I Turned My SUV Into A CAMPER | Easy DIY Platform Build

Come along with me as I build my SUV into a camper!
•Adventures on INSTAGRAM / photoallison
•10% off at Squarespace: www.squarespace...
Thank you to Squarespace for sponsoring this video.
The blog post I based a lot of this design on: www.bonjourbec... Thanks Becky, this was so helpful!
My website: www.allisonande...
Business inquiries: [e-mail]
---------
MATERIALS - these are links to the exact products I purchased but anything like these will work. There are tons of ways to build these platforms so get creative and have fun!
(2) 4' x 8' x .75" plywood sheets bit.ly/3iQkh8e
-1.5" wood screws bit.ly/3h3z3rB
-30" piano hinge bit.ly/3iRabE3
-Gorilla Glue wood glue bit.ly/2Fw0Xi6
-1" x 2" x 8' board - stolen from my Dad's garage, sorry Dad
-Circular saw bit.ly/2PVZ3JB
*You will want a 40-tooth blade for cutting plywood, this is the one I bought to fit my specific circular saw: bit.ly/3g2Jryo
Adhesive carpet squares: amzn.to/32359gG
4" twin folding mattress: amzn.to/3iNTQjn
---------
Get up to 60,000 bonus miles when signing up for the Capital One Venture card (AMAZING for travelers) capital.one/2T...
Get $10 when you sign up for Ebates/Rakuten:
www.ebates.com...
Get $65 off your Airbnb booking: bit.ly/2lYzI68
The gear I use to shoot my videos: allisonanderso...
Some links in this description are affiliate.

[@allisonanderson]

This was such a fun project and honestly SO easy. If this is something that piques your interest, go for it!

[@AvinashSingh-vj3rk]

Nice video

[@kdmaccount]

Please share you blueprint measurements for those of us that have 2017-2018 Subaru. It would be especially helpful as to the slope measurements verification. Bonjour Becky was asked for the same and never replied. Can you help? Thanks so much. Your vids are awesome!

[@moses777exodus]

Best wishes, Lord-Jesus-Christ com

[@yottooverland]

Hi Allison, did you thought about removing the back chair for extra room?

[@kre8504]

It's what I'm looking to do to my Ford Escape XLT. I got the idea in my head awhile back: Nice to see someone with a similar idea.

[@PinkAmour21]

girl, i’ve been watching you for YEARS and have evolved from obsessed to minimalism obsessed just like you, and now you’re converting your Subaru at the same time i’m dirt-bagging in my Subaru!! so blessed to have such quality content from you, thank you!!

[@allisonanderson]

That's so cool! It's the perfect time for car adventures, that's for sure!

[@VKSgtSLaughter]

PRO TIP... buy the plastic storage containers *first* so you can measure how tall to make the platform so they fit underneath. I built a smaller platform for my SH Forester but I like yours better. Great video! 👍

[@booper343]

My heart is about to burst. I've been dreaming about camping in my SUV. I've even made a list of what I'll need. I'll watch many more of your videos to see if I need to add more necessities to my list. Do you ever get frightened sitting by the fire alone at night? I'm ashamed to say I think I would be. Thank you very much for your inspiring videos. You have given me courage. ♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡♡

[@tatemitchell1479]

Tip: for even more storage room (to allow you to bring along extra cooking equipment like a camping cooker) build it as a single and use a single mattress. If you’re bringing a dog and would rather they had their own bed, this works too!

[@thebassclarinetist]

I've camped in the back of my forester for the last few years and love it! You've made me consider building it out. Especially when you're camping in hot locations, a mesh for a window is a must.

[@rozieboss154]

Great vid, love seeing women building their own stuff!!! Badass!

[@GreenGoddessCreative]

You’re going to be my inspiration for a 2015 Subaru forester, thank you for the easy to follow plan!

[@virnaflowerfarm]

I love this. My husband is not adventurous, and his business has him busy most of the summer. I had mentioned this to him, and he is all for it. I can visit him out in the field. He is 6'2"

[@Ivecita2010]

Girlllll I have to say THANK YOU!!! I used this is my Subaru Forester and it was magic. Worked out perfectly. My partner (at the time) and I followed your template with the measurements and it was super helpful. We did our trip at the end of 2020 and crossed west from NYC then south. We hit so many national parks. Loved this so much and thank you again for such a helpful video ♥️

[@toddcooper4487]

Thanks Allison! I helped my niece Kate build one today. I encouraged her to send you pics of the finished product!

