Full-Time SUV Living with Pets! (Ford Expedition Camping Setup Tour)

In this video we meet up with Barbara, who lives full-time in her 2018 Ford Expedition, and she has her little dog and cat with her. This is a tour of her camper setup and how she makes everything work while on the road.
** Here's Barbara on KZbin: / @barbararahm
** Here's Barbara on TikTok: / barbararahm
► Adventure Know-How: adventureknowh...
► The SUV RVing Website: suvrving.com/
BARBARA'S GEAR
(NOTE: An asterisk to the right of the item means that Barbara didn’t have a direct link to exactly what she bought, so I’ve found a link to what seems to be a similar product. These are Amazon affiliate links where applicable.)
** Bunk warmer*: amzn.to/3M55Crr
** Jackery 1000 power station: amzn.to/3JW6Keg
** Traction/recovery boards*: amzn.to/3M4cSnm
** Red/green/blue tap lights: amzn.to/3ZzQFAB
** Hanging light bulbs: amzn.to/3ZsVKei
** Pink light switch*: amzn.to/3nAy2iZ
** Crown Shades canopy/awning*: amzn.to/42S9vGd
** 5x7 mat for sand*: amzn.to/3lVHsVG
** Butane stove: amzn.to/3JQAAkc
** Folding grill: amzn.to/40PGrx4
** Cooler: amzn.to/3M9FKLf
** Air compressor: amzn.to/3G6uI5z
** Tow strap: amzn.to/3ZoST65
** Tire deflator: amzn.to/3KlfbBn
** Folding shovel: amzn.to/3zqxHlj
** Tires: www.discountti...
OTHER LINKS
** Gear I use: suvrving.com/gear
** SUV RVing the Book: amzn.to/2SUrtme (Affiliate link)
** The blog: suvrving.com
** Instagram: / suvrving
** My other KZbin channel: / tenkaraaddict
#adventure #travel #camping

[@SUVRVing]

Thanks for watching! If you want to follow along with Barbara's adventures, you can find her on KZbin and TikTok: * Barbara on KZbin: www.youtube.com/@barbararahm * Barbara on TikTok: tiktok.com/@barbararahm -Tristan

[@dvdschaub]

I'm glad she included her personal journey in the video. Super inspiring woman!

[@danp3677]

I love the videos you do. I love the rigs but I think the people and their stories are fascinating. I love how you introduce the video then "disappear" to let the people explain the rigs and when they get into their stories and backgrounds, that is when it becomes so much more than a car camping video. Thanks a bunch. I am learning a lot and would love to bump into you some day as I am in SoCal and your videos are all about the areas I want to explore.

[@larrydraper4451]

She said it perfectly "I paid my dues". I feel the same way. No more rules, except for camping etiquette. Solo and free to roam and explore with no time limit to be back home. The difference for me is I plan my trips with reservations so I know I have a place to stay. I haven't got to the place that you are where you just go find a camp site. I haven't evolved that far yet. Good video on how basic camping can be and how enjoyable it can be by yourself. Pets are family.

[@summerstardust2064]

You will get better at being confident of finding campsites the more you do it and begin seeing how simple it is and how enjoyable it is. Hang in there 👍

[@renebleu8711]

Good luck Larry been living this life the past 2 years and I’m super happy. I finally have felt a peace, I’ve never felt in my life. But I’m only 28 and the amount of money you save 😮 lol… Safe travels. The world is going to hell in a hand basket- let’s live a little 😊

[@gailbutler483]

Wow! While I don't full-time live in my Jeep, so much of what Barbara does resonates with my own car camping philosophy and practices. I'm inspired by the fact that she travels with her pets. Soon, I will be traveling with my older kitty as boarding is too expensive and having someone cat-sit for me is no longer an option. Very inspiring!

[@keithbrookshire]

I'm constantly amazed at the variety of rigs out there from super cheap to ultra expensive. It looks like Barbara has her ideal setup and it didn't cost very much at all. She's an inspiration that anyone can do this.

[@karen11]

Great video. I especially loved the human back story, and how much Barbara enjoys being outside in nature.

[@Deanna52ish]

Love your story Barbara and your comprehensive set up. You have everything you need, including companionship. Thank you Tristan for bringing Barbara's story to us.

[@SUVRVing]

Thanks for watching, Deanna!

[@wanderlust62]

Thank you, Tristan. I love Barbara's philosophy and understand even as an extrovert who has been tied down as an educator far more stationery than I prefer! I just sold my home. I'll be 62 this time (literally) next year and am looking forward to living the stifled gypsy in me.

