Tour of a Nomad Living in a SUV

[@thecorbettchronicles]

"Hermit who likes to socialize." I felt that in my soul!

[@bags4930]

BINGO!

[@Swimdeep]

I’m a disabled Vet as well and I’m doing a similar thing as Eric.🌿

[@amybee40]

And you have the best user-name ever!

[@Swimdeep]

@@amybee40 Thanks amybee

[@marthas8108]

Super! I have an Element myself and LOVE her. One suggestion -- if that cooler he's keeping his laundry in is waterproof, put a little water and soap in there and it will agitate while you're driving -- especially off road. Toss the soapy water, add in a rinse cycle, drive some more, and hang to dry.

[@jannah4288]

LOL now that is a great idea!

[@cchoi108]

Whoa my mind is blown . Does that actually work?

[@savvybytes3748]

There is a wonderful John Steinbeck book called Travels with Charley (his dog). For some reason I never forgot his description of how he did his laundry. He had a 5 gallon bucket with lid, bungee corded so it wouldn’t tip over with that same method of some soap in the laundry, washing while you’re driving lol.

[@willdrivesu7914]

That is a really great idea, will have to keep this in mind once I get out there!

[@Loud2013]

@@savvybytes3748 I love that book!!!!

[@beverlyharward9631]

Thanks to all veterans!! ( I'm an Army Brat, lol). My Dad was a lifer. We like Honda too.

[@kimmybee12]

Such a cool build! He has everything that means something to him and he's free. LOVE the dog!!!!!!

[@name.terrie]

I totally agree. The dog...OMG so pretty. I know it was a tour but it would've been fun to. Get a better look. Pretty adorable.

[@sunclover]

Element!!! 🧡🧡🧡 So many owners have been doing this for years. 😊

[@helenlouise1737]

Eric has it together! He's enjoying his life & is smart about what makes him happy. I love his parting remark, "get out of that planning stage & get out there & DO IT". Inspiring!

[@rebelgirl7289]

Thank you, Erich, for your service to our great country, and for sharing your rig with us. Cute dog.

[@myrootsgraspNewsoil]

I just really enjoyed his chill vibe. I’m happy he’s created a life that works for him.

[@IraRomfh]

Way to completely ignore the best part of the build, that amazing mastiff chillin in the front seat!

[@lovewhitey2027]

Didn’t want dog 🐕 stealing the show 🎤🤣

[@cheesecake4648]

hahahaha that super quiet dog surprised me! xD super cute! And in a tiny space, he managed to live with his dog! FREEDOM!!

[@WisconsinWanderer]

So many great ideas and the record player now that’s a game changer! I’m a vinyl guy too! Thank you Eric and Bob!!

[@vanished3306]

I love how simple his conversion is, perfect!

[@gailasgreatdanesandmanes1042]

That's a cool build! Cozy, and all the essentials...record player and motorcycle too! Life of luxury right there!

[@zoommikerobinson3315]

Those 'doors' are beyond awesome. I love vintage, as well.

[@frankg8178]

The vinyl record thing is awesome and the laundry campers so cool you go Eric

[@mhayes6864]

Love the doors’ openings! Really organized set up! Love the bright red ice chest w the two tone gray! Two of my favorite colors! I thank him for his service! So glad he’s being taken care of as many veterans are homeless.

[@sophiarenee5969]

I know Erich personally and he is a talented and intelligent man. Thank you for sharing his story. Thoroughly enjoyed!!! But his sweet pooch definitely deserved a proper intro. 😀

[@rhill49849]

I had a Honda 90 when I was a kid. I loved that bike and it took me everywhere! Thank you for your service!

[@janetragan-woessner3882]

Thanks Eric. What a testimony you have. You are content and self-sufficient. Go in peace. You are free to move about now. 👏 👍

[@JustDoingChelle]

Bob, I met Randy and Katie today at Ocean Shores. They are from Eugene. He is a fan of yours. And building out a Promaster. Lovely couple. It was so fun to have your channel in common. It is very cool to know the Nomad language. We agreed that we love this community of people. Thank you so much Bob!

[@JustDoingChelle]

Hi There did something happen to your ❤? It went away. I edited Katie's name. Saw them again today. It was busy. Wood carving vendors. Sand castles. Busy! Lots of fun.

