. Foil backed insulation, cut and taped up with aluminum duct/insulation tape over the ceiling, walls, and floor.... he'd probably only need the one heater as long as he doesn't have any air coming through (if so, through the bed to cap gap, some silicone or that duct tape). I lived my first 2yrs being homeless in a simple camping tent through the snow and cold and everything, zero heat except my own body heat, I had just gotten blankets and tarps and insulated my tent from above and encased it with a tarp fully to keep it dry, then inside I had a foam bedroll, and multiple blankets and would just encase myself.... oddly enough, I'd say there were days I missed, but there's zero chance I'd survive a day outside where I am now, in northern ND.... it'll reach -50°f here with ridiculous wind, plus there's no damn trees or woods to hide out in for miles on end, and even if I still had my van, if it wasn't running, and if it didn't have a ton of insulation and an auxiliary heat source, I'd freeze to death.... it's entirely too cold out here
You've got the solution to your heating bolted to your door! Instead of using the little 1 lb green cylinders of propane which only last for about 4 hours (which I have come to recently find out!), get an adapter hose and use a 20 lb cylinder of propane like what you use on a barbecue grill!! I have 100 square feet and the same heater and 4.5 gallons of propane will last me about 7 days. I run the heat anywhere from 6 to 8 hours a day. You can refill the tank at any hardware store and I refilled mine Sunday and spent about $17. The small space you are heating, a tank would last you a month! Anyways, it's something to think about and would be a better use instead of all of those electric heaters.
My heater buddy stopped working after using a 20 lb tank with no filter. Long story short I need another hose and filter foe that! Thanks for the feedback
You should look at military surplus for the modular sleep system, it's a lightweight bag and a cold weather bag and you can use em together. 3rd part of the system is a goretex bivy. The system will get you from mild temps to really cold
You can get a hose for that buddy heater to run it on the 20lb tank. Hose is fairly cheap and if lucky you can find an empty propane bottle to use. I found one at Lowes sitting beside the cage thing. Also if tight on funds use cardboard for insulation. That is how I have dome it in the past. Then as I got money I bought carpet mats to put on top of the cardboard floor lining. Cardboard on the walls also. Now I am using a diesal heater and the propane heater. Depends on which I have fuel for at the time as to what I use.
i used an inverter with a cooling fan built in , I would just leave it plugged into the car battery and let it sit there non plugged into to any electrical device and it would stay warm and turn the fan on and off from time to time keeping the cabin in the car warm throughout the night.
I've insulated all of my windows in my 97 tahoe with styrofoam. I made them custom of course to easily be removed and tossed in the front seat if I need to go anywhere.
use heated blankets for the base then use a feather and a heavy quit for the top layer to trap the heat. or put on your whaling suit go to the bar at last call and bring home the biggest girl or guy whatever you in to. case close
@@StriveSurviveI have a 35 foot camper with an 18 ft pop out. An 8kv vevor heater on low heats it when it's zero outside. It uses 2 liters every 24 hrs. Only way to go.
I have 2 400watt space heaters and a 2 stroke 900watt generator. Last night got down to 18°. I only had to use one space heater in a 4 door tracker. Tonight on the other hand, it is 5° I have both space heaters running and a heated blanket generator will run out of fuel in 5 hours at full load. last night it ran eight hours.
Def get some kinda insulation on the walls , emergency blankets stapled up if nothing else get bbq grill propane tank will last u forever would def recomend sealing up every nook and cranny felt tape on your door and get a carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm asap
Better bedding alone can get you pretty far in an enclosed space, even without heaters, so layers are your friend. Also, for heating, if you get a sleeping bag and a heating pad or electric blanket you can toss in there too, you get more heat delivered efficiently to your body rather than lost to the air and so every bit of power you're using goes a lot farther.
I would get rigid foam insulation on the bed floor first topped by a 4 x 8 sheet of material like 3/8 thick laminate .then maybe glue insulation panels like the kits for garage doors that are reflective on the sidewalls and roof
Ok so i live in Whyalla, South Australia, Australia... Ive never seen snow and ive never been in temps bellow say 4°C so it really spins me out to see the extremes and ways you guys have to go to, to stay warm. If i was to ever come across to such a cold climate, id peob freeze to death before acclimatizing to the conditions 🤣 The constant above 100°F days in summer can get a bit much at times but id prefer those than the cold haha. I see people commenting about diesel heaters a bit on vids? Over here we have and use home built, waste oil heaters that use flues or chimneys for smoke extraction. A cheap and effective way to heat any area but id be concerned about potential toxic fumes overpowering the air in a truck or camper set up. Be interesting to see your set up in 6-12+ months and how much you change or improve. Thanks for the vid, can't wait for more, keep being your good self mate and all the best 🤙
The cold is never fun, it's always uncomfortable, but like anything else you get used to it. Where I live in Kentucky it's normal to see -5F a couple times every winter, and also to see >100F a few times in the summer. Spring and fall are the real bastards, from one day to the next you don't know if you'll need to dress for survival or a beach vacation lol
The big truck sleepers use diesel heaters. I know from experience they heat great and far cheaper to run compared to propane. Insulation is key though.
Been there. Done that. Now, don't. Free electric makes this a no-brainer. Wind / air movement is one of the enemies of the warmth seeker. If you have no condensation, you have too much air moving about. Additional bedding and a warm hat go a long ways to comfort. I keep my foot wear under my bedding so mornings are better. LP is likely the least costly fuel beaten by diesel, but the safety issues need consideration. I hesitate to do the roadside free wood thing with a wood stove, ditto safety. Being in a warmish climate is what helps the most when on a budget - for me. Thank you. Stay safe. You gots gadgets, man.
I like to use the oil filled radiator style space heaters. They take a bit longer to get the place up to temp but once theyre up to temp they stay warm a long time and are a bit safer than most coil type space heaters. Need to seal up your cracks even if its just with tape. Stuff something to insulate between the topper and plywood, hit harbor freight for moving blankets and line your rear wall with it, just staple it up there its amazing what 1/4 inch of fabric will do in blocking the cold
Appreciate the advice! IL try one of those radiator style heater down the road, I get recommended that one a lot. Not before insulating though which I will be improving on. Thank you
I think your biggest issue is insulation as many people have mentioned already. I would also get a heated blanket, uses allot less electricity to just heat your bed when your in it.
