Are you ready for your next adventure, but unsure of how to choose the best van? There are a lot of converted campervans out there, but you want to set your sights high, and find the BEST one for your vanlife.
In this guide, we’ll take you through 7 easy steps to find the perfect van for your needs. Whether you are a seasoned van life enthusiast or just starting out, this guide will help you make an informed decision.
🗺️ Converted Campervans: 7 Steps to Finding your Dream Van
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Step 2: Decide on the Camper Size
Step 3: Consider Your Comfort Needs
Step 4: Evaluate the Van’s Features
Step 5: Assess the Van’s Condition
Step 6: Research the Brand and Model
Step 7: Check for Legal Compliance
🚐 Let’s hit the road…adventure awaits!
Step 1: Determine Your Budget
Before beginning your search – trawling all the converted campervans for sale – it’s important to determine your budget. How much money do you want to spend? Remember that converted campervans can range in price from a few thousand to over two hundred thousand dollars. Knowing your budget will help make your search more efficient and avoid overspending.
Remember that converted campervans require maintenance. Don’t blow all your budget on the main build – keep some back for maintenance. This is particularly important if you’ll be living vanlife full-time. You don’t want to get caught with a problem, and not immediately have the budget to fix it (AirBnBs get expensive!)
It’s also important to map out your weekly outgoings, including things like gas and food, so you can get a better sense of how much money you have to work with. Fuel efficiency is another factor to keep in mind, as it can have a big impact on your overall costs.
Setting a budget for a campervan can be a daunting task, but with a little bit of planning, you can make sure you get the most bang for your buck.
Wondering how much converted campervans cost? When it comes to finding the perfect camper van at the right price, look no further than the ‘sold’ pages on Buy or Sell Campers website. This is the best place to see how much vans are selling for and can help you get a better sense of what’s within your budget.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect campervan for your needs without breaking the bank.
Step 2: Decide on the Camper Size
The next step is to decide on the size of the camper. Will you be traveling solo, with a partner, or with a family? Do you need a lot of storage space or super spacious sleeping arrangements? Consider your needs and preferences when choosing a size. Smaller converted campervans are more maneuverable and fuel efficient, while larger vans provide more space.
Think about where and when you’ll be traveling. What will the weather be like? If you’ll mainly be based in California or Florida (the ‘Sunshine State’), then a smaller van with a greater focus on outdoor living might be just fine. However, if you’re hitting Maine, Vermont, and Alaska or the UK/Northern Europe, you may value more indoor space and home comforts.
It’s important to think about your comfort zone – both in terms of what you need to be comfortable, and what you will feel comfortable driving.
Step 3: Double Down on your Wishlist
When living in a campervan, comfort is key. Think about what amenities you need to make your journey comfortable. Do you require a shower or a toilet? You’ll want a campervan with a bathroom! Would you prefer a full kitchen or just a small two-burner stove?
Some features may be exactly as you want them, but also keep in mind that the nature of converted campervans also mean that you might be able to add some upgrades. If you can’t do this yourself, we have a whole directory of van conversion companies who can help!
Step 4: Evaluate the Van’s Features
When evaluating converted campervans, pay attention to the features they offer. Look for features like solar panels, air conditioning, heating, and backup cameras. These features can make your journey a whole lot more enjoyable and efficient. Again, a lot of these aspects can be fitted respectively, but you don’t want to overlook them.
Step 5: Assess the Van’s Condition
It’s important to assess the condition of any converted campervans before you dive straight in. Check for signs of wear and tear, rust, leaks, or damage. It’s also a good idea to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle to ensure it’s in good working order.
Depending on what country you’re in, there will be different types of information available. In the UK, you’ll want to see the MOT history. In the United States, the equivalent is the annual vehicle inspection.
In the US, the requirements for the inspection vary by state, but generally, it involves checking the vehicle’s safety features, emissions, and mechanical components. In some states, the inspection is mandatory, while in others, it is only required in certain counties or for specific types of vehicles.
It’s essential to check the inspection requirements for the state in which the vehicle is registered and ensure that the vehicle has passed the inspection before purchasing a converted campervan.
Converted Sprinter Vans, Photo credit: Cruise and Coast Custom Vans
Step 6: Research the Brand and Model
Do some research on the brands and models of converted campervans you are interested in. Read reviews and check for common issues or complaints about converted campervans of that type. Consider the reputation of the brand and the reliability of the model.
Here are some of the most popular converted campervans on the market:
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter camper van
- Ford Transit camper van
- Ram Promaster camper van
- Chevy Express/GMC Savana camper van
- Nissan NV camper van
- Dodge Grand Caravan
- Volkswagen Transporter camper van
- Toyota Sienna camper van
- Honda Odyssey camper van
- Ford E-Series camper van
These converted campervans offer a variety of different features and amenities, making them a popular choice for van life enthusiasts and adventure-seekers alike. From spacious layouts to top-notch technology, there’s a conversion van out there for just about every need and budget.
Step 7: Check for Legal Compliance
Before purchasing a campervan, make sure it complies with legal requirements. Check the vehicle’s registration, insurance, and any necessary permits. Also, be aware of any regulations regarding camping or parking in the areas you plan to visit.
💬 FAQs About Converted Campervans
What is a converted campervan?
Converted campervans are vehicles that have been modified to include living space. This can include amenities like a bed, kitchen, and bathroom.
How much do converted campervans cost?
The cost of converted campervans can vary widely depending on the size, features, and condition of the vehicle. Prices can range from a few thousand to over a hundred thousand dollars.
What size converted campervan should I choose?
The size of the campervan you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. Consider how many people will be traveling with you, and how much storage space you need.
What amenities should I look for in a campervan?
When choosing a campervan, consider what amenities are important to you. Some popular amenities include a bed, kitchen, toilet, shower, heating, and air conditioning.
Can I finance a campervan?
Yes, it’s possible to finance converted campervans just like any other vehicle. However, it’s important to consider the interest rates and monthly payments before committing to a loan.
📚Conclusion and Key Takeaways
Choosing the best converted campervan for your next adventure can be overwhelming, but following these 7 easy steps will help you make an informed decision. Determine your budget, decide on the camper size, consider your comfort needs, evaluate the van’s features, assess its condition, research the brand and model, and check for legal compliance.
By considering these factors, you’ll find the perfect campervan that meets all of your needs and fits your budget.
Key takeaways from this article include:
- Determine your budget before beginning your search for converted campervans.
- Consider the size and features you need for your travel needs.
- Evaluate the condition of the vehicle and do your research on the brand and model.
- Check for legal compliance before purchasing a campervan.
- Popular amenities to look for in converted campervans include a bed, kitchen, toilet, shower, heating, and air conditioning.
Now that you know how to choose the best converted campervan, it’s time to hit the road and start your adventure!
