5 Things to Consider Before Planning Your Campervan Conversion
There are a lot of different elements to consider when planning your campervan conversion. From the type of van you convert to what sort of cooking structure you want, the options seem endless. From comfortable, luxury fit-outs that make vanlife a reality (check out Ainsley’s Toyota Hiace Minibus) to the uber-niche Nissan Vanette we converted for two rock climbers, we have experience with many different conversions and fit-out needs.
We’ve compiled a list of some basic questions we ask our clients when they’re ready for a conversion. Whether they’ve purchased their van or not, these questions help vanlifers identify their van needs and help us create the best conversion possible. If you’re considering a campervan conversion, start by asking yourself the below questions and jotting down your answers.
1. What size vehicle are YOU working with
If you already own the vehicle, then this is easy. If you don’t, consider the different options you have with different sized and shaped vans. If you’re still on the market, have a think about the following.
Key things to consider:
How many people are coming with you?
Most vans have space for a maximum of three people in front, so if you have children you’ll want to make sure there are seats in the back.
Adding additional seats can be costly and take up a lot of space - something to consider
Is the dog coming with you? You’ll want space for your pooch to lie and easy access to their food.
Do you need 4WD capability?
What gear is essential to bring?
This determines the storage space needed. For example, an avid surfer will have different storage needs to a boulderer.
This question also helps determine the best material to use on your build.
Do you want to be able to stand and cook inside?
How important is maneuverability while driving?
Many campsites and parking spaces in New Zealand are small, making larger campervans difficult to move around. A smaller van is more agile, but you’ll sacrifice space on the inside.
2. How do you want to use your campervan
Are you a weekend warrior or a full-time van-lifer? Your usability will help us determine the electrical system, fridge size, cooking space, livability, and storage.
Key things to consider:
How long will you be away at a time?
Are you full-time van life or just wanting to roam on the weekends?
Do you prefer plug-in campsites or off-grid spots?
If you like to go off-grid, how many days do you like to go away at a time?
Do you plan on using your van in the winter or just in the summer?
If using in winter, how many days do you like to go off-grid?
3. What are the must-haves and your nice-to-haves
This is where the fun starts. Brainstorm what’s essential to your conversion and what’s a nice-to-have. This will help determine layout, add-ons, and more.
Key things to consider:
How do you want to sleep?
Do you want a fixed bed that never needs to be folded up or a convertible bed that converts into seating and a table?
Is it important for you to fit on the entire bed (also - how tall are you/people traveling with you?)
How much refrigeration do you need?
Is a freezer essential?
How do you like to cook - indoor or outdoor?
Do you want your cooking station to be fixed or portable?
Do you want a toilet?
Do you want a shower?
Do you want something portable or fixed?
Consider plumbing.
Do you want a powered water pump?
On-demand hot water inside the van?
External washdown tap?
Water tank monitoring?
Consider the electrical system.
What do you need to power in the van?
Do you want to have the mains power available? Off-grid?
Are you interested in solar power?
Consider heating and ventilation
Do you want heating?
Do you want insulation?
Do you want ventilation?
4. Do you have a rough layout in mind
Do you have a rough layout plan that you could sketch up? We’re not looking for anything professional (that’s where we come in), just a quick drawing that helps us understand your desired outcome.
5. Ideas and Inspiration
Now that you have an idea of what you need, start to take inspiration from things you see online. The best way to show us what you want is by compiling images and references to share with us. The best way to do this is either screenshots or through a Pinterest board, which you can share with us, so we can start to piece together your style and ideas.
Phew, you made it! Some of these questions might be easy to answer, while others need a bit of time and research. If you’re confident with your answers and ready to take it to the next level, get in touch! We’re ready to help you kickstart your campervan conversion today.
