Just like finding the perfect spot to pitch a tent, a solid foundation is key to any successful camping trip — and having the right campervan base is no different. With that in mind: here’s our best vans for converting into campervans.
Whether you’re buying from a campervan conversion specialist or taking matters into your own hands for a DIY build, selecting the right van base model for your camper is vital.
There is no ‘one size fits all’ solution: it all depends on your needs. From van-lifers to long-weekenders, cabin space to maneuverability, campervan beauty is in the eye of the beholder.
Luckily, there are plenty of options out there waiting to be converted into your dream campervan. So here are our top picks to avoid a castle camper built on sand, and to provide the ideal camper base.
5. Vauxhall Vivaro
This first choice slots nicely into the gap between micro campers such as the VW Caddy and large LCV bases like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. The Vauxhall Vivaro is a compact, versatile van for campervan conversion.
As the Vivaro is on the smaller side, with the latest model ranging from 4.98 m to 5.33 m, you can easily sneak into smaller pitches and parking spots. But has this practical sizing hampered the room for camper gear inside? Well, offering up to 6.6m3 of room to play with there is still plenty of scope for conversion fun. Whether installing a simple sleeping setup or going all in with a bed and breakfast conversion complete with kitchenettes and fridges — anything is possible.
Car like handling is a nice side effect of the Vivaro’s diminutive dimensions. Easy to drive, this makes a great option for those not used to being behind the wheel of a large van, or those after a daily driver for when the camping gear is left at home. Even better, it represents a relatively economical option by steering clear of the brick-like aerodynamics often seen in larger LCVs.
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Up at the other end of the scale, the Mercedes Sprinter represents one of the best large vans for campervan conversion.
Tried and tested by the community, Sprinters have raced to the forefront of the van life world. With over 1,700 new Sprinter variants out there, and a used market almost 30 years deep, the flexibility for converters is almost unmatched. Although maneuverability is sacrificed, the Sprinter’s frame (maxing out at 7.37 m long and 2.99 m tall) provides up to 15.5m3 of blank campervan canvas in the back. We’ve seen these filled with everything from tiled splashbacks, to cinema-eque setups over a camping bed — sprinkling yet more luxury onto the premium base.
As a fan favourite, there’s an abundance of specialist-built Sprinter campers out there, but also an almost infinite supply of DIY resources, build tutorials, discussion platforms, and ‘inspo’ posts for those looking to take matters into their own hands. In short, if you’ve seen a tempting feature in a campervan before, you’ll be able to replicate it in a Sprinter — one way or another.