$7 Harbor Freight Overland, SUV, Mini Van, Camper Awning. DIY Shade. How To

Here I make an Awning for my Mini Camper using a $7 Harbor Freight Tarp. Cheap DIY project for instant shade. You can follow my lead on the poles and rope or you can use old tent poles. People have been known to use extendable paint poles etc. Rope can be clothes line or any suitable rope. The tarp reflects sunlight, is water and wind proof. It has grommets every 18" and so is easy to customize to any vehicle.
Learn to tie a tautline hitch knot here: www.netknots.c...
Buy 9x7 heavy duty tarp here: www.harborfrei...
Buy Tent telescoping tent Poles: amzn.to/2Es3wBJ
Buy Paracord: amzn.to/34KEokq

[@fixmeuphandyman]

$7 headline went out the window when you showed that you bought $40 amazon tent poles.....good video though lol

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

See description.

[@randomrangoon5476]

No,he said using a $7 dollar tarp. Granted the main title doesn't say that but still

[@Armilar255]

im probably late, and i dont know if in your country you have access to aliexpress, but there you have the same exact model he show in the video and ppl are trying to sell in amazon for 40€ at 19€ the pair, i know bcz i have got mine there

[@salbahejim]

That last bit whee you used a cord to take up the extra slack: I bet a couple of small bungee cords would have made that a snap!

[@paulshamblin6260]

Pretty sure Walmart has those in the paint department cheap too.

[@markrossnagel4680]

Although I try my best to purchase items made in the USA, I have come to realize that the stores that are employing my fellow citizens are helping to feed their families via a pay check. But Harbor freight fills a need and helps keep things affordable. "Hi, my name is Mark and I have TAS." "Hi Mark!" Very good "how to" video. Stay safe and God bless.

[@saml.5727]

I love your comment regarding comments buy only made in USA...as I type this on my Samsung. Truth.

[@pangushk]

Agree. Ironically at least 99% of them were making those comments using smartphones, tablets, and computers not made in USA.

[@adreabrooks11]

This is so crazy! I just "invented" this same solution a couple of weeks ago, on my last camping trip! In my case, though, it's a larger tarp, but a smaller vehicle - a 14x18-foot tarp and a Pontiac Vibe. I secure the middle two grommets to the roof racks as you did, and run the tarp on a downward angle away from them, securing the corners with a short guy line. I use a set of telescoping poles for the end points, exactly as you have done. With the longer tarp, I set a second pair of poles (rigged slightly higher) in the middle. These I secure with a pair of guy lines at a 45-degree angle. It's amazing how similar needs create similar solutions! In my case, the small car doesn't provide a lot of living space - so the bigger tarp gives me a bit of room to stretch my legs on a rainy day. I slept under it comfortably on this trip. However, I think I might put a tent at the opposite end from the car during bug season, with a "living room" in between. I also think (though I have yet to try it) that the longer tarp would offer an additional advantage: by removing the end poles and rigging the end closer to the ground, it can provide shelter from the wind and really driving rain, without having to lower the "peak poles" in the middle. Thanks for the video! Nice to see I'm not entirely loco with my concepts. 😁

[@momofrex4183]

Cool setup! You might want to consider wrapping some sort of fabric/sponge, etc. around the bungee cord hook and grommet area, to protect the vehicle paint from getting scratched.

[@prophetseven728]

Good Job on the Tarp! Way to think out of the Box!

[@neddmoulton1]

This is really good. I've looked 10000 times before and this is the best and easiest way I've seen thus far. Great job so simple

[@donaldmcmillan5529]

We did something similar but we used a longer tarp and extended it out across our tent to act as a rain fly then used the back of the van as a table setup to assist with cooking and etc. Used 6 poles to make a nice area between the van and the tent.

[@keithblume5159]

Do you recall what poles you used? These poles are $36/pair

[@donaldmcmillan5529]

@@keithblume5159 Our poles aren't so portable as a hiker would use. We used PVC pipe cut to the length we wanted them. So we spent about $30 on all of it.

