Make an Informed Choice : The Important Minivan Characteristics For Its Conversion

Thinking of getting a RoadLoft conversion kit but you don’t have your vehicle yet?

In this article, we share the knowledge we’ve accumulated over nine years on the road to help you choose the perfect minivan. We highlight the essential features to consider in order to maximize your vehicle’s potential with a RoadLoft removable conversion kit. These elements play a key role in the layout, comfort and functionality of your future camper.

most important minivan caracteristics

Smaller windows, height of the interior of the passenger compartment, ceiling, floor … The market offers a variety of vehicle profiles. The design of minivans is influenced by aesthetic or engineering considerations. That’s why we have to take a close look at it so that the choice meets our needs.

Stow'N Go Configuration

The Stow ‘n Go configuration exclusive to Chrysler and Dodge offers advantages that make all the difference for many customers by allowing four seats to be kept at all times and benefiting from large storage spaces under the floor.

Those are often preferred by our customers who permanently remove the third row of seats while retaining the second. For those traveling in pairs, this second row of seats will be folded into the floor most of the time. And if necessary, hop, we move the Roadloft module back and in a jiffy the two rear seats to travel four. You can also remove the benches from the second row and benefit from the additional storage of the two large spaces under the floor (provided for folding the third row of seats). Storage prized by athletes or other customers who appreciate additional storage space during long road trips.

Interior color

We prefer a vehicle with pale interior colors. This will give the effect of openness, spaciousness, compared to an all-black interior.

No sunroofs

Seemingly attractive, one must take into account that the sunroof lowers the threshold of the interior space. The ceiling of mini-vans with a sunroof is often 2 to 3 inches lower. Perfect for looking at the starry sky, but you will have to take into account its constraints for all other times.

Hybrid powertrain and fuel consumption

Do you want to opt for the least polluting, the most economical, the most efficient mini-van? Motorization is an important minivan characteristic to consider. Not all manufacturers are at the same level. You have to compare and the offer changes quickly. There are now two models of hybrid mini-vans which are interesting options.

Opening window in 2nd row

This is a useful option to allow maximum ventilation of the vehicle. On the other hand, in our case, we rarely sleep with these windows open, as the ones in the back are sufficient and more private.

Back power window

This option is convenient for us. It allows you to put a mosquito net inside and not have to remove it to close or open the window. However, the electric option requires switching on the ignition on the accessories to open or close the windows. So it’s a matter of choice and preferences …

It should be noted that installing mosquito nets in the back requires a bit of DIY and the installation of Velcro. You can therefore opt to (more easily) place mosquito nets on other windows and sleep with them open at night. Discover the different options in our article on this subject.

Converting your minivan for vanlife

To take full advantage of vanlife, your conversion kit needs to be ultra-light, give quick and easy access to your storage, and be made from robust materials, specifically chosen to withstand the realities of the road.

To discover our 10 criterias for a good conversion kit, read our full article on the subject.

Roadloft Conversion kit for minivan

The RoadLoft minivan conversion kit is lighter than a third passenger, installs in 5 minutes, and offers an open, modular design.

Each part is carefully sandblasted and varnished up to six times for maximum durability. Integrated air vents ensure optimum ventilation, preventing damp and mildew. Add to this an ultra-comfortable mattress, and you’ve got everything you need for uncompromising vanlife.