My wife and I have ,and still do, travel with a truck camper and 7x16 enclosed trailer combination that has taken us all across this great nation. We've been from coast to coast, border to border, boondocking with it most of the year and have not had any problems (although pretty close a few times - LOL) and it's only a 2wd ext. cab with an 8' bed. Some situations require you to think "outside the box" ....but that's half the fun ! We do have the truck camper and trailer both equipped with solar, have a homemade compost toilet,Berkey water filter, and solar oven that we have accumulated over the year's that makes boondocking so much easier. We make do with what we have and don't go in debt for anything ! Really enjoy your channel. Thanks
That sounds like you have room for some toys too if you like. It seems like we have the same approach to doing this and it works. We keep our home base too and go back there to regroup. I still need solar, but that's coming soon. Thanks for commenting Jeff!
Refreshing, glad I found you folks. I am 70 a disabled veteran, Had my own business where I shod draft horses for over 47 yrs. My wife passed away at age 57 from heavy smoking and although I have had partners and friends no one yet has replaced her. We started out with an old class A. A square box type, It was called a Concord. from the 70's bought it used in the late 80's. We had so much fun in that. Then a stint on motorcycles and we bought a 35 ft Jayco 5th wheel and a dual wheel ford pu long bed. At this time we both said we were semi-retired. We settled in North Carolina for a while but eventually went back home to northern Vermont. (close to the Canadian border). After Cindy passed away I bought a 27 ft 5th wheel and a 3/4 ton Ford pu. I sold our land and home in Vermont and headed to Texas. Stayed there 7 years. Sold the 5th wheel and bought a 27 ft travel trailer and a 2001 Ford short bed crew cab pu. I have now been in Florida going into my 3rd year. My brothers and sisters live with in a 45 mile radius of me on the Florida west coast, (I live outside Tampa in an RV resort. I have a fair social security and a decent VA disability check each month. I plan to travel in the next couple of years, not so much to see the country, but to visit long time friends all over the USA. I have no interest in boondocking and no interest in stealth as so many of the folks do today. I plan to find campgrounds, stay for a month or more to replenish my money, (I get two checks a month, every month deposited in my credit union) I spent traveling, and to see all that I care to see in that particular area. Then move on to visit someone else. I have been at this park now starting my 3rd year. The VA has been taking care of many of the ailments we all face as we get older. That brings up medical. I pay nothing because of my income level. Medicare and the VA cover it all, plus medication, eye care etc. 2012 while in Houston area the VA did open heart surgery on me and replaced my aorta valve. I'm lonely without Cindy, I have no children so my family fill my time when need be. I learned to do chainsaw carving and folks buy them , extra income when needed. I write poetry and short stories, I took 3 writing courses at Alvin Community College in Texas for my enjoyment. WHEW ! Look how long I have written. Your probably tired of reading about this old man. I'll come back another ti with tales of my youth, post Army discharge where I covered the country hopping freight trains and hitch-hiking all over. Or working on cattle ranch in Montana, bar tending in California, shoeing horses in the 1977 Rose Parade and more. Bye for now. Bruce Matthews Thonotosassa, Florida
Just discovered your channel, & it's very timely. We're gathering information for a retirement plan a couple years down the road, & your content has been very helpful. We've both camped all our lives, but nothing beyond a family tent & dining fly, so we're learning from the experience of others. So far, you guys are about as close to what we THINK we want as we've found so far. This is good stuff - keep it up. Thank you.
Welcome aboard! Please check out all of our videos, they go back as far as 2017 or so. We started out as a "pew-pew" channel but had to change. Thanks for subbing.
Northern Michigan here. We got a 6 x 12 cargo trailer to hall my Trike and I watch your videos and told my husband what to build inside. We Evan put a shower in it. We went out to Steamboat CO. Last year for a month to help my son that had a 5 knee operation and up to Marquette to take my other son to a ship he works on. It was the first weekend of C19 lock down. We only have 2 trips under our belt but boy do we have some exciting stories. Keep up the great videos hope to see you on the road some day. Mary & Joe Sullivan Grand Lake MI.
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I am going a similar route myself. I originally wanted a teardrop trailer to tow behind a sport compact car. I have a 1/2-ton truck now so I'm converting a 5' X 10' cargo trailer into a "1.5-person camper". My wife is 5' tall so she's the 1/2 person. Hee! Kidding. She can stand up in it, though. I can't, but I'm laying out the interior so that I can move about inside the trailer if it's raining or windy. Galley will be at the rear door, bunk will be forward. Keeping it relatively simple that way, but I have 420 watts PV fixed to the roof with another 100W to deploy when needed for a full 30 amps (12V solar) to the batteries. Have a 1500W inverter to power first a Keurig, then an 1100W toaster oven. Each appliance will run +/- 5 mins. Three 100Ah batts can handle that easily, with power left over for lights, fan, and device charging. blah blah blah... When I'm farther along I'll post a first vid ever on YT. Thanks for your efforts and again for your experience, Gonagain. See ya!
Yep for me my 6x10 cargo trailer conversion is the only way to go . I have mine set up fully contained Porta pot , 12volt frig. I have traveled thousands of miles with mine over 13 years and very happy. Best of luck to you thank you for the great videos .
I just got a 1997 suburban 4 whl dr 5.7l with a tow package. A few minor issues but basically great drive train. I'm 77 and want to live off the grid. So I enjoyed your videos thanks alot for the re inspirement, be safe !
So good to see you again. I finally sold my diesel Suburban, bought a Toy... 4Runner. It was our 3rd Burb, and we loved 'em all. Heading up to Idaho in a few weeks, then back down home to South Texas. 80* this afternoon, 68* last night. The kids are all in their 30s now, and we just don't need the extra space or fuel expense. Die $el is just rediculous now, and the veggie oil I used to run sometimes is too much trouble for this old guy. Aloha! Oh yeah, "tent camping" , as in backpacking,far away from highways, was always my preferred way, but the wife and kids always preferred the Burb or a m/hotel.
I have purchased a 5x8 enclosed trailer for hauling antique Engines to shows.once unloaded it becomes home with all of the things I need inside.watching your videos I see things that I can do to improve my home on wheels .thank you for providing the information and ideas ..
I appreciate showing what kind of trails you can take the trailer on. There are lots of videos on converting trailers but not much on where they can be taken.
Liked this video, especially going on smaller roads, We took a trip along the St Lawrence river in Canada one Summer and we still talk about that trip. We took the old highway that are now secondary roads. Enjoy your camping, We have to wait for the Summer month.
That sounds like a great trip along the St Lawrence river. We always try to stick to the old highways and stay off the well beaten paths. Hope you get out soon.
I have always been an avid backpacker and tent camper. I have always called factory made campers GWW. They are a Great White Waste of natural resources and they always herd together in RV Parks. Not for me! I just turned 71 and decided like you that if I wanted my wife to travel with me and if I wanted to be able to blend in to the small towns and the back country I might enjoy a little more comfort. Currently I am building out a 6x12 Cargo Camper that is pretty basic but has what I need for long term 2-3 months or can be used short term and can be used to Stealth camp in Suburban areas and remote off grid as well. The rear barn doors can be held in place for a sprayer shower along with shower curtain and tarp and pvc pipe. I live in NC and the summers are brutally hot and humid. I decided to build a wall with window, 6000 BTU AC, and 2 foot wide door 16 inches inside the barn doors. If it gets too hot I can run the 600 watt AC on a drop cord with shore power or by generator. The 16 inch space inside the back doors is the garage and is perfect for spare tire, jack, Leveling equipment, generator and more. Basic kitchen in front with a 12 V DC and 115V AC dorm fridge etc in the front nose. Your videos have helped inspire me and helped with the design. PS. I bring my tent, backpack, sleeping pad as well. Sometimes my cargo Camper becomes my Base Camp. Thanks again!
We have a 2015 Ram Laramie Crew Cab and pull a 7 x12 v-nose single axle cargo trailer all aluminum made by R & R Trailers in Three Rivers, Michigan. Ordered it insulated, stabilizer jacks, rv steps, rv door with window, screen door, window on each side, awning, a/c, finished interior. I wired it and a friend built a kitchen cabinets, sink in nose. It was also painted to match truck. We live I. PA and took a 3 1/2 week trip ladies summer to Montana, Utah & Wyoming. We have a queen bed and a ramp door in back. Love it. Oh, My last rv was a Airstream!
That sounds like a very nice trailer, about the right size too. The nice thing about a seven foot wide model is that the bed can go across the back and take up less space. Thanks for commenting Daniel!
That's a great setup and very versatile. We are retired and worked our way up from tents to a 5th wheel. We enjoy travel camping and staying in boondocking areas. A Class B is not for everyone but meets our needs very well.
Thank you Mr & Mrs Goagain for sharing your life experiences and wisdom on exploring this great country. I am an expat Aussie who hopes to one day do the same as you when I'm done with my work life. Just letting you know that all the time and effort you two put into producing and posting your vids is very much appreciated. It does and can have a prefound effect on those of us that are getting close to retirement. I wish you both safe travels!
