This Cozy Camper Van Takes Security to the Next Level, There's No Way You Can Steal It

Meet James and Dawn, the owners and converters of a 2014 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter with a 170" wheelbase. Before we take a look inside it, I'd like to discuss its exterior features.

The couple initially wanted to get their hands on an AWD Sprinter van but couldn't find one. So, they increased the off-road capabilities of their camper by equipping it with Maxxis Worm-Drive all-terrain tires and an aluminum suspension lift kit.

Next, let's talk security – James describes himself as a "security nerd," and he wanted to feel as safe as possible in his tiny home on wheels. So, he came up with multiple solutions.

First, James set up deadlocks for the van's doors, which offer superior protection compared to standard locking systems. What's more, he installed HEO locks on the inside of the front doors, which secure to the A-pillars.

Right by the passenger's side door (which is on the left of the vehicle since this is a UK Sprinter van), you'll notice an RFID scanner. James has a tag on his keys that, when scanned, electronically unlocks the main sliding door. So, even if someone drills through the standard lock, they won't be able to slide open the door.

This setup would probably be enough for most people, but James didn't stop there. He fitted security cameras all around the van for a 360-degree view, and he can access their live feed via an app on his phone.

But wait, there's more. Let's imagine that thieves somehow manage to bypass all the above-mentioned features. Sure, they'll have access to their belongings, but they won't be able to leave with their van. That's because James and Dawn fitted a pedal box, which locks and prevents anyone from driving off with their tiny home.

But let's go even further and picture the worst-case scenario in which a thief somehow managed to remove the pedal box. There's one last measure that won't let them leave with their beloved camper van: an immobilizer. James and Dawn have a secret code they have to input in order to start the vehicle. If worse comes to worst and all these features fail, a GPS tracker allows them to monitor the vehicle's location.

These security measures offer you some extra peace of mind when traveling – some of you might think it's a bit overkill, but I'd say nothing's overkill when it comes to your safety. Sure, you could probably make do with fewer security measures - I'd suggest every van dweller to at least install some deadlocks on their mobile homes. Now, let's move on to the exterior tour.

At the front, you'll notice two LED light bars: one right above the license plate and one up top. Moreover, at the rear, this couple fitted a spare tire carrier and some lights. Other notable exterior features are side fiberglass pods, one on each side, which each increase the interior space at the rear by 4 inches (10 centimeters).

Sprinters are curved toward the top, and sleeping in one from side to side is possible only if you're a shorter person. That's why many van dwellers who choose to convert Sprinters go for flares or pods. By the way, if you're interested in learning more about the reliability of some of the most popular vans suitable for camper conversions, check out a recent article I wrote about this topic.

You'll discover a spacious, brightly designed living space inside. What's more, James and Dawn opted for an open layout, meaning they didn't separate the driver's cabin from the rest of the interior. In the front part of the van, you'll also notice a skylight, an enormous headliner shelf, a swivel table, and swiveling driver and passenger seats.

One of the trips that James and Dawn wanted to make was to the Arctic Circle, specifically the highest point in Norway. So, they made sure their van was properly insulated by using Celotex PIR boards (made from polyurethane), sheep wool for pockets and corners, and Reflectix insulation. By the way, a diesel heater warms up this rig's interior.

Dead ahead of the entrance, you'll find a 6-foot (182-centimeter) couch that can be transformed into a double bed. Above, there are two sizeable overhead cabinets. Moreover, a projector screen can be rolled down from the ceiling, perfectly positioned to enjoy a movie while lying on the couch.

A kitchen counter blocks part of the entrance and runs through the interior to the bedroom at the rear. The kitchen features a dual-burner induction stove, a slide-out electric oven, a long walnut countertop with a flip-up extension, a huge Belfast sink with a drinking water filter, a magnetic knife rack, and two overhead cabinets with spice jars mounted underneath.

Since the induction stove is mounted near the entrance, all the smell and smoke can be ventilated out. What's more, a ceiling Maxxair fan also helps circulate the air.

Opposite the sink, James and Dawn devised a bathroom. It boasts a shower with a rain head, a composting toilet, a small garbage can, and a self-cleaning door.

Regarding aesthetics, the kitchen has a grey backsplash imitating subway tiles, and the grey theme continues in the bathroom, as it comes with grey walls.

Finally, the rear part of the interior is occupied by the bedroom, which, as I mentioned earlier, is designed to sleep the couple from side to side. It has a skylight and a Maxxair fan above, as well as two overhead cabinets for storage. Moreover, the bed is positioned higher up and sits on an aluminum frame.

To access this van's garage, you'll have to exit the vehicle and open the two rear doors. The garage holds the rig's utility systems and various tools and gear.

The power system is on the left side - highlights are 800 Ah batteries, an inverter, and a charge controller connected to 525 W solar panels on the roof. Moreover, the water system comprises a 37-gallon (140-liter) freshwater tank, a heater, and an outdoor shower port.

All in all, James and Dawn did an excellent job with this tiny home on wheels, especially since they're self-taught and this is their first camper project - it took them just 8 month to complete the build. The superior level of security is nice to have, and the living space is spacious, clean, and well-equipped.