So you’ve decided to join the (hashtag) van life movement, but you don’t know where to begin when it comes to converting a van.
You’re not alone. With the rising costs of rent following a seemingly neverending global pandemic, more Americans than ever before are joining the ranks of the nomadic lifestyle.
The good news is that converting a van doesn’t have to be a daunting process. In fact, it can be fun, exciting, and practical for a wide array of budgets.
Below I’ve outlined some of the basics you’ll need to know before getting started on your van conversion.
Formulate a Plan
Before you get started, you’ll want to formulate a plan of action. If this means first buying a van, you’ll need to ask yourself what your travel goals are.
What type of traveling do you intend to do? Will you travel full-time or part-time? A year trekking cross-country on a national park tour and a summer parked by the beach will change the basics of your setup.
Make a Budget
Ask yourself how much would you ideally like to spend and how flexible your budget is. Set a maximum limit, but know that various factors may affect this number along the way.
You’ll want to break your budget down into bite-sized pieces. If this is your first van conversion, you probably won’t even know what exactly to budget for. Some ideas of things you’ll want to consider when budgeting:
- Heating
- Insulation
- Plumbing
- Solar panels
- Lumber
- Tools
- Flooring
- Lighting
- Decor
Unforeseen expenses are just one of those facts of life when living in a van. However, setting a budget from the start will help keep your goals on track throughout the decision-making process.
Define Your Needs
Are you traveling solo? With a dog? Begin to explore the items in your life that you find useful and the things you find necessary for your overall comfort and well-being.
What may be essential for one person may only be a convenience for another. For example, indoor plumbing, a fridge, and a cooktop are common essentials for most – unless you have access to separate facilities.
If you’re going to be working on the road, you may want to consider creating a dedicated workspace. Outdoor hobbies and activities may also require you to think about what additional storage space you’ll need for these items.
Most importantly, try to utilize your space in the most efficient way possible. Imagine how each area can serve multiple functions. Don’t be afraid to get creative and think outside the box (or, in this case, box on wheels.)
Design Your Layout
If you have no previous carpentry or remodeling experience, this is where things may begin to get tricky. However, with the internet – anything is possible. But, be sure to do your research.
Begin to craft the layout in your mind, and then put pen to paper and bring it to life. There are several online tools available specifically tailored to help you map the layout of your van build.
Take measurements of everything. Draw out your sleeping quarters, cabinetry, and even a path you’d like to keep clear. Organization – assigning a proper home for each item – is key to comfortable living in small quarters.
Gut Clean and Build
If you’re starting from scratch, you’ll want to gut the interior entirely for a clean slate. However, if you’re on a tighter budget, you may want to utilize some of the components already inside the van or build over them.
Then, you’re ready to gather your tools and begin the building process.
Don’t worry if you don’t get it right the first time. As you settle into van life, you’ll come to discover what works for you and what doesn’t. Then you can make adjustments accordingly along the way.
Living and traveling in a van comes with learning curves. Get more info from van life pioneers before you – to gather tips and tricks that’ll save you from some unnecessary trials and errors.
Convert a Van and Your Life
Converting a van can be an exciting and rewarding journey – from owning a van to creating a space you can live and travel out of for years to come is an unrivaled feat.
So get started down the road to freedom today with this step-by-step guide!
Did you find this article helpful? Check out the Travel section of our blog to discover great places to explore and more!
