Subaru Forester Camper Tour and Gear Guide - Solo Around North America

A few months ago I converted my 2008 Subaru Forester XT Sports MT into a car camping build and embarked on a really long solo road trip around North America. Since then I've driven almost 11,000 miles while living in my car. In this video I talk about pros and cons of my build, and show my setup & the camping gear I'm using.
Follow me on Instagram: / asha_slaw
GEAR I'm using (these are not affiliate links):
Side note: in my video I mention ‪@rei‬ multiple times because that's where I mostly buy my gear.
Lantern: www.blackdiamondequipment.com...
Sleeping bag liner: seatosummit.com/products/prem...
Sleeping mattress: www.rei.com/product/113719/ex...
Fitted sheet: www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07...
Storage containers: www.homedepot.com/p/Sterilite...
Water jug: www.dometic.com/en-us/outdoor...
Headlamp: www.dometic.com/en-us/outdoor...
Portable power station: www.jackery.com/products/expl...
Shoulder bag: www.peakdesign.com/products/f...
Trowel: www.rei.com/product/225131/th...
Wilderness wash: seatosummit.com/products/wild...
Butane stove: www.rei.com/product/187621/eu...
Pocket stove: www.msrgear.com/stoves/canist...
Cooler: www.yeti.com/coolers/hard-coo...
Water bottle: www.hydroflask.com/21-oz-stan...
Travel mug: www.rei.com/product/189564/pu...
Pan: jetboil.johnsonoutdoors.com/u...
Pot: www.rei.com/product/196088/se...
InReach Mini: www.rei.com/product/208257/ga...
Initial inspiration: / @chasechristopher1

[@sharongriffin342]

Your organization and tidiness makes your car camper the most impressive one that I have seen. Thank you for the very enjoyable tour.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you so much for this comment - it really means a lot to me. And thank you for watching :)

[@FredPerryUSA]

Ref draining your cooler; a short piece of clear syphon hose, say 30" long with 3/8" diameter from Lowe's/ Home Depot will drain your cooler in place. Use your mouth to create the initial suction and then place the other end outside your car door and below the water level of the cooler and it ( gravity) will drain on its own. You're welcome😊

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! :)

[@krisandbrandyblomquist3364]

You can put a puppy pee pad under your little table (with the absorbent side up) to catch any spills and prevent your insulation from getting wet. You can get a small pack of 3 or 4 at the dollar store. Also great to put your shoes onto when you take them off... keeps the dirt and mud contained. 😊

[@ashaslaw]

It’s such a good suggestion! Thank you so much!

[@lorihutton9535]

I keep one in winter at my door, dogs use too ( only during late night ). It helps keep bad weather leaves, mud,rain,snow,etc. at bay. The white covering, debris seems to stick. Weather changing trick. If you live off grid they are great to use under urine bottle or porta pottie. Many uses.....

[@jiniefox6126]

Great idea

[@EmmaKnightleyNo1]

Keep feet warm at night: Always keep boiled water in a good thermos, or boil it directly before putting it in a hot water bottle - easy, low cost and low energy way to keep toasty at night, very old-fashioned but works!

[@ashaslaw]

Great tip! Thanks so much!

[@BossLady263]

A love a hot water bottle especially in winter... my bills remain super low 😂

[@cj9667]

Love your system. Get yourself some down booties to wear inside your sleeping bag.

[@ashaslaw]

What an amazing idea - I’ve never thought about getting down booties! Thanks!

[@rnldtylr]

Just a tip, if you wax the slide out tables with some paste wax they will slide out much easier. Any type of paste wax should work.

[@Scotty2hotty-xc6gi]

Candle wax. Cheap

[@ashaslaw]

That is a really really good idea! I have never though about it - thank you so much!

[@PartyUpLive]

I do the same thing with my artificial Christmas tree. I use it on the metal poles to make it easier to take apart.

[@Scotty2hotty-xc6gi]

@@ashaslaw Your 🙏 welcome Try wax on sluggish zippers also✅✅

[@mcspin50]

You’ve thought out your vehicle and travel situation very well. Lots of great ideas and information.

[@michelejeanneault8603]

Another tip .. A 12volt electric blanket which you plug into your car .. Is wonderful to prewarm your sleeping bag . I have slept in deep temps with mine. Cheers & happy travels!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for this tip! Save and happy travels to you too!

