MY FIRST YEAR WITH A GO-POD CARAVAN | Owner's Review | Going Go-Pod Plus | Micro Caravan

[@Roz.S]

My pin has been changed (it was easier to change it than edit it out of the video) so ya'll can chill now 😅😅 ALSO, I am aware that there are ways to modify the Go-Pod for better off-grid use, but I wanted to review the Pod as standard.

[@lelandbrooks8737]

I am a dual citizen and I am originally from the deep South in the USA so I love how you use the term ya'll. 🤠

[@Roz.S]

@@lelandbrooks8737 because I love country music! 🤠

[@007nadineL]

😂😂

[@captaincurt3180]

@@Roz.S However, y'all drive on the wrong side of the road!

[@sdavifcom]

Damn it! I was planning on secretly downloading all those bloopers... There are bloopers? Yes?

[@riomummydog]

Thank God I’m not the only single woman with a dog who needs her solitude 🙏 I have a van but I have been told by people I’m weird for always preferring to be alone ❤

[@Roz.S]

I always get that too! Or people keeping thinking that I’m lonely or need to find someone to be happy, and I’m like ‘no thank you, I’m happy as I am 😇’ You do you! 👊🏼 Thanks for watching.

[@OneTakeTuber]

I prefer solitude all the time. I have a little 1500 sq ft house and a dog. That's plenty enough

[@ellebelle8515]

I didn't feel alone before my dog passed. I considered her a soul and therefore a true companion, just as much as a human companion. I believe that the difference between companionship between of human versus the pet, neither is of less quality.

[@JayKyle-jr5mb]

Im the same …my pooch and myself is when I’m at my happiest…not sure if it’s because I was an only child…. I have good friends if I want company. But as for solo banning, I’m new to it and I love it, never bored at home or in my camper… I take a few little jobs, or annoy people with my bad ukulele practice 😂😂

[@pootlingalong8928]

Love being single, always have, always will yet I am very sociable - love chatting to people! I like my own space but sharing with a little dog is my perfect life 👍🏻🙂

[@darrellNZL]

That is hands down one of the best, most comprehensive, balanced, useful (...........) owners review I've ever seen on KZbin You simultaneously sold the Go-Pod and small size caravans in the one presentation. I can imagine many people buying Go-Pods, or minis, based on your reasoned research matching their own needs, and ultimately being smug about having "followed Roz's advice". 👏👏👏

[@Roz.S]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks so much for watching.

[@geoffreycalveley1495]

With out doubt

[@crichmo5375]

Superb Video, and not the only Loner out there. Spent many days and nights out and about, own a small campervan, and a rooftent, and I like my own company. The solitude of walking alone after spending all week in an office environment can be truly liberating and relaxing.

[@Roz.S]

Agree!! I appreciate my surroundings much more when I’m on my own and I notice things that I would otherwise just walk past if I was with someone else. 🙂 Thanks so much for watching my video and commenting 👍🏼

[@ionageman]

A dog and a wandering life is ideal .

[@shaunna6673]

Your Go-Pod looks perfect being towed by your vehicle! Nice match. I wish that I was brave enough to go solo like that. Kudos!

[@Roz.S]

They go together very well 👍🏼 Thanks so much for watching

[@jackieskg]

For some reason I love watching videos on people living in small spaces. I have watched many. I don't drive, so this is something I will never do, but I just wanted to mention that I listened to everything you said and would like to say that you explained living in a go-pod caravan wonderfully.

[@Roz.S]

Thank you so much for your kind comment. I don't live in my Pod full time, I do like to go back to a house and have a permanent base, but I can be away in the Pod for long periods. Thanks so much for watching.

[@SaccoLokka]

Such a joy to hear you talking about all these aspects. You are a very charming woman as well. Thank you.

[@MiaMidol]

Fascinating insight with the correct conclusion, in my opinion. I would argue you have gained so much more knowledge because of the challenges you have adapted to. Also Winston has proven to be the perfect companion and your bond is a joy for people watching. When discovering your vlogs, it was the pod and your enthusiasm in your journey that entranced, sharing the experience being something to look forward to in these times. You, Winston and your adventures bring a light to my youtube experience and may it long continue. I think I am an avid fan, bless you both.

[@Roz.S]

Yes, my experience with the pod had shown me what I need and don’t, and what I like and don’t. Very happy to hear you enjoy our adventures and videos. More coming soon 🙌🏼 thanks for watching

[@truthfilter]

Im a 40 year old man and im exactly the same always have been since i was a child, i love my own conpany and thoughts i find too much company and constantly talking draining, i too love the outdoors i just need to motivate myself to get out more, i always admire seeing ladies such as yourself getting out there and doing things with feeling lonely,

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much for watching. I enjoying going out and experiencing the world and I never feel lonely doing it on my own. In fact, I personally think it's a better experience doing it solo. Best of luck on your adventures! There's a whole world out there. 😀

[@truthfilter]

@@Roz.S thanks Roz best of luck to you too and I've subbed so I can keep up with your new vids, take care x Steve

[@Roz.S]

@@truthfilter Thanks so much. I hope you enjoy the rest of the adventure.

[@hughfalconer9296]

Hi, I totally agree with your assessment of the GoPod, fantastic camper. I moved to the Basecamp after the GoPod but only kept it for a year, some negatives, lots of stuff to lug about. I have now gone back to the Eriba 320, which has the benefits of light weight and self contained. All I need to do is 1 connect power, 2 used water container, job done 👍

[@Roz.S]

@@hughfalconer9296 thanks so much for watching and sharing your experience! All the best on your adventures 👍🏼

[@pashkapushka]

Love your clear, straightforward, balanced review with nothing superfluous in it! Covers all, and never bores. Well done!

[@Roz.S]

Much appreciated! Thanks so much for watching

[@iandodd14]

Excellent, honest review. I matched my small towcar with a Gobur 10 /2T folding caravan, easy to tow at only 4' 5" high and around 775 kg fully loaded, easily set up by one person and giving an essential 6ft headroom.

