In reply to EwanM:
Did you even have an inkling that considering other people’s petty disapprovals would be such a big part of owning a van
I bought my first one recently, a professionally converted VW T5. It’s an 09 plate with a fair if not spaceship mileage and a good history (FSH and mostly been driven on long continental runs). I figured that if a campervan doesn’t suit me I can sell it in a year for little loss, and if it does I can get a newer van and have it converted to my spec after being informed by owning this one on what I want and don’t want in a van.
No pitfalls as yet, I really wanted a Transit Custom but this one appeared and I’m very happy so far. Getting 42-43mpg on a run and once out of town it’s quite civilised and comfortable. Mine has a high top, I’d possibly prefer a pop top not least for the difference in autoroute toll charges. Insurance wise I went with Adrian S Flux who specialise in ‘alternative’ vehicles.
One thing for sure is that while it’s perfectly manageable on tight mountain roads and easy to park, I wouldn’t want anything bigger.
I’ll take the above security advice very seriously.
Let us know what you decide on and good luck if you go for it. I’m loving it so far