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The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best Campervan

Looking for the best campervan for travel? You’ve come to the right place.

Whether it’s a weekend escape or a month-long road trip, finding the right campervan can change everything. It’s not just about how it drives… it’s about how it lives. Do you want a comfy double bed? A clever side kitchen? 

At Free Spirit Campervans, we’ve got you covered.

We offer award-winning, ULEZ-compliant Japanese campervans that tick all the boxes. From the iconic Mazda Bongo, to the spacious Nissan Elgrand, to the sleek Mercedes Viano, each van is expertly converted and ready to hit the road. With the largest stock on the South Coast, we’ve got the perfect van waiting for you.

So, what’s the best campervan for travel? Let’s break it down.

Red campervan parked at a beach

Start With the Base Vehicle

Your best campervan starts life as a regular vehicle: your base vehicle. We handpick the best ones; low mileage, great condition, and ideal for camper conversions.

The base vehicles we offer are:

  • Mazda Bongo: Compact, reliable, and full of personality. Easy to park and easy to drive.
  • Nissan Elgrand: Smooth ride, loads of room, and proper luxury on the move.
  • Mercedes Viano: Stylish, premium, and perfect for those who want comfort with class.

Once we’ve chosen the right base, we do the clever stuff: turning it into a true home on wheels.

Pick a Layout That Suits You

The layout makes a big difference to how you live in your best campervan. Luckily, we offer a range of setups.

  • Bespoke conversion for dog owners with secure cages.
  • Side kitchen: Opens up the van and feels more sociable. Ideal for longer trips and bigger vans like the Elgrand.
  • Beds at the rear: Perfect for those who want more space during the day and a proper place to crash at night.

Whichever layout you choose, we make sure it feels like home. Everything’s designed for comfort and ease.

Sleep Well, Travel Far

Every van we build includes a comfy double bed as standard. Whether it’s a rock-and-roll setup or a fixed bed at the back, we make sure you’ll sleep like a dream.

There’s also plenty of storage space, so you don’t have to travel light (unless you want to). From overhead cupboards to under-bed compartments, we use every inch.

Need more gear? No problem. Roof racks and bike mounts can be added too.

blue best campervan showing the inside table, kitchenette and seating

Go Off-Grid with Confidence

Want to take it a step further? We’ve got options for off-grid life too.

  • Add a solar panel for free power wherever you are.
  • Choose a night heater to stay warm all year round.

With these extras, your camper becomes your all-season, go-anywhere basecamp.

Travel Seats Matter

If you plan to travel with friends or family, make sure you’ve got enough travel seats. Many of our vans can seat 4 to 6 people safely and comfortably, all with seatbelts.

We fit swivel seats in the front to help open up the space when you’re parked. It makes a massive difference to how roomy it feels inside.

Make It Eye-Catching

Let’s face it; looks matter. Our campervans aren’t just functional. They’re cool. Each one is finished to a high standard, with stylish interiors and a clean, modern feel.

Want something really eye-catching? Go for custom decals, bold colours, or even a roof tent for that full adventure-ready look.

The VW Transporter Isn’t Your Only Option

We get it—the VW Transporter is a campervan everyone knows. But it’s not the only choice.

Our Japanese imports are just as reliable (if not more), better value, and come packed with features. Plus, they’re usually lower mileage, more compact, and easier to park.

And unlike many used Transporters on the market, ours are fully ULEZ compliant and ready for modern travel.

Why Choose Free Spirit Campervans?

We’re not a big chain. We’re a small, expert team based in West Sussex with a passion for van life. We’ve been converting vans for over 10 years, and we put everything into making them right.

Here’s what sets us apart:

  • The largest stock of Japanese campervans on the South Coast
  • All vans are ULEZ compliant—no extra charges in London or other low-emission zones
  • In-house conversions built with care and attention
  • A choice of layouts, finishes, and features to suit your travel style
  • Friendly, helpful service from people who actually use campervans

So if you’re looking for the best campervan for travel, we’d love to help you find it.

Ready to Hit the Road?

Your dream campervan is closer than you think. Come see us in Chichester, explore our huge range of options, and start planning your next adventure.

We’re open Monday to Friday, and weekends by appointment. Whether it’s a Mazda Bongo, Nissan Elgrand, or Mercedes Viano, we’ll match you with a van that fits your lifestyle.

Free Spirit Campervans: Freedom starts here.

📞 01243 649087

📧 info@fscltd.co.uk

best campervan in blue with pop top roof up and side door open

FAQs

  1. What’s the best campervan for travel if I’m new to van life?
    The Mazda Bongo is a great starter. It’s compact, simple to drive, and has all the essentials.
  2. Do your vans come with solar panels?
    Yes, solar panels are available as an optional upgrade. Great for off-grid adventures.
  3. Are your campervans ULEZ compliant?
    Yes, all our campervans meet ULEZ standards. No daily charges in low-emission zones.
  4. Can I get a campervan with a shower and toilet?
    Yes, several models offer this option, especially the larger layouts.
  5. Where can I see your stock?
    Visit us in Chichester or browse our stockroom online!
Campervan Models | Our Mercedes viano model.

Over 60+ vehicles in stock!

We have a large turnover of vehicles and have many high-quality examples arriving on a regular basis, it is always best to come and see us in person or give us a call for information on our latest stock.

Come and visit us

We are always very happy to welcome you in person! However, to ensure that a member of the team will be available to assist you we do ask that you call us on (01243) 649087 or Email us at info@fscltd.co.uk

We look forward to seeing you soon!