Mercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a compact adventure-ready van.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
19'Shower
Exterior * * Optional Add-OnsClass B RVs, Conversion Vans & Campervans for Sale in Fort Myers, FL
Mercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a compact adventure-ready van.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
19'Shower
Exterior * * Optional Add-OnsMercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Includes a shower setup for longer trips without compromising comfort or space.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
19'Shower
Bench * * Optional Add-OnsMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
Ideal for those who want extra living space and more storage for extended adventures.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
22'Shower
FullMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
Luxury model with full amenities, extended power systems, and interior bathroom.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
22'Shower
FullMercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for families who want space, comfort, and functionality in a compact build.
Seat & Sleeps
4Length
19'Shower
Exterior * * Optional Add-OnsMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
A larger build for families who love extended adventures and more storage.
Seat & Sleeps
4Length
22'Shower
Bench * * Optional Add-OnsMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
The luxury upgrade with interior shower and full power systems for long trips.
Seat & Sleeps
4Length
22'Shower
Full
Fort Myers is a battery-first market, and it is worth being direct about why. The factor that determines whether a camper van gets used here in July is whether it can run air conditioning overnight at a campsite without hookups. Air conditioning is the largest electrical draw in a van by a wide margin, so in southwest Florida, the specification conversation starts with battery capacity and works outward from there. Everything else follows.
The geography is ideal for exploring. Sanibel and Captiva are about half an hour west, Lovers Key is roughly twenty minutes south, and Big Cypress National Preserve lies about an hour east, offering access to some of Florida's more remote camping areas. Everglades National Park is approximately an hour and a half southeast. Winter, from December through April, brings some of the most comfortable camping weather in the region, attracting visitors escaping colder climates.
A camper van in this region also needs to account for heat, humidity, salt air and the wet season, when afternoon thunderstorms are common from May through October. Hurricane preparedness is another important consideration for Southwest Florida owners.
The Vansmith crafts Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit camper vans in Boulder, Colorado, and delivers across Florida. Conversion packages start at $46,950, complete vans with the chassis included start at $115,950, and pre-built Bivy models range from $119,700 to $192,570. For the statewide picture, explore
camper vans in Florida.
The defining feature of a Florida camper van. Air conditioning is available on every model and standard on the Bivy Deluxe. It draws far more power than anything else in the van, so overnight use without shore power requires a large battery bank. Air conditioning also lowers humidity, which matters almost as much as temperature when sleeping comfortably in Fort Myers.
A powered roof fan with variable speed and reversible direction does more daily work in this climate than the air conditioner. Running the fan alongside the AC helps distribute cool air, while on mild winter nights the fan alone may be enough. We design airflow paths behind cabinetry rather than sealed cavities to help prevent mildew in a climate where the air rarely stays dry.
Insulation is often treated as a cold-weather feature, but it matters just as much in Florida. A well-insulated van gains heat more slowly when parked in the Fort Myers sun, helping the air conditioner run less and preserving battery capacity. Full insulation covers all six sides, including the roof exposed to direct sunlight. Pre-built Bivy models use Havelock wool.
The electrical specification starts with your overnight cooling needs. Lithium battery banks are sized around your real usage, with up to 15 kWh available in the Bivy Deluxe. A fridge, lights, water pump and device charging create a predictable load, but air conditioning through a humid Florida night requires considerably more capacity. See our Electrical System work.
Florida's abundant sunshine makes roof solar a valuable part of an off-grid electrical system. During the wet season, afternoon cloud cover and daily thunderstorms can reduce production, while campsites in Big Cypress and the Everglades may sit beneath cypress and hardwood canopy. We install roof solar and DC-DC alternator charging on every model. Solar contributes meaningfully during Florida's sunny winter months, while alternator charging helps cover the difference. Explore our solar installation work and our solar sizing guide.
Fresh and gray water tanks are sized to your layout and paired with a pressurized pump. With freezing rarely a concern in Fort Myers, the priorities are adequate capacity for higher hot-weather water use and convenient rinsing after time around saltwater and sandy beaches. An exterior shower is available and comes standard on the Bivy Plus and Bivy Deluxe.
