I carried out a relatively straightforward conversion on a good quality base van. I documented the process with lots of photos, happy to share so you can see what’s behind the panels.

Key features of the conversion include:
Attractive and spacious U-shaped seating area which converts to large bed. I’ve squeezed up to 7 people around the table but 4/5 is comfortable.
Dometic Waeco CRX50 fridge/freezer: low energy usage. Can run for several days without charging.
Leisure battery that charges while driving or when connected to shore power. Option to add solar in the future (battery manager and connectors in place). The battery charges the fridge/freezer and connects to a panel which can charge usb or other 12v devices (including my laptop, with appropriate adapter). There is also 240v sockets which work when the system is hooked up to electrics.
Simple and stylish sink that drains to a waste water bottle below. I use this with a Berkey water filter tower, which is easier to manage than built in water system and the water tastes better.
Plenty of storage including slide out draw section on one side.
Blackout curtains. For a good night’s sleep.
While not exactly part of the conversion, the fact that the van is long wheelbase makes it much more spacious than short wheelbase transporters and gives you a bigger bed. Parking isn’t an issue – the parking sensors work well and it still gets into regular carpark spaces when you need to (e.g. at service stations) with a small overhang. It’s basically the biggest small van option before you go for something like a Sprinter which means you can no longer act more or less like its a car.

At the moment the van does not have:
– Built in cooker. I use a portable gas stove or an amazing folding bbq/firepit from primus (can discuss including). In wet weather I just use the portable stove inside but whenever possible I prefer to cook outside anyway and so preferred to have more counter space.
– Diesel heater. Can be added fairly easily if this is something you’d like to have. We find a good duvet / sleeping bag and the van’s insulation does the trick for cold season trips.
– Pop top. I’ve left space in the roof insulation to allow easy conversion to the pop top if desired at some point. Because all the furniture is low it’s easy for converters. Happy to recommend converters if useful.

I do love this van. I converted it just last year for two reasons:
1. To go out more outdoors / climbing trips with friends
2. To get my partner into camping
The first of these was successful, the second less so. Therefore I’m sadly trading in the van for a car + tent for friends trips or airbnb for partner trips.