How can I make the most of the storage space in my campervan?

Well-thought-out space planning is key to creating efficient storage in a campervan. Make use of multifunctional furniture such as lift-up table beds or benches with built-in storage. Additional solutions include: Hanging shelves and nets: Ideal for light items and clothing.Narrow wall units: Make effective use of the vehicle’s height.Pull-out drawers under the bed: Perfect for bulky items.Organisers on the backs of the seats: For small items and travel essentials. These measures help to make the most of the available space and keep things tidy.

What type of insulation is best suited to my campervan?

Choosing the right insulation depends on your travel plans: Armaflex: A closed-cell foam that is particularly suitable for travel to colder regions.Natural insulation materials: Materials such as hemp, sheep’s wool or cork are environmentally friendly, but are less suitable in damp or cold climates as they can absorb moisture. It is also advisable to use sound-deadening mats underneath the insulation to reduce noise levels in the vehicle.

How can I fit out my campervan in an eco-friendly way?

A sustainable camper conversion takes both environmental and economic factors into account: Recycling materials: Use second-hand marketplaces to buy solar panels, furniture or insulation materials.Lightweight materials: Use materials such as poplar plywood to reduce the vehicle’s weight and lower fuel consumption.Energy efficiency: Install solar panels and LED lighting to minimise energy consumption. These measures help to reduce environmental impact and save costs in the long term.

Guides and tips

Camper conversion

Make your dream of a customised motorhome a reality: with a panel van conversion, you can design your mobile home exactly as you wish – TÜV NORD is here to guide you with expert advice and practical tips.

Camperausbau mit Solaranlage und moderner Innenausstattung

From panel van to campervan

The dream of owning your own motorhome often starts with a panel van. With the right know-how and careful planning, such a van can be converted into a comfortable and safe motorhome. TÜV NORD is here to guide you through the process with valuable tips and practical examples.

Planning and preparation

A successful campervan conversion starts with careful planning. Think about how you want to use the van: for weekend trips, longer journeys, or as a permanent home? Decide on your requirements for sleeping arrangements, the kitchen, storage space and self-sufficiency. A detailed conversion plan will help you save time and money.

Selecting the right box van

Popular models for converting into panel vans include the Citroën Jumper, Fiat Ducato and Mercedes Sprinter. Bear the following criteria in mind:

Size and weight: A compact vehicle is more manoeuvrable but offers less space.
Condition: A well-maintained panel van reduces the need for repairs.
Model: Popular models include the Citroën Jumper, Fiat Ducato and Mercedes Sprinter.

Please note that modifications to the vehicle may affect its registration.

Step-by-step guide to camper conversion

1

Insulation and cladding

Start by insulating the interior to regulate temperature and humidity. Next, clad the walls and ceiling with lightweight plywood or felt.

2

Electrics and lighting

Plan the electrical system carefully. Install a second battery, solar panels and an inverter in line with your energy requirements. Ensure compliance with VDE regulations.

3

Furniture making

Build furniture using lightweight, sturdy materials such as poplar plywood. Take into account ergonomic considerations and the available space. Secure all furniture components firmly to prevent them from moving whilst the vehicle is in motion.

4

Kitchen and water supply

Install a compact kitchen unit with cooking facilities, a sink and a fridge. For the water supply, you will need fresh water and waste water tanks, as well as a pump. Make sure you choose hygienic materials and opt for easy maintenance.

Technical requirements and safety aspects

To be registered as a motorhome, certain criteria must be met:

Minimum equipment: seating with a table, sleeping accommodation, cooking facilities and storage space.
Seat belts: Depending on the date of first registration, specific types of seat belts are required.
Materials: Use of flame-retardant and shatterproof materials.
Escape routes: At least two independent escape routes are required.

We recommend consulting one of our TÜV NORD experts at an early stage to ensure all requirements are met.

TÜV NORD approval and registration as a motorhome

Once the conversion is complete, the vehicle must be inspected by a certified TÜV NORD expert. This inspection will verify that all legal requirements have been met. Only then can the vehicle be registered as a motorhome. Please note that temporary fittings that can be easily removed will not result in the vehicle being recognised as a motorhome.

Avoid common mistakes during removal

To avoid problems, the following mistakes should be avoided:

Inadequate planning: Leads to space issues and rework.
Exceeding weight limits: Can result in legal consequences and safety risks.
Poor insulation: Leads to condensation and mould.
Lack of ventilation: Poor air quality and damp problems.
Improper electrical work: Fire hazard due to faulty installations.

Careful planning and execution are crucial to the success of the project.

Practical example: Ulf's panel van conversion

A good example is Ulf’s conversion project, in which he transformed his Citroën Jumper into a bespoke campervan with the support of TÜV NORD. The conversion included, amongst other things:

Insulation and windows: installation of roof and side windows.
Electrical work: Laying 40 metres of conduit for the wiring.
Furniture: Construction of overhead cupboards in a shabby chic style.
Costs: Total costs of approx. €37,000 including the purchase of the vehicle.