| Specification | What We Build | Why It Matters in Fort Myers |
|---|---|---|
| Base Vehicle | Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or Ford Transit, supplied by you or included in a complete vehicle. | The Transit can cost less to purchase and service locally, while Florida roads generally do not require the Sprinter's additional capability. |
| Wheelbase and Dimensions | Approximately 19.5 ft on the short wheelbase or 22.5 ft extended, with a high-roof height of 9 to 10 ft. | The shorter van is easier to park on the islands, while the extended layout offers more room for storage and a larger electrical system. |
| Sleeping Capacity | Two on a fixed bed in the DUO Series, or four with convertible seating in the FAMILY Series. | Sleeping capacity determines the layout, and a fixed bed leaves a practical gear garage for wet beach equipment. |
| Air Conditioning | Available on every model and standard on the Bivy Deluxe. | Air conditioning is central to comfortable travel during the hot, humid months from May through October. |
| Insulation | Full insulation on all six sides; Havelock wool in pre-built Bivy models. | Helps slow heat gain in direct sunlight, reducing air conditioning runtime and battery consumption. |
| Ventilation | A powered roof fan with variable speed and reversible direction, with airflow paths behind cabinetry. | Consistent airflow helps manage moisture and reduce the risk of mildew in the subtropical climate. |
| Heating System | A fuel-fired air heater running off the vehicle's own fuel tank. | Heating is rarely needed locally but can be useful for winter trips farther north and for drying the van after damp conditions. |
| House Battery | A lithium battery bank sized around your actual overnight power needs, with capacity up to 15 kWh. | Overnight air conditioning is a major factor in determining the battery capacity required for camping without shore power. |
| Solar Charging | A roof solar array sized to your layout and daily energy use. | Solar can perform well during sunny weather, but wet-season cloud cover and tree canopy at some campsites reduce production. |
| Alternator Charging | A DC-DC charger on every model. | Helps replenish the house battery during cloudy weather and while driving between Gulf Coast destinations. |
| Fresh Water | Fresh water tanks sized to your layout, with a pressurized pump and an available exterior shower. | Hot-weather water use can be higher than expected, and an exterior shower makes it easier to rinse away sand and salt. |
| Wastewater | A gray water tank matched to fresh-water capacity, with accessible drains. | Some established campgrounds provide dump stations, while more remote camping areas may have limited facilities. |
| Refrigeration | A 12V compressor refrigerator that runs on battery power alone. | Maintains food temperatures in a hot van without requiring propane or a level-parking setup. |
| Electrical Monitoring | A battery monitor that shows actual state of charge rather than relying on voltage alone. | Accurate monitoring helps track remaining battery capacity when air conditioning runs overnight. |
| Payload | The chassis payload rating is evaluated against your realistic loaded weight during the design call. | A large battery bank, water, passengers and camping equipment all contribute to the total vehicle weight. |
| Tires and Brakes | Tires and brakes selected around your planned routes, vehicle load, heat and wet-road performance. | Hot pavement and frequent wet-season rain make heat tolerance, traction and load ratings important considerations. |
| Ground Clearance | Ground clearance depends on chassis, trim and drivetrain, with suspension and tire upgrades available. | Standard roads require little additional clearance, while some unpaved access roads around Big Cypress may benefit from it. |
| Corrosion Protection | Sealed body penetrations, properly rated connectors and accessible service points. | Persistent coastal salt air can accelerate corrosion, making suitable materials and well-sealed installations important. |
| Warranty | A lifetime cabinetry warranty for the original owner, with no mileage or year limit. | Appliance warranties are provided by their respective manufacturers, and The Vansmith is NOAH certified. |
Exact figures for payload, ground clearance, tire sizing and vehicle dimensions depend on the chassis, trim and drivetrain you choose. The Vansmith confirms each specification against your selected vehicle during the design call.
Nine tailored layouts across the two-person DUO Series and the four-person FAMILY Series, on Sprinter 144 and 170 wheelbases and Transit 148 and 148 extended, plus three pre-built Bivy trims. Browse all tailored models.
A Class B RV is a camper built inside a van body rather than on a truck chassis. In southwest Florida, a van is practical for island parking, campgrounds with vehicle-length limits, and travel through the Everglades and Big Cypress. It can also be driven away from an area when evacuation is necessary. Browse our Class B RVs for sale.
A traditional conversion van typically has upgraded seating and trim for comfortable travel, without the equipment needed for sleeping, cooking, or independent camping. A camper van, also known as a Class B RV, is equipped for self-contained travel with a bed, galley, water system, ventilation, and a house electrical system that operates independently of the engine. In Florida, that distinction matters: a passenger van can become uncomfortable in August heat, while a properly specified camper van can provide cooling and overnight comfort when its electrical system is sized for the load.
DUO starts at $46,950, DUO S at $53,950, DUO XLS at $63,950, and DUO XL is available on request. FAMILY starts at $51,950, FAMILY XL at $61,950, and FAMILY XLS at $68,950. Three pre-built Bivy trims start at $119,700.
Our full current stock, including inspected used vans, is on the camper vans for sale page.
