The Cheapest Vans to Convert Into Campervans in the UK — Realistic Budget Builds That Actually Work

Cheapest Vans to Convert Into Campervans UK Guide

Finding a cheap van to convert into a campervan sounds simple, until you realise many budget lists online ignore UK prices, availability and real-world running costs. The truth is that some of the most affordable vans in Britain make brilliant camper builds if you choose carefully and design the layout around the vehicle rather than chasing trends.

This UK-focused guide looks at the cheapest used vans you can realistically buy and convert today, from small micro campers to full-size panel vans. If you're researching the cheapest vans to convert into campervans UK, focusing on practical used models with simple layouts is one of the easiest ways to start vanlife without overspending.

Quick Answer: Cheapest Vans to Convert Into Campervans UK

Best cheap small van: Citroën Berlingo or Peugeot Partner

Best cheap medium van: Renault Trafic or Vauxhall Vivaro

Best cheap large van: Renault Master or older Ford Transit

Best alternative budget build: Ex-minibus or Luton box van

Cheap doesn’t mean unreliable, it means choosing vans that are widely available, easy to repair and realistic for UK roads.

Why Cheap Vans Can Make the Best Camper Conversions

Many first-time builders assume they need an expensive Transporter or Sprinter. In reality, some of the best camper builds start with humble work vans that cost far less to buy.

Advantages of starting with a cheaper base vehicle:

• Lower financial risk for first-time builders

• More budget available for insulation, electrics and comfort

• Less stress about cosmetic imperfections

• Greater freedom to experiment with layout ideas

A well-maintained van with higher mileage is often a smarter buy than a low-mileage vehicle with hidden issues.

How to Choose the Cheapest Vans to Convert Into Campervans UK

Before choosing a specific model, it helps to understand how van size affects price and build cost.

Small Vans — The Lowest Entry Cost

Small vans are usually the cheapest way into vanlife. Because they’re used by tradespeople and delivery drivers, there’s a huge second-hand market across Britain.

Typical advantages:

• Lower purchase price

• Cheaper insurance

• Better fuel economy

• Easier driving in cities and villages

Trade-off:

• No standing room

• Requires clever space-saving layouts

Medium Vans — Affordable and Versatile

Medium vans often offer the best balance between cost and usable space. Many older fleet vehicles are sold at reasonable prices, making them ideal for budget builds.

Benefits:

• Enough room for beds and compact kitchens

• Comfortable long-distance driving

• Easier parking than large panel vans

Large Vans — Big Space for Less Money

Surprisingly, some large vans can be cheaper than smaller models simply because demand is lower among everyday drivers.

Advantages:

• Standing height potential

• Fixed bed layouts

• Large storage areas

Trade-off:

• Slightly higher fuel and maintenance costs

The Cheapest Small Vans to Convert

Citroën Berlingo — The Budget Micro Camper Favourite

Citroen Berlingo Budget Micro Camper Conversion Interior

The Berlingo is one of the most affordable vans on the UK used market. Parts are widely available and servicing costs are generally low.

Why it works well as a camper:

• Flat load area makes bed platforms easier to build

• Compact size for stealth camping

• Ideal for weekend adventures

It’s particularly popular with solo travellers who want something that doubles as a daily driver.

Peugeot Partner — Reliable and Widely Available

Closely related to the Berlingo, the Partner offers similar practicality at competitive prices.

Strengths:

• Huge supply across the UK

• Simple interior shape

• Often cheaper than VW alternatives

Budget builders often favour simple folding bed layouts and lightweight storage to keep costs low.

The Cheapest Medium Vans to Convert

Renault Traffic — A Strong Value Choice

Renault Trafic Budget Campervan Interior UK

The Renault Traffic has quietly become one of the best-value medium vans for camper conversions.

Reasons it’s popular with budget builders:

• Car-like driving feel

• Practical interior width

• Lower used prices compared to premium brands

Many UK converters find it offers enough space for comfortable layouts without moving into large van territory.

Vauxhall Vivaro — Practical and Affordable

Sharing a platform with the Trafic, the Vivaro is easy to find on the second-hand market.

Advantages:

• Competitive pricing

• Good fuel economy

• Straightforward conversion potential

Because these vans were widely used by fleets, you’ll often find high-mileage examples that still have plenty of life left.

The Cheapest Large Vans to Convert

Renault Master — Huge Space on a Budget

The Renault Master often appears at surprisingly low prices compared to other large vans.

Why it stands out:

• Generous interior dimensions

• Ideal for fixed bed layouts

• Strong choice for full-time builds

Budget builders can create spacious interiors without paying premium brand prices.

Older Ford Transit — The UK Workhorse

Older Transits remain a solid option for DIY camper builds.

Strengths:

• Easy to repair

• Massive parts availability

• Familiar to UK mechanics

Many successful conversions start with older work vans that are structurally sound but cosmetically rough — perfect for a camper transformation.

Alternative Budget Campervan Bases

Ex-Minibus Conversions

Old minibuses can be incredibly affordable and already have windows and seating rails installed.

Benefits:

• Spacious interiors

• Family-friendly layouts

• Unique conversion possibilities

Removing seats creates a blank canvas for creative designs.

Luton Box Vans — Maximum Space for Minimum Cost

Luton Box Van Budget Camper Conversion UK

Luton vans are often overlooked but offer exceptional interior volume.

Advantages:

• Overcab sleeping area

• Huge rear living space

• Often cheaper than traditional camper bases

For builders who prioritise interior room over stealth looks, they represent outstanding value.

What to Check Before Buying a Cheap Van

Buying on a budget doesn’t mean ignoring condition. Always inspect:

• Rust around wheel arches and sills

• Service history

• Signs of leaks or structural damage

• Suspension wear

• Tyre condition

A slightly more expensive van in better condition can save money long term.

Realistic Campervan Conversion Costs in the UK

Choosing a cheap base vehicle frees up budget for the build itself.

Typical DIY conversion ranges:

Small vans: £1,000 to £4,000Medium vans: £4,000 to £10,000Large vans: £8,000 to £20,000+

Costs vary depending on insulation, electrics and interior finish, but starting with a lower-priced van makes experimentation easier.

Common Budget Campervan Mistakes

Even experienced builders sometimes make these errors:

• Buying a van that’s too small for their plans

• Ignoring payload limits

• Copying expensive layouts from luxury builds

• Overloading the interior with heavy furniture

Planning realistically around your travel style is often more important than chasing a specific van model.

Why Cheap Doesn’t Mean Compromise

Some of the most interesting UK camper builds begin with inexpensive vans. A creative layout and thoughtful design can transform a basic work vehicle into a comfortable home on wheels.

Instead of focusing on prestige brands, many UK vanlifers prioritise practicality, reliability and the freedom to travel without worrying about damaging an expensive base vehicle.

Next Step for UK Vanlifers

If you want a full breakdown of all van sizes, layouts and alternatives, read our complete guide to the best vans to convert into a campervan in the UK.