Considerations To Make When Purchasing A Campervan

Purchasing a campervan will be one of the best decisions you ever make. Just think of the endless hours you and your family will spend discovering amazing new locations in your home on wheels.

Having said that, when it comes to getting maximum enjoyment out of your campervan, it’s important to do some research before you jump right in.  That way, you can be sure you end up with a van that meets all your requirements and provides everything you need from a motorhome.

So buckle up as we take you on a journey through some of the main considerations you need to make when purchasing a motorhome or campervan conversion.

Size Of Van

First and foremost, you’re going to need a van that’s big enough for you and all the family.  It’s no use opting for a small van for a family of six as the lack of space is sure to affect your enjoyment. Similarly, you might not need a massive vehicle if there’s just you and the dog! 

So regardless of whether you’re buying a pre-built van or you’re purchasing a regular vehicle and getting it renovated, it’s wise to opt for a van that’s the right size for your needs.

Budget

Along with the size of your vehicle, another primary consideration should be the cost. If you’ve ever looked at how much campervans are, you might have noticed just how wildly the cost can differ.

Everything from the size, model and specifications of your vehicle can influence the cost, so it’s a good idea to weigh up what you need from your van and set out your budget. 

If you’re looking for a conversion, we have a range of packages available. Each of them is customisable, so we can work with your budget to create the van you need and ensure you don't overpay.

Mileage

If you’re buying a second-hand motorhome or you’re purchasing a standard van with the intention of having it refurbed, you’ll need to take a good look at the vehicle to make sure it’s in good condition.

Check the mileage and take a look at the engine to make sure there are no mechanical faults. You should also take the van for a test drive to make sure it drives well, and take a thorough look inside to get a good picture of the van’s condition.

 Many used vans have clocked a lot of miles and they may show some signs of wear and tear. This shouldn’t be a deal breaker, but make sure you don't overpay and negotiate accordingly.

Terrain

Have you given any thought to where you want to take your van? If not then you should! That’s because ensuring that a campervan is well-equipped to navigate the right terrain is of paramount importance – unless you want to get stranded in the wilderness, that is! 

Depending on where you plan to travel, you may come across a wide range of landscapes during your road trips. From rugged mountains to sandy beaches, your vehicle will be put to the test, so you’ll need to make sure it’s up to the job.

Factors such as ground clearance, four-wheel-drive capabilities, and having a sturdy suspension system can all play a crucial role in determining a vehicle's suitability for different terrains. So consider where you plan to go and ask yourself whether the van you’re looking to purchase is fit for purpose.

Specifications

You’ll need to put some serious thought into your specifications as these can make all the difference to your time in your van. If you plan to use your van as a motorhome to enjoy camping weekends with your family then you’ll need somewhere for everyone to sleep so sufficient beds are a  necessity. 

You’ll probably want to cook up some tasty meals and sit down to enjoy them, too, so a good oven and some seating would help make your van feel like a home away from home.

Alternatively, some may need something more basic – in the end, it all comes down to personal preference. So have a good think about what you need from your van and ensure your van’ specs are up to the task.

Fuel Economy

The price of fuel has been extremely volatile over the last couple of years, and while the cost of petrol and diesel is cheaper than it was a year or so ago, filling up your tank is still an expensive endeavour!

This is why you’ll want a van that’s as economical on fuel as possible. Most vans are heavy vehicles with large engines which require a lot of fuel to power, especially if you’re travelling long distances to destinations on the other side of the country.

So when you’re buying a van, research the model and check how economical it is on fuel. Also, ask the owner how the vehicle is performing as purchasing a van that uses less fuel will see you make some serious savings in the long run.

 Research Sellers

If you’re purchasing your van from a dealership then be sure to do your due diligence. Countless people purchase vans, only to discover they’ve been sold a shoddy vehicle that’s in dire need of repair. 

If you can, secure a warranty with your van or at the very least, check service and repair records. You should also find out how much MOT the vehicle has.

Likewise, if you’re opting for a campervan refurb, be sure to check the previous work of the company you’re looking to hire. While most companies claim they can create your dream van, not all have the skills to deliver on their promises.

If you’re looking for a reliable, reputable company, we’ve worked on countless campervan conversions and we have many happy customers. So to get the wheels in motion on your campervan project, speak to us today and we’ll go through the options available.