THE REAL COST OF VEHICLE CAMPING

This is how much vehicle camping is cost us and here are ways to help reduce the unnecessary stuff.
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[@thenameiwantedwastaken]

If you think this is bad, don't do the math on Boat ownership...

[@gopackgo69]

Yeah the math don't work

[@TheLukaszpg]

​@@gopackgo69it works. You just scared of it

[@willrouse2351]

😂😂

[@silknfeathers]

@@gopackgo69 The maths works, it's just that, if you do the maths, you have to factor in the heart attack costs, or the psyche therapy, or both! Don't do the maths!

[@davidkelly3779]

The only people that think boats are expensive, are those that have never owned an aircraft.

[@hutrv]

Love how you've evolved over the years to become a true voice of reason in an industry seemingly promoting needless wants and consumption to the detriment of real outdoor experiences. “He who is not contented with what he has, would not be contented with what he would like to have.” ― Socrates

[@robyoung1890]

True words!!!

[@Whoosh0001]

So it is.

[@TRAILLAD]

Fully agree, keep it basic

[@dixonbuttes6564]

This is the most important 4x4 / overlanding video on the internet! Very well done, Ronny!

[@joerobson9442]

Hi Ronny, 20K spent/10 times a year equals to 2k a day. Very true but after the first year all the 20K mods been paid off. Any camping after that is “free”. Keep the car for 10 years then the expenses become $200/day. Still crazy!

[@garycharters7168]

Agree, there may be some depreciation and future replacement cost for a fridge or winch for example but not for a bullbar, rock sliders or roof rack

[@odb_roc_hound4186]

@@garycharters7168, maybe not in Australia, but here in NE US if you drive the vehicle in winter all those parts have a 5-10 year life before rust eats them. It makes even kitting out a vehicle hard to justify on a cost basis as vehicle turnover is much faster than a dry arid region.

[@Xayvr]

I was here to call out the ridiculous 4th grade math mistake. He could have made a decent point if he had been genuine. P.s. it's a dumb comparison that means nothing. Mods are not directly related to CAMPING. What about a day trip on the trail? What about a road trip using the fridge? It's just not a reasonable use of stats.

[@joerobson9442]

@@Xayvr I think he genuinely made a mistake

[@Xayvr]

@@joerobson9442 I don't doubt it was an honest mistake. Just surprised by it. I'm still subscribed.

[@glenwillson5073]

Slightly bigger AT tyres, a simple canopy on the tub, and a battery to run the fridge are the only actual vehicle mods I've done. And it's a 2006 vehicle in good condition. The rest is just the basic camping gear you need. I think I've nailed it!

[@carlholman2993]

Agreed!

[@kadmow]

- yes a ground tent, while it may be a little of a PITA to: set up, load, pack, store... etc etc, has a benefit of being flexible (location, furnishing), ability to easily "basecamp", never vehicle specific, and isn't an obvious airbrake for all the non camping miles one does. Simple cooking gear - including vintage companion cookers x2. I have been flooded several times in my camping / swagging "youth" - back when a swag was really a swag, not a tubbed tent - nowdays, I like a stretcher - off the ground (with or without a self inflating mat - or even a comfy selfinflating queen astride 2... (Thimking, "tent swag" - see getting converted at "middle age" - in the inventory for serial nomadic overnighters with little desire to "set up camp".) - I have a couple of side awnings - never bought one, just scored around the traps. Adding to the "stuff in the shed" $500 at a time is a lot easier for non "4x4 specific" - camping kit.

[@glenwillson5073]

@@kadmow I'm a lazy camper. No overnight camp setups for me. I won't put a tent up for less two nights stay, absolute minimum. If I was doing a long overland 4WD trip, requiring one night stops, I would want be able to sleep in the vehicle. Probably why rooftop tents seem to be popular. And a vehicle attached awning would definately be the go.

[@JimmyDevere]

Don't need a fridge. Pre-cook or just throw the frozen steak and some beer in the cooler (or two).

[@intimatespearfisher]

Best bang for buck set up.

[@JamesSymmonds]

So many spot on questions. Very well thought out line of thinking. I live in a part of the US where a lot of people think they need some awesome 4x4 but to put anything decently built out to the test, they'd have to drive 6-10 hours on a highway. For me, it's 10 hours at US interstate speeds to get to front range Colorado and 14 to Moab. I've done some basic stuff in that range in a Honda Element. I've since gone to a Subaru Forester that I plan to give some better tires, plates, and minor lift. No, it won't be a western trail basher but it'll do fine enough to get me out to places I would need more. At which point, my gas savings might be enough to rent a jeep for a day or two. With my experience with other cars, I can do a decent amount with a Subaru. (Read reviews of trails and know what you know. If the trail review says they've never seen certain vehicles beyond a certain point, take heed. If it's really mixed, look at conditions, vehicles, and see if you can discern experience and then -1 the result to keep yourself humble and safe. Really, -1 the result should always be part of an equation.) Also, consider how much is "I'm doing this for experience of just driving something because it's nuts" vs "I'm driving this just to see something." Just to see something isn't necessarily as crazy.

[@Globetrotter-1]

It seems like so many people literally have money to burn! 😂 I spend all year living and exploring in my 4WD. Zero extra mods on the vehicle. I spend on average less than $3 (£2) per day on a yearly basis.

[@downundertruth3589]

Thank you Ronny for your videos. As a result, this 58 yr old newbie will adopt the minimalist view to camping.

[@Tom-lf8hx]

Minimalist but also comfortable aswell ahah

[@royblackburn1163]

Concentrate on a cosy comfortable bed, a good night's sleep is paramount.

