The best configurations for a converted van: Comfort and practicality

Vanlife is attracting more and more people, all of whom share a thirst for freedom and adventure. Whether you’re a road trip enthusiast, a digital nomad or looking for a new minimalist, nomadic lifestyle, living in a converted van is an ideal solution. However, optimising the interior comfort and practicality of your van is essential to getting the most out of your escapades ✨

In this article, we guide you through the best configurations for a converted van, focusing on furniture, space optimisation, energy solutions and much more. Get ready to transform your van into a mobile cocoon!

(To order ready-made made-to-measure van layout plans: visit the Casakub shop)

Choosing the right carrier: The basics 🔑

Before thinking about interior design, the very first step is to choose the carrier that best suits your needs 🧐

Here are the dimensions of the carriers to create a converted van:

– L1H1 / L1H2 / L1H3 / L2H1 compact vans

✅ Benefits: ease of driving, discretion, fuel savings.

❌ Disadvantages: limited interior space, less suitable for long stays.

– Intermediate vans L2H2 / L2H3 / L3H1 /L3H2

✅ Benefits: good compromise between space and manoeuvrability.

❌ Disadvantages: requires careful planning to optimise space.

– L3H3 / L3H4 / L4H2 / L4H3 / L4H4 wide vans

✅ Benefits: ideal for a complete layout (shower, kitchen, fixed bed).

❌ Disadvantages: high consumption, restrictions in certain urban areas.

Once you’ve selected the size(s) you want, you need to choose the make of carrier according to your budget, what’s available on the new or used market, and the mechanical specifications you’re looking for.

The main van models on the market are : Renault Trafic , VW Transporter , Peugeot Boxer , Renault Master , Ford Transit , Mercredes Sprinter and Iveco Daily.

💡 Practical tip: If you’re planning to travel mainly in towns and/or Europe, opt for a compact or mid-range model to avoid the hassle of parking!

Create a customised layout 🛋️

The layout of a converted van is based on an ingenious organisation of space 🤓

Here are the 3 main elements to take into account (depending on your needs and the dimensions of your van) for a successful layout:

1. Bed configuration :

• Installing a fixed transverse bed: Ideal for large vans!

✅ Advantage: Saves time, no need to unfold/fold.

❌ Disadvantage: Reduces living space.

• Create a retractable or modular bed: suitable for small vans!

✅ Benefit: Optimises space during the day.

❌ Disadvantage: Requires a little effort to set up.

• A hammock or hanging bed: perfect for minimalist set-ups!

✅ Advantage: Ultra-light and easy to store.

❌ Disadvantage: Minimises comfort.

💡 DIY tip: Think about incorporating storage space under the bed to maximise the use of every cm².

2. The kitchen :

Even in a small space, you can cook like a chef 🧑‍🍳

If you want to be able to prepare tasty meals on your own wherever you go, here are the kitchen features you shouldn’t forget to include in your converted van:

• Hob: Gas or electric, depending on your energy source.
• Sink with water pump: A must-have for extended stays.
• 12V fridge or cool box: Choose according to your needs.

💡 Practical idea: Add a retractable table outside for al fresco cooking on sunny days.

3. Shower and WC :

Now comes the point of debate: do I fit sanitary facilities in my van? 🚿

It’s actually a very personal question! Depending on your needs, the size of your van and the length and destinations of your road trips, you can choose (or not^^) to be semi or fully autonomous, with the following elements:

• Built-in shower: Reserved for larger vans (add a water heater for added comfort).
• Outdoor shower: Easier to install, ideal for summer trips.
• Dry toilets: Compact and environmentally friendly, they’re perfect for converted vans.

💡 Good to know: Install curtains or removable panels to preserve your privacy.

Forecasting energy and thermal comfort 🔋🔥

To make the most of it whenever and wherever you want, a well-equipped van also needs to be energy self-sufficient and comfortable whatever the season!

Here’s how to achieve electric autonomy and optimise the thermal comfort of your van:

1. Which energy systems should be installed?

• Solar panels: ecological and practical for long road trips. However, solar panels do require you to manage your energy consumption carefully.

• An auxiliary battery: Essential for powering your equipment (lights, fridge, etc.).

• A 12V/220V converter: Transforms energy to charge your electronic devices.

💡 Sustainable tip: Add thermal insulation solutions (reflective sheets, blackout curtains) to save energy.

2. How to optimise thermal comfort: Summer and Winter?

• Install a stationary heater: Ideal for harsh winters.
• Installing roof ventilators: They provide good ventilation in summer.
• Insulating walls and roof: Essential for regulating the temperature inside.

💡 Key point: Good sound insulation also helps to reduce noise pollution, especially if you sleep in the city.

Optimising every cm³ 🛠️

As with any other small space, such as a tiny house or studio, a converted van needs to make the most of every cubic centimetre for maximum storage and modularity!

Here are a few important points to bear in mind for an optimised layout:

– Create clever storage solutions!

• Incorporate pull-out drawers under the seats.
• Add storage nets for small items.
• Install magnetic hooks on the walls to hang your utensils.

– Create a convertible living space!

Think of modular furniture, for example, to easily transform your living area into a dining area: a folding table or a convertible bench seat are major assets.

Ready to design the van of your dreams? 🌟

Fitting out a van is an exciting adventure that gives you the chance to personalise a space in your own image! By following these tips, you can create a van that combines comfort, practicality and autonomy, whether it’s for a weekend getaway or a road trip lasting several months 🗺️

🚐 You can find ready-made plans on Casakub to furnish the interior of a van yourself!