Many people choose a Sprinter camper van when selecting an RV. With modern interiors and custom builds, they’ve become hugely popular. But why is such a small RV so expensive? Let’s examine why that might be.
What Is a Sprinter Van?
Sprinter vans are essentially cargo vans. They’re built on a Mercedes-Benz diesel chassis and offer a range of trims and options. You can customize your Sprinter van to accommodate a range of floor plans.
What Makes Sprinter Vans So Expensive?
Let’s explore the four overarching reasons why a Sprinter camper van might get expensive.
Higher Base Price and Labor
The base price of a Sprinter van before conversion into a camper van is about $35,000 to $45,000. Labor and materials for the conversion can range from $5,000 to $35,000 or more, depending on your floor plan and features. If you’re doing the custom build on your own, you can save a little money.
When purchasing a class B Sprinter camper van from an RV dealer, the price tag will also include their markup. Some of the vans currently on the market are going for more than $200,000.
Supply and Demand
Camper vans are a hot ticket item right now, particularly with the increase in remote workers. A van makes travel more accessible for many who don’t want to deal with a large RV. With the demand at an all-time high and the manufacturers having to keep up, the price has spiked.
Smaller Market
A Sprinter camper van isn’t for everyone. This has created a bit of a niche market, which makes them more of a specialty item. This drives up the price.
Higher Profit Margins
Due to the demand for camper vans and the niche market, manufacturers can get away with pushing for higher profit margins. This may be a reason to consider doing a custom build on your own.
The Benefits of Camping in a Sprinter Van
Camping in a Sprinter van gives you the flexibility to move around easily. The van will fit in nearly any parking space or camping spot. They’re also an excellent option for getting off the beaten path, unlike if you had a 40-foot RV. Since the Mercedes-Benz chassis is diesel, you can also save some money on gas.
The Disadvantages of Using a Sprinter Van
Interior space is the main disadvantage of a Sprinter camper van. If compact and minimal aren’t appealing to you, van life might not be your thing. Camper vans offer little privacy if you’re traveling with another person. And if you need a full bath, you won’t find it here. Vans typically have a wet bath or none at all.
How Long Does a Sprinter Van Last?
A Sprinter van can easily go more than 300,000 miles. That’s thanks to its diesel engine. But you have to stay on top of the maintenance to keep it running well.
What Is the Most Reliable Sprinter Van?
Many people try to save a little money by finding a used Sprinter camper van. There are several fantastic years for the sprinter van, which makes choosing the most reliable one difficult. For example, 2004-2006 models get high mileage and cost relatively little.
Then there’s the 2010 Sprinter, which offers adaptability and reliability in spades. The 2012 Sprint will last you a long time, more than 300,000 miles, and earned four out of five stars for reliability from J.D. Power.
Are Camper Vans Worth the Money?
Camper vans can be worth the money if they’re the right fit for your travel style. A great way to save money on a Sprinter camper van is to have one custom-built or build it on your own. If you budget well, you could get a van that perfectly suits your travel style and needs, and that’s an investment that’s well worth the money you’ll spend.
A Sprinter camper van may be expensive, but it’s an investment in your lifestyle. It’s a great option for traveling with one to two people. Have you ever traveled in a Sprinter?
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