Camper vans have many optional extras and facilities and most first time buyers or hirers, do not have all the information to make an informed choice over which van to choose. A lot of people will be taken in by the styling of a camper and will pay little attention to the actual facilities. Most campers have basic facilities as standard, enough to just about cover a few nights away. Optional extras can though, make a big difference to your comfort levels.

You should consider a number of factors, such as family size today and what it may become in the near future. Your needs will change as your family grows and now may be the time to plan ahead. The kind of trips you wish to make can also have a bearing on the vehicle most suited to your needs. Buying or renting presents different considerations with regards to price as does whether you go for a new or second hand vehicle.

My intention is to show you some of the available options for new camper vans, which will equally enable you to know what to expect from a well-kept second hand one. Whether you choose minimum conversion models or completely self-contained, keep in mind that you can always improve something later, should it be the case.

Most camper vans usually have up to eight seats, but only four beds. There is usually one large double bed together with two or three single ones for children. However, before buying any camper van, take a careful look at all the available designs and see which ones are large enough for your needs. Also try to strike an even balance between quality and price. You do get what you pay for, but there are many bargains to be found in both the new and the second hand market.

The living area, including the kitchen are where you will find the most optional extras. As this is the main family working and resting area, comfort and ease of use are prime considerations. Everything from televisions, to microwaves, air conditioning, cookers and expensive music sound systems can be installed customized to your exact needs. Seating areas can be covered in fabric or luxurious leather, floors can be carpeted or tiled. You can even opt for solar panels to save on battery power. Sticking to your budget in the living areas will probably be the hardest of all, just think about how much of your time will be spent in the van.

A high quality comfortable leather drivers seat is desirable for those long road trips. In truth most campers have comfortable driver seats, but if you intend to buy one, leather will offer you the most durability. You can never have enough storage and optional extra storage compartments are well worth the added investment. Some storage compartments come with liquid coolers and some are even built into the floor.

Motorhomes and camper vans with simple designs allow you to concentrate on what many owners feel is the most important consideration, that of space. A great exterior will never make up for poor interior planning. Older vans rarely have the flushing toilets and shower facilities you find on the latest models. So you may wish to consider the cost of upgrading a used model to include these essentials. Do not though fill up your recently acquired camper or motorhome with so many extras, that you have no space left for comfortable movement inside.

Share This