Comparing Mesa and Del Mar Campers: Choosing the Ideal Van for Your Adventure
Road Tripping in Style: Mesa vs Del Mar Camper Vans
Planning a camping adventure of a lifetime? Choosing the right camper van can make or break your journey. Here's a breakdown of the Mesa and Del Mar Campervans, helping you decide!
Comfort & Amenities
Both camper vans are Ford T-350 model vehicles, but there are differences in sleeping arrangements and power features that set them apart.
Sleeping Arrangements
The primary difference comes down to the sleeping quarters.
Mesa
This camper van features a convertible queen-size bed, with daytime use as bench seats and table. It accommodates 2-5 people, but only 3 can sleep indoors. If you've got a group of 5, consider the rooftop sleeper accessory (extra $30/day). This is great for families with small children who use car seats, as the rear seats remain stationary.
Del Mar
The Del Mar also has a convertible queen-size bed and daytime table seating, along with a built-in interior pop-top full-size bed. The Del Mar sleeps up to 5 people comfortably, eliminating the need for a rooftop sleeper.
Kitchen and Amenities
Both camper vans come with:
- Rear kitchen with sink, two-burner propane stove, and dual-powered refrigerator
- Kitchen essential storage
- Interior table space
- Interior storage chests/drawers
- Privacy curtains
Del Mar Pros
- More spacious
- Pop top is more convenient, especially in adverse weather conditions
- Good for families who want their children sleeping inside the van
- USB ports and outlet plug
- Interior lighting
The Del Mar features Bluetooth capabilities, USB ports, and a 110v outlet, making it perfect for travelers relying on electronics. It also boasts ceiling lighting in the pop-top area, unlike the Mesa.
Additional amenities, such as a kitchen kit, propane tank, solar shower, picnic table, and camp chairs, can be added as accessories.
Driving and Parking
Mesa Pros
- More budget friendly
- Cheaper insurance
- Plenty of space for 2 or 3 people
Both camper vans are of the same size and are designed for easy maneuvering. They both offer backup cameras and sensors for ease of parking. The interior layout is mostly similar, except for the pop-top on the Del Mar versus the optional rooftop tent on the Mesa.
Cost Breakdown
The Del Mar being a newer model with additional features comes with a higher price point. However, it does not require the rooftop sleeper for larger groups, saving you $30/day compared to the Mesa. Del Mar's insurance is more expensive due to its premium features.
Best for Different Travel Styles
Choose the Mesa if you're traveling on a budget or prefer a more compact camper van. It's great for smaller groups and families with car seats. Travelers who don't require extra power options or USB ports, or are comfortable with a rooftop sleeper, will find it suitable.
Select the Del Mar for a premium experience. It's spacious, offers an indoor pop-top bed, and comes with extra power options and amenities. Perfect for families, digital nomads, or those traveling for longer durations with larger groups. It's also ideal if you pick up your camper van in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, or Denver.
Del Mar Cons
- Pricier
- More expensive insurance
Pros & Cons Summary
Both camper vans offer similar kitchen and storage layouts, gas mileage, and driving dynamics. Take a look at the table below for an at-a-glance comparison.
| Feature | Del Mar Pros | Del Mar Cons | Mesa Pros | Mesa Cons ||---------------|-------------------------|------------------|---------------------------|------------------------------|| Sleeping | More spacious, pop top | Pricier, more complex pop top | Budget-friendly, rooftop tent flexibility | Less interior space, tent access || Kitchen & Amenities | Upgraded amenities, more storage | Higher cost | Essentials included, lower cost | Fewer power options, less storage|| Driving & Parking | Easy to drive, similar as Mesa | Pop top impacts aerodynamics | Easy to drive, rooftop tent removable | Tent adds height if installed |
Mesa Cons
- Rooftop tent needed for larger groups
- A little tight for a group of 4 or 5
- No USB or outlet plugs
Embark on your bucket list journey without worrying about comfort and ease while road tripping around the US with our camper vans! Choose the Mesa or the Del Mar and set off on an unforgettable adventure! Making Your Choice: Mesa's convertible queen bed and budget-friendly design vs Del Mar's spacious interior, premium features, and built-in pop top bed.
[1] riversurfmtd.com/accessories/campervan-rooftop-tent-rentals[2] riversurfmtd.com/accessories/camping-extras[3] riversurfmtd.com/camper-van-rentals/east-coast-campervan-rentals[4] riversurfmtd.com/camper-van-rentals/west-coast-campervan-rentals
- For those on a budget or preferring a more compact camper van, the Mesa offers a convertible queen-size bed and essential amenities, making it suitable for small groups and families with car seats.
- The Del Mar camper van caters to travelers seeking a premium experience with a spacious interior, an indoor pop-top bed, and added power options like Bluetooth capabilities, USB ports, and a 110v outlet.
- When choosing between the Mesa and Del Mar camper vans, consider factors such as your travel style, group size, and preferred amenities, along with cost and vehicle accessibility in various locations across the US.
