I've bought a brand new L3H3 Citroen Relay for myself. It should arrive any day now, so I've been trying to plan everything before it arrives! One of the things I've spent a lot of time on is design. The more planning you do up front, the easier it gets down the line. Here is my current mood-board / design doc so far; (I describe my design process at the bottom of this post) Here was my process: 🔎 Step 1: Collecting Inspiration The first phase was simply soaking in inspiration. I trawled the internet for days looking through every van interior I could find. The key sources that helped me most were: • Van conversion websites – There are plenty of great websites with inspiration, beyond TheVanConversion.com ;) • Pinterest – great for aesthetics and general vibes. • YouTube van tours – particularly for spatial layouts and clever hidden features. • Instagram – to get a feel for how people are styling things now. • Quirky Campers & Outdoorsy – these were incredibly helpful. Both sites let you scroll through dozens (or hundreds) of real-world campervan conversions, which was gold for design research. As I browsed, I screenshotted every little feature that caught my eye: • curved cabinetry • slatted wall ornamentation • clever pull-out table designs • texture combos (wood + limewash + stone) • soft lighting ideas • boho detailing • arch motifs and shutter shapes • drawer arrangements • colour palettes and ceiling textures Each screenshot went into a big Word doc alongside a quick note or description explaining why I liked that detail. Alongside design inspiration, I also noted functional design features, for example: where the water tanks will go, whether I wanted flares or not, which water system I would use, etc. I started to play around with different layout plans which I sketched on paper - this is the one I've gone for (very basic sketch): 🧠 Step 2: Spotting Themes & Refining Style After immersing myself in examples, I started noticing recurring motifs that really resonated with me. I naturally leaned toward: • earthy, natural materials (wood, stone, rotin, plaster) • curved or arched forms (no hard corners!) • soft, ambient lighting with built-in glows • subtle bohemian touches—pressed flowers, soft linens, textured fabrics • stone sinks and warm tones • limewash-style walls and a slatted wood ceiling At this point, it wasn’t just about finding ideas—I was starting to refine a coherent design language. The aesthetic became grounded, warm, natural, and minimal with handcrafted soul. I could finally answer the question: “What does my van feel like?” I put together a colour document to use going forward: 1. Main Wall Colour – Limewash Beige • Hex: #d8cab6 • Name: French Clay / Raw Linen • Description: A warm, natural beige with soft chalky tones—ideal for limewash or mineral-based paints like Bauwerk’s Raw White or Mushroom. • Use for: Walls, arch cut-outs, shutters 2. Primary Accent – Terracotta • Hex: #ac6d3c • Name: Burnt Terracotta • Description: A rich, sun-baked red-brown. Warm and grounding. • Use for: Drawer fronts, arch inlets, tiles, faucet or metalware accents 3. Secondary Accent – Dusty Olive • Hex: b3a17e • Name: Pressed Sage / Dusty Olive • Description: Muted olive with grey undertones, reminiscent of dried eucalyptus or vintage pressed plants. • Use for: Floral motifs on shutters, drawer pulls, mini planters 4. Natural Wood • Hex: #A67C52 • Name: Honey Oak / Light Walnut • Description: A warm mid-tone natural wood, satin or oiled finish. • Use for: Slats, cabinetry, shutter frames, shelving, overhead locker fronts 5. Rotin / Cane • Hex: #E5C99C • Name: Bleached Woven Rattan • Description: Light woven fiber tone, slightly golden • Use for: Overhead locker panels, cabinet inserts 6. Soft White (Textiles & Linen) • Hex: #F5F2ED • Name: Off-White Linen • Description: A very soft white with beige undertones—not stark, not cold • Use for: Bedding, cushions, curtains 🤖 Step 3: Using AI for Visualization This was a game-changer. I started using ChatGPT’s DALL·E image generation tool, which has come so far since I first tested it a couple of years ago. I prompted the tool to generate specific design elements I was considering. For example: • “Natural wood overhead cabinets with rotin inserts and leather strap handles” • “A slatted wooden ceiling with integrated LED backlighting in a campervan” • “Earthy boho van interior with terracotta accents and a stone sink” • “A campervan bed with arch-shaped wooden flare cutouts and limewash walls” • “Corner sink area with stone bowl, wooden slats, and wall-mounted faucet” This helped me visualize things that didn’t exist yet, which really pushed the design forward. It let me quickly test ideas and combine elements I’d seen in different places into a unified look. I’d often go back and forth with ChatGPT, iterating on small tweaks until it looked right—like adjusting curve radius, changing lighting direction, or matching wood tones more closely. 🖼 Step 4: Assembling the Moodboard After a ton of back-and-forth and visual exploration, I pulled everything together into a single comprehensive moodboard (see attachment). The final board includes: • My chosen color palette: Limewash beige, dusty olive, natural wood, terracotta, rotin, and stone • Key material textures (slats, limewash, plaster, cane, rough stone) • Core architectural features: arched niches, rotin cabinets, slatted ceiling with LED lighting, curved flare cutouts, ornamental slats, stone sink corner, etc. • Decorative elements: subtle boho details like macramé, pressed flowers, olive motifs • Functional highlights: pull-out table, clever kitchen drawers, slatted bed divider, curtain layout It’s not just aesthetic—it’s a working blueprint for materials, proportions, lighting, and layout. 