Holidays in the Netherlands become more expensive, but not for all tourists

Dutch camper van builder VAN-Jorn has opened a new factory and showroom in Groningen, tripling its production capacity. Founded by Jorn Hofman in 2018, the company grew from a hobby project into a brand offering modular camper vans. It plans to deliver 140 units in 2025 and aims for 300 annually by 2028. The 3,000+ m² facility includes a 250 m² showroom. About 30% of vans are built on the Peugeot e-Boxer, with a claimed range of 350 km and up to two weeks of off-grid camping.

Starting July 1, 2026, the Netherlands will implement a toll for trucks over 3.5 tonnes. Owners of motorhomes without Dutch license plates can register their vehicle at www.vrachtwagenheffing.nl/ontheffing-aanvragen to prevent incorrect charges. The toll does not apply to motorhomes but aims to promote sustainable transport and reduce CO2 emissions.

Ventje has unveiled the compact camper van T7 based on the new Volkswagen Transporter. The model is available with diesel, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric drivetrains. A key feature is the option for up to seven belted seats, making it suitable for daily use. The camper van comes in lengths of 5.05 or 5.45 meters, with a starting price of €90,000.

Rising costs for fuel, insurance, and maintenance are forcing many motorhome owners to reconsider their travel plans. 69-year-old Ruud, despite financial strain, says he will continue traveling as long as he can. In the Netherlands, a new motorhome parking area is being planned on the site of the former Pieper transport company in Nieuw-Schoonebeek, with a permit reportedly on its way.

Rian, a 54-year-old single mother, sold her city home and bought a static caravan (stacaravan) on a holiday park. The move significantly reduced her living expenses and gave her financial freedom. During the first months, the caravan had no water or electricity, and indoor temperatures dropped to 3 °C. Now all utilities are connected, and Rian says she is content with small-space living.

Starting July 1, 2026, the Netherlands introduces a kilometer-based toll for trucks over 3.5 tons. Motorhomes are exempt if the registration certificate shows class M1 or code SA. To prevent incorrect fines due to automatic license plate recognition, owners are advised to register their vehicle on the portal vrachtwagenheffing.nl/de.