How I Built my Subaru Camper: New Design

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks for everyone who has commented and reached out over the past six months. I hope this video and the website ( www.roadtoridge.com ) help you in your camper build process! Also, sorry about the upside down footage. Not sure how that happened 😂

[@lauraottaviano7282]

@Chase Christopher...I like your videos. They are both informative, and the scenery is awesome, especially with the snow capped mountains in the background. Are these taken in the Rockies?

[@RVingwithG]

SWEET FRKN BUILD! Love the "L" at 17:22 How much for your old build.. LOL I'm in the RENO area.

[@jcoats5529]

I've been a professional carpenter/ cabinet marker for 30+ yrs. You did a very nice job right there.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thank you, I appreciate it! I’m sure I could learn tons from someone like you.

[@sinfullyblondie]

Absolutely good job.

[@420BLUNTLEY]

@@ChaseChristopher1 that make you feel good?

[@ronpandullo1155]

My wife and I live on a fixed income. Due to the increase in our rent recently, we may have to live in our Subaru for a while. Ours is a 1994 Legacy. Your specs would not sit ours, but your video has given me encouragement. Thank you so much and God bless you,

[@abigfishinabarrenswamp]

wishing you both great luck ❤️

[@raimondssmith8460]

You should patent that design, license the production and sell this as ready for use in Outbacks - very smart design !

[@gypsydavy708]

I would buy one!

[@lauralake3209]

Its so hard to protect from liability with anything to do with cars...this is a genius build, though. This guy deserves to make some money off it!

[@edwardfletcher7790]

I don't think you can patent furniture...lol

[@abeott5866]

He kinda is, check his website and you can buy the design

[@stellay7754]

@@gypsydavy708 it's hard to get insurance coverage for modified cars, that's why it's hard to commercialize it

[@jesf570]

Literal genius. Full articulated, fully thought out so deeply, so well done. One of the more impressive auto related builds on the net.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, I appreciate it!

[@alexanderh.999]

As an outback owner I love watching your videos and watch the possibilities with this car

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks for watching!

[@tanyajohnston8262]

Just found you channel. I am Canadian and an almost 60 year old woman. I want to start car camping this spring so lots to learn. I have build an easy design bed and plan to start in the spring to ensure I like car camping before designing a wonderful car camper like yours. Thank you for the design and complete teaching about your build.

[@ottoleskosek8380]

This is the most practical and functional car camping setup I have ever seen. You have put a lot of thought into keeping it simple. Good on you. Thanks.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks for the comment, Otto. You’re welcome👍

[@peterhering4114]

I like your dedication and craftsmanship there. Not too much fuzz, warm appearance, thoughtful use of space - this thing is ready for the industry (:

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Peter! I appreciate it😃

[@hiltonhowell3098]

I'd buy a smaller version for my Impreza. I don't have the tools or skills to make this myself

[@phoenixgate007]

I’m so excited for your website! I’m really grateful that you took the time to put the plans up. I hope to modify them for my RAV4. I’m new to this whole car camping world and your videos are my favorite so far. Your build just makes the most sense to me: the fact that it’s modular, how stable it is, the storage. I think I’ll leave my seats in, so that will change things, but having a place to start is pretty awesome.

[@CheddahSlingah]

When you finish your modifications, I'd love to see what you come up with! I hope to do the same when I eventually get a Rav4. It's very daunting, but it looks so nice/practical that I'd love to be able to do it!

[@willar1338]

If you haven’t seen SUVRVing check it out. He has a RAV4 that he uses as a camper without taking the seats out. His ideas are very clever and look like they’d be easy to do.

[@CheddahSlingah]

@@willar1338 Thanks for the suggestion! That channel is actually what sent me down this road of discovery, and I'll definitely be using some of those ideas!

[@killersushi99]

Just wanted to share that Weather tech has window covers now for all the windows. Just pop them in. They can reflect heat out of flipped and hold heat in.

