VW Transporter vs Crafter: Which Makes The Better Campervan?

VW transporter vs crafter - VW Camper Reimo Pop Top

 

When it comes to hunting down the perfect base van for your conversion for our money, the battle often comes down to two main players – it’s a face-off in the shape of the VW transporter vs crafter

But then – which option is likely to work best for you? Whether you are looking for a VW Crafter conversion in particular, or are open to suggestions, let’s break down the pros and cons of both popular choices.

 

The VW Transporter – Pros and Cons

 
VW Campervan Conversions with Pop Top Roof

As you may know, the VW Transporters are among the most popular vehicles to use as camper vans, and with good reason.

First of all, they are a perfect size. Whether you are alone or with loved ones, there is just enough room in a converted Transporter for everyone to fit comfortably. They have a good amount of floor space, which leaves plenty of room for renovation, turning them into the exact kind of camper van that suits your needs and wants on the move.

However, their large interior does not mean that you have to deal with the inconveniences that come with larger vehicles. In fact, many people use their Transporters as their everyday vehicles as they handle perfectly like smaller cars, and are just the right size to fit into general car parks.

That will increase your opportunities on the road when you travel and will make your camper van more of an everyday vehicle, should you need it.

However, the Transporter reputation has also led to it being a very popular and sought out vehicle, which naturally increases its value. If you are on a budget, then the Transporter may not be the best option financially, compared to a Crafter.

That being said, given the differences in size, you should also consider the amount that you will have to spend on fuel on either vehicle, in which case the Transporter comes up ahead.

Finally, the T6, in particular, is the most secure, the safest and the greenest vehicle between the options here today. That means that you will be able to take it into even more places than you would the T5 or, indeed, a Crafter. It also technically means that you would be driving a safer vehicle for you and your loved ones. Many people also invest in VW Transporter conversions for the floor space.

 

The VW Crafter – Pros and Cons

VW Crafter Campervan ConversionEven if the Transporter allows you to technically travel to more places, the Crafter will carry you and your loved ones more comfortably, for longer. That means longer journeys and even more independence, too.

The second big pro about the Crafter is the price. Despite it being the bigger vehicle, many people have found that they can easily get a Crafter for cheaper than they would a Transporter, especially second hand.

However, with that extra size, as was previously mentioned, you will also have to consider the extra cost of fuel. Yes, you will be able to fit a lot more into your Crafter, but that extra weight will add to your running costs.

The size will also prevent you from accessing certain areas, notably most public car parks. Although this may appear to be a minor inconvenience, it can quickly become an issue the more you use the vehicle.

Given the size and fewer access possibilities for the Crafter, fewer people use them as daily vehicles. That automatically means that although you could have the Transporter as your holiday and work vehicle, all in one, you would need another vehicle along with your Crafter, to get to work, run errands, and use for your general daily purposes. That extra cost should also be considered in your final choice.

Also – believe it or not – the Crafter doesn’t have as much floor space as the Transporter. Despite the fact that it’s an absolute leviathan of a machine, it’s not actually the most economical on room!

 

VW transporter vs crafter final thoughts

 

In conclusion, there is no denying that both vehicles are of great quality – and it’s clear to see why so many people love converting them. We have seen more than a few take to the road over the years, leaving our purpose built workshop, too.

Volkswagen has garnered its reputation for being reliable, accessible, modern, and comfortable in great part, thanks to these two particular vehicles. The choice between the two really boils down to what you need.
You might be looking for an easy run-around vehicle that can also be a camper van, or a bigger vehicle for more space, bigger families, and even more comfort.

If you’re looking for a VW Transporter Conversion, and are open to the idea of taking up a Crafter instead, then you’ll be happy to hear that there isn’t necessarily a winner in the VW Transporter vs Crafter battle. Yes, Crafters are big brutes and can fit a lot of extra facilities – but the Transporter might actually appeal to you more if you’re looking for flexibility and ease of movement.

Now, you just need to ensure that you get the best camper van conversion possible. Sherwood Campers’ team of friendly and experienced professionals can help you get the best camper van conversion of your dreams – thanks to our wide range of conversions, you are bound to find the right pick for you alone, or for you and your travel buddies!

For more information about our camper van conversions, please call us on 01623 862951, or email us at info@sherwoodcampers.co.uk. We can’t wait to get you on the road in the best camper van conversion around!

Gez

Gez Meehan's career, from The Parachute Regiment to leading Sherwood Campers Ltd, showcases a remarkable blend of discipline and craftsmanship.
His background as a plumbing and gas engineer laid the foundation for his transition into the camper van industry, sparked by his own experiences with camper conversions.
Since becoming the Managing Director in October 2013, Gez has been pivotal in designing and building each of Sherwood Campers' bespoke conversions. His hands-on involvement ensures that each vehicle meets the highest quality standards, tailored to the unique needs of his customers.