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15 Best Vans For Living In Full-Time

Van conversion guide.

last updated: Dec 8, 2022

Are you planning on living in a van full time?

Congratulations! That is one of the biggest and most rewarding decisions you could make. 

The next step after deciding to live in a van full-time, is to choose that van! 

You’ll want to do lots of research to be sure that you choose the right van- it is going to be your new home after all. 

We’ve gone ahead and taken the guesswork out of the equation for you, and have created a list of the best vans for living full time in! 

In this guide, we cover the best vans for living full time in, as well as 15 examples of conversions of those vans so you can see exactly how to turn that specific van into your new home on wheels.

Let’s jump right in!

What to Consider when Choosing a Van for Full-Time Van Life

Size of the van.

The size of your van is perhaps the most important factor to consider when choosing a van to live full-time in.

While not being able to stand up in a van for a few days or weeks at a time may be manageable, odds are, this may become old and frustrating to deal with while living full-time in a van.

To combat this, you’ll want to choose a van that is tall enough for you to stand up in- even once it is fully insulated, and floors and ceilings are added. 

Reliability of the Van

If you’re going to be living in a van full-time, you probably don’t want to be subjected to mishaps like breakdowns and engine problems. 

Of course these things do happen. However,  with a high-quality van, they will happen less frequently. 

One of the best ways to ensure you are purchasing a high-quality, reliable van, is to have a pre-purchase inspection done on your van.

15 Best Vans For Full-Time Van Life

1. mercedes sprinter van.

• Roof height: 170cm low roof, 200cm high roof 
• Wheelbase: 
• Length: 325cm SWB, 432cm LWB
• Width: 178cm

Off-Road Capability : Yes!

The Sprinter Van is offered with either rear 2wd or 4wd for off-roading.

Prices: $27,000 used/ $35,000 new SWB/ $50,000+ LWB with upgrades

Pros of the Mercedes Sprinter Van for Full Time Van Life

• They are incredibly durable. 

It is not uncommon for Sprinter Vans to run past 300,000 miles, and so with a Sprinter Van, you can rest assured that your home on wheels will remain running for quite some time.

• They are popular for full-time van life.

Because so many people live in Sprinter Vans full-time, there is so much information out there on how to convert a Sprinter Van!

Cons of the Mercedes Sprinter Van for Full Time Van Life

• They are expensive.

The Sprinter Van name and quality certainly come with a hefty price tag.

• They can be difficult to find a mechanic for. 

Oftentimes, mechanics will refer Sprinter Vans to the dealer. This is less than ideal for full-time van lifers, as there may not be a dealer in your area, and dealerships are very expensive.

This Sprinter Van has a 144 wheelbase with an extra-high roof, and has housed its owners on the road for 5 whole years!

This Sprinter Van Conversion has plenty of space for a full kitchen with an induction stove, fridge, large sink, and even a toaster oven!

There is also plenty of room for a fixed bed.

With the help of swivels, the front seats twist around to serve as a living room/seating area. 

Even in a MWB, this Sprinter Van is suitable for full-time van life.

Full video → Years of Full-time Van Life

2. Citroen Relay/ Peugeot Boxer/Fiat Ducato

• Roof Height: 166cm low roof, 193cm medium roof, or 217cm high roof
• Length:267cm SWB, 312cmLWB, and 370cm LWB extended
• Width: 187cm

Off-Roading Capability: Yes.

Prices: $22,000 (used) / $33,000 (SWD)/ $50,000 (LWB)

**The Citroen Relay, Peugeot Boxer, and Fiat Ducato are all essentially the same van based on the Ducato Chassis, and they are all excellent vans for living in full-time. 

Pros of the for Citroen Relay/ Peugeot Boxer/ Fiat Ducato for Full Time Van Life

• With factors like roll-over mitigation and enhanced steering control, this is one of the safest vans on the market!
• These vans come at a more affordable price point than other vans on the market.
• These vans get fantastic gas mileage, which will save you money in the long run while living in the van!
• They are very wide. This is great because you can fit your bed widthwise in the van to save space.

Cons of the Citroen Relay/ Peugeot Boxer/ Fiat Ducato for Full Time Van Life

• These vans don’t have much storage located in the cab.
• They aren’t as mechanically reliable as some other vans.

Example 

This incredible van conversion features a Peugeot Boxer designed for full-time van life!

This is one of the most unique and creative van conversions we’ve ever seen.

In addition to a fully-stocked kitchen with a sink, stove, and refrigerator, this van’s kitchen also has an espresso maker!

This van also has a double fixed bed, full shower with toilet, and spacious working area with an additional two seatbelted seats.

Plus, this van is more than equipped to take guests along- there is a second double bed that can be converted in the van with an ingenious slat system.

The Peugeot Boxer is clearly a great van for living in full-time, just look at this conversion!

Full video → Winter Van Tour

3. Ram Promaster

• Roof Height: 165cm low roof, 190cm high roof
• Length: 345cm SWB, 403cm LWB
• Width: 190cm

Off-Roading Capability:  No

Prices: $9,000used/$27,000 SWB/$45,000 LWB with upgrades

Pros of the Ram Promaster for Full Time Van Life

• The Ram Promaster is the widest van on the market.
• Promasters are frequently used as cargo vans, so this is a great van option for stealth camping.
• The Promaster is fuel efficient (20mpg), so you’ll save money while living on the road!

Cons of the Ram Promaster for Full Time Van Life

• The Ram Promaster doesn’t have as many safety features as its competitors. 
• The lack of a 4wd option limits where you can take this van.

While not all of us are professional chefs, we can still all be impressed by this utterly astounding Ram Promaster van conversion.

The kitchen in this van conversion is breathtaking. 

It has an impressive 21-inch Furrion oven , stovetop, massive fridge, and a deep sink.

On top of all those features, it is also complete with a beautiful blue tile backsplash.

As if the kitchen wasn’t enough, the bathroom in this campervan is remarkable. 

It is complete with a lovely white tile full shower, complete with hot water and a Nature’s Head Composting Toilet .

There is also room for a large double bed in addition to a fixed bench seat area. 

With conversions like this possible, the Ram Promaster is easily one of the best vans to live out of!

Full video → Camper Designed by a Professional Chef

4. Ford Transit

• Roof Height: 182cm medium roof, 205cm high roof
• Length: 330cm SWB, 375cm LWB
• Width: 139cm

Prices: $20,000 used/$25,000 SWB/$42,000 LWB with upgrades

Pros of the Ford Transit for Full Time Van Life

• The Ford Transit has loads of safety features, including collision warnings and pre-collision assist.
• The Ford Transit is very easy to drive.
• Repair costs are incredibly low.
• The Ford Transit has a spacious interior.
• Used Ford Transits can be found at very affordable price points.

Cons of the Ford Transit for Full Time Van Life

• At 14-17mpg, Ford Transits do not get the best gas mileage.
• While repair costs are low, Ford Transits aren’t as mechanically reliable as other vans on the market.

This Ford Transit is proof that you can have a wonderful van to live in full-time- without breaking the bank!

The design in this Ford Transit is simple yet functional and aesthetic. The kitchen is simple, with a single burner and sink.

There is a stealthy sliding hatch for access to the cab, and plenty of overhead storage.

The highlight of this van conversion is the massive workspace! 

This setup has enough space for four people to easily work remotely with ease, and there are charging wall outlets placed accordingly around the table.

When not in use as a workspace, the table and seats convert down into a double bed.

Overall, the van and build of this Ford Transit Van Conversion cost under $14,000, and I’d say it turned out pretty well!

Full video → Ezra’s Van Conversion

5. VW Crafter

• Roof Height: 167cm Low roof, 193cm high roof, 218cm extra high roof
• Length: 365cm medium wheelbase, 432cm long wheelbase, 470 cm long extended wheelbase
• Width: 135cm

Prices: $25,000 used/$49,000SWB new/$85,000 extended LWB with upgrades

Pros of the VW Crafter for Full Time Van Life

• The VW Crafter is the largest campervan you can buy.
• The cab of the Crafter is equipped with plenty of storage.
• The interior of the VW Crafter is very customizable.
• They are very reliable vehicles.

Cons of the VW Crafter for Full Time Van Life

• The VW Crafter is the most expensive campervan on the market.

This lovely VW Crafter Van Conversion is the perfect example of a Crafter in action for full-time van life.

The cab is closed off to the back of the van, but there is still a window built-in for access between the two spaces.

This setup has plenty of space, and even fits a large L-shaped couch! Having a couch in the van is truly quite the luxury.

At night, the couch simply converts into a king-sized bed utilizing a clever slat system- one of our favorite campervan bed ideas!

Full video → Land Yacht! Incredible VW Van Conversion

6. Renault Master

• Roof Height: 179cm, 208cm tall roof
• Length: 318cm SWB, 368 LWB
• Width: 138 cm

Prices: $15,000 used / $44,000 SWB / $62,000 LWB with upgrades

Pros of the Renault Master for Full Time Van Life

• The Renault Master has a powerful engine.
• It is possible to find very affordable used Renault Masters.
• The interior of the Renault Master is very suitable for van conversion.
• The Renault Master can handle a very heavy payload, so this van can certainly carry the weight of your full-time van conversion.

Cons of the for Full Time Van Life

• This van needs frequent mechanical work done to keep it running smoothly.

This Renault Master campervan Conversion is truly mind-boggling.

Not only does it have a stunningly decorated interior, but it also has plenty of space for an incredible campervan layout!

The kitchen in this campervan is quite large and has a huge sink, oven, stove, and refrigerator.

This campervan’s living room/bedroom is a true masterpiece.

They managed to fit a massive L-shaped couch, so there is plenty of space for lounging and entertaining.

This area is also equipped with a Lagun Swivel Table , so the space can also serve as a work area. 

Not to mention the TV setup- Gaming/movie nights must be incredible in this van!

Full video → Inspirational Campervan Conversion

7. International School Bus

• Roof Height: 182 cm standard, 198 cm high roof
• Dimensions:
• Total Length: 7.6 meters mini, 10.6 meters medium, 13.7 meters standard
• Total Width: 1.82 meters mini, 1.82 meters medium, 2.43 meters standard

Off-Roading Capability: No.

Prices: $7,500 used / $65,000 new / $100,000+ new with upgrades

Pros of the International School bus for Full Time Van Life

• Size! The International School bus has so much room that your opportunities for conversion are endless.
• Used buses can be found at a very affordable price point.
• Because these buses were designed to safely transport children, they are incredibly safe.

Cons of the International School Bus for Full Time Van Life

• Parking, driving, and maneuvering a school bus will prove difficult.
• This is not the vehicle to go for if you want to participate in any sort of stealth camping.
• The medium and standard sized school buses can only be serviced at a mechanic for trucks, due to their large size.

With an International Schools Bus, the opportunities for conversion are essentially limitless.

This incredible conversion has it all.

A fully-equipped kitchen lines one wall, while a massive seating area lines the other. There is plenty of room for the whole family here!

The back of the van has a massive king bed- this bus certainly has the space for it! 

I also love how much natural light the windows let in, this is certainly a benefit of an International School Bus conversion.

Full video → School Bus Converted to an Amazing Tiny Home

8. Mercedes Vario 814

• Roof Height: 158 cm
• Length: 690 cm
• Width: 237 cm

Prices: $10,000-$25,000 used

Pros of the Mercedes Vario for Full Time Van Life

• The Vario is so big that you will have ample living space in a Mercedes Vario van conversion.
• The Mercedes Vario has a unique and vintage look.
• You can find the Mercedes Vario at an affordable price point.

Cons of the Mercedes Vario for Full Time Van Life

• Because the Mercedes Vario is no longer being manufactured, it may be difficult to find replacement parts for it.
• Due to its large size, the Vario is difficult to park and maneuver.
• You will not be able to do any stealth camping with the Vario.

This lovely conversion demonstrates the true potential of a Mercedes Vario conversion for a traveling van.

This van truly makes the most of the extra space. 

The front of the van has a full shower and bathroom.

The galley houses the kitchen, which is quite large and has plenty of counter space, as well as overhead storage. 

One of the benefits of a large vehicle for van conversion is the option to have a fixed bed as well as a large seating area.

This particular conversion has a large fixed bed as well as a huge couch seating area!

I also love how they hung the surfboard up on the ceiling. Not only is this a way to keep your surfboards safe inside, but it also serves as a great piece of decor. 

Full video → Unique, Modern, and Secure Van Conversion

9. Iveco Daily

• Roof Height: 155cm low roof, 190 cm medium roof, 210cm high roof
• Length: 352cm SWB, 410cm LWB
• Width: 200cm

Prices:  $40,000 used / $50,000 base model / $130,000 with LWB and upgrades

Pros of the Iveco Daily for Full Time Van Life

• The Iveco Daily is one of the best vans on the market for an off-roading vehicle. For anyone who wants to live in a van full time and go on off-roading adventures, this is a great option.
• This is a huge campervan, so there will be plenty of room for your conversion.

Cons of the Iveco Daily for Full Time Van Life

• Due to its large size, this is not the easiest van on the market to drive around and maneuver.
• Iveco Daily Vans are quite expensive.
• Large fridge/stove/ sink
• Indoor shower solution
• Large seating area 

If you’re looking for a large campervan to convert, look no further than the Iveco Daily- one of the best road trip vans for those looking to do some off-roading!

This campervan conversion is incredible. It takes full advantage of this large van’s size, and incorporates a large fixed seated area directly behind the two front seats.

Moving further along the galley of the van is a large kitchen area complete with plenty of counter space, a sink, stove, and refrigerator.

The shower system in this campervan is ingenious. The flooring in the kitchen is a shower pan, and the sink area is all watersafe.

There is a showerhead on the ceiling of the van, and a shower curtain protects the rest of the van from getting wet!

The back of the van has a large fixed bed, and it can fit lengthwise in the van due to the extra-large shape of the Iveco Daily, along with a little help from flares- one of the best campervan bed ideas. 

Full video → Genius Van Conversion

10. LDV Convoy

• Height: 2.8m

Prices: $3000-$10,000 used

Pros of the for Full Time Van Life

• LDV parts and labor are inexpensive.
• The LDV Convoy is very affordable.
• You will have plenty of space for your conversion inside this van!
• The LDV Convoy doesn’t have the nicest handling, and is not the easiest van on the market to drive and maneuver.
• Due to their age, the LDV convoys do need to be serviced every 6 months.
• This is an older van, and like many older vans, mechanical issues tend to occur more frequently than with newer vehicles.

This particular campervan conversion has an open and airy layout. 

The kitchen is large and spacious, with custom spice racks built-in right above the sink.

In the back of the van, there is a very large couch seating area, with a collapsible table in the middle.

When not in use as a table, the seating area collapses into a very large double bed.

The LDV has a very large and boxy interior which makes it great for conversion, and when you can convert a van as nicely as this one, it is no surprise why the LDV Convoy is one of the best vans for travel and living from.

Full video → Unique Self-Build Conversion

11. Vauxhall Movano

• Roof Height: 170cm H1, 189 cm H2, 204 cm H3, and 214 cm H4
• Length: 318 cm SWB, 368 cm MWB, and 433 cm LWB

Prices: $5,000-$25,000 used/ $40,000 new

Pros of the Vauxhall Movano for Full Time Van Life

• The Vauxhall Movano is a very tall van, so you will be able to stand up with ease in this van- which is a major convenience when it comes to living in a van full-time.
• It comes in many different sizes, so you can easily choose the perfect size to fit your needs for living in a van full-time.

Cons of the Vauxhall Movano for Full Time Van Life

• It is not the easiest van to maneuver and drive. 
• The Vauxhall Movano does not have as many safety features as other vans on the market.

If you’re considering converting a Vauxhall Movano to live in full time, here is an example of an incredible conversion for full-time van life!

This beauty is a MWB fully converted to be lived in full-time. 

The kitchen is clean and simple, with an extendable countertop for extra space for meal preparation.

The back of this van conversion is incredibly impressive. Not only is there a fixed bed, but also a fixed seating area! 

The large fixed platform bed fits lengthwise in the van. 

At the foot of the bed, there is a small bench seat area, with a table that slides out in between the bench seats! 

Underneath one of the bench seats, there is even a portable toilet. 

This van conversion is clean and simple, yet completely sufficient for full-time van life! 

Full video → Unique and Spacious MWB Van Conversion

12. Coachmen Starflyte

• Roof Height: 190cm
• Total Length: 6.4 m
• Width: 2.2 m

Prices: $10,000-$30,000 used

Pros of the Coachmen Starflyte for Full Time Van Life

• It’s already equipped to be lived in full-time, so you can save time and money preparing to live in this vehicle full-time!
• With such a large amount of space, living on the road full-time will be easy and comfortable.

Cons of the Coachmen Starflyte for Full Time Van Life

• These Rvs are reported to have frequent water leaks, so you may have to complete some renovations of the water system.

The Starflyte Coachmen is one of the best options for conversions if you’re looking for an extra-large space to live in!

These Rvs are quite large, and come at an impressively affordable price point. 

This impressive conversion demonstrates the full potential of the Coachmen Starflyte. 

There is not only a large kitchen and bathroom area, but also a fixed bed and a fixed dinette seating area. 

For anyone looking for a large vehicle to live in full-time, you should look no further than the Coachmen Starflyte! 

Full video → A Totally Remodeled RV

13. Nissan NV

• Roof Height: 135cm low roof, 195 cm high roof
• Length: 273cm
• Width: 122 cm

Off-Roading Capability: Yes!

Prices: $8,000 used / $30,000 standard / $45,0000 with upgrades 

Pros of the Nissan NV for Full Time Van Life

• The Nissan NV is very light and easy to maneuver, so driving this vehicle around will be a breeze!
• This is one of the most affordable campervans on the market.
• It is very easy to have repairs done on a Nissan NV.
• There is a fully electric version available. 

Cons of the Nissan NV for Full Time Van Life

• The Nissan NV only gets about 10-15mpg, so it will rack up a hefty fuel cost over time.
• While it is big enough for full-time van life, it is still a smaller campervan, so you will have to get a little clever with your van conversion to fit everything in.

While the Nissan NV may be one of the smaller vans on this list, it is still a fantastic option for a camper conversion. 

Plus, there is even a fully-electric version!

For example, this clever conversion fits a kitchen, bed, workspace, and still has ample storage. 

Full video → Fully Electric Van Conversion

14. Ford E350

• Roof Height: 137cm
• Length: 350 cm 
• Width: 133cm

Off-Roading Capability: Yes, with some models.

Prices: $5000 used/ $35,000-$45,000 new

Pros of the Ford E350 for Full Time Van Life

• These vans can handle a heavy payload so the weight of your conversion can be a little heavier than with other vans.
• These vans come at a much more affordable price point than some of the more popular choices for vanlife. 

Cons of the Ford E350 for Full Time Van Life

• This van has high annual repair costs. 
• It is a smaller-sized van.
• The Ford E350 is very susceptible to rust.

For anyone considering a Ford E350 as one of the best vans to live in full time, we sure do have a fantastic example. 

This incredible conversion takes full advantage of the fact that this van is smaller sized, and makes good use of every bit of space. 

Additionally, this van has been fully upgraded with a 6-inch lift and off-roading kit.

The layout is quite open, and the front seats are on swivels to offer a nice seating area. 

This van is complete with a full kitchen, including a Camp Chef stove and oven combo.

The back of the van has a huge fixed double platform bed which has plenty of space underneath it for storage. 

Full video → Epic Off-Road Van

15. Toyota Coaster

• Roof Height: 189 cm
• Total Length: 625 cm
• Total Width: 202 cm

Prices: $7,000-$30,000 used/ $100,000 new

Pros of the Toyota Coaster for Full Time Van Life

• Its large size provides plenty of space for full-time van life
• Used, older models of the Toyota Coaster can be found for a very affordable price!
• Toyota Coasters will hold their value in the long term.

Cons of the Toyota Coaster for Full Time Van Life

• Due to its large size, stealth camping is not a viable option with the Toyota Coaster.

With so much space and at an affordable price, the Toyota Coaster is one of the best vans to live in!

Take this beautiful conversion for example- 

This van conversion features a walk-in bathroom, a large kitchen, and an incredibly spacious bed in the back.

I particularly love how open and creative this conversion is.

There is a lovely bench seat couch lounger in the van set just beneath a window. When not in use as a lounger, this space converts into a dinette with two seats and a table!

This Toyota Coaster conversion is quite impressive, and certainly helps make a case for the Toyota Coaster as one of the best van life vans.

Full video → The Ultimate Tiny House on Wheels

Mercedes E-Sprinter (coming 2024!)

Mercedes-Benz is adding an all-electric variant to the  Sprinter  van family for 2024. Dubbed the  eSprinter,  this electrified workhorse is sure to appeal to eco-conscious vanlifers! Especially when considering it is likely to have a 300-mile range (this is ground-breaking because existing electric vans in this size class have ranges of around 70 miles). This might be the first electric vehicle suitable for (comfortable) full time van life!

The versatility and load capacity of Sprinter vans hold appeal for a wide range of uses in the commercial sector. Still, the recent overlanding trend has boosted the popularity of diesel and gasoline Sprinter vans among everyday consumers as well. Competence off-road and aftermarket possibilities have turned a lot of eyes to these Mercedes haulers. We are interested to see how shoppers respond when eSprinters start production in Charleston, South Carolina, during the second half of 2023.

There isn’t a lot of information that we can share about the all-new 2024 Mercedes-Benz eSprinter yet. What we do know is that the largest of its available batteries is coming to the U.S. first. According to an independently monitored test performed by Mercedes-Benz, this battery proved capable of just over 300 miles of range on a full charge while averaging 35.2 kWh/100 miles (21.9 kWh/100 km). The calculations bear out that the U.S.-bound eSprinter should have a battery capacity a little north of 105 kWh. Pricing is not available at this time. But based on the price of the standard Sprinter, we think it’s safe to say the eSprinter will start above $50,000.

Final Thoughts

That’s about it!

I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about each of these vans.

My hope is, that this guide will help you decide exactly which van is the best van for your new vanlife adventure!

Just remember to take your time, as buying the ideal van really is crucial.

The last thing you want to do is rush into a van that is maybe too old, or simply not big enough for your needs.

Instead, the ideal van will last you for years to come.

Build your own adventure

The guide anyone can use to convert a van into a camper! With over $350 worth of savings inside

Do you want to live vanlife at zero cost?

Nate Murphy knows how to buy vans, convert them quickly and efficiently - use them for years - and then sell them for a profit. This can make vanlife not just free, but profitable!

He has successfully done this for years and he teaches his friends and students to do exactly the same. It is not obvious, but anyone can do it if they have the knowledge!

Join Nate at his free online training (running today) and he will teach you exactly how he does this!

The Van Conversion Guide (14th Edition)

The guide anyone can use to convert a van into a camper! This best-selling guide, now in its 14th Edition, has been used by thousands of people to transform a van into a camper.

• 150+ page eBook
• Helps you convert any kind of van
• Diagrams for all the main systems
• FREE mini-course - 28 video tutorials

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15 Best Camper Vans To Live In For Full-Time Vanlife

• Last Updated: March 19, 2024
• 22 minutes read

Are you ready to ditch the traditional lifestyle of making your home in an apartment or house? These days, more people than ever before are making the transition to tiny homes on wheels, in a movement known as vanlife. 

How do vanlifers make their life on the road actually work? What is the ultimate-best van for this type of lifestyle? 

Vanlife-styles tend to vary greatly, and each vanlifer has a unique experience to be sure. Different vehicles will be preferable, depending on your travel plans.

However, there are some commonalities for the types of vans or vehicles this group of people finds most successful for full-time life on the road.

Best Vans to Live In Full-Time

Cargo vans are the most popular vans for full-time vanlifers, and for good reason.

These vans are usually tall enough inside for occupants to stand, have adequate space for a variety of layouts and features, and can blend in for stealt​​h camping .

Several of the best van models for full-time vanlife are cargo vans, but there are quite a few unique additions. 

If you are considering full-time vanlife, check out the list below and then do your research.

Some vans are more suitable for off-road adventures, while others are more conducive to blending in and city camping.

Depending on your budget, style of vanlife, and your needs in a vehicular home, some vans may be preferable to others.

Top 15 Vans for Full-Time Living

Just under 50 percent of vanlifers are doing it full-time, with the rest doing it to travel for a few weeks or months.

According to the survey from OutboundLiving.com, vanlifers primarily prefer cargo vans, but there are a few other popular choices for the types of vans they choose. The breakdown is as follows: 

43% – Cargo Van

18% – Passenger Van

13% – Volkswagen or Hippie Van

12% – Other*

8% – Bus or Schoolie

*I, myself, am currently living full-time vanlife with my partner, and our “home” falls under the “Other” category! It’s a converted Suburban by SUBOVERLAND. 

These are just general categories, though, and today’s vanlifers can find lots to choose from when selecting their ideal home for life on the road. Here are the 15 best camper vans for living the van life:

1: Mercedes Sprinter  

One of the most popular vanlife vehicles is the Mercedes Sprinter van. This is the quintessential, classic design for the modern day vanlifer.

It usually comes in inconspicuous, neutral colors such as white, gray or black, and can have side windows or not depending on the options available, your choice and/or conversion budget.

Before the conversion, your brand new Sprinter could cost between $35,000 and $57,000, and the conversion alone could cost $30,000 to $150,000 or more.

Despite the high price tag, a Sprinter is the dream van for many. Note: Mercedes, Dodge and Freightliner Sprinter vans are all technically Mercedes Sprinter vans.

The brand may be different depending on the year the vehicle was made. 

Special Features: Rear cross-traffic alert, parking assist with rearview camera, drive-away assist, active lane-keeping assist, blind-spot assist, active cruise control with distance assist, active braking assist, downhill speed regulation, and more. 

2: RAM ProMaster  

Another popular vehicle for full-time vanlife is the RAM ProMaster. It is low-profile for stealth camping, has a high ceiling inside for standing room, and can be configured for many vanlife-friendly floor plans.

One perk of choosing a RAM ProMaster over a Mercedes Sprinter is that many mechanics across the U.S. are more likely to stock replacement parts for a RAM than a Mercedes, especially in more remote towns.

However, RAM ProMaster vans have a below-average reliability rating, so you may have more breakdowns than you would with another van make or model.

RAM ProMaster vans are more affordable than the luxury Mercedes Sprinter model, costing between $31,000 to $44,000 for a new van, before conversion. 

Special Features: State-of-the-art cabin tech, with standard Uconnect® 5-inch touchscreen, Integrated Voice Command, Hands-Free Calling, Bluetooth® Streaming Audio and convenient steering wheel controls.

Rear doors can swing open 260˚, open 60 inches and can fold almost flush against the van’s exterior. Dual sliding side doors can open up to 49 inches.

3: Ford Transit

The Ford Transit is an affordable, somewhat more reliable, and comfortable vehicle for full-time vanlife.

It is available in a variety of models, with extra seating or length, colors, and features.

The Cargo Van and Crew Van models have high ceilings so that you can stand up fully inside.

Whether you choose the cargo, crew or passenger van model, the Ford Transit is an excellent and more affordable base vehicle for vanlife.

The price for a new Ford Transit before your conversion will run between $24,275 and $41,000.

Special Features:  There’s a 31-gallon tank available, as well as Ford’s Co-Pilot 360™ technology, front and rear split-view cameras, enhanced active park assist, FordPass Connect™, power sliding side door, two available center consoles, and more.

4: Vauxhall Movano

This U.K. van has everything you need for full-time vanlife, with four available lengths, three heights, and a fuel-efficient diesel engine.

Manual and automatic transmission options are available as well. Choose from a variety of classic panel vans, or go with a Doublecab if you’re vanlifing with a family.

New Vauxhall Movano vans typically run between £21,328 and £29,000, before conversion costs.

Special Features:  Movano offers a Navi 50 IntelliLink Pro for Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ to project your smartphone onto a 7-inch touchscreen display. There’s built-in navigation, permanent rear-view camera, and Lane Departure Warning.

The quintessential van for life on the road is the Volkswagen Bus, which is also known as the Hippie Van.

It has a cute, classic look and often comes in some pretty unique and fun colors.

Prices can range widely, depending on the age and condition of the bus, but can cost as little as $19,500 or as much as $145,000.

Some classic VW buses are already converted for vanlife, however, so you can save on the conversion and pay around $30,000, total. 

ClassicCars.com and AutoTrader.com are the most popular places to find VW buses, since Volkswagen is no longer selling these vintage buses directly.

The new Volkswagen Bus is electric, which is a big pro for vanlifers who also want to minimize their environmental impact.

It provides nearly 300 miles of estimated range before requiring a re-charge, and can recharge about 80 percent of its energy capacity in 30 minutes.

For vanlifers headed to remote or off-the-grid destinations that don’t have charging stations, however, the classic model may be more appropriate.

Special Features:  Varies, but  it’s a classic ! Check out  Kombi Life on YouTube  for some ideas for what full-time vanlife in a VW bus looks like.

6: VW California

Volkswagen’s California van is another classic with modern finishes, ready-to-go interior conversion, and reliability.

It has a pop-up roof to expand your interior space, and is already converted with a fully fitted kitchen that includes a cool box, sink and stove kitchen unit.

There’s also a camping table and chairs that easily stow away to save space.

Many VW California models come finished in beautiful retro two-tone paint to give it that nostalgic VW bus feel.

Prices for new Volkswagen California camper vans start at £55,281.00 to £63,591.00, depending on whether you choose the California Ocean or California Coast model.

Special Features: LED headlamps with lens, navigation system, Digital Cockpit and Driver Alert System, Adaptive Cruise Control, double glazing in rear seat area and heat-insulating glass in front, Parking sensors, and Manual Pop-up roof and awning (California Coast model).

7: Knaus Boxdrive CUV

If you’re looking for a van that’s ready to hit the road, without spending the time and money on unique conversion, the Knaus camper van models may be perfect for you.

The Boxdrive and Boxstar Knaus camper vans come pre-made with Knaus’ layout, which is both a pro and a con.

You won’t need to pay extra for the conversion, but you also won’t have control over the interior layout.

These vans are intelligently designed from the inside, out! There’s plenty of room to stand inside, and lots of other features that make these vans ideal for full-time vanlife.

The Boxlife models also sleep 5-7 passengers, for families who live on the road.

Knaus Boxdrive vans start at a base price of €79,990, but again, no conversion is needed.

Special Features:  Front Assist with city emergency brake function, Trailer Assist, Park Assist and Park Pilot, Atmospheric ambient lighting, Unique form language in furniture construction, floating dinette table, 90-litre compressor refrigerator, variable bench seat in living area, spacious in-room bath, multifunctional vehicle rear, and more.

8: Citroen WildCamp

Another classic from decades past, the Citroen WildCamp rivals the Volkswagen van among vanlife enthusiasts.

It’s built a bit tougher than the VW bus, however, with a roof rack that has enough storage for two spare wheels, a fold down ladder and more space for your bulky adventure gear.

The WildCamp runs on a 161-hp BlueHDi diesel engine. Inside, the captain’s chairs swivel into your living space, and the bed folds down from the living space for versatile living.

The kitchen features a two-burner gas stove, a stainless steel sink, a water jug and a 12v fridge with a built-in freezer.

There is also an in-unit bathroom. Prices for a new Citroen WildCamp range from €27,132 to €41,597.

Special Features: ABS and brake assist, full monitoring systems, Hill Start Assist and built-in captain’s chairs. An Alpine 9-inch premium infotainment system is also available if you want a GPS navigation system on board.

9: Mercedes-Benz Luton Box Van

For a cargo van with more of a room-like interior space, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Luton is a great option.

Unlike other Sprinter and cargo vans, the cargo area is a rectangular box that may be easier to convert into your living space for life on the road. 

However, there are no windows unless you choose to cut them out in the conversion.

The Mercedes Sprinter Luton has a high payload and lowered loading height with front-wheel drive, and features a 9-speed automatic transmission.

Used Luton Box vans will cost about £13,500 to £16,450 before the costs of conversion.

Special Features: MBUX infotainment system and high-resolution 7-inch touchscreen (10.25-inch screen available), LINGUATRONIC “Hey Mercedes” voice control and geocoded map system, increased payload and cargo area, Active Brake Assist, and optional electric parking brake.

10: School Bus

Perhaps the most variable van on this list for living full-time on the road is the school bus, or skoolie.

Buses come in a wide range of sizes and conditions, with some already converted into tiny homes for vanlife, and others needing to be gutted before you can start your unique conversion.

Skoolies are excellent for vanlife because they tend to offer more space inside, which you can convert for your needs.

Some school bus vanlifers build multiple rooms and living spaces in their skoolies, while others like to leave the space open. 

You will probably need to take extra measures to insulate your school bus for living on the road, since single-pane windows are a common feature of almost every bus.

Pricing ranges widely for skoolies, and you may be able to find one pre-conversion for only a couple thousand dollars.

Already converted school buses range in price from $18,000 to $35,000 or more.

It’s important to have a professional mechanic check out your van or bus before you buy, and this is even more crucial with school buses.

They tend to run larger than most vanlifing vehicles, and may have special mechanics or issues that you will want to know about.

11: Renault Trafic Camper

If you’re looking for a van that’s perfect for stealth camping and is a bit more subtle on the road, the Renault Trafic is a great fit.

It’s modeled like a modern-day passenger van, and pre-conversion has seats for up to nine passengers. The interior design is spacious and modular, perfect for a conversion.

You can also opt to add a SpaceClass table inside the passenger area to cut your conversion costs.

The front cab has lots of clever storage cubbies for all of your knick-knacks.

In terms of reliability, the Trafic has a really good reputation and a strong record, minimizing maintenance and repairs you should expect.

Prices for new Renault Trafic vans range from £25,150 to £27,500, before your conversion.

Special Features:  ABS with Electronic Brake Distribution, Start and Stop technology, Electronic Stability Control with Hill Start Assist, rear parking sensors, interior load side panels, LED headlights, left- or right-side loading door option, and the option to add side steps for easier entry and loading.

12: VW Crafter

Fans of the Volkswagen brand who want more of a Sprinter van design will love the VW Crafter panel van.

This van is an excellent base for your full-time vanlife vehicle conversion, no matter what size you’re looking for.

You can choose from three vehicle lengths and three vehicle heights.

It’s also primed for a conversion, with 14 lashing rings recessed into the floor, lashing rails on all of the walls and an interior roof rack to use as the base for your build.

The cabin also has practical storage for smartphones, laptops, tablets, water bottles, coffee cups, sunglasses, a flashlight, folders, gloves and more.

The price for a new VW Crafter before conversion ranges from £26,745 to £48,046.

Special Features: Forward collision warning including autonomous emergency braking, without adaptive cruise control.

It also has Front Assist, City Emergency Braking, Trailer Assist, Park Assist, cross wind assist and side protection alerts. 

In the cab, you can choose to have a partition without a window, ergoComfort suspension seats or 2-seater bench in cab, and a sliding door left in load/passenger compartment.

13: Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

More of an adventure van than a tiny home, the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 is still a great vehicle for vanlife, especially if you need something more rugged for off-road adventures in the national parks.

Plus, it’s already converted for living on the road in comfort, with a compact fridge, sink and even a microwave.

The integrated penthouse top provides even more usable space and sleeping options within the van for ultimate comfort and versatility.

There’s a countertop and storage cubby that rotates outside for food prep and other needs, and the roof is equipped with a storage rack, solar panel and awning.

An access ladder makes it easy to load, unload and access the roof. Sportsmobile has also ruggedized the exterior with a steel-reinforced fiberglass shell.

Pricing starts at $20,945 , but it includes the living space conversion so you can hit the road right away.

Special Features: Advance Adapter Atlas II All Gear Driven Transfer Case, Dynatrac Pro-Roc 60 Front Axle, Dana 60 Rear Axle, Fox 2.0 Performance Series Shocks, High Knuckle Front End for Extra Tie Rod Clearance, Extra Heavy Duty Steering Arm, and more.

14: Four Wheel Campers

The growing popularity of vanlife has inspired some people to convert their own SUV or van for full-time life on the road.

Almost as variable as skoolies, four wheel campers can be converted from almost any 4wd vehicle.

What’s more, you can usually do so at a fraction of the cost to convert many of the other vans on this list.

Features and amenities vary widely, and are only limited by the space you have, your imagination and your budget.

From personal experience, I can tell you that the SUBOVERLAND San model is a great four-wheel camper for full-time vanlife.

This is especially true if you don’t have the time or know-how to do your own conversion.

However, it’s not for the faint of heart and it’s certainly not ‘glamping’ to live out of one.

It’s by far more comfortable and convenient than tent camping, but you can’t stand inside and you have to cook and eat in the great outdoors.

Special Features (SUBOVERLAND): 33” all-terrain tires and full-sized spare, storage cubbies/wardrobe, bed platform and full-length drawers, memory foam mattress, wood panel ceiling, rubber flooring throughout, WeatherTech floor mats, solar shower, rooftop basket rack, LED interior lights and on/off switch, insulated window panels and privacy curtains, 100-watt Renogy solar panel, two Renogy 100-AH AUX batteries, Renogy Voyager solar charge controller, Renogy 1000-watt inverter, Wirthco battery isolator, Dometic CFX28 fridge/freezer, and Fantastic Fan.

