the beginning of mainstream #vanlife begins in Ireland

just a bunch of climbers and surfers, 2018

Declarations of vehicle conversions made to Revenue provide some indication of the steadily-growing numbers converting vans to motor caravans. With 416 conversions processed in 2019, this number grew to 536 in 2020, and the first four months of 2021 brought a further 246.

'You’re at home, wherever you are': The 20-somethings buying vans instead of houses

It would appear the lifestyle that was embraced by outdoorsy people, growing from dirt bagging in caves and tents, before progressing to vans as everyone became wealthier is now becoming a new ‘norm’ in society. Exciting on so many levels, however, we’re still in the early stages as is evidenced by many using very small vehicles - this isn’t the USA with RV-style campers!

what is interesting, and likely to occur here in the future, of course, are the impacts of all these vans - many of whom don’t use campsites: little, issues with toilets, etc.

UKclimbing is starting to flag this is as an issue in the UK with educational posts on good campervan habits. In Spain, it’s easy to get away with it as they have so much space (although anyone who has parked at the campervan sites in Margalef or Siurana may disagree….), however, more densely populated countries (Switzerland, UK, Austria) have clamped down significantly. However, go and read the comments on UKC - look at the push-back: we have a right! and we can’t afford campsites! Eh, how, about considering that when you bought your camper? Like it or not, responsibility comes with owning these vehicles - we’ll all have to step up to manage our impact going forward.

Thoughts?