We have had tents, popups, class c, big class a, now I have a box van that I am building out the way I want it, I love it, its economical, sturdy stealth and goes almost anywhere.
I love the story. I did the same thing 20 years ago. I built an off-road cart for my then 10-11 year old boys. Built the Trailer to haul it then a few years later I put a roof on it and turned it into a camping trailer. The FIRST thing I put in was a Hot water heater, stainless steel sink (with a coutertop) and a outdoor shower . 5' x 10 ft.. Then the most comfortable matress/bed I've ever slept on. The only thing missing was a bathroom. Yeah, needs to be 14'.
I just bought a new 5x10 trailer and have started my build. I built out a cargo van but someone saw it when I went to Quartszite last year and made me an offer to good to refuse. Your videos inspired me to go with a trailer this time. Thanks for your videos.
We are wired so similarly that we would get along perfectly (or not at all). :-) I am with you 100% on theory and execution! I've been down the tent->truck camper->popup->hybrid->monster 32-footer and now back to quick-up tent pending funds for a 6x10 or 6x12. Keep it up!
Been camping in all kinds of "rigs". Current favorite is a Chevy Cheyenne standard cab with an A.R.E. Deluxe Commercial Unit. Both sides open up with bug screens. 200 watt solar panels on top. (You can't see them unless you climb up on something.) It is just me, so all I have is a simple cot, foam pad and sleeping bag. I use a garden sprayer, painted black, for my shower. There are 2 6v. batteries in a box where the passenger seat was and a Koolatron in that floor area. (Keeps my beer cold) Latest trip was to the Grand Canyon and Carlsbad Caverns. I play jaw harp, and someone called me "the Wandering Harpist". Love your videos and am subbed.😁
I've been binge watching your many videos today. First off, thanks for putting these together, for all of us less knowledgeable on Cargo Camping. We have a 7'X14' double axle Wells Cargo V-nose trailer. I have been working on for about the last 9 months. It's almost done, or as you have pointed out, they are never really all done! I am impressed with you and your wife getting out away from the cities and exploring our great country. I hope to follow your lead and example. Woody Collette, Midway, Utah
Woody, you're starting out in the right state to explore because Utah is incredible! We spend time there every year. My daughter has a 7x14 and it's a great size for getting in all the essentials without being too big at the same time. If I was ever to go bigger that would be it.
We have traveled like you, a small utility trailer and tow vehicle... it is so liberating to just go where ever you please. You guys always make me smile, I really love your content and video quality! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your lives with us! If you ever make it West past Yellowstone Park, I would love to cook you guys a hot meal and give you some great camping spot ideas around Idaho! Keep up the great work, I can't wait to see where you go next and what you'll get up to.
We tent camped for many years on our Harley. Then we bought a trailer to pull behind the Harley to take more comfortable things like a queen air bed etc. Now we have a 30’ 5th wheel pulling a trailer with the Harley or SxS. Now we can winter in Arizona comfortably 🌵😁
You and your wife sound so much like us. We have done the whole travel trailer bit too, and I agree with you that it limits the places you can explore. We now travel in our Ford F-150 and we have mounted a Tepui rooftop tent over the bed of our truck. We keep all valuables inside the cab of the truck and general camping gear in the truck bed. Anywhere I can park the truck, we can camp. Tent is a good six feet off the ground so it stays nice and clean, no bugs crawling in either. And with a built in queen size memory foam mattress, we sleep like babies. Sets up and takes down in 5 minutes either way. Check out rooftop tents on line and you'll get a better idea of what I'm talking about. Happy camping. Hope we run into you two one day and we can crack a cold one or two and swap stories. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦🍻
We are familiar with the roof top tents and watch a couple of channels that feature them. They look like a great way to travel. If you see us on the road please come on over and introduce yourselves.
We have a Ford Transit Van and a 6x10 Cargo Trailer like yours. We don’t always take the trailer, just depends on the trip. Our trailer has a kitchen setup. We call it the chuck wagon. It also carries all our extra stuff like extra water and propane. It also becomes the bathroom and shower room. We have tried them all just like you. Two truck campers, a 5th wheel trailer, two class “A” motor homes and now a van with a trailer. We don’t do campgrounds unless forced to because of weather etc. Boondocking is our favorite. We are pretty much self contained with 300 watts of solar. The van is used as an every day vehicle that is always loaded with food and clothes. We can go anywhere at anytime. Just a quick stop for veggies and a little gas. After 30 years of camping we have decided that the simpler the better. All RVs have constant problems and are money pits.
I've had my small campervan for almost 5 years, it's great, has an oven, sink, drainer, fridge, shower and two captains chairs (the two front seats swivel) but, last summer I purchased a 9'x5'x 6' High, fold up insulated hard top and sides caravan/trailer. I'll be selling the van shortly. I don't need to be driving a van around 95% of the time when I'm not camping. Unhitching a trailer and having full use of a car will be a nice change, when I need to change my car, I'll still have my little home on wheels. I got it for a Good price second hand and will be doing my own customised fit out, that shall be fun. My van has an inside living space of 12'x5'x6'2" High, when I close it off to 6'4"x5' feet on winter nights; that's my favourite because it's so cosy. Small spaces are cosy and easy to heat, if I lived in a hot sunny climate, I'd be thinking differently. Your videos have given me some needed direction and inspiration, thanks to both of you 👍
Thanks for sharing your story. Sounds like you have a fun project ahead of you. We do like that we can unhitch and go gallivanting and come back to our "home".
I have watched dozens of RV camping videos and you are the first one to mention Least Heat Moon's "Blue Highways." I was required to read the book in a sociology class almost 40 years ago and to this day I remember it; sounds the perfect way to travel and meet people. I also appreciate the information and easy going style of your videos and becoming a fan!
Thank you! Yes, I really related to Least Heat Moon's thoughts on travel and took it to heart. Each place we visit is about those who live there and the history. You don't get that when you travel the freeways.
I enjoy your videos. We live in South Carolina but have made several trips out west. We love doing that and love camping in places like y'all camp . I noticed that the last time we ventured out west we had many more instances of feeling uneasy about random passers by. Safety became a concern but won't stop us. I liked your video addressing safety. Our best setup that worked really well for us is a small pop-up camper that is equipped with heat and air and a 2002 Chevy pick-up outfitted with a tow-haul package. (Not really needed for the pop-up). The truck has a tool box; good for storage, and we heavily chain a generator to the truck bed for use in wilderness areas. Only one con: we are getting older. The pop-up is easy enough to set up but you have to get on your knees to reach into the small storage areas, hence, we must keep everything stored high in a box. Problem solved.
I sympathize with the getting older part and not being able to get at things as easily any more. Good idea to keep your generator chained up. Linda mentioned to me the other day "Would people set their expensive generator out on their front lawn overnight and think it was safe? Why do they leave them out in camp?" Thank you for stopping by Shirley!
We use a Tent trailer- we have had 3 different so far. Lite weight and pull easily. They are not much good at Walmart, but that’s not our style. Currently we have a Fleetwood evaluation E2. There’s a deck on front for the 4-wheeler. Heater, frig, shower & toilet, stove, awning. Let’s go camping!
I think we have a similar idea as far as RV travel. I was a tent camper all my life. My vehicle was a ford hi-top conversation van. The rear seat could be used as a bed and we used that in cold or very wet weather. I bought that van new and it served my family well for 18 years. Now I retired and bought my first RV. I searched for months until I found what I was looking for. It had to be small enough to be pulled by any car yet have all the comforts of a large RV. I wanted to stay under 2000 lbs. I found what I was looking for in a Falcon 14 LT. It comes in at 1600lbs. It’s 14 Feet long to the end of the hitch. It has big over sized tires and I can move the whole rig around if I had to. It has an enclosed toilet with shower. It has a fully equipped kitchen with 3 way refrigerator. A large dinette that coverts to a large bed. Heat and air conditioning, stereo, TV. 18 gal of fresh and a combo waste tank. My tow vehicle is a ford transit connect with plenty of storage. I take along a Westinghouse 2500 watt generator and it can run the 13,500 btu Air conditioner. I was completely comfortable in 105 degree heat. I like the fact that I can walk around in this thing unlike the clam style campers. I feel smaller is sometimes better. I can pull off the road anywhere and get a good nights sleep. I can’t off road like you do but I fit into places a large RV can’t. One good suggestion for you is to get a pop out bed that can be installed on the side of your trailer. I’v seen cargo trailers with them already built in. You could sleep and not have to take your 4 wheeler out. Plus it has screens and would be cooler.
I like all forms of travel, from a backpack, to my adventure motorcycle, to my truck and trailer. Like you we’ve had several rigs ranging from a tent to a class c motor home. The one that works the best for both my wife and I is our current 6x12 cargo trailer that I built out myself. We’ve been using it for almost 6 years now, having put probably 30,000 miles and 120+ nights in it. I’m currently planning a new build, but it will still be a 6x12, just a little different layout using what I’ve learned over the years.
These trailers are hard to beat. We think of building another one, but this current one is working out so well that we keep putting it off. Thanks for watching Douglas!
