Have you ever dreamed of hitting the open road, freedom on four wheels, and adventure at every turn? For many, a Perfect Campervan isn’t just a vehicle; it represents a lifestyle filled with travel, spontaneity, and exploration. But before you jump headfirst into the world of campervan living, there are a few important questions worth asking.
At Bhode Vans, we’ve helped countless individuals and families navigate these exact decisions. Whether you’re after a rugged off-grid setup or a cosy mobile home,understanding your needs from the start can save time, money, and a few headaches down the road.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll explore the crucial considerations when choosing your dream campervan. From layout and lifestyle to budget and driving comfort, here are the 10 essential questions to ask before making the leap.
What is Your Primary Purpose for the Campervan?
Are you planning weekend getaways, full-time van life, or European road trips? Defining your purpose early on can help guide key decisions around layout, size, and features. For instance, at Bhode Vans, we design conversions tailored to everything from short escapes to full-time family touring.
How Many People Will Be Using the Campervan Regularly?
A solo traveller’s setup looks very different to a family of five. Consider who will be travelling with you, how often, and for how long. Do you need belted travel seats forevery person? Extra sleeping spaces?
💡 Our Bhode Two layout offers five belted seats and space to sleep up to six with a pop-top—ideal for growing families.
What Features Are Essential to You?
List your non-negotiables. Do you need a fixed bed? A toilet and shower? Off-grid electrics? Or will a more minimalist setup do the job? Custom campervans can be built around your lifestyle, but prioritising what matters most will make the build far mor efficient.
What’s Your Budget?
At Bhode Vans, we offer different package levels to suit a range of budgets, and we’re happy to chat through what’s possible within your price range.
How Comfortable Are You Driving a Larger Vehicle?
A long-wheelbase van offers more interior space but can be intimidating if you’re not used to it. If you’ve never driven anything bigger than a car, you might start with a mid-size van.
💬 We often use L3H2 vans for conversions—plenty of room, but still manageable on the road.
Do You Want a New or Used Base Vehicle?
New vans come with warranties and fewer surprises—but they cost more. Used vans can save you thousands but should be carefully vetted for rust, mileage, and service history
Read RAC’s used van buying checklist
We help clients source the right base vehicle depending on their plans and budget.
How Important is Sustainability?
If reducing your environmental impact is a priority, consider options like solar panels, efficient appliances, eco insulation, and gas-free setups.
What’s Your Plan for Maintenance and Upgrades?
A well-built campervan will need less day-to-day maintenance, but you’ll still want a plan for servicing and potential future upgrades. Will you handle it yourself or use a professional?
Also consider where you’ll store it—on the street, in a garage, or in secure storage?
Are You Ready for the Lifestyle Shift?
Van life is freeing—but it’s also a big change. Less space. More planning. New routines. We always encourage potential buyers to try a rental or a few short trips first to see how it feels.
What Happens After the Purchase?
The van might be ready, but what about you? Start planning your first adventure. Join online communities. Follow vanlife blogs. Most importantly, make it your own.
Whether it’s weekends in Wales or months in the Med, your campervan should reflect your lifestyle—not just look good in photos.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the perfect campervan isn’t about finding a one-size-fits-all solution—it’s about building something that fits your life.
At Bhode Vans, we work with you to design a van that meets your needs today and grows with you over time. From layout to finish, we focus on craftsmanship, comfort, and function.
👉 If you’re ready to take the next step, check out our conversion packages or get in touch for a no-pressure chat.
Adventure starts with asking the right questions—and you’re already on your way.
FAQ
What’s the best campervan for a family?
Look for belted seating, flexible sleeping (like a pop-top), and a layout that keeps chaos to aminimum. Our Bhode Two is a great example.
How much does a bespoke conversion cost?
It varies depending on features, but we offer clear pricing tiers so you can plan confidently.
Should I buy the van first or speak to a converter?
We recommend speaking to a conversion company first to avoid buying something that doesn’t suit our needs.
