Ok....the Weather tech window covers specifically for this vehicle is legit. You did all the heavy lifting for anyone researching camping out of a Crosstrek.
Agreed! I have the weather tech floor mats that I love, but only had the OEM front sunshade. Those others are amazing. Thank you for the tip and showing your easy build for the bed platform.
Bought a roll of reflectix and will be making my own for about $50 total by the time I buy the fabric for the reverse side. That's a little over $100 less than what weather tech wanted for a 24 Outback set. Wish me luck!
Thanks! I just did what made sense to me. I’m glad you found some value. I did have to sell the Crosstrek though. Now in an outback that’s I’ve built out as well. Vid coming on that. Thanks for watching!
This is the fourth Subaru camping vid I've watched and by far the best... except for some girl from up north who was just easy to look at. As far as cooking inside is concerned, a Trangia alcohol burner to boil some water and make some coffee or tea or cocoa in the morning would be a really good way to go. No carbon monoxide is produced with isopropyl alcohol (It is a 100% combustible fuel) and it is a silent stove (great for emergency use as well). Combine that with an Aeropress coffee press and you'll be sitting pretty. Thanks for the review.
I appreciate the kind words. Boiling water or something by inside is fine. However, I find isopropyl alcohol doesn’t burn clean or very efficient. Heat or Denatured alcohol is the best. Burns super clean. Zero soot. That coffee tho. Haha. Thanks for watching!
@@robpelton, that's right. I meant denatured. not IPA. IPA has water in it which makes it a very ineffective and potentially hazardous fuel, as is HEAT when used indoors.. Denatured will burn efficiently enough to burn indoors, but with any burning fuel, you should be of aware of any and all potential hazards.
I have the same car, year and color and have running about the same setup in my Crosstrek. I have been using my cooler in the floorspace to build my platform up to level and my bedding helps insulate my cooler even more. Great setup!
@@donclifford7017 oh if we’re that easy. I parked in an underground garage. There’s just not enough clearance. 😕 however, things have changed dramatically since the is video. More info coming on that. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for showing how you get in or out of the bed from the outside ... and how you got to the front seat from the bed. Also, I appreciated the ingenuity of leveling off the back for your bed platform. A lot of very useful information in this video. Thanks.
Nice set-up. You can also pull out your platform for a “tailgate “ table when no picnic table available. Just support the pulled out end with a stick, board, hiking poles, etc.
I actually built a framed platform that extends out the hatch and is supported by a hitch extender; this was primarily for the dog crate and cooler...and I bought a net tent at the Army/Navy surplus store to cover the entire back and sides to protect us from bugs!!!
Ron- you and this video are too cool!!! Even love your jokes. Great ideas for no frills, low cost, weekend camping. I just want the basics for some weekend camping.
🌺This is AWESOME! 👍🤩 And you are hilarious!! 😂😂 I just got my first Subaru: 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness edition! I'm SUPER excited!! TYSM for all these great ideas!! 🥰
What happens when you tell someone with dyslexia to buy a bus to camp in? They buy a Subaru… ok, I’ll keep my day job! Nice set up. Looks like you had fun. That’s the most important thing.
Ngl I was skeptical before I watched the video but this is exactly the build and info I’ve been searching for. All plausible and within fiscal reach solutions here tysm!
I like it specially the get out of dodge, you can also fold the bedding and the base and move the sit back really quick and go to your next site. that way you dont have to take everything down and set up again. *with the exception of the nets. The benefit of getting in and out is that you can count that as doing Yoga for the day,
I just bought one as well. Kind of neat and handy gadget. It installs right on the headrest. It has a cup holder and storage cubby. Thanks for watching!
I have a similar set up in my Forester. I use a bigger cooler that i keep behind the driver seat. I always keep a thick wool blanket over and around the cooler to make the ice last longer. The blanket can be pulled if you get cold. Liked your video and plan on stealing some of your tricks.
Grea video. One suggestion: OEM or Amazon has the rain guards with adhesive that allows easy installation and helps keep the rain out if you just lower your ventilation window a couple of inches.
I went camping yesterday in MN and I took some tips from this video. One tip I can give to you is to disarm the alarm and disarm the noises for when u unlock/lock ur car. Wouldnt want the panic alarm to go off and i cant find the keys 😅. It's easy to do! And I brought ear plugs for when I go to sleep.
I've been looking to buy a camping vehicle, wondering if I could afford it. Then I see this. You're camping in a lifted Impreza, which id what I already drive. Guess I CAN afford it lol. Thanks man.
You definitely can do. Granted it depends on how long, your capacity/endurance, and physical size. I'm 6' 250+lbs. I've used my 2020 Impreza twice for car camping two times in two years. The first time was summarily a failure of maybe 4 hours of sleep over 8 hours and learned MANY lessons. Just had my most recent go around a year later and got solid, restful sleep. Except due to a heavy family conversation right at bedtime. But this time another 4 hours, though SOLID straight through! I survived my early ass fishing trip until I drove to my mom's to deliver her rockfish filets and subsequently passed out at her place. Unlike after that first time, I'm excited for round 3.😊
Good stuff Rob!! I've done more of this style of camping when going to mountain bike events over the years. Works great because it can be done in just a parking space at a trail head or Walmart. My old minivan was total luxury for this but now I'm in the truck bed with a topper. Leaving on a rainy morning and not having to pack up a wet tent is a bonus for this style of camping. Thanks for sharing!!!
I see you’re doing all kinds of biking out there! This kind of camping is pretty convenient and comfortable. I do love my hammock backpacking, but this is a nice change of pace. Thanks Joe!
Thanks so much! I have a 21 crosstrek and couldn't figure how to even out the back. You made this very simple for me to understand how to get everything packed up!
I have a Subaru Outback and use the 2/3 seat down with plywood. One full piece. I move the seat up a titch. Because the Outback is longer it doesn't have to go all the way. I use wooden blocks on all 4 points of the platform that I screw gunned into the plywood. The front two are lower than the back two. It lies completely flat. At the back of the platform it is high enough to put bins. The kind of sweater storage bins you would use under your bed at home. Super comfortable with my memory foam mattress and down duvet. I even use sheets and bring my pillow from home. Tons of storage and I love reaching up and opening the sunroof cover to see the stars or watch the rain fall. I went to Home Depot and hand cut window coverings but I like the Weather Tech ones better in your video!
Thanks for all of the great info. I'm planning on getting a Crosstrek Wilderness in a few weeks, and am planning to go car camping with it. That sleeping platform is a really good idea.
ohhh I like this idea of sleeping on the passenger side. I really struggled with getting into the drivers seat from my sleeping area when the driver's seat was pushed all the way forward. Good idea.
Awesome! I have a 21 sport same color, no sunroof. I'm retiring around April 25, plan on overnights at the pacific for beach, also tow a 14ft boat, great ideas.
Good info. I'm in pre-purchase mode, researching my options on cars. Leaning towards a RAV4. Spotting quite a few Crosstrek on the road, they always catch my eye. They look small, but maybe worth my time to look at.
Hmm…hard to beat a Rav4 or Crosstrek. The sheer fact you have those options means you’re doing something right! I love my CT. Checks all my boxes. Keep me updated. Thanks for watching!
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen for someone who is getting started. I have a Forester and I am trying to plan my needs and space so this is an excellent video. I really don’t want to overspend.
I have vent visors on all of the windows, which helps with ventilation on rainy days....Also, the Army/Navy surplus store has amazing finds!!! Roof rack storage is awesome. And, because the hatch stays closed, the bike and bike rack stay locked up in back...Your video was amazing!!!
I got a 2019 Crosstrek, and I love camping in it. For being a small SUV, it has plenty room for my fiancèe and me sleeping in it on an air mattress. And the best thing is, it's a Subaru and can take you pretty much anywhere 😊. Thx for the cool video
This was a great video for no fuss car campinh. I'll be trying out a similar setup in m y BE Vivian which is smaller, but I'm pretty sure I can fit everything in. I also have a Napier Backroadz tent that can attach to the truno when it's open. I plan to sleep in the car and use the tent for my gear/ kitchen. For my bed I will be using a 4inch foam tri-fold matress. The Vivian folds quite flat and like you I hope to use storage bins to fill in the gap. So Garvin trying it without a sleeping platform. I have all the window screens except the one for the sunroof. I'll have to find one. Thanks for confirming that I'm on the right track.
Thank you for mentioning that you need to unlock the car before getting out. I'm picturing a scenario in which I have to pee bad enough that I'm getting out of the car at night, then the alarm going off. There might be an accident lol Working on putting together my Outback set up.
Haha. That’s a lesson learned very few times. I now have an outback that has been converted for life/work road life. Perhaps there’s some ideas there. Thanks for watching!
i have a subaru outback i put remote start on mine . then i can camp in cold weather if it gets to cold i just start it up and turn on the heat then back to sleep also it gives you safety. have fun . PS im 80 years old my 2019 sube is getting a little small for me
Smart stuff for sure. Oddly the thing that stood out was clipping the keys to the headrest post. Have motorcycle camped but now have acquired a 2021 Crosstrek. Great tips!
It definitely seems like it works, but one of my suggestions might be to flip the bed board around so that your feet rest on the hinge. I feel like putting the heaviest part of your body on the hinge will eventually start to wear on it. Our feet/legs are considerably lighter than our torsos/heads if that makes sense. Amazing video though! I'll be buying a crosstrek here in a couple days and I'm super excited to have more room to do this type of this (Currently have an '03 Camry haha)
I see your logic. I like the hinge there to access the floor area and to have the correct clearance from the headliner. I don’t see an issue having the hinge on the other side. You’d just have to measure for appropriate clearance. Thanks for watching!
cool vid. Kept my attention. Always loved the crosstrek but never had one. My bro has 2 outbacks and a crosstrek, they are well designed cars with a huge following.
