I am so impressed, Sage! It is hard to believe how small The Element is on the outside, but how big you have made it on the inside. The third time is definitely the charm! Your story telling, filming and writing skills are up there with the best. Not to mention the creative editing! Thank you so much for sharing this Elemental video.
Very nice. I like your thinking of keeping it as roomy and light as possible. The easier it is to build and maintain the better and it works. The more complicated something is the more things to go wrong and harder to repair.
Paint roof white and make the solar panel tilt so that you can have more power in winter months. Parking with the windshield facing east and one side of the vehicle be the "warm and dry side" is also wise. Anything heavy, like that battery, is better off on the floor... 23 + years off grid here.
Thanks for the tips. Not all of those will work in my situation but with a larger rig and more space they would be great. In such a tight space you gotta kind just make it fit.
Very cool build out! I started one back in 2004 when I bought my Element but never finished. Well thought out and far better than the pvc pipe plan for a platform I was attempting.
Awesome and simple! The slide you can refine with "Roller Ball Caster roller" or "Roller bearings" (Search both) HArbor Freight, Amazon, etc... You can counter sink them into your bench wood base so they don't take up space and the storage slide can ride on the ball bearing out for less friction! Not necessary for you, but cuts down if you decided to store something heavy.
Oh yeah for sure I could use those if my weight needs ever increased for that pullout. I intentionally chose the pegboard Masonite because it’s smooth and the holes would allow for it to not crate a suction to the bottom when trying to lift and pull out. Rollers would eliminate that problem too.
Definitely the best of dozens of Element builds I’ve seen on RUclips. This would make an amazing dorm room for my son as long as he chooses a school that doesn’t have extreme weather shifts. I’m already planning on giving him my ‘08 EX.
You should get some wool socks and a OneWheel 😅 Wool socks can be worn multiple days in a row without stinking because they're naturally antimicrobial, and the OneWheel is the greatest thing on earth. With your lifestyle, the OneWheel could take you places you otherwise might not venture to.
Great efficiency! Thank u. I am tall… Sienna vans have hard tops that can be added- wondering if you have seen Elements with standup hard tops… not just roof tents.
Excellent upgrades Sage. I'm inspired to do something similar to my 2008 El. Sliding drawer under the bed is brilliant. Sadly 2008 passenger front seat does not till forward, die to airbags in the seat back. I may swap that seat for the older model tilting version. I have barely squeezed in a six foot long bed. Yay you for sharing the new improved lay out.
Yeah most of the time that I was using this setup I cooked on the tailgate. But I wanted to make sure I had the option to cook inside in case I was rained out or something.
Instead if a sink......you can use a canning funnel to drain into a water jug: you can spit into it when you brush your teeth and get 2 collapsible basins [1 for washing dishes, etc. and 1 for 🧽 sponge baths, etc.] That way you save counter space.....you empty the basins into the funnel which is always there. I would also get a collapsible toilet bucket for emergencies......they don't take up hardly any space when collapsed and can fit in the side pocket of your door.
Hi Sage! Love the various different ways you've built out your Element. I am in the process of researching ways to convert my '08 Element to a camper and I'm finding tons of info from your vids. Thanks so much for sharing. New Sub!
Great work with excellent improvements. Only thing I would probably add is a small 12V compressor fridge. Solar and Goal Zero should be enough to run it. Love our Element, we've owned it for ten years now.
I'm building one soon. Video up this month.... i like the sliding idea, but its too tall IMO. Mine is short and wide. With lots of storage and ill make some space for my cooler in the back window. Wish I could show some pictures
Yeah I was torn on height. I chose to go just about the seat mount so the bed could be a bit wider. The higher you make the bed platform the wider it can be but then the less comfortable it is sitting. Looking forward to seeing your setup!
I totally get it, I'm a little shorter so the low seat doesn't bother me too much. I just really like having vertical space. I do like the holes in your box.
As an Element owner, also 2006, who camps, don’t we all constantly try to improve??😂😂😂😂 I once reorganized it during a trip……. When I added an SUV Tent, I fell in love with my Element all over again. Getting ready to reconfigure for 2024 season.
Dude, the cubby and hole in the passenger rear door could be used for a composting toilet... Maybe make the hole a little bigger and have a cushioned toilet seat cover for comfort and sanitary purposes. Composting toilets don't stink if maintained properly.
Just measured from rear of tailgate to back of front passenger seat in my ‘08. The seat does not move all the way forward like in your ‘06. It is only 5’10”, not the 6’3” you enjoy. Maybe I can get another seat from an older Element that folds all the way forward. Not sure when this change was made by Honda.
Yeah fair question. If you make it slightly shorter then you lose width space. So I tried to strike a balance of sitting height but not sleeping on a cot size bed with the pup.
Thanks for the details! It might be interesting to see a video of you cooking from the inside-do you have a fan to aid in venting? Just considering I haven't seen a "That could be risky" comment yet.
To be honest I don’t cook inside very much at all. I will more in the winter. Most important is a carbon monoxide/dioxide detector. I don’t have a fan to aid the venting but have thought about it. The software I used is called SketchUp.
