Minivan Camper Builder | Van Tour

In this video, we get to tour a Toyota Sienna that has been converted into an awesome campervan by Oasis Campervans out of Broomfield, Colorado. This van features a super-simple water solution, a lot of storage, a large bed, simple solar power, and would be perfect for extended vacations.
Links:
Oasis Campervans: oasiscampervan...
Originals by Ramona: originalsbyram...
Coleman Camp Stove: amzn.to/38iTPAz
5-Gallon Water Jug: amzn.to/3sW71EY
Water Pump/Faucet: amzn.to/3kOjsPV
Jackery Explorer 1000 Portable Power Station: amzn.to/2Y9GIjH
Jackery SolarSaga 100W Portable Solar Panel: amzn.to/3gCX6zy
Lagun Table Mount: www.lagunusa.com/
Rhino Rack Awning: amzn.to/3Dqm2nn
Here at TheGalavan I feature vans, primarily designed and built by women, to give you inspiration for your own van build. I’m always on the lookout for other van life enthusiasts who want to collaborate and share their love of this lifestyle. I also love to cook from scratch in my van and share accessories, tips, and tricks to make van life easier and more successful for you.
Gear & Accessories:
Canon G7x Mark ii: amzn.to/2FBCjYQ
Fotopro Flexible Tripod: amzn.to/2E7fjCV
Video Editing: iMovie
3qt Instant Pot: amzn.to/2VF15Ah
3qt IP Inserts: amzn.to/2xKJK0F
This video is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links which means if you buy something I'll receive a small commission.
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[@christopherfreitas6510]

Idk.. for over 10,000$ they need to throw in the jackery, And that "water system" needs a lil help :/

[@lindamassey5305]

I watch van builds all time and schooie and some van people have had companies build out came up to like 2.000to 5.000.not a big overcharge on this build.wow.no way

[@Zorazora1234]

Agree, I thought it was just me… almost $12,000 omg ..

[@tybrady1935]

I’d like to get a Toyota Sienna hybrid van. The 36 mpg would be awesome, plus you can run the AC all night. The AC runs off the big battery and the engine turns on when needed to recharge the battery.

[@Oswald2615]

The excessive weight of this build would dramatically drop the hybrid mpg - likely to under 30 mpg. I have a new RAV4 hybrid advertised at 39 mpg. We get an average of 36 and have had as good as 40, but the average is what to expect. So 35 advertised is likely closer to 31 and with this heavy wood structure the actual would be under 30, might be less than 25. I am looking at the new Sienna too, but haven’t found the right one yet. At $45 to 50k, I would never butcher it with something like this. There are other non-permanent and cheaper builds. Look for a video of a guy that did an 80/20 build - its great!

[@tybrady1935]

@@Oswald2615 Good point, that extra weight would reduce the gas mileage. I'm still thinking about getting a Sienna van. The one bad thing is that it's a bit tricky to take the second row seats out. You have to buy a third party bypass gizmo to trick the airbags into thinking the seats are still there so the airbags do not go off (or something like that). It would be better if Toyota designed the seats so they could be taken out easily.

[@jgarcia9011]

@@tybrady1935 That's what I'm concerned with, airbag/seatbelt bypass. Would love to know where to get the bypass part to trick the bypass!

[@tybrady1935]

@@jgarcia9011 I forget where I read about it. I think it was made and sold by a one person company. Hopefully you can find it by googling different searches.

[@serenityjewel]

​@@Oswald2615That build doesn't weight that much. They removed the middle row and back seats - which weigh a ton - and the Sienna is made to carry 4 to 5 people on top of the seat weight. At about 45 lbs per sheet of plywood, that build probably weighs half what the 4 seats and 5 passengers would weigh. The mileage would be fine.

[@robertb7110]

Those are really well thought out conversions. Very impressive! Best, Helen

[@serenakoleno9338]

I like the high awning, haven't seen one like that. Also like that the shades store on windows. Not too sure about that mattress. Seems okay for one person sleeping in middle, but if two people are in there, don't you feel the division? Doesn't look like they are fitting real snug. Think a square sink with built in cutting board would be better use of space. 10k? No thanks. But TFS.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thanks for the feedback! It tends not to be as much of a problem as you'd think (the division in the cushions). I always sleep soundly.

[@nnettie822]

This is definitely the best conversion that I have seen. Beautiful work!

[@r.c.7762]

Thank you.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you!

[@tja3495]

Thank you for sharing this information, it is very valuable.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thanks, TJ A!

[@mike330i]

Very innovative design. Love the headrest.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thanks, Michael! It's super useful, for sure.

