Maximizing Space in Your Campervan

There are many advantages to owning a campervan: adventure with the comforts of home, a chance to connect with nature, the freedom of the open road with the benefits of staying connected, just to name a few. With so much to love, what’s not to like?

Let’s play a game.

Perhaps you’ve heard of Family Feud. If you haven’t, or if it’s been a while, the concept is simple: guess the most popular answer. Level 1: let’s go.

We asked 100 people “What is the #1 disadvantage of living in a camper van?”

Bzzzzzzztt. “Lack of space?”

Survey says…. *ding!* Lack of space!

Ok, we didn’t survey 100 people, but a quick Google search elicits the same result. Campervans, unsurprisingly, don’t come with a lot of space. Do we let this obstacle defeat us? Never! With some creativity, a bit of careful planning, and some modern engineering, (and maybe some downsizing of possessions for you hoarders out there), the lack of space in a campervan quickly becomes a non-issue. Let’s dive into some clever solutions to maximize space in your campervan. 

Choosing the Right Storage Options

Let’s start with the most obvious solution: storage. If you’re considering a campervan conversion, there are many storage options to explore. When evaluating these options, consider form (i.e. your personal preference) and function (accessibility and weight distribution) to determine which solution best suits your needs. The most common storage options in campervans are built-in cabinets, overhead storage compartments, under-bed storage, and modular storage systems.

1. Built-in Cabinets: Built-in cabinets and shelves offer a seamless integration into the van’s interior, providing a sleek space to store belongings while keeping them close at hand. These cabinets provide attractive and convenient storage but may limit flexibility in layout changes and can prove difficult to install in some van models. 

2. Overhead Storage Compartments: Overhead storage compartments make use of vertical space, effectively utilizing areas that may go unused. These compartments are excellent for storing bulkier items and keeping the main living area clutter-free - although it should be noted they can be difficult to access, especially for those with limited mobility.

3. Under-Bed Storage: Utilizing the space under the main bed, using drawers, shelving, or bins, can free up space in the main living area and provide easy access to belongings while keeping them out of sight. 

4. Exterior Storage Solutions: As the name implies, exterior storage systems offer versatility and the potential to customize, allowing owners to adapt their storage setup according to their specific needs. While they provide flexibility, they may require more initial planning and installation time compared to other storage solutions.

5-Step Plan to Organize Your Campervan

Besides the storage itself, there’s one other key ingredient to maximizing space in your campervan: organization. When you have a lot of stuff but not a lot of space, be it in a closet, a home, or a campervan, organization is key to keeping things tidy and readily accessible. Not sure where to begin? Here’s a 5-step plan to organize your campervan:

Step 1: Declutter

Time to channel your inner Marie Kondo. Try removing all your items from the campervan and sorting them into categories - kitchen supplies, clothing, outdoor gear, etc. If there are items you don’t need or use, it’s time to part ways. Opting for van living is a great opportunity to embrace minimalism, and you may learn there are plenty of things you can easily live without. Opt for easy wins, like bringing an eReader instead of endless books, or paring down to 2-4 plates, mugs, and bowls. With some things out of the way, take time to assess the available storage space and plan how to best utilize it for your needs.

Step 2: Look up

Maximize your vertical space. Consider installing shelves, hooks, and hanging organizers on walls and ceilings. This will free up space to move about and store larger items. This may be where you consider installing overhead storage compartments, modular storage, or track systems to better customize to your preferences. 

Step 3: Multi-Use

Invest in furniture and household items that are multi-use, such as benches with built-in storage, fold-down tables, convertible beds, and multiuse kitchen tools. This will help optimize your space and increase storage capacity without sacrificing comfort and function.

Step 4: Organize and Categorize

If you want to more easily find what you’re looking for down the literal road, organize and categorize your possessions. Feel free to do this however works for you, by sorting similar items together and designating specific areas for those items. These categories might include kitchen items, outdoor gear, clothing, and/or toiletries.

