Looking to expand your campervan conversion without extending the chassis? Side pods — often called sleeping flares, capsules, or space extenders — are a smart way to do exactly that. These fibreglass or composite moulds attach to the rear quarter panels of your van, adding valuable extra width for sideways sleeping.
In this guide, we’ll walk through how side pods fit into a modern campervan conversion, explore global Flarespace alternatives, and look at what’s possible in New Zealand — including local manufacturing.
What Are Side Flares or Sleeping Pods?
Side pods are outward extensions added to the rear side walls of a campervan, typically at mattress height. Their main purpose is to increase the usable interior width — usually by 100–150mm on each side — allowing adults to sleep sideways rather than lengthways.
By turning a van’s interior width from 1700mm to over 2000mm, these pods open up a range of new layout options, particularly for fixed beds, rear garages, and compact kitchens or bathrooms in a campervan conversion.
Why Install Flare Pods in Your Campervan Build?
Side pods might seem like a small exterior addition — but their impact on your campervan conversion is massive. Here’s why they’re so popular in professional and DIY van builds:
Sideways Sleeping
With flares, you can comfortably sleep across the van’s width, even if you’re tall. This frees up valuable interior space and allows for rear-entry layouts or larger galleys.
Maximised Floor Space
By rotating the bed sideways, you gain back 300–400mm of cabin length — ideal for fitting a shower, seating area, or rear garage.
More Storage Options
The extra sidewall space allows for full-width cabinetry, electrical compartments, or overhead storage above the flares.
Factory-Style Aesthetics
High-quality pods from brands like Flarespace or Vanspeed Capsules look OEM — clean lines, gelcoat finishes, and integrated shapes that match your van’s bodywork.
Versatility Across Van Models
Originally designed for Sprinters, side pods are now being made (or custom-built) for Transit, Crafter, NV350, Hiace, and others.
Vanlifer team working on adding side flares to a Mercedes Sprinter campervan in New Zealand
Global Inspiration: Popular Side Pod Brands
While side flares are still rare in New Zealand, they’re a staple in van conversions across the US, UK, and Australia. Here are some of the most well-known brands shaping the global scene:
Flarespace (USA)
Often considered the original flare pod manufacturer. Their gel-coated fibreglass pods are precision-moulded for Sprinters and are available with or without windows. Known for their premium finish and seamless fit. These are a top-tier option for those doing high-end Sprinter campervan conversions.
🔗 flarespace.com
Evomotion Design (UK)
CNC-cut fibreglass pods for Mercedes Sprinter and VW Crafter. Sold as easy-to-assemble kits ideal for DIY conversions.
Note: Evomotion does not ship to NZ, but their design is an excellent reference.
🔗 evomotiondesign.co.uk
Vale Van Co (Australia)
West Australian–made sleeping pods compatible with Sprinter, Crafter, and Transit. Finished in lightweight, high-strength fibreglass.
🔗 valevancompany.com.au
DARC Expedition (Europe)
Offers rugged composite pods designed for overland rigs. Their flares are insulated and styled for a more tactical aesthetic.
🔗 darc-exp.com
Vanspeed Shop Capsules (USA)
High-end “capsules” for 2007+ Sprinter vans. These flares have a sculptural design and integrated foam reinforcement for added insulation.
🔗 vanspeedshop.com
Summit Motorhomes (UK)
Offers bonded fibreglass sideflares with window options. Designed to blend into high-roof campervan conversions.
🔗 summitmotorhomes.co.uk
Black Rock Outfitters / Adventura Designs (USA)
These US-based brands offer affordable pods for Sprinter campervans and other van models. Several options for windowed or blank styles.
🔗 adventuradesigns.com
Emprise Global (Australia – legacy)
Previously manufactured vacuum-formed plastic flare pods for campervans. While they no longer ship internationally, their lightweight, cost-effective approach remains a smart design reference.
🔗 empriseglobal.com.au
Gold Coast Campervans (Australia)
Produces fibreglass side flares specifically for Toyota Hiace 200 Series (LWB and XLWB). A rare option for Japanese vans that increases width for sideways sleeping.
🔗 goldcoastcampervans.com.au
Can You Get Flare Pods in New Zealand?
At the time of writing, no major international flare pod brands offer direct shipping to New Zealand — and importing them privately can be costly and complex due to freight, compliance, and local certification.
However, that’s starting to change.
Vanlifer is now beginning local production of fibreglass side flares for:
- Mercedes Sprinter (2006–present)
- Ford Transit (LWB high-roof models)
These flares are designed with New Zealand-specific conditions in mind — lightweight, weatherproof, easy to install, and compliant with self-containment layouts.
Whether you’re a DIY builder or converting a van professionally, Vanlifer’s pods will soon offer a local alternative to expensive overseas options.
Interested in early access or custom development? Get in touch.
Things to Consider When Choosing Flare Pods in New Zealand
Before committing to a set of side pods, it’s important to factor in more than just the fit. Here’s what you should consider:
Vehicle Compatibility
Not all pods fit all vans. Most products are designed for:
- Mercedes Sprinter (especially LWB)
- VW Crafter (2006–2017)
- Ford Transit (LWB high roof)
For other vans like the Toyota Hiace or LDV Deliver 9, a custom solution may be required.
Installation Complexity
Installing flare pods means cutting into your van’s exterior panels. You'll need:
- Careful panel trimming
- Waterproof bonding/sealing
- Possibly LVVTA certification for structural modifications
If you're not experienced with fibreglass or bodywork, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Material Quality
- Fibreglass: Most common, sturdy, and easy to repair.
- Composite foam-core: Lightweight and well-insulated.
- Vacuum-formed plastic: Lightweight but less durable.
Look for gel-coated, UV-resistant finishes and proper insulation if you’re planning all-season use.
Window Options
Some flares are window-ready or come pre-moulded with privacy glass options. Consider whether you want:
- Natural light
- Ventilation
- Total blackout
Legal and Structural Compliance (NZ)
In New Zealand, any structural modification to a van body may require:
- LVV Certification (Low Volume Vehicle)
- WOF/COF checks
- Potential electrical/gas/equipment sign-offs for related systems
Always consult with an NZTA-recognised certifier before installing.
Should You Sleep Sideways in a Van?
Sleeping sideways in a van is a game-changer — especially if you’re tall, or trying to maximise cabin space without extending your van’s length.
Here’s a rough comparison:
|
Configuration |
Interior Bed Width |
Best For |
|
Without Flares |
~1700–1750mm |
Shorter sleepers |
|
With Side Flares |
~1900–2000mm |
Tall sleepers |
Pods enable bed widths over 1900mm, even in standard-width vans. That means:
- No need to angle your body
- Easier mattress choices
- Room for bedding, elbows, or pillows
Side flares also allow for creative floorplans — with rear garages, bike storage, or central galleys becoming more realistic.
Vanlifer’s Take
We love the concept of sleeping pods. After years of building campervans for New Zealand’s conditions, we’ve seen firsthand how a few extra centimetres of interior space can transform a build.
That’s why we’re now developing fibreglass side pods for the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit, locally made and tested for NZ roads and climates.
Whether you’re aiming for a full off-grid home or a sleek weekender, flares can make it all possible — and we’re excited to offer these soon.
Want to chat about flare options, or get on the pre-release list? Reach out here.