Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo

New Volkswagen California

Volkswagen Grand California

Renault Trafic Paradise campervan

Toyota Proace Matino Campervan

Volkswagen Caddy California

the-best-campervans-in-2025-the-best-models-for-outdoor-travels

As of 2022, it was estimated that there were around 11.6 million campervans registered across the UK – a figure that's only likely to have grown in the following years. And whether that's due to the increasing number of models available, the high cost of international travel, or other factors, it's clear that more buyers are finding enjoyment in campervan holidays here in&nbsp;the UK.

Plenty of car makers including Ford, Mercedes, Renault, Toyota and Vauxhall offer their own campervans, usually based on their commercial vehicle offerings. However, there are also third-party converters who take regular panel vans and turn them into luxurious campervans, too.

You might imagine that finding the best campervans in the UK would be a picnic, but we put the same thorough testing into this as we do when testing regular cars and vans. That means our experienced team of road testers have spent hundreds of hours at the wheel of each campervan, seeing what each model is like to drive both on public roads, and back-to-back against key rivals at our private test track.

Beyond merely driving each campervan, we've also tested how comfortable they are to sleep in, what further amenities they offer, and how much they cost to buy and run.

In this story, we've named the best campervans we've ever tested in order of our preference. Remember that you can find out more about each model by reading our in-depth reviews.

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Best campervans 2025 - the best models for outdoor travels

Ford builds some of the most popular cars in the UK, including the Fiesta and Focus hatchbacks.

This success is partly down to longevity and the fact that there’s a Ford dealer around every corner. However, it’s also because Fords tend to offer good value and be among the best cars in their respective classes to drive.

The company’s huge range also helps; it offers everything from the small – but surprisingly practical – Ka+ to the large and lavishly equipped Edge SUV.

Meanwhile, other highlights of the range include the S-Max and Galaxy people carriers, the Mondeo executive car and the Ranger pick-up.

FORD

Transit Nugget

As you’ll no doubt have been able to discern from its position in this list, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/transit-nugget/mpv/review/n22681">Ford Transit Custom Nugget</a>&nbsp;isn’t exactly our favourite camper – but that doesn’t mean it isn’t worth a look. For one thing, it’s one of only a few fully featured campers that can boast five seats and four berths – and for another, the conversion is carried out by renowned German camper specialist Westfalia, plus you get a full Ford manufacturer warranty.

You also get a gutsy diesel engine, and while the Nugget isn’t cheap to buy, it’s possible to find with some very tempting discounts, which means it probably won’t set you back quite as much as you might at first think.

There’s lots to like here, in other words. But you do have to remember that you only get a toilet and sink – not a full bathroom – and then only on the long-wheelbase version. What’s more, the cheap-feeling plastics inside, the sluggish automatic gearbox and a fidgety ride make it a van you won’t want to spend a long time driving.

“I wasn't expecting Playstation levels of graphics from the Transit Nugget's infotainment system, but while it doesn't have the best looks, it is at least quick to respond to my inputs and loaded with features.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/stuart-milne/n25965">Stuart Milne, Digital Editor</a>

6: Ford Transit Custom Nugget

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Keen discounts from Ford</li>
	<li>Punchy EcoBlue 185 engine</li>
	<li>One of the few fully equipped five-seat campers</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Slow-witted automatic gearbox</li>
	<li>Mercedes Marco Polo has a classier interior</li>
	<li>Ride and handling</li>
</ul>

Hatchbacks, SUVs, hybrids, electric cars: Renault makes them all, in a variety of shapes and sizes, meaning&nbsp;it has a line-up designed to tempt pretty much everyone.

From the roadside, the standout feature of all its cars is design, with them instantly recognisable as members of the Renault family, without being so similar that they fall&nbsp;into the Russian doll trap. However, in terms of ability they're a mixed bag,&nbsp;ranging&nbsp;from very good to no better than average.

Models that fall into the former camp include the Clio small hatchback and Megane E-Tech electric car, while the smaller Zoe electric car is also impressive in most respects; it's just a pity Renault omits key safety kit.

On the other hand, the Captur, Arkana and Austral SUVs are all outclassed by several rivals.

Renault has some exciting new models planned, including a new Scenic (this time it will be an electric SUV instead of a conventionally powered MPV) and two cars that reimagine classic Renaults: the 4 and 5.

