Compact 4WD Camper: The Ultimate Tiny Home on Wheels by Mitsubishi Fuso

Owner lives in custom-built camper truck with kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom setup.

“Van life” remains a highly sought-after lifestyle, appealing to both budget-conscious young travelers and Instagram influencers who showcase the carefree essence of this way of living in their posts. However, this particular Mitsubishi vehicle takes the concept of van life to a whole new level, surpassing the typical Sprinter van adorned with simple string lights.

Heather and Dana, the owners of this modified truck that was previously used for fighting wildland fires, have transformed it into their own personalized camper. For the past six months, the couple has been using this truck as their full-time residence. In a detailed video, they provide a tour of their unique living quarters.

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The vehicle in question is a 2007 Mitsubishi Fuso FG140, highly favored by experienced adventurers for its robust 4.9-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and four-wheel drive system. The pair acquired this specific model with a mere 50,000 miles on it and proceeded to install a raised suspension to accommodate 37-inch tires. Additionally, they added an aftermarket front bumper equipped with a winch and built-in trail lights.

Alterations to the article are primarily subtle, as the only notable adjustments in the Mitsubishi’s interior are a set of heated chairs and an upgraded Apple CarPlay system. Nevertheless, the true standout feature of this truck is its personalized composite camper shell. Mounted on a subframe with spring assistance, it effectively reduces vibrations when driving over rough dirt roads.

The interior of the 15-by-8 foot container features a queen-size bed, a compact kitchen equipped with an induction cooktop, sink, refrigerator, and microwave (according to Heather, these appliances are frequently used), and a bathroom complete with a shower and a composting toilet. To accommodate guests, the dining space can be transformed into a temporary bedroom by stowing away the table. The inclusion of a conventional air conditioning unit, Starlink internet, and a hot water heater make the Mitsubishi container suitable as a comfortable home for a couple and their furry companion.

The rooftop solar panels generate 1,200 watts of energy to recharge the batteries with a capacity of 600 amp-hours, ensuring the truck remains powered and cooled. The remaining portion of the video showcases additional concealed elements within the camper shell. This includes a clever lockable storage compartment that slides out and is designed to transport the couple’s mountain bikes when they arrive at the trailhead.

During a previous chapter of my life, I spent approximately six months living in a van. Although it was an enjoyable experience, it was also quite challenging. The lack of basic necessities such as water, a shower, a toilet, and internet access made it difficult to establish a sense of home. It became clear that I required a transition from Van Life to Truck Life for a more comfortable lifestyle.