The Best 5.4 Metre Campervans for 2025 - Our Top Picks from the NEC

[@CampervanTravelsInDora]

Finally an NEC Vlog with a real sense of purpose, instead of the usual stuff of people wandering around aimlessly. This has focus through a set of objectives and is supported by a gentle analysis of what their requirements are in a new van. Well done both 👍

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you - we definitely had a set of objectives - if only I had remembered to take a few more photos instead of just having a good look around each van 😂🚐

[@Mas-lx5nc]

Have you looked at the consort vans? They are rear lounge, but still have a garage space and look incredibly well thought out. My view on fixed bed vans is you are reserving around 40% of your whole floor space just for sleeping - the rear lounge vans look great for relaxing in, then quickly converting into a bed when needed.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Man- they are local to us in Yorkshire and we hear rumours that they have a new lateral fixed bed option so we will seek them out. I don't think they were at the show. We get all the positives of a rear lounge, but we have some things that we are not willing to compromise on that work for our needs- one being not making a bed up each night, and the other having a garage for all of our kit. Many thanks for the comment and the Consort tip🙏 Have a good one👍

[@grabyourthings22]

Great to see all the different 540 vans available and loving your videos as like you I'm early retired. I've had a Westfalia Amundsen 540D for just over a year - done about 17,000 miles and spent about 5 months traveling in it. Love the van, super comfy bed, big garage (skis easily fit widthwise), well put together, heating/ventilation system has been great for both skiing and summer. It's the cheaper version of the Columbus you looked at - less fancy materials etc but perfect for me. There is a shower curtain which I wasn't keen on but it has press studs to secure it to the wall/over the door so doesn't get in the way. Also have an outdoor shower which I tend to use whenever I can as an alternative. My first van so nothing really to compare it to but has worked out great.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Ah nice we will have a look online as we really liked the westfalia vans but they only had the Columbus at the show and never mentioned the Amundsen - we will do lots of skiing and travelling so good to hear your experiences especially of winter travel 🚐☺️

[@macainmhire9149]

We also have an Amundsen 540D and echo all of the above. Coming from a short wheelbase VW T5, although it’s not a lot bigger on paper it feels so much more spacious in practice while remaining easy to manoeuvre and live with. Unfortunately Westfalia discontinued the Amundsen range in 2023, so you either have to find a used one or go with the Columbus!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

😬

[@FrederickBriggs-yr3xc]

We went from a VW style camper to a 5.4m Fiat Ducato based van, as we are of an age where we can no longer be doing with making up a bed every night and using a Porta Potti! We wanted a wider more comfortable fixed bed so bought an Etrusco CV540 DB. They are part of the Hymer group but we liked this sub-brand as it has a lighter more contemporary looking internal decor than many other models. I would suggest if possible you spec up the base vehicle to the 180 hp engine and auto gearbox, as it is something you can't change later. You won't regret it. We did and love it as it makes for a much more relaxing drive with power to spare for getting up into the mountains.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for the recommendation it is not a van we have heard of but will have a look. We like the fiat Ducato as a base van because as you said it is slightly wider than others. 🚐

[@mhskou]

We have a wildax pulsar 5.40. No rear bed but the bed only takes minutes to put up and loads of storage but best of all an oven and proper wet room. We love it, and we are just back from Derbyshire where the smaller van didn't at times feel like a small van! We had a converted T6 previously and haven't looked back since we updraded. We found the rear bed vans always felt tight with lots of "pinch points" when you were always in each others way. That's why we went for the wildax. Great van and very spacious.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Many thanks for this, it's always good to get some first hand perspectives from actual owners on the layout of vans. We know that there will always be some compromises with any style of van, it's just identifying which are important to us. Thanks again👍

[@KarenConnolly-mf1hc]

You both look really comfortable on camera and authentic so give the live blogging a go you’ll be great. Love the review and as older travellers we definitely want the toilet!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you ☺️ maybe one day! We will try more chatting as we go while we are in Thailand to get used to it! It’s taken us 7 years to decide there are the occasional times that life would be easier with a toilet - like being able to use busy city aires 🚐

[@drtom8011]

Great discussion . Trying to balance these lovely vans with the price!!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Many thanks- it's not easy, but in reality, it's a nice problem to have😉

[@philbull818]

We have a seven year old Hymer Ayers Rock. It has no pop-top, so extra light comes in from a window above the seating area. We have never needed to use the shower curtain provided. We just move the loo roll and anything else that might get wet out of the way before we shower. Our fixed bed height allows me to climb over my wife without disturbing her in the night with the use of a stool on the floor next to the bed. We have one re-fillable Gaslow cylinder. No oven, but we never used it in previous Motorhomes. We have a Remoska from Lakeland that we also use for cooking at home also. You do need a hook-up for this. Our diesel heater is quick and effective. We also have windows in the rear sides for more light. Good luck in your search. Phil

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

In the past we have looked at the Ayres rock and really liked it - now it is definitely out of our price range - although we will also look to see what comes on the 2nd hand market 🚐 An oven is not on a list of essentials by any means as in reality it probably take up more space than it’s worth. It is quite exciting looking at what is out there we didn’t realise there would be so much choice 😊 thanks for your thoughts - it’s good to get other peoples perspective on how things work 🚐

[@granddadmark7639]

Great video, we looked at 5.4m van in February at the show after many looks/visits we ended up going for a Westfalia Sven Hedin on a MAN TGE chassis 6m

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

We looked in one of those vans at the show - it looked fab - happy travels 🚐

[@lindastone9385]

Thankyou very much for this vlog. Very informative. Just need to find the money!!!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you - lots and lots of money!! 🚐 But hopefully it will bring many years of joy 😊

[@cmoreton2911]

