The allure of the open road, the promise of spontaneous adventures, and the embrace of minimalist living; are the callings of van life. In the UK, where picturesque landscapes range from rugged highlands to serene coastal stretches, the trend of camper conversions has seen a significant rise.
Converting a van into a home-on-wheels allows travellers to immerse themselves in the diverse beauty of the UK – from the craggy cliffs of Cornwall to the lush valleys of the Scottish Highlands. Choosing the right van for this endeavour is crucial. In this guide, we’ll navigate through the best vans to convert to a camper, tailored to the unique terrains and needs of the British traveller.
Whether you’re a solo adventurer or a family looking to hit the road, there’s a van waiting to be your next home. Dive in to discover the best fit for your nomadic dreams.
Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Van for Conversion
When you’re looking to choose a van for your camper conversion, there are several factors you should consider, especially in the UK context:
- Budget Constraints: Vans can be pricey, and with UK vehicle taxes and insurance premiums, it’s essential to budget wisely. Ensure you’re setting aside funds not just for the van, but for the conversion itself.
- Intended Use: Are you planning weekend trips around the UK, extended European tours, or festivals? Your intended use can heavily influence the type and size of the van you should consider.
- Availability of Parts and Specialists: Not every van has parts readily available in the UK. Moreover, some vans may require specialist knowledge for conversion. Doing a little research on local UK conversion specialists can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
- Fuel Efficiency: With the rising fuel prices in the UK, it’s essential to consider fuel efficiency. A fuel-efficient van can significantly reduce your ongoing expenses.
- Driving Conditions: Many parts of the UK are characterised by narrow roads and limited parking spaces. Ensure your chosen van can easily manoeuvre these conditions.
Choosing the Best Van to Convert to a Camper
When choosing a van to convert into a camper, size matters significantly for several reasons.
Firstly, the van’s size directly impacts the level of comfort and amenities you can incorporate. A larger van can accommodate more luxurious features like a bigger bed, a spacious kitchenette, or even a compact bathroom, making extended trips more comfortable.
Conversely, a smaller van, while more manoeuvrable and fuel-efficient, might only allow for basic sleeping and cooking arrangements. Secondly, the van’s size influences where you can park and camp.
Larger vans may not fit in standard parking spaces or might be restricted from certain roads or camping areas. On the other hand, smaller vans allow for stealthier urban camping, blending in easily without drawing attention. Lastly, size plays a crucial role in driving experience and fuel consumption.
Bigger vans require more skill to navigate, especially in tight spaces, and tend to be less fuel-efficient. Hence, selecting the right size is pivotal to ensuring a balanced and enjoyable camper van experience.
Van Size Definitions
Small Vans:
Physical Dimensions: Typically, small vans have a length of around 4 to 5 metres and a height of around 1.8 to 2 metres.
Cargo Volume: They usually offer a cargo space of about 2 to 3.5 cubic metres.
Usage: These vans are often used for city deliveries due to their nimbleness and ability to easily navigate tight urban spaces. They are ideal for solo travellers or couples looking to convert a van into a compact camper.
Medium Vans:
Physical Dimensions: Medium vans generally range from 5 to 6 metres in length and have a height of around 2 to 2.5 metres.
Cargo Volume: They can offer a cargo space ranging from 6 to 9 cubic metres.
Usage: They’re often the go-to choice for professional tradespeople due to the balanced cargo space and drivability. For camper conversions, they provide a nice middle ground between space and mobility, suitable for extended tours and accommodating 2-3 people comfortably.
Large Vans:
Physical Dimensions: Large vans can exceed 6 metres in length and typically stand over 2.5 metres tall.
Cargo Volume: These vans can boast a cargo space of 10 to 17 cubic metres or even more in some extended versions.
Usage: Due to their expansive interiors, they are commonly used for bigger deliveries and moving services. In the realm of camper conversions, they are ideal for those envisioning a fully-equipped mobile home, possibly even accommodating showers, larger kitchens, and more comprehensive living areas.
It’s essential to remember that these definitions are general. Exact measurements and capacities can vary between manufacturers and specific models. Always consult the vehicle’s specifications when making a decision.
Best Small Vans to Convert to Camper
Small vans have increasingly gained traction in the camper conversion community, particularly among urban enthusiasts and those frequently navigating the UK’s diverse landscapes.
Their compact size is advantageous, making them perfect for handling the tight confines of bustling city streets, as well as the winding, narrow rural roads scattered across the UK. For solo adventurers or couples, these vans present an opportunity to design a snug yet efficient space tailored to their needs.
Moreover, their size often translates to better fuel efficiency, which can be a boon given rising fuel prices. In essence, small vans offer an intimate, convenient, and cost-effective solution for budding van lifers.
