Rigs We Dig: HEST Van | Mercedes Sprinter Van 144 4wd '21

August 11, 2022 2 min read

HEST Rigs We Dig GMC Sierra Camper Buildout Back of truck Dually

Your name: HEST

Location: Seattle, Washington

Nickname: Dream Machine

Make & Model: Mercedes Sprinter Van 144 4wd

Year:2021, Automatic

HEST products: HEST Dually Wide & HEST Standard Pillows

Critical dimensions for your bed platform:
Length: 72"

Width (at narrowest point): 60"

Is this your daily driver or getaway car?
The Dream Machine is a getaway car! This van was purpose built for use as an events and adventures rig.

What do you like most about your rig?

It really is a game changer with the convenience and functionality for events and camping trips. The auxiliary power is key for running the Dometic Cooler and charging laptops and phones on the go. The Zamp Solar panels on top keep the battery charged when we are at an event for a few days. The Vanmade window shades have been a huge upgrade - especially while traveling around this summer. And the recent addition of the Roam Adventure Co RTT is amazing for adding another bedroom!

On your average weekend adventure, what is the gear set up you bring with you? How did you navigate gear storage needs into your rig set up?
When we’re in event mode, the van is schlepping lots of event gear and products to sell. Usually when we roll up to an event the van is packed to the gills, which is why we love our platform bed from Flatline Van Co! Having the bed platform totally open beneath allows for lots of flexibility in terms of storage. Also crucial to our packing situation: the box storage system from Roam Adventure Co.! Being able to store camping stuff in a secure way on the roof opens up more space inside. When we’re out adventuring in the van, it usually has whatever bikes, skis, boards, etc... basically whatever we are riding on that season.

Any cool custom details you’re proud of?
The details! We love the Pendelton paneling put in by Mountain Standard who did an incredible job on the build out. Also the wrap designed by Ryan Schmies at Schmies Designis amazing! He is a friend and has designed some of the most iconic ski graphics in the world, and he crushed the van graphic! We love tromping around the country in it.

Coolest place you’ve taken your rig to?
The HEST Van made its big debut at our inaugural HESTIVAL this past spring at Big B’s Delicious Orchard. HESTIVAL was our first time hosting/producing a large scale event so to have two monumental milestones happening the same day (new van and event) felt pretty dang special.

Any projects in the pipeline to get the cruiser even more adventure ready?
Oh- so many! Now that we are van owners, it is a constant project. We look forward to outfitting it for camping this winter on some ski missions.

Biggest challenge in your build out?
Sourcing a van took a while!

Tips for others looking to do the same to their vehicle?
Similar to a lot of things in life, you just got to run with it! You can try your best to pre-plan everything but sometimes it’s best to literally jump in the driver’s seat and take it out for a test- camp in it and see what changes or modifications you’d like to make.