Small camper vans are an excellent way to live the van life without spending a fortune on your vehicle. Furthermore, these campervans are much more discrete than a high-top van like a Mercedes Sprinter or a Ford Transit.Nobody will ever know you’re inside such a small camper van if you park on any city street in stealth camping style!
We began our van life adventure by living in a Chevy Astro van. This van was fantastic since no one expected someone to live inside. We parked on city streets, in commercial districts, and in marina lots.
Mini camper vans are also more fuel efficient and easy to handle and park. If you’re more of a weekend warrior van lifer, they can fit into most conventional garages.
Do you have a strong desire for a little camper van? Some folks are perplexed as to why I adored my Chevy Astro, which is essentially a glorified minivan.
But I like how easy it is to park and how stealthy it is. Plus, I won’t have to buy as much to outfit it.
If you want a compact camper, you have a few options. You can either buy a custom van or create one yourself.
You can purchase a new or used small cargo van from a dealership, or you can purchase one that has already been customized on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, Ebay, or Facebook camper van for sale groups.
Here are our top recommendations for the best tiny camper vans for sale in the United States.
Table of Contents
1. The Mercedes Metris Small Camper Van
- Price: $26,000-$34,000
- Cargo Volume:199 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:19
- Exterior Length:202 inches
- Exterior Height:75 inches
- Exterior Width:76 inches
- Interior Headroom: 39.6 inches in the 1st row; 41.4 inches in the 2nd row
The Mercedes Metris van was introduced to the North American market in 2015. You can choose between a regular or long wheelbase in the cargo version of this vehicle. It comes in two lengths: standard and extended.
This compact camper van for sale is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine with a 7-speed transmission. With a maximum capacity of 2,502 pounds, the Mercedes Metris can transport more than the other vans. In comparison, the Nissan NV200 carries a payload of 1,480 pounds.
Mercedes Metris vans feature a larger cargo area than the competition, giving you more space to create your campervan. They have a 270-degree swing-open back door or a hatchback tailgate. The appearance resembles a work van, making this vehicle an extremely discreet camper.
The main disadvantage of this van is that it is the most expensive of the smaller vans, requires premium fuel, and is more difficult to park due to its extended wheelbase. Another factor to consider is the size of the windows, which are smaller than those seen on other vans, resulting in less visibility and more privacy.
2. Ford Transit Connect Mini Camper Van
- Price: $24,000-$31,000
- Cargo Volume:104 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:25
- Exterior Length:174.2 inches
- Exterior Length:174.2 inches
- Exterior Height:72 inches
- Exterior Width:72 inches
- Interior Headroom: 46.9 inches
The Ford Transit Connect is a low-cost camper van with excellent fuel economy. It’s been around since 2012, so there are a number of secondhand vans for sale, as well as camper vans that are already built out.
Involve a mechanic in your quest for your new vehicle – Transmission problems have been reported on Transit Connects.
This compact camper van is available with two engines: a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder van and a turbocharged 1.6-liter Ecoboost 4-cylinder. This van’s maximum payload is 1,620 pounds.
This is a relatively small camper van for sale (the second smallest in this class) that does not have the same cargo room or 4WD drive as some of its competitors. It does, however, have twin sliding doors on the sides that make it very easy to air out and access.
The external design makes it a great covert camping vehicle. Furthermore, because it is little, it is easier and less expensive to repair. Furthermore, others claim that while this compact camping van lacks power, it is easy to drive.
3. Ram Promaster City Small Camper Van
- Price: $24,000-$27,000
- Cargo volume:132 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:24
- Exterior Length:188 inches
- Exterior Height:74 inches
- Exterior Width:74 inches
- Interior Headroom: 46 inches
The Promaster City tiny campervan for sale was debuted in 2015 and boasts an efficient highway fuel economy of 28 miles per gallon.
This small van has a cargo volume of 131.7 cubic feet and a cargo area width of 48.4 inches between the wheel wells. This van is second in load space only to the Mercedes Metris.
The Promaster City is powered by a 2.4-liter, 4-cylinder engine and has a payload capacity of 1,886 pounds. It also comes standard with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Owners appreciate how dependable and long-lasting the engine is.
