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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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Bryan Hood's Most Recent Stories

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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Mini Van Life: 5 Best Family-Haulers for Life on the Road

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Minivans can be super adventure vehicles and great platforms for life on the road. Yes, you read that right — minivans.

While overlooked by many, a minivan’s inherent practicality, versatility, affordability, and comfort rank among the top for any vehicle. If you’re willing to let go of your preconceived stereotypes and explore options for a smaller adventure van, you might find some uncommonly good options out there.

So, which are the best? Here are our top five picks for the best minivans that can be great adventure vehicles and are perfect for life on the road.

5 Mini Van Life Top Picks

Toyota sienna — much more than your typical family-hauler.

The Toyota Sienna is probably not what you think of when you hear “life on the road.” However, these vans have a reputation for longevity, reliability, and dependability.

Whether it’s an early model from the late 1990s or the top-of-the-line AWD hybrid variants sold new today, the Sienna is gaining traction among van lifers and adventure travelers.

In fact, Toyota has taken note of this and now offers the Woodland variant for 2022. The Sienna Woodland turns this minivan into more of an SUV thanks to increased ground clearance and electronic on-demand AWD . Granted, it’s only an additional 0.6 inches of lift, but more is more.

You also get roof rails with crossbars, a 1,200W JBL stereo, and an AC power outlet for most household items. Toyota will also donate $250 to the National Environmental Education Fund (NEEF) for every Woodland edition it sells.

The Sienna also comes in a Hybrid trim with AWD and offers 35 combined mph. The van’s rear seats fold into the floor for extra space and versatility. Plus, the interior is lavish and ultra-comfortable.

4WD vs. AWD: How to Choose the Right Adventure Vehicle for You

So, you’re ready to buy an adventure vehicle? Awesome! Let’s look at 4WD vs. AWD and how to choose the right one for your new adventure rig. Read more…

Say you’re not looking to spend $50,000 on a new AWD Sienna. There are loads of older versions available at much lower prices. This entry cost can allow you to focus more on building the van’s interior to suit your needs.

A Sienna isn’t as capable as an SUV, but that doesn’t mean you’re relegated to the tarmac. Aftermarket manufacturers sell small lift kits for these vans, allowing them to fit bigger all-terrain tires, so you don’t just have to stick to the highways. This extra height will also enable access to more trailheads, kayaking spots, or remote campsites previously out of reach.

With its longstanding reputation for reliability, its spacious, versatile interior, and with plenty of creature comforts, the Sienna is a fantastic choice for a road tripper.

Ford Transit Connect — Unlimited Conversion Options

Now on its second generation in North America, the Ford Transit Connect is a minivan that can double as a super travel setup. If any of the vans on this list are “sporty,” the Transit Connect would be the driving enthusiast’s choice.

They handle better than anticipated, and while they’re not exactly a sports car, they can be fun to drive . And, since you can buy these vehicles pretty much any way you want from the factory — including with or without rear seats or windows — they offer up a blank canvas for the vagabond van life.

These vehicles first appeared in the U.S. as a 2009 model (earlier versions sold in Europe first). And they’re easy to find used and relatively inexpensive. However, Ford only offers them in front-wheel-drive, so they’re best for on-road or mild forest-road travel only.

But if you’re sticking to highways and byways, it can be a great travel platform. The 2014-2023 second-gen Transit Connect comes in two lengths. Seek out the long-wheelbase version for a more comfortable minivan life on the road.

There are several companies building these into campers, including Ursa Minor , a Portland, Oregon-based outfitter that makes a pop-top version for long-wheelbase versions of the 2014+ Transit Connects.

Transit Connects are all powered by fuel-efficient four-cylinder engines, with older versions getting a 2.5L non-turbo powerplant. The newer ones have a 2.5L or 2.0L mill for more power.

A 1.6-liter EcoBoost turbo was available for a brief period but only produced in low numbers. Certainly not rocketships by anyone’s definition, but trips to the gas pump are seriously less painful than in most vans.

The combination of utility, driving dynamics, and availability make these minivans a good platform for life on the road . Plus, the extensive network of Ford dealers means parts and service are easy-peasy.

Recently, Ford announced that it would stop importing the Transit Connect in the U.S. at the end of 2023 but will continue shipping to Europe and other countries.

 Mitsubishi Delica Star Wagon & Space Gear — All-Star Mini Van Life Personality

The Mitsubishi Delica launched in the 1960s. The name is a portmanteau of “delivery” and “car.” However, it didn’t become an iconic van until the 1986 Delica Star Wagon came along.

That van, which never sold in North America, paired a unibody car chassis with a rugged 4WD system — complete with a low-range four-wheel-drive system that enabled it to go anywhere.

There were a dizzying array of versions: low roof, high roof, glass tops, winter-themed Chamonix versions, models with bull bars, bench seats, captain’s chairs, and even 12V coolers.

In 1994, the Delica Space Gear came out. It got a more rounded-off minivan shape but didn’t lose its versatility, capability, or ability to become a great camper or travel vehicle. These vans also offered a few different gasoline or turbodiesel engines.

The Star Wagons were pokey but can still cruise at 65 mph — it just takes a while to get there. Space Gear 1994 and later models offered up more powerful 3.0L V6 engines or 2.8L turbodiesels that are much more comfortable cruisers.

While the Mitsubishi Delica was never officially sold in North America, they can be imported into the U.S. — as long as they’re 25 years old or more — and easily registered in most states —  Maine and Rhode Island are currently the exceptions .

The combination of versatile interior dimensions, available overbuilt driveline components, and being sold globally make the Delica a marvelous choice for life on the road. Perhaps the best van life configuration would be a 1994+ Delica Space Gear with the 2.8L turbodiesel, a high-roof setup, with a long wheelbase.

Nevertheless, foreign-market vehicles aren’t without some challenges. Parts availability is scarcer than your run-of-the-mill minivans. However, Canada has a number of great shops that often have parts on hand. Canada has a 15-year import rule, so these vans have been there longer than the U.S.

Some parts, such as brake pads and rear brake rotors, are the same as Mitsubishi’s Montero SUV, which was sold in the United States. For many, however, the Delica’s pros outweigh the cons, and these quirky minivans remain a darling of the overland travel set globally.

In fact, I own the 1994 Delica Space Gear pictured here and used to own the white 1989 Delica Star Wagon, also pictured here.

Volkswagen Vanagon — Minivan Life G.O.A.T.

This almost goes without saying, but the VW Vanagon is a classic. Available in 2WD and 4WD versions (called Syncros), the Vanagon is one iconic minivan. These vans have their roots tied to the original Microbus, which is the granddaddy of minivans. People were using these for van life well before van life was a thing.

Vanagons have been the darling of travelers worldwide for decades. Customized 4WD Syncro versions command a premium — sometimes well into the $70,000 range — due to their go-everywhere capability and high-end camperized interiors. When equipped with a pop-top camper, such as a Westfalia, they command even more money.

Scads of these have been turned into adventuremobiles over the years, with the best-known customs being done by Westfalia. Even 2WD versions can be expensive, but it’s a proven platform with lots of aftermarket support.

The Vanagons aren’t known to be quite as reliable as some of the Japanese vans, but they have their own rugged personality and capability. Of all the vans on this list, this is the model with the most experience with campers living out of them.

Depending on where you live, these vans have over 20 model years to choose from, with myriad engine choices. None are going to be particularly rapid, but there’s an ultra-loyal community of Vanagon owners globally — many of which are more than willing to lend a hand if needed.

For those looking for more thrust, some owners even swap out the old VW engines for more modern and powerful Subaru powerplants to wake these German vans up from a performance perspective.

The Vanagon is a timeless classic; a minivan before minivans were, well, minivans. If one vehicle on this list personified minivan life on the road, the Vanagon would be it.

Chrysler Pacifica — Stylish, Fuel Efficient, AWD

I recently spent a week with a new Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, and I have to say, I was totally surprised and impressed by this vehicle. I grew up with a mid-’80s Dodge Voyager and rode in a 1990s Chrysler Town & Country from Minnesota to Mexico City in 1994. This is not the Chrysler van of yore with fake woodgrain and cheesy hubcaps. Pacificas are roadtrip machines!

The latest 2017-to-present Pacifica offers extraordinary levels of comfort and livability. Like the Sienna, the rear seat tumbles into the floor. Remove the middle row captain’s chairs to open up the Pacifica’s interior into a gargantuan place. Now there’s room to camp, hang out, or do whatever mini van lifers do.

I was able to remove those seats, lay out a double-wide sleeping bag, and still had scads of room for gear. I could even watch TV or play games on the monitors located in the front seats’ headrests! Plus, my Hybrid model had a panoramic glass roof, which would be amazing for stargazing.

Let’s not forget that the front seats were heated, air-cooled, and ultra-comfortable. Factor in a world-class infotainment system, and you’ve got one heck of a vehicle that just happens to be a minivan.

The more time I spent in the van, the more I thought about how it could be a great full-time travel vehicle with the right buildout inside. Even if you went barebones with an interior build, this thing was so good on the highway — and comfortable, too! The miles just passed by without fatigue or anything.

The fact the Hybrid model gets up to 82 MPGe or 30 mpg on gasoline isn’t bad, either. If you have to have AWD, there’s a Pacifica for you, too. It’s powered by a 3.6L V6 making 287 horsepower.

Fuel economy isn’t hybrid-like, but it does offer up that AWD capability. And yes, you can find small lifts for more ground clearance and larger tires .

Chrysler was the originator of the modern minivan as we know it. And after driving the new Pacifica, I’d say they’ve still got it.

5 Reasons Minivans Are the Ultimate Adventure Rigs

The minivan is full of juxtaposition. It’s possibly the most versatile and practical vehicle on the market. Yet it’s also the most stigmatized and unloved by Americans these days. Read more…

Andy Lilienthal has been writing about cars, trucks, and gear for 23 years at a host of publications. Prior to that, Andy spent time at/worked at a student newspaper at the University of Wisconsin – Stout. Based in Portland, Ore., Andy enjoys working on his Japanese domestic market 4WD Mitsubishis, traveling, and exploring new countries.

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12 Best Small Camper Vans Under $25,000

If you’re ready to dive into life on the road but don’t have a huge budget, a small camper van is the way to go. Whether you’re looking for a prefab mini camper or prefer to build your own, check out our 12 reviews of the best tiny van conversions below.

Why Travel in a Mini RV Van?

Van life is everywhere you look; turn on your computer and head to YouTube or open up your Instagram feed, and you’re bound to see somebody cruising through the desert in a tasty camper conversion or a video showcasing the latest and greatest small travel trailers .

It’s a massive movement that has overtaken the globe, with people from all walks of life and backgrounds giving up their previous lives and heading out on the open road in off road trucks and small camper vans.

Bagging a cheap camper or a tiny trailer to curb your off grid adventure itch is always a great feeling, and it can really keep your van life costs down once you’re out on the road. Some cars like the Dalbury E Electric have a running cost of 2p per mile, helping you hop from country to country on the cheap or saving up for further adventures.

This, among many other reasons, is why micro campers are becoming more and more popular with van dwellers who are considering living in a van and living the van life.

Best Small Camper Vans for Sale on the Cheap

With that in mind, we’ve made a list of the 12 best small camper vans under $25,000 dollars for you to sink your teeth into. We’ve searched the internet for the best deals and more importantly the nicest campers that you can buy without breaking the bank, and you might be surprised with what we’ve come up with!

If the price below doesn’t factor the van into the overall cost, we will state C onversion only cost at the bottom. After researching vans on second hand sites across the internet, we’re working on the basis that these vans can be bought for under $8,000 (£6,500).

But without further ado, check out the top 12 affordable camper vans on the market:

1. Mitsubishi Delicia – $12,217

First up on our list of small camper vans is this Mitsubishi Delicia Chamonix conversion from UK based Love Campers; an apt name for a company that do some seriously nice conversions in some of the smaller spaces known to van life-kind!

Each Islay mini RV conversion comes with dully insulated walls and vinyl flooring, a leisure battery and power management system, and a 240V hook up integrated into the side of the camper for use when parking up at campsites.

The spacious hob and sink combo fit neatly into custom made, hand-crafted wooden cupboards, and the 4foot wide rock-n-roll seat converts back into a comfortable bed for you and a partner to slob out on at the end of the day.

Water, gas, and lighting all come as standard in this Love Campers conversion, but you’ll have to splash out an extra $982 on solar panels if you want to go fully off grid.

Head over to Love Campers for more info. Conversion only cost .

2. Citroen Dispatch – $11,290

Next up on our list of the best small camper vans is the mighty-yet-mini Citroen Dispatch and a ‘surf van’ style conversion from Convert Your Van.

Borrowing from the So-Cal VW Bus vibe of yester-year, these conversions include everything that you need to be the perfect weekend warrior in a vehicle that’s easy to park and drives more like a car than a van.

It’s a perfect choice if you’re anxious about driving a bigger vehicle, yet don’t want to sacrifice on that Beach Boys styling.

The price of this sleeper van conversion comes under a Tier 2 package and includes a side kitchen and folding bed installation as well as a pop-top roof.

You get all of your appliances such as your fridge and water pump wired up, as well as 12V charging facilities for your phones, tablets, and other portable gadgets that can be charged up via the included leisure battery.

Head over to Convert Your Van for more details on what they offer and information on the different conversion price bands. Conversion only cost.

3. ROMAHOME R10 – $22,095

If you’re looking for cheap campers that include the van in the price, then the best places to look are second-hand websites and car dealers.

The ROMAHOME R10 is one of the best small campers out there on the market, and we recently found one online for the small sum of $22,000 (£17,995). That’s ‘cheap as chips’ for a fully functioning weekend-camper van with a bed built in.

The R10 is the perfect tiny home for a solo traveller who likes living a minimalistic lifestyle while out on the road.

The conversion comes with a sink and hob, plenty of storage for your solo-sized top cooking accessories , and a single bed that looks as though it’s made from the biggest foam cushions ever! 

From what we can see, there’s only one seat in the front, so don’t even think about trying to give someone a lift in this thing. You could strap a seatbelt to the included Chemical Toilet, but it might not make for a very pleasant ride!

Check out the ROMAHOME website for more info on their outstanding travel vans for sale .

4. VW Caddy – $24,550

The next van on our list has perhaps one of the nicest interiors in any of the small camper vans I’ve seen on our travels through the Van-i-verse. We’re heading back to our friends at Love Campers for this tasty looking VW Caddy conversion, and boy is it special.

Until writing this article, I had never really considered how much you can actually do with a mini camper or an uber-compact van. But this fully kitted out stealth camper van has everything that you could possibly ask for and more. And the van itself is included in the price!

The Mandalay RV conversion has a similar style rock-n-roll seat/bed combo as the previous Love Campers conversion. It also uses the same side-kitchen set up to complete the bulk of the build.

Plus a large garage-style door opens out at the back to give you access to a boot section and to create a nice through-draft. There’s also plenty of storage for all of your van life essentials including a large space underneath the cushion-clad seat.

A hob, sink, and mini fridge top everything off nicely. And there’s plenty of outlets for charging on the go.

While the quote above is for a VW Caddy that has recently sold, contact the company. If you’re looking for a pre-made van for your next adventure they can keep you updated on availability.

Head over to Love Campers  to enquire about their affordable camper vans for sale.

5. Renault Traffic – $11,971

Sometimes the decision to go for a mini camper or a big one can be a tricky call. But for Clearcut Conversions, the answer is indeed quite clear!

Up next on our list of livable vans is a Renault Traffic. Not only does it come with plush leather seats, but there’s also a full kitchenette.

Unlike some of the other more traditional DIY camper conversions , this Renault Camper from Clearcut Conversions looks like a futuristic space pod that just shot down from the Death Star – which if you read my articles regularly you’ll know is a very good thing indeed.

This stylish camper is a 2-berth, making it a great travel van with companions. (Or when impressing a date with your swanky new ride!)

A 50l fridge, sink, hob, and 20l water storage come as standard. Along with 12V and 240V power and a battery management system to keep your numbers in check while on the go.

If going off the grid in luxury is your thing, then this Renault Traffic conversion will be right up your street.

Head over to Clearcut Conversions for more information. Conversion only cost.

6. Ssangyong Turismo 4×4 – $23,329

Are you looking for a stealth camper that can double as a family vehicle? Then this rare Ssangyong Turismo Camper from Wellhouse Leisure could make your dreams come true!

It comes with four wheel drive for getting to all of those hard to reach van life travel spots. And it’s small enough to go down into all of those European underground parking lots. (Which my ginormous Vauxhall Movano could never dream of getting into.)

This automatic micro-machine has four leather seats for daily travel, plus a full a camper conversion for switching gears into the vanlife. It comes complete with a compressor fridge, a hob that slides out for whipping up tasty meals on the go, fresh drinking water and wastewater storage, and a porta potti for when you ‘gotta go’!

The seats flip down to make a two-berth sleeping arrangement. It’s a good van with bed space for couples, but gets cosy fast with more people. (Of course, you could also just set up a tent hammock in the forest for extra guests!)

Check out Wellhouse Leisure for more details.

7. Toyota Sienna – $8,500

Oasis Campervans offer up a great minivan camper for sale at a slick price. It blends perfectly into the daily grind, but unleashes a host of hidden functions for living off grid .

Despite being one of the most diminutive of tiny van conversions on our list, Oasis Campervans’ Toyota Sienna packs a wallop.

They have fit a sliding table, bed, and a place to charge your gear inside this van. There’s even a sink with space for water storage, and a place for you to put your burner on too!

The storage in this minivan camper is incredibly well thought out. With boxes and cubbyholes located all the way through the build, it’s great for storing your adventure gear.

Although, it might not be big enough to put your travel bikes in. But still, it’s definitely a good size for short trips away or day excursions to the beach.

Head over to Oasis Campervans website for more info. Conversion only cost.

8. Citroen Berlingo – $23,943

Next, we have the ever-popular Citroen Berlingo from Chapel Motorhomes. A double berth pop-top that is perfect for an adventurous duo in search of the best small camper van. (As long as they don’t mind spending a lot of time in close proximity to each other.)

This city dwelling MPV is the perfect base vehicle for turning into a micro camper. Especially with the gas-assist pop-top added into the equation!

This functional two-berth conversion has a Dometic double hob and Dometic sink in the grey kitchenette area. Both of which can be covered over with glass lids to provide an extra wide food prep space.

There’s a 75ah battery for charging your 12V and 240V gadgets. Along with an electric hook-up point for when parking near a power source.

You’ll find a Thetford Porta Potti in here too for when nature calls- one of our Best Campervan Toilets . And a 420l lockable box on the roof of the camper for all of your extra belongings.

Head over to Chapel Motorhomes for more information.

9. Jeep Wrangler Unlimited JK – $7,950

When you think of a Jeep Wrangler , it’s likely you associate it with a rugged, off-road excursion. This unique vehicle is synonymous with an adventurous lifestyle, making it a fantastic choice when converting small camper vans.

But Jeep isn’t only known for their off-road capabilities and adventure. The car manufacturer is also praised for their production of high quality vehicles.

Because of the Jeep Wrangler’s durability, and outdoorsy appeal, it’s a no-brainer to use them for RV conversion. Which is exactly what Ursa Minor Vehicles offers with their pop-top Wrangler conversions.

What started as a passion project has now become a multi-state company with conversion workshops in California and Oregon. And Jeep camper van conversions take up one location entirely–that’s a lot of Wrangler upgrades!

Due to the high quality of Jeep vehicles, you can easily find older, less expensive Wranglers that still have plenty of life left in them. Even, once you factor in the cost of a conversion, you’re still well below the 25k limit.

Conversion only cost.

10. Nissan NV200 – $7,998

If you’re new to the van life scene, and find larger recreational vehicles intimidating, then small camper vans are a great way to get your feet wet. And the Nissan NV200 is a stellar option for a small camper van conversion.

Not only is the Nissan NV200 a powerful cargo van, it also offers fuel efficiency, and a smooth driving experience. So, whether you’re trekking backcountry roads, or exploring city streets, a NV200 camper van can get you there.

And to help your dreams of van life become reality, Contravans offer Nissan NV200 conversions for very reasonable prices. Each is compatible with the 2013-present NV200, meaning you can easily find used camper van for sale that will fit within your budget.

Along with a place to sleep, you get an electrical package, a vent fan, LED lighting, and ample storage. After all those additions, there’s still space available to add even more custom accessories. Check out the other conversion camper vans for sale from Contravans.

11. Honda Elysion – $24,557

We’re heading back to Wellhouse Leisure for our penultimate compact home on our list of the Best Small Camper Vans. While this Honda Elysion comes in at the very top of our budget, it’s well worth it. With the fresh-looking available space inside the camper it justifies parting with the extra Benjamins.

Wellhouse have fitted this Japanese minivan with a rock-n-roll two-seater bench that transforms into a bed. And they’ve also put an elevating roof inside to make it easier to move around in the living area. There’s also the option of adding a second double bed into the mix. So you can turn this mini camper into a four-berth motorhome.

At 4.84m long and around 2m high, this camper will pass most of the parking height restrictions around the world. And it’s a nice size for parking in the city, or out in the wilderness.

It comes with a 25L fridge, and a 2KW air heater. Along with a 100w solar panel hooked up to a leisure battery, and a two-burner gas hob and sink combo. Not bad for the price, don’t you think?

Check out Wellhouse Leisure for more details. Conversion only cost.

12. Ram Promaster City – $7,000

The final camper conversion on our list is one that our US readers will know all too well. And it’s also the cheapest conversion on our list too! The Ram Promaster City is probably the perfect van for a city-slick stealth camper. It’s about as unsuspecting as you get.

Cascade Campers add a super thin solar panel to the top that doesn’t attract any attention, turning this ordinary cargo van into a vehicle that’s ideal for off grid living

These Cascade Campers have a simple fold-down bed set-up. Plus you get a tap and sink for all of your fresh water needs. There’s 19l of freshwater storage onboard. Along with a one hob fixed burner that’s perfect for a cup of tea or soup for one. Keep your food cool in the Dometic 12v fridge, and power up all of your gadgets with the included inverter.

Head over to Cascade Campers for more details. Conversion only cost.

Small Camper Vans FAQ – 10 Common Questions About Stealth Camper Vans

If you’re new to the world of small camper vans, then the buying process and lifestyle change can seem overwhelming. But we’re here to help!

In order to aid you in your van life research, we’ve put together a quick list of frequently asked questions.

1. How much does a camper van cost?

So, if you’re living out of your camper, rent is no longer a concern. Along with those unnecessary 2 a.m. delivery meals – those fees really start to add up. You’re likely going to start saving in ways you didn’t even see coming. Especially if you’re starting out with affordable camper vans.

But it’s mostly relative to you and your personal situation. How much do you plan to travel? Are you paying off any loans? These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself before you can better calculate a budget .

2. How much regular maintenance will your small camper van need?

When you’re living out of a camper van regardless of the size, you’ll want to be mindful of your van’s condition. So, it helps to be knowledgeable of automotive basics.

