You're smart to have tossed your cell phone. I got rid of my cell phone about 14 years ago and never looked back. I'm SO glad I did. It's made all the difference in my life. I'm very happy and always upbeat now and I don't worry about being tracked. When I go out I'm totally free and it's such a... well, FREEING feeling. I can't even express how much better off I am with out a cell phone. It's great!
I love when I see guys that actually go! Sounds sarcastic but I know cats with 30k setups that stare at there equipment. This guys spent a couple hundred and is getting after it. Great job man
I hear ya buddy. I so tire of these Overlanding UA-cam channels that are in reality all faked and scripted non-sense. Those channels are all about trying to get you to Buy Outdoor Junk. The reason I want to spend as much time in the back country is to get away from Materialism and this Screwed up world. I dont want nor do I need to take all that expensive crap with me to enjoy nature. Ill be honest the most peaceful and contented dudes I have seen in the back country are those types that have very very little. Some people would call them Hobos or indignant even. But there those dudes are with that million mile wide smile and eyes that look like deep pools. It's not what you spend on your rig or your gear. it is the fact that you actually use those things up. Wear them out through Experience......
Truck camping is hard to beat if you plan to take the path less followed, literally. As an old backpacker, I already own the lightweight, compact gear that makes the truck practical. But if starting from scratch and sticking to campsites a contractors or conversion van is a better option. The pass-through feature of vans and RV's is a total game changer. Crawling into a pickup truck bed works when your're young and camping solo but its a tight fit for a couple and condensation can ruin a nights sleep. Plus, you'll need to exit the truck to do anything but sleep. Inside the van, can cook, crap, dress, sleep,wash up, start the vehicle, run the ac/heat radio and bug out in a flash if needed. I used to hang my bicycle from the ceiling, kept almost everything inside when camping and still space to sleep on a Stearns and Foster twin mattress. I miss those days.
TIP: get one of those scented wax warmers, add Vaseline instead of the wax, once it liquifies dip the cotton balls in the liquid Vaseline. So much easier, faster, & completely permeates the cotton balls. Also could use antibiotic ointment instead of Vaseline for multi-purpose. Most antibiotic ointments are made from a petroleum base just like Vaseline and will burn the same, but has the benefit of being a first aid item as well.
I don't know where you're at or what year this video was made but you had a lot of valid points and I'm living in a truck and yes I have a tent but I'm completely self-sufficient and a lot of things that you said were very relevant to what it's like to actually live out of a vehicle so thank you for your in-depth knowledge of ways to live comfortably enjoy nature
Nice video! Great six points. I'm going to set up a soap & water squirter as you describe - will save both water and soap! I have a long bed Tacoma with a Leer cap (4" over roof line height - great for head room). Use a simple Roll-a-Cot & Thermarest pad for my "sleeping set". The cot has no middle leg - so it fits tight against the side of the truck. I use the same long plastic storage bin you have under my cot, and one or two (depending on gear needs) stackable bins. I like a simple camping mode set-up, yet I can have an empty bed in say 5 minutes for cargo carrying truck use. A RTIC 35 qt cooler and small propane stove for food, and two 20liter water containers that have spigots. I run paracord above my screened windows...and my towels and such can be used as sun shields/drapes as needed, and hung for drying too. I have a swivel mount LED light set up at rear of the cap for good interior or tailgate illumination. I find the tailgate serves many roles: table, chair, food prep...so having illumination right there is critical. At times use a 8x12 tarp with two poles as a rear or side mounted sun/rain shelter. I love having the flexibility of a 4x4 truck. Cap off, cap on, cargo, or camping - it can do it all.
You’re the real deal man. I like the minimalist truck bed 🛏 system set up because you’re right, sometimes you need the bed system out of the way to use the full truck bed. Awesome video
Long time backpacker and new to the car/truck camping life. I think you nailed it with this video. Really great job of covering the essentials and what you've found to work. I couldn't agree more with the minimalist strategy.
Thanks Michael! Yeah, the minimalist lifestyle is so rewarding. I hope others get a chance to experience this way of living, it's really opened my eyes.
Great insight, thank you. I went the minimalist route a few years back when I moved to SE Asia. And have been thinking about an off-road lifestyle when I head back to the US. So was happy to find your channel. Love it!
Great system!!!! My husband has to have his caffeine, so we have an additional 'sub' station with French press/ coffee/ and makings in shoe box plastic container!
You have a nice setup for a solo camper. I went with a High -C camper shell when I truck camped. set it up with two small bunks in a 6.5 foot bed. That way my son and I could go explore. The extra height was nice, and still had a rack setup on top. Former backbacker so no shortage of lightweight equipment. Then I moved on to motorcycle camping, but now I haul a small bike in the bed and use a truck tent when I get to camp and use the motorcycle to explore the surrounding countryside. Of course that means my gear is in the cab of the truck.
Colorado Boon Docking!!! Out of Colorado Springs. Realizing the age of this video, you still provide a lot of useful info. Cold weather camping for me: 2019 F150 SuperCrew w/5.5 bed SPORT w/ ARE cab high shell w/ Bedrug. Cold weather time the shell windows are covered with thin aluminum from Homer’s secured in place via Velcro. Custom built wood bed at front of shell, Mr Buddy heater via 10 foot hose to 20gal tank outside with thermoelectric fan to spread the warmth, (and it does get warm) CO2 detector with shell front window slightly open. Blankets are mostly the moving blankets bought on sale from Harbor Freight. Homer bucket with seat and liners for long distance phone calls?!?! Food grade buckets 3.5 to 5 gal (free-courtesy of local food stores) for water supply for me and dog. 2 additional 5 gal water bags (shower bags) for washing up! Setpower 50 portable fridge powered via HF Predator 2000 (no neighbors= no noise complaints). Various books and/or magazines (no WWW). Better half has map that shows where I will be! Protection is afforded via Glock 40 in 10mm and bear spray! Tarps with homemade telescoping poles sourced from Homer’s provide overhead shelter and wind block! When done: if I trucked it in, I trucked it out! Leave no trace!
