Small camper vans are a superb approach to reside the van life with out spending a fortune in your car. Moreover, these campervans are way more discrete than a high-top van like a Mercedes Sprinter or a Ford Transit.No one will ever know you’re inside such a small camper van when you park on any metropolis road in stealth tenting fashion!
We started our van life journey by dwelling in a Chevy Astro van. This van was unbelievable since nobody anticipated somebody to reside inside. We parked on metropolis streets, in business districts, and in marina heaps.
Mini camper vans are additionally extra gasoline environment friendly and straightforward to deal with and park. In the event you’re extra of a weekend warrior van lifer, they will match into most standard garages.
Do you’ve a robust need for a bit camper van? Some people are perplexed as to why I adored my Chevy Astro, which is basically a glorified minivan.
However I like how simple it’s to park and the way stealthy it’s. Plus, I received’t have to purchase as a lot to outfit it.
In order for you a compact camper, you’ve just a few choices. You’ll be able to both purchase a customized van or create one your self.
You should purchase a brand new or used small cargo van from a dealership, or you should purchase one which has already been custom-made on Fb Market, Craigslist, Ebay, or Fb camper van on the market teams.
Listed here are our high suggestions for the very best tiny camper vans on the market in the USA.
1. The Mercedes Metris Small Camper Van
- Worth: $26,000-$34,000
- Cargo Quantity: 199 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 19
- Exterior Size: 202 inches
- Exterior Top: 75 inches
- Exterior Width: 76 inches
- Inside Headroom: 39.6 inches within the 1st row; 41.4 inches within the 2nd row
The Mercedes Metris van was launched to the North American market in 2015. You’ll be able to select between an everyday or lengthy wheelbase within the cargo model of this car. It is available in two lengths: normal and prolonged.
This compact camper van on the market is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 7-speed transmission. With a most capability of two,502 kilos, the Mercedes Metris can transport greater than the opposite vans. As compared, the Nissan NV200 carries a payload of 1,480 kilos.
Mercedes Metris vans characteristic a bigger cargo space than the competitors, giving you extra space to create your campervan. They’ve a 270-degree swing-open again door or a hatchback tailgate. The looks resembles a piece van, making this car an especially discreet camper.
The primary drawback of this van is that it’s the costliest of the smaller vans, requires premium gasoline, and is harder to park attributable to its prolonged wheelbase. One other issue to contemplate is the dimensions of the home windows, that are smaller than these seen on different vans, leading to much less visibility and extra privateness.
2. Ford Transit Join Mini Camper Van
- Worth: $24,000-$31,000
- Cargo Quantity: 104 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 25
- Exterior Size: 174.2 inches
- Exterior Size: 174.2 inches
- Exterior Top: 72 inches
- Exterior Width: 72 inches
- Inside Headroom: 46.9 inches
The Ford Transit Join is a low-cost camper van with glorious gasoline financial system. It’s been round since 2012, so there are a selection of secondhand vans on the market, in addition to camper vans which might be already constructed out.
Contain a mechanic in your quest in your new car – Transmission issues have been reported on Transit Connects.
This compact camper van is accessible with two engines: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder van and a turbocharged 1.6-liter Ecoboost 4-cylinder. This van’s most payload is 1,620 kilos.
It is a comparatively small camper van on the market (the second smallest on this class) that doesn’t have the identical cargo room or 4WD drive as a few of its opponents. It does, nevertheless, have twin sliding doorways on the perimeters that make it very simple to air out and entry.
The exterior design makes it a terrific covert tenting car. Moreover, as a result of it’s little, it’s simpler and cheaper to restore. Moreover, others declare that whereas this compact tenting van lacks energy, it’s simple to drive.
3. Ram Promaster Metropolis Small Camper Van
- Worth: $24,000-$27,000
- Cargo quantity: 132 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 24
- Exterior Size: 188 inches
- Exterior Top: 74 inches
- Exterior Width: 74 inches
- Inside Headroom: 46 inches
The Promaster Metropolis tiny campervan on the market was debuted in 2015 and boasts an environment friendly freeway gasoline financial system of 28 miles per gallon.
This small van has a cargo quantity of 131.7 cubic ft and a cargo space width of 48.4 inches between the wheel wells. This van is second in load area solely to the Mercedes Metris.
The Promaster Metropolis is powered by a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine and has a payload capability of 1,886 kilos. It additionally comes normal with a nine-speed computerized transmission. Homeowners respect how reliable and long-lasting the engine is.
