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Types of campervan
Choosing the best campervan to suit you
Campervans are versatile, adaptable and functional options for heading away on a UK holiday. There are lots of different types of campervan, from pop tops to van conversions and classic VW campervans.
Whether you're looking for a small campervan for two, or something larger for a family, we can help you make your choice.
✔ Easy storage with the retractable roof (not found on high top options)
✔ Good for everyday use due to the size and driveability
✘ Limited headroom and internal space when the roof is not extended
✘ Seasonal travel can be affected due to heat loss which is common in rising roofs, especially those made of canvas
Popular and versatile
Arguably the most popular and widely-owned type of campervan, a lot of outfits in current use can be classified as a rising roof, or pop-top campervan.
This type of campervan has the additional feature of an expanding push up/pop-top roof. The mechanism itself is usually made of metal, with the sides being made of various types of material (such as canvas). Depending on the model, they can open to the front, back or side.
Pop-top campervans are hugely versatile, making them a great choice of outfit for any tourer. The expansion allows you to adapt your campervan to suit your needs.
This could include extra sleeping space perfect for young explorers or much-needed ventilation for drying outdoor gear!
Perfect for beginners
The other great aspect of pop-top campervans is their driveability. Driving this type of campervan is very similar in feel to a car. Its small size makes operating it that much easier – which is perfect for beginners.
Pop-top campervans allow you complete ease of access to those tucked away spots, which might be harder to reach in a caravan or motorhome due to their size & manoeuvrability.
This means neither navigating country roads nor parking in a multi-storey should be a problem!
✔ Increased comfort and storage space with the extended headroom
✔ Long wheelbase options, often longer than many compact built motorhomes
✔ Lots of different styles to choose from - variety of market options available
✘ Wheelbase can restrict internal space on certain varieties of van conversion
Huge variety of styles
High top campervans, often known as high-top van conversions, come in a huge variety of sizes and layouts.
Popular with those who have decided to downsize from a larger motorhome, a high top campervan will still give the freedom to get away at a moment’s notice.
Modern versions have base vehicles which are longer than ever, and the layout can include a washroom, lounge area and occasionally bunk beds.
Space and storage
High top campervans are great for extra space, especially for family holidays and families with older children or a large amount of kit that needs transporting.
Just be aware that the functionality may be affected by its length, usually being over a metre longer than the everyday car, and your journey may be affected by height restrictions.
All things considered – they do make great viewing platforms and storage spaces for surfboards!
Make your van your own
This type of campervan is a winner with tourers who might want to modify their outfit to fit specific requirements.
The freedom to design the interior (self-converting is also an option for the brave!) with only the wheelbase as a restriction appeals to many, and could be a good idea if you have something very specific in mind!
Bear in mind though, that this process may be costly and will certainly prevent you from getting out there straight away!
✔ Increased choice as iconic styles are now expanding in product design and features
✔ Increased social aspect of ownership such as access to classic camper communities and fan clubs
✘ Potentially a higher cost option with to some styles being in high demand and high running costs
✘ Rural and overseas travel can be affected due to limited road surface capabilities of certain models
Classic 'wow factor'
Classic campervans are possibly the most iconic style of all campervans and touring vehicles.
The Volkswagen camper, along with other similar makes/models have been around for more than half a century.
Despite their aesthetic wow factor reminiscent of the 60s and 70s, they are still in production today. These campervans often have a large popular following and offer comfortable accommodation.
Room for the two of us
Classic campervans are designed with shorter trips in mind and only provide accommodation that can comfortably fit two people.
If you are looking for the 'it' campervan and are willing to spend a little more, then the classic campervan is for you.
If you are looking for a more modern and versatile touring vehicle, with a modern outlook on touring and travel – then you might be more comfortable with another type of campervan.
