When building a camper van, one of the most debated features is whether or not to include a shower. At Roost Vans, we’ve taken a clear stance: we don’t install interior showers. Why? Because the challenges far outweigh the benefits, especially when considering the functionality, cost, space constraints and practicality of camper vans. Here’s an in-depth exploration of our reasoning and the alternative solutions we recommend.

Why We Don’t Do Showers in Vans

1. Space Constraints

Camper vans are all about maximizing a small footprint. Installing a shower requires significant infrastructure:

• Dedicated Space: An enclosed shower takes up valuable real estate, reducing the usable living or storage space.
• Visual Impact: A vertical shower wall interrupts the line of sight from one corner of the van to the other, making the space feel smaller and more cramped. At Roost Vans, we prioritize an open, uninterrupted design to maintain the feeling of spaciousness.

2. Minimal Usage

Through years of experience, we’ve found that showers in vans are rarely used. Most van owners rely on alternatives:

• Campgrounds and State Parks: These locations often have full-size, comfortable endlessly hot shower facilities.
• Natural Water Sources: Lakes, rivers, and beaches are popular for quick rinses and are very enjoyable.
• Exterior Showers: More on this below, but outdoor setups often meet the need without the drawbacks of an interior shower.

3. Infrastructure Challenges

Adding a shower means introducing complex systems that are often impractical in a van:

4. Cost vs. Value

The cost of adding an interior shower can easily run into the many many thousands, yet its functionality often falls short of expectations. At Roost Vans, we believe in investing those resources into features that provide greater long-term value, such as high-quality cabinetry, bed systems, or advanced power setups.

The Roost Vans Alternative: Exterior Showers

While we don’t install interior showers, we do offer a modular and practical solution: an exterior shower system.

How It Works

• Water Tank: A 20-gallon over-the-wheel-well water tank that also supplies water to the interior sink.
• Spray Port: The tank includes a spray port for versatile use—rinse off surfboards, bikes, pets, or muddy boots.
• Hot Water Setup: For a full shower experience, we add an inline propane-powered hot water heater with showerhead and curtain for privacy.

Benefits of the Exterior Shower

1. Compact and Flexible: Takes up minimal space inside the van while offering maximum functionality.
2. Multi-Use System: The water tank serves both the sink and shower, maximizing utility.
3. Efficient: Uses propane and water sparingly, making it ideal for off-grid camping.
4. Practical Application: Perfect for rinsing off after a day at the beach, mountain biking, or other outdoor activities.

When an Interior Shower Might Make Sense

If you’re absolutely set on an interior shower, we recommend considering the Tetravan Folding Shower System. It’s one of the most innovative designs we’ve seen, offering a compact, fold-away solution. However, even with this option, there are still challenges with heating water and storing sufficient water for a satisfying shower.

Our Philosophy on Camper Vans

At Roost Vans, our design philosophy is rooted in practicality and efficiency. Camper vans are not RVs, and we aim to create functional, adventure-ready spaces that prioritize usability over unnecessary features. By omitting interior showers, we ensure that our vans:

• Remain open and spacious.
• Avoid unnecessary complexity and maintenance issues.
• Deliver better value for your investment.

The Final Word on Showers in Vans

While the idea of a shower in your van may sound appealing, the reality often proves less glamorous. Instead of dedicating space and budget to an underused feature, consider the versatility and practicality of an exterior shower system. It’s efficient, flexible, and perfectly suited to the van life lifestyle.

Ready to build your dream van? Contact us or visit roostvans.com to learn more about our designs and solutions tailored to your adventure.

Are you on the hunt for the perfect adventure vehicle to suit your lifestyle? Whether you’re a weekend warrior hitting the road for a few days or a family planning month-long excursions – the choice between a Sprinter and a Transit can significantly impact your travel experiences. As someone deeply entrenched in the world of van life, I’ve spent countless hours comparing these two iconic platforms. I’ve considered everything from engine performance and vehicle options to build costs and layouts. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty and explore which rig might be the best fit for you.

Size Matters: Maneuverability vs. Interior Space

The first consideration when choosing between a Sprinter and a Transit is often size. Both models offer various wheelbase options: from the compact 144 to the extended 170. While the larger wheelbase provides ample interior space for customization, it comes at the cost of maneuverability. Parking a 170-wheelbase Sprinter or a 148-extended Transit can be a challenge in tight spaces, even with the better maneuverability of the 148-ext. Whereas the shorter variants offer more agility on the road.

If you’re a solo traveler or a couple seeking a nimble daily driver, the Sprinter 144 or Transit 148 might be the way to go. However, for families or those requiring extra living space, the Sprinter 170 or Transit 148 extended body provides room to stretch out without sacrificing comfort. So, regarding size, both Sprinter and Transit are a close call.

Be aware, the 144 Sprinter interior is slightly shorter than the 148 Transit, and the 170 interior is slightly longer than the 148 extended Transit.

Engine Performance: Diesel vs. EcoBoost

When it comes to engine performance, the Sprinter’s diesel engine and the Transit’s EcoBoost offer distinct advantages. While the Sprinter diesel engines provide robust torque ideal for heavy towing, they can feel sluggish during acceleration. On the other hand, the Transit EcoBoost engine delivers responsive power, making highway passing a breeze.

In terms of fuel efficiency, both models fare relatively well. Mileage is affected by many factors of course. Ironically, we’ve found build weight to have the most minimal effect, with AWD/4WD and driving habits being next, and exterior accouterments and add ons that increase wind resistance having the most effect. In general, maintenance costs tend to tip the scale in favor of the Transit, with lower servicing expenses compared to the pricier Sprinter repairs and maintenance.

