Are you dreaming of a life in a home on wheels but unsure which type of rolling home is your perfect match? The options are endless—compact campers, fully kitted-out vans, or even tiny houses on wheels. Each comes with its charm, quirks, and compromises.
In this post, we’ll break down the pros and cons of 10 different rolling homes to help you find the one that’s just right for your big adventure!
1. The Campervan
A campervan is a compact van, often converted into a cozy camper, but you can also find ready-made models straight from the factory. Delivery vans are a popular choice for conversions, and countless sizes and layouts are available. A campervan offers freedom and simplicity but also comes with a few challenges.
Anna & Edwin and Hans & Marleen, from our Van Buddy Page, each have their own unique story about finding the perfect campervan and life on the road. Read their stories here.
Pros
- Freedom on four wheels: Travel anywhere, from charming villages to remote natural areas. Your home is always with you.
- Maneuverable and city-friendly: Campervans are smaller than large RVs, making them easy to park and drive, even on narrow streets.
- Tailored to you: Campervans are easy to customise and personalize to suit your needs and preferences.
- Affordable adventure: Campervans are often cheaper to buy and run than larger RVs or tiny houses. Plus, you’ll save on accommodation costs.
- Embrace minimalism: The limited space teaches you to live with less and shows you how enjoyable a simple life can be.
Cons
- Small but cozy: The limited space can feel tight, especially if you’re travelling with others. And a separate bathroom or kitchen? Often not included.
- Less luxury: Compared to larger RVs, you’ll have less storage, smaller sleeping areas, and basic amenities.
- Reliant on facilities: Without a built-in bathroom or kitchen, you’ll often depend on campsites or public facilities.
- Winter woes: Campervans are typically less insulated, making them less comfortable for colder months.
- Adjusting to small living: Living in a small space requires smart design and efficient use of what you have.
Freedom, Simplicity, and Adventure
Imagine waking up to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, your campervan door framing a perfect sunrise. With a van conversion guide or kit, and a portable solar panel like the Jackery SolarSaga, you can turn your vehicle into a tiny home on wheels, ready for endless adventures. Campervans are the epitome of freedom, offering flexibility and compact living with al
2. The Electric Camper
The electric camper is the latest trend in the world of mobile living. Combining the freedom of travel with the eco-friendliness of electric technology, these campers run on an electric motor instead of a traditional combustion engine, offering lower emissions and often lower operational costs. But, like any new technology, there are both perks and challenges to consider.
Check out the Green Travel Journal, where a Dutch couple has transformed an electric Fiat Ducato into a camper! Follow their journey on travelling in an electric campervan.
Pros
- Eco-Friendly: The biggest advantage is the reduced CO2 emissions. This makes electric campers perfect for those who want to travel freely but still minimize their environmental impact.
- Lower Operating Costs: Electric vehicles tend to have lower maintenance costs. No expensive fuel bills, fewer motor maintenance needs, and lower costs for oil and fluids.
- Quiet Ride: Electric campers run much quieter than gas-powered vehicles, providing a peaceful and serene driving experience.
- Tax Benefits & Subsidies: In many countries, there are tax breaks, subsidies, or toll discounts for electric vehicles, helping to offset the initial purchase price.
- Future-Proof: As the world shifts towards sustainability, an electric camper is a step toward the future of travel and mobile living.
Cons
- Limited Range: One of the main downsides is the range. Electric vehicles still can’t travel as far as gas-powered ones, and this can be limiting for long trips, especially in areas with sparse charging stations.
- Charging Infrastructure: While charging networks are improving, it’s not always easy to quickly recharge your camper, particularly in remote areas.
- Higher Upfront Cost: Electric campers generally have a higher purchase price compared to traditional campers, which may be a barrier for those looking for a more budget-friendly option.
- Storage Limitations: Due to the battery system, there’s often less room for storage or cargo. This could be tricky if you want to bring a lot of gear along.
