How often do you use your camper

wexford12

Hi guys we are looking at buying a camper one concern we have is how often would we get to use it. What way do most people use them is it one night away trips or days out at beech parks etc.We both work and kids are school age so mid week is out at weekends is our only time but as im a taxi driver it will cause problems but having said that maybe its about making time.Any advice or in put would be great the other half does like the idea but is afraid it would sit outside and end up a play house for the kids

meercat

i mainly use it for 1 night trips
but i use it for day trips every weekend
ive also been to france a couple of times
youre right its hard to make plans to get away but the fact that its there means that at short notice you can head off
being self employed should help you here
i have often rang home to say im on my way and after picking up the camper ,stopped in some shopping centre to load up provisions.
my only regret was not doing it when the kids were smaller,so if you have any inkling that this lifestyle is for you,my advice is to go for it
there has never been a better time to buy one as there are some great deals out there

Irishgoatman

I doubt if many of us use them as much as we thought we would, but it is the convenience of being able to get away at short notice without having to book anywhere or even do much planning. Just open the map and go.

Also, if you get invited to a party, or to a do of any sort, no babysitter needed, both of you can have a drink without thinking of driving. I took mine to my Daughters one christmas when she was having a house full. She only lives 4 miles away but the convenience of the camper sorted everything.

I would say go for it.

Best of luck.

Bens

My brother bought one 8 years ago. They used it 4 times in the first year and never again after that. His wife told him to get rid of it so he gave it to us. Its been sitting in our drive for 2 years now and we have yet to use it. Now we are renting the house out it has to go too. My sister is going to take it, but I bet she never uses it either.

Irishgoatman

Bens wrote: »

My brother bought one 8 years ago. They used it 4 times in the first year and never again after that. His wife told him to get rid of it so he gave it to us. Its been sitting in our drive for 2 years now and we have yet to use it. Now we are renting the house out it has to go too. My sister is going to take it, but I bet she never uses it either.

Most of us don't have enough money to be able to leave a valuable item sitting around doing nothing.
If wexford12 finds it's not used enough in the first one or two years it can always go back on the market.

Saruman

I get some great use out of it. Only ever been on weekend trips or else one nighters. It is very convenient for beer related events such as the Galway beer festival in Salthill. Stayed the night in the camper and drove home the next afternoon.

Last weekend I went camping in Dungarvan with some other beer enthusiasts and did a pub crawl around Dungarvan drinking as much Dungarvan brewery beers as we could. The brewer met up with us for a drink as well.

I make sure to get use out of it. I do want to take it off for a longer trip though.

For now I will have a camper in Australia for 8 nights in Sept so that should be fun.

Bens

Irishgoatman wrote: »

Most of us don't have enough money to be able to leave a valuable item sitting around doing nothing.
If wexford12 finds it's not used enough in the first one or two years it can always go back on the market.

The point im making is that my brother dropped an awful lot of money on it and didnt get it back, even though he kept intending to use it, he didnt. On the money he lost, he cut have had several world cruises in that time.

I intended to use it too, but never got round to it either. I bet the same thing happens with my sister.

So Wexford12 should really intend getting the use out of it. They wont get the same money back if the resell it.

Merch

wexford12 wrote: »

Hi guys we are looking at buying a camper one concern we have is how often would we get to use it. What way do most people use them is it one night away trips or days out at beech parks etc.We both work and kids are school age so mid week is out at weekends is our only time but as im a taxi driver it will cause problems but having said that maybe its about making time.Any advice or in put would be great the other half does like the idea but is afraid it would sit outside and end up a play house for the kids

Unless you already go on trips away and can see the benefit of how it would save you money then I'd say don't.
I myself would think they'd be handy for the times a person might head away, but if I wasn't doing that enough, then I couldn't justify it.

