Offroad Subaru Forester - Backcountry & Camping Build

[@NK-vw4ms]

Donald is the only true minimalist I know that does not need to label and tell everyone that he is a minimalist. Love how you use basic tools to get the job done. More focus on nature than the build.

[@vincentwindels3752]

I like the way your Subaru can just be a daily driver or an adventure car when going to the storage box, very versatile !

[@softroadingthewest]

Indeed, it's nice that it serves both purposes since I can't really afford two vehicles. The Forester makes a terrific daily driver for many of the same reasons it's good on the trail...the small size makes it easy to maneuver in traffic or parking, and the ample interior room is great for transporting kids and groceries and even furniture or other large items...all with much better gas mileage than most offroad-capable rigs. Thanks for watching!

[@bwest6275]

That was the design philosophy behind the Forester. Almost a tribute to the AMC Eagle where you have a lifted wagon for light trail work, with a little more space, but not bloated in size like an SUV. It fit the Japanese market, and fortunately carried over well here. Now you see an explosion of “CUVs” since the first gen Forester.

[@ryanbmadeit8100]

Vincent Windels yea this build is RADD

[@Kdash66]

I love how normal people can relate to your simple approach and diy attitude instead of paying exuberant amounts of cash for top of the line gear like most youtubers.

[@softroadingthewest]

What is that saying, "necessity is the mother of invention?" I'd love to be able to afford throwing a grand here, a grand there at awesome gear to make camp life better, but ultimately it's actually pretty fun coming up with inexpensive DIY solutions and especially rewarding when they actually work out. 8^) Thanks for watching!

[@SaveTheManuals]

Some very clever ideas you've shared here. Especially enjoyed the window screen, and how you stored it.

[@softroadingthewest]

I originally got that idea from Tristan at SUVRVing. He sells a nice little kit that he makes actually. I probably wouldn't have even thought of screens if I hadn't seen his, but in certain areas at certain times of year, it's essential. Thanks for watching!

[@lsc66416]

This is inspiring. I have a 2011 Forester X and recently added all-terrain tyres, but apart from this, my tow bar and roof racks, it's all stock. Such a versatile car! Having added this video to my 'favourite' folder for future reference.

[@48956l]

Wow I actually really love how little money you spent here. I keep seeing these amazing custom setups on youtube that seem completely unobtainable, but yours doesn't seem that way at all and looks like it's working great. Keep up the good work! :D

[@softroadingthewest]

Yeah, I guess it depends on your income level, but it always boggles my mind when I see someone buy a brand new $35,000 rig and immediately throw $15,000 worth of mods and gear onto it. I mean, if I had that kind of money to spare, I suppose I would do the same thing. But it IS kinda fun coming up with just what I actually need, for as little budget as possible. Thanks for watching!

[@mountainconstructions]

As a person that has seen many 4WD fit outs, i am impressed with your cheap and problem solving solution to your needs. Well Done.... ticks all the boxes

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! I still feel I've got some improvements or capabilities yet to add but bit by bit it's getting there. Thanks for watching!

[@alexanderweaver9182]

After watching numerous videos on SUV conversions I find your video the best to help with my own conversion. While working in Lake Arrowhead, CA (San Bernardino Mountains) I noted that Subaru's seemed to be super popular and after driving my boss's Subaru I realized why. Anyway, I love your conversion, inside and outside. The light bar, tires and Thule roof rack are definitely in the plans for my Jeep Compass. The rear interior space seems to be similar to that of your Forester and I'll attempt to make my bed and shelving units. I am no carpenter but I know how to use the tools required. Thank you for sharing and I find it inspirational to get going on my project. You also gave me another great idea and that is to rent a small storage unit for all of my camping gear. I'm running out of room in my house; backpacking and camping for 62 years I've accumulated a lot of gear and being sentimental I tend to keep everything. BTW I love Oregon and was stationed (1969) on a radar site just north of North Bend off of Hwy 101. My favorite lake to fish on was Ten Mile Lakes.

[@softroadingthewest]

Nice! Good luck with your build of the Compass, that seems like a great little rig for this kind of exploring. Thanks for watching!

[@ModernDayPilgrim]

I had a 2007 Subaru Forester for years. Actually just sold her in 2020. She was an amazing vehicle. That body style is my favorite, before they went round. Anyhow, really enjoyed camping with that car. Best adventures ever. Great information! Thanks for sharing ! Happy Trails!!

[@donzimmer4616]

Like the frugality and practicality of your camp setup.

[@KeikoFXDesigns]

I am doing this to my 2004 XC70 Wagon too with a 2" lift... Can't wait to get this project done almost a month away for my build to be completed. Keep up the good work my dude! Wagons are badass when they are lifted.

[@softroadingthewest]

Keiko FX Designs Nice, good luck with the build! Thanks for watching!

[@peterpacciani666]

Piss off with ur Volvo gayshit

[@silver_rd1545]

Great in-depth video dude! I enjoyed the humor you added onto this one. After seeing your rig multiple times up close I still learned a lot about it from this video. Thanks for the mention as well 👍🏼

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks Shawn, had fun with this one. Hopefully we can manage to get out on an actual camping trip at some point this year!

[@Thinkforyourselves64]

@@softroadingthewest -life is short. Don’t wait!!

[@tristanrayner9119]

So many great ideas and functional systems. I love it ! Who cares if it's ugly and or DIY!? If it works and doesn't cost an arm and a leg, that's a win in my book. So many channels on youtube all about the bling and spending thousands and thousands on all kinds of stuff. Thanks for the inspiration and the respectful exploration, happy trails!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you! I'm glad to hear that you --wait...ugly?? Haha, no, that's okay, I'm definitely about function over form...getting the job done (and without spending a fortune) is the priority! Thanks for watching! 8^)

[@tristanrayner9119]

@@softroadingthewest haha, it's usually my creations that are ugly, but hopefully you had a giggle. Cheers again!

[@daveybernard1056]

It's not "ugly". It is utilitarian, affordable and functional. Oh, and people seem to really love that square butane stove.

[@jamestom2510]

Dude, thats sweet. Not going to get rid of my 2012 Forry now. Will do what you did. Excellent. You know something, this is the best vid ive seen re light modding on a budget. Thanx Bud.

[@softroadingthewest]

Haha, "on a budget" is my first criteria, LOL. This setup certainly has its limitations (as I found out this weekend on a 4-day 2-person excursion) but for what I have invested I cannot complain at all about my little campermobile. Thanks for watching and good luck with your build!

[@jamestom2510]

@@softroadingthewest no worries, you've got the best setup. Who wants a permanent setup in a car that is compact. You want the weekend Worrior and week day transporter.

[@elvisbacons9151]

I’m buying a 2013 forester next year and you have the perfectly identical build that I want to achieve!!! Wow dude I’m so jealous right now. I feel more confident doing what I want to do now after watching your video and I will use it as a reference when don’t my build! You’re AWESOME

[@softroadingthewest]

Nice! Good luck with the Forester shopping and the build!

[@jerryrogers5233]

Wow, this is quite inspirational. I'm gonna borrow some ideas of yous and make them fit my 17 Outback. The relays for the lights are neat & clean, the kitchen awesome, and the cheap & ez bug screens make me chuckle. The honesty and humility are perfect. Thanks for the effort and time.

[@theringer2283]

Great video! Quick tip on anyone that has a 2015 or newer. Don’t pay the $400 price at a dealership for fog lights. The hook ups are already in place down near the fog light area and all you have to do is put a relay under the glove compartment, and hook up the switch that’s already in place down by the hood latch. Very little expenditure at all!

[@bcwoodsman876]

Great build and well presented! I had no idea those Foresters were so capable off road. Thanks for taking the time to share this with us. Subbed.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! It certainly doesn't compare to a true 4x4 with low range and lockers but still a great little machine for exploring the wilderness. Thanks for watching (and subbing)!

[@jarvismcleniny2514]

You tinted your LEDs yellow?! YOU ARE A SAINT! THANK YOU!

[@therealtruckerbrown]

Thinking of a forester I am a trucker and I’m loving this channel

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks!

[@JonDZ_Adventuring]

Donald! I just got around to watching this video. You did such a superb job explaining all your mods. I didn’t realize how well thought out your camping system is, ... well.. until you explained it all, so I’m really glad you made this video. It looks like you bought that chainsaw you said you needed! I’m going to have to eventually do a rig walk around camping video as well. Thanks for the shoutout! I’ll need a little more time before I make my video, I have an idea for my sleeping setup, but still haven’t bought the items.

[@softroadingthewest]

It's so funny, because in my day to day life, I'm FAR less orderly and disciplined about "a place for everything and everything in its place." It's almost like excursions & camping are a vacation from the chaos of daily life and somehow that has resulted in a compulsion to make everything as tidy and organized as possible. Heh, when I made this video, I had no idea what the next video would be and didn't know I was building in a spoiler. In fact, I wasn't even going to make a video that day I went out with Rob, but the fallen tree early on inspired me to start filming after all. I look forward to seeing how you evolve your camping in the Passport...it looks *luxuriously* more spacious than the inside of a Forester.

[@foresterboy2011]

Another great video kind sir. Here is proof that big money does not have to be spent to achieve the same outcome. This is a testament for anybody that wants to do overlanding on a budget. This would be my route too and very happy I'd be aswell. Well done.

[@davidduchesne111]

That's a very sensible kit you made, I'm getting my Forester ready for winter camping and I can use some of your ideas. Thanks for the video and keep enjoying the outdoors!

[@jonvu90]

Don’t ever change man. Just started watching your videos and I really love your subtle humorous edits.

[@softroadingthewest]

Aw man this makes my day. Thank you. I often snicker to myself while doing certain bits of these but it seems to largely pass unnoticed, or I suppose it's possible I'm not as funny as I think I am. 8^D Thank you for watching and for the kind words!

[@boundlessoul_studios]

the kitchen can serve as extra seating lol. Thoroughly enjoyed this and the creative diy modifications you've made!

[@softroadingthewest]

LOL, thanks for laughing at that. :-)

[@wslater56]

Best video (and channel) Ive seen after a week of scanning the web looking for Sooby Offroad practical mods. thanks !!

[@aussiesoulsurfer553]

I know you’ve moved on from the Forester however this video has been the go to vid for setting up my 2004 Liberty (legacy) wagon

[@MicajahMcCurry]

How's the build going? Thats an awesome platform to work with!

[@alexroselle]

I just got a used low-mileage 2012 Outback, and this is inspiring!

[@Billy28376]

You have what you need and you built it how you needed it to be. That’s how overlanding should be. Nice setup. I see all these people with thousands into their gear and probably don’t need 90% of it in reality.

[@thefrugaloverlander9019]

Nice vid! I'm glad to see someone else that keeps scrap wood around because you never know when you'll need it for your next project.

[@asplenic16180]

Hey, I just commented on the roof rack build, than scaled out and found this video. Well done. Keeping it simple, DIYing and keeping the scale pretty minimal. Props!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! Heh, minimal budget has a certain amount to do with minimal scale, although limited space comes into play as well. Sometimes I daydream about a more spacious rig, but man I love how nimble this setup is. Thanks for watching!

[@asplenic16180]

@@softroadingthewest simple and nimble have many merits. More space is great yet problematic in other ways. Coming from a Suby sedan then Outback sport with roof box, as the kids grew and our want for more exploration and distance evolved, life needs suggested a larger more capable rig. We love it and where it can take it!! BUT, as my buddy 's mantra holds true, "have space, will fill it." So the more room ya have, the more gear tends to come. ;) Sometimes I miss the simplicity of the sedan or wagon, BUT neither could take us where we're going with confidence now... >;-)

[@jksilta9335]

You just earned a like with those childhood trucker fantasies.

[@conracewhatever5224]

Awesome! I am an outdoor person like you. I had a Nissan NV200 for my daily and weekend adventure. But it was totaled last 3 weeks ago and I'm looking for another car that fits my life style and with my 6 yr old daughter. Bro, you just inspire me! Thank you!

[@japanunfound]

Great vid. Second hand is the way to go for off road vehicles. I can't imagine the nervousness of driving off-road in a brand new Forester. Pretty sure no-one does that.

[@kelleymcbride4633]

Great production value, lotsa neat shots and interesting transitions. Been wanting to do this to my 2012 Outback for awhile now. Also, love your conversion very clever design thanks for the upload!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you!

[@ecksehl]

I am loving your videos and this was one of the better vehicle setup videos I've seen, I wish more people would take the approach you do. You and a select few others inspired me to want to get a Forester, but I think due to family needs I will be going with a 3rd Gen 4Runner in the end. Keep it up man, you inspire me to get out there more!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you! I think you can't go wrong with a 4Runner, it is a proven platform. Plus...low range!The rest of us in our little Foresters are just pretending we're in something that capable. 8^D Thanks for watching!

[@Otto72ish]

@@softroadingthewest Greetings from Argentina. I have a Forester bought new in late 2009. I don't drive that much since I live in the city, but when I do it's often on dirt roads or farmland (when it rains I need four wheel drive). Only done about 26k miles since new, but I hope to keep the car for many more years, as long as I can get parts etc. Recently I was in New Zealand and a friend lent me his old Subaru Outback for a road trip in South Island. It had done about 110k miles and was still running great. So I think I've got plenty of time left. (It's also left parked outside near an airport and rarely used - a spare vacation car - but started first time when I used it.) Why do I like my Forester so much? It's a five speed manual (which I prefer) and has a dual ratio gearbox, which is handy. Your comment about not having it prompted this comment. I guess they sold different model variants in different countries. I like old school. Love the stability of the low centre of gravity too, due to the low-set boxer engine. Enjoyed the video.

[@softroadingthewest]

@@Otto72ish Thanks! Wow, only 26K in 10 years, its practically brand new! I think you'll be able to drive that thing for decades to come. My first Subaru was a Legacy wagon which I bought used with 80,000 miles on the odometer, and sold it 10 years later with 180,000 miles on the odometer. The 4EAT transmission has been great but I would gladly trade it for a manual with low-range...lack of low-range is one of the most limiting aspects of my Forester IMO. The traction control system goes a long ways towards making up for this but too often, I have to rely on momentum in situations that would be far better surmounted with a much slower, crawling approach. Thanks for watching!

[@Otto72ish]

@@softroadingthewest Great all-round family car for on and off road. A bit of wear and tear on bodywork (scratches, couple of minor dents), but actually mainly incurred when parked in shopping malls etc (careless others). Very dusty in the engine bay from those dirt roads in summer. But mechanically no issues. Had to change the windscreen a few years back though, as a passing car threw a stone up from a rough road and the crack grew over time. (Top tip: my wife's nail polish slowed down progress of the crack while we were in a remote place!) It even still has the original tyres and brake pads, although I'll have to change them soon. Incidentally, for various reasons car values depreciate really slowly here, which is why I bought new. I'm from the UK originally and over there I would usually buy something, say, three years old with low mileage and save 50-60%. (Note: My Dad had a string of old Land Rovers, which is why I like having everything manual, leaving the driver with more control.)

[@solosaga5091]

10:50 EXCELLENT! I have a few of those same pouches (from sheet sets, I think). I saved them bc I KNEW a use would present itself. Thanks for the help in presenting!

[@teslah2997]

love your “Jedi” introduction. nice build, and how nice of you to mention other youtube channels! I am a BIG fan of Suv rv’ing, and since discovering your channel last week, am now also subscribed to you

[@matthewrobinson4323]

Sir, you are truly ingenious. Very impressive.

[@stevenate1174]

Awesome!!! I some how missed this video. Picking up my 2011 This Saturday 2/4/23.

[@neilmartinsr4610]

I really enjoy your content. Very well done. I'm in Nampa but our kids moved to Sweet Home, so it's nice to know about areas to explore when we're there.

[@softroadingthewest]

Nice. I've only been to Nampa once, about 25 years ago. My cousin got married there and has been there ever since. He's the golf coach at NNU. I'm hoping to spend some time in Idaho this year or next. I've seen some beautiful photos and videos from your state.

[@eldorado5650]

I have just subscribed to your channel. I have been scouring the site for Subaru overlanding videos and channels and I just found yours. I think your build highlights lightweight overlanding. The car's size teaches us how to travel light even in remote places. Your build is practical and very much personalised. I prefer to see this content than those extremely modified vehicles that usually just get their vehicles to pose for photos and never taste dirt. Your Forester actually plays with it. I, too, overland around NZ with my SG with the stock height. I prefer the stock height, at the moment, as NZ roads have plenty of tight corners, even on gravel roads. Keep up the good work. I am glad I found this channel. Cheers.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you for the kind words. My slow, light modding is certainly in part due to budget constraints but that has forced me to very carefully consider what I need and don't need. Each trip out, I think about what things were unpleasant or inconvenient and then work to improve that detail for next time. Bit by bit it evolves. I don't know if there's a Mtn Roo chapter in NZ (though pretty sure there is in Australia) but if you're not already following the main (worldwide) Mtn Roo Facebook page, you may find it interesting. These are all people who genuinely hit the dirt with their Subies and there's a huge range of modding styles, from down-n-dirty cheap utilitarian DIY to really amazing builds featuring all the top of the line gear, and everything in between. It's a great opportunity to see how various people approach their Subaru adventuring and have discussions with friendly, like-minded folk. Enjoy your Forester excursions...that's certainly some beautiful wilderness scenery you have to explore down there. Thanks for watching!

[@scottlawson9206]

Thank you so much for your video! I'm a HAM radio operator, and I enjoy volunteering to man major events such as the grueling Grindstone 100 race here in the Blue Ridge mountains- motorized access to several of the aid stations are quite rough, and you gave me excellent information on how to better outfit my Forester. 👍👍

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks for watching and good luck with the build!

[@alvashoemaker8536]

I LOVE...the delivery (!!) of this "vid"; it was " to the point" & shared original ideas; THANKS... 👍👣

[@chrischapman2575]

Love this video! Love seeing mini AWD SUVs running the back country. I have a Nissan rogue and after several attempts at trying to purchase an overpriced Jeep Wrangler, I have decided to just turn my rouge into a Overland rig. I don't hate my engine, but I do wish it was a V6 and the I am worried about the CVT transmission. I live in Kansas, so my overlanding is all dirt roads and minimum maintenance roads, so a big Jeep rig really isn't needed. I love where you take your Suburu. It's a lot tougher than most give it credit for. All this said, keep'em coming and safe travels.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! Have fun with the Rogue build!

[@easttennessee6096]

When you replace the budget lights on the bull bar, etc., you might consider an LED light bar. They come in all sizes/shapes and produce a intense light in various patterns. It looks like you are really set well for overlanding even now! Carry on!

[@softroadingthewest]

Stay tuned! Not gonna give away any spoilers, but I do have a long skinny box sitting here. :-)

[@tinkertanner165]

You sure got alot going with that Subaru, really cool DIY perspective.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! Coming up with DIY solutions has become part of the fun actually, and especially rewarding when they actually work (kinda sorta well enough, LOL) out in the wilderness. Thanks for watching!

[@kneehao7227]

The most stylish car camping video. Thanks man!

[@GibsonLover891]

I’m definitely taking a few tips from this video. Great job. I just got a 2004 forester xt and can’t wait to get out there.

[@TheMyeloman]

I built a platform for my wife and I to sleep on during a cross country trek in our ‘05 Suburban, and I built it way too high… It didn’t really bother me too much but she is claustrophobic and had a hard time sleeping with the roof of the vehicle so close. Sadly the ‘Burb has been sold so we’re looking for a suitable replacement rig. Not sure a Forester is big enough for us, but I like what you’ve done with what you have. Nice work!

[@softroadingthewest]

If the Suburban was claustrophobic, I agree a Forester probably not going to be the right choice, heh. 8^D It's already pretty snug for just one person + gear. On the flip side, a Suburban would feel like a mansion to me! Thanks for watching!

[@TheMyeloman]

softroadingthewest only claustrophobic in the sense we were way too close to the roof. The back, with the third row seats out and the second row folded, was the same as a long bed pickup truck. I could fit full sheets of plywood in it, and in truth that’s a big reason I sold it. It was in need of several major things (tires, shocks, and a list of other minor things that add up quick) and I was using it more and more like a pickup. I knew if I kept it the interior would be wrecked in short order, and it was fully loaded… still miss it. It was only 2-wheel drive though too, so it wouldn’t get us far off the beaten path without getting us stuck.

[@ChrisZBr0wn]

Love the rear set-up. Your DIY stuff is simple and functional which is perfect!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you! Function over form for sure...not always pretty but gets the job done. 8^) Thanks for watching!

[@hollylarochelle3088]

This is so brilliant, and I love that you had a scrap wood/budget friendly set-up like I create too. Thanks for the inspiration and I look forward to building some similar things in my Escape.

[@vyacheslavvyacheslav5373]

Hi from Russia from a Forester SG9 Turbo owner. Nice Fozzie!

[@SoundArtMagic]

wow, this might be one of my fav setups. the paper towel mount was next level🙌🏽

[@FreedomToRoam86]

Those old Garmins are unbeatable where there is no cell (although I also like my hiking GPS). Very nice setup, good use of space, not so fancy that you don't want to make changes. And headroom is definitely nice when in the vehicle at night!

[@elikultgen4853]

Awesome build! As a fellow SH adventurer, I love to see another Foz hitting the trail. I really like the low-buck solutions that focus on simplicity and effectiveness. I highly recommend ADF's ditch light mounts if you're looking for some good shoulder and tight-quarter illumination on sketchy trails. I like how the Rally Innov. bar keeps me legal in WA for use with fog/driving lights on the road, but its hard to beat a ditch light on the trail dollar-for-dollar.

[@softroadingthewest]

Yeah, I've seen those brackets. I'm not super fond of the look, having lights mounted in that location, though I imagine on a practical level it must be helpful on the trail at night. Certainly would be nice and easy to wire up! Thanks for watching!

[@rickjames5998]

man I love this. Its just so rugged and modded brilliantly the bullbar with lightz, the iPad mini on the dash. Mmhhmmmm

[@hankmishima4798]

A nice video with some great features. I am also fond of those inexpensive butane burners that can be found at Asian grocery stores, Amazon or places like Smart Food Service. They put out a lot of BTUs and usually include a nice plastic case for about $20. Six cans of butane for under $8 and you are set for a week or more. It will cook a 12 inch pan of Matsutake sukiyaki with ease out in the fall woods

[@cupricfox]

I just want to say thank you for showing us this. Its honestly amazing that you can pack so much in your adventure rig. Thank you for the MANY ideas I will now implement into my rig. You are a blessing for showing this. I cant say thank you enough.

[@softroadingthewest]

It's my pleasure, I'm having fun doing this. I hope it can help you create a setup that enables you to get out there and enjoy yourself. Thanks for watching and good luck with your rig!

[@GPosner8]

Holy cats! Am I reading that number correctly? Dude! You busted into 12k and you were at 10k at the end of 2019. Hot damn. Congratulations. You deserve it👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks! I have no idea what to expect this year. I already never ever would've imagined last year going as it did! Thanks for the support!

[@farnorthpicker56]

We’re much more impressed with your DIY setup on a small budget than any of the $$$$jeep rubicon$$$roof top tent$$$$aftermarket everything$$$$ setups. I’ve always been interested in the Subaru. And in all reality.... how often have you really needed a Jeep?

[@softroadingthewest]

There have been a few moments, but that's pretty infrequent. I have a whole video about that actually. :-)

[@basedury]

this is kind of what I planned on doing to my rav4, you did a great job. it may not be a 4runner or tacoma, but these little awd suvs can still have a lot of fun doing some light off-roading and overlanding!

[@somdfishing4652]

Great video 👍 I do not have a Subaru myself, but I still find all of your videos inspiring. They show that the smaller suv and cuv platforms are more than capable of getting into the back country. I have a 12 crv awd that I have only done a/t tires to, however, I will soon be doing the super strut roof rack mod. Keep the great content coming.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks for the kind words. The CRV is a great little vehicle indeed. Good luck with the roof rack! Still planning to make some tweaks and paint mine, but so far so good here! Thanks for watching!

[@christopherstevenson9737]

Well done! Like the KISS method. Good tips on lift kit, wheels and tires! My 2017 Forester is same clearance as my friends Jeep Renegade! Lights look cool !!

[@RachelinRealLife]

Excellent review! Great editing and I chuckled at the part with you tossing and turning on the bare car floor!

[@softroadingthewest]

Haha! Based on a true story! 8^D Thanks for watching!

[@MatthewHeiskell]

Awesome! I'm moving my 2019 in this direction. You're spot on about the value of the 1" lift! I did that within a month or two. Next, i changed to alloy wheels similar to yours, but I think I fit larger tires than you. I was able to fit 245/65R-17 KO2s. Had to remove the mud flaps, but I have full lock steering without rubbing. I added front and mid skid plates and a read diff guard yesterday. Thanks for sharing this awesome, high quality video!

[@softroadingthewest]

1" is definitely better than 0"! It does make a difference. Sounds like you've got a sweet build going! Thanks for watching!

[@stevechuy1969]

Insightful, informative, great for all true Subaru fans. I tell people how great they are and here's proof! good job!

[@gwlane5509]

Great budget friendly diy ideas here! ....gonna try a similar setup for my 07 Foz. All, remember majority of guys spending big $$ on rigs and mods....usually done on CREDIT. Meanwhile the innovative diy’er are wisely funding retirement and prioritizing family expenses...May you enjoy many more adventures, thx for sharing!

[@hbamiga669]

faded in like obiwan, love it! thanks for all the info! starting to build out my 2011 forester.

[@om617yota8]

Outstanding. Thought the terrain looked familiar, then saw the Oregon license plate. Thanks for showing your build in a direct and concise manner. I subscribed.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you x3!! 8^)

[@yallaintgonnabelievethis]

I love that build. I have an outback and now I have a great idea for removable camp set up.

[@johannmadrid8864]

I actually love this setup

[@henrywit6147]

Great video. Interesting content, very good presentation, and I really like your practical approach. Low / reasonable cost and a high degree of functionality. I mention this as it is refreshing to see as compared to the channels which are also interesting but essentially are advertisements for high dollar builds.

[@igorferlito376]

This is actually a house provided with offroad wheels! Amazing! Now I appreciate much more my Forester. Thanks, beautiful video.

[@shandi1249]

That window screen is genius

[@somethingelse25]

Great video and set up! I have a 2020 Subaru Forester and am taking interest in camping in it. Thanks for the ideas!

[@Matts1154]

Last week I bought a 16’ Forester limited and happened to stumble upon this video. Pretty sure this is my first ever YT comment and I’ve used YT since the start but I just absolutely loved this video and what you’ve done so I had to comment lol awesome vid, makes me want to do the same. Subbed and eager for some new content 😎

[@softroadingthewest]

Congrats on the Forester! Thanks for the kind words. I'm trying to post videos weekly but as I do also have to, you know, work, that doesn't always happen. 8^) Thanks for watching & subbing!

[@Matts1154]

softroadingthewest you’re welcome! Thanks for the good content. I’ve already been digging through your videos and getting ideas/wanting to take the Subie on some adventures lol safe travels!

[@arrowbearianssfusher9176]

LOVE THIS VID!!!!! exactly what I needed to begin my build, thanks so much!

[@si0054]

Perfect, gave me loads of ideas for my 4motion Tiguan. Rather than spend loads of money on a big rig, think I’ll do some mods. Love you kitchen and bed idea. Mine has the same uneven surface with seat dropped

[@softroadingthewest]

Nice, I've seen a number of people using their VWs as softroaders, seems like a great platform. Thanks for watching and good luck with your build!

[@ChrisAtwater]

Really amazing work, I've been looking at getting a Subaru and you might have made the decision a little easier. Thanks for making the video.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks for watching, good luck with the car shopping!

[@psyekl]

I've seen quite a few things I would do differently, but only because of personal preference. Great setup! It looks like you have it well thought-out, and it definitely gives me some great ideas.

[@softroadingthewest]

Oh believe me, there are a few things I would do differently as well, LOL. So much of this is improvised with random crap I already had floating around, and as soon as I finish any project I start thinking about what I should have done differently. Anyway, if this gets you thinking about your own approach, that's awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@ivayloyeah]

You subaru looks great, regarding the lights, if you put the Thule box in the middle you will have a gread base for a small led bar

[@softroadingthewest]

I am actually running a 31" light bar across the front now with the Thule still offset. I mounted one end right to the bottom of the Thule box and extended my Superstrut rack for the other end. You can see how I did that in this more recent vid: kzbin.info/www/bejne/q33NZn2Vn7ysmqc

[@bigeyejim]

I love the removable option. I am going to build a removable set for my grand caravan. Cheers.

[@softroadingthewest]

Indeed, it keeps the car far more versatile as a daily driver to not have a permanent build out installed. Thanks for watching!

[@sponge850bobette7]

Many builds out there are trimmed as is they were sailboat cabinetry. If you can afford or have the hability to do it it is great. But you have an approach of : don’t overthink things. I have a 2007 volco xc70 2,5 L 5c AWD. The Subaru Crosstrek is based on ‘70’ series that has existed forever. Subaru made a lighter les expensive vehicule. There is plenty of room especially if you remove the second row of seats. But the head room is not that much when lying down. Your ‘non coffin’ approach is the right one for me. Tks

[@Sophos1964]

Great video! Love the dog in repose shot.

[@JradandYman]

Great video man! Hopefully I can build my Forester soon and learn from your accomplishments and mistakes!

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you, best of luck with the build!

[@alex62bmw]

Good work! Your movie Inspires me to expand my '12 Forester in this way too. Fabulous! Alex from Switzerland

[@softroadingthewest]

Thank you Alex! I imagine there must be some nice Alpine tracks to explore in your corner of the world. Thanks for watching!

[@RTcarmines]

The sliding surfaces are so clever

[@steelshotproductions]

I have the 2” ADF lift on my 2016 Outback with 33” BFG AT tires and it makes an incredible difference. I’m 5’11” and I almost have to step down when getting out of the car.

[@InteractiveMail]

I have a 2016 Forester and I totally loved this vid.

[@softroadingthewest]

Thanks!

[@jamesmac7040]

The mosquito net idea is awesome!

[@stevemorse5052]

Thanks for an informative video, it has given me some ideas for my 2001 Forester. BTW, the best video yet on Subaru conversion!

[@vinhha6073]

I did on my RDX 08, as almost same way, all i learn is here, you tube, just like him, 2-3 days in forest, river, lakes.... alone... its alots of funs... Drone, and good camera... all i need...

[@SilverScarletSpider]

I noticed, your auxiliary lights are pretty weak, glad to hear you’ve since addressed their output and replaced them 👍 thank you for sharing brother

[@softroadingthewest]

I have not yet addressed their output, but I want to. A friend of mine simply replaced the bulbs in his Hella lights and it made a huge difference, so at some point I'll likely follow suit. The cheap LEDs below though, those just need to be completely swapped out for something else. 8^D As I'm so rarely on the trail after dark, it has remained a lower priority, but one day!

[@ChaseChristopher1]

Awesome! I’ve finished out the interior conversion of mine, but yours makes me thing my exterior needs some additions👍

[@keeganhenrikson3596]

Awesome video which inspired me to get out into nature in the 2020 Subaru Forester I recently purchased. Thank you very much. Subscribed!

[@squirrelsflying6180]

For the UHF, I had a single din uhf unit spare. I needed it for a road trip. found that i can SHOVE it inbetween the transmission tunnel trim + near the armrest and the passenger seat. I have a wire that i can tuck away if i want to remove it. No mounting or modifying

[@kevod09]

Yes definately eyeing up a 08 or 09 possibly 010 forester in the near future, love the one with the inlet opening on the hood . Yep my next car for sure.

[@softroadingthewest]

The hood scoop models are the XTs...the turbo version of the Forester, which are definitely well-loved by those who have them. They sure look good with that scoop.

[@JoshEbersole]

As a fellow Subaru owner, this is awesome! I’m slowly working on getting my car ready for car camping/overlanding.