If you’re part of my generation, the term “conversion van” conjures up something completely different than modern vans…something with a lot of brown carpet and a lot of captain’s chairs that swivel around.
We had one of those vans in the early ’80s, and man, was it high class! But that van didn’t have a galley or a shower or a toilet or a bed, for that matter – all things that you often find in modern conversion vans. In that regard, conversion vans of old were often more of a comfortable vehicle to get you from one place to the next. Today’s vans, though, are homes on wheels that you can legitimately live in for an extended period of time between Point A and Point B.
With that in mind, I thought a list of the best conversion vans of 2024 would be a nice resource for those of you itching to experience the freedom of the open road. So, with that, I give you my top picks!
Table of Contents
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Ford Transit MR
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Chevy Express 3500
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Camplife Customs Apres 144 Snow
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Bossi Vans
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Beartooth Vanworks Rungu
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Mammoth Vans
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Boulder Campervans
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Live a Little Vans
- Best Conversion Vans 2024: Gone Mobile Vans Ford Transit Trail Ready Camper Conversion Van
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Ford Transit MR
When it comes to conversion vans, finding the perfect balance between comfort and rugged capability is paramount. Enter the Ford Transit MR Campervan, a professionally-converted van available through BTR Outfitters, a family-owned business renowned for their excellence in the field.
Having had the opportunity to test this van alongside the experts at BTR Outfitters, I can attest to its status as a true adventurer’s dream on wheels. Let’s dive into what makes this van stand out among the best conversion vans options of 2024…
First off, this conversion van is designed for group adventures, comfortably accommodating up to 6 people. But it’s not just about sleeping arrangements; it’s about the experience. An outside shower ensures post-exploration freshness, while the 200W solar panel keeps the van powered up even in remote areas, extending your off-grid adventures.
But it’s not just about comfort; it’s about capability too. The WeldTec lift kit propels the Transit MR Campervan off the beaten path, complemented by Method 701 bead grip race wheels, ensuring confidence on diverse terrain.
Inside, convenience reigns supreme. A Ruvati 15X15 sink and induction cooktop streamline meal prep, while the Isotherm Cruise 130W fridge keeps perishables fresh. With the Aqua-Hot hot water/heating system and Dometic RTX 1000 12V roof top A/C, comfort knows no bounds!
Space optimization is key, with a dinette-to-bed combo and swivel seats offering versatile seating and sleeping arrangements. Not to mention the hidden flip-up storage box for a Porta Potty, ensuring essential facilities are always within reach. The pop-top roof by Colorado Camper Vans is certainly a bonus, too!
Outside, the Fiamma Freedom awning creates a shaded space to relax, while the Aluminess front bumper with bull bar adds both rugged aesthetics and protection. And with the Aluminess ladder and tire/box rack combo and rear door base unit and horizontal bike rack kit combo, bringing along gear is a breeze.
Under the hood, power meets performance with the 3.5L Ecoboost V6 engine and 3.73 limited slip axle, while safety is bolstered by the 360-degree camera.
But what truly sets this van apart are its advanced features. The Xantrex 807-2055 Freedom HFS true sine wave inverter, Redarc battery management system, and the Lithium battery DC to DC charger/isolator, along with 600 amp hours of power from three 200 amp hour SOK batteries, ensure reliable power management for extended adventures.
In essence, the Ford Transit MR conversion van available BTR Outfitters is the height of comfort and capability. With its rugged exterior, meticulously designed interior features, and cutting-edge technical specifications, this van is primed to elevate your off-road experiences to new heights. So why wait? Let the journey begin!
Learn more about the Ford Transit MR
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Chevy Express 3500
If you’re an overlanding enthusiast who needs the perfect adventure vehicle, your search might just end here. Meet the Chevy Express 3500 conversion van, a high-end conversion with a pop-top roof by Colorado Camper Van, available at BTR Outfitters. This bad boy isn’t just another van; it’s a symbol of rugged capability, versatility, and comfort, making it a top contender in the world of conversion vans.
Let’s start with this van’s off-road capabilities. Trust me…there are many!
