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{{short description|Type of vehicle}}
{{short description|Type of vehicle}}
{{For|mobile homes without a built-in motor vehicle|travel trailer}}{{More citations needed|date=July 2021}}[[File:White Fiat Ducato Campervan 2006.jpg|thumb|250px|A coachbuilt [[Fiat]] campervan]]
{{For|mobile homes without a built-in motor vehicle|travel trailer}}{{More citations needed|date=July 2021}}[[File:White Fiat Ducato Campervan 2006.jpg|thumb|250px|A coachbuilt [[Fiat Ducato]] campervan]]

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⚫
A '''campervan''', also referred to as a '''camper''', '''caravanette''', '''motorhome''' or '''[[Recreational vehicle|RV]]''' (recreational vehicle) in North America, is a self-propelled vehicle that provides both transport and sleeping accommodation. The term describes vans that have been fitted out, whereas a motorhome is one with a [[coachbuilding|coachbuilt]] body.
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⚫
A '''campervan''' (or '''camper van'''), sometimes referred to as a '''camper''', '''caravanette''', or '''motor caravan''', is a self-propelled vehicle that provides both transport and sleeping accommodation. The term describes vans that have been fitted out, whereas a motorhome is one with a [[coachbuilding|coachbuilt]] body.


== Ambiguity with motorhome ==
== Ambiguity with motorhome ==
[[File:Motorhome-RV-Class-C-Sprinter-Ford-Chassis.jpg|thumb|240px|Two Class C campervans, a [[Freightliner Sprinter]] (left) and [[Ford E-Series]] (right) chassis.]]
[[File:Motorhome-RV-Class-C-Sprinter-Ford-Chassis.jpg|thumb|240px|Two Class C campervans, a [[Freightliner Sprinter]] (left) and [[Ford E-Series]] (right) chassis.]]
The term [[motorhome]] is sometimes used interchangeably with campervan, but the former can also be a larger vehicle than a campervan and intended to be more comfortable, whilst the latter is more concerned with ease of movement and lower cost.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.campervan-adventures.com/campervans/index.htm | title=Campervans and motorhomes| work =Campervan Adventures }}</ref> For example, some campervans lack built-in toilets and showers, or a divide between the living compartment and the cab.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.discovery-motorhomes.co.nz/differences.php | title=What are the Differences Between a Campervan and a Motorhome? | work =Discovery Homes New Zealand}}</ref>
The term [[motorhome]] is sometimes used interchangeably with campervan, but the former can also be a larger vehicle than a campervan and intended to be more comfortable, whilst the latter is more concerned with ease of movement and lower cost. For example, some campervans lack built-in toilets and showers, or a divide between the living compartment and the cab.<ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.discovery-motorhomes.co.nz/differences.php | title=What are the Differences Between a Campervan and a Motorhome? | work =Discovery Homes New Zealand| date=10 June 2020 }}</ref>


The United States term "[[recreational vehicle]]" (RV) is more analogous to motorhome than campervan.{{citation needed|date=January 2015}}
The United States term "[[recreational vehicle]]" (RV) is more analogous to motorhome than campervan.{{citation needed|date=January 2015}}
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== Off-road variations ==
== Off-road variations ==
[[File:Offroad sprinter vr vans.jpg|thumb|]]
⚫
Off-road campervans are often referred to as [[Four-wheel drive|4WD or 4x4]] campers. Some models include expandable tents mounted on the roof while others have pop-up roofs for additional sleeping space and storage.


⚫
Pop-up roof variants share certain design elements with [[roof tent]]s as sometimes fitted to more robust four wheel drive [[off-road vehicle]]s intended for expeditions rather than relaxed camping. A compromise between these two purposes is sometimes reached by basing the conversion on an off-road vehicle. Sometimes the conversion is demountable from the back of a [[pickup truck|pick-up]] truck body.
⚫
Off-road campervans are often referred to as [[4WD]] or [[4x4]] campers. Some models include expandable tents mounted on the roof while others have pop-up roofs for additional sleeping space and storage.


