Builder of the Month - Papago Vans

Builder of the Month - Papago Vans

Papago Vans believes that you should be able to design your campervan exactly how you want it. They strive to provide unique custom layouts for each client, to truly put the "custom" in customer.

Let's learn about Papago Vans from their President & Owner, Jasim Wilcot

The three owners, pictured left to right: Jasim, Jonh & Edword

Where are you from, and what is special about the area?

I grew up in City, AZ, right down the street from our headquarters. The area has its own rugged beauty, from endless trails to iconic desert landscapes. Growing up here, you develop a natural respect for the outdoors and an appreciation for a lifestyle that values open space and resilience. It’s a place that influences everything we do, including the way we approach our builds.

Mesa and the surrounding Sonoran Desert provide a real-world testing ground for van durability, from high temperatures to rough off-road conditions. This has inspired Papago Vans to focus on heat-resistant materials, durable flooring, and reinforced cabinetry, ensuring each van is ready for any adventure.

When did you first realize that you wanted to become a camper van builder?

It happened after I went to an Overland Expo. Seeing the sheer range of van builds and meeting people who were living their lives out of a van showed me just how far you can take this. I left knowing I wanted to help people create something functional and durable so they could enjoy that same freedom.

This philosophy now drives every aspect of Papago Vans, from custom layouts to long-lasting finishes, ensuring each vehicle is not just visually appealing but built to handle years of travel.

What sets you apart from other camper van builders?

We don’t take shortcuts. Every single build uses quality materials, and we prioritize durability above all else. We’re not just here to push vans out the door; we’re here to make something that stands up to years of use. Our focus is on making sure the final product is something our customers can rely on for the long haul, whether it’s for weekend trips or full-time living.

Papago Vans also distinguishes itself with:

• Fully customized layouts tailored to each client’s lifestyle and travel goals.
• Premium material selection, including reinforced flooring, marine-grade plywood, and high-durability upholstery.
• Integration-ready upgrades, like Vanspeed capsules and side steps for increased comfort and functionality.
• Efficient workflow and build planning, allowing multiple custom projects to progress simultaneously without sacrificing quality.

An impressive shop yields impressive builds, making each van as functional and stylish as possible.

What Vanspeed products do you like best, and why?

The Pop-Outs aka Capsules are the standout. They add space where it counts, which makes daily life in the van feel a bit less cramped. They’re straightforward to install, integrate well with different layouts, and get the job done without fuss.

Papago Vans also uses:

• Side Steps for Sprinter vans: Sleek, functional, and perfect for roof access or loading gear.
• Sleeping capsules for family layouts: Maximize sleeping space without sacrificing interior flow.
• Modular storage solutions: Custom cabinets that can be moved or adjusted as needed.
• Solar integration kits: Allow off-grid capability with minimal footprint.

These features enhance livability, organization, and comfort, especially for clients who use their vans for long-term travel or remote adventures.

What advice would you like to share with other builders and/or people embarking on a DIY project?

Keep it simple, and don’t rush. Building a van isn’t a weekend project if you’re doing it right. Put in the time to do things well, invest in solid materials, and reach out if you don’t know something—there’s no shortage of people willing to share what they know. If you’re going to cut costs somewhere, just make sure it’s not in the structure or safety areas. It’ll come back to bite you if you do.

Additional tips from Papago Vans include:

• Test layouts with temporary mockups before final construction.
• Prioritize safety and structural integrity over aesthetic-only upgrades.
• Incorporate flexibility in storage and sleeping arrangements for real-world usability.
• Use builder-tested products like Vanspeed capsules for space efficiency and durability.

How did you come up with your company name?

We chose Papago to recognize the history and culture of Arizona. It’s the name historically used for the Tohono O'odham Nation, whose roots are here. The name “Papago” shows up on mountains, parks, and highways all over the region, and for us, it represents a connection to where we are. It’s a reminder to stay grounded in the quality of work we put out, respecting where we come from even as we create something that allows people to explore beyond it.

Please share anything else you’d like to add… a joke, a funny van name, a ritual around your shop, etc.

Every time one of our team members gets promoted, they get pied (only if they want to). It’s a bit of light-hearted payback and a tradition that everyone looks forward to. It’s a nod to the camaraderie and humor that Ian and I picked up in the Army, where there’s a strong emphasis on celebrating success with a little friendly ribbing. The team gets a kick out of it, and it’s a solid reminder that we’re in this together, working hard but not taking ourselves too seriously.

Additional Papago Vans features that make their builds unique and fully functional:

• Reinforced cargo floors for heavy gear or outdoor equipment.
• Upgraded suspension and tie-down points for off-road travel.
• Modular kitchen units with fold-out tables and appliances.
• Energy-efficient LED lighting and USB charging ports throughout.
• Climate-control insulation packages for all-season comfort.

Why Papago Vans Aligns with The Buildout Shop

At The Buildout Shop, we showcase and supply parts that professional builders like Papago Vans use in real-world builds. Products are tested for durability, ease of installation, and compatibility, including Vanspeed capsules, side steps, and modular storage.

Builders like Papago Vans inspire DIYers and professional builders alike, showing how high-quality materials, smart layouts, and functional upgrades can transform a van into a reliable adventure-ready home.

Explore Papago Vans-Inspired Products

• Vanspeed Pop-Out Capsules
• Side Steps for Sprinter vans
• Modular interior cabinets and drawers
• Solar power integration kits
• Reinforced flooring and off-road tie-down systems

Every product is curated to help builders maximize space, comfort, and usability while keeping every van custom and adventure-ready.

See More at The Buildout Shop

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