Top 10 Must-Have Features for a Ford Transit Custom Camper
Converting a Ford Transit Custom into your dream camper is super exciting. And I should know! I’ve helped hundreds of clients right here in Derby do exactly that. I’m Dario, founder of Cosmic Campervans, and over the last decade I’ve travelled thousands of miles in vans like this.
Let me share what I’ve learned about the must-have features that will make your Transit Custom conversion truly amazing. I’ll cover everything from extra sleeping space to off-grid power, and even homey touches like carpet lining.
1. Pop Top Roof is a Must for Ford Transit Conversions
Customers always ask me about pop-top roofs, and I always give them the same answer. If you’re planning a conversion in a small van like the Ford Transit Custom, a pop-top is pretty much non-negotiable in my opinion.
It’s not just a flashy upgrade, it’ll totally transform your van experience. Instead of crouching in your van at night, you can pop the roof up and suddenly you’ve got full standing height inside. That makes cooking, changing clothes, and organising gear much comfier.
Plus, pop-tops from brands like Storm and Drivelodge come with quality, waterproof canvas so you stay dry in rain. And they even do a decent job at insulating and keeping warm air inside.
A pop top is especially handy if you often travel as a couple or with friends, because you can pull down the sleeping platform in seconds for two extra beds.
I also recommend pop tops over a fixed high top because you can keep the pop top down during transport, which will give you better fuel economy and ease of parking. Honestly, it’s one of the first things I recommend for any SWB or LWB Transit Custom build.
2. Add Solar Panels for an Easy Off-Grid Setup
In my experience, being able to power lights, charge gadgets and run a fridge without plugging into mains is a game-changer. I recommend a 250W panel with a battery and inverter to most clients.
Solar panels on the roof are my top tip for going off-grid. I’ve fitted panels on hundreds of vans, and personally I can’t imagine touring without them.
Solar is quiet, green, and more or less “set and forget.” There’s no rattling generator engine, no fuel tank to worry about. You just drive, the sun charges your battery all day, and you use that stored power at night.
Over long trips, solar not only saves fuel but feels really eco-friendly – no diesel fumes at your campsite. It’s safe too (no carbon monoxide like a generator).
But, I would recommend a larger battery if you’re planning on staying mainly in the UK or doing a lot of winter camping, as sun won’t be as readily available.
We install these panels flush on your new pop-top or roof, and hook them to a smart energy system so you can monitor everything. Nothing better than off-grid self sufficiency.
3. A Diesel Heater For Winter Camping
Even on a sunny day in summer, a British night can bite. For real van-life comfort, a diesel heater is essential. These little units (we fit Autoterm/Planar models) run off the van’s fuel tank and can warm your Transit Custom from frosty to toasty in minutes.
I’ve used them on my own trips and heard endless praise from clients: crisp January mornings are no problem at all.
Think of it this way: rather than shivering under extra blankets, you can switch on the heater (some even have remote apps!) and walk into a warm cocoon.
Diesel heaters are also altitude-independent – no stalling up mountains – so whether you’re in the Peak District or Conwy, the heat stays reliable. We install a 2 kW Autoterm diesel heater with a thermostat and timer, so you can pre-heat your van before you get back to it.
If you go for our full conversion package, every full Transit conversion includes a diesel heater (alongside gas and electrical systems).
It runs quietly (no generator noise), and taps the van’s own diesel supply. Beyond comfort, it’s also super efficient, giving a few kW of heat while barely sipping from your tank.
If you plan year-round adventures, a diesel heater will pay for itself in comfort.
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4. Scorpion Security Systems To Keep You Safe
Your campervan is a home and an investment, so security matters. That’s why I always recommend a Scorpion Security System for Transit Customs.
This isn’t just an alarm, it’s a full anti-theft and tracking package tailored for vans. Real-time GPS tracking, immobiliser, driver recognition… even if someone tries to tow your van, Scorpion will alert you.
In my experience, just having the security system fitted means I can sleep better at night.
On the road, it’s the little things that count: being able to check on your van’s location via an app, or know immediately if the alarm was triggered. Of course, we hope you’ll never need it, but if you do, it’s priceless.
5. Enjoy Outdoors in Any Weather with an Awning Rail
Van life isn’t just about the inside of your van, it’s also about that stretch of outdoors you claim around it. A high-quality awning rail lets you create instant outdoor living space.
I’ll be honest, the first time I used one on a summer weekend it felt like magic: one minute I’m cooking inside, next minute I’ve got a shaded outdoor kitchen and lounge under a canvas roof. And not to mention how handy it is to have an outdoor space even when it’s raining!
My team and I have fit sturdy awning rails on hundreds of vans. And let me tell you, even a modest 3m awning can easily serve as a kitchen/dining area or a wet-weather lounge.
High-quality rails are built for the UK climate (wind and rain are no joke), and our installations come with a 2-year warranty in case a storm hits. My own tip: always use leveling blocks and tighten those guy ropes if it’s windy.
Once I went camping in Staffordshire and it rained the entire weekend. Pretty much all we did was sit under the awning with a campfire going. It would have been a different story without it!
For families or anyone who likes to hang out outside (we’ve all been stuck cooped up in a tiny space on a drizzly afternoon), this is a must-have. So yes, rail + awning = a much bigger campsite experience.
