The Peugeot Boxer is an excellent choice for conversion, thanks to its wide body and squarer dimensions. And beautiful ‘Skirlie’ makes the most of every inch.
Crafted by the skilled team at Born Wild Vans, Skirlie is a beautifully modern-rustic camper that brings all the comforts of home to the road.
The design embraces outdoor living seamlessly, thanks to a convenient pull-out picnic station at the rear. Plus, there’s even a dedicated dog kennel, making it an ideal choice for pet-friendly adventures!
Featuring sleeping space for up to 3 (plus pup), this dog-friendly conversion would be at home touring the Lake District, or exploring the warmer climbs of Southern Europe.
Let’s hit the road and discover what makes this high top camper van a great choice for van life enthusiasts. Join us as we explore our first Peugeot Boxer van!
TL;DR
Step inside this modern-rustic home of wheels…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Manufacturer: Peugeot
↠ Model: Boxer (high roof height, L3H2)
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Transmission: Manual
↠ Converted by: Born Wild Vans
L3H2 Peugeot Boxer Interior – Van Tour
With its soft blue cabinetry, warm wood finishes, and brass fixtures, this 3-berth campervan conversion brings a modern-rustic charm that feels like a coastal retreat on wheels.
The clever blend of natural textures and muted tones creates a cosy, inviting space, making this long wheelbase van the perfect option for a couple or small family.
Van Conversion Layout
On first look, this motorhome conversion appears fairly typical, with a fixed bed to the back of the van with garage beneath, L-shaped kitchen, and dining/workspace.
However, look a bit harder and you’ll notice the clever multi-use bed/dining configuration (forms an additional slim single bed), the spacious dog kennel beneath the main bed, and the extending picnic setup at the rear.
This is a closed bulkhead conversion (meaning there is a fixed division between the living area and the cab), but an access hatch has been cleverly included (we saw a similar idea in this VW Crafter camper).
Key features:
↠ L-shaped kitchen with extendable worktop
↠ Widthways master bed (bed #1)
↠ Dining/workspace with bench seating (converts into bed #2)
↠ Ample storage with overhead, drawer, garage, and bench seating storage
↠ Dog kennel
↠ Pull-out picnic table dining setup
↠ Access hatch to cab
Seating & Sleeping
This converted van comfortably seats and sleeps three, thanks to its innovative design features.
The primary sleeping area is a widthways fixed bed, while a clever dining setup transforms into a second single bed. There’s even space beneath the main bed for a pup to sleep, making it ideal for couples or small families travelling with pets.
Inside the van, there’s practical bench-style seating (upholstered in Harris tweed), with ample storage beneath. A hidden table conveniently tucks away under the bed when not in use, maintaining a clutter-free aesthetic while remaining an easily accessible living space for meals or work.
Key features:
↠ Widthways master bed (bed #1) with kennel beneath
↠ Dining/workspace with bench seating (converts into bed #2)
↠ Luxurious Harris Tweed upholstery
↠ Hidden drawer-style table
↠ Pull-out picnic table dining setup
At the rear, the camper transforms into an outdoor dining area. Heavy-duty sliders allow bench seats to extend from the back of the van, creating a picnic-table-style setup.
The pull-out table between the benches provides the perfect space for alfresco dining. This setup not only maximises the use of space but also brings the comforts of indoor living to the great outdoors.
🔍 Click photos to expand
Plumbing & Bathroom
Keeping things simple, there isn’t a toilet and shower in this van conversion. However, a removable PortaPotti could easily be concealed in the bench seating, with the addition of a sliding base – if your preference is to seek freedom outside campsites.
There is no hot water in this conversion.
Key features:
↠ 70L fresh water tank, mounted above the wheel arch
↠ 70L grey water tank, mounted underneath the van with a sill mounted drain point
Kitchen & Dining
The L-shaped kitchen in Skirlie combines rustic charm with a modern, coastal aesthetic.
Born Wild Vans have crafted bespoke cabinetry in soft, muted tones, complemented by warm, natural materials. The Scottish beech countertops bring a solid foundation and an earthy feel, while the brushed brass mixer tap and farmhouse sink add elegance and practicality.
Designed with efficiency in mind, the kitchen also includes a space-saving extending worktop, ideal for meal prep, or can be used as an outdoor table.
All Born Wild Vans‘ custom campers are supplied with a gas safe system and locker, which is very important to consider when converting a van.
Key features:
↠ Bespoke kitchen units
↠ Extending worktop
↠ Vitrifigo C85i CHR compressor fridge with freezer compartment (85L)
↠ Scottish beech hardwood surfaces
↠ Farmhouse sink
↠ Brushed brass mixer tap
↠ Dometic gas hob with glass lid
↠ Compact Gas Safe system and locker
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
From the bespoke, handcrafted overhead cabinets that line one side of the campervan, to the cute storage nooks, and quite possibly the most beautiful garage we’ve ever seen, there’s tons of storage in this van build.
