The best camper isn't the best-equipped one, but the one that fits how you travel. Go through these questions before you start looking — it will save you months of doubt and stop you paying for space or options you'll never use.
How often and for how long do you go away?
Three two-week trips a year calls for something different than going away every weekend. Those who travel often and briefly benefit most from a camper that's always ready: fixed bed, no converting, everything can stay packed. Those who take two long trips a year can weigh living space and autonomy more heavily.
With how many people — and who?
Two adults, or two adults and two children? With four people you need four RDW-approved belted seats, four sleeping spots and considerably more storage. Children sleep fine in a pop-top roof; adults tend to prefer the lower bed.
What are you bringing?
This is the question most often skipped, and the one that matters most. Literally list everything that needs to come along:
- Bikes or e-bikes (weight and carrier!)
- SUP boards, surfing gear, wet wetsuits
- Camping chairs, table, awning
- Kids' gear, toys, pushchair
- Tools, dog basket, climbing gear
Where do you stay overnight?
Always on campsites with electricity and sanitary facilities? Then you don't need to invest heavily in battery capacity and water storage. If you want to go off-grid regularly, a solar panel, a larger battery pack and a portable toilet aren't a luxury — they're essential.
Does it also need to be your everyday car?
If so, height is the hard criterion: under 2 metres with the pop-top roof folded down. Driving behaviour, parkability and fuel consumption matter too — as does your partner's willingness to drive it to the station.
What's your budget — including the years after?
Add insurance, road tax, maintenance and any storage costs to the purchase price. And look at the other side: what do you expect to get back through resale or rental?
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Open day every month in Vinkeveen — both models are ready for you.