I walk thru my Truck Bed Camper build & DIY Jerry Can Mount - Road Tripping for 2 months out west!

For the next 2 months I'll be living in my Truck Bed Camper and traveling out west. In this video, I talk about the adventure to find a used topper after the one I ordered from ARE in March was delayed until July. With two weeks to go before I leave on my 2 month road trip...the adventure is getting real! This left me scrambling to find solutions to several problems...fuel storage being at the top of the list. I'll walk through how I made a custom jerry can mount from a hitch mount cargo basket. This allows me to bring 10 gallons of fuel off-the-grid! It's definitely been an adventure so far! Find other parts to this road trip below...
Part 1: Where I'm going - • Video
Part 2: My Truck bed build - • Video
Road Trip Series Part 1 started in NM: • Part 1 - 2 month campi...
**ARE cancelled my order and refunded my money with no hassle. The dealer I worked with was very apologetic and even offered to loan me a used topper for my trip if he could find one.**
Find me here:
/ looknfishy
/ looknfishy
looknfishy.blogspot.com/
#flyfishing #looknfishy #truckcamping

[@YUcare]

The you don’t know me I have no intention of painting this… has me rolling 😂

[@markstanton2362]

those woods in the background look like upper peninsula Michigan

[@jimgollach6202]

Definitely a thought out project drew. Excellent setup looks like your ready for a fun trip of a lifetime. I'll be watching. 😀👍👍👍

[@LooknFishy]

Thank you! Definitely had some time to brain it out but the real test will be forest service roads. Super excited to get started!

[@fishduckdog]

Those converted pvc pipes for water storage and shower mounted on top work slick too!

[@KodyKline]

Thanks for the ideas. Keep on camping

[@outdoorenthusiastenl4907]

Awesome video. Thanks for posting. I just got back from my first dispersed camping trip out in Colorado. My build is similar to yours. It worked out great!!! Have a safe and exciting adventure!!!

[@LooknFishy]

Been great so far! Great to hear your first dispersed camping trip was a success!

[@marklamude2355]

Hi Drew my suggestion would be an external awning or tent extension off the back, ideal for cooking under, when its raining and shade when its hot, small vehicles get pretty gross when its raining and unbearable in the heat, the fan just wont cut it. use the river as your beer cooler and fish on. so yeah an awning extension would be awesome.

[@LooknFishy]

I have my rain fly from my hammock and planning on grabbing some extendable painters poles to help raise it. I just forgot to talk about that and my 5 gal solar shower. The fan is just for circulation.

[@marklamude2355]

@@LooknFishy Ah cool! yeah outside cover is awesome for hanging waders cooking etc etc, I suppose if you were staying for a few days you could jusr bang up a bivvy or tent right next to truck. Its interesting stuff man very cool. By the time you come back it will be a mega Fishin machine tuned right up to your needs ha ha, be fun man.

[@LooknFishy]

@@marklamude2355 haha for sure...already seeing changes and I haven't left!

[@jegibson10]

This is awesome! Glad to see it come together!

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u!

[@richardjones2129]

This turned out great Nice n very useful modifications! God Bless n fish on. Keep videos coming!

[@carlosmora4908]

Nice video! In case it has not been mentioned, if the battery is a wet cell lead acid, be careful!!! these vent gases specially while being charged.

[@markburton8376]

nice job. looking forward to this adventure.

[@JKonstanzer]

Well done Drew!

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u, gonna be nice to have some shelter during monsoons!

[@bobhammond8067]

Ready to roll!! Safe travels and tight lines!!

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely ready to hit the road!

[@ottodonaldson]

Why the hell do people not up vote these videos will always blow my mind. Thanks Drew, great ideas

[@LooknFishy]

Wish I knew. Thank u much!

[@wethepeopleoverland1163]

Be safe. Have fun!

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u, will do!

[@sherrymuzykazekestravels6793]

I love the rest of your build. I found a 12volt fridge that is 40 quart and also serves as a food warmer at Love’s Truck stop for 129.00 plus a 25.00 gift card or maybe it was 20.00. I think you answered some of my questions about carrying extra fuel for the truck and storage of the propane. Great ideas. Love your truck. I’m converting my ARE camper shell into a camper that I could live in short term until I find a van big enough to live in. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@LooknFishy]

That's a great price for a 12v fridge, might need to look into that. I have another video from the 3rd week in my road trip that has some changes I'd definitely recommend. I ditched the propane...took up too much space!

[@hillbillysportsman5818]

Looks like you got a good set up, can’t wait till the videos start rolling in. 👍

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u, really hope I can put a few together while I'm out but really have no idea. Never tried before this trip!