[@Roz.S]

Very nice! I never considered a folding caravan before 🤔 Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@jeffrey5961]

@@Roz.S Folding caravans are lighter, less expensive and easier to store. When the lift mechanism will not go up or down when you want it to, when it is dark, sleeting and you have been driving for hours or need to leave, you will wish you had a non folding / lifting caravan.

[@paulsweet6235]

we have a gobur. excellent bit of kit 😃

[@jimdevlin2138]

Hi Roz , thanks for the video, A definite level above the usual caravan reviews, much more informative with regards to usability on a personal level , overall a great ,well balanced, informative vlog . thanks again and safe travels.

[@stevemarsh4302]

Hi Roz…That's the kind of review that people need to see before taking the plunge. A few years ago I bought a new Freedom Microlite, direct from a Northern caravan dealer. The build quality was quite poor, with peeling edges to the furniture panels, scuffed alloy wheel etc. Still a great micro caravan but still regret not choosing a Go Pod like yours!

[@Roz.S]

It’s swings and roundabouts. I’ve heard a few people complain about similar with a Go Pod and switch to Freedom. Luckily, mine hasn’t been too bad. It has got some cosmetic marks, but it is a 2017 model so to be expected. Thanks for watching.

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

I did the same and looked at both go pods and freedoms a few years ago. Was shocked at the poor quality and frankly dated interior of the freedom vans. Go pods aren't perfect but if you were able to put them side by side with a freedom van, i think the difference in quality would be immediately obvious. I saw they started to import a turkish built caravan last year (think they called it the carpento?) which was even worse than the main line of polish-built freedom vans. A shame really because if they used slightly better quality materials I don't think there would be much competition in the small caravan market.

[@Nyctophora]

Thank you for a balanced, thoughtful and experienced review!

[@Roz.S]

You are welcome. Thanks for watching

[@markwilson7788]

Encountered your video by chance. Very informative, you are a great communicator.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much

[@0HARE]

This was a very informative review of your camper van & trailer. I really enjoyed it. Over here in the U.S.A. my wife and I have a 17’ (5.18m) “Casita” travel trailer. It has full standing height throughout, two single beds, a small kitchen with refrigerator, sink & stove, and a small wet bath, with shower and toilet. We pull it with a large diesel truck, and usually bring a motorbike in the bed of the truck. Wishing you well, and Happy Camping!

[@Roz.S]

That sounds like a very impressive set up! Wishing you lots of happy adventures. Thanks for watching.

[@slinca]

Just love this vid. Very reflective and realistically explains why it was the right call for you at the time. I want to salute you for all you've achieved with your car, van and Winston over the past year. It's been great to share your adventures with you. :)

[@Roz.S]

Thank you so much!! Really appreciate that. Winston and I are currently on a new adventure and the vlogs will start again shortly. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼

[@alanhayward6719]

What a great review, a real owners experience about this caravan. Some brilliant advice also.

[@Roz.S]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching.

[@jjjnettie]

:) Fellow solo lady camper here. I lived in my campervan, traveling Australia for over a year, as well as regular holiday trips away. The campervan died and now I have a 1964 era caravan, sitting on blocks as a permanent camp on 152 acre bush block. It's just me, the kangaroos, possums and snakes. I go camping there nearly every week. ahhh, the serenity. :)

[@Roz.S]

Sounds like paradise!! 😍 Thanks so much for sharing!

[@johnmackenzie6008]

Your experience with the Go Pod pretty much mirrors mine, took me a bit of time to adjust to the size having previously had a larger caravan with all the bells and whistles, now happy with it as you said easy to tow and stow, great for a quick getaway and being retired use this more than I did my larger Swift Challenger caravan, took your advice on a previous vlog and bought a Duvalay and what a difference from a sleeping bag possibly the most comfortable I have ever been in a caravan. Keep up the great vids Roz I look forward to watching yourself and Winston on your adventures.

[@Roz.S]

A Duvalay does make a big difference, especially in a Pod. And Winston loves the Duvalay 😅 and often steals it! Thanks so much for watching our videos. 🙌🏼🐶

[@steveyoung91]

Hi Roz.. you definitely made the right choice and we all have to start somewhere. We looked at a Go Pod then ended up with an Eriba 430 great lightweight caravan but didn’t come cheap. Unfortunately I sold the Eriba after the first summer as I wanted something with a larger bed (I’m just shy of six foot). We are now saving for a new camper van hopefully within the next two years. Great vlogs as always 👍

[@Roz.S]

I do like the look of the Eriba, but very hard to come across a decent second hand one because they don’t stay on the market for very long. Best of luck with the van purchase 👍🏼

[@markspangler8573]

Thank you. Well organized, thorough, and thoughtful.

[@Roz.S]

You're very welcome! Thanks for watching.

[@TheRobbieg2006]

Roz, get a 2000w power station, will last years and charge from solar and hookup. Will run your fridge lights and lap tops etc for 2 days or more. You can keep it in back of van! Awning for the pod maybe diy put your mind to it! Im sure theres a tent out there you can make fit?

[@Roz.S]

I had a power station and solar set up when I worked from a tent. It gave up the ghost after a few years so I’m apprehensive about shelling out for a new one because they’re not cheap. I’m sure I can get an awning altered, just not got round to it 🙈 Thaks so much for watching

[@lweleven3423]

The power stations are very useful,Mike just upgraded my , nothing wrong with my old one at all that’s 4 years old , but I’ve gone with double the size now have a 1000w .

[@huanxiji]

@@Roz.S If you are interested in a power station. I can offer you one.

[@smartnfinal]

@@Roz.S the new lithium batteries are less expensive now and most are up to 3000 cycles to last for 10 years or more. you can get additional portable panels also so you can have a electric fridge/freezer. i like your pod. very nice

[@specag31]

@@smartnfinaltranslate to American please. I knew a "caravan" is a trailer. Is a "power station" same as a generator? How does adding more solar give power for appliances? You need a bigger " power station" right?

