Building A Camper: What's The Cost Breakdown?

Building a camper van can be a rewarding experience, but how much does it cost? The price varies depending on whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional, and the type of amenities you want to include. The cost of building a camper van can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more, excluding the cost of the van itself. This includes expenses for electrical and plumbing installation, insulation, flooring, furniture, and any other desired features.

For example, a couple from Montreal, Canada, spent approximately $18,275 (excluding the van cost) to build out their DIY camper van, while others on Reddit have reported spending between $4,400 and $30,000 on their builds, depending on the complexity and number of features included.

Electrical system installation

The electrical system is one of the most important parts of your camper van conversion. It will be one of the more expensive systems in your van conversion, with costs potentially running into the thousands. However, it is possible to save money by shopping around for deals and buying second-hand or budget options.

Components

The first step in installing an electrical system in your camper van is to decide which components you will need. The exact components you choose will depend on your power requirements and budget, but the following is a list of common components:

• Batteries
• Inverter and/or inverter charger
• MPPT solar charge controller
• Lynx distributors and/or bus bars
• AC distribution panel
• Master on/off switch
• DC fuse panel
• Battery monitor or smart shunt

Battery Types

There are two main types of batteries used in camper van electrical systems: lithium iron and AGM. Lithium iron batteries are more expensive, lighter, and can be discharged nearly fully, whereas AGM batteries are cheaper, heavier, and can only be discharged to half capacity. When deciding which type of battery to use, consider your budget, weight constraints, and power needs.

Battery Capacity

The amount of battery capacity you need will depend on your daily power consumption. It is recommended to have a minimum of two days' worth of battery capacity. You can use a power audit calculator to determine your daily power consumption and then choose batteries that meet or exceed that amount.

Inverters and Inverter Chargers

Inverters convert the DC power in your batteries to usable AC power for your outlets. Inverter chargers also allow you to charge your house batteries using shore power. When sizing your inverter, determine the maximum current you will be drawing from your system at any one time and choose an inverter that is rated slightly higher than that sum.

MPPT Solar Charge Controller

A maximum power point tracking (MPPT) solar charge controller is needed if you want to use solar panels to charge your batteries. It converts the voltage of the solar energy harvested and delivers it to your batteries at a safe voltage for charging. When sizing your MPPT charge controller, consider the number and type of wiring of your solar panels.

Wiring

When selecting the correct wire gauge for your system, you need to consider the current of the load and the distance that load has to travel from the power source to the appliance. It is important to use stranded copper wire rather than solid copper wire to withstand the daily vibrations of your van. You can use a wire gauge chart to determine the appropriate wire gauge for each load in your system.

Protection

It is crucial to protect your electrical system to prevent fires and other hazards. Fuses, wire sheath, and conduit are commonly used methods of protection. Fuses are thin strips of metal that melt when there is an overcurrent, opening the circuit and cutting off power. Wire sheath is an expandable braided sleeve that adds a layer of protection against rubbing and cutting. Conduit is a plastic-like covering that slides over the wires for additional protection.

Installation Process

The process of installing an electrical system in your camper van typically involves the following steps:

• Arrange and mount all electrical components in a tidy and logical position.
• Wire your batteries together.
• Deliver power to your bus bars, switch, shunt, on/off switch, and main battery fuse.
• Wire all of your bus bar connections.
• Wire up your point of use, including all DC appliances and AC outlets, protecting any wires running near sharp edges with conduit or sheath

Plumbing

Water System

The water system in a camper van typically consists of a freshwater tank, a water pump, an accumulator, points of use (such as a shower or sink), and a grey water tank for collecting used water. The system can be pressurised using a 12V water pump, which should be connected to a switch to turn it off when not in use. An accumulator is also recommended to smooth out pressure changes and provide a better water usage experience.

Tanks

When choosing tanks, consider the size and shape that best suit your needs. Over-the-wheel-well water tanks are space-efficient but more expensive, while standard box-shaped tanks are cost-effective but less space-efficient. It is also essential to determine the capacity of your freshwater tank by estimating your daily water usage and the number of days between fill-ups. Grey water tanks are typically half the size of the freshwater tank.

Pipes and Connections

Flexible piping options like braided vinyl tubing or PEX tubing are recommended due to the tight spaces in a van. PEX tubing, in particular, is more durable and has a higher burst pressure rating. Various connectors, valves, and fittings will also be needed to complete the plumbing system.

Hot Water

Hot water is a luxury that can be added to your camper van. Options include a hydronic heating system, a propane tankless water heater, or an AC-powered hot water heater. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, complexity of installation, and energy source.

Waste Management

Wastewater management is an important consideration. Grey water can be dumped using jugs or a permanently mounted grey water tank. It is crucial to dispose of grey water responsibly and use biodegradable soaps to minimise environmental impact.

Cost Breakdown

The cost of plumbing for a camper van can vary depending on the choices made. Here is a breakdown of expenses:

• Freshwater and grey water tanks: £50-£300
• Water pump, strainer, and accumulator: £50-£150
• Plumbing tubes, valves, connectors, and tools: £50-£200
• Hot water system: £100-£1000
• Shower installation: £100-£500 (optional)
• Mounted grey water tank: £100-£500 (optional)

The total cost for plumbing in a camper van can range from £300 to £2500, depending on the choices and level of customisation.

