How to Turn Any SUV into a Camper (With No Permanent Modifications!) - Kia Borrego Tour

[@notwrkn2mch]

Black curtains look like "no curtains" and doesn't arouse suspicion if needed to stealth camp in a parking lot. I used the same setup for many years and i got to say...... you really got it together

[@roxannegordon6162]

Do you carry bear spray? I wonder if Laurie does?

[@notwrkn2mch]

@@roxannegordon6162 We are in Arizona. Our bear spray of choice is a 357 Magnum with Hollow point Bullets'

[@fightingtosurvive6527]

@@notwrkn2mch LOL, that's exactly what I have.

[@NicksSuspension]

One of my favorite things to do is use anything that is seen from the outside in black and then on the inside I use all kinds of colors so the moment you get inside it's like a mini Paradise

[@terfradfem3723]

@@notwrkn2mch wow, I actually almost spit out my drink to laugh on that one. I love 🇺🇸 😂

[@Lunchladydoyle]

Wow. She has thought of everything and hasn’t wasted an inch of space. I see why she is smiling as she showed it off. A+ 💯

[@tennisbum3686]

Didn't think of everything, cooking? Where to use the toilet? What type of Cooler, with ice? For me, she got a C+. I like her setup taking out the seats.

[@JJAVA-wt6eo]

@@tennisbum3686 near the end of the video, the toilet is mentioned, her water was stored on the passenger floor and I'mma guessin' she's doing the drive through buffets :)

[@knitsewfast]

@@tennisbum3686 Her ice chest was right there to the right of the slider entrance. In Quartzite, she isn't boondocking so she can get to a store. Plus, it was January, so there wasn't a lot of heat yet to melt her ice. This was a video about her vehicle set up, not a complete break down of her lifestyle.

[@bdmenne]

@@JJAVA-wt6eoI like to have no less than 5 gallons. Looked like she had 3. Not enough for remote week longs. Maybe it was for weekend.

[@bdmenne]

@@knitsewfast love shoulder season camping, with cooler. At night gets close to freezing, especially desert. Put all melting ice outside to refreeze. I’ve had the same frozen block of ice for 2 weeks in my cooler. It has lost 2/3 it’s size. I got two. To keep each other cold, and week later I got two more large blocks. Only reducing their size by 1/3 now. AZ sells dense blocks & I understand why.

[@trinitywright7122]

I watched a whole bunch of these and this is the most favorite one I have seen out of at least 20 videos because she made nothing permanent. So it can go back to being her SUV full-time! This lady did a wonderful job and I love it.

[@theminister1154]

I'm going to give you some advice. You won't like it. It's not cute, but I do have 500 Days sleeping in a small SUV. A Honda Element precisely, one that has a lot of headroom. *Never build a raised platform.* that's for a full size van at minimum. They look real cute, but when you get stuck in there on a nasty weather day, and you will encounter them, you will regret your raised platform. Also they sleep hot. Heat rises, less air flow. It's better to modularize the car. A bunch of laundry baskets to hold your food and gear and clothes, a couple of weatherized tubs that you can put outside. The tubs & laundry baskets sit on your bed during the day, then they stack up in the front seat at night, the tubs go outside on the roof or by the tailgate. That set up is for two people come and it will give you just enough room to sit out a storm comfortably. Almost comfortably at least. Now if you're traveling alone you can do a shelf build behind the driver's seat and leave about 60% of the back for sleeping. Don't bother with anything cute like a sink. Just storage and your solar batteries and controller if you have them. Just trust me on this: you want to sleep as low in the vehicle as you can while still having a flat surface you can stretch out on.

[@gracioussdreamer]

I can see tht raised platform being a hot issue. I changed out of a wet swimsuit and took a nap in the back seat of my Camry and DANG! the sun beat the top of my car and woke me up. Any suggestions other than parking under shade to deflect that?

[@joylawrence1251]

I liked that part too and I have a 2009 Borrego I a not using right now, but I will be :)

[@christinalucas5362]

I sleep in my car been in it for two years I met two police officers who have put so much of their time and effort to getting me into a tiny house I am so grateful for them I now have a place to sleep, shower, and have a restroom I am really thankful they gave me all the resources and help

[@roxannegordon6162]

Good for you Christina. Now you have a door with a lock. Very important for our stake of mind. You go girl. Forward !

