With more brands cramming every creature comfort of home into their latest campervan builds, the sticker prices have gotten out of control. If a $200K+ model is out of your price range, but a from-scratch build seems too daunting, Outside Van has something that might interest you: the new Baseline.
In the company’s own words, “Baseline is your head-start into building your own adventure van.” Outside Van brings its considerable design and building chops to bear by tackling all of the hardest tasks of a typical campervan build so you don’t have to. That includes things like cutting holes in the chassis, rigging up a general “infrastructure” kit to attach your fixtures and furniture to, and installing everything from windows and vents to insulation and flooring. The result is a barebones campervan build that’s a little like a “roughed-in” home construction job that’s ready for your finishing touches.
At its core, the Baseline rides on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 144 or 170 framework with a high roof, diesel engine, and 4WD or all-wheel drive — your call. Outside Van then outfits each model with the basics, including sound damping, precision-cut floor, wall, and ceiling panels, and wire passthroughs to make way for any necessary cabling. OV even provides basic creature comforts, like a removable, three-panel bed system (with plenty of room underneath for your favorite outdoor gear), dimmable ceiling lights, and windows all around. A CO2 detector and fire extinguisher are included to give you a headstart on the safety front, too.
The Baseline is available to order direct from Outside Van with a starting price of $89,000 for the entry-level Sprinter 144 or $96,000 for the extended wheelbase Sprinter 170.
