You can get a third-party hitch for a fairly inexpensive price. I have a Yakima. Its 450 liters but I do keep it on full time. Great set up and I hope you have many adventures!
Very true! And Yakima makes great stuff--I actually have a Yakima OffGrid roof basket on my roof right now. My biggest concern with most third-party hitches is that you lose a bit of ground clearance that you don't with the OEM hitch, and while I don't have a lift on the Rav4 I need all the ground clearance I can get!
Nice setup, especially the roof storage. Totally agree with you on not building a platform. Just doesn’t make sense for me, and I’m only 5’8”. I enjoy the versatility it provides. I go with a cheap ozark foam base pad (those foldable ones) and a decent thermarest basecamp on top. I made my own window blackouts that look just like yours. I got one of those sunroof magnetic screens for moisture control and use a UCO single candle lantern for heat (used some wire to attach a mini clay pot to it for heat retention). I have a 2016 Mazda CX-5*
Yeah, building a platform didn't make a lot of sense for me for the height reasons, but also I live in an apartment building and don't have the storage room to remove a platform system from the car when I'm not using it. Thanks for watching!
thanks for sharing all the items you use. I currently have a Class C motorhome (1999), and am wanting to travel longer distances so exploring using my RAV4 as a car camper. Much appreciate your video.
Yeah I can imagine the gas mileage on a class C isn't great, but the convenience of having an entire home on wheels probably can't be beat--except when you have to parallel park the dang thing! The Rav4 is a pretty capable and efficient little car and I've been impressed with it thus far. Check out some of the other videos on my channel to see the car in action like this one at Oceano Beach, CA: ruclips.net/video/MAb89HXxSRM/видео.html
Do it! I know it seems scary, but I love traveling alone. You go at your own pace, at the inspiration of your own thoughts and ideas. Go where you want, when you want, stop when you want, where you want. I know some people find it lonely and desperately need someone to talk to at all times, I just don't have that compulsion and when I do-- hey, that's why I have Doug around :). The jerrycan is made by Reliance. It looks like they've made a 2.0 version of it which includes a screw-on air release valve cap instead of the squirt-gun style one they have on mine ( a vast improvement!): relianceoutdoors.com/collections/aqua-storage/products/jumbo-tainer-7g-26l Thanks for watching!
You should try looking into cots. I live in my Adventure tram rav 4. For like $300 you can get a cot that goes the entire length of the back. It makes a huge difference having that little bit of storage and it's not being an air has legs so you don't need anything behind past your seat to support it. Also you have a nice memory foam mattress.
Hi, I wanted to let you know that you can go to any Uhaul dealer (the best ones are near a military base) and they do a fantastic job of installing a hitch on your RAV4. The one near Barksdale AFB did mine and they were by far the least expensive. I called multiple places within a 4-hour radius. I made an appointment and was in and out less than half an hour.
Hey thanks for the heads up! I've actually looked into this and the difference between the OEM hitch and aftermarket ones such as can be purchased and installed at a UHaul is that the OEM one sits closer to the frame of the vehicle and actually gets cut into the lower rear bumper valance, whereas the aftermarket ones hang a bit lower. For most folks this isn't a big deal, but ground clearance is a concern when taking a vehicle off-road, and because the Rav4 only has 8.6 inches from the factory--even on the TRD model, which is a real head-slapper--every inch away from the ground counts! The only reasons I would use a tow hitch are for a bike rack or for a full-size spare tire carrier swing-out. For now, I'm satisfied with my back racks on the roof, and a full size spare fits in the trunk where the donut is if you remove some of the styrofoam, but I've yet to get one. That's on the list of upgrades for sure, though!
I took out backseat in my w/ help from a utoob vid. Built a small plywood platform with short 2x4s for support to the floor and edge of battery box (I have a hybrid).
Nice--I've likely seen similar vids and have thought about doing the same, cause it seems like removing the back seat would allow for more headroom inside the car when in sitting up in "bed," but I still need my back seat for people or dogs to use sometimes. Additionally, I don't have a garage, so I don't really have a place to store removed seats when not in use.
@@brendansoutdoors377 I just got this rav4 hybrid and I'm leaving Michigan in a couple days to hike in SW around Silver City, NM. Have a dog with me too to share the back at night. Don't know how that's going to go for either of us. lol
Hi just found your channel and subbed. I'm in the East Bay, Walnut Creek. Started car camping in my Hyundai Santa Fe and now have a 4Runner so looking for tips and ideas. I'll check out your other videos. It is so much easier car camping verses setting up a tent and love being able to stealth places.
Hey Tina, thanks for watching! That 4Runner is probably a huge improvement over a Santa Fe for how it sounds like you’re using it. I always wanted a 4Runner but couldn’t justify the ancient EPA rating/fuel economy. I keep thinking maybe as the 6th gen gets a couple model years under its belt that I might upgrade to that down the line. Check out my upgrades/accessories and essential camping items videos as well for more tips and gear I recommend!
Nice video. I really liked that you saved your 'used' water for reusing, especially in the case of a fire. You're the 1st I've seen do this. Stay safe! :)
I find tents just aren't worth the effort a lot of the time. Setting up isn't so bad, but leaving you have to sweep them out (if more than 2-4 person tent), then you have to dry the bottom, it's just a lot of work if you are at a spot for just one night. It just makes a lot more sense (to me) to just make your bed in your vehicle.
Yeah, I have a Gazelle hub tent that pops up/comes down really quickly that I use if I’m somewhere warm/ staying in a place for more than one night/ camping with my girlfriend, but I agree-the more solo exploration I do in the car going from spot to spot and sometimes only staying for a night it’s waaaay easier to just sleep in the car, and sometimes warmer too!