15: Rivian Electric Truck

Although it’s not a van, technically, the Rivian Electric Truck is the new adventure-mobile of the future. It’s fully electric, but has a great range at 400+ miles.

Instead of an interior living space, vanlifers will need to buy and install a pop-up tent on the bed of the truck for sleeping, or just pitch a tent from the ground.

This vehicle is more accommodating for adventures in remote or rugged locations, and probably won’t work well as a stealth camper.

However, it’s well suited to off-roading and exploring nature from a comfortable and energy-efficient vehicle.

The Rivian is on pre-order only right now, with prices starting at $69,000.

Special Features: Energy-efficient stadium-shaped headlights, digital dashboard, charge-level indicator, lockable storage drawer with 12 cubic feet of space, flexible crossbar system for mounting gear or a pop-up tent, three 110 V outlets, air compressor, and energy-dense weight distribution capacity.

Best Styles Of Vans For Different Types Of Vanlife

With all of the choices, it may be overwhelming to whittle down your options to find the best style and size of vehicle for your version of vanlife.

Below is a quick summary based on different van-lifestyles, and may help you refine your search.

Budget may be a primary factor, which will help narrow down the list of vans to consider from one angle.

However, the way you plan to live while on the road is one of the most relevant ways to find the ideal van for your new lifestyle.

Without further ado, here’s our list of the best vans for different priorities of live on the road:

Best All-Around Van for Full-Time Vanlife : Mercedes Sprinter, RAM ProMaster or VW Crafter

Best Van for Travel & Mobile Living : Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster, Knaus Boxdrive

Best Van for Living Big : School Bus (Skoolie) or Mercedes-Benz Luton Box Van

Best Van for Stealth : Renault Trafic, VW Crafter, Ford Transit, RAM ProMaster or SUBOVERLAND (Four Wheel Camper)

Best Adventure Van : Four Wheel Camper, Sportsmobile Classic 4×4, Citroen Wildcamp, VW California

Best Affordable Van : RAM ProMaster, Ford Transit, or other U.S. cargo van

Best Looking Van : Volkswagen Bus

Best Van for Maintenance : RAM ProMaster, Ford Transit, or other U.S. cargo van

How Much Does It Cost To Convert A Van?

Nearly 80 percent of vanlifers choose to save on their conversion costs by outfitting their van themselves.

For nearly half of these people, the conversion took 2-6 months, but around 32 percent have been able to complete a van conversion in less than 8 weeks. 

After the complexity of your build, the timeline often depends on your budget, whether you have help, and the amount of time you can dedicate to the project.

If you’re working full- or part-time while building your van conversion, it may take a bit longer than if you have the ability to focus on the project full-time.

31% $1,000 to $5,000

24% $5,001 to $10,000

17% $10,001 to $20,000

16% Less than $1,000

8% $20,001 to $40,000

3% Over $40,000

7 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Van for Full-Time Vanlife

As you continue in your journey to find the perfect van for full-time vanlife, there are a number of important factors to consider:

Price 

The options vary widely if your van budget is unlimited, but for most vanlifers, budget is a strong factor in their decision.

Most vans – even new ones – can be purchased for around $25,000, but you’ll need to keep your conversion budget in mind as well.

However, there are a number of vans on our list above that include the conversion. Also, you may be able to find an older vehicle to convert, or purchase a used van that has already been converted for vanlife.

Some vans, like VW buses and Four Wheel Campers, are smaller and you’ll be more limited on space. Others, like school buses, have enough square footage for a couple of rooms.

The happy medium is cargo and passenger vans, which often have enough space for a sleeping and kitchen/living space.

Many cargo van manufacturers also make vans in extended sizes if you need more room.

Mileage & Condition 

Full-time vanlifers are probably going to be putting lots of miles on their new ‘home’, so mileage is a very important factor to consider when choosing a van.

An older vehicle with more miles may break down more often or more quickly reach the end of its life.

The technical state of the van, including its servicing history and whether it’s been in an accident, also plays into the consideration for condition. Rust is also something you should be aware of.

Mechanical Complexity 

When you’re living on the road, you won’t always be near a city or town for servicing and you may need to maintain or fix your van yourself.​

If the vehicle is more complex or is imported, it may be a challenge to handle repairs on your own.

Complex mechanics also often mean that maintaining or replacing them can be expensive, even if you’re doing the labor yourself.

Parts Availability 

One reason many vanlifers choose a U.S. cargo van is because parts are more readily available (if they’re traveling in the U.S., that is).

You may want to consider where you plan to go when choosing your van, since the availability and price for replacement parts could significantly affect your travels if you have an issue or breakdown.

Safety 

Many of the newer vans have lots of extra road safety features included, as well as extras like parking assist and hill climb assist.

Your van is about to become your home, but it’s still a vehicle and you will want to be safe as you travel the open road.

You may also want to consider security and alarm features, especially if you will be stealth camping in cities where your vehicle is more likely to be broken into.

However, if your van doesn’t come with a security system, you can always add one.

Appearance 

Last, but not least, is the look of your van. It’s curb appeal of a different kind, but it still matters for a lot of vanlifers who want an attractive as well as functional space to call their nomadic home.

What Will Vanlife Look Like for You?

Another big consideration for the type of van you choose should be your lifestyle while on the road.

For example, if you’re going to be living the digital nomad lifestyle and working remotely from the road, you may want a van that has space for you to work out of.

Your type of journey should play just as much into your choice for a van as the vehicle, itself.

Questions to ask yourself:

What is the weather going to be like?

Will I/we be going to different climates? The insulation and features of your van may need to be different depending on your answer.

Will there be a lot of rain or humidity?

Will we be camping near the ocean a lot? If the answer to either of these questions is “yes”, avoid vans that are notorious for rust (i.e. Mercedes Sprinter vans). Click here to learn more about rust and how it affects vanlife.

Will you be traveling a lot of miles, quickly?

Or are you going to take your time? Either way, you’ll probably want a vehicle with low miles, but this is especially true if you’ll be traveling long distances. You might also want to choose a vehicle with better fuel efficiency so as to save on gas.

Is your travel route mostly on highways or off-road?

You’ll have more choices with the former, but you will need a high-clearance or 4×4 van for off-roading travel. Weight will also be a consideration for off-roading and also for your fuel efficiency.

How will you be camping? 

​ If you are going to be staying in cities and stealth camping , you will want to choose a vehicle that blends in (i.e. a cargo van).

Keep your vehicle’s clearance in mind for city camping as well; since taller vehicles may not fit into many parking garages if you need to park there. 

If you’re primarily going to be camping on free land or in the national forests, an adventure van or even an RV would be totally fine.

Also, if you will be vanlifing across Europe, keep in mind that most roads are very narrow and the towns are small, so larger vehicles may not be the best choice.

Things to Do Before You Buy Your Van

Sure, you may find your perfect van just around the corner in your hometown, but the reality for most people is that it’s a bit of a search.

Even if your neighbor up the street has your dream van for sale, there are still some things you should definitely do before you sign the check:

Set Your Budget

After you’ve narrowed down your list of ideal vans for your style of vanlife, you need to refine your budget.

Be prepared to pay for the value of the car – if there’s a bargain deal out there, it’s probably for a (bad) reason.

Set your budget based on the vehicle itself, your conversion costs, and the first two years of maintenance.

Just to be safe, a comfortable maintenance budget is probably around $2,500 to $3,500, although it depends on your vehicle and the typical cost for replacement parts.

Be sure to stick to whatever number you set for yourself; as much as you may want to splurge for that perfect van, save your dollars for your travels.

Start Your Search

Beyond the manufacturers, themselves, there are several websites out there that list vans for sale.

Of course, you may find your dream van on Craig’s List or Facebook Marketplace, but the options will probably limited to your location.

It’s also a lot harder to search using these platforms, because the search filters are not specific to vanlife vehicles. Some good sites to start searching for your van include ConversionTrader.com, ClassicVans.com, CarsForSale.com, and RVtrader.com.

Do Your Research

As you search, be sure to look into all of the details about the vans you’re considering. Take note of important technical information such as mileage, age, features, your own personal pros and cons, and of course, price and relevant links to the van listing.

Organize your info into a spreadsheet or document, so that you can refer back to everything you learn at-a-glance.

Bring a Mechanic

Once you’ve found some vans, or even the van, be sure to have a mechanic check it out before you buy it.

Even if you know your way around an engine, a mechanic can help identify potential issues that you might miss. Inform him or her about your plans, since adding lots of extra miles or living and sleeping in the van may prompt some extra things to think about.

Take a Test Drive .

It should be possible for you to take your potential van for a test drive before you buy it. If you’re lucky, you may be able to borrow it for a night or two to test it out in a local campground (for already converted versions).

If not, or if the van you’re considering isn’t converted for living out of, consider renting a similar model from EscapeCampervans.com, RVShare.com, Outdoorsy.com, or another service.

Even if the model you rent isn’t much like your dream van, you can get a more hands-on experience for what life on the road might be like.

You can also test out different features, and you may discover things that change your priorities around before you’ve spent your hard-earned money on a less-than-perfect van.

Final Thoughts

As overwhelming as buying your van may be, remember that this is the start of a wonderful adventure!

You’re about to open yourself up to some amazing experiences and sights, and you will remember this time forever.

Not to mention, you will probably have some crazy stories to tell throughout and after your journeys, meeting new people in all sorts of places.

Don’t let the process of finding the perfect van get in the way of that. Hopefully this guide will help you navigate your search with greater knowledge and ease.

At very least, we hope it helps you get on the right track toward finding your new home base for full-time vanlife.

After you’ve bought your van, it’s time to start your conversion! Unless you have purchased a van that’s already converted, this can be another somewhat overwhelming task.

We will be following this post with another featuring some great van conversions and layouts, so stay tuned!

About Author / Aaron Richardson

Aaron Richardson is an expert RVer and the co-founder of RVing Know How. Aaron, along with his wife Evelyn, has been living and traveling in their Keystone Fuzion RV since 2017. Their adventures span across the country and beyond, including memorable RVing experiences in Mexico. Aaron's passion for the outdoors and RVing shines through in his writings, where he shares a blend of travel stories, practical tips, and insights to enhance the RV lifestyle.

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The 15 Best Camper Vans for Road-Tripping in Style

Now you can experience #vanlife in comfort and style..

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The first years of this decade have already provided ample evidence that it’s important to get away from our daily lives from time to time.  And you don’t have to suffer the airport hordes or step foot on a plane to do so. We currently find ourselves in something of a golden age for luxury trailers, which has made it easier than ever to take your life on the road without sacrificing many, and in some cases any, of the comforts of home. And now, there are plenty of manufacturers and dedicated conversion shops giving the same treatment to vans and other similar vehicles. They may not be able to sleep as many people as their hulking cousins—with one key exception—but these all-in-one wonders come loaded with perks such as high-end kitchens, Wi-Fi-enabled multimedia systems, and plush beds. Plus, their relatively smaller size means they are more agile, off-road friendly, and easier to park. Below are 15 campers that will let you experience #vanlife in comfort and style.

Our Best Camper Van Picks

Best overall: airstream interstate 24x, best for off-roading: jayco terrain, best for weekend getaways: mercedes-benz eqt marco polo, best for off-the-grid trips: winnebago solis, best for cyclists: outside van tails, best for camping (anywhere): storyteller overland beast mode 4×4, best to live in: loki expeditions discovery series, best all-electric option: tonke eqv.

• Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl

Best With a Bathroom and Shower: Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary

Best for $50,000: caravan outfitter free bird, best for families: winnebago boldt, best for winter road trips: sportsmobile sprinter 4×4, best conversion: boho old faithful, best for diy couples: ford transit trail.

Airstream. Thankfully, the company isn’t afraid to branch out. Just look at the  Interstate 24X , the trailer maker’s attempt to take the camper van to new heights. Built on the bones of a  Mercedes-Benz  Sprinter—like a lot of the models on this list—the vehicle has everything you need to rough it in comfort. Airstream has done a lot to maximize space in its climate-controlled cabin. A modular dining table doubles as a desk, and it can be easily converted into the largest sleeping area in a Class B Motorhome. There’s also a full mini kitchen and bathroom. You can take the van off-roading, too. In addition to a 3.0-liter turbo-diesel V-6 engine that churns out 188 hp and 325 ft lbs of torque, it also comes equipped with four-wheel drive, a height-adjustable suspension and all-terrain tires. Pricing for the all-around beast starts at $213,850.

Inside the Interstate 24X

Special Features: —A climate-controlled living area that has been designed to maximize available space. —A modular dinner table, a mini-kitchen and a bathroom with a toilet.

Jayco is best known for its hulking travel trailers, but like Airstream, it can do compact, too (well, compact enough to fit in a parking space, that is). The US company’s new  Terrain  model, which starts at $192,000, is an adventure van designed for those who like to veer from the beaten path. As the name suggests, it’s designed for off-roading, with a turbo-diesel V-6, Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a rear hitch strong enough to tow an additional trailer if you need more room. Inside, it’s a little spartan compared to some other options on this list, but its kitchenette can be converted into a sleeping area with room for a full-size bed, as well as plenty of storage space beneath. There’s even a built-in awning when you need some shade in the summer months.

Inside the Terrain

Special Features: —Equipped with Koni shocks, a rear stabilizer and a heavy-duty tow hitch. —Kitchenette can be converted into a spacious sleeping area with room for a full-size bed.

Mercedes-Benz clearly doesn’t want to relinquish its title as the go-to van maker for outdoor lovers. At last year’s Düsseldorf Caravan Salon, the German marque showed off a prototype based on its upcoming all-electric EQT van called the Marco Polo. The stylish EV has everything you need for a weekend at the campground and is more compact than the ubiquitous Sprinter. When the van’s rear seats are folded down, the back can be used as either a sleeping area with room for a double bed or a cooking and entertaining space. The kitchen doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of some of the other entries on this list, but it does have a pull-out stove, fridge and sink. There’s also a pop-up, roof-mounted tent if your travel party includes more than two. The Marco Polo is a concept, but Mercedes will sell a module that will allow you to turn any EQT into a camper van when the $51,500 EV goes on sale in the spring.

Inside the Marco Polo

• Mercedes-Benz

Special Features: —All-electric power train, so you don’t have to worry about doing too much damage to nature while you explore it. —Its  camping  gear—from the bed to the kitchenette—is part of a module that can be fully removed when you need more cargo room.

The Winnebago Solis is for adventurers who don’t want to be confined to the campground. The van is available with an optional power kit that has everything a group of up to four adults needs to spend a few days off-the-grid. The setup, which includes an inverter, a shore battery converter, a battery energy converter, a solar energy converter and an alternator energy optimizer, can produce enough power to keep the van and all its features running for up to 72 hours. On top of that, the van features a kitchenette, a convertible entertainment area with room for a double bed, and a full-width wet bath.

Inside the Winnebago Solis

Special Features: —A unique power kit that can provide enough power to spend up to 72 hours off the grid. —Still has all the features you’d expect from a luxe camper van, including a full-width wet bath.

If you like to mix biking and camping, Outside Van has the vehicle for you. The Portland brand’s  Tails  model is a camper van designed with cyclists in mind. The van, which is based on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, has everything you need for a few days away from home, including a kitchenette, a roll-over sofa and a convertible mattress. But what really sets it apart is the rear of the vehicle that’s basically an on-the-go bicycle repair shop, with a fold-down work table, an air compressor and Molle panels to hang all your tools. If that wasn’t enough, it somehow has room for six bikes, even when the bed is laid out for the night.

Inside the Tails

Outside Van

Special Features: —The back of the van is basically a bicycle-repair shop with a fold-down table, an air compressor and plenty of storage space for tools. —Has room for six bikes, even when its convertible sleeping area is out.

This latest offering from Storyteller Overland, based in Birmingham, Ala., is a true adventure van. The  Beast Mode 4×4  is the outfit’s most feature-packed model yet and was designed specifically for overlanding (as you may have guessed from the company’s name). It’s a true 4×4 powered by a 188 hp turbodiesel V-6 that’s strong enough to tow an additional 5,000 pounds. Its slick retro-style livery is offset with loads of useful off-roading gear, too, such as an LED light package, a roof rack and a side ladder and custom wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich K02 tires. Inside, you’ll find everything you need to relax after a day of exploring, including a cushy lounge that can be converted to a full-size sleeping area. There’s even a climate-control system to ensure you’re comfortable no matter the weather outside. It’s priced at a flat $198,746, for everything listed above.

Inside the Beast Mode 4×4

Storyteller Overland

Special Features: —Turbodiesel V-6 sends 188 hp of power to all four wheels and is strong enough to tow 5,000 extra pounds. —Surprisingly cushy lounge for an off-roading beast.

Let’s get this out of the way: the Loki Expeditions Discovery Series isn’t technically a camper van. It’s a giant expedition vehicle, but because its cabin is installed directly onto a heavy-duty truck chassis you also don’t need anything to tow it. The vehicle’s cabin is what separates it from anything else on this list. Loki Expeditions has turned a shipping container—yes, you read that right—into a full-featured living space that has all the amenities you’d expect to find in a luxury apartment, including a full kitchen with a large fridge, an entertainment area with a U-shaped banquet, and a wet bath with a cassette toilet. It’s also big enough to sleep six adults, with room for two in the dedicated bedroom and four in the entertainment area. And because the heavy-duty vehicle, which starts at $550,000, has all-wheel drive, you can take it practically anywhere.

Inside the Loki Expeditions Discovery Series

Loki Expedition

Special Features: —Cabin has all the features you’d expect to find in a well-appointed apartment and can sleep six adults. —Built on a burly heavy-duty truck chassis that gives you the freedom to venture off the beaten path.

Looking for an EV you can take to the campground. The upcoming EQV just might fit the bill. Despite its relatively compact size—it’s smaller than the ever-popular Sprinter—Dutch camping outfit Tonke has managed to outfit it with everything you need to spend some time communing with nature. It has an entertainment area that doubles as a workspace along with a kitchenette, both of which can be converted into a two-person sleeping area with a simple flip of a bench (a roof-mounted, pop-up tent means it can sleep two more, too). Best of all, there are two variants available—the Touring, which is designed for long road trips, and the Adventure, which is aimed at casual campers.

Inside the Tonke EQV Touring

Special Features: —Fully electronic power train means you won’t have to worry about filling up the tank (though the battery is another story). —Can sleep up to four even despite its relatively compact size.

Best for G-Wagen Lovers: Terracamper Tecrawl 

The Tecrawl isn’t a camper van per se, but it’s hard to leave something this cool off a list like this. Terracamper’s latest offering is based on one of Mercedes-Benz’s most legendary vehicles, the G-Wagen . The German shop has dreamed up a modular accessory kit for the luxury 4×4, that starts at $11,900 and includes a roof-mounted tent, a convertible sofa, and a pull-out kitchenette with a fridge box. Thanks to the ingenious setup, the boxy SUV can sleep up to three and act as your home base next time you want to rough it for the weekend. And because it’s a G-Wagen you can take it as far off-road as you want.

Terracamper Tecrawl 

Terracamper

Special Features: —A G-Wagen but has room for up to three people to sleep. —Packs a brawny powertrain that’s well-suited for off-road adventures.

Thor Motor Coach makes camper vans for those uninterested in making sacrifices. With the  Sanctuary , the company has taken Mercedes-Benz’s already excellent Sprinter 2500 4×4 and turned it into something you could easily live on—on or off the grid. The off-road-ready vehicle comes in two configurations—the 19P ($148,680), which features a back bench that converts into a bed, or the 19L ($151,060), which has a fixed double bed. Even with the bed there’s still plenty of room for other creature comforts, including a bathroom, an entertainment area with a TV and a kitchen with a sink, a dual-burner cooktop, a convection microwave oven and a fridge. An Onan 2500 LP generator keeps everything up and running, too, including an A/C system you can leave on for eight hours at a time. There’s also retractable power awning when you want to spend some time outdoors.

Inside the Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary

Thor Motor Coach

Special Features: —Full-featured bathroom has a sink, a shower and a toilet. —Available with your choice of either a convertible or a fixed bed.

Caravan Outfitter’s third-generation Free Bird isn’t the most feature-laden camper van out there, but it has everything you and the family need to spend a weekend (or more) at the campground. The van, which starts at $50,810, is built on the relatively compact Ford Transit Connect platform but still has room for a full-size bed, a multi-purpose table that can be used as a dinette or workstation, and a pull-out kitchenette with a sink. Because it’s smaller than other options on this list, it only has room to sleep two, but there are several enticing add-ons, including roof- and rear-mounted capsule tents, in case you’re traveling group includes more people.

Inside the Caravan Outfitter Free Bird

Caravan Outfitter

Special Features: —It’s the rare camper van that’s small enough to be comfortably parked inside your garage. —Caravan Outfitters offers several intriguing add-ons so you customize it to your liking.

Airstream isn’t the only famous RV maker that’s gotten into the camper van game. Winnebago actually sells several, and our favorite is the luxe  Boldt . Despite being nowhere near as long as one of its campers—it caps out at 22 feet in length—the $230,276 van has everything you’d expect from the larger vehicle, including dedicated living and sleeping areas, a fully functional kitchen and a bathroom equipped with a shower. You also have several interior decor options to choose from, each of which delivers an updated take on classic Winnebago style. The Boldt is designed for paved roads and campgrounds, but if you want a more rugged ride, the brand also offers the off-road-ready  Revel.

Inside the Boldt

Special Features: —Stretches 22 feet bumper to bumper, meaning there’s plenty of room for you and yours. —Enough space for dedicated entertaining and sleeping areas.

Take one look at  Sportsmobile’s Sprinter 4×4  and it’s clear what its designers had in mind: off-roading. Whether you go with the 12- or 14-foot configuration, the Texas outfit’s stripped-down take on Mercedes’s ultra-popular van comes equipped with a 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 connected to a five-speed automatic transmission and pumps out 188 hp and 325 ft lbs of torque. That should be more than enough to tackle even the toughest terrain. Inside, you’ll find a spacious living area with a full-featured kitchen. If you want even more room, you can also opt for a pop-up sleeping area that’ll make it that much easier to lounge in comfort.

Inside the Sprinter 4×4

Sportsmobile

Special Features: —Well insulated throughout, but also has space for a propane furnace or heater. — 3.0-liter BlueTec V-6 and four-wheel drive mean it can take on any terrain.

Struggling to find a camper van that’s just right? Boho might be able to help. The Arizona-based company specializes in conversions and will work with you to create the vehicle of your dreams. The company offers several 20- to 24-foot layouts—of which the most popular is the appropriately named Old Faithful—that can be further tailored to meet your needs, whether your priority is multi-season versatility, lots of cooking space, or spending serious amounts of time on the road. The company also offers plenty of cool add-ons too, like wood paneling and flooring.

Inside the Boho Old Faithful

Boho Camper Vans

Special Features: —Versatile layouts that can be further customized so that you’re getting the exact van you want. —The wooden interior option looks better than it has any right to.

Ford’s ready to knock the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter off its perch. The Detroit giant unveiled its own camper van, the Transit Trail, last fall. The adventure-ready vehicle is based on its uber-popular commercial van but is taller, wider and outfitted with protective body cladding. It’s also powered by a potent V-6 that sends 310 horses and 400 ft lbs to all four wheels via a 10-speed automatic gearbox. Right now, Ford seems content to let the $65,975 vehicle be the base for the camper van of your dreams, but it comes loaded with a slew of features that will come in handy at the campground, including a drillable wall you can use to install shelves, a kitchenette or furniture, along with a 12-inch infotainment touchscreen and a back-up camera. It also available in three body configurations—medium-roof, standard length; high-roof, standard length; and high-roof, extended length—one of which should fit your needs.

Inside the Transit Trail

Special Features: —It’s basically a blank slate for you and your partner to create your own dream camper. —Still comes with premium features such as a 12-inch infotainment screen and a back-up camera.

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15 Best Vans To Live In Full Time

Before you buy a live-in van, learn how to spot a lemon

Initiates to the van life often begin shopping with second-hand vans for conversion, or for campers that have been prebuilt by companies. In fact, we took the latter route, as it makes good sense for truly customising your kit.

Here’s what we’ve learnt about assessing whether the van’s in good nick before you buy it:

• Check the seat belt for wear and tear . Pull it down a few times and check to see if the material is frayed. This will give you an indicator of how much use it’s had (after all, odometers can lie!)
• Feel the bonnet before you switch the ignition on . Some dealers or sellers will warm the engine up before your arrival so that it looks as though the van starts up on the first time. If the bonnet is cold and it starts on the first go, then you’ve got a winner.
• Place a hand near the exhaust pipe while the engine is running . You want to make sure that no black soot is coming out with the exhaust fumes.
• Check the engine for signs of exterior wear and tear , and have a good look at the underneath of the chassis and exterior panelling for any signs of rust. Look closely, as they’re easy to cover up!
• Finally, ask as many questions as possible, and do a DVLA check for previous owners before you go to look at the vehicle. Take a mechanic or a friend who knows their stuff with you if you’re a little unsure.

The 15 best vans you’ll love living in

The tiny houses you see on Instagram and Pinterest are often still palaces compared to your van, so it’s important to make sure that every inch of your ride counts. We’ve found the fifteen best vans to convert into rolling homes :

1. Mercedes Sprinter

The quintessential conversion vehicle has to be the Mercedes Sprinter. They come in all shapes and sizes, and are the go-to vehicle for many conversion companies, thanks to their durability and power. If you’re looking for a sturdy base vehicle that is still reliable even when you get into ‘hundreds-of-thousands-of-miles’ territory, then a Sprinter is the van for you. Indeed, it is an ideal candidate for the off-the-grid home of your dreams .

Mercedes are a global name in the motoring world. So, whether you break down in Morocco or lose your exhaust in Kent, parts and spares aren’t hard to get hold of. There’s also lots of aftermarket products and specially made gear that you can buy to fit your Sprinter too, making it one of the most malleable vehicles on the market.

The VW Bus remains the top choice of ‘best van to live in’ for many since the 1970’s. From the So-Cal surf days through to today’s Digital Nomad, the Volkswagen Bus Camper is an iconic vehicle immersed in van life culture. And, when you take a look at these busses up close, it’s not hard to see why.

Sadly, the early VW busses aren’t in production anymore, so parts can be hard to come by, and expensive to purchase. Nevertheless, there’s a cadre of van life DIYers and small businesses using 3D printers to make some of the smaller interior parts themselves. There’s even a growing niche of companies specialising in replacing VW Bus engines with 100% electric options–perfect for turning a classic ride into an eco camper .

These busses are loved today just as much as they were almost 60 years ago, and remain the quintessential van for that ‘summer of love’ feeling. (Indeed, this is one of Van Clan founder Brandon’s personal favourites!)

3. Vauxhall Movano

I couldn’t wait any longer for this one! The Vauxhall Movano is the van I began full-time van life with. I’ve been riding it through the UK for 14 months, and can attest to its virtues for the gig firsthand.

We bought a 2003 model, with 90K miles on the clock and a fibreglass maxi roof. This is one of the tallest vans I’ve been in (it’s tall enough for Rose to do a headstand in), and it’s served us comfortably on our UK Van Life journey thus far.

The best thing about a fibreglass roof is that it’s easy to cut through, and even easier to patch back over if you make a mistake or change your build plan. We had to do this pretty recently when we removed our beloved log burner–it’s still too soon to talk about it though.

As a live-in vehicle, the Movano has been a dream to run. Practically speaking, it’s just the right length to not have to worry about finding extra large parking spaces. Overall, if you don’t need the extra length of a Sprinter but want something tall enough for a fixed bed, then this is the best van to live in. Yes, I’m pretty biased, but I love our Vincent!

4. VW Crafter

Another classic VW product, and another quintessential van life pick. The VW Crafter, like the Sprinter and the Movano, is a commercial vehicle for transporting goods. Its spacious nature, plus its amazing build quality from a trustworthy manufacturer, make it a top pick for  van dwellers around the globe.

Parts are much easier to obtain for Crafters than their retro cousins, as they’re still in production today. So don’t worry about visiting a garage on the other side of the world on your travels.

These vans can cope with rough terrain just as well as they cruise down motorways and country lanes. Moreover, the Crafter is a top choice if you’re looking for an LWB (long wheel base) vehicle that doesn’t cost the earth.

5. Ford Transit

A true British classic, and the ride of choice for “white van men” everywhere, the Ford Transit Camper may just be the best van to live in. This is in no small part due to its universally renowned maker, with plenty cheap parts, and overall rugged construction.

The Ford Transit is typically a MWB (medium wheel base) vehicle, so it’s a little smaller than the likes of the Sprinter and the Movano. However, you can get LWB and E-LWB to make extra space for onboard showers, stoves, etc.

The Ford Transit Camper Conversion is a natural choice for the van-lifer in training who doesn’t have a massive budget, but wants a quality van to get them going on their travels.

It gets a hard rap from some people in the business, but we think that they’re great runners. Besides, their shape makes them easy to add wood panelling and interior features without too much hassle. It might not suit if you’re looking for extra headroom, so try out a few different models before you buy.

6. School Bus

I know it’s not a van, but you can’t have a list based on alternative living methods without including the poster child of the lifestyle. Ask any American traveller, and they’ll tell you that this little yellow bus is the best van to live in because of its space, its durability, and because converted busses look downright awesome.

Think about how these busses get used day in and day out during their service lives. They’re kept in good nick by the schools, and built to last because they have to get kids from A to B on time, every day. Parts are readily available because American schools still use them. And, their bright yellow colour means that you’ll never lose track of where you parked your home again.

So, why do we like this little adventure bus so much? Well, they can take on pretty much anything that you throw at them, and they look very homely inside once converted. The windows give ample light, and they’re high enough to have a fixed bed without losing tonnes of living space.

We’ve seen so many different school bus conversions, that we’ve lost count (one even had roof tiles on it!) Indeed, there’s a network of bus lifers out there who can help out if you’re stuck on what to purchase, or having mechanical problems. Trust in the people, and buy yourself a bus!

7. Renault Trafic

Renault, Citroen, and Vauxhall vans are usually very much alike. In fact, they’re pretty much the same vehicle, with a slightly different exterior and badge. That being said, the Renault Trafic has seen some major conversion upgrades by certain companies that have thrown it ahead of its competition.

Take German conversion company Kompanja . They’ve turned a ‘run-of-the-mill’ goods vehicle into a camper with attitude, showing us the possibilities that can come with purchasing one of these vehicles.

In its base form, the standard Trafic van isn’t the best vehicle for long-term off grid living  because of its height. It is, however, perfect for the weekend warrior who likes to get out whenever they can. If you buy a ready-made conversion or are thinking about adding a pop-top into the equation, then everything changes.

Being able to stand up in your home is the one thing that we believe is essential if you’re on the road 24/7, and the addition of extra height would undoubtedly make us reconsider adding one of these to the Van Clan mobile fleet.

8. Knaus Boxdrive CUV

Knaus is well known for making futuristic looking vehicles with all of the modern conveniences that you could ever need for life on the road. And their Boxdrive CUV is a serious contender for the title of ‘best van to live in’. With space-age LED lighting, a clean and comfortable living space, luxury leather seating, a master bedroom, and an onboard shower, it is a true luxury van. Yet, it somehow doesn’t cost the earth.

This ‘Caravanning Utility Vehicle’ is based on the VW Crafter that we touched on above, so you can see what is possible if you do want to convert your own home on wheels. While I love the country-house-on-wheels that Rose and I converted in our Movano, there’s no way that we could compete with this factory-made finish, nor the stylish, sleek interior that you get from a proper company-made model.

The Knaus might not have all of the extras that some of the more expensive vehicles have, such as the EarthRoamer or the VW California XXL , but it’s a premium ride in all the ways that count.

9. Citroen WildCamp

Like the look of a retro van but don’t want the hassle of maintaining it? Citroen has come to the rescue with the WildCamp–a thoroughly modern vehicle with that classic motoring touch. It’s over 70 years since the Type H Van was roaming around our streets; now the WildCamp has brought this iconic ride back to life, and it’s ready to foster a whole new generation of  van life stories .

Any vehicle that uses the words ‘wild camp’ is bound to be built for off-grid living, and Citroen delivers on this model’s namesake. This is the easy choice for those adventures who just want to buy a vehicle and get out into the wilderness on the same day.

With its nostalgic retro feel and modern interior, you’ve got yourself an Instagram star in the making. More importantly, the CUV is comfortable, spacious, has enough storage for all of your cooking accessories and campervan gifts . It’s a reliable, smooth-running van that you can trust to get you to your destination–without feeling like you’ve been on a roller coaster for half of the journey.

10. Four Wheel Campers

Got your own truck but don’t want to buy a separate camper for the weekends? You need to give Four Wheel Campers a try.

These camping pods attach directly to your truck bed, and can be removed and put into storage whenever you like. We were lucky enough to be flown out to California to spend a bit of time in these beasts. We couldn’t believe how user-friendly they were, and how quickly we made them feel like home.

The pop-top on these four wheel campers provides ample space for standing, cooking and working, and the bed pulls out to make a sleeping platform that you never want to leave.

All in all, these camping units provide your favourite truck with an option into the van life. We thoroughly recommend checking out the Four Wheels Co website to find out more information–and to locate a dealer near you!

11. Mercedes-Benz Luton Box Van

A Mercedes-Benz Luton Box Van can make a perfect home, as they allow you so much space. The Luton is still a fairly unusual choice, but is growing in popularity thanks to the rise in self-conversion and independent campervan conversion companies.

One of the best things about a Luton van is that the extra space above the cab of the van is large enough to comfortably hold a double bed that you can sit up in. This means that you can use the entirety of the main space solely as a living space and kitchen area, without worrying about where the bed should go.

A Luton van is even big enough to create a generously sized bathroom–and carry enough water to actually be able to use it! It also features an easy shape to convert, as all edges are straight and square. They also allow for more overhead storage, making the interior feel like a room in a house, rather than the inside of a van.  

The Luton Box Van may boast a tonne of living space, but it’s small enough a vehicle to allow for easy driving and parking in most places. They are not an unusual van to see in a city (think removal and delivery vans), so driving really shouldn’t be a problem for you or anyone else on the road.

As they’re made by Mercedes, they are reliable and durable. Indeed, the most important feature of any van for full-time living is that they’ll go anywhere and last you a long time. Besides the practical aspects, there’s just  so much room for creativity in your interior decorating! Overall, if you’ve got the will to make it work, the Luton Box Van is a shoo-in as one of the best vans to live in.

12. VW California

If you’re looking for a reliable van for day trips or long weekends, the VW California may be the perfect choice. Heck, if you’re used to spending a lot of time outdoors and love a minimalistic lifestyle, then you could probably live in this van for months at a time!

The VW California comes in at about £50,000, so they aren’t exactly the cheapest campers on the market. But the extra expense is definitely worth it, especially if you’re looking for a flexible ride equally adept at navigating the wilds as an underground carpark.

Just like the VW Busses of old, you can customise the VW California to your specifications. This vintage-looking number above is a testament to the fact that a modern camper can still hold a sense of retro-class. That picture also gives you a good idea as to how easy it is to live in this van once the top is popped.

This VW California may be ‘the best van to live in’ because it shows that the very notion of van life is totally subjective. It’s really all down to how small a space you can comfortably live in.

With a pop-top or awning, you can transform a small space into something luxurious. Imagine cooking outside in good weather–it could even feel like you’ve got an extra room in the van (albeit a massive green and blue one, with no roof, and lots of birds floating about). Besides extendability, small campers  like the VW California (and its junior counterpart, the VW Caddy) can get to places where big panel vans just can’t.

Consider the type of places that you want to go to before you purchase your van or start converting!

13. Rivian Electric Truck

It’s come to my attention that we don’t have many electric campervans  in this list, so I’m changing that straight away. The Rivian Electric Truck could well be the best van to live in if you like living green, and are conscious about the environment (as well you should be!)

Rivian’s latest creation can drive almost anywhere, and can cover over 400+ miles with a single charge. That’s a mammoth distance for an electric truck to cover, and a serious feat of engineering.

Admittedly, the Rivian is perhaps more impressive for its off road capabilities than as a camper that you could live in full time. But it’s still perfect for living off grid on weekends, or for long holidays out in the wilderness. The pop-up tent on the back of the truck keeps you up off the wet ground (and away from annoying creepy crawlies), then packs down easily when you’re ready to move on.

There’s also a pull out kitchen for cooking, and plenty of dedicated space for storing gear and gadgets.

Electric off-road trucks such as the Rivian Electric Truck and the Tesla Truck Camper  are making waves in the over-landing world. And, we may well start to see more electric behemoths hitting the roads over the next few years. Truck campers like this are perfect if your van life adventures regularly take you into the back-end-of-beyond, or if your driveway consists of 50 miles of rough desert road.

Be the king or queen of the wilderness without killing the planet with this massive 4×4 monster. Head over to our article on the Rivian Electric Truck for more information on what this baby can do!

