Anyone who has spent time traveling in a camper van quickly learns that storage is never just about having enough cabinets. Every unused corner, compartment, and cavity eventually becomes valuable real estate for keeping life on the road organized.
One German company has looked at one of the most overlooked areas on Volkswagen camper vans—the side entry step—and asked a simple question: Why leave it empty?
The result is OneLevel, a removable step insert designed specifically for Volkswagen Multivan, California, and Transporter models. Rather than treating the factory step as nothing more than a place to put your foot, the system transforms the hollow space beneath it into a functional storage compartment while still allowing the step to perform its original job.
But storage is only part of the story. Depending on the version, the insert also doubles as a seat, a loading platform, and an entry aid, all without permanently modifying the vehicle.
Turning dead space into useful space
Camper van owners are constantly searching for smarter ways to maximize space. Traditional storage upgrades often involve adding roof boxes, drawers, shelving systems, or cabinets, but every one of those solutions comes with trade-offs. They either consume interior room, add weight, or require permanent installation.
The OneLevel system approaches the problem differently.
Instead of adding another storage compartment somewhere inside the van, it makes use of space that already exists beneath the side entry step. Since this cavity is largely unused on compatible Volkswagen models, converting it into secure storage doesn’t take away from the living area or cargo space.
That makes it an elegant example of solving a storage problem through better use of existing design rather than adding more hardware.
More than just a storage box
At first glance, the OneLevel insert appears to be little more than a replacement step cover. In reality, it performs several different roles.
The primary function is, of course, hidden storage.
The compartment is well suited for items that camper owners frequently need but don’t necessarily want rolling around inside the cabin. Shoes, recovery equipment, hand tools, tow straps, cleaning supplies, extension cables, or camping accessories can all be tucked away beneath the step instead of occupying cabinet space.
Once closed, however, the lid serves as a sturdy entry step, preserving the original purpose of the vehicle’s side entrance.
The company also promotes it as a convenient seat and a loading aid, allowing users to sit while changing footwear or providing a stable platform when loading or unloading equipment from the vehicle.
Rather than introducing another accessory into the van, the system gives one existing area multiple functions.
Two versions for different needs
OneLevel is available in two primary versions: Essential and Premium.
Although both follow the same basic concept, they’re aimed at different types of users.
OneLevel Essential
The Essential version focuses on practicality and simplicity.
It provides approximately 6 liters (1.6 US gallons) of hidden storage while maintaining a lightweight construction. The insert combines a foam body with a coarse-textured powder-coated aluminum lid, keeping the design simple while remaining durable enough for everyday use.
Buyers can choose between a standard powder-coated finish or a version equipped with anti-slip strips for additional grip when entering or exiting the vehicle.
According to the manufacturer, the Essential model also offers better thermal insulation than many conventional storage materials, making it a more suitable place for items that benefit from reduced exposure to temperature changes.
Another advantage is its uncomplicated construction. The Essential insert consists of only three primary components—the storage tray, lid, and mounting clips—which helps simplify installation and maintenance.
Premium OneLevel
The Premium version builds upon the same concept but introduces several refinements aimed at users looking for additional durability and capacity.
Storage volume increases to approximately 10 liters (2.6 US gallons), providing noticeably more room for equipment and travel essentials.
The lid receives a scratch-resistant, slip-resistant surface treatment, while soft-close hinges improve the overall user experience by preventing the lid from slamming shut.
Perhaps the most impressive specification is its 200 kg (441 lb) load rating, allowing the insert to comfortably support the weight of adults using it as a step or seat.
The Premium version is also designed to help protect the vehicle’s original step and door seal while maintaining a factory-style appearance once installed.
Designed specifically for Volkswagen models
Unlike universal storage accessories, OneLevel has been engineered around specific Volkswagen vehicles.
Different versions are available for compatible:
- Volkswagen Multivan
- Volkswagen California Ocean
- Volkswagen California Beach
- Volkswagen Transporter
The product lineup also accounts for several factory variations, including vehicles equipped with side step lights and California models fitted with or without a shoe rack.
Because of these different configurations, buyers select the version that matches their vehicle before ordering.
This tailored approach helps the insert integrate cleanly into the factory step opening instead of appearing like an aftermarket add-on.
Installation without permanent modifications
One aspect that will likely appeal to many owners is that installation doesn’t require drilling holes into the vehicle or using adhesives.
The insert is designed as a removable upgrade, allowing owners to install it while preserving the original structure of the van.
The package includes the insert itself, mounting clips, and an installation template to assist with fitting.
For owners who lease their vehicles or simply prefer modifications that can be reversed later, this approach offers additional flexibility compared to permanently installed cabinetry or storage systems.
A cleaner, more organized camper
While 6 or 10 liters of storage may not sound like much on paper, its usefulness depends largely on where that storage is located.
Many of the small items carried inside camper vans don’t require large compartments—they simply need a dedicated place where they’re easy to access.
Instead of leaving muddy shoes near the entrance, tossing tools into cupboards, or allowing accessories to slide around under seats, the step compartment creates an organized space that remains conveniently positioned next to the door.
For people who frequently travel, camp, or work from their vans, small improvements like this can have a surprisingly noticeable impact on day-to-day usability.
Built around everyday practicality
The OneLevel system isn’t trying to reinvent camper van design.
Instead, it focuses on improving one overlooked area through thoughtful engineering.
By combining multiple functions into a single component—hidden storage, seating, an entry step, and a loading platform—it reduces the need for separate accessories while making better use of space that’s already available.
It’s also an example of a growing trend in camper accessories, where manufacturers increasingly prioritize modular, reversible upgrades over permanent modifications.
Rather than dramatically altering the vehicle, these products enhance the existing design while preserving its original functionality.
Pricing and availability
The OneLevel Essential currently starts at $188 for the standard black powder-coated version, while the anti-slip variant is priced at $195.
The Premium OneLevel lineup begins at $518 for compatible Volkswagen Transporter and California models with step lights. Depending on the specific Volkswagen configuration—including California models with or without a shoe rack—prices range up to $606.
Because multiple versions are available, buyers should confirm compatibility with their exact Volkswagen model before purchasing.
Making better use of space already there
Storage has always been one of the biggest challenges in camper van design. Every extra compartment usually means sacrificing living space or installing another bulky accessory.
OneLevel takes a different path.
Instead of adding something new to the vehicle, it unlocks space that most owners already have but rarely use. By transforming the factory side step into a discreet storage compartment that also functions as a seat, entry step, and loading aid, it demonstrates how thoughtful design can make everyday travel more convenient without making the van any larger.
Sometimes, the smartest upgrades aren’t the ones that add more—they’re the ones that make existing space work harder.
Source: OneLevel