[@sashbri9916]

God bless you and them

[@barbaracookauthor3683]

Oh my goodness, Laurie, you are my hero! A newbie looking at the possibility of hitting the road without buying a camper, you inspired me with all of your brilliant non-permanent ideas ,including the window shades and privacy curtain. Thank you.

[@laurienichols8059]

Oh you are gonna have so much fun!

[@theminister1154]

It's very inspiring, but read my quote under Trinity's post. You really really really do not want to build a raised platform in anything smaller than a full size van or maybe a big minivan. Even in a big minivan I wouldn't raise it more than 10 in. The raised platform is nice on cool nights with good weather, but when you run into a storm you need to sit out or a hot muggy night, you're really going to regret the platform. Better to modularize the car and sleep as low in the vehicle as possible.

[@SH-pm3dm]

I love that nothing is permanently "nailed down". This lady is so creative.

[@JustDiane71]

I'm with you!! Simple and doesn't do anything permanent to the car!!

[@myrnadavis2409]

Inr ? I love that too 🤗

[@darrinsiberia]

You nailed it man.

[@elioraimmanuel]

I agree. Hubby and I SUV camp occasionally in our 1 family vehicle. Right now I am looking for ways to be able to do this with our 2 youngest kids and 2 little grandchildren. Everything must be removable. We have looked at going the way of a pop up camper, too, but are really on the fence. I am thinking maybe a rooftop tent. I just want to be able to just GO!

[@donnabacon4681]

@@elioraimmanuel have you seen the "tents" that attach to the rear of an SUV or van? The back end of the vehicle is opened, the tent attached to various areas on the vehicle and some have an awning, too, with screened windows that you can close, so it adds an extra room.

[@cringirl]

I love the whole, "let's not overthink this" stratagy. I am really enjoying this channel. Thanks

[@SUVRVing]

Thanks, I'm glad you enjoy it!

[@taylortwostore]

Me too, I'm watching all the 'no build' builds because I feel they're actually usually far more practical and allow more flexibility of movement.

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

Now if I could just apply the “let’s not overthink this” strategy....it’s my best skill 😏

[@deucebollards]

When we overthink a thing we tend to not do any thing.

[@julianshepherd2038]

The simplicity makes this my favourite. Smart thinking

[@lisantica842]

I love how she can pretty much just take that whole set up into the next vehicle she gets if need be.

[@bevr2164]

Amen ❣

[@grayokieh5297]

Very nice set up. I think it's great that resourceful people, like you, are showing how to do this. I've told people for years, if you have a vehicle, and a place to park, you'll always have a place to sleep. Great video.

[@genericwatcher2439]

A place to park... that is becoming tricky. Getting "the knock" (someone asking, "what are you doing here") is horrible, especially when it is a police officer. Then at 3 am, you are groggy and have to figure out where to go. I have received "the knock" several times and the frequency is increasing. But yes, traveling in your car is super easy and cheap, as long as your eyes are opened to the downsides, it is a great way to travel. Other downsides: planning bathroom breaks, traveling to a town that has a planet fitness so you can bathe (accepting you will go days without bathing).

[@theminister1154]

You have a Jerry can for water right?@@genericwatcher2439 . If you're actually camping on BLM land or national Forest you can either leave it out in the sun or boil a couple of pots of water and pour them in, then take a shower. 5 gallons is plenty. Buy or improvise a hose and nozzle, put Jerry can on the roof and you're good to go. You can improvise a shower stall with tarp flopped over your open doors if there are people around. Planet fitness is still great in the city obviously.

[@Ralondat]

Great information thank you. I just ordered a black leather box like your grey one. I start may 15th. Hope to meet you on the road thank you💙💜

[@LegalLiz]

So glad I bumped into this video! You saved me! I'm getting too old to pitch a tent and crawl around on the ground but I don't want to drag anything around or pull anything when all I really want is a bed. And since I can barely hold a screwdriver correctly...this really opened up possibilities. I don't camp often - 2-3 times a year, so something like this is PERFECT and something I can actually do myself! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@theminister1154]

If you want to keep backpacking into your old age, you need a hammock. Even those nice air mattresses suck. I even use a hammock sometimes despite having a nice Honda Element to sleep in. On nights with good weather I pull the element up to a tree or a pole and rig the hammock from the side pillar to the pole. Hammocks are very comfortable once you get used to them.

[@evamaria644]

I hope you found your setup. There are hundreds of DIY camping setups to choose from, and hers is nice and simple.

[@pugluvnapril79]

I love her idea of using clamps for the putting up the curtain to block off the front. That’s genius! ❤️

[@mayaflynnster]

IKR! I do appreciate a lot of these interior builds...but I am not that brave. This idea IS genius!