One stage above the bottom cargo van mannequin, or the SLT, you get a van with oil adjustments each 10,000 miles, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise management, and heated seats.
What’s the most interesting facet of this agile van? The again partitions are virtually vertical, making DIY conversion comparatively easy. Nevertheless, it isn’t out there in 4WD and doesn’t have a diesel engine.
4. Nissan NV 200 Compact Cargo Van
- Worth: $22,000-$23,000
- Cargo Quantity: 122 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 25
- Exterior Size: 186 inches
- Exterior Top: 74 inches
- Exterior Width: 68 inches
- Inside Headroom: 41.7 inches
The Nissan NV 200 is a low-cost mini camper van on the market with glorious gasoline mileage that’s designed for metropolis driving. By way of cargo area, the van falls in need of the Metris, Ford Transit Join, and Promaster Metropolis.
With a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, the NV 200 produces much less energy than its opponents. This makes it perfect for van lifers who plan to journey huge distances frequently.
Remember the fact that the Nissan NV 200 compact camper van has a most payload of 1,480 kilos when planning your DIY campervan challenge. In the event you overload this van, it’ll perform poorly.
This van has the benefit of being the least costly of the group.
5. Toyota Sienna AWD Small Camper Van
- Worth: $34,710-$42,250
- Cargo Quantity: 101 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 22 mpg gasoline / 35 mpg hybrid
- Exterior Size: 204 inches
- Exterior Top: 69 – 70 inches
- Exterior Width: 79 inches
- Inside Headroom: 40.1 inches within the 1st row; 39.9 inches within the 2nd row; 37.4 inches within the third row
The Toyota Sienna is a well-liked tiny camper van because it is likely one of the few trendy vans with All-Wheel-Drive. This is likely one of the finest camper vans for boondocking as a result of it’s much less susceptible to sand, snow, and muck.
The Sienna can be fairly reliable, making it each cheap to restore and long-lasting. You’ll not danger turning into stranded within the desert attributable to an engine failure.
Moreover, the Toyota Sienna is bigger than among the finest cargo vans talked about above. Have a look at this:
The Toyota Sienna: 16′, 8″ lengthy and 6.5′ large.
The Ford Transit Join: 14′, 5″ lengthy and seven′ large.
The Ram Promaster Metropolis: 15′,5″ lengthy and 6′ large.
The massive aspect sliding door makes getting out and in of the van a breeze, which is right for days whenever you need to arrange a tiny out of doors lounge below the aspect awning.
As a result of the again seats are simply eliminated, you may convert this minivan your self, saving some huge cash on the construct.
6. Chevy Astro Small Campervan
- Worth: $6,000
- Cargo Quantity: 170 cubic ft
- Exterior Size: 189.8 inches
- Exterior Top: 75 inches
- Exterior Width: 78 inches
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 15
- Inside Headroom: 39 inches within the entrance; 38 inches within the rear
If I didn’t embrace my beloved Chevy Astro van in my record of tiny camper vans for van life, I’d be remiss.
I discovered this Astro conversion van with solely 57,000 miles on Craigslist for $6,000 and made just a few tweaks to make it solely off-grid. Two of us sleep on this dirt-cheap camper van by reclining the again seats right into a campervan mattress, and I purchased two TJ Maxx footstools to increase the mattress.
Due to the upper fiberglass roof, we desired a conversion van. Typical Astros have a modest roof and price round $2,000 or much less.
I like how reliable my van is; it by no means fails us. We transformed it progressively over a few years, making fast and straightforward adjustments as wanted. We now have a Mercedes Sprinter van, however we nonetheless preserve the Chevy Astro in storage and drive it to Mexico to see our yacht.
Listed here are the modifications I made to my van to make it off-road and off-grid succesful:
- GoPower Go Energy 1500-watt Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter Photo voltaic Panel Equipment
- There are two deep cycle batteries.
- A 37-quart ARB fridge
- Journeys Off-Highway BF Goodrich All-Terrain Ko2 Tires 309 with a 3-inch raise equipment.
7. Mitsubishi Delica
- Worth: $10,000-2,000
- Cargo Quantity: not specified
- Exterior Size: 189.8 inches
- Exterior Width: 70.67 inches
- Exterior Top: 75 inches
- Estimated Common MPG: 28
- Inside Headroom: 48 inches
In search of one thing a bit completely different? Contemplate the Mitsubishi Delica. It’s a sturdy and sturdy mid-90s Japanese traditional minibus that’s additionally fairly priced.