[@overland_adventure_nz]

Great video, I’m definitely one of the odd ones out camping with my 4x4’s! 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002 I averaged 48 weekends away camping inside my then custom built Suzuki Jimny (yes inside with a custom built bed system) 384 nights before I was burned out Whitewater kayaking, almost every weekend away averaging 50,000 km per year. Now I’m building a new Suzuki Jimny with a custom bed/storage system and planning to camp out again one week per month for years to come.

[@78Bonne]

I think that's probably your best work yet, Ronnie. Every aspiring tourer should watch it. Couldn't agree more about the excessive 'gadgets' that many are finding essential these days. The flashest thing I have on board is an electric toothbrush and a jet boil 😁

[@marcusfenske421]

Great to see an influencer who is asking the right questions and giving the right advice…….we all want crap but what do you really need to get out and enjoy the great outdoors? Big difference between those living out of their vehicles or making a living from them by living out of them to what the average weekend-warrior really needs. 👌

[@ben501st]

Some wagons have rear seats that fold into a bed. No tent, no canopy, no modifications, no extra money. Add an inflatable mattress if you want extra comfort. If you want you could replace a caravan with an off-road utility trailer that is cheaper and useful for more than camping.

[@user-in2zv9jr8n]

Ya. Agreed. Not sure what people are blowing 20 g on lol

[@robkeith1776]

Ron, after 50 years of outback travel I am still refining my requirements. It is very easy to over spend. A little experience goes along way.

[@robs.5847]

It's important to look at these things objectively/pragmatically, so that cooler heads can prevail when deciding how much money to put into a build. So I appreciate the video, but there is one thing I'd also factor in: If most people keep their vehicle for 5 years, then the amortization should take that into account. A $20k build isn't worked out over a single year unless someone is doing a new build each year. Five years at 10 trips per year with a $20k build equals 50 trips at $400 per trip. At 20 days per year for five years, it's $200 per trip. The advice that emerges is sound though, including not to overspend, and if you've got it, use it.

[@ChavsADV]

Coming from motorcycle camping this is exactly why I keep it super simple when camping from our truck. Our truck is dual purpose for home. Stuff and camping, cooler serves multi purposes, propane grill serves dual purpose, recovery gear IMO is cheap insurance. Keep it simple

[@lylemacdonald6672]

Hello from Canada!🇨🇦 I answered your survey but my pickup is used for far more than camping. Living where there is snow and often unplowed bumpy roads five months a year works better with a 4x4 with good tires and suspension. Towing one's toys works better with a kitted out truck as well.

[@cmoreoverland6739]

In many respects you are spot on! It's a rabbit hole. I went to Overland Expo in AZ (You were the motivator -If Ronnie can come from Australia, I can come from SF-We had a good chat) and was stunned by the number of ways one can throw away $10 - $2mm. The best advice I heard was use your vehicle first to see what you need and let that guide your mods. I chuckle because I have still spent a lot( but under 20k) and have used it extensively. Enough that my lovely wife concedes "well at least he uses it". Arctic, South West and Baja thus far. The big trip is San Francisco to Argentina in '25. Why? Because. But also, I have a truck that will get me there, back and to Australia with no adds just good maintenance. By the way, Australia is a goal I recently added and my wife's biggest concern was the 6 grand shipping cost. Given I will have been on the road already for a year and this is her biggest concern perhaps I should not have been transparent with receipts😁

[@reludennis]

Would it be cheaper to rent a 4x4 for a month in Australia than ship yours?

[@roscored1000]

this is actually a very good video to help put things into perspective. I have a 2004 subaru forester, 15 years with no issues, and we only go camping for a few days each year in good weather. Found a great kings awning free and fixed it up, second hand 40 ch uhf , used waeco fridge and companion lithium power station total cost $600, propane cooker, Aldi tent. Was thinking about a newer 4WD with all the bits but realistically we wont go away anymore times so it suddenly becomes very expensive per trip. I heard a quote on another youtube channel about this very concept and the quote was " the best vehicle for camping is in your driveway now, use it" thank you

[@damienfurlong7744]

Very inspiring video , learnt heaps . I don’t need a 35s 4inch 150k cruiser,just a older 4wd 1-3grand set up to have fun in bush

[@JimmyDevere]

My advice: use a stock 4x4 with one to two size up tires. Use light weight, compact ultra-light backpacking gear that will last and is adaptable for many uses. Learn to pitch a tarp for shade and rain. Your taste in 4x4s, destination and types of adventures will change with time.

[@den_shergin]

* Travelling solo on sketchy trails - installed winch + protection plates * Spending nights in the areas too dangerous for camping in a tent - installed a bed inside the car * Too much stuff to store - installed roof platform + roof box * Tired of bogging on AT tyres - switched to MT * Annoyed by glazing sun - got an awning * Remote routes with days of walking to people - installed backup battery Still unsure about the fridge I built my first rig wrong, but that helped to build the second one much better (rolling for 5 years already and targeting for 5 more). Get on the trail more often with what you already have on hands - and make adjustments only where needed. Let's admit it: some people just like to BUILD their rigs, not ride/camp. If they are fine about the bill - well, it's up to them.

[@toxic1698]

I would like to know where the heck you're going that is too dangerous for tent camping. Just for reference, I routinely hike into Bear Country with a tarp, a wool blanket, and nothing other than a big knife for protection.

[@den_shergin]

@@toxic1698 unfortunately human beings are more dangerous in some places for a lonely traveler. There is also excessive amount of bears in our region (Siberia).

[@NICUofficial]

@@den_shergin that's badass

[@abstragic4216]

Good commonsense advice as usual Ronny. Well, my conscience is clear. I intend to spend about $15K on mods, and may not camp ANY days per year. Reason being that I live about 5 mins from the nearest Vic high country track, so it'll be day trips and home comforts each night. If I do get caught out somewhere it'll have to be "proper" camping with just the bare essentials.

