5 Things I LOVE about my amazing OFF-GRID minivan CAMPER BUILD
Today, I’m sharing five things I absolutely love about my minivan camper build. In my last video, I talked about my regrets, but today, it's all about the love!
Links to products, devices and gear featured in this video
1. My Folding Sofa Bed
One of my favorite features is my folding sofa bed. It’s compact, yet incredibly functional. I used heavy-duty locking drawer slides in the front, allowing it to transition from a bench to a bed in just two seconds. The heavy-duty slides can support up to 500 lbs, and because of this design hack, I don’t need extended support rails that would otherwise eat into my floor space.
I also made sure this design was low enough for me. At 6’1”, I needed a comfortable seating height with enough legroom. My sofa has six-inch thick cushions, and underneath, I have accessible storage space. To maximize comfort, I made my seat board and cushion 20% deeper than the others, which prevents leg discomfort over long sitting periods. Additionally, I created a thinner four-inch seat-back cushion specifically for sitting up. This small modification made a massive difference in comfort!
2. My Folding Countertop
When it’s time to cook, my folding countertop is a game-changer. It’s spacious enough for my air fryer and camp stove. I designed it with a piano hinge that allows it to fold over and stay securely in place with built-in magnets. Another piano hinge at the back allows the countertop to pivot forward, making it easy to store when not in use.
To support the countertop, I integrated a toilet box under it at the exact height needed for one side, while a simple 2x6 board mounted to the top of my microwave box supports the other. A fun bonus? I installed a small mirror behind the fan so I can freshen up in the morning before heading out for the day.
3. My Kitchen Sink Box
For my sink setup, I used a mixing bowl as the sink basin, drilling a hole for a drain and placing it above a gray water tank. The water supply comes from three-gallon jugs, which are lightweight and easy to refill. The faucet is a USB-rechargeable pump originally designed for office water jugs. I mounted it on a wooden platform, running a hose through the bottom and around the back to a quick-connect adapter, making setup and breakdown a breeze.
The cabinet itself is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. I covered the countertop with white stick-on tile and decorated the backsplash with 100 National Park stickers. This not only adds a pop of color but also serves as daily inspiration for my travels. To maximize storage, I included a hidden trash bin, a removable, magnetic spice rack, and pull-out drawers for coffee supplies and kitchen essentials.
4. My Hidden Microwave
I wanted a microwave in my camper but didn’t want it taking up space all the time, so I built a hidden compartment for it. The microwave sits inside a box with a cabinet door on a hinge, secured with magnets. When I need to use it, I simply roll it out using a handle I attached with JB Weld. To make rolling easier, I added small casters to the bottom, ensuring smooth movement in and out of the compartment.
5. My Transforming Table
This feature is incredibly versatile. The shelf that sits atop my front seats at night and holds my air fryer and stove - can also be detached and used outside as a workbench or a food prep table. I mounted aluminum support rails on both the van and the table, allowing me to slide and lock it into place easily. For added stability, I use a monopod (just like photographers and videographers use) as a quick-release adjustable leg.
Bonus: My Portable Power Station
My power station has always been in the trunk, but in my previous build I had to go outside every time I needed to turn it on or off because it didn't have a mobile app. That was a hassle! Now, I have an upgraded power station with a Bluetooth mobile app, allowing me to monitor and control everything remotely. The Bluetti powers my microwave, fridge, water pump, window fan, TV, and even my CPAP machine. The setup includes a 1000-watt pure sine wave inverter for backup charging, a 200-amp inline circuit breaker on the car starter battery for safety, and a dedicated fuse panel for 12V appliances.
With this power station, I no longer have to leave the van to manage my energy use. I can simply check my phone to see solar input, power consumption, and control the AC inverter with the tap of a button.
Final Thoughts
That’s it—five (or six) things I absolutely love about my minivan camper build! Each of these features has made my van life travels more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable. Until next time, thanks for following along on my journey. I appreciate your support!