Don't be put off by the shower in the globecar. It works really well and I actually think it's a clever design, I have the 6.4m campscout with the same concept and it works really well - loads of room in the shower when you need it but not wasting space when you dont! there is a shower curtain to protect the toilet from getting wet, but it's poppered to the wall so doesn't cling. The tambour doors are also good to use as a room divider to separate bed from dinette area. I saw a review from a German on the swingwall design and they said it was a problem if you dropped something..no room to pick it up without opening the door! Globecars are great quality and solidly built.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank for this- it is really reassuring to know. I guess it was just an odd concept to get our heads around- particularly in such a short van. From what a lot of people are saying, the shower experience in any van is quite a unique one in terms of space anyway, so we can see why the designers took this approach. Not sure the swing wall is any good for us too, as you suggest. I would be worried about being able to get my hands above my head, never mind bending down😂😂😂 Thanks again for the first hand tips- it's always good to know.👍

[@dianeflint3812]

There is definitely a 5.4m Swift Trekker - new van for 2024 - I’ve got one along with about 30 others so far! It’s on a Ford Transit base and comes with fixed rear bed, large garage, big pop top bed, solar panel, wind out awning and wet room - no shower curtain! all included in £73,000 price. Great van, majority of buyers have stepped up from VW T6. You should really look at it! This smallest one was on show at NEC along with 6m TrekkerX and new 25 model with rear lounge TrekkerXL. All in distinctive grey with yellow and black.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Diane- it's great to hear, and TBH we are pretty gutted as all the SWIFT reps at the show told us that FORD didn't produce a 5.4m van...so they were clearly just mugging us off and didn't really care to speak to us about their new model. You are right, we recall the vans vividly and they are a great looking van from the outside and come in at a very competitive price point. Back to the internet research😬 Thanks for the comment👍

[@susanmckee8946]

Just watched both your recent videos. Well done on sticking to your style of recording. All very interesting. With a 6 foot 4 other half if we had the money we would go for the Westfalia Sven Hedin which has a side pop out to allow transverse sleeping! Currently parked up in North Donegal in our 3 year old California with the dog..and its blowing a hoolie and lashing down. No toilet means a 200yard treck to the loo..😂. That said its a beauty to drive and the licing space and pop top are just perfect for 2 of us..one up and one down with the dog! Enjoy Thailand. Cant wait to see what you think.of it and what the 20 somethings make of you two youtubers!❤❤

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Susan- make sure you keep yourself safe and dry if it is wild outside! It's currently about 32 degrees out here, which may sound nice, but brings with it it's own problems🥵 Re: the toilet run- we share your pain...our lowest point was when we were skiing and having to rush to the facilities block in the middle of the night at minus 18 degrees🥶 We seem to be getting on well with the younger backpackers...we met a lovely Russian couple on their honeymoon yesterday- they were such sweet people....but younger than our kids😂 Thanks for the comment👍

[@susanmckee8946]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust We are just laughing at the minus 18 loo 🏃‍♂️ run🙈🥶 and the your new backpacking pals being younger than your kids! Hats off to you in that heat. Beach in rain this morning to tire the dog out and now grinding coffee ready for a game of dominoes ..i love half term!! Stay safe.

[@alannorman1773]

Exciting!! We changed from a small van conversion with a pop top to a 6m Ducato this year with the added benefit of a shower room, lovely. Have a great time in Thailand ❤❤.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Alan- glad that you are enjoying your new van and all its little luxuries! We are currently having a blast, so long may that continue on our adventures. Have a good one👍

[@janetbowen7854]

Great video, well done, considering upsizing seems to be a popular discussion for those of us with smaller campervans. Pro's and cons as we know. With bigger vans come additional running costs, accessibility issue (narrow lanes and parking areas with height barriers). However, many people have had successfull upgrades. Its a dilemma. It also depends on camping style and budget. I agree with the desire for an onboard loo, one that can be closed away in a washroom (in reality it's top of the list). A shower is nigh on useless, water pressure, lack of space, risk of water ingress etc., cleaning (although we would all love a Richard "Rate My Shower" on a range of shower options )!! However, great storage for wet coats etc. I do like the vans with the design tweek to hide the loo for protection whilst using the shower (can't remember the technical term). Extra length also brings the potential for parking issues (urban areas including super markets). However, the draw of more internal space, and height, particularly as the UK weather has been shocking this year, is one that is difficult to ignore. It will be interesting to see what happens to the T7 when it becomes available to convertors - there is going to be a LWB that is approximately 15 cm longer than the current LWB on the T6.1 (which we have) at 5.3 m in length. There is also going to be a high top option too. So, interesting times ahead. As well as good quality fixture and fittings, winterisation, practical use of space etc., pop top, or not, (also the emerging option for electric only with lithium batteries and invertors (no gas) for increased possibilities for wild camping) there is the consideration of the base vehicle (swapping a VW for a Fiat (not so sure) it would be good to know from folk who've already taken this route what they think of driving a Fiat instead of a VW. Maybe, given the number of companies using the Fiat Ducato, they are really good to drive, reliable etc.? Have you considered Wildax or Murvi? Both companies convert in this county and have high quality campervans using Ford and Fiats in the 5.4 metre van range. Also, the bigger the van, the greater the possiblity for the dreaded rattling!! Many of us will be following your story on this, good luck.😍 Enjoy Thailand, I look forward to your forthcoming videos on your very special back packing holiday. xx

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Janet- a mine of information that we are truly grateful for. Part of the fun of planning for a new van is the research and getting hands on a range of different vans. Never thought about a rate my shower on them...space scores would be pretty low, and who knows what the hook situation would be like😂 Thanks again🙏 Have a good one👍

[@julian-1955]

Good vlog both of you despite being a different style. Very good that you know what you want, have a list of requirements and are sticking to it. Also good idea to put it out to your community because there has been so much helpful advice from everyone. Enjoy your search.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Julian, we absolutely agree about the community. We couldn't have done it without their advice, guidance and support. Many brains are better than one (or two!). Thanks for the comment👍

[@davidlindley485]

Hi we had the Malibu 640 van charming with the moveable toilet for 4 years and we had no problems whatsoever,. It was totally reliable. On the question of affordability we bought the Malibu new in 2021 and sold it a month ago and got back what we had paid effectively 3.5 years ago. We have now changed to an end lounge but interestingly various dealerships were very keen to buy the Malibu because of its reputation for quality,