I do know someone that uses it related to a sport, so its grand for carrying stuff and better to stay in than a tent, as above unless you already do that, I'd be of the thinking that it will end up not used. Most people I see that have one (not that I even know them, just see them around) they are mostly parked up, which I am not even sure if that is actually legal either, so their there is always that issue too, plus other maintenance and running costs, have you looked at how much it is to travel to UK/France on a ferry? or know where you might stay there or even in Ireland. From what I have seen abroad, Ireland isn't set up well re trailer camping parks, more B&B's. Some great facilities in some places/countries, re cooking/eating/washing/sauna facilities, but in Ireland haven't seen it myself.
Nice idea, but sound like white elephants to me. That's my 2 cents.

Irishgoatman

Hi wexford12,
I hope you notice that the negative comments are coming from non campervan/motorhome users!.

With regard to the posting by Merch, as long as the vehicle is taxed and insured there is no problem with it being parked up as long as it's parked legally as with a private car. I don't know where people get these weird ideas from.

He also mentioned cooking, washing etc with regard to facilities? well that's the thing with campers. They are self-contained!!!!!.

Travel abroad? there's plenty to do and see in Ireland and plenty of places to park whether it's wild (off the beaten track) camping, a caravan site or even a pub car park.
I don't know what age your children are but I can assure you that you'll find plenty of places for them to enjoy.

My advice? listen to camper owners. We've nothing to gain by speaking out in favour just the chance to pass on our experiences.

Merch

Irishgoatman wrote: »

Hi wexford12,
I hope you notice that the negative comments are coming from non campervan/motorhome users!.

With regard to the posting by Merch, as long as the vehicle is taxed and insured there is no problem with it being parked up as long as it's parked legally as with a private car. I don't know where people get these weird ideas from.

He also mentioned cooking, washing etc with regard to facilities? well that's the thing with campers. They are self-contained!!!!!.

Travel abroad? there's plenty to do and see in Ireland and plenty of places to park whether it's wild (off the beaten track) camping, a caravan site or even a pub car park.
I don't know what age your children are but I can assure you that you'll find plenty of places for them to enjoy.

My advice? listen to camper owners. We've nothing to gain by speaking out in favour just the chance to pass on our experiences.

I dont think I am totally slating them, I pointed out where people have a use, then they certainly have value, but if those kind of trips aren't already undertaken/ or done so frequently already, then the cost/value of owning one seems to be less. Most of the ones I see are parked up virtually 100% of the time. As I was saying re facilities, yes campers are self contained, from what I've seen, Ireland has more B&B's and fewer (or that I am aware of/have seen, camper parks with certainly with facilities) I've been to camper parks with facilities abroad, and they are great, clean, with the extras. Here I have seen signs for campers not to park or only places at the side of the road, which doesnt sound safe or seem legal. As for parking campers even on your drive, I'm sure Ive seen where CoCo dont allow it for more than 9months in a year and if I was the OP I'd definitely see what their local CoCo regulations are, as if a neighbour didnt like it, then they could end up with hassle.
I'm just saying look at all the possibilities.

Bens

Irishgoatman wrote: »

Hi wexford12,
I hope you notice that the negative comments are coming from non campervan/motorhome users!.

With regard to the posting by Merch, as long as the vehicle is taxed and insured there is no problem with it being parked up as long as it's parked legally as with a private car. I don't know where people get these weird ideas from.

He also mentioned cooking, washing etc with regard to facilities? well that's the thing with campers. They are self-contained!!!!!.

Travel abroad? there's plenty to do and see in Ireland and plenty of places to park whether it's wild (off the beaten track) camping, a caravan site or even a pub car park.
I don't know what age your children are but I can assure you that you'll find plenty of places for them to enjoy.

My advice? listen to camper owners. We've nothing to gain by speaking out in favour just the chance to pass on our experiences.

I dont understand why you are getting all defensive.
Nobody is ragging on campers, so please dont feel hurt by my comments. They are not meant as an anti-camping assault.

All I did was relay my experience and that of my brothers for the OP.
I actually quite liked the idea of camping, but just never got the use out of it.
My brother used it the first while, but found he preferred other things afterwards. OP, why not rent one for a weeks holiday and see how you go.

I would tell a similar story about buying a holiday home. Great for a while and then you get tired of them. For what you invested and the ongoing cost you can get much more holidays and different holidays. But you've already invested the money when you realize its not what you thought it was going to be like for you. If you can get some experience before you invest, then you are better in a position to decide to invest your time, space and money.

