Our Van Build Planning for Full-Time Van Life

It might sound early, but for us, van build planning is all about excitement and preparation. By August 2026, this van will be our home. We’ll be living, working, and traveling full-time in it and eventually, raising a family on the road.

This isn’t just about building a van. It’s about creating the next chapter of our lives. Our honeymoon will be van life, our adventures will start from our driveway, and our future memories will all be made inside this tiny home on wheels.

And of course, it won’t just be me and Reece our cat Ruckus will be moving in too.

The Pinterest Problem: Too Much Inspiration, Not Enough Clarity

If you are planning a van build, you probably know the feeling. Instagram folders are packed with “must-have” ideas. Pinterest boards are overflowing with dream layouts. YouTube is full of videos, all giving different advice.

It is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. What works for one couple may not work for us, especially when we are factoring in working full-time on the road, a cat, and one day a baby. That is why we are using this time to really filter out what is practical versus what just looks good on a reel.

Setting a Van Build Budget

One of the first things we have learned is that everything adds up quickly. Solar systems, electrics, water tanks, tiles, even those gorgeous rattan cupboard doors you see everywhere, it all costs.

We don’t have a fixed budget yet, but we know where our priorities are.

Comfort, like a good mattress (I can’t live without my home comforts and refuse to scrimp on these!) cozy seating, plenty of storage, natural light, space for Ruckus.

Safety, with reliable electrics, ventilation, and heating or cooling. Durability, choosing materials that last.

The little extras can come later, but the basics need to be solid AF.

Van Build Essentials on Our List So Far

When you’re planning a van build, the list of things you need and want quickly grows! We’ve been jotting down everything we can think of and everything we find all in a trusty spreadsheet, yes I am a Google sheet geek!

Ventilation & Windows

• MaxxAir fan with dome and shade
• Side and door windows for airflow and light
• Water heater for those much-needed hot showers

Plumbing & Water

• Fresh and grey water tanks (80L underslung for waste)
• CBE fresh/waste water level gauge
• Tubing for bathroom and kitchen sink
• Shower tray and bathroom sink

Kitchen Plans

• Sink and hob cooker with cover
• Small fridge
• Tiles for backsplash
• Rattan cupboards and storage above the counters
• Clever storage: plate racks, spice rack, pan rack, cutlery organiser
• Air fryer + crockpot for easy cooking

Bathroom

• Toilet with hatch
• Shower door
• Simple tiles for easy cleaning

Living Space & Comfort

• 2×1 timber for kitchen carcass
• Mattress and seat cushions
• Curtains for the back of the van
• Throws, bedspreads, cushions
• Lagun swivel table leg system for a movable workspace
• Chairs and table for outdoor living

Electrics & Connectivity

• Full electrics system (to be planned carefully with my dad — “Handy Man Andy” to the rescue!)
• Reliable Wi-Fi setup for working remotely
• iPad holder on the wall for movie nights

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