BRYAN

Bryan and the life of.

In January 2022, I purchased a vehicle named Bryan from a dealer located in Morecambe. The van was previously used to transport hikers’ luggage between hotels. Originally a minibus, I had to remove all the seats and re-register it with the DVLA as a PHGV (Private Heavy Goods Vehicle) due to its weight exceeding 3.5 tons. Its gross weight is 5.1 tons, although I don’t anticipate it reaching that capacity.

Below this text, you’ll find images and explanations of the modifications I’ve made and the items I’ve purchased. Please note that some of the links provided are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on them. This commission helps support the maintenance of this website and enables me to continue sharing valuable content related to van life, including van builds and conversions, both for newcomers and experienced enthusiasts.

Allow me to introduce you to Bryan, a remarkable VW Crafter that I acquired back in 2022. This vehicle is an absolute beast, showcasing its robust nature and versatility. Bryan’s journey began as a minibus, but is undergoing a remarkable conversion that transformed it into its current state

And so the journey began with the task of removing numerous seats from the minibus. It was no small feat, but with the help of some trusty WD40 and a little perseverance, we were able to conquer the challenge.

The interior of the minibus is gradually transforming, making way for the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. With each seat carefully taken out, we are getting closer to creating the open space we envision for our future adventures.

With unwavering determination, we pressed on, working tirelessly through the night. As we gained momentum, the process became smoother and more efficient.Bit by bit, the interior of the minibus began to undergo a remarkable transformation.

Design And Layout

It’s incredibly helpful to grab a pen and paper, sit down, and sketch out your envisioned layout. By visually mapping out your ideas, you can better understand the flow and functionality of the space.

Once you have a rough plan on paper, it’s beneficial to transfer that design into the physical realm by marking the floor of the van accordingly. This allows you to assess the available space and determine if it meets your needs. By doing so, you can ensure that you have enough room to move comfortably between the seating area, kitchen, and, most importantly, the bed.

Considering the bed placement is crucial. Some people choose to position their beds across the width of the van, while others opt for a layout along the length of the van. It’s important to assess the available space and ensure that the bed is the right size, height, and aligned in the desired direction. This will contribute to your overall comfort and satisfaction with the van’s interior design.

By taking the time to visualize, plan, and physically mark the space, you can make informed decisions about the layout, ensuring that every element of your van conversion fits together harmoniously.

Bryan, it is starting to take shape now it is a construction of the shower

Kitchen is also starting to take shape and has a large work area in the top of the worksurface is where the cooker was installed.