Are you ready to embark on an adventure and create your dream campervan? Choosing the right van as the base for your conversion is a crucial step in bringing your vision to life. From size and layout to mechanical considerations, every detail matters. Let's dive into the essential factors to consider when selecting the perfect van for your campervan conversion.
Understanding Your Needs
Before browsing through van options, take a moment to consider your needs and preferences. Are you looking for a spacious van to accommodate a family, or do you prefer a compact size for easier manoeuvrability? Understanding how you plan to use your campervan will help narrow down your options and ensure that the van aligns with your lifestyle and travel plans.
Considerations to keep in mind:
Number of individuals traveling/sleeping .
Duration of the trips: whether its weekend getaways, week traveling place to place, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or something in between.
Where you are storing the van day to day.
Requirement like a shower and toilet facilities
Visiting a campsite with hook-up or going off grid with solar.
An awning or indoor space in case of inclement weather
Cooking arrangements: from cooking elaborate meals to simply needing a place to boil water for your morning coffee.
What are you wanting to take with you: Surfboards, SUP, mountain bikes.
All of these things are important however it's what's important to you. As a family of 3 and a dog the important thing for us are space to cook and sit together as a family. A loo in also at the top of the list as we don't always stay at campsites. As a family we love to paddle board being able to storage them in the van is priority.
Size Matters
One of the first decisions to make is selecting the right size of the van. Larger vans offer more living space and storage capacity, ideal for extended trips or full-time van life. On the other hand, smaller vans are easier to drive and park, making them a practical choice for weekend getaways or solo adventures. Consider your space requirements and comfort preferences when choosing between different van sizes.
Here a wild River Campers we have worked on most vans even a Landover 101 ambulance.
Large Vans
Peugeot Boxes, Fiat Ducato and one of our favourites is the Citroen Relay van, they come in different heights and lengths, their boxy shape lends its self perfectly for a campervan conversion. The VW Crafter is another large van however as the van is slimmer at the back it can be a disadvantage with some layouts.
Medium Vans
Citroen Relay L1 H1
VW Transporter
Vauxhall Vivaro
Ford Transit
Medium vans are great for couples or family's that holiday at campsites, you have the advantage of being able to park in more places.
Small Vans
VW Caddy
Citroen Berlingo
Fiat Doblo
Great for solo travellers and can still be equipped with everything you might need.
If you are are still unsure what size van you need and what will work for you why not hire a campervan, it will give you a better idea for what you need.
Mechanical Condition
While the aesthetics of a van are essential, its mechanical condition is equally important. Opting for a van with a solid mechanical foundation will save you time and money on repairs in the long run. Prioritize vans that have been well-maintained, with a service history that you can review. A reliable engine and transmission are key components to ensure a smooth and trouble-free travel experience.
Test Drive and Inspection
Before making a final decision, schedule a test drive and comprehensive inspection of the van you are considering. Pay attention to driving comfort, engine performance, and overall condition during the test drive. A professional inspection can reveal any underlying issues that may not be immediately apparent. Taking the time to assess the van first hand will give you confidence in your purchase decision. If you are not mechanic minded consider taking a family member or friend who is or get a per-purchase inspection. Places like The AA or RAC can do this for about £200.
Layout and Design
Once the van has been purchased the next step is the layout of your campervan this will greatly impact your day-to-day comfort and convenience. Consider factors such as sleeping arrangements, kitchen setup, and bathroom facilities when evaluating different van layouts. Do you prefer a fixed bed or a convertible seating area? Would you prioritize a fully equipped kitchen or are you content with a minimalist setup? Tailoring the van's design to align with your preferences will enhance your overall camping experience. At Wild River Campers we can help with layout and design.
Budget Considerations
Setting a realistic budget for your campervan conversion is essential to avoid overspending. In addition to the initial cost of purchasing the van, factor in expenses for thing like solar power, water heat and windows, it not just about having a instagrammable campervan it needs to usable too. Remember, a well-planned conversion can be both cost-effective and functional. Here a Wild River Campers we will work with you to get the best with your budget.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right van for your campervan conversion is an exciting step towards creating your personal oasis on wheels. By carefully considering factors such as size, mechanical condition, layout, and budget, you can select a van that aligns with your camping goals and lifestyle. Remember, the journey to converting your van into a campervan is as rewarding as the destination itself. Happy travels and happy camping!
Embarking on a campervan conversion journey requires careful consideration and planning. Here at Wild River Campers we are here to help you start your adventure to transform a simple van into your ultimate mobile sanctuary.
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