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks David- good to hear that you have had a good experience with the brand. Also nice to hear that they keep their value and remain sought after by dealers...although that may not be a good thing for us as potential purchasers😂 Thanks for the comment👍

[@DianaStanyon]

One thing to consider is the overhead barriers at country parks and some parking

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Very true Diana. With our pop top adding a few cm's to our standard VW Transporter we are already paranoid about height barriers- with the Fiat it will only be worse.😬

[@rjjbond]

Great video, and your considerations follow much the same path as our own. We now have a Hymer Yosemite, which we love. The bathroom is the same as the 540. The shower curtain is solely to cover the toilet and window and has magnetic clips, so is not clingy. We use Dry robe seat covers to protect our upholstery and they make a double cover which does fit the travelling seats - also great for dogs! We took were taken with the price point of the Sunlight Cliffs, but further research on the owner's group showed that there was little or no insulation, so not good in winter ❄️ Happy hunting 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Rik- a really useful insight! Nice to know that the shower curtain does have a design solution! Really interesting about the Sunlights- odd that they come from the Hymer group- but owners cannot be wrong. We will definitely take this into consideration because we got down to minus 18 skiing last winter❄️🥶 Thank you so much for taking the time to pass this onto us- we really appreciate it. Have a good one!👍

[@johnfinnie4238]

Very helpful, thanks. All the best with your search.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you ☺️

[@richardaddicott5228]

Really useful, thank you.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

You are quite welcome Richard👍

[@se3059]

I actually thought you did a really good review 👍 Will you definitely be buying new then? I have a 13 yr old 6M Duccato/Adria....one of the best things about having an old van is not worrying when scraping against narrow lane hedgerows!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

With prices as they are we will look at both new and pre owned when the time comes. We would not be averse to a 2 year old van with low mileage. Nelson does have a few marks of a well loved van from the narrow lanes 😂🚐

[@o2explorer290]

There are some very good quality seat covers out there now that can really offset any upholstery concerns - would not put too much weighting on the seat oem upholstery.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this...we think we are going to have to source some for Nelson as he is currently peeling after 7 years of happiness. Thanks for the comment👍

[@shirleylambden1561]

Consort have just started doing a fixed bed so well worth a look

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this tip off Shirley- we weren't aware of that. They are pretty local to us, so we will check out their new model.👍

[@jamesrussell5490]

Thanks for your reply and good luck with your search.

[@thesmudge1353]

I enjoyed this. Our campervan is a 5m pop top with a loo and shower compartment. It is our second car and brilliant, but we would quite like the extra height without having to put up the pop top. We have also set 5.4m as our next van. I can't see the point of dragging anything bigger around. We find that if it is dry we are outside and if it is raining we are inside and cosy.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Wow you have fit a lot into a small van!! Glad you enjoyed the video - we are pleasantly surprised how much choice is out there 🚐

[@thesmudge1353]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust we didn't do it, but yes, it is an amazing conversion by New Horizon. Sadly no longer made.

[@JudyColes]

We have a Knaus Boxstar 540 for many of the reasons you are looking for that size vehicle. One benefit of the van with the smaller ‘garage’ space is that you may be able to sit up in bed with a coffee in the morning (under the overhead cabinets). Something you may not have considered.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this. That is a van I don’t think we have come across yet - I will have a look - we had thought about cupboards but decided we could lean against the back doors when we sit up!

[@stevewilday5137]

Great video and very informative. Just moved to Carerra 194 from VW California for all reasons you mentioned but don't have your consideration of big wall to negotiate at home !! As such went for 6.34 length. Love garage space and fix bed, toilet and shower will be game changer for us. Enjoy your search, it's clear you will make right decision for you both.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Steve- very reassuring from someone who has taken the same considerations. We obviously love Nelson to bits, but as we get older our needs are going to change, particularly when a van is such a long term investment. Thanks for the support🙏 Have a good one👍

[@lenafietst8237]

Nice footage, really interesting. Well done!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Lena...a bit outside our normal stuff, but we really enjoyed putting it together. It really helped us clarify our thoughts. Have a good one👍

[@SmiffsBeardies]

Well done guys, this might not have been your normal style but, I for one, really enjoyed it. Like you, I am thinking that a 5.4m van will be where I moved to next to facilitate a one vehicle only and for just me and the dogs. So this was of great interest. Although at these prices I will need to be finding a used one 😂. Have only recently discovered your channel but really enjoy your style and the adventures you go on. Keep up the great work 👍

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you ☺️ glad you are finding the channel of use! At those prices I think we may be looking at a used van too! We will keep an eye out with a list of the vans we would consider. Since we bought our van Nelson - prices seem to have rocketed!!

[@christineomara4787]

Hi both, we went to the show,, looking at new vans, had a brilliant day, so many, our brains were scrambled by the end of the day. Came away not being able to make a decision, and shattered, great vlog 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

We were abit like that when we went in February so it was good to go this time with certain decisions set like the size of the van and fixed bed - we didn’t really look at any other vans which made it easier 🚐 and there is still so much choice so our brains are still a little scrambled! 🤣

[@vickiphillips4876]

As did I . Have now decided I need to return in February as my criteria has changed! This time will leave my heavy backpack in the left luggage 🤣

[@BlackDogOrangeKettle]

Great video thanks Will be waiting to see what your final choice is. I suppose there is never a perfect van only one with the least most important compromises that you can ultimately afford.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

So true. We all have what we love, and things that we don't want in a van. In reality, there will always be a compromise. That's why this whole process is so exciting! Thanks for the comment👍

[@sylviapage8572]