[@pokeypaul78]

Sorry about finding your channel so late, as I see this video is a year old! Awesome job on the planning and construction of your camper insert. A lot of clever solutions. One thing I would recommend (as an engineer who has performed a good number of crash tests) please install some tiedowns for your gear, especially your trunk. In a crash at city speeds, you can have accelerations of 50g+ so imagine your 30lbs trunk becomes 1500lbs and slams into the back of your passenger. Placing normal tiedowns holds everything together and if nothing else, absorb energy if things go sideways.

[@Stormbrise]

How would you install the tie downs? I am curious now, and safety minded.

[@djalexinthemixau]

Bro, I test drove an Outback today. And your video has inspired me. It's actually made my decision. So well thought out and planned. You are a legend !

[@JulianJLW]

Really nice build, Chase, really practical and carefully designed, done with beautiful precision, and it looks good too. Well done, and well done also for the clear, comprehensive video, explained in just the right amount of detail. Thank you, both of you!

[@tylerharlow7820]

this is the closest to what ive been looking to do in my crosstrek - thank you!!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@GoToAlps]

Well done man!!! I actually just finished building conversion for my outback but based on your first design, I just added slide outs in the drawer with DOMETIC 16F fridge and will make a vid closer to spring about it. Can share with you if you interested :) Really like your second build, it improves on the first version in many ways and just more smart storage and professional looking. Keep on going and I would be interested to see if you come with a solution: where else you can put your drawer inside of the car (e.g. front seats mount of some sort) and extending rear for 2 people bed. Thank you again for inspiration and ideas, Evgeny

[@a.w.thompson4001]

Chase, thanks so much for all the time and effort you put into sharing your designs, materials, tools needed, etc. through your channel and website. You've created a wonderful resource for others. Well done!

[@gigielizabeth5636]

I just bought a Toyota van and now I want Subaru. I love this !!

[@davidkasparian3813]

I’m a mobile detailer and I wanted to do this and I remembered this video from back in the day😂my next diy is about to be a similar build love the videos !

[@MichelleTech]

Great attention to attention to detail throughout and use of vertical space with the cabinet!

[@lout1587]

You've inspired me. Thank you! You are generous with your gifts and a great explainer.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Lou! I appreciate the comment 🙏🏼

[@kapnrex]

Just bought a 2014 Outback. Thanks for the insight...You should host an Outback Car camping meet!

[@georgedanilov8898]

What a great job for putting it together, with all the links etc etc Keep up the good work, and thank you!

[@itsJoshuaSkyy]

Thank you! Im gonna try to apply this to my forester. Its gotta be pretty close to the same

[@stevecunningham936]

I am a carpenter and you did an awesome job with minimal tools!

[@user-bc5jk8rr3z]

Most excellent craftsmanship that I've seen; up there with the pros. Kudos 😍

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks!

[@zanemcmillan]

Just wanted to say Thank You VERY MUCH for making this vid! I just watched three vids from your channel for the first time. Im a pro in AV and this is GREAT Content. Haven't seen any of your modern film yet, but this material was very well done when it was created, written, recorded, and edited. Perfect takes are VERY HARD! This is about as good as it gets for someone with your recording experience. Feel Awesome about it. GREAT JOB!!! Oh yeah also, I have a 2012 Outback and drive all over the US for my job. This is fuel for fire for how I could upgrade "my rig." NICE ONE

[@MountainGirlwIPA]

I loved the video and recognized your "after covid" video by your sleeping bag! I wrote it down because its a 4 season bag. Any who - your video and over all demeanor is perfect for a successful KZbin channel. All the best!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thank you very much, Rose!

[@ethanmcalpin2]

Wow, definitely top 3 favourite builds I've seen so far

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Ethan!

[@matthewdenboer1076]

Tip: wax the outside of the box drawers for smoother slides and and for them to last longer. Sweet build!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Good idea, thanks!

