With time, the US has seen an increasing number of people decide to live the camper life. Converting a minivan into a camper offers a lot of freedom to move around, explore new places, and practice a sustainable lifestyle.
When living in a camper, you will need to run many appliances and charge up your devices. To do this, you can get a Jackery Solar Generator that can run most of the appliances in your camper while recharging using solar energy. This way, you can ensure that your life in the camper is comfortable because of the solar generator, and you’re always connected to your loved ones when you’re out on the road.
Key Takeaways
This section summarizes some of the key takeaways from this detailed guide:
- Due to its smaller size, converting a minivan to a camper is much more affordable than converting an entire RV.
- There are various vehicles from brands like RAM, Mercedes, and Ford, among others, that you can convert to campers.
- Like any other process, a minivan conversion comes with its pros and cons.
- A minivan conversion can cost you anywhere from under $10,000 to over $100,000.
- A Jackery Solar Generator is a versatile and reliable power backup option that can run most of your camper’s appliances.
Can I Convert a Minivan Into a Camper?
Yes, there are various minivans that you can convert into a camper. While you’ll find ready-made campers in the market, you can also choose to DIY the whole process. However, if you’re going down the DIY route, you’ll have to ensure that the camper you purchase has foldable seats that can make way for a sleeping area.
If not, you can also go for something like a Volkswagen Transporter that has foldable seats and other camping conversions built into it from the factory. However, other than this model, there are also several others that you can consider if you want to DIY your camper build. Some of the options include:
- Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari:These minivans were discontinued in 2005, but you can still find plenty of them in the used car market.
- Ford Transit Connect: The Ford Transit Connect is one of the most popular minivans, and it also offers you the flexibility of a conversion. Keep in mind that this is the compact version of the Ford Transit cargo van.
- RAM Promaster City: One of the many reasons campers love the RAM is that it has one of the boxiest cabins. As a result, it allows you to make the most of its silhouette.
- Nissan NV200:While the Nissan is slightly narrower than the other vans on this list, it remains popular as a miniature van that can be converted into a camper.
- Mercedes Metris:While the Mercedes Sprinter is its most popular minivan, the Metris is its smaller version. However, it’s bigger than the ones listed above, offering more space on the inside.
Pros and Cons of Minivan to Camper
As with any process, converting a minivan conversion has its advantages and drawbacks. This section describes each of them in detail.
Pros of Converting a Minivan Into a Camper
Here are some of the advantages of converting a minivan into a camper:
- Converting a minivan into a camper is a budget-friendly option for many, especially since a larger camper or an RV can be an expensive option. As a result, the overall cost of the conversion is also a lot more affordable.
- Since minivans are a lot more compact than RVs, they’re easy to maneuver and can easily fit into tight parking spaces. They’re also easy to drive through windy mountain roads or go off the tarmac.
- A minivan’s compact size also makes it a lot more fuel-efficient. The lower gas bills, in turn, will make your travels a lot more affordable.
- Since minivans are so popular, you can even use them to stealth camp without drawing any unnecessary attention to yourself in urban or suburban spaces.
- Taking the DIY route also allows you to customize the camper’s interiors based on your needs and tastes. From the choice of materials to the appliances, everything remains under your control.
- Since most major minivans are also reliable, maintaining them becomes easier in the long run. Finding replacement parts or service centers also won’t be a challenge.
Cons of Converting a Minivan Into a Camper
Here are some of the disadvantages of a minivan conversion:
- Minivans, unlike RVs, offer limited space on the inside. As a result, you’ll have to ensure you travel light and only carry your essentials.
- Minivans also often lack amenities such as a full bathroom, a kitchen, or storage spaces dotted around the cabin like a bugger RV does.
- A minivan’s compact size also means they have less living space inside. As a result, you’ll likely be spending a lot of time outdoors and have to find spaces that can accommodate such an arrangement.
- Unlike a minibus converted to an RV, a minivan can lack insulation, which can become a problem in colder areas or during the winter. As a result, you’ll have to find alternatives to keep yourself warm and comfortable.
- A minivan conversion will likely impact its resale value. While it can be a good investment if you’re sure you’re never going to sell it, you should consider this aspect otherwise.
Costs of Minivan to Camper Conversion
One advantage of converting a minivan into a camper is that it can be much more affordable than converting a larger Skoolie into an RV. Several costs, such as flooring, insulation, water pumps, and so on, are often negated, making them a good option for someone who doesn’t want to spend too much on their conversion.
However, keep in mind that the amount you invest in the conversion will also depend on whether you’re buying a brand-new or used minivan. If it’s the latter, the condition of the minivan will also play a crucial role. This section illustrates some of the major costs associated with this process.
- Prepping the Van: Prepping the van will involve stripping it of many of its existing amenities, such as seats and storage compartments, and prepping all the surfaces using an aluminum primer, rust protector, and other such metal treatments. This could cost you anywhere between $20 and $30.
- Sound-Distorting Material: Sound-distorting material will be crucial to ensure adequate privacy and that you hear less of the noise outside when you want your living space to be calm. This could cost between $150 and $200.
- Insulation: Insulating your cabin will ensure its thermal efficiency and make your living space comfortable, particularly in colder temperatures. Depending on the quantity and quality of the materials you choose, this could set you back anywhere between $800 and $1,000.
- Flooring Materials: The flooring material will involve a base, some wood for the framing, and other equipment. It will cost between $500 and $700.
- Vents and Windows: If you plan on sticking to the original windows, you can save a lot of money. On the other hand, if your cabin doesn't have any windows, putting in the necessary glass panes and vents will cost you between $800 and $1,000.
- Interiors: Depending on the wood you use, all the wood and other materials for the framing can cost between $400 and $600.
- Kitchen Materials: Once again, whether or not you need any kitchen materials will depend on the amount of space you have in your minivan. Regardless, depending on your choice of materials, this could cost you around $1,500-$2,000.
- Bedroom: Setting up a bedroom will be crucial to ensuring you have a comfortable sleeping space when you’re out on the road. This could cost you around $200-$400.
- Bathroom: Like the kitchen, installing a bathroom will depend on the size of your minivan. If you opt for one you can expect to pay between $800-$1,000 for all the materials.
The table below shows you a simpler breakdown of all these costs for your reference:
|
Minivan to Camper |
Breakdown Costs |
|
Prepping the Van |
$20-$30 |
|
Sound Deadening |
$20-$30 |
|
Insulation |
$150-$200 |
|
Flooring |
$800-$1,000 |
|
Vents and Windows |
$500-$700 |
|
Interiors |
$400-$600 |
|
Kitchen |
$1,500-$2,000 |
|
Bedroom |
$200-$400 |
|
Bathroom |
$800-$1,000 |
Minivan to Camper Conversion Essentials
When you convert a minivan to a camper, there are certain essentials that you will need to consider. These will make life in your camper much more comfortable and are worth investing in. This section explores some of these key essentials one by one.
- Water Source: The first thing you’ll need is a water source. You can start by carrying water with you, but you could also invest in a portable water filter to give you continuous access to clean drinking water on the go.
- External Power Source: Living in a camper will require an external power source. This is because you will have to ensure you can run all your essential appliances and recharge your devices when your van’s engine isn’t running. A Jackery Solar Generator can be a good solution.
- Camping Equipment: When you’re living out of a camper, you’re bound to take some time off at designated campgrounds and enjoy a bit of the outdoors. This will require some essential camping essentials like a campervan awning to keep you protected from the rain, foldable camping chairs, a lantern, and fire-starting equipment. However, always ensure you follow the campground’s rules and regulations when lighting fires, and ensure you put them off completely after.
- Window Coverings: Window coverings hit two birds with one stone: they provide insulation and privacy, especially when you’re camping out in urban or suburban areas. You can choose from a variety of different materials, one of which includes using a reflective one that creates a greater sense of light inside your camper.
- Rooftop Storage: Longer camping trips will require some form of rooftop storage, especially since a minivan is generally much smaller than a dedicated RV and has a lot less storage on offer. A rooftop cargo storage box should do the trick.
- Flushable Toilet: A flushable toilet is an absolute essential when living in a camper. It reduces your dependence on washrooms in public spaces and makes the van life a lot more comfortable. These generally come with a tank that can hold fresh water along with a specific quantity of waste.
- Food Storage: Carrying essential food is just as essential as water. However, with limited space in minivans, you can consider going for a 3-in-1 drawer that can hold all your basic supplies. However, you might need to incorporate more storage solutions around the cabin if you have a family with kids.
- Important Appliances: You’ll also need certain essential appliances when living in a camper. These include portable AC, rechargeable fans, a grill, and a Jackery Solar Generator to run and recharge most outdoor appliances.
- Miscellaneous Accessories:In addition to the ones mentioned above, there are several other knickknacks that you’ll need to make your life in the camper a lot more comfortable. These include bug spray or mosquito repellent, sunscreen, flashlights, extra batteries, a propane camp stove, etc.
How to Convert a Minivan Into a Camper
Converting a minivan into a camper is a process that will require some time and investment. When you finally get around to doing it yourself, there are certain steps you’ll have to follow.
This section explains each of these steps in detail.
Plan, Design, and Layout
The first step is to visualize what you want your camper to look like from both the inside and the outside. Start by making a checklist of the amount of storage you need and what you intend to keep in it, the appliances you need, and so on.
Once you have your list prepared, you’ll have to measure out the space you have inside, including any protrusions, as you’ll have to do your framing and woodworking around it. The measurements will also set the foundation for the layout of your camper's interiors.
When designing the layout, ask yourself a few questions:
- Does your camper need a new floor, or is the existing one in good condition?
- Do you want a fixed bed frame or a foldable bed that can double up as a seating area during the day?
- Does your camper have the space for a small kitchenette? How much storage will you need?
Answering these questions will give you a good idea of what the layout of your camper will look like. Here is an example of minivan layout.
Decide on a Budget
The next step is to decide on a budget. Consider what grade of materials you intend to use and get multiple quotations from different vendors to see where you can get the best prices. Aside from the flooring, windows, insulation, wood, and so on, you’ll also have to consider the cost of your water filter, flushable toilet, bathroom fittings (if you have the space for one), and your appliances, among other things.
Bedding
The bedding you get for your minivan will depend on how many people you need to accommodate. If you’re just two people, a bed at the back of the camper should serve your needs well. You can also place your bedding on top of a bed of storage cabinets to best use the available space.
On the other hand, if you have kids, you’ll likely have to consider making good use of the vertical space in your camper to accommodate every member comfortably. You’ll also have to consider the bedding you get based on the climatic conditions of the places you’ll be traveling to. If you’re up in the colder mountains, you’ll have to ensure that your blankets and other furnishings are designed to keep you warm in such conditions.
Storage: Shelves and Tables
Storage is amongst the most important components of living in a camper. Without adequate storage, the already limited space inside your camper will look messy. Make a few different layouts and plans to find different ways of incorporating storage, such as in the base of a chair, under your bed, or in overhead cabinets.
Additionally, ensure that all the doors to these storage spaces are lockable so they don’t open from vibrations when you’re on the road.
Flooring
Another crucial aspect is the flooring. The first step is to decide whether you want to retain your camper’s existing flooring or if you’d like to strip it out and give it a makeover. Then, you’ll also have to consider the state of the camper’s flooring and the level of rust, especially if you buy a used camper. If your flooring is already rusted, you must gut it, remove it, and spray it down with some rust treatment.
If you already live in a colder place, you can also consider using materials like wood or vinyl for your flooring because of their insulating properties. These materials can help keep your camper warm from the inside, making the whole environment a much more comfortable place to be.
Cooking and Eating
The need for a kitchen and how you plan on cooking will depend entirely on your preferences. If you’re okay with ordering takeout and can pick up some food, you may not need an expensive kitchenette. On the other hand, if you’d like to cook your meals along the way, you must account for all the essentials.
This will include a water tank, a stove, a sink with a faucet that can also double up as a work surface when it’s not being used, and plenty of storage to keep all your cooking essentials.
If you spend a lot of time at campsites, you can also carry a grill or a barbecue with you. This way, you won’t have to restrict yourself to the space inside your camper, as you can make use of the outdoors to cook your meals.
Electricity
Electricity is another key component that you’ll need to run all your appliances and lights in your camper. While all the camper’s electricals will run via its battery, the other appliances will require an additional power supply source.
A Jackery Solar Generator can be a good option in this case. It combines solar panels and a portable power station that you can carry with you wherever you go. The solar panels can charge continuously when you place them under direct sunlight, and you can use the portable power station to connect most of your devices and appliances.
Water
Another crucial step in your minivan conversion is to secure a water supply for your tank. One option you can consider is to have an underbody or an overhead water tank that can cater to your bathroom and kitchen needs. Additionally, you’ll need a water pump to ensure you get adequate water for all the faucets.
Additionally, a portable water filter can be a good thing to have, particularly if you’re not always going to have access to clean drinking water.
Toilet
If you want to be self-sufficient, a wet bath and a toilet will be another important addition to your camper. Your camper will need a gray water tank to collect all the water going down your drains. Additionally, you’ll have to see how much space you have for a shower in your camper.
If you’re short on space, you might consider having a toilet. This will require a wall-mounted unit and a certain part of your freshwater tank dedicated to water for flushing. A black tank will also be important, as it collects sewage waste. While some campers collect these in a black tank, others allow you to connect a sewer hose from your black tank to the sewage, like at an RV park or a campground where you can empty it.
You’ll have to make a decision based on the space available, how you want to get rid of the sewage waste, and whether or not you’ll regularly have access to dedicated campgrounds.
Final Touches
With all the other steps completed, all left is for you to give your almost brand-new camper a few final touches. You can choose to give it a fresh coat of paint and even select your furnishings of choice for the inside.
Next, stock it up with all your essential food, fill the fresh water tank with water, run a final test on all the components, and you’re good to go.
Jackery Solar Generators for Campers
Jackery has been regarded as one of the best manufacturers of solar generators, portable power stations, and solar panels. The Jackery Solar Generators combine the Jackery Portable Power Stations and the Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels. When you place the solar panels under direct sunlight, they absorb solar energy from the sun’s rays and convert it to DC electricity. This is passed through the pure sine wave inverter in the portable power station to convert it to AC electricity.
These solar generators are incredibly versatile and can be used in various situations. For starters, you can use them in your camper. When parked at a campsite, you can place your solar panels outside and use your portable power station to charge most of your devices. You can also carry it with you if you go camping or overlanding.
Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus is an expandable solar generator with a decent capacity to charge most outdoor appliances and essential devices. The solar panels are foldable, so you can carry them wherever you go. The portable power station also has a handle with wheels that makes it easy to carry around. The power station can also be charged via solar charging and a wall outlet, which adds to its versatility.
Appliances Running Time:
- Outdoor Electric Grill (1700W) = 1H
- Kettle (850W) = 2H
- Drone (90W) = 19.2H
- Smartphone (20W) = 59.8H
- Camping Light (3W) = 578.7H
Customer Review:
“I went off-grid with it and we love it. We live in a camper and power up everything for at least 2 days without charging but using everything, so I'm very happy that we got it. We have a small Jackery that we relied on but now we have no problem with power” — Marcin.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 Plus
The Jackery Solar Generator is another expandable solar generator to which you can add three battery packs. It has a decent capacity to run most of your camper’s appliances and charge your devices. Like the previous model, its solar panels can be folded, and the portable power station is easy to carry around, making it perfect for all situations. The portable power station is also shock-resistant and fire-retardent, which adds to its already robust build. This ensures that it’ll last you years without anything to worry about.
Appliances Running Time:
- Kettle (850W) = 1.2H
- Drone (90W) = 11.9H
- Smartphone (20W) = 53.7H
- Camping Light (3W) = 358.3H
Customer Review:
“We've had the unit for a while now and love its ruggedness. The solar panels work great, and the peace of mind of knowing we have a battery backup for all our devices and some appliances is awesome.”--- John.
Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2
The Jackery Solar Generator 1000 v2 is a reliable solar generator with adequate capacity to run most of your camper’s appliances and charge up your devices with fast charging. Moreover, this version comes with an emergency fast charge that can take from no charge to 100% in an hour. As a result, this is a solar generator that you can count on in various situations, including during emergencies when time is of the essence.
Appliances Running Time:
- Kettle (850W) = 1.0H
- Drone (90W) = 10.1H
- Smartphone (20W) = 45.4H
- Camping Light (3W) = 303.1H
Customer Review:
“Love having it for my camping/fishing. Still planning on getting a larger one for around the house if I can afford it and they go on sale. Love having solar panels to charge!” — Roy.
How to Live in a Camper
Life in a camper is influenced by more than just how it's built, and the creature comforts you add to it. A few key tips can make your experience a lot more comfortable and fulfilling, and this section lists them for you to take inspiration from.
- Consider all the costs you will incur while living in a camper, especially if you plan on doing so full-time. This will include the cost of fuel, utilities, maintenance, park fees, insurance, groceries, internet, and eating out, among others.
- Plan all your campsite reservations well in advance. Private RV parks will cost more but offer more amenities, whereas public campgrounds are cheaper but offer fewer amenities and don’t allow for longer stays.
- If you stay in public campgrounds, you must consider getting larger black, gray, and freshwater tanks. On the other hand, private RV parks have amenities to take care of these.
- Ensure that your policy covers full-time travel in a camper, so you’re covered in case of any emergency or expenses.
- Choose a camper large enough to accommodate your family. A small camper can become uncomfortable as your family grows.
Minivan to Camper FAQs
What size of solar generator do I need for my camper?
The size of the solar generator you need for your camper will depend on how many appliances, such as refrigerators, electric kettles, or lamps, you need to run. For example, if you want to power up a larger RV with more appliances, you can consider the Jackery Solar Generator 2000 Plus. If you're using this to charge your smartphone (29W) and kettle (850W) at the same time, you can calculate the working hours as follows:
Working Hours = Battery Capacity in Wh × 0.85 ÷ Operating Wattage of the Appliance = 2042.8Wh × 0.85 ÷ 879W = 1.9H
Note: The 0.85 is the power conversion factor multiplied by the battery capacity to account for power loss when charging the appliances.
How much does it cost to convert a minivan?
The cost of converting a minivan to a camper can range from just under $10,000 to over $100,000, depending on your budget.
Is it worth converting a van to a camper?
While converting a minivan to a camper will not be cheap, it will still save a lot compared to buying a brand-new camper.
What is the most common van to convert?
Some of the most popular vans for a camper conversion include the Ford Transit, the Mercedes Sprinter, the Mercedes Metris, and the Ram ProMaster. These vans offer ample space, reliability, and freedom to customize.
How hard is a camper van conversion?
While converting a minivan to a camper isn’t tricky, it can take some time to complete. However, converting it themselves is much cheaper for many than buying one brand new.
Final Thoughts
Converting a minivan into a camper is a process that requires a lot of consideration. While some consider this a recreational activity, others consider it the way forward for their families. Regardless of your goals, this guide has detailed the considerations and the steps you must follow to convert a minivan into a camper.
One of the most important aspects of your conversion of a minivan into a camper will be some form of power backup. A Jackery Solar Generator can be the ideal solution due to its versatility, ease of use, and reliability. The foldable nature of the solar panels and the handles on the portable power stations make them easy to carry anywhere you go.
Do you have a camper of your own that you spend a lot of time in? How do you ensure you have adequate power backup to meet all your needs? Tell us in the comments below!
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