15 Best Camper Vans of 2023 for the Adventurous

Today we’re going to be looking at the top camper vans on the market. Each of these tiny homes would make the perfect adventure bus for you next off grid adventure but working out which one is best is a process individual to each person.

It’s essential to spend time thinking about what you need in your tiny house as there is so much choice out there.

You will need to choose wisely

1. First, you need to think about how many people will be travelling in your camper conversion. A compact camper can be ideal if you’re travelling alone but if your travelling as a family or large group then you’re going to need a more significant, monster camper.
2. Next, you need to think about how much time you will spend living the van life. Are you going to be travelling in a van for an extended period or even living in a van or will you just be exploring on the weekends?
3. Finally, you will want to think about which van life ideas are critical to a comfortable road trip. Do you need to have a camper shower on board, an indoor kitchen or space to store surfboards?

Once you have created a list of van life essentials you are ready to begin the search for your camper van and this list of the best camper vans is the perfect place to start.

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What are the best camper vans?

Based on our extensive research we’ve compiled a list of the top camper vans on the market:

1. Winnebago Revel Camper Van

At number one on our list of the best camper vans out there, we have a camper that was designed with adventure in mind, the Winnebago Revel Camper Van.

The Winnebago Revel takes the Mercedes Sprinter chassis to the next level, by adding 4×4 capabilities, making it perfect for chasing the road less travelled. Once you’ve reached your remote location, this camper helps you create the ideal outdoor setting with a powered patio awning to provide shade, complete with a light so you can stay out way after the sun has gone down.

Also mounted to the exterior of the van is a fold-down table, ideal for an outdoor dinner while watching the sunset. 

Inside, the Winnebago interior is clean and modern with everything fitting neatly into its own space. Packed inside this camper, you will find everything you need for a fantastic adventure, including kitchen space, dining/seating area, shower room with toilet and, of course, a comfortable double bed.

Power comes from the 200-watt solar power system, and a diesel-powered heating system will keep you warm in the coldest of places, so you can enjoy camping all year round. The Winnebago Revel also comes equipped with a hot water system with a continuous supply giving you the luxury of a hot shower on demand.  

One of the best features of this camper van has to be the power lift bed. This innovative feature allows you to raise your bed to the camper’s ceiling at the press of a button, transforming your living space into a 140 cubic ft garage. Just think of all the outdoor gear that you can take with you on your next adventure!

If this vast storage area isn’t enough the Winnebago Revel also comes with a durable roof rack (and moveable ladder) that you can secure larger items to, such as kayaks or surfboards. The Winnebago Revel’s base price starts at just over £100,000… not exactly cheap, but you do get a lot of luxuries for your money.

2. Nomad Vanz Sprinter Conversion

Second, on our list of the best camper vans, we have this stunning Mercedes Sprinter Van conversion from Nomad Vanz, Yin Yang.

Yin Yang is a van that brings together opposites to create total harmony: work and play, eat and sleep, near and far. Whatever your adventure looks like, this van has got you covered. On the outside, this Sprinter Van chassis has been pimped to create a beast of a vehicle.

It has a safari roof rack and ladder, 175-litre water storage and indoor/outdoor shower system, agile off-road wheels, a massive LED light bar mounted to the front of the roof rack and anti-glare window tinting.

Inside, this van is a comfortable tiny home, suitable for living in during all four seasons of the year. A generous kitchen with a fridge, sink, hob, storage and food preparation space takes up the central area inside the van, giving you the ability to prepare delicious meals wherever you are.

In front of the kitchen is a bench seat and table, with the driver and passenger seat swivelling to create a dining area. To the rear of the van is a large double bed with plenty of storage underneath.

The best thing about Nomad Vanz is that your camper van will be unique to you, while still upholding the high quality you would expect to find in a factory-built camper. They are an experienced company and know what layouts and features work best together and what you would find beneficial, depending on the type of person you are and what you will be using your camper for.

Nomad Vanz work directly with each customer to design and create the perfect van for you, based on your needs and budget, head over to their website to find out more!

3. Ford Terrier M Sport

Next up on our list of the best camper vans we have the Ford Terrier M Sport, perfect for any speed junkies out there. If you’re a weekend warrior that likes putting the ‘pedal to the metal’, then this has got to be the best camper van that you’ve ever laid your eyes on.