Key features:
↠ Overhead cabinets
↠ Bespoke kitchen drawers & cupboards
↠ Alcove shelving
↠ Garage (with storage compartments)
🔍 Click photos to expand
When considering your campervan floor plan and storage space, always focus on what you need to store, to make sure that you have designed storage that suits your lifestyle.
Take this van conversion’s garage – there’s not the free format open space we often see, but if you don’t need that for large adventure gear, it’s best to have compartments that’ll keep all your smaller gear safe and rattle-free when you’re on the road.
Lighting
Lighting in a small space can make all the difference. In this Peugeot Boxer, the modern coastal aesthetic is enhanced with a combination of well-located spotlights, at ceiling level and beneath the cabinets, with reading lights by the bed.
Key features:
↠ Ceiling & under cabinet spotlights (dimmable)
↠ Reading lights (bedroom)
🔍 Click photos to expand
Heating
This campervan will stay toasty all year long, thanks to a 4KW Autoterm diesel night heater.
Definitely not the cheapest diesel heater available, Autoterm heating systems are a highly-respected, premium option. The 4KW model is an excellent choice for campervans, because this spec delivers powerful heat output while maintaining fuel efficiency, and does so with reliability.
This heater is capable of operating in extreme conditions, and its ability to quickly warm up the van, combined with its low noise levels, make it a practical solution for off-grid living.
A touchscreen controller adds convenience, and with options to control it via smartphone (modem sold separately).
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Peugeot Boxer Campervan Exterior
The outside of the van – including the body colour – has been left largely untouched, except for the inclusion of rear and side windows (opening), and two rooflights (one with extraction fan).
Windows
Offering views from nearly every angle, the windows in this van build allow for great ventilation, and they look the part, too! This is the first time we’ve seen porthole windows, and we’re a fan.
All windows have been fitted with custom blackout blinds.
Key features:
↠ Bonded side opening window (2)
↠ Porthole windows to rear (2)
↠ Custom blackout blinds
🔍 Click photos to expand
Rooflights
This campervan conversion is enhanced with two strategically placed rooflights, creating a bright and airy atmosphere. The large rooflight above the bed floods the space with natural light, giving the interior a warm, open feel.
In the kitchen, a Fiamma Turbovent overhead fan provides crucial ventilation, especially when cooking, helping to prevent moisture buildup and condensation.
Together, these skylights not only keep the van well-lit but also create a cross flow of air, allowing for better airflow throughout the space—perfect for maintaining a fresh, dry environment while on the road.
Peugeot Boxer Camper with Off-grid Power Set-up
If you’re keen to avoid plugging in to charge up, this van boasts a robust 280w solar panel, a Victron smart solar controller, and a 230ah AGM leisure battery.
Even on overcast days, you can rely on the van’s DC-DC charging system to replenish the battery directly from the engine.
Electrics configured in this way are ideal – whether you’re just hitting the road on your first weekend adventures, or you’re an experienced adventurer living full-time van life in the UK.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ 230ah AGM leisure battery
↠ 290w solar panel
↠ Victron MPPT Controller
↠ DC-DC charger
Vanlife Verdict: Conclusion
Born Wild Vans has crafted a truly special space with Skirlie. With a nod to the coastal-cottage aesthetic and the modern-rustic finishes, this dream Peugeot Boxer conversion is a perfect example of how functionality and style can coexist.
– Vanlife Hub Team
The versatile interior is a testament to Born Wild’s dedication to using high-quality, natural materials like Harris tweed and Scottish beech, which give the van a cosy, inviting atmosphere. Every detail has been tailored to make van life comfortable without losing that outdoor spirit.
This Peugeot campervan conversion is perfect for small families or couples, especially those with a four-legged travel companion. Its flexibility and off-grid capabilities ensure that it’s ready for exploration. Skirlie is not just a van, it’s a home crafted to explore the wild in style.
Our final verdict
With Skirlie, Born Wild Vans has raised the bar for Peugeot Boxer campervan conversions.
Born Wild’s commitment to using natural materials and crafting personalised interiors truly shines in this conversion. Whether you’re exploring the wild beauty of the Scottish Highlands or heading for sun-drenched coasts, Skirlie proves that satisfying your wanderlust doesn’t mean compromising on comfort or style.
With vans like this, Born Wild Vans have done what they do best: they have created a solid base for carefree vanlife-ing.
🌟 We love this bright and breezy van build from the team at Born Wild Vans. What do you think? Let us know in the comments!
