I dream of owning a campervan, but trading my car in isn’t practical with my commute or budget. Enter micro campervans! These small van conversions are great for solo people or couples wanting overnight adventures.
This blog series focuses on these less talked about small conversions. If you’re converting a medium or large van, there’s already plenty of resources online – just google it. Find out what size van suits you:
Small Vans AKA Micro Campervans
Small vans are the easiest to drive and fuel economy isn’t bad, but they don’t have room for everything. They’re a great option for daily commuting in combination with overnight adventures for 1-2 people.
You can fit in a couple of luxuries (like a sink!) or save the space for that all-important outdoor gear. Fitting both a bed and rear passenger seats won’t be easy and even sitting upright on the bed may be a challenge. Most vans this size come in two length options -a full length bed won’t fit in the shorter one.
Models to consider: Volkswagen Caddy, Ford Transit Connect, Citroen Berlingo
Medium Vans
Driving them takes a little more effort, but they’re still significantly more maneuverable than larger vans. They’re a popular size for weekends away for couples or those with small children. Longer term use is feasible for solo travellers.
The interior is a little cramped, with the layout likely to forego a toilet. They have 1-2 passenger seats in the front, but fitting a rock and roll bed in the back provides extra passenger seats. Pop up tops can be installed on a number of models, giving a second bed and/or the option to stand up.
Models to consider: Renault Trafic, Volkswagen Transporter, Ford Transit Custom
Large Vans
If you’re used to driving cars, be aware that driving vans this size requires more skill. Also factor in difficulty parking in urban areas and fuel economy taking a hit.
On the plus side, they have much more room and you can stand up in many of them. If cleverly designed, fitting a bed, kitchen area, seating and even a toilet is possible. They can accommodate 1-4 people going on holidays over a week or 1-2 people living full time in it.
Models to consider: Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Ford Transit
