Honda Element VanLife Tour || Conversion Full Time Living

[@casterlau999999]

I am so happy that there is a HongKonger driving and enjoying a Honda element. I came from Hong Kong too, bless you and your family a wonderful life.

[@robinmontana6837]

Can't see a Honda Element on the street anymore without wondering if it's a mobile home. Amazing set up for two people.

[@vjscrx]

Robin Montana 😂😂🤔

[@leilal8053]

How true 😉

[@silvercontreras4060]

That's cool. I been living in my Honda Element for two years. Loveit

[@dgraham2067]

I'm just starting out living in my Element ... love to hear about how it is going for you!

[@davidmil6629]

I never gave the Honda Element a second thought or glance. Seeing all the features they have as far as the seats simply being able to fold up or combine with each other to make a bed is pretty damn innovative even though it's so simple. Definitely handy and lets you take your toys without the gas costs of having to get a truck or van. Like I said I never looked at em twice, now I want one and lift it with some off-road tires and some camper features

[@NoteFromSELF]

I've been contemplating buying an ambulance, but seeing that you and Vanessa live in your Honda Element, then I'm sure my two dogs and I can live in mine. Thanks for the inspiration!

[@PhilChan22]

shouldn't be an issue. =)

[@alecbaker13]

amazing set up id love to live in that car, just living by the ocean working a job at a seaside restaurant. falling asleep the sound of the waves

[@CityPrepping]

Very cool. We spent a year and 1/2 living out of a RV traveling around the U.S. as a family (2 kids). Was tons of fun. Love your setup!

[@peacehappiness345]

What a great use of space. I have a van which I love, but I can see how comfortable even a smaller space can be. Great planning and execution!

[@MrSemiz6r]

Own an 03 element. An truly enjoy your videos and the path you've chosen to enjoy life together to reach goals. You guys definitely have a great foundation for the future. Keep on truckin!

[@Lucy_Honeychurch]

I have a 2006 Honda Element. It is a wonderful and versatile car. Love what you've done with yours.

[@alexrios4064]

Congratulations 👏 From dozens of videos received about honda element camper : Yours is the best, its simple, uncomplicated and efficient !

[@PhilChan22]

thanks Alex!!

[@kgvrtrooperkeithgarrick7133]

Cool build. I'm going van living in two months, for two months. Your video taught me a few important things as I prepare to design my caravan's interior. Thanks!

[@cgeagle]

Well done! Good for you guys, living so tiny & simple...really environmentally friendly, while saving you a lot of money to enjoy what's really important in life! Very inspiring!

[@ashtarsheran1803]

Hi guys, love the element. I just moved into my element two weeks ago and its amazing. My home base is Mt shasta, CA. Im a starseed and travel doing energy work. If you two come this way, I would love to meet up. Much love and light

[@dgraham2067]

Namaste Ashtar - I'm just moving into my Element this week. Excited, scared, joyful, thrilled. Hope to meet you along the road!

[@jannwebb]

genius! Especially the access to the "middle" and the cargo net! Gotta remember those ideas!!

[@uraniumad]

I've been lurking on your channel for the longest time, in hopes I'll eventually muster the courage to move into my car. Thanks for the Info!! You two are living the life I aspire to have!

[@PhilChan22]

Thank you so much, Hugo

[@evelynsouzaferreira4593]

Thanks for sharing. Fully amazed that two people could live in such a small space, very inspiring

[@elementgypsy]

Hope you are well and happy! I know you are on new adventures...IDK how many times I have watched this in the past few years. I am looking for new ideas rebuilding my E for the 3rd time and yours is still one of the best!

[@PhilChan22]

hey! Thanks man. Much appreciated. We are hoping to upload an update soon.

[@DivineZeal]

Wonderful setup! Looks cozy and really functional. I have been thinking about a cargo net for so long and yours is exactly the setup I needed to see, thanks!

