So you’re planning the ultimate Escape Camper Van road trip. You’ve already decided your destination and some places you want to visit along your route. You’re dream destinations are calling, and now you’re down to the final decision: which van do you take? 

This guide breaks down the key differences between the Mesa and Del Mar camper vans so you can choose the right ride for your trip. Whether you’re rolling with a crew or planning a cozy getaway for two, we’ll help you pick out the perfect van for maximum comfort, ease, and adventure. 

Camper Van Comparison Chart

What’s On The Inside?

The Mesa and Del Mar share the same solid foundation—literally. Both are built on the spacious Ford T-350 chassis and feature a smart, efficient interior layout that includes a rear-access kitchen, a convertible bed/dinette setup, and well-placed storage for all your road trip essentials.

But while the Mesa is all about the essentials done right, the Del Mar takes things a step further, with comfort and versatility in mind. The biggest standout? The premium pop top. This feature doesn’t just add headroom, it creates a second dedicated sleeping area, giving you more space, more flexibility, and an all-around elevated experience. Whether you’re traveling with friends, family, or just want the freedom to spread out, the Del Mar offers the kind of upscale functionality that makes a noticeable difference.

Regardless of whether you choose Mesa or Del Mar, you will have a thoughtfully designed campervan ready for you to hit the road.

Mesa Diagram

Del Mar Diagram

Comfort & Amenities

Both the Mesa and the Del Mar are the same length and feature the same great convertible queen-sized bed. The biggest differences come down to the sleeping arrangements and power features in each van. Here is a breakdown of the sleeping arrangements, kitchen and amenities, and the driving and parking abilities of each van.

Sleeping Arrangements

The sleeping arrangements are the primary difference between the Mesa and Del Mar camper vans. Here’s a breakdown of the differences.

Mesa Sleeping Arrangements

The Mesa Camper Van features a convertible queen-size bed. During the day, you can transform the bed into two bench seats with a table which is perfect for hanging out on rainy or windy days. 

The Mesa can sleep up to three people inside the van, and up to five with the optional rooftop sleeper add-on ($30/day).

Del Mar Sleeping Arrangements

Like the Mesa, the Del Mar Camper Van also sleeps up to five and features a convertible queen-size bed on the bottom level that turns into a sitting area with a table during the day. Where it differs from the Mesa is its second built-in interior pop top with a full-sized bed, and room to stand up and move around inside the van. No need to climb outside or fumble with a rooftop tent, which is can be a huge plus in unpredictable weather. Just flip the switch and let the automatic pop top do all of the work. It sleeping

With more comfortable sleeping space, the Del Mar is a great option for travelers who need a little more room and are looking for a more premium comfort experience. The Del Mar can accommodate up to five people without a rooftop sleeper.

Kitchen

Both the Mesa and Del Mar Escape Camper Van models are equipped with:

• A rear kitchen with:
  • Sink with a five-gallon water supply
  • Two-burner propane stove
  • Dual-powered refrigerator
• Storage for kitchen essentials
• Interior table for dining and relaxing
• Interior storage drawers and chest
• Curtains for privacy

Both vehicles also feature stationary rear bucket seats. Which is convenient for keeping bags and gear organized and for families with car seats, since you won’t have to move the car seat to make the bed. 

Additional Amenities

Mesa

In addition to the amenities listed above, the Mesa also features 12v outlets or USB ports for charging your devices and bluetooth capabilities so you can listen to ‘Life is a Highway’ on loop. 

Del Mar

The Del Mar has everything that the Mesa has plus

• USB charging ports throughout the van
• 110v outlet for powering up on the go (requires shore power/electric kit)
• Fully automatic pop top
• Integrated ceiling lights in the pop top

All of these upgraded features make the Del Mar a smart pick for digital nomads, families, and anyone needing more creature comforts. The Mesa offers a more basic interior experience, which works great for travelers who want to unplug and keep it simple.

Other amenities, like a kitchen kit, propane tank, solar shower, picnic table, and camp chairs can be added on as Escape Camper Vans extra accessories.

Driving and Parking

Both the Mesa and Del Mar are Ford T-350 vans, the same length, and can fit into most standard camp spots and are built for easy maneuvering. The biggest difference? Interior space. The Del Mar feels much roomier inside thanks to it’s built in pop top. 

Cost Breakdown

As a newer vehicle and with extra features like the built-in pop top bed, the Del Mar is a pricier vehicle than the Mesa. However, you get some serious bang for your buck:

• No need to pay extra for a rooftop tent ($30/day).
• Room to stand up and move around inside the van. 
• Everyone can sleep inside.
• More charging capabilities and comfort perks included. 

As a premium vehicle, the insurance for the Del Mar is slightly more expensive. However, they average the same fuel economy (14 – 17 mpg), so fuel costs will be about the same for both vans. 

Which is Best for Different Travel Styles?

Both the Mesa and Del Mar are great camper van options. Two of the biggest differences are the sleeping set up and the price difference for each model. Here’s a breakdown of which camper van is the best option for you and your group!

Who should choose a Del Mar?

If you like to travel with extra comfort, convenience and space, the the Del Mar is the right option for you. The built-in pop top means you’ll enjoy more room to sleep and hang out inside your camper van, and the interior lighting makes it extra cozy inside at night. This makes it an ideal choice for families with small children or anyone who wants the ease of keeping everything (and everyone) inside the van. 

The Del Mar’s extra interior space and upgraded amenities make it perfect for longer trips, larger groups, and travellers who need a variety of in-van power options. If you’re picking up your camper van in Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Phoenix, or Denver, then the Del Mar is an option for your journey!

Who should choose a Mesa?

The Mesa is a fantastic budget-friendly camper van option that doesn’t skimp on adventure. If you’re traveling with a smaller group or just don’t need the extra space, then the Mesa is a solid option.

It offers the same great setup and driveability as the Del Mar, and with the optional rooftop tent, it can sleep up to five. Plus, the rooftop tent can be removed up to two days before your trip at no charge, making it ideal for travelers with shifting plans.

The Mesa is available for round-trip and one-way rentals at all of our locations. 

Pros & Cons Summary

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