I have the same vehicle (2022) and I LOVE the bug screen idea. Never heard or saw them before. Also seeing your stomach made it feel much more relatable for me. Thanks!
Value! Entertainment! Informative and fun. Thanks for the little details! This was awesome. I have the very same car, model, color, and year. Keep living and being you!
Great video Rob. Lots alternative and useful ideas as im currently researching car camping set up for my Vauxhall Corsa and know it can be done well, comfortably and doesnt have to be expensive. You seem like a genuine, funny guy too! 😂
Dude, you crack me up. 😂🙌🏼 Thank you for the laughs and knowledge. You have a newer Crosstrek than me, but man.. Was just hanging in the back of it the other night watching the sunset and thought camping/sleeping inside it might not be so bad. Hyped to see what I can do after you shared some things! 🤙🏼
Pretty similar to my setup for my Kia Soul. I actually have a couple of those 2-foot-wide plywood sections (both have piano hinges), to cover the entire back area - I wanted something a little more stable under all the bins on the driver's side. The Soul doesn't provide as much length as the Crosstrek, but I am still able to sleep back there.
Great video, I’m going on a around a month long road trip all over the western side of the USA next summer in my 2018 crosstrek and I’m starting to make plans for my sleeping arrangement because i want to be able to sleep sorta wherever if I need to and I don’t want to have to deal with a tent if it gets wet and then I have to depend on a wet tent at the next stop and this gives me a lots of ideas thank you, I’ll probably need to make it more sophisticated to hold everything I need, and to with stand a month of usege, but like I said this is great for brainstorming thanks!
For sure that Crosstrek/Impreza hump will ruin your night's sleep if you don't plan properly! Especially as ill prepared as I was last year and found out I had to sleep with my head in the hatch to accommodate my 6' tallness. That decline will let you down like the worst coworker you've ever had. All because of that hump right at my hip kept me from any long rest. I tried to save a couple hours night's sleep for a company fishing trip utilizing my 2020 Impreza hatchback and a car camper setup and I guess it ultimately worked ( I arrived on time). I got barely 4 hours total rest with nothing more than 1.5 hours at a time over 8 hours allotted. Thankfully I did some little research and found that the window screening; that was a lifesaver. I learned quite a few additional lessons from last year. I added a platform that was only 40.5" long and fit in the hatch with the rear driver side seat upright. In addition to he basic blankets for padding my mom dug up some extra sleepung bags that added some cushion for net $0. Another huge addition was the rechargeable mini fan. It kept me cool plus it dissipated the humidity inside the car. And that extra 3" of lip at he hatch area from he floor WILL NOT matter because the interior part of the hatch fits flush when closed. Non factor.
So cool and simple! I have a Crosstrek and was trying to figure out how to deal with the height difference so I don’t have to set up a tent when I camp. I have the folding table already and I have that mattress. So thank you for this video!
This was really helpful for me to see how the bed platform works. Im considering buying a Crosstrek and seeing your set up, it'll work for me for camping.
The question I would ask is, What the better daily driver? I really like the Subaru. They’re very off-road capable and are great for everyday. Let me know what you decide. Thanks for watching!
I have the 2021 sport. Been car camping a couple times. Really like your set up, and how you re-pack for quick exit. Really good ideas I’ll be looking into. Thank you Rob. 👍🏼
Nice setup, I really like the window and sunroof nets. Thats the first time I've seen that solution. I have a Honda Fit (A.K.A the Battle-Fit) that I am working on setting up for car camping.
I love seeing these setups! Great Idea with the precut wood at menards. I might have to do that for mine! I've had home depot cut wood for me before and it was all jacked up..
This was a pretty simple build. I did get a little fancy because a buddy had a router and sander. So, I rounded the corners a bit, but this platform works really well. Do it! Thanks Tonya!
Great setup! Thanks for the run thru! I was laughing about the roof screen - I would need to have some sort of tether cuzz I know I would forget to take it off. I have a Forester so I'm wondering if there's a bit more headroom in the back for sitting up. I had an uncomfortable chair mat last time out, but the floor is more level so didn't need a platform and was able to sit up just barely.
I sleep in my outback, instead of the long folding plywood I switched to enough board between the front and back seat with a rope over the front seat for support then add the blow up pad and and a blanket under to smooth out the ripples. The bike less the front wheel is ratcheted to the hand grab.
In my 21' Crosstrek, I fill the foot area with a 2" Extruded Foam Board. I use an inflatable mattress, but would love to find a rollable or foldable mattress to better match a standard bed comfort. Most every other aspect of your set up is what I do as well. 🙏 ⚓️ ☀️ 🚗 🏕️
Ok....the Weather tech window covers specifically for this vehicle is legit. You did all the heavy lifting for anyone researching camping out of a Crosstrek.
