4 Vehicles You Can Use for Part-Time Van Life
- Kimberly Porter
- 22 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Looking for the perfect vehicle for weekend getaways? Discover four of the best buses for a part-time van life conversion, from classic VWs to reliable Fords.
Have you ever dreamt of hitting the open road, but aren't quite ready to give up the comforts of home? Part-time van life offers the perfect middle ground, blending adventure with stability. It allows you to explore new places on weekends or holidays without committing to a fully nomadic lifestyle. The first step to making this dream a reality is choosing the right bus for part-time van life.
1. Volkswagen Bus
The classic Volkswagen Bus is an icon of road-tripping culture. Its vintage charm and compact size make it a stylish and manageable choice for part-time adventurers. While older models require more maintenance and may not be the most powerful, their simple mechanics can be easier to work on. When needed, you can follow a Volkswagen bus maintenance checklist to make repairs or changes to your bus easily.
The community surrounding VW buses is also a huge plus, offering a wealth of knowledge and support. For those who value aesthetics and a sense of history, the VW Bus is an unbeatable choice.
2. Ford E-Series
The Ford E-Series, often referred to as the Econoline, is a popular choice for van conversions, and for good reason. These buses are known for their durability and the wide availability of parts, which makes maintenance relatively simple and affordable.
Their spacious interior offers a great blank canvas for a variety of layouts, whether you need a simple sleeping area or a more complex setup with a small kitchen. Because they were so widely used as shuttle buses, you can often find well-maintained, used models at a reasonable price.
3. Chevy Express / GMC Savana
Much like the Ford E-Series, the Chevy Express and its GMC counterpart, the Savana, are workhorses of the shuttle bus world. They are celebrated for their powerful engines and dependable performance.
These buses provide ample headroom and a boxy shape that maximizes interior space, making your conversion process much easier. If you're looking for a reliable vehicle that can handle long drives while providing a comfortable living space, the Express or the Savana is a fantastic option.
4. Sprinter Van
Sprinter vans, manufactured by Mercedes-Benz, are a premium choice for van lifers who prioritize fuel efficiency and a modern driving experience. They come in various lengths and roof heights, allowing you to choose a model that perfectly suits your needs.
The high-roof option is particularly popular because it allows most people to stand up comfortably inside. While they tend to have a higher initial cost, their excellent fuel economy and reputation for quality engineering can make them a worthwhile investment for part-time travel.
Start Your Van Life Adventure
Choosing the right bus for part-time van life is the first exciting step toward realizing your adventuring dreams. Each of these options offers a unique set of benefits, from the iconic style of a VW to the rugged reliability of a Chevy Express.
Take the time to consider your budget, travel style, and conversion goals to find the perfect vehicle for you. Once you have your wheels, you're ready to start building your home away from home and hit the road.