4 Cool Sprinter Van Bunk Beds And Where To Buy Them

Bunk beds are one of the most efficient sleeping solution for Sprinter vans. If you’re taking your kids on the road with you, opting for Sprinter van bunk beds allows you to save precious space for other essential gear, such as a kitchenette or dinette.

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Plus, there’s always room for some storage underneath campervan bunk beds.

There are various types of campervan bunk beds – from minimalistic fold-down platforms to the classic single sleepers.

Depending on their budget, some van lifers build their own campervan bunk beds, while others buy a kit. A few opt for a full conversion featuring bunk beds in the floor plan.

In this article, we look at four Sprinter van bunk beds that will give you the inspiration you need to design your own Van interior.

Then, we’ll show you where you can buy Sprinter van bunk beds on any budget!

Sara & Alex James’ ‘Hidden’ Double Sprinter Van Bunk Beds

Sara and Alex James have lived the van life for two years, touring much of the US.

Now, with a baby on the way, they have settled down and convert vans for a living. Check out their impressive Sprinter van conversion, which they built for a family of four.

To create Sprinter van bunk beds to sleep four, Sara and Alex created a platform double bed and a floating double bunk bed.

They are super versatile.

During the day, they are out of the way, leaving room for a decent size dinette. At night, the table drops down and, together with the couches, creates a double bed.

The second campervan bunk bed lowers from the roof, down to the middle of the van. So during the day, the top bunk only steals a few inches of headroom at the dinette. It’s ingenious.

The space saved by the Sprinter van bunk beds leaves room for a dinette, a wet bath, a decent kitchen, and a generous wardrobe.

It’s hard to believe Sara and Alex managed to fit all of this into a Sprinter.

Everest’s Triple Campervan Bunk Beds

Everest is a Ford Transit campervan converted by its owners for a family of five.

So, yes: this van sleeps up to five adults. It’s the perfect RV to take on a big adventure with friends.

At the front of the vehicle, near the driver and passenger seats, there are two double seats with integrated seatbelts, facing each other.

During the day, these are used, together with a dining table, as a dinette. At night, they all fold down to create a double bed.

Towards the rear of the vehicle, there are three, 6ft-long camper van bunk beds. While they don’t offer much headroom, they can all sleep an adult. There are reading lights and a storage pouch inside each campervan bunk bed. And to get some privacy, there’s some curtains on the outer side.

The interior looks modern and practical, perfect for a big family.

The use of space on this build is truly impressive. On top of featuring beds for five people, there’s a toilet and kitchen.

Ramble And Revive’s Classic Campervan Bunk Beds

Kyla and Mike bought a converted Sprinter van to hit the road with their two boys. The interior looks super bright, thanks to the white surfaces. But it also has a rustic feel, with the gorgeous wooden surfaces.

The van features a dinette that turns into a double bed, where the parents sleep, and two Sprinter van bunk beds.

The campervan bunk beds are located on the left hand side, in the middle of the vehicle, right in front of the kitchen.

These Sprinter van bunk beds are fixed in place and look super comfy, with a single high foam mattress on each. They are 5ft long and have storage underneath.

There is a wooden ladder leading up to the top bunk. Simple and lovely.

Here’s the full tour of the van:

Our Van Quest’s Solo Top Bunk Bed

Jake, Gianna and Luna have lived on a converted Sprinter van for years.

They decided to pair a platform bed for the adults with a single elevated Sprinter van bunk bed. Next to the campervan bunk bed, there’s a shelf that serves as a nightstand to Luna.

Thanks to this clever “floating” solution for Luna’s Sprinter van bunk bed, the floor plan resembles that of most vans with a platform bed only. There’s space for a wet bath, a decent size kitchen, and a passenger seat for Luna.

The family has now moved on to a skoolie, due to the arrival of little Capri – their second child.

Where Can You Buy Sprinter Van Bunk Beds?

You may not have the skills or confidence to build you own Sprinter van bunk beds. After all, they need to be solid and safe, or you’ll fall on the floor in the middle of the night.

The good news is that you can buy pre-made Sprinter van bunk beds, so you can focus on building the rest of the gear for your DIY van conversion.

Alternatively, you can hire a company to carry out the full conversion for you.

