Mercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a compact adventure-ready van.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
19.5'Shower
Exterior * * Optional Add-OnsClass B RVs, Conversion Vans & Campervans for Sale in Newark, NJ
Mercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a compact adventure-ready van.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
19.5'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
19.5'Shower
FullMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
Ideal for those who want extra living space and more storage for extended adventures.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
22.9'Shower
Bench * * Optional Add-OnsMercedes Sprinter 170
OR
Ford Transit 148 E
Luxury model with full amenities, extended power systems, and interior bathroom.
Seat & Sleeps
2Length
22.9'Shower
FullMercedes Sprinter 144
OR
Ford Transit 148
Perfect for families who want space, comfort, and functionality in a compact build.
Seat & Sleeps
4Length
19.5'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
22.9'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
22.9'Shower
Full
A camper van in the New York metro area is a different proposition from one in the Mountain West, and it is worth being straight about both sides of that.
The hard part is storage. Newark and the surrounding municipalities have limited street parking, many towns restrict overnight parking of recreational vehicles on residential streets, and a high-roof van stands 9 to 10 feet tall, which is more than most garage doors here. Before you buy, work out where the van will live. For many buyers in this market, that means paid storage, and it is better to factor that cost in from the start than to discover it after delivery.
The good part is everything you can reach. The Delaware Water Gap is about an hour and a half northwest, the Jersey Shore an hour south, Cape May two and a half hours south, and the Catskills two hours north. The White Mountains, Adirondacks, and Blue Ridge are also within a day's drive. For people who want to leave the metro area regularly without booking flights and hotels, a camper van can make weekend and extended road trips easier to plan.
The Vansmith crafts Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit camper vans in Boulder, Colorado, and delivers across New Jersey. Van 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, depending on trim. For the statewide picture, see
camper vans in New Jersey.
A fuel-fired air heater draws from the vehicle's own fuel tank and generates heat using diesel or gasoline rather than relying primarily on the house battery. This supports overnight camping in cold conditions, including shoulder-season and winter trips to the Catskills or White Mountains. Explore our heater installation options to learn more about the systems we offer. Fuel-fired heating can also eliminate the need for onboard propane for cabin heat.
Air conditioning is available across our van options and comes standard on the Bivy Deluxe. Northeast summers can be humid, and temperatures around the metro area can make cabin cooling especially useful. Because air conditioning is one of the largest electrical loads in a camper van, the battery system should be sized for your planned overnight use, particularly when shore power is unavailable.
Insulation across the van's walls, floor, ceiling, and other exposed surfaces helps maintain interior comfort throughout the year. Pre-built Bivy models feature Havelock wool insulation. In a four-season climate, effective insulation helps retain warmth during winter and slow heat gain in summer. It can also reduce outside road noise, making overnight stops more comfortable.
A powered roof fan with variable speed and reversible airflow helps move fresh air through the cabin. Thoughtful airflow around cabinetry can also help limit trapped moisture. The Northeast experiences wet weather throughout the year, and condensation can accumulate in concealed spaces during cold conditions. Regular ventilation is an important part of managing interior humidity alongside heating and air conditioning.
Lithium battery capacity is selected around your expected overnight electricity use, with systems up to 15 kWh available in the Bivy Deluxe. Roof-mounted solar and DC-DC alternator charging help replenish power while traveling and camping. Solar can contribute meaningfully during brighter months, while shorter, cloudier winter days make alternator charging especially useful. Cold-weather performance and charging limits should also be considered. Explore our electrical systems and solar installation options.
Freshwater and gray-water tank capacities depend on the selected layout, with a pressurized pump and accessible drain points supporting everyday use. New Jersey winter temperatures can freeze water in tanks, pipes, and fittings. Before freezing weather, either maintain suitable freeze protection or winterize the system according to its specifications. This may include draining tanks, water lines, and the water heater if fitted, and following the manufacturer's instructions for taps and remaining water.