[@AnnieGill7]

This micro camper is great! Nice build!

[@pjreads5014]

We have the same problem with our van - I'm going to copy this!

[@kerrymuller7389]

Love that idea as well. I just got a van and am tryng magnetic hooks- or maybe just magnets to keep my privacy curtain up.

[@WhstlblwrBlastingEpsteinsILK]

Same with the duct tape & Reflectix in the other windows.

[@kathleenmahoney6657]

Laurie's set-up is the neatest one I've ever seen. Fantastic ideas (her front curtain solution is brilliant!), easy to implement. Great video!

[@sweetyrhee9604]

One of the best presentations.

[@mehreenshaikh8794]

4

[@coryburns9161]

I tell you Laurie's hard not to like

[@badger1968]

@Repent or you will likewise perish. Or I will what and I mean what

[@juliasavory]

I agree with this. Brilliant video from a super inspirational woman. Bet she’s amazing at anything she does!

[@Kimberley_Black_White_TV]

Laurie is a very sweet lady. I am envious of her bravery and impressed with how efficient her setup is!!

[@UnblockedOne2]

Going this route is one of the best ways to get into traveling. We did similar with a van & simply stayed in a hotel every other night. I used frozen water bottles inside a large cooler for a refrigerator. In the hotel we would shower, refreeze more water bottles & take a break from the van.

[@helenwingeier]

I love how well she used her space and planned it all out right down to the battery for the blanket to stay warm and charge her phone. The bed looked comfortable and it would be something I possibly would try to do with my kids sense they want to try camping.

[@fliss362]

Great setup Laurie! I have an idea for a shower. You could use your rear door as the roof and mount for an en-suite. Just buy a shower tent from a camping store, attach the bag to the back door then just unzip the bag and let the shower curtains drop down, you can buy mini camping hot water pumping systems with little gas heater and draw water from a bottle and even better if you stand in a square tray can recycle the water you wash with. The shower tent can also be used as privacy screen for your little loo or just as a place to be able to stand up and get dressed in.

[@wayfarinstranger2444]

Yes! I advised the same, especially for toilet privacy! Take the toilet out for showers. Doesn't take up much space to travel with, either.😊

[@theminister1154]

I just flop a Jerry can up on the roof. Works pretty well. If there's no sun you boil a couple of pots of water to heat things up. If you have a four-door car you can usually park such that flopping a tarp over two open doors makes for a shower stall.

[@sturgislawler2611]

Laurie, You could make millions setting up for folks that may not be as agile, or organized. What a Superior Van you keep!

[@redarcher7526]

Do you have a KZbin channel

[@davidleigh443]

Millions are you insane?! Yes, she has a creative design, but lucky to make a few thousand helping folks do build-outs like hers. There are hundreds of build-out videos. Most people aren't going to pay to have someone do something simple.

[@lunabeta3516]

@@davidleigh443 You'd be surprised. I'm seriously considering my living situation. To have someone show you the ropes, share info face to face isn't the same as watching videos. Everyone learns differently.

[@tabook.b2248]

Soooo comfortable looking, can see why she is smiling, great set up indeed. no fuss, no frills and yet cosy.

[@elsbithrumble6683]

Perfect. She travels light & well organized. And, most importantly, she keeps the weight down.

[@lucylovitt9583]

So many people never give weight a thought... Manufacture spend time and money to keep their vehicles light - and some clown comes along and builds a mighty structure in the rear of their car🤦

[@cle-chi]

just beef up the Tires to accomadate the extra weight. Make them wider or whatever

[@crackerjack6075]

I think Laurie is a secret genius. I think she addressed so many of her needs and many of her wants and she's doing it with a great deal of practicality.

[@laurabolt5412]

From one princess to another, so glad to see an electric blanket included in your setup! Gadgets are great!

[@laurienichols8059]

Princesses rule!! 👑

[@kaykaykayak9368]

Great ideas thanks!

[@Kay-ml4ij]

They require so much power though...

[@pennylowe8713]

@@Kay-ml4ij She has a 500 watt Jackery and only runs the blanket 45 mins. An electric throw is 130 watts @ 45percent=85watts, divide 85 into 500 =5 nights (at only 45min.). Plus, she can solar recharge or recharge from her car battery so it's not really a problem for her. NICE to be warm too! Hot water bottles work also.