[@Vegetarian57]

I am a tradesmen, but not a Carpenter. You should sell these units. Or at least the plans electronically. Get yourself set up with CAD. You could sell these drawings for 100 bucks easy. And you would sell a lot of them. I would take them to a local cabinet maker and get him to do. This is the best design for a Subaru. I’ve seen in my life.

[@momobadilak]

Its a really sweet kit. thanks for sharing the parts list - and the walk through. I remember watching your backseat desk video a while back -nice design.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thank you! You’re very welcome👍

[@Cfreeman91]

Thanks for sharing! I really like that Circ Saw guide...that’s been my obstacle for talking larger projects.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

You bet! Same here, it’s been a game changer.

[@notme3252]

This is REALLY amazing. I want an Outback and all of this is in my scope of expertise, so I really feel like I could make this happen! Thanks for sharing!!

[@JamesJones-xk9xx]

I have the same basket! Mine is a Harbor Freight hitch basket that I put together without the center bar. I carry my recovery boards, my 2 gallons of diesel for my diesel heater, and a 3 gallon rotopax fuel can.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Sounds like a great settup!

[@jsdhornby]

Excellent video. Thanks! I love how it all seems doable with minimal tools.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Glad it was helpful!

[@westfootforward]

I need to get on this dude's level. This helped me get ideas. Nice work

[@ChaseChristopher1]

It doesn’t take much. Glad you found it valuable!

[@andyrichey1192]

Wow that's super cool !! Need to design me something, four in the bed of my pickup truck . Appreciate you sharing. I'll keep watching for more

[@chogan2128]

Genius! Subaru needs to hire you..

[@FirstLast-on1mv]

I can see them selling kits like this, it's a great idea and someone should suggest it to them

[@kathydelong1164]

You are inspiring me to hire someone to do this to my Outback!

[@michaelk8414]

nicely done! i had watched your older videos. the new design looks great. happy to throw some money your way to support and maybe even take a crack at building it myself.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Micheal! I appreciate the comment and the support! It’s a fun challenge and is extremely rewarding in the end. Best of luck, and I hope you share your progress in the Facebook group (road to ridge: car camper conversions) as you go! 👍

[@danschiltroth1576]

Just awesome. You've inspired me to make something for my 2 door Wrangler.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Right on! Have fun👍

[@pamkopitzke4515]

Excellent craftsmanship! Clear and complete, although I missed seeing the tools you used. Don't stop experimenting or sharing. You are correct that you inspire those without professional training or tools to do professional-quality work.

[@TheOfficialUdiyo]

I’m going on my first solo camp trip next week. Been watching your videos like crazy. I’m a little scared because I don’t have all the gear like you but hopefully I learn as a go. Thank you so much!

[@debslifesimplified6406]

I like your new set up. I am surprised you didn't not angle your cabinet for the back rest. I have some news, I am in the process of purchasing a Ford Transit Connect. I hope to pick it up on Monday. It had to go to the shop to get new tires and a tail light. so hopefully it will be ready. It has seats in the back which I'm taking out, I've seen a version of what I want in one of the many videos I look at. I am getting a 12 by 24 storage shed on Wed next week as well. 62 inches of it at the back will be made into a off grid living space, and the front part will house tools, van, and storage. I'll be sharing it on my you tube channel as well. I don't know if you remember I have the Chevy Tracker but it was just to small for me.

[@peggytravels793]

The very best DIY build out camper…excellent quality work!

[@majortom8851]

Very nice. We have the same year and model Outback. This is a great project for my wife. LOL. Wish me luck.

[@corinastephenson6268]

Great job...I’m impressed! I wished I had seen this video before I did my build on my 2017 RAV4 because I would have added the slide tables into my build. Thanks for sharing. 😌

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks! 👍

[@muhammadghalib2826]

great job, Chase. You just gave me confidence to convert my hatchback into a camper. I am working on it and will share pics once done. Once again, thank you for all the details and ideas. Keep exploring! :)

[@andyrichey1192]

That is a genius design ! Again appreciate you sharing. Gives me some ideas four in the back in my pick up truck

[@jtart8210]

This is an awesome build, been wanting to outfit my CRV. this is what I had in my mind but it was great seeing it in action!

