How much does it cost to convert a van into a campervan?
Thinking of getting a campervan? Is a life/holiday on the open road calling you?
With the cost of a new or used campervan ranging from £20,000 to more than £100,000, an option could be to sell a second-hand vehicle and buy a van to convert into a campervan. This involves making changes to the van’s
✅ Insulation
✅ Flooring
✅ Electrical systems
✅ Furniture
Depending on what you want and your DIY skills, doing it yourself usually costs between £500 and £15,000. Getting a professional outfit to do the work will also add to this. But compared to buying a campervan, you’re still likely to be quids in!
So, let’s have a look at what’s involved to help you decide on your budget and what features you’d want with your converted campervan.
- What influences the cost of converting a van into a campervan?
- A closer look at conversion types and their costs
- Breaking down the cost of converting your van into a campervan
- FAQs
What influences the cost of converting a van into a campervan?
Model and condition of van:
The van’s model and condition significantly impact the cost.
Older, used vans are cheaper upfront but may require extensive repairs. Newer models, while more expensive, offer better reliability and lower maintenance. Popular models like the VW Transporter or Ford Transit have a range of aftermarket parts that greatly help conversions.
The scale of the conversion and whether it’s a DIY or professional job
It goes without saying – the more work you want done, the more expensive it’ll be. And as mentioned, another cost factor is whether you do it yourself or go professionally.
DIY conversions can be budget-friendly, especially if you repurpose materials and do most of the work yourself. However, they require significant time, skill, and effort. On the other hand, professional services offer expertise and quality but come at a higher price, potentially adding thousands to your budget.
An honest assessment of your skills, available time, and budget will help determine the best approach for your project.
Essential features vs luxury additions
Balancing essential features and luxury additions is crucial for making sure you stay on budget.
Essentials include insulation, ventilation, a bed, and basic kitchen facilities. While luxury additions like custom cabinets, high-end appliances, and advanced electrical systems can quickly increase costs.
Prioritising your needs over wants helps keep expenses in check and ensures a practical, enjoyable campervan without seeing you overspend on non-essentials.
Do you really need that chandelier?
Material quality and availability
Material quality and availability are crucial in determining the cost of your campervan conversion and the length of its life.
High-quality materials assure durability and better performance but come at a higher price. Whereas, choosing readily available materials can save money and time and help avoid project delays.
A closer look at conversion types and their costs
| Conversion type | Cost | Features | Materials | For people looking to |
| Budget-friendly | £500-£3,000 | – Adequate insulation – Simple bed setup – Basic kitchen facilities – Minimal plumbing | Repurposed | Stick to a tight budget |
| Mid-tier | £3,000-£8,000 | – Better insulation – Comfortable – More sophisticated electrics – Upgraded kitchen facilities | Repurposed/high-end | Have a cost-effective solution while enjoying a bit of comfort |
| High-endluxury | £8,000-£15,000 | – Quality insulation – Custom cabinetry – High-end appliances – Advanced electrical systems | Luxury (hardwood, leather) | Live in ultimate comfort, style and convenience in their campervan |
Breaking down the cost of converting your van into a campervan
Insulation and interior panelling
Insulation materials:
- Foam board: £50 – £150
- Spray foam: £200 – £500
- Reflective insulation: £30 – £100
Interior panelling:
- Plywood: £100 – £300
- Tongue and groove: £150 – £400
- Vinyl: £100 – £250
Electrical system upgrades
Basic setup:
- Battery and inverter: £200 – £500
- Wiring and fuse box: £50 – £150
Advanced features:
- Solar panels: £300 – £1,000
- Additional outlets and USB ports: £50 – £200
- Battery management systems: £200 – £600
Appliances:
- Fridge: £300 – £800
- Microwave: £50 – £150
Plumbing and water systems
Basic setup:
- Portable water containers: £20 – £50
- Manual pump: £10 – £30
Advanced systems:
- Fixed water tanks: £100 – £300
- Electric pump: £50 – £150
- Sink and tap: £50 – £200
- Hot water heater: £100 – £300
Greywater systems:
- Basic setup: £20 – £100
Toilets:
- Composting toilet: £500 – £1,000
- Cassette toilet: £50 – £200
Custom furniture and storage solutions
Beds:
- Simple fold-out bed: £100 – £300
- Built-in bed with storage: £200 – £500
Cabinets and shelving:
- Basic plywood cabinets: £100 – £300
- Custom-built cabinets: £300 – £1,000
Multi-use furniture:
- Fold-out table: £50 – £200
- Convertible seating/bed: £100 – £400
Materials:
- Lightweight wood: £100 – £300
- Durable hardware: £50 – £200
FAQs
What’s the best budget van to convert into a campervan?
The UK’s most popular van, the Ford Transit, is often considered the best budget van for conversion due to its affordability, reliability, and ample space. Its wide availability means you can find used models at reasonable prices. And there’s a large community for tips and support.
Can you legally convert a van into a campervan?
Yes, you can legally convert a van into a campervan. However, it must meet specific requirements such as having a fixed bed, cooking facilities, and storage.
Do I need to tell DVLA if I convert a van?
Yes, you must inform the DVLA if you convert a van into a campervan. This ensures the vehicle is reclassified correctly on your V5C registration document, which can affect road tax, insurance, and legal compliance.
Ready to sell?
Want to read more about owning, valuing and selling your van? Check out more of our guides here, covering everything from depreciation and maintaining your van’s value. Understand your car’s worth in the wider market.