14. Sportsmobile Classic 4×4

Up next on our list of the best vans to live in is one of my all-time favourites: the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4. If you’re looking for something that will serve you just as well on rough terrain as it does on the freeway, then this beast of a van is the one for you.

The Sportsmobile takes a Ford Cutaway body and moulds it with a reinforced fibreglass shell. The combination yields a unique look that’s perfect for off-roading, yet amply spacious enough for full-time van living. It’s got all the high-spec upgrades needed to take your vehicle on the rockiest tracks, including a ground clearance of a whopping 16.5”.

Inside, the Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 utilises a pop-top to give you extra headroom, meaning you can stand up without a problem. This is good news if you plan on living in or spending months at a time in your campervan, as it’s great to be able to stretch out and stand when cooking.

The interior is entirely customisable to your needs and can, therefore, include everything you need for a life on the road. This could consist of a full kitchenette with sink, hot water, cooker, fridge and storage space; a seating area that converts into a bed; and a complete solar electric system, eliminating the need to source electricity from the grid. Plus, there are plenty of extra storage boxes mounted to the exterior of the vehicle which are great for muddy or bulky equipment.

The Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 comes in at $40,000, with plenty of added extras available. Not the cheapest van on the market, but if you’re looking for a camper van to take you wherever your heart desires, then it could be worth the investment.

15. Ram ProMaster

Last but not least on our list of the best vans to live in, we have the Ram ProMaster. The ProMaster is becoming a significant competitor to the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit vans in the campervan world, and is worth considering if you plan on living in your van all-year-round.

The Ram ProMaster earns its claim as one of the best vans to live in with ample space. Indeed there’s enough to fit a full-sized bed across the width of the interior. This is in contrast to the Sprinter and Transit, where you must sacrifice length. This can save you loads of space in your conversion for other components in your campervan build. The ProMaster is also the only one of these three vehicles to have front-wheel drive, making it easy to drive, handle and park.

You can easily convert the inside of a Ram ProMaster to accommodate everything you could ever need for an epic adventure. Here’s a practical example: a plug-n-play conversion kit from Wayfarer Vans . This handy little kit means any DIY novice can create an excellent campervan set up for under $10,000.

The kit comes complete with flooring; cargo tracks to secure your gear in under the bed; wall and ceiling panelling with 100% natural wool insulation; shelving; a kitchen unit with 5-gallon fresh and grey water tanks; sink with hand pump; large bed platform and mattress; boot box; and privacy panelling for sliding and rear windows. The only things left to add is your gear (oh, and a toilet) and you’re ready to start living in the Dodge Ram Van Life!

Is A Self–Conversion The Best Van To Live In?

Not at all! If you want to get a van that’s pre-built and cuts out the hassle, then that’s fine by us. The bonus of buying a pre-built camper is that if anything goes wrong with the interior fixture and fittings, then the deal can usually either fix it themselves or recommend someone good that they use themselves.

And That’s A Wrap!

Thank you for checking out our list of the best vans to live in. I hope that it has given you some inspiration for your own adventures and has helped you to pick a vehicle that is suitable for your individual needs. If you’re still spoilt for choice or need a little bit more help then join the Van Clan community on Facebook , Twitter and Instagram and ask others to help – nothing beats advice from the experts after all!

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• This Vanlife Camper Shower is a great gift for the adventurer in your life.
• The  TomTom Go Camper will help you pick the best routes on your travels
• Get the Parrot Anafi for the ultimate drone experience.

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The 15 best vans for van life: your home on wheels.

• Bill Widmer
• Updated: March 16, 2023

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The first step in living in a van  is, well, buying the van!

But which van should you buy? What should you look for? Should you look at cargo vans or passenger vans? So many questions!

Don’t worry – we’ve done the research so you don’t have to. Here’s a list of the best vans for van life so you can build your dream van. Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents

1. mercedes benz sprinter van, 2. ford transit, 3. dodge ram promaster, 4. nissan nv, 5. ford e-series vans, 6. gmc savana / gmc vandura / chevy express, 7. chevy astro van, 8. classic volkswagen vans.

• 9.  School Bus (Skoolie)

10. Box Trucks

11. vw california, 12. sportsmobile classic 4×4, 13. four wheel campers, 14. mercedes-benz luton box van, 15. car conversions, more van life tips, the best vans to live in.

In order of best to still awesome but way more affordable, here are the 15 best vans for van life:

The Mercedes sprinter vans  are known for their reliability, durability and, most of all, their customizability. All the -ilities.

This makes it an ideal choice for many van lifers.

The sprinter van also comes in versatile sizes. You can choose either a 144” or 170” long body depending on how much living space you want. They’re also available with a diesel 4×4 conversion for those wishing for off-road capabilities.

The main downsides of these vans are that they are pretty pricey, hard to find used, and complicated to fix. As stated though, these vans are incredibly reliable.

In the event of a breakdown, it could be costly to get towed to a Mercedes dealership or to someone knowledgeable in specifically working on a sprinter van.

There are also many conversion companies that build out the sprinter van, if that’s the route you’re going with your camper van!

Regardless, it’s very easy to see why the sprinter van is viewed as the quintessential van for van conversions.

Ford Transit camper vans  are another incredibly popular van for van lifers. Ford stopped making their wildly popular econoline cargo van and replaced them with the Transit in 2014. Econolines have always been known as workhorses and were the perfect fleet vehicles.

Ford transits are typically RWD (rear wheel drive), but Ford also offers a 4×4 option, making them another fantastic adventure van. They are also fairly easy to fix, which means finding a repair shop shouldn’t be a terribly difficult task.

The towing capabilities of this van are not as impressive as some of its competitors– which could be a downside for some.

However, one major  perk of choosing a ford transit camper van over some other options is how tall the roof is. The Ford Transit high roof is a whopping 6 feet 9.5 inches tall. This officially makes it the tallest van- an easy choice for tall van lifers!  

Dodge Ram Promasters  have a similar look to them as the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit vans. While they aren’t as fancy as the sprinters, and not as tall as the transits- they are the widest of all of the cargo vans on the market!

If having extra living space is important to you, then the promaster may just be the best van for you! Especially since the walls of the promaster are almost completely vertical. This makes maximizing space much easier.

One thing to note is that these vans are front wheel drive. While building, weight distribution will have to be at the forefront of your planning. If weight is distributed thoughtfully, this shouldn’t be an issue.

Dodge Ram Promasters are also very easy and relatively inexpensive to fix (compared to the Mercedes Sprinter vans.) There are also many conversion companies that will turn promasters into dreamy camper vans, if that’s the route you choose to go.

Nissan Nv vans  are not very often used as conversion vans. However, they are very reliable, notably less expensive than other more popular vans, and have fantastic dimensions for a dreamy conversion.

Since the Nissan Nv cargo van is commonly used as a work van and not a conversion van, it is also quite stealthy! An excellent choice for stealth camping .

Some of the downsides of the Nissan Nv: It’s a bit top heavy. This makes driving on a windy day a bit tough. They’re also only available in 2wd. However, this vans towing capacity is quite impressive compared to its rivals and maxes out at a whopping 9,400 pounds!

The Nissan Nv also offers an incredibly impressive warranty. Nissan offers 5 years, or 100,000 miles on all vans purchased at the dealership.

As mentioned before, in 2014 Ford replaced their E-series (Econolines) with the Ford Transit van. Ford Econolines  were and still are very commonly used as work vans. They are an incredibly reliable and affordable option for a van conversion .

One downside of the van is that they are very hard to find with a high roof. Meaning- if standing room is important to you, perhaps consider looking elsewhere or installing your own high top roof or pop-up roof.

It is not uncommon to find used models that were pristinely taken care of by companies that used them as work vans. This means they often have a very long life.

Ford never made a 4×4 version of the Econoline, however many owners have added 4×4 capabilities to turn their Econolines into off-roading beasts.

Overall, the Ford E-series cargo vans are incredibly affordable, stealthy, and reliable. This makes them a fantastic option for a conversion van.

Click here to learn about the common issues to look out for when buying a Ford Econoline for van life.

All three of these vans are actually the same van. In 1996 GMC replaced the Vandura with the Savana, and Chevy rebadged the same van into the Express .

Regardless, this van is a popular choice for van lifers because of its size, capabilities and reliability. Many of them were manufactured as conversion vans already.

They were equipped with a back seat that pulled down into a bed, a TV, and a VCR. Plus, the pre-converted ones were built with insulated floors and walls.

Although none of these vans were ever manufactured as high tops, many owners added them. Finding a used version of these vans that was converted into a high roof isn’t uncommon.

Another thing to note about this van is its incredible towing capacity! Depending on the model, their towing capacities range from 7,000-10,00 pounds. This is very impressive for a cargo van!

If you’re looking for an affordable van that is reliable and easy to convert, one of these vans may be the best vans for you!

The Chevy Astro van  is known for its reliability and they’re generally very inexpensive to buy.  The Astro is also very stealthy, compact, and cheap to fix.

One thing to note is that these vans are smaller than most of the other vans on this list. The obvious upside is that they’re easier to drive and can fit in most parking garages. The downside being less space to move around inside and less storage capabilities.

If you’re looking to save money and have a stealth camper van conversion- the Astro van will not let you down.

Classic Volkswagen vans are perhaps the most iconic vans on this list. Many of them are now considered collectors items, and it’s easy to see why.

Back in their hay day these vans were incredibly reliable, spacious, and handled really well. By today’s standards, this is not true. Fixing a VW bus or van is expensive and they’re small compared to many other vans on this list.

Classic Volkswagen vans are also very hard to come by and almost always come with a higher price tag.

Despite all of this, the classic VW vans are so aesthetic and wildly coveted. If you decide to pursue buying one of these vans, it’ll surely retain its value and draw a ton of attention!

9. School Bus (Skoolie)

Okay, okay—I know we’re talking about vans, but no van life article could be complete without chatting about skoolies . School buses come in so many shapes and sizes and offer very spacious living areas.

School buses are generally about 6’6” tall on the inside. This makes them a wonderful choice for tall van lifers.

Plus, Skoolies are known to be reliable and affordable to purchase and finding a well-maintained bus is not a hard task.

It is, however, worthwhile to consider that repairs for a school bus are quite expensive, and finding a mechanic that specializes in them can be tough. Not to mention- most shops are not equipped with the tools to even handle some of the larger models.

Regardless, the design options for a school bus conversion are endless. Many owners are able to create different rooms and achieve a true tiny home feeling. It is so easy to see why school bus conversions are so coveted and so popular.

Keep in mind, however, that because school buses were not designed to be converted into campers, you may have a really hard time getting proper full-time RV insurance !

Box truck conversions are perhaps the most stealthy option on this list! Devoid of any windows, most people will assume the back is filled with packages, chips, or maybe industrial supplies.

This means that for those hoping to fly under the radar and avoid getting “the knock” at 2am– a box truck may be the perfect choice for you!

Box trucks come in tons of different shapes and sizes, meaning finding one that fits your needs should be fairly easy. Most box trucks offer plenty of standing space, and most are equipped with 4wd. The boxy shape also offers more room and an easier build than some of the other vans with unique curves.

Finding a used box truck is also a fairly easy process since so many companies use them. This also means that it’s very common to find them immaculately maintained with comprehensive service records.

A used box truck is a fairly affordable option as well. Many can be found for under $10,000, and the industrial interiors are a perfect blank slate to create a totally custom interior space.

Some of the downsides of choosing  a box van are that they can be a little tougher to drive because of their size, they also are not very fuel efficient, and they can be costly to repair.

The Volkswagen California vans  were built with van life in mind. This is a  passenger van that easily converts into a living space with a bed and a kitchen.

Both the California Beach Tour and California Beach Camper come with a pop top roof already installed, which makes it easy to just park, pop the roof and relax!

These vans are a bit pricey and start at $75,000. However they are fully equipt to be the perfect weekend camper, and can easily be fitted with solar for full time van life.

The biggest downside to this van though is that it is not currently available for purchase in the North American market. Rumors state that it may become available at some point. But for now, we just have to dream of the day we see these beauties on our vast USA highways.  

The Sportsmobile Classic 4×4  was built to be the offroad adventurer’s dream come true.

They are built on the Ford E-series body and equipped with a pop-top “penthouse,” full kitchen and convertible bed. They come with both a regular body and an extended body if you desire more living space.

The Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 also already comes equipped with a 10 gallon freshwater tank, 12 gallon gray water tank, a full solar setup, and full hookups for shore power and water.

If you’re looking for the ultimate off-roading vehicle, the Sportsmobile classic gives you all the capabilities and ground clearance you could ever dream of.

They are quite pricey compared to some of the other vans on this list and start at $175,000. However, they come fully converted and ready for any adventure!

Do you own a truck or want a truck but long for the freedom van life provides?

If so, there are so many options for turning your truck into an overlanding vehicle—and no, you don’t need to pull a trailer.

The most cost effective way of turning your truck into an overlanding rig  is by adding a rooftop tent. These can be installed over your truck bed cover or over the cab and are quick and easy to set up. They are low profile when they’re not in use, and they come in both soft shells and hard shells. They’re also fairly easy to install.

For the ultimate truck camping experience  you can purchase a camping pod that installs right into the bed of your truck. There are several different brands and models available, but the most popular are by Alu-Cab and Project M.

These truck bed pods start at about $9,000 for a soft shelled pop top and go up quite significantly with the more bells and whistles they provide.

This is a fantastic option for those who want to turn their truck into a camper, or for off roaders who want to do multi-day trips. It is difficult to find vans with diesel engines—but many trucks are equipped with them. The customizability is nearly endless!

Check out this roundup review of the best truck bed tents  to learn more.

If you desire the living space a box van provides with the comfort of a luxury van—the Mercedes-Benz Luton Box van  may be the perfect van for you.

These vans are incredibly reliable and provide plenty of space for mobile living. There is space above the cab that can comfortably hold a bed. This can provide a secondary sleeping space, or just free up some extra floor space.

This is not one of the most popular van options, but they are definitely more stealthy than the Mercedes sprinter and boast top tier safety features.

Perhaps you aren’t in the market for a van and are just ready to hit the road on an adventure.

Many van lifers have decided to convert their regular sedans and passenger vans into their home on wheels. This can be as simple as adding a mattress  and packing some cooking supplies up.

It may not be the most glamorous option on this list, but many people have been able to live out of a car and tour the country. The perk being potentially better gas mileage and no problems finding a parking space.

There you have it—the 15 best vans for van life!

No matter what rig you find yourself in, there’s a perfect van out there for every budget and desire. Van life is not a one-size-fits-all experience. It can ( and   should! ) be tailored to fit all of your specific needs.

Finding the right van for you can feel like a daunting task, but there are so many incredible options. The best van for van life is truly subjective.

So whether you decide to purchase an older van, a used van, a brand new sprinter van, or even a unique school bus—there is no wrong way to live van life.

Here are some other helpful van life guides on our blog:

• The 6 Best Diesel Heaters for Camper Vans
• The 98 Best RV Resorts & Campgrounds in America
• How Much Does Van Life Cost? A Comprehensive Look
• 7 Affordable Camper Vans Under $25k
• How to Find public Showers Near You for Van Life
• Best Camper Van Awnings For Your Van Conversion
• 8 Van Life Shower Ideas to Stay Clean On the Road

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Ultimate Van Conversion Buying Guide: Best vans to live in

As I'm looking for my own dream van to start my #vanlife, I've developed a coherent and sound system for evaluating vans (- yes, I know, it's sad, but I'm that sort of guy). I'm learning on the fly, but after checking out hundreds of vans, driving dozens of all sorts and types (really), and talking to vanlifers, mechanics, and enthusiasts, a couple of important points stuck with me.

And now it's time to share these points, simply because picking a van to live out of is a way more complex decision than I've ever imagined it to be beforehand. But to keep it sweet and simple:

What's the best van to live in? The best van to live in depends on your wishes, activities, and lifestyle. It also depends on the amount of work you want to do on the van, your budget, and the type of journey. The most important considerations are size and techical state. You need to make an inventory of your wishes and pick a van accordingly.

Below, I'll walk you through each step of the decision process.

In this article

In this article I'll go over all factors that go into buying the right van, and discuss them briefly. Hopefully it will trigger your own thought process. It has worked wonders for me.

Later on, I give examples of which vans best fit specific needs . After reading this post, you'll have plenty of food for thought and hopefully a solid idea of the van you're looking for. It's everything you need for making a smart buying decision.

As there are thousands of cargo van buying guides out there, I will primarily focus on some points that don't get enough attention, and that are specific for vanlifers.

This is somewhat of a moster read, so to make it easier on you I've added some sections. You can skip there immediately, or pick up where you've left.

• Things to consider when choosing a van

Decisions you need to make

What types of vans are there.

• Pros and cons of each van
• Buying tips

Quick summary of best vans:

• Best all-round van to live in: Promaster or Ducato
• Best van for living big or an office: Mercedes Vario's or TN1 (508/407)
• Best van for mobile living and quick travelling: Euro Cargo vans - Sprinter, Promaster, Transit
• Best van for cheap maintenance: US Cargo vans - Chevy Express, Dodge Ram Van, GMC Savana
• Best van for easy maintenance: Classic vans - VW T1 t/m 3, Mercedes TN1 or Vario
• Best van for stealth camping (boondocking): Sprinter, Promaster, Transit
• Best van to live in pricewise: US Cargo van - Chevy Express, Dodge Ram Van, GMC Savana
• Best looking van to live in: Volkswagen T1, classic vans in general
• Most expensive van to live in: Mercedes Sprinter

The four stages of buying a van

There's four clear stages to choosing a van:

• Considering - Prioritizing your needs and wishes for the van
• Choosing - Narrowing it down and choosing the type or even model
• Selecting - Searching for solid options
• Buying - Buying the best one you can find and afford.

Some things to get out of the way before we get started:

• Maintanence-free vehicles do not exist . If you do manage to find one, please let me and the rest of the world know.
• You should definitely let a mechanic check out the car .
• Oh, did I say you should bring a mechanic?

1. Things to consider when choosing a van

There are a number of factors in determining what van to buy:

• Technical state - number of miles, age, servicing
• Complexity of mechanics - price of mainentance
• Availability - parts, info
• Safety - road safety and van security

Why is size important?

Allright, you have to consider a number of factors very carefully. The most important factor is definitely the dimensions of the van. Since you'll be living out of it, the things you do and want to do on a daily basis determine what van you should get.

Of course there are a number of other important factors, but you shouldn't underestimate the importance of size . Of all vanlifers I spoke to, literally all of them said that size is the number one issue. Whether it's an old van or a shiny new one doesn't really matter that much if it's too small, or too big (yes, too big can also be a problem).

All other factors are, in my opinion, way down on the list. The first three factors are size, size, and size.

Making an educated guess on what size you need can be difficult, especially if you don't yet know what dimensions suit what particular lifestyles.

The best way to get the size right, is to grab a floor plan of the models you like - and start sketching interiors. Ready to get going? Check out our ready-to-sketch floor plans .

You should always buy the best you can afford, without overstretching yourself . Whatever number that is for you, is enterily up to you. But you get what you pay for. Now, in the internet age, there actually aren't a lot of people that don't know the value of what there offering. Mostly, if a vehicle is insanely cheap, there's something wrong with it.

So I operate on the baseline that there are no bargains and that I should accept to pay whatever's the value of the car . If you're planning on buying a $10,000 car, you should prepare yourself to spend the money.

Also, it's a good idea to take the first two years of maintenance into account. I like to set aside a decent amount (around $3,000) and consider this as part of the buying price.

I just set a number and stick to it. My number is sacred, I won't make any exceptions. I found this to be good general life advice to ensure I sleep sound at night.

Technical state

Number of miles

The amount of miles a car has done is a great indication for the amount of maintaince it will probably need. But it's no holy number. Some cars can take a lot of miles before anything needs replacing. Also, the amount of service and oil changes drastically influence the technical state of the car.

I'll always prefer a vehicle that's well serviced over a low amount of miles.

Generally, the number of miles tell you the following:

• Petrol cars will start to fall apart at 250.000 km
• Gasoline cars will start to fall apart at 300.000 - 500.000 km
• Manual transmissions need replacing after 400.000 km
• Rubbers, suspension, etc. will need replacing after about 15 years

We'll come back to age in a minute. Like the number of miles, old age isn't always a bad thing. It can be cheaper and easier to maintain, more predictable and reliable (Daimler-Mercedes has a notoriously reliable OM314 and OM616 engines, which you'll find in the TN T1 and TN T2 , and Varios).

The amount of service is way more important than the number of miles on a car. Unfortunately, it's more difficult to check on the state of the engine. In the buying segment of this guide, I'll show you a couple of neat tricks to get a general feel of the mechanical state of the car.

If the car has been properly maintained (regular oil changes, every 15,000 - 30,000 km), the mechanical state can be very good, even on very old cars.

Old emergency vehicles, busses, etc. are mostly very well maintained (and have low mileage as well). I've seen German firefighter trucks of 40 years old with just 50.000 km and an almost new engine!

Complexity of mechanics

This is a pretty important factor. Before buying any car I want to have a general sense of how complex the mechanics are. This way I can make an educated guess on how my maintenance will work out over time. Are you gonna maintain the van yourself?

I don't have the skills to work on very complex cars, which means that if I buy a complex car, I'll have to calculate hourly garage fees for maintenance.

Also, some cars have notorious electrical systems, meaning only certified dealers will consider working on them. Dealer fees are about 5x higher than an indie garage. Also, some parts of the world don't have dealers. So if you want to go to Mexico, maybe buy an older van, and not the high-tec 2018 Sprinter .

An example are Mercedes Sprinters from 2006 onwards . They have a new electrical emission system (called DPF), which requires a specialized computer that only dealers have.

A good rule of thumb is that all cars before 2000 have little to no electronics, making them easier to maintain yourself.

Availability

Where and when you live determines the availability of the model you're looking for. Why is this important? Because supply and demand. If your model isn't widely available, you gotta be prepared to pay a little extra.

Also it's important to consider what the availability of parts is. Some popular models have plenty of spare parts available, and if there's a large aftermarket, your maintenance will be a lot cheaper.

Please note that an older car doesn't automatically mean fewer parts available . Some older vans, like (again - I think they're just great) the Mercedes TN T1 and T2 (407, 508, etc.) were build for decades and widely popular, were mostly maintained properly by professional firefighters and so on. This means there are plenty of engines, transmissions, and so on available.

The same goes for information. If you're going to maintain the van yourself, it's important there are good resources available, like technical manuals, or a good community (message boards) where you can go and ask questions.

The importance of good mileage depends on how much you're planning to drive, the price of fuel (it's cheaper in the U.S. than in Europe), and the amount you're willing to spend. In my opinion, it's less important than most people think. An older car with bad mileage gives me plenty of other advantages, which I will get into later on.

There are two types of safety to consider. Number one is road safety - meaning: how likely am I to die if I get in an accident with this thing? Number two is safety from break-ins or van security.

Road safety

Old cars are less safe than new cars. They don't have airbags or crumple zones. Or even no seat belts (which is insane!). Getting in an accident with an old car is way more dangerous than in a modern car. So you have to consider how important safety is for you.

In some cars, you can add some safety features yourself , so check for availability beforehand.

Van security

In general, older vans are easier to steal, break open, or vandalize. The upside is: it's an old van! So the paint job probably isn't pristine. So a little extra scratch won't matter as much.

Also, you can add some security features yourself , such as additional locks on the doors. These things make it way more difficult to break into your van, so they are well worth there money. There's also the high-end anti-theft systems, like Bearlock. These things are great. If you get one of these, the thief will have to steal the van driving backwards. So let them have a go at that.

There's a reason this ones at the bottom. It's just not as important as all the other things. I don't mean that it's not important; it's just not as important. I myself find the looks of things hugely important, but bad looks don't give you trouble sleeping or headaches, and van security, financial worry, or seemingly unsolvable mechanical issues do.

So for the sake of my own health and that of my surroundings, I prefer to buy something nice, but not if it's not all of the above first.

Secondly: changing the look on a van isn't that hard or expensive . You can pretty easily change the color (about $1,000 if you put in a bit of work), the bumpers, grille; you can add chrome bars, spoilers, roof racks, and all that jazz.

But you can't change the size! (Well, actually you can, but it's a lot of work, and afterwards, you still have to paint the damn thing). So go for the right size, and then make it pretty!

2. Choosing a van

So we take all of our considerations and try to find the right type of van, and then narrow it down to a specific model or pool of models.

• What do I want and what do I want most?
• What type of van is most likely to meet those wishes?
• What brand and model offers best value for money for my specific needs?

We've considered all the factors that go into making an informed decision. Now we need to prioritize and stick to our priorities. By this I don't mean 'set them in stone'; they can change when you gain more knowledge or information, but you shouldn't go against your own priorities without careful consideration.

So how to do it? Well, it depends. I always start by trying to map out what things I'll do most in the van, and put them in order. This gives me a general sense of what I'll need. In my case, I start with these questions:

What type of journey am I going to make?

Surroundings are key in choosing your van. Where will you go?

• Is it cold or hot where you're going? - A lot of sun, or very dark?
• Is it humid there? Better not buy a van that's notorious for rust. Mercedes comes to mind.
• Are you going to primarily do off-road or high way? Don't buy low or very heavy vehicles.
• Do you want to go stealth or not?
• Are you going to do a lot of miles, or are you going to slow travel?
• Where will you be staying? Ie. Do you need to park the van in large cities? Do you need to be able to park indoors in parking garages (in that case, size is very important)? If you're planning on city-hopping on the Old Continent (Europe), better not buy a large van. Towns are small there.

What am I going to do in the van?

• Are you mostly going to drive, or are you mostly going to live in the van?

What kind of maintenance am I willing to do and in what way will I do it?

• Maintain it yourself? Go with older vans
• Don't want to do a lot of work? Get a Sprinter

Things to consider when choosing age

• What is more important? Living or driving? If you'll be driving the greater part of your time, then you might want to have a more comfortable and quiet drive. You'll defnitely want better mileage, so you should probably check out newer cars.
• If living is more important, and you'll slow travel for example, an old car can be great. Taxes are cheaper in some countries, and insurance as well.

Things to consider when picking size

• Will I maintain the van myself?
• Will I live inside the van most of the time?
• Will I work inside the van (office/desk job)?
• How important is cooking?
• How much security do I want (in terms of burglars)?
• How much security do I want (in terms of maintenance)
• How are you going to build the van? (Going to use a kit? > Choose a compatible van!)
• Do you need a desk? - does it need to be fixed?
• Do you need a kitchen?
• Do you need a bathroom?

What kind of technical specs and features do I need?

• Do I want rear-wheel drive or front-wheel drive? I've recently gone into depth on why most trucks have rear-wheel drive, and why you might want it .
• What type of fuel do I want?
• Do I need air conditioning?
• Do I need power steering?

Stealth camping or not?

I know, everyone wants a stealthy van. And I understand, I was inclined to go for a gangster Sprinter van myself, completely isolate myself from the world, and live for free from now on.

But there's an interesting argument to be made for not doing a stealth camper. I've read this discussion on Reddit, and the guy made an argument that after both living in the stealth van and the classic camper van, he noticed he got into a lot more trouble in the stealth van .

The reason for this is that the 'white van on the corner of the block' is just creepy. It's true, people won't know you're sleeping in there, but they also don't know what you are doing . Could be anything, really. Stake out? FBI? I guess someone who's being all secretive about their intentions just doesn't give off a good vibe.

He talked to a local cop , who said that if you're just outright boondocking in the open, and are honest about it, he won't have any problems with it; whereas with the creepy Sprinter, he will most definitely come and check you out.

So if you're not planning on doing loads of urban boondocking, maybe consider a cute Westfalia?

So what's there to choose from anyway if doing a camper conversion?

• US Cargo or panel vans

Conversion vans

Euro cargo vans, box or luton van trucks, classic recreational vans, classic industrial vans, us cargo vans.

Examples: Dodge Ram Vans, Chevy Express, GMC Savana

If you want to start from scratch, this is a great starting point. Cargo vans are widely available, because many professionals use them as fleet vehicles. You can get your hands on one for about $5,000. Because of availability, maintenance is cheap.

U.S. cargo vans are mostly build on a pick-up frame. This means that they are heavy duty, making them durable. There's a lot of parts available, since they share a lot of parts with pick up trucks

There are a lot of aftermarket parts and they're easy to work on yourself. Also, mostly all mechanics are able to work on them.

Conversion vans are already upgraded in the factory. Generally this means that they have more windows, foldable seats, and extra storage. This can save you quite a lot of time when doing a build. They are a bit more expensive than cargo vans, and they aren't meant for full time living.

Examples: Mercedes Sprinter , RAM ProMaster ,  Ford Transit

These are the panel vans from Europe. They are a bit different than the U.S. vans, since they're not based on a pick up chassis. They are widely available in the EU, but not so much in the U.S. They are about 3 times as expensive as regular cargo vans.

Maintenance is expensive, since they are complex; for certain maintenance you need to go to the dealer.

There are a lot of high top models available.

Examples: 3.5 ton Luton Van

Box vans or Luton vans are a bit odd at first, but if you think about it, they're a practical van for conversion. The chassis, cabine, and engine is exactly the same as their cargo van siblings, though they have a box body mounted to the back frame.

These box body's are rectangular and wider than the cargo models, giving them a lot more floor surface. So you'll have plenty of more room to work with. Also, the straight walls make for easy insulating, and they offer loads of storage (most have a full bulkhead).

Best part is that you get more space without increasing the overall length of the van.

I haven't included them in the table since all parts are the same as that of cargo vans, except for size.

Examples: VW Vanagon, VW T1

Recreational classic vans have a history as being the best weekend getaway vans. They're easy to maintain and use; they are small, so easy to handle; parts are reasonably available. Every mechanic can work on them, including you, if you're willing to put in the hours.

Maintenance is cheap, but it does require continuous work. They will break down all the time.

They are less readily available as some other vans, making them more expensive to purchase. Oh, and they look just amazing.

Examples: Mercedes 407D , Mercedes 508D , Mercedes Vario

If you live in Europa it's quite easy to get your hands on an classic industrial van. These are just amazing conversions vans. They are very reliable, well-maintained, have a great cargo space which is boxy, and can carry heavy loads (making it less hard on the suspension to put in a wooden interior for example).

Also, classic utility vans are generally a bit wider than recreational or modern vans. About 5 - 10cm. This easily gives you up to 0.5m2 of additional floor space.

Parts are reasonably available in the EU, and they're easy to work on yourself. Also, every mechanic loves to work on these vans, as these are among the most reliable and easy engines ever build.

The best feature of these industrial vans is their engine: legend has it that these vans can do over a 1,000,000 km!

Complete summary of pros and cons per van

Narrow it down.

Now we get into the elimination process. Yes, this is definitely my favorite part of any decision.

Pick your top two priorities, and find which vans suit them best based on the table above.

For example, my main priorities are size and low maintenance. The best picks for these two are

• size: Classic Industrial van
• low maintenance: US Cargo van

Now, some questions:

Old or new.

There are typically two large eliminating points in the decision of going classic or modern.

• The level of comfort you need . If this is above average, all classic and old cars are no longer an option.
• Your maintenance budget & method . If you want to do it yourself, definitely consider a classic car. If you don't want to do it yourself, but don't want to spend a lot, get a fairly simple car that isn't too old.

So now you know whether or not you will buy an old car, a new car, or an average car. Great. That narrows it down quite a lot.

4 Buying tips

I won't go into detail on the more basic buying tips, as there are many out there already doing a great job of summing up all the things you need to check (tires, suspension, damage, and so on). Instead, I will try to give you some new tips and a fresh perspective.

Engine health

The most expensive part of any car is the engine, which is why you want to make sure the engine is worthwhile. There

Basic buying tips

To give you a complete overview, these are the most important basic checks:

• Check for leakages in the engine compartment. With older engines, some oil is acceptable.
• Also check the oil cap. If there's a thick white substance in it, it's most likely an indication of a head gasket leak. You don't want that.
• Check the fluids: your oil should be at the proper level. If it's black, it's old oil, which is an indication that the owner doesn't maintain the car very well. Also check the coolant fluid (with a cold engine). The coolant should be a bright red, yellow, blue or green.
• Check how the car starts and runs, listen for a healthy engine sound. There shouldn't be any nocks, ticks, or clicks. Top tip: check the engine type on Youtube to listen to a healthy sound.
• Check if the chassis is straight, and if the engine is at a straight angle to the frame. If not, the car might've been in an accident.
• Check the state of the tires and suspension.

I recommend checking out this video by ChrisFix for a very good and in-depth explanation of what to look for when buying a used van or car:

Buying based on trust

Nobody can check inside the engine, not even mechanics. So buying a van is based on trust to at least some extent. You have to look the seller in the eye and check if you trust him or her. If you have terrible people skills, bring someone who can read people.

Don't be naive about it, but also don't ignore it if someone is telling the truth (which most people are most of the time).

Don't fall in love with a van you haven't driven yet

If you haven't driven it, you don't know it. You have no clue what's going on. Don't become invested in any vehicle before properly inspecting and test driving it. Be stoic about it, is my best advice.

Easily check the engine compression

You'll want to know how good the engine compression is. A simple DIY trick you can do on the spot, is opening the oil fill cap, and starting the engine. The more the cap bounces around, the worse the compression.

The following van is 11 years old and properly maintained. The compression of this engine is not great, but decent:

Are you looking for the dimensions of your van?

Looking for Floor Plans?

About Van Dimensions

Hi, I'm Jim Belt and I own a 1974 Mercedes L508D. I love old vans, especially MBs - and I plan to live in one.

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Living In A Van | The Ultimate How-To Guide to VanLife (2024)

• Last Updated: March 28, 2024

We’ve travelled and lived in a van for years, starting with our first campervan in 2008 and owning 3 more since then, including a brand new Troopy right now! If you are considering living in a van, whether full-time or part-time, this guide will give you an overview of everything you need to know to make the most of van life!

Van life has taken hold of people eager to see the world at their pace and leisure. From full-time van dwellers to part-time roamers, living in a van has become a cross-generational movement where you can save money, visit incredible destinations and be a part of a growing community of fellow wanderers.

We’ve lived in a van at several points in our life together and have loved each experience for entirely different reasons!

From a GMC Vandura we bought for $1600 in Canada right up to our latest beauty, a Mercedes Sprinter van we bought in Australia and now a Toyota Land Cruiser Troop Carrier, we’ve tried it all when it comes to style, budget and comfort.

The van life movement has always existed, at least since the 1960s and 70s, when people took to living in classic vans like the Volkswagen bus and vans to see the world.

Combining a sense of rebellion from the status quo with that of unique adventures that could only be found in such a transient, mobile lifestyle, the early pioneers set the framework for what would evolve into this recent iteration.

The movement stalled for some time. But recently van life has taken hold of people – from millennials to retirees – and if you are one of those people who are intrigued by the idea of living in a van or want to know more about the kind of van life adventures you can find on the road, this post is for you.

We’ll break down everything you need to know about living in a van. From finding the right van to learning about overnight parking and packing the most practical van life essentials , to saving money and tips and tricks for living in such a small space – this post will break down the van life in detail for you!

We’ll also make sure that you understand that van life has some negative connotations associated with it.

And our goal is to help you make the most of van life so that you know what you should and should not do as you pursue a life with so much freedom on the road!

Table of Contents

What is Van Life #VanLife

Van life cost is less than you would think., a good van build offers everything you need in a small space., the scenery is always changing., you can work remotely and save money living in a van., living off-grid has its own perks., the van life community is pretty amazing., tiny spaces can be too tiny at times., road logistics can be wearisome., van life can leave you feeling isolated., unexpected maintenance issues can be stressful., van ownership, monthly expenses (whether you live in a van or not), travel expenses, cargo van options, the classic camper van options, alternative options for van dwellers, why buying a camper van is a good idea, diy van conversion, free camping, paid camping, camping memberships, saving money while traveling, have the right gear, know your van, stay healthy, use campervan apps, stick to a budget, treat yourself occasionally, van life hacks, be kind to each other, always., communicate, regularly., compliment each other, often., argue, infrequently., work together, in everything., van life apps, wrapping up, living in a van – how to guide.

Ready to find out more about the details of van living? Here we go!

The van life movement is nothing more than people opting to abandon what used to be called the “American Dream” of owning a house, working a traditional job and raising a family in a tight-knit community.

And the great thing about it is that it covers such a wide range of van lifers. While many van lifers are younger, opting to explore the world on a seemingly neverending road trip, there are also all sorts of people who range from young professionals who work remotely from their van in beautiful “office spaces” to retirees who want to visit national parks and other incredible landmarks without driving a huge RV around.

For some, full-time van life starts with a “gap year” in transitioning between one chapter in life to the next and turns into over a year of wandering. Others have started on an epic road trip to drive from North to South America along the Pan American highway and found that van living opened their eyes to a whole new world they didn’t realize existed.

