VAN COST BREAKDOWN | How much did our DIY van conversion cost?

Curious how much our van conversion cost ? After posting our van tour video a few weeks ago, we had A LOT of questions about the cost of our DIY conversion. CLICK SHOW MORE!
This week we're sharing the full cost breakdown of how much it was to convert our van, Beatrice, from start to finish. We trust this will help give you an idea of how to plan and budget for your dream van conversion!
~~~ WATCH THE FULL VAN TOUR HERE ~~~
• VAN TOUR | Amazing Va...
Beatrice has a secret 2nd bed, a couch, a makeup vanity, desk, hot water, a ton of storage and more! She is packed with everything we need to live full-time on the road!
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vanhalla_adventures
HAVE QUESTIONS? Ask below! We LOVE our community and want to support YOU in following your dreams and getting on the road.
~~~ VAN CONVERSION ITEMS WE SUGGEST ~~~
(If you don't see something you are looking for, let us know!)
ELECTRIC
Batteries amzn.to/3peAuqh
2000 watt inverter amzn.to/3t5uOlQ
Isolator Switch amzn.to/2Y9yLaK
Distribution Center amzn.to/36bgmPi
Smart Battery Monitor amzn.to/2MkMdGi
SOLAR
Solar Panels amzn.to/2MP6JPY
Solar Charge Controller amzn.to/3aaVev1
Solar Brackets amzn.to/3qgIc4E
Solar Panel Breakers amzn.to/3qL9f7S
PLUMBING
Tank Heating Pads amzn.to/3sQszTn
Water Pump amzn.to/2Z9kf3o
Pump Silencing Kit amzn.to/2Z8ufKc
Accumulator Tank amzn.to/368JdUw
TOOLS
Heavy Duty Crimper amzn.to/3iMoVoB
Wire and Cable Cutter amzn.to/3iMR0wo
Miter Saw amzn.to/3oq95BD
Pocket Screw Jig amzn.to/3sSxlzA
HEATING
Insulation shop.havelockwool.com/
Insulating window covers www.vanmadegear.com/ref/Vanha...
Heating system we LOVE! amzn.to/2ZkUA85
LIGHTING
Bedroom Reading Lights amzn.to/3iJ9yxg
Puck Lights amzn.to/2NrZEVe
Dimmer amzn.to/3cb2TdW
LED lights for Garage amzn.to/2KQsJsG
ECO FRIENDLY STAIN + PAINT
Counter Top Citrus Solvent amzn.to/3cnaSVJ
Counter Top Stain + Sealant amzn.to/3rGu054
STRUCTURE / EXT VAN UPGRADES
Air Lifters amzn.to/3ojrH65
10' Awning bit.ly/3a2KsXn
Awesome tires amzn.to/3p4TCqP
Leveling blocks amzn.to/3cXjkLC
Mouse Deterrent amzn.to/3tFsbqZ
The BEST fan for vans amzn.to/2OCOygT
External LED Lights, 41in amzn.to/3jFw5eU
External LED Lights, 13in amzn.to/3aaXx17
Roof Rack amzn.to/3jDEdMW
Roof storage amzn.to/3qihd8E
BATHROOM
Eco-Friendly Compost for the toilet amzn.to/3pj4nqt
Retractable Clothesline amzn.to/3a40oZs
The "least smelly" compost toilet for vans amzn.to/3phGv6l
Glass-free mirror (custom sizes!) www.dullesglassandmirror.com/...
DIGITAL NOMAD NECESSARY ITEM
Cell phone signal booster amzn.to/3pgca8k
DECOR/FIXTURES
Foldable Clothing Hooks (so you don't poke your eyes out!) amzn.to/3cbOsGO
SAFETY
FIXD code reader for auto issues amzn.to/3aI1GII
Fire extinguisher amzn.to/2Zgoomc
VLOGGING EQUIPMENT
Photo Clamp Mount amzn.to/3aP9xV5
Main Camer; canon EOS 70D amzn.to/3rDVIzK
DJI Mavic Mini Combo Drone FlyCam amzn.to/3aOpdIe
DJI Osmo Pocket - timelapse amzn.to/3tHc0cF
Joby Tripod amzn.to/3jy33Ol
compact microphone for camera amzn.to/3a1NETl
DJI Osmo Pocket Part 1 Extension Rod amzn.to/3pbQoBN
THANKS FOR WATCHING :)