[@michwenz8413]

Great video! I’m planning to do the same thing with a wider tarp that will go to the ground, since I’m a solo female camper. I measured my car and 16x12 will make me a tunnel of privacy for $70. Who needs a $389 suv tent? Not me!

[@staxter6]

Good result, those stakes are actually reasonable quality and match the design characteristics of high end types.

[@diostejastierras7898]

*Yes!*, I was looking for someone to comment on this. *They are identical to the MSR tent stakes.* They retail for about $20 for 4 or 6 of them. This is a great deal just with that included. 😂 Also, I have seen those extended poles in higher ends brands, I just can't remember at this moment. It may even be a shade cover poles from MSR too. *Take Care & Safe Travels Everyone!*

[@mrjeff2396]

Love the set. Only thing I think to add is a pool noodle for the tail lift. Even a slight breeze is enough to cause a friction mark on the tail lift.

[@DM-pc4vs]

Attach the two rear bungie cords to the wheels - a better tie-down angle to stiffen out the tarp at those locations - like you did with the extension poles. I have a similar canopy for my minivan designed and secured to manage extreme weather: blazing hot sun, strong winds, heavy rain, sleet, snow load, etc. Nothing like a protected space to enjoy outside the vehicle. Thanks for the great video.

[@creatingmycampingvan4204]

How long are your bungee cords?? TIA

[@Simplelifepreps]

My son works for Harbor Freight! Keep on shopping!!!

[@rickperales8544]

Just found this guy, like the way he does things

[@tarawhite986]

Thank you for supporting American made products. We need more people like you supporting jobs here. Local production is more ethical too

[@rosemariebredahl9519]

Btw, magnets are a good way to hold mosquito netting over doorways & windows. Some netting is non-fraying, so doesn't need seams. Word of advice: tiny ziplock baggies both help protect vehicle surfaces and also can have neon paint squirted in for when you drop one at night.

[@mistahjay_racing2751]

Looks like it works perfectly

[@dangerpudge1922]

Good stuff man. It's so easy to get caught up in more complex, heavier, and much more expensive things for overlanding. I have started to take a look at 'the old days' when folks would traverse hostile lands in Model As and Ts on serious expeditions. They certainly didn't have any fancy RTTs, shower systems, various enclosures... I think simple, light, and economical is the name of the game. As a rule, the more simple something is, the more robust it is (or the easier it is to repair). The lighter it is, the easier to haul. The smaller it is, the easier to pack. Thanks man!

[@pmmp855]

I frikin love Harbor Freight

[@larentaestamuyalta6132]

Millions of jobs that we need. I remember when everything was made in the USA

[@gordondavies7773]

If you only buy US made products do not be surprised if US companies go bust because they cannot export their priducts because everyone else only buys home produced goods.

[@gordondavies7773]

If you only buy US made goods dp not be surprised if US companies lose all their export markets because every one else only buys home produced good

[@bcgrittner]

Another clever idea and cost effective. As for Harbor Freight, I suggest be selective. And, the thicker silver tarps are the way to go. The amount of use your awning gets should result in very long life. Well done.

[@cobbler88]

The poles are the issue. They add so much cost that the DIY version suddenly is competing with premade products on Amazon now that it's two years later. I encourage people to experiment, though. I tried using one of these tarps with a couple of trekking poles, making a tent. You definitely have to be willing to pay for a more bulletproof tarp. When it came time to secur the poles, the grommets just tore away from the tarp body and through the hem.

[@ourtruth216]

M a solo female and not a builder, also don’t have much money for expensive “American made” products . Love this video sweet and easy! Thank you 🤗💕

[@madcratebuilder]

Poor mans SlumberJack, great idea.

[@bonniepwtf]

Simple, great solution. Thanks for sharing it.

[@JimmyD_C172]

I am pre-TAS. Right now, I literally have no room to store tools. We plan to move within the next 24 months, it is then we will have to monitor my symptoms. ;) Thanks for the PSA! The more you know... and, nice execution of the tarp setup.

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

Good luck with the TAS. Being a bachelor, I just give into it.