OMG 😳 too Funny!!! I didn't build a platform either within my 2010 Rav Limited... Walmart exercise mat that I store against Rav s celling when not used .. Walmart 4inch memory foam mattress rolled up behind driver's seat.. .. WattFun Power Station mounted off Rav floor. Simple clothes and cookware in Rav s rear storage area.. extremely clean and functional setup..
thanks for showing your set up. I plan to purchase a Rav 4 and do some camping in it. I love Doug, but feel that he needs a larger container with all the time he spends in it. It appears he sleeps in it overnight too.
Hey, thanks for watching, Janice! This video is from when Doug was just a fresh lil puppy. He's grown since then, and so has his crate! Most of the time these days he rides in the back seat, sitting cozy in a car bed and harnessed in to his own doggie seatbelt, and when we sleep in the car he usually starts curled up at my feet in my sleeping bag and eventually makes his way to his own bed by the morning, or vice versa :)
I've been waiting for a video like this!!! I'm in a Honda CRV and I have a roof rack. I do not want to get rid of my roof rack, because it was a gift from my son. I can't put a Thule or other roof top storage box on my SUV, because it won't fit in the roof rack. I was curious how much those ROAM boxes would hold, and now I know. I do worry about theft though. Of course, someone could steal my Thule box, too. I'm really considering going this route. Thanks for the video.
One thing you could maybe do if you wanted to have a roof basket AND a roof box is get some longer aftermarket crossbars from Thule or Yakima. You'll notice mine are wider than the roof rails on the car so that I could put the basket on the roof and have enough room to have it fit between the two bike racks. You could easily do the same and have a basket on one side for lighter gear/dirty things/firewood and the box on the other for security/things you want to keep out of the elements. As for theft, I'm constantly concerned about it. Living in the Bay Area, I just had one of my windows smashed last Wednesday--luckily they didn't take anything, but it's still always front of mind. I will say that most of the time when they're on the roof and the car is set up in this fashion as a camper, I'm usually with the vehicle most of the time, or out in remote enough areas that my fear of theft is alleviated a little bit. I also like that they do have a channel for a cable lock to lock the box to the roof basket, and can be locked at the latches as well, but as I pointed out in the video, it would be nice if that channel were just slightly wider to accommodate a larger, sturdier cable lock. All said though, I still think the ROAM boxes were a great investment over something like a Plano case, and I would highly recommend them.
@@brendansoutdoors377 I looked into the ROAM boxes - yeah, they are quite pricey. Trying to find a cheaper brand, but then again - cheaper brand means they may not last as long. So aggravating trying to decide what to do. I'm building a floating shelf inside, so I'm hoping that will help with some storage issues. I still need to figure something out for my outdoor gear. I have no room for it inside. I was thinking about trying those rifle cases. They come with inserts, and I can just remove them. Not sure. THANK YOU for replying and giving me some good information.
Thanks for watching, Christian! I’m 6’6” and to sleep comfortably I have to move the passenger seat all the way forward, but it actually works. I can’t sit up in bed, obviously, but it works for solo exploration!
Hi from UK! Great video and especially the sunset! Do you have the premium spec with the 1500W power outlet in the boot? And is this what you plug the fridge into, or do you use 12v and let the big battery top that up (assuming PHEV variant)? Cheers
Hey Chris, Thanks for watching! If you like that one you should check out my video about camping in the Rav at Oceano Dunes (ruclips.net/video/MAb89HXxSRM/видео.html) or my most recent one in the Alabama Hills of CA (ruclips.net/video/F5Rm_pfAIC8/видео.html). I'm not sure if there's a different model with different power outlets in the UK, but in the States the back of the Rav4 has a 12v "cigarette lighter" style plug point and a 120V/100W "household style" plug. Also the Rav4 TRD Off-Road is a gas model of the car, not a hybrid, or PHEV. I actually plug the fridge using it's 12v plug into an external battery--a Jackery 500--and then plug the battery into the car. That way while I'm driving the power from the car's battery tops up the Jackery and runs the fridge, and then when I turn the car off the fridge runs solely off the Jackery so that it can remain on while the car is off. I hope that's a helpful explanation....let me know if you have any other questions!
I just can't get away with that cause of the headroom and length issues I would encounter being a tall person trying to sleep on a platform in a Rav, but I hope it turns out great! I had a couple thinner Therm-a-rest mattresses that made the dip SUPER noticeable, but that Exped mattress is so dang comfortable it really makes the uneven floor thing a concern of the past, combined with my janky yoga mat stop-gap, that is.
@@brendansoutdoors377 glad that works for you. I’m 6’2” and the platform will only add 3/4” more height at the top of the back seats and about 7-8” at the foot end. Bad backs suck-so perfectly flat is a must for me.
Thanks for watching, Aaron! I'd been eyeing the Rough Country 2.5in lift/leveling kit, but also weighing the pros and cons of trading in the Rav TRD for a 6th gen 4Runner when they release that. It was supposed to happen early next year, so my choice is either put some work into it to make it more off-road worthy, or trade up to a larger, purpose built truck. I've also heard that they might delay the release of the 6th gen 4Runner until 2024, so we'll see what happens in the coming year, with supply chain issues and gas prices and whatever other craziness the world keeps tossing at us. It might well be impossible to get a new car/truck next year so I might just stick with ole Scarlet. I've always wanted a 4Runner, but living in the Bay Area where getting to any fun off-road trails involves driving a bit out of the way, which would involve using a bunch of gas just to get somewhere fun--I just couldn't justify it. Maybe someday if they update the transmission to coax more than 17 mpg out of it--which this new model year supposedly does it might get me to switch, but for now the Rav4 is a good mix of comfortability, utility, dirt road accessibility and reasonable mpg.
@@brendansoutdoors377 Thanks for the reply. I’ve read the LP Adventure lift is one of the best for the RAV4 if you’re going for spacer kits because it is the most complete and allows for lots of adjustment. It’s only a 1.5” lift though, However, I believe the TRD has an electronically controlled suspension and have read some spacer kits are not compatible. Another RUclipsr, Lunar Lander Xplorer, seems to have lifted his TRD although I’m not sure what kit he used. He traverses a lot of the same terrain do in Cali. I’m probably going to get a Hybrid and use it mostly for commuting in Houston but I’d like to be able to go on some off-road excursions on the weekends. I want a lift that isn’t super tall and doesn’t compromise my ride quality and MPG’s that much.
Yeah I've actually asked him the same question you asked me, but he hasn't gotten back to me yet. I sometimes think that the sweet spot would be to get the hybrid, lift that and put slightly larger all-terrain tires on it, especially with gas prices the way they are now, so that's not a bad idea.
How tall are you? I am 6'3/6'4 and considering a RAV4 for the exact application you're using it for; a daily driver most of the time with the ability to camp in it when I wanna go on road trips or camp trips. I'm wondering if this car will be long enough for me? Thanks!! Edit: Just saw you have your height in the description, thank you! haha ill keep this comment up just cause you've inspired me with your lifestyle and camping set up and adorable pup. thanks for this vid :)
I'm amazed that anyone ever actually reads the description! Thanks for watching, and reading! At your height it's definitely do-able, as evidenced by my tall self sleeping in there. Bear in mind that for optimum comfort you're going to have to push one or both of the front seats all the way forward to stretch out on a mattress/camp roll in the back, and you're going to have to bridge the gap between the folded rear seat and the front seats somehow. I usually just put my water jug/other tall extra gear there to support the mattress.
He’s about a year and a half old and when I adopted him they told me he was a terrier/chihuahua mix. I’m pretty sure he’s a Markiesje (Dutch Tulip Hound): en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markiesje
Hello. Do you mind if I ask you how much you paid for that car? Just like you camping with a rav4 is one of my dreams and it seems like the used ones cost more than the new ones. I'm confused.
I certainly don't have all the answers as to what's going on with the automotive industry right now, but there's a distinct blend of actual product shortages due to the pandemic and good ole fashioned dealership price gouging. This shortage of inventory on parts and finished vehicles is causing a shortage, imposed or not, on inventory at lots and is driving prices for new and used vehicles higher than they have traditionally been. This makes the already-daunting task of purchasing a new vehicle even tougher, but also puts people who already have vehicles in a unique position of power over automakers because their existing assets that were traditionally supposed to depreciate in value as soon as they leave the lot are sometimes increasing in value. I was in a unique place as I had started a lease on this vehicle in February of 2020 and by the time that lease was over the value of the vehicle had increased (!) nearly $12k higher than the residual buyout price quoted in the lease contract, and was nearly equivalent to the sticker price for the car when it was new, which is unheard of! It's almost the exact opposite of how the car-leasing process usually works. It definitely wasn't the case when the lease on my 2017 Rav4 was over and I was shopping this current 2020 Rav4 in February of 2020 before we all know what happened in March. At the end of the lease on the 2020, some dealerships and car-buying websites were quoting me buyout prices on the car that were, as you were saying, almost the same price, if not more, for a 2020 Rav4 as a 2023 Rav4. The car hasn't changed very much in the difference between model years, so it didn't make sense for me to give the car back to Toyota and start a new lease on a newer Rav4 or another vehicle, negating any positive equity I had built during the lease and giving them back a vehicle that they could sell to someone else for nearly $12k more than I could buy it for. By this logic, I was buying a great used car at a ridiculous price for the market, and I already knew the vehicle was in good condition because I was the one who had been using and maintaining it for the last three years. While it wasn't the position I was expecting in which to be at the end of my lease, it was also a position too good to pass up, so I bought the car. Sometimes I think about selling it and making that profit, but then I have to shop for another vehicle in this insane auto market and the Rav4 is a great car that has served me well thus far for the things I need/like to do with it--plus the car I would replace it with would likely be a 4Runner and the dealership markup on those is always insane, pandemic or not.
Thanks man! I really like your Rav too, and I've been a subscriber of yours for a while now. How's that lift working out for you, and have you put any larger tires on there yet or just sticking with the OEM Wildpeaks? Also, which lift did you choose? Like most niche gear, the Geyser has its pros and cons. It's a fun, almost gimmicky bit of kit to have when you've gone a couple days out in the backcountry without a shower, but there are some drawbacks that make me question whether to bring it out with me every time, even to wash dishes, which is their alternate promoted use-case scenario. Sometimes it's just easier to heat up a little bit of water in a pot on the camp stove and just use a sponge/loofa, cause that's essentially what you're doing with the Geyser, and with even less water too! I've also had several issues with the hose bits on it due to a product-wide manufacturing error, but to their credit, their customer service was super responsive and fixed the issue. I'd been thinking about making a review video about the Geyser, and I think this comment has pushed me further toward that, so stay tuned for that, and thanks for watching!
@@brendansoutdoors377 The lift has been awesome. We are on the rough country 2.5" spacers + DENDOFF stiffer rear coils. It has made a huge difference. Also just recently upgraded to larger & wider tires that add another inch of lift (they are 2" taller than stock". Got the Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires and they have been great (except they have lowered our MPGs by a bit - oh well). Where are you located? We are in the East Bay.