Ulf dreams of a compact, functional and low-maintenance motorhome for spontaneous weekend getaways and extended trips across Europe – occasionally even outside the summer months, such as spending New Year’s Eve in Scandinavia or going skiing in the Alps. What matters most to him is that it isn’t a DIY project, but a reliable vehicle with the latest technology and as little hassle as possible in day-to-day use.

His requirements at a glance:

Target users: Two adults + occasionally a grandchild
Destinations: Weekend trips within a 300 km radius, holidays in Europe and possibly Morocco
Weather: Must also be suitable for winter use – Scandinavia, skiing, New Year’s Eve
Transport: Space for bicycles, a kayak and winter sports equipment
Camping habits: Use of small campsites, self-sufficient camping for 3–4 days (no electricity connection required), ‘wild camping’ is the exception

Ulf values a well-thought-out layout, a comfortable interior even in bad weather, and ease of use – without modifications, without large tanks, without sensitive technology.

Traditional semi-integrated or fully integrated motorhomes were out of the question for Ulf – too big, too cumbersome, too technically complex. Many ready-built campervans also fell short on the details: uncomfortable seating, an unnecessary bathroom with a shower (which is hardly ever used in such small vehicles), and an overload of technology.

A van conversion tailored to his own specifications was the solution – “as much as necessary, as little as possible”.

Ulf opted for a Citroën Jumper L2H2 with 140 hp, a gross vehicle weight of 3.3 tonnes and Euro 6d emissions technology. The new vehicle cost around €25,000. Advantages:

Internal width of 1.87 m – ideal for a transverse bed
Compact exterior dimensions, but good use of space
New vehicle: no pre-existing issues, no maintenance backlog
Double bench seat at the front: three seats in total

Cost centre Amount

Base vehicle (new) €25,000

Conversion / Equipment €12,000

Total cost approx. €37,000

Rear transverse bed (130 × 185 cm)
Dining area behind the driver’s seat: two benches, each approx. 95 cm long, with fold-out bed function
Kitchen unit in the sliding door area
Storage space under the bed (e.g. for sports equipment), wall cupboards, heavy-duty drawers in the rear, heated drying cupboard

Insulation: Armaflex on walls and ceiling
Windows: Two roof windows, six side windows for light and an open feel
Energy supply:
- Solar system for self-sufficient electricity supply
- Diesel heating for winter use
- Compressor fridge
- 12 V and 230 V charge booster
- Inverter (12 V → 230 V)
Water: Two 12-litre jerrycans with submersible pump in the kitchen unit
Cooking: Gas hob using Campingaz (2.7 kg cylinder)
Toilet: Porta Potti under the bench seat – for emergencies or at night

The interior design concept follows clear design principles:

Design principle Implementation

Horizontal surfaces Natural wood

Vertical surfaces Coloured surfaces

Choice of materials Natural, homely feel

Shelving Flexible and easily accessible

Aim: A space where people enjoy spending time even in bad weather – cosy, practical and stripped back to the essentials.

Conclusion: Functional, compact, personal

Ulf’s van conversion is a striking example of how a customised motorhome doesn’t have to be expensive, oversized or overloaded with technology. With a clear focus, a well-thought-out layout and practical technology, the result is a campervan suitable for everyday use in all seasons – perfect for two people and ready for long trips.

What you should know

Frequently asked questions about camper conversions

Well-thought-out space planning is key to creating efficient storage in a campervan. Make use of multifunctional furniture such as lift-up table beds or benches with built-in storage. Additional solutions include:

Hanging shelves and nets: Ideal for light items and clothing.
Narrow wall units: Make effective use of the vehicle’s height.
Pull-out drawers under the bed: Perfect for bulky items.
Organisers on the backs of the seats: For small items and travel essentials.

These measures help to make the most of the available space and keep things tidy.

Choosing the right insulation depends on your travel plans:

Armaflex: A closed-cell foam that is particularly suitable for travel to colder regions.
Natural insulation materials: Materials such as hemp, sheep’s wool or cork are environmentally friendly, but are less suitable in damp or cold climates as they can absorb moisture.

It is also advisable to use sound-deadening mats underneath the insulation to reduce noise levels in the vehicle.

A sustainable camper conversion takes both environmental and economic factors into account:

Recycling materials: Use second-hand marketplaces to buy solar panels, furniture or insulation materials.
Lightweight materials: Use materials such as poplar plywood to reduce the vehicle’s weight and lower fuel consumption.
Energy efficiency: Install solar panels and LED lighting to minimise energy consumption.

These measures help to reduce environmental impact and save costs in the long term.