2006 Toyota Hiace Camper Conversion: Stylish, Compact and Built for Australian Van Life

Introduction: Why the Toyota Hiace Makes a Smart Camper Base

The Toyota Hiace has long been a favorite for camper van conversions across Australia and beyond. Thanks to its boxy, practical profile, dependable mechanicals and strong resale value, the Hiace is an excellent platform for a compact camper that balances comfort, usability and low running costs. This 2006 Hiace conversion — a collaborative build by owner Mel and Melbourne-based converter Jake Edmunds — demonstrates how thoughtful design and smart systems can transform a small van into a capable cross-country home-on-wheels.

Exterior Upgrades and Practical Roof Gear

From the outside, subtle upgrades reveal this Hiace’s camper identity without compromising its nimble footprint. Key exterior features include a Eurovision gull-style camping window on the driver’s side (left side in this right-hand-drive van) fitted with a bug screen and blackout shade, plus a Maxxair roof vent for airflow. A lightweight roof rack supports a 175 W Renogy solar panel that feeds the onboard electrical system — an important addition for boondocking and extended trips.

Interior Design: Bright, Cohesive and Functional

Slide open the side door and the professional quality of the fit-out becomes obvious. The interior is deliberately bright and homey: white walls, a shiplap ceiling that increases perceived height, and ample natural light. Walls are finished with a textured paint that recreates a raw concrete look, adding subtle industrial flair without feeling cold. A Tasmanian oak hardwood countertop and a small green tiled backsplash bring warmth and contrast to the neutral palette.

Open Layout and Privacy Options

The Hiace retains an open-plan layout between the driver’s cabin and living area, which helps with perceived space and airflow. Privacy is achieved with a large curtain that can be drawn between the cab and the living quarters — a simple, lightweight solution that’s practical for overnight stops.

Kitchen: Compact but Clever

The compact L-shaped kitchenette maximizes usable surface and storage. It features a round sink, a Bushman 52-liter upright fridge with a small freezer compartment, and three large drawers plus a tall pull-out storage column ideal for bottles or cooking oil. An open cubby provides additional stowage.

Outdoor Cooking and Utility

One of the standout functional elements is the slide-out cooktop drawer facing the doorway. This single-burner gas cooktop can be extended and used outside, reducing interior heat and improving ventilation while cooking. Below the pull-out unit sits a sprayer that doubles as an outdoor shower — a practical touch for beach stops and warm-weather travel.

Living and Sleeping Arrangements

The living area is split into a storage module on the driver’s side and a convertable couch on the passenger side. The storage module contains two large cupboards, a drawer and several nooks, plus a clever space around the wheel arch accessed by twin sliding doors. A fold-down table integrated into the storage unit provides a convenient dining or work surface, complete with a local power outlet and task lighting.

Sofa-to-Bed Conversion

The sofa converts into a 185 cm x 110 cm bed via two pull-out frame extensions that slide to meet the storage module on reinforced support rails. Rearranging cushions and adding bedding is all it takes to transform the lounge into a comfortable double berth. For daytime flexibility, a single extension can be deployed to form an L-shaped lounge. Additional amenities include an arched wall niche that doubles as a bedside shelf, a large under-seat storage compartment accessed through a hinged top panel, a wall-mounted Sirocco fan and the roof vent above.

Electrical and Water Systems

Electrical gear is concentrated behind the driver’s seat for easy access and serviceability. The system includes a 1,000 W inverter paired with a 100 Ah lithium-ion battery, replenished via the 175 W Renogy solar array on the roof or a DC-DC charger while driving. The kitchen side panel houses utility controls: two dimmer switches for cabin lighting, a water pump toggle and a battery monitor — a straightforward, user-friendly control cluster for typical van-life needs.

Vehicle Specifications and Practical Performance

Base vehicle: 2006 Toyota Hiace (owner-converted) - Key conversion components: 175 W Renogy solar panel, Maxxair vent, 100 Ah lithium battery, 1,000 W inverter, Bushman 52 L upright fridge, Tasmanian oak countertop. - Sleeping dimensions: 185 cm (L) x 110 cm (W). - Important features: slide-out external cooktop, outdoor shower sprayer, fold-down dining/work table, large under-seat and wheel-arch storage.

Performance-wise, the Hiace platform is known for reliability, predictable servicing and efficient fuel use relative to larger camper vans. Specific engine performance, payload and fuel consumption vary by year and engine option; prospective buyers should verify the 2006 model’s service history and payload capacity before long expeditions.

Market Positioning and Comparisons

In the compact camper segment, the Hiace competes with vans such as the Volkswagen Transporter, Mercedes-Benz Vito/Sprinter and Ford Transit Custom. Compared with these, the Hiace typically offers a lower purchase price, easier maintenance and a simpler, boxy cargo area that simplifies conversion. While European vans may provide more refinement or modern safety tech, the Hiace’s combination of rugged dependability and abundant aftermarket conversion parts keeps it popular among budget-conscious van-lifers and overlanders.

Conclusion: A Well-Rounded Small Camper

Mel and Jake’s 2006 Hiace conversion is a strong example of how a compact van can be transformed into a fully capable touring rig. The build balances style and function: bright, considered interior design; clever storage and utility solutions; and a reliable electrical setup that supports off-grid autonomy. For drivers seeking a maneuverable, economical camper with thoughtful amenities for cross-country travel, this Hiace is an excellent blueprint for what a compact camper conversion can accomplish.