Is it cheaper to convert a van into a campervan?
Determining which option is cheaper—buying a ready-made camper or converting a van—depends on several factors: Budget: If you have a limited budget, a DIY conversion may be more cost-effective in the long run. However, it requires upfront investments in materials and tools. The short answer is yes! VW campervans are widely regarded as one of the most future-proof vehicles in the recreational market. Thanks to their build quality, brand reputation, and ongoing demand, they consistently hold more of their value than standard vehicles or lower-end conversions.What is the most reliable van for camper conversion? The Mercedes Sprinter and VW Transporter are highly reliable, offering long lifespans and easy maintenance. Both are great for full-time van life or long-term travel. Read out complete Van Buying Guide for a full range of LG vehicles.The Sprinter van arguably has the best looking exterior for a stock cargo van and most options for aftermarket parts from companies like Aluminess which specializes in van conversion accessories. Overall the Sprinter van conversion is the most popular option for most van lifers and for good reason.While it’s certainly not going to be cheap, converting a campervan can bring some significant savings over buying one off-the-peg – though you have to be careful with your budgeting.Strong Resale Value: Better Than Most Cars While the average new car loses around 40–60% of its value within the first three years, a well-maintained VW campervan conversion can retain 70–80% of its original value—sometimes even maintaining or appreciating if it’s a high-quality conversion.
When did they stop making VW campers?
Production of Volkswagen camper variants continued until 2003 and was based on the Kombi, then the Vanagon, then the LT Mk 1, then the Transporter. The Best VW Transporter Full Conversions We Saw in 2025. If there’s one van that continues to dominate the campervan conversion scene, it’s the VW Transporter. It’s the perfect balance of size, reliability, and customisation potential, which is why they are one of the best vans to convert to a camper.Trust the Volkswagen Transporter Our third brand of choice is another one with a record for reliability and high performance. Transporters often build up very high mileage and they do so without complaining, just as you’d expect from the spiritual successor to the incredibly long-lasting original VW campervan.
How much is my VW campervan worth for free?
Getting a free campervan valuation with Carwow is a easy. Just provide us with your campervan’s registration, mileage, and your email address. We’ll give you an estimate of your campervan’s value – you’re in control, and there’s no obligation to sell. This is an important question to ask when you’re considering investing in a campervan. Well, the short answer is… yes! A VW converted campervan is a wise, future-proof investment that will hold its value.It’s cost-effective in the long run While the initial purchase price may be a significant sum of money, owning a campervan can be more economical over time. Frequent campervan trips can accumulate hefty hire fees when hiring, and each hire often comes with additional costs like insurance and mileage charges.
Do VW campers hold their value?
Volkswagen campervans are known to retain their value better than most other vehicles. According to The Money Calculator, a well-maintained VW camper typically loses only around 12–15% of its original value over the first three years. By comparison, the average UK car depreciates by 40–60% over the same period. In short, campervans tend to hold their value very well. However, it’s no secret that all brand new campervans, like all brand new vehicles, will depreciate in the first year after being sold. Unlike other vehicles, campervans (condition dependent) tend to retain a good proportion of their value when being resold.The average lifespan of a class B camper van is between 10 and 30 years. This is such a big range because the use cases of every owner can vary quite a bit. Some people only use their camper van here and there when they go on a long trip, and their camper van will last closer to 30 years.Understanding the Lifespan of a Campervan The average lifespan of a well-maintained campervan usually ranges somewhere between 10 and 20 years. Some models last even longer, depending on various factors such as make and model, how often it’s driven and the environmental conditions it is exposed to.How Many Miles Do Camper Vans Last? The average camper van lasts for about 20 years and about 200,000 miles before you’ll need to replace it.When considering the life expectancy of motorhomes and campervans, it is important to take into account factors such as usage, maintenance, climate, and quality. On average, a well-maintained vehicle can last anywhere between 10 and 30 years.