With more people ditching the traditional home for the freedom of the open road, the demand for versatile, reliable, and comfortable vans has skyrocketed. Whether you're planning to take short weekend getaways or dive headfirst into full-time van life, picking the right van is crucial.
Today, we’ll be diving into some of the best vans for van life, with a special spotlight on the Mercedes Sprinter - one of the most popular choices for van dwellers. We’ll also take a look at other contenders, such as the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster, and explore how Wanderful Wheels can turn your van life dream into reality!
What Makes a Great Van for Van Life?
Choosing the perfect van isn’t just about picking the most visually appealing model or the one with the most features. It’s about finding the right balance of space, comfort, reliability, and customization potential. Let’s break down the essentials you should look for when choosing a van for your van life journey:
A. Space and Layout
One of the first things you’ll notice when you step inside a van is how much space you have (or don’t have). The van you choose needs to have enough room to function as both your transportation and your living space. The best vans offer flexible layouts that allow for various setups depending on your needs - be it sleeping, cooking, or working remotely.
Pro tip: Vans like the Mercedes Sprinter offer a high roof option, which provides more standing room and space for overhead storage, making it easier to feel at home on the road.
B. Fuel Efficiency
Let’s face it, fuel costs add up, especially when your home is on wheels. A van’s fuel efficiency directly impacts how much it costs to keep moving. While larger vans may give you more room to spread out, they often guzzle more gas. On the flip side, smaller vans tend to be more fuel-efficient but might require some compromises in space.
C. Reliability and Maintenance
Adventure awaits - but only if your van keeps up! When you’re miles away from civilization, the last thing you need is a breakdown. That’s why reliability is key. Brands like Mercedes, Ford, and Ram have built their reputations on durability, but it’s worth considering the ease of maintenance and availability of parts when choosing your van.
D. Customization Potential
For van lifers, one size definitely doesn’t fit all. The beauty of van life lies in the ability to tailor your space to fit your unique needs. Whether it’s adding solar panels, a mini-kitchen, or extra insulation for winter camping, the best vans offer high customization potential. At Wanderful Wheels, we specialize in transforming ordinary vans into personalized, adventure-ready homes on wheels.
Top Vans for Van Life
Now that we’ve covered the basics of what makes a van great for van life, let’s dive into some of the best options on the market today.
A. Mercedes Sprinter
The Mercedes Sprinter is hands-down one of the top choices for van lifers, and for good reason. This powerhouse of a van offers a blend of luxury, versatility, and durability that’s hard to beat. Available in both high-roof and extended-length models, the Sprinter provides ample space for full-time living. Plus, with the all-wheel-drive option, it’s ready to take on off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Key Features:
High roof for extra headroom
Multiple length options
All wheel drive option
Best off roading capabilities
Exceptional reliability and longevity
Why is it the top choice? The Sprinter is known for its robust build and its extensive customization potential. Wanderful Wheels can turn this van into a fully functional mobile home, with everything from custom cabinetry to solar-powered electrical systems. Whether you’re a solo traveler or hitting the road with a partner, the Sprinter is versatile enough to meet your needs.
B. Ford Transit
Next up is the Ford Transit, a solid competitor to the Sprinter. The Transit is well-known for its affordability compared to the Sprinter, while still offering a lot of the same features. It comes in various lengths and roof heights, making it flexible for van life conversions.
Key Features:
Affordable pricing
Multiple configurations (including high-roof models)
Easier to find parts and services (compared to Mercedes)
Smooth and comfortable ride
While the Ford Transit may not have the luxury appeal of the Sprinter, it’s a practical option for van lifers on a budget. It’s easy to maintain and parts are generally more affordable, making long-term maintenance less of a headache. At Wanderful Wheels, we’ve worked with many clients to turn Transits into cozy, functional homes on wheels. The hardest part with Transit Vans is finding one! Ford continues to have manufacturing delays and limited Transits available.
C. Ram ProMaster
Finally, the Ram ProMaster offers a unique blend of spaciousness and affordability. One of its key selling points is the fact that it’s a front-wheel drive, which can make driving and handling easier, particularly in bad weather or on rough terrain. Its boxy design also maximizes interior space, making it a great option for conversions.
Key Features:
Front-wheel drive for better handling
Lower price point
Wide and boxy interior for easier builds
High roof option
While the ProMaster may not have the same reputation for longevity as the Sprinter, it’s a strong contender for van lifers who prioritize ease of driving and interior space. Wanderful Wheels has done some amazing ProMaster builds, outfitting them with everything from beds to showers to mobile workspaces.
Why Choose Wanderful Wheels for Your Van Life Journey?
Choosing the right van is just the first step. The next (and arguably most exciting) part is making it your own! That’s where Wanderful Wheels comes in.
We specialize in taking stock vans and turning them into fully customized, off-grid-ready homes. Whether you’re looking for a simple conversion with a bed and kitchenette or a decked-out mobile home with all the bells and whistles, we’ve got you covered.
Why Wanderful Wheels?
Expert craftsmanship with attention to detail
Custom layouts designed to meet your specific needs
High-quality materials for durability and comfort
Extensive experience in Sprinter, Transit, and ProMaster conversions
But don’t just take our word for it - our satisfied customers speak for themselves. Check out our testimonials to hear how we’ve helped van lifers across the country hit the road in style and comfort.
You can also take advantage of various special promotions available on our website, like a recent promotion offering a free flight to Colorado to pick up your van!
Conclusion
Choosing the best van for van life is no small task, but by focusing on key factors like space, fuel efficiency, reliability, and customization potential, you can narrow down your options. The Mercedes Sprinter, with its blend of luxury, durability, and versatility, is a top choice. However, the Ford Transit and Ram ProMaster also offer excellent options depending on your budget and needs.
Ready to hit the road? Wanderful Wheels is here to help you make your van life dream a reality. From custom builds to expert advice, we’re your go-to partner for all things van life. Explore our customization services or reach out to start planning your adventure today!