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Recommended Vans To Convert

Find the perfect van for your camper conversion with our expert advice and personal recommendations.

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What to Check When Buying A Van For Conversion

Choosing the right van is the first step in your camper van journey. To ensure your van is suitable for conversion and roadworthy, here are the key factors to check:

  • Mileage: Look for vans with less than 160,000 miles on the clock for reliability and longevity.
  • Bodywork: Inspect the body for dents, scratches, and signs of rust, especially around the wheel arches and undercarriage.
  • Doors and Locks: Ensure all doors open, close, and lock securely.
  • Flooring: Check for any movement or warping in the floor, as this could indicate underlying issues.
  • Water Damage: Look for signs of damp or leaks, particularly in the roof lining and around windows.
  • Mechanical Soundness: Take the van for a test drive and listen for any unusual noises from the engine, suspension, or brakes.
  • Dealer Assurance: Where possible, buy from an authorised dealer to benefit from a warranty and peace of mind.
  • Expand Your Search: Don’t limit yourself to local options – England has a larger market, so sourcing a van there might offer more choices.

Keep reading for suggestions on how to choose the right van to suit your lifestyle.

Ducato Elddis Evolution CU20

Choosing a Van to Suit Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle will play a big role in selecting the best van for conversion. Consider these factors:

 

  • Number of Sleepers: Do you need sleeping space for one, two, or a whole family?
  • Trip Length: Is the van primarily for weekend getaways, or do you plan to embark on long-term adventures?
  • Campsites vs. Wild Camping: Will you park at campsites with facilities, or do you need features like water tanks and off-grid power for wild camping?
  • Storage Needs: Consider any hobbies that require extra space, such as cycling, kayaking, or climbing.
  • Travelling with Pets: Make sure there’s enough space and ventilation for any furry companions.

Our Favourite Vans For Conversion

While we can convert anything, from ambulances to taxi, these vans are our personal favourites for first-time conversions due to their practicality and popularity.

Peugeot Boxer

Pros:
Spacious interior, offering lots of room for creative layouts.
Boxy design makes it easier to install features like cabinets and beds.
Reliable and economical engine options.
Widely available, making it a budget-friendly choice.
Cons:
Exterior styling is plain compared to other options.
Lower resale value than some competitors.

Citroen Relay

Pros:
Almost identical to the Peugeot Boxer, with interchangeable parts.
Known for its fuel efficiency and affordability.
Wide rear door access makes loading and customisation easier.
Cons:
Slightly less refined interior compared to premium brands.
Can be prone to electrical issues if not well-maintained.
Mercedes Sprinter Van

Mercedes Sprinter

Pros:
Excellent reliability and build quality.
Superior driving experience with advanced safety features.
Holds its value well over time.
Ideal for large, luxury camper conversions.
Cons:
Higher purchase price compared to other models.
Maintenance and parts can be more expensive.

Volkswagen Transporter

Pros:
Compact and easy to drive, even in urban areas.
Iconic camper van heritage, with strong aftermarket support for parts and accessories.
Great fuel economy and stylish design.
Cons:
Limited space compared to larger vans, which may require compromises on features.
Can be pricey, especially for newer models.

Need Help Choosing The Right Van?

At Demon Lesiure, we’re happy to help at any stage of your camper van journey. Whether you’re unsure which van suits your needs or want advice on what to look for, give us a call. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way.

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