Transforming a USPS Cargo Bike into a Winter Shelter in Alaska

An Unusual Adventure in Alaska

Among the 49 beautiful states of the USA, including New Jersey, Alaska is perhaps the least appealing place to go camping outdoors during the winter. However, on YouTube, Matt Spears demonstrates that it is not that difficult to convert a USPS electric cargo bike into a small shelter. While it is unclear how often these cargo bikes are used in Alaska, Matt managed to obtain one after crashing into a mirror. This bike features a delta configuration — a single front wheel — which makes it unstable, and the increased center of gravity due to the load does not help. Nonetheless, neither USPS nor Matt was deterred.

His conversion is quite simple: he added a few lights, a lock on the back door, and a wood-burning stove for warmth. Instead of using heavy insulation that would reduce the already small space, Matt opted to insulate with an assortment of warm sleeping bags. Even the rubber chains he equipped on the wheels helped him move (albeit slightly) during a winter storm that blocked his truck. Although it may not be the most practical winter vehicle on unplowed mountain roads, starting with a cargo bike with electric assistance, for which Uncle Sam has already paid, represented a significant saving in both cost and time compared to building a camper from scratch.