This Chevy Express 3500 conversion van is more than just looks; it’s built to conquer the toughest terrain. Thanks to its Quigley 4X4 conversion with a 3-inch lift, it boasts the necessary ground clearance to explore remote camping spots. Plus, with a locking rear differential, a 3.42 rear axle ratio, and a powerful 6.6-liter V8 engine, this van is ready to tackle any adventure you throw at it.
But the upgrades don’t stop there…
The exterior of this conversion van is outfitted with front and rear Fox shocks, a progressive rear leaf spring, and 33″ BF Goodrich K02 tires mounted on matte black Method race wheels. And let’s not forget the WeldTec tube winch stealth bumper up front and the WeldTec tube bumper with dual swing outs in the rear. These enhancements make it equally capable both on and off the road, ensuring it’s ready for any adventure you have in mind.
Now, let’s talk about what’s inside this conversion van…
The roof lifts to create a spacious cabin where you can stand up straight, providing additional sleeping space for two people up top. With two more beds below – one for two adults in the rear and one for two kids up front – this van comfortably sleeps 4-6 people.
But comfort doesn’t stop there. The interior features a Dometic TRX 1000 12V rooftop A/C, a diesel heater, and a hot water system to keep you cozy no matter the weather. Plus, with onboard fresh water and gray water tanks, a Maxxair fan for ventilation, and a complete kitchen setup, you’ll feel right at home wherever you go.
And let’s not forget about the cabinetry, beautifully designed countertops, wood-paneled walls, LED lighting, and ample storage space throughout the cabin. Like I said in the introduction to this article, modern conversion vans are not at all like the ones I grew up with! These vans are the height of luxury!
But the cherry on top? When you purchase this van from BTR Outfitters, you’re not just getting a vehicle; you’re getting the support of one of the best teams in the business. With BTR Outfitters by your side, you can buy with confidence, knowing they’ll support you before, during, and after the sale.
This Chevy Express 3500 conversion van is the ultimate overlanding vehicle, offering a fantastic pop-top conversion, off-road prowess, and luxury touches all wrapped into one. So why wait? Start your adventure today with the perfect conversion van from BTR Outfitters!
Learn more about the Chevy Express 3500 Conversion Van
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Camplife Customs Apres 144 Snow
When it comes to top-tier van conversions, Camplife Customs is an excellent example. As a family-owned business based in California, they’ve garnered a reputation for building some of the finest vans in the state. But what sets them apart from the competition?
Well, it all boils down to expertise and craftsmanship. Camplife Customs benefits from its founder’s extensive background in welding, fabrication, and building trades. They’ve leveraged this experience to create custom vans that boast unparalleled strength, premium materials, and flawless finishes.
But let’s dive deeper into what makes Camplife Customs’ conversion vans truly exceptional…
First and foremost, strength is the foundation of every Camplife Customs van. These vehicles feature steel-fabricated frameworks, ensuring unparalleled durability and long-term resilience. Paired with marine-grade substrates and top-of-the-line electronic components, these vans epitomize quality and reliability.
Innovation is another cornerstone of Camplife Customs’ philosophy. Adam and Bobby – the company founders – continuously push the boundaries of the industry, introducing cutting-edge features and technologies that set their vans apart from the competition.
Take, for instance, the Apres 144 Snow – one of Camplife Customs’ flagship models.
Externally, this van is a sight to behold. Equipped with a 360-degree camera, parking sensors, and Black Rhino rims with Goodyear Duratrac Tires, it’s ready to tackle any terrain. The Vancompass Stage 3 lift kit and Optirate rear leaf springs provide enhanced off-road capabilities, while the Baja front bumper adds a rugged aesthetic.
Inside, the Apres 144 Snow offers a cabin that is nothing short of luxurious. From the Espar diesel heater and heated floors to the ski boot warmer and four-season insulation, every detail is meticulously crafted to enhance the conversion van experience. The van also boasts a range of amenities, including a Laveo Dryflush Toilet, Waterdrop filtration system, and a Fugatti on-demand water heater.
