Land Rover Discovery: Camper-Pulling Power?

Land Rover Discovery is a popular choice for camping and off-roading enthusiasts. The vehicle's large cargo area, flat and spacious back, and ample mounting holes make it ideal for conversion into a camper van. The conversion process typically involves stripping the seats and plastic trim to create more space and adding custom features such as a kitchenette, bed, storage compartments, and electrical connections. While some people choose to perform the conversion themselves, companies like CamperHus offer professional conversion services, transforming the Discovery into a fully-fledged camper with all the necessary amenities for off-grid living.

Land Rover Discovery Camper conversion

Converting a Land Rover Discovery into a camper is a unique and interesting project, especially given the Discovery's off-road capabilities. The process involves cutting the back half and the roof of the vehicle to accommodate a camper shell, which provides ample space for all the amenities of home.

Interior Features

The interior of a converted Land Rover Discovery camper can include a refrigerator, a two-burner stove, a sink, and even a full bathroom with a shower and cassette toilet. The water storage capacity is impressive, with 16 gallons of fresh water and 5 gallons of grey water. Additionally, there is ample storage space and power options, including a single house battery, 100 watts of solar power, and the ability to connect to shore power.

Customisation Options

When converting a Land Rover Discovery into a camper, there are various customisation options available. The roof is typically raised to provide headroom, and an elevating roof can also create additional sleeping space. Storage solutions can include roof racks, awnings, storage boxes, hidden cupboards, and pockets.

Cost Considerations

The cost of converting a Land Rover Discovery into a camper can vary depending on the desired features and customisation options. A standard conversion can start at around £12,000, but adding optional extras such as solar panels, portable toilets, and diesel heaters will increase the price.

Converting a Land Rover Discovery into a camper offers a unique and capable off-road adventure vehicle. With careful planning and customisation, it is possible to create a comfortable and well-equipped mobile home that can turn heads everywhere you go.

Camper features and amenities

Campers have long been a popular choice for weekend getaways, vacations, and cross-country trips. They offer a compact, yet functional space, with a kitchen, bathroom, and bedroom. Here are some essential features and amenities that make a camper van stand out:

Off-Road Capabilities

Look for a camper with off-road capabilities, equipped with all-wheel drive and upgraded wheels and tires. This allows you to explore various terrains and find camping spots off the beaten path.

Off-Grid Capabilities

Solar setups are a great off-grid feature, providing ample power to embrace dispersed camping without sacrificing electricity. This means you can spend more time in nature without relying on campground amenities.

Storage Space

Ample storage is crucial for any camping adventure. Look for roof racks, interior closets, and other creative solutions to store your equipment, gear, food, and clothing.

Remote Work Compatibility

With the rise of remote work, having a dedicated workspace in your camper van is a must. Ensure your camper has comfortable seating, a table or desk, and power outlets to stay connected and productive on the road.

Standard Upfits

Even in a compact space, your camper van should include essential upfits such as bug and privacy screens, an external shower port, an on-board air compressor, and kitchen appliances like a refrigerator, cooktop, and sink.

Quality Interior

Invest in a camper with a quality interior crafted from high-end materials. This ensures durability, comfort, and the ability to withstand off-road conditions.

Modular Design

To maximize space, opt for a modular design with multi-purpose features. For example, a bed area that folds up into the wall and converts into a dining area saves space and offers flexibility during your travels.

Warranty

Choose a camper van that comes with a warranty to protect your investment. A one- to two-year warranty provides peace of mind and makes it easier to address any mechanical issues that may arise.

Customization

Finally, select a camper that can be customized to fit your specific needs. Whether you want to bring your mountain bike or simply relax in comfort, find a camper that offers the necessary luxuries and amenities to enhance your journey.

By considering these features and amenities, you can create a functional, comfortable, and versatile space in your camper van, making your adventures on the road even more enjoyable.

Camper storage and space

The Land Rover Discovery is a spacious three-row SUV that can be converted into a camper with ample storage and living space. The Discovery offers 9.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, 45 cubic feet when the third row is folded, and a total of 74.3 cubic feet with all back seats folded down.

The camper conversion typically involves removing the rear seats and plastic trim to create a more open and customisable cargo area. This process can significantly increase the available space, with one owner claiming that the space becomes "cavernous".

The converted camper can include various amenities, such as a refrigerator, a two-burner stove, a sink, and even a full bathroom with a shower and toilet. Additionally, there is often "tons" of storage space for gear and supplies.

