Building your own campervan is one of the most exciting and rewarding adventures you can experience.
At Vancowork in sunny Portugal, we see DIY builders from all over Europe coming to turn their van dreams into reality.
But no matter where you're from, there are some common mistakes that can make your van build harder than it should be.
Today, we’ll help you avoid them — so you can focus on creating the perfect campervan and enjoying the best of vanlife in Portugal!
1. Not Having a Clear Plan
Many first-time builders start full of energy... but without a real plan.
Result: lost time, extra costs, and frustration.
At Vancowork, we help you plan your project from A to Z, with expert advice and examples to organize your ideas before you even start building.
2. Choosing the Wrong Tools (or Having No Tools at All)
Professional tools are essential for a safe, solid build.
But transporting tools across Europe can be complicated — and buying everything new is expensive.
That’s why at Vancowork, our campervan workshop rental includes all the essential tools you need.
From basic carpentry to electrical installations, everything is ready for you when you arrive.
3. Underestimating the Time Needed
Building a van always takes longer than you expect.
If you don’t plan realistic timelines, it can turn a dream trip into a stressful experience.
We recommend booking your workshop rental for a little longer than you think you’ll need — and remember, working near the beach in Portugal makes any extra days a pleasure, not a problem!
4. Ignoring Local Supplies and Services
Some builders arrive with a van full of imported materials... only to find out they could have saved a lot by buying locally.
Around Vancowork, you’ll find IKEA, Leroy Merlin, and many local markets just a few minutes away.
Plus, we have our own shop onsite with all the essentials for van building — insulation, electrical materials, plumbing items, and much more.
Even if you need to buy something extra that's not in stock, Amazon delivers here in about 3 days — so you can stay focused on your project without any stress.
No need to stop working or waste time searching: pick what you need fast and keep building non-stop!
5. Forgetting About Legal Requirements
Many people don’t realize that their DIY van must meet certain legal standards if they want to travel or sell it in the future.
In Portugal, Vancowork offers campervan legalization services to help you with inspections, certifications, and making sure your van is road-legal.
6. Not Asking for Help When Needed
Some DIY builders are afraid to ask questions — they want to do everything alone.
But building a campervan is complicated, and asking for a little help can save you from big mistakes.
At Vancowork, you’re never alone.
Even if you have zero experience in van building, our team can advise you at every step — so you can feel confident without being an expert.
It’s your build, your hands — but we're here to guide you when you need it!
7. Building in the Wrong Place
The truth?
Where you choose to build your van matters more than you think.
Cold rainy weather, expensive cities, complicated logistics — they can all turn your build into a nightmare.
That’s why more and more people are choosing Portugal — and specifically Vancowork:
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5 minutes from Porto Airport (easy to reach from anywhere in Europe)
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15 minutes from downtown Porto (culture, food, nightlife!)
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5 minutes from beautiful beaches (relax after a day of building)
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Mild weather all year long
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Affordable living and materials
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Friendly international community
Portugal isn't just where you build your van.
It’s where you start living your vanlife.
Why Building Your Own Van Is A Life-Changing Experience
At Vancowork, we truly believe that everyone should build a campervan at least once in their life.
When you create your own home on wheels, you build more than just furniture —
you build a deep connection with your van, a connection you can never feel when buying something ready-made.
The time, the sweat, the creativity... it all makes your adventures even more meaningful.
And we're here to make that journey unforgettable.
Ready to Build Your Dream Campervan in Portugal?
At Vancowork, we offer everything you need:
- Fully equipped van conversion coworking space
- Expert support even for beginners
- Private onsite shop with all the essential materials
- Amazon deliveries in just 3 days if you need something extra
- Great location near Porto, the beach, and major suppliers
- Help with accommodation nearby
- Supplies available locally and onsite
- Campervan legalization services
Your DIY campervan project starts here — and your Portuguese adventure is waiting.
Contact us today to book your workstation and start your dream build!