[@barnetts9812]

I REALLY like your gas carrier 👍🏻

[@KillaC420]

I see the stealie on your window!! Thanks for the build video! Definitely using some of your tips for my truck! Thanks again fellow deadhead!

[@LooknFishy]

Thanks dude, gonna walk thru it again with some changes while on the road trip...that will be up on Thursday!

[@calebrowe7591]

Looks awesome man

[@spencerbass7142]

Have fun.

[@LooknFishy]

It's the only requirement I have!

[@CleoCoal]

Nice setup, it's funny how many people have the same setup including me. I've made a few modifications because I have my dog with me but basically the same. If it works it works.

[@iflyfishwi]

Looks great! I'm heading to the Bighorn's in 3 weeks and have my Tacoma setup for off-grid. Should be a fun time. Can't wait to see some of the places you go!

[@LooknFishy]

Awesome, it's definitely time to hit the roads and see what we see!

[@flyflung]

The pvc roof showers are awesome. You’d need a Schrader valve and a bicycle pump, but you’d have hot showers. When it comes to ice, freeze solid gallon jugs of water. They will last a lot longer than cubes. Thermal mass etc

[@LooknFishy]

Yeah I keep 2L coke bottles frozen for trips and will start with those. I'll look for block ice during the trip but no idea what I'll find. Definitely adding a shower and awning next trip when I have a roof rack! Really missing not having a rood rack this time.

[@mattstewart2750]

I'm heading out on Friday for 6 weeks. The only suggestion I have is enjoy your trip!

[@LooknFishy]

That's all I can guarantee! Gonna have a good time for sure!

[@rononthewater1523]

I use a DC to DC charger, runs off of the alternator. Very easy install. Got it from Renogy. Has been working perfectly for 6 months. Charges at 20 amps.

[@LooknFishy]

Cool, yea a few others have mentioned something like that and I'm going to look into it before my next trip. Hoping this is just the summer trip with a fall trip to follow!

[@michaelbandeko3519]

Nice!

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u!

[@thebrizzy]

I have 20 nights slept on that mattress. Very comfy!

[@johnd5643]

Time to go fishin!

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely is and now I can stay longer lol!

[@michaelhicks8237]

Just got done with my build last week. Leaving nc last week of July for 6 weeks. May be in similar areas be looking out for ya. Stay safe

[@LooknFishy]

Nice! Same to you man. Holler if you see me...I'm probably not so incognito right now lol!

[@can448]

This is dope man Ive been looking for a camper shell to do some camping and ice fishing

[@LooknFishy]

Wish I had done it sooner. Made my 2 month road trip this summer crazy comfortable!

[@chuckfountain620]

Amazon sells a 12volt coffee maker, & skillet

[@blackflycreations]

Awesome build Drew!👍Take care, Steve @blackflycreations

[@jonathanalcarez3663]

If you wanted to eliminate those white fuel canisters they make an adapter that goes from 1lb propane cylinder to butane stoves. I use it with a pocket rocket style stove and a green 1lb Coleman bottle, works nice and don't have to carry multiple different canisters.

[@andrewdg90]

Pricey, but look at Dometic fridge units. Awesome setup!

[@LooknFishy]

Will do...first thing I need to replace. Ice gets old...plus, has been hard to find in idaho the last 10 days. Lost some food b/c of it!

[@alexearl230]

Looking great! Have you considered using a thin sheet material (ideally powder coated aluminium) that can live under the mattress and slide out to sit over the siding drawer as a work bench? You could sit your gas stove there and use it for food prep etc. I don’t know that it would line up or hold weight but maybe you could sit another cover over the fold down gas cans and use that as a bench seat... Then you’d have a full picnic setup.

[@LooknFishy]

I have a fold up tv table that I'll use. Looked at doing prep and other things on the bed or how you mentioned but any spills become a problem. If it happens it ends up all over and inside the slide. So I went with a small table and cutting board that I can work on away from the truck. But you've given me an idea something that would go under the slide and hang out away from the truck, also easy to remove and clean...that would be awesome!

[@dillonmendez2377]

Hey Drew! if you happen to be coming through fayetteville when you leave, i have a yakima load warrior roof basket you are more than welcome to borrow for your trip! stoked to see some videos!

[@LooknFishy]

Cool man, thank you. If I were coming thru and had the rack I'd take you up on that. But I need everything from the rails up!

[@betrickey]

Use dry ice in your coolers. If you freeze some water bottles and throw them in the bottom. And limit the number of times you get into your cooler. You'll keep things cold and frozen easily for more than a week. Check with the local grocery store and talk to the butcher's. Most of the rural stores get their meat shipped in on dry ice. They will just give it away to you for nothing.

[@LooknFishy]

Thanks! Great idea, never thought about asking butchers for dry ice. Yea I have frozen 2l bottles to start. My coolers will hold mostly beer...so can't really limit opening them lol!

[@golfmike304]

Nice video. Like the bed set up. I was thinking if you have the coolers already in the back of your cab you could put the fridge in there and wire it to you house battery. And put in an isolated switch so your alternator could charge you house battery when the truck is running and yet be isolated from your starting battery so you won’t be left stranded not being able to start your truck. Just a thought. I know that’s more of a long term solution and you can do that project at a later time. I’m just getting ready to start my own project. Can’t wait to see your videos of your trips.

[@LooknFishy]

I'm definitely gonna look at that isolator switch. You and a few others have mentioned it. The fridge is a must for long trips...I just git home from the trip and going to get ice for drinks isn't a big deal. But need a better option for food...plus when the ice melts and soaks the food...most meat isn't air tight. Not a great option. Thanks for the insight!

[@uncle_creepy2743]

hey man nice setup. i have a suggestion. put a bottom curtain rod(string/line) on and the curtains will follow the contour of the cap rather than falling straight down. :)

[@LooknFishy]

Thanks for the info. Actually lost one side of the curtain at the beginning of the trip...forest service roads took it out. Used some velcro to add some refletix which was super helpful. My storage cans hold back the curtain in that side.

[@devildog8084]

Ordered my A.R.E shell back in the beginning of Feb. right after receiving my new Silverado, and I just received it earlier this week (over 20 week wait) was told several times that it was being built and and that it would be shipped. Original time frame I was told was 10-12 weeks. After that just plan on getting the runaround. I even offered to drive up to Ohio and pick it up when they told me it was a shipping issue, only to find out that it hadn't been built and that it was just another line of BS they were coming up with. On a good note only 2 of the 4 windows leak....I like the function of the vented windoors but they leak pretty bad. Not looking forward to taking it the the dealer, I'm sure they will make up some crap. Paid $3350.00. I recommend going with Leer (I have one on my Ram) it's been on for 12 years and have had NO issues. If I hadn't spent so mush I would take it off and use it for target practice then burn it to the ground. Have a nice day

[@LooknFishy]

Wow, that's crazy! This used leer has been great! The only leak I had was from a screw for the roof mount. Other than that...no issues! Hope u get it all straight...crazy money for sub-par product!

[@danielmasset4153]

...I just watched this video so I know it's a little late ( a lot late for this trip ) for suggestions but maybe a camper shell with a elevated center for more head room...also when I camp while hunting I use a battery operated pump with a 5 gal. plastic bucket for showers, battery charges the same as your cell phone, I heat a couple gals. of h20 and add to a couple gals. of cool h20 for a nice shower...one other thing but probably not in the budget might be a small generator but would also consume a lot room...anyway those are my suggestions if you need more detail let me know...Happy Trails...!!!

[@LooknFishy]

No worries...always looking for ways to improve my design. Lots of trips planned so it's more of an ongoing project. Thx for the info!

[@the03mach1]

Charge house battery from your truck battery and alternator with a battery isolator and cable while truck is running...this with how you charge already will give you a full battery at all times..isolator separates truck battery while using house battery but let's you charge both batteries while engine is running...

[@LooknFishy]

Gonna try that next trip. Didn't have the time this trip. 3 weeks in now and solar is working out pretty well!

[@drested1793]

Great video. Any chance of getting a product name or link for the Jerry can mounts and the arm they’re mounted to? Thanks

[@Sides1160]

You have been busy. I look forward to seeing your videos. Are you going to do an itinerary video before you leave? That might get you company, that you don’t want. Never mind

[@LooknFishy]

Haha, had time since the excitement was keeping me from sleeping. I hope not but I guess it might. But in all honestly, I didn't plan this out too much. Wanted to keep it lose and since I wasn't pressed for time...like my two week trips where I'm trying to fit so much in, in a short time. I basically grabbed forest service maps in CO, WY and ID and plan to figure it out as I go!

[@briancramer6250]

No satellite dish?? J/K. Looks awesome, you will have an awesome time! I know because I heard you say... IDAHO!

[@LooknFishy]

Haha, gonna add that on my forever fishing truck!

[@marliesyanke4580]

It all looks very practical. I like the set up, but won't you get an achy neck not being able to sit up straight? Maybe have a lower bed profile.

[@mikel2438]

Can I ask where your spare tyre is on this vehicle at that stage. You mentioned you’d move it later just where is it in this video. Thanks and love your videos. Keep them up Fly fisher Downunder.

[@jred5153]

You should go over to Lockpickinglawyer and research locks for your fuel, those brinks are a joke to open. I would hate for someone to steal your cans while you are out fishing. Everything else looks pretty good, nice work. Check the "Packmule" hitch mounted storage system, pretty good stuff. Best of luck out there.

[@LooknFishy]

Appreciate it, will check it out! Yeah, all I have is Walmart where I live. Not really sold on the fuel right now. Every other day I change my mind lol! But definitely need to keep it secure.

[@jred5153]

@@LooknFishy try to find a disc detainer lock with shackle guard they seem to take the most skill to pick open.

[@joelgauthier4260]

Dumb question: How does the divider stay in place with vibration and all? Is it bolted to anything or something?

[@carywood3946]

I've always been taught to charge batteries in a well ventilated area since they emit gas. I assume you'll charge the battery with the windows and not while sleeping?

[@LooknFishy]

Hope to let my solar charge it during the day! The renogy has a control panel that I believe cuts the charge when fully charged. Need to read that closer to be sure.

[@carywood3946]

@@LooknFishy Good stuff. Looks like a killer setup. Hoping to get my 3rd gen 4runner setup soon for camping/trout fishing this summer. Mostly one night trips though.

[@charlieulmer-scrantonscomm2388]

Lots of highly rated fridges at the $200 mark. Brand BougeRV

[@LooknFishy]

Thx dude, definitely looking for one!

[@caseygerbich6959]

If you are worried about your battery going dead in the back country just buy a cheap 2000 watt inverter generator. You can run a coffee maker and charge your marine battery and phone and all your other electronics. The cheapest I see right now is 386 for the Ai-Power on amazon prime. It says I can get it in 5 days.

[@LooknFishy]

Looked at some of those but trying to stay away from needing gas!

[@leetreado3801]

What about mounting the solar panels to the top of your cab or topper?

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely want to when I can get a roof rack. Losing it has stopped me from carrying several things I really wanted!

[@eugenewalk4601]

Did you seal around the tailgate top and sides? That's where mine leaked and soaked my matress

[@LooknFishy]

Yes, you can see the TrueXseal on the tailgate. There was a big gap there. Need about 2 more feet for below the bed and it gets here Wednesday. Yea, the first rain storm soaked my mattress...how I found my leaks lol! Good I found them here and not on the trip!

[@jimpyle560]

Enjoyed the video, but bummed me out when you said it would be a couple months with no fishing vids.

[@LooknFishy]

Thank u. I hope I can get a few out while I'm gone...just didn't want to promise anything considering I know my internet situation will be limited. Something to figure out for sure!

[@479troutbum]

What tire size are you running? Thanks

[@deepsouthNZ]

If you're not using the rear seat a fridge freezer can go there

[@Hrogthar]

Looks a lot more comfortable than the backseat! Think that fan will do a good enough job in the summer?

[@LooknFishy]

Definitely will be more comfortable than the back seat. Probably not, mostly just to circulate some air. Might DIY a flex hose to run thru the back window and connect to a vent and run my AC...that will help cool down at night!

[@Hrogthar]

@@LooknFishy That'd be worth carrying an extra battery for your truck IMO lol

[@LooknFishy]

Will have one for sure!

[@CA-qv2ux]

How wide is your mattress? And is your slide out storage on tracks? Awesome setup!

[@LooknFishy]

Mattress is 31"s wide. The slide just sits on the bed. I built it so the back panel rides flush with the platform and the front rides flush with the legs...so it rides firm.

[@CA-qv2ux]

Thank you! Good fishing on your trip, looking forward to videos when you get back!

[@ericolsen9799]

great video! did you say 330 miles on tank? ugh rough. is that a Titan? i have a 2018 and I get 460 miles on tank? I love your design, keep it up

[@LooknFishy]

Thx dude...unfortunately I did...only complaint I have. 460 would be nice!

[@cheryl4860]

How did you make the slide under the bed build?

[@LooknFishy]

Got a walk thru video of my build too!

[@TheBeatenPaths]

You put the tailgate up and cap lid down at night when you go to bed?

[@LooknFishy]

Yup...and lock them both!

[@TheBeatenPaths]

@@LooknFishy Good to know. I often wondered.

[@craigtwaddell3911]

Where can I view the series in order? KZbin is notorious for mixing up content all over the place.

[@LooknFishy]

There is a playlist on my channel titled 7k mile summer road trip 2021 or if you start in "uploads" and go back to Part 1 in NM...they should play in order but I don't get youtube so holler if that doesn't work.

[@billyg4723]

Who makes the Jerry can holder and where’d you purchase it?

[@LooknFishy]

Can't remember but can look when I get home. Got them off amazon...only complaint is the locking brace is centered...jerry can lids are left orianted.

[@tienzomby93]

Can you sharing your battery set up

[@LooknFishy]

I just went with a marine trolling motor 110ah battery from walmart and paired it with a1000w inverter. Just wanted something cheap to get started with that I could use to charge my gopro batteries and laptop. Worked well for those.

[@markstott6689]

It feels like the world is slowly starting to fall apart. So many items that two year's ago you wouldn't have given a second thought about are now rarer than hen's teeth. I want to build a pc for my two children. Can you buy DDR5? Rarely and when you can prices are ridiculous.

[@LooknFishy]

So true!

[@johnkent9019]

How long is your truck bed? and How tall are you?, Thanks.

[@LooknFishy]

I'm 5'10 and the bed is 69". I'll definitely look for a truck with a 6ft bed when I need to replace this one but it's what I had so I made it work. I use the plastic bin that holds my food and sleep more diagonal which helps a ton!

[@kandacepatterson7965]

Mosquitos? 😖😖😖

[@LooknFishy]

Haha...they suck which is why I say, in the walk thru after living in it 3 weeks, a bug net is a must have lol

[@kandacepatterson7965]

@@LooknFishy Im in Texas...camt even reach out to my apt mail box with out getting bit!😠what was God thinking?

[@LooknFishy]

@@kandacepatterson7965 haha, good question...I'm on the AR/LA border in a cypress swamp...we get deep woods off at birth lol!

[@Jmayer433]

Are you from Arkansas?

[@Jmayer433]

I asked that before I saw the pillow. Lol

[@LooknFishy]

Yes sir, born and raised!

[@Jmayer433]

@@LooknFishy awesome. I subscribed. Happy to help locals. I want to saw that appreciate your set up. Nothing fancy. Just simple and what you need. So many channels will show their set ups and it will be $100’s to $1000’s . Thanks for the video!

[@JCreole]

Mountain Bike rack…..

[@strykerhalo]

Laptop with craploads of movies would be nice?

[@LooknFishy]

Haha good one!

[@flyguy2021]

Wish I could sleep on a 69 inch mattress... I can sleep inside my 4Runner, but not in my truck.

[@LooknFishy]

It won't be perfect but more room than I had in the back seat of my truck last year. Definitely gonna look at either a SUV, van or a truck with a longer bed the next time I buy a vehicle.

[@rononthewater1523]

I've been enjoying your fishing videos. I put a couple of attempts at videos on my you tube, check them out if you get a chance.

[@robertplutz8221]

Slow down next time; talking too fast, had to stop and replay many portions of the video

[@LooknFishy]

Haha story of my life. Wish it was something I could just switch off...would have made every drive thru window so much less frustrating!

[@adventuredood8245]

Low grade. No Jerry can mount info. Keep it.

[@johnswanson3741]

You built a house on a bad foundation....any 5.5 ft truck box is just a stupid waste of time to think it will be a sleeping rig. It is simply common sense, but I was told by someone that common sense is dead in America, and I do believe it!

[@matthewsadler5458]

Do we really need a 5 min explanation about how you found the topper? Can we just see what you did?

[@LooknFishy]

Haha, pretty sure it wasn't even a minute. But I felt like it added context to a story that's going to cover almost 6 months!

[@marliesyanke4580]

@@LooknFishy I like your videos clear explanations. There always less than smart remarks. Don't listen.

[@marliesyanke4580]

Matt Your comment is crude

[@jonathanrichardson2089]

Stop talking with the none sense

[@LooknFishy]

This comment makes..."None sense" lol! But thx for the insight.

[@marliesyanke4580]

What?? There is no nonsense, love this vid

[@luckyleelopez3147]

Blah blah blah. Get to point yak

[@augieroman6531]

You talk to fast,motor mouth

[@fishduckdog]

Those converted pvc pipes for water storage and shower mounted on top work slick too!

[@fishduckdog]

Those converted pvc pipes for water storage and shower mounted on top work slick too!

[@LooknFishy]

Yep, bummed when my ARE didn't ship...was going to add it, rod locker and an awning to my roof rack. Got a 5 gal solar shower for this trip. But will upgrade when I can add a roof rack!