Last Updated on January 26, 2026
You’re about to explore 25 camper van conversion ideas that help you turn any van into a comfy, useful home on wheels. These ideas show practical ways to save space, stay organized, and make your van feel like your own, whether you want simple upgrades or a full DIY build.
You’ll find options for sleeping, cooking, storage, power, and comfort that fit many budgets and skill levels. Skim through to find ideas that match your needs and spark new plans for your next trip.
1) Custom plywood bed frame with storage drawers
A plywood bed frame gives you a strong, lightweight base that fits your van’s shape. You can build it to mattress size, leaving room for deep drawers underneath for clothes, tools, or kitchen gear.
Drawers make gear access simple and keep the floor clear. Slide hardware or even DIY cutouts work well; just label compartments so you find things fast.
Plywood is easy to cut and finish with paint or sealant to resist moisture. Use quality screws, glue, and corner bracing so the frame stays solid on bumpy roads.
PRO TIP
Measure twice and plan drawer heights around your mattress thickness. This saves space and prevents surprises when you install the mattress.
2) Swivel captain’s chair for extra seating
Swivel captain’s chairs turn your driver or passenger seat to face the living area. They add flexible seating without losing floor space or needing a separate bench.
You can rotate the seat 180 degrees to dine, work, or socialize. This makes your cab part of the living room and gives you more usable space in a small van.
Choose DOT-approved swivel kits and seats made for your van model. Proper fit keeps the seat safe and stable while you drive or sit.
PRO TIP
Pick a swivel that locks firmly in both forward and rotated positions. Add a simple cushion and armrest to boost comfort for long chats or meals.
3) Fold-out table mounted on the wall
A wall-mounted fold-out table frees up floor space and gives you a flat surface when you need it. You fold it down for meals, work, or cooking prep, then fold it back against the wall to keep the van roomy.
Choose a strong hinge and a simple latch so the table locks flat when stowed and stays steady when open. Use lightweight plywood or an aluminum top to balance strength and weight.
Mount the table at a height that works for sitting and standing tasks. Add a small shelf or cup holder nearby to keep essentials within reach while you use the table.
PRO TIP
Install a small support leg or a folding bracket to reduce wobble. A removable leg makes cleaning easier and keeps the look neat.
4) DIY insulated window covers
Insulated window covers keep your van cooler in summer and warmer in winter. You can make them cheaply with Reflectix, foam board, or layered fabric for good thermal and light control.
Most DIY covers use magnets or Velcro to attach to the metal frame. That makes them easy to install, remove, and store when not in use.
Cut each cover to match your window shape for a tight fit and better insulation. Add a layer of blackout fabric if you want total darkness for sleep and privacy.
PRO TIP
Use small, strong magnets sewn into the edge or glued to a strip so the covers snap on cleanly. Store them flat or rolled to avoid creases that reduce insulating power.
5) Solar panel roof setup
Mounting solar panels on your roof gives your van reliable off-grid power. Pick panels that fit your roof shape and weight limits, and decide between rigid or flexible panels based on budget and durability.
You’ll need a charge controller, battery bank, and inverter sized for your gear. Plan wiring runs to avoid leaks and keep cables tidy with proper grommets and conduit.
Place panels where they get the most sun and avoid shading from vents or racks. Tilt mounts help in winter or high-latitude travel but add wind risk and complexity.
PRO TIP
Run a simple power budget first. Match panel output to daily energy use so your system meets real needs without wasted cost.
6) Compact composting toilet
A compact composting toilet saves space and cuts waste when you convert your van. It uses little water and can fit inside a small bathroom pod or a cabinet, which helps keep your layout flexible.
You control odors with proper ventilation and dry material like coconut coir or sawdust. Maintenance is simple: empty the solids container less often than a cassette toilet and add cover material after use.
Choose a model with a sealed urine diverter and a tight lid to reduce smell and splashes. Place it near an air vent or install a small fan to keep airflow moving.
PRO TIP
Keep a small bucket of cover material and a scoop by the toilet for easy, tidy use.
7) Under-bed water tank with pump
Placing a water tank under your bed saves space and keeps weight low and central. You get a tidy storage area while keeping fresh water out of the way.
A small 12V pump can run your sink, shower, or outdoor tap. Pumps are easy to wire to your leisure battery and usually include a pressure switch for steady flow.
Mount the tank on a solid, flat surface and secure it with straps or a frame. Use food-grade hose and check fittings for leaks before you finish the build.
PRO TIP
Fit an access hatch in the bed base so you can service the pump and reach the tank easily. Consider a pump with a built-in filter to protect valves and fixtures.
8) Magnetic spice racks
Magnetic spice racks save space and keep things within reach in a small van kitchen. You attach magnetic tins or jars to a metal strip under cabinets or on a fridge, so spices stay visible and tidy.
They work well on any flat metal surface and cost little. You can group spices by use—cooking, baking, or quick-access seasonings—to make meal prep faster.
Choose clear lids or label the bottoms so you can read names at a glance. If your walls aren’t magnetic, stick a thin metal plate where you want the rack.
