Updated 05/17/2025

This is my 2007 Honda CR-V camper for one-person, featuring an easy-to-build DIY bed platform that fits without removing any of the car seats.

Note: I recently upgraded to a 2025 Honda CR-V and have a new build-out. To see my updated camper and all of the gear that I use, see My 2025 Honda CR-V Camper. I’m keeping this older Honda CR-V setup post for anyone with an older vehicle since it uses a DIY bed platform.

Video showing my full setup

Planning the setup

This is our only vehicle, so I was looking for a camping setup that is simple and easy to install – and just as easy to remove. And since I’m the only person sleeping in it, I don’t need a full platform, preferring a single bed platform so there’s more space for gear inside.

The seats in older model CR-Vs don’t fold down flat, and since I didn’t want the hassle of taking them out and storing them, I needed to figure out how to keep them in and still have a bed platform. For the top of the platform, I used a 25″ x 72″ board. To make it easier to to get the board in and out of the car (and for storage), I cut the board into three pieces and added hinges to allow it to fold accordion-style.

To see how I built the platform, check out this post: How to Build a DIY Bed Platform for 2007 Honda CR-V.

This is what my Honda CR-V looks like before setup for camping

To make space for the bed platform, I move the front passenger seat forward as far as it goes. Then I fold down the middle and right back seats, which go under the bed platform. I leave the left back seat up and slide it back as far as it will go. This provides an easy way to get in and of the bed, as well as a place to sit inside. For more leg room, move the driver seat forward.

Window Covers

Heatshield Window Covers: For me, one of the most important items in my camper setup are the window coverings… I wouldn’t want to sleep in my car without them. Not only do they provide privacy, they add a thermal layer on the windows to help retain heat.

I found window covers from Heatshield that are two-sided and custom-fit for older Honda CR-V models. One side is black and the other is reflective gold. For use in cold weather, place the black side out and while the sun is out, it will help warm the interior. The reflective side helps to retain heat inside the vehicle. In warmer weather, place the reflective side facing out to keep the interior cooler. The covers are sized so you can press them into the window frame to stay put, although mine also come with suction cups to keep them in place.

Back Seat Lounger

Since my setup uses a single bed platform, I can use one of the backseats as a lounger – one of my favorite features of my camper. I use it to get in and out of the bed, and it gives me a place to sit up and relax inside. On my first trip, the lounger came in handy when it was dark and raining and I sat inside journaling and then watched a movie before going to bed.

Canopy

Kelty Sideroads Car Awning: I added a canopy to my SUV camper setup so I’d have a place to be out of the rain when cooking. This canopy sets up similar to a tent using a lightweight fabric and poles, and it can be attached to the back or the side of a vehicle. I like placing it on the side where I get in and out of my vehicle when camping in it. Learn more about the canopy in this review.

REI Trailgate Shelter: This canopy is spacious and open-feeling, although it does take up a fair amount of space in a campsite, I like the privacy that it provides, as well as protection from inclement weather. The Trailgate Shelter can be attached to the back or side of a vehicle, and sets up an arch pole and two stakes. So far, I’ve used it on trips with rain and wind and it held up well, although in heavy wind I would recommend adding the included guylines for support. For more info, see my review of the REI Trailgate Shelter.

Additional storage space

I stash extra items in the floorboards and front seat for items such as my backpack and camera gear.

front passenger seat storage

additional storage in back floorboard

Overall, I’m very happy with how my SUV camper turned out. I like having an option for camping in inclement and cold weather, and I love how easy it is to load and unload for quick adventures.

Gear Reviews: My goal is to share clear, unbiased information about outdoor gear. I am not sponsored by any gear companies and I don’t accept paid posts or links. I regularly receive products from brands for review, with no expectation of a positive review and no compensation for my opinions. As an independent gear reviewer, I only review items I’ve personally used on multiple trips and that I believe are high-quality and worth recommending.

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