Luxurious VW Crafter converted for off-grid adventures all year round

This is a campervan which was designed and commissioned using the Camper Way in Dorset whose brief was to create a van offering exceptional comfort, on and off-grid. In selecting what to incorporate, I used a checklist of must-have’s and added everything except a bike rack as my treasured bike is too cherished to risk leaving outside the van. Instead I remove the wheels and stash it in the shower stall. Having owned and rented her out (with very enthusiastic feedback), a change in lifestyle means it is time for her to move onto a new owner. During my period of ownership, the team at the Camper Way has continued to maintain her for me with the same exceptional level of workmanship throughout.

Layout:
Equipped with a modern drivers cabin, cooled by air-conditioning when the summer heat closes in, the van boasts power steering with reversing camera and parking sensors to enable anyone to handle her long wheelbase. The Bluetooth audio system can connect your phone to allow you to use the hands-free feature when taking calls and channel your favourite playlist. There are three belted seats in the front (including the driver) with headrests. The passenger seats are on a swivel base, offering more seating options when parked up for camping. Towards the rear is a dinette seating area with a Lagun swivelling table offering seating for 5-6 adults. This easily converts to a large double bed that could comfortably take two adults plus a child. Super thick memory foam was chosen for the mattress to ensure an excellent nights sleep. A large Maxx Air Fan and second skylight with blinds ensures the van stays well ventilated. The open-plan deisgn of the van with linen curtains maximises the flow of air keeping sunshine out and the cabin cool. A spare set of linen curtains can be provided with the van offering you the choice to switch between off-white or dark grey.

Electrics:
There is a selection of two double sockets (one can be used off-grid and one with the inverter) with USB points and a further two USB charging points. The main lights are dimmable for relaxed evening settings. The electrics comes via two lithium batteries powered by a large solar panel and a Victron Orion split charge (powered by driving) further ensures there is plenty of power to the van while off-grid. If you are on a campsite, there is an electric hook up point and a cable will be supplied. The ample sized fridge/freezer can run off 12V.

Water and heating:
An underslung LPG cylinder feeds into a Truma boiler which is operated from a single panel, powering the heating and water at the press of a button. Equipped with an underslung 70L freshwaster tank and 30L grey water tank, the van has an interior shower (where you can place a porta potty) and exterior shower unit, ensuring plenty of capability to keep you clean, warm and dry off-grid.

Campervan conversion spec:
– Max Air Fan
– Dometic 500 x 600 sky light
– 320W solar panel
– Victron Smart Charger AC/DC
– Victron Solar Charger
– Victron Phoenix Sine Wave Inverter
– Lithium batteries (2)
– Underslung water tank (70L)
– Underslung gas cylinder (20L)
– Interior shower
– Exterior shower
– Truma 4e boiler
– Thetford 12V fridge freezer
– Triplex oven and hob
– Lagun mounted oak table

Outside spec:
– Fiamma F80S awning
– Rogue Alloy Wheels with BFG Goodrich Tyres (spare included)

Note: when looking at the photos, the external shower and mains lighting switch have since been updated so the shower fixture is now black and light switch is white.