== DIY and Self-Build Campervan Conversions ==
⚫
Pop-up roof variants share certain design elements with [[roof tent]]s as sometimes fitted to more robust [[four wheel drive]] [[off-road vehicle]]s intended for expeditions rather than relaxed camping. A compromise between these two purposes is sometimes reached by basing the conversion on an off-road vehicle. Sometimes the conversion is demountable from the back of a [[pickup truck|pick-up]] truck body.
In recent years, converting vans into self-contained motorhomes or campervans has become a popular trend among people who want to own a motorhome or campervan but don't have the budget for a purpose built motorhome or professional conversion. <ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.caravantimes.co.uk/news/motorhome-and-caravan-expert-makes-2022-predictions/ | title=Motorhome and caravan expert makes 2022 predictions | date=20 December 2021 }}</ref>

The conversion process involves stripping out the existing interior of the van and installing the new components. This can include insulating and lining the van, cutting and fitting furniture, installing electrical systems, new windows, a pop-up top and plumbing in a sink and water supply.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.motorhomeprotect.co.uk/news/the-ultimate-guide-to-converting-your-campervan/ | title=The ultimate guide to converting your campervan }}</ref>

It is possible to do a hybrid conversion where large elements such as roof, windows and bed are installed by a professional company and the owner then completes the job themselves. Gas installation requires particular expertise and must either be completed or certified by a qualified engineer.

Insurance for a DIY campervan requires a policy that is flexible enough to cover the vehicle while it is a van, during the conversion process and when it is a completed campervan.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.caravanwise.co.uk/motor-quote/diy-camper-van.html | title=DIY Campervan Insurance - Self Build and Day van Insurance 0800 3282084 }}</ref>


== Classic Volkswagen and other campervans ==
== Classic Volkswagen and other campervans ==
Line 35: Line 43:
Although less popular, [[Mercedes-Benz|Mercedes]] also manufactured a similar-sized light van and conversions were reasonably common in the 1960s and 1970s. Of a similar size and vintage is the British [[Commer Spacevan]] conversion.
Although less popular, [[Mercedes-Benz|Mercedes]] also manufactured a similar-sized light van and conversions were reasonably common in the 1960s and 1970s. Of a similar size and vintage is the British [[Commer Spacevan]] conversion.


In Europe, the [[Citroën H Van|Citroën H-Van]] has also been used a base for many campervan conversions, and is popular amongst Dutch and Belgian users in particular. Ex-factory, it had several height and length configurations, and in all versions it had a low floor and high ceiling, a legacy of one of its original uses as a mobile shop. It does not usually need a pop-top to accommodate its users.
In Europe, the [[Citroën H Van|Citroën H-Van]] has also been used as a base for many campervan conversions, and is popular amongst Dutch and Belgian users in particular. Ex-factory, it had several height and length configurations, and in all versions it had a low floor and high ceiling, a legacy of one of its original uses as a mobile shop. It does not usually need a pop-top to accommodate its users.


Modern mid-sized Japanese vans such as the [[Toyota Hiace]] are sometimes converted to have the appearance of a classic Volkswagen.
Modern mid-sized Japanese vans such as the [[Toyota Hiace]] are sometimes converted to have the appearance of a classic Volkswagen.
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== New concept car camper ==
== New concept car camper ==


The car camper is an estate car(UK) or a station wagon (USA) converted into a travel home. The rear cargo area is converted into a full double bed area usually with a fabricated aluminium framework. All equipment necessary to set up a well-appointed camp site is stored under the double bed with access through lidded areas under the bed. Unlike a standard station wagon where the camping equipment has to be removed before sleeping or a tent set up, the car camper is self-contained.{{Citation needed paragraph|date=July 2021}}
The car camper is an estate car (UK) or a station wagon (USA) converted into a travel home. The rear cargo area is converted into a full double bed area usually with a fabricated aluminium framework. All equipment necessary to set up a well-appointed camp site is stored under the double bed with access through lidded areas under the bed. Unlike a standard station wagon where the camping equipment has to be removed before sleeping or a tent set up, the car camper is self-contained.{{Citation needed paragraph|date=July 2021}}


== British and European size and type classifications ==
== British and European size and type classifications ==
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Similar to North American A-class recreational vehicles (sometimes known generically as "Winnebagos") but generally still smaller in [[Europe]]. Fully coachbuilt over a medium-to-large van chassis, from 7.5 tonnes and upwards. Highly appointed, sometimes with electrically operated slide-out (sideways) extensions to the living space, electricity-generating windmills and in very large models (of North American scale) sometimes even fitted with a [[fluid power|hydraulically]] operated garage capable of transporting a small car.
Similar to North American A-class recreational vehicles (sometimes known generically as "Winnebagos") but generally still smaller in [[Europe]]. Fully coachbuilt over a medium-to-large van chassis, from 7.5 tonnes and upwards. Highly appointed, sometimes with electrically operated slide-out (sideways) extensions to the living space, electricity-generating windmills and in very large models (of North American scale) sometimes even fitted with a [[fluid power|hydraulically]] operated garage capable of transporting a small car.