I have one called My heat. it's 200 watts. works insanely good for such a small heater. Used with ecoflow mini. Safer than the mr heater. I have one of those too.
It was a toss up between the Honey well heat bud and that Lasko my heat I ended up going with the heat bud 250 watt high and 200 on low. The Mr. Heater buddy? Yeah they are kinda sketchy but work really well!
3 burner stove and a heat activated fan worked for me after i insulated my van, i always wanted to get a little diesel heater or even get a little diesel generator off a wrecked truck and see i couldn't make it work for me.
You are using a lot of electricity for the space heaters and they don’t seem to be working like you had hoped. Would an oversized electric blanket work better for you? Lay it down, get on top and then fold it over yourself. Just a thought.
What is your power sorce? Also if avalable get some of the little 1/2 inch foil backed foam board. That stuff works pretty dang good its cheap and wont take up room in your truck its under$20 and id say one sheet would do most of the insides
Yes. Put it under u. The heat will rise and fill the top blanket with heat. U stay very toasty. Also, a good staplet and cardboard are ur best friend to seal it up. And some clear packaging tape. The last leaks will form ice. Easy to find them and seal them up. I used an oil filled radiator heater, and a fan to move the air. Was toasty at -35F. 17ft x 7ft space.
My guy, hang some emergency thermal blankets. I literally just used them in one of my tents last weekend when temps randomly dropped 20F and none of us packed for that. Total game changer. Kept the tent at close to 60F just from our body heat… and it got down to 31F that night.
Appreciate the advice and thank you for the comment!
Take just the base of an oil lamp, and put a terracotta pot upside down over it with some wooden blocks or tinfoil balls or whatever that lift it an inch or so, so that it gets air, then put a smaller terracotta pot on top of it (over the drainage hole in the bottom/now top of the pot)
You'll be absolutely amazed at how much heat it throws. I've heated a whole room with these things in power outages
@@StriveSurviveWife and I are currently living in our car. Cheap dollar store windshield sunshades and blankets over the windows will also make a huge difference for blocking the cold & holding in the heat. Good luck, man, we know your struggles.
Get some of those insulation blankets truckers use. Cheap and do good.
Wool blankets
Couple of ideas for ya:
1) get some reflectix and put up on the ceiling & walls - will help reflect that heat back inside.
2) Go to a big box store and get 2 sheets of Foamular (4x8 ) - I'd get one at 1.5 inch & one at 2 Inch thick. Use t g e 2 b inch below you on trk bed. Other one to better insulate your walls & ceiling.
3) buy a thermometer that you can read remotely. Every time you open your back door to ck the outside temp, you lose all of your heat.
4) you need 3 times the insulation below you that you need above you. - So if you insulate your bed really well, you can skimp a bit on covers.
5) Lastly,try to eat or drink something warm before going to bed. Something with carbs will keep you warm while your body breaks it down
I appreciate them.
1) I did get some reflectix coincidentally
2) Did not get foam but that's a good idea
3) An indoor/outdoor thermometer
would be perfect
4) I ended getting some carpet for the floor
5) Alright lol I thought you were going to roast my weight
Appreciate the feedback
Nice that you don't need clearance at the back of that heater. And nice to see enough results to make it viable- 62F is pretty good;I can live with that myself. Maybe run the "Buddy heater" a few minutes to jump-start the warming then let that heater maintain the temp. You can safely use extension cords with these but it needs to be big enough. I use 12ga for 50 ft and feed that with a 10ga cord for another 50 if I have to. A 14ga might be enough for 25ft but that's pushing it. The main danger with these is overheating combustibles in front or above them- gotta be very careful about that, especially above them.
The Technology Connections channel did a vid on these types of heaters and most don't do the full 1500 watts. He also explained that using Ohm's law 1500w @120V equals 12.5A. Electrical outlets are15A minimum but that's a maximum load rating and you're not supposed to pull a load of more than 80% of the rating after 15 minutes which is 12A, so there's no margin for safety here but if the outlet and house wiring are good it's probably OK. All circuits have a voltage drop related to distance from the source, and the cord sizes I use compensate for that drop. The problem is that most people don't understand all this stuff and use too small of a cord, or overload a house circuit by having more things on it than just the heater.
A down-and-dirty test of cord safety is to feel it after a few minutes. If it's slightly warn you're probably OK but anything past that is a problem. Often the plug and outlet ends aren't up to snuff so feel those too- they shouldn't be any warmer than the wire in the cord. Heavy-duty cords have better plugs and outlets and are best here. My current electrical set-up doesn't let me run mine on anything but low so it gets chilly in here but it's survivable, especially under my polar fleece blanket-those things are great and you should get one. My car died again- a rod knocking this time- but I have some money this time so a fix or another vehicle will happen ASAP. And just as I thought I was doing OK again, but that seems to be my 'normal'. We're survivors though you and me, and we'll find a way through everything somehow.
Hey bud! Glad you know a good deal about electrical cause I'm not as confident! I definitely watch everything and make sure temps and all are in good margin! I'm sorry to hear about the vehicle knocking. It's always something isn't it! That's an expensive or time consuming task rebuilding a motor, and finding a decent vehicle at a decent price anymore is impossible!
Yep I fried an edger AND a leaf blower (both 12 amp) using (3) 50 foot 14 gauge cords. The magic smoke was coming out of both.
I saw a video the other day, a guy bought a heated blanket to winter camp.
I believe it was around 0 degrees for him, the heated blanket had like 12 settings and he had to have it turned down to setting 2 because it was too warm!
The big plus is that it only pulled 100 or so watts and he was able to run it off a jackery all night.
Stay warm man!
I appreciate it man, thank you for the feedback! Have a nice day!
@@matthewroyston9891 sounds like Mav. I miss his old videos.
The huge crack at the door will never let those little space heaters catch up.
I will be adding more insulation. The build was built in a rush so there's a lot to improve on.
Hair dryers work great for small areas for short times.
Uses a lot of power and is not very effective. More dangerous than anything.