However, it still comes with a fuel economy penalty. Alternatively, the Transit’s all-wheel-drive system provides a confidence-inspiring grip without compromising as much fuel efficiency, making it an attractive choice for versatile travelers. We’ve been finding however that the Trail variant has an additional mileage hit over the AWD Transit.

Build Costs: Budgeting for Your Dream Rig

Lastly, let’s talk about build costs. While both platforms offer endless customization possibilities, the Sprinter tends to be more budget-friendly in terms of labor and materials. The Transit’s slightly more complex design and construction result in higher build costs, which may be a factor for your budget.

In this category, Sprinter takes the lead.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Adventure Companion

In the end, choosing between a Sprinter and a Transit boils down to your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize interior space and off-road capabilities, the Sprinter might be the ideal companion for your epic journeys. However, if maneuverability, engine responsiveness, and budget-friendly maintenance are your top priorities, the Transit could be your ticket to van life bliss.

No matter which platform you choose, embarking on the van life adventure opens up a world of possibilities, from remote wilderness camping to urban exploration. So, weigh your options carefully, test drive both models if possible, and embark on the journey of a lifetime with your dream rig by your side. Happy travels!

When ordering your van however, a couple of things to consider:

• Order a van with factory swivel seats if possible.
• Fixed windows in the driver side sliding door and rear doors is a good option as the van builder can add vented windows elsewhere.
• Sprinter factory roof rails from the factory allow for installation of roof racks and solar panels.

Ordering a custom rig for your adventure lifestyle is an exciting process, but it requires careful consideration. Let’s dive into what you should think about before placing your order.

Vehicle Options

When choosing between Sprinter and Transit, consider the available options that are practical for a van build. Sprinter offers 144 and 170 wheelbases, both in high roof. There is also a 170 extended version, although rare.Although offered, we have found that the Sprinter Mid roof does not have enough clearance for a campervan build.

Transit offers a 148 wheelbase available in regular length in a high and mid roof configuration, or extended length in a high roof config. Decide which configuration best suits your needs. Both of these rigs interior spaces are very close for general building considerations.

Roof Height

Opting for a high roof provides more headroom and space for customization. Transit’s high roof offers slightly more headroom than Sprinters, providing additional comfort and versatility. While the Transit’s mid roof option is often just fine for people about 5’9” or less.

Budget Considerations

Establish a budget for your custom rig, considering both the initial purchase price and potential long-term costs, as well as upfitting costs. Account for factors like maintenance, repairs, fuel economy, and insurance premiums. Ensure your budget aligns with your financial goals and priorities. And most of all, leave enough budget to build out your vehicle. A common technique is to finance the vehicle while leaving cash reserves for the build.

Customization Potential

Research the customization options available for your chosen platform. Consider factors like interior layout, exterior features, upgrades, and accessories. Explore aftermarket options and modifications to personalize your rig to your preferences.

Resale Value

Consider the potential resale value of your custom rig. Choose options and features that appeal to a broad audience to maximize resale potential down the line. Opt for upgrades and modifications that enhance value without overcapitalizing.

Test Drive

Before placing your order, schedule test drives of both Sprinter and Transit models to experience their handling, comfort, and performance firsthand. Pay attention to details like driving dynamics, ergonomics, and overall feel to make an informed decision. This is such a subjective call, but we’ve found that the Sprinter platform differences in 2wd vs 4wd drive quite different out of the box, while the Transit 2wd and AWD are almost identical.

Consultation

If you’re unsure about any aspect of the ordering process, seek guidance from experienced professionals or fellow enthusiasts. Consult with van builders, dealerships, or online communities to gather insights and advice.

In conclusion, ordering a custom rig requires careful consideration of various factors, including vehicle options, roof height, layout, drivetrain, budget, customization potential, resale value, test drives, and consultations. By thoroughly evaluating these aspects, you can ensure that your adventure rig meets your needs and preferences, providing you with countless memorable journeys on the open road.

Roost Vans is excited to announce the launch of our monthly webinars, designed to support both DIY van builders and those considering van conversion. Whether you’re looking to convert a van yourself, hire a professional, or take a hybrid approach, our webinars will provide valuable insights and guidance.

Kicking Off the Webinars

In September 2024, we hosted our first webinar, “Your Guide to Choosing the Right Van,” and the response was overwhelmingly positive. Participants learned the key differences between popular van models—Transit, Sprinter, and Promaster—and explored important considerations such as new vs. used vans, wheelbase options, as well as specific pitfalls to avoid. The interactive Q&A session allowed participants to ask specific questions, making the session both informative and engaging.

More Than Just Webinars: Building a Community

Our webinars are only the beginning. At Roost Vans, we’re building a community. Our long-term plans include a community area on our website, featuring forums where DIY builders and van enthusiasts can connect, share ideas, experiences, and ask questions. Our goal is to build a reliable resource hub for DIY van builders and those exploring the van life, with a focus on peer-to-peer support as well as offering expert guidance.

In addition to the forums, we’re planning to roll out more video content and detailed tutorials, so you’ll have access to a wealth of information to help you at every stage of your build.

Why Roost Vans?

At Roost Vans, we’ve made it our mission to simplify the van conversion process, and to put your dreams within reach. Our modular products are designed for flexibility, making them ideal for DIYers and professionals alike. By attending our webinars and engaging with our upcoming community resources, you’ll not only gain valuable knowledge but also have the support of a community that shares your passion for van life.

Join Us on October 24th

We invite you to join us for our October 24th webinar, or at any point in the future.  This is the perfect opportunity to take your van conversion knowledge to the next level. Register now to reserve your spot and stay tuned as we continue to build a vibrant, supportive community for van enthusiasts everywhere.

Register Here