That being said, you’re going to want to budget for an emergency fund . Because it’s always better to be safe than sorry. While you’re at it, make it a habit of stopping to check your tires, and oil.

Of course, the amount of maintenance ultimately depends on how much you plan to travel at any given time. The more wear on your vehicle, the more repairs. And in the end, your insurance plan makes all the difference.

3. Where can you go to the bathroom or shower in a stealth camper van?

With small camper vans, every inch counts. In order to get the most out of limited space, the amenities we consider vital in a brick and mortar home are the first to go when we hit the road.

But luckily there are alternatives to a toilet/shower combo right next to where you lay your head at night.

As far as showers are concerned, look up gyms in the area, or invest in an outdoor shower system . And for toilets, gyms, grocery stores, gas stations, and even parks have toilets you can use. But for those trips that take you farther from civilization, there are portable toilets available .

4. What kind of power source is best?

First things first, make a list of all of the electronics you’ll be powering. Once you have a general idea of how much energy you’ll be using you can make a more informed decision about what power source you should use.

Thankfully there are plenty of portable power sources for small camper vans. And to make things easier for yourself, there are numerous solar options available as well.

5. How can you keep refrigerated items fresh?

Worrying about your perishable items, and not wanting to live life off of dry goods? Don’t sweat it!

You can keep your food and drinks cold, even frozen. All you need is a minifridge, or a travel refrigeration system . Of course space is going to be limited, so you’ll need to alter your idea of a well stocked fridge.

6. What’s the best way to cook in a van?

So, now that you know you can have a fully stocked fridge, you might be wondering how you’re going to cook your meals. Well, there is a plethora of portable grills and flat tops available .

Or you can simply use campground grills and firepits to whip up some fantastic meals. And for any 21st century cooks, an instant pot is a gamechanger. Now the only question is what are you going to cook ?

7. What’s the best source for Wi-Fi?

Since we’re living in the 21st century, free Wi-Fi is popping up everywhere. And when you’re traveling it can be fairly easy to find a source for free Wi-Fi. National and State Parks will offer Wi-Fi, along with coffee shops, and libraries.

However, if you need a more private connection, your best option is using your mobile phone as a hotspot. Just remember to opt for that unlimited data plan.

8. Where can you park your van overnight?

With small camper vans, parking overnight can be as easy as pulling up in a free city parking spot. If you’re staying for longer than a night, you might look into free campsites prior to your visit.

Then again, there’s always a Walmart parking lot that can legally and safely be your home away from home. But having a van with a bed means a lot more flexibility in where you sleep at night.

9. How do you receive mail while on the road?

When you’re living in a mini RV van, receiving mail can be burdensome. What you’ll need to do is switch as many bills and alerts as you can to paperless. Part of the allure of small travel vans is sustainable living, so the less paper mail the better.

But for all the physical mail you can’t digitize, there are Amazon Lockers, FedEx/UPS Distribution Centers, and the option to get items delivered directly to the store for pickup. Plus you can always ask friends or family back home to forward your mail and packages.

10. Where do you do your laundry?

Doing your laundry doesn’t have to feel like a chore. It can be as easy as posting up at a laundromat. Then you can use some free Wi-Fi while you wait, and gain access to a bathroom all in one trip.

Or, if you have a water source, or enough water storage you can do your laundry without leaving your van . Then simply hang your clothes out to dry.

Now we have one question for you – What are you waiting for? Go choose your new camper van today!

More Content From The Van Clan Team!

• Which is the best van to live in ? We investigate!
• This VW California Camper will blow you away.
• Check out these amazing Campervan Gifts .

Please note that all comments will be checked by our team before being approved.

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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.

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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.

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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15 Best Vans For A Camper Conversion [Fresh for 2022!]

Van conversion guide.

last updated: Feb 24, 2022

Are you looking to start your van life adventure? 

Feeling overwhelmed trying to pick the best van for your camper? 

Don’t worry, it’s an important decision and one that stops a lot of people dead in their tracks.

To help make things easier, I’ve gone ahead and summarised the absolute best vans for camper conversions.

Including a healthy mix of large vans, medium vans, and small vans. So there should be something for everyone!

This list is based on plenty of experience converting my own vans, as well as the hundreds of van conversion tours featured on my channel over the years.

Let’s get started!

** Please only use prices given as a rough estimate only. They are accurate at the time of writing, but prices can vary greatly depending on things like where you are located and the condition/age of the van.

Best large vans for a camper conversion

1. sprinter.

All of the LWB models have high roofs, while the SWB wheelbase models have the option of either a low roof or a high roof. 

Off-Road Capability : Yes!

Either rear 2wd or 4wd versions are available, making off-road 4×4 Sprinter vans increasingly popular.

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

The Sprinter Van is by far the most popular van for camper van conversions. Sprinter vans are durable, versatile, and most are built as cargo vans so their interiors are highly customizable.

It is important to note that when talking about Sprinter van conversions , the Mercedes Sprinter Van and the Dodge Sprinter Van are essentially the exact same van. 

The key difference is the Dodge Sprinter Vans were manufactured between 2002-2006, and Dodge or Mercedes, they are both phenomenal vehicles.

Pros of Sprinter for Van Conversions

• Has a great reputation for campervan conversion and lives up to its name as an excellent van for camper conversion.
• You have the choice of a gasoline or diesel engine.
• Sprinter Vans run for a long time! It is not uncommon for Sprinter Vans to last well beyond 300,000+ miles.
• Due to the Sprinter Van’s popularity, it is not difficult to find a quality used Sprinter Van on the market.
• The Sprinter Van’s popularity means that there are many layout ideas and designs available for your DIY van conversion.

Cons of Sprinter for Van Conversions

• One of the biggest cons of the Sprinter Van is its hefty price tag.
• It can be difficult to have repairs done on a Sprinter Van. Very few mechanics will work on Sprinter Vans, most will refer to the dealer, which can be very costly.
• Because the Sprinter Vans are so big, they can be difficult and awkward to drive.

Who is the Sprinter Van best for?

This van is best for anyone with a decent-sized budget who wants a quality van to convert themselves! 

Example Sprinter Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Incredible SELF BUILD with Full Bathroom and Spare Bedroom

This Sprinter Van conversion really showcases all the Sprinter Van has to offer. 

With a large van like the Sprinter Van, you have a ton of space available to work with while designing your dream camper van. 

As you can see with this Sprinter Van Conversion, there is enough space for a kitchen, walk-in bathroom, and multiple beds!

This large living room space converts into a double bed!

At first glance, I never would have guessed this bathroom is from a van! Sprinter Vans are big enough to incorporate an entire walk-in bathroom like this one.

There is even an extra bedroom inside this Sprinter Van Conversion!

Sprinter Vans truly are one of the best vans to convert to campers.

Read More: Best Sprinter Van Conversions

2. Ram Promaster

Roof Height:

165cm low roof, 190cm high roof

Wheelbase Dimensions:

Length: 345cm SWB, 403cm LWB

Width: 121cm SWB, 142cmLWB

Off-Road Capability: No

Ram Promaster van conversions do not have a 4×4 option, so it does not have off-roading capabilities. However, it does have front-wheel drive, making it a great campervan option for anyone who plans to do lots of driving in the snow.

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

Next up on the list of best vans for camping conversion is the Dodge Ram Promaster. These bad boys have an extra-wide body, are extremely stealthy, and are a more affordable option than the Sprinter Van.

Pros of the Ram Promaster for Van Conversion

• The body of this van is about 10cm wider than its main competitors, the Sprinter Van and the Ford Transit. This extra width is great for anyone who wants to have their bed fit width-wise in the van.
• Due to its shorter size, the Ram Promaster is very maneuverable and easy to drive and park in cities.
• Its exterior also most resembles a cargo van, so this is a great stealth van. 
• This van is much less expensive than others on the market, and is very fuel efficient (on average, the Ram Promaster gets 20mpg)!

Cons of the Ram Promaster for Van Conversion

• While this van has a low roof clearance, the drawback here is that it also has a low ground clearance. 
• There is no 4WD option for the Ram Promaster so this is not a great van for off-roading adventures.
• Its interior is also rounded, so DIY van conversions are slightly more tricky. 
• Also, unlike other vans, the Ram Promaster is a relatively new van so it can be difficult to find quality used vans. 

Who is the Ram Promaster Best For?

This van is best for people who are not looking for overhead storage. It’s also great for van lifers primarily looking to live and drive in cities, and for people looking for an affordable van for camper conversion!

Example Ram Promaster Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Professional’s Incredible Full-time Self Build

Here we have the perfect example of a fully equipped Ram Promaster van conversion that is incredibly stealthy.

This Ram Promaster van conversion has it all, from a fixed bed, kitchen dining room/working space, to a full bathroom with shower.

Notice how wide the galley is in the van? That extra 10cm really goes a long way.

A key feature in this Ram Promaster van conversion is that there are no windows! The lack of windows allows this van to be completely stealthy, and parking and living in urban environments is a breeze with this van.

Read More: 10 Best Ram Promaster Van Conversions

3. Ford Transit

Off-Road Capability: Yes

Previously, the Ford Transit was not the go-to van for off-road adventures. However, in 2020 Ford introduced Transit Vans with AWD that can give even more power to the front wheels than the Sprinter Van.

For this reason, the Ford Transit Van can be an awesome van for off-roading as long as you snag one of the newer models.

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

The Ford Transit sits fairly high in the running for the best van for camper conversion. 

With many different options for size, a much smaller price tag than the Sprinter, and due to it now offering an AWD option, the popularity of Ford Transit van conversions has skyrocketed.

Pros of the Ford Transit for Van Conversion

• The Ford Transit is a very affordable van.
• The Ford Transit is one of the tallest vans on the market!
• Since Ford is so widespread, particularly in North America, pretty much any repair shop can work on a Ford Transit and easily find replacement parts at a low cost.

Cons of the Ford Transit for Van Conversion

This is a fairly new van, so finding quality used Ford Transit Vans can prove difficult.

• The AWD feature was only made available in 2020, so any vans older than 2020 will not have this feature.
• The Ford Transit can be a bit of a gas guzzler. A fully converted Ford Transit Van Conversion averages 14-17 mpg.
• These vans are not as mechanically reliable as other vans.

Who is the Ford Transit Best For?

The Ford Transit Van is the best van on the market for tall people due to its extra high roof. It is also a great van for anyone wanting to convert a van on a budget and still have a quality home on wheels that is easy to repair!

Example Ford Transit Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> The Best High-Tech Modern Van Conversion

This beautiful Ford Transit van conversion really showcases all of the opportunities available when converting a Ford Transit van!

This van conversion has a full kitchen, fixed double bed, toilet, and workspace!

There is even a large garage space underneath the van. 

In addition to there being plenty of room to stand up within this campervan, there is also plenty of overhead storage available in this Ford Transit Van Conversion- a real tribute to how tall this van truly is.

Read More: 15 Best Ford Transit Van Conversions

4. Volkswagen Crafter

167cm Low roof, 193cm high roof, 218cm extra high roof

Length: 365cm medium wheelbase, 432cm long wheelbase

The VW Crafter also comes with an extended LWB model in which the total length of the interior of the van is a whopping 470 cm!

Width: 135cm

Newer VW Crafter vans are now equipped with 4×4 capabilities to make off-roading a possibility. 

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

The VW Crafter is one of the largest and one of the most expensive vans for camper conversions.

Additionally, in many ways the VW Crafter is extremely similar to the Mercedes Sprinter. 

The key differences between the VW Crafter and Sprinter are that the Sprinter is sleeker on the exterior, the Crafter is longer, and the Sprinter is much lighter.

Pros of the VW Crafter for Van Conversion

• The biggest pro of the VW Crafter is its size. Combine the extended long wheelbase with a super high roof, and the sky’s the limit in terms of what you can do and fit in the interior of this van. 
• The VW Crafter is a very easy van to drive.

Cons of the VW Crafter for Van Conversion

• The biggest con of this van is its price tag. This is a very expensive van, and even used models are costly.
• Not the most fuel efficient van on the market for campervan conversion.

Who is the VW Crafter Best For?

This van is best for someone with a large budget who wants to convert a large campervan! 

If you have an unlimited budget and want to design your dream van, this could be your perfect van for campervan conversion.

This is also one of the best conversion vans for camping with family, as it is so large you can sleep many people within the VW Crafter.

Example Crafter Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Family of Four Converts Off-Grid Van To Travel The World

In this VW Crafter Campervan conversion, there is a large living room with a dining space that converts into an area that can sleep four people! 

They’ve incorporated some pretty unique campervan bed ideas . The dining table flips to create a double bed, and the two beds above connect with a plank of wood and become the perfect bunk bed for two small children.

5. Peugeot Boxer/ Citroen Relay/ Fiat Ducato 

Off-Road Capability: Yes!

The Peugeot Boxer and newer Fiat Ducato vans have a 4×4 option for off-roading! 

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

These vans are all essentially the same variations of one another and are based on the Ducato Chassis. 

They are great vans for conversion because they are quite customizable, and a wide array of different sizes and models are available. 

These vans are also great vans for van conversion because of their square shape, ideal turning radius, and variety of sizes. 

Pros of the Peugeot Boxer/ Citroen Relay/ Fiat Ducato for Van Conversion

• Has a very high safety rating and lots of safety features such as roll-over mitigation and enhanced steering control.
• Gets very good gas mileage, can be upwards of 35mpg!
• They are wider than Sprinter Van.
• Compared to other large vans on the market, this is a very affordable option!

Cons Peugeot Boxer/ Citroen Relay/ Fiat Ducato for Van Conversion

• These vans don’t have much storage in the cab.
• These vans aren’t very tall without the extra high roof model.
• Their width can make it difficult to drive on narrow roads.
• These vans have been known to have electrical problems and finding replacement parts can be difficult.
• These vans are not as reliable as Mercedes or VW Vans.

Who is the Peugeot Boxer/ Citroen Relay/ Fiat Ducato Best For?

This van is best for people who want an inexpensive and fuel efficient vehicle. These vans get great gas mileage, so they are great for long road trips. Due to their width, these vans are also great for anyone who wants to sleep across their van.

Example Citroen Relay Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Solo Female Self-Build Van Conversion

This beautifully designed Citroen Relay van conversion really showcases the width of these vans with the fixed bed going across the van. 

This van not only has a fixed double bed, but also a living room and large camper bathroom with beautiful stone-like walls with a shower and toilet.

With their wide shape and affordability, Citroen Relays, Fiat Ducatos, and Peugeot Boxers are all great vans for van conversion.

6. Iveco Daily

Roof Height:  

155cm low roof, 190 cm medium roof, 210cm high roof

Wheelbase dimensions:  

Length: 352cm SWB, 410cm LWB

Width: 200cm SWB, 200cm LWB

The Iveco Daily 4×4 is one of the best vans for off-roading on the market. This chassis was specifically designed to handle high stress and as a result, this van can take you pretty much anywhere.

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

The Iveco Daily is the biggest campervan on the market! 

This van has a very positive reputation for being highly reliable, and as of 2020, there is a fully electric Iveco Daily on the market! 

This van can carry a huge cargo load and is great for someone wanting a large van with a powerful, reliable engine.

Pros of the Iveco Daily for Van Conversion

• The Iveco Daily Van is a huge van so there are a million options for DIY van conversions.
• This van has intense off-roading capabilities.
• This van has many different models available on the market, including an all electric model.

Cons of the Iveco Daily for Van Conversion

• The Iveco Daily is a fairly expensive van.
• The Iveco Daily is not the easiest van to drive on the market.

Who is the Iveco Daily Best For?

The Iveco Daily is the best van for a luxury campervan conversion. It is such a large van that you can fit multiple rooms and whatever facilities you could possibly want, giving you full flexibility over your campervan’s interior . This is also a great van for those who love extreme off-roading due to its tough build.

Example Iveco Daily Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Genius Van with Solar and Water Powered Aircon

This Iveco Daily van conversion fully takes advantage of this beast of a van’s size. It features a full living room/workspace, kitchen, wet room, and almost an entirely separate bedroom!

The extra long wheelbase of the Iveco Daily is fully utilized in this spacious and creative van conversion.

7. Renault Master

Roof Height: 179cm, 208cm tall roof

Wheelbase dimensions:

Length: 318cm SWB, 368 LWB

Width: 138 cm

The Renault Master 4×4 has off-roading capabilities and can handle many different terrains.

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

The Renault Master is a great van for camping conversion. It is a reliable van and comes at a reasonable price! 

Its medium and long wheelbase models are great for solo travelers or even couples who want to convert a campervan to live in.

Pros of the Renault Master for Van Conversion

• The interior of the Renault Master is the ideal shape for converting a van. The interior lines are smooth and straight, so insulation and renovations will be a breeze.
• The Renault Master has a very strong diesel engine.
• This van can carry a very heavy load, above 1,600 kg!

Cons of the Renault Master for Van Conversion

• Due to being equipped to carry a heavy payload, the suspension makes the Renault Master a very bumpy van to drive around. 
• This van needs to be serviced more frequently than other vans on this list, including the Ford Transit and Fiat Ducato.

Who is the Renault Master Best For?

The Renault Master is the best van for camping conversion for anyone who favors a powerful engine and doesn’t want to be too concerned about the weight of their van conversion.

Example Renault Master Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Self-Build Campervan with Clever Interior Shower

The Renault Master offers an excellent cargo space for converting a campervan. The van itself is very light so you don’t have to worry as much about weight when designing your conversion, which gives you a little more creative freedom. 

This Renault Master campervan conversion has a kitchen, shower, large bed, and tons of overhead storage.

The Renault Master is also wide enough to fit a bed across the van like they did! This saves a lot of space lengthwise in the van and creates a great opportunity for a solid kitchen or workspace. 

With its light build, great shape, and affordable price, the Renault Master is definitely one of the best vans for camper conversions.

8. 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

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

Last but not least on this list of best vans for conversion is the International School Bus. 

While it’s not the most conventional choice for camper conversion, School Bus DIY campervans are growing in popularity due to their size, safety, and overall coolness factor.

Pros of an International School Bus for Van Conversion

• Converting an International School Bus allows for tons of space for campervan conversion.
• School Busses are extremely safe. They have a roll cage and are reinforced with steel so they are much safer than an RV. They were designed to transport children after all!
• An International School Bus is much cheaper than an RV.

Cons of an International School Bus for Van Conversion

• Besides the mini version, an International School Bus will not fit in normal parking spaces and can be quite difficult to drive due to its large size.
• An International School Bus conversion has about zero stealth factor.
• Medium and standard sized International School Busses are too large for a standard mechanic’s garage and will need to be serviced at a truck mechanic shop. 

Who is the International School Bus Best For?

An International School Bus van conversion is best for people wanting a safer and more affordable option than a traditional RV. They are also great for families because they have so much space. 

Example International School Bus Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> School Bus Converted to an Amazing Tiny Home

Here is an example of an absolutely epic American School bus conversion. Named Big Red, this standard-sized school bus conversion takes full advantage of the size to create a lovely home on wheels.

The kitchen area is large and spacious, and the long couch converts into an adult sized bed!

All of the windows that accompany a school bus provide perfect natural lighting in a camper conversion.

This school bus conversion even fits a king size bed! With a vehicle of this size, the options are truly endless.

While it may not be for everyone, an International School Bus camper conversion is certainly awesome, and easily earns its place on this list of the best vans for camper conversions.

Best medium sized vans for camper conversions

If you’re looking for a cheaper van conversion , then a mid-sized base van could be better for you.

9. VW Transporter

The T5 4motion model of the VW Transporter is a 4×4 vehicle and has off-roading capabilities!

Prices: $35,000 used / $33,000 basic model / $50,000 extended model T6 with upgrades

You can also purchase older VW Transporter models like the V2 for under $10,000 but they likely won’t be reliable and will need lots of TLC.

The VW Transporter is a classic campervan for van conversion.

It all started in the 1960s with the VW Transporter T2 model, more commonly known as the VW Bus. VW Busses are still around today for campervan conversions, but they are vintage vehicles and priced as such. 

Today, the newest model of the VW Transporter is the T6 which is one of the nicest vans for camper conversion. 

Pros of the VW Transporter for Van Conversion

• The V5 and V6 models of the VW Transporter are very reliable vans.
• The VW Transporters hold their price very well, so they are a great investment!
• They are easy to park.
• Older models of the VW Transporter are very cool vintage vehicles.

Cons of the VW Transporter for Van Conversion

• This is a smaller campervan.
• Older models have many maintenance problems.

Who is the VW Transporter Best For?

The VW Transporter T5 and T6 models are best for anyone who wants a reliable and small campervan. 

The earlier models are best for anyone who wants to have a sweet vintage van and have an awesome campervan to take to festivals and shows, but also know how to do the proper maintenance on it.

Example VW Transporter Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Highly Functional Budget Self Build Van Conversion

This T4 model of the VW Transporter is a great example of a small campervan that still has a complete conversion. 

There is plenty of space for a kitchen, convertible bed, and plenty of storage space in a VW Transporter.

10. Nissan NV

135cm low roof, 195 cm high roof

Length: 273cm

Width: 122 cm

4×4 is available on all Nissan NV 2500 and 3500 models.

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

The Nissan NV is an extremely underrated van for camping conversion. This is likely due to their short wheelbase and peculiar shape. 

However, because they are so rare for campervan conversions, Nissan NV vans are incredibly stealthy and low budget, earning a spot on this list of the top vans for camper conversions!

Pros of the Nissan NV for Van Conversion

• The Nissan NV is one of the most affordable vans for campervan conversion on the market.
• The Nissan NV is a reliable van with a well-built and powerful engine.
• Because the Nissan NV is rarely used as a campervan and more frequently used as a cargo van, it is very stealthy.
• Repairs on the Nissan NV are affordable and easy to get done.
• There is now a fully electric version of the Nissan NV.
• The Nissan NV is a light and easy to drive vehicle.

Cons of the Nissan NV for Van Conversion

• The Nissan NV does not get great gas mileage. It averages about 10-15mpg.
• This is a smaller van, so it won’t fit as many features as larger campervans on the market.
• In the electric model, you have to stop frequently for charges which adds driving time.

Who is the Nissan NV Best For?

The Nissan NV is best for anyone who wants to build a campervan on a budget! You can find quality, used Nissan NVs for a fraction of the price of other campervans. 

This is also one of the best vans to convert for anyone who wants an easy van to drive and park in small spaces. 

Plus, with the new all-electric option, the Nissan NV is the best electric van for campervan conversion!

Example Nissan NV Camper Conversion

Full van tour video –> Fully Electric Van Conversion

Just because the Nissan NV is a small campervan, that doesn’t mean you won’t have enough space for two in this campervan conversion!

In this clever fully electric Nissan NV campervan conversion, they managed to fit a kitchen, double bed, and a workspace! There is also plenty of storage.

This awesome Nissan NV conversion is a wonderful example of how you can design your dream campervan without an extra large van.

11. Mercedes Vito

Interior dimensions.

• Mercedes is a trusted manufacturer with long lasting engines.
• It’s easy to drive around and feels like driving a car. 
• The interior width is generous for a small van.
• The Vito has a higher price tag than other small vans do.
• There is no built in bulkhead storage as standard.

