Best Van for Lone Travellers: Top Picks

Published January 10, 2024 | By Tom

Are you a lone adventurer looking for the perfect van to fuel your wanderlust? Look no further! We have curated a list of the best vans that cater to the needs of solo travelers like you. Whether you’re embarking on a road trip, going camping, or simply exploring new destinations, these vans offer the reliability, affordability, and comfort you crave.

Key Takeaways:

Choose a reliable van for solo travel to ensure a smooth journey.
Consider affordability when selecting a van for solo explorations.
Prioritize comfort and convenience for a pleasant road trip experience.
Opt for a spacious van that provides ample storage and room for relaxation.
Look for safety features that will ensure peace of mind during solo camping.

Winnebago Travato – The Top-Selling Camper Van

The Winnebago Travato is North America’s top-selling camper van, and it’s the perfect choice for solo senior campers. Built on a Ram Promaster chassis, the Travato offers exceptional reliability and performance.

One of the standout features of the Travato is its cozy corner bed. Accessible from both sides, it provides a comfortable and convenient sleeping space. Additionally, the van comes equipped with an inflatable bed for accommodating guests.

The Travato also boasts a wet bath, which combines the shower and toilet area into a single space-saving unit. This feature ensures that you have all the necessary facilities for your camping adventures.

Furthermore, the Travato’s fully equipped kitchen allows you to prepare delicious meals on the go. With a stove, sink, and refrigerator, you’ll have everything you need to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Inside the Travato, you’ll find a spacious interior that provides ample room for movement and storage. Whether you’re embarking on a short getaway or a long-term road trip, the Travato offers the comfort and functionality you need.

“The Winnebago Travato is the top-selling camper van, and it’s easy to see why. With its cozy bed, fully equipped kitchen, and spacious interior, it’s the ideal choice for solo senior campers.”

Pleasure-Way Ascent TS

The Pleasure-Way Ascent TS is a compact camper van designed specifically for solo senior campers. Built on the reliable Mercedes Benz Sprinter platform, this van offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and convenience.

One of the standout features of the Pleasure-Way Ascent TS is its rear lounge area, which can easily be converted into a queen bed. This cozy space is complemented by a TV, ottoman, and table, providing a comfortable and relaxing environment for solo travelers.

In addition to its sleeping and lounging areas, the Ascent TS also boasts a fully equipped galley kitchen, allowing you to prepare your favorite meals on the road. The van also includes a wet bath, ensuring that you have all the necessary amenities for a comfortable camping experience.

Storage space is a crucial consideration for solo travelers, and the Pleasure-Way Ascent TS does not disappoint in this aspect. With cleverly designed storage solutions, you’ll have ample room for all your belongings, making it easy to stay organized during your adventures.

Overall, the Pleasure-Way Ascent TS is a top choice for solo senior campers who prioritize comfort, versatility, and style in their camper van. Its compact size, luxurious features, and thoughtful design make it an ideal companion for memorable solo journeys.

Roadtrek Zion – For Solo Senior Campers Who Want Luxury

The Roadtrek Zion is the ultimate choice for solo senior campers who desire a luxurious camping experience. This van offers unparalleled comfort, style, and convenience, making it the perfect home away from home.

The Roadtrek Zion boasts an open concept layout, creating a spacious and inviting atmosphere. The highlight of the van is its comfortable lounge area, which can easily be transformed into a luxurious king bed for a restful night’s sleep.

In addition to its comfortable sleeping arrangements, the Roadtrek Zion features a power sofa that provides the perfect spot to relax and unwind after a day of exploration. The plush seating ensures maximum comfort, allowing you to truly enjoy your time on the road.

The van also includes a spacious galley, equipped with everything you need to prepare delicious meals on the go. You’ll find a fridge, propane stove, microwave, and ample storage space, including a convenient slide-out pantry and a large pot drawer.

Whether you’re cooking up a gourmet feast or enjoying a quick snack, the Roadtrek Zion’s well-designed galley has you covered.

