This post is actually a work in progress and we complete all those end of project tasks and make the most of the space we have. Check back later for more updates. I was hoping to find some plastic containers to screw in for easy storage but I was having a hard time finding some […]

Flooring I purchased a 1.8sqm pack of laminate flooring from Bunnings. The planks lock into each other. I ran the planks width weights over the floor ribs. I had to cut into the floor matt that extended past the front seats. On the last plank I had to route a channel for the cable to […]

It’s not enough to just have space in our van, we had to find ways to utilise that space and make it as functional as possible. Sliding storage underneath bed You could spend hundreds on sliding rails for underbed storage. I chose a simpler approach with two rows of plastic tubs suspended with aluminum right […]

I have taken a different approach to framework mostly in the interests of reducing weight. Generally both the strength and form of the framework is achieved with panels of plywood. I generally used 15mm plywood for the bedbase, and 12mm elsewhere. All other framework was Tasmanian Oak. All wood was sanded well to prevent splinters […]

Threaded inserts allow us to bolt into the chassis of the van. You can purchase a kit from eBay for around $30 with a range of sizes. I used M6 for most of the inserts in my build. Let’s see how they are installed. Ensure that the panel you are drilling into has enough depth […]

I looked at getting a prefab ladder to install on the back door but they are expensive. I had the idea of installing a custom made wooden ladder accessible when the sliding door is open. There is also the added security that passersby can’t climb it when the vans locked up. I cut two lengths […]

Getting the insulation and ventilation right in our van was crucial in allowing us to cope well in the hotter parts of Australia. Insulation Whole books could be written on van insulation and many a forum post has had van-lifers battle it out on what they think the best insulation method is. The reality is […]

One thing I was sure of when I was designing this van was that it would need a lot of power. We often spend weeks and weeks off-grid and the van would have to cope with long periods without external charging. The system consists of a Enerdrive DC2DC 40a charger which charges from the alternator […]

For large vans prefab roof rack systems can cost thousands and lack changeability. I wanted to design a modular system that will later support 2 x 180 watt solar panels, a deck area, and all my accessories – all for under $500 AUD. This Roof Rack system was one of the most design-intensive tasks involved […]