Yea I'm camping on my property in my rig ( lance camper ) and it's single digits up to 20 something deg. Nights now . I use a 0 deg. Sleeping bag with blankets on top , diesel heater in the mornings and evenings , thermals on , beenie on , hoody on , wool socks ....and I'm good . This is how I sleep in winters and I stay warm ... A sleep bag would help my tremendously . Get one that sinches up around your head with a draw string....that helps a lot !! Anyways my 2 cents on some advice for ya ....hang in there and glad the heater is helping ....👍
Hi thank you for the 2 cents appreciate your advice! Haven't owned a sleeping bag before but I have been thinking on that and a diesel heater as well! I do know thermals and I need some of those lol
Man i cant imagine living in my lance let alone the bed of my truck through winter. Yall are a lot harder than me.
Wool,wool,wool,plus goose down
@@flyfishing1776 .....Yea goose down works well ...I have two fart bags that are down filled ....never use them thou iny camper only when I'm outside in snow on a mountain in a tent ...my camper is pretty cozy and so far with heater off,all night temp hasent dropped below 40 deg. F. ....that's pretty freaking great .....lol !
If these goose downs are these pants leggings I'm looking at i can totally see why you'd call them fart bags!? They look like woopie cushions!
Thanks much for sharing and I hope you have a wonderful and warm day.
Hey bud, I've been experimenting with heated camping bed liner. I'm glad to say it was successful. It definitely keeps me warm and lower wattage than these heaters. Place the heated pad underneath you inside your sleeping bag with a wool blanket on top to trap the heat. I actually get too hot sometimes. The only done size is that your sleeping space will still be cold 🥶
Thank you for your continued support! You have a nice day as well
@@nintendo4lifenesA heated pad sounds nice for both the floor and under the bed!
Insulation is the key to comfort.
I will be getting on that sir thank you!
Bruh the algorithm has brought me here I'm not sure why but I subscribed. You should consider getting some wool blankets, if you can't afford it give your viewers an address to send you stuff you need. There's a saying "if you build it they will come" it's true!
Well I'm glad it brought you here and thanks for subscribing! I got some stuff to insulate! I know people have been asking and been very kind and supportive.. most people anyway lol. Have a good one
@@StriveSurvive Yes I saw the video where you were talking about work politics and then you bought some supplies to insulate your truck, hopefully you have a chance to do that soon.
Hey Thanks for watching! I just responded somewhere else lol. I did insulate luckily I found a garage to do it in but it was also freezing inside the garage. (Not as cold as out there)
I find and electric blanket. Under the sheet with a couple of blankets works pretty well.
I was given a heated vest recently it's only usb powered so not to crazy hot or long lasting but I throw that under my feet and it's portable! Next step will be a pad or blanket. Appreciate the comment!
@@butchthurman4685 that’s good idea
Love your videos man!!! Thank you for taking the time to make them and sharing your knowledge with us.
Appreciate this so much! This keeps my spirts warmer than these heaters!
Get some Harbor Freight moving blankets and staple them to the walls and roof . Keep some to cover up with too
Thanks for the advice! Appreciate the feedback!
We're living in a camper on our property it's been rough we started off in a tent but got flooded a few times and lost everything now we've moved up to a pop-up camper and hopefully soon we'll be moving up to a bigger camper just keep moving forward no matter how you move just keep moving forward thanks for the videos keeping them up
Sorry about the flood man it's rough starting again it hurts rebuking lost equipment! Glad things are looking up!
You have to weatherstrip that door and every other crack on that camper. When the sun came up you could easily see sunlight all around that door, which is exactly where all your heats going. I have a small area heater in a resin storage shed that keeps it a toasty 65 to 70 degrees. I spray foamed every crack and crevice but left the table vents open for ventilation. I work nights but spend time out there working on wood projects on my nights off and my little 800 watt space heater has been amazing.
I know I will be adding more insulation, thanks for the feedback. That scene was an example of the state it's in currently glad that it shined through
You would be well served to change your insulation. If you add something like old quilts as curtains, all around your area would help tons. Also on your ceiling. You can secure that with some magnetic setup so it’s easy to remove when you want. I don’t know how much you’ve insulated the floor area, but especially when it’s windy, that’s a huge change. Rugs or carpets are great for this and work very well on the ceiling.
Every tiny gap loses allot more heat than you think. Insulation is far more effective than adding heating.
Also, a heating pad or thermal mass, if you cook cast iron or rocks even, under your sleeping area will help tremendously.
I have not insulated the floor, only thing there is the plastic bed liner and I can't believe how much air comes from below.
@ I see you have used styrofoam on some of your walls, that under some rugs or carpet would help tremendously.
I’ve lived in some interesting situations and insulation is an absolute game changer.
Also thermo mass allows you to keep your temperature while using far less energy. Look up thermos mass theory because there’s so many ways to use it to your advantage.
If you can turn your heat on before you go in, it feels warmer inside to your brain for longer.
I generally like to have 2-3 different heat sources in case there’s an issue with one or for extreme temperatures. Electric, propane, diesel and my favorite for boondocking is along the lines of a terracotta heater. You do have to be mindful about fires, but people have lived in trailers heated by fire for hundreds of years or more.
rugs are a good idea for insulation
An electric heating pad under the blankets keeps you extremely warm. Even if the living space is cold, you'll still be warm with enough layers of blankets. I layer sheet, blanket, sheet, blanket, and it really insulates. Heating pad sold at drugstore with a lifetime warranty. Probably a lot less electricity needed.
I know I need one! Probably 2 it would be nice to have one on the floor! Thank you for the comment
I used to do this it works
@@StriveSurviveyou may even get too warm
Go to an army/navy store and get a military sleeping bag and blanket. Hope your day get better and you stay warm.
Thank you appreciate that, have a good one!
I just bought a diesel heater for my van and the thing is amazing. I highly recommend over propane, a lot cheaper too.
Take a little time to seal up the air gaps around your door and such and add some non flammable insulation (lose the cardboard). I get by with a 600 watt heater in my van no issue at below freezing
Thank you appreciate the advice! At this point I did fill some gaps next I'm doing better insulation.
