Personally living out of a camper van is way more interesting to me than “camping” with it. Being able to spend the summer backpacking around the country and having a camper to relax in between hikes sounds amazing!
That’s pretty much my life. I wouldn’t call it “relaxing”, living out of a vehicle is a lot of work, but it’s pretty nice to have hiked through 26 parks in the last year.
I read a great book about a decade ago called "The Circumference of Home," and the author makes a point that - anthropologically - we developed our senses based on our walking speed. That's why we notice so much more when walking as compared to biking or driving. There is something to be said about the meditative aspects and connection to our surroundings that happens at 3mph.
A happy compromise is using my Grand Caravan as a base camp for a “tour of day hikes”. Travel to a different trail every day; hike light & fast for 10 hours and come back to relax & enjoy my minivan basecamp for the night. Wake up and repeat. A great way to experience a lot of those backcountry vistas while accessing all the advantages you mentioned about van life (robust meals, cushy mattress …). Sometimes it’s about mixing it up and trying a different routine. Great video as usual, thanks Stephen.
Others have pointed this out, but a vehicle can be a base camp that turns a backpacking trip into a day hike or a shorter/easier/more comfortable backpacking trip. And I disagree with having to spend 60k+, depending on your needs/interests/skills, you could use an existing vehicle as a base camp/vanlife setup. But still, you're absolutely correct there are some places you can only get to on foot! Great topic for a vid, and love the channel!
Welp, if you have the time and money then why not both? They both have their purposes so no reason to limit yourself to one experience :) Also could use the camper as a staging point and then hike & tent for the hard to reach areas. Nice to get back to a camper and have comfort there, rather than a car and having to drive xx km home. Either way, nice video :) Love your channel!
I worked for an RV dealer for 2 years. We had people buy a two bedroom, two bath house on wheels talking about how much they loooooved camping. I'd just nod my head and smile. Different strokes for different folks.
I do both. My husband and kids are more likely to join me in the van, so that a great option. My more adventurous friends are all in for backpacking. I even love car camping in beautiful places. Backpacking allows access to more places. Van and car camping allow me to share it with more people. It’s all good.
What i love about backpacking is that you only take with you what you take with you... that counts for gear, worries, stress, etc. Camping is still fun, and I do it every year... but "truck camping" with a tent or a camper van or whatever, just doesn't have that same feeling that backpacking to a trail does. That effort, that feeling of being where most people you know will never experience, that knowledge that everything you need to enjoy your weekend (or however long) is right there on your back... there is nothing like it. Though, cold beer in a cooler also counts for a lot...
My favorite places to camp are those where I don't have to hear the noise of machines, any machines, though airplanes are hard to avoid. And another advantage of backpacking is that you can fit into a micro studio apartment that is too small for the average bed.
You would be surprised how many times I had to stop recording this to let 4,5 even 6 airplanes go by. One after another. I’ve never visited such a remote place with so many airplanes
I love how empowering backpacking can be, however, the aches and pains of getting older have pushed me into a built out cargo trailer. Great video, thank you!
We have a camper van and we love that we can take it to the end of the road. Park it. Load up our packs and head off on a backpacking trip. Doesn’t have to be one or the other. It’s the best of both worlds.
Recently I went on a canoe trip and holy moly was it a game changer. I could bring my cast iron dutch oven, an axe, a cooler with food, and I could go deep into the wilderness. I think canoeing is a great middle ground.
My dad bought a used van for 6k and converted it into a reversible diy camper for less than 1000€. He also uses that van for most of his daily car needs. If you're skilled and motivated enough it doesn't have to be a rich people only hobby.
I've had a little travel trailer for seven years. Some years I do more rv camping, some years I do more backpacking. The RV really extends the camping season here in Texas. Summer can be brutal without an AC during mid day.
I do not really see the two as comparable. Backpacking stands alone. Next closest thing is getting on a motorcycle with luggage. Small trails that will get you far away from everything. Van camping is a step up from car camping. Or, a step down(EEH) from RV "camping". A decent car/suv/van can get you fairly deep, but nothing like a good set of legs. I do go back and forth with wanting to sleep in a tent or van. My wallet says I am broke, so my tent it is.
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Agree what others already said - backpacking and camper van. Make a basecamp, hike to some awesome spot to sleep there, then go back to van and move on...
I'm still trying to dial in my car camping setup. I found if weight isn't an issue then you can bring a roll a cot, which will give you a nice platform for a sleeping pad simulating a mattress. I have an eight person tent with steel poles, a large dining canopy, a Coleman two burner stove with a 5lb refillable propane tank, and electrical cookware for if we have a spot with a hookup. If we have a walk in site, we can use folding trailers to walk the gear into the campsite. To me this is the best of both worlds. You are off of the road, but still have the convenience of taking the things you want.
