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Planning Your First Campervan Conversion

Updated: Dec 6, 2022

If you're anything like me, the thought of hitting the open road in a campervan conversion is an exciting one. There's something about the freedom of being able to go wherever you want, whenever you want that just draws people in. But if you've never done it before, planning your first campervan conversion can seem a little daunting. That's why I'm here to help!

campervan conversion

A campervan conversion can be a scary task, but with careful planning and attention to detail, it can be a fun and rewarding experience. The first thing you need to do is decide what kind of campervan you want to convert.

There are many different ways to go about this, so it's important to do your research and figure out what will work best for you.

Once you've decided on a general plan, the next step is to start gathering materials. This can be one of the most fun parts of the process, as it's a chance to really get creative. There are many different ways to approach this, so again, it's important to do your research and figure out what will work best for you.


The Next Step Is To Begin The Conversion Process Itself.

This is where all of your planning will come together and you'll finally get to see your vision become a reality. It's important to take your time during this step and make sure that everything is done correctly, as there is no room for error when it comes to safety.



How To Choose The Perfect Base Vehicle For Your Needs

When it comes to choosing the perfect van for your needs, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. First, you should decide what size van you need.

If you’re only planning on going on short trips and don’t want to drive anything too big a VW Transporter could work. However, if you're planning on using it for long-distance trips, perhaps you could look at the larger models. For example Sprinters, Crafters or Transits.

There are two main types of vans when it comes to campervan conversions: self-contained and non-self-contained. A self-contained van has all the things necessary for living on the road, including a kitchen, toilet, and sleeping area. A non-self-contained van requires you to find camping spots that have toilets and showers available.


Obviously, price is going to be a major factor when choosing a van for your campervan conversion. Keep in mind that the cost of converting a van can vary greatly from £15,000 to £65,000. It's important to choose a van that is in good condition, both mechanically and structurally. Otherwise, you may end up spending more money fixing it up than if you had just bought one that was already converted. A good way to check this is to pay for an AA vehicle report before you buy the van. Although costly it can give you some peace of mind.

If you’ve never used a campervan before, we suggest hiring a van before you start planning. This is a fairly cheap way of testing out different camper types before you fully commit to purchasing one.


The Size Of Your Van Will Determine How Much Space You Have For Living And Storage.

If you're looking for a lot of extra space, a larger van may be a good option. However, keep in mind that they can be more difficult to maneuver and park in smaller spaces.

Once you've considered all these factors, it's time to start shopping around for vans! There are lots of different places where you can find them online (eBay, Autotrader, etc.), or you can check with local dealerships or rental companies. Just make sure to do your research before buying so you know what you're getting yourself into.


How To Design And Plan Your Conversion Now That You've Chosen A Van.

it's time to start planning out your conversion layout! This involves deciding how you want to use the space inside the vehicle and what amenities you'll need/want. Here are some things to keep in mind:


● Sleeping space

● Kitchen area

● Pop top roof

● How many seat belts do you need

● Do you need ISOFIX

● Windows

● Electrical system

● Gas system

● LPG tanks

● Water tanks

● Furniture

● What rock and roll bed you will use

● Carpeting and insulation


When it comes to planning a campervan conversion, the sky's the limit. There are endless possibilities when it comes to design and layout. The best place to start is by deciding what your priorities are. Are you looking for a comfortable bed? A fully equipped kitchen? A spacious living area?

One of the most important things when planning your layout is figuring out how much sleeping space you'll need. If there's only room for one person then obviously you'll need a bed that converts from the seating area during the day. If there's room for more people then either multiple beds or bunks can be installed. Just make sure there's enough headroom clearance so everyone can comfortably stand up inside.


Once you have a good idea of your needs, you can start to brainstorm ideas and narrow down your options. If you're not sure where to begin, there are plenty of resources available online and in books. And don't forget to ask friends and family for their input! Pinterest can also be a great source of inspiration.


What To Include In Your Campervan Conversion.

Converting a van into a campervan can be a fun, rewarding project that doesn't have to be expensive. By planning ahead and including the necessary features, you can create a comfortable and functional home on wheels that will allow you to explore the world. Here are some tips on what to include in your conversion.


Insulation

One of the most important things to include in your campervan conversion is insulation. This will help to keep your van warm in the winter and cool in the summer, making it more comfortable to use year-round. There are a variety of insulation materials available, so be sure to choose one that will best suit your needs.


Flooring

Another important thing to consider is what type of flooring you would like in your campervan. There are a few different options available, including carpet, vinyl and wood. Carpet is a good option if you want a cozy feel, but it can be difficult to clean and is not as durable as other options. Vinyl and wood are both easy to clean and very durable, making them great options for those who want a low-maintenance flooring solution.


Storage

When converting your campervan, be sure to include plenty of storage space. This can be accomplished by installing cabinets and pull out drawers. Having ample storage space will help to keep your van organised and tidy, making it more enjoyable to live in.


Electrics & Lighting

Another important thing to consider is lighting. You will need both overhead lighting and task lighting in your van, so be sure to include both in your conversion. LED lights are a good option as they are energy-efficient and long-lasting.

To do this you will need to include a leisure battery system. You will need to decide whether you want to use a traditional leisure battery system or use the new lithium batteries. These are more expensive but are much better than the old batteries.


Ventilation

Ventilation is another important thing to consider when converting your campervan. This can be accomplished by installing windows or vents in your van. Proper ventilation is necessary for keeping the air quality inside your van fresh and for preventing condensation build-up.


Conclusion

Careful planning is essential when undertaking a campervan conversion. By taking the time to figure out what you want and gathering the necessary materials, you can ensure that your conversion will be a success. And finally, when you begin the conversion process itself, be sure to take your time and pay attention to detail—safety is always paramount.


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