[@ch2821]

Glad I’m not the only one who needs her electric blanket 😂😂👍👍

[@rhondalyn100]

Great vid, Tristan. My favs are always the no build builds...especially the minivans. Appreciate all the ideas!

[@kellykrueger178]

Awesome video. Thanks for sharing her set up! I love that she did such a nice job of matching her needs WITHOUT making permanent alterations. Top marks!

[@juliamaxwellmarin]

I love her cheerful, positive attitude. Absolutely Lovely.

[@alextriesnewthings]

This is the first car camping video I ever watched. It helped me realize I could do it! I have since created a setup and gone on my first road trip! I have 3 more planned. Thank you both for sharing and creating this video.

[@shawniebeans8382]

This would have to be the most basic/simple car camping set up. She has a great eye for simplicity! Great job.

[@heidikitchen]

Satisfyingly organized

[@laurienichols8059]

My actual house, not so much, lol! 🤣

[@user-bw3fl7fj9w]

@@laurienichols8059 do you do this part-time?

[@plawton35]

She has a great personality! Her setup is clean, organized, aesthetically pleasing, and functional. Love it!

[@fredkipperman4485]

For sure

[@connectionoflivesandinterests]

@@laurienichols8059 *That's Hilarious.... 😄😄😄* Sharon in SC

[@kineticenergy9613]

The spray adhesive carpet for the bed frame, genius! She’s so creative L❤️VE it

[@truckerdaddy-akajohninqueb4793]

To build my sleeping platform in my Dodge Caravan, I used two milk crates in front turned on their sides. In back, I placed two milk crates simply upside down in back. On top of the 4 milk crates, I attached two 73 inch long steel L-bars. The floor is deeper in front in most minivans, so two milk crates placed on their sides in front help level out the bed from front to back. On top of L-bars, I placed a sheet of plywood that matches the width of my single mattress. Of course, milk crates also make great floor drawers. I can remove my bed in two minutes when I get home from camping. I don't have stow'n'go in back so I take out the back seats, but leave in the middle seats in the floor.

[@stephaniec1c389]

How did you attach the bars?

[@EBuff75]

I made a set of window blocks using a big roll of that reflective "bubble paper" insulation. Measure each window then cut it slightly oversize and start trimming until it's about 1/4" too big all the way around (that helps to keep tension so that it stays in place). Then I sprayed the outside of each one black and the inside a light tan. Makes it nice and bright inside and very unobtrusive from the outside. A couple of notches in the tops of the ones for the doors where I leave the window down a bit (I have vent shades which keep rain out) and some door nets to keep bugs from getting in through the gap. For the windshield I just use a run-of-the-mill sunshade, which probably blocks 95% of the window. Total cost was around $80, most of which was the bubble paper.

[@APar-yx1wl]

I like the clamp that hold the curtains..brilliant..I also have that toilet..thanks for sharing..happy trails..

[@ridelocalride]

Great video. I did the same thing in a 2014 Toyota RAV4 where I wanted it functionable but with no major or permanent modifications. I turned my vehicle into a mobile bedroom at night and during the day make it so I can take passengers and do deliveries to support my new lifestyle. I love the incognito style of sleeping that doesn't cost a thing.

[@laurienichols8059]

Awesome!!

[@SilentKnight43]

Years back we used a Kia Sedona minivan for camping - nothing nearly as elaborate inside as what you've put together - but it worked well. When we sold it and bought a Sorento I thought that'd be the end of using a vehicle for camping - but your video restores hope and possibilities. Lots of ingenuity and creativity here.

[@AlexisChateau]

This is the best SUV setup I've ever seen. It's so roomy. Kudos to her!

[@kelbearmama]

Could you get Laurie to show us how her bed was made? I’ve read quite a few people would really love to know what she used and how she made it. The 5 inch mattress looks absolutely so comfortable!! We are all just needing the platform for it. Love her set up!! One of my favorites!! ♥️♥️♥️

[@laurienichols8059]

Hi Kelly, I don’t make videos, but there are step by step photos on my Instagram if you look back through my history to March of 2018. :-)

[@kelbearmama]

@@laurienichols8059awesome thank you so much!! Already following you just hadn’t gone back far enough! Thanks so so much!!! 🌹🌹🌹

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

@@kelbearmama Hello how are you doing?

[@terryv]

Yes, I too was wondering about the key feature - the mattress. Unless you covered it and I missed it, I’d enjoy knowing the details about it.

