Finding the best vans for living full-time starts with understanding how space, comfort, and reliability work together on the road. Whether you are chasing powder in the Rockies or setting up camp near the coast, the right van supports long-term travel with ease. At The Vansmith in Boulder, Colorado, we focus on thoughtful design, durability, and sustainable materials for real-world van living.
Best Vans for Living Full Time: The Big Three Cargo Vans
These vans dominate full-time van living for good reason. They balance space, drivability, and long-distance comfort.
Mercedes Sprinter
Why it’s popular:
The Sprinter is a favorite among experienced vanlifers. It offers excellent interior height and long wheelbase options.
Best for:
-
Full-time travelers
-
Mountain and winter conditions
-
Long highway miles
Pros:
-
Tall roof allows easy standing
-
Available AWD for varied terrain
-
Smooth ride on long trips
Cons:
-
Higher upfront cost
-
Service centers are less common in remote areas
Innovative layouts and refined interiors help bring home-level comfort to extended journeys.
Ford Transit
Why it’s popular:
The Transit delivers flexibility, strong service availability, and multiple roof and length options.
Best for:
-
First-time full-time van living
-
Travelers covering large distances
-
DIY enthusiasts
Pros:
-
Easy maintenance across the U.S.
-
Strong fuel efficiency
-
Comfortable driving experience
Cons:
-
AWD availability varies by year
-
Interior width slightly limits sideways sleeping
The Transit is reliable and approachable, making it one of the best vans for living full time.
Ram ProMaster
Why it’s popular:
Front-wheel drive and a wide interior set the ProMaster apart.
Best for:
-
Urban travel
-
Wide bed layouts
-
Budget-conscious vanlifers
Pros:
-
Wide interior space
-
Lower step-in height
-
Competitive pricing
Cons:
-
Lower ground clearance
-
Not ideal for rough terrain
Its practical layout supports efficient storage and everyday comfort.
Other Great Van Options
Not every full-time traveler needs a large cargo van. These options serve specific lifestyles well.
Chevrolet Express / GMC Savana
Best for:
-
Proven reliability
-
Simpler mechanical systems
Key highlights:
-
Easy servicing
-
Strong V8 options
-
Lower purchase costs
Toyota HiAce
Best for:
-
International travelers
-
Long-term durability
Key highlights:
-
Legendary reliability
-
Compact exterior
-
Efficient fuel use
Smaller Vans (Transit Connect, Nissan NV200)
Best for:
-
Solo travelers
-
City-based living
Key highlights:
-
Easy parking
-
Lower fuel costs
-
Minimal footprint
Classic and Retro Vans (VW Westfalia, Ford Econoline)
Best for:
-
Nostalgia-driven travel
-
Weekend-focused living
Key highlights:
-
Iconic style
-
Simple interiors
-
Strong community support
What to Consider Before Choosing a Van
Choosing among the best vans for living full-time depends on how and where you travel.
Space vs. Maneuverability
Larger vans offer comfort, while smaller vans shine in cities and tight trails.
Budget
Factor in fuel, maintenance, and long-term ownership costs.
All-Wheel Drive or 4x4
Essential for snow, dirt roads, and mountain access.
Reliability and Maintenance
Easy servicing keeps full-time living stress-free.
Specialized Alternatives for Full-Time Van Living
Some travelers prefer unique platforms for extended travel.
Volkswagen Transporter (T6 / T7)
Best for:
-
European-style travel
-
Compact efficiency
Considerations:
-
Limited interior height
-
Higher parts costs in the U.S.
Volkswagen Crafter / MAN TGE
Best for:
-
Premium European platforms
Considerations:
-
Limited availability
-
Specialized servicing
Used Box Trucks or Ambulances
Best for:
-
Maximum interior volume
-
Long stationary stays
Considerations:
-
Larger footprint
-
Higher learning curve
Ford Transit Trail (2024 / 2025)
Best for:
-
Off-pavement travel
-
Mountain environments
Considerations:
-
Higher ride height
-
Limited availability
Key Considerations for Full-Time Living Comfort
Thoughtful interiors support life on the road.
Standing Height
Standing upright reduces fatigue during daily routines.
Interior Layout and Storage
Efficient storage keeps gear accessible and living areas clear.
Sustainable materials like bamboo, birch, and wool help reduce environmental impact while maintaining durability.
How to Choose the Right Van for Full-Time Living
Ask yourself these questions before deciding.
How much space do I need?
Solo travel needs less room than family trips.
Where will I travel most?
Mountains, cities, or highways shape your ideal platform.
What’s my budget?
Balance upfront cost with long-term value.
How easy do I want repairs and servicing to be?
Accessibility matters when living on the road full time.
Why Experience Matters
With over a decade of hands-on experience, The Vansmith approaches van living with care, precision, and attention to detail. Our family-run team brings craftsmanship, sustainable practices, and personalized guidance to every project. The goal is simple: vans designed to roam further and support confident exploration.