Thanks Buddy! Look forward to hanging out this summer. I switched cameras (again) to a more compact model. I picked up a Canon GX9 - fits in my pocket as opposed to the bigger camera I had which was really bulky. I like it, still learning all the features. Really pleased with it.
Good advice. However, two things that make a difference between an enjoyable experience vs a miserable one are showers and toilets. I LOVE the shower rig you mentioned, but I didn't see anything about a good toilet solution. Personally, I use a cheap little potty shelter tent and inside I place a homemade urinal alongside a hospital toilet chair I found at a garage sale. Works ok for a campsite...a whole lot better than using a bucket...and if you have females in the group, they will love you for it. But...those items are rather bulky so transport is an issue. What do you suggest?
Stumbled upon your channel. Just got a TRD OR DCLB. Trying to figure out how to set it up for long term living and this is great information. Without having to buy a trailer, I can now bring my home with me when working seasonal jobs.
I added a 65 qt Whynter Fridge/freezer to my system. It will run off the Tacoma inverter outlet while driving and will automatically switch to my secondary battery when truck is off. It only draws 4- 5 amps when running. You should check them out, they have smaller models.
A realistic, affordable outfit for truck camping. I e watched a lot of videos on overland/normal truck camping rigs and its cool and all but when you start adding up the dollars its ridiculously expensive. Awesome video, thank you for the info!
I agree forget the rack and all the other camping junk. all you need is the truck you have , a shell, then build a sleeping platform. can hit the road and see what your really going to need . not going to need 90% of the junk in the trunk
Recently, I had been rear ended twice last month. Now, I’m a little afraid to drive. I thought a truck can give me more protection in case of getting hit again. That is why I just bought Taco SR RWD with Tonneau hard flip up cover. But now I think I should have 4WD and truck cap for over landing ( maybe not in Florida?) and camping. Thank you so much. It’s been very educational watching your UA-cam. Yama
Old money saving tip from the countryside - no need to make/buy Firestarters, simply use a candle in the fire until it gets going. Can even use something like cheap tea-lights, and as you don't need them for long each day they will last ages.
Cool channel man. Doing it well. Subbed for sure. My truck includes my hammock, it's rain fly, and an extra tarp. Having that hammock, in addition to a plush chair, is absolutely indispensable for adding to the relaxation of a well built camp.
Excellent video. If you don't have room to carry a chainsaw a hand-held wood saw is super important in the backcountry. Once I was way out of the Sawtooths and a fierce storm came through and fell a lot of trees. One fell across the road that I was on and there were so many trees there's no way to get around. being able to saw through a tree and also have a towing rope to pull the tree out of the way. Luckily my 04 Tacoma went right over the top of the tree and I was able to escape. Peace in the backcountry.
I just subscribed. I just finished the sleeper bed / storage platform on my '04 Tacoma last weekend. I'm also 6' tall and I fit quite nicely in my 5 ft bed. I also built it so I have the ability to extend the bed out on to the tailgate when I have company. I bought one of the truck tents to keep us out of the weather. Great info. Thanks for sharing.
Yeah, there's just something about the simplicity of having a smaller setup which I love. Definitely makes it easier to get to those hard to reach spots not having a trailer!
I gave a thumbs up because this is a great way to get out there....However, for me, a truck canopy that low forces me to pretzel myself every time I gat in and out. better to take a medium sized tent and a cot with a good thick self inflating pad. If I can't get sitting headroom from a cot, it's a No Go setup.
Little late to the party but check out Chargetech! They make battery packs that have a 120 plug and up to 54000mah. I have mine plugged into my truck bed outlet so it charges when I drive. Can run my fans and my 1200 lumen led light for well over 8 hours and use about half a charge on my 27,000mah powerbank
Thanks for the tips, I was glad to see I’m on track to your recommendations! You mentioned wanting to add lights to your top rack. I added two $20 solar outdoor security LED motion lights to my rack, that can easily be turned on by hand too. Or, use the motion sensor, and know when the bears walk by! The same kind you’d mount on say a shed. They last about two hours at a charge, are super bright and are great for setting up camp at night etc. They are so simple, because they don’t require any wires or power connections. All the best to you!
Hey Jonathan, thank you for the informative comment! I'm actually back in KS right now doing a custom re-build of my sleeping quarters and I'll be tackling the light issue this weekend. Do you mind sharing where you picked up your solar LED motion lights? I'd like to check them out!! Thanks!
Colorado Backcountry Adventures I purchased the “Sunforce” LEDs from Amazon to use for one project, but repurposed them for my truck camper. There are so many choices that might work better for you. If you go to Amazon and search for “solar motion sensor outdoor lights” you’ll have dozens of choices and sizes. Here’s a link to a photo. By he way, my platform bed and drawer can be removed in about 5 minutes. The totes and water slide in as well. instagram.com/p/Bd_w2SkhKfO/
Colorado Backcountry Adventures There are some really good compact much lower profile solar lights. I’m near Yosemite, give a shout out if you come this way.
Sounds good, Jonathan. I am tentatively planning to be in that area over by Driggs, ID this Fall so if I make it out that way then I'll get in touch with you on IG before I depart so we can set something up. Would be cool to meet up and go truck camping!
What do you do when you get ready to sleep about closing the tailgate & camper top? TIA. Also, thank you for covering everything possible to be out there comfortable.
If you have room in the engine compartment put another battery in there with a switch to connect one battery at a time to the engine charging system. use one to power your devices and when you move to another location start the truck, switch the battery to the one with a low charge and let your truck recharge it while on the road. That way you will always have one at full charge and if you do have a decent solar panel it can power you during the day and one of the batteries during the night and you will still have a fully charged one to start your truck. Also do you know your laptop will work fine with a cigarette lighter plug wired to your power input to the computer. All computers have a DC power limiting circuit built into them you just need to get the polarity right eliminating the need to use a converter which drains a battery far faster switching the power from DC to AC.
