Stealth Nissan NV200 Camper Van Build on a Budget

[@61Slughi]

The reflective vest is a good idea, but having a bunch of sun faded paperwork all over the dash really makes it look like a work van.

[@jeffwagg]

I often leave a fast food bag on the dash or passenger seat. :)

[@xiaomengtang7465]

This is one of the smartest small van stealth build I have seen! So simple but functional!

[@esparka]

The concern over such aspects as, for example, using IKEA cabinets & such, is thoroughly tempered by the savings of perhaps over $150,000.00 dollars from those Corp.-produced numbers.. I like it..

[@maradall]

That back vent is pure genius!

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks - it’s a bit risky though, as exhaust could come through, but I’m careful to keep it covered when I’m driving.

[@mariad4183]

@@jeffwagg thank you for this detail :)

[@barryjenkinson9152]

Dont vehicles already have vents for circulation?

[@Zerpersande]

The Uni-Strut or whatever that metal rail is on top… I put a Thule roof rack on my NV200 and then installed that rail on the cross bars. I did that bc the roof on my 2020 model is curved. Did you just crank down on those bolts and flatten it out? I put 3 solar panels on top of mine and laid width-wise that was 2.2m of roof space, the entire roof so that curvature prevented me from doing this.

[@Zerpersande]

Yeah, you should have skipped your electrical system.

[@pbandthevan]

Added 'Velcro Wall' to my van build must-haves. I might be biased as someone who just bought an e-NV200, but small van builds are the most satisfying to watch as they're often so inventive and smart with how space is used. Thanks for sharing.

[@nv200camper4]

Nice job, always good to see how others have converted a NV200 "on the cheap", nothing wrong with using bits and pieces from Ikea :)

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks! 👍 Ikea has some good bits - I think custom cabinets would be better, but poorly done custom cabinets would not be. For my next build, I'll give custom a shot, but it's definitely out of my comfort zone.

[@nv200camper4]

@@jeffwagg I built my cabinets using Ikea kitchen doors, good and cheap and no major joinery skills needed. When you come to do your next build maybe rope in a friend to give you a hand? Anyway, enjoy your van, safe travels (Y)

[@jeffwagg]

@@nv200camper4 This is a GREAT way to go. I redid a home with an Ikea kitchen and it's much better quality than the furniture. Not an allen wrench in sight! Also, you can find bits and pieces in the As Is section for really cheap. All my bamboo counter top came from there and it was like $15.

[@ADVNomad]

What an awesome build. I've watched a hundred build videos, but this has everything, and well organized. Great video- Thank you!

[@maryp9466]

First of all, this is the funniest camper van tour I have seen. The fruit doesn't stick. haha. But secondly, some amazingly clever ideas I have definitely not seen elsewhere. I am gaga for the vanity with mirror, and would love the showerhead on a hook vs handheld so I can wash my hair easily. But also impressed by something as simple but important as a security peephole. And, I can not believe how you hid that toilet in such a small space! Thanks so much for this. Major props to a fellow Chicagoan!

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks for the very kind words, Mary! Hoping to do some sort of Chicagoland van meetup after we're done with this pandemic.

[@charisma-hornum-fries]

The great part of using IKEA is the amount of spare parts and when there’s smaller changes you want to do through time in the van it’s is affordable and easy to do. It looks like home.

[@carolhughes312]

I have those ikea units in my van and they are still going strong after 8 years.

[@jeffwagg]

IKEA can work! We have proof.

[@perdidonoglobo]

My favorite conversion so far. Great job. You've got many (fans) right here also. Thanks for sharing.

[@Moira_Gloucestershire]

In the UK, Nissan used to sell electric version eNV200. About £26K for 40 kWh battery. No more. Factory moved from Spain to France.

[@texvirtualsolutions7598]

Your vans conversion is amazing! I hope your doing great... i can really hear a man heavily breathing.. enjoy your travel and keep safe =) ciao!

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks, and yep, I'm a heavy breather. Pulse Ox is good though. :)

[@IlusIl]

Best bed... It's keep it clean for bed time... Open it only when ready to sleep & all door is locked 😂

[@stevenchen1338]

Nice to finally see you and your van build! Your podcast has been inspirational. I might just go out and buy a fire extinguisher as a symbolic token of my future van.

