What Are The Best Vans To Live In Full Time In 2024?
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.
The adventure camper vans of 2024 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.
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Best Vans For Full-Time Living
Three Ways To Get Your Dream Camper 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
- School Bus
- 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
- Boho
- 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)
Best Vans For Full-Time Living
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.
Three Ways To Get Your Dream Camper Van
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
Buying New
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!
Best Camper Vans For DIY Conversion
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.
Ford Transit Cargo Van
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.
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.
Nissan NV Cargo Van
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.
Ford E-Transit Cargo Van
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.
Volkswagen Crafter Panel Van
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.
Best Camper Vans To Buy
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!
Airstream Interstate 24X
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 Beast Mode 4×4
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.
Loef Camper Van
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
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.
Fiat Ducato Base Camper Van
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.
Winnebago Boldt
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.
Sportsmobile Sprinter 4×4
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.
Sportsmobile Ultimate Adventure Vehicle
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.
Glampervan Promaster MUV
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.
Hymercar Camper Vans
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.
Tiger Adventure Vehicles
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.
Outside Van
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).
RB Components Adventure Van
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.
Roadtrek Zion
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
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 Vans
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.
Benchmark Vehicles
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.
How To Choose The Right Camper Van
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?
Square
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.
Dually
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.
Best Vans To Live In – FAQ
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.
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