Owner guides
Best campervan models UK: complete guide & reviews
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Let’s take a look at some of the best campervan models in the UK for life on the road!
Here at Camplify, we have many campervan models to choose from, so we have seen a lot of campervans and camperizations. In this list, we have chosen some of the best UK campervan models you can find nowadays.
The best thing is that if you are looking for inspiration, you can hire these vans at Camplify UK and experience how it feels to spend a few days or weeks in there.
Best Retro Campervan
VW Kombi:
Buy used for: £20,000 - £30,000
When it comes to bringing romantic daydreams of Hollywood-worthy road trips to life, retro VW campervans like the iconic Volkswagen Kombi (or VW Type 2) simply can’t be beaten. And it’s not just a pretty face, either.
Perfect for pairs and lone explorers alike , Kombis fit comfortably in any parking space, while still delivering a double bed, kitchenette and smart storage solutions. Some are even complete with an extra row of seats, which can be removed and sold second-hand for up to £400!
Good thing, too, as buying a Kombi in good condition will set you back quite a bit - unsurprisingly, its timeless style and star-studded popularity have the price tag to match. Lastly, bare in mind that vintage models are best suited to shorter, gentler adventures. Running on an often underpowered petrol engine, this vehicle is also vulnerable to rusting so needs to be handled with care.
Overall, this beauty of a campervan is ideal for anyone wishing to take things easy on a photogenic getaway (and who doesn’t mind giving it serious TLC in between).
Pros
A true classic
Compact design
Cons
Expensive to buy and maintain
Slower speeds with poor fuel economy
Difficult to find vans in excellent running condition
Rust, rust, rust
Great for
Couples and solo travellers on snap-happy weekends away
Best Camper Van For Unwavering Reliability
VW Transporter
Buy used for: £10,000 - £25,000
Easily Volkswagen’s most popular commercial model , the Transporter is a tried and tested camper van amongst van lifers far and wide.
A true all-rounder, this vehicle is built to last, making it the best caravan for everyday use. Developed over decades, its solid build, smart design and leading safety credentials mean you can enjoy the longest of road trips. Thanks to well-galvanised bodies, strong engines and heavy-duty mechanicals, the only worry you’ll have is which viewpoint to stop at!
What’s more, the Transporter is big enough to enjoy a roomy living space yet small enough to drive with pleasure - its engineers have made the extra effort to create a comfortable ride that minimises vibrations.
With its winning blend of style and practicality, the VW Transporter is a top contender for your van life experience. The only downside for buyers is its relatively high asking price. That said, this durable workhorse holds value extremely well and won’t let you down on the road.
Pros
Stands the test of time
Spacious interior
Good fuel economy
Sophisticated safety systems
Strong resale value
Cons
More expensive than competitors
Great for
Families and couples on extended road trips
Best For Easy Drives
Mercedes Sprinter
Buy used for: £10,000 - £20,000
Hire this Mercedes Sprinter on Camplify
A staple in the van life community, the Mercedes Sprinter is a brilliant leisure vehicle with tons of space, durability and configurations. But as its name suggests, the Sprinter shines most when you hit the gas.
Oh, what a breeze it is to drive! Although a standard 2WD system is usual, you can also opt for 4WD. Whether you’re dreaming of a wild journey over rough terrain or a countryside escape down rural lanes, its dependable 4WD system will make it happen. To top if off, recent models are complete with an electronic steering system, which can transform your driving experience - think graceful curves and tight turns.
Having been on the scene for years, buyers can find older Sprinter models for a pretty fair price. And if you’re planning to fit it out yourself, online layout guides and conversion advice can be found at the click of a button, saving valuable time and money on your build.
However, you will need to set aside some extra funds for regular maintenance and future repairs - its parts are exclusively owned by Mercedes, so most issues will have to be fixed at a dealership. As a result, they can charge a lot more than your local mechanic.
Pros
Conversion guides are widely available
Lots of configurations (including 4WD availability)
Great fuel economy on a diesel engine
Plenty of room inside
Cons
Needs a good bit of maintenance
Mercedes' dealerships are often the only place you can take care of repairs
Such repairs can be very expensive
Great for:
Adventurers who want to explore off the beaten track
Best Value Campervan
Ford Transit
Buy used for: £5,000 - £18,000
All in all, the Ford Transit is an affordable campervan that doesn’t compromise on quality.
Surprisingly, this comfortable, well-performing campervan can be hired and bought for less than its smaller alternatives. Perhaps it’s the absence of 4WD or the lack of conversion tips and tricks online. Whatever the reason, we think this is the best family camper van, and it really is a bargain.
Perfect for a half-term holiday , it’s slightly larger and significantly taller than other campervans - trust us when we say that extra space goes a long way on family road trips. With enough berths, storage and room to relax, your whole troop can enjoy the ride in peace!
Ford Transit is one of the best vans for camper conversion, its square cabin makes the measuring and fitting process much easier. Not to mention the extra space you’ll save around the corners while framing! Finally, the Transit has relatively cheap parts that can be serviced by any standard mechanic for a fair price. Where do we sign?
Pros
Impressive fuel economy
Newer models are far cheaper than Sprinter counterparts
Mechanic-friendly repairs and cheap parts
Square cabin makes for a simpler conversion process
Cons
Challenging to find conversion tips and layout guides
Great for
Family holidays who want to explore off the beaten track
Best For Bonus Features
Mazda Bongo
Buy used for: £5,000 - £15,000
Hire this Mazda Bongo on Camplify
Also manufactured as the Ford Freda, the Mazda Bongo has a different trim but is mechanically identical. Bongos were made for the Japanese domestic market between 1995 and 2006, with some being exported to the UK during that time. There is now a strong network all over the UK.
This van is small but mighty , with a lot more internal space and high tech features than initially meet the eye. You’ll be in your element if you’re a sucker for bonus features, with many Bongos boasting an elevating roof, electronic blinds and auto-close sliding doors. And the Bongo treats its drivers as well as its passengers, with 2WD and 4WD options making for an effortless journey on every road.
Another perk of going for this cosy little campervan is its strong fan base - a tight-knit community of Bongo lovers across the UK. help and support each other with queries, issues and recommendations through websites and forums such as Bongo Fury. The beloved Bongo’s only significant downfall is its poor fuel economy, which averages at about 26MPG.
Pros
Roomy and comfy
Extra touches that make a big difference
Pleasure to drive
Strong support network of fellow Bongo owners
Cons
Poor fuel economy
Great for ****
Families and couples who want to take their time over a shorter distance
Have You Spotted Your Favourite Van?
Hire the campervan model that’s caught your eye on Camplify today or find and hire a van near your home. Whether you want to compare performance, features and layouts before you buy or simply get a taste of # VanLife on your next getaway, we’ve got you covered. Check all our advantages for camper van hire.
With our extensive range of privately-owned rentals, you can book the best campervan for your unique adventure! Sing up now for free and enjoy being part of our van life community.