If you love the idea of a go-anywhere camper that still works as your daily driver, a Citroen Berlingo micro camper is a brilliant place to start. At GB Camper Conversions in Tamworth, Staffordshire, our family-run workshop designs and builds compact, clever layouts for Berlingo owners who want weekender freedom without giving up everyday practicality. Handcrafted in the UK by experienced craftsmen, each build follows our ethos: Concept. Design. Then meticulous install.

Why the Citroen Berlingo makes a brilliant micro camper base

The Berlingo (and its siblings such as the Peugeot Partner and Vauxhall Combo) offers the right mix of footprint, headroom and payload for compact touring. Sliding side doors, a broad tailgate or twin rear doors, and a level load space make it a natural for modular furniture, a comfortable bed platform and a neat rear galley.

• Compact outside, roomy inside: You’ll fit into multi-storey car parks and country lanes yet still have space for a full-length sleeping platform.
• Efficient to run: Micro campers are lighter than full-size builds, which helps with real-world fuel economy.

SWB vs XL (LWB) Berlingo considerations

Short wheelbase models are perfect for two, prioritising a quick-fold bed and a compact pod kitchen. XL (long wheelbase) variants gift you extra boot length, making room for a slightly longer mattress, deeper drawers and a fridge while still retaining more passenger capacity. Think about:

• Load length: XL models offer more under-bed storage and easier bike-carrying. SWB is still very capable with a smart folding platform.
• Doors: A tailgate creates weather cover for rear cooking; twin doors make for easier access to split storage.
• Seating: Decide if you need five seats full-time or if a two/three-seat arrangement is acceptable most days.

Sleeping and seating options

Comfort and safety guide every decision. We’ll talk you through materials, fixings and weight distribution at your vehicle assessment.

• Folding platform bed: Our most popular choice. Packs flat against the boot when not in use, with ventilated slats and segmented cushions.
• Rock-and-roll style base (micro scale): Where space allows, a compact bench converts into a bed while retaining under-seat storage.
• Mattress choices: High-density foam with breathable covers, memory-foam toppers for colder months, and wipe-clean options for pet owners.

Compact galley and smart storage

Function first, then finish. We use durable lightweight boards, quality hinges and positive latches to prevent rattles on the A38 and beyond.

• Cooking: Choose from gas hobs with proper ventilation, or a compact induction plate if you’re electrics-focused and campsite-hookup friendly.
• Water: Portable fresh and waste containers with quick-connect lines to a compact sink and micro tap.
• Cold storage: 12V compressor coolers sized to your space, mounted on slides for easy access.
• Tables and prep surfaces: Drop-in boards or swing-away tables that stow flat, so the Berlingo remains practical midweek.
• Organised stowage: Crates, soft pockets and drawer dividers to keep bedding, cookware and electrics tidy.

Power, lighting and ventilation choices

Micro campers benefit most from efficient, low-draw systems. We’ll specify components based on how you actually tour.

12V power, charging and solar

• Auxiliary battery: Compact AGM or lithium options, safely housed and fused.
• DC–DC charging: Reliable top-up while you drive, suitable for smart alternators.
• Shore power: External hookup with a charger if you frequent serviced sites.
• Roof or portable solar: A discreet panel on XL roofs or a foldable blanket for park-and-play flexibility.

Lighting

• Dimmable LED strips: Soft ambient light for evenings.
• Reading spots: Switched lamps near the bed for practical task lighting.
• Load-area light upgrade: Brighter OEM-style units to make packing simpler.

Ventilation

• Window vents and wind deflectors: Secure, rain-friendly airflow.
• Tailgate awning: Creates a sheltered cook space and passive ventilation.
• Compact roof vents (where suitable): Low-profile fans help with moisture management on longer trips.

Practical packing tips

• Pack low and central: Store heavy items under the bed to keep handling predictable.
• Use soft bags: Duffels squash into odd spaces better than hard cases.
• Quick-grab kit: Keep kettle, torch and layers near the tailgate for late arrivals.
• Two-box water system: Separate fresh and waste with labelled caps to avoid mix-ups.

DVLA and classification at a glance

Many Berlingo builds stay as cars or vans on the V5C rather than switching to “motor caravan”. That’s normal for Micro Campers and doesn’t stop you enjoying proper camping comforts. We’ll explain how our designs consider secure installations, gas and electrical safety, and insurance needs. For detailed questions, we’re happy to talk through your specific vehicle and intended use.

How we design and build in-house in Tamworth

Everything happens at our Tamworth, Staffordshire workshop. Being family-run means you work directly with the people building your van. We measure, template and mock up to confirm ergonomics before we commit to final cuts. Materials are chosen for longevity and finish, fixings are hidden where possible, and edges are sealed for easy cleaning. It’s all handcrafted in the UK by experienced craftsmen who’ve refined Berlingo layouts over many years.

Because every base vehicle and wish list is different, timings and budgets vary. Pricing depends on the scope of work, component choices, and the condition and specification of your Berlingo. We’ll outline clear options at your consultation so you can prioritise what matters most.

See examples and next steps

Want to explore what’s possible in your Berlingo? Start with our dedicated page on Citroen Berlingo camper conversions for an overview of layouts and options. If you’re weighing up other small-van formats, our Micro Campers hub is a useful read. For a stripped-back, kit-carrying setup, browse our Day Van conversions. To see real builds, materials and finishes, head to View Gallery. Ready to chat about your van? Enquire Now and we’ll book you in at our Tamworth workshop.

FAQs: Citroen Berlingo micro camper conversions

Will my Berlingo be reclassified by the DVLA?

Most Berlingo micro campers remain classed as cars or vans on the V5C rather than motor caravans. That’s perfectly normal. We’ll explain how our installs consider safety and insurance, and what evidence you may wish to keep regarding the conversion.

What affects the cost of a Berlingo conversion?

Pricing depends on the scope of work, component quality (e.g., batteries, fridges, hobs), materials and any preparation required on your base vehicle. We’ll outline options at the consultation so you can tailor the build to your budget and priorities.

Is the SWB big enough for two adults to sleep comfortably?

With a smart folding platform and well-sized cushions, yes. Taller campers may appreciate the extra length in the XL, which also gives more under-bed storage.

What power setup do you recommend?

For most owners: a compact auxiliary battery, DC–DC charger for drive-time top-ups, and dimmable LEDs. Add a compressor cooler and rooftop or portable solar if you want longer off-grid stays.

Can you help with soft furnishings and finishes?

Absolutely. From hard-wearing workhorse finishes to warmer woodgrains and upholstery, we’ll sample materials with you and match the look to how you use the van.

Enquire Now to discuss your Berlingo micro camper conversion at our Tamworth, Staffordshire workshop.