Expedition Truck vs. Van Life: Which Is Right for You?
If you’re thinking about hitting the road and living the kind of life where the only schedule that matters is sunrise and sunset—you’re not alone. Whether that dream takes shape as a rugged expedition truck or a cozy adventure van, both options have their perks (and their trade-offs).
Let’s break it down.
Expedition Trucks
Expedition trucks are for those who want to truly go anywhere. Think deserts, backcountry trails, and alpine passes—the kind of places an RV or van could only dream of reaching.
Pros
Go absolutely anywhere — Designed for rough terrain and long distances, these trucks are built to handle whatever the world throws at them.
Carry everything you need — Bikes, skis, fishing gear, extra fuel, tools, you name it. There’s room for all of it.
Stay off-grid longer — Large water tanks, solar setups, and battery systems mean you can stay out for weeks to months, not just days.
Fully customizable — From the chassis to the cabinetry, every inch can be tailored to your lifestyle and travel goals.
Spacious living — You’ll have room to stretch out, cook a real meal, and sleep comfortably, even with company.
Pet-friendly — Big rigs mean big space for your four-legged travel buddies.
One-of-a-kind — You won’t see another one just like yours on the highway.
Cons
Storage — You’ll need a good-sized spot to park when you’re not traveling.
Higher cost — These builds are an investment both in time and money.
Longer build time — A full expedition truck can take months (sometimes a year) to complete.
Finding the right chassis — Sourcing and possibly importing a solid truck base can take time.
Maintenance logistics — While not impossible, finding a shop familiar with heavy-duty trucks can be a little trickier than your standard van.
Van Life
Van builds are the go-to for travelers who want something compact, affordable, and ready to roll in just a few months. They’re easy to drive, easy to maintain, and a great entry point into life on the road.
Pros
More affordable — Vans cost significantly less than an expedition truck to build and maintain.
Easier storage — Park it at home or in a standard garage. No special space required.
Quick build times — Most van conversions take just a few months from start to finish.
Proven layouts — Tried-and-true floor plans make it easier to design a layout that just works.
Easy maintenance — Since vans are usually built on Ford or Mercedes platforms, you can find service just about anywhere.
Cons
Limited access — You’ll need to stick to paved roads, campgrounds, or established dirt trails.
Less gear space — Smaller vehicles mean you’ll have to pick and choose what equipment comes along.
Tighter quarters — Space is limited, especially if you’re traveling with pets or multiple people.
Common choice — You’ll see a lot of vans out there. If you’re after something unique, this may not scratch that itch.
So... Which One’s Right for You?
It really comes down to your travel goals.
If you dream about exploring remote corners of the map, living fully off-grid, and building something that’s 100% you, an expedition truck might be your calling.
If you’re after something practical, easy to maintain, and road-trip-ready without the long wait, a van build could be the perfect fit.
We Can Help You Get There
No matter what you choose (van or expedition truck) our team at ACME Overland is here to help you start your journey.
If you’re leaning toward an expedition truck, we can help with sourcing the perfect chassis, handling imports, and getting your rig prepped before it ever reaches our shop. From first conversation to final keys, we’ll make sure you’re ready to explore with confidence.
Ready to get started?
Let’s talk about your build.