Top Tips for Finding the Perfect Used Campervan for Your Next Adventure

You’re here on the rove! website, and just one step away from getting out on the open road to enjoy some quality vanlife. However, making sure you get the right used campervan can sometimes be a bit daunting. When faced with a choice, and with so many different things to consider, it’s easy to get a touch overwhelmed. What you need, then, is clarity. You need to know what your personal needs are, and what to look for when you’re selecting a used campervan to buy. In this guide we’ll cover all of this, and we’ll give tips on how to improve your mobile home-from-home once you’ve bought it.

When you’re shopping for a used campervan, it’s pretty important to do your homework. After all, you’re not just buying a vehicle—you’re buying a home. It’s vital that it ticks all boxes for comfort, reliability and longevity. How do you do that?

Check the condition

This might seem obvious, but it’s easy to get caught up in the overall excitement of finding a campervan and actually overlook the finer points. The vehicle’s general condition is one of the most important things to take note of before you buy.

• Bodywork: Look for any signs of rust (especially around the wheel arches and underneath the chassis) as this can indicate age-related wear or even poor maintenance. A bit of surface rust might not be a deal-breaker, but if the van has extensive corrosion, it could cause structural issues. Check, also, for dents and scratches plus any signs of repair which could point to accidents in the past.
• Engine: Make sure the engine starts smoothly and that there aren’t any unusual noises. A healthy engine is key to a healthy campervan and, as with any vehicle, it’s a good idea to get a professional mechanic to check it over. Check oil levels and brake fluid and look for signs of leaks under the bonnet.
• Mileage: How many miles has the campervan you’re interested in travelled? Too many miles on the clock could be an indicator of extensive wear on the engine and on the mechanical components. A campervan with fewer than 100,000 miles is often a better bet for long-term reliability – but you should always weigh this up alongside the vehicle’s maintenance history. High mileage isn’t necessarily a bad thing if the van has been well looked after.

Once you’re satisfied with the exterior condition of the campervan, it’s time to check out the inside of it. Think about how you’ll use the vehicle day-to-day and ensure that the interior of it will meet your needs.

• Seats: Are the seats in good condition? Check for any rips, tears or excessive wear. The same goes for the upholstery and for any built-in beds. You’ll be spending a lot of your time inside the vehicle, so the comfort available is key.
• Electrics: Does the van have functioning lighting, a working fridge and an oven? Check all of the onboard electrical systems, including the leisure battery (which powers the interior electrics when you’re not connected to mains electricity). If the van has a solar panel (or panels), make sure that they’re fully operational.
• Plumbing: If the campervan has running water, ensure the water pump works properly and that there are no leaks. Test the taps and check the condition of the water tanks.

Make sure all the campervan’s paperwork is present and correct. This includes the vehicle’s V5C registration document, MOT certificates and service history. This history will give you a clear idea of how well the vehicle has been maintained. An MOT certificate is essential for confirming roadworthiness. It’s worth reviewing the past MOT papers to see if there are any recurring issues or advisories.

One common question asked by prospective buyers is “how much fuel does a campervan use?” – and the truth is that fuel efficiency can vary dramatically between different models. Larger vans tend to have more powerful engines and so they’ll naturally consume more fuel. Smaller, lighter models are typically more economical. When you’re considering the fuel aspect of owning a used campervan you should be realistic about your driving habits and the distances you plan to cover.

Once you’ve found the perfect campervan, the fun part begins! Before you hit the road you can really make it your own, with upgrades and personalisation to improve comfort, efficiency and functionality.

Insulation

If you plan to use your campervan through autumn and winter (ie. when the weather is generally much colder) the good insulation is a must. Upgrading the insulation will keep your campervan comfortable year-round. One of the key considerations for owners on an upgrade mission is what insulation to use in a campervan. There are several options.

• Sheep’s wool: A popular eco-friendly choice which is effective at regulating temperature and moisture.
• Foam boards: Excellent thermal insulation but can be more challenging to install.
• Reflective foil: An affordable and easy-to-use option that works well when combined with other insulation materials.

Solar Panels and battery

One of the most practical upgrades for any campervan is a solar panel system. This eco-friendly source of power provides a sustainable way to keep electrical systems running without relying on campsite hook-ups or draining the vehicle’s leisure battery. Upgrading to a larger leisure battery or adding additional batteries can also increase power storage, which would allow you to stay ‘off-grid’ for longer.

Kitchen and storage

You could upgrade the kitchen area to make it more usable. Consider adding a more efficient oven or upgrading the fridge to a more energy-efficient model. Custom-built storage solutions can also make a huge difference in the more compact space available in a campervan, helping you keep everything well  organised and easily accessible.

Comfort

Lastly, a great way to improve your campervan, and therefore upgrade your vanlife experience, is to not overlook the little touches that can make a big difference in your general day-to-day comfort. Upgrading the mattress and adding blackout curtains will improve your sleep-time environment, and having cushions aboard will provide some homely touches during the day. You can easily turn your campervan from a weekend escape option into a full-time home on wheels, if you want to!

Buying a used campervan is an exciting step towards endless excitement and stunning adventures. However, it’s essential to approach the whole thing carefully. Knowing what to look for when buying a used campervan (from vehicle condition to paperwork) can save you time, money and headaches. Once you’ve taken the plunge and made your purchase, the possibilities for bespoke customisation are endless. Are you ready to find your ideal campervan? Check out the selection of used campervans at rove! motorhomes to begin a very special journey.