The Best Vans for DIY Conversions in 2025

If you’re planning a conversion in 2025, you have more options than ever: cargo vans, minivans, micro vans, and even hybrid platforms. The challenge isn’t finding a van; it’s figuring out which one fits your lifestyle, budget, and build plans. Here’s a rundown of the best vans for DIY conversions this year, based on size, reliability, drivability, and how well they pair with modular furniture systems like Camp N Car’s.

Ford Transit: The Most Versatile Choice

If versatility is your priority, the Transit is still the most balanced platform on the market.

Why people love it:

• Smooth handling

• Multiple roof heights

• AWD options

• Affordable parts and easy repairs

DIY builders appreciate the boxy interior, which makes framing, insulation, and paneling much easier. The mid-roof models work well for weekenders using a Pioneer Platform and a shelving system, while the high-roof options provide genuine standing room for long-term travel.

Mercedes Sprinter: Best for Full-Time Travel and High Roof Builds

The Sprinter remains the king of long-term builds. It’s tall, spacious, and built for heavy interior layouts.

Strengths include:

• 4x4 and AWD options

• Long wheelbases for bigger layouts

• Excellent diesel efficiency

• Aftermarket parts everywhere

The trade-off is cost, both upfront and ongoing. But if you want a full kitchen, a shower pan, and a raised bed with massive garage storage, the Sprinter gives you the most space to work with. Pairing it with modular systems like a Pioneer Platform or a full-height shelving setup keeps the build simple while taking advantage of all that vertical room.

Ram ProMaster: The Best Interior Shape for DIY Builds

The ProMaster’s biggest advantage is its interior shape. Its walls are straighter, and the layout is wider, giving you more room for a sideways bed or a two-person futon setup.

Why DIY builders choose it:

• The widest body in its class

• Lower cost of ownership

• Front-wheel drive for easier winter traction

• Easier interior framing

It’s not the flashiest van on the list, but if you want maximum interior space at a reasonable cost, this is the sleeper choice.

Toyota Sienna: The Ultimate Budget-Friendly Camper

Minivans deserve more respect in the camper world. The Sienna is one of the best-value platforms for anyone who wants a quick, efficient build without losing daily drivability.

Why the Sienna works so well:

• Modern models come in AWD and hybrid

• Excellent gas mileage

• Low maintenance

• Enough interior room for a platform bed + gear storage

For weekenders, national park travelers, and solo campers, the Sienna is hard to beat.

Honda Odyssey: Comfortable, Spacious, and Easy to Work With

The Odyssey has long been a favorite among stealth campers and DIY builders for its interior height and seat-folding system.

Perks include:

• Roomy cabin

• Quiet ride

• Reliable drivetrain

• Easy flat load space when rear seats fold away

If you want a simple platform-plus-storage setup without committing to a full cargo van, the Odyssey is one of the easiest starting points.

Chevy Express / GMC Savana: Old School but Still Useful

These older-style vans aren’t fancy, but they’re reliable workhorses with huge engine options and simple mechanical systems.

They’re great if you:

• Want a low upfront cost

• Prefer minimal electronics

• Plan to tow or haul heavy gear

• Don’t mind lower roof height

The interior isn’t as build-friendly as newer models, but a platform bed and modular shelving go a long way.

Which Van Is Best for You?

Choose a Transit if you want a balance of modern features, good AWD capability, and a comfortable ride.

Choose a Sprinter if: you’re going full-time and need max space.

Choose a ProMaster if: interior width is your top priority.

Choose a Sienna or Odyssey if: you want a budget-friendly micro-camper that still fits Camp N Car modular systems.

Choose an Express/Savana if: you want something cheap and mechanical.

No matter which route you go, modular furniture keeps the build simple, reversible, and adaptable as your needs change. Shop the latest Camp N Car designs to find the perfect fit for your next rig.