[@louisepotier2784]

I love the term - stifled gypsy. If you don't mind, I will borrow it. Have a great day! 🙂

[@lindasue8719]

I love this woman! 👍🏻👍🏻I get so excited when I hear SUV setups since the majority are for minivans. I still wrestle with moving out of my beloved SUV, but I love the vehicle so much I find it hard to part with it. However, my setup gets annoying sometimes. I love this idea of getting a bed in there! It would be great to have a bed PLUS storage under it!! ❤

[@summerstardust2064]

Love that she shares her life with her kitty and doggie.👍

[@Myyt6908]

great setup. Barbara is a healthy active woman to be admired. Love the pets too!

[@pattyk8594]

She did a great job with her no-build build. I love the idea of seeing outside all of the windows and how she keeps warm with electric bedding hooked up to jackery!

[@Wanderepicearth]

Wow. Much respect. She decided to stop and experience the things she passed by while driving for work. That is inspiring

[@bridgetmuehlberger5141]

Great rig, Barbara! Also… Introverts Unite! Separately! In your own homes! 😊❤

[@carrie5813]

Thank you for letting her tell her story and why she decided to do this lifestyle. That was my favorite part…very inspiring!

[@JessieCori]

Barbara, I really like your attitude and your set up and ideas! Thank you for sharing!😊

[@jessiehead6525]

Thank you! I’ve been wanting to see a Ford Expedition. I love that you introduce the person and then let them do the talking without constant interruptions or questions. (Although I know there are interviewees out there who need to be guided by the interviewer). You always seem to pick people who express themselves well. Or maybe that’s just your skillful editing!

[@mariawalsh335]

Thanks for posting this new video supporting the other KZbinrs....good luck working in your new house. Congratulations to your wife's graduation, and I will keep watching this channel since the fishing channel is going to take a break

[@SUVRVing]

Thanks Maria!

[@escapeartist25]

Thank you for sharing! I have been "practicing" in my small SUV for several years. I like the space your rig has. Happy travels Tristan and Barbara!

[@stevearita3267]

Great to see your rig Barbara, thanks Tristan for doing this video.

[@staciamwalrus]

Thank you for showing us the kitty!

[@kelliephoenix]

Great set up, very well thought out! Love her mindset! 😊❤️

[@LibertyLeslie]

Thanks for sharing Barbara....We are the same age and retired during Covid. You are living the dream.

[@susie9893]

Ppl living with animals in such a small space give me hope I can do the same just on my own. Looks like a cosy set up and I don't even need this much (in terms of bedding, accessories and pet stuff). My biggest priority is being able to sit upright too. Everything else has to work around that imo. Thanks for the video

[@denisekenney2027]

Thank you Tristan and Barbara! Barbara you are an inspiration. I was amazed to see your kitty not on a leash but she is 16 and knows to stay close to her family!

[@rayb.hopkins9709]

Retired owner operator. 33 years. I am going to begin camping because of what you said. I went so many places I would like to visit. Delivery of freight then reloading to keep revenue flow I did not really get to see places. Learning from others here to improve my last years camping.

[@susanauer6715]

She was awesome. A good soul.

[@gt2745]

Awesome lady with great outlook on life.

[@WanderingWithWanda]

I cant sleep great if my windows arent covered. I don't like Sasquatch peeking in my windows at night watching me sleep. I like her set up, thanks for the video!

[@DreamingOfAK]

I feel the same! I love the idea of the sunrise streaming in, so I might have to try it.

[@barbarafritchie2000]

Awesome. Thanks.

[@archanaudupa210]

Love how u seeing and enjoying life and love ur enthusiasm. U r such an inspiration. Ur camper is filled with some very clever ideas. Sending u loads of love❤❤❤

[@lind5180]

I admire her and it is obvious that she is content with herself and lifestyle

[@derrickclemons2862]

Nice, I camped for many years in my 2004 Ford Expedition. With the 2nd and 3rd row seats down, I slept (very comfortably, I might add) on an air mattress.

[@laurienichols8059]

Great setup Barbara!!!

[@cindynichols27]

This was terrific. So much fun to see how people do it. This went a little on the fast side--I found myself wondering about details Barbara kind of flew over or I wasn't able to see what she was pointing to at times. But what a together human being! She obviously knows who she is and how nice to see that. Totally wonderful. I plan to look her up!

[@debbieweckler6832]

Excellent 👍👍

[@vernonbell1628]

Great video! Good information and very inspiring!

[@tpod892]

I do like videos that show fancy, complex (and sometimes downright ingenious) setups and rigs, but I also love videos that show simply functional setups that work for the people (and pets) that live in them. It really does go to show that you don't necessarily need all the bells and whistles to have a happy van-/carlife.