We live full time in our 42 foot motor home. We will do some boon docking, but it will never go to some of the places you can reach. I have enjoyed your videos about how your trailer is put together.
Linda and I see the big beautiful motor homes go by us on the highway and sometimes we think "Yeah, we could get used to that!" Thanks for watching Glen!
Love this. We are freshly retired and in Montana. So we are still in the car and tent phase. But with a blow up mattress. We have been considering a cargo trailer build out.. many times. So great to see what you all are doing here. We have been looking at Teardrops very seriously. Used since they are so darn expensive.
You can really do a lot with a cargo trailer and they come in many different sizes. Start out with a couple of cots and go from there, making it as simple or as fancy as you like. Thanks for watching!
I thank you guys for your wisdom on camping out. I'm going to do the same thing when I get 65. But you don't know what to buy and we get that wisdom from the two of you thank you. Love the videos keep it up. Danny coffey I'm in farmersville California next to Visalia California.
Thank you for watching Danny! I'm working on a video about what makes the cargo trailers such a great choice. Stay tuned and it will be out next week sometime.
I really enjoyed this video and the background on your camper selection. I recently obtained a 6x14 toy hauler and I have really enjoyed your documenting the build of your trailer. For me, I like the simpler is better approach. I am planning to implement several of your ideas into my camper - so thanks for sharing
That's a nice size for a cargo trailer. At 14' you should have enough room in front of your toys for a bathroom that you can get to while you're traveling if you like. Thanks for watching Robert.
Thanks for all the good information on the different types of camping/RVing. I wasn't aware of all the trade-offs until listening to this video. Personally I have a class B, Winnebago Travato. I love it. It has everything except excess space. Plenty of headroom. It has a TRUMA-Combi Space heater/water heater. I don't think I could say enough good things about this unit. It has electric heating elements or it will run on propane. 95% efficient. Also, the Pro master 1 ton chassis that it's on delivers 16 miles per gallon/highway on regular gasoline. I modify the ride by putting in heavy duty rear anti-sway bars, and sumo springs front and rear. High top vans are obviously top-heavy. This mod really made a difference!
"Blue Highways." One of my all time favorite books. You are the first person that I have come across, other than myself, that has read it. We have always tried to be the travelers, not the tourist. Right now we're in between camping set ups. I have been using tents and running around in a '94 Jeep Cherokee. Some times with a 6X4 open utility trailer. My wife doesn't really care for tent camping so that was my do all outfit for years. Exploring , hunting, and fishing. We now have a 2018 diesel Colorado crew cab with a high topper to pull a small camp trailer. Something less than 18 ft. In the last few years there has been an increase in the number of trailers this size. Many are built for off pavement use. So now we're looking at whats out there and find something we can both live with. Doesn't need to be new.
You seem to have the right idea. When we started, small trailers were hard to find and were expensive, even old used ones. I like that diesel Colorado.
Thanks for watching Jeff. There's not too much inside because we still haul our 4 wheeler around sometimes, but you can see it here if you like: ruclips.net/video/YIBRK3O8MCY/видео.html
Cheers mate! Another awesome video and learning experience from you two. Thanks for sharing. This is one reason to go smaller rig for beautiful sceneies that are very well hidden like a gem. Only the one who dares with smaller rig can enjoy its allure... Cheers and happy winter travels!
I’ve been waiting to learn some of your history. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. Sometimes the most exciting part of the “trip” is the planning and getting equipment ready. We leave for the Red River, NM area in our Jeep tomorrow. Have a great week.
I just bought a truck and camper. It is my first RV and I am a solo traveller. I did need room for friends and grandchildren on occasion so I needed a safe place for them to travel. A truck seemed much safer than a class C so I went with that. Looking forward to the road. Plan to start out in March and become permanent.
Good for you Janice, you must be excited to get going. My advice is that you don't set up an itinerary at all. Just take it one day at a time and enjoy the journey.
We have a one ton dodge diesel with a camper on it with indoor potty, ran into one too many bears. It is a 4x4. We also sometimes take our A TV ' S with us and when we do we have a small car trailer that haul them just fine. Living the dream in Montana too.
thankyou much for your kind info. I am thinking of venturing for such a trip exploring National, state Parks, etc. All in a Chevy Trax, 4 cyl, (AWD) with my dog. Obviously I will have to travel light, but really intend to sleep inside and carry just a cargo tote on my roof rack. This will be a challenge in simplicity. Wanted such a car for the lower investment and decent gas mileage. Looking forward to learning more from your site. God bless you both
Hi Kathleen. You can have a great trip traveling the way you've described and it's been done by others successfully too. Maybe we'll see you on the road sometime! Come over and say hi.
When me and my wife traveled across the country in our Hundai pulling a mini camper taught us alot about traveling.Even though we were in a small rig we still were very limited to where we could camp.We figured out the National parks are wonderful but we would much rather be boondocking.
We travel in a small pickup or SUV with an open 4x8 utility trailer that holds out supplies, and we set up a 10x12 tent, with a 10x10 awning that we enclose with tarps. We mostly camp in national forests in unimproved sites where it's free.
We started tent camping in the early 70's. Spent our honeymoon in a Camel 8x10 canvas is St Augustine. Woke the first morning to a big black thunder head cloud coming at our front door. I rushed to add six more tiedowns to the existing eight the tent had. We closed the flaps on the two "windows" and the front door and the wind picked up. Not sure how much wind there was but the wind blew under the tent to where it was like a inflated mattress. I laid stretched out, as did my wife, and eventually the wind died and we were still in place. We did tent camping with kids and all for many years, before buying the Shasta. The beginning, if you can live thru that, you can live thru anything.
Everyone should own a Corvette once in their life, and once is enough. The only trailer you didn't mention was a tent trailer. I bought one with a shower stall that folded into the ceiling. After you figured it out it was still a 30 minute setup and 20 minute takedown. Told my wife I would rather sleep in the bed of my truck than put that darn thing up!
Thanks for a video ! I’m new to your channel but did the “Like and Subscribe” so I’ll be following your stories from now on. I’m new to RV living and just purchased my first RV - my 36’ retirement plan. Working for another year and just moved into it to learn what I need to know before setting off on “the life.” I’d never attempt to take my rig where you go with ease - way too big. And as a solo woman, I’ll probably stay in less secluded spaces for a while. I’m interested in the book you mentioned because I plan to make a similar trip as my maiden voyage and first RV adventure. When I was little, and before the interstate highway system opened, my family in Texas would drive to PA every summer to visit my mother’s family. We went through small-town America, stayed in locally-owned motels, and ate in family-owned diners. It was great and all my memories of those trips are some of my happiest times as a little girl. After the interstate highways opened, everything changed. All the hotel chains and burger joints replaced our old trip - but the new highways took a full day off the trip. From 3 days on the road to 2 days-my Dad was in heaven. I want to re-trace that old trip, where you really saw the country, met the people, slowed down and enjoyed it all. I can’t wait. Thanks again-I’ll be watching!
Gonagain....Thank You for the link. I wanted my wife to see this as well. We now have a older 19' 5th wheel that we enjoy. but crave the remote areas as yourself. So the wife and I have much to discuss and talk about. We both enjoy your videos there very informative and thought provoking. Thank You again. David J
Plan to hit the road in 45 days or so. Wanted to build out a cargo trailer like yours; but, ran out of time. Two days ago, I bought a used 12 foot "Freeport" trailer. Self contained with furnace, A/C, fridge & freezer, shower & toilet. Not what I wanted; but, it will do for now. Small / designed for just two people; so, just fine for an old guy & his dog (who loves it!). Backpacking days are over......
My backpacking days are over too, but there's still lots of trouble that we can get into! Sounds like your 12 foot Freeport trailer will work out fine. Thanks for watching another one of my videos J D!
We have now camped in 3 different rigs plus the early days of tent camping.I hope that the cargo trailer conversion works for us because I'm ready to use a rig that works better for all of us.We plan on doing a 7x14 with twin bunks on each side us and our 2 granddaughters
Nice rig me and my wife have a 2016 popup camper we love it here in AZ there is a lot of off the grid camping we go every weekend nothing better than to get away from people happy trails
A long time ago my wife and three kids would travel "blue roads". The baby would sleep with mom on the back seat. The middle kid would sleep on the rear deck above mom and baby. The oldest kid would sleep on the floor in front of the rear seat where I had filled blankets to make it even. I slept on the front seat. We drove many miles with diapers hanging from the rear view mirror. We did this until kids would all start to run in different directions. Then we started staying home or going to campground destinations. Even now, we still use blue roads for day trips. our kids would run like crazy to a hotel and swimming pool for a weekend. The biggest pride we had was when one of the grandkids and their baby came by. They were doing a blue road trip, that they had heard in family stories, and on the mirror was a real cloth diaper. The world will be just fine.
We started out in a tent, then to a travel trailer, then to a fifth wheel. Now we are trailerless and thinking about going back to something small. Thanks for the advice.
Enjoyed your video, and I don’t have a favorite way of traveling yet. I retired about a year and 5 months ago, and spend a lot of time on RUclips looking at camping trailer options.i have two young grandsons I want to take out and explore the good old outdoors, and make memories! Happy trails to you both!
Congratulations on your retirement Ron! Just my personal opinion; don't go too big, try to keep it as small as possible yet still have the amenities you want. When it comes to trailers, the reason we chose a converted cargo trailer is that they are all welded and won't come apart at the seams when you drive them over uneven roads. There are companies that custom build them for you or, if you want a regular trailer you should look at those made by Outdoor RV and Artic Fox. They're built to stand up to some abuse. You can find great deals on them used too. Thank you for watching our video!
First time watching your videos, 2nd video. Very enjoyable, entertaining and relaxing with some good advise. I mainly do tent camping in the California deserts and have been thinking about set up like yours. Likes for sharing.... happy trails
Enjoyed the video. I've owned and traveled in everything from car, truck, motorcycle, Jeep, van, etc. But my favorite of all time (so far) was my '71 VW camper van. It was under powered, with no A/C but I ventured over most of North America in that thing! I even put a cassette porta potty in it. I'd buy a new VW camper today if Volkswagen would start exporting them to the USA again. They stopped in 2003. I'm currently traveling in a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. It's smaller than what I'm used to but I once did a lot of backpacking so minimalism is not foreign concept to me. And so far, the Jeep has taken me everywhere I want to go.
We have a similar set up as yours, that being said i was excited to come across your videos. Unfortunately we only get to use it maybe a couple times a year. a younger family with two daughters still in school. trailer is 8.5x20 Wife sleeps on a cot, kids and myself on the floor, i did install a shower (best part)
The first time I ever noticed a cargo trailer being used for camping belonged to a family like yours and was a similar size. I watched them set up next to us (and our tent) and the light went on!
A Casita Independence might suit you perfectly -- inside bathroom, twin beds, rugged construction. Maybe just need to put a lift and shocks on it and it should be all you need.
Thanks, I am learning alot from your experience. I have a Aliner and like it alot. Tows good, lots of room. But I would like something where I could just pull over at a rest stop or Walmart and open the trailer door and go inside without any setup.
That's the advantage this trailer has (and one that Linda insists on) in that we are able to pull over and access it at any time. The extra windage costs us a little on gas mileage, but it's worth it for the convenience.
My second time watching this and have been reThinking my approach to the bugout/camping / set up and you two have helped me in deciding on a small-med. cargo trailer (C T Camper) instead of a truck camper or a campervan. Thanks and keep up the good adventure . H. Lee Dye
It took us awhile to get to this little trailer and we still think it's the best option for us. Good luck! By the way, we just did a video "Bugging Out On A Budget" where I talk about the trailer in more detail.
Great vid explaining your progression into what I would agree is one of the Best ways to explore the backroads and back country while still having some comfort. My very similar setup is a 1994 4X4 6.5 diesel suburban and a 6X12 cargo trailer that triple purposes as my dualsport motorcycle hauler and camper as well as my work trailer. It's hard to beat your setup for versatility and comfort! The SUV and trailer setup allows you to haul lots of comfort when you want to but also allows you to simplify and take just the SUV into the deep backcountry and sleep in it in a pinch. Only downside I've found is mpgs but that's why I've got my bike so I can explore even further on it with much less comfort of course.
It's a great combination for sure. We constantly think about other ways of traveling and exploring, but it always comes back to this being what's right for us. It just works so well! Thanks for watching Sean!
My 2015 Prius. A 6' space to stretch out, climate control uses 50 cents per night. The electric /gas 89 octane combo engine kicks on for 10 min an hour over (more or less) an 8 hour sleep to keep the inside as needed -warm or cool according to your setting. I have a carbon monoxide detector for safety. The Prius comes with 2 each USB and 12 volt charge ports for technology. I also carry a solar flash light that can charge my phone. I have a small 12 volt cooler. And an insulated box made of silver bubble wrap to place at the passenger foot space that the air conditioner keeps cool as I travel. I also have a small electric ice maker. My memory foam twin mattress is very comfortable. A full memory foam would fit as well, but I like cargo space. There is a vent inside for the electric battery beside the passenger side door back seat that has to be kept clear for air to the battery. Braking charges the main battery while driving. For toileting a short or full size bucket with a bag and screw on lid works well. I place black custom -fit covers into the glass spaces for privacy. With the Toyota hybrid engine I get 50 miles per gallon. It is low to the ground so camping spots are according to that access requirement.
T CR, there are a LOT of people that would love to see how you did all of this. I've seen other folks traveling an sleeping in a Prius (they're amazingly roomy) but none that I know of are doing it quite like you are. Please do a video showing what you've done, put it up on your channel and then tell me about it if you would be so kind.
"0 dark 30 with the bears" 😂 good one! I'm looking to get a cargo trailer, probably bigger then yours. Am getting ready to start my adventure within the year. Safe travels. ✌
@@gonagain I'm binge watching your videos. Just found your channel yesterday & boy have you given me a lot of useful info! Thanks so much, greatly appreciated. 💖✌
This is September 2020 I am building out my own 6X10 cargo trailer using some of your inspiration. However, I plan on living in mine, full time. Do hope to see u around sometime.
Thanks for explaining your set up. Makes sense. I’d rather travel the exact same way as you because I don’t like the restrictions of a hotel. But I must have a bathroom for the Mrs. Many thanks.
Thanks for watching Thomas. We just use a sawdust (composting) type toilet that we built from a five gallon bucket. Not even near perfect, but it doesn't smell and it's easy to maintain.
We had a 13ft. Escape trailer for 11 years. Now we have a 17ft Nest, airstream fiberglass to have A little more space. Would love to do some boondocking. We need to work on that
I like your channel! I'm on the east coast, so options are different here. And not retired. We started with a Casita trailer...then bought a small Runaway (squaredrop), then a bigger Runaway. We also have an old Dodge Roadtrek B. So we have changed our style over the years as well. Our problem is that we haven't gotten rid of anything yet! I believe we will sell the Casita and the small Runaway and we will have what are (for us) the two best options. For now. As you know things change....
![FNAF vs TF2 - Episode 2 [SFM]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/z5b3V2-VLb0/mqdefault.jpg)
My wife and I have ,and still do, travel with a truck camper and 7x16 enclosed trailer combination that has taken us all across this great nation. We've been from coast to coast, border to border, boondocking with it most of the year and have not had any problems (although pretty close a few times - LOL) and it's only a 2wd ext. cab with an 8' bed. Some situations require you to think "outside the box" ....but that's half the fun ! We do have the truck camper and trailer both equipped with solar, have a homemade compost toilet,Berkey water filter, and solar oven that we have accumulated over the year's that makes boondocking so much easier. We make do with what we have and don't go in debt for anything !
Really enjoy your channel. Thanks
That sounds like you have room for some toys too if you like. It seems like we have the same approach to doing this and it works. We keep our home base too and go back there to regroup. I still need solar, but that's coming soon. Thanks for commenting Jeff!
Refreshing, glad I found you folks. I am 70 a disabled veteran, Had my own business where I shod draft horses for over 47 yrs. My wife passed away at age 57 from heavy smoking and although I have had partners and friends no one yet has replaced her. We started out with an old class A. A square box type, It was called a Concord. from the 70's bought it used in the late 80's. We had so much fun in that. Then a stint on motorcycles and we bought a 35 ft Jayco 5th wheel and a dual wheel ford pu long bed. At this time we both said we were semi-retired. We settled in North Carolina for a while but eventually went back home to northern Vermont. (close to the Canadian border). After Cindy passed away I bought a 27 ft 5th wheel and a 3/4 ton Ford pu. I sold our land and home in Vermont and headed to Texas. Stayed there 7 years. Sold the 5th wheel and bought a 27 ft travel trailer and a 2001 Ford short bed crew cab pu. I have now been in Florida going into my 3rd year. My brothers and sisters live with in a 45 mile radius of me on the Florida west coast, (I live outside Tampa in an RV resort. I have a fair social security and a decent VA disability check each month. I plan to travel in the next couple of years, not so much to see the country, but to visit long time friends all over the USA. I have no interest in boondocking and no interest in stealth as so many of the folks do today. I plan to find campgrounds, stay for a month or more to replenish my money, (I get two checks a month, every month deposited in my credit union) I spent traveling, and to see all that I care to see in that particular area. Then move on to visit someone else. I have been at this park now starting my 3rd year. The VA has been taking care of many of the ailments we all face as we get older. That brings up medical. I pay nothing because of my income level. Medicare and the VA cover it all, plus medication, eye care etc. 2012 while in Houston area the VA did open heart surgery on me and replaced my aorta valve. I'm lonely without Cindy, I have no children so my family fill my time when need be. I learned to do chainsaw carving and folks buy them , extra income when needed. I write poetry and short stories, I took 3 writing courses at Alvin Community College in Texas for my enjoyment. WHEW ! Look how long I have written. Your probably tired of reading about this old man. I'll come back another ti with tales of my youth, post Army discharge where I covered the country hopping freight trains and hitch-hiking all over. Or working on cattle ranch in Montana, bar tending in California, shoeing horses in the 1977 Rose Parade and more. Bye for now. Bruce Matthews Thonotosassa, Florida
I read every word and loved it Bruce. I'm sorry you lost your wife and best friend at such a young age.