Step 5: Label and Secure

We’ve all been there: you’re looking for a specific item (matches, air pump, favorite pair of socks) and you can’t for the life of you remember which drawer/cabinet/storage bin you left it in. By labeling storage containers, bins, and drawers, you may be able to prevent the dreaded dig to find necessary items, or at the very least more easily identify their contents. Also consider investing in bungee cords, cargo nets, and/or straps to secure loose items while in transit, ensuring they stay where you left them.

Following these five steps, you can effectively organize your campervan to maximize space usage, improve accessibility to your belongings, and maintain a tidy living environment throughout your travels.

Shopping List: Organizing Necessities

Here’s a list of tried and true organization tools that can help keep your van neat and tidy:

• Shelves and Hooks:

• Floating shelves

• Command hooks

• Over-the-door hooks

• Hanging Organizers:

• Hanging closet organizers

• Shoe organizers with pockets

• Mesh or fabric hanging storage bags

• Multi-Functional Furniture:

• Bench with built-in storage

• Fold-down table

• Convertible sofa bed

• Modular Storage Systems:

• Modular storage cubes

• Track systems with movable attachments

• Stackable bins or drawers

• Collapsible Containers:

• Collapsible storage bins

• Foldable storage crates

• Pop-up laundry hamper

• Packing Cubes and Travel Bags:

• Packing cubes in various sizes

• Compression bags for clothing

• Travel pouches for accessories

• Labeled Containers:

• Clear plastic storage bins in different sizes

• Label maker or adhesive labels

• Chalkboard labels for reusable containers

• Bungee Cords and Cargo Nets:

• Assorted sizes of bungee cords

• Cargo net for securing larger items

• Adjustable cargo straps with hooks

• Minimalist Kitchen Essentials:

• Multi-purpose utensils (spork, multi-tool)

• Collapsible silicone cookware (pots, bowls)

• Stackable dishes and cups

• Cleaning Supplies:

• Microfiber cloths

• Compact broom and dustpan

• All-purpose cleaner in a refillable spray bottle

Summary

The question remains - is the lack of space a major hindrance in campervan life? No, or at least, it doesn’t need to be. Maximizing space in a van conversion simply requires thoughtful planning and creative problem-solving. Carefully considering storage options and keeping the space well-organized can help create a comfortable and functional living space.

Got a question? Contact our team to learn more about campervan storage options.

Exploring Different Sleeping Solutions for Your Custom Camper Van

Aww, to wake up in nature. Babbling brooks, rustling leaves, twittering birdsong, the warm glow of sun filtering through the trees. These sights and sounds can evoke feelings of calm and contentment in even the heaviest of souls.

Unless that soul didn’t get a good night’s sleep.

In van life - and life in general - sleep is paramount to a good experience. The comfort and familiarity of a well-designed sleeping space can signal the difference between cheerful chirps or a clanging cacophony, toasty rays gently summoning a new day or a glaring wake-up call. But while prioritizing sleep seems like a no-brainer, the confined spaces available in camper vans can make finding the right solution challenging. From selecting your main beds, accessory beds, and all the other factors conducive to happy sleeping arrangements, let’s look at what sleep solutions are available for your camper van.

Choices, Choices: Considerations for Choosing Your Sleeping Solutions

A good night’s sleep is priceless. And while there’s little better than getting out on the road and exploring every corner of this earth, even the most comfortable sleeping bag/pad combo can’t replace the coziness and comfort of your bed. This is one of a hundred different reasons we love a camper van: all the comfort and familiarity of home, no matter where you are - especially if you prioritize sleeping arrangements in your design.

The main bed is a decision that can greatly alter your van’s design and functionality. It is easily the largest design component in your van and will take up the most space, determining much of the overall layout of your camper van. Because of its size and, frankly, importance, we always start with the main bed in our design process. 

Since this decision so greatly impacts the rest of the design, it’s crucial to determine your priorities: what do you want, need, and require from your van? We all dream of the California King mattress, but with the limited space offered in a van, it’s imperative to understand the trade-offs. 

