I'm so very new to this...I want a new van to use for hauling my dogs around to all their shows and events. (I swear, I drive more than a soccer mom!) I've never had a customized van, so all of the options seem a bit overwhelming. While I'm fairly handy, I'm really not handy enough to do any real customization.
I'm trying to figure out if the best approach is to buy a stock (or custom ordered) van from a dealer and just make it work? Or have it outfitted to fit my specific needs. And if I have it outfitted, is this such a plain customization that anyone could do it? Or should I make the pilgramage to Sportsmobile?
I know I want a Sprinter. Plan to buy new.
I'm planning on the high roof...just so I can easily stack crates.
I know I want lots of creature comforts when driving. (Cup holders, leather seats, iphone integration, power windows, etc.)
I don't need to camp, so don't really need the RV features. A fridge would be nice, but not required.
I want the interior to look nice...maybe not luxurious, but not just crates thrown into the back of a van.
I need to keep everyone cool on hot southern California days, so insulation and air conditioning is a must.
It has to be fairly easy to keep clean.
This won't be my daily driver. My trips are usually 1 to 3 days. I always travel with two dogs, but sometimes as many as 5.
I only need seats for the driver and one passenger, but it would be nice to be able to seat another person now and again.
I'm short. Steps would be nice
I'd love an outside awning. I imagine hanging out at a lure coursing event, the dogs lounging in their crates in the van, me sitting out under the awning in a camp chair.
Stuff that needs to go in the van:
- Two large crates (42”x28”x30” each)
- Two smaller crates (36”x23”x25”)
- Canopy for the show site (48” x 12” x 12”)
- A small collection of folding crates, chairs and pens (approximate dimension as one big crate—42x28x30) Nice if these could be stacked on end to make it easier to get any one out without having to dig through the pile.
- Travel bin (usually just one, about the same size as a smaller crate 36x23x25)
- Cart for hauling stuff to the show site (38”x32”x10”)
- A collection of smaller bags and coolers for training stuff.
And that's about it.
Next decisions I have to make:
- What length? Is the regular body long enough for my needs?
- Sportsmobile? Local dealer with local outfitter? Or just a local dealer custom ordered?
Any advice for an overwhelmed noob?