[@sharonsjoyfuljourney9830]

I love the idea of using the elastic cords to hold your window covers and the light, awesome idea!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you :)

[@d.trudeau]

I appreciate that you made the video with the experiment behind you. Everything seems well thought out and tested! Too much video of people experimenting in front of us without knowing if the installation or products will be effective! 🙏 Many beautiful trips to you !

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for this comment. It was important to me to test the gear I use before sharing my thoughts about it with the world.

[@kennywilliams3805]

Loved your video. Many handy tips. Happy camping Asha. Stay safe .

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you so much! Happy camping to you too!

[@mythicalnomadadventure969]

No suggestions. You'll do just fine with that setup😊.

[@n3tuf]

Asha, I loved your video! I have a 2023 Forester and I am fitting it out for a no build car camper. I like that you are so well organized and hope you have many great adventures ahead of you! Maybe we could meet on the road sometime in the future.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! I’m so glad you found my video and build interesting :) congrats on your new Forester and good luck with your no build system. Wish you maaaany amazing adventures!

[@fanfu1162]

You can empty water in the cooler using a 3/8" clear holes, use your mouth suck some water before it gets close to your mouth, then release it to a lower position, you can completely empty water in the cooler without lifting it out

[@jeannerountree952]

I have a 2021 Forrester and love it. It’s nice to see what a build looks like.

[@ashaslaw]

Glad you found it interesting :)

[@MariaDiaz-of6qz]

Thanks for sharing your experience. It's really inspiring for starting to travel! ❤

[@ashaslaw]

My pleasure!

[@SRVfangirl]

Wow what a great job you did with this. Extremely well thought out & efficient.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you very much - so glad you liked it.

[@zameerpactyan]

All the best with your journey!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! All the best to you too

[@stevenate1174]

Very nice build. Love my Forester!!!

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks! Foresters are the best! ;)

[@mandyharrison3617]

Very useful; thank you for being as thorough as you have been. I wish I would have seen this video before I was living in my Subaru Forester. Thank you.

[@ashaslaw]

I’m really happy you found my video useful and interesting! Thank you for watching and safe travels ✨

[@livinglikarockstar]

Very creative use of space and resources... I love it!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! :)

[@laurenvisser2004]

Thanks for sharing your video, love the conversion!! Stay safe as you travel abroad💖

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@maebrown2938]

You are so organized and a pleasure to watch. Subcribed. Safe travels.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@sandramaher4243]

This was excellent ,I truly enjoyed the tour. Stay safe,. Thank you🌹

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@KamberKahu]

Great video. Happy and safe travels 😊

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! Safe travels to you too :)

[@mmoltich]

You had me at “manual transmission”. ❤😊

[@ashaslaw]

Haha! 😄 manual transmission for life!

[@cowboyscoffee]

Remarkable advice and adventures

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you

[@kimlee6970]

Great video! Thanks for sharing your ideas 🙏🏻

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! So glad you found it interesting.

[@user-hv9ks2hf6f]

A lot of good ideas. Thanks

[@ashaslaw]

Glad you like them!

[@davefield8100]

Very ingenious. I have a friend who traveled for a year in the same car. He was not so organized and is looking for something larger. Being so creative has paid off for you.

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks for a nice comment! I think it's a must to be organized in such a small car :)

[@jayhutch8285]

That’s a great set up. I’ve been doing the same in my SUV. Going on three years. I’m from Wisconsin.👍

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! And wow, three years! Good for you! :)

[@karlmurray2225]

Great setup for car size and well explained.

[@ashaslaw]

Glad you liked it!

[@nadiasureda883]

Such an inspirational video! Thank you for sharing. I have a Subaru Crosstrek that I want to build out similar to how you did yours. So many good ideas.! 😊

[@ashaslaw]

I am so happy that you found my video inspiring! :) You chose a perfect car to convert into a camper. There is another video on my channel where I explain in detail my whole build (without the gear) and mounting - maybe you will find it useful when designing your setup. Good luck with your build and safe travels! :)

[@bonniematthews2500]

Great set up!!!!!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@joyjournal6157]

Thanks Asha! New subbie here. You've given me lots of ideas for my car conversion!

[@ashaslaw]

so glad you found it useful! good luck with your build :)

[@martinj2843]

You are very clever, I’m very impressed in the way you go about things 👍✌️

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you very much!

