One of the first questions almost everyone asks before starting a campervan project is: “How much is this actually going to cost?” The honest answer is: it depends. The cost of a campervan conversion can range from a few thousand pounds for a basic DIY setup to a fully bespoke, professionally built camper that rivals a motorhome.

In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs involved, explain what affects the price, and show you what you actually get for your money, so you can decide what level of conversion is right for you.

1) Budget / DIY Conversion (£2,000 – £6,000)

This is the route many people take if they already have tools, time, and some practical skills.

Typically includes:

• Basic insulation and lining
• Simple bed platform
• Basic storage units
• Portable cooking equipment
• Simple electrics (leisure battery, a few lights, USB sockets)

Pros:

• Cheapest option
• Fully custom to your needs

Cons:

• Very time-consuming
• Finish quality depends on your skills
• No warranty or professional certification
• Lower resale value

2) Mid-Range Conversion (£6,000 – £12,000)

This is where most people start looking at a mix of DIY and professional help, or entry-level professional builds.

Typically includes:

• Proper insulation and ply lining
• Fixed bed or seat/bed system
• Kitchen unit with hob and sink
• Fridge
• Leisure battery, split charge, lighting
• Water system
• Basic storage units

Pros:

• Big step up in comfort and usability
• More reliable systems
• Better resale value

Cons:

• Still involves compromises
• Layout and materials may be limited

3) High-End / Professional Conversion (£12,000 – £25,000+)

This is where you get a true campervan that feels like a compact motorhome — and where professional converters really shine.

Typically includes:

• Full insulation and soundproofing
• Professionally built furniture
• Proper kitchen with fridge, hob and storage
• Full electrical system (leisure batteries, solar, inverter options)
• Proper water system
• Diesel heater
• High-quality finishes and upholstery
• Certified gas and electrical work

Pros:

• Beautiful finish
• Safe, compliant systems
• Designed to last
• Strong resale value
• No stress or learning curve

Cons:

• Higher upfront investment

2. What Actually Drives the Cost?

The Big Cost Factors

• Van size – Bigger vans cost more to convert
• Level of specification – Basic vs fully off-grid
• Electrics & heating – These are major cost areas
• Furniture quality – CNC-cut, lightweight furniture costs more than DIY ply
• Labour – Professional time is a big part of the cost
• Bespoke vs standard – Custom work always costs more

3. The Hidden Costs People Forget

• Extra tools (for DIY)
• Mistakes and re-doing work
• Upgrades later (which often cost more than doing it properly first time)
• Time off work or lost weekends
• Certification for gas and electrics

4. Why Professional Conversions Cost More (And Why They’re Worth It)

A professional campervan conversion isn’t just “materials plus labour”. You’re paying for:

• Proven designs that work
• Proper lightweight materials
• Safety-tested electrical and gas systems
• Experienced craftsmanship
• Warranty and aftercare
• A conversion that adds real value to your van

Most importantly: you get a camper that’s ready to use, safe, reliable, and built to last.

5. So… Is a Professional Conversion Good Value?

If you compare the cost of a quality campervan conversion to the price of a new motorhome, many people are surprised at how good the value actually is. A well-built campervan:

• Is easier to drive and park
• Is more versatile
• Holds its value extremely well
• Is built exactly to your needs

6. Choosing the Right Budget for You

Ask yourself:

• How will I actually use the van?
• Do I want weekends away or long trips?
• Do I want off-grid capability?
• Do I want something that lasts 2 years… or 10+ years?

Often, spending a bit more upfront saves a lot of money (and frustration) in the long run.

Conclusion

A campervan conversion can cost anywhere from a few thousand pounds to a serious investment — but what really matters is what you get for that money. The best conversions aren’t just cheaper or more expensive, they’re the ones that are well-designed, well-built, and perfectly suited to how you want to travel.

At Lakeland Camper Van Interiors, we pride ourselves on creating interiors that not only meet your practical needs but also feel like a home away from home.

At Lakeland Campervan Interiors, we design and build high-quality campervan conversions that are carefully engineered, beautifully finished, and built to last. We offer a range of thoughtfully designed packages as well as bespoke solutions — so you can choose the level of build that suits both your budget and your adventures.

If you’d like to see what’s possible, you can explore our conversion packages here:

👉 View our campervan conversion packages

If you’re not sure which option is right for you, we’re always happy to offer honest advice and talk you through the best route for your van and your budget.

Get in touch today and let’s start planning your perfect campervan.