Have you ever thought about sleeping in your car on a trip? It won’t be wrong to say that you must have contemplated it at least once before renting a room in a hotel. The global market for caravans and motorhomes is worth about $57 billion. But fast forward to 2033, and experts predict it will more than double, reaching a whopping $129 billion! That’s like saying the popularity of hitting the road in your own mobile home is going to grow by a pretty significant 8.5% every single year between now and then. Camp-Inn (famous for making retro-style travel trailers) after knowing this trend created the Toyota Prius Camper, which is not just a hybrid car you can travel in but also sleep in as well.
It is perfect for those who want to take their Prius anywhere. Living in a car was not an option before this Prius camper van. With the benefit of having a spacious cabin that sleeps four people, you can travel as far as you want to go without having to worry about renting a hotel or placing a camp in the wild. This innovative design essentially turns your vehicle into a Prius minivan, combining compact efficiency with surprising roominess.
What To Expect From Prius Camper
As said earlier, the Prius camper is a chic modern RV conversion that can sleep up to 4 people. Its funny exterior look is not the only feature that stands out; the interior is also one of its kind.
Curious about the Toyota Prius dimensions? The camper car is 20 inches longer than a regular Toyota Prius specs and 80 inches in height allowing you to easily stand inside comfortably, even if you’re 7 feet tall. The curved shape of this modern RV is quite different compared to an angular motor-home people usually use. Nevertheless, this change is good because it has a cozier and warmer vibe to it.
The camper has two compartments; the lower cabin of this motor home holds a convertible double bed that you can change back into seats just by folding the backseats up.
On the other hand, the upper compartment, which runs over the driver’s head, provides extra sleeping space. It is quite similar to those found on boats and pickup campers. Behind the upper berth are two large windows, which make the interior look more appealing and allow the natural light to peek inside the camper.
1. Comfort
Besides being spacious and cozy, the Toyota Prius camper can charge electronic gadgets and run devices through its battery, which offers 100 volts. Furthermore, the conversion model has a mini kitchenette consisting of a microwave and a fridge that run on a battery. The Prius interior shines here, offering a clever layout that maximizes comfort and utility for travelers on the go.
Additionally, you can fold the backseats and convert them into a scaled-down dinette table. This way, you can enjoy your lunches inside the camper in the most comfortable way. You can also add things you need inside the camper such as a sink if you are a long-term camper. The Prius Camper surely provides the highest level of comfort to travelers.
2. Climate Control and Fuel Efficiency
Why Prius is an excellent option to convert into a camper van is its climate control system. Just turn on the ignition and your car will run on the battery without using the engine’s power. The engine will kick in only when the battery drains. As soon as the 12v battery gets full, the engine will sleep again. However, if a warning like “check hybrid system Prius” appears, we recommend having the battery and hybrid components inspected as soon as possible.
Another great thing about climate control is its ability to accommodate you in both dry and cold weather. For warm air, the engine first heats the coolant and then turns off. For cold air, the hybrid employs an electric compressor.
On the other hand, there have been critical discussions regarding its fuel efficiency. Considering the added weight and aerodynamics, it will definitely burn more fuel while traveling but still it’s one of the most fuel-efficient vehicles. Moreover, if you keep the climate control ON during the day and at night, it will consume a lot of fuel. It means you might have to visit the gas stations more often.
3. Inspiration For Smaller Campers
For decades, camper vehicles have been an effective way for families to travel for vacations to different parts of the world and enjoy the landscapes on the way. Most campers are big vehicles, which may not be suitable for a small family. The Toyota Prius Camper sheds light upon smaller and eco-friendly camper vans. Some manufacturers have already started working on the “small is good” motto; Honda Element Camper Kit is the perfect example.
4. Prius V sleeping platform by Zach Carter
This Prius V offers a slightly larger boot, ideal for a camping conversion that prioritizes car sleeping and storage. While sacrificing some headroom, the platform raises the boot floor, providing ample space for (not too tall) items.
This setup suits those preferring a two-seater option, although removing the rear seats is an alternative. To access the original storage compartment, lift the entire platform. Opt for lightweight plywood to facilitate easy lifting.
The conversion caters to tall individuals, with the 6’2″ person in mind. Its simplicity, with only two easily removable pieces, stands out.
The estimated cost for the conversion is around $70, covering plywood, wooden legs, hinges, screws, and D rings.
5. Levi & Leah’s Prius camping conversion
This camping conversion boasts a sleek sleeping platform, replacing rear seats. Its side-opening design allows easy access, while built-in storage compartments hold essentials like phones and keys.
Key features include butterfly-wing style doors for accessibility, additional storage for convenience, and a hitch-mounted cargo box doubling as a workspace. The setup also includes a boot tent for this top hybrid car of all time.
Costing around $500, it comprises components like the cargo box, hatchback tent, sleeping platform, and storage accessories. Additional add-ons like a Jackery power bank or car fridge can enhance the setup further.
6. Prius Camper Storage Made Easy
Sleeping isn’t the only thing the Prius Camper does well—it has storage tricks too. Under that double bed, which flips around easily, compartments hide there for stashing stuff like camping gear or clothes. Up top, where the upper berth sits, more little spots wait to hold your personal things. It keeps the mess away! Even on long trips, this smart setup helps the inside stay neat and work well. No clutter to bug you!
7. Cost Of The Prius Camper
Getting the Prius camper conversion is tempting, but the price might make you think twice before you go for it. Just the standard model of the modded Prius will cost you over $48,000 if you select the 2019 model. If you already own Prius and want the conversion done, it will still cost you over $20,000. If you don’t have one and want a company to buy a Prius and customize it as per your liking, you can contact Car Taka.
In essence, the Prius Camper makes for perfect eco-friendly traveling with your family. It has everything you would need in a family car.
Would you like to buy a Prius Camper or a traditional RV is your first choice? Tell us in the comments section below.