Camper Van Build Guide
So, you are thinking about buying and converting a van into a camper?! Congrats. It is a fun process. We started dreaming up the idea of buying a used cargo van and converting it into a tiny home, to travel North America, back in January of 2017. Eight months later, we had a complete mobile office and adventure mobile. The process of converting a van is a lot of work, but so rewarding, between having done it ourselves and what we learned in the process. Through our camper van build guide, ee will be sharing our build process by explaining the step by step details, materials research and tips we learned along the way. We hope these articles will inspire you in your own van conversion, as well, shorten the learning curve.
Our Van
2015 Ford Transit 250, used
148″ wheel base, extended length, high roof
3.7L Gasoline Engine
Limited Slip Differential
Cruise Control
Conversion Specs
Cost $38,644.08
Van $25,420.00
Conversion $13,224.08
Labor 3,248 hours (135.33 days)
Most Useful Tools and Materials
Van Build Blog Posts
DIY Bed – Sewing Van Cushions For Your Camper
From sourcing material to measuring / cutting to sewing zippers, learn how to sew design and sew a mattress that converts to couch cushions for your camper van.
Custom Convertible Sofa Bed in a Camper Van
Having a custom convertible sofa bed is great for anyone who plans to spend a significant amount of time working, living, or hanging out in their van.
Camper Van Build List: Materials, Parts, & Tools
The complete list of materials, parts, and tools that went into converting our cargo van into a camper.
Van Layout: Designing a Mobile Office
If you are designing the layout of your van or just want inspiration on van office configuration, this article is for you.
Van Build Questions Answered
Read some of our answers to some of the most common questions that we have been asked about our van build.
Installing Flooring in a Camper Van
Installing flooring in a van is pretty similar to installing it in a house, but there are a few key differences. . .
Thermally Insulating a Van
Insulating our van was important for staying cool in the summer, warm in the winter, and, most of all, keeping our water from freezing. . .
Installing Sound Damping in a Cargo Van
Cargo vans can be quite loud compared to normal vehicle, but installing sound damping can help. Learn how here!
Sound Damping Materials Research
Learn the science behind how sound damping materials work so that you can make a more informed decision on which one to use in your van.