Camper Van (e.g. VW California)

There is obviously an added cost from the third-party camper manufacturer for taking the van/truck and converting it into a camper. I would see a 20-30% markup over the van/truck price as completely fair for a camper-van. Maybe even a 50-100% markup in the case of a real luxury RV like a top-tier Hymer or Winebago.

The problem is that for older, used campers in particular, the markup is often much higher than that. Van’s that should be in the junkyard based on their mileage and age are still being sold for 5-figure sums simply because they have a camper build. It’s a very emotionally-driven market, and therefore doesn’t make much sense.

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I have owned a DIY Fiat Scudo camper, and then a DIY T5 camper. They were light conversions, meaning no pop-up roof and no special amenities, just a large comfy bed and a lot of space to store leisure gear. Great memories with these two!
If I were to buy one again, I would probably look at an electric one, the Kia PV5 is looking particularly appealing compared to the overexpensive ID.Buzz. And probably one with a pop-up roof, not being able to stand-up is kind of annoying, especially when it’s pouring outside.