[@vanhallaadventures]

We finally did our accounting! Here is the cost of our DIY Van build. Did you think it would be more or less? (Check the links in the description to watch the FULL van tour!)

[@ladygreensleeves901]

Love you’re doing this! so many people leave out this crucial information

[@vanhallaadventures]

Agreed! It's so helpful when you are building out a van so you get a realistic view of what is possible.

[@jbgrooves]

Nice build, great cost breakdown too, plus you both seem like people you would welcome to your dinner table. Couple of questions and suggestions: 1. Why did you go with a 7 gallon hot water tank instead of a insta-tank hot water system? 2. Extended warrantee covers what concerning the drive train? 1a. Upgrade the brakes with all that extra weight, it is a must. 2a. Battery monitor panel should be placed on dash. 3a. Outdoor shower / shoe rinse hose is a great thing to have. 4a. Easy remove/hide roof top chairs to enjoy better views and a glass of vino is also a great feature to have. Be kind, enjoy life, laugh and dance every chance you get.

[@johnettew3957]

I saw your van tour for the first time tonight. Like other of the thousands who commented and/or gave thumbs up to the thousands of comments, I too, believe you have excelled in a quality, well designed build. I stopped reading comments when you linked this video of the cost breakdown and came here. Of course I have subscribed and wish you the best on your life's journey. I believe offering your build plans for sale will benefit your coffers. Now I'm looking forward to watching this and reading comments.

[@yamanmourya]

waiting for monthly expenses video!!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

That video is coming soon!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Monthly expense video is coming out today. Like in couple hours!

[@cathietonkin5577]

Thank you! Getting ready to buy my van, a brand new pro master! Sadly I’m a senior so I will be outsourcing my build... while I think I’ve saved a lot of money for my build, I may only be able to do the must haves.... solar power, lithium batteries, shore power, water tank along with shower/wet bath! Storage can be held off as can the bed.... thank you for giving the scoop on what’s really needed. I’m waiting now to hear from a van conversion company with my must haves and my wishes! After a year in quarantine, I need to get back my life!!!! Best wishes and wishing you many happy miles!!!! Bless you both!

[@scottlad1987]

You have done an amazing job, that is the dream right there. Can't wait to watch some of the vids of you enjoying it out on the road.

[@LeahCash]

Thank you so much for sharing! You both did a beautiful job in creating Beatrice : ) Money definitely well invested!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Aw thank you Leah! Beatrice appreciates the compliment as well ;)

[@haniyahsulaym3996]

I’m in love!!! Everything I really wanted to know

[@tomburke1960]

You did a fantastic job! Even though it was a good amount of money, you would not be able to to even touch a Class B of that quality for that money. Plus, it is custom to your taste, and you know it’s built well. Happy Travels!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks, AdVanture Tom (love the name btw!). True! We looked at some RV's recently and were surprised how much more storage ours had plus Beatrice is pretty unique too. Safe and happy travels to you as well!

[@elpar989]

Hello and thank you for such informative videos on both the van build and costs. Your videos are exactly what I needed as I, too, am considering selling everything and setting forth on a solo van life adventure as a traveling grandma. I love everything about your conversion and can only hope that I will be as happy and satisfied with my build and life on the road as are the two of you. Thank you for sharing your hard earned experience! God bless you on your travels!

[@vikkijones9147]

I’ve watched TONS of van videos and yours is one of my favs!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Wow thanks!

[@Gods4Horsemen]

Thank you for the breakdown. Very helpful.

