Dave Luke | Vanbassador

As an avid adventurer—ice climber, snowboarder, mountain biker, camper, rock climber, and sometimes a hiker—I always dreamed of a home base that was as versatile and rugged as my lifestyle. My journey to van life began on a rainy day in Fruita, Colorado, nestled in a camper. Watching fellow campers struggle against the elements, I realized I craved flexibility and adventure without sacrificing comfort.

The Road to Van Life

Initially, my goal was to build a mountain home in New Hampshire, but financial constraints and the desire for freedom redirected my plans. Researching campers, RVs, trailers, and everything in between, I kept circling back to one solution—a van.

It was in Fruita, amid that stormy weekend, the decision became crystal clear. Vans were resilient, practical, and exactly what my adventurous heart needed.

Finding Wayfarer Vans

After deep diving into research, the RAM Promaster 2500 stood out as the perfect van, sturdy enough for winter adventures yet nimble enough for everyday life. Initially exploring custom builds and DIY options, I quickly realized the former was prohibitively expensive and inflexible, while DIY seemed overwhelming and time-consuming.

Enter Wayfarer Vans, a name that kept reappearing in my research. Their modular design offered exactly what I needed: adaptability and immediate usability. With Wayfarer, I could start “living out of my van” right away, adding or modifying elements as my adventures evolved.

My Wayfarer Build Experience

After heartfelt conversations with Ian and Austin from Wayfarer, I was convinced this was the right path. After purchasing my Promaster, I scheduled my build to coincide with my 52nd birthday—talk about the ultimate birthday present!

Arriving at Wayfarer’s Colorado Springs facility after a two-and-a-half-day drive, the excitement was palpable. The team was incredibly welcoming and by afternoon, my van was fully transformed into a versatile adventure machine. Immediately, a friend and I embarked on a memorable 10-day exploration of Colorado—My first grand adventure in my Wayfarer Van – “ICE Climber”.

Van Life Evolution

Life with my Wayfarer Van has been a journey of constant excitement and refinement. As seasons shift, so do my needs, and the modular setup has effortlessly accommodated these changes. Whether winter camping beneath icefalls, stoking campfires after a snowy day on the slopes, or relaxing in forest campsites, the van has adapted perfectly.

As a Wayfarer Vanbassador, I’m proud and thrilled to be part of this vibrant community. Regular visits to Colorado Springs for upgrades and reconnecting with the amazing team add a personal touch to the journey.

Why You Should Consider Wayfarer Vans

If you’re contemplating van life, take a moment for personal reflection. Ask yourself what kind of life you truly desire and what adventures fuel your passion. For me, Wayfarer Vans was not just a vehicle builder—it became a community of fellow adventurers, dedicated craftsmen, and friends.

Embracing van life with Wayfarer has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made—adventure awaits, and I’m always ready to roll.