[@Jenjenilou]

This is the best and easiest platform I've seen so far and the only one my DIY skills would allow me to attempt. Thank you!

[@thomasholley360]

Have a similar setup for my 2014 Toyota Highlander. Two differences: I removed middle seats and tied bed frame into seat tracks for safety reasons - accidents don’t like flat pieces of plywood flying around in your suv. Downside: tying into seat track with bolts/metal flange limits ability to fold up during day. Second, I used a piano hinge similarly to access spare tire well located in rear of Highlander. I didn’t want to have to unload bed and frame on rainy night (when else do u get a flat?) to get to spare. Also, in Highlander there is extra storage space in spare tire compartment for tools, etc. so piano hinge worked well there. Lastly, I screened a side window to get cross-ventilation with sunroof screening. Used magnets sewn into mesh nylon screening to affix to exterior of car after I’ve stopped for night.

[@CompassBlue]

such an affordable and temporary way to try vanlife without committing too much to it. cant wait to see you outfit it it all!

[@chrismaupin]

There is always something so exciting, so empowering about doing something like this. Why is it so exciting to break out of the everyday conventions of housing? Thanks for making this.

[@SKYGUY1]

Good job young lady... You do a good job of explaining what your viewers are seeing. I would suggest that when you use your circular saw that, for safety's sake, you always adjust the blade so that it hangs below the bottom of the lumber as "minimally as possible". The less blade exposed, the less damage you can do to car parts or hand or leg or foot parts with the blade... i.e. a 1/8 inch deep cut will heal much faster than a 2.5 inch deep cut. Also... very good suggestion to find similar projects. Better to "modify" the wheel than to "re-invent" the wheel... especially for novice builders. Keep up the good work.

[@hughseagraves7036]

I'm doing this in my Tahoe (I'm 6'6"). Great video. I hadn't thought of using plastic bins (instead of building drawers) and mesh for the sunroof. One piece of advice - when you go camping, bring along some short sections of 2x6 so you can level the car if your spot is not flat enough. Just put them where you need them and drive up onto them. Thanks! Oh and if anybody else is wondering if they can use a futon mattress instead of a foam mattress like I used in the past - foam mattresses are much, much more comfortable.

[@melissalafarga7277]

Seriously, i love this video! The way you demonstrated every step so clear and how easy it is to follow, ugh, THANK YOU! I’ve been debating whether to purchase a camper or convert my suv into a small camper and you just helped me decide. I’m so motivated to build mine now! 💚

[@allisonanderson]

So glad I could help!!

[@EvieVermont]

Yay! Finally something I can do and ideas I can TOTALLY USE!

[@CKT222]

I’m so excited to see how your channel has shifted to what you love doing! Thank you for taking us with you. Safe travels!

[@allisonanderson]

Thanks for following along!

[@ohitsROME]

WOW! This is so cool, a great alternative to spending so much money for a sprinter or camper van!

[@derekzimmer6335]

Thank you! Your step-by-step walkthrough was excellent. Greatly appreciated how you offered your thoughts driving your design.

[@Callixen]

Your video inspired me to finally do this to my SUV. I just got done and it is amazing! Modified your design because I took my back seats out to give more storage space, so instead of spines running along the back seats, I made a table with 4 legs and frame for support. It is super sturdy and fits my car perfectly. Excited to take it out on the road and try it out, thanks Allison!

[@allentituspaz3241]

This is my first time to see an SUV turned into a cool camping car. This is what you call research. By getting a lot of ideas and come up with a better ideas. I gotta watch more of your van videos and I hope to see more of your van vlogs. ❤️❤️❤️

[@jenniferakes8224]

I have a 2010 Honda Element I bought because of the fact it fits a larger mattress (Queen size) in the back and seats fold flat to create a platform (when I car camp with another adult). I purchased a trifold cot size 6 inch memory foam mattress (milliard brand) that could do double duty (it was also considerable cheaper). When I travel solo or with my medium sized dogs, it is the perfect size for half of my seats folded down or if I am just taking a nap I can fold down my back seat on one side and place my cooler under the place front seat would fold down and use 2 of the three panels to create a mini bed for napping in. I love the memory foam mattress so much I built a long term platform in my home to use it on as a guest bed, and it is perfect for camping trips when using for tent camping. An XL twin fitted sheet fits it well. I returned the first of November from a car trip across the mid and eastern states sleeping in my Honda with the exception of 2 days the car was in the shop for damages to my radiator when a bird flew into it. But with solar lights I can charge in my front window (they fold flat found them at a box store) Reflective on one side blacked on out on other side window covers for my back side windows and rear window (made those myself out of thick posterboard and lightweight reflective insulation found at a hardware store and some black duc tape (to join the reflective material and postboard) and a light blacking curtain (courtesy of my adult daughter) and clothes collapsible hanging pole that fits on my car ceiling handholds in front, makes my own little cave to crawl into any time and catch 40 winks before hitting the road again for long distance trips, also works great for doing driving with a co-driver who can rest while the other drives. My last road solo trip was 2,776 miles start to finish and had the most amazing time being able to park and sleep when I needed to and drive when traffic was at low point to get through major cities quickly without having to sit in traffic. Thanks for sharing gave me some ideas to build a back platform for extra storage since my rear seats are super easy to remove.

[@mayibelmaybelline3779]

It actually looks really comfortable. I’ve been wanting to do this to my Jeep. You totally inspired me to actually look into it 😄.

[@cynderelliee]

I've done it in my jeep and it works really well!

[@allisonanderson]

You totally should. A Jeep is perfect for overland adventures!

[@MrTowton1461]

Allison this setup is awesome! Well done. Can't wait for your next vid. Best wishes from the UK.

[@estherstephens1858]

I’ve watched this video several times and I’m super excited. I want to attempt something similar in my suv.

[@don8548]

I am amazed with your creative workout for camping needs.

[@georgecullen9516]

Hi, your bed frame can be made if you get some cheap or free kitchen wall cabinets - put them on their back on the floor of your van and you can put your mattress or foam on top (this would be on top of the cabinet doors) works for us and they have a lot storage space inside......with easy access inside .

[@juliusjoymendoza2283]

OMG!!! I was looking into turning my SUV to this! Then I saw this video. We have the exact 2018 Subaru Forester Touring!!! I saw on your other vlog that you have RTT. I would love to buy one, but you are right, they are pretty pricey!! So, if you are looking into handing this SUV set-up to someone ( I know you did spend so much work and effort on it), I would love to buy it from you! I am just a handyman, but I love camping!!! Enjoy watching your videos!!! ❤️❤️❤️

[@She_Tried_It]

Great job! I have a 2002 and would love to see this with drawer rails that allow two long 40" pull outs from the back (peg board bottom drawers can minimize weight). So you have these drawers to pull out in order to maximize the space under the bed. Even on a road trip, it's a pain to just stuff it in where it fits in, and then go back and try to find what you need. This way you stuff the drawers and then just pull out, pick what you need and push back. You don't have to slide containers in and out to get stuff stored at the back, etc. I love that the sun roof becomes an amazing sky light - I'd be scared a nosey raccoon or cat would drop down on me at night! 🦝 😆 😸

[@arlenesolis024]

My mouth is open with these awesome ideas 💡. I love it. My camping trips are going to be epic

[@keniview]

I have watched your video for several years, subscriber from Macau. I am always surprised by you. Your videos topic always sync my interest(beauty, minimalist/declutter, life style, DIY camper). Can’t wait to see you do more DIY projects!!

[@IroncladCat-wx4tt]

This is a great looking build! I love tat you added the measurements to your build in the video, so that it could be helpful to other Subaru Forester owners. This is actually inspiring me to do this in my 2017 Subaru Forester XT Touring with a little tweaks to the design, so I may put it away after I'm done sleeping for the night. Extra teardown at the campsite, but I'm ok with that to get the extra comfort and usability of the space. Wonderful build! Love to see more, Forester buddy!

[@maiiamoua]

What a fun video! I love how creative and unique your videos are.

[@wandawas2]

I am impressed with your build as well as you are, and I must try it. I drove my Sister's SUV to Florida, and if the weather here in the Sunshine State was cooler, I would have taken her SUV camping with this same build as yours. I have all the items needed in my garage. The only change would be to place the bed behind the passenger seat and into the center, avoiding having to move the driver's seat forward. I sleep in one spot, so I don't need a wide bed space. Doing this will allow me additional space and storage for other things. Not to mention quick access to the driver's seat if necessary 😧. My Sis may not get her vehicle back...lol. I will be borrowing it again. Thanks for such great info. Safe travels. Namaste.

