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BYLINE ARCHIVE

Oliver Hartwell

Browse articles published under this byline. Our library includes research-based and AI-assisted material; this archive does not establish professional qualifications or first-hand product testing. Read our editorial policy for how to interpret the guides.

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13 published guides

Food & Cookery

12V Compressor Fridges UK

A 12V compressor fridge is the single biggest quality-of-life upgrade you can make to a campervan. With one, you have cold beer, fresh milk

6 min read

Wild Camping

Cairngorms Winter Parking

The Cairngorms National Park is the UK's best destination for winter van life — if you're prepared for it.

6 min read

Budget Builds

Campsite vs Wild Camping Costs

The biggest lever on your van life budget is where you sleep. Campsites in the UK average £20-35 per night.

6 min read

Van Builds

Carver Cascade Windows Review

Carver Cascade windows are one of the most popular aftermarket window options for UK campervan conversions.

4 min read

Van Builds

Nissan NV400 Guide

The Nissan NV400 is the badge-engineered version of the Renault Master and Vauxhall Movano. Built on the same platform at the same factory in Batilly

4 min read

Practical Tips

Safe Boxes (Bolted to Chassis)

A safe bolted to your van's chassis is the best place for your passport, vehicle documents, backup credit card, and emergency cash.

6 min read

Budget Builds

Selling a Van for Profit

Van life doesn't have to cost money. If you buy a van, convert it, live in it for 6-12 months, and sell it, you can come out ahead — sometimes

6 min read

Van Builds

UK Standard Mattress Sizes

Getting the mattress size right is one of the most important decisions in a van conversion. A standard mattress is cheaper and easier to replace

5 min read

Van Builds

V5C Logbook Updates

Your van's V5C logbook (also called the registration document) contains all the official details about your vehicle.

5 min read

Solar & Power

Victron SmartSolar Review

Victron Energy's SmartSolar MPPT charge controllers are the most popular solar charge controllers in UK van conversions.

7 min read

Showing 1–13 of 13 guides