Which vehicle to choose for a van conversion project?

In our quest for the best vans for conversion into campervans, many models present themselves as options, and some stand out more than others.

Transforming a van into a comfortable and roadworthy campervan is a dream for many, but the success of this endeavor largely depends on choosing the right base vehicle. Thanks to our hands-on experience in converting custom campervans, we have examined everything from durability and reliability to ease of conversion.

After exploring more than 20 different vans, we have determined that the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the best overall option. Its blend of reliability, spacious interior, and versatility makes it the top choice for anyone looking to transform a van into a campervan.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a long-term road trip, choosing the right van is crucial. Based on our experience, the best vehicles for campervan conversion are:

• Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Best overall for reliability and space
• Fiat Ducato: Very good choice – used by most professional converters
• Ford Transit: Excellent choice for modern features and maneuverability
• VW Crafter: Ideal for comfort and driving experience
• Renault Trafic: a strong option for fuel efficiency and city maneuverability
• Opel Movano: versatile for converting small and large campervans

Average cost of a campervan conversion

Before we dive into a discussion about campervans themselves, you might be curious about the cost of converting a van into a home on wheels. A few months ago, we wrote a comprehensive article on the cost of converting a Sprinter van, so if you are looking for a complete guide on conversion costs, be sure to check it out.

However, generally speaking, a van transformation costs between €8,000 and €25,000. Converting your van could cost as little as €5,000 if you get creative with the materials you use and source a lot of used or recycled materials. If you equip your van with all the high-end features and characteristics, some projects can reach €150,000.

Keep in mind that this adds to the cost of the van itself, so be sure to factor that in when comparing the models below with your overall budget.

Campervan conversion requirements

After the cost, you need to be clear about some important requirements before choosing the right van for your conversion project. Some of the main requirements to consider include:

• Wheelbase and length
• Interior height (ability to stand up inside or not)
• Access doors (side and/or rear)
• Mileage
• Storage and cabin systems

Top vans to convert into campervans

As the base for your home on wheels, the van you choose for your transformation is one of the most important decisions you will make. Factors such as maneuverability, reliability, shape, and size have a significant impact on your build as well as your comfort and lifestyle inside. We have done some research to find out the pros and cons of the most popular vans to convert into campervans, including the cost of the base van. Here is our selection of the best vans to convert into campervans.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Mercedes Sprinter vans are one of the most popular (if not the most popular) vehicles for campervan conversions.

Although they cost more than some of the other cargo vans on this list, they make up for it with their safety features, maneuverability, and the variety available in terms of size, length, and interior height.

One of the advantages of choosing a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter for your conversion is that it is one of the safest campervans, equipped with high-tech safety equipment and features.

You can also find Mercedes Sprinters in a wide range of lengths, wheelbases, and roof height variations for more or less interior space.

Sprinters also feature high-end cabins equipped with high-tech controls from Mercedes' passenger cars.

The biggest drawback of a Mercedes Sprinter is probably the price. New Sprinter vans often cost between €35,000 and €57,000, so the van can be more expensive than your conversion if you stick to an average between €30,000 and €32,000.

Fiat Ducato

Fiat Ducato vans can be easier to maintain and repair than Mercedes Sprinter vans if you have car issues.

That said, car issues may be more frequent with a Fiat Ducato due to the vehicle's below-average reliability rating.

When considering a Fiat Ducato for your van conversion, the brand has a lot of variety and flexibility to offer.

You can choose between two exterior heights, several configurations, and three different wheelbases, in addition to sizes L1H1, L2H2, up to L4H3!

In the rear cargo space, you will love the 90-degree side walls that make it easy to cut and fit your layout.

While you don't have the same high-end dashboard in the cabin as a Mercedes Sprinter, the dashboard of the Fiat Ducato is nicer than that of the Ford Transit.

In terms of driving, the Ducato can be a bit more difficult to maneuver than some vans on this list, as its handling is solid.

It is also front-wheel drive only, so you won't be able to venture off-road in rougher areas.

Ultimately, the Fiat Ducato is one of the most affordable campervans to convert, costing between €31,000 and €44,000 for a new campervan. Of course, older and used models will be even more affordable.

Ford Transit

Ford is another major American brand of utility vans ideal for campervan conversions. Their Transit model has replaced the Econoline and Club Wagon to provide a reliable, comfortable, and affordable option for van life.

Choose between the Crew Van or the Cargo Van, available in three different lengths, two wheelbase options, three different engines, and a variety of colors.