One level above the base cargo van model, or the SLT, you get a van with oil changes every 10,000 miles, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, cruise control, and heated seats.
What is the finest aspect of this agile van? The back walls are practically vertical, making DIY conversion relatively simple. However, it is not available in 4WD and does not have a diesel engine.
4. Nissan NV 200 Compact Cargo Van
- Price: $22,000-$23,000
- Cargo Volume:122 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:25
- Exterior Length:186 inches
- Exterior Height:74 inches
- Exterior Width:68 inches
- Interior Headroom: 41.7 inches
The Nissan NV 200 is a low-cost mini camper van for sale with excellent gas mileage that is designed for city driving. In terms of cargo space, the van falls short of the Metris, Ford Transit Connect, and Promaster City.
With a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine, the NV 200 produces less power than its competitors. This makes it ideal for van lifers who plan to travel vast distances on a regular basis.
Keep in mind that the Nissan NV 200 compact camper van has a maximum payload of 1,480 pounds when planning your DIY campervan project. If you overload this van, it will function poorly.
This van has the advantage of being the least expensive of the group.
5. Toyota Sienna AWD Small Camper Van
- Price: $34,710-$42,250
- Cargo Volume:101 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:22 mpg gas / 35 mpg hybrid
- Exterior Length:204 inches
- Exterior Height:69 – 70 inches
- Exterior Width:79 inches
- Interior Headroom: 40.1 inches in the 1st row; 39.9 inches in the 2nd row; 37.4 inches in the 3rd row
The Toyota Sienna is a popular tiny camper van since it is one of the few modern vans with All-Wheel-Drive. This is one of the best camper vans for boondocking because it is less prone to sand, snow, and muck.
The Sienna is also quite dependable, making it both inexpensive to repair and long-lasting. You will not risk becoming stranded in the desert due to an engine failure.
Furthermore, the Toyota Sienna is larger than some of the best cargo vans mentioned above. Look at this:
The Toyota Sienna: 16′, 8″ long and 6.5′ wide.
The Ford Transit Connect: 14′, 5″ long and 7′ wide.
The Ram Promaster City: 15′,5″ long and 6′ wide.
The huge side sliding door makes getting in and out of the van a breeze, which is ideal for days when you want to set up a tiny outdoor living room under the side awning.
Because the back seats are easily removed, you can convert this minivan yourself, saving a lot of money on the build.
6. Chevy Astro Small Campervan
- Price: $6,000
- Cargo Volume:170 cubic feet
- Exterior Length:189.8 inches
- Exterior Height:75 inches
- Exterior Width:78 inches
- Estimated Combined MPG:15
- Interior Headroom: 39 inches in the front; 38 inches in the rear
If I didn’t include my beloved Chevy Astro van in my list of tiny camper vans for van life, I’d be remiss.
I found this Astro conversion van with only 57,000 miles on Craigslist for $6,000 and made a few tweaks to make it entirely off-grid. Two of us sleep in this dirt-cheap camper van by reclining the back seats into a campervan bed, and I bought two TJ Maxx footstools to extend the bed.
Because of the higher fiberglass roof, we desired a conversion van. Typical Astros have a modest roof and cost around $2,000 or less.
I like how dependable my van is; it never fails us. We converted it gradually over a couple of years, making quick and easy changes as needed. We now have a Mercedes Sprinter van, but we still keep the Chevy Astro in storage and drive it to Mexico to see our yacht.
Here are the modifications I made to my van to make it off-road and off-grid capable:
- GoPower Go Power 1500-watt Industrial Pure Sine Wave Inverter Solar Panel Kit
- There are two deep cycle batteries.
- A 37-quart ARB refrigerator
- Journeys Off-Road BF Goodrich All-Terrain Ko2 Tires 309 with a 3-inch lift kit.
7. Mitsubishi Delica
- Price: $10,000-2,000
- Cargo Volume: not specified
- Exterior Length:189.8 inches
- Exterior Width: 70.67 inches
- Exterior Height:75 inches
- Estimated Average MPG: 28
- Interior Headroom: 48 inches
Looking for something a little different? Consider the Mitsubishi Delica. It’s a sturdy and durable mid-90s Japanese classic minibus that’s also reasonably priced.
