Is campervanning still worth it in 2026?
The short answer-YES

Is Campervanning Still Worth It in 2026? A Devon Perspective
If you’re based in Devon or the South West and wondering whether campervanning is still worth it in 2026, you’re asking the right question at the right time.
Because here’s the reality:
👉 Campervanning isn’t slowing down—it’s becoming a lifestyle.
And in a region like Devon, it arguably makes more sense than anywhere else in the UK.
🚐 Why Campervanning Works So Well in Devon
Living in Devon gives you something most of the UK doesn’t:
- Two coastlines (North & South)
- Dartmoor on your doorstep
- Endless weekend escape routes
- Mild climate compared to the rest of the UK
That means a campervan isn’t just for holidays—it becomes something you can use all year round.
A quick Friday finish can turn into:
- A sunset at Saunton Sands
- A night on Dartmoor
- A spontaneous trip down to Cornwall
No airports. No packing stress. No rigid plans.
📈 Is Campervan Demand Still Growing in 2026?
Yes—and locally, it’s very noticeable.
Across the UK:
- Campervan interest has surged significantly in recent years
- The shift toward UK travel is still strong
- More people are investing in “experience-led” lifestyles
But in the South West specifically, demand is even stronger.
Why?
Because people here can actually use their vans regularly—not just twice a year.
🔧 Why More Devon Buyers Are Choosing Conversions
In 2026, fewer people are buying off-the-shelf campervans.
Instead, they’re choosing custom campervan conversions—and for good reason.
1. Built Around Your Lifestyle
A factory campervan is designed for everyone.
A conversion is designed for you.
Whether you:
- Surf
- Hike Dartmoor
- Travel with kids or dogs
- Want off-grid capability
A custom build makes a massive difference in how often you actually use the van.
2. Better Value for Money
A professionally converted van can:
- Cost less than a new factory camper
- Hold value well
- Be upgraded over time
For many Devon buyers, it’s the smarter long-term move.
3. Everyday Usability
One of the biggest trends in 2026 is dual-purpose vans.
People want:
- A van they can drive daily
- That turns into a weekend escape in minutes
That’s where smart design matters.
⚠️ What’s Changed in 2026?
It’s not all perfect—and it’s worth being honest about it.
- Some coastal areas have tighter overnight restrictions
- Popular spots get busier in peak season
- Poorly designed vans often don’t get used as much as expected
But here’s the key insight:
👉 The experience you have comes down to the quality of your conversion.
A well-thought-out layout, proper electrics, and practical storage make all the difference.
💡 Is It Still Worth It?
In a place like Devon?
Absolutely.
If anything, it’s one of the best regions in the UK to own a campervan because:
- You’ll actually use it regularly
- You don’t need long trips to justify it
- It fits naturally into your lifestyle
🚐 Why Choose Crafty Otter Campers (Honiton, Devon)
At Crafty Otter Campers, we specialise in purpose build conversions in Devon, built for real use—not just aesthetics.
Based in Honiton, we work with customers across:
- Exeter
- East Devon
- The wider South West and often people are willing to travel much further for a Crafty Otter Campers build.
We focus on:
- Clean, functional layouts
- Practical storage solutions
- Vans that feel great to live in—not just look at
👉 Thinking About a Campervan Conversion in Devon?
If you’re:
- Considering converting your own van, big or small
- Looking to buy a ready-built VW T6
- Or just exploring ideas
We’re happy to chat through options and give honest advice.
✔ No pressure
✔ No jargon
✔ Just practical guidance
🔗 Start Here
Visit www.craftyottercampers.com to:
- See recent builds
- Get ideas for your own van
- Book a consultation
Or drop us a message to talk through your plans.