[@bethcollier3789]

Great video, thank you, it was inspirational. I intend using my Forester after I have given it a mechanical once-over. I will have my 2 cats as companions too.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you… It will be so fun for you to have your cats as companions. Good luck with your build!

[@andreaduprey4116]

I love this ! I’m a Subi girl , I have a forester and a fur baby !! Thank you 🙏

[@ashaslaw]

High five! 🙌

[@scottphillips471]

I share your adventure for travel and driving. This past July, I ventured from Wisconsin toward NYC to see the World Trade Center, taking in the attractions along the way. Detroit, Cleveland, Canton, Shanksville and Philadelphia for the fireworks on the Fourth. The 5th of July I visited the 102nd floor of One World Trade Center. Then north to Maine, after covering the Northeast, back to Washington D.C. to the third 9/11 crash site. West to Bowling Green, Kentucky, Nashville and on to the Florida Keys. West to New Orleans, north to Nebraska, south to Texas and westward, with stops at the Four Corners, Grand Canyon and Hoover Dam, I was off to the Golden Gate Bridge. North to Multnomah Falls and the Seattle Space Needle, east to North Dakota, south to Devil’s Tower and finally east to Wisconsin. 48 states in all, camped in my van every night and averaged over 500 miles a day, until the last day, that one was 1,000 miles. Totaling 13,482 miles in 24 days. It’s a big country, go visit somewhere!! Safe travels

[@ashaslaw]

Oh wow! So many miles in less than a month! I’m super impressed. Sounds like a trip of a lifetime though! So happy for you. Safe travels!

[@caaront]

I love the build, and subscibed. Thank you for sharing with us and please be safe.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for your kind comment.

[@caaront]

You're welcome. 1@@ashaslaw

[@Pjbuck55]

Everything is so organized. Thank you for sharing and safe travels for you❤

[@ramonapuckett3059]

Thank you for the informative video ❤

[@ashaslaw]

So glad you found it interesting!

[@jenniehaxton1240]

Enjoyed your tour great set up practical and comfortable I like tidy as well Safe travels

[@ashaslaw]

Really glad you enjoyed my video - thanks for watching and safe travels to you too!

[@user-us9jm3xk5e]

Love it. I’m inspired

[@ashaslaw]

I’m so glad to read this! Good luck with your build :)

[@jsdhornby]

Really enjoyed your video. Very gentle and caring presentation. I love camping in my car and several of your ideas are certain to be used by me. I love the use of elastic. I agree, the butane stoves are more stable, if a bit large. Your foam mattress is something I will have a look at. Thanks very much!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you so much for your nice comment. When I was recording this video, I really hoped some people will find it/ my tips useful. The mattress is worth every penny (but I would try to wait and get it on sale at REI). Have an amazing summer and as always - stay safe.

[@cathyyoung3897]

Your set up is nice

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@lisawolff4307]

thank you, verry helpful for the trip i am planning.

[@ashaslaw]

So glad you found it useful! Good luck with your trip and stay safe :)

[@rodmeisterful]

What a nice job!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you!

[@lisamorrisette171]

Impressive, love the design and those pull out tables are genius even if the stick.😄

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! :)

[@E.R.Schnaben]

Good work. Love the organization. Admire your creativity. Your accent and on-camera confident delivery with English as your secondary (?) language combined, make you and your video interesting to watch. Safe travels always.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for such a nice comment. Indeed, English is not my native language. I'm really happy that you found my video interesting. Safe travels to you too!

[@E.R.Schnaben]

I’m not a vehicle nomad. I’m anchored to my lovely home just enjoying the many videos on KZbin such as yours. Watching the adventurers gives me a sense of what it must be like to be that free to roam. Who knows, I may one day gear up and hit the road for a trip or two.

[@therealtashiro]

Great video Asha! Stay safe and Stay Free! 👍🏻🇺🇸🍻

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! Will do!

[@therealtashiro]

@@ashaslaw Hope to see you on the road someday! I'm working on it! 😊🇺🇸🍻

[@richbowie76]

Love the Banana Hammock !👍🍻✌

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks! :D

[@nadechy]

Hej Aśka! Dzięki za kupę fajnych podpowiedzi😛. Cisnę zaraz w Stany na kilka, mam nadzieję miesięcy w Twoim stylu z grubsza !

