Converting a van or bus?

Hey. HELLO!!! Hi. lol

How's it going everyone? Sooo, as you can guess, the topic of this specific thread is going to be about converting a bus or van into a camper. I'm basically asking for tips on how to and how much will it cost. So, give me what you got. 

thank you

My best advice to you is to go sleep in your current rig for a weekend. See how it goes. What did you use? What did you wish you had? There are as many ways to build a van / bus as there are van / bus owners. Because one person really enjoys their setup - it may not be the best fit for you. My setup has evolved over time and I'm always trying to trim it down and make it the best for ME. Check out other people rigs and get inspired. If you want to see my setup you can on Instagram @smellybagofdirt. As far as cost goes. All you NEED to buy is the actual van. Anything else is "extra" - To give you a starting point. My van cost $600 to buy and $2,000 to "convert." 

A van is easier to park and sleep anywhere and a bus might not get you everywhere. 

I don't know why everyone feels this compulsion to "build out" a vehicle. Fabricate a platform to sleep on, you're done.

Van or bus? Van, better mpg, duh.

keeping it neat, organized and bright on the inside are key to feeling good when you wake up here

 a good curtain system is Key to privacy when sleeping but I like windows as well so that I can see what is out there for both security reasons and just plain enjoying the view This campsite had this view...

I have found that this can be as simple or as complex as you make it. No build will ever be perfect. There will always be things that you'd like to do differently. Shop the bargain areas at your local home improvement store if your on a budget. I used some miss matched paint to paint the interior wood I wanted to protect. Then got some one cent adhesive tiles to protect the floor and used some scrap plywood and 2x4's to build out the interior of my 2002 dodge I picked up for $2,300 w/ 53k mi. Lots of construction sites let you take whatever you want out of the dumpster if you just ask. I see a van as more as a means to see amazing areas more than anything. That being said, if you got an extra 100k go get a pre built sprinter go for it. But what do I know, I live in a van down by a river, 

I find that I don't like any of the pre built campers that I have checked out. Likely I am stubborn and praticuler.  Dumpster diveing is key to any construction project these days. cost of materials is crazy!

Tradiban wrote: I don't know why everyone feels this compulsion to "build out" a vehicle. Fabricate a platform to sleep on, you're done.

Van or bus? Van, better mpg, duh.

Depends how much time you plan to spend in it. If you're going on an extended trip and plan to live out of the thing for months at a time then things like a heater, kitchen, outlets, lights, curtains, etc etc all have massive benefits. 

It doesn't need to be expensive and you can always add on later as you acquire more funds.  Regardless of how much you are spending I wouldn't go overboard on the initial config since you may change your mind as you use it.  I would start with insulation and some sort of sleeping platform, plus a food prep surface, which can be built cheaply +/- supplemented with thrift store/salvaged items.  I used styrofoam sheet insulation and it's ~$8-13 for a 4'x8' sheet.  I haven't needed a heater.

Ian C wrote: Depends how much time you plan to spend in it. If you're going on an extended trip and plan to live out of the thing for months at a time then things like a heater, kitchen, outlets, lights, curtains, etc etc all have massive benefits. 

It feels like those guys who like to trick out their bikes more than ride them

Save the $ for freedom.

I spent $10k on materials for my conversion, but I live out it seasonally.  I also did all the work myself.  A bed platform is fine, but if that's all you want, get a pickup.  For me, I wanted to be able to live comfortably.  I can bake cinnamon rolls and make coffee without leaving bed...just saying.  

http://www.reddit.com/r/vandwellers

  <- all the info/FAQs/DIY tutorials/etc. you'll need

Chad Hiatt wrote: I spent $10k on materials for my conversion, but I live out it seasonally.  I also did all the work myself.  A bed platform is fine, but if that's all you want, get a pickup.  For me, I wanted to be able to live comfortably.  I can bake cinnamon rolls and make coffee without leaving bed...just saying.  

Pics or it didn't happen   

Expenses will all depend on a) if you actually live out of it or not, b)use it as your primary vehicle, c) want something that resembles an actual home or something that is simple, and d) the type of van (don't get a bus....) you purchase. Also factor in the manufacturer, year, model, and fuel it takes - some are more known to have specific engine/transmission/etc. issues than others.

I have a 2015 transit connect (the baby version) and I just built a bed platform, 3 long pullout draws and a shelf. I use bungee cords excessively. "Build" Cost was under $300. The van was 10K (I traded in my previous car so that helped with paying most of the cost). I didn't insulate or add a stove or a fan...nothing fancy. More weight = more fuel. This is my primary ride, and I live out of it 50/50....I should just commit already.

Matt S. wrote:

Pics or it didn't happen   

Pics in the link.  The bed pulls out so you can reach the oven one side of the walkway and the fridge on the other. Coffee stays in the drawer by the bed.  Read em and weep.  ;) 

https://www.mountainproject.com/forum/topic/115331425/2017-ram-promaster-2500-159-wheelbase-146-cargo-gasser-33k-miles

Tradiban wrote: I don't know why everyone feels this compulsion to "build out" a vehicle. Fabricate a platform to sleep on, you're done.

Van or bus? Van, better mpg, duh.

I tend to agree with this. I sleep in  subaru Forester on a sheet of plywood. Basically camping without the hassle of setting up and breaking down a tent or hammock. Great for midday naps at work too, but dont tell my boss.

Thank you to every one that responded. You were all a great help