The short answer
Camper van prices vary enormously. Commonly cited ranges run from around $15,000 for an older used van or a basic self-built conversion to well over $100,000 for a newer professionally built van, with luxury builds going higher still. Because the spread is so wide, it helps to think in tiers and to be clear about what you are paying for.
Typical price tiers
These tiers are approximate and shift with the market.
- Budget (roughly $15,000 to $50,000). Older, higher-mileage vans, or a basic DIY conversion. Expect more repairs and fewer comforts.
- Mid-range (roughly $50,000 to $110,000). Newer used vans, such as a Sprinter, Transit or ProMaster, with a complete professional or high-quality DIY conversion, plus some entry-level factory camper vans.
- Premium (above roughly $110,000). New chassis with a professional build, often with lithium power, a bathroom, heating and cooling and better insulation.
Prices for used vans move with demand, so check current listings rather than relying on any article, including this one.
What moves the price
- Chassis and age. A newer van with low mileage costs more but may need fewer repairs.
- Size. Longer and taller vans give more living space but cost more to buy and fuel.
- Conversion quality. Insulation, wiring and plumbing done well cost money, and poor work can create safety problems.
- Power system. Batteries, solar and an inverter can account for a large part of the build.
- Bathroom and kitchen. A wet bath, a toilet or a full kitchen raises the cost.
- Four-wheel drive or other specialist features.
Buy, build or convert
Buying a finished van saves time and you can see what you are getting, but you pay for someone else’s labour.
Building yourself can cost less, but tools, materials and time add up. Many first-time builders end up spending more than planned. Skills in wiring and gas systems matter for safety.
Buying a used conversion may be the cheapest route to a working van, but inspect the vehicle and the build carefully, including signs of leaks, rust and amateur wiring.
The question of whether it is cheaper to build or buy has no universal answer. It depends on your skills, the market and how much you value your time.
Cheapest options and their tradeoffs
Older vans and simple setups cost least. The tradeoffs are reliability, parts availability, fuel economy and sometimes insurance or financing. A cheap van that needs frequent repairs can cost more over time than a pricier, more reliable one. Always arrange a pre-purchase inspection from a mechanic you trust.
Van or RV: which costs less?
A van is usually cheaper to run, easier to park and uses less fuel, while a larger RV gives more room, often at a higher purchase price and with higher upkeep. Which is cheaper overall depends on what you compare and how much you use it. Our article on living in a camper versus renting looks at this from the housing angle.
Ongoing ownership costs
The purchase price is only one piece. Budget also for:
- Insurance and registration
- Fuel
- Maintenance and repairs
- Campsites and parking
- Phone and internet
See the vanlife budget for typical monthly figures.
Before you buy
- Set a total budget that includes repairs and a cushion.
- Rent a van first if you can.
- Get an independent inspection.
- Check the title, service history and any recall notices.
- Get insurance quotes before you commit, since classification affects the price.