In 2021, my girlfriend and I bit the bullet and bought a van to convert into a camper. We decided it was the right time as international travel was still restricted due to the Covid-19 pandemic and it would be a good chance to explore more of the UK. We both had fairly limited DIY skills, but thanks to many in-depth YouTube videos, as well as power tools borrowed from my dad, we felt confident taking on the huge task. We chose to name the van Vincent van Go, or Vinny for short.
As we had a small area to work with, we had to be economical with the space. Our design allowed for a large bed, which in the day time converts into a a seating area with table. In the kitchen we managed to fit a gas hob, sink and a slide out for our fridge. There are 2 drawers for cutlery, plates etc. and in the cupboards we have a gas locker, water bottles and even a bin. There’s also plenty of storage under each of the benches.
We did the electrics all ourselves, with the leisure battery under the driver seat, and the majority of the components in the passenger seat storage. We wired the fridge, water pump, 4 LED lights, 2 roof vents and USB ports. It can also be powered by mains when at a campsite.
Below is an animation of the 3D model, showing the conversion process from day mode into night mode.