[@pearlynng9248]

Laurie is so organised and tidy lady, everything about the whole setup are so practical, space saving stuffs and also to maximise the precious space she has. Love the bed the most, it looks so comfy and pretty too. Also love the solar panel and the cute retro look battery. Wish I'm as brave as her to travel alone, I'm too timid. Thank you for sharing your little mobile home

[@HealthyMBS1]

You can do it! Start small to get comfortable. She started with just a single overnight short trip. Then a couple nights. She has taken trips now of up to two weeks.

[@nancyvincent3251]

Thank you so much simplicity is what I needed today I have been feeling overwhelmed I’ve been trying to have enough courage to do this my Ford is 90 %ready! I’m not even sure where to go but I know I have to do this for me I am 67 years old! I wish more we talk about the budget monthly with their spending.

[@sodbustergrl.]

Nancy did you end up doing it?..I'm thinking about it too.

[@edgarrivera4623]

Awesome! Another alternative to the window covers, WeatherTech makes covers that fit all windows for most cars. I bought high quality sun shade/privacy covers for my RAV4 2015. Excellent quality but I paid $160, they’re reversible in the winter blacked out to absorb heat and reflective on one side for the summer. Covers every CM of the windows :)

[@kristinm4005]

Got the same ones. Expensive but definitely worth the money.

[@kittybearden1725]

Thanks for this, helped me a lot. One thing I will share with you is, instead of using a curtain blocking off your front seat from the back, I use my great sun/people peeper blocker in the front windshield. And then of course you can cut privacy patches for the front side windows like you did your other windows. For me, I want complete space AND privacy.

[@laurienichols8059]

Yes!! To be honest, I hardly ever use the curtain anymore. Sunshade in the window and tapestries rolled up in the front windows. Always a work in progress!!

[@TheGratitudeAttitude]

Amazing setup! Thanks for sharing it with everyone! If only a US car company would accessorize an SUV or van this way.

[@cwhipple5744]

What is the jackery? How does that get powered?

[@margio1152]

A Jackery is a brand name for, basically, a big battery. It can be charged by plugging it into a regular outlet or attaching it to a solar panel. It has plugs on it for your devices to attach to and charge ( USB ports, regular plugs, car charger type ports). We keep one in our house instead of a gasoline powered generator for the occasional blackout from a storm. It's easier, cleaner, lighter and more user friendly.

[@cwhipple5744]

@@margio1152 Thank you! Im definitely going to buy one

[@cwhipple5744]

@@margio1152 I bought one! Yaaa! Sadley it wouldn't run my hair dryer😢....but I still have hopes that it will run my electric blanket or my fan

[@bkfacs]

Has anyone used the one from Harbor Freight? It’s about 1/2 the price.

[@alexandrastevens8892]

Its not just about piling in a bed and loads of other stuff to make it possible to live in your car, its about making it a home, this lady has definitely cracked it. What a fabulous space and it looks totally comfortable, clean and tidy and no massive construction. One of the best conversions I've seen. Fabulous DIY living space but you didn't cover cooking 😉

[@signalfire6]

I could get by for MONTHS without cooking - just water, protein shakes for breakfast, canned soup/crackers for dinner and some snacking in between. The occasional 'real meal' eaten out as a treat. Part of the fun of travel is all the hole in the wall diners locally. I doubt van campers do much cooking, do they?

[@alexandrastevens8892]

@@signalfire6 hi I'm probably different and part of the fun of dragging my home behind me is being able to make yummy meals, I obviously am not a full timer but I love to get away from home and my caravan and my wood cabin are my favourite places to be, nothing tastes as good as food cooked on an open fire 🔥 thank you so much for your reply, much appreciated, take care and stay safe

[@AuRowe]

@@signalfire6 I know plenty of vanners that are crazy in the kitchen, and have friends with 30+ ft RV's that never cook but have a microwave 4 burner stove and a full sized oven! Different tokes for different folks

[@thechrah5718]

This interior is so *COZY* and finally, someone that made their bed so it isn't up by the windows! (How do people deal with sleeping level with windows?) This set up is almost exactly all my goals, right down to the little ottoman/bench thing and painting the frame and lining it with the carpet. It's kind of amazing to see all the ideas I've had spiraling around my head actually real and in front of me to prove it will look good. Thanks for this video! SUPER helpful!

[@queenofthejunglegel]

I love how she organized her "home".

[@kevinthompson4450]

This is an awesome setup. I’ve been toying with the idea of a camper van/bus conversion. Now I’m looking at my Durango a little differently. Great job putting this together!