Smaller (sub 7.5 tonnes) A class vehicles are also popular in Europe, similar in size to overcab coachbuilts, but without the base vehicle's cab. In its place, a (wider) cab is added, which allows for a drop-down bed to be fitted above. Recognisable by their large curved windscreens.
Smaller (sub 7.5 tonnes) A-class vehicles are also popular in Europe, similar in size to overcab coachbuilts, but without the base vehicle's cab. In its place, a (wider) cab is added, which allows for a drop-down bed to be fitted above. Recognisable by their large curved windscreens.


=== Overcab (OC) ===
=== Overcab (OC) ===
Line 72: Line 80:


=== Rising roof (RR) ===
=== Rising roof (RR) ===
[[Image:Mazda-E2000-Campervan.jpg|thumb|Mazda "rising roof" campervan]]
[[Image:Mazda-E2000-Campervan.jpg|thumb|[[Mazda Bongo|Mazda E2000]] (Bongo) "rising roof" campervan]]


Often based on a relatively small van, typically 2 to 3 tonnes gross vehicle weight, including the classic Volkswagen Type 2, and with a roof which raises, usually with fabric sides, in a way not unlike a roof tent. Bed typically in the rising roof but also sometimes built by moving seats and tables. A rising roof is also sometimes used to allow for standing room in the vehicle.<ref>{{cite book | last=Watts | first=M.P. | title=Worcestershire's Motoring Heritage | publisher=Amberley Publishing | year=2014 | isbn=978-1-4456-3714-3 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZCxmBAAAQBAJ&pg=PT109 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=109}}</ref> Shower and toilet cubicles rarely fitted.
Often based on a relatively small van, typically 2 to 3 tonnes gross vehicle weight, including the classic Volkswagen Type 2, and with a roof which raises, usually with fabric sides, in a way not unlike a roof tent. Bed typically in the rising roof but also sometimes built by moving seats and tables. A rising roof is also sometimes used to allow for standing room in the vehicle.<ref>{{cite book | last=Watts | first=M.P. | title=Worcestershire's Motoring Heritage | publisher=Amberley Publishing | year=2014 | isbn=978-1-4456-3714-3 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ZCxmBAAAQBAJ&pg=PT109 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=109}}</ref> Shower and toilet cubicles rarely fitted.
Line 104: Line 112:
== Amenities ==
== Amenities ==
A modern campervan may contain some or all of the following features:
A modern campervan may contain some or all of the following features:
* Propane [[Fuel gas|gas]]- or [[electricity|electric]]-powered [[refrigerator]]<ref>{{cite book | last=Dorey | first=M. | title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) | publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing | year=2016 | isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA182 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=182}}</ref>
* Propane [[Fuel gas|gas]] or [[electricity|electric]]-powered [[refrigerator]]<ref>{{cite book | last=Dorey | first=M. | title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) | publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing | year=2016 | isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA182 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=182}}</ref>
* Propane gas or electric [[cooktop]], grill, or both<ref>{{cite book | last=Dorey | first=M. | title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) | publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing | year=2016 | isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA172 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=172}}</ref>
* Propane gas or electric [[cooktop]], grill, or both<ref>{{cite book | last=Dorey | first=M. | title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) | publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing | year=2016 | isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA172 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=172}}</ref>
* [[Microwave oven]]
* [[Microwave oven]]<ref>{{cite book | last=Groene | first=J. | last2=Groene | first2=G. | title=Living Aboard Your RV, 4th Edition | publisher=McGraw-Hill Education | year=2012 | isbn=978-0-07-178473-3 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=gjzzGvsyKfMC | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=46}}</ref>
* Oven
* Oven<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/>
* Propane gas- or electric-powered [[Tankless water heater|water heater]]
* Propane gas- or electric-powered [[Tankless water heater|water heater]]<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104">{{cite book | last=Dorey | first=M. | title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) | publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing | year=2016 | isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA104 | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=104}}</ref>
