Maximizing Storage with Upper Cabinets in Ford Transit Camper Vans

Maximizing Storage in Your Ford Transit Camper Van

Installing upper cabinets is one of the best ways to maximize storage space in a Ford Transit camper van conversion. The high roof of the Transit provides ample room for adding storage above the main living area, allowing you to keep gear and supplies up and out of the way.

Considerations for Upper Cabinets

When planning your Ford Transit camper van upper cabinets, the first consideration is measuring the available space. Be sure to account for ceiling height, avoiding conduit runs, and leaving suitable clearance above countertops or other fixtures below the cabinets. Carefully mapping out potential cabinet locations will ensure you utilize all usable space.

It's also important to consider what you intend to store in the upper cabinets. Bulkier items like pots and pans or camping gear may dictate cabinet depth, while frequently accessed items like dishes and food may influence mounting height for easy access. Take time to envision how you'll use the storage space when installing upper cabinets in a Transit camper.

Cabinet Construction Materials

Most DIY Ford Transit camper van conversions rely on plywood cabinet construction. At least 3⁄4” plywood provides adequate strength and rigidity for secure mounting. High quality Baltic birch plywood offers smooth faces and edges for a clean, finished look. Plywood sheets are also easy to cut and assemble into box-style upper cabinets for the Transit van.

Other suitable materials include medium density fiberboard (MDF) and lightweight aluminum. MDF requires additional edging but accepts paints and wraps well. Aluminum upper cabinets are very lightweight but typically more expensive. Ensure all materials meet your budget and performance needs.

Mounting Ford Transit Upper Cabinets

Sturdy mounting is key for upper cabinets to safely handle loads during transit while securely fastened in a moving vehicle. The ceiling and walls of the Transit provide solid mounting points for anchors, studs, or through-bolts.

Hanging standards or L-brackets offer flexible mounting options. Position and pre-drill the cabinet carcasses first before fastening to the vehicle body with lag screws or bolts. Apply adhesive caulk behind and around perimeter cabinet edges for maximum mounting rigidity.

Doors, Drawers, and Interior Fittings

You have numerous options when outfitting your Transit camper van upper cabinets. Doors can be fabricated from the same plywood or MDF as cabinet boxes and mounted with embedded or surface-mounted hinges. Drawers are highly recommended for easier access versus fixed shelves.

For interiors, consider sliding shelves, vertical dividers, racks, hooks, and specialized storage fittings. A mix of fixed and adjustable shelves and smart compartments lets you effectively organize gear. Make sure all interior cabinet components are fastened in place for safety while driving.

Creative Upper Cabinet Ideas for Ford Transit Camper Vans

Taking full advantage of the available space above the cargo area allows Ford Transit camper van owners to build all kinds of creative and specialized upper cabinets.

Dedicated Storage Zones

Dividing upper cabinets into zones designated for certain gear or supplies will make accessing what you need fast and easy. For example, build drawers to stow electronics and tech accessories. Install open racks or mesh pockets for flashlights, headlamps, and other adventure gear.

Pantry Cabinet and Dry Storage

Maximize unused space above the galley by creating a dry food pantry. Box cabinets with adjustable or fixed shelving are perfect for stowing canned goods, spices, boxes of pasta, rice, cereal, and other dry bulk foods. Install drawers for snack bags, foil rolls, plastic wrap, and convenience foods.

Gear Garage Storage

For the outdoor adventurers, use upper cabinets to store bulkier gear conveniently right inside your Transit camper. Install sturdy shelving sized for backpacks, hiking boots, helmets, life jackets, folded camp chairs, and other outdoor gear you need handy access to.

Specialized Sport Equipment Storage

Anglers will appreciate a dedicated rod locker cabinet up high in the cargo area. Cyclists can build upper bike racks for storing one or more bicycles above the living space secured neatly out of the way. The possibilities are endless for custom upper cabinets catering to your favorite sport or hobby.

Tips for Accessible Ford Transit Upper Cabinet Storage

Careful upper cabinet planning also considers ease of access to stored gear. Here are some useful tips for building Ford Transit camper van upper storage you can actually reach and use.

Step Stools and Ladders

Securely mounted step stools, rolling ladders, or folding ladders ensure occupants of any height can reach items stored in upper cabinets. Look for compact, lightweight models that won’t take up precious floor space when not needed.

Sliding Shelves and Drawers

Install pull out drawers for easy access to storage bins and trays. Sliding shelves bring items stored at the back of cabinets within reach when pulled forward. These upgrades also prevent having to remove items in front to reach the back of cabinets.

Door and Shelf Labeling

Use self-adhesive labels, chalkboard paint, or permanent marker to identify frequently used items or zones. This allows finding gear even in compartments out of sight up high without removing everything to hunt for what you need.

With some planning and creative storage solutions, Ford Transit camper van owners can build upper cabinets that maximize every inch of available space. Focus on frequently needed gear and supplies when deciding what to place in hard to reach areas.

FAQs

What are some good materials to use for DIY Ford Transit camper van upper cabinets?

Plywood, especially Baltic birch, is a top choice for cabinet construction due to its strength, smooth finish, and ease of fabrication. MDF is another option, but may require additional edging. Aluminum cabinets are lightweight but more expensive.

How should I mount upper cabinets securely in my Ford Transit camper van?

Use the ceiling or walls of the Transit cargo area as solid mounting points. Hanging standards, L-brackets, lag screws, bolts, and adhesive caulk provide secure mounting options to handle cabinet loads during transit.

What types of interior organizational systems work well for upper cabinets?

Install adjustable shelving, vertical dividers, specialized racks, hooks, bins, and compartments. Mix fixed and adjustable elements to hold gear and supplies neatly and securely in place while driving.

How can I access items stored in Ford Transit camper van upper cabinets?

Step stools, ladders, sliding shelves and drawers improve reach to upper cabinets. Labeling cabinets clearly also helps identify where specific gear is stored even if out of sight up high.