Micro-campers gain popularity: from VW Caddy to foldable Dashaway

Micro-campers based on compact high-roof vans such as the VW Caddy, Peugeot Rifter and Renault Kangoo offer a combination of a daily driver and a weekend sleeping space. In 2025, Germany recorded 44.7 million overnight stays at campsites — a new record. These vehicles fit into underground garages and standard parking spaces, are suitable for commuting, and have fuel consumption at passenger car levels. The sleeping area is typically a fold-out mattress about 1.2 m wide and 2 m long, with kitchen and storage in the boot. Options include factory-built solutions (VW Caddy California from €37,700), professional conversions (Vanderer from €33,000), and removable camping boxes (Vanessa from €2,300 for a kitchen module).

In Germany, micro-campers based on compact high-roof station wagons are gaining popularity, combining daily use with weekend camping. In 2025, German campsites recorded 44.7 million overnight stays, a new record. Models like the VW Caddy, Peugeot Rifter, and Renault Kangoo fit in underground garages and standard parking spaces, with fuel consumption and maintenance costs close to those of passenger cars. Options include factory-built solutions (VW Caddy California from €37,700), professional conversions (Vanderer from €33,000), and removable camping boxes (from €2,300 for a rear kitchen). Micro-campers provide a sleeping area and storage but lack a shower, fixed kitchen, and full electrical system.

Wheelhome has introduced the folding micro-caravan Dashaway ECT, originally designed for the Tesla Model 3 but now compatible with multiple electric vehicles. When folded, it measures 3.8 by 1.1 meters and weighs 370 kg, minimizing range impact. On site, it unfolds in five minutes, offering a sleeping area of 196×127 cm, standing height of 1.8 m, induction hob, microwave, 12 L fridge, and 10 L external water tank. Power comes from a 3 kWh battery and solar panels. Price is around €22,780.

British company Wheelhome has introduced the Dashaway ECT folding mini-caravan, originally designed for the Tesla Model 3. When folded, it measures 3.8 x 1.1 meters and weighs 370 kg. Setup takes about five minutes, revealing two seats, a table, a double bed (196 x 127 cm), an induction hob, a sink, a 12-liter fridge, and space for a portable toilet. Interior headroom is 1.8 m. Price: £19,750 (approx. €22,780).