Campingaz vs Calor Gas
The two main gas options for UK campervans are Campingaz (propane/butane mix) and Calor Gas (pure propane or butane).
Comparison
| Factor | Campingaz | Calor Gas |
|---|---|---|
| Bottle types | Clip-on (CV 470, CV 360) | Traditional cylinder or Gaslight |
| Weight | 2.5-4kg | 7-15kg (propane) |
| Cost per kg | £8-12/kg | £3-5/kg |
| Where to buy | Camping shops, Go Outdoors | Calor stockists, garages, B&Q |
| Refill/exchange | Exchange only | Exchange only |
Ease of Use
Campingaz CV clip-on bottles are lighter and easier to connect — just clip onto a compatible regulator. Calor requires a spanner and hose.
Cost
Calor is significantly cheaper per kg. A 6kg Calor propane bottle costs £20-25. A 2.75kg Campingaz CV 470 costs £22-27.
Verdict
Campingaz wins for convenience, portability, and no heavy lifting. Calor wins for cost and wider availability. If you have the storage space, go Calor.
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Getting Started
If you're new to this topic, start with the basics:
- Understand the key concepts
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Plan your approach before buying
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Buying the cheapest option (often costs more long-term)
- Skipping research on UK-specific requirements
- Not reading reviews from other UK van lifers
- Forgetting about ongoing costs and maintenance
UK-Specific Considerations
Living in the UK means dealing with:
- Variable weather conditions
- UK regulations and standards
- British suppliers and support
- Right-hand drive vehicle considerations
Budget Planning
For most van lifers, we recommend:
- Budget option: £50-100 (basic but functional)
- Mid-range: £100-200 (good quality, lasting)
- Premium: £200+ (best quality, longest lasting)
Maintenance Tips
Keep your equipment working well:
- Check regularly for wear and tear
- Clean according to manufacturer instructions
- Store properly when not in use
- Replace parts before they fail
Community Recommendations
The van life community consistently recommends:
- Starting simple and upgrading as needed
- Buying from established UK suppliers
- Reading forums and Facebook groups for real-world advice
- Watching YouTube tutorials before attempting installations
Quick Reference Checklist
- Research your specific needs
- Set a realistic budget
- Read UK van lifer reviews
- Buy from reputable UK suppliers
- Follow manufacturer instructions
- Maintain regularly
- Update as your needs change
