15 Epic Hacks, Tips and Tricks for Van Life, SUV and Car Camping
Today I’m super excited to share my 15 favorite hacks, tips, and tricks from my minivan camper build. Whether you’re living the van life, traveling in a camper, SUV, or even a car, these ideas are practical, budget-friendly, and will make your journey smoother. From bug screens and privacy solutions to clever storage ideas and DIY furniture, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive in!
Links to products, devices and gear featured in this video
The Genius of Multi-Purpose Design
1. Bug-Free Ventilation on a Budget
Say goodbye to pesky bugs! For just $3, you can grab gutter guards from any hardware store. These fit easily over side windows to allow fresh air in while keeping insects out. Alternatively, try magnetic bug screens—great for sliding doors too!
2. Rain-Proof Window Deflectors
Window deflectors are game-changers for keeping rain out while your windows are cracked open. Bonus: magnetic bug screens snap right over these deflectors for a dual-function solution.
3. DIY Privacy/Shower Tent
With tent poles, shower curtain liners, and tiny eyebolts, you can create a budget-friendly privacy tent. It’s perfect for a shower, changing room, or even a portable toilet. Bonus: it doubles as a clothesline for drying wet clothes!
4. Flexible Mount Boards
Cut a small piece of 1/4" birch plywood and wedge it into your seat grab handle to create a secure mounting spot for lights, electronics, or small gadgets. The best part? It’s removable, making it easy to work on your setup whenever needed.
5. Go All-In on 12V Appliances
Your vehicle runs on 12V DC power, so using 12V devices is more efficient than converting to AC. You can even modify some AC devices to run on DC with a little wiring.
6. Step-Up and Step-Down Converters
Use step-UP and step-DOWN converters to power AC devices using 12 volts. It’s an easy way to maximize your build’s power system.
7. Smart Wiring Tools
Make your wiring projects easier with a smart wire stripper—it adjusts automatically for different wire gauges. Pair it with wire lever nuts for quick, secure connections every time.
8. Ventilated Bed Platforms
Drill holes in your bed platform with a hole saw for better ventilation and to reduce weight. The airflow (and weight savings) is worth it.
9. Locking Drawer Slides for Convertible Beds
For a seamless bench-to-bed transformation, install locking drawer slides. These heavy-duty slides hold up to 500 pounds and eliminate the need for bulky support rails, saving precious floor space.
10. Comfortable Folding Sofa Bed Design
Make the seat board on your folding sofa bed 20% wider than the other panels to improve comfort, especially if you have long legs. Bonus tip: use a thinner cushion for the backrest to make sitting upright more ergonomic.
11. Durable Cushion Covers
Cover your cushions with Sunbrella fabric, which is UV- and water-resistant. It’s perfect for handling spills, stains, and general wear and tear.
12. Cable Ties for Everything
Cable ties are lifesavers. Use them to connect storage baskets, secure vertical storage, and even keep phone chargers in place. They’re cheap, versatile, and reliable.
13. Bike Bottle Cages
Bike bottle cages are great for holding anything round—cups, utensils, or even a small fire extinguisher. Add tape for a snug fit if needed.
14. DIY Storage Shelf
Make a removable shelf that sits on top of your front seats and steering wheel. Use pre-cut project boards and attach 2x2 legs for stability. It’s perfect for storing cooking gear or other essentials.
15. Magic Table Legs
Turn your storage shelf into a table using Quick Connect rails and a monopod with quick-release levers. It’s compact, adjustable, and transforms in minutes.
These hacks have been invaluable in my minivan camper build and I hope they inspire you to create your dream setup. Have a favorite hack of your own? Share it in the YouTube video comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!
Until next time, happy travels!