In the video by Angie On Tour, she takes us on a journey through her first 48 hours of Van Life in a luxurious 2023 Mercedes Sprinter van. This newly released van is fully equipped with everything needed for a comfortable time off the grid. Angie rented the vehicle from VanCraft Campervans and expressed her gratitude for the once-in-a-lifetime experience. Throughout the video, she showcases the van’s features like the kitchen area with a refrigerator, stove, and sink, as well as storage compartments and a bed that can fit two people. Angie recommends trying out van life for a weekend to see if it’s an enjoyable and freeing experience.
Angie’s entertaining and slightly cringy footage captures her initial experiences with van life and the ease of moving into the van due to minimal belongings. She contrasts the high clearance and quietness of the van with her everyday Toyota Corolla. Angie takes us on a virtual tour of their travel destinations, including the mesmerizing Salt Flats and breathtaking Crater of the Moon National Monument. The van, complete with solar panels and a heated outdoor shower, provides all the comforts needed for a memorable road trip. In conclusion, Angie recommends anyone curious about van life to give it a try and embrace the adventure of living on the road.
Moving into the Van
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Moving into the van was a breeze. With minimal belongings, the transition was easy and stress-free. Unlike moving into a house or apartment, where there are countless items to pack and unpack, the process of moving into a van is much simpler. You only need to bring the essentials, which allows for a more minimalist lifestyle. It’s liberating to let go of unnecessary possessions and only keep what you truly need. Plus, limited space in the van, forces you to prioritize and be mindful of what you bring along on your journey.
First Impressions of the Brand New 2023 Sprinter Van
Stepping into the brand-new 2023 Sprinter van was like entering a luxurious hotel room on wheels. The van was equipped with top-of-the-line features that made it feel more like a high-end apartment than a vehicle. From the meticulously designed interior to the sleek exterior, it was clear that this van was built with comfort and style in mind.
Luxurious Features
One of the first things that caught my attention was the fully equipped kitchen area. It had a spacious refrigerator, a stove with two burners, and a sink with a built-in soap dispenser. Cooking meals on the road would be a breeze with these amenities. The countertops provided ample space to prepare food, and the overhead storage compartments and drawers were well-stocked with all the essential utensils, plates, bowls, and pots and pans.
Comparison to Other Vehicles
As someone who was used to traveling in a 2016 Toyota Corolla, the difference between the van and a regular car was astounding. The high clearance and quietness of the van made for a much smoother ride compared to my previous vehicle. The van also had a panoramic view, thanks to its large windows, which allowed me to take in the breathtaking scenery as I traveled. It felt like an upgrade in every aspect, from comfort to functionality.
Exploring New Destinations
One of the best parts of living in a van is the freedom to explore new destinations. During my first 48 hours of van life, I had the opportunity to visit two incredible locations: the Salt Flats and Crater of the Moon National Monument.
Visiting Salt Flats
Returning to the Salt Flats was a no-brainer for me. The vast expanse of white salt stretching out as far as the eye could see was a sight that always left me in awe. This time, however, I had the luxury of parking my van right in the middle of this stunning landscape. The window covers provided privacy while still allowing me to enjoy the breathtaking view. It was a surreal experience and made me appreciate the beauty of nature even more.
Discovering Crater of the Moon National Monument
After the Salt Flats, I made my way to the Crater of the Moon National Monument. This unique location is known for its volcanic landscape, with lava flows, cinder cones, and caves to explore. Camping in such an otherworldly environment was an adventure in itself. Waking up to the sight of lava in my campsite was something I never thought I’d experience. It truly felt like I was living in a different world. Exploring the caves and hiking among the lava formations was an unforgettable experience that I would recommend to anyone seeking a unique outdoor adventure.
The Van’s Accommodations
The van was not just a means of transportation; it was a home on wheels. It was equipped with everything I needed to live comfortably during my time on the road.
Fully Equipped Kitchen Area
The kitchen area was a chef’s dream. With a spacious refrigerator, a stove, and a sink, I had everything I needed to prepare meals. The countertop provided ample space for cutting and prepping ingredients, and the overhead storage compartments allowed me to keep my kitchen essentials organized and easily accessible. Whether I wanted to cook a simple meal or get creative with my culinary skills, the van’s kitchen had me covered.
Storage Compartments
Living in a van means making the most of the available space, and the van’s storage compartments were a game-changer. From the overhead compartments to the drawers, there was plenty of room to store my clothes, camping gear, and other necessities. The van was designed with organization in mind, making it easy to find what I needed without feeling cluttered.