Both models have sufficiently high interior ceilings (three roof heights to choose from) so you can stand up.

One of the advantages of the Ford Transit over the Fiat Ducato is that the 2020 model features intelligent all-wheel drive to improve your van's traction on snow, ice, and mud.

The engines and mechanics of the Ford Transit are also standard across the country, making repairs or spare parts easier, faster, and more affordable in case of a breakdown. A potential downside of the Transit is its basic driving cabin.

It doesn't have many features, but that may not be a priority for your van conversion, especially if you spend more time relaxing in your van or heading out on adventures from your campsite rather than driving for long periods.

However, the Transit does have a high-end stereo system with smartphone connectivity.

A brand new Ford Transit costs between €23,000 and €39,000, which is more affordable than some of the other campervans I have listed in this article.

However, since the Transit is a newer model for campervan conversions, you may have difficulty finding a used model if your budget is limited.

VW Crafter

Volkswagen has long been a classic brand in vanlife, with old-school models like the Westfalia and VW bus that have made headlines on Instagram over the past decades.

The VW Crafter is designed more like a campervan, with higher roofs and interior ceilings and a more modern body.

The Volkswagen Crafter van is available in three different lengths and heights, so you can choose the model that best fits your needs.

VW has also perfectly prepared van models for work and van conversions, with 14 built-in tie-down rings integrated into the floor, an interior roof rack, and tie-down rails on both walls.

In the cabin, you will find that you won't really need to make modifications to make driving comfortable, with built-in storage for your devices, water and coffee cups, sunglasses, and much more.

The cost of a new VW Crafter varies significantly depending on the model you choose and where you buy it, as Volkswagen is a European company.

However, it has been around for a while, and you will likely find many new and used Crafter vans available here in the United States.

A new VW Crafter typically costs between €27,000 and €50,000.

Renault Trafic

Another European van manufacturer that vanlifers love for their conversions is the Renault Trafic.

Like the Chevrolet Express, it is designed as a passenger van, so you may need to remove several seats for your conversion.

However, the interior space is ready for conversion, with plenty of room and a modular design to facilitate your build.

Even the latest Trafic models are designed with the same dimensions as older models, so you can use nearly two decades of van conversion plans, designs, and equipment for your conversion.

The advantage of the Renault Trafic is that the van has an excellent reputation for reliability, so you shouldn't have to do much in terms of maintenance and repairs.

This is important, as it is a European vehicle and the auto repair shops in the most rural areas of the United States may not be equipped to do much in case of a breakdown.

The Renault Trafic also features a high-end 1.6-liter diesel engine, which is both very efficient and powerful, with a smooth drive.

The driving cabin of the Renault Trafic has excellent storage compartments for your devices and personal belongings.

In terms of cost, the Renault Trafic varies in price and starts at €22,000 new.

You may also be able to find an older or used model on the market, further reducing your initial costs or leaving you more room in the budget for your conversion.

Opel Movano

Last on this list, but certainly not least, the Opel Movano is another popular European van that vanlifers consider for their conversion into a home on wheels.

It has a bit more to offer in terms of choice, with four different lengths, three different heights, manual and automatic transmission options, and a fuel-efficient diesel engine.

You can also opt for a classic Opel Movano van or, if you are traveling with family, choose the Doublecab.

Additional advantages to note are that the Opel Movano comes with extra built-in safety features and a Navi 50 IntelliLink Pro infotainment system with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™ featuring a 7-inch touchscreen and built-in navigation.

The cargo space is quite large, even on shorter models, so you will have enough room to convert your Opel Movano into your new van.

The price of a brand new Opel Movano campervan starts at €28,000, placing it in the mid-range for campervans on this list.

Although it may not be as readily available as the American brands on this list, it remains very popular among vanlifers and may be worth purchasing in the UK.

Planning your layout for a campervan conversion

After selecting the ideal van for your conversion, it's time to start planning the perfect layout and floor plan. There are certain things you will want to think about, such as:

• Consider the interior height in relation to the places you will stay, whether the weather will be a factor, and your budget.
• Ensure that the van layout will fit your lifestyle, such as the number of people you will be traveling with, whether you need a shower and toilet, how you will cook, and if you need workspace and available storage.

The steps to follow when planning the interior layout of your van include:

• Make a list of large items
• Take your measurements
• Start designing the layout on paper or using a software tool
• Consider safety
• Account for weight distribution