Van Tour & biggest Regrets after 5 Years on the Road 4×4 Sprinter
🚐 Upgrades and Regrets:
Nikki Delventhal shares her experience of living full-time in a custom-designed 144 4×4 Sprinter van for over a year, highlighting the upgrades that made life easier and the decisions she regrets. She emphasizes the importance of choosing the right vehicle and accessories based on one’s lifestyle and needs.
🛠️ Exterior Modifications:
Key exterior upgrades include BF Goodrich tires, an Agile Offroad suspension kit, an extended 47-gallon fuel tank, and custom-built storage solutions. Nikki mentions that while some investments, like the locking differentials, were expensive and rarely used, others, such as the onboard air system and Max tracks, were essential for off-road adventures.
🛋️ Interior Design and Functionality:
The van’s interior features custom-built storage, a drop-down shower, and a large garage space to accommodate gear and two bicycles. Nikki also installed a 1,200 amp-hour battery bank, which supports her off-grid lifestyle, powering everything from an induction stove to an air conditioning unit. She shares her thoughts on the practicality of different interior features, such as the awning, which she rarely uses due to its manual setup.
🔧 Lessons Learned:
Nikki reflects on the decisions she would change, such as opting for leather seats instead of fabric for easier maintenance, reconsidering the need for back windows, and potentially choosing a different toilet system. She also discusses the importance of having a partition for insulation and privacy, and the benefits of radiant floor heating for comfort during cold weather.
💡 Advice for Van Lifers:
Nikki advises others to carefully consider their specific needs when choosing van features, noting that not all upgrades are necessary or worth the investment. She highlights the importance of designing a van that suits your lifestyle, whether you live in it full-time or use it for occasional trips.
Insights Based on Numbers
- 1,200 Amp-Hour Battery: Essential for running an off-grid lifestyle, powering everything from the air conditioner to the induction stove.
- $10,000 – $12,000: The cost of the locking differentials, which Nikki admits she hasn’t used in a year.
- 47-Gallon Fuel Tank: An extended fuel capacity that has significantly improved Nikki’s ability to travel longer distances without refueling.
