Nice to meet you at the show and glad you are on the mend health wise. We found the show underwhelming and reaffirmed that my 2016 Transporter is a keeper, yes it would be nice to have a DSG but not worth the extra 40k to change the van. Keep up the good work.
Thank you. Lovely to meet you also. The show was set to be a little underwhelming regarding the Transporter as it’s an outgoing model, hence there were a lot of Crafters/MAN. Hopefully the New model will be out for next year and it will be far more interesting.
The cooker in the Jerba Campervan you mentioned is not an induction cooker, it is a Wallas Hob which is a diesel cooker (not induction) and is also the heater in the van. You don’t then need to carry gas and it means a single fuel source.
@@StaycationLifestyle agree, it’s a fantastic piece of kit which we love. Gives you a lot of additional storage space when you don’t need to store gas.
@@StaycationLifestyle @oceanblue2023 we find the 2 single seat layout works really well and means you get the full use of the length of the van. It also means you can stand and cook at a normal height. It also means you can access everything in the van without having to step outside.
I've got an Automatic Ford Transit custom Devon Firefly hightop swb with 2 single beds and a toilet with a privacy door. Best layout I think, much better use of space, and easy to get to the loo with 2 single beds.
At 07:55 you mention something about regulations re: storage cupboards over the sink/hob. Could you elaborate as I am thinking of installing something similar on my T5
The hob must be fitted according to the manufacturers instructions. The instructions will give the clearances from units above and it’s this that can often be ignored (obviously not by these NCC approved conversion companies) 👍🏼
The colour of the Hillside camper that you don’t know is called Stein blue. Mine is 5 yrs old and I get compliments on the colour every time I go out .the best colour IMHO Nice video and info .Keep up the good work
Funny that after seeing all of the different layouts, I have not seen one with the same layout as mine! (With a 129cm RIB bed and microwave) Great video as always!!
I don't want the bodykit. If you don't know why then I suggest that you've never tried to pull up or pull away from a piece of rough verge. Similarly I wouldn't thank you for low profile wheels because they are less resistant to kerbing. Yes to lowered suspension, not only for improved ride but the possibility of sneaking under height restricting barriers. I liked the twin single bed option because you could get a bike in the passageway (I have to go to bed with mine if I want it inside)!
Many people don’t want them, but people have different uses for them. The car parks I go to and the beaches I visit are no good for the body kits if the suspension is to the floor. Yet some don’t have that problem and want them kitted out and low as they can. It’s all personal choice. It’s surprising we don’t see more of that layout, it certainly has its benefits
You saved the very best till last theres no doubt eco wagon plus,the craftsman ship and attention too details makes it top choice for me but i would spec it under 100k
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen would be proud of this YT Review, it's all about Fabrics, Colours, finish & Wheels. No new functional improvements to make the vans better in everyday use. (Bit like owning a Range Rover)
Its not a review of the vans, they are al NCC Approved, Whole Vehicle Type Approved vans, they all have the usual fittings. There is nothing new as the Transporter is end of lifecycle and there aren't any new Transporters yet. The point of the video was dispelling the "all Transporters are the same" showing that there are different layouts and styles available. New vans with new products and new tech will follow when the new model is released and these converters create their models and go through the very expensive process of crash testing them and obtaining the required certificates.
I have a very similar layout to the Jerba with single beds but mine slide together and make a double. It feels so roomy as there is plenty of elbow space either side of the bed. I have a portapotti in a slide out draw. I do not like a toilet on display.
Most beds in these vans are not wide enough for two normal people. Weight distribution is a problem, all the weight is on the offside which affects handling.
They sell extremely well and have done for many years. They may not be the ideal choice for permanent living, but they are comfortable enough for leisure. Weight distribution is not a problem. If there was an issue with these vehicles they wouldn’t beable to obtain whole vehicle type approval.
All.of the vans that have ungraded wheels still have the factory spare wheel underneath. I spoke to the chaps at hillside and asked if the swampers they build do they come with a full size spare and they said no .i couldn't find anyone fitting an adapted enlarged spare wheel carrier. Same again i couldn't find any tailgate spare wheel carriers.some needs to manufacture these at a sensible price as im desperately in need of one
interesting BUT no mention about campers for a single person. i have a campervan by Sussex campervan Campers need to be special for single travellers. i love my van cos there is so much space with a small bed. why dont manufacturers produce vans for singles ??