[@jeffwagg]

Do! And I hope you never need it. Thanks for the kind words.

[@crippyandkaatje]

That's why I'm gonna do this weekend! Buy a cute red fire extinguisher for the van I will hopefully get in ,2021!

[@lindasanders6777]

I'm amazed! I just bought the same van in Cayenne Red 3 days ago, and didn't know how much stuff would be possible to get in there. I love the bed and the sink/shower deal especially. Great job!

[@alisonb4898]

Great van build with only two things I would change , leaving a hi viz vest on show would think maybe tools in the back and the wiring under the sink, if you have a leak then you’re also going to have electrical trouble.

[@jeffwagg]

Both fair comments! The electrical under the sink was not what I wanted, but in the end, it made the most sense given space restrictions (The MPPT controller is huge). I never had a problem, but I'd always advise folks not to do that.

[@athollmcnicoll1028]

Orangey red lights are more conducive to a human's eye sight as it allows more to be seen than a glaring white/yellowish lighting effect, so good on you for choosing it.

[@jeffwagg]

Having the red light option is great. Easier on the eyes, and if you’re stealth camping, much less noticeable to people on the outside. I attend astronomy events sometimes, so it’s a must.

[@lindak8664]

Not too sure that reflective vest would help that much here. If the right person happened along they’d think they were breaking into a tradie’s van full of tools and rub their hands together. Love what you did with the van though. Not all of us can build! So these ‘what can i adapt for my needs’ builds are great for ideas.

[@jeffwagg]

You have a point - I mitigate this a bit by leaving a McDonald's bag on the passenger seat. But hey, at least you have something to wear if you get a flat on the side of the road!

[@johanlindh]

That's a fantastic build. I love the fact that you used readily available IKEA stuff and that all was so well thought through.

[@heldenhaut]

Man, the BEST NISSAN NV200 I ve ever seen!!!!! Congrats! The most beautiful minicamper! I love your hooks, the details and you are very practical. Exactly like I am. You've done this wonderfully, really. I bought one in red and soon I go in tour. Still in progress, 😄 Thank you for your inspiration! 🍀 🍄 🌈

[@Bestbirths]

So many things I love about this build. Hot hands brings back memories, that's how I stayed warm in a tent.

[@jeffwagg]

Hot Hands are like little packets of comfort. There are nights I just have one in the sleeping bag with me, kind of like a tiny little kitten.

[@vivianramsay2527]

Nice thoughtful build! I believe the Ikea brand materials are very appropriate for this type of build due to lighter weight materials and flexible sizes. Easier hauling weight on the vehicle as well. So I don't think that apologies are necessary. Thanks for sharing!

[@8paradoxful]

That bed is just genius-level ingenuity!

[@im9240]

Watched HUNDREDS and this is the BEST build!

[@christinacutlass1694]

I like that you used ikea cabinets because I can’t customize my sienna as I’m a disabled 67 year old. Great ideas and organization. Love all of it. Your emergency food ideas too.

[@sheilajoseph9953]

I've got to say your build has got to be the best I've seen in a nissan nv200 well done. You've thought of everything.

[@ohduana6746]

It looks like Ikea has what smaller campers need. The cabinet and bed system look like they work GREAT with the size.

[@mjmcinnesincanada]

Hi you, it’s MJ! I like your #vanconversion and your channel so much, I’m now a subscriber! Awesome!!!!🌺

[@jsvensson8234]

Steeling the back vent idea. So incredibly smart 🤩

[@jeffwagg]

Just be sure it seals well and that you have a CO detector. I’ve had no problems, but Caution is warranted.

[@thesilentcartographer5273]

I have the S and want cruise control on it so I'm installing an aftermarket kit on it. I've always thought the wheels were a little too small so I want to upgrade those to a larger size as well.

[@jeffwagg]

Supposedly, there are larger Volvo wheels that fit nicely. Check the forums.

[@priscillabohn4621]

you have the most efficient awesome made van I have ever seen and I have watched for 2 years

[@mymai2792]

Like the hidden loo...& backdoor peep hole...& swivel tap u can attach shower hose. This is well designed - & u've thought of everything.

[@maryp9466]

Right? All those things! Plus a budget dog bowl sink.

[@justsayin39]

Yeah, the hidden toilet is lux!

[@SteveHazel]

i gotta nv200 too - i'm gonna copy a loooootta your stuff - thanks dude !

[@kontrop6339]

i absolutely love the chair/bed combo

[@trillingnot]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing man. I’m looking to convert a NV200 myself come spring, and being Swedish a soft spot for IKEA kinda comes with the birth certificate.. 😊 This video was loads of inspiration for my build. 👍🏼👍🏼 Tanks again!

[@timokriis]

I absolutely love Your van! Very cosy and nicely composed!

[@thefinancialneurologist]

beautiful and functional NV200 van build

[@classicself00]

I really like it. I'm hoping to get a nissan van & convert it as well for 2 people.

[@jeffwagg]

They're great vans. For two folks, you'll want fewer cabinets, and maybe some roof storage. :) My wife can actually sleep across the front seats of mine.

[@powderedwiglouis1238]

this couch ikea pull out thing is brilliant ! its a great use of space in my opinion well done

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks Louis! Every inch counts!

[@powderedwiglouis1238]

@@jeffwagg yeah thats right which is why the double use of space you did is so smart

[@grandmeaulne]

Beautiful van! I’m going to borrow from your design :) A few questions: those Ikea cubes. How to they handle the shaking nd climate variations in a hot or cold van? Also, did you insulate the van? And finally, that vent. I realized i couldn’t install a MaxxAir because the structure beams are too close for the 14 inch standard opening. I guess it was the only option?

[@jeffwagg]

@@grandmeaulne The cubes have done fine - they move a bit, but when attached to each other as a unit and to the side of the van in one place, they're pretty solid. The doors are the weak point - the magnetic catches do NOT hold the doors shut, hence the other things I used. The vent is a Vanair Ventline, and it's fine, but not as a good as Maxair. The folks who put a full sized 14x14 fan in these simply cut through one of though roof ribs. It's fine. The roof can only hold 100lbs anyway, so you really shouldn't be putting much up there. Solar is fine. As for insulation, yes, I did. Felt on the floor and walls, poly iso on the ceiling, rock wool in the crevices and closed cell spray foam in the ribs, back doors, etc.

[@mrpheasant9174]

@@jeffwagg thats what she said🤣😂 couldnt help myself🤐 love the van man, imma get one of these nv200 aswell, they look great!

[@DivineMojo]

Loved the setup but Loved your sense of humor even more. So Great! 🤣🤣👏🏼👏🏼💜 Nice job and Happy Travels!! 😁🙏🏼💜💖🎶🌞🌈🚙💨

[@nwlady1844]

one of the best small van designs I've seen. congrats!

[@rowdysgirlalways]

Well, people know about your secret compartment now... I think that using IKEA products is brilliant! And your hidden toilet is great. Back up systems are great, especially when you need them. That's why I have two power stations, numerous power banks, battery lanterns, A weather radio, an alcohol stove etc. I think your build is one of the best builds I've seen. You have everything! And your keeping yourself safe with the detectors and the fire extinguisher. Those are so very important! All of the hooks are great, good thinking and organized. The flowers are a nice touch. I have known men who raised orchids as a hobby and they were definitely manly men!😉 So you having a few plants and flowers is just fine. The hand warmers are so useful. When my friend was taking the bus to work every day, she used them all the time. I even bought a box of them from Costco for her. Yes, I love your little van. I think you did a brilliant job putting it together. You've done such a good job, I have no suggestions to improve it! I know you have a shovel, duct/gorilla tape, scissors, sewing repair kit, rope, zip ties, etc. I didn't need to see them. The shower is clever, even if cold. That has reminded me of something I saw on another build: A water tank on the roof. The guy had a PVC water tank attached to his roof rack. It held 5 gallons of water and it looked like one of those PVC pipes that workmen have on top of their vans to hold pipes and other long things. But my thought is, you could use that for your showers and have sun warmed showers instead of cold. Maybe on your next van. Oh, bug screens too. I've seen the curtains and the custom DIY window screens. I hate mosquitoes as much as they love my blood. I really love your van and I can't wait to see the next one you build!