The Delica is equipped with 4WD. It’s small, so you can easily find parking even in cities, yet it has a high clearance, so you can go off-road.
This vehicle seats eight passengers and folds flat, allowing you to store them mounted. While driving the Delica is simple, due to its size, you must do so on the wrong side because these beauties have all been imported directly from Japan. Remember that the interior height is only 51.8 inches.
Because this van was not manufactured in the United States, there are no companies who specialize in professional conversions. However, you can modify some of the smaller conversion kits on the market.
8. Honda Element Small Camper Van
- Price: $3,500-$7,000
- Cargo Volume:130 cubic feet (with seats removed)
- Exterior Length:170 inches
- Exterior Width:72 inches
- Exterior Height:70 inches
- Estimated Average MPG: 22
- Interior Headroom: 43 inches at highest point
The Honda Element is a cult SUV camper that is popular among van lifers across the United States. The model was withdrawn in 2011, however in recent years, an increasing number of people have decided to convert used ones into campsites.
It’s simple to spot because to its boxy appearance and distinctive bi-parting doors. The concept is inspired by a lifeguard station. Despite this, it looks exactly like an automobile, making it incredibly covert.
Purchasing a used Honda Element is quite cost effective, with some models starting as little as $3,499. It also has four-wheel drive, so you can go on some exciting off-road excursions. Unlike other minivans, the Element’s cab is relatively tall, allowing you to change inside without having to sit down. Sitting up in bed is also a pleasant experience.
There are no firms that perform professional Honda Element conversions.
9. VW Eurovan Camper
- Price: $10,000-24,000
- Cargo Volume:166.6 cubic feet
- Exterior Length:188.5 inches
- Exterior Width:72.4 inches
- Exterior Height:76.4 inches
- Estimated Average MPG: 20
- Interior Headroom: 41.3 inches
Nothing is more recognizable than a Volkswagen Eurovan Camper. If you’re a fan of these small gems, there are plenty of secondhand and reasonably priced examples on the market.
The gas mileage is excellent, making it suitable for extended road trips throughout the country. The automatic transmission is the VW Eurovan’s weak spot; it can cause issues. When looking at potential vans, it’s a good idea to look into the vehicle’s history and perhaps ask a mechanic to come out and inspect it with you.
The Eurovan was manufactured as a camper (Volkswagen collaborated with Winnebago to produce them) and has been out of production since 2003, hence there are no companies who specialize in converting it. However, you can either clean up the old interior or fully replace it. It is all up to you.
The layout usually included a stove, a sink, and a couch that could be converted into a bed. Some variants even included a pop top, which provided significantly greater internal space. Whether you retain things precisely as they were designed or fully modify them, this little bus makes a wonderful camper.
More VW models have been brought into the United States over the years, including the Combi, Westfalia, and Splittie. These are more difficult to obtain and can be more expensive, but with a little perseverance, you can find them.
10. Dodge Grand Caravan Mini Camper
- Price: from $27,290, new
- Cargo Volume:140 cubic feet with seats removed
- Estimated Combined MPG:20
- Exterior Length:189 inches
- Exterior Height:69 inches
- Exterior Width:79 inches
- Interior Headroom: 39.3 inches
Check out the Dodge Grand Caravan if you prefer a minivan with a lower profile. While it appears to be a car, it is quite long, with lots of space for sleeping.
It can seat up to 7 people and is quite large. It measures 202.8 inches in length, 78.8 inches in width, and 67.9 inches in height. A double bed and a kitchen are easily accommodated. You can cook in the back of the vehicle thanks to the rear hatchback door.
The Dodge Grand Caravan is a popular automobile and camper with a long production history. As a result, replacement parts are readily available. However, finding a used one for sale can be tough.
For the same reasons, it retains its worth well if you plan on purchasing one for a once-in-a-lifetime vacation and then returning to normal life.