🛠 What I Learned • Inspiration is everywhere, but it’s only valuable if you actively track what you love and why. • Tools like DALL·E in ChatGPT help bridge the gap between scattered inspiration and a coherent visual concept. • Choosing a restricted colour + material palette early helps avoid over-designing. • Getting nerdy with small details—cabinet handles, the shape of a bed cutout, how light falls on a slat—adds soul. If anyone’s stuck on figuring out their van style, I can’t recommend this process enough. Screenshot everything. Annotate it. Then start building your own world using tools like ChatGPT to refine and visualize.

Hey there, and welcome to The Van Conversion Club – our friendly community forum for DIY van builders around the world. Whether you’re still shopping for your first van or you’re halfway through cladding the ceiling in 30°C heat, you’re in the right place. 🛠️ What is this forum? This forum is part of TheVanConversion.com – a site packed with guides, tools, and courses for people who want to convert their own campervan from scratch. But the forum is where we come together: To share builds, ask questions, swap ideas, and support each other through the highs and lows of DIY vanlife. 👋 Who’s it for? This forum is for DIY van builders – no matter your experience level. You might be: • Sketching out your first layout • Deep in the middle of carpentry or electrics • Living full-time in your van • Or just van-curious and looking for inspiration If you're building (or dreaming of building) your own camper, you belong here. 🚀 How to get started Here’s what we suggest for your first few steps: 1. Introduce yourself! Post in this General section and tell us who you are, where you're at in your build, and what kind of van you have. Bonus points for photos. 2. Ask a question Pick the most relevant category (e.g., Electrics, Planning & Design) and fire away. 3. Help someone else If you see a post you can answer – even a little – jump in and reply. This is how we all learn. 📜 Community Guidelines We’re all here to help each other out and build cool stuff – so let’s keep things kind: 👉 Be respectful; No put-downs, no judgement – we were all beginners once. 👉 No spam or self-promotion; This isn’t a place to pitch your service or drop links irrelevant content 👉 Ask in the right category; You’ll get better answers – and help keep the place organised. 👉 Help others where you can; One good answer can save someone hours of stress. 📸 Let’s kick things off Introduce yourself below 👇Tell us what you're building, what you're stuck on, and what you’re most excited about.And don’t be shy – show us your van! This space is yours. Welcome aboard 🚐💨

This is the place to ask questions, share your metalwork upgrades, and get help with installing windows, fans, ladders, roof racks, flares, and anything that involves cutting a hole in your van (gulp). Whether you're planning a stealthy build or a rugged off-grid rig, this thread links to our best resources and tools to help you make clean, safe, and weatherproof modifications to the outside of your van. Helpful guides to get started: • Roof vent installation • Window fittings • Rust removal • LPG inlet • Water inlet • Solar cable entry gland • Mains hook up • Bulkhead removal • Van Ladder • Spare wheel carrier • Swivel seats • Awnings • Camper roof sealing • Exterior modifications Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • Metalwork Masterclass • The Mastery Course

This is the place to talk about life on the road – from wild camping and finding showers, to managing work, money, loneliness, and the best spots you’ve discovered. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or living full-time in your van, this thread links to our best lifestyle content, practical guides, and community stories to help you thrive on the road. Helpful guides to get started: • How to live and travel in a van full-time • Campervan rental • Campervan & RV parking • Campervan security Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • The Mastery Course

This is the place to discuss all things official — insurance, DVLA registration, vehicle classification, MOTs, import/export, V5C updates, and anything else that involves paperwork, policies, or government websites. Whether you're trying to register your van as a camper, insure your conversion, or figure out how your build affects road legality, this thread links to our best guides and resources to help you get it right the first time. Helpful guides to get started: • Insurance • Van for conversion • Planning & design • Converting a van in Ireland Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • The Mastery Course

