Researching which parts, supplies, and accessories are needed for a van conversion takes a lot of time. Knowing what insulation and wiring to use, which appliances to purchase, and what tools are needed can be a little overwhelming. So, I made this van conversion parts and supplies list to help you out! It contains everything you need to convert a van into a beautiful campervan. It should save you a huge amount of time on your van conversion, so you can get your campervan built and finally set off on the adventure of a lifetime! 🏄♂️🚐⛰️🧗♂️🚴♂️.
I'm Shane, the author of The Van Conversion Newsletter, the van conversion instructor at Udemy, and the proud owner of a beautiful self-build campervan called Beans. So let's jump in and have a look at what parts are needed for a van conversion!
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Index
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Campervan Solar Kit ☀️
A campervan solar kit is essential; infinite free power from the sun!
Related Reading: Campervan Solar System
 | Securing the solar cables on the roof |
 | Connecting solar panels & solar charge controller |
 | Passing solar cables through the roof |
 | Protect the Solar Charge Controller from surge |
| Protect the rest of the electrical system from surge |
Note: Here is the 200 watt solar kit if you want a smaller setup.
Split Charge Relay Kit ➕
A split charge relay kit allows you to charge up your leisure batteries while you drive around in your van.
Related Reading: Wiring a Split Charge Relay
 | One to protect the battery charger, one to protect the rest of the electrical system |
Note: Whilst a DC to DC battery charger is preferable (and necessary if you have a lithium battery), I understand it is a little expensive! As a cheaper alternative, you could get a Durite split charge relay kit instead. However given the closeness in price and massive difference in performance, I still highly recommend getting the 60a DC to DC battery charger.
Shore Power Kit ⚓
Shore power allows you to hook up your van at a campsite and charge up!
Related Reading: Campervan Electric Hook Up
 | Socket in the side of your van to accept mains electricity |
 | Connect to mains electric hook up at a campsite |
 | Protect your campervan electrical system in case of fault |
 | Protect the rest of the electrical system from surge |
Campervan Leisure Battery Kit 🔋
A campervan leisure battery kit forms the backbone of any campervan electrical system.
Related Reading: Campervan leisure batteries
 | Common connection point for positive and negative cables |
 | Leisure battery kill switch |
 | Protects the leisure battery in case of surge |
 | For monitoring the levels/health of your leisure batteries |
 | Leisure battery terminal connectors For connecting cable to your leisure battery |
Note: Whilst a lithium leisure battery is preferable, I understand it is rather expensive! As a cheaper alternative, you could get a 200Ah AGM battery instead.
Van Inverter Kit 🔀
A van inverter kit converts 12v to 110v/240v. If you want plug sockets inside your van, an inverter is a necessity.
Related Reading: Campervan inverters
| Kill switch for the inverter |
 | Fuse to protect the inverter (175a fuse if using a 1000W Inverter) |
 | |
 | To wire up plug outlets in your van; an outlet is connected to the inverter with a plug head |
Note: Here is the 1000W pure sine inverter if you want a smaller setup.
Campervan Fan 💨
A campervan fan is another necessity; both for staying cool, and for extracting noxious air when you are cooking.
Related Reading: Campervan roof vent
 | For sealing the fan on the roof |
Note: The Maxxair Maxxfan Deluxe is the most popular campervan fan for a reason - it's the best on the market. It is quiet, has 10 speeds, and can be used when its raining. However it is expensive. As a cheaper alternative, you could get the 2012 campervan roof vent.
Campervan fridge 🥒
Another campervan essential. Somewhere to store your vegetables and freeze your ice cream! Related Reading: Best campervan fridges
Note: The Dometic CRX CoolMatic is considered one of the best 12v compressor fridges on the market. However, it is pricey. You can find cheaper 12v fridges on Amazon like this one (note it doesn't have a freezer).
12v Campervan Lights 💡
Van conversions will typically be kitted out with a mix puck lights and LED strip lights.
Related Reading: Wiring 12v Campervan Lights
 | LED Side lamps w/ USB charger Useful 12v LED lamp for the bedside and kitchen |
 | 12v LED lights for the roof; I recommend 6-8 lights |
 | To dim the puck lights in the ceiling |