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⚖️ Honest Comparison

VAN vs CAMPER
vs SKOOLIE

Each has real tradeoffs. This comparison is designed to help you pick the right rig — not the most popular one on Instagram.

🚐
Most Popular

Cargo Van

$12–32K
Total (vehicle + build)
Easiest to park anywhere
True stealth — looks normal
Best gas mileage of the three
Lowest total entry cost
Limited space (no standing room in most)
No separate bedroom
Space
4/10
Stealth
10/10
Build Ease
8/10
Value
9/10
Van Build Guide →
🏕

Camper Van / RV

$25–90K
Total (purchase + mods)
Pre-built — less DIY required
Higher resale value (usually)
Sometimes has full bath/shower
Expensive — premium for convenience
Often poor quality factory build
Not stealth at all
Space
6/10
Stealth
2/10
Build Ease
9/10
Value
4/10
Learn More →
🚌

Skoolie (School Bus)

$15–55K
Total (vehicle + build)
Maximum living space (250+ sq ft)
Standing height throughout
Separate rooms possible
Cheapest vehicle purchase
Hard to park in cities
Not stealth — at all
Longest, most complex build
Space
10/10
Stealth
1/10
Build Ease
3/10
Value
7/10
Skoolie Guide →
Full Breakdown

HEAD TO HEAD

Feature 🚐 Cargo Van 🏕 Camper/RV 🚌 Skoolie
Vehicle Cost $8K–$22K $18K–$70K $4K–$12K
Build Cost $3K–$10K $1K–$5K (mods) $8K–$22K
Total Entry Cost $12K–$32K $20K–$75K $13K–$34K
Living Space 60–80 sq ft 90–150 sq ft 200–300 sq ft
Standing Height Rarely (high roof only) Sometimes Always
Stealth Camping Excellent Poor None
Parking Ease Excellent Fair Difficult
Fuel Economy 15–22 MPG 10–15 MPG 6–12 MPG
Build Time 2–6 months Minimal (buy ready) 6–18 months
DIY Difficulty Moderate Low (mods only) High
Bathroom Possible Composting/cassette Full bath often Full bath possible
Best For Solo/couples, stealth, first build Families, less DIY Families, maximalists, long-term
Quick Answer

WHICH IS RIGHT
FOR YOU?

🚐 Get a Van If... You're new to conversions, travel solo or as a couple, want to park in cities, or need stealth. It's the most versatile and forgiving option.
🏕 Get a Camper If... You hate DIY, want to be on the road in weeks instead of months, or you're traveling with kids and need the space and amenities immediately.
🚌 Get a Skoolie If... You want maximum space, you have 6–12+ months for a build, you're handy or willing to learn, and you don't need to park in tight urban spaces.

MADE YOUR CHOICE?
START BUILDING.

Read the guide that matches your rig and start with a real plan.

Solar Guide → Budget Guide → Skoolie Guide →