And the van life movement does not specifically apply to just van living. While there are a few vans that are most common on the road, the van life lifestyle applies to virtually anyone who chooses to live from their vehicle – whether a recreational vehicle, mini-van, conversion van or even various types of vehicles.

If you are looking for a more carefree life on the road you don’t have to spend tons of money on a van build or the top-of-the-line model at an RV dealership. You can make do with what you have and learn to live the van life accordingly.

Read on as we’ll give you a few ideas about the best kinds of vehicles for living in a van.

READ NEXT: Check out our ultimate van build post to learn how to plan your camper conversion!

Why Would Anyone Choose To Live In A Van? The Pros and Cons of #VanLife

The answer to this question is as varied as the kinds of vehicles you could choose to live out of. For most van lifers, the thrill of the unknown combined with a more affordable lifestyle on the road is the primary reason to choose to live in a van.

For others, the main reason is simplicity. Having surrounded themselves with lots and lots of things over time, they realize that they can live in a tiny space and be perfectly content.

Still, others may be in pursuit of various adventure activities – whether surfing, rock climbing, mountain biking or more – a well-equipped van makes for the perfect adventure machine wherever you seek adventure.

Regardless of why you would choose to live in a van, as long as you enjoy the lifestyle and understand a few things about how living in a van is different from living in other RVs or a brick-and-mortar home, then there really is not a right or wrong answer.

Van Life Pros

There are lots of reasons why van life may be right for you. Here are a few of the reasons we think it’s pretty amazing.

We’ll break down the total van life cost in a later section. But the cost of ownership of a van is tiny compared to the mortgage on a home or paying rent.

And living expenses are significantly less, especially when you consider that you can park overnight for free in many places, can find free WiFi and shower facilities nearly everywhere and the maintenance costs for a van are usually much less than that of a house.

Whether you want to be entirely self-contained with a proper toilet, shower and kitchen or want to rough it a little with the bare minimums, you will find that your van will have everything you need, and nothing that you don’t.

Items you buy will serve multiple purposes. And at the same time, you’ll find that you won’t miss many of the things you leave behind.

There is nothing like waking up next to an ocean, mountain, lake, beach or other incredible landscape one day and a totally different one the next.

Whether there are national parks or other tourist attractions you have always wanted to visit, or you want to try and drive to every state or province, living in a van gives you the ultimate freedom to literally drive after your dreams.

Van life is not about skirting responsibility. For some, it may be! But for many people who live in a van full time and work remotely, not only does the office take new meaning wherever you happen to camp, but also you will find that you can work online and save money along the way.

We know people who have built successful businesses on the road and who ended up having more money set aside at the end of a few months or years than others who lived a more traditional life.

It is not all about money. But if you plan on working and can do so remotely, then van life could be great for you!

Sometimes it is nice to drive deep into the national forest or Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land and find yourself away from other campers in the middle of nowhere. Of course, make sure you have prepared adequately for such an adventure.

But the idea that you can literally go anywhere and be entirely self-sufficient is a sense of freedom in itself. With proper solar panels and battery bank, and an adequate supply of water and fuel, there is no limit to where you can and cannot go.

Van lifers come in all shapes and forms. Some you will like. Others you may not. But most you will find are like-minded and amazing people.

Like you, they started van life for one reason or another and they have a long list of places to go and things to do that you may not have imagined adding to your travel bucket list.

You’ll come across someone in one place and may meet them again in another. Share tips, tricks, and, of course, delicious meals and conversation and your friendship circle expands outward every day!

Van Life Cons

Of course, van life is not all peaches and cream. There are lots of reasons why it may not be right for you. Or, at least, you can prepare for when things are not as you thought they would be. Here are a few of the biggest downsides to van life.

Living in such a small space for long periods of time can take its toll. This is especially true if every time you want to take a shower you have to move ten things here or there.

Or folding out your bed (or putting it away) each day can quickly become a tedious task. Cooking meals in small spaces can also be a challenge, as are washing dishes afterward. While living in a tiny home on the road is nice for all the above reasons, sometimes your tiny space is too tiny.

Depending on how you prefer to travel, you may find that much of your day is spent trying to determine where you can find coffee shops for free WiFi, overnight camping that does not include Walmart parking lots night after night, gas stations, dump stations, water refills and any number of other logistics you don’t have with a brick-and-mortar home.

A few hours spent driving around looking for free camping can take its toll on you when all you want to do is to find a place to sleep for the night.

While the van life community is pretty amazing, there are also the friends and family members you left behind that you will miss in a variety of ways. Whether it’s giving up a weekly happy hour get-together after work or missing major holidays, when you live in a van full time you trade one memory for the next.

But more than the memory is the time spent with other people. You have to be intentional about keeping up with the people you left behind. Because chances are, they are all too busy with their lives to remember that you are off galavanting around the world.

There is nothing more stressful than when your van breaks. Whether it is simply an appliance or hardware inside the van, or something mechanical, maintenance costs and the time spent trying to fix the issues add lots of stress to an otherwise carefree life.

We always say you can never choose when or where you will break down. But at some point, you will break down and not knowing how much money it will cost or who can help you fix the issue can wear you down.

How Much Money Does It Cost Living In A Van?

The answer to this question is incredibly varied. But in general, it costs less to live in a van than it does to live in a traditional brick-and-mortar home. When you combine this with the fact that you will find yourself waking up in incredibly beautiful places from one night to the next, the idea of living in a van will become addictive!

Of course, there are always ways to spend more money if you want. But as we live full-time on the road it is our goal to make our money last as long as possible so we live well but within our means.

To give you an idea of some of the costs to expect, here is a simple breakdown of some of the categories you will want to build into your budget:

• Purchase price
• Administrative fees
• Remodel, Upgrade, build-out
• Health Insurance
• Van insurance
• Cell phone/data plan
• Other medical miscellaneous
• Debt obligations (We encourage you to plan to be debt free!)
• Other personal expenses (mortgage, storage units, etc.)
• Meals (including groceries as well as dining out, alcoholic drinks)
• Fuel (including vehicle as well as other fuel for propane and/or generator, etc.)
• Travel (tolls, parking fees, etc.)
• Fun (Spending and entertainment)
• Repairs and maintenance

Note that one common additional expense is to purchase a Planet Fitness gym membership. With this gym membership you have access to hundreds of gyms across the country where you can work out if you want – but shower if you need!

Some planet fitness locations will also allow overnight parking – but confirm this with each location in advance.

The Best Vans for Van Life

As we already discussed, there are all sorts of vans perfectly suited for van life. And many of them are not even vans, per se. But these are the top types of vans that you are likely to find most common among those of us living in a van.

Cargo vans are the go-to van for van life when it comes to camper van conversion . If you plan on doing a van build then it’s highly likely you’ll want to pick one of the first three vans on the list as these are the most popular, common and easiest to build out to the specs you’d like.

• Mercedes Sprinter Van
• Ram Promaster
• Ford Transit

You will also see a fair number of older mini-vans that have been converted to accommodate living in a van, although with less of the comforts of the larger cargo vans.

• GMC Savanna
• Chevy Express

These are your classic camper van options for living in a van in style. While they don’t have nearly the space of more modern cargo vans, they combine a little of everything you need with the personality and style of the original van lifers.

• Volkswagen Vanagon
• Volkswagen Bus
• Volkswagen Kombi

If you don’t want to go all-in on a typical van, there are other options that will set you up for van life.

• Converted schoolbus “Skoolie”
• Class B RV (already built out in the factory)
• Whatever vehicle you have!

If you are just going on a road trip every now and then, buying a camper van may not be the best idea. Renting one, or looking at other RV options may be best for you.

But if you plan on living in a van for any amount of time then there are all sorts of benefits. Here are a few of the top reasons you should consider buying a camper van .

• Ownership . You have responsibility for your camper van. This means you don’t have to follow rental agreements and you can make modifications however you would like. Got a scratch or dent? No worries.
• Freedom . Along with ownership, you have the ability to go places at your own pace. Take on a drive up the Dalton Highway, where rental vehicles cannot go. Or take your time getting from one place to the next without worrying about having to be somewhere at some time to return the rental camper van.
• Blending in. For some reason, most camper van rental companies put obnoxious graphics all over the van that says “hey look at me, I’m a rental.” And while there is nothing wrong with dipping your toes in the van life, it’s better when your van looks like any ordinary van and blends in wherever you go.
• Everything has its place. If you enjoy living out of a suitcase then you may consider flying to a place and renting a camper van a great idea. In this case, nothing ever really has a home. But when you own your van you find a place for everything. This adds to peace of mind on the road.
• Resale value. While vehicles tend to lose value as soon as you drive off the sales lot, a van conversion tends to hold its value pretty well. This is especially true now that van life is increasingly popular. Many people won’t want to take the time and money to do their own van build. So if you’re looking to sell yours you may find that you can sell it for what you bought it for – or more!

Of course, there are many downsides to van ownership. So you will want to consider a few things before taking the plunge to buy your next tiny home on the road:

• Tedious Shopping. Finding the right van takes time. And you want to make sure that you get the right van at a price you can afford. There is a huge difference between purchasing the first van that comes along and purchasing the right one for living in a van full time. With a rental, you just click a few buttons on the computer, slap down a credit card and pick up the keys. But ownership takes time in searching for the right one.
• Paperwork . Like any vehicle purchase, van ownership is a process. From ensuring the previous owner clears their liens, to transferring title and registration and insuring the vehicle in your name, these steps take time and money. Definitely set aside enough money for all of the registration expenses you will encounter.
• Full insurance coverage. When you live in a van full time you will need to have proper insurance on it. It would be a terrible mistake and cost money you likely don’t have to lose to find that your insurance company denied your claim because your van was used as a living space in addition to being a vehicle. You want to be sure you clarify the situation with your insurance company so there is no miscommunication if you ever have to file a claim.

If you are handy, or you want to learn to be, doing your own van build is a great way not only to save money in not purchasing one already built out, but also to literally know the ins and outs of your van.

We can’t tell you the number of times something went wrong in one of our RVs. In our first years on the road, we had no idea how the RV was built, so we just took a few stabs in the dark or had to pay someone to fix the issue.

But as we became handier, we learned to remodel RVs and with a van build you do yourself you’ll know where to look and what to do when things go wrong.

On the positive side of things, a DIY van conversion is also a great way to customize your camper van to include all of the appliances you want in the spaces that you want them.

If you are wondering how much money it costs to do a custom van build, this will vary. But you’ll find it will likely be well under the cost of purchasing a van already fit for the road.

Ultimately you need to familiarize yourself with every part of your van. But as you plan your build you should have an understanding of these key components:

• Solar Panels
• Shower options
• Sink and faucets
• Heater / Furnace
• Lighting options
• Refrigerator
• Stove and Oven
• Rooftop Vent Fans

You will also want to consider finding space in your build for common appliances and accessories such as:

• Bed options and builds
• Coffee Makers
• Air compressors

When it comes to your build, the most important thing is to know that your tiny home must accommodate you and everything you think you will want or need for life on the road.

Before committing to a van conversion, it’s a great idea to live in a van for a few days or weeks under different circumstances. This is a great time to rent a van to get an idea of what you want to do with such limited space.

Or if you know anyone with a van who would be willing to let you take it out for a long weekend – you’ll quickly learn the things you like or don’t like.

Of course, you’ll also want to read a blog post (or 100!) and spend time checking out Instagram and YouTube to get all of the best ideas on what you want and will need to do to complete your campervan build.

But whether you have any experience or not in working with your hands, a campervan conversion is totally doable if that’s the route you want to take!

READ NEXT: If you’re thinking about converting your own van, be sure to check out our comprehensive Van Build Planning Guide!

Campervan Parking

Perhaps one of the most controversial topics in van life is the idea of overnight parking. Vans parked on the side of the street in a big city, or in front of a house in a quiet neighborhood have created a negative connotation that everyone living in a van lacks consideration.

The reality is, while sometimes living in a van calls for “stealth camping,” most of the time there is ample overnight parking in a wide range of camp spots. We have a few mobile apps we’ll cover shortly that help with this.

But in general, these are the kinds of overnight parking you will want to be aware of as you transition into van life:

Free camping is the best kind of camping in our opinion as one of the tenants of living in a van is saving money. These are some of the best free camping options you’ll find as you travel from the east coast to the west coast and everywhere in between:

Note: Each of these is dependent upon the governance of local laws so don’t assume that it is an absolute guarantee that you can park overnight. Check with the local laws (which are usually indicated on the signs in the parking lot and/or on mobile app reviews) to ensure you are following proper camping guidelines.

• Public Lands (Bureau of Land Management, National Forests, Wildlife Management Areas)
• Walmart parking lots
• Hardware store chains (Lowes and Home Depot)
• Other retailers (Cracker Barrel is our favorite, but also Cabelas, Bass Pro and Camping World)
• Casinos (Sometimes requiring spending money in the casino, oftentimes not)
• Rest Stops and Truck Stops
• Gas Stations (Mostly those that cater to trucks, such as Flying J and Loves)
• Stealth camping (normally not overnight parking spots such as trailheads, grocery store or coffee shop parking lots and street parking in neighborhoods)

There is nothing wrong with paying to park overnight. In fact, we combine free camping with paid camping particularly when we’re looking for a nice hot shower, a place to do laundry and to give our solar panels a break.

These paid options offer camp spots at various expenses, so budget accordingly. Also, know that just because you are paying for camping does not mean that you will have the ability to have a full hookup. You may find yourself “dry camping” – basically paying for access to boondock.

But usually, these options are in beautiful national parks or where you have access to various amenities.

• National Parks and State Park Campgrounds
• RV Park and campground
• Some public lands
• Private property via camping memberships (see below)

A great way to find free camping is by joining several camping memberships that will allow you access to overnight parking on private property or in discounted campgrounds.

Note that not all campsites listed in each membership are open to vans. Some require that you are fully self-contained – meaning you have your own plumbed toilet, shower and interior kitchen.

• Harvest Hosts – Our favorite! Harvest Hosts allows you to camp at farms, wineries, distilleries and many other non-traditional venues overnight. Not only do you get a place to camp, but usually there are fun things to do or delicious products to buy to support the local business.
• Boondockers Welcome – This is a great way to connect with fellow travelers as these properties are private owners who open their driveways to campers for overnight parking. Sometimes there are power and water hookups available. But at the least, you’ll get a free place to camp and likely some great conversation.
• Passport America – If you’re looking for a discounted RV park in a pinch, Passport America allows you 50% off camping rates at participating campgrounds. Be sure to read the fine print on the terms for each campground. But we stay at these campgrounds regularly when we decide to splurge on paid camping.
• GoodSam – GoodSam offers a 10% discount on camping at its participating RV parks. While that’s usually not significant, there are also other perks and discounts that come in handy when you are a member.

Living In A Van – The Practical Details

Now that you have an idea of the general idea of what van life is all about before you race off to buy a Sprinter van to build out be sure you have an idea of some of the practical details of what it is like living in a van.

There are lots of ways that you can save money while living in a van. Here are some of our top tips for saving money on the road:

• Cook your own meals (go out infrequently)
• Camp for free as often as possible (lots of beautiful places for this too!)
• Enjoy free outdoor activities (hiking, biking, SUP, and kayaking are all free to do!)
• Travel slow (saves fuel, which is a huge expense)

Van Life Tips

In addition to saving money, here are a few of our top van life tips to make life on the road safer, more convenient and more enjoyable:

From having the proper safety equipment and tools in the event of a breakdown or emergency to owning items that serve multiple purposes, the right gear makes all the difference when living in a van.

There’s always room for toys – like surfboards, SUPs, kayaks and bikes. But make sure you have the essentials and know how to use them if necessary.

You likely know when something isn’t right inside your body. The longer you live in a van the more accustomed you will become to the sounds (or lack thereof), lights and other indicators that something may be off.

Knowing the basics of how to fix things is great. But if you’ve built your van then you are in even better shape when it comes to troubleshooting and solving issues on the road – mechanical or otherwise.

Staying healthy on the road is difficult. But it is super important. The best way to do this is to cook your own meals (healthy, not Ramen every day!) and to find outdoor activities you enjoy.

If you’re busy hiking 5 miles a day, paddling rivers or lakes or climbing hills on your mountain bike the chances of getting out of shape are slim (pun intended!). But many people living in a van neglect their health and this can cause long-term effects you don’t want to deal with later in life.

Nobody likes a mess. OK, some people likely do. But when your living space is so small you need to set aside time to take care of the mess on occasion. Whether that is once per day, or once per week is up to you and your preferences.

Having a small vacuum helps out tremendously, especially if you own pets. But just keeping up with dirty dishes and shaking out a throw rug can be enough to keep your tiny home comfortable.

It is tempting to imagine yourself needing everything you once owned in a brick-and-mortar home. But the reality is, we often wear the same clothes two or three days in a row. We wash the same 2 forks, spoons and plates daily.

And there’s no reason to haul our old collection of DVDs around anymore with all the great streaming services. Pack light. If you find you need something you can always buy it later. But we find we typically jettison more than we pick up along the way.

Van life apps will save you time and money in the long haul. Whether searching for free overnight camping, a library or a coffee shop that offers free wifi, shower facilities or a place to fill up on water or propane, these apps are designed by people who know what we need when living in a van on the road. We’ll cover a few of our favorites below.

This should be our biggest van life tip. Without a budget, you are lost. Most of us have limited financial resources on the road. So whether you work remotely and are trying to save money living in a van or are in a gap year or retirement and have a little extra to spend, keep track of your money and it will take care of you along the way.

There are always ways to cut corners if you ever do find yourself at a time when you’d like to splurge on a unique experience. But don’t live in the excess or you’ll find yourself selling your van before too long!

Most van dwellers enjoy cooking meals in places that overlook incredible sunrises or sunsets. And when you’re budget-savvy you’ll find all sorts of ways to save money on the road.

But every now and then you’ll want to splurge on something just to shake things up a little.

For example, we like to joke that anytime we splurge on a bundle of (expensive!) firewood we’re calling it “date night!” Whatever you enjoy, splurge on it from time to time to make the most of van life on the road!

Along with our top tips, here are a few of our top van life hacks that will make life on the road more enjoyable.

• Invest in a good power setup. This includes great batteries, solid solar panels and a powerful enough inverter to keep you powered up as much as you need.
• Have 12 volt everything. Lights, fans, television… the list goes on of what you can find to accessorize your camper van in 12 volts. Since this is your primary power on the road the less dependent you become on 110v electrical outlets the better off you will be.
• Install magnetic spice/knife racks. Not only can you hang spices or knives in a sturdy place, but also you can use these to keep track of virtually anything metallic – from keys to tools and so forth.
• Own a multi-port USB charger. Most small devices can be charged off a single multi-port charger and it will save you from having things plugged in everywhere.
• Invest in a cellular booster. If you work on the road this is essential. But even if you just want to have an additional safety feature to ensure you can get cellular signal in more remote places, a cellular booster is a great way to achieve peace of mind.
• Buy collapsible everything. From cups and bowls to pasta strainers and dish bins, you can find all sorts of great collapsible gear that folds up out of the way when you don’t need it.
• Install a magnetic mosquito net on your doorway. This will not only keep most pesky bugs away, but also it will not obstruct your views too much. The tradeoff is worth it when you consider the value of sleeping without the sound of mosquitos buzzing around your head!
• Consider a gym membership at Planet Fitness . There are hundreds of locations around the country where you can access free hot showers (and workout if you like!) for around $25/month. Some even offer access to massage chairs and aqua therapy too!

READ NEXT: Be sure to check out our post on all the best campervan hacks!

Van Life With A Partner

Well, this is a big topic. But if you and your partner are already interested in living in a van then that is the first step! There is nothing more incredible in life than sharing unique experiences with someone you love.

But van life can be difficult for couples in particular because your living space is cut in half and your decision-making is doubled.

Still, we find that we would choose no other life than one on the road where we can spend time enjoying beautiful scenery, exploring amazing places and living a simple life we both enjoy.

Here are a few of our top tips on how to prepare for and live in a van together with your partner:

If you can’t be kind to your partner then you need to reconsider your relationship. But life on the road can be stressful.

So kindness isn’t always the first thing to come to mind when you’re broken down, the camper van is a mess or you’ve been sleep deprived because it’s so cold/hot/windy outside the past few nights.

Still, take the time to think about how you feel about the other person and put them first and everything else will work out better for it.

This seems easier to say than do. But whenever any decision comes up, long before it needs to be made, communicate. And even if it is not a decision, but maybe an emotion or a bad (or good!) day, communicate.

We live in such close quarters that you’d think there were no secrets between us. But the reality is, there are still things taking place in our hearts and minds that need to be communicated.

Do so regularly and you’ll appreciate living in a van more.

When you are around your partner 24/7 it is easy to forget to compliment them. Some things become routine – like cooking meals, washing dishes or long and stressful drive days.

But if you take the time to tell your partner how much you appreciate them for what they’ve done, or remind them why you love them in the first place, then time on the road will become that much more special.

It would be nice to think that you can go a day, week, month or year without arguing. But the reality is that it will happen sometime. If you focus on the first few points above, then when the argument comes it should be short and not cause harm to your relationship.

Always make up, even if it’s after you or your partner needs to get out of the van for a while to clear your mind. Never fall asleep upset.

Whether sharing the chores or fixing a breakdown, working together with your partner is the best way to get through life on the road.

Van life has its share of challenges for any person. But if you are choosing to go into the situation as a couple, then be mindful that you can and should work together in everything you experience on the road.

Read Next: Check out our post on our best tips for living in a van with a partner!

Mobile apps make van life so much easier than ever before! Whether you need to find a place to camp for the night, a hot shower, a good hike or the most affordable fuel in the area there are apps to help you navigate van life.

These are a few of our favorite van life apps that we use on nearly a daily basis:

• Campendium – Reliable and reputable source of camping sites that you can filter to show you RV camping or free or nearly free public lands. We use this app every day we are on the road.
• iOverlander – The gold standard for overlanders, particularly those living in a van on their way to South America. This app is user-generated and thus has less repute than Campendium. But you can find lots of gems on iOverlander from other van dwellers, as well as lots of amenities such as coffee shops, propane, water, dump, mechanics and so forth.
• GasBuddy – This is the best way to find the cheapest fuel around. Simply look on the map along your route and find the fuel that best fits your budget and fuel range. We use this app every day we drive and never pay more for fuel than we have to.
• AllTrails – A great way to find hikes wherever you are. This app also has a tracking feature to allow you to see where you are going and, more importantly, to make sure you never get lost. Check out reviews and images of the hike before you go and be aware of the level of difficulty you are encountering along the way.
• AllStays – This is a great backup app that combines the kind of information you find on Campendium and iOverlander. It is particularly useful for locating rest stops and travel centers, and can also be filtered to show less frequently searched for camping.

READ NEXT: Want to know about more useful van life apps? Check out our post on the top van life apps for your van lifestyle!

Living in a van is not for everyone. But if you’ve been intrigued enough by the idea of van life to consider pursuing this lifestyle then we hope we’ve been able to provide you with all sorts of great information to help you transition into van life.

Of course, if we left anything off or if you have any questions please feel free to leave us a comment and we’ll update this post accordingly!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Talking about DIY conversion – you can use a van conversion kit to speed up the process and get something more professional. There are different kits with different layouts and you can find something that will work for you. Yes, it will be more expensive. And you may need some help to install them. But if time and quality is more important, defiantly worth to explore all the available options on the market

I agree that having complete independence and being able to travel anyplace is in and of itself a sense of freedom. I also appreciate your advice that there are no restrictions on where you may travel as long as you have enough gasoline and water, good solar panels, and a battery bank. This reminds me: my big road trip is coming up next month, and I’ve been getting my camper van ready for the journey. It has just come to my attention that the inside is very heated due to the sunshine coming through the windows during the day. Keeping a cozy living area is important to me, especially on pauses and overnight stays, thus I’ve decided to hunt for premium camper van window coverings.

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Home » Budget Travel » How to Live in a Van and Travel: Freedom, Vanlife, and the 21st Century Nomad

How to Live in a Van and Travel: Freedom, Vanlife, and the 21st Century Nomad

Excuse me, sir, ma’am, do you have a second to talk about freedom?

That’s why we travel, right? Sure, maybe it starts as an escape. Maybe your ex trashed you so you ran away from all those delicious problems (don’t feel bad; it’s a common story).

Maybe the looming threat of your tertiary education commitments was rearing its ugly head so you decided to delay.

Maybe you wanted to  ‘find yourself’ .

Whatever your reasons, the outcome was the same. You left… And then you caught the bug.

Now that I know how to be free, how can I choose to put myself back in the cage?

Excuse me, sir, ma’am do you have a second to talk about van life?

There’s something pure about van travel. You’ll have to peel back the layers first: the trashy Instagram hashtags. The ‘polyamorous’ douchebags competing for level-10 gipsy status to sleep with cute hippy chicks at psytrance festivals.

Peel that shit back first and what do you find? Freedom: a sincere desire to simply live freely. Travelling in a van, or any form of motorhome for that matter, is not a lifestyle: it’s an answer.

Less is more.

So let’s talk about that. Let’s talk about why you should live AND travel in a van.

Let’s talks about the ins and outs of travelling in a motorhome: a beginner’s tips and hacks guide for campervan travel. And let’s talk about travelling the world in a campervan: the best countries to go and how to acquire your new roots-less home.

We’re talking van life.

Vanlife: Let’s Paint a Picture of the Van Travel Lifestyle

How to live in a van and travel, the best countries for rv and campervan travel, vanlife tips 101: your beginner’s rv and campervan travel guide, freedom, vanlife and the 21st century nomad.

Right, so that was soppy – sorry, folks! Here’s the deal: it’s a house on wheels. Let me reiterate that for you.

It’s a house on wheels.

Yeah sure, it may not be a very big house. But, look, if your biggest concern is not being able to take much stuff, then, mate… the traveller lifestyle might not be for you.

Let’s call it nomadic van living (just to separate it from actual nomadic living in which if you didn’t move, then winter came and you died). Living out of a van means living out of a home with wheels. Think about that for a sec.

If you run out of milk, you don’t have to leave the house to buy milk. You take the house WITH YOU to buy milk.

That’s fucking sick.

There’s a new level of freedom that comes from travelling the country in an RV , campervan, or even one of the cars with the fold-out tents on the roof (they’re awesome; I’ve seen JUCY rentals in New Zealand and Australia do them). Do you know what a common thought for me is while staring out the window on a bus ride? “That’s a nice mountain; I wish I could go climb it.” 

Ta-dah! Traveller vans to the rescue.

And, to be a little bit real for a second, I do think it’s an answer. We’re in a time where we are – possibly, hopefully, maybe – starting to look at the traditional model of ‘How to Adult – 101’ and saying…

Maybe, there’s another way. Maybe we don’t need all the things we thought we did.

I’d say it’s an experiment. You travel in a van, living in a motorhome, and you have an adventure. One way or another, you come away with a new perspective. And, if you’re built for it, maybe you come away with a whole new model for life.

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Why Travel and Live in a Van or RV

Let’s talk specifics, not quasi-philosophical ramblings. What are the benefits of travelling in a van or RV?

I mean, there’s the ease of buying groceries, obviously, but there’s more to motorhome travel than just that:

• There’s the obvious financial benefit. Your mileage (hah) will vary depending on your style. A family of four living and travelling in a full-power RV and staying at powered holiday parks are going to have a very different cost-footprint than two dirtbags travelling in a van and staying in the driveway of someone called Possum Joe. But, you can’t say rolling your transport and accommodation costs into one while cooking for yourself doesn’t help!
• You can go anywhere! Unless the road ends in which case you get out and walk. Campervan travel changes the landscape of your adventure, but I’ll save that for when I talk about the best countries to campervan in further down.
• You can pick up hitchhikers! Ahh, thank you, much appreciated! My people thank you in advance.
• There is, of course, the art of minimalism. How low you go is up to you: packing for living in an RV vs. a van vs. a hatchback Prius all offer different lifestyles. But it’s a middle-point between having what fits in your house and having what fits on your back.
• It offers freedom of movement. That’s why I call it nomadic van living. It’s like the next evolution up from nomadic horse living on the tech-tree-of-life. Stay, go, settle, cross the country; it’s all your choice. The only difference is that motorhomes break down. But, then, horses die…
• And, of course, it allows you to shift to a more nomadic lifestyle . At a certain point, travelling in a van becomes synonymous with living in a van…

Living in a Van: From Part-Time to Full-Time

This is what I’m talking about: what starts as toes dipped in the water of motorhome travel turns into the full immersion of motorhome living. You start off travelling in an RV or campervan around Australia or New Zealand and suddenly you’re reexamining your whole model of life. Suddenly, living out of a van doesn’t seem like such an alien concept.

You start looking at your life. Maybe I don’t need so many possessions. Maybe I don’t need the weekly depression of rent day.

Suddenly, yes, van life is worth it.

Your career aspirations change; you’ve realised just how many jobs can be done while travelling and living in a campervan. How much freedom is open to you when your cost of living has drastically reduced and your office can be any old breathtaking view.

And, suddenly, you’ve become a digital nomad .

Now, a deep-dive into the digital nomad lifestyle is a whole other can of worms and it’s not really my point either. My point is simply that these things tend to go way further and way deeper than we can often imagine. And that many people have created a sustainable (and fulfilling) life model around living in a van or RV full-time and earning money as they travel.

But that’s long term! Don’t get ahead of yourself, buddy. The digital nomad path changes your travel game , so take your time! Patience is good!

First, you need to get out there and experiment with motorhome travel! You need to see if it’s your holy grail. You need to dip your toes in and that means choosing and acquiring your traveller van.

Ok, so I’ve convinced you, yeah? On the awesomeness of van life? Not pressured, mind you; you’re still in control here. I don’t want to talk you into doing anything you don’t want to do…

But, you’re ready: ready for the adventure of travelling the world in a campervan – the full-time RV lifestyle! You’re ready to start thinking about buying your first campervan.

Whoa, Nelly! Slow down there, sexy-legs! I know you’re excited but even buying the cheapest of campervans is a big and expensive commitment for a lifestyle you don’t know if you’re ready for yet. Jumping in feet-first is commendable but jumping in head-first into an unknown body of water is just bloody stupid!

Let’s start small with finding the right van to travel in so you can decide if van life is worth it for you. Then, if it’s everything you’ve dreamed of (psst, it will be) , you can make the shift to living in a campervan permanently.

So, step 1: finding the right type of motorhome for you. I stress the word motorhome because, as you may have noticed, you have a wide range of options and the different terms get thrown around somewhat interchangeably.

Types of Motorhomes

Think of choosing your motorhome like choosing a travel buddy . If you choose well, the vibe is good and you’ll have a long grand adventure together with lifelong cherished memories. But choose poorly and you’ll end up ditching them on the side of the road and hitchhiking in the opposite direction.

Choosing a Van for Travel: How to Find the Best Motorhome for You

Well, what are your needs? What are your likes and dislikes? How good are you at reversing?

These are the important questions you must ask yourself! (Especially that last one.) The number one tip for van living is that it’s gotta feel like home.

• Travel camper trailers, for a start, have no appeal to me. Lugging a trailer around everywhere in my journeys is unwieldy. But for someone who doesn’t want to make a full-time lifestyle commitment to RV or campervan travel, a camper trailer means you get to still have a car and a home and you can just park the thing in your yard when you’re not off adventuring.
• A converted travel van is the DIY option for the DIY mindset. Seriously, I’ve watched friends go to town on their DIY van conversion and it’s a marvel to behold – a power tool in one hand and WikiHow in the other. If full-time van life is something you ultimately commit to, I feel this the best option because you’re in control; who needs a loving committed relationship and a beautiful family to raise when you have a van! Backpackers in Australia and New Zealand often invest in buying a cheap van at the beginning of a year-long work visa, but for shorter trips, budget campervan hire tends to be a much smarter route.
• Class C Motorhomes (RVs) provide more luxury; let’s call it the family meal deal. RV travel offers more creature comforts at the cost of higher living expenses making it the top choice with families and grey nomads. But, if your travelling with a big group or just have a soft spot for the luxury road trip experience, an RV rental might just be right up your alley.
• Class B Motorhomes (campervans) are the bang-on choice for travellers fresh to the van travel game. Not too big; not too small: just right (just like a certain narcissistic little blonde girl’s porridge). For someone looking to dip their toes into van camping and see if this whole vanlife thing stacks up to the hype, this is the sweet spot!
• Class A Motorhome (monstrosities) are reserved for when you’re 70-years-old, greying, and have nothing but time, disposable income, and a loving life partner you want to bang all over the continent.

But, that leaves one last question: how do you acquire your new transient home?

Rent or Buy – Travel Van Rental: The Advantages of Campervan Hire

Ok, so let’s level with each other: buying a motorhome is expensive! The outright cost is enough to make any broke backpacker curl into the foetal position on the floor and that’s before you add in the insurance and registration costs plus the rising fuel prices in an ever-increasingly unstable global community. 

You’d be better of buying a station wagon and crashing at your mum’s house on laundry/shower day, though, I feel that sorta defeats the purpose of the fully independent, ‘fuck the man’ nomadic van-living lifestyle.

Here’s van living tip number two: don’t buy a motorhome until you know that it’s right for you. I’m talking about using campervan hire as your jumping-off point.

There are a lot of ways to travel a country, but I’d imagine we all have a soft spot for having our own vehicle. And, truthfully, a campervan is simply a better way to travel some countries (looking at you, New Zealand) .

Sometimes, public transport sucks; sometimes we want to go far out. And, sometimes, we don’t want to pay 50 bucks for what amounts to 12-hour bag storage and mattress rental (with complimentary white bread for breakfast).

The Great Australian Road Trip is a dream journey of many travellers I meet (I’m not sure why; I don’t think you realise how boring our roads are – long, straight, and filled with dead things). Plus, road trips are SICK! Talking shit with your mates, good tunes, smoking – ahem – “ciggies” at isolated lookouts (wink-wink): road trips are the best!

It doesn’t mean that one day you won’t have the holy grail converted traveller van, but the best way to start that big journey is with a little step. Hire a motorhome, have an adventure in any of the best countries to campervan in, and once you know how to actually live in a van and travel, you’ll know if the vanlife is right for you.

If you’re after my recommendation, for New Zealand and Australia road trips, JUCY rentals are the best. These iconic whips are the perfect home on the road to explore the roads of down under.

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

You’re going to notice a common theme with most of the countries on this van travel bucket list: they’re costly to travel with plenty of ground to cover.  

That’s why by choosing to travel in a cheap van or RV rental, you’re going to please the tight-fisted pantheon deities of Backpakistan. Now, don’t misunderstand – you’re not going to cut your travel expenses in Europe down to the level of Southeast Asia. But taking all our usual tricks-of-the-trade backpacker secrets and applying them while living out of a van certainly helps.

The other recurring theme? They have wicked roads to drive on! Picturesque and long and fast (and sometimes windy too).

You’re still on an adventure. Spend some money, live a little! You know that 2000-year-old tree in the middle of buttfuck-nowhere… you have a house with wheels now! Go see it!

Again, you’re driving a campervan. You’re in control.

We are freedom.

Australia RV and Campervan Travel: Whole Lotta Nothin’

Ok, so there is actually a lot to see in Australia. From travelling Australia’s east coast – tropics, beaches, and seagulls – to the rugged solitude of the west, it’s fair to say that you’ll find something you vibe with amongst Australia’s massive scope.

And if you get down to Tassie, that shit will blow your mind right open. Seriously – backpacking in Tasmania is an experience simply built for van travel.

Only, Australia is big. And the roads are really long and really straight (and really empty). Notice how you never meet anyone who says they circumnavigated Australia twice?

Australia is so big, and there’s such a campervan culture Down Under with backpackers and locals, that vans are being bought, sold, and traded for weed all the time; buying a van outright is perfectly a viable option. Of course, the thing about buying a backpacker van is that one minute everything is hunky-dory, and then the next your broken down in the middle of the Nullarbor Plain with black smoke spewing from both ends (of the van… not you… if you are too, see a doctor).

Travelling around Australia in a motorhome is THE way to go. Travelling and living in a campervan is a good antidote to the high prices of… everything… and, given the country’s lacklustre public transport services, is also the best way to see everything . 

Of course, you can – and should for trips on a shorter itinerary – go for a budget campervan hire in Australia. Skip the bureaucracy, skip the queue, and, best of all, skip stamp duty <groans internally>. (Our insurance and rego costs are daylight robbery too – fair warning.) All this leaves a rental as the smoothest option for entry into Oz’s untold vastness.

So… what’s the best campervan hire in Australia? Easy, JUCY Campers .

JUCY Campers Australia have been around serving backpackers for a long-long time, so they know their clientele and they know them well . Even while growing up in Byron Bay almost twenty years ago, I remember seeing scores of JUCY campervans parked at the beach. Usually, with some happy-go-lucky, not-a-care-in-the-world bangin’ their lack-of-woes away in the backseat.

They do cheap campervan hire in Australia, and they’ve been around for more than two decades. They gotta be doing something right!

