10 Critical Questions below:
Q1. Space Planning and Dimensions
SUV rear seats folded flat typically yield 6–8 feet (1.8–2.4m) in length and 4–5 feet (1.2–1.5m) in width (varies by model). This is sufficient for 1–2 people to sleep (twin/full-size sleeping pad fits) and allows limited movement (sitting up, changing clothes), but full standing is impossible.
Q2. Vehicle Compatibility
Most modern SUVs fold nearly flat, but many have a slight slope or gap between seats and cargo floor. For a level bed, use:
- Foam/topper to fill gaps
- Custom plywood platform to level the surface
Q3. Storage Design
Maximize space with:
- Heavy-duty drawer slides (500lbs/250lbs full-extension) for under-bed drawers
- Side wall storage pockets, overhead nets, and seat-back organizers
- Utilize spare tire well, wheel wells, and under-floor compartments
- Modular storage bins (stackable, lockable) for gear organization
Q4. Power System
Essential for camping; core components:
- Solar panel (100–200W) + charge controller + deep-cycle battery (100–200Ah)
- Inverter (300–1000W pure sine wave) for AC devices
- 12V fridge, LED lighting, USB charging ports
- Optional: secondary battery, shore power hookup
Q5. Ventilation and Heat Insulation
- Ventilation: Roof vent/fan (e.g., MaxxAir), side window vents, cracked windows with rain guards
- Insulation: Closed-cell foam, reflective foil, carpet/liners on floors/walls
- Sun protection: Windshield sunshade, window covers, reflective tarp
Q6. Waterproofing and Sealing
- Seal roof seams, window frames, and door gaps with butyl rubber tape or silicone sealant
- Use waterproof covers for roof tents, awnings, and gear
- Install rain gutters and drainage channels
- Keep a portable dehumidifier to prevent mold
Q7. Safety (Center of Gravity & Load Capacity)
- Stay within GVWR (gross vehicle weight rating) – check door jamb sticker
- Distribute weight low and centered (avoid heavy items on roof)
- Secure all gear with tie-downs, latches, and heavy-duty slides
- Test handling after conversion (braking, cornering)
Q8. Legality & Insurance
- Canada-specific:
- Most basic conversions (bed, storage) are legal if no structural changes
- Permanent plumbing/gas may require certification
- Check provincial laws (e.g., Ontario, BC) for camper regulations
- Insurance: Notify your provider – some cover modifications; add "camper endorsement" if needed
Q9. Function Expansion
- Simple kitchen: Slide-out counter, portable stove, cooler/12V fridge, sink (hand pump or 12V)
- Bathroom: Portable toilet (Thetford/Cassette), privacy curtain, collapsible wash basin
- Use locking & side-mount heavy-duty slides for safety and space efficiency
Q10. Cost Budget
- Basic (bed + storage): $500–$1,500 (plywood, foam, slides, basic tools)
- Mid-range (add power + kitchen): $2,000–$5,000 (solar, battery, inverter, stove, fridge)
- High-end (full system): $6,000–$15,000+ (insulation, roof vent, permanent kitchen, bathroom, lithium battery)
Purchase Suggestion (Canadian Buyers)
For reliable heavy-duty drawer slides (full-extension, locking, side-mount) for your SUV camper conversion, visit:
http://ym-hardwares.com