11. Honda Odyssey Mini Camper Van
- Price: from $33,040, new
- Cargo Volume:141 cubic feet with seats removed
- Estimated Combined MPG:22
- Exterior Length:205 inches
- Exterior Height:70 inches
- Exterior Width:79 inches
- Interior Headroom: 40.7 inches in the front; 39.5 inches in the middle; 38.3 inches in the rear
Another popular compact but capacious minivan is the Honda Odyssey. With a length of 205.2 inches, this vehicle is also appropriate for taller van lifers.
One disadvantage is that converting the Odyssey into a camper requires removing a row of seats to create a level sleeping platform. So, if you want to convert your automobile into a camper for the weekend, it may take some time.
It’s also dependable and long-lasting, making maintenance simple and cost-effective. Its value, however, does not last long. Choose a used one.
12. Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Mini Camper
- Price: from $27,541 to $56,998
- Cargo Volume:140 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:22
- Exterior Length:204 inches
- Exterior Height:70–71 inches
- Exterior Width:80 inches
- Interior Headroom: 40.1 inches
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid is an alternative to the Honda Odyssey. It’s a 7-seater minivan with nearly equal dimensions and a very similar appearance. As a result, it’s great for covert camping.
Many van lifers construct their beds as large as possible and install drawers underneath them so they may slide out towards the back of the car in order to maximize the space they have available.
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has the benefit of having two rows of seats that fold completely flat into underfloor storage. This enables you to continuously drive the minivan dressed as a car.
Some think it isn’t very trustworthy, though. Transmission lines that are deteriorating cause problems for some. Therefore, it’s crucial that you have a used one examined by an expert before purchasing it.
13. Kia Sedona Micro RV
- Price: $16,000 – $43,000
- Cargo Volume: 142 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:21
- Exterior Length:201.4 inches
- Exterior Height:68.5 inches
- Exterior Width:89.3 inches
- Interior Headroom: 39.8 inches in the front; 39.4 inches in the second row; 38.9 inches in the third row
The Kia Sedona is the only cheap, enjoyable-to-drive minivan you need to consider. Because the seats are easily removed, it is more affordable than high-end vans like the Dodge Grand Caravan and quite simple to convert. Like the majority of minivans, the inside headroom isn’t significantly more than that of comparable, more expensive vehicles.
A platform bed, a small table, and a portable toilet can all be placed inside the Kia Sedona. You may purchase a kit from Road Loft, Freeway Camper Kit, Home On Wheels, or Compass Campers, or you can build a straightforward conversion like the one done above by Hayley and Kevin.
14. Kia Carnival Mini Camper
- Price: from $34,565, new
- Cargo Volume: 145.1 cubic feet
- Estimated Combined MPG:22
- Exterior Length:202.95 inches
- Exterior Height:69.88 inches
- Exterior Width:78.54 inches
- Interior Headroom: 40.9 inches in the front; 39.5 inches in the middle; 38.6 inches in the rear
A multipurpose minivan with plenty of interior room is the Kia Carnival. When fully loaded, it offers a comfortable ride and is simple to operate. The back seats may be readily removed and recline or fold down, giving you several conversion possibilities.
The new Kia Carnivals have a built-in parasol and a quiet interior, making it comfortable to sleep inside.
15. Toyota Rav4 Campervan
- Price: from $28,275
- Cargo Volume: 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded
- Estimated Combined MPG:27
- Exterior Length:180.9 inches
- Exterior Height:67 inches
- Exterior Width:73 inches
- Interior Headroom: 37.7 inches
Popular SUV campers like the Toyota Rav4 can be converted into excellent minimalist campers for lone travelers. Purchasing a 44 vehicle will allow you to travel almost anyplace.
Put a sleeping platform in the back and just remove the back seats. You’ll probably need to construct an addition that you can turn over at night by advancing the front passenger seat. You will be able to keep your camping supplies nearby. The interior of a Rav4 doesn’t have a lot of cargo room, so you’ll probably need to supplement your setup with a roof storage box.
16. Jeep Grand Cherokee Tiny Campervan
- Price: from $40,000 new / from $3,000 used
- Cargo Volume: 70.8 cubic feet with the seats folded
- Estimated Combined MPG:21
- Exterior Length:189 inches
- Exterior Height:68 inches
- Exterior Width:77 inches
- Interior Headroom: 39.4 inches
The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been around for a very long time, so it is a wise choice if you’re looking to buy a cheap SUV to turn into a tiny camper. It’s not difficult to find new components for this car, and the majority of mechanics have already fixed one.