| Technical Factor | Ford Transit | Mercedes-Benz Sprinter | Why It Matters in Newark |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vehicle platform | Transit 148 or 148 extended | Sprinter 144 or 170 | Both take every layout we build; the choice is cost and service, not capability |
| Body configuration | High roof cargo van | High roof cargo van | High roof gives standing headroom inside for most adults |
| Interior height | Standing headroom in high roof form | Standing headroom in high roof form | Confirm exact interior height against your own height at order |
| Overall length | Approx. 19.5 ft or 22.9 ft built | Approx. 19.5 ft or 22.9 ft built | Decides whether an interior shower fits |
| Vehicle width | Comparable across both | Comparable across both | Both fit a standard parking space and lane |
| Powertrain options | Gas V6 | Diesel | Diesel gives more range per tank on long runs to New England or the Adirondacks |
| Drivetrain | RWD or AWD | RWD, AWD or 4x4 | AWD helps on snowy Poconos, Catskills and Adirondack roads; 4x4 matters only for rough terrain |
| Electrical system | Identical options on both | Identical options on both | Battery, inverter, charging and monitoring specified as one system |
| Solar capacity | Sized to roof area and layout | Sized to roof area and layout | Solar is productive in summer; short winter days make DC-DC charging more important |
| Battery capacity | Lithium, sized to your draw | Lithium, sized to your draw | The single most important spec for running air conditioning off-grid |
| Alternator charging | DC-DC charging available | DC-DC charging available | Refills the bank on long highway drives |
| Shore power | Available on both | Available on both | The practical answer for all-night cooling in peak summer |
| Cooling requirements | 12V air conditioning available | 12V air conditioning available | Size the battery bank around this, not the other way round |
| Heating requirements | Fuel-fired heater available | Fuel-fired heater available | Runs off the vehicle's own fuel tank, using very little battery |
| Water system | Fresh and gray tanks, sized to layout | Fresh and gray tanks, sized to layout | Sized to the gaps between services on your usual routes |
| Refrigeration | 12V compressor fridge | 12V compressor fridge | Keeps food cold for days without ice |
| Storage capacity | Gear garage, cabinets, roof racks | Gear garage, cabinets, roof racks | Usually the real constraint, more than floor space |
| Sleeping capacity | 2 in DUO layouts, 4 in FAMILY | 2 in DUO layouts, 4 in FAMILY | Seatbelt count, not floor space, decides family suitability |
| Ground clearance | Stock clearance similar to Sprinter | Stock clearance similar to Transit | Suspension and tire choice matter more than platform on gravel |
| Turning and maneuverability | 148 turns more tightly than 148 extended | 144 turns more tightly than 170 | Wheelbase drives this, not brand |
| Parking requirements | Standard space at short wheelbase | Standard space at short wheelbase | Height, roughly 9 to 10 ft, is the binding constraint |
| Payload capacity | Adequate headroom for a full build | Adequate headroom for a full build | Confirm GVWR against final build weight for your chassis |
| Towing capacity | Rated to tow; confirm for your chassis | Rated to tow; confirm for your chassis | Towing changes how a loaded van handles and brakes |
| Service considerations | Ford dealers throughout North Jersey | Mercedes-Benz Vans service in the New York metro | A real factor if the van is your daily vehicle |
| Best comparison criteria | Lower cost, easier local service | Longer range, stronger resale | Both are well supported here, so budget and how far you drive decide it |
Seven tailored layouts across the two-person DUO Series and four-person FAMILY Series, plus three pre-built Bivy trims. Browse all tailored models and our Class B RVs for sale. A Class B RV is a camper built inside a van body rather than on a truck chassis. For many buyers in this metro area, a van-based RV is a practical option because it is generally easier to drive and park than a larger motorhome. However, garage clearance, storage access, and local parking rules still need to be checked.
The Ford Transit generally costs less to purchase and service and has broad dealer coverage across northern New Jersey. All-wheel drive is available on applicable model years. The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter offers AWD and, on applicable configurations, 4x4 capability, making it worth considering for winter mountain trips and more demanding routes. Compare our Sprinter van options, Ford Transit van options, and Sprinter vs. Transit comparison.
DUO starts at $46,950, DUO S at $53,950, DUO XL at $56,950, and DUO XLS at $63,950. FAMILY starts at $51,950, FAMILY XL at $61,950, and FAMILY XLS at $68,950. Pre-built Bivy models include the Classic at $119,700 with 5 kWh of battery capacity, the Plus at $145,845 with 10 kWh, a diesel cabin heater and exterior shower, and the Deluxe at $192,570 with 15 kWh, air conditioning and a Rixen hydronic heater. Bivy XL models start at $153,700. Compare the available trims in our Bivy comparison.
Browse current inventory, including available inspected used vans, on our camper vans for sale page. Complete vehicles with the chassis included start at $115,950. Final pricing depends on the model, vehicle platform, selected equipment, and availability.
Newark is approximately 1,800 miles from our Boulder, Colorado, shop. Delivery is quoted as part of the purchase. Some buyers choose to fly to Denver, collect their van, and drive it home, making the return journey an opportunity to become familiar with the vehicle.
Many trips from Newark are weekend escapes to the Delaware Water Gap, Jersey Shore, Catskills, or Poconos. These trips reward a van that is easy to load, comfortable on interstate drives, and practical to park, rather than one specified primarily for backcountry terrain you may rarely encounter.
