Thinking about converting a van into a campervan? One of the first — and most important — decisions you’ll make is choosing the right base vehicle. Whether you’re going full-time vanlife or planning weekend escapes, the van you choose sets the foundation for your future adventures.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key factors to consider when selecting a van to convert, and how you can get inspired with a rental, or learn everything step-by-step in our bestselling book: How to Convert a Campervan.

🔑 What to Consider When Choosing a Van to Convert

1. 🚐 Vehicle Size: Bigger Isn’t Always Better

Size is arguably the biggest factor when choosing a van for conversion. There are pros and cons to both small and large vans:

Smaller Vans (e.g. VW T4, Vauxhall Vivaro)
✔️ Easier to drive and park
✔️ Cheaper to buy and maintain
✔️ More fuel-efficient
❌ Limited interior space — especially if you can’t stand up inside

Larger Vans (e.g. Mercedes Sprinter, Fiat Ducato)
✔️ More living and storage space
✔️ Easier to add fixed beds, full kitchens, or bathrooms
❌ Height restrictions in some car parks
❌ Higher running and conversion costs

📌 Tip: Think about how you’ll use your van. Weekend breaks? You might not need a full standing-height build. Long-term travel or vanlife with kids? Space is comfort.

2. 🔍 Make & Model: What’s Under the Badge?

You might be surprised to learn that many popular van models are nearly identical, just rebranded by different manufacturers. For example:

• VW LT35 = Mercedes Sprinter
• Vauxhall Vivaro = Renault Trafic = Nissan Primastar

This means your choice may come down to availability, price, or resale value rather than performance differences.

3. 🔧 Condition: What to Look for in a Used Van

If you’re buying second-hand, here’s what to check:

• Rust or signs of major repair (especially underneath or near wheel arches)
• Mileage – Lower isn’t always better; condition matters more
• Service history – Full records are ideal
• Previous use – Ex-rental vans may have higher wear but better maintenance

🛠️ Common brands like the Ford Transit and Peugeot Boxer tend to be easier to find parts for and repair locally.

4. 💷 Budget: What Should You Pay?

Pricing can vary wildly depending on the make, model, age, and condition of the van. We recommend:

• Checking Parker’s Van Price Guide for ballpark figures
• Using a 24-hour subscription for detailed data (great if you’re shortlisting multiple vans)

💡 Remember: Saving money upfront could cost more later if the van needs repairs. Always budget for mechanical checks before converting!

📘 Need Expert Help? Get Our Guide: How To Convert a Campervan

Whether you’re planning a DIY build or managing a pro conversion, our comprehensive conversion guide is packed with everything you need to get started — from insulation to electrics and layout tips to legal checks.

🛠️ Buy the Guide →
✔️ Step-by-step advice
✔️ Design ideas from real vanlifers
✔️ Common pitfalls to avoid
✔️ Budget breakdowns

💡 Try Before You Buy: Hire a Campervan First

Still unsure what van layout or size will suit your lifestyle? The best way to figure it out is to experience vanlife for yourself.

🚌 Hire a Campervan Like Bloom

Bloom is a beautifully converted Ford Transit based in Sherbourne, the perfect example of how compact vans can be cosy, sleek and functional.

By renting a campervan before you commit to buying or building, you can:

• Test out different layouts and features
• Get a feel for what you really need on the road
• Travel in style and gather inspiration for your own build

🔎 Browse Campervans for Hire → https://www.quirkycampers.com

🚘 Most Popular Vans for Campervan Conversions in the UK

Choosing a reliable base vehicle is essential. These vans are some of the most commonly converted in the UK:

• Volkswagen Transporter (T4, T5, T6) – A timeless classic, compact and stylish.
• Mercedes Sprinter – Spacious and popular for off-grid or full-time vanlife.
• Ford Transit – Affordable and easy to repair, with plenty of space.
• Peugeot Boxer / Fiat Ducato / Citroën Relay – Boxy shape, great interior layout potential.
• Vauxhall Vivaro / Renault Trafic – Mid-sized vans with a smooth drive.

