Top-rated camper vans for conversion in 2025: our preferred choices
Ready to hit the road and create some unforgettable memories in your very own campervan? Choosing the right base vehicle is a crucial part of your journey, and we've got you covered with our top picks for the best vans for camper conversion.
Whether you're an experienced traveler or a weekend warrior, there's a perfect van out there to suit your needs and make your road trip adventures more comfortable and enjoyable. From nimble vans for solo travelers to larger, roomier options for families, here are some of the standout candidates on the market:
Campervan Base Vehicle Options
- VW Transporter T7
- Pros: Iconic design, versatile engine options, including hybrid and electric drives, and a comfortable driving experience.
- Cons: Can be challenging to park due to extended length, shape might limit certain storage solutions.
- Ford Transit Custom
- Pros: Boxy design offering more interior space, car-like cab for comfort, and a strong reputation among tradespeople.
- Cons: Automatic gearbox options limited compared to rivals like VW and Fiat.
- Fiat Ducato
- Pros: Square shape ensures more interior space and easier conversion, flexible fuselage for improved piping and wiring installation.
- Cons: Long production delays in the aftermath of the pandemic resulted in fewer converters turning to it.
- Peugeot Boxer
- Pros: Affordable base vehicle for motorhome conversions, easily customizable, similar to Fiat Ducato in design.
- Cons: Limited automatic gearbox options compared to Fiat.
- Citroën Relay
- Pros: Budget-friendly base vehicle for campervan conversions, often comes out cheaper than rival models.
- Cons: Not as popular among UK van converters as other models, and range anxiety might be an issue with electric options.
- VW Crafter
- Pros: More spacious than the Transporter, wider range of driver assist and safety features, and increased power options.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than other models in the VW lineup.
- Ford Transit
- Pros: Offers a lower price point compared to rival models like the Fiat Ducato, and a more car-like driving experience.
- Cons: Slightly spongier gear transmission, height might be more challenging to park in some areas.
- Mercedes Sprinter
- Pros: Known for reliability and rugged build, extras like autonomous emergency braking and lane assist make for improved campervan driving.
- Cons: Taller than other models, which can impact the driving experience, and a higher price tag than rivals.
Always take the time to research and test drive various options to determine which base vehicle best suits your lifestyle, budget, and conversion requirements. Happy camping!
[1] "Campervan Base Vehicles: The Ford Transit Custom – Pros and Cons," Caravanning and Motorhoming, URL
[2] "Renault Trafic 2020 Campervan Conversion – The Best Affordable European Campervan," Motor Homes and Outdoor Living, URL
[3] "Fiat Ducato – Is It the Best Campervan Base Vehicle?" Campers and Motorhomes, URL
[4] "VW Crafter vs. Mercedes Sprinter: Which Campervan Base Vehicle Is Right For You?" Motorhome Habitat, URL
[5] "Winnebago Revel Review: Ultimate Off-Grid 4x4 Campervan," Motor Caravans, URL
- Embarking on a road trip in a campervan is an exciting opportunity to create lasting memories, and the right base vehicle can significantly enhance the travel experience.
- The VW Transporter T7, with its iconic design and versatile engine options, stands out as a popular choice for people seeking a comfortable and enjoyable campervan journey.
- Alternatively, the Ford Transit Custom offers more interior space due to its boxy design and is a preferred option among tradespeople, but its limited automatic gearbox options may be a drawback for some.
- If ease of conversion and more interior space are prioritized, the Fiat Ducato, with its square shape and flexible fuselage, is a strong contender, despite production delays due to the pandemic.
- The Peugeot Boxer provides an affordable base vehicle option for motorhome conversions, but it comes with limited automatic gearbox options compared to the Fiat Ducato.
- For budget-friendly campervan conversions, the Citroën Relay offers a cost-effective choice, although it might face range anxiety issues with electric options.
- If a spacious interior and increased power options are key requirements, the VW Crafter, despite being more expensive than other models in the VW lineup, may be the ideal base vehicle choice for an adventure-filled holiday.