[@crippyandkaatje]

Brilliant, what a great build. I got so many ideas and inspiration. Would like to see videos on your build itself, the walls and carpeted compartments are so well done. Great job 👍

[@jeffwagg]

Sadly, I did not record as I built. :(

[@jennyleef1775]

Nice build. I really like the way you have set her up. Plus you have everything you need inside. Now you have me checking out the IKEA beds.

[@mp180170]

Come on let’s face it there is absolutely nothing wrong with IKEA stuff you have done an amazing job I would be very proud to own this Van BIG thumbs up from the 🇬🇧 uk 👍🏼 & the sneaky toilet is genius!

[@jeffwagg]

IKEA stuff is what it is. It can absolutely be used in vans if you know its limitations. I love the UK! Cheers....

[@juanduque7983]

they have the cruise control kit for the S model, just have to unscrew and pull back the steering while along the air bag (carefull not to pull that too hard/off otherwise it will set off), there should be a small PCB already installed with the correct pinout and connections to install that kit, the way you can tell vehicles have this feature is the check for small right behind the while attached to the steering column right where you would think the cruise control would be on most vehicles

[@brenokobayashi7689]

Your van is amazing. I'm looking into NV200s to convert and yours is just what I was looking for.

[@Glitchgambit]

The peep hole you have on the back door is a great idea! thanks for sharing!

[@blackwhite9177]

Wow this is a very well done wan, everything in there built is very functional. Well done my friend. U r hell of a smart man.

[@MontenegroNoel]

Beautiful! Can't believe there is an ideal system that will fit this 200 nv

[@dees.4481]

That build and van tour was wonderful!! Enjoy and happy travels!

[@speterbilt]

This is the van I want to travel in and build out. Fantastic build

[@glennk.7348]

I like the vent behind license plate idea!

[@IR088Y]

Your build is actually really cool I wish you did a tutorial on everything in there I love how the bed is the roof the floor the whole shebang

[@jeffwagg]

Yeah - I should have filmed as I was building. I'm happy to answer any questions about anything. I'll be doing a new build next year that will document everything.

[@donnaledbetter1571]

@@jeffwagg please show how you secured your furniture to the van

[@brown55061]

Excellent job top to bottom. Great ideas everywhere in this little van. Safe travels.

[@mariad4183]

You are AMAZING! I've never seen a license plate vent or PEEPHOLE! Pure genius! Thank you for sharing! xoxo

[@blakepoland227]

Great stealth van conversion! Thanks for sharing.

[@Joyregimeband]

Loved! I have a 2019 NV200. No build build for now, but want to do something more like you in the some day

[@Lastdayone]

Omg! Thanks for sharing! I wonder if I can fit the bed into my hatchback!! This would be perfect because idk how to build anything lol. Thanks for posting the links! I’m going to visit ikea this week to take a look

[@jeffwagg]

Measurements are on Ikea's site! You'll need 75" of length extend fully, but you may not need to.

[@bobsimcox1194]

Very nice set up my man! And I like those complete meals as well, they taste pretty good and are not too expensive

[@jeffwagg]

I saw a new trick - you leave the meal on the dashboard for a few hours, and it's hot when you want to eat it!

[@juliava605]

I challenge builders to build a mini-campervan with an Nissan 200V or similar that prioritizes a tiny bathroom for road-tripping. Not a toilet that pulls out into the main cabin, but a teeny tiny bathroom space. GO! haha

[@nadiaddis1145]

I likes the cut of your jib!! I've seen one integrated under a seat bench. I think the kid was up in San Francisco somewhere. It's on KZbin. However one could always, if one lives in a big city, in Arizona Nevada California, Stay close to a 24 Hour Fitness and use the shower there but during the summer time I like taking my 2-3 showers per day, to keep cool and sweat free.

[@jerry680]

Your van is very cool. I love how you have used IKEA furniture, especially the bed.

