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DIY Campervan Build
We have a 2023 AWD 170WB Mercedes Sprinter that we are building to be our full-time home. After living on a boat for 2.5 years, we are putting everything we learned into our van build, which was kicked off in June 2024. We aren’t professional van builders, but we have high standards. We are documenting our entire process on YouTube and our website to help you figure out your dream van.
Step 1: Purchasing a Van
The first step to van life is purchasing the van. We weighed the pros and cons of several van options before making our final decision. Read why we chose a Mercedez Sprinter Van.
Step 2: The Layout
What makes the perfect van? The perfect van is the van that meets your unique needs. As an architect and engineer, we share our design process with you so you can make the van of your dreams.
Step 3: Installing Flares
The third step in our van build was installing flares so we could sleep sideways. To optimize our interior space, we installed Flarespace flares, sliding windows, and trim rings on our van.
Step 4: Installing Roof Components
A big part of our van design was to maximize our solar power! We worked with Orion Van Gear on installing a Pre-Fab DIY roof rack with a low-profile fan and 12v AC.
Step 5: Solar Power
The fifth step in our van build was installing 825w of walkable solar to power our home on wheels and allow us to use our roof rack as a deck.
Step 6: Van Windows
Windows are crucial to transforming our camper van into our full-time tiny home. Here is what we learned and how to best install them.
Step 7: Flooring
We went with a simple approach to flooring and chose Lonseal pre-cut flooring as our finished look. We share tips and tricks that we learned throughout the process.
Step 8: Van Insulation
Insulation is what keeps our van temperate, and more like a home instead of a metal can! Here’s our quick start on van insulation.
Our Partners
A big thank you to our partners who are helping us build Pivot II. These brands make incredible products and believe in our mission; we are proud to be associated with them!
Van Build Expenses
How much does it cost to build a van? We are recording our expenses and sharing project-by-project expense reports and the final cost.
Van Build Videos
We’re documenting our van build on YouTube! You can watch our van build in order from our Van Build playlist or start with the first one here.