- Longer Charging Time: Charging takes longer than filling up a gas tank, which can slow down your travel time, especially if you don’t have access to fast-charging stations.
- Limited Models & Options: The market for electric campers is still in its early stages, so there are fewer models to choose from compared to traditional campers. However, the options are growing quickly.
A home on wheels with a green footprint
If sustainability is your jam, an electric camper could be the way to go. Picture cruising through national parks with zero emissions, powered by an EV charger like the Juice Booster 2 and a solar battery bank from Goal Zero. Electric campers combine modern technology with van life, letting you explore guilt-free while staying connected to nature.
3. The Caravan
A caravan is essentially a mini home on wheels that you can tow with your car. It usually comes equipped with all the essentials for comfortable living, from a bed to a kitchen. But what makes the caravan such an appealing option (or not)?
Pros
- Your home travels with you: Whether you want to stay on a cozy campsite or explore a remote natural spot, you can take your entire home along. It doesn’t get much more flexible than that!
- Affordable option: Caravans are often cheaper to purchase than campers or tiny houses. Plus, you’ll save significantly on fixed costs like rent or a mortgage.
- Room for comfort: Caravans usually offer more living space than a campervan. Many models feature separate sleeping, dining, and cooking areas, making them ideal for extended stays.
- Flexible travel: You can leave your caravan at a campsite and take your car out for a day trip or errands. Perfect for exploring without hauling everything around!
- Fully equipped: With a built-in kitchen, bathroom, and plenty of storage, a caravan is ideal for those who want to settle in one place for a while.
Cons
- Tricky on the road: Towing a caravan can be challenging, especially on narrow or winding roads. It takes some experience and can sometimes be stressful.
- You’ll need a strong tow vehicle: A powerful car is essential, which adds to costs for purchase and maintenance.
- Not ideal for extreme weather: Most caravans aren’t well-insulated, making it harder to stay comfortable in very hot or cold conditions.
- Reliant on campsites: Wild camping is often not an option with a caravan, as you’ll need suitable parking spots or campsites with facilities.
- Takes time to set up: Once you arrive, it takes time to stabilize the caravan and connect to utilities. It’s not as quick and simple as parking a campervan.
- Less luxurious: While well-equipped, caravans often lack the luxury of a house or larger motorhomes.
The Caravan Wrap-Up
For those who want a home base on wheels, caravans are a classic choice. With towing equipment from CURT and a Fiamma awning, you can set up camp almost anywhere. Caravans provide a cozy living space, perfect for travellers who enjoy parking up and settling in for a while.
4. School Bus
A school bus house on wheels is exactly what it sounds like: a school bus transformed into a mobile home. Many people choose to buy old-school buses, renovate them, and turn them into comfortable and functional living spaces. This type of home on wheels is often referred to as a “skoolie” (derived from the word “schoolie” for school bus).
Pros
- Space galore: School buses offer way more space than smaller campers or vans, making them perfect for long trips or full-time road living.
- Total freedom: You can travel anywhere, from remote nature spots to charming little towns, without being tied to a fixed address.
- Affordable (ish): Buying a used school bus is usually cheaper than other vehicles like motorhomes, and converting it can be more budget-friendly than converting a smaller van.
- Customizable: School buses have a large interior, so you can design the layout however you want, giving you plenty of room to make it your own.
- Plenty of storage: Thanks to the size, you can bring loads of stuff with you, and there’s usually enough storage for your personal belongings and camping gear.
- Self-sufficient living: You can convert the bus into a fully self-sufficient home on wheels with a kitchen, bathroom, sleeping areas, and more, allowing for true independence on the road.
Cons
- Maintenance headaches: Since many school buses are old, they can require a lot of upkeep, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
- Fuel-guzzler: Due to their size and weight, school buses consume a lot more fuel than smaller vehicles like campers or vans.
- Parking struggles: Finding parking for a school bus can be tricky, especially in cities or crowded parking lots. You might need special permits in certain places.
- Tough to navigate: The size of the bus makes it harder to drive on narrow or winding roads, and it’s a challenge to park in smaller areas or campgrounds.
