u/Robert_Mauro

Image 1 — Converting into a Camper
Image 2 — Converting into a Camper
Image 3 — Converting into a Camper
Image 4 — Converting into a Camper
Image 5 — Converting into a Camper
Image 6 — Converting into a Camper
Image 7 — Converting into a Camper
Image 8 — Converting into a Camper
▲ 77 r/OffRoadRoos+1 crossposts

Converting into a Camper

Wanted to share my progress with everyone who might be interested.

I am planning a cross-continent trip to Alaska from Florida in my Subaru Ascent 20223 Onyx and this is what I did to prep my car for the adventure.

Step 1: I removed the captain chairs, had to by a proper socket wrench, but overall not too difficult. Found some videos on Youtube for reference.

Step 2: Filled the gaps left by captains chairs with foamies; I had some laying around, but I am sure they can be found in department store.

Step 3: Found a solid thick matt to hold shape as a base for the second row, I got lucky as I stumbled onto one by chance at Costco (roughly 48" x 32", but not a perfect fit).

Step 4: Added an all weather mat (cut to shape) from Amazon, doesn't hold shape well, but in combination to the matt works well and add traction (personal preference).

Step 5: For my mattress I got a tri-fold cot from Amazon for $130. I am very particular about good sleep, so to me that was money well worth it.

Step 6: Used two trail crates from Lowes (18" in height) as a support for bed at night and storage for necessities.

Everything is foldable and collapsible. During my day to day I dont bother taking it out, I just stack it and put it in the trunk.

Hope this helps anyone who is looking to turn their Subi into a camper.

u/Robert_Mauro — 5 days ago
▲ 3 r/OffRoadRoos+2 crossposts

Subaru Outback Front Trail Cam Install | Gen 5 Head Unit Integration | Also Applies to Forester, Crosstrek!

Subaru Outback Front Trail Cam Install | Gen 5 Head Unit Integration | Also Applies to Forester, Crosstrek!

In this video, we perform a complete installation of a front-mounted trail camera integrated into an aftermarket head unit on a 2015 (Gen 5) Subaru Outback. This setup is ideal for off-road spotting and navigating tight trails. While we are working on an Outback, these trim removal and wire routing principles apply broadly to Forester and Crosstrek models of similar years.

What we cover:

✅ Gen 5 Dash Disassembly: Step-by-step removal of the dash trim pieces and the factory/aftermarket head unit to access the video inputs.

✅ Camera Mounting: Securing the trail cam to the front grille/bumper for the best field of view.

-----▶️ Cam can be found here: https://amzn.to/48Xjdf6

✅ Wire Routing: How to safely pass wiring through the firewall and center console without interfering with factory harnesses.

✅ Electrical Best Practices: Proper wire splicing and the use of heat-shrink tubing to ensure a weather-sealed, "Secure-By-Design" connection.

PARTS NEEDED:

✅ Camera:

-----▶️ Cam can be found here: https://amzn.to/48Xjdf6

-----▶️ Alternative Listing: https://amzn.to/4dGu67K

-----▶️ Adjustable Cam: https://amzn.to/3PDzTSj

-----▶️ License Plate Mount Version: https://amzn.to/4tBFYwG

Tools & Supplies Used:

✅ Zip ties for cable management

-----▶️ https://amzn.to/4d88nFx

✅ Specialty Zip Clips to put bumper or other exterior pieces back on

-----▶️ https://amzn.to/4uLaIfA

✅ Non-marring plastic trim removal tools (includes some clips)

-----▶️ https://amzn.to/4eKpa2F

✅ Adhesive-lined heat-shrink tubing (3:1 Shrink)

-----▶️ https://amzn.to/4v5GtjR

✅ 10mm socket (for head unit bolts)

✅ Soldering iron or quality crimpers and torch

✅ Wire fish tape or a coat hanger (for firewall routing)

Technical Note for Subaru Owners:

When routing through the firewall, we used an existing rubber grommet. And we ensured our wiring is secured away from the steering column and pedal assembly. Since we are using a 12V trigger for the camera, we ensured it is fused appropriately for the camera's draw.

Disclaimer:

❎ Do NOT attempt. And if you do, remember that modifying your vehicle's electrical system requires care. Ensure the battery is disconnected when working on head unit wiring. Always verify your specific head unit's pinout before making permanent connections.

youtube.com
u/Robert_Mauro — 8 days ago

Hey everyone! I'm u/Robert_Mauro, a founding moderator of r/OffRoadRoos.

This is our Reddit home for all things related to Off Road Roos Subaru Community! We're excited to have you join us!

What to Post
Post anything that you think the community would find interesting, helpful, or inspiring. Feel free to share your thoughts, photos, or questions about off roading or your build!

Community Vibe
We're all about being friendly, constructive, and inclusive. Let's build a space where everyone feels comfortable sharing and connecting.

How to Get Started

  1. Introduce yourself in the comments below.
  2. Post something today! Even a simple question can spark a great conversation.
  3. If you know someone who would love this community, invite them to join.
  4. Interested in helping out? We're always looking for new moderators, so feel free to reach out to me to apply.

Thanks for being part of the very first wave. Together, let's make r/OffRoadRoos amazing.

reddit.com
u/Robert_Mauro — 19 days ago
▲ 8 r/OffRoadRoos+2 crossposts

We headed to the Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area (AOAA) in Coal Township, PA, to take on "The Climb" at Pipeline Trail. Watch as an orange Subaru Crosstrek and a Subaru Ascent navigate the rocky, loose terrain of this iconic hill.

It’s a perfect demonstration of how different wheelbases and line choices affect a climb. While the Crosstrek works to find its footing, the Ascent powers through to the top. This is what the Off Road Roos community is all about—responsible adventuring and testing the limits of our builds in a safe, controlled environment.

Gear & Vehicles:

  • Subaru Ascent: Driven by u/Robert_Mauro
  • Subaru Crosstrek: Driven by IG: jaketrek

Filmed on: Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Osmo 3

Chapters:

00:00 Intro: Off Road Roos at AOAA
00:06 The Climb at Pipeline Trail Begins
00:15 Subaru Crosstrek Technical Ascent
01:05 Perfect Execution & Top Out
01:20 Subaru Ascent: Finding the Line
02:07 Ascent Powers to the Top
02:33 Outro: Adventuring Responsibly

Join the Community:

If you're a Subaru owner looking to get off the pavement and onto the trails, join the Off Road Roos Community for our next scouting trip or forest cleanup!

Don't forget to:

Explore more videos on the Off Road Roos channel!
Join the adventure on our Facebook Community!
Check out the Gear Store for your own adventures!
And most importantly, Adventure Responsibly and Leave No Trace!

GEAR & COMMUNITY LINKS:

  
#Subaru #OffRoadRoos #AOAA #SubaruAscent #SubaruCrosstrek #Overlanding #OffRoadSubaru #PennsylvaniaOffRoad #offroad #adventure #explore #getoutside #4x4 #awd #SubaruAdventure #SubaruLove #SubaruAmbassador #OffRoadRoosTribe #jtbrooks #tiredeflators #rallitek #primitiveracing #thule #stokevoltaics

u/Robert_Mauro — 8 days ago