Family Transforms Van into Camper for €9,000 Ahead of Festival

UPDATE: A family in Ireland has successfully converted an old Volkswagen Transporter T5 van into a camper for under €9,000, just in time for the highly anticipated Electric Picnic festival in Stradbally. This innovative renovation aims to tackle the growing waste crisis associated with music festivals while providing a cost-effective and comfortable travel solution.

The family, led by a determined parent, initially sought to avoid the environmental pitfalls of disposable camping gear. With a staggering 17% of festival waste attributed to discarded tents in the UK, opting for a camper van represents a sustainable choice. As they embark on their journey to Electric Picnic next weekend, they are thrilled to have a secure space for their family and the ability to prepare their own meals.

The renovation process began earlier this year when the family purchased the van, affectionately named “Jason,” for just €800. Over several months, they encountered numerous challenges, including sourcing hard-to-find parts amid high demand for camper van renovations in Ireland. Panic set in during a bank holiday weekend trip to Belfast just to secure matching windows, emphasizing the urgency of their project.

By July, the family faced bureaucratic hurdles, navigating the complexities of converting the van’s registration from commercial to camper. After multiple assessments for the CVRT and SQI, they finally received the necessary approvals, though the process took weeks longer than anticipated.

The culmination of their hard work was tested during an inaugural road trip over the August Bank Holiday. The family traveled to an ecocamping site in Clare, where they experienced laughter-filled evenings and exploration, including a visit to the iconic Cliffs of Moher. However, they were reminded of the unpredictable nature of festival camping when they witnessed the impact of Storm Floris on fellow festivalgoers.

The total cost breakdown for the renovation included:
– Van purchase: €800
– Engine parts and reconditioning: €1,000
– Kitchen, presses, and bed: €3,100
– Sink, insulation, and hob: €1,000
– Wiring, heater, and flooring: €500
– Gas bottle safety and switches: €500
– Camp beds and mattress topper: €400
– VRT: €850
– Insurance: €433
– Certification costs: €400
Totaling: €8,983

With the festival just around the corner, the family is eager to hit the road, equipped with the comforts of home while remaining environmentally conscious. They plan to explore not only Electric Picnic but also further afield, aiming for trips to the Isle of Man, Wales, and Scotland.

As sustainable travel gains momentum, this family’s story highlights the human impact of thoughtful choices in a consumer-driven society. Their innovative approach serves as a blueprint for eco-conscious adventurers everywhere, encouraging others to rethink their travel habits.

Stay tuned for more updates as they embark on their Electric Picnic adventure!