Ordering Your Adventure Van: What to Consider

Ordering a custom rig for your adventure lifestyle is an exciting process, but it requires careful consideration. Let’s dive into what you should think about before placing your order.

Vehicle Options

When choosing between Sprinter and Transit, consider the available options that are practical for a van build. Sprinter offers 144 and 170 wheelbases, both in high roof. There is also a 170 extended version, although rare.Although offered, we have found that the Sprinter Mid roof does not have enough clearance for a campervan build.

Transit offers a 148 wheelbase available in regular length in a high and mid roof configuration, or extended length in a high roof config. Decide which configuration best suits your needs. Both of these rigs interior spaces are very close for general building considerations.

Roof Height

Opting for a high roof provides more headroom and space for customization. Transit’s high roof offers slightly more headroom than Sprinters, providing additional comfort and versatility. While the Transit’s mid roof option is often just fine for people about 5’9” or less.

Layout Considerations

Think about how you plan to use the space inside your rig. Consider factors like the number of passengers, a second row seat, sleeping and storage needs, and desired amenities. Visualize your ideal layout to ensure it meets your requirements. Be aware that a 2nd row bench seat if not needed, can have a big and often detrimental impact on your layout. Consider this carefully if it us not going to be used most of the time.

Drivetrain Options

Evaluate the available drivetrain options, such as rear-wheel drive, all-wheel drive, or four-wheel drive. Choose based on your intended usage, considering factors like terrain, weather conditions, and driving preferences. Oftentimes customers are quite satisfied with the improved mileage of a 2wd option and utilizing winter tires, bringing chains, or swapping out for studded tires in the winter months.

Engine Performance

Assess the engine options and their performance characteristics. Consider factors like power, torque, fuel efficiency, and responsiveness. Determine which engine aligns best with your driving style and performance expectations. We’ve found the performance of the Ford 3.5L EcoBoost has done quite well for our van building needs with plenty of power without the need for DEF in needed for diesel engines.

Budget Considerations

Establish a budget for your custom rig, considering both the initial purchase price and potential long-term costs, as well as upfitting costs. Account for factors like maintenance, repairs, fuel economy, and insurance premiums. Ensure your budget aligns with your financial goals and priorities. And most of all, leave enough budget to build out your vehicle. A common technique is to finance the vehicle while leaving cash reserves for the build.

Customization Potential

Research the customization options available for your chosen platform. Consider factors like interior layout, exterior features, upgrades, and accessories. Explore aftermarket options and modifications to personalize your rig to your preferences.

Resale Value

Consider the potential resale value of your custom rig. Choose options and features that appeal to a broad audience to maximize resale potential down the line. Opt for upgrades and modifications that enhance value without overcapitalizing.

Test Drive

Before placing your order, schedule test drives of both Sprinter and Transit models to experience their handling, comfort, and performance firsthand. Pay attention to details like driving dynamics, ergonomics, and overall feel to make an informed decision. This is such a subjective call, but we’ve found that the Sprinter platform differences in 2wd vs 4wd drive quite different out of the box, while the Transit 2wd and AWD are almost identical.

Consultation

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the ordering process, seek guidance from experienced professionals or fellow enthusiasts. Consult with van builders, dealerships, or online communities to gather insights and advice.

In conclusion, ordering a custom rig requires careful consideration of various factors, including vehicle options, roof height, layout, drivetrain, budget, customization potential, resale value, test drives, and consultations. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can ensure that your adventure rig meets your needs and preferences, providing you with countless memorable journeys on the open road.

Roost Vans Webinars: Your New Resource for DIY Van Builders and Enthusiasts

Roost Vans is excited to announce the launch of our monthly webinars, designed to support both DIY van builders and those considering van conversion. Whether you’re looking to convert a van yourself, hire a professional, or take a hybrid approach, our webinars will provide valuable insights and guidance.

Kicking Off the Webinars

In September 2024, we hosted our first webinar, “Your Guide to Choosing the Right Van,” and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants learned the key differences between popular van models—Transit, Sprinter, and Promaster—and explored important considerations such as new vs. used vans, wheelbase options, as well as specific pitfalls to avoid. The interactive Q&A session allowed participants to ask specific questions, making the session both informative and engaging.

What’s Next?

Our second webinar is set for October 24, 2024, and will focus on “The Build Process: What to Expect and How to Plan for Success.” This session will cover critical aspects of van building, from layout planning and material selection to understanding which parts of the project can be DIY and which may require professional help. Like our first webinar, we will kick the discussion off with a 20–30-minute presentation to get the ball rolling, but the “meat” of these webinars is the Q&A, where we engage directly with your questions.  For this reason, we offer limited, advance registration.  Attendance is free, but we encourage advanced registration to ensure your spot!

These webinars are designed to break down complex topics into clear, actionable steps, so you can make informed decisions for your van build. Whether you’re just starting or are deep into the process, this upcoming session is a must-attend for anyone serious about van conversions.