12. Ford Transit Custom

• The wide interior means that you can be more creative with the layout.
• It is available in various length and height options, so that you can find the exact size for your needs.
• It’s small and easy enough to park in cities.
• If you want a higher roof, a pop top is available to add to your conversion. 
• There is no 4WD version of the Transit Custom available, so it’s not the best choice if you want to go off-road regularly.
• It has a low MPG compared to other similar vans, so you may spend more on fuel. 

Best small vans for a camper conversion

13. peugeot expert.

Interior dimensions 

• Feels almost like a car to drive.
• Available in different lengths.
• Widely available at a low price.
• The cab is small and could feel cramped on long journeys.
• The longer wheelbase van doesn’t have a higher roof.

14. Chevrolet G20

• It looks and feels like a car which is great if you want to be stealthy.
• Chevys are widely available and can usually be bought on a low budget.
• Spare parts are easy to come by if you need to make repairs on the road.
• There are lots of windows already installed, which will save on the actual cost of the van conversion .
• The roof height on all models is low, meaning you won’t be able to stand up.
• The interior space could feel small and cramped.
• Before you begin the conversion, the back passenger seats will need to be removed from the vehicle.

15. Ford Transit Connect

• These vans are widely available and can be purchased for a low cost.
• Gives the appearance of a work van from the outside, so they are perfect as a stealth camper conversion.
• The small size makes them easy to drive around, and no stress to park. 
• The longer version has a slightly narrower width than in the other versions.
• Again, the low internal height means that you can’t stand up inside.

Which van is best for your conversion?

Deciding which van to buy for your camper conversion is an important decision, and I hope that the information on this list makes your decision easier.

It’s important to not only do proper research on which campervan to convert, but to decide what it is you personally want out of a van, and choose your van accordingly. 

Everyone has different needs and wants for their dream campervan, so don’t be afraid to opt for whatever van feels right for you!

You might also like:

• Best Campervan Conversion Ideas

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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.

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Adventure: 15 Best Camper Vans for the Mobile Traveller

We have compiled a list of all the best camper vans on the market to help you choose which is best for you and your adventurous spirit, but first, it’s best to know all the accessories available, from luxury beds to fully functional kitchens.

Choosing the Best Camper Van For You

From mega off-road monsters, stylish luxury sleepers, and minimalistic compact campers, you have lots to choose from. There are a few key considerations to make when choosing a camper van to fit your lifestyle and budget:

• Size: Camper vans come both big and small, with plenty of middle ground to choose from as well. You should consider exactly how much space you need by estimating how many people will be traveling and how much gear you need, including necessities, personal items, and recreational supplies. Camper vans typically sleep anywhere from 2 to 6 people, and will have seating arrangements fit to match the sleeping capacity. Look for creative storage options, such as storage underneath the retractable awning or campers that utilize crawl space, which will help you feel less cramped.
• Amenities: You can enjoy all the luxurious amenities you have at home, like your usual kitchen appliances, climate control, advanced technology, solar power, and more, or you can opt for something more basic, depending on your needs.
• Gas Mileage: You can expect the gas mileage in a camper van to be less than that of your family car or personal sedan, but it doesn’t all have to be bad. Some models have mileage ratings as high as 20 mpg, while others are considerable low. To cut down on gas costs, consider models with an alternate energy source, like solar panels.
• Appearance: Camper vans are built onto pre-made chassis’s, so the exterior design depends heavily upon the chassis used. The Mercedes-Benz 144 chassis is a popular and common choice to many camper van builds, but you can find options that utilize Dodge, Ford, Fiat, Volkswagen, and other models, too.

Our Favorite Camper Vans

A camper van may be the perfect addition if your family loves to travel, but if you’ve never bought one before, it’s likely you don’t know where to start. Every model is intensely different, giving you a range of options to choose from. Like everything, though, some camper vans are better than others. For help choosing a camper van that is durable and built to last, with quality interior and amenities, consider our list of favorites. These options range from the biggest and baddest, to the most compact and luxurious models on the market, and none of them will let you down.

Hymercar Campervan

Hymercar is a unique company that allows you to choose from several build options and chassis’s, but perhaps their most popular option is the Hymercar Free on a fiat chassis. This model includes all the basic necessities, like a bathroom, kitchenette with refrigerator and freezer, and living space that easily converts to a sleeping space, which sleeps up to four people. The Grand Oak furniture finish gives a clean, modern feel to the inside, and you can choose from another Fiat model or the Mercedes-Benz model, depending on your aesthetic preferences.

Earthroamer XV-HD

This camper “van” is built for being off the road, but stylish enough for a highway stroll, too. It’s designed to be tough, with a King Ranch trim, a V8 Turbo Diesel engine, and 330 horsepower. This is also a great option if you need a lot of space and capacity for your travel. The Earthroamer XV-HD holds 250 gallons of fresh water and 115 gallons of fuel, so you have to stop less during your trip. The 20,000 watt hours and optional 2,100 watt solar power will help you sustain life in the great outdoors for quite some time. These super duty vehicles are built to custom order and several different floor plans are available, so you can choose how many people you’d like to sleep and all the amenities you’d like to be included. Earthroamer is based in Colorado and built in the USA .

Sportsmobile Ultimate Adventure Vehicle

This camper van is built for those who love the outdoors and have no limits as to where they may go. Its heavy duty exterior is built to last, and includes a list of upgrades to make your off-road experience all the easier, like a lift kit for extra clearance, suspension swap options, an upgraded 4×4 engine, and a roof rack capable of hauling multiple kayaks, bikes , and more. Enjoy plenty of interior conveniences, too, like a full kitchen with refrigerator, freezer, and cooktop, plenty of counter top and storage space, and a comfortable, convertible sitting and sleeping area that sleeps up to four people. A small dining area allows just as many people to easily enjoy meals, but since this Ultimate Adventure Vehicle can take you to places you’ve never been, you may find that you’re spending more and more time outdoors.

Winnebago Paseo

This roomy camper van is designed and built by Winnebago, one of the first trusted suppliers of quality RV’s. The camper is built onto a Ford Transit chassis, so you get strength and durability combined with plenty of space to move about. The back third of the van is completely customizable at your will, and you can choose from up to seven different daytime or nighttime seating options using the Flex Bed technology. You will also enjoy all the benefits of the Ford EcoBoost engine, so you can expect to get pretty good gas mileage and consistent performance that will take you wherever you want to go.

Weekender Mercedes Sprinter by Midwest Automotives

The Weekender uses a Mercedes Sprinter Chassis to create a stylish, but incredibly functional camper van. This sports van, designed by Midwest Automotives, is loaded with every luxury you could need in a travel van. Enjoy easy meal times provided by the microwave oven and compact refrigerator. Other modern conveniences you can enjoy on the go include a small bathroom with a shower, galley, wide screen televisions with cable access, internet access, and a premium sound system. The dinette area converts into a sleeping area around the size of a queen sized bed. All of your electric is run through a high powered lithium battery, which means you burn less gasoline, so you can travel on.

  Purchase

Outside Van Pop

This camper van, built on a low-roof Mercedes 144 chassis, includes a pop up roof for additional head room, which makes it easy to move about inside the luxurious living space. It is small and compact, but definitely not cramped. Outside Van offers a slew of custom options, including features like a 12V refrigerator, roof-top air conditioner, multiple cabinetry options, hanging shelves, drop down televisions, bunk beds, and more, so you can easily customize the Pop van to your liking. The Pop van can easily sleep up to four people, and depending on your chosen options, can sleep up to six.

Peugeot Rifter 4×4 Concept

If you are looking for something a bit more casual than a bulky van, this Rifter 4×4 Concept is a modern and adventurous take on a stylish SUV. Don’t worry, though, there was still plenty of room for them to add in all of your camping essentials, as well as an 8 cm lift kit to help you clear any obstacles in your path, heavy duty tires that can withstand any terrain, a LED light bar, and a splash guard behind the radiator grille on the front. Peugeot has multiple Concept vehicles, all of which are built to take on any adventure you choose.

Airstream Autobahn

Airstream prides themselves on creating the most luxury camper vans on the market. This Autobahn is built onto a 4×4 Mercedes-Benz chassis and includes tons of features that make this vehicle top of the line in design and comfort. The inside is customizable, with three different color options for the leather interior and multiple seating options. Each passenger seat can enjoy their own climate control, plenty of space, and a personal USB charger, and you can keep up with all of your modern needs with the luxury Corian refrigerator top. The V6 turbo diesel engine lets you enjoy an impressive 18 mpg on the highway, so you can keep on the go with less stops in between.

Doubleback Van

This ultimate camper van, built onto a Volkswagen 2.5 TDI Transporter chassis, quickly transforms into an extended sleeping module. The rear pod extends an extra six feet, while the roof tilts upwards to allow for plenty of head room. The van’s body is built from aerospace-spec technology, so you can rest assured that you have safety and durability to meet top standards. Each model is hand built and have a few customizable options, including multiple different finishes and options for interior design. Enjoy a comfortable double bed and multiple daytime seating options, as well as a small kitchenette and dining area. The van can easily support up to 900 pounds of extra gear and personal belongings, so don’t be afraid to pack whatever you might need.

Volkswagen California

From the trusted German engineering at Volkswagen, you can enjoy this compact camper van and all its top-notch safety standards. Despite its small size, it easily converts to sleep up to four people, includes a full miniature kitchen, a dinette area, plenty of convenient storage options, folding mirrors, and camping table and chairs to use under the retractable awning. Enjoy interior climate control, LED headlights for optimal vision, and a pop-up top for extra head room. The California may look like a van, but it’s like a miniature home on wheels, with all of the comforts you’re used to.

Outside Van Apex

The Apex model by Outside Van allows you to choose from all of their premium options, but this model is built specifically to help you enjoy your outdoors experience. Enjoy everything you need for easy off-roading, like heavy duty A/T tires , a solar package, stealth kit, and more. Like many of their other vans, the Apex is built on a 4×4 Mercedes-Benz 144 Sprinter chassis, so you can expect the inside to be as luxurious as the outside. The inside has a convertible sleeping/sitting area that has roof for at least four people to ride or rest, and the luxurious interior built is impressive and inviting for guests.

Fiat Ducato

Fiat is iconic for its compact cars, but they build a pretty mean camping machine as well. The Ducato focuses on ergonomics, and fiat created a camping solution that is easily mobile and ultimately comfortable. The turning radius is rated best-in-class and the electricity is run through a stabilized circuit, so you don’t have to worry about any surges or power outages while on the go. Enjoy plug-in USB charging ports,a 5-inch touch screen UConnect radio with AUX port, built in TomTom satellite navigation, and even more options for a technologically advanced adventure. Enjoy a 24-hour fiat camper support line in 51 countries and 15 different language, so you’re never alone, no matter how far you go.

Outside Van Unicorn

If you’re looking for a mix of great design and heavy duty off-roading power, you’ve just found it. The Unicorn by Outside Van is perhaps the most design oriented camper van on the market and features a few gorgeous additions that are definitely easy on the eye, like all natural bamboo cabinetry, high output LED light bars, and custom color selections. A few other luxuries take comfort to the next level, like the Custom Thermo Fit mattress , A/C, and auxiliary seating. As always, the Unicorn is fashioned on a 4×4 Mercedes-Benz base, so it’s built for style, comfort, and durability.

Roadtrek SS Agile

The SS Agile by Roadtrek is both compact and ultimately elegant, featuring spacious bed and bath areas with a stand up/sit down shower. The bed comfortably sleeps two, while the dinette area seats up to five people. Choose from several different packages to include a high capacity hot water system, solar package, wireless internet access, and more. The SS Agile is built on a compact sized Mercedes chassis, but includes plenty of storage space to make traveling as comfortable and organized as possible.

Winnebago Revel 4×4

Another option by the trusted camper company, Winnebago, is the Revel 4×4, which is structurally designed to withstand any off-road experience, while offering more than enough storage for both personal belongings and recreational gear. The Revel gets pretty good gas mileage, but perhaps its defining feature is its integrated solar system. The entire system relies on roof mounted solar panels, that power the kitchen (refrigerator and stove), all the lights, television, and any other technology you need with no need for gas or propane.

Enjoy a Comfortable Adventure

No matter what you choose, #vanlife campers are all built for the same purpose: as an alternative option to RV’s to provide you with comfort and protection while on the go. Most camper vans will be filled with your basic necessities, like a small kitchen and sleeping area, but you can really amp it up for added comfort. Either way, travelling in your new camper van beats stinky motel stays any day.

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17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)

Our shortlist for the best camper vans in 2024, including long-time favorites, new models, and european models now available in the u.s..

• 1 Our shortlist for the Best Camper Vans in 2024, including long-time favorites, new models, and European models now available in the U.S.!
• 2 How Do You Choose the Right Camper Van?
• 3.1 1. Grech STRADA-ion
• 3.2.1 The No Wood RV = Mold & Mildew Resistant (Video)
• 3.3 3. Roadtrek Pivot
• 3.4 4. Roadtrek Chase
• 3.5 5. Coachmen Galleria Li3
• 3.6 6. Coachmen Beyond
• 3.7 7. Coachmen Nova
• 3.8 8. Thor Tellaro
• 3.9 9. 4X4 Tiffin GH1
• 3.10 10. Winnebago Travato
• 3.11 11. Winnebago Revel
• 3.12 12. Pleasure-Way Plateau FL
• 3.13 13. Airstream Rangeline
• 3.14 14. Airstream Interstate
• 3.15 15. Entegra Coach Launch
• 3.16 16. Westfalia Wave
• 3.17 17. The Advanced RV Van
• 4 Your Vote for the Best Camper Vans
• 5 Our RV Buying Secrets

If you’re looking for the freedom and sense of adventure that a motorhome provides but want the mobility of a car, then you should consider a camper van.

Camper vans are an attractive option given that they are compact, rugged, and can be as equipped as you need. You can go pretty much anywhere a car can go and get better gas mileage than bigger RVs.

They come in a variety of sizes and configurations depending on their purpose.

Some are designed for weekend travel, while others can accommodate simple full-time living. Some are for campgrounds, and others for boondocking. Some are cheap, and others are shockingly expensive!

(Curious what a $500,000 camper van entails? See at the end of the list!)

How Do You Choose the Right Camper Van?

Like other RV classes, there are many options for camper vans on the market. Perhaps too many. That's why we're highlighting the best ones.

Choosing the best camper van for you depends on your travel plans, as well as the following considerations:

• Your Budget
• Size to accommodate your gear and passengers
• Drivetrain (2-wheel, 4-wheel, or all-wheel drive)
• Diesel vs. gasoline
• Service history and mileage (if buying used)
• Weekender vs. Fulltime

The following list of 2024 best camper vans gives you a range of the above features.

The Best Camper Vans 2024

Based on our experience, many visits to RV shows, and other campers, we’ve compiled a list of the best camper vans for you to check out this year.

You'll find camper vans that are tried-and-true, as well as new models that are catching the attention of RVers everywhere.

The following are listed in no particular order, as the “best” depends on your individual needs and wants. But this shortlist will help you determine which camper van is best for you.

1. Grech STRADA-ion

The STRADA-ion is Grech's flagship Sprinter Motorhome. It's a luxury Class B with an advanced lithium-ion battery energy storage system. It provides a total of 1,260Ah, which will run the AC for up to 12 hours on battery power alone.

It has a 280-amp alternator that charges the lithium-ion batteries from idle , meaning you don't have to drive to charge your batteries. The battery management software pairs with its Fire Fly control system, which you can operate from your phone.

The 2024 Grech RV Strada is built on the all-new 2023 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD. with air suspension.

It's 24 feet long and sleeps 2. It comes in 2 floorplans, the Lounge Plan and Tour Plan. The biggest difference between the two is that the Lounge Plan seats up to 9, whereas the Tour Plan “only” seats 7. I put “only” in quotations because 7 is a lot of people!

And all seats have seat belts! Many campervans can “seat” several guests, but only provide seatbelts for 2-4. The Stradia provides a safer alternative for all of your travel companions.

MSRP starts at $259,900.

2. Embassy RV Dolphin SL

The Embassy Dolphin SL is known for its revolutionary floor plan that allows for two separate sleeping areas . That means a person can stay awake or wake up early and not disturb the person who's sleeping!

This separate sleeping arrangement also makes it popular among single parents, traveling friends, and traveling business partners. And, speaking of work, the rear bed platform converts into a table-height desk.

It's 22'2″ long and built on a Ford Transit Chassis. The kitchen and bathroom separate the front living/sleeping area from the rear bedroom. Your usable space can be extended with an optional rear porch with tent.

The Dolphin SL has a lithium-ion battery system. It doesn't come with solar, but the system can be fully charged by the engine. You can add a battery management system with Bluetooth™ connectivity as an option.

Unfortunately, Embassy doesn't list MSRP, but it likely starts in the $150,000 – $175,000 range. So, you have to call to get a quote for your desired floorplan and options.

The No Wood RV = Mold & Mildew Resistant (Video)

BUT! Perhaps the most NOTABLE FEATURE of the latest Dolphin SL RV Model is that it's a No Wood RV. It's made of composite material that makes it mold and mildew-resistant .

That's excellent news for RVers in wet or tropical climates. (Hear that Florida snowbirds?!)

3. Roadtrek Pivot

The Roadtrek Pivot is 20'9″ long and built on a RAM Promaster 3500 chassis. It comfortably seats 4 and sleeps 3 with an optional folding mattress.

It has two different bed setup options: two twin beds or one king bed. The optional single folding mattress can be laid across the front two captain seats.

A popular feature is its Duo Space bathroom , which comes standard. It has a pivoting wall that creates a separate showering area and keeps the other amenities dry. They market it as the “driest wet bath ever.”

It also has an outdoor shower and rear access doors. So, you can open the side sliding door and rear swing doors for an open indoor/outdoor setup.

It comes standard with a 13′ power awning, 600 AMP lithium battery system, generator, 300-watt solar panels, and 12/100 V power inverter.

MSRP starts at $183,386.

4. Roadtrek Chase

We've owned a couple Roadtreks, so it's no surprise another model makes it on the list. The Chase is one of the most affordable on the list with it's simple, efficient design.

The Chase is 20'9″ and built on the Ram ProMaster 3500 extended van chassis. It can seat 4 and sleep 3 with an optional folding mattress that lays over the cab seats.

It has a 300W solar panel and 600 amp lithium battery system. Some other nice standard features include a 13′ power awning, 11,000 BTU A/C, and heavy duty magnetic bug screens for rear and passenger sliding door.

MSRP is $176,386.

5. Coachmen Galleria Li3

The Coachmen Galleria is 24'3″ long and built on the award-winning 3500 Mercedes Sprinter extended platform. We toured it and took the above picture at the Florida RV SuperShow.

It has four floorplan options , including one option (24A) with a fixed bed and power incline storage underneath. Its kitchen is on the bigger side, including a 7.3 cu. ft. refrigerator with pull-out freezer in the 24A and 24FL floor plans.

Standard features include an Onan quiet generator, 330W solar, and a standard 330 Ah AGM battery with 2,000W Pure Sine Wave Inverter.

But you'll notice that we specifically listed the Galleria Li3 . This is an upgraded option for a 630 Ah Li3 lithium battery that we think makes it one of the best camper vans. (The model pictured above is an Li3).

Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $250,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

6. Coachmen Beyond

Coachment earns another spot on the list with the Beyond. We toured it and took the above picture at the Florida RV SuperShow.

At 22'2 “, it's two feet shorter and gets 1 mpg better gas mileage than the Galleria. It's built on the Ford Transit AWD chassis with a 3.5L EcoBoost engine and 10-speed transmission.

The Beyond has three floorplan options , including the 22RB that has a rear wet bath with a flip-down sink and shower. This roomier bathroom makes it a popular choice.

Some standard features include a 2.8KW gasoline generator, 195W solar panel with dual charging capabilities, and a 2,000W Xantrex inverter with auto-gen start. Like the Galleria, you can opt for the Li3 Lithium Battery System, among other nice upgrade options.

Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $200,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

7. Coachmen Nova

That's right, Coachmen has a third model that makes our list of the best camper vans. The Nova (as the name implies) is the newest member of the Coachmen Class B family.

The Nova is 20'11” and has three floorplans to choose from. Like the Beyond, it has a floorplan option with a rear bath (20RB).

It's built on the Ram Pro Master 3500 extended Chassis with a 3.6L V6 engine. It comes standard with 220W solar and 3 Group 31 115AH AGM Batteries.

Like the other two Coachmen on this list, you can opt for the Li3 Lithium Battery System. A unique option the Nova offers is a Pop Top with a 190W solar panel, skylight, and Thule awning.

Again, Coachmen doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $175,000. You'd need to contact a local dealer to learn more.

8. Thor Tellaro

The Tellaro from Thor is one of the most affordable camper vans on this list. It features many of the same functionalities as their Sequence model, except the Tellaro is available with a pop-top.

The Tellaro is 21′ long, and without the pop-top, sleeps two people. It's available in 4 floorplans, so you have lots of choices with this one. We particularly like the 20A floorplan that gives you a sky bunk option in addition to a rear bedroom.

Standard equipment includes a Thule bike rack, 190-watt solar panel, dual 100-Ah lithium house batteries, power awning, and a power-saver AC system. This model features the same generator you’ll find in the Solis, as well as a similar bathroom.

The Tellaro, however, does have a few advantages over the Winnebago Solis. For example, it has a bigger dining table and refrigerator, extended storage space, and a powered awning.

Tellaro MSRP starts at $140,560, depending on the floorplan you select. The 20A floorplan that we like starts at $144,760.

9. 4X4 Tiffin GH1

The GH1 is the new Tiffin 4×4 AWD vehicle, replacing the Tiffin Cahaba. It's a small but mighty camper van that seats 4 and sleeps 2.

The overall length is 19'6″ long and built on a Mercedes 2500 Sprinter chassis with a 3.0L turbo diesel engine.

It has on-board 200-watt solar panel, and a 540-Amp Hour Lithium-Ion Battery Kit with a 3,000-Watt Inverter. It's pre-wired for optional Starlink Pro and its 15,000-BTU A/C has soft-start and WirelessCapability.

The sleek design includes all-metal running boards, a fixed and side-mounted roof access ladder, and a powered awning. Another cool feature is its on-board air compressor.

Tiffin doesn't list the MSRP, but it likely starts around $180,000. Contact a local dealer to learn more.

10. Winnebago Travato

The Travato from Winnebago is one of the top-selling camper vans in North America. At 21’, it sleeps 2 and seats 4.

It has 2 floorplans, one with a single large Murphy+bed (59G) and the other with two single beds (59K). Both floor plans are available in either AGM batteries/generator or lithium with a second under-the-hood alternator (59GL and 59KL).

It's built on a Ram ProMaster chassis with a 3.6L V6 engine.

Roof and sidewall insulation, heated tanks and available dual-pane acrylic insulated windows extend the camping season. We love winter camping, and even wrote an ebook for those who want to give it a try.

