Renovating caravan cupboards: complete step DIY guide

If you’re new to the scene, then there’s no doubt that a caravan renovation can seem like a daunting process. Where do you even start? Instead of tackling it all at once, it helps to break it up into smaller, more manageable projects. And one of the tasks with the biggest aesthetic impact is renovating caravan cupboards!

With just a few handy tricks and tips, you can instantly transform the look of your caravan without diving into a full-blown rehaul. Consider it the perfect way to dip your toes in the renovation water. We’ll walk you through some great cupboard ideas so that you can get this project up and running ASAP!

Safety Disclaimer: We are not certified builders or carpenters. This is only an introductory guide to renovating caravan cupboards so make sure to do your own in-depth research and consult appropriate professionals before beginning.

Tips for renovating caravan cupboards

Wondering how to renovate a caravan? Keep it simple and start small. Caravan cupboards are a very prominent feature inside your caravan, and with just a little touch-up, you can completely change the look and feel. Here are some tips to help you out!

1. Consider a coat of paint

Start with the basics. Instead of ripping out those old cupboards, take a look at whether a fresh coat of paint could do the trick.

Wood cabinets are ideal for painting! However, almost any surface can be taken back with sandpaper and then painted over. You can go for fresh white paint to really brighten up the interior and create a sense of more space, or opt for a darker hue for a cosier, more dramatic look.

Simply unhinge the doors, sand them back and paint that first coat. Add a second coat and once it’s dry, pop the doors back on again.

The great thing about paint is that it’s fun, cheap and you can redo it over the years every time you want to revive the look of your caravan!

2. Go for acrylic

If you’re looking for a fresh, modern look, then you can’t go wrong with acrylic. This hard-synthetic, high-quality plastic offers a durable surface that is a great alternative to glass.

You can remove each of your cupboard doors and use putty to attach the acrylic, allowing it to dry before you reattach. Of course, you’ll need to be able to cut it to size, and then hold it in place until it dries.

It’s something you can attempt on your own, or bring in a builder for a little work.

3. Get new handles

You don’t even need to touch the doors of your cupboards to completely change the way they look. Instead, just update the handles.

It’s true that the handles go through a lot of wear and tear over time with use. Simply unscrewing them and screwing in new ones is one of the simplest ways to breathe new life into your cupboards.

It means you can also go for whatever look you choose, from ultra-modern to sticking with a vintage caravan renovation. There are all sorts of different handles on the market, so shop around and have some fun!

4. Refinish the cupboards

Wood is a great look for cupboards and one you might want to keep! Instead of repainting them, choose to refinish them instead. It can be quicker, easier and cheaper with these steps:

1. Clean the surfaces

2. Strip the wood: you need to work out what stripping agent is required. Each one has a different use, so it helps to do your research!

3. Sand, prime and then varnish the wood.

Try out different caravan cupboards before you renovate

There’s one very easy way to work out exactly what you want when it comes to renovating caravan cupboards. Try before you build!

Camplify AU has several different caravans for you to test out, so you can get a really good idea of the look and feel you’re going after for your own renovation. They do say that imitation is the highest form of flattery, so why not try and get your inspiration from others who have been there, done that?

Here are some of our favourites for you to check out:

MudDuck

If you are into the darker look, then check out this greatcouple’s caravan. It really highlights how a simple change of handles can completely transform the look and feel of your caravan.

Klaudia

Wondering whether or not the acrylic look is for you? Klaudia is the perfect example of how you can give your caravan an instant modern uplift with acrylic cupboards. Rent it today!

Getaway

If you’re tempted by the wooden look, then take a peek at Getaway. With just a simple sand back and refinish, you can bring new life to your wooden cupboards and make them feel new again.

Start renovating caravan cupboards today

Looking for caravan renovation ideas? With these tips and a little inspiration behind you, you’re ready to dive in and start renovating caravan cupboards. Once you start, you’ll quickly realise how small changes can have the biggest impact! And when you’re done, you can rent out your own caravan on Camplify and get a return on your investment!

Earn extra income from your caravan

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, 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 renting out your unused caravan!