Which vehicle to choose for a camper van conversion project?

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

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

After exploring more than 20 different vans, we 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 convert a van into a camper van.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a long-term road trip, choosing the right van is crucial. From our experience, the best vehicles for camper van 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 conversions of small and large camper vans

Average cost of a camper van conversion

Before diving into a discussion about camper vans 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 a Sprinter van conversion, so if you are looking for a complete guide on conversion costs, be sure to check it out.

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

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

Camper van conversion requirements

After cost, you need to be clear on 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 upright inside or not)
• Access doors (side and/or rear)
• Mileage
• Storage and cabin systems

Top vans to convert into camper vans

As the base of your home on wheels, the van you choose for your conversion 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 did some research to understand the pros and cons of the most popular vans to convert into camper vans, including the cost of the base van. Here is our selection of the best vans to convert into camper vans.

Mercedes-Benz Sprinter

Mercedes Sprinter vans are one of the most popular (if not the most popular) vehicles for camper van 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 camper vans, 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 have premium 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 may be more expensive than your conversion if you stick to an average between €30,000 and €32,000.

Fiat Ducato

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

That said, car problems 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 offers a lot of variety and flexibility.

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

In the rear cargo space, you will love the 90-degree side walls that make cutting and fitting your layout easier.

Although you don't have the same premium dashboard in the cabin as a Mercedes Sprinter, the Fiat Ducato's dashboard is nicer than that of the Ford Transit.

In terms of driving, the Ducato can be a bit harder 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 go off-road in rougher areas.

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

Ford Transit

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

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

Both models have interior ceilings high enough (three roof height options) for you to stand upright.

One advantage 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 nationwide, making repairs or spare parts easier, faster, and more affordable in case of 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 adventuring from your campsite rather than driving for long periods.

However, the Transit does have a premium 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 camper vans I have listed in this article.

However, since the Transit is a newer model for camper van conversions, you might have trouble finding a used model if your budget is limited.

VW Crafter

Volkswagen has long been a classic brand in vanlife, with vintage models like the Westfalia and VW bus that have been Instagram highlights over the past decades.

The VW Crafter is designed more as a camper van, with higher roofs and 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 the van models for work and van conversions, with 14 built-in recessed tie-down rings in the floor, an interior roof rack, and tie-down rails on both walls.

Inside, you will find 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, since Volkswagen is a European company.

However, it has been around for some time 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 Renault Trafic.

Like the Chevrolet Express, it is designed as a passenger camper 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 newest Trafic models are designed with dimensions identical to older models, so you can use nearly two decades of camper van 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 since it is a European vehicle and automotive shops in the most rural areas of the United States may not be equipped to do much in case of breakdown.

The Renault Trafic also features a premium 1.6-liter diesel engine, both very efficient and powerful, with smooth driving.

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 home on wheels conversion.

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 traveling with family, choose the Doublecab.

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

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

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

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

Plan your layout for a camper van 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 consider, such as:

• Consider the interior height relative to where you will stay, if weather will be a factor, and your budget.
• Make sure the van layout fits your lifestyle, for example the number of people you will travel with, if you have a shower and toilet, how you will cook, if you need a workspace and available storage.

The steps to follow when planning your van's interior layout include:

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