[@spiritofatree]

This is so great! I wish I had a car but whenever I do, this is a great idea to let me travel easily on the weekend!

[@stephaniedillard9706]

That platform was well thought out, especially the hinge piece. And the storage is impressive too!

[@YogawithKaylee]

So glad you made this video. Showed it to my hunney and roommate and said "let's do this today." I have an impreza and the measurements are only a couple inches different from the forester! Got everything to make it and hoping to finish tomorrow and head out for a trip this weekend!

[@georgiemccann2357]

I'm slightly obsessed with this! Such a good idea! Can't wait to see the rest of you series on this to see what you do.

[@aras6004]

I watched several of your videos and I wanted to say, thank you! These videos are informational, great quality, and inspirational; I subscribed. I recently bought an SUV and I travel for work and I am excited to plan for SUV life/camping. I wish you all the best concerning your endeavors and adventures.

[@amynagle6946]

she does such a wonderful job describing everything.

[@SS-bq1yv]

Agree ! even if she never did another travel vid, she would be wonderful just at explaining how to make/build things.

[@PersianPrincess12]

you are seriously one of the best youtubers!

[@britty31]

I am in awe. You are such a crafty person, I wish I were as crafty as you are

[@dancercofd]

My wife and I have been talking about how to do this in our forester for a few months - love this idea and the execution looks awesome!

[@rachelcharris]

Love this! Steve Wallis would love this, go girl.

[@drutgat2]

Thanks so much for this. Quite apart from the fact that this was a useful project to observe, it is a pleasure to see a video that is shot so well, and to the constituent pieces of the build explained so clearly and articulately.

[@joylim7926]

I’m so excited to see where this takes you and I can’t wait for your upcoming adventures (and videos!) Please also do a camper tour video once you’ve finished setting up all the accessories you’ve mentioned!! I’m sure I’m not the only one excited to see it hehe

[@markhall3323]

it's nice and neat and simple and looks comfortable.

[@ALinn-vr3nl]

I love how you designed this for yourself, to take independent trips without hubby = ) I hope you're having wonderful adventures and freedom in your new digs.

[@katherinesudbrook]

It turned out so well! Super excited for more SUV travel vids!!

[@AJK0119]

So excited for videos in this setup!!

[@xxtinkerbella66]

So cool!! Can’t wait to see more!

[@stephenfromcalgary3834]

You are marvellous, Allison. Step-by-step process reminds of the days in kindergarten, cut&paste, haha. Thanks.

[@aj707]

I am just about to buy a forester and was hoping to do this! Perfect timing, thanks for the video🙂

[@allisonanderson]

Nice! Welcome to the Forester fam! I love mine.

[@dantecelle]

This is the exact setup I have to do. I knew this 9 months ago. To see it done. Priceless.

[@jordanrowehl4788]

I’ve got an 09 and I can’t wait to try this!!

[@joelcrow]

You're a great presenter and a total cutie. Nice work on your build!

[@Lauren_aida]

This is such a good idea! I've been camping in my rav 4 plenty of times but it's never really comfortable or organized haha, this is a game-changer.

[@molivar5]

Awesome video!!! Can’t wait for the other videos! 😃

[@Capronice]

You are impressed! I am totally impressed.

[@ALinn-vr3nl]

Beautiful work!

[@MASep-bs5um]

What a great video. I'm a longtime subscriber and I've always appreciated your positivity and general perspective on so much. Appreciating that you're still radiating those same ideals! Looking forward to the next video of your SUV "remodel""!

[@queenella5819]

Nice diy! Yes to more videos in your suv camper 😊👍

[@dannyeicher6173]

Great DIY project. You did great on it. Thanks for sharing...😃👍👌👊🚙🏕

[@ohmylene]

I made this today and modified the measurements! You rock!

[@ajmalave9510]

That is really cool and looks super easy. I’m excited to try it on my 2017 cx-5. Thanks for the vid!!

[@miagrundy4990]

I love this so much gal! I just bought a 2012 Forester and will definitely be following this guide.

[@mikelaird7636]

Nice build😀 Looks comfy,nice forethought on the slope and hinge!

[@sweetpebz]

I can’t wait to see the add-ons you’ve got planned for this camper. Great job!

[@augievergara2465]

So nice,and so clean job,well done, and well explained by a beautiful LADY.

[@lilliecarter4947]

amazing video, cool and unique concept, well filmed and edited, and a good leanth I was not bored at any point in the video.

