According to TheZebra.com, there is a shift in the US from full-time living in self-converted vans to using professionally built adventure vans for occasional trips. The change is driven by rising material and fuel costs, as well as insurance challenges for custom projects.
The average cost of a full DIY van build exceeds $80,000, and insurance for such vehicles may only cover the value of an empty shell. In 2022, the average US gasoline price reached $4.99 per gallon, and in May 2026 it was $4.48.