If you’re someone who loves to travel and explore the outdoors, campervanning is a perfect way to fulfil this passion. This simple solution allows you to pack up your home and hit the road in search of new adventures without all the hassle of traditional camping. However, with so many options out there, choosing the perfect campervan that matches your needs may seem like an overwhelming task. In this blog post, we will guide you through each step to help simplify the process.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Choosing the Perfect Campervan for Your Needs
If you’re considering buying a campervan or recreational vehicle (RV), you probably have a lot of questions. Maybe you’ve never owned one before, or maybe the world of RVs is new to you entirely. Whatever your situation, we’re here to help! Here are 6 expert tips for purchasing a campervan.
When it comes to making a campervan purchase, there are several factors that should be considered before taking the plunge. Whether you’re a seasoned road-tripper or just starting out, it’s important to have all of the information you need to make an informed decision about which type of vehicle is right for you. In this article, we’ll take a look at the top five must-know facts before making a campervan purchase.
Perhaps the most important thing to consider before purchasing a campervan is that there are different types available on the market today. These range from full-size RVs to smaller, more compact vans and everything in between. It’s essential to have a clear understanding of exactly what type of vehicle will suit your specific needs before making a purchase.
1. Determine Your Budget
When considering any vehicle purchase, budgeting is always key and campervans are no exception. While they can range in price from affordable options to more expensive high-end models, it’s important to understand how much money you have available upfront as well as how much ongoing maintenance costs will be once you’ve made your purchase.
A campervan or RV can range from around $3,000 for much older models to upwards of $200,000 for new and luxurious ones.
2. Decide on a Layout
The layout of your chosen campervan must suit your travel style and requirements. Do you prefer fixed beds or convertible benches? Is cooking space essential for meal preparation or are pre-packaged meals adequate? Plan out where amenities such as tables, sinks, washing facilities fits in common recreational vehicles.
This again depends on what you want out of your vehicle. Consider if you want amenities like a bathroom or kitchenette, how many people it can sleep comfortably, storage space, and whether it fits your preferred driving style(e.g., high clearance for off-roading or low-profile for urban areas).
3. Determine the Size That You Need
The size of your campervan should align with how far you intend to travel outside major urban centres. Compact campers are appropriate for picnics at local parks while larger ones can accommodate certain forms of entertainment like Televisions or game consoles that require much more space.
Another crucial factor to consider when purchasing a campervan is its size and capacity. A vehicle that can accommodate multiple people comfortably is ideal if you’re traveling with family or friends, while smaller models may be better suited for solo travellers or couples. Additionally, larger models may come with more features such as extra storage space or on-board amenities like kitchens and bathrooms.
4. Planned Use of your Campervan / RV
Campervans offer ultimate flexibility when it comes to travel and adventure but they may not be ideal for every lifestyle need out there! Prioritizing factors like off-road capabilities, fuel efficiency or onboard amenities like cooking facilities versus dining out while on-the-go should inform your final decision when it comes to purchasing your dream campervan.
Some models are designed specifically for off-road use while others aren’t suited for any adventures beyond paved roads. Research ahead so that purchasing fits with your travel desires.
5. Choose Between New or Used Campervans
If you’re in the market for a campervan, your biggest decision is likely whether to go with a new or used one. Both options have their pros and cons, so it can be tough to decide which direction to go in.
On one hand, opting for a brand new van guarantees that everything will be in tip-top shape and under warranty. You won’t have to worry about any underlying mechanical issues or past wear and tear on the vehicle. Additionally, you’ll get the latest features and technology that come with newer models.
However, purchasing a new campervan also means shelling out more money upfront. The price tag may seem steep at first but keep in mind that you could save significantly on repairs and upgrades over time since everything is already up-to-date.
On the other hand, buying a used camper can often be less expensive than going the new route. It’s important though that when purchasing used vehicles it’s always recommended to have them inspected before purchase as there might be hidden problems in the vehicle that are not visible during inspection.
The downside of buying used campers is if they have previous issues from the prior owner(s), those issues could resurface after your purchase. Warranties are usually limited if its not obtained from dealership or certified mechanic shops which should count toward anything associated with prior ownership.
You could also consider purchasing a suitable passenger van and have it fitted out to the layout you desire with kitchen, bedding and storage solutions. There are a number of companies, such as Van Essa and Reimo, that supply modular campervan systems and conversion kits for various model vans.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and budgetary constraints. Both options offer unique benefits depending on what you prioritize most when RV-ing around town or hitting up campsites all over the world!
6. Consider the Favourite Manufacturer
While it may not be a significant point of consideration for everyone, selecting a campervan from reputable manufacturers like Volkswagen, Toyota, Mercedes or Ford provide some reassurance in terms of warranties and reliability.
Regardless of whether you choose to purchase a new or a used campervan or RV it can be beneficial to look at online reviews for the particular vehicle the van is based on. Additionally, you should study the maintenance requirements and general advice from experienced campers for specific models/brands.
7. Personalise With Modifications
You can make modifications to personalise your campervan or RV van. Consider strategic changes that amplify overall functionality or luxury features depending on travelling style. For example, adding bedside shelves, cabinet lighting and outdoor furniture.
If you have purchased a cheaper used campervan you may have some free cash to put towards customizing or upgrading features more specifically tailored to your needs such as adding solar panels or additional water tanks for off-grid travelling.
In Conclusion…
Choosing the perfect campervan is a process that requires patience and careful thought. In summation; establish your budget early on while considering your travel needs, preferences with regards to size/layout/selecting manufacturer before investing in a new or used model which may require subsequent customization. Plan ahead once you’ve made up your mind with regard to additions that you’d prefer and embark on adventures with confidence in a motorhome reflecting all those considerations greatly elevated by close attention paid at every stage.
In summary, purchasing a campervan can be one of the best decisions a traveller can make but requires research and careful considerations before taking the plunge. From understanding multiple vehicle designs, accommodating size and features ideal for your specific travel needs to budgeting on maintenance costs, these must-know facts will greatly inform any future customer’s final decision. Whether it is better fuel efficiency or off-road capabilities that are important for your lifestyle needs, make sure you invest smart so you can drive happy – good luck in finding the perfect campervan journey!
Happy travels!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need any special licences to drive a campervan / RV?
This generally depends on weight – If the automotive has 26k pounds GVWR/GCWR and/or three axles overall(like most large Class A motorhomes), it may require specific license requirements based where the vehicle will be traveling. Drivers with regular licenses should be able to operate most campervans but ensure you research and verify the requirements based on where you plan on driving.
Do I need insurance?
Yes—one of the biggest elements for a new driver to consider is obtaining adequate insurance coverage that protects your vehicle as well as its contents plus passengers in the event of an accident or issue. Research will allow finding policies specific to campervan ownership.
Can I finance a campervan?
Many dealerships sell both new and used vehicles offering financing options, shop around to find one to meet your financial needs dependent on the model year of your preference.