There are a lot of decisions when you decide you want to live your life nomadically. One of those decisions is the type of vehicle you’ll be traveling and living in. There are many different options to choose from, but I’m here to help you decide if a VW bus is the right fit for you!
Size
The VW bus – aka Volkswagen van, kombi, microbus, transporter, or Type 2 – is on the smaller size compared to many traditional options for those living in their vehicle. Probably the only smaller option would be living in a car, Subaru, truck, or SUV. Excluding the cab space where you’ll be sitting when you drive, the length of the rear is approximately 8 feet long by 5 feet wide. Because the engine lives in the rear, the space not taken up by the engine is just about 5 feet by 5 feet.
Height
The ceiling of the bus also has a shorter clearance than many other options – think RV, skoolie, or Sprinter. If you have a tin top (which means there’s no pop-top like the Westfalia), you cannot stand up in it. I’m 5’7″ tall and I can stand up and stoop, but for the most part, it’s easier to do things outside of the van or simply while kneeling.
If you do have a pop-top, there is room to stand in the center of the van when its raised. It also adds some extra storage and you can choose to sleep up there, too.
Reliability
Two things can be said about older vehicles. One, they have fewer electronic parts meaning if something goes wrong, its easier for a non-professional to fix it. Two, because of their age, you’re more likely to need repairs regularly than if you have a brand new vehicle. Volkswagen mechanics are also a breed of their own, so some things in Volkswagens specifically need to be tended to by a VW professional.
Amenities
Depending on the year, you’ll get different amenities (such as AC). After 1985, AC was standard in the VW bus but prior to that, you were air-cooled along with the engine. For air, you’ll need to open windows. There’s even side vents and front vents you can open. Heating can be a bit unreliable as well, considering the path the heated air needs to take from that rear of the bus all the way to the front vents. That to say, folks usually don’t rely on the heater in their older model VWs.
If we’re talking older models like LuLu, who is a 1973 VW bus, things like windows are also manual. Some didn’t come stock with radios or cigarette lighters, and overall they can be pretty plane Jane. They are also very loud.
Camper styles do exist (with the pop-top) and these usually have shelving installed in them. Many have water and sewage access as well.
Driveability
These are fun to drive. Not only are you instantly recognizable as fun and cool, but they really are built in a unique way. For starters, they are a rear-wheel drive vehicle, meaning they work great at pushing you over obstacles and not getting stuck. Common problems with rear-wheel drive vehicles, however, is when the back is lighter than the front. This causes issues like drift or low traction. Because earlier VWs had the engines in the back, it meant they had weight in the right places making them surprisingly good in dirt, gravel, sand, and mud! Here’s a short video of how fun this can be.
The Verdict
The thing that draws people to the VW bus isn’t luxury or speed (that’s for sure) – its their character! So above all else, if you want a van with character you’re on the right track. I know character isn’t everything when it comes to your living situation, so as always, take that into account.
Are you looking for a space that’s good for sleeping and relaxing out of the sun? A VW is a great choice! Are you looking for a vehicle that you can get in and go without a care in the world? A VW is probably not the best option for you.
BUT if you’re looking for a vehicle with great community, that’s all around fun to drive and play around with, and you’re in the nomadic life to spend life outside, then a VW bus might be the perfect option choice.
Have more questions about what its like to own a VW bus? Ask down below or find me on any of my socials! I’d be happy to chat.
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