Mercedes Sprinter LWB off grid camper

Our family spent many years building luxury tiny homes including shepherd’s huts and restoring traditional gypsy caravans. We always wanted to use our skills and experience in a camper as we found the interiors of RVs we owned rather uninspiring. So we set out to find a very low mileage Sprinter from the ‘bulletproof’ generation of these vehicles, a task that took quite a lot longer than we expected. Eventually we found one from a leading dealer with only 57000 miles on the clock. The conversion took well over a year to complete as and when time permitted.

The objective for this build was to produce a cosy, relaxing space with simple, uncluttered systems offering a full off grid experience. We love wood, and that shows in the hand waxed redwood cladding and custom made fittings. When people asked us to build tiny homes for them in years gone by, what they usually wanted was a sanctuary. That’s the best way to describe the ambience this campervan has. Find a beautiful place to park and forget about the strains and stresses of the world while your coffee brews. The attention to detail is pleasing and every component is brand new.

The build started with a multi layered floor comprising 25mm celotex, a 9mm subfloor, underlay and an oak laminate top floor giving excellent insulation performance. The walls and ceiling use a combination of celotex and Celtic sheep’s wool. Every panel received Dodo deadmat soundproofing to eliminate squeaks and rattles. We utilised a split charge system to aid leisure battery charging when driving, and two 100 watt roof mounted solar panels do the job when the vehicle is parked. Two 120ah leisure batteries are fitted which provide ample off grid power. Charging points are fitted throughout the van including USBC 3.0. Full 240v hook up is fitted with multiple sockets. 12v lighting is fitted throughout including six roof mounted touch lights and multiple adjustable reading and spot lamps.

The van has two heating systems. The main off grid system is a diesel powered 5kw heater with remote control, but when 240v hook up is available, there is also a 2kw electric heater. Both of these heating sources offer very dry heat unlike gas systems which tend to cause moisture issues. A 50 litre Smad fridge is fitted powered by either 240v or 12v. Cooking facilities are provided by a Tasman marine stove with two burners and a large grill. The 907 gas bottle is secured in a locking safety cabinet with 150mm drop vent. All piping is brand new and secured by safety approved clips. A Fiamma Bi Pot lives under the main seat and the usual safety equipment such as a fire extinguisher and smoke/CO alarms are in place.

All the windows open and the rear sliders have insect screens built in. A rear door ladder gives access to the huge roof rack which has a centre walkway and a rear roller. Both are galvanised. A Wolfwise outdoor/WC folding cubicle in conjunction with a pressurised Dr Prepare shower provides simple ablutions, and a Wild Earth stowable awning fits above the side door. Sounds are provided by a JBL Charge 5 bluetooth system which is portable, waterproof to IG27 standard and offers the facility to charge phones etc. from it’s integral battery.

This camper is DVLA compliant in all respects other than graphics which should reflect the tastes of the new owner. We haven’t changed the Panel Van status of the vehicle because it is very cheap to tax and insure at present, last VED payment £147 for 12 months. However, the vehicle was built according to DVLA internal and external guidance, so it’s up to the new owner. Please feel free to call for a chat about the camper, we really want her to find the right home and start her adventures.