Dave Walsh, a 39-year-old USMC veteran turned custom van builder, has seen his business soar amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Based in Denver, Colorado, Walsh founded Vanlife Customs in 2016, offering bespoke camper vans tailored to the growing trend of van travel. In a conversation with freelance writer Jenny Powers, Walsh reflects on the challenges and successes of his thriving enterprise.
Navigating Challenges Amid a Pandemic
Like many entrepreneurs, Walsh faced unprecedented challenges when the pandemic struck in March 2020. With Colorado enforcing a mandatory lockdown, Vanlife Customs temporarily closed its doors. However, after a four-week hiatus, Walsh and his team adapted to the new normal, implementing split schedules to comply with social distancing regulations.
Rising Demand in Van Travel
Despite the initial setback, Walsh noticed a surge in interest for custom vans as people sought alternative travel options. The concept of social distancing in a van appealed to many, prompting an influx of inquiries and orders for prebuilt and custom vans. The pandemic not only accelerated the popularity of van travel but also fueled a 10% increase in custom work for Vanlife Customs.
From Marine to Entrepreneur
Walsh’s journey from Marine Corps service to van builder exemplifies resilience and adaptability. Following his military service, Walsh ventured into the tech industry before pursuing his passion for the outdoors. His extensive background, coupled with a year-long stint on the Pacific Crest Trail, laid the foundation for Vanlife Customs, transforming backyard dreams into a flourishing business.
Crafting Unique Van Experiences
At Vanlife Customs, each camper van is a testament to craftsmanship and individuality. From families to digital nomads, clients seek Walsh’s expertise to bring their van-life aspirations to fruition. With a meticulous attention to detail, Walsh and his team transform Mercedes Sprinters, Ford Transits, and Ram Promasters into personalized sanctuaries on wheels.
Meeting Diverse Client Needs
Understanding the diverse needs of his clients, Walsh embraces unique customization requests while prioritizing safety and practicality. From fly fishing rod racks to exterior pull-up bars, Vanlife Customs caters to a spectrum of lifestyle preferences. However, certain requests, such as installing showers, are declined to mitigate space constraints and humidity concerns.
Enhancing Mobile Work Environments
As remote work becomes increasingly prevalent, Vanlife Customs integrates functional amenities like stand-up desks and ergonomic seating into its designs. Walsh acknowledges the misconception that van living equates to a perpetual vacation, emphasizing the need for practical work solutions amidst nomadic lifestyles.
Celebrating Milestones and Expansion
With demand on the rise, Vanlife Customs anticipates significant growth, including a relocation to a larger facility and the completion of its 100th camper van by the end of 2021. Despite his professional success, Walsh humorously admits to not owning a van himself, preferring to sell each one after a brief vacation—a testament to his dedication to his craft.
Looking Ahead
As inquiries flood his inbox, Walsh remains committed to his vision while acknowledging the potential for future adventures in van ownership. With a thriving business and a growing team, Walsh’s journey from Marine Corps veteran to custom van pioneer continues to inspire both clients and enthusiasts alike.