More Than Just Webinars: Building a Community

Our webinars are only the beginning. At Roost Vans, we’re building a community. Our long-term plans include a community area on our website, featuring forums where DIY builders and van enthusiasts can connect, share ideas, experiences, and ask questions. Our goal is to build a reliable resource hub for DIY van builders and those exploring the van life, with a focus on peer-to-peer support as well as offering expert guidance.

In addition to the forums, we’re planning to roll out more video content and detailed tutorials, so you’ll have access to a wealth of information to help you at every stage of your build.

Why Roost Vans?

At Roost Vans, we’ve made it our mission to simplify the van conversion process, and to put your dreams within reach. Our modular products are designed for flexibility, making them ideal for DIYers and professionals alike. By attending our webinars and engaging with our upcoming community resources, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge but also have the support of a community that shares your passion for van life.

Join Us on October 24th

We invite you to join us for our October 24th webinar, or at any point in the future.  This is the perfect opportunity to take your van conversion knowledge to the next level. Register now to reserve your spot and stay tuned as we continue to build a vibrant, supportive community for van enthusiasts everywhere.

Register Here

Exciting New DIY Product Releases from Roost Vans

At our last trade show in 2023, we shot an exclusive video showcasing our upcoming products. Since then, we’ve launched many of these products, with more on the way.

This is a big year for Roost Vans, especially for our DIY van builder following. We’re proud to offer comprehensive interior van build solutions characterized by efficient, elegant designs, unparalleled DIY customer service, and modular systems that provide unmatched flexibility.

Watch our video for some detailed descriptions of our products and ecosystem.

Explore the Shop Online (DIY) section of roostvans.com

Better yet, come see our products in person at the Adventure Van Expo in Hood River June 22-23!

2024 – A Breakout Year For DIY Van Builders

Roost Vans is dedicated to providing top-notch solutions for DIY enthusiasts looking to convert their vans into fully functional living spaces. As we step into 2024, we’re excited to announce a slew of new product releases that promise to revolutionize the van conversion experience. Our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction remains at the forefront of our mission, ensuring that every product we offer meets the highest standards.

 

A Breakout Year for Roost Vans

2024 is set to be a landmark year for Roost Vans, marked by the introduction of several innovative products designed to enhance the van conversion process. This year, we’re not just expanding our product line but also reaffirming our dedication to supporting our customers every step of the way.

A few months ago, we introduced our highly anticipated paneling kits, which have received rave reviews from our community. These kits provide a seamless solution for interior van paneling, combining aesthetic appeal with practical functionality. 

New Product Announcements

Today, we are thrilled to unveil the latest additions to our product lineup:

Electrical Power Panel

The Roost Vans Electrical Power Panel is a game-changer for DIY van converters. Designed with flexibility and ease of use in mind, this power panel offers a robust solution for managing your van’s electrical system. Key features include:

• Compatibility with Goal Zero Yeti units (1000x, 1500x, 3000x, and 6000x)
• Modular design for customizable installations
• High-quality bamboo surfaces and user-friendly interfaces
• Comprehensive tech support options

Our power panel simplifies the often daunting task of wiring, providing a clean and organized setup that integrates seamlessly into your van. With pre-fused dimmer and toggle switches, DC plug/USB ports, and an AC shore power outlet, this panel ensures you have all the power management tools you need at your fingertips.

Associated Inbound Charge Kit to complement our power panel, we offer an addon inbound charge and installation kit, which includes:
• Engine Recharge Kit
• Solar Recharge Kit
• Shore Power Recharge Kit

This kit is designed to provide reliable and efficient charging options, ensuring your van’s power system is always ready for your next adventure.

Custom Mattress

Custom Mattress for the FU-Kit Bed Comfort is key when converting a van into a living space, and our new custom mattress for the FU-Kit Bed system ensures a good night’s sleep. Crafted from high-quality Certi-Pur materials, this mattress offers the perfect blend of support and comfort.

 

Upcoming Releases

In the coming weeks, we have more exciting products lined up for release, including:

Insulation Kits:
Tailored to fit Sprinter and Transit high roof platforms, our insulation kits will help maintain a comfortable interior temperature year-round.

Custom Mattress for the Strap Up Bed:
Another addition to our bedding solutions, this custom mattress is designed specifically for the Strap Up Bed system, providing superior comfort and durability.

Dinette Bed System:
A versatile solution that transforms your dining area into a comfortable sleeping space at night.

Expanded Kitchen Cabinetry Ecosystem:
We’re expanding our range of kitchen cabinetry to offer more options for creating a functional and stylish van kitchen.

Commitment to Quality and Service

At Roost Vans, we pride ourselves on delivering products that not only meet but exceed the expectations of our customers. Each product is meticulously designed and tested to ensure it performs flawlessly in real-world conditions. Moreover, our comprehensive support services are always available to assist you with any questions or challenges you may encounter during your van conversion journey.

Conclusion

As we continue to innovate and expand our product offerings, we invite you to join us in making 2024 a transformative year for van conversions. Whether you’re just starting your DIY project or looking to upgrade your current setup, Roost Vans has the products and support you need to bring your vision to life.

For more information on our latest products and upcoming releases, stay tuned to our website and follow us on social media. Let’s make 2024 the year of extraordinary van conversions!