I do van camping and backpacking. Each has its place. When van camping at a first come, first served site I bring an inexpensive tent to hold the spot if I leave for a while.
I used to teach backpacking (back in the day). I even referred to RV’s as Land Maggots. Now, between RA-affected knees, hips, ankles, hands, I can’t. God, I wish I could again. But van life looks appealing. Take a power assisted bike with me and I won’t have to give up my identity with the outdoors. Getting completely away from people may not be as easy, but I can try!
What you really need is a video on roof top tents. Take a Jeep into more rugged places and camp out. Then use it as a base camp to go even farther. That sounds like a possible middle ground that could be worth exploring…
Interesting that a company like VanCraft reached out. I guess they thought there was enough crossover demographic with backpackers? Well, guilty as charged. I haven’t committed to a van yet, but they’re in my feed. Like you mentioned, they’re the ultralight version of a house/RV. Excellent job crafting a story around comparing the two. Setting yourself apart from the crowd yet again.
From my perspective the applications of a van vs a backpack are completely separate. I like both because one is to get your body into and around remote, hard to access areas (backpack), and the other is entirely for covering much longer distances between those areas more comfortably (van) with all the comforts you need without relying on hotels, (sometimes) hookups, restaurants, or any of the other logistics you run into on a road trip. Of course I'd always advocate for getting the pack setup first, and the van is just an extra luxury that maybe down the road is nice plus for people as they get older or just for those with accessibility needs that want to get outside. I know I've meet a good number of packers who are well into retirement and travel from hiking areas all over the country based out of an RV for 6 months of the year, and a nice van to me seems to be not much different in utility than that.
I do both and each has it's own pro's and con. Being older I mean seasoned, I enjoy the comfort of camper camping, but, I really enjoy the solitude of backpacking.
I simply ripped out the front passenger seat of my compact car and built in its stead a wood platform to put my camping mattress (fold down or rip out rear seats). (Measure boot to glove box, it's always enough for even a tall person to stretch out) In place of the rear window shelf I put a platform and that's my kitchen. 100% waterproof. Park anywhere (anywhere a car may park). Perfect base for my backpacking trips. Cheap and relatively fast to build (less than a day, hike more). Only downside: it really only works for single persons since now you won't have a front passenger seat anymore and it definitely only sleeps one. If you have a split rear bench you could keep it to be able to take the occasional passenger.
Bought my Ford Econoline van (5) years ago with 72,000 miles on it, for $7,000. Currently have 118,378. We use it primarily as a Basecamp for our backpacking & mountain biking trips. We built a king size bed in it that converts to a twin. Super comfortable after a backpacking trip. Going from the Backcountry back to the van makes us appreciate both lifestyles. I encourage people that are contemplating buying a van to due your homework & buy something that fits your needs. DON'T get caught up on keeping up with the "Joneses". Vans can cost as much as a house or even a down payment on a house. Don't blow your wad on something that loses value. Plan ahead. Thank you for the video, as always we enjoyed it. 🤙🏻
In the past I owned a boat it was expensive and time consuming. Sold the boat and now will rent a boat here and there but when done don't have to deal with maintenance and storage.
At 68 I am more of a minivan camper. I watch backpacker videos to learn about small light efficient gear.. I carry a cheap tent for saving a spot. Are you really going to leave a $600 tent unattended? You can't take a vehicle into a wilderness area, but you can't pitch a tent anywhere you like either. Say you want to check out a city. There is no right or wrong way to sleep. just a personal choice how to get it done. One system is only better if it suits your needs.
Having a 4Runner setup for Overlanding it gets me into some pretty remote areas, however there are things about Backpacking that are WAY better. Both for me, but prefer the purity, simplicity of Backpacking👍
Steve, I have never used a camper van, but I think I prefer backpacking. I loved that line about "gear envy". We are constantly upgrading to lighter options. We don't have chairs yet, though.
I'm still wondering how any normal person can get over the 60000 - 80000 initial gear cost plus another several thousand dollars to get it tight and right and still say its better. Nothing is better if it costs that much....a cabin in the mountains could cost that or less. Eventually lazy will take over and you will end up at a noisy campground with clueless people and drunks on vacation. Hell to the no. Simplicity and low cost rules all. I'll argue till I die that ultralight backpacking with the finest gear is THE cheapest hoppy. A good fishing rod could cost more than my gear...not even close. Peace everyone - get a newby out of van life
60-80k is for a super high end van. I got one for 15k fully built out and I needed to buy another car anyway because my old one was crapping out. It sounds like you’re just pretentious and gate keep-y about the outdoors which in my option is the opposite of what the outdoors should be about.