You might love it, or you might not. Better to find out as much as you can first, which I guess is why you posted.

Irishgoatman

Quick (I hope) replies to the last two postings.

Merch. With regards to trips not already being taken, I have seen more of Ireland in the last 3 years, since buying the camper (not my first by the way) than in the 16 years that I've been living here. 3 day visit to West Cork, 2 day trip to Killybegs, 3 day trip to Dingle, I could go on. Again the convenience, If the place isn't what you expected or like just up and move, no having to book anywhere. There are plenty of camper and caravan sites but I don't use them.

Bens. I'm not being defensive and certainly not hurt.
Yes, I agree with your last two paragraphs.
But remember that the campervan is not like a holiday home. You have the freedom to move. Let's face it, our freedom, in general, is fast disappearing.

Merch

Irishgoatman wrote: »

Quick (I hope) replies to the last two postings.

Merch. With regards to trips not already being taken, I have seen more of Ireland in the last 3 years, since buying the camper (not my first by the way) than in the 16 years that I've been living here. 3 day visit to West Cork, 2 day trip to Killybegs, 3 day trip to Dingle, I could go on. Again the convenience, If the place isn't what you expected or like just up and move, no having to book anywhere. There are plenty of camper and caravan sites but I don't use them.

Bens. I'm not being defensive and certainly not hurt.
Yes, I agree with your last two paragraphs.
But remember that the campervan is not like a holiday home. You have the freedom to move. Let's face it, our freedom, in general, is fast disappearing.

Fair enough, you use it, I'm sure plenty will and also plenty wont.
In your opinion, do you think there are many/good quality sites. I've picked up the sentiment and seen signs that suggest around villages/towns (but also elsewher in this country) that parking camping vans isnt allowed (probably at the insistence/under pressure of local businesses/B&B's) I've gone around in camper vans (abroad) and I enjoyed it, to me it was more novelty, so unless i did a lot of travelling, I personally couldnt justify it (although I cant afford it now, but thats besides the point). A relative asked me about it, and to me it seemed a passing thing with them, they dont currently do trips that would justify it and they haven't really seemed to have an interest in the past or even currently (I think a person will know if they will use it) I'd suggest to anyone try do a few trips by renting (see if they like it).

Irishgoatman

Merch wrote: »

Fair enough, you use it, I'm sure plenty will and also plenty wont.
In your opinion, do you think there are many/good quality sites. I've picked up the sentiment and seen signs that suggest around villages/towns (but also elsewher in this country) that parking camping vans isnt allowed (probably at the insistence/under pressure of local businesses/B&B's) I've gone around in camper vans (abroad) and I enjoyed it, to me it was more novelty, so unless i did a lot of travelling, I personally couldnt justify it (although I cant afford it now, but thats besides the point). A relative asked me about it, and to me it seemed a passing thing with them, they dont currently do trips that would justify it and they haven't really seemed to have an interest in the past or even currently (I think a person will know if they will use it) I'd suggest to anyone try do a few trips by renting (see if they like it).

As I said, I don't use sites so I'm not the one to comment on their quality.
Before getting the camper I didn't do much travelling around Ireland because it was cheaper to have a fortnight in Spain or Portugal, in the sun, than a week here. Now if there is an event on somewhere or a place shown on Nation Wide for example, that looks interesting I just go. No forward planning as such needed.
So far, in all my travels, I've yet to see a sign saying no parking for campervans so I don't think they're that common. No prob with parking on the keyside at Dingle, Killybegs and Kinsale, just to name three.
Waterford car parks for the tall ships festival, for example, campervans could use the park and ride facility stay for the full 3 days and if you didn't take the vehicle out of the car park the fee was just ten euro with the free bus service thrown in. Not bad hey.
But yes, I completely agree that you must use it unless you have money to throw away.

wexford12

Thanks guys for all your replies didn't think it would get a heated debate lol. We will have a good think before jumping into buying but it has been a dream since i was a child i cant help but look at every camper that passes on the road.Any more feed back would be great thanks again

Irishgoatman

Heated debate? this one? just a pleasant exchange of experiances and opinions.:D

Irishminds

Hi Wexford,
my advice is think carefully. Campers cost a lot of money and can devalue quite quickly.

