Building your own van vs Hiring a van builder
Building out your own van versus hiring someone to do it is a decision that many van lifers face. Both options have pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Pros of building out your own van
It can be a rewarding experience
There’s a sense of satisfaction that comes from building something yourself. It can also be a lot of fun to be creative and put your own spin on your van. There are plenty of DIY van companies like Roost Vans, that have van bed systems and van cabinetry, that make it easy to install products yourself.
You can save money
Building out a van yourself can be much cheaper than hiring someone else to do it. There are many resources available online that can help you with the conversion process. In addition to online blogs and videos, there are plenty of companies like Roost Vans, Goal Zero, and Lagun USA that make the process easy and affordable.
You have more control over the process
When you build out your own van, you can choose exactly what you want and how you want it to look. With the Roost Vans Smooth Rail Mounting System, you are able to place your van products in a precise location, as opposed to 1” intervals with an L-track. Roost Vans products give you much flexibility and are easy to install.
Cons of building out your own van
It can be time-consuming
Building a van can take a lot of time and effort, especially if you’re not experienced with construction. It can be frustrating. There will be times when you make mistakes or things don’t go according to plan. It’s important to be patient and persistent when building your own van.
You may not have the necessary tools and materials
Building a van requires a lot of tools and materials. Thankfully, companies like Roost Vans have products that are easy to install, such as our cabinetry or bed systems.
Pros of hiring someone to build out your van
It can save you time
If you hire someone else to build your van, you won’t have to spend all the time and effort doing it yourself. Most van builders, like Roost Vans, have showrooms that help you choose your desired van products and the overall look and feel of your van.
It can be less frustrating
If you hire someone else to build your van, you won’t have to deal with the frustration of making mistakes or things not going according to plan.
Cons of hiring someone to build out your van
It can be expensive
Hiring a professional to build your van can be expensive, especially if you want them to do a high-quality job. Not only will you have to pay for the products and materials in your van, but you also have to pay for the labor.
They may have a waitlist
Social media platforms have made it easier than ever for people to share their van life experiences with the world. This has helped to raise awareness of the lifestyle and make it seem more attainable. With the rise in popularity, professional van builders might not be able to build your van when you desire. Van builders usually take on a few vans at a time, making the wait time a bit longer.
Conclusion
Vans are a relatively affordable way to travel, especially when compared to traditional RVs. This makes them a more accessible option for people who are looking to downsize their lifestyle. Ultimately, the decision of whether to build out your own van or hire someone to do it is a personal one. There is no right or wrong answer, and the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
