Whether you plan to build out your own van or work with a conversion company, you should always want to come up with ways of making it your own and doing something to add originality. Too often, we see similar “factory- produced” looking vans with the same interiors! Mix it up and use various sources for inspiration. Try to avoid doing the classic “I want that one!”. Different things work for different people, so find what works best for you.
Here are a few of my favorite, unique builds that are a great source of inspiration for your next build!
Meet Caroline and her van, Roxi! This conversion took place while Caroline was finishing up college as an Environmental Policy student. Her studies and passion lead her to building her van entirely with non- toxic materials like wool insulation and a natural latex mattress. A couple other things that set this van apart from all others are the swing (you heard me) and projector! Caroline installed a swing that she can change out for her table whenever she wants! She also has a projector that allows her wall to be turned into a tv screen.
Liz has one of those vans that make you go “why didn’t I do that?”. First of all, I must mention she is a solo female traveler which deserves so much respect on it’s own. She doesn’t allow fear to interrupt her life or stop her from living out her dreams. This build is awesome because the kitchen is in the back which makes for some amazing, different photos. Liz also had the shower installed across from the sink and got a faucet with a hose.. This allows her to wash her entire shower with the hose! Genius. Follow her Instagram for some great #vanlife hacks and info.
If this isn’t your dream van, I’m at a loss for words. Zak has a van that most of wish we could get our hands on. He managed to get ahold of a brand spanking new Sprinter with a 170″ wheelbase AND it’s 4×4. Fully equipped with a guest bed (that doubles as a work station) plus Dometic everything, this one makes van life look like luxury. Zak also installed a full wall separating the cab from the back. There is a door in the middle that allows easy access back and forth, but truly looks like a work/business van from the outside. It’s the van of all vans if I’ve ever seen one.
This is Matt and his pup @wilsonflynn! Besides being one of the best guys we’ve met on the road, Matt has such a unique van that has the coziest vibes and makes you want to cuddle with Mr. Wilson Flynn all day long (..so I did). He even has an oven that works off propane and makes it feel like a real house! There’s a roof deck on top for the best views, a soda stream that Edgar almost steals every time, and video production monitors that I had no idea you could have in a van. Matt is living the van life right.
For the finale, meet Dennis and his 2017 Promaster! His van is unique in many ways including the tub he installed with a shower hose. This is awesome because it takes up far less space than a full shower as it just sits a foot or so off the ground. Dennis also prefers sleeping in a hammock so he skipped building a bed and hangs the hammock along the length of his van. This frees up so much space and makes for some amazing photos out the back with nothing blocking the view.
Thank you to all of the beautiful people above for allowing me to feature you and your hard work.