U have to go check out the Granite Creek area in Wyoming, just outside Alpine, Your options are limitless on a 10 mile scenic drive to Granite Creek campground with limitless options for boondocking on the way. Leave a canopy set up and no one will take your site.
@@coolbreezeoutdoors7177 I backpacked in the Gros Ventre Wilderness last year. Stayed at the granite creek campground after the trip, very beautiful area that not many people know about, since everyone flocks to the Winds or the Tetons.
@@steveh5169 I was out there for all of June 2021, Yellowstone camping and backpacking, then went south to Alpine and over to Granite Creek for a few nights. The entire area is absolutely mind melting. I’ll be back again next year for June
You mentioned losing your site. You can also use a rugged trailer and as long as you secure it, come back to your trailer still there if you need supplies.
Vanlife and the extra space is great if you want to do something else than hiking on your trip. You can take a surfboard or a mountainbike with you, something you don't really do if you go out backpacking. But I have to say that I prefer sleeping in a tent over a van, because you can spend the night in very cool places. Btw, if you are looking for some cool backpacking recipes, check out Chef Corso on UA-cam. He has some really tasty recipes, which are nice if you get bored of the freeze dried meals. :)
Instead of paying so much for a camper van, those interested might want to try a teardrop camper. They are much less expensive and you can rent them to try them out too. If you really want to go cheaper, and you have the motivation and inclination (and a few tools), you can build your own teardrop camper. I built mine for about $3500 (pre-pandemic price). My husband and I love to backpack but we also love to go camping using our 4x8 teardrop camper. It all depends on what experience you are looking for but my point it, you can have both available to you without taking out a loan.
I guess I’ll vote for both. I live full time off grid, in my van on my own land with woods and a creek. I take my backpack and head elsewhere for a change of scenery. So I get both full time. I should have done this decades ago.
I car camp at trail head because I am lazy to set up and take down my tent just for one night. Backpacking into back country to spend a few nights is the only option because vehicles can’t be driven on trail. If I want to spend my last night at trail head I’d be sleeping in the back of my suv. I thought about getting a van outfitted but I can sleep just fine in my car.
The adventure van market can be as simple as tossing a futon into an old work van or as extravagant as hotel ammenities on wheels. I would have liked more information on combining the two. For instance, using a van to drive to the trail head and carry extra water and meals while section hiking, day hiking, or on long weekend hikes.
For me, finding space to park that is private, has a view, and some hiking nearby takes a lot of research. I can find a place to go backpacking for the weekend within a few minutes.
Enter the world of 'Overlanding'. Come out to CO and we'll get you hooked up. A basecamp that is way more terrain capable than a van, and darned near as comfortable as a van.
I wish they would sell more Volkswagen van sized vehicles. They have micro RVs in Asia and Europe that are a lot more practical. The problem with RVs is parking them at home. A lot of cities won't let you street park.
My sister and I plan to tent camp until we get too old and sore to sleep on the ground. Then we want a teardrop trailer. However, my sister won't sleep in a tent in grizzly country. When we finally get up that way, we would have to have a camper or van. Good to know we can rent one. Thanks!
As a child, me and my family traveled in a motorhome. It was fun, or in a small cottage🙌🏻 I'm car-free (no driver's license), camping looks interesting😍 Maybe someday ☺️ Your videos are good😋
Another nice video! 2:49 Do you have to keep eggs in a refrigerator, never thought it was true? That's really enjoying while camping or hiking. All the eggs we buy in Europe are from real chicken and are protected by nature itself.
I have a simple suv no build I love plus I sleep on the floor I hate high beds and a extreme minimalist it works for me a pocket rocket stove a small ice chest and one high low bag with everything I own in life it also house my tent I wouldn’t change it for this world
It's like... Two completely different things, two completely different activities. The camper van is your mean of travel and your "base of operation" so to speak. You use it to go on surfing or rock climbing trips. You can even go somewhere far with the camper van and then from there go on small backpacking trips. Personally I have a small camper van (VW Transporter) to go on climbing trips.
another well done video. I have an RV been across the country. yes they are convenient but as you also indicated there are variables that are a hassle. I have been backpacking for 30+ years. You can dial in your get to have many comforts with a minor weight penalty. base weight of 22 lbs including bear canister. I prefer backpacking.
I see that Hubba Hubba in the background! I hope you will review it; I can't find a single one UA-cam for the new version. Just picked one up a few months ago myself and have only camped a couple nights with it.
I think you left out camping in the back of a pickup. In my mind it is the happy medium between van and backpacking. I say this because with a shell over the pickup bed and with a mattress in the back one, or I have been able go camping a bit further then I have been able in a van, with the simplicity of backpacking.