[@ginoaluzijr9522]

Excellent video. Well said, well explained and with a lot of personal experience, from many different viewpoints. Now...hopefully many people will listen.

[@Langhorstiness]

Couldn't agree more. Back in the 1990s, I worked in remote areas in western and northern Canada and based my entire truck camping system on backpacking gear. Why, because the lighter and smaller everything is, the less offroading issues I will bring upon myself. There are some new things that I have embraced, like traction boards, but the underlying philosophy is the same: travel light and keep the centre of gravity low. My 4-person backpacking tent is

[@AK-hk2pd]

I prefer to live in cost denial, " I WANT...I NEED...I MUST HAVE" 🤣🤣🤣

[@stevesmith3556]

You were so dead pan when talking about modular design and Kid's when you flashed "pull out" in bright yellow😂😅😂

[@StillOnTheRun]

Car Mods: Bulbar, LED spotlights with yellow covers, Lift, Good tires, Roof rack, Awning, 12v and Anderson plugs in the boot/cargo area, Good UHF and Antenna, Small tool bag specific to your car. These are mods that will work for 99% of people and can be left on/in the car at all times. The less you have hanging off or in your car, the more economical it will be on the daily basis. (Some might not even need the lift depending on the vehicle!) Optional extras: 12v compressor, Maxtracks, Tow Strap, Portable jump starter, Spare parts (hoses, fuel, etc) - Depending on the camping trip these might be mandatory, however don't need to be kept in your 4x4 at all times increasing daily efficiency. Camping supplies: Folding chair, Swag, Gas stove, Pot, Plates, cups, utensils, LED torch, LED headlamp, Folding table optional but recommended. Tarp/mat to put under swag is a good optional extra too. All this has Worked 99% of the time for me with camping. Food and perishables can easily be canned, pasta is always an easy meal! canned vegetables and fruits are easy to keep! Long-life milk is a godsend! Reducing your reliance on a fridge will save you money using dual batteries, solar, etc. Most of the camping supplies can be kept in labeled large storage boxes, organized and easily put into the back of your 4x4 when on a camping trip that can be taken out at each camp site and used as a table at times! Nearly everything (besides dedicated 4x4 mods like lift kits, tires, some roof racks) can be relatively easily swapped between and 4x4 significantly reducing costs when upgrading your 4x4!

[@fourrotorpilot9825]

Yellow covers on your spotties is a game changer for dry dirt tracks! Always somehow end up driving to the next site at night.

[@jwc3104]

Very good points. important thing is you watch your budget and make sure the 4x4 isn't going to drag you down to financial abyss. Get something cheap, do lots of DIYs, Don't go crazy making your rig 100% on everything... just be happy at ~70%. Enjoy the time out traveling.

[@sebastianmuswere2700]

Hi Ronny my thoughts are that intended use is not universal...lots of people now get 4WD's not because they need to haul stuff for work or they envisage touring around-the-clock, but rather they like the car, and the ability to use it for whatever intent when the opportunity arises. Having said that modding a car can be done for fun simple as that, it may not make sense for the next person but the person doing it has the absolute satisfaction of doing it.

[@TheLukaszpg]

... and all they do is school runs

[@mastersKaaP]

You bring up a few good points. This video just cemented my belief that spending money on my rig is a better deal than spending that money on overseas holidays. I probably go camping around 20-30 days a year, but would love to increase that number in the future if I can make a few arrangements with work responsibilities. I spent around $20k (excluding the cost of the stock vehicle itself) on my vehicle so far (almost 3 years of ownership), but only about $5k of that is on actual camping gear, rest is on stuff to improve off-road capability, safety or security. I do this primarily to go on adventures, camping is just how you spend the night during the adventure. If I didn't do the mods the places I would've been able to go wouldn't have been so memorable or interesting. I know this because we went camping with a car/van a lot while I was growing up and I hated every moment of it, but since I got my own 4x4 and started off-roading and going to the off grid camp sites I found a new love for the hobby. I enjoy both the adrenaline aspect of driving a tough trial and the being closer to nature and away from civilization and crowds part of the adventure. This doesn't mean that I don't want to be comfortable at the end of the day. Imo having a shitty bed, shitty food and spending all your time either setting up or taking down the camp makes the entire experience less enjoyable and thus makes you want to not go on the adventure in the first place, which means spending fewer days a year camping. With my current setup I couldn't even imagine living on the road (apart from the real life reasons), but if I would spend another $50k on the rig then I could build something I would absolutely be able to live out of for weeks or months at a time. It is true, this lifestyle and culture is a money pit and no matter how much you spend, there will always be something you still need to buy or upgrade, but I find my happiness in the process of building, testing and then optimizing my setup and not in hoping to one day have it all. And I love seeing what other people has done with their vehicles or having people show off their setups to me, since this is the best opportunity to steal good ideas or to find out how some things I was considering pans out with other people who already has it implemented.

[@MoleMedia]

This video is what the community needs to hear, great work mate!

[@SarahandKeelanTravels]

great video, I feel guilty haha! We would hate to think what we have spent however it is our house. Being full time on the road with no end date we like to be comfortable, similar to the way we felt before we moved out of an actual house. Yes it's possible to be full time on the road with a corolla and a swag but we find it far more enjoyable having the coffee machine, having the 600 ah of lithium to run the aircon ect ect and living like we did in an actual house.. do you NEED it? absolutely NOT, so I guess it all comes down to preference and working out if you want to spend $1000 or $350,000 on a setup. neither way is wrong, right, good, bad or perfect. The grass is always greener I have found also and everyone is chasing the slippery, slick Miragé of the perfect setup for them!

[@pabichpawel]

I use the approach you described on regular basis but often end up with different answers :). In my case I decided against an awning. I bought Cool Cabana. Less weight, can set it up at any side of the car in under 2 minutes.