Furthermore, this luxurious van offers plenty of storage space throughout, allowing you to bring all your essential items and belongings without compromising on comfort or organization. With a van as well-equipped as the Roadtrek Zion, you’ll have everything you need within reach.

Overall, the Roadtrek Zion is the perfect choice for solo senior campers who crave a camping experience filled with luxury and comfort. It’s the ultimate van for those who want to travel in style and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Features	Description
Luxurious open concept layout	Spacious and inviting atmosphere
Comfortable lounge	Transforms into a luxurious king bed
Power sofa	Provides a relaxing space to unwind
Spacious galley	Fridge, propane stove, microwave, and ample storage space
Plenty of storage space	Slide-out pantry and large pot drawer

Airstream Interstate 19

The Airstream Interstate 19 is the perfect diesel camper van for solo senior campers seeking comfort and luxury on their adventures. Built on the reliable Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis, this van offers a cozy lounge area with plush leather seating, providing a relaxing space to unwind after a day of exploration. Settle in and enjoy your favorite TV shows and movies on the included entertainment system.

The Airstream Interstate 19 features a fully equipped galley, complete with a microwave, fridge/freezer, and a 2-burner cooktop. You can prepare delicious meals and enjoy dining in the comfort of your own cozy home on wheels. The van also includes a spacious wet bath, ensuring you have all the amenities you need for a refreshing shower while on the road.

With its luxurious amenities and attention to detail, the Airstream Interstate 19 offers solo senior campers a premium camping experience. Whether you’re embarking on a solo road trip or simply exploring the great outdoors, this camper van provides the comfort and convenience you desire.

Winnebago Roam – Perfect for Solo Senior Campers Who Have Mobility Issues

The Winnebago Roam is an excellent option for solo senior campers who have mobility issues. Built on a Ram Promaster chassis, it offers a range of features designed to enhance accessibility and ease of use.

The Roam includes a remote-controlled wheelchair lift, allowing campers with mobility devices to easily enter and exit the van. The interior is thoughtfully designed with wide aisles and easily navigated spaces, ensuring maneuverability for individuals with mobility challenges.

For added safety, the Roam is equipped with tie-downs to secure mobility devices during travel, providing peace of mind for campers. The van also features a wet bath with a shower and cassette toilet, offering convenience and accessibility.

In terms of living quarters, the Roam boasts a fully equipped kitchen, complete with a stove, sink, and refrigerator. Campers can prepare meals and enjoy the comfort of home-cooked food on their journeys. Additionally, the van includes a spacious seating lounge that converts into a bed, ensuring a restful sleep after a day of adventure.

For those who desire additional sleeping space or an expansive view, the Roam offers an optional pop-top tent. Campers can enjoy the great outdoors while still having the convenience and comfort of their van.

With its focus on accessibility, comfort, and convenience, the Winnebago Roam is the perfect choice for solo senior campers with mobility issues.

Key Features	Benefits
Remote-controlled wheelchair lift	Easy access for campers with mobility devices
Spacious and easily navigated interior	Enhanced maneuverability for individuals with mobility challenges
Tie-downs to secure mobility devices	Added safety and peace of mind during travel
Wet bath with shower and cassette toilet	Convenience and accessibility for personal hygiene
Fully equipped kitchen	Ability to prepare meals on the go
Convertible seating lounge that converts into a bed	Comfortable sleeping quarters after a day of adventure
Optional pop-top tent	Additional sleeping space and the experience of camping under the stars

Factors To Consider When Choosing a Van for Solo Senior Camping

When embarking on solo senior camping adventures, choosing the right van is crucial for a comfortable and convenient experience. Several factors should be taken into consideration to ensure the perfect match:

Comfort and Convenience

Comfort and convenience should be at the top of the list when selecting a van for solo senior camping. Look for features such as:

Quality upholstery for a cozy and inviting interior
Spacious beds that provide a comfortable sleeping area
Easy-to-convert or accessible beds that cater to individual mobility needs

Safety Features

Ensuring safety on the road is paramount for solo senior campers. Look for vans equipped with advanced safety features, including:

Backup cameras for improved visibility and assistance while maneuvering
Collision prevention systems that help avoid accidents
Properly functioning tires, brakes, and lights

Mobility and Ease of Use

For seniors with mobility issues, a van that prioritizes accessibility is essential. Consider the following factors:

Spacious floor plans that allow easy movement within the van
Power doors and steps for effortless entry and exit
Accessibility features such as wheelchair lifts or ramps

“Choosing a van that offers comfort, safety, and ease of use will ensure a memorable and enjoyable solo senior camping experience.” – Experienced Solo Senior Camper

By carefully considering these factors, you can select a van that perfectly suits your needs and enhances your solo camping adventures.

Exploring Different Van Types for Van Life

When it comes to van life, there are various types of vans to consider. Each type has its own pros and cons, offering different features and benefits to van life enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best vans for van life and what sets them apart.

Jeep/SUV with Roof Tent

A Jeep or SUV with a roof tent is a popular choice for outdoor adventurers who value flexibility and off-road capabilities. These vehicles can serve as everyday vehicles while also providing a comfortable sleeping space in the roof tent. Although they may not offer a built-in living space or standing room inside, their compact size allows for easy maneuverability and extra storage space.

Ford Econoline E150

The Ford Econoline E150 is a compact van that offers affordability and versatility for van life. It’s small enough to park anywhere and easily blends in with urban environments. While it may not have the spaciousness of larger vans, it can still accommodate a comfortable bed, small kitchen, and storage space. The Econoline E150 is a popular choice for budget-conscious van life enthusiasts.

Mercedes Sprinter

The Mercedes Sprinter is a spacious and luxurious option for van life. With its modern amenities and roomy interior, it provides a comfortable living space ideal for full-time van dwellers. However, Sprinters can be more expensive to purchase and maintain, and their larger size may make city driving more challenging.

Dodge Promaster

The Dodge Promaster is an economical and DIY-friendly option for van life. Its front-wheel drive provides better traction, and its boxy shape makes it easier to convert into a living space. While its ground clearance is slightly lower than other vans, the Promaster offers ample interior space and is a popular choice for van life enthusiasts on a budget.

RV

RVs, or recreational vehicles, provide the ultimate comfort and convenience for van life. They offer fully equipped kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas, making long-term travel a breeze. RVs come in various sizes and styles, from compact Class B vans to spacious Class A motorhomes. However, they can be more expensive to purchase and maintain, and their larger size may limit access to certain locations.

Comparison of Different Van Types for Van Life

Van Type	Pros	Cons
Jeep/SUV with Roof Tent	Off-road capabilities, compact size, extra storage space	No built-in living space, limited standing room
Ford Econoline E150	Affordability, compact size, easy maneuverability	Limited interior space
Mercedes Sprinter	Spacious interior, modern amenities	Higher cost, challenging city driving
Dodge Promaster	Economical, DIY-friendly, ample interior space	Limited ground clearance
RV	Ultimate comfort and convenience, fully equipped	Higher cost, larger size

When choosing a van for van life, consider your budget, needs, and desired travel destinations. Each van type offers unique features and benefits, so take the time to research and find the best fit for your adventurous lifestyle.

Jeep / SUV with Roof Tent

Opting for a Jeep or SUV with a roof tent is a great option for outdoor adventures. These vehicles can serve as your everyday vehicle and can take you anywhere, as roads are optional. However, they may not provide a built-in living space or standing room inside. They are best for those who prioritize outdoor activities and need a compact vehicle with extra storage space.

Key Features:

Compact size
Extra storage space
Outdoor adventure capabilities

One of the advantages of choosing a Jeep or SUV is its compact size. It allows you to navigate narrow trails and park in tight spaces, giving you more freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations. Additionally, these vehicles offer ample storage space for all your camping gear, allowing you to bring everything you need for your outdoor adventures.

When paired with a roof tent, a Jeep or SUV becomes a convenient and cozy sleeping space. While it may not provide a built-in living space or standing room, the roof tent offers a comfortable small bed for a good night’s sleep under the stars. It’s a convenient option for solo travelers or couples who enjoy camping in remote locations.

“Choosing a Jeep or SUV with a roof tent allows you to have the best of both worlds: a practical everyday vehicle and the ability to embark on outdoor adventures at a moment’s notice.”

Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip or a longer expedition, a Jeep or SUV with a roof tent offers the flexibility to enjoy the great outdoors while still having a reliable everyday vehicle. It’s an ideal choice for those who want to explore remote locations, experience outdoor adventures, and have the freedom to go wherever their wanderlust takes them.

Ford Econoline E150 or Similar

The Ford Econoline E150 or similar models are compact vans that provide affordability and comfort for solo travelers. These vans are small enough to easily park anywhere, making them ideal for urban areas. Despite their compact size, they offer a comfortable bed, small kitchen, and ample storage space. The affordability of these vans makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers. However, it’s important to note that standing room may be limited and not all models come with 4WD capability.

Here are some key features of the Ford Econoline E150:

Affordability: The Econoline E150 is known for its budget-friendly price point, making it a great option for travelers on a tight budget.
Compact Size: The van’s compact size allows for easy maneuvering and parking in crowded areas, making it an ideal choice for city exploration.
Comfortable Bed: Despite its small size, the Econoline E150 offers a comfortable bed, ensuring a good night’s sleep during your travels.
Small Kitchen: The van comes equipped with a small kitchen area, allowing you to prepare simple meals on the go.
Storage Space: The Econoline E150 provides sufficient storage space for your belongings, ensuring you can bring along everything you need for your journey.

Overall, the Ford Econoline E150 and similar models are excellent choices for solo travelers looking for an affordable and compact van with essential amenities. While they may not offer as much standing room or 4WD capability as larger models, these vans provide comfort, convenience, and the freedom to explore the open road.

Mercedes Sprinter or Similar

The Mercedes Sprinter and similar van models are renowned for their spacious interiors and modern amenities, making them an excellent choice for van life enthusiasts. These vans provide a comfortable living space, allowing you to make the most of your full-time van life experience. With their ample headroom and well-designed layouts, the Mercedes Sprinter offers plenty of room to relax and move around, creating an inviting and comfortable environment on the road.

Equipped with various modern amenities, such as a fully equipped kitchen, cozy sleeping areas, and functional bathroom facilities, the Mercedes Sprinter ensures that you have all the essential comforts of home while traveling. Whether you’re a digital nomad working remotely or an adventure-seeking traveler, the spacious interior and modern amenities of the Sprinter van will enhance your van life journey.

However, it’s important to consider that Mercedes Sprinter vans may come with a higher price tag compared to other van models. Additionally, due to their specialized components and systems, maintenance and repairs may require the services of specialized dealers or mechanics. Furthermore, the larger size of these vans may pose challenges when driving in urban areas or navigating narrow roads.

Feature	Mercedes Sprinter	Similar Van Model
Interior Space	Spacious	Varies
Price	Higher	Varies
Maintenance	Specialized Dealers/Mechanics	Varies
City Driving	Challenging	Varies

Dodge Promaster Vans

Looking for an economical option for your van life adventures? Consider Dodge Promaster vans. These vans are not only budget-friendly but also offer several features that make them a popular choice among van lifers.

One notable feature of Dodge Promaster vans is their front-wheel drive, which provides better traction on the road. While they may not be as agile as rear-wheel drive or 4×4 vehicles, their front-wheel drive setup offers improved handling and stability, making them a reliable choice for long journeys.

Another advantage of Promaster vans is their DIY-friendly design. With their boxy shape and straight lines inside, they are easier to convert into a customized living space. Whether you’re planning a simple conversion or a more elaborate setup, the Promaster’s layout allows for greater flexibility and creativity.

However, it’s important to note that the Promaster’s ground clearance is slightly lower compared to some other van options. This limits their off-road capability, making them more suitable for road trips and urban exploration. But if you prioritize fuel efficiency and a smoother ride on paved roads, the Promaster won’t disappoint.

