Beginner’s Guide to Vanlife by The Vansmith
How to Change the Battery on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Find your Mercedes Sprinter battery under the driver’s floor, passenger seat, hood, or trunk. Uses 12V AGM/EFB (H8/H6). Learn locations and replacement basics.
RV Spring Maintenance: How to Get Your Rig Ready for the Road
Get your RV ready for spring with this RV spring maintenance checklist. Learn how to get your RV ready for spring by de-winterizing water systems, checking tires, and inspecting roof leaks.
National vs Boutique Van Builders: What Really Sets Them Apart
Compare big national van brands with boutique van builders on process, materials, and service so you can choose the right partner for your next build.
How Long Are Class B Camper Vans in the Shop for Repairs?
How long will my van be in the shop? Most repairs take a few days to several weeks, with an average of 12 days. Minor repairs usually take 3–5 days.
Transit Interior Water Damage: What RV Insurance Covers and What It Doesn’t
Understand RV insurance water damage coverage, what’s excluded, and how to protect your camper or van before you file a claim.
How to Start Full-Time Camper Living?
Get honest pros, cons, and practical tips for full-time camper living, from budgeting and downsizing to layouts that actually work on the road.
Ford Transit Explorer RV Insurance Coverage: What It Really Protects
Understand RV insurance coverage for camper vans, motorhomes, and trailers so you know what’s protected before you build, buy, or hit the road.
How Much Does It Cost to Live in an RV Full-Time?
Many travelers ask how much does it cost to live in an RV, and the answer depends on travel style, rig type, and how often you move. Full-time RV life...
Cassette Toilet Camper Guide: How It Works and If It’s Right for You
If you travel often, you may wonder how do cassette toilets work and why they are popular in vans and caravans. Cassette toilets are simple, clean, and easy to maintain....
Cold Weather Battery Charging: What Van Owners Need to Know
Cold weather battery charging tips for van lifers: protect lithium batteries, avoid damage, and keep your off-grid power reliable all winter.
How RV Toilets Work: Simple Guide to Camper and Motorhome Bathrooms
Many new travelers ask how do camper toilets work and how does a RV toilet work when living or traveling on the road. RV toilets use gravity, sealed tanks, or...
How to Dewinterize Camper Van Systems for Spring Road Trips
Use this step-by-step guide to dewinterize camper van systems, from water and electrical to safety checks, and get your rig ready for spring adventures.
Ford Transit Reliability: What Vanlifers Should Know Before You Buy
If you've spent time around van people, you've likely heard the question: Are Ford Transit vans dependable? The short answer - yes. Built to last, most Transits easily pass 250,000...
Camper Slide Out Adjustment: Step-by-Step Guide for Smooth Operation
A misaligned slide-out can make life on the road frustrating - doors jam, seals leak, and your space just doesn’t feel right. Learning how to adjust camper slide outs isn’t as...
Class B RVs with Slide Outs: Pros, Cons, and What to Know
Discover how class b rvs with slide outs work, their pros and cons, and smarter layout alternatives to maximize space in a compact camper van.
RV vs Camper: What’s the Real Difference for Your Road Trips?
Compare rv vs camper types, costs, and comfort so you can choose the right rig for your travel style and budget. Get expert tips from van builders.
RV Storage Cost Guide 2025: How Much Does It Cost to Store an RV?
If you’re an RV owner, sooner or later you’ll ask: how much does it cost to store an RV? Whether you’re a full-time vanlifer taking a break from the road,...
Exploring the Benefits of Our DIY Camper Van Conversion Kits
By Eugene, CEO and Owner Our camper van conversion kits bring professional-grade components to DIY builders nationwide. These comprehensive packages include everything needed for successful van conversions. Quality materials, detailed...
What to Expect from the Vansmith Van Conversion Process
By Eugene, CEO and Owner Understanding our process helps set proper expectations for your van conversion journey. From initial deposit to final delivery, we maintain clear communication and predictable timelines....
Espar Heater Maintenance Guide: Cleaning & Inspection Tips
When you're deep in the Colorado backcountry and the temp drops to single digits (Weather.gov), your Espar diesel heater turns into more than just a comfort feature. In those situations,...
Best Sprinter Van Suspension Upgrades for Confident Off-Road Travel
Discover the best sprinter van suspension upgrades for heavy builds and off-road travel, plus expert tips from The Vansmith to dial in your ride.
Winnebago Revel Review: A Colorado Builder's Honest Take
Honest winnebago revel review from a Colorado van builder—real-world pros, cons, and better alternatives for serious off-road travel.
Essential Winter Van Living Tips for a Warm, Comfortable RV Life
Winter van living tips focused on insulation, heating, moisture control, and winter gear—protect plumbing, manage condensation, and stay warm all season.
Important Tips for Winter Van Living
Get winter van preparation right with heater care, insulation, and moisture tips so your camper stays warm, safe, and ready for quiet snowy adventures.
Buying a Used Van vs. New for Van Life: Pros and Cons
Compare new vs. used camper vans: new offers tech and reliability, while used vans are more affordable, customizable, and avoid rapid depreciation.