Check out the post DIY Van Build: Tips from van life experts if you are planning to DIY your van build!

RB Components’ Individual Panels For Bunk Beds

RB Components make single bed frames that you can install in your Sprinter above each other, to create bunk beds.

They slide, so you can extend them, based on the height of the person sleeping in them. This is a great solution if you occasionally take kids and adult friends with you.

These Sprinter van bunk beds are made of aluminium and stainless steel, topped by a board in either bamboo or hex. The frame features holes throughout the panel, in order to allow the mattress to give a little. This means your mattress will feel softer and you’ll get a better night sleep.

Find out more on the RB Components’ website.

Adventure Wagon’s MONK Bunk

The MONK Bunk, by Adventure Wagon, is a lightweight and thin, but solid, solo Sprinter van bunk bed.

It’s designed to take up as little space as possible during the day, so you can have a full on bike-hauling van for your adventures.

At night, it flips down, ready for a restful sleep.

The MONK Bunk is made of aluminium and features a 5” shelf. The plywood panels are upholstered with marine grade fabric, and you can even choose the colour.

The best feature? You can store your bedding inside it, so when you flip it down, the bed is already made. That’s priceless after a full day of mountain biking or surfing.

You can install this Sprinter van bunk bed DIY, or have a Certified Adventure Wagon Installer do it.

When ordering it, you’ll also need to purchase the installation kit, unless you already have the Adventure Wagon’s RUV Interior Kit.

Have a look at the full specs of the MONK Bunk here.

Sportsmobile’s Custom Conversions

If you are thinking of hiring a specialist company to carry out your conversion, Sportsmobile offers a variety of Sprinter van bunk bed solutions.

Each build is highly customized to suit the needs of the client, so you can choose among many options for the rest of the floor plan.

On a Sprinter van, the company can install two or three fold-down campervan bunk beds with integrated mesh pockets for storage.

The platform and mechanism are made in metal. Each bunk has a thin single-foam mattress. They look minimalistic but comfortable.

Find out more on the Sportsmobile website.

Creative Mobile Interiors’ Double Campervan Bunk Beds

Another company that converts Sprinters is Creative Mobile Interiors. They make a luxury conversion that features four single campervan bunk beds at the rear of the RV.

The two bottom campervan bunk beds have storage underneath. Each bed has a privacy curtain, a light and plug.

The conversion also features three captain’s chairs on swivel bases and a small kitchenette with a refrigerator. The coolest feature? Two flip-down 22″ TVs.

Learn more about Creative Mobile Interior’s conversions on their website.

Elementum Adventure Vehicles’ Queen-size Sprinter Van Bunk Bed

Looking for a queen-size bunk bed that folds away? Then look no further than the Elementum Adventure Vehicles’ conversion.

This build has a fold-down bigger Sprinter van bunk bed with a decent double-panel mattress. It folds into two when not in use.

This leaves plenty of space for a motorbike, two more Sprinter van bunk beds (or a flip-down couch), and kitchenette.

You’ll need to hire Elementum Adventure Vehicles to carry out the full conversion.

Check out their Loam Ranger Sprinter van conversion here.

Buy DIY Sprinter Van Bunk Beds Plans

If you’re on a budget and can weld, you could opt for buying DIY Plans’ Sprinter van bunk bed instructions and make your own.

You will need to source the materials and tools to build them locally, but the plans come at $16.95 only.

The Sprinter van bunk bed plans are designed by a retired engineer, called Ben Stone, who is based in Canada.

The great thing is that Ben can help you with the build via email – he’s happy to answer any questions. If you have a little time and patience, this could be a very satisfying option.

Have a look at the plans here.

Sprinter vs. Transit: The Nitty Gritty

Let’s see how these two vans compare in four critical areas.

1. Maintenance Costs

Let’s face it: every vehicle needs repairs, and taking care of issues is crucial when your vehicle is also your home!

Aside from budgeting for regular oil and tire changes, you’re well-advised to have extra savings when something unexpected happens.

A Ford Transit is not only more affordable upfront, but it’s also cheaper to maintain.

Replacement parts are affordable and widely available, which is a huge bonus.