Accessing the spare tire is not impossibly but not easy. All my stuff is installed with zip ties and a couple screws. So it’s easy to remove for emergencies should I need the spare tire. The foam for my bed stays there and acts as the cushions when it is in couch mode.
Hey Sage, Your set-up looks awesome!! One of the best for a Element...I wish I was more mechanical to try this for mine. Safe travels ,stay safe and healthy. Jake 07 Element, Colorado.
Yeah that inner shelf can be tricky. I don’t have a pattern for it just yet. But you saw my other video that shows I how I made it. Hopefully that helps get you a starting point.
I am not sure if I have it or not. But honestly I don’t know sketch up very well so none of it was proportional or to scale. It was sort of just my way of visualizing the basic concept in a 3D space but it wasn’t actual plans for my build. If I’ve still got it you can have it. No need to buy it.
@@wildsage Thanks Sage. The only thing I might change is the bench height. It looks like you're pretty uncomfortable with your head hunched over. I like the reclining seat style at fifth element campers so I might try to make that happen. I'm also thinking about doing the GoalZero Yeti 1500 and hooking it up to my alternator so I don't need a solar panel and I might throw in a small Dometic CFX 35 fridge cooler behind the driver's seat if it fits. Other than that I love your build. If you're ever in Florida stop by my shop: www.vanmakers.com
Yeah everyone tells me I should have made the bench shorter but it’s basically as low as it can go before hitting the inner pocket and seat mount on the side of the element. So if it was lower it would be narrower which would make sleeping with a dog pretty uncomfortable. It would be sweet to have a cooler in there. I had cold storage in my first setup but it was so bulky and hard to deal with that I opted not to on subsequent builds.
@@wildsage Yah man - enjoy your videos too. I've toyed with a build-out, but am so linear in my thinking that I can't see things like you do. If you have any plans or schematics that I could incorporate, I'd love to have them. Peace - Vince
Good question. The bed/bench panels that flip on a hinge are more of a hassle than anticipated because of the long cushion You end up having to pull that up to move it and they dont work as easily. I removed some of those hinges and will just slide them in and out instead. Also I made another camper after this one that was a totally different style and like a few different things about that one. Check out that video too. One thing I liked about that one that I would add to this one is that the bed extension piece flips up and was connected rather than a loose piece. It ended up making a really good “lounge mode” when it was flipped up because you could use it as a backrest.
Thanks for this well made tour. I just bought an Element and never realized the possibilities for camping conversion. What do you do with the solar panel while driving? Where is it stored? Thx.
Where mostly do you set up? campsites, bureau of Land Management, rest areas, parking lots? just trying to get ideals I'm on the east coast and there's not much in the way of bureau Land Management. I like the ideal that it is not so much noticeable as a camping vehicle per se. Another question are you using a small Porta-Potty and what about showers?
I only do free camping. Sometimes that means stealth camping in a city but I try to go to national forest or blm land and do dispersed camping. I have no toilet in the element. I go outside or if I’m near a town I’ll go to o a grocery store or something. For showers I mostly use my gym membership.
Hi Sage! This set up looks great! I would love to knock out. a build like this in my Element. Do you have any measurements, or the sketch up design available?
I don’t do recipes very much. I always just wing it. But I like doing really simple one pan meals. Combine things like precooked rice, lentils or beans, veggies, and sausage. Season to taste.
One other question (thank you for replying). Where the bed surface meets the side of the car and goes over the metal mounting points for the back seats, did you do anything there to secure it, contour it, or just lay the wood overtop?
I love this! One question is what do you do for food storage? I did not see the reason for the Goal Zero....I love that you were able to do a bench, as I need that for work. wondering if I can pull it off. Also, do you have dimensions available? Thanks so much for sharing!
The bottom shelf is pantry and then for refrigerated type goods I just buy fresh or store at room temp. The goal Zero is for basic charging needs (phone, laptop, lights, camera batteries). I unfortunately don’t have exact dimensions. I had a rough plan and then measured as I went. I’m also not near to that vehicle at the moment so cannot measure for ya. I’ve measured some things for other people in the past and I think you might find some details in other comments 😊
Always enjoy your builds. As a fellow Element "camper" (not full time,) it's amazing how comfortable these small vehicles are. One question...any concerns about having stronger tie-downs versus zip ties, particularly on the one side? I've been rear-ended seven times (yep, and never my fault) and having my camping platform well secured was a priority because I didn't want things flying forward in case of another wreck at 40 MPH. Thanks again for sharing. Happy and safe travels.
I guess I haven’t thought much about how it would handle when getting read ended. I think for the shelf the bottom would stay put. Those screws are petty firmly in place. But the whole shelf might buckle and the top I’d imagine would shift more. Definitely something to think about.
This is a great build, iv been planning to buy an element myself, and slowly but surely be able to finally build my dream Camper. Do you mind sharing the measurements, dimension of your build. Thanks in advance!
