Guides
What We Have Learned Building Vans
23 guides from the shop floor. Costs, layouts, power, insurance, and the questions owners only think to ask afterwards.
Wheelchair Accessible Vans: Essential Features for Safer and More Comfortable Mobility
Compare ramps, lifts, entry layouts, securement, comfort, costs, and grants to choose safer wheelchair accessible vans.
September 16, 2026
Planning a Passenger Van Conversion for Travel, Group Transport, or Business Use
A conversion gets expensive when you plan it out of order. Here's how to plan a passenger van conversion for travel, group transport, or business.
September 16, 2026
Best Off-Grid Camper Van Upgrades (That Are Actually Worth It)
Looking to go off-grid in your camper van? These 10 must-have upgrades are actually worth it — from solar power to Starlink and everything in between.
April 2, 2025
How to Insure a Camper Van in 2025: Understanding RVIA Certification's Impact on Your Coverage
Confused about camper van insurance in 2025? Learn how RVIA certification affects coverage, what policies you need, and how to protect your investment on the road.
March 5, 2025
RVIA Certification: Your Essential Gateway to Premier Campgrounds and Quality Assurance
What RVIA certified means and why the RVIA seal matters — campground access, insurance & quality assurance for your custom camper van conversion.
February 20, 2025
Best Camper Van Layouts for Solo Travelers, Couples & Families: Optimize Your Space for Every Adventure
Explore the best camper van layouts and floor plan designs for van life — bed styles, kitchens, bathrooms & seating to help you plan your custom build.
February 13, 2025
10 Hidden Gems for Van Life Adventures You’ve Never Thought About
Discover 10 hidden gems perfect for van life adventures! From the Driftless Area in Wisconsin to Caprock Canyons in Texas, explore unique destinations with stunning views, peaceful retreats, and practical amenities for camper vans. Start planning your journey now!
December 20, 2024
How Much Does a Custom Camper Van Build Cost in 2025? Complete Breakdown & Pricing Guide
How much does a custom camper van cost in 2025? Full pricing by base van, interior, electrical & off-grid features, from budget builds to a luxury Sprinter.
December 2, 2024
What Happens When You Give a Van Life Newbie the Keys to a Fully Custom Van?
Curious about van life? Discover what happens when a van life newbie takes the wheel of a fully custom camper van. From first-night jitters to newfound freedom, explore the journey and learn why a custom van is perfect for every adventurer.
September 4, 2024
What You Didn't Know About Van Life: Myths, Truths, and Surprises
Discover the truth about van life! Uncover common myths, surprising facts, and the real experiences behind the #VanLife movement. Whether you're considering a custom camper van or just curious about life on the road, this blog has the answers you're looking for.
September 4, 2024
Top 10 Vanlife Travel Destinations of 2024
As the vanlife movement continues to gain momentum, 2024 is shaping up to be an extraordinary year for those ready to hit the road and embrace the freedom of the open highway. Whether you're a seasoned vanlifer or new to the scene, these top 10 vanlife travel destinations should be on your radar.
July 30, 2024
How to Choose Between a New or Used Van for Your Conversion
When it comes to embarking on the van life journey, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the right base vehicle for your custom camper van conversion. Whether you’re dreaming of a brand-new, pristine vehicle or a budget-friendly used van, each option has its unique advantages.
July 24, 2024
What Wheelbase is Best for Van Life?
Explore the difference between 144 and 170 (short vs long) wheelbases on Mercedes Sprinter Vans for van life. Which one will you choose?
June 21, 2024
The Most Important Feature in Any Custom Camper Van
Discover the importance of the bed in a custom camper van with Papago Vans. Explore diverse bed options like single bunk beds, dinette-style beds, bunk beds, and innovative elevator beds. Elevate your van life experience with comfort, versatility, and expert guidance.
March 25, 2024
The Best Cooling Options for Custom Camper Vans
Explore the best cooling solutions for your custom camper van adventures in Arizona. Learn about Dometic RTX2000 AC unit, MaxxAir fan, and Fresair S8 swamp cooler, their pros and cons, and when and where to use them. Contact Papago Vans to build your dream camper van!
February 19, 2024
Is the Ram ProMaster the Best Van For Tall People?
At 86 inches of interior height, the Ram ProMaster beats the Transit and Sprinter. Here is the best van for tall people, by the numbers.
August 22, 2023
Where Can I Park My Campervan? An Introduction to iOverlander
iOverlander maps legal camping and parking spots from other van lifers, and it works offline. Here is where to park a campervan on the road.
July 24, 2023
AGM Vs Lithium Batteries for Van Life
Discover the key differences between AGM and Lithium batteries for campervan conversions. Explore factors like cost, usable energy, weight, temperature range, and warranty to make an informed decision. Choose the best battery for your van life adventure.
July 11, 2023
Working with a Van Conversion Company
If you are like everyone else that is considering #vanlife, you are probably searching the depths of the internet to find inspiration for your own build. You may have most of your questions answered but almost all of you have at least a few questions about the build itself or the entire process.
June 21, 2023
The Best Awning for Vanlife
Thinking about van life, or maybe you already have a van conversion and need some extra shade? The Fiamma F65 Eagle automatic legless awning is a must-have. With a simple push-button operation, wind-deflective safety system, and adjustable arms, you can easily stay cool wherever you park.
June 21, 2023
How to Prevent Squeaks in a Campervan
Picture this, everything you've ever wanted has come to fruition at the hands of your van builders! Full of joy and excitement, you drive your new van off the lot and into your first adventure. 15 minutes pass, and you go from very happy to quite annoyed and upset … About what, you might ask?
June 21, 2023
6 Reasons to Use Havelock Wool in a Van Conversion
Why Havelock wool is the best natural van insulation — R-value, moisture control & how much you need for your camper van conversion. A Papago Vans guide.
June 21, 2023
Best Campervan Toilets
Dry flush runs about $800, composting about $1,000, cassette $80 to $300. Compare cost, odor and cleanup to pick the best campervan toilet.
June 5, 2023