The DUO Series is designed for two, with a fixed bed and practical gear storage. The FAMILY Series accommodates four with convertible seating and sleeping arrangements. Explore our camper vans for couples and family van options to compare layouts.
A gear garage beneath the bed, rear-door access, drainage, and available roof or hitch racks help organize camping equipment. In a metro area, enclosed storage also helps keep gear out of sight when the van is parked. Consider how much equipment you carry and whether your storage facility can accommodate the finished vehicle's height and length.
Freshwater, gray-water, and battery capacity influence how long you can stay away from services. For longer journeys from Newark, road comfort, practical storage, and reliable charging are important alongside off-grid capability because reaching more remote destinations often involves substantial driving.
Newark provides access to destinations across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Depending on your route and trip length, you can reach Acadia, the White Mountains, the Adirondacks, the Finger Lakes, Allegheny National Forest, Shenandoah, the Outer Banks, and much of the Mid-Atlantic coast. A camper van lets you combine destinations and adjust your plans without depending entirely on hotel reservations.
The DUO Series includes four layouts for two, with a fixed bed and a gear garage designed to make practical use of the available space. Compare wheelbase, shower configuration, storage, and electrical options when choosing a model for city parking and weekend travel.
Three FAMILY layouts accommodate up to four people with convertible seating and sleeping arrangements. Available configurations span short and extended wheelbases, with storage and shower options varying by model.
The pre-built Bivy lineup starts at $119,700 and includes three trims, with the Bivy XL also available. The Classic, Plus and Deluxe use the Sprinter 144 AWD platform and the Bivy XL uses the Sprinter 170 AWD; all feature a pop-top and Havelock wool insulation. Estimated availability is 8 to 10 weeks (10 to 14 weeks for the Bivy XL), compared with approximately 12 to 16 weeks for tailored builds. Confirm current inventory and delivery timing before ordering.
Short-wheelbase Sprinter 144 and Transit 148 configurations are approximately 19.5 feet long, while the Sprinter 170 and Transit 148 extended configurations are approximately 22.9 feet long. High-roof vans can stand approximately 9 to 10 feet tall, depending on the vehicle and finished configuration. For Newark-area buyers, a shorter wheelbase can provide more parking and storage choices and make everyday driving easier. Always measure the finished vehicle against your intended parking and storage space.
The DUO Series sleeps two on a fixed bed, while the FAMILY Series accommodates four using convertible seating and sleeping arrangements. Bivy models provide sleeping for two, with additional sleeping capacity dependent on the selected configuration. Consider seatbelt capacity separately from sleeping capacity when traveling with passengers.
Electrical options include a lithium battery bank, roof solar, DC-DC alternator charging, shore power, and battery monitoring. A fuel-fired air heater uses the vehicle's fuel supply. Freshwater and gray-water tanks are sized to the selected layout, with accessible drain points to support maintenance and winterization. System specifications vary by model and selected equipment.
Approximately an hour and a half northwest, the Delaware Water Gap follows the Delaware River through the Kittatinny Ridge. The area offers waterfalls, paddling, Appalachian Trail access, and campgrounds on both the New Jersey and Pennsylvania sides. Summer weekends can be busy, so plan parking and campground reservations ahead of time.
The Jersey Shore is roughly an hour east or southeast from parts of Newark, depending on the destination and traffic. Island Beach State Park is known for its largely undeveloped barrier-island landscape and day-use recreation. For overnight stays, consider nearby campgrounds, including options around Bass River and Brendan T. Byrne State Forest, and verify seasonal availability before traveling.
Cape May is approximately two and a half hours south in typical driving conditions, although seasonal traffic can extend the journey. Explore Cape May Point, the lighthouse, bird migration areas, and nearby public or private campgrounds. The Cape May-Lewes Ferry can also connect a longer road trip with Delaware and the Chesapeake region.
The Catskills are approximately two hours north, depending on the destination. The region offers state campgrounds, swimming holes, hiking, and autumn foliage. Popular trailheads and campgrounds can fill quickly during fall weekends, so check local restrictions and reservations before setting out.
Pennsylvania's parks and forests offer additional destinations west of Newark. Worthington State Forest is near the Delaware Water Gap on the New Jersey side, while the Poconos provide further hiking and camping options. Some Pennsylvania state forest areas allow dispersed camping under specific rules or permit requirements. Check the relevant forest district's current regulations before planning an overnight stay.
Many Northeast state park campgrounds operate primarily from spring through autumn, although some locations offer year-round access. Summer and fall weekends can book well in advance, particularly near the Delaware Water Gap and in the Catskills. Winter trips require checking campground availability, road conditions, and local camping rules. Do not assume that highway rest areas, service plazas, or public parking lots permit overnight stays or sleeping in a vehicle. Confirm permitted overnight locations before departure.
