A campervan is a unique vehicle. Hitting the open road in your camper means the freedom to explore new places and discover new countries. Whether it’s a weekend away or a road trip across Europe, a campervan brings a sense of freedom, excitement and spontaneity to every journey.
And while campervans today come in all shapes and sizes, there’s something undeniably iconic about classic campers. They are full of nostalgia and charm. And they take us right back to the early days of campervan travel. From the classic VW to the stunning Citroën H Van Camper, there’s just something beautiful about these vintage vehicles.
In this guide we’ll look at where classic campers originated, the manufacturers that have shaped the industry, and the famous models that have stood the test of time.
A little classic camper history
Motorised caravans were first commercially made in the early 20th century, and by the 1950s we saw the first steps towards campervans hitting the mainstream. And it really began in Germany, with two companies working together.
Westfalia created its well-known Camping Box for the Volkswagen Transporter. It incorporated sleeping and living facilities within the van, combining travel and accommodation within the same vehicle.
This design was at the forefront of campervan development and helped establish many specific features that influenced campervan design for years to come. This included compact living spaces, integrated sleeping areas, cooking facilities and efficient storage.
Throughout the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s, Volkswagen campers continued to evolve, becoming increasingly practical and sophisticated. Around the same time, other manufacturers like Dormobile developed their own distinctive designs. It wasn’t just about functionality, but also the style of the era.
By the 1970s and 1980s, campervans had become larger, more spacious and much more comfortable. Manufacturers like Hymer played an important role in the development of the European motorhome, while Volkswagen’s T2 and T3 models continued to cement the campervan’s popularity as both a practical everyday vehicle and a means of holiday travel.
Today, many of these early campervans have become highly sought-after classics.
Five of the best classic campers
Let’s take a look at some of the most famous classic camper manufacturers and their iconic designs.
1. Volkswagen Transporter
When you think classic camper, you immediately think about VW and its world-famous Transporter. It brings Summer of Love styling and hippy nostalgia. And it’s always fun to see one on the roads in the UK. It’s no surprise that it’s one of the most renowned campers in history, and there have been many versions down the years.
It began with the T1 Split-Screen, followed by the T2 Bay Window and later T3, and they each became much-loved classics in their own right.
The T1 Split-Screen quickly became associated with freedom and adventure, with its distinctive split windscreen, rounded bodywork and unmistakable design. The T2 Bay Window followed in 1967, offering a more spacious and practical design, while retaining the character that had made its predecessor so popular. Then the T3 was introduced in 1979, bringing a more modern, angular design along with improved comfort, space and practicality.
Together, these three generations played a major role in establishing the Volkswagen campervan as an enduring icon.
2. Bedford CA Dormobile
Not quite as well-known to the masses as the VW Transporter, but no less groundbreaking, the Bedford CA Dormobile is a beautiful and intriguing camper.
The original vehicle was produced by Bedford Vehicles as the Bedford CA. It didn’t become a camper until coachbuilder Martin Walter got his hands on it and converted it under the Dormobile branding.
It first hit the market in the 1950s, and became a great choice for families and adventurers looking for an affordable way to explore the UK and Europe. Its small size, rounded bodywork and distinctive split windscreen provide plenty of character, with the extra addition of the Dormobile conversion. Many models featured a raised roof, sleeping berths, seating, storage and cooking facilities.
Although the Bedford CA has been off the production line for decades, surviving examples remain highly sought after by classic vehicle enthusiasts. Dormobiles in good condition can attract a lot of attention at classic car shows, rallies and campervan events.
3. Commer PB Auto-Sleeper
The Commer PB Auto-Sleeper is another true classic and fantastic camper. It was initially a commercial van manufactured in Britain by Commer during the 1960s and 1970s, before being converted by Auto-Sleeper. This then transformed the van into a compact touring campervan which included sleeping accommodation, seating, storage and cooking facilities.
This classic campervan offers a distinctive rounded styling and practical interior, and was well-suited to family holidays and touring adventures at the time. Today, surviving examples are highly prized by vintage camper enthusiasts.
4. Hymermobil 550
The Hymermobil 550 is a classic German motorhome that became popular during the 1970s and helped establish Hymer as one of Europe's leading motorhome manufacturers.
It might not be the most famous in terms of looks and style, but it showcased the best of German engineering, as it was built on a Mercedes-Benz chassis. It also offered considerably more space and comfort than many of the smaller campervans of the time, with a practical interior designed for longer touring trips.
Depending on the layout and specification, this vintage camper featured sleeping areas, a kitchen, dining space, storage and bathroom facilities. With its distinctive boxy styling and clever use of space, the Hymermobil 550 remains a much-loved classic.
5. Citroën H Van Camper
The Citroën H Van Camper is all about clean lines and beautiful styling. Where VW went for curves, Citroën focussed much more on angles. And the final result really gives the Transporter a run for its money in the looks stakes.
This classic French camper was first introduced in 1947 as a practical commercial van. The H Van was later converted into a camper that offered plenty of interior space thanks to its tall, boxy design. Most conversions featured beds, kitchens and plenty of storage. But the real winner for us is the instantly recognisable corrugated metal bodywork and unusual front-end styling. It truly has unique character.
It’s no surprise that it’s a favourite among collectors and enthusiasts, prized for its quirky styling, practicality and unmistakable French charm.
Iconic designs and interior innovation
Each classic camper brought something different to the world of campervanning, from clever compact designs to spacious motorhomes. While modern campervans offer greater comfort, technology and convenience, classic campers have a charm that is difficult to replicate. Their distinctive designs, simple interiors and nostalgic character make every journey feel like an adventure.
Keen to learn more about vintage vehicles? Discover the best classic cars of the 1950s and 1940s.
Specialist classic camper insurance by Ripe
As well as considering the costs of owning, maintaining, and storing a classic vehicle, you might also want to consider specialist classic camper insurance by Ripe for financial protection if the unexpected happens.
Ripe arranges cover designed specifically for classic camper owners, helping to protect vehicles against risks such as theft, loss, accidental damage, fire, and vandalism, so you can enjoy your pride and joy with added confidence. Get an online quote today.
Please note the information provided on this page should not be taken as advice and has been written as a matter of opinion. For more on insurance cover and policy wording, see our homepage.