Buying or converting a campervan: The pros & cons

A campervan is an incredible way to explore both the UK and beyond, bringing the comforts of home on the road with you.

Campervans provide the perfect middle ground between traditional transport and the luxury of glamping or hotels, ticking a lot of boxes.

With campervans growing in popularity, one common question for new owners is whether to buy a ready-made campervan or convert a van yourself. Each approach has its pros and cons, and it's worth considering which option best suits your needs before making a decision.

Buying a campervan

Buying a new campervan is often the simpler, more luxurious choice. Purpose-built and professionally crafted, these vehicles bring quality and convenience in one package.

Pros:

Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of buying a professionally made campervan is convenience. You can walk into a dealership, pick a model, and drive away ready for adventure.

Quality assurance: Quality is a primary benefit of buying over converting. Established manufacturers like Swift adhere to strict safety and quality standards. For example, all Swift products are National Caravan Council (NCC) approved, meeting British and European safety regulations for ultimate peace of mind. Swift’s Ford-based Monza and Trekker models also hold Ford Pro Converter status, meaning Ford has endorsed them as safe and reliable.

Warranty and support: New campervans come with warranties, providing peace of mind for mechanical issues and covering finishes, fixtures, and fittings. You’ll also have access to customer support for years to come.

Variety of options: There are many models to choose from, catering to different budgets, sizes, and specifications. Whether you want a compact camper or a spacious model for longer trips, there's an option to suit your needs.

Instant usability: A purchased campervan is ready to go as soon as you pick it up. No need to design layouts, source materials, or manage the conversion process; simply pack and set off.

Cons:

Limited customisation: While some campervans allow for customisation, you may have to compromise on certain features or layouts if the options available don't fully match your vision.

Depreciation: Like any vehicle, campervans depreciate over time, though they often retain value better than cars. This is a factor if you’re considering future resale, though it’s the same for a new van.

Potential repairs: Outside of the warranty period, campervans may sometimes be more complex to repair than regular vans due to specialised parts and layouts. It's worth considering maintenance options.

Converting a campervan

Converting a campervan has its own appeal and is a growing trend among UK travellers who enjoy hands-on projects and complete customisation.

Pros:

Complete customisation: The primary advantage of converting your own campervan is the freedom to design everything according to your preferences. From layout to appliances, it’s entirely up to you.

Cost-effective: Converting can be more affordable than buying new, especially if you source second-hand materials or budget-friendly options.

Satisfaction of DIY: Building a campervan offers a unique satisfaction. For many, it's a rewarding project that evolves over time and reflects personal style.

Personal touch: A converted campervan is often one-of-a-kind, tailored to suit your specific needs and style. Knowing the vehicle inside out also makes it easier to modify or upgrade.

Potential resale value: If well-executed, a conversion can increase the van's resale value. Buyers often appreciate thoughtful, well-crafted conversions.

Cons:

Time-consuming: Converting a campervan requires significant time for planning, sourcing, and building. Depending on complexity, this can take weeks or months.

Skill requirements: Successful conversions often require skills like woodworking, plumbing, and electrical work. Hiring professionals is an option, but it can add costs.

Initial outlay on tools and materials: If you’re starting from scratch, you'll need to invest in tools and materials, which can offset cost savings.

Potential for mistakes: DIY conversions come with risks. Mistakes in layout or installation can lead to costly repairs or compromise safety.

Disclaimer: If you decide to convert a van into a campervan, be aware that electrical and gas installations are complex and carry significant risks, both during installation and for the vehicle’s safety. We strongly recommend hiring a qualified professional to handle these aspects or, at minimum, having a professional review your work before use.

Additionally, your converted van must meet specific road safety requirements, pass its MOT, and be reported to your insurer to ensure it is adequately covered.

Summary

In summary, both buying and converting have their own advantages and challenges. Buying a campervan offers the simplicity of a turn-key solution with guaranteed quality and support, while converting allows for complete customisation and can be more budget-friendly if done right.

Ultimately, the joy of campervan ownership lies in the adventures you’ll embark on and the memories you’ll make, regardless of how you arrive at your dream vehicle. Weigh the pros and cons carefully and choose the path that will lead you to your next great journey on the road!