Sprinter van conversion ideas & complete DIY guide

Decided to go with a Mercedes Sprinter? Good choice! The Sprinter van is a popular option for DIY van conversion in Australia thanks to its spaciousness and functionality. But how can you now get the most out of your Sprinter van conversion?

Be inspired by our list of 30 Sprinter van conversions from all over Australia, including photos and links to more information.

Then follow along with our step-by-step guide to a DIY Sprinter van conversion. We walk you through every part of the budgeting, buying, planning and building process. Plus, we reveal how you can earn a return on your investment!

Safety Disclaimer: We are not certified builders, carpenters, electricians or plumbers. This is only an introductory guide to DIY Sprinter van conversions so make sure to do your own in-depth research and consult appropriate professionals before beginning the build.

Earn up to $10,000 a year by hiring out your Sprinter campervan conversion - sign up to Camplify today.

30 DIY Sprinter van conversion ideas

Use Camplify to take a peek into privately-owned Sprinter campervans all around Australia. Flick through the photos and source endless ideas for your own DIY Sprinter van conversion.

Find a conversion you like? Use Camplify to arrange campervan hire in Australia and “try before you buy” your own Sprinter van!

To make life even easier for you, here are 30 great Sprinter conversions we’ve found:

1. Dandy (Noosaville, QLD)

Base van: 2015 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Clean and modern van conversion with timber cladding, front kitchen and rear double bed fixed lengthways.

2. Yotchi (Byron Bay, NSW)

Base van: 2020 Sprinter High Roof Medium Wheel Base | Sleeps: 2

Bright van conversion with front storage, middle lounge, rear convertible bed and rooftop recliner.

3. Sammy the Sprinter (Avondale Heights, VIC)

Base van: 2010 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Modern van conversion with front kitchen, middle lounge and rear fixed bed.

4. Lunar (Moggill, QLD)

Base van: 1998 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Clean van conversion with front kitchen and rear fixed bed.

5. Bae (Warradale, SA)

Base van: 2002 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Beach-themed conversion with front storage, rear kitchen and convertible bed.

6. The Wandering Van (Elsternwick, VIC)

Base van: 2012 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Chic van conversion with front kitchen, rear lounge and convertible bed.

7. Roamie (Fortitude Valley, QLD)

Base van: 2009 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Light and bright conversion with front kitchen, middle lounge and rear fixed bed.

8. Luxury Camper (Winmalee, NSW)

Base van: 2004 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 1

Modern van conversion with front kitchen, rear lounge and convertible bed.

9. Ava (Redfern, NSW)

Base van: 2010 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Surf-themed conversion with front kitchen, rear fixed bed and ceiling surfboard storage.

10. Reba VanEntire (Port Melbourne, VIC)

Base van: 2016 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Comfortable conversion with front bathroom, middle kitchen and lounge, rear convertible bed, roof recliner and rear storage.

11. Home Comforts (Turramurra, NSW)

Base van: 2017 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Stylish van conversion with front lounge, middle kitchen and bathroom and rear bed and storage.

12. Stealthy Van Away (Haberfield, NSW)

Base van: 2013 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Simple and spacious van conversion with front kitchen and rear fixed bed.

13. Winny (Maroochydore, QLD)

Base van: 2000 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Bright and chic conversion with front kitchen, middle lounge and rear fixed bed.

14. Festival Camper (Melbourne, VIC)

Base van: 2009 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Private and shady van conversion with front dining area, rear fixed bed and slide-out kitchen.

15. The Sprinter (Rangeville, QLD)

Base van: 2015 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Sophisticated and modern conversion with front kitchen, middle lounge and rear fixed bed.

16. Sexy Sprinter (Gold Coast, QLD)

Base van: 2021 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Simple van conversion with fixed rear bed and slide-out kitchen and storage.

17. Living the Dream (Manly, NSW)

Base van: 2021 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Sophisticated and modern conversion with front dining, middle bathroom and kitchen and fixed rear bed.

18. Van Halen (West Beach, SA)

Base van: 2010 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Bright and airy van conversion with front kitchen, rear lounge and convertible bed.

19. Gypsy Wanderer (Byron Bay, NSW)

Base van: 2005 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Simple van conversion with heaps of storage and fixed rear bed.