New Zealand RV and Campervan Travel: The Real Aotearoa

It’s fairly comparable to campervan travel in Australia but with less roadside drug testing. And you can cross the country in about eight fewer days. Oh, and petrol is more expensive!

Everything aside, road tripping in New Zealand – and road tripping on South Island in particular – is FUCKING MINDBLOWING. Like, ‘I’m having a transcendental moment just from watching a sunset’ mindblowing. There’s so much to explore in every tucked-away corner, and then you cross the ferry to South Island and New Zealand is all like:  Welcome to New Game Plus, Bi-yatch. 😉

Public transport is meh and hitchhiking is traditionally the gold standard for getting around, but to truly get lost in Aotearoa (The Land of the Long White Cloud), driving a campervan is the way to go. It’s kind of hard to put into words the true majesty of traversing New Zealand’s natural landscape. Can we just say that it did things to my soul and leave it at that?

So, what about cheap campervan hire in New Zealand? Well, you’ve got JUCY Campers New Zealand (yes, same guys obviously) who are also probably the best campervan hire in New Zealand. Seriously, I can’t stress JUCY Campers enough for budget campervans in New Zealand and Australia. RVs, mini-campers, minibuses too – they know they’re way around!

Be careful, though: if you start living in a campervan in New Zealand, you may just decide that it’s finally time to hang up your boots. New Zealand is where people stop travelling.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

Japan RV and Campervan Travel: Ore No Daibouken!

Once upon a time, this may have been considered a weird entry on this list. Maybe, it still surprises you.

It’s not that your transport options for travelling around Japan aren’t excellent (because they are, albeit expensive), but a road trip in Japan by campervan is still an amazing way to see the country, and there’s loads to see! Once you’ve broken off the main roads into the mountains, forests, and villages, you’ll see why.

The downside to campervan travel in Japan is that petrol is pricey and the tolls on expressways (the country’s primary road infrastructure) are a nightmare. The upshot is living off home-cooked tofu stirfry is ridiculously cheap and the Japanese are some of the most patient and courteous drivers you will ever encounter.

So what about campervan hire in Japan? I mean, you could buy one outright but somehow I imagine that could get confusing…

Well, guess what? For campervan rental in Japan, you’ve got Japan Campers . Easy name, easy game!

If you’re thinking you’d like to partake in a road trip somewhere other than the standard destinations, I would highly suggest going for a Japanese campervan journey. Japan is still fairly unused to nomadic van living so you can get away with a few more sneaky overnight parks than you would elsewhere and if you want to travel off the beaten track – Shikoku or most definitely Hokkaido is the place to go for vanning – then you’ll be a fan of a van in Japan… man.

USA RV and Campervan Travel: The Good, the Bad, and the Not-So-Ugly

I mean, there are fifty states all up so road tripping the USA by campervan is a pretty damn good way of seeing them all! (Although Alaska and Hawaii may take some tricky planning to reach.)

Look, here’s a picture of the American wilderness:

Now does a campervan road trip in the USA make sense? The American landscape is so majestic that even just seeing an old Spaghetti Western gives me them wanderlust vibes – and that is a term that I loathe and do not use lightly!

So, let’s talk campervan hire in the USA! I mean… you could buy one off of Craigslist, but you might get shot.

For cheap campervan and RV rental in the USA, check out Outdoorsy . It’s another takeoff in the sharing economy; you’re renting motorhomes of actual humans with actual thoughts and feelings and lives.

I gotta be honest: that’s seriously dope. Think Airbnb for the vanlife.

For budget campervan rental in the USA, Outdoorsy is the go. Then you can go and have your own 21st-century Spaghetti Western!

Oh, plus there’s all that legendary rock climbing in the States. You want a van for that shit.

• Driving the West Coast (Road Trip Planner)
• RV Renter’s Guide: Las Vegas
• Driving the East Coast (Road Trip Planner)
• RV Renter’s Guide: California

Canada RV and Campervan Travel: A Little Drive Aboot

To the north of the States is another big-ass country filled with gorgeous nature and lovely people who get weirdly offended whenever I drop the C-bomb. Cultural differences aside, Canada makes the list of the essential ‘Great Roadtrip’ countries.

The RV and campervan game in Canada is strong . It might have something to do with the expansive wilderness simply built for vanlife. Well, it would be fairer to say that vanlife was built for the expansive Canadian wilderness.

Anyway, forget the split hairs! A backpacking adventure in Canadian is supreme and by way of campervan is the best way to truly get lost there. But you’re getting quite far north. By which I mean, it’s getting cold. You’ll want to get the best travel van you can (with some damn proper insulation).

Outdoorsy , once again, is the top pick for cheap campervan and RV rental in Canada. It’s all about that sharing economy! Cheap, good services, and you’re dealing with REAL people rather than a dealership with a salesperson with a 5-syllable last name that has way too many ‘K’s in it.

Find yourself a budget campervan to hire in Canada (ideally with good insulation) and go find a moose! Why a moose? I dunno, I’ve just always wanted to see a wild moose!

Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan RV and Campervan Travel: Meet Stan

See, told you I’d give you some interesting choices! Have you heard of the Pamir Highway? Probably not… I hadn’t either until one of my fellow Broke Backpacker Adventure Experts told me it was the perfect place for a non-standard campervan road trip.

And he’s right! The Pamir Highway is gorgeous! Officially it’s called the M41 Highway (but nobody calls it that) and it runs from the city of Osh in Kyrgyzstan down into and through Tajikistan . Hell, if you’re feeling super adventurous, you can keep driving it into Uzbekistan and Afghanistan !

In all honesty, the scope of Central Asia is breathtaking. Exploring Kyrgyzstan alone is something out of a dream, and that’s just one of the Stans! It’s huge, there is so much space, and it is still vastly untouched by the hand of western tourism. If you’re looking for a van life adventure that really is ‘off the beaten track’, it’s the way to go.

How do you acquire a campervan over that way? Well, you’re outside the scope of most of the standard budget campervan hire services but you still have options. One of the highly recommended options is Iron Horse Nomads in Kyrgyzstan. Owned and run by a couple of ex-pats, these guys can get you sorted for transport around the Stans.

Or you could just charge it: catch a flight over and hope for the best. Worst case scenario, you just buy a horse!

Europe RV and Campervan Travel: Home of the Autobahn

“Europe isn’t a country!”   Shut-up, dude; nobody cares. It still counts.

An RV or campervan in Europe goes a long way towards getting you around; there is a lot to see there. Backpacking around Europe is also expensive as all hell (on the west side), so travelling in a motorhome is also going to go a long way towards keeping your budget in check.

The cool thing about a campervan road trip in Europe is all the countries you’ll visit! By the time you’re done, you’re reasonably looking at 5 to 10 different countries (at least).

That’s a lot of unique cultures, languages, landscapes, and… food! All those accommodation cost savings? Yeah, just put them towards eating your way across Europe!

So, what are your options for cheap campervan and RV hire in Europe? Well, there’s CamperTravel Bookings . They have great coverage right across Europe (in case you forgot, there are a lot of different places in Europe) and they’re cheap with lots of different rental options.

Europe is a bit of a funny one for van travel. When it comes to the idealised road trip, it often gets left behind. But with such great options for budget campervan and RV rental in Europe, it’s becoming a more sought-after destination.

Plus, the roads, man! So big, so fast, so furious, and so damn pretty! Arrgghh, vanlife, YES!

Sort out your rental before you’re living the vanlife DREAM. To get the best price, rentalcars.com simplifies the process at a lower cost and can match you with the right vehicle for your adventure.

So, it’s as simple as finding the best van for your new van life and you’re away, right? With that sort of simplicity, you could be living and sleeping in a campervan within a week. Nay, good sir! Campervan life requires more finesse than that.

Do you remember how the first time you left on a backpacking adventure you packed like a dickhead? But then, you repeated the process and, every time, you got better. The question of what to take on a road trip and even how to live and travel in a van is the same.

It’s all about practice.

You’re starting out – be it your first budget RV rental or your first converted traveller van purchase – and that makes you a beginner. That’s fine though, that means you’re only going to get better: it’s all practice!

And besides, you’ve nabbed yourself a campervan and RV travel guide 101 filled with tips for beginners. Let’s talk finesse!

The RV Travel Lifestyle: What to Expect from Travelling in a Motorhome

Before I give you the bullet point list of deliciously digestible tips, let’s talk about the actual ins and outs of the campervan and RV lifestyle. Whether you’re going on your first great campervan road trip or experimenting with living in an RV full-time, it’s not all just about freedom and good shots for your socials.

First up, there’s adulting. There’s always adulting. Just because you’re living out of a van doesn’t mean you’re not an adult!

Chores are a big part of van life. You know how when you live in a really small flat even not washing the dishes kills those rocking feng-shui vibes? Well, it’s the same deal in a van only multiplied by fifty: it’s a small space.

Kitchen cleanup, sweeping out the dirt, changing the greywater, making your bed… don’t forget to brush your teeth too! Living in a campervan permanently still means being a good homemaker. And if it’s travelling and living in an RV, you’ve just doubled up on your chores and maintenance schedule.

That’s another important point to touch on – maintenance and breakdowns. If you’re not a gear-headed person, prepare to learn. Rolling into the mechanic’s every time you hear an odd noise is going to severely hurt your budget. I’ve watched mates brand new to the van living game teach themselves welding, change windows, and play with their vehicle’s electronics all with the assistance of our benevolent overseer Google: that shows a good mind for it.

It’s also worth mentioning cops. Mileage varies depending on how many laws you’re breaking (aim for less than five) but you will always be in closer proximity to the coppers. And – I think it goes without saying – losing your licence is a death sentence to the lifestyle of a vanner.

The idea of pulling over anywhere anytime is super appealing, but it’s also far from always being that easy, especially in urban environments. Overnight parking and sleeping in a campervan is something cracked-down on, especially in our good ol’ friend, the affluent West, though the ferocity of revenue-raising tactics varies by area. It’s sorta case by case and depends on where you are in the world, your type of van, and how smartly you’ve chosen your park-up.

Stealth van living is an acquired art form and something you will gradually get better at over time. Again, it’s about finesse: a bountiful boondock takes a deft approach.

RV and Campervan Hacks for Travelling

Everyone likes a good hack! Here are some practical tips for beginner RV and campervan travel. A few bits to keep you travelling smooth until you’re a vanlife pro!

• Bring tools – Have a solid supply of tools to work with stored somewhere inside your campervan – everything that’s good for an emergency. A well-stocked toolbox , duct tape (definitely), spare fuses – put some effort into your motorhome inventory checklist!
• Van and RV camping apps – There are actually tonnes of these and many that are region-specific. They’ll help you suss out good camping spots to set up your van at from the free park-ups to the ‘ Why am I paying $35 for cold shower and shit-pit usage?’ variety. There are also some wicked RV trip planner apps out there and even apps for budgeting on gas. App up! It helps.
• Utilise 24-hour stores and petrol stations – They can be a really good place for staying overnight in a campervan. Buy some supplies and then ask the attendant if they mind if you hang around until the sun is up. Or don’t ask and just look scary and unapproachable and they’ll probably leave you alone. Face tats help with that.
• And boondock beautifully – Like I said, sneaky parking takes a bit of practice. However, generally, if you’re rocking up somewhere after dark and not planning a lengthy loiter the following morning, she’ll be right. Worst case scenario, just play the “I was falling asleep at the wheel and really needed to pull over for the night,” card: it’s bulletproof
• For the ladies – Get yourself a GoGirl – it makes girls pee like boys! I won’t give you a how-to, but I reckon you can figure it out. Jokes aside, it’s honestly a really important safety tip. The reason animals are so cautious when and where they do their thang is because they’re vulnerable while they do, and it’s the same for people… unless you have face tats.
• Clear storage bins – And for any other containers you use for storage, clear plastic is the way to go. Not having to unpack everything to find what you’re looking for goes a long way when you’re van living.
• Anti-moisture packs – The desiccant ones (of the ‘DO NOT EAT’ variety) that come in just about any sorta packaging and fresh packets of burrito wraps. Use them for keeping away the damp in your campervan’s storage. But, yeah, don’t eat them.
• Grippy rubber mats – Yeah, look, I have no idea what these are called. These ones! Stick them under your plates, cups, condiments, and whatever else so they don’t slide around on the road.
• Always have a headtorch on hand – Hell, have two. Why stop there? Have six! Every traveller needs a headtorch.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

RV and Campervan Travel Tips for Staying Sane and Not Killing Each Other

Practical tips are good but what about mindset tips for van life? If you’re travelling with someone, there’s always the off-chance that you’ll get sick of them off and drive off the next time they’re using a petrol station toilet.

If you’re travelling alone, well, sometimes the hermit’s path can send us a bit loopy:

• Keep structure – The most important part about freedom is not having too much of it; constraints are good. Set an alarm, have a morning routine, write a to-do list; these things go a long way for keeping you focused.
• And don’t sweat the mistakes – You’ll make them, and you’ll make a lot of them. Getting lost, puncturing a tyre, nearly bogging yourself in an ancient forest deep in the primordial wilderness of Tasmania: these things happen.
• Exercise – Similarly, keeping a routine of steady exercise is equally important. Many people like to join a 24-hour gym chain which has the added bonus of shower usage (that’s a van life hack!). That said, if you’ve ever watched a Youtube video on callisthenics, you know that any old park or tree can be a gym!
• Keep a tight ship – A more-or-less no-brainer but take control of your space, keep it clean, and keep the feng shui on-point. I cannot stress JUST HOW MUCH keeping your space organised is necessary. And when you lose things in a van, just assume it’ll show up by itself in six hours times.
• Meet ‘n’ greet – Use the nights you stay at campsites, backpackers, or wherever else to make friends. Socialising is good! It can’t all be a stoic monk-living in a van.
• Take space – For travel buddies and partners, take some damn space from each other sometimes. It’s basic relationshipping 101. It’s totally ok to have days where everything they say and do makes you want to kick them in the shins, but the healthy response is to go for a long walk (up a mountain).
• Bang it out – For every great fight, there must be a great catharsis. For couples on the road , I’m not the best person to give advice. But if we’re talking a platonic travel buddy, maybe just roll a joint on it instead.
• Take the traveller mindset – Always remember to don your traveller hat. “What’s a ‘problem’ ? I only know of  ‘fun challenges’ . That person looks friendly, I’ll ask for help .”

Get Insured Before Embarking on Your Van Travelling Adventure

Oh, so you got some legally mandated vehicular insurance? Well, that’s a good start, but what about some optional insurance for your anatomical features? Your face, your spine, your favourite bits…

You’re going travelling in a van and that means getting travel insurance before you do because, like it or not, things go wrong. And when they do, someone has to pick up the tab. Personally, I’d prefer that someone be a faceless insurance corporation with the cash to spare rather than my mum.

Make sure to get your backpacker insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure! I highly recommend World Nomads, as they’re one of the best travel insurance providers out there.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

History is a funny thing: it works in cycles. Once upon a time, our ancestors walked great distances shepherding their livestock and foraging for food. They followed the sun.

And then, we discovered how nice it is to have a home. You mean I can have a mattress, a flushing toilet, and a kitty-cat? Sign me up!

And now, reality is settling in. Faced with the reality of crushing debt, overwhelming mortgage payments, and storage spaces full of stuff we never use, we once again yearn for the romance of the nomadic life. But things are different now.

Our horses have been replaced with vans, our cooking fires with gas stoves, and our deep-seated fear of the night’s terrors with deep-cycle solar-powered batteries. It’s a new kind of romance, but it’s still an adventure.

To live the minimalist lifestyle and see the world with no roots save the one you’re driving. To do something kick-ass! That’s an adventure.

You know that feeling you get when you’re doing something awesome and ballsy and you’re going your own way? That’s van travel.

Give it a shot. Hire a campervan, or an RV, or a converted ice-cream truck… Hell, build one from scratch! But just give it a damn shot.

Take that first little dip in the water of van life. Then, see if you can go back in the cage.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Ziggy Samuels

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I had been traveling around America with my husband for over 10 years, but now it seems impossible, not just because of the pandemic but because we bought a horse farm in Irvine, CA, and have been spending most of our time here ever since. I literally can’t wait to start traveling again!

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The 27 Best Camper Vans for Your Next Road Trip

A great camper van combines the maneuverability of a passenger car with the comforts of a motorhome. These are the top brands to know.

By Tyler Duffy

Camper vans are the ultimate recreational vehicles. They combine the maneuverability of a passenger car with comforts typically reserved for travel trailers and full-blown motorhomes.

Unfortunately, some of the top camper vans in the world never come to the US. The modern equivalent of the classic VW model , tantalizingly named The California , is only sold in Europe. Meanwhile, only Aussies can snag this badass, off-roading Toyota van with Land Cruiser bits .

But #vanlife is alive and well in the US. Stateside drivers still have dozens of excellent options from major manufacturers and independent builders, alike. Here are 27 to know before your next road trip.

Adventure Wagon

• Location: Portland, OR
• Vans: Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter
• Service: Kits/Installation
• Starting Price: $16,000

Portland-based Adventure Wagon builds modular interior conversion kits for Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit vans. Its kits come with integrated wiring, ventilation and insulation and can be installed in a matter of days by a professional installer or as a DIY project.

• Location: Jackson Center, Ohio
• Vans: Ram ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter
• Starting Price: $147,570

Airstream is an iconic name in camping trailers but the company also offers a range of top-of-the-line vans it calls “touring coaches” — including the Interstate Nineteen, which fits an entire motorhome of conveniences into a 19-foot van. In 2022, Airstream debuted a more affordable model called the Rangeline based on the Ram ProMaster.

Antero Adventure Motors

• Location: Colorado/Dealers
• Service: Conversion
• Starting Price: Contact Dealers

Colorado-based Antero Adventure Motors, formerly known as Summit Adventure Vans, builds off-road-ready adventure vans. The brand currently offers a Longs Peak model van built with the Mercedes Sprinter, while its Pikes Peak is based on the Ford Transit. The brands are off-the-grid ready with 180 watts of solar power and offer full-length L-track insets for customizable floor plans.

Benchmark Vehicles

• Van: Mercedes Sprinter

Oregon-based Benchmark Vehicles promises to build your dream escape vehicle. It dropped Ford Transit conversions to focus on building custom, off-road-ready Mercedes-Benz Sprinter conversions. One unique feature is offering French-made Scopema flip and fold van seats.

Boho Camper Vans

• Location: Tempe, AZ
• Van: Ram ProMaster
• Service: Conversion/Rentals
• Starting Price: ~$41,000 (not including van)

Arizona-based Boho Camper Vans performs conversions of Ram ProMaster vans. The brand is known for its exceptional custom wood interiors. Boho Camper Vans also maintains a rental fleet and sells used vans after one year in service.

Boulder Camper Vans

• Location: Boulder, CO
• Vans: Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit
• Service: Conversions/Rentals
• Starting Price: $100,000

Colorado-based Boulder Camper Vans performs custom Mercedes Sprinter, Ram ProMaster, and Ford Transit conversions — and it also rents its vehicles if you want to give #vanlife a try before buying. Interiors are hand-crafted, and vans can be outfitted for four-season use with heat, air conditioning and insulated piping.

Brooklyn Campervans

• Location: Brooklyn, NY
• Service: Conversions
• Starting Price: $92,000

Brooklyn Campervans is based in — you guessed it — Brooklyn, New York. Its specializes in building what it calls “beautifully designed smart homes” out of Mercedes Sprinter vans. Its offerings feature a wide range of materials and, crucially, indoor showers.

Caravan Outfitter

• Location: Everett, WA
• Vans: Ford Transit Connect, Mercedes Metris, Mercedes Sprinter
• Service: Conversions/Upfits/Rentals
• Starting Price: $49,810 (Free Bird)

Caravan Outfitter brings the spirit of the old Volkswagen Westfalia into modern camper van builds. Its four-seater Freebird model is all-new for 2022 and based on the Ford Transit Connect. The company also does a la carte upfits for Mercedes Sprinter vans, adding features like a pop-top roof and diesel heater.

Colorado Camper Van

• Location: Loveland, CO
• Services: Conversions (Interior and Pop Top)
• Starting Price: Varies

Colorado Camper Van performs custom conversions for a wide range of camper vans. The company specializes in adding pop-top roofs to both camper vans and camping trailers; custom interiors; and 4×4 conversions for Ford vans.

• Location: Newport Beach, CA

Southern California-based El Kapitan builds luxurious camper vans based on short and long-wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter vans specializing in “handcrafted perfection” with metal, hardwoods, fine leather, fabrics and electronics. It offers Story Maker (Sprinter 144 inches) and Dream Weaver (Sprinter 170 inches) conversions with a range of floor plans.

Freedom Vans

• Location: Bellingham, WA
• Starting Price: $40K (van not included)

Washington-based Freedom Vans builds cozy, comfortable and custom Sprinter and Transit conversions, whether you’re looking for a family van or a commercial buildout. The brand specializes in cozy interiors and solar power systems, which can be added to other vans a la carte.

• Location: Oakland, CA
• Starting Price: $45,000

California-based Glampervan specializes in multi-use builds based on the Ram ProMaster that are designed to transition from two-person weekend getaway vehicles to everyday duty as a mobile office or van for hauling gear. The company also offers a stripped-down Core build for those who want to DIY their own van.

Mercedes-Benz

• Location: Stuttgart, Germany
• Van: Mercedes Metris
• Starting Price: ~$70,000

Mercedes-Benz offers a pop-top camper version of its Metris van called the Metris Getaway built by Peace Vans . It seats five, sleeps four, and can be fitted with upgrades like a roof rack, an eight-foot awning, mosquito nets and a pull-out rear kitchen. You can order one through a Mercedes dealership with a full factory warranty.

• Location: Vancouver, Canada
• Starting Price: $120,000-plus (bespoke build)

Vancouver-based Nomad Vans builds custom overland expedition vans based on the Mercedes Sprinter and Ford Transit that are designed to be durable and provide comfortable living in any season. Vans can include custom gear garages, pop-out compartments for extra living space and even custom upholstery.

Oasis Campervans

• Location: Larkspur, CO
• Vans: Minivans
• Starting Price: $8,100

Want a camper based on a minivan instead of a full-size one? Oasis Campervans offers custom minivan conversions for the Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey and Chrysler Pacifica with kitchen, sleeping and storage setups with hardwood finishes. It offers two conversions, Classic and Nomad, the latter aimed at campers on a budget.

Outside Van

Outside Van performs Mercedes Sprinter-based conversion vans for adventure enthusiasts, performing custom woodwork, metalwork and upholstery in-house. Buyers can opt for the Peak experience with a fully bespoke build or the Fusion using one of Outside Van’s proven layouts.

Paved to Pines

• Location: Redwing, Saskatchewan
• Van: Ford Transit, Ram Promaster, Mercedes Sprinter
• S ervice: Conversions
• Starting Price: ~$30,000 (van not included)

Paved to Pines is a Canadian builder based in Saskatchewan that ships all over North America. It works with Ford Transits, Ram ProMasters and Mercedes Sprinters — not to mention school buses. The company can build four-season off-the-grid units. And it offers both custom and more affordable semi-custom layouts.

• Location: Seattle, WA
• Services: Conversion/Repair/Rentals

Peace Vans performs modern conversions of Mercedes Metris vans. It offers a basic Weekender build and a Full Camper build with a fully-outfitted kitchen (42-liter refrigerator, integrated sink, two portable stoves) and custom cabinetry. Want a more vintage style? Peace Vans also repairs and does electric conversions of old VW Vanagons.

Ready.Set.Van.

• Location: Hamilton Twp, NJ
• Services: Conversions
• Starting Price: $38,000 (van not included)

New Jersey-based Ready.Set.Van turns Ram ProMaster vans into apartments on wheels, with the help of Tesla-sourced batteries . It specializes in innovative storage solutions, including below-the-bed gear storage and off-grid power systems. Read our review of Ready.Set.Van .

Sportsmobile

• Locations: Huntington, IN/Austin, TX/Fresno, CA
• Vans: Ford Transit, Ram ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter
• Starting Price: Contact (expect $150,000-plus)

Sportsmobile performs a range of conversions on Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster vans. It specializes in outfitting 4×4 vans for heavy-duty off-roading, including the Sportsmobile Ford-based Classic 4×4 and the Sprinter 4×4 , with features like locking differentials, Fox Shocks and a sway bar disconnect.

Storyteller Overland

• Location: Birmingham, AL
• Starting Price: $171,429

Storyteller Overland is based in Alabama. The company produces a line of Mercedes Benz-based off-road vans including its top-of-the-line Beast Mode and a Ford Transit-based Mode LT model . Features include custom wheels with all-terrain tires and a touchscreen control system.

• Location: Bellevue, ID

Idaho-based Sync Vans performs “semi-custom” conversions of short and long-wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter. Buyers make their customizations using a Sync Vans suggested configuration as a template, allowing for a quicker build time than a complete custom build. Sync Vans can add custom cabinets, lighting and upholstery.

Thor Motor Coach

• Location: Elkhart, IN
• Vans : Ram ProMaster, Mercedes Sprinter
• Starting Price: $112,980

Thor Motor Coach is a sibling brand of Airstream . It has a vast lineup of Class B motorhomes and Mercedes Sprinter-based camper vans and that includes the Mercedes Sprinter 4×4-based Sanctuary , which is ready to hit the trail from the factory with optional off-road tires and a roof-mounted solar panel.

• Location: Golden, CO
• Starting Price: $225,000 (vehicle included)

Colorado-based TouRig performs both spec and custom Mercedes-Benz Sprinter and (newly for 2020) Ford Transit-based 4×4 adventure van conversions. It offers a range of electrical and plumbing systems for going off the grid. TouRig can also outfit vans for off-road use with suspension kits, shocks and mounts, wheels and tires.

• Location: San Diego, CA
• Starting Price: $119,000

San Diego-based VanCraft performs conversion for both short and long-wheelbase Mercedes Sprinter vans. Its builds are designed to go off the grid and offer features like Oak Butcher Block Counters, four-season insulation and open-concept garage storage. VanCraft also offers rentals.

Vanlife Customs

• Location: Denver, CO
• Starting Price: $90,000

Denver-based Vanlife Customs can build modern or rustic conversions of Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster vans. It can also tailor them to your unique style with custom wood interiors. VanLife Customs also rents vans in Colorado, Nevada and Utah.

• Location: Eden Prairie, MN
• Starting Price: $140,374

Winnebago is an iconic Iowa-based recreational vehicle manufacturer. While best known for its bus-like RVs, the company also produces a wide range of Ram ProMaster- and Mercedes Sprinter-based camper vans, from the affordable pop-top Solis and comparatively petite Solis Pocket to the off-road-ready Revel 4×4 .

Factors to Consider When Building a Custom Camper Van

Amenities: How are you going to use the camper van? What features do you need to accomplish that goal? What you need for the weekend “get away from it all” trips will differ from trying to live completely off-the-grid. What sort of toilet and indoor/shower setup facilities do you need?

Build Time: Build times for a custom camper van can vary from several weeks to several months. And the most popular builders will have waitlists before they can even get to your build.

Materials: You want your camper van to be durable. Like with your physical home, that means using quality materials. That may cost more at the outset but it may end up saving you in the long run.

Size: How many people are going to be camping? Where are you going to store it? Is your HOA going to throw a fit if it doesn’t fit in a standard garage? Do you need to be able to stand inside of it?

Transparency: Building a custom camper van isn’t cheap. The van alone can cost north of $50,000. The more features, customization and craftsmanship that goes into it, the more expensive the van will be on the back end. Make sure the pricing structure is upfront, clear and itemized before committing.

Related Topics

Van Life 101: How-To Guide for Living in a Van

This is your ultimate guide to van life! Learn everything you need to know about living in a van so you can follow your van life dreams.

Find this post helpful? Learn how you can support Bearfoot Theory’s work here . You can also shop for gear through the affiliate links in this blog post where we get a small commission at no cost to you. It helps keep our team running and the lights on. THANK YOU! -Kristen

In 2016, I took the plunge into Sprinter Van Life. I sold my car, moved out of my apartment, and had a 4×4 144″ Sprinter built out into a tiny home on wheels with a full bathroom. After logging 30,000 miles and learning what I truly wanted in a van, I sold that first van and started over. The second time around, I went with a bigger 170″ 4×4 Sprinter Van that was converted by Outside Van . I ditched the bathroom, made room for mountain bikes and other outdoor gear, and never looked back.

Now I’m on my third converted Sprinter van that I spend roughly half the year living and organize a van life festival called Open Roads Fest to inspire other people to follow their van life dreams. My partner Ryan and I have traveled all over the United States, racking up countless outdoor adventures and encounters with all kinds of cool people that I’ll never forget. We’ve driven 14,000-foot passes in Colorado , leaf peeped in New England , road tripped the Canadian Rockies , and more.

I’ve fallen in love with this lifestyle, and I’m not sure I’ll ever stop. I truly believe van life is one of the most fulfilling ways to live and travel , and for those of you who are dreaming, I’m here to inspire you and show you how it’s done.

Whether you are considering van life as a part-time or full-time endeavor, investing in or converting a van is a process full of big decisions. Navigating the many different options, set-ups, conversions, and even designing your nomadic lifestyle can feel overwhelming. So to make it easier for you, this blog post is the ultimate van life 101 guide filled with van life how-tos and answers to some most frequently asked questions.

We’ll cover everything from choosing and converting a van plus other helpful tips like how to earn money on the road and where to find essential amenities such as showers and fill stations. In many cases, we link to additional resources on our blog if you want to dive deeper.

Whatever your goals are, remember that there’s no right or wrong way to do van life — and that’s the best part. It’s all about making your life on the road work for you.

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1-on-1 Van Life Coaching

Ready to get over your analysis paralysis and put your van life dreams into action? Let’s make it happen together. Book a 1-on-1 van life coaching call now and take the first step towards a life of adventure, freedom, and unforgettable experiences.

Why Van Life is Awesome

There are countless reasons to transition to a life on the road and these reasons differ for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a grand adventure or you want to save money, here are a few of our favorite reasons for why van life is awesome.

1. Freedom to travel and explore on your own schedule

Van life gives you the freedom to explore the places you’ve always dreamed of visiting and to do so on your own schedule. Whether that’s visiting all of the National Parks or doing a slow cross-country road trip while visiting all 50 states, van life gives you the ultimate freedom to travel without time constraints, reservations, or agendas.

2. Van Life teaches you to embrace a simpler lifestyle

Living in a van requires you to embrace a simpler lifestyle with fewer belongings . You’ll have to prioritize the important things in your life and let go of the things that aren’t essential. For many people, this is actually one of the greatest lessons of van life!

3. Spend more time in nature

Van life can be a great way to spend more time in nature . From dispersed camping to visiting National Parks, living in a van allows you to get outside and explore the great outdoors. Vans can also be great basecamps for skiing or to start and finish overnight trips like multi-day backpacking adventures.

4. Save money

Living in a van can be as expensive or as cheap as you want it to be. Most van lifers enjoy the simplicity of van life, which often means camping for free on public lands and enjoying the outdoors free of charge . If you’re a full-time van lifer, you also won’t be paying rent or utilities, so it is very possible to save money while living on the road .

5. Be location independent

One of the greatest benefits of living and working on the road is that you can be location-independent . You may need to find reliable wifi every now and then if you work remotely, but for the most part, location independence while living in a van means that you can go where you want when you want.

Read next: Get inspired to hit the road with these van life books

The Pros & Cons of Van Life

Before jumping into van life full-time, it’s important to consider a few of the highlights and challenges that come with living in a van. Below are a few of the pros and cons of van life that I’ve encountered on the road.

Van Life Pros

• Flexibility to travel where and when you want on your own schedule. It’s liberating to not have to be tied down to place and time.
• Depending on your personal budget, fewer expenses may mean that you can save money and reach financial goals
• Live more simply with fewer things and belongings
• Spend more time outdoors
• Meet like-minded people on the road
• Unplug from the constant stream of news and social media

Read next: Looking for more tips on whether you should give van life a go? Head over to our post on Van Life Pros & Cons .

Van Life Cons

• Showers are less frequent
• Space is tight , especially if you share your van with a significant other or pets
• Vans get messy very fast and require constant cleanup
• Finding fill and dump stations is an undesirable chore
• You’ll likely spend more time in public restrooms
• You have to be mindful of safety when parking and choosing campsites
• You need a backup plan in case you get stuck or your van breaks down
• City driving and exploration can be a pain
• Cell service and wifi can be unreliable

How to Prepare for Van Life

When preparing for life on the road, there are a number of considerations to think about. Questions like “What will I do with all my stuff?” and “What gear should I bring with me?” are important things to think about. There’s no one right answer to these questions, but below are a few ideas to help you get prepared for van life.

Read next: Not sure how to broach the subject with your family? Learn how to talk to your loved ones about your van life plans .

What To Do With All of Your Stuff

How you choose to handle downsizing your belongings depends on your situation, how long you will be on the road, and your level of attachment to your stuff.

When trying to determine whether to just sell everything you own before transitioning into van life or to get a storage unit, there are a number of questions you can ask yourself to help you make the decision:

• Do you plan to travel long-term (more than a year)?
• Do you know if you’ll be returning to the same place once you’re finished traveling?
• Look at every item you have and consider: is it valuable? Sentimental? Historical? Irreplaceable? Why have I chosen to keep this for so long? Is this something I absolutely need or want?

Option 1: Put it in storage

If you don’t know how long you want to do van life and you know you want to return to the same city when you are done, then a storage unit might make a lot of sense. If you have a lot of valuable things and furniture that you don’t want to let go of, renting a storage unit will also be the way to go. Depending on where you live and the size of the storage unit, storage units can cost anywhere from $50-200 a month (or more).

Some things are important to keep safe, like documents, photos, letters, and portfolios for example. If these are the most important items you’re concerned about, consider digitizing them and keeping several copies on external hard drives and on Google Drive. A safe deposit box is a good option for important documents, jewelry, or small family heirlooms. You could also store these items at a friend or family member’s house that you trust.

Otherwise, sort through every item piece by piece and decide what can be sold, donated, given to friends, recycled, or thrown away. Then, do it again. Do it a third time if you need to. Invite a friend over that’s good at getting rid of things and solicit their help. After going through this process multiple times with a discerning eye, if you need to get a storage unit, get the smallest and least expensive one possible to cut down on cost and burden.

Option 2: Sell your stuff

Selling your stuff is a great idea if you’re considering moving somewhere else after your travels, if your stuff doesn’t hold much sentimental value, if it’s replaceable, or if you plan to transition to full-time van life indefinitely. It’s also a great way to get a little extra cash for van life.

Once you’ve gone through the sorting process and decided which items can be sold, list the items on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, LetGo app, and OfferUp app. Post flyers or host a garage sale. If you feel comfortable, share with people what you’re doing and why you’re inspired to travel in a van. Most people will be happy to support you, even if it means they just buy something small from you or tell their friends. Share your excitement and intention in minimizing your stuff.

What To Do With Your Home

If you own your home, you’ll need to decide what to do with it. If you love your house and don’t want to sell it, consider renting it out. It will help cover your bills (and maybe even bring in some extra money). Plus when you are done with van life, it will make your transition back to your home base pretty painless.

Another option is to rent out a single room to someone you trust, like a friend or family member. They get to live there alone while you’re traveling (what a score!), and you get to rest easy knowing that someone is taking care of your house.

Lastly, there are property managers that will help you list and rent your home on Airbnb or VRBO. You will need to pay for these services, but the upside is that they will take care of all the logistics like managing the rental calendar and hiring people to clean.

What To Do With Your Car

The options for your car are the same as we’ve been discussing for the rest of your stuff: store it, keep it at home, or sell it. If you know you’ll be coming back regularly and will need a car, or if you’re only hitting the road for a few weeks or months at a time, keep it.

Cars don’t fare well sitting unused for long periods of time, so keep this in mind. Have a friend come over once a month to start it and drive it if they can. If you have a house with a garage or driveway where you can store it, that’s ideal. Otherwise, you’ll want to find somewhere that you can park it for as long a period of time as you need.

There are climate-controlled storage facilities that will store vehicles, but these tend to be costly over the long term. If you’re committed to transitioning into full-time van life, consider selling your car and using the money for your van or the first few months of travel expenses while you’re transitioning to life on the road. Again, share with people why you’re selling your car if you go this route. If it’s not worth much, you could consider donating it to a good car donation charity that can pay it forward.

Buying a Van

How to choose a van.

Knowing how to choose the right van for van life means understanding what’s right for you. There are a ton of options out there and you probably have a few questions: Should you buy a used or new van? A Sprinter, a Ford Transit, a Dodge Promaster, or a Volkswagen? Build it out yourself or invest in a professional conversion?

There’s no one right way to do van life, but it’s important to get an understanding of what you want your van lifestyle to look like and what will work for you.

CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BUYING A VAN

• Where will you be driving your van?
• Will you need 4×4?
• Do you plan on living in your van during winter ?
• How much gear storage do you need?
• Are you handy with fixing things?
• What is your budget?
• Will you build it out yourself or hire someone to do it for you?
• Do you want a shower and/or a bathroom?

When you’re deciding what type of van to get, these are the most popular types of rigs that you’ll find on the market:

Sprinter Vans – If you’ve been reading this blog for a while, it’ll come as no surprise that the Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van is the Bearfoot Theory vehicle of choice. Because I spend my winters in snowy climates and like to spend my summers exploring backcountry roads, a 2-wheel drive was a no-go for me. The Sprinter is currently the only van in its category to have a factory 4×4 option. The 4×4 isn’t quite as good with gas efficiency, but it is a capable beast with a ton of storage space for bikes, paddle boards, and more. The downside of Sprinters is they are the most expensive van option and it’s not as easy to find mechanics to work on Sprinters.

High-roof Sprinter vans are perfect for those who want to be able to stand up and walk around in their van (and want something more modern and reliable. They also come in two different lengths – the 144” and the 170” wheelbase .

Dodge Promaster – The Dodge Ram Promaster is another popular vehicle choice for van life and it is considerably cheaper than Sprinters and Transits. It comes in two different lengths – 136” and 159” wheelbase, so it’s slightly shorter than a Sprinter and has less ground clearance, but it gets better gas mileage. The Promaster is also the widest vehicle option of the common panel vans. Promasters are typically FWD which can make driving up steep mountain passes and sandy areas more difficult.

Ford Transit – The Ford Transit is unique in that it comes in an AWD option (2020 and newer). This isn’t as hearty as a 4×4 Sprinter Van, but it’s more versatile than a traditional 2-wheel-drive van. Ford Transits are also a bit less expensive in price and maintenance than Sprinters and come with a higher interior height – the AWD has an interior height of 6’8! Transits also come with 2-wheel drive RWD options.

VW Vanagon, Westfalia, or Buses – These are great for handy folks who love a vintage vibe. Keep in mind that they might not be as reliable as newer vehicles and will require more upkeep. They also tend to not get as good gas mileage.

Budget cargo vans – Ford Econolines, Chevy G Series, Chevy Express, and Chevy Astros are popular budget cargo vans. These vans are typically much older but they are the cheapest option for getting on the road. Remember, van life comes in many shapes and forms, and sometimes a budget DIY build is all you need.

Read next: Find more tips about what van to choose in our post on Comparing the Best Vans for Van Life

New vs Used Vans

There are lots of pros and cons to think about when buying a used or new van.

Buying a new van obviously has its perks. It will come with a limited warranty, everything will be new, and the van becomes your ultimate canvas for a custom van conversion.

But you’ll also be paying quite a bit of money for a new vehicle, especially if you then hire someone to build it out for you. Buying a used van can cut down on initial costs and allow you to put more money into the conversion.

Another option is to find a used campervan that has already been converted. You’ll save yourself a ton of time and possibly money. The downside of buying used is, unless the van was converted by a professional conversion company with a lot of experience, there are really no guarantees on the quality of the conversion. Furthermore, if you have issues down the road, it might require more problem-solving.

Where to Look For a Van

If you’re sold on a Sprinter Van, check out this blog post where I share a list of forums and websites where you search for your perfect Sprinter to buy . For more places to search for Sprinters as well as other types of vans, the downloadable PDF below contains a full list of websites, forums, and Facebook groups where you can search for a van.

Helpful Tip

Rent a campervan.

If you’re really not sure what kind of van you want, renting a van is a great way to, literally, take it for a test drive. Check out this blog post for a list of places to rent a campervan for a night, a weekend, or more!

Converting a Van into a Camper

You’ve settled on the type of van, got the design inspiration, and an epic road trip calling your name. However, when it comes to actually building out your home on wheels, there’s a lot to think about. Designing your van shouldn’t be a rushed process, and doing your homework before you start the conversion process is key. The more knowledgeable you are about layouts and components, the more likely you’ll be happy with the final product.

There is so much more than I can write in this one blog post about planning your van conversion, so I suggest you head to our Van Life homepage and scroll down to the section on planning your van conversion. There you will find inspiration and more than a dozen blog posts with all of the nitty-gritty details on building out a van. From insulation to flooring, to bed styles, galleys, and solar power systems, we provide all of the information you should know in order to make educated decisions about your van build.

Designing your Van’s Layout

Here’s a quick pro tip: Take your empty van out for a trial run before it is converted. Throw in a sleeping pad and bag, a cooler, and your favorite camping gear, and go on an adventure.

You can learn a lot about how you’ll use the space after one week on the road. You may think you want room for kayaks only to find that you didn’t use the kayaks once on your road trip. Or a bathroom might seem like a necessity until you realize getting by without a bathroom (or at least a shower) in your van isn’t that difficult.

What you learn on this trial run will give you a much better idea of what you do or don’t want and will better inform your floor plan ideas.

See this blog post for more things to consider as you design your van’s layout .

DIY or Hire a Conversion Company?

After you purchase your van, the next step in van life 101 is deciding whether you will hire someone to convert it or if this will be a DIY job. There’s no right or wrong answer and you have to evaluate your personal situation to decide what’s right for you. I go over all the pros, cons, and considerations for a DIY van build vs hiring a campervan conversion company in this blog post .

If you have experience building stuff and have the tools, you’ve set aside the time, or you simply think that building out a van would be a fun and enjoyable process, going DIY can save you a lot of money. I’d just recommend setting aside more time than you think you need and having wiggle room in your budget.

If you do decide to hire a company, do your homework to make sure the company is legit. There are a lot of “van conversion” companies popping up everywhere who see the growing demand for van life. However, many of these companies are inexperienced and are delivering a low-quality product. To properly screen these companies, you need to do more than just scan their website and Instagram feed. You need more than pretty pictures to ensure you’re going to get a well-built, durable van. Your builder also needs to have an understanding of solar , materials, plumbing, and how to build cabinets in a van that is constantly flexing.

In this blog post, I share a number of questions you should ask before hiring a van conversion company .

Living in a Van and Tips for the Road

Some of the most common questions I get about van life are about the basic everyday necessities. Topics like using the bathroom, showering, finding the best overnight parking spot or scouting out a good campsite, cooking three meals a day, and even what to do about your mail are always on top of mind for prospective van lifers.

Our Van Life page has a wealth of information and resources for you to use with some of my best tips and advice.

Auto Insurance for your Van

If you want to insure your entire build and not just the vehicle, you’ll need an RV Insurance policy.

Progressive Insurance is one of the few companies I’ve found that offers full replacement coverage for class B converted vans and your belongings and this is what I use ( read my full Progressive RV Insurance review here ), but they only cover professionally converted vans.

Roamly is an insurance company that caters specifically to van lifers and RVers that many people have had good luck with. You can read more about the different options for choosing an RV policy for van life here .

Get a free insurance quote from Roamly

Roamly caters to van lifers/RVers and they know how to tailor insurance policies to fit travelers’ needs.

Plus, Roamly customers  save an average of 25% on their insurance policies  compared to other companies.

Health Insurance

If you don’t have health insurance via your employer, you’ll want to shop for health insurance on healthcare.gov. The key is choosing a policy that has good nationwide coverage so you don’t get stuck with a huge out-of-network doctor bill when you’re traveling.

For more tips and information about healthcare coverage on the road, read our post on Health Insurance for Van Life .

How to Get Mail on the Road

There are a few different options for getting mail on the road. If you have a P.O. Box, you can give a trusted friend or family member the key or ask a neighbor or friend to collect your mail from home. You can also use an Amazon locker for any packages shipped from their site.

Need to send yourself mail? Ship it to friends’ and family’s houses that you know you will be visiting. You can also ship packages to many shipping and office stores. I usually google “receiving packages or package holding in xx” with the city I’ll be in and usually a few options pop up. Then I call for details on how the package should be addressed and what it will cost for them to hold the package. We have a lot more tips and ideas for getting mail on the road in our Establishing Residency & Getting Mail as a Full-Time Van Lifer post.

Finding Bathrooms and Showers

After two years of traveling in a Sprinter Van with a shower and toilet, I decided to nix it for my second van conversion. I found an interior shower and toilet used up too much water and took up valuable space, among other reasons that I outline in this post on why you don’t need a shower .

It’s easy to find a shower and toilet in most paid campgrounds, RV parks, and even gyms or your friend’s house! Of course, with our current situation, public showering is less desirable, so if you’re worried about staying fresh and clean on the road, here are some camping hygiene tips for women .

If you know that you do want a shower and toilet in your van, we have several posts to give you some design and layout ideas:

• Best Campervan Toilet Options
• Campervan Water Systems
• 12 Campervans With Bathrooms

Read next: Showers can use up a lot of water. Read our tips on how to conserve water when living in a van .

Cooking in your van

Van life cooking can seem daunting at first – with such a small space, limited access to water, and without the usual conveniences of home (oven, microwave, large fridge, etc.), how can you make easy, healthy meals on the road? Turns out it’s pretty easy! We have a few guides to help you whip up delicious meals on the road in no time:

• How to Meal Plan and Cook in a Small Space
• Camp Kitchen Essentials for Van Life
• 15 Camper Van Kitchens for Layout and Design Inspiration

Water Fill-Ups, Dump Stations, and Laundry

One of the least glamorous sides of van life is chores such as refilling your water, dumping your greywater, and finding places to shower. These are chores that you just don’t have to think about when you live in a house! However, it’s pretty simple to find water, dump stations, showers, and laundromats on the road.

Common places to refill your water tanks are RV parks, gas stations, and public parks. Usually, RV parks and campgrounds also have dump stations to dispose of your greywater.

If you downsize your wardrobe with the tips I share a little further down in this post, you should be able to make it a couple of weeks without washing your clothes. You can also do laundry at a laundromat, by hand, at an RV park (they’ve also got showers!), or ask to use a washer and dryer at a friend’s or family member’s home.

Read next: Use our guide on Finding Water, Dump Stations, & Showers on the Road

How to Find Free Places to Park and Camp

My favorite van life apps for finding a good campsite are iOverlander (free campsites) and The Dyrt (paid campsites). I also like using Benchmark Atlases to find Forest Service land and dirt roads with dispersed camping. Use our post about Finding Campsites on the Road for more ideas and resources. If you plan on stealth camping in cities, we have a post on that, too .

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How to Get Internet/WiFi in your Van

One of the biggest concerns I hear from prospective van lifers is how to stay connected and find free wifi on the road. If you work remotely, this is an important consideration you’ll need to address before hitting the road, but truthfully wifi and good cell service aren’t hard to come by. I use an unlimited data plan on my phone as a wifi hotspot or if I need more reliable internet, I’ll head to a library or coffee shop.

For more tips, be sure to read our post on Van Life Internet Access and Staying Connected on the Road .

Finding Fun Local Activities & A Van Life Community

I love to use the AllTrails and MTB Project apps for finding hiking and biking trails. Aside from that, one of the best ways to get good beta on fun things to do is by hanging out at a restaurant, cafe, or bar and chatting with the locals.

See all our favorite trail finder apps and websites for more ways to find things to do on the road.

In addition to finding awesome things to do in the places you travel, building a van life community is another great way to enjoy the road. Social media is an easy way to connect with other van lifers by searching van life hashtags on Instagram or joining dedicated van life Facebook groups.

If you’re not big on social media, check out van life gatherings to meet other nomads. We host Open Roads Fest near McCall, Idaho and it’s the perfect place for nomads and aspiring nomads to meet. You don’t need a van to attend!

Is Van Life Safe?

It’s totally natural to have some fears about being out on the road. When I first started van life, I was a solo female van lifer , and I’ll admit that the first trip I went on, I was very scared, particularly at night.

Now that I have some experience under my belt, I’ve learned how to manage my fears with a set of practical van life safety tips that help me feel more confident and secure when I’m traveling in my Sprinter Van.

Things like blackout curtains will provide privacy at night, only parking in places I feel 110% comfortable, parking facing the road so it’s easy to drive away quickly, having a designated spot for your keys, and having an indoor solution to using the bathroom in the middle of the night are my go-to safety tactics when I’m out on the road alone.

Can I bring my dog or cat in the van?

Absolutely! Van life with pets is awesome. We’ve been doing van life with our adventure dogs Charlie and Gumbo for over 2 years. I truly think van life dogs have the best life. Between running around outside, greeting strangers, and getting scraps of food leftover from camp cooking, van life dogs have it made.

But that’s not to say that there aren’t important considerations and precautions you need to take when living in a van with a pet. It’s essential to think about how to keep them cool if you leave them in the van alone, whether they’re welcome at campgrounds or parks, what extra cleaning you’ll need to do, among other things. To learn more about these and more, read our Van Life With Pets post .

The Importance of Leave No Trace

No matter what you’re doing, it’s so important to be responsible enjoyers of the outdoors. Even in a van, where you can easily come and go, being mindful of your footprint will make a huge difference in preserving these places for years to come.

Before you head out, familiarize yourself with the Leave No Trace principles to help minimize your impact at the campsites, on the trails, or even answering nature’s call in the woods. Also, make a commitment to leave places better than you found them by picking up any trash left behind by other campers.

Need to brush up on your Leave No Trace skills? Read about it here:

• Basic guidelines of Leave No Trace
• How to pick a campsite and Leave No Trace
• Safe campfire tips
• How to poop outdoors
• Leave No Trace and Van Life

Gear You Need for Living in a Van

The gear you need for van life can be boiled down to only having the items that you use most often in your daily life. Pay attention to what you’re currently using—or not using—so you can downsize to have only the essentials in your van. This is a great time to  evaluate what you really need to be happy  and to start thinking about ways you can potentially simplify your gear.

Check out a shop like The Container Store (it’s heaven for organizing nerds!) for different sized boxes, bins, and you guessed it, containers that can be easily stored in your van. Another great item is a handful of packing cubes that you can use to stash your clothing and soft goods and prevent clutter. For more ideas on how to stay organized in our van, check out this blog post on van organization tips and smart storage solutions .

Deciding what to bring clothing wise may be one of the most difficult parts of downsizing for van life. In my post on Van Life Clothing , I outlined the basic packing tips that have allowed me to maintain a minimalist wardrobe that is neat, comfy, and versatile. Check out these tips for van life clothing & gear:

• Keep it simple with solid colors or simple patterns that can go with anything.
• Only pack wrinkle-free, machine washable clothing .
• If you have a piece you really like, bring two or an extra in another color. It will make getting dressed very easy.
• If you don’t wear it often already at home, leave it at home.
• Make sure you plan for the change in seasons .
• Ditch the books – invest in a Kindle or iPad to cut back on the space that physical books take. We love the Libby app where you can link a library card to download e-books and audiobooks for free.
• Quality over quantity : what items will most efficiently accomplish the task and take up the least amount of space in your van?

For the rest of your gear, you’ll want only the things that bring you a lot of joy and you use at least once a week . With that in mind, check out these blog posts to get the full list of the best gear for van life:

• 30+ Must-Have Van Life Essentials
• 50+ of the Best Van Life Gifts (treat yourself!)
• The Best Van Life Gear at REI
• 15 Kitchen Essentials for Van Life Cooking
• Road Trip Essentials: A Packing Checklist for Adventure Travelers

Making Money on the Road & Van Life Finances

In 2016, right after getting my Sprinter Van, I spent nearly a year completely apartment-free. It was a liberating time, but it also came with challenges. Transitioning from stationary life to van life looks a little different for everyone, especially when it comes to your work. Luckily, I am able to work remotely, but my experience as a full-time working van lifer is different than someone who can quit their job and live off their savings for a year and that’s totally okay. The whole point is to create a lifestyle that works for you while giving you more freedom.

If you’ve saved enough money to quit your job and travel, kudos to you! But that’s not a realistic scenario for most people, including myself. If you want to do full-time van life while still bringing in income, there are a number of options. All you need is motivation, a skill set, a decent internet connection, and enough power to charge up your electronics.

Remote Job Ideas for Van Lifers

Finding a well-paying job as a freelancer in the gig economy is perfect for those who work from home, especially if you’re home is on wheels. Set up an Upwork or Fiverr profile for anything from writing, graphic design, web development, social media management, or even consulting. We also recommend checking out the Basecamp Outdoors Facebook group to find remote jobs specific to the outdoor industry – that’s how we found two of our current team members!

If you already have a job, consider asking your boss if you can work remotely and take your career on the road. Alternatively, starting your own business is a viable and lucrative option—it worked for me and has worked for many others, too.

For more remote job ideas, check out these blog posts:

• 20 remote jobs for van lifers and travelers
• How to start an outdoor travel blog
• How to make money on the road: career tips for van lifers

Seasonal Work Ideas

Don’t mind being semi-stationary? Get seasonal work somewhere, for example, the National Parks are a great option, and ski resorts are always hiring multiple positions during the winter for all you ski bums out there. Cool Works is a great website to find seasonal gigs.

If you’re planning on moving around more often and need something temporary, get in the habit of checking Craigslist to see if there are events in need of staff or other places just looking for some extra help. If you like pets, trustworthy dog walkers are always in high demand!

How Much Does Van Life Cost?

Van life can fit into any budget. Whether you’re looking to live cheaply on the road or not, the cost of van life varies from person to person. Expenses depend on a lot of factors such as where you camp, how much you drive, whether you eat out often, and what activities you do along the way. We know van lifers who live on $800 a month and others who spend $2,000 or more.

The biggest expense of van life will most likely be buying your van and converting it. New vans cost around $30,000-$45,000 while conversions can vary from $10,000-$20,000 if you do it yourself or upwards of $125,000 for a professional, fully decked out van built by a conversion company. Keep in mind that these are just estimates. Costs are different for everyone depending on their budget.

The cost of daily life on the road depends on whether you treat van life like your real life or a vacation. Do you eat or cook in? Do you pay for campsites or stay on BLM land? Do you focus on free activities or splurge on big adventures? In this blog post, I share some my budget and the common expenses you should plan for as a van lifer: How Much Does Van Life Cost? A Breakdown of Common Expenses .

I also share tips on saving money and living on a budget in your van .

Now, It’s Time for Your Adventure!

Once you’ve got all your systems dialed, it’s time to put them to good use and go have some fun! Learn how to plan a stellar van life road trip with our detailed road trip guides and itineraries .

We hope this post has answered your frequently asked van life questions and given you the inspiration and confidence to start your own van life adventures! What did we miss? Leave us a comment below.

Related Posts

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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18 Comments

This was a great article. It was full of useful information.

Thanks for reading!

This is the best article I’ve found so far, really gave me a lot to think about and consider as I’m diving into this new lifestyle! Thank you!

Glad you found it helpful!

I have read a few van life articles, yet none of them mention one important issue. Your address. Cop stops you for whatever reason, what address you have in your driver’s license? I assume you have a bank, no? Banks, credit card companies, and even your year end tax return requires an address. Not a PO box. Banks do not accept addresses to mail facilities or fedex-type, mail forwarding locations. If you rent storage space, bingo! You need to put down your address. Debit card, credit card expiring soon? Where will the bank send it to? For some reason, nobody mentions this crucial information. Parents? Friends? Relatives? Dude, not everyone is 25. Eventually people get old and die. With no friends, relatives, or family, whose address are you going to plunk down? Articles like these always “forget” to talk about the realities of life. Since I am in a position where it would be cheaper for me living in a van, you have no idea how difficult this single issue to get around. I am not a junkie and never did drugs. Never drunk, never smoked or even drank coffee. But when you end up all by yourself, things can get really complicated just by this little meaningless thing you call “address”.

Hi Ben, that sounds like a tough position to be in. However we know tons of people living on the road full-time who make it work without an “address”. It can definitely be tricky at first, but we outline several options in this blog post about establishing residency & getting mail: https://bearfoottheory.com/van-life-establishing-residency-getting-mail/

Getting a mail forwarding service that caters only to nomads might be the best option for you.

hi my name is joseph I am now retired I drove an 18 wheeler for over 30 years I now draw a disability check which gets direct deposit into my checking account since I am used to living in a small confined space I think van life would be great for me I have already spent 1 year living in a van but was around family where I could use the restroom take showers and wash and dry clothes but have spent several weeks on free camp grounds as well I love traveling and I love the open road and the freedom that comes with it im hoping to get another van and do van life full time

Hi Joseph, it sounds like you’ve had a great introduction into van life! We agree that there’s nothing quite like the freedom that comes with living in the van and getting to travel. Best of luck with getting a new van and taking the leap to full time!

I love this article except one thing: It’s not even an option for me to WFH with the full-time job I currently have (and am planning to keep). I’ve thought about buying a small RV but would have to find somewhere to park it each and every day, both while at work and when I leave work. Any ideas?

Hi Ben, this article about how to stealth camp in cities will give you some ideas of where to park: https://bearfoottheory.com/van-life-stealth-camping/

I will say that a small RV is much harder to be stealthy in, unfortunately.

Thanks for reading & best of luck!

I’m retired/disabled and alone. Any ideas on Dr. appts. and meds.?

Hi Rick, we recommend looking at nationwide healthcare plans that way you can see doctors who are not in your home state. To make refilling prescriptions easier on the road, choose larger pharmacy networks like major grocery stores, Walmart, or Walgreens so you don’t have to transfer your prescriptions each time you move from place to place since they will already be in their computer systems.

We have a blog post that goes more in-depth on health insurance options on the road: https://bearfoottheory.com/van-life-health-insurance/

well what really killed my Van lifestyle dream is the actually cost of the Van itself..

Hi Dan, the cost of vans has definitely risen over the years but it can still be done on a budget. Our content manager lives out of an older Econoline and has a very basic setup – it might not be as luxurious as other vans but it still gets the job done. Van living doesn’t have to look a certain way!

If you need any tips for how to lower the cost of a van/build, check out this blog post: https://bearfoottheory.com/tips-for-a-budget-diy-van-build/

Some downsides every should consider are you no longer have the community that comes with your former life ( we are hyper-social animals). Your hobbies are potentially quite different and this lifestyle can put tremendous strains on an otherwise strong relationship. When you return, know that life has moved on, friends, family, and places all have adapted to your absence. If its important to you, you will leave only faint marks on the world and not as many deeper ones such as group builds, art projects, and community service. The rootlessness giveth and taketh away.

Great points, thanks for sharing

you had it built? You didn’t build it yourself??? Not the article I was expecting “Van Life 101”.

I’ve designed three vans, but I did not build them myself. With that said, Outside Van (who built my last two vans) is the best in the business, so I learned a ton from them in the process about van conversions. I explain in the article that there are pros and cons to DIY build and everyone needs to figure out the best solution for them. I do have a lot of resources on my website for van conversions, but this article was more focused on the “life” part of van life.

Best Vans To Live In And Convert For Vanlife

By Author Jake Junda

Posted on Last updated: July 12, 2023

Categories Van Build , Vanlife Guides

Are you curious what are the best vans to live in? Well, vanlife is certainly not a one-size-fits-all community.

Some folks are looking for just a basic weekend van with a bed, simple kitchenette, and some storage. While others are aiming for a luxury home on wheels, complete with solar panels, shower, air conditioning, induction cooktop, and more. And all wonderful campervan creations in between.

There are a lot of factors to consider like roof height , interior space, new vs used , all-wheel-drive , fuel efficiency, etc.

And of course, budget! Finding a van that fits your needs and your budget is where the real challenge begins.

But this post will help you decide which vans are the best to live in based on your specific goals.

Note: This article covers van availability specific to North America.

Euro-Style Vans 

The first category includes the most modern and expensive vans, sometimes referred to as Euro-Style. They are defined by a boxy shape and were the first vans in North America with a high roof option. The primary benefit of which is being tall enough to stand inside. And advancements have led to decent gas mileage in the high teens to low twenties.

This market segment is currently dominated by the “Big Three”, Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit, and RAM Promaster. These vans with standing room and loads of modern tech and safety features are a top choice of best vans to live in.

The extended body, high roof models give tons of extra space that’s ideal for two people living full time, or families with children or pets.

And the cargo vans are an ideal blank slate for conversions, though some passenger and crew versions are available too.

There are some meaningful differences and plenty of nit-picky distinctions between them, but ultimately, they are all great platforms for a van conversion.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

The Mercedes Sprinter Van is the most high-end luxury van available. But it’s also the most expensive, leading to the high price of a Sprinter Van Conversion .

It’s a boxy full-size van that comes in tons of different sizes and configurations.

The Mercedes Sprinter has the most luxurious cab of all vans.

One of the most notable benefits is the available four-wheel-drive and high clearance (otherwise RWD). For off-roading, it’s the best option of the “big 3”. However, beginning in 2023, Mercedes switched from true 4×4 to all-wheel-drive (AWD), a move that will certainly upset off-road enthusiasts. (What’s the difference between AWD and 4×4?)

The Mercedes Sprinter is expensive to maintain in North America, since parts are less common and mechanical issues often require dealership expertise.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinters are also available in diesel versions, which historically results in better gas mileage, longer engine life, and thus, better resale value.

Ford Transit

The Ford Transit Van is another one of the most popular vans to live in. It’s Ford Motor Company’s boxy euro-style van that debuted in 2015 in North America. It is available with several different roof heights and lengths.

It offers a vehicle size similar to the Sprinter with a little bit of price savings, for purchase price and also maintenance.

Beginning in 2020, the Ford Transit became available with AWD models (otherwise RWD). This added the Ford Transit to a relatively small list of vans with all-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive.

Ford Transit vans are only available with gas engines in North America.

RAM Promaster

The RAM Promaster, introduced in 2014, is a North American version of the Fiat Ducato Van (available in Europe since the 90’s). It offers the cheapest entry price of the “big 3” euro-style vans.

And similar to the Ford Transit, parts and maintenance are relatively cheap in North America. However longevity is slightly more suspect that the other two.

Perhaps the biggest advantage of the RAM Promaster is its boxy shape. It’s not a perfect box, but noticeably less rounded than Sprinter or Transit. This makes converting the van slightly easier, with less curvature to account for.

And lastly, the RAM Promaster has the widest interior width, making sleeping width-wise more feasible. Which in turn, saves more space for the living area of your conversion.

One potential drawback of the RAM Promaster is that they are only available with front-wheel drive. A Promaster may be less capable of climbing steep pitches with low traction surfaces (i.e. snowy mountain roads or dirt backcountry roads).

RAM Promaster was available with diesel engines from 2014-2019, but since 2020 they have only been made with gas engines.

The Nissan NV is a bit of a unique van option (discontinued in 2021). It feels like somewhat of a hybrid between euro-style van and classic American work van. With its available boxy high roof, paired with a truck-like construction

It borrows the platform used for Nissan Titan, and has a long nose, which makes for a more comfortable cab but takes away from the overall cargo space. So there is a shorter living space as a ratio of overall vehicle length.

Perhaps the most notable feature is the best in class towing capacity of the Nissan NV.

They are only available in RWD, though I commonly see them used as a platform for aftermarket 4×4 conversions.

The Nissan NV didn’t capture enough of the market to remain viable, but despite that, it’s still one of the best vans to live in.

Mercedes Metris Van

Another unique van that doesn’t fit neatly in a specific category is the Mercedes Metris (Mercedes Vito in Europe). It’s smaller than all the full-size vans but bigger than the rest of the minivans and city vans. And with a powerful engine and a RWD drivetrain, the Mercedes-Benz Metris is definitely a workhorse for its size.

For some, the Metris might be the perfect goldilocks van, with a balance of features that’s just right.

It is available in cargo and passenger versions.

The Mercedes Metris is the most refined “minivan” with a comfortable tech-loaded interior and snappy handling.

But like its big brother the Mercedes Sprinter, the Metris is priced more like a luxury vehicle. And parts and maintenance are more expensive, typically requiring visits to the MB dealership.

In the United States and Canada, the Mercedes Metris was produced from 2015-2023.

Classic American Work Vans

The classic American work vans category includes Chevy Express, GMC Savana, Ford E-series, and Dodge Ram Van.

This category of older, mostly discontinued, vans dominated the full-size van market in North America for decades. As such, there are tons of cheaper used models available that offer a budget-friendly entry into vanlife.

They are cheap and easy to maintain, with abundant parts and qualified mechanics. With designs that change very little over decades, it is easy to find common and recycled parts

The main drawbacks are the low roofs and a very rounded body. The round walls are a bit of a challenge for DIY conversions, and the low roof doesn’t allow for standing up inside.

However, there are a number of common aftermarket hightop conversions (like our campervan Delphie ). This includes conversion vans, shuttles, handicap vans, pop top campervans, ambulances, and more. Here’s why we think fiberglass hightop vans are a great value!

And lastly, classic American work vans are not known for good gas mileage, typically hovering in the mid teens.

But their abundance and cheaper price make them the most budget-friendly full-size van option for aspiring van lifers.

Chevy Express and GMC Savana

The Chevrolet Express and GMC Savana are General Motors’ full-size van series that began in 1996. They are the last of the classic American work vans still in production, making them the longest active in-production vans in North America.

What you can say about them is they are dependable workhorses that are cheap to buy and maintain. And from 2003-2015 the Chevy Express 1500 and Savana 1500 were the only full-size vans with available AWD in the US.

However, these vans only come with a low roof option, so standing height conversions require aftermarket mods like a fiberglass hightop or pop top.

They don’t get good gas mileage and they lack many of the tech and safety features that come standard on Transit, Promaster, and Sprinter.

While all other auto manufacturers have pivoted to a euro-style van design, the Express and Savana represent the last of the classic American work vans.

Ultimately, a used Chevy Express or GMC Savana still represents a good budget-friendly van for low-roof conversions.

But since discontinuing AWD models and the introduction of euro-style vans, I don’t think anyone is clamoring to buy a new Chevy Express for a van conversion.

I wrote another post about the differences between specific Chevy Express vans .

Ford E-Series (Econoline)

The Ford E-Series (formerly Ford Econoline) was Ford’s previous full-size van offering until it was replaced by the Ford Transit. In production from 1960-2015, Ford E-Series was the longest-produced van lineup in North America.

They are known for being dependable and affordable vehicles.

The Ford Econoline was only ever available with RWD (Rear-wheel-drive). However, in my experience, they are the most common vehicle to find aftermarket 4×4 conversions, like those done by Quigley in Pennsylvania.

The Ford E-series vans are only available in low-roof models, so standing height conversions are not possible without an aftermarket hightop.

Probably the most famous version of this is the well-known Sportsmobile Classic 4×4 Conversion Van.

Ford E-series MPG ratings are typically in the mid-teens, thus not on par with the more modern euro-style vans.

I wrote another post about the differences between specific Ford E-Series vans .

Dodge Ram Van

Yet another one of the old classic work vans, the Dodge Ram Van was produced from 1971-2003. The biggest difference between Dodge Ram Van and the other classic American work vans is that it’s a unibody design. This means the chassis and body are constructed as one piece, rather than the ‘body on frame’ style employed by other vans.

The advantages of unibody are weight reduction, lower cargo floor, lower center of gravity for handling, and better crash safety.

But the disadvantages of Unibody designs are lower ground clearance, less hauling/towing capacity, noisier ride, less torsional rigidity for off-roading, and more expensive crash repairs.

However, all these pros and cons are likely more relevant when comparing to other vans of the same era. Most modern vans now employ a hybrid of the two types. They are technically Unibody designs, but with an integrated frame for rigidity and strength.

Another popular category of vans to live in are the ‘city vans’. A few popular vans in this category are the Ford Transit Connect, RAM Promaster City, Nissan NV200, and Chevy City Express. These small city-oriented panel vans were designed as light-duty work vans with excellent gas mileage.

Their smaller size makes them easier to drive and park, handling much more like a car than a full-size van. And their sedan-based design makes them cheaper to own and maintain. They are great for building campervans that also function as a daily driver.

Their biggest drawbacks are low roofs, lower payload, low ground clearance, and shorter lifespan.

Conversions built with city vans typically use creative designs to maximize the small space. The micro-campers can employ convertible beds, slide-out kitchens, and other flexible uses of the limited space.

Due to the smaller size, city vans are more common amongst solo vanlifers. 

These vans were popular during the 2010s to 2020s, but slowly all became discontinued. The Ford Transit Connect was the final van in production in this category, ending in 2023.

Chevrolet Astro (“Astrovan”) & GMC Safari

The Chevy Astro (and mechanically identical rebadged GMC Safari) are another popular choice of vans to live in. The Astrovan and Safari were boxy minivans produced from 1985-2005.

These small but capable older vans carry their own cult-like following. Especially the AWD versions that became available beginning in 1990. As a versatile and reasonably dependable van, they remain one of the best older vans to live in.

VW Vanagon (Volkswagen Type 2 – T3)

Ever since the VW Bus popularized vanlife in the 60s and 70s, Volkwagen has had a penchant for campervans. Their most popular campervan oriented vehicle is the VW Vanagon, with its highly modular furniture.

And none more popular than the professionally converted Westfalia Pop Top Campervan. The most luxurious version of these professional campervan conversions included a propane fridge, 2-burner stove, sink with water storage, and sleeping room for 4 adults.

Vanagons were produced from 1971-1991. And despite their age, these classic vans are still a popular van choice for VW enthusiasts. This trapezoidal-shaped van with cab-over design creates ground clearance and angles decently suited for off-road use.

However, they are notoriously underpowered. So Vanagon conversions should be very mindful of weight.

Additionally a four-wheel drive version, called Syncro, was produced from 1984-1991.

Experienced tinkerers are willing to put in the time, sweat, and money to keep these classic vans on the road.

The last category of popular vans to live in are family-oriented passenger minivans. They are not available in cargo versions, so expect to have lots of seats and windows on all sides. Minivans are a good option for a campervan conversion that also doubles as a people-mover. You can utilize folding seats to somewhat quickly transform back and forth from family car to weekend camping rig.

The ones that are actively in production include Toyota Sienna, Honda Odyssey, Chrysler Pacifica, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Kia Carnival.

But there are loads of other discontinued or renamed minivans from this market segment (Nissan Quest, Ford Windstar, Chrysler Town & Country, Kia Sedona, among others).

Older minivans can be scooped up for a decent bargain, but new ones are around $40,000. However, unless you need the utility of the passenger seats, your money could be better spent on another type of van.

The seat configuration typically allows for folding or removable seats to achieve maximum cargo space. And the flat floor makes a good platform for micro-camper conversions.

However, a Minivan’s round body shape and abundance of windows make them a challenge to convert the same way as a cargo van (with insulation, wood paneling, etc.)

What they lack in total cargo volume and off-road ability, they make up for in MPG and driveability.

Other Great Vehicles To Live In

Some of the other best vehicles to live in might not be vans per se, but they are worth consideration.

Box Trucks are the ultimate blank slate that is easy to convert. Their perfectly square walls make camper conversion very simple, you can even use household furniture. They are not the most pretty to look at, but their boring-ness can be a perk for stealth camping .

Shuttles come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Many of them are powered by cutaway versions of the most popular vans like Ford and Chevy vans. They can often provide much more cargo space than a van of a similar footprint. However, they require extensive demolition before you can convert. And the abundance of windows is generally a negative for camper conversions.

School Buses (Skoolies)

A school bus is another popular vehicle to live in. They come in many different sizes from full 40ft skoolies to compact short buses. The primary advantage of used school buses is a cheap purchase price and plenty of space for conversions. At about 7’7” wide buses are significantly wider than most vans (typically 5’10”-6’3”).

And while skoolies interior heights are usually either 6’2” or 6’6”, the severely curved roof means that standing height diminishes towards the edges of the bus. Which is why roof raises are still somewhat common.

Skoolies are completely surrounded by windows that are known to leak, so bus conversions should factor in the cost of window replacements or window deletes .

And while school buses are typically reliable vehicles, they usually require specialized mechanics to work on them.

Truck Campers

A Truck Camper is a hard-sided camper that is designed to slot right into a pick-up truck bed. They are a great option for serious overlanders that still want many of the comforts of an RV or campervan.

If you already own a truck capable of carrying a truck camper, then it may be your fastest way to get on the road.

And the ability to leave the camper behind gives you flexibility that no van can provide.

Takeaway: Best Vans To Live In

Choosing the right van for you is easier once you determine what your needs and goals are.

Are you designing a full-time campervan conversion for two people? Are you designing a micro-camper for one with good gas mileage that’s easy to drive in cities? Are you just looking for something cheap for a several month road trip? Are planning to do a DIY van conversion or pay for a professional van conversion ?

Once you identify your needs you can find something that fits in your budget.

If you have a large budget, then the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and RAM Promaster are great options with a great balance of space and capability.

Classic American work vans (like Ford E-series, Chevy Express, etc) are dependable workhorses that can be purchased at a good value. But without aftermarket modifications, they aren’t tall enough to stand.

City vans and minivans are a great choice for campervans that are easier to drive and cost less to maintain. For vanlifers who spend lots of time around cities, mini-vanlife is a perfect choice for fuel efficiency and ease of driving.

Here’s our guide on how and where to buy a van .

Happy Van Hunting!

Find your way over to our Vanlife Page with everything Vanlife gathered in one place.

