Many people fall into the mistake of looking at a nice van and then buying one without really considering the requirements they'll need. This is a huge mistake. It is important to first assess your requirements before you select the vehicle that you will convert to the camper.
Budget
How much can you invest or would you like to spend? It's the most vital and fundamental question. When it comes to building vans, budget is key. Without it the situation can quickly spiral out of control. It is not necessary to have a budget but it will act as a guiding force when deciding on the necessities vs desirable items to include in your van transformation process.
There are always bargains to be found but you won't take what you spend. The idea of putting $30,000 into a van with over 150,000 miles on it isn't making any sense, does it?
If you're considering a van build platform, be sure you understand what you're getting into. There's no formula that can tell you what amount of money should be allocated to the cost of the van. Visit Here is recommended to budget between $10,000 and $20,000 for conversion components.
Length and Height
These two aspects are often the main determining factors for the price of the van. These two elements are the most important determinants of almost every aspect of your van's design including the size and location to features like showers and seating. It is also influenced by the size of your vehicle and your comfort with driving it. Larger taller vehicles operate differently than some of the smaller vans.
Length
How long your van impacts turning radius. This could make it difficult to maneuver around tight spots such as campgrounds and parking lots. The length of the vehicle also influences breakover angle. This will be discussed in the off-road section below.
The length of the bed will determine its style and its orientation. Read our guide to camper van beds to get more information on things to take into consideration when planning your sleeping area. Overall van length will also decide things such as storage space, seating capacity and if you are able to include shower or not.
Height
It is vital to take into consideration the importance of be able to stand tall. Are you at ease in crouching? Ok with cooking sitting down and putting your pants on lying down in bed? Think about it.
Your height could also affect where you can travel. Many tall vans are too big to fit through drive-thrus, banks, and parking garages. It may seem like a small thing, but it doesn't really hit how limiting this can be until you must get out at places you're used
Off-road capability
Are you content to stay on the pavement or in campsites or are you looking to create your own route? While 4x4 vans which look stunning are pricey but they can also be a bit of a nuisance. Consider where you'll be driving prior to hopping into a vehicle that you might not require.
Most 2WD vans can handle the rigors of snowy or dirt roads with a simple change of tires. Certain vans have higher clearance at the factory than others. More on that below.
The angle of breakover is another factor to consider when evaluating off-road capabilities. Learn more about approach as well as departure and breakover angles. Wheelbase and overall vehicle length can basically impact the object you can go over. Long vans are more likely to get stuck on steep hills or drag their rear of the vehicle.
Gas or diesel
It's a personal preference. Both gas and diesel vans can do the job well. Diesel is more suitable when you intend to frequently tow your campervan, but you can't go wrong either.
Even though you could purchase a diesel vehicle with more miles at less money however, you should consider the costs of maintaining it. Diesels can run for "forever" however, they will require regular maintenance.
Things To Consider Prior To Buying A Van
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