[@zencorners]

My stupid point of view: Cheap tools help get people using tools. Which means that we can still build up on great vocational talent. I have a love/hate relationship with tools, but I'm still glad that my dad at least taught me how to change the oil on my car, and swap out the garbage disposal. Sometimes, I need a small way to get some knowledge in building my cheap version before building the final version.

[@mabelchong5609]

You inspired me to make my first HF purchase ever. Product arriving tomorrow. Keep up the humor!!

[@OhHapppyDaay]

Driving to Harbor Freight in a Tesla to purchase a $6.99 tarp . 😃That's how one affords a Tesla. Practical. I love the music in this video. I think you might try it longways across the hatch and you'll get more coverage along the sides.

[@bear8046]

I spent $300 on a MoonShade. You spent $7 on the same thing. .....fack.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

And if he needs throw it on the ground to crawl under the van in the mud one day, it won't matter.

[@qrs3658]

lol....

[@djtblizzle]

😂😂😂

[@xxsuperbirdxx]

Most people are not very self reliant as you, sir

[@nmr6988]

This would be one of the first items I would buy. Being a Native Texan, you know the value of shade.

[@Gruuvin1]

You can fish for more clicks when your video title is a lie. Well done.

[@richardbottslotsandmore5696]

Great video...A friend of mine spent over 500 for an awning for his transit. I think this is more better..lol..Gave me ideas for my grand caravan..Thank You..

[@bindiberry6280]

This is good idea! This should also allow the roof rack to extend light weight 4 ft PVC pipes both sides so you can add plastic sheets as sun shades for your rest area camping around your SUV.

[@iQuantium]

No flop no flap & infinitely adjustable camping tarp! WooWho Infinity and beyond!!! hahaha love it.

[@charliecharlie7898]

Awesome idea my man. You have the most pleasant voice and personality.

[@arnedac9399]

Great video saved me so much money. God Bless you!

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

So simple and doesn't take up much room. Thank you 😊

[@rowdysgirlalways]

This is darned clever! I agree that a tarp over the rear hatch is more practical than the side, although, you could go crazy and do both. Excellent thinking and doing. As to buying American, good luck. I buy what I need and can afford. If someone doesn't approve, they can buy me what they approve of. Problem solved. It's like when I bought my Nissan Rogue 13 years ago and some guy scolded me for not buying American. Well, I told him, I've owned Chryslers, Dodges, Chevys and GMs, and this is my last car so I need something really dependable. He went away. And I have no complaints about my Rogue. It's a lovely little SUV.

[@bellevue260]

I certainly prefer to buy American, but many times there is no alternative as you said. I'm boycotting Harbor Freight for my own reasons, but their value is pretty good for the average person who uses tools occasionally. All the best, always a fun video!

[@nevadabadger7925]

Father’s Day greetings from Reno, Nevada.

[@stephenolaughlin6595]

Great idea! Those poles are the real game changer.

[@ronachadwick7908]

Nice simple setup. Good one. I just got back from wild wet camping. Wind and rain and flooding.

[@jackiegarbarino6243]

You’ve got me watching your videos - I don’t build things or camp - but I like the way you describe everything clearly, it makes me think I could install a mini split AC or upgrade a camper all by myself lol

[@MrsAnnThropy]

Harbor Freight is a godsend if you know what you’re looking for.. people claiming their stuff is bad quality are telling on themselves for not knowing what’s good x: also, I consistently suffer from TAS thank you for naming it

[@MrsAnnThropy]

There are obviously just some things (certain tools, certain fixtures) you don’t buy at a cheaper price if you want it to last a lifetime, but if you take care of your things you’ll get good use out of most things there, better use if you vet the supplies you need

[@CoolEyeColorado]

I like harbor freight stuff...nothing wrong with it! Keep up the good. Ideas!

[@dragan3290]

Excellent video! Ignore negative people. 🙂

[@overlanding116]

Great job... I'm going to do that on the back of my camper shell. Keep making videos like this.

[@mmmasterscross7915]

Thanks Steve! Great idea and video!

