Product Reviews Van Conversion Van Life

Is a van conversion worth it?

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October 13, 2023

Ever fancied hitting the open road with all your home comforts in tow? Welcome to the world of van conversions, a growing trend that’s capturing the hearts of adventurers and DIY enthusiasts alike. Van conversions offer a unique blend of freedom, creativity, and cost-effectiveness, transforming ordinary vans into bespoke mobile homes. But is it all just Instagram-worthy sunsets and cosy van interiors, or is there more to the story? In this article, we’ll delve into the nitty-gritty of van conversions, weighing up the pros and cons, exploring cost implications, and sharing real-life case studies.

What is a Van Conversion?

Understanding Van Conversion

Alright, let’s chat about van conversions, or as some folks call them, campervans. Picture this: a vehicle that’s not just for getting you from A to B, but also a cosy spot to kip for the night, whip up a cuppa, or even take a shower. It’s like your own little home on wheels, customised just how you like it. You’ve got your bed, a mini kitchen, and sometimes even a loo and shower. The kitchen’s usually kitted out with a fridge and a gas hob, and the bed can be anything from a simple mattress to a clever contraption that folds away to save space. Some vans even have a pop-up roof for extra room or storage. Pretty nifty, right?

 

History of Van Conversion

Now, van conversions aren’t a new fad. They’ve been around since the 1950s when Volkswagen got Westfalia to turn their Type 2 transporter into a campervan. That started a trend that’s been going strong ever since. More recently, there’s been a boom in DIY van conversions, with folks turning ordinary vans into unique mobile homes. It’s a cheaper alternative to buying a ready-made motorhome or getting a professional conversion, and you get to make it exactly how you want it.

 

Types of Van Conversions

So, there are three main types of van conversions: DIY conversions, professional conversions, and specific-purpose conversions. DIY conversions are where you roll up your sleeves and turn a standard van into a campervan yourself. You might even film the process or write a blog about it to help others do the same. Professional conversions are done by companies that specialise in transforming vans into fully kitted-out mobile homes. Then there are specific-purpose conversions, which are designed for a particular use, like off-road camping or luxury travel. These can be based on all sorts of vans, from small compact models to larger, more rugged vehicles.

Pros of Van Conversion

 

Cost Savings

Let’s talk brass tacks. One of the biggest perks of a van conversion is the potential for cost savings. Buying a ready-made camper van can set you back a pretty penny, but with a van conversion, you’re in control of the budget. You can start with a used van and upgrade it bit by bit, spreading the cost over time. Plus, you can save a bundle by doing the work yourself and hunting for bargain materials. It’s a bit like building your own house, but on a much smaller (and cheaper) scale.

 

Customisation

Another massive plus of a van conversion is the chance to make it uniquely yours. Fancy a pull-out kitchen for alfresco dining? No problem. Need extra storage for your surfboard? You got it. With a van conversion, you’re not stuck with a one-size-fits-all layout. You can design a space that fits your lifestyle like a glove. It’s all about creating a home on wheels that’s as unique as you are.

 

The DIY Experience

Doing a van conversion isn’t just about the end result. It’s also about the journey. You’ll learn a tonne of new skills along the way, from carpentry and electrics to problem-solving and project management. Plus, there’s a real sense of achievement in turning a plain old van into a cosy, functional living space with your own two hands. It’s not always easy, but it’s definitely rewarding.

Cons of Van Conversion

Time Investment

Now, let’s not beat around the bush. A van conversion is a big project, and it’s going to take a fair chunk of your time. From planning and sourcing materials to the actual build, it’s not something you can knock out in a weekend. If you’re juggling a full-time job or other commitments, it’s something to bear in mind.

 

Required Skills

While you’ll learn a lot doing a van conversion, it can be a steep learning curve. There’s a fair bit of technical know-how involved, from understanding vehicle mechanics to getting to grips with plumbing and electrics. If you’re not a natural DIYer, it can be a bit daunting. But don’t worry, there are plenty of resources out there to help you, including how-to videos and online forums.

 

Potential Mistakes

Lastly, there’s the risk of costly mistakes. Whether it’s buying the wrong materials, messing up measurements, or running into unexpected problems with the van itself, things can go wrong. It’s all part of the learning process, but it can add to the cost and time of the project. But remember, every mistake is a chance to learn and improve for the next time.

Comparing DIY Conversion vs. Hiring a Conversion Company

Pros and Cons of DIY Conversion

So, you’re thinking about doing a DIY van conversion? Good on ya! There’s a lot to love about going the DIY route. For starters, you get to call the shots. You can design your van exactly how you want it, down to the last detail. Plus, it’s usually cheaper than hiring a professional company. And let’s not forget the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. It’s a proper adventure!

 

But, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. DIY conversions can be time-consuming, especially if you’re learning as you go. And there’s always the risk of making mistakes that could cost you in the long run. Plus, you’ll need a decent set of tools and a place to do the work.

 

Pros and Cons of Hiring a Conversion Company

If DIY isn’t your cup of tea, you might be considering hiring a professional conversion company. The big advantage here is that you’re getting a team of experts to do the work. They’ve got the skills, the tools, and the experience to get the job done efficiently. Plus, they can offer advice on the best layout and materials for your needs.

