Best campervans for your next staycation

Staycations are a popular holiday option for many people in the UK. Who doesn’t love staying on these shores and discovering the best of Britain? A campervan offers the freedom to explore everything from the beautiful Cornish coast to the striking Scottish Highlands at your own pace. But with so many great options to choose from, finding the right campervan can be overwhelming – especially with a variety of roads to navigate, unpredictable weather to contend with, and different campsite facilities to consider.

To help you find the right campervan for your next staycation, here we’ll share some of the best examples for different types of travellers and trips.

What to look for in a campervan if you’re planning a UK staycation

Choosing a campervan for your UK staycation means considering your travel style, comfort and needs. You’ll also want to think about the types of roads you’ll be travelling along and the potential weather conditions. When looking for a campervan, consider the following features:

1. Size and driveability

UK roads are often narrow and winding, which can make driving a large campervan stressful for some. A compact campervan is easier to park, manoeuvre, and use day to day. Larger vans offer more comfort but less flexibility.

2. Sleeping capacity

Consider how many people will be staying in your campervan during your staycation. Some campervans have more seats than berths, so always check both to ensure you have enough beds for everyone.

3. Layout and interior space

There are many layout options to think about when choosing a campervan. For example, some have fixed beds while others have convertible seating. Certain models have enough room to sit inside comfortably, and others have been designed to enable people to easily move around. The right layout will ensure you have a comfortable campervan suited to your needs.

4. Kitchen facilities

Having kitchen facilities can make staycations more affordable and stress-free, as you won’t need to eat out all the time. Depending on your budget, you could choose a campervan with a hob, a sink, a fridge, or an in-built cool box.

5. Toilet and shower

Not all campervans have a toilet or shower, and this doesn’t really matter if you plan to use campsite facilities. But if having your own bathroom is important, you can find them in larger campervans.

6. Storage space

Storage space can help you keep your campervan neat and uncluttered during your staycation. Check for overhead lockers, under-seat storage, and space for outdoor gear.

7. Heating and insulation

We all know that the UK weather can be unpredictable – especially in summer where the sun will be out one day and it’s pouring with rain the next. Even when you’re travelling in the “warmer” months, you should still consider a campervan with proper insulation and heating. It will make a huge difference for comfort. This is essential if you’re planning a campervan staycation in winter.

8. Electrics

Reliable electrics are vital, so keep an eye out for leisure batteries, USB or plug sockets, and optional solar panels. Poor wiring can be dangerous, so make sure everything is professionally installed and working safely – especially when buying a second-hand campervan.

9. Safety features

As with buying any vehicle, safety should be a priority. Make sure your chosen campervan has seatbelts in good condition, a fire extinguisher or blanket, and professionally installed gas systems. These safety checks are particularly important when buying a used campervan.

10. Budget and running costs

Remember to consider running costs, as there are some expenses that can quickly add up, such as insurance, fuel, maintenance, repairs, UK toll roads and campsite fees.

The best campervans for UK staycations

Here are a few of our favourites.

Best all-rounder campervan: Volkswagen California Ocean

If you’re looking for a campervan that has it all, the Volkswagen California Ocean is a great option. It offers excellent everyday drivability alongside practical camping features.

You’ll find that this campervan is compact enough to handle narrow roads and parking spaces while still providing beds for up to four people, thanks to its pop-up roof. Inside this van, you’ll find a well-designed kitchenette and a flexible dining area that converts easily for sleeping.

It’s a comfortable campervan for both weekend getaways and longer touring holidays. It is a pricey option, but its strong build quality and resale value make it a great investment.

Best affordable campervan: Converted Volkswagen Transporter T5 or T6

If you’re looking for something a little cheaper and more affordable, a converted Volkswagen Transporter T5 or T6 is a popular option.

Unlike factory-built campervans, T5 and T6 conversions come in a wide range of specifications. You can choose simple weekend setups to more luxurious builds with full kitchens and upgraded interiors. If you look hard enough, you can find something that suits your budget – whether you want simple and easy or something a little more flash.

Converted Volkswagen Transporters are widely available and relatively inexpensive compared to premium models. While they may not feel as refined as other options, they offer excellent value and the freedom to customise your setup.

Learn about how to convert a VW Transporter to a campervan.

Best for families: Ford Transit Custom Nugget

Travelling with the family requires more space, smarter layouts, and better storage, making the Ford Transit Custom Nugget a perfect pick.

One of the Nugget’s main features is its separate rear kitchen, which frees up more living space in the main cabin. This is especially handy when the weather’s bad and everyone wants to be indoors. This family-friendly campervan comfortably sleeps four people and offers more storage than many similarly sized vans. It’s ideal for longer trips during the summer.

Although it’s slightly bulkier to drive than other campervan options, the extra space and practicality make it a great choice for families seeking comfort and usability.

Best for couples: Auto-Sleepers Symbol

If you’re travelling as a couple and want some comfort and convenience, the Auto-Sleepers Symbol offers a motorhome experience in a compact format.

Unlike many smaller campervans, it has a built-in toilet and shower – it ticks the boxes for off-grid travel or when visiting sites with limited facilities. The interior is designed with comfort in mind, providing a cosy, functional space for two people.

It’s also ideal for longer trips where convenience is a top priority. The added amenities really make a big difference in overall comfort.

Finding the right campervan for your holiday needs

Choosing the right campervan means thinking carefully about how you want to travel. If you’re looking for a reliable all-rounder, the Volkswagen California Ocean is a great option, while if budget is your top priority you may want to consider a Transporter conversion.

Families are sure to love the spacious Ford Nugget Plus, and couples can enjoy a comfortable experience in the Auto-Sleepers Symbol.

Specialist motorhome insurance through Ripe

Whether you’re looking to convert your campervan or deciding on the right layout before buying a new motorhome, consider getting specialist motorhome insurance to financially protect you and your vehicle from the unexpected. Get a quick online quote today.