Buying your Van
Buying the right van is a crucial step in the campervan conversion process. Here are some key things to consider when purchasing a van for your conversion project:
Budget:
Determine your budget for both the van purchase and the conversion process. This will guide your choices and help you avoid overspending.
Van Size and Layout:
Consider the size and layout of the van. Think about how much space you need for sleeping, cooking, storage, and other activities. The van's interior should align with your conversion plans.
Mechanical Condition:
Assess the mechanical condition of the van. Look for signs of wear and tear, check the engine, transmission, brakes, and suspension. If you're not familiar with vehicle mechanics, consider bringing a knowledgeable friend or a mechanic to inspect the van.
Mileage and Maintenance History:
Check the van's mileage and review its maintenance history. Lower mileage doesn't always guarantee a better deal, but a well-maintained van is generally more reliable.
Fuel Efficiency:
Consider the fuel efficiency of the van, especially if you plan to travel long distances. A more fuel-efficient van can save you money in the long run.
Legal and Safety Compliance:
Ensure that the van complies with legal and safety standards. Check for relevant certifications and inspections, and be aware of any modifications needed to meet regulations.
Accessibility and Parking:
Think about the van's height, length, and turning radius. Ensure it can navigate the places you plan to visit, and consider the van's height for parking in garages or campsites.
Insurance Costs:
Get insurance quotes for the van before making a purchase. Insurance costs can vary based on the type of van, your location, and the intended use.
Resale Value:
Consider the resale value of the van. Some van models hold their value better than others, and this can be important if you plan to upgrade or sell the van in the future.
Conversion-Friendly Features:
Look for vans with features that facilitate conversion, such as square walls, a high roof, and rear-wheel drive. These features can make the conversion process easier.
Rust and Corrosion:
Inspect the van for signs of rust and corrosion, especially in key areas like the frame, undercarriage, and wheel wells.
Test Drive:
Always take the van for a test drive. Pay attention to how it handles, any unusual noises, and how comfortable it is for driving.
Title and Documentation:
Verify the title and documentation of the van. Ensure there are no liens or outstanding issues that could complicate the purchase.
By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose a van that suits your needs and is well-suited for conversion into a campervan.
Terminology LWB, MWB, SWB
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The terminology you may have come across whilst researching which campers, but what do they mean?
They are the abbreviations of long wheelbase, medium wheelbase and short wheelbase. The wheelbase is the distance between the front and rear wheel center points.
Long Wheelbase (LWB)
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Benefits:
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Increased Space: LWB campervans offer the most interior space, making them ideal for extended trips or for families and groups. More space allows for more amenities like larger beds, full kitchens, and even bathroom facilities.
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Storage Capacity: The extra length provides more storage options, which is useful for carrying sports equipment, bicycles, or additional camping gear.
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Comfort: With more room to move around, LWB campervans provide greater comfort, especially during bad weather when you might spend more time inside the van.
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Customization: There is more flexibility in how you can customize the interior layout to suit your needs, whether for living space, work, or hobbies.
Considerations:
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Maneuverability: LWB campervans can be harder to maneuver and park, especially in urban environments.
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Fuel Efficiency: They may have lower fuel efficiency compared to smaller vans due to their size and weight.
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Medium Wheelbase (MWB)
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Benefits:
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Balanced Size: MWB campervans strike a balance between space and maneuverability. They offer more space than SWB vans but are easier to handle than LWB vans.
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Versatility: They are versatile enough for both city driving and longer trips, making them a good all-round option for many users.
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Adequate Space: They provide sufficient space for essential amenities like a bed, kitchenette, and seating area, which is suitable for solo travelers or couples.
Considerations:
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Compromise: While they offer a good balance, they may not have as much storage or living space as LWB vans or be as easy to park as SWB vans.
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Short Wheelbase (SWB)
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Benefits:
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Maneuverability: SWB campervans are the easiest to drive and park, making them ideal for urban environments and for those who might be less comfortable driving larger vehicles.
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Fuel Efficiency: They typically have better fuel efficiency due to their smaller size and lighter weight.
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Accessibility: Their smaller size allows for greater access to remote or narrow camping spots that might be difficult for larger vans to reach.
Considerations:
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Limited Space: SWB vans offer less interior space, which can be a drawback for longer trips or for travelers who need more amenities and storage.
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Fewer Amenities: Due to space constraints, it can be challenging to fit in all the desired features like full kitchens or bathrooms.
COMMONLY CONVERTED VANS
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter:
Known for its reliability, spacious interior, and customizable options, the Sprinter is a popular choice among campervan enthusiasts.​​​
Volkswagen Crafter:
The Volkswagen Crafter is a great choice for those looking to convert a van into a campervan, providing a solid balance of space, comfort, and reliability.
Ford Transit:
The Ford Transit offers a range of sizes and configurations, making it suitable for various campervan layouts. Its availability and affordability also make it a popular choice.
Fiat Ducato / Peugeot Boxer / Citroën Jumper:
These vans share the same platform and are popular choices for campervan conversions in Europe. They offer spacious interiors, good fuel efficiency, and a wide range of conversion options.
Toyota Hiace:
Renowned for its durability and reliability, the Toyota Hiace is a favorite for campervan conversions, particularly in regions like Australia and New Zealand.
Nissan NV series:
The Nissan NV series, including the NV200 and NV300, offers a good balance of affordability and customization options, making it a popular choice for campervan conversions, especially in Europe.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6/T6.1):
The VW Transporter, particularly the T6 and T6.1 models, is beloved for its iconic design, compact size, and versatility for conversions.
​​​​​​Ram Promaster:
With its front-wheel-drive layout and wide body, the Promaster provides ample space for campervan conversions. It's praised for its ease of driving and generous cargo area.
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Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana:
These vans offer a large, boxy interior with plenty of room for customization. They are commonly used for larger campervan conversions and RVs in North America.
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