Thanks for the video. In the process of buying my truck camper and look forward to getting out on the road. This video helped me get my necessities list going.
Just an fyi, I bought a huge 80 amp hour batter for my Taco (TRD) and I can run camp lights, charge electronics with the built in plug in the bed and don't have to turn on my truck for several hours.
Just some things to try for 3 season shower 6+" pvc pipe for shower, can add bike tube stem &fill hole paint black, mount on rack, next a Sven saw or Silky sawing is much better than chopping, Eastwing is bulletproof & affordable, have you done vid on why the TRD?
hey man, you said you didn't have a cell phone, i cancelled mine too after a friend told me about freedom pop. you do have to pay to turn off automatic top off but after that i haven't spend anything on it. i get 500 text, 500 mb, and 200 talk. and it works on wifi even if you're not in a coverage area. it's free, so i figured i'd mention it. they do offer services much much cheaper than other companies. just biggest advice is to downgrade at the end of your free trial and turn off automatic top off. you can renew the amount you paid to turn off top off (doesn't cost extra).
Great advise, I appreciate your hard work and sharing with us your thoughts of how to camp in a truck. I'll be driving from Calgary, Canada 🇨🇦 to Santiago del Estero in Argentina and I'm in the process of planning and organizing the vehicle. Regards, Victor
Very compact and To The Point information about camping. Hats off to you buddy. We would appreciate if you make another video about ur Power setup- extra battery and inverter that you use
That setup is awesome... Great information, very informative... My only recommended piece of gear would be a Silky Bigboy 2000... Other than that you have a great system. Backpacking gear is a compact and lightweight... Also check out a Helinox chair, it weighs 2 lbs can hold up to 325 lbs and is 1/3 the size... Thanks for sharing.
Thank you for all the useful information. You seem to have it down and it really works well for you. I have an ARE insulated cap coming in soon and that's my first step. Really looking forward to my home away from home, and your minimalist, no nonsense modular mind set really appeals to me !!!! I'll be watching more of your videos for sure !!! Just subscribed !!!
Very nice brother, best part for was leaving the rat race, i retire in a few years and plan on traveling the U.S. with my wife and dog. Obviously I will need a larger rig, we plan on a 4x4 van or box van. Great info , stay safe
Wow! What a set up. I think you have worked out the kinks. I can't wait for the time to come in my life when we can go full time over the road/off the grid and lose the cell phone. I purposely go places where there is no cell service. New subscriber and can't wait to see more.
Thanks Dave for subscribing! I'm in the process of doing a few new videos - one on my budget to travel full time and another video on the gear I carry with me at all times. I'll be posting them in the next week so stay tuned for more videos!
Just out of curiosity the tacoma in the video does it have 4wd, and if not how is it going off the grid. I just recently purchased a 2013 trd sport and my son and I want to go camping, but was told that it wasn't thw truck for that due to it being 2wd.
I was just thinking of what to do on bad weather and you need to keep your stuff dry and accessible. I was thinking under certain circumstances a tent that attaches the back of your rig so you could have a porta potty and /or open area. Other days might not need or want. Just a thought
Great video man! I just sold my Jeep and bought a pick up truck, already designed the camper and everything, and it's because of these videos that I'm (hopefully) ready and excited for it. I'll see down the trail/ road! subbed
Right on, Joaquin! Congrats on the purchase of your truck and enjoy your buildout! I recently wrote a blogpost about the different upgrades I did with my buildout so if you're interested in checking it out then here's the link. Cheers! coloradobackcountryadventures.com/adventure-blog/2017/2/12/buildout-of-2005-toyota-tacoma-4x4-sport-model-w-short-bed
Colorado Backcountry Adventures Thanks man! Also I would like to suggest a video about how you go about traveling and living with your dog, it'll probably be a fun video to shoot and very useful for people who are traveling with their best friends.
That's a great idea! I agree, many people would be interested in ideas on how to travel with their four legged companions. I'll see if I can shoot one in the next week and get it posted.
to utilize something is to use it for something other than its intended or expected purpose, for instance he uses the truck to get around, he utilizes it as living space. but most people just use it interchangeably with use, so I'm probably just being pedantic
Thanks for the recommendation, I have a Yeti 400 on the way with a Boulder solar panel from a buddy of mine who gets them at cost. I look forward to having a secondary battery/power system without having to run my inverter!
I chose an F150 regular cab short box due to it's V8 sound, 6+ foot bed (and it's wider) for the same price during the end of year discounts. XLT with Off road package: tires, locker and 3.73 gears! Awesome unit. Having a mid height topper greatly increases the functionality too, never understood why someone wouldn't go that route... maybe garage clearance issues, didn't know any better, put a priority of looks over functionality... FYI most of Northwestern Canada is "off grid" per his definition.
Colorado Backcountry Adventures I actually bought a 1986 Toyota 4Runner as an adventure rig but it isn't finished. Ideally I would have lifted the F150, installed Raptor rims, about 2" larger tires and a winch. It was such a nice new truck I didn't want to beat it up. Serious off-road adventures in Alaska will definitely do that! For up there an F250 on 37" tires would be ideal.