Thanks! They’re so nice.
Agreed! I have the weather tech floor mats that I love, but only had the OEM front sunshade. Those others are amazing. Thank you for the tip and showing your easy build for the bed platform.
Bought a roll of reflectix and will be making my own for about $50 total by the time I buy the fabric for the reverse side. That's a little over $100 less than what weather tech wanted for a 24 Outback set. Wish me luck!
I have watched 100 of these. Your video was among the top !!! Very practical. Inexpensive. Doable. Well filmed and well done, sir!!!!
Thanks! I just did what made sense to me. I’m glad you found some value. I did have to sell the Crosstrek though. Now in an outback that’s I’ve built out as well. Vid coming on that. Thanks for watching!
Your mastery of physical comedy really makes this video. Thanks for showing us this!
Ha! Thanks!
P.S. After watching a handful of Crosstrek camping videos, just wanted to add that yours is the best one ;)
Wow, thanks! I appreciate that. Be safe out there and let me know how it goes!
This is the fourth Subaru camping vid I've watched and by far the best... except for some girl from up north who was just easy to look at.
As far as cooking inside is concerned, a Trangia alcohol burner to boil some water and make some coffee or tea or cocoa in the morning would be a really good way to go. No carbon monoxide is produced with isopropyl alcohol (It is a 100% combustible fuel) and it is a silent stove (great for emergency use as well). Combine that with an Aeropress coffee press and you'll be sitting pretty.
Thanks for the review.
I appreciate the kind words. Boiling water or something by inside is fine. However, I find isopropyl alcohol doesn’t burn clean or very efficient. Heat or Denatured alcohol is the best. Burns super clean. Zero soot. That coffee tho. Haha. Thanks for watching!
@@robpelton, that's right. I meant denatured. not IPA. IPA has water in it which makes it a very ineffective and potentially hazardous fuel, as is HEAT when used indoors..
Denatured will burn efficiently enough to burn indoors, but with any burning fuel, you should be of aware of any and all potential hazards.
I have the same car, year and color and have running about the same setup in my Crosstrek. I have been using my cooler in the floorspace to build my platform up to level and my bedding helps insulate my cooler even more. Great setup!
Solid idea. I like it. Thanks for watching!
Dude get a hitch carrier or roof box already :) Will open up soooo much more efficient space inside the cab
@@donclifford7017 oh if we’re that easy. I parked in an underground garage. There’s just not enough clearance. 😕 however, things have changed dramatically since the is video. More info coming on that. Thanks for watching!
Thanks for showing how you get in or out of the bed from the outside ... and how you got to the front seat from the bed. Also, I appreciated the ingenuity of leveling off the back for your bed platform. A lot of very useful information in this video. Thanks.
Still learning as I go. More vids coming on this topic. Thanks for watching!
@@robpeltonabsolutely love the tour. Where did you find the Bins that you put on the Footwell behind the passenger seat?
@@EmoRob0tMenards!
Nice set-up. You can also pull out your platform for a “tailgate “ table when no picnic table available. Just support the pulled out end with a stick, board, hiking poles, etc.
I consider that, but that’s what I use that table for! It is nice to know that’s an option though. Thanks Mark!
I actually built a framed platform that extends out the hatch and is supported by a hitch extender; this was primarily for the dog crate and cooler...and I bought a net tent at the Army/Navy surplus store to cover the entire back and sides to protect us from bugs!!!
I love the weathertech windshield covers
They work well! I do wish they had individual Velcro straps though. It would make it easier to roll them up individually. Thanks for watching!
Just so you know, Lowe's will cut wood for you on site
I like the simplicity. Making this platform for my forester.
Nice! Let me know how it goes!
You are a natural teacher. Can't wait to watch more of your videos
Loved the power seat impression! This is badass dude!
Haha! Was I wrong though?! Thanks Buckley!
Ron- you and this video are too cool!!! Even love your jokes. Great ideas for no frills, low cost, weekend camping. I just want the basics for some weekend camping.
Thanks for watching!
One of the best videos out there. Great detail and explanation. Very well thought out setup. Can’t wait for more videos Rob.
Much appreciated! Cheers.
I agree!
🌺This is AWESOME! 👍🤩 And you are hilarious!! 😂😂 I just got my first Subaru: 2024 Crosstrek Wilderness edition! I'm SUPER excited!! TYSM for all these great ideas!! 🥰
Awesome! Of course there’s now a “Wilderness” after I got mine. Lol. Thanks for the kind words and for watching! Cheers.
By far the BEST Subaru Crosstrek car camping how to video out there! Thanks, Rob!
What happens when you tell someone with dyslexia to buy a bus to camp in? They buy a Subaru… ok, I’ll keep my day job! Nice set up. Looks like you had fun. That’s the most important thing.
love that bed platform. very clever. and you are funny. ✌️
Ngl I was skeptical before I watched the video but this is exactly the build and info I’ve been searching for. All plausible and within fiscal reach solutions here tysm!
