This is an old revision of the document!
Words of Wisdom: “The best van is the one that is best for you.”
After determining that you might want or need to live in a vehicle, one of your first major considerations is “what kind of van should I get?” Sometimes the answer isn't a van at all, but some other platform that meets your needs better, or something you already have available.
This page is a starting point for finding the right vehicle for you.
Additional videos can be found on the pages for each vehicle type in the Vehicles section.
Visit the pages for each vehicle type for additional information and resources.
Vans are the most common choice for those who want to build their own mobile living quarters. For most people, they are a good balance of pros and cons. Professionally converted vans are also available.
See also Van Comparisons and Model-specific weak points.
Common van models:
A Cargo van is the most common “van dwelling” choice.
A Passenger van or conversion van is upfitted with A/V equipment, decor, and a raised roof.
Trucks offer significantly more room than vans, and are generally built on a heavy-duty chassis that will last much longer. However, they use more fuel, usually cost more to purchase and repair, and may be less comfortable to drive.
Skoolies and other buses offer lots of space and windows. Buses are often cheap to buy but may be expensive to convert and operate.
Box trucks provide a large cubic space for an easy build.
Step vans provide a large cubic space for an easy build, with easier access than other trucks.
Ambulances can be a good compromise between a van and truck in terms of size and building platform.
Motorhomes are purpose-built for recreation and living, but are expensive and often have low build quality. They are generally grouped into three classes:
The Class A motorhome is a large, expensive RV that looks like a tour bus.
The Class B motorhome is a mini RV built into a passenger van chassis.
The Class C motorhome is a Cutaway vans with large living spaces and overcab sleeping areas
The Travel trailer is the most common kind of RV in the US. Examples include bumper hitch trailers, 5th wheel trailers, teardrops, canned hams, fiberglass eggs.
A Cargo trailer is a boxy trailer that can be converted to a living space.
A minivan or SUV is a step above living in your car, but gives enough space for sleeping comfortably if the seats are folded down or removed.
Common van models:
After you've decided what kind of vehicle is right for your needs, what next?