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Best Vans To Live In For 2024: Top 5 Vehicles Most Recommended By Experts - Study Finds

Tuesday 3rd of October 2023

[…] The Nissan NV is a bit of a unique van option. While it may have been discontinued in 2021, you can still find plenty on the market to convert into your dream home on wheels. It feels like somewhat of a hybrid between euro-style van and classic American work van. With its available boxy high roof, paired with a truck-like construction. Perhaps the most notable feature is the best in class towing capacity of the Nissan NV,” shares Two Roaming Souls. […]

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Thursday 27th of July 2023

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The Best Van to Live In: Finding + Converting Your Dream Van

October 18, 2019 //  by  Vacay Vans //   3 Comments

From Sprinter to Volkswagen Bus and everything in between, it can be daunting to decide the best van to live in. I asked the vanlife community what they love (and sometimes curse) about their tiny homes on wheels to help you select the best type of van for you. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or looking for a van to live in full-time, I’ve dug though all the options out there to help get you on the road! 

This post is your one stop shop to help you find the best van to live in. This is your space to open the hood and see the the crucial differences between the most popular cargo van conversion options like the Sprinter, Transit, Promaster, and Nissan.

The Best Van to Live In: A Buyer’s Guide

Mercedes benz sprinter, ford transit, ram promaster, class c camper, conversion van, volkswagon vanagon, truck bed camper, other unique rigs.

Once you have found your perfect vanlife home, check out these sections below about where to buy and rent a used camper van online and tips on how to customize your van.

Where to Buy a Used Camper Van Online

• Where to Rent a Used Camper Van Before You Buy

How to Convert Your Van for Full-Time Van Life

Disclaimer: an important note about finding the perfect van to live in..

There is no perfect van.

As good as it might look on vanlife Instagram accounts, even the most enchantingly gorgeous and spacious van is going to drive you crazy sometimes.

Researching is important but there is such a thing as too much research. Don’t get lost in the researching phase and never launch into action. Don’t get stuck in analysis paralysis.

According to the paradox of choice , spending too much time deliberating between options can actually leave you feeling less satisfied with your ultimate choice. Agonizing over which van is right for you uses valuable brain power and will not necessarily result in you making a better final choice. Pick your top 2-3 must-haves and as soon as you find something within your price range in good mechanical condition, go for it!

The Best Van to Live In: A Buyer’s Guide

I scoured the interwebs and polled the Instagram vanlife community about their homes on wheels and put together a collection of youtube van tours, blog links, and Instagrams for you to follow, get inspired, and reach out to to ask questions.

Ready to find the best van to live in?

Alright, future vanlifer, let’s get this party started!

Living in a Van: An In-Depth Look at Your Options

Ready to find your ideal van to live in? Here are the key features that you need to know about the most popular van life options out there.

When you think #vanlife, you think cargo van. Cargo vans are extremely popular for the vanlife lifestyle because they are a great balance between comfort and convenience. You can park most cargo vans in regular-sized parking spots, they’re easy to drive, get decent gas mileage, stealthier than an RV, the interiors are completely customizable because you’re starting from a blank slate, and they’re tall enough for the average person to stand up inside.

There are four main options here: Sprinter, Transit, Promaster, and Nissan. We’re all dreaming of an electric cargo van (are you listening, Tesla?) but for now, this is what’s on the market today.

So many people in the vanlife community consider these to be the best vans to live in (and it’s what I live in! ). That’s why I am spending extra time here digging into the ins and outs of the various cargo van options. If you want to explore the other livable vehicle options, scroll down a bit, but if you’re here to learn about cargo vans, here’s your in-depth guide.

From the novice perspective, these vans might all seem virtually the same, but when you’re living in your vehicle, every little difference matters!

Tip- There are some inexpensive and simple upgrades that will transform your new home on wheels. If you want to live in a van, don’t underestimate these! You’ll find that it’s the small changes that make all of the difference.

Which cargo van should you convert into a camper van?

Cargo vans are an ultra popular pick and it’s the option that made the most sense for me. If you are thinking about living in a van solo (and read my essential tips on solo female van life before you do!), these are a top pick.

The Sprinter is popular for a reason! It’s the most expensive option, but it’s also the best for all possible weather conditions. Get the 4×4 and you’re nearly unstoppable on and off-road. The high-roof Sprinter comes in three lengths and the biggest one is so long it’s basically like a small RV, so there can be space to fit a shower, toilet, and closet (a total vanlife luxury!).

The most common complaint from Sprinter owners is that they are extremely expensive to repair. Mercedes Benz parts are pricey and usually they need to be special ordered. Additionally, only a small number of mechanics shops are able to properly repair Sprinters, so you might have to search a bit for a shop that can help you out (and deal with towing your vehicle there).

Love them or hate them, the Sprinter is here to stay. Check out some of these rad IG accounts for the ins and outs of Sprinter-living.

Dynamo Ultima has a fantastic tour and van build guide of their 4×4 Sprinter 170″ extended (the big boy!). They also have an adorable dog in their van, so check them out for tips about living with a pet on the road.

For a super creative and beautiful smaller conversion, check out Van There . Jess & Mike used to live in a 170″ Sprinter but they downsized to a 144″ and love their (even tinier) tiny home on wheels.

The Ford Transit is another solid and popularly converted cargo van. The biggest perk of the Transit is that the high roof is very very tall. The interior height is over 6’4″! If you’re on the taller side and want to have items like an AC unit and lights on your ceiling without worrying about bumping your head in your home, the Transit may be right for you.

The Transit is a little narrower than the other cargo van options, so keep that in mind. Depending on your height and how you sleep, you may not be able to sleep perpendicular to the length of the van. 

For a gorgeous conversion of the biggest Transit on the market, check out The Ladies Van .  These ladies own a conversion company SD Campervans that converts Transits just like theirs, so if you’re in the San Diego area, reach out and let them know Vacay Vans sent you!

The Promaster is quickly becoming the most popular cargo van to convert and for good reason. First off, the Promaster is more affordable than the Sprinter. Plus, the front-wheel drive makes it feasible to drive in winter weather. (I know more than a few ski bums who live in Promasters full-time in Colorado and Montana and say it handles great.)

The Promaster is a couple inches wider than the other cargo vans. This might seem like a small detail, but when designing your van home, every inch matters. If those few extra inches mean that you can sleep sideways in your van, you can turn the orientation of your bed and viola!– you’ve just added extra living space! The Promaster also comes in a different length options so you can have a more spacious home if you’d like.

Since cargo vans are gaining in popularity due to the exponential growth of vanlife, it might be difficult to find a reasonably priced Promaster in your area. It’s possible that you’ll need to travel long-distance to find the right Promaster for the right price. Scroll down below for tips on where to buy a van to live in!

Trent and Allie are popular YouTubers with a totally gorgeous Promaster conversion that’s basically a condo on wheels. Check out their tour below!

I live in a Nissan NV2500 and I love it! The Nissan is the least commonly converted cargo van of all the options, which means it’s the one that yields the most opportunity. Your odds of finding a Nissan that’s affordable and in great shape are higher because the demand is lower.

The Nissan is about the same width and length as the 144″ wheelbase Sprinter. It works great for one person and many have made it work for two as well. Nissan’s are super reliable, easy to fix, and also come with a 5 year/60,000 mile warranty unmatched by the other van manufacturers.

The biggest drawback for the Nissan is that it only comes in the one size, so if you want a longer wheelbase, you’ll need to check out the other options. It’s rear-wheel drive, but as long as you have quality tires, you’ll be in good shape in most off-roading situations. I have Hankook Dynapro all-terrain tires and I’ve driven on some pretty sketchy off-road situations without any issues at all!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkdKzQ-NvqI&t=62s

Thinking outside the cargo van: more options for your home on wheels

The skoolie is like the modern day hipster version of the traditional Class A RV (the tour-bus sized behemoth that grandma and grandpa drove across the country). The big skoolies are BIG. Like two-bedroom apartment big and can fit a lot of stuff and a lot of humans.

For an example of an adorable (and large) nomadic family on wheels, check out this bus tour with Contented Nomads , a family of six (with one more on the way!). This family is an amazing example of how families can still follow their vanlife dreams!

The large square footage of the skoolie offers creature comforts that the other mobile living options don’t often provide, including full kitchens with a full fridge, oven, multiple hanging out areas divided into various rooms, plus a full bathroom with a proper toilet and shower.

Not all skoolies are this elaborate, but the point is that they can be.

Buying an unconverted skoolie is technically more affordable than buying a cargo van but you need to keep in mind that the mechanics of an old school bus might need a lot of work. Add in those costs too!

Besides potential mechanical issues, a challenge with a skoolie is managing interior climate control. The more windows in your vehicle home, the more temperature issues you’ll have to account for. Make sure you insulate your van home very very well!

Some skoolies might not be tall enough for you to stand up inside, so you might need to raise the roof. Trust me, if you have a big-ass skoolie, you’re going to want to be able to stand up in it comfortably.

For an example of a skoolie bachelor pad with multiple freezers and an absurd amount of solar and water for ultimate off-grid living, check out The Off-Grid Skoolie.

Ready to hit the road…yesterday? Get yourself a Class C: these smaller RVs come already built-out and are spacious enough for you to fit a lot of stuff without having to go through the mega intensive minimalism detox needed for a transition to a Sprinter or Nissan.

These vehicles aren’t exactly stealthy because it’s clearly a livable vehicle, but they are smaller and therefore easier to park and have been gas mileage than the big skoolie or Class A RV. These are also great if you have limited construction knowledge and funds for the conversion because they’re typically already ready to go.

The build-out materials will likely be sub-par and not exactly your dream layout, but you can always tear it apart and do a remodel in the future. For now, though, a simple coat of new paint can go a long way!

Just make sure the engine is in really good shape. Like really, really good shape. Get an outside professional opinion and check extra well for previous water damage to avoid any moldy surprises.

I absolutely love Slow Car Fast Home ‘s Class C camper. They completely gutted their home on wheels, so this isn’t what it looked like right off the lot, but this is an amazing example of how livable (and gorgeous!) a Class C can be.

A short bus is a great option if you want something larger than a cargo van that’s completely customizable. You can buy skoolies and short buses for cheap but keep in mind that the mechanics need to be in good shape! If not, you’ll be dropping lots of time and money to fix things. Since short buses are empty shells, you can design your ideal tiny home, which can be costly but also can be a lot of fun.

Go for a short bus if you’re ready to do an in-depth conversion exactly the way you want it and if you’re not worried about it taking six months or more to complete before you can hit the road.

Pro Tip– always double the amount of time you think the conversion will take!

You’re going to love following Luv Martha , a solo female entrepreneur who makes custom-designed swimwear on the road in her adorable short bus! Her bus is a colorful crafting dream and she’s just as bright and happy as her adorable home on wheels!

A conversion van is similar to the Class C because it usually comes fully or partially built-out. Sometimes there’s just a bed and seating area though, so in that case you might need to add a kitchen. That said, a camping stove and gallon of water with a spout can work if you’re looking to do something cheap and easy.

The hard-top high roof conversion vans are great because you can stand inside and you don’t need to do anything to convert it from day-to-night (unlike the soft-top pop-up roofs, which need to be finagled with every time you want to park for the night and then taken down again before you can drive).

Again, the mechanics of the van are really of the utmost importance. Many of these vans are from the 80’s or 90’s, so make sure everything is in great shape for long-term use before buying!

Gnomad Home is a great account to follow for everything vanlife. They have a sweet conversion van and an extensive blog that helps you renovate the van of your dreams. Their blog definitely helped me a ton in my vanlife journey!

There’s no doubt about it: vanagons are damn sexy. It’s hard not to swoon every time I see one– they are just toooo cool for school!

Buying a vanagon means buying into a really tight-knit community of life-long VW lovers, which provides an invaluable source of friendship and support on the road.

Speaking of support on the road, you’ll likely be needing a lot of that if you get a vanagon. I have several close friends with vanagons and it seems like they are always having van trouble. They love their vans and accept these challenges as part of their journeys, but still, I have to stress to you: only buy a vanagon if you have money to pay for repairs AND you love getting your hands dirty because let’s be honest, you’ll be spending a lot of time under that vintage hood.

Vanagons are great because the interiors come completely built-out with lots of creative storage and they work great for couples on the road. They’re not exactly stealthy though, since you have to pop-up the top in order to sleep up top, so they are best if you spend lots of time parked in one area in nature and don’t plan to drive everyday.

Tip- Even if you aren’t into auto repair, I recommend getting your head around the basics. As a woman, I’ve struggled with mechanics who tried to scam me . To keep your sanity and cash, it’s essential to get your head around the fundamentals.

Two of my favorite vanagon accounts to follow are Irie to Aurora and Idle Theory Bus . These creative, rad, eco-minded couples are pillars in the vanlife community and co-host events with Vanlife Diaries .

If you want something large, unique, and retro, a vintage RV might be the best choice for you. These vehicles are spacious and come built-out (though you’ll likely want to tear things out are rebuild some, if not all, of the existing conversion depending on it’s condition), plus they’re super cool.

The big cautionary note here is that the vanlifers I know with vintage RVs also tend to have a lot of vehicle troubles that cost a lot of time and money. If you’re interested in going this route, see what you can do at the outset to get the vehicle in the best shape possible.

Rad vanlifers to check out include The Van Project and A Girl & Her Commander . These rad humans honestly share their loves and challenges living on the road and keeping their gorgeous vintage homes on wheels going strong.

A unique option for tall folks and for those who already own towing vehicles, the box truck is underutilized and super versatile! You can buy a box truck for cheap and since it’s a trailer, there’s no concern about the condition of any mechanics.

Box trucks, like shipping containers, won’t come with any windows or insulation, so construction time, knowledge, and cost will be at a premium, but you can create everything you want in this tiny home. Plus you can find spot to stay long-term and leave your trailer, while you explore or run errands with just the tow vehicle for convenience.

Outdoors Is Free has a really neat box truck conversion that will definitely get your creative juices flowing!

If you already have a truck and want to turn your truck into an easy adventure vehicle, get yourself a truck bed camper! These turn-key units can be installed right on the truck you already own and the expandable ones make it super easy to keep the camper on the back and still use your truck as your daily driver without much issue.

Another unique option in an ambulance! If you can utilize the existing storage, you can save some money on your conversion and also keep the general vibe of the vehicle in-tact, which is always fun!

Ambulances are sometimes old Sprinters so check the engines and all the ins and outs of how the vehicle runs before investing in it.

Fw.dude ‘s vehicle below in a German fire truck and shows an example of how these unique vehicles can be really badass.

The financial barrier to vanlife entry is not as big as you may think!

It might seem a little crazy to live in a regular-sized car, but hey, it’s a little crazy to live in a van! There’s a large group of #subielife peeps who live in Subarus and car dwellers who have incredible tips and tricks for space efficiency.

Check out this video of a woman living in her car for only $800/month from godfather of vanlife Bob Wells’ youtube channel CheapRVLiving.

Tiny homes come in all sizes and varieties and it’s amazing to see how innovative people can be in tiny spaces.

Here’s a Subaru tour from my buddies Van Kookz — they’ve lived in and DIY-converted several different vans and have tons of great tips on their YouTube channel!

Another example of a simple, affordable conversion is the van I rented in Bali with PukuCamper . Here’s a quick van tour of that sweet rig!

Ready to make a move and find your perfect tiny home? Start by scouring the internet on these websites using keywords and setting up automatic searches. Make sure you have your loans and finances in order first (sometimes it can be a tricky financing a cargo van because it’s considered a commercial vehicle and some states categorize it as such), and then scope out these websites for your perfect home on wheels!

• Craigslist.org (Tip- Set up multiple automatic searchs for the terms “Sprinter,” “Camper van,” “high roof,” etc. That’s how I found my van and was able to contact the seller within the first hour it was listed on Craigslist. Act fast to find the best deals!
• RVtrader.com
• ClassicVans.com
• Class B Vans for Sale (Facebook group)
• Gumtree.com
• Carsforsale.com
• Conversiontrader.com
• Caravancampingsales.com.au (Australia)

Not Ready To Buy Yet? Rent a camper van with Outdoorsy!

So, you want to live in a van. That is an awesome and life changing decision. BUT are you really ready to take on all of the challenges of vanlife? I’ve got good news for you van-curious folks!

You can test out vanlife before diving in. Renting a finished out camper van for a road trip adventure is SO helpful. What better way to find the best van to live in than to stay in one?

Outdoorsy is the “Airbnb of camper vans” and it’s a fantastic way to test out the vanlife waters. You get to take a trial run with someone’s privately owned van. This will give a true feel for what it would be like to have a van of your own.

Outdoorsy has tons of inventory all over on this website and you can select anything from a basic van without many amenities to a full-fledged pimped-out Mercedes Benz Sprinter.

Outdoorsy is also a dream option for international travel. I recently decided to live in van abroad for the first time in Indonesia and had an unforgettable experience. Whether you are on the road full-time already or just looking at living in a van for the first time, this is a bucket list experience.

Of course, once you have the van, your true project is just beginning! From DIY van flooring to van insulation, you van is your new home and pet project. I have done (and am working on!) multiple step-by-step DIY van conversion guides. For now, let’s just run though the basics.

Keeping Your Van Warm in the Winter and Cool in the Summer

Insulation is essential! This was a simple DIY. Check out my Best Natural Insulation for Your DIY Camper Van Conversion for a guide on how to keep your van warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Another simple van conversion DIY was my floor. You can see it all on the Sustainable Non-Toxic Flooring for Your DIY Camper Van post .

To Toilet or Not to Toilet

I do indeed have a toilet. For me living in a van without a toilet is madness! Having a bathroom in your van isn’t a given in the vanlife community. For me, it is one of the 5 Things I Couldn’t Live Without in my Van Build !

DIY Furniture for Vans: Table, Bed, Couch

I love my van setup. The benches work with the table for a dining space then fold flat to create a bed/ couch space. My convertible bed changes in literally 60 seconds flat to move between a living room, dining room, and bedroom.

Customization is key to making a small space work. I was able to make mine exactly the way that I wanted to maximize every inch of my van space. Here’s how.

Love this guide? Pin it to save for later!

Thanks for reading this detailed and hopefully informative post! Which van do you think is the best to live in? More importantly which is the best van for YOU to live in right now? Share in the comments below! I’d love to see what you are setting up.

Reader Interactions

October 24, 2019 at 9:03 am

Thanks for the treasure trove of information! I started following #vanlife & your posts stood out because of your energy & hair! 💜

May 2, 2020 at 7:50 am

Hey! Do you know where to find the foot and base from your table/bedplate? Does it have a brand name on it for instance? I assume it is a set since it all fits in eachother so well. Thanks in advance! Jeroen

May 2, 2020 at 10:34 am

Hi! Yup here’s the link for the table foot & base on my Amazon van build essentials storefront: van build essentials

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What Are The Best Vans To Live In Full Time In 2023?

What are the best vans to live in?

The best vans for DIY conversion into full-time living are the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit Cargo Van, Ram ProMaster, and the Nissan NV Cargo Van. The most popular camper vans are the Airstream Interstate 24x, Winnebago Bolt, Jayco Terrain.

With the DIY camper van scene in full-tilt, and many main-stream RV makers producing high-end camper vans, now is an exciting time to consider living in one of these amazing vehicles full-time.  

The days are passed when one had to settle for an off-road SUV and a tent to escape into an adventure on windy dirt roads. Also gone is the need to compromise on said adventure by going overkill with a full-sized RV, only to be disappointed after missing out on the places you can’t get to.

Adventure camper vans of 2023 are more agile than their dinosaur RV cousins. This makes them way more capable off-road, not to mention much easier to park. These beautiful and practical vehicles give you the ultimate access to remote parts of the world and let you bring all of the comforts of a tiny home with you.  

Today there are so many choices to have the van life cake and eat it too. One can buy a luxury camper van already built or choose a beefy 4×4 basecamp camper van on a rugged truck frame and oversized tires. If neither of those is the perfect fit, you can always DIY your own camper van and make it exactly what you need.

In recent years some exciting advancements in electric campervans are starting to make tracks on the van life scene in a big way. This results from the rise of nomads and tiny home aficionados, who frequently list sustainability as a reason for eco-friendly alternative lifestyles.

With the advancements in solar technology, internet access in remote places, and a more relaxed post-2020 remote working atmosphere, there are very few reasons not to hit the road for a few months, a year, or even full-time.

Ready to start your retro van lifestyle or a modern 21st-century van-dweller life? Consider our list of the best camper vans to live in full-time below.

QUICK NAVIGATION

• Best Vans For Full-Time Living

Three Ways To Get Your Dream Camper Van

• Do Your Own DIY Van Conversion
• Use A Custom Van Conversion Company
• Buy A Cammper Van

Best Camper Vans For DIY Conversion

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van

Ford Transit Cargo Van

Ram promaster, nissan nv cargo van, ford e-transit cargo van, volkswagen crafter panel van, best camper vans to buy, airstream interstate 24x.

• Jayco Terrain

Storyteller Overland Beast Mode 4×4

Loef camper van, thor motor coach sanctuary, fiat ducato base camper van, winnebago boldt, sportsmobile sprinter 4×4, sportsmobile ultimate adventure vehicle, glampervan promaster muv, hymercar camper vans, tiger adventure vehicles, outside van, rb components adventure van, roadtrek zion, antero adventure vans, benchmark vehicles, how to choose the right camper van.

• Price & Budget
• Inside Living Space
• External Storage
• Towing A Trailer
• Weight Capacity
• Vehicle Use & Driving Conditions

Camper Van Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Table of Contents

Best Vans To Live In – FAQ

Van life shower: the 20 best diy camper van shower ideas – 2023, 15 best portable solar panels for your rv or van – 2023 buyer’s guide, best camper van awnings – 2023 ultimate buyer’s guide, the 5 best diesel heaters for van life, what are the best solar generators for camper vans, rvs, or off-grid, best portable power stations for vanlife – 2023 buyer’s guide, top flexible solar panels for your camper van or rv – 2023 buyer’s guide, the best premium solar panels for your camper van – 2023 ultimate buyer’s guide, the best 200 watt solar panels under $250 for your camper van.

There are a lot of different opinions on the best camper van to live in full time. Some people prefer smaller vans for easy maneuverability and to save on gas, while others prefer the extra space that a larger van offers.

Some people prefer vans that are already set up and ready to go for adventure living, while others like to do a DIY conversion themselves. There are pros and cons to both options.

Below we will cover the three most common to help you get on your way quickly.

The three main ways to go about getting Into a camper van. The first one is to buy one from one of the many RV manufacturers. Secondly, you can look to a van customization company. Lastly, you can take an adventurous route and do a DIY van conversion yourself using one of the many popular cargo vans as a starting point.

Regardless of which option you choose, there is a good chance you will find something perfectly suited for your needs. We will dive into each of the three options below starting with the adventurous DIY van conversion.

1. Do your Own DIY Van Conversion

Perhaps the most adventurous option is buying and converting a van on your own. Building a van conversion from the ground up requires hours of research, lots of patience, and moderate levels of handiness.

Fortunately, there are a lot of videos on YouTube I can assist you and get started. With that said, it’s not uncommon for a complete van conversion to take up to a year to finish. This, of course, depends on how much time you have to work on your DIY van conversion project. If you choose to go this route, there is no shortage of inspiration on Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.

2. Use A Custom Van Conversion Company

Hiring a van conversion company is likely the best way to get what you want in a van conversion without relying on your own abilities. Depending on which company you choose, the options you include in your van build are almost endless.

Some of the builds produced by these companies are downright amazing! Even better, you can usually get EXACTLY what you want in every nook and cranny, making this the ultimate option for quality and customization.

As you can imagine, a ground-up custom van conversion is not cheap. If you go this route, chances are you will end up spending as much, if not more, than you otherwise would when buying a factory-built camper van, which is what we will cover next.

3. Buy A Cammper Van

If you have procrastinated your van life dreams and left the critical task of getting your perfect camper van until the very end, don’t worry. We have you covered. You can always buy a camper van ready to go straight from the factory. There’s really very little difference between buying one of these and buying an RV.

The downside of going with a factory camper van is that you would pay a premium. You will also have to compromise on any personal customizations you might want, or pony up more money to do those yourself afterward. Aside from those minor downsides, buying new is probably the easiest option to get you on the road in a flash if you have the money but don’t have the time or patients.

Buying Used

A quick search online will also show a large selection of used campervans for sale. Buying a van built by a reputable manufacturer or well-established custom van company has advantages when purchasing used. Automakers produce specific camper van models with published options that can be tracked and valued like any other vehicle. This will help you understand what you are getting ahead of time and easily compare different options when shopping for something used.

On the flip side, be on high alert if you are buying a used DIY conversion from a private party. While these are fun to do on your own, buying from another hobbyist can be a disaster if they didn’t do a good job with the conversion. It is possible you will have endless issues with leaking water, faulty electronics, poor insulation, or other hidden problems you simply will not be able to see. Probably the safest way to value (in our non-expert opinion) a DIY conversion is to base the sale price mostly on the cost of the base vehicle.

You can then calculate the cost of things like visible appliances, solar panels, with a little research and add that to the value of the vehicle. I wouldn’t value DIY hobbyists’ “sweat equity” much beyond the cost of the raw materials to do the build. If the base vehicle is 15k don’t let someone talk you into paying 40k because they built the interior themselves. Use your best judgment and do your research. If the seller seems like they did an amazing and professional conversion and you feel comfortable compensating them for their hard work, go for it!

If you are handy and get excited at the prospect of building something from scratch a DIY camper van conversion could be a fun project for you to take on.

Whether you’re buying a cargo van brand new or looking for something gently used, you can find just about every shape size to meet the needs you have for a full-time living vehicle. Below are seven of the most popular vehicle platforms to use as a blank canvas when building your dream DIY camper van.

 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Mercedes-Benz sprinters are perhaps the most popular and most recognized vans used for DIY conversions. They are also popular van conversion companies to build their unique designs on.

That means that finding gear and other items to complete your DIY conversion is extremely simple. In addition, Mercedes-Benz offers off-roading packages and other attractive options to appeal to DIY van builders.

If you are looking for an excellent vehicle with good reliability that can go for hundreds of thousands of miles, Sprinter is a good option.

Like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, the Ford Transit is one of the most popular vans for DIY conversions. The Ford Transit is roomy, rugged, very versatile. Because it is such a popular vehicle, parts are readily available. It is also relatively easy to find a mechanic to work on them.

Although the most popular version is a medium wheelbase, the Ford Transit also comes in a long wheelbase and an extended wheelbase. This allows one to build out even more living space.

Along with the different wheelbase options, budget-friendliness can be added to the list of pros. The Transit makes your build-out a little easier with a square-shaped cargo area, something it shares in common with the next van we will cover, the Ram ProMaster.

The Ram ProMaster is not as well-known as the other options for building a camper van like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter or the Ford Transit. Even so, the Ram ProMaster can be a bargain compared to more popular alternatives.

One of the advantages of the Ram ProMaster is that it has an optimized storage design and a square-shaped cargo area. This means you end up with a lot of usable space that is easy to build out.

On top of the excellent cargo space the ProMaster provides, the vehicle also has excellent gas mileage for a cargo van. So if you’re interested in maximizing your budget and don’t have a strong preference for which car you get, the Ram ProMaster is probably the best choice for your project.

Quietly rising in popularity over the years, the Nissan NV Cargo Van is a popular midsize budget-friendly choice for DIY van conversions.

Although the Nissan has smaller available cargo areas, a Sprinter or Transit is also less expensive on average. These cost savings will beef up the budget to put back into your DIY conversion.

In the conversation about the absolute best base vehicle for a camper van conversion, the Ford Transit is probably the only option that comes close to mimicking the many successes of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. In fact, across the board, the specs of the Transit (and its available sub-models) are extremely similar to the Sprinter — offering a range of heights, wheelbase lengths, and cargo capacities.

The Sprinter has the edge in some cases, like maximum capacity, whereas the Transit has the leg-up elsewhere, as can be seen in the maximum MPG rating. We’re not saying that they are a one-to-one carbon copy, but if you’re a fan of domestic vehicles, it’s absolutely a suitable alternative to its German competitor.

You’ll just want to make sure, especially if you plan to use a kit or standardized models, that you’re not simply trying to shoehorn Sprinter-intended gear into your Transit.

Sadly, the Volkswagen Crafter Panel Van isn’t available in the United States. Still, it’s definitely a viable and, frankly, pretty upscale option for your camper van DIY conversion. In fact, this van is so well designed that it actually won Parkers’ Best Van of the Year award for its superb combination of utility, versatility, and standard creature comforts.

What really helps set this bad boy apart, as well, is its integrated driver assistance technologies, including an emergency braking system that will help you avoid collisions, a bevy of sensors to help with situational awareness (especially helpful when parking), and something called Cross Wind Assist, which helps keep your van on the road in the case of, you guessed it, strong gusts of wind.

It’s a pricy starting option for those who can access it, but you can plainly see that the money would be well-spent.

School Bus 

If you want to take it to the next level and don’t want to compromise much on space, a School bus will give you endless freedom to design the perfect living space on the road. These vehicles are incredibly durable, have a LOT of living space, and look super cool when customized.

There’s room for a fireplace, a full kitchen, a large bedroom, and almost anything else you can dream up. In addition, many school busses have storage bonus storage areas underneath.

If there is a downside to a school bus, it definitely costs more to operate. In addition, it is much larger than other vehicles. Getting to those out-of-the-way remote camping spots or finding parking in the city might be out of the question.

Let’s face it, many of us simply don’t have the skills or the patience to take on a DIY camper van project. The good news is that many other companies are willing to tackle that challenge, so you don’t have to.

As the popularity of Van life has grown over the last decade, many companies have stepped up to produce some fantastic, modern, and even luxurious camper vans you can buy today. Check out 16 of our favorites!

There is perhaps no brand more embedded in the life of camping trailers in the US than Airstream. Fortunately, the company isn’t afraid to diversify. Check out Interstate 24X, Airstream’s flagship camper van that takes the motorhome to the next level. Built on the foundation of a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, like many models on this list, it has everything you need to live comfortably.

Airstream has gone to great lengths to maximize space in its air-conditioned cabin. A modular dining table doubles as a desk. It can easily be converted into the largest sleeping area of ​​a class B camper van. There is also a full mini-kitchen and bathroom.

You can cruise down the freeway in style or take this all-terrain van off-roading. In addition to the 3.0-liter turbodiesel V6 with 188 hp and 325 lb-ft of torque also comes with all-wheel drive, a height-adjustable suspension, and all-terrain tires. Prices for the versatile dream mobile start at $213,850.

Jayco Terrain 4×4

Jayco is best known for its enormous travel trailers, but like the Airstream, it can also make things compact enough to fit in a parking space.

The American company’s new all-terrain vehicle, which starts at $192,000, is an adventure camper van designed for those who like to exit the pavement and get out into the wild.

As the name suggests, the Jayco is built for off-roading. It comes with an off-road capable V6 diesel engine, Koni shock absorbers, rear stabilizer. It has a robust towing package to accommodate a trailer if you need more space.

Inside is on the smaller side compared to some of the other options. Still, its kitchenette can be converted into a sleeping area with room for a double bed, plus plenty of storage space. There’s even a built-in porch for when you need shade during the summer months.

Storyteller Overland’s newest offering is a proper adventure truck. Beast Mode 4X4 is the manufacturer’s most feature-rich outfit. The Best Mode is designed for Overlanding (a fancy name for taking the scenic dirt-road route instead of driving on the highway or freeway).

The Best Mode is an extremely capable 4×4 powered by a 188-horsepower turbodiesel V6! This is plenty of power to accommodate a towing payload of 5,000 pounds.

Along with a classic/retro paint scheme, this beast is stacked with plenty of proper off-road goodies. It comes with an LED lighting package, roof rack, side ladders, and custom wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich K02 tires.

Inside, you’ll find everything you need to unwind after a day of exploring, including a comfortable lounge that converts into a full-sized sleeping area. There’s even an air conditioning system to make sure you stay comfortable no matter the weather outside. This offroad comfort awesomeness comes with an equally grand price tag of just under 200k for everything listed above.

Motor homes tend to be smaller than full-size camper trailers, but if you want a camper van with maximum space to stretch out in, Loef has your back. The company’s latest luxury sedan stretches 24 feet end-to-end and tops out at around 9 feet high.

The Loef’s roomy cabin has space for a full gallery, bathroom, and entertainment area that can be converted into an ample sleeping room. There is plenty of welcoming space to slide into once the night’s celebrations are over. The sliding grill built right into the back door combines evening food prep with good weather and amazing outdoor views. Even cooking is luxurious!

While the main advantage of the $150,000 camper van is its luxurious interior, the 2.0-liter turbodiesel ensures you’ll have enough power to take you on any road.

Thor Motor Coach Sanctuary is a camper van for people who want it all, without compromise. The company took MercedesBenz’s extremely popular Sprinter 2500 4×4 and turned it into something you can easily live in full time. With the 4×4 capabilities and creature comforts, you can freely explore anywhere your heart wants to roam.

The all-terrain vehicle is available in two configurations: The first is the 19P ($148,680) with a rear seat that converts to a bed. The second option is the 19L ($151,060) and a larger, non-convertible double bed. There’s plenty of room for other amenities, including a bathroom, an entertaining area with a kitchen with a sink, TV, double-burner cooktop, convection microwave, and refrigerator even with the bed.

An Onan 2500 LP generator also keeps everything running, including an air-conditioning system that you can run continuously for eight hours. There is even a retractable electric awning for when you want to spend time outside enjoying the view.

If the Mercedes Sprinter isn’t your thing, finding a decent camper van can be challenging. Fortunately, the Italian automaker Fiat has you covered with the Ducato minivan. The Ducato starts at $48,000 is an excellent base for anyone looking to build a compact camper van of their own.

Available in four different wheelchair types – 9.8, 11.3, 12.5, and 13.2 feet – you can customize everything you want to take on the road, including an entertainment/sleeping area and a kitchen.

There are also several powertrain options to choose from. The more beefy engine produces 180 horsepower paired with a manual transmission (it is Italian)! Fiat plans to make an electric version soon as well.

Airstream isn’t the only well-known RV manufacturer getting into the camper van game. Winnebago makes several models as well. Our favorite is the Boldt.

While it’s not as long as one of its campers, the $230,276 camper van has everything you’d expect from a larger vehicle. Some amenities include a living area, dedicated sleeping quarters, a fully functional kitchen, and a bathroom equipped with a shower.

There are also several interior design options, each offering an update on classic Winnebago styling. Boldt is designed for paved roads and campsites. If you want to take your adventures off-road, check out the all-terrain Revel.

A quick look at Sportsmobile’s Sprinter 4×4 camper van shows that the van maker wanted to cater to offroading. The 12-foot and 14-foot options are built on Mercedes-Benz’s super popular Sprinter van. This vehicle is equipped with a 3.0-liter BlueTec V6 connected to an automatic transmission and 188 HP and 325 ft-lbs torque.

The Sportsmobile should be enough to take on the most challenging terrain with those impressive specs. Inside, you will find a spacious living space with a full kitchen. If you want more rooms, you can also choose a context night area that will help you quickly get used to it.

If that isn’t enough, the conversion also includes a “Pentament” expandable roof, LED lighting, snorkel plugs, and reinforced wheels and tires.

When a camper van builder has the cajónes to call one of their products an “ultimate” of anything, the build should have the credentials to back it up. Luckily, Sportsmobile does just that with its Ultimate Adventure camper van.

It starts with the Ford E350 cargo van platform. It then turns the dial to 11 with a long list of offroad capabilities and comfort amenities. The upgrades include 4×4, larger tires, engine upgrades, suspension lift, and upgrades, just to name a few.

The Ultimate Adventure Vehicle also comes with a roof rack and a pop-up penthouse for extra room. It also has a carrying case for all gear you don’t necessarily want inside. Lastly, the ultimate can fit several full-grown adults with its large interior without getting too cramped.

If you’re struggling to find a camper van that will meet all of your needs, the Glampervan might be worth considering. Starting with the Ram Promaster 136 as a base, Glampervan will customize to meet your needs and make all of your wildest van life dreams come true.

The Fully Furnished Edition starts at around $80,000. It features a spacious interior with a fully equipped kitchen, plenty of storage space, and a seating area that converts into a bed.

The Glampervan is powered by a capable 3.6-liter V6 engine pushing out a solid 280hp and 260 lb-ft of torque. This camper van includes many off-road accessories, including off-road tires.

If you like Fiat but your needs lean more toward the luxurious, you should direct your attention towards Hymercar’s Camper Van.

These luxury pop-top camper vans are on the smaller side but don’t let that turn you away. These vans are an excellent choice for two people wanting something suited ideally for their needs.

The Hymer features an expandable layout for sleeping comfort, enough room to keep two adults comfy, and a bonus option of onboard bathrooms. Hymercar also includes a refrigerator and freezer to keep your food cool and fresh.

Even if you’re not necessarily a Fiat fanatic, you can swap out the chassis for the Mercedes-Benz Grand Canyon S.

It might be stretching it to call Tiger products “adventure trucks,” but they don’t quite fit the RV genre. Partly because of their size, but also because of their abilities. These beefy monsters are more capable than most factory-made SUVs and pickup trucks.