I vote vancamp over hiking. I prefer semi-primitive camping without a lot of fluff or crowded campgrounds. I feel safer sleeping behind locked doors as a solo traveler. Vanlife is a much easier way to explore nature for most people. Backpacking is only for the very fit. Also a very good reliable van can be purchased for average $20 to 25k, not 60k; maybe less if someone is able to maintain it mechanically.
Maybe you could do a hybrid video, Steve. I'm considering migrating to vanlife as a base, with backpacking mixed in. Are they too similar? Will vanlife be comfortable and different enough that I won't get sick of both? Maybe you can give some insight...
You can get a used van for about 6k and then build it out slowly. Buying a prebuilt is a costly/risky investment. Do it slowly, do it thoughtfully and let it expand your backpacking range.
Of course, the best option would be to pack your back pack in your camper! Then you have the best of both Worlds! If of course you have the money to do that!
I too love backpacking but there are those that may lack the physical ability to hit the trail. I've tried rv camping in a small trailer and found it wasn't for me, at least in a trailer. Years ago, I had a vw bus and would camp out of that. Pretty primitive by today's standards. Still would rather be on trail when given a choice.
It's funny, it must be trucking but I don't care at all about level ground. As long as my head is above my feet, I've slept on 6% grades. I definitely understand why people would care, but if the bed is cozy and is below my angle of repose then I'm good.
I debated between a van and trailer for me AK trip. The rental vans only allowed for 100 mi a day. So wasn’t worth it in the end even for a small weekend trip. Would be better to just bring my Jeep and get a cheap motel or camp.
Love the topic of this video. It seems like a no-brainer to do but it's the first I've seen. Why not both? haha I love backpacking, for all the reasons you shared. Then, going to vanlife just makes everything more luxurious, in comparison. I haven't done vanlife yet but it'll be in my future!
the weather is the big one !! i would rather sit in a van than a tent in crazy weather !! plus i feel more secure in a van than in a tent, there are heaps of crazy people out there that want to hurt you and animals that want to eat you !
great video, but you forgot to mention people who simple can't backpack easily. handicapped and the elderly come to mind. the camper van can help anybody who loves the outdoors to be a part of it even if their body can't hike the miles. thanks
Well…can you really compare it? Sure, walk take longer but you can almost go anywhere. A van sure can’t. And if you look for the almost anywhere (Unimog) those are massive (and not cheap for sure). But one is for truly long distance (walk the Sahara…) and the other is pure freedom.
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Personally living out of a camper van is way more interesting to me than “camping” with it. Being able to spend the summer backpacking around the country and having a camper to relax in between hikes sounds amazing!
That’s pretty much my life. I wouldn’t call it “relaxing”, living out of a vehicle is a lot of work, but it’s pretty nice to have hiked through 26 parks in the last year.
I read a great book about a decade ago called "The Circumference of Home," and the author makes a point that - anthropologically - we developed our senses based on our walking speed. That's why we notice so much more when walking as compared to biking or driving. There is something to be said about the meditative aspects and connection to our surroundings that happens at 3mph.
A happy compromise is using my Grand Caravan as a base camp for a “tour of day hikes”. Travel to a different trail every day; hike light & fast for 10 hours and come back to relax & enjoy my minivan basecamp for the night. Wake up and repeat. A great way to experience a lot of those backcountry vistas while accessing all the advantages you mentioned about van life (robust meals, cushy mattress …).
Sometimes it’s about mixing it up and trying a different routine. Great video as usual, thanks Stephen.
Others have pointed this out, but a vehicle can be a base camp that turns a backpacking trip into a day hike or a shorter/easier/more comfortable backpacking trip. And I disagree with having to spend 60k+, depending on your needs/interests/skills, you could use an existing vehicle as a base camp/vanlife setup. But still, you're absolutely correct there are some places you can only get to on foot! Great topic for a vid, and love the channel!
Welp, if you have the time and money then why not both? They both have their purposes so no reason to limit yourself to one experience :) Also could use the camper as a staging point and then hike & tent for the hard to reach areas. Nice to get back to a camper and have comfort there, rather than a car and having to drive xx km home.
Either way, nice video :) Love your channel!
This is exactly my retirement plan, until then I’ll keep saving for a van.
I worked for an RV dealer for 2 years. We had people buy a two bedroom, two bath house on wheels talking about how much they loooooved camping. I'd just nod my head and smile. Different strokes for different folks.
I do both. My husband and kids are more likely to join me in the van, so that a great option. My more adventurous friends are all in for backpacking. I even love car camping in beautiful places. Backpacking allows access to more places. Van and car camping allow me to share it with more people. It’s all good.