Ventilation

There are two main types of ventilation: passive and active. Passive ventilation uses natural air currents and the buoyancy of hot air to circulate air in and out of the van. It doesn't require any power and is generally cheaper, but it may not be as effective in higher temperatures or when there is little air movement. Active ventilation, on the other hand, uses power-driven fans to constantly circulate air, even when it's hot or still outside. It can be more effective but may require more maintenance and can be noisier.

When designing your ventilation system, it's important to consider the positioning of vents and the surrounding environment. Pairing vents at different heights can create a circulatory system, with one vent drawing in cool air and the other expelling hot air. If you plan to travel in hot climates, you'll need more ventilation to keep the van cool. In colder places, ventilation is still important to prevent condensation and humidity. Cooking and showering inside the van will also increase the need for ventilation to reduce smells, heat and moisture.

There are several options for camper van ventilation, ranging from simple and inexpensive to more complex and costly. Here are some common ventilation solutions:

• Opening cab windows: This is the easiest and cheapest option, but it may not be very effective, especially in larger vans. It also leaves the van unsecured and can let rain or insects inside.
• Window grills: These allow you to leave the cab windows open while keeping the van secure. They are inexpensive and easy to install but may not provide enough airflow in warmer weather.
• Window deflectors: These alter airflow while driving with the windows open and can help disguise the fact that the windows are open. They reduce wind noise and can protect against rain but don't improve ventilation.
• Additional campervan windows: Installing opening windows in the van's panels allows for more airflow and can be used to quickly expel heat and smells. They can be locked in an open position but require physical alterations to the van and may not be effective in very hot weather.
• Wall and floor vents: These provide constant air circulation without the need for open windows. They are more secure and include louvre vents, floor vents, and small round vents. They are generally inexpensive and easy to install but may not be very attractive.
• 12V wall vent: This is a small, powered vent that uses a fan to actively draw air in or expel air out. It is ideal for bathrooms or near a hob but requires a power source and can be noisy.
• Roof vents: There are various types of roof vents, including passive and active options. Some double as skylights, providing natural light but they tend to be more expensive. Mushroom vents use passive ventilation and work best in conjunction with another vent. 12V mushroom roof vents have a fan for active ventilation but may not be powerful enough for larger vans.
• Wind-powered roof vent: This vent uses wind to spin and create constant airflow. It is reliable and robust but requires other vents to create an effective circulatory system.
• Skylights: These vents can be opened to provide ventilation and natural light. Some models include a blind and fly screen, while others have a basic cover. They can interfere with roof storage and are risky to leave open when away from the van.
• Fan-assisted roof vents: These provide the best performance and most effective ventilation, with different settings to expel hot air or draw in fresh air. They are the most expensive option and may be noisy, but they don't depend on the weather or van movement.

When designing your ventilation system, consider your budget, the size of your van, and your specific needs. You may want to combine different types of vents to create an effective circulatory system. Remember to factor in the cost of installation and any necessary alterations to your van.

Kitchen appliances

For a basic setup, a simple gas stove such as a Coleman 2-burner or a camp stove with green 1 lb propane tanks will do the job. If you want something more substantial, a domestic hob can be adapted for use in a van by swapping out the nozzles and attaching an adapter to connect to a gas pipe. Expect to pay a premium for a caravan/boat hob, so this can be a way to save money.

For refrigeration, a cool box or insulated cooler will keep food cold but will need to be replenished with ice. A proper fridge will be more convenient but comes with a high price tag. A Dometic Waeco CRX50, for example, is likely to cost upwards of £500. Keep an eye out for second-hand alternatives, which can be a great way to save money.

For cooking equipment, pots, pans, bowls, cutlery and utensils can be bought cheaply or even sourced second-hand.

For water, a simple setup might involve a jug with a valve at the bottom and a bucket for grey water. If you want something more sophisticated, you will need to factor in the cost of a water pump, strainer, accumulator, plumbing tubes, valves, connectors and crimps.

If you want to be able to cook and wash up inside your van, you will need to install a sink. Sinks can be bought ready-made or created by cutting a hole in a worktop and fitting a sink on top.

For ideas on how to build a kitchen unit, see this guide.

Furniture

The furniture for your camper van can be as simple or as elaborate as you want. You will need to build a bed, storage cabinets, counters, and a frame for your kitchen appliances. The cost of your van's furniture depends heavily on the cost of lumber at the time.

Bed

You can build a fixed platform for your bed or go for a more complex design, such as a bed with hydraulic lifts that allow you to store it on the ceiling when not in use. A simple fixed platform bed can cost as little as $35, while a high-quality mattress for a more elaborate bed design can cost upwards of $1,000.

Storage Cabinets, Counters, and Kitchen Appliances Frame

You will need to build cabinets, counters, and a frame to hold your kitchen appliances in place. The cost of materials for these items will depend on the quantity and quality of the wood you use. For a low-cost conversion, materials will cost around $250, while a high-end conversion can cost up to $2,200.

Seating Area

If you want a seating area in your camper van, you will need to factor in the cost of additional furniture such as chairs or a sofa. You may also want to consider a fold-out table, which will add to the cost.

Tools

Don't forget to budget for the tools you will need to build your furniture. Basic tools such as a power drill, drill bits, a straight edge, and safety equipment can cost around $100. If you need more specialized tools, the cost can quickly add up.

Total Cost

Considering the bed frame, mattress, cabinets, counters, kitchenette, table, hardware, and tools, you should be prepared to spend at least $1,000 on furniture for your camper van conversion. However, you may be able to find some items discounted or second-hand, and if you already own some of the necessary tools, your costs will be lower.

Frequently asked questions