[@ashaslaw]

Haha, nie ma za co! ;) szerokości! I uważaj w szczególności na niedźwiedzie i pumy.

[@TheImageRevelation]

Nice job - focused prioritized layout , I'm tossing up between 4 x 4 wagon and compact van - given the very temperate climate here in north island nz very keen on building in " indoor /outdoor flow"😀Go well👍

[@ashaslaw]

Super happy you found it interesting! I visited NZ a few years ago in summer and the weather was… capricious. I find it a bit challenging to camp in the car in rainy weather for longer than a week, so if I were you I would consider a small van (not that you asked for my opinion… 😅). Good luck with you build and happy camping - NZ is such a beautiful place!

[@OrangeGrundo]

thank you and best wishes to you.

[@susie9893]

Thanks for sharing. I love watching women who are doing this solo on a small scale and practically. I too have a lot of security concerns when travelling solo. I don't think you're maximising your use of that massive jackery you have but apart from that this was great. (I need to watch it again to get all the details - maybe you should do a series of videos breaking down the elements of your build? eg. clothes - why you wear what you wear and where you store them, toiletries, cooking, etc) I particularly thought that storing your essential toiletries in a fanny pack clipped to the back of the driver's seat was genius! Must remember that! Have you thought of rubbing down the sides of your pull out trays with a candle? Kinda like waxing skis - makes for smoother run 😊

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for your suggestion regarding a series of shorter videos - I may do it in the future (when I am back on the road, which is soon)! I am really happy that you found my videos and ideas useful :) safe travels!

[@TTraveller3]

Inspirational! Keep safe. Enjoy each day! 🙏🙏🙏

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! You too! 🙌

[@PartyUpLive]

I plan on going on solo road trips next summer. 8 have pretty much all of what I'll need. I ended up getting a car fridge. Didn't want to deal with getting ice. I do need to look into a small stove. I got a 1.1 liter pot for cooking. Should be enough for just me. I did pick up a few ideas. Thanks for sharing.

[@ashaslaw]

I am so glad you found my video interesting! My pot is 1.9l. but it also serves me as a mixing bowl for salads, etc. What kind of power source are you going to use for your fridge? I hope you will enjoy every second of your solo road trips! :)

[@PartyUpLive]

@@ashaslaw I have a 1500wh battery power station that's mainly for the fridge, and a 500wh and 300wh for everything else. I tested the fridge with the 1500wh by leaving it in my van in 90 degree weather and it ran for 3 days down to 17% the third day. I also have a 100 watt solar panel.

[@user-vk9ng6mm8g]

You want to know where everything is I personally should like to know but I can’t bring myself be that organized. Good job you do with that.

[@ashaslaw]

I totally get that! I’m normally super messy but had to teach myself to be organized while car camping to safe myself some time and all of the frustration :)

[@denisedevaughn544]

I love the idea of putting cords across the ceiling for the shades. Last trip, it was a pain taking them down and having to roll them up.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! It really works well for me - shades don't take much space and stay in place on long drives. Safe travels!

[@maurea9027]

I love your set up! Super inspirational. Where is that campground? I loved all those biking trails!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for such a nice comment! The campground is in Colorado and it’s called North Fruita (it’s on BLM land).

[@marianfrances4959]

Awesome! Thank you! 👍🇨🇦😎

[@ashaslaw]

Glad you liked it!

[@gailjohnson6670]

New subscriber. You are amazing. Awesome build and organization. I'll have to watch this several more times to absorb all the information. Love it! Plus your other videos. Thank you for the video and sharing. I think the Garmin is a must for anyone whether alone or with others. How much did it cost and subscription? Thank you again. Blessings to you.

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks a lot for a nice comment and a sub! I bought my Garmin at REI on sale (they go on sale there twice a year) but don't remember exact price. I maintain the basic subscription, which costs $14/month.

[@gailjohnson6670]

@@ashaslaw I'll have to check it out. Thank you for the info I appreciate it.

[@belindamceathron304]

If you are struggling with condensation, use Dri Z Air or Damp rid to help with that. Great set up

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for the suggestion!