The Delica is supplied with 4WD. It’s small, so you may simply discover parking even in cities, but it has a excessive clearance, so you may go off-road.
This car seats eight passengers and folds flat, permitting you to retailer them mounted. Whereas driving the Delica is easy, attributable to its dimension, you will need to achieve this on the unsuitable aspect as a result of these beauties have all been imported immediately from Japan. Keep in mind that the inside top is just 51.8 inches.
As a result of this van was not manufactured in the USA, there are not any firms who specialise in skilled conversions. Nevertheless, you may modify among the smaller conversion kits available on the market.
8. Honda Component Small Camper Van
- Worth: $3,500-$7,000
- Cargo Quantity: 130 cubic ft (with seats eliminated)
- Exterior Size: 170 inches
- Exterior Width: 72 inches
- Exterior Top: 70 inches
- Estimated Common MPG: 22
- Inside Headroom: 43 inches at highest level
The Honda Component is a cult SUV camper that’s common amongst van lifers throughout the USA. The mannequin was withdrawn in 2011, nevertheless in recent times, an growing variety of individuals have determined to transform used ones into campsites.
It’s easy to identify as a result of to its boxy look and distinctive bi-parting doorways. The idea is impressed by a lifeguard station. Regardless of this, it appears precisely like an vehicle, making it extremely covert.
Buying a used Honda Component is kind of value efficient, with some fashions beginning as little as $3,499. It additionally has four-wheel drive, so you may go on some thrilling off-road excursions. Not like different minivans, the Component’s cab is comparatively tall, permitting you to alter inside with out having to sit down down. Sitting up in mattress can be a nice expertise.
There are not any companies that carry out skilled Honda Component conversions.
9. VW Eurovan Camper
- Worth: $10,000-24,000
- Cargo Quantity: 166.6 cubic ft
- Exterior Size: 188.5 inches
- Exterior Width: 72.4 inches
- Exterior Top: 76.4 inches
- Estimated Common MPG: 20
- Inside Headroom: 41.3 inches
Nothing is extra recognizable than a Volkswagen Eurovan Camper. In the event you’re a fan of those small gems, there are many secondhand and fairly priced examples available on the market.
The gasoline mileage is great, making it appropriate for prolonged street journeys all through the nation. The automated transmission is the VW Eurovan’s weak spot; it might trigger points. When potential vans, it’s a good suggestion to look into the car’s historical past and maybe ask a mechanic to return out and examine it with you.
The Eurovan was manufactured as a camper (Volkswagen collaborated with Winnebago to provide them) and has been out of manufacturing since 2003, therefore there are not any firms who specialise in changing it. Nevertheless, you may both clear up the previous inside or totally change it. It’s all as much as you.
The format normally included a range, a sink, and a sofa that may very well be transformed right into a mattress. Some variants even included a pop high, which offered considerably better inside area. Whether or not you keep issues exactly as they had been designed or totally modify them, this little bus makes an exquisite camper.
Extra VW fashions have been introduced into the USA over time, together with the Combi, Westfalia, and Splittie. These are harder to acquire and might be costlier, however with a bit perseverance, you’ll find them.
10. Dodge Grand Caravan Mini Camper
- Worth: from $27,290, new
- Cargo Quantity: 140 cubic ft with seats eliminated
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 20
- Exterior Size: 189 inches
- Exterior Top: 69 inches
- Exterior Width: 79 inches
- Inside Headroom: 39.3 inches
Take a look at the Dodge Grand Caravan when you choose a minivan with a decrease profile. Whereas it seems to be a automotive, it’s fairly lengthy, with plenty of area for sleeping.
It could possibly seat as much as 7 individuals and is kind of giant. It measures 202.8 inches in size, 78.8 inches in width, and 67.9 inches in top. A double mattress and a kitchen are simply accommodated. You’ll be able to prepare dinner at the back of the car because of the rear hatchback door.
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a well-liked vehicle and camper with an extended manufacturing historical past. Consequently, alternative elements are available. Nevertheless, discovering a used one on the market might be robust.
For a similar causes, it retains its price effectively when you plan on buying one for a once-in-a-lifetime trip after which returning to regular life.