This is the place to ask questions, share your build photos, and get help with insulation materials, methods, moisture control, vapour barriers, and everything in between. Whether you're aiming for a cosy winter cabin or just trying to avoid summer sweat puddles, you're in the right place. This thread links to our best guides and tools to help you insulate smartly, safely, and efficiently. Helpful guides to get started: • Insulation Ultimate Guide • Sound deadening • Winterisation Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • Insulation Masterclass • The Mastery Course Most Common Questions in This Category What’s the best insulation for a van? PIR foam board (like Celotex or Kingspan) is the most efficient and commonly used. Sheep’s wool is eco-friendly and moisture regulating. Should I insulate the floor? Yes – PIR under the ply floor is standard. It prevents heat loss and cold feet in winter. How thick should my insulation be? 25mm is typical, use up to 50mm if space allows. Can I mix insulation types? Yes – many people use PIR board for large flat areas and wool for awkward gaps. Do I need a vapour barrier? Depends on your insulation type (whether it is moisture regulating already). Optional with natural materials like wool. How do I stop condensation in the van? Good insulation, proper ventilation (roof fan), and attention to thermal bridging. Keep the van interior warm. What’s thermal bridging and why should I care? It’s where heat escapes through uninsulated metal (e.g. ribs). Always insulate over and around metal to avoid cold spots and condensation. Can I use spray foam insulation? It’s an option but harder to DIY as you need a lot. It has also been known to cause problems like panel warping. Closed-cell is better than open-cell. Is sheep’s wool a good option? Yes – it’s breathable, sustainable, and regulates moisture. But it needs airflow and can retain smell if it gets wet. Can I just use Reflectix? Only as a radiant barrier – never use Reflectix on its own. It needs an air gap to work properly. Do I need to insulate window panels? Yes – use insulated window covers or custom-fit blackout thermal panels. Should I insulate inside the doors? Yes – especially the rear doors. Use wool for flexibility. Do I need to soundproof as well? Optional, but adding sound deadening mats (e.g. Silent Coat or Dodo) helps reduce road noise. Is insulation flammable? Some foam boards are. Always check fire ratings and avoid cheap no-name boards. How long does it take to insulate a van? Most people spend the best part of a week on insulation.

This is the place to ask questions, share your setup, and get help with everything from gas hobs and heaters to LPG bottles, regulators, safety tips, and legal compliance. Whether you’re building a simple camping hob setup or a fully plumbed system with a heater and boiler, you’re in the right place. This thread links to our best guides and tools to help you install gas safely and confidently. Helpful guides to get started: • Diesel heaters • LPG heaters • LPG ultimate guide • Hob installation • LPG ovens • Woodburning stoves Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • Gas Systems Masterclass • The Mastery Course Most Common Questions in This Category Do I need LPG in my van? Only if you're using a gas hob, boiler, or heater. Some people go 100% electric (induction), but gas is more energy-efficient for cooking and heating. Is gas safe in a campervan? Yes – if installed properly with drop-out vents, isolation valves, and tight connections. Use leak detection spray and get your system checked if unsure. Can I install gas myself? You can, but in the UK (and many other countries), a certified professional is legally required to sign it off for insurance and roadworthiness. What regulator do I need? Depends on your gas type (butane/propane) and cylinder. Most use a 30mbar fixed regulator with a gas isolator valve. What pipework should I use? Use copper or certified flexible hose for fixed installations. Avoid rubber hose for long-term setups. Do I need a drop-out vent? Yes – gas is heavier than air. If there’s a leak, it must be able to escape through a floor-level vent near the cylinder. Where should I store my gas bottle? In a sealed gas locker, bolted down, with a drop-out vent and no other electrics in the same space. How do I detect gas leaks? Spray joints with leak detector or soapy water and watch for bubbles. You can also install a gas alarm for extra safety. What’s the best heating option for a campervan? Diesel heaters are the most popular. They're powerful, efficient, and don’t need big batteries like electric heaters. Are LPG heaters any good? Yes – Truma & propex units are popular. But they require careful installation. Can I use a portable gas heater? Not recommended – they produce moisture and carbon monoxide. Use fixed, vented heaters wherever possible. Do I need a gas certificate? In the UK: Yes, for DVLA classification (VASP) and insurance. Other countries vary – always check local laws. Can I cook with a camping stove inside the van? Yes – but ventilate well and never leave it unattended. Use a CO monitor for extra safety. How long does a gas bottle last? Depends on usage. A 6kg propane bottle typically lasts 4 weeks for cooking only. Can I use gas for hot water?Yes – you can install a gas boiler like the Truma Combi or Whale water heater for hot water on demand. What size LPG bottle should I get? 6kg is standard and fits most lockers. 11kg is the larger size, and nicer to have. Bigger bottles last longer but take up more space. What’s the alternative to gas? Go fully electric with an induction hob and diesel heater – but you’ll need a large battery bank + solar. Is diesel heating better than gas heating? For most people, yes. Diesel is easy to source, efficient, and integrates well with your fuel tank.

