Free Van Bed Plans and Ideas to Build a Bed in a Van

Calling all DIY enthusiasts – we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of DIY van bed build, and we’ve got plenty of Sprinter van bed ideas to spark your creativity. Plus, we’ve included van life bed ideas that’ll work wonders for other vans too.

If you prefer a ready-to-use bed solution, we invite you to visit our store and explore our van bed offerings.

Let’s get started on making your van dreams a reality!

Building a van bench seat bed can be a practical and space-saving solution for turning your van into a comfortable camper. Below are the steps to create your own van bench seat bed:

Step 1: Measure and Plan

Measure the dimensions of your van’s interior to determine the size of the bench seat bed. Consider the space needed for other amenities such as storage, kitchenette, etc. Sketch out a design plan based on your measurements.

Step 2: Build the Frame

Using lumber, construct the frame for the bench seat and bed. Ensure the frame is sturdy enough to support the weight of sleepers. Attach the frame securely to the van’s floor and walls.

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Step 3: Cut and Assemble the Top

Gather studs to create the frame structure for the top of the bed.

Next – cut plywood sheets according to the dimensions of your frame.

Using the studs, construct the frame for the top surface. Position the studs along the edges of the plywood sheet, ensuring they are evenly spaced and securely attached. This frame will provide support and stability to the top surface, enhancing the durability of your bench seat bed.

After assembling the frame, attach the plywood sheet securely on top. Using drill saw, make holes for a ventilation. This will also reduce the final weight of the bed. 

Step 4: Attach Hinges

Attach hinges to the base of the bench seat and the top of the bed. This will allow to get access to the storage space beneath the bed, which can be utilized for storing various items.

Step 5: Cut and Assemble Plywood for the Sides

Cut plywood sheets to match the required dimensions for the sides of the frame, then securely attach them to the frame using screws to reinforce the structure of the bench seat bed

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Add any additional features such as storage compartments under the bench seat. If desired, you can paint the sides of the frame to add a decorative touch or match your van’s interior design.

Step 7: Secure the Bench to the Floor of the Van

Once the bench seat bed frame is assembled and positioned in the desired location within the van, securely fasten it to the floor using appropriate hardware such as screws or bolts. Ensure that the bench seat bed is firmly anchored to the floor to prevent movement during travel and provide stability for occupants.

Step 8: Test and Adjust

Before hitting the road, test the bench seat bed to ensure it’s comfortable and functions as intended. Make any necessary adjustments to improve stability or comfort.

Building a camper van folding bed involves creating a versatile sleeping space that can be easily converted when needed. Here’s a guide to help you build one.

Step 1: Measure and Plan

It all begins with measuring. Your van model might differ from mine, possibly featuring thicker walls or unique dimensions. Start by measuring your van’s interior to determine the length of the bed you’ll need. This ensures a customized fit tailored to your specific van model and requirements.

Step 2: Build the Frame

Now, let’s proceed with constructing the frames. We’ll need two of them for this project. As mentioned earlier, the frames are identical to the ones we discussed in detail above. You can scroll up to the van bench seat bed and revisit the comprehensive steps along with accompanying images.

Step 3: Cut and Assemble the Top

Step 4: Attach Hinges

Before finally securing the folding top to the frame using hinges and screws, make sure to measure and test its fit. Once you’re satisfied with the positioning, attach the hinges and screws to firmly fix the folding top in place.

Step 5: Cut and Assemble Plywood for the Sides

Trim plywood sheets to fit the needed measurements for the frame’s sides. Afterward, firmly fasten them to the frame using screws to strengthen the structure of the bed.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

You can enhance your foldable bed by incorporating extra features like storage compartments underneath. Additionally, if you want, you can paint the frame’s sides to add a decorative element or to complement the interior design of your van.

Step 7: Secure your New Folding Bed to the Floor of the Van

Once you’ve set up the van folding bed frame where you want it in the van, make sure to firmly attach it to the floor using the right screws or bolts. This keeps the bed steady while traveling and ensures everyone’s safe and comfy.

Step 8: Test and Adjust the Bed

Before you start your journey, give the bed a test to make sure it’s comfy and works the way you want. If needed, tweak things to make it more stable or cozy.

Hey there, van lifer! Ready to make your travel dreams cozier? Awesome, because we’re about to whip up a super comfy bed for your van adventures! Don’t worry, it’s gonna be fun and easy.

Scroll down to see what we need and how to do it.

Download free sketchup plan

Materials:

• Skorva Support Beams from Ikea: Get 3 to 4 beams depending on the size and desired strength of your bed. They cost $15 each.
• Ikea Part # 116791 Mounting Plates: You’ll need 6 to 8 pieces to secure the beams. Find them on Amazon for $8.05 for two.
• Lumber: The thickness will depend on the width of your van. You will need them if beams  are too short.
• Plywood: You’ll need 2 sheets of 5/8 plywood for the top of the platform bed.

Tools:

• Drill
• Saw
• Drill & hole saw
• Measuring tape
• Screwdriver
• Safety goggles and gloves
• Screws
• Bolts

Step 1: Measure and Plan

Measure the dimensions of your van to determine the size of lumber needed. Keep in mind the maximum length of the Skorva beams (79 7/8 inches). If necessary, supplement with additional lumber of the required thickness.

Step 2: Fix Lumber to Van

Secure the lumber to your van’s interior, ensuring it’s firmly anchored and capable of supporting the weight of the bed.

Step 3: Attach Mounting Plates

Step 4: Install Skorva Beams

Place the Skorva support beams onto the mounting plates, ensuring they’re evenly spaced and securely attached.

Step 5: Cut Plywood Sheets

Measure and cut the plywood sheets to fit the dimensions of the bed frame.

Step 6: Drill Holes for Ventilation

Drill holes in the plywood sheets to reduce weight and improve ventilation for your mattress.

Step 7: Secure Plywood to Beams

Place the plywood sheets on top of the Skorva beams and secure them in place using screws, ensuring a snug fit.

Step 8: Add Mattress

Place your mattress on top of the plywood, ensuring it fits comfortably within the bed frame. You can use Velcro straps to secure the mattress to the plywood, preventing it from sliding or moving during travel.

Step 9: Test and Enjoy

Before hitting the road, test out your newly constructed platform bed to ensure it’s sturdy and comfortable. Make any necessary adjustments for the perfect night’s sleep on your next adventure!

With this DIY platform bed, you’re not just building a place to rest; you’re crafting memories of cozy nights under the stars and waking up to breathtaking views. Happy travels and sweet dreams! 🛏️✨

FREE VAN BED PLANS

Explore these free DIY camper van bed ideas that anyone can easily undertake. Each bed comes with free Sketchup van bed frame plans, allowing you to visualize the design in 3D, download the plans, and open them in Sketchup. Adjust the dimensions as needed to suit your van size and individual requirements.

The bed options are as follows:

DIY Sliding Couch-Bed for Camper Vans

DIY Futon Bed for Camper Vans

Table Bed DIY Solution

Elevator Bed for Van

CONCLUSION

Building a camper van bed is an exciting project that can greatly enhance your van life experience. Whether you opt for a DIY bed frame using wood or an aluminum frame for added durability, the result will be a comfortable and cozy space for your adventures on the road. Alternatively, if you hit the road and enjoy the great outdoors as soon as possible, you can use our Van2b camper van beds and all other camper van conversion parts to save time and finish your project sooner.

Happy camping!