Thinking of converting UK panel vans into your dream camper but feeling overwhelmed by the choices for conversion? Don’t worry as we’ve put our knowledge together in this full guide.
The information below simplifies your search by presenting every available panel van in the UK, neatly comparing key dimensions of all leading models.
We’ve consolidated all the essential measurements – interior load space and exterior size – into one convenient resource, enabling effortless comparisons between models and manufacturers.
With our structured comparison tables, you can easily pinpoint vans that match your criteria for length, width and height.
Print out the provided tables to quickly compare, highlight, and eliminate options as you plan your camper conversion.
Understanding Van Dimensions of UK Panel Vans for Conversion
Before comparing dimensions, familiarize yourself with these terms:
Wheelbase
The wheelbase refers to the distance from the centre of the front wheel to the centre of the rear wheel. Common abbreviations include:
- SWB (Short Wheelbase)
- LWB (Long Wheelbase)
- XLWB/ELWB (Extra Long Wheelbase)
L and H Numbers
These denote the manufacturer’s specific van lengths and heights:
- L1, L2, L3: Increasing vehicle lengths
- H1, H2, H3: Increasing vehicle heights
Panel Van Interior Dimensions (UK Models)
| Model & Wheelbase | Length (m) | Width (m) | Height (m) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citroen Relay (SWB) | 2.7 | 1.9 | 1.7 |
| Citroen Relay (MWB) | 3.1 | 1.9 | 1.7, 1.9 |
| Citroen Relay (LWB) | 3.7 | 1.9 | 1.9, 2.2 |
| Citroen Relay (XLWB) | 4.1 | 1.9 | 1.9, 2.1 |
| Fiat Ducato (SWB) | 2.7 | 1.9 | 1.7, 1.9 |
| Fiat Ducato (MWB) | 3.1 | 1.9 | 1.7, 1.9 |
| Fiat Ducato (LWB) | 3.7 | 1.9 | 1.9, 2.2 |
| Fiat Ducato (XLWB) | 4.1 | 1.9 | 1.9, 2.2 |
| Ford Transit Custom (SWB) | 2.6 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
| Ford Transit Custom (LWB) | 2.9 | 1.8 | 1.8 |
| Iveco Daily (LWB) | 4.7, 5.1 | 1.7 | 2.1 |
| Mercedes Sprinter (XLWB) | 4.8 | 1.8 | 1.9, 2.1 |
| Volkswagen Crafter (LWB) | 4.3 | 1.8 | 2.1 |
Quick Info For Selecting Your Ideal UK Panel Van For Conversions
- Widest Van: Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer, Citroen Relay (~1.9m width).
- Largest Interior: Iveco Daily 4100L H3 (19.6 m³).
- Longest Interior Load Length: Iveco Daily 4100L (5.1m).
- Fits Typical UK Parking Space (2.4m x 4.8m): Renault Trafic, Vauxhall Vivaro, Nissan Primastar, VW Transporter, Ford Transit Custom.
- Thinnest Van: Volkswagen Transporter.
- Tall Enough to Stand In: High-roof variants of Ford Transit, Mercedes Sprinter, VW Crafter, Peugeot Boxer, Iveco Daily, and more.
- Highest Internal Roof: Citroen Relay, Fiat Ducato, Peugeot Boxer.
- Largest Payload Capacity: Vauxhall Movano L1H1 (1620kg).
Van dimensions directly dictate what you can install and how comfortable the living space will be:
Interior Width
Affects bed layout – wider vans (like the Ducato or Boxer) allow east-west sleeping (side to side), saving interior length for storage, seating, or kitchen areas.
Interior Height
Determines if you can stand fully upright. High-roof (H2/H3) or super-high-roof vans are ideal for full-time living, allowing cabinets, overhead storage, and integrated showers.
Interior Length
Longer vans offer more zoning opportunities – dedicated areas for sleeping, cooking, and working. This also increases the possibility for fixed beds, larger water tanks, and full-size appliances.
Payload Capacity
Impacts how much gear, equipment, and water you can safely carry without exceeding legal weight limits.
Most Durable UK Panel Vans For Long-Term Camper Conversions…In Our Experiece
Some vans are better suited for long-term conversions due to their build quality, support network, and mechanical resilience. We’ve put together our most durable recommendations.
Mercedes-Benz Sprinter
Known for long-lasting engines, especially post-2014 models. Excellent for heavy-duty builds and long-term travel, especially with 4×4 variants of the Sprinter-type vans.
Ford Transit
Widely available parts and strong service network make it easy to maintain. Ford Transit conversions are ideal for moderate-to-heavy use with good structural integrity.
Fiat Ducato / Peugeot Boxer / Citroen Relay
Their boxy shape makes them a favorite for converters, and though not as robust as the Sprinter, they hold up well if regularly maintained.
Volkswagen Crafter / Transporter
Built with quality in mind and often retain value well. The Transporter is particularly known for its reliability in compact conversions.
Best Fuel Efficiency For UK Panel Vans Camper Conversion
No one likes spending fortunes on fuel and we’re no different. So we took a look at which are the most fuel-efficient panel vans suitable for camper conversions.
Ford Transit Custom (2.0 EcoBlue engines)
Often praised for returning 35-40 mpg depending on driving style and load. It’s a solid choice for urban and long-distance travel.
Volkswagen Transporter T6.1 (2.0 TDI)
Known for excellent efficiency and reliable performance, offering around 38-45 mpg, making it one of the most economical vans.
Peugeot Boxer / Fiat Ducato / Citroen Relay (2.2/2.3 diesel variants)
These vans share platforms and engines, and with lighter builds, they offer approximately 32-40 mpg, depending on model year and load.
Renault Trafic / Vauxhall Vivaro (1.6–2.0 diesels)
Efficient, especially on motorway runs, achieving up to 45 mpg with eco driving.
For maximum efficiency, consider models with start-stop systems, AdBlue usage, or hybrid tech (as seen in newer Transit Custom PHEV models).