Introduction
Campervans have become the vehicle of choice for those adventurers who love the open road but desire the practicality of driving a smaller vehicle. If you’re travelling through the Scottish Highlands, or hitting up an iconic Route 66 road trip, a campervan makes for a great travel buddy.
Smaller than traditional motorhomes, they’re easy to drive, fuel-efficient and can also be parked in standard spaces — a win-win for both urban explorers and more rural adventurers.
In this guide, we’re covering everything you’ll want to know about campervans, including popular models, pros and cons, costs and essential travel tips to help maximise your adventure.
What Is a Campervan?
A campervan is a compact motorhome based on a van chassis that provides basic living facilities such as a sleeping area, kitchenette, and occasionally a small bathroom. Being smaller and more maneuverable than full-sized motorhomes, campervans are ideal for solo travelers, couples, and small families.
Why Choose a Campervan?
✅ Compact & Driveable – Will fit in the majority of parking spots and can be driven like a regular van.
✅ Fuel Efficient — Consumes less fuel than its larger motorhome counterparts.
✅ Multifaceted Travels — Makes for perfect city trips and even off-grid journeys
✅ Budget-Friendly – Overall less money to buy, insure and operate.
❌ Less Lifestyle Space – Not as many amenities as motorhomes.
❌ Less space — one must pack light.
Image: Popular campervan models in the UK 🇬🇧
British roads and British campsites lend themselve well to the compact yet functional campervans that are so popular over here, your manufacturer of choice will be whatever you’ve come accross in the UK. Here are some of the top campervans that you can get in the UK:
VW California
VW have long been associated with the campervan culture and the VW California is the current incarnation of their famous camper. Features:
Pop-top roof for additional sleeping quarters
Compact with a small stove and fridge
Seats that turn into a bed through adjustable laying
Ford Transit Custom Nugget
Ford’s Transit Custom Nugget has an intelligent design for the road-tripper who desires extra comfort. Features:
Kitchen area with two-burner stovetop
Fixed sleeping area with pop-up roof
Year-round travel with a diesel-fueled heating system
Mercedes Marco Polo
The Mercedes Marco Polo is a stylish high-end campervan, perfect for those who want elegance during long road trips. Features:
Modern, refined interior with high-quality materials
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Data up to October 2023
Most Popular Campervans in the US 🇺🇸
In the USA as the campervan market has expanded, travelers are looking for off-grid, weekend getaways in their vans. Here are a few of the most coveted models:
Winnebago Solis
Winnebago is one of the biggest names in the RV business, and it will take you off-grid in its Solis model. Features:
Extra sleeping space with pop-top roof
Please continue to our 2023 Boondocking guide.
Murphy bed that folds down to save space
Roadtrek Zion
Link: https://www.roverpass.com/c/roadtrek-zion-camper-rental-eye-6992/ Features:
Ample cabin space with configurable seating
Lithium Battery and Solar Power System
Shower and toilet inside full wet bath
Ford Transit Adventure Van
Ford’s Transit Adventure Van is a DIY-friendly, customizable campervan available for van lifers and weekend warriors alike. Features:
Customizable modular interior
Off-road adventure: AWD capabilities
Energy-efficient appliances
Where Else Do People Travel with a Campervan? 🌍
The main advantage of campervans is their versatility — you can easily drive and visit cities, coastal areas, mountains and off-grid destinations. Below are a few campervan-friendly places worth visiting:
Campervan Destinations in the UK 🇬🇧
The Lake District – Beautiful lakes, stunning mountains, and amazing campsites.
The Scottish Highlands – Epic scenery and big free wild camping.
Cornwall & Devon – Gorgeous beaches and cute coastal towns.
Where To Camp Using A Van 🚙 (Best Campervan Destinations in USA 🇺🇸)
Pacific Coast Highway (California) – A spectacular road trip along the coast.
Yellowstone National Park — Geysers, wildlife and scenic camping.
Utah’s Mighty Five – Visit Zion, Bryce Canyon, Arches, Capitol Reef, and Canyonlands.
Cost of a Campervan & buying guide 💰
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Campervan?
ModelNew Price (Approx)Used Price (Approx)VW California£50,000 – £75,000£25,000 – £50,000Ford Transit Nugget£45,000 – £70,000£20,000 – £45,000Mercedes Marco Polo£55,000 – £80,000£30,000 – £60,000Winnebago Solis$90,000 – $120,000$50,000 – $80,000Roadtrek Zion$100,000 – $130,000$60,000 – $90,000Ford Transit Van$40,000 – $80,000$20,000 – $50,000
Buying New vs. Used
New: Comes with a warranty, has the latest technology features but is the pricier option
Used: Cheaper option but could need some servicing and updates.
Campervan Travel Essentials 🚐✨
Pack Smart
Efficient storage with packing cubes
Buy collapsible kitchenware.
Travel light Minimize your packing to take up less space.
Plan Your Route
To find places to camp, use apps such as Park4Night (UK) or iOverlander (USA).
Research the rules for overnight parking.
Stay Off-Grid Ready
Install solar panels for energy independence
Keep extra water and fuel for remote areas.
Get internet through portable Wi-Fi devices.
Final Thoughts 🌍🚐
Campervans have the ideal combination of flexibility, coziness, and adventure. Whether you’re touring the rolling hills of the UK or planning an epic road trip across the USA, there is a campervan to enjoy your travel style.
From budget models to high-end luxury builds, the campervan lifestyle is more accessible than ever. So, are you up for the challenge?
🚐 Do you have a campervan or fantasise about living in a van? Let us know what you think in the comments! ✨