To summarize, Dodge Promaster vans are an economical option for van life enthusiasts. Their front-wheel drive provides better traction, while their boxy shape and DIY-friendly design make them easier to convert. Just keep in mind their limited off-road capability. Explore the possibilities with a Dodge Promaster and embark on your van life journey today!

Pros	Cons
Front-wheel drive for better traction	Limited off-road capability
DIY-friendly design for easy conversions	Lower ground clearance compared to some other vans
Economical option for budget-conscious travelers

Other Van Life Vehicle Options

In addition to the panel-style vans, there are other vehicle options for van life. Take a look at these popular vintage-style vans that offer unique layouts and features:

Ford Econoline

The Ford Econoline is a classic van that is often chosen for its nostalgic appeal. With its spacious interior and iconic design, the Econoline provides a charming and comfortable living space for van life enthusiasts.

VW Vanagon

The VW Vanagon is a beloved choice among van lifers for its compact size and vintage charm. Despite its small footprint, it offers clever storage options and a cozy interior that maximizes functionality.

Westfalia

Westfalia is a renowned brand that specializes in camper van conversions. Their vans combine the reliability of modern vehicles with the timeless appeal of vintage style. Westfalia vans are known for their clever layouts and quality craftsmanship.

While these vintage-style vans offer a unique aesthetic and layout, keep in mind that they may require more mechanical skills and can be more expensive to maintain due to their age. However, for those seeking a more robust 4×4 capability, aftermarket conversions are available for certain van models.

Sprinter Vans

Sprinter vans are a popular choice for van life enthusiasts, offering a range of features and benefits for a comfortable and enjoyable travel experience. These vans are known for their good gas mileage, spacious interiors, and the availability of a 4×4 option.

One of the advantages of Sprinter vans is their fuel efficiency, which allows travelers to go further on their adventures without frequent stops for refueling. The spacious interiors provide ample room for living, sleeping, and storage, making it easier to create a comfortable and organized living space.

For those who enjoy off-road exploration, Sprinter vans offer a 4×4 option that enhances the vehicle’s capability to navigate rough terrain and challenging road conditions. This feature provides added flexibility and opens up new possibilities for travel destinations.

However, it’s important to consider the potential downsides of Sprinter vans. While they offer numerous benefits, they can be expensive to purchase and maintain compared to other van options. Additionally, the complex computer systems in Sprinter vans may require specialized mechanics for repairs and maintenance.

Overall, Sprinter vans are an excellent choice for van life enthusiasts who prioritize gas mileage, spacious interiors, and the option for off-road exploration. When considering a Sprinter van, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision that suits your budget and travel needs.

Pros	Cons
Good gas mileage	Expensive to purchase and maintain
Spacious interiors	Complex computer systems may require specialized mechanics
Availability of a 4×4 option

Ford Transit Vans

When it comes to van life, Ford Transit vans are a popular and more budget-friendly option. These versatile vans offer a range of features and benefits that make them suitable for solo travelers.

One of the key advantages of Ford Transit vans is the availability of an all-wheel drive version. This provides better traction and stability, making them well-suited for various terrains and weather conditions.

Additionally, Ford Transit vans are known for their lower maintenance costs compared to other van models like Sprinters. This can help save money in the long run, allowing van dwellers to allocate their funds toward other travel expenses.

Another notable feature of Ford Transit vans is their tall interior height. This makes them particularly appealing to taller individuals who require more headroom and comfortable living space. The spacious interior offers ample room for sleeping, cooking, and storage, enhancing the overall van life experience.

However, it’s important to note that Ford Transit vans may have a lower clearance compared to other vans. This could impact their off-road capabilities and limit access to certain areas. Additionally, the all-wheel drive model is only available with a gas engine, which may be a consideration for those seeking alternative fuel options.

Pros	Cons
More budget-friendly	Lower clearance
All-wheel drive option available	Gas engine only for all-wheel drive
Lower maintenance costs
Tall interior height

Conclusion. Solo Van Life Guide

After considering various options, the best van for lone travelers ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. The Winnebago Travato, Pleasure-Way Ascent TS, Roadtrek Zion, Airstream Interstate 19, and Winnebago Roam are all excellent choices for solo senior campers.

