When it comes to building or upgrading a camper van, every little detail matters — from the roof rack to the lighting to the flooring under your feet. But one feature that often sparks debate among van owners is the side step.
I would have to say that Side Steps are a feature that I would not install on my next van. If you plan on adding this feature I would highly recommend doing a lift. The reduction of ground clearance is significant. Whether you’re climbing in after a long day on the trail or just reaching for your morning coffee, side steps can make life on the road a little easier — but they’re not without a few trade-offs. Here’s a look at the benefits and downsides of adding side steps to your camper van so you can decide if they’re worth it for your build or rental fleet.
The Benefits of Side Steps
1. Easier Access
The most obvious benefit: side steps make getting in and out of your van much easier — especially for kids, pets, or anyone shorter than 6 feet tall. Many camper vans, especially 4×4 or lifted models, sit high off the ground. Without a step, climbing in can feel like a mini workout every time you stop for gas or set up camp.
A sturdy side step provides a safe and convenient foothold, reducing strain on your knees and back — a real perk after a long day of hiking, surfing, or driving.
2. Added Safety
Wet boots, sandy feet, or a bit of morning dew can make van floors slippery. Side steps give you a stable, non-slip platform for entering and exiting, lowering the risk of slips and falls.
For families or renters, this added safety is a big plus. Many San Diego camper van rental companies include side steps on their builds for this reason alone — it’s a small feature that makes a big difference in comfort and confidence.
3. Protects Your Van’s Body Panels
Beyond function, side steps act as a protective buffer along the lower edge of your van. When parked off-road or near rocky terrain, steps can help shield your paint and doors from flying gravel, mud, and trail debris.
Some models even double as rock sliders, giving extra protection when navigating uneven terrain — ideal for anyone exploring remote campsites or rough backroads.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Let’s face it — a well-designed side step just looks good. It gives your van a more rugged, finished appearance and can complement the rest of your exterior accessories like bumpers, flares, and wheels.
For brands or rental fleets, matching aluminum or powder-coated steps add a professional, adventure-ready look that guests love.
The Downsides of Side Steps
1. Reduced Ground Clearance
If you’re into serious off-roading, ground clearance is everything. Side steps, particularly fixed ones, can hang a few inches below the van’s frame, making them vulnerable to scraping on rocks or steep inclines.
For high-clearance builds or 4×4 rigs designed for remote terrain, retractable or modular steps are often a better choice — giving you the convenience without sacrificing capability.
2. Added Weight
Even lightweight aluminum steps add some weight to your van. While a few extra pounds might not sound like much, every bit counts when it comes to fuel efficiency and payload. For those keeping builds ultra-minimalist or within tight weight limits, this is something to consider.
3. More Maintenance
Depending on the style, side steps can collect dirt, sand, and road grime. Power-operated or retractable models also require occasional maintenance to keep the mechanisms running smoothly.
If you travel frequently on salty or muddy roads, you’ll want to rinse and inspect your steps regularly to prevent corrosion or damage.
Final Thoughts: Are Side Steps Worth It?
For some camper van owners, side steps are a worthwhile upgrade — especially if your van sees a mix of city driving and off-grid adventure. The added safety, accessibility, and visual appeal far outweigh the minor downsides for everyday use.
However, if your van is built for hardcore off-roading or you’re trying to minimize weight, you might want to skip fixed steps or opt for retractable versions that tuck away when not in use.
At the end of the day, it comes down to how (and where) you travel. For most adventurers exploring California’s coastlines, deserts, and mountain passes, side steps are one of those small features that make a big difference in comfort and confidence on the road but I’m not sure they are worth it.
Check out the following Blog posts for some additional inspiration:
Eastern Sierras via Highway 395
Highway 1 to Big Sur including Santa Barbara + San Simeon
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