So today I picked up my 2007 Mercedes Long Wheel Base Sprinter and it's safe to say, I'm a giddy little kid! I'm so excited at the prospects of driving into the sunset, pulling up and walking from the driver's seat straight into bed. No more finding a tent site, pitching a tent, setting up the beds and hearing scary ruffling sounds as night animals scuttle around the tent! From now on, I'll have steel between a wild animal and me sleeping! Seriously exciting!
It was absolutely hilarious driving it home from the dealership. I'm a girl who is not the best of drivers at the best of times and I'm driving a HUGE van through a very busy Melbourne. I don't think I have ever concentrated so hard while behind the wheel. Perhaps I should concentrate like that all the time!
I managed to get it home, find a park for it and celebrate my small victory. I've been planning something like this for over a year now. I have looked at caravans, motor homes and 4wds and when I stumbled across a couple on Instagram who converted their Sprinter into a camper van, it was like I had won the jackpot. It's such a perfect idea. I can drive it around, still park it, sleep in it and hopefully travel around Australia in comfort.
I have grand plans, but not a lot of budget. So the conversion is not going to be a quick process, however I now have a van, so, really, I'm most of the way there already!!! Did I mention...I'm seriously excited?
My plans include a Queen size Murphy bed and single bed bunk, shower/toilet ensuite, kitchen area and a spot for a coffee machine and grinder. I certainly can't go without a real coffee and grinder while on the road, I have my priorities!
I'm planning on a vinyl floor, white cabinetry, maple look bench top and stainless steel fridge, Fisher Paykel dish drawer, nice big sink and a single burner stove and lots of storage areas.
I was really tempted to install a Bunnings or Ikea kitchen, but from what I've read, the cabinetry may not stand up well with the vibrations of the road, so tonight I started on the kitchen cabinetry with undressed pine. I have one side of the cabinet frame and I'm happy with the progress. My neighbours might say otherwise as I'm sure the whole neighbourhood heard the drop saw! Eek.
I have been travelling all over Australia in a 4wd Patrol and a tent for 10 years. For the next 10 years, I'll travel around Australia in style and comfort, with a toilet, shower and inner spring mattress!!!!
I have my bundle of Sprinter excitement and I'm open to suggestions. What should I do with the van? What flooring should I install? Insulation or no insulation? Which creature comforts should I have or go without? Have you completed a van conversion and have your regrets? Did I mention...I'm seriously excited?
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