[@conniefox8044]

Wow, your work is awesome!

[@susanmboudreau]

Some very nice ideas

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you!

[@CW-hb1yi]

Sweet. That hardwood makes for long lasting screw hold, but the weight...

[@herranton]

At about 0:20 it looks like the van is struggling with all that weight. And it's empty. Once your gear (and your person) is in it, you will be on the bump stops.

[@ebr1840]

Love this

[@mariad4183]

This is beautifully done - thank you for sharing Joni! I'm thinking minivan for my first camper ...Bravo!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you, Maria! The minivan is definitely a good way to enter Van Life. You can even start with simply taking out the seats and going with an air mattress, then deciding what you need from there.

[@mariad4183]

@@oasiscampervans8486 ...LOVE it! Thank you so much for all the great ideas!

[@joniboulware1436]

Nice quality. I think the water supply is low and I would never drive down the road with an open gray water bucket. Mini vans should help make the lifestyle a lot more affordable and an easy drive.

[@sylviatorres8965]

This price is to expensive for only cabinets

[@anneiconex1473]

Yeah

[@gklinger]

Everyone seems to love it but I too think it is overpriced. I'm also not impressed with the design.

[@stacyvanaernem8622]

First thing I thought when he said eleven grand. Say what? Which doesn't include the frig, no plumbing, and no toilet. Geez! And getting the bed set up was a bit much. It really is a lot of money for cabinets and window coverings.

[@orangejuicewithpulp403]

Do agree

[@hebruce2426]

I think $3000 is reasonable

[@lindamartin2045]

Very nice video. Useful and efficient build. The table is really secure just in case....Thank you

[@cindym6138]

Tetris! Great build.

[@TheGalavan]

True! I was amazed at how that bed went together.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Haha, maybe we should be Tetris Vans?? Thanks!

[@michellestratford9753]

Beautiful job! I'm disappointed though that he didn't name his company his last name of Freedlander. It is perfect! 😂 Thanks for the tour! 🥰🇨🇦

[@QueenBaha]

One of the nicest well thought out minivan builds I’ve seen…alas, I’ll take that cost and use as a down payment for something I can stand up in😊

[@bryanburbage1331]

This is gotta be the best minivan build I've seen! And I've been putting in my research!

[@LOTStreets]

Wow that actually looks moderately comfortable.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thanks, Life On The Streets. It sure is more comfortable than most nights I've spent in a tent!

[@LOTStreets]

@@oasiscampervans8486 oh I know what you mean. If rather sleep in my SUV than in a tent any night.. 😁

[@carlaifera5254]

Quality build ✨..... not lovin' the 'complicated' sleep/bed setup ..... notta troll/just sayin' .... 🙋🏞️🎚️🇺🇸

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Carla, thanks for the feedback! Some people just leave it set up and don't bother with the takedown. Once you're used to it, it takes about 2 minutes.

[@artsteadman2230]

Too each their own. Carla Ifera it doesn't have to meet YOUR needs as long as it's good for others

[@SSZaris]

This has given me so many cool ideas to try in my own stealth camper. Thanks for sharing! :)

[@andyjones207]

Clever stuff. Ace.

[@GreatGrannyFreeBird]

oh i just love the birch Cabinetry! excellent interview Joni. Minivans rock.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

We love it, too! We've used it for about 2 years now, and used other plywood before. Nothing compares!

[@omalo3645]

What a sweet outfit! Definitely stealth! Love the wood! great awning, wonderful mini kitchen but I wonder is there anyway to cook inside when the weather is bad?Good to see you Joni!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you so much! It can be done, but you'd need to have your materials inside with you so you don't need to get into the drawers. You can still access the fridge from inside!

[@jobabs]

That’s a beautiful build!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you so much, Jo Babs!

[@Herk988]

Really amazing! Thanks for sharing!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you, Kolorado Kouple! Come by and check one out if you are around Broomfield!

[@uber2tuber]

Great tour!! I've looked into these guys. Fantastic builds.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you so much!

[@marcarias448]

Ez to understand... Super build...

[@cotter9751]

Beautiful!!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you!

[@armandoramos1949]

Love the build, if I win the LOTTO I want something like this. Just want something simple and stealth like this.

[@NapoleonGARDENINGTV]

Yes, it is awesome!

[@artsteadman2230]

Great design. Especially the bed

[@alanschaller5869]

Really like the rhino rack

[@faze_buendia9514]

wow great tour, this minivan camper is amazing!

[@cosymedia2257]

awesome!

[@BrandonBuildsWebsites]

This man is doing things to me....omg!

[@danagavin5163]

Love this build but nothing was mentioned about a toilet. I am 61 and need one on board. Does it have one?