Thank you so much for watching!
I like it specially the get out of dodge, you can also fold the bedding and the base and move the sit back really quick and go to your next site. that way you dont have to take everything down and set up again. *with the exception of the nets. The benefit of getting in and out is that you can count that as doing Yoga for the day,
A few reps and my workout is done! Haha. I like to be able bail in a moment’s notice.
We bought these storage things from Amazon that attach to the back of your seats. We love them. Just a cool thing.
I just bought one as well. Kind of neat and handy gadget. It installs right on the headrest. It has a cup holder and storage cubby. Thanks for watching!
You did a good job explaining and made it fun to watch. Thank you😊
Your video is the first that I've seen that demo the way to get into the drivers seat without going outside. Thank you...that was important!
Went from a minivan to Crosstrek. Thanks for the information. Manual seats are great 👍
Very nice!
I have a similar set up in my Forester. I use a bigger cooler that i keep behind the driver seat. I always keep a thick wool blanket over and around the cooler to make the ice last longer. The blanket can be pulled if you get cold. Liked your video and plan on stealing some of your tricks.
This is amazing. Thanks for inspiring me! I was overwhelmed before but now I know I got this! Gonna try to get a birch wood foundation too
Awesome! Let me how it goes!
Grea video. One suggestion: OEM or Amazon has the rain guards with adhesive that allows easy installation and helps keep the rain out if you just lower your ventilation window a couple of inches.
I would’ve installed rain guards. I’ve since had to sell my setup. Sad day. lol.
I went camping yesterday in MN and I took some tips from this video. One tip I can give to you is to disarm the alarm and disarm the noises for when u unlock/lock ur car. Wouldnt want the panic alarm to go off and i cant find the keys 😅. It's easy to do! And I brought ear plugs for when I go to sleep.
Thanks for the info!
I've been looking to buy a camping vehicle, wondering if I could afford it. Then I see this. You're camping in a lifted Impreza, which id what I already drive. Guess I CAN afford it lol. Thanks man.
Perfect! Get out there!
You definitely can do. Granted it depends on how long, your capacity/endurance, and physical size. I'm 6' 250+lbs. I've used my 2020 Impreza twice for car camping two times in two years. The first time was summarily a failure of maybe 4 hours of sleep over 8 hours and learned MANY lessons. Just had my most recent go around a year later and got solid, restful sleep. Except due to a heavy family conversation right at bedtime. But this time another 4 hours, though SOLID straight through! I survived my early ass fishing trip until I drove to my mom's to deliver her rockfish filets and subsequently passed out at her place. Unlike after that first time, I'm excited for round 3.😊
Good stuff Rob!! I've done more of this style of camping when going to mountain bike events over the years. Works great because it can be done in just a parking space at a trail head or Walmart. My old minivan was total luxury for this but now I'm in the truck bed with a topper. Leaving on a rainy morning and not having to pack up a wet tent is a bonus for this style of camping. Thanks for sharing!!!
I see you’re doing all kinds of biking out there! This kind of camping is pretty convenient and comfortable. I do love my hammock backpacking, but this is a nice change of pace. Thanks Joe!
Fantastic, I have been considering the crosstrek and your video is a great help.
Oh good! I’m so glad it helped. Thanks for watching!
Thanks so much! I have a 21 crosstrek and couldn't figure how to even out the back. You made this very simple for me to understand how to get everything packed up!
You’re welcome! I’m glad it helped.
I lived out of a car for 3 week.s Wow man, you made a really good video. Really really good.
Wow, thanks! Glad you enjoyed it!
The little window cup holder is such a great idea! Im in the middle of my no-build setup for my CTW and will be adding these to my list!
Great video btw
Awesome! Let me know how it turns out!
@ worked out great!
Best video all day! Thank you for the great info, quick and precise delivery and awesome humor! Now I’m ready to outfit my Forester for a road trip
Awesome! Let me know how it goes. Thanks for watching!
Great Thursday or Friday night trailhead camper! Almost makes me want to buy a car again! Great video as always Rob. -Subscriber 1000
That’s exactly the idea!! Have I mentioned that you’re the most bestest 1000th sub ever?
Thanks Rob, I got a 2024 Cross Trek, thanks for the suggestions I appreciate it..
I have a Subaru Outback and use the 2/3 seat down with plywood. One full piece. I move the seat up a titch. Because the Outback is longer it doesn't have to go all the way. I use wooden blocks on all 4 points of the platform that I screw gunned into the plywood. The front two are lower than the back two. It lies completely flat. At the back of the platform it is high enough to put bins. The kind of sweater storage bins you would use under your bed at home. Super comfortable with my memory foam mattress and down duvet. I even use sheets and bring my pillow from home. Tons of storage and I love reaching up and opening the sunroof cover to see the stars or watch the rain fall. I went to Home Depot and hand cut window coverings but I like the Weather Tech ones better in your video!