[@DMTW]

You guys are so awesome. I follow another camper in a Honda element. His name is Nate, and his youtube page is "element van life". I so admire that you guys have successfully pulled this off. I could never just keep the bare essential required for the journey, my stuff would probably fill up three up three elements. I have subscribed to your youtube account and look forward to following your adventure.

[@pacfolly]

Such a perfect setup that's way better than other ones I've seen. Great job and helpful ideas.

[@LD1911]

Very nice video. I'm blown away that two people are able to make it work in one honda element. You guys are amazing.

[@carlosrosado7939]

I know I'm late 😅... But your Element is currently blowing my mind!! Now more than ever I want one.

[@PhilChan22]

haha thanks. I miss it everyday

[@bjmartinphotography]

I just got a 2006 Element. I moved out of San Francisco back to Houston. You look like you're at Apple's offices ;). I hope you put up more videos. A few people live in their car in the Bay Area.

[@Darkmattersfrank]

when i was working in SF I lived in my car during the week. Your set up is very nice

[@PhilChan22]

Thanks Manuel

[@georgedavidla]

Very inspirational. I love the Hebrews 11:1 scripture on the wall as well.

[@Gammalgubbe01]

One of the best.... I own a XC 90 and will adjust to it, can’t wait till spring Greetings from Sweden 😎

[@stanleyhutchins8183]

I just bought a Honda element an 2004 I love it so far and love your set up

[@PhilChan22]

thanks!

[@SheGotHelicopters]

Fantastic setup and use of space. I love it! And probably roomier than most apartments in Mong Kok too!

[@Geeksmithing]

Very cool customizations! It's interesting seeing how similar and different other people setup the Element for this lifestyle :)

[@lindseylichtman]

One of the best camper conversions I've seen! Still not sure how 2 people live in one though, but this conversion with a narrow bed would be amazing for 1.

[@PhilChan22]

Thanks Linsey. =) two people is just right but yes 1 person would be very spacious.

[@omart8073]

Wow, this is amazing. I own a 2006 Honda Element and love it too. Good job on your camper.

[@savedby_gracethrough_faith]

It's been 10 months for me living in my truck. Very nice set up. Thanks for sharing.

[@NorthAmericanDogmanProject]

I own 2 elements. I sleep in mine...love them! Take Care Vanessa and Phil!!

[@PhilChan22]

+North American Dogman Project thanks!

[@DayDrifterTV]

I owned an '04 and then an '08. Sad they stopped making them. Now I have a '13 Nissan NV2500 high roof ... kinda like an Element on steroids, is what someone told me... Lol. Nice setup in a great vehicle. Only trouble I had in 10 years of Element owning, were the window regulators. It got so I bot a suction holder (for window glass workers) and if the window started to fall into the door, I would slap the suction cup on it, low, to keep from losing it inside the door. Lol. Good luck to you both.

[@RainbowLanding]

I had to replace the passenger regulator in my 04 last year...after 14 years of ownership. It took 4 days for the part to get to me and about 45 minutes to replace.

[@SKoune]

You made excellent and efficient use of limited space...great job! My intention is to build one myself for my Element. Thanks for sharing. Cheers,

[@kevinknows8723]

That was one of the best setups I have ever seen. Seriously debating on getting a honda element now and trying this out!

[@PhilChan22]

Kevin Ngo thanks Kevin. It is definitely more than enough room for one person.

[@MG-ok6nu]

Thanks Phil....Great setup!! I subscribed as a way to thank you for making this video

[@movingforward3348]

We set off here in a couple weeks and we hope to meet you guys. We're making our first video here pretty soon! Great video, and safe travels!

