If you dream of van life but think building a van is out of reach, this post and video from Jarrod Tocci Tours is for you.
Vamonos Vans, a San Diego company with four years of experience, is making van life possible for more people. Their mission is simple: Help people build high-quality camper vans at affordable prices. Instead of tackling a custom build from scratch, Vamonos now offers pre-engineered DIY aluminum kit parts, making it easier for anyone armed with basic tools to build their own camper van.
The Base Camp model: Essentials first
The Base Camp model from Vamonos Vans brings all the key features needed for great van travel, without extras that some might never use. It’s designed primarily for the Sprinter 144 platform; however, the company plans versions for Transits, ProMasters, and even classic Econolines soon. Buyers can pick and choose, buying a full DIY kit or only the pieces they want.
Vamonos Vans uses aluminum for cabinet frames, which brings big benefits over traditional wood. Aluminum is much lighter, which means better fuel efficiency and less strain as you drive. It’s also resistant to squeaks and doesn’t respond to temperature swings like wood. For a warm look, the aluminum skeleton is faced with wood or bamboo panels, so the van still feels cozy. These aluminum parts are ready for powder coating, so owners can choose their own colors or finishes.
The Base Camp layout uses raised benches in the back, hiding full electrical and water systems under one bench and giving open storage under the other. There’s a false bottom for service access. Instead of upper cabinets, most storage now sits below, freeing up headspace and making use of every inch. The bench area fits tall users comfortably (up to 6’3”) and quickly converts into a queen-size bed. The galley sits alongside, so one person can cook while the other lounges or sleeps. Larger families can swap some galley space for more seating or beds.
DIYers can tailor each van by picking the kits or parts that suit them best. Want just the cushions or only the walls? No problem. Each option is built for easy installation using regular hand tools, but the results look professional—key for resale.
Available kit components:
• Benches and cushions
• Aluminum or bamboo cabinets
• Electrical systems
• Water tanks and plumbing
• Floor, wall, and ceiling kits
• Insulation kits
Vamonos uses EcoFlow power kits, especially the easy-to-install Gen 2 series. These all-in-one kits make electric installs easy for first-timers and keep costs lower. Water fill points and shower setups come standard, but toilets are left up to the owner—usually a composting bucket for emergencies.
Using aluminum cuts the weight of key van features by about 40%, compared to wood. To trim pounds further, countertops have hexagon cutouts underneath—keeping structure while lowering mass. This means easier driving, lower fuel bills, and simpler handling.
Van furniture frames use one-inch square tube aluminum, which is lighter than heavier extruded aluminum (8020). Square tube aluminum bends and absorbs shocks better, acting like a “crumple zone” if there’s ever a collision. This keeps the interior safer and quieter.
Each van kit has core comfort features designed for travelers. An EcoFlow Wave 2 air heater sits under the walkway, ready for installation as needed. The kitchen includes a straightforward cooktop, with space to add luxury extras if desired.
The Base Camp’s raised platform removes easily, so users can haul bikes, plywood, or gear for any adventure or job. Owners can reconfigure the space for camping, travel, or work, giving their investment more uses every year.
Accessible builds: ADA-compliant options
Vamonos Vans also creates wheelchair-friendly vans, like the Sprinter 170 with a wheelchair lift, swivel seats, and a bed lowered to wheelchair height. This build wasn’t just for one owner; it’s available to rent for others with similar needs—a big step for inclusion in the van life scene.
The inspiration behind this: The owner wanted to keep up with friends after life in a wheelchair, and now helps others do the same.
Get more details
To get updates on pricing or to see new kit options, visit the official Vamonos Vans website or follow their latest builds and news on Instagram at @vamonosvans.
Vamonos Vans’ goal is clear: Deliver quality van builds and DIY kits without breaking the bank. Their shop remains available for builds, repairs, and service, whether you buy a kit or want expert help.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:
- Simple, no-build minivan camper with shower, toilet, and kitchen
- How to hide a stealth window in your campervan or RV build
- Comparing the top five best campervans for seniors
- The top 5 van build mistakes
RVT1221
This is excellent! If I didn’t already have my micro camper van I would go for this. No surprise that I’m the first (and only) commenter on this article as this would sadly be of no interest to your typical behemoth RVers.
We’re driving a behemoth, but we had 6 Class B vans before we “grew up” and I’m looking forward to downsizing to something like this at some point in the future.
Thank you for sharing the video and summarizing it, Cheri! Cool way of those with fewer skills to still achieve one of their dreams. Have a great week and safe travels!