11. Honda Odyssey Mini Camper Van
- Worth: from $33,040, new
- Cargo Quantity: 141 cubic ft with seats eliminated
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 22
- Exterior Size: 205 inches
- Exterior Top: 70 inches
- Exterior Width: 79 inches
- Inside Headroom: 40.7 inches within the entrance; 39.5 inches within the center; 38.3 inches within the rear
One other common compact however capacious minivan is the Honda Odyssey. With a size of 205.2 inches, this car can be applicable for taller van lifers.
One drawback is that changing the Odyssey right into a camper requires eradicating a row of seats to create a stage sleeping platform. So, if you wish to convert your vehicle right into a camper for the weekend, it could take a while.
It’s additionally reliable and long-lasting, making upkeep easy and cost-effective. Its worth, nevertheless, doesn’t final lengthy. Select a used one.
12. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Mini Camper
- Worth: from $27,541 to $56,998
- Cargo Quantity: 140 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 22
- Exterior Size: 204 inches
- Exterior Top: 70–71 inches
- Exterior Width: 80 inches
- Inside Headroom: 40.1 inches
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is a substitute for the Honda Odyssey. It’s a 7-seater minivan with almost equal dimensions and a really comparable look. Consequently, it’s nice for covert tenting.
Many van lifers assemble their beds as giant as attainable and set up drawers beneath them so they could slide out in the direction of the again of the automotive to be able to maximize the area they’ve out there.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has the advantage of having two rows of seats that fold utterly flat into underfloor storage. This allows you to repeatedly drive the minivan dressed as a automotive.
Some assume it isn’t very reliable, although. Transmission strains which might be deteriorating trigger issues for some. Due to this fact, it’s essential that you’ve a used one examined by an professional earlier than buying it.
13. Kia Sedona Micro RV
- Worth: $16,000 – $43,000
- Cargo Quantity: 142 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 21
- Exterior Size: 201.4 inches
- Exterior Top: 68.5 inches
- Exterior Width: 89.3 inches
- Inside Headroom: 39.8 inches within the entrance; 39.4 inches within the second row; 38.9 inches within the third row
The Kia Sedona is the one low cost, enjoyable-to-drive minivan you want to take into account. As a result of the seats are simply eliminated, it’s extra inexpensive than high-end vans just like the Dodge Grand Caravan and fairly easy to transform. Like nearly all of minivans, the within headroom isn’t considerably greater than that of comparable, costlier autos.
A platform mattress, a small desk, and a transportable bathroom can all be positioned contained in the Kia Sedona. You might buy a equipment from Highway Loft, Freeway Camper Equipment, House On Wheels, or Compass Campers, or you may construct an easy conversion just like the one executed above by Hayley and Kevin.
14. Kia Carnival Mini Camper
- Worth: from $34,565, new
- Cargo Quantity: 145.1 cubic ft
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 22
- Exterior Size: 202.95 inches
- Exterior Top: 69.88 inches
- Exterior Width: 78.54 inches
- Inside Headroom: 40.9 inches within the entrance; 39.5 inches within the center; 38.6 inches within the rear
A multipurpose minivan with loads of inside room is the Kia Carnival. When totally loaded, it presents a snug experience and is easy to function. The again seats could also be readily eliminated and recline or fold down, supplying you with a number of conversion potentialities.
The brand new Kia Carnivals have a built-in parasol and a quiet inside, making it snug to sleep inside.
15. Toyota Rav4 Campervan
- Worth: from $28,275
- Cargo Quantity: 69.8 cubic ft with the seats folded
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 27
- Exterior Size: 180.9 inches
- Exterior Top: 67 inches
- Exterior Width: 73 inches
- Inside Headroom: 37.7 inches
Widespread SUV campers just like the Toyota Rav4 might be transformed into glorious minimalist campers for lone vacationers. Buying a 44 car will will let you journey nearly anyplace.
Put a sleeping platform within the again and simply take away the again seats. You’ll in all probability have to assemble an addition which you could flip over at night time by advancing the entrance passenger seat. It is possible for you to to maintain your tenting provides close by. The inside of a Rav4 doesn’t have a number of cargo room, so that you’ll in all probability have to complement your setup with a roof storage field.
