How This Couple Built the Smartest Camper Van of 2025

Charlie Ding and Rosie Wells have turned a simple dream into something far bigger than a van. Their journey began with a shared idea: to build a place that felt like home, no matter how far they traveled. Today, that idea has earned them the title of Van Conversion of the Year Award winners for 2025, along with a cash prize of £10,000. What makes their story special is not just the engineering or the craftsmanship, but the heart behind every decision they made.

Their inspiration came during a trip to Vietnam, where they realized how much they missed their dog, Little Rosie. When they returned home, they committed to designing and creating a camper that allowed all three of them to explore the world together. Over 18 months of evenings and weekends, they transformed a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter into a fully functioning home that feels as warm as it looks.

The couple relied heavily on parts and accessories purchased through eBay, from upgraded mirrors and new windows to fresh lighting and a clever reversing camera integrated into the brake light. Slowly, the empty van became something personal and purposeful. They installed a full kitchen for real meals on the road, a retractable bed that tucks neatly into the ceiling, and a surprising wardrobe that opens into a modern-style shower.

Those thoughtful touches helped them stand out among the top category winners, earning them a spot as finalists before ultimately winning the overall award. Head judge George Clarke praised their creativity and meticulous attention to detail, calling their finished van a perfect balance of ingenuity and comfort.

Now travelling through Europe on a nine-month sabbatical, Charlie, Rosie, and Little Rosie have already visited 13 countries including France, Slovenia, and Romania. It is more than a van for them. It is a small space built with intention, love, and the dream of seeing the world without leaving family behind.