[@PhilChan22]

sounds great. Where are you guys heading off from? Let us know when you are in the area. Looking forward to seeing your vids. Just subscribed. =)

[@rosshussey1723]

I traded my 2000 Miata (too small) for a 2008 Element. It was a one owner and exceptionally clean SC model with 129K miles. It runs like a brand new one. I'm in the process of customizing the rear, less the rear seats into a rv type interior like yours. I'm looking into mounting a solar panel on the roof when camping. Harbor Freight has some neat ones that should work. I hope to have it completed by end of May. Unfortunately here in Arkansas the summers get quite muggy and hot. Will try and find a small portable a/c to cool the interior at night. Most state parks have electrical hook ups and this should take care of all of our needs

[@PhilChan22]

sounds great! best of luck. I love our element. We also thought about a solar panel on the roof but being stealthy was one of our priorities.

[@The_VANtastic_Pack]

Wow!!!! That's a really good build for One of those. And one of the better ones I've seen. I always give you people who do conversions out of small suvs/cars mad props! I have a van. I don't think I could go smaller unless I really really really had to lol. Can't wait to see some of your other videos.

[@vantheman3857]

Whaaat up guys ! Love da Hawaiian tunes. Very sweet set up gave me a few ideas ! Thanks 😁🤙

[@awapuhi]

Very cool van life. It's a great way to save money and be adventurous. Totally support this and the reason why you guys are deciding to live in a element. Awesome cause I'm sleeping in my element to. Little by little I'm up grading my Elemento

[@raysills]

Hi Phil: Nice work! AND... you have two people living in the Element! Way to go! BTW, I spotted that Biolite PowerLight in your cabinet. I have one, and it's a great light, plus a backup power pack to recharge a phone. I like the fact that you can dim the light. Good luck with that setup, and I'm looking forward to seeing a video after you finish a year in the Element. ;)

[@shrimboy7492]

good shits Phil. Im gonna do the same with my 2005 Element! As soon as i get a new engine installed! Bought the goal zero 150 yeti. Thanks for the tips!

[@ctvilla08]

I always thought of doing this with an element since I was a senior in high school (2005). Fantastic set up you guys have. Hope I get to try this. Sucks they are no longer made.

[@williambranham6249]

There are plenty for sale on the used market. Just buy one that has the maintenance records.

[@nikosniko7092]

Suppose to come out with a new element in 2022 - stay tuned

[@caraame]

I love it!!! you have given me so many ideas for when I hit the coast in my berlingo multispace. I love the blinds and what more do you need but a bed at night and a little storage. Fantastic video, keep them coming.

[@PhilChan22]

Thanks! I'm glad the videos have been useful. haha The Berlingo is a pretty sweet looking car. Could definitely make it pretty cozy living space.

[@kamarbazarek6460]

Great Job!!! Love you vid & explanations & music too !! I have a 2009 Sante Fe I’m gonna try and convert myself ( I’m an active senior w 2 doggos )

[@herbclark2476]

Very creative use of your space! I wish now I had purchased a Honda Element!😄

[@Arthur-Silva]

Man! 2 ppl living in there together? That's crazy! Props to you guys, it's pretty amazing! good job!

[@Bodycomp101]

Thank you Phil, very helpful of you. I enjoy your videos and I'm glad you can share your lifestyle, it's helps me. All the best :)

[@tybrady64]

Very cool, thanks for sharing. I hope you are having lots of adventures.

[@scottstone686]

Awesome! Very ingenious setup with lots of thought given to design. Thanks also for the links to all the stuff included in the video!

[@jessa4282]

I love this. Very thought out and I love seeing alternative ways of living!!

[@stealth48nurse]

Very well planned and organized.

[@ampload]

Wow your brilliant ... I love your setup only add on would be solar panel and a fantastic fan... this is exactly the same way that I want my rig to be setup... thank you

[@PhilChan22]

Thank you Frank. We didn't want to setup a solar panel because we wanted to be as stealthy as possible. And there is really no need for one with the way we setup our battery and what we need to charge. Check out my battery setup video if you want more details.

[@irisqueen4376]

Great camper!! Safe and happy trails.☺

[@aaronm2452]

My 03 element has a bad motor, still runs but runs badly. I'm very impressed with your conversion. It inspires me to put a new motor in my E and keep it alive, if you know of any place that sells good used motors please let me know.