Electronically, the Apres 144 Snow is second to none. With 200-watt solar panels, 800ah Campluxe off-grid batteries, and a 2200-watt pure sine inverter, it provides reliable power for off-grid adventures. Meanwhile, the oversized Dometic refrigerator, two-burner cooktop, and automatic king-sized bed ensure that the comforts of home are always within reach.
But Camplife Customs doesn’t stop there. With a diverse range of models to choose from, including the Apres 170 Snow Deluxe, Apres 144 Surf, and Apres 170 Desert Deluxe, there’s a van to suit every adventure style.
Investing in a Camplife Customs conversion van is more than just a purchase – it’s a commitment to quality, luxury, and durability. So why settle for ordinary when you can experience the extraordinary with Camplife Customs? Discover more about Camplife Customs and elevate your overlanding experience today!
Learn more about Camplife Customs
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Bossi Vans
When it comes to van conversions, expertise and passion make all the difference. Enter Bossi Vans, a family-owned company based in Southern California, where a team of experts in welding, fabrication, and electrical work come together to create some truly incredible conversion vans.
What sets Bossi Vans apart is their unwavering commitment to excellence in every aspect of van conversion. Whether it’s a semi-custom or full van conversion, their dedication to quality and customer satisfaction shines through.
A semi-custom conversion offers a blend of pre-designed and custom components, providing a van that fits your needs at a lower budget and with a quicker turnaround time. On the other hand, a full conversion involves you in every step of the design process, allowing you to personalize every aspect of your van.
Now, let’s dive into what a completed Bossi Vans conversion looks like.
Take, for example, the Baja, a recent conversion of a 2020 Mercedes 170 Sprinter van. From the Aluminess rack and ladder for easy roof access to the dual 175-watt Renogy solar panels and Fiamma f45 Eagle electric awning, every detail is meticulously crafted for both functionality and aesthetics.
Externally, upgrades like the LED light bar, Diode Dynamics flood lights, and Vanspeed side steps enhance both utility and style. Meanwhile, the interior boasts custom wall panels, Lonseal Lonridge flooring, and a galley with custom butcher block countertops.
But it’s not just about looks. This van is equipped for off-grid living with four lithium-ion batteries, a Victron 3000-watt inverter charger, and a 30-amp shore power connection. The 30-gallon fresh water tank, 28-gallon gray water tank, and Seaflo 42-Series water pump ensure ample water supply wherever your adventures take you.
Cooking, sleeping, and comfort are also top priorities as well. With features like an Empava induction stove top, Highpointe microwave and convection oven, and Isotherm Cruise 200 fridge and freezer, you can enjoy home-cooked meals on the road. Plus, amenities like the Dometic TRX 2000 air conditioner and diesel heater ensure a comfortable living space in any climate.
What truly sets Bossi Vans apart, however, is their attention to detail. From maximizing sleeping space with Vanspeed side capsules to including Starlink for off-grid internet access, every aspect of their conversions is meticulously designed for comfort, functionality, and convenience.
And this level of craftsmanship extends to every Bossi Vans build, whether it’s a semi-custom or fully custom conversion. If you’re in the market for one of the best conversion vans of 2024, look no further than Bossi Vans!
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Beartooth Vanworks Rungu
It’s not very often that you hear people describe a conversion van as a “masterpiece” or a “work of art.” Yet, in this case, both of these descriptors are applicable to the Beartooth Vanworks Rungu.
Beartooth Vanworks is known in the industry for its beautiful designs and impeccable build quality. This, combined with the addition of exotic African Bubinga wood – a beautiful, pinkish, sustainably harvested wood with an extreme strength-to-weight ratio that darkens over time – launched a pursuit of a conversion van on a completely different level.
But the addition of African Bubinga wood was just the beginning. Think of it as a launching point for creating a van unlike anything else on the market. Let’s dive in and see what this incredible van has to offer!
Starting outside, you’ll notice that this 2021 Mercedes Sprinter 144 4×4 high roof is outfitted with some heavy-duty armor to protect it when you’re exploring off-the-beaten-path locations. The Backwoods Adventure Mods front bumper with a lighting package and winch is joined by BTV Custom roof bars up top, BTV Custom nerf bars on either side, and skid plates on the bottom.