One unique feature of the Land Rover camper is the elevating roof, which provides ample headroom to stand and move around comfortably. This extra space can also be utilised for storage, with custom roof racks and accessories available.

The interior of the camper can be designed with numerous storage options, including storage boxes, hidden cupboards, and pockets, ensuring that gear does not take up valuable floor space. The company CamperHus, for example, offers a conversion that includes a kitchenette area with a fridge, hob, sink, and storage, as well as a spacious sink unit, electrical hookups, and a leisure battery.

The versatility of the Land Rover Discovery, combined with its spacious interior and ample storage options, makes it a popular choice for adventurers seeking a mobile home that can handle rough terrain.

Camper suitability and limitations

The Land Rover Discovery Camper is a suitable option for those seeking a blend of off-road capability and camping amenities. Its spacious interior, raised roof, and ample storage make it a comfortable choice for camping enthusiasts. However, it's important to consider the limitations as well.

One of the key advantages of the Land Rover Discovery Camper is its off-road prowess. With its renowned off-road chops, the Discovery Camper can tackle rugged terrain with ease, making it ideal for camping adventures off the beaten path. The raised roof provides ample headroom for adults to stand, enhancing the sense of space inside.

In terms of amenities, the Discovery Camper is well-equipped. It typically features a refrigerator, a stove, a sink, and even a full bathroom with a shower and toilet. The water storage capacity varies, but some models can hold up to 16 gallons of fresh water and 5 gallons of grey water. Power options include a house battery, solar panels, and the ability to connect to shore power.

When it comes to storage, the Discovery Camper excels. It offers generous storage space for camping gear, recovery tracks, and other essentials. The rear sunroof also doubles as a vent, keeping the interior well-ventilated during cooking or sleeping. Additionally, the abundance of glass makes the interior feel light and airy.

However, it's important to acknowledge the limitations of the Land Rover Discovery Camper. While it provides a comfortable camping experience, it may not be suitable for extended off-grid living. The bed configuration varies across models, with some offering a fixed bed and others featuring a convertible bench-to-bed setup. The available space for storage and living may be limited for longer trips or larger groups.

Another factor to consider is the vehicle's performance when towing. While the Discovery has sufficient power for towing, the handling dynamics change when a trailer is attached. The addition of outrigger mirrors can improve visibility, but towing a trailer through narrow passages or construction zones can be challenging. Additionally, fuel efficiency decreases significantly when towing, requiring more frequent fuel stops.

In conclusion, the Land Rover Discovery Camper is a suitable choice for camping enthusiasts seeking a balance between off-road capability and camping amenities. It offers a comfortable and well-equipped space for short-term camping trips. However, for those planning extended off-grid adventures or accommodating larger groups, it may be necessary to consider alternative options or modifications to enhance the vehicle's capabilities.

Camper costs and pricing

The cost of a camper will depend on the type of camper you want to buy. There are several types of campers, including pop-up trailers, truck campers, teardrop trailers, and caravan campers. The price of a camper can range from a few thousand dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars, depending on the features and amenities included. Here are some factors to consider when budgeting for a camper:

• Size and Type: The size and type of camper you choose will significantly impact the cost. For example, a small pop-up trailer will be much less expensive than a large motorhome.
• New vs. Used: Buying a used camper can be a more affordable option than purchasing a new one. However, it's important to carefully inspect a used camper for any damage or needed repairs, as this can add to the overall cost.
• Features and Amenities: The more features and amenities a camper has, the higher the price tag. This includes things like slide-outs, appliances, entertainment systems, and luxury finishes.
• Towing and Transportation: Consider the cost of towing or transporting your camper to your desired locations. Larger campers may require a more powerful vehicle for towing, and there may be additional costs for fuel and maintenance.
• Maintenance and Repairs: Like any vehicle, campers require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Budget for these expenses, including winterization if you plan to use your camper in cold climates.
• Campground Fees: When planning your trips, factor in the cost of campground fees, which can vary depending on the location and amenities offered.
• Insurance: Insuring your camper will provide financial protection in the event of accidents, theft, or natural disasters. The cost of insurance will depend on the value of your camper and the coverage options you choose.

When creating your budget, it's essential to consider not only the initial purchase price of the camper but also the ongoing expenses associated with ownership. This will help ensure that you can fully enjoy your camper without financial strain. Additionally, when purchasing a camper, be sure to shop around and compare prices from different dealers or private sellers to find the best deal.

Frequently asked questions