An escape from the confines of conventional life, inspiration from works like On the Road, and the insatiable feeling of wanderlust are just a few reasons many have dreamed of a life less tethered. And while the COVID-19 pandemic was fraught with hardships, there was at least one silver lining - the rapid adoption of flexible work.
The world was already online, the pandemic simply illuminated how productive society can be outside the confines of an office setting. When given the choice to work from anywhere, more than a few people decided to work from everywhere by taking life on the road in a camper van.
But it’s not just the work-from-homers who are adopting van life: camper vans also provide an escape into nature without sacrificing the comfort and convenience of home. And unlike an RV, they’re easy to drive; you can park them in a downtown area or take them fully off the grid. If you’re ready to take the plunge and see what all the fuss is about, let’s take a look at how much a camper van really costs.
First things first: The Van
What’s the single biggest expense when buying a camper van? The van itself. Anyone in the market for a camper van, house, or loaf of bread in the last few years has undoubtedly encountered a rapid rate of inflation, with the automotive industry taking one of the hardest hits. Since 2020, the cost of a new vehicle has increased nearly 30%. Along with this inflation, tech advancements and a growing variety of gear have contributed significantly to the increase in the cost of camper vans.
On the bright side, vans now have innovative technology that improves overall safety and comfort. These advanced features include 360-degree cameras, blind spot assistance, large touchscreen monitors, and smart tech like adaptive cruise control.
With all that in mind, how much should you budget for a new van? Here’s a look at some of the top brands:
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter AWD: $65,000 - $85,000
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter is the gold standard of camper van conversions, known for its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and fuel economy.
Ram ProMaster: $50,000 - $65,000
The Ram ProMaster is recognized for its practical design, cargo capacity, and user-friendly features.
Ford Transit: $41,955 - $65,0000
The Ford Transit is best known for its extensive range of configurations and efficient performance.
Any of these models would make a suitable camper van, with the choice boiling down to individual needs and preferences. It’s important to consider which features matter most to you - cargo space, fuel efficiency, technology features, and overall suitability - and how they influence the overall budget. See our range of available vans here.
Extra! Extra! Material Costs
After deciding which van suits your needs, the next big expenditure is what features to include. The rise in popularity of camper vans means that van-lifers have more choices than ever, such as cutting-edge entertainment systems, energy-efficient appliances, off-grid electrical systems, and space-saving storage solutions. Those opting for a van conversion should take a close look at the costs of these additional materials and budget accordingly.
Material Costs Breakdown:
1: Off-the-grid electrical systems - $10,000 to $30,000
There have been some major tech improvements in off-the-grid electrical systems in recent years. One of these improvements is that vans can now easily carry over 1000 AH of battery storage. Lithium batteries, in particular, have become the go-to choice due to their smaller size, lighter weight, and greater storage capacity. Complementing these advancements are solar options tailored specifically for camper vans, with panels designed to fit unique roof shapes of different models. These solar panels are not only more efficient but also offer flexible mounting options and integrated charge controllers.
2: Appliance - $5,000 to $20,000
When it comes to van conversions, integrating more efficient appliances is paramount. Efficient air conditioners and heaters designed specifically for vans are essential for providing comfort in various climates. The availability of DC (direct current) appliances, particularly refrigerators, offers camper van owners a range of sizes and options that cater to their needs. The cost of these appliances ranges from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on brand, capacity, and energy efficiency.
3: Interior build - $30,000 to $200,000
Camper van interior builds vary widely in cost based on the features you want for basic vs full-time living. These costs are impacted by the quality of materials, specific features, and the level of customization. A basic interior build might include all the essential features for a comfortable camping experience, like basic seating and sleeping arrangements, and might cost as little as $5,000, whereas a high-end build may include hardwood floors, a fully-equipped kitchen, and a smart home system, with prices hitting up to $200,000 or more.
4: Exterior Gear - $500 to $50,000
No camper van conversion is complete without exterior features. These include roof racks, bumpers, lighting, suspension upgrades, and exterior storage, all to ensure your family and gear make it to your destination in one piece. There are many options, with prices varying widely depending on materials. Opting for lightweight, durable materials, such as aluminum, can significantly increase costs. For example, a roof rack designed to carry rec equipment or a rooftop tent can range from $1500 to $7000 or more. Suspension upgrades, crucial for those who like to take things off-road, can range from $ 5,000-$7,000+.
Average Build Costs at Wanderful Wheels
Building your dream van is an exciting venture, and understanding the costs is crucial for planning. The average camper van built at Wanderful Wheels works out to around $75,000, excluding the price of the van itself. As noted above, this cost greatly varies depending on the preferences and requirements of each individual van-lifer. Costs can span from $45,000 for a functional, minimalist build to a more luxurious and feature-rich build that may reach up to $200,000 or more. The wide range in costs underscores the potential for customization, ensuring each build is specifically suited to the individual’s needs. For a specific valuation, contact us for an estimate.
Financing
Good news, prospective van lifers - financing for camper vans has evolved significantly in the last 5 years. There are far more options these days, including the option for a long-term RV loan that provides extended repayment options more in line with the longevity of your standard camper van. As with any line of financing, it’s best to shop around to ensure the best interest rates and terms. Many of our clients have found the best rates through smaller banks and credit unions. We also work with a few institutions to provide more financing options for our clients.
Summary
Whether it's for the odd adventure out or a more permanent housing solution, embarking on a camper van build is an exciting choice. It’s important to understand what features are important for your individual build and carefully research what options are available to stay within your budget.
If you’re ready to jump into van life, contact us to get started!