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

Luggable Lu and your pump shower, too. This Lifestyle is a Frame of mind. Gym membership and State and National Parks have Facilities. You will most likely know where you are going ?? 😁🤭 No, really you will have a plan ?? Truck stops have showers . Mail and Amazon packages can be picked up along the way. How do you think Trucker's have made it all this time ? These gadgets and designs come from trucks and people that have lived on the road for decades. They made the best of small spaces. And we carry on. EVOLVED. We all have a plan. They are making it more convenient.

[@thizizliz]

Wow, not fancy but super high quality.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thanks!

[@victoriaburkhardt9974]

Thanks for this video. Very interesting build.

[@la.boricua800]

I love the storage space,awesome

[@haveminivanwilltravel]

Quite beautiful and really innovative. Very nice!

[@bisdaktvofficial1590]

I have a toyota sienna 2003.and its on the proces to build a week camping for the family.dont have any carpenter background.this help me a lot all you guys putting online about vanlife.thanks

[@oasiscampervans8486]

No problem! Good luck with the buildout! I hope it turns out great for you.

[@micheleparadis2808]

wow. Your build is perfect. Bravo

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you, Michèle!

[@janiswilliams2766]

I’ve been looking at a lot of different builders online and I have narrowed my future build to either this builder or one other. I’m glad to be able to this walk through with the measurements mentioned. They should actually have something more like this on their website. However, the schematics on the website are very helpful. I know they do some customization. I would prefer a larger fixed bed platform at 27” wide instead of the 18 mentioned and eliminate that side chair and cabinet beside the chair. I will note that I don’t like that open bucket idea … I think two closed tanks (one fresh one gray) is better under the sink. You may not be able to dump that gray right away and you don’t want that splashing all over the place looking for an appropriate location to dump it. Curious if they see this … which year Sienna actually offers the most room?

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Janis, we can absolutely do that!

[@priestesslucy3299]

The nice thing about the bucket is you can legally dump it about 50x as many places as a tank. Just need to be conscious about where you're going to generate grey water so you can dump it on site

[@tomtafola4518]

Love this vídeo

[@laurajphillips]

This was great!

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you, Laura!

[@gracecallowayable]

Awesome!!!👠🚌👠

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you, Graycee!

[@sunnyrivers]

Love this WELL DONE‼️👌🏼

[@neotune7604]

Very creative and stylish

[@la.boricua800]

I luv it,but it's too much wood weight inside,besides the owner adding their essentials,it's more on ⛽ gas,but I truly love it, ❤️ I'm actually working on mine,but gotta find a simpler set up n space inside

[@whosaidwhatwhen1]

I agree. Most of the van conversions I see especially on minivans involved a couple hundred or more pounds of wood. The payload on my Sienna hybrid is only 1300 pounds.

[@SaadNabil]

Amazing.

[@CindyCaVANas]

very nice!

[@lweleven3423]

Great job some great ideas I’m in the UK so sorry can’t come to you 🙈but it’s very helpful to what I can do

[@serenityjewel]

Nice build. While the cost is more than I am willing to spend, I think you did a really good job overall. I do suggest reworking the kitchen area. Some of it isn't practical.

[@Sergio54321]

Thanks for the video? What about heating and cooling while you are parked? A fan isn’t good enough in hot weather.

[@fymchannel3946]

Wow.. So confortable.good job.

[@serenityjewel]

I don't think this build would affect the Sienna gas mileage at all. The build looks to be about the same weight as the the 2nd and 3rd row seats that took out. Since the Sienna gets 35 mpg or better with all 4 back seats in, plus the weight of 4 to 5 passengers riding in the back, I doubt the build would affect the gas mileage at all.

[@tigrexiao]

better to have an portable toilet too.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

How does the mattresses hold moisture out? I couldn’t see any holes or possible ways of airing out the bottom of the bed?

[@vanhuynh9341]

Awesome job !! 👍👍👍🥰🥰🥰

[@sunnyd5535]

$12k for a mini-van build out? Doesn't include the van and the Jackery is an add-on? Sounds like the fridge isn't included in the price either?? YIKES that's crazy expensive.

[@kimsargeant8126]

I believe he said that was the total after electronics, power station, and fridge. I may have mis-heard.

[@TheGalavan]

As mentioned in the video, $12K is the average with the electronics and fridge. Keep in mind that they are using Baltic Birch plywood and other top of the line materials. Of course, you can always DIY it instead.

