Honest Van Life Adventures and Reviews
Back in January 2023, my old Ex Rac, T5.1 van was crashed into, writing it off completely. Thankfully, no one was seriously hurt apart from the van and, you can say, a bit of my mental sanity. It took over a year to release this for a few reasons, mainly because I’m poor at editing and ADHD-riddled, jumping from project to project, but mainly, well, this was the tipping point in life where things seemed to keep going downhill from here on in.
If you’ve ever dreamed of converting a van into a camper, let me tell you—it’s not all sunshine, neatly organized toolboxes, and smooth progress. No, it’s a battlefield filled with stubborn screws, mystery leaks, and a whole lot of “why did I think this was a good idea?” moments.
Welcome to my latest adventure, where I attempt to transform a Mercedes Sprinter 313 into a cozy camper. The video takes you through the first major step: ripping up the floor to see what horrors lie beneath. Spoiler alert—there are plenty.
Living the van life is all about freedom, adventure, and the occasional DIY fix. If you’re like me, your Chinese diesel heater is one of your most prized possessions—keeping you warm during those chilly nights in the mountains or frosty mornings by the lake. But let’s face it, even the most reliable gear can throw a curveball now and then. Chinese diesel heaters, while affordable and efficient, are notorious for a few common faults that can leave you scratching your head (or shivering in your van).
Fear not, fellow van lifer! I’ve put together this handy guide to help you troubleshoot the most common Chinese diesel heater errors. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a total newbie, these tips will have you back to cozy vibes in no time.
Read moreFinally the floor is up in my Mercedes Sprinter Conversion and that leads to the inevitable question, how best to fill the holes left over from ripping up the floor.
Read moreSitting back with a drink in your van after a long day sounds like the perfect end to a road trip. But before you crack open that bottle, let’s address the question: can you legally drink in your van in the UK?
Read moreFair to say it’s been a bit of a weekend in the UK with Storm Darragh making its presence known and it’s a time where I’m grateful to have a battery power bank in the form of the AllPowers R600, and yes one day I’ll have that video edited.
Read moreIn this video I’m attempting the “simple” task of taking out the bulkhead. Thwarted yet again by the battery guard 3000.
Getting down and dirty in this video with the Mercedes sprinter van build, although it’s more of a van destruction as I take on the nemesis, the battery guard 3000.
Every van build has to start somewhere. Without a clue, tools, guidance or a care in the world, I start my first ever solo van build with my Ex British Gas Cadent Mercedes Sprinter 313.
Alright, let’s get into it. This is the beginning of my journey converting a Mercedes Transporter into a fully functional home on wheels. For those with an ex-British Gas van, you’ll appreciate the rugged base these vehicles provide for a conversion. Here’s a look at what the first day entails.