The Travato features a Pure 3  Advanced Energy System that provides more than 9,000 useable watt-hours of power. You can boost that to over 12,000 with their optional 4-module energy pack.

The 4 floorplans range from $175,292 to $210,515.

Winnebago also offers a 4-sleeper floorplan with the Solix 59PX . It starts at $152,169.

11. Winnebago Revel

Winnebao earns another spot on the list with the Revel. It's now built on the AWD Mercedes-Benz® Sprinter chassis with a 4 cylinder turbo diesel engine.

The Revel is 19'7″, sleeps 2, and seats 4. It comes with one 320-amp hour LiFePO 4  battery you can monitor via Bluetooth. ®  Plus, a quiet, Hydronic Heating System.

The Revel's most notable feature that sets it apart from others is its power lift bed with large gear garage below. It gives you extra gear storage without sacrificing sleeping space. We also like the fold-down outside table.

MSRP is $223,495, which we think is reasonable for this compact RV that fits a lot of gear.

12. Pleasure-Way Plateau FL

The Plateau FL is 22'9″ long and built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 3500 van chassis. It has a 3.0L V6 BlueTEC diesel engine.

It has two separate living areas with an electric sofa that coverts to a queen bed in the back and a lounge area in the front. This setup allows two people to easily enjoy “Me Time” with separate TVs and sitting areas.

The front lounge also has a multifunctional workstation. And the gallery kitchen has more counterspace than you often see in camper vans.

The Plateau FL has Dual 100Ah lithium batteries, a 2000-watt pure-sine wave inverter, and an Onan generator.

MSRP is $204,750.

13. Airstream Rangeline

The Airstream Rangeline is 21′ long and is built on the RAM ProMaster 3500 chassis. It has a 3.6L Pentastar V6 engine.

It has a simple, efficient floorplan with a rear sleeping area for 2 and seat capacity for 4. You can expand the living and sleeping space with an optional pop-top.

It comes standard with a single 270Ah Deep Cycle Lithium Battle Born Battery (LiFePO4), 100 amp charger, a 2,000 watt power inverter, and a 200 watt solar panel.

It may not have as many bells and whistles as other camper vans, but it's very practical and comfortable. Plus, it's one of the most affordable options.

Pricing starts at $147,570.

14. Airstream Interstate

The Airstream Interstate comes in 6 models and two sizes: 19′ and 24′. You get lots of options, especially when it comes to how many people it can accommodate.

The 19-foot models sleep 2 and seat 4, but the 24-foot models can sleep two and seat up to 9 people! It's hard to go into detail about the features and floor plans, because you have so many options.

But Airstream lives up to its iconic name with all six models. So, they're worth checking out individually. The image above is the largest, most expensive of the bunch.

MSRP ranges from $178,640 to $246,351.

15. Entegra Coach Launch

The Entegra Coach Launch is 19'6″ long and is built on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 2500 4×4 van chassis. It has a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel engine.

The interior includes a generous garage space in the rear with a drop-down bed. It can sleep 2 and seat 3 in a small yet functional living area.

On the exterior, it has a fold-down exterior table, a double roof rack, and a moveable roof ladder. New for 2024, is its integrated Starlink Satellite Internet System.

It comes standard with a 48V 210Ah smart lithium battery that provides 10KWh of power. It also has a 3,500W inverter and 200W solar panels.

The Entegra Coach website has a Build & Price feature, which shows the basic MSRP at $246,375.

16. Westfalia Wave

Twenty years after leaving the American market, the Italian RV company, Westfalia, returns to our shores. Westfalia campers are best known for their pop-up roofs, but they are also introducing a brand-new model called the Wave .

The Wave is 20′-9″ on a Dodge Promaster chassis. It has a complete bathroom, kitchen, and versatile sleeping options for up to 6 people. Yes, this campervan can sleep up to six people!

Their patented convertible passenger seating flips down over the driver's area to create a third bed. That's in addition to the pop-top bed that's perfect for kids and the larger bed options in the back. Of course, 6 adults would be pushing it, but it's a great option for families with small kids or teens.

Other notable features include:

• Modern natural tones
• Rear, under-bed trunk that can fit mountain bikes
• Pass-through storage that can fit long gear, like paddle boards
• Cassette toilet in wet bath (yes, it has a shower!)
• Propane cooktop, microwave oven, and Vitrifrigo Refrigerator
• 600-amp hours of lithium batteries & 3,000-watt inverter
• Firefly tablet-style multiplex system

We got to tour it at this year's RV SuperShow in Tampa, and were impressed. They list two Florida RV dealers on their American website and include MSRP, so it seems like they are officially available*!

The non-pop top Wave MSRP is $156,627. The Wave Pop Top MSRP is $167,616.

*It's rather common at RV shows for European models to be showcased and promoted as “coming to America” without any substance backing that up. They attract a lot of hype at RV shows , but then you never see these RVs actually make it onto American roads.

So, it's reassuring that Westfalia already has an established and growing dealership network. Pro Tip: Be sure to ask about FIRM delivery dates. If the best they can offer is “available soon,” consider holding off.

17. The Advanced RV Van

Rounding out our list of the best Cass B RVs for 2022 are the custom vans built by Advanced RV of Willoughby, Ohio.

They are not for everyone because of the cost. They even clearly state in their FAQs that “an ARV will cost 2-4 times more than a factory-built, class B motorhome purchased from a dealer.” They're very possibly the most expensive campervan on the market.

These vans – built on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis – are completely customized to the customer. Each one is built with features and a floor plan personally selected by the buyer after several days of planning with Advanced RV engineers and designers.

No two Advanced RV vans are alike, and each is named by the customer. From the time the order is submitted to the time it is delivered – usually a year-long process – it is referred to by that name and never a number. 

The vans typically have massive lithium battery power supplies, high-end, computer-controlled air suspension systems for smooth rides, handcrafted cabinetry, deluxe entertainment systems, and innovative components like recirculating water systems.

The vans start at about $340,000 and go up to around $500,000.

I told you these were not for everyone. But in a list of the best Class B RVs, Advanced RV has to be included. They truly are quality designs.

It is worth noting that they have Pre-Owned ARVs for sale on their website, as well. You don't get to fully customize it, but you do get a customized van at a better price.

Here's a video tour we did of the factory to give you an idea of the process.

Your Vote for the Best Camper Vans

We’d love to hear your opinions! Let us know in the comments which camper van you’d buy or already enjoy.

Our RV Buying Secrets

Next to your home, an RV is most likely the 2nd most expensive thing you'll ever purchase.

We get questions every day of other RVers wondering. “How do you buy a new or used RV?”

So we created a 75+-page downloadable digital guide to help you understand the nuances that come with purchasing an RV, where you can save thousands of dollars in the buying process, what the right questions are to ask dealers, what things to look out for, how to select the right unit, amenities, warranties, and so much more!

This ebook is designed to help make your purchase process as smooth as possible. And to teach you step-by-step exactly what to do so you can start your RV Lifestyle today!

Published on 2024-02-24

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

32 Responses to “17 Best Camper Vans 2024 (New Class B RVs Available!)”

April 02, 2024at2:05 am , judi ayam said:

Appreciate the recommendation. Let me try it out.

March 30, 2024at4:21 pm , scott huffman said:

These are all great but I am telling you I own a 1998 Chinook and it just blows all of these out of the water. Just a lot more room. 4 people can comfortably play cards around the resturant like booth and table. My advise is buy a mint one for 20k and spend 10k updating all the electronics. Only downside is I am 5-9 200lbs, not very big, but I have trouble wiping my butt in the little wet bath. Hey, I didn’t buy it for the pooper anyway but it is good enough. Just dont eat a lot of donuts.

February 03, 2024at7:57 am , Frank wright said:

Mike, I was surprised you did not have the Pleasureway Ontour 2.0 and 2.2 in your list. These are some of the most sought after vans in the country. I have an Ontour 2.2 and this coach is amazing. From the Ford eco boost engine to the large bathroom it is close to the perfect B. This doesn’t take into account the customer service Pleasureway is known for. I am 6ft 4in and about 280lbs and it is the only B van than is comfortable for someone my size.

January 26, 2024at3:44 am , Murray Levine said:

I own a Grech 2022 Turismo Ion RV and the Grech build is teriffic. All A1 construction. But you referred to the company as “Gretch.” There is no “T” in the name. The people at the factory are very friendly and they welcome you if you have any problems.

January 26, 2024at11:01 am , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Oh no – thank you for pointing out this typo! Team RV Lifestyle

January 25, 2024at11:07 am , Warren Gress said:

Great summary! I did notice you mentioned the Travato has 4 floor plans. They have 4 trim levels, but only a G and K floor plan, available in either AGM batteries/generator or lithium with a second under the hood alternator.

January 25, 2024at4:20 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Great catch – we clarified the copy – thanks, Warren! Team RV Lifestyle

May 16, 2023at2:19 pm , Dede Bett said:

Just an FYI: The Pleasure-Way Plateau is on a 3500 Mercedes Benz Sprinter van, not a 2500.

We own a 2018 Pleasure-Way XLTS, the larger B+ van, they currently don’t make them (too bad, it’s great!) and we love it! We looked at several others and felt the quality of Pleasure-Way was better than some on your list that you’ve rated higher, but that’s our opinion.

May 17, 2023at4:41 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Pleasure-Way makes a great van, for sure! Team RV Lifestyle

July 19, 2022at9:48 am , Michal Grupa said:

Great list! I recently did 2 road trips, 1 in a Winnebago Solis in the States and 1 in a brand new VW T6.1 California in Portugal. The ‘Winnie’ was pretty good but it’s a big sloppy thing, driving it just isn’t much fun and we had a bunch of issues with it form the start… Not Ideal…

The 2nd trip was much different. Portugal is incredible and I was blown away by the level of quality in the VW camper. The fit and finish was really nice and tight. If anyone is heading out that way check out the company, Siesta Campers, I think they’re really onto something special there. Enjoy the ride.

[Link deleted]

July 19, 2022at5:15 pm , Team RV Lifestyle said:

Thanks for sharing your experience ! Team RV Lifestyle

June 26, 2022at4:03 pm , The Luxury Camper Van Buying Guide | RV Lifestyle said:

[…] a more detailed look at the best camper vans in general (all ranges), check out this article: The Best Camper Vans. We compiled that list based on our experience and other campers we’ve gotten to […]

June 21, 2021at7:21 pm , Roger said:

Betty: We will work with you if you are located far away to help reduce your delivery cost — PLMK?

July 03, 2021at10:46 pm , Joel said:

Hi Roger, is this still available? Does it have a toilet? Thanks, Joel

July 10, 2021at11:06 pm , ROGER REINER said:

Yes, everything works, but the shower is not currently hooked up. That’s the way it was when we bought it, but we did have it checked out and it does work, but needs to be re-connected. We never needed it so have not done so yet.

June 15, 2021at2:48 am , Betty Brunson said:

Very interested in your van. Where are you located?

June 17, 2021at11:57 am , Roger said:

Western SD, near Rapid City, Sturgis, Mount Rushmore, etc.

February 15, 2021at10:11 am , ZX Macman said:

I understand the Winnebago Travato is the No. 1 selling camper van but you never mention it.

January 24, 2021at12:16 pm , alan schroepfer said:

Looking for a short 17′ solid high-top B motorhome like the old Roadtrek 170. Todays “short” advertised B’s .are at least 19′. Revel’s Mercedes is too expensive. I’ve called the major B manufacturers and as of January 2021 no USA builder plans to meet this market. Is there a European product like this being sold and available in the lower 48?

June 14, 2021at5:24 pm , ROGER REINER said:

We have a 1990 Ford E-250 fully self-contained. Shower works but is not hooked up. Few minor dings and repairs. We bought this as a basket case and then had nearly everything repaired so it all works fine now, I think. Has new Michelin tires, new computer, many other things. Microwave, fridge, TV, 2-burner stove, Onan 2800 generator, Comfortably sleeps 3 adults or maybe two adults, two children. Respond with ph# or email and I can provide pics and other details. We don’t need to sell but will as both of us are facing health issues. ~est. $20,000 or so.

June 14, 2021at5:42 pm , Roger said:

Forgot to mention this is a factory Ford 190 Falcon. Mileage is 99435. No leaks on vehicle or engine, trans, etc., all 3 new fuel pumps, both batteries replaced, tranny flushed, inverter plate replaced, full tune-up, manual awning works fine, AC/heater work good, plus several other minor things done and a few yet to be including a few cosmetic things. Currently winterized.

June 16, 2021at4:23 pm , ROGER REINER said:

Forgot to mention it has a heavy duty hitch as well. We debugged this a few years ago on a 3000 mile round trip to the Mojave desert in S. CA. — you can try to reach me at rushcard1 which is registered under yahoo.com using the at sign — the generator is actually a 2.8 KW Onan and looks new — thanks.

January 21, 2021at9:22 am , Maureen Collind said:

What about the Recon and Metris camper vans? How do you rate them?

January 19, 2021at12:41 pm , Mark said:

All units listed, except the Revel, have a Truma heating system onboard. Focus on reliability and comfort from these OEMs is clear from their selection of systems on board.

January 19, 2021at9:30 am , Doug said:

No AC or generator on the Solis 59P

January 19, 2021at2:34 pm , Amy Delpiere said:

You’re right Doug. I noticed that also. My understanding is that you need to upgrade to the PX to get enough space on the roof for an AC unit. The small bathroom size may be a deal-breaker for my husband, but I still like the Solis a lot.

January 19, 2021at9:02 am , Anne said:

After many years of searching, I found the Panoramic- built in Quebec Canada. As soon as I walked in, I knew it was the one. Quality is better than all others, in my opinion.

January 19, 2021at8:50 am , richard said:

Coach House Arriva. Same size as the Airstream, equally high-end finishes, and a dry bath!

January 19, 2021at8:49 am , Marsha said:

So sad you don’t even mention Roadtrek anymore….

January 19, 2021at12:34 pm , Pamela Forman said:

It is, isn’t it. Probably sorry they don’t have one anymore!

July 18, 2021at2:31 pm , Joni said:

Since I have one. Roadtrek would probably be my number 1 choice.

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The 10 Best Minivans For Camping

For outdoor people, camping season happens throughout the year. Rain, snow, or sunshine, being able to drive out to your favorite spot in a minivan to camp is as good as it gets.

So, what are the best minivans for camping?  Here’s a list of ten of the best options:

• Toyota Sienna
• Honda Odyssey
• Chrysler Pacifica
• Kia Carnival
• Ford Transit Connect
• Ram ProMaster City
• Mercedes-Benz Metris
• Dodge Grand Caravan
• Nissan Quest

In addition to a quick overview of these minivans, we’ll also discuss what you should look for when buying a minivan for camping and how to convert a minivan into a vehicle that you can camp in.

We also have a post that tells  which vans you can stand up in  if you would like to be able to do that.

Which Minivan is the Best for Camping?

The following list of vans are some of the best minivans for camping; however, we haven’t listed them in any particular order.

1. Toyota Sienna

Toyota is known for producing high-quality vehicles that are solid and well-built. As a result, the Sienna is worth a second look if you’re seeking a minivan.

It’s versatile and spacious, an ideal choice for your everyday commute, with room to pack all your gear for that back-to-nature weekend getaway.

The Sienna is an excellent example of the dedication to detail and superb craftsmanship that Toyota continues to display. It’s a perfect commuter vehicle, but it also has quite a few traits that make it a top choice for campers.

A few pros and cons of the Toyota Sienna:

• Removing the seats is very easy if you choose to do so in model years 2020 and prior; no  special tools are required to get the job done, which means you can clear space for a bed and other camping essentials. Even the seat brackets are removable, unlike many other vehicles on the list.
• The side sliding door makes the Sienna easy to access in seconds, and you can fit right through easily . The wide side door is also convenient if you’re hauling large camping equipment. In addition, you also have the hatch door making it convenient to slide your bedding right in. 
• The roof of the Toyota Sienna is primarily flat,  which is perfect for adding roof racks,  setting up solar panels, carrying surfboards and other outdoor gear. It comes stock with two brackets on the top for you to attach an array of items rather than taking up space inside of the minivan.
• The Woodland Edition has a standard 1500W-capable power outlet  perfect for running a portable fridge.
• USB ports in different strategic locations throughout the van, perfect for powering your USB fan, LED string lights, charging up your windproof rechargeable lighter,  and keeping all of your other gadgets up and running.
• The overall 68-inch height of the Sienna  makes it impossible for an adult to stand inside the vehicle.  It’s less than 45 inches high inside, so you’ll have to crawl or crouch to move around.
• The cargo area floor is uneven.  Depending on the vehicle’s year, some have a more even cargo area than others.
• Starting with the 2021 model year, the second-row seats are no longer removable.

2. Honda Odyssey

The Honda Odyssey is another minivan that will be around for many years to come. It’s one of the top-sellers on the market across the USA, and repair parts are available at almost every auto parts store. The Odyssey is a vehicle to consider for camping, reliability, and spaciousness.

The Odyssey is an excellent minivan; its interior is spacious and offers plenty of seating flexibility. With removable 2nd-row seats and 3rd-row seats that stow in the floor, there’s plenty of area to pack your camping gear. In addition, a quick kick under the rear bumper gives hands-free access to the cargo area.

Some pros and cons of the Honda Odyssey:

• Much like the Kia Sedona, the Honda Odyssey  offers plenty of window space.  You can look out from all sides without being limited or blocked by a lot of metal structures or anything else. There’s not much more someone could want in a minivan for camping adventures.
• The interior space is ideal for campers who want to stretch out.  You can remove the seats in a matter of minutes, giving you more room to sleep.
• Like almost any other Honda vehicle,  the Odyssey should last for over a decade with proper maintenance.  The three-year – 36,000-mile warranty gives you the security of not having to worry about repairs initially, making this a great option for families and adventurers alike.
• Most models of this minivan come with a sunroof,  which adds to the outdoor feeling that we all crave when we’re camping.  Open the top window to let in the fresh air, or keep it closed while still letting the sunshine through.
• Not all of the Odysseys come with roof racks,  making it challenging to fit your gear on top. To make the roof problems worse, it’s slightly curved, creating a challenge for those who want solar power or flattened surfaces for camping equipment.
• The city MPG is 19, which is near the low-end of the spectrum.  However, it’s matched with an above-average highway MPG of 28.

3. Chrysler Pacifica

The Town and Country was one of their most popular models. However, Chrysler replaced it with the Pacifica, with many of the improvements that customers wanted. The simple body style is a welcomed surprise if you don’t prefer all the fancy cosmetic changes to modern minivans.

The Pacifica is spacious, with plenty of built-in storage areas. The Stow’ n Go seats simply fold and stow in the floor, leaving plenty of space for all your gear. The Pacifica is a pleasure to drive and is available with optional all-wheel drive. Additionally, with its 3,600-pound towing capacity, you can bring along the toys.

Some pros and cons of the Chrysler Pacifica:

• The rear seats disconnect and fold down, so you’re free to adjust and change the interior however you’d like to.  You don’t have to remove the seats and take them entirely out of the van to have a flat floor.
• There’s even a side storage area that fits into the rear of the vehicle  to store small tools and camping equipment.
• In addition to the side storage, you can remove the false bottom near the backside of the minivan to store camping stoves, kitchen utensils, and more.  It sits flush with the carpet to make it easy for you to sleep on with a mattress.
• Both sides of this minivan have sliding doors.  You can open them both to promote optimal airflow on hot days. If you have a fan running throughout the afternoon, you’ll be able to relax without feeling overheated from the sun.
• The new model years are available in AWD.  Now you can go camping in the late and early seasons without worrying about not being able to travel in a late or early snowstorm.
• The fuel tank only holds 19 gallons,  which isn’t a lot when you only get 19 MPG fuel efficiency. Fortunately, the MPG increases to 28 when you’re driving on the highway.
• The cost of the Pacifica Pinnacle starts at right around $55,000.  For camping purposes, this minivan might be decked out with a little more refined features than you might want to get destroyed with the rugged use a camping vehicle will get.

Other Posts of Interest

• Why We Bought A Yeti Cooler
• Camping Gas vs. LPG: Is There A Difference?
• Is it Safe to Sleep in a Van? The Essential Guide

4. Kia Carnival

The Kia Carnival made its debut for the 2022 model year, combining to blend the versatility of a minivan with the convenience of an SUV. Marketed as an MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle), it has a towing capacity of 3,500 lbs. and a seating capacity of up to 8 people. It replaces the ever-popular Kia Sedona.

The Carnival has interior features everyone will love while providing plenty of space and a relaxed ride, perfect for long road trips and daily commutes. Removable 2nd-row seats and 3rd-row seats that drop into the floor, there’s ample cargo room. In addition, a powerful V6 engine provides robust performance and 3,500-pounds of towing capacity.

Let’s take a look at a few of the pros and cons of the Carnival:

• Sliding doors on both sides of the vehicle  for easy access to either sleep or stow your camping gear.
• When the Kia Carnival SX is set up in the 2-seat cargo mode, you can fit a 4′ x 8′ sheet of plywood in it!  So there is plenty of room to stretch out to get some much-needed shuteye.
• USB charging ports are located strategically throughout the vehicle,  so you can stay powered up no matter where you are in the vehicle.
• It has a higher ground clearance  than most minivans clearing an amazing 6.8 inches, allowing you to get a little farther off the road than usual. 
• Smaller third-row window than usual. This feature, in some ways, limits vision while driving.
• The Carnival SX Prestige has captain chairs in the second row, and they can’t be removed,  which severely limits the amount of space available for sleeping in this model.
• The Carnival doesn’t come with an AWD option,  limiting the places that you can go and the times of year you can go there.

5. Ford Transit Connect

Although known as a cargo van by most people, the Ford Transit Connect is, in reality, a minivan. The Transit Connect is available in cargo and passenger versions, with the latter providing several packages that include seating options for up to 7 people. 

Convenient dual sliding side doors and fold-flat 2nd and 3rd-row seats provide easy access and plenty of cargo room for those camping essentials. Despite the 4-cylinder engine, it accelerates rather quickly thanks to the lightweight materials used throughout the vehicle’s frame.

Some of the pros and cons of the Ford Transit Connect to consider:

• The cargo space in the Transit Connect is incredibly large.  With up to 123 cubic feet at your disposal, you’ll have no problem bringing all of the camping gear that you want. There’s even enough space to throw a solar panel on the roof and run the electrical wires to the interior.
• The fuel economy ranges from  24 city to 29 highway miles per gallon.  When it comes to larger minivans, you won’t find anything that comes close to the level of efficiency produced by this vehicle.
• You can pick out a cargo version or a passenger version. Cargo van heights go up to 49.8 inches on the LWB model and 43.3 inches in the passenger wagon LWB. If you buy the cargo vehicle, you’ll have an empty canvas to create the ultimate minivan for camping. 
• As mentioned previously in this section, the Transit Connect only comes in 4-cylinder models. While it’s not too much of a restriction,  you’ll definitely feel a limitation if you have loaded up the cargo space and try to accelerate.
• It’s somewhat shorter than almost any other minivan on the market.  If you’re looking for a floor space that allows you to stretch out at night, you’ll need to remove all the seats behind the front row in the passenger van.