Why not consider buying a caravan, you can get a fairly good one from c.€5,000 and they tend to keep their value quite well.

I have a friend that is so busy paying for his camper, he never gets time to use it.

I think campers are best for empty nesters or if you are going to go to the UK or France often.

Irishgoatman

We could do with hearing from someone who has a campervan/motorhome AND a family please.:):):)

People aren't usually so shy when it comes to talking about their vehicles and experiences.

paddyp

wexford12 wrote: »

Hi guys we are looking at buying a camper one concern we have is how often would we get to use it. What way do most people use them is it one night away trips or days out at beech parks etc.We both work and kids are school age so mid week is out at weekends is our only time but as im a taxi driver it will cause problems but having said that maybe its about making time.Any advice or in put would be great the other half does like the idea but is afraid it would sit outside and end up a play house for the kids

Welcome first of all and don't mind the banter as John Cleese would say 'Stop that, it's silly'

Sounds like you're a busy man I would say if its about making time then it won't happen very often. If you're not looking forward to planning trips in advance and looking forward to going you're not very lightly to go. Also if its competing with work less lightly again.
Anyway if I was on the road all day everyday I definitely wouldn't want to be rattling oer the bog on my holidays I'd be heading for a hotel jacuzzi to get the numbness out of my arse

Speaking of which hotel deals are crazy at the moment, we were in clonakilty last weekend family room b&b and dinner included €98. Creche, playgym, teen area, playground, pool, gym, cafe, bar, 3 screen cinema next door would have been my worst nightmare a few years ago but with kids my standards have slipped . The dinner would have cost us more and we paid that kind of money for campsite, chips and a swim in lahinch.

Maybe a day van would suit you though if you had something like a caravelle or multivan as a taxi with seat swivels, a removable table and kitchen pod see here http://greendogcampers.com/GREEN_DOG_Campervans_VW_%26_Mercedes_Conversion_Specialists_.Co_Wicklow_Ireland/Kitchen_Pod___VW_kitchen_unit___smev___Waeco_CR_50.html you'd be well sorted for day trips and wouldn't have to worry about maintaining two vehicles.

martyc5674

Irishgoatman wrote: »

We could do with hearing from someone who has a campervan/motorhome AND a family please.:):):)

People aren't usually so shy when it comes to talking about their vehicles and experiences.

Just back from France today in ours with 2 kids for 5 weeks.
We used to camp a lot before we had kids, then when we had kids the camping stopped and found it impossible to get away... That's what made us buy one, this is our third summer using it and it's been to France twice all over Kerry and Clare for weekends. They are expensive but if you buy it right you wont lose money over a year or two to see If it's for you or not.
Marty.

WildWater

We bought ours in March and have 3 kids and are both working full time. We have to balance a lot of agendas but so far we have used it every weekend bar 2. Often at the weekend it will be just a day trip but that was all part of the plan when we bought it. These day trip are a great additional usage bonus to the overnight trips.

For example the use of our bikes has sky rocketed since we bought the van. 10 mins and the bikes are loaded. It would take at least 30 to get the rack on the car and the bikes loaded the you couldn't open the boot etc so guess what the rack got use about once a year.

We are just back from 3 fab weeks in France (note to self: next year be like Marty and go for 5 weeks).

garden_snapper

Hi Wexford12,

We bought a caravan after a year of camping trips recently and its the best thing we ever done. We have it 8 weeks and we are currently on our 4th weekend away. The kids love it and you dont have to go far to get the value from it. In fact Wexford has some of the best parks on your doorstep.

My parents in law have a beautiful campervan but as mentioned prevously while they are great they cost a lot more than the caravan. Also consider if you would like to tour around when you get to site as you can set up a caravan and go off in the car but the Camper goes with you. Both have great unique pros.

We find it great but you gotta make the effort to go out in it. I have a weekend planner until the end of September!

*Kol*

I would say I average 5 uses a year max. Mostly in the summer for weekends or overnights. Have been to France a few times. Not much use for it over the winter.

