The 10 Best Used Campervans
There is nothing quite like the feeling of throwing a weekend bag into the back of a van, turning the key, and chasing the horizon. The open road is calling, and finding the perfect adventure companion has never been easier. Whether you dream of waking up to a coastal sunrise or hiding away in a misty highland forest, buying a second-hand camper is your ticket to ultimate spontaneous travel.
With so many configurations, layouts, and base vehicles out there, narrow down your search by browsing online marketplaces. For instance, right now on Gumtree, there are over 5,000 Ads for Used Campervans and Motorhomes, meaning your dream setup is likely waiting just a few clicks away.
To help you navigate the sea of options, we’ve counted down the top ten best used campervans available in the UK, blending everyday usability with that enviable off-grid lifestyle.
10. Mazda Bongo Friendee
Affectionately known just as the “Bongo,” this cult-classic Japanese import is the ultimate entry-level gateway to the campervan lifestyle. It’s compact enough to park in a standard supermarket space, making it a brilliant dual-purpose vehicle for daily driving and spontaneous weekend getaways.
Key features:
- Factory-fitted electric “Aero City Lift” pop-top roof.
- Highly versatile, modular slide-and-fold seating configurations.
- Available in affordable 4WD options for rugged coastal parking.
Gumtree tip: Bongos are notoriously prone to rust around the rear arches. When browsing, ask the seller for photos of the under-seal history.
9. Vauxhall Vivaro (Conversion)
If you love a clean, modern aesthetic without the steep price tag of more prominent brands, a custom Vauxhall Vivaro conversion is a fantastic choice. Favoured by independent UK conversion companies, its boxy shape maximizes every square inch of living space.
Key features:
- Excellent value for money compared to German rivals.
- Wide availability of recent, low-mileage donor vehicles.
- Comfortable car-like cabin controls and excellent fuel economy.
Gumtree tip: Look for conversions done by recognised professional firms rather than pure DIY builds to ensure gas and electrical safety certification is up to scratch.
8. Renault Trafic Sport (Conversion)
The sister van to the Vivaro, the Renault Trafic Sport is highly sought after by lifestyle travellers who don’t want to compromise on tech. Choosing the “Sport” trim level means you get a camper loaded with cruise control, built-in sat-nav, and air conditioning – perfect for long European road trips.
Key features:
- Premium factory cabin tech (Bluetooth, parking sensors, air-con).
- Smooth, economical dCi engines that glide over motorway miles.
- Popular layout options often feature a side-kitchen and rock-and-roll bed.
Gumtree tip: Use the filter tool to search specifically for “Trafic Sport” to bypass standard commercial tradesman vans.
7. Ford Transit Custom (Conversion / Nugget)
The Ford Transit Custom is the UK’s best-selling van for a reason: it drives beautifully. Whether you find a bespoke conversion or the factory-backed Westfalia “Nugget”, this platform offers a lively, car-like drive with a massive community network behind it.
Key features:
- Exceptional handling and parts availability across the UK.
- The unique “three-room” layout found in factory Nugget builds.
- Generous width allows for a slightly wider, more comfortable bed.
Gumtree tip: The Transit Custom EcoBlue engines are highly efficient; check the listing to ensure the van is Euro 6 compliant for ULEZ zones.
6. Auto-Sleeper Symbol
For those who want a touch of heritage luxury and a fully self-contained home on wheels, the Auto-Sleeper Symbol is a masterclass in layout design. Built on a Peugeot or Fiat chassis, it crams a full kitchen, a washroom with a toilet, and a spacious lounge into a van under six metres long.
Key features:
- Fully equipped end-kitchen and dedicated wet-room toilet/shower.
- High-quality, durable British craftsmanship with plush upholstery.
- Large sliding side door allows you to open up the lounge directly to the view.
Gumtree tip: These are incredibly popular with retiring couples; look for listings that include bonus accessories like outdoor safari rooms or bike racks.
5. Elddis Autoquest CV40
The Elddis Autoquest CV40 is a modern, stylish van conversion that captures the essence of luxury van life. Built on a Fiat Ducato base, it features a highly desirable rear-lounge layout, allowing you to open up the back doors to frame your morning view while sipping tea from the comfort of your bed.
Key features:
- Rear lounge that effortlessly converts into a massive double bed.
- Onboard Whale heating system to keep you cosy during winter camping.
- Full kitchen setup including an oven, grill, and three-way fridge.
Gumtree tip: Because these are built to a high spec, use the “Trade” filter to find verified independent dealerships offering warranties on used Elddis stock.
4. Fiat Ducato (Bespoke Off-Grid Conversion)
The Fiat Ducato is the absolute darling of the professional and premium self-build “Van Life” movement. Because it is wider than almost any other panel van, it allows for a game-changing luxury: a fixed, transverse (widthways) rear bed that doesn’t need to be folded away every morning.
Key features:
- Square sidewalls make it perfect for custom, homely wood interiors.
- Massive “garage” storage space underneath the fixed rear bed for surfboards or bikes.
- Wide track width makes it incredibly stable to drive in heavy highway winds.
Gumtree tip: Search for keywords like “solar”, “off-grid”, or “LiFePO4” to locate Ducatos built specifically for wild camping without campsite hookups.
3. Mercedes-Benz Sprinter (Expedition Build)
If your idea of a holiday involves escaping as far from civilisation as humanly possible, the Mercedes Sprinter is the undisputed king of heavy-duty travel. Renowned for million-mile engine reliability, used Sprinters are frequently converted into rugged, high-end expedition vehicles capable of tackling frozen mountain passes or sandy beaches.
Key features:
- Superior German engineering and legendary mechanical longevity.
- High roof clearance allowing tall travellers to stand up completely straight.
- Often converted with heavy-duty all-terrain tyres, solar setups, and diesel heaters.
Gumtree tip: Mercedes Sprinters are incredibly popular, so set up an instant email alert on Gumtree for new listings to ensure you don’t miss out on prime builds.
2. Volkswagen Transporter (T5 / T6 Camper Conversion)
The Volkswagen Transporter conversion is the definitive lifestyle icon. From the T5 to the sleek T6.1, a VW camper conversion holds its resale value better than almost any other vehicle on the planet. It’s a statement of style, a daily driver, and a passport to a massive global community of enthusiasts.
Key features:
- Unmatched resale value and a massive market of aftermarket accessories.
- Compact footprint that fits under standard 2-metre height barriers.
- Endless layout options, usually featuring premium pop-top roofs and rock-and-roll beds.
Gumtree tip: Check the service history for water pump and cambelt replacements – vital peace of mind for anyone buying a used VW Transporter.
1. Volkswagen California
Taking our number one spot is the undisputed gold standard of the campervan world: the factory-built Volkswagen California. Unlike custom conversions, the California is designed and built entirely by Volkswagen from the ground up. Every latch, cabinet, and electronic system is integrated seamlessly, offering an unparalleled premium lifestyle experience.
Key features:
- Central digital command panel managing climate control, fridge, and power levels.
- Space-saving design, including outdoor chairs hidden inside the tailgate and a table neatly stowed in the sliding door.
- Electric pop-top roof and premium driving assists that make it feel like a luxury car.
Gumtree tip: The “Ocean” or “Coast” trims feature the full kitchen setup, while the “Beach” trim offers more seating and a wider bed without the kitchen units. Filter your keywords based on your cooking style!