🛠️ These are widely available and offer great flexibility depending on your conversion goals.

💡 What’s the Best Layout for a Campervan Conversion?

Your layout depends on the size of your van and how you plan to use it. Popular layouts include:

• Fixed bed vs. rock’n’roll bed
• Rear kitchen vs. side kitchen
• Seating with swivel cab seats
• Toilet or shower inclusion

👉 Not sure where to start? Our conversion guide includes floor plans, layout tips, and real-world examples.

🚦 Should You Choose a High Roof or Low Roof Van?

High roof vans offer standing height and more storage — perfect for long trips or living in your van.
Low roof vans are easier to drive and park, cheaper to buy, and better for stealth camping.

Tip: Some vans come with pop-tops, giving you the best of both worlds.

🔄 Van Conversion vs. Buying a Pre-Converted Camper: Which Is Better?

Converting a van yourself gives you full creative control and can be budget-friendly, but it requires time, tools, and technical knowledge.
Buying a pre-converted van (or hiring one to try first) saves time and guarantees a finished product, often with a warranty if built professionally.

💡 Quirky Campers offers both rental inspiration and a curated selection of converted vans for sale.

🔌 Do You Need an Electric Hookup or Off-Grid Setup?

When converting your van, decide early if you’ll rely on campsites with electric hookups or prefer to go fully off-grid. Key options include:

• Leisure batteries
• Solar panels
• 12V appliances
• Inverters for 240V use

This decision will affect your build costs, appliance choices, and wiring needs.

🧾 Do You Need to Reclassify Your Van as a Campervan with the DVLA?

Yes, in the UK you can apply to change the classification of your van to a “motor caravan” once your build is complete.
Benefits include potentially lower insurance, better resale value, and road tax changes.

🔎 Learn more on the DVLA website.

Campervan Conversion FAQs

1. What is the best van to convert into a camper?
There’s no single “best” van — it depends on your needs and budget. Popular options include the VW Transporter, Mercedes Sprinter, Ford Transit, and Peugeot Boxer. For smaller builds, the Vauxhall Vivaro or Renault Trafic are compact yet versatile choices.

2. What size van is best for campervan conversion?

• Small to medium vans (e.g. VW T4, Vauxhall Vivaro) are easier to drive and park, ideal for solo travellers or couples.
• Large vans (e.g. Sprinter, Ducato, Crafter) offer more space for families, full-time living, or off-grid setups.
  Consider whether you want to stand up inside, cook inside, or include a toilet/shower.

3. Is it cheaper to buy a converted campervan or convert your own?
DIY conversions can be cheaper, especially if you have the skills or time to do it yourself. However, hiring professionals or buying a pre-converted van saves time and often ensures higher build quality. Our conversion guide can help you decide what’s right for you.

4. How much does it cost to convert a van into a campervan?
Costs vary widely based on how basic or luxurious you want it:

• Budget DIY builds: £1,000–£5,000
• Mid-range conversions: £5,000–£15,000
• Professional conversions: £15,000+
  Factor in insulation, electrics, plumbing, kitchen, beds, and materials.

5. What is the easiest van to convert into a camper?
Boxy vans like the Ford Transit, Peugeot Boxer, or Fiat Ducato are easier to work with due to their straight walls and decent headroom. They’re also widely available and affordable to maintain.

6. Should I hire a campervan before converting one?
Absolutely! Renting a campervan first lets you test drive different layouts, kitchen setups, and bed styles. It’s the best way to learn what works for your lifestyle before committing to a big build.
👉 Hire a Quirky Camper to get inspired!

🚐 Ready to Start Your Vanlife Journey?

Whether you’re dreaming of building your own campervan from scratch or want to dip your toes in the water with a rental, Quirky Campers is here to help you every step of the way.

👉 Download our Conversion Guide
👉 Hire a Quirky Camper for your next getaway
👉 Explore real vans for sale for inspiration