Van Build Guide • Pricing
Real Numbers from a Professional Builder
"How much does a van conversion cost?" is probably the most common question we get. The honest answer: it depends. But that's not helpful, so here's a real breakdown based on what we actually build and what we've seen from DIY projects. No marketing fluff, just real numbers.
DIY BUILD
$10,000 – $40,000
Materials only. Doesn't include your time, mistakes, or tools you'll need to buy.
PROFESSIONAL BUILD
$30,000 – $150,000+
Turnkey, done right, with warranty. Wide range based on features.
Most professional builds we see fall in the $60,000 – $100,000 range for a complete conversion with quality components. Below that, you're making tradeoffs. Above that, you're adding luxury features.
This is often the biggest variable. A basic system with 200Ah of lead-acid batteries and minimal solar costs a few thousand. A full lithium setup with 400-600Ah capacity, 400+ watts of solar, a 3000W inverter, and all the proper components runs $8,000-15,000 in parts alone — then add professional installation.
Why it matters:
Cheap electrical is where DIY builds often fail. Bad wiring causes fires. Undersized batteries leave you stranded. This isn't the place to cut corners.
Includes insulation (Thinsulate, wool, foam), vapor barrier, and wall/ceiling panels. The material costs are moderate, but the labor is significant — fitting panels around all the curves and angles of a van is time-consuming.
Bed platform, kitchen cabinets, storage systems, closets, and any built-in furniture. Custom cabinetry made from quality materials costs more but lasts. Flat-pack or pre-made solutions cost less but may not fit your van perfectly.
Range from a simple two-burner propane stove and cooler ($500) to a full kitchen with induction cooktop, 12V fridge, sink with water pump, and dedicated storage ($6,000-8,000). The fridge alone can be $800-1,500 for quality 12V units.
Fresh water tank, pump, sink, water heater (optional), gray water tank. Simple setups with gravity-fed water are cheap. Pressurized systems with hot water and a proper gray tank cost more.
Ventilation fan ($200-500), diesel heater ($1,000-2,500 installed), optional AC unit ($1,500-3,000). The diesel heater is almost essential for anyone who camps in temperatures below 50°F.
Composting toilet only ($900-1,200). Full wet bath with shower, toilet, and proper drainage ($4,000-6,000). Many vanlifers skip the bathroom entirely to save space and money.
PARTIAL UPFIT
$30,000 – $45,000
We handle the technical stuff: electrical system, insulation, subfloor, wall panels. You finish the interior yourself or live with it as a simpler setup.
Best for: DIYers who want professional electrical, budget-conscious builds, weekend warriors
COMPLETE BUILD
$60,000 – $100,000
Full conversion with proper electrical (400Ah+ lithium, 400W solar), custom cabinetry, bed platform, kitchen with fridge and stove, climate control, and quality finishes. This is what most full-time vanlifers end up with.
Best for: Full-time living, extended travel, remote workers
PREMIUM BUILD
$100,000 – $150,000+
Everything above plus: larger electrical system, bathroom with shower, premium materials (hardwood, solid surface counters), custom fabrication, upgraded appliances, and luxury touches. This is a home on wheels, not just a camper.
Best for: Those who want the best, couples who need more space, work-from-van professionals
Every build is different. Tell us what you're trying to do — how you'll use it, how long you'll be out, what features matter to you — and we'll give you an honest estimate. No pressure, just real information so you can make a smart decision.
Want to know what YOUR build would actually cost? Tell us about your plans and we'll give you a real estimate — no generic pricing, just numbers based on what you actually need.
ADDRESS:
6159 E Huntsville Rd, Fayetteville, AR 72701
PHONE:
(479) 326-9200
EMAIL:
info@ozkvans.com