* One or more beds, some of which double-up as daytime seating<ref name="World Book 2000">{{cite book | title= World Book Encyclopedia | publisher= | series=The World Book Encyclopedia | issue=v. 16 | year=2000 | isbn=978-0-7166-0100-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SlBEAAAAMAAJ | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=184}}</ref>
* One or more beds, some of which double-up as daytime seating<ref name="World Book 2000">{{cite book | title= World Book Encyclopedia | publisher= | series=The World Book Encyclopedia | issue=v. 16 | year=2000 | isbn=978-0-7166-0100-5 | url=https://books.google.com/books?id=SlBEAAAAMAAJ | access-date=December 17, 2018 | page=184}}</ref>
* Electricity supplied by "house" [[Battery (electricity)|battery]] or external hook-up<ref name="Fry 2012">{{cite book | last=Fry | first=T. | title=Motorhomes: A First-Time Buyer's Guide | publisher=Veloce Publishing | series=RAC Handbook | year=2012 | isbn=978-1-84584-449-3 | url=https://archive.org/details/motorhomesfirstt0000fryt | url-access=registration | access-date=December 17, 2018 | pages=[https://archive.org/details/motorhomesfirstt0000fryt/page/15 15]–35}}</ref>
* Electricity supplied by "house" [[Battery (electricity)|battery]] or external hook-up<ref name="Fry 2012">{{cite book | last=Fry | first=T. | title=Motorhomes: A First-Time Buyer's Guide | publisher=Veloce Publishing | series=RAC Handbook | year=2012 | isbn=978-1-84584-449-3 | url=https://archive.org/details/motorhomesfirstt0000fryt | url-access=registration | access-date=December 17, 2018 | pages=[https://archive.org/details/motorhomesfirstt0000fryt/page/15 15]–35}}</ref>
* Built-in or cassette toilet with removable disposal tank – a flushing toilet with access usually outside the campervan for easy emptying. Some models have a swivel system for extra space.<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/><ref name="Campervan Glossary">{{cite web| url = http://www.motorhomegroup.com/hire/glossary.asp| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110305044108/http://www.motorhomegroup.com/hire/glossary.asp| url-status = dead| archive-date = 2011-03-05| title = Campervan Glossary| work = Motorhome Group}}</ref>
* Built-in or cassette toilet with removable disposal tank – a flushing toilet with access usually outside the campervan for easy emptying. Some models have a swivel system for extra space.<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104">{{cite book |last=Dorey |first=M. |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=ggklDAAAQBAJ&pg=PA104 |title=The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat) |publisher=Bloomsbury Publishing |year=2016 |isbn=978-1-4729-2655-5 |page=104 |access-date=December 17, 2018}}</ref><ref name="Campervan Glossary">{{cite web| url = http://www.motorhomegroup.com/hire/glossary.asp| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20110305044108/http://www.motorhomegroup.com/hire/glossary.asp| url-status = dead| archive-date = 2011-03-05| title = Campervan Glossary| work = Motorhome Group}}</ref>
* [[Shower]]<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/>
* [[Shower]]
* [[Television]]<ref name="World Book 2000"/> (with an [[Antenna (radio)|aerial]], [[satellite dish]], or both)
* [[Television]]<ref name="World Book 2000"/> (with an [[Antenna (radio)|aerial]], [[satellite dish]], or both)
* [[Air conditioning]] (at least the normal vehicle's cab system)
* [[Air conditioning]] (at least the normal vehicle's cab system)
* Room heater or central heating<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/><ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Room heater or central heating<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/><ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Potable water tank<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/>
* Potable water tank<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/>
* [[Wastewater]] tank for "grey" (wash) water and black (sewer) water<ref name="Dorey 2016 p. 104"/>
* [[Wastewater]] tank for "[[greywater|grey]]" (wash) water and [[Blackwater (waste)|black]] (sewer) water
* Extendable external [[awning]] – an extendable canvas shade which offers protection from the sun.<ref name="Campervan Glossary"/>
* Extendable external [[awning]] – an extendable canvas shade that offers protection from the sun.<ref name="Campervan Glossary"/>
* Generator – powered by gasoline, diesel or propane<ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Generator – powered by gasoline, diesel or propane<ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Solar panels – for additional electricity generation<ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Solar panels – for additional electricity generation<ref name="Fry 2012"/>
* Bike rack – a carrying device for bicycles, usually fixed to the rear of the campervan.
* Bike rack – a bicycle carrying device, usually fixed to the rear of the campervan.


