TINY CAMPER VAN Conversion, From Start To Finish | Nissan NV200 Small Van Build

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КОМЕНТАРІ • 558

  • @sandzhs
    @sandzhs 2 роки тому +180

    I've seen hundreds of vans and van builds, but this is one of the most impressive and well-crafted of them.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому +5

      Thank you, glad you like the build!

    • @brianshefford2317
      @brianshefford2317 Рік тому +1

      I think this is one of the best van builds vids I have watched.This guy has made use of every nook and cranny very clever.😮

    • @brianshefford2317
      @brianshefford2317 Рік тому

      I agree 💯

    • @annelienv
      @annelienv Рік тому

      I have to agree! This is the best one yet

    • @JimmySmithYT
      @JimmySmithYT Рік тому +6

      This comment exists on every camper van video ever.

  • @dg5175
    @dg5175 Рік тому +3

    Thank you for showing this in detail. I hate when i search for van builds and they only give minimal detail or video of the step by step process.

  • @samhelmer1978
    @samhelmer1978 Рік тому +5

    Wow thats such a thorough way of insulating, carpeting and woodworking...im impressed with your patience and attention to detail

  • @garrykennedy5653
    @garrykennedy5653 2 роки тому +69

    Nice build, I love the fact that the van can easily revert back to full size by removing components. Well done I will use some of your ideas as I build my new van.

    • @magnacarta9364
      @magnacarta9364 2 роки тому +1

      That was very good idea.

    • @bitcoinstacker
      @bitcoinstacker Рік тому

      Same. I want to be able to revert to a full van ideally… to have options

  • @pastorchris5533
    @pastorchris5533 Рік тому +3

    Wow, I know you probably already know this, but you’re amazingly talented! Thanks for posting this!

  • @cm2270
    @cm2270 2 роки тому +20

    Absolutely the best simple common sense van build ever. I'm moving out of a chevy astro to a nissan nv200 in a couple months and I'm going to build it out like yours. Thanks a lot for the video.

  • @davidprice1908
    @davidprice1908 10 місяців тому +1

    Just got my 2010 NV200, and am looking at my rental work unit tomorrow, and then it's war! We're buying land in the Mediterranean, wo will be living in it this time next year.....thanks for this!

  • @Celestein
    @Celestein 2 роки тому +1

    I love that everything is so spartan, clever and practical; no unnecessary frills getting in the way. I admit at the first mention of carpet, I knee-jerk cringed a bit but it's done so well it looks clean and cozy.

  • @martinengelbrecht5384
    @martinengelbrecht5384 2 роки тому +5

    9.5 /10 - I love the simplicity while the build is still very neat with excellent functionality!

  • @jimscheltema670
    @jimscheltema670 2 роки тому +9

    One of the simplest, clean & practical builds I've seen!

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому

      Thanks Jim!

    • @FrancescoSignorini-i3z
      @FrancescoSignorini-i3z 10 місяців тому

      if you're interest about these things, look at my camper, the smallest in the world
      ua-cam.com/video/xWPr_HdCJwc/v-deo.htmlsi=z0tgOBEgBpThuxPj

  • @lorrainenicoletti6232
    @lorrainenicoletti6232 2 роки тому +10

    You really know what your doing!
    What confidence and extra details .

  • @UnaChefenlaCocina
    @UnaChefenlaCocina 2 роки тому +1

    A job very well done and very practical friend, I would like to know where you got the mats or what they are called and where you bought them, I liked them a lot and their size is perfect thank you very much and enjoy

  • @mimib1142
    @mimib1142 Рік тому

    I always wonder why many camper vans are packed with so much stuff when the decision is to go carefree. Love your clutter free camper. Neat job. A lot of planning and effort put into it. Thank you for sharing.

    • @cheflifevanlife
      @cheflifevanlife Рік тому +1

      It idea is different for different people that's why some are packed with so much stuff and some are minimal.

  • @9989126
    @9989126 4 місяці тому +3

    This is amazing. Addicted to van conversion videos and hoping to start my own in the next half year - not only have you done yours so well, and the video itself is perfect, but you've also included some great ideas I've not seen or thought of before!