[@janiswilliams2766]

@@kimsargeant8126 I think it’s just under 10k for the basic build. I’ve been doing some research. Their build and their finish looks really good and appears quality. I believe they are also leveling the floor. It’s not a “no build, build” where you can move things in and out at will. I actually have to save money to be able to have this build but good craftsmanship is hard to find and you are paying for the skill. Certainly at this price I expect everything to be expertly put together with wood glue and screws and finely finished. Check out Road Loft … their build is less than 5k and not permanent.

[@aaronfriedland4362]

@@janiswilliams2766 Thank you! We certainly do use building methods that ensure durability. The build is removable, though. It is built on a 3/4" subfloor, but that can all be removed, if desired!

[@janiswilliams2766]

@@aaronfriedland4362 thank you. I wasn’t sure how you did the floor but I noticed that you leveled it out. If I can find the Sienna I would totally schedule in one of the time frames you have left but negotiating on a car these days is challenging. I was hoping to get a 2019 with low miles, a returned lease certified by the dealer.

[@sandrabeck8788]

Beautiful build at oasis campervan. I have a question, after seeing so many builds online, why is the side door of the driver usually blocked by the build? I camp alone and prefer to get in the back on the driver side. It seems most would rather have entrance on the other side. Just curious.

[@herranton]

RV sites in the USA are always set up so the utilities are on the driver's side and the camp area is on the passenger side. (So much so, that you can even call the passenger side: the camp side). All RVs are going to have the back door to get in on the passenger side. I assume that most builds are some vestige of that. There are a couple of other advantages. If you were to build a storage wall thing in the back and cover the side window, if it's in back of the driver, you won't notice it. On the passenger side, it will block the window. Or, if you are parked on the street and want to jump in the back to eat your subway you just got, it's easier and safer from the curb side. But you do you on your build. The best camper for you is the one that works the best for how you travel.

[@shamonehanks5584]

Amazing... I wish I was close to u all cause I would love to have my first build done by u💞

[@oasiscampervans8486]

If you are ever out here, let me know and we can show you what we do!

[@shamonehanks5584]

@@oasiscampervans8486 ok thank u🙌

[@Ruthie888]

Good design!

[@alanschaller5869]

Use your fridge as a freezer, then freeze ice bottles or blue ice to use in your cooler...

[@Onewholovesrock]

Very nice build!

[@swanben11]

Beautiful, but as someone who's done trips in my own minivan, simplicity is key. So is the ability to be self contained and indoors. This design isn't good for either. Imagine cooking yourself dinner standing outside anywhere but a campground. No thank you.

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

Yes this is a Camper van. Not stealth living. Huge difference.

[@Victoria-nh5xv]

nice build👍

[@caroad2008]

Awesome build. For the 2021 Sienna, do you remove those second row seats and address the associated electricals ? Does the van build blocks the spare tire compartment?

[@tomtafola4518]

I would like buy some of this wood boxes😊

[@limgoReisenundmehr]

Very nice, good job 👍

[@rgthanx7]

Most people are living in vehicles because they can't afford rent, how they going afford $9000.-$12,000, you need to come up with something cheaper for the poe folk ! That's why most DITY Do it themselves

[@Jason-md1bw]

Awesome!

[@hazellegate9624]

Check out Eric Enjoys Earth on KZbin. He has some unique and clever ideas for Toyota Sienna conversions. 👍 They allow cooking inside and access to storage when the bed is up or down. He shares plans too. Conversions need to be tested out to see what’s convenient and easy to manage especially in such a small space.

[@TheGalavan]

Yes! I really like his design. Seems like he manages to have more space than there really is available, like Hermione's tent for minivans!

[@hazellegate9624]

@@TheGalavan Heehee…..”I love magic!” 😃

[@mysticalmisfit1332]

Love the minivan build. 🙌🏽🙌🏽 I love the flags that are hanging in the inside of your van. Is there a link to purchase them?

[@TheGalavan]

Unfortunately, I haven't been able to find that artist who created the flags. I purchased them from the artist about six years ago at the Oregon Country Fair.

[@mysticalmisfit1332]

@@TheGalavan 👍🏽😊

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Thank you! Her van is super homey, right?

[@sharlenebux9579]

The price is a too much.especiwlly customer having to buy the materials!!

[@TheGalavan]

As mentioned in the video, $12K is the average with the electronics, fridge, and all the other materials. Keep in mind that they are using Baltic Birch plywood and other top of the line materials. Of course, you can always DIY it instead.

[@joefarrugia7413]

Nice build. Hey … can the cabinets (Baltic Birch) be a bit thinner? It’d also be nice to hear WHY you’re using that particular wood. I’m sure there’s good reason, but it’d be nice to actually know why YOU choose Baltic Birch. Can one use their own Jackery and fridge?

[@graftedinforever971]

I fail to see where there is $11k-$12k in materials and labor. Especially if the customer has to buy the refrigerator and other appliances.

[@TheGalavan]

That amount includes the fridge and electronics.

[@budget-adventure]

$12k? Was expecting a dedicated electrical system instead of just sitting a jackery under the bench

[@TheGalavan]

About ALL you'd get would be the dedicated electrical system at that price point. As mentioned in the video, $12K is the average with the electronics and fridge. Keep in mind that they are using Baltic Birch plywood and other top of the line materials. Of course, you can always DIY it instead.

[@user-tk3ip4mh8s]

As a woman, I’d be nervous in that design. I would need to easily go front to back and back to front without getting out of the vehicle in order to feel safe.

[@linebrunelle1004]

cramped

[@phannguyen8824]

I wonder how much is the weight of all that contraption ??

[@AngelaMRoss]

What about condensation and insulation?

[@Oswald2615]

It appears to be quality work and an okay design. However, I don’t see the $12.5k value in this build. The material costs are less than half that and the weight of the wood structures is way too much - looks like it would be close to weight capacity and any off road travel would bottom out the shocks. Moreover, not sure why anyone would ruin a new $50k Sienna for this build. $12.5k is more than most used vans cost and installing this build doesn’t add value. Good luck.

[@mendozaconsultation]

How can I get an itemize list of the build out for this lay out.?

[@TheGalavan]

He mentions lots of ways to contact him in the video, and there's a link to his website in the show notes.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Confusious, if you email us at [e-mail], we will send you an itemized list.

[@jimgood4966]

Happy New Year, I hope you are well. I just purchased a 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan. I am hoping to get my hands on some design files (ideally I can open in TinkerCAD format .stl, .obj or .svg, or any drawings/diagrams/measurements of bed/cabinet/kitchen alternate setups etc) that I can take inspiration from modify to my personal liking to incorporate a combination of the best as possible. I thought I might ask if you would be so kind as to forward any design files that you have that may help me, also if you are aware currently of any useful/necessary items for vanlife selling at a really good price/value currently I would very much appreciate any help/advice you can provide. Thanks and safe travels!

[@TheGalavan]

You'll need to reach out to the company directly - their info is in the video description. Good luck!

[@lindamassey5305]

Did he say 12.000dollars why.wayyyyy to much

[@lesvoyagesdelouis6574]

Joli !

[@sonic302reilly]

Looks nice and all but holy cramped and complicated.

[@adarshguptak]

how much did this cost, excluding the price for the vehicle? Thanks

[@BriteImpressions1]

I have a Chrysler Town and Country 2014. Can you figure out for sleeping for 2 and a Labrador? How much

[@BriteImpressions1]

Wow..it is awesome. Sleeping for two.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

Diane, we can indeed. Please send me an email at [e-mail] and I'd be happy to continue the conversation!

[@laureldell7377]

Do insurance companies recognize this build as safe?

[@nomadicjourneys8693]

9-12 thousand?! Lmao!! Wow, there’s another one born every minute lol

[@TheGalavan]

As mentioned in the video, $12K is the average with the electronics and fridge. Keep in mind that they are using Baltic Birch plywood and other top of the line materials. Of course, you can always DIY it instead.

[@oasiscampervans8486]

We've been around since 2014.

[@offairhead]

I love that he starts out talking about ballpark price range. I can’t stand people that hide their prices.

[@1sthawkfeathers547]

Absolutely. Dont waste my time or yours. Time is irreplaceable.

[@bigfoot8085]

Would not pay 12500 for that build

[@livinglifemyway7349]

Do they do pop tops in a 2008 sienna?

[@jamesblackwell703]

I built our own with 200 watt solar for 1,000. 400 was having canvas made

[@TheIvoryman]

I have watched hundreds of minivan conversion videos. And this is just my honest opinion. Way too much work to convert from daytime to nighttime sleeper mode! And, having nothing but a seat for only one person to sit in is not practical. The trifold mattress on the bed becomes too thick, folded, to be usable. The cushions should be made to come apart so the bed may be used as a seating area with a backrest. Having an open topped bucket for waste water is actually ridiculous. They need to return to the design layout phase. And, reconsider some of their choices, especially for the price. Of all the designs I have seen, this would be low on my list, to purchase.

[@chrisreed26]

Nice, not $10K nice haha This is a opular money making business now with vans but remember the original idea for Van-Life was to be able to live cheap save money! If I was looking to spend, say $25K for a Sienna used or $50K new then another $11K for a kit build I would opt for a 3 year old Roadtrek!