VAN LIFE
VW T4
Our first van together and a complete rebuild.
THE BRIEF
We wanted a comfortable self sufficient home on wheels that can take us anywhere in any season. Simple, practical and built to last.
Full time off grid living
All weather capability
Fixed bed with lots of storage
Room to cook, work and relax
Shower and hot water
Reliable power and heating
BEFORE WE STARTED
An old work vehicle with a few challenges. Lots of potential and plenty of work ahead!
BUILD STAGES
01
STRIP OUT
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
02
INSULATION
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
03
ELECTRICS
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
04
PLUMBING
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
05
HEATING
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
06
FURNITURE
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
07
FINISHING TOUCHES
Removed everything back to the shell and prepared for insulation
WHAT WORKED
Fixed bed - super comfortable and always ready
Large water tank -plenty for offered stays
✓
Lithium battery system - reliable and efficient
✓
Diesel heater - water and quiet all winter
✓
Thoughtful storage - everything has a place
WHAT WE'D CHANGE
✕
Fixed bed - super comfortable and always ready
✕
Large water tank -plenty for offered stays
✕
Lithium battery system - reliable and efficient
✕
Diesel heater - water and quiet all winter
KEY SYSTEMS
ELECTRICAL
Lithium Batteries | Inverter | 12V System | 240V Power | USB Charging
WATER
Fresh Water Tank | Waste Water | Water Pump | Hot Water | Filtration
HEATING
Diesel Heater | Hot Water | Insulation | All-Season Setup
KITCHEN
Fridge | Hob | Sink | Fresh Water | Storage
SLEEPING
Lithium Batteries | Inverter | 12V System | 240V Power | USB Charging
STORAGE
Lithium Batteries | Inverter | 12V System | 240V Power | USB Charging
RELATED GUIDES
ELECTRICAL GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
INSULATION GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
HEATER GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
WATER GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
VAN KITCHEN GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
BUILD BASICS GUIDE
Everything you need to know about electrics, batteries and solar setups.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This build taught us so much of what matters when you live in a van. It's not about having the most, it's about building a space that works for you and your adventures. Every trip in this van reminds us of why we built it.