These vehicles are “Type approved” which costs tens of thousands of pounds in testing and development. The market for a single sleeper would be extremely limited and therefore not cost effective for these type approved manufacturers. A van conversion company, like you have mentioned would be the best way to achieve that layout. Converters who will make a bespoke product exactly to your requirements would be needed.
The show is ran by the NCC and the majority of conversions are approved having gone through the strict regulation and safety criteria. These approved vans are mostly VW’s. I included the Ford I saw (there will be more of these I think next year) There were no small Mercs, but there was a bigger one which is in my video next week 👍🏼
They aren’t for everyone, but they sell extremely well. Partly due to the versatility of them, they can be daily driven, whereas a similar priced motorhome with a bathroom is much bigger and can’t be
Hot and cold water system with a shower is what’s in my van, what does it matter if you pee in a porti potty or a fixed loo, still needs to be emptied.
you're missing the point . after a certain age just the concept of squatting in the corner of a little van crapping on a little Porta Potti is absurd and frankly laughable when you're handing over 100 k for the privilege . @@williamclark3572
I have the same William, absolutely superb eh. Hired motorhomes, caravans, campers and for us the camper was the best option. I park it at the house, can use it to campsites or nip to Tesco, so versatile and looks ace. Price doesn’t matter if it works for us.
Lowered suspension and extra lumps of tacky plastic don't make any sense. Speed bumps potholes rough ground and ferries are going to damage that shit. Plus they make the vehicle look like a tarts handbag. I used to have a jobl kampa which was brilliant with an adequate 5speed manual, great wee holiday wagon👍
Strangely though, you will find that many converters will add body kits and wheels because it’s the “eye candy” that people buy. There are many different types of buyer, different tastes, preferences. Some like the crazy colours and others prefer more neutral colours. I like the DSG and wouldn’t even consider a 5 speed manual 🤣 Everyone is different 👍🏼
@@StaycationLifestyle I do like a nice rare colour but the more basic the less to go wrong or fall off. Wouldn't touch an automatic with a bargepole as I like changing gears (makes the journey less boring) and they cost a fortune to service/repair compared to a manual box. I did like that Swift Ford Tourney a nice wee change from the obvious VW T6.
@@andrewstevenson6540 I like the Bay Leaf Green 🫣 That is a good point regarding the DSG, just personal preference. It is nice, will be interesting to see what the new model will look like
I think £53k for a brand new Campervan (not registered until bought) which has been built properly within regulation, including kitchen, poptop, rib bed etc is good in the current market. Can you point me in the direction of better value for money? (Considering these will have good residuals) I agree it’s a lot of money for a small van and for a little more you can buy a much bigger motorhome, but they are different vehicles.
Nice to meet you at the show and glad you are on the mend health wise. We found the show underwhelming and reaffirmed that my 2016 Transporter is a keeper, yes it would be nice to have a DSG but not worth the extra 40k to change the van. Keep up the good work.
Thank you. Lovely to meet you also.
The show was set to be a little underwhelming regarding the Transporter as it’s an outgoing model, hence there were a lot of Crafters/MAN.
Hopefully the New model will be out for next year and it will be far more interesting.
The cooker in the Jerba Campervan you mentioned is not an induction cooker, it is a Wallas Hob which is a diesel cooker (not induction) and is also the heater in the van. You don’t then need to carry gas and it means a single fuel source.
Yes that’s right. Didn’t have my head in far enough to tell. There were a few which were the Dometic gas hub and induction combined.
A friend had one and he loved it. Not sure why they aren’t more common.
@@StaycationLifestyle agree, it’s a fantastic piece of kit which we love. Gives you a lot of additional storage space when you don’t need to store gas.
@@Circa35mm Space being a precious commodity in a small van 😁
Liking the 2 single seats / beds set up enabling an aisle.
It is a good way of making a different space
@@StaycationLifestyle @oceanblue2023 we find the 2 single seat layout works really well and means you get the full use of the length of the van. It also means you can stand and cook at a normal height.
It also means you can access everything in the van without having to step outside.
I’m 6’ tall and the single beds are not long enough ( I tried one at the show) otherwise I would probably buy one.
OK if your a Superskinny Supermodel
If you are tall you face the passenger seat at 90 degrees then your feet go across the passenger seat instead of stopping at the back rest
I've got an Automatic Ford Transit custom Devon Firefly hightop swb with 2 single beds and a toilet with a privacy door.