[@tammym110]

You did a great job with this build. It’s the best of any tiny house or can build I’ve ever seen. You have the best of many worlds. Since you are in a van and not an RV you have lots more options where you can go and park. I’ve seen trucks and cars sell for more than this and you have everything you need to live comfortably in. Good job and you should be proud.

[@sidesignfurniturerestoration]

I really liked your post about the look. You definitely have a beautiful vanhouse. This one so informative. Your blood and sweat well spent❕ Looking forward to more. 🕊️

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks for your support and thanks for watching!

[@MuzzyChubChub221]

I love this very informative video. Thank you so much for the breakdown costs. It was so helpful to know how much money you need to do this type of conversion. You are so awesome and inspiring. Go luck and stay safe!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks for watching!

[@ahmedayish1981]

Way cheaper than a house and built from the people's desire and dreams.. Completely feel your energy. Awesome video and build. Love you guys. If you may.. I have one question for now. 1. What do you guys do for a living other than Vlogging.. thats is something I am trying to find out to be ready when I am.finally on the road. Cheers safe travels to you too and Beatrice 😗 ❤

[@vanhallaadventures]

We will be releasing a video about what we do for a living besides vlogging in the coming weeks. Please stay tuned!

[@Hello_Chibi]

I would love to buy Beatrice from you two!! She’s so beautiful 🥺 ♥️ message me when you’re ready to pass her on, if no one has mentioned it yet .

[@alwaysandforever3260]

Thanks for this. Very informative 👏

[@vanhallaadventures]

Glad it was a help :)

[@florinamanole3823]

Bravo for the courage! I appreciate you a lot!♥️👏

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you!

[@Raua12]

Your mouse thingie certainly works, it keeps hurting my ears throughout the video 😂

[@garygrammond9640]

Wow! This is the most information packed video I've seen in a long time. Beautifully done. I'll be doing a build and am pretty confident in my skills except for electric. Do you have background in electrical? Can't believe how many uses you get out of that bed/couch area. Good job!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Gary! We’re glad you enjoyed our video. I was consulted about the electrical system but it was me that installed everything electric. Lots of KZbin research.

[@piplup10203854]

I'm really glad how upfront you are, outside of the cost of the van itself I'm pretty much able to get the conversion under a reasonable price but with the van this is more the cost I was expecting. I'm in process to sell everything I got, it's honestly not much but still got a fair bit to get rid of. I would like to do this but honestly with these cost it gives me a great idea of what I'm looking at. I'm gonna have to go professional build as I'm not able but at least one day I know this could be a possibility :D

[@vanhallaadventures]

We're happy to help :) It was really helpful for us when we were about to build to look at costs breakdown too. There are so many ways to convert and save money too. I will say that the bathroom when having someone else build out for you is usually a BIG expense. We got a quote from someone before we decided to build ourselves and the bathroom alone was $7000. But I think you could do a toilet and less permanent shower area to save a bit as well.

[@piplup10203854]

@@vanhallaadventures That is how I'm gonna approach things with looking for a cost breakdown. 7 thousand! Ouch... that is a lot of money. Yeah I'm gonna with that idea a less permanent shower area that is a lot more than I expected it to be lol I'm glad there are breakdowns though as without it knowing is just impossible.

[@max4296]

you guys are awesome thank you!

[@JessPollom22]

thank you thank you 😊 very helpful peace.love.happiness 🌻♥️

[@barbarellalouisa9673]

I absolutely love love your van I would love to have one just like it That's what I'm looking for

[@chynafelix-spady9440]

thank you so much for this!!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks for watching!

[@peaceandlove544]

Best van I have ever seen

[@kellyvandenbeldt5135]

I would love more info about your windows please. I was rather sad when they were not included in the info above. Where did you purchase them, size, cost ,etc. Thanks for sharing all your info, your build is fabulous and your videos are great!

[@LibertySerenity]

Thank you for sharing! How many feet of living space does your van have from the back of the cab to the back door?

