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Van Conversion

Van build guides, insulation, flooring, walls, and conversion tips

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RV Roof Solar Panel Mounting

RV Roof Solar Panel Mounting

RV roof solar panel mounting comes down to three decisions: Z-brackets (fixed, cheap, low-profile) vs tilt mounts (15–25% more harvest) vs adhesive (no-drill, lower load capacity). For most van and RV builds, stainless Z-brackets with Dicor

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Induction vs Propane Vanlife

Induction vs Propane Vanlife

TL;DR: Induction wins on safety and simplicity if you have the solar/battery capacity. Propane wins on off-grid range and cold-weather reliability. Most serious van builds end up using both. This guide breaks down the real costs, tradeoffs,

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Dometic 3 Way Fridge

Dometic 3 Way Fridge

TL;DR: A Dometic 3 way fridge runs on 12V, 120V AC, or propane — making it uniquely flexible for boondocking and campground use. But compressor fridges have largely surpassed them on efficiency and cooling performance. This guide explains w

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
3 Best Van Roof Vent Fans

3 Best Van Roof Vent Fans

TL;DR: A quality van roof vent fan transforms your build from stuffy box to comfortable home. Maxxair and Fan-Tastic Vent dominate the market. This guide breaks down what matters — CFM, thermostat control, rain sensors, and install depth —

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Camper Van Weatherproofing and Rust Prevention

Camper Van Weatherproofing and Rust Prevention

Camper van weatherproofing starts with sealing every penetration before moisture enters — not after. Priority order: roof penetrations (fan, solar, antenna), door seals, window edges, then underbody rust treatment. Use self-leveling lap sea

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Vanlife Flooring Installation

Vanlife Flooring Installation

TL;DR: Vanlife flooring installation order: insulation layer → vapor barrier → subfloor (6mm ply) → finish floor. Vinyl plank (LVP) is the best finish material for most van builds — waterproof, easy to cut, handles temperature expansion, an

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Vanlife Bed Mattress

Vanlife Bed Mattress

TL;DR: The best vanlife bed mattress balances thickness (4"–6" sweet spot for most platforms), foam density (2.0+ lb/ft³ for durability), and moisture resistance. Memory foam sleeps hotter in a van; latex and hybrid foam breathe better. Mea

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
10 Best Roof Racks for Camper Van: Comparison Guide 2026

10 Best Roof Racks for Camper Van: Comparison Guide 2026

TL;DR: The best roof rack for a camper van balances payload capacity, solar panel mounting, aerodynamic drag, and height clearance. Steel racks carry more but add weight and rust risk; aluminum is lighter and corrosion-proof but costs more.

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Composting Toilet Vanlife Comparison

Composting Toilet Vanlife Comparison

TL;DR: Composting toilets for vanlife have gone mainstream — but the differences between models matter a lot when you're living in a small space. This comparison covers Nature's Head, Air Head, Separett, and budget options so you can pick t

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
Vanlife Insulation Guide

Vanlife Insulation Guide

TL;DR: Vanlife insulation is the single biggest factor in van comfort — and the one most builders cheap out on. This guide breaks down 3M Thinsulate, spray foam, Havelock wool, and rigid foam so you pick the right combo for your climate, bu

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
7 Best 12V Fan for Camper Van

7 Best 12V Fan for Camper Van

TL;DR: A good 12V fan camper van keeps you cool without draining your battery flat. This listicle covers the 7 best options by category — roof vent fans, desk fans, clip fans, and ceiling fans — with real power draw numbers and honest recom

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026
How to Build a Vanlife Water System

How to Build a Vanlife Water System

TL;DR: A vanlife water system doesn't have to be complicated — fresh tank, pump, filter, faucet, grey tank. This tutorial walks you through sizing, parts, plumbing, and the mistakes that flood vans. Budget options included.

Riley VanWood May 4, 2026