Contents
If you’re looking for a way to travel the country in style and comfort, a camper van is a great option. Camper vans are self-contained vehicles that have everything you need to live on the road, including a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom. They’re also relatively easy to drive and park, making them a great choice for people who are new to RVing.
There are many different makes and models of vans that can be converted into camper vans, so it’s important to do your research before you buy. Some of the most popular vans for camper van conversions include the Ford Transit, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, and the Ram ProMaster. These vans are all known for their reliability, fuel efficiency, and spacious interiors.
Once you’ve chosen a van, you’ll need to decide how you want to convert it into a camper van. There are many different ways to do this, so you can find a conversion that fits your budget and needs. Some people choose to build their own camper vans from scratch, while others prefer to buy a pre-built camper van. There are also many companies that specialize in camper van conversions, so you can find a professional to help you with the process.
Best Vans to Convert to Camper Van
Spacious, reliable, fuel-efficient.
- Ford Transit
- Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
- Ram ProMaster
- Chevrolet Express
- GMC Savana
- Nissan NV Cargo
- Ford E-Series
- Dodge Ram Van
- Volkswagen Transporter
- Toyota Hiace
Consider factors like size, budget, and desired amenities.
Ford Transit
The Ford Transit is a popular choice for camper van conversions due to its spacious interior, reliability, and fuel efficiency. It’s available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
The Transit’s large cargo area makes it easy to create a comfortable living space. You can install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage. The Transit is also known for its reliability and fuel efficiency, making it a great choice for long road trips.
Another advantage of the Transit is its affordability. It’s one of the most affordable vans on the market, making it a great option for budget-minded vanlifers. However, it’s important to note that the Transit is a large van, so it can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
Overall, the Ford Transit is a great choice for anyone looking to convert a van into a camper van. It’s spacious, reliable, fuel-efficient, and affordable. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure, the Transit is a great option.
Additional considerations:
- The Ford Transit is available in a variety of wheelbases and roof heights, so you can choose a model that fits your specific needs.
- The Transit is also available with a variety of features that can make your camper van more comfortable and convenient, such as air conditioning, a backup camera, and a navigation system.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is another popular choice for camper van conversions. It’s known for its luxurious interior, powerful engine, and advanced safety features. The Sprinter is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
The Sprinter’s spacious interior makes it easy to create a comfortable living space. You can install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage. The Sprinter is also known for its powerful engine and advanced safety features, making it a great choice for long road trips.
However, the Sprinter is more expensive than the Ford Transit. It’s also a larger van, so it can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, the Sprinter’s advanced features can be complex to operate, so it’s important to do your research before you buy.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is a great choice for anyone looking for a luxurious and capable camper van. It’s spacious, powerful, and safe. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure in style, the Sprinter is a great option.
Additional considerations:
- The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is available in a variety of wheelbases and roof heights, so you can choose a model that fits your specific needs.
- The Sprinter is also available with a variety of features that can make your camper van more comfortable and convenient, such as air conditioning, a backup camera, and a navigation system.
Ram ProMaster
The Ram ProMaster is a great choice for anyone looking for a spacious and affordable camper van. It’s known for its large cargo area, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. The ProMaster is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
The ProMaster’s large cargo area makes it easy to create a comfortable living space. You can install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage. The ProMaster is also known for its powerful engine and comfortable ride, making it a great choice for long road trips.
However, the ProMaster is not as fuel-efficient as the Ford Transit or the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. It’s also a larger van, so it can be more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces. Additionally, the ProMaster’s interior is not as luxurious as the Sprinter’s.
Overall, the Ram ProMaster is a great choice for anyone looking for a spacious and affordable camper van. It’s powerful, comfortable, and easy to drive. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the ProMaster is a great option.
Additional considerations:
- The Ram ProMaster is available in a variety of wheelbases and roof heights, so you can choose a model that fits your specific needs.
- The ProMaster is also available with a variety of features that can make your camper van more comfortable and convenient, such as air conditioning, a backup camera, and a navigation system.
Chevrolet Express
The Chevrolet Express is a classic American van that’s known for its durability, reliability, and affordability. It’s available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
The Express’s spacious interior makes it a great choice for camper van conversions. You can easily install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage. The Express is also known for its durability and reliability, making it a great choice for long road trips.