[@SL_BA]

The smaller the space that someone can survive in the more fascinating I find it. Really liked the motorcycle. I would loved to see a little more of the dog. Its awesome that the solar panel and battery supported the fridge. ~Scotty

[@vannemocilac274]

Cute pup, classic cooler, a record player and a 1969 motor bike! Gotta love him!

[@lauriewalsh420]

Bob I love your sponsor introduction! "Me, I'm the sponsor!😆. You're a great man and so humble! Thanks Also another great video!!! Very nice

[@sandeedobberstine5591]

Thank you for your service! Nice rig. Hope you enjoy your travels!

[@daisyv5038]

Aww. I was hoping for an introduction to the beautiful pupper in the Honda, too! Such a good baby. It's truly endless what people can accomplish when they have the freedom to explore. I'm constantly blown away by the creative space planning! 👏🏾 👏🏾 👏🏾

[@breadboxandthepostie5097]

He’s in videos over on my channel! His name is Frank and he’s an American Bully ! He’s a great travel companion and friend!

[@graceweber2822]

Me too. So well behaved doggie.

[@daisyv5038]

@@breadboxandthepostie5097 oh hooray! Running over there to see the angel bear, Frank!!! Thanks for letting us know how to get more of him. I wasn't alone in being kinda grumpy he didn't make more of an appearance! Haha. Dog people! 🤣

[@breadboxandthepostie5097]

@@daisyv5038 I think we may have talked about Frank but all the footage isn’t used in the final video. Frank also has Instagram- Frankthetanktravels and mine is breadbox_and_the_postie

[@mikewalker4260]

Love your videos I’m preparing to live the nomad life so you’ve been a tremendous help!! Thank you 🙏🏼

[@amyd1549]

Me too!

[@bloubrown802]

Prepping also

[@cheesecake4648]

Good luck to you all!

[@TravelinBoneSC]

Me 2 🇺🇲 (USAF Vet) Great set up, Eric!

[@maryhart5804]

Thanks for the video. I’m just starting to assemble something to get on the road. Maybe I’ll meet you down the road. I love the succinct brevity of your build. I’m trying not to buy everything but fascinated with gadgets and useful stuff. Very informative and you seem like a fine young man. Safe travels mary

[@stacylozier3566]

I live in my Honda Element 2006. U love ,love it..It fits me perfect. Have been thinking of a van but the gas mileage is keeping me in the Element.

[@planetamiau2321]

Thanks Eric for your words, really apreciate your insights. Thanks Bob. Cheers from Patagonia (Franco)

[@wizzdumb_610]

So inspiring. I've been a nomad my whole life. At 31, I have lived in a total of 30 different homes. So moving around has always been a big part of my life. I just purchased myself an 05 Element today & spent all my savings on it. (Because used cars are outrageous right now.) But over the course of the next few months I hope to build myself a rig out of it. Little by little. I love the way he set this up & I think I may copy him on the mattress he used. It looks very cozy & a nice size as well. Enough about me though. I just wanted to say thanks for sharing your rig & giving me some ideas. I hope you have safe & fun travels with your Element! 😎

[@simplyrise5217]

I love how the side doors open. An awning & tent attached. You have a living room on rainy days. Plus a diesel heater... aaaah nice.

[@chili5525]

Diesel heater in the tent? I'm also a '03 El owner, for four years. been traveling in mine since mid-June, getting ready to head South in a week, but I'm afraid I'm going to hit some cool Temps along my journey.

[@ajt0319]

Right on Erich and your trusty travel companion. Thanks Bob, another wonderful nomad introduction and rig tour.

[@alexanderweaver4838]

Thank you for your service, Erich! Your Honda Element is a nice set up, minimal with everything that you need; and you have your canine friend, too. You are the first person I've seen with a record player...how cool! I miss the old school stuff and when I was serving in the Air Force, stereo systems with turntables, reel-to-reels, the receiver and huge furniture-like speakers (mine were Sansui's) were the trend. Man, I miss those days. Anyway, congratulations on doing what you want to do. I can relate to the hermit with occasional socialization attitude as I am the same way. I can have a lot of fun socializing but when the time to be alone comes, I want to be far away from the madding crowd. Good luck, Erich, and I hope to socialize one day with you on the road and I'll buy the "step 2's" as Canadian You Tuber Steve Wallis refers to them...LOL.