[@jeanariley7759]

Love it! Have made several of my own. Actually used both telescoping tent and paint poles. For my van, used side door mount and pvc at front and rear of tarp. Telescoping paint poles complete top frame for a nice taught square at top. Tent pole legs and stake it down. Attaches to van with mini quick fist rubber "clamps." What you did will be great for my Element rear! Thanks!

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

Sounds great!

[@thedaddechannel]

Thanks for your time. Lots of work, for sure. Great video!

[@tlk2dpawtalktothepaw455]

Been watching for a long time. This, by far, was the most entertaining video so far and I have thoroughly enjoyed all your videos. Just something a little different with this one, lighter, even more clever comedy content. LOVED IT!! Thank you for sharing your life with us.

[@V.Hansen.]

Infinitely variable. Tas. Adjusting the pivot point. Flop free. Your vocabulary makes me happy. Also good ideas.

[@Northstardanes]

I used to do a similar tarping system with my Envoy, then my Tahoe! I really like those telescoping poles! They are handy! I used to tie tarp ends to trees or connect ends to an 8x8 ez-up I had.

[@rhllnm]

Thanks. Got a new 2007 Tacoma, went camping and rain (I'm in New Mexico, I don't deal with rain often). Set me up and had a great time with two puppies and rain drizzling all night long. Glad I watched your video first and took bungies, rope and a big tarp (I had trees instead of poles).

[@ronpeted]

I hope you don't mind me saying this Steve, but that was an entertaining vid .

[@MarcillaSmith]

how dare you

[@cindybetts8341]

I'm thinking about possibly living in my SUV. This kind of video is REALLY HELPFUL to people like me! My main concern is that I have Osteoporosis and the fear of falling and shattering bones holds me back! Thank you for sharing!!! 💕

[@robertottwell605]

I would get one more pole, or a dowel that’s the width of the tarp run it under your roof rack with hooks on each end to attach to the ends of your tarp, so your tarp is square stills covers the hatch gives more shade and is not rubbing on your paint because it will in wind and rain.

[@pugluvr6435]

I would definitely be concerned with the bungees rubbing the paint - I'd use a pool noodle spacer, or cloth or something to stop it from touching the paint, as I do like the way it curves around the vehicle.

[@bd57713333]

Great idea, Robert

[@cillaloves2fish688]

Thx Robert! I didn't think of that...

[@deannsuleman9372]

Very smart. Easy and perfect.

[@anthonychihuahua]

Ah, "TAS" ..that explains a lot. Treatment is *obviously* to acquire the tool?! 🔧

[@FirstSuiGeneris]

_Right! [ smiling ] That's why my shop is bigger than my house, now! TAS... lol_

[@ericg7183]

I must have chronic GAS (Gun Acquisition Syndrome).

[@cillaloves2fish688]

@@ericg7183 Ha! Ha! Good one!

[@thefirststrike]

I have Fishing TAS. You know what they say right? Most fishing tackle is made the catch the fisherman and not the fish! LOL

[@CodeyyW]

This is a pretty sick diy awning!

[@PaulSter]

First time seeing you. Funny, informative, correct, and kind. We just now need more like you!

[@carverolson8782]

Good idea, thank you for sharing

[@paulabrown-smith3290]

So.. as I was skipping thru some of the videos for a SUV hatchback shade/awning thingy, I came across one that was similiar to what you made but where the flaps were flapping, that part was all mesh netting. I really like the idea of sitting in back looking at the scenery while it rains without being devoured by mosquitoes. I love camping but unfortunately, I am sensitive to the bites. But information was great and I'm sure you'll come up with another cool hack for the netting.. Until the next one..

[@anitasimmons3599]

Paula Brown-Smith. Purchase a cot net and secure it with magnets. They are not too expensive, or go to a fabric store and get some ballet tool.

[@paulabrown-smith3290]

Anita Simmons I made my own window screen from sheer curtains and it worked great. Was kinda difficult to sew and frustration came on but with a couple “step away and woo-saw” moments I finished it. Thanks for additional tip!

[@anitasimmons3599]

@@paulabrown-smith3290 Thank you, for the update. I have sewn bug netting before for head nets and bivy bags but I found that, kids, dogs or husband managed to damage them so, l just go magnets now for the vehicles. Netting is one of the harder materials to sow. Congratulations on your bug free project. I hope you get many years of service from your screens.