[@Mojano]

Love your straightforward no nonsense review. I used to drive a VW fox and that was like the TARDIS too. Amazing how these things can appear so small on the outside.

[@Roz.S]

Appreciate the nice comment. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼

[@matthewvaughan6327]

Nice, in-depth review, Roz. Being able to store your ‘Pod at home is a big advantage, saving money and hassle. The lack of internal space is possibly less of an issue for you as you’re ‘outdoorsy’, and don’t spend too much time in the van (weather permitting). Apart from it being a good drying area, the lack of toilet compartment isn’t too much of a compromise as you usually use caravan sites. In a nutshell, if you’ve got a small tow vehicle and you’re antisocial, get a Go-Pod😂

[@Roz.S]

Summed up perfectly!! 👌🏼😅 Thanks for watching

[@debbiekings7748]

Great review. I absolutely love my GoPod, having previously had a caravan....would never go back to one. Solo with my dog.....has everything I'd ever possibly need.

[@Roz.S]

Solo with a dog is the best way to travel 😉✌️ Thanks for watching.

[@sallybrown7854]

And Winston's input ----- so long as with you he is happy with whatever eh❤As some else said, very informative and we think you definitely made right choice. Some things are just meant to be. Really looking forward to our next adventures. Take care,keep safe ❤

[@Roz.S]

😊 thank you. Winston is happy when he’s stealing the bed 😅

[@kennethgardner3090]

I have an A-liner tipe camp trailer here in the States. I've been living out of it for over a year. I say it that way because I don't want to live in it, but out of it. Most of my time is spent in nature. In my travels I have seen a lot of ways to live. But I've never seen a little pod like yours. I think you are awesome.

[@Roz.S]

Thank you so much! Appreciate you watching my video and leaving such a nice comment.

[@CynCopeland-TheAnswerIsMeat]

11:37 😊😊😊 It was slight, but there was a delightful smile at the mention of another person sharing your space ...

[@Roz.S]

Because everyone always talks about it so I was worried about mentioning it, thinking I was opening a can of worms 🙈 😅

[@anniemac3075]

It's surprisingly easy to make an awning, that way it can be exactly as you want it. We used to have a fab small French frame tent with a hanging enclosed bedroom section & side section with a window for storage/cooking & I bought the material & adjustable poles to make an awning then made a wind break for it with a window panel in the top half to shelter my petrol stove from wind & was able to always cook outside whatever the weather. We used it for years & it was like a little bungalow. Loved it. Have a look at what's available in tent material, poles etc & see if you can do it yourself.

[@Roz.S]

I have been thinking about getting an awning altered to fit a Go Pod, but just not got around to it. I don’t have the skills to do it myself (I can barely sew on a button 🙈) so I’ll pay someone who knows what they’re doing 😅 Thanks so much for watching

[@anniemac3075]

@@Roz.S Ah, probably just as well to get someone to do it for you then! It'd be worthwhile as it vastly increases the covered space you & Winston would have to live in & you can stand up in it obviously, I think you'd find it liberating & enjoy your Pod much more. Look forward to seeing you both using one in the not too distant future. Enjoy your adventures together this summer.

[@Laurie_Erin]

How tall is the pod? Could you have a free standing gazebo/ pop up tent over the back to give you the awning, without having an awing? I love that you're making the pod work for drying wet gear, but I would also find that frustrating having it in with me, especially when space it limited. Love this video, randomly on my home page - definitely worth the watch! 😊

[@Britta7667]

I completely agree with you. There's only enough room for you and Winston 😉 I would never share one of my campervans with anyone. Not in the past with my beloved Mitsubishi Delica and not now with my 5,60 metre long campervan either. 😁 I've been travelling alone for over 30 years and love my independence. 😄

[@Roz.S]

Sounds incredible! The best way to travel :) Thanks so much for watching!

[@thesandero2454]

What a lovely little van. If it bounches a lot when hitting certain oneven roads,look if the axle has shock obsorbers fitted. That will make a massive difference if not. Since most trailer makes using the same chassis and axle components almost always there are mountings present to fit shock absorbers as a retro fit. Also make sure the tires are the correct weight spec.specially not go overboard on the weight rating. If you fit a tyres for a 1500 kg van under a 800kg van,that rhing will bounce all over the place. The tyres are part of the suspension system.

[@alejandrayalanbowman367]

I used to have a folding caravan that I kitted out myself. It had a built in toilet, shower, h&c running water, Kitchen, central heating, double bed. Those things can be done in small spaces, it only requires a little ingenuity.

[@paulj676]

Your great little van and overall solution for going places makes great sense. You could go with bigger vehicles but higher prices and find you can't fit down lanes. Great video, thanks for sharing :)

[@Roz.S]

Very true! Thanks so much for watching. 👍🏼

[@MrPetethornton]

Hi Ros, we have a Go Pod and totally agree with this video. Like you we wanted something we could tow with our existing small Kia and store on our drive. We take our retriever with us who just about fits inside when we don’t use the awning. Definitely paying for the small, lightweight design but that was what we needed. Keep having the adventures!

[@Roz.S]

Winston is much smaller than a retriever but still takes up a lot of space when he stretches out. I bet your retriever can really stretch! 😂😂 Thanks so much for watching and for sharing your experience.

[@chrisbalmont2875]

Great video and agree with everything you have said. Having said that, we have a much larger car, a new go pod to replace our 2017 go pod, plenty of storage space at home, there are two of us, we have an awning and still think it is perfect for us. We like the cosiness, the ease of setting up on site and the ease and economy of towing and safety of a light inherently stable caravan. The new go pod fridge is front opening which means there is a worktop on top of the fridge which makes a big difference. I hope you have many more great podding trips.

