Overview
We built our Promaster van conversion with accessibility, affordability, and comfort in mind, as well as traveling with a family and/or dog. We love to hike and travel. When we retired, we wanted to be able to see more of the country, but on a fixed income, and with our dog. We also wanted to build it with extra space for families, so our own kids had the van available to take vacations with their families.
We custom made the van for off grid living. Since the van has everything you need in it, and does not require hook ups or a generator, you can virtually park it any where, and we have. It is so nice to stay at our beautiful national and state parks, that might have more limited accommodations, especially off season, which we have found out.
The van has all the conveniences of home, due to Lithium batteries that recharge with the second alternator, while you drive. The heating system can be set with the smart thermostat, and runs on gas. In the evening, you can read with the dimmed lights over the bed or watch your favorite show on your laptop. If you want a cool breeze, open the side door, and pull out the awning to shield yourself from sun or rain.
Our van is equipped with a good sized refrigerator/freezer, microwave, and induction oven, making meals efficient, quick, and easy. That really keeps expenses down. There is plenty of space for all amenities that you would expect from a kitchen. .
We wanted to make the van family and pet friendly, so our van seats 4. We also travel with our dog, so we have made some adjustments for her comfort as well, including the additional outdoor shower. As for us, 2 old people, the indoor toilet was a must.
What really makes this van affordable and easy to drive is the fact that it is 18plus miles per gallon, and has a 360 degree camera, as well as driver assistant and collision avoidance. On our last 2 week trip, we drove and parked very comfortably, and our biggest expense was at the souvenir shops.