When people talk about investing, they usually mean buying property. But there's another option that's a lot more practical for many people: set up a van properly and rent it out when you're not using it.
We've been doing this through Camplify, and it's been a great way to earn extra income from a vehicle we already love.
Our Real Example: Hiacinda (2008 Toyota LWB Hiace)
We bought a 2008 Toyota LWB Hiace for $13,000 AUD — 190,000 km on the clock. Over the last 12 months, it's made $22,000 AUD in bookings.
Most bookings are weekends, plus longer trips during holiday periods. One recent hire was a 40-day trip from Sydney to Cairns.
Update: The van now has 239,000 km on the clock.
Costs to Factor In (So You're Not Guessing)
Like any asset, there are running costs. Over the year we've spent roughly:
- Rego: ~$2,000 per year
- Tyres: ~$1,000
- Servicing: ~$450–$500 every 10,000 km
- Camplify Premium Cover: ~$150/month (includes damage protection plus better visibility in the app)
- Major issues: none (touch wood)
It's also confirmed what people say: Toyota Hiaces are tough if you keep on top of servicing. And yes — when other people use your van, expect the odd mark. Our biggest issue over the year was one major scratch.
Note: The $22,000 figure is bookings income before running costs. Results vary depending on your van, location, and how often you list it.
Why We Use Camplify
Camplify makes hiring out a van far more manageable, especially if you're new to it. A few things we rate:
- Damage protection options (a big one)
- 24/7 support
- Helpful team when something comes up
- Useful resources for owners and travellers
If you're looking into the owner side, these pages are worth a read:
- How Camplify owners can earn income
- Club Camplify (damage protection & membership)
- Camplify road trip ideas
Full Fit-Out vs Modular Camping Kit: What's Right for You?
If you're thinking about turning your van into an income earner, the first decision is straightforward.
Option A: Full Internal Conversion (~$30,000)
A full fit-out is the complete setup — built for comfort, longer trips, and a premium feel. Our Hiace setup includes:
- 240V power
- Solar system
- Laptop-friendly charging and power
- Finished interior (walls + floors)
- Extra comforts (yes, even a coffee machine)
If you want a similar level of setup, you're generally looking at around $30,000 for the inside conversion.
Option B: Modular Camping Kit (~$13,000)
If your van's interior is already finished — like a VW Multivan or a newer Hiace with seats, floor, and trim already done — a modular kit can be a smarter and cheaper way to get started. Our full modular kit is around $13,000.
→ See our modular van conversion kits
We also have a client using one of our kits on Camplify who's earned similar money over a year — with a simpler, more affordable setup.
Quick Comparison
| Full Internal Conversion | Modular Camping Kit | |
|---|---|---|
| Approx cost | ~$30,000 | ~$13,000 |
| Best for | Frequent hires, longer trips | Getting started, weekenders, keeping seats/interior |
| Install | Permanent / semi-permanent | Slide-in / removable |
| Interior finish | Walls + floors + full build | Uses your existing interior |
| Power | 240V + solar included | Depends on setup / add-ons |
| Big advantage | A home on a wheel feel | Much lower cost (save ~$17k) |
Want to Rent Your Van Out? We Can Help You Set It Up.
If you're keen to turn your van into an asset, we can help you choose the right path based on your van, budget, and how you want to use it. We can help with:
- Full custom fit-outs
- Modular conversion kits
- Practical rental-friendly setup advice (the little details matter)
- Helping you set up your Camplify owner account so you're ready to list
Send us your van model and your budget, and we'll tell you what we'd recommend.
