When you’re deciding between buying property in one location or having the freedom to go anywhere, sometimes the answer is simple: why not both?
For Kyle Marlett and his partner Francis, their 2024 Geotrek Albatross has become exactly that. A mobile basecamp that takes them from Tahoe slopes to California coastlines, with their two dogs along for every adventure.
The Albatross Layout: Built for Two (Plus Dogs)
Kyle and Francis chose the Albatross layout for its north-south sleeping arrangement, which gives them plenty of room even when both dogs join them in bed. The spacious design means everyone sleeps comfortably – both humans and dogs – whether they’re parked at a trailhead or a beach access point.
“It’s perfect for two people,” Kyle explains. The layout maximizes space without feeling cramped, and practical touches like the air conditioner positioned right above the bed make California’s hot summer nights manageable with the touch of a button.
Customized for the Active Life
The couple added their own touches to make the van work for their lifestyle. They opted for the center cubby for extra storage and personalized the space with practical additions like a fruit basket and towel ponchos draped over the seats.
“If we ever go to the coast or go swimming in Lake Tahoe, we always have somewhere to dry off,” Kyle notes. It’s the kind of small detail that makes a big difference when you’re moving between surf sessions and mountain lakes.
The Epiphany: Freedom Over Fixed Location
Originally, Kyle and Francis considered buying a place in Tahoe. Then it hit them: why be tied to one spot when they could have a condo on wheels?
“It was just like an epiphany,” Kyle recalls. “Why not get a little condo on wheels and we can go anywhere we want, we can go see friends all over the country. That was the selling point. It’s just limitless. We can go wherever we want and not be stuck in one spot.”
That realization changed everything. Instead of property taxes and a fixed location, they got freedom and flexibility.
Gear Storage That Actually Works
The garage space was a key factor in their decision. With room for snowboards, skis, surfboards, and paddleboards, the van handles their multi-sport lifestyle without compromise.
Even with the 24-gallon water tank and large battery system taking up space, there’s still plenty of room for gear and their dog Penny to ride comfortably.
Thoughtful Upgrades for Real Use
Kyle and Francis added running boards to help with entry, especially important since the all-wheel-drive system adds extra height to the vehicle. The boards make it easier for both the dogs and humans to get in and out.
They also installed a ladder on the side for easy roof access. “We can get up, clean our solar panels, make sure our batteries are always getting topped off when there’s good sun,” Kyle explains. It’s the kind of practical thinking that comes from actually using a van for regular adventures.
From Ski Trips to Surf Sessions
Whether they’re chasing powder at Tahoe or waves on the coast, the Albatross layout gives Kyle and Francis the flexibility to follow their interests wherever they lead – and Penny and her packmate are always ready for the next adventure.
The van isn’t just transportation. It’s their ticket to a lifestyle that doesn’t require choosing between different passions or locations.
Built for Weekend Warriors
Kyle and Francis’s story represents a growing movement of people who want adventure without giving up their day jobs or home base.
Weekend warriors who need a vehicle that can handle multiple sports, multiple seasons, and multiple dogs, all while providing a comfortable place to recharge between activities.
Whether you’re eyeing property in the mountains or just want the freedom to explore on your own terms, Geotrek Vans offer a compelling alternative. Premium craftsmanship, flexible layouts, and dog-friendly design mean you and your four-legged companions can chase adventures together without being tied to one location.
