The Vibe
Designed with a blend of Scandinavian minimalism and rugged off-grid capability, this 2016 VW Crafter is more than just a van, it’s a meticulously crafted mountain sanctuary. Whether you’re a climber heading to the Alps, a rider needing secure space for multiple bikes, or a slow-travel enthusiast seeking a peaceful off-grid retreat, this van was built to take you to the end of the road and keep you there in total comfort.
With a serene “Village Maze” sage green and wood-clad interior, the living space feels bright and airy, while the “garage” underneath is a beast of utility, capable of swallowing three bikes, a bouldering pad, and all the gear you can throw at it.
The “Gold Standard” Off-Grid System
If you know your electrics, you’ll know no expense was spared. This van was built for true independence and remote work, featuring a high-end Victron Energy ecosystem.
Battery: Massive 280Ah Fogstar Drift Lithium battery
Solar Power: 2 x 175W panels paired with a Victron SmartSolar MPPT (monitor everything from your phone!).
Charging: Victron Orion 30A Smart B2B charger (charges while you drive) and a Victron 500W Multiplus Inverter/Charger for shore-power.
Stay Connected: I’ve installed high-speed charging points throughout:
Main Living Area: 2x 240v sockets for laptops, including built-in USB 3.0 and USB-C ports.
Bed Area: Dual 12v USB 3.0 and USB-C charger for overnight phone/tablet charging.
The Garage: Combined 12v cigarette lighter, USB-C, and USB 3.0 socket—perfect for charging e-bike batteries or the Joolca Hottap.
Gas: 10kg Safefill Refillable LPG bottle—save a fortune and refill at petrol stations across the UK and Europe.
Living & Kitchen
The kitchen is a chef’s dream in a compact space, featuring the Thetford Triplex Oven and a Dometic CRX50 fridge with a freezer compartment.
Comfort: A large kitchen sink (actual house-size!), custom upholstered bench seating, and a 5kW diesel heater to stay toasty.
Airflow: Maxxfan Deluxe and a rear skylight over the bed for perfect ventilation.
Sleep: A fixed Ikea double bed ensures a proper night’s sleep. Includes custom-made quilted thermal window covers for total blackout.
Details: Tile stickers, a custom cork board for your travel photos, and beautiful wood-trim edging. Includes a bucket toilet neatly tucked away.
The Adventure Specs (The Garage)
The rear of the van is a massive “garage” space.
Bike Capacity: Designed to fit three bikes securely.
Water: Massive 85L onboard water tank feeding a Joolca Hottap shower system—nothing beats a hot outdoor shower after a big day in the Mountains
Storage: I’ve squeezed storage into every nook and cranny, from overhead lockers to deep kitchen drawers.
Why I’m selling:
This van hasn’t just been a project; it’s been my full-time home for the past year. It was built with longevity and mountain adventures in mind, and living in it has proven just how capable it is, whether it’s waking up at the foot of a crag or staying cozy through a winter storm.
I’m only selling because I am starting a PhD, and as much as I’d love to keep it for weekend escapes, my focus (and budget!) needs to shift to my studies. It’s been the perfect companion for a year of life on the road, and it’s now ready to be the home-base for someone else’s next big chapter.
