A First-Time Buyer’s Guide to VW Campervans for Sale

Buying your first campervan is a big decision equal parts exciting and overwhelming. Owning a camper unlocks a lifestyle of freedom, flexibility, and unforgettable journeys, but before that comes some careful research, planning, and decision-making.

We’ve helped thousands of first-time buyers find the right van for their needs, with a huge range of converted VW campervans for sale across our dealerships, nationwide.

Whether you're dreaming of weekend escapes, daily practicality, or adventures abroad, our first-time campervan buyers' guide covers everything you should know before making the leap and buying your first campervan.

Daily life to big adventures: why buy a campervan?

Which campervan should I buy? 5 Questions to ask yourself

What type of campervan should I buy?

New, pre-loved, or custom-converted? The best ways to buy your campervan

Customising your first campervan: build it your way

Running the numbers on your first campervan

First-time buying tips & red flags to watch out for

Visit CamperKing for the best campervan buying experience

FAQs

Daily life to big adventures: why buy a campervan?

While it might seem like a big initial investment, a campervan is more than just a holiday vehicle. It becomes part of your lifestyle, from daily errands to long-haul escapes. Here’s why more people are choosing van life:

Everyday practicality

Campervans, especially short wheelbase (SWB) models, are surprisingly easy to drive and live with. They park like a car, but offer all the comfort and capability of a home on wheels. You could use yours for:

• The school run
• Popping into town
• The weekly shop (hello, built-in storage!)
• Mobile working with a different view every day

Weekend escapes & holiday freedom

When Friday hits, or you clock off for some well-earned annual leave, your campervan’s ready to roll. Embrace freedom and the joy of the open road by planning:

• Dog-friendly holidays without the hassle
• Festival adventures in the UK and abroad
• Coastal road trips and countryside weekends
• Active getaways – surfing, cycling, hiking, or race weekends

Perfect for all lifestyles

Whether you’re…

• A digital nomad seeking freedom with Wi-Fi
• A retiree ready to explore the UK and beyond
• An outdoor enthusiast needing a kit-ready base
• A family looking to make memories off the beaten path

… a campervan is the perfect companion for a variety of lifestyles. A converted VW campervan, in particular, can be tailored and tinkered with until it suits your ambitions, from its look right down to its features and amenities.

Which campervan should I buy? 5 Questions to ask yourself

Before diving into listings of campervans for sale and making a quick decision, take a moment to consider how you'll actually use your van and what you’ll need from it. The right fit depends on your lifestyle, budget, travel habits, and future plans.

Here’s our list of questions to ask yourself when buying a campervan:

1. Where will I use it most?

Think about your typical trip. Are you drawn to wild spots with minimal facilities, family-friendly campsites with hook-ups, or buzzing festival fields? Your answer will influence layout, storage, and power needs.

2. Will I drive it daily, or only for trips?

If you want to use it as a second car, a compact SWB campervan is ideal. For trips with more gear or people, you might prioritise interior space in the front and back, amenities like a sink, hob, or fridge, and storage capabilities over everyday drivability.

3. How many people need to sleep in it?

Is it just you and your partner? The kids (and the dog), too? Or maybe you travel solo but want space for guests? Make sure the van you choose offers flexible, comfortable sleeping arrangements, whether that’s rock-and-roll beds, RIB beds, or bunk beds in a pop-top.

4. How much gear do I need to carry?

From bikes and boards to hiking boots and wetsuits, your van needs room for it all. Consider roof racks, rear pods, or under-seat storage options, which can sometimes come as upgrades to standard campervans for sale.

5. What’s my budget?

Last but not least – what’s your budget for buying a campervan? Your budget will help determine whether you explore new conversions, pre-loved vans, or look to buy a campervan on finance. Don’t forget to factor in costs like insurance, servicing, refuelling, storage and parking, and accessories – we cover this in more detail further on.

What type of campervan should I buy?