[@1hjehje]

An excellent job! Thank you for all of the effort that you have put into creating this video.

[@stevearita3267]

Wow, I'm really impressed! Very nice! Thanks for doing the video.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks Steve! My pleasure.

[@trailfleamlangdon2260]

Great little camper,, I like the bed setup. How do you get to your spare tire? I have a Subaru Forster and i took out the big block of foam out from the spare tire well and have a lot of storage there,

[@dawnlapka2433]

I appreciate it that you showed the build slowly, step by step. Some people are a lot faster. I'm a new carpentry work person. This is my school project. How do I find more of these videos? I'm in the construction maintenance technology program at Southeast Technical Institute at Sioux Falls SD. Van City Van Life with Chrome and Cruze Bear has some great ideas and videos. He is a great teacher. But you are, too, young, whippersnapper! I had to watch a video this morning because my teacher didn't show up for classes for the 3rd week in a row. My computer is set up for next semester. This is a new program for me. I have a Master's Degree in a different subject. Construction is a different Degree that I used in my undergraduate program because I enjoyed it on stage. I'm looking forward to using it for other things to make money and earn a living. And put a roof over my head.

[@n3tuf]

You did an excellent job on your build. I lease a 2023 Forester Touring Edition and would love to do a build like yours but with the 2' X 72" platform on the right about 6" high for more storage inside and leave the left side plain so I can use my totes for my camping and cooking equipment. I'd like to leave my rear seats in and keep the build as light as possible because of my 69yo back and multiple rotator cuff surgeries.

[@randipeters5386]

Chase thanks for posting your design. I am a 64 year old female that likes to camp. I had a Subaru forester that a bulit using most of what you did. It turned out great and i went out west. I sold my forester and bought a outback so i cold also tow a small cargo trailer if i wanted to. With my design i am able to get to my spare, have more storage under the seat area and i feel all the weight is not all on one side. Also i was worried if i got hit in the rear with your build i would be pinned against my seat. With my build i think i may be it would beak up so i could get out if i was still alive and able. Thanks for helping me with my build. If i post on facebook or KZbin i will give you credit for what i learned from you.

[@nathanielcollins]

Timing of this couldn't have been better for me. Left my job a couple weeks ago. I'm in the process of converting my older Benz wagon into a camper for some extended travels around the country. Your videos have given me massive design inspiration for my build. I appreciate you sharing and look forward to your future content!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Sorry to hear about that, Nathaniel. I’m glad this found you at the right time. Have fun with your conversion! Share pics over in the Facebook group as you progress, we’d love to see them!

[@karlschreiber9286]

Perfect genious. You did better than I tried. ☺

[@jeremymacdonald5584]

Thanks Chase. This video helped me a ton as I am barely a rookie builder and also a visual learner. Appreciate it, and best of luck camping this summer!

[@brentbarcena6904]

Your cinematography is top notch and I dig all your content man! Keep it up. Thanks for sharing your world with us! What an escape!

[@Debrajoy]

So amazing! I have a 2003 Honda Odyssey that I would like to get built out to live in, I wish I had a relative that could do this stuff 🤣

[@MothShadow]

Chase... sorry, but just another random person to comment, to say... YOU ARE FORKING AWESOME! Very extremely impressed with your talents, be it photo/video, carpentry, etc., and so humbly sharing all with us. And yea,,, the website, greatly done. I am acquiring a '12 OB 3.6R, and will be building your design soon as can, and be outdoors more too (Ozarks). Again, thanks Chase!

[@margiereyes3640]

Love the design and simplicity of the build

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Margie!

[@kathleendanley8508]

I love this idea, i know the Outback is a bit bigger than my Forester but I’m exploring possibilities. I’m new to this whole concept of car camping so i really need to try it when this crazy snow goes away. And then proceed from there. I’m not sure i would take out the back seats but it sounds like you have no problem putting them back when needed. I will have to look at the web site.

