Who doesn’t know the VW T5 camper? Over the past few decades, it has established itself as the ideal companion for adventures and travel. For several years now ,it has also been very popularfor van life, especially as a DIY conversion. This article is the ultimate Volkswagen T5 camper guide for both long and short trips. We’ll focus in particular on the features every camper van should have—like a practical BOXIO dry toilet that’s easy to take along and stow away!
Why does the BOXIO fit every VW T5?
Whether your van is new or used, the BOXIO toilet makes your (camping) life easier. You can fit it almost anywhere in the van because it’s extremely compact. Tip: You can also easily move it from the trunk to the front (or vice versa). Feel free to place it in the passenger compartment while driving and let your travel companions use it as a footrest! It also works great as a storage space for your provisions (especially if you don’t want to set up a table). Even if you’re not using BOXIO as a toilet, take it with you anyway and use the handy Eurobox to store your camping gear!
What model variants are available for the VW T5?
The T5 is a very versatile model with various trim levels. The best versions for camping adventures are the T5 Multivan—designed as a spacious and comfortable family van with a flexible seating arrangement and generous interior space—and the T5 California, a model featuring a practical kitchenette and comfortable sleeping accommodations. This makes the camper ideal not only for family trips but also for travel or van life. It’s an excellent choice for anyone who values freedom, flexibility, and comfort on vacation.
What are the advantages of a VW T5 over other vans?
The key advantages of the VW Bulli T5 compared to other camper vans:
- Versatile model selection: VW offers various models, such as the Multivan, the Transporter, and the California, to meet different needs.
- Ample space: The T5 is known for its generous space, both for passengers and for luggage or camping gear.
- High-quality craftsmanship: Volkswagen stands for quality and durability, which is also reflected in the VW Bulli.
- Extensive dealer network: VW has a nationwide service network that makes maintenance and repairs for the T5 easy.
- Extensive equipment options: The T5 offers various equipment packages and extras to suit individual needs and preferences. These include, for example, LED headlights, a multifunction steering wheel, all-season tires, a navigation system, alloy wheels, a panoramic roof, and a practical parking assist system.
- Fuel-efficient and powerful engines: The Volkswagen T5’s diesel engines are known for their fuel efficiency and performance.
- Tried-and-true design: The T5 features a timeless and functional design that’s popular among many camping enthusiasts.
- Popularity within the community: The VW T5 is widely owned, making it easy to access experiences and tips within the T5 community.
- Good Resale Value: The T5 often retains its value better than many other camper van models.
- Comfort and driving experience: The T5 offers a pleasant driving experience on long trips.
What Should Every VW Camper Have?
Every VW T5 camper should have a few basic features and functions that make the vehicle a fully-fledged travel vehicle:
- Sleeping arrangements: A comfortable bed or sleeping area, such as a pull-out rear bench seat, so you can rest while driving or camping.
- Kitchenette: A small kitchenette with a hot plate or camping stove and a sink for preparing simple meals and washing dishes.
Tip: Looking for a handy camping sink? Then the BOXIO-Wash is just the thing for you! This portable sink is a real insider tip for all outdoor enthusiasts, since it requires no electricity or water connection and can therefore be used anywhere and easily taken along.
- Storage space: Ample storage options for clothing, food, camping gear, and personal items, so you can keep everything neat and organized.
- Seating: A comfortable place to sit so you can eat inside or relax when the weather outside isn’t cooperating.
- Electrical system: A power supply system with a battery or a connection for external power sources to power electronic devices.
- Water: A water supply system with fresh and wastewater tanks, as well as a pump or other means of drawing, using, and disposing of water.
- Insulation and ventilation: Good insulation and ventilation to keep the interior of the camper comfortable in various weather conditions.
- Windows and Privacy Screens: Windows for natural light and views, as well as curtains or shades for privacy and protection from sunlight.
- Camping table and chairs: A portable camping table and camping chairs for outdoor activities.
How do you convert the Volkswagen T5 into a campervan?
Want to try your hand at converting your own T5 into a campervan? Converting the VW T5 into a campervan is an exciting project that requires several steps and thorough preparation:
Planning and Brainstorming
- Define your needs and requirements for the conversion: What features should the camper have? (Sleeping area, kitchenette, storage space, etc.)
- Get inspired by other campervan conversions and do some research online to gather ideas for your floor plan and amenities.
Basic Setup
- Clear out the interior of the T5 and remove any unnecessary trim and seats to make room for the conversion.
Sleeping and Seating Arrangements
- Build a sleeping area that can be converted into seating when needed. This can be a fold-out or pull-out design.
Kitchenette
- Plan and build a kitchenette with a stovetop or a camping stove.
- Incorporate a sink or a dishwashing solution such as the BOXIO-Wash.
- Make sure there’s enough space for cooking utensils and food.
Storage Space and Cabinets
- Plan cabinets and shelves for clothing, gear, and personal items.
- Make the most of the available space to keep everything well organized.
Electrical System and Lighting
- Install an electrical system with a battery or a connection for external power sources.
- Provide lighting as needed.
Water System
- Plan a water supply system with a fresh water tank and a wastewater tank.
- Incorporate a pump or another method for drawing and disposing of water.
Tip: If you want to ensure top-notch hygiene in your VW Bulli, the BOXIO toilet is the perfect choice. This smart toilet solution separates urine from solid waste, reduces unpleasant odors, and makes disposal a breeze.
Insulation
- Make sure you have good insulation so that your campervan stays comfortable in various weather conditions.
Interior Design and Decoration
- Design the interior to suit your taste and personal style.
- Add curtains or shades to ensure privacy and sun protection
Tip: Looking for more inspiration for your T5 campervan conversion? Then check out our blog. Articles like“Van Life Interior Design for a ComfortableTrip” or“Van Life Accessories: Always Have the Right Things With You!” can give you additional ideas.
5 Tips for Buying a Used Volkswagen T5 Camper
Want to buy a used VW T5 camper? If you’re looking for a used vehicle, there are a few important things to keep in mind to make sure you find the perfect vehicle for your van life adventures:
1. Model
- Think about which T5 model suits you best: Multivan, Transporter, or California.
- Pay attention to the camper’s equipment options to ensure it offers the features and extras you want.
2. Condition and Mileage
- Carefully inspect the camper’s condition, especially for signs of rust or accident damage.
- Pay attention to the vehicle’s mileage, as this can indicate wear and tear and potential repair costs.
3. Maintenance and Service History
- Ask about the camper’s maintenance and service history to ensure that regular inspections and repairs have been performed.
- Look only for vehicles with a complete and verifiable maintenance history.
4. Test Drive and Functionality
- Take an extensive test drive to check the camper’s handling and functionality.
- Test all features, including the electrical systems, kitchen appliances, and other extras.
5. Price Comparison and Negotiation
- Compare the prices of similar T5 campers on the market to ensure you’re getting a fair deal.
- Negotiate the price and don’t let an enticing offer rush you—take your time to conduct a thorough inspection.
Volkswagen T5 Camper: Conclusion
Whether you’re buying a new or used Volkswagen T5 camper van, the Bulli will instantly become a faithful companion in everyday life and on trips. Since a camper van is always a major investment, we recommend renting a VW T5 camper van first before fully committing to the van life.
Whether you rent or buy, there’s one thing we can tell you right now: Since the Bulli isn’t a fully equipped motorhome with a built-in bathroom, the toilet situation will become an issue sooner or later. If you don’t want to do without a portable toilet , we recommend the BOXIO. It fits perfectly in the trunk or right in the passenger compartment and doesn’t look like a toilet at all. We promise!
