To make the most of the van lifestyle, people have come up with some pretty creative DIY ways to make their life easier. A lot of van life is trial and error, but you don't have to do it alone.
We pulled together some of the most ingenious camper van hacks that can transform your van into a cozy, efficient, and delightful home on wheels. These tips, inspired by top van life experts and our own experiences, will make your journey smoother, more enjoyable, and absolutely unforgettable.
Creative Space-Saving Solutions
Maximize Vertical Space Like a Pro
- Hanging Organizers: Use walls or the back of doors to hang organizers or pockets. This is perfect for storing kitchen utensils, toiletries, or small items.
- Overhead Bungee Nets: Great for storing lightweight items like clothing, blankets, or even soft toys.
Sleepy Space
- Soft Pockets for Storage: Attach soft pockets to the back doors near your sleeping area. When closed, they act as handy nightstands—perfect for storing small bedtime essentials, or that book you just can't put down.
- Under-Bed, Roll-Out Containers: If you don't already have built-in storage under there, be sure to maximize the space under your bed by using rolling storage bins. This is a great place to store clothes, bedding, or less frequently used items.
Seating Hacks
- Swivel Seats: Adding swivel seats to your driver and passenger seats is a game-changer for creating more living space.
- Multi-Purpose Furniture: Opt for furniture that serves multiple purposes - think a table that transforms into a bed or extra seating.
Comfort and Convenience Tweaks
Enhancing the Living Experience
- LED Light Strips: Easily accent and light up your space with LED light strips. They are perfect for creating ambiance!
- Label Everything: Use labels to keep track of where things are, especially in compact spaces.
Cooking and Kitchen Upgrades
- Collapsible Kitchen Items: Imagine a kitchen where everything folds down! Invest in items like a collapsible sink and collapsible bowls. They save space when not in use and are incredibly practical.
- Magnetic Strips / Spice Containers: Use magnetic spice containers under cabinets for easy access and a clutter-free kitchen.
- Portable Kettle: Skip the built-in water heater. A portable kettle is an efficient way to heat water for multiple uses.
- Wire Metal Baskets: Install wire metal baskets for an aesthetic and functional storage solution. They’re perfect for keeping fruits and veggies within reach.
- Vacuum Seal Bags: Save space in your fridge and keep food fresh longer by using vacuum-sealed bags.
Level Up Your Sleeping Game
- Memory Foam Mattress Topper: For a more comfortable sleep, add a memory foam topper to your van’s bed.
- Ventilation Hack: Install small, battery-operated fans or a roof vent for better airflow and more comfortable sleeping.
- Blackout Curtains: Light disturbs our sleep, so especially if you tend to camp in areas that have a lot of light pollution, blackout curtains (or an eye mask) are a great way to help you get the most out of your shut-eye time.
Safety and Security Essentials
Peace of Mind on the Road
- Safety Equipment: Make your mom happy and ensure you have a fire extinguisher, carbon monoxide detector, and first-aid kit easily accessible.
- Seatbelts for Extra Lock Security: For added safety when sleeping, loop the seatbelts through the door handles and buckle them up. It's a simple trick that offers extra security.
- Bungee Cords for Safety: Secure your kitchen items with bungee cords during transit. It's a simple, yet effective way to keep everything in place.
- DIY Maintenance Kit: Keep a basic toolkit and learn some maintenance essentials to handle minor repairs on the road.
Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Practices
Embrace Green Living
- Solar Power: Harness the sun's energy with portable solar panels. It’s eco-friendly and perfect for off-grid adventures.
- Water Conservation Methods: To minimize your water usage, try installing a low-flow faucet to conserve water, a foot pump for the kitchen sink, and/or a spray water bottle for washing dishes.
Enhancing Connectivity
Staying Connected
- Wi-Fi Booster: Consider investing in a Wi-Fi booster if you work on the road or need a consistent internet connection.
Your Van, Your Rules
The fact that there are so many camper van hacks out there is no surprise given the spirit of innovation, adaptability, and resourcefulness that defines the van life community. So, whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned traveler, these hacks are sure to enhance your experience.
At Sandy Vans, we're all about living life on your own terms, with a touch of comfort and a lot of adventures. For more tips, stories, and insights into van life, keep following our blog and say hello on social media. Here's to making every journey in your camper van a memorable one. Happy travels!