This is the place to ask questions, share your setup, and get help with everything from sinks and showers to tanks, pumps, and filtration systems. Whether you’re planning a simple jerry can setup or a full indoor shower and hot water system, you're in the right place. This thread links to our best guides, calculators, and products to help you build a safe, reliable, and leak-free water system. Helpful guides to get started: • Ultimate Guide to Van Water Systems • Van Showers • Toilets • Water filters • Washers and dryers Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • Water Systems Masterclass • The Mastery Course Most Common Questions in This Category How much water storage do I need? Most people carry 50–100L for fresh water. Depends on your usage (showers? dishwashing?) and refill frequency. Should I install water tanks inside or outside the van? Inside = protected from freezing. Underslung = saves space. How do I stop my water freezing in winter? Insulate pipes/tanks, use internal tanks where possible, and drain system before hard frost. What kind of water pump should I use? 12V diaphragm pumps (e.g. Shurflo) are the most popular. Submersible pumps are great for simplicity and low power. Do I need an accumulator tank? Recommended with 12V pumps – it reduces cycling and improves pressure consistency. Can I drink water from my tanks? Yes – but install a proper filter (if living somewhere where drinking water is questionable). Carbon filters or UV systems work best for full-timers. How do I fill the water tanks easily? Use a fill port on the outside of the van or a quick-connect hose setup. Always carry a collapsible hose. Where does the wastewater go? Grey water goes into a separate tank. You can use a portable container or install an underslung tank. Some people install a y-valve to optionally drain water directly outside the van. Do I need a hot water system? Only if you want hot showers or washing up. Options include LPG boilers, 12V immersion heaters, or heat exchangers. Can I install a shower in a small van? Yes – consider outdoor showers, flexible hoses, or collapsible indoor cubicles. What plumbing fittings should I use? John Guest push-fit fittings are reliable and easy to use. How do I secure the water tanks in place? Use steel brackets or heavy-duty ratchet straps. Ensure they’re mounted low and evenly supported. Can I use a garden hose for plumbing? No. Use food-safe pipes for anything going to your drinking supply. Should I bother with a water level gauge? Nice to have, not essential.

