#vanlife

Images courtesy of earthhsipvans.com

 
#vanlife

by Sweiskloss
July 9, 2026
#vanlife currently has 18.9 million posts on Instagram with reels showing decked-out vans, inspiring images of life on the road, and copious amounts of van living advice.
Since the pandemic, the popularity of van life has risen as more people embrace the freedom and adventure that comes with living on the open road. In fact, this blog is inspired by SweisKloss designer Amanda Cavallo, who ditched the stationary office and hit the road in her converted SUV mobile home and office.

Camper vans are the smallest motorized type of recreation vehicle, often called Class B RVs. They are built using a standard van frame (like a Mercedes Sprinter or Ford Transit), and typically include a sleeping area, small kitchen, storage and bathroom. Camper vans are easier to drive and manage than larger traditional RVs and usually fit into normal parking spaces and campgrounds, contributing to their broad appeal.
Forget sleeping in the back seat and waking up with a crick in your neck! Camper vans have come a long way with designs featuring custom kitchens, spa-like showers and premium appliances. In such a confined area, creating luxurious spaces requires innovation and attention to detail to combine functionality with style. Whether you’re living your best life in your van full-time or just a weekend warrior, maximizing every inch of space is crucial. Clever design solutions like foldable furniture, hidden storage compartments for clothes and gear, and multi-functional spaces are a must. Van outfitters must also consider conditions such as weather (heated floors, insulation) and terrain (suspension systems rigged for rugged roads).
One of the greatest appeals of camper van life is the ability to go off-grid and travel where the road takes you. Accessories such as battery packs and solar panels allow you to enjoy the beauty of remote locations without compromising on necessities and comfort. Solar power can keep a van’s lights, refrigerator and devices running, while water storage tanks and waste systems ensure that essential needs are addressed.
From van conversions to ready-made models to custom-built one-of-a-kind camper vans, these designs make you feel at home wherever you are.

Rossmönster
Rossmönster’s camper vans are “four-season” tested for year-round adventures. Their insulation system ensures that campers stay comfortable “from -20 all the way to 100+ degrees,” according to their website. Radiant floor heating, spacious kitchens with dual induction burners and UV water filtration provide creature comforts, while Starlink adaptability and lithium battery banks ensure serviceability even in the backcountry. Their pre-built models are available to test drive nationwide. Check out their Skye Van, which was designed with “an aesthetic that mimics private yachts and designer homes” and features plush sleeping arrangements, a full kitchen, and a climate-controlled cabin. Redefining what comfort on the road looks like, the Havn’s sleeping area offers a 5” mattress, 270-degree windows and a skylight, blackout shades and a reading light (rossmonster.com).

Noovo Life
Offering three different models, Noovo’s Next camper van is designed to take you far off the beaten path in sleek comfort. Based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the rugged all-wheel drive features a serious engine with powerful torque and nine-speed transmission. Inside, the van offers luxe amenities and high-tech appliances and, according to the Robb Report, “turn[s] the van into something resembling a chic hotel room on wheels.” The spacious cabin includes an ample dining room and cooking area, bathroom with toilet and shower, and a roomy sleeping area. An AC ducted system, Starlink satellite internet, Garmin control hub, solar system and lithium battery pack allow you to camp off grid seamlessly. Get a closer look at their clean finishes and thoughtful materials at Noovo’s LA boutique. Enjoy on-the-road support from their network of repair shops and mobile technicians.

Nook Vans
Based in LA, Nook’s lightweight aluminum framing system is built to withstand extreme temperatures, moisture and constant movement, ensuring long lasting durability, extending the vehicle’s lifespan and improving fuel efficiency, according to their website. To create an operable and comfortable cabin, every Nook van comes equipped with a comprehensive insulation package, designed for all-season performance. Nook’s thoughtful ergonomically designed interiors are made with natural and recycled materials, such as aluminum, bamboo and wool, that ensure performance and sustainability. Versatile cabins can adapt to your travel experiences and needs with custom-fit storage bins, integrated mounting tracks and Velcro panels for flexible storage options. Open, side and swivel furniture can transform interior layouts. Their customizable Utility Spa offers a luxurious shower and bathroom separate from the rest of the interior. The waterproof room has convenient options such as a removable, no-smell, dry-flush toilet, and a heated recirculating shower system. And the space can transform into a storage area for outdoor gear if needed.

Brooklyn Camper Vans
Brooklyn Camper Vans specializes in customized high-end builds that combine off road ruggedness with thoughtful designs and high-tech amenities that elevate the travel experience from radiant floor heating and automated electromagnetic cabinet locks to home theater setup. The Elevate v2 camper van features an “elevator bed” that slides out the skylight onto the roof deck made from walkable solar panels. Personalize the interior with a selection of specialty wallpaper, paints and countertop materials. A recently sold Art Van v2 featured a finely crafted modern design with botanical wallpaper, scalloped cabinet faces and upper cabinet doors with backlit opaque screens. Additional amenities may include security cameras with infrared night vision, projector set up for entertainment, Roman clay walls or handmade Corian waterfall countertops.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz by Peace Vans
Any round up of camper vans would be remiss if it did not include the iconic Volkswagen ID. Buzz. Seattle-based Peace Vans offers three upfit kits to convert the EV microbus for van life. The Buzz.Box.Camper features a fully equipped kitchen, dining and entertainment area that can be converted into a bedroom. What it doesn’t have is a dedicated bathroom. Looking for something a little roomier? VW’s Grand California camper van has a dinette, bathroom, dedicated sleeping areas including a skylit bed in the back and lofted space above the front seats.

Other camper vans that will leave you dreaming of the open road:

  • The ultimate in bespoke design, Australian Hutch Campers builds one-of-a-kind camper vans to suit all travel and budget styles for holiday travelers, off-grid enthusiasts and full-time expedition travelers who don’t want to compromise on comfort or essentials.
  • Built in the UK, Crozier Campers’ bespoke vans offer unique solutions for any requirement – whether that’s a disability that needs a specialized feature or an outdoor sports enthusiast requiring a build tailored to an active lifestyle.
  • Passionate about sustainability and environmental stewardship, EarthShip Vans’ customizable camper vans incorporate eco-friendly solutions in their builds including utilizing renewable energy sources, implementing efficient insulation and sourcing eco-conscious materials.
  • Known for mixing true 4x4 off-road capability with high-end luxury, the Land Rover Defender Camper van built by Brown Bird & Co in the UK features a pop-top with ceiling and reading lights for a comfortable sleeping area, kitchen with oak worktops, camel colored leather sofa that can be converted to an additional bed, generous storage with brass door handles and soft close hinges.
  • Compact but cute, Nissan’s My Room van lacks a kitchen and bathroom but does feature a sleek wood-lined interior cabin with retractable back bench, sliding table and fold-up Murphy bed.
“I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on the list” – Susan Sontag
 
Laura McMahon