The average camper van lasts for about 20 years and about 200,000 miles before you'll need to replace it. However, this number can vary depending on how well you maintain it and the types of terrain and environments you drive it through.

A campervan is typically a van that has been converted so you can sleep in it and cook in it as well as drive in it. A motorhome is a purpose-built home-from-home where comfort has been built in from the beginning. Typically it has a longer wheelbase which means it will be bigger than your average van.

The term RV is widely used in North America to describe both campervans and motorhomes. Unlike campervans and motorhomes, some RVs require towing. Fifth wheels, camper trailer or travel trailer, and pop-up campers will all require a pickup truck or tow vehicle.

Caravans are cheaper to buy and, once you're in situ, they are easier to live in and leave behind when you want to pop out. Campervans are more expensive, particularly the most well-known brands like the modern VWs, but they tend to hold their value so may represent a better investment.