[@janneal9156]

I just so love your van.....cheers from Melbourne...🥂🥂🥂

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! Love the CBD...✌🏻

[@nycrawgirl]

Sorry if you have mentioned this before but did you work on it full time or just on weekends? I'm wondering if it would 9 months was full-time. Thanks so much. I love it!

[@elish1619]

Liked first , gonna watch now.

[@vanhallaadventures]

THANKS ELISH! You rock :)

[@GabbyShah]

Loved this and your tour video! You have the best van conversion I’ve seen! Have you done any modifications to the engine or transmission as far as cooling for the added weight? You also said you got an extended warranty on the van so I’m curious with all the added weight if they said anything about the warranty being voided or having provisions on coverage?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! When we bought the van brand new we got the extra 4 year warranty. As long as the weight of the van did not exceed the limit ( 10k lbs) it’s all good. Our van weighs 9,400lbs with us both inside. No modifications to the engine or cooling. As mentioned in this video, I did add air lifters on the rear suspension and that made a HUGE difference! But yeah as long as you are under 10,0000 pounds (in a Ram ProMaster 3500 159” extended) yer all good....👍🏼 Hope this helps!

[@GabbyShah]

Super helpful! Thank you! 😊

[@basimmaan4549]

It's worth it for the time you want to play around شي جميل وكان عمل ممتع مع من تحب استمتعوا بالوقت الجميل

[@vanhallaadventures]

Agreed!

[@michellemeuleman385]

I’ve been thinking to do same but have no idea how to start. If which order was things done ?

[@janea4777]

You can’t buy a house for 60k ish Great job!

[@vanhallaadventures]

This is true. Thanks...haha

[@carrottop3454]

I think you used the ikea bed support system of which we were considering too after we got a ikea bed for our daughter. Has it worked out ok?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes you are correct! It’s works great!

[@konorrockhill6191]

Beautiful build!! Curious of a few things. Is this the extended version? Have you traveled in tighter cities and how does she do with more compact city driving? Do you stealth camp in cities? If so, what is that like? How is parking in cities if it is extended or even if not? Curious about the overall worries of limitations. Do you enjoy having your vehicle and home in the same space? I'm stuck between van life or smaller camper trailer and being able to have a home base and take more rugged trails with my 4runner and do some other more off road ventures that way but it does cost more in gas and can't really do city camping unless it's in the 4runner which isn't as comfortable as a van.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! It’s the extended version. I’ll get back you tomorrow on all the city details :)

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes we stealth camp in cities. Some are more van friendly than others. I can park the can anywhere and it’s never a concern for me. I’ve been driving these types of vans for over 10years so I’m used to driving in NYC, New Orleans, San Francisco...etc. Makes no difference to me. ✌🏻

[@konorrockhill6191]

What do you like about having a van vs smaller trailer? Did you ever think of a trailer? Curious how the small space living in a van full time is? What's your day to day lifestyle like? I'm really trying to discern the best mode of vehicle for my travels. I originally thought van but then slowly turned into a smaller trailer to post up in blm for a couple weeks and be able to drive my 4runner into more remote areas. But maybe a van can do most of that by itself? Also a trailer is a bit less expensive option etc. Any thoughts in these regards?

[@disneytea5602]

So cool I was just wondering though what kind of van is it?

[@vanhallaadventures]

2019 Ram ProMaster 3500 159” ext

[@saralacombe2692]

Can I get dibs on buying Beatrice when you’re ready to upgrade?

[@moreynolds9870]

Hi both! Great video. I’d say worth every penny (dollar lol). Such a beautiful comfortable home. You said you intended to live in her full time fir 3 years, what are your plans for after that? Hope we’re not going to lose you! Stsy well and stsy safe. Mo, UK XX

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you! We have some ideas after a few years but nothing set in stone. We want to travel with Beatrice all over the world and then possibly build a homestead or build another van and sell Beatrice. We are open to possibility :)

[@moreynolds9870]

Sounds good! Stsy safe x

[@johnettew3957]

$ well spent and utilized in your fabulous build.

[@vanhallaadventures]

thank you!

[@brucemontgomery8136]

i would like to see that adding the # of man hours plz.. i’ve flipped and renovated a lot and know the drill( no pun) and figure you may have 1500 mh in this and even more counting research of different products/ how to videos

[@vanhallaadventures]

That’s a great idea. Are human hours are probably somewhere in the thousands, like you said above. The research alone was a year or so since we had no idea what we’re were doing.

[@mandanagh9424]

Thanks for full info. But how did you anticipate all these Neccessarties which you mentioned you were unexperiened!? If you wanna arrange same for others how much do you sell🤭🤭?!

[@vanhallaadventures]

We researched on KZbin for over a year before we started building. Based on other videos we saw what worked for us and what did not. Currently we ate nothing selling any building plans. But someday I will create some plans to sell on our future website! I hope that answers your question.

[@jenniferf1422]

Beatrice is fashion, darling! I love the kitchen-so stylish. I have random questions. Is it super noisy in there when you guys are on the road? i.e. rattling mason jars, cabinet doors, etc. How much does she weigh? Is all of your clothing packed in zipper totes or is there a secret wardrobe? You guys never looked rumpled which seems like an integral part of living on the road. I'm also curious about monthly expenses...

[@Tom-mb6jl]

2 questions. How much does all upgrades weigh? Could you get this vehicle insured as an RV? Sorry if you have already answered this previously.

[@vanhallaadventures]

This van has been classified as RV per our insurance company. Before the conversion the weighed 5,600lbs with 2 people inside. After the conversion the weight increased to 9,400lbs. This includes the conversion plus all the contents/supplies and full tank of gas and water.

[@JRR0013]

How much is your monthly vehicle insurance? Does coverage include upgraded contents? Beautiful van, just gorgeous!!!!

[@vanhallaadventures]

Great question! Our insurance is $120 - this is our RV insurance that covers the full cost of the build but does not include cost of labor. We have a full spreadsheet with receipts that the insurance company said would suffice if anything happened. We also have a renters insurance policy for another $30 a month that covers all personal items and other small items in the vehicle.

[@JRR0013]

@@vanhallaadventures Thanks!

[@thenoworriesnomad]

The kitchen worktop...you say it has a "live" edge, what is a live edge, we may call it something else here in the UK so forgive my ignorance...And as usual guys, another great video

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thanks Mark :) The Live Edge is the outer edge of the slab, we didn't cut it into a rectangle. We wanted to keep the personality of the outer portion which has curvature. Does that make sense? I'm curious what they call it in the UK.

[@thenoworriesnomad]

@@vanhallaadventures Hey, yes it does and as far as I’m aware it’s just called an edge over here..👍🏻👍🏻

[@newzealand_thamilan]

Great Breakup of costs involved in building the van conversion

[@vanhallaadventures]

thanks for watching :)

[@gnviev]

If you where decided to sell your van, how much do you think you can have ? Visit the price you paid . Thank you very much . Very beautiful van

[@ladygreensleeves901]

Love your makeup vanity 🥰

[@vanhallaadventures]

Thank you :) It was one of the first things I wrote down on my NEEDS list when we started designing.

[@piplup10203854]

so quick question do you suggest getting a van first then saving for a conversion or doing it all at once. There is no question I'll have to finance it I'm just not sure whether it would be better to finance the van first pay it off for a bit or fully and then finance a conversion or seek out an all in one company that does a build plus the van and finance that. I'm guessing you're not finance experts lol but I'm just curious as to which you think would be better if it's gonna be a full time living. I currently am in a carehome so I don't have a place like no apartment or home etc

[@vanhallaadventures]

