The Upgrade We Really Needed!
The plan: Why a semi-fixed bed made sense.
When we first started designing the van, we toyed with the idea of keeping everything flexible. Seats that pull out and convert into a bed, more seating space in ‘day mode’. The set up was clever and perfect for weekend trips but in truth, it would get old very quicky once it becomes our permanent home. So with this in mind, we decided to upgrade to a semi-fixed bed, a perfect balance of practicality and liveable freedom.
The semi-fixed design gives us a dedicated sleeping space that for the most part is made and ready to go, it does remove a lot of ‘living space’ but free’s up space underneath to keep the van as functional as possible.
Ultimately, this upgrade was a real necessity for us to travel comfortably for more than just a weekend. This decision supports our plans for long drives and back to back travel days, a good nights sleep isn’t just a nice thing to have, its a foundation that will encourage us to be the best versions of ourselves whilst seeing the beauty that surrounds us.
The Finished Bed: Built for real life
Now that the bed is built, the difference is immediate. The van feels cosier, calmer and liveable. Of course there is still an element of setup required to be in full bed mode, but certainly a lot less faff than the previous set up we had. Aurimas spent a lot of time making the bed functional and his vision came to life after some hard graft. The van space has been completely transformed. The photos show just how much the van can be adapted if a lot of thought and effort go into it.
What surprised us the most is how the change has elevated the feel of than van. Storage has far better access and the layout feels far less chaotic. Its smart and we are hoping this new design will really benefit us in the future.
The upgrade wasn’t about aesthetics alone (although, it does look incredible). It was about transforming the van into a space that supports how we will live, travel and recharge. No gimmicks, no over-engineering. Just a set up that works.
If you have read this far, then well done! I can’t wait to start sharing our travels on the blog, but I feel it’s just as important to show you all the steps we have had to take and the sacrifices we have had to make before we finally hit the road very soon!
The Before and After
✨Before✨
✨ After ✨