6. Keep Food Cold with a 12V Fridge
Nothing perks up a trip like a frosty beer in the middle of nowhere. That’s why a low-power 12V fridge is essential in my opinion.
I recommend under-counter compressor fridges (like the ones Dometic make) because they’re really efficient. They run on the leisure battery and barely drain it. Even when parked, they’ll keep things cold for days.
In all the Transit builds my team and I do, we insist on fridge and freezer units as part of the kitchen setup. And it’s true: a small portable cooler just isn’t the same once you’ve tasted fresh food every day.
Running a 12V fridge works out to be surprisingly cheap (a couple of amps per hour) so with a good battery or solar to recharge, it’s completely doable off-grid. We’ll wire it into your electrical system with a fuse box and possibly an inverter if you have AC plugs too.
In my experience, having a proper fridge is as important as water or heat once you’re on the road. It lets you eat well and waste less. And never have to worry about picking up an extra bag of ice!
7. Choose a RIB Bed Over a Fixed or Rock n Roll Bed
This one’s a bit nerdy but hear me out: RIB beds are a step up from the old rock-and-roll seat-bed. They are way easier to convert to a bed than a rock and roll (great if you have any back issues to be careful of).
Plus, when you convert a RIB bed it’s just the cushions that move, so no fiddling with a frame. That means that you’ll have extra space under the bed for storage if you need.
The last thing I’ll say about the RIB bed is that, because it’s fully crash tested, it increases your driving berth by two. Unlike a fixed bed (that will take up way too much space anyway), it has seatbelts and everything so you can take the kids or some friends with you.
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8. Custom Cabinetry is Super Important for a Ford Transit
One of the joys (and headaches) of a camper conversion is finding a spot for all your gear. This is especially true when you’re converting a smaller van like a Ford Transit Custom. That’s why bespoke cabinetry and storage is high on my list.
You’re not buying flat-pack furniture; you’re getting handcrafted units built just for your van’s contours. It maximises every inch of space so you aren’t tripping over loose bins on the floor.
As Cosmic Campervans, we design and install high-quality cabinets that match your style and needs. What that means for you is smooth drawers for pots and pans, a snug spot for your toolbox, racks for clothes, and more.
We even use lightweight but strong materials (no heavy chipboard – we use marine-grade ply and aluminium where needed). Every drawer has sturdy latches that hold them shut while driving.
No doubt: a well-thought-out interior is key. Personally, I hate clutter when I travel, so I make sure we include hooks for jackets, nets for fruit, bins under counters, etc. If you’re planning for hobbies (surfboard, camera gear, kids’ stuff), mention it early on.
We’ve even designed hidden compartments and lockers for things like camp showers or barbecues. Basically, custom cabinets make living in a van feel like home, and keep you organised, which makes the whole trip more relaxing.
9. Vanshades for a Proper Blackout and Insulation Benefits
Vanshades are a massive step up from window curtains in my opinion. They are sturdy blinds that fit snugly over the windows to create an actual black out effect. Seriously, not even a ray sneaking in through the side.
What’s more, they insulate really well, which curtains obviously don’t. So, your van will be cooler in summer and warmer in winter because the van shades can act as a nice barrier.
In my opinion, there’s nothing worse than coming back to a steaming hot van in summer because the afternoon sun is beaming in through the windows.
When I do window installation I always recommend adding vanshades straight away. It sounds small, but good window shades make a big difference to your comfort and privacy. No more prying eyes or blinding sun, and that’s peace of mind at the campsite.
10. Reduce Noise with Cosy Carpet Lining
Finally, let’s talk carpet lining, which might be one of the unsung heroes of campervans. I can’t count how many folks say “Wow, it’s so quiet in here now” once we carpet the walls and wheel-arches.
A Transit Custom is basically a hollow metal box, and on the road it can sound like a drum. High-quality carpet lining with sound-deadening insulation turns that echo into hush. You’ll actually hear the radio and talk normally.
If you are considering lining your campervan with carpet, I’d recommend having a quick chat to one of our team. It’s much better to speak to a professional as they will be able to catch things that you may have missed.
Right now we have a package that includes thick insulation mats plus plush carpet over everything. This combo dramatically cuts road noise and rattles. If you ever stealth-camp in a city or near a busy road, you’ll notice the difference: the inside becomes noticeably quieter.
We make sure to use materials rated for van use (stain-resistant, flame-retardant carpet, proper adhesives).
Beyond the practical benefits, carpet lining feels cosy. It makes the interior look finished and homey. In short: carpet lining gives your Transit Custom the final layer of comfort that ties everything else together.
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Final Thoughts
All of the above are features I’ve seen make or break a campervan conversion. They cover the essentials: sleeping, cooking, comfort, security, and enjoyment. Of course, every van and owner is unique, so these features can be mixed and matched per your needs and budget.
The great thing about converting a Ford Transit Custom is that you’re starting with a blank canvas. That means you can add what matters to you.
For example, if you mostly tour in summer, you might skimp on heating but double down on solar and shading. If you camp in all seasons, a diesel heater and solid insulation become priorities.
From my own campervan experiences driving up and down the UK on holidays, I promise these top 10 bits will pay off in comfort and convenience.
As a final tip: always focus on planning the layout first (safety and required kit first, then luxury extras). And feel free to reach out if you need advice. We’re a family-run crew, and we’re passionate about van life because we live it too.
Safe travels, and I hope to see your Transit Custom on the road!