[@ericsutherland6506]

I like it !!!!!!!!🔥

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! :)

[@MojitaBruu]

Fajny kamperek! Teraz się szykuję do zmiany auta i Forek też jest w rozważaniach ;)

[@ashaslaw]

Dzieki! Forester zdecydowanie daje rade :)

[@lareekline8232]

Great job! I don't have that much of a build but do basically what you do. I do wear socks and warm slippers that go over my ankles on frigid nights! I never wear them outside the vehicle. Your Uggs would work!

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! I also wear wool socks when it's super cold, but may purchase down booties soon. Stay safe!

[@julieweber3398]

I read that a hot water bottle stays warm for most of the night. Maybe keep one of those down by the bottom inside your sleeping bag?👍

[@briancclevenger]

Wow very useful information and thanks for describing in details what's needed. I like camp cooking so what are your favorite meals to fix for yourself?

[@ashaslaw]

You are very welcome! On cold mornings I always make a hot porridge on oat milk. My fav one is with cocoa, raspberries, banana and nut butter - suuuuper comforting. And my go to dinner is brown rice pasta with pesto, canned tuna, avocado, black olives and fresh arugula (I know it sounds weird but is actually super yummy!).

[@briancclevenger]

@@ashaslaw I knew when I asked that your reply would make me hungry to try these, and it did. lol Thanks and stay safe.

[@killersushi99]

*Investment into a low profile roof box would give you more storage for larger things. I have an inno 660 and its great.*

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks for the comment, though I’m perfectly happy with amount of space I currently have.

[@MariOnTheRoad]

Then she will loose the roof window.

[@fanfu1162]

The second blanket presses the down sleeping bag, make it less warm, you should just use a lightweight sleeping bag cover to solve the condensation issue, that cover alone can increase sleeping bag warmth by 5 to 10 degree

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks for a comment! My synthetic blanket is super lightweight so it actually serves as a sleeping bag cover and makes it much warmer :)

[@blues_trails_xklndr1026]

Hello Asha, just found your channel and started following right away , have you ever thought about doing the Panamerican Hway ?

[@ashaslaw]

I may drive the Panamerican Hway one day… ;)

[@TimmyCramer]

Subscribed! Timmy C Arizona 😊

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks Timmy!

[@Panzeresq]

Greetings from Norway. A very smart and inspiring set-up. Thank you very much for sharing. I find myself watching a lot of KZbin videos on travellers u-sving multitools such as Leatherman or (my favourite) Victorinox Swiss Army knifes. Maybe your take on that could be a video

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for both - a nice comment and your suggestion. Norway is a truly beautiful place!

[@mikam8801]

I put a plastic tray where you have that wood seat. You could put it right on top. If you do spill, it would capture some of the liquid. I also like that I can wipe it clean because I put my food there when I’m eating/drinking in bed…in the car.

[@ashaslaw]

That is a really good idea... never thought about putting a container there to catch water. Thanks so much!

[@Jude2408]

Blacking out everything is a great strategy.

[@ashaslaw]

Yes! It works really really well.

[@julisman2011]

Excellent work. Would you share the plans and measurements?

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you! I would need to create a digital version of my plans and convert all measurements into imperial units - I may do it in the future when I find some time.

[@Maximoootom]

Try a weighted blanket. I found it very helpful to keep warm in freezing temperatures

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks for the tip!

[@Jamie-tq9yq]

Thanks so much for sharing! I'm preparing for a similar trip so this is incredibly helpful. I'm curious what you do during rainy weather. Do you have any sort of shelter that allows you to spend time relaxing outside of your car, or do you just stay in the car during those times?

[@ashaslaw]

I'm so so happy your found this video helpful! Regarding rainy weather - when the trunk door is up, there is no gap between the roof of my car and trunk door so I can easily sit in the back of my trunk (and even use my sliding tables) when it drizzles/light rain. When the weather is really bad I stay inside (when my sunroof is uncovered I can easily sit up in the middle of the car). Also, I try to take into consideration the weather forecast when planning my route. Hope this helps. Good luck with your trip!

[@Jamie-tq9yq]

@@ashaslaw that makes sense. Thanks for the response!

[@barontynan]

Really like your setup. Well done and organized. I’m in the process of getting my Forester setup. Question: Any reason why you’re taking advantage of a roof rack with a storage box for even more space? I guess it would take away from your nice sunroof view. Safe travels.