16. Jeep Grand Cherokee Tiny Campervan
- Worth: from $40,000 new / from $3,000 used
- Cargo Quantity: 70.8 cubic ft with the seats folded
- Estimated Mixed MPG: 21
- Exterior Size: 189 inches
- Exterior Top: 68 inches
- Exterior Width: 77 inches
- Inside Headroom: 39.4 inches
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been round for a really very long time, so it’s a smart alternative when you’re seeking to purchase an affordable SUV to show right into a tiny camper. It’s not tough to search out new elements for this automotive, and nearly all of mechanics have already fastened one.
Though there isn’t a lot area inside, a platform mattress and a slide-out kitchen can simply match.
Extra Cars That Make Wonderful Small Camper Vans
There are a ton of autos out there which you could simply modify to change into the tiny camper of your goals. Since we had been unable to record all of them, we created an inventory to assist in your analysis.
These are them:
- Buick Enclave and Enivision
- BMW X3
- Cadillac SRX, XT5, XT6, Equinox, Blazer and Traverse
- Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
- Dodge Journey
- Ford Escape, Aerostar and Edge
- GMC Acadia, Terrain, Yukon and Yukon XL
- Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe PHEV, Tucson, Palisade and Ioniq 5
- Honda CRV and HRV
- Kia Sorento, Niro EV, Telluride, Seltos and Sportage
- Lexus RX and GX
- Lincoln MKX and Nautilus
- Mazda CX-5
- Nissan Murano, Rogue and Armada
- Subaru Crosstrek, Outback, Forester, Ascent and Solterra
- Tesla Mannequin X
- Toyota Highlander
- Volkswagen Touareg and Tiguan.
Kits for Small Campervan Conversion
After deciding on a mannequin, it’s time to contemplate your conversion. Buying a conversion equipment is probably the most handy and cheap alternative.
That is constructed from a number of modular items which might be manufactured in a manufacturing facility earlier than being despatched to you (or put in by the producers on the manufacturing facility). Then, with only a few instruments, you may mount them to your van. Your money and time will likely be saved when you select a conversion equipment.
Let’s study the companies that present conversion kits for minivans.
1. Roadloft – From $4,490 CAD
Kits for Small Campervan Conversion
After deciding on a mannequin, it’s time to contemplate your conversion. Buying a conversion equipment is probably the most handy and cheap alternative.
That is constructed from a number of modular items which might be manufactured in a manufacturing facility earlier than being despatched to you (or put in by the producers on the manufacturing facility). Then, with only a few instruments, you may mount them to your van. Your money and time will likely be saved when you select a conversion equipment.
Let’s study the companies that present conversion kits for minivans.
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Chrysler City and Nation
- Chrysler Pacifica and Grand Caravan
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Odyssey
- Kia Sedona
- Kia Carnival
- Ford Transit Join
- Nissan NV200
When ordering your equipment, you will need to specify the car you plan to put in it in. Based mostly on this, the employees at Roadloft will make a equipment in your automotive.
2. Wayfarer Vans – From $5,580
You selected a Ram Promaster Metropolis, proper? Ram Promasters might be reworked into campers by Wayfarer Vans. Their Wally equipment matches within the Promaster Metropolis excellent.
It’s a fairly progressive modular set consisting of plywood bins that when assembled, creates a platform for sleeping. A few of them perform as storage whenever you open them, whereas others change into kitchens. A folding desk can be included within the set.
3. Freeway Camper Equipment – From $1,249
One other Quebec-based professional in minivan and SUV conversions is Freeway Camper Equipment. They arrive with storage, a slide-out kitchen space for the camper’s again, and a dinette that may be transformed right into a mattress.
You might order your equipment with quite a lot of add-ons, together with a sink, a photo voltaic generator, a operating water system, a folding mattress, and extra.
They manufacture specific kits for these autos:
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Component
- Honda Odyssey
- LWB Ford Transit Join
- Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- Bounty Hunter Compact
Moreover, they produce six generic kits that can be utilized with different minivan sorts. These can match within the minivans which might be specified on the web page for every equipment.
You’re not fairly sure if you wish to buy certainly one of their kits. To try it out, lease one on a visit.
4. VanLab – From $4,750
The Ikea of camper conversion kits is VanLab. They supply your equipment in flat packing along with all of the set up instruments you’ll want and complete directions. They create two compact kits, one for the Chevy Metropolis Specific and the opposite for the Nissan NV200.
Each have a kitchen with a desk that may be folded out and two benches that may be transformed into beds. You’ll be able to complement this with an built-in electrical system. Order yours immediately for supply or, for an additional $850, have it put in in Simi Valley, California.
