Campervan Conversions: 6 Things to Consider Before You Begin

Monday 19th December 2022

There's a lot to consider when embarking on your first camper conversion and there are many factors that contribute to these decisions. With the growing popularity of converting vans into a functional and portable home, there is endless amount of information on how to achieve a successful build, but it's hard to know where to begin or what's involved.

Outside of the usual list of considerations that you've likely come across, we've asked the One Five Two team what they think you should think about when designing your own tiny home on wheels.

1. Begin a Budget

Before diving into the finer details and blue-sky thinking, consider how much you are willing and aiming to spend on your ultimate road-trip vehicle. As your project evolves, you'll want to revisit this number and update it as you consider different fixtures and features.

Our transparent packages for campervan conversions help customers make concise, clear budgets with a realistic of what will be achieved.

2. Where Are You Travelling? With Whom?

No doubt you're excited to go on your first adventure with your campervan, but what does that look like for you and your family and friends who may join you? You'll want to consider how often you'll be using your vehicle and if you're planning to become a full-time vanlifer or use it as a part-time travel vehicle.

Picking the correct vans for your individual needs is extremely important and should take into account if you'll want to get off the beaten path, if you'll be chasing warm or cold climates, and if anyone will be with you within the campervan.

3. Must-Have vs Nice-to-Have

You'll only need to scroll on Instagram for a few minutes to be inspired and have a wish-list as long as your arm for your own campervan conversion! Evaluate your own needs and narrow down your must-haves and your nice-to-haves. You'll need to decide how many of the usual home-comforts you'll be wanting to bring on the road with you or if you'll be able to survive on the bare necessities whilst living off-grid.

As you explore your list, ensure to update your budget with an estimate of how much items may cost. By keeping your budget in mind every step of the way, you may find that some items move from a must-have to a nice-to-have!

4. Don't Forget Storage!

Good storage will make the world of difference once you're out on the road. Whilst you're designing your dream campervan think about multi-functional furnishings, i.e., seats and beds that can double-up as storage, pegs on the walls to hang-up items, and overhead cabinets for clothing. Less clutter means less stress and more time to enjoy your van life.

5. Ventilation

Unfortunately, living and breathing in such a small space is a recipe for damp! To avoid it, you'll need to ensure that your campervan design allows a clear route for air to flow around. Condensation will form when hot air hits a cold surface, so ensure that all exposed metal is covered and areas around doors are covered in auto carpet.

When planning the layout of your new home-on-wheels, consider how ventilation will work. You may choose to install windows, a skylight that can open, a roof vent, or a fan.

6. How Much Does Your Van Weigh?

This is a commonly overlooked facet of campervan conversion that can quickly get out of control if not maintained. Here in the UK, it's illegal to drive your vehicle over its weight limit. You don't want to spend your hard-earned cash and your precious time on a project you can't use, so ensure that you regularly weigh your van on a weighbridge. Track your progress throughout the project and remember that a lighter vehicle will be more fuel efficient.

You Can't Rush Perfection!

A rushed campervan is never a functional nor pretty one! If you try to push the project over capacity then you'll likely end up disappointed and frustrated, which ultimately, takes the fun from the build to the first road trip. Put together different plans to see what fits best, research how others have tackled problems, and be inspired by the community.

At One Five Two, we're just as passionate as you are about your new campervan conversion and will help you make it the best it can possibly be and fit your individual wants and needs.