5 Game-Changing Camper Van Upgrades to Transform How You Travel

5 Game-Changing Camper Van Upgrades to Transform How You Travel
One owner’s favorite mods and why they were worth it!       

By: Morgan Field

I’m Morgan Field—part-time van lifer, full-time joy enthusiast—rolling through life in my 2019 Winnebago Travato 59K with my sidekick Teddy, who never met a trail, treat, or nap he didn’t love.

When you live, work, and play in your van, a few key upgrades can completely transform how you travel. Below is a list of modifications that made the biggest difference in comfort, performance, joy, and peace of mind in my rig—each one tested, loved, and genuinely worth it.

Disclaimer: Every van’s different. Do your own research to confirm compatibility and safety before making any mods. This is not a direct recommendation from Winnebago; I’m just sharing what has worked for me.

1. RV Power Upgrades: From AGM to Lithium

When I first bought my van, it came with two 100AH AGM batteries. I replaced them with a single 300AH lithium—and that one swap tripled my power capacity.

In plain language: As my AGMs aged, I could barely boondock one night before needing to run the generator or chassis to recharge (paired with ample battery anxiety). Now, with the lithium upgrade, I can easily go multiple nights off-grid—no stress, no generator hum.

The difference is game-changing. With 300AH lithium, I can power the fridge, fans, lights, water pump, TV, etc., without worrying about draining the system too quickly. And it charges incredibly fast.

Why it matters:

• More usable energy: Lithium batteries can safely discharge much deeper and recharge faster. (Unlike AGMs, which shouldn’t drop below 50%, you can use nearly the full capacity of lithium.)
• Less maintenance: With a longer lifespan and much more capacity, there’s less need to obsess over every little dip.
• Weight savings: One lithium can replace two heavy AGMs.
• Higher efficiency: More power, better performance, quicker recharge.
• A Bluetooth companion app is the icing on the cake—it turned my battery anxiety into battery mastery. I can now see real-time amp-hour usage, charging rates, and exactly how solar, generator, shore power, and driving each contribute. It’s fascinating to finally understand how my system works—and, maybe it’s the nerd in me, but I really love it.

Read why other RVers love using lithium power!

2. From Solenoid to LiBIM

If you’ve ever had a solenoid fail, you know the pain. The solenoid is what carries charge from your alternator to your house batteries while driving—it’s essential, and it’s also prone to failure.

Upgrading to a LiBIM (Lithium Battery Isolation Manager) makes a huge difference. It’s smarter, safer, and designed to handle lithium systems. (If you’re still running AGMs, you can stick with a standard BIM instead.)

This small swap increases charging efficiency and reliability—meaning more consistent power while you drive, and fewer headaches on the road.

3. Wind Fairing for a Quieter, Smoother Ride

If you’ve ever heard a full-blown wind orchestra above your cab, you know how exhausting roof noise can be. That was me—until I installed a wind fairing from Colorado Fairing Co. The difference was instant: quieter, smoother, less drag, and a far more comfortable drive. A small upgrade with a massive impact.

Top Benefits of adding a wind fairing to your RV:

• Protects Your Solar Panels: Strong headwinds and passing semis can create lift under your front solar panels—potentially ripping them off. A fairing deflects airflow up and over, keeping everything secure and stress-free.
• Reduction in Noise and Drag: Fairings dramatically reduce front wind noise and drag. You’ll still hear some inevitable sounds—side wind, tires, or engine—but the front-end quieting is instantly noticeable.

Why Colorado Fairing Co. stands out:

• Tailored for Class B Vans: Most one-size-fits-all fairings leave wind gaps—fine for SUVs, but not ideal for campervans. Colorado Fairing Co. custom-builds each fairing around your exact roof layout—crossbars, antennas, solar panels—and aesthetic preferences for a seamless fit and full protection. 
• Exceptional Communication: Their team was patient, responsive, and incredibly knowledgeable. They guided me through customization and installation with precision and care. 
• Sleek, Strong, and Seriously Cool: Durable, stylish, and fully customizable—including wrap options. It looks absolutely incredible on the van!

The Results: After a 700+ mile test drive, I experienced noticeably less drag, a 90% quieter ride, smoother handling, and about 1 MPG improved fuel efficiency. 

Here are some other ways I have quieted my rig.

4. Bug Wall Screen

When my original screen door broke, it was replaced with a magnetic Bug Wall screen—and honestly, I love it so much! I can leave the van’s sliding door wide open, enjoy a full breeze, and still keep all the bugs out.

Why the bug screen is one of my favorite features:

• Hands-free entry: The magnetic closure seals itself automatically, so I can walk in and out easily (especially handy when carrying gear, groceries, or letting my dog come in and out).
• Bug-free airflow: It lets in all the fresh air while keeping the bugs out—a total must-have for enjoying fresh air on a beautiful day.
• Durable: The mesh is heavy-duty, so it stands up to everyday vanlife use.
• Easy to remove or roll up: When you want a totally open doorway, the screen can be neatly rolled up in minutes. 
• Magnetic tie-back option: You can magnetically secure the screen to the van frame to keep it open while loading gear or moving things in and out—super practical and clever design.

If you love fresh air but don't want to let all the bugs in, a Bug Wall is a game-changer. It’s one of those simple, functional upgrades that make van life feel so much more livable.

5. Vanmade Gear Shades for Comfort, Privacy, and Ease

When my front windshield cassette shade failed, I started exploring alternatives and discovered Vanmade Gear shades. Cassette shades are notorious for breaking, and replacements can run $400–$600 each. Even when fixed, they often fail again in a few years. I wanted a one-and-done solution that was durable and easy to use.

Vanmade Gear checked every box: easy setup, superior heat protection, complete privacy, and exceptional craftsmanship.

Why I chose Vanmade Gear for my camper van shades:

• Heat & Sun Protection: Living in Florida most of the year, keeping my van cool is essential. Vanmade is the only company I found offering reflective options—and it makes a noticeable difference in temperature regulation. (Learn more about keeping your RV cool in the summer.)
• Privacy & Stealth: Even with the lights on, no one can see in—giving an extra sense of stealth and safety.
• Dual-Sided Light Option: Vanmade Gear is the only company I found offering shades with light colors on both sides. Their reflective exterior blocks heat, while the light interior keeps the van feeling open and spacious—perfect for privacy and restful sleep without making a small space feel cramped.
• No Rattles: Unlike cassette shades, there’s no rattle or string failure.
• Easy to Use & Store: The Cab Set installs in under a minute and stores neatly between the driver’s seat and door. The Rear Set magnetically mounts to the window and opens partially to see out while driving or closes fully for privacy—in seconds.
• Built to Last: Made in Portland, OR, with a lifetime warranty and top-tier customer service. This upgrade gives peace of mind for all the years to come.

Vanmade Gear isn’t just a product—it’s a company that gets vanlife, listens to its community, and continuously innovates.

Finding Inspiration for Your Next Upgrade or Mod

There are endless creative camper van mods and upgrades out there. Join owner groups and forums for your make and model, plus broader vanlife communities, to spark ideas and learn what works (and what doesn’t).

Some mods on my radar:

• Generator muffler: I’ve done my homework—talked to a Cummins tech, got quotes, and connected with owners. For loud old-school generators, it’s a game-changer.
• Walkable roof panels: Some builds feature walkable panels or even walkable solar panels you can sit on—perfect for rooftop sunsets.
• Sewer Hose Storage: Upgrading my storage space to fit a longer hose. Nothing worse than needing to dump and realizing your hose can’t reach.
• Tech upgrades for fun: A Roku streams your favorite shows, or a mini projector with an outdoor screen transforms your campsite into a drive-in under the stars.

Important Note: Not All RV Techs Are Created Equally

Planning upgrades or mods? Work with a Class B specialist on anything you aren’t comfortable doing on your own. Many general RV techs haven’t mastered campervans. You need someone who knows your make and model, has done these mods before, and can anticipate your needs and challenges—not someone learning on your van. A trusted Class B tech saves time, money, and headaches while ensuring your upgrades are done safely.

You can go directly to the Winnebago Factory Service Center in Forest City, IA, for many of your service needs, but be sure to call first to make an appointment and discuss what you are hoping to have done: (866) 311-7133.

There are also other specialists available across North America who are often recommended in the Travato owner groups. For example, I trust Scott Griepentrog at B Haven with any electrical work, upgrades, or general van improvements. He specializes in Class B RVs, and people travel from all across the U.S. for his expertise. In my experience, Scott is honest, meticulous, and a creative rockstar when it comes to mods. 

Learn more about RV mod culture.

He runs a Travato mods group with weekly calls and offers pre-packaged solutions for the most common upgrades—making it easy to get exactly what your rig needs. You can even stay on their property in Tennessee while your van is worked on—a vanventure of its own! Scott’s wife and business partner, Crystal, handles all the behind-the-scenes logistics and communication magic. They’re a dynamic duo, running a super organized intake system and making you feel heard, understood, and at home from the moment you arrive. 

Final Thoughts on Camper Van Upgrades & Mods

From quieter rides and safer roofs, to restful nights and longer off-grid adventures—smart van mods and upgrades enhance every moment of life on the road. 

Happy Vanventures, and joyous mods to you! 
—Morgan & Teddy -- Follow along on Instagram (@themorganfield) or on Facebook.