What i love about backpacking is that you only take with you what you take with you... that counts for gear, worries, stress, etc. Camping is still fun, and I do it every year... but "truck camping" with a tent or a camper van or whatever, just doesn't have that same feeling that backpacking to a trail does. That effort, that feeling of being where most people you know will never experience, that knowledge that everything you need to enjoy your weekend (or however long) is right there on your back... there is nothing like it. Though, cold beer in a cooler also counts for a lot...
You are right on all counts. The best part of the van was a coke drink after days on the trail. What I really want is a base camp van.
My favorite places to camp are those where I don't have to hear the noise of machines, any machines, though airplanes are hard to avoid. And another advantage of backpacking is that you can fit into a micro studio apartment that is too small for the average bed.
You would be surprised how many times I had to stop recording this to let 4,5 even 6 airplanes go by. One after another. I’ve never visited such a remote place with so many airplanes
I love how empowering backpacking can be, however, the aches and pains of getting older have pushed me into a built out cargo trailer.
Great video, thank you!
We have a camper van and we love that we can take it to the end of the road. Park it. Load up our packs and head off on a backpacking trip. Doesn’t have to be one or the other. It’s the best of both worlds.
Recently I went on a canoe trip and holy moly was it a game changer. I could bring my cast iron dutch oven, an axe, a cooler with food, and I could go deep into the wilderness. I think canoeing is a great middle ground.
Totally agree we van camp, backpack, bikepack and kayak camp each is great in thier own way!
Yes canoe and raft camping will get you deep in the wilderness with a LOT of comfort. For sure!
I'm a van lifer who backpacks, and I think they are complementary. In fact, I think van life actually enhances the backpacking experience.
Coke drinks after a days on the trail was the best part of having the van!
The cost difference alone makes these completely different beasts. "Van life" is only for the rich.
My dad bought a used van for 6k and converted it into a reversible diy camper for less than 1000€. He also uses that van for most of his daily car needs. If you're skilled and motivated enough it doesn't have to be a rich people only hobby.
I've had a little travel trailer for seven years. Some years I do more rv camping, some years I do more backpacking. The RV really extends the camping season here in Texas. Summer can be brutal without an AC during mid day.
I do not really see the two as comparable.
Backpacking stands alone. Next closest thing is getting on a motorcycle with luggage. Small trails that will get you far away from everything.
Van camping is a step up from car camping. Or, a step down(EEH) from RV "camping". A decent car/suv/van can get you fairly deep, but nothing like a good set of legs.
I do go back and forth with wanting to sleep in a tent or van. My wallet says I am broke, so my tent it is.
Agree what others already said - backpacking and camper van. Make a basecamp, hike to some awesome spot to sleep there, then go back to van and move on...
2001 Suburban $5000. $1000 build out to make into a camper van and then use it combined with backpacking/bikepacking/kayak camping works great for us!
Sounds awesome.
My brain works this way when analyzing this kind of stuff. Love it!
I'm still trying to dial in my car camping setup. I found if weight isn't an issue then you can bring a roll a cot, which will give you a nice platform for a sleeping pad simulating a mattress. I have an eight person tent with steel poles, a large dining canopy, a Coleman two burner stove with a 5lb refillable propane tank, and electrical cookware for if we have a spot with a hookup. If we have a walk in site, we can use folding trailers to walk the gear into the campsite. To me this is the best of both worlds. You are off of the road, but still have the convenience of taking the things you want.
I do van camping and backpacking. Each has its place. When van camping at a first come, first served site I bring an inexpensive tent to hold the spot if I leave for a while.
I used to teach backpacking (back in the day). I even referred to RV’s as Land Maggots. Now, between RA-affected knees, hips, ankles, hands, I can’t. God, I wish I could again. But van life looks appealing. Take a power assisted bike with me and I won’t have to give up my identity with the outdoors. Getting completely away from people may not be as easy, but I can try!
What you really need is a video on roof top tents. Take a Jeep into more rugged places and camp out. Then use it as a base camp to go even farther. That sounds like a possible middle ground that could be worth exploring…
Interesting that a company like VanCraft reached out. I guess they thought there was enough crossover demographic with backpackers? Well, guilty as charged. I haven’t committed to a van yet, but they’re in my feed. Like you mentioned, they’re the ultralight version of a house/RV. Excellent job crafting a story around comparing the two. Setting yourself apart from the crowd yet again.
How could I resist a free van for a week. Lol. Thanks for watching.
From my perspective the applications of a van vs a backpack are completely separate. I like both because one is to get your body into and around remote, hard to access areas (backpack), and the other is entirely for covering much longer distances between those areas more comfortably (van) with all the comforts you need without relying on hotels, (sometimes) hookups, restaurants, or any of the other logistics you run into on a road trip.
