Simple, Sturdy Minivan Camper Build

[@jakiniausetmenab3901]

Shout-up out to 70’s home economics from a school nurse! This is when our children learned some life skills!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Yes indeed! I love being able to put old skills to new purpose

[@mitchwinder1204]

That’s the nicest minivan conversion I’ve ever seen. Hell, it’s nicer than most full-size van conversions. Well-done.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you!

[@budluck8820]

I definitely echo this. I've watched a LOT of minivan builds to the point that I can usually tell from the thumbnail whether I'll like it. As soon as I saw the thumbnail on this one I knew it was going to resonate with me. There's a bunch of things I like about this: attention to detail on the woodworking (routed corners, clean fittings, uncluttered, and most of all, not blocking the natural light). I recognized the inspiration from Eric Enjoys Earth but you improved a number of things, especially the couch mode, you nailed that. Also that water pump! Didn't know they came that small.

[@deeh5048]

I’m so impressed by this!Wow! I would love to have those skills. This is really awesome.

[@MarcillaSmith]

@@budluck8820 Ditto! I've seen similar layouts, but the mechanics of others look to a greater or lesser degree a little clunky. The way he fashioned everything, utilized the right hardware, etc. it just makes it all fit together right :: thumbs up ::

[@shoukathkhan3646]

I could agree no more. This is the best I have seen

[@TanselGaraj]

That bug screen idea is awesome 👏🏼

[@kelpico]

The window screen thing is genius!!

[@mariebernier3076]

YOU sewed this? I'm a professional maker of custom sewn home products. You have talent. Dang.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment! I left this part of the project for last, because it was a bit intimidating. But after watching many videos and refreshing some long-unused sewing skills, they came out fine. One sewing tip I learned about for this project was to use double sided adhesive basting tape - this made things go so much faster, and I was able to make the covers without using a single straight pin!

[@mariebernier3076]

@@travelswithrob4970 I've never heard about that magical tape, but I'll be looking it up for sure now! You are a natural.

[@BeccifromOz]

I see inspiration from the Eric Enjoys Earth channel. Great job 👏

[@AdventuresThings]

I was thinking the exact same thing

[@KlouseInTheKloudz]

I saw that too

[@fifigirl8208]

One should always give credit to the person you gained inspiration from. Thanks Eric. Well done Rob you've made it your own and love those fly screen window covers. Great idea.

[@dnb888]

Very nice!! I personally would attempt to lengthen the counter top and include a burner with that sink. Then store a propane tank under there with the water jugs. I'd also install a roof fan, and hide it behind a roof top carrier with a solar panel. I'd also upgrade the power to the EcoFlow Delta 2 with Alternator Charger - that way I could run a Dometic 12v fridge for days at a time. I'd also consider a delete the front passenger seat for more storage, possible for the Dometic. Top notch 10/10

[@faze_buendia9514]

this is so great, it's exactly what I want to get my 20 yr old son in so he can go explore the world while he's still young

[@freshman2347]

I never had a father but would been great when you were mine

[@RBNWRO]

That’s so cool to hear, I’m 20 trying to get it all together myself, hope that worked out for y’all!

[@james-cal]

your a great parent

[@ZombicidalMadMom81]

Tell that to my son lol he sees it as me trying to “kick him out” Faze_Buendia is my son’s KZbin acct, I finally made my own heh

[@freshman2347]

@@ZombicidalMadMom81 i could Tell him, that i will buy your Camper If he does not want. I live in Germany and I am really interested building one Up. Maybe its Changes his mind when "Someone else wants to have His toy" 😄

[@Kathy_Is_Blessed]

Love this conversion!♥️ I had to laugh-I remember my junior year in high school, 1971, when they opened up home-ec class to guys too. Great memory! I learned to sew there also.

[@carolynlasher8896]

I remember sewing class back then, also cooking class. I wanted to take shop but girls weren't allowed. I have a 2008 Hyundai Entourage that I made into my camper. No wood work, didn't want anything to be permanent. So I used plastic bins for storage. My bed is 2 long ottomans with storage and just put 4" mattress on top. A basin and jugs of water to wash up, and camp stove if needed. I'm 70 but, never gave up on my dream. I only do short trips but, I love it!!

