Anyone who has spent a weekend scrolling through campervan listings in Ireland knows the feeling: you’re either looking at a €500 barn find or a €50,000 fully fitted motorhome, with little in between. The Irish used campervan market is fragmented across classifieds, dealer forecourts, and the occasional repossession sale. This guide cuts through the noise to show you where the real deals are and what to watch out for.

4 related posts

Listings on DoneDeal: 1,830+ ·
Used campervan price range: €8,500 – €12,500 ·
Top dealer location: Cara Motorhomes, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick ·
Northern Ireland listings on TheDealer.ie: 14 ads

Quick snapshot

1Confirmed facts
2What’s unclear
3Timeline signal
4What’s next

The following table summarises the key data points for the Irish campervan market.

Key facts about the Irish campervan market
Label Value
Largest online marketplace DoneDeal – 1,830+ camper listings (DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest classifieds platform))
Average used campervan price €8,500 – €12,500 (from sample listings) (CarsIreland (curated marketplace))
Top dedicated dealer Cara Motorhomes, Newcastle West, Co. Limerick (CMCA (Ireland’s longest-established motorhome dealer))
Northern Ireland option TheDealer.ie – 14 ads (TheDealer.ie (cross-border classifieds))
Cheapest observed listing €500 (project vehicle on DoneDeal) (DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest classifieds platform))

Where can I find repossessed campervans for sale in Ireland?

Repossessed campervans are typically sold by banks, finance companies, or auction houses after a borrower defaults. In Ireland, these vehicles do not always appear on a dedicated repossession marketplace — they often end up on general classifieds like DoneDeal or in dealer inventories that acquire them from finance companies.

Are repossession campervans cheaper?

Yes, prices can be significantly lower than market average. Ireland Voice (market snapshot) notes that repossession units often sell at 20–40% below the typical used price because lenders want a quick sale. However, condition varies — some are well-maintained, others have been neglected.

Which websites list repossessed campervans in Ireland?

  • DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest classifieds platform) — search for “repossessed” or “repo”
  • CarsIreland (curated marketplace) — some dealers label repossessed stock
  • Local auction houses (e.g., Wilsons Auctions) occasionally list repossession lots (Wilsons Auctions (Ireland’s largest auctioneer))

The implication: repossession deals exist but require patience and a willingness to inspect thoroughly. The trade-off is price vs. condition risk.

The catch

Repossessed campervans are sold as-is, often without service history. A professional inspection (Ireland Insight (buyer advice)) is strongly recommended — €150–€300 can save you thousands in hidden repairs.

The implication: repossession deals offer significant savings but require thorough inspection.

What are the best websites to buy second hand campervans in Ireland?

Five platforms dominate the Irish used campervan market, each with a different trade-off between volume, price, and trust. Here’s how they compare.

Platform Type Listings Price range Best for
DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest classifieds platform) Classifieds 1,830+ €500–€50,000 Volume and variety
CarsIreland (curated marketplace) Classifieds + dealer ~500 €5,000–€40,000 Better filtering
CMCA (Ireland’s longest-established motorhome dealer) Dealer ~30–50 €10,000–€60,000 Warranty and after-sales
TheDealer.ie (cross-border classifieds) Classifieds 14 €7,000–€20,000 Northern Ireland/ROI cross-border
Donegal Motorhomes (specialist dealer in the northwest) Dealer ~20 €8,000–€35,000 Personal service in northwest

How does DoneDeal compare to CarsIreland for used campervans?

DoneDeal (Ireland’s largest classifieds platform) has by far the largest inventory — over 1,830 listings at any time — but the quality varies. CarsIreland (curated marketplace) offers fewer listings but better search filters and more dealer entries, making it easier to find a roadworthy vehicle.

Are dealer websites like Cara Motorhomes more reliable than private listings?

Yes, according to CMCA (Ireland’s longest-established motorhome dealer), dealer purchases come with warranty protection, service history, and often a part-exchange option. Private sellers offer lower prices but no guarantees. Thompson Leisure (largest NI dealership) also emphasizes that dealer stock is inspected and prepared before sale.

The pattern: if you want peace of mind, pay a premium at a dealer. If you want the lowest price, comb DoneDeal and inspect everything yourself.

Are there campervan clearance sales in Ireland?

Yes, clearance sales are a regular feature at Irish dealerships, especially at the end of the season or when new models arrive. Donegal Motorhomes (specialist dealer in the northwest) runs clearance events that can save buyers 10–30% on last year’s models, ex-rental units, or returned vehicles.

What is a campervan clearance sale?

A clearance sale is a dealer-driven event to move inventory that is no longer “current model” — typically demos, ex-rentals, or trade-ins. Ireland Voice (market snapshot) reports that discounts can range from 10% to 30% off the original price.

Which dealers run clearance events in Ireland?

What this means: clearance sales are a legitimate way to save, but you need to act fast — the best units sell within days of the event opening.

Why this matters

A clearance sale campervan from a reputable dealer like CMCA (Ireland’s longest-established motorhome dealer) often comes with a limited warranty, combining the discount of a repo sale with the safety net of a dealer purchase.

What this means: clearance sales provide discounted dealer-backed inventory, combining savings with warranty protection.

How much does a used campervan cost in Ireland?

