Building A Camper: A Step-By-Step Guide

how is a camper build

Building a camper is a fun and challenging project that can revolutionize your camping experience. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking a cost-effective way to explore the great outdoors, constructing your own camper offers a range of benefits. From glamping in comfort to embracing off-grid adventures, building your own camper trailer is a rewarding endeavour.

Before embarking on this project, it's essential to consider your budget, desired features, and timeframe. Additionally, researching existing campers on the market can provide valuable insights into design ideas and must-have amenities. The construction process involves deconstructing and reconditioning a trailer frame, building a sturdy deck and wheel wells, and carefully planning electrical and plumbing systems.

With dedication and creativity, you can craft a personalized camping trailer that elevates your outdoor adventures. So, get ready to hit the road and explore new destinations with the comforts of your own DIY camper!

Characteristics Values
Budget $2,000-$20,000
Van Type Sprinter, Ram Promaster, Ford Transit
Insulation Thinsulate, Low-E Thermal Break, Radiant Barrier
Flooring Cork, Vinyl, Hardwood
Walls & Ceiling Tongue & Groove Planks, Plywood, Hardboard Sheets
Solar & Electricity Battle Born Batteries, Redarc Manager30 Controller
Water System Geyser, Filtration System, 2 x 7-gallon Reliance Jumbotainers
Gas LPG Canister, Chinese Diesel Heater

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Choosing a van

Type of Van

The first decision you need to make is the type of van you want to convert. There are two main options: a self-propelled vehicle or a trailer. A self-propelled vehicle, often referred to as a campervan, motorhome, or RV, provides both transportation and sleeping accommodation. On the other hand, a trailer is towed by a separate vehicle and can be detached when not in use.

Size and Weight

Consider the size and weight of the van, as this will impact its manoeuvrability and fuel efficiency. Class A RVs, for example, are the largest and heaviest option, offering ample space but limited fuel efficiency and manoeuvrability. Class B and Class C RVs are smaller and more compact, making them a more flexible choice. Additionally, think about the number of people you plan to accommodate and the level of comfort you desire.

Budget

Vans can vary significantly in price, so it's important to set a realistic budget before making a purchase. Consider not only the cost of the van itself but also any modifications or additions you plan to make. If you're on a tighter budget, you may want to consider a used van or a smaller model.

Amenities and Features

Think about the amenities and features you want in your camper. Do you need a kitchen, bathroom, or sleeping quarters? Would you like to include modern conveniences such as air conditioning, water heaters, or entertainment systems? Make a list of must-have features and nice-to-have additions to help guide your decision.

Vehicle Compatibility

If you opt for a trailer, ensure that your vehicle is compatible and has the necessary towing capacity. Pay attention to factors such as the towing mechanism, weight limits, and the type of trailer connection. If you plan to tow a camper, ensure your vehicle has the necessary power and stability to handle the additional weight.

Customisation Options

Consider the level of customisation you want to undertake. Some vans may come with pre-installed features or fittings, while others may require extensive modifications. If you're planning a DIY conversion, look for vans with customisable interiors and ample space for your desired layout.

Legal and Safety Requirements

Research the legal and safety requirements for converting a van into a camper. Ensure the van you choose complies with regulations regarding dimensions, lighting, brakes, axles, tires, and weight limits. Check with your local authorities to understand the specific requirements and guidelines for campervan conversions.

Taking the time to carefully consider these factors will help you choose the right van for your camper build, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable mobile home for your future adventures.

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Designing the layout

When designing the layout of your camper, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide on the overall look you want to achieve. Do you prefer a vintage or modern aesthetic? Researching existing camper designs can provide valuable inspiration and help you determine which features are essential and which you can forgo. Consider the amenities you require, such as a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping area, and storage. Prioritize these features based on importance, as this will influence your layout and budget.

Another crucial aspect is determining the type of vehicle you'll be using to transport your camper. If you have a small car or motorbike, a teardrop-shaped camper is an excellent choice due to its compact size and ease of transportation. For those with larger vehicles or trucks, you have the flexibility to explore different options, such as a tent camper box or a vehicle-trailer hybrid. Consider the amount of space you want and any specific features you wish to include.

When designing the layout, it's important to allocate sufficient space for each area, ensuring a comfortable and functional arrangement. Think about the placement of windows and doors, as well as the flow of movement within the camper. Consider the number of people who will typically use the camper and design the layout to accommodate their needs, including privacy and storage requirements.

