Abel – Robust Mercedes Sprinter camper van (2p) | self-built & off-grid

Hi! Five years ago I bought this Mercedes Sprinter and converted it into a camper van myself, together with my dad. I'm a mountaineer and rock climber, and Abel is the van that carries me to the Alps and out camping with my girlfriend. My favourite moments are the mornings: you throw open the rear doors, the mountains right there in front of you, make a coffee, and just chill on the bed with light and fresh air pouring in and a full panoramic view out the back. It's the best feeling there is. I take care of Abel like my best friend, and I'd love for you to make your own memories in him.

Abel is a proper self-built home on wheels for two. The rear is a convertible zone that goes from a comfortable double bed to a full seating and dining area with a table — so you sleep at night and lounge, eat and relax by day. Beautiful curtains separate the driving cab from the living space for privacy, and the whole interior is styled with natural wood and touches of red fabric on the pillows and curtains. There's a large side door and big windows I fitted myself for maximum view and airflow, plus a roof window with a built-in mosquito net for light and fresh air.

Kitchen & living

Two-burner gas stove (Campingaz tank)
Electric water tap with jerrycans for fresh and grey water — really easy to use
Fully equipped: cutlery, cooking tools, knives, pots and pans, plates
Neatly integrated bin and all the basic amenities
Plenty of cabinet space for your groceries
Soft ceiling lights and soft reading lamps by the bed
A little bookshelf by the bed, with my collection of climbing guidebooks

Comfort & storage

Heater for cold days
Privacy curtains throughout
Two large compartments above the cab for clothes and gear
Three large boxes in the back for luggage
Camping table and chairs included
Firewood on board if you fancy a campfire at the site
Snow chains, levelling blocks, and repair/safety kit in the back

Power

House battery that charges from the alternator while you drive
Four USB charging points (two in the kitchen, two at the head of the bed)
Main switch so you can cut the power and avoid draining the battery

Abel is strong and tough — he gets me everywhere, on every road and to every spot. Because he sits a little higher on his axles he flies up mountain roads and through the countryside with ease, and even though he's a big van the interior is light so the engine never feels short of power. You can stand up and walk around inside, and the big windows make it easy to take everything in.

Good to know: Abel is a true off-grid van built for freedom and simplicity — there's no built-in toilet or shower. We chose living space and the open-air life over a cramped wet room, which is perfect for campsites and getting out into nature. No smoking, please. Other than that, treat him well and enjoy every mile.