VW Caddy Tramper - a camper every day

It would seem that passenger cars (with some exceptions) have no chance to prove themselves as a budget camper. Yes - for years, tourist versions of Volkswagen Transporter, Opel Vivaro and similar have been available. Unfortunately - astronomical prices often exceeding PLN 150,000 and dimensions - disqualify them from the functions of everyday cars.

An interesting solution, which is a combination of a typical passenger car and a budget camper for two people, is offered by Volkswagen. The Caddy model , produced in Poznań , has been used by many users for several years as a typical family car and delivery van. Among the many versions available, Tramper deserves our attention.

Every day motorhome

Taking economic considerations into account, the most sensible engine on offer is the 105hp 1.6 TDI (formerly 1.9) TDI, which consumes little fuel. Already in the serial configuration, the Caddy, like any kombivan, provides a very spacious interior , accommodating five adults with considerable luggage.

The interior of the Tramper version, designed for active tourism, hardly differs from other variants - except for the multi-colored upholstery. On a long list of paid options, the manufacturer offers many interesting additions, useful not only during vacation travels. Automatic dual-zone air conditioning, auxiliary heating, navigation, heated front seats, as well as a panoramic sunroof - all this raises the final price to PLN 110,000 .

Camper for two

Only after opening the trunk will we know the true character of the Caddy Tramper. Behind the rear seat, in the place of the cavernous trunk, there is a fold-out bed measuring 1.1 x 2 m , and under it you will find a number of compartments intended for the rest of the tourist equipment, about which in a moment.

Converting the glass cabin into a double bedroom takes only 10 minutes. It is enough to put the backrest of the rear couch and the front seats, unfold the frame with the mattress, and finally hang functional, lockable shelves on the side windows (so far hidden in containers under the bed). Of course, we can cover the rear and windshield with dark roller blinds, isolating ourselves from the surroundings.

Unfortunately - in such a configuration we have to come to terms with a very limited living space. For some users, the height at which the bed is located - almost on the line of the side windows, may be a significant obstacle.

Enlarging the interior

If the weather conditions turn out to be favorable, we can enlarge the usable area of our motorhome in a few moments. There is a tent hidden in one of the bags. Interestingly - the entire textile structure rests only on the open trunk lid. The unfolding operation is child's play: the tent is attached to the guides and handles on the car, and then, using traditional lines and tracks, we stretch the whole thing. There are two zipped entrances to the center. The biggest disadvantage of the tent is the lack of a floor .

Tourist equipment

In addition to a comfortable place to sleep, Volkswagen also took care of thoughtful accessories, useful while relaxing. In the trunk, occupied by the bed and the storage compartments, there are also two fold-out armchairs and a table . They are made of aluminum and plastic elements, which translates into their low weight.

VW Caddy Tramper version can serve us as a fully-fledged passenger car every day - it is enough to remove the bed and other accessories in a few minutes.