There are many factors to take into consideration when you begin to shop for a new family vehicle, including seating capacity, fuel efficiency and whether you want to buy new or used. If you have a large family, frequently haul a lot of equipment, or everyone just prefers more legroom, a used conversion van makes a great choice. This is also an ideal option for self-employed contractors who need room for their tools and other work supplies.
Advantages of Used Travel Vans for Families
Most used conversion vans seat up to seven people. If you don’t need that much seating, you always have the option to fold down one of the rows of seats. There is plenty of room for car seats and booster seats as well. As your family grows and the kids become involved in sports activities, you still have room for them and their stuff. Compared to an SUV, which is not very roomy and consumes a lot of fuel, a conversion van makes a better choice for many families on a budget.
Conversion Vans Are Customizable
If you’re a road trip enthusiast, a frequent camper or an athlete, you can customize your van to meet your lifestyle. Some people go so far as to include a TV set and refrigerator or convert one of the rows of seats into a sofa bed. That is something you just can’t do with a typical passenger vehicle.
Things to Consider Before Making a Purchase
Even when you find a used conversion van that seems like an ideal fit for your family (and gets great gas mileage), you still need to consider several things before purchasing it. These include the need for a diesel engine for towing purposes and a large capacity for stow and go seating. By making a list of must-have and nice-to-have features before you start shopping, you’re more likely to come home with the perfect van for your family.
It’s also essential to know and budget for what it takes to maintain the vehicle after you own it, including such things as oil changes, regular tune-ups and emergency repairs. Be sure to ask for a complete vehicle history at the time of purchase so you are aware of any previous or existing issues with the van. Additionally, taking the van out for an extended test drive allows you to see how it handles in different driving situations.
Lastly, consider your budget and start planning for the used conversion van purchase. The ability to put down a sizable down payment reduces the amount you must pay monthly. It’s also a good idea to check your credit report to ensure that it doesn’t contain any errors that would prevent you from qualifying for the financing option that you want.