So many ideas available to make improvements so it’s hard to decide what would be best for you. I’d go with some good insulation, at least an inch thick would provide enough to preserve generated heat. You’re excluding the pickup bed itself as a potential loss of heat so insulating that with foam board is also important and, it’s very cheap to acquire, you can likely get some for free by digging through the dumpster at a housing development that’s under construction. Consider using a sheet metal smoke stack or something in similar size and shape, just something that you can put any oil lamp inside so it heats up the pipe sheet metal which will connect heat into the living space without compromising the breathing air. The lamp fumes will vent up the pipe so there’s no danger of poisoning. This type of heating is dirt cheap and you can use any kind of oil. By using electricity as your primary heat source is an option that should be down the list of back up heat sources since it’s more expensive to create, store and manage. You can also consider raising the camper shell a few more inches with a few pieces of lumber by placing the lumber between the pickup bed and the camper shell, again it’ll cost next to nothing in materials, just a bit of labor to install it. In place of foam insulation, just hang some kind of thick blankets where needed. You can use those blankets that movers use since they’re easy to find used and they’re cheap. Try to have your heat source to also function as a stove when needed to save more fuel and space. By building in back up systems for what I mentioned is important, at least have one backup method on hand and 3 would be better. Ensure that the moisture inside the camper doesn’t get too high so using a small computer hard drive fan to keep the air flowing out will aid in this but only,on low speeds.
Appreciate the comment man, loads of good advice! I insulated my truck with some reflectix seemed like good stuff! I want to look into an oil burner that would be nice, plus I like making stuff like that. I do need to raise the cap desperately. Thanks again buddy have a good one
@ your welcome and thanks for taking time to share with us. I was thinking that you might want to look into making or buying a waste oil stove where you can use used motor oil to cook and heat. They’re not too hard to make and a small one wouldn’t take up much space but you’ll need to ensure it doesn’t generate too much heat. For the oil, you can get that for free from various garages or quick oil change shops. And the stoves I’ve seen people build here in YT burn clean, nearly smokeless and hot, they pull in a good amount of air so the temperature is higher than other stoves. But if it didn’t have the airflow it would create a lot of smoke and soot. Either option you decide on should be interesting to watch in your future videos. Thanks again.
Kevin
I hate that folks are suffering in shelters ordinarily not housing. I am praying 🙏 for everyone and hoping for better days. I am glad and give thanks that you have your own shelter/truck/van/camper, people in their cars is heartwrenching. Many of us are a heartbeat away from homelessness, God have mercy we pray 🙏, better days ahead brothers and sisters 🙏 Merry Christmas 🎅 🎄 ❤ 💙
I know it's hard times, and there's always someone out there that has it worse. I'm thankful for what I have! Bless you and have a good day
Hardware stores have that blue foam board insulation. Cut to fight it anywhere. Not the highest R value, but better than nothing. And it can be layered in places. And if you tape it in, you can move it around. Also, thrift stores, they sometimes have a lot of fleece blankets and throws for dirt cheap. Get 5 or 6 of those things in that bed and you’ll be snug as a bug.
I picked up some materials finally il be doing a video eventually
I sleep up in cold Canada with the window open a little. Go to value village and buy 1970's knitted blankets and throws and sew together. Buy heavy wool blankets and 7 different layers......REMEMBER : You have a heater core in your body it just needs the insulation at night. I am always cozy in my sleep or i adjust my temperature layer. In the 1930's they didn't burn wood at night they used blanket insulation.
Wool works!
My heater core has titanium down the middle! I might take the cold a bit worse than most il admit! I forgot.. thank you for the comment!
Canadian military sleeping bag system, with a nice wool blanket underneath 👌🏼
No heater required. But a heater is Super nice of course lol. Keep living the dream brother. 🤜🏽🤛🏽
Appreciate the advice! Thank you for the feed back
150 dollar diesel heater on Amazon. The only real solution. I use my 2 kw heater in my Step van. Easily keeps the temp. at 70 to 75 degrees. Use only about 3 to 5 watts of power to run after the initial start up of about 110 watts for about three minutes or so. Permanent install is best. Uses approx. A little over a gallon of diesel in a 24 hours period running constantly.
Appreciate the feedback!
They are a lot less than that now. $90 for a good Vevor.
you need to go to Walmart and pick up a pair of insulated cover-alls to sleep in. when i was homeless in the winter those cover-alls literally saved my life many of cold night
Sorry you had to go through that bud, hopefully your good now! Definitely on the list
You should look into the small diesel heaters. They are super efficient and only use 5 watts of power. Online reviews are very good. Just sayin
I know I know, just give me some time and IL get one.
my vevor runs 3 days on 5 gallon jug with a fuel line mod. i heat my house with it.. its good till its like 5f ...then you need more but a truck it would heat all day long no problem and you could run it on a lower setting and make your heater run a week on 5 gallons
Appreciate the feedback!
Gotta get some insulation on those walls, ceiling, and floor, it'll help for winter AND summer. Grab yourself a zero bag.... sleeping bag meant for subzero camping and usually has a cocoon type hood that encases your head, but doesn't strangle you, just keeps your head heat from escaping too much.... and blankets man...grab at least a few of those "furry foam core" blankets, they seem thin, but they have foam cores and are fuzzy on both sides, those are fantastic for stacking and are surprisingly warm, and then on top, a good wool blanket....hit up the Goodwill or similar places for one of those. But the more insulation you can get into that truck bed, the better you'll be during ALL seasons. Glad you have access to power, but you wouldn't be too bad without it as long as you have the insulation, the sleeping bag, those blankets.... think about long johns and some socks and even those cheapie thin fuzzy knitted gloves, just to keep some warmth in your extremities..... it's typically -20f to -60f where I am.... I don't think there's any way I'd be able to make it out in my truck without heat in my winters....in +20f, it wouldn't be "too" dreadful (but I've been there, was homeless for 5yrs, first almost 2yrs in a tent in Jersey, last bit sleeping in acquaintance's garages or similar)
That was chock-ful of good info man! Thank you for the advice! Sorry about the rough times man, hopefully you are in a better place now.
My plan if ever in that situation is a small homemade wood burner . and little buddy back up .
I thought about a wood burner but would be tedious for me.
@@StriveSurvive my brother. Tedium beats freezing. 😂
That's true!
I sleep in my hunting cabin with no heat until morning when I light a fire, you can get a $40 sleeping bag that will have you almost sweat once your tucked in as long as your out of the wind it can withstand temps of 0 degrees.
I need a sleeping bag lol thank you for the comment!
Hey,i just subbed.
Prayers for you man.
Stay strong stay safe keep your head up.
Dont fall for the rat race.
Thank you appreciate your comment!