[@shirleyrowe4078]

What a nice rig! Your tour was perfectly professional as far as I’m concerned. I am doing my maiden voyage in January and a small SUV. We’ll see how 2025 goes before I invest in a van. For now all I can do is salivate and be jealous of all you talented individuals!

[@jeffwagg]

You've already begun!

[@AndrewSheldon]

Best cramped camper layout I've seen. Probably only issue for me is discomfortably low seatage for working on that small table.

[@jeffwagg]

Actually, it was too much seat. :) the biggest problem I had with it was not having a back to lean against.

[@user-vm5ud4xw6n]

Sweet little build! Really nice. Really dig the bed. Didn’t know those came like that ready made. A lot of folks do them in their buses or shuttle buses on the sofa so they have an extra place for guests. I would rather have one already built. Who knows what the outcome would be if I made it! If it’s warm out you can always just shower in a swim suit too. Take care of personal parts when you get back in. Very nice job. Tried looking on the IKEA website for the bed system but couldn’t find it. Sometimes websites are more of a pain then helpful!

[@NicholsKT]

I love your build ... great ideas, great tour!

[@Watuba]

Cool video! Do you hear more noise because of those solar panels (while driving)? Thank you. Oh, and the vent...

[@jeffwagg]

Not on this build. There was a roof rack up there already so it had a similar aerodynamic profile.

[@Watuba]

@jeffwagg Thanks! All the best.

[@lyric8529]

Really enjoyed all your clever features. Thank you for sharing. Off to see if I can find your podcast!

[@cecileturner450]

this is the best stealth van build i'have seen thus far

[@lyric8529]

Love your little van! You have so many GREAT features that I don't think I've seen in any other vans. (& I've been watching van build videos it seems like forever) Looking at the date I see this is an older video, I hope you did another one where you take more time. Maybe I will try slowing this one down or pausing more. 😊

[@jeffwagg]

Sorry about that - this video was originally just a Facebook Live that I posted on KZbin. You can see more of the van in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/n4mre2V_f9Sqb6s

[@dvfreelancer]

I think for camping and traveling that would be awesome. For full timing it might be a tad cramped. Brilliantly designed.

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks, and I think it would be too small for me to full time in, but the person I sold it to IS full timing in it. With a dog!

[@captainandrewcrabtree]

The peep hole and the license plate vent ideas are great... nice work!

[@darrensmith3539]

Brilliant! My fav part is the drone holder

[@jeffwagg]

And there it sat - not a very good drone. :)

[@YourName-mp8ch]

That's awesome dude. I hid my solar panels behind roof bars to make it even more stealthy. You can even add a ladder and pop some magnetic business logos on the side to blend in

[@jeffwagg]

I had always intended to put something over the angle iron. But now the new owner will do something cool with it.

[@77esto]

BEST VIDEOS EVER!!✌ Thanks😊👍

[@lynnescaddan8919]

Build to go :: this is great when ur working away from home, will save a bit on hotels. Wow u have a toilet, ace plus a cold shower, till u get home. Great van tour....thanq

[@PeterP_777]

Pagurus is a beauty. Awesome, awesome build. (I've got a Fort Transit Connect passenger van that I do a "no build" when traveling.)

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks for the kind words. You have a great van for the life.

[@tanamoba]

I like it. I'm also in an NV200 camper. Let's enjoy each other!

[@ChrisMarcinik]

Been listening (well I should say binging) to your podcast for a while at work, awesome to finally see your van! So awesome what you did with such little space definitely very inspirational. I never looked at the smaller vans like that to pursue my dream of van life but I would definitely consider it now!

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks, Chris! That’s very kind of you. Should be heading off to its new owner on Friday. :( ,.,.,

[@freedomartwork6950]

OK, I had to look up "Pagura" - hermit crab. Funny! Nice build & especially love the peephole & hi-viz decoy vest.

[@jeffwagg]

Thanks! Both come in handy. I figure I’ll wear the vest if I ever break down or go hiking during hunting season. ;)

[@dawnsmith4275]

Very cool build! So much in such a small space. I enjoyed your quick tour - even though I go a little dizzy at times😄You're funny! Safe travels!!

