When it comes to designing your campervan, lighting plays a crucial role, especially if you’re working with a smaller space. The right lighting can make your campervan feel larger, more welcoming, and incredibly stylish, all while being functional. Whether you're a seasoned van-lifer or just starting your conversion journey, these top 10 lighting tips will help you maximise both space and style in your small campervan.
1. Prioritise Multi-Functional Lighting
In a small campervan, every inch counts, so choosing lighting that serves more than one purpose is essential. Multi-functional lights, like the Nord USB Spotlight, offer both illumination and the convenience of charging your devices. This clever use of lighting not only saves space but also adds to the overall functionality of your van.
2. Opt for Surface-Mounted Lights
Surface-mounted lights are a brilliant choice for small spaces, as they don’t require cutting into walls or ceilings. The EasyFit Surface-Mount Downlights are perfect for this purpose, offering a sleek, modern look without the hassle of complex installation. These lights sit flush against the surface, helping to keep your space feeling open and uncluttered.
3. Utilise Recessed Downlights
Recessed downlights are another great option for small campervans, if your layout allows for a cavity or void. By installing them into the ceiling or walls, you free up valuable headroom and reduce visual clutter. The Peny Recessed Downlight is a superb choice, providing focused light without taking up extra space. This helps maintain a clean and spacious interior.
4. Incorporate LED Strip Lights for Ambiance
LED strip lights are a versatile solution for adding ambient lighting to your campervan. These thin, flexible lights can be placed under cabinets, along the edges of shelves, or around the bed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Because they’re so low-profile, 12V LED strip lights won’t intrude on your limited space, making them ideal for smaller vans.
5. Choose Dimmable Lights for Flexibility
Small spaces benefit greatly from flexible lighting options. Dimmable lights allow you to adjust the brightness according to your needs, whether you’re reading a book or winding down for the night. Dimming capabilities are especially useful in a campervan, where you might want to create a cosy atmosphere after a long day of exploring. All BrightVans lights are dimmer guaranteed.
6. Group Lights by Style
For a cohesive and stylish look, consider grouping lights from the same design family. BrightVans offers several ranges that make it easy to maintain a consistent aesthetic throughout your van. For instance, the Nordic-inspired range includes spotlights and USB wall lights that work together to create a harmonious design. Alternatively, the Nevis range offers a sleek, minimalist appeal that’s perfect for modern van conversions.
7. Maximise Natural Light
While artificial lighting is crucial, don’t forget to maximise natural light as well. Consider installing larger windows or skylights to allow more daylight into your van. During the day, this reduces the need for artificial lighting, saving energy and making your space feel larger and airier.
8. Use Task Lighting in Key Areas
In a small campervan, it’s important to ensure that each area is well-lit for its intended use. Task lighting, such as under-cabinet lights in the kitchen or reading lights near the bed, ensures you have sufficient light where you need it most.
9. Consider Warm White Lighting
The colour temperature of your lights can have a big impact on the feel of your space. Warm white lighting (around 2700K to 3000K) creates a cosy, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for relaxing after a day of travel. In a small campervan, where comfort is key, warm white lighting helps create a homely environment.
10. Think About Energy Efficiency
Finally, when choosing lighting for your small campervan, it’s essential to consider energy efficiency. LED lights are highly energy-efficient, making them ideal for off-grid living. They draw minimal power from your battery while still providing bright, effective lighting, ensuring you won’t be left in the dark.
Creating a well-lit, stylish, and functional small campervan is all about making smart lighting choices. By prioritising multi-functional lights, maximising natural light, and choosing energy-efficient options, you can transform your van into a cosy and inviting space that feels much larger than it is. Whether you’re looking for ambient strip lights, recessed downlights, or task lighting, BrightVans has everything you need to light up your campervan in style.
Ready to start your campervan lighting journey? Explore our range of 12V lights today and find the perfect solutions for your space.