That’s a great size van. Our last van was a 5.4m Boxer and we loved it but we’ve recently gone up to a 6.3 Ducato with a large rear lounge because we have 3 dogs and need the floor space. I think in the future we will go back to a 5.4m van because they’re a great size for parking. Thanks for sharing an interesting video.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for sharing this Sylvia- really useful getting a perspective from people who have been in both positions. It is the parking that really concerns us about a larger van, as due to the amount of time we spend in it, it is effectively our daily drive. Thinking about parking a big van in a supermarket carpark is bringing me out in a cold sweat😰 Thanks for the comment👍

[@ShonaRobb]

Very interested in this video as it’s exactly what we’ll be after in a few years time when we upgrade our Transporter. Love the option of the bathroom especially to use as a drying room in winter to hang up wet coats etc. Personally I’d prefer the option of a separating loo though and it might be tricky to modify that in many of these vans. Have an amazing time in Thailand. Looking forward to following your adventures. 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Shona- we think the bathroom will mainly be used for drying wet kit too in the winter. We are keen to have heating in there just for that. You might want to check out the 6m Dreamer that has the most amazing solution to having separate shower and toilet space in such a small van. Their solution is mind blowing! If we could have a 6m van, it would be a tough one to beat. Thanks for the comment. We are having a blast in Thailand so far- more on that later in the week! Have a good one👍

[@cedarcanoe]

Poptop when there is a fixed bed with only 2 persons: won’t be used. I understand almost all VW campervan owners have moved on to Sprinter/Crafter/Ducato sized vans. It’s almost like a hype in the past few years. I myself am absolutely in favor of the VW T6 dimensions. I have owned a SWB for 10 years before, and now drive a (fully converted) LWB since recently. It’s amazing how much more you can fit in the LWB. Good luck with the hunt!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this- we really appreciate your views and can see your reasoning. You will know that we love out T6, and it will be with a heavy heart when we change him, but it will only be for positive reasons. If we cannot get the things that we want, we will wait. Thanks again for your support🙏 Have a good one👍

[@TerrySmith-kg5gj]

Excellent video thank you

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

You are quite welcome Terry- we are glad you enjoyed it👍

[@edandjane4050]

Like you, we were teachers and retired early (odd how the job became exponentially more difficult in our 50s). Anyway, we bought an Autotrail 670 that was 8 months old and we saved quite a bit on the new price. Worth considering buying nearly new. We worked out that we've spend 400 days in it since we bought it in 2020. We love it. Best wishes.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Ed and Jane- we are seriously considering this option, particularly now that we think we have a good understanding of the various manufacturers models. It may be a waiting game, but we know from you and other that there are bargains to be had...its just been around at the right time😉

[@geebutteree4755]

Oh I love a good van nosey 😉 thanks guys hope Thailand is good 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Don't we all Gee...that's all part of the fun😂 We are having a blast at the moment in Thailand so 🤞 it keeps going that way.

[@sandymacdonald8485]

Great information! I'm after something similar but at the 5.99 length.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you - there is so much choice out there in the next size up! It’s interesting seeing how different a small van be depending on who converts it!!

[@Bigskydreams]

We bought our first van in Jan this year, which is a Joa Camp 63T and we are really happy with it. We have completed 10,000 miles, including a trip to europe. We also liked the Dreamer vans but couldn't justify the additional cost. You get a lot of extras as standard with Joa. We had some of the decals removed, which we didn't like. Good luck with your search for a new van.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Hi Liz, we were really impressed at the Joa vans and as you say, they come with so many extras as standard. It's a strange question, but we haven't bumped into you guys on the road in the Orkneys have we? We met a Scottish couple who also had just come back from a long European trip in a new Joa van and had chosen to take off some of the decals? If we haven't...you need to know that you have a vanlife doppelgänger😂 Thanks for the comment👍 Have a good one.

[@Bigskydreams]

That's funny! No we haven't met, we are a Yorkshire couple now living in North Wales.😂 We haven't seen any other Joa vans on the road as yet.😃

[@colincox3324]

‘Really’ :) useful and interesting video. Many thanks. I also visited the show to get some ideas on building a van so your thoughts are very helpful. I agree, the prices are eye watering, more than we bought our house for, which perhaps shows my age.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

I don't think it shows anything about your age at all, but it is a sad inditement of the industry that is perhaps pricing people out of the market. They may live to regret that if/when the bubble bursts. Glad that you found the video of use👍 Thanks for commenting👍

[@crivensro]

Thank you so much for your reviews which I find helpful and interesting! Enjoy Thailand!

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Glad you like them and have found the video of use - we have had a fab few days in Bangkok and getting into the swing of city life - it's not like the Yorkshire Dales!

[@jonathanwrighton9913]

We changed our vw transporter this year to a 5.4 meter Westfalia Amundsen which is like the Columbus they are great vans

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Johnathan- someone else has mentioned the Amundsen model- we will have to check it out, as apparently the build quality remains but the price is more realistic? Gutted we didn't see one at the show😬 Have a good one👍

[@KatherineE41]

Very informative, thank you. Did any of the vans have a berth in the pop top?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Katherine. I assume you mean a bed in the poptop? Yes all the models we saw with a pop top roof had a double bed up there. Thanks for asking👍

[@andybrining3090]

Look at Consort Motorhomes in Leeds. We have their 5.4m van and it’s absolutely brilliant. Superb quality throughout and the company are a pleasure to deal with. We actually lived full time in our van for 8 months whilst selling our house and it worked flawlessly. Highly recommended

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Andy, a number of people have mentioned them in response to this and previous videos. We believe that they are now producing a fixed bed model that may well work for us. We are only close in Yorkshire, so we plan to pop down to see their work👍 Thanks for the tip👍

[@andybrining3090]

@ I believe the fixed bed model is 6m long though rather than the 5.4m you’ve been looking at

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

😬

[@joodm5641]

Another enjoyable vlog Richard and Jackie. Loved looking at the different vans you saw at the Show. I like most of them but not keen on a poptop on a van you are able to stand up in. Poptop on our T5 has been a headache. Anyway…enjoy Thailand…I’m sure 'Nelson' is at home missing you and fretting he’s going to be replaced 😉 😃

