Tanya and Derec are living proof that wheelchair-accessible van life is absolutely doable. After neurological issues pushed Tanya into early retirement, the couple transformed a Ram ProMaster cargo van into a fully accessible home on wheels — complete with an under-vehicle wheelchair lift, lowered bed, hand controls, and a separate bathroom cargo trailer. With help from the VA, they now travel full-time with their service dog and are developing grants to help more wheelchair users experience life on the road.
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Adjustable Chair for Easy Transfers
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Under-Vehicle Wheelchair Lift
Images via Tiny Home Tours
Video Tour
Design Details
- Owners: Tanya and Derec
- Vehicle: Ram ProMaster cargo van
- Accessibility Features: Wheelchair lift, lowered bed, hand controls
- Lift Location: Under-vehicle (doesn’t take up interior space)
- Bathroom: Separate cargo trailer
- Service Animal: Yes
- Funding Assistance: VA (Veterans Affairs)
- Lifestyle: Full-time travel
- Advocacy: Developing grants for wheelchair users
What Makes This Build Special
- Under-Vehicle Lifts Save Interior Space: Mounting the wheelchair lift underneath the van preserves living space inside
- Cargo Trailers Expand Accessibility: A separate bathroom trailer provides the space needed for accessible facilities without compromising the van layout
- VA Assistance Available: Veterans may qualify for funding to help with accessible vehicle modifications
- Lowered Beds Enable Transfers: Adjustable and lowered sleeping surfaces make it easier to transfer from a wheelchair
- Hand Controls Make Driving Possible: Modified controls allow wheelchair users to drive their own vehicles and maintain independence
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How do you make a van wheelchair accessible?
Most wheelchair-accessible vans include a lift or ramp, lowered flooring or raised roofs for headroom, wheelchair tie-downs, and modified seating. Some travelers also add hand controls, adjustable driver’s seats, and accessible sleeping arrangements like lowered beds.
Q: Can someone in a wheelchair live full-time in a van?
Yes—with the right modifications. Many wheelchair users travel or live full-time in vans by adding accessibility features such as lifts, wider aisles, hand controls, accessible bathrooms, and exterior cargo trailers for extra space.
Q: What kind of van is best for wheelchair accessibility?
Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, and RAM ProMaster vans are the most common choices because they offer high roofs, wide sliding doors, and plenty of interior build-out space.
Q: How much does it cost to convert a van for wheelchair access?
A DIY accessible conversion can range from $10,000 to $40,000 depending on features. Professional wheelchair lifts and hand controls can add $5,000–$15,000+. Grants and VA assistance may be available for veterans.
Learn More
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- Watch on Tiny Home Tours
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Alex
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My Rv is good just to travel in maybe sleep in while on a short trip out of town.
But to live in not for me . I do need more room than that. Like a living room, a bigger bedroom w closet.
Then my kitchen and down the hall bathroom. Soo more space for me is needed.
Thanks so much for sharing, Linda! Everyone’s needs are different, and that’s what I love about the tiny/alternative living world — there’s a setup for every lifestyle. Vans and small RVs are perfect for travel, but having a bit more room for day-to-day living absolutely makes sense. A living room and larger bedroom can make all the difference in feeling comfortable long-term. Thanks again for reading and being part of the community! You should check out some of these sections of our website, where you’ll find some more spacious versions of tiny homes that I think you’ll like:
Small Houses
https://tinyhousetalk.com/category/small-houses/
Park Models
https://tinyhousetalk.com/category/park-model-tiny-homes/
What an amazing love story! The van is so cool, but you guys are the coolest. Happy trails!
I love how you put that, Marsha — it really *is* an amazing love story! Their setup is impressive, but their attitude and teamwork are what truly make it special. Thanks for the kind words and for being here with us on the journey!