[@frankzagari5875]

Or the pop up gazebo

[@PeteFromOZ]

Brilliant! 😄

[@markhowells13]

@@frankzagari5875 They are a pain in the ass in my dual cab solo camping. The canopy isnt long wnough to slide them so you have to get them up and down off the roof every night. And on a rough track you are busy waiting for them to fall off

[@paulfleming7246]

Nice work yet again Ronnie - there’s no shortage of kit to burn holes in one’s pocket. My take on awnings is yes convenient but fragile - with a roof rack, tarp and a bit of creativity one can come up with a great variety of combinations to suit

[@oldbloke204]

I've got a pretty expensive 270 deg. awning in the shed as the last couple of times we went camping we took one of those folding gazebo things which worked great. Too much weight up high, fiddly for one person to put up and I just never used the awning. It will be going on marketplace as soon as I can be bothered making the effort. A smaller one might be better for what I do but it was basically money wasted. Oh well life goes on.

[@br.markanthony574]

Best video of yours to date, 👍🚙👌❤️🇨🇮☘️

[@EightyFiveHundred]

20 years of owning and reconfiguring our supercharged FZJ80. I think we’ve gone through 4 different suspension configurations, 2 different drawer systems, removed seats for a platform, added back a seat and half a platform when we had a kid…everything we’ve had was/is modular, from our racks, lights, etc... Added a 100 Series, removed a 100 Series 😂, and kept the 80!

[@philipwilson3454]

$2,500 car here with about $800 spent on a second battery, solar panel and fridge. Works for me.

[@Whoosh0001]

Finally. Sound advice about return on investment, so to speak. There's really too much hyping up few inch lift kits and 12V financial suicide kits and what not. The other day, a guy at the workshop replied to my exclaim 'man, those spare wheel carriers are ridiculously expensive' with 'but they will prevent your door hinges from going bad' - and then I made him consider the number of door hinges one could buy for the price of just one carrier. And no: most of those heavily upgraded 4x4's never ever get their doors muddy in the first place. They would not dare, given the amount of money they've put into the things. Most people really would do better giving their city cars a lift and some decent tires (if at all) instead of playing Rock Monster over the holidays. So Ronny: I really appreciate you embarking on this line of thinking, this explicitly. Oh, and one more thing. Every time I went up into the mountains, in difficult terrain, be it in Italy, Spain, Albania, Romania, Turkey - always, there would be some elderly farmers or jolly quarry workers who would come bumping up or down this terrifyingly difficult mountain trail in a rickety Fiat Panda or dented minivan giving my nice 4x4 a thumbs-up - and in doing so putting it to shame. And yes: I now own a Troopy (a HZJ78 with no turbo, and not gonna buy one thank you very much). Before that I drove an Iveco Massif, a powerful capable beast. But my best memories were collected in a Citroen BX, up in the desert in central Spain. You know what? With its hydro-pneumatic suspension it had its lift kit built in right from the factory. You'd just pull a lever. (writing from the Netherlands)

[@ChrisAnderson1971]

Just watched this and the “all the gear and no idea” video, some great information and a realisation that I’ve made a lot of bad choices.. namely selling my GU that I’d just changed all the suspension under it, and I mean everything, now I have a Ranger but dreaming of a 200/Y62 +caravan…. 😢 I’m a bit of a “keeping up with the Jones’s “ kinda guy… should’ve just kept the GU and got out there camping and travelling instead of wasting time and money building the ultimate “game changer” Love your work Ronnie, it’s exactly what I needed to hear

[@thinpins1]

It’s the $40-50k canopy that I really struggle to justify. Use case is so specific and life changes so much faster than any payback period.

[@camgosling2817]

Just to add something else. Most ute owners that 4wd are most likely tradies. So some of those mods help with both camping and trade needs. i.e 2000w inverter for charging tool batteries and other tools.

[@stevenlippis5488]

I figured about 5k would be enough to set us up for everything we want/need. Most of the gear isn't permanently attached to the car so can go into the next one, whenever that is. I do want a solar/12v setup to keep the fridge going and be able to charge phones/camera batteries. That will probably end up being the most expensive part of our setup.

[@007Knightjp]

Great advice here.. actually makes me think of whether spending that much on mods and gear is worth it if I would not be using it as much as I should. So right now, its encouraging me to get out more and use the gear I already have and keep it as budget as possible.

[@Jez3134]

I have an MR Triton and a HJ61. The Tritons been on 15 camp trips this year, driven me across a heap of NSW I've never seen before. I bought the 60 to do harder stuff, it has every mod you can think of but 90% of the time it's just a headache and I never use it. Pretty much had to replace every single thing on it because of age. The Triton has a lift, snorkel and muddies, that's it, and it does everything. I've tried to be minimalist with my gear, good quality sleeping bag, canvas turbo tent, evakool fridge, oztent chair, led light kit and a lithium battery box with dcdc charger instead of fitting out 2 vehicles with 12v systems. Only roughly 5-6 items and a stockish vehicle and you get to almost anywhere. Spend money on quality stuff you need and you'll still have a good time even in the worst weather. You NEED the basic essential stuff, everything else is most likely an unnecessary want.

[@patrickcross2799]

Brilliant! Thank you for sharing your perspective and all your experience! Love how you do what you do!

[@jordanbhoughton]

I love the expression. 'Thats a lot of money to spend to stay somewhere for free'

[@DrJosh2]

Start with ultralight backpacking, then transfer those principles into 4WD camping. You don’t need much.

[@oczuk32]

4x4 are fun money pits. I have a 1984 Subaru wagon. And 1988 Suzuki Samurai. I could honestly say I have spent probably around $15,000 both vehicles combined. I think I have gotten my money's worth out of both vehicles. They have both been my daily drivers at one point. To my camping vehicles.