I have a 5 foot bed on my Nissan Frontier. i have been having a hard time finding a camper for that size and the ones I've found are really expensive. So, I thought about getting a welder do a frame shell in Mexico, I found one guy who can do it for $110.00 bucks. My goal is to live in it so I can focus my income on buying land here in Mexico and rent a RV space rent, I found one for $200a month with electric and water/sewer and being a Mexican citizen I can easily buy land for under $200 a month on payments. Ive been stressing so much at the cost of putting a camper together but after seeing yours I narrowed it down close to your camper and essential requirements to live off it. I lived for 3 months in my pick up, no camper no nothing. I had to stop doing it because I got tired of finding a bathroom and moving all over but soon after that I found out about the bucket bathroom! Duh! I love the idea of having that rack on top to carry extra things and using my roof cab for solar panels. I can deal living in a 5ft tiny camper because I know I'm going to save tons of money and buy my land for a few hundred bucks month and then I can focus on a bigger trailer to live on once I put the concrete down on the land I buy. I've learned a lot about propane and things you can run it for, amazing! You can literally live off the grid in a trailer!
i found that wet weather, over a few days straight (or more) makes it difficult for cooking, dog in the mud, etc .. but sleep like a baby listening to rain storms
Great tips! It's funny because we have basically the same setup with the low cost sleeping platform. Definitely interested in the hygiene aspects you mention. I also have the MSR Pocket Rocket stove, but I want to get a single or dual burner stove for bigger meals. Thanks for the advice!
Thanks Jonathan! I'm planning to put together a video about camp hygiene and get it posted this week. Looks like the weather here is going to be nice after tomorrow so I'll plan to get a video posted before Friday. Hope your weekend has been a good one!
Stumbled across your channel and I must say, I really enjoy the information. Great info, recommendations and explanations. I'm from Colorado as well and I recently picked up a Tacoma and have plans of doing exactly what you are doing. Look forward to watching the rest of your videos.
I am so excited that I stumbled across your video. I'm in Australia and regularly car camp (26 and haven't been in a tent in 6 years). Your vehicle camp is almost identical to ours and I was wondering how you combat the issue of storing wood, fuel, rubbish and water when you are on the road. We are thinking of utilising the roof space but would love your input as we seem to be on the same wave length in terms of how we are set up! We travel with our Golden Retriever too so any dog suggestions would be great. I'm off to check out all your other videos! Thanks in advance!!!
Hi Lynda, thanks for the comment! You are correct, I store all of the items you mentioned above on my roof rack. I also keep a small container of water inside my topper to compliment the 5 gallon Roadshower I have mounted to my roof rack. I typically try to cook meals which don't cause trash, that way I can stay in the backcountry longer and not worry about attracting animals to scented trash. In regards to traveling with a dog, I've found window shades and a battery operated fan work GREAT at keeping your pet cool while you run short errands like going to the store, post office, etc. Also, a good walk before bedtime is always good for my dog. She loves to get a bit of exercise and the opportunity to use the restroom before we lock up for the evening and go to bed. If you have any additional questions then feel free to let me know! I can be reached at Brian@ColoradoBackcountryAdventures.com. Cheers!
I love the idea of just having the necessities and still being able to live comfortably. I can't wait to get started on my setup.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
You're smart to have tossed your cell phone. I got rid of my cell phone about 14 years ago and never looked back. I'm SO glad I did. It's made all the difference in my life. I'm very happy and always upbeat now and I don't worry about being tracked. When I go out I'm totally free and it's such a... well, FREEING feeling. I can't even express how much better off I am with out a cell phone. It's great!
I love when I see guys that actually go! Sounds sarcastic but I know cats with 30k setups that stare at there equipment. This guys spent a couple hundred and is getting after it. Great job man
I hear ya buddy. I so tire of these Overlanding UA-cam channels that are in reality all faked and scripted non-sense. Those channels are all about trying to get you to Buy Outdoor Junk. The reason I want to spend as much time in the back country is to get away from Materialism and this Screwed up world. I dont want nor do I need to take all that expensive crap with me to enjoy nature. Ill be honest the most peaceful and contented dudes I have seen in the back country are those types that have very very little. Some people would call them Hobos or indignant even. But there those dudes are with that million mile wide smile and eyes that look like deep pools. It's not what you spend on your rig or your gear. it is the fact that you actually use those things up. Wear them out through Experience......
You shouldn't bother watching those guys
@@evopwrmods The smiles and the eyes..lol..Now I'm convinced!!
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
... "The More You Know, The Less You Carry". Mors Kochanski
Truck camping is hard to beat if you plan to take the path less followed, literally. As an old backpacker, I already own the lightweight, compact gear that makes the truck practical. But if starting from scratch and sticking to campsites a contractors or conversion van is a better option. The pass-through feature of vans and RV's is a total game changer. Crawling into a pickup truck bed works when your're young and camping solo but its a tight fit for a couple and condensation can ruin a nights sleep. Plus, you'll need to exit the truck to do anything but sleep. Inside the van, can cook, crap, dress, sleep,wash up, start the vehicle, run the ac/heat radio and bug out in a flash if needed. I used to hang my bicycle from the ceiling, kept almost everything inside when camping and still space to sleep on a Stearns and Foster twin mattress. I miss those days.
Great Vid but, you forgot a Canopy or Tarp, they come in handy for shade , wind break or ground barriers
TIP: get one of those scented wax warmers, add Vaseline instead of the wax, once it liquifies dip the cotton balls in the liquid Vaseline. So much easier, faster, & completely permeates the cotton balls.
Also could use antibiotic ointment instead of Vaseline for multi-purpose. Most antibiotic ointments are made from a petroleum base just like Vaseline and will burn the same, but has the benefit of being a first aid item as well.
I don't know where you're at or what year this video was made but you had a lot of valid points and I'm living in a truck and yes I have a tent but I'm completely self-sufficient and a lot of things that you said were very relevant to what it's like to actually live out of a vehicle so thank you for your in-depth knowledge of ways to live comfortably enjoy nature
Nice video! Great six points. I'm going to set up a soap & water squirter as you describe - will save both water and soap!
