17 MOST POPULAR QUESTIONS

Before we connect on a call, take a moment to read through these that way, we can hit the ground running and make real progress on our call.

WHAT IS YOUR WARRANTY

All of our van conversions come with a 3-year limited warranty that covers craftsmanship, electrical, and plumbing systems we install. This warranty gives you peace of mind that your van is built to last. if anything related to our work fails under normal use, we’ll make it right.

What price do your builds start at

Our builds start at $95,000 for the full core layout. Most clients add a few personal touches like windows, upgraded systems, or exterior mods, and those choices usually bring the final price to around $110,000. You only pay for what you genuinely want in your van, nothing more.

what toilet do we use?

We primarily use either a Dry Flush or a Composting Toilet both are excellent, low-maintenance options. They’re simple to use, completely odor-free, and don’t require plumbing or chemicals. These are the only two systems we recommend and trust for a clean, hassle-free experience on the road.

how long does a build take?

Most Treasure Van builds take 10-12 weeks from the moment we begin your conversion. The exact timeline depends on the features you choose. additions like extra windows, upgraded electrical systems, custom cabinetry, or exterior mods can add a little time. We’ll always give you a transparent timeline before we start and keep you updated every step of the way.

how much power do i have?

Each van includes a 600 amp-hour lithium battery system, a 3000W inverter, and 350W of solar, about twice as much power as most vans on the market. You can charge from solar, shore power, or while driving, giving you dependable off-grid energy for everything from cooking to working remotely.

what makes your vans different?

We build only a handful of vans each year, focusing on craftsmanship, quality, and care over volume. Every surface is made with durable Formica laminate, not painted wood, for a scratch-resistant, easy-to-clean finish that lasts.

Our builds include everything you need for long-term travel: 600Ah of lithium power, a 200L fridge/freezer, and thoughtfully designed layouts that feel bright, spacious, and like home.

Above all, our clients feel cared for every step of the way. We build relationships, not just vans, and that’s what truly sets us apart.

WHERE ARE YOU LOCATED

We’re based in beautiful Montecito, California, and build all our vans right here along the Central Coast. We work with clients across the U.S. and can arrange delivery or pickup anywhere in the country

do you offer customizations

Yes, we offer a range of thoughtful customizations while keeping our proven layout that’s been refined and tested over years of experience. You can personalize details such as handle styles, cushion fabrics, drawer front colors, wall finishes, and wood type. we typically use maple, but oak or darker tones are available. You can also choose to add or remove windows, modify the shower area for more counter space, or include an additional seat with a seatbelt behind the passenger. Our goal is to give you creative freedom within a layout that’s designed for comfort, practicality, and a beautiful flow inside the van.

how long can i go off-grid for?

You can comfortably stay off-grid for weeks at a time. Every van includes 600 amp hours of lithium power, about double what most builds offer, plus solar and alternator charging for reliable energy in any condition.

The real limit isn’t power, but food and water. With a 200-liter fridge/freezer and a 55-gallon freshwater tank, you can cook, shower, and live comfortably off-grid for extended stretches without needing to restock.

can i finance a build?

Yes! We work closely with Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (MBFS) to help clients finance their vehicles, and there are also several other lenders that specialize in van and RV financing. We’re happy to point you in the right direction and help with the documentation needed to make financing simple.

should i get a 4x4?

It depends on your travel plans. If you’ll be driving through snow, mud, or rugged off-road terrain, a 4x4 (or AWD) offers extra traction and peace of mind. That said, in my experience, a 4x4 isn’t needed about 98% of the time, a 2WD Sprinter handles beautifully on highways, gravel roads, and most adventures while saving you money on cost and fuel.

are these vans 4 season?

If the client wishes We can design our builds for all-season comfort, with AC, diesel heating, heated batteries, and heated fresh and grey water tanks. You can also choose to add heat-traced and insulated water lines for extra winter protection.

That said, no van is truly 4-season, if left off and unattended in extreme cold, any vehicle can eventually freeze. But with our setup and the right use, your van can handle year-round adventures comfortably and reliably.

WHAT IS YOUR DEPOSIT PROCESS

Once we’ve had enough conversations for you to feel fully informed and confident about moving forward, we take a $2,500 deposit to secure your design consultation. This amount goes toward your final build cost and allows us to dive into materials, features, and customizations in detail. After your design is approved, 75% of the build cost is due before we begin construction, with the remaining 25% due upon completion when you pick up your van.

do you help buy the van/can i bring you my old van

Yes to both! We have excellent contacts across California, both north and south, and can help you find a great deal and source the perfect vehicle. We also regularly work with clients who already own an empty Sprinter and want us to handle the full conversion.

what type of insulation do we use?

We use 100% natural sheep’s wool insulation because it’s non-toxic, moisture-regulating, and mold-resistant. It keeps your van warm in winter, cool in summer, and creates a quiet, healthy, and comfortable living space year-round.

are the vans hard to drive?

Sprinters are surprisingly easy to handle, even for those who’ve never driven anything larger than an SUV or pickup. With smooth steering, excellent visibility, and a 360° bird’s-eye view camera, parking and maneuvering are effortless. After just a drive or two, most people feel completely comfortable behind the wheel.

why choose treasure vans?

Because we build differently. We’re not a factory pushing out high-volume conversions. we create only six vans a year, giving each one the time, precision, and care it deserves.

Our small, dedicated team stays personally involved with every client from start to finish. You’ll always know who’s building your van, and every decision is made with your vision in mind.

By keeping our operation intentionally small, we’ve cut unnecessary overhead and put every dollar directly into premium materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and long-term reliability.