I want to ultimately start living and traveling in my van full time. Never really bought a car before and afraid I’ll get ripped off or scammed. Haven’t even bought it yet and getting that buyers remorse vibe…..
I need help
I haven’t checked in a while, but last time I looked van prices were extremely inflated. In your budget, maybe you could find a government surplus Econoline or Chevy van. Not luxurious but a good platform for your purposes.
I want to ultimately start living and traveling in my van full time
I've been an enthusiast of #vanlife and camper vans for a very long time.
Ultimately what you want is a reliable powertrain and a long and wide body.
The very typical van used for this is the Fiat Ducato (RAM ProMaster 3500) - BUT IT IS NOT RECOMMENDED!
In the US, the best Van for this propose is by far the "Nissan NV3500 High Roof" -
It's a Nissan Titan truck with a panel van body installed on it.
And as a result you get a well built 5.6-litre V8 with a reliable 7 speed automatic transmission.
This powertrain and huge rear compartment allows for the ability to build an insanely luxurious camper.
The best bed design:
You should be able to build something incredible, like this
This again, is quite a small van!
Or in a big van, like a Sprinter (AKA Crafter - same exact van)
The most popular option is the Mercedes Sprinter, but they tend to be pricy.
Also the Ford Transit isn't all that bad, they're decent vans.
If you can not find any good options, the ProMaster might be a last resort...
Try to find something that wasn't driven to the ground, and has reasonable millage, not over 150k.
Also, some people travel and sleep in very small vans - but they're no match for real campers.
https://youtu.be/fhjmh0hpQ2Q
Note that only the 4 speed automatic or manual are worth it - the CVT is absolute crap! (But it's unclear if 4AT/MT models available in the US)
OR a transit connect, which might be better - but it's a ford, so only very low millage cars are worth converting.
My number one choice for a live in and travel van would be a Sprinter. Most serious Van lifers get a Sprinter if they can afford it. But I highly doubt you can get one for $8k.
Possibly available for $8k is an older Toyota Sienna or Honda Odyssey, with an edge to Toyota for reliability and longevity.
Update. I don’t know how this happened but I was dining at a restaurant and bumped into my old principal and we got to talking about vans. She showed me A 2002 Chevrolet Express G3500 6.5L Turbo Diesel School Bus 104K miles good engine and transmission but needs battery has clean title and all service logs. She sold it to me for 1 dollar. Did I just experience good luck?
If it runs