[@bernicebenice4990]

We have been searching for a van for camping and all along we had it right in our very own driveway...we have a 2018 Subaru forrester (and it even has a sunroof for nighttime stargazing and ventilation!)and never thought of a conversion until seeing your video. Thank you for the very specific directions!

[@Heykatierose]

Awesome! Can't wait to see where you take it.

[@LuckyUSA7]

You are amazing! So smart and creative! Love your project!

[@MissEllolisoss]

Wow so cool! Turned out great!👏😊

[@SamElle]

I don't even have a car but I find this super interesting!!! I'm thinking of what car I should get and I'm considering an SUV

[@allisonanderson]

Thanks! Highly recommend an SUV if you need the AWD in the winter, that was the main thing that made me switch to one a couple years ago.

[@nydiarevuelta562]

Yes suv are great ! I recommend a Toyota RAV4 because they are very reliable and you can find some used ones for only a couple thousand

[@samiamteal]

I recommend a Toyota 4Runner, I just bought one and I’m excited to convert it.

[@Anthony0899]

Wow a Subaru would be perfect for this , yup time to get my first Subaru Outback

[@Anthony0899]

Wow I never knew the new forester were that big inside

[@susanfirth2279]

Great job Allison. You are going to have so much fun. Makes me wish a had an SUV. That's my next vehicle but not for awhile yet

[@laffilmfest3759]

Pretty nice set up.....i like the simplicity method too :)

[@EKEACRES]

I have the same mattress in my Toyota Sienna Van. So comfortable. I Love camping out in the woods in my Van. I have built MANY bedrisers, and you did a fantastic job:)

[@journeysbegun]

Great content and very well constructed video!!

[@sbragdon212]

Awesome job!! I’m stoked to see your related future videos. Well, all your videos, but definitely these related ones! 😊

[@HelenSch]

This is so cool!! I have a Mini Cooper and could never do this though 😆 Cant wait for your videos when you go on the road trips!

[@allisonanderson]

Thanks!!

[@joannejpeg]

Heck yes, I love my forester! (2009 and still going strong!)

[@faeriesmak]

Whoo hoo! Subaru Club!!

[@allisonanderson]

I love mine too!

[@michaelhare6489]

Hi Allison Serious congratulations. The thought you pit into the build video was so much better than most you may want to write a guide. Like you I’ve been looking for a good car/van/teardrop travel solution. I’ve also settled on the Forester but that it for now. Hope to move from east coast to Colorado this summer to be closer to family, COVID permitting. At any rate, the real minimalism of your rig is compelling and obviously the build out and equipment will be a small fraction of other options. I also enjoyed the first trip and add one so looking forward to what’s next.

[@michellekohn2130]

Legitimately one of the best videos I’ve watched this year! I am so excited at the possibilities this could lead to. Well done. 👏🏻💕👍🏻

[@tenzo773]

Thanks for the very helpful and well-done video!!

[@somsubh]

I love all of your videos soo much Allison! You have the best videos and your travel videos are my favorite! 💛💛

[@ModernMolliee]

Wow, this is so cool! At first I clicked on this video because I love your channel and just wanted to watch to support you BUT I got so invested in the process. I don’t even have an SUV but I’m so excited to see you deck it out and take it on trips!

[@dslick6234]

Absolutely gorgeous 😍 ❤️

[@PopFizzPaperDani]

Great vid! I just did this in my ‘15 Forester, except I built in a craft studio for creating on the go 💖 Thanks for sharing this!

[@PopFizzPaperDani]

Fyi watch how much you leave your hatch up, it can drain your battery. It’s a Subaru thing on some models.

[@thatjlyn]

Love the creativity!!!

[@destroy43]

So awesome, nice work!!! Looking forward to the upgrades

[@cathyclark8041]

Thanks, your guidance made it so easy!

[@TheBigtrev1234]

This is exactly what i was looking for! Thank you!

[@mooremindfulmoments6599]

This is such a cool idea! Please vlog your first trip in the suv!

[@TravelTourTaste]

WOW what an awesome idea. I may have to seriously think about this. thanks for the inspiration. Kind regards Sarah and Glenn

[@sjandrewrock]

I already have a Sienna with a Coleman cot set up that I intend to go on a 1 week road trip in April but I love her video and watched the thing.

[@ecoguardians]

I luv your , “I’m tire of hubby and I need to get out in nature right away”, bed video!