== See also ==
== See also ==
{{portal|Cars|Transport}}
{{portal|Cars|Transport}}
{{div col|colwidth=23em}}
* [[Campervan hire agency]]
* [[Campervan hire agency]]
* [[Caravan park]]
* [[Caravan park]]
* [[Conversion van]]
* [[Conversion van]]
* [[Travel trailer]]
* [[Motorhome]]
* [[Recreational vehicle]]
* [[Recreational vehicle]]
* [[Travel trailer]]
{{div col end}}


== References ==
== References ==
Line 136: Line 147:
== External links ==
== External links ==
* {{Commons category inline|Campervans}}
* {{Commons category inline|Campervans}}
* [https://campervans.co.uk Campervans]


[[Category:Camping|Van]]
[[Category:Camping|Van]]

Latest revision as of 18:13, 2 January 2025

For mobile homes without a built-in motor vehicle, see travel trailer.
A coachbuilt Fiat Ducato campervan

A campervan, also referred to as a camper, caravanette, motorhome or RV (recreational vehicle) in North America, is a self-propelled vehicle that provides both transport and sleeping accommodation. The term describes vans that have been fitted out, whereas a motorhome is one with a coachbuilt body.

Ambiguity with motorhome

[edit]
Two Class C campervans, a Freightliner Sprinter (left) and Ford E-Series (right) chassis.

The term motorhome is sometimes used interchangeably with campervan, but the former can also be a larger vehicle than a campervan and intended to be more comfortable, whilst the latter is more concerned with ease of movement and lower cost. For example, some campervans lack built-in toilets and showers, or a divide between the living compartment and the cab.[1]

The United States term "recreational vehicle" (RV) is more analogous to motorhome than campervan.[citation needed]

Features

[edit]
Volkswagen Autosleeper Clubman GL, a typical European campervan

Campervans may be equipped either with a "pop-up" roof which is raised during camping, or a fixed roof, either shared with the commercial van that forms the basis of the vehicle (commonly a "high-top" model), or as part of a custom coach-built body.

Campervans usually have a small kitchen with a refrigerator (which is often powered by a choice of gas, battery, or mains electricity) and a two-burner gas hob and grill. They generally have dual-voltage lighting which can work from either a dedicated battery (other than the van battery) known as a deep-cycle or leisure battery, or from AC power, supplied at a campsite via a hook-up cable. Larger models may include a water heater, space heating and air conditioning, a portable toilet and an internal shower. Smaller models often carry a portable toilet, and sometimes an external shower that operates within the privacy of an awning.

The term "Dormobile" is sometimes used generically in the United Kingdom due to a once highly popular conversion brand, and "Kombi" is used in Australia and other countries. The popularity of this type expanded in the 1950s after Volkswagen commissioned the Westfalia company to use the Kombi version of their Type 2 transporter as the basis for a campervan.

Off-road variations

[edit]

Off-road campervans are often referred to as 4WD or 4x4 campers. Some models include expandable tents mounted on the roof while others have pop-up roofs for additional sleeping space and storage.

Pop-up roof variants share certain design elements with roof tents as sometimes fitted to more robust four wheel drive off-road vehicles intended for expeditions rather than relaxed camping. A compromise between these two purposes is sometimes reached by basing the conversion on an off-road vehicle. Sometimes the conversion is demountable from the back of a pick-up truck body.

DIY and Self-Build Campervan Conversions

[edit]

In recent years, converting vans into self-contained motorhomes or campervans has become a popular trend among people who want to own a motorhome or campervan but don't have the budget for a purpose built motorhome or professional conversion. [2]

The conversion process involves stripping out the existing interior of the van and installing the new components. This can include insulating and lining the van, cutting and fitting furniture, installing electrical systems, new windows, a pop-up top and plumbing in a sink and water supply.[3]

It is possible to do a hybrid conversion where large elements such as roof, windows and bed are installed by a professional company and the owner then completes the job themselves. Gas installation requires particular expertise and must either be completed or certified by a qualified engineer.