[@theminister1154]

I strongly recommend not building a platform in that vehicle. You want as much headspace as possible in case you have to ride out a storm. Being coffinized all day is no good, plus the more head space you have for sleeping the better the air flow. Instead you just use laundry baskets and weatherproof tubs to store stuff during the day on your bed, then put them in the front seats or outside at night. This is someone with 500 nights plus experience speaking

[@OrangeTabbyCat]

Most important thing in my mini camper is my bivvy loo. Ao many times when I didn’t feel comfortable to go outside at night, either because it was really cold, drunk teens in a parking lot, pouring rain in a campground. I love that thing.

[@kalansadlier9631]

Great set up great idea! I am literally watching this as I’m sitting in the back of my 07 GL 450 at Kekaha Kai beach park. HI Inspiring! Was going to build a platform later this afternoon. Thanks for the tips safe travels. Oh, a tip for mosquito netting. Grab basic screen from any hardware store, fold it in half to go over the inside and the outside of the door just use basic gorilla tape when you shut the door that locks tight. Keeps the bugs out, nice breeze. And completely temporary and removable. Aloha 🌺

[@Galen-864]

Howzit? Left the BI three years ago due to lack of housing.

[@dianebassett1930]

Not sure I understand what you mean - we need a video of this, please!

[@wownewstome6123]

The screen sounds interesting, but how do you install it? What style door do you place it on? Then, can you open and close your door & put the window up and down without disturbing it, and just remove it before driving?

[@plusbonus1165]

@@wownewstome6123 yes.

[@eileensimpson3725]

Fantastic set up. Neatness is so important in a small space and you have done a really great job on that. Thanks for sharing with us.

[@peggy011]

I really like her set up. As I research a new (to me) vehicle for travel/camping trips, it's beneficial to see a variety of layouts and ideas. Thank you, Tristan, for showcasing people's different solutions.

[@SilverSunPublishing]

I really like this setup. SUVs are great because they are usually 4WD and drive well in all weather, including snow. I had a mini van once, and it was terrible in the snow and ice.

[@laurienichols8059]

Sadly I only have 2 wheel drive on mine, but I do enjoy the clearance on it. Sand seems to be my vehicles weakness. When this one eventually goes to the graveyard, my next vehicle will absolutely be 4WD.

[@Delilaah57]

You forgot the best part about your long storage/bench ottoman! You can reverse the top, so that you can have a wooden tray. I do with mine and I love this storage/seat/bench/foot rest/small table. Very useful!

[@ajgil8260]

I know I'm one of many, but compliments to that clamp idea - brilliant! The window treatments were very creative. Organized, meticulous. Great job.

[@texasoutlook60]

So simple but effective and well thought out! What I liked most was the electric blanket set up because I have neuropathy in my legs that benefits from heat!! Thank you Laurie for showing me how this might work for me! Blessings ~Sidney Anne

[@bdmenne]

What I would like to know is. Can the jackery power fan and blanket and for how long. Love fans!

[@patty1578]

I have neuropathy 2 & it was nice to see that was 45 minutes on & then shut off just incase....

[@barbarabuford5795]

I love how Everything is So neat, convenient, uncluttered, Beautiful color scheme, grey with multicolored blanket! Convenient having the generator & electric blanket!

[@tnstef2629]

Love that she did this without any permanent modifications.

[@starsackaney4996]

She's funny! "I'm kind of a princess" Re: her electric blanket AND yet she solo camps in her vehicle. She's creative and the coolest chick. I wouldn't be surprised that we see her a few years later in a van AND a huge following! Cheers!

[@laurienichols8059]

Ha ha, thanks! I'm such an introvert, that's why I love going remote solo! No people, lol. I'd love the van, but i'll pass on the fame, ha ha!

[@jackneuman1282]

Suggest using playing crds tucked into window frame to hold view blockers

[@laurienichols8059]

Oh that’s perfect!!! I like that idea!

[@thegrudge6495]

Yeah because they don't make velcro that adheres to things nowadays give me a break

[@jackneuman1282]

@@thegrudge6495 velcro is not always dependable to adhere but, that's why they have horse races. Everyone likes a different horse.

