Introduction
Camper vans are typically made out of vans that have been modified so that in addition to driving in them, they can also be used as sleeping quarters and kitchens. A motorhome is a home-away-from-home that has been purposefully constructed and designed with the occupant’s comfort in mind from the beginning. Because it typically has a longer wheelbase, you can expect it to be significantly larger than the typical van.
Camper vans are a type of recreational vehicle that is designed to allow the driver and passengers to have a temporary home inside the vehicle. If you enjoy going on long road trips around the country, you should probably have a camper van, a type of recreational vehicle designed for you to have a temporary home inside the vehicle. Camper vans provide nearly all of the amenities that one would require to have a home-like environment while traveling, including a kitchen, a bathroom, a bedroom, and a living space. Camper vans may appear uncomplicated at first glance; however, many features and aspects of camper vans need to be discussed to determine whether they are suitable for you. The following is information about camper vans that is necessary for you to know.
Types of Camper Vans
Classic Camper Van
Classic camper vans may have the most recognizable look of any touring vehicle or camper van.
More than half a century has passed since the introduction of the Volkswagen camper, along with other makes and models that are functionally equivalent. They are still manufactured today, even though their overall appearance has a wow factor that is reminiscent of the 1960s and 1970s. These camper vans typically have a large following and are popular because they provide comfortable accommodations.
Classic camper vans are only equipped to provide sleeping space for a maximum of two people and are designed with the idea that their occupants will be on shorter trips. If you are looking for the “it” camper van and are willing to spend a little bit more money, then you should go for the classic camper van. If you are looking for a touring vehicle that is more modern and versatile, as well as having a more modern perspective on touring and travel, then you might be more comfortable with a different type of camper van. You can also check out off road teardrop camper for more great options.
Pop-Top Camper Van
A lot of the outfits that are currently in use can be classified as a rising roof or pop-top camper van, which is the type of camper van that is arguably the most popular and widely owned type of camper van.
The presence of an expandable push-up or pop-top roof distinguishes this particular style of camper van. The mechanism itself is typically constructed out of metal, while the sides can be made of a wide variety of materials (including canvas, for example). They can open either to the front, the back, or the side, but it depends on the model. Because of their high degree of adaptability, pop-top camper vans are an excellent option for equipping any touring vehicle. The addition gives you the ability to modify your camper van to meet your needs. This might include additional sleeping space that is ideal for younger explorers or ventilation that is necessary for drying out outdoor gear.
The ability of pop-top camper vans to be driven is another advantageous feature of these vehicles. It feels very much like driving a car when you’re behind the wheel of this kind of camper van. Because of its compact size, operating it is incredibly simple, making it an excellent choice for novices. Pop-top camper vans give you complete ease of access to those tucked-away spots, which may be harder to reach in a caravan or motorhome due to their size and maneuverability. Pop-top camper vans give you the freedom to go wherever you want, whenever you want. Therefore, navigating winding country roads or finding a parking spot in a building with multiple levels shouldn’t be a problem for you!
High-Top Camper Van
High-top camper vans, which are also referred to as high-top van conversions, are available in an amazing variety of dimensions and floor plans. Those who have decided to downsize from a larger motorhome to a smaller one often choose a high-top camper van because it still allows them the freedom to leave on an adventure at a moment’s notice. The base vehicles of modern models are longer than in previous generations, and the interior design may feature a restroom, a lounge area, and even bunk beds in some configurations.
High-top camper vans are fantastic options for families seeking additional space, particularly when traveling as a group with older children or with a significant amount of gear that needs to be transported. Be aware that the length of the vehicle, which is typically over a meter longer than the average car, may affect its functionality and that height restrictions may prevent you from traveling in certain areas. When everything is taken into consideration, they do make wonderful vantage points as well as places to store surfboards.
Tourers who might want to modify their outfit to fit particular requirements are likely to find this type of camper van to be an excellent option. The flexibility to design the interior however you see fit. Putting only the length of the wheelbase as a limitation is attractive to many people and might be a clever thought if you have something very particular in mind. Be mindful, however, that this procedure might be expensive and will almost certainly prevent you from going out there right away.
Features of Camper Van
Sleeping Arrangements
A camper van can be recognized by the presence of a sleeping area within its interior. The “living accommodation” aspect of a camper is taken care of by the presence of a sleeping area. Check to see if the bed option satisfies your requirements while you are evaluating the sleeping area.