[@Roz.S]

Very glad to hear you're enjoying your Pod! Wishing you lots of happy adventures. Thanks so much for watching my video 👍🏼

[@Top12Boardsport]

Good analysis, this is how people should analyze there purchases.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much 👍🏼

[@warwickwolf3999]

Only halfway through the video but gotta comment on the wry smile and internal chuckles about sharing the van with another person.. very funny 🤣🤣👍🏻

[@bizarremagick]

Very interesting, thanks. We live up in the Scottish Highlands by Tain and recognised many of the locations we saw on your video. Everyone has different needs and likes and dislikes. The Go-Pod obviously suits you at the moment. Your needs may change and then you can change your caravan. As for us, well, we have a 7.9m twin axle caravan, with fixed end bedroom and centre bathroom. We call it our bungalow on wheels. It is just what we want and need. It is good to hear your review as it puts another perspective to caravan ownership.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much! I would be terrified towing an almost 8m caravan (maybe one day 🤔) and I am jealous of all the space you have! But as you say, we all buy what suits us at the time. Thanks so much for watching my video and I wish you lots of happy caravan adventures! 👍🏼

[@HaroldLeeDye]

Good job ! I have a simular set up, kind of but here in USA. I park my van truck trailer in the same town. One is for my build + remodeling business and the other is for my camper. Keep up the good work .

[@Roz.S]

Sounds cool. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼

[@adriannurse1502]

What a beautiful little camper. I am glad you have it and are able to get out and enjoy life. 🙂 My wife and I live in America. We have a 2006 Monaco Dynasty Class A diesel pusher. My measurements and weights will be in American feet and pounds. Sorry ☹️ We are 42 feet long and 12 feet 6 inches tall. We weigh in at 40,000 pounds. We also flat tow a 2018 Lincoln MKX behind us so we'll have something to drive around and explore in. With the car hooked up to the motorhome we are 62 feet long. We have a king size bed with a full bathroom including a nice shower. We have a full size residential refrigerator and a 2 burner cooktop. We even have a stackable clothes washer and dryer. Our heat is hydronic and done through our Aqua Hot. The Aqua Hot runs on electric or diesel fuel. The engine and generator both run off diesel fuel. Everything shares a 150 gallon fuel tank. With the Aqua Hot as long as we are in a campground with full hookups we have endless hot water for showers. As for is it a good value? If we just went out for a week or two a year the answer is obviously no, but we are retired and tend to go out for a month or two at a time. That makes it very economical and a much better deal then staying in hotels. Have an awesome day and enjoy your RV. 🙂

[@Roz.S]

Sounds like an awesome set up! Here in the UK, the motorhomes tend to be a bit smaller as the roads here are very narrow and twisty, and there’s a lot of single track roads so large vehicles struggle to get around. I’m guess you don’t have that problem in the US 😅 Wishing you lots more happy adventures!

[@adriannurse1502]

@@Roz.S Thank you very much. From the videos I have seen your roads are extremely narrow.

[@YoniBaruch-y3m]

McMansion of roadsters, wow! 😮 Just noticing, while there are lots of specs in American 🇺🇸 units, the question of whether it is good value never mentions the dollar. A month in hotels should cost maybe three to six grand, while rigs like this seem to go for a hundred grand. And RV campgrounds these days are not cheap either.

[@paulgriffiths5702]

I love listening to you. Great insights

[@Roz.S]

Great to hear. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@Bijou_Voyager]

❤ great video we pick ours up from three shires leisure in a few weeks , we have had lots of small vans over the years. Eriba puck - freedom - trigano silver 310 and now the go pod I hated towing large vans so find small vans stress free

[@Roz.S]

Wishing you all the best on your adventures!! Thanks for watching.

[@bobkennedy621]

Thanks Roz, very interesting and informative video. You mentioned that your pod bounces on rough roads. I had a Freedom, admittedly an older one, now that did bounce, even on smooth surfaces. They may have changed but that was the worst thing I have ever towed. Since I started following your channel I am considering buying a pod. Thanks again.

[@Roz.S]

The Pod tows lovely on well maintained roads, but she’s doesn’t like bumps, which is the majority of the UK roads 😅🙈 Thanks for watching our videos 👍🏼

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

@@Roz.S that could depend on how you load the pod as well. I can't recall having many issues with mine while towing, but you should always put the heaviest items over the axle, which is basically in the middle of the footwell by the end of the kitchen units. Makes a huge difference!

[@timwy]

Fabulously informative !! ...as ever !

[@Roz.S]

So nice of you. Thanks for watching

[@Lightandlovetoyou]

Not a UK fella so to me your accent is soooo lovely The pod is cool !!

[@Roz.S]

Thank you very much

[@dw4956]

So its actually not her having the accent.😉

[@micheleaday3902]

Your Go Pod Is So So Sweet And Adorable ....The Inside Is Very Precious ....Keep It Dont Let Anyone Tell You Diff...Or Talk You Into Selling...This Is A Very Priceless Gift. GOD BLESS YOU ....Sure Wish I Could Afford One And Get One But I Dont Drive...❤

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

Great video Roz! Very helpful for anyone who is in the research stage. Wish your channel was around when I was looking a few years ago. If it were I would have definitely still made the same decision to buy a go pod though! On the value for money point, totally agree there are other small caravans on the market with more features/facilities for a similar or lower price. However, as well as the things you mentioned, you're also paying for the relative security of the one piece shell. That makes a huge difference in the long run and was one of the main reasons I bought my go-pod a few years ago (which I have sadly had to reluctantly sell on since, due to poor health). I saw that quite a few people including yourself have had issues with the wall vents leaking but that's a relative drop in the ocean compared to other caravans that are built with separate panels and joins. So many caravans these days seem to have serious issues with water ingress and personally, I'd much rather just have to check and maintain 2 small vents than rigorously check seals along the entire body of a van or pay a small fortune to have a workshop check for me. I have also owned traditional twin axle vans in the past so perhaps I have the benefit of insight gained from that that the average go pod customer doesn't. I know a lot of people buy them as a starter caravan, like you, so they don't have much to compare them to. Let me tell you, owning a go pod is far less stressful overall and far kinder on the piggy bank over the years. On a side note, I visited the go pods stand at the NEC in february and the very helpful salesman explained the new features in depth. The fridge is a 12v compressor dometic fridge, so can run from the leisure battery. They also put higher capacity (think it was 110ah) batteries in them now, so you would get far more off grid use. I actually swapped the original 85ah battery in my pod out for a 135ah AGM battery for that reason and managed up to 4 days at a time off grid. To have the mains sockets working you would need a series of batteries run in parallel through an inverter which is a very costly setup, and i don't know of any caravans on the market that offer that. It's quite a niche usage scenario so probably not worth the investment for most manufacturers.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks for watching my video and for sharing your experience! All are very valid point to consider 👍🏼