[@thegrudge6495]

@@jackneuman1282 what you're doing is making up excuses if you do a little bit of prep work and you add a little extra adhesive they will stick to anything perfectly trust me I know you have to be smarter than what you're working with boy

[@jennwilson8106]

@the grudge not necessarily true...i have a trailer and on my skylight window i have a black out curtain that has Velcro all the way around it. On hot days that adhesive melts therefore the velcro come off the surface. I have used several different types of extra adhesives to the strips as well as "heavy duty velcro". Even crazy glue didnt work. All that did was damage the velcro strip

[@stephaniemurphy8802]

Love the simplicity and thoroughness of your set-up!

[@tinabeane]

LAURIE!!!!!! So cool to see your setup!!! Love your bed and the fairy lights. Those clamps for the front window covers, well done!! 😊❤😘👏

[@susane5153]

So do-able. Really love that it can all go back to "standard car" configuration. Thoughtful use of materials, also.

[@charlielanguellholt3877]

Hello how are you doing 👋👋👋😀☺️

[@kimberleesouthern8775]

Awesome, affordable, simple conversion that retains the value of the vehicle if and when it Is time to sell! Thank you for sharing.

[@natewrites7803]

Love how the colors, rug, bins are all attractive. Cozy, neat and attractive are important.

[@KingsMom831]

I love how tidy she keeps it! Easier to move around and find everything. A place for everything and everything in its place😁

[@joek511]

Nice, real nice. Been wanting to do something like that for a long time. Tired of sitting home alone, but not willing to pay for rooms. My Saturn SUV might very well get a makover

[@cardinalgirl2]

There are some great FB groups for car camping- some especially for single women.

[@pumaoutdoors]

Do it it will be fun

[@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123]

I bought a 16’ Scamp so I don’t have to pay for rooms.....I have yet to go anywhere because I keep loaning it out 😘....can’t wait for spring !!!

[@helensbalbi8497]

@@rnupnorthbrrrsm6123I am not familiar with that camper. I am considering camping or traveling to some places on my bucket list. I have a Honda CRV. I AM TALL FOR getting in and out of it as a camping vehicle. Just starting to consider all this.

[@msol3270]

I love that she keeps everything so clean and organized.

[@lesliehipp9651]

Great setup Laurie! Love the simplicity of your choices, and your joy-filled vibe. Happy travels to you!

[@KingsMom831]

She did really great utilizing every little nook & cranny😁

[@johnettew3957]

Thank you Tristan and Laurie for sharing this build. It's a great "no build" set up. I have a customized van that I use sometimes for passengers and other times for camping for which I implement a "no build". Our resources are protected as well as utilized. Thanks again.

[@TangoDelta70]

Awesome video and setup! It's so refreshing to see people living simply and fully! Thanks!

[@pohyokelo]

This is one of the best videos because there is no permanent changes. Excellent!

[@charlenelaguer7072]

I really love her setup. She seems to be very practical in her approach to van living. Love her smile and upbeat mannerism!!!

[@dawna4185]

wow....this is my favorite set up of all the vid's i've watch thus far!! brilliant ideas! easy, cheap, simple and very effective...thanks for the inspiration and thanks for sharing your ideas, Laurie!!

[@Katiedid1975]

Laurie die a fantastic job. Simplicity is what this lifestyle should be all about while still bringing along some comforts from home.

[@Kiwiwanderer]

She’s incredibly likeable ....capable and practical.

[@jeanwanchen1]

Love that huge smile! So bright! It’s like somebody can’t be sad when they see that big a smile

[@nicolekelsheimer3806]

This is a very impressive use of space - without permanent change. I love it!!

[@PopleBackyardFarm]

yes sometimes it is just easier to do this to see if you even like RV living

[@SUVRVing]

Don't forget to follow Laurie on Instagram (@thebearcan): instagram.com/thebearcan/ (Also, please stop asking how Laurie cooks! She chooses not to cook on trips. She uses her SUV as a camper and doesn't live in it full-time.)

[@bettywith2girls]

She could get one of those portable camping stoves if she ever felt like cooking, anyway. No big deal. Love her arrangement.

[@rosemarymcaleer2310]

Is this also why we don’t see how she showers? I know people don’t always shower when camping a few days but I would be using it for some weekend trips that would require I bathe. 😞

[@jonanna8516]

Lori, your setup as amazing. I love the heated blanket and how organised your whole setup is. Congratulations and I hope you get to have many exciting adventures.

[@iluvzebras10]

I absolutely love the efficiency of this build, its super cute as well!

[@elisafrye2115]

😍This is the MOST IMPRESSIVE SUV Transformation I have EVER seen! 🏆👍😅 it’s a simple, but amazingly creative and practical combination of self-build and “ technology.” Stripped down but comfortable with everything a road warrior needs for happy camping!

