When you snowboard, who needs a bathroom and kitchen?
In our daily browsing of the #vanlife scene, we come across many motorhomes. We often see nondescript vans and trucks which appear to be business-like from the outside but are actually filled with all the comforts of home in an incredibly limited space. It’s actually the opposite this time.
This 1953 GMC heavy-duty truck is actually a firetruck. It has been used a lot since then, with a tiny house on the back and a porch. Austin Smith, a professional snowboarder, bought it to make a home away from home that he could park anywhere and go snowboarding. It’s not necessary to stay in a hotel when you can sleep in a blanket on the back of your firetruck. That’s what he did all winter.
While we often wax poetic about the creature comforts of custom campers, this build seems rather basic. It’s not bad, but it’s not great. There are two beds, counter space, cabinets and cabinets to prepare and store meals, as well as a canister to store water. The stove is small and wood-burning, so it provides warmth, as well as heats up the water. There’s also a porch that looks very cozy. will not find a kitchen, dining area, complicated electrical systems or bathroom. You know what? That’s okay. Sometimes what you leave behind to go on adventures off-road is more important than what your take.
This truck can take you on an adventure. The truck is equipped with a modern powertrain that includes a four-wheel drive and a Cummins Diesel for power. It can also handle deep snow thanks to its ability to use deep snow. It is a bit heavy, though we don’t know how much. However, at one point in this video, the old rig needs assistance getting out of a parking spot.
It’s still vintage and unique. The rustic exterior offers a large living area that is low on amenities but high on charm. This is not the rig to use if you’re going on a long snowboarding trip. Although a better heating system might be an improvement, it is still a great rig.