RENAULT

Trafic

The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/trafic/van/review/n25733">Renault Trafic Paradise</a>&nbsp;is arguably not quite as well known as some of its rival campers, but it’s worth looking out, because it’s a great all-rounder. Inside, the living accommodation, with its well equipped rear kitchen and comfortable seating area, has clearly been intelligently thought out, and it’s put together well, so the Trafic Paradise feels pretty high-quality.&nbsp;

It’s roomy, too – in fact, converter Sussex Campervans has done an admirable job of finding plenty of space in a frame that’s relatively small by the standards of most motorhomes. That’s thanks in part to the pop-top, which gives it a huge advantage over most of its rivals, and with the loft bed in place, it allows the Trafic Paradise to become a four-berth van – a rarity among campers of this size.

Just bear in mind that the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/ford/transit-nugget/mpv/review/n22681">Ford Transit Nugget</a>&nbsp;handles with more finesse, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/v-class/estate/review/n23174">Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo</a>&nbsp;offers a more serene driving experience. There's also a new&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/renault/trafic/van/review/n18803">Renault Trafic</a>&nbsp;van coming soon, so expect the Trafic Paradise to be updated too.

“You can have the Renault Trafic Paradise with a manual or electrically operated pop-top roof, allowing you to sleep up to four people. I'd go for the latter, because it's quick and easy.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/claire-evans/n1100">Claire Evans, Consumer Editor</a>

5: Renault Trafic Paradise

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>High-quality, well thought out interior</li>
	<li>Lots of space in a small package</li>
	<li>Scope for personalisation</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Trafic is only average to drive</li>
	<li>Rear-heavy nature makes wheelspins too easy</li>
	<li>Expensive</li>
</ul>

The VW Group famously spends more money on research and development than any rival – and as a result, perhaps it should be no surprise that our testers rate its cars so consistently highly.

The fact that many of those cars use the same underpinnings also helps, because it means that if they get it right once, they have the foundations to keep on getting it right.

However, the Volkswagen brand faces plenty of tough competition, often from within, because the rapidly rising Seat and Skoda brands that are also part of the group have access to the same technology.

VOLKSWAGEN

CADDY CALIFORNIA

Not only has&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/california/mpv/review/n19868">Volkswagen’s California</a>&nbsp;spawned a bigger version in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/grand-california/mpv/review/n20215">Grand California</a>&nbsp;– there’s now a smaller version too. This&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy-california/mpv/review/n23182">Caddy California</a>&nbsp;packs the California’s trademark mix of quality and functionality into an even more compact frame – in this case, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/caddy/van/review/n18482">Volkswagen Caddy Cargo</a>&nbsp;van. This makes the Caddy California&nbsp;a micro-camper – an ideal companion for the occasional night away from home.&nbsp;

You get two berths that take up the entirety of the interior, but fold away to leave the rear seats intact – and in the boot, there’s a pull-out kitchen. If you need more space, you can add an additional tent that extends out from the boot area, giving you a handy living space.

There's only one petrol engine on offer in the Caddy California, along with two diesels, and the most powerful 122bhp version is pleasantly punchy.

"Figuring out how to set up the Caddy California's bed took me some time, but it's comfortable and spacious enough for a couple of nights away from home.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/darren-moss/n1005">Darren Moss, Deputy Editor</a>

4: Volkswagen Caddy California

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Strong diesel engines</li>
	<li>Well thought out interior</li>
	<li>Competitive starting price</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Not as much space on offer as larger campers</li>
	<li>You’ll want to add quite a few options</li>
	<li>Dashboard feels a little utilitarian</li>
</ul>

CALIFORNIA

While the old Volkswagen California was based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/transporter/van/review/n18205">Volkswagen Transporter</a>&nbsp;van, the latest model instead uses the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/volkswagen/multivan/mpv/review/n24442">Volkswagen Multivan</a>&nbsp;as its starting point. That means that it benefits from a wider range of engine options, so can be had with petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid power. The latter combines a 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor, and offers up to 56 miles of electric-only driving according to official figures.

For most buyers, however, the 201bhp 2.0-litre petrol will be a better bet, and it should be just as smooth as the same engine already is in the Multivan.

While it can't match the larger Grand California in offering a separate bathroom, the California still offers plenty of luxuries, with entry-level versions getting a pop-top roof, single-ring gas cooker and more. Coast models, meanwhile, get a fold-out bed and three-zone climate control, plus a larger kitchen.

“I'd have a look at Coast or Ocean versions of the California, because unlike the entry-level models, these get a full kitchenette with a single gas hob, fridge and sink.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/lawrence-cheung/n23691">Lawrence Cheung, New Cars Editor</a>

3: Volkswagen California

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Well thought out interior</li>
	<li>Lots of standard equipment</li>
	<li>Strong diesel engine</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Fiddly touch-sensitive controls</li>
	<li>Camper control screen isn’t very responsive</li>
	<li>Gearbox can be slow</li>
</ul>

Temporary taxonomy until official CAP taxonomy is linked to review.