In the confined space of a van, every single decision involves a trade-off. A larger bed means more storage - but also requires installing pricey bump-outs. A smaller bed might mean tighter sleeping arrangements but could allow for more living space and room to entertain. Whether you're designing a home away from home or a cozy place to crash on the road to nowhere, the best sleeping arrangement for your van boils down to your individual priorities and what purpose you want your van to serve. Some good things to consider are:

1. Size of the bed

• The dimensions of the bed play a vital role in determining comfort and available space within the camper van.

2. Orientation of the Bed

• The positioning of the bed, whether North-South or East-West, influences the overall layout and flow of the camper van interior.

3. Storage Needs

• Assessing storage needs is important, as it impacts the organization and accessibility of gear and supplies in tight camper van spaces.

4. Convenience

• Prioritizing convenience in design choices ensures that the camper van setup is user-friendly, easy to navigate, and supports daily routines.

5. Hangout Space

• Designating a comfortable area for socializing or relaxing is essential for creating a multifunctional camper van interior that goes beyond just sleeping arrangements.

Traditional Bed Configurations

Traditional bed configurations play a crucial role in determining the flow and functionality of your camper van. With the rise of van and bus conversions in recent years, more and more efficient options have arisen; options that provide the necessary sleep space without sacrificing form and function (and storage!) The three most common bed layouts are fixed floating beds, adjustable floating beds, and dinette-to-bed conversions.

Fixed Floating Beds: As the name suggests, this bed is permanently fixed in a specific position within the camper van. This fixture provides a space dedicated to sleeping with a large storage space or garage beneath. 

• Pro: Stability and permanent design. The bed is always ready and the large storage space beneath is convenient for fixed storage for all your gear and supplies.

• Con: Space Constraints. The fixed nature of these beds can limit the flexibility of the interior space. While these beds can be set up in a North-South or East-West configuration, the latter may require the installation of bump-outs.

Adjustable Floating Beds: Innovative solutions like the Happi Jac bed here offer flexibility. Where a fixed-floating bed offers storage, an adjustable floating bed offers more living space. By day, the area under the bed is a cozy spot to hang out - and with the push of a button, you have a bedroom.

• Pro: Adjustable floating beds offer versatility by providing a space that can double as a lounge area as well as a sleeping space. 

• Con: Lack of storage. While these beds can provide a great dual-function space, those needing ample storage likely won’t benefit from this option.

Dinette-to-bed Conversions: What’s the biggest piece of furniture in the house after a bed? Arguably it’s a dining table. This design combines the two into one multi-use space: a dining and entertaining area by day, and a full-size bed by night. Typically, this works by the tabletop lowering down while additional cushions create a sleeping space. 

• Pro: Dining area? Check. Bedroom? Check. This option is great for those who want to maximize the functionality of limited space.

• Con: Setup and breakdown. Converting the space from one to the other regularly isn’t as convenient as having a dedicated sleeping area.

Accessory Beds Options

Accessory beds in camper vans are popular due to their space-saving and versatile designs which make efficient use of limited interior space. Much like the dinette-to-bed conversion, these beds often serve double duty, such as transforming seating areas into beds or incorporating retractable features like pop tops. The flexibility of accessory beds makes camper vans more adaptable to various lifestyles and preferences, enhancing overall function and comfort.

Pop tops

• Pop tops are retractable roofs that can be elevated to provide additional standing room, creating a more spacious interior. The elevated space often serves as an additional sleeping area, allowing for a comfortable bed without sacrificing the van’s overall height when driving.

Seats to bed 

• This convertible bed design involves transforming the seating area of the camper van into a bed. The seats can be rearranged or folded down to create an additional sleeping space.

Bench to bed

• As the name implies, a bench-to-bed option typically involves a bench or seating area that can be converted into a bed. This design maximizes the utility of the space, with extra seating by day, and space for respite at night.

Permanent bunk beds 

• For those who prefer consistent, readily available sleeping arrangements, permanent bunk beds offer a fixed sleeping solution without sacrificing a lot of space.