[@bvan1970]

I’m late to the party on this video, Chase, but just wanted to say. Nice Job! What a nice simple system and I really appreciate going over the tools that you used. I’m thinking of how I can adopt something like this for my 4Runner. I love the slide out tables. That’s my favorite feature. The kitchen box is cool as well.

[@LoneWolfExplorer]

Great build, best I’ve seen for the outback. How do you access the spare wheel in the event of a puncture out on the trail?

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks! I just unbolt the platform and lift it up

[@Stiltz1291]

Great build! I plan to purchase your plans but wanted to see if you had a ballpark tape measure of the maximum sleeping length with your extension; I’m 6’7” and want to see how “baller up” I might have to get to fit Also does your 2017 have the lift gate issue where it will drain the battery if open?

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Dylan! Oh boy, I’d say my setup could fit you without much space to spare. I am just under 6’ and have plenty of extra room. I would build it with a front flap that goes all the way forward to the back of your passenger seat with it in the forward most position (so a few inches longer than mine). With that I think you could fit fully stretched out with room to spare. I look forward to seeing what you come up with! Join the Road to Ridge Facebook group and share with us if you’re interested. Yes, I’ve had the same problem. Check out the video I did on how I manage it👍

[@bluezklewz8351]

This is so great! I will definitely be checking out your website and trying to convince my dad to build this for his Outback

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thank you!

[@ohhansel]

I've been a carpenter my whole life and I've got to tell you that is one clever design . You also did a very professional job with the tools at hand. I've come to love the Kreg system as well. Now get off their young man and use the heck out of that thing.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Wow, thanks! I appreciate the compliment. I have used and abused that kreg system and couldn't be happier with it. Will do!

[@ohhansel]

@@ChaseChristopher1 hey buddy one more thing. I couldn't help but notice some snowboards in the corner of your garage. I had a bad injury snowboarding about 4 years ago and have had to give it up since. I miss it so much. Would you do a run out there in my honor.

[@markj10]

Nice job! I’m done many Sprinter van conversations and keeping it simple is best!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Mark!

[@VWnutMalibu]

Wow! Great work and attention to detail!Thank you for sharing your build.

[@mikecassley3800]

Great vid dude I've just got myself an estate with hopes of turning into a camper! Super helpful info! Love your Su man it looks epic!

[@jackforman6385]

this may be exactly what i've been looking for

[@fizishn]

Thanks for all the information and so much detail including the links to purchase all the tools and materials! You are awesome.

[@KristieSue89]

Nice work! That's a beautiful and creative design!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Kristen!

[@duvessa2003]

I ❤ the cabinet and all of the storage.

[@coreylavin1260]

congrats on the website man. checking it out now. love all your stuff so far

[@Stormbrise]

This is really a cool build! However, as a fireman you should know that all season tires are mediocre in any season. I have an ambulance driver, medic here in Denmark. When we first got our first car, he just came from a harry accident before visiting us. He checked our tires to make sure we had proper pressure and that they were not all season. I asked why he checked, and he told me never to buy them, to always use made for the season tires. Yeah, I have to switch twice a year, but I would rather be safe on the roads. I downloaded this video to finish it later.

[@Esther-ps3vx]

Your website is so beautiful. Great Job. Also, your build-up is so practical.

[@brooklynprepper718]

This is dope I can tell you put some thought into this setups and builds like these are ver realistic and affordable

[@troywargo9882]

You did a GREAT JOB!!!! Thanks!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks! You bet.

[@trailandtravel]

I’m in love with this build out! I might have to give it a try. Hopefully the 2022 outback is similar dimensions?

[@dougheizenrader2280]

Very nice build, and some clever ideas! I'm starting a very similar build in my Tiguan (Low mounted sleeping platform to maximize headroom, and storage to one side), so watching this was very informative and inspirational. The main difference in my build will be including a 37Qt dual-zone frig/freezer and a 2K Watt-Hour power station. Will be a bit of a squeeze, but I think I can make it work! Thanks for the great video!

