Van Lab turns your SUV into a very practical camper

Many van drivers are converting their vehicles into efficient campers capable of spending one or several nights out in the countryside. To do this, they take them to specialised workshops or, for lighter conversions, they add removable modules that equip the vehicle for camping. The good thing about these modules is that they can also be fitted to other types of vehicle, such as SUVs.

This is the purpose of Van Lab, which has created a module that, given its size, can be added to several SUV models. From the Model X or the Model Y, the Toyota RAV4 or the Jeep Cherokee, among others, are all capable of accommodating Van Lab’s SUV Kit. This module offers a complete set of equipment for enjoying the outdoors and leisure time.

The camper module is made of laminated wood and contains several elements that meet a range of camping needs, from sleeping to cooking during your stay. The SUV kit includes a gas cooker, which can run on either propane or butane, a portable toilet that can be deployed when needed, and a comfortable sleeping area.

This element can be deployed over the folded rear seats, acting as a bed base. Mattresses can be placed on top of it for a comfortable night’s sleep. The module also has a worktop-style surface where food can be prepared and which can even be used as a table if necessary.

As for storage, there are several spaces for storing pots, pans, glasses and cutlery, among other things. There is even space for a fridge with a capacity of up to 30 litres. The module can be completed with other items, such as cushions to form a comfortable 191 x 130 centimetre mattress to sleep on.

The curious thing about Van Lab’s proposal is that the module is sold disassembled and with instructions for fitting it to the SUV. The kitchen-only kit weighs 30 kg and costs 1,510 euros. If the bed is added, the weight rises to 47 kg, with a price of 1,970 euros, and if the cushions for sleeping are added, 360 euros must be added to the total, so the complete kit costs around 2,340 euros. For now, it is only sold in the United States, but it may be possible to buy it and have it delivered to any corner of the world.