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  4 місяці тому +1

      Thanks, appreciate the kind words!

  • @vandidovan
    @vandidovan Рік тому

    Bought same van a week ago for 3 grand and a half with 127k miles and looking forward to convert it!!!

  • @rfresa
    @rfresa 2 місяці тому +2

    I think I would want at least a small water tank and pump, a way to cook, a solar panel on top, and an emergency toilet, but this is very close to how I would do it.

  • @petervellis4763
    @petervellis4763 Рік тому

    I like the placement of the bed/couch behind the drive seat.its gonna be the center of my build

  • @philipmyatt967
    @philipmyatt967 2 роки тому +7

    What a fabulous and ingenious van build, I had an nv200 4-5 years, I found them an utterly reliable if just a tad small. I am just buying a Vivaro, and fitting it out as a stealth camper/ mtb hauler.
    And I found your build inspiring, love the way you finished the carpeting on the doors. And the door pockets are ingenious.. very nice 👍🏻

  • @mjremy2605
    @mjremy2605 Рік тому

    This is a very good idea to use polyester batting. Same as Thinsulate and costs a whole lot less. Thank you for this good idea! Any wholesale fabric supply shop has them, or even upholstery shops. I wonder if foam does the same job? Or a combination of both.
    Remember to add some patches of Noico or sound deadening material on inside metal panels of your van. This makes the metallic clanging from road vibrations to soften to a thudding sound and greatly reduces road noise inside the van. Mass Loaded Vinyl although heavy is also a great floor and ceiling noise damping, thermal break barrier.
    Instead of the spray foam which off gasses a long time and not removable, I would use sheep's wool batting as stuffing in the hollows.. I would use stiff ISO foam boards for panels and floors too. I am surprised you have not run your wire channels first before sealing it all off. Carpeting the beams is another smart idea!
    Beautiful cabinets! So functional. Nicely made, enjoyed watching that.
    You should learn to sew, it is easy. I would buy a vintage Viking-Husqvarna 6030 or that model line machine. It is around $100. It can handle heavy fabrics as well as regular cloth. Not an industrial level of heavy but canvas or heavy duty cloth works fine. Some robust 90/14 needles and make your own curtains, window covers, etc. This machine may or may not handle marine vinyl, you might need a Juki or Sailrite for that. Get them all used at garage sales, CL, FB, eBay. It feels very powerful to sew your own fabrics. It is another whole world of skills.
    fyi - music is wholly unnecessary in DIY, demo, tour, cooking, or animal videos. Please keep natural sounds and no music. Even in time lapse segments. It really hurts the ears and insanely irritates the mind. Very stressful. Natural sounds are soothing and desirable.

  • @EricGebhard
    @EricGebhard 2 роки тому +39

    Cool video. My wife and I watch several of your build videos and you did a fantastic job building out Yogi. You are obviously a very skilled woodworker. This recap is a great idea and really fun to watch. The Nissan NV200 makes a great camper van, we have one also.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому +2

      Thanks Eric, glad you like the build - hope you're enjoying your van!

    • @DerVagabundli
      @DerVagabundli Рік тому

      This is definitely the most well thought out and executed builds I’ve seen! Might take some inspiration for the 2nd iteration of my Dacia Dokker.

  • @stephendoherty981
    @stephendoherty981 5 місяців тому

    Brilliant job. I've just bought an Opel Combo panel van that's a similiar size to your NV200. Having watched many YT videos of conversions, I'm going to go with your build. It's really practical, simple and maximises space. Too many vans are cluttered with needless stuff. Some people want to replicate their home in their van. I still want to 'camp' in mine.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  5 місяців тому +1

      Thanks, good luck with your conversion!

  • @bulkbrit
    @bulkbrit 2 роки тому +14

    What a great build, thank you for sharing.
    I’ve converted vans for years but you have used techniques and innovative methods in ways I’ve never seen, or considered, before. I look forward to putting some of them to use myself

  • @angelaratzay9034
    @angelaratzay9034 6 місяців тому +1

    You are so clever, my goodness what beautiful work. WISH YOU WERE MY neighbour's. Do you know how smart gifted you are. Thanks.