Although there isn’t much space inside, a platform bed and a slide-out kitchen can easily fit.
Additional Automobiles That Make Excellent Small Camper Vans
There are a ton of vehicles available that you can easily modify to become the tiny camper of your dreams. Since we were unable to list them all, we created a list to aid in your research.
These are them:
- Buick Enclave and Enivision
- BMW X3
- Cadillac SRX, XT5, XT6, Equinox, Blazer and Traverse
- Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban
- Dodge Journey
- Ford Escape, Aerostar and Edge
- GMC Acadia, Terrain, Yukon and Yukon XL
- Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe PHEV, Tucson, Palisade and Ioniq 5
- Honda CRV and HRV
- Kia Sorento, Niro EV, Telluride, Seltos and Sportage
- Lexus RX and GX
- Lincoln MKX and Nautilus
- Mazda CX-5
- Nissan Murano, Rogue and Armada
- Subaru Crosstrek, Outback, Forester, Ascent and Solterra
- Tesla Model X
- Toyota Highlander
- Volkswagen Touareg and Tiguan.
Kits for Small Campervan Conversion
After deciding on a model, it’s time to consider your conversion. Purchasing a conversion kit is the most convenient and inexpensive choice.
This is constructed from one or more modular units that are manufactured in a factory before being sent to you (or installed by the manufacturers at the factory). Then, with just a few tools, you can mount them to your van. Your time and money will be saved if you choose a conversion kit.
Let’s examine the businesses that provide conversion kits for minivans.
1. Roadloft – From $4,490 CAD
Kits for Small Campervan Conversion
After deciding on a model, it’s time to consider your conversion. Purchasing a conversion kit is the most convenient and inexpensive choice.
This is constructed from one or more modular units that are manufactured in a factory before being sent to you (or installed by the manufacturers at the factory). Then, with just a few tools, you can mount them to your van. Your time and money will be saved if you choose a conversion kit.
Let’s examine the businesses that provide conversion kits for minivans.
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Chrysler Town and Country
- Chrysler Pacifica and Grand Caravan
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Odyssey
- Kia Sedona
- Kia Carnival
- Ford Transit Connect
- Nissan NV200
When ordering your kit, you must specify the vehicle you intend to install it in. Based on this, the staff at Roadloft will make a kit for your car.
2. Wayfarer Vans – From $5,580
You decided on a Ram Promaster City, right? Ram Promasters can be transformed into campers by Wayfarer Vans. Their Wally kit fits in the Promaster City just right.
It’s a pretty innovative modular set consisting of plywood boxes that when assembled, creates a platform for sleeping. Some of them function as storage when you open them, while others become kitchens. A folding table is also included in the set.
3. Freeway Camper Kit – From $1,249
Another Quebec-based expert in minivan and SUV conversions is Freeway Camper Kit. They come with storage, a slide-out kitchen area for the camper’s back, and a dinette that can be converted into a bed.
You may order your kit with a variety of add-ons, including a sink, a solar generator, a running water system, a folding mattress, and more.
They manufacture particular kits for these vehicles:
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Toyota Sienna
- Honda Element
- Honda Odyssey
- LWB Ford Transit Connect
- Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
- Bounty Hunter Compact
Additionally, they produce six generic kits that can be used with other minivan types. These can fit in the minivans that are specified on the page for each kit.
You’re not quite certain if you want to purchase one of their kits. To test it out, rent one on a trip.
4. VanLab – From $4,750
The Ikea of camper conversion kits is VanLab. They provide your kit in flat packing together with all the installation tools you’ll need and comprehensive instructions. They create two compact kits, one for the Chevy City Express and the other for the Nissan NV200.
Both have a kitchen with a table that can be folded out and two benches that can be converted into beds. You can complement this with an integrated electrical system. Order yours today for delivery or, for an extra $850, have it installed in Simi Valley, California.
5. Egoe Nest – From $2,666
Egoe Nest, based in the Czech Republic, manufactures conversion systems for vehicles and vans and has dealers all over the world. There are three sizes available for the Egoe Nest Box: small, medium, and giant. They have a platform for sleeping as well as a kitchen with room for a refrigerator.
6. Fifth Element Campers – From $4,995
The Asheville, North Carolina-based Fifth Element Campers are experts in converting Honda Element vehicles.
There are no long-term alterations made to the car during the approximately 10-minute installation process. A bench that converts into a bed, a cabinet with a pull-out table, a console, and a kitchen with a side table are all included in the standard package.
The entire bundle need not be purchased, though. Simply select the components you want and place an order to have them sent to you.
7. California Custom Vans – From $3,600
Visit California Custom Vans if you’re looking for a full custom kit. In order to produce a made-to-order DIY conversion kit constructed from sustainable timber, they can work on a range of tiny vehicles.
8. Trail Kitchens – From $1,995
Aluminum stoves, chuck boxes, camping sinks, and portable showers are all made by Trail stoves. Most appliances can be easily taken apart and utilized outside. The Minivan Camper Kitchen provides a roomy and useful surface for cooking at the back of your van and is compatible with many minivan models.
9. Unicamp USA – From $4,000
You may obtain a cool professional conversion from Unicamp USA if you have a Kia Carnival that you want to convert into a tiny camper. They are experts in converting Kia Carnivals into little RVs.
You can choose a basic kit with a platform bed and a slide-out kitchen if your Carnival has enough room for it. You could build a pop top if you’d prefer to have a separate bedroom. This will provide a second bed and give you additional headroom to change or use the restroom inside the automobile.
Van conversion businesses that specialize in small vans
As more and more individuals realize they don’t need a large car to hit the road and go on adventures, small camper vans are growing in popularity. Because of this, there are now numerous businesses that specialize in turning tiny vans into campers.
A professional conversion is ideal for you if you are determined to convert your car into a camper to use on a regular basis and don’t mind waiting. Bring your van to the warehouse to pick it up as a camper so you can go camping the same night without having to move a finger.
1. Contravans
Several van models, including the Mercedes Metris, Nissan NV200, Ford Transit Connect, and Ram Promaster City, are specially converted by Colorado-based Contravans. To fit a kitchen and dinette, they make the most of the available space in each van.
2. Paved to Pines
Although situated in Canada, Paved to Pines also constructs campers for customers in the US. They can outfit your vehicle, so it’s worth contacting them to inquire. They work on Mercedes Metris and Transit Connects. Their conversions appear stylish and welcoming.
3. Van Specialties
While mostly concentrating on Sprinters, Transits, and Ram Promasters, Van Specialities is situated in Oregon and can convert practically any car or truck, including smaller vans and vintage or classic cars.
4. Ursa Minor
A camper production firm called Ursa Minor has a second headquarters in Portland, Oregon, and is based in San Diego, California. The Honda Element and the LWB Ford Transit Connect are converted by the men.
They can upgrade the tent with a pop-top sleeper, rack systems, USB ports, 60-watt solar panels, or 12V outlets and lighting. Every conversion comes with a mattress. You may either DIY the modification or buy a conversion kit to add a kitchen and dinette because the cab will remain unaltered.
5. Oasis Campervans
Oasis Campervans is a Colorado-based company that expertly converts several minivan types. These are a little less expensive than those of the competition because they are available in regular or premium bundles.
6. Peace Vans
Peace Vans, a Seattle, Washington-based company, specializes in turning Mercedes Metris into pop-top campers. A Weekender with a platform bed and a pop top is an option, as is a Full Camper with two beds and a kitchen.
7. GTRV
GTRV, a company based in California, turns Mercedes Metris, Toyota Sienna, and Nissan NV 200 into compact campers. If you like the way their work looks, they also provide custom work.
8. Keystone Coachworks
Do you need a Metris converted? You should look into Keystone Coachworks if you reside in or near Oregon. They are experts at turning the Metris into a miniature RV equipped with a pop-up roof, kitchen, electrical system, shore power, and other features.
