I just got a job where I will be working all over the northeast, from New Jersey up to Maine. I'll be making a whole lot of money, but I don't get a per diem or travel reimbursement so I'm thinking about getting a van to live in, likely a sprinter 170. I will have inventory/tools that I need to carry. I have boxes that are 2'x1.1'x1' and weigh 43 lbs. Going to need to have at most about 40 of these boxes in the back. I figure maybe 5 feet from the rear of the van dedicated to put the boxes and tools, with a total weight at most of 1100 lbs. I was planning on going to gyms/rest stops for showers so I don't need any plumbing. I want to have my gaming setup, pc/monitor/desk in the van and relatively comfortable bed (I'm 5'10 so idk exactly what size). I don't want a cot. I need to store my clothing and if it's possible, a small fridge and some basic cookware like a microwave or hot plate would help me save money from not having to eat out all the time. And if possible, I know even up as far north as Boston and New Hampshire it gets over 100 degrees in the summer so I need some way to keep the van cool.
I don't even know where to start when it comes to making a build like this, I have a few questions.
Firstly, do I need a sprinter 170 or 170 extended? 2500 or 3500? Any recommended models besides a sprinter? There's plenty around me under 100k miles between 2015 and 2019 under 20k. I have a max 10k budget for the build.
I need advice regarding the power setup. I'm thinking solar panels on the roof, but idk much. Are there any recommended kits for this?
AC Setup? I any recommendations regarding this? Is it even possible to fit this with everything I'm trying to fit?
As for general van life, if anyone has tips and advice that would be much appreciated. I don't know what I don't know.
I have 3 weeks before I start this job to buy a van and build it. Thanks in advance for any advice about this.