By Roberto, CMO and Co-Founder at The Vansmith
Introduction
If you’re asking what is the best van to live in, you’re not alone. The search for the best van for van life is at the heart of every road trip dream, whether you’re chasing weekend escapes or full-time adventures. At The Vansmith, we’ve worked with the most popular platforms and know which vans you can live in deliver the best mix of comfort, reliability, and freedom.
What Are the Most Popular Vans for Van Life?
Popular Full-Size Vans
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Mercedes Sprinter: The go-to choice for many vanlifers. A reliable Sprinter van to live in offers ample space, diesel efficiency, and long life expectancy.
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Ford Transit: Affordable and widely available. A solid good van to live in for U.S. travelers.
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Ram ProMaster: Boxy design maximizes interior space. Great for layouts that need extra storage.
Smaller Vans for Budget-Friendly Travel
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VW Transporter: A cool van to live in that has been a European favorite for decades.
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Ford Transit Connect: Compact and economical. A good travel van for minimalists.
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Toyota HiAce (International): Known for durability and simplicity.
These represent the vans that you can live in across different budgets and lifestyles.
What Key Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Van?
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Size & Layout: Do you need standing room or a stealthier van?
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Fuel Economy: Diesels like the Sprinter are efficient, but gas engines are easier to service in remote areas.
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Maintenance Costs: Factor in parts availability and long-term upkeep.
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Budget: Used vans often provide the best value for starting out.
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Lifestyle Fit: Weekend trips, full-time living, or international travel.
At The Vansmith, our personalized attention and support ensures that whichever van you pick, it will be tailored to your vision and travel style.
Van Life Cost Comparison Table
|
Van Model |
Starting Price (New) |
Used Price Range |
Maintenance Cost |
Fuel Economy |
Overall Value for Van Life |
|
Mercedes Sprinter |
$50,000+ |
$25,000–$40,000 |
Higher |
18–22 MPG |
Reliable, premium option |
|
Ford Transit |
$42,000+ |
$20,000–$35,000 |
Moderate |
17–20 MPG |
Practical and versatile |
|
Ram ProMaster |
$40,000+ |
$18,000–$30,000 |
Moderate |
16–18 MPG |
Spacious and affordable |
|
VW Transporter |
$35,000+ (EU) |
$15,000–$25,000 |
Moderate |
25–28 MPG (diesel) |
Cool vans to live in, compact |
Why Is the Sprinter a Top Choice for Van Life?
The Mercedes Sprinter consistently ranks as the best van for van life because of its:
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Reliability: Known for lasting hundreds of thousands of miles.
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Space: High-roof options allow you to stand and move freely.
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Performance: Diesel engines deliver efficiency and power.
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Resale Value: Holds value better than most other vans.
If you’re looking for a Mercedes live in van, the Sprinter is hard to beat. It’s one of the great vans to live in for full-time travelers who want comfort, durability, and style.
At The Vansmith, our unmatched craftsmanship brings out the best in Sprinters, ensuring each one is built to roam further.
Final Thoughts: What Is the Best Van to Live In?
There are many good vans to live in, from the Ford Transit to the VW Transporter. Yet for long-term reliability, efficiency, and space, the Sprinter continues to be the best van to live in for 2025.
Whether you’re interested in vans to live in and travel short-term or want to create one of the best vans for vanlife, The Vansmith brings innovative designs and sustainable practices to every project.
Ready to make your adventure a reality? Explore how to customize your van and discover the freedom of a home on wheels.
FAQs
Which van is the most reliable for van life?
The Mercedes Sprinter is considered the most reliable.
What is the best van for full-time living?
Sprinter and Transit are excellent choices for long-term living.
Which van lasts the longest for van life?
Sprinters often exceed 200,000 miles with proper care.
Is a Sprinter worth the higher cost?
Yes, thanks to its durability, resale value, and comfort.
What is the coolest-looking van?
VW Transporter and Sprinter both top the list of cool vans to live in.
What is the best van with the longest life expectancy?
Sprinters and Toyota HiAce vans are known for longevity.
Can I live in a Sprinter van?
Absolutely. A Sprinter van to live in is one of the most popular choices worldwide.