I have a long bed Tacoma with a Leer cap (4" over roof line height - great for head room). Use a simple Roll-a-Cot & Thermarest pad for my "sleeping set". The cot has no middle leg - so it fits tight against the side of the truck. I use the same long plastic storage bin you have under my cot, and one or two (depending on gear needs) stackable bins. I like a simple camping mode set-up, yet I can have an empty bed in say 5 minutes for cargo carrying truck use. A RTIC 35 qt cooler and small propane stove for food, and two 20liter water containers that have spigots. I run paracord above my screened windows...and my towels and such can be used as sun shields/drapes as needed, and hung for drying too.
I have a swivel mount LED light set up at rear of the cap for good interior or tailgate illumination. I find the tailgate serves many roles: table, chair, food prep...so having illumination right there is critical.
At times use a 8x12 tarp with two poles as a rear or side mounted sun/rain shelter.
I love having the flexibility of a 4x4 truck. Cap off, cap on, cargo, or camping - it can do it all.
You’re the real deal man. I like the minimalist truck bed 🛏 system set up because you’re right, sometimes you need the bed system out of the way to use the full truck bed. Awesome video
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
Love that bigfoot sticker on the side of the truck 👍
We're shopping for a camper shell. I told my son that the 1st sticker on it is going to be Sasquatch. 😁
You are direct and to the point. Without straying from the topic. Interesting.
Love the Sasquatch hiking sticker!
Long time backpacker and new to the car/truck camping life. I think you nailed it with this video. Really great job of covering the essentials and what you've found to work. I couldn't agree more with the minimalist strategy.
Thanks Michael! Yeah, the minimalist lifestyle is so rewarding. I hope others get a chance to experience this way of living, it's really opened my eyes.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
I really appreciate your simple approach to the lifestyle. Many people spend too much time on the frills. This was very helpful
Sweet video I am 5-11 with a 5.5 ft bed glad to know it's no issue to sleep diagonal
Getting ready to do the full time off grid thing myself, so far your set up is what I will be using. Thank you for sharing.
You can utilize “use” in place of utilize; it uses less syllables-keeping true to minimalism. Just teasing-great video!
Somebody learned a new word, lol. It seems to be an epidemic on UA-cam, kind of like these people that begin every sentence with "so", arrrgh!
As long as he doesn’t say like every 6 words I’m fine.
Agreed!
I share that (aka 'exact/same') opinion.
Great insight, thank you. I went the minimalist route a few years back when I moved to SE Asia. And have been thinking about an off-road lifestyle when I head back to the US. So was happy to find your channel. Love it!
Great system!!!! My husband has to have his caffeine, so we have an additional 'sub' station with French press/ coffee/ and makings in shoe box plastic container!
For a lighter-weight option, you should check out the aeropress. I really don't do anything overnight without it, whether it's work or personal trip.
You have a nice setup for a solo camper. I went with a High -C camper shell when I truck camped. set it up with two small bunks in a 6.5 foot bed. That way my son and I could go explore. The extra height was nice, and still had a rack setup on top. Former backbacker so no shortage of lightweight equipment. Then I moved on to motorcycle camping, but now I haul a small bike in the bed and use a truck tent when I get to camp and use the motorcycle to explore the surrounding countryside. Of course that means my gear is in the cab of the truck.
Colorado Boon Docking!!! Out of Colorado Springs. Realizing the age of this video, you still provide a lot of useful info. Cold weather camping for me: 2019 F150 SuperCrew w/5.5 bed SPORT w/ ARE cab high shell w/ Bedrug. Cold weather time the shell windows are covered with thin aluminum from Homer’s secured in place via Velcro. Custom built wood bed at front of shell, Mr Buddy heater via 10 foot hose to 20gal tank outside with thermoelectric fan to spread the warmth, (and it does get warm) CO2 detector with shell front window slightly open. Blankets are mostly the moving blankets bought on sale from Harbor Freight. Homer bucket with seat and liners for long distance phone calls?!?! Food grade buckets 3.5 to 5 gal (free-courtesy of local food stores) for water supply for me and dog. 2 additional 5 gal water bags (shower bags) for washing up! Setpower 50 portable fridge powered via HF Predator 2000 (no neighbors= no noise complaints). Various books and/or magazines (no WWW). Better half has map that shows where I will be! Protection is afforded via Glock 40 in 10mm and bear spray! Tarps with homemade telescoping poles sourced from Homer’s provide overhead shelter and wind block! When done: if I trucked it in, I trucked it out! Leave no trace!
Great audio, great video, but most importantly great information. This is the kinds of video that gets views my friend
Thanks Buddy! Look forward to hanging out this summer. I switched cameras (again) to a more compact model. I picked up a Canon GX9 - fits in my pocket as opposed to the bigger camera I had which was really bulky. I like it, still learning all the features. Really pleased with it.
Colorado Backcountry Adventures it works great!!
Thanks so much for your Great camping tipps. You have no idea how much you help us dummies from the big city. Thanks so much...
Good advice. However, two things that make a difference between an enjoyable experience vs a miserable one are showers and toilets. I LOVE the shower rig you mentioned, but I didn't see anything about a good toilet solution. Personally, I use a cheap little potty shelter tent and inside I place a homemade urinal alongside a hospital toilet chair I found at a garage sale. Works ok for a campsite...a whole lot better than using a bucket...and if you have females in the group, they will love you for it. But...those items are rather bulky so transport is an issue. What do you suggest?
Full-time live-aboard since 2003.
Poop -- on a newspaper, bag it.
.
Pee -- in a laundry detergent jug.
Knock the spout on a sidewalk for a 2" opening.
Dig a hole, poop in it, cover it up. Simple.
Stumbled upon your channel. Just got a TRD OR DCLB. Trying to figure out how to set it up for long term living and this is great information. Without having to buy a trailer, I can now bring my home with me when working seasonal jobs.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
The shovel is a requisite for a camp fire. So is a bucket and water, as parks generally require that fires be 'drowned'
I added a 65 qt Whynter Fridge/freezer to my system. It will run off the Tacoma inverter outlet while driving and will automatically switch to my secondary battery when truck is off. It only draws 4- 5 amps when running. You should check them out, they have smaller models.