Ford Transit Connect
The Ford Transit Connect is a versatile compact van, increasingly popular for campervan conversions. Its compact size makes it ideal for those seeking a nimble, city-friendly camper, while still providing ample space for essential amenities.
Conversions often include a bed, storage, kitchenette, and sometimes even a small bathroom. The Transit Connect’s efficient fuel economy, affordability, and availability of parts make it a practical choice. Its smaller footprint, as compared to full-sized vans, attracts minimalists and solo travellers. However, its limited space might not suit everyone. Overall, it’s a reliable base vehicle for those wanting a compact, cost-effective campervan.
Volkswagen Caddy
The Volkswagen Caddy, long esteemed for its durability and versatility, has gained popularity in recent years as a prime candidate for campervan conversions. This compact van boasts an efficient use of space, making it an ideal base for those seeking a minimalist or solo travel experience. Its smaller footprint does not sacrifice reliability, ensuring adventurers have a dependable vehicle for their journeys.
When converted, the Caddy can be outfitted with essentials like a sleeping area, compact kitchenette, and storage solutions, creating a cosy, mobile living space. With good fuel efficiency and nimble manoeuvrability, the Caddy-turned-campervan proves perfect for both urban excursions and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Vauxhall Combo
The Vauxhall Combo, a compact and versatile panel van, has emerged as a popular choice for campervan conversions. Its space-efficient design allows for innovative utilisation of its interiors, while its efficient engine options offer good fuel economy, making it ideal for long journeys.
As a base vehicle, the Combo’s manageable size means it’s easier to drive and park than larger campervans, yet it still offers ample room for essential amenities once converted. Enthusiasts value the Vauxhall Combo for its balance of size, affordability, and adaptability, making it a prime candidate for those seeking a cosy, mobile escape.
Best Medium Vans to Convert to Camper
Medium-sized vans offer the ideal blend of space, comfort, and adaptability for many camper enthusiasts.
These vehicles provide noticeably more room than small vans, comfortably accommodating 2-3 people and offering added storage for travel essentials. Their versatility shines through when considering extended UK tours and the prospect of European escapades. They allow for more design flexibility, enabling van lifers to create a living space that mirrors their personal preferences.
Yet, despite their added size, medium vans maintain a degree of manoeuvrability, proving adept at navigating a mix of cityscapes and open roads. All in all, medium-sized vans strike a harmonious balance for those desiring more from their mobile abode without compromising on practicality.
VW Transporter
The VW Transporter, an iconic van synonymous with freedom and adventure, has long been a favourite for campervan conversions. Renowned for its reliability and compact yet spacious design, the Transporter offers an excellent balance between everyday drivability and the space needed for comfortable living quarters on the move.
Its adaptable interior, coupled with a robust engine, makes it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the open road. Over the years, a plethora of aftermarket parts and kits have become available, allowing enthusiasts to tailor their VW campervan to their specific needs and tastes, making every journey a unique experience.
Mercedes Vito
The Mercedes-Benz Vito is a versatile and robust van, often hailed for its blend of German engineering and functionality. Its spacious interior, coupled with a reliable drivetrain, makes it a popular choice for campervan conversions. Many enthusiasts appreciate the Vito for its driving comfort, safety features, and fuel efficiency, especially in its newer models.
As a campervan, it can be transformed to offer a cosy living space with modern amenities, suitable for both weekend getaways and long-term travels. Its balance of size and manoeuvrability ensures that travellers can navigate both city streets and remote campsites with ease.
Ford Transit Custom
The Ford Transit Custom is a versatile and popular choice for campervan conversions. Its spacious interior, robust engineering, and dependable performance make it a favourite among van lifers and travel enthusiasts. The Transit Custom offers a range of sizes and configurations, accommodating varied customization options from simple weekend getaways to full-time living.
Its efficient fuel economy, combined with widely available parts and services, ensures peace of mind during adventures. Furthermore, the Transit Custom’s modern safety features and driving comfort rival many passenger vehicles, making it a top choice for those looking to embark on the open road in a personalised home-on-wheels.
Best Large Vans to Convert to Camper
For those who dream big when it comes to van life, large vans are the quintessential choice.
These vehicles encapsulate the height of luxury in camper conversions. With their vast internal space, they’re particularly suited for those who envision a prolonged journey, or even those considering their van as their full-time residence. They offer room to integrate facilities like proper kitchens, larger beds, and even shower areas. Moreover, these vans allow individuals to experience the comforts and amenities akin to a traditional home, no matter where the road takes them.
From ample storage solutions to expansive living areas, large vans provide a canvas for creating a sophisticated and homely environment on wheels.