[@barbsdee3831]

I’m considering a smaller caravan as we did have a 4 berth when my husband was alive and I miss the life. The fact it didn’t have a loo in the caravan was a clincher for me as I would need one for the middle of the night! I’ll have to look for a small one with a loo. Thanks for the review

[@Roz.S]

The Go Pod doesn’t have a bathroom, but it does have a cupboard at the front that is designed to slide a 10litre chemical toilet in and out of. Not sure if that would be suitable, but you can have a toilet in the pod. 👍🏼 I hope that helps and I wish you all the best on your future travels, whatever caravan you get 🙌🏼 thanks for watching

[@barbsdee3831]

@@Roz.S Thanks for that information I’ll look into that 👍🏼

[@Reflektologist]

great vid roz as always...on the subject of off griding,ive lived and worked in my small renault master camper for nearly 4yrs now and ive found out(the hard way)that when it comes to electrics theres no quick fix leisure batteries and bluetti type power packs dont run anything other than usb devices for very long and even then you have to charge again which takes forever so the best way to off grid is to think like your camping in a van(or go pod).the only thing i have especially in winter is a deisel heater built in which has been a god send but still you have to babysit the battery...hope this helps somebody out there...

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much for sharing your experience. My 'problem' is that I need to work, so running my laptop and internet over several hours is a priority. Sometimes I need to run them overnight if I need to upload/download a large amount of files. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@darrenupton5500]

You ve got a cracking set up there chuck.

[@Roz.S]

It does us well 👍🏼 Thanks for watching

[@MultiVogon]

Great summary, cheers! As another solo traveller (sans dog) I looked at go-pods, but two things put me off. 1: the price, as you say you pay a premium. 2: I realised I didn't want to be tied to always going to caravan parks. In the end I built some removable camping components for my Berlingo (your van's bigger brother) and went the micro camper route instead. It's great for one person, but you'd have to REALLY like someone else to try to travel with two 😅. It would be nice to be able to stand up, but other than that I enjoy the freedom of not having to tow. I tried an awning too but found it too much faff to bother with.

[@Roz.S]

I did have a brief moment when I thought about converting my van, but I don't have the skills or know-how and my van is really small, so went the towing route. I do wish that I could just stop wherever, instead of having to plan and book campsites in advance. There's positives and negatives to each scenario, but I glad you've found something that works for you 👍🏼😀 Thanks so much for watching.

[@MultiVogon]

I nearly bought a Nemo, I'm definitely glad of the extra space in the Berlingo tho. I just modified existing stuff really - a couple of bedside tables from the cheapo unloved section in a BHF store became my cabinets, and a camperize folding bed that I lowered and got some new foam for. Seems to work for me anyway. I like to park up by the sea to watch the sunset with a cuppa and a book or podcast. Ahhh solitude!

[@Roz.S]

@@MultiVogon It’s those little moments in life that we need to make the most of! You can beat those experiences. Wishing you lots more of them 🙌🏼

[@johnweightman2002]

Thanks for this. Something I’ve been turning over in my mind for some time. To this 75 year old tent camper, a GoPod would provide unbelievable luxury! I simply don’t like traditional caravans. So old man! Which, is, of course, exactly what I am but don’t like to admit to. I like an Eriba but so expensive.

[@Roz.S]

Age is all relative. My dad is in his 90's, so to him you're not old 😇 I like the Eriba too! But very rare to find a decent one second hand. Winston and I did the tent thing for many years, and the Pod is certainly a step up. The joy of making a cup of tea and putting the heating on after a day out in the rain is the best feeling ever! Thanks so much for watching. 👍🏼

[@valwright3699]

Have you considered micro car camping? My husband is 75 didn't really enjoy our small motor home, which we sold. Now have berlingo with a boot jump, which he enjoys so much more. It does take some adapting to but worth a look. Yes, it's still more luxurious than a tent which we also did for years.

[@Raygirling]

Thanks for the vlog I think with any purchase of a caravan you have to comprise as long as it ticks enough boxes that's ok 👍

[@Roz.S]

Absolutely! None of them are perfect and everyone wants something different. Thanks so much for watching.

[@trevorthorn5011]

Great vid I think you nailed it with your review open and honest

[@Roz.S]

Glad you think so! Thanks so much for watching.

[@peterhooson]

Good video/review. Thanks Roz, enjoyed it.

[@Roz.S]

You're more than welcome. Thanks so much for watching.

[@chrisdavies1288]

Very interesting and well presented. Keep enjoying life. All the best

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much!

[@cuernavacadave]

That is just too cute!! How I wish they were available here in Canada!! I had Boler for a couple years and it was only around 800lbs and easy to haul, but, foolishly, I sold it. But, to buy something small here, you would pay a minimum of $10,000 for an old one, so, now it is way out of my realm of possibilities. Sadly, I sold mine for $4000cdn, and now they’re going for $10K up to $16K for the same year and model of the one I sold for $4K!! Hind sight is 20/20! Thank you for sharing.

