Converting a Vehicle in to a Motorhome or Campervan

Are you preparing for life on the road?

Having your own motorhome means that you'll enjoy the most incredible freedom, for holidays and short breaks or as your full-time way of life. However, you may not want to buy a motorhome from an existing supplier. In fact, you could be amongst a growing number of people converting vans into custom motorhomes.

Converting a van means that you can build the motorhome that's right for you. It'll have all the right facilities, features and functions. And, you can decorate it in your choice of style - but it's also important to consider how you'll decorate the outside as well as the inside.

Is external motorhome decoration really important?

If you're planning a motorhome conversion and want to change the body type, then you'll need to think carefully about the outside of your vehicle.

According to UK law, your vehicle must be easily identified when it's out on the road. It must look like a motorhome, not a commercial van.

To change your vehicle's body type to 'motor caravan' on official DVLA records, the following list is a guide to what you will need to consider for your vehicle:

* at least two side windows, not including the windows on the driver and passenger doors
* a separate door to access the living accommodation
* motor caravan-style graphics on both sides
* awning bar on both sides
* a high top roof.

DVLA will need photographic evidence of the completed conversion. Motor caravans may benefit from lower insurance and could be accepted at many more campsites.

How can you make your van look more like a motorhome?

Adding vehicle graphics to both sides of your van conversion is a great way to satisfy one of the DVLA requirements. Motorhome graphics can include word and phrases, pictures of mountains, or a full vehicle wrap, for example. This is a chance not just to satisfy the law, but also to add your own personal stamp to the outside of your vehicle.

From popular phrases like ‘Home is Where You Park It' to colourful motorhome graphics that show your love of travelling, there are many ways to convert your van into a registered motorhome. And, there are many benefits to doing so!