Just discovered your channel, & it's very timely. We're gathering information for a retirement plan a couple years down the road, & your content has been very helpful. We've both camped all our lives, but nothing beyond a family tent & dining fly, so we're learning from the experience of others. So far, you guys are about as close to what we THINK we want as we've found so far. This is good stuff - keep it up. Thank you.
Welcome aboard! Please check out all of our videos, they go back as far as 2017 or so. We started out as a "pew-pew" channel but had to change. Thanks for subbing.
Northern Michigan here. We got a 6 x 12 cargo trailer to hall my Trike and I watch your videos and told my husband what to build inside. We Evan put a shower in it. We went out to Steamboat CO. Last year for a month to help my son that had a 5 knee operation and up to Marquette to take my other son to a ship he works on. It was the first weekend of C19 lock down. We only have 2 trips under our belt but boy do we have some exciting stories. Keep up the great videos hope to see you on the road some day. Mary & Joe Sullivan Grand Lake MI.
These trailers are sure practical aren't they? I hope we can get back on the road pretty soon.
You two are just so damn wholesome!
Thanks for sharing your experience with us. I am going a similar route myself. I originally wanted a teardrop trailer to tow behind a sport compact car. I have a 1/2-ton truck now so I'm converting a 5' X 10' cargo trailer into a "1.5-person camper". My wife is 5' tall so she's the 1/2 person. Hee! Kidding. She can stand up in it, though. I can't, but I'm laying out the interior so that I can move about inside the trailer if it's raining or windy. Galley will be at the rear door, bunk will be forward. Keeping it relatively simple that way, but I have 420 watts PV fixed to the roof with another 100W to deploy when needed for a full 30 amps (12V solar) to the batteries. Have a 1500W inverter to power first a Keurig, then an 1100W toaster oven. Each appliance will run +/- 5 mins. Three 100Ah batts can handle that easily, with power left over for lights, fan, and device charging. blah blah blah... When I'm farther along I'll post a first vid ever on YT. Thanks for your efforts and again for your experience, Gonagain. See ya!
That's going to be a good set-up and the solar is fantastic. Have fun with your build!
Yep for me my 6x10 cargo trailer conversion is the only way to go . I have mine set up fully contained Porta pot , 12volt frig. I have traveled thousands of miles with mine over 13 years and very happy. Best of luck to you thank you for the great videos .
Yours sounds nice. You started doing this before it got to be popular. Thanks for watching Bill!
Would love to see the inside of your home and design. You all look so happy.
You all are so much fun ! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for watching!
I just got a 1997 suburban 4 whl dr 5.7l with a tow package. A few minor issues but basically great drive train. I'm 77 and want to live off the grid. So I enjoyed your videos thanks alot for the re inspirement, be safe !
That's a good year for the Suburban. We had one and liked it.
So good to see you again. I finally sold my diesel Suburban, bought a Toy... 4Runner. It was our 3rd Burb, and we loved 'em all. Heading up to Idaho in a few weeks, then back down home to South Texas. 80* this afternoon, 68* last night. The kids are all in their 30s now, and we just don't need the extra space or fuel expense. Die $el is just rediculous now, and the veggie oil I used to run sometimes is too much trouble for this old guy. Aloha!
Oh yeah, "tent camping" , as in backpacking,far away from highways, was always my preferred way, but the wife and kids always preferred the Burb or a m/hotel.
Always nice to hear from you. We made it down to AZ, getting out of the Montana winter.
I have purchased a 5x8 enclosed trailer for hauling antique Engines to shows.once unloaded it becomes home with all of the things I need inside.watching your videos I see things that I can do to improve my home on wheels .thank you for providing the information and ideas ..
Glad we were of some help. Thanks for watching our videos.
I think you have the perfect setup, don't need big and fancy, your there to enjoy the great outdoors .
I appreciate showing what kind of trails you can take the trailer on. There are lots of videos on converting trailers but not much on where they can be taken.
Check out some of our older videos to see more of where we take our trailer. We've been doing this for about 12 years now. Thank you for your comment!
Liked this video, especially going on smaller roads, We took a trip along the St Lawrence river in Canada one Summer and we still talk about that trip. We took the old highway that are now secondary roads. Enjoy your camping, We have to wait for the Summer month.
That sounds like a great trip along the St Lawrence river. We always try to stick to the old highways and stay off the well beaten paths. Hope you get out soon.
I have always been an avid backpacker and tent camper. I have always called factory made campers GWW. They are a Great White Waste of natural resources and they always herd together in RV Parks. Not for me!
I just turned 71 and decided like you that if I wanted my wife to travel with me and if I wanted to be able to blend in to the small towns and the back country I might enjoy a little more comfort.
Currently I am building out a 6x12 Cargo Camper that is pretty basic but has what I need for long term 2-3 months or can be used short term and can be used to Stealth camp in Suburban areas and remote off grid as well.
The rear barn doors can be held in place for a sprayer shower along with shower curtain and tarp and pvc pipe.
I live in NC and the summers are brutally hot and humid.
I decided to build a wall with window, 6000 BTU AC, and 2 foot wide door 16 inches inside the barn doors. If it gets too hot I can run the 600 watt AC on a drop cord with shore power or by generator. The 16 inch space inside the back doors is the garage and is perfect for spare tire, jack, Leveling equipment, generator and more.
Basic kitchen in front with a 12 V DC and 115V AC dorm fridge etc in the front nose.
Your videos have helped inspire me and helped with the design.
PS. I bring my tent, backpack, sleeping pad as well. Sometimes my cargo Camper becomes my Base Camp.
Thanks again!
Sounds like a pretty nice set up!
We have a 2015 Ram Laramie Crew Cab and pull a 7 x12 v-nose single axle cargo trailer all aluminum made by R & R Trailers in Three Rivers, Michigan. Ordered it insulated, stabilizer jacks, rv steps, rv door with window, screen door, window on each side, awning, a/c, finished interior. I wired it and a friend built a kitchen cabinets, sink in nose. It was also painted to match truck. We live I. PA and took a 3 1/2 week trip ladies summer to Montana, Utah & Wyoming. We have a queen bed and a ramp door in back. Love it. Oh, My last rv was a Airstream!
That sounds like a very nice trailer, about the right size too. The nice thing about a seven foot wide model is that the bed can go across the back and take up less space. Thanks for commenting Daniel!
That's a great setup and very versatile. We are retired and worked our way up from tents to a 5th wheel. We enjoy travel camping and staying in boondocking areas. A Class B is not for everyone but meets our needs very well.
Thank you Mr & Mrs Goagain for sharing your life experiences and wisdom on exploring this great country.
I am an expat Aussie who hopes to one day do the same as you when I'm done with my work life.
Just letting you know that all the time and effort you two put into producing and posting your vids is very much appreciated. It does and can have a prefound effect on those of us that are getting close to retirement.
I wish you both safe travels!
Thank you John, we appreciate hearing that.
We have had tents, popups, class c, big class a, now I have a box van that I am building out the way I want it, I love it, its economical, sturdy stealth and goes almost anywhere.
I love the story. I did the same thing 20 years ago. I built an off-road cart for my then 10-11 year old boys. Built the Trailer to haul it then a few years later I put a roof on it and turned it into a camping trailer. The FIRST thing I put in was a Hot water heater, stainless steel sink (with a coutertop) and a outdoor shower . 5' x 10 ft.. Then the most comfortable matress/bed I've ever slept on. The only thing missing was a bathroom. Yeah, needs to be 14'.
You can put a "Skid plate" on the backside of your trailer. Aluminum for weight. Titanium if your really serious!
Do you have a winch on the front of your truck? It would get you out of trouble in an emergency. Snatch Block is also a handy device.....
I just bought a new 5x10 trailer and have started my build. I built out a cargo van but someone saw it when I went to Quartszite last year and made me an offer to good to refuse. Your videos inspired me to go with a trailer this time. Thanks for your videos.
Awesome! You're going to like the cargo camper.
@@gonagain Did you and Linda make it to Quartszite this year?
Yes, we even had a meet up with viewers. Watch our most recent videos to see those nice folks.
We are wired so similarly that we would get along perfectly (or not at all). :-) I am with you 100% on theory and execution! I've been down the tent->truck camper->popup->hybrid->monster 32-footer and now back to quick-up tent pending funds for a 6x10 or 6x12. Keep it up!
Great minds think alike! Thanks Jay.
lovely couple
Been camping in all kinds of "rigs". Current favorite is a Chevy Cheyenne standard cab with an A.R.E. Deluxe
Commercial Unit. Both sides open up with bug screens. 200 watt solar panels on top. (You can't see them
unless you climb up on something.) It is just me, so all I have is a simple cot, foam pad and sleeping bag.
I use a garden sprayer, painted black, for my shower. There are 2 6v. batteries in a box where the passenger
seat was and a Koolatron in that floor area. (Keeps my beer cold)
Latest trip was to the Grand Canyon and Carlsbad Caverns.
