Lifted Econoline Camper Van | Bigger Better & Cheaper Then Trucks/Suvs For Overlanding | Lift Kits

In a world dominated by the allure of Jeeps and Tacomas, one might wonder if there's room for a different kind of adventure vehicle. Well, enter the van – a beast among overlanding machines. It's time to make the case for why vans reign supreme, and you might be surprised at what makes them so special.

Van, the Unconventional Hero

Let's face it; vans don't always get the attention they deserve in the overlanding scene. They don't have the rugged appearance of a Jeep or the popularity of a Tacoma. But here's the kicker – they look better. Vans, especially full-size ones, possess an elegance and spaciousness that sets them apart from the rest. Just picture this: you can actually walk between the seats of a full-size van to reach your sleeping quarters. And when you look behind, voilà, you've got a cozy living room trailing behind you. No SUV can offer this level of comfort and space.

The Price Tag: A Pleasant Surprise

Now, let's talk dollars and sense. People often gravitate towards Jeeps, Tacomas, Suburbans, Excursions, and Tahoes for overlanding adventures. However, what many don't realize is that vans are a budget-friendly option. So, how much does it cost to turn a basic van into a formidable overlanding machine?

Let's break it down. You can snag a van for as low as ten grand in today's market. Opt for the standard length model; it offers a better departure angle, making it an excellent choice for your adventures. A budget-friendly lift kit will set you back about $500 if you're having it professionally installed. So, we're at $10,500.

When it comes to tires, you'll want to go for 265s. They fit perfectly with a two and a half-inch lift. Including the installation, you're looking at around $11,200. Now, let's give your van some extra off-road prowess with an automatic rear locker – that's approximately $1,600 for installation. We're now just shy of $13,000 for a capable, lifted Econoline, complete with 265 tires and a rear locker. Not bad, right?

The Standard Length Advantage

Here's another secret of the standard-length Econoline: it's lighter, weighing anywhere from 500 to 1,000 pounds less than the extended models. If you opt for the E150, you're even lighter because the E250s and E350s have a thicker frame. So, not only are you saving money, but you're also light on your feet for off-road escapades.

Now, let's kick it up a notch. If you're willing to up the budget a bit, a five-inch lift is a game-changer. For roughly $2,500, you can get the Action Van suspension, but if you need professional installation, budget around $3,300. Add this to the standard build, and you're still under $15,000. If you're aiming for a budget two-and-a-half-inch lift with 265s, you're comfortably under $13,000.

So, the next time someone asks, "What's the cost of a fully-equipped overlanding Wrangler or Tacoma?" you can proudly share the surprisingly affordable price tag of your van build. And the best part? You get to sleep under the stars, just a step away from the comfort of your van.

The Joy of Van Life

Now that we've covered the logistics, let's talk about the sheer joy of van life. It's more than just numbers and practicality; it's about embracing the unconventional and finding excitement in the unexpected.

In the world of automotive hobbies, an overlanding van build is where the fun truly begins. Imagine hitting the open road in a 2012 Ford E350 with a two-inch lift in the front, all while keeping the rear stock. This van is decked out with BF Goodrich KO2s LT265/70R17s on KMC Impact rims – a true overlanding marvel.

But the real magic lies in the experiences you gain. The freedom to explore, the thrill of conquering rough terrains, and the simple pleasure of a comfortable night's sleep are the real rewards of van life. It's an adventure like no other, and the van is your trusty companion on this exciting journey.

So, if you're ever considering an overlanding vehicle, don't be swayed by the crowd's choices. Embrace the uniqueness of a van build, revel in the budget-friendly options, and savor the unforgettable moments that come with it. Van life is a world of creativity, fun, and boundless excitement – and it's calling your name.