6. Ram ProMaster City

The ProMaster City is available in a cargo and passenger wagon version. The passenger model offers seating for up to five. The convenient fold and tumble rear seats are arrangeable into nine different configurations making hauling either people or cargo simple. Dual sliding doors allow you to easily get in from either side, and the split rear doors open 180 degrees to accommodate all your camping gear.

Some pros and cons of the Ram ProMaster City:

• Base models start as low as around $26,700 , so it won’t bust your budget. The various models offer a couple of different available window options. All models are front-wheel drive and powered by a four-cylinder engine.
• Side panels are nearly vertical, allowing for better customization.  In addition, it’s relatively easy to get in and out of with its low step-in height. For a small van, it has a spacious 131.7 cubic feet of cargo space.
• You can’t stand upright and move around in it,  so when you are van camping, this might be an inconvenience, especially on days when it is raining.
• There is no extended wheelbase option,  so this van might not be the best choice if you were looking for more room.

7. Mercedes-Benz Metris

Mercedes-Benz’s legendary build quality makes the Metris an excellent choice. Available in passenger and cargo versions, the passenger version can accommodate up to eight people. In addition, the 2nd and 3rd-row seats can be reconfigured or removed, allowing ample space for passengers and cargo.

The Metris is what is considered a mid-sized van. The small size and look of the Metris make you think it’s a minivan. However, it has way more cargo space, and the inside is easily customizable for work, camping, and more. With 183 cubic feet in the back, you’ll be able to pack in everything you need for one incredible van camping adventure.

Consider some of these pros and cons of the Mercedes-Benz Metris:

• If you aren’t comfortable driving a larger cargo van like the  Sprinter , the Metris offers a perfect combination of spaciousness and easy operation. Whether you purchase the cargo or the passenger model,  you’ll be able to maneuver the van almost anywhere.
• The price is less than what you would think for a Mercedes-Benz vehicle. With a manufacturer’s suggested retail price below $35,000,  finding a similar small camping van or anything nearly as comfortable would be hard.
• Compared to other compact vans, such as the Transit Connect, the Metris has a  payload capacity that’s almost 1,000 pounds more.  The additional capacity is beneficial when you’re trying to fit everything you can for a day in the mountains.
• The Metris also has a somewhat  impressive towing capacity of 5,000 pounds,  exceeding what you would expect for such a small van. It also has a much smaller turning radius and a cargo space that beats the Ford Transit Connect.
• The Metris  is a little more costly  than some of the other van options that are out there.
• Even though it is roomy for a van,  it still doesn’t have enough height to be able to stand.

8. Kia Sedona

If you’re looking for a larger minivan for camping, look no further. The Kia Sedona is arguably one of the best choices that you’ll find. Not only is it spacious with plenty of interior room to spare, but it’s also quite affordable. 

Kia discontinued production of the Sedona in 2021, and it was replaced with the above-mentioned Kia Carnival. However, they’re still readily available. The Sedona remains a good choice for those looking for a reliable minivan. You’ll appreciate Sedona’s comfortable interior on those long weekend road trips.

Here’s a look at some of the pros and cons of the Kia Sedona:

• The ample cargo space  is more significant than almost any other minivan out there.  You and a couple of friends can set up the interior to create a dream of a camping vehicle. Remove the seats in under a few minutes, lay down a mattress, and have a blast wherever you go.
• The flat roof on the Sedona is perfect for camping gear.  Instead of using the interior space, add a roof rack and pod to pack some of your equipment.
• The seats in the Sedona fold down,  so you can either remove them or lay them out to sleep. If you’re often camping, removal is the way to go. On the other hand, short camping trips would call for simply laying the seats forward.
• The Kia Sedona has more window space than any other minivan.  If you love the thought of waking up to beautiful views of nature, then this vehicle will be the choice for you. They come with a light tint on the rear windows as well.
• Since the Kia Sedona is no longer in production,  they may be more challenging to find.
• The fuel economy isn’t something to brag about either.  With a city rating of 18 MPG and a highway rating of 24 MPG, it’s below most of the others.

9. Dodge Grand Caravan

Alongside the Odyssey and the Sienna, the Dodge Grand Caravan remained a leading seller on the minivan market. Unfortunately, the last year of production was the 2020 model year.

Its reliability and rugged nature, combined with spaciousness and comfort, make this family vehicle the perfect camping companion. Another feature that keeps this vehicle at the top is the fact that it’s affordable.

Let’s take a look at a few of the pros and cons of the Dodge Grand Caravan:

• This vehicle comes  with a 4-cylinder engine or a 6-cylinder engine,  depending on which model you choose. Four cylinders offer an excellent fuel economy rating, whereas six cylinders provide quick acceleration and easier speed maintenance.
• The gas tank is 20 gallons,  which is more than enough to drive for over 400 miles before filling it up again. You’ll get even more fuel efficiency from this vehicle if you drive on highways mostly.
• The interior seats up to seven passengers ; therefore, it’s quite spacious. Instead of being cramped in a small car, this minivan has plenty of room to stretch out and store your camping equipment.
• The large hatchback allows you to access everything from the back of the vehicle,  and it also has storage behind the third-row seat.
• Since it is no longer manufactured,  the Grand Caravan has limited availability.  And since it is no longer in production, it narrows the prospect of finding a low mileage one.

10. Nissan Quest

Production of the Nissan Quest stopped in 2017; however, they are still available used. If you’re looking to cut costs on mileage while still getting a long-lasting vehicle, then you’re in luck. The Quest has fuel-efficient features, and even with the reduced weight, it still provides plenty of towing capacity. You can pull small trailers or load up the interior with your camping gear.

Some pros and cons of the Nissan Quest:

• This vehicle is rather large when it comes to the cargo area,  which opens up a few options for larger beds and other items.  It’s also a great choice if you’re camping with a couple of people rather than by yourself.
• Although discontinued in 2017,  there are thousands of them still on the road.  
• The 27 MPG highway rating is quite impressive for a minivan.  It shatters the expectations of most other cargo and passenger vans, making it an economical choice for campers on a budget.
• With three rows of seats, this vehicle  allows you to choose which ones stay and which ones will go.  
• It’s not a problem right now, but eventually, it may  be difficult to find repair parts.  However, as long as plenty of them are on the road, this shouldn’t be an issue.
• The seat brackets are a pain to remove.  You’ll need a few tools, but elbow grease is the only way to pull them out without damaging the interior.

Bonus Choice

The Mazda 5 is another excellent choice, though, like the Quest production was discontinued in 2016. However, it’s perfect for solo campers who don’t want to deal with driving a large vehicle. It’s also worth noting that it has the option of coming with a sunroof.

Some pros and cons of the Mazda 5:

• If you don’t want to operate a larger vehicle, then the compact size of this minivan is ideal for you.  It’s short in height and length, making it feel much more like a sedan than a passenger van.
• The aerodynamic roof is one of the many features that help to improve the fuel economy of the Mazda 5.  The 4-cylinder engine starts up quickly and uses very little gasoline.
• Towing  a small teardrop trailer behind your minivan may be possible, depending on the model and options.  The combination would make an ideal camping setup, whether you’re sleeping in the minivan or a towed trailer.
• Unfortunately, the small interior  prevents more than one adult from sleeping inside.  However, you’ll be able to fit your child or a pet along with you.
• The Mazda 5 has been discontinued,  and you won’t be able to find a new model, but you can still have a small camping setup if you find a used one.

The models in our list that are now discontinued might be found on sites like  Autotrader ,  Carvana , or  Cars .

What to Look for When Buying a Minivan for Camping

When you’re ready to commit to a vehicle to camp out of, you should look for the correct features. As significant as fuel economy and advanced features are, many more basic amenities are required to enjoy camping.

Below, you’ll find a few different things you should look for when shopping for a minivan that you want to use while camping.

Interior space is the first and foremost vital feature to review.  If there’s not enough room for you and your camping gear, then there’s no point in buying the vehicle. Take an inventory of everything you plan to pack, then figure out how much space you’ll need.

Roof options are crucial, as well.  Whether you want to add a couple of solar panels or strap your snowboard to the roof of your minivan, you should always check out what the roof looks like before buying the vehicle. Don’t forget to look to see if it’s sloped or flattened for your equipment.

The type of tires that come stock with the minivan is significant.  If you want to go off-road, you need to ensure that you have the right tires for such activities. That shouldn’t be problematic, you can always install the proper tires on any minivan, but it’d be convenient if you could find one that already had them.

Windows and doors both have a considerable impact on your camping experiences.  Being able to look around in all directions is terrific, but so is privacy. Figure out the perfect balance and find the minivan that matches your requirements. Also, remember that you can always use window tint and covers to block people from looking inside.

Finally, seat functionality is worth considering.  Some seats fold, some may be removable, and many can do both. If you’re just looking for a minivan with seats that can lay down, you can choose almost any minivan on the list.

Don’t worry, though; if you keep these suggestions in mind when you’re shopping around, you’ll be able to find the perfect minivan in no time. The only other thing to think about is whether you want to buy a new or used vehicle.

How to Convert a Minivan for Camping

When you’re ready to go camping, it’s important to take note of all of the essentials. Most people throw a mattress, sleeping bag, and a  Coleman cooler  in the back and call it a day. But, to truly enjoy yourself out in the woods, you’ll most likely need more than that.

The bed setup needs to be comfortable and subject to the available room, for starters.  You can choose between an air mattress like  this one  or a traditional mattress. Whichever route you go, consider whether or not you’ll be removing the seats or folding them down. If you’re folding them, you’ll need a solid platform to lay across the top so you don’t sink into the gaps.

Next, think about what kind of hookups you’ll need.  Some people love to rough it out in the wilderness without anything, which is also known as ‘dry camping.’ On the other hand, you can use electricity and sewage hookups to get the creature comforts that we’re all used to having back home.

For electricity, you can use portable or installed solar panels.  A good option for a portable solar panel charger is the  Rockpals 100-watt foldable , designed for solar generators. Renogy makes a  200-watt panel RV kit  that works excellent for vans.

Some people prefer to hook cables straight into the battery of their minivan, but this process can drain it rather quickly. You could also use a battery bank that you charge at home before going on the adventure.

Finally, always figure out what you’ll be doing for trash and bathroom trips.  There are hundreds of buckets, cans, collapsible containers, and other options that you can use to collect trash. Many campgrounds come with dumpsters. Even if there aren’t any nearby, you can tie off the bag and place it in the dumpster when you leave.

As far as bathroom trips are concerned, there aren’t many choices when you’re camping in a minivan.  Some people prefer the classic  bucket-and-bag  setup, but others aren’t as comfortable trying it out. So before you book a campsite, locate all of the nearby bathrooms. Building a sewage system in a minivan isn’t viable because it’s too small of a space.

If you aren’t sure if a minivan is suitable for you, read our post “ The 8 Best Vans You Can Camp In ” to learn about some other options.

You can go camping out of almost any vehicle if you want to. There are quite a few minivans to try out,  but the ten choices on the list above are the best around.  You can choose based on body style, interior space, reliability, comfort, advanced features, and more. Try to write down a list of your requirements before you buy anything.

Minivans might be the best camping vehicle because they’re big enough for camping gear and a high-quality mattress  but small enough to fit into tight spaces.  So you’ll get the best of both worlds without experiencing very many limitations at all. Choose between Ford, Kia, Honda, Dodge, and a multitude of other brands.

Here’s a handful of takeaways from this post:

• Even if discontinued, every minivan on the list is ideal for camping.
• Remember that minivans are only suitable for camping with one to two people.
• Keep an eye out for hidden storage options, such as above the wheel well and below the rear entrance.
• Don’t forget to take advantage of roof racks and flat areas for extra equipment.
• Tires should be one of the first components that you analyze for off-road trips.

Van Camping vs. Tent Camping: What Is Better For You?

The 8 best vans you can camp in.

Hi, we're Cindy and Don. We enjoy being outdoors, exploring new places, and living life to the fullest. When we started this site, our goal was to share with you what we have learned about van camping and camping in general. So whether you are a beginner or already an experienced camper, we hope you will find the information on this site helpful. Van Camping Life is owned and operated by Rees Enterprises LLC. Please read our privacy policy and terms and conditions for more information. Learn more about Van Camping Life and us here .

Recent Posts

Van Life Guide for Beginners: Traveling Around the United States in a Campervan

Written By Bastian Graf

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we have you covered. We’ve put together a full guide covering do’s and don’ts, great tips, and expert recommendations for traveling around the United States by road.

Download the full guide here

The best way to see North America is on a road trip. Whether you’re planning a road trip and plan to rent a campervan or RV or you’re considering becoming a full-time van lifer, we...

Here’s what you can find in this Guide:

1. Best Campervan Rentals

• Campervans or Conversion Vans

2. Tips for Campervan Travel 

Plan Out Your Route

Be prepared on the road, must-have travel apps.

• Campervan/Minivan Maintenance

Campervanning = Minimalism so Pack Smart

3. Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on Your Campervan Trip

4. Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips To Consider

5. Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the US

6. Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Take Selfies

Go Stargazing

• Watch the Sunsets

Best Campervan Rentals

Fridge vs. no fridge – lots of space vs. not so much space – proper campervan vs. minivan … decisions decisions decisions.

Renting a car or campervan for the first time can be pretty daunting, and with so many options out there, it can be hard to decide on what’s the best van is for you. Read on for top tips and expert advice on how to find the right vehicle for you.

Here are a few questions you should ask yourself.

• What am I most comfortable driving?
• How many people are in my group?
• What is my overall budget for this road trip?
• Do I prefer to sleep in a vehicle or a tent?

Answering those simple questions will help you to decide between renting a campervan or minivan.

Minivan Rentals

These dependable vehicles are cheap, reliable, and, most importantly, easy to pick up all over the country. We recommend minivans for:

• Travelers who are happy to fold down the seats and throw a mattress in the back of the van.  Packing a tent is also an option.
• Travelers on a budget – minivans are cheaper vehicles to run than campervans or RVs .
• Groups of people who are traveling together (this is a great way to save on the cost of fuel)
• People who are planning to mix it up between camping and staying in hotels .

Campervan Rentals

The perfect vehicle for groups of two who are planning on living on the road, experiencing the van life, for the length of their road trip.

We recommend campervans for:

• People who have a bigger budget to spend on a vehicle
• Travelers who prefer their home comforts such as the fridge, kitchen sink, and gas stove.
• Travelers who are planning on sleeping in their vehicle every night, and are looking for a little more room.
• Travelers who are considering van living as a lifestyle

*Bonus – Some campervans have solar panels!  Having solar panels means you have less of a need to stay at a powered campsite to recharge the batteries for your fridge & lights!

Still not sure what vehicle to rent? Check out our articles  6 Reasons to Rent a Minivan for your Next Road Trip and  6 Reasons Renting a Campervan is the Best Way to Travel the USA .

Tips for Campervan Travel

Traveling around in a campervan is a brand new experience to many people, so we thought we’d put together some tips to ensure that your trip around the USA with Travelers Autobarn is the ultimate, stress-free road trip!

The United States is vast, and you won’t be the first road tripper to look at Google Maps and underestimate how long it will take you to drive from one place to another. But, while you still want to keep some degree of spontaneity in your trip, it’s ideal to have a rough idea of where you want to travel to, the route you want to take, and how long it will take you to get there. If you are going through larger cities, try to avoid rush hour traffic, or you may get delayed for hours.

Have a rough plan of where you want to go, your must-see sites, and where you plan to stay each night will help you stay on budget, be more relaxed, and have a more enjoyable trip. Bring a map of the United States too!  You never know when you may hit a stretch of highway without services, so be prepared!

*Bonus – when you rent a campervan RV or minivan from Travellers Autobarn USA, all of our vehicles come with FREE UNLIMITED MILES ! So even if you detour from your original plan, we have you covered!

Food & Water

The hotter it is, the more water you need.  You don’t want to get stuck in Death Valley National Park without water!

It’s also crucial that you pack some non-perishable food to keep you going should you break down – think cereal bars, nuts, and dried fruit. Try to avoid snacking on salty snacks – it’s just going to make you even thirstier and could speed up dehydration.

Weather – Know the forecast!

Knowing the weather forecast is extremely important!  Depending on the time of year and what parts of the country you plan to campervan through, Mother Nature may have a different plan for your road trip.  Winter months can bring on harsh temperatures, slippery roads, high winds, and road closures. Knowing ahead of time can save you from having to turn around or from being stuck in a stressful situation.

In some parts of the United States, you will need to be aware of hurricane season and pay attention to tornado warnings.  The Weather Channel app is a great way to check the forecasts before you set off on the open road each day.

Our flexible drop-offs and unlimited miles are extra helpful in these situations. Don’t be in a rush!

*Bonus – For more tips on winter travel, check out our Van Life Guide to Winter Road Trips in a Campervan .

Avoid unsealed roads

Although many of the highways and roads in the United States are in good condition, you may end up on a gravel or dirt road.

If you have rented a campervan or car from one of the big cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or San Francisco (to name a few), then you might find that the insurance policy you took out does not cover you when you are driving on unsealed or unpaved roads. Make sure you read the small print.

When you’re driving, be aware that collisions with these animals are frequent, as well as cows and other animals, particularly at nighttime, dawn, or dusk. If you are pulling a night shift at the wheel, then try to ensure that the passenger next to you stays awake and alert to help you watch out for any animals on the road.

And please don’t try and take a selfie with or pet the wild animals!  Not only is it against the law in certain parts of the country, but it is dangerous and could result in serious injuries or even death.

Boondocking – Dry Camping – Wild Camping

Solar panels come in very handy when you need to dry camp.  If you are running out of steam and need to pull over in the middle of the night, or you can’t find a campground for the night, make sure you are in an area that allows the campervan to be parked.  If you are in or near a larger city, it should be reasonably easy to find a Walmart, gas station, or truck stop that will allow you to use the parking lot for the night. Make sure it is 24-hours in the event you need to use the bathroom facilities.  If you are in the middle of nowhere, make sure you don’t park on private property or where there is a “no trespassing” sign.

GasBuddy – An excellent app for travelers on a budget!  Gasbuddy helps locate the cheapest gas near you so you can compare prices and save.  They have a rewards program that allows you to earn points towards free gas, as well.

Google Maps or Waze – Real-time GPS apps with live traffic alerts. Both apps are popular, so it comes down to preference.

The Weather Channel – The Weather Channel app has a free version and is great for current and extended forecasts across the United States. If you are heading to a new location, make sure and double-check the weather forecast.  You may need to change your route, stop and restock your water supply, or give yourself additional time due to slippery roads.

First Aid: American Red Cross – The First Aid app is a must!  We hope you never need it, but in the event, you have a first aid emergency or need to prepare for a weather emergency, the content is preloaded, so you have access to safety tips, step by step instructions, videos, and access to 911 no matter your location.  And it’s free!

HipCamp – Hipcamp is an awesome app for finding and booking campsites, RV parks, and more.

Campervan or Minivan Maintenance

Remember that you are responsible for the campervan while it is in your possession. You should treat it like it is your vehicle and carry out basic maintenance checks every 300-500 miles. Basic maintenance includes checking things like tire pressure, and oil, washer fluid, and coolant levels.

If you’re driving a campervan, then make sure you know the height of the vehicle and be wary of driving into parking garages, under bridges, or low hanging branches if you aren’t sure.

Forest fires and brushfires are unfortunately very common in parts of the United States.  They can be dangerous – so always make sure you adhere to the guidelines.

We recommend that you visit the check the fire danger rating in the area and make sure campfires are permitted where you are staying (particularly in summer).

If you start a campfire, then you must always make sure it is entirely out at the end of the night and have at least 10 liters of water nearby in case it gets out of hand.

Just because you are camping doesn’t mean you have to stick to cups of noodles, hot dogs, or cans of beans.  Get creative and meal prep before you head out on the open road. Here are a few prep tips for cooking in a campervan.

• Cut up your chicken, beef, or pork and toss them in the seasoning or sauces before you pack up.  Not only does this help with cleanup in the campervan, but it also saves space. If you season the meat ahead of time, then you don’t have to pack spices or bottles of sauce, and the meat will be full of flavor! You can even go one step further and cook the meat ahead of time.
• Wash, cut, and put your fruits and veggies in a gallon bag.   Again, this saves time and space on the road and makes it easier for snacks if you are traveling with kids.
• Pack Reynolds Wrap and grilling bags. These are great for preparing meals over the campfire.  Toss in your preseasoned steak strips, potatoes, veggies and add a little water, seal or wrap it up tight and throw it on the fire. Quick cleanup, easy to throw together and delicious!  Foil is also great for cooking breakfast burritos, shrimp boils, teriyaki chicken with peppers and pineapple, fish, and Banana S’Mores, to name a few.
• Precook a few pounds of ground beef! Ground beef is very versatile.  You can throw together some tacos, taco salads or nachos, add to some pasta sauce for a quick spaghetti, or use it for breakfast burritos or hobo packets in the morning. If you aren’t a red meat eater, then chop up some sausage or ground turkey, or mushrooms if you are vegetarian/vegan.

It’s no secret that traveling in a campervan comes with less storage and smaller space than a motorhome.  Dollar stores are a great place to find travel-size toiletries for your road trip, and it’s easier on the budget.

Another great packing tip is to save condiments from fast-food restaurants.  If you know you are going on a campervan road trip, plan to keep any extra condiments from eating out.  Ketchup, mustard, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper packets take up a lot less space than full-size bottles and don’t require refrigeration.  This not only saves space for additional packing items but doesn’t take up space in the campervan fridge.

Budget Travel Tips to Save Money on your Campervan Trip

One of your biggest outgoings is going to be the cost of your fuel. As we mentioned earlier, one of the best apps we recommend is GasBuddy. It’s convenient for finding the cheapest gas prices in your area. Having an app like GasBuddy or Waze can assist you in not only finding a gas station nearby but also which station has the lowest fuel prices.

*Pro-tip: Having the A/C on all the time will eat into your fuel tank – so if you’re trying to save some money settle for opening the windows instead.

Hit a supermarket with a grocery list in hand!

Once you have rented your campervan, you will likely be departing from one major city, so we recommend that before you hit the road, you stop by a supermarket to stock up on all the essentials (and we don’t just mean beers and sausages for the barbie!).  Have a list! We all know that we spend more money in the grocery store without a list frequently buying food or supplies we don’t need and forgetting items we do.

Buying food and supplies from gas stations and small local stores on the journey can hit your traveling budget hard.

National Parks Pass

If you plan on visiting more than 3 National Parks, then we highly recommend you invest in an annual America the Beautiful pass ! The cost is $80 and gives access to over 2,000 National Parks and National Refuges.  Typically each park has around a $35 entrance fee, so an America the Beautiful pass is an excellent deal for travelers planning National Park Road Trips . If you are 62 and older, they have an annual Senior Pass that is significantly cheaper.  If you are a current, or veteran, member of the US military or if you are a US citizen or permanent resident with permanent disabilities then you are eligible for a free pass.*

*Please confirm prices and terms have not changed for these passes at NPS.gov .