Available on both wheelbases with all-wheel drive and 4x4 options. See Sprinter van conversions and Sprinter campers for sale.
The Ford Transit offers a lower purchase price, lower service costs, and broad dealer coverage across southwest Florida, with all-wheel drive available on current model years. For Florida's mostly flat, paved road network, the Transit can be excellent value. Depending on your travel plans, the purchase-price difference could go toward a larger battery bank for overnight cooling. See Ford Transit van conversions and our Sprinter vs. Transit comparison.
The Sprinter 144 is approximately 19.5 feet long and is easier to park on the islands and at many regional campgrounds. The 170, at approximately 22.5 feet, provides more interior space for insulation, storage, and a larger electrical system. A larger battery and effective insulation can help support overnight cooling, provided the system is appropriately specified. Check the vehicle-length limits for individual Everglades campgrounds and loops. See small camper vans.
The Transit 148 is comparable in overall layout planning to the Sprinter 144, while the Transit 148 extended offers additional length similar to the longer Sprinter layout. Final dimensions depend on the exact chassis and configuration.
Most Fort Myers buyers may not need 4x4. Southwest Florida is largely flat, and many routes into Big Cypress and the Everglades use graded gravel or limestone roads. All-wheel drive can be useful on wet grass or loose surfaces, but route conditions vary. If technical off-road travel is not part of your plans, compare the value of a drivetrain upgrade with the benefit of additional battery capacity. See 4x4 RVs for sale.
Four two-person layouts with a fixed bed and a generous gear garage relative to vehicle length. For southwest Florida trips, the storage area can help keep paddleboards, fishing equipment, and wet beach gear separate from the living space. See camper vans for couples.
Three four-person layouts with convertible seating and sleeping arrangements. See family van conversions.
Bivy Classic costs $119,700 with a 5 kWh system. Bivy Plus costs $145,845 with 10 kWh, a diesel cabin heater, and an exterior shower. Bivy Deluxe costs $192,570 with 15 kWh, air conditioning, and a Rixen hydronic heater. Bivy XL starts at $153,700. These models are based on the Sprinter 144 AWD with a pop-top and Havelock wool insulation, and are typically ready in 8 to 10 weeks. See the Bivy comparison.
For Florida travel, the Bivy Deluxe is worth considering if overnight air conditioning without hookups is a priority. Its 15 kWh battery system provides more capacity for cooling than the smaller configurations, although actual runtime depends on outside temperature, humidity, insulation, and energy use. The Bivy Plus includes an exterior shower, which is useful for rinsing salt and sand off after beach trips.
The DUO Series sleeps two on a fixed bed, the FAMILY Series accommodates four with convertible seating, and Bivy models provide sleeping space for two below plus two in the pop-top. Use the van designer to compare configurations.
Four measures work together to improve comfort and reduce energy use. Park in shade whenever possible, since direct Florida sun adds substantial heat through the roof. Use insulated window covers during the day, not just at night, and run the roof fan to keep air moving. Use air conditioning when conditions require it, with battery capacity planned around the expected runtime. Combining shade, window covers, ventilation, and cooling can make better use of the available battery bank than relying on air conditioning alone.
In a humid climate, moisture can collect in still air behind cabinetry even when it is not immediately visible. Keep air moving and avoid sealing the van up without ventilation when parked. If the van will sit unused for weeks, leave appropriate ventilation open and consider a small dehumidifier when shore power is available. Wipe down and dry the interior after wet trips. Regular moisture management is particularly important in southwest Florida.
Salt air can accelerate corrosion on exposed electrical connections. The Vansmith uses properly rated connectors and terminals, positions connections away from floor-level moisture where possible, and seals body penetrations. Owners can help protect their systems by rinsing the exterior after beach trips, keeping the shore-power inlet clean and closed when not in use, and arranging regular inspections rather than waiting for a fault.
A camper van is not a safe place to ride out a hurricane. During an evacuation order, follow local emergency instructions and move to a suitable permanent shelter or leave the affected area. Recreational vehicles offer limited protection against hurricane-force winds and flooding.
Hurricane season runs from June through November, with activity typically peaking from August into October. If a storm approaches, leave early and follow official evacuation guidance, since roads and fuel supplies can become constrained. Keep the fuel tank adequately filled during the season, maintain the house battery, and have a clear evacuation plan. If the van is stored, choose a location away from flood-prone areas and falling-tree hazards. During daily wet-season thunderstorms, monitor lightning and severe-weather alerts and seek a substantial enclosed building when conditions warrant.
