Hey there, Mike here.
I’ve been at Vanlife Outfitters for a few years now, helping folks with tech support, orders, and customer service. In that time, I’ve learned one thing for sure: New vanlifers almost always start with the same handful of questions.
Let’s be honest, most of us don’t read the manuals. I get it! Van builds can be super technical, and sometimes it’s easier to just call a human and get a straight answer. People want reassurance from someone who’s been there — and that’s where I come in. I’m a real vanlifer who can help you figure things out.
So, here are the 10 questions I hear almost every single day… plus the one question that actually matters most.
1. “Do you sell ?”
Short answer: If it’s on our website, yes. If we don’t carry the exact thing you’re asking about, I’ll point you to a solid alternative that’ll get the job done.
2. I want a camper van electrical system. What do I need? How much will it cost?”
This is the million-dollar (okay, maybe multi-thousand-dollar) question. The first step is figuring out what you want to power — lights and a fan? Or an induction cooktop, big fridge, and rooftop A/C?
The next step is sizing your battery bank, then adding the right charging sources (solar, alternator, shore power). Think of it like building a puzzle — all the pieces need to fit. The cost varies a lot, but starting with a load calculation will save you from overbuying or, worse, under-building.
3. “How much solar do I need for my van?”
Solar is the most romantic part of a van build to me — those panels on the roof feel like free energy. But here’s the deal: Solar should recharge your batteries, not be your only power source.
If you’re parked in cloudy Oregon for a week, solar alone ain’t gonna cut it. Most folks need a combo including solar + alternator charging (when you drive) + shore power (when you plug in). A balanced system means you’re never left sweating in the dark.
4. “How many batteries do I need to run a rooftop A/C?”
The rule of thumb I recommend is to include at least a 400Ah lithium battery bank. But the real answer depends on your van: Which A/C unit you’ve got, how often you’ll run it, and how you’ll recharge.
Also consider your travel style. Cruising through Arizona in July? You’ll use way more juice than someone camping in the Pacific Northwest. Batteries are heavy and expensive, so right-sizing matters.
5. “What size water tank should I get for my camper van?”
Start with how often you’ll refill and what you’ll use water for — sink, shower, cooking, drinking.
Here’s the tip most people miss: Water adds weight. A 30-gallon tank weighs about 250 pounds when full. That affects handling, braking, and even fuel economy. Many weekend warriors do great with 10–20 gallons, while full-timers often go 30–40.
6. “What size fridge do I need for my van?”
This isn’t just about cubic feet. It’s about lifestyle. My response to this question is usually, “Well, how much do you eat??” A couple who eats out a lot may only need a small 12V fridge. A family of four on the road will want something much bigger.
Also, think about energy use. Bigger fridges pull more power, so your electrical system has to keep up. Plan your fridge in tandem with your battery bank, not after.
7. “Do I need a shower and toilet in my van?”
Ah, the classic vanlife debate. Showers and toilets eat up space and add complexity. But for some folks, they’re non-negotiable.
There are middle-ground solutions. Portable showers, gym memberships, campground facilities, composting or cassette toilets. You don’t have to commit to a full bathroom if it doesn’t fit your build.
Most importantly, you should rent or borrow a few vans to try out for a week or two and see for yourself what works best for you.
8. “Why does this cost so much?”
Because you’re basically building a tiny, off-grid house on wheels. Quality components — lithium batteries, efficient fridges, solid plumbing — aren’t cheap.
But here’s the upside: Good gear pays off. Lithium batteries last 10+ years, solar panels can crank for decades, and quality plumbing means fewer leaks. Cut corners and you’ll end up redoing work (and spending more) down the road.
9. “Where should I put my rooftop A/C?”
Comfort is king here. I don’t like cold air blasting on me while I sleep, so I put my A/C mid-van with a fan over the bed. Where will you want that chilled A/C air blowing?
Also think about balance. Heavy rooftop units affect your van’s weight distribution and center of gravity. Placing it too far forward or backward can make a difference in how the van drives.
10. “Can you just put together everything I need and send me a list?”
I can, but only after we’ve talked through all the above. Otherwise, you’ll end up with a list that doesn’t match your actual travel style.
That said, once we know your needs, we can build you a parts list or kit that’ll save hours of shopping and second-guessing. It’s about matching your van to your life.
Reach out, and we can work through it with you: support@vanlifeoutfitters.com
The Real Question: “How Do You Plan to Use Your Van?”
All those questions above? They boil down to this: How are you going to use the van?
- Are you a weekend warrior hitting campgrounds with hookups?
- Planning to boondock off-grid for days at a time?
- Driving cross-country or parking in one spot for weeks?
- Will you be traveling with others?
Your answer shapes everything — your electrical system, solar, water setup, even whether a shower makes sense. Asking yourself this question is just as important as asking me.
And I highly recommend spending as much time camping in other vans so you can figure out what you will want in yours.
Final Thoughts
You’re not alone — everyone starts with these questions. My best advice? Don’t rush. Do the research, ask questions, and really think about how you want to live in your van.
The more you figure out now, the smoother (and more fun) your adventures will be later. And when you’re ready, Vanlife Outfitters has road-tested gear, helpful guides, and real humans (like me) to get you rolling.
Happy vannin’,
Mike