[@davidleigh443]

My high school did have shop or home ec.when in Jr. High boys had to take shop ( 7th grade was mechanical drawing and 8th grade was woodworking). That was 1972, 1973.

[@sdnlawrence5640]

Nifty build! I especially like the easy-peasy mosquito screen, I'm a retired upholstery guy and I never thought of that! (I'll probably sew magnetic tape on bottom or hem magnets into it.)

[@annawallace4629]

I’d pay you to convert my 2012 Honda Odyssey van. Don’t know where you are but we’re in Ohio. This is an awesome build. You did such a great job. Very impressive!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment, I appreciate it. This was my first van conversion project, and my main objective is to get out and use it, but I don't intend to make conversions into a business. I hope you're able to turn your vision into reality!

[@annawallace4629]

We’re impressed with your van build & hope we can do similar. Hope you’re enjoying the journey!

[@theJuniverse]

I was thinking the same thing. Looks like a lot of math and measuring and sewing....

[@matthewnepa]

Check out vanpackers in Canada. They sell kits for all minivans.

[@whaaat3632]

Brilliant. Especially like the open shelves and kitchen, which don't obstruct view for lane changes. Simple but very versatile. Finish is soooo professional. Watched all 3 videos and enjoyed the updates. Bracket for 4th bed support is genious.

[@pandachickenmama]

I have had coroplast on my windows for over a year now. I spray painted the side that faces out with black paint and it gives me the stealth I desire. I do remove the coroplast from the passenger side sliding door and the rear hatch window while driving. I like how you made your screens too!

[@fletcherprince]

What kind of black paint did you use?

[@pandachickenmama]

@@fletcherprince just a flat black spray can type, I probably bought at Dollar General.

[@mikam8801]

Coroplast also comes in black.

[@lynnsmith6221]

I’m curious how coroplast holds up in the windows? Does it fall out? I’m currently using reflectix and it doesn’t always stay in, especially when it gets hot. Also where do you buy it ?

[@pandachickenmama]

@@lynnsmith6221 I got my coroplast at Home Depot. It friction fits and stays in place by itself. I put a tab of gorilla tape on one edge to help pull it out when needed. I leave the coroplast up in the 3rd row windows as they don't inhibit driving but I do take it down on the 2nd row passenger side so I can see out while backing up. You need to store them flat, so either between the bed and the inside wall or underneath the mattress might be good locations. I took some old large maps to make my templates then cut the coroplast from those. Usually the car windows are mirror images of each other, so I only had to make one pattern for each row and then the rear window. I don't put any coroplast up front and just hang a dark curtain behind the two front seats to keep the back private.

[@Nothing-e3e]

Your attention to small details are outstanding. Your build is very clean, compact and very well thought out. This is one of the top three minivan camper build I’ve ever seen. Very impressive sir 😊

[@CraftHarlot]

The window screens are absolute genius!!!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you!

[@kimprocarione5473]

I love how well you explained the bed frame and anchoring process! You simplified the whole thing without dragging it out to where I quit listening while speaking at a speed I could understand the 1st time! Fantastic job! 👏

[@MrJaspermyboy]

Easily one of my favorite builts. It's clean and simple. Happy camping!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks!

[@vanished3306]

I am converting my Toyota Sienna into a camper van without making any modifications! All seats will remain, no Velcro or other such permanently things will be attached to any part of the interior, and everything will be accessible without getting out of the van. It is impossible to find anyone on KZbin that has done this but I am determined to. Maybe you will see me do my own KZbin conversion video someday soon!😁😆

[@bobbydigital18]

Im here for like the 5th time getting more pointers and just trying to copy the bed, GREAT JOB!!!

[@OffGridAdventure]

Great job on this build. That van will go unnoticed anywhere.

[@jamesharvey4817]

This guy must be an engineer, this is too perfect.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment. Actually I’m a chemical engineer, but that didn’t help me much on this build!

[@ekindemirkaya465]

Oh boy i'm an engineer and my projects always sucks.