[@allalone1461]

I would like to see the bed foundation and how that was made, I liked that idea.

[@mariacarter3797]

Me too

[@faemoonfire694]

Me three!

[@albasladogna250]

@@mariacarter3797 0P00

[@patriciabutler8953]

Me 4

[@zuziakras1632]

Of course! Foundation is the most important!! And how to build this without any devastations or scratching of an interior!!!

[@Teri728]

So nice of her to show the details. That always makes it interesting and informative!

[@bonniepwtf]

She did a great job with her space. The bed looked very comfy.

[@mbd6054]

The comfiest looking bed I've seen in a camper. Really well done.

[@bonniepwtf]

@@mbd6054 👍

[@MsBerries25]

She's so clean and organized. Love it

[@artiejane359]

So Comfy Your Energy Shows A Happy Camper

[@signalfire6]

Great build! I love that you've linked to all the accessories. Never heard of that power unit before, there are several sizes available which is helpful. We have a full time house but are retired and want to travel - this gives us an idea of what you can do with a car. Hotels are too expensive!

[@SarahGreen523]

You can't go wrong with a Jackery battery. I have the 250, but I only use it for cell phone and a small heating pad that I use for cold nights atm. I recommend it.

[@uncletony3674]

I’ve got a few few more years till all my kids are grown up, then I’m off to my traveling adventures.

[@doracampos2088]

I might do the same. 🙌😊

[@pumaoutdoors]

I'm starting this year Im setting up my van now

[@BetteTwain]

I’m gonna do the same when my step kids are older

[@dianepang808]

I’m thinking the same thing 👍🏼

[@uncletony3674]

@Rachel H little mini adventures are ways good.

[@ChrisAndEmilie]

Looks great! Always interesting to see how different people cover their windows.

[@xstanadu]

WOW !! Laurie is amazing and so great with having everything so strategically placed !! Incredible !! You should hold a class and show people who would like to try this type of lifestyle just how to do it ! Seriously !! I love how you have everything placed so perfectly w/ no clutter !! Thank you for sharing and showing your expert ways to have everything so perfectly together !! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ This is very helpful to myself and I’m sure to so many others !!

[@laurienichols8059]

Glad you found it helpful!! Thank you.

[@cmcdonald5319]

Just want to say this lady has so many creative ways to make this happen and be affordable. Very smart and inspirational. Good job 👏

[@LaidBackPedalPusher]

That's inspiring. Smart bed! And clever use of hooks and tools, too. Stealth beauty.

[@jennifercampbell7698]

Great simple ideas! I’d add a fold up table and a chair, a stove and cooking gear and probably a powered car fridge for cooking. It would affect storage however. Although if you plan to eat out or use a camp kitchen you’d get by with this setup.

[@UrbanCynic101]

I really like the block outs for the rear windows with the black tape to cover the gaps. I just did mine and now I need to go back and copy Laurie's idea and improve them. Great setup.

[@thexxit]

Very cozy! And I like that if required she can turn it back into a fuctional SUV.

[@nanakarrots4325]

I’m impressed👏😍 This is one of the most efficient Van setup without built in permanently for living in a van. She’s enjoying life to the fullest as a minimalist.

[@Hard_Car_Life]

She was delightful! I learned quite a bit from her (and you sir) for when I do try this car camping stuff.. I own a 2018 Ford Fiesta hatchback but the back seats don't lay completely down. They only go down on a 45 degree angle, which means I'll have to figure out how to take them out. Or, I could just trade this in for a bigger SUV. Thanks again.

[@lindahopson5003]

I love the clamps on the front to hold the privacy curtain. I might have to try that in my van.

[@MikeR55]

Looks great. I've done very similar with my Honda Pilot including removing the two rows of rear seats and adding a single plywood platform with nothing permanent. Perfect for solo adventures into the backcountry.

[@suncitybooksgeraldton335]

You can pop the covers on the grab handles and the screws are underneath and put a bit of aluminum strip underneath with small holes for under the grab handle and a large hole for the spring loaded curtain rod and get rid of the clamps and even wrap it in grey material to blend in and twist it to sit flat on the sides.

[@laurienichols8059]

I've seen some set up this way!!! I may upgrade soon!! Always a work in progress!

[@tennsusan]

Love It! I have a Toyota FJ cruiser and figured I could never afford a van but I could do this quiet easily.Im so ready to just go.I have always had a wondering soul.Thank You.