Additionally, if you plan to include amenities like a kitchen or bathroom, factor in the necessary plumbing and electrical systems. Decide whether you want to incorporate innovative features, such as expandable spaces or awnings, and ensure you have the necessary mechanisms and structural support. Remember to comply with legal requirements and regulations regarding lighting, brakes, axles, tires, and weight.

Lastly, consider the timeframe and budget for your project. Building a camper can be time-consuming and expensive, so set realistic expectations and try to stick to your timeline and budget as closely as possible. Building your own camper allows you to personalize your camping experience, so take the time to design a layout that suits your specific needs and preferences.

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Buying materials

When it comes to buying materials for your camper van conversion, there are a few different routes you can take. The first is to head to your local hardware store, where you will be able to find a huge percentage of the necessary tools and materials at stores like Home Depot, RONA, and Lowe's. However, there are also some materials that you may want to consider that you won't be able to find at the hardware store.

Many of the products used in professional van builds are inspired by other industries such as boating or yachting. Fabrics, flooring, hardware, and electronics cross over well from the marine world into the van life world. For example, when it comes to flooring, most DIY van builders will use either traditional laminate or plank vinyl flooring. However, if you're looking for something more durable, marine-grade sheet vinyl flooring is a better option as it is designed to withstand increased foot traffic and changing temperatures. You can often find this at local companies that sell marine supplies.

Another option for buying materials is to look for stores that cater specifically to van builders and van lifers, such as Vanlife Outfitters. These stores will carry unique products that aren't readily available elsewhere, as well as the best appliances and components used on their own vans. They may also offer discounts when you bundle products.

In addition, there are many online resources and communities that can provide guidance and advice on where to buy materials for your van conversion. For example, Gnomad Home has an extensive guide on their website that covers everything from choosing a vehicle for your conversion to installing a water system. They also provide specific product recommendations with links to where you can purchase them.

Overall, there are a variety of options for buying materials for your camper van conversion. You can find many of the necessary tools and materials at your local hardware store, but for more specialized items, you may need to look online or at stores that cater specifically to van builders and van lifers.

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Stripping and cutting

Once the van is stripped, the next step is to cut and fit the new components. This includes measuring and cutting the materials to size, such as plywood for the flooring and walls, and insulating materials such as Reflectix. It is important to take accurate measurements and cut the materials carefully to ensure a snug fit and maximise space utilisation.

In addition to the flooring and walls, the ceiling and roof may also need to be modified. This could involve cutting and installing insulation, as well as panelling or other finishing materials. It is important to ensure that any modifications to the roof do not compromise its structural integrity and that all cuts and installations are properly sealed to prevent leaks.

The stripping and cutting process is labour-intensive and requires careful planning and execution. It is important to have a clear idea of the layout and design of the camper van before beginning this process to ensure that all the necessary components can be accommodated and that there is enough space for living and storage.

During the stripping and cutting process, it is also important to consider the weight of the new components and ensure that the vehicle can handle the additional weight. This is particularly important for larger components such as beds, kitchen units, and storage solutions.

Overall, the stripping and cutting process is a crucial step in the camper van conversion process, requiring careful planning, accurate measurements, and attention to detail to ensure a successful build.

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Insulation

Insulating your campervan is an important step in the conversion process. In the winter, insulation will help retain heat inside the van. In the summer, effective insulation will reflect the heat of the sun and keep your van at a comfortable temperature.

There are three main modes of heat transfer: Conduction, Convection, and Radiant heat transfer. All three can result in both heat gain and heat loss depending on the time of year. It is important to keep all three in mind when choosing insulation materials for your camper van floors, walls, and ceiling (the three areas you will need to insulate in your van).

Radiation Heat Transfer

Radiant heat transfer is when a warmer object emits heat, and it travels to a cooler object through electromagnetic waves without needing a medium such as air. An example in terms of camper vans is the sun warming your camper van through the windows. The main way to insulate against radiant heat transfer is quality window shades.

Conduction Heat Transfer

Conduction heat transfer is the transfer of heat between materials in direct contact. A fantastic example of this is the sheet metal of a camper van body. Metals have tightly packed molecules that make them extremely efficient at this type of heat transfer. On a hot or cold day, heat is transferred through the chassis into the interior of your camper van. The best way to insulate against this heat transfer is to include a type of thermal break in your insulation strategy, such as Lizard Skin, or closed-cell foam. This is often a type of camper van insulation overlooked, but it can make a massive difference!

