Custom Van Conversion vs RV

Full disclosure: Since I co-own a customized van conversion firm, I are likely to consider constructing a customized van is the best choice. There’s no proper or unsuitable reply to the query, however there are actually execs and cons. Let’s go over them collectively, then you definately resolve.

The van mannequin itself isn’t an element. What you must take into account is: 

1. Value 

2. Timeline

3. High quality

4. Certifications. 

5. AND MOST IMPORTANT: Stage of customization, in design, performance, and format. 

General, pre-manufactured conversions needs to be cheaper than customized builds. And in case your funds is restricted, it could be your selection.

However beware: in case you see value tags for so-called “high-end pre-manufactured fashions” which can be near the value as high-end customized conversions – reminiscent of which Drifter Van makes – try to be asking questions.

Like why would the costs so excessive for one thing in-built a collection? 

And why spend that a lot cash in case you nonetheless should compromise on what you’re getting?

In case you’re in a rush and wish to begin touring quickly, then shopping for a van from an RV dealership is certainly quicker than constructing a customized one. 

With a customized conversion, one made solely for you, the method can take a little bit of time: to supply the van, design the format, select your private options, and construct it. Realistically, this may take at least 3–4 months, probably longer relying on the builder’s backlog.

However as they are saying, high quality takes time.

Talking of high quality, this relies largely on the corporate you select.

Not all pre-manufactured RVs are low in high quality; some manufacturers do a superb job. Likewise, not each customized conversion is top-shelf: some aren’t solely poor high quality however really harmful.

Nonetheless, the general high quality of customized builds is increased – however provided that you’re employed with a severe firm.

Driftervans believes in and practices solely the very best high quality design, one thing that works ideally for you, the consumer. 

RVIA certification is a bit difficult, however right here’s a fast abstract:

RVIA means your construct meets sure security requirements, and that the builder is a member of the RVIA (sure, you change into licensed by becoming a member of the membership, not simply by constructing superb vans).

I’ve seen RVIA licensed conversions with good high quality and a few with horrible high quality. In order that little sticker? Take it with a grain of salt. 

Then again, I’ve seen non-certified conversions that ought to have had higher inspections, and nonetheless others constructed to a a lot increased commonplace than RVIA requires.

At Driftervans, for instance, our requirements are sometimes increased than RIVA’s, which is usually supposed for pre-manufactured vans with little customization. The reality is, RIVA’s standardization usually doesn’t supply sufficient flexibility for top finish or luxurious design.

Some campgrounds may ask for RVIA certification, however personally, I’ve by no means heard of a consumer being turned away due to it.

It’s normally simpler to get RV financing for RVIA licensed, pre-manufactured vans. However that doesn’t imply it’s inconceivable with customized builds. In case you work with a severe customized builder and never only a DIYer, financing continues to be doable.

At Drifter Vans, we work with a number of financing corporations that supply loans for the complete bundle, or simply the construct in case you already personal your van.

Right here’s the true cause why I consider in customized conversions, and once I say “customized,” I don’t imply selecting between two wall colours and calling it a day.

At Drifter Vans, we construct a whole van that’s designed solely you. Your wants. Your tastes. Your components. No two vans we construct are the identical. You inform us what you want, what you want, how you propose to make use of your van, and we make it occur. 

You don’t have to select from current layouts. We are able to adapt one in all our signature layouts to your measurement, way of life, or wants. 

In case you have the time, the funds, and in case you hate to compromise, why purchase a mannequin that’s sitting on lots, the identical as 1000’s of others? At Drifter Vans, we create a van that’s distinctive to you, and appears like residence.

At Drifter Vans for instance, we don’t simply ask if you’d like an air conditioner or a pull-out storage. We ask: what is going to you do together with your van?

In case you plan to boondock, you may want a bigger battery system to energy the A/C.

In case you’re working remotely, perhaps 5G isn’t sufficient, perhaps a set satellite tv for pc system is healthier or perhaps a cellular one, what about each?

At Drifter Vans, no matter your scenario is, we determine it out collectively. And if it’s doable, we’ll make it occur. 

To sum all of it up, in case you’re in a rush, have a smaller funds, and don’t want something particular, there’s nothing unsuitable with shopping for a pre-manufactured van.

However you probably have the time… if you’d like your van to really feel like an actual residence… if you’d like it to match your wants, and never another person’s concept of van life…

Go together with an actual customized builder. We advise you select Drifter Vans. However no matter your selection, dwelling on the street, whether or not full-time or weekends, is an expertise you’ll always remember!