PRO TIP
Use strong neodymium magnets and a silicone seal on lids to prevent spills while driving.
9) Pull-out kitchen drawer with stove
A pull-out kitchen drawer gives you a full cooking surface without eating up interior space. You slide it out, cook, then slide it back in to keep the van tidy and clear for daytime living.
You can fit a single or double-burner stove, a small sink, and storage in one unit. Many designs use heavy-duty drawer slides so the unit feels stable while you cook.
Think about ventilation and splash protection when cooking indoors. Plan for easy access to fuel lines, a waste-water container, and a secure latch to keep the drawer locked while driving.
PRO TIP
Mount a windscreen or removable splash guard and keep a fire extinguisher nearby. Choose lockable slides rated for the weight of your full setup to avoid surprises on bumpy roads.
10) Overhead net storage above bed
An overhead net gives you quick, visible storage for light items like clothes, books, and small gear. It keeps things off the bed and within arm’s reach, so you won’t need to hunt for your phone or glasses at night.
Install the net low enough to reach from the bed but high enough to sit up comfortably. Use strong anchor points and check load limits; nets are best for soft, lightweight items rather than heavy tools.
Choose mesh with a tight weave to stop small items from slipping through. You can make a custom size or buy ready-made nets; both are affordable and simple to fit.
PRO TIP
Add elastic edging or a zipper pocket to the net to secure fragile items during drives.
11) Fold-down Murphy bed design
A fold-down Murphy bed saves a lot of floor space in a small van. You fold it up during the day and drop it down at night, so your living area can do double duty.
You can build it with wood or lightweight aluminum framing. Use gas springs or simple spring-loaded hinges to make lifting and lowering easy and safe.
Position storage under the bed for bikes, gear, or drawers you can access with the bed up. Secure the mattress and fastenment points so nothing shifts while driving.
H3 PRO TIP
Mount a reliable latch and soft-close hardware to stop the bed from rattling. Measure the mattress and van interior carefully before building to avoid fit problems.
12) Velcro curtains for privacy
Velcro curtains give you quick, secure privacy without permanent hardware. You stick Velcro strips to the window frame and curtain edge, then press the fabric into place when you need cover. They hold well while driving and come down in seconds for airflow or views.
You can use heavy fabric, canvas drop cloths, or repurposed sheets. No-sew options like fabric glue or iron-on hem tape work if you don’t want to sew. Velcro also lets you add a bottom strip so curtains stay put in wind.
PRO TIP
Measure twice and place the hook-side Velcro on a flat surface for best hold. If your windows are rounded, use multiple short Velcro pieces spaced evenly to keep the curtain snug.
13) LED strip lighting with dimmer
LED strips give you flexible, low-power light that fits tight spaces. You can run them under cabinets, along ceiling edges, or behind storage to add soft, even glow without bulky fixtures.
Add a dimmer so you control brightness for tasks or mood. Bright for cooking or reading; low and warm for relaxing or sleeping.
Choose 12V strips made for vehicle use and a dimmer rated for that voltage. Hardwire into your van’s 12V circuit or use a plug-in controller for an easier install.
PRO TIP
Mount strips with strong adhesive or aluminum channels to keep them flat and cool. Pick warm white (2700–3000K) for cozy light, and add color strips only if you want accent lighting.
14) Sliding pantry shelves
Sliding pantry shelves make it easy for you to reach items stored deep in narrow cabinets. They pull out smoothly so you can see everything at a glance, which saves time and cuts down on spills and rummaging.
You can build them from plywood and drawer slides or buy pre-made units that fit common van cabinet sizes. Choose full-extension slides for better access, and add low lips or bungee straps to keep jars and cans from rolling while you drive.
PRO TIP
Measure the cabinet opening and test slide clearance before you cut or buy materials. A small gap can ruin a fit, but slight adjustments are easy and cheap to fix.
15) Roof vent fan for airflow
A roof vent fan keeps air moving through your van so heat, moisture, and cooking smells don’t build up. You’ll sleep better and protect woodwork and fabrics from damp when you run the fan while you cook or sleep.
Pick a fan with enough airflow for your van size and a low noise level so it won’t bother you at night. Many fans offer reversible airflow to pull air in or push it out, which helps with cross-ventilation when paired with a window or side vent.
PRO TIP
Install the fan near the center of your living area and seal the cut well to avoid leaks. Add a simple rain cover or choose a model with one to keep rain out while you run the fan.
16) Foldable bike rack mounted externally
A foldable external bike rack keeps bikes off your interior floor and saves valuable living space. You can mount it on the rear door or bumper, and fold it flat when not in use to keep clearance low.
Choose a rack rated for your bike weight and check fit with your door type and spare tire if you have one. Look for models that lock the bikes and the rack to deter theft.
Folding racks free up interior room for gear and guests. They also let you carry e-bikes or fat-tire bikes without reworking your van layout.
PRO TIP
Measure door swing and clearance before buying. Test the folded position to make sure it won’t hit low garages or block your rear camera.
17) Hidden electrical panel behind cabinet
Tuck your electrical panel behind a cabinet door to keep things tidy and safe. You get easy access when you need it, and the controls stay out of sight the rest of the time.
Choose a cabinet with a removable panel or a hinged door that swings wide. Leave enough space for wiring, breakers, and ventilation so components stay cool and you can work without strain.
Label every breaker and use clear routing for wires to avoid confusion later. Install a simple catch or magnet to hold the door closed while driving.
PRO TIP
Mount the panel at a height you can reach while standing. That saves you from kneeling or stretching during checks and makes maintenance quicker.
18) Foldable sink cover doubling as cutting board
A foldable sink cover that doubles as a cutting board gives you more counter space when you need it. You place it over your sink to prepare food, then fold or remove it to access the basin. This saves space and keeps your work area tidy.
Look for durable materials like bamboo, hardwood, or food-safe plastic that resist water and knife marks. Some models have adjustable feet or non-slip pads so the board stays put while you chop. Others fold or collapse for compact storage.
You can also use covers with built-in strainers or soap dispensers to cut down on loose gear. They work well in tiny kitchens where every inch counts.
PRO TIP
Measure your sink before buying so the cover fits snugly and stays stable during use.
19) Cork bulletin board for notes
A cork bulletin board gives your van a simple place to keep important papers, maps, and reminders within reach. You can pin itineraries, checklists, or receipts so you don’t lose them while on the road.
Choose a slim, lightweight board and mount it near your workspace or entry so it’s easy to grab. A framed board looks neat and keeps pins from falling out during travel.
You can cut cork to fit odd spaces or use a roll of cork to cover a cabinet door. Add small labeled sections for groceries, maintenance, and trip ideas to keep things tidy.
PRO TIP
Use flat push-pins or adhesive cork tiles to avoid rattling. Store extra notes in a pocket behind the board for safekeeping.
20) Elevated bed with gear storage underneath
An elevated bed gives you a full sleeping area while freeing up a large storage zone below. You can stash bikes, coolers, camping gear, or daily items out of sight but still within reach.
Build the platform high enough for tall items or create drawers and cubbies for organized storage. A solid frame makes the bed sturdy and adds mounting points for straps or locks to secure gear while driving.
Leave space for ventilation and easy access to electrical panels or plumbing. Use lightweight plywood and strong joinery to keep weight down without sacrificing strength.
PRO TIP
Measure your tallest gear before you set the bed height so nothing gets left behind or forces a rebuild.
21) Custom-fit foam mattress topper
A custom-fit foam mattress topper lets you match your bed to your van’s odd shapes and tight spaces. You can cut it to fit nooks, curves, or a sideways sleeping layout so every inch of the platform gets used.
Choose foam density for the right balance of support and cushion. Thinner high-density foam can save headroom while still feeling comfortable, and thicker layers add plushness if you have the space.
You can buy pre-cut toppers or cut a full sheet with a simple tool. Mark the shape first, then trim slowly for a neat fit and test overnight before finalizing.
PRO TIP
Use a washable, breathable cover to protect the foam from moisture and make cleaning easy.
22) Portable induction cooktop
A portable induction cooktop saves space and cuts cooking time in your van. It heats fast and gives precise temperature control, so you waste less power and cook more efficiently.
You can cook inside or take it outside on warm days. Most models are lightweight and pack away flat, which fits tight storage spots.
Power use matters in a van. Check wattage and match it to your inverter or battery setup so you don’t trip breakers or drain your batteries too fast.
PRO TIP
Choose a model with adjustable power settings and a sturdy magnet-compatible pan. That combo keeps meals easy and safe while on the road.
23) Collapsible outdoor shower setup
A collapsible outdoor shower gives you a simple way to rinse off without using valuable van space. You pack a lightweight frame, a foldable privacy tent, and a shower bag or pump system that hooks to your water line.
You set it up in minutes at a campsite or trailhead. It keeps mud and sand out of your van and works great after long hikes, beach days, or for washing gear.
PRO TIP
Choose materials that dry fast and resist mildew. A solar-heated shower bag or small 12V pump will let you enjoy warm water without complex plumbing.
24) Repurposed wine crate storage units
Wine crates make smart, low-cost storage for your van. You can stack them for shelves, mount them on walls, or use them as pull-out drawers under a bed.
They add character without heavy weight. Sand and seal the wood to avoid splinters and moisture damage.
Use different sizes to fit shoes, kitchen gear, or books. Label the fronts so you find things quickly while on the road.
PRO TIP
Fasten crates with simple brackets or carriage bolts so they stay put when driving. A bit of paint or stain ties them into your van’s style.
25) Blackout curtains with thermal lining
Blackout curtains with thermal lining keep your van dark and more comfortable. They block light for better sleep and add insulation to reduce heat loss or gain.
You can buy ready-made thermal curtains or make your own with blackout fabric and a foil or foam layer. Use tension rods, Velcro, or magnetic strips so installation stays simple and reversible.
Thermal blackout curtains also help with privacy and noise reduction. They fit any window shape when tailored, so measure carefully and cut panels slightly oversized for full coverage.
PRO TIP
Line curtains with reflective bubble insulation for extra thermal performance without much weight.
