Transforming Vans: Camper Conversion Guide For Uk Travellers

how to convert a van into a camper uk

Converting a Van into a Camper: The Ultimate UK Guide

Converting a van into a camper is a rewarding project for outdoor enthusiasts. It involves significant time, effort, and costs, but the outcome is a customised vehicle for adventures and staycations. This guide will cover everything from budgeting and planning to the step-by-step conversion process, offering essential insights for a successful DIY camper van transformation in the UK.

Planning and Budgeting

Before embarking on the conversion journey, it's crucial to establish a clear idea of what you want from your camper. Consider factors such as the number of travellers, pets, storage needs, outdoor gear, and your camping style.

Set a realistic budget and be prepared for potential overspending. Converting a camper can cost anywhere from under £1,000 to over £10,000, depending on your skills, materials, and complexity.

Choosing the Right Van

The choice of van is critical. Popular options include the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato, Renault Trafic, and Mercedes Benz Sprinter, each offering unique features and considerations.

The Conversion Process

Step 1: Preparation

Strip the van's interior, clean it thoroughly, and treat any issues like damp, mould, or rust. This step ensures a clean slate for your project.

Step 2: Windows and Ventilation

Plan and cut holes for windows and skylights, considering their placement based on your layout. Install a ventilation system to manage heat and water vapour, opting for roof vents or window air vents.

Step 3: Insulation and Heating

Insulate the van using house insulation, foam or foil panels, followed by a vapour barrier. Add rubber matting or lining carpet for sound deadening, and finish with plywood panels for temperature control and privacy.

Step 4: Electric and Gas Systems

Engage qualified professionals for electrical and gas installations to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Consider solar panels for off-grid adventures.

Step 5: Plumbing and Water

Install a cold-water system with either external portable containers or fixed internal tanks. Determine waste water storage and ensure easy access for maintenance.

Step 6: Lighting

LED strip lights are an efficient and customisable option for interior lighting.

Step 7: Bed and Seating

Install a fixed or foldable bed, depending on space constraints, and consider innovative solutions like convertible seating areas.

Step 8: Kitchen

Add a stove/sink combo or a space-saving fridge for a homely touch.

Step 9: Storage Spaces

Maximise storage with creative solutions, utilising spaces like the backs of doors, chairs, and the roof.

Step 10: Interiors and Upholstery

Personalise your camper's interior with decorations and upholstery to make it feel like home.

Step 11: Install an Awning

Consider a wind-out canopy to extend your living space and provide additional shelter.

Legal and Safety Considerations

Weight Restrictions

Ensure your converted van, along with passengers and cargo, does not exceed the legal weight limits.

Driving Licence

Check the required category of driving licence based on your age and the van's MAM (Maximum Authorised Mass).

Reclassifying the Van

Submit an application to the DVLA to reclassify your van as a 'motor caravan,' which can offer benefits like cheaper insurance and MOTs. Provide evidence of internal and external features, including windows, doors, graphics, and a high-top roof.

Insurance

Ensure you have appropriate campervan insurance that covers your needs, especially if you plan to travel abroad or have valuable items on board.

Inspiration and Community

Tap into the campervan community for guidance and inspiration. Attend events, exhibitions, and forums to connect with fellow enthusiasts and learn from their experiences and ideas.

Converting a van into a camper is a challenging yet rewarding endeavour. With careful planning, a realistic budget, and a step-by-step approach, you'll soon be hitting the roads in your very own customised camper.

Characteristics Values
Budget £3,000-£10,000+
Time 6-8 weeks-3 years
Space Large workshop or garage
Tools Clamps, jigsaw, screwdrivers, impact driver, electric drill, tape measure, mitre saw, multi-tool, pencil
Van choices Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato, Renault Trafic, Mercedes Benz Sprinter
Layout Fixed/fold-down bed, built-in/ad hoc cooking area, windows, skylights, roof vents, pop-up roof, awning
Insulation House insulation, foil and foam insulation panels, rubber matting, lining carpet, plywood panel
Electricity Leisure battery, inverter, solar panels
Gas Gas hob, gas heater, gas boiler
Water External portable containers, fixed internal tanks
Lighting LED strip lights
Seating Fixed/fold-down seats
Storage Roof racks, bike racks

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Budgeting and planning

Set a Realistic Budget

The cost of converting a van into a camper can vary widely, from as little as £1,000 to over £40,000. It is important to be realistic about how much you can afford to spend and to plan your conversion accordingly. Remember to factor in the cost of the van itself, as well as any materials, labour, and other expenses.

Choose the Right Van

The type of van you choose will have a significant impact on the overall cost of the conversion. Popular options include the Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato, and Mercedes Benz Sprinter. Consider the size, features, and condition of the van when making your decision.

Plan Your Layout Carefully

Take the time to plan out the layout of your campervan carefully. Consider your needs and priorities, such as the number of beds, cooking facilities, and storage space. Measure and draw out your layout to ensure that everything will fit and function as intended.

Prioritise and Be Flexible

If your budget is tight, consider prioritising essential features and phasing your conversion project. Get the van to a basic liveable standard first, and then work on more ambitious plans in subsequent phases. This approach will allow you to adapt your plans based on your actual experiences using the van.

Do Your Research

Take the time to research different conversion options, techniques, and materials. Seek advice from online forums, Facebook groups, and other campervan enthusiasts. This will help you make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Get Professional Help

Some aspects of a van conversion, such as electrical and gas installations, are best left to professionals. Hiring specialists for certain tasks can ensure safety, compliance with regulations, and peace of mind. It can also add value to your campervan if you decide to sell it in the future.

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Choosing a van

Budget

The cost of converting a van into a camper can vary depending on the level of specification and the materials used. It is important to set a budget and try to stick to it as much as possible. Basic conversions can cost around £1,000, while more complex conversions can easily run into the tens of thousands. It is also worth considering the cost of the van itself, as this will be your biggest expense.

Size and Space

Consider how much space you will need in your camper van. If you plan to travel with multiple people or pets, you will need a larger van. Also, think about how much storage you will require for your belongings, outdoor gear, and any additional amenities you plan to install, such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Make and Model

There are several popular van models that are commonly used for conversions, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some options to consider:

  • Volkswagen Transporter: Easy to drive, holds its value well, and has a variety of models to choose from.
  • Ford Transit: Adaptable with various wheel lengths and roof heights, fuel-efficient, but some models may have had a hard life.
  • Fiat Ducato: Offers excellent value for money, easy to stand up in, but wider than some other options.
  • Renault Trafic: Good-looking and reliable, sits between the Kangoo and Master in the Renault van family, offering a mid-size option.
  • Mercedes Benz Sprinter: Adaptable with a large interior and safety features, narrow design, but may be more expensive.

Condition and Maintenance

When choosing a van, it is crucial to consider its condition and maintenance history. Look for a van with a good service history and minimal rust or damage. Older models may have rust around wheel arches and under sills, which can be expensive and difficult to repair. Ensure the engine has plenty of life left and check for any mechanical issues.

Windows and Ventilation

An important consideration for your van is the number and placement of windows. Think about how much natural light and ventilation you will need and plan accordingly. You may also want to install skylights or roof vents to improve airflow and create a sense of space.

Insulation and Heating

Insulation is essential to maintain a comfortable temperature in your camper van. Consider the type of insulation you will use and ensure it is applied correctly. Combine insulation with a gas heater to stay cosy during colder months.

Electrical and Gas Systems

Unless you have experience with electrical and gas installations, it is best to leave these to the professionals. Incorrect installations can be dangerous and may affect the resale value of your van. Consider hiring a qualified electrician and gas engineer to ensure these systems are installed safely and correctly.

Plumbing and Water

Access to fresh water is essential for your comfort. Decide whether you will use external portable containers or fixed internal tanks for water storage. Most converters opt for internal tanks located under the van, operated by 12-volt pumps. Don't forget to plan for waste water storage as well!

Taking the time to choose the right van for your needs and carefully considering the above factors will set the foundation for a successful camper van conversion.

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Insulation and ventilation

Insulating a campervan is crucial, as the UK can get quite chilly, and a well-insulated van will keep the heat in and reduce condensation. There are various materials to choose from, including regular house insulation, thick foam, or foil insulation panels. You can stuff regular house insulation into any gaps in the interior and cover them with panelling, or glue modern foil and foam insulation panels directly to the van's body.

After insulating, you'll want to cover the insulation with cladding or panelling. This is also when you should consider ventilation, as a well-insulated van can become stuffy. Windows that open and close easily are a good option, and you might also want to install electrically operated air vents.

If you plan to install a shower or toilet, you'll need a more comprehensive ventilation system to remove moisture.

It's also worth considering installing any complicated electrical layouts before finishing the cladding, as it's neater to hide wiring and cabling. This is a good time to bring in a professional electrician, as incorrect electrical installation can be dangerous, and you'll want the correct certification for insurance purposes.

A simple option for electricity is to install a leisure battery, which takes feed from the vehicle's alternator and powers an inverter. This can run things like fridges, cool boxes, entertainment devices, and LED lights.

Heating

A gas heater is a good option for keeping your campervan warm. However, gas installation is best left to a professional, and you'll want the correct certification to meet insurance requirements.

Soundproofing

To soundproof your van, you can use rubber matting or lining carpet. This will make the van more private and comfortable by reducing road noise.

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Electrics and gas

Gas

Gas installation is a job for professionals. Gas heaters, boilers and hobs can be installed in a van, but it is highly dangerous to attempt this without proper training. A Gas Safe Engineer qualified to work on motorhomes should be called in, at the very least, for pre-installation advice and to sign off the work with a certificate at the end.

Electrics

As with gas, it is highly recommended to get a qualified auto electrician to install your electrical setup. This is the safest option and will also save you a lot of time and worry. It may also invalidate your insurance if you have a fire in the van caused by dodgy electrics.

If you want to install solar panels, these can be tricky to get onto the roof of the van, so it is a good idea to get a friend to help.

Certification

It is good practice to get certification for any gas and electrical work carried out. This will be important for the resale value of your van.

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Plumbing and water

Water Storage

If you're planning on installing running water in your camper, you'll need to think about how you're going to store both fresh and waste water. The number of appliances you install will affect how much water storage you'll need. For example, if you only have a single tap, smaller tanks will do, but if you're thinking of having a shower, you'll need much larger tanks.

You can use either external portable containers or fixed internal tanks. Most people go for the latter, with tanks fitted underneath the van and powered by 12-volt pumps. For wastewater, an external tank is often preferred for ease of access in case of blockages.

Plumbing

Unless you're looking to install a toilet or shower in your campervan, the installation of a cold-water system is relatively straightforward.

The water is pumped out of the tank and through an accumulator, then "T"s off to the water heater and the front of the van. The water heater has a hot outlet that runs parallel to the cold feed through to the front of the van, and each feed then has a "Y" connector which goes either towards the shower or onto the sink.

To run the water system, simply turn on the water pump using a switch wired above the sink. To heat the water, turn on the switch above the sink (this takes 10-20 minutes depending on whether you heat with gas, electric, or both).

All hoses should be 1/2 inch (12mm) food-grade and secured with hose clips.

Gas Systems

Gas installation is a job for professionals. Done incorrectly, the results can be disastrous, and your insurance may be invalid without a certificate from a qualified engineer.

If you're thinking of going off-grid, consider installing an underslung LPG tank, which can be refilled at any Autogas/LPG stop across Europe. This will take up quite a bit of space in your living area, so another option is to install an underslung LPG canister under the van, which can also be refilled worldwide with the correct local adaptor.

Electric Systems

Electricity installation is another job that should be left to the professionals. Getting it wrong can be extremely dangerous, and you'll want the correct certification for insurance purposes and for when you come to sell the van.

If you're thinking of going off-grid, consider installing solar panels to boost your power.

Frequently asked questions

The cost of converting a van into a campervan in the UK can vary depending on your budget, the type of van, and the level of customisation you desire. Basic conversions can start from under £1,000, while more complex conversions with high-end features can cost upwards of £10,000. It's important to set a clear budget and plan accordingly to avoid overspending.

The essential steps in converting a van into a campervan include stripping and cleaning the van, installing windows and ventilation, insulation and heating, electrical and gas systems, plumbing and water systems, adding bedding and seating, and ensuring safety measures such as fire extinguishers and seat belts are in place. It is recommended to involve professionals for electrical and gas installations.

To reclassify your van as a 'motor caravan' with the DVLA, you must meet certain criteria. This includes external features such as windows on the sides, a separate door for living accommodation, motorhome-style graphics, and internal features such as sleeping accommodation and a table. It is important to provide the required evidence and photographs to support your application.

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