From Dream to Reality – Unleash Your Inner Car Dealer

1. Tips for Negotiating Price and Getting the Best Value

Buying a campervan isn’t just about finding the perfect vehicle; it’s also about securing the perfect price. Negotiation might feel daunting, but with a few smart strategies, you can save a significant amount and perhaps gain a few extras that make a real difference.

2. Understand the Mechanical Basics of a Campervan

While it’s easy to daydream about epic road trips, don’t forget that your campervan needs to get you from point A to point B reliably. Understanding its mechanical features can help you avoid expensive surprises later and ensure the van is truly road-ready.

3. For Experienced Buyers: Unearthing Hidden Gems

If you’ve already dipped your toes into campervan buying and converting, it’s time to level up. The goal now is to find a vehicle that not only runs smoothly but is also perfectly suited for conversion into your ideal rolling home.

This part of the series dives deeper into advanced aspects of campervan purchasing. Whether you’re shopping for your very first campervan or refining your buying strategy, these tips will help you make informed decisions.

Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Campervan

Choosing the right campervan is one of the most crucial decisions for hitting the road and living your vanlife dream. It’s not just about the brand or model but also practical aspects like size, height, width, and other factors that will make your life on the road more comfortable.

Length – How much space do you really need?

The length of your campervan affects both your interior layout and where you can park. A 5.4-meter van fits in a standard parking spot, while anything 6 meters or longer might require special parking.

Our first van was 5.4 meters long, making parking a breeze. The downside? No space for a bathroom! We solved this by stashing a toilet under a seat.

Now, with our 6.37-meter van, we enjoy extra living space. It still fits in standard parking spots but has overhangs at the front and rear, so we have to be mindful of traffic and cycle lanes.

If a bathroom is a priority, consider a van at least 6 meters long. If easy parking is more important, a shorter model might suit you better. Also, note that ferries and toll roads often charge higher fees for vehicles over 6 meters.

Height – Do you want to stand up inside?

A critical question is whether you want to stand upright in your campervan. We recommend choosing a van tall enough for comfortable standing, especially if you plan to cook or spend extended time indoors.

Lower vans may have an advantage in accessing height-restricted parking areas. However, if your van is H2 height or higher, these limitations won’t matter as much since many spots will still be off-limits.

Width – How wide should your campervan be?

Campervan widths vary, which can impact your interior layout—especially if you want to sleep sideways.

For example, Sprinter and Crafter models are often narrower than Boxer, Ducato, or Jumper. Our previous van, a Nissan Interstar, had 181 cm between the walls. Our current Boxer offers 185 cm, making it easier to insulate and fit a bed without awkward cutouts.

Windows or No Windows?

Windows can transform your campervan, providing natural light and scenic views. However, they reduce insulation, increase visibility for would-be thieves, and make it obvious that it’s a campervan.

In our first van, we skipped windows to minimize theft risk and enable stealth camping. In our current van, we opted for windows to enjoy the view—even in winter.

Mileage and Service History – Choosing a Reliable Campervan

It’s crucial to select a campervan with a solid service history and minimal rust. Pay close attention to key components like the clutch, gearbox, drive shafts, and suspension. We often prefer vans with higher mileage but a newer production year since older vehicles may have more worn-out parts, leading to frequent issues.

Insurance and Taxes – The Costs of Keeping Your Campervan on the Road

Insurance premiums and taxes can vary significantly depending on the make, model, and year of your van. Always research these costs in advance to understand the overall expense of owning your campervan.

Emissions and Euro Standards – What to Know Before Buying

When purchasing a campervan, it’s essential to evaluate its emissions category and Euro standard, as these influence where you can travel across Europe. Many countries and cities have introduced environmental zones, or “green zones,” restricting access for vehicles that fail to meet specific emissions criteria.

Diesel vehicles, in particular, often emit higher levels of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulates, making them more prone to restrictions.

• Euro Standards: These range from Euro 1 to Euro 6, with Euro 6 being the most stringent. Vehicles meeting Euro 6 standards produce lower emissions and are typically allowed in more areas without restrictions.

• Older Models: Vehicles rated Euro 4 or lower may face significant limitations or require registration before entering specific cities. Non-compliance can result in fines or additional fees.
  

You can easily verify your van’s Euro classification on platforms like car.info. Generally, vans manufactured after 2015 are Euro 6 compliant, but it’s always wise to double-check.

For efficient travel planning, consider using apps that display current restrictions in various cities and countries. These apps help you stay informed and avoid unexpected fees or fines. Visit our Apps Section to discover recommended tools for your journey!

Rust – Avoiding the Rust Traps

Rust is a serious concern for campervans, especially if it affects the vehicle's structural components underneath. While minor surface rust is typical, extensive rust can be costly—or even impossible—to repair effectively.

Fuel Type and Consumption – Diesel or Petrol?

