Living in a converted van can be an incredible adventure that offers the freedom to explore new places and live life on your own terms. However, as with any lifestyle, it comes with its own unique challenges and considerations. One of the most important aspects of van life is having the right accessories to create a comfortable and functional living space on the road.
Turn Your Van into a Cozy Home on Wheels!
Whether you’re a seasoned van lifer or just starting to consider the lifestyle, choosing the right accessories can make all the difference. From comfortable bedding to portable stoves, the right gear can help you save money, live off the grid, and maximize your space. But with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
In this article, we’ll cover 10 must-have accessories for your converted van:
- Bedding and Mattresses
- Portable Stoves
- Solar Panels
- Portable Toilets
- Portable Showers
- Storage Solutions
- Fans and Heaters
- Lighting
- Mosquito Nets
- Entertainment Systems
We’ll explain the benefits of each accessory and provide tips on how to choose the right one for your needs. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy living space or explore the great outdoors, these accessories will help you make the most of your van life experience. So let’s dive in and discover the essentials for your converted van!
😴 Bedding and Mattresses
Sleep is crucial, and a good night’s sleep can make or break your van life experience. That’s why investing in a comfortable and high-quality mattress and bedding is essential. A memory foam mattress can provide great comfort, and investing in a high-quality sleeping bag or a duvet can keep you cozy even on the coldest nights.
A great tip is to sleep both on top of and under a duvet on cold nights!
If you don’t have a full kitchen on board, eating out can get expensive. Having a portable stove can save you a lot of money in the long run. A small stove that runs on propane can be a great addition to your converted van. Plus, it’s easy to use, and you can cook a variety of meals on it.
There are a load of choices out there – from the very low budget, to the all-out expensive. A strong contender for the best portable camper van stove is the Primus Tupike. It’s very compact for a 2-burner stove & it’s lifted to create extra space on your camper table.
☀️ Solar Panels
Having a reliable source of power is crucial when you’re living off the grid. Solar panels are a fantastic way to generate your own electricity and keep your appliances charged. Plus, they’re eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.
This is such a large topic, it’s a whole blog of its own, but we couldn’t ignore them! Whether your camper is solared-to the max with roof panels, or you opt for a smaller set-up – such as the Jackery SolarSaga Portable Solar Panel shown here, solar panels are essential for off-grid van life. We love this for its trouble-free connection, compact foldable design and budget-friendly. 60w & 100w options.
🧻 Portable Toilets
One of the biggest challenges of van life is finding a restroom when you need it. A portable toilet can save you from many uncomfortable situations. They’re easy to use, and you can empty them at any convenient location.
Again, this is a whole topic of its own. If you want to talk camper van toilets, here’s the article for you: Campervan Toilet Talk: The Questions You’re Just Desperate to Ask
🚿 Portable Showers
Who says you can’t shower while living in a van? If you don’t have a camper van with a bathroom on board, a portable shower can be a game-changer for your van life experience. They’re compact, easy to use, and can be heated with solar energy.
What do we think is the best portable shower for a camper van? Well, get ready for the ultimate portable shower experience with the Rinse Kit! While it may not be the most portable option out there, this bad boy has some serious advantages that are worth the extra effort. With a hard shell case that can hold up to 14 liters of water, the Rinse Kit weighs in at a manageable 10KG when it’s full. You can easily fill it up using the included faucet adapter from any tap or water outlet.
But that’s not all – the Rinse Kit has a mind-blowing feature that automatically pressurizes itself to around 65PSI in just 20 seconds, providing you with a full 6 minutes of shower time with the included shower head. And if that wasn’t enough, there are a ton of accessories available, including a hot water adapter to warm up your water on the go. Bonus: it doubles as a seat!
So if you want the ultimate shower experience on the go, the Rinse Kit is the way to go. There are a bunch of different options available, priced from around $90 upwards – buy online.
When choosing a portable shower, consider factors such as size, ease of use, and power source. Look for a shower that is easy to set up and use, has a reliable water supply, and is compatible with your campervans power system.
🗃️ Storage Solutions
Space is limited in a converted van, so having efficient storage solutions can help you maximize the space you have. You can use hanging organizers, collapsible storage containers, and magnetic racks to keep everything in place and organized.
And it doesn’t all have to be functional – storage can be cute! Get creative, you can make extra storage out of just about anything – just like this copper pipe storage in @messygenius’ VW Crafter camper van.
😎 Fans and Heaters
Staying comfortable in different weather conditions is essential, and having a fan or heater can make all the difference. A small 12v USB powered fan will keep you cool in hot weather if you don’t have air con, while a diesel heater is a must for staying warm during cold nights.
💡 Lighting
Good lighting can make your van feel more like a home. LED fairy lights are an excellent choice for van life because they’re energy-efficient and have a long lifespan. You can install them under your cabinets or in your ceiling to create a cozy atmosphere.
🦟 Mosquito Nets
Let’s face it: mosquitos are the ultimate party poopers when it comes to van life. But don’t worry, we’ve got some tips to help you keep them at bay! First things first, keeping your doors and windows closed is the most practical way to keep those pesky bugs out. But during those hot summer nights, that’s easier said than done. That’s where bug nets come to the rescue!
Sure, you could DIY your own bug screens with magnetic insect netting to save some cash, but be warned: even the tiniest gap can lead to an unwelcome mosquito invasion.
If you’ve got some extra cash to spare, some companies offer custom mosquito nets specifically designed for vans. These nets seal all the way around and even have an opening door to let in the fresh air while keeping the bugs out. Just be warned, finding the right one for your camper can be a real challenge!
If you’re up for the challenge of adapting your own camper van mosquito nets, these magnetic insect netting kits are a good bet.
📽️ Entertainment Systems
Staying entertained while living in a van is essential. You can install TV, but beware of the power drain and weight. Many vanlifers prefer a projector to create a movie theater experience. Plus, having a good book or board game can also be a great way to unwind after a long day on the road.
🧯 Safety Accessories
Last but not least, having safety accessories in your converted van is crucial. You can install a fire extinguisher, a carbon monoxide detector, and a First aid kit to ensure your safety on the road. Additionally, having a GPS device and a reliable communication device can also be beneficial in case of emergencies.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, van life can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but having the right accessories can make all the difference. By investing in these ten must-have accessories for your converted van, you can create a comfortable and convenient living space on the road. Don’t be afraid to get creative and find accessories that suit your unique needs and style.
Key Takeaways
- Prioritize safety: Always choose accessories that prioritize safety, such as smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers.
- Keep it organized: Use storage accessories to keep your van tidy and organized. This will help you find what you need quickly and easily.
- Be efficient: Choose accessories that are multi-functional and can serve multiple purposes, such as a foldable table that can also be used as a bed.
- Customize your van: The beauty of converting a van is that you can customize it to your liking. Choose accessories that reflect your personality and make you feel at home on the road.
- Research and plan: Before investing in any accessories, do your research and make a plan for what you need. This will save you time and money in the long run.
- Don’t forget about maintenance: While it may not be as exciting as choosing accessories, keeping up with regular maintenance and repairs is crucial for the longevity of your van.
- Consider the environment: Choose accessories that are environmentally friendly and sustainable, such as solar panels and composting toilets.
- Test before you buy: If possible, test out accessories before you buy them to make sure they work well in your van and meet your needs.
- Have fun: Converting a van and choosing accessories can be a fun and exciting process. Enjoy the journey and make memories along the way.
- Join the community: There is a large community of van lifers out there who are eager to share their experiences and knowledge. Join forums and social media groups to connect with other van dwellers and learn from their experiences.
FAQs About the Best Converted Van Accessories
Can I use a regular mattress in my converted van?
While you can technically use a regular mattress, it’s important to choose a mattress that is designed for your van’s size and shape, to maximize space and comfort while minimizing weight.
How do I know how many solar panels I need for my van?
The number of solar panels you need depends on your power consumption needs. You can calculate your power needs by adding up the wattage of your appliances and devices and choosing solar panels that can generate that amount of power.
Do I need a special type of toilet paper for my portable toilet?
Yes, it’s important to use biodegradable and RV-friendly toilet paper to prevent clogs and environmental damage.
What is a portable power station, and do I need one for my campervan?
A portable power station is a device that stores power and can be used to charge or power devices and appliances. They can be useful for campervans that want to live off the grid or have limited access to power sources.
What are the benefits of having a rooftop tent on my campervan?
Great question! A rooftop tent is a great campervan accessory, if you have the right type of converted van for it. A rooftop tent can provide additional sleeping space and a unique camping experience. They can also be easy to set up and take down and provide a comfortable and safe sleeping area.
Can I use regular household appliances in my campervan?
It’s generally not recommended to use regular household appliances in your campervan due to power limitations and safety concerns. Instead, look for appliances designed for campervans or that are labeled as portable or low-power (12V).
Most vanlifers are fans of rechargeable appliances. Often these can be charged by USB and will hold a charge for a considerable time.