Salt air can affect a vehicle throughout the year. Rinse the van, including its underbody, after beach trips and after driving along coastal routes. Inspect fasteners, roof-rack mounts, hinges, and areas around roof penetrations. Covered storage can provide additional protection. Regular cleaning and inspection help identify corrosion before it becomes a larger maintenance issue.
Shade or covered storage can help limit UV exposure, which gradually affects seals, tires, trim, and roof components. Maintain tire pressure, inspect tire condition, and check seals and sealant around roof fittings at least annually. If the van will sit unused for a month, maintain appropriate ventilation and follow the battery manufacturer's storage recommendations.
About half an hour west across the causeway, Sanibel and Captiva offer shelling beaches, the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge, bike paths, and coastal scenery. The causeway carries a toll, and visitors should follow local parking and vehicle regulations rather than planning to sleep in designated day-use lots. Both islands experienced significant damage from Hurricane Ian in 2022, so check current access, facilities, and opening information before travelling.
Roughly 20 minutes south between Fort Myers Beach and Bonita Springs, Lovers Key State Park encompasses barrier-island landscapes, paddling opportunities, and wildlife viewing. Manatees and dolphins may be seen in the back bay. Check current park facilities and day-use rules before visiting; do not assume overnight camping is permitted.
About 20 minutes south, Estero Bay Preserve State Park protects undeveloped flatwoods and mangrove habitat with hiking opportunities and limited shade. Summer visits can be particularly hot, so bring water and plan outdoor activity around the weather.
Within Fort Myers, Six Mile Cypress Slough Preserve features a boardwalk through a cypress wetland, with opportunities to spot wading birds, alligators, and otters. Its shaded sections and short walking routes make it a convenient local outing.
Allow roughly an hour and a half to reach the Everglades City entrance, or around two and a half hours to Flamingo on the southern side, depending on route and conditions. Flamingo and Long Pine Key offer drive-in camping, with site-length limits that should be checked against your vehicle. The dry season, generally December through April, is often more comfortable for outdoor activities. Wet-season mosquitoes can be intense, so prepare accordingly.
About an hour east, Big Cypress offers some of the region's more remote camping opportunities. Designated backcountry camping areas and campgrounds such as Burns Lake and Bear Island have limited facilities and no typical full-service hookups. Access roads may be graded gravel or limestone, and some routes can become difficult or impassable during the wet season. Bring adequate water, follow food-storage guidance, and be aware of wildlife, including alligators and black bears.
Travel north through Sarasota and Tampa toward the Big Bend, or head south and east toward Fort Lauderdale and Melbourne. The Overseas Highway to Key West is a memorable longer trip, but camping in the Keys is limited and can be expensive, so reserve sites in advance.
Southwest Florida follows a different seasonal pattern from much of the country. The high season runs roughly December through April, when the weather is more comfortable and campgrounds attract seasonal visitors. State park sites can book months ahead, and private campground rates may be higher. From June through October, heat, humidity, thunderstorms, and mosquitoes increase, but availability may improve. Late November and early May can offer a useful balance, depending on weather and campground schedules.
Lovers Key is about 20 minutes away and Sanibel roughly half an hour, making day trips a practical part of van ownership. A gear garage with drainage and an exterior shower can make beach outings easier by keeping wet equipment, sand, and salt away from the living area.
The DUO Series is designed for two people and generous gear storage, while the FAMILY Series accommodates four with convertible seating and sleeping arrangements.
Roof racks can carry boards and kayaks, while a rear-access gear garage can store other equipment. Rinse salt from racks and fittings after coastal use and check mounting points regularly to help prevent corrosion.
Battery capacity and fresh-water storage deserve particular attention for off-grid trips. Big Cypress has areas with limited facilities and no hookups, while summer heat can increase both power consumption and water use. Plan your capacity around the number of people travelling, expected cooling needs, and time between resupply points.
The dry season, roughly December through April, generally offers more comfortable weather but higher campground demand. The wet season, roughly May through October, brings heat, thunderstorms, and mosquitoes, along with potentially lower campground demand. Air conditioning, battery capacity, water storage, and flexible travel plans become especially important during the hotter months.
Camper packages range from $46,950 to $68,950, complete vehicles start at $115,950, and Bivy models range from $119,700 to $192,570, with Bivy XL starting at $153,700. Included equipment varies by model and configuration, so review the itemized quote before purchase.
Insurance and registration requirements can differ from those for a standard cargo van. Florida insurance costs depend on the vehicle, coverage, location, driver profile, and insurer. NOAH certification may be relevant to some insurers or lenders, but requirements vary. Confirm the classification and documentation your provider requires before purchase.
