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September 24, 2023Let’s get into the Ultimate Van For Camper Conversion
Welcome to ExploreUncharted’s 2023 Ultimate Van For Camper Conversion in Australia. If you’re dreaming of hitting the open road and embarking on unforgettable camping adventures, you’re in the right place. In this post, we’ll explore the top van options that are perfect for camper conversions Down Under.
When selecting these vans, we considered a range of factors, including their conversion potential, 4×4 capabilities for off-road adventures, interior space for comfort, and ease of serviceability.
1. Toyota Coaster: Spacious Dream Bus
Price $30,000-$60,000 AUD
The Toyota Coaster is often regarded as the pinnacle in the DIY camper conversion scene. It offers an exceptional combination of space, headroom, and reliability, making it a top choice for those seeking the best value for their investment. However, it’s worth noting that the growing interest in this minibus has driven up its price considerably. These days, you can expect to find the Toyota Coaster typically priced in the low to mid-20s, reflecting its high caliber and desirability among camper enthusiasts.
Key Features:
- Engine: Equipped with a durable H1Z engine, similar to the renowned Toyota Land Cruiser, known for its reliability and power.
- Interior Space: One of the standout features of the Coaster is its incredibly spacious interior, providing ample room for customization.
- Standing Height: With an impressive standing height, occupants can move around comfortably without feeling cramped.
- Layout Flexibility: Its boxy design and generous dimensions provide flexibility in designing your camper’s layout.
- Off-Road Capability: While the Coaster is not typically equipped with 4×4 capabilities, it’s a reliable engine and sturdy construction handle various road conditions. When paired with a nice lift kit and some AT tires.
- Affordability: Compared to some of the more upscale options, the Toyota Coaster is often more budget-friendly – compared to motorhomes. This is a “premium DIY car” with high interest at the moment.
- Serviceability: Toyota’s reputation for reliability extends to the Coaster, ensuring ease of maintenance.
- Customization Potential: Due to its popularity in the camper conversion community, you can find a wide range of conversion kits and aftermarket accessories tailored specifically for the Coaster.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Coaster’s efficient engine design helps keep fuel costs manageable during your adventures.
- Space: Height, which is the measurement from the ground to the top of the car, remains consistent at 2635 mm for all variants. Likewise, the width maintains a uniform measurement of 2080 mm across all variants. The length is also standardized at 6990 mm for all variants. For a detailed breakdown of dimensions for the 2019 Toyota Coaster, including height, width, length, and additional specifications for each vehicle, please refer to the comprehensive table below.
When considering the best vans for camper conversion, the Toyota Coaster stands out as a luxurious and adventure-ready option. Its spacious interior, premium design, and 4×4 capabilities make it an attractive choice for those seeking both comfort and off-road versatility in their campervans. Explore the possibilities of the Sprinter for your next camper conversion project.
2. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter: Luxury Meets Budget
Price: $8,000 – $50,000 AUD
The Mercedes Sprinter, once a reliable ambulance, has fulfilled various roles over the years. You can often find ex-ambulance Sprinters at a reasonable price, making them a fantastic option for those seeking an extensive van conversion project. These vans offer generous space, allowing you to bring your camper dreams to life.
However, it’s important to note that many ex-ambulance and delivery Sprinters tend to come with high mileage. Being Mercedes vehicles, servicing and repairs can occasionally incur higher costs. Nevertheless, Sprinters are known for their robust drivelines, a significant advantage to consider when weighing the pros and cons of this versatile choice.
Key Features:
- Spacious Interior: The Sprinter offers a generously spacious interior, allowing for comfortable living and customization.
- Luxurious Design: Known for its premium interior materials and design, the Sprinter provides a touch of luxury during your camping adventures.
- Customization Options: Mercedes-Benz offers a wide range of customization options, making it possible to tailor the Sprinter to your specific camper conversion needs.
- 4×4 Models: Mercedes-Benz offers 4×4 variants of the Sprinter, enhancing its off-road capabilities and enabling you to explore remote and rugged terrains.
- Fuel Efficiency: Despite its size, the Sprinter is engineered for fuel efficiency, helping to keep running costs manageable during long journeys.
- Reliability: Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to quality and durability ensures that the Sprinter is a reliable choice for extended road trips.
- Space: height, which is the distance from the ground to the top of the car, varies between 2331 mm and 2706 mm, depending on the specific variant. The width remains a consistent 2020 mm across all variants. In terms of length, it spans from 5267 mm to 7367 mm. You can find a comprehensive list of dimensions for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter in the table below, including details about height, width, length, and more for each vehicle.
When it comes to camper conversions, the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is synonymous with luxury and adventure. Its spacious interior, premium design, and 4×4 capabilities make it a compelling choice for those seeking an upscale camping experience.
3. Ford Transit: A Versatile Workhorse
Price: $9,000 – $30,000 AUD
The Ford Transit, a beloved choice among tradesmen worldwide, is renowned for its storage, reliability, and budget-friendliness. While you can often find great deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Carsales, keep in mind that many of these vehicles may have endured a hardworking life. However, with a well-designed kitchen and bed, these battle scars are easily overlooked, making the Transit an ideal canvas for camper conversion.
Key Features:
- Versatility: The Ford Transit offers a variety of configurations, including different roof heights and lengths, allowing for flexibility in camper layout and design.
- Affordability: Ford Transits are often budget-friendly compared to some of the premium options on the market, making them accessible to a broad range of campervan enthusiasts.
- Interior Space: The spacious interior provides ample room for creating a comfortable living space with sleeping areas, kitchenettes, storage, and more.
- Ease of Serviceability: Ford’s extensive network of service centers and availability of parts make the Transit an easy-to-maintain choice for campervan owners.
- Adaptability: The Transit’s sturdy construction and reliability make it adaptable to various road conditions, including highway travel and gravel roads.
- Space: height, which is determined by measuring from the ground to the top, varies between 2541 mm and 2786 mm depending on the specific variant. The width remains a consistent 2112 mm for all variants. In terms of length, it spans from 5941 mm to 6704 mm. You can find a detailed list of dimensions for the 2019 Ford Transit in the table below, including information about height, width, length, and other specifications for each vehicle.
When it comes to choosing the best vans for camper conversion, the Ford Transit shines as a versatile and budget-friendly option. Its various configurations and affordability make it suitable for a wide range of camper conversion styles.
4. Toyota Hiace: The Reliable Classic
Price: $4,000 – $25,000 AUD
The Toyota Hiace is a trusted choice for both tradespeople and adventurers, known for its reliability, practicality, and affordability. You can often find great deals on platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Carsales. While some Hiace vans may show signs of wear from their previous lives, they provide a sturdy foundation for camper conversions. You might not fit a kitchen inside, or a tall bed… but as a stealth camper you can’t go wrong, any wear and tear becomes inconsequential. The Hiace reputation for durability and cost-effectiveness makes it an ideal choice for crafting your dream campervan, whether you’re embarking on epic road trips or seeking a cozy retreat.
Photo by Guillaume Didelet on Unsplash
Key Features:
- Reliability: The Toyota HiAce is renowned for its reliability and longevity, making it an excellent choice for extended road trips and off-grid adventures.
- Versatility: Available in various configurations, including different roof heights and lengths, the HiAce offers versatility in camper layout and design.
- 4×4 Variants: For those looking to venture off-road, the HiAce has 4×4 variants that enhance its capabilities on rugged terrain.
- Used and New Options: The availability of both new and used models provides flexibility for budget-conscious campervan builders.
- Resale Value: Toyotas, including the HiAce, often retain their resale value well, offering a potential return on investment.
- Space: height, which is determined by measuring from the ground to the top of the vehicle, varies between 1980 mm and 2285 mm depending on the specific variant. The width has a range of 1695 mm to 1950 mm across different variants. In terms of length, it spans from 4695 mm to 5915 mm. For a detailed breakdown of dimensions for the 2019 Toyota HiAce, including height, width, length, and additional specifications for each vehicle, please refer to the comprehensive table below.
When it comes to camper conversions, the Toyota HiAce consistently ranks among the top choices due to its reliability and versatility.
5. Renault Master: Versatile and Spacious
Price: $10,000 – $45,000 AUD
Key Features:
- Interior Space: The Renault Master boasts a spacious interior, providing ample room for creative camper conversions.
- Customization Potential: With its versatile design, the Master offers numerous layout possibilities, allowing you to personalize your camper to your liking.
- Affordability: Renault Masters are often competitively priced, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious campervan builders.
- Fuel Efficiency: The Master’s efficient engine design contributes to cost-effective fuel consumption during your journeys.
- Reliability: Renault’s commitment to quality ensures that the Master is a reliable choice for your road trips.
- Space: height, as measured from the ground to the top of the vehicle, varies between 2307 mm and 2808 mm, contingent on the specific variant. The width maintains a consistent measurement of 2070 mm across all variants. As for the length, it ranges from 5048 mm to 6845 mm. To access a detailed list of dimensions for the 2019 Renault Master, encompassing height, width, length, and additional specifications for each vehicle, kindly consult the comprehensive table provided below.
When it comes to camper conversions, the Renault Master is a versatile and cost-effective choice. Its spacious interior, customization potential, and budget-friendly pricing make it a great platform for creating your dream camper.
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FAQs: Choosing the Best Van for Camper Conversion
Q1: What should I consider when choosing a van for camper conversion? A1: When selecting a van for camper conversion, consider factors such as your budget, desired features, space requirements, 4×4 capabilities for off-road travel, and ease of maintenance. Think about your camping style and the level of customization you want for your camper.
Q2: Are 4×4 capabilities important for a camper van in Australia? A2: It depends on your intended adventures. While 4×4 capabilities can be advantageous for off-road exploration in remote areas, they may not be necessary if you plan to stick to well-maintained roads and campgrounds. Choose a van with 4×4 features if you expect to tackle rugged terrain.
Q3: How important is fuel efficiency for a camper van? A3: Fuel efficiency is significant, especially for long road trips. Vans with fuel-efficient engines can help you save on fuel costs during your adventures. Consider the size of the van and its engine when evaluating its fuel efficiency.
Q4: Can I convert any van into a camper? A4: While many vans can be converted into campers, some are better suited for this purpose due to their size, interior layout, and features. The choice of van depends on your specific needs and preferences for your camper conversion project.
Q5: What are the advantages of buying a used van for conversion? A5: Buying a used van can be more budget-friendly than purchasing a new one. It allows you to allocate more of your budget toward the conversion itself. However, ensure that you thoroughly inspect the used van for any potential issues before making a purchase.
Sources
carsguide.com.au, unsplash.com, flickr.com, carsales.com.au
Pricing is an average based on what we witnessed from Carsales and Facebook Marketplace
Sizing and dimensions will differ from year model, series and other factors