5. Egoe Nest – From $2,666
Egoe Nest, based mostly within the Czech Republic, manufactures conversion methods for autos and vans and has sellers everywhere in the world. There are three sizes out there for the Egoe Nest Field: small, medium, and big. They’ve a platform for sleeping in addition to a kitchen with room for a fridge.
6. Fifth Component Campers – From $4,995
The Asheville, North Carolina-based Fifth Component Campers are specialists in changing Honda Component autos.
There are not any long-term alterations made to the automotive in the course of the roughly 10-minute set up course of. A bench that converts right into a mattress, a cupboard with a pull-out desk, a console, and a kitchen with a aspect desk are all included in the usual bundle.
The whole bundle needn’t be bought, although. Merely choose the elements you need and place an order to have them despatched to you.
7. California Customized Vans – From $3,600
Go to California Customized Vans when you’re searching for a full customized equipment. With a purpose to produce a made-to-order DIY conversion equipment constructed from sustainable timber, they will work on a variety of tiny autos.
8. Path Kitchens – From $1,995
Aluminum stoves, chuck bins, tenting sinks, and transportable showers are all made by Path stoves. Most home equipment might be simply taken aside and utilized exterior. The Minivan Camper Kitchen supplies a roomy and helpful floor for cooking in the back of your van and is suitable with many minivan fashions.
9. Unicamp USA – From $4,000
You might acquire a cool skilled conversion from Unicamp USA you probably have a Kia Carnival that you simply need to convert right into a tiny camper. They’re specialists in changing Kia Carnivals into little RVs.
You’ll be able to select a fundamental equipment with a platform mattress and a slide-out kitchen in case your Carnival has sufficient room for it. You might construct a pop high when you’d choose to have a separate bed room. This can present a second mattress and provide you with extra headroom to alter or use the restroom inside the car.
Van conversion companies focusing on small vans
As increasingly people understand they don’t want a big automotive to hit the street and go on adventures, small camper vans are rising in recognition. Due to this, there at the moment are quite a few companies focusing on turning tiny vans into campers.
An expert conversion is right for you in case you are decided to transform your automotive right into a camper to make use of frequently and don’t thoughts ready. Deliver your van to the warehouse to select it up as a camper so you may go tenting the identical night time with out having to maneuver a finger.
1. Contravans
A number of van fashions, together with the Mercedes Metris, Nissan NV200, Ford Transit Join, and Ram Promaster Metropolis, are specifically transformed by Colorado-based Contravans. To suit a kitchen and dinette, they take advantage of the out there area in every van.
2. Paved to Pines
Though located in Canada, Paved to Pines additionally constructs campers for purchasers within the US. They’ll outfit your car, so it’s price contacting them to inquire. They work on Mercedes Metris and Transit Connects. Their conversions seem fashionable and welcoming.
3. Van Specialties
Whereas largely concentrating on Sprinters, Transits, and Ram Promasters, Van Specialities is located in Oregon and might convert virtually any automotive or truck, together with smaller vans and classic or traditional automobiles.
4. Ursa Minor
A camper manufacturing agency referred to as Ursa Minor has a second headquarters in Portland, Oregon, and is predicated in San Diego, California. The Honda Component and the LWB Ford Transit Join are transformed by the lads.
They’ll improve the tent with a pop-top sleeper, rack methods, USB ports, 60-watt photo voltaic panels, or 12V retailers and lighting. Each conversion comes with a mattress. You might both DIY the modification or purchase a conversion equipment so as to add a kitchen and dinette as a result of the cab will stay unaltered.
5. Oasis Campervans
Oasis Campervans is a Colorado-based firm that expertly converts a number of minivan sorts. These are rather less costly than these of the competitors as a result of they’re out there in common or premium bundles.
6. Peace Vans
Peace Vans, a Seattle, Washington-based firm, focuses on turning Mercedes Metris into pop-top campers. A Weekender with a platform mattress and a pop high is an possibility, as is a Full Camper with two beds and a kitchen.
7. GTRV
GTRV, an organization based mostly in California, turns Mercedes Metris, Toyota Sienna, and Nissan NV 200 into compact campers. In the event you like the best way their work appears, additionally they present customized work.
8. Keystone Coachworks
Do you want a Metris transformed? It’s best to look into Keystone Coachworks when you reside in or close to Oregon. They’re specialists at turning the Metris right into a miniature RV geared up with a pop-up roof, kitchen, electrical system, shore energy, and different options.
