A camper shell interior can feel like a tiny studio apartment on wheels when you plan the layout like a real room, not just a truck bed. I’ve set up a few micro-spaces over the years, and the same small-space rules always win: keep the floor clear, give everything a home, and make it cozy on purpose.
Build a Raised Platform Bed
My go-to camper shell interior idea is a platform bed that sits just above the wheel wells so you can actually stretch out and still have under-bed storage. I built mine with basic plywood and immediately loved how it turned a messy gear pile into a calm, flat “bedroom” surface.
You might give these a try:
- Heavy Duty Drawer Slides: Install sturdy slides to create smooth-gliding storage drawers beneath your platform bed for easy gear access.
- Memory Foam Mattress Topper fit for Vans: Add a trimmable foam layer to your plywood platform for instant comfort without sacrificing valuable headroom.
- Cabinet Pull Handles and Latch Hardware: Secure your under-bed drawers with durable pulls and latches to keep gear safe while driving.
Use a Cut-to-Fit Foam Mattress
I’ve slept on everything from pads to cushions, and a foam mattress cut to your exact shell shape is the comfort upgrade that matters most. When I trimmed mine to hug the wheel well curves, I gained inches of usable space without feeling cramped.
Try these:
- High-Density Upholstery Foam Slab: Create your perfect custom camper bed by measuring and cutting this supportive base layer to fit any unique space.
- Electric Roast & Foam Cutter Knife: Slice through thick foam cleanly and effortlessly to contour your mattress around awkward wheel wells and corners.
- Quilted Mattress Topper or Cover Fabric: Wrap your custom cut foam in soft, breathable fabric to protect the material and add a finished, cozy feel.
Hang Simple Window Curtains
I always add privacy curtains because they make the camper shell feel like a real room, not a display case. In my setup, a simple curtain track also helps with temperature control by blocking morning sun and chilly drafts.
Some handy options:
- Linen Curtain Panels: Add these breathable panels to soften your camper’s light and create a cozy, private atmosphere instantly.
- Adjustable Curtain Rod: Install this simple black rod easily to securely hang your curtains without needing complicated hardware.
- Magnetic Curtain Tiebacks: Use these convenient tiebacks to neatly hold your curtains open and let in natural light during the day.
Install Soft, Low-Profile Lighting
I learned the hard way that one harsh light makes a camper shell interior feel like a garage, so I switched to warm LED strip lighting and never looked back. I put my switch near the tailgate so I can reach it from bed—tiny detail, huge quality-of-life win.
A few suggestions:
- Warm White LED Strip Light: Transform your camper’s ambiance with soft illumination; choose dimmable options for perfect evening comfort.
- Aluminum LED Channel Diffuser: Soften harsh diode glare and protect your light strips while giving your installation a clean, professional finish.
- 12V Rocker Switch Panel: Control your lighting easily from bed by installing a convenient, accessible switch near your sleeping area.
Build Shallow Side Shelves
One of my favorite camper shell interior ideas is adding side rail shelving for the small stuff that usually disappears—headlamp, book, wipes, water bottle. I kept mine super shallow so I don’t bonk elbows, and it still added a ton of micro-storage.
Some ideas to consider:
- Floating Wall Shelves with Rails: Secure your essential gear while driving by installing these shallow shelves that feature protective front rails.
- Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle: Keep your hydration close at hand and temperature-controlled with a durable, sleek bottle for your travels.
- Glass Storage Jars with Lids: Organize small loose items or dry goods neatly on your new shelves with these clear, secure containers.
Layer in Washable Rugs
I like adding a small washable rug inside the camper shell because it softens the vibe and keeps grit from living in your bedding. In my setup, that little layer also adds a bit of thermal comfort when the bed floor gets chilly.
You might like:
- Small Boho Runner Rug: Add warmth and style to your compact space with a patterned runner that softens hard flooring instantly.
- Machine Washable Cotton Rug: Keep your sleeping area excitingly clean by choosing a durable cotton rug that is easy to wash.
- Non-Slip Entry Mat: Prevent slipping and sliding inside your camper with a textured mat designed to stay safely in place.
Hide a Fold-Down Work Nook
One of my favorite “why didn’t I do this sooner” camper shell interior ideas is a fold-down desk at the front wall for journaling, maps, or a laptop. I’ve used mine as a tiny work nook, and it makes rainy-day lounging feel intentional instead of cramped.
A few things you might like:
- Wall-Mounted Folding Desk Brackets: Create your own sturdy, custom-sized mobile workspace that easily collapses flat against the wall when finished.
- Unfinished Hardwood Board / Butcher Block: Stain or seal this natural wood surface to match your camper’s cozy interior aesthetic perfect for writing.
- Clip-On Reading Light: Illuminate your new workspace directly with a flexible light that requires no complex wiring or major installation.
Try a Magnetic Galley Wall
This is a little weird but so good: I added a magnetic strip area for spices, a lighter, and small tools, and it turned dead wall space into storage. In my camper shell interior, that “vertical pantry” keeps the kitchen bin from becoming a chaotic junk drawer.
Check if these fit your needs:
- Wall-Mounted Magnetic Knife Strip: Secure knives and metallic tools vertically to save drawer space and keep essential items within easy reach.
- Magnetic Spice Jars Set: Organize your seasonings on any metal surface or magnetic board without worrying about spills during travel.
- Adhesive Magnetic Sheets: Turn any cabinet door or wall section into a magnetic storage area with these cut-to-size sheets.
Hang an Indoor Micro-Hammock
For a real wow-factor camper shell interior, I once rigged a removable micro-hammock sling up high for puffy jackets and blankets (and yes, it looks cool). It’s basically a soft “second shelf,” and in my experience it makes the whole space feel more like a cozy cabin loft.
Possibly handy products:
- Macrame Hanging Chair Swing: Create a cozy reading nook and save floor space by installing a stylish macrame swing chair.
- Decorative Yoga Bolster Pillow: Add extra comfort and style to your hammock setup with a cylindrical bolster pillow for support.
- Heavy Duty Ceiling Hooks: Securely mount your hammock or storage net using reliable, easy-to-install ceiling hooks designed for hanging.
