In this blog post, we will answer the following question: Can you convert a VW Transporter Shuttle? We will explain how to convert a VW Transporter Shuttle to a motorhome, and give you a few tips for getting the best conversion van on the market.

Can you convert a VW Transporter Shuttle?

Yes, you can convert a VW Transporter Shuttle to a motorhome. Volkswagen was largely a forerunner in the idea of converting a utility vehicle from a van to a motorhome. The Transported Shuttle is actually a good choice for a conversion van because it is reliable, spacious and it offers good value for money.

To successfully convert your VW Transporter Shuttle, follow these tips:

Define your needs as precisely as possible: Before finding the right van, it is necessary to take the time to define your needs. Would you like a converted van for a weekend or long-haul trip? How many members will the crew consist of? In what season and in what climate will you be travelling? Of course, your budget is also a determining factor in your choice!

Getting a good deal: Whether you are buying your VW Transporter Shuttle new or second hand, be vigilant during the first visit and do not hesitate to ask any questions you feel are necessary about the history of the vehicle. Inspect it down to the last detail: the chassis, engine, tires, etc. A good vehicle is a maintained vehicle!

Make plans: Before embarking on the conversion journey, sketch out some plans. Take the measurements of your van and try to put all the elements and amenities you want to have on paper. This will allow you to become aware of the available surface and to get an idea of the rendering.

Do not hesitate to research for tips online: The community of amateur planners is growing day by day on the Internet. It’s a real plus when you embark on such a project. This allows you to ask the questions you want, find help and keep some motivation during the work.

Ask for help around you: During the construction phase, it can sometimes be very useful to get help. Installing insulation or plating, assembling certain furniture or installing panelling can be tedious without outside help! At the same time, for a little more technical work phases such as electricity or gas, it can be reassuring to call in a professional when you have no knowledge in this area.

Research the homologation process: In order to be approved as an RV, it is necessary to install at least the installation and legalization of a bed and a piece of furniture in your bus. With these two changes, we can now convert the bus to an RV although we usually carry out many more reforms to make the Skoolie as comfortable as possible.

Take your time: When you set up your van, you want it to go fast. But it is important to take your time. A hasty step can cause many problems in use. Be patient with your troubles and do not forget to enjoy watching your van build up little by little before your eyes! Each successful step is a small victory to celebrate!

Keep an eye on the budget: One of the key points in planning is to manage your budget. It is difficult to estimate precisely upfront the total costs that will need to be incurred, but it is important to pay attention to them as you go.

Do not neglect the invisible parts (insulation, plating, etc.): Completing the layout of your van is a real personal accomplishment. Weeks of work coming to an end, a van in our image, that is the goal of such a project. Yes, but be careful not to neglect the invisible parts of the layout. In the end, everything that you don’t see turns out to be the most important!

Having a healthy base, installing good insulation, making clean openings… All these steps are essential. This avoids many problems down the road, such as excessive humidity or leaks, which are much more difficult to deal with after the fact, when all the equipment is installed.

Have fun with the finishes and decoration: Have fun with the finishes and decoration, choose materials that you like, an atmosphere in which you feel good. When travelling in such a small space, it is essential to feel at home, or almost!

Is it hard to convert a VW Transporter Shuttle to a camper?

Some would say that converting a van to a camper is not hard at all, as long as you have all the right equipment and a good plan to follow. If your intention is to convert the van into a home vehicle, it must have a good engine, offer great reliability and have spare parts that can be found easily.

To convert a van into a camper:

You must have a bed or a seat that can be converted into a bed.
You have to have some more furniture for storage; all rigidly anchored.
You must have a kitchen.
In addition, it is most advisable that the van is not too small and thus avoid space and comfort problems during the trip.

Among the most commonly used models to convert to a camper are the Renault Kangoo or Traffic and the Citroën Berlingo. But you always have the last word.

If you develop a complete transformation plan, it will be more effective —and economical— than if you equip it on the fly, since you can start from a complete scheme with well-defined spaces for everything.

In case you have a drawing skill, you can start with pencil and paper; Although also 3d software such as Blender, or Google’s SketchUp, can be useful, the latter is easier for beginners and with a few minutes of tutorials you can start designing.

What are the benefits of converting a VW Transporter Shuttle to a camper?

The benefits of converting a VW Transporter Shuttle to a camper is that VW vans are known to be practical, durable, safe and comfortable. Buying a Volkswagen vehicle is always a wise move. In both passenger cars and commercial vehicles, Volkswagen’s offer is very wide. If you want to enjoy every kilometre of the road and turn your daily routine into a new experience, you just have to buy a VW van.

All VW vans have unmistakable designs and are equipped with the latest in connectivity and the most advanced technologies. Besides, the new Volkswagen passenger cars and commercial vans make driving a safer experience for everyone.

If you are already convinced that what you want is a Volkswagen van, now you will only have to decide on the model, but we anticipate that it will not be easy at all. They have vans that provide space, quality and profitability as well as flexibility and safety.

Final thoughts

The Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle is a commercial vehicle of more than 65 years that is prepared to respond to all kinds of needs. A compact delivery vehicle that has managed to capture the needs of professionals with extraordinary precision.

Its lines and contours make the difference and make the Transporter a true benchmark in terms of technique and innovation in the commercial vehicle market. It has a high-quality interior and a large size in its cargo compartment. It offers extraordinary functionality and versatility.

What do you think? Is it worth it to convert a VW Transporter Shuttle to a camper? Let us know what your opinion or concerns are!

FAQ on Can you convert a VW Transporter Shuttle?

How hard is it to convert a van to a camper?

How much does it cost to transform a van into a camper?

Transforming a van into a camper costs from 2,300 dollars to around 6,000 dollars, depending on the materials used and the amount of equipment we want to have in our ‘portable home’.

How to homologate a van as a home?

In order to be approved as a camper or home, it is necessary to install at least the installation and legalization of a bed and a piece of furniture. With these two changes, we can now convert the van to a home van although we usually carry out many more reforms to make the van as comfortable as possible.

What is the best VW Transporter engine?

The VW Transporter 102 hp engine is not the most powerful in its class but offers excellent refinement and efficiency and this car is sold in the Euro 6 version which has no problem with pollution.

Are VW vans expensive to maintain?

VW vans are quite expensive to maintain, costing about $7800 for the first decade of life. Still, there are more costly brands on the market, such as Chevrolet, Jeep or Ford vans.

Why are VW vans so popular?

VW vans are popular because they are reliable, built from high-quality material, and have a good price for the amount of space that they offer!

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Can you convert a VW Transporter Shuttle?