Track current expenses for 3 months to establish baseline spending. Research van purchase costs ($5,000-80,000) and conversion expenses ($3,000-50,000). Budget for ongoing costs: fuel ($200-600/month), insurance ($100-200/month), maintenance ($100-300/month), campgrounds ($0-800/month), food ($300-600/month), phone/internet ($100-300/month), and healthcare ($200-500/month). Add 10-15% contingency fund. Consider income sources and work requirements. Create separate emergency fund covering 3-6 months of expenses.