[@M4c223c]

That’s how I approach things. Modular truck. I can haul, tow, camp. Only thing permanent is the suspension mods, winch, higher amp alternator, dual batteries, onboard air and and associated electrical and air lines. None of which is in the cargo or seating areas. Also I try and tell people go with the minimum until you find out something is necessary. Start out with food, water, first aid, recovery and inclement weather gear. After that adjust for your personal comfort levels. I have no problems with a pad a sleeping bag/pillow, a fridge and a roll of toilet paper……..wife wants a full on trailer with all the amenities of a 5 star resort. Makes it hard lol.

[@3920cruz]

It is all too commercial now. This is a very important video here, thx so much for saying out loud what many instinctively believe, but rarely discuss. It is so sad to see how over landing, camping, and RVing have become so much more expensive in the last 5 years! This trend has attracted so many new vendors selling so much more stuff, and yes some of it is good stuff, but much of it is really in the category, "we really don't need it." And look at how people are spending money on trucks, vans, or "off-road trailers." Again, the money spent is only justifiable if you are actually going on some long-term expedition, not weekends during the summer. Finally your point regarding on the why we getting away from our normal life? Why have TVs, microwaves, various electronics, and all the comforts of home to go off-grid. Just use a simple portable power unit and use nature and fires to warm your selves, and cook the food you eat, and buy a large cooler and fill it with ice? Here in the USA, all the big off-road shows, over landing events, etc... seem to be nothing more than places for buying stuff and seeing all the new stuff about to be released!!! How getting back to the roots and teaching people how to improve their skills, or hold the events/tours in places where people actually want to and should go under a guided/controlled arrangement! All to commercial now!!!

[@prasannakurukuladithya7630]

Ronny, The best video in my opinion you’ve done up to now on your KZbin channel. This is where it should all start before deciding on four wheeling Australia 👍🫶💪

[@paulclarke4431]

So apart from the on-screen text being annoying and poorly spelt, the math is also all wrong. The mods cost $20k, they don't suddenly disappear after 12 months. Could keep that vehicle for 10-20 years and keep using them (if you bought good stuff to begin with). Having said that, still agree with the minimalist concept. Perhaps there should be more showcases of budget and minimalist builds instead of the outrageous ones that appear on this channel and encourage all that spending in the first place.

[@carlholman2993]

I have kept my tacoma simple. Fiberglass cap, 3 inch lift, wheels/tires and some recovery gear/tools. Its my daily and overland vehicle. Since its used less frequently for camping we just stack totes in the back with clohes and gear with a couple tents. If solo i just sleep in the bed. Not flashy, but very functional!

[@jonathantan2469]

We do about 2 weeks/year of camping in places where offroad vehicles are used. Our solution is to rent a mine-spec 4x4 ute from Avis, which offers us a company discount program....

[@Tom-lf8hx]

100% good points mate, as you dont need a 6inch lift and 37s just to go down the beach or a dirt track to access a camp site

[@snakeinthegrass7630]

It's the Macho aspect of it. And of cause what Bob next door has.

[@lachiemay4588]

I don't agree with dividing the vehicle + setup price over how many days you use it per year, but rather the depreciation of the camping equipment you buy new. I rarely buy new cmaping equipment when setting up a 4wd so that when it comes time to sell the equipment I am not loosing money from depreciation in order to change my setup. For me especially during covid I get stuck in the cycle of building up a vehicle and I don't take it camping that much. Im in my early 20s but I have learnt that keeping a vehicle in stock form and thinking about the impact your next modification will have on the vehicles resale value is extremely important. Not putting a big lift and 35s on just to look cool is hard when your younger because of the mindset we are given from watching youtube vids.

[@ElijahDecker]

I've got two second gen Mitsubishi Monteros (what the Pajero is called in the U.S.) One is in the middle of a diesel swap. Mods are minimal. Running 31" ATs on stock lift. I intend to keep the diesel for life or at least until spare parts are no longer affordable. I plan to sell the gasser to a friend when the diesel is complete. I have less than 20K into both of them combined, including the purchase price of both used vehicles.

[@jeffreystorer4966]

Spot on ,just go and enjoy the bush with what you've got ,

[@Alex-bl7cf]

Nailed it Ronny. Wants & needs... Aftermarket see you coming folks.

[@reludennis]

Bought a used toyota minivan to go camping for the weekend. No mods...removed middle seats...lay down a 4 inch foam mattress ...and sleep out of the weather and safer than inside tent(snakes bears ticks)..more quiet than the tent . no access to remote places only 4x4 can go but those places are better if you have more people join...a few vehicles..to help each other if you get stuck or have an emergency. Plus the minivan is future proof and save money on gas and mods...and no envious looks from others like when you would show up with a expensive 4x4. Being reasonable with your finances and not trying to keep up with others or trends or fashion...will save you a lot of money and time. However it is nice to see someone like Ronnie spend the money and going big and showing all the cool stuff and gear and remote places.

[@ericburger2294]

We bought a 2006 Troopy in 2015 for A$36k and spend another A$30k on improvements (including front and rear bars, new suspension, Alu-cab hercules conversion to replace the "Kea" pop-top) resulting in a total outlay of A$66k. Since then we have done 5 trips in Southern and East Africa totaling 2.5 years and 100,000km. On that basis you could argue that the capital cost amounts to around $70 per day traveled or $0.66 per km driven. That's excluding diesel, maintenance, camping, food park entry fees and sundry costs). Luckily we have had no unexpected repairs. There's a few more trips planned and I suppose we may be able to sell the troopy when done with Africa (although by that time it will 20+ years old and approaching 400,000km on the clock. That might bring the cost down a bit. But we are having a ball with the lifestyle, so who cares.....

[@jscatt6123]

I’ve got a stock Tacoma with a camper shell, a sleeping bag , a piece of plywood sleeping platform, I get to where I want to go and back just fine.

[@hulsey1667]

I agree on the mods that don't add any resale value however camper trailers and caravans hold far more resale value comparatively. We got a camper trailer for 3 kids and they love it.

[@dubious6718]

You can go off-road, and use vehicle for road trips, without camping. I often start in the morning, and get home at night.

[@OnCountryWithMick]

And this is exactly why I have tried to keep my build and set up as budget as possible while still working well. After watching one of your videos a couple of years back discussing mods I filmed a video on the cost of my build from a bog stock 2002 NM Pajero to what it is today. Including the cost of my vehicle I have spent under $10,000 not including vehicle repairs. My dual battery system cost me less than $1000 and has held up great for 3 years so far. Yes I do have a 12v TV that cost me $30 on Marketplace but otherwise I don't need all the mod cons like coffee machine, inverter, induction etc etc. When building mine I kept in mind that I needed to transport family so needed 5 seats but wanted to sleep in the back of the vehicle so I have built it to that need. Even though I may not be camping every weekend I still find use for the fridge and such in day to day life. I'm always up for a Modified video when you are in NSW.

[@NasTimeAdventures]

It's the price we pay for freedom. I am working on a new build at the moment. Consciously trying not to install things I don't need. Weight has always been my biggest enemy. It takes experience though to know the difference between something that will improve your experience and something that will not. Great way to get people thinking. Well done Ronny.

[@joshburke4083]

Right on the money Ronny, applying this logic to my current 2009 RC Colorado that I'm building as a basic tourer. I was originally planning to keep it forever but unfortunately one vehicle stands in the way of that and it's my dream vehicle, an 80 series. It's the only wagon I would choose as I like how the luxury Land Cruisers (80-200 series) tailgates are identical to a Ute tub/canopy setup. As a result, I'm building my collie up with that in mind so keeping the tub and also keeping it so it doesn't compromise the reason I bought a Ute, for fishing/hunting and carrying dogs.

[@FJaypewpew]

dont put too much of everyone elses hype about 80's into your decision making yes solid front axel is great, the body if straight is tuf but they're heavy, dodgy around corners if they're loaded up, motors are meh grunt wise and guzzle fuel like nothing else but they'll last, unsafe in an accident (the only more unsafe vehicle would be a 75 series or old single cabs with 1 air bag), and toyota tax is crazy not trying to discourage you, i bought a ra7 deo 2 years ago so im in the same boat as you, would have gone an 80 but then the opportunity came to get one, i bought my ra7 for ($8k 236k kms) or 9k for a 80 with the interior stripped, raptor coating (means i got no idea how the pillars look) and it was near on 500 thousand kms which everyone says is fine, but honestly it was just too many things for me to have to deal with and a potential motor rebuild. maybe ill change my tune if i ever get one but i test drove em, and the biggest standout was how much it sways cornering, and thats coming from my shitbox that sways its nuts off anyway 4j powa baby honestly if i was to do it all over again and i was just looking for fun and didnt have the diesel bug in my brain, id have gone for a tb48 patrol those things are mad

[@joshburke4083]

@@FJaypewpew my decision on the 80 is because my brother has one he and his mate have restored and yeah, blows my Collie out of the water. His one handle's like a dream. I'll probably end up buying his as he is hopefully in the next few years going for a 100 series.

[@FJaypewpew]

@@joshburke4083 fair enough, the hardest part is finding the car and having someone around who knows what to do when a problem arises is sweet

[@joshburke4083]

@@FJaypewpew yeah too true. It's why my brother recommended to me to just buy his when he upgrades. Plus he has also driven GQ's and said the 80 is like a station wagon vs a Truck like the GQ.

[@Berawabilly]

You see it every day on the west Australian coast, backpackers having a ball and getting to all the same spots in their 5k Pajero

[@FourLowAdventures]

Another question to ask is how many years of retirement are you willing to postpone so you can avoid hammering in a few tent pegs lol. Also all that extra weight will increase maintenance costs. And regarding the wagon being cheaper just remember its going to have a luxury car tax on it. We have a really high quality tent setup and will stay in motels and airbnb sometimes, very modular and versatile, lightweight and comfortable.

[@mountainlogistics9882]

Mate i still run with a tent. I can't understand all these people who want to "get back to nature" but turn up with everything they use at home. Totally defies the point of getting away from it all.

[@stephenhankey688]

Excellent video, true to life,from Steve near Chester England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 where the Roman's once lived.

[@Vanisl4runner1]

This is the principles of the book Rich Dad, poor dad! Good stuff Ronnie!!

[@xchick10]

i really love this conversation but i also think its (the cost of vehicle and upgrades) worth different things to different people...if you have the money and it makes you happy then why not...even if you only go camping 10 days a year. i do think the point of this hits home. i absolutely do not need a roof top tent because of cost v maintaining/use cost. I do want a cargo camper because it is multi purpose (we move every 2-4 years, I have motorcycles, and we camp out of it) and I'm happy to spend the money on it to achieve my camping/life goals. nice conversation.

[@Reverend1776]

I appreciate this calculated perspective. But, I also consider creating and maintaining a vehicle that is absolutely capable to handle a SHTF scenario. I know some would say this is rediculous, but in my neck of the woods, it's a valuable asset to ve self reliable, even if I can't get out as often as I'd like. Thanks again Ronny for still speaking truth here.

[@positivepete4265]

We all saw what happened during covid. The communist states of Australia and her piggy police and pussy military are AGAINST US and will kill you if you disobey. SHTF scenarios don't exist. Because they will find you, and kill you.