Once you’ve got a sense of how you’ll use your campervan, it’s time to think about which type best suits your lifestyle. From wheelbase length to roof style and layout, here’s what to consider when narrowing down your options.

Campervan vs motorhome

First, if you’re weighing up buying a campervan vs a motorhome, there are a few differences to keep in mind. Campervans are generally more compact, fuel-efficient, and easier to drive, especially for first-time owners. They’re often used as everyday vehicles too, making them ideal for school runs or popping to the shops.

Motorhomes, on the other hand, are larger with more room but are much less practical for daily use. They tend to be more expensive to buy, run, and store, with limited flexibility in layout. For versatility, ease of driving, and a more active lifestyle, a campervan is the go-to choice.

Short vs long wheel base (SWB vs LWB)

• SWB vans are more compact, making them easier to drive and park. This type is ideal if you’re planning to use your camper daily or regularly navigate narrow country roads.
• LWB vans offer more interior space, great for families or those with extra kit and perfect if you prioritise comfort, storage, and don’t mind the added length when driving.

Pop-top vs high-top roofs

• A pop-top roof gives you the flexibility of a low profile when driving, and extra standing room or sleeping space when parked.
• A high-top roof offers permanent headroom and insulation, which can be great for all-weather or anyone planning longer stays off-grid.

New, pre-loved, or custom-converted? The best ways to buy your campervan

There’s more than one way to get your dream camper on the drive, and understanding the options available is key to finding the right van for your lifestyle and budget.

Buying new campervans

Buying second-hand campervans

Converting a campervan

Customising your first campervan: build it your way

Your campervan should work as hard as you do, whether you’re hauling surfboards to the coast, logging on from a mountain pass, or prepping the kids’ snacks at a festival. With CamperKing, you can build your converted VW van around your life, not the other way around.

Choose from a wide range of layouts, finishes, seating configurations, and storage solutions, all designed with real-world practicality in mind.

Want a two-berth layout with maximum storage? No problem. Need four beds and a kitchen that feeds the family? Easy. Prefer a clean, minimal aesthetic or bold interior colours? We’ve got you covered.

We cater to outdoor adventurers, remote workers, retirees, families, and everyone in between, with custom options that turn a great campervan into your campervan.

Start by checking out our full range and then begin planning your dream campervan with our conversion options.

Running the numbers on your first campervan

Buying a campervan is a lifestyle investment, but that doesn’t mean it has to break the bank. Whether you're buying outright, financing your campervan, or weighing up long-term value, here’s everything you need to know to make a confident, informed purchase.

Buying a campervan on finance

You don’t need to pay everything upfront to own a campervan. At CamperKing, for example, we offer a range of flexible finance options designed to make campervan ownership accessible, especially for first-time buyers.

We work with trusted finance providers to offer no-deposit, monthly payment plans through both Hire Purchase (HP), Personal Contract Plan (PCP), and Lease Purchase (LP). This makes budgeting easy and manageable, especially if you're moving from car ownership or looking for a lifestyle upgrade without the full financial hit upfront.

Whether you're eyeing up a brand-new conversion or a quality pre-loved model, our team can walk you through your options in more detail. Find out more on our finance page, book an appointment, or contact us today.

Do campervans hold their value?

One of the best-kept secrets in the van world? Campervans hold their value remarkably well. This is especially true for VW campervan conversions like those manufactured by CamperKing.

Unlike most vehicles that depreciate quickly, well-maintained campervans often retain or even increase in value over time. Think of it as a rolling investment, a lifestyle asset you can enjoy, not just park on a spreadsheet.

With a strong second-hand market, especially for VW camper conversions, many owners are pleasantly surprised by the resale value when it’s time to upgrade or change direction. That means your initial spend is often an opportunity to recoup value later.

You can read more about this in our helpful blog: Do VW Campervans Hold Their Value?

What does it cost to run a campervan?