Van packages range from $46,950 to $68,950 for the listed DUO and FAMILY models when fitted to a vehicle you supply. Complete vehicles with the chassis included start at $115,950. Bivy prices range from $119,700 to $192,570, with the Bivy XL starting at $153,700. Check current inventory and confirm the final quote for your chosen configuration.
Electrical and living systems vary by layout and equipment specification. Available equipment includes a lithium bank, roof solar, DC-DC charging, shore power, an inverter, battery monitoring, a fuel-fired heater, a powered roof fan, a 12V compressor refrigerator, and fresh and gray-water tanks. Air conditioning, additional solar, larger battery banks, suspension upgrades, winter tire packages, exterior showers, awnings, and racks may be available at additional cost. Explore our repairs, installations, and services for more information.
Newark is approximately 1,800 miles from Boulder. Transport is quoted as part of the purchase rather than estimated here, since the final cost depends on the delivery arrangements and vehicle.
Registration and insurance requirements depend on the vehicle, its title and classification, and the details of the completed camper. Insurance costs also vary by location, driver, coverage, and insurer. NOAH certification may be relevant to some insurers or lenders, but acceptance is not universal. Confirm current registration requirements with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and obtain insurance approval before completing your purchase.
Chassis servicing follows the vehicle manufacturer's schedule, with local service availability worth considering when comparing platforms. New Jersey uses road salt during winter weather, so wash the underbody periodically during the season and arrange regular inspections of the undercarriage, brake lines, and exhaust system.
Include potential paid storage in your ownership budget if you cannot keep the van at home. Covered or indoor storage can help reduce exposure to winter weather and road salt. Before seasonal storage, follow the manufacturer's winterization instructions, drain the water system as required, maintain the house battery at an appropriate state of charge, and use a suitable breathable vehicle cover if needed.
The Vansmith has more than 300 vans built since 2016, with experience across Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and Ford Transit platforms and multiple wheelbase configurations. This experience helps inform recommendations around layout, vehicle size, electrical requirements, and intended travel.
Choose from four DUO layouts for two, three FAMILY layouts for four, and pre-built Bivy options. Bivy models offer an estimated 8 to 10 week availability window, subject to current stock and delivery arrangements.
Cabinetry, galley, bed, and storage are designed around how you intend to travel. For metro-area buyers, a shorter wheelbase, secure gear storage, and effective insulation for both noise and temperature may be especially useful considerations.
Battery storage, solar, DC-DC charging, shore power, inverter capacity, and monitoring are specified as part of an integrated electrical system. Available options can be priced individually, helping you prioritize the equipment that matters most for your trips.
The Vansmith is based in Boulder, Colorado, where the team works with vans intended for varied weather and long-distance travel. For Newark-area owners planning winter trips to the Adirondacks or White Mountains, the selected heating, insulation, tires, and electrical equipment should be matched to the conditions you expect to encounter.
The Vansmith offers a lifetime cabinetry warranty to the original owner, with no mileage or year limit, subject to applicable terms. Appliances and other equipment may have separate manufacturer warranties. The Vansmith is NOAH certified. Review current warranty details and support arrangements before ordering.
Delivery can be arranged and quoted as part of the purchase. Design consultations can take place over video, with progress photos shared throughout the process.
Browse our camper vans for sale, tailored models, and inspected used vans. Use the van designer and Bivy comparison to explore the available options.
Equipment and upgrades can affect the final price, so request an itemized quote for your selected vehicle, layout, and options before placing an order.
Design consultations can take place over video, with progress photos shared during the process. 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 for further details.
Transport is quoted with the purchase. Tailored builds typically take 12 to 16 weeks, while pre-built Bivy models are estimated at 8 to 10 weeks, subject to availability and confirmation.
Review the lifetime cabinetry warranty for the original owner, applicable manufacturer warranties, registration requirements, insurance arrangements, and available service and upgrade support before purchasing.
Call (303) 414-6834 or contact The Vansmith through our contact page to discuss model availability, pricing, and delivery to Newark.
Explore our camper vans for sale and tailored models to compare layouts and available vehicles.
Use the van designer and Bivy comparison to explore configurations. Estimate monthly payments with our RV loan calculator and learn more about camper van financing.
Current stock is listed on our camper vans for sale page. Pre-built Bivy models have an estimated 8 to 10 week timeline, subject to current inventory.
Call (303) 414-6834, use our contact page, or visit us at 7209 Valtec Court Unit B, Boulder, CO 80301. For the statewide overview, see camper vans in New Jersey.