Camper Insulation
Thermal and acoustic insulation is the foundation of a comfortable van conversion. A poorly insulated van becomes an oven in summer and a freezer in winter, while also amplifying rain and traffic noise. Choosing the right material depends on your budget, the climate zones you travel in, and how easy you want the installation to be. Here we compare the four most commonly used materials.
Comparison
| Option | Type | Price | Weight | Performance | Best for... |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Armaflex (Self-Adhesive Elastomeric Foam) | Armaflex | $170 - $400 | 4 kg | The best all-in-one option for most van conversions, especially in moderate climates | |
| Rock Wool (Rockwool style) | Rock Wool | $45 - $110 | 8 kg | Tight budgets and those who prioritize acoustic insulation alongside thermal | |
| XPS (Extruded Polystyrene / Foamboard) | XPS | $55 - $130 | 3 kg | Floors and flat surfaces where rigidity is an advantage | |
| Reflectix (Reflective Bubble Insulation) | Reflectix | $35 - $90 | 1 kg | Only as a reflective supplement or for window covers, never as primary insulation |
Armaflex (Self-Adhesive Elastomeric Foam)
Armaflex
- Excellent thermal insulation: R-value of 3.5-4.0 per 3/4 inch of thickness
- Self-adhesive: sticks directly to the metal without additional glues
- Built-in vapor barrier: prevents condensation and mold growth
- Flexible and easy to cut, conforms to irregular body panel shapes
- Most expensive material: $170-$400 to insulate a full van
- 3/4-inch thickness may not be enough for very cold climates (5°F / -15°C)
- Adhesive loses effectiveness on dirty or greasy surfaces
- Requires thorough cleaning and degreasing of metal before application
Rock Wool (Rockwool style)
Rock Wool
- Very affordable: from $45 to insulate an entire van
- Excellent thermal insulation: R-value of 3.0-4.0 per inch depending on density
- Superior acoustic insulation: absorbs rain, engine, and traffic noise
- Fireproof and fire-resistant, adds passive safety
- Absorbs moisture if not installed with a proper vapor barrier
- Irritating during installation: requires gloves, mask, and goggles
- Needs a frame or furring strips to hold it in walls and ceiling
- Heavier than Armaflex or XPS: adds 18-33 lbs to the van
XPS (Extruded Polystyrene / Foamboard)
XPS
- Does not absorb moisture: resistant to water and condensation
- Good R-value: 3.5-5.0 per inch depending on thickness
- Lightweight and rigid: easy to cut with a utility knife and fit between ribs
- Affordable: $55-$130 depending on thickness and coverage area
- Rigid: doesn't conform to curved surfaces without cutting into small pieces
- Leaves gaps between boards and metal that can cause condensation
- Not self-adhesive: needs construction adhesive or spray foam to seal
- Flammable: emits toxic fumes when burning, requires protective covering
Reflectix (Reflective Bubble Insulation)
Reflectix
- Very affordable and ultra-lightweight: barely adds weight to the van
- Reflects radiant heat: useful as an additional layer under Armaflex
- Easy to install and cut with scissors
- Works well as window and windshield insulation (reflective use)
- Very low R-value as primary insulation: only R-1.0 without an air gap
- Limited as standalone insulation and normally combined with other materials
- Marketing overstates its performance: only works well with an air gap
- Compresses easily, losing the air gap and therefore its effectiveness
Best for...
Best value
Rock Wool (Rockwool style)
Best overall
Armaflex (Self-Adhesive Elastomeric Foam)
Best for small vans
Armaflex (Self-Adhesive Elastomeric Foam)