I play jaw harp, and someone called me "the Wandering Harpist".
Love your videos and am subbed.😁
Thanks for subscribing Patrick! I looked up the A.R.E. Deluxe and that looks like a quality topper. Nice outfit (Montana term).
I've been binge watching your many videos today. First off, thanks for putting these together, for all of us less knowledgeable on Cargo Camping.
We have a 7'X14' double axle Wells Cargo V-nose trailer. I have been working on for about the last 9 months. It's almost done, or as you have pointed out, they are never really all done! I am impressed with you and your wife getting out away from the cities and exploring our great country. I hope to follow your lead and example.
Woody Collette, Midway, Utah
Woody, you're starting out in the right state to explore because Utah is incredible! We spend time there every year. My daughter has a 7x14 and it's a great size for getting in all the essentials without being too big at the same time. If I was ever to go bigger that would be it.
We have traveled like you, a small utility trailer and tow vehicle... it is so liberating to just go where ever you please. You guys always make me smile, I really love your content and video quality! Thank you SO MUCH for sharing your lives with us! If you ever make it West past Yellowstone Park, I would love to cook you guys a hot meal and give you some great camping spot ideas around Idaho! Keep up the great work, I can't wait to see where you go next and what you'll get up to.
The offer of good food is very tempting! Thanks for the offer Yoshi, you never know what the future holds!
We tent camped for many years on our Harley. Then we bought a trailer to pull behind the Harley to take more comfortable things like a queen air bed etc. Now we have a 30’ 5th wheel pulling a trailer with the Harley or SxS. Now we can winter in Arizona comfortably 🌵😁
It's snowing out and I'd love to winter in AZ!
You and your wife sound so much like us. We have done the whole travel trailer bit too, and I agree with you that it limits the places you can explore. We now travel in our Ford F-150 and we have mounted a Tepui rooftop tent over the bed of our truck. We keep all valuables inside the cab of the truck and general camping gear in the truck bed. Anywhere I can park the truck, we can camp. Tent is a good six feet off the ground so it stays nice and clean, no bugs crawling in either. And with a built in queen size memory foam mattress, we sleep like babies. Sets up and takes down in 5 minutes either way. Check out rooftop tents on line and you'll get a better idea of what I'm talking about. Happy camping. Hope we run into you two one day and we can crack a cold one or two and swap stories. Cheers from Canada 🇨🇦🍻
We are familiar with the roof top tents and watch a couple of channels that feature them. They look like a great way to travel. If you see us on the road please come on over and introduce yourselves.
Gonagain Will do Rick. Watch for us Canucks. Cheers 🍻
I've been watching your videos for awhile now and the are very interesting and informative and entertaining !!
Thanks Joe!
We have a Ford Transit Van and a 6x10 Cargo Trailer like yours. We don’t always take the trailer, just depends on the trip. Our trailer has a kitchen setup. We call it the chuck wagon. It also carries all our extra stuff like extra water and propane. It also becomes the bathroom and shower room. We have tried them all just like you. Two truck campers, a 5th wheel trailer, two class “A” motor homes and now a van with a trailer. We don’t do campgrounds unless forced to because of weather etc. Boondocking is our favorite. We are pretty much self contained with 300 watts of solar. The van is used as an every day vehicle that is always loaded with food and clothes. We can go anywhere at anytime. Just a quick stop for veggies and a little gas. After 30 years of camping we have decided that the simpler the better. All RVs have constant problems and are money pits.
Nice set up! Yeah, I agree, simple is best.
Enjoyed your insight and experience. Helped me decide. 7x14 single axel.
Barn doors will not be taking atv.
I've had my small campervan for almost 5 years, it's great, has an oven, sink, drainer, fridge, shower and two captains chairs (the two front seats swivel) but, last summer I purchased a 9'x5'x 6' High, fold up insulated hard top and sides caravan/trailer.
I'll be selling the van shortly.
I don't need to be driving a van around 95% of the time when I'm not camping.
Unhitching a trailer and having full use of a car will be a nice change, when I need to change my car, I'll still have my little home on wheels.
I got it for a Good price second hand and will be doing my own customised fit out, that shall be fun.
My van has an inside living space of 12'x5'x6'2" High, when I close it off to 6'4"x5' feet on winter nights; that's my favourite because it's so cosy.
Small spaces are cosy and easy to heat, if I lived in a hot sunny climate, I'd be thinking differently.
Your videos have given me some needed direction and inspiration, thanks to both of you 👍
Thanks for sharing your story. Sounds like you have a fun project ahead of you. We do like that we can unhitch and go gallivanting and come back to our "home".
@@gonagain Thank You!
Love you cute lil cargo trailer.🤩😍
We have a Travato Class B but you right about getting very far off road in a Class B Van! I like your outfit!
Have two axe 12x6 and a 1 ton f-350 with a home built camper shell. Love it. Thanx for your video's.
That sounds like a nice outfit with lots of room to bring things along.
@@gonagain Yes when we leave we gone for the winter. We go to Quartsite area. We live in northeastern WA.
I have watched dozens of RV camping videos and you are the first one to mention Least Heat Moon's "Blue Highways." I was required to read the book in a sociology class almost 40 years ago and to this day I remember it; sounds the perfect way to travel and meet people. I also appreciate the information and easy going style of your videos and becoming a fan!
Thank you! Yes, I really related to Least Heat Moon's thoughts on travel and took it to heart. Each place we visit is about those who live there and the history. You don't get that when you travel the freeways.
I enjoy your videos. We live in South Carolina but have made several trips out west. We love doing that and love camping in places like y'all camp . I noticed that the last time we ventured out west we had many more instances of feeling uneasy about random passers by. Safety became a concern but won't stop us. I liked your video addressing safety. Our best setup that worked really well for us is a small pop-up camper that is equipped with heat and air and a 2002 Chevy pick-up outfitted with a tow-haul package. (Not really needed for the pop-up). The truck has a tool box; good for storage, and we heavily chain a generator to the truck bed for use in wilderness areas. Only one con: we are getting older. The pop-up is easy enough to set up but you have to get on your knees to reach into the small storage areas, hence, we must keep everything stored high in a box. Problem solved.
I sympathize with the getting older part and not being able to get at things as easily any more. Good idea to keep your generator chained up. Linda mentioned to me the other day "Would people set their expensive generator out on their front lawn overnight and think it was safe? Why do they leave them out in camp?" Thank you for stopping by Shirley!
We use a Tent trailer- we have had 3 different so far. Lite weight and pull easily. They are not much good at Walmart, but that’s not our style. Currently we have a Fleetwood evaluation E2. There’s a deck on front for the 4-wheeler. Heater, frig, shower & toilet, stove, awning. Let’s go camping!
I looked that up and that's quite a nice tent trailer. You can haul that anywhere you want to go. Thanks for watching Mike!
Blue Higways is a classic! Read it many Moons ago ;)
Love your channel too!
Considering a cargo trailer build.
That book taught me a different way of looking at life and travel. Build yourself a cargo trailer, you'll like it!
Thanks for sharing this video,
Thanks again, for the interesting information. Take care,have a great day.
You bet!
Blue Highways! Thanks for referencing a great old book! Cheers!
I think we have a similar idea as far as RV travel. I was a tent camper all my life. My vehicle was a ford hi-top conversation van. The rear seat could be used as a bed and we used that in cold or very wet weather. I bought that van new and it served my family well for 18 years. Now I retired and bought my first RV. I searched for months until I found what I was looking for. It had to be small enough to be pulled by any car yet have all the comforts of a large RV. I wanted to stay under 2000 lbs. I found what I was looking for in a Falcon 14 LT. It comes in at 1600lbs. It’s 14 Feet long to the end of the hitch. It has big over sized tires and I can move the whole rig around if I had to. It has an enclosed toilet with shower. It has a fully equipped kitchen with 3 way refrigerator. A large dinette that coverts to a large bed. Heat and air conditioning, stereo, TV. 18 gal of fresh and a combo waste tank. My tow vehicle is a ford transit connect with plenty of storage. I take along a Westinghouse 2500 watt generator and it can run the 13,500 btu Air conditioner. I was completely comfortable in 105 degree heat. I like the fact that I can walk around in this thing unlike the clam style campers. I feel smaller is sometimes better. I can pull off the road anywhere and get a good nights sleep. I can’t off road like you do but I fit into places a large RV can’t. One good suggestion for you is to get a pop out bed that can be installed on the side of your trailer. I’v seen cargo trailers with them already built in. You could sleep and not have to take your 4 wheeler out. Plus it has screens and would be cooler.
That sounds like a nice little trailer for sure! Lots of comfort in a small package.
I like all forms of travel, from a backpack, to my adventure motorcycle, to my truck and trailer. Like you we’ve had several rigs ranging from a tent to a class c motor home. The one that works the best for both my wife and I is our current 6x12 cargo trailer that I built out myself. We’ve been using it for almost 6 years now, having put probably 30,000 miles and 120+ nights in it. I’m currently planning a new build, but it will still be a 6x12, just a little different layout using what I’ve learned over the years.
