How much does it cost to convert a campervan yourself?
If you are considering converting a campervan yourself, then the question you are mostly likely going to ask is, ‘How much will it cost?’ This blog post will focus on providing approximate costs for the different aspects of your own self-build conversion - aside from the main cost of buying a van. (If you are curious about the things you should consider before buying a van to convert, check out my blog post - Buying a Campervan for the first time? Also, it might sound obvious, but before you fully invest in vanlife, it is worth hiring a campervan for a weekend to make sure you really love it / identify the features or layout that would work for you in your own. Read my blog with everything you need to know about hiring a campervan here.)
The question I am asked so frequently when people start to consider converting a campervan is, “How much does it cost to convert a van?” Unfortunately it is a complex question, because it could cost you anywhere from £500 to over £20k for a self build and potentially anything up to £40k for a high-end professional conversion, at the time of writing this blog. The cost also varies with the size or make of your van, so the cost may be more.
It is likely that your budget will be the driving force behind your choices, although your experience, skills set, confidence and available time will all be crucial in your decision making. Some people will want and need to have their van converted professionally - a Google Map of conversion companies across the UK can be found here. However, if you feel confident and capable to convert a campervan yourself, let’s focus on the cheapest way for you at the moment. Remember that if you don’t feel able to undertake all the necessary work, you could tackle some parts yourself and ask individual professionals to complete the rest. YouTube is a fabulous resource to use and learn from and could provide the biggest way to save money. It is also worth remembering that not everything needs to be done at the same time when converting a campervan. If you are happy to live without a sink, a hob or a fridge for a while, then you can spread the cost of the conversion. Or maybe save money by adding things like solar panels, swivel seats etc. at a later date.
Sound Proofing and Insulation - approx £300
Windows - approx £600
Pop-up Roof - approx £3,200 (this is priced to be fitted professionally)
Swivel Base for front chairs - approx £360
Fridge - approx £700
Rock ‘n’ Roll Bed - approx £1,500
Kitchen - approx £1,200
Evo Design is generally very popular with campers.
Electrics - approx £600 + leisure battery - approx £120 + solar panels - approx £200 = £920
I appreciate the electrics might be daunting, so you might wish to spend extra and get this part of your conversion done professionally.
Flooring - approx £100 (ply and vinyl)
Sink and gas hob - approx £400
Gas bottle - approx £65 (always more expensive the first time, as you essentially buy the bottle. Each time thereafter, you just pay for the gas which is approx £25 per time).
Diesel heater - £518 - £618
We bought a Planar diesel heater from Transporter HQ and fitted it ourselves (which isn’t easy). Please note, while the Chinese diesel heaters might be appealing price wise, they can be very dangerous. Better to pay a little more and know that you have a good product.
Carpet for walls - approx £250
Misc - approx £100 (fixtures, fittings, curtains etc)
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It is also worth noting that there are some really useful Facebook groups specific to the different types of van you wish to convert. These can be a source of support and places to ask and answer questions. Please remember that advice will likely to be based on their own experience. Some examples of groups can be found below.
