Van life has become popular for families looking to explore the open road and create unforgettable memories. Converting a van for family travel is a practical solution for vacations and an adventurous way to live.

At Mango Vans we specialize in transforming ordinary cargo vans into extraordinary homes on wheels. Our expert tips and tricks will help you design a van conversion that meets your family's needs. We'll cover everything from choosing the right van to creating cozy sleeping arrangements and maximizing storage space. By the end of this guide, you'll be well on your way to starting your van life journey.

Join us as we dive into converting a van for family travel. With Mango Vans, you'll discover how to make the most out of your mobile living space, ensuring every road trip is comfortable, enjoyable, and full of adventure. Let’s explore the endless possibilities that van life has to offer!

Choosing the Right Van

The first step is choosing the right vehicle. It's important to consider factors such as size, brand, and budget. Here are some popular choices that many families find suitable:

Ram Promasters: Ram Promasters are known for their spacious interiors and versatility. Their wide body allows for more living and storage space, making them ideal for larger families or those who want extra room for activities and amenities.

Ford Transits: Ford Transits offer a variety of models with different roof heights and lengths, giving you the flexibility to choose one that fits your specific needs. They are also known for their reliability and easy maintenance.

Mercedes Sprinters: Mercedes Sprinters are a top choice for luxury van conversions. They provide a smooth ride, advanced safety features, and a robust build. The Sprinter is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a high-end option that offers comfort and style.

Factors to Consider: Ensure the van is large enough to accommodate your family comfortably, considering the number of seats, sleeping areas, and storage capacity. Set a realistic budget that includes the cost of the van, the conversion process, and maintenance and fuel costs. How you plan to use the van—whether for weekend getaways or long summer vacations—as your usage will influence the type of van and the features you need.

Visit Mango Vans for expert advice on choosing the best vehicle for your van life journey. Our team is ready to help you hit the road in style and comfort!

The Perfect Sleeping Arrangements

A good night's sleep is essential, especially on the road. Designing comfortable and practical sleeping arrangements in your van is crucial for a successful family travel experience. Here are some tips and options to consider:

Bunk Beds: Bunk beds are popular for families, especially those with kids. They maximize vertical space and can be customized to fit your van's dimensions. Bunk beds can also add a fun, cozy element for children, making bedtime an adventure.

Fold-Out Beds: Fold-out beds/Murphy beds are excellent for saving space during the day. These beds can be stowed away providing extra room for daily activities. Many fold-out beds can be easily integrated into seating areas or storage units.

Hammocks: For families looking for a unique and flexible sleeping solution, hammocks are a great option. They are easy to set up and take down, and can be stored compactly when not in use. Hammocks can be hung inside or outside the van, offering a versatile sleeping arrangement.

Maximizing Space and Comfort: Invest in high-quality, custom-fit mattresses like memory foam or latex for support and durability. Install blackout curtains or shades to create a dark, restful sleeping environment. Additionally, ensure your van has adequate ventilation options, such as roof vents, windows, or fans, to keep the air fresh and cool for a comfortable sleep.

Check out Mango Vans’ custom sleeping solutions to create the perfect sleep setup for your family. Our expert team can help you design and install comfortable and space-efficient beds, ensuring everyone gets a good night's sleep on the road.

Smart Storage Solutions

Efficient storage is key to a successful van conversion, especially when traveling with family. Here are some smart storage solutions to help you maximize space and keep everything organized:

Under-Bed Storage: Drawers, bins, or slide-out compartments can hold clothes, shoes, toys, and other essentials. This keeps items out of sight but easily accessible.

Ceiling Racks: Another effective way to add storage without sacrificing floor space to store lightweight items such as blankets, pillows, and camping gear. Just ensure they are securely fastened to handle the bumps of the road.

Modular Cabinets: Customizable storage solutions that fit any space in your van. Can be configured to store kitchen supplies, food, tools, or personal items.

Tips for Organizing Kids’ Belongings: Use different colored bins or labels for each child's belongings. Install toy nets or hammocks on the ceiling to store stuffed animals, balls, and other lightweight toys. Additionally, use foldable or multi-purpose furniture that doubles as storage.

Maximizing Storage Space: Install hooks and racks on walls or the back of doors to hang coats, hats, bags, and kitchen utensils. Use magnetic strips to hold metal items like knives, tools, and small kitchen gadgets. Store bulky items in vacuum-sealed bags to save space.

Explore Mango Vans for tailored storage solutions that fit your family's lifestyle. Our expert team can design and install innovative storage options to keep your van organized and efficient, making your travels stress-free and enjoyable.

Creating a Functional Kitchen Space

A well-equipped kitchen is a game-changer when living the van life. Here are some essential tips for designing a functional kitchen space in your camper van:

Essential Kitchen Features: A well-equipped van kitchen should include a stove, fridge, and sink for optimal functionality. An inbuilt stove or compact, dual-burner portable stove that can be stored easily when not in use. The fridge can also be built in, a compact refrigerator or cooler-style model. A small sink with a built-in cover can double as a countertop when not in use. 

Space-Saving Tips for Kitchen Items: Use collapsible kitchenware like bowls, colanders, and measuring cups to save space and make storage easier. Install a magnetic spice rack to keep your spices organized and accessible. Additionally, use drawer organizers to keep utensils, cutlery, and small kitchen tools tidy.

Creating a Versatile Cooking Area: Install slide-out or foldable countertops to increase your prep space when needed. Designate multipurpose surfaces, such as a cutting board that fits over the sink or a stovetop cover that doubles as a prep area. Utilize vertical storage with hanging racks or hooks to store pots, pans, and other cookware.

Consult with Mango Vans for custom kitchen designs that fit your van's layout and cooking style. Our experts can help you create a practical and efficient kitchen space, ensuring you can enjoy delicious meals on the road without compromising on comfort and convenience.

Ensuring Safety and Comfort

Safety and comfort are paramount when living and traveling in a van, especially with a family. Ensuring your van has the right features can make your journeys stress-free and enjoyable. Here are some essential tips to ensure both safety and comfort on the road:

Safety Features: Ensure all seats are equipped with properly installed seat belts, prioritizing safety, especially for young children. Install child locks on doors and cabinets to prevent accidents. Always have at least one fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location, preferably near the kitchen or exit, and keep a well-stocked first aid kit on board.

Climate Control Solutions: Proper insulation helps maintain a comfortable temperature inside the van, regardless of the weather, while also reducing noise and increasing energy efficiency. Install roof vents or portable fans to improve air circulation and prevent condensation, keeping the interior cool during hot days. For extreme temperatures, consider portable air conditioners or heaters to ensure a comfortable living environment year-round.

Maintaining Hygiene and Cleanliness: A portable toilet with odor control and easy waste disposal is a convenient, sanitary option for your van. Portable, built-in, or outdoor showers help maintain hygiene on the road. Keep essential cleaning supplies, such as wipes, disinfectants, and trash bags, to maintain a clean and healthy living space.

Contact Mango Vans for safety enhancements and comfort upgrades tailored to your family’s needs. Our expert team can help you equip your van with the necessary features to ensure safe and comfortable travels, making every journey a pleasant experience.

Entertainment and Activities

Keeping everyone entertained during long drives and downtime is crucial for a happy van life experience. With thoughtful planning, your van can become a hub of fun and relaxation. Here are some ideas to incorporate entertainment and activities into your camper van:

Portable Games and Movies: Stock up on compact, travel-friendly games like card games, magnetic board games, and puzzles to keep kids entertained during long drives or rainy days. Install a portable DVD player or tablet holder for watching movies and shows, and download content in advance to avoid relying on internet connections.

Storage Ideas for Entertainment Gear: Use small bins or shelves to store books and toys, keeping them within easy reach for kids. Install racks for sports gear like mountain bikes, scooters, or fishing rods to ensure everything has its place and stays organized.

Designing Multipurpose Spaces: Include a convertible table that serves as a dining area, workspace, or game table to maximize limited space. Create an outdoor living area with foldable chairs, a portable grill, and an awning to expand your living space and provide a perfect setting for outdoor activities.

Keeping Kids Entertained: Keep a small stash of craft supplies like coloring books, crayons, and stickers for hours of creative fun that are easy to store. Use interactive maps or travel journals to engage kids in the journey, allowing them to track routes, learn about new places, and document their experiences.

Discover how Mango Vans can help you transform your van into a fun-filled home on wheels. Our team can design and install entertainment and activity solutions tailored to your family’s needs, ensuring that every trip is packed with joy and excitement.

Tips for Living in a Van with Kids

Living in a van with kids can be a rewarding experience for the whole family. However, it requires thoughtful planning and creativity to ensure everyone stays happy and comfortable. Here are some tips to make van life with kids enjoyable and manageable:

Keeping a Routine and Staying Organized: Maintaining a routine helps kids feel secure and provides structure to their days. Establish regular times for meals, activities, and bedtime. Use a calendar or a daily schedule to keep track of your plans.

Staying organized is crucial in a small space. Designate specific spots for toys, clothes, and other belongings to avoid clutter. Encourage kids to help with tidying up and organizing their things.

Finding Kid-Friendly Destinations and Activities: Research and plan stops at destinations that offer kid-friendly attractions and activities. National parks, museums, and zoos are great places for family fun. Look for campgrounds with playgrounds, swimming pools, and other amenities that cater to children.

Involve your kids in planning the trip. Let them choose some of the activities or places to visit. This makes the journey exciting and teaches them valuable planning and decision-making skills.

Creating a Comfortable Living Environment: Make your van feel like home by adding personal touches that make the space cozy and inviting. Let your kids decorate their sleeping areas with their favorite bedding, stuffed animals, and artwork.

Engaging Kids in Outdoor Activities: Encourage your kids to spend time outdoors and explore nature. Bring along bikes, scooters, or sports equipment to keep them active. Plan hikes, beach days, and other outdoor adventures that allow them to burn off energy and appreciate the natural world.

Get van conversion advice from Mango Vans. Our expert team can help you create a family-friendly van that meets all your needs, ensuring your adventures are safe, comfortable, and full of fun. Contact us today to start your family’s van life journey!

Embark on Your Family Adventure

Converting a van for family travel opens up a world of adventure and freedom, allowing you to explore new places while enjoying the comforts of home. From choosing the right van and designing comfortable sleeping arrangements to incorporating smart storage solutions and creating a functional kitchen, each step is crucial for a successful van life experience. Ensuring safety and planning your journey thoughtfully further enhance your travels, making them enjoyable and stress-free.

Living in a van with kids adds another layer of excitement and challenge, but with careful planning and organization, it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. By creating a comfortable living environment, choosing kid-friendly destinations, and engaging in outdoor activities, you can make every moment on the road memorable for your family.

At Mango Vans, we're here to help you every step of the way. Whether you're just starting or looking to upgrade your current setup, our expert team can provide the services you need to make your van life dreams a reality.

Ready to start your van life journey? Contact Mango Vans today to explore our custom van conversion solutions. Let us help you create the perfect home on wheels for your family’s adventures. Hit the road with confidence and enjoy the endless possibilities of van life!