DIY vs. Professionally Converted Van: Which is Right for You?

Lady sat in in converted van surrounded by mess

DIY vs. Professionally Converted Van: Which is Right for You?

Buy or Sell Campers

Buy or Sell Campers

18 April 2023

We’re putting pedal to the metal on a one-way mission to ignite wanderlust and connect you with your ultimate roving home. Subscribe to get a weekly dose of vanlife inspo and expert hacks straight to your inbox.

Are you thinking of living the van life and hitting the open road? A van is an excellent way to explore the world while having a comfortable home on wheels. But should you buy a DIY van or a professionally converted van? In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of both options, so you can decide which is right for you.

We’ll be answering all your converted van questions:

  • What is a converted van?
  • DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is cheaper?
  • DIY vs. van conversion companies: which is more time-consuming?
  • DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is safer?
  • DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is more reliable?
  • DIY vs. working with a van conversion company: which is better for customization?
  • DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for resale?
  • DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is more comfortable?
  • DIY vs. working with a van conversion company: which is better for beginners?
  • DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for experts?
  • DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is better for families?
  • DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is better for solo travelers?
  • DIY vs. working with a van conversion company: which is better for long-term travel?
  • DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for short-term travel?

And more!

A van is a versatile vehicle that can be used for a variety of purposes, from camping and traveling to living full-time. But when thinking about buying a camper van, one of the first decisions comes down to choosing between a DIY van or a professional van conversion. And the decision can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of each option, so you can decide which is the right fit for you.

Campervan on beach with purple sky

What is a converted van?

Before we dive into the pros and cons of DIY vs. professionally converted vans, let’s ask: what is a van conversion? A converted van is a regular van that has been modified to serve as a living space. This can include adding a bed, a kitchen, a bathroom, and storage space. Some people choose to convert their vans themselves, while others prefer to purchase a professionally converted van.

DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is cheaper?

One of the biggest factors when deciding between a DIY van or a professionally converted van is cost. DIY conversions can be cheaper than professionally converted vans, but it depends on how much work you’re willing to do. You can save money by sourcing your own materials and doing the labor yourself, but keep in mind that mistakes can be costly. Also, specialist tools cost money too, so if you want a good finish, you’ll need to factor this in.

On the other hand, professionally converted vans can be more expensive, but you have the peace of mind knowing that the work has been done by experts.

DIY vs. working with a van conversion company: which is more time-consuming?

DIY van conversions can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not experienced in construction or mechanics. It can take months or even years to complete a DIY conversion, and mistakes can set you back even further.

It’s important to really ask yourself whether you have time to undertake a van conversion. Time is money. Time you spend converting a van could be spent earning money.

Additionally, if you are planning to become a full-time vanlifer, then the sooner you get out on the road the better. Time spent staying in a house or apartment is costly, the sooner you get into your van the sooner you’ll start saving that money. Lots of vanlifers we speak to spent a year or more converting their own van…they could have had a van professionally converted in two months, and saved 10 months of rent!

Professionally converted vans, on the other hand, can be ready to go in a matter of weeks or months, depending on the complexity of the conversion.

DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is safer?

Safety should always be a top priority when living in a van. Professionally converted vans are typically safer than DIY conversions because they’re built to meet safety regulations and have been inspected by professionals. DIY conversions can be safe if done correctly, but there’s always the risk of mistakes and oversights.

Whether you are converting a camper van yourself, or paying a professional, always seek to get a habitation check done by gas/electric/plumbing professionals to ensure your rig is safe.

DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is more reliable?

Reliability is also important when living in a van. Professionally converted vans are more reliable than DIY conversions because they’ve been built by experts who know what they’re doing. DIY conversions can be unreliable if the builder isn’t experienced, if shortcuts are taken during the build, or if the materials can’t sustain the pressure of road-use.

DIY vs. working with a professional van conversion company: which is better for customization?

If you’re looking to customize your van to fit your specific needs, a DIY conversion may be the better option for you. With a DIY conversion, you have complete control over the design and can make changes as you go. That said, sometimes the amount of choice can lead to decision fatigue!

Professionally converted vans may offer less customization options, but all van conversion companies offer some customization options when it comes to layout, finish, and base van. This is an important question to ask when commissioning a van conversion: “to what degree can I customize my camper van?”

DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for resale?

Resale value is something to consider when purchasing a van. Professionally converted vans tend to have a higher resale value than DIY conversions because they’re built to higher standards and have been inspected by professionals. DIY conversions can have a lower resale value if not done correctly or if the buyer doesn’t like the design.

Campervan interior with bed looking out to sunset

DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is more comfortable?

Comfort is essential when living in a van.

Professionally converted vans are typically more comfortable than DIY conversions because they’ve been designed with comfort in mind. Professionally converted vans often have features like heating, air conditioning, and high-quality insulation to ensure maximum comfort. DIY conversions can be comfortable if done correctly, but it’s important to keep comfort in mind during the design process.

DIY vs. working with a van conversion company: which is better for beginners?

If you’re new to the world of van life, a professionally converted van may be the better option for you. Professionally converted vans are ready to go, so you don’t have to worry about making mistakes during the build process.

DIY conversions can be overwhelming for beginners, and mistakes can be a nightmare! Van life is always an adventure, but no one wants a nightmare!

DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for experts?

If you’re an experienced builder or mechanic, a DIY conversion may be the better option for you. DIY conversions offer complete control over the design and allow you to make changes as you go. Professionally converted vans may not offer enough customization options for experts.

DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is better for families?

If you’re traveling with a family, a professionally converted van may be the better option for you. Professionally converted vans often have more space and can accommodate more people. DIY conversions can be customized to fit your family’s specific needs, but it’s important to keep space and safety in mind.

DIY vs. professional van conversion: which is better for solo travelers?

If you’re traveling alone, both DIY and professionally converted vans can be great options. Solo travelers may prefer the customization options that come with a DIY conversion, but professionally converted vans offer the convenience of being ready to go.

While professionally converted vans offer some peace of mind for the solo traveler, it’s also great to know your camper van intricately…and sometimes that only comes with having built it yourself!

DIY vs. van conversion company build-out: which is better for long-term travel?

If you’re planning on living in your van long-term, a professionally converted van may be the better option for you. Professionally converted vans are typically more reliable and comfortable than DIY conversions, making them a better option for long-term use. DIY conversions can be great for short-term trips, but may not hold up so well over time.

DIY vs. professionally converted van: which is better for short-term travel?

If you’re planning on taking short trips in your van, either DIY or professionally converted vans can work. DIY conversions may be a better option for short trips or day vans.

Grey Mercedes Sprinter camper with sunset

Key Takeaways

Deciding between a DIY van or a professional conversion can be overwhelming, but it all comes down to your individual needs and preferences. DIY conversions can be cheaper and offer more customization options, but they require more time and effort. Professional van conversions are more reliable and comfortable, but can be more expensive.

Consider your budget, time constraints, and experience level when making your decision.

In summary:

  • DIY conversions can be cheaper but may require more time and effort, while professionally converted vans are more reliable and comfortable but can be more expensive.
  • Consider your budget, time constraints, and experience level when deciding between a DIY conversion or a professionally converted van.
  • DIY conversions can be customized to fit your specific needs, while working with a van conversion company may offer less customization options.
  • Resale value is typically higher for professional van conversions than DIY conversions.
  • Comfort is essential when living in a van, and a van conversion company can offer great advice and recommendations re. features like heating, air conditioning, and high-quality insulation to ensure maximum comfort.
  • Solo travelers may prefer the customization options of a DIY conversion, while families may benefit from the design advice available from a van conversion company.
  • If you’re new to van life, a professionally converter camper van may be the better option for you, while experienced builders may prefer the customization options of a DIY van conversion.

Other Van Conversion FAQs

How much does it cost to convert a van?

The cost of converting a van varies greatly depending on the type of van, materials used, and the level of customization. DIY conversions can cost as little as a few thousand dollars, while professionally converted vans can cost upwards of $50,000.

How long does it take to convert a van?

The time it takes to convert a van depends on the level of customization and the experience of the builder. A DIY conversion can take anywhere from a few weeks to a year or more, while professionally converted vans are usually ready to go in 1-2 months.

Can I convert a van myself if I have no experience?

While it’s possible to convert a van yourself without any prior experience, it’s important to do thorough research and be prepared for a learning curve. It’s also important to ensure the safety and reliability of the final product, and to consider whether you have the specialist tools required for a good finish.

Can I customize a professionally converted van?

Many van conversion companies offer customization packages for their camper vans. The level of customization may be limited compared to a DIY conversion, but the ease factor will be much higher!

Which is better: a camper trailer or a van conversion?

The decision between a camper trailer and a camper van conversion ultimately comes down to personal preference and individual needs. Camper trailers offer more space but require a separate vehicle for towing, while van conversions offer more mobility but may be limited in space. This is a big topic, probably one for another post!

Read this next

NEWSLETTER SIGNUP

Register to receive our newsletter, bringing you exclusive offers and the latest news.

Sell your Van in 7 days

Built by enthusiasts, for enthusiasts, Buy or Sell Campers is the ultimate place to browse hundreds of camper vans for sale nationwide. Drill down into van-specific features that make all the difference in finding your perfect camper van. 

Selling your camper van? We can help with that too. Instantly gain exposure to thousands of van buyers across the Country!

Why Buy or Sell Campers?

With over 200k followers, tapping into our social media guarantees mass exposure for your rig.