Renting a Sprinter Van
They’re just not what they’re made out to be
The nobby lugs on all-terrain tires are as seducing and misleading as that “just one more” shot of tequila. These tires do not change the fact that this is a van. A steep railroad crossing could beach these whales, let alone the rocky uneven terrain of the desert backcountry. The length between tires is called a vehicle’s wheelbase and sprinter vans have one of the biggest of 4 wheeled vehicles. That means it can get hung up on its belly easily and tight turns are out of the question. If a dirt road is washed out 10 miles from your last turn you are looking at driving in reverse for 10 miles. They also have high centers of gravity, so sharp corners and uneven terrain have a much better chance of tipping one over. They just aren’t very fit for what a lot of people think they are.
Okay, forget the van, what about a Jeep?
Yes, a Jeep Wrangler is far more suited for off-road adventuring, but renting one doesn’t change the fact that you probably don’t have the experience or expertise of a seasoned professional. Does the rental insurance cover side panel damage from an 18” boulder while you were off-camber on 3 wheels? Where will you sleep? Either you have to drive back to a hotel after each day or you could rent a tent and sleep on the ground…