The world abounds with opportunities for exploration, and there’s no better way to enjoy them all than in a trusty camper van. RV travel offers a level of independence and freedom that only camping can match, but it’s a lot more comfortable.

Are you among the thousands of newly minted RV enthusiasts inspired to try this type of travel? The open road awaits; read on to explore how you can choose the best camper vans for your next adventure.

Defining the Best Camper Vans for You

It’s best to decide what you expect from your camper van before you go shopping for one. Once you get out there, you’ll discover a dizzying array of sizes and designs across a tremendous price range. These are the criteria to consider when making your choice:

Your Budget

Budget is the single most important criterion when choosing a camper van. These vehicles can cost anything between $6000 and several hundred thousand dollars.

Buying a used camper van has several benefits, especially when it comes to price, but a new camper van excels in terms of reliability and warranties. You must have a clear budget in mind before you start researching your RV options.

Camper Van Size

Vehicles suited to a camper van trip range from petite minivans to enormous extra-wide, extra-long cargo vans. Larger vans will give you more living space, but they’re more challenging to drive and park.

If you prefer to spend most of your time outside, you might prefer a camper van with an outside cooking area and shower. To experience the RV lifestyle more fully, you should choose a van with more interior features and space.

The size of the camper van you need is directly dependent on how many people are traveling. One person or a couple will need less space than a small family with young children.

Fuel Economy

Overall, a camping road trip is much cheaper than a hotel stay, but that all depends on your fuel costs. Old-school Class-B camper vans, like the VW camper van, may cost less to buy upfront, but they lack the modern technology to give you more miles per gallon.

Diesel-powered vans are generally more economical over long distances, despite the high cost of this fuel. They’re a little harder to find than gas-powered ones, though, so if you’re in a rush, this might not be an option.

Rent vs. Buy vs. Build

If this is your first RV road trip, or if you’re testing the waters regarding RV road trips, it’s always better to rent an RV. This gives you a chance to see whether you’re suited to this type of travel and can also provide clues about which type of camper van suits your needs best.

Once you’ve fallen in love with this type of travel, you’ve got a choice between orchestrating a van conversion, arranging a custom van conversion, or buying an RV that’s ready to go.

DIY enthusiasts will find that a van conversion gives them a great sense of satisfaction. If you’re in love with classic travel options, Vanagon parts are relatively easy to find, and you’ll find a large community of van conversion enthusiasts to lean on.

Your Travel Style

If stealth camping in the city is your aim, you need to choose a van that conceals your presence when you’re inside it, so you can camp incognito.

Boondockers need self-sufficient vans with all the bells and whistles for a comfortable stay. These features include solar power or a generator for backup power, and water tanks for fresh and gray water.

Do you plan to travel off-road? Not all vans are equipped for the rigors of the rough road. You can choose camper vans with 4WD and off-road tires, so you don’t end up stuck.

Top Choices for Long-Distance RV Travel

To help narrow down your choices, we’ve scoured the RV dealerships and checked the facts to come up with some suggestions. Here they are:

Airstream Interstate 19X

This is a more compact version of the popular Airstream Interstate stable. It has all the luxuries associated with this beloved brand wrapped up in a rugged frame.

It’s a versatile vehicle with off-road capabilities, thanks to its raised 4×4 profile. The interior features gear storage, a convertible bed, a mini kitchenette, and an onboard bathroom packed into its 19-foot frame.

The Interstate 19X accommodates two people and has solar power, fresh water, gray water, and black water tanks for comfortable off-the-grid travel.

Storyteller Overland Beast Mode

Boondockers, pay attention because this is a great option for you. True to its name, this 21′ van is designed for those who want to create memories on a whim.

It’s designed with off-grid camping in mind, featuring a host of portable systems that operate independently of hookups. Some highlights include:

• A diesel-fired water heating system
• Portable interior shower and toilet
• Solar power with lithium batteries and an inverter
• 20-gallon gray water tanks
• 21-gallon freshwater tanks

The interior has innovative modular storage, a basic kitchenette, and enough space for two people. It’s also available in stealth mode for impromptu city stopovers.

Grech Strada-ion Tour

If roughing it isn’t on your wishlist for your road trip, the 2024 Grech Strada-ion Tour is the camper van for you. This elegant, functional camper van has developed quite a fan base.

Wherever you go in this plush 24-foot vehicle, you’re assured of a comfortable stay thanks to the following features:

• Ultraleather seats
• Ambient LED lighting
• Custom cabinets
• Memory foam sofa bed
• Smart TV and premium sound system
• Private wet bath
• Galley-style kitchenette

This and all the other vehicles mentioned above are also available in larger configurations to suit families.

Life Is Better When You Travel More

Thanks to their growing popularity, RVs have evolved to include options for every kind of traveler. Be sure to consider your budget, travel desires, and unique preferences when considering the best camper vans for your needs.

With a host of sizes, configurations, and price ranges to choose from, and even the option to customize your build, you’re bound to find your perfect travel companion soon.

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