The van also features a rear lock box, Black Rhino rims wrapped in all-terrain tires, and an Agile RIP suspension kit that gives the van more ground clearance while ensuring you get a tighter ride on and off-road.
All of these exterior upgrades make this van highly capable in all sorts of environments, terrain, and weather conditions. It also looks absolutely awesome, for what that’s worth!
Heading inside, you’ll find as nice of a conversion van interior as you’ll find on the market. As mentioned earlier, the interior features African Bubinga wood countertops and trim. There’s even Bubinga runners on the van’s ceiling that give this van a heightened sense of style and adds to the coziness factor of the cabin.
The galley area boasts beautiful dark blue Richlite cabinets made from 100 percent recycled paper products. The combination of the blue cabinetry, dark wood tones, and aluminum handles with locking faces enhances the aesthetic appeal of this van’s interior even further. From a functionality standpoint, the galley has everything you need for cooking while camping – an induction burner, a Gooseneck sink, and an Isotherm 130 drawer fridge.
Underfoot is a marble-style Smartcore floor that’s both durable and completely waterproof. But, that’s not all – the floor is also heated with glycol running through pex pipes between the floor runners. That means you can wake up on a chilly winter’s morning and walk around the van barefoot without cold chills running up your legs!
Enhancing that comfort even further are the dyed bison hides that line the cushion fabrics. Bison hide is also used to line the flare extensions for the rear bed, adding a soft, beautiful, textural element to that space as well.
Speaking of beds, not only is there a bench-to-bed conversion with the aforementioned flare extensions to make a full-sized bed for you and yours, but there’s also a pop-top roof – the Penthouse, as Beartooth Vanworks calls it – where your kids or guests can hit the sack in their own private space.
This pop-top is a top-of-the-line option certified by Mercedes. Not only does it nearly double the interior space of the van, but the van’s factory warranty remains intact. And with a collapsible access ladder, guests can come and go as they please and stow the ladder away when it’s not in use to improve the functionality of the main level.
The interior offers a laundry list of other features that enhance the Rungu’s comfort and functionality:
- Entrance LED lighting to light your way in and out of the van at night
- Touch LED lighting with a dimming feature throughout the van that is also controllable by a main switch for convenience
- An upgraded sound system that’s separate from the vehicle’s systems, so you can jam out without turning the van on
- Hidden compartments throughout the vehicle that take advantage of every nook and cranny of space
- A slide-out powder-coated aluminum ski tray
- Integrated smartphone wireless charging in a Bubinga countertop
- Forced air heat
But this van isn’t just a pretty face with lots of cool gadgets. It’s also outfitted with systems that make it a functional camper van for long-term off-grid use. There’s 300 watts of solar on the roof paired with a whopping 600ah worth of heated lithium batteries. Those batteries feed a 3000-watt inverter, so you’re sure to have all the power you need when you aren’t hooked up to shore power.
The Rungu also comes equipped with a seven-gallon gray water tank, hot water, and a 21-gallon freshwater tank that’s mounted on the bottom of the van to save interior space for storage and amenities. Don’t worry about damage to the external tank, though – it’s protected by a skid plate!
I could go on and on about this van, but instead, I’ll leave you with this – if it’s the pinnacle of craftsmanship you’re after, it’s hard to beat Beartooth Vanworks.’
This build allowed their team to continue their tradition of “Rugged Liberation.” The Rungu is without a doubt a gorgeous example of what’s possible when creativity, high-quality products, and one of the most functional van models on the market come together!
Learn more about Beartooth Vanworks
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Mammoth Vans
Heading out on an overland journey is more than just a trip these days; it’s a lifestyle. And with Mammoth Vans, that lifestyle becomes an exhilarating reality. Inspired by the ancient nomadic mammals that once roamed the Pacific Northwest, Mammoth Vans embodies the spirit of adventure in every project they undertake.
Founded six years ago by two outdoor enthusiasts, Mammoth Vans is dedicated to crafting purpose-built adventure vehicles capable of tackling the most epic journeys. Whether it’s exploring rugged terrain venturing off the beaten path or doing some highway cruising, Mammoth Vans’ conversions are designed to enhance your outdoor experiences wherever they may take place.
From Adventure Wagon interiors to Victron electrical systems, Espar heaters, and water systems, Mammoth Vans offers a range of customizable options to suit your needs. With a streamlined approach to project management, Mammoth Vans ensures fast build times without compromising on quality, too.
Specializing primarily in Mercedes Sprinter conversions while also accommodating Transit and Promaster platforms, Mammoth Vans offers a plethora of customization options. From cozy beds and outdoor showers to auxiliary fuel tanks and overhead storage, the possibilities are endless.
But that’s just the beginning…
Mammoth Vans also provides a wide range of upgrades, including suspension enhancements, roof racks, off-road lights, and rooftop tents. With Mammoth Vans, you can transform your van into the ultimate adventure vehicle tailored to your specifications.
Whether you’re a seasoned overlander or a novice explorer, Mammoth Vans is here to bring your vision to life. With a commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and customer satisfaction, Mammoth Vans is your trusted partner on the road to adventure. If you’re looking for one of the best conversion vans of 2024, you’ll find it at Mammoth Vans!
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Boulder Campervans
Mount Elbert is the tallest mountain in Colorado. The pinnacle. The top of the class. The biggest of the Fourteeners. It’s a fitting name for Boulder Campervans’ epic build, too, because the Mount Elbert Van is also the top of the class.
This is hands-down the most impressive conversion van I’ve ever seen. I mean, heck, it comes with its own camper trailer! Top to bottom, inside and out, Boulder Campervans has spared no expense. At $410,000, I won’t pretend that this van is for everyone. There is a specific buyer for this beast, and whoever that buyer is will get a premium conversion van, to say the least.
The Mount Elbert is built on a 2021 Mercedes Sprinter 2500 170” extended 4×4 platform, so not only do you get the durability and reliability of the Mercedes Sprinter, but you also get the added room of the 170” model plus the off-road capabilities of a 4×4. Of course, Boulder Campervans has added a long list of goodies to enhance this van’s rugged capabilities even further…
- Backwoods front bumper with a bull bar, a 20-inch light bar, spotlights, and a Warn Zeon 12 Platinum 12,000lb winch
- Backwoods rear bumper with floodlights
- Baja Designs LP9 clear and amber lights
- RoamBuilt Nerf bars, surf poles, and surf cradles
All those goodies are joined by an Agile RipKit suspension upgrade with 6,000-pound leaf springs, an Agile Offroad 2500 Big Brake kit, and Black Rhino Arsenal wheels wrapped in BFGoodrich K02 all-terrain rubber. There’s an Agile Offroad Bravo snorkel kit for those really wet adventures, too.
The van’s exterior upgrades aren’t limited to off-road capabilities, though. Up top is a Beartooth 170 Ext roof rack and an Aluminess side ladder to access it. With a custom hooking system on the side for an awning, you can take a break in the shade while the 400-watt Zamp Solar Obsidian Series solar panels on the van’s roof charge the electrical system (the trailer has its own 200-watt Zamp Solar Obsidian Series solar panels).
Other features include a two-gallon Agile Offroad Rotopax diesel fuel carrier, a B2B carrier, a ski box, a tire carrier, a LineX hood, a rocker, and flares, among other things. Truly, the list goes on and on!
Now, for the interior features…
As impressive as this rig is outside, I suspect you’ll find its interior amenities equally, if not more impressive.
This four-season-ready van has double-stuffed Havelock wool and Thinsulate insulation in the walls and ceiling, a Rixens D5 heater, and a Nomadic 3000 air conditioner to keep you comfortable. When the weather is nice enough without heat or air, you can use a remote to fire up the Maxx Air fan, open the windows for a nice cross breeze, and rely on the Van Essentials bug screens to keep the mosquitos out.
You can fix tasty meals in the galley, too. The Mount Elbert comes with Bamboo cabinets and storage throughout, plus an Indel 130-liter refrigerator, a microwave, a sink, and a dual-burner induction cooktop.