Campervan Travel Guide – Road Trips to Consider

Ultimate National Parks Campervan Road Trip   – One of our top recommendations that you can enjoy in both summer and winter !

West Coast Campervan Road Trips – Los Angeles to Big Sur , LA to San Fran , or Los Angeles to Seattle

The Narrows Hike – Ultimate Zion Campervan Getaway – Zion National Park features some of the most incredible hikes in the United States.

Ultimate Rock Climbing Campervan Road Trip – Not for the novice!  But if you love rock climbing, then this itinerary is a must!

San Francisco to Denver and back – You won’t regret this roundtrip campervan adventure!  Our itinerary takes you through some of the most famous places in the western United States.

Best Campsites or RV Parks to Visit in the USA

The United States has so many amazing places to visit . Traveling around in a campervan lets you see the most popular destinations, plus all of the beauty in between. You’ve decided which campervan is best for your road trip, you know all of the tips and best travel apps, we’ve given you a few road trip itineraries to consider, so now all that is left is where to stay.

The US is full of campgrounds and RV parks with a variety of amenities. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may want to look for free campgrounds along the way.  Just be prepared, many of the free campsites come with no facilities or amenities so you will need to plan accordingly.  Some of these sites are within the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), in parking lots of larger retailers like Costo, Walmart, and Cabelas, and truck stops and rest areas.  Make sure and do your research so that you don’t get ticketed.

Here are 5 of our favorite RV Parks to visit:

• North Pines Campground, Yosemite National Park, California
• Glacier Campground, Glacier National Park, Montana
• Zion River Resort, Zion National Park, Utah
• Mesquite Spring, Death Valley National Park, California
•  Paradise on the River, outside Estes Park and Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

Bonus: If you are planning a road trip out of Las Vegas or California, check out our  Best Campervan Campgrounds Near Las Vegas  and  Best Places to Campervan in California.

Van Life Tips – Best Places to…?

Whether it is the Grand Canyon in Arizona, inside of a gigantic tree in Redwood National and State Parks, overlooking the Pacific ocean with the Golden Gate Bridge in the distance, or hiking the Narrows in Zion National Park, we know travel selfies are a must! Here are our top 5 selfie spots.

• Antelope Canyon in Arizona – We already mentioned places like the Grand Canyon & Zion above, but add Antelope Canyon to your list. It is particularly incredible and something everyone should experience.
• Glacier National Park, Montana – Lake McDonald, Grinnel Glacier, Going to the Sun Road – GNP should be on everyone’s bucket list!
• Redwood National & State Parks, California – The enormous redwood trees are not only a site to see but are fantastic backdrops for the avid selfie-taker.
• San Francisco , California – Hawk Hill is a great spot to take a selfie with the Golden Gate Bridge and the city in the distance.
• Las Vegas, Nevada – There are too many spots to list, but the fountain at the Bellagio Hotel is a great place to start.

Pro tip: Any US National Park is a spectacular place for selfies.

Travel outside of the bigger cities, put your phone down, and stargaze into the incredible nighttime sky.

• Arches National Park – Utah Bryce Canyon – Utah
• Death Valley National Park – California (make sure to go during the milder seasons)
• Joshua Tree National Park – California
• Rocky Mountain National Park – Colorado
• Sedona – Arizona (don’t plan to stargaze during the late summer months.  Early July to late August is monsoon season.)

Watch the Sunset

Who doesn’t love a good sunset? Below are some of our favorite spots to take in some of the most magnificent sunsets in North America.

• Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona – The south rim, in particular, provides not only an exceptional sunset experience but a view of most of the canyon itself.
• California – Pick a place! Los Angeles, Santa Barbara, Big Sur, Joshua Tree National Park.  California is full of beautiful sunsets locations.
• Montana/Wyoming – Glacier National Park , The Grand Tetons or Yellowstone National Park.  The clean mountain air and the sun setting behind the mountains – you can’t go wrong.
• Santa Fe, New Mexico – Old Fort Marcy Park is an incredible experience for those willing to hike.
• Arches National Park, Utah – When the sun sets, it changes the colors in the sandstone arches making a spectacular visual experience and a prime opportunity for incredible photos.

You are all set for traveling around the USA in a campervan, now book your campervan at one of our three US RV rental locations !

Here are a few other guides you might enjoy.

Guide to the Best Campgrounds for Campervans in the USA

Guide to Free Camping in the USA

Visit all our Guides here

Considering traveling overseas?  Check out our other Beginner’s Guides for New Zealand and Australia Campervan Trips.

About the Author

Bastian Graf

Bastian is the Sales & Marketing Manager here at Travellers Autobarn. He holds a Master of Commerce in Marketing and International Business Management, and 20+ years experience in campervan hire, road trips and travel.

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5 Best Minivans for the Money in 2023

Minivans aren't as popular as they once were, but they're still a solid option for families. They offer loads of space, a comfortable ride, strong safety scores and good fuel economy. Which minivan delivers the most for your money?

American Honda Motor Co., Inc. |

These Are the Best Minivans for the Money in 2023

Prices are rising rapidly these days, making car shopping especially frustrating for anyone not wanting to break the bank for a new ride. Minivans aren't as popular as they once were, and they're also more expensive than some other vehicle types, though buyers typically get more tech and safety gear for the money. We've gathered the five best minivans for the money in 2023 to help you get your car shopping journey started on the right foot.

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Our Best Cars for the Money awards look at value, quality and the cost of ownership over five years, so these are the vans that have reasonable starting prices and decent operating costs.

Finally, we update the scores and data on our website frequently, so the information you see here may be more recent there. It's also a good idea to view our new car rankings and reviews to see how these vans stack up against other family haulers, such as three-row SUVs.

More on the 2023 Honda Odyssey

• See 2023 Honda Odyssey Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Honda Odyssey »
• Read the 2023 Honda Odyssey Full Review  »
• See Minivan Rankings  »

Stellantis |

5) 2023 Chrysler Pacifica

$37,020 | 5-year cost of ownership: $70,584.

Value: The Chrysler Pacifica's price tag is in line with the Toyota Sienna and Honda Odyssey, but the Kia Carnival undercuts all of them. Still, the Chrysler's tech, safety and interior features more than justify its price. The Sienna offers a standard hybrid powertrain, which Pacifica buyers have to pay extra for, but Chrysler's tech is more intuitive and easier to use than Toyota's.

More on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica

• See 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica »
• Read the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Full Review  »

2023 Chrysler Pacifica

Overall score: 8.4/10.

Quality: The Pacifica offers a long list of standard features, a nicer-than-it-has-to-be interior and available all-wheel drive. It comes standard with a powerful V6 engine, and the van is an all-weather champ when equipped with optional all-wheel drive. Chrysler includes a 10.1-inch touch screen and its excellent Uconnect 5 infotainment makes interacting with the vehicle a pleasure.

The Pacifica's interior starts off nice in the base model and becomes progressively plusher with higher trim levels and options. The infotainment system is easy to use and feature-rich, Chrysler used good-quality materials where it counts and there's ample space throughout. That said, the entry-level trim does carry more hard plastics than many would like. Optional upgrades make the van even more family-friendly, including a rear-seat entertainment system and a built-in vacuum cleaner.

There's good cargo space in the back, and Chrysler's clever Stow 'n Go rear seats help clear the area for even more storage and flexibility.

4) 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

$50,495 | 5-year cost of ownership: $60,627.

Value: The Pacifica Hybrid costs more than its gas-only counterpart to start, but the costs of ownership don't add up as quickly over time thanks to its excellent fuel economy. It returns an EPA-estimated 82 MPGe in hybrid mode and 30 mpg with the gas powertrain. It's also capable of a 32-mile electric-only range.

More on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

• See 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid »
• Read the 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid Full Review  »

2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

Overall score: 8.6/10.

Quality: Its plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers 260 horsepower and good acceleration. Though the gas Pacifica is available with all-wheel drive, the Hybrid is front-drive only.

Though it's not from a premium brand, the Pacifica Hybrid's cabin feels nicer and more expensive than it needs to, though lower trims do feature plenty of cheap plastics and low-rent materials. There's good space across all three rows, and the Pacifica Hybrid features hands-free sliding doors for easy entry and exit.

That said, the Pacifica Hybrid misses on reliability, and its under-floor battery pack means that there's no Stow 'n Go seating in the hybrid model. Even so, cargo space is on par with the rest of the class, and the third-row folds flat when extra space is needed.

Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. |

3) 2023 Toyota Sienna

$36,135 | 5-year cost of ownership: $58,511.

Value: The Toyota Sienna's hybrid-only powertrain delivers solid fuel economy and decent acceleration. Additionally, the van is packed with family-friendly features and space. The Sienna offers an EPA-estimated 36 mpg, which is fantastic for a vehicle of its size.

More on the 2023 Toyota Sienna

• See 2023 Toyota Sienna Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Toyota Sienna »
• Read the 2023 Toyota Sienna Full Review  »

2023 Toyota Sienna

Overall score: 8.0/10.

Quality: The Sienna is adequately upscale and features a strong list of standard features. Its cabin is handsomely designed and offers decent materials throughout. Toyota offers two seating configurations with seven- or eight-passenger layouts available. Interior materials feel nice and the cabin is well-built. The standard synthetic leather is soft and remains comfortable on long trips, and higher trims add nice leather with heating and ventilation. Seating space is good, and adults can ride comfortably in all three rows.

Toyota doesn't offer the flexible seating options that Chrysler does, but the Sienna is above average in cargo space, with up to 101 cubic feet. The seats do limit the size of cargo that can be loaded, however, and some rivals can hold larger items.

Available all-wheel drive makes the Sienna one of just two minivans that offer the feature, and Toyota's tech is much-improved over earlier iterations. Though it's still not as forward-looking as some rivals' infotainment, Toyota's is easier to use than before and offers solid features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto running on a crisp 9-inch touchscreen.

Kia Motors America |

2) 2023 Kia Carnival

$33,100 | 5-year cost of ownership: $60,824.

Value: Kia updated its minivan and changed the name a few years back, and the resulting vehicle is one of the best in its class. The Carnival offers a gorgeously designed cabin with high-quality materials and plenty of space. Kia packed in plenty of great features, and top trims get high-end features like quilted leather and second-row VIP seats with power footrests.

Kia priced the Carnival reasonably and includes several features in the base price. The van brings a suite of advance safety features and gets a full bench of entertainment tech. The base 8-inch screen brings Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Kia offers a larger 12.3-inch display.

More on the 2023 Kia Carnival

• See 2023 Kia Carnival Photos  »
• Find the best price on the 2023 Kia Carnival »
• Read the 2023 Kia Carnival Full Review  »

2023 Kia Carnival

Quality: The Carnival does a great impression of a premium-branded minivan, and it feels solidly built from every seat in the house. Cloth upholstery comes standard, but Kia offers synthetic or genuine leather that up the luxury feel. There's good passenger space, and it's easy to install child safety seats.

Kia was generous with cargo room in the Carnival, too, and the van has 40.2 cubic feet behind the third row. With the back seat folded, the space reaches 86.9 cubic feet, and with the second- and third-row seats folded flat, the Carnival delivers a massive 145.1 cubic feet of cargo capacity.

1) 2023 Honda Odyssey

$37,490 | 5-year cost of ownership: $64,231.

Value: Honda has long been a leader in the minivan space with loads of clever features and family-friendly design that makes using the Odyssey enjoyable with plenty of people in tow. It offers great predicted reliability and can be outfitted with several options, including an in-cabin vacuum system.

2023 Honda Odyssey

Overall score: 9.0/10.

Quality: Honda's practical cabin design pays dividends in the Odyssey with useful features, nice materials and spacious accommodations. The second-row seats slide and fold and can be removed completely, giving the van a more flexible cargo space than many competitors. Higher trims add nice leather upholstery, and Honda offers heated and ventilated seats. Regardless of the trim, the Odyssey is comfortable and roomy, fulfilling its mission as a minivan more completely than the others.

Honda's easy-to-use infotainment runs well on the standard 8-inch display, but there are no screen upgrades available.In addition to entertainment features, the optional in-cabin camera and microphone systems make the Odyssey much more livable day-to-day with kids or multiple passengers.

Standard tech is solid, and the van is equipped with a good amount of advanced safety features, including blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alerts and automatic emergency braking, forward collision warnings and more.

U.S. News & World Report |

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Did any of these top-rated minivans get you excited for summer road trip season? When you're ready, check out our new car deals page to get an idea of what you might actually pay for one of our Best Minivans for the Money.

To see our other best cars for the money, peruse our 2023 Best Cars for the Money slideshow.

When you’re ready to move forward, be sure to use our U.S. News Best Price Program to find the dealer in your area offering the best pre-negotiated prices. Shoppers who use the program to buy or lease a new car save an average of over $3,200 off the sticker price. The program not only makes it easy to connect with the best local dealers, but also provides online options and home delivery.

• 2023 Chrysler Pacifica: Overall Score: 8.4/10
• 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid: Overall Score: 8.6/10
• 2023 Toyota Sienna: Overall Score: 8.0/10
• 2023 Kia Carnival (Finalist): Overall Score: 8.6/10
• 2023 Honda Odyssey (Winner): Overall Score: 9.0/10

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10 Campers You Can Pull With a Minivan

Minivans are some of the most versatile vehicles on the road today, thanks to their large open interior, ample seating, and lower van floor, making them great for hauling people as well as cargo.

But can a minivan tow a camper ?

Most newer minivans today have a towing capacity between 3,000 and 3,600 pounds, depending on the make, model, and year, making it possible for a minivan to tow a small teardrop or stand-up camper.  

If you have an older minivan, however, it’s important to check the owner’s manual for its specific towing capacity, as older minivans will often have a lower towing capacity compared to newer ones.  

But if you’re curious about what campers a minivan can pull, keep reading.

As we provide 10 awesome campers that a minivan can tow.  

10 Awesome Campers You Can Tow With a Minivan

There are actually quite a few small campers and teardrop trailers on the market today, light enough to be towed by a minivan.

As most small campers under 18 feet in length will usually have a dry weight starting at around 1,200 pounds and top out under 3,000 pounds.  

For more information on how much a small travel trailer weighs, check out our article “ How Much Do Small Travel Trailers Weigh? “.

But these 10 small campers are some of our favorites and ones you should definitely check out if you’re looking for a camper that you can tow with a minivan.  

1. Timberleaf Pika

Skip to the 7:00 minute mark for a walkthrough of the Timberleaf Pika

Quick Specs

• Price :  $13,200
• Dry Weight :  970 Pounds 
• Length :  12 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity :  2

The Timberleaf Pika is the lightest teardrop trailer on this list by more than 200 pounds, with a dry weight of only 970 pounds.

Making the Timberleaf Pika super easy to pull behind a minivan.  

This compact and lightweight teardrop camper is also great for boondocking and outdoor adventures thanks to its available off-road package which equips the camper with Timbren axleless 3,500 independent suspension, 4-inch lift, electric drum brakes, BFGoodwrench KO2 tires, oversized fenders, front corner rock sliders, and Max-Coupler articulating hitch.

In addition, this rugged teardrop trailer has LED lighting throughout, a basic rear kitchen for meal prep while camping, and space for two campers to sleep comfortably.

For information on the Timberleaf Pika, check out Timberleaf’s website by clicking here .   

2. Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12RK

• Price :  $12,000
• Dry Weight :  1,252 Pounds 
• Length :  11 Feet 3 Inches

The lightest Camper on this list that just about any minivan could pull is the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12RK, which is a teardrop trailer that has a dry weight of only 1,252 pounds and a gross vehicle weight rating of 1,953 pounds. 

While this small camper from Forest River is not completely self-contained, as it lacks a bathroom.

This little teardrop trailer is perfect for the RVer that wants a super lightweight and simple RV to take camping.  

Because while this little camper doesn’t have a bathroom, it does have just about everything else you could want including a comfortable place to sleep, a rear outdoor kitchen with running water, a fridge, and a microwave, onboard electricity with 110 outlets and USB ports for charging, as well as a heater and a roof-mounted AC.  

For more information on the Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12RK, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .  

3. nuCamp TAG

• Price :  $17,000
• Dry Weight :  1,284 Pounds 
• Length :  13 Feet 7 Inches

The NuCamp TAG is the perfect teardrop trailer to tow with a minivan if you’re a camper that wants a small and lightweight boondocking travel trailer, that can pretty much go anywhere.  

As this little camper has everything you would need for an extended boondocking or dry camping adventure including a rear outdoor kitchen with running water and sink, a large battery bank with optional solar to keep all your electrical devices charged, and a heater with a wireless thermostat for those colder nights. 

But perhaps our favorite feature of this little teardrop trailer is the star-gazing window, which lets you view the stairs even when you’re inside the trailer.  

And if you opt for the Boondock Package you can take your nuCamp TAG even further into the wilderness, as it provides aggressive off-road tires, a heavy-duty pitched axle, included solar package, and a roof rack.  

For more information on the nuCamp TAG, check out NuCamp’s website by clicking here .  

4. nuCamp Tab S Teardrop Camper

• Price :  $28,000
• Dry Weight :  1,969 Pounds 
• Length :  15 Feet 3 Inches

When you’re ready to move beyond small teardrop trailers and want something you can actually stand up in, then you definitely need to check out the Tab S Teardrop Camper by nuCamp.

As this little camper from nuCamp not only lets you stand up inside the trailer but is also one of the lightest self-contained travel trailers on the market today, with a dry weight of only 1,969 pounds and a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,900 pounds.  

And thanks to the fact that this travel trailer is completely self-contained, it has everything you would need for a quick weekend getaway including a small wet bath with cassette toilet, a small kitchenette, as well as a large seating area with a table that converts into a queen bed.  

For more information on the nuCamp Tab S Teardrop Trailer, check out NuCamp’s website by clicking here .  

To see other teardrop campers you can stand up in, check out our article “ 10 Must-See Teardrop Trailers You Can Stand Up In “.

5. Scamp 16 Standard Trailer (w/ Bathroom)

• Price :  $17,000 – $25,000
• Dry Weight :  2,000 Pounds 
• Length :  16 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity :  2 to 4 (Depending on Floorplan)

Two of my personal favorites when it comes to small travel trailers are the 13-foot Scamp trailer and the 16-foot Scamp trailer because of how lightweight and simple they are.  

As the 16-foot Scamp trailer only has a dry weight of 2,000 pounds, making it more than possible to tow this camper with a minivan.  

This small camper from Scamp is also available in 5 different floorplans with tons of options to choose from, allowing you to design your Scamp trailer to perfectly fit your preferred camping style.  

And this is because Scamp trailers are built to order directly from the Scamp factory.

But one of the downsides of this factory direct approach is that you typically have to wait 6 months or longer before you can take delivery of your Scamp.  

For more information on the Scamp 16 Trailer and to see the available floorplans, check out Scamp’s website by clicking here .  

6. KZ RV Sportsmen Classic 130RB

• Price :  $13,000
• Dry Weight :  2,190 Pounds 
• Sleeping Capacity :  3

Another awesome camper that can easily be pulled by a minivan is the KZ RV Sportsman Classic 130RB, which has a dry weight of 2,190 pounds and a gross vehicle weight rating of 2,800 pounds.  

And thanks to its affordable price, this travel trailer is also a great option for any RVer shopping on a budget.  

In addition, while it doesn’t have a full three-piece dry bath, it does have a two-piece dry bath, which is pretty good for a trailer of this size, as they usually have wet baths.  

There’s also plenty of seating in this small camper, thanks to the large convertible dinette booth and sofa.  

For more information on the KZ RV Sportsman Classic 130RB, check out KZ RV’s website by clicking here .  

7. Casita Spirit Deluxe

• Price :  Starting at $25,694
• Dry Weight :  2,480 Pounds 
• Length :  17 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity :  4

A camper that has a very similar look and feel as well as weight compared to the Scamp 16 is the Casita Spirit, which is available in both a standard and a deluxe version.  

But if you want a bathroom, then you need to go with the deluxe version.

As the Standard 17-foot Casita Spirit doesn’t come with a bathroom.

The standard version does, however, have a higher sleeping capacity compared to the deluxe version due to its additional bunk beds.

In addition, like Scamp trailers, Casita trailers are built to order and must be ordered directly from the manufacturer, as you can’t buy a Casita travel trailer on an RV lot like you can with most other RV brands.  

For more information on the Casita Spirit Deluxe, check out the Casita website by clicking here .  

8. Riverside Retro 135

• Price :  $14,000
• Dry Weight :  2,540 Pounds 

Perhaps one of the most unique travel trailers on this list that can be pulled by a minivan is the Riverside Retro 135 because of its unique retro look and vibe.

As both the interior as well as the exterior of this small lightweight camper looks like it stepped right out of the 1950s.

But it’s not just the retro look of this camper that makes it great, as it’s also are very well-equipped trailer with a large permanent queen bed, a comfortable sofa, a small kitchenette, as well as a 2-piece dry bath.

And the reason why Riverside was able to cram so much into this compact retro camper is due to its rear door configuration, which allows full use of both sidewalls of this trailer for amenities and features.  

To find out more about the Riverside Retro 135, check out Riverside’s website by clicking here .  

9. Lance 1475

• Price :  $50,000
• Dry Weight :  2,600 Pounds 
• Length :  20 Feet
• Sleeping Capacity :  2 or 3 (Depending on Floorplan)

While the Lance 1475 is one of the most expensive campers on this list that’s capable of being towed by a minivan, it’s also the only camper on this list with 4 season capability.

As the Lance 1475 has an optional 4 Season All-Weather Package, which allows you to camp year-round in this small camper, thanks to its enclosed underbelly, advanced ducting, enclosed and insulated holding tanks, and dual pane windows.   

In addition, this trailer from Lance is the first and only trailer on this list that has a full three-piece dry bath, which includes a standup shower, toilet, and dedicated bathroom sink. 

Lance also made a departure from the standard dinette booth found in most RVs on this trailer, by allowing you to choose between either two large comfy swivel chairs with a small center table or a large couch with two separate smaller swivel tables.

For more information on the Lance 1475, check out Lance’s website by clicking here .  

10. Forest River E-Pro E15TB

• Price :  $20,000
• Dry Weight :  2,608 Pounds 
• Length :  15 Feet 10 Inches

Another well-equipped small camper that can be pulled by a minivan is the Forest River E-Pro E15TB which has a dry weight of 2,608 pounds and an overall length of 15 feet 10 inches.  

The nice thing about this travel trailer is that instead of the more common large convertible dinette found in most small campers, the E-Pro E15TB has two twin beds with a free-standing table in the middle.

Which allows you to switch from daytime mode to nighttime mode and vice versa much easier.

In addition, this loaded-up small camper from Forest River also comes with a standard 100-watt solar package instead of it being an option.

For more information on the Forest River E-Pro E15TB, check out Forest River’s website by clicking here .  

Which Minivan is Best for Towing?

