Lithuania

Economists report that buying a home in Lithuania is becoming increasingly difficult not only in Vilnius but also in other regions. While real estate may sound appealing, a home on wheels allows one to relocate one's residence. Delfi reviews what the Lithuanian motorhome market offers.

A Toyota HiAce has been converted into an off-road camper using running gear from a Land Cruiser 200, including four-wheel drive with low range and locking differentials. The vehicle features reinforced suspension, 300 mm of ground clearance, 35-inch Toyo Open Country tires, steel bumpers, underbody protection, a winch, and a snorkel. Inside, it has a power-operated pop-up roof, a sleeping area, a fold-out sofa, a pull-out kitchen with an induction hob, a fridge, an air fryer, a portable shower, and a 275-liter water tank. Power comes from a generator and a 200 Ah battery.

On Wednesday, a pre-trial investigation was launched at the Mazeikiai district police commissariat over a camper theft committed on Tuesday. According to preliminary police data, the camper, valued at 16,000 euros, was parked near the Baltic Petroleum gas station in Tirkšliai. On Tuesday at about 1 p.m. it was still in place, but by 10 p.m., when its owners returned, it was no longer there. Suspects are being identified; this year, five vehicle thefts have been registered in the district (only two by September last year), including one car theft.

On Tuesday morning, firefighters responded to a fire in a frame garage in Dercekliai village, Priekulė eldership. The garage was already engulfed in flames, and the roof of one bay collapsed. A camper, a Toyota car, a BMW motorcycle, a Vespa scooter, and household items were destroyed. In an adjacent garage, walls were damaged and a camper was scorched.

Jurgita Skučaitė, a traveler from Lithuania, shared her experience of solo travel in a camper she built herself. She said the main challenge was not loneliness but understanding herself. Her first camper took several months to build, and she now travels the world without feeling the need for constant company.

In Lithuania, the sharing economy model 'Kemperiai 365' is gaining popularity, allowing camper owners to rent out their vehicles when not in use. According to the company, a new mid-range camper costs 55,000–75,000 euros plus VAT, but buying through a company and renting it out allows VAT recovery. Monthly lease payments range from 600 to 750 euros, while annual rental income is 8,000–11,000 euros (excluding VAT), covering expenses. The program includes full management, KASKO insurance, and inspections after each trip.