- Off-road limitations: A school bus is less suitable for rugged terrain or dirt roads, so it’s not the best option if you’re seeking a truly adventurous off-the-beaten-path experience.
- Time-consuming conversion: Turning a school bus into a fully functional home requires a lot of planning and can take a long time, especially if you’re doing the renovations yourself.
- Driver’s license: Depending on the size of the bus, you may need a special driver’s license, which can be costly and tricky to manage
A School Bus: Is It Worth It?
Turning a school bus into a home is a labour of love, but with the right tools, it’s totally doable. Start with a bus conversion kit or guide, add Havelock Wool or Armaflex insulation, and install a Maxxair fan for ventilation. Skoolies offer plenty of space and endless opportunities for personalization.
5. The Motorhome
A larger camper with a fully integrated living space, like a Hymer. We’ve seen the most unique motorhomes on the road, including one with a built-in parking spot for a small car. Seriously, anything is possible!
Pros
- All-in-One: A motorhome combines transport and accommodation, so your home on wheels is always with you. No hassle of hooking up a caravan or constantly packing and unpacking.
- Home Comforts on the Go: Modern motorhomes often come with full amenities like a kitchen, bathroom, comfortable sleeping spaces, and air conditioning. Perfect for longer trips!
- Freedom to Stop Anywhere: From charming villages to peaceful nature spots, you’re not tied down to hotels or campgrounds.
- Off-Grid Camping: With built-in water and electricity, you can easily go off the grid for a few days.
- Family-Friendly: Motorhomes are spacious enough for families, offering multiple sleeping areas and a cozy living space.
Cons
- Expensive Investment: Motorhomes are pricey to buy, and they require regular maintenance. It’s a significant upfront cost.
- Fuel Guzzler: Due to their size and weight, motorhomes burn more fuel than regular cars.
- Tricky Parking: Parking in cities or navigating narrow roads and sharp turns can be a real challenge with a large vehicle.
- City Limitations: Not all cities are motorhome-friendly. You can’t always park just anywhere, and certain areas have restrictions on large vehicles.
- Packing Up to Explore: Once you’re settled at a campsite, it’s less convenient to go on short trips. You’ll need to pack everything up before hitting the road again.
- Not Ideal for Off-Roading: While you can explore a lot with a motorhome, it’s not the best choice for adventurous, off-road routes.
Road Trip Dream or Challenge?
Motorhomes are the all-in-one travel solution, perfect for those who want comfort on the go. Equip yours with a Garmin RV GPS and a Camco water filtration system to make road life even smoother. With built-in kitchens, bathrooms, and sleeping areas, motorhomes are a great choice for longer journeys.
6. Tiny House on Wheels
A tiny house is a compact and cleverly designed home ranging from 15 to 50 square meters. With multifunctional furniture and smart storage solutions, every inch is used efficiently. Many tiny houses are built sustainably and can function off-grid, making them self-sufficient in energy and water. Perfect for those who want to live smaller, greener, and more consciously!
Pros
- More sustainable & better insulated – Built with durable materials and superior insulation, making it comfortable in all seasons.
- Greater living comfort – Tiny houses feel like real homes with higher ceilings, fixed furniture, and often a full kitchen and bathroom.
- More living space – Compared to a camper or caravan, a tiny house typically offers more room and storage options.
- Stable & suitable for permanent living – Designed for long-term stays, whereas campers and caravans are primarily meant for travel or temporary stays.
Cons
- Less mobile – Some tiny houses can be moved, but they’re far less flexible than a camper or caravan, which you can easily take on the road.
- Permits & regulations – Tiny houses may require permits and aren’t always allowed in all locations, while campers and caravans can usually be parked more easily.
- Higher purchase cost – Tiny houses are often more expensive than campers or caravans, especially when custom-built.
- Not travel-ready – With a camper or caravan, you can hit the road immediately, whereas a tiny house is typically set up in a fixed location.
