Honda Element

[LivGolden]

Anyone have experience with a Honda Element? 

I just bought one sight-unseen. I had to. So far, so good - lots of room in the interior. 190,000 miles but I'm told for a Honda which has been taken care of - oil changes and such- that it still has miles to go. 

Drives and sounds like a food truck might but it runs pretty well.

I'm considering adding a bed in the back.

[Kaylee]

I just went from a lifetime of stationwagons to a cargo van, and know what you mean about transitioning to a truck!!!

Got plenty of great advice from GypsyDogs, and a stressful cross-country intro, but am finally feeling cautiously comfortable.

Just take it easy, be 1000 times more cautious & deliberate.
Park farther out where there's fewer vehicles.
If at all possible, park so you won't have to back up.
For example, yesterday I pulled into a Dollar Tree parking lot without carefully scoping it out... and almost immediately realized it was far too tight & crowded for my skill level. Carefully backed out, and parked at the almost empty, much larger lot at the bank across an alley.

Definitely check out the youtube channel "Element Van Life".
He's very methodical... and a sweetie.
That was among the YT channels that I found very useful in general, and if I were just "living out of", would have considered an Element. You nailed it: roomy for an SUV!
It comes across as an excellent starter vehicle for living out of.

When I started experimenting with living in my wagon, last summer, I bought a cheap knockoff of a Thermarest inflatable pad, and that was an excellent cheap way to try out things.
Experiment, and pick folks' brains, both here and elsewhere.

[Snikwahjm]

I’m thinking I saw some very interesting Honda Element build outs on YouTube. Then I’m thinking they have a camping event for Honda elements somewhere east. Maybe search camping in a Honda Element.

[GypsyDogs]

speaking of sleeping surfaces.. I Love using those foam puzzle-mats (gym floor/standing things.. can take some abuse..)
light, good insulation, and durable. (work under mem foam or air mattresses too, to keep you from bottoming out.)
Dogs love them-- I use them in the back of my car - as padding and cush, under a blanket or 2

[ukenukem]

I own one, 2010 105K, wife drives it now. We named it "Eddie." Still runs like the day I bought it.

Anyway, I'm not currently vandwellin' but the Element seats can both be stretched out down to form two full "cots." Might have to take off the headrests and it will only be so comfortable but thought I would chime in.

Bob

[rvpopeye]

Hop aboard Bob .
How did you find us ?

[ukenukem]

Thanks! Google. Day job is a Librarian but many years in computers first. Also on CRVL but this place is weirder so I like it better.

I'm a few years out from retirement and just getting my head into the concept of a "Mobile Man Cave." Been a DIYer all my life so I should be able to set up a basic "Mobile Steel Tent" to scoot around for fun.

Also I play several musical instruments so having a "Band Van" is always handy. I will be looking to attend music fests and camps so having a cheap place to sleep will be nice.

I think the trick will be to make the van comfortable enough for me but not quite comfortable for the Mrs. I really need some me time.

[rvpopeye]

I am pleased to inform you that you are now (and probably have been for quite some time) a lifetime member in the You "Ain't Right" Club ,, others must prove themselves worthy but for you it's automatic. And permanent.
You'll of course now want to read the Y.A.R.C. thread to find out why....did you read the one on CRVL at all ?
Your "Stinkin Badge" is also automatic.

Nowwwww.....THIS place is "weirder" than CRVL ?????
Yeah , right !

[Abnorm]

Damn Musicians…………………...

[rvpopeye]

Sorry A B Norm...al.
Every society has their "illuminati" .

I know a lot about musicians,,,,,,,we are the very essence of "Ain't Rightness" .
Do I really have to give examples ?
I didn't think so....

I hereby award you this for fake sniveling.