Drifter Vans

When I started planning and dreaming about van life, I considered a lot of different options for buying/building my van. My first step was to go to RV shows and check out my pre-built options. I quickly decided that based on my wants and needs a campervan built by an RV company was not for me. No judgement at all to anyone who has one of these vans. I just knew that I wanted and needed something different.

I was looking for a van that felt like home. One that would allow me to cook, work, and relax in a space while traveling the country. I wanted to be able to use campgrounds and boondock. I wanted a power system that could handle AC off the grid and all of my electronic needs for work. I DID NOT want a black tank, but I did want to be able to safely drive and park on my own.

After talking to and consulting with several companies and doing way more research than I can tell you, I decided on Drifter Vans in Detroit, Michigan. I chose Drifter for their reputation of excellent customer service, their knowledge and experience, and their variety of van layout options and customizations. Since the day I gave them my initial deposit, I have not had one regret.

If you have been following my story, you know I am on my way back to Drifter for some repairs and upgrades to my van. This may make you wonder if Drifter did such an amazing job building my van, why am I already headed back to Detroit? Well, Lucy is a custom build and in any custom build whether that’s a house or a remodeled kitchen, there will always be small things that just don’t work perfectly. And that is why I am headed back. There are a few small items that need to be fixed, and to no one’s surprise Drifter is more than happy to fix them. In addition, the features and layout of the van were chosen by a girl with no experience (aka me). So, to expect that I would make perfect choices and not need upgrades is not realistic either. So, Lucy and I are headed back to Detroit.

Here is what is on the docket for repair:

• a few sticky drawers

• a starlink port that is acting up

• a garage wall covering that’s not adhering to the wall underneath

Here are the exciting upgrades:

• Adding a ladder: I’m 5’4”, did I actually think I didn’t need a ladder?

• Adding an Acuva water filtration system: Lucy did come with a water filter under the sink. However, having had an Acuva system in my house I realized when I hit the road how much missed it. It is just one of those personal preference things for me. Acuva makes a system that runs on DC power so adding it to Lucy will work out perfectly.

There is some serious weather headed toward Detroit in the next few days. Fingers crossed that the repairs will be done quickly so this Florida girl can outrun the snow!