I’m all about saving money when it comes to fitting out your first campervan build. The thing is, it’s very easy to create a cheap and cosy camper interior using things you usually already have at home.
Also, you don’t always know what you want, or need until you’ve tried it out first.
So, my advice, apart from the van electrical installation (which you should never scrimp on), is to try things out first with cheap options.
One you know what you want, by-all-means go ahead and replace it with a longer term option. But, make those initial decisions cheaply and save your money for other things 🙂
By-the-way, if you haven’t actually started your build yet, you might find my last article helpful.
Making your self-build campervan feel like home: Use household items for a cheap and cosy camper
Hey there, fellow van-build enthusiast!
If you’re diving into the exciting world of self-building a campervan, you probably already know how quickly those costs can add up.
But here’s a fun secret: you don’t always need to splash out on pricey, purpose-made gear. Sometimes, the best solutions come from the everyday items sitting right inside your house.
Let’s have a chat about some clever ways to use household items for a cheap and cosy camper — making it comfy, functional, and uniquely yours without breaking the bank.
1. Clever storage with plastic containers and shoe organisers
Organisation is key in a small space, right? Instead of buying expensive campervan storage bins, raid your kitchen cupboards and drawers:
- Plastic Containers: Use clear, stackable containers for dry goods like pasta, rice, and snacks. They keep everything tidy and moisture-free.
- Shoe Organisers: Those hanging fabric shoe organizers aren’t just for shoes! Hang one on a cabinet door, or wall to store toiletries, utensils, or even small tools. Each pocket makes stuff accessible and saves precious counter space.
2. DIY curtains with old bedsheets or tablecloths
Privacy and light-blocking don’t have to come from speciality campervan curtains:
- Have you got any old bedsheets, curtains, or even a vibrant tablecloth? Cut them to size, hem the edges if you like, and attach with curtain hooks, velcro, or even magnetic strips.
- These style of curtains add a personal touch, and make your campervan feel ‘homey’ without the cost of custom fabrics.
3. Repurpose plastic bottles for water storage, or as organisers
Plastic bottles are surprisingly versatile in campervan life!
- With small bottles, you can cut off the bottoms, to create scoops, or funnel attachments.
- Use cleaned, large bottles to store fresh water; just make sure to clean them regularly.
- With a bit of cutting and attaching, you can create hanging organisers for plants, or utensils, etc.
4. Use old towels and bath mats for comfort and cushioning
Comfort and general cushioning go hand-in-hand on the road:
- Old towels, or bath mats make great padding for seats, etc.
- You can use old bath mats as make-shift rugs, or door mats.
5. Kitchen hacks: Mason jars and ice cube trays
- Use mason jars for everything from food storage, to holding utensils, or even as drinking glasses.
- Ice cube trays can be repurposed as organizers for small screws, nuts, bolts, spices, or even jewellery.
- Those small plastic, lidded containers make great utensil storage too.
6. Magnetic strips for tool storage
Instead of buying special tool racks, attach magnetic strips (you can salvage these from old fridge magnets, or purchase inexpensive ones) to your van walls, or cabinet doors to keep tools and metal utensils neatly in place.
Wrapping Up
Building and outfitting your cheap and cosy campervan is a wonderful chance to flex your creativity. Household items offer fantastic cost-effective, practical, and personal ways to make your van cosy and efficient. Plus, there’s something deeply satisfying about seeing everyday things get a new lease on life in your adventure-mobile!
What household hacks have you tried, or are curious about for your build? Share your tips, or questions below — let’s keep the van-building community buzzing with ideas!
Safe travels and happy building! 🚐✨
As a full-time carer, I’m not a ‘true’ vanlifer! But, I do spend a lot of my free-time travelling to and staying in different towns and villages around the UK. I enjoy the freedom and control that staying in my van gives me, and I want to share that experience with anyone else who’s thinking about giving it a go.