Awesome setup! How has been long term?
Thanks for all of the great info. I'm planning on getting a Crosstrek Wilderness in a few weeks, and am planning to go car camping with it. That sleeping platform is a really good idea.
Awesome! Let me know how it goes.
Love it Fella. Luckily for me my wife is not vertically challenged so I shall make a double bed version of your idea for our Crosstrek. Thank you.😊
Awesome! Let me know how it goes!
ohhh I like this idea of sleeping on the passenger side. I really struggled with getting into the drivers seat from my sleeping area when the driver's seat was pushed all the way forward. Good idea.
Awesome! I have a 21 sport same color, no sunroof. I'm retiring around April 25, plan on overnights at the pacific for beach, also tow a 14ft boat, great ideas.
Thank you for showing such an easy platform.
You’re very welcome! Are making one? Let me know how it turns out!
Good info. I'm in pre-purchase mode, researching my options on cars. Leaning towards a RAV4. Spotting quite a few Crosstrek on the road, they always catch my eye. They look small, but maybe worth my time to look at.
Hmm…hard to beat a Rav4 or Crosstrek. The sheer fact you have those options means you’re doing something right! I love my CT. Checks all my boxes. Keep me updated. Thanks for watching!
I went shopping late last year for a Rav. Ended up with my 24 Crosstrek. Best decision I've made in a while...saved a ton of $$$ for a great vehicle!
This is one of the best videos I’ve seen for someone who is getting started. I have a Forester and I am trying to plan my needs and space so this is an excellent video. I really don’t want to overspend.
Awesome! Let me know what you come up with!
Rob thanks for your bed layout share, been thinking about building a platform for my Subaru and yours is the best idea out there! Thanks!🎉
I have vent visors on all of the windows, which helps with ventilation on rainy days....Also, the Army/Navy surplus store has amazing finds!!! Roof rack storage is awesome. And, because the hatch stays closed, the bike and bike rack stay locked up in back...Your video was amazing!!!
Much appreciated! There are so many more things I wanted to do, but I had to sell the trek. Sad day.
I got a 2019 Crosstrek, and I love camping in it. For being a small SUV, it has plenty room for my fiancèe and me sleeping in it on an air mattress. And the best thing is, it's a Subaru and can take you pretty much anywhere 😊. Thx for the cool video
Very cool! I’m just getting into this side of camping and I’m really liking it. Thanks for watching!
This was a great video for no fuss car campinh. I'll be trying out a similar setup in m y BE Vivian which is smaller, but I'm pretty sure I can fit everything in. I also have a Napier Backroadz tent that can attach to the truno when it's open. I plan to sleep in the car and use the tent for my gear/ kitchen. For my bed I will be using a 4inch foam tri-fold matress. The Vivian folds quite flat and like you I hope to use storage bins to fill in the gap. So Garvin trying it without a sleeping platform. I have all the window screens except the one for the sunroof. I'll have to find one. Thanks for confirming that I'm on the right track.
Thank you for mentioning that you need to unlock the car before getting out. I'm picturing a scenario in which I have to pee bad enough that I'm getting out of the car at night, then the alarm going off. There might be an accident lol Working on putting together my Outback set up.
Haha. That’s a lesson learned very few times. I now have an outback that has been converted for life/work road life. Perhaps there’s some ideas there. Thanks for watching!
Just bought a Crosstrek and this is very helpful! Specifically the bins below the head trick. Thanks!
Glad it helps! You will love it!
Well thought out and impressive! I can imagine it took some time and searching to find containers, etc. with the dimensions that work. 😎
I went to Menards, grabbed a measuring tape and just started stacking, and measuring bins. Lol. Thanks for watching!
i have a subaru outback i put remote start on mine . then i can camp in cold weather if it gets to cold i just start it up and turn on the heat then back to sleep also it gives you
safety. have fun . PS im 80 years old my 2019 sube is getting a little small for me
I enjoyed watching your video Rob. Those little details you talk about make a big difference and help. Well done.
Just sharing as I learn as well. Thanks for watching!
I just built my sleeping platform according to your specs, it’s perfect, thanks for the help🤝🏽🚙
Awesome!!
I would like to do this on my Forester !!!
Great Video explaining everything - cheers from Australia
Right on! I debated quite a bit about getting a forester. Now, I wonder how this kit would do in one. Let me know! Thanks!
Smart stuff for sure. Oddly the thing that stood out was clipping the keys to the headrest post. Have motorcycle camped but now have acquired a 2021 Crosstrek. Great tips!
Nice! Happy camping and thanks for watching!
