The Rise of Camper Van Transformations: From Necessity to Status Symbol
In recent years, camper van conversions have been thrust into the spotlight, reaching prices comparable to real estate. What was once associated with a lifestyle chosen by those facing difficulties has now evolved into a symbol of status. The transformation of this narrative can largely be attributed to the rise of popular social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, it’s important to recognize that the portrayal of van life often emphasizes the benefits while downplaying the challenges, such as the difficulty of finding a restroom at night. So, before investing in an expensive vehicle conversion, it’s crucial to consider whether it is truly necessary.
For some individuals, like myself, converting our daily drivers into full-time campers is not practical. Vehicles like the Crosstrek or Flex serve multiple purposes, from accommodating car seats and friends to even our medium-sized dog. With such diverse usage, having a permanent kitchen or bedding setup in the vehicle would be inconvenient. However, this doesn’t mean that we can’t enjoy comfortable nights in the car. In fact, I have found budget-friendly sleeping solutions that cost under $250.
One of the essential components of a sleeping setup is an air mattress. For my vehicles, a twin-size mattress fits perfectly in the back of my Crosstrek, eliminating the bump in the rear. It’s thick enough to provide comfort and costs only $14.88. Additionally, investing in an air pump, which costs $16.99, makes inflating the mattress quick and easy. Gone are the days of manually blowing up the mattress, especially when most cars now come with AC outlets that can power the pump.
To stay warm during colder nights, a good sleeping bag is crucial. I learned this the hard way during a trip to Iceland, where our camper van broke down, leaving us stranded on the side of the road in freezing temperatures. Luckily, I had packed a couple of 0-degree sleeping bags, which kept us warm throughout the night. Synthetic sleeping bags are a more affordable option compared to down-filled ones and still provide warmth even when wet.
Proper ventilation is another consideration for a comfortable sleeping experience. Window screens are a great solution, providing fresh air while keeping out mosquitoes and other unwanted creatures. They are inexpensive, with prices starting at $8.98. For added privacy and temperature control, DIY window shades made from foam core, reflective insulation, and tape can be easily created. Tinting windows is also a more permanent option that adds privacy and blocks harmful UV rays, keeping the vehicle cooler in hot weather.
In terms of a kitchen setup, a one-burner propane stove is a cost-effective option at $31.53. It can be stored inside the vehicle and used for cooking meals while camping. A camp chair, although a slightly more expensive item on the list, can enhance the camping experience by providing a comfortable place to sit and eat. A 5-gallon water jug with a spout, priced at $34.99, is a must-have for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. Pairing it with a rechargeable water dispenser pump makes filling up water bottles and doing dishes a breeze. Finally, a thrifted cooler can be a budget-friendly option for storing food and keeping it cool.
By incorporating these items into your car, you can create a cheap version of van life that is easy to set up and dismantle. It may be tempting to splurge on high-end equipment right away, influenced by what looks great on social media. However, taking this more affordable route allows for easy upgrades based on personal needs rather than external influences. Moreover, if you discover that living out of your car isn’t as glamorous as it seems, you won’t have to sell your house to learn that lesson.
In conclusion, while camper van transformations have become popular and are often depicted as a luxury lifestyle on social media, it is important to weigh the practicality and necessity of such conversions. For those who use their vehicles for various purposes, finding budget-friendly alternatives for sleeping and kitchen setups can provide a comfortable camping experience without the need for expensive conversions.