Cabunk beds 

• Cabunk beds are bunk beds specifically designed for the cab area of the camper van. They make efficient use of space above the driver and passenger seats, providing additional sleeping quarters without compromising the living area of the van.

Tent

• Some camper vans come equipped with tent accessories that can be attached to the exterior, expanding the living space. These tents provide an outdoor sleeping option while protecting sleepers from the elements.

Summary 

The importance of selecting the right sleeping solution cannot be overstated. It influences both comfort and functionality, setting the tone for your entire camper van experience. A well-planned choice in line with your unique priorities ensures that your home on wheels is not just a vehicle - but a home away from home.

At Wanderful Wheels, we work with van lifers to ensure their camper vans are unique and tailored to their unique wants and desires. Our expertise lies in crafting personalized solutions that align with specific needs, lifestyles, and preferences. 

Ready to embark on your camper van adventure complete with the perfect sleeping solution? Contact Wanderful Wheels for a personalized consultation and design service. 

How Much Does a Camper Van Cost?

An escape from the confines of conventional life, inspiration from works like On the Road, and the insatiable feeling of wanderlust are just a few reasons many have dreamed of a life less tethered. And while the COVID-19 pandemic was fraught with hardships, there was at least one silver lining - the rapid adoption of flexible work.

The world was already online, the pandemic simply illuminated how productive society can be outside the confines of an office setting. When given the choice to work from anywhere, more than a few people decided to work from everywhere by taking life on the road in a camper van.

But it’s not just the work-from-homers who are adopting van life: camper vans also provide an escape into nature without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of home. And unlike an RV, they’re easy to drive; you can park them in a downtown area or take them fully off the grid. If you’re ready to take the plunge and see what all the fuss is about, let’s take a look at how much a camper van really costs.

First things first: The Van 

What’s the single biggest expense when buying a camper van? The van itself. Anyone in the market for a camper van, house, or loaf of bread in the last few years has undoubtedly encountered a rapid rate of inflation, with the automotive industry taking one of the hardest hits. Since 2020, the cost of a new vehicle has increased nearly 30%. Along with this inflation, tech advancements and a growing variety of gear have contributed significantly to the increase in the cost of camper vans.

On the bright side, vans now have innovative technology that improves overall safety and comfort. These advanced features include 360-degree cameras, blind spot assistance, large touchscreen monitors, and smart tech like adaptive cruise control.

With all that in mind, how much should you budget for a new van? Here’s a look at some of the top brands:

1. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD: $65,000 - $85,000

• The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the gold standard of camper van conversions, known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and fuel economy. 

2. Ram ProMaster: $50,000 - $65,000

• The Ram ProMaster is recognized for its practical design, cargo capacity, and user-friendly features.

3. Ford Transit: $41,955 - $65,0000

• The Ford Transit is best known for its extensive range of configurations and efficient performance.

Any of these models would make a suitable camper van, with the choice boiling down to individual needs and preferences. It’s important to consider which features matter most to you - cargo space, fuel efficiency, technology features, and overall suitability - and how they influence the overall budget. See our range of available vans here.

Extra! Extra! Material Costs

After deciding which van suits your needs, the next big expenditure is what features to include. The rise in popularity of camper vans means that van-lifers have more choices than ever, such as cutting-edge entertainment systems, energy-efficient appliances, off-grid electrical systems, and space-saving storage solutions. Those opting for a van conversion should take a close look at the costs of these additional materials and budget accordingly.

Material Costs Breakdown:

1: Off-the-grid electrical systems -  $10,000 to $30,000

There have been some major tech improvements in off-the-grid electrical systems in recent years. One of these improvements is that vans can now easily carry over 1000 AH of battery storage. Lithium batteries, in particular, have become the go-to choice due to their smaller size, lighter weight, and greater storage capacity. Complementing these advancements are solar options tailored specifically for camper vans, with panels designed to fit unique roof shapes of different models. These solar panels are not only more efficient but also offer flexible mounting options and integrated charge controllers.