9. Cascade Campers
The Ram Promaster Metropolis is reworked by Cascade Campers right into a miniature RV with all of the facilities you require. On this little car, they will accommodate a bench mattress, an inside kitchen with a fridge, and storage cupboards. If all you need is the kitchen unit, you might buy the pod for $1,950 and do the set up your self. From California, they ship all of it all through the US.
10. Craft Autoworks
In Reno, Nevada, Craft Autoworks produces a comparable conversion for the Promaster Metropolis with a pop high. This offers you additional dwelling area at the back of the car as a result of you may make the most of the cargo space as a kitchen and lounge.
11. Recon Campers
By including a pop-top, electrical system, butane range, kitchen with fridge and sink, storage drawers, and different options, Recon Campers flip the Nissan NV 200 right into a full camper.
12. Caravan Outfitters
The lads at Caravan Outfitters flip the Ford Transit Join and Mercedes Metris into cellular residences. Since their diversifications are primarily constructed to order, you might develop your setup with a ton of kit. In Washington’s Edmonds, you may find them.
13. Apex Vans
Apex Vans, based mostly in Massachusetts, presents specialised conversion providers for Nissan NV 200 house owners. They’ve a kitchen with a sink and cooler, in addition to a platform mattress that unfolds right into a bench that measures 42 by 74 inches.
Cargo or passengers for small camper vans?
Nearly all of these small camper vans on the market can be found in both a cargo van or a passenger van kind. Which one you choose will rely on the campervan construct that you really want.
Benefits of proudly owning a compact camper van:
A compact camper van is a good possibility with plenty of advantages. Being small makes it cheap to function, easy to park, and pleasant to maneuver. Any Nationwide Park, ferry, or car parking zone with dimension restrictions may also be accessible to you.
You received’t look like a wild camper to most individuals as a result of minivans and cargo vans typically have a extremely discreet look. Moreover, your conversion doesn’t need to be elaborate or everlasting, permitting you to proceed utilizing your automotive for work. A smaller van is a good possibility when you don’t intend to reside in it full-time.
Cons of proudly owning a compact camper van:
- Though you would set up a pop-top, you’re unable to face up.
- Little or no area; you’ll need to prepare dinner exterior.
- A lot much less room in a campervan for what you’ll need
- You’ll be able to’t put an excessive amount of stuff in it.
- Not as highly effective an engine as bigger vans
- You’ll want to make use of the restroom within the wild.
- due to the unusual internal shapes, tough to take care of
Naturally, there are particular drawbacks to tiny camper vans. Attributable to its restricted dimension, you’ll in all probability have to prepare dinner and use the restroom exterior. You’ll have to sit or lie down to alter, except you don’t thoughts doing it within the open. Moreover, the engine isn’t as robust as these in bigger vans, so that you’ll have to preserve it gentle to maintain it operating correctly.
- unbelievable mileage
- inexpensive than bigger vans
- simpler to park and transfer round
- can occupy a traditional parking area and storage
- you should still put it to use as an everyday automotive regardless of its eerie look.
The inside of a small van is kind of curved, making it tough to transform it right into a camper. You’ll must be ingenious along with your DIY conversion or buy one which has already been created.
Design Concepts for a Small Camper Van Conversion You Can Do Your self
After all, you’ve the choice to do it your self. It’s a unbelievable technique to chop prices whereas creating the conversion of your goals. Fastidiously planning the ground format will likely be mandatory to maximise the usage of the inside area.
Based mostly on how you propose to make use of the small camper van, make an inventory of your priorities. Will the summer time be the key time you journey? Will you primarily camp exterior or near cities? You’ll be able to select which tools and options to prioritize in your design when you’ve laid out these parts.
Kitchen Layouts for Tiny Campers
You will have three main decisions for the galley: a slide-out drawer, a kitchen field, and a kitchen pod. A kitchen field or a slide-out drawer are glorious methods to maximise the area in your automotive when you intend to spend probably the most of your time outdoor throughout heat climate. As a substitute, select a compact cooking pod you may set up contained in the van so you may prepare dinner indoors regardless of the climate when you spend a number of time in chilly climates.