Insurance for a DIY campervan requires a policy that is flexible enough to cover the vehicle while it is a van, during the conversion process and when it is a completed campervan.[4]

Classic Volkswagen and other campervans

[edit]
Main article: Volkswagen Westfalia Campers
Dutch-built version – with non-suicide doors – of Citroën H-Van Camper
Classic Volkswagen Camper

There are several types of campervan manufactured by Volkswagen; depending on their age, they are colloquially referred to as either a splitty (split windscreen), a bay (bay framed windscreen), or a bricky ("brick" shaped van).

Although less popular, Mercedes also manufactured a similar-sized light van and conversions were reasonably common in the 1960s and 1970s. Of a similar size and vintage is the British Commer Spacevan conversion.

In Europe, the Citroën H-Van has also been used as a base for many campervan conversions, and is popular amongst Dutch and Belgian users in particular. Ex-factory, it had several height and length configurations, and in all versions it had a low floor and high ceiling, a legacy of one of its original uses as a mobile shop. It does not usually need a pop-top to accommodate its users.

Modern mid-sized Japanese vans such as the Toyota Hiace are sometimes converted to have the appearance of a classic Volkswagen.

New concept car camper

[edit]

The car camper is an estate car (UK) or a station wagon (USA) converted into a travel home. The rear cargo area is converted into a full double bed area usually with a fabricated aluminium framework. All equipment necessary to set up a well-appointed camp site is stored under the double bed with access through lidded areas under the bed. Unlike a standard station wagon where the camping equipment has to be removed before sleeping or a tent set up, the car camper is self-contained.[This paragraph needs citation(s)]

British and European size and type classifications

[edit]

A-class (AC)

[edit]

Similar to North American A-class recreational vehicles (sometimes known generically as "Winnebagos") but generally still smaller in Europe. Fully coachbuilt over a medium-to-large van chassis, from 7.5 tonnes and upwards. Highly appointed, sometimes with electrically operated slide-out (sideways) extensions to the living space, electricity-generating windmills and in very large models (of North American scale) sometimes even fitted with a hydraulically operated garage capable of transporting a small car.

Smaller (sub 7.5 tonnes) A-class vehicles are also popular in Europe, similar in size to overcab coachbuilts, but without the base vehicle's cab. In its place, a (wider) cab is added, which allows for a drop-down bed to be fitted above. Recognisable by their large curved windscreens.

Overcab (OC)

[edit]
Typical "overcab" camper on a relatively large Iveco van base

Coachbuilt body, retaining the base van's cab, with a raised Luton van style area over the cab containing a bed.[5] Other beds may be fixed in place, built by moving seats and tables, or lowered from the ceiling. Shower and toilet cubicles usually fitted. Sometimes including a garage for bikes, and may be large enough to support a mechanism for towing a small city car. Roughly comparable to the North American C-class (CC).

Common base vehicles include the Fiat Ducato, Renault Master, and Ford Transit.

Low profile (LP)

[edit]

Coachbuilt but without a raised bed over the cab. Other beds may be fixed in place, built by moving seats and tables, or lowered from the ceiling. Shower and toilet cubicles usually fitted. Garages and towing fittings may be carried as with the overcab designs.

Typical base vehicles are lighter-duty or smaller-engined variants of the same vehicles used for overcab designs.

High top (HT)

[edit]
Autosleeper Harmony "high top" Campervan

Based on a high-top van, typically of around 2.8 to 4.5 tonnes gross vehicle weight, without major coachbuilding modifications to the body. Beds typically fixed in place or built by moving seats and tables. Shower and toilet cubicles sometimes fitted.

Typical base vehicles are the same as for the coachbuilt designs, above. Often, a Dodge, GMC or Ford van will be professionally converted into a high top.

Rising roof (RR)

[edit]
Mazda E2000 (Bongo) "rising roof" campervan

Often based on a relatively small van, typically 2 to 3 tonnes gross vehicle weight, including the classic Volkswagen Type 2, and with a roof which raises, usually with fabric sides, in a way not unlike a roof tent. Bed typically in the rising roof but also sometimes built by moving seats and tables. A rising roof is also sometimes used to allow for standing room in the vehicle.[6] Shower and toilet cubicles rarely fitted.

The Volkswagen Transporter is a common base vehicle, and Ford Transits are also reasonably common.