Cushions - which foam did you choose, and how thick? Does the seam down the center become annoying? Battery - 1000 watt seems like a lot. Is that for running a refrigerator, or just to keep the computer and drone juiced up?
I chose the HD 36 foam. It’s not the densest because I found the fenders foams are a little too hard for me. I chose too dense of one on my first build. I haven’t really even noticed the seam down the middle but then again I’m a pretty agreeable sleeper. I don’t need a perfectly cushy bed. I admit the 1000 is kind of a bit much for my needs. I got a pro deal coupon and decided to go a little bit higher than what I actually need so I can scale up when my power demands get a little greater. For sure don’t need the whole battery now. It usually sits at 100% charge.
This looks incredible! I’m planning to do vanlIfe full time this year and would love this set up for my E. Could we see the plans? I know you said in an earlier comment that it’s not to scale but I am still extremely interested. Let me know if you want compensation 👌
thanks great. about to work on my 08 element. any changes suggested since this latest video? WHAT ELEC(?) COOLER DO YOU USE AND WHERE IS IT? DO YOU USE A BIKE RACK ON BACK DOOR? Jersey girl driving Rust-y (orange elem)
I actually gave this setup to my gf who had an element too and did a whole new setup that’s more optimized for shorter camping trips than full time living. I haven’t use a cooler in my setups for a few years now. I used to use a yeti style but it just took up too much room. But I will say that the little nook behind the passenger seat stays very cool so if I didn’t want something to get hot it could go under there. Just wouldn’t be ice cold.
It surprisingly didn’t do much to the mileage. Maybe 1-2 mpg less. The whole build was half inch ply which is way lighter than 3/4”. I think with that and all my stuff it was maybe a couple hundred pounds. So basically it was the same in regards to weight as carrying one passenger.
Hey Sage you’ve been an inspiration to pull the trigger on moving into my new element I purchased for this reason. Do you happen to have the blueprint for your cabinet and bed?
@@wildsage Thank you for the inspiration. Very seriously, I, and Im sure A LOT of people would pay good money to get a pdf of the exact dimensions and materials. PLEASE announce if you do that. I
Hey sage, I love this build. I’ve just started working on my first camper design for my element and was inspired by your bed platform extension. This is a dumb question but how were you able to fold your front passenger seat forward like that? Mine can slide back and forth and lean forward but won’t budge when it comes to getting it to lean towards the dash. If you have any tips I’d appreciate it, thanks!
Hey Isaac. I’m guessing you’ve got a 2007 or newer. That year they changed it so the seats don’t slide as far forward. My gf has a 2007 that I use now that line is totalled. I had to modify the setup so that my feet just stick through between the seats rather than a whole extension.
how many miles are you at? mine has a bit of a piston tick but has for years and it hasn't gotten any worse. just been taking care of it and maintaining it. doing tie rods now which is gonna be a pain cause the inner ones are too long for a tool.
Hey, great build Sage enjoyed the video it makes me want a Honda Element and I wish they would start making them again. How many miles do you have on yours and have you had any trouble? I hope you have a fire extinguisher cooking on a towel would concern me..:).
My Honda Element I purchased in 2004 and now almost at 200K best and only car I've ever purchased. It's my every day car and she runs great! NEVER have I ever had to do anything to it. as long as you do the maintenance, these cars will last for ever! =)
Great video and build! I have a question though, if you were to get a flat tire, would you be able to lift up the bed up and get to your spare tire and tools or is it more of a hassle?
Fair question. I would have to remove everything to access it. I’m formulating some alternatives to putting it there but for now it would be a major hassle to get a flat haha.
I really like your build, I would like to have a build made for my 06 Honda element is there a place where I can have something on that order of build made. If so can you send me that information I want to be able to keep it set up and ready to go if I can have the platform build I can work the rest out myself I'm a 73 yr old female but I can do something on my own. I live in Ga. If you know of anyone who might under take this challenge please send me their information thanks.
If you have some money in your budget I would go for Fifth Element Camping. They are a little on the pricey side but they make probably the best build out there for the element. It’s clean and quality and install and uninstalls in minutes. It isn’t a platform bed but it’s a really spacious design.
I can’t quite sit up straight but I can comfortably slouch. If you move the bed lower then it gets less wide because the wall of the element get narrower with the seat mounts. So I opted to make the height just above those seat mounts at the sacrifice of a full sit up position.
I want to build a bed bench like that, I am 6 ft tall and might have to lower the bed platform so I can sit upright when sitting on the bench. How tall are you?
I’m about 5’11”. The one thing to consider for this is that by reducing the height of the bed you also end up having to reduce the width and length of it. The width is reduced because mine is just above a spot where the element wall juts out more. So if you go any lower it’ll give you less horizontal space. The length is reduced because when you push the passenger seat forward, it leans at an angle. The lower you go the further back the seat will be at your bed height.
Not quite no. I tend to be a sloucher/recliner anyway though so it works. If you want to sit up all the way as a 6’ person I think your platform would have to be like 8-10” max off the floor of the element. The one I’m currently building is 12” and I still can’t sit upright and it doesn’t even have a cushion on it yet either 😭
@@wildsage yes I did some measurements this morning and 9 inches is the right height for me , if you actually put 1 element backseat in and turn it sideways it is pretty close to perfect and they are 8 inches in height. I am not going to have a cabinet system so I still have just enough room to straighten my legs while sitting on the bench. I plan to make my bench shorter than yours so I can recline my passenger seat down all the way and install a leaf over it to give me more leg room when in bed mode. After the bed is done I will be installing a 100watt ridged solar panel and a joy tutus fridge back there. Thanks for all the help and if you make it down to Florida give me a shoutout and we can meet up somewhere.
![Felix "Unfair" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Oswujxm2Ag0/mqdefault.jpg)
I am so impressed, Sage! It is hard to believe how small The Element is on the outside, but how big you have made it on the inside. The third time is definitely the charm! Your story telling, filming and writing skills are up there with the best. Not to mention the creative editing! Thank you so much for sharing this Elemental video.
Thanks Mitchell. Glad you like the video I during as well as the new build. Always great to hear from you! Hope you are staying safe and healthy!
@Sage Roddy Thank you so much, Sage! I can always count on you to have nice things to say. You are a really good man.
Thank you for that critical height detail of 6'3''/6'4'' at 11:30. Helps a bunch!
No worries. I figure that’s one of the few measurements that I should know. Tall people got it bad lol
Very nice. I like your thinking of keeping it as roomy and light as possible. The easier it is to build and maintain the better and it works. The more complicated something is the more things to go wrong and harder to repair.
Yeah totally.
Paint roof white and make the solar panel tilt so that you can have more power in winter months. Parking with the windshield facing east and one side of the vehicle be the "warm and dry side" is also wise. Anything heavy, like that battery, is better off on the floor... 23 + years off grid here.
Thanks for the tips. Not all of those will work in my situation but with a larger rig and more space they would be great. In such a tight space you gotta kind just make it fit.
♥️♥️This is by far the best Element build I’ve seen!!!♥️♥️ It’s been my plan, to move into my Element and travel
Thank you!
Very cool build out! I started one back in 2004 when I bought my Element but never finished. Well thought out and far better than the pvc pipe plan for a platform I was attempting.
Glad you like it!
Great to see this new version and changes. The peg board and slide out drawer is a good tip.
Thanks. Glad it was useful for ya.
Def the best conversion I have seen... yet. Peace and blessings from Cali.
Thank you 🙏🏻
I’ve had this idea of buying an element and building it to be an awesome camping vehicle. This makes me want to do it even more
Lots of good designs out there for them. Go fir it!
This build is insanely good. 👍👍
Awesome and simple! The slide you can refine with "Roller Ball Caster roller" or "Roller bearings" (Search both) HArbor Freight, Amazon, etc... You can counter sink them into your bench wood base so they don't take up space and the storage slide can ride on the ball bearing out for less friction! Not necessary for you, but cuts down if you decided to store something heavy.
Oh yeah for sure I could use those if my weight needs ever increased for that pullout. I intentionally chose the pegboard Masonite because it’s smooth and the holes would allow for it to not crate a suction to the bottom when trying to lift and pull out. Rollers would eliminate that problem too.
Definitely the best of dozens of Element builds I’ve seen on RUclips. This would make an amazing dorm room for my son as long as he chooses a school that doesn’t have extreme weather shifts. I’m already planning on giving him my ‘08 EX.
Thank you! I hope he enjoys the Element!
Epic getting ready to get a conversation on my Element. Great ideas to consider. Struggling with the Goal Zero purchase for power needs.
Dude totally agree. The only reason I got it was because I had a pro deal discount code. Otherwise it would have been way out of my price range.
You should get some wool socks and a OneWheel 😅
Wool socks can be worn multiple days in a row without stinking because they're naturally antimicrobial, and the OneWheel is the greatest thing on earth. With your lifestyle, the OneWheel could take you places you otherwise might not venture to.
I want a one wheel so bad! Not in my budget right now though.
Great efficiency! Thank u. I am tall… Sienna vans have hard tops that can be added- wondering if you have seen Elements with standup hard tops… not just roof tents.
Hope to see you in the outback! 2006 Blue Element
About to buy an element and your video is giving me tons of ideas. Thanks for making this!
Sweet man. Glad it was helpful.
Excellent upgrades Sage. I'm inspired to do something similar to my 2008 El. Sliding drawer under the bed is brilliant. Sadly 2008 passenger front seat does not till forward, die to airbags in the seat back. I may swap that seat for the older model tilting version. I have barely squeezed in a six foot long bed. Yay you for sharing the new improved lay out.
I have heard that about later models. That’s too bad. I’m sure there is a work around though. Maybe replacing the seats as you mentioned.
I think I’d cook on the rear slide out instead of inside.. love this setup ❤
Yeah most of the time that I was using this setup I cooked on the tailgate. But I wanted to make sure I had the option to cook inside in case I was rained out or something.
