Creating A Comfortable Camper: Tips For A Cozy Home-On-Wheels

how to make a camper cozy

Making a campervan feel like home is no easy feat, but with a few simple upgrades, you can transform your space into a cosy haven. From adding blankets and pillows to installing blackout curtains, there are endless ways to make your campervan your own. Whether you're a full-time van lifer or an occasional adventurer, creating a comfortable and inviting space is essential for a pleasant journey. So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and turn that van into a cosy abode!

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Soft furnishings and decorations

Start with the upholstery. Choose a durable fabric that is not too stretchy or dirt-prone, but also consider patterns and colours that will make your ride stand out. Opt for simple patterns or statement fabrics to give your camper a unique look.

Curtains are a popular choice for campervans, as they are low-maintenance, provide insulation, and give a cosy vibe. They can also be easily removed for washing or replacing. Blackout curtains are a good option for blocking out light during the day and keeping the sun out when trying to sleep. You can also add a fun pattern to your reflectix for extra privacy and insulation.

Cushions and throw pillows are a great way to add colour and comfort to your camper. Look for block-colour cushion covers, or buy the middle part separately from stores like Ikea. Avoid having too many cushions, as they can be a pain to move around in a small space.

Rugs are another way to add personality and make your camper feel like home. A doormat is perfect for dusting off muddy boots, and a rug by the bed can keep your toes warm.

Fairy lights or string lights can also make your camper feel cosy, especially if you prefer a softer, yellow tint. These can be stuck around the van with battery-powered lights, creating a soft glow.

Finally, consider adding some artwork or posters to your walls. Hang framed lightweight posters and pictures with nail-free adhesive hangers, and use mounting putty to prevent them from swinging when you're on the move. You can also decorate cupboards with a road map and mark your route as you complete it.

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Make it homely

Making your campervan feel homely is a fun and creative process. It's all about adding your personal touches and making the space your own. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Decorate with trinkets and accessories

Add some artwork, posters, postcards or family photos to the walls. These will help to make your van feel more like a living room and give it a homely touch. You could also hang up some Polaroid pictures or use lightweight frames to display cherished memories. Fairy lights or string lights can also create a cosy atmosphere and make your space feel unique.

Soft furnishings

Add some soft furnishings such as cushions, throws, blankets and rugs. These will make your van feel cosy and inviting, as well as adding a pop of colour or a personal touch. You could also bring your favourite bedding from home to make your bed extra comfortable.

Make use of storage

Living in a small space means you need to be clever with storage. Add some storage boxes or compartments to keep things organised and tidy. This will help to prevent clutter and make your van feel more spacious and inviting.

Bring the comforts of home

Think about the little things that make you feel comfortable at home and bring them with you. This could include your favourite mug for a cup of tea or coffee, some flameless candles, or even a rug or doormat to welcome you into your van.

Create a homely scent

Smells can evoke feelings of comfort and memories of home. Bring your signature scent with you by using an oil diffuser in your van. Scents such as sweet orange, lavender, eucalyptus and black spruce are great for eliminating odours and creating a pleasant atmosphere.

Upgrade your bedding

Invest in a comfortable mattress, bedding and pillows. A good night's sleep is essential, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time on the road. You could also add a mattress topper for extra comfort.

Make it personal

Add some personal touches that reflect your personality and interests. This could be a favourite piece of artwork, a handcrafted object, or even a pop of colour with painted walls or cupboards. Making your van feel like an extension of yourself will make it a truly homely space.

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Focus on seating areas

Most camper vans will have a core seating area in the kitchen or near the front cab. These areas are a great place to start making your camper feel like home. You can easily add some throw pillows or a blanket to give the space some texture and extra coziness. Some people even add seat covers or place a fitted sheet over their couches and chairs.

If you're crafty, you can reupholster your seating with a specific fabric of your choice and replace the cushions as needed. Reupholstering can be pricey, so if you're on a budget, consider purchasing some fabric and doing it yourself. There are plenty of step-by-step instructions available on YouTube.

If you're not loving the setup or style of the furniture in your camper van, you can always replace it. Just make sure to measure everything, including the door, to ensure the new items will fit. Replacement furniture can be found online through sites like Amazon, RecPro, and Facebook Marketplace, or in-store at RV suppliers.

Another way to make your seating area more inviting is to add a rug. Rugs come in various styles, adding personality and making your camper feel like home. A soft rug will also feel nice under your bare feet after a long day of adventures. If you're worried about dirty shoes or muddy boots, get a washable runner rug to make cleanup easier.

Ottomans are another great option for seating areas. They provide a small spot to put your feet up and can double as storage or an extra seat.

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Swap out simple fixtures

Swapping out simple fixtures is a great way to make your camper feel more like home. This can be an easy and affordable way to make your space more welcoming and modern.

One of the simplest ways to do this is by hanging curtains. Curtains can add a cosy vibe and provide extra insulation. They can also be easily washed or replaced. For a more modern look, consider blinds, which use less fabric and give a streamlined appearance. Blinds can be rolled or pulled up, but they may take a little longer to put away.

Changing out lights or adding fun lampshades can also make a big difference. Installing dimmers on your light fixtures can help create a welcoming atmosphere, especially in small spaces. Replacing drawer and cabinet handles is another easy way to modernise your space and make it feel more cohesive.

If you're feeling creative, you can also reupholster your seating. This allows you to choose a fabric that suits your taste and replace any worn-out cushions. It's a great way to add a pop of colour and make your space feel new again.

Finally, replacing the hardware on your cabinets and drawers can be a simple update that makes a big difference. You can also spray paint your current hardware instead of replacing it to save some money.

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Add homely comforts

Adding homely comforts to your camper van is a great way to make it feel more inviting and personal. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Soft Furnishings

Add blankets, cushions, rugs and a good duvet to your camper to create a cosy atmosphere. These items provide warmth and comfort, especially during colder months. They can also add a pop of colour and pattern, making the space feel more homely. Consider using crochet blankets, throw pillows and a soft rug to make your space extra inviting.

Lighting

Fairy lights and string lights can instantly make your camper feel cosy and magical. Opt for battery-powered lights that give off a soft, yellow-tinted glow to create a relaxing ambiance. You can also add LED lights or a soft reading lamp for a calming atmosphere in the evenings.

Decorations

Decorate your camper with trinkets, posters, postcards, and artwork to make it feel like home. Display items that remind you of happy memories or places you've visited. You can also hang framed family photos or create a gallery wall with Polaroid pictures. Just remember to secure them properly to prevent them from falling while you're on the road.

Comforts of Home

Bring some comforts of home with you to make your camper feel extra cosy. This could include your favourite mug for a cup of tea or coffee, a comfy pair of slippers, or a good book to curl up with. You can also add flameless candles, soft pillows, and an ultra-soft throw blanket to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Scents and Fresh Flowers

Bring your signature scent from home by using an oil diffuser in your camper. Scents like sweet orange, lavender, eucalyptus, and black spruce are great for creating a cosy and inviting atmosphere. You can also stop at roadside stands and farmer's markets to pick fresh flowers for your camper. A foldable vinyl vase that attaches to a window or mirror is perfect for displaying blooms and adding a touch of nature to your space.

Frequently asked questions

Decorate your camper with personal items, such as posters, postcards, and trinkets. Add soft furnishings like blankets, cushions, and rugs. Install good lighting, such as fairy lights or low, calming lamps.

Swap out simple fixtures and fittings, such as curtains, lights, and cabinet handles. Use dishes and mugs from home. Add some homely comforts, such as rugs, throws, and candles.

Utilise storage solutions to keep things organised and tidy. Use multi-purpose items to save space. Add mirrors to create the illusion of more room.

Focus on the main seating areas and add some throw pillows and blankets. Use colours and fabrics that are warm and inviting. Add some ambient lighting, such as string lights or fairy lights.

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