[@Heinrich-jy1dy]

Hi Roz! Interesting review. We dry our wet Clothes and Towels in the Car. It works perfect since 40 Years. Happy Travels further on. 👍

[@Roz.S]

Thank you! I do that too sometimes if I have space in the back of van 👍🏼 but it does take a while to dry sometimes 🙈 Thanks so much for watching

[@phillcox7232]

A very busy first year. A good choice unit for what you needed.👏

[@Roz.S]

I think so too! Thanks so much for watching

[@coops1964]

Hi Ros, great video. The answer to your power problems in relation to charging your electrical equipment is getting something like a Beaudens Power Generator with a matching portable solar panel. I have both with a total cost of about £250.

[@Roz.S]

I had a generator and solar panel set up when I travelled and worked from a tent. It worked great but then gave up the ghost after a few years of heavy use.

[@joanneburford6364]

New sub from Melbourne Roz. Very comprehensive and honest review 🇦🇺

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much for watching and subscribing 😀👍🏼

[@kateandrews8506]

Very interesting. I'm a lone caravaner with a spaniel too. I had a T@B 320 at first but moved to an Adria Action 361LT for the bathroom & electric heating. A towing course was invaluable for me too. My tow car is a Skoda Kamiq 1.5 proving small can be beautiful.

[@andreathomson4376]

A really fair review, excellent information for anyone thinking of buying a Go Pod.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much

[@jcwm01]

Thanks for this. Very informative. Moral of the story, get the one that's right for you. Cheers!

[@Roz.S]

Absolutely! Thanks for watching

[@n8rlvr876]

I also toe a micro camper.... Regarding the bounce ( lets be real on some road surfaces it feels like a bucking bronco) i learned from another owner the trick: take the camper( or caravan as u call it) tire pressures down! I took mine down by about 15 psi and it was a HUGE improvement!

[@stevenewstead4788]

Thank you for this very informative video. After seeing your early video when you first got the Go-Pod and watching other reviews I decided to take the leap a buy a Pod. I pick it up next Tuesday so was apprehensive watching this in case you thought you had made a really bad decision. In my mind the storage, easy towing and small size are the key plus features and hopefully I will be able, like you to live with the downsides. I look forward to seeing how I get on with the small space. I’m sure I will pack far more than I need first time out 😀. Thanks again for all of the work you put into creating your videos, they are appreciated by lots of people for both your adventures and the Pod - oh and of course Winston!

[@Roz.S]

Best of luck with your new Pod! 😃 It will take a few outings to get use to the space, but then you’ll be flying. Wishing you lots of happy adventures! Thanks so much for watching our videos. 🙌🏼🐶

[@nealeburgess6756]

You have a great looking outfit. Not only have you chosen a caravan that is easy to tow, you also have a great vehicle to pull it. Vans can be way better at towing than cars. They normaly have suspension that can cope with the extra weight, and are slightly lower geared for carrying loads. Also your van has a very short overhang from the back axle. This helps the stability of the outfit. The longer the overhang the more the caravan can influence the movements of the tow vehicle. In the 80s I had a Sprite Cadet (8 feet long with a door on the back, a bit like yours). I towed it with a 1.0 Metro. We did have an awning on the back for our 2 boys to sleep in. Yes, 4 people in an 8 foot (about 2.5 metres) caravan.

[@Roz.S]

I did not know what about the overhang but it does make sense 👍🏼 Just Googles Sprite Cadet caravan and I can’t believe you fit 4 people in it 😂😂 I bet you all made some great memories. Thanks so much for watching my video 👍🏼

[@nelsonvictory1834]

😮just thought about when we had a freedom jetstream caravan we used a toilet tent to dry out our wet clothes you only need a cheap one hope that helps take care both of you love your vlogs

[@Roz.S]

That's a great idea! I’ve got a toilet tent, but it has a mesh roof that allows the rain in, I’ll have to get one with a tarp roof 👍🏼 Thanks for watching.

[@olavlysakerrud1680]

Hi again ! What works for you and your lovely dog , is all that matters 🥰... I love my caravan , but now my car has got rust disease ... so I have started to look for a newer car which can tow at least what my caravan is allowed to weigh ... a proper diesel car is going to cost around here , electric car is absolutely useless for my kind of use 😋

[@Roz.S]

I don’t know of any electric vehicles with enough power to tow 🤔 Hope you find a good solid diesel 👍🏼🙌🏼 Thanks so much for watching.

[@janebruton8600]

Love your videos - thank you for putting the effort into posting them. I don't know if this is of any use but I saw a shower design in another video somewhere that was a self-contained unit in a clamshell design. You lifted the top part of "the clam" and it had a self-contained screen all around it. I can't remember how it stayed up but it became a waterproof shower cubicle. And I can't remember how the water bit worked particularly for hot water... but it was a shower! And would complete your Go Pod perfectly. If I ever come across it again or can track down more info I'll let you know 👍

[@Roz.S]

That sounds interesting. 🤔 Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼

[@jonathandeeley6276]

A great well thought out review of the Go Pod Roz. I was in exactly the same situation when I bought my Freedom Microlite 5 years ago. I had a budget to change my car to tow with and buy a new Caravan. I too looked at Camper Van's and came to the conclusion that buying a half decent looking campervan would be a constant money pit for what I could afford. Lots of Vans I saw had in excess of 100,000 miles on the clock and would require constant maintenance and repairs. For the same money I could swap my then car for something capable of towing the Microlite and would be new. The other main drawback with a Campervan is that once you arrive on site you are stuck there unless you want to pack everything away everytime you want to go anywhere whereas, the caravan stays put and the car is free to take you where you want to go. I chose a Microlite also so that I could keep it on my Drive and keep an eye on it and to easily do any maintenance jobs that need doing. Great video, enjoyed it and I'm sure that a lot of newbies or those thinking of buy a small Caravan will find it useful so they can make an informed decision. Look forward to future Vlogs.🙂👍

[@Roz.S]

Yep, sounds like you went through the exact same thought process as I did 😅👍🏼 Thanks so much for watching. Wishing you all the best on your adventures.