Mercedes Sprinter
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a popular choice for campervan conversions due to its spacious interior, reliable performance, and advanced safety features. Its robust build quality ensures longevity, while its wide variety of configurations provides flexibility for custom builds.
The Sprinter’s high roof options allow for standing room inside, a sought-after feature in campervan designs. The vehicle’s efficient diesel engines ensure long-range travel with fewer fuel stops. Additionally, Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to technology means that even older Sprinter models can often be updated with modern conveniences. Overall, the Sprinter is a premium platform for those seeking a blend of comfort and durability in their mobile home.
Volkswagen Crafter
The Volkswagen Crafter is a versatile and spacious van, increasingly popular among the campervan conversion community. Its sturdy build, efficient engine options, and vast interior make it a prime choice for those seeking a reliable base vehicle. With a range of sizes available, the Crafter can accommodate varied design layouts, from minimalist conversions to luxury mobile homes.
Its relatively straightforward bodywork is a boon for DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, the van’s modern driving aids and safety features ensure a comfortable and safe journey. Overall, the Volkswagen Crafter presents a harmonious blend of functionality and adaptability, making it a favourite for campervan enthusiasts.
Peugeot Boxer
The Peugeot Boxer, a reliable and spacious panel van, has gained popularity among campervan enthusiasts for its conversion potential. Its generous internal dimensions, robust build, and efficient engine options make it an ideal candidate for creating a mobile home-on-wheels.
With a broad wheelbase range and varying height options, the Boxer caters to diverse customization needs, from compact weekenders to fully-fledged motorhomes. Its competitive pricing, coupled with a comfortable driving experience, further adds to its appeal. As a campervan base, the Peugeot Boxer offers a blend of versatility, durability, and affordability, making dream road trips a tangible reality.
Tips for Choosing the Best Van to Convert to Camper
Selecting the right size for your camper conversion is fundamental. The size influences not only the comfort and amenities but also the practicality of travelling. Here’s a deeper dive into how the van’s size impacts your camper conversion journey:
- Navigating the UK Roads: The UK boasts a mix of wide highways and narrow, winding country lanes. A smaller van might be easier to handle on the latter, ensuring smoother journeys, especially in regions with tight roadways. But a larger van might offer more stability on motorways.
- Parking & Overnight Stops: In many UK towns and tourist spots, parking can be restrictive. Large vans might require dedicated parking spaces, whereas medium and small vans can fit into conventional parking spots. This affects where you can stop overnight and how easily you can find parking in popular areas.
- Interior Space & Design Flexibility: A larger van offers expansive space, allowing for sophisticated interiors, possibly even including a small shower or a larger kitchen. Meanwhile, smaller vans demand creative space-saving solutions, which can be both a challenge and an opportunity for unique designs.
- Fuel Efficiency & Costs: Typically, smaller vans tend to be more fuel-efficient, which can be significant given the UK’s fuel prices. However, larger vans, while consuming more fuel, provide more living space, which can be essential for those looking at prolonged or permanent van living.
- Resale Value & Versatility: While medium and large vans tailored for camper living might appeal to a specific market segment, smaller converted vans could be more versatile, often serving dual purposes and potentially having a broader resale market.
In essence, while every size has its distinct advantages, it’s crucial to anticipate your specific needs and challenges before finalising your van choice. Being foresighted will ensure a more harmonious blend of function, comfort, and practicality in your camper conversion journey.
Final Thoughts on the Best Vans to Convert to Camper
The allure of van life, particularly in the UK, is undeniable. With a diverse array of landscapes, from the rugged coastlines to the serene moors, beckoning travellers, a camper van acts as a conduit to explore these natural wonders intimately. When one thinks of the freedom it offers – the ability to wake up to a new scenic vista every day – it’s easy to see why this lifestyle has amassed such a fervent following.
Selecting the right van for this journey is pivotal. It’s not just about the physical journey, but the emotional and experiential journey you’ll embark upon. Your van isn’t merely a vehicle; it’s your home, your sanctuary, and your companion on countless adventures. It’s the vessel that will carry your memories, from the Scottish Highlands to the Cornish shores and beyond.
Moreover, personalising your camper van transforms it into a reflection of your identity. Every little detail, from the layout to the choice of upholstery, tells a story of your personal tastes and preferences.
In conclusion, while the practical aspects of choosing and converting a van are crucial, the heart of the matter lies in the experiences it will facilitate. So, as you ponder over which van to choose, think of the endless sunsets, the starlit nights, and the boundless horizons awaiting you. Embrace the road, let the UK’s vast beauty unfold before you, and cherish every moment in your personalised camper.