  • @lulcac88
    @lulcac88 Рік тому

    I don't usually comment videos... But this is a master of work

  • @dharma5774
    @dharma5774 2 роки тому +3

    This is the perfect van for me

  • @TT-js4jn
    @TT-js4jn 2 роки тому +2

    Dang dude, your skills are off the chart and I love all the ideas that you had right down to the cover for your plugins. Very impressive indeed and what a comfy van you have made.

  • @Retrobeemer
    @Retrobeemer Рік тому

    *Nice conversion! I'm here in Cornwall too and have just bought a Transit Connect that I want to convert over the next few months. My budget is pretty meagre though, so will be a lot of upcycling I think. I've also discovered the Transit have issues with leaking and have had to strip out all the cab flooring due to it being absolutely soaked with half inch of standing water in the passenger footwell. Not exactly a great start! It's bone dry now though and I'm going to use a jet wash to try and see where any water might be getting in before I start with fitting any sound deadening and insulation. I plan on taking my time with the design and hopefully cherry pick the best ideas from builds like your own. Anyway, thanks for the inspiration! Mark*

  • @jimadams6159
    @jimadams6159 3 роки тому +32

    Really impressed with your work. Quality van build 👌

  • @timschutte6924
    @timschutte6924 Рік тому

    You are very creative. Those Kreig joints are awesome. The best way to screw things together.
    It is so much work !!! I hope I can do a job as good as you did.
    I am thinking about a mid size van and eventually either a used taller van that I can stand up in or a pop top like the old VW Van's had.
    And put my bed up over everything inside.
    That provides such a massive area savings. Because I would like to have one of those lightweight folding ANTI-GRAVITY CHAIRS. I love those and can actually sleep in it if I would like to or if I'm at an area and trying to be stealthy.
    I'm gonna use a portable 8,000 BTU A/C. I will be getting a brand new HONDA generator, 2,200 watt.
    I will also be getting a Jackery lithium power generator, they call them with solar panels on the roof, about 500 hundred watts.
    Also a 4 or 5 cubic foot 12 volt refrigerator. Also for back up is a top quality 4 cubic foot cooler.
    Those things are expensive but will keep ice for a week. I can also reuse the water out of it. Maybe a sink that drains into a 5 gallon bucket. Outdoor shower or maybe look into getting a wet bath inside .

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  Рік тому

      Sounds like an epic van conversion, all the best with it! 🚐

  • @fritz4345
    @fritz4345 Рік тому +4

    Wonderful build. Not too fancy but very efficient. Well done!

  • @Flash1857
    @Flash1857 2 роки тому

    Folding table is inventive. Thanks

  • @michaelchiesa6142
    @michaelchiesa6142 Рік тому +1

    Practical and useful information... Here in tropical north Queensland Oz, living in my VW Crafter, much appreciation for your tips on vanlife...

  • @neaveiisaac2816
    @neaveiisaac2816 Рік тому

    A good build for those who want a long term camper.

  • @andriipiddubnyak9819
    @andriipiddubnyak9819 Рік тому

    Напевне найкраща переробка nv200. Без надмірного фанатизму впихнути все, разом з тим максимально використаний простір.

  • @JohnvanGurp
    @JohnvanGurp Рік тому

    This is a beautiful build… I love the smaller van sizes. Thanks for sharing!

  • @Lcatch415
    @Lcatch415 18 днів тому

    I always love the look of natural wood. Nicely done.

  • @butterygudness7577
    @butterygudness7577 3 роки тому +10

    Amazing work James definitely inspired.

  • @Malainor
    @Malainor Рік тому

    Dame nice just bought my first small van, only seen the bigger van conversations before on yt. Well done.
    Well i did see a small caddy 10y ago, with a bed small tv so a bit why i wanted a van😂.