However, the Express is not as fuel-efficient as some of the other vans on this list. It’s also not as powerful as the Ford Transit or the Ram ProMaster. Additionally, the Express’s interior is not as luxurious as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter’s.
Overall, the Chevrolet Express is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and affordable camper van. It’s spacious, comfortable, and easy to drive. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the Express is a great option.
Additional considerations:
- The Chevrolet Express is available in a variety of wheelbases and roof heights, so you can choose a model that fits your specific needs.
- The Express is also available with a variety of features that can make your camper van more comfortable and convenient, such as air conditioning, a backup camera, and a navigation system.
GMC Savana
The GMC Savana is the twin brother of the Chevrolet Express. It’s known for its durability, reliability, and affordability. The Savana is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
The Savana’s spacious interior makes it a great choice for camper van conversions. You can easily install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage. The Savana is also known for its durability and reliability, making it a great choice for long road trips.
However, the Savana is not as fuel-efficient as some of the other vans on this list. It’s also not as powerful as the Ford Transit or the Ram ProMaster. Additionally, the Savana’s interior is not as luxurious as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter’s.
Overall, the GMC Savana is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and affordable camper van. It’s spacious, comfortable, and easy to drive. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the Savana is a great option.
Additional considerations:
- The GMC Savana is available in a variety of wheelbases and roof heights, so you can choose a model that fits your specific needs.
- The Savana is also available with a variety of features that can make your camper van more comfortable and convenient, such as air conditioning, a backup camera, and a navigation system.
Nissan NV Cargo
The Nissan NV Cargo is a great choice for anyone looking for a spacious and affordable camper van. It’s known for its large cargo area, powerful engine, and comfortable ride. The NV Cargo is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
- Spacious cargo area:
The NV Cargo has one of the largest cargo areas in its class. This makes it easy to create a comfortable living space, even if you’re traveling with a lot of gear.
- Powerful engine:
The NV Cargo is powered by a 4.0L V6 engine that produces 271 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque. This gives the NV Cargo plenty of power for hauling heavy loads and cruising down the highway.
- Comfortable ride:
The NV Cargo has a comfortable ride, even on long road trips. This is due to its independent front suspension and rear leaf spring suspension.
- Affordable:
The NV Cargo is one of the most affordable vans on this list. This makes it a great option for budget-minded vanlifers.
Overall, the Nissan NV Cargo is a great choice for anyone looking for a spacious and affordable camper van. It’s powerful, comfortable, and easy to drive. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the NV Cargo is a great option.
Ford E-Series
The Ford E-Series is a classic American van that’s known for its durability, reliability, and affordability. It’s available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
- Durability:
The Ford E-Series is known for its durability. It’s built to last, even in the most demanding conditions.
- Reliability:
The E-Series is also known for its reliability. It’s a low-maintenance van that’s unlikely to break down.
- Affordability:
The E-Series is one of the most affordable vans on this list. This makes it a great option for budget-minded vanlifers.
- Variety of configurations:
The E-Series is available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a cargo van, a passenger van, or a cutaway van, the E-Series has you covered.
Overall, the Ford E-Series is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and affordable camper van. It’s available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the E-Series is a great option.
Dodge Ram Van
The Dodge Ram Van is a classic American van that’s known for its durability, reliability, and affordability. It’s available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
- Durability:
The Dodge Ram Van is known for its durability. It’s built to last, even in the most demanding conditions.
- Reliability:
The Ram Van is also known for its reliability. It’s a low-maintenance van that’s unlikely to break down.
- Affordability:
The Ram Van is one of the most affordable vans on this list. This makes it a great option for budget-minded vanlifers.
- Variety of configurations:
The Ram Van is available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a cargo van, a passenger van, or a cutaway van, the Ram Van has you covered.
Overall, the Dodge Ram Van is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable, reliable, and affordable camper van. It’s available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the Ram Van is a great option.
Volkswagen Transporter
The Volkswagen Transporter is a popular choice for camper van conversions due to its compact size, fuel efficiency, and stylish design. It’s available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
- Compact size:
The Transporter is one of the most compact vans on this list. This makes it a great choice for people who are looking for a van that’s easy to maneuver in tight spaces.
- Fuel efficiency:
The Transporter is also known for its fuel efficiency. It gets up to 20 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway.
- Stylish design:
The Transporter has a stylish design that’s sure to turn heads wherever you go.