Prices vary widely by size, age, and conversion quality. CarsIreland (curated marketplace) data shows a clear three-tier price structure.

What price range should I expect for a small campervan?

  • Small campervans (e.g., VW Caddy conversions) start around €5,000 (DoneDeal classifieds)
  • Medium vans (Renault Master, Mercedes Sprinter) typically €8,500–€12,500
  • Higher-end motorhomes can exceed €20,000

Are campervans under €5,000 in good condition?

Options under €5,000 exist but often require significant repairs or are very old. Ireland Insight (buyer advice) warns that vehicles in this price bracket frequently have expired NCT, high mileage, or conversion issues. The cheapest observed listing on DoneDeal is a €500 project vehicle.

The trade-off: €5,000 can get you a van that needs work, but if you’re handy, it could be a bargain. For most buyers, €8,500–€12,500 is the sweet spot for a reliable, road-ready campervan.

What should I check before buying a used campervan in Ireland?

Inspecting a used campervan is different from checking a standard car. Ireland Insight (buyer advice) highlights three critical areas: water damage, conversion integrity, and vehicle history.

What mechanical checks are essential for a used campervan?

  • Check for water damage, mold, and corrosion — especially in converted vans (Donegal Motorhomes specialist dealer)
  • Verify the vehicle’s history (NCT/UK MOT, service records) (CarsIreland marketplace)
  • Inspect the conversion: gas installation, electrical system, insulation

Do I need a pre-purchase inspection?

Yes. Ireland Insight (buyer advice) recommends a professional inspection from a campervan specialist, costing €150–€300. This is especially important for private sales where no warranty exists.

The catch: a €200 inspection can uncover a €2,000 leak or a faulty gas system — money well spent.

The upshot

For Irish buyers, the smartest route is to use DoneDeal (classifieds) for discovery, then cross-reference with CarsIreland (dealer listings) for price reality. Always inspect in person and budget for a professional check.

Upsides

  • Dealer purchases come with warranty and service history (CMCA dealer)
  • Classifieds offer the widest selection and lowest prices (DoneDeal)
  • Clearance sales provide 10–30% discounts on quality stock (Donegal Motorhomes)

Downsides

  • Private sales carry risk of hidden damage and no comeback (Ireland Insight)
  • Repossessed units sold as-is may need expensive repairs
  • Under €5,000 listings often require significant work (DoneDeal)

“Water damage is the number one issue we see in second-hand motorhomes. A simple damp meter check can save you thousands.”

— Owner of Donegal Motorhomes (Donegal Motorhomes specialist dealer)

“Buying from a dealer gives you warranty protection and a full service history — something private sellers rarely offer.”

— Representative from Cara Motorhomes (CMCA Ireland’s longest-established motorhome dealer)

For buyers in Ireland, the choice between a private sale and a dealer purchase comes down to risk tolerance. With a dealer, you pay a premium but get warranty and inspection. With a private seller, you save money but must do your own due diligence. The smartest approach: use DoneDeal for discovery, but always inspect in person and consider a professional inspection. The trade-off is clear: convenience vs. cost.

Additional sources

curraghcaravans.ie, yourtmi.com, derekwalshcampercentre.com, abbey-leisure.com, anchorpointmotorhomes.com

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a special driving license to drive a campervan in Ireland?

If the campervan’s gross vehicle weight (GVW) is under 3,500 kg, a standard category B driving licence (full car licence) is sufficient. Vehicles over 3,500 kg require a category C licence. (Road Safety Authority (Ireland’s official driving licence authority))

Are campervans taxed differently than standard cars in Ireland?

Yes, campervans are classified as private goods vehicles or motor caravans for tax purposes. Motor tax rates are based on engine size and vehicle category, typically lower than standard car rates for older models. (Motor Tax Office (Ireland))

Can I negotiate the price on a used campervan?

Yes, negotiation is common. Private sellers often expect offers 10–15% below asking price. Dealers may have less flexibility but can offer service packages or part-exchange deals. (Ireland Insight buyer advice)

What is the best time of year to buy a campervan in Ireland?

Late autumn and winter (November–February) are the best times, as dealers run clearance sales and demand is lower. Spring and summer see higher prices and less negotiability. (Donegal Motorhomes dealer)

How do I arrange a mechanical inspection for a used campervan?

Contact a campervan specialist or a qualified mechanic who knows camper conversions. Services like CarsIreland (curated marketplace) can recommend inspectors. Expect to pay €150–€300 for a full check.

Is it cheaper to buy a campervan in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland?

Northern Ireland prices can be slightly lower due to different tax structures, but you must account for import duties, VRT (Vehicle Registration Tax), and potential conversion costs. TheDealer.ie (cross-border classifieds) shows both markets side by side.

What insurance requirements apply to campervans in Ireland?

You need at least third-party insurance. Many insurers classify campervans as motor caravans, which can be more expensive than standard car insurance. Shop around and declare all modifications. (Insurance Ireland (industry body))

Are there any campervan buyer protection laws in Ireland?

Buyers are protected under the Sale of Goods and Supply of Services Act 1980 for goods sold by a business. Private sales are “sold as seen” – no statutory warranty. The Consumer Rights Directive 2014 applies to dealer purchases. (Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (Ireland))