If you’ve been dreaming about hitting the open road in your own campervan, one of the first big questions that comes up is: how much does a van conversion cost in Ireland?
The short answer is: it depends on what you want from your van. At Saor, our basic conversions start around €5,000–€10,000+, while a full custom build typically runs €20,000–€30,000+. You can definitely save money with a DIY approach, but most people come to us for a safe, professional job that’s built to last.
When we were starting our first conversion, we had the same questions you do now. That’s why we’ve put together this guide, so you’ll know what drives the cost up, where you can save, and how to budget for your dream build.
The big question – what’s the average cost?
Here’s a rough idea of what you’re looking at when you work with Saor:
- Basic van conversion: €5,000 – €10,000+
(insulation, flooring, bed platform, lights, storage, simple electrics) - Full van conversion: €20,000 – €30,000+
(full kitchen, appliances, solar, heating, premium cabinetry & finishes)
Most of our clients land somewhere in between with a van that’s cosy, functional, and tailored to their lifestyle.
Factors that affect the cost
Every van is different, but here are the main things that shape the final price:
1. Size of the van
A short-wheel base Transit is cheaper to convert than a long-wheel Ducato. More space = more materials, more work, and a higher cost. Check out our guide to the best vans for conversion in Ireland to see which one might suit you.
2. Level of finish
Do you want a simple set-up for weekend surf trips, or a van you can live in comfortably year-round? A basic conversion keeps things affordable, while a full custom build with cabinetry, heating and solar adds up quickly.
3. Electrics
This is where costs can vary a lot. A simple battery system for lights and phone charging is included in a basic build. But if you want to power fridges, hobs, or laptops, you’ll need inverters, multiple batteries, and possibly solar panels, which pushes the price into the higher bracket.
4. Appliances
Fridges, heaters, ovens, even showers, these bring comfort but also add serious cost. Even a compact 12V fridge is €400–€800 before we install it.
5. Materials & sustainability
We work with standard materials, but also offer eco-friendly options like cork insulation or reclaimed timber. They look amazing and are better for the planet, though they’ll add a bit to the budget.
Basic vs full conversion – which suits you?
Here’s a quick comparison of what you get with Saor:
| Basic Conversion | Full Conversion | |
| Price range | €5k–€10k+ | €20k–€30k+ |
| Good for | Weekend trips, festivals, short adventures | Full-time living, longer road trips, year-round comfort |
| Features | Insulation, bed, storage, simple lights & electrics | Kitchen, solar, appliances, heating, premium cabinetry |
| Pros | Affordable, quicker, flexible | Comfortable, high resale value, designed for all seasons |
| Cons | Limited facilities, less suited to long trips | Higher investment, longer build time |
DIY vs professional van conversion
Plenty of people start off thinking they’ll go DIY. And while it can be fun, there are risks:
DIY conversion
Cheaper overall- Loads of learning and satisfaction
Takes months (or years!)- Mistakes can be costly — especially electrics
Professional conversion
- Done safely and efficiently
- Expert design makes the most of your space
- Warranty and peace of mind
- Costs more than DIY
A lot of our clients start a DIY build and then bring us in when they hit the tricky bits (usually electrics, heating, or cabinetry). A hybrid approach can work well, but if you want the full job done properly, professional is the way to go.
Hidden costs people forget about
It’s not just the conversion itself. Don’t forget about:
- Insurance — campervan insurance in Ireland can take some paperwork.
- Road tax — varies depending on van weight.
- NCT / CVRT — conversions may need reclassification.
- Maintenance — vans aren’t new cars, so keep a budget aside.
How to budget for your conversion
A few tips from us:
- Start with the essentials. You can always add extras (like solar or heating) later.
- Make a list of must-haves vs nice-to-haves. Bed and insulation are a must. An oven? Maybe not straight away.
- Buy smart. Source materials and appliances in Ireland where possible to save on shipping.
- Keep a buffer. Set aside 10% for surprises (trust us, there’s always one).
No point spending thousands on a kitchen if all you want is a kettle for tea breaks along the Wild Atlantic Way.
So… is it worth it?
Absolutely. A van conversion isn’t just a cost, it’s an investment in freedom. There’s nothing like pulling up by the Atlantic, opening your back doors, and knowing your home is right there with you.
Ready to start your own build?
At Saor, we handle everything from basic conversions to full custom builds. Whether you want a simple weekend van or a full-time home on wheels, we’ll help you design a space that works for you.
Contact us for a free quote!
FAQs on Conversion Costs
How much does it cost to convert a van in Ireland?
Anywhere from €3,000 for a basic set-up to €20,000+ for a full custom build.
What’s the cheapest way to convert a campervan?
Do the basics: insulation, a bed frame, storage, and simple electrics. Keep appliances minimal.
Can I do my own electrics in a van?
We’d advise against it unless you’re fully confident, van electrics can be challenging, frustrating and not to mention dangerous. Most people DIY the basics and get a more experienced installer to handle electrics.
How long does a van conversion take?
DIY builds can take months. A professional build is usually 4–8 weeks full time depending on spec.