Inside Levi Kelly’s Worlds Smallest Mobile Tiny House (2025)

Summary

This video showcases the transformation of a Japanese mini truck into the world's smallest fully functioning camper. The creator details the exterior and interior upgrades, including a military green paint job, four-wheel drive, solar-powered fan, and detachable camper panels. Inside, the 21-square-foot space features a convertible bed, functional sink, portable toilet, shower, hot plate, and a mini wood stove, all designed to maximize comfort and usability. Lightweight materials, reclaimed wood, and clever storage solutions make it practical for a couple of nights. The build cost around $8,000, offering a compact yet luxurious mobile living experience that can go anywhere on or off-road.

Takeaways

• 🚛 The vehicle is a 1998 Japanese mini truck (Honda Acty) imported and converted into a fully functional tiny camper.
• 🎨 The exterior is painted military green with black wheels, and the truck remains four-wheel drive capable of 60 mph.
• 🛠️ The camper is built using 2x2s for lightweight construction, foam insulation, exterior wall panels, and cedar trim around windows.
• ☀️ A solar panel mounted on a hinge provides power to the battery for lights, fan, and water systems.
• 🛋️ The interior features about 21 ft² of living space with reclaimed wood panels, a maple countertop, and walnut accents for a luxurious feel.
• 🚰 The camper includes a fully functional sink with a 5-gallon fresh water tank, a 7-gallon gray water tank, and a water pump.
• 🔥 A small indoor wood stove (Grizzly Cub) provides heat, ventilated by a fan.
• 🛏️ The bench converts into a bed suitable for individuals under 5’10”, with storage space underneath.
• 🚿 There is a portable shower system that connects to the faucet and a flushing portable toilet that fits neatly under a bubble window for comfort.
• 💰 The estimated total cost for the truck and camper conversion is around $8,000, making it an affordable 4x4 tiny camper with full functionality.

Q & A

What inspired the creation of the world's smallest functioning camper?

The creator's previous success with building the world's smallest tiny house and a love for Japanese mini trucks inspired the creation of this camper. The goal was to make a functional, compact camper with all essential features, something that was lacking in other mini truck campers.

What makes this camper different from others made with mini trucks?

Unlike many mini truck campers that are non-functional or uncomfortable for extended stays, this camper is designed to be fully functional, with features like a shower, toilet, bed, running water, sink, and solar power, all intended for a couple of nights of comfortable living.

How did the builder ensure the camper was lightweight despite its features?

To keep the camper lightweight, the builder used 2x2 lumber for the frame and foam insulation. The exterior paneling was a single sheet to reduce weight, and cedar was used for trim around the windows for a lighter, stylish finish.

What is the capacity of the mini truck, and how much weight does the camper add?

The mini truck has a load capacity of about 700 to 800 lbs. The camper itself is relatively heavy, potentially pushing the truck's load limits, but it was designed with lightweight materials to avoid exceeding capacity.

How does the solar panel system work on this camper?

The camper features a solar panel mounted on a hinge, allowing it to be adjusted for maximum sunlight exposure. The panel powers the camper's battery system, which runs essential features like the fan and water pump.

Can the camper's structure be easily removed from the truck?

Yes, the camper can be removed from the truck. The camper is mounted on a platform that allows it to be lifted off by adding boards underneath and raising it, making it a flexible feature for different needs.

How is the interior of the camper designed to maximize space and functionality?

The interior is designed with reclaimed wood panels, a walnut-stained finish, and a simple yet functional layout. The bench can convert into a bed, and there is storage under the bed for various items. The kitchen area includes a sink, storage cabinets, and a small hot plate for cooking.

How does the shower system work in the camper?

The camper has a fully functional outdoor shower system that connects to a 5-gallon fresh water tank. The shower hose can be raised through a window for use, allowing the occupant to shower outside or wash off gear.

What is the purpose of the bubble window in the camper?

The bubble window serves multiple purposes, including providing natural light and serving as a seating window for privacy while using the portable toilet. It also provides an observational view when the user is seated on the toilet.

How much did the entire camper build cost, and what was included in that cost?

The total cost for the mini camper build was around $8,000, which includes the purchase of the truck, materials for the camper, and features like the solar power system, shower, toilet, and all the custom woodwork.