2: Appliance - $5,000 to $20,000

When it comes to van conversions, integrating more efficient appliances is paramount. Efficient air conditioners and heaters designed specifically for vans are essential for providing comfort in various climates. The availability of DC (direct current) appliances, particularly refrigerators, offers camper van owners a range of sizes and options that cater to their needs. The cost of these appliances ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on brand, capacity, and energy efficiency.

3: Interior build - $30,000 to $200,000

Camper van interior builds vary widely in cost based on the features you want for basic vs full-time living. These costs are impacted by the quality of materials, specific features, and the level of customization. A basic interior build might include all the essential features for a comfortable camping experience, like basic seating and sleeping arrangements, and might cost as little as $5,000, whereas a high-end build may include hardwood floors, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a smart home system, with prices hitting up to $200,000 or more.

4: Exterior Gear - $500 to $50,000

No camper van conversion is complete without exterior features. These include roof racks, bumpers, lighting, suspension upgrades, and exterior storage, all to ensure your family and gear make it to your destination in one piece. There are many options, with prices varying widely depending on materials. Opting for lightweight, durable materials, such as aluminum, can significantly increase costs. For example, a roof rack designed to carry rec equipment or a rooftop tent can range from $1500 to $7000 or more. Suspension upgrades, crucial for those who like to take things off-road, can range from $ 5,000-$7,000+. 

Average Build Costs at Wanderful Wheels

Building your dream van is an exciting venture, and understanding the costs is crucial for planning. The average camper van built at Wanderful Wheels works out to around $75,000, excluding the price of the van itself. As noted above, this cost greatly varies depending on the preferences and requirements of each individual van-lifer. Costs can span from $45,000 for a functional, minimalist build to a more luxurious and feature-rich build that may reach up to $200,000 or more. The wide range in costs underscores the potential for customization, ensuring each build is specifically suited to the individual’s needs. For a specific valuation, contact us for an estimate.

Financing

Good news, prospective van lifers - financing for camper vans has evolved significantly in the last 5 years.  There are far more options these days, including the option for a long-term RV loan that provides extended repayment options more in line with the longevity of your standard camper van. As with any line of financing, it’s best to shop around to ensure the best interest rates and terms. Many of our clients have found the best rates through smaller banks and credit unions. We also work with a few institutions to provide more financing options for our clients.

Summary

Whether it's for the odd adventure out or a more permanent housing solution, embarking on a camper van build is an exciting choice. It’s important to understand what features are important for your individual build and carefully research what options are available to stay within your budget. 

If you’re ready to jump into van life, contact us to get started!

Promaster vs. Sprinter vs. Transit: Which Van is Best for You?

There are three main cargo vans used for van life conversions – The Ram Promaster, Mercedes Sprinter, and Ford Transit. Each of these models offers multiple configurations, including roof height, overall length, and powertrain options. 

This variety can be overwhelming, but the good news is that this means there is a perfect option for every budget, build style, and set of requirements. Let’s break down each model and what they have to offer. 

Mercedes Sprinter 

The Mercedes Sprinter is the gold standard of new camper van conversions. It is the most familiar choice in the realm of camper vans, having been a fixture on the US market for an extended period, solidifying its place as a trusted and iconic option for those seeking reliability and quality.

The Sprinter offers a turbo four-cylinder or turbo six-cylinder – and a turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. The Sprinter also offers a diesel engine that plays a pivotal role in maintaining its value over time, outlasting many alternatives in the van market.

These different powertrains all boast impressive fuel economy for their respective power levels, and some can be combined with all-wheel-drive for improved traction off-road or in inclement weather. The Mercedes Sprinter, in particular, shines with the best clearance in its class, enhancing accessibility to diverse terrains.

Sprinters come in two wheelbases, three lengths, and two roof heights, making for a total of 6 different body configurations.

