Clever Idea for Cargo and Overlanding

[limamike]

... but probably not worth the money ($4,000+).

Saw it on Kevin Kelly's (author, founder of Wired magazine, technologist, etc) Cool Tools. Great website if you've never seen it before. Cool Tools: SwissRoomBox

 

[MeBe4running]

wow, nice! seeing this reminded me of Seattle Mike's build: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/80400-seattlemikes-cargo-project-8.html

Has anyone else done a DIY something similar to Seattle mikes?

 

[limamike]

wow, nice! seeing this reminded me of Seattle Mike's build: http://www.toyota-4runner.org/5th-gen-t4rs/80400-seattlemikes-cargo-project-8.html

Has anyone else done a DIY something similar to Seattle mikes?

I've seen lots of similar setups to SeattleMike's over on the Expedition Portal (check here), but I've never seen one that allows flat storage and has a built-in sink. While I absolutely love the idea of having a purpose-built cargo setup in the back of my truck I would hate that I would be losing all of that surface area for transport of cargo. And, as much as I like the design of the system I linked to above, I would much rather purchase an adventure trailer in the same price range for the same (or better) capability. If it were an order of magnitude less in cost I'd be pulling out the debit card right now!

 

[MeBe4running]

I've seen lots of similar setups to SeattleMike's over on the Expedition Portal (check here), but I've never seen one that allows flat storage and has a built-in sink. While I absolutely love the idea of having a purpose-built cargo setup in the back of my truck I would hate that I would losing all of that surface area for transport of cargo. And, as much as I like the design of the system I linked to above, I would much rather purchase an adventure trailer in the same price range for the same (or better) capability. If it were an order of magnitude less in cost I'd be pulling out the debit card right now!

Those adventure trailers are pretty sweet, though you start adding a few options and your suddenly at $15,000+. I have been turning backwards and forwards as to the best overland sleeping/storage/cooking option for the 5th gen for some time now. The ideal set-up would use the whole vehicle so a trailer is eliminated. It seems your on a similar wave path, please continue to keep us posted with any further ideas. Cheers for sharing the link, some inspiring stuff!

 

[Okki]

There are several ways versions of the swiss room box. But one more pricey than the other.. They are incredible in terms of space usage and functionality though.. I would love to see one in person.

Okki

 

[whodat]

I don't know about you guys, but 4k is cheap for a fine looking brunette that I could take offroading/overlanding whenever I want

 

[Bourbonator]

I have been turning backwards and forwards as to the best overland sleeping/storage/cooking option for the 5th gen for some time now. The ideal set-up would

Be as simple as possible.
1) can stove, or liquid gas. What I use: MSR WhisperLite International Stove for high elevation/cold;
Products - Optimus for everything else
2) Sleeping - Tent. What I use: Mountain Hardwear Ev 2 Person Tent (I use a spring tent in warmer climates)
3) I'd also advise these: Marmot Never Summer 0 Degree Sleeping Bag (unzip, use as blanket) Therm-A-Rest ProLite Plus Sleeping Pad (ultimate comfort)

I can make and break camp in less than 10 minutes. I am able to cook gourmet meals on the trail. I am always warm, and always comfortable. This setup weighs less than 10 lbs and takes up extremely little space. If you think you need a trailer, you're thinking too much. If you want to get outdoors and experience nature at its finest, do it. If you need a cushy toilet seat, sell the 4r and get a RV.

 

[desertred]

Yeah, that's a nice entry price, but what are the maintenance costs going to be? :

 

[Titanpat57]

I had 3 grand in my first trailer...A CL special, with some added mods.

Fun, lightweight,east to set up, and still left the truck open for day trips.

Slept four (two adults on top, two smaller folks below). Trailer was 6' long, 4' wide. Had water, kitchen, awnings, canopy, annex, porta-potti

The biggest problem I had, was gear storage, loading and unloading time. With a trailer, you leave the stuff in it, chuck in some clothes, fill the water tanks, fill the cooler, and your off.

 

[MeBe4running]

I can make and break camp in less than 10 minutes. I am able to cook gourmet meals on the trail. I am always warm, and always comfortable. This setup weighs less than 10 lbs and takes up extremely little space. If you think you need a trailer, you're thinking too much. If you want to get outdoors and experience nature at its finest, do it. If you need a cushy toilet seat, sell the 4r and get a RV.

This was my set up when I was in Alaska for a month living in the back country (no vehicle). It was all we needed and great when we needed to pack up camp and start climbing. We got very creative with the MSR stoves we had, especially towards the end of the trip when food was a little scarce. My utensils where a bowl/spoon/Snow Peak mug.

The point there is thats all you really need. I totally agree with your list and what you have said. I have just been sucked into the overlanding world and seen some amazing platforms that induce comfort and practicality while still being compact.

I thought the backcountry 4runner was a great final setup...

 

[GrantK]

Some more ideas (and products of course) can be found at CAMPA USA | All Terrain Trailers | Camping Trailers |