Which Van Is Best For A Campervan Conversion?
When looking to transform your ordinary van into a comfortable and lavish mobile home, it's crucial to understand which vans are most suitable for a campervan conversion. So, which van is best for a campervan conversion?
With numerous vans available on the market, determining the most optimal and reliable choice for a conversion can be challenging. Although the majority of vans can undergo conversion, some stand out as particularly easy to transform, such as a Fiat Ducato or Citroen Relay.
Read on to find out what vans are the best for campervan conversions and whether or not the process is worthwhile.
Which Van Is Ideal For Campervan Conversions?
Struggling to choose a van ideal for campervan conversions? While numerous vans prove suitable for campervan conversions, some stand out as notably superior to others.
Take a look at Mint Campers’ top 3 ideal vans for conversion below.
Fiat Ducato
The Fiat Ducato stands out as a choice for campervan conversions, primarily due to its expansive interior and adaptable layout, which proves ideal for van transformation projects. Its generous space allows for extensive customisation and serves as a sturdy canvas for crafting a cosy and personalised living area. The robust construction and dependable performance of the Ducato contribute to its popularity among avid campervan enthusiasts. Additionally, the spacious interior easily accommodates a width-wise bed of shorter length, ensuring both comfort and ease of driving.
Peugeot Boxer
Peugeot Boxer offers a combination of benefits such as fuel efficiency, payload capacity and a spacious interior, making it a suitable candidate for campervan conversions. The Peugeot Boxer boasts an impressive payload capacity of 1375kg, making it effortlessly capable of transporting various materials, equipment, or travel essentials. Additionally, depending on the specific model and engine configuration, the Boxer can be relatively fuel-efficient compared to some other vans in its class, which is important for long trips or extended use. Essentially, its adaptable layout and reasonable cost make it an attractive option for those looking to embark on van life without breaking the bank.
Citroen Relay
The Citroen Relay stands out for its reliable performance and optimal space utilisation. With its well-proportioned dimensions, this van provides ample room for inventive floor plans and smart storage solutions in campervan conversions. Renowned for its robustness and fuel economy, the Citroen Relay is particularly attractive to those in search of a sturdy foundation for their campervan project.
Mercedes Sprinter
The Mercedes Sprinter stands out as an excellent choice for campervan conversions due to its superior build quality and reliability. While it may come with a higher price tag compared to other vans, its performance justifies the investment.
Despite being narrower compared to others, the Sprinter's solid construction provides a sturdy foundation for customisation. However, it's worth noting that modifications to the bodywork are often required to accommodate a transverse bed layout, which may add extra effort during the conversion process.
VW Crafter
The VW Crafter stands out as an excellent choice for campervan conversions despite being pricier and narrower than some alternatives. The Crafter's robust construction ensures durability on the road, while its narrower profile allows for easier maneuverability in tight spaces, making it ideal for both urban exploration and off-grid adventures.
Things To Consider When Choosing A Van For A Campervan Conversion
Once you've selected the ideal van model for your needs, it's essential to consider the following factors:
Your budget. Consider how much you are willing to spend, and how much you actually have to pay for a campervan conversion.
Size and height. Thoroughly evaluate your van. Is it the correct size and height for a conversion? Do you need to look at investing in a different van?
Maintenance. Considering whether or not you are willing to keep up with the maintenance after your campervan conversion, if you think you will need more dedicated, it might not be for you.
The mileage. A good campervan will have between 30,000 - 50,000 miles, so ensure when looking for a van to convert, it has a similar number of miles.
Make sure you see the van in person before making a purchase. Take a test drive, and if the seller denies this, consider it a red flag, prompting you to continue with your search.
Which Vans Are The Most Difficult For A Campervan Conversion?
While not inherently impossible or excessively challenging, converting the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter into a campervan can be considered somewhat awkward. Initially, the van's elevated roof offers generous interior space, yet managing insulation and working with the heightened dimensions may prove inconvenient, demanding extra effort and materials. Additionally, the Sprinter's weight has implications for fuel efficiency, necessitating careful thought when incorporating interior features and amenities.
Is It Worth Converting A Van Into A Campervan?
Yes, transforming a van into a campervan is a valuable investment. Despite the initial cost, these conversions hold their value and provide a comfortable driving experience, bringing the warmth of home wherever your journey takes you.
Is It Legal to Convert a Van Into a Campervan?
Yes, it is legal to convert a van into a campervan. After the conversion process, you can choose to re-register your van as a "motor caravan" with the DVLA, but this isn't obligatory. Even if your vehicle retains its legal classification as a van, it's still permissible for use as a campervan, provided you have the appropriate insurance coverage.
Campervan Conversions with Mint Campers
At Mint Campers, our enthusiasm for these vans runs deep. The 'Mint' journey commences with an inclusive and meticulous design phase, followed by a skilled and thorough construction process. Drawing from extensive experience in spending considerable time within vans, we understand the durability of materials over time. This understanding motivates us to uphold nothing short of excellent quality in our creations.
If you think Mint Campers is the right company for you, get in touch today by giving us a call on 07496624986. Alternatively, fill out our contact form and a member of our team will be in touch. However, if you are still undecided, check out our portfolio to see what our business can do for you.