20. Sandy (Middle Park, VIC)

Base van: 2006 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Modern and spacious timber-clad conversion with front kitchen, middle dining and rear fixed bed.

21. Sadie (Charlestown, NSW)

Base van: 2016 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Timber-clad conversion with front storage, rear fixed bed and slide-out kitchen.

22. Coastline (Miranda, NSW)

Base van: 2013 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Van conversion with tons of storage, front kitchen, rear lounge and convertible bed.

23. Boutique (Brisbane, QLD)

Base van: 2013 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 3

Chic van conversion with front kitchen and rear fixed bed.

24. Sunny the Sprinter (Kiama, NSW)

Base van: 2015 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

A retro-themed conversion with front kitchen, rear lounge and convertible bed.

25. Sprout Van (South Melbourne, VIC)

Base van: 2013 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Sophisticated van conversion with front kitchen, middle dining and rear fixed bed.

26. Luxury AdventureMobile (St Kilda, VIC)

Base van: Mercedes Sprinter LWB High-top 313 CDI | Sleeps: 3

Clever van conversion with front bathroom, kitchen, middle lounge and rear bed.

27. Trixie (Hobart, TAS)

Base van: 2014 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Timber-clad conversion with front kitchen, rear raised bed and tonnes of storage.

28. Woody (Sunshine Coast, QLD)

Base van: 2003 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Beach-themed conversion with front kitchen, middle lounge and rear fixed bed.

29. V’Anne-Jul (East Devonport, TAS)

Base van: 2005 Mercedes Sprinter 313 CDI | Sleeps: 2

Spacious van conversion with front bathroom, kitchen, rear lounge and convertible double bed.

30. Boho Bus (Coolum Beach, QLD)

Base van: 2009 Mercedes Sprinter | Sleeps: 2

Airy van conversion with front lounge, middle kitchen and bathroom and rear fixed bed.

DIY Sprinter Van conversion guide

1. Choose a model of Sprinter van

You can’t go wrong with a Mercedes Sprinter. Its high-end design, European engineering and large interior make it one of the best campervans to buy. However, if you’re still not 100% sure about the Sprinter, you may want to compare it with some of the other best vans for camper conversion.

There are 3 models of Mercedes Sprinter vans. Each varies in length, height and powertrain:

• Cargo

• Passenger

• Crew.

The Cargo model is the best option for most DIY Sprinter van conversions. It is designed for hauling large and bulky items. This means that the rear is empty and you don’t have to strip out passenger seats. It is also the least expensive model but it has the largest payload capacity.

The Crew van is also a great option if you want to travel with your kids. It has a removable row of seats in the rear. Plus, it has windows, which saves you the hassle of having to cut into the wall of your Sprinter and install your own.

The high-top option is a sound choice for a Sprinter conversion because it provides enough clearance to add a bunk bed and extra storage. On the other hand, standard height Sprinters are easier to drive, manoeuvre and park.

When it comes to wheelbases , consider opting for the 170-inch extended option. Every extra inch of space counts in a DIY Sprinter conversion. However, note that a longer wheelbase also makes the van less manoeuvrable, particularly when off-roading.

2. Design your van layout

Space is limited in your DIY Sprinter van conversion. This van conversion layout guide will teach you how to best arrange fixtures so that your campervan layout is stylish, comfy and functional.

Start by considering these questions:

• How many people will be staying in the van?

• How much space do we want to walk around?

• Will we mostly be cooking inside or outside the van?

• Will we mostly be dining inside or outside the van?

• Do we want a fixed bed (less hassle) or a convertible bed (more free space)?

• Should we add a roof bed or bunk beds? (High roof models)

• What kind of items will we be storing?

• Do we need dedicated storage for long or bulky items?

• Where would I like the windows to be positioned?

• Where will ventilation be most effective?

• Do we want a private bathroom in the van?

Once you’ve decided which fixtures and features to include in your floor plan, map the layout using pen and paper or online software like Vanspace.

Alternatively, if you’d rather skip all the time and effort that goes into designing and building your Sprinter van layout, you could simply invest in one of the best campervan conversion kits.

3. Prep the van

Totally empty the rear of the van so that you have a bare floor and walls. You want to have a nice empty workspace so that you can access every nook and cranny of your DIY Sprinter van conversion.