The Ford Terrier M Sport is a six-speed beast, complete with bumper kit, rear spoiler, front diffuser, wider wheel arches, quad exhaust, lowered suspension, sill extension kit and limited edition OZ 18 inch alloy wheels. If you’re looking to catch eyes on the road, then this is the camper for you.

Moving inside to the cab of the Ford Terrier M Sport and you will find a thickened M-Sport Embossed steering wheel, white M-Sport dials, napper leather seats, M-Sport mats, Limited Edition plaque with own edition number.

All of these fine details give this camper a luxury feel, like a five-star hotel on wheels. If you’re looking to enjoy a weekend away in style, then the M Sport is for you!

The M Sport has leather swivel front seats and ample space for the back passenger seats to fold down into a bed. It may be flashy, but the Ford Terrier M Sport also means business and comes with all the amenities you’d need for a weekend in the wild (or a wild weekend) including a 12v compressor fridge, sink, hob, toilet and 40L fresh water container.

This weekend party bus starts at £55,000, with more customisation options available.

4. Knauss Boxstar 600

The BoxStar 600 is a funky fresh camper from the wonderful world of KNAUSS, that deserves a spot on our list of the best camper vans. If you’re looking for an all-round classic for all of the family, then look no further.

The BoxStar sleeps up to four, in several different formations depending on your preference. You could go for double bunk beds at the back to comfortably sleep four, or opt for a lifting bed to give everyone a bit more space. There are four seat-belted seats to ensure the whole family is safe when on the move. However, no space is wasted when in relaxing mode as these seats transform into a dining area, utilising swivel seats and a table. 

Aside from the sleeping and seating areas, the Knauss BoxStar 600 also comes equipped with a spacious bath and shower cabin, allowing you to stay clean on the road. A generously sized kitchenette makes cooking for the whole family a breeze when travelling in the Knaus BoxStar 600.

We love that the hob is in front of the sliding door, so you can take in your view while cooking and allowing food smells to escape the camper, keeping it fresher for longer.

On the exterior of the vehicle, handy compartments mean you can access the toilet cassette, gas canister and water storage without needing to go inside. There is also an awning, convenient fly screen and roof vents.

The Knauss BoxStar 600 is one of the best camper vans on the market and can be purchased for around £ 50’000 from select dealers. To find out more, visit the Knauss website. 

5. Dalbury E Electric

Meet the worlds first all electric campervan, the Dalbury E Electric. Boasting an 80% quick charge in just 30 minutes, this is the camper van of the future.

Vanlifers often love visiting the roads less travelled and are aware of the damage and pollution that driving can cause such beautiful spots. Green and eco-friendly, the Dalbury E Electric could be the solution to this problem and the best camper van for your next eco-conscious road trip. 

Inside and this compact camper van has everything you need for an amazing road trip. It may be small, but within it you will find all the comforts of home. The Dalbury E Electric has swivel seats and a bench seat with a removable table to create a dining area; a kitchen area with sink, gas hob and fridge; storage for clothes and essential gear and a (seat-belted) bench that converts into a large bed in minutes.

The Dalbury E Electric is also a pop-top camper, meaning you have the headroom to stand up in your van easily.

Simple, stylish and full of all the hidden extras that you need for a cosy trip into the wild. From solar panels to charge your tech to a silent key push start system, this camper boasts a calm yet road-ready atmosphere that will keep you well-rested when you’re out and about.

Did we also mention that it’s tax-free? Another reason to go electric! Prices start from £ 29’995, and you can click our link to check out more info on the Dalbury Electric Campervan.

6. VW Crafter VanWorx 

Next up on our list of the best camper vans we’ve got another custom-built van from UK based company, VanWorx.

VanWorx specialises in all things VW and today we’re looking at MaxTraxx, a VW Crafter Conversion. This camper is an excellent example of a VW Crafter conversion and is designed for those who want more room and to be able to go off the beaten track.

This vehicle can be equipped with off-road capabilities such as extra suspension, a winch, underbody protection, a snorkel and off-road tires. These added extras will allow for a smoother ride when choosing the dirt road. 