[@mariebernier3076]

I thought the exact same! He has a really high level of understanding and ability to envision 3-D forms in space.

[@maddog3768]

I'm an aircraft engine mechanic, I can tear down a 777 engine but I can't do this.

[@vedapernell6602]

​@travelswithrob4970 Yes, it did! Engineers always pay close attention to detail, and you did an excellent job.❤

[@monnaprovost7294]

It is perfect! I have a Dodge GC & would like to see more of the storage unit with shelves. I subbed to your new channel in the hope that you do another video about that. Mo in NJ

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment! I'm planning two more (short) videos on this build, one on the sink/pump system, and another on the bed frame/platform and the shelf unit.

[@arleneportsmouth1263]

😯😲😳🧐 WTH !🙉 I SWEAR, I THOUGHT THIS WAS A BRAND NEW 2024 VEHICLE ! IT IS IN PRISTINE CONDITION. GOOD ON YOU.👏🏻🏆 I LOVE THE DESIGN OF THESE OLDER MODELS.

[@txJoJo55]

WOW that sewing job was amazing !!!! Love your bed too. This conversion is simple but amazing .

[@andypaluch7038]

Great Job! Thanks for sharing. I love Eric Enjoys Earth setup but your embellishments on the front legs are a better and I appreciate all the links for the hinges and other parts.

[@franzbibfeldt]

Excellent job! You're a Master Craftsman. Not only is it well thought out but you took the time to make it fit perfectly and still look great! AND you did it all without any hokey background music--imagine that! Carry on, Rob R,! Carry on!!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment!

[@TheIvoryman]

Terrific job! Especially liked your sliding bed. And the sink setup was simple and efficient, in order to conserve water, as you stated.

[@raylenetatum8185]

This is by far the best conversion I have seen. Loved everything you did. Take care.

[@tinypaperbow]

This design is so well thought-out and I'm honestly so inspired by this set up. Truly in awe. Amazing job well done!

[@DoubleOld7]

That window screen idea was absolutely Brilliant!

[@TheVanThatGotAway]

Great build, thanks for sharing it! I love your DIY bug screens, those are very clever. I also used the corrugated plastic for my windows but I cut out the middle and stretched the bug screen across. Looks like great handywork and your sewing skills are on point. 😃

[@joianne7511]

I love the screens for the windows that is really cool I love the why you you built your van out

[@wendybeiermann815]

Thank you for steps on this.

[@toddcouchman4344]

First of all, brilliant build. But super impressed on the sewing job!!!

[@lalou456]

very nice job Rob, Eric is a huge influence for all of us

[@krishanshivakaur4498]

Hi from England....Very nice build thanks for sharing, I like the bug screens too!

[@nwlightfoot7439]

Absolutely the best design. Appreciate the sharing of ideas.

[@robrobinson9281]

Love this build it reminds me of the VW westie I had back in the seventies. Thanks for sharing,

[@shirleydelehanty3466]

I made window covers and put black reflective on them. I got a fold out screen for the front windshield, and used fabric glue on one side to attach black fabric. I made window screens for my back windows by buy fold up wired sunscreens from wall mart, taking the fabric off and tailoring black netting to them. They fit completely inside my window frames so I can choose how much to roll down my windows when I'm sleeping. Its usually not enough for anyone to reach in to open the door. Then I twist them into a small oval and store them in the pockets behind the passenger seat.

[@paige6028]

I've watched hundreds of van build & yours is by far the most solid, practical, nicest I've seen so far! GREAT JOB! The cushions look GREAT & the bed/seat build is AMAZING! Love the screen idea also! BTW, I can't not mention the table & the attention to detail of having it closer to eat on & further away to work on. BRILLIANT! With so many people doing this now, you could definitely benefit from patenting this! I saved this video for future reference.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comments, I appreciate it!

