Fellow camper Keif Hunniford figured out a simple way to add a children’s bed in his Volkswagen Vanagon. He made it from $10 worth of canvas and some PVC pipe. He was even able to design it so that it was completely out of the way when not in use. He reports that the project received two thumbs up from his daughter!

But how did he do it?

You’ll want to start by getting some measurements:

1. The available space in your vehicle
2. Who’s sleeping on the bed (and how much space do they need)?

Remember: You’ll need more fabric than the size of the bed!

This will allow you to buy the right length of PVC piping and canvas from Walmart, or your local fabric store.

Then, of course, your supplies:

1. 1-1 1/4″ PVC pipe (to your measurements)
2. 1-1 1/4″ 3-way PVC fittings (4)
3. 1-1 1/4 PVC flat caps optional (4)
4. 1/2″ washer head screws
5. Canvas or another strong fabric (to your measurements)
6. Webbing optional (to your measurements)
7. Power drill
8. PVC pipe-cutting tool
9. Tape measure
10. Needles and thread

To Build the Bed:

1. Cut your PVC pipe to the measurements you collected
2. Assemble the bed frame using the pipe and fittings
3. Cut your fabric with enough space to sew it around the piping
4. Sew the fabric together to create a sturdy bed
5. If your bed will be on the floor, attach the flat caps
6. If your bed will be hanging, send your webbing through the PVC pipe to create canopy style

*All photos were used with permission