Inside, this cosy campervan is suitable for a couple or a family of four, depending on your choices. This camper can come in a medium or long wheelbase VW Crafter, depending on how much space you need. Both models can sleep up to four with the option of a fold-out rib bed. In the medium wheelbase camper, sleeping four comes at the sacrifice of a full shower room, which can be added in if you only need to sleep two.

Each model also comes with a kitchen area and fridge, swivel front seats, large double bed with garage beneath and a seating area. The larger model also comes with a table and larger bed, shower room and fridge. 

This custom camper van reaches the highest quality and will not disappoint. The MaxTraxx VW Crafter is built on request so is customisable with added extras such as solar, a roof rack and lithium batteries.

This is the perfect camper to take you wherever you want to go. This VW Crafter Camper Conversion starts at £80,000 (plus VAT). 

7. Fiat Ducato Sunlight Cliff 600

Up next on our list of the best camper vans out there is the Sunlight Cliff 600. The Sunlight campervans are relatively new to the block, first showing their faces in 2018.

However, all Sunlight campervans are made by German experts Dethleffs, which is in turn owned by the grandfather of campervans, Hymer.

With a reliable umbrella company behind them, we can be sure to expect good things from the Sunlight Cliff 600, which is built in a Fiat Ducato chassis. 

Inside and the Sunlight Cliff 600 does not disappoint, the clean well-designed layout, with stylish wooden accents, certainly does catch the eye. The interior of this camper features all the comforts of home, including a large washroom complete with shower, toilet, sink and plenty of storage. Even the bathroom is finished in wood effect giving it a warm and cosy feel.

Beyond the bathroom is a kitchenette, perfect for cooking up a storm. A dining area with swivel seats allows for space to seat four, and the large double bed at the back will be welcoming after a long day of exploring.

Below the bed is a large ‘garage’ area, perfect for storing outdoor gear or larger pieces of equipment such as mountain bikes. The bed can fold away to one side to allow even more height for storing bulky items when on the move.

With a price starting from £37,899, this campervan is a competitive model that would make an excellent home on wheels. 

8. School Bus – Paved to Pines 

Up next on our list of the best camper vans we have something a bit different, a school bus conversion by Paved to Pines.

The bus we’re looking at today is a huge, classic American ex-school bus, aptly named ‘The Cabin’. The Cabin is beautifully handmade with warm wooden cladding covering the walls and ceiling of the bus, making it feel like you have indeed stepped inside a cabin in the woods.

The wood is beautifully complemented with green accents running throughout the conversion, found in the upholstery, kitchen and bedroom. 

The gorgeous colour scheme that runs through the bus ties together the different areas of the conversion that have been cleverly made to feel like separate rooms, while mostly keeping an open plan layout.

An L-shaped sofa (that can transform into an extra bed) partitions the living room from the kitchen/dining room and the bathroom gives the bedroom a part wall to make it feel enclosed and cosy. 

This bus has everything you would find in an apartment (and more!). On top of all the usual components of a camper, there is a full oven and four ring hob, large fridge freezer, wood-burning stove, dining table and shower. But best of all, this apartment can go wherever you please!

Paved to Pine is a Canadian based company who are happy to work with all clients, whatever their location. Each conversion is customised and created on a client by client basis, depending on your needs and budget. Good news, they convert vans as well as busses! 

9. Benchmark Ford Transit Camper

Up next on our list of the best camper vans we have another custom-built conversion for you. This conversion, called Benchmark, by Benchmark Vehicles shows you just what you can do with a Ford Transit.

This Ford Transit conversion has been externally upgraded, adding features that will allow this van to easily make it to base camp, no matter the terrain. As well as off-road tires this camper also has a huge light bar, roof rack and ladder, spare wheel mounted on the back door, an additional fuel canister and a winch on the front. With all that gear you will be ready for any situation when travelling in Benchmark. 

This van may look tough and rugged on the outside, but inside it is light and airy, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

The front area of the conversion is taken up by the kitchen which features a fridge, cooker that is covered by a lovely wooden chopping board when not in use, sink that is also covered when not in use to give more workspace and plenty of storage.

The large, raised double bed at the back folds up onto each wall. This allows the whole of the back of the van to be used as a storage area when the bed is not in use, good news if you want to bring a lot of gear on the road with you. For seating, the two front driving seats swivel round. 

