Screening Those Small RV Conversions

RV conversion vans are probably the most fuel efficient RVs on the road today. The downside is that you are trading roominess for fuel economy. The plus side is you can fit into any RV campground space on the planet. The RV below belongs to Jim Givens (who didn’t want his picture displayed - he’s sensitive about his role in the Federal Witness Protection Program). Jim has been RVing for 30 years and has had every type of RV. He likes this Gulf Stream “Vista Cruiser” van conversion because the Mercedes diesel gets 22 miles per gallon (21 mpg when towing his VW bug). His RV style calls for more driving than parking and this rig is best suited for him. Gulf Stream didn’t think about bugs when they designed this unit because there were no screens on any of the windows. Jim solved this problem by having Phoenix Tent and Awning make screens for both his side and rear doors. These screens snap in place and have a center zipper. For additional space Jim uses an outside screen room to enhance his RV experience. There are many types of RVs that will meet your particular style of RVing. From a motorcycle pop-up tent trailer to a 45 foot, four slide-out tag axle bus there is something that will suit your needs. And like Jim, you may need to do some modifications to make your RV perfect for you. Exploring all the options on the fly - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing

Make Your Own RV Conversion Van Slide-Out

When you're on the road as much as I am you see many different kinds of RVs. I saw this cool van conversion the other day but no one was home so I couldn't get photos of the inside. But the story tells itself because this is a do-it yourself slide-out room sticking out the rear doors. The slide room is on a roll-out track system (like a big drawer) and has a window and outside storage access. I'm guessing this a bedroom but can't be sure. The canopy roll over the top of the slide-out is no doubt for weather protection. This adds a good deal of weight so the leaf springs need assistance in the form of air bags or helper springs. I know this isn't a much detail as I usually provide, but it does give you an idea of how to increase space in a conversion type RV. Keeping fresh ideas rolling your way - Jim Twamley, Professor of RVing