How to Convert a Panel Van into a Camper

Whether you want to create a home away from home or just want a comfortable place to sleep on your outdoor adventure, converting a panel van into a camper requires much thought and planning. Panel vans work well for conversions since they feature fewer windows and more space than passenger vans. But remember -- either you or someone you know or pay must tear out the old fixtures and install your new van appliances and furniture. Whether you handle the work or rely on someone else, careful planning means the process goes far more smoothly when you start the actual conversion.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

Sketch pad Pencil Tape measure
Sketch pad
Pencil
Tape measure

Step 1

Select the panel van that best suits your needs. If you need lots of space, take a look at commercial panel vans --- they make a great choice with their roomy interiors. Plus, they usually contain minimal fixtures you'll need to remove. Make sure the roof height suits your needs --- if you want to stand up in the van, look for high-roof vans. Also, make sure the van offers enough engine power and front- or four-wheel drive to get you where you want to go.

Step 2

Create a floor plan of the inside of your van to show all of the features you want to include such as appliances, beds, seating, cupboards, toilets, showers, sinks, and tables. Sketch your ideas on paper, take measurements to make sure the items fit, and be prepared to modify your ideas as you go along.

Step 3

Review your sketches and ideas to determine if your plan includes enough storage areas. You must access your food, clothing and other supplies easily and quickly. Plan for enough cupboards and storage space to easily access the items you need on a daily basis vs. items you need less frequently. Also include enough room in your plans for any outdoor sports gear you bring along.

Step 4

Decide what appliances you want to install. Consider adding a refrigerator, stove, sink, toilet, etc. Plan for energy sources to run these items such as propane tanks, water tanks, electricity or a backup battery.

Step 5

Start looking for the appliances you plan to include so you know where and how these items fit into the space you plan to convert. Measure each one to make sure it fits, and if necessary, make changes to your drawings as you secure each item.

Tips & Warnings

Look for used appliances, furniture and cupboards, etc., in salvage yards, eBay.com, local classifieds, craigslist.com, or at camper van specialty stores both online and offline.

Converting a van so it contains all the conveniences of home requires a large variety of tools as well as skills and knowledge dealing with carpentry, appliance installation, electrical and gas installation and more. Get professional advice before proceeding if you do not have all of these skill sets yourself.

Resources

Article Written By Nancy Wagner

Nancy Wagner is a marketing strategist and speaker who started writing in 1998. She writes business plans for startups and established companies and teaches marketing and promotional tactics at local workshops. Wagner's business and marketing articles have appeared in "Home Business Journal," "Nation’s Business," "Emerging Business" and "The Mortgage Press," among others. She holds a B.S. from Eastern Illinois University.

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