[@frederickfred2714]

All the hiking accessories from camping stores are fantastic for people with a home on wheels cos you need a sense of space in a small place ..so many good ideas out there ..like using cushion covers to store soft clothing socks in one underwear ..t-shirts ..jeans .. anything that you can shake out creases ..

[@georgepurdyiii307]

Welcome home Troop! His bed reminds me of when I started trucking. My "sleeper" as they tried to call the first ones in old cabover Internationals didn't have that large of a mattress but about a 23"×83" ! But it slept great for a skinny guy!

[@bryanduffy3995]

They were called ,a coffin sleeper, due to the narrow space was about the same as a coffin

[@sharongypsydove6080]

O God Casket or coffin sleepers hated them... Having to climb over everything to get into them.. Trying to Get dressed and put your clothes on was almost.. impossible

[@BBBCanada1]

Fantastic set up. Might have to get that fridge. Love his bike and outlook. It’s all about keeping it simple with minimal costs. Thanks for your service sir.

[@einzgeisha]

that was pretty neat! He used metal license plates with hinges as little doors! I also liked his creative idea bout how to store dirty laundry! that is definitely a big one. When I go on road trips, then I just put it in a garbage bag and stuff it somewhere in the Rav4 or if I stay a night at a Motel 6/Super 8 then I can do a wash at their machines before heading back home.

[@belindagrigsby3535]

Thank you Bob for all you do. Your inspiration is contagious. A big hug to you!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Cube_Ernator1077]

Luv Eric's setup!! Brilliant and so very simple too!!!!

[@JustDoingChelle]

That setup rocks! Getting ready to build out the suburban. This was the idea I had looking at my space. Seeing this makes it seem possible. Thanks for sharing.

[@NomadicIsaac]

Check out Suboverland! They have some pretty good builds

[@sharongypsydove6080]

Depending on what style suburban you have you'll have A lot of room..

[@JustDoingChelle]

@@sharongypsydove6080 2012 LT.

[@TerryC69]

Erich is proof of what is possible even on a very small budget. Thanks for the interview, Bob!

[@coversbymanu93]

Dang, can't believe this was 2 years ago. By far my favorite Bob Wells episode. This guy is a legend and has a really good vibe. I loved his setup, it would be perfect for me as well as a single male. Great video! Love your stuff, Bob. Hope to meet you one day wandering around the country in my vehicle.

[@2wise4u2]

I love these videos. It shows ingenuity and creativity and I love how now matter how simple or complicated the build, Bob always makes it interesting.

[@sojournersister]

I wanna thumbs up to all the cool, gracious comments and hats off to Eric… I feel you about solitude, your bike to regulate and decompress and wanting to socialize on your own time … I get it 😊❤️ I also love your pup 👍❤️ thanks for sharing, You’re inspiring me to quit procrastinating and get on with it! Be well!

[@lindac7146]

I'm really impressed with this simple and useful build.

[@zorazorazorzzora8333]

Finally an Element!!!!! Yipee! I have a 2008 Element 258,000 miles! Was a nomad for 3 years , I slept better in my Element than I’ve ever slept anywhere! I worked along the way 6 six states …. Only back in sticks and bricks to help a family member that needs help! I miss it so much ! I too am a hermit that likes to socialize just a bit !! I’m a Navy veteran yahoo !

[@taritabonita22]

Love your life Eric❣️ Thank you for your service 🇺🇸

[@fancysfolly554]

Thank you for your service soldier. Seems like a perfect setup for you and your dog....really nice. God bless you.

[@raulrrojas]

Erics setup is great, mainly practical, good for long travels. I have a setup in my head where I imgine taking away all but the driver seat in my Ranger pick up truck, seting up a bed, and keeping all my stuff in the back of the truck. I can see its close to what Eric did. Thanks for letting us visit your home!

[@canoefor-one1102]

Thank you for your service, Eric. Happy trails to you for the rest of your life.

[@janetjoiner9204]

I have a 2006 element. BTW they can pull 1,500 but no more than that. It's a great little car. We call it the "Toaster".

[@oldmillrd8153]

My daughter calls our orange a gray panel 2005 ex awd "pumpkin". Perfect name for her.

[@victoriabaker4400]

We've got a 2008. BEST CAR EVER!!!!