Chassis maintenance follows the vehicle manufacturer's schedule. Florida heat and UV exposure can age tires even when tread depth remains acceptable, so check tire condition and date codes as part of routine maintenance. Replacement timing depends on the tire manufacturer's guidance, use, and condition.
Keep air-conditioning filters and accessible components clean according to the manufacturer's recommendations. A system with restricted airflow may work harder and use more power. In a coastal environment, inspect electrical connections periodically and maintain appropriate ventilation around the battery bank.
Rinse the vehicle after beach trips, keep it covered where possible, and inspect sealant around roof penetrations regularly. When the van sits unused for weeks, maintain ventilation and consider a dehumidifier when shore power is available.
Covered storage can help protect the van from UV exposure and some weather-related damage. During hurricane season, choose storage away from flood-prone areas and trees where possible. Keep the vehicle maintained and ready to move if local officials issue evacuation instructions.
Supply your own Sprinter or Transit, or purchase a complete van with the chassis included from $115,950. Interior equipment may include cabinetry, a bed platform, galley, seating, and finished surfaces, installed at The Vansmith's Boulder shop.
Depending on the selected configuration, the electrical system can include a lithium house battery, roof solar, DC-DC alternator charging, shore-power input, an inverter, and a battery monitor that displays state of charge.
Features may include a 12V compressor fridge, a sink with pressurized water, a cooktop, a fixed or convertible bed, insulated window covers, and a gear garage with rear-door access on many layouts.
Fresh- and gray-water tanks are sized to the layout, with a pressurized pump and accessible drain points. Climate equipment includes a fuel-fired air heater and powered roof fan, with air conditioning available depending on the selected configuration. An exterior shower is available and standard on the Bivy Plus and Bivy Deluxe.
Equipment and included systems vary by model and package. Air conditioning, additional solar, larger battery banks, suspension upgrades, exterior showers, awnings, roof racks, and bike mounts may be priced individually. See repairs, installations and services.
The Vansmith provides a lifetime cabinetry warranty to the original owner, with no mileage or year limit. Appliance warranties are provided by their respective manufacturers. The Vansmith is NOAH certified.
The Vansmith has been family-owned since 2016 and has crafted more than 300 vans across both platforms and multiple wheelbases.
Nine tailored layouts plus three pre-built Bivy trims provide options for different sleeping arrangements, storage requirements, and travel styles.
Running air conditioning overnight on battery power depends on more than battery size alone. The battery bank, inverter, charging sources, insulation, and air conditioner need to be specified as a coordinated system. This is particularly important in Florida, where a van may need cooling through a hot, humid night without shore power.
The Vansmith crafts camper vans in Boulder, Colorado, where outdoor travel and changing weather are familiar considerations. That experience informs the planning of electrical systems, insulation, ventilation, storage, and vehicle specifications for the routes you intend to travel.
The Vansmith offers service and upgrade work through its Boulder shop. Contact the team for current customer reviews, service availability, and support options for your selected vehicle.
Design calls over video, progress photos throughout the process, and staged payments support remote buyers. The stated payment schedule is a $2,500 design deposit, 50% at design approval, 25% at build launch, and 25% at handover. Review our process and confirm current terms with the team.
Options are priced individually, allowing the quote to itemize your selected equipment and configuration. Confirm the final scope, included systems, and total price before placing your order.
Fort Myers is approximately 2,000 miles from Boulder, Colorado, depending on the route. Delivery is quoted as part of the purchase. Some buyers may choose to fly to Denver and drive their van home, but confirm delivery arrangements, costs, and timing with The Vansmith before making plans.
Confirm the itemized quote, production timeline, and delivery arrangements before work begins. Tailored projects typically take 12 to 16 weeks, while pre-built Bivy models are typically ready in 8 to 10 weeks. Actual availability and timing should be confirmed with the team.
The original owner receives a lifetime cabinetry warranty, with service and upgrade work available through The Vansmith's Boulder shop. Appliance coverage is provided by the relevant manufacturers.
See camper vans for sale, tailored models, and inspected used vans.
Use the van designer and the Bivy comparison to review layouts, features, and available configurations.
The technical specifications above cover important systems for Florida travel. Explore our electrical system, solar installation, and heater installation pages for additional information. Use our RV loan calculator to estimate potential payments.
Call (303) 414-6834 or use our contact page to discuss your requirements and request an itemized quote.
For the statewide overview, visit our page for camper vans in Florida. You can also browse current inventory and compare configurations before contacting the team.
Ready to start planning? Browse camper vans for sale, compare tailored models, or call (303) 414-6834 to discuss your Fort Myers, Florida travel plans.