The Best UK Vans for Camping Adventures
Camping and the great outdoors - they're part of the British DNA. And in recent years, the rise of 'vanlife' has taken this love affair to new levels. The freedom of the open road, the ability to sleep under the stars, and the joy of waking up to a new view each morning – it’s a tantalising prospect. But to fully embrace this lifestyle, you need the right van. Perhaps one of these?
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1
A list of the best camping vans would be incomplete without mentioning the Volkswagen Transporter T6.1. This iconic van, known as the camper's choice for decades, continues to impress with it's latest incarnation. Combining style, reliability, and a highly adaptable interior, the Transporter can easily be converted into a comfortable camper with room for a bed, kitchenette, and storage. The Highline model, complete with cruise control, parking sensors and heated windscreen, adds a touch of luxury to your camping experience.
Ford Transit Custom
Ford Transit Custom is a staple on the UK roads, and for good reason. It's robust, reliable, and offers a generous load space that can be converted into a cosy mobile home. The Transit Custom also stands out for it's driving experience – it's surprisingly car-like, making it a good choice for those new to van driving. The Limited trim offers a host of comforts such as air conditioning, heated seats, and a touchscreen infotainment system, ensuring your journeys are as enjoyable as your destinations.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
If space is a priority, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is hard to beat. It's one of the largest vans available in the UK, offering plenty of room for a full camper conversion including a bed, kitchen, seating area, and even a bathroom if you wish. The Sprinter also boasts impressive driving dynamics, advanced safety features, and a high-quality interior. it's fuel-efficient diesel engines will help keep running costs in check during your adventures.
Peugeot Boxer
The Peugeot Boxer is another large van that's well-suited to camping conversions. It offers a vast interior space, a robust build, and a competitive price tag, making it a favourite among budget-conscious campers. The Boxer is also available in a variety of lengths and heights, allowing you to choose the model that best suits your camping needs. Plus, it's one of the more fuel-efficient large vans on the market, helping you to travel further for less.
Vauxhall Vivaro
The Vauxhall Vivaro is a medium-sized van that strikes a balance between manoeuvrability and space. It's compact dimensions make it easier to drive and park, yet it still offers ample room for a basic camper conversion. The Vivaro also stands out for it's efficient engines and smooth ride quality. If you're looking for a versatile, easy-to-drive camper van, the Vivaro is a solid choice.
Renault Master
The Renault Master is another large van that’s ideal for those seeking more space. With it's boxy shape and high roof, it provides plenty of room for a comfortable camper setup. It's also worth noting that the Master comes with a range of efficient diesel engines and a comfortable cab. The Master Z.E., an electric version, is an option for the eco-conscious camper, but do consider it's limited range if planning longer trips.
Nissan NV200
If you're after a small camper van, the Nissan NV200 is worth a look. This compact van is easy to drive and park, yet with clever design, it can still accommodate a bed and a small kitchen. It'salso remarkably efficient, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious adventurers. The NV200 might be small, but it’s a mighty option for the minimalist camper.
The Fiat Ducato is another large van that's a popular choice for camper conversions. It's boxy shape and spacious interior make it ideal for creating a comfortable living space. The Ducato also stands out for it's wide range of body options, efficient engines, and strong payload capacity. It's a robust and reliable choice that won’t let you down on the road.
Citroen Relay
The Citroen Relay is essentially a rebadged version of the Peugeot Boxer and shares many of it's positive attributes. It's spacious, reliable, and competitively priced. The Relay also boasts a comfortable cab and a robust suspension, ensuring a smooth ride on both motorways and country roads.
Vauxhall Movano
The Vauxhall Movano, a cousin of the Renault Master, is another great choice for camping adventures. It offers a large and versatile space, a comfortable driving experience, and a range of efficient engines. With it's high payload capacity and wide range of sizes, the Movano caters to a variety of camping needs.
Making Your Choice
Choosing the right van for your camping adventures involves considering several factors. Size is important – whilst a larger van provides more living space, a smaller van is easier to drive and more fuel-efficient. Your budget is another key consideration, both in terms of the initial purchase price and ongoing running costs. It's also worth considering the van's reliability, comfort, and safety features.
Beyond these practical considerations, think about what kind of camping experience you want. If you plan to stay at established campsites, a larger van with all the comforts of home could be perfect. But if you want to go wild camping in remote locations, a smaller, more manoeuvrable van might be a better choice.
Remember that converting a van into a camper can be a significant project, requiring time, money, and potentially professional help. However, the reward is a custom-built home on wheels that's perfectly suited to your camping adventures.