Convection Heat Transfer

Convection heat transfer is the movement of heat through gas or liquid. An example of this in a camper van is simply the movement of hot air or cold air throughout the interior of your camper van. The best way to insulate against this is to minimise "air gaps" in your mass insulation and the insulation of all your beams and walls.

In your camper van insulation strategy, you will want a mass insulation material, thermal break layer, and radiant heat barriers.

Mass Insulation

This is for cavities, walls, ceilings, and the like, and is used to fight against convection and conduction heat transfer. Common options include: 3M Thinsulate, and Havelock Wool.

Thermal Break Layer

This is used to fight against conduction heat transfer, especially on hot days. We place this layer on the back of all wall panels and anywhere the chassis touches an extruded aluminium module. Common options include Lizard Skin Ceramic Insulation, or closed-cell foam.

Radiant Heat Loss Barrier

For this, you simply need window shades to prevent radiant heat gain in your windows.

Materials

Mass Insulation

  • 3M Thinsulate: A synthetic insulation with an R-value of 3.8 per inch (if you purchase the SM600 automotive Thinsulate). With a pile height of 1 3/4″, SM600 delivers a fantastic R-value of 5.2 per layer, and is many places in your van you will install two layers!! Thinsulate comes in 60” wide rolls and can be cut to size for each body cavity you wish to fill. It has a black fabric backing to which the 1 3/4” pile height is strongly adhered to. That higher R-Value comes at a higher price point though, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth it! Like Havelock Wool, Thinsulate is moisture-resistant insulation and is extremely durable. It is tried and true, and also has slight noise-insulating properties due to its non-woven sound-absorbing fibres.
  • Havelock Wool: Havelock wool (sheep’s wool) is a mass insulation with an R-value of 3.6 per inch. It is excellent as a mass insulator in camper vans because Havelock Wool is a renewable, environmentally friendly product. Havelock Wool batts are easy to pull apart with your hands and then conform to all the oddly shaped nooks and crannies in your van. Havelock Wool is the only insulation that is able to absorb extra moisture and then release it when the ambient air is dry. This is extremely important for moisture mitigation as camper vans will get moisture in the walls.

Thermal Break Layer

  • Lizard Skin: Lizard Skin is a brand of spray-on insulations offering both sound control and ceramic insulation coats. Lizard Skin itself has been around for a while, but it is relatively new to the camper van use case. Lizard Skin spray-on Ceramic Insulation creates a thermal break everywhere in your camper van. This works to prevent conduction (discussed above) especially on hot days. It is environmentally friendly and can be cleaned up with soap and water! It is effective at adhering to hard-to-reach nooks and crannies, and funky geometry, which is key for camper vans.
  • Closed-cell foam: Closed-cell foam is the easiest option. This is just a layer of foam surrounded on both sides by foil. You can install it with 3M90 adhesive wherever you want to create a thermal break. For example, you can install it on the backs of wall panels and furring strips where they touch the sheet metal.
  • Cork: Cork is a natural thermal insulator that can work to prevent thermal bridging. If you opt to not use Lizard Skin, this is a good option for your subfloor thermal breaking.

Radiant Heat Loss Barrier

Low-E Insulation: Low-E insulation is primarily a radiant barrier that reflects radiant heat transfer and prevents heat from being absorbed into your van in the first place, especially through your windows. Low-E insulation is a thin closed-cell foam barrier with a surface coating of aluminium on each side to give it its low E characteristics, and comes in two general thicknesses: 3 mm and 5 mm. The key to Low-E insulation working is an air gap between the Low-E foil on at least one side. If

Frequently asked questions

A camper is a self-propelled vehicle that provides transport and sleeping accommodation. It is also referred to as a campervan, caravanette, motorhome, or recreational vehicle (RV). Campers usually have a small kitchen and sleeping quarters.

There are two main types of campers: hard-sided (or slide-in) campers and pop-up campers. Hard-sided campers have solid walls and a fixed roof, while pop-up campers have a collapsible design that "pops up" when parked, providing additional living space.

When building a camper, it is essential to consider your budget, desired features and amenities, timeline, and legal requirements. It is also important to choose the right type of vehicle and trailer frame for your needs.

Common materials used for building a camper include wood, plywood, insulation, windows, doors, lighting, electrical systems, plumbing, and ventilation. It is important to ensure that all materials are roadworthy and compliant with relevant regulations.

Building your own camper can be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing a pre-built one. It allows for personalization and customization to meet your specific needs and preferences. Building your own camper can also be a fun and challenging project, allowing you to learn new skills and express your creativity.

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