You’ll also have extra peace of mind in a worst-case scenario since Ford dealers and mechanics are in almost every town.

Maintenance is one of the main reasons solo US female van lifer Ricki (@rickiontheroad) chose a Ford Transit to call home: “I went with a Transit because it’s less expensive and more places will service it. While Sprinters may need maintenance less often, the thought of needing maintenance in a remote town and no one willing to work on my vehicle was enough to get a Transit.”

Colby and Eric (@engineerswhovanlife) agree with Ricki: “The ease of maintenance and servability of an American-made camper van was crucial for us. Living on the road full time, we have heard horror stories of Sprinter owners having to pay for 200+ mile tows when they break down, or parts being really difficult to source. Fords are everywhere here, and we have never had an issue with towing or parts.”

Things are a little different when it comes to owning a Sprinter. Internet forums are full of horror stories about DEF sensor failure, black death, and the dreaded limp mode.

When a serious problem arises, a dealership is often the only place able to help, so you’ll have to find your way to the nearest big city.

Keith and Hannah (@keithandhannahh) are full-time van lifers who live in a Sprinter van, and they agree that the initial cost of the cargo van plus the more expensive maintenance costs are the only cons to choosing a Sprinter vs. a Transit.

“In our opinion, the only con is the price because a Sprinter costs slightly more (not always). You might spend more on parts to fix it, but we bought a new van and haven’t had any fixes because we keep up with all the maintenance. We’ve always had a good experience with Mercedes, trust in them as a brand, and love to see how much they’ve embraced the van life space,” said Keith and Hannah.

Add in the fact that repair costs can be substantial and you may have to wait weeks for parts to arrive, and it’s no wonder this is a sticking point for many people in the Ford Transit vs. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter debate.

2. AWD/4×4 Options

For those traveling back roads, especially during winter, a 4×4 Sprinter is the most attractive option. The downside is you’ll have to purchase a 2022 model (or earlier) since Mercedes-Benz no longer makes 4×4 Sprinters as of 2023.

A 4×4 Sprinter has a much higher clearance than a standard 2WD model, and it can go just about anywhere, making it ideal for off-grid adventuring.

As of 2023, Mercedes-Benz makes AWD Sprinter vans with diesel engines. Although you’ll need to spend more upfront for a Sprinter van with AWD or a 2022 (or earlier) model with 4×4, it will hold its value if you ever want to sell it.

The AWD Transit and Transit Trail are becoming increasingly popular, though they’re only available with a gasoline engine.

Colby and Eric (@engineerswhovanlife) wrote an article on their blog about why they chose a Transit over a Sprinter (and ProMaster). They said they like how a Transit has “the shorter wheelbase of the Transit driving more like a car and the AWD drive train.”

Although it’s a big step up from the 2WD Transit, you’ll need to pay for a lifted suspension if you want more clearance on a standard Transit. As mentioned earlier, the Transit Trail at least has a significant lift of 3.5” compared to the standard Transit.

If you still want a 4×4 campervan and are leaning towards a Ford Transit, you can pay for an after-market 4×4 conversion.

Although you’ll pay around $13,000 for a Quigley’s conversion from Sportsmobile, the overall cost could be less than what you’d pay for a 4×4 Sprinter, leveling the playing field in the Sprinter vs. Transit game!

3. Suitability For Conversions

As we’ve already seen, there’s much more interior standing space in a High Roof Transit and High Roof Transit Trail, which could be the clincher for taller friends.

Although there’s less space in a Transit, the square shape makes it easy to do a quick and affordable conversion.

Another big plus is the Transit’s interior width, which makes it possible to install a bed width-ways, freeing up more living and storage space inside the van.

Colby and Eric (@engineerswhovanlife) have chosen Transit vans twice (about to be three times)! They said that one reason they prefer them for a conversion is the added height: “The Transit is the tallest of the three more common chassis. The interior standing height of the Transit is 4” taller than the Sprinter. Eric is tall so this was a must for us!”

When converting a Sprinter, the biggest advantage is the ample space inside, especially in the 170″ wheelbase extended model.

If you plan on living in your van full-time or with kids, the huge space inside a Sprinter could make it a clear frontrunner. 

