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

A family in Ireland has successfully transformed a used Volkswagen Transporter T5 into a camper van for under €9,000 ahead of the upcoming Electric Picnic music festival. The project, dubbed “Jason,” reflects a personal journey towards sustainable travel and family bonding while addressing the concerns of waste often associated with festival culture.

After years of lacklustre holidays, the family decided to embrace a new adventure. The decision was motivated by a desire to reduce waste associated with temporary accommodations like tents, which often end up in landfills. According to estimates, tents account for 17% of landfill waste at music festivals in the UK. This realization prompted them to explore alternatives that would not only be more environmentally friendly but also offer comfort and flexibility.

The family initially planned to rent or borrow a camper van. However, they soon realized that investing in their own vehicle would provide greater benefits for future holidays. This decision was particularly important for their two teenage boys, who are neurodiverse. Having the ability to maintain familiar routines, including preferred meals and sleep arrangements, would make family outings less stressful.

In May, the family acquired Jason, an old work van in need of extensive renovations. The renovation process quickly became a financial challenge, with unexpected costs arising from sourcing parts and repairs. The initial excitement was tempered by the reality of the work involved. For instance, sourcing a replacement wheel arch required shipping from Poland, which surprisingly cost more than the part itself.

As the renovation progressed, the family involved their boys in the hands-on work, teaching them valuable skills while keeping them engaged during their school holidays. The search for parts was often frantic, with many suppliers experiencing stock shortages due to the growing popularity of camper van renovations in Ireland. A notable moment included a trip to Belfast to secure the last set of matching windows available on the island.

By July, the family faced bureaucratic hurdles related to the conversion of the van’s registration from commercial to camper. They navigated the complexities of the Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) process, which required multiple assessments. Delays in the system meant they waited four weeks for the tax difference to be approved before they could obtain insurance.

August marked the first test of the newly renovated camper van, as the family took a trip to an eco-camping site in County Clare. With the boys sleeping in an attached awning, the family enjoyed quality time together, playing games and exploring local attractions like the Cliffs of Moher. Their experience was not only enjoyable but also cost-effective; the two-night getaway, including campsite fees, food, and fuel, totaled just €300. This was significantly less than a typical week-long holiday abroad.

The family’s successful renovation of Jason is more than an investment in a vehicle; it represents a shift towards sustainable travel and meaningful family experiences. Looking ahead, they are already planning further adventures, including a trip to Electric Picnic and explorations of locations such as the Isle of Man and Scotland.

In a detailed cost breakdown, the renovation totaled €8,983, encompassing expenses from the initial van purchase to kitchen installations and necessary certifications. As the family continues to use their camper van, they anticipate that this investment will pay off in memorable experiences and further adventures.