This article is about living in a van, or maybe better titled, ‘Economical Living in an Econoline’.
Some of you older Saturday Night Live (SNL) fans may remember Chris Farley in his skit as Matt Foley – Motivational Speaker, talking about living in a van down by the river. Although funny, it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re poor and homeless. In fact, living in a van could be a very enriching experience.
For years, companies have converted the Ford Econoline in to campers. For the adventurer, the Sportsmobile is the best option.
The Sportsmobile has been converting Ford vans in to campers since 1962. While photos of the 4×4 versions are the ones most commonly found online, Sportsmobile also built and sold 2WD versions.
The Sportsmobile came with either a fixed top:
or a Penthouse top:
The fixed top has the benefit of extra overhead cabinet storage:
The downside is the taller profile, and the higher center of gravity it creates.
Most owners choose to go with the ‘Penthouse’ version. The Penthouse version offers a lower profile, making it more capable of getting in and out of remote areas.
The Penthouse top raises up to give you plenty of headroom to walk around, and provides a bunk space for sleeping. Most Sportsmobiles can sleep (4) people, when equipped with the Penthouse bunk. The Penthouse is similar to a tent, and you can unzip the inside window covers to allow air to flow through the screens.
The inside will offer a refrigerator and sink. Depending on the year, it will also offer a propane stove top, or microwave oven. There should be a portable toilet, and some models may even have a propane heater. All should have a 110 AC point to plug the van in to a power outlet (with an extension cord) while camping.
This floor model is one of the most popular choices. The rear couch converts in to a full size bed.
The front passenger seat swivels around to create more seating in the living space.
Penthouse bunk:
Don’t want to fork over a bunch of cash for a new, or newer Sportsmobile? The as mention above, the good part is that Sportsmobile has been converting Ford vans since 1962. We previously owned a 1982 Ford E150 2WD Sportsmobile. We drove from Ohio to Michigan to buy it, but got it for a great price. We eventually sold it to a young couple that cam to Ohio from Indiana to buy it.
It was camping in this Sportsmobile that motivated us to want to live on the road and travel. It’s amazing how nice the interior was, and since it was a 1982, it didn’t have an engine computer, or a bunch of electronics to go bad. A very reliable vehicle. The best part was how quickly we could set up camp, or leave camp and hit the road.
About The Author
Growing up, my father always believed that every family needed a truck—there’s just something about having a vehicle capable of hauling anything at a moment’s notice. That philosophy stuck with me, and it’s been the foundation of my lifelong passion for Ford trucks.
While I’m best known for my work with Ford Rangers, I’ve owned a wide variety of Ford trucks over the years—including F-150s, F-250s, F-350s, and even larger rigs like the Ford Excursion, Ford Expedition, and a 1982 Ford Econoline Sportsmobile camper van. I’ve used these vehicles for everything from family transportation to towing car trailers and campers, and each one has fueled my love for Ford’s versatility and durability.
I especially enjoy the styling of 1970s and 1980s Ford trucks—the bold designs, rugged presence, and classic charm are timeless. Sharing my passion for Ford trucks, vans, and SUVs with other enthusiasts online brings me a great deal of joy, and it’s why I created Blue Oval Trucks.
This website is dedicated to helping Ford truck enthusiasts explore, learn about, and celebrate these incredible vehicles. While I share my expertise and experiences here, Blue Oval Trucks is an independent enthusiast site and is not affiliated with Ford Motor Company.
