Tired of always having to rent a van for your trips? Then it makes sense to start looking for an affordable second-hand model.

We'll show you what to keep an eye on when you want to buy a used camper.

Here at VanSite you'll learn:

• what costs to expect for the purchase and upkeep

• which models are suitable as campers

• why it's worth bringing along someone knowledgeable for the inspection

Let's get started!

When does it make sense to buy a used camper?

Finally! You've got your long-awaited sabbatical sorted out, or found a job you can comfortably do from the road.

Now there's only one obstacle between you and your dream of a trip around the world: you're missing a mobile home of your own.

In these cases, it's worth buying a used camper:

• You're on the road often and possibly for longer stretches with your van (from 40 days/year).

• Your financial situation allows you to cover the ongoing costs.

• Your budget is decent but not enough for a new camper.

• You have enough automotive know-how and can carry out small repairs yourself.

• There's a parking space big enough.

• You're motivated and handy enough to convert the camper to your liking.

• You know exactly what kind of van you want.

• You're aware of how much storage space you need to fit your camping gear.

Recognise yourself in this? Then you're ready for a camper of your own!

Costs to expect for a used van

The camping market has been booming since 2020 at the latest. Anything with four wheels and a decent size is more sought after than ever.

That led to an exorbitant rise in prices, including for used models.

You should factor in these costs when you want to buy a used camper:

• purchase costs

• annual insurance and vehicle tax

• fuel

• unforeseeable costs (from accidents, sudden damage)

• parking costs

• repairs, inspections and garage visits

• conversion and fit-out

• spare parts (e.g. new tyres)

How high the purchase and running costs of your "new" used vehicle will be depends on things like brand, age, engine, weight, condition and size.

Note: If you have a particular model in mind, research these costs as thoroughly as you can in advance so you get a sense of what's coming your way.

Foto von Daniel J. Schwarz auf Unsplash |

Buying a used camper: dealer or private seller?

Whether you buy your dream camper from a dealer or a private individual depends on a lot of factors.

Safety, warranty and price are the deciding factors here.

If you buy from a dealer, you get a 2-year warranty for defects that come up on your camper. However, it's not so easy to prove that these were already present before the sale to you. Prices at dealers are usually quite high.

If you can handle surprises well and your budget is very limited, you can contact a private seller. As soon as the purchase contract is drawn up, you should include everything relating to accidents, defects, spare parts and other contingencies.

Should it turn out that the previous owner's statements aren't accurate, you can challenge the purchase contract afterwards.

Tip: Ask around among your acquaintances and friends. Maybe someone is selling their van and you can grab it cheaply.

Both options have their pros and cons. Especially if you want to buy an older model, it's worth taking a look at the private listings.

Which are the best used campers?

Whether motorhome, estate car or bus: which camper suits you best depends on your needs and how you like to travel.

Want to get going straight away with a motorhome that leaves nothing to be desired? Then take a look at the "Dethleffs Trend T 6717" and "Sunlight T/A" models. Granted: these models aren't exactly cheap, but they offer plenty of comfort.

These are the best minibuses/buses/vans:

• Opel Zafira Life Transporter

• VW T3 - T6, California

• VW T4 Transporter

• Mercedes Marco Polo

• Ford Transit

• Mercedes Sprinter

• VW Crafter

Of course, buying a used camper is no small thing. Maybe you already have a car that, with a bit of imagination and some handiwork, could be converted into a camper?

These car models are suitable for turning into a mini camper:

• VW Caddy

• Opel Combo

• Skoda Roomster and Skoda Octavia

• Renault Kangoo

• Dacia Dokker

Note: Be sure to check your driving licence to find out which models you're allowed to drive!

Buying a used camper: 5 tips for saving money

Before you sign a purchase contract, take a look at our short guide to make the purchase as safe and cheap as possible.

Tip 1: Never buy a van under time pressure

It's of course understandable if you want to get your own van as quickly as possible.

Buying under time pressure is still a bad idea. Watch the market over several months and keep an eye on the price fluctuations.

The best time is the off-season. In autumn and winter you can land real bargains.

Tip no. 2: Why buying a panel van pays off

Used campers that are already converted are usually more expensive than empty panel vans. If you have a bit of DIY skill, you can turn a van into exactly what you want with little money and plenty of imagination.

That way you save a lot of money and get to be creative!

Bild von Silvan Schuppisser auf Unsplash |

Tip no. 3: Don't be fooled by the interior

Some used vans look inside as though their best days are long behind them.

Ugly, dark oak veneer on every cabinet can be enough to take your breath away. Don't let that put you off!

If the condition is otherwise good and you like the model, you should look past the interior fit-out. You can simply rip it out or rebuild it just the way you like.

Tip no. 4: Bring someone knowledgeable to the viewing

Whether you buy from a dealer or privately is secondary for now! A friend with car know-how is worth their weight in gold!

A look under the van and the hood gives important clues about the vehicle's condition.

During the test drive you can also make a detour to the nearest TÜV station. There, the experts can give you a pretty clear recommendation.

Tip no. 5: Gather information about the vehicle before the viewing

So the seller can't sell you JUNK, you should come across as competent and well informed. That will keep them from spinning you a yarn.

Look up a few facts in advance, such as:

• production period of the model series

• common faults

• trim and engine variants

• other notable features

That way you'll make a professional impression.

You'll find more tips on the topic of "buying a used camper" at camper.help!

Conclusion: Buying a used camper, minimal risk, maximum security

Before you decide on a camper, you should be sure of what you really want and what your new companion needs to be able to do.

Before buying, think carefully about whether you really want to buy a van or would rather rent one.

A cost breakdown is a good way to set your financial limits and avoid nasty surprises.

Whether you contact a dealer or buy a used camper from a private seller depends on how important guarantees, warranties and the price are to you.

Sometimes panel vans, combis or poorly converted vans turn out to be real gold mines too and can serve as a starting point for your own ideas.

Good luck buying your own camper! By the way, for your new van you'll find suitable nature-friendly pitches in Germany and Europe.