Campervan Ownership and Lifestyle
Written By Gretchen Bayless
Features to Look for in a Campervan
One of the many benefits of owning an Axis van as a recreational vehicle is that it can easily do double duty as an everyday vehicle. Trust us, it’s great for adding a bit of adventure to the everyday, and we mean that in the best way possible. So without further ado, here are the top things to consider when deciding whether to use your Axis Vehicles campervan as a daily driver.
What Kind of Gas Mileage Does the Campervan Get?
Ford Transit campervans get better mileage than you might expect. Most fully converted campervans get around 15 city/19 hwy mpg. Which isn’t bad considering what you get in return. If your Axis Vehicles campervan will be replacing a truck or large SUV, you’re probably used to this gas mileage range. If you are currently driving a car, this increased gas mileage might feel like a punch in the gut. But remember, there will be other cost savings from not having the expense of two vehicles. Quick Note: Average MPG for an Axis Van is 16.
Are There Any Cost Savings to Owning a Campervan as Your Daily Driver?
Cost savings vary depending on a lot of different factors, but here are some things to consider when deciding whether an Axis Vehicle campervan will work for you as a daily commuter. There are a lot of expenses associated with owning any vehicle: insurance, maintenance, emissions and safety testing (depending on state), registration, and tires. The list can get pretty long. And when you double the costs, it really adds up. By using your campervan as a daily driver, you eliminate the need to maintain a separate vehicle, which can reduce many of these costs. It means only one vehicle that needs an oil change, only one vehicle to buy tires for, and only one vehicle to worry about unexpected costs for. You get the idea. Plus, Axis Vehicle Outfitters focuses on builds that emphasize quality and minimalism. That means you won’t be driving around the added weight of an overbuilt rig. And you still don’t sacrifice quality materials built to withstand the rigors of an adventurous life. These savings may also offset any increases in costs associated with gas mileage.
Axis Vehicles Van Specs
Driveability is a Key Feature in a Ford Transit
People are always surprised at how easy Ford Transits are to drive.
Yes, they are a big vehicle that may feel intimidating at first, but you quickly acclimate. The benefit of campervans over other types of RVs is that they fit in all but the smallest parking spots. This makes finding parking less of an issue. Ford Transits are designed to carry heavy loads, and Axis Vehicles focus on keeping weight down without sacrificing quality of material. That means you won’t noticed a big difference in acceleration, braking, or gas mileage. Most people used to driving small cars actually enjoy driving around in a van. Although it doesn’t whip around in traffic, it feels safer. And sitting up high gives you a whole new perspective. Plus, you don’t sacrifice any of the comforts of driving a more common commuter vehicle. Ford Transits have comfortable seats, Bluetooth radios, backup cameras, and other amenities that make driving a bit more comfortable.
Running Errands in Your Campervan Just Became So Much Easier!
Running errands is a lot easier and more fun in an Axis Vehicles campervan. You can swing into a grocery store literally any time that is convenient. With a 65L Truckfridge, you don’t have to worry about perishables spoiling. This means you can grab groceries on your lunch break, on the way to pick up the kids, or when you happen to be near a favorite grocery store. It really is a nice plus. And of course, you have extra space for those big purchases that don’t fit in standard vehicles. Go ahead and buy that big-screen TV. It’ll fit.
The Campervan That Fits Whole Family
Get ready to be everyone’s favorite carpool ride.
An Axis Vehicles campervan makes being an active family so much easier. All our vans seat up to 5 people, so there’s room for the whole family (and maybe some friends, too). You have a kitchen and refrigerator everywhere you go. And you can take a quick nap at a moment's notice. That means you can cook a healthy meal while your kids are at soccer practice (and even eat around a foldout table. You can always have healthy snacks and drinks on hand. And if you’re at a busy tournament, event, or trailhead, there’s no need to lose your parking spot or fight traffic. You have everything you need with you. Are you a young family? Perfect. You have a bed for naptimes. A fridge for bottles, half-eaten snacks, and fresh fruits and veggies. You have a place to change diapers or nurse in comfort and privacy. You have the ultimate family vehicle without having to sacrifice “cool” points. It’s win, win, win in our opinion.
Finding the Work - Life Balance
Using your campervan as an everyday driver makes getting out for adventure easy peasy.
Jet out to a trailhead after work. Spend a comfortable night close to nature. Start your day with a nice hike or spin down a singletrack before heading to work the next day. It beats the heck out of going to the gym. Plus, if you work remotely, you can use your Axis Vehicles van as a mobile office. Tired of working from home? Awesome. Head practically ANYWHERE else and enjoy the comfort of a home office with a better view. And you can brew a quick cup of good coffee without having to pay a premium price. Grab a quick trail run in at lunch. Then, when the workday is done, you’re already a little closer to adventure.
Using Your Campervan for a Quick Getaway
Weekend getaways just got easier.
There’s no transitioning from one vehicle to the next when the weekend hits. You can stay loaded and ready for adventure at all times. That means hitting the road earlier, so you can squeeze every fun-filled minute out of the weekend.
Why the Revolver Layout Van Build Suits Adventure and Everyday Life
Built on the Ford Transit 148” wheelbase, it’s easy to drive. And, to be honest, you’re going to WANT to drive it everywhere.
The thoughtful design of our Revolver Layout makes it the perfect combination of daily driver and adventure van. With rugged materials that stand up to the rigors of adventure and everyday life, you never have to worry about dirty feet or paws. Features like a butcher block countertop and marine ply subfloor with a Lonseal Commercial grade finish ensure you get quality materials without adding a bunch of weight. This means your van’s engine and brakes don’t have to work extra hard, and you can load up on weekends with ALL your outdoor equipment without worrying about weight limits. The Revolver Layout optimizes living space while still seating (and sleeping) 5. This gives you plenty of space to work, play, and cook without sacrificing seating. You get all the benefits of an adventure vehicle with all the convenience of a daily commuter.
So go get dirty because life’s too short to drive a minivan.
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Video of an Axis Vehicle Outfitters van that is used as a daily driver. Drop the kids at school then head to the mountains for a hike or the ski hill for some runs.
Gretchen Bayless