[@karenb3857]

Love your diy mosquito screens... Clever!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you! 😊

[@sherryBigDogLover]

Love it! I have a 2010 Honda Odyssey and have been really struggling with the different builds to figure out what would work best with for my situation. This is the best design I have seen yet! And it seems simple enough that I might even be able to do it! The bed is absolutely the best part. And you're sewing skills are better than mine 😊

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment. I left the sewing of the cushion covers to the last step of the build because it seemed a bit intimidating. But after watching at least a dozen videos about how to do it, I just blasted ahead and went for it. One really good tip I learned was to use double sided basting tape instead of straight pins to hold the pieces together while sewing - game changer! This made assembly much faster and easier, and I made all four cushions without using a single straight pin.

[@1Seriouslyserious]

I am a competitive quilter --- I can definitely sew a straight line, but your sewing skills are just **WOW**! I will need some serious work to get to that level!

[@mjremy2605]

The Alpicool 12V compressor fridge 42 quarts is a nice fridge. Very efficient in power use. Gear Labs reviewed it well. I love what you did with the Coroplast - it lets the light in. And the bug screen slip cover is sheer genius. Its not every day that you meet a person with cross over skills like sewing and woodworking, and quietly walks you through a superb build. Everything you build so far is very well thought out, functional, and comfortable. Thank you! Subscribed

[@marks-0-0]

I agree, keep it simple and enjoy being outdoors. I'm going to sell my van and just using my car for trips.

[@stacybarrs9765]

Great ideas. 👍🏼

[@QChord4Fun]

Very nice, and well thought out and some good ideas. For now we are using single foam pads, cut a little narrower. Stacked 4 high, the make a nice couch on one side. So we have room to move around in the day time. For sleeping we just flip two over, and have a full bed that is 8 inches deep. Very comfy. We have room for two sets of small drawers at the back that hold all we need, and there is still room for the little commode. I made basically the same thing as you for our side windows, only black on one side, and reflective on the other. Helps a lot on hot days. First thing I did was make the slip over bug screens, have them for the car too. But I made a set of nice fabric ones too we slip those over for either privacy or shade if parked. I have a large sheer bug curtain for the side door that goes off and on with magnets. We carry 3 gal. or drinking/cooking water, a two gallon pump bottle that sprays for 2 1/2 minutes, and a pop up changing tent. We don't need anything else. Looking forward to our next trip to the coast. BTW our van is a 2001 Chrysler Voyager.

[@thanatoskatakrima5864]

Nice 👍 I’m sleeping in a cot with a memory foam mattress. Lots of storage underneath. I eventually plan to upgrade to a bigger van 🚐 so it’s tempting to try to rearrange things, but I know that with a little bit of patience, I’ll be moving in to something better 😊

[@Vinodchristudas]

absolute genius

[@zkat13]

Super nice job! The coraplast is brilliant! Still allows light.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you! Yes, I like that the van stays bright during daytime, and the early morning glow is allowed in.

[@lkw911news9]

Rob this is awesome ☺️

[@sandycoutu8846]

This build is awesome so neat,clean and thought out. The screen idea is brilliant! Happy camping enjoy the fruits of your labor.

[@susanh695]

Nice conversion I have to remember your simple bug screen solution.👏

[@donna8128]

Nice job Rob! Thanks for your video and sharing your ideas, it always helps us dreamers get a little further along.

[@sharonatseanicstudios9970]

Where has this video been for two whole months?? The best campervan video I've seen yet. Thank you.

[@sharonatseanicstudios9970]

I just made the screens you showed and they turned out fabulously. What a GREAT idea...thank you.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment, I'm glad your screens worked out!

[@pittielover]

Great job. Hope you kept the drawings. You can turn this into a small business to help those of us unskilled.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for watching and commenting. I don't have drawings, there were way too many weird curves and angles, and there are so many different van models with different dimensions!

[@susandunne9712]

Best van build I've seen. Simple and practical and your clear no nonsense instructions are excellent. Coroplast (we call it Corflute here in New Zealand) is excellent - you can paint it or glue blackout fabric to one side if you wish - or do a cover in blackout like your flyscreen.... I'll be watching your "how to" videos. 😊

[@aerofpv2109]

Your woodwork is so smooth and perfect. And I thought I was OCD haha.