[@kimprocarione5473]

Another excellent suv camper setup! I live one town up from Eureka in Arcata ❤ I came very close to buying an Expedition! I have ended up with a 2010 Honda Pilot, which is the largest Pilot. My daughter gave her to me. I'm not sure I have as much headspace as her. Maybe ...🤔 so I find your suv tours quite interesting. I had a Dodge Caravan, which I miss! But, she was totaled. Bummer day!

[@Barley150]

That was fun, Tristan. I'm more interested in your adventures than I am in gear, but this woman is so charming and direct. --charlie, sacramento

[@air4334]

I really enjoyed this video about how you have been living in your Expedition. It's good you have back up place in case things change....having a sticks and bricks must make you feel really secure even though you don't want to live in it now. You are very organized ! Thanks for sharing your life.

[@bobculhane4746]

Barbara love ❤️ your setup very roomy. Never thought of a doggy 🐕 dishwasher 😂

[@bobculhane4746]

I did the same bed in my rav4 last spring for a month in Colorado Utah and Az

[@1ACL]

Looks like she has a good understand of herself and her needs re society and self.👍

[@deetrvl4life875]

Another fine video! Great intro to Barbara, thanks! Nice setup and she’s so relaxed, awesome ❤

[@flynnsylvest257]

I loved the musical theme for Bella the cat. And it was a great and very helpful tour. Thank you, Tristan!

[@1957Dirogo]

My dog is also the pre-wash. 😊

[@3generations393]

Thank you both-I have never been able to train a cat. Great job Barbara 👍🙏🙏💞

[@joecutro7318]

Inspiring and lovely person! Thank you for including her setup and story on your platform! 😊👍🙏

[@funzeevanzee]

Great video of her setup.

[@DreamingOfAK]

❤ Love these tours of other rigs, Tristan. Folks have such great ideas for saving and utilizing space.

[@emoya2831]

I would love to get some feedback from people like her that prefer living in an suv rather than a Westfalia styled camper more comfortable and made with all required amenities? I do suv camping but it’s because I use the suv for regular daily use when not camping, but if living there I would think such style small camper would be better, but I am not sure.

[@mtaylor2901]

Another great video! Thanks Barbara for sharing your rig and a tiny bit of your story…. Very inspiring….

[@rachelrachel3146]

What a fantastic story ❤thank you for,sharing and it’s time for you to enjoy what you love ❤️

[@timothyTNM117]

I never thought of a bunk warmer. May get me one. I’ve made do with a heated blanket so far but under-side heat would be nice.

[@lloydguarnes2021]

Nice.. She's very thorough. Thanks for sharing.

[@llorylloyd]

Awesome, I enjoy how Tristan let's the owner describe their setup.

[@mysimplevanlife]

Hi there, thank you for this video, yes it is true, you can turn almost any vehicle into a camper. I turned my Hyundai Getz into a mini camper and it works very well for me. Happy Trails and Safe Travels

[@RLeeVanCamps]

Great mindset. It’s her time now! Thanks for sharing.

[@johnsoutdooradventures3293]

Great video! Thank you!

[@WaqasTaqee]

thanks

[@masonstruckadventure9368]

How inspiring and tons of room in that expedition. Thanks for sharing

[@onrycodger]

How Cool 😎 I just subscribed to her channel and looking forward in seeing her videos. 👍

[@walterbright1396]

I like to get away for quick trips in Utah to Mt. bike and to save time basically camped in my rented Expedition which I found cavernous even with my bike case in there. Just wanted to let her know that idling the engine for heat won’t harm a modern engine with fuel injection. It’s basically doing nothing. Police do it for thousands of hours on their vehicles. I stayed near Bryce once when it snowed lightly and the temperature dropped to 10 and I heated the Expedition for hours on very little fuel and then it stayed warm for hours afterwards after turning it off which kind of surprised me.

[@smile83tye]

Thank you ❤

[@marizee5615]

Barb!! Great interview! Good to see you and your rig again. (Marie from the WRTR button booth) ☺

[@serenityjewel]

I love this. ❤ Thanks for showing her setup.

[@TheOverlanderNextdoor]

Another fulltime lady with dogs, I love it! I also live fulltime in my compact suv!

[@CivilDisobedience2024]

I'm trying to get into this myself. Where do you recommend people going? Campgrounds? I can't imagine living in the desert. I also was just up on Mt Airy and it was isolated. I want to be able to talk to people around maybe near some kind of store.

[@TheOverlanderNextdoor]

@UTubeSodOMitz I honestly go all over, if you want to meet people campgrounds, or local related events would be a great start. I tend to stay more remote away from people.

[@LDR1100RS]

What a great story!

[@edzee293]

Great video! Good luck to you Barbara! Be safe out there!!!