With the exception of the Ford Transit Connect, which only has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds, most newer minivans today have a towing capacity between 3,000 and 3,600 pounds.

This means that any of the popular minivans today, including the Honda Odyssey, the Toyota Sienna, the Dodge Caravan, and the Chrysler Pacifica are good vehicles for towing light to medium-sized loads, as they are all equally well equipped for towing .  

With the exception of perhaps the Ford Transit Connect, due to its limited towing capacity.  

To see how much each popular minivan can tow check out the below list, which provides the towing capacity for every popular minivan on the road today.  

Popular 2021 Minivan Towing Capacities

• Honda Odyssey – 3,500 Pound Towing Capacity
• Toyota Sienna – 3,500 Pound Towing Capacity
• Dodge Caravan – 3,600 Pound Towing Capacity]
• Dodge Grand Caravan – 3,600 Pound Towing Capacity
• Kia Sedona – 3,500 Pound Towing Capacity
• Chrysler Pacifica – 3,600 Pound Towing Capacity
• Chrysler Voyager – 3,600 Pound Towing Capacity
• Ford Transit Connect – 2,000 Pound Towing Capacity

Can a Minivan Tow 5,000 Pounds?

Most newer minivans on the road today typically have a towing capacity between 3,000 and 3,600 pounds depending on the make, model, and year of the minivan.

This means that a minivan cannot tow 5,000 pounds, as this would greatly exceed the minivan’s max towing capacity.  

What Camper Can a Honda Odyssey Pull?

The new Honda Odyssey has a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, allowing it to tow a wide variety of small teardrop and stand-up campers.  

Below is a partial list of campers that a new Honda Odyssey can pull.  

• Little Guy Trailers MyPod – 760 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Scamp 13 Standard Trailer (w/o Bathroom) – 1,200 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Forest River Rockwood Geo Pro G12RK – 1,252 Pound (Dry Weight)
• nuCamp RV TAG – 1,284 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Jayco Jay Feather Micro 12SRK – 1,585 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• inTech RV Flyer Pursue – 1,595 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Aliner Ascape Plus – 1,630 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• nuCamp Tab S Tear Drop Camper – 1,969 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Scamp 16 Standard Trailer (w/ Bathroom) – 2,000 Pounds (Dry Weight)

Can a Dodge Caravan Pull a Camper?

The new Dodge Caravan and Dodge Grand Caravan both have a towing capacity of 3,600 pounds, making it possible to pull a small teardrop or stand-up camper with the minivan.

Below is a partial list of some popular travel trailers that a new Dodge Caravan can tow.

• Timberleaf Pika – 970 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• Happy Camper HC1 – 1,100 Pounds (Dry Weight)
• TAXA Outdoors TigerMoth – 1,310 Pounds (Dry Weight)

To see campers that an SUV can tow and learn how SUV towing capacity compares to minivan towing capacity, check out our article “ 18 Must-See Campers You Can Pull with an SUV “.

Jason is an avid lover of RVs and the RV lifestyle. He is both a writer and editor for RV Owner HQ and has been RVing and camping for over 20 years.

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I rented a Maverick for 35 days, and it was the greatest experience. All of the staff at the Denver office are very professional, friendly, and helpful. I highly recommend using Escape for your next travel adventure. ... Read More

Brianna Dowell-Howko

Had an incredible time in our escape campervan. It has been the stand out p art of our trip of the US, offering flexibility, fun and something different. I was wary of driving the van as I am used to driving a much smaller vehicle on the other side of road! But Emmanuel at the San Fransisco branch was so friendly and took plenty of time to talk through the van and its features, put us at ease and encourage us to have some great adventures. Pick up and drop off were smooth with no issues regarding trying to get money out of us etc. Like the idea of the swap cupboard for people to leave leftover food and toiletries. Vans are pretty old and show some signs of wear but fully functioning and we had no issues while on the road. Cant wait till we can do this again! ... Read More

Would rent again! My husband and I picked up in Las Vegas and did a week lo ng trip throughout Utah in one of the Mavericks. The Maverick vans are old and we had some small issues with the van throughout the trip, but the Las Vegas team was responsive and took care of us when we got back. When we rent again we'll splurge for one of the newer vehicles. ... Read More

Hannah Thomson

Used an Escape Camper van (maverick) for my honeymoon. We had such a great time and the people that rent them out are awesome! Definitely will be using these again while traveling, it's an unbeatable deal - rental vehicle and lodging all in one! ... Read More

We had our Escape Campervan for 10 wonderful days. In that time we were ab le to travel to and see so much that we otherwise wouldn't have been able to see or do. The campervan was definitely the way to go. It was absolutely perfect!! I would highly recommend it to everyone. ... Read More

Leslie Mazer

loved everything about Escape. Van and all the extras were perfect. Staff w as so kind and customer service top notch. Will definitely use Escape again! ... Read More

Grace Howell

Great experience! We rented the Maverick for a few days and everything was smooth from check in to check out. Shout out to Darren for the great customer experience, and going over everything in great depth. Couldn't recommend escape camper vans enough ✌️ ... Read More

Amelia Powell

Great place to rent a van, staff very helpful and competent, van was in exc ellent condition. Would definitely rent here again! ... Read More

Suzanne Hawley

Escape Campervans made our trip around Arizona the best it could be. Simple pickup, great addons, and the support was top-notch. They accidentally forgot our kitchen and bedding, but we’re responsive and helped resolve the issue. Overall, an amazing experience and I recommend anyone who wants to travel out of a van for a trip to consider Escape. ... Read More

Thankyou to Aaron and escape campervans for the trip of a lifetime! We made such special memories and the company was great! Everything was set and ready to go for us and the van was beautiful! Very new on the inside and coolest paint job! Already planning to rent from these guys again next summer!! If you are looking to go on a road trip soon seriously consider going through these guys! Can’t recommend them enough! ... Read More

(Translated by Google) We had a great time. The staff are very VERY friendl y and explain everything in detail. The van was great, the bed in the van very comfortable and very easy to set up. The small kitchen in the back had everything you need (fridge, cooker, sink) you can book the cooking set, but I have no idea what it contains because we didn't book it. The curtains in the van darken the interior very well for sleeping. We really enjoyed the time and would definitely do it again. But then for a longer period of time. (Original) Wir hatten eine tolle Zeit. Die Mitarbeiter sind sehr SEHR freundlich und erklären alles ausführlich. Der van war toll, das Bett im van sehr gemütlich und sehr einfach aufzubauen. Die kleine Küche im hinteren Teil hatte alles was man braucht (Kühlschrank, Kocher, Waschbecken) man kann sich das koch set dazu buchen ich hab aber keine ahnung was es alles enthält da wir es nicht gebucht haben. Die vorhänge im van Dunkeln den Innenraum sehr gut ab zum Schlafen. Wir genossen die Zeit sehr und würden es definitiv nochmal machen. Dann aber für einen längeren Zeitraum. ... Read More

Daniela Richter

Oh my gosh, we had the BEST time with our campervan! I think the layout is just great! Husband and wife. Bed was great. Heads up that the depot is in Oakland, so really not near SFO. We were very fortunate to have friends who picked us up from the "real" airport and took us over to the depot. Important things to bring: whisk broom, cigarette to USB charger, flashlight/lantern, lightweight sleeping bag. Our bedding kit had a comforter. So lovely and snuggy in Yosemite, but too hot for coastal beach areas. I would absolutely ! rent from this company again!! ... Read More

(Translated by Google) We had a great time with our Maverick campervan. Bef ore departure and for questions, always a very fast response from the service center via email, very nice. Great service at Escape Campervans LA, friendly and helpful staff. We had no problems with the campervan. The only drawback was that the battery of the refrigerator was not very strong, so after standing overnight it was empty again and the refrigerator was no longer cold. The solar panel worked well, so no problems during the day or while driving. (Original) We hebben een super tijd met onze Maverick campervan gehad. Voor vertrek en bij vragen altijd een hele snelle respons van het servicecentre via de mail, heel fijn. Goede service bij Escape Campervans LA, vriendelijk en behulpzaam personeel. We hebben geen problemen gehad met de campervan. Het enige nadeel was dat de accu van de koelkast niet erg sterk was, dus na een nacht stilstaan was deze alweer leeg en de koelkast niet meer koud. Het solarpanel werkte wel goed, dus overdag en met rijden geen problemen. ... Read More

Marit Schmidt

I totally loved my little van and had the most wonderful trip! Had a light come up on the dash and the roadside assist team responded immediately which was fabulous (it was thankfully nothing to worry about). Didn't have one problem the whole trip after that and would highly recommend Escape if you are wanting to thoroughly enjoy a US road adventure! ... Read More

Naomi Lacey

What to expect when renting a campervan

11 depot locations in north america.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What make & model are your campervans.

We currently have 5 models in our fleet:

• Big Sur : Ford T-350
• Mavericks : Ford E150
• Santa Cruz : Ford Transit Connect
• Del Mar Pop Top : Ford T-350
• Jeep Camper : Jeep Sahara JL 4 Door

These are among the most economical in North America and are easy to drive and park.

What equipment comes with the campervan?

Escape includes the following free of charge with every campervan rental (varies slightly for our  Santa Cruz ). 

• Convertible bed fit out / “dining room” area with storage space
• Kitchen fit out with sink, refrigerator, and stove ( must purchase propane separately )
• Dual battery system with solar panel

We have bedding sets, kitchen kits, propane, and other Extras available for rent.

Read about our campervan packing tips .

How will I get by without a bathroom in the campervan?

While our Big Sur , Mavericks , and Santa Cruz models don’t have bathrooms, our renters do just fine using campground facilities and public restrooms, and practicing Leave No Trace principles when dispersed camping. It is a matter of your own comfort level, but the freedom that campervan travel gives you compared to RVs is worth it for many!

How many people can travel in the camper with me?

• Big Sur : Seats 5, sleeps up to 5 (2-3 in queen bed, 2 in rooftop sleeper if added).
• Mavericks : Seats 5, sleeps up to 5 (2-3 in queen bed, 2 in rooftop sleeper if added).
• Santa Cruz : Seats and sleeps 2 (1 double bed).
• Jeep Camper :  Seats up to 5 (designed for 2) and sleeps 2 (rooftop sleeper).

Seating is according to how many seat belts are available in each vehicle. You can always add the rooftop sleeper (Big Sur and Mavericks only, standard on Jeep Camper) or bring along our ground tent accessory to sleep more people. Bedding kits are available for rent to accommodate the number of people in your party.

Can I buy the van?

We occasionally sell our more “experienced” campervans—fit out, paint job, and all! Learn more about our used  campervans for sale  listed on our website, or contact  [email protected]  to inquire about buying a campervan. Sign up for our email list or follow us on social media for the most recent updates.

Why Escape Camper Vans

Escape Camper Vans is the largest campervan rental company in North America, with 11 convenient rental locations in the US. We have more than 600 custom-built campervans designed & built in-house, each uniquely hand-painted by top artists in Los Angeles. With New Zealand roots and nearly two decades of experience guiding travelers, we pride ourselves on offering fun, hassle-free adventures for all.

Our campervan rentals are economical and easy to drive, giving you the freedom to get off the beaten path into places that are inaccessible to larger motorhomes and RVs —and no stress driving through the city. No matter where your journey starts or ends, your Escape campervan gives you the comforts of a home on wheels for the best value .

We offer round trip and one-way rentals, so you can pick up locally or fly into your dream destination for a weekend away or an epic cross-country road trip. Each model comes fully-equipped with a bed and kitchen with sink, stove, and refrigerator, and we have kitchen supplies, bedding kits, and other extras available for rent. Just pick up your camper, stock up the refrigerator, and hit the road!

Featured Blog Posts

Campervan cooking, how-to's & resources, road trip campervan packing tips, renter guest posts, dispersed camping 101: free camping in the us, guest blog: 51 van life tips to make the most of your escape, national parks, how do i find where to camp tips from past renters.

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Five reasons we chose a minivan to travel the country

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Today, Matt, from The Resume Gap, recalls why they chose a minivan to call their traveling home.

6 min read · Dec 9, 2020

Good day, beautiful people! Today, I'm coming at you with a guest post, this time from Matt from TheResumeGap.com . These guys travel the country in a minivan camper and have totally mastered the definition of minimalism and proved how awesome and comfortable van life could be.

Thanks for inviting us, Steve. We’re huge fans of Think Save Retire and your Airstream dream!

When Daniel and I quit our jobs a few years ago at the beginning of 2016, we knew we wanted to spend at least a couple years traveling the world, including taking a long road trip around North America. We evaluated the whole spectrum of vehicle options – everything from throwing a tent in the back of a sedan to buying a big RV or trailer. Much to the amusement of our friends and family, we ultimately decided on a minivan camper.

Finally, the soccer-mom lifestyle we’ve always dreamed of!

How do you sleep in a minivan?

Many people ask us this all the time. In order to sleep well in a minivan, we needed to undergo what we call camper conversion. We made a few light modifications to our minivan – taking out the seats leaving only the front seats, throwing an air mattress topped with memory foam in the back, and building some extra storage – then we hit the road in our new and improved camper van. The best thing about air mattresses is that they’re relatively cheap, light weight, and fit perfectly within the minivan in place of the back seat.

We’ve now spent almost six months traveling the U.S. and Canada in our beloved Dodge Caravan, covering 28 states and 3 provinces so far. Van life has been one of the most fun things we’ve ever done.

Here are a few reasons I’d encourage anyone thinking about road-tripping the country to consider a similar minivan camping setup:

Low commitment

When we first decided to take off on this adventure, I had a looming fear: What if we don’t like long-term travel? I had been doing regular work travel for years, and we had both taken shorter road trips, but neither of us had ever spent more than a few weeks at a time away from home.

With no full-time travel experience under our belts, I was hesitant to drop tens of thousands of dollars on a big RV or trailer. What if we decided after just a month that we didn’t want to be on the road full-time? The minivan camper addressed that concern. For the bargain price of less than $2,000 (plus a couple hundred dollars of materials to build additional storage), we had our first rig. If at any time we decided that long-term minivan camping wasn’t for us, we could easily resell the van and be done with it.

That low upfront investment has also given us more flexibility with our travel plans. We parked the van for three months this summer, for example, to travel in Eastern Europe. Because we hadn’t spent a ton of money on a vehicle, we didn’t feel any nagging guilt about sunk costs – and we were able to keep more money invested in the market rather than in depreciating assets.

One of the major things that appealed to us about taking time away from work was the opportunity to simplify our lives – spending more time on the things that matter to us (like traveling and visiting friends and family) and less time on the things that don’t (like household chores and accumulating “stuff”).

Traveling in a smaller vehicle appealed to us because it forced us to be discerning with every item we brought with us. We’re a long way from being the poster children of minimalism, but it’s remarkable how few things you need on the road. When we returned home for the first time after three months of minivan camping, we actually ended up offloading a number of items we thought we would want but didn’t end up using.

Do you have what it takes to be a digital nomad?

Back in April, we met up with some friends at Joshua Tree National Park for a weekend of camping and hiking. While we slept comfortably in a real bed in the well-insulated confines of the van, their small backpacking tent got blown around all night in 40 MPH winds. In below-freezing temperatures, we might normally be shivering in our sleeping bags – but in the van, we can always crank on the heat for a few minutes.

Just like at home, it's easy to get stuck comparing our possessions to what’s newer and nicer. At home, it might be the neighbor’s fancy house or luxury car. On the road, it’s a luxury RV with multiple pop-outs or a tricked-out $100k Sprinter van. But when we remind ourselves of the other alternatives (like wintertime camping in a tent), it’s easy to appreciate that van camping is downright luxurious.

Flexibility

We’re city-dwellers at heart, and we love exploring urban settings just as much as we love hiking through the backcountry. Our van works for both. We’ve driven it down dirt roads in rural Utah and Wyoming with no one around for miles, but we’ve also parallel-parked it everywhere from downtown Toronto to the Chicago Loop to San Francisco’s Mission District. Try doing that with a big trailer. (No offense, Airstreamers!)

If we were planning to live on the road full-time for years, I’d happily consider a larger setup. But for a few months of travel with frequent city stops, the van suits our needs just fine.

Being able to sleep in our vehicle also gives us more lodging options in places where a tent wouldn’t be appropriate, like undeveloped National Forest areas, highway rest stops (where car camping is permitted in many states), or the occasional Walmart parking lot (where we’ve spent a few nights when there weren’t other options).

Operating cost

Our travel budget isn’t exorbitant, so every dollar counts. Cruising the country in a van has been substantially cheaper than many of the alternatives. Gasoline is one of our biggest expenses, so we appreciate the van’s decent fuel economy (around 24 MPG, or 10 L/100km). Insurance cost is minimal, and because the vehicle isn’t worth much, we don’t pay for collision or comprehensive coverage. Depreciation has been minimal, too. In fact, our van’s blue book value has gone up since we bought it!

Keeping those costs low means we’re able to spend more money on things we value, and it means we can travel longer. That’s a trade-off we’ll happily make every time!

Can a Dodge Grand Caravan pull a camper?

Say minimalism isn’t your thing, but you’re still looking to pursue a similar set-up as we did for your next long-term road trip. You can always hook your Dodge Grand Caravan up to a camper as its towing capacity is pretty high. In doing some research, we confirmed that our minivan could tow up to 3600 pounds. So we if wanted to eventually expand our storage capabilities, we could always find a camper that weighed something within the 2500-3000 pound range. That’s the other nice thing about opting for a minivan – you can always scale up or down the amount of things you’d like to take with you on each trip.

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A 24-year-old spent $140,000 buying and converting a Mercedes van. Take a look inside the luxury home on wheels.

• Abbe Minor spent nine months and $140,000 converting a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van.
• Inspired by Mediterranean architecture, the van has plaster walls, handmade tiles, and organic shapes.
• The space isn't just a luxury campervan, Minor told BI. She considers it a work of art.

After years of living in and converting camper vans, Abbe Minor naturally became part of a community of people in San Diego working on similar projects.

One friend was working on a big red van. Another was building a space where every interior detail was orange with a 1980s psychedelic theme.

The 24-year-old told Business Insider that this community offered her a version of "la-la land," a place where boundaries were limitless and challenging the norm was welcomed.

So, she set out to do just that for her most recent van-conversion project. In April 2023, she purchased a bold yellow 2022 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter.

For the next nine months, she designed and built a space that's just as much functional as it is artistic. She used Moroccan plaster to create organic, curved walls, and handmade Spanish tiles line the shower.

The space screams luxury — and so does the price tag. By the end of the conversion, Minor said she spent $140,000 on the build. Today, she values the van at $235,000 .

It's an investment she said she doesn't regret.

"I wanted to learn new skills and create something that scared me," she said. "At the core of all this is art."

This is Minor's fourth conversion since moving into a van in college

In college, Minor and her boyfriend at the time built out their first van and traveled around the country, checking off 46 states.

During that adventure, Minor said she saw firsthand what some people were willing to pay for a camper-van conversion.

Though people can spend a vast range on camper vans, the luxury recreational-vehicle market caters to travelers willing to shell out high prices. In 2020, BI reported that some luxury vans could have price tags of $250,000. Since then, luxury camper-van prices have continued to rise. Redtail Overland released its Skyloft Van earlier this year with a base price of $530,000, Autoevolution reported, and Noovo recently unveiled its latest luxury campervan, the Noovo Plus , which starts at $178,000.

"It made me realize the opportunity that was there," Minor said.

After graduating from college, Minor launched a business converting vans. She'd buy a camper van, spend a few months converting it, sell it, and then live off the profit for the rest of the year.

"I've done one per year and I've really tried to make them boutique and artistic," she said.

For the past few years, Minor has supported herself through van renovations. She's also diversified her revenue streams thanks to social media and a book she's writing on how to renovate vans .

With the first two builds, Minor said her goal was to be strategic with her investment. She kept an eye on trends and focused on efficient conversions so her builds would sell fast. Minor said she made about the average US salary with each sale , so around $60,000.

With her most recent conversion, she tossed her thoughts about money aside. Minor was inspired to challenge both herself and the industry on what a van could look like.

"With this build, I said, 'Screw it,'" she said. "I don't really care what the market wants. I don't care how much money I spend. I'm just going to create something that has never been done before."

Related stories

The first step was purchasing a yellow 2022 Mercedes Sprinter.

The van renovation took 9 months and cost her $140,000

A bright yellow van was the ideal canvas for this project. Not only did it fit Minor's bright personality but it's something "you can't scroll past without being like, 'Whoa,'" she said.

Minor traveled to Pennsylvania to pick up the $66,000 van.

"Driving it home was the best time of my life," she said. "I was just floating, envisioning what I was going to do with it."

Minor then drove to San Diego where she did most of the automobile work. She replaced the van's wheels, tires, and suspension and added a roof rack and ladder. Then she headed to a small island off the coast of Washington where she spent months working from a relative's shed.

Minor said most of her time in the shed was devoted to ideation.

She drew inspiration from Pinterest and AI renderings. She gravitated toward Spanish and Mediterranean styles where "everything flows together and looks like it's coming out of the earth."

The goal was to learn new skills and use new materials for the conversion. For example, Minor used liquid fiberglass — a material that's typically used on the exterior of automobiles — inside her van, which allowed her to create the curved walls throughout the space.

Minor also covered the van's interior walls with Tadelakt, a plaster used in Moroccan architecture. It's a material she said she'd never seen inside a van.

With the help of social media, Minor partnered with brands and installed thousands of dollars worth of free products throughout the space.

The van also has a handful of hidden elements . The benches at the front convert into a second bed and a staircase is home to secret storage.

The entire conversion, including the cost of the van, cost Minor $140,000. She said that certain materials, such as the plaster and Baltic birch plywood used for the cabinetry, were some of the most expensive parts of the build.

The conversion took about nine months to complete, with just enough time to bring it to San Diego's TinyFest, an annual gathering for tiny homes and nomadic living. Minor's van received an award for the best use of space.

Minor said her van isn't just a smart business move — it's a piece of art

Minor knew this van would be a different investment than her other builds. Instead of immediately selling it as she's done in the past, Minor plans to live in the van and create content to capitalize on the conversion.

A bright-yellow van appeals to brands since it stands out. An interior with luxury details lends itself to work with high-end companies. And a space that's visually appealing leads to engagement and interest from viewers around the world.

While $140,000 might be a lot for a conversion, Minor thinks it could be more valuable in the long run.

This investment, along with her upcoming book, means Minor can continue to live the free, independent lifestyle that van life has offered her.

"I know so many van builders and so many companies who have scaled and have focused more on van building from a strictly business perspective," she said. "In which case, it just turns into a regular business that's complicated, that's restricted."

"I wanted to be more of an artist and keep my life as free as it can be," she said.

Minor acknowledges that everything has a price; she's listed the van on her website for $235,000 . In the meantime, she's continuing to tweak and enhance the van as she lives and travels in it.

Reflecting on the build, Minor said her goal was to create something uncommon, something "that was a reflection of myself and who I am."

She said she believes she's done just that.

