If you’re searching for the best large vans for campervan conversion UK, this guide has you covered. If you want to spend extended periods of time on the road or want to explore the world in a camper, you’re not alone. More people than ever are buying or converting campers—and if the vans covered in our best vans for camper conversion are a little small for your needs, this guide is for you.
Here we explore the best large vans for campervan conversions in the UK—ideal for those building off-grid setups, family campers, or full-time living vans.
Who’s This Guide For?
- First-time converters planning a big layout (bathroom, fixed bed, storage)
- Upgraders moving on from a smaller van (e.g. Transporter to Sprinter)
- DIY builders wondering which large van fits their off-grid dream
- Anyone considering the Bhode Nomad package—our ideal solution for large van conversions
What Makes a Great Large Van for Conversion?
- Generous payload under 3.5 tonnes for standard driving licences
- Easy-to-source conversion products (beds, windows, insulation, etc.)
- Solid fuel economy, even when fully loaded
- Comfortable handling, modern tech, and reliability
- Value on the second-hand market, ideally 3 years old with <30k mileage
📦 Looking for the ideal build for a large van? Check out the Bhode Nomad package — perfect for Sprinters, Boxers and other full-length campers.
Top 5 Best Large Vans for Campervan Conversion in the UK
Volkswagen Crafter
The Crafter brings car-like refinement to a huge van platform. You’ll get a high driving position, VW safety features (like adaptive cruise and lane assist), and loads of options for conversion.
Need-to-Know: VW Crafter Conversion Facts
- Unladen Weight: ~2,300 kg
- Payload to 3.5t: ~1,200 kg
- MPG (Loaded): 28–32 mpg
- Tech: Adaptive cruise, park assist, Apple CarPlay
- Handling: Light steering, strong brakes, great visibility
- Conversion Kit Market: Excellent (pop-tops, full shower systems, beds)
- Used Price (3 yrs / ~30k miles): £23,000–£25,000
New Price: £40,000+
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter LWB
Sprinters are a favourite among full-time van-lifers for good reason. Their size, tech, and comfort make them great for long-term travel and off-grid conversion.
Need-to-Know: Sprinter Conversion Facts
- Unladen Weight: ~2,400 kg
- Payload to 3.5t: ~1,100 kg
- MPG (Loaded): 27–31 mpg
- Tech: MBUX infotainment, heated seats, optional AWD
- Handling: Excellent on motorways, more sensitive in wind
- Conversion Kit Market: Very strong (shower trays, units, electrics)
- Used Price (3 yrs / ~30k miles): £20,000–£22,000
New Price: £42,000+
See the Bhode Nomad – our flagship large van conversion
Ford Transit LWB
Ford’s large Transit offers incredible practicality with wide servicing access and strong aftermarket support. Great balance of cost and space.
Need-to-Know: Transit LWB Conversion Facts
- Unladen Weight: ~2,300 kg
- Payload to 3.5t: ~1,200 kg
- MPG (Loaded): 30–34 mpg
- Tech: SYNC3, EcoBlue diesel, optional AWD
- Handling: Predictable and composed, great turning circle
- Conversion Kit Market: Excellent (roof kits, modular layouts)
- Used Price (3 yrs / ~30k miles): £17,000–£19,000
New Price: £35,000+
Read our guide to choosing between buying or converting
Renault Master
An underdog with serious merit—spacious, efficient, and surprisingly comfortable.
Need-to-Know: Renault Master Conversion Facts
- Unladen Weight: ~2,280 kg
- Payload to 3.5t: ~1,220 kg
- MPG (Loaded): 30–33 mpg
- Tech: Decent base kit; ZE electric variant incoming
- Handling: Light clutch, firm ride
- Conversion Kit Market: Solid support, less premium
- Used Price (3 yrs / ~30k miles): £14,000–£16,000
- New Price: £28,000–£32,000
Talk to us about sourcing a Master
Citroën Relay / Peugeot Boxer
Identical vans with different badges—favourites of UK converters for their square shape and generous sizing.
Need-to-Know: Relay/Boxer Conversion Facts
- Unladen Weight: ~2,150 kg
- Payload to 3.5t: ~1,350 kg (best in class!)
- MPG (Loaded): 32–35 mpg
- Tech: Basic but functional
- Handling: Surprisingly agile, low road noise
- Conversion Kit Market: Huge (especially for showers and fixed beds)
- Used Price (3 yrs / ~30k miles): £18,000–£20,000
- New Price: £26,000–£29,000
➡️ Learn more about our gas-free off-grid setups
Best Large Vans for Campervan Conversion UK – Comparison Table
| Van | Unladen (kg) | Payload (kg) | MPG Loaded | Tech & Comfort | Kit Availability | Used Price | New Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VW Crafter | 2,300 | 1,200 | 28–32 | Excellent | Excellent | £23k–£25k | £40k+ |
| Mercedes Sprinter LWB | 2,400 | 1,100 | 27–31 | Premium | Very Strong | £20k–£22k | £42k+ |
| Ford Transit LWB | 2,300 | 1,200 | 30–34 | Great | Excellent | £17k–£19k | £35k+ |
| Renault Master | 2,280 | 1,220 | 30–33 | Good | Moderate | £14k–£16k | £28k–£32k |
| Citroën Relay / Peugeot Boxer | 2,150 | 1,350 | 32–35 | Basic | Huge | £18k–£20k | £26k–£29k |
🚐 Want to see what’s available near you? Browse used large panel vans on AutoTrader – pre-filtered for ideal campervan base vehicles across the UK.
Bonus: Alternative Large Van Options
Looking for something more adventurous?
- Luton vans – high roof, over-cab sleeping space, ideal for big builds
- Ex-Army trucks – rugged, long-lasting, and surprisingly available
- Horse boxes – spacious, insulated, and road-legal once converted
- Old buses – massive interior volume, perfect for family or workshop setups
Final Thoughts
If you need the room to dream big—a full shower, fixed bed, dining setup, and off-grid electrics—you’re going to need a large van.
Whatever your adventure style, the vans above rank among the best large vans for campervan conversion UK buyers can invest in this year.
Bhode Vans can help you:
- Source the right van
- Design a custom conversion
- Stay within weight limits
- Create a layout that works for real-world travel
👉 Book a free consultation and let’s get started.
➡️ Read next: How much does a campervan conversion cost?
➡️ Explore the Bhode Nomad – our ultimate off-grid camper
