Vanlife is booming among young drivers – but experts warn on maintenance costs

A growing number of young drivers are embracing vanlife culture but may be underestimating the ongoing costs of ownership. 

A quarter of people aged between 25 and 34 are considering buying a campervan instead of a car, according to a new survey conducted by The Green Insurer.  

But experts are warning that many new vanlife converts may not understand the financial realities. 

New data highlights a sharp rise in younger drivers embracing campervans, with a 277% year-on-year increase in 18–34-year-olds taking out specialist campervan insurance policies.  

While social media has helped fuel the trend, industry figures suggest the financial realities are often less visible. 

Maintenance costs can quickly add up, particularly for self-built conversions. Warranty data shows some of the most common issues include diesel injectors, alternators, batteries and turbochargers, with individual repairs often costing several hundred pounds.  

Experts also point to poor storage as a major contributor to avoidable costs. Campervans left idle for long periods are more prone to flat batteries, seized brakes, and damp, issues which can be resolved or reduced through regular checks, winterisation and routine servicing. 

As vanlife continues to grow in popularity, specialists advise would-be owners to budget beyond the purchase price. Factoring in maintenance, insurance, storage and repairs from the outset can help ensure the freedom of life on the road doesn’t come with unexpected financial shocks.