Achill: Rise in wild campers creates problems

Rambling Rover, a luxury camper van rental service based in Rathdrina, Bow Park, near Slane, has expanded its fleet from seven manual vehicles to 15 top-tier campers, predominantly Swift models valued at over €100,000 each. Founder Paul Dunne said nearly 70% of first-time visitors express a desire to buy a camper van, but he advises renting multiple times before committing, as a €50,000 budget does not buy a lot. The company reports a 70% repeat customer rate; all vehicles are under 3.5 tonnes, require a standard category B license for drivers aged 25 and older, and include insurance and a 45-minute familiarization session.

Ireland lacks hostels and serviced sites for campervans. Recommended are Mannix Point, Clifden Eco Camping and Keel Camping. Prices vary by season; book ahead.

A letter to The Southern Star criticizes local authorities for lacking facilities for motorhome users, citing European examples. The author notes that motorhomes have toilets that need emptying every two days, but public toilets and campsites are often unavailable, especially in winter. Installing service points, like in Cobh, has boosted footfall and revenue. The author urges councils to adopt similar measures.

A surge in campervans at Inver beach in Drumbeg has sparked calls for a height barrier. Locals complain of congestion and lack of parking spaces.

A Ford Transit Custom PHEV converted to a camper in Ballymena received a VRT bill of €8,500 at 13.3%, though the owner expected 8% due to CO2 emissions of 37g/km. Revenue's criteria state that Category B VRT at 8% applies to motor caravans, while 13.3% applies only to vehicles with emissions of 120g/km or higher. If the conversion meets specific requirements (seats, table, sleeping accommodation, cooking and storage), the owner can appeal within 30 days; otherwise, they may need to pay and then appeal.

Irish journalist Conor Power rented a Cozy Cottage motorhome on a Volkswagen base for 234 euros per night and spent a week traveling around Ireland. He praised the vehicle's ease of handling and the sense of freedom, but criticized the country's inadequate infrastructure for motorhomes, including limited overnight spots and difficulties finding water and sanitation services. As a result, he often had to stay at campsites, adding 20–25 euros per night to his costs.