The Value Of Camper Vans: How Much Are They Worth?

Camper vans are an increasingly popular way to travel and live, but how much do they cost? The price of a camper van varies depending on whether it is new or used, and whether it has been professionally or DIY converted. High-end, brand-new camper vans can cost between $200,000 and $300,000, while older, used vans may cost $25,000 or less. DIY van conversions tend to cost between $10,000 and $50,000, not including the cost of the van itself. Used camper vans generally sell for $60,000 or more when they are in good condition and have low mileage.

Camper van living costs

The cost of living in a camper van full-time is highly variable, depending on your lifestyle choices, the type of van you buy, and other factors. However, it is generally considered a cheaper option than paying rent or a mortgage.

Initial Cost of the Camper Van

The price of a new or used camper van can vary from as little as $10,000 for older used models to over $200,000 for new, top-of-the-line models. A fully renovated van will cost more than one that is "bare bones". If you are handy, you can save money by buying a cheap but mechanically sound van and renovating it yourself.

Running Costs

Travel Insurance and Registration

As with any vehicle, you must ensure your camper van is properly licensed, registered, and insured. Insurance costs will depend on the state, your driving record, and the type of van you own. On average, full-time insurance for a camper van can range from $1,000 to $2,000 per year. In some states, the van may also need to pass an emissions test, which can be an unforeseen expense if the van is second-hand.

Fuel

Fuel expenses can add up, especially if you drive a lot and move often. Older camper vans are not very fuel-efficient, especially when loaded with your belongings. Many motorhomes get less than 20 miles per gallon on average. It is recommended to estimate the cost of fuel in advance by multiplying the number of miles your van gets per gallon by how many miles you think you'll be driving, and then budgeting for this expense on a monthly basis.

Parking and Camping Fees

When you're not driving your camper van, you'll need to park it somewhere. Camping fees vary widely but usually range from $10 to $50 per night. If you're determined to park for free, you may need to do some research to find suitable locations, such as large parking lots, parks, or roadside pull-offs, where overnight parking is not prohibited.

Food

When you arrive at new destinations, it can be tempting to try new restaurants, but eating out can quickly add up. To save money, consider using your motorhome kitchen and eating in. For two people, most full-time van lifers report spending between $125 and $150 per week on groceries, which is similar to what you might spend in a traditional home.

Vehicle Maintenance and Repairs

Depending on how many miles you put on your van, you may need to budget for frequent vehicle maintenance such as oil changes, tire rotations, alignments, and brake replacements. It is important to keep up with basic maintenance to avoid breakdowns, especially when travelling. Many people who live in their camper vans year-round recommend having a sizable savings before hitting the road to cover any unexpected expenses, such as mechanical problems, which can be costly.

Additional Costs

Other costs to consider when living in a camper van include phone plans (for unlimited WiFi), gym memberships (for access to showers), laundry, entertainment, and health insurance.

DIY vs professional builds

There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to build your own camper van or hire a professional to do it for you. Both options have their pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on your budget, skill set, and time constraints.

DIY Camper Van Builds

Building your own camper van can be a fun and rewarding experience, and it can also save you a lot of money. If you have experience with building and customising things, and you have the time and space to work on your van, then a DIY build may be the best option for you.

• You can save money by doing it yourself.
• You have the flexibility to change your conversion if you don't like something.
• It can be a fun and bonding experience.
• Your van build will be unique and one-of-a-kind.
• You will be more familiar with how everything works and will be able to repair things yourself.

However, there are also some cons to consider:

• It can be a frustrating and time-consuming process if you don't know what you're doing.
• It can be difficult to get RV insurance for a DIY build.
• The resale value of a DIY van may not be as high as a professional conversion.
• You will need a place to store the van and your tools during the build.

Hiring a Professional Camper Van Conversion Company

If you don't have the time, skills, or space to build your own camper van, then hiring a professional conversion company may be the better option. Professional van conversion companies have the experience and expertise to create a high-quality, custom van that meets your specific needs.

• It's easier to get RV insurance for a professionally converted van.
• You're more likely to have a professional-grade job done.
• Professional van builds tend to hold their value better than DIY vans.
• You'll have more time for other things like family and work.

However, there are also some cons to consider:

• It can be more expensive to hire a professional.
• It may be harder to change something you don't like after the conversion is done.
• You may not be as familiar with how everything is set up, so you may have to pay to have things fixed.

Ultimately, the decision to DIY or hire a professional depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. If you have the time, skills, and space to build your own van, then a DIY conversion can be a fun and rewarding experience. However, if you don't have the time or expertise, hiring a professional conversion company may be the better option to ensure a high-quality, custom van that meets your needs.

Fuel costs

The fuel efficiency of a camper van depends on various factors, such as the size, weight, and engine capacity of the vehicle. Camper vans, also known as Class B RVs, typically have better fuel efficiency than larger motorhomes like Class A and C RVs.

Class B motorhomes, or camper vans, are the smallest type of motorhome, weighing between 6,000 and 8,000 pounds (2,700 to 3,600 kilograms). They have the best fuel efficiency among the three classes, averaging around 18-25 miles per gallon (mpg). Filling up a typical Class B motorhome fuel tank would cost approximately $93.