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I love how you set up your Honda Element. Was looking into an Odessy but might go with element due to better gas mileage.

[@SusanBame]

Actually, my '95 Odyssey had better gas mileage than my '10 Element, although it would be easier to set up an Element for living in. I tried to figure it out in my Odyssey and it just didn't work for me. When I realized I could make the Element into two beds with no effort, that's what sold me on buying the Element. 321,000 miles later...couldn't be happier.

[@QuantumErv]

Thank you for the tour. Great way to travel. You both are very creative.

[@WookieSenshi]

Just subbed! awesome. I have a 2007 Honda CRV that I can't out of here and there but after I pay off all of my dad later this year I plan on saving up and getting myself and older element and that will be my primary vehicle to travel in full time. (:

[@mastersmoosh9496]

Very cool. Ok I am now shopping for a Honda Element. 🚂

[@benzgaudiano6799]

Your Mong Kok sign brings back so many great memories of living in Hong Kong. Even the living space😂😂 You know how it is. I hope the virus ends soon so I can go back!

[@Agueybana55]

Pretty sweet Element nice set up.

[@luisatengco9050]

hi ..guys i love watching your video...i hope more new adventure to share...

[@puyihsieh127]

I’m impressed. What a freakin fun adventure guys:) did you bring a rice cooker? Lol I can’t live without it! Stay safe!

[@FeralandFamiliar]

Love this van. Great video. Lovely use of space. Well done 😊xxxx

[@oldmanshenanigans4833]

thats a very good setup well planned

[@aK1baby]

good job and nice vid as well. as consideration you might add some more little holes into the plattform for your bed. keeps your matratz alive as the humidity isn`t traped in between :) cheers!

[@PhilChan22]

Akibono good tip! Thanks. Another user told us to just take the mattress out once in awhile.

[@jaymeez]

I'm pretty sure you were in Mountain View when you filmed this. I use to work at the company who's parking lot you recorded this at lol Pretty Cool vid man, really enjoyed it

[@bertcendejas765]

I had a feeling it was in the bay area, considering the cost of living there, a lot of folks living in vehicles. I have seen them.

[@brinamarie9525]

So cool. I like your FAith magnet.

[@yoabagaile]

Go yall!💖 Supporting yall from Texas

[@salester26]

Love the side window shades with the netting and the black out part! Could you give more detail on how to make these? Happy Honda-elementing!! 😊

[@PhilChan22]

Sharon Lester thanks Sharon. We made a video about the netting so you can go check it out. For the screens, it's just sunscreens from the dollar store but you can get better ones at Home Depot or lowes. Then we went to a fabric store and basically made covers for them. Black on the outside and white inside. We borrowed a sewing machine from a friend.

[@zhulia]

Thanks so much, your van design is such an inspiration for brainstorming yet I'm constantly coming back to it for closer consideration. Awesome job and thanks for helping others along the path!

[@PhilChan22]

Thanks! Hope it works out for you.

[@SuperChansy]

Nice practical and effective... ur a creative pair

[@gibbethoskins8621]

MONG KOK lol ...The best thing about this is the steath factor. The phone holder in the back is a killer Idea, going to add this to my set up

[@Phil_McAvity]

Gibbet Hoskins . Me too! 👍🏻

[@PhilChan22]

Gibbet Hoskins yeah it's great. We can pretty much park and sleep anywhere we want. No one ever notices. FYI the adhesive will eventually not stick anymore when it gets really hot inside. So I end up getting some heat resistance super glue and glued it onto the plastic panel.

[@gibbethoskins8621]

Thanks man appreciate the tip

[@rebeccaswilling1771]

Awesome set up!

[@gerardolinares7466]

Excelente Phil, muy creativo y practico tu diseño. Felicitaciones!

[@JeffFrazier1]

Awesome! Love the accessibility of everything you did.