4. Mark your layout

Test your layout before you start converting your Sprinter.

Put down electrical tape or cardboard cutouts in the rear of the van to show where the different fixtures will be positioned. This will give you a good visual indication of what works and what doesn’t in your DIY Sprinter van conversion.

If you notice any issues, redesign the layout accordingly.

5. Cut out and install the windows and ventilation

On the walls of the Sprinter cargo van, you will see flat panels which can be cut out with a jigsaw or angle grinder. These are the best places to install windows without damaging the structural integrity of the van.

Don’t worry, cutting the side of your Sprinter van and installing windows is easier than it sounds. However, it can be made even easier if you use a window fitting kit designed specifically for Mercedes Sprinters.

It’s best to use rubber-mounted windows when doing a DIY Sprinter van conversion. The rubber frame can easily be slotted into the hole that you’ve cut. Plus, many of them can be slid open to let in fresh air.

Adding a roof ventilation system will also help airflow in your Sprinter campervan, which in turn prevents moisture and mould from building up inside.

Pop-up ventilation hatches are an affordable option if you’re on a tight budget. But if you’re willing to spend just a little bit more, fan ventilation is better at drawing smells and moisture out of the vehicle. Plus, fan hatches have the added benefit of pulling in cool air during hot summer months.

For more information, read our full guide to van ventilation.

6. Install insulation and sound dampening

In Australia, it can be stinking hot one moment and freezing cold the next. You’ll want to insulate the walls, floor and ceiling of your Sprinter van conversion so that you’re cool in summer and warm in winter.

In Australia, the most popular van insulation options are:

• Foamboard

• Spray foam

• Fibreglass

• Reflective Foil

• Sheep’s wool

Most campervan conversions tend to use a combination of foam board and spray foam. However, all forms of insulation have their pros and cons, so research which ones suit your budget and travel plans.

Consider also lining the walls and wheel hubs with sound dampening material. This helps to minimise road sounds whilst driving. Plus, it won’t be so loud inside your van when you’re trying to sleep at noisy campsites and holiday parks.

And don’t forget your windows. Create a set of DIY campervan curtains to quickly and easily insulate the most vulnerable part of your Sprinter van conversion.

For more information, see our guide tovan insulation.

7. Install the flooring

When it comes time to choose your Sprinter van conversion flooring, you have a heap of options :

• Cork

• Vinyl plank

• Sheet vinyl

• Rubber

• Laminate

• Hardwood

• Bamboo

• Carpet

Whilst your pick will come down to personal preference, remember that you want your flooring to be thin, durable and easy to clean.

Vinyl plank is one of the most popular options in modern Sprinter vans because it is affordable, durable and sold in packages that are easy to assemble and customise.

Also, consider whether you want to install your floor around the fixtures (e.g. cupboards). This requires a little more planning and cutting, but it looks clean when done right. Alternatively, you can simply lay the floor and mount fixtures on top.

For more information, please see our full guide to flooring your van conversion.

8. Install solar panels and the electrics

Start by reading our guide to the best solar panel kits for a campervan and calculate the size of solar panel you need to power your Sprinter van conversion.

Some modern Sprinter van conversions have both 12-volt (battery) and 240-volt (mains) electrical circuits.

Whilst you are allowed to work on your own DIY 12-volt circuit , the law requires that only a qualified electrician can work on any part of a 240-volt circuit. Once the electrician is finished installing and testing the 240-volt system, they will issue your Sprinter van with an Electrical Safety Certificate and sticker (Australian New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3001).

Hire a professional electrician if you want 240-volt electrical circuits in your DIY Sprinter van conversion. Not only is the job dangerous, but it is complex and requires expert knowledge.

You can install your own 12-volt circuit for powering things like LED lights and a camping fridge. However, be warned that even this still requires some knowledge of electronics.

For more information, please see our full guide to a van electrical system setup.

9. Install lighting

When it comes to installing lights in your Sprinter van conversion, 12V LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) are the best option.

Learn how to wire LEDs in your campervan with our full guide to van conversion lighting installation.

10. Install water & plumbing

You’ll likely want running water in your Sprinter van conversion for showering, washing hands and cleaning dishes.

Most DIY Sprinter van conversions have simple water systems that include:

• Sink and tap

• Water pump

• Freshwater tank

• Greywater tank

• Tubing and piping

• Gas hot water system

Further, most people choose to store the freshwater tank in the rear of their Sprinter van, under the bed. Run some tubing from the freshwater tank to the kitchen and/or shower (if you have one). Once the water flows through the sink, gravity drains it into a grey water tank in the cupboard below.

When DIY converting a Sprinter van, a lot of people settle for a simple water pump. However, if you are willing to spend a little bit more, an accumulator will provide higher water pressure.

Please see our full guide to setting up a campervan water system

11. Build a bathroom (optional)

Most DIY Sprinter van conversions have a basic bathroom that includes a toilet and/or shower. This will save you from always having to rely on campground facilities.

A bathroom setup can be as simple as having a portable toilet and an outdoor shower attached to the freshwater tank.

Alternatively, you can go for something a bit more sophisticated and build a small interior bathroom. Often in Sprinter vans, interior bathrooms are positioned opposite the kitchen in the centre of the van. However, this is a complicated project that requires more advanced carpentry skills.

For more information, please see our full guide to building a bathroom in a van.

12. Build the bed frame and cabinetry

Building your own cupboards, drawers and sofa storage will require you to learn some basic cabinetry skills. However, this can be a lengthy process and you’ll likely make a mistake or two along the way. Expect to spend at least 2 weeks measuring, designing, cutting and joining pieces if you're a newbie.

Another easy and affordable option is to buy standard storage solutions such as drawers and cupboards from a furniture store. Find something that meets your size requirements and mount it in your Sprinter van by screwing it to the frame.

13. Put up the walls & ceiling

It’s time to cover the insulation and electrical circuits with walls and a ceiling. In Australia, some of the popular options for lining the interior of DIY Sprinter van conversions include:

• Plywood

• Shiplap or tongue and groove planks

• Aluminium composite panels

Start by installing the framing, which are strips of timber that hold your walls and ceiling to the side and roof of the van.

Then create some cardboard templates that you can use as a stencil when cutting your wall material. Cut the wall material to the required size and shape before painting the interior side your desired colour.

Wait for the paint to dry before lifting the wall into place and screwing it into the framing.

For more information, see our full guide to installing timber walls and ceilings.

14. Furnish the van

Now that all your cabinetry and plumbing is in place, you can fit out the kitchen with new appliances and fittings.

In most DIY Sprinter van conversions, you’ll find a fridge, gas hob, sink, faucet and plastic rubbish bin in the kitchen.

You can add whatever appliances and fittings you like, as long as your electrical circuit can meet the energy demands.

DIY Sprinter van conversion budget

It can cost anywhere from $5,000 - $15,000+ to undertake a DIY Sprinter van conversion. Your budget will depend on your layout, the materials you use and the scope of the project.

The approximate costs might look something like this:

• Insulation and sound dampening: $400 - $750

• Flooring: $200 - $400

• Electrical wiring: $2,000 - $4,000 (including professional 240-volt installation)

• Windows and ventilation: $250 - $1,500

• Walls and ceiling: $400 - $750

• Cabinetry: $500 - $1,500

• Water and plumbing: $250 - $500

• Bathroom: $250 - $3,000

• Kitchen: $1,000 - $2,500

• Tools and additional costs: $500 - $1,500

Doing a DIY Sprinter van conversion is more affordable than buying a brand new Sprinter campervan, which can cost up to $150,000 in Australia.

Make money from your DIY Sprinter van conversion

There’s a quick and easy way to start earning a return on your investment in a DIY Sprinter van conversion - rent it out on Camplify when it’s not in use!

Don’t just let your campervan gather dust while it sits in the driveway. Lease it out to other verified travellers on Camplify and make money from home.

Why Camplify?

Each year, heaps of Aussies earn up to $10,000 by hiring out their caravan through Camplify. It provides a quick and easy way to generate long-term passive income and earn a return on their investment.

And the best part is that Camplify takes care of many of the expenses involved in hiring out your vehicle, including:

• Comprehensive hire insurance.

• 24/7 NRMA nationwide breakdown cover for hirers.

• Dedicated customer support.

If you’re interested in joining Camplify as an owner, try our earnings calculator and see how much income you could generate each year by hiring out your unused caravan!