This is the place to ask questions, share your build process, and get help with every part of your van’s carpentry – from framing and cladding to beds, kitchens, and clever storage. Whether you’re building from scratch or fitting out pre-made furniture, you’re in the right place. This thread links to our best resources and tools to help you build smart, functional, and beautiful interiors. Helpful guides to get started: • Ultimate guide to carpentry • Cladding & panelling • Campervan beds • Table ideas • Storage ideas • Overhead cupboards • Bulkhead storage • Wardrobe • Kitchen unit Helpful tools to get started: • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • Carpentry Masterclass • The Mastery Course • Vanspace 3D – 3D CAD for visual layout planning Most Common Questions in This Category What kind of wood should I use in a van? Lightweight ply (birch, poplar, or marine) is most common. Avoid MDF – it swells and adds weight. Do I need battens behind my walls? Yes – battens give structure, hold insulation in place, and make mounting furniture easier. Fixed bed or pull-out bed? Fixed = more storage and simplicity. Pull-out = more living space. Depends on your priorities. How do I make a table that stores away? Use a Lagun leg, folding bracket, or removable pedestal. Keep leg swing and seating clearance in mind. What flooring is best in a van? Vinyl plank or heavy-duty lino – durable, waterproof, and easy to clean. How do I stop my cabinets from rattling? Soft-close latches, felt pads, and tight hinges. Keep weight low and secure everything to ribs/battens. How thick should my plywood be? 10mm is fine in most cases. Do I need to seal or paint the wood? Yes – use primer and varnish or paint to protect against moisture and warping. Can I use reclaimed wood or pallet wood? Yes – but check for warping, rot, and treat it. It’s heavier and less predictable than ply. How do I get nice straight cuts? Use a guide rail or clamped straight edge with your circular saw. For big sheets, use a chalk line. Fixed bed or pull-out bed? Fixed is simpler and better for storage. Pull-out is great for space-saving and aesthetic layouts. How do I cut curves and awkward shapes?Use a jigsaw and a scribe tool to trace uneven surfaces like van walls or wheel arches. What’s the best joint for campervan furniture?Butt joints with glue and screws for beginners. Pocket holes or dado & rabbet for better finish. How do I prevent furniture from rattling or falling apart while driving?Use strong catches, secure frames to the van chassis, and reinforce joints with brackets or glue. What catches should I use? Push-lock, magnetic, or roller catches all work well. Every door and drawer needs one. Should I sand everything? Yes! 80 > 120 > 220 grit. Round all edges and avoid sharp corners for safety. How do I finish or paint my furniture? Use Danish oil, varnish, or polyurethane. Prime before painting. How can I make drawers that stay closed? Use drawer slides with a built-in catch or add push-lock mechanisms. Do I need a woodworking bench? Yes – even a cheap sawhorse and flat board setup will make your cuts cleaner and safer. What’s the best way to sketch furniture plans? Use pencil & paper with scaled drawings, or CAD software like Vanspace3D or SketchUp.

This is the place to ask questions, share your setup, and get help with every part of your van’s electrical system – from batteries and wiring to solar and inverters. Whether you're building your first 12V setup or sizing a full off-grid system, you're in the right place. This thread links to our best resources and tools to help you build safe, reliable, and future-proof electrics. Helpful guides to get started: Campervan wiring diagram explained Campervan electrics explained Electrical regulations Leisure batteries Inverters Split charging Shore power Solar systems Wiring guide Fusing Switch panels Lighting Fridges Air conditioning Portable power stations Helpful calculators to get started: Solar Panel Sizing Calculator Battery Bank Calculator Inverter Calculator MPPT Charge Controller Calculator Wire Size Calculator B2B Smart Charger Calculator Daily Energy Use Calculator Battery Charge Time Calculator Helpful courses & resources to get started: Electrics Masterclass -Step-by-step video course for designing and installing your full system. Van Conversion Mastery Course - The full start-to-finish course – includes electrics, plumbing, insulation, and more. Roaming Home Book - A complete written guide covering every step of the van build process. Most Common Questions in This Category What size solar panel do I need? Use our solar calculator to size your system based on daily energy use. Which type of battery is best? Lithium (LiFePO4) for performance and lifespan. AGM if you're on a tighter budget. How many amp-hours do I need? Most full-time vanlifers use 200–300Ah. Part-timers often get by with 100Ah. Do I need a B2B charger if I have solar? Yes – solar can be inconsistent. B2B keeps your batteries topped up when driving. Can I charge my leisure battery while driving? Yes – with a B2B (smart) charger or a split charge relay (if your alternator isn’t smart). How long will my battery last off-grid? Depends on usage and charging input. Use the battery charge time calculator. Should I get a 12V or 230V fridge? 12V fridges are much more efficient – especially for off-grid use. Do I need an inverter? Only if you’re running AC appliances like laptops, blenders, or power tools. How big should my inverter be? Depends on what you’ll run at the same time. Use the inverter calculator. What happens if I oversize my inverter? It’ll use more power at idle. Go only as big as you need. Can I wire everything myself? Yes – with the right guidance (like the Masterclass) and safety precautions. How do I know if my alternator is smart? If your van is Euro 5+/6 or newer than ~2015, you probably have a smart alternator. Use a B2B charger. Do I need fuses on every wire? Yes – fuse every positive wire near the power source. It’s essential for safety. Can I mix battery types or brands? No – always match batteries by type, age, capacity, and brand. Can I put my electrics under the bed? Yes – as long as it’s well-ventilated, accessible, and protected from moisture. How can I tell if I’ve got voltage drop?If your lights dim or fridge underperforms, check cable runs and sizing. Should I run AC or stick with 12V? Stick with 12V wherever possible – it’s more efficient and simpler to wire. Can I run an induction hob in a van?Only with a serious system: 2000W+ inverter, 300–400Ah lithium, big solar + B2B.

