The Smart Upfit Conversion Camper Van Process: From Minivan to Camper Van

Are you dreaming of embarking on epic road trips, exploring the great outdoors, and experiencing the freedom of conversion camper vans? 

At Smart Upfit Camper Vans, we can turn your vision into a reality. Specializing in upfitting and converting Mercedes Benz Metris vans into high-quality campervans, by providing exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail, and a commitment to customer satisfaction. 

In this blog post, we will take you through our process of camper van conversion, highlighting the key steps involved in transforming your van into a cozy and functional minivan camper.

Step 1: Choosing Your Conversion Style for Conversion Camper Vans

The first step in the process is determining the ideal conversion style that suits your lifestyle and travel preferences. All of our builds sleep four and seat five.

We offer a range of conversion styles for conversion camper vans to cater to different needs: 

  • Pop Top: Provides standing room and sleep space for two individuals [1]. By adding a pop-up roof, this conversion style creates extra vertical space inside the van, allowing you to comfortably stand up and move around. The pop top also serves as a comfortable loft bed that accommodates two adults, ensuring a cozy and restful sleeping area during your adventures on the road.

  • Weekender style: Designed to offer a maximized sleeping area with an optional removable swivel kitchen. With this style, you'll have ample space to relax and sleep four comfortably in our largest bench seat/ bed plus the pop-top sleeping area. The removable swivel kitchen allows for flexibility and convenience, enabling you to cook delicious meals while enjoying the scenic views outside your van. It's the perfect setup for those seeking a combination of sleeping comfort and a versatile kitchen setup for their conversion camper van.

  • City Van style: This style features our mid-sized bench seat/ bed and pop-top sleeping area, in addition to space-saving cabinetry and storage solutions, allowing you to efficiently organize your belongings and essentials. With carefully designed cabinetry, you'll have plenty of storage for your camping gear, supplies, and personal items, ensuring a clutter-free living space in your van. The City Van style is perfect for those who prioritize organization and functionality in their conversion camper van.

  • Trio Style: This style provides top-quality materials to create a luxurious and comfortable living space. The premium cabinetry offers our largest storage space, showcasing exquisite design and attention to detail. A slightly smaller-sized bench seat/ bed offers sleeping for two, and the pop top provides a second bed for two more campers. With the Trio Style, you can enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while experiencing the comforts and elegance of a well-appointed campervan interior

Step 2: Preparing the Van for Conversion Camper Vans

The transformation begins with removing the seats and cutting openings for the pop-top and windows. Metris vans typically arrive without windows in the body, but we ensure your conversion camper van will have strategically placed windows to offer light and ventilation. 

The pop top is then installed, providing room to stand and a comfortable loft bed that sleeps two adults. This top is pushed up when not in use, to create the standing height.

Step 3: Rail System for Conversion Camper Vans

To maximize safety and functionality in our conversion camper vans, we install a rail system for the bench seat/bed. .  The bench seat provides seating for three and a sleeping area for two. 

This rail system allows the bench seat to be moved forward and back to create maximum cargo area in the rear or maximum living space in the front. The rails make it easy to mold your camper to fit your needs at any given moment, and they’re one of our favorite features in the van.

Step 4: Flooring and Walls in Conversion Camper Vans

The van flooring and walls are acoustically insulated for sound reduction, creating a serene and peaceful environment inside the conversion camper van. Electrical wiring is completed, and 3M Thinsulate is added for temperature stability, allowing you to enjoy your adventures in almost any climate.

Step 5: Cabinetry and Systems for Conversion Camper Vans

The next stage involves installing cabinetry, along with lighting, water, and cooking systems in our conversion camper vans. Custom-made interior panels maximize your van's interior volume, providing efficient storage solutions. The cabinetry is designed to be functional, stylish, and perfect for travel.  Darkening curtains are tailored to pair perfectly with the interior panels, adding privacy and enhancing the overall aesthetic.

Step 6: Bed and Kitchen in Conversion Camper Vans

As the conversion progresses, the combination seating bench and sleeping bed are mounted to the floor rails, offering a comfortable sleeping area that can easily be converted into a seating space. 

Cabinets and kitchen systems are completed, providing you with the convenience of cooking and dining on the go. As outlined in the style section we offer different models of cabinetry and kitchen setups, ensuring that your conversion camper van meets your unique requirements and needs. 

Step 7: Windows and Finishing Touches for Conversion Camper Vans

One of the final steps in the conversion process for conversion camper vans is the installation of new windows. These tinted windows not only add a stylish touch but also include sliding openings with screens, allowing for increased air movement and ventilation. 

The windows provide a connection to the outside world while maintaining the comfort and privacy of your conversion camper van interior.

Step 8: Happy Travelers in Conversion Camper Vans

With the conversion complete, it's time to hit the road and enjoy the freedom of conversion camper vans. 

With the Smart Upfit level of attention to detail, paired with quality craftsmanship, and focus on safety, we are positive that you'll be happy with your newly converted campervan. 

Conclusion

Now is the perfect time to start your conversion process and transform your van into a dream campervan that suits your lifestyle and adventures. With a focus on quality, safety, and customer satisfaction,  We ensure that your conversion will meet your expectations and enhances your travel experiences.

Don't wait, take the first step toward your conversion journey by contacting us today. Rick will guide you through the process, helping you determine the ideal conversion style for your needs and bringing your vision to life. Start your conversion process now and unlock the freedom and possibilities that come with owning a customized conversion camper van.

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