How much solar do I need for a van build?

Calculate your daily watt-hour consumption first: a 12V fridge (BougeRV 30qt) uses ~40–60Wh/day in moderate temps; a laptop uses ~30–60Wh per charge; LED lighting uses ~5–15Wh/day; phone charging ~10–15Wh. A typical work-from-van setup uses 200–400Wh/day. For reliable solar charging in 4–6 hours of peak sun, you need 1.2–2× your daily consumption in solar wattage — so 300–400W of panels for a 200–300Wh/day build. In winter or cloudy climates, add 50–100% capacity.

What is the best diesel heater for a van?

For budget builds, the Vevor 8kW diesel heater with upgraded fuel pump and glow plug is our top recommendation under $200. For reliability-first builds, the Webasto Air Top Evo 40 justifies its $800+ price with 5-year warranty and dealer service network. Key installation requirements for any diesel heater: fuel pickup from the main tank (not an auxiliary jerry can), proper exhaust routing away from the vehicle body, and air intake positioned away from exhaust gases.

How much does a full van conversion cost?

A minimalist van conversion (insulation, bed platform, basic electrical, no plumbing) runs $2,000–$5,000 in materials. A mid-level build with 200Ah LiFePO4, 400W solar, 12V fridge, diesel heater, and basic plumbing runs $8,000–$15,000. A premium build matching campervan standards costs $20,000–$40,000 in materials. Labor adds 30–50% if you hire out any portion. The biggest cost variables are battery bank size, solar capacity, and cabinetry materials.

Can I live in a van full time legally?

Van dwelling legality varies by city and county. Federal land (BLM, National Forest) allows free dispersed camping for 14-day stays in most areas. Many cities prohibit overnight vehicle dwelling, though enforcement varies significantly. Practical strategies: rotate parking areas every few nights, use a stealth van build (no obvious modifications visible from outside), and keep a Harvest Hosts or Thousand Trails membership for reliable overnight parking. States with the most van-friendly laws: Oregon, Nevada, New Mexico, and most rural Western states.