2014 Mercedes Sprinter 2WD

Escape pod for two: 2014 Mercedes 3500, high roof and short length. Dubbed second breakfast (see The Hobbit), this van boasts a propane range top and water heater to afford travelers a hot meal and shower at the end of the day. The van itself is the diesel dually (7000 pound towing capacity), but is the same footprint as a minivan… park at the mall with ease. Electricity drawn from the high output alternator and stored in a 95ah AGM battery powers a cooler to keep yogurt and fresh fruit cool, and to spin the overhead fan at night. We have had the van at both coasts, in the mountains of Colorado and the deserts of Nevada. With a set of magnetic ‘living in a bubble’ screens, crack the front windows and run the fan to sleep safe, secure, and bug free.

Tires, brakes, and exhaust recently replaced (<10k miles) and this van has zero rust. It began life servicing an apartment complex (not a delivery van) and runs very well. It is insulated with cotton and spray foam. The passenger seat has a swivel installed and the water tank has filters installed both before and after the marine water pump. We found that 30 gallons was plenty for two showers at night and a day of hand washing/food prep.

The shower stall has a vent fan and sink for handwashing after using the Trelino portable toilet. The shower and both sinks empty into an under-the-van gray water tank holding 20 gallons. It works well for an overnight stay at a location with no dumping facility. (For example, your favorite Cracker Barrel parking lot.)

Ample storage can be found under the bed, with some shelving holding space for personal items above the bed, and lightweight wire baskets at various convenient locations for phones, paperbacks, extra chili powder, etc.