[@LeilanisJourney]

Enjoyed...thanks. I love Harbor Freight.

[@ricks.1318]

ALWAYS a thumbs Up, Steve !!!! A very economical way to add some outdoor "living" space when camping .... GOOD tips :) :)

[@eldjmasterfreddy3094]

I like harbor freight is a real good store

[@Linescrew1Canada]

1978 called and asked for their adult film score background music back. But at least you said you're keeping it "flop free". Excellent job.

[@vjhurstcreations5473]

Hmmm, add a 6.5x6.5 ft mosquito net room and since I live in a minivan I'll put it off the side...wow...great vid.

[@MoBangFoYoBucks]

😂😂😂TAS! It grabbed a hold of me Everytime at HF.

[@rogerstarkey5390]

I call it "MCDS" Man cave deficiency syndrome

[@Annie-zf7xi]

Cool idea! That will work just fine.

[@MasterArmedforces]

Been decades since I took geometry, but I believe what youre calling 90 degrees, is actually 45

[@nomoreblahblah]

I've used Golf Ball retrieval poles that telescope, pool cleaner telescoping poles, and painter's poles. Sometimes find them in thrift stores or on trash day when people throw them away cause the tip end broke which doesn't ruin it for my repurposing purposes (say that fast 5X). However, coming up with a plan and buying the parts works too.

[@grantman103]

Awesome rig. I love the 4 runner also. I just ordered the tent poles! All the best to you and yours.

[@ron4jon]

I agree about TAS. It hits me often.

[@landonashby2029]

I like those tarp poles they've been sitting in my cart for a while. Anyone looking for a less expensive DIY solution for extendable tarp poles, 4'-8' expandable painter poles. Drill and put a Stainless Steel Lag Bolt 🔩 in the end then grind off the head...about $7 each.

[@josegoodwin8812]

thank you for the time you take making informative videos practical money-saving tips We don't need to spend a fortune to get out comfortably

[@MayhemRv]

Harbor Freight sucks.... I go there all the time!

[@jamesireland9188]

Lol ok that's your opinion

[@Momo-xs8mo]

James Ireland its a joke

[@jerrymc9495]

lol

[@lawmoments]

Hahaha

[@rogerstarkey5390]

@@really_real (It's called "a sense of humor")

[@jimflanagan6029]

Hey X S, 1. I did duplicate this project. 2. Now everyone is getting the Moon Shade. Your idea is the same and a Ton cheaper . Thanks again NJ .

[@galardmills5306]

I sometimes slap together something as an rapid prototype, knowing that I will evolve the solution to something more durable later. Da kine silver tarp is good until the wind rises above 1 knot, then I would be ordering one of the lightweight awnings like KingCamp, made for SUVs. (The image you went to the trouble to flash in your video.) However, the awning made an amusing platform for your “Made in China” rant!

[@bd57713333]

Amazon has some cool covers

[@billrehm3590]

Harbor freight has some nice tent stakes

[@Remaagen]

American made tools. Snap On, Mac, Matco, Bondhus. You'll pay an arm and a leg for Snap On.

[@anitasimmons3599]

Unless you get lucky and find them now and then on the side of a road.

[@IggnantOG]

Great job man. Simple and good.

[@cityslickeroutdoors8306]

I’m always looking at diy shelter ideas. For poles, I found telescoping poles at sportsman’s warehouse for $12.50 each. They are stansport brand or one of those cheap camping brands.

[@actiondisplays]

You got my thumbs up at 1:25 into your vid after your TAS warning! It's now 1:45 in the morning, I live in chronic pain, hence have become a YT junkie trying to divert my mind and hopefully, eventually get to sleep. And your TAS warning cracked me UP! So I don't know if I should thank your for the diversion and chuckle, or curse you for keeping me awake with laughter? In any case, I'll continue with the rest of your vid and hopefully find a happy medium. Great vid so far, keep up the good work... You sick-oh! OK, back to your vid! 🤣 OK, finished your vid and once again, Great job! All the best, -Mike

[@paulmfti]

Was looking in to how to,do this from the back of my Tacoma shell....perfect...Thanks Steve. Curious what you did for work prior to retiring....if I had to guess, engineering, or something of that sort...? It seems you a have some sort of unique tool for almost every project you work on in your garage...smart cookie...

