You may have just started camping, you may be ready for your next big adventure, and you need a new van, or you simply want to replace an older one. Whatever your circumstances are, selecting the appropriate vehicle for your needs is critical.
For now and in the future, you'll need the right van with the necessary equipment. So, how do you come to a decision? Take a look at this article to assist you with your decision-making.
Campervans and day vans are easily the two most recognised types of vans out there, but the similarities may cause you too much difficulty telling them apart. So let’s take a look at the features that differentiate the two vehicle classes apart.
But first, we need to know what they are.
What is A Day Van?
A leisure or day van is a vehicle with some of the features of a campervan or motorhome but is not intended for extended camping vacations. A small fridge, rudimentary cooking facilities, and a bench or bed are all common features of a day van.
A day van, in addition to being able to transport all of your belongings comfortably, also allows you to prepare and enjoy meals, as well as camp out for the night if desired. Its capacity to feed your family while on a day trip or beach adventure can also be a cost-effective alternative to purchasing drinks, snacks, and meals out.
Day vans with a travel kettle and bench to professionally adapted cars with a variety of appliances and gadgetry are all examples of day vans. Modern vans are much easier to drive and handle, like automobiles, making them a popular daily driver.
Some people like a lofty seating posture with an excellent view of the road.
What is A Camper Van?
A camper van is a self-contained mobile home that is typically smaller than a motorhome. In most cases, there is no distinction between the cab and the living quarters. Cooking, washing, and sleeping amenities are frequently included in camper vans.
If you want to pick up and go, this is the best option for you! A camper van allows you to go wherever your heart wishes. Simply drive to an appropriate location, park, and that's all there is to it!
You're ready to take advantage of the world's liberties. You can add an awning to prolong the benefits, and you've got yourself a mobile home!
What is the Main Difference Between a Campervan and a Day Van
For campers who wish to tour the globe from the comfort of their cars, camper vans have proven to be an ideal alternative. There's no need to lug a trailer around and be concerned about not having everything you need.
Day vans, on the other hand, are used for day travels, hence the name. Day vans are fantastic for spending the night at your favourite fishing site when you're in a hurry, but they're not ideal for staying for an extended period of time.
You won't have as many conveniences, but there will be plenty of capacity to transport whatever equipment you'll need for the day.
A day van has enough space inside to hold all of your fishing gear if you're going to the lake for the day. You'll be able to bring a tackle box, numerous fishing poles, an ice chest for meals, and other items with you. It's a good option for individuals who like to go off-roading.
Can You Sleep in Either
For van lifers, sleeping in a van is usually not an issue. There will always be certain spots that are unsafe, but for the most part, you should not be concerned.
You can rest securely if your vehicle has good door locks. (check out our campervan security article
You can also sleep in your car, check out our article.
Pros and Cons of Camper Vans
Pros
- Toilets, sinks, refrigerators, and other amenities are frequently included in camper vans, making life much easier. You can camp in a wider range of locations because you don't have to worry about finding a bathroom.
- Almost all campervans allow you to stand up straight. Many of them stand well over 6 feet tall in the middle, making it easier to manoeuver around when preparing meals or getting ready for bed.
- A bed-bench combination is common in camper vans, allowing you to convert one to the other as needed. This combination is both space-saving and extremely comfy.
Cons
- Camper vans are heavier than day vans, which may provide a challenge if you aren't used to driving such vehicles.
- It's usually convenient to have a restroom and a sink, but dealing with sewage can be unpleasant and inconvenient.
Pros And Cons of Day Vans
Pros
The construction costs for day vans are pretty low, considering they are used for shorter distances and shorter touring times. They don’t sport a lot of furniture and amenities.
Day vans don’t utilise as many living amenities as camper vans and thus are easier to manage.
If you've never driven a huge vehicle before, the lightness of a day van will make you feel a lot more at ease.
Cons
The most obvious disadvantage of owning a day van is that it lacks many comforts found in a camper van. You can't camp if you don't have a toilet, a fridge, or a sink.
Day vans have a lower resale value than camper vans. People frequently purchase old camper vans, although day vans are less common.
The majority of day vans will not be allowed in RV parks that allow camper vans. This is yet another campsite stumbling block.
FAQs
How Do Camper Van Toilets Work?
They appear like regular toilets and function like them, but your waste is held in a "cassette." When it's full, simply remove it and dispose of it in a regular public restroom.
Some versions require flushing from your RV's water tank, while others have their own tiny tanks.
How to Prepare Meals for Yourself in a Day Van?
Prepare ahead of time to avoid an empty stomach or three consecutive dinners of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Calculate how many meals you'll require and what you'll want to eat.
Remember to plan ahead of time for food storage, which will most likely be a minifridge or cooler, and prepare recipes that are simple to prepare over an open fire, such as chilli, roasted veggie skewers, or loaded baked potatoes.
The Takeaway
Both a camper van and a day van have various advantages.
If you need a mobile workstation or just a van to spend the day fishing or dirt riding, day vans are ideal. Camper vans are perfect for camping and long road trips.
