The appeal of the open road. The freedom of exploration, and the beauty of nature often call to those with a sense of adventure. While RVs and dedicated camper vans offer a comfortable way to experience this lifestyle, they can be costly. Car-to-camper conversions give you a practical, affordable, and customizable solution for turning a vehicle into a mobile living space. This guide explains how to convert a car into a camper. It covers planning, construction, maximizing space, and ensuring safety.
1. Planning and Design
Careful planning is essential before starting any construction. This first phase determines the success and functionality of the conversion. National Geographic suggests beginning by removing the back seats, and potentially having a professional help if needed.
- Measure and Map: Accurately measure the car’s interior. Note the length, width, and height of the cargo area, paying attention to wheel wells and obstructions. Remember that the platform’s size depends on available space. Felicia Fullwood recommends measuring the entire area and planning for a foldable design for easy storage and access. A solid platform is important, especially when building for two people. Consider both vertical and horizontal supports for stability during travel.
- Define Needs: Determine if the travel will be solo or with a partner. Consider the amount of gear needed. Decide if a dedicated cooking area is required. These questions will guide design choices. For instance, a platform that takes up half the backseat might be ideal for a single traveler, leaving the other half for storage.
- Consult Resources: Online forums and communities are full of inspiration and advice. Search for “SUV sleeping platform” or “DIY car camper conversion” to find solutions and learn from others. Passenger Clothing suggests using masking tape and empty boxes to create a mock-up of the layout inside the vehicle.
2. Building the Foundation: Constructing the Platform
With measurements and a design, it is time to gather materials and begin building. Wood is a popular choice for car camper platforms due to its affordability and ease of use. According to Compass Camper, ¾-inch plywood is a common choice for the platform surface, while 2×4 lumber is ideal for framing.
- Gather Materials: Acquire wood (plywood, lumber), hinges, screws, and any finishing materials like carpet or foam padding. Two Wandering Soles spent about $150 on supplies for their SUV conversion.
- Cut and Assemble: Cut lumber to the measurements determined during planning. Assemble the platform’s base frame using wood glue and screws, ensuring it’s level and sturdy. If the design includes storage compartments beneath the platform, incorporate these openings during frame assembly.
- Attach the Plywood Top: Secure the plywood sheet(s) to the frame using screws. The design may use a single piece or multiple sections with hinges for storage access. Sand any rough edges for a smooth finish.
- Support and Stability: A stable platform is crucial for safe travel. As noted in a YouTube video, Supports beneath the mainboards should be firmly attached to prevent movement, especially on bumpy terrain. Consider using straps or brackets to secure the platform to the vehicle’s cargo area. National Geographic notes that they attached D-rings to the underside of the platform and used a ratcheted tie-down to secure it to the cargo area of their CR-V.
3. Maximizing Space and Functionality
Car campers need creative solutions to maximize limited space.
- Clever Storage: The area beneath the platform is ideal for storage. Divide this space into compartments using plywood, creating areas for specific gear. Consider drawers or hinged lids for easy access. A trunk hatch is particularly useful for grabbing small items.
- Folding Seats and Headrests: To maximize sleeping space, experiment with folding down rear seats and pushing the driver’s and passenger’s seats forward. Removing the passenger headrest can give you valuable extra inches of length for a more comfortable sleep MY Travel BF reports in their Honda Fit conversion.
- Window Covers and Ventilation: Privacy and temperature control are important. Create window covers using reflective materials to block out light and insulate the interior. Lightweight tulle attached with Velcro tape is a simple solution. Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent condensation buildup, especially during cooler weather. Roof vents, skylights, and side windows can improve airflow.
- Portable Amenities: Since built-in kitchens and bathrooms are rarely feasible in car conversions, use portable alternatives. A portable propane stove, a sink, and a cooler can give you essential amenities without adding bulk or weight. Two Wandering Soles recommends a Coleman propane stove for outdoor cooking.
4. Embracing the Car Camper Lifestyle
Life on the road in a car camper presents unique opportunities and challenges.
- Organization is Key: With limited space, efficient organization is essential. Use behind-the-door organizers, hanging laundry bags, and shoe racks to keep items off the floor. Packing cubes and storage bins can help store belongings. Two Wandering Soles advises maximizing vertical space for storage.
- Visual Aid: A photograph depicting various storage solutions within the car camper, such as hanging organizers or storage bins.
- Stay Connected (and Charged): A reliable power source is essential for charging devices and powering small appliances. A car inverter, a portable battery pack, or a solar panel setup can provide power. The Bestek 300W Power Inverter is a good option for plugging in devices while driving.
- Adapt and Adjust: Car camping requires flexibility and resourcefulness. Be prepared to adapt plans as needed. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the setup and make adjustments based on experiences.
- Safety First: Prioritize safety at every stage. Secure all fittings and appliances to prevent movement during travel. Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, especially if using a stove or heater. Ensure proper ventilation and avoid risks associated with improper gas installations.
- Legal and Ethical Considerations: Become familiar with local regulations before starting the conversion. Ensure the vehicle complies with safety standards and weight limits. Respect private property and leave no trace when camping in undeveloped areas. Always prioritize safe road handling and avoid exceeding the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR).
5. Beyond the Build: Life on the Road
The car camper lifestyle offers a blend of freedom and simplicity.
- Building Community: Connect with other car campers and van lifers online through forums and social media groups. These communities provide resources, advice, and opportunities to share experiences. The Facebook group “VanLife – USA” is a good starting point.
- Embracing the Unexpected: Expect things to go wrong on the road. Be prepared for breakdowns, weather changes, and connectivity challenges. Flexibility and problem-solving skills are essential.
- Staying Healthy: Prioritize well-being. Stay connected with friends and family, establish routines that incorporate exercise and healthy meals, and seek support when needed. Use public spaces like libraries, parks, coffee shops, and gyms to maintain a sense of normalcy and engage in social interactions.
Conclusion
Converting a car into a camper is a journey of creativity, resourcefulness, and self-discovery. By carefully planning, constructing, and outfitting a mobile dwelling, the freedom to explore the world is unlocked. Prioritize safety, embrace the challenges and rewards of life on the road, and connect with the community of car campers and van lifers. The open road awaits.
Credits
This article is based on the information and examples found in the article “How to Do a Car to Camper Conversion For Any Car!” published on the MY Travel BF website. Insights from a YouTube video titled “EASILY CONVERT ANY CAR INTO A CAMPER WITH THESE … were also referenced, along with other online resources. All images mentioned in this article, if displayed, would be sourced directly from the referenced webpages and credited to the original creators at MY Travel BF or the respective YouTube channel owner, or other identified sources.