 

But, it comes with a heftier price tag. And while you can give input on the design, you won’t have the same level of control as with a DIY conversion. Plus, you’ll miss out on the fun (and the challenges) of doing it yourself.

 

Cost Comparison

When it comes to cost, DIY conversions usually come out on top. You can save a bundle by doing the work yourself and sourcing second-hand or discounted materials. But remember, your time is also valuable, and DIY conversions can take a lot of it.

 

Hiring a professional company is more expensive upfront. But, you’re paying for their expertise and efficiency, and you might save money in the long run by avoiding costly mistakes. Plus, some companies offer finance options, so you can spread the cost over time.

 

In the end, the best choice depends on your budget, your skills, and how you want to spend your time. Both options have their pros and cons, so weigh them up and choose the one that suits you best.

Cost Analysis of Van Conversion

Costs of DIY Conversion

Alright, let’s talk numbers, mate. If you’re thinking of doing a DIY conversion, you’re probably wondering how much it’s going to set you back. Now, I’ve done a bit of digging around and found that the cost can vary quite a bit. But on average, you’re looking at somewhere between £5,000 and £10,000 for a high spec van conversion. This includes all the basics like insulation, flooring, a bed, kitchen, and electrical setup. Keep in mind, this is just for the conversion materials and doesn’t include the cost of the van itself or any fancy extras.

 

Costs of Professional Conversion

Now, if you’re thinking of hiring a professional conversion company, you’re going to be looking at a higher price tag. Most commission builds will cost upwards of £20,000 for a full conversion. This is because you’re not just paying for materials, but also for the labour and expertise of the conversion company. And let’s not forget, these guys will probably throw in a few extra bells and whistles that you might not have thought of.

 

Hidden Costs

Now, whether you’re going DIY or hiring a pro, there are always going to be a few hidden costs that can sneak up on you. For example, you might need to install extra windows in your van, which could cost you £200-300 per window. And don’t forget about insulation – it’s an absolute must for keeping your van cosy and it’s going to add to your overall cost. Plus, there’s always the chance of unexpected issues popping up that need fixing, especially if you’re working with an older van. So, it’s always a good idea to have a bit of a buffer in your budget for these hidden costs.

 

Remember, whether you choose DIY or professional conversion, the most important thing is to create a van that feels like home and suits your lifestyle. After all, van life is all about freedom and adventure, innit?

Case Studies of Successful Van Conversions

DIY Van Conversion Case Studies

Let’s take a look at a couple of real-life examples of DIY van conversions. First up, we have Tressie Word, an engineer from Portland, Oregon. Tressie converted her 2015 Ford Transit into a solar-powered home on wheels, complete with a cooler-sized refrigerator, fan, recessed lights, movie projector, and an electric blanket. She did all the work herself, from drilling holes in the van roof to attach solar panels to choosing all the components needed. The total cost of her solar array was about £2,500, and it took her two days to install everything and ensure it worked properly. You can read more about her journey here.

 

Next, we have Eric Yu and Yuko Shimokawa, a couple who embarked on a road trip from Canada to Argentina in their solar-powered van. Despite having zero DIY abilities to start with, they learned woodworking, electrical work, and plumbing to create their home on wheels. Their solar installation was more expensive than Tressie’s, costing almost £4,300, but they were able to travel the world without leaving their home. You can read more about their adventure on their blog, Asobo Life.

 

Professional Van Conversion Case Studies

For those who prefer to leave the work to the professionals, there are plenty of examples of successful professional van conversions. Borders Campervan Conversions, a UK-based company, has a number of case studies on their website, showcasing the variety of conversions they’ve completed. From compact campers to luxury motorhomes, they’ve done it all. You can check out their work here.

 

Lessons Learned

From these case studies, it’s clear that whether you choose to go the DIY route or hire a professional, a van conversion can be a rewarding project. It allows for a level of customization and personalization that you just can’t get with a factory-made camper van. However, it’s also clear that a van conversion, whether DIY or professional, requires a significant investment of time, money, and effort. It’s not a decision to be taken lightly, but for those who are up for the challenge, the end result can be a unique and comfortable home on wheels.

Conclusion

So, is a van conversion worth it? Well, it’s a bit like asking how long is a piece of string. It all depends on your personal circumstances, your budget, and how much time and effort you’re willing to put in. If you’re after a unique, personalised space that you can call home, and you’re not afraid of a bit of hard graft, then a DIY conversion could be just the ticket. On the other hand, if you’d rather leave it to the pros, a professional conversion can give you a top-notch finish without the sweat and tears. Either way, there’s no denying that van life has its perks. So why not give it a go?

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WILLS VAN ADVENTURES
UK

Hi I'm Will from the UK. Follow me as I build & modify Vans whilst creating videos about the trips I take in the vans. I don't really specialise in any manufacture of van, neither am I professionally trained, just a regular guy winging it as I go along adding my own personal touch.I hope my content brings a smile to your face and maybe inspires you to get on the conversions yourself. Please consider subscribing to help support my channels!

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