[@giselleplantbasedvegan9174]

Great seeing his home. I have a 2003 Element that I love. I’m not a Nomad but I can park or do things and hang out in the back of the Element. His dog looks like a cutie. I wonder what he does with his dog when he’s out riding. And thank you for your service, Erich. Stay well 🌟

[@kristiharman2843]

"a hermit who occasionally likes to socialize" exactly!

[@b0borden437]

I'm still laughing at the record player......I do love that motorbike Eric.

[@randypaddock6506]

Very cool!!! I just bought a 306,000 mile 2003 honda element that was missing the catalytic converter for $500.00. After doing some fixes I cant wait to do some camping in it. I feel the magnetic pull to live out there in a much more simple life. Great video

[@kimmckillop3334]

Its amazing how many people seem to live in their vans lately!

[@mtaylor2901]

Great build Eric! I have a 2006 AWD that’s built out... the Element is the best vehicle I’ve ever had... maybe I’ll see you on the road. Your dirty clothes “hamper” is brilliant! Safe travels everyone!

[@xXBuckOFiveXx]

There is something about Quartzite in the fall/winter you cant replicate anywhere. The quiet stillness in the air, the consistent frequency of the 10 freeway in the distance, the sunrise coming up over Scaddan Mountain. This video brings back some memories.

[@lunardiinferi6114]

he seems to be a decent human I would love to be friends with. Ps. Who is hitting the thumbs down on all these videos? Like are you upset that people aren't living in a "normal" house or something?

[@storiesbyperri-fullofphoni4568]

I’ve wondered the same about thumbs down. Strange.

[@lunardiinferi6114]

@@storiesbyperri-fullofphoni4568 either people hate Bob or just anyone not living in a house...

[@debbiedogs1]

Could be people hitting the screen accidentally sometimes, too.

[@normaevett]

Thanks to Bob's friend for his service! Love the simple set up! Laundry...a little soap and water in that cooler and when you arrive, the sloshing around from driving will have washed your clothes!

[@nalomelikukui8134]

Thank you for this video. I would have liked to have met the cutie puppy in the front seat. We didn't see what else was over there . . .

[@breadboxandthepostie5097]

He’s in videos over on my channel! His name is Frank and he’s an American Bully I got at animal services in Florida!

[@pattyk8594]

His set up is so good! Loved seeing his pup in the front seat too. Thanks Bob!

[@catherinenelson4162]

This looks like a perfect set up for one person!

[@mrphatmunkeyspew6969]

yeah .someone who ain't getting lucky .if you know what i mean.

[@chrisbrousseau413]

Great job Erich! Thanks for your service! I'm happy for you - living your way - cute pup too! Take care Erich & thanks & take care Bob!

[@RandyRandersonthefamous]

I'm a honda element owner and it's an EXTREMELY underrated vehicle. ~25mpg with SUV cargo capacity (no towing really). Everyone agrees they are underpowered but the MPG and cargo volume can't be beat. It's a challenge to live out of an element.

[@terririggle6106]

Thank you, Erich, for your service to our country! I love that you have a record player….and that you are very creative with yr space. Best of luck with yr travels!

[@1shirleynewman]

Thanks for sharing Bob.

[@earlybird6069]

I'm feeling this guy. I'm 45 as well and working hard to retire early. Don't want to wait because who knows!

[@memikel1489]

I always love a first time and this is the first time I've ever seen a van/ rv tour with a record player I love it

[@dodgerblue7381]

Eric, Thank You for your Service and Best Wishes to you. I bet that Boxer keeps you from being lonely. Love those dogs.

[@04charl08]

Hiro’s Hotrods in Bellingham, WA Makes swivel seats for the Elements. The puppy in the video needs a swivel seat.

[@mtaylor2901]

I can’t get a reply from them to see if they’re still making the swivels..

[@lonestarlaurel8620]

Wow - awesome tip 🥰

[@MichellsAdventures]

Thumbs up for the cutest bulldog copilot ❤️❤️👍🏽👍🏽

[@northernelements2873]

I bought my 2003 honda element last year and have been working on it ever since. the parts are always on backorder and the issues abound. that being said I love this vehicle the space is immense and it just speaks to me. i wish they would build a new model id buy one straight off the production line.

[@julianncyclist]

Yay! An Element. I have one and have been slowly building it for the road. This one looks awesome.