[@samjohnson9894]

Yup. Same here. Very valuable asset to have, a built, capable rig with redundancy to provide unlimited compressed air, renewable water, and renewable power as it sits. The money (in quality bits) really just ensures that it will (continue to) work as designed, every time it's needed.

[@oldbloke204]

One of the reasons I actually bought a 4wd but it was more to get out of Dodge if there was a bushfire heading our way. More options and room to chuck stuff in and good for going camping a few times a year as well. I've got a few mods but won't be going crazy as I just can't see the point really where we are. If you lived in the donga and were remote a lot then I may think differently.

[@TheLukaszpg]

Lol hilarious justification. Dumbest idea yet but whatever makes you sleep at night And the earth is flat ey

[@chrisbeerad8835]

preppers ride ? cant say i havnt considered that . hidden weapons and reliable radio gear included

[@TooGouda]

facts.... 13yrs ago i sold my truck. 12 yrs ago I bought a forester and rallied it out after the warranty ran out. its been paid off for 7 yrs. still get out 20-30 nights a year and another 15+ day trips in it. basic mods like a frontrunner platform and some accessories for the platform, wolf packs and water cans. small solar generator and baby solar panel to keep the lights on and charge cameras and laptops etc. its 100% fine as a daily driver in the city and gets 27mpgs with a/t tires and the roof platform. everything can come out during the week except the roof platform....and get chucked back in on the weekend to go out into the mountains. can it do hard tracks? no... but it does go pretty much anywhere and through anything it has clearance for. at this point since most of the yearly costs of the vehicle would still exist even if it was just my city vehicle... my camp trips cost me like $10 plus food and fuel :D

[@TooGouda]

i will say however... i do have plans for what will likely end up being a $100-150k build. but when i do it, it will be to use it for a decade for 1-2 months a year and be purpose built after owning 2 trucks and 2 SUV's prior

[@jdcoverland365]

Long Sorry: Ronny Thank you for this discussion. Two ways at looking at this IMHO. ( To those in Au. You are in a different situation then most of the world, unless you live in Qld, and are not doing the Cape York and related tracks. ) You maybe able to rent a kitted out 4x4 and spare yourself the time ,effort ,mistakes, headaches and "costs" building if you are only going out a few times a year. This also saves on repair costs. As many know, the Canning Stock trail as beautiful as it is ,eats machines for breakfast. If you are a weekender , destroy a rental( flipped a rental truck on the highway after hitting "black Ice", total write off.) Ronny suggests "Try before you buy". I agree 100 %. I have changed my build design 3x already and I am yet to strike an arc. This has cost me a lot. Regarding induction cooking. A 2000W induction cooktop, (I have two,) won't run off of a 2000W inverter. Why, because the inverter runs at 87-95% efficiency, so you don't have enough power. Been there, fixed that, with a 5000W Carutu inverter that cost the same as some other smaller inverters. If you are thinking about running an inverter, or need a bigger unit, look up Carutu, & Go Big. Better to have more power capability than not enough. This was one of many "learning lessons". Ronny was talking to this point many times when he said that your needs/wants and circumstances change. My own journey is proof of that. My rig is set up for Overlanding. A different animal. This will be a permeant home (retired) so my needs/wants are different. I will, when all is said and done, have spent at least 100k. My rig is based on a 1 ton truck platform. The living space is 8 ft x 7 ft x 7 ft or 2483.4 mm x 2133.6 mm x 2133.6 mm. Habitat unit is removable, with no pass through. I have had tents, slept under the stars ( hard a sore back in the morning), slept in Adirondacks in the winter ,and built a few quinzhees. We had a slide in camper for years. I've pulled campers/boats/snow machines. Towing is a different world ! You have to rethink your way of driving. There is a steep learning curve! I had a trailer pull me into a ditch backwards. A trailer out of control can flip your car. If you are thinking about a trailer, the cost is a small part of the discussion. Canvas gets wet in the rain! Wet canvas packed away molds! Canvas does not stay warm at night! I am NOT a fan of pop up campers. You need a good TRUCK to pull a trailer ! Your Honda Civic is great in town, sucks at pulling! Thank you to those who got to the end of this. Get out and enjoy Life.

[@ADayInTheLifeOfJames]

Good, call Ronny I’ve been saying this for years.. Another ripper, video, analysis, and perspective mate 👌 only one to mention it.. 4:09 200 Series owners 😶

[@chrisbarwick4807]

We ended up Going with a wagon and a small builder’s trailer fits tent, fridge, 120ah battery the lot in for under 5k, previous to this had a Jayco pop top wasting money up the Side of house, great video

[@llpp202]

Gone on a handful of trips in my 2WD 2001 tundra. Nothing flashy, stock size KO2s, Leer camper shell, and a bed. Ive spent about 11,000 on my truck including the purchase cost. Most of that money has been maintenance and tires. I don't need a 4x4, its way too expensive to do 4x4 activities. I stay on paved/loose dirt roads and setup camp.

[@PeteFromOZ]

I'm in the process of specifying a 4wd to keep for 10 - 20 years to see all the iconic Australian sights. I have watched your videos extensively to help me work out what I need and, more importantly, what I'm unlikely to need. What I landed on is the Ineos grenadier trialmaster with a bull bar, side steps and roof bars. Accessories will be factory fitted and covered by warranty, with the exception of an ARB compressor. The plan is to purchase a van in the next couple of years as well. Initially, I'll use a tent and the gear I take hiking. I would have added more stuff to my build before watching your videos. It has been very entertaining doing the research. Keep adding great educational videos on your channel, and I'm sure you will get a legion of newcomers to Overlanding following you.

[@markhowells13]

I love the idea...but id hate the idea of getting parts for the Ineos in Australia, especially the more remote parts

[@PeteFromOZ]

@@markhowells13 it’s a concern however the car has bilstein shocks and eibach springs or brembo brakes , ZF transmission etc. It’s essentially a parts bin car utilising some of the most produced components in the category. Good in theory but unproven. Brough superior does the same thing in the motorbike world only they use very premium parts and sell for about the same price as an ineos.