[@ItsTooRisky]

Amazing outlook on life and such a good soul she seems

[@Coriol369]

I love the message of this video! I started in my Nissan Pulsar SEDAN! it was hard but I still loved it. now I'm about to head out again in my new 2000 RAV4 Edge

[@nocturneowl2660]

SLAY! She inspired me ❤❤❤ great video

[@roam4fun853]

Great lady!

[@charleshicks3492]

Great setup

[@conniewaite1371]

Thanks Tristan! I will sub her for sure

[@susie9893]

I watch a lot of these and wonder at how chill on camera the ppl he interviews are. Then moments like the end of this video remind me that Tristan is such a nice, chill and accepting guy; I'm sure he puts them at ease

[@bobmirror7164]

Yep, you got it figured out, the art of being comfortable without a lot of stuff. A -20° degrees Fahrenheit Dupont Hollofi sleeping bag kept me warm with out a heater for years living in the van. I found it is best to let people see you so they do not think you are a "boogie man." So yea, leave a window shade off and step out of the van every now and then. To stay clean up, I just scare the wild live with my snow white body and a gallon of warm water. You got it down pat.

[@montanadivacreations9267]

As a former Trucker, I am interested to know why she pays to go to a camp site vs just shower at a Truck stop? I am curious as I have been trying to decide if buying a gym membership is of value when we don't have many gyms where we live in Montana and the areas we camp in like Utah, Wyoming and Eastern Washington. Your thoughts Tristan? Have you done a video on this topic?

[@darlenemoak63]

This is great! What a wonderful set-up for a beautiful woman & her 2 companions!! Thanks, Tristan, & thanks, Barbara!!

[@louisepotier2784]

An interesting story, indeed. She and I have similarities so I've subscribed. Thank-you Tristan for another great tour! Have a wonderful day! 🙂

[@geoffwilliams6664]

Yeah...I always think these are going to be the most boring videos (the rig showcase vids) but they end up being very interesting. Everyone's life (and rig) is a story after all....

[@cottonfoo]

The BF Goodrich AT KO2s are excellent, I have them on my Land Criuser 100. I see Barbara went for the "white lettering on the inside", which I also did to make them stand out less :)

[@Oliver-n2h]

It would have been interesting to know which latex mattress she bought. So many on amazon to choose from and her latex mattress looks confortable.

[@h2hcamey]

Barbara you are a women after my heart. I totally get where you’re coming from. Your lifestyle is similar to what I have done! My husband is a retired truck driver. I rode with him for hundreds of thousands of miles. I feel in love with the road! I’m 69 year old woman. With COPD. I’m planning a month solo trip to the Northwoods of Minnesota And Canada. The end of April. I will travel and sleep in my 2021 Prius. It’s been a couple of years since I made this annual solo trip. I am so ready! Take care. Keep on trucking!!

[@debbiemcbride4925]

Your amazing ...inspirational. I'm prepping my car for wild camping. Almost ready for a trip

[@onlyinparadise4613]

That folding wooden table was pretty nifty. Can you please link it? 🙏

[@breathedeep]

Agree it’s easy to live out of any vehicle. I used to stay one or two nights in the double cab of my Toyota Tacoma. Tight and cramped but doable. 🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@CaballoCarDetail]

Great video ! , one question doesnt drain the battery never ?

[@summerstardust2064]

Doggies do great pre wash👍

[@FarmergirlJess]

Nice ❤❤❤❤

[@LuckyLarry]

What a beautiful life you have created for yourself. I wish you well for your future.

[@kelsey809]

This takes me back to the days of living in a covered wagon on the open frontier. 🤠👍🏼

[@KimberlyLetsGo]

Barb is a clean, lean camping out in the wild machine!!!

[@tbaker294]

Nice! I also noticed you wear Oboz; probably the best hiking boots I've ever had of the many top brands I've "rigorously" hiked in.

[@donnamount151]

Good old Somoa, went to Arcata High...and drove ed 646 1/2 yrs. Started hauling logs out of Hoopa...raised 6 kids alone....and I am a loner....how u doing sister...will see u one day...👍

[@carmenmartinez2882]

I’m always wondering how you do with cats, do they come back when you’re in the next destination? How do you train them to know this is their moving home? What about coyotes? I’d like to have a dog and cat (best of both worlds) but I don’t know how. My previous cats have all been indoors because of coyotes and mountain lions, they looove them but not in a good way if you know what I mean.

[@polizovski]

Great lady. Smart build.

[@WhiteTigress144]

What did u do with the other seats? And what do u do when u want to sell or trade it in? Do you have the chairs/seats somewhere? 2:26

[@curiouslights7111]

She's so pretty❤

[@LONELYOLDFATUGLYHOMELESSBUM]

great set up.. would it work in a honda pilot.. ?