Best layout I think, much better use of space, and easy to get to the loo with 2 single beds.
Great to see you back
Thank you 👍🏼
Best channel on You Tube… enough said 🎉🎉 just got too buy a California now…👊🏻
What a lovely thing to say, thank you 😊
At 07:55 you mention something about regulations re: storage cupboards over the sink/hob. Could you elaborate as I am thinking of installing something similar on my T5
The hob must be fitted according to the manufacturers instructions. The instructions will give the clearances from units above and it’s this that can often be ignored (obviously not by these NCC approved conversion companies) 👍🏼
@@StaycationLifestyle ah gotcha, thanks!!
Great work as usual 🎉 Don’t keep us waiting for the rest
Thank you. I won’t 😀
The colour of the Hillside camper that you don’t know is called Stein blue. Mine is 5 yrs old and I get compliments on the colour every time I go out .the best colour IMHO
Nice video and info .Keep up the good work
You don’t see many in the colour which is good. It is a nice colour 😃
Thank you
Funny that after seeing all of the different layouts, I have not seen one with the same layout as mine! (With a 129cm RIB bed and microwave)
Great video as always!!
Thank you. I like the slimline units and a 130 RIB. Another great layout.
Still people will say they are all the same 😁
When I get old and retire I will get a long wheel version with Westfalia Joker (or the Jerba Sana you showed) style. 😊
Brilliant video.Loving the layout differences.
Mine's the SWB std RnR bed layout,but comfy as you like.
Thank you. They are more diverse than people think
I finally bite the bullet, ordered a Wellhouse Misano 4.1 in build now to be collected 23rd November.
I don't want the bodykit. If you don't know why then I suggest that you've never tried to pull up or pull away from a piece of rough verge. Similarly I wouldn't thank you for low profile wheels because they are less resistant to kerbing. Yes to lowered suspension, not only for improved ride but the possibility of sneaking under height restricting barriers. I liked the twin single bed option because you could get a bike in the passageway (I have to go to bed with mine if I want it inside)!
Many people don’t want them, but people have different uses for them.
The car parks I go to and the beaches I visit are no good for the body kits if the suspension is to the floor. Yet some don’t have that problem and want them kitted out and low as they can.
It’s all personal choice.
It’s surprising we don’t see more of that layout, it certainly has its benefits
You saved the very best till last theres no doubt eco wagon plus,the craftsman ship and attention too details makes it top choice for me but i would spec it under 100k
They are lovely vans and despite what negatives people say, there is a market for them and they build them properly 👍🏼
You have often mentioned/ showed a company called Bespoke campers. It I can’t find them online, anyone got a link?
Bespoke don’t deal with the public, the vans are sold through dealers. www.tamarcaravancentre.co.uk/new+used/motorhomes/filters/body/campervan/
@@StaycationLifestyle thanks mate
Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen would be proud of this YT Review, it's all about Fabrics, Colours, finish & Wheels. No new functional improvements to make the vans better in everyday use. (Bit like owning a Range Rover)
Its not a review of the vans, they are al NCC Approved, Whole Vehicle Type Approved vans, they all have the usual fittings. There is nothing new as the Transporter is end of lifecycle and there aren't any new Transporters yet.
The point of the video was dispelling the "all Transporters are the same" showing that there are different layouts and styles available.
New vans with new products and new tech will follow when the new model is released and these converters create their models and go through the very expensive process of crash testing them and obtaining the required certificates.
I have a very similar layout to the Jerba with single beds but mine slide together and make a double. It feels so roomy as there is plenty of elbow space either side of the bed. I have a portapotti in a slide out draw. I do not like a toilet on display.
Most beds in these vans are not wide enough for two normal people. Weight distribution is a problem, all the weight is on the offside which affects handling.
They sell extremely well and have done for many years. They may not be the ideal choice for permanent living, but they are comfortable enough for leisure. Weight distribution is not a problem. If there was an issue with these vehicles they wouldn’t beable to obtain whole vehicle type approval.
They'll all handle fairly tidy compared with a full sized motorhome. They do shake a bit due to the roof being removed for the pop tops though.
Great video and it was good to meet you on Wednesday looking so well. Looking forward to the next instalment! Alex.