Look for a bed that has a rock-and-roll feature when you are evaluating the space that will be used for sleeping. This option for a bed can be converted into a seating area during the day and a sleeping area during the night, giving you the best of both worlds. The ability to make the most efficient use of space is one of the many advantages offered by a rock and roll bed. That is to say, you will have no trouble getting around during the day and will have no trouble sleeping when the night comes.
Kitchen Facilities
Even though not all camper vans come equipped with kitchens, it is essential to look for one that does because of the added convenience it provides. Your food costs can be kept to a minimum if you have a modest kitchen because you won’t have to make as many trips to the drive-through or restaurants.
Camper vans that have only a modest kitchen space typically come equipped with a pair of gas burners and a compact refrigerator. In addition, if there is room in the kitchen, you might want to think about purchasing additional home appliances like a toaster, a microwave, and a coffee maker.
Bathroom Facilities
Your camper van conversion must include a bathroom. If you have your toilet and shower, you won’t need to use the public facilities when you have to go, and you’ll be able to care for yourself more independently. However, the type of shower and toilet you choose depends on both your personal preferences and the amount of space that is available in your van.
You have the option of using either a portable cassette toilet, which requires emptying every few days, or a composting toilet, which is more convenient but also more expensive. In terms of the bathroom, you have the choice between taking a full shower indoors or settling for an outdoor shower. You can build what is known as a wet bath, which is a combination of a toilet and an indoor shower that is contained within its small room.
Storage Space
If you want to make the most of your camper van, it is in your best interest to determine its storage capacity first. This will allow you to determine whether or not it can accommodate all of your traveling necessities, including clothing, food, and sporting goods.
Your camper van’s cleanliness can also be improved by increasing the amount of storage space you have available. Check to see that the camper van you are interested in has spacious cabinets for storing smaller items and a roof rack for transporting larger items such as kayaks, surfboards, bicycles, and so on. You will be able to organize your belongings and keep your camper van looking neat and presentable with the help of these fixtures while you are on the road.
Entertainment System
You can enjoy the freedom of boondocking by harnessing the power of the sun, but you won’t have to give up the convenience of having electricity. Installing a solar energy system will ensure that you always have access to free electricity; in addition, it will reduce your impact on the environment and heighten your sense of autonomy.
The number of electronic devices and pieces of equipment that you bring aboard, in addition to the amount of power that they consume, will determine the type of solar system that you install. Some systems can provide heat for cooking, as well as charge phones and laptops, power the refrigerator and lights, heat the shower, and run the lights. Do not overlook the fact that you will also require an inverter and batteries to store the energy.
Pros and Cons of Camper Vans
Advantages of Owning a Camper Van
1. Gives You a Chance to Visit Numerous Destinations
Since you are going to be traveling, you will have the extraordinary opportunity to stop at many different places along the way. It is dependent on the amount of time you have for your trip as well as how well you have planned out your schedule.
This advantage is brought about by several factors, including the following:
- Road travel is not like traveling by boat or airplane, in which you only touch down at your destination. On the road in a camper van, you have the freedom to pull over whenever you want, if you don’t go over the allotted time.
- It’s possible that driving to your destination will end up being less expensive than flying, which will give you more room in your travel budget to see more places than you might have at first believed you could.
- You may find that traveling by road in a camper van is more comfortable and relaxing than hopping off and on from one bus to another. As a result, you may find that you enjoy the trip more and do not dread taking lengthy road trips to see more places.
2. Gives You Freedom of Choice
When compared to, for example, taking a tour via bus or going on a cruise, the amount of freedom of choice that is available here is significantly greater. In addition, in contrast to traveling by that conventional mode of transportation, you will have an unprecedented degree of control over your agenda and routine.
Because of this benefit, traveling appears to be less difficult and intimidating. Keep in mind that you are on vacation to relax, not to continue the hectic pace that you find yourself in daily while you are away from work.
Additionally, this freedom of choice includes the ability to select the locations that you wish to visit throughout the day. Is there a location that the children have expressed interest in revisiting? Why not if there is enough time? You won’t have to feel as stressed or constrained by a busy itinerary when you’re traveling in a camper van because you can bring your bed and kitchen with you wherever you go.
3. Parking is Not a Problem
The third benefit comes into play when you make plans to go camping to spend the night at one of the locations. When you plan your trip down to the dot, you’ll be able to find camping spots that have parking fees that are within a reasonable price range for when you need to park your camper van. If you put in the effort, you might even be able to find camping spots that have views that are so breathtaking they belong on a postcard. These spots are unlike any others. Being able to become one with nature while staying at a campsite is an incredible and unforgettable experience.
