From Dream to Reality – Choose the Perfect Campervan for Your Vanlife Adventure – Complete Guide

1. _What’s Your Purpose for a Campervan?

Before diving headfirst into the vanlife world, let’s talk about your purpose. Are you looking for spontaneous weekends in the woods or a six-month road trip through Europe? Your goals will determine everything—from the size of the vehicle to the number of solar panels you’ll need on the roof.

Think about your travel style and habits:

• Are you planning to stay off-grid for extended periods?

• Will you be traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family?

• Do you need extra storage for bikes, surfboards, or other gear?
  

By identifying your purpose, you’ll narrow down your options and avoid getting overwhelmed by the endless choices.

2. _What Type of Vehicle is Best for You?

Are you a luxury camper who wants all the comforts of home, or more of a minimalist who’s happy with just the essentials? Let’s navigate the jungle of van models to find the one that will be your ultimate travel companion.

Some key factors to consider:

• Size and layout: Larger vans like the Mercedes Sprinter offer ample space for full kitchens and bathrooms, while smaller options like the VW Transporter are easier to park and more fuel-efficient.

• Driving habits: If you plan to explore winding mountain roads or urban areas, a compact van might be the better choice.

• Customization potential: Some vans are easier to convert than others, depending on their design and interior space.

We’ll break down the pros and cons of popular van models in the next sections of this guide.

3._Tips and Tricks for Buying a Campervan

Buying a campervan is like choosing your travel partner—you’ve got to be smart about it! Here are a few quick tips to help you avoid common pitfalls and find a gem that will cruise the roads without a hitch:

• Research the vehicle’s history: Check the service records, mileage, and any past repairs.

• Look for rust and leaks: These can be costly to fix and might indicate deeper issues.

• Take a test drive: Pay attention to how it handles, especially if you’re new to driving larger vehicles.

• Factor in the conversion costs: If you’re planning to build it out yourself, make sure to leave room in your budget for the materials and tools you’ll need.
  

A well-informed buyer is a happy traveler. These tips will set you up for success from the start!

4. Channel Your Inner Car Dealer

Get ready to charm the seller, make savvy decisions, and perhaps even land a better deal than you thought possible. Here’s how to go from a first-time buyer to a campervan guru:

• Do your homework: Compare prices for similar models online to know what a fair price looks like.

• Negotiate with confidence: Point out any flaws or needed repairs to justify a lower price.

• Consider pre-purchase inspections: Hiring a mechanic to check the van before buying can save you from unpleasant surprises.
  

With these steps, you’ll not only snag a great deal but also gain the skills to make informed decisions every time you step onto the campervan market.

Find Your Dream Vehicle for the Ultimate Vanlife Adventure

The first step in building a campervan is choosing the right van to buy! Converting a van requires time and money, so it’s crucial to make the right choice from the start. Vans come in all shapes and sizes: tall, small, wide, narrow, flashy, discreet, functional, clunky, cheap, and expensive. Finding the perfect one for you is both exciting and fun. So, let’s explore which van will be the best fit for your camper conversion!

Before You Begin: Legal and Insurance Considerations

Before diving into your van research, there are some important administrative factors to address. First and foremost, check the legal and insurance requirements in your country. For instance, in some European countries, the interior height of the van must be at least 180 cm, or certain insurance companies may not cover converted school buses. Additionally, some countries impose tax regulations on vans weighing over 3.5 tons.

In Sweden, for example, there are no strict size requirements, but the van must be reclassified into the correct vehicle category for its intended use. Specific conversion regulations apply to its design and functionality. (Read more here.)

Imagine the disappointment of buying a van only to discover that you can’t convert it! To avoid this, make sure to:

1. Research the laws, rules, and requirements for van conversions in your country.

2. Contact your insurance provider. Refer to a similar converted van model to understand the costs and what is covered in case of accidents or theft. Don’t hesitate to call if you’re unsure.
   

With these basics in order, you can confidently start your hunt for the perfect campervan!

Top Tips for Buying a Campervan: Avoid Mistakes & Find the Best Fit

City Slicker or Country Explorer?

Where Will Your Next Adventure Take You?

Stealth Mode – Fly Under the Radar in Urban Areas

If you’ll be spending a lot of time in cities—perhaps even working from an office—consider a “stealth mode” van. For our first European road trip, we chose a Renault Trafic with a discreet look, perfect for blending into urban areas. A low-profile van reduces the likelihood of break-ins and makes it easier to park overnight without drawing attention from locals or authorities. However, the downside is that it might be mistaken for a work van filled with tools—something we unfortunately experienced.

Full-Time Vanlife

Planning to live in your van full-time? You’ll want to think seriously about interior height. Being able to stand upright improves posture and makes vanlife much more comfortable. If possible, opt for a van with a higher roof.

Traveling as a Couple?

Two souls, one thought. Are you a solo traveler or hitting the road with someone else? It’s important to consider bed width and length. The last thing you want is to sleep curled up after a fun night out. A longer and wider van will ensure a much more comfortable night’s rest.

Weather Considerations

Traveling to cold or rainy places means you’ll likely spend a lot of time inside your van. In such cases, comfort is key. Make sure there’s enough space to move around and stand upright. For extremely cold destinations, insulation is essential, especially for the floor and roof, though it may reduce interior height. Keep this in mind and consider a van with extra height.

Create Your Requirements Checklist

We suggest writing down all your must-haves for the conversion. What do you absolutely need, and what can you live without? How much space will everything take up? Having a clear picture of your priorities will help you choose the right type of van for your conversion. You can use a “Van Conversion Map” as a starting point for your checklist.

In Part 2, we’ll dive deeper, exploring everything you need to know to find the campervan that matches your needs and desires. Stay tuned!

Part 2:
Finding the Right Van for Your Camper Conversion – Practical Tips and Advice