Creating Space For Sideways Sleeping In Your Camper Van

Sleeping sideways in a camper van is a great way to maximise your living space, but it's not always the most practical option. If you're thinking of converting your van, there are a few things you should consider first. Firstly, the width of your van needs to be taller than your height, and you'll also need to account for any insulation and walls that might reduce the space. One option is to install window flares, which can add several inches to the width of your van, but this can be costly and may not be compatible with your layout. Another thing to keep in mind is the shape of the van; most vans have curved walls, so you'll need to mount your bed at the right height to achieve the maximum width. Additionally, sleeping sideways might not be the best use of space, as it can limit storage and make it difficult to move around. There are alternative options to consider, such as bunk beds, hammocks, or a north-south bed configuration, which can provide more versatility and comfort.

Choose a van wider than your height

When choosing a van for your camper conversion, the first thing to consider is why you want to convert a van and how you plan to use it. The choice of van depends on your style, needs, and budget.

If you want to sleep sideways in your camper van, you need to find a van that provides enough width. The width you need depends on your height, the amount of insulation, and the height of your bed platform.

The widest van on the market is the RAM Promaster at 75.6" (6'3") across the interior. This is the only van that can fit a Short Queen mattress sideways without any modifications. This makes the RAM Promaster a top choice for taller people who want to sleep sideways.

If you are looking for a van that is wider than your height, you should consider the following options:

• Classic American vans such as the Ford E-Series, Chevy Express, and GMC Savana offer a width of about 72"-73.6" (6'0"-6'1"). These vans have curved walls, so the width can be maximized by mounting the bed at the right height, just below the halfway point (beltline).
• For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, or Nissan NV, which offer a width of around 70" (5'10"). With proper planning and optimization, you can achieve a comfortable sleeping space for someone up to 66"-68" tall.
• If you require even more width, you can opt for window flares or body flares, which can extend your window area by several inches. This modification can cost around $1,600-$2,000 but can make a significant difference, especially if installed on both sides of the van.
• Another option is to choose a medium or large camper van, which provides more interior space. Medium camper vans offer 7-12 cubic meters of space, while large camper vans offer 12-17 cubic meters. This allows for more creative bed placement and configurations.
• Finally, if standing height is not a requirement, a micro or small camper van can be a good choice. These vans offer excellent fuel economy, maneuverability, and ease of parking. While they may not have the width for sleeping sideways, they can be ideal for solo travelers or couples who prefer a cozy and compact space.

Install window flares

Installing window flares, or body flares, is a great way to create more space for sleeping sideways in your camper van. This modification can be done by cutting out the sheet metal panel and installing fibreglass bump-outs, also known as "van bump out panels" or "van side pods". Here's a step-by-step guide on how to install window flares:

• Test Fit Your Flares: Before making any cuts or modifications, it's important to test fit your flares to ensure they align with the panel lines of your van. This step ensures that you have the correct flares for your vehicle.
• Paint Your Flares: Flares typically come in a neutral colour, so you'll need to paint them to match the colour of your van. You can either DIY the paint job or get them professionally painted. If you choose to DIY, you'll need to scuff the flares with a coarse Scotch pad, wipe them with mineral spirits, and then spray-paint them with the colour of your choice.
• Check the Weather: Before beginning the installation, check the weather forecast and choose a dry window of at least two days. The sealant used to hold the flares in place requires adequate time to cure, and it's important to avoid getting the flares wet during this process.
• Cut Away the Interior Ribs: There are usually sub-ribs on the inside of the window stamp that need to be cut individually. A double-cut metal shear or a nibbler is recommended for this step to ensure a clean cut.
• Cut Out Side Panels: Using a step bit, drill a hole large enough to start cutting out the side panel. Work from the inside of the van and follow the OEM window stamp line to ensure a clean cut. Don't worry about getting a perfect line, as the flare trim ring will sit slightly inside the window cutout.
• Sand Any Burrs Down: Use a belt sander or coarse-grit sandpaper on a foam block to smooth out any burrs or rough edges along the cut line.
• Apply Rustoleum to Exposed Metal: Treat the exposed metal with a generous coat of rustoleum primer to prevent rusting. It's always better to apply two coats for added protection.
• Scuff Glue Area with a Scotch Brite Pad: To ensure the best adhesion between the sealant and the van's sheet metal, scuff the paint within the area where the sealant will sit. This will create a clean bonding surface for the adhesive.
• Prep Tape for Holding Flare in Place: Use tape to hold the flare in place while the sealant cures. Gaffers tape or blue painter's tape can be used, but be cautious as gaffers tape may leave a residue if exposed to direct sunlight and heat for too long.
• Apply Sealant to Flare: Using a high-pressure caulk gun, apply a full tube of the provided sealant to the inside edge of the flare. Ensure that the bead of sealant is even and continuous to create a watertight seal.
• Attach the Flare: With the help of an assistant, align the flare so that there is an equal gap between the flare and the window cutout area on all three sides (top, bottom, and rear). Firmly press the flare into place and hold it from the centre to prevent sagging or movement.
• Allow Sealant to Cure: The sealant requires a minimum of 30 hours to cure, but it's best to allow 48 hours for optimal results. During this time, do not drive the van or expose the flares to water.
• Finish the Interior of the Flares: You can add a layer of closed-cell foam and fabric to match the interior of your van. Additionally, consider installing trim rings to seamlessly carry the wall cavity into the flare. You can DIY the trim rings or purchase pre-made ones.

By following these steps, you can successfully install window flares to create more space for sleeping sideways in your camper van. Remember to take accurate measurements, work in a well-ventilated area when painting, and always allow adequate curing time for the sealant.

Consider sleeping diagonally

If you're sleeping alone in your camper van, sleeping diagonally is a great way to gain a few extra inches of space. This is especially useful if you're a taller person.

For example, the Dreamweaver Bed in a Storyteller Overland van is 56"x78" in the Mercedes Sprinter model and 56"x80" in the Ford Transit model. If you're sleeping alone, you can spread out diagonally and take up more space.

Similarly, if you're sleeping in a van with a partner, sleeping diagonally can give you more space. For instance, in a 2010 Ford E-350 Extended Passenger van, which is 73.6" wide at the absolute widest point, one person writes that they are 68" tall and their feet are pretty much flat against the window cover. However, if they slept diagonally, they would have more space.

If you want to calculate exactly how much space you'll save by sleeping diagonally, you can use the Pythagorean Theorem.

It's worth noting that sleeping diagonally may not be compatible with your layout. For example, if you plan to store bikes or other equipment under your bed, you might not be able to sleep diagonally.

Use hammocks

Hammocks are a great way to create more space in your camper van. They are the cheapest and easiest solution for extra sleeping space. Hammocks can be hung inside the van or, if your van has back doors, you can attach one end to a tree. Here are some tips for installing a hammock in your camper van:

Planning and Measuring

Take out all the furniture and lay the hammock flat across the length of the van, gradually moving the ropes up the walls and marking the placement. You should have about 12 inches between the wall and the hammock. Alternatively, use a string that is the same length as your hammock to visualise the slack. It is recommended to place the hammock diagonally to utilise the thicker corners of the van walls. You can also install an additional support beam.

Measuring Twice, Drilling Once

Measure the lengths multiple times to avoid making mistakes and having to drill multiple holes. Be mindful of pipes and electrical wires. Make indents where you will drill to increase precision and prevent the drill bit from wandering.

Choosing Hooks and Fixings

D-hooks are recommended for support, and toggle bolts can be used to further distribute the weight load from the back. Carabiners can be used to attach and detach the hammock with ease. To prevent rust, use a rust prevention product or sealant after drilling.

Test Out Your Hammock

Once your attachments are secured, hang the hammock and test it out. Do you feel supported? Is it in the right position? If so, you're ready to go!

Additional Tips

• Hammocks hung at the proper suspension angle of about 30 degrees can be comfortable for side sleepers.
• A fold-down sleeper sofa can be a good option for company.
• A hammock stand can be used to keep the hammock flat.
• Sleeping in a hammock can help with back pain.
• A good underquilt will keep you warm in the winter.

Install collapsible bunks

Bunk beds are a great way to save space in your camper van, especially if you're travelling with a large group. If you're looking to install collapsible bunks, there are a few options to consider.

One option is to install a folding or collapsible bunk bed system, such as the Cabbunk Camper Van Hammock Bunk Bed System. This system is designed to fit over the front seats of your camper van and can easily hold up to 200 lbs. The cot can be built as a folding or non-folding cot, with the non-folding option being simpler and more functional. The Cabbunk system is fully adjustable, lightweight, and can be set up in just 25 seconds. It packs down into a small package, making it easy to store when not in use.

Another option for collapsible bunks is to install a Murphy bed. Murphy beds are a great space-saving idea as they can be folded up during the day, creating more living space. You can choose to purchase a store-bought Murphy bunk bed or go the DIY route if you're handy and want to save some money. When building a DIY Murphy bed, consider using Murphy hinges and latches to keep the bed closed during the day.

If you're looking for an even more compact solution, you could also consider installing collapsible hammocks instead of bunks. Hammocks are a cheap and easy solution, and they can be easily hung using the seat belt hardware. Just keep in mind that hammocks may not be suitable for taller people.

Additionally, you could opt for portable bunk beds that can be folded down when not in use. Disc-O-Bed offers a versatile bed system that can be set up as a bunk bed, two cots, or even a couch. This option is great if you want to use the beds outside of your camper van as well, such as when camping in a tent.

When installing collapsible bunks in your camper van, it's important to consider the weight and height limitations of each option to ensure they will be comfortable and safe for your passengers.

Frequently asked questions