Building freedom on four wheels: Chatting with a DIY RV enthusiast
Learn how Megan Clarke designed an off-grid vehicle to fuel her passion for travel and independence
Megan Clarke is a traveller and DIY enthusiast with a passion for the open road. Having grown up in one of Canada’s most populous regions, Megan longed to spend time in the mountains. Her transition into RVing was a natural fit, as it combined her fondness for travel with the comforts of home. Now, Megan is known for her unique approach to RVing, which includes converting her own vehicles into off-grid campers to explore the great outdoors on her own terms.
In 2022, Megan took on the challenge of transforming a 2006 GMC Yukon into a solo-friendly camper, complete with running water, a solar-powered battery system, a 12V fridge, and a cleverly designed bed for maximum comfort. Megan's innovative journey has captured the imagination of many, and she was happy to share her adventures with us.
- Photo courtesy Megan Clarke
Can you tell me a bit about yourself, and how you got into RVing?
My name is Megan, I am a solo adventurer and avid DIY-er. Having grown up in one of the most densely populated areas of Canada, I always dreamed of moving out to the mountains in Western Canada. My interest in RVing felt like a natural progression—combining my love for road trips and nature with my homebody spirit.
Can you tell us a bit about your current unit?
I converted a 2006 GMC Yukon into an off-grid camper back in 2022. It was designed with long road trips and a solo traveller's comfort in mind. There is running water, a house battery charged by solar and the vehicle alternator, a 12V fridge, plenty of easily accessible storage, and a two-foot wide bed that extends to 80 inches long.
- Photo courtesy Megan Clarke
How did you get the inspiration to start converting an SUV into a camper?
My inspiration to convert an SUV into a camper started with a fellow hiker telling me that The Yukon is the ultimate road trip destination. I already had an interest in RVs and van life, having rented a minivan camper years ago in Australia and also watching the journeys of a few YouTubers. When I looked at the cost of renting a camper again to explore the north, I realized I could take that money further if I invested it into building a rig of my own.
What has been the biggest challenge so far?
The biggest challenge so far has been gas prices, haha! On a more serious note - finding a sense of community while on the road. As a solo traveller on a budget, I leaned on dispersed camping and boondocking. Spread out campsites are nature-lover's best friend, but there is not as much opportunity for human interaction. Having a stealthy unit was amazing for feeling safe and the flexibility to sleep anywhere, but it is easy to feel out of place.
- Photo courtesy Megan Clarke
Do you live on the road full-time, or just use the SUV camper for excursions?
The longest I lived in the SUV was for four months. Since then, I have gained a fiance! Ryan is a country music artist, so we have spent a lot of time on the road tent-camping and truck-camping. Now we are building out a Ford Transit van so we can be on the road full-time together and a little more comfortably.
What gear would you refuse to go camping without?
It's hard to imagine refusing to go camping! Aside from the essentials to keep me alive... My AeroPress coffee maker has been a wonderful addition to my camping gear
- Photo courtesy Megan Clarke
What has been your proudest achievement in your travels (so far)?
My proudest achievement in my travels has to be that I quit drinking alcohol. It was a journey I had been curious about and thought my time on the road would be the easiest to commit to the change. It felt smart as a solo traveller, especially being dependent on my ability to drive in an emergency. It has had an incredible impact on my confidence level in social settings—not relying on alcohol to feel at ease.
What advice do you have for those who dream of living the RV lifestyle?
Often "the dream" requires sacrifice. If you want a luxury rig, it might be money. If it's not money, it will likely be time. If it's neither of those, it might be a simpler rig or travelling slower. Ultimately, it is up to you to determine what is most important to you about the lifestyle and consider what you truly need to achieve that.
- Photo courtesy Megan Clarke
To follow Megan's adventures or learn how to build your own camper, you can connect with her through her website MeganClaarke.com, watch her YouTube videos at YouTube/@MeganClaarke, or follow her on Instagram at Instagram/@MeganClaarke. She’s even written a detailed guide on how she built her camper, available here.
