Introduction
With the rising popularity of remote work, digital nomadism, and eco-conscious travel, more people are investing in campervan conversions — not just as a lifestyle choice, but as a savvy financial decision. Whether you’re heading off-grid for a weekend or converting your van for full-time vanlife, one big question remains:
Is it dead money — or a smart investment?
Spoiler: A well-designed, high-quality campervan can retain surprising value — often outperforming standard motorhomes or self-builds in terms of resale potential.
In this blog, we’ll break down:
- Campervan depreciation vs regular vehicles
- Realistic value retention over five years
- What influences resale value
- How Bhode Vans designs with longevity in mind
- FAQs to help guide your decision
Do Campervans Depreciate Like Cars?
Not quite.
New cars typically lose:
- 20% of value in year one
- 15% per year thereafter
(Source: AutoTrader, Parkers, The AA)
However, campervan conversions — particularly high-quality bespoke builds — don’t follow this trend.
High-Quality Campervan Conversions:
- Retain 70–80% of their value after 3 years
- Maintain desirability due to custom layouts, materials, and build quality
- Often command premium resale prices on marketplaces like Quirky Campers, eBay, and specialist groups
In contrast, factory-built motorhomes can depreciate 25–35% in 3 years due to their higher initial cost and mass-produced layouts.
Five-Year Cost & Value Breakdown
Let’s assume you buy a 3-year-old base van for £20,000 and spend £35,000 on a Bhode-level conversion, totalling £55,000. Here’s what value retention could look like:
Depreciation Table
| Year | Estimated Value | Depreciation |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | £55,000 | — |
| Year 2 | £48,000 | -13% |
| Year 3 | £42,000 | -12.5% |
| Year 4 | £37,000 | -12% |
| Year 5 | £32,000 | -13.5% |
💡 That’s a 42% total depreciation over five years — still better than many new cars and significantly stronger than most motorhomes.
Factors That Boost Resale Value
1. Van Make & Model:
- VW Transporter, Ford Transit Custom, and Mercedes Sprinter hold value exceptionally well.
2. Conversion Quality:
- Durable materials, smart layouts, and pro craftsmanship = buyer confidence.
3. Layout Practicality:
- The Bhode NOMAD layout is a standout: 5 belted seats, pop-top option, sleeps up to 6 Ideal for families and couples alike.
4. Well-Maintained Record:
- Keep service history, conversion invoices, manuals, and receipts.
5. Good Design Choices:
- Choosing timeless finishes, efficient storage, and flexible spaces (e.g., Murphy beds, removable tables) can keep your van appealing longer.
Self-Builds: Do They Hold Value?
Self-build campervans can look great on paper — especially if you’re handy — but they can struggle with resale. Why?
- Buyers worry about safety (especially electrics and gas)
- No formal certification or warranty
- Interior may not suit all lifestyles
Unless you’re highly skilled, a pro conversion offers better resale confidence — and less hassle.
When’s the Best Time to Sell?
Ideally, sell between years 3–5:
- Depreciation slows
- Van still feels ‘nearly new’
- Conversion is still modern
This window gives you good use and a stronger return if you do decide to part ways with your van.
Bhode Builds: Designed for Longevity
At Bhode Vans, we design with the future in mind. Our Bhode NOMAD layout, for instance, is:
- Family- and couple-friendly
- Modular in design (so components can be upgraded)
- Built with high-end fittings that stand the test of time
Whether you plan to keep your camper for life or sell in a few years, we help ensure your investment is protected.
FAQs: Campervan Conversion & Investment
Q: Are campervan conversions really worth the money?
A: Yes — particularly bespoke conversions using reputable builders and popular base vans. They tend to retain value well and offer flexibility in how you use them.
Q: What brands of van hold their value best?
A: VW Transporters, Ford Transit Customs, and Mercedes Sprinters are typically strongest for resale.
Q: What’s the biggest factor in resale value?
A: Build quality. A well-finished, practical layout using durable materials is more important than gimmicks or flashy finishes.
Q: Is it better to buy new or used?
A: A good condition used van with a new conversion often offers better value than buying a brand-new factory camper.
Q: Can I rent out my campervan to help recoup costs?
A: Absolutely. Many Bhode owners list their vans on Quirky Campers or Goboony to offset running costs.
Q: Will converting a van void the warranty?
A: Not necessarily. If done professionally with appropriate parts and practices, many base vehicle warranties remain intact — but always check with your manufacturer first.
Final Thoughts: More Than a Van — It’s an Asset
A campervan isn’t just a vehicle — it’s a memory-maker, an office with a view, and potentially a smart investment. With the right layout, build, and care, it can hold its value far better than manyother vehicles.
If you’re looking for a conversion that’s designed to last and appeal to future buyers, we’d love to chat.
First step toward your adventure-ready investment.
Five-Year Cost Comparison: Campervan vs. Traditional Travel
| Category | Campervan Conversion | Traditional Travel |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Investment | £30,000 | £0 |
| Accommodation Costs | £0 (self-contained) | £25,000 |
| Transport Costs | £10,000 (fuel & maintenance) | £15,000 (flights & rental cars) |
| Food Expenses | £5,000 (self-cooked meals) | £12,500 (restaurants & dining out) |
| Resale Value (after 5 years) | £20,000 | £0 |
| Total 5-Year Cost | £25,000 | £52,500 |