[@PEPPERKICKS]

im a trucker and the make a strainer for coffee you put it right over your cup with grounds and pour hot water on top and you have your drink! it is a reusable strainer and very small. better than carrying a coffee maker and gas stations usally have free hot water if you dont want to boil

[@Youneedkoolin]

Great build. Very entertaining commentary as well

[@KirstenMcdonald-e3y]

Love the build . Some great and clever ideas. Thank you. the wobbly camera is giving me vertigo though😂

[@jeffwagg]

Sorry about that - it was originally a Facebook Live.

[@everfree198102]

love your videos, I bought used NV200 with Adrian steel rail on the roof ( I saw the your video you have the same rail). what mount can I use to attach Solar panels on the rail just like you did?

[@jeffwagg]

I removed the spacers and put the rails right on the roof. Then I used angle iron attached to the roof rack rails and screwed the panels right in to the angle iron. Worked fine. :)

[@everfree198102]

@jeffwagg thank you!

[@jdswanda19]

PLEASE make more videos! My kids just told me about 'van life' and I'm buying a 2021 Nissan NV200 tomorrow! I am inspired to do this to my van, as I plan a cross country trip with my dog coming up. I need to know more about how you actually put it all together. Also, how all the electrical is done.

[@jeffwagg]

I talk about all of that in the podcast, Built to GO a vanlife podcast. But I’ll be putting up a lot more videos as well. :)

[@gordongrigsby5172]

Love the van build I have the same van I bought the whole wall liner ceiling and door panels through US upfitters cost installed 1300.00 but well worth it getting the air vent next.

[@jeffwagg]

It's a lot of money, but man, I spent a LOT of time and grief putting in all that carpeting. :)

[@-Suie-]

Pagurus is welmade on a "budget" love that ikea bed module, i thought of it with the backrest lol

[@-Suie-]

i was thinking of flottebo, but put a bigger table top on it (not to heavy tho)

[@ivanleterror9158]

Noticed the connection to Pembina ND. The homestead of my father's family the Monettes.

[@heinrichstreintz2852]

i am just converting my NV200, got a lot of great ideas.thank you!

[@jeffwagg]

Best of luck in your project! They're great vans.

[@heinrichstreintz2852]

Did your fix the eket to the ground, Wall? did you put an extra floor into the car? @@jeffwagg

[@jeffwagg]

I did screw it into the support pillars on the side of the van, and I screwed the cubes into each other. I also put a couple of screws into the floor. I did NOT have a subfloor in this vehicle because ceiling height was critical - the floor was just a bit of masonite with vinyl tiles over it. This furniture if fairly fragile, so when you screw it in to things, use good washers because the screw heads will pull out. @@heinrichstreintz2852

[@auroranite]

Wish i had the skills to do something like this. Very nice. Plus you have a Teriffic voice! Radio broadcasting quality👍

[@jeffwagg]

Ha, thank you. I do have a vanlife podcast called Built to GO! if you want to hear more of my voice. :) As for skills, I don't really have that many. Just a lot of determination.

[@CBAmakingAusername]

It looks amazing. You have thought of everything, it looks really comfy too x

[@leese.23]

Beautiful job

[@hollymacon8393]

I think your camper is amazing! Thanks for sharing your ingenious plans & gadgets.

[@Lifeof-Jo]

Love that bed and they don’t sell it anymore. Genius

[@jennifergraham9679]

this is a really nice build,,he has everything in there.

[@stephenkrus]

Sir... you got the neatest nv2000 stealth van camping build... ever! 👑✨👌

[@jeffwagg]

Thank you!

[@jackginther4782]

Hi, Jeff! Super digging the channel. Don't know why, but I find it easier to keep up with KZbin content than podcasts. Looking forward to more. Also, I noticed a certain flag patch easter egg! Aiming to be in Chicago a couple times this year. If you're not on the go, would love a tour in person, if you're amenable

[@jeffwagg]

Absolutely! Your iconic design stands out. :) I'll also let you know if I make it out near San Diego this year. Bunch of stuff I want to see in the area, but there is the tyranny of distance to contend with.

[@davidr7236]

Super clever and thorough fit out. Thanks for sharing all those ideas