  • @Destino_Desconhecido
    @Destino_Desconhecido 9 місяців тому

    Wow.
    Very well crafted.
    Simple and creative solutions that totally transformed how the van looks like

  • @darrinleblanc3770
    @darrinleblanc3770 Рік тому +1

    Well, I have to say this is so well done. If only we could get high-speed-time-lapse James to do all the work for me that would be awesome. Not only is it well done but, I'm sure the sense of accomplishment and enjoyment after you completed it and began using it on your surf safaris is probably awesome. Between this build in the Nissan and the Dodge ProMaster City builds it's making me long for the VW Westfalia campers of my youth. I used those when I was in my teens to travel up and down the California coast on surf adventures. I've always thought the Westfalia was one of the most ingenious builds ever created. The addition of the sink and refrigerator were so ahead of their time. I noticed you elected not to use any flat solar panels on the top of the NV200. Was that intentional or maybe out of budgetary scope. Also, most builds I see have vent fans in the ceiling which it appears you maybe don't need? Does that have to do with your geo location and the environment that you're using your van in? Just curious. All in all, I really commend you on the work you've done. I hope that you have many happy years traveling to the surf spots near you. Cheers.

  • @lamaha564
    @lamaha564 Рік тому

    Picking up mine in a week, some really clever ideas. Can’t wait. Thank you.

  • @cquinn2750
    @cquinn2750 2 роки тому +3

    Love the recap - great reminder of the different elements of your build. Thanks so much for the inspiration. Pleased to report that I made a three part sliding bed very much the same as yours 👌👌

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому +1

      Thanks, glad you like the van build. Hope you're enjoying your bed and it's working well for you!

    • @cquinn2750
      @cquinn2750 2 роки тому

      @@LensOfJames Good enough thanks. Bit of adjustment/washers still needed to help it slide but more than happy. Thanks again 😃

  • @bitcoinstacker
    @bitcoinstacker Рік тому

    This is as much effort, and neatness - with optionality as I was seeking. Spot on! Thank you!

  • @tomsplayground7712
    @tomsplayground7712 5 місяців тому

    have one NV200 too, Im not verry satisfied with my solution. Using 4 great boxes for the stuff and a folding layer for the night. Ist allways uncomfortable to remove the layer, if you want to get your stuff out of the boxes. I need a more comfortable system. Yours is a great inspiration. THY for sharing.

  • @nmartin5551
    @nmartin5551 Рік тому

    I agree with the others! You have one of the best and easiest to watch van conversion videos I have seen. And I have watched a ton!

  • @suearthur5129
    @suearthur5129 2 роки тому

    Love the use of the carpet and vinyl which cuts down the weight of the conversion and looks great. Your build was fantastic.

  • @1GreatLake
    @1GreatLake 2 роки тому

    wow the carpets look sooo good. extra points for the breathing protection

  • @GodskidUr1
    @GodskidUr1 7 місяців тому +1

    It takes some work and creativity to do all that. Looks great 😊

  • @1hjehje
    @1hjehje 2 роки тому +7

    Excellent work. Great attention to detail and a conversion that can be completed at a reasonable cost. RV prices have gone through the roof lately. I have a travel trailer but I am considering a van sometime in the future for weekend camping. Thank you for the video.

  • @framberthuchtkerinterphoto3904

    best small van concept on youtube.

  • @GoTerry
    @GoTerry Рік тому

    I really like the window coverings but the entire build is brilliant

  • @SharonAvery
    @SharonAvery Місяць тому

    This is amazing and I feel people can do a van build which you made it easy to follow ❤

  • @frankosmith6718
    @frankosmith6718 Рік тому

    Never before has my Flabber been so Gasted? I'm going to do one myself and have noted some of your ideas. Sit at the front of the class.😉

  • @peterbeyer5755
    @peterbeyer5755 2 роки тому

    You could make a canvas or plastic hood to go over your rear doors to give your self extra protection from the sun or rain.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому

      I had the same thought, and came up with this: ua-cam.com/video/egm-4HUN44M/v-deo.html

  • @nickknowles4917
    @nickknowles4917 Рік тому

    This is one of the most well thought out van builds I have seen. Will be stealing lots of these ideas.