I'd be interested in a 35qt or comparable size so I'll see what Whynter has in that size. Thanks for the recommendation!
A realistic, affordable outfit for truck camping. I e watched a lot of videos on overland/normal truck camping rigs and its cool and all but when you start adding up the dollars its ridiculously expensive. Awesome video, thank you for the info!
I agree forget the rack and all the other camping junk. all you need is the truck you have , a shell, then build a sleeping platform. can hit the road and see what your really going to need . not going to need 90% of the junk in the trunk
Recently, I had been rear ended twice last month. Now, I’m a little afraid to drive. I thought a truck can give me more protection in case of getting hit again. That is why I just bought Taco SR RWD with Tonneau hard flip up cover. But now I think I should have 4WD and truck cap for over landing ( maybe not in Florida?) and camping.
Thank you so much. It’s been very educational watching your UA-cam. Yama
Old money saving tip from the countryside - no need to make/buy Firestarters, simply use a candle in the fire until it gets going. Can even use something like cheap tea-lights, and as you don't need them for long each day they will last ages.
Very informative. Thank you. Just setting up my gear and your comments are spot on.
Cool channel man. Doing it well. Subbed for sure.
My truck includes my hammock, it's rain fly, and an extra tarp. Having that hammock, in addition to a plush chair, is absolutely indispensable for adding to the relaxation of a well built camp.
very informative. I purchased your plans for the bed extension a while back adapted to my f150 crew cab 4x4 with the same topper you have
Excellent video. If you don't have room to carry a chainsaw a hand-held wood saw is super important in the backcountry. Once I was way out of the Sawtooths and a fierce storm came through and fell a lot of trees. One fell across the road that I was on and there were so many trees there's no way to get around. being able to saw through a tree and also have a towing rope to pull the tree out of the way. Luckily my 04 Tacoma went right over the top of the tree and I was able to escape. Peace in the backcountry.
Like the firestarter/napalm hack. Thumbs up!
I just subscribed. I just finished the sleeper bed / storage platform on my '04 Tacoma last weekend. I'm also 6' tall and I fit quite nicely in my 5 ft bed. I also built it so I have the ability to extend the bed out on to the tailgate when I have company. I bought one of the truck tents to keep us out of the weather. Great info. Thanks for sharing.
Had the class A's, C's, tow campers, tents, and truck campers but still love truck cap camping!
Yeah, there's just something about the simplicity of having a smaller setup which I love. Definitely makes it easier to get to those hard to reach spots not having a trailer!
Very thoughtful and clear. Borrowing many of your ideas, the first one cutting some 2x6s and a 4x8x1/2 plywood for a bed cot. Thanks.
I gave a thumbs up because this is a great way to get out there....However, for me, a truck canopy that low forces me to pretzel myself every time I gat in and out. better to take a medium sized tent and a cot with a good thick self inflating pad. If I can't get sitting headroom from a cot, it's a No Go setup.
Awesome video, great information newbies and veterans alike ! Thanks for taking the time to share this with us .
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
Thank you!!!!! It was hard for me to find someone camping in a Tacoma short bed!! I'm excited to do my setup fairly soon!
I appreciate the tip on the squirting water bottle for soap. I will definitely add this to my setup. Thank you.
Thanks, Brian!!! Very helpful as I prepare to go on road full time!!!
Great video I have a short bed Toyota Tacoma and you have given me a bunch of great ideas I am going camping in May thank you very much.
Effective setup and well delivered presentation. Love the GPS texting that will be moving up my list. Thanks Brian
Little late to the party but check out Chargetech! They make battery packs that have a 120 plug and up to 54000mah. I have mine plugged into my truck bed outlet so it charges when I drive. Can run my fans and my 1200 lumen led light for well over 8 hours and use about half a charge on my 27,000mah powerbank
Thanks for the tips, I was glad to see I’m on track to your recommendations! You mentioned wanting to add lights to your top rack. I added two $20 solar outdoor security LED motion lights to my rack, that can easily be turned on by hand too. Or, use the motion sensor, and know when the bears walk by! The same kind you’d mount on say a shed. They last about two hours at a charge, are super bright and are great for setting up camp at night etc. They are so simple, because they don’t require any wires or power connections. All the best to you!
Hey Jonathan, thank you for the informative comment! I'm actually back in KS right now doing a custom re-build of my sleeping quarters and I'll be tackling the light issue this weekend. Do you mind sharing where you picked up your solar LED motion lights? I'd like to check them out!! Thanks!
Colorado Backcountry Adventures I purchased the “Sunforce” LEDs from Amazon to use for one project, but repurposed them for my truck camper. There are so many choices that might work better for you. If you go to Amazon and search for “solar motion sensor outdoor lights” you’ll have dozens of choices and sizes. Here’s a link to a photo. By he way, my platform bed and drawer can be removed in about 5 minutes. The totes and water slide in as well. instagram.com/p/Bd_w2SkhKfO/
Awesome, thanks Jonathan! I like your truck set up and followed your IG channel. Look forward to seeing your posts!
Colorado Backcountry Adventures There are some really good compact much lower profile solar lights. I’m near Yosemite, give a shout out if you come this way.
Sounds good, Jonathan. I am tentatively planning to be in that area over by Driggs, ID this Fall so if I make it out that way then I'll get in touch with you on IG before I depart so we can set something up. Would be cool to meet up and go truck camping!
What do you do when you get ready to sleep about closing the tailgate & camper top? TIA. Also, thank you for covering everything possible to be out there comfortable.
Thanks 🙏🏼 Happy Trails Taco 😎
So glad I found you! Thanks for all the details (exact brands + why); so helpful!
