While the Ford Transit camper may not enjoy the same fame as its counterparts – such as the Mercedes Sprinter or VW Crafter – it deserves its turn in the spotlight. And this van tour shows us why.
Bear by name, adventure by nature, this bespoke Ford Transit conversion from Born Wild Vans packs all the rugged charm you’d expect from a home on wheels, but with a whimsical twist.
Built for all-season adventures, this long-wheelbase van has a fully-equipped off-grid electric system, a wood-burning stove, cosy sofa-style seating, and an outdoor shower. Every inch has been carefully crafted to be your perfect off-grid companion, whether you’re heading to the highlands or chasing waves.
Ready to see what Bear’s got in store? Buckle up—you’re in for a wild ride…
Base Vehicle Specification
Key features:
↠ Manufacturer: Ford
↠ Model: Transit (high roof, long wheelbase)
↠ Fuel: Diesel
↠ Converted by: Born Wild Vans
Ford Transit Camper Interior – Van Tour
Inside the van is where adventure meets artistry. With deep blue hues setting a dramatic backdrop, the space feels intimate and inviting.
The natural wood ceiling provides a warm, earthy contrast to the striking blue cabinetry, and whimsical accents, like the starlit lighting and the moon-and-star cutouts near the bed, lend a sense of magic to the space.
Mexican Hammock Co. tiles bring a burst of personality to the kitchen, grounding it with a playful, eclectic touch. And of course, the centrepiece—the Cubic Mini wood stove—adds a cosy, off-grid charm.
Van Conversion Layout
This Ford Transit camper van conversion has a unique layout, thanks to the L-shaped sofa-style seating – which provides one of the comfiest lounging areas we’ve seen. This is complete with a pull-out Scottish elm dining table—perfect for sharing meals or working on the go— and of course the pièce de résistance: the log burner.
The galley-style kitchen, featuring an extending worktop, ensures ample space for cooking.
Pass through the magical arch, and there’s a widthways master bed at the back of the van, offering a spacious sleeping setup for two.
With clever campervan storage solutions and even an outdoor shower, Bear’s layout makes life on the road both stylish and efficient.
Key features:
↠ Unique L-shaped sofa-style seating with log burner
↠ Pull-out Scottish elm table
↠ Widthways master bed (sleeps 2)
↠ Galley-style kitchen with extending worktop
↠ Ample storage with overhead, drawer, garage, wine, and bench seating storage
↠ Outdoor shower
↠ Hidden camping toilet under lounge seat
↠ Cubic Mini wood burner
↠ Hatch access hatch to passenger seat
Seating & Sleeping
Doubling-down on cosy cabin vibes, the layout of this Ford campervan has been carefully crafted with relaxation in mind.
The L-shaped sofa-style bench seat serves as a spacious lounging area, complete with plush cushions and a great view from the sliding door.
Moving towards the back of the camper, a whimsical archway, adorned with cosmic elements, separates the sleeping area from the living area; we love how that separates the space. The master bed, positioned widthways, provides ample space for two to sleep comfortably.
Key features:
↠ Widthways master bed for two
↠ L-shaped sofa seating around the wood burner
↠ Pull-out Scottish elm dining table
🔍 Click photos to expand
Plumbing & Bathroom
Although they may not be immediately apparent, this Ford Transit van conversion does have a toilet and shower!
Hidden beneath the lounge seat, the discreet camping toilet offers an easy-to-use solution when nature calls, while keeping the aesthetic clean and uncluttered.
As for the shower, Bear is equipped with an outdoor hot/cold shower located at the rear barn door. Hot water comes courtesy of a Truma 4e Combi hot water and heating system.
Key features:
↠ Truma 4e Combi hot water and heating system
↠ Fully winterized under-slung water tanks
🔍 Click photos to expand
This setup shines in versatility. An outdoor shower is perfect for rinsing off muddy paws (or boots), washing down surfboards or hiking gear, or simply refreshing yourself after a day at the beach—all without worrying about condensation building up inside the van. Not to mention, the outdoor setup means you can maintain more space inside the van for living and lounging.
However, while this an outdoor campervan shower is great for adventure-focused trips, it may be limiting if you’re planning to live full-time on the road, especially in urban areas or cold climates where outdoor showering may not be practical. Many vanlifers on extended journeys often turn to gym showers, campsites, or other facilities when an indoor shower isn’t available, so it all comes down to your lifestyle and how you plan to use your van.
Kitchen & Dining
The galley-style kitchen in Bear is decked out in rich wooden countertops, featuring bespoke cabinetry in calming blue tones.
The kitchen is not only visually stunning but also fully equipped for adventure, with a spacious butler-style ceramic sink, a Thetford triplex oven, and beautiful handmade tiles from the Mexican Hammock Co., giving the space a unique, eclectic charm. The kitchen also includes a 50L compressor fridge and an extending worktop, perfect for meal prep.
We saw a similar kitchen layout in this Citroen Relay campervan; it just works. Everything you need is within arm’s reach, and it uses limited space, providing both function and flow, making cooking in small quarters easier – especially when travelling as a couple.
A pull-out Scottish elm table offers a comfortable space for dining.
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 and wooden countertops
↠ Handmade tiles from Mexican Hammock Co.
↠ Extending worktop
↠ 50L compressor fridge
↠ Butler-style ceramic sink
↠ Matt black mixer tap
↠ Gas hob
↠ Thetford triplex oven
↠ Compact Gas Safe system and locker
↠ Scottish elm table
🔍 Click photos to expand
Storage
From the bespoke, handcrafted overhead cabinets that line one side of the campervan, to the cute storage nooks on the rear barn doors, the custom wine rack, and the hanging space for wetsuits, there’s tons of storage in this van build.
What we admire most about this campervan floor plan and storage space, is how well the pros at Born Wild Vans have designed the van to suit the owner’s lifestyle (which we assume features wine drinking, wetsuit-clad adventure pursuits, and chilling out!)
Key features:
↠ Overhead cabinets
↠ Bespoke kitchen drawers & cupboards
↠ Handmade shelving to rear door
↠ Bench seat storage
↠ Custom leather handles
↠ Custom storage for shoes and logs
↠ Wine rack
↠ Hanging space for wetsuits
↠ Garage cargo area
🔍 Click photos to expand
Lighting
Lighting in a small space can make all the difference. In this Ford Transit campervan conversion the aesthetic is enhanced with a combination of well-located spotlights, at ceiling level, with reading lights by the bed.
But the real cosy-cosmic factor is thanks to the starlit ceiling – created by adding fairylights to the rustic wood-clad ceiling.
Key features:
↠ Ceiling spotlights (dimmable)
↠ Starlit ceiling
↠ Reading lights (bedroom)
🔍 Click photos to expand
Heating
The heating system in Bear combines the efficiency of a Truma 4e Combi with the charm of a Cubic Mini wood-burning stove, offering the best of both worlds for heating the campervan interior.
The Truma 4e Combi provides instant, reliable heat and hot water, making it perfect for cold mornings or evenings when you need warmth on demand.
On the other hand, the Cubic Mini wood stove adds a rustic, off-grid vibe, creating a cosy atmosphere while serving as a backup heat source.
Together, these two systems ensure that Bear remains warm and comfortable in all seasons.
Key features:
↠ Truma 4e Combi heating system
↠ Cubic Mini wood stove
🔍 Click photos to expand
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Ford Transit Campervan Exterior
The outside of the van has been left largely untouched, except for the inclusion of rear and side windows (opening, double-glazed), and a large rooflight.
Windows
The windows in Bear’s van build offer more than just panoramic views—they’re key to the excellent ventilation throughout the space, and they add a stylish touch to the overall design.
In this conversion, the side and rear windows are all double-glazed – to avoid condensation.
The privacy-tinted porthole window, in particular, has become a bit of a hallmark in Born Wild Vans‘ conversions, adding a playful yet practical feature. We’ve seen it before in their Peugeot Boxer build, and it’s just as charming here, blending functionality with a signature design that makes these vans truly stand out.
Key features:
↠ Double-glazed windows to side (2)
↠ Double-glazed window to rear door (1)
↠ Privacy-tinted porthole window to kitchen (1)
🔍 Click photos to expand
Rooflights
A Dometic Heki 3 Rooflight above the bed in Bear is a standout feature, offering an unparalleled connection to the night sky.
Perfect for stargazing, this extra-large rooflight fills the van with natural light during the day and provides a clear view of the stars at night, creating a cosy yet expansive atmosphere in the sleeping area.
Ford Transit Camper Conversion with Off-grid Power Set-up
If you’re aiming for true off-grid freedom, Bear’s electrical setup has you covered.
Equipped with a powerful 300w solar panel, Victron smart solar controller, and LiFePO Lithium Battery, it ensures your van stays charged even when you’re far from a plug.
The DC-DC charger allows the battery to be replenished from the engine as you drive, while the Easyplus System with 800W inverter enables you to power larger appliances—like laptops or kitchen gadgets—right from the battery.
This setup is ideal, whether you’re an experienced vanlifer chasing full-time van life in the UK, or just getting started on your weekend getaways. With reliable and efficient electrics like this, you’ll stay powered up no matter where your wanderlust takes you.
Fully Loaded Off-Grid Electrical System
Key features:
↠ LiFePO Lithium Battery
↠ 300W Solar Panel
↠ Victron Smart Solar Controller
↠ DC-DC charger
↠ Easyplus System with 800W Inverter
Vanlife Verdict: Conclusion
Bear is a campervan conversion that fully embraces adventure and wanderlust. Born Wild Vans have created a home on wheels that feels not only functional but magical, with its whimsical design choices and thoughtful layout.
– Vanlife Hub Team
Whether you’re drawn to the playful porthole window, the custom handmade tiles in the kitchen, or the starlit ceiling above the wood stove, every detail contributes to a unique and inviting space.
If you’re planning extended off-grid trips, you can’t go wrong with Bear. This high top van offers an impressive combination of practical amenities—like the Cubic Mini wood stove, outdoor shower, and plenty of storage space – all while balancing comfort and capability.