[@Vanisl4runner1]

This video is awesome! Let me do my math! 1991 Dodge w250 Cummins $2000 Repairs to make it road safe $8000 Buying a camper/modify $6000 Spent 140 days living or camping out of it in the last 9months 16000 / 140 = 114.30 per night. But this number will get better as the rest of the year drags on.

[@georgeszurbach444]

Maturity and realism kicking in soon Ronny will be promoting van life.

[@timinglis4780]

I use my ute for work most of the year. Fair enough though my work is in the central Wheatbelt south of Southern Cross most of the time so it gets used. My camp setup is pretty cheap in comparison, a swag, chair, awning and a battery box with a solar panel hooked up for the weekend use (I charge it at home) and a jetboil. My recovery gear is basic but works, kings air compressor a snatch strap and a shovel. The ute is 13 years old and has 32x16 inch tires on steelies with a mild suspension job. Mostly it’s aimed at work but can be loaded up quickly for a weekend camp with the dirt bike, which is where I’m aimed. No canopy just throw the gear on the back in bunnings boxes or on the seat. All basic and non permanent and cheap

[@OffGridAdventure]

I’ve had some epic camping trips. I document some of my adventures, and have learned one very important lesson from these experiences. You see, the most important thing is…

[@kentwillis]

One of the best videos I've watched in a while. Reality check for most on what they spend vs use. Great work 👍

[@williamparslow5060]

Yesss!!!

[@grantlouw3182]

You can apply the same logic to anything eg we got a hobie tandem sailing kayak and I only felt it was worth the money once we had reduced the cost per hour of actual usage to below $50/hr (roughly cost to hire).

[@Lsjeffery97]

Haha got a camper trailer for the first time and we take that away with my full canopy set up for about 8 days then go somewhere else for another week for about a week. So two weeks Christmas every year then every long weekend plus rdos so maybe 6 weeks away minimum is alright for us with an under 2 baby.

[@andrevanderwalt2515]

5 years ago I bought my Amarok for $22,000. Bullbar, and 2" lift already fitted. I then spent: $500 on a winch $300 on a UHF $400 on steel wheels $980 on muddies $200 for rock sliders Free rear bar (swapped for the stock towbar and rear bumper) Free LED bar $100 for cabling to the tub. And that is then also my daily driver... All my camping gear has moved to my camper...

[@johnnumbat9782]

Thanks Ronnie for your insights and reporting - I got lucky (a term I define as hard work and timing) by purchasing around pre-Covid Jan 2020 a well-loved 2010 Automatic diesel Hilux for $18200 in immaculate condition with factory bullbar, sidesteps, driving lights, ARB canopy on tub - over the last three years I’ve replace tub/canopy with an aluminium liftoff canopy $3000, Sunraysia wheels and Yokohama tyres $1200 Rhino basket $80 and roof console $120 - I’ve done the canopy fit out using old stock Hal-price aluminium drawers/slide out pantry for $650 Redarc BCDC charger on special $450 and 100ah Amptron Lithium battery on special $810 and Kings 1500W Inverter for $129 - all items were new - having an Avionics background I’ve done all wiring/ switches including vehicle cable runs $300 - so all up around $6800 and I camp about 90 days per year so cording to your metrics about $75 per day for accessories only - next on the list for stage 3 are RFT, fire extinguishers, water supply and solar blanket.

[@williamparslow5060]

Show me?

[@johnnumbat9782]

@@williamparslow5060 I don’t share pictures for privacy but I can tell you the 4WD industry is scamming everyone with highly inflated prices and knows it so my example is proof you can save a lot if you’re creative and patient - I’ve learnt how to ‘make a Vegemite sandwich last a week’.

[@GustavoAmaral74]

The most important video in your channel Rony! Awesome!

[@seanchristie7150]

Fantastic real world examples from the poster boy. Well done Ronny

[@shanedwyer8026]

Thank you was going to update to sr5 HiLux spend $70k and 20k for modes now I’ll speed 20 k on my 105 series landcruiser save 70k thanks for making my mind. Up to lay down 90k and go less 10 trips a year speaks for itself thank you 👍

[@BroncLander]

I'm all in with 10k and use it for more than camping. It's my daily. And it sucks to sleep in. But it works

[@paigelangley9150]

Lucky here in SA loadshedding has made the 4wd dual battery system and inverter a lifesaver on a daily basis, that car is worth every cent for this alone

[@surajwelgama1223]

Thank you Rony

[@coolstar2398]

It probably would have been good for me to see this video sooner. At the moment while I’m doing uni I am only making it out for about 18 nights a year. I have got the inverter and induction cooker and I certainly plan to keep them after I sell or crush my current car.

[@mattyb1624]

I was saying this about caravanning. By the time you factor in extra fuel, time, depreciation, wear on vehicle, caravan park fees... you might aswell trip around Australia staying at hotels and cabins.

[@erhardt1477]

Nicely done sir 👍 I’m sure this video will make a lot of people think 🤔

[@boringusername792]

A giant inverter with extra batteries and solar to power an induction cooker and coffee machine... A troopy that is kitted once then started over from scratch not long after at great expense... Could Ronny be referencing a particular youtuber?

[@adventures_with_simo]

Anything you get enjoyment from, it doesn’t matter how much it costs you. As long as you enjoy the time away.

[@markm235]

Get out there camping more and prices come down. Also divide the number by vehicle passages.

[@samartz]

Good points Ronny!! Also buying 2nd hand saves you lot! just bought a solar kit and battery for $200 all together. And borrowing saves heaps as well 😉