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Sprinter Van Model Dimensions

Sprinter Vans come with two different wheelbase options with 3 lengths:

• 144 inches

• 170 inches

• 170 Ext

Three different lengths:

• 233.5 inches

• 274.3 inches

• 290 inches

And two different heights:

• 97.9-inch standard roof 

• 109.1-inch high roof

Ford Transit 

The Ford Transit has been gaining popularity with van lifers. As of 2020, Ford built the Transit with an all-wheel-drive option which makes it more competitive with the Sprinter. Ford Transits are available with a regular 6-cylinder gas engine or EcoBoost as an upgrade. The powerful optional EcoBoost engine and many parts shared with Ford trucks and SUVs make for an exceptionally effortless and familiar driving experience. 

Ford takes a slightly different approach to body configurations than Sprinter, offering a mid-height roof or a tall roof with one of two body lengths. All three vehicles share the same wheelbase which makes for a more predictable turning radius at the expense of slightly less configurability than the Sprinter.

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Ford Transit Model Dimensions

Ford Transits come with two different wheelbase options and 3 different lengths:

• 130 inches

• 148 inches

Three different lengths:

• Regular (220 inches)

• Long (238 inches)

• Extended (264 inches)

And three different heights

• Low (82 inches)

• Medium (97 inches)

• High (109 inches)

Ram Promaster 

The Ram Promaster stands out in the van market, renowned for its unique "square" cargo area that makes it an ideal canvas for campervan build-outs. This design not only provides easy maneuverability but also maximizes the usable space within the van, allowing for efficient and creative interior layouts for those embarking on campervan conversion projects.

The Promasters not only excel in its campervan-friendly design but also prove to be a practical choice for long-term ownership and maintenance. Sharing its engine and transmission components with a wide range of vehicles under the Chrysler umbrella, including Jeep, Dodge, and Ram models from the past decade, the Promaster boasts accessibility to an extensive network of parts. This ensures cost-effectiveness in maintenance and makes replacement parts readily available in virtually every corner of the world—a notable contrast to the potential drawbacks encountered with the Sprinter vans.

Since the Promaster only comes with one engine option – a naturally aspirated V6 – and front-wheel-drive, its main value propositions are the unique size combinations and relative value in the upfront purchase price.

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Ram Promaster Model Dimensions

Ram Promaster comes with three different wheelbase options and 4 different lengths:

• 118 inches

• 136 inches

• 159 inches

Four different lengths:

• 195 inches

• 213 inches

• 236 inches*

• 250 inches*

*These lengths are available only with the 159-inch wheelbase

And two different heights:

• Low (89 inches)

• High (99 inches)

Van Options for Everyone 

Each van model offers some distinct pros and cons. Thankfully, they are all configurable and reliable platforms for a Wanderful Wheels build! 

The Sprinter has long been the platform of choice for high-end van builds; its combination of powertrains, wheelbases, and roof heights plus luxurious vehicle amenities makes it a great option. The main drawbacks to the Sprinter are price and dealer network – you pay for the Mercedes name and features, and not all Mercedes dealerships are Sprinter service centers, which means you may find yourself a long way from help if an issue arises. 

While the Ford Transit boasts a diverse and powerful engine lineup, an all-wheel-drive option, and extensive dealer and parts support, it is important to note that some consumers have reported manufacturing delays associated with certain models. 

The Ram Promaster's shorter size offerings and lower price for comparable features make it an appealing offering for those new to van life or who have packaging concerns. There are a lot of Ram dealerships out there, and the Promaster shares many parts with other Ram trucks. 

How to Choose the Right Van for You 

We are glad three manufacturers offer different takes on the cargo van. All of them offer their benefits and drawbacks, and Wanderful Wheels is honored to work with you to select the best option for your dream camper van build. 

When you are shopping for a camper van, we know the options can feel overwhelming. We hope this post helps outline some of the differences between each model. Start with the biggest constraints, like budget or availability, then go down your priorities list. Everyone’s needs are different, from vehicle features to size and drivetrain preferences, budget, maintenance, and more. Whether you’ve got an exact set of needs or just want to learn more about what’s out there, our team is here to help. 

Check out our available vans for sale here and feel free to contact our team with any questions!