
The Toyota Previa is a versatile vehicle that can be converted into a camper van for camping and road trips. The process involves removing the rear seats and installing a bed, kitchen, storage, and other amenities. The bed can be a simple inflatable mattress or a more permanent structure with plywood and cushions. The kitchen may include a propane stove, sink, and a cooler or fridge. Storage solutions can be built using plywood and L-brackets, and lighting and electrical setups can be added for convenience. The Previa's large windows and spacious interior make it a popular choice for camper conversions, offering both comfort and functionality for outdoor adventures.
What You'll Learn
Bed setup
There are several ways to set up a bed in your Previa camper. The simplest option is to remove the mid seats, prop up or remove the rear seats, and place an inflatable mattress in the back. However, this setup may require some creativity with gear storage. Another option is to use a collapsible bed frame that can be stowed away during the day and quickly set up at night. This can be made from plywood, 2x4s, and industrial adhesive-backed velcro. Cut the 2x4s to 72 inches and lay them flat, side by side. Use the velcro to attach slats or a plywood platform across the 2x4s to support your mattress. This setup can be broken down and stored away during the day to free up space in your camper.
If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you can create a full-time bed platform by raising it off the ground with a wooden frame. This will allow you to store gear underneath the bed. You can also add a pop-top tent or a roof-top tent to your Previa to create a second sleeping area without taking up space inside your camper. This option will require a more complex installation but will greatly increase the usability of your camper.
For a more comfortable sleeping experience, consider adding a cozy blanket, a down comforter, and some pillows. You can also use real milk crates to store your bedding and other gear when not in use.
Eliminate Dead Mouse Smell in Your Camper Easily
You may want to see also
Insulation
There are several types of insulation to choose from, and the best option may depend on factors such as cost, ease of installation, health risks, fire resistance, water absorption, and eco-friendliness. Here are some common options:
- Foam board insulation: This is an incredibly popular form of van conversion insulation due to its efficacy and rigid panels. It is made of polystyrene, polyisocyanurate, or polyurethane and comes in different types like polyiso board, XPS board, and EPS board. Foam board insulation has high R-ratings, good resistance to mould, and excellent ability to prevent air leaks. It is often lined with reflective foil, which improves its performance.
- Spray foam insulation: This type of insulation is expanding and can be satisfying to use, filling in tight spaces. However, it can be messy, time-consuming, and harmful to health and the environment.
- Loose-fill insulation: This type of insulation is similar to batt insulation but is loose instead of coming in rolls. It is environmentally friendly and good for filling small gaps, but it can be messy and susceptible to moisture.
- Batt insulation: This type of insulation is woolly in texture and comes in rolls. It is perfect for filling awkward spaces and preventing air loops. Popular options include 3M Thinsulate insulation rolls and Havelock Wool or Hempitecture HempWool, which are sustainable and safe choices.
- Reflective insulation: Materials like Reflectix or Low-E reflect heat away from the living space and act as a vapour barrier. They are effective in reducing radiant heat transfer but should not be covered, as this reduces their R-value.
When insulating a Toyota Previa campervan, here are some specific considerations and steps to take:
- Use a combination of different types of insulation: For example, you can use expanding foam, polyiso foam board insulation, and reflective insulation like Reflectix.
- Insulate the floor, walls, ceiling, doors, and wheel arches:
- Floor: Use 1/2 inch polyiso foam board insulation secured with Great Stuff Expanding Foam and aluminium foil tape.
- Walls and ceiling: Use 1-inch polyiso foam board insulation secured with expanding foam.
- Doors: Remove any plastic or ply lining and fill the interior with polyiso foam board and batt insulation.
- Wheel arches: Build a wooden frame, ply-line it, and fill it with wool insulation or use the space for wheel arch water containers.
- Create custom-made Reflectix window covers: These covers will help insulate the windows and provide privacy. Make sure to cut out small slits for window access points, such as window levers.
- Use aluminium foil tape: This tape is useful for covering connecting pieces of polyiso foam board and around the perimeter of the floor insulation.
- Consider sound deadening: Products like Noico or Killmat can help reduce noise by covering the sheet metal of the van.
Renting a Camper at Ocean Lakes: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Flooring
The flooring of your campervan is an important consideration, as it will provide the foundation for the rest of your build. Here are some detailed instructions and tips for installing flooring in your Toyota Previa campervan conversion.
Materials:
- Great Stuff Expanding Foam (1 bottle)
- 1/2 inch Polyiso Foam Board Insulation (2 sheets)
- 5 mm Plywood 4 x 8 Sheet (2 sheets)
- 3M Aluminum Foil Tape (1 roll)
- 3M 77 Strength Spray Adhesive (1 bottle, though we recommend 2 of 90 Strength)
- Campervan Flooring Vinyl (you can choose from a variety of materials and patterns)
- Optional: additional bottles of Great Stuff Expanding Foam and Polyiso Foam Board Insulation if you want to add extra insulation to your floor
Instructions:
- Clean the existing floor of your Previa and remove any debris or dirt.
- If desired, you can add a layer of insulation to the floor using the Polyiso Foam Board Insulation. Cut the insulation to fit the shape of your floor and secure it in place with the Great Stuff Expanding Foam.
- Cut the 5 mm plywood sheets to fit the shape of your floor. You may need to make multiple pieces to cover the entire floor.
- Attach the plywood pieces to the floor using the 3M 77 Strength Spray Adhesive. Make sure the pieces are securely attached and let the adhesive dry completely.
- Optional: if you want to add extra insulation or soundproofing, you can spray the expanding foam between the gaps in the plywood and around the edges of the floor.
- Cut and attach the campervan flooring vinyl to the top of the plywood. You can use the 3M Aluminum Foil Tape to secure the edges of the vinyl and create a clean finish.
Tips:
- Make sure to measure the floor of your Previa accurately before cutting the insulation and plywood to size.
- When attaching the plywood and flooring vinyl, work from the back of the van to the front to avoid having to step on the fresh adhesive.
- If you plan to install a bed or other heavy furniture, consider reinforcing the flooring with additional plywood or other sturdy materials.
- If you want a more custom look, you can paint or stain the plywood before attaching the flooring vinyl.
Cricket Camper Showers: What You Need to Know
You may want to see also
Electricals
The electrical setup of your campervan will depend on your budget, needs, and preferences. Some people prefer to keep it simple with minimal electrics, while others opt for a more complex setup to power various appliances. Here are some options and considerations for the electrical system in your Toyota Previa campervan conversion:
- Batteries: You will need a leisure battery to power your electrical appliances. The battery capacity will depend on your power requirements. For example, you could go for a 12V 100Ah LiFePO4 lithium battery or two 12V 31 AGM 48 batteries wired in parallel.
- Solar Panels: To keep your leisure battery charged, you can install flexible solar panels on the roof of your Previa. Make sure to get the right connectors, cables, and fuses to connect the solar panels to your battery.
- Inverter: If you want to run appliances that require AC power, such as a blender or a computer, you will need a pure sine wave inverter. The wattage of the inverter will depend on the power requirements of your appliances.
- Lighting: LED lights are a popular choice for campervans as they are energy-efficient and can be dimmable. You can install recessed lights in the ceiling and additional lights in other areas as needed, such as above a counter or desk.
- Charge Controller: A charge controller is essential to protect your solar panels and battery. It regulates the voltage and current coming from the solar panels to ensure the battery charges safely.
- Fuses: Always use fuses to protect your electrical system from short circuits and overloads. You can get a fuse block with multiple circuits to protect all your electrical devices.
- Wiring: Use the appropriate gauge of wiring for your electrical system. For example, 16-gauge wiring is commonly used for DC applications. Don't forget to use wire protection, such as split loom tubing, to keep your wiring organised and protected.
- Accessories: Consider what other electrical accessories you may need, such as USB chargers, a dimmer switch for your lights, or a fan.
- Electrical Safety: Ensure that all electrical installations are done correctly and safely. Consult a professional if you're unsure about any aspect of the electrical setup.
When planning your electrical system, consider creating a diagram or schematic to help you visualise the connections and ensure you have all the necessary components. Take into account the power requirements of all the appliances you plan to use, and size your battery and solar setup accordingly. Remember to follow electrical safety practices and regulations when working on your campervan conversion.
Back Camper Shell: Ultimate Adventure Upgrade
You may want to see also
Storage
Under-bed storage
One user created a full-sized bed in their Previa by using 2x4s, a roll of industrial adhesive-backed velcro, and a full-size Ikea "Sultan Lade" slatted bed base. The bed can be taken apart and stored away while driving, and the space underneath can be used to store items such as camp chairs and backpacks.
Another option for storage is to build storage boxes with drop-down doors. These can be fixed in place with magnetic catches or metal roller catches. The boxes can be covered with contract grey cord carpet, which is available from Carpet Right.
Kitchen storage
If you plan to include a kitchen in your Previa camper, you will need to consider how to store kitchen items such as cutlery, plates, bowls, mugs, and a cast-iron skillet. One option is to build shelves and cabinets using plywood and furring strip boards. You can also use random scrap plywood for shelves and an old tabletop for a countertop.
Overhead storage
To make use of the space above the cab, you can build a shelf using plywood and L-brackets or bendable metal for support. This can be used to store items that you don't need to access frequently.
Exterior storage
If you don't have enough space inside your Previa camper, you can consider adding exterior storage solutions such as a roof rack or a cargo carrier. This can be used to store items like bikes, kayaks, or other outdoor gear.
The Benefits of Tinting Your Camper Shell
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
The first step is to remove the rear seats. This will give you the space you need to build out the interior of your camper.
There are several options for the bed in your Previa camper. You can use a simple inflatable mattress, build a collapsible bed, or install a full-time bed with storage underneath. You can also add a pop-top tent or roof-top tent to the roof of your Previa to create a second sleeping area.
Some essential items to include in your Previa camper conversion are a leisure battery, inverter, lights, fan, solar panels, and a water tank. You may also want to consider adding a kitchen area with a stove, sink, and fridge.