More people than ever are turning to conversion vans for both living and travel. In fact, since the pandemic began, conversion vans have become so popular that there’s now a shortage of vans available for sale.
If you’re interested in buying a conversion van and getting in on the “van life movement,” read on to learn how the pandemic may impact your options.
What is the van life movement?
The van life movement began as a community of people interested in a minimalistic, sustainable way of living, who decided to leave traditional homes and apartments behind and live life on the road.
For many years now, people have been converting vans and using them for camping and everyday living, but when the pandemic hit, this trend really seemed to explode. In fact, on Instagram, the #vanlife hashtag currently has more than 13 million posts, and dealers across the country have reported that sales are up as high as 170 percent from pre-pandemic levels.
When John Carey, owner and operator of Classic Vans, America’s #1 conversion and camper van dealer, was asked if he had also seen an increase in van orders since the start of the pandemic, he responded with a resounding, “Yes, we have seen that.”
What’s causing the long wait times for conversion vans?
Unfortunately, this sudden increase in demand has caused a nationwide shortage of conversion and camper vans. Manufacturers simply can’t keep up with the current demand.
According to Gabrielle Carey at Classic Vans, “The past few years, we haven’t been able to get new conversion vans like we used to. Pricing has also gone up with new vans.”
To avoid long wait lists, more people than ever are making the decision to convert the vans they already own. But, now, a new problem is emerging: Van owners are finding it increasingly difficult to get the necessary supplies they need to convert their vans.
The issue is, once again, the supply chain. The price of materials for electrical parts, computer chips, batteries and lumbar have skyrocketed due to the increased demand.
With many families struggling under the current economy and rising prices, it’s getting more difficult to afford the necessary interior items to convert a van for daily living, such as refrigerators, loft beds, toilets, sinks and cabinets.
Additionally, rising gas prices are also taking a toll.
The future of the van life movement
While an end is not yet in sight, the demand for new vans and conversion parts will eventually slow. In time, you can look forward to an easier experience as you shop for a new van or look for parts to upgrade your current van.
Companies are continuing to increase their output of supplies, and, hopefully, when gas prices level out and begin to decline, the shipment and distribution of supplies will also improve.
Freedom drives the pursuit
Many “van lifers” say there’s nothing like the freedom that comes with life on the road. When you live in your van, you get to explore the world and wake up wherever you choose.
This drive to live independently and take back control of their lives is part of what’s now fueling the current van life movement. Since the start of the pandemic, many people have been feeling a new connection to the van-life community. At the end of the day, it’s all about sustainability, freedom and happiness.
If you’re ready to purchase a new conversion van, look no further than the experts at Classic Vans. While inventory is still low across the U.S., we’re working hard every day to get you access to the best conversion and camper vans around.
Family owned and operated for over 30 years, we’re proud to be America’s #1 new and used conversion van, camper van and wheelchair-accessible dealer, offering a variety of vehicles to suit your individual needs.