If you have room in the engine compartment put another battery in there with a switch to connect one battery at a time to the engine charging system. use one to power your devices and when you move to another location start the truck, switch the battery to the one with a low charge and let your truck recharge it while on the road. That way you will always have one at full charge and if you do have a decent solar panel it can power you during the day and one of the batteries during the night and you will still have a fully charged one to start your truck. Also do you know your laptop will work fine with a cigarette lighter plug wired to your power input to the computer. All computers have a DC power limiting circuit built into them you just need to get the polarity right eliminating the need to use a converter which drains a battery far faster switching the power from DC to AC.
cooked on both the pocket rocket and that coleman grill for years.. Msr pocket rocket is Awesome stove! perfect for backpacking.
Thanks for the video. In the process of buying my truck camper and look forward to getting out on the road. This video helped me get my necessities list going.
Excellent. Exactly what I am looking for…thank you Bob
Just an fyi, I bought a huge 80 amp hour batter for my Taco (TRD) and I can run camp lights, charge electronics with the built in plug in the bed and don't have to turn on my truck for several hours.
Super informative video! I’ve just started truck camping in my Ford F150 with a hard top camper shell!
Just some things to try for 3 season shower 6+" pvc pipe for shower, can add bike tube stem &fill hole paint black, mount on rack, next a Sven saw or Silky sawing is much better than chopping, Eastwing is bulletproof & affordable, have you done vid on why the TRD?
In my opinion, this was the most helpful video I've seen yet. Thanks 👍
LOVED the squirt bottle of soapy water. Cool Video!
I like your style! The bike pump water heater is something I've not seen before. Need to look into one.
hey man, you said you didn't have a cell phone, i cancelled mine too after a friend told me about freedom pop. you do have to pay to turn off automatic top off but after that i haven't spend anything on it. i get 500 text, 500 mb, and 200 talk. and it works on wifi even if you're not in a coverage area. it's free, so i figured i'd mention it. they do offer services much much cheaper than other companies. just biggest advice is to downgrade at the end of your free trial and turn off automatic top off. you can renew the amount you paid to turn off top off (doesn't cost extra).
Great meeting you today! Chance encounter but really cool to see your set up in person!
Great advise, I appreciate your hard work and sharing with us your thoughts of how to camp in a truck.
I'll be driving from Calgary, Canada 🇨🇦 to Santiago del Estero in Argentina and I'm in the process of planning and organizing the vehicle.
Regards,
Victor
Very compact and To The Point information about camping. Hats off to you buddy. We would appreciate if you make another video about ur Power setup- extra battery and inverter that you use
I like solar motion lights for the roof rack securety
That setup is awesome... Great information, very informative... My only recommended piece of gear would be a Silky Bigboy 2000... Other than that you have a great system. Backpacking gear is a compact and lightweight... Also check out a Helinox chair, it weighs 2 lbs can hold up to 325 lbs and is 1/3 the size... Thanks for sharing.
Good tip for your pocket rocket stove is to cut a coffee can as a heat shield. There's videos showing how.
Thank you for all the useful information. You seem to have it down and it really works well for you. I have an ARE insulated cap coming in soon and that's my first step. Really looking forward to my home away from home, and your minimalist, no nonsense modular mind set really appeals to me !!!! I'll be watching more of your videos for sure !!! Just subscribed !!!
Very nice brother, best part for was leaving the rat race, i retire in a few years and plan on traveling the U.S. with my wife and dog. Obviously I will need a larger rig, we plan on a 4x4 van or box van. Great info , stay safe
7th component, always get a handsome fella like you on your journeys !
Great Set up! I love the utilization of hiking gear
Thanks Jonny DIY!
Wow! What a set up. I think you have worked out the kinks. I can't wait for the time to come in my life when we can go full time over the road/off the grid and lose the cell phone. I purposely go places where there is no cell service. New subscriber and can't wait to see more.
Thanks Dave for subscribing! I'm in the process of doing a few new videos - one on my budget to travel full time and another video on the gear I carry with me at all times. I'll be posting them in the next week so stay tuned for more videos!
Just look at your vid list, OMG it's bing watching time again !!!!!!!!
Excellent video and great information covering the basics (which is what everyone needs). Well done! Scott
I am really digging the simple hacks . Tons of suttle key ideas to keeping simply comfortable . Nice work!
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
Wow that GPS thing is seriously cool. I want to get one of those
I did too until I found out it wouldn't take a chip. Using On-X maps and other programs isn't an option. For $400 it should.
Just out of curiosity the tacoma in the video does it have 4wd, and if not how is it going off the grid. I just recently purchased a 2013 trd sport and my son and I want to go camping, but was told that it wasn't thw truck for that due to it being 2wd.
4wd is obviously nice but, you’d be able to go plenty of places in 2nd. Just be cautious not to get into deep mud or sand.
Right on Bud! I think that's the best setup for sure - platform setup is ideal. Keep on truckin'
Thanks for sharing, Brian. Yes, minimal STUFF maximal LIFE. How about re-using used cooking oil for fire-starter? :)
Excellent setup - THANKS for sharing!
You go Brian! I prefer to live in a home! Mines almost paid for! You should get a Foam Mattress!
I was just thinking of what to do on bad weather and you need to keep your stuff dry and accessible. I was thinking under certain circumstances a tent that attaches the back of your rig so you could have a porta potty and /or open area. Other days might not need or want. Just a thought
Thanks. Nicely done. Picked up some tips.
Great video man! I just sold my Jeep and bought a pick up truck, already designed the camper and everything, and it's because of these videos that I'm (hopefully) ready and excited for it. I'll see down the trail/ road! subbed
Right on, Joaquin! Congrats on the purchase of your truck and enjoy your buildout! I recently wrote a blogpost about the different upgrades I did with my buildout so if you're interested in checking it out then here's the link. Cheers!
coloradobackcountryadventures.com/adventure-blog/2017/2/12/buildout-of-2005-toyota-tacoma-4x4-sport-model-w-short-bed
Colorado Backcountry Adventures Thanks man! Also I would like to suggest a video about how you go about traveling and living with your dog, it'll probably be a fun video to shoot and very useful for people who are traveling with their best friends.