Beyond the purchase price, it’s worth considering the day-to-day and annual costs of ownership. These are generally manageable, especially when balanced against the cost of holidays, hotels, or second vehicles.

Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Insurance: Campervans need specialist cover, often more affordable than you’d expect.
• Road tax & MOT: This is standard for most vehicles, with costs depending on age and emissions.
• Servicing: Recommended annually. CamperKing servicing centres can help keep you road-ready.
• Fuel: Consider the added cost of refuelling your camper. VW T6 and T6.1 engines are especially efficient, particularly on longer journeys.
• Storage and parking: Many owners keep their campervans at home, but off-site storage is available if needed.
• Equipment: You might want to invest in equipment and accessories to enhance your van life, such as camping gear, tech, or finishing touches like cushions and blankets.

First-time buying tips & red flags to watch out for

Buying your first campervan is exciting, but it pays to go in with your eyes open. Here’s what to look for and questions to ask to ensure you’re getting the right van at the right value.

Service history & condition

Start by checking the service history and overall condition of both the base vehicle and the conversion. Look for signs of professional work – tidy wiring, secure fittings, wheel condition, and quality materials – and any signs of wear such as dents, rust, or even water damage. Mileage isn’t everything, but it should match the age and usage of the van.

Warranties

Ask about warranties – a good campervan should come with one – and what kind of aftercare is offered post-sale. Dealers should be happy to walk you through every feature, not just hand over the keys.

Questions to ask when buying your first campervan

Don’t be afraid to ask direct questions, especially if you’re buying a pre-loved van. A good idea of things to query includes:

• Who completed the conversion?
• Is the gas and electric certified?
• Has the van had regular servicing?
• How many previous owners has the vehicle had?

Get a professional's opinion

It can even be a good idea to get a professional to inspect areas you’re not as comfortable with yourself, such as the electrics, safety equipment, brakes, and bodywork.

This is where buying from a specialist like CamperKing makes a real difference. With years of experience, a national reputation, and full transparency, we offer peace of mind with every van, whether new or pre-loved.

Visit CamperKing for the best campervan buying experience

There’s nothing quite like seeing your future campervan in person. At our showrooms, you can explore it all under one roof. Our showroom features a wide range of campervans for sale with different layouts and finishes, so you can get a true feel for what suits your lifestyle before buying your VW camper.

You can chat with our expert team in a relaxed setting, and even take a peek inside our on-site workshop, where the magic of customisation happens. We’ll help you compare options, understand what’s included, and make the decision that’s right for you, whether you're buying your first camper or just beginning your research.

It’s a chance to meet real people, ask important questions, and see for yourself why thousands of customers trust CamperKing for their campervan adventures.

Book your appointment with us today.

FAQs

What licence do I need to drive a campervan?

In most cases, a standard UK Category B driving licence is all you need, provided the campervan’s weight is under 3,500kg.

When’s the best time to buy a campervan?

Spring and early summer are popular, but demand peaks then, too. Autumn and winter can be the best time to buy, with more availability, faster turnaround times, and maybe even seasonal offers. It also gives you time to run all the checks and get prepared for your first trip out in the warmer months.

How long does a campervan conversion take?

A full custom CamperKing conversion typically takes several weeks, depending on the spec. Pre-built or pre-loved vans are available for faster delivery.

Do I need special insurance when buying and driving a campervan?

Yes, campervans require specialist insurance that covers both the vehicle and its fitted components. It’s usually affordable and can be tailored to how often you use the van.

Can I use my campervan off-grid?

Absolutely. Many CamperKing vans come with off-grid options like leisure batteries, solar panels, and water tanks, perfect for wild camping or remote trips. Just be aware of where you can legally park up for the night and any local restrictions.

Is buying a campervan really worth it?

We might be biased, but if you value freedom, flexibility, and travel on your terms, it’s worth every penny. Plus, with strong resale value and everyday practicality, it's as much an asset to your lifestyle as it is an adventure.