[@successfulMillennial]

I was born 85 and my high school had home economics....I learned how to sew and cook... we also had wood shop and driving training. I think all those programs stopped by 2007

[@oldfarmer9004]

Your window ideas are great! I like the way you stitched the front window screens so you can move the glass up and down without disturbing the screen. And the coroplast? Yeah that’s a good idea too. Lets in enough light to see what you’re doing without someone peeking in. As long as you’re not trying to become invisible that should work fine. Hopefully it’s all working out for you

[@melemarshall4790]

Great job!!!! Would you be so kind as to share your measurements of the different pieces? Thanks so much for sharing this. I absolutely love it.

[@belindaransom3551]

I’d be very interested in purchasing your schematics! Another guy sells his design for $20 which I think is brilliant!

[@KampingKatie]

Absolutely beautiful!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you!

[@batMelek]

Loving the uncluttered simplicity of your build. In my senior years, I finally understand the wisdom end beauty of foresight. Now, if only I can find someone with that level of wisdom to help this stroke survivor plan and build my 136" wheelbase Ram ProMaster 1500 full time camper before all my savings are spent paying rent in Central Florida.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment, and good luck with your plan!

[@margaretkelly9878]

Beautiful build. I admire your work and the simplicity and functionality of it all.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you very much!

[@robertlester9566]

Really nice, solid build! Love it. The window coverings are smart. Reflectix is kinda a pain to use over time. It shrinks, doesn't stay in etc.

[@tallgirlhappyme]

▶️ *I really appreciate your resourcefulness, and the straightforward simplicity with which you explain the build. Thank you!*

[@gregs250]

Very nice conversion. I made a much simpler conversion where I only built a 24 inch wide bed so I could store things underneath. My comment is about your window coverings. If you ever camp at a store/truck stop/rest area they tend to be well lit. You may want something that keeps the light out while you're sleeping. I often find myself staying in Walmart parking lots on the way to my destination and I'm glad that I'm able to block out the light. You have a great setup and I'm sure that you will really enjoy using it.

[@tennesseeterri]

That sounds great. Can you share your conversion? Thanks

[@gregs250]

@@tennesseeterri I don't see a way to attach a photo, but I can describe it. I have a bed that is 4-8 inches above the floor and covers half of the back of the van. The other half is covered with a plastic floor runner that allows me to easily sweep out the dirt or sand. I keep a lot of my things in rubber totes or dollar tree containers. My window coverings are simply reflectix cut to fit windows with black felt glued to one side. I also have a thick felt curtain separating the front from the back. When the curtain is pulled and the window coverings are up, I have privacy to change clothes or sleep in a well lit parking lot. It's not nearly as elaborate as the one in this video, but I do 3 to 4 week trips. It's functional for my needs without being to complicated. I believe a lot of people's builds are more complicated than they need to be and they may find they don't use some of the things like the sink. I did my basic build and took a trip. I found that I didn't miss some of the other things that some people have.

[@MonicaGonzalez-ir6xl]

Its another similar version of Eric, nice version! congratulations!!

[@kellyrankin956]

Great job! Looking forward to more videos! Curtains etc

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks! Two additional videos on this build are coming soon!

[@mikestone9129]

Nice simple build, but very functional.

[@OldEarthWisdom]

I loved my reflectix for my van because it really helped keep the van cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold. It will be interesting to see how your plastic window shields react to the heat. Nice setup!!!

[@lyndavonkanel8603]

Oh, at last, a solution for keeping the mosquitoes out! I like the window covers and the rest of your build. Happy cramping!

[@stephaniesturgeon5591]

I love this idea build 😍 I planned a minivan build last year & used my stimulus check to buy a van but I ended up buying a lemon Saturn Relay minivan😤. Kinda hard to watch all these videos with a van sitting for 2 mo. that I cant drive🙄. I really like your whole build. Good job 👍

[@JessieMakesThings]

Rob! This conversion and your video are both wonderful! I’m converting a 2006 Odyssey right now and you’ve helped me so much. I’ll definitely be sewing your bug screens and using your sink configuration. Thank you!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks, good luck with your project!

