How Much Does a Campervan Conversion Cost in Australia?
It's the first question almost every customer asks us, and it's a fair one. A custom campervan conversion is a significant investment, and you deserve a straight answer before you pick up the phone.
At Vanology, our custom campervan conversions range from $50,000 to $90,000. Here's what drives that range — and how to figure out where your build might sit.
Why the Price Varies So Much
Unlike buying a caravan off a lot, a custom campervan conversion is built entirely around you. There's no standard package. Every decision you make — from your hot water system to your power setup — affects the final cost. That's what makes a Vanology build so different, and it's also why the price range is wide.
The good news is that because everything is custom, you're never paying for inclusions you don't want or need. We design your build around your lifestyle and your budget, not the other way around.
The Main Factors That Affect Your Price
1. Internal Shower and Bathroom
This is one of the biggest cost factors in any conversion. Adding a full internal shower and toilet requires waterproofing, plumbing, drainage, ventilation, and additional space planning — all of which add significant cost. If you're comfortable using campsite facilities or an outdoor shower, skipping the internal bathroom is one of the most effective ways to reduce your budget.
2. Hot Water System
If you want hot water — for the shower, the kitchen sink, or both — you'll need a hot water heater. The type you choose makes a difference to the price. Options range from basic gas systems through to more sophisticated diesel or electric systems. Each has its own pros and cons depending on how and where you travel, and we'll help you choose the right one for your lifestyle.
3. Power System
Your electrical setup is the backbone of your campervan. A simple system with a single battery and basic 12V appliances sits at one end of the scale. A full off-grid setup with large lithium battery banks, solar panels, a DC-DC charger, and an inverter to run 240V appliances sits at the other. If you want to run a coffee machine, charge laptops, or live off-grid for extended periods, you'll need a more capable system — and that's reflected in the cost.
4. Van Size
The size of your base vehicle affects how much material, cabinetry, and labour goes into the build. A compact Toyota HiAce requires less than a full-size Mercedes Sprinter or a Toyota Coaster. Larger vans offer more living space but naturally cost more to convert.
5. Materials and Finishes
Because every Vanology build is fully custom, you choose the look and feel of your interior. The style of your cabinetry, the hardware, wall finishes, flooring, and upholstery all contribute to the final price. A coastal-inspired timber and white finish requires different materials than a more minimal, functional build.
What Does $50,000 Get You?
At the entry end of our range you're looking at a well-designed, fully functional campervan with a comfortable bed, a kitchen with a sink, fridge and cooktop, clever storage, a power system suited to your needs, and quality finishes throughout. It won't include an internal shower or a high-end power setup, but it will be a beautiful, practical van you'll genuinely love travelling in.
What Does $90,000 Get You?
At the top end you're looking at a full internal bathroom with shower and toilet, a premium hot water system, a large lithium battery bank with significant solar capacity, high-end materials and finishes throughout, and all the comforts of a small home on wheels. These builds are designed for people who want to live in their van full-time or travel for extended periods completely off-grid.
The Best Way to Get an Accurate Price
Because every build is different, the best way to understand what your conversion will cost is to have a conversation about exactly what you want. We offer a free design consultation where we go through your lifestyle, how you'll use the van, and what inclusions matter most to you. From there we can give you an accurate picture of what your build will cost and help you prioritise if needed.
There are no surprises with Vanology — we're upfront about costs from the very beginning.