- Variety of configurations:
The Transporter is available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a cargo van, a passenger van, or a cutaway van, the Transporter has you covered.
Overall, the Volkswagen Transporter is a great choice for anyone looking for a compact, fuel-efficient, and stylish camper van. It’s available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure in style, the Transporter is a great option.
Toyota Hiace
The Toyota Hiace is a popular choice for camper van conversions in many parts of the world. It’s known for its reliability, durability, and spacious interior. The Hiace is available in a variety of configurations, including cargo vans, passenger vans, and cutaway vans, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs.
- Reliability:
The Toyota Hiace is known for its reliability. It’s a low-maintenance van that’s unlikely to break down.
- Durability:
The Hiace is also known for its durability. It’s built to last, even in the most demanding conditions.
- Spacious interior:
The Hiace has a spacious interior that makes it easy to create a comfortable living space. You can easily install a bed, a kitchen, and a bathroom, and still have plenty of room for storage.
- Variety of configurations:
The Hiace is available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for a cargo van, a passenger van, or a cutaway van, the Hiace has you covered.
Overall, the Toyota Hiace is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable, durable, and spacious camper van. It’s available in a variety of configurations, so you can find a model that fits your specific needs. If you’re looking for a van that can take you on your next adventure without breaking the bank, the Hiace is a great option.
Tips
Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. However, it’s important to be prepared before you go camping, especially if you’re new to it. Here are a few tips to help you have a safe and enjoyable camping trip:
Choose the right campsite:
When choosing a campsite, there are a few things you need to consider. First, think about the type of camping you want to do. If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded experience, you’ll want to choose a campsite that’s away from the main campground. If you’re looking for a more social experience, you’ll want to choose a campsite that’s closer to the other campers.
Pack the right gear:
Once you’ve chosen a campsite, you need to pack the right gear. This includes a tent, a sleeping bag, a sleeping pad, a camp stove, and cooking supplies. You’ll also need to pack food, water, and a first aid kit.
Be prepared for the weather:
The weather can change quickly when you’re camping, so it’s important to be prepared for anything. Pack clothes for all types of weather, including rain, sun, and cold. You should also pack a flashlight and a map of the area.
Leave no trace:
When you’re camping, it’s important to leave no trace of your visit. This means packing out all of your trash, and not disturbing the natural environment. You should also be careful not to build fires in unauthorized areas.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, you can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable camping trip.
Camping can be a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that your camping trip is a success.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about camping:
Question 1: What is the best way to choose a campsite?
Answer 1: When choosing a campsite, you need to consider the type of camping you want to do, the size of your group, and the amenities that are important to you. You should also check the campground’s rules and regulations before you book your site.
Question 2: What gear do I need for camping?
Answer 2: The gear you need for camping will depend on the type of camping you’re doing and the weather conditions. However, some essential gear includes a tent, a sleeping bag, a sleeping pad, a camp stove, and cooking supplies. You’ll also need to pack food, water, and a first aid kit.
Question 3: How can I stay safe while camping?
Answer 3: There are a few things you can do to stay safe while camping. First, be aware of your surroundings and be careful of wildlife. Second, keep your food and trash properly stored to avoid attracting animals. Third, always be prepared for the weather and have a plan in case of an emergency.
Question 4: How can I leave no trace when camping?
Answer 4: To leave no trace when camping, you should pack out all of your trash, and not disturb the natural environment. You should also be careful not to build fires in unauthorized areas.
Question 5: What are some good camping recipes?
Answer 5: There are many delicious recipes that you can make while camping. Some popular options include grilled burgers and hot dogs, campfire stew, and s’mores.
Question 6: How can I find a campground near me?
Answer 6: There are a few ways to find a campground near you. You can search online, or you can contact your local parks and recreation department.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about camping. If you have any other questions, be sure to do some research before you go camping.
With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that your camping trip is a success. Be sure to check out our tips section for more information on how to have a safe and enjoyable camping experience.
Conclusion
Camping is a great way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. It’s also a great way to bond with friends and family, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.
If you’re new to camping, it’s important to do some research before you go. There are many resources available online and in libraries that can help you learn about the basics of camping. You should also make sure to pack the right gear and be prepared for the weather.
With a little planning and preparation, you can make sure that your camping trip is a success. So what are you waiting for? Get out there and explore the great outdoors!