Read tips for choosing small camper vans
Selecting the right small camper van requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure it meets your travel needs. From understanding size limitations and interior layouts to evaluating storage solutions and mechanical reliability, making an informed decision can significantly enhance your camping experiences. This guide provides essential insights to help you navigate the compact camper van market with confidence.
Small camper vans offer the perfect balance of mobility and comfort for adventurous travelers who want to explore without the challenges of maneuvering larger RVs. Their compact size makes them ideal for both urban environments and remote locations, while still providing essential amenities for comfortable living on the road. When choosing a small camper van, several factors deserve careful consideration to ensure you select the vehicle that best matches your travel style, needs, and budget.
What size considerations matter when choosing a compact camper?
The dimensions of your camper van will significantly impact your travel experience. Most small camper vans are built on platforms like the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, or Volkswagen platforms, with lengths typically ranging from 16 to 22 feet. While longer vans offer more interior space, they can be more challenging to drive and park. Consider your typical destinations—if you plan to visit cities or navigate narrow mountain roads frequently, a shorter wheelbase might be preferable despite the space compromise.
Height is another crucial dimension to consider. Low-roof vans maintain better fuel efficiency and can access more parking structures but may not allow standing room inside. High-roof models permit most people to stand upright, significantly enhancing livability for extended trips. Some campers prefer mid-roof options as a compromise between clearance concerns and interior comfort. Always measure the exact height of any van you’re considering, including roof accessories like air conditioners or solar panels, to ensure it meets your needs.
How should you evaluate interior layouts and sleeping arrangements?
The interior layout of a small camper van determines how comfortably you’ll live during your travels. Common configurations include fixed beds (either longitudinal or transverse), convertible dinette beds, pop-tops with upper sleeping areas, and murphy bed systems. Each design offers different benefits—fixed beds provide ready-to-use sleeping space but consume valuable daytime living area, while convertible systems maximize space utilization but require daily setup and takedown.
Consider how many people will typically travel in the van. For solo travelers or couples, a two-person sleeping arrangement is sufficient, but families or those who host occasional guests might need additional sleeping capacity. Test any bed system thoroughly before purchasing—some conversions look convenient in photos but prove cumbersome in daily use. Pay special attention to bed dimensions, as many camper van beds are shorter and narrower than standard residential mattresses, which could impact comfort for taller individuals or couples who prefer more sleeping space.
What kitchen and bathroom features should you prioritize?
Even in compact camper vans, functional food preparation areas make a significant difference in travel enjoyment. Kitchen setups vary widely, from basic configurations with a single-burner stove and small sink to more elaborate systems with dual-burner cooktops, larger sinks, and small refrigerators. Consider your cooking habits—if you enjoy preparing meals from scratch, prioritize counter space and storage for utensils and ingredients. If you primarily eat simple meals or dine out, a minimal kitchen might suffice.
Bathroom facilities represent one of the biggest compromises in small camper vans. Options range from no bathroom facilities (relying on campground amenities) to portable toilets stored in cabinets, cassette toilets, composting toilets, and occasionally wet baths that combine toilet and shower functions. Some vans feature outdoor shower attachments as a space-saving solution. Your typical camping style—whether primarily at developed campgrounds with facilities or boondocking in remote areas—should guide your bathroom requirements. Remember that more elaborate bathroom systems require more maintenance, water capacity, and waste management considerations.
How important are storage solutions in small camper vans?
Practical storage represents one of the greatest challenges in compact camper design. Effective small camper vans maximize every available space with creative solutions like under-bed storage, overhead cabinets, vertical pantries, and multi-purpose furniture. When evaluating potential vans, bring along items you’ll typically travel with to test storage capacity realistically. Consider how accessible various storage areas are—frequently used items should be easily reachable without major reorganization.
Exterior storage options can significantly expand capacity without compromising interior living space. Look for features like rear cargo doors, roof racks, hitch-mounted cargo carriers, or external utility boxes. Some camper vans incorporate innovative solutions like slide-out exterior kitchens or storage compartments accessible from outside, which can be particularly valuable for storing dirty or wet equipment. Remember that weight distribution matters in smaller vehicles, so consider how your storage plan will affect handling and fuel efficiency.
What mechanical and technical specifications deserve attention?
The mechanical platform underlying your camper van determines reliability, maintenance requirements, and driving experience. Research the base vehicle’s reputation for longevity, common issues, and parts availability. Consider engine options carefully—diesel engines typically offer better fuel economy and longevity but may have higher maintenance costs, while gasoline engines often cost less initially and provide simpler maintenance in some regions. Four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive capabilities add cost but might be essential depending on your intended destinations.
Technical systems that support comfortable living include electrical setups (battery capacity, solar options, inverters), water systems (fresh, grey, and black water tanks), heating and cooling solutions, and insulation quality. These systems vary dramatically between manufacturers and custom builders. Determine your typical usage pattern—will you frequently camp without hookups (boondocking), requiring robust off-grid capabilities? Or will you primarily stay at campgrounds with electrical connections? These considerations should guide your technical specifications, as oversized systems add cost and weight while undersized ones limit your camping style.
What are the cost considerations for different small camper van options?
Small camper vans span a wide price range depending on base vehicle, conversion quality, amenities, and whether they’re factory-built or custom-converted. Understanding the market can help set realistic expectations for your purchase.
| Type of Small Camper Van | Typical Price Range | Key Features | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Conversions | $10,000-$30,000 | Customized to owner preferences, variable quality | Self-built vans on used vehicle platforms |
| Used Conversion Vans | $25,000-$60,000 | Pre-owned, often partially depreciated, varying condition | Used Pleasure-Way, Roadtrek models |
| New Factory Class B Vans | $80,000-$175,000+ | Manufacturer warranty, standardized builds, dealer support | Winnebago Solis, Airstream Interstate, Thor Sequence |
| Custom Professional Builds | $70,000-$150,000+ | High customization, premium materials, specialized features | Outside Van, Sportsmobile conversions |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
Beyond the purchase price, consider ongoing costs including insurance (typically higher for newer, more expensive vans), maintenance (older vehicles may require more frequent repairs), fuel economy (varying significantly between models and driving conditions), and campground fees. Many owners find that smaller, more efficient camper vans offer lower total cost of ownership compared to larger RVs due to reduced fuel consumption, lower maintenance costs, and more flexible camping options including stealth camping in some areas.
How should you test drive and inspect potential camper vans?
Before finalizing any camper van purchase, conduct thorough testing under realistic conditions. If possible, rent a similar model for a weekend trip to experience living in the space. During test drives, assess handling in various conditions including highway speeds, winding roads, and parking situations. Pay attention to visibility, turning radius, and how comfortable the driving position feels for extended periods.
When inspecting used camper vans, look beyond cosmetic features to evaluate structural integrity, signs of water damage, functioning of all systems (electrical, plumbing, propane, heating/cooling), and mechanical condition. Consider hiring a professional RV inspector or mechanic familiar with camper vans to provide an unbiased assessment. For new vans, research the manufacturer’s reputation for quality control and after-sale support. Remember that the most attractive interior design means little if fundamental systems aren’t reliable or the vehicle itself has mechanical issues.
Choosing a small camper van involves balancing numerous factors including size, layout, features, mechanical reliability, and budget. By carefully considering how you’ll use your van and which features matter most for your travel style, you can select a compact camper that provides years of comfortable, reliable adventures on the road.