The Corian countertop offers ample room to prepare meals, but the retractable table on the opposite side of the galley is an ideal solution if you need additional prep space. It also doubles as a pull-out desk for office space. And the Bamboo Lagun tabletop fits perfectly between the four swivel passenger and driver seats, giving you a nice spot to enjoy the food you’ve worked so hard to prepare! All told, there’s room in the van for five people to sit down and have a nice meal.
Other noteworthy features of the Mount Elbert include the following:
- Pop-top roof with a collapsible ladder for access
- Room to sleep five (with space for two more person in the trailer)
- Dometic 2.6 cassette toilet
- Reading lights
- 120-volt and 12-volt USB outlets throughout
- A full floor-to-ceiling wardrobe with hanging shelving and storage
- Garmin GPS
- Four 200ah Victron Energy LifePO4 12-volt lithium batteries with Bluetooth monitoring
- Victron Energy MultiPlus 3000W inverter and charger
- Starlink internet with a projector and screen
- Custom Swedish Oak flooring
Stepping out of the van and into the accompanying trailer, you’ll find the same level of thoughtful design, quality materials, and functionality. Not only does the trailer offer tons of Bamboo cabinetry and storage, a Corian countertop, and a dual-burner induction cooktop, but it also has its own Bamboo Lagun tabletop and mount for additional space to eat or play games.
The trailer is also outfitted with its own Rixens D5 heater, an air conditioner, and its own electrical system with 400ah of total battery power that’s completely separate from the van. With a Laveo dry flush toilet and an indoor Frigo stainless steel shower, this trailer is purpose-built to give you additional living space and expand the functionality of this setup even further. Impressive, right?!
At the end of the day, this isn’t just a conversion van – it’s a complete camping system. Take the van out just you and your significant other and enjoy a fun weekend in the outdoors. Or, hook up the trailer, bring the kiddos with you, and make family memories together. Heck, you can even leave the van at home and take the trailer out with another vehicle if you want!
If you’re in the market for the ultimate conversion van, the Mount Elbert model from Boulder Campervans is worth a long, hard look. The level of sophistication of the finishes, features, and components is second to none. Like I said earlier, this van is at the top of its class – and it shows in every nook and cranny!
Learn more about Boulder Campervans
Best Conversion Vans 2024: Live a Little Vans
In a world of cookie-cutter conversion vans, Live a Little Vans stands out as a unique option dripping with creativity and innovation. Founded by a small family team unafraid to push boundaries, Live a Little Vans is rewriting the rules of van customization one project at a time.
Take, for example, the 2018 Ford Transit Live a Little Vans did for their client Casey. Featuring a sliding barn door and bulkhead separating the living area from the cab, this van exudes farmhouse charm while offering practical storage solutions.
Despite its compact size, Live a Little Vans maximized every inch of space in Casey’s van, from the collapsible bed platform to the hidden shower tucked away in a base cabinet. It’s this ingenious use of space that makes these vans all the more functional and comfortable.
Another standout build is the 2021 RAM Promaster 2500 Live a Little Vans customized for their client Nicholas.
What sets this van apart is its unique layout, with the sink positioned in the center rather than along the walls. This design choice not only maximizes counter space but also creates a distinct separation between the galley and sleeping area. But the surprises don’t end there – beneath the chaise lounge lies a hidden shower and toilet, ingeniously concealed to optimize space.
For clients Niki and Dan, who have a 2022 Sprinter 4×4 2500, Live a Little Vans designed a van for avid skiers seeking a true four-season experience. With features like radiant floor heating, a lithium electrical system, an onboard air compressor, and rear ski storage (shown above), this van is equipped for any adventure, from snowy mountain excursions to off-grid camping.
And then there’s Margaret and Andy, for whom Live a Little Vans crafted a versatile 2022 Sprinter 4×4 2500 capable of seating and sleeping up to four people. Utilizing a SmartFloor system, the rear seats can be quickly removed to make way for a storage bench and Lagun table, perfect for longer trips with fewer passengers.
What sets Live a Little Vans apart is their willingness to think outside the box, resulting in some of the most unique designs in the conversion van market.
From their road less traveled approach to their impeccable finishes, Live a Little Vans is redefining what it means to hit the road in style. With each project, they prove that they belong on the list of the best conversion vans of 2024.
Learn more about Live a Little Vans