Please note: Vanlife Hub’s campervan reviews are unbiased and unpaid, offering genuine insights into the intricacies of vanlife conversions. Check out more reviews: Campervan Tours and get in touch if you’d like to be featured!
Camper Van Conversion Ideas
If you’re looking to build or commission a campervan conversion, check-out these for more camper van conversion ideas:
FAQs About Peugeot Boxer Van Campers
How much does it cost to convert a Peugeot Boxer into a camper?
The cost of converting a Peugeot Boxer into a camper varies greatly.
For DIY enthusiasts, a basic conversion can start as low as £2,000 for insulation, flooring, and basic furnishings. However, if you’re aiming for a full off-grid setup with solar panels, electrical systems, and bespoke cabinetry, the cost can escalate to £20,000 or more.
If you’re seeking a professional conversion, prices generally range between £20,000 and £40,000 for a high-quality conversion. Born Wild Vans, for example, offers full conversions for larger vans like the Peugeot Boxer starting at £30,000. They also offer part or phased conversions for those looking to spread the cost over time.
It’s important to note that these prices don’t include the cost of purchasing a new or used Peugeot Boxer itself. Careful planning and budgeting based on your specific needs will ensure the cost of a van conversion doesn’t spiral.
Why is Peugeot Boxer good for a campervan?
The Peugeot Boxer is a popular choice for campervan conversions because of its distinct combination of size, affordability, weight, and ease of conversion.
With various models offering different exterior lengths—from the standard to the long-wheelbase models—the Peugeot Boxer provides ample room to integrate all the essentials of a camper.
Its boxy shape makes it easier to optimise interior space when compared to the VW Crafters and the Mercedes Benz Sprinters of this world, allowing for a more spacious east-west bed layout.
The Boxer’s durability also means it’s a reliable vehicle for those seeking adventure, offering a robust foundation for a custom camper, at a more affordable price point.
Can you stand up in a Peugeot Boxer?
Yes, you can stand up in a Peugeot Boxer L3H2 campervan conversion. The height of the Boxer, especially in the high-roof models, makes it friendly for campers, allowing full standing room with a roof height of around 1.9m.
Is the Fiat Ducato the same as the Peugeot Boxer?
Yes, the Fiat Ducato and Peugeot Boxer are essentially the same vehicle with some distinct branding and slight modifications.
They share the same platform, engines, and overall design, as both vehicles are products of the Stellantis group.
The differences between them are primarily cosmetic and relate to standard features offered by each brand. However, they have identical exterior lengths, engines, and driving dynamics, meaning that either is an excellent base for a campervan conversion.
What other vans are similar to the Peugeot Boxer?
Vans similar to the Peugeot Boxer include the Fiat Ducato, Citroën Relay, Ram Promaster, and Ford Transit.
The Ducato and Relay share the same platform as the Boxer, making them nearly identical in size, engine options, and build quality.
Whilst the Ford Transit has a slightly different design and driving dynamics, it offers a comparable exterior length and versatility for campervan conversions.
How reliable is a Peugeot Boxer?
The Peugeot Boxer is generally considered to be a reliable vehicle, particularly for long-distance travel and campervan conversions.
Its engines are built for endurance and offer good fuel efficiency, while the Boxer itself is designed to withstand heavy usage, which is ideal for a camper that’s on the road often.
Vehiclescore.co.uk is a website that rates vehicle’s reliability. Based on the average score of every Peugeot Boxer that has had a registered MOT. The website gives Peugeot Boxer’s a ‘Very Good’ reliability rating of 734/999.
While this is strong, the Mercedes Sprinter scores 896/99… Hence, you may save on the base vehicle when buying a Peugeot Boxer, but it’s important to service them regularly, as they may not have the same durability as more expensive models.
What is the most common problem with the Peugeot Boxer?
One of the most common problems reported with the Peugeot Boxer is related to electrical issues, particularly with the dashboard or sensors. These kinds of issues are not universal, and are often easily rectified.
Other than this, if you look on vehicle forums, the Boxer is complimented for its durability, long-lasting reliability, and cheaper parts, making it a solid choice for conversion into a campervan.
In our research regarding the Peugeot Boxer, one comment did make us laugh and we can’t dispute it: “Boxers have the aesthetics of a house brick.” If you can come to terms with this, the Boxer is a great choice for a campervan.
Can you get an electric Peugeot Boxer?
Yes, you can get an electric version of the Peugeot Boxer, known as the Peugeot e-Boxer.
The electric version has a dedicated electric drivetrain and offers a zero-emission alternative to the diesel-powered Boxer. It maintains the same exterior length and capacity as its diesel counterparts, so it can still be seamlessly converted into a campervan.
Whilst the electric version might have a more limited range, it’s an eco-friendly option that is increasingly being integrated into campervan conversion plans for those looking to travel more sustainably.
