So who owns a Camper Van? Original VW Camper or conversions.

[F4celess]

Looking for inspiration. Anyone done or doing this? Which Vans make the best platform for a conversation? Considerations. Do's/Don'ts.

Could make a decent winter project, prior to next summer. Plus a big "step up" from lugging a tent around in the boot of the car!

Don't have the workshop facilities (or time) to restore a rusted out VW Camper. Plus not paying £30K+ for one somebody else has already "restored".
So the latter, Van conversation, is the favourite. Where I can design it to my own requirements / plus a little flair.

[Oldgit]

Don't even think about buying one of these things--they are crap, don't go much over 50mph and sporadically burst into flames when the overheat--they are absolute rubbish, buy a modern one preferably Japanese import--much more reliable and don't wander all over the road.

[Robbie8666]

depends what your budget is but living in Cornwall I've seen all styles of "transit" vans made into campers, from basic (boarded out with a a single/ bunkbed) along the right hand side sink cooker left side, to elaborate affairs that have also got a roller canopy above side door that have zipped down to make an awning porch.

admittedly there are lots of VW T5's but have seen Hyundai vans done up just as good..
see lots of old VW either splitty's & early bays crawling along usually in convoys of 3 or 4 or broken down at side of A30 (bit like scooters!)

as for what van.. do you want to stand up in it or stoop! bit like tents .. I have heard Merc sprinters are heavy to start with!   

so its back to budget!!

[Hamisato]

I have benefited from your information a lot.

[taylor]

get a transit.  van ?    I have a static caravan which is great, everyone to there own.

[Frosties]

I reckon any van will suffice as long as you plan what you want carefully.


Google  diy campervan conversions and check out the sites.


Good luck fella

[DILLIGAFF]

Have a look at one of these...............  https://www.gumtree.com/p/campervans-motorhomes/mazda-bongo-2.5-td-4-berth-camper-4-wd-/1265231686

I should imagine it would be a good way to get going.

[F4celess]

Thank you all for the very informative feedback.

Will look to pickup a van that's as new as possible. Also as Oldgit mentions, there's some interesting Japanese options / that can convert to Campers nicely. I've seen a few MPV's that would do quite nicely, being imports, you don't see alot on our UK roads (such as the 'Nissan El Grande' - that look a little unique, from the usual favourites).

Will certainly do this in stages. Strip. Insulate with new "walls" (Ply sides/floor). Then build up the 'accommodation' to suit.
Transporting a young family, I'd need to ensure a metal framed seat can be fitted + seatbelts. Seated securely, for potentially long rides on the road.

Was hoping to see a load of projects others have already done, however it appears Yamaha bike owners and Campers, don't mix (much).
Or perhaps ppl are reluctant to flaunt their investments over a "public" internet forum. Understood. 

Again many thanks.

[celticdog]

The VW transporter panel van makes a good for vehicle for camper conversion if you're handy with the tools.

[Kamikaze]

i've a 76 vw camper.

unless you love oldschool vw's dont. (i've had jettas, have a mk1 golf gti and getting a beetle soon)
you'll have your head fried and your wallet empty.

but they arent nearly as unreliable as people might think.
and well looked after will happily plod along for years trouble free.

anything modern will be much better if you just want a camper rather than wanting an old vw.

[mr self destruct]

i've a 76 vw camper.

unless you love oldschool vw's dont. (i've had jettas, have a mk1 golf gti and getting a beetle soon)
you'll have your head fried and your wallet empty.

but they arent nearly as unreliable as people might think.
and well looked after will happily plod along for years trouble free.

anything modern will be much better if you just want a camper rather than wanting an old vw.

Pretty much what I was going to say, having spunked all my money for the last 20 years on them. There are much better value for money campers out there, so decide if it's vws or camping you like before buying a vw camper.