9. Cascade Campers
The Ram Promaster City is transformed by Cascade Campers into a miniature RV with all the amenities you require. In this little vehicle, they can accommodate a bench bed, an inside kitchen with a fridge, and storage cabinets. If all you want is the kitchen unit, you may purchase the pod for $1,950 and do the installation yourself. From California, they ship it all throughout the US.
10. Craft Autoworks
In Reno, Nevada, Craft Autoworks produces a comparable conversion for the Promaster City with a pop top. This gives you extra living space in the back of the automobile because you can utilize the cargo area as a kitchen and living room.
11. Recon Campers
By adding a pop-top, electrical system, butane stove, kitchen with fridge and sink, storage drawers, and other features, Recon Campers turn the Nissan NV 200 into a full camper.
12. Caravan Outfitters
The men at Caravan Outfitters turn the Ford Transit Connect and Mercedes Metris into mobile residences. Since their adaptations are essentially constructed to order, you may expand your setup with a ton of equipment. In Washington’s Edmonds, you can locate them.
13. Apex Vans
Apex Vans, based in Massachusetts, offers specialized conversion services for Nissan NV 200 owners. They have a kitchen with a sink and cooler, as well as a platform bed that unfolds into a bench that measures 42 by 74 inches.
Cargo or passengers for small camper vans?
The majority of these small camper vans for sale are available in either a cargo van or a passenger van form. Which one you select will depend on the campervan build that you want.
Advantages of owning a compact camper van:
A compact camper van is a great option with lots of benefits. Being small makes it inexpensive to operate, simple to park, and enjoyable to maneuver. Any National Park, ferry, or parking lot with size restrictions will also be accessible to you.
You won’t appear to be a wild camper to most people because minivans and cargo vans generally have a highly discreet appearance. Additionally, your conversion doesn’t have to be elaborate or permanent, allowing you to continue using your car for work. A smaller van is a great option if you don’t intend to live in it full-time.
Cons of owning a compact camper van:
- Although you could install a pop-top, you are unable to stand up.
- Very little space; you’ll have to cook outside.
- Much less room in a campervan for what you would want
- You can’t put too much stuff in it.
- Not as powerful an engine as larger vans
- You’ll need to use the restroom in the wild.
- because of the strange inner shapes, difficult to deal with
Naturally, there are certain drawbacks to tiny camper vans. Due to its limited size, you will probably need to cook and use the restroom outside. You will have to sit or lie down to change, unless you don’t mind doing it in the open. Additionally, the engine isn’t as strong as those in larger vans, so you’ll need to keep it light to keep it running properly.
- fantastic mileage
- less expensive than larger vans
- easier to park and move around
- can occupy a conventional parking space and garage
- you may still utilize it as a regular car despite its eerie appearance.
The interior of a small van is quite curved, making it difficult to convert it into a camper. You’ll need to be inventive with your DIY conversion or purchase one that has already been created.
Design Ideas for a Small Camper Van Conversion You Can Do Yourself
Of course, you have the option to do it yourself. It’s a fantastic method to cut costs while creating the conversion of your dreams. Carefully planning the floor layout will be necessary to maximize the use of the interior space.
Based on how you plan to use the small camper van, make a list of your priorities. Will the summer be the major time you travel? Will you primarily camp outside or close to towns? You can choose which equipment and features to prioritize in your design once you’ve laid out these elements.
Kitchen Layouts for Tiny Campers
You have three major choices for the galley: a slide-out drawer, a kitchen box, and a kitchen pod. A kitchen box or a slide-out drawer are excellent ways to maximize the space in your car if you intend to spend the most of your time outdoors during warm weather. Instead, choose a compact cooking pod you can install inside the van so you can cook indoors no matter the weather if you spend a lot of time in chilly climates.
Design Ideas For Small Campers
The bed is the most crucial component of the construction. While cooking or relaxing, you may easily put up with some discomfort, but getting a good night’s sleep is crucial. A fixed platform bed, a bench that slides out or folds, a dinette that converts into a bed, or a pop-top are all options. To avoid spending all of your time lying in bed, it is preferable to choose a pop top, dinette, or bench if you wish to spend some time inside your van. Keep things simple with a platform bed if, on the other hand, you’re content to travel in the van solely at night.
