Easy drivers: The top 5 micro campers

Good things come in small packages. Micro campers are an easy to drive, economical, and affordable alternative to full-sized campervans — and they can even fit in standard parking spaces. Check out our top picks below.

Van lifers may use micro campers to embrace a stripped back lifestyle. Harnessing the limited space as motivation to spend less time inside, and more time getting in touch with nature.

However, micro campers’ real strength lies in weekend getaways. Avoiding the stress and additional costs of driving a larger vehicle, these little homes on wheels can still pack the beds, kitchens, and folding tables needed for a comfortable mini break. Even if standing up inside it unlikely…

Loosely defined as campervans based on small LCVs; here are our top 5 micro camper picks.

5. Citroën Berlingo

The UK’s favourite small van is also one of its most popular models for micro camper conversions. 

The Citroën Berlingo is a practical option due to the large cargo space found across the range, with the latest model boasting an expansive 4.4m³ capacity. This is ideal for housing camping conversion modules and is partnered by the handy storage cubbies which have become a staple of the series.

The basic interiors on older models have become increasingly luxurious as the van has evolved, and the Berlingo’s ‘easy to drive’ steering characteristics make for an all-round comfortable driving experience en route to your camping spot of choice.

Bonus: If the Berlingo’s styling isn’t to your taste, its Stellantis twins — the Peugeot Partner and Fiat Doblo — represent alternative options, largely differentiated by their unique faceplates and after sales services.

4. Nissan e-NV200

For campers looking to traverse Low Emission Zones (LEZ), minimise their environmental impact, or save a few pennies over larger gas guzzling campers, the Nissan e-NV200 is a solid electric micro camper base.

Offering up to 187 miles of guilt free range, this should have the juice to clear any LEZ restrictions and get you out of the city. Though, this may be impacted by how heavy your camping conversion of the 4.2m³ rear area is, so going off-grid may not be the move. Many professional conversions opt to boost the size with a pop-up roof, as showcased by Nissan’s Winter Camper concept (pictured above).

Compared to its ICE cousin — the also popular Nissan NV200 — the EV battery does add extra weight, but brings the benefit of allowing camping gadgets to be powered directly. We’ve been impressed by the sheer number of both variants remaining on the road despite their discontinuation in the early 2020s, a testament to their reliability, and another micro camper plus.

3. MINI Clubvan Camper

Yes, it’s only a concept, and its van status is dubious, but we couldn’t resist. Dubbed the ‘world’s smallest luxury campervan’ the MINI Clubvan Camper is the most compact micro camper on our list — and it makes for good conversion inspiration if nothing else.

Handling exactly like a car (because it’s a car), this modified Clubvan has miraculously squeezed in a bed for one, a kitchen complete with a stove, a fridge, a TV, and a heater for when the going get chilly. It’s just missing the kitchen sink, although there is a handheld shower to keep things clean out in the wild.

If MINI can fit all of that in, we reckon the potential for true micro conversions is huge. Anyway, back to reality.

 2. Ford Transit Connect

Here for more than just its prestigious Transit name, the Ford Transit Connect is another micro camper option highly regarded for its car-like driving characteristics. Although you could be fooled by the comforting responsiveness which follows driver inputs across its various generations, no cars are harmed during the construction of the Connect’s dedicated van platform.

Lauded for the high mpg numbers which are theme throughout the range, these economical runners also benefit from the extensive service and spare part networks which come hand in hand with the blue oval badge.

For our money, the slightly cramped living area (maxing out at 3.7m³ in the newest model) is a definite drawback, although 6-foot plus campers can still sleep flat in the back. Long-wheelbase models do expand conversion options beyond a bed on wheels, but if that’s all you need, the dual sliding side doors make either option comfortable — minimising crawling around the back.

1. Volkswagen Caddy

When it comes to campervans, you can never really go wrong with a VW. Volkswagen campers tend to represent the all-rounder option of their segment, and the Caddy is no different. 

With driving characteristics often compared to that of a Golf, economy figures not far off 60 mpg (pinch of salt needed once converted into a camper), and a myriad of trim options to set up a comfortable cabin — it’s a real micro camper box ticker.

Current generation is limited to 3.1m³ of storage space, but the long-wheelbase Caddy Maxi can bump this blank canvas up to 3.7m³ for more adventurous conversions. If you need a proof of concept, look no further than VW’s in-house camper: the Caddy California. Squeezing in a double bed, a kitchen, and plenty of storage nooks.

Do you agree with our list? Or have we missed your dream micro camper? Let us know on our social channels.

Hero image credit: VW