Fixed roof (FR)

[edit]

Also known as "surf vans" (or "surf buses") and "day vans". Typically similar in size to the rising roof designs. Beds usually built by moving seats and tables. Shower and toilet cubicles very rarely fitted.

The Volkswagen Transporter and Mercedes-Benz Vito are particularly common base vehicles. They have become the successors to the classic Volkswagen Type 2. Slightly smaller vans such as the Fiat Scudo may be used; on occasion, even smaller vans such as the Fiat Doblò are used to make casual light-duty campers with minimal facilities beyond sleeping space.

Dismountable (DM)

[edit]
See also: Truck camper
Nissan Navara Dismountable camper

A coachbuilt body sits on a (sometimes modified) pick-up load-bed, and generally removable at campsites to allow the vehicle to be used.

Ford, Toyota, Nissan and Mitsubishi vehicles are common bases.

B-class (BC)

[edit]

This term is not commonly used except for imported North American models, which may vary greatly in size from semi-low profile coachbuilts to van conversions. Typically, a van chassis is provided without interior or some exterior features as an "incomplete vehicle" by an automobile manufacturer, and upfitted with RV amenities by a coachbuilder. It is then sold as a completed RV and usually has safety standards certification from the RV Industry Association.

North American van conversions

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Ford Econoline van conversion
GMC Vandura
Main article: Conversion van

In North America there are many manufacturers of campervans. Since the 1970s, Japanese vans like the Toyota HiAce and the Datsun Urvan, as well as European models based on the Ford Transit, Fiat Ducato and Bedford vans, have become popular as base vehicles for conversions.

Amenities

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A modern campervan may contain some or all of the following features:

  • Propane gas or electric-powered refrigerator[7]
  • Propane gas or electric cooktop, grill, or both[8]
  • Microwave oven
  • Oven
  • Propane gas- or electric-powered water heater
  • One or more beds, some of which double-up as daytime seating[9]
  • Electricity supplied by "house" battery or external hook-up[10]
  • Built-in or cassette toilet with removable disposal tank – a flushing toilet with access usually outside the campervan for easy emptying. Some models have a swivel system for extra space.[11][12]
  • Shower
  • Television[9] (with an aerial, satellite dish, or both)
  • Air conditioning (at least the normal vehicle's cab system)
  • Room heater or central heating[11][10]
  • Potable water tank[11]
  • Wastewater tank for "grey" (wash) water and black (sewer) water
  • Extendable external awning – an extendable canvas shade that offers protection from the sun.[12]
  • Generator – powered by gasoline, diesel or propane[10]
  • Solar panels – for additional electricity generation[10]
  • Bike rack – a bicycle carrying device, usually fixed to the rear of the campervan.

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "What are the Differences Between a Campervan and a Motorhome?". Discovery Homes New Zealand. 10 June 2020.
  2. ^ "Motorhome and caravan expert makes 2022 predictions". 20 December 2021.
  3. ^ "The ultimate guide to converting your campervan".
  4. ^ "DIY Campervan Insurance - Self Build and Day van Insurance 0800 3282084".
  5. ^ Dorey, M. (2016). The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat). Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 74. ISBN 978-1-4729-2655-5. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  6. ^ Watts, M.P. (2014). Worcestershire's Motoring Heritage. Amberley Publishing. p. 109. ISBN 978-1-4456-3714-3. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  7. ^ Dorey, M. (2016). The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat). Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 182. ISBN 978-1-4729-2655-5. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  8. ^ Dorey, M. (2016). The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat). Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 172. ISBN 978-1-4729-2655-5. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  9. ^ a b World Book Encyclopedia. The World Book Encyclopedia. 2000. p. 184. ISBN 978-0-7166-0100-5. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  10. ^ a b c d Fry, T. (2012). Motorhomes: A First-Time Buyer's Guide. RAC Handbook. Veloce Publishing. pp. 15–35. ISBN 978-1-84584-449-3. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  11. ^ a b c Dorey, M. (2016). The Camper Van Bible: Live, Eat, Sleep (Repeat). Bloomsbury Publishing. p. 104. ISBN 978-1-4729-2655-5. Retrieved December 17, 2018.
  12. ^ a b "Campervan Glossary". Motorhome Group. Archived from the original on 2011-03-05.
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