You’ve seen them on YouTube. You’ve been inspired by them on Pinterest. You’ve caught a glimpse of their interiors on Instagram.
We’re talking about campervan designs, of course.
While the allure of van life is not for everyone, there are many people who desire to escape in a campervan and disconnect. Maybe you desire to do the same.
If so, you may have looked at campervan designs online and thought to yourself, “I can do this.”
A DIY campervan isn’t out of reach – if you know how to do it. Here’s how to get started.
Finding a Campervan Layout
First, you need a van. If you don’t already have an existing van, take some time to do the research to find the right one for you.
You could also repurpose an existing campervan, or consider buying a campervan and remodeling it for your needs. There are a lot of different designs and layouts available, so browse online for some ideas to see what you prefer.
Still looking for design and layout ideas? You can view here for more examples of what Airstream, Coachmen, and other manufacturers are doing with Class B campervan designs.
Campervan Design Options
What are your options when it comes to campervans?
Your 4 main options are:
- You can buy a campervan conversion kit and DIY your van into a campervan
- You can fully outsource your entire project to a custom van conversion company
- You can buy an existing vehicle and do a campervan makeover
- You can go fully DIY and convert a van into a campervan
Let’s break each of these options down further, starting with conversion kits and outsourcing.
Conversion Kits and Outsourcing
A conversion kit is exactly what it sounds like. You purchase an existing conversion kit for your particular van. When deployed, these conversion kits quickly turn your van into a campervan.
These conversion kits are removable and are often quick to install. If you aren’t very handy and don’t mind spending a few thousand, a conversion kit may be the way to go.
What’s included in a conversion kit? Usually a sleeping area and storage space. Sometimes a mattress is included as well.
Optional features may include additional drawers or cut-out spaces for sinks, stoves, or mini-fridges. They may also include a fold-out or slide-away table, cabinets, or a gear rack.
Generally speaking, these kits are designed to convert your van into a comfortable sleeping space, as well as add various storage options to your van. The rest is up to you.
You could outsource your van conversion to a custom van conversion company. This can be an expensive option, but they will do all of the work for you. If you have the money and aren’t a very handy person, consider this option.
Campervan Makeovers
Now for the other two options: buying an existing campervan and doing a makeover, and going the full DIY campervan route.
The first option is self-explanatory. You may already have a campervan (or your sights set on one) and want to do a partial or full makeover.
This refresh could be purely aesthetic, purely functional, or more likely, both. You may want to decorate your campervan with custom artwork or photos from your travel. Wallpaper could add a dash of color or a gorgeous pattern to your van’s interior.
A neglected space in many campervans is the cab. However, you can always dress it up by hanging some curtains or using accent pillows.
Perhaps you want to give yourself a little extra storage. In that case, interior netting can be installed. It’s lightweight and versatile, letting you store clothes, food, or other small items.
Full DIY Conversion
The last option is not for the faint of heart: a full conversion. This involves purchasing a van and converting it into a campervan. It’s a labor-intensive process, but many find it to be rewarding.
The actual cost, work, and hours involve varies. Most likely, you will at least want a sleeping area, which means one bed.
However, many campervan conversions also include:
- Sink
- Toilet
- Kitchenette
- Electric
- Additional storage space
- Other items such as privacy curtains and extra lighting
Let’s start with the bed. Do you want a convertible bed and bench system or a fixed bed?
A fixed bed is the easier solution to build, requiring only some plywood and 2x4s. Plus you can utilize space underneath your bed platform for storage space.
Regardless of the option you choose, you need to build a sleeping platform. For many van-goers, anything else is a perk.
You can get creative with your storage space, adding recessed storage or hanging storage options. As previously mentioned, netting can also be an option.
A hanging table or Murphy table allows you to have a place to eat, but can also be easily stored away. Pots, pans, and utensils can be hung to save space.
While many camper vans have a one-wall kitchen layout, you could also opt for a galley kitchen. Or you could have an L-shaped kitchen directly behind the cab.
Many campervan users don’t have a toilet, instead preferring to use public toilets. Even in a larger van, a campervan toilet will take up precious space.
However, there are foldable toilet options. Many of these use wag bags, which neutralize any odors and are biodegradable.
Choosing to go the full DIY route means you will have tons of layout and customization options, but it’s up to you to make it happen.
Find the Campervan Designs That Fit Your Lifestyle
There’s a lot that goes into campervan designs. Your needs, budget, time, and handiness will all factor into what campervan design is best for your travel needs. The good news is that once your campervan is ready, you have the opportunity for years of road trips, camping, and other adventures for years to come.
If you liked this article, you’re likely to enjoy other articles on our site, especially in our Travel section.