These monstrous camper homes are handcrafted in South Carolina. They include a fully stocked kitchen, toiletries, spacious floor plan, storage space, exterior offroad goodies, and more.

The Tiger is available in three sizes. Namely, the Bengal, Maya, and Siberia – each of which is larger and a little more capable than the last.

One of the most exciting things about Outside Van services is their flexibility in their configuration options. Their custom van packages start with a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van as the base. They then build the van with various feature packages, including a long list of customization options.

If you don’t need much and are looking for the basics, you can simply choose one of Core Van’s offers and get everything you need to get you and your companions on the road. Plan to spend a minimum of 100k, including the price to pick up when complete.

If you have enough cash and aren’t in a hurry, Outside Van also offers customization options entirely dedicated to adventure camper vans. That means you can get one built to your exact specifications (after choosing options from their long list of available upgrades).

There is no rule stating that inner elegance and outer courage are mutually exclusive – as evidenced by this offering from RB Components. This powerful adventure camper van is built on the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van (the most popular sponsor vehicle for adventure conversions). Still, the similarities to the original van only stop at the silhouette.

This upgraded version features a 3000-watt electrical system, solar panels, a 69-gallon freshwater system, a custom stainless steel enclosed shower with hot water, an electric awning, a bamboo wood table, and an outdoor BBQ – and that’s the shortlist.

It also comes with sturdy Toyo off-road tires, air springs, and a snorkel plug that’s perfect for navigating through river crossings.

If it’s the Ritz-Carlton luxury adventure van you’re after, you might want to check out the Roadtrek Zion.

To begin with, this 5-star hotel on wheels has 42 cubic feet of storage space, a roof-mounted air conditioning system, instant hot water system to power the sink, toilet, and shower on board. It also has enough roof room for a pair of bikes and/or kayaks, solar charging. It also has an HD TV on board for entertainment.

Boho is a camper van customization company that produces unique, all-wooden customizations. The Arizona company takes a base model like ao Ram Promaster and does a gound-up conversion applying a healthy dose of inspiration all along the way.

Antero Adventure Motors makes camper vans love to travel off the beaten path. They are very well suited for windy country roads, forests, and anywhere else your Overlanding adventures will take you.

You’ll hear many words ending with “ility” when buying your first Antero Adventure Motor vehicle. “Usability, flexibility, and durability” are some of this brand’s proudest traits, fitted into powerful, spacious vans. In addition, they come with unique off-the-grid systems that make long journeys a breeze.

You’ll want to take a moment to put some pen to paper and dream up your perfect camper van before talking to Benchmark. These camper vans are 100% custom-designed for your needs, from floor plans to colors, textures, and small extras. No matter how outlandish your idea is, Benchmark Vehicles can turn it into a reality.

There are some things you should consider long before you pony up the cash or sign up for a loan on any significant purchase. Things can be a little different when you buy a van for a DIY conversion or an RV camper van. For starters, Sprinter vans come in a variety of sizes with different lengths, heights, and power train options to choose from.

With this in mind, we put together a few key points to cover so you can be sure to end up with the right vehicle for your needs and make the most of your investment.

1. Price & Budget

We recommend the first thing you do is decide on the budget you have for your band. Having a clear understanding of your budget will help you narrow down auctions that are within reach. Of course, if budget isn’t your concern at all this opens out endless possibilities for you!

I’ll probably the most important purchase the cost of the van is just the first in a long list of other purchases you’ll need to make sure your vehicle is ready to go adventuring.

Because the cost of one of these vehicles new can be is out-of-reach considering the other purchases that need to be made, most people choose to buy a used vehicle as their first van. 

For some vehicles like the diesel-powered Mercedes Sprinter, buying used isn’t a problem given these vehicles are designed for heavy usage. 

Diesel engines are very durable and can operate for hundreds of thousands of miles if taken care of. On the flip side buying a sprinter van new off the lot can really expensive, easily between 50 and $100,000. 

Choosing to buy the same van that is five or six years old can save a lot of money for other things you want to purchase.

Chances are the size of the vehicle is generally the same whether it is brand new or 5 years old because the interior of cargo vans doesn’t change a lot year-over-year.

2. Inside Living Space

You will definitely need to consider using internal space when considering a camper van.

You should also be considering just how much time you plan to spend in your van. If you want to just use it on weekends, a shorter/smaller option might meet your needs.

However, if you want longer trips or live in your van permanently, size will definitely matter. A bigger, more comfortable van could be the better bet in this situation.

Cargo Area – Width

You can usually determine the interior width of the cargo area based on the wheelbase of the van. Most manufacturers will also publish measurements of their cargo vans as many companies buying them will want to know specifics. Obviously, a wider van will offer more internal living space and will also provide a slight increase in stability when driving on the road.

Cargo Area – Height

If you are on the taller side, the height of your van can mean the difference between standing up straight or not. If you plan to live in your van full-time, trust us, you will want to be able to stand up straight inside!

One downside of having an extremely tall van is that it will increase how “top-heavy” your vehicle is. This will make it a little more difficult to drive on uneven roads or in windy conditions. A tall van will also make parking in the city, or even driving under some bridges a problem.

Cargo Area – Length

Mini cargo vans come in multiple lengths, from short, medium, and extra long. This can mean the difference between having the storage you need internally versus externally.

It can also affect the amenities you include in your van. For example, having a longer van would provide the room to accommodate a full shower, something you might want if privacy is a big concern.

Cargo Area – Shape

Another thing to consider is the shape of the cargo area. For example, do the walls go straight up vertically, or do they taper inward towards the top?

A square or rectangle cargo area will generally have plumb sidewalls and will generally be as wide at the top as they are at the bottom. A good example of this is the Ram ProStar. Having a square interior can make doing your own custom DIY build a little easier and will also provide a more usable area for upper cabinets or storage nooks. On the outside, vans like this will look more like a box which may not be quite as appealing as the sleek-looking Sprinter vans which are narrower at the top than the bottom.

Tapered At The Top

If your van is narrower at the top you will need to accommodate for this in the way you build cabinetry or utilize the upper areas of the living space. A narrower top will also yield a little less space on the roof for solar panels or that custom roof deck you have always dreamed about.

On the plus side, tapered vans will likely get a little better gas mileage and they are generally more aesthetically pleasing than a square cargo van. This is of course, up to personal preference though.

3. External Storage

For most vans, external storage is not going to be a problem. Most use a combination of roof storage and rear-mounted storage mounted either on the doors or using the towing hitch.

Keep in mind that you will probably use part of the roof area for solar panels. The other solar option is to not use portable solar panels instead, however, doing so will limit your ability to charge when your vehicle is stationary and you have the solar panels out.

4. Towing A Trailer

In addition to internal and external storage, you may want to pull a trailer with your van or mount an external rack

Pulling a trailer might require a more heavy-duty engine end drivetrain to pull something heavy. For example, some vans are front-wheel drive and could lose traction when towing a trailer.

5. Weight Capacity

Suppose you plan to carry a lot of weight, like extra water, heavy equipment, or additional passengers. Maybe you are traveling with a small family and need an extra cargo trailer for all of your gear. In cases like this, you may want to consider a van with a higher weight capacity.

Most first-time DIY van builders are not aware of the capacity of their vehicles. Many times just completing the internal build, we’ll come close to reaching the maximum weight capacity of a standard cargo van.

Heavy-duty vans are commonly called “dualies” and can be spotted easily by the double wheels in the back. Dualies are designed to carry and tow a lot more than a standard cargo van.

Duallies usually have an upgraded axle, drivetrain, and engine. As you probably guessed, dualie vans will cost more to purchase and drive.

If you plan to buy an extra-large van, you’re likely to exceed the weight capacity with all of the cool stuff you put in it. Because of this, you may want to consider a “dually” just to be safe and make room for extra cargo.

Engine Choice

Let’s get this out of the way quickly, your van will be slow, and it will get a lot of fuel. In the future, electric vehicles will make this fact a little bit different, but it is what it is for now.

With that out of the way, let’s talk about a few things to consider that make a difference. Clear Choice in the engine can affect other things.

These things include the vehicle’s capability, the price you pay for fuel, how easily you can refuel, sustainability, and how easy it is to maintain your vehicle.

Diesel Engines

Diesel vehicles generally cost less per mile to fuel, and they offer tremendous performance when towing or carrying heavy loads, especially when you were just starting out.

This is because of the torque provided by diesel engines. Although diesel is a prevalent fuel, sometimes smaller gas stations won’t offer diesel fueling.

Most diesel engines in cargo vans come with a turbo and a smaller capacity engine. This improves the performance while making better gas mileage but having a turbo introduces another important component of the engine that could potentially go wrong and require maintenance.

Gas Engines

Gas/Petroleum powered engines are the most common. If you want the easiest to maintain and find fuel for, it is probably best to stick with an unleaded gas-powered engine.

While gas-powered engines don’t offer the low-end torque and longevity of diesel engines. The good news is that you will never have a problem finding someone to work on your van if you have an issue.

Electrice Engines

Electric vehicles are an exciting option but still a budding market for 2022. We do not recommend choosing an electric vehicle for full-time living especially if you want to venture into remote areas. They simply don’t offer the range or the refueling options to be a realistic do-it-all option.

Of course, this all changes if you plan to live in or near a city or at least near a reliable power source. In fact, if city-dwelling is your primary use case, an electric option might be perfect! Electric vehicles have substantial battery capacity. When plugged into a charging station can provide the ultimate in comfortable van living.

6. Vehicle Use & Driving Conditions

Front wheel drive.

Some vans offer front-wheel-drive. This can be a good choice for someone not experienced handling a rear-wheel-drive vehicle, which can sometimes behave differently in the snow or gravel when things get loose.

In addition, a front-wheel-drive van can be easier to maneuver and might handle a little better on the paved road. When it comes to off-road driving or pulling a trailer, a rear-wheel-drive van is much better suited especially if there is wight in the cargo area (like your DIY build).

Rear Wheel Drive

This is probably the most common setup for camper vans and is what we would recommend going with if you have any plans to drive off-road, have a heavier rig, or want to pull a trailer. The reason mostly has to do with weight distribution and traction.

A heavier van or a trailer will put more weight on the rear tires and less weight on the front tires. More weight will increase the traction on a rear-wheel-drive vehicle but will reduce the traction on a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

Four-Wheel Drive (4×4)

Four-wheel-drive is a bonus option available in select cargo van models, like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

With the right AT tires, most rear-wheel-drive cargo vans will have no problem in moderate show or dirt. This is because they are weighed down, and that extra weight translates to excellent traction.

If you want to kick it up a notch and give yourself the best chance to get to almost anywhere, you will be best served by a 4×4 van.

Adding a four-wheel-drive powertrain to your build will definitely decrease your fuel economy. On the upside, you will probably never find yourself missing out on an adventure because your van can’t get there.

Are camper vans worth the money?

People who enjoy traveling at low cost and without a specific plan will love camper vans and feel they are worth it. It all comes down to lifestyle and how often you use your camper van. Some people live in camper vans full-time and save loads of money because they don’t have to pay for a house or an apartment.

Which is the best camper van to buy?

Some of the best motorhomes to buy come from Airstream, Mercedes Benz, Winnebago, and Thor Motor Coach. Most cargo van builders offer multiple lengths, wheel-base options

What is the most reliable campervan?

Some of the most reliable camper vans come from Winnebago, Ford, Mercedes Benz, and Airstream. Ford and Mercedes-Benz build cargo vans to handle the abuse of daily delivery so they are well suited for taking the easy life as a camper van.

What is the most economical camper van?

Winnebago Rialta and Boho Camper Conversion are two of the most economical camper vans.

Is a DIY van conversion the best van to live in full time?

Definitely not if you’re on a budget, there are plenty of great options. Just show up with cash in hand and choose what you want. One of the benefits of building your own DIY conversion is controlling every aspect of your life experience. Plus, if something goes wrong, you’re the expert at fixing it!

How much does a DIY van conversion cost?

A typical modern motor conversion typically costs between $5,000 and $15,000. This is usually enough to build a comfortable living area with basic home-like amenities. The most expensive part of the build is usually electricity, people usually spend at least $1,500-$ 4,000 for a decent-sized off-grid solar installation.

Which wheelbase is best for a camper van?

Cargo vans come in three different wheelbases. A longer wheelbase makes it harder to maneuver. The long-wheelbase is harder to park and isn’t very nimble off the beaten path for those who love Overlanding. If you want to do more Overlanding in sketchy areas or are concerned about parking choose a 140″ wheelbase. Otherwise, a larger wheelbase will give more options for customization and storage.

Is it hard to drive a sprinter camper van?

Be conscious of your vehicle’s height-to-wheelbase ratio. This is especially true if you plan to travel into remote areas with unpredictable wind patterns or uneven road conditions.

Many mountain or backcountry roads are not particularly well-maintained. They can lean off-camber on the flat or around turns without notice which can cause your van to lean and potentially tip over.

Cargo vans and RVs can have a high center of gravity and are not immune to tipping over. This is especially true if they are weighted down with solar panels, lighting, and other gear on the roof. One of the best ways to make sure you don’t tip over is to drive conservatively and be aware of your surroundings, including where your wheels are in relation to other obstacles in the road.

Another good way to keep your van rubber-side-up is to be a disciplined driver and avoid distractions when traveling at higher speeds. Whether you are looking at your phone or talking to passengers, distractions can prove disastrous and end your van life dream in a hurry.

Unlike ordinary passenger vehicles, large cargo vans do not handle swerving well. They will quickly lose control and flip over if you swerve suddenly at even medium speeds.

Is it hard to park a sprinter camper van in the city?

If you plan to travel in the city, choosing the right van size can be a critical decision to get right. For example, if you want to park on the street regularly, having an extra-long van will likely limit your options. In addition, if your van is really tall like most vans probably will be, public parking structures will be problematic.

This is because underground and above-ground parking ceilings are usually only 7′ and way too short for a camper van. Even if you get into one of these structures, maneuvering around will probably be a huge problem.

Will my HOA let me park my sprinter camper van at home?

The HOA rules are another thing to consider if you plan to park your vehicle in a neighborhood or even at home when you’re not using it. Simply put, some apartment complexes, condominium communities, and even residential communities restrict the size and length of vehicles. Some extreme cases require that you park your automobile in your garage, which would be a showstopper for any camper van.

Take a look at the best shower ideas for you campervan and get inspiration from others who have done their own Van conversions

Our buyer’s guide covers the best modern portable solar panels for RVs, Camper Vans, and more. Zamp, Renogy, Goal Zero, WindyNation, Dokio.

One of the best ways to instantly increase your camper van’s livable area and get yourself outside breathing fresh air and mingling with other van lifers is to add an awning to your van. There are a lot of cool and innovative awnings on the market this year, and we have really enjoyed researching all of them to build our buyer’s guide list.

Want to live the van life through all 4 seasons? Consider our top picks for the best diesel heaters for campervans.

With the DIY camper van scene in full-tilt, and many main-stream RV makers producing high-end camper vans, now is an exciting time to consider living in one of these amazing vehicles full-time.   Ready to start your retro van lifestyle or a modern 21st-century van-dweller life? Check out our ultimate top 25 list of the best camper vans to call home thie year.

Ready to go all-in on Vanlife or off-grid living? Convert solar energy into electricity with these off-grid solar generators.

Portable power stations offer a wide range of ports and jack and outlet selection. They are an all-in-one solution to keep your power tools, phone, and other electronics charged and running smoothly. A portable power station is a cousin to larger generators but is a versatile, lunch-box-size power bank. Along with portability, these power stations generally work with portable solar panels to provide a virtually endless electricity supply.

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I spent years considering van life and finally embarked on a 2-week trip last fall. 5 months later, I'm still dreaming of the lifestyle.

• The concept of van life has intriqued me for years. 
• I've interviewed dozens of nomads who encouraged others to try van life with shorter trips.
• I did just that. After two weeks in a van, I still dream of living on the road.

Last summer, I stepped outside my dew-covered tent in Bryce Canyon National Park after a night of tossing and turning.

Before I could process the vibrant sunset, the first thought that crossed my mind was how the knots in my back wouldn't exist if I had slept on a mattress.

The spring before that, I woke up sweaty at the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival , craving a Glacier Freeze Gatorade that spent all night cooling in a fridge.

Sandwiched between those nights in tents are countless early-morning hikes and late nights stargazing, where I wished the comforts of my home were feet away instead of miles away.

Those desires could be answered with van life — especially since the version of van life I saw scrolling on Instagram and TikTok seemed to fit my outdoorsy lifestyle.

While not everyone who lives in their car does it by choice — vehicular homelessness is on the rise across the United States — there is a growing population of people who choose to live out of cars, vans, and RVs. Fueled by the pandemic and rising costs of living , more people are trading their houses and apartments for vehicles. In fact, Allied Market Research reported that the global RV market was valued at $57.3 billion in 2021 and could reach $117 billion by 2031.

Last October, it was my turn to test out the lifestyle.

Instead of diving head-first into the lifestyle, I gave it a test drive

Since becoming a reporter at Business Insider, I've profiled dozens of nomads living in RVs, vans, travel trailers, and tiny homes on wheels .

Interview after interview, conversation after conversion, one piece of advice constantly popped up.

"I would recommend trying to rent a van for at least a week or two," Maddy Garrett , a 25-year-old who moved into a Subaru Outback and recently upgraded to a Ram ProMaster, previously told BI. "After that, it's like, 'OK, I know I can do this.'"

The lifestyle has its downsides — bathrooms and campsites can be tough to find, people can struggle to find community, and not everyone is built to live in a state of flux.

For some, the positives outweigh the negatives. For others, the advantages don't come out on top.

As someone who has a habit of romanticizing everyday tasks like neighborhood walks and grocery shopping, a test run felt required before uprooting my life and emptying my bank account.

Last summer, I began planning a two-week trip in a campervan. Two weeks was enough time to test out camping in RV resorts, on public land, and in parking lots outside Cracker Barrel and Walmart .

I could grocery shop and cook meals while balancing long days driving with isolated days hiking.

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I knew two weeks wasn't enough to experience every aspect of van life. For example, my biggest hesitation is a fear of getting lonely on the road — which is something I knew I wouldn't face in a two-week period.

But I hoped two weeks could give me insight into whether it would be a lifestyle I could explore more in the future.

I rented a Ram ProMaster for two weeks and covered six states

As I eyed different campervan rental companies, Native Campervans caught my eye. The rental company has four locations, with a hub in Denver. This meant I wouldn't need to fly during my trip.

Plus, the company's vans were what I dreamed of when I pictured van life. I rented a Ram ProMaster, and at about 75 square feet , it was plenty of space for one person while still being small enough to fit in an everyday parking spot.

In October, the rental company handed over a set of keys. I was visiting an array of destinations — deserts, mountains, forests, and cities — and I packed for each place. Plus, I had my outdoor gear and grocery shopped at Costco days before. Simply put, I had overpacked.

Seeing my nearly dozen bags fit in the van with space to spare eliminated my first fear of van life — that there wouldn't be enough space to live. I decided I could manage full-time with 75 square feet.

After I unpacked, I climbed into the front seat and set off toward New Mexico.

For the next two weeks, I explored America's Southwest. I drove through small mountain towns, sat in traffic in major cities like Las Vegas, and discovered remote campsites on public land .

I fell in love with the freedom the van gave me. If I was hungry, I pulled over and made breakfast. If I was tired, I found a quiet place to nap. If I was itching for a hike, all I had to do was pull up a map and find a place to explore.

I saw striking landscapes that I could've never seen on a weekend trip from Denver. I met fascinating people who were eager to share their life stories. And I discovered more about myself.

I dropped off my van and left with more interest in the lifestyle

After romanticizing the lifestyle for so long, my biggest fear with the trip was that it'd extinguish my longing for van life.

If anything, it did the opposite.

I arrived back home exhausted and with some lessons learned. I never need to travel that fast again — six states in two weeks is about five states too many, in my opinion.

Cooking extravagant meals and baking will be hobbies I leave behind if I do live a nomadic life — I haven't seen many vans equipped with ovens.

And I still fear I'll get lonely after spending months bopping from location to location.

But beyond that, I experienced the appeal so many describe, and I'm eager to try it out again. This time, though, I might leave my apartment for a month or two.

Watch: How one couple turned their pickup truck into a DIY camper

• Main content

I packed for a 2-week vacation in a van using tips from people who live in one full time. It made my journey so much smoother.

Posted: December 17, 2023 | Last updated: December 18, 2023

• I embarked on a two-week van trip and turned to the experts for packing advice.
• People living out of vans, RVs, and travel trailers gave me some tips.
• They suggested I pack a way to jumpstart the van, and do my best to avoid overpacking. 

Packing for my first van trip didn't start the night before, or even two days ahead of time — it was closer to two weeks before my van adventure.

That's because I wanted to make sure I'd be prepared for all that I would encounter along the road . And part of that preparation involved asking people living out of vans what I should be packing.

They delivered with their advice, so I'm passing on their packing tips for anyone else planning a similar trip.

With limited water on the road, one person recommended that I bring a collapsible water jug on my van trip.

The van I'd rented for two weeks came from the rental company Native Campervans . Thankfully, the 75-square-foot space had practically everything I needed. There was a stove, sink, bed, and plenty of room for storage.

The van also had a seven-gallon tank for water. While some vans are equipped with much larger tanks, I figured stopping to fill it up with water a few times throughout my trip wouldn't be too challenging.

But Christian Schaffer , who has lived in a van for more than four years, advised bringing a collapsible water jug. She said I might use more water than I predicted, so having a few backup gallons could help me avoid a stop or two.

"A thing that's kind of helpful is those big collapsible water jugs that you can fill up just so that you have extra to go off-grid," Schaffer, 38, told BI. "And they pack down really small when you're not using them."

While Casey Hogan said it might seem obvious to travel with a first-aid kit, she said she often sees people without one.

Casey Hogan , a 31-year-old living in a 2019 Ford Transit, reminded me that van life can feel similar to camping. Plus, I'd be doing activities like hiking and climbing, where things could go wrong.

Hogan said she always packs with emergencies in mind. "I always travel with and hike with the first aid kit," Hogan said.

That way, she's prepared if something goes awry out in the wilderness.

Others said emergency items like a portable jump starter and an external battery are essential.

Navod McNeil told BI that he also considers safety when it comes to packing for a van trip in his Ford Transit.

The 30-year-old said that there have been plenty of times when something went wrong with his van, and one common problem was a dead battery.

So he started packing a portable jump starter for his van trips. This way, he doesn't need to rely on AAA or a stranger with jumper cables to save the day.

I have a portable jump starter in my everyday car, which I bought on Amazon for $60 . I might have forgotten to pack it if McNeil didn't remind me.

Beyond that, McNeil said he always has an external battery, so he can still access electricity if his van's power were to fail.

One traveler suggested that I download movies and music to my laptop, phone, or iPad.

Often in remote destinations, there isn't cell service, and depending on your van and WiFi setup, you might be without service for days on end, Maddy Garrett , 25, told BI.

With that in mind, Garrett always has a few playlists, podcasts, and movies downloaded on her devices.

While Garrett said disconnecting from the outside world is a major perk of van life, there are still times when you'll want a solo movie night or music for those long, service-less drives.

Don't forget to pack whatever you want to use to document your trip.

Zach Nelson , a 23-year-old living in a Sprinter van, recommends packing items that will make it easy to document the adventure, whether you prefer to write in a journal or snap pictures on a film camera.

"You definitely need a way to document it, whether it's a Polaroid film camera or even just your phone," Nelson said.

A 25-year-old living in her van swears by her reusable pee cloth.

Garrett said her Kula cloth has been a game changer when it comes to using the restroom with van life. The $20 item is an antimicrobial, reusable pee cloth that's easy to carry on trips.

I'm a frequent hiker and backpacker, and I've had my eye on a Kula cloth for a long time. And since my van wasn't going to have a bathroom, Garrett said it was the ideal time to buy one.

"It just makes your life easier because you could stop and pee on the side of the road at any time," she said.

Plus, a pee cloth would mean that I wouldn't have to worry for two weeks about throwing away used toilet paper, she said, adding that "it's literally the best thing in the whole world."

Most people encouraged me to prepare for the weather.

Multiple people said that traveling in a van would mean needing to adapt to the weather.

"You have to understand whatever is going on outside will probably affect you on the inside," Brittany Newson , a 36-year-old living in a travel trailer, told BI.

Whether it's rain, snow, or heat, everyone agreed I should pack with that in mind.

Sierra Fernald , 23, said I shouldn't only consider the weather, but how I handle it. Fernald said she hates the cold and there were times in her Ram ProMaster van when it felt impossible to get out of her warm bed in the morning. So she invested in warmer clothes and a heater to make those chilly mornings easier.

"Definitely prepare for the weather, and maybe over-prepare a little bit," she said.

And while it might be tempting to overpack, multiple people encouraged me to keep things light.

Multiple people said I wouldn't want to live and travel in a crowded van, so they encouraged me to evaluate if and how I was going to use every item I packed.

"Come in with the bare minimums and see how you like to live in the space," Newson said. "Then you will see what it is that you would need in order to be happy."

Worst-case scenario, I could always stop at a store along the way to pick up anything I'd forgotten.

Their tips worked, and I embarked on my two-week trip without leaving anything major behind.

While I did overpack, the people I spoke with shared helpful suggestions that made a drastic difference throughout my trip.

For example, grabbing a first-aid kit and portable jump starter gave me confidence and reassurance throughout the two weeks. And not worrying about used toilet paper thanks to Garrett's Kula cloth suggestion was a major luxury.

While I'd add a few more items to my packing list for a regular road trip , these nomad-approved items will always be tucked into my suitcase for my future van adventures.

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2044 solar eclipse path: See where in US totality hits in next eclipse

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach. here's what to know:.

Millions of Americans are by now eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse , which is only hours away from passing over a large swath of the continent .

But when the celestial event comes and goes, the awe-inspiring impression it leaves on skygazers may leave them with one question: "When can we see that again?"

Unfortunately, we'll have to wait awhile – this sort of spectacular astral phenomenon doesn't happen very often . Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse that will cross over the contiguous U.S.

Solar eclipse glasses: What to know about glasses, safe viewing before the solar eclipse

When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S?

Only seven years have passed since Americans had the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse, a relatively rare celestial event in which the moon appears to us here on Earth to completely block the sun.

The resulting fleeting moments of darkness can last for minutes or just mere seconds and is known as " totality ," whereby the sun's outermost layer known as the corona makes a rare appearance.

Today's total solar eclipse , the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to NASA . According to astronomers, this eclipse will be brighter, will last longer and will be visible to more people than the last one in North America.

It's also the last one for 20 years in the United States.

After Monday, the next total solar eclipse viewable from the lower 48 states will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach .

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

It's not too early to start thinking about where you want to witness it. According to whenisthenexteclipse.com , Americans may want to make sure their passports up to date.

The place to be will likely be Banff National Park in Alberta and Jasper National Park , with Calgary and Edmonton also within the path of totality.

What to know about the 2033 eclipse in Alaska

Outside of the "lower 48," Alaska is set to experience a total solar eclipse much sooner.

On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will occur in Russia and cross over Alaska, according to nationaleclipse.com . The maximum duration of totality for this eclipse will be 2 minutes and 37 seconds.

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Gabe Hauari

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]

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Taiwan earthquake: search for survivors continues into night after nine people killed in quake – as it happened

This live blog is now closed. You can read our latest full report below:

• Nine dead and hundreds injured amid landslides and collapsed buildings
• 5d ago Closing summary
• 5d ago Rescue operations continue into the night, with more than 100 people still trapped
• 6d ago Summary
• 6d ago Nine die and nearly 900 injured in quake, say fire agency
• 6d ago Death toll rises to nine
• 6d ago Death toll rises to seven
• 6d ago Summary of events so far
• 6d ago At least four killed in earthquake
• 6d ago 26 buildings reported "to tilt or collapse"
• 6d ago Philippines cancels tsunami warning
• 6d ago Key points
• 6d ago Japan lifts all tsunami advisories
• 6d ago Reports of 1 dead, 50 injured - Taiwan fire department
• 6d ago Pacific tsunami warning centre says threat passed
• 6d ago Japan tsunami alert downgraded to advisory
• 6d ago 87,000 in Taiwan without power
• 6d ago Aftershocks reported in Taipei
• 6d ago Worst quake since 1999 - Taiwan central weather bureau
• 6d ago Philippines tsunami warning relates to coastal areas
• 6d ago Magnitude revised up - JMA
• 6d ago 10,000 households without power - reports
• 6d ago Epicentre reported as 25km southeast of Hualien
• 6d ago Reports computer chip factory partially evacuated
• 6d ago Reports of damage to houses and water towers - Taiwan
• 6d ago Internet outages reported in Taiwan
• 6d ago Taiwan reports people trapped in buildings - local media
• 6d ago Philippines warns of high tsunami waves
• 6d ago Japan's national broadcaster issues evacuation warning
• 6d ago First images out of Taiwan emerge
• 6d ago Earthquake felt in China - reports
• 6d ago Taiwan reports collapsed buildings
• 6d ago Philippines issues tsunami warning
• 6d ago Japan issues tsunami advisory
• 6d ago Welcome and opening summary

Rescue operations continue into the night, with more than 100 people still trapped

Rescue operations continue into the night as more than 100 people remain trapped in tunnels and in collapsed buildings around Hualien county, near the epicentre of the 7.2-magnitude quake.

About 70 people trapped in tunnels near Hualien city have been evacuated, Taiwan’s national fire agency said.

But authorities lost contact with 50 workers aboard our minibuses heading to a hotel in the Taroko Gorge national park, it said.

At least 64 people were trapped in one rock quarry, and six in another, the fire agency said.

Closing summary

It’s 1am in Taipei. Here’s a recap of the latest developments:

At least nine people have been killed and more than 900 injured in Taiwan’s strongest earthquake in 25 years, which caused buildings to collapse, power outages and landslides on the island.

The quake, which started at 7.58am on Wednesday, struck about 18km south-southwest of Hualien , a city popular with tourists on Taiwan’s eastern coast, and was given a magnitude of 7.2 by Taiwan’s earthquake monitoring agency and 7.4 by the US.

More than 100 people remain trapped in tunnels and in collapsed buildings. The fire agency said 64 people were trapped in one coalmine, and six in another, while rescue workers had lost contact with 50 people who were travelling in minibuses through a national park as the earthquake wiped out phone networks.

Nearly 1,000 tourists and staff were stranded in mountains of Taroko national park in Hualien. Local media reported that three hikers and one driver died after rockslides in the park.

In Hualien city, all residents and businesses in buildings that were in a dangerous state had been evacuated, the mayor Hsu Chen-wei said. Rescuers worked across Hualien county, looking for people who may be trapped and using excavators to stabilize damaged buildings.

In the capital, Taipei, several people were rescued from a partly collapsed warehouse . Strong tremors forced the city’s subway system to close briefly, and damage was visible on some buildings in central Taipei. Aftershocks could still be felt in the capital, with more than 50 recorded, weather officials said.

The quake triggered initial tsunami warnings in southern Japan and the Philippines, but forecasts were later downgraded and lifted. Japan’s meteorological agency warned that aftershocks, with a similar intensity to those felt in Taiwan, may be likely over the next week.

A 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck Taiwan on Wednesday was captured by the cameras in a newsroom during a live broadcast.

As the quake hit, anchors on air carried on delivering the news while the studio was visibly shaken and lights swayed violently overhead.

Taiwan’s president-elect and vice-president, Lai Ching-te, has thanked the president of the European Council, Charles Michel, for his support and condolences.

Posting to social media, Lai wrote:

Taiwan draws strength from your solidarity & friendship during this difficult time and deeply appreciates the support from the EU.

Thank you, @CharlesMichel , for your generous support and condolences. Taiwan draws strength from your solidarity & friendship during this difficult time and deeply appreciates the support from the EU. https://t.co/udxdZ6cHE1 — 賴清德Lai Ching-te (@ChingteLai) April 3, 2024

The US is monitoring the earthquake in Taiwan and is “ready to provide any necessary assistance”, a US national security council spokesperson has said.

A statement from NSC spokesperson Adrienne Watson reads:

We are monitoring reports of the earthquake impacting Taiwan and continue to monitor its potential impact on Japan. The United States stands ready to provide any necessary assistance. All those affected are in our prayers.

One reporter in Taiwan who was heading north towards Hualien after dark on Wednesday evening local time, came across huge holes in the road caused by the earthquake from that morning.

Nathaniel Taplin posted footage moments ago.

Road into #Hualien getting knarlier as we get closer from Taitung pic.twitter.com/8iNs3KK2jK — Nathaniel Taplin (@nate_taplin) April 3, 2024

Meanwhile TV channel TVBS posted a clip of rescue workers trying to clear debris in Hualien, where the earthquake hit hardest.

🚨🇹🇼 Rescue efforts continue following 7.2 quake in #Hualien , #Taiwan : 9 dead, 946 injured, 137 trapped in mountainous regions. #TaiwanEarthquake 💔🙏 pic.twitter.com/gahRjpN359 — TVBS World Taiwan (@tvbsworldtaiwan) April 3, 2024

One person caught up in the earthquake described watching a warehouse crumple like a house of cards on Wednesday and told the Agence France-Presse agency it “was like a mountain collapsed”.

And that was in New Taipei City, near the capital, Taipei, almost 190 miles (300km) from the hardest hit area of Hualien in east central Taiwan .

The witness, named by AFP only as Liu, watched intently as rescuers carefully picked their way through the remains of the warehouse.

Propping ladders against the debris, the rescue workers managed to pluck more than 50 survivors from the destroyed building in New Taipei City. The building was about 60 years old and had housed a printing press, said Liu, who lived next door.

Residents of nearby buildings appeared to be unaffected, though they felt the intense shaking from the morning quake.

Many of the decorations at home fell on the floor, but people were safe. We were very lucky,” said Chang, who lives near the printing press.

New Taipei City mayor Hou Yu-ih surveyed the scene with rescue workers, and told reporters that all 57 people in the building had made it out - with just one injured.

It has just passed 11pm in Taipei and Hualien.

Here is a quick summary of some of the key events so far today:

At least nine people are now reported to have been killed in Taiwan’s earthquake. At least another 900 have been injured.

The earthquake struck at 7:58 am local time , about 18km south-southwest of Hualien. It was about 35 km (21 miles) deep, according to Associated Press

Taiwan’s electricity operator – Taipower- has said more than 87,000 people across the country are now without power, according to the Reuters news agency.

People are trapped in collapsed buildings in Taiwan’s city of Hualien according to local media and the local government has suspended schools and classes in the region.

A witness has told the Reuters news agency that the earthquake was also felt in Shanghai, China. Chinese state media also reported that it was felt in Fuzhou, Xiamen, Quanzhou, Ningde in China’s Fujian province.

At least 64 people were trapped in one rock quarry , not a coalmine as was previously reported, and six in another, the fire agency said.

Authorities also lost contact with 50 people in minibuses after a powerful earthquake quake downed phone networks, Taiwan’s national fire agency said.

The Philippines seismology agency has issued a tsunami warning as well after that strong Taiwan quake, with Philippine coastal areas fronting the Pacific Ocean expected to experience “high tsunami waves”, according to the Reuters news agency. The tsunami warning issued by the Philippine authorities relates to people in coastal areas of the following provinces: the Batanes Group of Islands, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte and Isabela.

The Philippines’ seismology agency later cancelled its tsunami warning, saying “based on available data of our sea level monitoring stations facing the epicentral area , no significant sea level disturbances have been recorded since 07:58am up until this cancellation.”

Japan’s national broadcaster has issued an evacuation order – broadcasting warnings such as “Tsunami is coming. Please evacuate immediately,” an anchor on NHK said. “Do not stop. Do not go back”. This was later downgraded to advisory as the tsunami waves that had arrived by late morning were not as high as forecast.

A tsunami advisory has been issued in southern Japan after a powerful earthquake struck near Taiwan on Wednesday morning, according to Japan’s meteorological agency (JMA). This was later lifted.

Here are some more pictures showing the damage caused by the earthquake:

At least 64 people were trapped in one rock quarry, not a coalmine as was previously reported, and six in another, the fire agency said. The quake and aftershocks also caused 24 landslides and damage to 35 roads, bridges and tunnels, AP reports.

Here is the latest report from our video team on the earthquake in Taiwan . Footage released by the fire department there shows emergency personnel walking through dark corridors while going door to door and calling out to residents.

According to a report from Associated Press, Taiwan’s national fire agency appears to have confirmed that 70 miners are trapped in two coalmines in Hualien County after the earthquake.

Sixty-four people were trapped in one coalmine, and six people were in a different mine, AP reports the agency said.

More details soon …

Here is a clip of CCTV footage which shows a multi-storey building collapsing on a busy street in Hualien as Taiwan was hit by its strongest earthquake in 25 years.

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• Asia Pacific

More on this story

‘People were screaming’: Hualien residents in shock after Taiwan earthquake

Taiwan 7.2 magnitude earthquake – in pictures

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