I’ve built a wooden box in the back of my van, thick plywood for the walls, with pallets below layered by plywood, a futon on top of it elevating me higher. I’m actually surprised I survived -40f so far. I wore a balaclava while my body was in the 0 degree sleeping bag. I didn’t make a door in the wooden box of my van but it’s blocked but sleeping bags held up by clamps. No heater but the sleeping bags and wooden box, kinda like a rectangle coffin. I’d imagine -60f would be insane but survivable. I just need to buy more 0 degree sleeping bags and pile them on top of the one I’m in.
That sounds awful man! Glad you toughed it out!
20 lb propane tank connected to the buddy heater is better than using a costly 1lb bottle. However, a diesel heater is king.
I built and lived in a THOW northern MN -50F extremes. Suggest skirting solition to stop under draft. Also, needed larger propane tanks to keep up pace for the extreme temps. If you have a water line, you can put heat tape inside the line too if its rated for it.
-50 that's crazy think the coldest I've seen was around -30. There is a strong updraft I will need to do something about that. I have a few free propane tanks that I found on the side of the road just need the dang hose and filter
@@StriveSurviveI picked up one of the adapter hoses at my local stines to hook my buddy heater to a 5 gallon tank. Seems like it was bout 30$. If u need the part number I can grab it out the closet and give the part number
I appreciate you willing to go the extra bit to get the part # for me but I know which hose and stuff just tight budget.
I suspect insulation is a big factor working against you. I built a campervan and went overbored with insulation. The first thing I installed was a gas heater, after that I spent time in the van with different levels of insulation. In its current state, i need about 20% of the heater that I did initially. A 1" 4'x8' R-5 foam board is $32 bucks at Home depot. It may seem silly to spend $120 of your budget on 4 of them, but it would save you an incredible amount of energy by providing heat retention, something I'm not sure you have a lot of. In my van I did spray foam everywhere with 1.5" foam board under the floor, 1/2 foam under the shiplap ceiling, and lots of sheeps wool everywhere I still want access to. Its ridiculous, but my 12v split unit AC can easily keep the van cool when its 95 degrees outside. What you are doing is awesome, if you can hack the $$ to essentially build yourself a foam box inside that topper, you will thank yourself.
It's definitely the lack of insulation. I have thin ass bubbles foil insulation from Lowe's and Amazon on my windows and I can tell it helps keep the heat out during summer unless it's extremely hot so it should insulate a bit if you install it around you and get a sleeping bag
Have you ever seen day after tomorrow. Even paper balled up and stuffed into a tight spot can count as insulation. Get it how you can and it will save your life.
@@theyreoutthere.huntinggear I'm aware that cardboard is better than nothing, I'm trying to point out that there is $250 worth of heaters in that topper if you include the buddy heater and spending half that on proper insulation is without a doubt the next best step he can take. I almost died sleeping in a car with just a buddy heater when it was -10f and it cut off in the middle of the night. I woke up in pain, unable to move my body I was so cold, he needs to properly insulate for heat retention.
@@theyreoutthere.huntinggear I absolutely love that movie!
I got better insulation I will do a video soon guys.
You need a sub zero sleeping back and insulate/seal the back as best you can/they make sheets of insulation that would help incredibly. All the heat from your heaters is just escaping that cab, almost doing nothing. Those little heaters should heat that size space so easy to beyond hot temps. Cheap way for now would be to line the top and sides with emergency blankets. The ones that look like tin foil. They will reflect the heat back. Ive had to resort to sleeping in my car more than once. One time was for a few months during the peak of winter. Had to sleep fully clothes with snow boots gloves on top of numerous blankets. Still had to start up the car every now and then and run the heat. Difficult to do while trying to "stealth camp" but I wouldve froze without it. Hope your situation improves. Keep in mind there are ppl that would kill to have a vehicle to sleep in, youre more blessed than you may believe.
Appreciate the comment man. I did insulate recently that should help, I was having to sleep with jackets and all. Sounds like you know the struggle I really appreciate the positivity man. I am very grateful for what I have, I know there are others out there in worse spots.
You should get some of that self adhesive auto insulation and put it in the inside of the camper topper. You're losing ALOT of the heat because nothings insulated.
I finally got some materials il do a video on it later
My sons and I use modular sleep system setup it's a three piece system. A bivy sack, summer and winter bags that snap together and placed inside the bivy sack. You will not be disappointed.
I was going to post a similar thing. The 3-piece sleeping system works very well. I have used a bag in a bag before too and works well when it's dry.
I don't touch heaters until I wake up. I'll let them run for 5 minutes in an enclosed environment or a lot a pre-made fire if I'm camping.
@@billyteflon1322 that's where the bivy sack comes into play. It protects you from the elements. Rian, snow, wind etc.
Appreciate the advice!
@jamesweiser252 yeah, we have to be talking about the same thing. I had one in the military and have a milsurp one now. They are a great system to have. Never really had to use the winter one until I was training in Germany.
Bag in a bag is my secondary option. Astoria got hit with an ice storm last year and I was warm. I probably should clarify, I had a mummy bag in a sleeping bag. Was solid.
You need to get a diesel heater. You're rig would use about half gallon a day. I'm in the same boat but bigger.
I know man appreciate the comment!
I use to live in a shed. Yeah i did some cardboard insulation too. I used a 10,000 btu kerosene heater to keep me warm and great part was i can tune it way down to save fuel but was hard on the wick. Either way i didnt have to clean the wick for the 2 months i stayed. I didnt have electricity to power any space heaters. I had car batteries that id charge with my car go to work and back to the shed was enough for light and charge my phone.
I used one of those kerosene heaters in my trailer had a broken furnace so that thing was a life saver! The no power part must have been rough!;
@StriveSurvive it wasn't so bad not having supplied electricity honestly. I was warm and had food :). Being in a shed with no electricity for a few weeks was actually an escape from the living hell I endured for years.
I lived in my truck for 11 years a long time ago...in the winter find yourself a place if you can afford that has monthly parking and if they have lower levels it helps with a lot prevent alot of wind from getting at your truck..it also helps with some security against break ins
Appreciate the tip, it's a matter of where is more comfortable I have somewhere I can park to be closer to work and save gas but no AC outlet and it's high traffic area so there's trade offs
I bought a body pillow at walmart and put it against my cold side and it REALLY insulates WELL from the cold, esp if I have it with me in the sleeping bag!! Try this even with thrift store blankets folded 4x so they're long and put them against your side, it works a treat.
Appreciate the advice I did end up using some old pillows and other materials to insulate
Thank you for sharing and demonstrating your bid to keep warm .....is there any way you could boil water in a pan safely and make a hot drink of tea or coffee ?? And with the left over hot water put some pebbles in and reboil pot drain off water and pour hot pebbles into a sock and tie it up to make a snuggle type thing to hug under your blanket? I have liked and subscribed to show support for your channel hugs from Scotland 🤗
Thank you so much! I haven't thought to do that with rocks actually a good idea! I know I've seen people pour the hot water in a water bottle also and do the same thing, i imagine the rocks would stay warmer longer! Appreciate the comment so much and the support! Scotland! That's awesome I'm glad my videos are getting some reach out that's exciting!
Get an electric blanket
That is what i use in back of my truck..i put it on bed and sleep on top of it w blanket or sleeping bag over me
Plan on it! Thank you!
I love your setup! Yup all you need us a zero degree sleeping bag.
Thank you appreciate it! Yeah I definitely need one
I'd recommend a method of using an electric blanket and only using the space heater when you need to, like needing to use the restroom, or getting changed into warm clothes. Coupled with a good blanket and an insulated sleeping pad, you can stay toasty while minimizing the watts per hour.
Appreciate the advice! That will definitely help conserve power.
@@StriveSurvive Make sure to pick up a washable one of the size that suits your needs. It's a little different to wash, but is better than just dealing with a dirty blanket. I live on a boat in a marina that has commercial rates, so power is expensive. Just be sure of the wattage it uses before you buy. Some of the USB operated ones seem a bit under-powered.
I live full time in my Sprinter
Northwest Montana
I have the Olympian wave 6
Add an old old electric blanket, that I got at a second hand store.
I bought a new electric blanket but it used too much wattage.
I have two CO2 monitors and two fire alarms
And yes I keep my propane tank in the front seat.
That is where one of the CO2 monitors are is right over the top of that tank connections.
I was priced out of rentals and I've lived here all my life.
I use a coffee can for number one,
And a small trash can with bags in it and poultry bedding pellets for number two.
I have two plastic 6 gallon Jerry cans for freshwater, Grey water just gets dumped outside.
I have straight talk phone service unlimited talk text...with a Motorola phone and that's how I watch UA-cam videos.
Stay safe out there you all.
@@BongRipBing Glad you said something about washable. I hadn't considered that aspect! Live on a marina? That's interesting any videos?
@@dawnmtwild5409renting is insane nowadays. When I looked into an apartment they wanted first month, last month and a security deposit on top of paying the actual first months rent.
Put a tarp over your rig. It creates an air pocket that is insulation and will keep you warmer by a few degrees and also keeps the wind out. Works for me. Good luck to man.
Appreciate your advice il give that a shot!
Get you an electric blanket.. The better you insulated the more heat, you will retaining it.. If you use an electric blanket and hunters battery charge socks, your body will stay warm.. The battery socks have a rechargeable battery…
Used a regular electric blanket under a couple wool blankets and was too hot in -5C ( 23F). Only took 20% of power from Ecoflow River pro 2.
A wool blanket and wool clothing would make more sense and cost a lot less in time and maintenance charging batteries
I appreciate the advice guys!
Get yourself a chinese diesel heater! 👍 been using one in my trailer for the last four winters brilliant they are. 12volt and on the lowest setting uses 1 gallon of diesel every 36 hours keeps my trailer at about 68F anyway best of luck!👍
That's what I've been hearing, appreciate your comment.
@@StriveSurvive no worries! I often wonder how everyone else is managing in a similar situation! Stay warm and merry Christmas!
You need a Vent. that Can draw out that CO2 from inside. above 1,500ppm co2 can cause drowsiness and effect sleeping. but as you get closer to the 2,000pm co2 mark you can start to get headaches, fatigue, stuffiness, loss of focus.
Yes! Otherwise, You're cracking your window open, which is eating your heat.
Yeah that's a good call. Had to have the door and a window open at one point which defeated the point of using the heater lol
I used my f150 as a motel during gun deer season for many years, the best thing I did was insulate the roof sides and tailgate, and cover all of that with space blankets. The space heater i had was not very big but it kept me almost sweating. It was one of the best ideas I had for gun season. We always had issues getting out of the bar and camping on the land took that right out of the equation. Can't go to the bar if the hotel is tethered to a telephone pole.
Lol I applaud your dedication!
Get a chinese diesel heater, you'll pay about 100 bucks and all you need to do is run a small exhaust hole out your door. It's cheap to run and I guarantee that small space even uninsulated will get way too hot for you.
My neighbor set one up in his garage and im shocked at how well and cheap it is
Diesel more expensive than propane 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 still need electric ⚡️ please 🙏 explain again how cheap and efficient it is again 😂
@@Streetlife1025 where I live diesel is around 3.50 a gallon, my heater will keep my shop (uninsulated 20x16) at 65 when it's 0 outside. It runs for 8 -10 hours on one gallon of diesel. In my area that is way cheaper than propane and the cost of electricity. Also propane put huge amounts of moisture in the air as it burns. Not good if you have a shop with tools or anything you don't want moisture to ruin eventually.
And i get over a week on 20 lbs tank of propane on a mr heater the one that 20 pounder tank fits in the back and a woodstove fan 17.00 a week no power 🤷♂️ ill do a video on it think your wasting money 💵 all I saying
@Streetlife1025 I guess it all depends what you are trying to heat and for what purpose. Not calling propane bad in every application. For my particular setup I found the solution I like for my tools and safety. But when it all boils down its about keeping warm and you can do that many ways. Thanks for the videos! Happy New Year.
I have the same gas heater and i refill my green cans with a big tank and i can get my big tank refilled for $20 and it last longer with refilling the big tank
Thanks for the feedback
We have used Reflectix in Cour d'Alene Idaho, Flathead Valley Montana, Strausberg Colorado, and Casper Wyoming in deep freeze weather and a My Buddy and been toastie warm. 1/4 inch foam insulation and "insulation tape" on all seems. Better have a good ventilation system. Wool blankets and great sleeping bag! You'll survive.
Appreciate the feedback!
Back packing mummy sleeping bags can be rated to well below zero. Much safer than heaters.