Our final verdict
The conversion specialists at Born Wild Vans have mastered the art of blending wanderlust with the whimsical. This camper conversion journey showcases their attention to detail and their passion for crafting truly unique spaces, designed to suit the owner’s lifestyle. From the L-shaped seating and Scottish elm dining table to the cleverly integrated storage options, Bear proves that you can have it all… even in a small space!
With its fully loaded off-grid system, Bear is ready for whatever the road throws at you. If you’re an experienced vanlifer or just getting out there for the first time, solid vans like Bear can be trusted to show driver and passenger some wild adventures!
🌟 We love this ruggedly handsome 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 Ford Transit Van Campers
How much does it cost to convert a Transit van into a camper?
The cost to convert a Transit van into a camper can vary significantly. It depends on factors such as the layout, the quality of materials used, and whether you opt for a DIY van build or a professional conversion.
On average, a basic DIY Ford Transit camper conversion can cost anywhere from £2,000 to just insulate and furnish, to £20,000 for a full off-grid luxe set-up.
If you choose to go with a professional conversion, this can range from £20,000 to £40,000, or more.
For full conversions for long wheel base (large) panel vans such as Ford Transits or Peugeot Boxers, Born Wild Vans‘ prices start at £30,000. They also offer part or phased conversions and regularly work on smaller vehicles.
These prices don’t include the purchase of a used or new van.
It’s essential to budget carefully and consider your specific needs and preferences when planning a camper conversion project.
Which Transit is best for a campervan conversion?
The best Transit model for a campervan conversion largely depends on your lifestyle, travel preferences, and budget. The Ford Transit High Roof – Long or Extra Long (L3H3 / L4H3) – are often preferred by campervan converters due to their spacious interior.
Aside from the Ford Transit cargo van, the Ford Transit Connect and the Ford Transit Custom are popular vans to convert, too.
The Ford Connect sits in the ‘micro camper’ category, while the Ford Transit Custom is midi-sized. Both are manoeuvrable and easier to drive in urban environments. They are also more affordable than the larger Transit vans.
If you’re serious about finding an alternative to the standard Transit, you can even opt for an off-the-shelf campervan: the all-new Ford Transit Custom Nugget.
Revealed in 2023, the Nugget camper has been developed in partnership with leading camper converter Westfalia.
Available as a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), a ’tilt roof’ (AKA pop-top) and space to sleep 4 comes as standard, but there are also lots of customisation options you can add to make it your own. Mind you, it all comes at a cost – starting price is around £67,000.
In summary, it’s hard to conclusively say which Transit is best for campervan conversion, it really comes down to size – they’re all very different vans.
How big is the bed in a Ford Transit campervan?
The size of the bed in a Ford Transit campervan depends of the orientation – east-west (widthwise), or north-south (longitudinal).
Once insulated and lined with 1/4″ plywood, the maximum length across the back (from side to side) is approx. 70″, so 5’10”.
Hence, an east-west (widthwise) bed in a Ford Transit campervan will be 70″ long. The length of a standard double in the UK is 75″. The width is customisable based on your layout. The van featured in this van tour, has an extra-wide east-west bed, thanks to an extending section over a seated area.
A north-south (longitudinal) bed in a Ford Transit campervan will be up to 70″ wide. This is 10″ wider than a king-size bed (UK). The length is customisable based on your layout.
What are the disadvantages of the Ford Transit?
There are a few perceived disadvantages of the Ford Transit, namely corrosion and reliability, and also rumoured issues with the newer Euro 6 engines.
However, Ford has made significant improvements over time, and newer iterations of the Transit have addressed many of the corrosion and reliability concerns.
In fact, Ford was named the ‘Most Reliable Van Manufacturer’ in the 2023 FN50 Index. Additionally, the Transit received the prestigious title of ‘Best Large Van‘ from Parker’s in 2023, who praised its all-round ability and cutting-edge electric technology.
As a camper conversion project, one potential drawback is that there is less space internally compared to similar vans, such as the Mercedes Sprinter camper, VW Crafter campervan, and MAN TGE camper van.
Additionally, the interior curves van lead to a slower build than ‘boxier’ vans, such as the Citroen Relay campervan.
What is high mileage for a Transit van?
It’s reasonable to say that anything over 200,000 miles would be considered ‘high mileage for a Transit van’, but when cared for well with regular servicing, they have been known to reach up to 400,000 miles.
If you are considering buying a Ford Transit van, it’s important to research its history – service history and general history.
Find out as much as you can about:
(1) The type of journeys its been used for – long motorway journeys are typically less taxing for diesel engines than city miles, for example.
(2) Whether it’s been carrying heavy loads – this may present issues for the suspension.
(3) Where it’s been stored – vans stored outdoors in coastal areas can suffer much more corrosion.
Once you know as much as you can, you can get the van checked over and make an informed decision.
Happy travels!
Excellent idea having a Mimi Log Burner in the camp van..specially for Retired people..Very interesting!!