[@kyongbriggs8488]

Rob- thanks for your reply regarding necessity of removing floor before converting back to “seats”. Absolutely love the simplicity/cost of doing this build .. your overview and presentation are terrific- thanks again: I plan on doing this build for my 2003 Chrysler van. Tones

[@josedelossantos2428]

Looks like people are getting the idea of how you can come up with the ideas people share and your own. Nice and impressive custom look you might want to sell your plan so if people are interested they can build from that van model .

[@MiraLeeAvonIndepSalesRep]

One of the best DIY camper vans I have seen on KZbin.

[@jatorresrv]

AWESOME built! Lots of creative and great ideas. Thanks for sharing, and the list is much appreciated too.

[@gwenruckey6817]

That's a very nice van conversion! Exactly what I want for mine.

[@silvercurlgirl]

Thanks Bob for sharing your design skills with us! I appreciate all your work wisdom and cost saving ideas!

[@laineydavis2497]

Just watched this video. Wow! That’s fantastic! Simplicity at its finest! Makes me want to buy a mini-van!! 😂 Thanks for sharing!

[@forestcobra7796]

Excellent build and quite clever! Thanks for sharing!

[@mikyo444]

great build bro!

[@robinwheatcraft6034]

i love the idea about the bug screen! awesome!

[@bobmirror7164]

I did sewing in a home economics class in the 1970's as well. I wish they would have taught me how to use a toaster oven too. Nice setup. Being able to have a "quick configurations change" is the way to go. I just shake my head at most van builds.

[@joer1757]

phenomenal job.. really good engineering

[@YasarHabib]

Rob, this is one of the best, most functional builds I've ever seen online. I can't wait to see your platform build. Well done, Sir!

[@AnnieGill7]

Wow!!! This is neat, open, easy to use, and smart. One of the best conversions I have seen! Sweet!!!!

[@jackiejackson935]

You are a genius. I didn't learn to sew in home ec. I did learn long hand shorthand. Could a spice reach go on back of bed? For cooking. Thanks

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comment! I keep spices in a plastic bin under the bed, but there are other places a spice rack could be mounted, such as on the side of the shelf by the sink counter. I've only used the van for short trips so far, but if I need more spices, I'll probably mount a rack.

[@jadef6784]

Hi Rob, love your video, beautiful conversion. Love how detailed you are, and with clear step by step instructions. You’re a great instructor 😆👍🏼thank you

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thanks for your comments!

[@nhung7592]

Great build! You've provided several ingenious ideas! Thank you!!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you very much!

[@dawnsmith4275]

I'm seeing this two years after you posted... This is genius! So simple and efficient. It looks good while being functional. My husband and I are finishing up a "convertible" build in our new-to-us Sprinter (2006 with 296,000 miles). I wanted the option of having passenger seats and used a similar bed design (the seats fit in front of the bed when it's in bench mode). Thanks to your video, I know how I want to do the sink!! Safe travels!!

[@Chickmamapalletfarm]

Great job! I like the window coverings. I occasionally do a no build conversion in our van, and I actually love the light coming in, in the wee morning hours. Your privacy solution is the best of all things, IMO. 👍

[@tortangtalong1]

Great solution for the bed legs folding. Some builds I have seen have the frame sticking out when in couch mode which didn't look nice.

[@bubbajay5077]

Love the build & the idea of shortening the front frame. I’ve been looking for something like this so I can put OEM (mid) seats in while using as a daily driver!! Love it!!

[@ooglek]

This is awesome. I hope to build something similar!

[@gypsybelle4757]

Thank you for showing your build without cushions and all the other items for living yet put in. Great breakdown of an outstanding build!

[@luissalazar8996]

Excellent minimalist build.

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you!

[@ekindemirkaya465]

This is awesome! Safe travels!

[@travelswithrob4970]

Thank you! Will do!

[@loriwalker-brandon9163]

Very well done - nice clean lines and the simplicity yet how well it will work is beautiful!

[@shariburns6263]

I like that you made your own window screen and I also like your other window coverings. Great job on everything, including the making of the video.

[@MontenegroNoel]

Great build ! Doing it to my sienna