Why We Recommend Cargo Vans Over Passenger Vans for Camper Conversions
- Redpoint Vanture
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
If you’re considering converting a van into a camper, one of the first decisions you’ll face is:
Should I get a Cargo Van or a Passenger Van?
As a professional camper van conversion company, here’s our honest take— cargo vans offer significant advantages when it comes to structure, flexibility, insulation, and cost.
Here’s why:
1. Better Starting Structure for Conversions
Cargo vans come empty—no seats, no interior panels, no complications.
This saves time, labor, and money right from the beginning.
Passenger vans, on the other hand, often come with multiple rows of bolted-down seats, safety belts, plastic panels, ceiling liners, headliners, AC vents and often carpeted floors that take up space and reduce vertical clearance.
More teardown work is required to prep for a camper conversion — removing seats, wiring, plastic trim, and headliners can be time-consuming and may leave holes or exposed components.
2. Superior Insulation and Privacy
Fewer windows = better insulation.
Cargo vans retain heat more effectively in the winter and stay cooler in the summer, thanks to fewer glass surfaces and greater insulation potential.
Plus, fewer windows mean increased privacy and reduced theft risk, with no need for extra blackout window covers.
3. Improved Ventilation Options
With a cargo van, you have the freedom to install custom windows—choosing the style, size, quantity, and placement, including options with vents. Factory-installed windows in passenger vans typically don’t open, limiting ventilation.
Custom windows with vents, combined with a roof fan, significantly improve airflow, circulation, and moisture control.
4. More Design Freedom
Passenger vans limit your layout flexibility due to fixed window locations—you don’t want to block a beautiful view with a closet!
Cargo vans let you start from a blank canvas, giving you full creative control over your interior layout and lighting.
5. Simpler Electrical Systems
Passenger vans often come with factory HVAC, fans, and electrical wiring that may not fit your build plan and are a pain to remove or modify.
Cargo vans have simpler wiring, allowing a clean slate for solar panels, lithium batteries, and custom power systems tailored to your needs.
6. Lower Initial Cost
Cargo vans are generally cheaper than their passenger van equivalents.
Why pay extra for factory-installed features like seats and air conditioning that you’ll likely remove during the conversion?
But What About Passenger Vans?
They’re not all bad! In fact, they might be a better fit if:
You want more natural light and panoramic views
You plan to retain factory HVAC systems
You need to travel with multiple passengers and retain factory seat
Final Thoughts
If your goal is a fully customized camper van with optimal insulation, flexibility, and budget efficiency, a cargo van is our top recommendation.
But if you already own a passenger van, or if your build priorities include extra windows and factory features, it can still work—with a few extra steps.
Need help deciding or want to see real-life examples? Check out our gallery or book a visit to explore completed builds in person. We design and build every camper van with precision, performance, and your lifestyle in mind.