VW T6 vs Transit Custom vs Large Vans: Choosing the Right Campervan Furniture Layout
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If you’re planning a campervan conversion, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing a furniture layout that actually suits your van. While many campervan furniture systems look similar on paper, the reality is that layouts which work well in one van can feel cramped or impractical in another.
This guide compares campervan furniture layouts for the three most common conversion types: the VW T6, Ford Transit Custom, and larger panel vans such as the Peugeot Boxer and Citroën Relay.
Campervan Furniture Layouts for the VW Transporter T6
The VW T6 is one of the most popular campervan platforms due to its car-like handling and compact size. However, space is tight, which means furniture layout matters more than almost anything else.
Most VW T6 conversions use a side kitchen layout paired with a rock-and-roll bed. Storage is usually split between under-bed drawers, slim side units, and overhead lockers.
Because of the narrower interior width, furniture must be designed specifically for the T6 rather than adapted from generic flat-pack systems.
Explore purpose-built campervan furniture kits designed to fit compact vans like the VW T6.
- Compact kitchen units with integrated hob and sink
- Low-profile storage to preserve floor space
- Fold-away tables and removable worktops
Many T6 builders also choose dedicated campervan kitchen units designed to maximise usable space.
Campervan Furniture Layouts for the Transit Custom
The Ford Transit Custom sits between compact vans and large panel vans, offering more width and height than the VW T6 without becoming difficult to drive or park.
This extra space allows for more flexible furniture layouts, including longer kitchen runs, additional storage modules, and more comfortable seating arrangements.
Popular Transit Custom layouts include:
- Full-length side kitchens
- Under-bed storage with accessible rear drawers
- Integrated seating bases and removable tables
Many builders combine modular campervan storage modules with custom bed systems to suit their travel style.
Transit Custom conversions benefit most from modular furniture systems that can be adjusted around windows, doors, and wheel arches.
Campervan Furniture Layouts for Large Vans (Boxer, Relay, Ducato)
Larger vans such as the Peugeot Boxer, Citroën Relay, and Fiat Ducato offer the most freedom when it comes to campervan furniture layouts.
With significantly more interior width and height, these vans can accommodate fixed beds, larger kitchens, dedicated seating areas, and even internal bathrooms.
Typical layouts include:
- Fixed rear beds with large under-bed garages
- Full-height kitchen units with increased storage
- Permanent tables and seating bases
Because these vans are often used for longer trips, builders tend to favour complete full campervan furniture kits designed as a cohesive interior system rather than individual flat-pack units.
Why Van-Specific Furniture Design Matters
One of the most common mistakes in campervan conversions is choosing furniture that isn’t designed for the base vehicle. Generic flat-pack furniture often wastes space, creates awkward gaps, or compromises strength and there is also a weight consideration in larger vans.
Van-specific furniture systems are designed around real interior dimensions, allowing:
- Better fit and fewer compromises
- Improved strength and durability
- Cleaner installation and finish
This is especially important when choosing elements like campervan bed systems and integrated table solutions.
Choosing the Right Campervan Furniture Layout
The best campervan furniture layout depends on how you plan to use your van. Weekend trips, long-term travel, and full-time living all place different demands on space and storage.
If you’re unsure which layout suits your van, start by identifying your base vehicle, then explore furniture systems designed specifically for that platform, our popular campervan furniture layouts article may offer some inspiration.
You can view our full range of modular and made-to-order campervan furniture kits or get in touch to discuss layout options and compatibility.