Yes true!
That's what I just suggested, a subzero bag, _insulation_ which is the absolute most important thing he can do as it'll help in all temperatures, then a couple of those "thin foam fuzzy" blankets AND one wool blanket (that one from a thrift store or Goodwill) and he'll be golden.... the insulation is the most important.
Foil backed insulation, cut and taped up with aluminum duct/insulation tape over the ceiling, walls, and floor.... he'd probably only need the one heater as long as he doesn't have any air coming through (if so, through the bed to cap gap, some silicone or that duct tape).
I lived my first 2yrs being homeless in a simple camping tent through the snow and cold and everything, zero heat except my own body heat, I had just gotten blankets and tarps and insulated my tent from above and encased it with a tarp fully to keep it dry, then inside I had a foam bedroll, and multiple blankets and would just encase myself.... oddly enough, I'd say there were days I missed, but there's zero chance I'd survive a day outside where I am now, in northern ND.... it'll reach -50°f here with ridiculous wind, plus there's no damn trees or woods to hide out in for miles on end, and even if I still had my van, if it wasn't running, and if it didn't have a ton of insulation and an auxiliary heat source, I'd freeze to death.... it's entirely too cold out here
Great video, it sounds like an astronaut trying to land the shuttle. keep warm
Thanks you. What do you mean by "it sounds like an astronaut trying to land the shuttle"?
You've got the solution to your heating bolted to your door! Instead of using the little 1 lb green cylinders of propane which only last for about 4 hours (which I have come to recently find out!), get an adapter hose and use a 20 lb cylinder of propane like what you use on a barbecue grill!! I have 100 square feet and the same heater and 4.5 gallons of propane will last me about 7 days. I run the heat anywhere from 6 to 8 hours a day. You can refill the tank at any hardware store and I refilled mine Sunday and spent about $17. The small space you are heating, a tank would last you a month! Anyways, it's something to think about and would be a better use instead of all of those electric heaters.
My heater buddy stopped working after using a 20 lb tank with no filter. Long story short I need another hose and filter foe that! Thanks for the feedback
Is it true propane doesn't work below a certain temperature green bottle or 20 ilb tank
You should look at military surplus for the modular sleep system, it's a lightweight bag and a cold weather bag and you can use em together. 3rd part of the system is a goretex bivy. The system will get you from mild temps to really cold
I've heard of these now at this point! I appreciate it, I just got my first sleeping bag excited to try that!
Don't forget the iso mat basicly a thin foam matt you lay under the bag system to block cold from below.
Cardboard is a great insulation
I got some materials thank you will have a video soon
You can get a hose for that buddy heater to run it on the 20lb tank. Hose is fairly cheap and if lucky you can find an empty propane bottle to use. I found one at Lowes sitting beside the cage thing. Also if tight on funds use cardboard for insulation. That is how I have dome it in the past. Then as I got money I bought carpet mats to put on top of the cardboard floor lining. Cardboard on the walls also. Now I am using a diesal heater and the propane heater. Depends on which I have fuel for at the time as to what I use.
I found a few propane tanks on the side of the road! I had one already but a backup doesn't hurt. Just need the hose I know it's cheap and stuff
i used an inverter with a cooling fan built in , I would just leave it plugged into the car battery and let it sit there non plugged into to any electrical device and it would stay warm and turn the fan on and off from time to time keeping the cabin in the car warm throughout the night.
Appreciate the advice and the comment! Have a good day!
I would recommend 1 to 2 inch foil backed blue board insulation. On all the inside.
Get a diesel heater and get rid of the buddy junk.
It will be 70 degrees in there
I know I need one! Appreciate the comment
Man... you are losing so much heat through having no door seal.. among other things. I applaud your moxy!!
I know I will be tending to that. Appreciate it bud! Have a good one
Bro, get one of those 100$ diesel heaters. Not sure who's paying for the power for those space heaters but they cost a fortune to run
Il take care of them either way. I do want one it's just a matter of time.
Get decent bedding, good sleeping bag. Wish you luck.
Thanks for commenting and I appreciate it thanks!
I've insulated all of my windows in my 97 tahoe with styrofoam. I made them custom of course to easily be removed and tossed in the front seat if I need to go anywhere.
I'm going to redo the insulation soon, thank you for the comment have a good one
use heated blankets for the base then use a feather and a heavy quit for the top layer to trap the heat. or put on your whaling suit go to the bar at last call and bring home the biggest girl or guy whatever you in to. case close
That's some out of pocket advice but hey I appreciate it!
Get one of the diesel heaters truckers use in their sleepers
Yeah i got a lot of recommendations on those
I have that and a big buddy heater connected to a 20lb tank heating my garage. Imo the diesel heater is the better unit. Less smell@@StriveSurvive
@@StriveSurviveI have a 35 foot camper with an 18 ft pop out.
An 8kv vevor heater on low heats it when it's zero outside. It uses 2 liters every 24 hrs.
Only way to go.
I have 2 400watt space heaters and a 2 stroke 900watt generator. Last night got down to 18°. I only had to use one space heater in a 4 door tracker. Tonight on the other hand, it is 5° I have both space heaters running and a heated blanket generator will run out of fuel in 5 hours at full load. last night it ran eight hours.
What are you staying in?
@ 2002 Chevy tracker
Def get some kinda insulation on the walls , emergency blankets stapled up if nothing else get bbq grill propane tank will last u forever would def recomend sealing up every nook and cranny felt tape on your door and get a carbon monoxide detector and smoke alarm asap
I finally was able to get some stuff for insulation
@StriveSurvive thanks 4 reply love the content
Better bedding alone can get you pretty far in an enclosed space, even without heaters, so layers are your friend. Also, for heating, if you get a sleeping bag and a heating pad or electric blanket you can toss in there too, you get more heat delivered efficiently to your body rather than lost to the air and so every bit of power you're using goes a lot farther.
Thank you so much for the positive advice! Appreciate you watching take care!
I would get rigid foam insulation on the bed floor first topped by a 4 x 8 sheet of material like 3/8 thick laminate .then maybe glue insulation panels like the kits for garage doors that are reflective on the sidewalls and roof
Yeah I need to pull everything out and get to insulating, reorganize while I'm at it
Wow, nice setup, thats total stealthy !
That's what I was shooting for! Thank you for the comment!