Design Concepts For Small Campers
The mattress is probably the most essential element of the development. Whereas cooking or stress-free, you might simply put up with some discomfort, however getting a great night time’s sleep is essential. A set platform mattress, a bench that slides out or folds, a dinette that converts right into a mattress, or a pop-top are all choices. To keep away from spending your entire time mendacity in mattress, it’s preferable to decide on a pop high, dinette, or bench when you want to spend a while inside your van. Hold issues easy with a platform mattress if, alternatively, you’re content material to journey within the van solely at night time.
Programs For Small Camper Vans’ Power
You may select to spend your cash on a transportable battery, reminiscent of a Jackery, as a compact van doesn’t have a lot room for photo voltaic panels and batteries. In the event you don’t have to devour a number of energy in your holidays, this will work rather well. It might safely cost each your telephone and a cooler. In the event you’re touring alone, you would positively set up one or two photo voltaic panels on the roof and convey one battery with you. However earlier than you buy groceries, take into account how a lot weight you’re including to your car.
Design Of A Rest room For A Mini Camper
Carrying a transportable bathroom is the one approach to match a restroom in a small van, after all. Make cautious to include this into your mattress’s design; the bathroom should slide out from beneath the platform. You may even assemble a drawer for it in order that it may be neatly saved away when not in use.
Inspiration for DIY little camper designs
Listed here are a few of our high home made tiny camper van modifications. Some are subtle and have a ton of important tools, whereas others are easy and haven’t any furnishings in any respect.
You’ll be able to construct a rig that may take you on pleasant adventures regardless of your assets or stage of experience.
1. Nissan NV 200 DIY small camper van
This Italian couple determined so as to add a sofa mattress and a kitchenette to their Nissan NV 200 since they regularly journey and require a heat, snug place to unwind.
2. DIY Mercedes Metris camper
When designing their Mercedes Metris, Marty and Spin went all out. They constructed a kitchenette that was related to the again doorways, together with a bench mattress with cupboards subsequent to it.
3. Ford Transit Join Full Camper
How cozy does this DIY makeover of a Ford Transit Join look? An exquisite little kitchen and an L-shaped sofa that may be transformed right into a mattress are additionally inside. We like how Evan, the proprietor, coated each wall in the home with attractive wooden.
4. No-tools Dodge Grand Caravan Camper
Don’t need to spend so much of time studying how one can make your individual furnishings and don’t have any instruments? This Dodge Grand Caravan conversion exhibits which you could nonetheless create a helpful DIY setup by packing your minivan along with your favourite items of kit.
5. No-build Chrysler Pacifica Campervan
To go tenting in your minivan, although, you don’t have to construct or set up something. See how Tristan simply stuffed all his tenting gear into his sister’s borrowed Chrysler Pacifica and turned it right into a weekender.
For a bit camper van conversion, some gear concepts
Are you ready to start organizing your individual conversion?
Listed here are some gear ideas to complete your camper, no matter whether or not you’re choosing a customized construct, conversion equipment, or DIY rig:
- Tenting range
- Water boiler
- Moveable bathroom
- Digital protected to cover within the storage
- Rechargeable battery financial institution
- Moveable photo voltaic equipment
- Cooler or fridge
- Small transportable energy financial institution
- USB lights
- USB followers
- Moveable camp or photo voltaic bathe
- Bluetooth speaker
- Tenting desk and chairs
- Moveable fairy lights
- Facet awning
- Roof field for additional storage
- Hand vacuum
- Moveable propane heater
- Water filter
- Moveable laundry wash bag
- Hammock(s)
- Moveable espresso grinder and Aeropress
- Hanging mesh pockets
- Packing cubes.
The Backside Line for Small Cargo Vans for Camper Conversion
There are a number of choices out there available on the market when you’re in search of for a tiny van to transform right into a DIY camper. Relying on the kind of campervan construct you need, you may determine between a cargo van and a passenger van.
Additionally take into account that you may convert your tiny cargo van right into a camper by buying a automotive tenting conversion equipment. Consequently, you received’t need to do the whole lot by your self!
The Mercedes Metris van is probably the most spacious inside, however it additionally prices between $26,000 and $34,000. On the other finish of the spectrum, the Nissan NV200 has the least quantity of storage room for a van development and is most inexpensive at $22,000 to $23,000. Then there are the well-known classic SUVs, such the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which begin at simply $4,000. You’ll be able to find the perfect car in your wants, it doesn’t matter what your funds is.
You’ll have to fastidiously evaluation the specs of every of those small camper vans to determine which is finest for you.
