Four tips to transform your car into a car camper in no time
Whether it’s for a weekend away, a music festival or months on the road, many savvy people manage to pack a lot of comfort into their cars.We brought you #VanLife - The backpacker's life reimagined for the 21st century, our look at the people who trade a life lived in bricks-and-mortar for four wheels and freedom. Now we take a look at car camping.
Car camping isn’t about ornate cabinetry. Car camping isn’t always washed-out sunsets glowing through rear windows, neither. But it can be comfortable and practical, even when you drive a hatchback and you’re tired from a late night of festival revelry or a long day on the road.
To start with, all you really need is two key things: a comfy camp mattress, and a couple of nifty storage solutions.
Step 1: Consider the car you’re working with
Each car is different so keep in mind that what would work in a Toyota Hilux may not suit a Mazda bubble. The best thing you can do: open the hatch and hatch a plan.
Step 2: Manage your expectations
Walnut timber inlays and custom joinery are above most people. So let’s think more about glue, nails, screws and plywood, and somehow sticking it all together. Go for it! Varnished plywood looks great, and keeping things square means it’s easier to put it all together.
Step 3: Be flexible
Step 4: Bed, meet storage
Pro tip: Don’t lose space behind panels. Use hinges if you can! They add another element to the build but if you’re already doing basic cutting, drilling and gluing, hinges should be easy-peasy.
For more more travelling inspiration, scroll through #campercar, #carconversion and #carcamping on Instagram. Happy camping!
Find your perfect car camper here on carsales.
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Related: 11 things you need to know about taking on the #vanlife
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