[@carolinesarahthompson9690]

So happy I found this as I have an electric van with 1000kg max tow capacity. Some great points as I'm researching what to buy for my first caravan 🚐 😀 👍

[@Roz.S]

Glad it was helpful! Wishing you all the best on your caravan search! Thanks for watching 🙌🏼

[@martinsaunders7925]

I've lived on a small sailboat for 35 years. You grow into the space.

[@TheRobbieg2006]

Bluetti please send Roz the AC200max battery generator for review❤

[@Roz.S]

Thanks, but I've had a portable battery with solar set up while I was travelling in a tent. Ran my laptop no problem and charged quickly with the solar, but it gave up the ghost after only a few years so I'm not confident about getting another. Plus, not sure it would run my fridge 🤔 Thanks for watching 👍🏼❤️

[@maylin1986]

​​​@@Roz.S Bob Wells in the US just did a review of a generator you can use either gas or propane in. But the review he did of a generator, was of one he had borrowed from a friend, with her permission. He gives the cons of using gas vs. propane, like his friend has only used in the generator. Her having used only propane in her generator, will allow her to keep the generator phenomenally longer. Unfortunately, if using propane, the generator would have to be ran outside due to the fumes you can't see or smell. The generator sounded a lot quieter than a lot of the huge behemoth generators people with huge rv's have to resort to using due to the amount of things they need to run, such as a refrigerator, air conditioning, lights, etc. I've been very hesitant buying a generator. One, the cost for sure is a big deterrent. Second, I do not like the smell of gas fumes in the air. Gas generators are just downright obnoxious. Loud and smelly, but I know it's the only options a lot of people have had for the longest of times. The propane generator is the first I've ever heard about. Recently, in years. I appreciate your thorough overview of such a small "start out" camper. I really love how cute the smallest airstreams are. Similar to the size of this pod, but most likely costs double or triple the price of this travel pod. I hope this is beneficial to you and appreciate the insight about your battery generator. If I were to want a generator in the future, this is by far the first time I've considered the idea to use a propane/gas generator. Though I could use gas. I'd only want to use propane only and appreciate that finally being an option. I absolutely hate the ones that use gas only. I don't like going past loud generators in campground areas, that smell of gas fumes, and am glad there's finally other alternatives to power a generator. Haven't bought one because gas ones were the only option for years. I've highly debated just getting a van I can stand straight up in, so there's no unhooking from your car. Just to have that ability to roll out of bed and go to the store if you need to. No need to worry about if your rig is too light and someone walking by, picking up your rig and literally walking off with it. That's my biggest concern. Otherwise, very cute rig! I like the airstreams and t@bs, but this would most likely be the one within my current budget as a starter rig. 🩵✨️🩷✨ ️

[@toddpillow3074]

Nice discussion. Even though my Silverado 4x4 truck and Escape 21C caravan are much bigger, I went through exactly the same set of considerations as you. A truck was a necessity for me as I carry off-road motorcycles, a mountain bike and a kayak plus snow and ice are always a possibility. I live in Oregon where the roads are bigger, the distances vast and the weather can be very severe but still there is real value in going MINIMAL. Happy camping. 😊😊

[@Roz.S]

I would love a big truck! But they’re very expensive to run here in the UK as they’re not very fuel efficient and have high vehicle tax, plus it would be difficult weaving down some of our country roads in such a big vehicle. We each buy what suits our requirements. 🤗 Thanks for watching and commenting 👍🏼

[@64maxpower]

I never saw that before. I really like it

[@leeyoung9469]

Incredibly informative vlog.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much!

[@chrisholds1]

This was most interesting. Thanks! I'm in the US, so we don't have a Go-Pod branded micro trailer, we do have some brands that are a bit similar. So many of your points are applicable. Again; thanks for making this video because it gave me much food for thought.

[@Roz.S]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks so much for watching.

[@catharsis77]

Great video! Very well thought out and presented!

[@Roz.S]

Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@Mush179]

Hi Roz 🙋‍♂️.Top review.I hope that these small car-van manufacturers take note of your experience of putting together a brilliant experience.😊❤️

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much! 🙌🏼

[@DjKayD]

Cool go-pod , I have that same rug in my motorhome! matches your interior :)

[@Roz.S]

Thank you! The rug was a TKMaxx bargain 👍🏼

[@peterclipson3277]

Hi roz, I looked at a go pod for doing the north coast 500 but found it to cramped for me and Heather my partner so we've got a brand new trigano freestyle 270 . Same width as a go pod and length and the same towing weight ,also is a pop top but it's the whole of the floor space .we've had a couple of long weekends in it already and love the space but like you have said you do have to be minimal with things. Really love your videos and enjoying the walks you do with Winston. Glad to have subscribed 👍

[@Roz.S]

Sounds great! I do think a Go Pod is tight squeeze for two people. Glad you managed to find something that works for the both of you. Best of luck on your adventure 👍🏼 Thanks for subscribing and watching our videos 🙌🏼

[@twogoonsonanadventure]

A bit late to the party…only just come across your channel. We caravan in a Basecamp 2 with a 1 yo working Cocker (Delilah). The problem with Delilah is that she wants to be everywhere all at the same time, she never stops and when she goes to bed she likes to sleep in her crate, she won’t settle on the bed with us, consequently we’re always having to squeeze past when the crate is in the van. Much fun! 😂 Tristan & Katie

[@Roz.S]

Hello, very sorry for the later reply, I've been moving house. How do you find the Basecamp? I have been looking at it as a potential for my next caravan. I'd put the crate on the bed in the corner 😂🙈 Although there may not be room for that since there's two of you 🙈 Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@twogoonsonanadventure]

@@Roz.S in all honesty, it’s the best thing we’ve ever bought, we both love it. There is plenty of room for the two of us and it has everything we need. It also has an outside shower for the dog when she’s been jumping through mud. Hot and cold running water, wet room and fully appointed kitchen and a HUGE bed. The benches are 6 foot long so you can use them as singles if you don’t want to make the bed up. It’s a perfect van! 😃 Tristan & Katie 😀

[@muntusmaximus]

Hey Roz, great review - you just came up in my feed, I've seen these and never thought it could be something I would buy but I think your review just changed my opinion. I've currently got a campervan that Im redoing, v2.0. Im more of a stealth camper, disappearing to Spain each year. If I see you on my travels I'll be sure to say hi.