Systems For Small Camper Vans’ Energy
You might choose to spend your money on a portable battery, such as a Jackery, as a compact van doesn’t have much room for solar panels and batteries. If you don’t need to consume a lot of power on your vacations, this can work really well. It could safely charge both your phone and a cooler. If you’re traveling alone, you could definitely install one or two solar panels on the roof and bring one battery with you. But before you go shopping, consider how much weight you’re adding to your vehicle.
Design Of A Bathroom For A Mini Camper
Carrying a portable toilet is the only way to fit a restroom in a small van, of course. Make careful to incorporate this into your bed’s design; the toilet must slide out from underneath the platform. You might even construct a drawer for it so that it can be neatly stored away when not in use.
Inspiration for DIY little camper designs
Here are some of our top homemade tiny camper van modifications. Some are sophisticated and have a ton of essential equipment, while others are simple and have no furnishings at all.
You can build a rig that will take you on enjoyable adventures no matter your resources or level of expertise.
1. Nissan NV 200 DIY small camper van
This Italian couple decided to add a couch bed and a kitchenette to their Nissan NV 200 since they frequently travel and require a warm, comfortable place to unwind.
2. DIY Mercedes Metris camper
When designing their Mercedes Metris, Marty and Spin went all out. They constructed a kitchenette that was connected to the back doors, along with a bench bed with cabinets next to it.
3. Ford Transit Connect Full Camper
How comfy does this DIY makeover of a Ford Transit Connect look? A wonderful little kitchen and an L-shaped couch that can be converted into a bed are also within. We adore how Evan, the owner, coated every wall in the house with gorgeous wood.
4. No-tools Dodge Grand Caravan Camper
Don’t want to spend a lot of time learning how to make your own furniture and don’t have any tools? This Dodge Grand Caravan conversion shows that you can still create a useful DIY setup by packing your minivan with your favorite pieces of equipment.
5. No-build Chrysler Pacifica Campervan
To go camping in your minivan, though, you don’t need to build or install anything. See how Tristan just stuffed all his camping gear into his sister’s borrowed Chrysler Pacifica and turned it into a weekender.
For a little camper van conversion, some gear ideas
Are you prepared to begin organizing your own conversion?
Here are some gear suggestions to finish your camper, regardless of whether you’re opting for a custom build, conversion kit, or DIY rig:
- Camping stove
- Water boiler
- Portable toilet
- Electronic safe to hide in the storage
- Rechargeable battery bank
- Portable solar kit
- Cooler or fridge
- Small portable power bank
- USB lights
- USB fans
- Portable camp or solar shower
- Bluetooth speaker
- Camping table and chairs
- Portable fairy lights
- Side awning
- Roof box for extra storage
- Hand vacuum
- Portable propane heater
- Water filter
- Portable laundry wash bag
- Hammock(s)
- Portable coffee grinder and Aeropress
- Hanging mesh pockets
- Packing cubes.
The Bottom Line for Small Cargo Vans for Camper Conversion
There are several options available on the market if you’re seeking for a tiny van to convert into a DIY camper. Depending on the type of campervan build you desire, you can decide between a cargo van and a passenger van.
Also keep in mind that you can convert your tiny cargo van into a camper by purchasing a car camping conversion kit. Consequently, you won’t have to do everything by yourself!
The Mercedes Metris van is the most spacious inside, but it also costs between $26,000 and $34,000. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Nissan NV200 has the least amount of storage room for a van construction and is most affordable at $22,000 to $23,000. Then there are the well-known vintage SUVs, such the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which start at just $4,000. You can locate the ideal vehicle for your needs, no matter what your budget is.
You’ll need to carefully review the specifications of each of these small camper vans to decide which is best for you.
You might also want to read these RV Camping Tips and Guides:
- What Are the Common Winnebago Micro Minnie Issues?
- 9 Best Micro Campers on the Market
- The Most Effective Rooftop RV Air Conditioner
- 10 of the Best Small Campers with Bathrooms for 2023
- Winnebago Micro Minnie: A Review
