A camper van, also known as a Class B motorhome, is built on an automotive van or panel truck chassis, think Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit, or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. Despite their compact exterior, these vans can include amenities like full kitchenettes, toilets, showers, generators, solar capabilities, and sleeping accommodations for small groups.

Because they're often more comfortable to drive and get better fuel economy than larger motorhomes, they appeal to a wide range of RVers, including plenty of first-timers making their introduction to van life.

Floor Plans and Features

Camper vans come in a variety of configurations, but most share a core set of features worth knowing before you shop.

Rear layout options

Most Class B vans offer one of three rear configurations, each with their own advantages and disadvantages:

Twin beds that convert to a king : maximizes sleeping comfort for two, but uses the most floor space
A sofa that converts to a bed : gives you a more flexible daytime living area
A rear bath : most convenient for longer trips, but reduces sleeping and storage space

Standard features you'll commonly find

Sliding door with inset screen
Optional awning for outdoor shade
Rear hitch for a bike rack or small trailer
Roof ladder access
Under-bed storage compartments, weatherproof exterior bays, and slide-out cabinetry

Higher-end models may also include

Pop-up beds for additional sleeping capacity
Adaptive cruise control and collision assistance
Integrated entertainment systems
Roof racks for additional gear storage

Camper Van Chassis: Why It Matters

Most Class B RVs are built on one of three chassis platforms: Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit, or Mercedes-Benz Sprinter. For most buyers this feels like a fine-print detail, but it has real-world consequences once you own the vehicle.

Each chassis has its own authorized service network, maintenance schedule, and parts availability. Before you buy, familiarize yourself with the shops in your area and know which models they're authorized to work on. If the nearest authorized Mercedes service center is two hours away but there's a Ford dealer around the corner, that's worth factoring into your decision, especially for routine maintenance and unexpected repairs on the road.

Staying on top of the manufacturer's recommended service schedule is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your investment over the long run.

Camper Van Ownership and Maintenance

Learning the systems in your Class B RV before your first trip is the key to a stress-free adventure. Here's what every new owner should get comfortable with:

Tanks and hookups : Know how your freshwater, gray water, and black water tanks work, including how to flush and refill each one. Understand your electrical hookup process before you pull into your first campsite.

Electrical systems : Your RV runs on two different power levels. Everyday items like lights and the awning run on lower-voltage power, while your TV, appliances, and air conditioning require higher voltage from either a campground power post or your onboard generator. Knowing which is which prevents frustration and protects your equipment.

Generator care : If your van has a generator, run it regularly throughout the season even when you don't strictly need it. Generators that sit unused for extended periods can develop fuel and carburetor issues that are expensive to fix.

Your control panel : Get familiar with it before you leave the driveway. It gives you real-time visibility into your battery charge, fuel level, tank capacity, and climate systems, your single best tool for managing your rig on the road.

Camper Van Pro Tips for First-Time Owners

New to RV life? Here are some tips to help you hit the road with confidence:

Spend time at the dealership before you leave : ask every question you have about your specific unit's systems.
Look at many floor plans before committing. Features that seem minor (rear bath vs. rear bed, for example) make a big difference in day-to-day comfort.
Stow everything securely before driving. Items shift more than you'd expect, and breakage is an easy thing to prevent.
Outdoor rugs and folding chairs are low-cost additions that meaningfully extend your usable living space at camp.
Use wheel chocks and jacks when parked to keep things stable while you're loading and unloading.
A backup camera is one of the best investments you can make, especially in tighter campground spots.
If you have pets, keep food in sealed containers and use the exterior hose for post-hike baths.

Frequently Asked Questions About Camper Vans

Do you need a special license to drive a camper van?

In most states, a standard driver's license is all you need. Since nearly all Class B vans fall well under the weight thresholds that trigger special licensing requirements, most owners never need anything beyond what they already carry. Requirements do vary by state, so it's worth a quick check with your local DMV before heading out.

What types of camper vans are there?

When you decide to buy a camper van, you usually have two options. You can purchase a factory-built Class B RV that already has most of the amenities installed, or you can convert a cargo van into an RV with a lot of effort. There are some big differences between van builds and Class B RVs, so make sure you understand what you're getting into before you make a purchase.

Can you use a camper van for full-time living?

Yes, and many people do. If you're interested in the van life, weigh the pros and cons of not having a permanent home. Plenty of van life enthusiasts have full-time jobs and permanent places to park, and they commute to work on foot or by bike.

How long will a camper van last?

A well-maintained Class B can cover impressive mileage, often surpassing what most owners expect. Because they carry a lighter load and have fewer complex systems than larger motorhomes, the engine works less hard and fewer things can go wrong. Regular oil changes, roof inspections, and proper winterization go a long way. If you're shopping used, ask about the maintenance history and be cautious of a unit that sat idle for extended periods, inactivity can cause just as many problems as hard miles.

What insurance do you need for a camper van?

Camper vans require specialized insurance that caters to the vehicle's unique needs. Many insurance companies offer this type of coverage. The cheapest camper van insurance policies only include bodily injury and personal property liability insurance. It's also a good idea to buy insurance to cover comprehensive coverage that can cover repairs to your camper van in a collision with another car or object.

Is it worth it to buy a camper van?

Class B motorhomes are one of the fastest-growing segments in the RV market, and it's easy to see why. They're easier to drive and park than larger rigs, more fuel-efficient, and versatile enough for everything from weekend trips to full-time living. If you're weighing the decision, take a look at our full breakdown of Class B pros and cons.

How reliable are camper vans?

Reliability largely comes down to the underlying chassis. Ram ProMaster, Ford Transit, and Mercedes-Benz Sprinter are all well-proven platforms. Whether you're shopping new or used, it's smart to research the platform, compare maintenance requirements, and, as always, ask questions.

Shop Camper Vans at Camping World

With Camping World, you can enjoy RV living in your Class B RV. Choose popular brands from our Class B RV manufacturers: Winnebago, Jayco, Coachmen, Airstream, and more.

Browse online or visit your nearest Camping World dealership to find the right fit.