According to several independent industry reports (including Camp'n'Connect), by 2026, more and more campers will be opting for modular, non-permanently installed interior systems instead of traditional built-in furniture. The reason: less weight, full flexibility between everyday car and camper, and no loss of value due to drill holes in the vehicle.
In a nutshell:
-
Modular systems instead of permanent installations are one of the most frequently cited van life trends for 2026
-
According to its own GSC data, BOXIO RACK has seen a 460% increase in clicks compared to the previous year—the trend is being confirmed in real-world use
-
No loss in value for leased or used vehicles, since nothing is drilled into or glued to the vehicle
-
A single system can be swapped between multiple vehicles
-
This is particularly relevant for electric vans, as no additional weight is added by fixed furniture
Why 2026 is the turning point
Three trends are converging right now: First, leasing and subscription models for vans are booming—people who return their vehicles after three years don’t want to leave drill holes behind. Second, the number of electric vans (Kia PV5, VW ID Buzz, Renault Trafic E-Tech) is growing, and with these models, every kilogram of extra weight directly reduces the range. Third, more and more people are using their vehicles as everyday cars during the week and only as campers on the weekends—a fixed interior setup makes this switch unnecessarily complicated.
The three reasons why modular systems beat fixed installations
Weight & Range. A traditional fixed interior setup can easily add 80–150 kg of extra weight—which directly affects the range of electric vans. Modular boxes weigh significantly less and can be completely removed from the vehicle when not in use.
Flexibility: a camper today, an everyday car tomorrow. If you also use your vehicle for work, you don’t want to permanently sacrifice cargo space. With a modular system, you slide the boxes in when you need them—and out when you don’t.
Preserving Resale Value: No drilling, no sawing. A permanent installation usually means drill holes in the floor or walls. For leased vehicles, this is often a contractual issue, and it lowers the resale value. Modular systems leave the vehicle in its original condition.
How BOXIO RACK Puts This Principle into Practice
The BOXIO RACK is the practical embodiment of this trend: Eurobox modules that can be freely combined, plus a support surface for your bed. Whether in the Kia PV5, the VW ID Buzz, or the Caddy—the principle remains the same: you take the modules you need at the moment and leave the rest at home. No tools or screws required, unless you want extra stability for very rough terrain.
Who Still Benefits from a Permanent Installation
To be honest: If you use your vehicle exclusively as a camper and will never need it as an everyday car again, a permanent installation offers a bit more convenience in the details (e.g., permanently integrated water tanks). For everyone else—and according to the latest trend reports, that’s the clear majority—the modular solution is the more practical choice.
Frequently Asked Questions About Modular Conversion Systems
What does “modular conversion system” mean in the context of camping? A modular system consists of individual, freely combinable elements (e.g., storage boxes, surfaces) that are placed in the vehicle without being permanently screwed or glued in place—unlike traditional built-in furniture.
Is a modular system just as stable as a fixed installation? For normal everyday camping, yes. On very uneven terrain or during continuous use, additional securing is recommended, such as using existing tie-down eyes.
Which vehicles are suitable for modular systems like BOXIO RACK? Basically any vehicle with a flat cargo floor—from compact vans (VW Caddy, Dacia Jogger) to large vans (VW ID Buzz, Kia PV5).
Will my vehicle lose value if I install a permanent system? Often, yes—especially if there are drill holes or permanently glued components. Modular systems leave no traces.
Can I switch a modular system between multiple cars? Yes, as long as the cargo area has similar dimensions, the system can be easily transferred.
How much does a modular cargo system cost compared to a permanent installation? Modular systems like the BOXIO RACK are usually significantly less expensive than a professional permanent installation, which can quickly run into the four-digit range.
Conclusion
The trend for 2026 is clear: away from expensive, heavy permanent installations and toward flexible, modular systems. If you need your vehicle for more than just camping, the BOXIO RACK offers the most practical solution—with no drilling, no sawing, and no loss of value.
Internal Links: RACK Collection, van-conversion-ideas, campervan-equipment, camping-with-kia-pv5 CTA: RACK product page
