Choosing the right Conversion

No one can tell you which specific vehicle you should buy and use for conversion.  Everyone has their favorite, in fact there is probably a forum discussing this exact topic.  Instead this section looks at the key things you should consider in terms of forward planning and thinking about what you're going to put in your conversion and what you want to use it for and therefore what you should be looking for in a vehicle.

Dimensions - or Size Matters! 
Put simply, your choice of vehicle will dictate how much space you have inside for the conversion.  It will also determine the possible arrangement or layout of what you want inside.   The key dimensions are length and height. 
This consideration makes the VW T5 pretty popular.  They have a good interior space. In terms of size, if you have decided to go for this panel van one of the main considerations is whether to try for a short wheel base (SWB) or long wheel base (LWB).   Long wheel base vans give the most space, for example in a VW Transporter this comprises an extra foot in between the wheel arches.  The downside is this can make them a little harder to manoeuvre. There is also the consideration of roof height as there are also extendable roofs which house bed space.

Engine size is also important.  Generally, the more power, the more you pay but if you are driving long distances and you don't want it to take forever then it is probably worth investing in a bigger engine size - and remember that the bigger the van, usually the heavier it will be and therefore the more fuel it will gobble!  It’s all a compromise as always - If you are happy to pootle about at 40mph then no worries.
Right, one last thing to consider with regards van size.  Roof racks or bike racks are ideal to extend the carrying capacity of your campervan and keeping the inside clear.  However, being able to cram everything you will be taking inside the van at certain times will be useful.  I'm thinking for security in cities and also to get cheaper fares on ferries.  The minute you have external add-ons they will charge more.
The best option is to think about the following...
Size will dictate what you will want to put in the van e.g.:

• cooker / stove and gas
• fridge
• sink and water tank
• second battery
• bed / seating
• table
• storage units
• toilet
• kit / toys (bikes, boats, skis, surfboards etc...)

What you will use the van for:

• long trips
• short trips
• daily driving
• good / bad roads
• just you or 2, 3, 4 people etc...
  ....and then use these to write your wish list of van features and start looking for your dream vehicle!