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In this episode, I discuss van power systems and whether or not it still makes sense to build your own in 2025. All-in-one power stations have come down in price, and it may be better to buy a turn-key system instead of building your own. I'll compare the price of a popular power station ("solar generator") to my own system, along with what it will take to power the air conditioner in my Odyssey camper conversion.

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The companion post for this episode, with photos, is located at:

https://odysseycamper.com/6000-miles-mercedes-sprinter-as-an-rv/

Darren from Odyssey Camper recounts his 6,000-mile journey in a Mercedes Benz Sprinter cargo van, offering insights for those considering a similar vehicle for RV conversion. He details both advantages like fuel economy, power, spaciousness, and handling and disadvantages such as turbo lag, difficult entry/exit, parking challenges, and a poorly designed backup camera. The author also discusses specific maintenance considerations and unique driving experiences compared to a personal vehicle like a Honda Odyssey, ultimately concluding that while the Sprinter has strengths, it's not a good replacement for his minivan. The blog post serves as a practical, firsthand review for potential van builders, highlighting unexpected aspects of driving a large cargo van.

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The companion post for this episode, with photos, is located at

https://odysseycamper.com/slow-cooker-van-bread/

This week we examine the benefits of using a slow cooker while traveling in a minivan camper. The author, Darren, highlights the low power consumption of slow cookers and their versatility for making various meals like stews, sauces, and even bread. A specific no-knead bread recipe tailored for a 1.5-quart slow cooker is included, emphasizing its simplicity and the pleasant aroma it creates. The piece also touches on the convenience of cooking while driving and offers links to purchase necessary equipment like slow cookers and inverters. Overall, the article promotes slow cooking as a practical and enjoyable way to prepare hot meals during minivan camping adventures.

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