Real life stories from campervan owners – stealth camping and going full time with van life

I think it’s safe to say that campervans are often a reflection of who we are, not just our tastes and personalities but our values. Campervan owners are notorious for caring about freedom, creativity and fun.

Every campervan that enters our workshop already has a bit of a story behind it. In a funny way, each conversion marks the beginning of an entirely new chapter. It’s nice to see old vehicles get a new lease of life, especially when the people who own them are so keen.

It often follows suit, that there are no two campervans alike. They are all so different, just like the people behind them. Here are some stories about our customers and their vans.

Ambulance conversion for a family trip

One of the most inspiring stories came from pre-Covid, when we completed a fully off-grid electrical installation in an old ambulance. The owners were a great couple with two young children who were absolutely ready to set off to travel the world together. We’ve kept in touch over the years, and the last update we received from them was deep in the Amazon rainforest! Amazing, and what a privilege for us to help them with the van. Thanks guys.

Off grid across Europe

One customer approached us wanting a stealth campervan* capable of travelling across the UK and Europe while remaining discreet for off-grid camping. The exterior maintained its original “work van” style, however the interior was for 100% off grid independence. 

We installed a full-width fixed bed with a thick, home-style mattress and created generous under-bed storage to house everything needed for extended travel. One compartment was so large it could comfortably fit a person, earning the van its nickname “The Smuggler”. That camper has since clocked up countless off-grid nights and remote stays throughout Europe and Cornwall.

*A stealth campervan is a recreational vehicle built to look like a regular cargo or work van from the outside, allowing for discreet overnight parking (stealth camping) without attracting attention.

The ultimate gap year

Another memorable build was a long wheelbase VW Crafter campervan conversion for a customer who decided to take a year out of work and travel Europe. After leaving the ferry terminal in Calais, he famously flipped a coin to choose a direction—and ended up in southern Spain during one of Europe’s hottest summers. Despite the heat, the adventure was unforgettable, and he’s since returned to Europe in search of sunshine once again.

Selling a house for full time van living

A lovely couple came to us for some changes to their van, which was also their home full time! This lovely couple had sold their home to fully embrace van life and in the process, needed a new pop top and some other bits for a Renault Trafic.

It was an amazing set up – during the week, they park at work and live off-grid. At the weekends they escape to the coast for some relaxation down at the beach. They absolutely love how refreshing the “van life” experience feels day in and day out. Lots of our van lifers wouldn’t change it for the world.

Travelling Asia in a campervan

A long time ago now, we even converted a campervan that was driven all the way to Malaysia. It passed through multiple countries, even requiring a special chaperone through China (due to regulations). 

After exploring Southeast Asia, the vehicle was shipped all the way back to dear old Blighty, ready for the next adventure. That same customer has since travelled extensively across Europe and into Norway with their van. We installed some heating for them so they could really make the most of sub zero terrains. Nice to know our Autoterm heaters pass the test!

Tell us your van story in the comments. We would love to hear how your van is used, and what you’ve installed to make it extra special.

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