Appa, our beloved, self-converted camper van, built on a 2019 Ford Transit 250 High Roof base, offers a unique blend of comfort, functionality, and off-grid capability. Designed with adventure in mind, Appa combines luxurious details with rugged practicality; it features a well-equipped kitchenette with tons of butcher block counter space, a large sleeping area, couch-like benches for indoor lounging, ample storage space, and a rooftop deck for outdoor relaxation.
With this all-weather, off-grid capable van, adventurers can embrace remote destinations, immerse themselves in nature, and create lasting memories. The interior features all electric heating and appliances, no propane to worry about refilling or leaking. It’s the perfect vehicle for a life on the road for one or two adults, combining comfort, practicality, and access to endless adventure.
The battery system, the 80/20 aluminum framing, and the Van Life Tech “Roman Holiday” system were installed by a licensed installer from Exploration Van Works. The rest was converted by the owner.
Vehicle Features:
- Rear back up camera
- 2 WD
- Bluetooth audio
- Cruise Control
- New A/C condenser installed in 2021
Kitchenette:
- 15” wide, 9” deep sink, with pull-out faucet connected to a 24-gallon fresh water tank
- Hot water provided by Van Life Tech hydronic heating system.
- 5 gallon grey tank in vehicle, suitable for all weather. Includes portable grey tank for easier disposal at campsites.
- Spacious and efficient 12V refrigerator (Cruise 85 Clean Touch)
- Butcher block counter space for meal preparation, with foldout extension
- Stow-away single burner electric induction cooktop included
- Compact and versatile 1000 Watt Toaster Oven included
- Nature’s Head composting toilet slides out from under the sink, vents to outside through the floor. No smell!
- Passenger seat swivels to provide extra seat
- Lagun mounted table stows away behind driver seat, with multiple mounting points for work station or dinner table.
- Custom cushion seating with washable, durable fabric
- Easy to maintain cork flooring
- Plenty of hooks for hanging towels, jackets, anything you need to hang!
Climate Control:
- State-of-the-art Van Life Tech “Roman Holiday” heating system provides radiant heated floors and blown hot air when needed, controlled by thermostat which can be connected to onboard wifi to provide remote access.
- 9,553 BTU 12V Nomadic Air Conditioner to keep cool even when it’s hot. (I’ve used it to keep temperatures comfortable, even in Death Valley)
- Quiet, safe-to-touch fan by the bed provides extra air movement.
- Cedar panel ceilings keep moisture and smells down.
- Bug screens installed on side and rear doors when you want to just open it up and let the air move through.
- Insulated with Havelock wool
Solar Panels and Electrical System:
- 180-watt walkable solar panel system
- 420 amp-hour lithium-ion battery bank
- Multi stage charging system uses shore power, solar panels, and 60A alternator
- Provides enough power to run appliances, charge electronic devices, and power a small air conditioner for days
- Dimmable LED strip lights surround the edge of the ceiling, and kitchenette area, giving you full control of beautiful indirect lighting
- 3000W inverter to power two 110 volt outlets are located in the vehicle, one under the bed and one in the kitchen area.
- More USB plugs in kitchen open shelving
Sleeping Area:
- Short Queen size bed with high-density foam mattress (2 sets of sheets included)
- Extends/retracts on sliders to provide more living space during daytime.
- Black out curtains between driver area and living area, and insulated window shades keep it dark and comfy.
- USB-A and USB-C outlets are conveniently located in the window sills.
- Gooseneck reading lights on both sides of the bed.
Storage Space:
- 4 large overhead cabinets along driver side
- Open storage area with eye-hooks for bungees under the bed, plenty of space for space for outdoor gear, including hiking boots, climbing equipment, bikes, and fishing rods
- Cross bars attached to roof rack, ready for storage box.
- Bulkhead storage over the driver space for smaller items
- Two wall baskets for extra storage or decorations, on passenger side
- Under bench storage, right-sized padded containers are included
Outdoor Shower:
- Convenient outdoor shower located at the rear of the van
- Privacy shower tent and teak floor mat included for comfort
Roof Deck:
- Aluminess perforated roof rack with walkable solar panel, accessible by side ladder
- Bring up a blanket for an ideal place for stargazing at night or enjoying the sun during the day
Optionally includes:
- Moonshade awning
- Shower Tent (never used)
- Teak Shower Mat
- 1800 Watt induction cook top (fits perfectly in drawer)
- iPad mount magnet
- Leveling blocks
- Two sets of sheets
- Toaster Oven
- Portable auxiliary grey tank