Grand California

If you're the kind of buyer who would usually spring for a hotel over a campervan, there's a very good reason to choose the Volkswagen Grand California – it's the only campervan here to be available with a wet room and toilet, meaning you can truly be self-sufficient.

There are two versions of the Grand California to choose from, the big 600 and the behemoth 680, but both are powered by the same 174bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine. Even considering the latter's vast bulk, it offers decent pulling power – provided you like your journeys to be relaxed rather than agile.

While you might expect such a big and tall vehicle to feel imposing to drive, the Grand California makes life easy, with a progressive to the accelerator pedal, and light steering which makes it easy to manouvre.

The Grand California can't match up to the material quality of the Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo, but most surfaces feel premium enough, and we like the neat touches that transform this space into a usable and comfortable one – such as the dedicated touch panel for the hot water and central heating settings by the bathroom door.

“I liked the look of some of the Grand California's many add-ons, which include an air conditioning unit, a satellite dish and even a side awning. These are undoubtedly useful to have, but I also found that they exacerbated any wind noise.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/doug-revolta/n1031">Doug Revolta, Head of Video</a>

2: Volkswagen Grand California

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Torquey diesel engine</li>
	<li>Practical</li>
	<li>Slow depreciation</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Can’t disguise its bulk in corners</li>
	<li>Pricey</li>
	<li>Unappealing plastics up front</li>
</ul>

Estate

Mercedes’ line-up is vast – ranging from the A-Class family hatchback through to staple saloons such as the C-Class and E-Class, and onwards towards multiple SUVs, luxury saloons and even sports cars. Coupés and convertibles are thrown into the mix as well.

As one of the ‘big three’ German brands, Mercedes most often finds itself competing with Audi and BMW but more recently has found itself fending off Jaguar and Volvo, too.

Mercedes models are known for comfort. One example of this is the E-Class, because while the Audi A6 has a plusher interior and the BMW 5 Series handles better, the E-Class is probably the most comfortable for a long motorway journey.

MERCEDES-BENZ

V CLASS

You'll need a fair amount of money in the bank to be considering this campervan, which is based on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/mercedes-benz/vito/van/review/n18152">Mercedes Vito</a>&nbsp;van. But if you can afford to buy and one run, you'll be getting the best campervan in the business. 
 
Available solely with a 233bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine, the Marco Polo feels far more sprightly than its considerable size and weight would suggest, and has no trouble getting you and your family quickly up to motorway speeds. It's also surprisingly efficient – we managed 34.9mpg on a typical camping trip without resorting to economical driving techniques such as hypermiling.

To drive, the V-Class feels very similar to the Vito – that is to say that it has light steering, good visibility thanks to its high driving position, and a ride which does a good job of soaking up the lumps and bumps of battered British roads.

With a kitenette that includes a pair of gas burners, plus a spacious bed and lots of storage, life away in the Marco Polo is as easy as pie.

“With 2.6 tonnes to haul around, you might imagine that the Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo would feel hefty to steer. But in fact the opposite is true, I found it to be pleasantly light to steer on a camping trip to the Highlands. The caveat, though, is that my test car was fitted with adaptive air suspension.” –&nbsp;<a href="https://www.whatcar.com/authors/will-nightingale/n1020">Will Nightingale, Reviews Editor</a>

1: Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo

<h3>Strengths</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Driving dynamics are impressive</li>
	<li>Remote control roof makes setting up a breeze</li>
	<li>Tech-laden interior is a pleasure to use</li>
</ul>

<h3>Weaknesses</h3>

<ul>
	<li>Rotating the front seats is tricky</li>
	<li>Boot space is smaller than expected</li>
	<li>Access to the roof bed is awkward</li>
</ul>

The Best campervans in 2025 - the best models for outdoor travels

A staple of British holidaymakers, camper vans come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, but are usually based on existing commercial vehicles. Camper vans will have been modified to make them more comfortable for extended use, and often come with extra amenities including cooking facilities, a sleeping area and, in some cases, a toilet or shower.

Camper van

A campervan is a perennially popular way of enjoying a short break for a reasonable cost, but with more choice than ever in the market, which camper should be at the top of your shortlist?

The Best campervans in 2025 - the best models for outdoor travels

A campervan is a perennially popular way of enjoying a short break for a reasonable cost, but with more choice than ever in the market, which camper should be at the top of your shortlist?...

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