This New Camper Van Service Is Like Airbnb for #VanLifers

The allure of #vanlife is hard to ignore—but most campers aren’t on the road for more than a month each year, which makes storage and maintenance burdensome. California-based camper van conversion company Texino just launched a new program that makes it easy for #vanlifers to rent out their rides while recouping costs and skipping some of the hassles of van ownership. 

Texino can help you purchase or finance a camper van, which they’ll kit out with your choice of colors, materials, features, and equipment. You can then rent the van through Texino to help recoup costs—so long as it’s available for at least two weeks each month. After program fees, income generated from the rental is split down the middle.

As a licensed upfitter with Mercedes-Benz, Texino excels at converting Metris and Sprinter vans. Their design team is adept at installing everything needed for on-the-road living—including cabinetry, kitchenettes, solar panels, shower attachments, and dimmable lights.

"We’re focused on providing a modern, minimal look in contrast to outdated aesthetics like tribal tattoo stripe kits you used to see in the U.S.," says company founder Nick Devane. "We are continuing to experiment with sustainable and durable raw materials: wool, cork, bamboo, recycled plastics, etc. We then pair our design with the best equipment and components available." 

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Texino’s rental model aims to make #vanlife accessible to more people by helping owners offset the costs of ownership, and by making more vans available to rent. But Devane is careful not to mince their offering with the lifestyle of the live-aboard road warrior. "We’re most interested in the part-time escape for urban dwellers and making owning and using a camper van more accessible," he says.  

The income generated can help owners pay off the loan from financing the build. Those with already kitted-out vans can also rent through Texino to help cover basic ownership costs. Texino covers cleaning, routine maintenance, and storage of your vehicle when it isn’t being used.

Texino currently operates out of Los Angeles, where renters can pick up and drop off vans. One-way trips can also be arranged for an added fee—although Mexico is unfortunately off-limits for insurance reasons. And yes, you can take your dog with you.

Related Reading:

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7 Van Conversion Companies That Will Do the Legwork For You

10 Van Lifers You Should Follow on Instagram Right Now