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How I Turned My Jeep into a Home in Under $1,000

  • cookse08
  • Jun 26, 2024
  • 3 min read

Instagram, vlogs, and Pinterest overflow with ideas on transforming cars, Jeeps, or vans into cozy traveling homes. I aimed to make my 2020 Jeep Compass Limited aesthetic, functional, comfortable, and budget-friendly.


I embarked on a mission to convert my Jeep into a home for under $1,000. At the end of this journey, I'll share a detailed list of all my purchases and their costs. But first, let me take you on a tour of my new home on wheels...


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Doubling up on blankets, including my cherished baby blanket for extra coziness, is crucial for ensuring a comfortable sleep and preventing sore hips—especially since I almost exclusively sleep on my side.


I use a three-tiered storage cart to keep essentials organized: toiletries in the top drawer, cooking and eating utensils in the middle, and heavier items like food in the bottom drawer for stability.


On the right side, I store extra trash bags and lanterns for easy nighttime navigation. On the left, I keep a fire extinguisher and bear spray within reach for quick access in emergencies.



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I typically set up my cooking stove at the back of the vehicle. This setup allows me to stand comfortably while cooking and provides easy access to spices, ingredients, and cooking utensils.



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On one side of the back seat floor, I keep my camping essentials: a portable stove, pots and pans, a tent, and a folding camping chair. Take a look at those curtains—handcrafted by a fantastic friend! I chose fabric curtains over traditional blackout covers to give my space a cozier, more homelike feel.



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I consider the other side of my vehicle as my makeshift closet, where I store clothes and shoes. Remember, you often wear far less than you think, so packing light and functional is key. However, I've included one elegant outfit and a pair of shoes for special occasions. And yes, those are shark-themed sheets—embrace your unique style and don't shy away from items that might seem "weird" or "childish." After all, this journey is entirely yours.


To maximize floor storage, I removed the headrests from my back seats. I also invested in a back seat extender originally designed for dogs, which provides a few extra inches of space, making it ideal for stretching out comfortably while sleeping.



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The passenger area is primarily used for storage, holding items like my dog's food and toys, my work and gym bag, and dirty clothes. I strive to keep this space flexible to accommodate guests who join me during my travels.



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A picture of my dog, Percy, for everyone's pleasure! Okay, so what did I purchase (links included)?


  • Foam mattress - $77.99

    • PRO TIP - I was having trouble finding an inflattable camping mattress that was comfy and would fit the size of my Jeep. At the brilliant recommendation of a friend, I chose a 3" foam mattress that I cut to fit perfectly in the space. Not only was this a genius idea, it was also cheaper than most of the car camping mattresses I found online.


  • 3 Storage containers - $30





  • Carbon monoxide detecter - $15

    • Your friends and loved ones will appreciate you thinking of your safety on this one.



  • Fabric for curtains that my friend made for free - $5

  • Bedding - $80

  • Camping gear (chair, dishes, portable stove, misc.) - $125.58

    • I received a tent, fire starter and camping pot and stove for Christmas so no cost for these items.

    • I opted for a butane portable stove because it is safer to use inside the car when the weather is not as pleasant. Just make sure to still crack a window.






I spent a total of $923.58, successfully coming in under budget! Living as a rubber tramp may lack glamour and cleanliness and presents unique challenges compared to conventional lifestyles. However, personalizing your space for maximum coziness and functionality can significantly ease the journey, making the adventure more manageable and enjoyable.







 
 
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