[@chrisgreene9147]

Paul Smith if you go to the very beginning of his videos he talks about that and how he’s retired early. Well worth the watch. It’s within the first 10 videos he’s posted

[@paulmfti]

Chris Greene thx....I’m surprised he doesn’t have more views...thanks for the tip...

[@GG-dq6dx]

This is info I can really use. Thank you! Great presentation!

[@denisstitt9413]

Just relax but beware. There are still good people out here but there are still idiots too. Good job on the tarp your on the right track!👋😁

[@Nancy-xg9nc]

People dis HF..but they employ 20000 people in the US. For people just learning or needing a tool for 1 or 2 time use, it is a great alternative to the big box stores. Nice video!

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

Great point

[@joshakaoger69]

Few more tarps and you have a shelter 🤣 or "office"

[@551slobo]

great idea. Love Harbor Freight

[@joshwhatf]

The poles where 42... I'm here because it said 7

[@DelRJohnston]

Josh Stahl America! Frack yeah! Whassup, buddy?

[@jbkaufman3621]

Tree branch

[@btakin8737]

I experienced TAS today at HB. My faith may not be fully restored in humanity but, it is certainly instilled in Xplorer Steve! Great video.😊

[@mr.t5388]

Hey my Brother don't pay no mine to the Nay sayers... They are the one's who let their wives make all the decisions and do not let their husbands go to Harbor Freight... 🤣🤣🤣

[@BubbaPat]

Your channel came up as a random hit and I'm glad!! Enjoyed it! HFT... isn't going to have a lot of items made in USA because the name of the company says it all... HARBOR FREIGHT. I used to work there and they have been continually improving their quality search though. Plus.. you are correct that other companies have very little "made in America' items. LOVED your video! I had a similar idea but never did it and you just showed me how so I Don't have to screw up first. For those giving grief about the poles... you could use PVC pieces. Great video! You have a new follower. THANKS!!

[@philc.9280]

I love to support American made products whenever I can but its not unpatriotic to buy value whenever you can. If you can't do this then you shouldn't be shopping at Walmart or Target too. I get the best price where ever I can and have a lot of money saved for the future as I do everything myself like you do. A good example on how I was burned buying American products was in the 70"s through the 90's buying Chrysler, GM and Ford. I don't know where to start on how many thousands I wasted on blown transmissions, electrical issues, engine leaks, etc. on cars that I take very good care of. We've been driving Toyota's and Honda's since. However many of those are made in America with Japanese parts now. I picked up one of those pop up 8 x 8 canopies that also back up to the truck which might be more stable than your set up in a strong wind as they have a frame for support. However the cheapest I've seen them were $49 at Big 5 sports (with a coupon and yes made in china too)

[@XplorerSteveDIY]

Those were not good years for US cars for sure. They have since caught up...

[@philc.9280]

@Doug Sawdy A leaky drain plug is nothing compared to a blown transmission that was well maintained. Your plug is probably stripped.

[@kate4biglittlevoices]

That’s what I’m talking about! The most fun about camping is setting up and designing the “camp”

[@rickbott6099]

Harbor freight carries Pittsburgh tools made in Pittsburgh Pa.which is better than craftsman, snap on, and others and guaranteed for life. Im a mechanic and love Pittsburgh tools

[@timetriad6199]

Actual awning discussion starts at 5:17

[@SS-bz4ze]

I've seen it done with 8ft PVC pipes as poles instead those are 3.50 at home Depot... An you can get a cheep bag of thick stakes for the anchor points like you have but also another bag to shove the thick plastic stakes inside the bottom of the pipes so they can be pushed down into the soft ground also making them more stable in the wind.... With the same low cost tarp... Holds well Paracord is fantastic... 👍🥇👍🙋

[@RideAlongAdventures]

I dig your style, dude. Good video.