From Dream to Reality: Tips & Tricks for Buying Your Campervan

1. _Tips till förstagångsköparen

Om det här är första gången du köper en skåpbil för att bygga om till en campervan, kan processen kännas lite överväldigande. För att underlätta ditt köp har vi samlat några snabba tips som hjälper dig att komma igång.

2. _Vilken typ av bil passar dig bäst?

Om du har erfarenhet av bilköp och är redo att ta steget till campervan-konvertering, behöver du en mer nyanserad strategi. Här är några tips som kan vara värdefulla för att hjälpa dig på vägen.

3. _Avancerade tips – För rutinerade konverterare

För dig som är erfaren köpare och konverterare finns det mer specifika och tekniska faktorer att ta hänsyn till. Här är några tips för att få ut det mesta av din campervan och konverteringsprocess.

6._Check the Engine’s Condition

When buying a used van, inspecting the engine is critical. Ask for the vehicle’s service history, and if possible, have a mechanic inspect it before purchase. A well-maintained engine ensures smooth operation and fewer problems on the road.

Pro Tip: Check the oil level and colour. Thick, black oil may indicate poor maintenance. The engine should run smoothly without knocking or rattling noises.

Tips for First-Time Buyers

If it’s your first time buying a van for conversion, the process can feel a little overwhelming. To help you get started, here are some quick and practical tips.

1._Set a Budget and Stick to It

It’s easy to be tempted by large, fancy vans or extra features that catch your eye. But setting a budget early on and sticking to it is crucial. Remember to account not only for the cost of the van but also for tools and materials needed for the conversion. Unexpected expenses will likely arise during the build, so plan accordingly.

Pro Tip: Always set aside 15–20% of your budget for unforeseen costs, such as additional insulation, brake replacements, or new tyres.

2._New or Used Van?

A used van can be a cost-effective option, but it requires thorough research. Always check the van’s history by requesting service records and ownership details. Vans with multiple owners or unclear histories may be risky. Also, test drive the vehicle and pay attention to unusual noises from the engine.

Pro Tip: When buying a used van, inspect the tyre tread. In the UK, the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm.

3._Check the Roof Height

Roof height is especially important if you plan to spend a lot of time in your campervan or need to stand up comfortably. Vans come in various roof heights (H1, H2, H3), with H2 and H3 allowing you to stand upright, which is beneficial for cooking, changing, and overall comfort.

Pro Tip: Test the standing height inside the van before purchasing. If it’s too low, consider a model with a higher roof or look into aftermarket roof-raising options.

4._Inspect the Bodywork

A thorough inspection of the van’s body is essential, particularly for used vehicles. Rust is a common issue in older vans and can be costly to repair. Pay close attention to the undercarriage, door frames, and wheel arches, where rust tends to appear first.

Pro Tip: Use a magnet to check for filler used to cover rust. If the magnet doesn’t stick, it may indicate a repair job that could hide underlying issues.

5._Choose the Right Size

Selecting the right size van is one of the most important decisions. Smaller vans are easier to drive and park, while larger ones offer more interior space and layout options. Think carefully about your intended use—short trips or long-term living?

Pro Tip: Bring a tape measure to ensure there’s enough room for essentials like a bed, kitchen, and storage. Also, consider the weight the van can handle when fully loaded.

Mellannivå – För dig med viss erfarenhet

For those with some experience in buying vehicles, upgrading to a campervan requires a more refined approach. Here’s what to consider:

1._Choose the Right Fuel Type

Diesel vans are popular for campervans due to better torque and fuel efficiency on long trips. However, many cities across Europe now have restrictions on older diesel vehicles. If you plan to travel through urban areas, pay attention to local regulations.

Pro Tip: If in doubt, consider hybrid or fully electric vans. Though more expensive upfront, they’re ideal for emission-restricted zones and offer a more sustainable option.

2._Drivetrain and Terrain

If you plan to explore rural areas, unpaved roads, or nature trails, your van’s drivetrain is key. A 4WD van provides better control on tough terrain, while FWD is sufficient for most standard roads. Be mindful that older vehicles might lack modern safety features like ABS or power steering.

Pro Tip: Test the van on various surfaces to understand its handling. Keep in mind that 4WD vehicles typically require more maintenance and are costlier to repair.

3._Insulation and Heating

If you’ll be travelling in colder climates or year-round, insulation and a reliable heating system are essential. Without proper insulation, you’ll lose heat quickly and consume more energy. Diesel heaters or gas-powered heating systems are excellent options for winter trips.

Pro Tip: Insulate the floors, walls, and roof using materials like reflective foil or foam insulation to maximise efficiency.

4._Environmental zones and rules:

Many cities around the world are imposing strict regulations around older vehicles, especially diesel cars. If you plan to drive in or near big cities, check which regulations apply to emissions and environmental zones. In several countries in Europe, your car is automatically registered when entering an environmental zone, if your car does not meet the requirements it can lead to fines or that you cannot drive into certain areas. (Click here to see our App tips)

Tip: Check if the car has an environmental class that is allowed in the cities you plan to visit. See list further down on various European countries.

Advanced Tips for Seasoned Buyers and Converters

For experienced buyers, these advanced tips will help you fine-tune your purchase and conversion strategy.

1._Payload and Weight Capacity

Campervans can quickly become heavy with all the added installations and gear. Check the van’s payload and gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) to ensure it can handle the load without compromising performance or safety.

Pro Tip: Look for a van with a minimum payload capacity of 800 kg to accommodate essentials without exceeding limits.

2._Roof Ventilation Systems

Good ventilation is critical for airflow and preventing condensation, which can lead to mould and dampness. Installing a roof vent with a fan is a great way to keep the interior fresh and comfortable.

Pro Tip: Opt for a vent with dual functionality—capable of both extracting hot air and drawing in cool air. Don’t forget a mosquito net to keep the bugs out!

Part 4 – Mastering the Negotiation

The final part of this series will focus on negotiating your van purchase, from charming the seller to securing a great deal. Stay tuned as we guide you through the steps to become a campervan-buying expert!

Now we're going to prepare you to charm the seller, make smart choices, and maybe even get a better price than you thought possible.

These are the steps that will take you from beginner to campervan buying's next guru!