Instead if a sink......you can use a canning funnel to drain into a water jug: you can spit into it when you brush your teeth and get 2 collapsible basins [1 for washing dishes, etc. and 1 for 🧽 sponge baths, etc.] That way you save counter space.....you empty the basins into the funnel which is always there.
I would also get a collapsible toilet bucket for emergencies......they don't take up hardly any space when collapsed and can fit in the side pocket of your door.
My girlfriend uses a funnel in her van and we love it for all this reasons you mentioned.
Hi Sage! Love the various different ways you've built out your Element. I am in the process of researching ways to convert my '08 Element to a camper and I'm finding tons of info from your vids. Thanks so much for sharing. New Sub!
Awesome! Glad the videos could be useful. Feel free to reach out if you have any questions (I check Instagram more than youtube)
Great job.. best element camper video I've seen so far.. just bought one
Thanks man! Enjoy your E!
Great work with excellent improvements. Only thing I would probably add is a small 12V compressor fridge. Solar and Goal Zero should be enough to run it. Love our Element, we've owned it for ten years now.
just starting to set up my El. what cooler do you recommend and solar to go with it?
do you use a bike rack
Epic! Hopefully I can update my element like this before it gives out!
Do it!
I'm building one soon. Video up this month.... i like the sliding idea, but its too tall IMO. Mine is short and wide. With lots of storage and ill make some space for my cooler in the back window. Wish I could show some pictures
Yeah I was torn on height. I chose to go just about the seat mount so the bed could be a bit wider. The higher you make the bed platform the wider it can be but then the less comfortable it is sitting. Looking forward to seeing your setup!
I totally get it, I'm a little shorter so the low seat doesn't bother me too much. I just really like having vertical space. I do like the holes in your box.
Bro you killed it with this build
Thank you! I think I’m getting better with each new iteration 😂
Super creative use of space I love the bed box most. Keep up the great content 🤙🏼
Thanks man. Glad you enjoyed it!
Probably my favorite camper setup for an Element. Nice job! I will attempt to duplicate this with my 2008.
Thanks man! Good luck with your build!
love the new mods. So cleaver
Thank you!
Great build. I would lower it to be able to sit upright without bending over but other than that, it would be perfect for me.
I love this bed set up!
As an Element owner, also 2006, who camps, don’t we all constantly try to improve??😂😂😂😂 I once reorganized it during a trip……. When I added an SUV Tent, I fell in love with my Element all over again. Getting ready to reconfigure for 2024 season.
What’s an SUV TENT?
Dude, the cubby and hole in the passenger rear door could be used for a composting toilet... Maybe make the hole a little bigger and have a cushioned toilet seat cover for comfort and sanitary purposes. Composting toilets don't stink if maintained properly.
😎 Nice mod, Sage.
A friend made a version of your slat bed, however he used wider boards and that's my only complaint.
I would love a pull out shelf 😎
Yeah I’ve found that a larger number of small slats works better because then the gaps aren’t as big.
Love the pull out drawer idea ✌🏻
Yeah one of my favorite parts too.
Fantastic upgrades Sage!
Thanks josh. Are you still camping in yours?
@@wildsage On and off. Not as much as you! My offer still stands if you are ever in the Adirondacks again, let me know!
very efficient design for the element ...nice job!
Thank you!
Just measured from rear of tailgate to back of front passenger seat in my ‘08. The seat does not move all the way forward like in your ‘06. It is only 5’10”, not the 6’3” you enjoy. Maybe I can get another seat from an older Element that folds all the way forward. Not sure when this change was made by Honda.
Yeh I’ve heard that later year elements the seats don’t go as far forward. I think the cutoff was 2007.
I like your design the best, just wondering if making the bed a few inches shorter was a consideration it looks like your toping out when sitting
Yeah fair question. If you make it slightly shorter then you lose width space. So I tried to strike a balance of sitting height but not sleeping on a cot size bed with the pup.
@@wildsage I get it width because the farther down the wall you go the narrower the space .
EXCELLENT video and build. Thank you. Happy trails.
Glad it could be useful!
Thanks for the details! It might be interesting to see a video of you cooking from the inside-do you have a fan to aid in venting? Just considering I haven't seen a "That could be risky" comment yet.
To be honest I don’t cook inside very much at all. I will more in the winter. Most important is a carbon monoxide/dioxide detector. I don’t have a fan to aid the venting but have thought about it. The software I used is called SketchUp.
Good job...I didn't see how you access your spare tire nor where you store your foam for your bed..
Accessing the spare tire is not impossibly but not easy. All my stuff is installed with zip ties and a couple screws. So it’s easy to remove for emergencies should I need the spare tire. The foam for my bed stays there and acts as the cushions when it is in couch mode.
Awesome Build!
Thanks hank!
I love it! You got me thinking now. Great job, bro!
Always some improvements to make haha. Hope you’re well Fred. Come up to Oregon soon!
Hey Sage, Your set-up looks awesome!! One of the best for a Element...I wish I was more mechanical to try this for mine. Safe travels ,stay safe and healthy. Jake 07 Element, Colorado.
I’m sure you could work out a setup that works for ya. I don’t have that much experience either.
I would like shape info…….like a pattern. Great video….
Yeah that inner shelf can be tricky. I don’t have a pattern for it just yet. But you saw my other video that shows I how I made it. Hopefully that helps get you a starting point.
Love your build! Did you name your dog after the villain in The Burbs? Love the name.
No it actually means dog in Turkish!
Love this setup!
Thanks!
You should do sliding doors for those cubbies!
I’ve thought about it. Thought about some tambour doors.
Hi Sage! You're build is awesome. I'm planning something similar. Do you still have the sketchup file? Can I buy it from you?
I am not sure if I have it or not. But honestly I don’t know sketch up very well so none of it was proportional or to scale. It was sort of just my way of visualizing the basic concept in a 3D space but it wasn’t actual plans for my build. If I’ve still got it you can have it. No need to buy it.
@@wildsage Thanks Sage. The only thing I might change is the bench height. It looks like you're pretty uncomfortable with your head hunched over. I like the reclining seat style at fifth element campers so I might try to make that happen. I'm also thinking about doing the GoalZero Yeti 1500 and hooking it up to my alternator so I don't need a solar panel and I might throw in a small Dometic CFX 35 fridge cooler behind the driver's seat if it fits. Other than that I love your build. If you're ever in Florida stop by my shop: www.vanmakers.com
Yeah everyone tells me I should have made the bench shorter but it’s basically as low as it can go before hitting the inner pocket and seat mount on the side of the element. So if it was lower it would be narrower which would make sleeping with a dog pretty uncomfortable. It would be sweet to have a cooler in there. I had cold storage in my first setup but it was so bulky and hard to deal with that I opted not to on subsequent builds.
Hi, This is amazing!! Did you swap out your interior lights? I once killed my battery when a door was ajar with the dome lights on.
@@wildsage Yah man - enjoy your videos too. I've toyed with a build-out, but am so linear in my thinking that I can't see things like you do. If you have any plans or schematics that I could incorporate, I'd love to have them. Peace - Vince
this is awesome! 2+ years later, is there anything you would change?
Good question. The bed/bench panels that flip on a hinge are more of a hassle than anticipated because of the long cushion You end up having to pull that up to move it and they dont work as easily. I removed some of those hinges and will just slide them in and out instead. Also I made another camper after this one that was a totally different style and like a few different things about that one. Check out that video too. One thing I liked about that one that I would add to this one is that the bed extension piece flips up and was connected rather than a loose piece. It ended up making a really good “lounge mode” when it was flipped up because you could use it as a backrest.
that is really great use of space! I didn't see where you store the foam when not in a bed?
It turns into the backrest for the bench!
Thanks for this well made tour. I just bought an Element and never realized the possibilities for camping conversion. What do you do with the solar panel while driving? Where is it stored? Thx.
The solar panel is attached to the roof rack! 😃
Where mostly do you set up? campsites, bureau of Land Management, rest areas, parking lots? just trying to get ideals I'm on the east coast and there's not much in the way of bureau Land Management. I like the ideal that it is not so much noticeable as a camping vehicle per se.
Another question are you using a small Porta-Potty and what about showers?
I only do free camping. Sometimes that means stealth camping in a city but I try to go to national forest or blm land and do dispersed camping.
I have no toilet in the element. I go outside or if I’m near a town I’ll go to o a grocery store or something. For showers I mostly use my gym membership.
Hi Sage! This set up looks great! I would love to knock out. a build like this in my Element. Do you have any measurements, or the sketch up design available?
I second this.
What were some good recipes you had, that worked well on the Coleman stove and kept well in the car?
I don’t do recipes very much. I always just wing it. But I like doing really simple one pan meals. Combine things like precooked rice, lentils or beans, veggies, and sausage. Season to taste.
One other question (thank you for replying). Where the bed surface meets the side of the car and goes over the metal mounting points for the back seats, did you do anything there to secure it, contour it, or just lay the wood overtop?
@@CptRetro I contoured it to the side and attached it to the seat mount area with a couple zip ties.
Thank You!
I love your build! so glad I own an Element...
Glad you enjoyed it!
Great build Sage! Are your plans available?
Unfortunately I’m a terrible planner so it was half planned and half made up as I went haha
I love this! One question is what do you do for food storage? I did not see the reason for the Goal Zero....I love that you were able to do a bench, as I need that for work. wondering if I can pull it off. Also, do you have dimensions available? Thanks so much for sharing!
The bottom shelf is pantry and then for refrigerated type goods I just buy fresh or store at room temp. The goal Zero is for basic charging needs (phone, laptop, lights, camera batteries). I unfortunately don’t have exact dimensions. I had a rough plan and then measured as I went. I’m also not near to that vehicle at the moment so cannot measure for ya. I’ve measured some things for other people in the past and I think you might find some details in other comments 😊
Always enjoy your builds. As a fellow Element "camper" (not full time,) it's amazing how comfortable these small vehicles are. One question...any concerns about having stronger tie-downs versus zip ties, particularly on the one side? I've been rear-ended seven times (yep, and never my fault) and having my camping platform well secured was a priority because I didn't want things flying forward in case of another wreck at 40 MPH. Thanks again for sharing. Happy and safe travels.
