How to Convert a Panel Van into a Camper

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Camping has seen a resurgence in popularity as a budget-friendly vacation alternative, and with it there's been a jump in sales of campers and supplies. But buying a new RV is not in everyone's budget. However, you can convert a panel van into a mini-camper and save thousands of dollars. Because a panel van is larger and has fewer windows than a passenger van, it makes an ideal framework for a functional camper.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

2 pieces of wood paneling Household insulation 1 2 by 2 plank 2 pieces of 1/2-inch plywood 5/8-inch wood screws Bolts Eye bolts Silicone sealer Polyurethane sealer Plastic storage cubes with drawers Foam mattress Bungee cords Plastic dish pan with lip Table saw Electric drill Screwdriver Socket wrench
2 pieces of wood paneling
Household insulation
1 2 by 2 plank
2 pieces of 1/2-inch plywood
5/8-inch wood screws
Bolts
Eye bolts
Silicone sealer
Polyurethane sealer
Plastic storage cubes with drawers
Foam mattress
Bungee cords
Plastic dish pan with lip
Table saw
Electric drill
Screwdriver
Socket wrench

Step 1

Remove seats, shelves and other objects from the back of the van with a socket wrench and screwdriver. One advantage of using a panel van is that the back is usually striped down to basics and this makes the demolition process easier. Thoroughly clean the interior. Sweep up all dust and dispose of debris.

Step 2

Install the insulation on the walls and ceiling and cover with paneling cut to fit. Most panel vans won't have any covering on the walls or ceiling, but if yours does, remove it before installing the insulation and paneling.

Step 3

Make the legs for the bed from six 2 by 2s cut to equal lengths. They should be tall enough for the storage cubes to fit underneath. Cut the plywood to the size of the bed that fits your space and will be comfortable and practical.

Step 4

Attach the legs to the bottom of the plywood at each corner and at the outside center for support. Brace the legs with square pieces of 2 by 2 screwed into the sides of the legs where they connect to the plywood.

Step 5

Screw four eye bolts into the two end legs near the top and middle. The bungee cords will attach to hold the storage cubes after you assemble the bed. Secure the bed to the van with bolts and use the sealer to cover any holes. Place the mattress on the bed.

Step 6

Determine the height of the kitchen counter and cut six legs from the 2 by 2s. Cut the countertop from the plywood. Determine the size using measurements of the van's interior. Leave enough space to work comfortably and for an ample aisle in the center. Measure the dishpan under the lip, and cut a hole in the plywood so the lip will rest on top of the counter.

Step 7

Sand the edge of the counter to round it slightly and seal with polyurethane. Let dry completely. Attach the legs to the counter with screws and attach the unit to the van with bolts. Screw in the eye bolts as you did for the bed and attach the bungee cords.

Article Written By Catherine Rayburn-Trobaug

Catherine Rayburn-Trobaugh has been a writer and college writing professor since 1992. She has written for international companies, published numerous feature articles in the "Wilmington News-Journal," and won writing contests for her poetry and fiction. Rayburn-Trobaugh earned a Master of Arts in English from Wright State University.

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