Why I Live in a Subaru and Not a Van or RV | why I bought a Subaru Forester to live in

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  • Опубліковано 11 кві 2024
  • People often ask me, why not buy a van or RV to live in?
    Here's why.
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    If you'd like to know why I live in a car in the first place:
    • Living in a Car || Why...
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    #livinginacar #subaru #suvcamping #subaruforester

КОМЕНТАРІ • 372

  • @SpenSir
    @SpenSir 2 місяці тому +40

    Just got an older Forester expecting to Rubber Tramp in 60 days. I'm retired, 71 years old, and going for it😊

  • @gailsgig
    @gailsgig Місяць тому +65

    I live in Upstate New York, and was a realtor for 24 years. I would ONLY buy a Subaru. They are the safest car with roll bars in the doors and roof. I bought all season radial tires, and used them all year. We have LOTS of snow! Many feet most winters, about 200” in the average winter. Never hd a problem with the hills or getting stuck. THE BEST CAR!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +5

      Thanks for sharing about your great experience!

    • @mariekatherine5238
      @mariekatherine5238 Місяць тому +3

      Agree! Best for NNY. Lived in the ‘70’s, ‘80’s in St. Lawrence, Jefferson, Lewis Counties. We had more snow back then. I didn’t live in my vehicle except an occasional overnight in summer. I couldn’t afford a Subaru, and “foreign” cars were hard to get repaired, serviced, get parts. I had a 1974 Dodge Dart, a 1973 Dodge Station Wagon, 1980 Chevette, (Don’t laugh, it was excellent in the snow!), 1982 Bronco.

    • @jeananne75
      @jeananne75 25 днів тому +2

      I’m also from upstate NY and currently on my third Subaru! Best cars ever! I have had no issues with them whatsoever!

  • @DetoxProxy
    @DetoxProxy 2 місяці тому +29

    Built my old Forester into my overland camping rig. One of the best things I did.

  • @generator6946
    @generator6946 Місяць тому +18

    Ha! I lived in a VW Bug most of 1969!!
    I still have found memories of it!!

  • @UsernameJPKRUSPNCB
    @UsernameJPKRUSPNCB 2 місяці тому +23

    Subaru Forrester is the great choice for many reasons especially when it comes to reliability and durability.

  • @outbackeddie
    @outbackeddie Місяць тому +19

    My daughter bought a used Outback and drove it for 10 years with no problems whatsoever. She ended up selling it to buy a new Outback in 2011 and she still has that car. She claims she will never buy anything but a Subaru.

  • @JulieAiken
    @JulieAiken Місяць тому +10

    I am so you! I lived in a class be and then a Prius for almost 2 years, and I was on the move constantly. I think I spent a full week in Yellowstone and Grand Teton for the total solar eclipse in 2017, and I did spend about a month in Los Angeles because I had lots of friends and family there, but basically it was one night per town or park. I love parking lots, rest stops, state parks and city stealth camping. I got very sick (brain tumor) and had to come off the road, but I'm planning to be out again for about 6 months every year starting in 2025. Safe and happy travels to you -- I'm subscribing!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  27 днів тому +2

      Thanks! Best wishes with your health and future travel plans!

  • @jessiehead6525
    @jessiehead6525 2 місяці тому +26

    I agree with everything you said - love the Subarus! SO much easier to go anywhere and do anything when you can scoot around in a Subaru vs. a huge van, RV, or trailer.

  • @pnwrving9841
    @pnwrving9841 2 місяці тому +12

    I have the same exact van as nomad introvert and it is a ram ProMaster even though she refers to it in her videos as a Sprinter van, it can be repaired at any Dodge dealership or any mechanic can repair the Ram. Also that van is only 18 feet long so very nimble and can be parked pretty much everywhere . I have had mine almost 3 years, good 😊 van, good times!

  • @shannonking6328
    @shannonking6328 2 місяці тому +40

    Nomadic Introvert is the vanlifer who also just bought a Suburu Forrester to travel over terrain that was too difficult for her van, which was not a four wheel or all wheel drive. She still loves her van and considers it her other home. There are also some camp grounds where you have to have a fully contained RV. She will still travel in her van from time to time, but for mountain roads in Colorado, which she recently traveled, or her trip up to Alaska, she wanted better mileage and something that could take her to more remote areas.
    It's also more stealth for finding places to sleep and useful in areas that are not as friendly to van lifers, such as certain eastern parts of the US.
    However, she is keeping her van in storage for now, with 24 hour electric hook-up. It is fully paid for and can also hold her belongings that are not needed for a particular trip.

    • @deborahcurtis1385
      @deborahcurtis1385 Місяць тому +1

      Another way is to just have your (not immediately needed) belongings in storage in a central place for your travels.
      Or if it's close by where you're staying you can use it as a change room, a wardrobe and even a place to relax.
      Hiring a room in an office can also work and break up the rigours and monotony of being so confined in your living space. It also means you can stay out of the heat or cold for extended periods and do some on line work and meet people.

    • @user-yn7on7ou8n
      @user-yn7on7ou8n 29 днів тому

      Love Nomi ❤️

  • @montananerd8244
    @montananerd8244 2 місяці тому +25

    Your vehicle looks perfect for the West, for sure! We see both tourists & long-term travelers struggle so much with RVs & campers & such. Watching an inexperienced mountain driver try to navigate thru a mountain pass or a twisty campground is painful. As a solo traveler I can't imagine bothering with an actual RV, there's just so much work (dealing with the plumbing in an RV vs a July outhouse...I'll take the July outhouse lol! I'll forget the smell in 5 mins, all those hookups & chemicals will eat up TIME. I'm actually pretty shocked that people think an RV is a good idea. And yeah, the gas bill for mega vehicles is what can put people in tough situations, I would not want to have that hanging over my head. Fancy camping setups typically offer less flexibility & become a burden in so many locations. My ex & I used to just camp in the back of his subaru instead of dealing with a tent, it was quite comfy & I felt very safe.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +4

      Good point about the manuverability of RVs in the mountains and such!

    • @deborahcurtis1385
      @deborahcurtis1385 Місяць тому +1

      Yes fuel prices are a vulnerability in a motorhome or van that sucks a lot of it.
      A tent is very flimsy I would not want that. I don't like cooking outside though it's limiting especially in bad weather.
      You need to be flexible and able to cut and run in tricky situations.

  • @dawna4185
    @dawna4185 Місяць тому +7

    great choice for living!! lots of headroom which is important! I have a crosstrek i sleep in on roadtrips. I have the Thule XL roof box with the locks on both sides. the two locks are worth the extra expense. you can access it from the drivers side and that is very convenient and is safer than having to walk around to the other side of the vehicle (especially if the passenger side is filled with stuff...anyhow, the box holds so much and it is a game changer!! be safe out there and enjoy your freedom!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks for sharing about your rooftop box! That’s a good point re locks on both sides

  • @Michelle-bw1xg
    @Michelle-bw1xg 2 місяці тому +24

    It can take a lot of consideration to select a vehicle to live in - clearance, stand up or not, cost, reliability, how often and where utilized & more. Very personal decision of course. I ultimately bought a basic used minivan for the space, to affordably try out the lifestyle yet have a daily driver that can park in a garage. Converting it, plan to use for longer travel at retirement but can put seats back in if not for me, or get a higher vehicle to stand in or higher clearance if I need it. For now, will furnish with very basics and add only things I need as I start to use it.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +3

      Great that you found something that works well for you!!

    • @allisonthomas8099
      @allisonthomas8099 Місяць тому +2

      @@elizabethoffgrid I notice a guy was walking in the background, he went in the bushes ,I hope you know your surroundings

  • @Cspspack
    @Cspspack Місяць тому +19

    I’ve had Superu’s (misspelling intended) since my parents first bought one when I was 4 years old. I’m now 45. I’ve tried other cars and they just don’t compare. The drive feel, durability, reliability and overall ability are unmatched. I’ve never lived in a car, but I’ve had Imprezas, a Forrester and now Outback. They are amazing dog cars! The Outback is so comfy and has a bigger backend for my 4 dogs. I drive them forever. I could totally see myself camping in my Outback with my dogs! 🐕

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +4

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @minigirl6839
      @minigirl6839 Місяць тому +4

      Agreed! Nothing better than a Subaru. I purchased my first one in 1984. I was hooked and have owned five Subarus since that time. Honestly, I could probably still be driving the first one I bought. They are that dependable.

  • @deejaydee56
    @deejaydee56 2 місяці тому +15

    Have a 2018 Forester and absolutely love it. Have done car camping in it and it was great! To camp in Michigan state parks you need a tent so I invested in that and it allows for more living space. I have never felt so safe in a car as I do in my Forester. The adaptive cruise control makes traveling on freeways a breeze! It will drop speed based on your setting and speed up to your set speed once the slow down passes. Can’t say enough about it - it’s my second Forester and third Subaru after owning Honda’s, Toyota’s and American! Enjoy your Subaru! Hope to see you on the road!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Thanks for sharing! So why do you need a tent in Michigan?

    • @michelleh5727
      @michelleh5727 2 місяці тому +2

      ​@@elizabethoffgrid I just ran into this myself... I'm in the north east Tennessee area but did see this requirement in Florida recently as well.. apparently campgrounds can and more are actually requiring that you have an actual tent set up in the designated space... when I asked why I got several "reasons" pretty much they want it to look like your just out camping.... for some reason for some people it looks sketchy to be "living" in your vehicle .... there are still people who have never even heard nevertheless thought about "car camping" here's my take on it.. I just ordered a cheapish pop up tent to use in such situations going forward.. and honestly I think it will be good for extra space if I'm spending longer periods of time at campgrounds.. I think it will be especially helpful in decluttering and reorganizing while keeping it more private especially to the noisy type campers. people will think I'm just camping... not living full time.. for me, it's about wanting to keep the lowest profile I possibly can...

    • @michelleh5727
      @michelleh5727 2 місяці тому +1

      Now, If I sleep in the tent is none of anyone else's business..

    • @rolandmarkland6844
      @rolandmarkland6844 2 місяці тому

      @michelle, yeah I don’t think anyone would care.

    • @lskazalski
      @lskazalski Місяць тому

      I'm on my 3rd Forester. My husband and adult son both also own Foresters. I camp in mine. My sister owns one, and so do both of my college age nieces. Best vehicles ever.

  • @starringshannon8163
    @starringshannon8163 2 місяці тому +7

    I really like this video! Super informative and you bring up very great points. Thank you for sharing your thoughts!

  • @pamyearout9322
    @pamyearout9322 2 місяці тому +8

    Thank you so much. What you pointed out in this video made so much since to me (we seem to be quite a bit alike with what we want and (don't want in particular). So this has helped me define my goal. Again, thank you.

  • @DocLucy
    @DocLucy Місяць тому +2

    This is so informative! I haven’t thought of these specific advantages to living and traveling in a Subaru! I’m so glad I your channel popped up- especially before I committed to a van purchase for living in while traveling to the national parks, hitting the road again every day or two as you are. Thanks so much!!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому

      Good to hear - it is always good to get different perspectives!

  • @cllmekandi
    @cllmekandi 26 днів тому +3

    As a person that is on her research portion of my journey to nomad lifestyle and living in a car I sooooooo appreciate this video!! I watch Introvert Nomad as well and you both are a great help. You got right to the pros and cons. I didn't know it was not easy to get a van fixed if it breaks. I will be following your journey! ❤

  • @Medevicerep
    @Medevicerep Місяць тому +5

    Another Subaru option is the Ascent. I owned three Outbacks in the past and loved them. I just needed more towing capacity for my sailboat. The Ascent has a 5000 lbs towing capacity. The space is cavernous. I actually have more storage space with the two back rows folded down than I had with my Toyota Tacoma truck bed. With the standard turbo, it is very quick.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому

      Yes the ascent seems like a great car! Looks like they are harder to find on the dealer lot

  • @tamirule4216
    @tamirule4216 18 днів тому

    Love your outlook 👍🏻🤩

  • @makelifeexciting
    @makelifeexciting 2 місяці тому +1

    This is a very informative video. Thank you for sharing your experience and knowledge with us. You helped me out a lot with decision making. 😊

  • @JeanneKnits
    @JeanneKnits 2 місяці тому +4

    Oh wow, I'm almost you! Just bought a Subaru Forester about a month ago to camp out of. Not full time, but for many of the same reasons you say. After full-timing for 10+ years in a 26' motorhome, I'm settled down in a trailer and this will be great daily driver, and to camp out of for short get-aways, and for the longer road trips. Same as you why I didn't go with the Outback. Subaru is truly an excellent value for what is included. It is a great car and I'm very happy with my choice.
    This is the first time seeing your channel recommended, so now I think I'll go binge some back episodes! Looking forward to following along. 😉

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Sounds great! Yes it’s such a good combo of daily driver and camper!

  • @thomassmith1234
    @thomassmith1234 10 днів тому +1

    A tent to hang out in if you stay someplace for a long time is a nice easy addition. A Springbar Outfitter provides standing height and is still fairly small. Tent as the living room, car to sleep in. Simple and efficient.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  4 дні тому

      Yep I agree -- I have a tent, just haven't had the need yet

  • @JeffWestNW
    @JeffWestNW 2 місяці тому +2

    I'm new to your channel today. You're brave and adventuresome! I love Subaru Foresters myself and though happily married and 65 y/o this July I fantasize "what if?". You do a masterful job of working out your problems! I subscribed to follow along with you for encouragement in my own escapade. You've got my prayers young lady!

  • @SuperKat619
    @SuperKat619 2 місяці тому +1

    First time visiting ur channel and I love it! Thanks for the info.

  • @CreativityKey
    @CreativityKey 2 місяці тому +3

    I absolutely love your channel! The way you explain things and go into detail is so interesting. I was hoping that you would be able to make more than one video a week. I know you have other channels that require your attention. However, you have so much, interesting content that I miss only hearing you once a week. I also think it would help to grow your channel quicker. Have a great weekend.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for that!! Yep I hope to in the future 😃

    • @renee6807
      @renee6807 2 місяці тому

      I agree with this subcriber. I enjoy your detailed vids and hope that you can put out 2 vids for us to enjoy!

  • @Kimbopolo
    @Kimbopolo 5 днів тому

    Good to hear you have found your sweet spot. I part-time traveled all over the country in a nice camper van for 7 years. But it was soooo much work! I switched to an suv and it was so liberating! Subscribed.

  • @shirleylake7738
    @shirleylake7738 Місяць тому +1

    Thank you for all of the teasons you chose the Subaru. Good luck and happy trails.

  • @simpleme5719
    @simpleme5719 2 місяці тому +1

    These are great points! You just helped me. I plan to get a Toyota Sienna.

  • @dreamup8431
    @dreamup8431 2 місяці тому +1

    Subscribed! I like your vibe and info.

  • @Mymamy
    @Mymamy 2 місяці тому +3

    I just found your channel last week and have been watching your videos.. 1st..love how you explain your thought process 2nd I’m so impressed with your smarts, your honesty and not having to justify your decisions.. but mostly I love how much energy you have .. you do so much!! I laugh at your self imposed challenges with self imposed rules that if broken.. no big deal.. just start over ❤

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Thank you :)

    • @tammydiienno2751
      @tammydiienno2751 Місяць тому

      Agreed, i just found her for the first time n shes very informative w that great energy wich speaks volumes :)

  • @Jon-nt8sx
    @Jon-nt8sx 2 місяці тому

    I live out of my Forester, too. Thanks for video.

  • @LindaStokes-ff2kv
    @LindaStokes-ff2kv 2 місяці тому +1

    Great video. Thank you

  • @CitiesandTowns1966
    @CitiesandTowns1966 Місяць тому

    Great video!!!! Very helpful.

  • @tammiepulley7167
    @tammiepulley7167 17 днів тому

    I love your channel. Glad UA-cam reminded me.

  • @lauraandrews8319
    @lauraandrews8319 2 місяці тому

    I’ve been looking at the Wilderness Edition. Great video!!

  • @frankwc0o
    @frankwc0o 2 місяці тому +1

    You can tell you have a wilderness, for the tags on the seats. Super cool.

  • @sml0266
    @sml0266 Місяць тому

    I think this is the way I would like to travel when solo. I want the most simplistic set up possible and you sound like you have thought things through really well. TY for sharing. I think I would add a tent if I wanted to stay in one place for a week or so but I would like to experiment like you have.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому

      Thanks! Yes there is something really great about keeping it simple

  • @renee6807
    @renee6807 2 місяці тому

    Hello Elizabeth nice to see you! Now that you have the Subaru I can relate to your vids even more. Nice choice!

  • @GrantSR
    @GrantSR Місяць тому

    I just have to say that you are double-plus awesome. I absolutely love to just watching you talk. I sent a link to this video to a friend of mine who is starting, yet again, to look for a vehicle to go traveling in. She's not going to live in it full time, but she will be out for a month or so at a time. And she likes to go see lots of things , rather than stay put for months, just like you.
    I vandwelled full time in a minivan for 6-8 years, depending on how you count it. Now I have "upgraded" to a 1995 Chevy Suburban 4x4. And I'm just now figuring out how I'm going to set it all up.

    • @AlyciaJane
      @AlyciaJane Місяць тому +1

      I had a 4x4 Yukon XL that I loved but bit the dust. I’d like to get some thing like the Yukon or suburban to live in now, the only problem is the terrible gas mileage, 13 miles per gallon.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks! Good luck with your new rig

  • @Gallifrey218
    @Gallifrey218 Місяць тому +3

    I have a Honda Element and a Stansport "toilet" I use for emergencies. I also use small compostable bags which can be buried using a small hand shovel.

  • @Worldpeace353
    @Worldpeace353 16 днів тому

    You're so fun to listen to. I'm subscribing Right to the point I like it

  • @dawn4999
    @dawn4999 24 дні тому

    Great video!❤

  • @lindasue8719
    @lindasue8719 2 місяці тому +3

    I just wanted to bring up a point for people who run into trouble getting an SUV or minivan into an RV park. My experience is that their issue is you're going to be needing a tent to sleep and they're worried about people not having onboard toilets (and relieving themself on the property). I have both of those conveniences in my SUV.
    I haven't had an opportunity to challenge an RV park recently, but I think we should all be bringing up these points by way of protest, if we have everything inside our vehicle (...because really, how is it remotely different from being in an RV?)
    Some places want only nice-looking vehicles, so whether you're in an SUV or rv, they still might kick you out if they don't like the looks or age of your rig.
    So glad I found somebody else who's in an suv! I'm only camping at the moment but hope to send more more time in it, even in the city.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +2

      I don't like RV parks (I'm more of a campground person) but yes many of them are very uppitty. Great to have you here!

  • @loriz68
    @loriz68 2 місяці тому +2

    I just stumbled on your channel, probably because I'm obsessing about subaru foresters in my search and I just wanted to say I think you choosing a subaru forester (wilderness trim specific) was a great choice. I am not living the same situation as you but own my own forester wilderness as a daily driver and the space inside is huge! And its a very comfortable ride and I often feel that camping in it will be so easy to do. Enjoy and hope you have many years of great adventures in it 🙂
    There is a subaru sales person who does a ton of tutorial videos on how to use their car and he did a great job of explaining the adaptive cruise control. After you use it once, it feels totally simple to use after. The one thing I don't like is the lane keep assist. It creeps me out a bit because I'm old school. I hope you don't mind but I will kind of sort of link his channel for you so you can check him out
    His channel is www.youtube.com/@alexpmo

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +1

      Thank you and thanks for sharing that resource!

    • @loriz68
      @loriz68 2 місяці тому

      @@elizabethoffgrid You are very welcome! I found that guy incredibly helpful in explaining how all the features work even before I got my own forester. I felt really prepared by the time I took delivery of my new subaru and thought in case you would find his tutorials helpful too, I wanted to let you know about him

  • @nursebabs
    @nursebabs 2 місяці тому +15

    I totally get it. I traveled to the Yukon in my Sorento SUV and loved it. It will help you having AWD I used mine several times up there. I just didn't feel I want anything bigger. I love mud and dirt driving and it's 6 cyln so no issues. Congrats on your choice

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +1

      Thanks for sharing!

    • @UrabanRVlife
      @UrabanRVlife 2 місяці тому +1

      Love the Yukon!

    • @lockandloadlikehell
      @lockandloadlikehell 2 місяці тому +2

      Is that the body-on-frame Sorrento, or the newer unibody Sorrento ?
      If it's the former, it's 4wd; not AWD.

    • @nursebabs
      @nursebabs 2 місяці тому

      @@lockandloadlikehell all I know is it has AWD emblem and I've used it. It's just a button you push. It's a 2016

  • @ValueCarsAU
    @ValueCarsAU Місяць тому

    Nice video and good to hear different opinions. I own a Subaru outback and i love stealth camping in it, but couldn't imagine living in it full time. So even as an owner, I'd cast my vote in favour of a similarly priced nice van, something like Hyundai Staria.

  • @cchoi108
    @cchoi108 18 днів тому

    Makes sense I don't want to stay in one spot for months at a time either. I was also thinking about a Subie! Or else lifting my Prius 😸. The other thing I've been thinking about is a truck camper. I loved the F-250 I used to have but it's a gas guzzler. Now you have me leaning towards the Subie. My mom already has one so that's another plus. Thanks for your video!

  • @aprillucas-boyle222
    @aprillucas-boyle222 2 місяці тому +1

    Love your shirt!!!

  • @Tipperary757
    @Tipperary757 Місяць тому +1

    2000 Subaru Forester here. Never a problem. Love the clearance.

  • @VibeWithMe_321
    @VibeWithMe_321 2 місяці тому

    I love it!!! ❤️

  • @theresa337
    @theresa337 27 днів тому

    Nice. I had looked at ads but didn’t know anyone driving a Subaru.

  • @cpataxpro
    @cpataxpro 25 днів тому

    Just subscribed as our views on vehicles and travel align. For the rooftop box, consider Thule (solid rep and lot's of choices to fit your SUV and control height). Lots of good options out there for a porta=potti ... keep it simple, bag it, and look at a pop-up outdoor vertical dressing room for privacy ... easy to deploy and incredibly small space when collapsed). Be safe, have fun, and you do you! 💯

  • @billbuschgen520
    @billbuschgen520 2 місяці тому +1

    You have my dream car. The AWD system on a Subaru is the very best you can buy. Jeep is the only vehicle I have seen beat it on some road tests. It beats CRV and everything else. Best visibility of all the vehicles in it's category. Best Wishes!

  • @michaelcaldwell7107
    @michaelcaldwell7107 2 місяці тому

    My partner absolutely loves her Forester.

  • @monicamosleyspencer739
    @monicamosleyspencer739 2 місяці тому +2

    Car Gurus has a great video comparing the Subaru Wilderness and the Rav 4 Adventure. Both great, subtle differences which would matter based on how a person would use.

  • @netty10453
    @netty10453 2 місяці тому +1

    Lot of good info, I am thinking of short camping trips with Honda CRV

  • @birdingtrip7101
    @birdingtrip7101 Місяць тому +1

    I don't live full time, but I adventure a week at a time. I love doing this in a SUV, also. There is really nothing I would change, after 2 years of tweaking everything. I agreed with everything you said.

  • @TRONABORON
    @TRONABORON 2 місяці тому +1

    Maybe you can take out the back seats and do some small changes to make it more comfortable. If you can avoid a roof tent it is a good thing! Either way its an excellent choice.

  • @jamesofsandiego
    @jamesofsandiego Місяць тому +2

    I have a Forester. I've looked at rooftop cargo carriers. Someone who has one pointed out to me that one that opens on the side instead of the back is more practical. I plan on getting one of those. Thule makes them. Thule is expensive. There might be other options. I just wanted to pass that info along to you.. Great video.

  • @ramonapuckett3059
    @ramonapuckett3059 2 місяці тому +2

    Thank you for the information about the whys! It’s the kind of thing I need ❤

  • @carolinehannah3283
    @carolinehannah3283 2 місяці тому

    Thanks for sharing

  • @moldytaco
    @moldytaco Місяць тому

    Oh goodness!! Someone just like me. I love being in small spaces. It's comforting! I grew up in a hoarder home and I enjoy having small spaces because it forces me to really be really picky about things. Less things, less responsibilities! RV/Vans are too much. I solo travel (hope to live in in a few months). Less stress! More freedom! I got a suburu forester for all the same reasons. I'm sad that the upgraded model wasn't out when I bought mine, but I'm getting a skid plate on mine soon and lifting it a few inches. I have no build (I don't want or need it). I'd rather be out on forest service and logging roads going 5-10mph than anything else. I love getting lost and then finding my way again. Thanks for the video! Love your personality.

  • @judymccormack2150
    @judymccormack2150 9 днів тому

    Thanks. I have a 25' class C. High gas consumption and it is true about always needing maintenance. Great for long term stays and travel. I'm transitioning to an apartment and part time travel. Subaru Forester is on my list of options. High clearance and skid plates are a plus for me. A mini-van would be great but not on dirt roads. Can you put a lift kit on a Honda Odyssey - LOL. Great video. Super helpful.✨️✨️✨️

  • @jimludwick
    @jimludwick 27 днів тому

    Thanks! Will follow you. Congratulations 🎉

  • @postedback
    @postedback Місяць тому

    great that it works for you

  • @haakonnilssen7151
    @haakonnilssen7151 Місяць тому +1

    Hi Elizabeth; I love this video I live in a Subaru Outback: I love it 👍

  • @lindaberl3712
    @lindaberl3712 Місяць тому

    All good points.
    I have been eyeballing my 2010 Subaru Outback for camping. The difficulty is that there are two of us, but we will figure it out. It is definitely going to be “cozy”.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +1

      Yep with two people you better like each other :)

    • @lindaberl3712
      @lindaberl3712 Місяць тому

      @@elizabethoffgrid i guess we are soon going to find out.😉

  • @ericg9092
    @ericg9092 2 місяці тому

    Just found your channel. Great video.

  • @nataliianezhynska5119
    @nataliianezhynska5119 15 днів тому

    I love my Subie❤ Such an amazing car.

  • @ricksseniorlife
    @ricksseniorlife Місяць тому

    Got a RAV4, I’m a Toyota guy, but have heard good things about the Forester. Like your style.

  • @LoneWolfExplorer
    @LoneWolfExplorer Місяць тому +1

    Currently I really enjoying camping in my Subaru outback, only issue is here in the UK it rains a lot & winter is very wet so it can be a real challenge in that weather. I often think about a larger van but I really like my Subaru for all the reasons you mentioned. I have started a small van build on my VW Caddy van for the winter months so I will see how I get on with van life but can't see myself getting rid of the Subaru anytime soon ;)

  • @elsaandnoah
    @elsaandnoah Місяць тому

    Ooh, Forester Wilderness 😊

  • @sophieb8666
    @sophieb8666 2 місяці тому +2

    Good choice

  • @amariebfree5326
    @amariebfree5326 28 днів тому

    Im not planning anything full-time but I alzo just upgraded from a 2014 Civic to a 2020 Subaru Forester. I do take roadtrips and car camp. I went with an suv because I wanted AWD, and the ability to go boondocking on rough roads. I know there are AWD minivans but they still dont have the clearance I wanted. Plus for just myself I felt like an SUV had plenty of room. More then I might need for a few weeks at a time.

  • @tammydiienno2751
    @tammydiienno2751 Місяць тому

    Love all the things u hv alredy processed for ur pursuit. I too prefer the mobility of bein able to choose ea day what my itinerary will b n make changes as i move along my path. Ive only done month long trips since 2017 but this summer will b my first long haul in my “car motel”, a rav4 toyato, which ive alloted 3 months, but theres really no limitations for the time ill b gone. Ive got a jackery 2000 wich runs my fridge/freezer for 4 days b4 it depletes to zero w/o havin to use my solars. Im excited to go to oregon in june for my daughters wedding, the go-go capitals 1 hr 43 mins away in portland wher theyre very open minded (cus i stil gota pay my rent in Philly), the shasta mntns hv ben callin me since 2020 and cali also has the PCH to travel. I gota wonder who ill run into that hv given me great tips thru utube videos, but half the reason for this lifestyle is all the alone time in nature n the open highways in our beautiful america that draws me towards loving bein w my own energies. Wishing u all the safety, lov n joy on ur travels as well!!!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому +1

      Thanks for sharing about your setup and experience!

  • @okmmauh
    @okmmauh Місяць тому +1

    I love this lifestyle. I am in a minivan and very very minimal. Just yoga mat on the floor and an emergency bathroom. A few small bottles of water. I love my space

  • @MrMoneyHelper
    @MrMoneyHelper 29 днів тому

    Thanks for showing us that sometimes cars are better for living on wheels than vans or RVs.
    Two years in a minivan and a couple of months in a Kia Spectra four door car. I bet I could figure out a way to live in a car long term. I found that sleeping in the front passenger seat fully reclined, with a laundry bag on the floor to elevate my feet, and a pillow in the hinge area to level the sleeping position, it was really comfortable.
    While in the minivan, I did decide that I needed a taller roof. I really wanted to stand sometimes. Not being able to stand for twelve hours while parked in a multi-million dollar neighborhood in stealth mode, could become uncomfortable. Having floor space for a toilet was beneficial. The only way to do that in a car is to remove the rear seat or push one of the front seats as far forward as possible (depending on the size of the car). Still, one might need to be seated with the head tilted forward depending on the size of the camp toilet.
    Even in the far north the temperatures can be over 100°F during the summer months. Night time temperatures would be in the high 80s. Ceramic tinted windows can block 99% of UV rays to keep the car really cool. It's hundreds of dollars to install it.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  27 днів тому +1

      That makes sense! Typically during the day I go to a park or a library or something, so I don't need to be in stealth mode. Yep I got the ceramic tint!

  • @bookbakery
    @bookbakery 2 місяці тому +4

    I do not understand the passenger seat Takata airbag that Subaru uses. I had so many Takata airbag recalls on my Honda, which I drove for an astonishing 17 years. It was the continuous airbag recalls that made me sell it. I thought the airbag company went out of business. I have driven a Toyota Highlander since 2019, and there have been no airbag recalls.

  • @maryannscheblein-dawson9202
    @maryannscheblein-dawson9202 24 дні тому +1

    Very informative. I'm in the very early lurking stage.

  • @pamelawing5747
    @pamelawing5747 13 днів тому

    To learn about your Subaru, there is a Subaru salesman from Kentucky that posts weekly on this platform and I watch his videos and that has helped me a lot to figure out all the knobs and buttons on our Forester so give him a looksee.

  • @therealcarlmarti
    @therealcarlmarti 2 місяці тому +50

    The best argument against a Subaru Forester is a Toyota Sienna AWD. They have basically the same gas mileage (maybe 1-2 mpg less), are more reliable, and have A LOT more space.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +59

      I'm sure the Sienna is a great car for many people. It costs a lot more and has about 3" less ground clearance, so not my choice.

    • @ferventlypassionatebelieve3146
      @ferventlypassionatebelieve3146 2 місяці тому +28

      @elizabethoffgrid Really Dig this answer, and the manner in which it was communicated. Much Respect Miss Elizabeth.🙏

    • @beverlybalius9303
      @beverlybalius9303 Місяць тому +4

      Yes,,, I agree. I drove a Taxi 20 yrs… Toyota is the best,,, and the sienna you can live in. I have a Camry because I couldn’t afford the Sienna but I might buy one thats a few yrs old, keeping my Camry.

    • @blueskies00
      @blueskies00 Місяць тому +4

      Omg yourw right and the sienna hybrid supercedes everything because of the Golden Climate Control and it's 1st class Dependability.
      People can stay cool in the heat and warmth in the cold.
      The best hands down.

