Is a Kombi campervan conversion right for you?

If you’re new to campervans, you might be wondering which will be the best model for you. There are long or short wheel bases, and a huge choice when it comes to personalisation.

In this blog we’ll take you through Kombi conversions – what they are and how they work

What is a Kombi conversion?

The word “Kombi” is derived from the German word “Kombinationskraftwagen” otherwise known as a combination motor vehicle.

Kombi campervan conversions refer to transforming a Volkswagen Kombi (also known as a VW Bus, Transporter, or Microbus) into a campervan. They’re really popular and we really like them.

In 2025, there has been a huge increase in the demand for Kombi conversions. This option has grown in popularity with van owners who are looking for more flexibility for their vehicle.

A Kombi can provide both a working vehicle for a trades person, and double up as a holiday van for the weekends. This means they get proper use and aren’t left sitting around. It makes a campervan well worth the investment.

What do most people install in their Kombi conversions?

Everyone is different, the beauty of a Kombi is that is can (if you want to to) be half work, half leisure. Some of our customers need an exclusively functional work van (like dog grooming or mechanics). Others just want a straight up family van that will have of your usual creature comforts to make it possible to go absolutely anywhere.

That typically means kitchens, toilet pods, beds and head room.

• Fold-out beds or rock-and-roll beds
• Compact kitchen units (with a sink, stove, and sometimes a fridge)
• Lighting and Wifi
• Storage cabinets and drawers
• Pop-top or high-top roofs for extra headroom
• Dining tables that can be stowed away
• Washable flooring
• And loads more

How can I make My Kombi dual purpose?

Kombis capable of carrying both people and tools by their very nature. Storage cupboards, drawers and shelving can all be made to measure. On top of that, kitchens and flexible seating arrangements tend to allow for dual purpose activities and practical space.

For example – removable and foldable seating options are very popular. This makes it much easier to carry both passengers, work equipment or leisure gear like camping equipment, paddle boards and child or pet paraphernalia comfortably.

Are additional campervan seatbelts safe?

Our Kombi conversions include seat fitting services with seatbelts that meet safety standards and will pass a U.K. MOT.  

This addition of rear seating allows you to carry more passengers legally and securely, making it ideal for family trips, sports teams, or transporting staff. Its amazing how many uses people dream up for their Kombis.

Do Kombi conversions have much storage space?

Unlike fully converting your van into a campervan or day van, Kombi conversions are designed to keep a good portion of your rear load area intact.

You still have the practicality of a van, but with the bonus of extra seats when you need them.  

We often create a bulk head behind the newly installed seating to offer our customers the opportunity to have a secure boot area for those expensive work tools or sports equipment. This works really well for lots of our customers, but if you need something a little different, give us a call.

Will a Kombi keep up with “adventure” road trips?

Yes. For our more adventurous customers, a Kombi conversion is the perfect option between a standard commercial vehicle and a campervan.

A Kombi will allow you to carry bikes, surfboards, or camping gear while also having space for mates, kids or dogs. In this instance we recommend upgrading the flooring to be washable… 🙂

Will a Kombi campervan conversion depreciate in value?

As things currently stand, Kombi van conversions add value to the vehicle, and many of the vans we work on retain that value for much longer than your average car or truck.

Factor fitted Kombis case be jolly expensive. However the joy of kitting out your own base van, is not just saving a few quid but also the massive range of choice. We can install pretty much anything you want. The whole team love a challenge and you are welcome to drop in during office hours to see them at work in real-time.

Do I have to register a reclassification with the DVLA?

Yes, with all Kombi conversions, your van will need to undergo reclassification with the DVLA. We are happy to do this for you as part of the service, and ensure the log book states the new number of legal seating configuration.

Is it possible to customise your current van?

The best thing to do, is pop in and have a chat with someone in the office. Everyone on the team are camper experts and can guide you with options, ideas and show you previous jobs we have worked on for inspiration.

Here’s just a few of the options available to you.

Fabric:

• Custom built seating, benches and upholstery (we have in house upholsterers)
• Leatherette fabrics
• Van logos
• Rock and roll beds
• Insulation, deadening and interior fabrics
• Curtains and blinds

Tech

• Heaters
• Wifi
• TVs
• Lighting

Creature comforts

• Pop tops
• Kitchen hobs and units
• Fridge freezers
• Dog crates
• Awnings
• Blackout windows

And a heck of a lot more! If you want to talk about your van, get in touch today – we would love to hear from you.

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