[@ashaslaw]

There are actually many reasons and yes, one of them is taking away the sunroof view ;) besides that, I actually enjoy having less stuff on me - I find it refreshing to be a minimialist on the road/while car camping. There is also a safety factor - roof rack draws attention to the car and when I travel solo, I prefer to avoid it. Hope this answers your question :) safe travels to you too!

[@grtchldy6561]

A pointer to those who don’t know where to get elastic chording - look up Seattle Fabrics, Rockywoods, or The Rainshed. They all sell it but the foot, yard or inch.

[@ashaslaw]

I got mine at REI.

[@SN-hg6bx]

A thought….Why keep the right seat in? So much space there. Also, elevating the back platform to use the space underneath in pull outs…more space to sleep/more storing, a pull out cooking area…plank and stove ❤. Question is…do you need/want it😉. Also, a hooked shower curtain around the back while your hatch is opened for….showers 😂

[@ashaslaw]

Regarding the passanger seat - when I’m on a really long road trip, my friends and family members occasionally meet me somewhere along the way for a day or two, so I need that seat 😉 I intentionally didn’t elevate my platform - I like having a lot of space above me when I sleep. Also, thanks to that I’m also able to sit up in the back when it’s raining outside. Third reason - I enjoy not having too much stuff in my car, and I simply don’t need more storage. I guess it all is just a personal preferance 🙂 clever suggesstion regarding a curtain and shower! Thanks!

[@SN-hg6bx]

@@ashaslaw thanks for sharing your 10 000hrs experience♥️ on that curtain shower idea option ….a pull out toilet seat (with a bag😂) and i was thinking…attaching a remivable support if some kind to the side and roof of the car for hamac😃

[@GoTerry]

Very Thorough tour, I'll have to see more... which camp ground was that you are in? (of course wait until you leave before giving away your fav spot) Thanks in advance

[@ashaslaw]

I so glad you’ve found my video interesting! The campground is located near Grand Junction, CO and is called North Fruita.

[@jwblaser]

You can get an adapter for the pocket rocket stove that makes it possible to use the stove without putting it on top of the canister

[@ashaslaw]

Thanks for the tip - I didn't know about it! Will definitely look into it.

[@fairlind]

Looks like you thought of everything. I would just add a vinyl table cloth over that insulation with wires underneath, because accidents happen. But it looks like a cool setup you have there.

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you for your suggestion - unfortunately vinyl cloth wouldn’t work as I often get condensation in the car so my insulation has to “breathe”. Cables are double wrapped with an electrical tape so thay are fairly secure. I’m glad you like my setup!

[@fairlind]

@@ashaslaw Drat, I didn’t think of that.

[@briantodd4887]

So funny, I have the same mattress and cooler. I keep all my window reflectives under the MegaMat . You sure have a lot of space since you took seats out. I opted to keep the back seat in and purchased a rooftop box. Do you spend more nights car-camping or in airbnbs?

[@ashaslaw]

I spend most of my nights car camping. I'd say I take an airbnb every two weeks for a day or two.

[@dominika4708]

hi, I like your built and organised storage a lot. Could you say what fabric was used for the window covers and is it glued or sewed onto reflectix? How did you make them? Thanks and happy travels

[@ashaslaw]

Hi, I’m really happy your found my video interesting! I bought the cheapest black fabric I could find at Hobby Lobby - it looks and feels like a fabric that Target uses for their reusable bags. It’s great because it doesn’t get wet from the condensation. I glued it onto Reflectix with a spray adhesive which dries super fast - it took me one afternoon to make all those shades. Happy and safe travels to you too!

[@dominika4708]

@@ashaslaw Thank you for your time and reply. Could you tell me how did you cut the shapes for windows as I find it a bit challenging. x

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

Thank you. What do you do for heat when you need it?

[@ashaslaw]

I don't use any additional heat source. I am originally from Poland, so I actually enjoy cold temperatures. If it is really cold at night I usually put a hot water bottle in my sleeping bag.

[@scaredy-cat]

How do you find good places to camp

[@amandant]

21:29 put ice in a plastic bag to catch all the water

[@FieldingSmith]

Would love to hear about the things that you thought you needed in the beginning, but ended up getting rid of after finding them not as useful. I’ve got my buildout pretty much done and have done a few short trips, but will be leaving in the spring for a 6 month trip to explore the western US.