    • @cvisconti4568
      @cvisconti4568 Місяць тому +2

      Yeah, and the spiders aren’t so close to your head 😮😙

  • @bobshoe1
    @bobshoe1 22 дні тому

    We’ve got a Subaru Forester with adaptive cruise control. It’s easy to learn to use it and it will make your long drives so much easier. In fact I wouldn’t buy any vehicle without that feature.

  • @TERRENCERAMIAH
    @TERRENCERAMIAH 18 днів тому

    Hello, I did listen to you UA-cam video, it's cool
    You speak just like my sister
    Yes...
    Me to I bought a Subaru Forester
    and
    Yes..am deeply thinking of living in my Subaru Forester
    I mean travelling place to place
    I love that, just seeing and exploring
    Regards
    Terrence
    South Africa

  • @shellye.1341
    @shellye.1341 2 місяці тому +2

    I haven't seen you in a while. You look great.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому +1

      Thanks! Ah sometimes YT doesn’t push out vids 🤷🏻‍♀️

  • @TRONABORON
    @TRONABORON 2 місяці тому

    The Forester is a perfect car! Has good head room, power, not to mention it is comfortable and dependable. And the most important thing is its not an electric or hybrid-good old fashion gas-much easier to fix!

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Yep I agree about electric especially, does not work yet for off grid

  • @normstangl3499
    @normstangl3499 16 днів тому

    If you ever want a great little trailer that is ideal for a single traveler such as yourself check out a new or used Taylor Coach model “L’il El” its 8ft long and 750 lbs. That would tow nicely behind a Forrester. You can even stand up in it. We have a larger Taylor Coach and love its light weight structure. They are highly regarded by their owners. You can see Brad Taylor showing their various models on youtube. This is a family run independent company. The support is tremendous.

  • @ruebennomura9143
    @ruebennomura9143 2 місяці тому +2

    Wow that was a nice Subaru on this video

  • @Worldpeace353
    @Worldpeace353 16 днів тому

    Kia Sorento SUV is great also Drives very well

  • @rowdyposs
    @rowdyposs 2 місяці тому

    I traded in my 2012 Honda Civic for a 2021 Forester. Not to live in but to better cater for my dogs and travelling. I have an 11ft caravan I can tow with it if I want.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Interesting! Yes I can see so much better with a bunch of dogs :)

  • @JamesSmith-is7co
    @JamesSmith-is7co Місяць тому

    I have two Subarus! But my current Sleep in is my Toyota Tacoma!

  • @lrowlands53
    @lrowlands53 Місяць тому

    A rooftop box/pod will change your fuel mileage. I even noticed a difference with roof racks.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому

      Yep I have heard that -- my thought is to only have it on there when I need room for the gear

  • @apureenergyme8573
    @apureenergyme8573 Місяць тому

    I am living in my Toyota rev4 for more than 1.5 year now. I love this living style, I don’t cook in my car because my work place takes care most of the food. I have gym and work place for nice showers. My bed is the most comfortable bed I had for my life. I love small space which means me feel safe and sleep well. I do wish this car can be little bit more space so I can move around easier while I am getting my cloths changing. I have a house in Texas and I rented out. I enjoying living in my car this way. And more I learned about those big vans, more I think it is more liabilities that I don’t want to taking on.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  Місяць тому

      Thanks for sharing! Yes I also love my small space :)

  • @dannypahl829
    @dannypahl829 Місяць тому

    I wish I could go travel with you Elizabeth ❤❤❤❤

  • @haggaisimon7748
    @haggaisimon7748 Місяць тому +1

    I’m with you, you don’t have to take a shower every day. It is damaging for your skin protection. I do wash my private parts every day, but that’s it. A shower say once a week is fine. Hair once in two three days.

  • @mihiretmamo8808
    @mihiretmamo8808 2 місяці тому

    I am glad you got a much better car ..Because this one has more space than your honda civic . 35k is really a good price for a brand new SUV .Enjoy

  • @JackiBigger
    @JackiBigger 2 місяці тому +1

    The only thing I don’t like about all wheel drive vehicles is having to change all tires if one is damaged.

    • @elizabethoffgrid
      @elizabethoffgrid  2 місяці тому

      Ah and also when you have it towed I think you need a flat-bed not a regular tow truck

  • @theyuha
    @theyuha Місяць тому

    I camp in a Dodge caravan, it seems less expensive to maintain. I also haul things in it. The body is made of a poor quality metal but otherwise it is good

  • @juliosdiy3206
    @juliosdiy3206 9 днів тому

    Uve made a good choice but just be aware of oil levels n leaks u be ok.