The adventure van market has been heating up, and Outside Van’s latest offering — the Parks van — enters the scene with high expectations and an even higher price tag. Known for their custom adventure builds, Outside Van promises a refined off-grid experience in the Parks. But does it deliver on substance, or is it just another luxury Sprinter with bells and whistles?
Build & Layout: Flexible, But Familiar
The Parks model offers a relatively modular layout with its FlipOut bed system and Lagun table, which allows the sleeping area to double as a dinette. It's functional and reasonably comfortable, though not groundbreaking — similar setups are seen across many van builders today.
The premium feel is real: memory foam cushions, magnetic overhead storage, and quality cabinetry are well done. But when you dig deeper, the lack of true innovation in layout or space-saving features may leave seasoned van lifers wondering why this layout commands such a high premium. There’s nothing particularly novel here — the Parks borrows heavily from existing Class B floor plans without adding a distinct twist. It plays it safe.
The Outback Washroom: Innovative, But Impractical?
One standout feature is the enclosed Outback Washroom, a dedicated wet bath with a high ceiling, built-in storage tray, and a surprisingly full-featured vanity.
But here's the catch: it eats up a significant chunk of interior space. While it's a luxury in theory, those who spend long periods off-grid might find the space could be better used for gear storage or an expanded kitchen. The inclusion of a full wet bath in a van this size borders on overkill — it’s attractive, but for serious overlanders or extended trips, it’s a tradeoff with limited return.
Off-Grid Capability: Good, Not Best-in-Class
The electrical system is solid: 310Ah lithium battery bank, 3000W inverter, solar, and alternator charging. However, it doesn’t lead the pack — other premium builders like Storyteller Overland or Airstream’s eStream prototype are pushing higher battery capacities and more integrated power management systems.
Also, the van includes a rooftop AC unit and hydronic heating, which are excellent — but both are power-hungry and may strain the battery without substantial solar expansion. For the price point, we expected more robust or expandable power options. The solar panel (just 140W stock) is underwhelming unless you opt for additional panels — which costs more, of course.
Tech & Control: Fancy, but Maybe too Fancy
The Garmin Smart Command Center offers a central touchscreen interface and mobile app integration. It’s modern, sleek, and user-friendly — a win for digital nomads.
However, Garmin's proprietary system means some components are harder to upgrade or replace if something fails down the road. This could become a pain point for long-term owners or those venturing far from service centers. It’s a high-tech solution, but with a potential downside: too many proprietary parts in a vehicle meant for remote travel can be a liability.
Value: Is It Worth the Cost?
Let’s address the elephant in the van: price. The Parks is expected to run well into the $250,000+ range, depending on configuration. That’s a massive investment, especially when competitors offer similar layouts and capabilities for significantly less.
Yes, Outside Van is known for craftsmanship, and yes, this van is beautifully finished — but for many, that alone won’t justify the sticker shock. This van caters more to luxury buyers than hardcore adventurers. If you need durability and function over aesthetic polish, you might be better served elsewhere — or by a custom build for half the cost.
A Well-Built Van That Plays It Safe
Outside Van’s Parks is undeniably a high-quality, well-equipped adventure vehicle. But it plays it safe in too many areas — layout, power, and innovation — while asking for a top-tier price. It will appeal to a specific buyer: someone who values premium materials, recognizable branding, and occasional trips more than rugged, full-time capability.
- Pros: High-quality build, stylish finish, great wet bath for short trips, solid climate control.
- Cons: Pricey, limited solar, conservative layout, and space sacrifices for aesthetic over function.
If you're a weekend warrior with cash to spare, it's worth considering. But if you're planning serious off-grid travel, you may want to explore more customizable — and cost-effective — alternatives.