I guess I haven’t thought much about how it would handle when getting read ended. I think for the shelf the bottom would stay put. Those screws are petty firmly in place. But the whole shelf might buckle and the top I’d imagine would shift more. Definitely something to think about.
@@wildsage I may just draw bad luck. I've even been rear-ended while riding in a taxi in a foreign country. (=
Also: What is the name of the software?
This is a great build, iv been planning to buy an element myself, and slowly but surely be able to finally build my dream
Camper. Do you mind sharing the measurements, dimension of your build.
Thanks in advance!
Thanks man. To be honest I don’t have the measurements really. I did a rough sketch and then kind of figured out dimensions as I went.
Cushions - which foam did you choose, and how thick? Does the seam down the center become annoying?
Battery - 1000 watt seems like a lot. Is that for running a refrigerator, or just to keep the computer and drone juiced up?
I chose the HD 36 foam. It’s not the densest because I found the fenders foams are a little too hard for me. I chose too dense of one on my first build. I haven’t really even noticed the seam down the middle but then again I’m a pretty agreeable sleeper. I don’t need a perfectly cushy bed.
I admit the 1000 is kind of a bit much for my needs. I got a pro deal coupon and decided to go a little bit higher than what I actually need so I can scale up when my power demands get a little greater. For sure don’t need the whole battery now. It usually sits at 100% charge.
Great build!
How did you build the slide out drawer! That is so cool!
It’s dead simple. Just some pegboard for the bottom and the a back wall made of plywood that pulle everything with it.
This looks incredible! I’m planning to do vanlIfe full time this year and would love this set up for my E. Could we see the plans? I know you said in an earlier comment that it’s not to scale but I am still extremely interested. Let me know if you want compensation 👌
The only plans are the CAD drawing that you see in the video.
thanks great. about to work on my 08 element.
any changes suggested since this latest video?
WHAT ELEC(?) COOLER DO YOU USE AND WHERE IS IT? DO YOU USE A BIKE RACK ON BACK DOOR?
Jersey girl driving Rust-y (orange elem)
I actually gave this setup to my gf who had an element too and did a whole new setup that’s more optimized for shorter camping trips than full time living. I haven’t use a cooler in my setups for a few years now. I used to use a yeti style but it just took up too much room. But I will say that the little nook behind the passenger seat stays very cool so if I didn’t want something to get hot it could go under there. Just wouldn’t be ice cold.
Are the latest plans available so I could have a carpenter build me one?
I didn’t really make plans for it. I hade some rough sketches and then built it from the rough sketch as I went.
You’re welcome to show it to a carpenter and let them use it for reference.
Nice shelving but I would imagine all that wood weight plus the weight of the items on the shelves has to drag your mileage down
It surprisingly didn’t do much to the mileage. Maybe 1-2 mpg less. The whole build was half inch ply which is way lighter than 3/4”. I think with that and all my stuff it was maybe a couple hundred pounds. So basically it was the same in regards to weight as carrying one passenger.
@@wildsage oh that’s cool
Kopek! You dog is named dog in Turkish, nice 😊
Love the video and your dog
well thought out, good job! Have any leaking from water following the wiring into the back of the Element?
Nope. I haven’t had any issues with it and have experienced some pretty heavy rain too.
@@wildsage thanks
nice Cattledog!
Thank you! She was a lab/cattle dog mix and I can’t think of a better combo. She passed away in February sadly.
this was amazing, i think i found what to copy for my mini van hahahahaha
Hope it works for ya!
Wondering if two people can lay/sleep in the back with your setup? Thank you.
It’s for sure possible. Cozy but possible.
How well do they know each other?
Hey Sage you’ve been an inspiration to pull the trigger on moving into my new element I purchased for this reason. Do you happen to have the blueprint for your cabinet and bed?
I do not unfortunately. I work better in the “make it up as you go along” format so I don’t have much of anything concrete.
@@wildsage Thank you for the inspiration. Very seriously, I, and Im sure A LOT of people would pay good money to get a pdf of the exact dimensions and materials. PLEASE announce if you do that. I
i have an idea for sliding doors on shelves in my honda element
That would be a good alternative to my bunjee system that doesn’t take up too much lateral space.
Now you need to help Cat finish her van so you can do a tour video of it, too!😉
Yeah I hope we can get it going soon! We have a shop to work at now so I think we can make some of the improvements she wants.
Hey sage, I love this build. I’ve just started working on my first camper design for my element and was inspired by your bed platform extension. This is a dumb question but how were you able to fold your front passenger seat forward like that? Mine can slide back and forth and lean forward but won’t budge when it comes to getting it to lean towards the dash. If you have any tips I’d appreciate it, thanks!
