When it comes to small-scale living, this converted truck is an example to follow.
YouTube star Ryan Twomey bought a 1997 Daihatsu Hijet truck in an attempt to convert it into the world’s smallest camper.
In a series of videos, the content creator shows how he picked up the bare vehicle from a parking lot in New Jersey after having it imported from Japan.
On the website autovanjapan.comComparable pickups made in the same year cost from $3,000.
Ryan says he opted for a mini truck that was over 25 years old, which qualifies it as a “historic vehicle” and allows it to legally drive on the road without having to pass “any state safety inspections.”
YouTuber Ryan Twomey bought a 1997 Daihatsu Hijet truck in an attempt to convert it into the world’s smallest camper
In a series of videos, the content creator shows how he picked up the bare vehicle from a parking lot in New Jersey after having it imported from Japan
Although the truck is old, Ryan says it still has some attractive features, including air conditioning and 4×4 drive.
As he sets off, Ryan explains that converting the bus is going to be an ambitious project and that the most important thing he needs to do is build an outer shell to turn it into a living space.
In one scene, he tells viewers, “I really hope this little engine and these little wheels are big enough to hold the weight of a camper on the back.”
With the help of friends, Ryan builds a steel cage structure that he attaches to the back of the truck.
The frame has made the truck a little bigger, Ryan says. The floor space is now about 5 feet by 7 feet.
The spaces he builds consist of a single bed, a small kitchen, a swivel desk and storage space.
In the kitchen, 1.80-meter-tall Ryan has raised the ceiling slightly so he can cook while standing.
Although it’s old, Ryan says the truck still has some attractive features, including air conditioning and 4×4 drive
As he sets off, Ryan explains that converting the bus will be an ambitious project and that the most important thing he needs to do is build an external shell to turn it into a living space.
In the kitchen, the 1.80 meter tall Ryan raises the ceiling slightly so he can cook while standing
He describes the angular roof as a Tesla Cybertruck.
As he cuts into this design, he muses: ‘So this design gives “I have just the amount of standing room I need, but it just looks cool.”
Because he has already converted several vans before, the conversion quickly takes shape.
For the interior, Ryan chose a dark wall and a natural wood ceiling to create a cozy atmosphere.
Once he’s done, the handyman will embark on a 600-mile road trip along the California coast. His latest YouTube clips document the journey.
In a recent Instagram post, he admits the tiny mini truck is a “downgrade” from his previous van conversion, but that it does have some advantages, such as windows and 4×4 drive.
Moreover, its small size makes it easier to park anywhere.
For the interior, Ryan opted for a dark wall and a natural wood ceiling to create a cozy atmosphere
Finally, once he’s done, the handyman sets out on a 600-mile road trip along the California coast and his latest YouTube videos document the journey
In another YouTube video, Ryan reveals that the mini truck also gets a lot of attention from passersby
In another YouTube video, Ryan reveals that the mini truck also attracts a lot of attention from passers-by.
He explains: ‘One of the coolest things about this mini truck is that it doesn’t matter what age you are… it doesn’t matter what race you are, what gender you are… all walks of life come to mind. I think this thing is universally cool for everyone.
I almost don’t know I feel bad when I drive slowly on the road because the people behind me are always looking out the window laughing and honking.
“It’s really great to just drive down the road in the car and put a smile on people’s faces.”
However, Ryan admits that the lack of space is an issue and that, combined with the “paper-thin” driver’s seat and uncomfortable bed, he will “probably have to visit a chiropractor” after his trip.
Many viewers have praised Ryan’s building skills and vision.
A fan wrote: ‘I just wanted to say that this little series is an eye opener to what you can do with a small space to make it livable.’
Another commenter said: ‘After watching your series on van life and now the mini truck series, I’m curious to see what your plans are for the future series on stealth camping!’