These trailers are hard to beat. We think of building another one, but this current one is working out so well that we keep putting it off. Thanks for watching Douglas!
We live full time in our 42 foot motor home. We will do some boon docking, but it will never go to some of the places you can reach. I have enjoyed your videos about how your trailer is put together.
Linda and I see the big beautiful motor homes go by us on the highway and sometimes we think "Yeah, we could get used to that!" Thanks for watching Glen!
Thanks again for sharing.
Love this. We are freshly retired and in Montana. So we are still in the car and tent phase. But with a blow up mattress. We have been considering a cargo trailer build out.. many times. So great to see what you all are doing here. We have been looking at Teardrops very seriously. Used since they are so darn expensive.
You can really do a lot with a cargo trailer and they come in many different sizes. Start out with a couple of cots and go from there, making it as simple or as fancy as you like. Thanks for watching!
I love your set up brother... I'm 64 and I love camping...
It's working out great for us and it wasn't expensive either. Thanks for watching Lorenzo!
I thank you guys for your wisdom on camping out. I'm going to do the same thing when I get 65. But you don't know what to buy and we get that wisdom from the two of you thank you. Love the videos keep it up. Danny coffey I'm in farmersville California next to Visalia California.
Thank you for watching Danny! I'm working on a video about what makes the cargo trailers such a great choice. Stay tuned and it will be out next week sometime.
Great "tidbits" of important experience. Thanks!
I really enjoyed this video and the background on your camper selection. I recently obtained a 6x14 toy hauler and I have really enjoyed your documenting the build of your trailer. For me, I like the simpler is better approach. I am planning to implement several of your ideas into my camper - so thanks for sharing
That's a nice size for a cargo trailer. At 14' you should have enough room in front of your toys for a bathroom that you can get to while you're traveling if you like. Thanks for watching Robert.
Thanks for all the good information on the different types of camping/RVing. I wasn't aware of all the trade-offs until listening to this video. Personally I have a class B, Winnebago Travato. I love it. It has everything except excess space. Plenty of headroom. It has a TRUMA-Combi Space heater/water heater. I don't think I could say enough good things about this unit. It has electric heating elements or it will run on propane. 95% efficient. Also, the Pro master 1 ton chassis that it's on delivers 16 miles per gallon/highway on regular gasoline. I modify the ride by putting in heavy duty rear anti-sway bars, and sumo springs front and rear. High top vans are obviously top-heavy. This mod really made a difference!
George, I've heard good things about the Winnebago Class Bs. They're supposed to be built pretty well and are convenient. Thanks for watching!
"Blue Highways." One of my all time favorite books. You are the first person that I have come across, other than myself, that has read it. We have always tried to be the travelers, not the tourist. Right now we're in between camping set ups. I have been using tents and running around in a '94 Jeep Cherokee. Some times with a 6X4 open utility trailer. My wife doesn't really care for tent camping so that was my do all outfit for years. Exploring , hunting, and fishing. We now have a 2018 diesel Colorado crew cab with a high topper to pull a small camp trailer. Something less than 18 ft. In the last few years there has been an increase in the number of trailers this size. Many are built for off pavement use. So now we're looking at whats out there and find something we can both live with. Doesn't need to be new.
You seem to have the right idea. When we started, small trailers were hard to find and were expensive, even old used ones. I like that diesel Colorado.
You’re giving me some great ideas for an off-road mini toy hauler. I’d love to see what you did on the inside of the trailer.
Thanks for watching Jeff. There's not too much inside because we still haul our 4 wheeler around sometimes, but you can see it here if you like: ruclips.net/video/YIBRK3O8MCY/видео.html
Cheers mate! Another awesome video and learning experience from you two. Thanks for sharing.
This is one reason to go smaller rig for beautiful sceneies that are very well hidden like a gem. Only the one who dares with smaller rig can enjoy its allure... Cheers and happy winter travels!
Really enjoy your videos. Very helpful!
Awesome, thank you!
I’ve been waiting to learn some of your history. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us. Sometimes the most exciting part of the “trip” is the planning and getting equipment ready. We leave for the Red River, NM area in our Jeep tomorrow. Have a great week.
That's going to be a nice trip Todd! We'll beheading in a southerly direction in the coming weeks.
I just bought a truck and camper. It is my first RV and I am a solo traveller. I did need room for friends and grandchildren on occasion so I needed a safe place for them to travel. A truck seemed much safer than a class C so I went with that. Looking forward to the road. Plan to start out in March and become permanent.
Good for you Janice, you must be excited to get going. My advice is that you don't set up an itinerary at all. Just take it one day at a time and enjoy the journey.
I'm thinking about a cargo trailer too. Now I'm thinking tinier like yours!
We sure are happy with ours.
Thanks for sharing, I enjoy your shop talk and able to learn stuff thru experience of others.
Thank you Mark.
We have a one ton dodge diesel with a camper on it with indoor potty, ran into one too many bears. It is a 4x4. We also sometimes take our A TV ' S with us and when we do we have a small car trailer that haul them just fine. Living the dream in Montana too.
That's just about the perfect outfit (none are perfect!). I like that you don't have to unload your ATV to be able to sleep.
You have a real nice rig, thanks for sharing.
thankyou much for your kind info. I am thinking of venturing for such a trip exploring National, state Parks, etc. All in a Chevy Trax, 4 cyl, (AWD) with my dog. Obviously I will have to travel light, but really intend to sleep inside and carry just a cargo tote on my roof rack. This will be a challenge in simplicity. Wanted such a car for the lower investment and decent gas mileage. Looking forward to learning more from your site. God bless you both
Hi Kathleen. You can have a great trip traveling the way you've described and it's been done by others successfully too. Maybe we'll see you on the road sometime! Come over and say hi.
When me and my wife traveled across the country in our Hundai pulling a mini camper taught us alot about traveling.Even though we were in a small rig we still were very limited to where we could camp.We figured out the National parks are wonderful but we would much rather be boondocking.
We mostly boondock ourselves and mostly we are the only people around for miles.
@@gonagain we have yet to boondock but we figured out we are sick if campgrounds lol
This was very helpful. Thank you for posting.
Thanks for checking in Abby!
We travel in a small pickup or SUV with an open 4x8 utility trailer that holds out supplies, and we set up a 10x12 tent, with a 10x10 awning that we enclose with tarps. We mostly camp in national forests in unimproved sites where it's free.
Thanks, you guys are real.
You have a great set-up I wish I could camping like that
Part of it is where I live and the many places there are to go camp. Were blessed here!
We started tent camping in the early 70's. Spent our honeymoon in a Camel 8x10 canvas is St Augustine. Woke the first morning to a big black thunder head cloud coming at our front door. I rushed to add six more tiedowns to the existing eight the tent had. We closed the flaps on the two "windows" and the front door and the wind picked up. Not sure how much wind there was but the wind blew under the tent to where it was like a inflated mattress. I laid stretched out, as did my wife, and eventually the wind died and we were still in place. We did tent camping with kids and all for many years, before buying the Shasta. The beginning, if you can live thru that, you can live thru anything.
Sounds like our first ocean crossing in a small sailboat....right into a gale that lasted for days. Thanks for sharing your story, Jim b.
Everyone should own a Corvette once in their life, and once is enough. The only trailer you didn't mention was a tent trailer. I bought one with a shower stall that folded into the ceiling. After you figured it out it was still a 30 minute setup and 20 minute takedown. Told my wife I would rather sleep in the bed of my truck than put that darn thing up!
Thanks for a video ! I’m new to your channel but did the “Like and Subscribe” so I’ll be following your stories from now on. I’m new to RV living and just purchased my first RV - my 36’ retirement plan. Working for another year and just moved into it to learn what I need to know before setting off on “the life.” I’d never attempt to take my rig where you go with ease - way too big. And as a solo woman, I’ll probably stay in less secluded spaces for a while. I’m interested in the book you mentioned because I plan to make a similar trip as my maiden voyage and first RV adventure. When I was little, and before the interstate highway system opened, my family in Texas would drive to PA every summer to visit my mother’s family. We went through small-town America, stayed in locally-owned motels, and ate in family-owned diners. It was great and all my memories of those trips are some of my happiest times as a little girl. After the interstate highways opened, everything changed. All the hotel chains and burger joints replaced our old trip - but the new highways took a full day off the trip. From 3 days on the road to 2 days-my Dad was in heaven. I want to
re-trace that old trip, where you really saw the country, met the people, slowed down and enjoyed it all. I can’t wait.
Thanks again-I’ll be watching!
You brought back some fond memories for me too. It's still out there, bypassed by most, but still waiting for your visit. Thank you Sandy.
I am so boring - I don't travel. Haven't traveled in years. Thanks for sharing your travels - very interesting stuff.
Thank you for watching James!
Gonagain....Thank You for the link. I wanted my wife to see this as well. We now have a older 19' 5th wheel that we enjoy. but crave the remote areas as yourself. So the wife and I have much to discuss and talk about. We both enjoy your videos there very informative and thought provoking. Thank You again. David J
Thanks David.
Plan to hit the road in 45 days or so. Wanted to build out a cargo trailer like yours; but, ran out of time. Two days ago, I bought a used 12 foot "Freeport" trailer. Self contained with furnace, A/C, fridge & freezer, shower & toilet. Not what I wanted; but, it will do for now. Small / designed for just two people; so, just fine for an old guy & his dog (who loves it!). Backpacking days are over......
My backpacking days are over too, but there's still lots of trouble that we can get into! Sounds like your 12 foot Freeport trailer will work out fine. Thanks for watching another one of my videos J D!
We have now camped in 3 different rigs plus the early days of tent camping.I hope that the cargo trailer conversion works for us because I'm ready to use a rig that works better for all of us.We plan on doing a 7x14 with twin bunks on each side us and our 2 granddaughters
Sounds great, John!
Nice rig me and my wife have a 2016 popup camper we love it here in AZ there is a lot of off the grid camping we go every weekend nothing better than to get away from people happy trails
We love the camping in Arizona and get down there almost every year. The desert is beautiful!
A long time ago my wife and three kids would travel "blue roads". The baby would sleep with mom on the back seat. The middle kid would sleep on the rear deck above mom and baby. The oldest kid would sleep on the floor in front of the rear seat where I had filled blankets to make it even. I slept on the front seat. We drove many miles with diapers hanging from the rear view mirror. We did this until kids would all start to run in different directions. Then we started staying home or going to campground destinations.
Even now, we still use blue roads for day trips. our kids would run like crazy to a hotel and swimming pool for a weekend. The biggest pride we had was when one of the grandkids and their baby came by. They were doing a blue road trip, that they had heard in family stories, and on the mirror was a real cloth diaper. The world will be just fine.
Nice aerial shots you got.
Great build.
Thanks James.
We started out in a tent, then to a travel trailer, then to a fifth wheel. Now we are trailerless and thinking about going back to something small. Thanks for the advice.
We went that road ourselves and love the freedom our little trailer provides.
Enjoyed the video! What fun times.
Thanks Wilderness One!
Enjoyed your video, and I don’t have a favorite way of traveling yet. I retired about a year and 5 months ago, and spend a lot of time on RUclips looking at camping trailer options.i have two young grandsons I want to take out and explore the good old outdoors, and make memories! Happy trails to you both!
Congratulations on your retirement Ron! Just my personal opinion; don't go too big, try to keep it as small as possible yet still have the amenities you want. When it comes to trailers, the reason we chose a converted cargo trailer is that they are all welded and won't come apart at the seams when you drive them over uneven roads. There are companies that custom build them for you or, if you want a regular trailer you should look at those made by Outdoor RV and Artic Fox. They're built to stand up to some abuse. You can find great deals on them used too. Thank you for watching our video!
First time watching your videos, 2nd video. Very enjoyable, entertaining and relaxing with some good advise. I mainly do tent camping in the California deserts and have been thinking about set up like yours. Likes for sharing.... happy trails
Long-time follower never saw this video good stuff
Thanks for sticking with us for so long, Wes. See you on the next one!
Enjoyed the video. I've owned and traveled in everything from car, truck, motorcycle, Jeep, van, etc. But my favorite of all time (so far) was my '71 VW camper van. It was under powered, with no A/C but I ventured over most of North America in that thing! I even put a cassette porta potty in it. I'd buy a new VW camper today if Volkswagen would start exporting them to the USA again. They stopped in 2003. I'm currently traveling in a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trailhawk. It's smaller than what I'm used to but I once did a lot of backpacking so minimalism is not foreign concept to me. And so far, the Jeep has taken me everywhere I want to go.
We've had several VW buses ourselves, back in my hippy days. I guess these days it would be the mini van. Thanks for watching Desert Rat!
Really nice spot
We have a similar set up as yours, that being said i was excited to come across your videos. Unfortunately we only get to use it maybe a couple times a year. a younger family with two daughters still in school. trailer is 8.5x20
Wife sleeps on a cot, kids and myself on the floor, i did install a shower (best part)
The first time I ever noticed a cargo trailer being used for camping belonged to a family like yours and was a similar size. I watched them set up next to us (and our tent) and the light went on!
A Casita Independence might suit you perfectly -- inside bathroom, twin beds, rugged construction. Maybe just need to put a lift and shocks on it and it should be all you need.
Thanks, I am learning alot from your experience. I have a Aliner and like it alot. Tows good, lots of room. But I would like something where I could just pull over at a rest stop or Walmart and open the trailer door and go inside without any setup.
That's the advantage this trailer has (and one that Linda insists on) in that we are able to pull over and access it at any time. The extra windage costs us a little on gas mileage, but it's worth it for the convenience.
My second time watching this and have been reThinking my approach to the bugout/camping / set up and you two have helped me in deciding on a small-med. cargo trailer (C T Camper) instead of a truck camper or a campervan. Thanks and keep up the good adventure . H. Lee Dye
It took us awhile to get to this little trailer and we still think it's the best option for us. Good luck! By the way, we just did a video "Bugging Out On A Budget" where I talk about the trailer in more detail.
Great vid explaining your progression into what I would agree is one of the Best ways to explore the backroads and back country while still having some comfort. My very similar setup is a 1994 4X4 6.5 diesel suburban and a 6X12 cargo trailer that triple purposes as my dualsport motorcycle hauler and camper as well as my work trailer. It's hard to beat your setup for versatility and comfort! The SUV and trailer setup allows you to haul lots of comfort when you want to but also allows you to simplify and take just the SUV into the deep backcountry and sleep in it in a pinch. Only downside I've found is mpgs but that's why I've got my bike so I can explore even further on it with much less comfort of course.
It's a great combination for sure. We constantly think about other ways of traveling and exploring, but it always comes back to this being what's right for us. It just works so well! Thanks for watching Sean!
My 2015 Prius. A 6' space to stretch out, climate control uses 50 cents per night. The electric /gas 89 octane combo engine kicks on for 10 min an hour over (more or less) an 8 hour sleep to keep the inside as needed -warm or cool according to your setting. I have a carbon monoxide detector for safety.
The Prius comes with 2 each USB and 12 volt charge ports for technology. I also carry a solar flash light that can charge my phone. I have a small 12 volt cooler. And an insulated box made of silver bubble wrap to place at the passenger foot space that the air conditioner keeps cool as I travel. I also have a small electric ice maker. My memory foam twin mattress is very comfortable. A full memory foam would fit as well, but I like cargo space. There is a vent inside for the electric battery beside the passenger side door back seat that has to be kept clear for air to the battery. Braking charges the main battery while driving. For toileting a short or full size bucket with a bag and screw on lid works well. I place black custom -fit covers into the glass spaces for privacy. With the Toyota hybrid engine I get 50 miles per gallon. It is low to the ground so camping spots are according to that access requirement.
T CR, there are a LOT of people that would love to see how you did all of this. I've seen other folks traveling an sleeping in a Prius (they're amazingly roomy) but none that I know of are doing it quite like you are. Please do a video showing what you've done, put it up on your channel and then tell me about it if you would be so kind.
"0 dark 30 with the bears" 😂 good one! I'm looking to get a cargo trailer, probably bigger then yours. Am getting ready to start my adventure within the year. Safe travels. ✌
God luck with your new adventures Roaming Free!
@@gonagain I'm binge watching your videos. Just found your channel yesterday & boy have you given me a lot of useful info! Thanks so much, greatly appreciated. 💖✌
This is September 2020 I am building out my own 6X10 cargo trailer using some of your inspiration. However, I plan on living in mine, full time. Do hope to see u around sometime.
Hope so Terry.
I like your style. The best to you and Linda.😁
Thank you Robert!
That’s a great spot.
That's in central Wyoming on the mountains to the east of Thermopolis and Worland. Not a great road and miles of it getting there.
But I'd go back!
Thanks for explaining your set up. Makes sense. I’d rather travel the exact same way as you because I don’t like the restrictions of a hotel. But I must have a bathroom for the Mrs. Many thanks.
Thanks for watching Thomas. We just use a sawdust (composting) type toilet that we built from a five gallon bucket. Not even near perfect, but it doesn't smell and it's easy to maintain.
Gonagain hats off to you for getting your wife to use a bucket for a toilet. I mentioned it my wife, no reply, but if looks could kill, you get it.
@@thomaslotito380, lol! Be careful...
We had a 13ft. Escape trailer for 11 years. Now we have a 17ft Nest, airstream fiberglass to have
A little more space. Would love to do some boondocking. We need to work on that
I think you would like it. To be out and away from the crowd can be rewarding for sure. Nice trailer you have!
I like your channel! I'm on the east coast, so options are different here. And not retired. We started with a Casita trailer...then bought a small Runaway (squaredrop), then a bigger Runaway. We also have an old Dodge Roadtrek B. So we have changed our style over the years as well. Our problem is that we haven't gotten rid of anything yet! I believe we will sell the Casita and the small Runaway and we will have what are (for us) the two best options. For now. As you know things change....
Those Roadtreks are pretty nice from the ones I've seen. Thanks for watching Tom!
well thought out, good stuff,