[@ashaslaw]

That's a really good question! When I was getting ready for this trip I felt overwhelmed by the options - there are so many cool camping items/gadgets on the market. So in the end I decided to take another approach - start my road trip light only with necessities and then see along the way what else I need and buy it at that point. Thanks to that I avoided wasting money and ended up only with items I really need (all shown in the video). Before the trip I was considering getting a car fridge, but I am actually happy I went with a cooler as I don't have to worry about the reliable source of power. So answering your question - the only thing I can think of are clothes... After a few weeks I realised I keep wearing the same sets of clothes. So I'd say pack half of the amount of the clothes you are planning to take. I also have a little USB charged fan I bought in the beginning but used it maybe 2 times. Though that's just a personal preference. Six months feels like the right amount of time for an epic adventure in the West! What model of the car have you converted?

[@FieldingSmith]

@@ashaslaw i have an Outback. Similar setup to what you and Chase Christopher did, but only removed the passenger side of the rear seat, so that I could have a 3rd passenger or a place in the back to sit comfortably. I did go with a small fridge though, but already had to have more power because I have to sleep with a cpap, and the fridge fits in my rear floorboard.

[@user-vg6pj2my2n]

Good question.

[@parkcrashers5922]

Chins makes really good batteries 🔋 for the price.

[@parkcrashers5922]

​@ashaslaw have you ever used electric blankets for the cold? If you have how useful are they?

[@foreverirish132]

I have the same mattress and I’m just wondering if you wouldn’t mind linking the sheet you got for it? Thanks 😊

[@ashaslaw]

I just added a link to the sheet in the description of my video :)

[@billybert3506]

Thanks for such a great vehicle tour. *

[@ashaslaw]

Thank you so much! Never had a chance to drive a Crosstrek but heard many good things about it. Safe travels!

[@messengerofgoodnews]

What about the magnetic lighting you used? I would love to know the brand and price! ❤

[@ashaslaw]

The lantern is from Black Diamond - there are different options (the one I have is USB rechargeable). I added a link to it in the description of my video.

[@FemaleVillageElder]

You’ve got a pretty powerful Jackery there, is there not a ceramic heater that you can plug into that occasionally to keep warm?

[@ashaslaw]

I haven't thought about it... Thank you for your suggestion - will look into it!

[@susie9893]

​@@ashaslawI've heard good things about ceramic space heaters from other vanlifers. Supposed to be ultra efficient

[@user-xx6zb6cq4p]

How many miles do you have on your car when you bought it? I have a 118K 2017 Subaru Outback and thinking of doing what you are doing. Thanks for sharing. Safe travels.

[@ashaslaw]

The mileage was similar to yours… Don’t let the mileage stop you from going for such an awesome adventure - just keep an eye on your oil, and change it regularly along the way. And while doing the service, always ask them to properly inspect the whole car. Stay safe and enjoy the road!

[@tamrawhitney]

If you have the hatch open in the back for a long period of time the battery runs low or do you have a way to prevent the lights from using the battery?

[@ashaslaw]

I trick my car by putting a thin metal carabiner into a hatch lock so the car think it's locked.

[@stingrayshark9373]

If your travelling & sleeping in your car, the best thing to do is tint all your back windows with 5% limo tint.

[@ashaslaw]

That's a good idea! thanks!

[@dorotawszolek1468]

Hello. I am looking for a good and comfortable single-person mattress. Where did you buy your mattress, please provide a link.

[@ashaslaw]

You can find all links to my gear in the video description.

[@tonyjames9537]

歡迎來澳洲自駕遊。澳洲有全球最長的一號公路，全程一萬四千五百公里。一定給你一個大大的驚喜。

[@jennycampbell6477]

How do you access your spare tyre??

[@ashaslaw]

I’d have to remove my sleeping platform to get it. Though it takes 8-10 minutes. Also, I have a tire repair kit in an accessible place.

[@bwrbd]

Ciekawy content, czy jest możliwość kupić i zarejestrować auto w Stanach bez meldunku ?

[@ashaslaw]

Dziękuję. Co do rejestracji - w każdym stanie są inne wymogi zarówno meldunkowe, jak i rejestracji pojazdów.

[@kymcrowart7876]

Will your Jackery run an electric blanket all night?

[@ashaslaw]

That is a really good question... I don't use an electric blanket and don't know how much power it requires, so am not sure if this particular Jackery is powerful enough to run it all night long. All I know is that I can charge my laptop up to 10 times from that Jackery.