Glad to hear the lift is working out! Did you switch your wheels up with the larger tires or keep the OEM TRD wheels? Also why not switch out the front coils as well? I'm over in San Francisco. You know its funny--I've camped in one of the same spots you guys did on your Big Sur trip. I was watching and i was like "I was just there!"
Awesome setup you have man. Hey they make really good hitch kits that you could get and install yourself. It's easy instead of having the dealer do it. How do you like the Rav4 TRD? Seems like a really good off roader that's practical
Hey thanks! Yeah I've looked into the aftermarket hitch set, the issue I see with them is this: The OEM one actually gets set into the bumper (which they have to cut a hole in) against the frame of the vehicle while aftermarket ones hang a bit lower, causing the vehicle to lose a bit of ground clearance. Without a lift, the Rav needs all the help it can get in the height department! Re: your question about the car. I love it, though sometimes I wish it had more interior room for cargo/sleeping and was actually a bit more "off-road" worthy than the badge indicates. I've always loved and wanted a 4Runner, and I sometimes wish I had gone that route, but I couldn't justify the ancient transmission/fuel economy, so I went with the Rav. There's a small part of me that wishes I had just bought an AWD Sienna and put the Journey's Off-Road Lift Kit and some BFG's on there and had a nice little commuter/adventure van.....i still might, cause I keep thinking about it! As it stands, the Rav4 is a nice compromise between those two ideas. I fit in it if I'm trying to car camp solo and it's done a great job of getting me out and back to more wild places in the last several years, plus (and I know this is kinda dumb but whatever) I really love the flame pearl red color, so i'm happy with it.
Hah! I see we have a fellow @NikkiDelventhal fan? I don’t, actually. This version of the RAV4 isn’t a hybrid, so for the HVAC to work effectively I’d have to run the engine all night, which isn’t kind to the environment or my wallet. I usually vent the windows and/or sleep with the moonroof open. I have a couple of those window screens that pull over the window so you can roll it down but prevent bugs from getting in, and those work fine in campgrounds and other remote areas. Some people use usb powered fans, but I haven’t camped in my car anywhere where it’s been hot enough to necessitate buying one of those, yet…….
I would recommend at least the 500 watt version (amzn.to/3Yr4suk). You can plug the Jackery into the car so that it will charge while the car is on and then plug exterior electronics like a fridge/freezer or fan into the Jackery to run them while the car is off. If you plan on being stationary in one spot while camping or out for more than a couple days I would also recommend their SolarSaga 100w solar panel (amzn.to/3qtdRVI) to keep your battery topped up and operational while using your fridge/other electronics while your car is off.
@brendanahern2603 I'm gonna be doing deliveries like doordash and instacart every day so a lot of driving and stopping and going... not sure if this changes anything you recommended
I'm 6'7'', and though I have to push the passenger seat all the way forward to sleep inside the car at all, with the right mattress I've been quite comfortable. In this video I was sleeping on an Exped MegaMat LXW, but I've also used a combination of multiple Therm-a-Rest pads to combat the dip in the load floor between the back and the folded-down rear seats of the vehicle. I also use my water jug as a support for the upper/head area of the mattress. Would I want to do this for a month? Probably not, I think a week might be the limit to how I'd want to travel with this setup, but for a quick overnight, or a weekend its perfectly comfortable. I've never really gone more than a couple days traveling in this configuration though, so who knows? The Exped is definitely the most comfortable camping mattress I've ever used, and I actually bought the LXW (for one person) after getting the MegaMat Duo a couple years ago so that my girlfriend would be comfortable sleeping when she came on camping trips with me. Highly recommend both mattresses.
Not sure. Was told at the SPCA that he's a terrier/chihuahua mix. I'm kind of convinced he's a markiesje/dutch tulip hound: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markiesje
![Seungmin "그렇게, 천천히, 우리(As we are)" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/kAzmhLHePqU/mqdefault.jpg)
As a small dog owner, I appreciate you keeping your doggie on a leash! 🙂
Yeah, gotta be responsible with our furry friends, right? Plus, he's cute, but he can also be a tiny terror, so better to be safe than sorry.
Awesome video Bay Area peep! Recently purchased a 2023 Hybrid Woodland Edition. Hope Bay Area RAV4 owners can get an outdoor gather soon!
Thanks for watching!
You can get a third-party hitch for a fairly inexpensive price. I have a Yakima. Its 450 liters but I do keep it on full time. Great set up and I hope you have many adventures!
Very true! And Yakima makes great stuff--I actually have a Yakima OffGrid roof basket on my roof right now. My biggest concern with most third-party hitches is that you lose a bit of ground clearance that you don't with the OEM hitch, and while I don't have a lift on the Rav4 I need all the ground clearance I can get!
Nice setup, especially the roof storage. Totally agree with you on not building a platform. Just doesn’t make sense for me, and I’m only 5’8”. I enjoy the versatility it provides. I go with a cheap ozark foam base pad (those foldable ones) and a decent thermarest basecamp on top. I made my own window blackouts that look just like yours. I got one of those sunroof magnetic screens for moisture control and use a UCO single candle lantern for heat (used some wire to attach a mini clay pot to it for heat retention). I have a 2016 Mazda CX-5*
Yeah, building a platform didn't make a lot of sense for me for the height reasons, but also I live in an apartment building and don't have the storage room to remove a platform system from the car when I'm not using it. Thanks for watching!
thanks for sharing all the items you use. I currently have a Class C motorhome (1999), and am wanting to travel longer distances so exploring using my RAV4 as a car camper. Much appreciate your video.
Yeah I can imagine the gas mileage on a class C isn't great, but the convenience of having an entire home on wheels probably can't be beat--except when you have to parallel park the dang thing! The Rav4 is a pretty capable and efficient little car and I've been impressed with it thus far.
Check out some of the other videos on my channel to see the car in action like this one at Oceano Beach, CA: ruclips.net/video/MAb89HXxSRM/видео.html
I have never been to CA or traveled alone, but I am a teacher and have some time this summer. Think I may take your lead in my rav4!
Can you link your Jerrycan? I can’t find one with a lower water dispenser
Do it! I know it seems scary, but I love traveling alone. You go at your own pace, at the inspiration of your own thoughts and ideas. Go where you want, when you want, stop when you want, where you want. I know some people find it lonely and desperately need someone to talk to at all times, I just don't have that compulsion and when I do-- hey, that's why I have Doug around :).
The jerrycan is made by Reliance. It looks like they've made a 2.0 version of it which includes a screw-on air release valve cap instead of the squirt-gun style one they have on mine ( a vast improvement!): relianceoutdoors.com/collections/aqua-storage/products/jumbo-tainer-7g-26l
Thanks for watching!
We did this when we went camping back in the 70’S
Good to know some things never change. If it ain’t broke, right?
I’m getting inspired. Thanks for the good show!
Glad to hear it! Thanks for watching!
You should try looking into cots. I live in my Adventure tram rav 4. For like $300 you can get a cot that goes the entire length of the back. It makes a huge difference having that little bit of storage and it's not being an air has legs so you don't need anything behind past your seat to support it. Also you have a nice memory foam mattress.
Huh, that’s an interesting idea….how tall are you? How high up off the ground/back of the car is the cot? Do you have any pictures?
appreciated this. got myself an '21 xle back in august. i'm ready for some escapism.
Thanks! The Rav4 is a pretty capable platform, as long as you're not expecting to go rockcrawling in Utah or something--get out there!
I like your no-build setup, great considerations for long-term leasing
Glad you think so! Thanks for watching Susie :)
Hi, I wanted to let you know that you can go to any Uhaul dealer (the best ones are near a military base) and they do a fantastic job of installing a hitch on your RAV4. The one near Barksdale AFB did mine and they were by far the least expensive. I called multiple places within a 4-hour radius. I made an appointment and was in and out less than half an hour.
Hey thanks for the heads up! I've actually looked into this and the difference between the OEM hitch and aftermarket ones such as can be purchased and installed at a UHaul is that the OEM one sits closer to the frame of the vehicle and actually gets cut into the lower rear bumper valance, whereas the aftermarket ones hang a bit lower.
For most folks this isn't a big deal, but ground clearance is a concern when taking a vehicle off-road, and because the Rav4 only has 8.6 inches from the factory--even on the TRD model, which is a real head-slapper--every inch away from the ground counts!
The only reasons I would use a tow hitch are for a bike rack or for a full-size spare tire carrier swing-out. For now, I'm satisfied with my back racks on the roof, and a full size spare fits in the trunk where the donut is if you remove some of the styrofoam, but I've yet to get one. That's on the list of upgrades for sure, though!
I really like your simple set up and all the great storage ideas!
Thanks Rosie! Glad you enjoyed it and got some good ideas :)
I took out backseat in my w/ help from a utoob vid. Built a small plywood platform with short 2x4s for support to the floor and edge of battery box (I have a hybrid).
Nice--I've likely seen similar vids and have thought about doing the same, cause it seems like removing the back seat would allow for more headroom inside the car when in sitting up in "bed," but I still need my back seat for people or dogs to use sometimes. Additionally, I don't have a garage, so I don't really have a place to store removed seats when not in use.
@@brendansoutdoors377 I just got this rav4 hybrid and I'm leaving Michigan in a couple days to hike in SW around Silver City, NM. Have a dog with me too to share the back at night. Don't know how that's going to go for either of us. lol
Hi just found your channel and subbed. I'm in the East Bay, Walnut Creek. Started car camping in my Hyundai Santa Fe and now have a 4Runner so looking for tips and ideas. I'll check out your other videos. It is so much easier car camping verses setting up a tent and love being able to stealth places.
Hey Tina, thanks for watching! That 4Runner is probably a huge improvement over a Santa Fe for how it sounds like you’re using it. I always wanted a 4Runner but couldn’t justify the ancient EPA rating/fuel economy. I keep thinking maybe as the 6th gen gets a couple model years under its belt that I might upgrade to that down the line.
Check out my upgrades/accessories and essential camping items videos as well for more tips and gear I recommend!
Great ideas to improve my RAV4. Thanks for the video, safe adventures.
Thanks for watching!
Nice video. I really liked that you saved your 'used' water for reusing, especially in the case of a fire. You're the 1st I've seen do this. Stay safe! :)
Thanks Jannah! Every drop counts!
Great rig you got they're, great explanation too. Looks like fun also what a beautiful spot
Thanks Dave! Glad you enjoyed it :)
I find tents just aren't worth the effort a lot of the time. Setting up isn't so bad, but leaving you have to sweep them out (if more than 2-4 person tent), then you have to dry the bottom, it's just a lot of work if you are at a spot for just one night. It just makes a lot more sense (to me) to just make your bed in your vehicle.
Yeah, I have a Gazelle hub tent that pops up/comes down really quickly that I use if I’m somewhere warm/ staying in a place for more than one night/ camping with my girlfriend, but I agree-the more solo exploration I do in the car going from spot to spot and sometimes only staying for a night it’s waaaay easier to just sleep in the car, and sometimes warmer too!
OMG 😳 too Funny!!! I didn't build a platform either within my 2010 Rav Limited... Walmart exercise mat that I store against Rav s celling when not used .. Walmart 4inch memory foam mattress rolled up behind driver's seat.. .. WattFun Power Station mounted off Rav floor. Simple clothes and cookware in Rav s rear storage area.. extremely clean and functional setup..
Thanks for watching!
nice! I am planning to get a RAV4 too.
Good choice! They're very capable crossover SUV's
thanks for showing your set up. I plan to purchase a Rav 4 and do some camping in it. I love Doug, but feel that he needs a larger container with all the time he spends in it. It appears he sleeps in it overnight too.
Hey, thanks for watching, Janice!
This video is from when Doug was just a fresh lil puppy. He's grown since then, and so has his crate! Most of the time these days he rides in the back seat, sitting cozy in a car bed and harnessed in to his own doggie seatbelt, and when we sleep in the car he usually starts curled up at my feet in my sleeping bag and eventually makes his way to his own bed by the morning, or vice versa :)
@@brendansoutdoors377 that sounds wonderful. Dogs are family for sure!!
I've been waiting for a video like this!!! I'm in a Honda CRV and I have a roof rack. I do not want to get rid of my roof rack, because it was a gift from my son. I can't put a Thule or other roof top storage box on my SUV, because it won't fit in the roof rack. I was curious how much those ROAM boxes would hold, and now I know. I do worry about theft though. Of course, someone could steal my Thule box, too. I'm really considering going this route. Thanks for the video.
One thing you could maybe do if you wanted to have a roof basket AND a roof box is get some longer aftermarket crossbars from Thule or Yakima. You'll notice mine are wider than the roof rails on the car so that I could put the basket on the roof and have enough room to have it fit between the two bike racks. You could easily do the same and have a basket on one side for lighter gear/dirty things/firewood and the box on the other for security/things you want to keep out of the elements.
As for theft, I'm constantly concerned about it. Living in the Bay Area, I just had one of my windows smashed last Wednesday--luckily they didn't take anything, but it's still always front of mind. I will say that most of the time when they're on the roof and the car is set up in this fashion as a camper, I'm usually with the vehicle most of the time, or out in remote enough areas that my fear of theft is alleviated a little bit. I also like that they do have a channel for a cable lock to lock the box to the roof basket, and can be locked at the latches as well, but as I pointed out in the video, it would be nice if that channel were just slightly wider to accommodate a larger, sturdier cable lock. All said though, I still think the ROAM boxes were a great investment over something like a Plano case, and I would highly recommend them.
@@brendansoutdoors377 I looked into the ROAM boxes - yeah, they are quite pricey. Trying to find a cheaper brand, but then again - cheaper brand means they may not last as long. So aggravating trying to decide what to do. I'm building a floating shelf inside, so I'm hoping that will help with some storage issues. I still need to figure something out for my outdoor gear. I have no room for it inside. I was thinking about trying those rifle cases. They come with inserts, and I can just remove them. Not sure. THANK YOU for replying and giving me some good information.
Great video and adventure as always!
Thanks for watching as always!
Nice job! Excellent scenery!
Glad you liked it! Thanks for watching :)
"not a sponsor but definitely delicious" HA! goldfish are my jam
Right!? I’m a Parmesan man, sometimes a flavor blasted Pizza kinda guy-what’s your go-to?
@@brendansoutdoors377 original cheddar girl here. Big fan of the cheddar jalapeno megas too though!
Nice setup , thanks for the video, how tall are you ? I looking for a rav 4 I’m 6’3
Thanks for watching, Christian! I’m 6’6” and to sleep comfortably I have to move the passenger seat all the way forward, but it actually works. I can’t sit up in bed, obviously, but it works for solo exploration!
Hi from UK! Great video and especially the sunset! Do you have the premium spec with the 1500W power outlet in the boot? And is this what you plug the fridge into, or do you use 12v and let the big battery top that up (assuming PHEV variant)? Cheers
Hey Chris,
Thanks for watching! If you like that one you should check out my video about camping in the Rav at Oceano Dunes (ruclips.net/video/MAb89HXxSRM/видео.html) or my most recent one in the Alabama Hills of CA (ruclips.net/video/F5Rm_pfAIC8/видео.html).
I'm not sure if there's a different model with different power outlets in the UK, but in the States the back of the Rav4 has a 12v "cigarette lighter" style plug point and a 120V/100W "household style" plug. Also the Rav4 TRD Off-Road is a gas model of the car, not a hybrid, or PHEV.
I actually plug the fridge using it's 12v plug into an external battery--a Jackery 500--and then plug the battery into the car. That way while I'm driving the power from the car's battery tops up the Jackery and runs the fridge, and then when I turn the car off the fridge runs solely off the Jackery so that it can remain on while the car is off. I hope that's a helpful explanation....let me know if you have any other questions!
very clever. thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
I couldn’t deal with the seats not coming completely flat even with tons of padding. Building a platform now.
I just can't get away with that cause of the headroom and length issues I would encounter being a tall person trying to sleep on a platform in a Rav, but I hope it turns out great!
I had a couple thinner Therm-a-rest mattresses that made the dip SUPER noticeable, but that Exped mattress is so dang comfortable it really makes the uneven floor thing a concern of the past, combined with my janky yoga mat stop-gap, that is.
@@brendansoutdoors377 glad that works for you. I’m 6’2” and the platform will only add 3/4” more height at the top of the back seats and about 7-8” at the foot end. Bad backs suck-so perfectly flat is a must for me.
Beautiful. Subscribing. 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks for the sub!
I was wondering if you’re planning on getting a lift kit and if so which one? Thank you for making all of this great content!
Thanks for watching, Aaron!
I'd been eyeing the Rough Country 2.5in lift/leveling kit, but also weighing the pros and cons of trading in the Rav TRD for a 6th gen 4Runner when they release that. It was supposed to happen early next year, so my choice is either put some work into it to make it more off-road worthy, or trade up to a larger, purpose built truck. I've also heard that they might delay the release of the 6th gen 4Runner until 2024, so we'll see what happens in the coming year, with supply chain issues and gas prices and whatever other craziness the world keeps tossing at us. It might well be impossible to get a new car/truck next year so I might just stick with ole Scarlet.
I've always wanted a 4Runner, but living in the Bay Area where getting to any fun off-road trails involves driving a bit out of the way, which would involve using a bunch of gas just to get somewhere fun--I just couldn't justify it. Maybe someday if they update the transmission to coax more than 17 mpg out of it--which this new model year supposedly does it might get me to switch, but for now the Rav4 is a good mix of comfortability, utility, dirt road accessibility and reasonable mpg.
@@brendansoutdoors377 Thanks for the reply. I’ve read the LP Adventure lift is one of the best for the RAV4 if you’re going for spacer kits because it is the most complete and allows for lots of adjustment. It’s only a 1.5” lift though, However, I believe the TRD has an electronically controlled suspension and have read some spacer kits are not compatible. Another RUclipsr, Lunar Lander Xplorer, seems to have lifted his TRD although I’m not sure what kit he used. He traverses a lot of the same terrain do in Cali. I’m probably going to get a Hybrid and use it mostly for commuting in Houston but I’d like to be able to go on some off-road excursions on the weekends. I want a lift that isn’t super tall and doesn’t compromise my ride quality and MPG’s that much.
Yeah I've actually asked him the same question you asked me, but he hasn't gotten back to me yet. I sometimes think that the sweet spot would be to get the hybrid, lift that and put slightly larger all-terrain tires on it, especially with gas prices the way they are now, so that's not a bad idea.
How tall are you? I am 6'3/6'4 and considering a RAV4 for the exact application you're using it for; a daily driver most of the time with the ability to camp in it when I wanna go on road trips or camp trips. I'm wondering if this car will be long enough for me? Thanks!!
Edit: Just saw you have your height in the description, thank you! haha ill keep this comment up just cause you've inspired me with your lifestyle and camping set up and adorable pup. thanks for this vid :)
I'm amazed that anyone ever actually reads the description! Thanks for watching, and reading!
At your height it's definitely do-able, as evidenced by my tall self sleeping in there. Bear in mind that for optimum comfort you're going to have to push one or both of the front seats all the way forward to stretch out on a mattress/camp roll in the back, and you're going to have to bridge the gap between the folded rear seat and the front seats somehow. I usually just put my water jug/other tall extra gear there to support the mattress.
First time came across your video.What breed and how old is your Pup?
He’s about a year and a half old and when I adopted him they told me he was a terrier/chihuahua mix. I’m pretty sure he’s a Markiesje (Dutch Tulip Hound): en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markiesje
Hello. Do you mind if I ask you how much you paid for that car? Just like you camping with a rav4 is one of my dreams and it seems like the used ones cost more than the new ones. I'm confused.
I certainly don't have all the answers as to what's going on with the automotive industry right now, but there's a distinct blend of actual product shortages due to the pandemic and good ole fashioned dealership price gouging. This shortage of inventory on parts and finished vehicles is causing a shortage, imposed or not, on inventory at lots and is driving prices for new and used vehicles higher than they have traditionally been. This makes the already-daunting task of purchasing a new vehicle even tougher, but also puts people who already have vehicles in a unique position of power over automakers because their existing assets that were traditionally supposed to depreciate in value as soon as they leave the lot are sometimes increasing in value.
I was in a unique place as I had started a lease on this vehicle in February of 2020 and by the time that lease was over the value of the vehicle had increased (!) nearly $12k higher than the residual buyout price quoted in the lease contract, and was nearly equivalent to the sticker price for the car when it was new, which is unheard of! It's almost the exact opposite of how the car-leasing process usually works. It definitely wasn't the case when the lease on my 2017 Rav4 was over and I was shopping this current 2020 Rav4 in February of 2020 before we all know what happened in March.
At the end of the lease on the 2020, some dealerships and car-buying websites were quoting me buyout prices on the car that were, as you were saying, almost the same price, if not more, for a 2020 Rav4 as a 2023 Rav4. The car hasn't changed very much in the difference between model years, so it didn't make sense for me to give the car back to Toyota and start a new lease on a newer Rav4 or another vehicle, negating any positive equity I had built during the lease and giving them back a vehicle that they could sell to someone else for nearly $12k more than I could buy it for.
By this logic, I was buying a great used car at a ridiculous price for the market, and I already knew the vehicle was in good condition because I was the one who had been using and maintaining it for the last three years. While it wasn't the position I was expecting in which to be at the end of my lease, it was also a position too good to pass up, so I bought the car. Sometimes I think about selling it and making that profit, but then I have to shop for another vehicle in this insane auto market and the Rav4 is a great car that has served me well thus far for the things I need/like to do with it--plus the car I would replace it with would likely be a 4Runner and the dealership markup on those is always insane, pandemic or not.
@@brendansoutdoors377 Thank you!
Nice set up! Been looking into that Geyser shower system. How has that worked out for you?
Thanks man! I really like your Rav too, and I've been a subscriber of yours for a while now. How's that lift working out for you, and have you put any larger tires on there yet or just sticking with the OEM Wildpeaks? Also, which lift did you choose?
Like most niche gear, the Geyser has its pros and cons. It's a fun, almost gimmicky bit of kit to have when you've gone a couple days out in the backcountry without a shower, but there are some drawbacks that make me question whether to bring it out with me every time, even to wash dishes, which is their alternate promoted use-case scenario. Sometimes it's just easier to heat up a little bit of water in a pot on the camp stove and just use a sponge/loofa, cause that's essentially what you're doing with the Geyser, and with even less water too!
I've also had several issues with the hose bits on it due to a product-wide manufacturing error, but to their credit, their customer service was super responsive and fixed the issue.
I'd been thinking about making a review video about the Geyser, and I think this comment has pushed me further toward that, so stay tuned for that, and thanks for watching!
@@brendansoutdoors377 The lift has been awesome. We are on the rough country 2.5" spacers + DENDOFF stiffer rear coils. It has made a huge difference. Also just recently upgraded to larger & wider tires that add another inch of lift (they are 2" taller than stock". Got the Falken Wildpeak AT3W tires and they have been great (except they have lowered our MPGs by a bit - oh well). Where are you located? We are in the East Bay.
Glad to hear the lift is working out! Did you switch your wheels up with the larger tires or keep the OEM TRD wheels? Also why not switch out the front coils as well?
I'm over in San Francisco. You know its funny--I've camped in one of the same spots you guys did on your Big Sur trip. I was watching and i was like "I was just there!"
Awesome setup you have man. Hey they make really good hitch kits that you could get and install yourself. It's easy instead of having the dealer do it. How do you like the Rav4 TRD? Seems like a really good off roader that's practical
Hey thanks! Yeah I've looked into the aftermarket hitch set, the issue I see with them is this: The OEM one actually gets set into the bumper (which they have to cut a hole in) against the frame of the vehicle while aftermarket ones hang a bit lower, causing the vehicle to lose a bit of ground clearance. Without a lift, the Rav needs all the help it can get in the height department!
Re: your question about the car. I love it, though sometimes I wish it had more interior room for cargo/sleeping and was actually a bit more "off-road" worthy than the badge indicates. I've always loved and wanted a 4Runner, and I sometimes wish I had gone that route, but I couldn't justify the ancient transmission/fuel economy, so I went with the Rav. There's a small part of me that wishes I had just bought an AWD Sienna and put the Journey's Off-Road Lift Kit and some BFG's on there and had a nice little commuter/adventure van.....i still might, cause I keep thinking about it!
As it stands, the Rav4 is a nice compromise between those two ideas. I fit in it if I'm trying to car camp solo and it's done a great job of getting me out and back to more wild places in the last several years, plus (and I know this is kinda dumb but whatever) I really love the flame pearl red color, so i'm happy with it.
Do you run your HVAC all night, like in a hotel Prius?
Hah! I see we have a fellow @NikkiDelventhal fan?
I don’t, actually. This version of the RAV4 isn’t a hybrid, so for the HVAC to work effectively I’d have to run the engine all night, which isn’t kind to the environment or my wallet. I usually vent the windows and/or sleep with the moonroof open. I have a couple of those window screens that pull over the window so you can roll it down but prevent bugs from getting in, and those work fine in campgrounds and other remote areas.
Some people use usb powered fans, but I haven’t camped in my car anywhere where it’s been hot enough to necessitate buying one of those, yet…….
What is the intro song?
It's music I composed in Garageband to score this video, so it doesn't have a name....yet
@@brendansoutdoors377 can you upload it please
@@brendansoutdoors377 also what wattage jackery do you recommend for someone wanting to run a fridge/freezer and a box fan all night in their rav 4?
I would recommend at least the 500 watt version (amzn.to/3Yr4suk). You can plug the Jackery into the car so that it will charge while the car is on and then plug exterior electronics like a fridge/freezer or fan into the Jackery to run them while the car is off. If you plan on being stationary in one spot while camping or out for more than a couple days I would also recommend their SolarSaga 100w solar panel (amzn.to/3qtdRVI) to keep your battery topped up and operational while using your fridge/other electronics while your car is off.
@brendanahern2603 I'm gonna be doing deliveries like doordash and instacart every day so a lot of driving and stopping and going... not sure if this changes anything you recommended
very clever
thanks!
maybe you mentioned, but how tall are you? and are you comfortable sleeping?
I'm 6'7'', and though I have to push the passenger seat all the way forward to sleep inside the car at all, with the right mattress I've been quite comfortable. In this video I was sleeping on an Exped MegaMat LXW, but I've also used a combination of multiple Therm-a-Rest pads to combat the dip in the load floor between the back and the folded-down rear seats of the vehicle. I also use my water jug as a support for the upper/head area of the mattress.
Would I want to do this for a month? Probably not, I think a week might be the limit to how I'd want to travel with this setup, but for a quick overnight, or a weekend its perfectly comfortable. I've never really gone more than a couple days traveling in this configuration though, so who knows?
The Exped is definitely the most comfortable camping mattress I've ever used, and I actually bought the LXW (for one person) after getting the MegaMat Duo a couple years ago so that my girlfriend would be comfortable sleeping when she came on camping trips with me. Highly recommend both mattresses.
@@brendansoutdoors377 thanks so much for reply. Had no clue being there tall you would have room to lie down. Thanks again
Cargo box get an mpg hit. basket not as much plus more diverse.
yes. If I had a garage I might be more interested in the cargo box, but the basket is great for what I'm doing with it.
what kind of dog this that?
Not sure. Was told at the SPCA that he's a terrier/chihuahua mix. I'm kind of convinced he's a markiesje/dutch tulip hound: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Markiesje
lol that trail said no dogs
Lol OOPS 🙄😆
Too long didn't watch: what mattress is that? thanks
It’s an Exped Megamat LXW
this video wasnt it.
k.