Building a Lightweight Modular Campervan: Less Is More
A GearJunkie writer explains why his new Ford Transit campervan build rejects the industry-standard approach of packing in every amenity, after realizing his bone-stock rental drove better than his heavily modded, feature-laden previous vans. His philosophy: build only for the 90% use case (fixed platform bed, front seats only, robust battery/solar system) while leaving occasional-use items like hot showers and hydraulic beds at home as portable add-ons, since excess weight—not suspension—was actually killing handling, fuel economy, and reliability. It's a practical framework for anyone designing a van build around weight discipline and modularity rather than showroom appeal.