I’m a huge fan now
Also loved the boxer rumble toward the end
It definitely seems like it works, but one of my suggestions might be to flip the bed board around so that your feet rest on the hinge. I feel like putting the heaviest part of your body on the hinge will eventually start to wear on it. Our feet/legs are considerably lighter than our torsos/heads if that makes sense. Amazing video though! I'll be buying a crosstrek here in a couple days and I'm super excited to have more room to do this type of this (Currently have an '03 Camry haha)
I see your logic. I like the hinge there to access the floor area and to have the correct clearance from the headliner. I don’t see an issue having the hinge on the other side. You’d just have to measure for appropriate clearance. Thanks for watching!
You should actually use the front windows for ventilation as your bed will get wet if it rain. We put garbage can on front seat at night for that
I always thought the crosstrek was one of the best cars on the market. Very capable and good looking.
I agree! Bummer I had to sell it. 😕
cool vid. Kept my attention. Always loved the crosstrek but never had one. My bro has 2 outbacks and a crosstrek, they are well designed cars with a huge following.
I have the same vehicle (2022) and I LOVE the bug screen idea. Never heard or saw them before. Also seeing your stomach made it feel much more relatable for me. Thanks!
Haha. I saw my belly as I was editing. May as well roll with it. lol. I hope the screens workout for ya!
I’d probably switch car emergency bin with supply bin behind passenger seat. Hopefully not needed as often as supply bin. Great video!
I did exactly that! I had to sell the trek though. 😕
Value! Entertainment! Informative and fun. Thanks for the little details! This was awesome. I have the very same car, model, color, and year. Keep living and being you!
Thanks Mike! Are you gonna build it out?
Nice and simple! I take the head rest off of the front passenger seat as well for more clearance, visual range.
Good tip! I’ll give it a go. Thanks for watching!
👍Thanks for the video. Got a lifted 2017 Crosstrek designed for this adventure. 17:48 made me laugh!😂 thanks for that as well!!!
Haha! Got work with what ya got. Keep it moving. lol. Thanks for watching!
Great video Rob. Lots alternative and useful ideas as im currently researching car camping set up for my Vauxhall Corsa and know it can be done well, comfortably and doesnt have to be expensive. You seem like a genuine, funny guy too! 😂
Thanks Carla! I’m still learning and evolving. Similar content coming in the new year. Thanks for watching!
You are hysterical! Lots of good ideas.
Thank you!
Dude, you crack me up. 😂🙌🏼 Thank you for the laughs and knowledge. You have a newer Crosstrek than me, but man.. Was just hanging in the back of it the other night watching the sunset and thought camping/sleeping inside it might not be so bad. Hyped to see what I can do after you shared some things! 🤙🏼
Pretty similar to my setup for my Kia Soul. I actually have a couple of those 2-foot-wide plywood sections (both have piano hinges), to cover the entire back area - I wanted something a little more stable under all the bins on the driver's side. The Soul doesn't provide as much length as the Crosstrek, but I am still able to sleep back there.
Youre super intelligent, this was beyond helpful, thank you!
You're so welcome!
Thanks for the bed platform idea, need one for my Outback.
You’re very welcome. It’s very simple and will work in an outback. I have access to an Outback. Should I show that? Thanks Nicole!
That'd be cool! I've already slept in it on a few trips, I just dealt with the unevenness of it. And I already have that fold up table lol 😆
Great video, I’m going on a around a month long road trip all over the western side of the USA next summer in my 2018 crosstrek and I’m starting to make plans for my sleeping arrangement because i want to be able to sleep sorta wherever if I need to and I don’t want to have to deal with a tent if it gets wet and then I have to depend on a wet tent at the next stop and this gives me a lots of ideas thank you, I’ll probably need to make it more sophisticated to hold everything I need, and to with
stand a month of usege, but like I said this is great for brainstorming thanks!
For sure that Crosstrek/Impreza hump will ruin your night's sleep if you don't plan properly! Especially as ill prepared as I was last year and found out I had to sleep with my head in the hatch to accommodate my 6' tallness. That decline will let you down like the worst coworker you've ever had. All because of that hump right at my hip kept me from any long rest. I tried to save a couple hours night's sleep for a company fishing trip utilizing my 2020 Impreza hatchback and a car camper setup and I guess it ultimately worked ( I arrived on time). I got barely 4 hours total rest with nothing more than 1.5 hours at a time over 8 hours allotted. Thankfully I did some little research and found that the window screening; that was a lifesaver. I learned quite a few additional lessons from last year. I added a platform that was only 40.5" long and fit in the hatch with the rear driver side seat upright. In addition to he basic blankets for padding my mom dug up some extra sleepung bags that added some cushion for net $0. Another huge addition was the rechargeable mini fan. It kept me cool plus it dissipated the humidity inside the car.
And that extra 3" of lip at he hatch area from he floor WILL NOT matter because the interior part of the hatch fits flush when closed. Non factor.
So cool and simple! I have a Crosstrek and was trying to figure out how to deal with the height difference so I don’t have to set up a tent when I camp. I have the folding table already and I have that mattress. So thank you for this video!
