Building a Van On a Budget: My Tool Choices
One of the questions I get asked often is,
"What tools am I using for my van build?"
Before I answer that, it's important to understand that I'm building this van on a budget. I simply don't have the luxury of purchasing top-of-the-range tools. If I had a larger budget, I would probably make different choices.
I completely understand the loyalty many people have towards particular tool brands, especially tradespeople who rely on their tools every day. I also know how overwhelming it can feel when you're standing in the hardware store, looking at dozens of options and wondering which to choose.
Rather than telling you what you should buy, I've simply shared the tools that have worked well for me. I've also included links where available, so you can easily find the products if you'd like to learn more.
Every tool on this list has earned its place, and I wouldn't recommend anything that I wasn't happy with.
If you're thinking about building a van but feel intimidated by the cost of tools, I hope this post shows that it's possible to get started without spending a fortune.
Before you purchase anything...choose one battery platform.
One of the best decisions I made was to choose a single tool brand and stick with it. Batteries are expensive, and different brands generally don't share the same battery system.
I've got 3x Ozito batteries, and 1 x Makita (for my little vacuum).
By keeping all my cordless tools within the same brand, I can easily swap batteries between tools. I would strongly recommend having at least two batteries (I've got three). It saves a lot of time compared to constantly removing batteries and moving them from one tool to another.
Charge them up overnight ready for van building the next day.
I chose OZITO for my build.
These are my three batteries.
Essential Power Tools
If I were starting my van build all over again, these are the power tools I would make sure I had from the beginning. All of them have served me well throughout the build so far.
Drill
A drill was the very first power tool I purchased. It's essential for almost every stage of the build.
Once I started building the timber frame, I quickly realised how useful an impact driver would be. While my drill handled most of the metal drilling, the impact driver made driving screws and fasteners much quicker and easier. Many retailers sell drill and driver kits together, which can be a more affordable option than buying them separately.
Circular Saw
My circular saw has been invaluable for making straight, clean cuts. I have used it for cutting plywood and timber pieces of all sizes.
Jigsaw
Perfect for curved cuts and awkward shapes where a circular saw simply won't work.
You're definitely going to need a jigsaw to cut out your plywood floor, as well as any and all holes in the van for windows, vents etc.
Orbital Sander
This tool has saved me countless hours and helped create a much smoother finish on timber surfaces.
The Dremel is one of my favourite tools and has been so useful. It's great for sanding, but one of its best jobs so far has been helping remove stripped screws by cutting a slot into the screw head so it can be removed with a flat-head screwdriver.
Definitely battery operated!
I use a Kreg double pocket hole jig when joining timber. It creates strong, neat joints and has been particularly useful while building the frame. I invested in this new model and haven't looked back. I insert the wood, drill my two holes and then remove. I use it constantly during the build.
Essential Measuring and Setup Tools
These tools might not be exciting, but they're absolutely necessary:
Spirit Level (Straight Edge)
Clamps
You'll need at least 4.
In fact, I'd argue that you can never have too many clamps!
I purchased 2 x larger, and 2 x smaller.
Having differing sizes is great.
Other Handy Tools
You're going to need these too.
I needed this set to remove any and all nuts and bolts while I was in the "cleaning out" stage of the build.
This Ryobi drill bit set was a great starting point. As the build progressed, I upgraded my most-used drill bits to better-quality ones that could easily handle both metal and timber.
Screwdrivers: Flathead and Star
File
Pliers
Clear Protective Glasses
Absolute necessity!
Protective Gloves
Tool "Wishlist"
I'll need to purchase one of these to help me to cut my windows soon. My little Makita vacuum battery will fit it.
Final Thoughts
This build is about making progress with what I can afford and proving that you don't need a professional workshop to start building your dream.
If you're considering a van build, don't let a limited budget stop you. Start with the essentials, add tools as you need them, and remember that every van build begins with a single cut, screw, and measuring tape.
Every chapter is still unfolding. Thanks for being here and sharing the journey with me.
There’s still so much more to come.
Quick links
A Quick Note About This Blog
I built this blog using Systeme.io and honestly, it's become my one-stop shop for just about everything online. For $17 USD per month on the Start-up plan, I can manage my contacts, email lists, funnels, courses, campaigns, website, blog, and more—all from one dashboard.
If you've ever thought about starting a blog, website, course, or online business, you can check it out using my link in the bottom right-hand corner of this page.
Affiliate Disclaimer
Yes, there are a few affiliate links on this blog. If you purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you.
Every product I recommend and link, is something I have personally purchased and used during my van build. If I didn't find it useful, I didn't recommend it!
Any commissions earned help support the running of this blog and allow me to continue sharing my van build journey.
Thanks for being here and cheering on the Little Red Engine! 🚐❤️
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