[@Roz.S]

Just note that Go Pods are not very stealth and you’d always need a campsite if you got one 🙈 Thanks for watching. Best of luck on your travels 🚗

[@marystewart8569]

Interesting Video. The Go-Pod is cute. I've never been a Van Life person, but one never knows what the future holds, people change. I would not tow anything. It would have to be a Van and I'd have to be able to stand up inside of it. I too, like my solitude. Happy travels Roz.

[@Roz.S]

Hope you find something that works for you and you have many happy adventures. Thanks for watching 👍🏼

[@lesdrinkwater490]

Thanks Roz a great honest review of your experience.

[@Roz.S]

My pleasure 😊 Thanks for watching.

[@frankhughes4775]

Roz hope your well and planning your next excursion summer has begun here 30°today to a tad warm keep smiling and give Winston a pat from us Frank #Spain

[@Roz.S]

The next adventure is currently underway! ...I would like some sunshine though! Thanks for watching. The vlogs will be along shortly.

[@ketrianrenolsin9608]

That was a great review.

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much!

[@peterpayne2219]

Really cool video. Greetings from an American living in rural Japan!

[@Roz.S]

Hello, thanks so much for watching. Glad you liked the video 👍🏼

[@grahamcastle8189]

Well done excellent wellstructured and balanced review that I completely agree with being a former gopod owner. They are ridiculous expensive new now.

[@Roz.S]

They have gone up a lot in price!! But I suppose everything camping and caravanning skyrocketed during covid. Thanks so much for watching 👍🏼

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

I think they're in the same ball park as comparable vans. New ones are £15,995.00 now, which is cheap for this day and age in my opinion

[@Roz.S]

@@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t Last time I checked, they had put the price up to around £20k. They may have reduced it again due to more competition and the caravan market settling down as I think they were £16k before.

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

@@Roz.S I think that could well be the case Roz. Totally understand that 20k for a Go-Pod would be out of a lot of peoples budgets so seems like a smart move! They really are brilliant little caravans, wish I still had mine. For now I'll just have to make do with living vicariously through your videos! Thanks again.

[@conniewaite1371]

I just found you and subbed.love to see inside of the van,its terrific! Camper goes well with it.think it was a good choice,to keep the van.if you ever decide to sell it,something else could pull that trailer.who knows maybe another trailer may catch your eye. I will be watching! Safe travels! I am 70 in the USA. I have a fourdoor jeep to camp in. And a scooter.actually 2.may get a trailer to store them and our camp gear. It will give us some riding around while the camper and truck sits at a campground.the scooters get about80 to 100 miles per gallon. And you can park them anywhere

[@Roz.S]

Thanks so much for watching and subscribing. I have done a full tour of the Pod and you can see the inside here - kzbin.info/www/bejne/fnvalneVZrCmq6ssi=G9QVs8YHU6HquGxx Wishing you all the best on your adventures.

[@lesklower7281]

There are some disadvantages and some positives about your small caravan but the cutist thing about your caravan is the two eye stickers on the front window so cool and you don't have to buy another vehicle to tow a much heavier and larger caravan

[@MAGA-kw3ol]

Just one guys opinion but I think you did the right thing, you bought a caravan that was sized correctly for your van, I have towed RVs from 16 foot to 33 feet long, the most important thing is getting a caravan that is not too big for your tow vehicle. The RV you have is the one you need for yourself right now, maybe in a couple years things will change and you will want something different. I’m driving a campervan now, it’s small but is just what I need for the type of travel I’m doing now, no children only a couple of little dogs, who knows what tomorrow will bring, just enjoy yourself.

[@Roz.S]

Yes, having something that I could safely tow with my van was my main consideration, especially since I had zero towing experience when I started. Thanks so much for watching and commenting. All the best on your adventures 👍🏼

[@larryparson9609]

Happy Trails Thanks 🙏🏼 cute cars characters look 👀 far out 😊

[@tardeliesmagic]

Great video. I would put a solar panel & 2x 100w & 2x batteries in your van & wire it up somehow so you can plug it in the GO-POD ,can't be that complicated to get there surely. Use that for heating & the fridge maybe. I was considering getting a Micro-Lite caravan which you could stand up & only a smidge longer than yours.

[@gregbowl2426]

What a strangely coherent video! I'm not sure why I stopped to view this, but to see someone talking logically about multiple 1st time camper issues isn't normal. (I either live in my 35' sailboat, or my 18' Japanese campervan)

[@Roz.S]

Thanks … I think 😅😅😅

[@Jojo56799]

Love your videos roz, you have taught me so much, ive just got a pod and im brand new to towing i think we are like 2 peas in a pod because i got mine for exactly the same reasons as you i thought about a campervan but for my price range too old lots of miles and i didnt want to get rid of my car as i needed a reliable 1 for work, but like yours i cant tow alot i would of loved a basecamp but id of had to change my car so for now im happy with my pod. Happy podding i cant wait to have adventures like you except i dont have a dog😂

[@Roz.S]

Yep, that was exactly my reasoning too. Thanks so much for watching and best of luck on your adventures.

[@jimc6486]

A battery upgrade sounds likely to be a good move. Like your logical analysis.

[@CaravanConnoisseurDave-x9t]

yes I upgraded my go pods leisure battery to a 135ah AGM battery instead. I got about 4 days off grid use out of it on average.

[@SmokyMountainBlessed]

thanks for sharing your thoughts on your little camper

[@Roz.S]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching.