2005 Camperized Honda Element
In 2012, I purchased a 2005 Honda Element with the intention to camperize the interior and prepare it for a cross-Canada/USA road trip. After completing the process, I uploaded a video tour to YouTube and have received many emails -- thank you, I LOVE getting emails! -- with more detailed questions, so I decided to share the answers (and photos and links to other resources) so everyone may benefit. Enjoy!
Original Video
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FAQs
What do you do for water (for handwashing, cleaning dishes, drinking etc)?
I use a 10-litre portable water container and set it up either 1) on the open tailgate and then the overflow drips into a large stainless steel mixing bowl on the ground or 2) I rig up a bungee cord and hang it up above the open tailgate/open rear window and put the stainless steel bowl that acts as a sink to wash my hands/face or dishes.
Does your Element engine have to be on to use the blender?
Yes, correct, it only takes a minute to blend up a smoothie and worth it to me for the minor environmental impact of idling for an extra minute. Although, I did find that my diet got even simpler (just ate the banana/apple/orange whole) and didn't make smoothies every morning like at home.
How/when do you use your solar panels?
I have a Power Monkey portable solar panel/battery, which I use as a backup to charge my cellphone (also took with me on my solo hike in turkey -- worked great!). I use an adapter in the car while driving to charge up my laptop.
How did you make the bed frame/table?
This was a bit of a process! Essentially, I took out the seats, used Gorilla Glue and makeshift bracings to attach wooden frames along the sides and then created the hinged platform. I did use it initially for sleeping (as in photo above) but basically just used the floor space beside it for sleeping and the folded platform for working inside or preparing food if it was pouring outside. Note: I'm going to add more photos of the bed platform soon.
Other Resources I Found Helpful
1. Element Owners Club Forum - The Search option is FULL of threads for bed platform, camping and more.
2. Tiny House Talk has a category for Cars and Van Dwelling for inspiration and ideas (here's my submission) and you can submit your own!
3. YouTube videos I like:
a. The HOTELement
b. more may be added
2. Tiny House Talk has a category for Cars and Van Dwelling for inspiration and ideas (here's my submission) and you can submit your own!
3. YouTube videos I like:
a. The HOTELement
b. more may be added