Short vs Long Wheelbase - Choosing Your Ideal Campervan
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
One of the most common questions we get asked is:
"Should I choose a short wheelbase or a long wheelbase campervan?"
The answer depends entirely on how you plan to travel.
The good news is that there is no wrong choice. Both layouts can make fantastic campervans and both offer all the essentials needed for comfortable adventures around Ireland and beyond.
If you're considering a VW Transporter, Ford Custom, Vivaro or Trafic conversion, here's what you need to know.
What Does SWB and LWB Mean?
SWB stands for Short Wheelbase.
LWB stands for Long Wheelbase.
Put simply, a long wheelbase van is slightly longer than the short wheelbase version of the same vehicle.
In medium-sized vans such as the VW Transporter, Ford Custom, Vivaro and Trafic, that usually gives you around 40-50cm (16-20 inches) of additional interior space.
It might not sound like much, but inside a campervan that extra room can make a surprisingly big difference to storage, seating and overall comfort.
The Benefits of a Short Wheelbase Campervan
Short wheelbase campervans are incredibly popular for good reason.
They are compact, easy to drive and feel very similar to driving a car.
Parking is often easier, particularly in towns, villages and tourist attractions where spaces can be tight.
They can also feel slightly more agile on narrow country roads and are often a little more economical on fuel.
For many people, especially first-time campervan owners, a SWB camper feels less intimidating.
If your holidays involve lots of driving, day trips and moving between locations, a SWB campervan could be the perfect fit.
The Benefits of a Long Wheelbase Campervan
A long wheelbase campervan offers one thing above all else.
Space.
The extra length allows for larger seating areas, more storage and a more spacious feeling interior.
That extra room becomes particularly noticeable on longer trips or during periods of bad weather when you spend more time inside the van.
Many people are surprised by how much difference those extra few inches make when it comes to everyday comfort.
You have more room for clothes, outdoor gear, food, bedding and all the little things that seem to accumulate during a trip.
For couples who travel regularly or spend extended periods away, the additional space can make life much more comfortable.
What About a Toilet?
One concern we hear quite often is whether a short wheelbase campervan has enough room for a toilet.
The answer is yes.
Both SWB and LWB campervans can comfortably accommodate a Porta Potti toilet stored neatly inside a cupboard.
You do not need a long wheelbase van simply to have a toilet.
In reality, the decision between SWB and LWB usually comes down to storage space and living space rather than bathroom facilities.
Which Feels Better to Drive?
This is where the short wheelbase has a slight advantage.
A SWB camper can feel more nimble and easier to park, particularly if you're using it as an everyday vehicle as well as a camper.
That said, many people worry unnecessarily about driving a LWB van.
The reality is that most drivers adjust very quickly.
After a few trips, the extra length often becomes second nature.
For many owners, the extra interior space is well worth the small compromise in manoeuvrability.
Think About How You Travel
When choosing between SWB and LWB, try to think about how you will actually use your camper.
If your typical trip involves:
Frequent driving
Visiting towns and cities
Day trips and weekends away
Using the camper as a daily vehicle
Then a SWB campervan could be ideal.
If your typical trip involves:
Longer holidays
Extended touring
Carrying bikes or outdoor equipment
Spending lots of time inside the van
Wanting as much storage as possible
Then a LWB campervan may suit you better.
Our Thoughts
Over the years we've built and sold both short and long wheelbase campervans and there are things we love about each.
However, as we continue to develop our new range of campervans, we will most likely focus primarily on long wheelbase models.
The reason is simple.
The extra space allows us to create layouts that feel more comfortable, offer better storage and provide a more spacious living environment without making the van dramatically larger to drive.
For many customers, that additional comfort is worth having.
There Is No Wrong Choice
The best campervan is the one that suits your lifestyle.
Some people value compact dimensions and easy parking.
Others prioritise living space and storage.
Both approaches are perfectly valid.
The key is being honest about how you plan to travel and choosing the van that fits your adventures.
Whether you choose a SWB or LWB campervan, you'll still have the same freedom to wake up beside the sea, explore Ireland's hidden corners and enjoy life at your own pace.
Check out our latest campervans for sale and see which size feels right for you.