Benchmark is a custom build, and Benchmark Vehicles has an extensive portfolio of amazing Ford conversions, as well as Mercedes Sprinter Van conversions. Their experience and skill are evident in every vehicle they create, and they would be happy to design your dream van for you.

Each van is unique and so, therefore is the price. Their cheapest conversions can start at $25k, but for a fully pimped out camper, you’re looking at $125k+. 

10. Sportsmobile Classic  

At number ten on our list of the best camper vans, we have The Sportsmobile Classic 4×4, a true off-road vehicle that will take you wherever you want to go.

The Sportsmobile Classic takes a Ford Cutaway body and moulds it with a steel reinforced fibreglass shell to give it a unique look. The pop-top roof allows for plenty of standing room inside but, when popped down, the vehicle remains streamline and easy to drive, even on rugged dirt roads. 

Outside there are added extras to turn this off-roading beast into the ideal camper. Included is an awning to provide shade in the warmest of climates, a roof rack and rear-mounted box for extra storage, solar panels for off the grid electrics and a fold-down table on the side door for dinner al fresco.

One thing we love about the Sportsmobile Classic is the outward opening doors on this van, it’s such a unique look that gives this camper iconic style. 

Inside and this van is just as fresh as the exterior of the vehicle, with everything needed for your next road trip but still enough open space to not feel cramped, thanks to the fact that cabinetry only runs along one wall.

A fold-out bed at the back of the van provides a comfortable sleeping and sitting area, and in front of this is the kitchen, complete with microwave oven, sink, fridge and plenty of storage. The Sportsmobile Classic starts at $39,100 and is customisable to your needs. 

11. VW Caddy

At number eleven on our list of the best camper vans, we have the VW Caddy. The VW Caddy may be one of the smallest camper vans out there, but it is still mighty.

There are plenty of advantages to having a small camper van such as affordable to buy and run, easy to drive, can be used as daily transportation, can squeeze into tight parking spaces and easy to handle on rougher, windier or narrower roads. If you’re looking for something to take out on the weekends or for short breaks that ticks these boxes, then a VW Caddy could be for you. 

This VW Caddy conversion by Freedom Conversions, who are based in the UK, utilises the space inside well. Despite its small size this conversion manages to squeeze in everything you need for a weekend away. There is room to seat four people, with seatbelts when driving, meaning the camper could be a family affair, if the kids are okay with sleeping in a tent that is. The back passenger seats convert into a large double bed for the adults to provide a comfortable nights sleep.

This camper also has a full kitchenette with sink, two-burner hob, fridge, storage and preparation space. Swivel seats and a removable table create a dining area, and more storage runs along the wall for clothes and other essentials. 

While the VW Caddy may be small, this conversion has added a pop-top roof. This is a brilliant idea and suddenly makes the small space feel a whole lot bigger. Being able to stand up inside your camper van is such a huge benefit and makes cooking inside a van much more comfortable.

This excellent conversion doesn’t come with a price tag, but a brand new VW Caddy Maxi costs £20,500, so you’re probably looking at an extra £6000-£8000 for the conversion. However, if you were looking for a more affordable option, then second hand is an excellent way to go! 

12. Hymer Aktiv 2.0

Up next on our list of the best camper vans we have the Hymer Aktiv 2.0, a camper van perfect for any travelling family. This family friendly camper van can sleep up to five people with a unique layout.

Two sleep in the double bed at the rear, two on the sleeping platform in the pop-top roof and one more on an optional added bed that can be converted from the front dining area. Unlike most campervans, the Hymer Aktiv 2.0 can also safely seat five people while driving: two in the cab, two in the dining area and a further three on an optional rear sofa. 

The sleeping areas may be impressive and so is the rest of the camper, thanks to the pop-top roof the extra bed doesn’t take up any extra floor space meaning there is plenty of room for all other essentials.

At the front is the dining area, with two seats plus the two swivel front seats and a dining table. During the day the rear sofa creates an extra seating area, meaning the kids can have their own space until it becomes the bedroom via the press of a button. A full kitchenette and shower room take up the rest of the area, giving you everything you need for the perfect holiday. 

The Hymer Aktiv 2.0 is a great family campervan with room to stretch out and accommodate everyone.