  • @elleworkim3096
    @elleworkim3096 2 роки тому +1

    Really good work with an impressive result, also a great inspiration for finishing my camper van. The only challenge I have to deal with is that I wanna at least keep one passenger seat in the back of the van. In the end life is a compromise, no matter how u do it. Best regards from germany

  • @darransykes2540
    @darransykes2540 Рік тому

    Looks good, the floor really sets the whole thing off but for me, I'd have used a gray wood effect vinal for the floor to match the carpeted walls....

  • @Millhouse_liveriesGt7
    @Millhouse_liveriesGt7 Рік тому

    Excellent video got me excited to buy my first van the nv200 and make my camper great ideas hope your still having fun in it 😊

  • @darrincambridge2377
    @darrincambridge2377 Рік тому

    Nice woodworking and attention to detail. Surprised no roof venting beware sealing in door locks etc 😉

  • @senyorricardo3141
    @senyorricardo3141 Рік тому

    im so impressed on
    how you build small van
    into a beautiful camper van
    nice video sharing
    good job your new friend
    Senyor Ricardo

  • @lahopkins9746
    @lahopkins9746 2 роки тому

    You are so handy! Your ideas were great and it turned out lovely! Great job. Now! Can I have it?! 😁

  • @InquisitiveMind23
    @InquisitiveMind23 Рік тому

    Impressive... I would hire you as a consultant if I am building a VAN for out and about in the UK... Well insulated and well built without compromising & functional...

  • @sabineburger6699
    @sabineburger6699 2 роки тому

    Wirklich toll geworden!!
    Gratulation zu diesem Umbau!
    👍❤️👍🍀👍❤️👍🍀
    Have nice time in your "new" car.
    👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

  • @wandarogers5769
    @wandarogers5769 Рік тому

    beautiful. clean lines and clutter free. love it.

  • @MTK.LIVERPOOL.OFFICIAL
    @MTK.LIVERPOOL.OFFICIAL Рік тому

    SIR YOU DO NOT MESS ABOUT WELL DONE 👍

  • @pauldawson2711
    @pauldawson2711 2 роки тому

    Great video, no nonsense or nattering about nothing 👍 great job you did too. Thanks for sharing

  • @russellrlf
    @russellrlf 2 роки тому

    I am going to finish the vid but I have to say, you did an amazing job on the carpet. I have tried to do some carpet in a van. It was hard and looked terrible. Yours is amazing.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому +1

      Thank you, it was a nightmare but thankfully it paid off

  • @flux_core_fx
    @flux_core_fx Рік тому

    I really like your use of automotive carpet, sweet van!

  • @allanjonalisidro7007
    @allanjonalisidro7007 Рік тому

    Very simple but sophisticated

  • @grizze
    @grizze Рік тому

    Very nice Vanbuild! I saw another Nissan Camper on a Campsite this summer and thought further about an own Microcamper sometimes. I like your build because important for me is to carry a bike in the van. And that seems possible with your build. Great 👍

  • @michaellee316
    @michaellee316 5 місяців тому

    This is almost exactly how I want to convert my van! Saving this playlist! Subbed!

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  5 місяців тому

      Thanks, appreciate the sub, good luck with your build! 🚐

  • @lweleven3423
    @lweleven3423 Рік тому

    Having done 1 myself I have to say compared to mine that’s a very professional job , fancy coming to do mine lol

  • @robwainwright5387
    @robwainwright5387 Рік тому

    I really like your van build. I have a VW t5, I would really like to do something similar with mine. The sliding/folding bed is very smart.

  • @peterelias2345
    @peterelias2345 2 роки тому

    Awesome tutorial of camper van conversion using on Nissan. I haven't seen NV 200 with 2 folded rear doors like yours. In here the NV200 comes with 1 flip up door.

    • @joline2730
      @joline2730 2 роки тому

      Peter: here in the UK two rear doors are called Barn Doors and flip up is called a Tail-lift.

    • @peterelias2345
      @peterelias2345 Рік тому +1

      @@joline2730 Thanks for your further information

  • @deanhumphries7878
    @deanhumphries7878 2 роки тому +3

    What a great job you have done on this van conversion.