[@Solarlube]

You guys must have an amazing mindset to be able to spend so much time in your van. I realise you have the freedom to set up anywhere I wish you both well and every success hassle free vanning. One question tho how did you manage to d clutter. Wayne from Brisbane Queensland Australia. More people in Australia are also starting to do this and I have also started preparing myself as well.

[@PhilChan22]

Hi Wayne. I love Brisbane! We also did the whole van thing in Australia as well and spent about a month in Brisbane. Australia is the perfect to do it to be honest. If you travel along the coast, all you see are camper vans everywhere. You guys have it easy there with all the public facilities....I traveled in a 40L backpack for two years and after that I realized people doesn't really need much to survive. Clothing, shelter, food. The rest are toys. Most of our pictures are digitals nowadays, clothing wise all you really need is a few pair of shirts and pants....etc. We actually have a video about our wardrobe. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hqezeKqNa7WMfqs Make sure to go check that out. But we do have a few boxes of Vanessa's school stuff store at a friends house.

[@jaychong12]

Nice set up for super small suv.

[@Nonameisnt]

I got my a lot of questions answer in this video :) I hope they will make element again, I am a honda person and just waiting for the elements

[@williambranham6249]

Plenty of used elements for sale

[@SunnySideDown916]

I like the NETTING! :) its cool! Great battery idea :)

[@smokeyreddot]

Awesome setup and inspiring

[@CraigKinsey]

Beautifully done. A lot of great ideas. Thank you!

[@miguele8006]

Brilliant...Great use of space ....Godspeed to u👍👍🏆🏅

[@OnlyOneNia]

Yaaaay! A video tour! 🙌

[@DamonMedekMusic]

Nice, I also am a van dweller. Except in an astro van. I think you actually have too much stuff still. I read a book called "the joy of less" and it made more than enough room in my van.

[@susie9893]

This is great! You use a lot of ideas I've had myself - great to know they actually work 😁 Thankyou

[@MustafaKapasi1]

That's pretty cool. You should consider adding a solar panel on the roof then you'll have loads more power!

[@PhilChan22]

Mustafa Kapasi we wanted to be as stealthy as possible so no solar. Plus the yeti give us more than enough power for what we need. :)

[@wynnkidsnannylorivance4111]

wow! I would feel sorry for you both if you did not have such a cool setup!!!!! way to roll!

[@al4385]

Dave 2D got an Element and couldn't stand it just living in it alone. How 2 ppl do it is crazy. But he didn't have a big bed like that.

[@2legit2Kwit]

You both work full time? No rents in Cali? You are saving a crap load of money. Great job!

[@michaelcsutton]

Some very clever ideas in this video

[@sra.b.2240]

I love your setup. I also have a Honda Element, with ecamper on top. I hesitate about making permanent modifications inside the back because the spare tire and tools are stored under the floor. How do you access these? Would it be easy in an emergency?

[@PhilChan22]

That was one of those reasons why I didn't cover up that part of the floor. I made it where the legs for the bed frame are just thick enough where I can access the spare tire if I need to. They do not block the door at all. All I need to do is just remove the stove, water jug....etc. I wish Honda would place the spare tire underneath the car or something like that. That way I would have a bit more options designing it a different way.

[@johnjbrowniv8722]

Thank you for your idea

[@ratso4443]

Awesome job! Very cool

[@egn83b]

that is really an innovative way to live full time.

[@rogerrichie7823]

Nice set up.

[@chrisallenarnett6838]

Nice build!

[@TravelBeans]

Awesome!! we lived in a 4x4 in Australia and this takes us back with the folding bed.

[@PhilChan22]

We did the same as well in Australia for 4 months. haha And I just saw your older videos that you guys also hitchhiked in South Korea which we did as well. haha

[@TravelBeans]

Haha thats cool, how did you find it? It was our first (and only) experience of hitching and it was great.

[@PhilChan22]

I was just browsing through your other videos. We did it in Japan as well and it was great. Saved a lot of money on trains.