I think it really depends on your circumstance. We are paying for the van now and we were during the build. We factored that in when we budgeted. Most van companies will not finance the van, you generally have to purchase it yourself first then hand it over for the conversion. Only some companies will let you finance the build. The ones we spoke with said that they could take a 50% downpayment then pay the rest 30 days before finishing. I think it's worth doing whatever works for you and your budget :)

[@piplup10203854]

@@vanhallaadventures Ah, I see. That makes sense though. I was looking into a builder who is taking a deposit but it's not stated how much yet and if that would be with or without a van included. I see. I think that route of van first then build will probably be the best for me. I can get the van now but not the build but I'm not in a hurry for either. I'm gonna have to save more cause a 50% downpayment is quite a bit. My van build would cost about the same here as yours did it won't be a budget van lol

[@nicolecrenshaw8229]

What is in the frame above the kitchen?

[@vanhallaadventures]

It’s a poem written by a friend that was given to us on our wedding day.

[@MsFlor81]

Does it have an air conditioner and heater?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes we have a heater but no AC. It takes a huge amount of battery and solar power to operate an AC unit on a regular basis in hot weather.

[@ramijrajamondal4297]

indian Rupees 5,263,170.292. But here we can get nearly 30lakh RS, i guess, chipper 😅

[@nagendragpu]

By American standard thats fine. A good van usually cost around 30-40lakhs compare it with 🏠 it's much cheaper for them.

[@ramijrajamondal4297]

@@nagendragpu yes bro, usually simple force traveller 26seater around 25lakh base model. Can you tell me about toilet system, tank full in howmany days? Where to dump wastes?

[@nagendragpu]

@@ramijrajamondal4297 in US many ppl usually install black tanks underneath the van.. after use they dump it in designated dump stations.... Other use composting toilet ( check youtube) ...In india we don't have these facilities very few RV camp sites are available across India and they charge per day very high

[@ramijrajamondal4297]

@@nagendragpu ye bro i already watched, As indian need about information only in india purpose 😅 Bio toilet like railway system is one solution.

[@Jaszmin85]

Did your changes to the van affect the warranty?

[@vanhallaadventures]

No. We wondered about that too but we didn't change anything to the engine - just the inside so we were all good. We did however get RV insurance rather than regular car insurance as it covers all build materials (not labor).

[@tuana2773]

How do you wash your clothes?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Laundromat.

[@jodylairdmanning7237]

Does your van run on diesel?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Unleaded Gasoline

[@rebar-king]

Have you been on the scales? What’s the weight?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes, we weigh about 9400lbs with both of us in it. The garage has quite a bit of weight back there which we'll be shifting soon-ish. I have a couple of tubs of herbs and other apothecary items that add a good 100lbs at least.

[@steadmanuhlich6734]

@@vanhallaadventures Thanks for sharing the weight info. I love your build (features, interior design, your styling). Well done!

[@Fdt172]

Did I miss what kind of van this is?

[@cathietonkin5577]

Holy Moley!!!!!! I 💩🙊💩 out of luck!!!! 😥😥😥😥

[@ladygreensleeves901]

How did you get her name?

[@vanhallaadventures]

It is Brian's Grandmother's name. She has crossed over though now we get to have her with us, in a way, while we travel.

[@wildlifeadventuregirl]

What was the total cost

[@vanhallaadventures]

11:38 goes over everything :)

[@vanhallaadventures]

Though now the price would be a decent amount more due to inflation since we built this van.

[@mranhad8513]

Cost ven

[@brentnevius2849]

All you need to complete your home is a few cats.

[@vanhallaadventures]

Agree to disagree....🤣

[@rinihaque2946]

Can you sell it to me?

[@vanhallaadventures]

Sure how much ya got? JK 🤪

[@janneal9156]

Did you have to be mindful of the weight...

[@vanhallaadventures]

Yes always be mindful of your weight when van building. Particularly making sure the weight is evenly dispersed throughout the van. 👍🏼

[@ladygreensleeves901]

Still way cheaper than a house!

[@vanhallaadventures]

FOR. REAL.!