[@FirstLast-on1mv]

Very clean, practical, and completely stealth from the outside! Thank you

[@StevePage1]

This is such a cool idea! I really appreciate your perspective on the build, and your willingness to share how you put everything together. I think you need a sponsorship from Kreg or Dewalt!! :)

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, Steve! I wouldn’t turn that down 😂

[@codyf.3369]

I absolutely love your build and your videos, thanks for making them! Have you ever had to pull your spare tire out while the platform was in? That's been my issue in my Impreza build without going with a hitch mounted spare

[@kennethshiba8295]

thank you for sharing your build, very well designed and thought out

[@jesf570]

Unbelievable build yet again, just unreal man. Your channel is hella hella underviewed, i know with time and constant uploads youll shoot to the top. Also, as I'm sure you know, you could sell these builds to people with outbacks, and make bank! Big time commitment however!

[@suyogdani2702]

The acoustic guitar bit at the end - "find a little light" by Brent Wood Nice ideas man! Cheers! :)

[@saycheeez7926]

Hey Chase! I currently have a 2018 Rav4 on a lease. When I exchange it next may for a 2021 model, I'm gonna decide after 3 years that I'm gonna keep it and try and convert the back. Thanks for inspiring the idea. Always wanted to just travel across the country and camp in my car. And you've motivated me to do it and I'm getting great tips/ideas from you...thanks!

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Talk about using the "k.i.s.s." principle! Your plans and build are brilliant! I was going to look into a GOOSE Gear set up for my 2016 Jeep Compass but doing what you've done with your Subaru would be far less costly. Although challenging, it would be fun to do. Being retired gives me all the time I need...just need patience. Thanks for sharing, Chase!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks Alexander! I’m glad that you are finding them helpful. Best of luck! I hope you share your build/journey in the Facebook group👍

[@benjaminallen2370]

That is awesome carpentry and fitment. Going to use some of your concepts for my ‘21 forester build (albeit likely simpler/trying to keep seats in place… kids).

[@markrichards3747]

Very nice! I'm sharing this with a friend who voluntarily lives in his car. BTW, I've had 3 Subies and Nokian Hakkapillitta snow tires worked great in the Michigan winters.

[@CitizenJane-]

Great video, thanks. You answered every question I had on How to go about this sort of project.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Great to hear, glad I could help!

[@Ogstylze1972]

Nice job man awesome build definitely giving me some great ideas for my build Thanks

[@gloriamariadc7757]

So super rad!! Thank u for the amazing details!!!👌👌👌🙌🏻🙌🏻🙏🏻

[@ChaseChristopher1]

You’re welcome!

[@Texasishot105]

Great job, love your attention to detail 👏 How hard would it be for someone wheelchair disabled to boondock, what would be my biggest hurdle, no pun intended 🤣. I've learned a lot from your setup.

[@72motherearth]

Hi Christine- I am a dual cane/wheelchair sometime person. Hubby is a 50+ year carpenter (Yes, we’re old but still active.) I have been watching a million van builds. We are on a modest budget. Thus is all doable for handicap IMO, but obviously adjustments must be made. You need to watch and read everything you can and flex it to your personal situation. As you know, things are a little harder for us- and you really need to have a few able bodied people as backups if you get in a serious jam. Learn the Van-life, practice it in your or a friend’s driveway before you roll out full time. If you can drive, you can do this.

[@francisniestemski2440]

I got as far as buying my 2011 Subaru Outback limited . Your videos Are interesting to watch.

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Thanks, enjoy the new rig!

[@omarpastrana9891]

lots of clever engineering done. awesome!

[@wallace870]

Dude… you need to contact Subaru… and do a “patented” collab… and have Subaru “finance” and mass produce your design. It’s awesome how much room, nooks and crannies, you’ve created. Good job 🤩