  • @bobmcateer01
    @bobmcateer01 2 роки тому +2

    Cracking work there mate. The little touches of routing the edging of the table/cabinet makes it look that good bit more professional. Getting my van end of the week to begin my build!

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому +2

      Thanks, best of luck with your build!

  • @janetenold4803
    @janetenold4803 Рік тому

    Very impressive build. If I had better health and could afford a part time RV, I would like many of the elements you included.

  • @leilal8053
    @leilal8053 2 роки тому +1

    Nice. But I would worry about carpet on the walls retaining cooking odors and possibly bugs. I also would encorporate some hanging space and the all important and indispensable [4Me] cassette toilet 🚻. 😊

    • @baz7055
      @baz7055 2 роки тому

      Also I'm wondering if the carpet glue is holding up in the desert south west and Texas heat?

  • @kiransutar3108
    @kiransutar3108 Рік тому

    I really like the conversion in van.. simple and beautiful..

  • @jaaman0670
    @jaaman0670 Рік тому

    Bravo, c'est une très belle et très sérieuse réalisation 👏👍😃 !

  • @robiniapseudoacacia
    @robiniapseudoacacia Рік тому

    Fantastically informative video. Thankyou for taking the time to make it. Could you give a rough idea how many days work the build took please?

  • @yogeshbhoir2190
    @yogeshbhoir2190 2 роки тому

    Iam from india very simple and easy
    work thank you so much

  • @annegribben444
    @annegribben444 2 роки тому

    Wow you are extremely practical....wow....it could be a career ...

  • @dawnsky999
    @dawnsky999 Рік тому

    Great build, impressive use of space with simple no fuss efficiency!

  • @mckeon1960
    @mckeon1960 2 роки тому +2

    It's fab. Love the finish in the wood. Lovely job

  • @paule3475
    @paule3475 9 місяців тому

    Excellently done and very inspiring. Thanks for sharing this with us all!

  • @ploysrithechannel7932
    @ploysrithechannel7932 2 дні тому

    That’s cool, I wish you were local as I need my van converted like your 😊

  • @jamespsyfer
    @jamespsyfer 7 місяців тому

    Fire extinguisher is a nice touch 👍

  • @robinjones6692
    @robinjones6692 Рік тому

    Brilliant, exactly what I would like to do myself. I definitely will follow up on others things related to this video.

  • @partyvr5053
    @partyvr5053 Рік тому

    Absolutely amazing job this guy did! Wow!!!

  • @rosemarygordon8887
    @rosemarygordon8887 Рік тому

    Very interesting & detailed information on how you kitted out your van...enjoyed watching.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  Рік тому

      Thank you, glad it was interesting :)

  • @JawadFarooq
    @JawadFarooq Рік тому

    NICE BUILD DEAR

  • @El_Wrath
    @El_Wrath Рік тому

    Wow awesome man. Think I've decided how I'm doing mine now 😂

  • @carolinecraighead9232
    @carolinecraighead9232 2 роки тому

    This is great, thanks for all the info. We have an NV200 that we want to convert for a trip across Europe but think I may need some carpentry skills to do anything like you have, Yogi is fab! ❤️

  • @kimkelberg
    @kimkelberg 9 місяців тому

    Beutyfull camperbuild 👍, Nice small battery pack

  • @blackmagic8115
    @blackmagic8115 2 роки тому

    Great Job! I’m working on a 2016 Transit Connect and can really appreciate how well designed you made it.

    • @LensOfJames
      @LensOfJames  2 роки тому

      Thanks, good luck with your conversion!

  • @rockyroadblues100
    @rockyroadblues100 2 роки тому

    James you are gifted ,and a fast worker lol sub and greets from Ireland and Spain

  • @EmmasNatureEscapes
    @EmmasNatureEscapes Місяць тому

    I'll keep following, because you give such useful information.
    Thank you so much for taking the time to share.
    Subscribed!

  • @DucPham-oy9uz
    @DucPham-oy9uz 2 роки тому

    Very talented. It helped me to decide how I'm going to insulate my van.

  • @steveffuksake
    @steveffuksake 2 роки тому

    It's amazin what a raisin can do, brilliant and interesting.