Although you’ll probably have to sleep lengthways in your van unless you are shorter and install flares, there are loads of ways to integrate storage space into your design.

4. Diesel vs. Gasoline

When considering the Sprinter vs. Transit question, one of the most important differences is the fuel each van uses.

Most Sprinters have diesel engines, which means better fuel economy and a longer lifespan.

The fuel economy of a Sprinter is one of the reasons why van lifers Keith and Hannah (@keithandhannah) chose a Sprinter for their DIY conversion: “Sprinter vans are super reliable, have a great fuel economy even after the vans are built out, and hold their value. We’re not tall, so livability is perfect, and in our opinion, it looks the best.” 

That said, diesel is more expensive at the pump, and locating the Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel (ULSD) that Sprinters require could be a real problem if you travel to Central or South America.

If you plan on extended foreign journeys in your camper van, you’re probably better off going with a Ford Transit van, despite its inferior fuel economy.

Why I Chose a Sprinter Van

When my husband and I shopped for a campervan to call our home and live in full-time, we researched popular modern chassis, including Sprinters, Transits, and ProMasters. 

I considered the Ford Transit Trail over the Sprinter. I liked the cheaper price tag, and my husband and I grew up driving Ford vehicles.

Plus, since my husband is tall at 6’5”, I wondered if he could stand more comfortably in a Transit Trail.

However, I knew I wanted a professional conversion and needed my van finished when my apartment lease ended. I had to rule out the Transit Trail as those vans were not readily available then.

I ultimately went with a 2022 Sprinter van to have 4×4, a reliable van for full-time living, and a van with excellent resale value.

I also like the look of a Sprinter, and my husband found he could stand up inside it without needing to squat or bend.

I appreciate having the peace of mind of a 4-wheel drive van on steep, rocky roads and during winter conditions in Colorado (where we spend much of our time).

Ford does not make 4×4 vans, so I already felt hesitant about going with one of those vans in case I ever found myself in a difficult position on the road.

Since I planned to live in my van full-time with my husband and dog, I wanted a reliable and high-quality chassis.

Although services on Sprinters are expensive, I appreciate how Sprinter vans don’t need to be serviced as often and rarely have parts that need replacement since they are made with quality from the get-go (in my experience).

I also chose a Sprinter over a Transit due to the resale value. I knew my family would do van life for 1-3 years and eventually want to sell the van.

I have not yet reached the point where I’m looking to sell my Sprinter van, but I feel confident that I will get a pretty good return on investment when the time comes.

Appearance was not a huge factor in our decision, but since my husband is a photographer and enjoys taking drone shots of our van in epic places, it is a definite plus!

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Should I Get a Sprinter or Transit?

If you’re hoping for a verdict on which vehicle is better for van life, you’re out of luck!

Sprinter and Transit vans are excellent choices for van dwellers, and each has unique pros and cons.

Although Keith and Hannah (@keithandhannahh) chose a Sprinter van, they said, “A Transit van would be a close second!”

I agree and could easily see us switching from a Sprinter van to a Ford Transit (specifically the Transit Trail) someday, especially if we purchase a home and want a van for part-time traveling.

I have nothing negative to say about the Sprinter other than the initial high price tag and expensive service costs.

The Sprinter vs. Transit debate rages on, so you must weigh the pros and cons and decide which best fits your needs and budget.

I hope you’ve found this article interesting and helpful in your quest to find your dream van. Please feel free to leave any questions or comments below!

Other Van Life Stories You’ll Love:

• Why a Ford Transit connect camper rocks for van life
• These car camper conversion kits might change your life
• 4 Cool Sprinter Van Bunk Beds And Where To Buy Them

Go Totally DIY

If you are handy and plan to build two classic campervan bunk beds with storage underneath the bottom one and a small ladder, you could do it yourself. You can buy the materials and tools from any DIY store.

There’s plenty of tutorials online, including this one:

With a little time and patience, you can save a lot of cash this way.

Conclusion On Sprinter Van Bunk Beds

Planning on installing bunk beds in your Sprinter van? They’re a great solution for van lifers who want to bring friends or family on their road trips.

Whatever your budget, there’s an option that will allow you to use campervan bunk beds in your Sprinter interior.

Check out these other great van life posts to help you build out your van: