Campervans in Spain.

Campervans and motorhomes are increasing in popularity all over the world. Being used for weekend getaways, month-long tours, and even as a permanent residence. In Spain, campervans and motorhomes are not welcomed with open arms in most places we visit at the best of times. For reasons I still don’t understand. Usually being frowned upon and ordered to quickly move on. With laws in place to prevent us from freely enjoying the outdoors and traveling where ever to road takes us. This certainly doesn’t push us away from our love of campervans and camping. Spain has an ever-growing #vanlife culture with a growing network of sites and designated areas for our free use. Yet the majority of campervans or motor homes that can be found exploring the countless number of corners of paradise found all over Spain. Whether it’s in the mountains, countryside or on the coast. They are usually generic white showroom bought campers. With the occasional vintage classic being found around coastal areas that are popular with surfers. Why? You may ask. Strict vehicle safety rules make modifying cars and vans very restrictive, requiring a multitude of certificates and paid taxes for each modification. This makes DIY self-built campers very hard to find. A great shame. With other places around the world seeing an ever-growing culture and following of self-built campers. People of all skill levels creating unique and wonderful creations. Going as far as living in them permanently.
There is a workaround that many prospective van lifers use for creating their own DIY build without having to go through the headache of navigating the Spanish legal and administration system, which can be extremely time-consuming and costly. That would be removable camping modules. And they are becoming rather popular with companies making units that can be bought off the shelf. Basically, a kitchen unit that can be installed and removed easily into any van regardless of the make or model. That would be a blog post on its own for the future. This is represented in the increasing demand for multi-purpose vans from the likes of Renault, Mercedes, and Volkswagen. The size, drivability, and user-friendliness of these vans along with a removable kitchen module it is easy to see why they have become popular. Freedom without the negative stigma that goes with the larger more conventional camper.
The most desired choice for those who don’t want to have a large motorhome, myself included, is a Volkswagen California. Its relatively small size makes it easy to navigate the small streets of typical Spanish villages. Small enough to fit into most parking spaces. If you didn’t know already, parking spaces in Spain are notoriously small, barely big enough for a typical family car. Combine this with a pop roof, space to sleep 4, well-designed storage spaces, and a full kitchen it is easy to see why it’s so sought after. Freedom to travel and explore the beauty of Spain with added home comforts that a campervan gives.