Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend escape or a longer adventure, choosing between a campervan and a caravan is a major decision. Both offer freedom and flexibility—but which one suits your lifestyle best?
What’s the Main Difference?
A campervan is a self-contained vehicle with its engine, while a caravan is towed and requires a suitable car. The key question is: do you want everything in one or prefer a base that stays put? Whether you’re dreaming of a weekend escape or a longer adventure, choosing between a campervan and a caravan is a major decision. Both offer freedom and flexibility—but which one suits your lifestyle best?
Advantages of Campervans
All-in-One Travel: Drive, cook, sleep and live in one vehicle—ideal for touring.
Easier to Manoeuvre: Especially smaller campervans—perfect for beginners.
Spontaneous Trips: No towing, no prep—just jump in and go!
Great for Touring: Ideal if you like changing destinations every few days.
Urban-Friendly: Easier to park in cities and villages.
Disadvantages of Campervans
Less Space: Especially in smaller models—can feel cramped for long stays.
Expensive to Buy: Generally more costly than equivalent caravans.
You Lose Your Pitch: If you drive off for the day, you pack everything up.
Higher Running Costs: Servicing, tax, and insurance tend to be more.
Advantages of Caravans
More Space for Your Money: Caravans often have more interior room than campervans at the same price point.
Leave It at the Site: Unhitch and use your car for day trips—very convenient.
Lower Cost: Generally cheaper to buy and insure.
Tow with Your Family Car: No need to buy a second dedicated vehicle.
Disadvantages of Caravans
Towing Challenges: Requires experience, confidence, and sometimes an upgraded driving licence.
Slower Travel: Towing limits speed and mobility.
Harder to Store: Bigger and more awkward to store off-season.
More Setup Time: Levelling, stabilising, and connecting services take time on arrival.
Which one is best for you?
Choose a campervan if… you love road trips, want quick getaways, and prefer something more mobile.
Choose a caravan if… you want more space, plan to stay in one spot for longer, and already have a good tow car.
What About Sites and Insurance?
Caravans may require more effort with towing permits, reversing skills, and larger pitches. Campervans often enjoy greater freedom, especially in rural or off-grid areas. Insurance and maintenance also tend to be simpler with campervans.
Key Differences Between a Campervan and a Caravan
| Feature | Campervan | Caravan |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | Yes – self-powered | No – must be towed |
| Ease of Use | Simple – park and go | Requires setup at site |
| Driving | Drives like a large car or van | Towing skills required |
| Parking | Easier to park | Requires space to unhitch |
| Running Costs | Higher (insurance, fuel, servicing) | Lower – no engine to maintain |
| Storage | Often driveway-friendly | May require off-site storage |
| Convenience for Day Trips | Vehicle must go with you | Leave caravan on-site, use car |
| Driving Licence | Standard licence usually sufficient | May require B+E licence |
Still Not Sure?
Visit RV Planet to compare in person. We can help you explore the benefits of each and talk through your travel goals to find the perfect fit.