Comfortable Bed for Two
After a long day of exploring, having a comfortable bed to sleep on was essential. The van’s bed was large enough to accommodate two people, and it came with soft and cozy bedding. It was the perfect place to unwind and get a good night’s sleep. The bed was also conveniently located near a window, allowing for stargazing or enjoying the view as I woke up in the morning.
Sustainable Living on the Road
Living in a van offers a unique opportunity to embrace a more sustainable lifestyle. The van I rented was designed with sustainability in mind, incorporating eco-friendly features that allowed me to live off the grid.
Solar Panels for Off-Grid Power
One of the standout features of the van was its solar panels. These panels provided off-grid power, allowing me to charge my devices and run the van’s appliances without relying on traditional electricity sources. It was empowering to know that I could live comfortably while minimizing my impact on the environment.
Heated Outdoor Shower
Another impressive feature of the van was the heated outdoor shower. This allowed me to stay clean and refreshed even when camping in remote locations. The hot water was supplied by a propane tank, ensuring that I had a warm and pleasant shower experience no matter where I was.
Renting from VanCraft Campervans
I had the privilege of renting the van from VanCraft Campervans, and I couldn’t be more grateful for the experience they provided.
Gratitude for the Experience
I want to express my sincere gratitude to VanCraft for giving me the opportunity to experience van life in such a beautiful and well-equipped vehicle. The attention to detail and the luxurious features of the van truly made it a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The team at VanCraft was helpful, and friendly, and provided excellent customer service throughout the rental process.
Link to VanCraft’s Website
If you’re interested in renting a campervan for your next adventure, I highly recommend checking out VanCraft’s website. They offer a variety of van options to suit different needs and budgets. From luxurious Sprinter vans like the one I rented to more compact models, VanCraft has something for everyone. Visit their website for more details and specifications about their campervans.
Documenting the Experience
Throughout my first 48 hours of van life, I documented the experience with footage that can only be described as “cringy.” But that’s part of the joy of van life โ embracing authenticity and being unapologetically yourself. While the footage might not be the most polished or professional, it captures the real moments, the ups and downs, and the sheer joy of living on the road. So, if you’re up for a laugh and some genuine moments, be sure to check out the video.
Cringy Footage and Authenticity
In an age where social media often showcases only the highlight reel of people’s lives, I wanted to capture the raw and authentic moments of van life. The cringy footage in my video is a testament to that authenticity. It’s a reminder that life isn’t always perfect or glamorous, but that doesn’t make it any less beautiful. Van life is about embracing the good, the bad, and the awkward, and finding joy in every moment.
Weekend Getaway Recommendation
If you’re interested in trying out van life but aren’t ready to commit to a long-term adventure, I highly recommend giving it a try for a weekend getaway. Rent a van from a reputable company like VanCraft and embark on a short trip to see if van life is something you enjoy. It’s the perfect opportunity to experience the freedom and flexibility of life on the road without making a long-term commitment. Who knows, it might just be the start of a lifelong love affair with van life.
Trying Out Van Life for a Short Trip
A weekend getaway in a campervan allows you to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and immerse yourself in nature. You can choose to explore nearby national parks, visit charming small towns, or simply find a secluded spot to relax and unwind. It’s a chance to break free from routines and experience the thrill of the open road. Just pack your essentials, hit the road, and let the adventure begin.
Conclusion
In conclusion, my first 48 hours of van life in a 2023 Sprinter van were nothing short of incredible. Moving into the van was a breeze thanks to the minimal belongings I had. The brand new van exceeded all my expectations, with its luxurious features and comfortable accommodations. Exploring new destinations, such as the Salt Flats and Crater of the Moon National Monument, allowed me to immerse myself in nature and discover the beauty of the great outdoors.
Living sustainably on the road was made possible by the van’s solar panels and heated outdoor shower. Renting from VanCraft Campervans was a fantastic experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to live in their beautiful van. Documenting my van life experience with cringy footage highlighted the authenticity of the journey.
If you’re considering van life, I encourage you to give it a try for a weekend getaway. It’s a chance to experience the freedom and adventure of life on the road without making a long-term commitment.
In the end, van life is about embracing simplicity, connecting with nature, and finding joy in the little things. It’s a lifestyle that allows you to explore, grow, and create unforgettable memories. So, what are you waiting for? Hit the road and start your own van life adventure today.