Martin_D

Just back from 2 weeks in France - first trip in camper; planning 3 weeks next year already; now trying to work out how to get best use of camper until then. Ireland needs to wake up to the potential of campers to small local economies by developing even basic facilities and a warm welcome. France has managed to do this and also appears to manage a large "non tourist traveller" population.
Bought a decent Used A class but Jeez did we see some beauties in France (and a couple of huge Irish ones as well - Celtic Tiger legacy!!)
If you've ever done the France site holidays, tent or mobile home, and liked that you'll love the added freedom of a camper. Get up and go for it.:)
By the way - weather in France in past 2 weeks was worst we have encountered in several years of travel there; last week's few days of sunshine did redeem it somewhat but wind and rain in first week was too much like home!!!!!
Finally - I've been lurking in the background on this forum for a few months but have soaked up all the great advice and info that assisted us greatly in preparing for our first big adventure in the camper. Thanks a mil.

Saruman

A lot of people are on about justifying the cost of a camper van. Sure if you spend 40k on or more then that is a very good question to ask.
I got a perfectly good one for €5,500 and it does the job quite nicely. That is not a lot of money compared to what you get out of it when you use it.

So if you are going to get one, get a cheap conversion for about the 5k mark. In fact there is no reason why you can't find a good one cheaper.

If you don't get much use out of it, you can always sell it. Any loss you take when selling it on can be justified by the use you did in face get out of it while you had it.

Irishminds

I would be careful about buying a cheap campervan. I know a man that bought one at €9,000 and the air suspension went after a few weeks. His van was 15 years old and very few had been made, it was impossible to get parts. It would be a nightmare if it happened to you in France. Red penant etc don't want to know you if your van is more than 10 years old.

Again for someone starting out, I would suggest a caravan. There was a 2002 one sold in our caravan club at €5,100

http://pub47.bravenet.com/forum/static/show.php?usernum=4033220300&frmid=15&msgid=917221&cmd=show


In two years time it will have lost very little.

joed571

I bought mine last july because the wife liked the idea as they had them years ago. I didnt think we would use it( how wrong was i). We have since seen parts of ireland we wouldn't have seen from fota wildlife park in cork to the giants causway and nw200 in portrush and loads in between.. me and the lads use it to go to the rallys. So after 10,000k in just one year i use mine often im typing this from the south of france, half way through or three week holiday my boys aged 7 & 3 are loving it:)

Saruman

Irishminds wrote: »

I would be careful about buying a cheap campervan.

Goes without saying and can be applied to every single purchase to be honest, including if I was buying a brand new moving house sized camper.

I got a 2002 for €5,500 but mine was a conversion, a purpose built camper would cost a lot more.

munsterabu

hi ,we have a camper (old but in prefect condition), with us as with other people firstly it is a lifestyle choice . fresh air, bike riding ,scuba diving,fishing, bringing the kids(3yrold and 5yrold) round ireland so they will have great memories of their times away,etc.
we do hotels for other events if we have to.. we took it over to wales this year had a blast........but we did what we like to do and our Camper makes it happen for us, and it is possible to buy a modest one for reasonable money if you educate yourself on the market and call to people who have them .......

SARZY

Irishgoatman wrote: »

Heated debate? this one? just a pleasant exchange of experiances and opinions.:D

I have a Camper. I know a man who has a boat. I know another man who has an apartment in Spain. I know another man who has a cottage in Connemara. I know another man who has a mobile home on a site by the sea. Another man i know parks his caravan on a site for the summer months.

We all have one thing in common, we use them as often as we can.

And thats the key to this debate. You only have to justify it to yourself.

fatbast

depends on your kids ages aswell, under 13 you should be ok, but teenagers dont want to go to tescos with you never mind a campervan!...had a motorhome and enjoyed using it but only about 4 or 5 times, sold it for 35000 and got a caravan for 3500 roughly same size and layout inside. dont mind havin 3k on drive doing nothing. i reckon a motorhome is better for a couple who can winter in morocco or somewhere for 4 months but a caravan or hotel better in ireland, as you have the freedom of a car when you get there...