Big Living in Tiny Homes!
If you love the idea of downsizing but still want a house-like feel, a tiny house on wheels might be your dream. Add a Nature’s Head composting toilet and maximize space with a RecPro fold-down table. Tiny homes offer charm, sustainability, and a more stationary lifestyle.
7. Truck Camper
A truck camper is a versatile, compact living unit that sits in the bed of a pickup truck, transforming it into a cozy home on wheels. Despite its small size, it offers all the essentials— a comfortable bed, a kitchenette for cooking on the go, and sometimes even a bathroom. Perfect for adventure seekers, it provides the freedom to explore without the need for towing or a large RV!
Flo, our Van Buddy, shares his story about life in his Soviet-Polish Off-road 6×6 Star here and the wild adventures he experiences with his truck!
Pros
- Go anywhere, anytime – Narrow mountain roads, rugged off-road trails, or a cozy beach spot? A truck camper takes you wherever you want to go!
- Small but fully equipped – Despite its compact size, you often have everything you need: a bed, a kitchen, and sometimes even a bathroom.
- Two-in-one vehicle: You can detach the camper unit and use the truck separately. This is perfect if you’re staying somewhere longer and want to explore the area freely.
- Cheaper than a full-size RV – Lower costs for purchase, maintenance, and often better fuel efficiency. More money left for fun adventures!
Cons
- Limited space – It’s cozy, but with multiple people, it can feel a bit cramped.
- Higher centre of gravity – The added weight on the truck can make it less stable on winding or bumpy roads.
- Less storage space – Pack light! There’s less room compared to a full-size RV.
- Not always a bathroom – Some models don’t include a built-in shower or toilet, so you’ll need to plan for campgrounds or rest stops.
- Attaching and detaching can be tricky – While you can remove the camper unit, it’s not always a quick or easy task.
Adventure anytime, anywhere
For off-road explorers, truck campers are the ultimate adventure rig. Pair your setup with a Thule roof rack, and a Bluetti power station for total independence. These compact homes fit right in the bed of your truck, ready to take you anywhere.
8. Slide on Caravan
A slide-on camper is the perfect blend of freedom and comfort! It’s a detachable camper unit that sits on the bed of a pickup truck, giving you the full camper experience without being tied to one vehicle. You can easily remove the unit and use the truck separately. Despite its compact size, it often includes everything you need: a bed, a kitchen, and sometimes even a bathroom. Perfect for adventurers who love flexibility and aren’t afraid to go off-road!
Pros
- Flexibility & Detachable Unit – Unlike a motorhome, you can remove the camper and use the truck separately, giving you more travel options.
- Compact Yet Functional – Despite its small size, most slide-on campers include a bed, kitchen, and sometimes even a bathroom.
- Better Maneuverability – Easier to drive, park, and navigate compared to a large RV, especially in cities or on narrow roads.
- More Affordable Than an RV – Generally cheaper to buy and maintain, making it a budget-friendly alternative to a full-size motorhome.
- Off-Road Capabilities – Mounted on a pickup truck, a slide-on camper can handle rough terrain, making it great for adventurous travellers.
Cons
- Limited Living Space – While well-equipped, the compact design can feel cramped, especially for multiple travellers.
- Less Storage – Packing light is essential since there’s less room for gear compared to a traditional RV.
- Higher Center of Gravity – The extra weight on the truck can affect stability, particularly on winding or uneven roads.
- No Easy Access to the Cab – Unlike a motorhome, you have to step outside to move between the camper and the driver’s seat.
- Setup & Removal Can Be Tricky – While detachable, loading and unloading the camper isn’t always quick or simple.
Explore with ease
Slide-on caravans offer versatility without committing to a full camper build. With a good offroad kit, a Boxio composting toilet, and a Victron solar kit, you can easily slide your home onto your vehicle when adventure calls — and remove it when you’re back to everyday life.