Hey Isaac. I’m guessing you’ve got a 2007 or newer. That year they changed it so the seats don’t slide as far forward. My gf has a 2007 that I use now that line is totalled. I had to modify the setup so that my feet just stick through between the seats rather than a whole extension.
Where do you put the spare tire? Since you can no longer acesss the normal tire and jack space
It’s still there. Just would take abo the minutes to clear everything out.
About ten*
Hi Sage & Kopek! I'll watch the video now>>>
Sage, where did you get the bed extension folding hinger? Thanks!
I got them from Amazon. Should be able to find them searching folding shelf bracket.
Awesome build. Thank you for sharing. New subscriber. Blessing to you.
Solid build! I'm inspired
Sweet! Glad it was helpful.
How sturdy would you say the side of the bed is where the pieces fold out onto the shelve? Would it fit comfortably two people?
Yeah I think it is plenty sturdy but the bed would be pretty cramped with two people I think.
how many miles are you at? mine has a bit of a piston tick but has for years and it hasn't gotten any worse. just been taking care of it and maintaining it. doing tie rods now which is gonna be a pain cause the inner ones are too long for a tool.
Mines at almost 250k!
Hey, great build Sage enjoyed the video it makes me want a Honda Element and I wish they would start making them again. How many miles do you have on yours and have you had any trouble? I hope you have a fire extinguisher cooking on a towel would concern me..:).
Mine has about 230k mi on it. I don’t cook with the towel there. I just have it there so it doesn’t rattle so mu during travel lol.
I believe they are coming back this coming year...
My Honda Element I purchased in 2004 and now almost at 200K best and only car I've ever purchased. It's my every day car and she runs great! NEVER have I ever had to do anything to it. as long as you do the maintenance, these cars will last for ever! =)
Cool. What size is the bed? Full?
Approximately yeah
Great video and build! I have a question though, if you were to get a flat tire, would you be able to lift up the bed up and get to your spare tire and tools or is it more of a hassle?
Fair question. I would have to remove everything to access it. I’m formulating some alternatives to putting it there but for now it would be a major hassle to get a flat haha.
I really like your build, I would like to have a build made for my 06 Honda element is there a place where I can have something on that order of build made. If so can you send me that information I want to be able to keep it set up and ready to go if I can have the platform build I can work the rest out myself I'm a 73 yr old female but I can do something on my own. I live in Ga. If you know of anyone who might under take this challenge please send me their information thanks.
If you have some money in your budget I would go for Fifth Element Camping. They are a little on the pricey side but they make probably the best build out there for the element. It’s clean and quality and install and uninstalls in minutes. It isn’t a platform bed but it’s a really spacious design.
@@wildsage Thanks I'll look up fifth element camping. Thanks for your reply.
How difficult would it be to change a tire if you needed to?
I can remove everything in about ten minutes. But I do have to take everything out to get to the spare.
how do you get to your spare tire if you needed it ?
Takes about ten minutes to get everything out.
Please - what year is your Element and which version ( 2wd / 4wd ? Ex ? ) thanks !
Hey it’s a 2006 2wd.
Great job!
Thank you!
Love it man!
Thank you so much!
Awesome build Sage! Question, when you have you bed I’m sitting bench mode, can you sit up straight? Also, how tall are you? Safe travels!
I can’t quite sit up straight but I can comfortably slouch. If you move the bed lower then it gets less wide because the wall of the element get narrower with the seat mounts. So I opted to make the height just above those seat mounts at the sacrifice of a full sit up position.
I want to build a bed bench like that, I am 6 ft tall and might have to lower the bed platform so I can sit upright when sitting on the bench. How tall are you?
I’m about 5’11”. The one thing to consider for this is that by reducing the height of the bed you also end up having to reduce the width and length of it. The width is reduced because mine is just above a spot where the element wall juts out more. So if you go any lower it’ll give you less horizontal space. The length is reduced because when you push the passenger seat forward, it leans at an angle. The lower you go the further back the seat will be at your bed height.
@@wildsage can you sit up straight while on the bench in your E?
Not quite no. I tend to be a sloucher/recliner anyway though so it works. If you want to sit up all the way as a 6’ person I think your platform would have to be like 8-10” max off the floor of the element. The one I’m currently building is 12” and I still can’t sit upright and it doesn’t even have a cushion on it yet either 😭
@@wildsage yes I did some measurements this morning and 9 inches is the right height for me , if you actually put 1 element backseat in and turn it sideways it is pretty close to perfect and they are 8 inches in height. I am not going to have a cabinet system so I still have just enough room to straighten my legs while sitting on the bench. I plan to make my bench shorter than yours so I can recline my passenger seat down all the way and install a leaf over it to give me more leg room when in bed mode. After the bed is done I will be installing a 100watt ridged solar panel and a joy tutus fridge back there. Thanks for all the help and if you make it down to Florida give me a shoutout and we can meet up somewhere.
Sage, what did you do with your back seats?
I have them stored away. I actually put them in last week for the first time in like four years. But just temporarily.
Great ideas..looks great thank you.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Very nice!
Thanks!