Campervan Cost Ireland – Simple Guide to Budget Your Road Trip

Thinking about hitting the Irish coast in a campervan? First thing you’ll wonder is the price. Whether you’re buying a used motorhome or renting one for a week, the costs break down into a few clear categories. Knowing each piece helps you avoid surprises and keeps the trip fun instead of stressful.

Breakdown of Typical Expenses

Purchase price. A second‑hand campervan in Ireland usually starts around €25,000 for a compact model and can climb past €80,000 for a full‑size motorhome with all the bells. New builds cost more, but they also come with warranty protection.

Rental rates. If you only need a vehicle for a few weeks, hiring is cheaper. Expect €70‑€120 per day for a small van, and €150‑€250 for a larger, fully equipped motorhome. Weekly discounts are common – many companies cut 10‑15% off the total.

Fuel. Diesel is the norm for motorhomes, and Irish prices hover around €1.70 per litre. A typical 70‑litre tank gets you about 400 km, so factor in roughly €30‑€40 for every 400 km you drive.

Insurance. Public liability is mandatory and costs about €150‑€300 a year for a personal motorhome. Rental companies usually bundle insurance, adding €10‑€20 per day.

Campsite fees. Most Irish sites charge €15‑€35 per night for a pitch with electricity and water. Some “wild camping” spots let you stay free, but you’ll need a portable waste system.

Maintenance. Plan for €500‑€1,000 a year for service, tyre replacement and unexpected repairs. Keeping the vehicle clean and checking fluid levels regularly saves bigger bills later.

Tips to Save Money on Your Irish Road Trip

Book early. The best deals on rentals appear 6‑8 weeks ahead of the travel date, and many campsites lower prices for off‑peak weeks.

Travel off‑season. Visiting in September or early October cuts rental fees by up to 30% and frees up popular sites without a crowd.

Choose a smaller van. A compact camper uses less fuel, costs less to insure, and fits into tighter parking spots along the Wild Atlantic Way.

Use free “wild camping” where legal. In Ireland you can pitch on unenclosed land as long as you stay hidden, leave no trace, and move on after a night.

Combine fuel stops. Fill up in larger towns where prices are lower, and avoid stopping at tourist traps that charge premium rates.

Bring your own kitchen gear. Cooking your meals saves hundreds compared to eating out, and most campsites provide basic cooking facilities.

Check the fine print on insurance. Some policies waive the excess if you stick to approved routes and camp only in designated areas.

Finally, write down a simple budget before you go. List the major costs above, add a little extra for emergencies, and you’ll have a clear picture of what your Irish campervan adventure will really cost.