Thank you. Likewise, hope you managed to see and film everything you wanted
All.of the vans that have ungraded wheels still have the factory spare wheel underneath. I spoke to the chaps at hillside and asked if the swampers they build do they come with a full size spare and they said no .i couldn't find anyone fitting an adapted enlarged spare wheel carrier. Same again i couldn't find any tailgate spare wheel carriers.some needs to manufacture these at a sensible price as im desperately in need of one
That is a good question. Ive seen them on the roof of vans before, but that’s not ideal. I will ask some questions and return 😃
Wish they had this in the USA with same prices
interesting BUT no mention about campers for a single person. i have a campervan by Sussex campervan Campers need to be special for single travellers. i love my van cos there is so much space with a small bed. why dont manufacturers produce vans for singles ??
These vehicles are “Type approved” which costs tens of thousands of pounds in testing and development. The market for a single sleeper would be extremely limited and therefore not cost effective for these type approved manufacturers.
A van conversion company, like you have mentioned would be the best way to achieve that layout. Converters who will make a bespoke product exactly to your requirements would be needed.
Where is the mercs or more ford conversions??
The show is ran by the NCC and the majority of conversions are approved having gone through the strict regulation and safety criteria. These approved vans are mostly VW’s. I included the Ford I saw (there will be more of these I think next year) There were no small Mercs, but there was a bigger one which is in my video next week 👍🏼
And is cost just £75k what a bargain 😀
Or you could buy one for £50k, or maybe buy a used one. The point was the variety 👍🏼
Although I do like the £105k one 🤣
anyone paying 70 k plus for a van where you have to crap in a porta potty is insane !!! certifiable
They aren’t for everyone, but they sell extremely well. Partly due to the versatility of them, they can be daily driven, whereas a similar priced motorhome with a bathroom is much bigger and can’t be
Hot and cold water system with a shower is what’s in my van, what does it matter if you pee in a porti potty or a fixed loo, still needs to be emptied.
you're missing the point . after a certain age just the concept of squatting in the corner of a little van crapping on a little Porta Potti is absurd and frankly laughable when you're handing over 100 k for the privilege . @@williamclark3572
I have the same William, absolutely superb eh. Hired motorhomes, caravans, campers and for us the camper was the best option. I park it at the house, can use it to campsites or nip to Tesco, so versatile and looks ace. Price doesn’t matter if it works for us.
Lowered suspension and extra lumps of tacky plastic don't make any sense. Speed bumps potholes rough ground and ferries are going to damage that shit. Plus they make the vehicle look like a tarts handbag.
I used to have a jobl kampa which was brilliant with an adequate 5speed manual, great wee holiday wagon👍
Strangely though, you will find that many converters will add body kits and wheels because it’s the “eye candy” that people buy.
There are many different types of buyer, different tastes, preferences.
Some like the crazy colours and others prefer more neutral colours.
I like the DSG and wouldn’t even consider a 5 speed manual 🤣 Everyone is different 👍🏼
@@StaycationLifestyle I do like a nice rare colour but the more basic the less to go wrong or fall off. Wouldn't touch an automatic with a bargepole as I like changing gears (makes the journey less boring) and they cost a fortune to service/repair compared to a manual box.
I did like that Swift Ford Tourney a nice wee change from the obvious VW T6.
@@andrewstevenson6540 I like the Bay Leaf Green 🫣 That is a good point regarding the DSG, just personal preference.
It is nice, will be interesting to see what the new model will look like
Well I have a black t6.1 with body kit, spoiler, big wheels and dsg. I’m happy with my tarts handbag🤣.
Really don't like the grey carpet on a lot of these conversions
Much prefer anthracite carpet myself, however a lot of converters are trying to go with no carpet at all
@StaycationLifestyle yes i can't justify spending that much on a camper and having carpet on the walls and roof!
I wish you would stop saying leather seats when it's vinyl
I have checked and it is indeed leather 👍🏼
Now I feel an idiot🤭🤣@@StaycationLifestyle
@@dustyfruitypie1633 🤣 Too be honest it’s a fair comment, as some are not leather 👍🏼😁
None of those builds are value for money.
I think £53k for a brand new Campervan (not registered until bought) which has been built properly within regulation, including kitchen, poptop, rib bed etc is good in the current market.
Can you point me in the direction of better value for money? (Considering these will have good residuals)
I agree it’s a lot of money for a small van and for a little more you can buy a much bigger motorhome, but they are different vehicles.
Be funny having a shi@ while your going along the motorway
Not as a driver it wouldn’t 🤣