Buying a VW T5 Campervan? Here's What You Really Need to Know

Buying a VW T5 Campervan? Here's What You Really Need to Know


Thinking about buying a VW T5 campervan? Welcome to the start of something amazing. Whether it’s a weekend surf trip to Devon or a pan-European escape, the VW T5 is the van-life icon that gets you there with serious style.


At Gatwick Campers, we don’t just sell dreams, we help you drive them. So here’s our straight-talking, adventure-inspiring guide for potential buyers eyeing up a T5.


What is the VW T5 Anyway?

The VW Transporter T5 is the fifth-generation model in the legendary Transporter line. Built between 2003 and 2015, it’s known for being robust, reliable, and downright fun to drive. It’s the Swiss army knife of vans, capable of being your weekday runaround and your weekend escape pod.


Why the T5 Still Shines Bright

Despite newer models hitting the roads, the T5 remains a top pick for campervan conversions. Why?

  • Classic VW Design: It looks as good outside your house as it does parked up beside a Cornish cliff.
  • Mod-Ready: Easy to customise—roof pop-tops, smart interiors, tech upgrades? Yes, please.
  • Solid Mechanics: The T5’s engines are known for their longevity when well-maintained.
  • Resale Value: Good conversions hold their value exceptionally well, especially with a little help from us (wink).


What to Look For When Buying One

Let’s cut through the fluff. If you're eyeing a T5, here’s what to check:

  1. Service History – Full service history? Chef’s kiss. Watch for regular oil changes and cam belt replacements.
  2. Mileage vs. Condition – High miles aren’t a dealbreaker if it’s been lovingly maintained. But signs of rust or neglect? Walk away.
  3. Conversion Quality – Not all conversions are created equal. Ours? Professionally crafted with safety and comfort in mind.
  4. Pop-Tops & Electrics – Check the roof mechanism and all onboard electrics. Flick every switch and button. (Then flick them again.)
  5. Ownership History – Multiple owners aren’t always bad, but fewer typically means better care.


How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Prices vary wildly depending on age, mileage, conversion quality, and spec. Expect something between £15,000 and £35,000. But remember, it’s not just a vehicle; it’s your ticket to freedom.


Want income from your investment? Chat to us about our Campervan Management Programme. We'll rent it out for you when you're not using it. Adventure + passive income = win-win.


Should You Buy or Let Us Build One for You?

You’ve got two roads:

  • Buy a ready-to-roll T5 from us or the market, with a conversion that suits your lifestyle.
  • Start with a base van and let us create your dream on wheels. Our custom builds balance practicality with personality.


Final Thought: The T5 Lifestyle

A VW T5 isn’t just a campervan. It’s sunrise coffees in the Highlands. It’s sleeping under stars in the South Downs. It’s music festivals, mountain hikes, beach BBQs—and making Monday mornings optional.

Thinking about buying one? Come have a look. Have a brew. Take a van for a spin.


Gatwick Campers is here to help you own your adventure.

By Michael Humphrey July 29, 2025
Staying with Your Camper & Dog
A camper van is parked on the side of the road near the ocean.
By John Courtney July 19, 2025
How Much Does it Cost to Hire a Campervan in the UK? Lets take a moment to explore the real cost of adventure.
Campervan Packing List
By John Courtney July 9, 2025
Campervan Packing List: Everything You Need to Ensure This One Is the Smoothest of Them All!
By Mark Williams July 3, 2025
Read by a Wild Viewpoint Bring a stack of paperbacks (or your Kindle), a cosy blanket and pick a dramatic overlook—cliffs, fields, or woodland nooks. Challenge yourself: no moving until the sunset or you finish a chapter (or the whole book!). Ask Locals for Their Secret Spots Skip the tourist traps, Chat to a friendly local and discover hidden waterfalls, secret trails, or that cosy country café known only to the regulars. Wild Swim Adventure Find a secluded river, pine‑fringed lake, or coastal cove and take the plunge. The shock, giggles and eventual triumph are pure magic. Afterwards, lounge on a rock and sip tea from your flask while the world wakes up. Create a Road‑Trip Sketchbook No skills needed, doodle road signs, clouds shaped like sheep, or the face of that grumpy village shopkeeper. Captions optional but highly encouraged! Stumble Upon a Local Market, Then Picnic Wander the stalls, grab cheeses, fresh bread, berries, or something unrecognisable and feast al fresco. Imperfect utensils? No problem crisps double as spoons here. Local‑Only Cook‑Off Challenge yourself to cook using only fresh, local ingredients, egg, wild herbs, mystery veg, maybe a local cheese. Whip it up over your camp stove or under the stars. Take a “Stay‑Put” Day Park by a lake or forest and simply don’t drive. Nap, journal, stretch, cloud‑watch, or turn your camper into a spa with a face mask. No world-saving required today. Scatter Little Kindness Notes Leave cheerful messages (“You’ve got this!”) tucked into menus, trail rocks or loo mirrors. You’ll never see the smiles you spark, but it’s a quiet joy to spread. Navigate the Old‑School Way Pull out a paper map, plot your route with coloured pens, doodle stops and surprises. No GPS? No problem, embrace the mystery. Postcard Time Capsule Buy cheesy postcards and write to your future self about this moment how free, silly, peaceful you feel. Don’t mail them… stash them away and revisit during a dreary Tuesday back home. Why Go Offline? Unplugging from Wi‑Fi helps you plug into real moments: breathtaking views, spontaneous conversations, and the simple joy of doing absolutely nothing without distraction. You'll return with stories, smiles, and perhaps just a tad of mud, exactly what makes a campervan trip unforgettable.
Show More