Auto-Trail rear lounge campervan

Introduction to rear lounge campervans

Rear lounge campervan layout guide

Campervans with a rear lounge are popular in the UK, due to our climate. This layout majors on relaxation space and great views out through windows on three sides. 

The alternative to a campervan with fixed beds (double or twin singles), is one that features a rear (or front) lounge. Come bedtime, the lounge seats convert to make up beds, either a double or two singles. 

Here, we take a look in detail at the benefits of a rear lounge campervan layout.

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Iain Duff, Content Editor: Campervans/Camping

Iain Duff Content Editor: Campervan/Camping

Iain Duff Content Editor: Campervan/Camping

Iain has been an avid camper since his very first night under canvas in his parents’ back garden, more years ago than he cares to remember. As a fully fledged gear geek he takes every opportunity to try out the latest camping gadgets when he’s out and about!

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Rear lounge layout

Storage considerations

Ahead of the lounge, kitchens tend to span part of the side sliding door’s opening, so are smaller, with less storage and work surface as a result. Opposite the kitchen is where you’ll usually find the washroom and wardrobe.

Disadvantages of this type of layout include a rather enclosed feeling up front between washroom and galley. Also, with the washroom often directly behind the driver, check that the seat moves far enough back to achieve a comfortable driving position.

Rear lounges with two facing sofas maintain access though the rear doors, allowing for loading taller items like bikes or kayaks. U-shaped lounges usually have storage lockers underneath.

Since your bedding (and any infill cushions to make a double bed) will need to be put away each morning, check carefully for where this can be stored. Some campervan designs are better in this regard than others. Typically, the sofas will lift to reveal storage space below, which is ideal for bedding, but check that the space is not taken up largely with heaters, tanks, etc. 

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Rear kitchen

Why choose a rear lounge campervan layout?

Rear lounge designs provide lots of relaxation space and great views out of the back. They are great for entertaining and a removable table usually goes in the middle. 

At night, settees may convert to two single beds or a double. Swivelling cab seats and a coffee table provide another seating area if you get up at different times.

Choose because:

  • We want plenty of space to relax indoors
  • We want lots of room to chill out with friends and family
  • We only need two travel seats
  • We don't mind making beds up every night
  • We get up and go to bed at different times

 

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Rear lounge seating

Top tips for buying a rear lounge layout campervan

Have a go at making the beds up and putting them away again to see how easy this is. They can vary quite a lot, with some needing many more cushions than others. Also check where your bedding will stow during the day, and any infill cushions required to make a double bed. Check that storage space below the seats isn't all taken up with heaters, tanks, etc.

Our top picks of rear lounge layout campervans

There's lots of choice from UK brands, so compare established names. Popular campervans include the Auto-Trail Expedition 66, Auto-Trail V-Line 540 SE  and Auto-Trail Adventure 65. From Auto-Sleepers, see the Auto-Sleeper Fairford, Auto-Sleeper Fairford Plus and Auto-Sleeper Warwick Duo. Test drive Hillside’s Hopton based on the VW Crafter, which is a delight to drive. The Elddis Autoquest CV20 and Elddis Autoquest CV80 both offer good value for money. For something a little different, check out the Mercedes Sprinter-based RP Explorer 2.

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