In addition, if you can’t find a place to camp, you always have the option of parking in a wide open space, such as the ones that are near supermarkets. It might be challenging to navigate small towns in a camper van, but finding a parking spot isn’t a problem.
4. Packing is Easier and More Convenient
There is nothing quite like hitting the open road in your very own home on wheels. When you don’t have to continually pack and unpack your belongings whenever you move from one location to the next, packing will be much simpler for you to do. You have everything with you at all times in the camper van that you are driving.
Even frequent and experienced travelers will tell you that one of the most challenging aspects of traveling is packing their belongings. To say the least, it’s time-consuming and stressful, and the presence of children only makes matters worse in this regard.
You won’t have to stress quite as much if you rent a camper van. You always have the option of running to cafes and supermarkets for food and other necessities if you do not feel like preparing meals at home on certain days. You won’t need to bring nearly as many clothes for the duration of the trip because you’ll have access to facilities that allow you to wash and dry your garments right where you park.
5. Gives You Access to Beautiful Views
Nothing beats being one with nature in places only hikers and outdoor adventure travelers can visit. When traveling by tour bus or group, you may have the opportunity to visit some of the more popular tourist attractions. They may be breathtakingly beautiful, but hundreds of other tourists may detract from the experience. Because of the crowds, you may not even be able to enjoy the view at times.
Traveling in a camper van is also advantageous in this situation. You can visit other tourist attractions if you want, but you also have the option of visiting places that most tourists would not consider visiting.
The majority of campsites are located in national parks, where you can access lakes, mountain sites, and other scenic areas on your own. If you want to do and go where the locals do, you can do so as well because you won’t have to deal with other travelers in a group.
Some of the best views in the world are those that are not included in tour groups or package deals. If you have the opportunity to choose those options, you will undoubtedly benefit from a more memorable trip.
Disadvantages of Owning a Camper Van
1. Taking a Shower is Challenging
If you’re used to the convenience and comfort of hot showers, you might find it difficult to adjust to the situation in camper vans. If you’re only going to be on the road for a few days, it shouldn’t be a problem. However, on longer trips, you may miss your comfortable shower and bathroom.
Many camper vans now include portable showers, but even these are difficult to use. Some travelers find it easy to adjust to shorter and simpler showers, while others may struggle. It depends on whether you’re willing to adjust, even if only for a few days, or if you’d rather stay in a hotel with a larger bathroom.
2. Going Around Tight Road Might be a Problem
Depending on where you’re going, some roads may be too narrow and small for a large camper van. It’s not difficult to navigate the highways. Those smaller roads, on the other hand, are a different story.
Furthermore, because a camper van is a large vehicle, it is difficult to navigate busy and narrow roads. It’s larger than a typical pick-up truck, so if you’ve never driven one and are only used to driving a small car, you might find it difficult to adjust to its size. It takes some getting used to. Along with driving adjustments, another challenge arises as a result of the vehicle’s heavier weight. Handling camper vans can be more difficult than driving smaller cars, which are smoother and easier to maneuver.
To overcome this disadvantage, you must carefully plan your journey and schedule. Make sure you have enough parking space to leave your camper van so you can walk around in congested areas, for example. Investigate each town or location you intend to visit to ensure you won’t run into any last-minute problems getting around. On the plus side, there’s nothing like doing as the locals do to get to know a place. Take advantage of every opportunity to walk.
3. Lacks Privacy
When comparing living in a camper van to staying in a hotel, it’s clear that camper vans provide less privacy. You can move freely in your own enclosed space with hotels and apartments. You don’t need to be concerned about being too close to other travelers, especially if you value your personal and private space.
Because camper vans are small, staying inside is not always comfortable. When you park, you go outside to eat at portable chairs and tables. It implies that you will be sharing that open space with other campers and travelers. There may be noise and chatter, and you may not be able to move around as freely as you would in a hotel room or apartment unit.
As a result, for travelers who enjoy making new friends and don’t mind a lack of privacy, it shouldn’t be a disadvantage. It’s a chance to meet new people while traveling and hopefully form long-lasting friendships. This depends on the type of traveler you are, and whether you consider it an advantage.
Conclusion
There is nothing like too much adventure if you enjoy traveling. It is for this reason that people who want to travel the world invest in camper vans. Camper vans are recreational vehicles that provide both transportation and accommodation. As a result, these vehicles help you save money on lodging while also allowing you to explore off-the-grid areas.