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Jude...don't worry, we have left Nelson with a baby sitter- he won't be worrying about us😂 We felt the same about pop-tops on the bigger vans until we realised it offered a bit more flexibility if we were to be blessed with grandchildren. We are still a bit undecided because they do add cost, weight and a complexity that a standard van doesn't have. Thanks for the comment👍

[@motorroamingaround]

Hi Richard & Jackie hope the holiday is going well. We really enjoyed the video. There are so many good vans on the market that make it very difficult to choose but we’re sure when the time comes you’ll choose the perfect replacement for Nelson. Keep safe. Irvine & Karen.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Irvine & Karen, we are having a blast so far in Thailand...long may it continue! It really is a minefield of choices out there. More options means more choices which just makes it even more difficult😂 Have a good week👍

[@ScottishVanTrips]

The ducato is great and the 9 speed auto is a must. Mine has the pop top and we use this a lot in the summer. The ovens are OK but use a lot of gas. Pizza and a beer is great but I could probably live without. I'd rather have a microwave. Thought about hiring a 6m van just to see?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Is the pop top comfortable and did you get really hot up there? 2 reasons we never use the VW pop top! We have thought about hiring a van to see how we get on but space behind the house is tight - we can just about turn our VW around and we are in a mid terrace which is only 5m wide on a shared drive so 5.4m is pushing our luck! 😂Would be good to hire a 5.4 to see how it feels. An oven is not really on our list of desirables - probably uses more space than it’s worth!

[@ScottishVanTrips]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust We bought a mattress topper (which lives up there even when not in use) for the pop top, as the one it came with in my van wasn't thick. It's lovely now, they come with Froley (spelling?) springs. In Europe, it can be a bit warm, but you acclimatise. It's nice to have the option, but we do use the inside more if it's just two people travelling.

[@BoninBrighton]

Haha we all know you’re actually in Thailand- but great idea to schedule this video to give you a breather! I hope you’ve recovered from the ✈️.

[@4ndrewthe]

Grass

[@stevenbulmer6424]

@@4ndrewthe,Lemon grass 😁

[@davidlee4966]

Personally I would address the dry stone wall issue first to provide a larger range of options, a 6m van will make a world of difference, bearing in mind it’s a 10 year plus investment. Bear in mind some modern van have incredible turning circles, wider track often provides greater steering lock, try a test drive of a panel van and try it out against your wall issue

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this David- that's is on our agenda before we make a commitment. We are going to hire a 6m panel van for the day and see how we get on. The drystone wall has to remain as we don't own it and it is a retaining wall...a bit of an issue for us😂 Thanks for the comment👍

[@jasonnicol8302]

Very interesting video. Prices are getting steeper, and I can only see them going in one direction. So much choice.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Jason, we were quite shocked...but TBF everything at the show was going up in price. It feels like it will have to stop at some point, but when that is...who knows??? It doesn't feel right as we could not afford a Nelson equivalent if we had to buy him at todays prices. We count ourselves very lucky that we bought when we did- it was definitely luck and not planning! Have a good one👍

[@lingwell1]

Great vlog like you I’m interested in the 540 range thank you

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you 😊🚐

[@ghunt9146]

With you all the way with smaller vans. So much more usable & practical.

[@clivehall5829]

Great video and content as always, would like to echo the comments about consort motorhomes in leeds, we visited there factory last friday and we were very impressed. Another company worth a look is Orange campers in Rotherham S/Yorks, they have a mwb that may suit plus you can hire before you buy, also on youtube. Good luck with your search, we are on a similar timescale for our first motorhome

[@askiro42]

Hi there , just watched you video and im almost exactly tge same a you, can't and don't want a larger van but want all the comforts and practicalities of one. After extensive research ive settled on one you didn't mention which is the Hymer Ayers Rock. You can spec as you like which does become very expensive but you get what you want. Also This van is winterised as standard with all the tanks unslung, giving much more storage space which is at a premium in such a small van. Take a look and may do a review, happy hunting for your new van 👍

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this- we remember the Ayres Rock from its original model, but it was really quite expensive in its modern format. We did see one at the show, but it was way out of our price range. If the insulation and winterisation comes as standard, we may have to look at it again, as we would not order any of the bells and whistles as we just want a simplistic van for our simplistic needs. Thanks for the tip🙏 Have a good one👍

[@jamesrussell5490]

Great video, lots to think about,i was talking to a couple at a cl who had bought a adria van and had nothing but bother with it . Vanolgy and others who build to your spec is also an option. Good luck you probably think you have plenty of time but i have seen so many vlogs with people having their orders cancelled or cancelling them their selves due to delays with delivery dates etc.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this James- really useful and much appreciated. We have not heard of Vanolgy so will check them out👍 We are hoping that things are starting to settle down on the production front. All the dealers and manufactures reps we spoke to said that things we pretty much back to pre-Covid times....but unfortunately not to pre-Covid prices😂 Have a good one👍

[@markpursglovephotography]

Hi Richard and Jackie. We are just in the process of up sizing from our Vauxhall Vivaro and we have put a deposit on a Laika kosmo 5.4. The price was right for us.😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Ooh that is another van we have not seen - we will have a look 🚐 how exciting - when will you be able to pick the van up?

