How to convert an Astro van into a camper?

In this blog post, we will answer the following question: “How to convert an Astro van into a camper?” We will discuss the steps to convert an Astro van into a camper. We will talk about the essentials, storage options, and all the basic requirements, including solar panels for off-grid power.

How to convert an Astro van into a camper?

To convert an Astro van into a camper, you need to follow the steps described below.

• Remove the rear seats

• Clean and measure the area

• Design the layout

• Build the floor

• Build a bed

• Install solar panels

• Add a portable fridge

• Add a portable table

• Add a portable stove

• Add pantry drawers

• Add a portable sink

• Install a freshwater tank

• Build cabinets  

Remove the rear seats

• First, you will need to remove the rear seats in the Astros van. The Chevy Astro van camper has enough space, and it can be converted into a comfortable camper for two people. Retain the front passenger and driver’s seats and remove all the other items at the rear. Remove the floor mats and carpets if there are any.

Clean and measure the area

• The next step is to clean and measure the area. You can wash the flooring of the van and remove all the dirt and dust, if there are any. Once you are done with the cleaning process, you can go ahead and get the measurements of the van.

• With the help of a measuring tape, measure the length, width, and height. This will help you determine the available space to start the conversion process. Note down the measurements since they will come in handy in the next step.

Design a layout

• In the next step, you will be required to design the layout based on the measurements. While designing the layout, make sure to consider the space that is required for the camper bed and all the other amenities that you plan on having. 

• Consider all the essentials and try to keep it simple to use the available space best.

• Note down the measurements while designing the layout. Keep enough space for the bed and the other essentials.  

Build the floor

• The flooring of the camper is important and you will need to build a wooden floor. Use 2 by 4s and plywood to build the camper flooring. Cut the 2 by 4s according to the length and width of the flooring. Place the 2 by 4s horizontally and vertically by securing them to the flooring. Use a strong adhesive to complete this task.

• Next, you will need to cut plywood that is 2 inches thick according to the measurements of the floor. Cut the plywood into three parts and screw them onto the 2 by 4s. Be sure to keep a gap for the wheel well. Make sure that the measurements are right and that there is no gap while installing the plywood.

• You can also insulate the camper flooring with the help of sheep’s wool. Add the sheep’s wool in between the 2 by 4s before installing the plywood. Now, you will have a base to work on, and it will be easy to build a bed.

Build a bed

• A bed is the most important part of a camper and the best way to go about building a bed is by using wood. Build a bed frame with the help of 2 by 4s. Based on the measurements of the bed, you will be required to cut the 2 by 4s accordingly.

• Build a frame in the shape of a rectangular box. Cut plywood according to the size of the frame and add them to the frame with the help of screws. Cut a piece of plywood for the top of the bed frame and use hinges to secure it. Fix the hinges to the plywood first and add the plywood to the top with the help of the hinges.

• The space under the frame can be used for storage. This is an easy process, and you can make use of the space under the bed.

• Add a foam bed on top of the bed frame. You can get a customized bed according to the size, or you can easily add cushions. Build the bed against the wall of the van and add cushions at the rear.

Install solar panels

• You will need to have a source of power for your new camper. Installing solar panels is one of the best options. Solar panels are easy to install, and there is no need to bank onshore power. 400-watt solar panels are enough to keep you powered up and running.

• Follow the installation guide that arrives with the solar panels. Connect the panels to the inverter and the battery.

Add a portable fridge

• You will need a portable fridge to store all your food while camping. There are plenty of options that are available online. These portable fridges are easy to install and is takes up less space. Place the fridge on the ground in the camper and you should be all set.

Add a portable table

• You might not be able to build a dinette due to the limited space. It is also advised to keep enough space for storage options. Hence, a portable table will be the best option to consider. You can use this table to have your meals and transport the table outside to cook.

Add a portable stove

• To get your cooking done, you must use a portable stove. A portable stove will help you save on space, and it can be used outside to get your cooking done. Avoid cooking inside the Astro van since it can be dangerous. A butane stove is one of the best options to consider.

Add pantry drawers

• A camper will require enough storage space, especially to keep all your groceries and other kitchen items. You will also need to have space to store all the utensils.

• Pantry drawers are one of the best options to give you enough space. These are compact and can be installed with ease.

Add a portable sink

• Add a portable sink in the camper to wash and clean anything if required. There are plenty of options for portable sinks, and these can be found online.

Install a freshwater tank

• A 25-liter freshwater should be enough to serve the purpose. Connect the freshwater tank to a water pump near the sink. You can easily install these accessories at the rear of the Astro van, and they can be used outdoors. The Chevy Astro van has sliding doors that make it easier to work with.

Build cabinets

• Storage is the key in a camper; the more cabinets you have, the better the space. Use plywood and 2 by 4s to build cabinets with doors. All you need to do is build a frame in a rectangle and add plywood on each side. You can also build overhead cabinets and install them on the wall of the camper

• While building cabinets, make sure that you install doors with hinges. These cabinets can be used to store all your camping gear and other accessories.

Those were a few simple steps to convert an Astro van into a camper. Try to make use of the space that you have, and be sure to design the layout based on your preferences. Try to keep it small and simple. The essentials are the bed, water, and storage options. Try to keep portable items since they are easy to store and use accordingly.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have answered the following question: “How to convert an Astro van into a camper?” We have discussed the steps to convert an Astro van into a camper. We have talked about the essentials, storage options, and all the basic requirements, including solar panels for off-grid power.

Citations

Astro Safari Van Camper Conversion: Construction Update 1

2000 Astro Van

10 Chevy Astro Van Camper Conversions That Will Fuel Your Wanderlust

https://www.motor1.com/news/570970/chevy-astro-van-camper-conversion-video/

How I Turned my Chevy Astro Van into an Off-Road Camper

https://www.autoevolution.com/news/guy-turns-2003-chevy-astro-van-into-a-functional-camper-that-expands-to-the-outside-202710.html