The rise of motorhome conversions: from necessity to status symbol
In recent years, campervan conversions have come into the spotlight, reaching prices comparable to real estate. What was once associated with a lifestyle chosen by struggling people has now become a status symbol. The transformation of this narrative is largely due to the rise of popular social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. However, it’s important to recognise that the portrayal of van life often emphasises the benefits and downplays the challenges, such as the difficulty of finding a toilet at night. So before investing in an expensive vehicle conversion, it’s important to consider whether it’s really necessary.
For some people, like me, converting our daily cars into full-time RVs isn’t practical. Vehicles like the Crosstrek or Flex serve multiple purposes, from storing car seats and friends to our medium-sized dog. With such a wide range of uses, it would be impractical to have a permanent kitchen or bed in the vehicle. But that doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy comfortable nights in the car. In fact, I’ve found budget-friendly sleeping solutions that cost less than $250.
One of the most important components of a sleeping arrangement is an air mattress. In my vehicles, a twin-sized mattress fits perfectly in the backseat of my Crosstrek, eliminating the bulge in the back. It is thick enough to be comfortable and only costs $14.88. Additionally, the mattress inflates quickly and easily with a $16.99 air pump. The days of having to inflate the mattress manually are over, especially since most cars now have electrical outlets that can power the pump.
To stay warm on colder nights, a good sleeping bag is essential. I learned this the hard way on a trip to Iceland when our RV broke down and we were stranded on the side of the road in freezing temperatures. Luckily, I had packed a couple of sleeping bags rated for -18 degrees, which kept us warm all night. Synthetic sleeping bags are a cheaper alternative to down sleeping bags and provide warmth even when wet.
Good ventilation is another aspect of a comfortable sleeping experience. Window screens are a great solution as they allow fresh air in while keeping mosquitoes and other unwanted animals out. They are inexpensive, starting at $8.98. For more privacy and temperature control, you can easily make your own window shades using foam, reflective insulation and tape. A more permanent option is window tinting, which provides more privacy and blocks harmful UV rays, keeping the vehicle cooler in hot weather.
As for kitchen equipment, a single-burner propane stove for $31.53 is an inexpensive option. It can be stored in the vehicle and used to cook meals while camping. A camp chair, while 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 pouring spout for $34.99 is a must-have for cooking, cleaning, and drinking. Combined with a rechargeable water dispenser pump, it makes filling up water bottles and washing up a breeze. Finally, a used cooler can be an inexpensive option for storing and keeping food cool.
By incorporating these items into your car, you can create a low-cost version of van life that’s easy to set up and take down. It may be tempting to invest in high-end gear right away because you’re inspired by what looks good on social media. But this cheaper route allows for easy upgrades based on personal needs rather than external influences. And if you find that living in your car isn’t as glamorous as it seems, you don’t have to sell your house to learn that lesson.
In summary, while RV conversions have become popular and are often portrayed on social media as a luxurious lifestyle, it is important to weigh the practicality and necessity of such conversions. For those who use their vehicles for multiple purposes, finding budget-friendly alternatives for sleeping and kitchen facilities can provide a comfortable camping experience without expensive conversions.