Of course I'd always advocate for getting the pack setup first, and the van is just an extra luxury that maybe down the road is nice plus for people as they get older or just for those with accessibility needs that want to get outside. I know I've meet a good number of packers who are well into retirement and travel from hiking areas all over the country based out of an RV for 6 months of the year, and a nice van to me seems to be not much different in utility than that.
I do both and each has it's own pro's and con. Being older I mean seasoned, I enjoy the comfort of camper camping, but, I really enjoy the solitude of backpacking.
I simply ripped out the front passenger seat of my compact car and built in its stead a wood platform to put my camping mattress (fold down or rip out rear seats). (Measure boot to glove box, it's always enough for even a tall person to stretch out)
In place of the rear window shelf I put a platform and that's my kitchen.
100% waterproof.
Park anywhere (anywhere a car may park).
Perfect base for my backpacking trips.
Cheap and relatively fast to build (less than a day, hike more).
Only downside: it really only works for single persons since now you won't have a front passenger seat anymore and it definitely only sleeps one. If you have a split rear bench you could keep it to be able to take the occasional passenger.
I’ve seen other people do that. Like you say great if you are single and like the solitude
Bought my Ford Econoline van (5) years ago with 72,000 miles on it, for $7,000. Currently have 118,378. We use it primarily as a Basecamp for our backpacking & mountain biking trips. We built a king size bed in it that converts to a twin. Super comfortable after a backpacking trip. Going from the Backcountry back to the van makes us appreciate both lifestyles. I encourage people that are contemplating buying a van to due your homework & buy something that fits your needs. DON'T get caught up on keeping up with the "Joneses". Vans can cost as much as a house or even a down payment on a house. Don't blow your wad on something that loses value. Plan ahead. Thank you for the video, as always we enjoyed it. 🤙🏻
In the past I owned a boat it was expensive and time consuming. Sold the boat and now will rent a boat here and there but when done don't have to deal with maintenance and storage.
At 68 I am more of a minivan camper. I watch backpacker videos to learn about small light efficient gear.. I carry a cheap tent for saving a spot. Are you really going to leave a $600 tent unattended?
You can't take a vehicle into a wilderness area, but you can't pitch a tent anywhere you like either. Say you want to check out a city.
There is no right or wrong way to sleep. just a personal choice how to get it done. One system is only better if it suits your needs.
I love camping and trekking..but man I’d love to own a campervan too for the occasional road trip! I guess if you have the money..go for both!
2001 Suburban $5000. $1000 build out to make into a camper van. We love it. Just a thought :)
Having a 4Runner setup for Overlanding it gets me into some pretty remote areas, however there are things about Backpacking that are WAY better. Both for me, but prefer the purity, simplicity of Backpacking👍
You pretty much put it in a nut shell w/the pros & cons of it all...good job my friend
Both for me!
Great video Stephen!
Wilderness area for the win!
Steve, I have never used a camper van, but I think I prefer backpacking. I loved that line about "gear envy". We are constantly upgrading to lighter options. We don't have chairs yet, though.
I'm still wondering how any normal person can get over the 60000 - 80000 initial gear cost plus another several thousand dollars to get it tight and right and still say its better. Nothing is better if it costs that much....a cabin in the mountains could cost that or less. Eventually lazy will take over and you will end up at a noisy campground with clueless people and drunks on vacation. Hell to the no. Simplicity and low cost rules all.
I'll argue till I die that ultralight backpacking with the finest gear is THE cheapest hoppy. A good fishing rod could cost more than my gear...not even close.
Peace everyone - get a newby out of van life
60-80k is for a super high end van. I got one for 15k fully built out and I needed to buy another car anyway because my old one was crapping out. It sounds like you’re just pretentious and gate keep-y about the outdoors which in my option is the opposite of what the outdoors should be about.
U have to go check out the Granite Creek area in Wyoming, just outside Alpine, Your options are limitless on a 10 mile scenic drive to Granite Creek campground with limitless options for boondocking on the way. Leave a canopy set up and no one will take your site.
Thanks for the heads up! We are from Idaho and love playing in the Jackson area. Will check it out before the snow comes! Happy trails!
@@randallgd 👍. I say Jackson, but it’s really the Hoback area.
@@coolbreezeoutdoors7177 I backpacked in the Gros Ventre Wilderness last year. Stayed at the granite creek campground after the trip, very beautiful area that not many people know about, since everyone flocks to the Winds or the Tetons.