Wonderful! Let me know how it works out for you. Thanks for watching!
I am too old to do this but love the idea of Subaru Camping. Good Video.
Pshh..What’s too old? Anyway to get you out there works. Just keep moving. Thanks for watching!
This was really helpful for me to see how the bed platform works. Im considering buying a Crosstrek and seeing your set up, it'll work for me for camping.
Was wondering if the Crosstrek was too small for car camping. Found out it's possible and got a few tips along the way.
It’s possible. Especially if you’re on the shorter side.
I found this video because I'm thinking about getting a Wilderness and trading in my Jeep.
The question I would ask is, What the better daily driver? I really like the Subaru. They’re very off-road capable and are great for everyday. Let me know what you decide. Thanks for watching!
omg. i drive a jeep compass trailhawk and leased them over the past ten years.
get tid of it and get one of these. the new ones looks KICKASS too
Looks like the perfect fit the Crosstrek. I’m thinking about getting the Crosstrek Wilderness soon and you gave me a lot of good ideas. Thanks
Great car. I should’ve waited 1 more year for the wilderness. lol.
Enjoyed the video. I appreciate the dialogue. I’m just now starting to plan my first car camping trip. Good stuff here!
Awesome! Let me know how it goes and thanks for watching!
I have the 2021 sport. Been car camping a couple times. Really like your set up, and how you re-pack for quick exit. Really good ideas I’ll be looking into. Thank you Rob. 👍🏼
Thanks! The system is ever evolving. Thanks for watching!
I'm getting my Cross Trex Tomorrow. !!
Great video! This is very useful information for us since we just got a Crosstrek.
Glad it was helpful. Thanks for watching!
Nice setup, I really like the window and sunroof nets. Thats the first time I've seen that solution. I have a Honda Fit (A.K.A the Battle-Fit) that I am working on setting up for car camping.
Very cool! Yeah, those nets are pretty sweet. Thanks for watching!
That's a great video! I'm about to start a 5,000 mile road trip in my Crosstrek. Thanks for the tips :)
Nice! Where to?
@@robpelton A summer job just outside of Fairbanks, Alaska.
Pretty sweet
Thanks!
a must for me...a trailer hitch hammock stand by McLean Metalworks.
I’ve seen those! How does a rain fly work for those? Thanks for watching!
@@robpelton they work great, shug has a video
Freakin Awesomeness!!! Great info. I'm gonna buy some of that stuff. Thanks for posting this vid.
Riff on! Let me know how it goes!
very cool. I have a 23 just like yours in white with a similar set up.
Sa-weet! I love this car.
On my way to pick up wood for my platform now! Thank you for all the details, great video! Please make more✌🏼
Awesome! Let me know how it goes. I recently had to sell my precious Crosstrek, but am now living in an outback. Thanks for watching!
Nice! Spent around a 100 nights in my Jeep, pretty spartan. I am definitely going to work a lot of your ideas into my next Vehicle.
Oh nice! That’s a lot of road time. Thanks for watching!
Spectacular video , I enjoyed it and learned something. Thanks !
Thanks for watching!
I love seeing these setups! Great Idea with the precut wood at menards. I might have to do that for mine! I've had home depot cut wood for me before and it was all jacked up..
This was a pretty simple build. I did get a little fancy because a buddy had a router and sander. So, I rounded the corners a bit, but this platform works really well. Do it! Thanks Tonya!
Thank you so much for the video. It’s very helpful. Like your Fun personality.
Great setup! Thanks for the run thru! I was laughing about the roof screen - I would need to have some sort of tether cuzz I know I would forget to take it off. I have a Forester so I'm wondering if there's a bit more headroom in the back for sitting up. I had an uncomfortable chair mat last time out, but the floor is more level so didn't need a platform and was able to sit up just barely.
Oh yes. The forester is taller.
This was great! Informative and entertaining. Thank you for sharing!!
Thanks for talking me out of ever getting a Crosstrek. I'll never be able to fit my bicycle with the front wheel off in the back end while I sleep.
Nope! I had trouble getting my bike in by itself.
I sleep in my outback, instead of the long folding plywood I switched to enough board between the front and back seat with a rope over the front seat for support then add the blow up pad and and a blanket under to smooth out the ripples. The bike less the front wheel is ratcheted to the hand grab.
In my 21' Crosstrek, I fill the foot area with a 2" Extruded Foam Board.
I use an inflatable mattress, but would love to find a rollable or foldable mattress to better match a standard bed comfort.
Most every other aspect of your set up is what I do as well.
🙏 ⚓️ ☀️ 🚗 🏕️
I like the foam pad, but wish it was little thicker. I can just barely feel the platform. I am 205lbs though. Haha. Thanks for watching!
Question, is there room for the both of us to snuggle in there?
Mmmmmaybeeee!