People are discovering innovative and creative ways to travel the world. With advancements in technology and affordable used cars, we now have the opportunity to build our dream campers and hit the road with everything we need. While some may prefer luxurious motorhomes, others find joy in converting a Japanese crossover into a smart camper. One example is Nate and his dog Bobby, who don’t need a million-dollar RV to explore and be happy.

For his overlander, Nate uses a 2005 Honda CR-V as the base. The second-generation CR-V is a robust and durable SUV with a boxy shape that provides enough interior space to transform it into a cozy living area. Nate, a videographer and photographer, aimed to create a camper that can sleep one person and accommodate all his professional equipment, as well as a comfortable spot for his dog to sleep.

Despite its small size, it’s impressive that this CR-V camper includes a fridge. Nate has installed an electric cooling box below his bed, which is connected to the vehicle’s electric system. He has even added extra insulation to reduce energy consumption and keep his drinks cooler.

To keep such a small space organized, Nate has maximized storage with various drawers. He uses a plastic three-drawer storage organizer and many smaller plastic drawers hidden in different spaces under and around the bed. Bobby, his dog, has his own spot on the front passenger seat, where he sleeps and enjoys the view through the windshield. Finally, Nate has installed a small diesel heater with an integrated exhaust pipe underneath the vehicle.

If you’re considering a life on the road for the next few months with your old SUV, you may be wondering about necessary upgrades and potential difficulties. Nate can provide answers to almost all your questions in the video at the top of this page, where he reviews his 2005 CR-V camper.