[@markpursglovephotography]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust In the next couple of weeks. We're very excited. 😁

[@knowlearning3914]

Morning to you both. My wife and I appreciate the effort you put into these videos. We’re a couple of years away from earlyish retirement and you’re an inspiration! Ona practical note, have you had your Propex heater serviced? If so, by whom? Thanks, Jon

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you ☺️ We had not had the heater serviced which is probably not a good thing but the van is actually in for an overhaul of the gas system while we are away and a habitation check so hopefully they will look at it for us - we will mention it when we email them. Thanks for the reminder 🚐

[@jonathanmchugh5978]

Great reviews as always. So much choice out there. I’m hoping to buy a transit and get it converted. Budget of 25-30K. Good luck with finding what you want. Jonathan.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Jonathan- good luck with your build. We only wish we had the skills to do that for ourselves...but we definitely don't😂 Have a good one👍

[@carolinehunt6003]

Have you seen the Carado CV540 Pro campervan which has a fixed bed and bathroom? Dealership near Glossop as it might be worth considering. We upgraded on the spur of the moment last November from Pearl our T6 to Vinny our Hobby Vantana which is 5.99m (nothing smaller as I checked!) but suits us perfectly for that extra comfort, storage and the fixed bed!! We look forward to continuing to watch your vlogs and following your travels 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Caroline- it's a really useful tip. We have seen some Carado vans at a dealership in Stafford, just off the M6. We will have to look at them again online to jog our memories. It's reassuring to know that you have found many benefits from a small up-size. We much prefer speaking to people who have actually done it rather than just sales people. Thanks again👍

[@carolinehunt6003]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust Thank you both for your reply. It's a minefield out there and after we had made the decision to upgrade (however, bittersweet it was at the time) we headed to Lowdhams and Don Amott dealerships. Like you we had a clear(ish) idea of what we wanted internally and 5.99m max so it would still be easy to manoeuvre. We looked at Sunlight, Weisberg, and Auto trail to name but a few but settled on the Hobby at Chesterfield as the workmanship was far superior to the others, in our minds anyway, and we haven't been disappointed! Just out of interest we bought Vinny a 73 plate this time last year and all 3 dealerships had reduced their remaining vans considerably (as well as throwing extras in) as they were making room for their 25 stock so you never know..... Happy van hunting!🚐

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

👍

[@adammawdesley7913]

Great way of reviewing, just covering enough detail against what your needs are. We are still getting used to our VW Cali and its quirks so always interesting to see what your ‘wants’ list is. Question is…did you buy any accessories there ?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Adam- one of the best things of vanlife is really getting to know you van and how they work for you. It is an ongoing process that never really stops😂 We resisted any accessories, as we are pretty content with what we have got. Ironically we were looking for a silicone collapsible colander to replace our one that has finally broken after 7 years. Not one collander to be seen😂 Thanks for the comment🙏 Have a good one👍

[@colinnewmarch1106]

We have a Consort , great build quality ,plenty of choice

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Colin, we have heard from a number of subscribers that they now have a fixed bed model, so we are going to check them out. They are only down the road in Leeds so we are looking forward to it. Everyone says their build quality and attention to detail is first class. Thanks for the comment👍

[@travelcampervansandmore]

Two gas bottles will always mean gas heating. Much better to chose a van with diesel heating. Try to check the VanTourer 540D if you can as it has a massive garage. It is built by Knaus.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this...a number of people have recommended the diesel route. We hadn't even clicked that was why there was extra gas locker space. It seems so simple now that we know! Thanks for the insight👍

[@alanbenham4139]

Good luck. It's a minefield out there! :)

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Oh yes...it really is! Cheers Alan👍

[@Bobtowncreative]

Excellent video, really made me think about converting my transporter or simply go straight for one of these options. Which awning do you currently have please? Happy travels.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Bob- glad it was of some use. We only have a fly screen awning from FunkyLeisure- but we really love it and it serves our needs really well. Have a good one, and good luck with whatever you may choose.👍

[@Bobtowncreative]

Cheers, hopefully catch you at some point in the Dales. We’ve a static at Goodenbergh nr Bentham. Keep the excellent vids coming 😀

[@louisesymonds9963]

Very interesting. I think that’s the maximum sized van I could cope with if I ever decide to upgrade. I wonder how the extra width would feel compared to the transporter? Very best of luck in your search and you’ve got plenty of time. I guess you’d trade Nelson in against the new one. I hope you’re thoroughly enjoying your holiday in Thailand. X

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Louise, the prospect of sleeping across the van is really quite exciting- although at 6ft it may be a bit of a squeeze if I want to stretch out😂 I wasn't quite ready to test out a bed at the show, but I am assuming they will be fine😬 We are having a blast so far in Thailand- 🤞that it continues. Thanks for the comment👍

[@jeffurwin-wb9yr]

Hi nice and very interesting reviews was just wondering if you had considered the Panama P57 ?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Not seen that one Jeff- what are your thoughts on it? Thanks for the comment👍

[@seanfallon4580]

Just wondering if the westfalia Amundsen 540D van was at the show ? , i think its a lovely van ans its a bit cheaper, by how much i dont know Anyway thank you for the very informative and interesting video of the 540 range

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Sean- one of our other subscribers has tipped us off that it went out of production, hence why it wasn't at the show. We are however keen to see a pre-owned one if we can find one in a dealership as we really liked the westfalia quality. Thanks for the comment👍

[@babcockandbobbins]

Have you considered holding off until a viable electric option becomes available? I think if there was one with about 300 Mile range it might work. I’m about 4 years away from getting this kind of van and I’m hoping there will be more electric options at that point.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

To be really honest...not really. The way we travel and the places we go to we would really struggle in an EV and we feel that it would detract from the experiences we are trying to. Thanks for the comment, and good luck with your own van hunt project👍

[@noelhughes1956]

Really good vlog - thank you! Have you seen the Swift Trekker S?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thank you - all the swift vans at the show were 6m - they said they do not do a shorter on - they looked nice though 🚐

[@noelhughes1956]

@@earlyretirementwanderlustthey do a 5.4m Swift Trekker called the “S” I’d love to have your view on it as I have the same requirements as you. It comes well equipped (solar panel, electric step, fitted window blinds, but the upholstery I find very poorly made. Again, if you see one, would love your opinion.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

👍

[@scotchegg6422]

Have you thought about a custom built van, you can then choose your design to meet your requirements. Probably looking at £25-30k for the conversion - obviously need to factor in the cost of the base van too.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this- as you know, Nelson was a custom van and we are so pleased he fit our needs exactly. We just figured that a production van should be able to meet our long term needs....but it's never quite that simple is it? There are so many really good converters out there ATM, the prices seem to be really quite high. If we cannot find what we want, we may well have to look at the custom conversion option, but not just yet. Have a good one👍

[@travelcampervansandmore]

The Dreamer D43 Up has the largest table of any 5.41m vans but be aware this means the fixed bed is narrower than the competition.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this- yes we are aware of its limitations, but there will always be compromises in a mass produced van. We could live with this one. Thanks for the comment👍

[@merrybrown6407]

Morning both v interesting TY

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

[@janicebell605]

I’m in the same position as you, looking for the same length van. There are more coming onto the market now than when I first started looking. I’m disappointed in the build quality though compared to the VW Birchover pop top I have. I looked at a new Autosleeper Symbol at Marquis, which is just short of £80,000 and thought the build quality was poor especially for the money. A microwave, tv and wine glasses in a cupboard do not make up for it! I just want basic features like you do and nothing much to go wrong🤔

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Love this perspective Janice- you are spot on about the wine glasses and microwave. We have found that all the vans we looked at seemed at face value to have a good finish and quality of build, however you never know until a van gets a good shake down. Another person mentioned in the comments researching potential vans via their FB Owners groups- this is where common problems come to light with particular vans. I know we are going to add this as an additional layer to our research. Thanks for the comment. Have a good one👍

[@TonyG579PoppyG579]

We might be in your position in a year or so, too. Currently have a T5 LWB. The ‘walk-through’ loo/shower is, I think, a brilliant idea. Why have that space that is used just once/twice a day (or not at all if your on a site) unusable for 95% of the time? It so opens up the space. Would you consider a pre-loved 5.4m van rather than new?

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

We would definitely consider a pre loved van and will be keeping an eye out when the time is right if it can save us some money 😊 to be fair my issue with the shower in the middle of the van was the raised slower tray with a duckboard in - I would be constantly tripping up on it 😂

[@TonyG579PoppyG579]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust ahhh, I get your point, thx for the clarification. A duckboard that clipped into position, and a clipping arrangement that didn’t lacerate your feet when you’re in the shower, would deffo be a product improvement.

[@fionaridley5011]

You've put that together really well. We went last Saturday, our first time ever. The 5.4m vans impressed me the most. We had never been to the show, nor hired/slept in a van before we designed and converted our 6.9m with H3 roof minibus in 2021 with only the internet to guide us. Thankfully we came away from the show still very happy with our van. Once it's over 5.4m and 2m high it's more on ferries, harder to park anyway so may as well have the space/comforts. Ours is the standard transit width though, the wide box motorhomes are far harder to drive I should imagine, even if 6m or under in length. We park and use bikes and/or walk, not daily driving when away. We shop on a "moving" day or just use the bikes. We absolutely wanted a fixed lengthways bed as OH is too tall at 6ft4 for across sleeping (he needed to be able to stand up if using for multi week trips as planned, and we did not want a pop top. We measured to the millimetre so we could both sit up in bed to read/drink tea/not feel claustrophobic and fit 4 bikes under, his bikes are huge too! We had to knock a wall down and create a parking space down the side of our house. I had no idea until the night before delivery that OH wasn't certain he could get it in. It's incredible watching him park it. I'd not have managed it in a month of Sundays, but then I have an eye condition that meant I was lucky to drive for 30 years but now (since my early 50s) I'm no longer allowed to as I'm just under the sight distance, spatial judging is really hard so if I was still driving we'd never have got the van we did. I was fine in our people carrier. I'm lucky to have the use of a van even if it's so frustrating not to be able to use it independently nor help out with long distance driving as I always used to. The lure of regular parking spaces, cheap on ferries and being much easier on tiny lanes is huge. Especially as knocking down nice Dales dry stone walls to park your van at home is (quite rightly) a none starter. Ours was just a new build brick wall.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Fiona- your experiences are really reassuring. We are glad that you liked your first experience of the show- it's a bit like visiting a sweet shop isn't it! The good thing is, even though there are so many options out there, it is lovely to be grateful for what we already have🙏 You have reassured us that we really couldn't deal with a larger van. Parking would be a huge issue for us as we are both not the best parkers. You should have seen me trying to park an American RV in the states. They have massive parking bays and I still had to park miles away from anyone else in the parking lot😂 Knocking down a wall was a brave move- we don't have that option at our place. Have a good one, and thanks again👍

[@carolfranklyn-wi8lp]

I am not a van owner so can not comment with 100% certainty but checkout those bathroom doors for vibration and noisy rattling when driving along. Have heard they can be a real pain in the a…

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

We have heard the same thing, as well as being difficult to fully dry and then being the source of damp after each shower. Thanks for the tip🙏 Have a good one👍

[@FredFox-m9v]

I looked at the dreamer range and approached Oakwell motor homes, with a view to part ex our quite new van that had been professionally converted post original manufacture. They weren't interested in offering us a part ex on our van, probably because it was a post manufacture conversion. You, like us, would have to sell your own van privately, before you could proceed with buying a new van probably.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this - we had already realised that we will not be able to part exchange Nelson which does make it a little trickier but we are in no rush to swap the van just yet so have plenty of time 😊 which dreamer van we’re you looking at - they are still probably our favourite 🚐

[@FredFox-m9v]

Yes it was the 2023 campervan dreamer xl. Still have my original van, never persued it. We bought a 7.5 metre 4 berth fixed island bed caravan instead, to go with our campervan. It has proved ideal for us.

[@pipmcscot7078]

Have a look at Urban Monkey Adventures and their new van, don't believe you mentioned this one, has a pop top based on Fiat chasis although maybe a 6 m

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this Pip- a great tip off. We will check them out as we hadn't previously thought of an auto trail van- will have to do some research if they do a 5.4m van. Thanks again. Have a good one👍

[@JmeGarg]

@earlyretirementsunderlust have you thought about buying a base vehicle and taking it to a converter together exactly what you need? I think this is the way we will go.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

That is what we did with our VW which worked out pretty well but we are quite tempted this time with some of the completed vans around as we have had to invest in tweeks on the electrics and gas system after the conversion - either way it is a huge investment that we want to get right - Are you looking at a transporter size or bigger?

[@JmeGarg]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust thanks. We are looking at Crafter / Boxer size without a pop top - permanent bed in the back, inside (pull out toilet) and external shower. We’ve previously had a T5. Undecided whether to wait 5 years till we retire or sooner Currently getting ideas.

[@alexwalksinnature]

To have the shower in the „kitchen“ is the new trend and lots of the new vans (on the continent) have that. I am not sure if I think it’s clever or if I hate it. I have to see it in real.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

To be fair our biggest issue is that it is a trip hard - I am clumsy at the best of time and maybe slightly worried about water and damp? However you do get more space to shower so I can see the logic 🚐

[@alexwalksinnature]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust yes, these are also my biggest fears… I also read that campers had problems with the water in the shower when they did not stand exact levelled. But that was maybe before the shower got two drains. And I also wonder if there are gonna be problems if dirt collects where the shower door is sliding. I want to buy a 6m van but with two beds, so the rest of the van is the same as the 5,40.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

@alexwalksinnature having not had a shower for years we are hoping not to use it that often anyway - it is the toilet we want and the ‘cupboard’ space we can hang things In as a drying room 😊

[@cmoreton2911]

​@@alexwalksinnatureI've got the 6.4m version and the shower works really well. It's a very quick job to dry off the tambours and shower tray with a microfiber cloth, and no idsue with draining with double drain. At least there is room in there to be able to bend over and pick stuff up off the floor which is a challenge in smaller spaces. I also use the shower tray as my washing machine when soaking handwashing in a lidded box whilst driving - potential spillages dont matter ;-)

[@Corcioch]

I was also surprised by how many 5.4m vans were at the show. Rapido is another van builder to look at, they make very nice vans on the Ducato platform. I didn't like that Exhibition at all.....I thought it was just money money money!!! and I wouldn't bother going again.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this - we saw so many vans I can’t even remember if we came across a rapido one - we will have a look online. I know what you mean about the costs - we are seriously thinking about a low mileage used van now we know what we are looking for! It was handy to get to see the wide choice out there 🚐

[@mags9981]

Have you thought about hiring one, and trying to get one around your home. Just to try one out. 😊

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

We have thought about that - the other tiny issue is we are a mid terrace house that is only 5m wide on a private but shared drive 😬 the builders just about got their vans round when we renovated but had to back out very carefully each time

[@dustylorft1728]

Also Vantourer 540

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Dusty- we will look it up👍

[@leesmith9299]

i think it would make sense to do away with bathroom sinks. the kitchen sink does me fine for teeth cleaning. give it a clean before i shave once a week.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Spot on there Lee- less is more when it comes to van design 👍Thanks for the comment🙏

[@BrettRobertPierce]

We rented both a 540 and a 600 before we made our decision, and we are really happy we did. You learn about the pros and cons in a much more realistic way. We are early retired teachers ourselves who climb, ski, etc. We are very happy to have chosen a van with a rear bed that raises completely and still allows you to sleep at nearly any height, a heating system that runs off the diesel of van (great for skiing), and a poptop, which is so much cooler in the summer. We chose the Knaus 600 mq, and bought directly from Germany and were able to get a huge discount by buying at the end of the season.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this - really interesting to know it is potentially cheaper to order later in the year as we are in no rush time wise. We have seen the vans with raised beds which do look good - not seen any on a 5.40 though. Being well winterised is a priority as we want to do a good chunk of skiing every year. We are going to look at renting a 5.40 van before we make our final decision - if we can find one 😂

[@janetbowen7854]

@@earlyretirementwanderlust try Motorhome Matt (does great pod casts) he has a motorhome sales company and also a range of hire campers of varying lengths, based in Weston Super Mare, Somerset 😄🚐

[@BrettRobertPierce]

Road surfer rents a 540 with a pop top, and maybe with the bed that raises too, if I remember correctly.

[@adrianpinsent3581]

Have you considered a Demountable camper? Sometimes called a truck camper.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks Adrian, TBH not really. We saw loads when we were RVing in the US as they are really popular over there. The living space looks quite small, but if we had a bottomless budget, we would probably have one as an off road play thing as I have always fancied abit of overlanding👍

[@Lilrom2003]

Those dinette chairs in each one are so uncomfortable while taking up so much space . Nowhere to sit relaxed like on a sofa ( or bench seat in VW van) with pop top in summer you might sleep upstairs and leave a rear bed conversion in sofa set up….

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Thanks for this- we appreciate your thought and it is something that we have seriously considered. Every potential purchase has a compromise and it has to fit for us. We value the prospect of not having to make up a bed each night and a large garage space, in the knowledge that we will compromise lounge space. We think that for most of the time, we will have the table removed to help with the feeling of space, and the two captains seats all seem to be very comfy. Thanks for your comment. Have a good one.👍

[@gnarlybadger690]

Why not build your own it would be exactly what you want 🤷🏻

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Very true...but we have no skills. We just about survived the house renovation...and that was working alongside a team of experts😂 On a serious note, we were really hopeful that there is a model out there that meets our needs. If we cannot find one at our price point, we are not adverse to contracting out a conversion (we did it with Nelson), but finding a quality converter, at the right price with availability is a challenge these days.

[@gnarlybadger690]

@earlyretirementwanderlust it can seem a daunting task to undertake and it's understandable how you feel. Contracting out is another cheaper option, but again I understand finding the right converter can be frustrating and challenging in itself. Good luck. I hope you find what you want 👍🏻

[@BagEndGarden]

Lovely review, especially as I am about to collect a 5.4m Ducato-based van (in exchange for a VW T6.1 😀). On the fridges with two-way doors: if you're anything like me then the area next to the door opening becomes a really useful dumping ground at night for rubbish, shoes, etc. If your fridge door opens into that space you cannot put anything else there.

[@earlyretirementwanderlust]

Very true - we hadn’t thought of that! The dreamer van as far as I remember had a tall thin fridge opposite the toilet in the galley? Which van did you choose?