Ok so i live in Whyalla, South Australia, Australia... Ive never seen snow and ive never been in temps bellow say 4°C so it really spins me out to see the extremes and ways you guys have to go to, to stay warm.
If i was to ever come across to such a cold climate, id peob freeze to death before acclimatizing to the conditions 🤣
The constant above 100°F days in summer can get a bit much at times but id prefer those than the cold haha.
I see people commenting about diesel heaters a bit on vids?
Over here we have and use home built, waste oil heaters that use flues or chimneys for smoke extraction. A cheap and effective way to heat any area but id be concerned about potential toxic fumes overpowering the air in a truck or camper set up.
Be interesting to see your set up in 6-12+ months and how much you change or improve.
Thanks for the vid, can't wait for more, keep being your good self mate and all the best 🤙
The cold is never fun, it's always uncomfortable, but like anything else you get used to it. Where I live in Kentucky it's normal to see -5F a couple times every winter, and also to see >100F a few times in the summer. Spring and fall are the real bastards, from one day to the next you don't know if you'll need to dress for survival or a beach vacation lol
The big truck sleepers use diesel heaters. I know from experience they heat great and far cheaper to run compared to propane. Insulation is key though.
Appreciate that, I have heard many good things about them.
Get a good sleeping bag. Then work on something to sleep in like thermal underwear, flannel pants. Just subbed, I will be praying for you.
I appreciate that so much, been praying for all it's a crazy world! Hope you the best!
I stayed in my '93 Toyota pickup through a Wyoming winter, fun times!
You know the struggles then!
Sure does look chilly in there
The worse months are ahead!
Buy 100% WOOL BLANKETS I use several together while camping in 30 to 50 Below zero Temps no issues no external heat source either.
When I get some wool blankets I will test them! Appreciate the comment.
Been there. Done that. Now, don't. Free electric makes this a no-brainer. Wind / air movement is one of the enemies of the warmth seeker. If you have no condensation, you have too much air moving about. Additional bedding and a warm hat go a long ways to comfort. I keep my foot wear under my bedding so mornings are better. LP is likely the least costly fuel beaten by diesel, but the safety issues need consideration. I hesitate to do the roadside free wood thing with a wood stove, ditto safety. Being in a warmish climate is what helps the most when on a budget - for me. Thank you. Stay safe. You gots gadgets, man.
Appreciate the comment and sharing your experience. I made a joke about going south for the winter but man does that sound good! Have a great day!
I use that same heater in my ambulance when I'm on shore power. When camping it's the cheap diesel heater.
Appreciate the comment!
You have crazy air gaps and no insulation
Soon as I saw Toyota I clicked on.Smart choice for a vehicle.Good luck to you.
It's been a great truck! Appreciate it!
I like to use the oil filled radiator style space heaters. They take a bit longer to get the place up to temp but once theyre up to temp they stay warm a long time and are a bit safer than most coil type space heaters. Need to seal up your cracks even if its just with tape. Stuff something to insulate between the topper and plywood, hit harbor freight for moving blankets and line your rear wall with it, just staple it up there its amazing what 1/4 inch of fabric will do in blocking the cold
Appreciate the advice! IL try one of those radiator style heater down the road, I get recommended that one a lot. Not before insulating though which I will be improving on. Thank you
I think your biggest issue is insulation as many people have mentioned already. I would also get a heated blanket, uses allot less electricity to just heat your bed when your in it.
Appreciate it I'm going to work on that.
I have one called My heat. it's 200 watts. works insanely good for such a small heater. Used with ecoflow mini. Safer than the mr heater. I have one of those too.
It was a toss up between the Honey well heat bud and that Lasko my heat I ended up going with the heat bud 250 watt high and 200 on low. The Mr. Heater buddy? Yeah they are kinda sketchy but work really well!
Insulation and seal all gaps
This 100%
It’s amazing what one can do with cardboard and duct ape 🤦♂
I had a go at it, will be in next video and I do use some cardboard and duct tape 👍
I'd get a vevor diesel heater . Way cheaper than propane , keep that little space toasty warm.
I know I need one 😩
Propane is always good as a backup. You can have a tank sit for years, and it still works.
3 burner stove and a heat activated fan worked for me after i insulated my van, i always wanted to get a little diesel heater or even get a little diesel generator off a wrecked truck and see i couldn't make it work for me.
Appreciate the feed back. I'm working on insulation and a diesel heater would be nice.
@@StriveSurvivea diesel heater on low and you wouldn't need insulation I promise
The smaller the heater the more sealed and insulated the space needs to be.
Yes need to work on the insulation!
You are using a lot of electricity for the space heaters and they don’t seem to be working like you had hoped. Would an oversized electric blanket work better for you? Lay it down, get on top and then fold it over yourself. Just a thought.
Yeah I'm sure that would be better for sleeping definitely but not so much for being up
Look up those small diesel heaters! Guys are getting rigs like yours to stay 70+ degrees over night in situations similar to yours
You could inflate something in the space so that your heating much smaller area and it would heat up incredibly fast...
Yeah that's a good idea! I was thinking of sectoring the truck in half with a blanket.
@@StriveSurviveall the heaters I used sucked, except for the "milk house" style heaters they work great.
Appreciate the feed back! The little ones I have are pretty underwhelming as well
Use your phone to check outside temp stop opening the door...
I record with my phone and yes I could just state what the temperature is but I'd rather have a visual representation
Do something with the top of the door. Insulation.. should make a big difference..
I will, appreciate the comment
What is your power sorce? Also if avalable get some of the little 1/2 inch foil backed foam board. That stuff works pretty dang good its cheap and wont take up room in your truck its under$20 and id say one sheet would do most of the insides
Definitely working on the insulation next! I mostly use the ac outlet where I'm parking might as well while I have it!
Bro 15 yrs for me...good luck..😊
Dang brother hopefully your comfortable!?
best heater is an electric blanket
Yes. Put it under u. The heat will rise and fill the top blanket with heat. U stay very toasty. Also, a good staplet and cardboard are ur best friend to seal it up. And some clear packaging tape. The last leaks will form ice. Easy to find them and seal them up. I used an oil filled radiator heater, and a fan to move the air. Was toasty at -35F. 17ft x 7ft space.
Appreciate the advice guys!
@@StriveSurvivelook into getting a diesel heater.