Micro-campers based on compact high-roof station wagons, such as the VW Caddy, Peugeot Rifter and Renault Kangoo, offer a combination of an everyday car and a weekend sleeping space. In 2025, Germany recorded 44.7 million overnight stays at campsites — a new record.
These vehicles fit in underground parking garages and regular parking spaces, are suitable for commuting, and have fuel consumption at the level of a passenger car. The sleeping area typically consists of a fold-out mattress about 1.2 m wide and 2 m long, with kitchen and storage in the trunk.
Options include factory solutions (VW Caddy California from 37,700 euros), professional conversions (Vanderer from 33,000 euros), and removable camping boxes (Vanessa from 2,300 euros for a kitchen module). Micro-campers lack a shower, stationary kitchen, and full electrical supply.