Most large vans run on diesel, but in some countries, petrol might be a better choice. Diesel vehicles typically incur higher taxes, especially those manufactured after June 2018. Consider where you’ll primarily drive and compare the fuel consumption of different models before deciding.

Negotiating Tips – How to Get the Best Deal on Your Campervan

1._Do Your Research Before Negotiating

Understand the market value of similar models and production years before engaging in negotiations. Use platforms like Blocket or BytBil to compare prices and read reviews about common issues for the model you’re considering.

2._Bring a Knowledgeable Friend

If you’re not mechanically inclined, bring someone with expertise in vehicles. A trusted friend can help identify potential problems and assess whether the price reflects the van’s condition. Having a second opinion ensures you stay objective and avoid falling for surface-level appeal.

Skip the honeymoon and bring an unbiased friend/partner and see the item for what it really is. Personally, the golden rule would be to always bring and discuss with an acquaintance. Experts or not, it's easy to get blindsided and when that happens, it's good to have an unbiased friend to help you see beyond "simple beauty flaws."

3._Be Flexible on Model Year, But Not on Condition

While newer models may seem appealing, well-maintained older vans can offer better value. Focus on vehicles with comprehensive maintenance records over flashy aesthetics.

4._Investigate the Van’s Usage History

Ask about the van’s previous usage—whether it was primarily driven in urban areas or on highways. Vans used for heavy-duty work may have experienced more wear and tear.

5._Time Your Purchase Wisely

Dealers often aim to hit monthly targets or clear old stock before new inventory arrives. Shopping at the end of the month or season could increase your chances of securing a better deal.

1._Ownership and Service History

Review the vehicle’s ownership and maintenance records. A detailed service history ensures the van has been regularly maintained and reduces the risk of hidden issues. Missing documentation may indicate potential problems.

This reduces the risk of unexpected problems and can help you negotiate the price. Ask for documentation and make sure all major repairs and maintenance are included. If something is missing, be alert – it could be a warning sign.

2._Engine and Transmission

A strong, reliable engine is essential for long-distance travel. Diesel engines are popular for their fuel efficiency, but ensure the engine and transmission are in good condition with smooth gear changes.

3._Brakes and Suspension

Campervans are heavier than standard cars, so brakes and suspension systems must handle the added weight. Test the brakes to ensure they’re responsive, and check if the suspension can accommodate additional weight without feeling unstable.

4._Chassis and Undercarriage

Rust is especially concerning in older vans or those exposed to cold climates. Inspect the undercarriage and chassis for signs of corrosion. If you’re unsure, tap the affected areas to listen for differences in sound or use a magnet to check for rust damage.

Mechanical Considerations – Ensuring Your Campervan Is Roadworthy

Once you have the price and sell strategy down, the next step is to ensure the camper van is mechanically sound. Here are some specific things to keep in mind:

1._Choose a High-Roof Van to Maximize Space

If you’re planning to install a kitchen or sleeping area, a high roof (H2 or H3) is often preferable. Not only does it allow you to stand up inside, but it also provides extra storage and space for equipment.

However, there’s a downside: in many European countries, high-roof vehicles can make parking more challenging. Increasingly, countries direct motorhomes and larger campervans to designated camping areas, and outdoor parking often has height restrictions between 1.9 m and 2.2 m. Opting for a lower campervan can make parking easier and reduce ferry or bridge tolls.

2._Consider the Van's Gross Weight and Load Capacity

When designing your own campervan, it’s easy to get excited about all the features and accessories you want to include, but don’t forget the vehicle’s weight. An overloaded van not only wears out mechanical components faster but can also be unsafe to drive.

Weight limits affect both safety and fuel efficiency. Make sure your chosen van has a high enough load capacity to accommodate your conversion ideas and gear without exceeding legal limits.

3._Focus on Insulation and Ventilation

Temperature control in a van is crucial, whether you’re dealing with winter’s chill or summer’s heat. Quality insulation and ventilation are key to comfort.

Invest in high-performance materials like XPS foam insulation to stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Don’t forget ventilation—preventing moisture and mold is essential. A roof vent or fan can be a lifesaver on hot days and helps avoid condensation while cooking or sleeping.

4._Optimize Your Electronics and Energy Use

Thinking about upgrading to a solar power system? If you haven’t already calculated your estimated electricity consumption, now’s the time to do it.

Consider installing high-quality solar panels and a battery management system to keep all your devices charged—from the fridge to your laptop. LED lighting can save energy, while a reliable inverter powers your electronics. You might also want to invest in a diesel heater to reduce reliance on electricity for warmth during chilly nights. Options range from premium brands to budget-friendly alternatives available on Amazon.

For Experienced Buyers: Tips for Vans to Convert

If you’re already familiar with purchasing and building campervans, you might want to delve deeper and focus on specific aspects of the vehicle that make it optimal for conversion. Here are some tips to keep in mind: