Introduction to rear kitchen campervans

A rear kitchen campervan layout offers some fantastic benefits over more traditional side kitchen layouts. 

Here we're looking at smaller VW-sized campervans, often with a pop-top rather than a high roof, and not the larger Fiat Ducato/Peugeot Boxer size of van conversions. If a side kitchen layout isn't for you, this is the key alternative in VW T6, Ford Transit Customs or similar-sized vans.

We take a look in detail at the benefits of a rear kitchen campervan layout.

There are various reasons why you might prefer a rear kitchen layout to the side kitchen design. Firstly, and perhaps the key reason to choose it, is the availability of single beds rather than a double. But, secondly, you can have a little more independence from campsite facilities, something that's become more important in recent times because of Covid. 

Instead of a Porta Potti kept in a cupboard, these models often have a built-in cassette toilet at the rear. There may be a screen or curtain to give some privacy for its use, too – so it's more than just an emergency-only toilet.

There's still plenty of choice of these layouts, with most of the major VW converters offering a version. If you're buying used, though, choice will be less because these campers sell in much smaller numbers than side kitchen layouts. 

It's worth noting, too, that rear kitchen models are more likely to be based on a long-wheelbase van, as it's a struggle to get this design into a sub-5m camper (although some firms have managed it).

More often than not, there are two forward-facing seats behind the cab seats (both of which should swivel). At the back of the camper, there are normally kitchen/storage units on either side. Often a fixed cassette toilet is hidden away, disguised as part of the galley furniture.

The seats should make into twin single beds, but check bed lengths (especially on the driver's side, where the steering wheel may restrict space) and how flat these beds are. Sometimes the singles can be adapted into a double bed but this is likely to be quite a compromised arrangement. 

If you want a rear kitchen layout with a double bed, it's better to look to models that were designed with that intention, such as Ford's Nugget 

Look carefully at storage space in these layouts, as it tends to be much less in comparison to side kitchen models. Losing that rear boot means that you may struggle to find somewhere to keep outdoor chairs and the like. Consider where you'll store bedding, too.

The slightly more spacious Ford Transit Custom is worth considering as an alternative to a VW. Dreamer and WildAx offer Ford-based rear kitchen models and Devon's Firefly (SWB or LWB) seems perennially popular.

Look carefully at how much storage is available, including under the seats. 

Check how private the toilet is in use and consider whether you want a pop-top or a high-top. 

Note that pop-tops are front-hinged in order to allow standing room in the rear kitchen and washroom, so make sure you still have enough room to stand up in the lounge.