SlidePods vs. SteelPods: Which is Right for Your Van?

When outfitting your campervan, choosing the right storage and kitchen solution is crucial. Two popular options in the UK market are SlidePods and SteelPods. While both offer unique features, they cater to different priorities and preferences. Let’s explore the differences to help you decide which one suits your needs best.

SlidePods: Prioritising the Kitchen Experience
SlidePods, based in the South West of the UK, are renowned for their integrated kitchen setup. Here’s what you get with a SlidePod:

• Comprehensive Kitchen: Equipped with a gas hob, sink, and shelves for tins and cutlery.
• Customisable Design: Made from laminated timber boards, available in a wide range of colours.
• Versatile Bed: Composed of four pieces of 15mm thick birch plywood, hinged together to unfold over the rear seats of vehicles like the VW Transporter.

Best For: Those seeking a ready-to-go kitchen experience in their camper van.
Drawback: Limited easily accessible storage.

SteelPods: Focusing on Secure Storage
SteelPods offer a different approach, emphasising secure and accessible storage:

• Twin Drawer System: Features a deep bottom drawer and a shallow top drawer, both fully extendable.
• Unique Bed Design: Utilises a single moving bed piece secured to sliding mechanisms, allowing the bed to slide out and lock into position.

Best For: Families, workers and campers needing easily accessible and secure storage.
Drawback: Does not come with a camping stove, though compatible options are discussed in our other articles.

Material Comparison
SlidePods: Combines a hidden metal frame, hexa birch plywood bed base, and lightweight laminated plyboard for the kitchen pod.
SteelPods: Utilises laser-cut steel, aluminium checkboard drawers, and stainless steel sliding mechanisms.

Why Choose SteelPods?
When we founded SteelPods, our goal was to balance kitchen functionality with ample storage. Our twin drawer system ensures all your camping essentials fit neatly, with the option to add a gas hob and other kitchen items in the top drawer.

Everyday Use: Ideal for tools, shopping, and more, making it a versatile choice for daily activities.
Durable Materials: Crafted from laser-cut and folded steel, welded and powder-coated for durability. The drawers are lightweight aluminium checkboard, and the bed base is 18mm hexa board.
Long Lastering: Designed to withstand varying temperatures and humidity, eliminating glue, laminate edges, and hinges which are prone to failure.

Summary
In summary, SlidePods are perfect for those prioritising an integrated kitchen, while SteelPods offer superior storage solutions without compromising durability. Depending on your camping needs and daily use, both options provide excellent features to enhance your campervan experience.