@@steveh5169 I was out there for all of June 2021, Yellowstone camping and backpacking, then went south to Alpine and over to Granite Creek for a few nights. The entire area is absolutely mind melting. I’ll be back again next year for June
Security. Didn't hear that covered. Have an active aunt who loves the outdoors, in her 60's, and security is big concern for her when she's solo.
You mentioned losing your site. You can also use a rugged trailer and as long as you secure it, come back to your trailer still there if you need supplies.
I would still be more on the side of backpacking. I like the feeling of walking and being directly in nature.
Vanlife and the extra space is great if you want to do something else than hiking on your trip. You can take a surfboard or a mountainbike with you, something you don't really do if you go out backpacking. But I have to say that I prefer sleeping in a tent over a van, because you can spend the night in very cool places.
Btw, if you are looking for some cool backpacking recipes, check out Chef Corso on UA-cam.
He has some really tasty recipes, which are nice if you get bored of the freeze dried meals. :)
Instead of paying so much for a camper van, those interested might want to try a teardrop camper. They are much less expensive and you can rent them to try them out too. If you really want to go cheaper, and you have the motivation and inclination (and a few tools), you can build your own teardrop camper. I built mine for about $3500 (pre-pandemic price). My husband and I love to backpack but we also love to go camping using our 4x8 teardrop camper. It all depends on what experience you are looking for but my point it, you can have both available to you without taking out a loan.
Very true. My dad built a very nice tear drop for a fraction of a campervan
I guess I’ll vote for both. I live full time off grid, in my van on my own land with woods and a creek. I take my backpack and head elsewhere for a change of scenery. So I get both full time. I should have done this decades ago.
I car camp at trail head because I am lazy to set up and take down my tent just for one night. Backpacking into back country to spend a few nights is the only option because vehicles can’t be driven on trail. If I want to spend my last night at trail head I’d be sleeping in the back of my suv. I thought about getting a van outfitted but I can sleep just fine in my car.
The adventure van market can be as simple as tossing a futon into an old work van or as extravagant as hotel ammenities on wheels. I would have liked more information on combining the two. For instance, using a van to drive to the trail head and carry extra water and meals while section hiking, day hiking, or on long weekend hikes.
100% Agree!
the best backpacking starts two days after you see the last beer can, i like the road least followed i enjoy your site thanks
I like both.
Variety is the spice of life !
For me, finding space to park that is private, has a view, and some hiking nearby takes a lot of research. I can find a place to go backpacking for the weekend within a few minutes.
Enter the world of 'Overlanding'. Come out to CO and we'll get you hooked up. A basecamp that is way more terrain capable than a van, and darned near as comfortable as a van.
Holy Cross Wilderness and White River Natl Forest ARE in Colorado. Seems he’s already there. But maybe you didn’t watch the whole thing… 🤷♀️
@@kjsgarden LOL, he doesn't LIVE in CO (to the best of my knowledge) and I sincerely doubt he sticks around to edit his videos. ;)
@@dangerpudge1922 nice guesses. I guess.
What about putting your back pack gear in your car? Car camping with the option to backpack sounds good.
Also, R5 videos look stellar!
Are you referring to Canon R5? I actually shoot R6 but thanks all the same.
Another awesome video and I agree with everything I do tend to get some gear envy 😆
No!!! But I wouldn't mind doing both...
I wish they would sell more Volkswagen van sized vehicles. They have micro RVs in Asia and Europe that are a lot more practical. The problem with RVs is parking them at home. A lot of cities won't let you street park.
I'm 2.5 years full time travel trailer life. Costs are no joke. Move every 1-3 months.
My sister and I plan to tent camp until we get too old and sore to sleep on the ground. Then we want a teardrop trailer. However, my sister won't sleep in a tent in grizzly country. When we finally get up that way, we would have to have a camper or van. Good to know we can rent one. Thanks!
As a child, me and my family traveled in a motorhome. It was fun, or in a small cottage🙌🏻
I'm car-free (no driver's license), camping looks interesting😍 Maybe someday ☺️ Your videos are good😋
Great. Now I need a camper van.
I want one of those camper vans so bad. I hate where I live and those vans are the ultimate freedom machines.
Me too!
I prefer Dualsport moto-camping. It’s like backpacking only faster 😜👍🏻
Bears! You forgot to weigh in on bears.
A small teardrop trailer is the best of both worlds.
Another nice video! 2:49 Do you have to keep eggs in a refrigerator, never thought it was true? That's really enjoying while camping or hiking. All the eggs we buy in Europe are from real chicken and are protected by nature itself.