Class C motorhomes are smaller than Class A but still offer ample living space. They usually weigh between 10,000 and 14,000 pounds (4,500 to 6,300 kilograms) and can achieve mileage between 10 and 14 mpg. Filling up a Class C motorhome fuel tank typically costs around $214.

Class A motorhomes are the largest and heaviest, weighing between 20,000 and 50,000 pounds (9,000 to 22,700 kilograms). Due to their size and weight, they have lower fuel efficiency, averaging around 8-10 mpg. Filling up a Class A motorhome fuel tank can cost around $312.

When budgeting for fuel costs, it is important to consider the varying fuel prices across different states and petrol stations. Additionally, the distance travelled and the fuel efficiency of your camper van will impact your fuel expenses.

For example, with average gas prices at $3.60 per gallon, filling up the average 25-gallon tank of a camper van would cost about $90. The average camper van gets about 15.5 mpg, allowing you to drive approximately 387 miles on a single tank. For context, the average family drives about 300-500 miles per week while travelling.

To estimate your fuel costs, you can calculate the number of miles your van gets per gallon and the expected mileage you will be driving. This will help you budget for fuel expenses on a monthly or weekly basis.

It is worth noting that diesel engines tend to have better fuel efficiency than unleaded gasoline engines, but diesel fuel is generally more expensive. Additionally, the weight of your camper van and your belongings can impact fuel efficiency, with heavier vehicles tending to be less fuel-efficient.

When considering the fuel costs of a camper van, it is essential to factor in the varying fuel prices and the specific details of your vehicle, such as size, weight, and engine capacity. By understanding these factors, you can make informed decisions and budget accordingly for your travels.

Camper van insurance

The cost of camper van insurance depends on several factors, including the driver's age, driving history, address, and the make and model of the vehicle. Comprehensive camper van insurance is the highest level of cover, protecting the vehicle itself and any expensive gear or possessions inside. Third-party fire and theft, as well as third-party-only policies, are also available at lower costs.

When taking out camper van insurance, it is important to consider the level of cover needed, especially if the camper van is used for travelling abroad. Other factors that may influence the cost include annual mileage, usage patterns, parking arrangements, and security measures.

Specialist camper van insurance providers can offer tailored policies to suit individual needs, including cover for classic camper vans, modified vehicles, and temporary insurance for short-term trips. It is recommended to shop around and compare quotes from different providers to find the best value for money.

In addition to camper van insurance, it is worth considering breakdown cover as an optional extra, providing roadside assistance and recovery in the event of mechanical failure.

Camper van valuation tools

There are several tools and methods to help you determine how much your camper van is worth. Here are some steps and resources to guide you through the process:

Online Valuation Tools:

• NADAguides: NADAguides is a vehicle valuation tool that can assist you in determining the value of your Class B RV or camper van. While the tool may not always provide an accurate valuation due to the specificity of Class B RVs and camper vans, it can still give you a starting point. Be sure to be honest about the condition of your vehicle and always provide accurate mileage information.
• National Vehicle's RV valuation tool: National Vehicle has experts who specialise in providing accurate valuations for RVs, camper vans, and Class B RVs. They have experience in valuing hundreds of vehicles weekly and offer their valuation services for free.
• SellMyMotorhome.com: This website offers a free online motorhome valuation service. You can enter your registration number to receive an instant valuation or call their team to discuss motorhome prices in more detail. They guarantee the accuracy of their valuations and provide a hassle-free selling experience.

Research Similar Vans:

Before setting a price, it's a good idea to research what similar used camper vans are selling for. Check online listings and compare prices for vans with similar makes, models, ages, and features. This will give you a sense of the market value for your type of camper van.

Dealership Valuation:

Consider taking your camper van to a dealership and asking for a trade-in value. Dealerships may offer you a lower price, often 25-30% less than what you could get by selling it privately. However, this can still give you a reference point for your van's worth.

Consider Key Factors:

When valuing your camper van, keep in mind that the final price will depend on various factors, including:

• Age and Mileage: The age and mileage of your camper van are essential factors in determining its value. Older vans with higher mileage will generally be worth less than newer, low-mileage ones.
• Condition and Renovations: The overall condition of the van, including any renovations or upgrades, will impact its value. A fully renovated van with modern fixtures and fittings will typically fetch a higher price than a "bare bones" van.
• Market Demand: The demand for camper vans and Class B RVs can fluctuate. Currently, there is a high demand, which has positively influenced resale values. Spring and the beginning of the camping season are also ideal times to sell, as people are eager to get on the road.
• Manufacturer and Model: The brand, manufacturer, and model of your camper van can impact its value. Some brands, such as Airstream and Winnebago, are known for their higher-end vans and may command higher prices.

Remember, the value of your camper van will ultimately depend on the specific details of your vehicle and the current market conditions. Using a combination of these tools and considerations will help you set a fair and competitive price when it comes time to sell.

Frequently asked questions