"It's the best feeling ever when you can create a space that makes someone feel something," she said.

Watch: What it's like to own a $20 million exotic car collection

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The 10 Best Travel Vans for Traveling with a Dog

They say home is where the heart is – but anyone with a four-legged best friend knows that home is really where your dog is. Unfortunately, bringing your pup with you everywhere you go isn’t always as easy as you’d like it to be – and extended adventures often mean that your fur baby ends up staying behind. Luckily, times are changing. As dogs are allowed in more and more places, vehicles are rising to the occasion and creating state-of-the-art options for traveling with pets. 

While it’s true that RVs are the front runner when it comes to extended trips with dogs, travel vans are making their way onto the scene with plenty of space and amenities for Fido as well – however, it’s important to consider your pet’s safety and think about climate control, the size of your dog in comparison to the vehicle, and staying away from carpet at all costs. 

Van conversion has become a fairly popular discussion board topic over the past decade, and you’ll find endless DIY videos on how to soup up your travel van to make it the most pet-friendly as possible – and your days of leaving your pooch at home could soon be behind you. 

Keep reading to discover our picks for the 10 best travel vans for traveling with a dog. 

Table of Contents

1. Dogscamper by Terra Camper

Website: https://www.terracamper.us/dogscamper

Designed specifically with pups in mind, the Dogscamper by Terra Camper is one of the best travel vans for traveling with dogs. This German-based company specializes in conversions of the Mercedes Benz Metris vans, and they’ve recently paired up with a state-side company to give North Americans a chance to get their hands on one of these conversions as well. 

Terra Camper specializes in converting vans into homes on wheels, and their Tecamp package includes a pop-up roof, a kitchen area, lightweight modular furniture, a sleeping area for up to two humans, and so much more.

You’ll have to purchase a Tecamp conversion package before you can upgrade to the Dogscamper configuration, but while you’re spoiling your pooch you can reward yourself a bit too. If you’re planning on spending lots of time on the road or at the campsite, the full conversion is definitely worth investing in. 

The Dogscamper conversion is all about keeping your dog safe and comfortable, and the starter package includes:

• Two crate walls (each with its own door)
• A ramp for bumper protection to avoid scratches and make entry and exit easy
• A box attached to the rear door specifically for your pet’s food, water, and other essentials
• Various floor plans to choose from depending on how many dogs you’ll be traveling with and how large your pooch is

This is one of the best travel vans for both dogs and their owners, as it’s not easy to find a company that can cater to both. When you compare the price to some other conversion companies, it’s really a steal – especially when you consider that it is one of the safest options for traveling with your pup. 

2. Freedom Vans Pluto

Website: https://freedomvans.co/project/pluto/

Freedom Vans is a Washington-based van conversion company that rose to fame in the dog world after completing “Pluto” – a custom build for a woman and her four canines. While the company builds each van differently, you can take inspiration from this dog-friendly travel van and work with the company to create something similar. 

Made from the ever-popular base of a Mercedes Benz Sprinter, Pluto combines the best of living off-grid and living with your dog with thoughtful and ingenious details throughout. The van has everything you’ll need in terms of human comfort, including a kitchen, a raised queen-size bed with lots of storage space underneath it, a dining area, and even a toilet. One of the most important features is the air conditioner and temperature sensor, which allows the owner to keep track of the van temp while they’re away to make sure dogs are comfortable. 

Other perks for the pooches include:

• A raised dog bed right next to the human one
• A well-lit and spacious garage area under the bed for any crates, food, or water dishes you may wish to keep
• A doggy door for easy mobility between areas
• A hose so that owners can rinse off any dirty dogs before getting back into the van 

There are plenty of human comforts included in this van conversion as well, from the fold-down dining area and upgraded captain’s chairs to the 30-gallon freshwater tank and the 4-gallon hot water heater. Custom van conversions are all about creating a liveable space for individuals (and in this case, their four-legged friends, too), so the possibilities for dreaming up your ideal dog-friendly travel van are truly endless.

Just be sure to get started as soon as you can, as Freedom Vans usually has a 10-14 month waiting list!

3. The Dog Liner T730

Website: https://www.4pfoten-mobile.de/

While this vehicle is definitely more of a motorhome than a travel van, our list wouldn’t be complete without it. The aptly named Dog Liner T730 is fully loaded to give both you and your pooch the best travel experience possible. This RV is made from a 24-foot-long Fiat Ducato base and can sleep up to 4 humans and 2 full-sized dogs. 

Due to the larger size of this motorhome, there’s plenty of room for your whole family to spread out and make themselves at home. Your pets will stay safe while the vehicle is in motion thanks to the built-in dog kennel in the back – which is complete with:

• A padded bed
• An integrated water bowl
• A retractable ramp to avoid scratches
• A small window and personal doggy door
• You can also utilize a gate option instead of the wooden door that connects the kennel to the rest of the RV- so your fur baby doesn’t get too lonely during the drive!

Other pooch-approved features of the Dog Liner include:

• A hose for spraying off dirty paws before re-entering the motorhome
• A kennel camera accessible from the cockpit
• A climate-controlled cabin
• A pair of safety buckles in the main area if you want to have your four-legged friend a bit closer to you during the journey 

While it may seem as though this RV is a pooch palace, the motorhome is equally as equipped for humans as it is for canines. Some of the main perks include a roomy cockpit with comfortable captain’s chairs, a spacious cabin area complete with a dinette and a well-equipped kitchen, and a full bathroom with separate toilet and shower areas. 

Sleeping arrangements include a rear bed over the top of the dog kennel with a second sleeping space available by converting the dinette.

There’s also tons of storage space on board the Dog Liner T730, with a large cargo compartment next to the dog kennel, a dual bike carrier on the outside of the vehicle, and plenty of cupboards and cubbies throughout the interior.

If you’re not sold on the Dog Liner, you can always take one for a spin with 4 Pfoten (or, “4 paws”) if you happen to be traveling around Germany.

4. Advanced RV Ocean One EcOasis

Website: https://advanced-rv.com/gallery/alvar-ocean-one/

For those who truly treat their pets like family, the Advanced RV Ocean One EcOasis may be the best travel van for traveling with a dog. While the company name may have you thinking of large and bulky motorhomes, Advanced RV also caters to those looking for a custom Class B van. This company produces 100% custom-built vehicles, and their Ocean One EcOasis model has been outfitted to travel with small dogs. 

If it’s been done once, it can be done again, with all the unique features you could hope to get out of a travel van. Similar to the “Pluto” build from Freedom Vans, the Ocean One EcOasis uses a Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, though in some cases the vehicle can be elongated or widened to fit the customer’s needs. 

The best example we can look at for a custom dog build from Advanced RV is one built for transporting show dogs. If you love to spoil your pups, you can take some inspiration from this impressively outfitted travel van. Complete with two twin beds atop the dog kennels, this van is perfect for two humans and two small dogs. There is a spacious kitchen area on board that boasts a large refrigerator, a microwave, lots of storage cabinets, a portable cooktop, and a single pod coffee machine. You’ll also find a bathroom with a porcelain toilet, shower, and sink on this model, along with other features catered toward the human passengers like a flat-screen TV, WiFi, security cameras, and a Pioneer stereo system. 

The real luxury here is for the dogs, however (literally!):

• Their kennels are made with foldaway screen doors.
• Your pooch will sleep on decked out waterbeds.
• They’ll have their own separate HVAC units.
• The hallway area between the kennels even features mats for any dirty paws roaming around the cabin when it’s parked.

Of course, not every dog can hope to be this spoiled (especially if you’re on a budget), but it’s nice to know that there are possibilities for customizing a travel van to make your fur baby as comfortable as possible. 

5. 2015 Volkswagen Crafter by This Moving House

Another inspirational pup-approved van conversion comes from the UK company This Moving House. Specializing in unique custom builds, This Moving House created one of the best travel vans for traveling with dogs back in 2015. The base vehicle is a Volkswagen Crafter, and while it may look like any old van on the outside, the inside has been designed with dogs in mind. 

This van was converted for a client and her two canines, although there’s space enough for two humans thanks to the pull-out guest bed and main single bed. There’s also a kitchen area with a single stovetop, grill, mini-fridge, and a sink, a portable toilet, three swivel seats in the cockpit, and lots of storage space for both your belongings and your fur babies. 

When the guest bed is tucked away, your pooch can use the set of stairs that lead up to the bed, and there’s even a cubby built into the side of one stair for their food and water dishes. The back of the van (underneath the bed) is dedicated to two dog kennels so that your pup can ride safely, and two small gates open up to the main cabin area so that they are never truly alone. 

Of course, this travel van is just one example of all the ways you could customize a vehicle to fit your (and your dog’s) wants and needs – and your options are truly endless. Custom van builds are never cheap, but a conversion like this one is worth every penny if you want to travel with your pet. 

6. RB Components Sawtooth Touring Van

Website: https://rbcomponents.com/products/sawtooth-04

Those interested in traveling far off the beaten path with their pup should consider the RB Components Sawtooth Touring Van. This fully outfitted 4×4 is another Mercedes Benz Sprinter build, and this travel van is built for the wild.

While it’s not designed specifically for dogs, it’s a great option for those who are looking to spend some quality time in the great outdoors with their pooch. Whether you’re going on a cross-country adventure or just on a weekend getaway, this van has everything you’ll need. 

The exterior features make it easy to spend as much time as possible outside with your four-legged friend, including:

• A full-sized awning
• A built-in BBQ
• A hose to spray down your dirty pup before re-entering the van

The inside of the van has a place for you to shower off as well, along with a toilet, kitchen, dining area, and spacious sleeping space in the back. You’ll also find tons of storage space throughout the van; when the bed flips up, there’s more than enough room to fit a large kennel. 

7. Mercedes Benz Sprinter

Website: https://www.mbvans.com/en/sprinter

If you’re interested in converting a van into a pet-friendly home on wheels but want to save some cash, you could always buy a base vehicle and do the heavy lifting yourself. One of the most popular travel vans for conversions is the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, and there are a few reasons why this one leads the pack.

Not only is it extremely affordable, but it also boasts some great safety features including brake and attention assist, a 360-degree camera, and a blind spot mirror, to name a few. 

The Mercedes Sprinter is the perfect size for small-scale conversions and is easy to drive and park virtually anywhere. There’s a reason why so many travel vans use this chassis and they’re available in almost every country on earth. If you want to reduce your budget even further, you’ll likely be able to buy one of these vehicles second-hand – and if you’re lucky, there might already be some upgraded components.

While you’ll likely have to watch countless hours of Youtube instructional videos to build the travel van of your dreams, doing it yourself ensures that you can install all the pet-friendly features you’ll need for traveling with your best friend. You can take inspiration from some of the other travel vans on our list, or simply use your creativity and hone in on your DIY skills – the sky’s the limit with this one! 

Of course, you don’t need to get crazy. The base vehicle is large enough to fit a crate in the back, and if you’re planning on tent camping anyway, there’s really no need for fancy features like beds, bathrooms, and kitchens in your van. Those who enjoy spending most of their time in the great outdoors with their dog and simply need a way to get from point A to point B can get off cheap with the Mercedes Benz Sprinter.

8. Winnebago Travato

Website: https://www.winnebago.com/models/product/motorhomes/camper-van/travato

The Winnebago Travato is another one of the best travel vans for traveling with a dog, and even if you don’t add on any pricey conversions, this large vehicle should work for both you and your furry friend. The Travato has plenty of space for stretching out and relaxing, and the vinyl flooring ensures that even the sharpest claws won’t cause too much damage. 

There are a few different models of the Winnebago Travato that you can choose from, and the best one for you and your pooch will depend on your travel needs: Two of the best options are the 59K and the 59KL, both of which have a wet room area in the back of the van. The double doors in the rear open up to this room, allowing you to shower your pup and make sure there are no dirty paws when entering the interior. 

The floor plans don’t vary much, and you’ll find all the human comforts you’ll need like a sleeping area, kitchen, dinette, TV, and a cozy cockpit area with comfortable leather chairs.

Just like the Mercedes Benz Sprinter, you could always add your own customizations to make it more pet-friendly, but the Travato is a great travel van all on its own. The price tag is a bit high, especially if you plan on adding some upgrades – but if you’re looking for a well-equipped base vehicle, this might be one of your best options. 

9. A.C.E Class A Motorhome

Website: https://www.thormotorcoach.com/ace/

If you don’t mind driving a big rig, the A.C.E Class A Motorhome is one of the best ways to travel with a dog. While it’s massive compared to the other travel vans on our list, it has some unique features geared toward the four-legged passengers in your group that deserve some attention. 

This massive vehicle is spacious enough for your whole family, and some of the pet-friendly features include:

• Vinyl floors that are paw approved
• A “motorhome mudroom” to keep your pup (and your RV) clean as a whistle
• An integrated pull-out kibble station so that their food and water stays put
• A dog-height window so your pooch can enjoy some squirrel or bird watching from the comfort of the motorhome 

Of course, this home on wheels is big enough for everyone to feel at home, including the human passengers. You can relax on the sofa and watch a movie on the flat-screen TV, enjoy a meal in the spacious dining area, read a book in the bunk bed, or scroll through your phone thanks to the onboard WiFi. 

The kitchen is outfitted with a three-burner stovetop, double-door refrigerator, microwave, small oven, and a deep stainless steel sink. There’s also plenty of storage space in this area and throughout the RV – so there’s no need to worry about having to pack lightly. Another key feature onboard the A.C.E is the full bathroom, complete with a large shower, porcelain toilet, and sink. 

There are numerous configuration options for this Class A motorhome, and you should have no problem finding a setup that works for you and yours. There are also various upgrades you can purchase if you’re looking to really live in the lap of luxury – but just know that the base model alone is going to cost you a pretty penny. 

10. NOAH Cross City Capsule

One of the biggest stars at the 2016 Japanese Camping Car Show was the NOAH Cross City Capsule from Tokai Utility Motor. Made with a Toyota chassis, this aesthetically pleasing vehicle is one of the best travel vans for traveling with a dog.

Unfortunately, this design has yet to be streamlined and available to the public – but our list just wouldn’t be complete without it. At the very least, it’s a great example of what the future could hold for traveling with dogs. 

The fun orange and white color scheme can be seen throughout, from the exterior details to the steering wheel and the removable components of the van. But this vehicle made headlines for more than just its good looks. The rear of this small vehicle has been transformed into a sleeping area for both humans and canines, with a kennel pod and sleeping bunk taking up half of the space. 

The other half of the van is open space and could be used as an additional sleeping area or as a storage space for any gear or luggage you may have. There’s also a small tailgating table in the complementing orange and white colors, along with a matching dog carrier. This travel van is perfect for small dogs (and humans, for that matter), and if nothing else, this unique vehicle can act as an inspiration for pet-friendly travel van conversions in the future. 

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What's your chance of seeing the northern lights tonight? A look at Saturday's forecast

Illuminating the night sky with pink, green and gray colors, the northern lights made its appearance in the United Kingdom and the northern half of the United States on Friday. The magical phenomena could happen again tonight.

The show fascinated many onlookers as they took out their phones to capture the beauty of the night sky. On Friday, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued extreme (G5) conditions across the United States. A storm of this intensity has not been seen since October 2003. The storm gained the name "Halloween Storm" and caused many power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa, according to Earth.com .

Meteorologists have predicted that the northern lights can be visible on Saturday as well as Sunday. If you are going outside to see the northern lights, forecasters want to remind the public that their solar eclipse glasses can be used for viewing the phenomenon.

Here's what you need to know to prepare for the next viewing of the northern lights.

The northern lights: Danced across the US last night. It could happen again Saturday.

What is the cloud forecast Saturday night? Will clouds block the northern lights?

If you missed the aurora borealis Friday night, you might still catch a glimpse on Saturday or Sunday, depending on where you live. But not if clouds get in the way.

The cloud forecast for Saturday night is generally good for most of America, but some of the people who missed their chance last night due to clouds may have a similar problem Saturday, said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines. Areas that are likely to be cloudy include New England and Mid-Atlantic regions, as well as parts of the Southern Plains, including Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado.

“Even just a few breaks in the clouds will allow the aurora to be visible,” Kines said. “There’s always hope.”

Peak visibility time Saturday night will be between 9 p.m. and midnight, with some chance until 2 a.m., Kines said. The best views will be in dark areas away from the light pollution of cities, he said, though some reported seeing the auroras Friday night from metro areas like Milwaukee and Detroit.

Sunday night, if there is any aurora to see, those in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic can rejoice, because Kines said the skies should be clearer.

Where can you see the northern lights tonight?

The Space and Weather Prediction Center  offers an experimental forecast map  that shows the aurora may be visible in a wide swath of the U.S. including Oregon, Nebraska, Indiana and Pennsylvania. Other states like California, Alabama, Mississippi and Florida could also see the sky light up again for an encore performance. But visibility will depend on shifting factors that include weather, pollution and cloud cover.

Below are forecast predictions for seeing the northern lights in New York, Michigan, Wisconsin, Ohio and Indiana on Saturday.

Rain and clouds are expected to damper expectations to see the aurora borealis around the Rochester, N.Y. area . Elsewhere in NY, the  Lower Hudson Valley could see the lights again, if weather permits. 

NWS maps predicting the intensity and location of the northern lights Saturday and Sunday show the aurora will be visible in mid to northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula.

Saturday and Sunday are predicted to be mostly cloudy with some rain showers and isolated thunderstorms. The NWS predicted 48% to 58% sky cover in metro Detroit from 8 p.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday. The western portion of both peninsulas are expected to have a lower cloud cover.

In the Milwaukee area , the evening is expected to bring mostly clear skies and overnight will have scattered clouds, said Tim Halbach, local meteorologist with the National Weather Service. 

Those living around the Cincinnati region could be treated to the northern lights Saturday night with the NWS' Wilmington, Ohio , office forecasting dry, partly cloudy conditions. Clouds shouldn't be an issue as many Ohioans reported seeing the lights Friday despite some cloud cover.

 In a telephone interview, Mike Bettwy, operations chief of the NOAA's  Space Weather Prediction Center  in Boulder, Co, said Indianapolis and surrounding areas might have a better chance of seeing the aurora today and Sunday.

They can expect clear skies tonight, Bettwy said.

"The aurora itself might be actually a little bit less active than it was last night," he told IndyStar. "I think the ability for you to see it will be better because the skies will be clearing out — at least in the Indianapolis area and that immediate vicinity."

Northern lights forecast path

If you want to get a better idea of if you will be able to see the northern lights from your state, check NOAA's aurora forecast tool , which has a 30-minute forecast window. 

The auroras are a natural light display in Earth's sky that are famously best seen in high-latitude regions.

Scientist left amazed by the aurora

The aurora seen on May 10 amazed Antonella Fruscione, an astrophysicist at the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory. She sent photos of the lights and the April eclipse to her friends in Italy. The northern lights weren't as prominent in Italy as it was in other places.

"And I sent them the picture that I took at the solar eclipse and I said, 'Can you imagine how fortunate I was this year, one month apart, I see these two incredible spectacles of the universe,'" she recalled telling them.

The phenomena seen Friday and possibly Saturday night isn't usual, she said.

"It's a very rare occurrence, especially because last night it was really visible," Fruscione said.

That's because the Earth's magnetic activity was at a nine, the highest the index goes, coupled with the Sun being at an active peak, causing eruptions. She added the colors cannot be predicted either as it depends on how the solar energetic particles interact with oxygen and nitrogen atoms. Oxygen appears green, while nitrogen appears purple, blue or pink, she said.

"It just depends on which atoms in the atmosphere this particle interact with," Fruscione said.

She declined to predict how strong Saturday's aurora could be as it's not in her expertise, but said people make predictions all the time about space weather not just for the northern lights, but to ensure communications, space stations, astronauts and other matter in space doesn't get majorly disrupted.

Down on Earth, however, the activity is harmless to humans.

"It's completely harmless because the particles do not don't do not reach us," Fruscione said. "The reason why we see the colors is that the particle interacts with the atoms and they make these beautiful colors and that's it."

For Saturday, and any other day where chatter about the aurora borealis is high, Fruscione encouraged people to download an aurora forecasting app to their phones so they can see the colorful skies.

What are the northern lights?

The northern lights materialize when energized particles from the sun reach Earth's upper atmosphere at speeds of up to 45 million mph,  according to Space.com . Earth's magnetic field redirects the particles toward the poles through a process that produces a stunning display of rays, spirals and flickers that has fascinated humans for millennia.

Contributing: Eric Lagatta and Dinah Voyles Pulver , USA TODAY ; Tanya Wildt, Detroit Free Press ; Alex Groth, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel ; Contributing: Bebe Hodges, Cincinnati Enquirer ; Contributing: Steve Howe, Rochester Democrat and Chronicle; Rockland/Westchester Journal News ; Alexandria Burris, Indianapolis Star

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter)

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Burlington businesses prepare to welcome thousands of visitors for 2024 vermont city marathon.

“I know all the businesses here are really excited to welcome visitors, whether from the marathon or just a weekend visit from out of town. We love having visitors here," Van Dusen said.

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With less than two weeks to go until the 2024 Vermont City Marathon, businesses in Burlington are getting ready to welcome thousands of visitors.

Magda Van Dusen, co-owner of Brio Coffeeworks on Pine Street, said she's excited to welcome everyone coming to the Queen City with a fresh cup of coffee and marathon spirit.

Van Dusen and her husband started the coffee shop in 2014, but it was only in the last five years that they found a new home for their beloved business at The Soda Plant. Now, they have a front row seat to miles 1 and 14 on the marathon route.

Van Dusen said she's prepared to welcome everyone to her small business.

“Tourism is such an important part of Burlington, but also Vermont overall. And we’re just always grateful for people to come and visit our beautiful state," she said.

For many, the Vermont City Marathon and Memorial Day weekend are unofficially known as the kickoff to summer in the Queen City. But before the marathon came around, Joe Connelly, Run Vermont's executive director, said this used to be a quiet time for Burlington businesses.

“I remember before the VCM got going in the late 80s, Vermont or Burlington specifically was a little quiet right through July 3rd," Connelly said.

Now, however, he said it's a very different picture.

"You’re going to have full restaurants. Definitely make your reservations early and, you know, hotels and everything," he said. "Everything we heard is they’re doing very good with bookings.”

NBC5 will continue to bring the latest marathon coverage as we continue counting down to the big event on Sunday, May 26.

Read more about this year's Vermont City Marathon

Macron, von der Leyen press China's Xi on trade in Paris talks

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'Dictator douchebag': Estranged Trump lawyer Cohen grilled over social media posts

Donald Trump's lawyers sought to use Michael Cohen's words against him on Tuesday, grilling him about insulting social media posts and television appearances to try to undermine his testimony that Trump authorized a hush money payment to a porn star.

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Alien: Romulus

While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe. While scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station, a group of young space colonizers come face to face with the most terrifying life form in the universe.

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• Trivia Director Fede Alvarez sought out special effects crew from Aliens (1986) to work on the creatures. Physical sets, practical creatures, and miniatures were used wherever possible to help ground later VFX work.
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