Camper Van Options
Camper vans have many optional extras and facilities and most first time buyers or hirers, do not have all the information to make an informed choice over which van to choose. A lot of people will be taken in by the styling of a camper and will pay little attention to the actual facilities. Most campers have basic facilities as standard, enough to just about cover a few nights away. Optional extras can though, make a big difference to your comfort levels.
Several factors should also be taken into consideration, like your current family size and what it may become in the future, as well as the kind of trips you plan to take, the insurance and so on. It also depends on whether you buy a new vehicle or a second hand camper van.
I would like to mention a few of the available optional extras that you may like to consider with a new or even used RV. No matter what you decide now, you can always add extras as you find the need, but it will probably cost you more. Take some time to pick out the right ones now and you can start out with the maximum comfort.
Camper vans are designed to maximize the available space within the vehicles footprint. Obviously, larger vans will mostly result in more space. Deciding how much space you require is a personal choice that you have to make. One thing to note is that you will generally have less space when the camper is set up for bedtime. It is often in the daytime that you will require the most space for ease of movement. Space costs, so try and find a balance that suits your budget.
The living area, including the kitchen are where you will find the most optional extras. As this is the main family working and resting area, comfort and ease of use are prime considerations. Everything from televisions, to microwaves, air conditioning, cookers and expensive music sound systems can be installed customized to your exact needs. Seating areas can be covered in fabric or luxurious leather, floors can be carpeted or tiled. You can even opt for solar panels to save on battery power. Sticking to your budget in the living areas will probably be the hardest of all, just think about how much of your time will be spent in the van.
One option you may wish to include is a driver’s leather seat. High quality leather is durable and comfortable particularly for long journeys. You may also wish to consider more storage space, there are optional extra compartments that come in a variety of sizes. Some of the larger extra compartments usually include water drains in case you have to store liquids. Smaller compartments may not have such features and are often found at floor level, but still offer some great storage space.
Motorhomes and camper vans with simple designs allow you to concentrate on what many owners feel is the most important consideration, that of space. A great exterior will never make up for poor interior planning. Older vans rarely have the flushing toilets and shower facilities you find on the latest models. So you may wish to consider the cost of upgrading a used model to include these essentials. Do not though fill up your recently acquired camper or motorhome with so many extras, that you have no space left for comfortable movement inside.
Filed under: Travel & Leisure