When making a decision, factors such as comfort, safety, mobility, and convenience should be taken into account. The vans mentioned in this article offer unique features and benefits to enhance the solo camping experience.

Whether you prefer a compact van, a luxurious RV, or a versatile Sprinter, there is an ideal option out there for you. Consider your desired level of comfort, the safety features you value, the ease of mobility, and overall convenience.

By carefully assessing these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the best van for your solo adventures, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable travel experience.

FAQ

What are the top vans for solo senior campers?

The top vans for solo senior campers include the Winnebago Travato, Pleasure-Way Ascent TS, Roadtrek Zion, Airstream Interstate 19, and Winnebago Roam.

What features do these vans offer for solo camping?

These vans offer features such as cozy beds, fully equipped kitchens, wet baths, and spacious interiors.

What should I consider when choosing a van for solo camping?

Factors to consider when choosing a van for solo camping include comfort and convenience, safety features, and mobility and ease of use.

What makes the Winnebago Travato a top choice for solo senior campers?

The Winnebago Travato is North America’s top-selling camper van. Built on a Ram Promaster chassis, it offers a cozy corner bed and a wet bath and fully equipped kitchen.

What are the features of the Pleasure-Way Ascent TS?

The Pleasure-Way Ascent TS is a compact camper van built on the Mercedes Benz Sprinter. It offers a rear lounge area that converts into a queen bed, a fully equipped galley kitchen, and a wet bath.

What makes the Roadtrek Zion luxurious for solo senior campers?

The Roadtrek Zion features an open concept layout with a comfortable lounge that can be transformed into a king bed. It also includes a spacious galley with modern amenities and ample storage space.

What are the features of the Airstream Interstate 19?

The Airstream Interstate 19 is a diesel camper van built on a Mercedes Benz Sprinter chassis. It offers a cozy lounge area with leather seating, a fully equipped galley, and a spacious wet bath.

Why is the Winnebago Roam a good option for solo senior campers with mobility issues?

The Winnebago Roam includes a wheelchair lift for easy access. It also has an easily navigated interior with tie-downs for mobility devices, a wet bath, and a fully equipped kitchen.

What factors should I consider when choosing a van for solo senior camping?

Factors to consider include comfort and convenience, safety features, and mobility and ease of use.

What are the different types of vans for van life?

Different van types for van life include Jeep/SUV with a roof tent, Ford Econoline E150, Mercedes Sprinter, Dodge Promaster, and RVs.

What is the Jeep/SUV with roof tent option suitable for?

The Jeep/SUV with a roof tent is a great option for outdoor adventures. It provides extra storage space but may not have a built-in living space or standing room inside.

What are the features of the Ford Econoline E150 or similar models?

The Ford Econoline E150 and similar models offer affordability, a comfortable bed, a small kitchen, and storage space. They are compact and ideal for urban areas.

What makes the Mercedes Sprinter or similar vans popular for van life?

The Mercedes Sprinter vans are known for their spacious interiors and modern amenities. They provide a comfortable living space and are ideal for full-time van life.

What are the features of Dodge Promaster vans?

Dodge Promaster vans are an economical option with front-wheel drive. They are DIY-friendly for conversions but may have slightly less ground clearance than other vans.

What are the other van life vehicle options?

Other options include Ford Econoline, VW Vanagon, Westfalia, and vintage-style vans. Aftermarket 4×4 conversions are available for certain van models.

Why are Sprinter vans popular for van life?

Sprinter vans have good gas mileage, spacious interiors, and availability of a 4×4 option. They come in different wheelbase lengths to suit various living space needs.

What are the features of Ford Transit vans?

Ford Transit vans are a more budget-friendly option for van life. They offer all-wheel drive, lower maintenance costs, and a tall interior height option.

What is the best van for lone travelers?

The best van for lone travelers depends on individual preferences and needs. Consider factors such as comfort, safety, mobility, and convenience when making a decision.