Language 简体中文 繁體中文 English (United States) English (United Kingdom) Español latinoamericano Español de España Português do Brasil Português de Portugal Français de France Français canadien Deutsch Italiano Nederlands 日本語 한국어 Русский العربية ไทย Tiếng Việt Bahasa Indonesia Polski Türkçe
RV

European campervan (Womo / Kastenwagen)

Compact, bus-legal, park almost anywhere.

In short

The European campervan is a panel van converted for living: a bed, a galley, fresh and waste water, and often a fixed toilet. Typical length 4.5–6 m and weight 2,500–3,500 kg, driven on a normal category B licence in the EU.

Typical valueNotes
Length4.5–6 m
Weight2,500–3,500 kg
LicenceCategory B in the EU, subject to weight limits
HeightUsually 2.1–2.6 m

What these vehicles look like

Strengths

  • Drives on a normal licence
  • Fits cities
  • Cheap to run

Limitations

  • Few amenities
  • Small water tank
  • Cramped when three or more travel

Best for

European touringCouplesCity-based travel

What it is

This is Europe's answer to the small motorhome, and it works because of the infrastructure: low-emission zones, narrow old-town streets, and campsites integrated into villages. A 5 m campervan can be parked outside a Roman wall and be entirely fine.

Why people choose it

Confirm the licence first. In the EU a category B licence covers a vehicle up to 3,500 kg and 8 passengers. If the real operating weight exceeds that, you need a heavier class. Many campervans are registered just under 3,500 kg, which is a legal limit rather than a coincidence.

What to check before you buy

The weak points are water capacity and insulation. A European campervan carries 40–90 L of fresh water, so plan on paid hookups for longer stays, and check the insulation if you intend to travel in winter.

Also calledWomo · Camperván (ES)