Welcome to the Planning & Design section of The Van Conversion Club – this is the place to ask questions, share your ideas, and get feedback on your van build layout, van selection, workspace setup, and more. Whether you’re still choosing your base van or knee-deep in 3D layouts, you’re in the right place. This thread will guide you through everything you need to know – and link you to the best tools and resources we’ve created to help you plan smarter. Helpful guides to get started: • Best Vans for Conversion • Planning & Design Guide • Insurance Ultimate Guide • Our carpentry guides contain layout plans for most key furniture Helpful tools to get started: • The Van Conversion Dashboard • Roaming Home - The Van Conversion Book • The Mastery Course • Vanspace 3D – 3D CAD for visual layout planning Most Common Questions in This Category What’s the best van for a DIY conversion? Sprinter, Transit, and Ducato/Boxer/Relay (Ram Promaster in North America) are the top choices. Results of our 2023 Roaming Home study What’s an acceptable number of kilometres on a used van? Under 100,000 km is ideal. Try and get a van with <17,000km per year on the dash. Data from a European Commission report indicates that the expected lifetime mileage for a commercial van is 224,000 km. The average age of retirement for a commercial van is 13 years. In our 2023 study, we found that most people purchase an 8 year old van to convert. How much does a van conversion cost? In our 2023 study, we found that most people spend €9000 on the base vehicle (likely slightly higher now). According to the same study, the average (mean) cost to convert the van was €8500. Most conversions cost between €4,000 and €10,000. Should I go LWB, MWB, or SWB? If you are planning to live comfortably in the van for extended periods of time, a long wheelbase, high roof van is needed. If you are doing less time, a medium wheelbase will work. SWB is stealthy and very easy to park. Can I sleep widthways in my van? Only in vans with 1850mm+ interior width (e.g. Ducato/Boxer). Most others = lengthways only. Unless you install flares. We have a guide to van beds here. Fixed bed or convertible bed? Fixed = more comfort and storage. Convertible = more daytime space and feels more airy. A fixed bed is more functional, a convertible bed looks more aesthetic. How do I test a layout before committing? Use Vanspace 3D or tape it out inside your van and mock it up with cardboard. What layout is best for remote working? Swivel seat + fold-out desk or bench/table combo. Natural light is key for long workdays. Do I need a shower in my van? Only if you really really want it. Showers take up lots of space and water. You are normally never far from a gym or cowork. How should I plan for different seasons? Cold = strong insulation, heater, indoor kitchen. Hot = multiple roof fans and airflow. What’s a good layout for travelling as a couple? Double bed (fixed or fold-out), extra storage, space to move comfortably. Do I need a wardrobe? Depends on your clothing habits. Most vanlifers get by with a few shelves and packing cubes. How do I plan storage for outdoor gear? Garage under the bed, large drawers, or rooftop / backdoor box. Should I include a toilet? If you have IBS or travel remotely, yes. Chemical or composting toilets are common options. What’s the best fridge for a van?50–80L fridges are most common. Consider your cooking style, power system, and available space. How can I make the van feel bright and cheerful?Add windows, white/light colours, skylights, and plenty of lighting. Mood matters in small spaces. What’s the best way to read on the road?Get a Kindle. Saves space, holds tons of books, and doesn’t need shelf storage. What flooring is best in a van? Vinyl plank or heavy-duty lino – waterproof, durable, and easy to clean. How should I insulate the floor and ceiling? Use foam board under the floor. Don’t forget the ceiling – heat rises! How do I manage weight balance and payload?Don’t overload one side. Track your van’s payload and avoid going over the legal limit. Can I fit everything into a small van?Yes, but you’ll need to compromise – consider removable modules and multi-use furniture. What’s the best way to plan around electrics and plumbing?Start early – decide where everything lives before building furniture around it. How long should I expect the planning phase to take?A few weeks of research and sketching will save you months of regret later.