That's a great idea! I agree, many people would be interested in ideas on how to travel with their four legged companions. I'll see if I can shoot one in the next week and get it posted.
the soap and water in a bottle was the biggest thing i would have not thought of.
Look into a folding saw. My Gomboy has done wonders for me.
I like when people say utilize instead of use. Makes them sound smart.
My College English teacher said. When you have to choose between two words, pick the shortest one.
to utilize something is to use it for something other than its intended or expected purpose, for instance he uses the truck to get around, he utilizes it as living space. but most people just use it interchangeably with use, so I'm probably just being pedantic
Rubing alcohol and baby wipes are Also good to help clean up .
Check out the genius boost pro 150, to jump start- also runs a movie player, iPad , smartphone
Thanks for the recommendation, I have a Yeti 400 on the way with a Boulder solar panel from a buddy of mine who gets them at cost. I look forward to having a secondary battery/power system without having to run my inverter!
I chose an F150 regular cab short box due to it's V8 sound, 6+ foot bed (and it's wider) for the same price during the end of year discounts. XLT with Off road package: tires, locker and 3.73 gears! Awesome unit. Having a mid height topper greatly increases the functionality too, never understood why someone wouldn't go that route... maybe garage clearance issues, didn't know any better, put a priority of looks over functionality...
FYI most of Northwestern Canada is "off grid" per his definition.
Sounds like your rig is set up for some awesome adventures!
Colorado Backcountry Adventures I actually bought a 1986 Toyota 4Runner as an adventure rig but it isn't finished. Ideally I would have lifted the F150, installed Raptor rims, about 2" larger tires and a winch. It was such a nice new truck I didn't want to beat it up. Serious off-road adventures in Alaska will definitely do that! For up there an F250 on 37" tires would be ideal.
Lov truck camping thanks for the tips gonna get those things for sure
I have a 5 foot bed on my Nissan Frontier. i have been having a hard time finding a camper for that size and the ones I've found are really expensive. So, I thought about getting a welder do a frame shell in Mexico, I found one guy who can do it for $110.00 bucks. My goal is to live in it so I can focus my income on buying land here in Mexico and rent a RV space rent, I found one for $200a month with electric and water/sewer and being a Mexican citizen I can easily buy land for under $200 a month on payments. Ive been stressing so much at the cost of putting a camper together but after seeing yours I narrowed it down close to your camper and essential requirements to live off it. I lived for 3 months in my pick up, no camper no nothing. I had to stop doing it because I got tired of finding a bathroom and moving all over but soon after that I found out about the bucket bathroom! Duh! I love the idea of having that rack on top to carry extra things and using my roof cab for solar panels. I can deal living in a 5ft tiny camper because I know I'm going to save tons of money and buy my land for a few hundred bucks month and then I can focus on a bigger trailer to live on once I put the concrete down on the land I buy. I've learned a lot about propane and things you can run it for, amazing! You can literally live off the grid in a trailer!
i found that wet weather, over a few days straight (or more) makes it difficult for cooking, dog in the mud, etc .. but sleep like a baby listening to rain storms
How do you waterproof your truck bed during those stormy days?
Great tips! It's funny because we have basically the same setup with the low cost sleeping platform. Definitely interested in the hygiene aspects you mention. I also have the MSR Pocket Rocket stove, but I want to get a single or dual burner stove for bigger meals. Thanks for the advice!
Thanks Jonathan! I'm planning to put together a video about camp hygiene and get it posted this week. Looks like the weather here is going to be nice after tomorrow so I'll plan to get a video posted before Friday. Hope your weekend has been a good one!
@@OffGridBackcountryAdventures LLP
This was an all-around great video! I just bought a 2015 F150 and am wanting to start truck camping. Thanks for the helpful tips!
Great set up in a truck topper camper! I love those insulated A.R.E caps. Thank you for sharing. 👍
Titanium cook ware helps also like the zebra pot
Stumbled across your channel and I must say, I really enjoy the information. Great info, recommendations and explanations. I'm from Colorado as well and I recently picked up a Tacoma and have plans of doing exactly what you are doing. Look forward to watching the rest of your videos.
Hi,
Just read yr comment and couldn’t agree more.
Thought you might like to look at my channel and set up. Like and sun
Cheers
Out There Touring
I am so excited that I stumbled across your video. I'm in Australia and regularly car camp (26 and haven't been in a tent in 6 years). Your vehicle camp is almost identical to ours and I was wondering how you combat the issue of storing wood, fuel, rubbish and water when you are on the road. We are thinking of utilising the roof space but would love your input as we seem to be on the same wave length in terms of how we are set up! We travel with our Golden Retriever too so any dog suggestions would be great. I'm off to check out all your other videos! Thanks in advance!!!
Hi Lynda, thanks for the comment! You are correct, I store all of the items you mentioned above on my roof rack. I also keep a small container of water inside my topper to compliment the 5 gallon Roadshower I have mounted to my roof rack. I typically try to cook meals which don't cause trash, that way I can stay in the backcountry longer and not worry about attracting animals to scented trash. In regards to traveling with a dog, I've found window shades and a battery operated fan work GREAT at keeping your pet cool while you run short errands like going to the store, post office, etc. Also, a good walk before bedtime is always good for my dog. She loves to get a bit of exercise and the opportunity to use the restroom before we lock up for the evening and go to bed. If you have any additional questions then feel free to let me know! I can be reached at Brian@ColoradoBackcountryAdventures.com. Cheers!
@@OffGridBackcountryAdventures by
Try making fire starters using old dryer lint and drip melted candle wax on them. Works great.
Yep, those are great! However, I prefer to use petroleum and cottonballs to make fire starters since I don't normally carry extra candle wax with me.