I have a simple suv no build I love plus I sleep on the floor I hate high beds and a extreme minimalist it works for me a pocket rocket stove a small ice chest and one high low bag with everything I own in life it also house my tent I wouldn’t change it for this world
It's like... Two completely different things, two completely different activities. The camper van is your mean of travel and your "base of operation" so to speak. You use it to go on surfing or rock climbing trips. You can even go somewhere far with the camper van and then from there go on small backpacking trips. Personally I have a small camper van (VW Transporter) to go on climbing trips.
another well done video. I have an RV been across the country. yes they are convenient but as you also indicated there are variables that are a hassle. I have been backpacking for 30+ years. You can dial in your get to have many comforts with a minor weight penalty. base weight of 22 lbs including bear canister. I prefer backpacking.
yabadaba doo
I see that Hubba Hubba in the background! I hope you will review it; I can't find a single one UA-cam for the new version. Just picked one up a few months ago myself and have only camped a couple nights with it.
I’m talking about it next week. It’s a great tent!!
Yup
Backpacking preferred
I think you left out camping in the back of a pickup. In my mind it is the happy medium between van and backpacking. I say this because with a shell over the pickup bed and with a mattress in the back one, or I have been able go camping a bit further then I have been able in a van, with the simplicity of backpacking.
As a side note, I prefer backpacking.
I vote vancamp over hiking. I prefer semi-primitive camping without a lot of fluff or crowded campgrounds. I feel safer sleeping behind locked doors as a solo traveler. Vanlife is a much easier way to explore nature for most people. Backpacking is only for the very fit. Also a very good reliable van can be purchased for average $20 to 25k, not 60k; maybe less if someone is able to maintain it mechanically.
Maybe you could do a hybrid video, Steve. I'm considering migrating to vanlife as a base, with backpacking mixed in. Are they too similar? Will vanlife be comfortable and different enough that I won't get sick of both? Maybe you can give some insight...
You can get a used van for about 6k and then build it out slowly. Buying a prebuilt is a costly/risky investment. Do it slowly, do it thoughtfully and let it expand your backpacking range.
Of course, the best option would be to pack your back pack in your camper! Then you have the best of both Worlds! If of course you have the money to do that!
I too love backpacking but there are those that may lack the physical ability to hit the trail. I've tried rv camping in a small trailer and found it wasn't for me, at least in a trailer. Years ago, I had a vw bus and would camp out of that. Pretty primitive by today's standards. Still would rather be on trail when given a choice.
It's funny, it must be trucking but I don't care at all about level ground. As long as my head is above my feet, I've slept on 6% grades. I definitely understand why people would care, but if the bed is cozy and is below my angle of repose then I'm good.
I debated between a van and trailer for me AK trip. The rental vans only allowed for 100 mi a day. So wasn’t worth it in the end even for a small weekend trip. Would be better to just bring my Jeep and get a cheap motel or camp.
Sleeping in open air is unbeatable …😊
Love the topic of this video. It seems like a no-brainer to do but it's the first I've seen.
Why not both? haha I love backpacking, for all the reasons you shared. Then, going to vanlife just makes everything more luxurious, in comparison. I haven't done vanlife yet but it'll be in my future!
Great intro and snappy vid, love your editing style, what do you use if you don't mind me asking?
What do I use to edit? Adobe Premiere Pro
Love it!
Wow. That's intense music.
Good intense or bad intense?
@@MyLifeOutdoors just sets a different tone that the well reasoned content that follows.
Backpacking. Only caveat is if you have really little kids that can’t get to where you wanna go, then van camping.
Old VW camper vans are going for 30K, the transit/sprinters.. cost as much as a house.
Both but in different ways. Im thinking about living in a van
I comprise by doing canoe trips.
Oh s*** that intro was intense! Video is bomb AF like always. 🔥🔥🙌🙌
the weather is the big one !! i would rather sit in a van than a tent in crazy weather !! plus i feel more secure in a van than in a tent, there are heaps of crazy people out there that want to hurt you and animals that want to eat you !
great video, but you forgot to mention people who simple can't backpack easily. handicapped and the elderly come to mind. the camper van can help anybody who loves the outdoors to be a part of it even if their body can't hike the miles. thanks
Very true.
Well…can you really compare it?
Sure, walk take longer but you can almost go anywhere.
A van sure can’t. And if you look for the almost anywhere (Unimog) those are massive (and not cheap for sure).
But one is for truly long distance (walk the Sahara…) and the other is pure freedom.
SUV Life + Backpacking = Happy Me 🌿
I prefer a tiny travel trailer.
Why not both?
I prefer camper-packing.
I backpack my campervan.
My camper van gets me to trailheads so I can do the great hikes. Synergy rather than either/or. Not the greatest idea for a vid, IMHO.
Why not both
Mama Mia!
Why choose, just do both. IF you got the $$