The Hymer Aktiv 2.0 starts at $114,127, which isn’t exactly cheap. However, it’s unusual to find such a compact vehicle that can sleep five and seat up to seven so if you’re looking for something for the entire family, then it may be worth saving. 

13. EarthCruiser GZL 300

At number thirteen on our list of the best camper vans we have something a bit different, the EarthCruiser GZL 300. The EarthCruiser GZL 300 is a truck camper, a great option for someone that is already the owner of or is looking to buy a suitable truck as it slides onto the back.

This is a fantastic option as it can make purchasing a camper more affordable. It also means that you do not need to own more than one vehicle as you can simply remove the camper when not in use and use the truck as your everyday car. 

By transforming a truck into your camper van, you also get all the driving capabilities of a truck that are often powerful vehicles with off-road capabilities. This allows you peace of mind when hitting the road that your camper will be able to take you wherever you want to go.

The EarthCruiser GZL 300 has a pop-top roof, allowing extra room when inside, allowing you to stand where needed but also allowing the vehicle to remain streamlined when driving. 

The pop-top roof design allows you to stand inside the kitchen area of the camper van, and to stand when using the indoor fold-out shower. Beyond the kitchen is a seating area with two bench seats and a table, giving you space to eat and work.

At the back, situated above your truck is the sleeping area, comfortable and welcoming after a long day of adventuring. This impressive truck camper starts at $36,000. 

14. Ram Promaster City

Up next on our list of the best camper vans we have the Ram Promaster City. A Ram Promaster City conversion is another compact camper van that is perfect for anyone looking for something on the smaller and more affordable side.

A Ram Promaster City is small, but it has a roomy feel inside thanks to its boxy shape. This square shape allows for more headroom when sitting down, so you won’t find yourself hunching over. 

Today we’re looking at this conversion by Contra Vans who are based in Colorado, America but have had customers all over the USA.

Contra Vans have two basic conversion options for the Ram Promaster City. The first option is a large double bed that takes up the whole of the van. This looks super comfortable but maybe not so practical unless you’re somewhere where you can sit outside all the time. This option comes with a great pull out kitchen so you can prepare and eat food outside. 

The second option is to have a horseshoe-shaped bench seat inside the van that converts into a double bed. The benefit of this layout is that you can chill out inside your camper without sitting on the bed. However, this option doesn’t come with a built-in kitchen.

We like both of these layouts and think they could work for a keen weekend warrior who loves being outside. The fixed bed with kitchen conversion starts at $9698, and the bench conversion starts at $8998, both reasonably affordable options. 

15. VW Bus

You can’t write an article about the best camper vans and not include the classic VW bus. The VW bus is where campervans began, and they are as much loved now as their first debut in 1950!

These cute, iconic busses bring up thoughts of The Beach Boys, long Californian road trips and pure freedom and are just as roadworthy in 2020 as they were fifty years ago. The bright, bold colours that are the signature look of the iconic VW bus make it hard not to feel happy when you see one cruising down the highway and being in one has got to feel even cooler. 

Inside the VW Bus looks just as cute as the colourful exterior. The classic layout can sleep two to four people, depending on whether you go for a pop-top or not, two on the downstairs rock’n’roll bed and two on the loft bed in the pop-top roof.

The eye-catching checkerboard floor is a must-have for a real retro VW Bus, as is the striking leather interior, matching the outside colour of the camper. As well as the sleeping areas, these campervans have a seating area with a collapsible table and a full kitchenette. 

The price of a VW can vary drastically depending on its age and quality. Most classic VW busses will have had to have been lovingly restored to be a reliable vehicle in 2020. Due to their age, they can be a lot of work to run and keep, so it is essential to find one in good condition if you are looking to buy a VW Bus.

Try to find a well-loved model with an honest owner who is open with you about the pros and cons of the bus. However, once you have located your camper, there will be no better feeling than navigating the open road together.  

Final Thoughts…

Just as every person is unique, so is every camper van. Finding your perfect camper will be down to your lifestyle and needs, but we hope this article has introduced you to some vans that tick a lot of boxes. Where the Earth Cruiser GZL 300 might be someone’s dream rig, the School Bus Conversion might be someone else’s idea of perfection but what all these vehicles have in common is the epic road trip they will take you on. Let us know what your ideal camper is by joining the Van Clan over on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

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