Check out this tour of an 1999 Chevrolet Astro Van camper van! This van is completely DIY and includes our solution for a kitchen, bed, storage, electric via a solar awning and more! They didn’t have the thousands of dollars to spend on a van like a lot of the Van Lifer’s out there. So we worked hard and slowly put together our rad little get away on wheels.
Astro van camper with Solar Power
Since I’m a photographer, electricity was non-negotiable. The first step in our Astro van camper build was installing a 330-watt solar panel on heavy-duty sliders. This system powers everything inside while doubling as an awning for shade. Hooks along the edge make it easy to hang wet towels and surf gear after a long day.
To keep airflow steady, we added a MaxxAir fan that works as both intake and exhaust. For outdoor showers, we built a DIY solar shower using black PVC pipe. It holds five gallons, heats naturally in the sun, and works with a bike valve to create light pressure.
Small Van Kitchen Setup
Cooking on the road can be a challenge in a small Astro van camper, but we designed a kitchen that makes it easy.
- Shelving & storage: Bungee-secured shelves keep food, cookware, and gadgets in place.
- Cooktops: A Coleman propane stove plus an electric cooktop for sunny days when solar power is abundant.
- Water system: A 5-gallon jug paired with a USB-powered water pump provides running water on demand.
- Fridge: The Dometic CFX fridge/freezer sits on heavy-duty sliders for easy access and connects via Bluetooth to control temperatures from your phone.
- Sink & washing: A collapsible sink and compact soap setup keep dishes under control.
This kitchen lets us switch between propane and electric cooking, store enough food for long trips, and keep everything organized.
Inside the Van: Comfort and Storage
We wanted the Astro van camper conversion to feel cozy while still functional. The cedar-paneled ceiling with inset lights creates a warm atmosphere, while blackout curtains mounted on copper tubing provide privacy and insulation.
Other interior features include:
- A TV setup with phone connectivity for movies or video editing.
- A 170Ah lithium battery paired with a 2000-watt inverter, monitored by a Victron Bluetooth system.
- Shelving for books, gear, and personal items.
- Plants and family heirlooms for a personal touch.
- Rotating passenger seat for extra lounge space.
USB outlets throughout the van allow easy charging, while an electric blanket keeps us warm during colder nights.
Sleeping Setup: The “Magic Box” Bed
One of the biggest challenges in small van conversions is the bed. Instead of removing the factory bench seat, we kept it for safety (especially for my young daughter) and designed a custom hinged bed platform we call the “Magic Box.”
- By day, it works as a tabletop for eating or laptop use.
- By night, it flips down and locks into place, creating a stable bed platform.
- Wooden slats and dowels support our sleeping pads for comfort.
- Underneath, there’s space for bulky items like a pizza oven, tent, fishing gear, and camera cases.
This design gives us both safety and flexibility without losing storage.
Driving and Safety Features of the Astro Van Camper
Since the shelving blocks rear visibility, we installed a dual camera system—front and rear—for safe driving and reversing. When in reverse, the camera automatically switches to backup mode.
On the mechanical side, we gave the Astro van some much-needed upgrades:
- New shocks and brakes
- New oil pan
- Two-inch body lift from Journeys Off Road
- Regular maintenance to keep it road-ready
These updates keep the van reliable whether we’re cruising highways or exploring rougher backroads.
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3.5
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3.5
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3.5
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3.5
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$107.97
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$62.89
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$108.74
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$28.99
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Life on the Road
From California to Utah, this Astro van camper conversion has been our home on wheels. We’ve cooked meals, charged gear, taken hot solar showers, and slept comfortably under the stars. Every part of this build was designed to balance functionality, affordability, and adventure.
For us, our Astro Van camper is more than just travel—it’s about freedom, creativity, and living simply. A $3,000 DIY camper conversion might not be luxurious, but it proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to build a cozy, functional rig for the road.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering a DIY van build, don’t overlook smaller, affordable vehicles like the Chevy Astro van. With smart planning and a bit of work, you can create a camper that’s durable, comfortable, and unique to your lifestyle.
Whether you’re chasing waves, shooting photos, or just looking for freedom on four wheels, a van like this shows that home can be wherever you park it.
Links to what’s inside
(We make money off of the amazon affiliate links below )
- Small Magnets for kitchen doors – https://amzn.to/3wOQDw6 (Amazon)
- MAXXAIR fan – https://amzn.to/4aemfto (Amazon)
- Dometic Fridge – https://amzn.to/4hLOEui (Amazon)
- Volway digital mirror – https://amzn.to/4ci3B64 (Amazon)
- Dash Cam hardwire kit – https://amzn.to/3TBjKw1 (Amazon)
- Electric Travel Kettle – https://amzn.to/3VltmMy (Amazon)
- Automatic Drinking Water Pump – https://amzn.to/3vdUmmI (Amazon)
- Folding Shelf Brackets – https://amzn.to/49TZ1Jm (Amazon)
- Recessed Ceiling Light – https://amzn.to/3Voki9X (Amazon)
- Vivo folding flip down tv mount – https://amzn.to/4adO59j (Amazon)
- Swivel Chair from Northern Tool – https://amzn.to/42fTP12 —
- Victron BMV-712 battery monitor – https://amzn.to/3IAGN3N (Amazon)
- Renogy Lifepo4 12 volt 200 AH battery – https://amzn.to/42gRP8S (Amazon)
- Xantrex Prowatt SW2000 2000w inverter https://amzn.to/48UxsOL (Amazon)
- Solar Panel Sliders – https://amzn.to/4ahvlWB (Amazon)
- T-Slotted aluminum bars for solar rack – https://amzn.to/43yTcPv (Amazon)
- All that the rain promises and more: A hip guide to western mushrooms – https://amzn.to/3wX66dO (Amazon)
- Audubon Guide to North American Mushrooms – https://amzn.to/3vbsJup (Amazon)
- BushCraft Box Set – https://amzn.to/3TDMlRr (Amazon)