[@victoriabaker4400]

His creation of the "vestibule" as he called it, is really important. You have to have a place for your legs and feet, and to use the potty, and get in and out. I have lived out of my Element for a few weeks at a time, absolutely love it. best car ever. Also, there are a number of other Element conversion videos on KZbin if you haven't seen those. But Erich's simple, inexpensive, and thoughtful conversion is AWESOME.

[@bloubrown802]

Still prepping to do the Nomad life

[@angeladawn805]

Super set-up Erich, I'm guessing the military background has informed his well organised set up. But seriously, a 1960s motorcycle, and a vinyl record player, how cool is that??? Thanks Bob and Erich, for sharing your story :) :)

[@kamarbazarek6460]

Luv this guy’s vibe...cedar wood smells wonderful..... cute Puppers always checking on his dad.

[@raveninavaniam9438]

Wow!! ... great set-up in that Honda !!! Im still having trouble finding the best bed arrangement. Very cool !!! I want to sell a few seats out of my Dodge Caravan to lighten the vehicle and use my stows....if anyone is needing to replace a Caravan seats, hit me up :) Really love Eric's set-up!!

[@lovewhitey2027]

Try FB marketplace

[@frederickfred2714]

Lots of good ideas for a comfortable bed with storage underneath out there on KZbin . Explore ! !

[@gardenlevel7385]

Yes, thanks for your service. Happy trails!

[@elgringolocothetraveler]

I enjoyed this video. 👍 I hope that Eric and his pup are still doing well out here on the road! ✌️

[@nophonecamera]

Man, I love that he has a record player. legend.

[@tiffanylogan1351]

Thank you, Eric and Bob! Eric, thank you for your service. Your pup is adorable!

[@sarahkathleen6752]

Erich did such a great job with this build!

[@kkhodgkinson]

Great video, Bob and Erich! I have a 2006 Honda Element which I'm currently setting up for part-time living. Nice set up! :)

[@breadboxandthepostie5097]

If you need any suggestions let me know! Erich

[@kkhodgkinson]

@@breadboxandthepostie5097 Thanks a bunch! I appreciate that. I'm just getting started with the basics and know I'm going to have questions. :)

[@davidbacon9223]

thank you! maybe the little 'Honda Trail 125 ABS' is something i would enjoy. (homeless)

[@breadboxandthepostie5097]

Hey that’s me! Had a great time meeting Bob and doing the interview such a great dude! I forgot to mention my KZbin channel to him if anyone wants to follow me just get there through my profile! 👍

[@bradberry1083]

Have two Honda Element‘a an 04’ AWD auto and an 05’ AWD 5 speed. Would like to stealth camper both of them. Also have a 79’ Honda PA 59 moped that I am trying to get on the road again. Enjoy your life and thanks for your service!

[@Sirshackleton]

An Element is perfect for the nomad life! We owned one and loved it. I wish Honda still made them

[@manfrummt]

Cool. I have an Element. Best vehicle I've had

[@rexrexerest5023]

I'm inspired, Eric great guy got things "right" for himself.

[@Ploobstill]

Move beyond the planning stage! That is the advice I need. Thanks

[@ReneaDooserider]

Thank you for your service friend and your dog is so cute and that’s a great set up thank you BOB for showing his vehicle. 💕💕💕

[@readyok-]

I appreciate his honesty! It's better to be honest than pretend everything is perfect on the road. It really is amazing to be a nomad but it's important to know that life on the road may not be for everyone, nothing will fulfill you completely but it's darn near close.

[@carlo1132]

Thanks for your service vet2VET.

[@pandaoverboard]

If you were in the army before this is LUXURY, if you know you know! GG buddy, keep it up

[@shadomane]

Nice simple build. Nice blanket, I have one just like it. Thanks for sharing.

[@robinbeers6689]

His four footed co-pilot is adorable.

[@maehay4065]

Eric thank you for your service in the military. Vintage things are one of my favorite things and your clever use of the license plates for cabinet doors. When my family traveled up to the Siverton area we always stopped for the beautiful water falls still brings me back to those fond memories during my youth. It would be great to take a trip there again. I also really like how you arranged your rig. I only wish I could learn to ride on a motorcycle like yours. Happy travels Eric.👍

[@rebeccaofpollywogflatts8976]

Learning all I can. Thanks Bob

[@mikewalker4260]

Thank you Eric 👍🏼