9. Car
Travelling in a car is the ultimate adventure for spontaneous souls! It lets you explore at your own pace, with no set plans or reservations. Just pull over at a scenic spot, stretch out, and sleep under the stars (or in the cozy comfort of your car). It’s budget-friendly and flexible but can get cramped and uncomfortable for long nights. Perfect for road trips or short getaways!
Patas Travelling turned their car into a cozy home on wheels and shared their experiences of life on the road here.
Pros
- Budget-Friendly – No need for expensive rentals or fuel-heavy motorhomes; just your car and a few essentials.
- Ultimate Flexibility – Stop anywhere, explore spontaneous spots, and sleep under the stars—perfect for adventurers.
- Easy to Park – Cars are much easier to park in tight spots or on the side of the road than larger vehicles.
- Fuel-Efficient – Cars are generally more fuel-efficient than motorhomes or caravans, saving you money on long trips.
Cons
- Limited Space – Sleeping in a car can be cramped, especially for more than one person. Comfort and storage are limited.
- No Built-In Facilities – You’ll miss out on amenities like a full kitchen, bathroom, or proper bed.
- Weather Challenges – Sleeping in your car can be uncomfortable in extreme temperatures, especially without proper ventilation.
- Less Security – A car doesn’t offer the same level of protection or privacy as a fully enclosed camper or caravan.
Road Trips Made Simple
If simplicity is what you’re after, car camping is an easy way to get outdoors. Grab a Luno Life car air mattress, a Dometic CFX3 portable fridge, and a Jetboil stove, and you’ve got everything you need for a weekend in nature. Car camping is perfect for spontaneous getaways and minimalist adventurers.
10. Folding Camper
A folding camper is the perfect blend of a tent and a caravan. On the road, it’s a compact trailer, but once you reach the campsite, it unfolds into a surprisingly spacious sleeping area. You get the camping vibe with extra comfort and storage. It’s lightweight, fuel-efficient, and easy to tow, though setting it up takes some effort. Ideal for adventurous campers who love flexibility on the go!
Pros
- Lightweight & Fuel-Efficient – Easier to tow than a caravan, making it more fuel-efficient and suitable for most vehicles.
- Compact on the Road, Spacious When Set Up – Small while driving, but unfolds into a surprisingly roomy living space.
- More Comfortable Than a Tent – Offers real beds, better insulation, and sometimes even a small kitchen or storage area.
- Lower Cost Than a Caravan – More affordable to buy and maintain compared to a full-size caravan or motorhome.
- Closer to Nature – With canvas walls and large openings, you get the camping experience while still enjoying some extra convenience.
Cons
- Takes Time to Set Up & Pack Down – Unlike a caravan, you’ll need to spend time unfolding and assembling it before you can relax.
- Less Protection Against Weather – While sturdier than a tent, it’s still not as weatherproof as a caravan in heavy rain or strong winds.
- Limited Insulation – Can get chilly at night and warm during the day, depending on the season.
- Less Secure Than a Hard-Shell Caravan – Canvas walls offer less security against theft or wildlife compared to solid structures.
- Requires Storage Space at Home – Even though it folds down, you’ll still need a place to store it when not in use.
Fold, Camp, Explore!
For travelers who want flexibility and easy storage, folding campers are a fantastic option. Pick a sturdy option and don’t forget essentials like the Thule levelling ramps, a Coleman camp stove, and a popup shelter from Gazelle for extra living space. Folding campers are lightweight, easy to tow, and perfect for spontaneous road trips.
Adventure Awaits: Choose Your Home on Wheels!
And there you have it—a comprehensive guide to finding your perfect home on wheels! Whether you’re drawn to the simplicity of a campervan, the comfort of a motorhome, or the adventurous spirit of a school bus, there’s a travel option for every kind of explorer. Remember, each choice comes with its own pros and cons, so it’s all about balancing your budget, needs, and desired lifestyle.
So, what’s your ideal road trip setup? Ready to hit the road or still weighing your options? Whatever you choose, the adventure of a lifetime awaits—on wheels! Happy travels!
