It doesn’t take but a quick trip to your local RV dealer to see the astronomical prices on some new small motorhomes. You know, the Mercedes Sprinter-based designs that cost north of $100,000.
They may have leather seats and LED-lighted countertops, but if you don’t need (or want) that sort of luxury, try a converted cargo van.
While not quite as small as this mini RV, a cargo van camper provides the right amount of space for a certain type of RVer.
If you’re not planning on full time RVing, and just want a fun weekend camper to take to festivals or the local campground, making your own van camper will save you a ton of money.
We found this cute and well-thought-out van camper build on Tiny Camper’s Blog. The author said her sister, Gail, built the small motorhome after converting a cargo van she found on craigslist.
Some of Gail’s requirements for her small motorhome:
- overnight-capable without hookups (no need for a three way refrigerator or permanent bathroom)
- no big batteries needed (not a full time RV)
- must be able to stand inside
- newer engine with good gas mileage
Some of the changes Gail made after purhcasing the van include:
- adding new flooring with styrofoam insulation, a plywood subfloor, and a sheet of high grade vinyl
- Reflectix insulation on the inside of walls and ceiling
- custom-built beds from 1×1 and 2×2 lumber
While she didn’t make a step-by-step tutorial, you’ll learn a lot about converting a cargo van into an RV at her website…
