Old School Vans and Ecology

At Balkan Campers, we’re deeply aware of the environmental impact of tourism, and we’re committed to adapting our practices to minimize harm to the planet.

The first step? Breaking free from the endless growth mania. The pursuit of constant (and often material) growth is taking a devastating toll on our planet. Instead of chasing “more,” we focus on optimizing what we already have, prioritizing sustainable practices that reduce emissions and enhance carbon sinks.

And what’s the most effective, time-tested carbon sink? Nature and forests!

Together, Let’s Reduce Our Carbon Footprint

We’re working hard to reduce our CO2 footprint, and we’re inviting you to join us on this mission. One way is through our tree-planting initiative. Many of our amazing guests choose to plant a tree before their Balkan road trip, helping to offset the environmental impact of their adventure.

🌳 Thank you for planting with us and caring for our planet!

Learn more about how you can make a difference: Reduce Your CO2 Footprint

Supporting Local Sustainability Heroes

We’re not just about camper vans; we’re also about protecting the natural world we love so much. That’s why we support organizations like Balkan River Defence, who fight tirelessly to preserve the last wild rivers in the Balkans. These pockets of untouched wilderness are vital for biodiversity and climate resilience.

And stay tuned—exciting new sustainability projects are in the works for this year!

What About Old-School VW Camper Vans?

You might be wondering about the carbon footprint of our beloved vintage VW camper vans. Are they really more sustainable than modern vehicles?

We’ve done the research, and here’s the truth: it’s complicated.

For every new car produced, a hidden environmental cost is baked into the process. Here’s why:

• Raw materials like metal ores must be extracted, refined, and transformed into car parts.

• Hundreds of additional materials—plastic, rubber, fabric, and glass—must be manufactured and transported across the globe.

• The global car industry generates emissions not just in production but also in relentless marketing efforts, convincing us we “need” the latest models to feed the insatiable growth machine.

When you think about all the energy and resources poured into making a single new car, it raises a big question: Is keeping a well-maintained vintage vehicle actually more eco-friendly?

Our Vintage Camper Van Philosophy

We do everything possible to keep our beloved VW vans in tip-top shape, and that starts with embracing the 3Rs: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.

• Maintenance is key. A well-maintained van is more fuel-efficient and produces fewer emissions.

• Recycling spare parts. Whenever possible, we use second-hand parts from fellow camper van enthusiasts, giving these components a second life.

• Saving gas. One of our earliest mottos still holds true: "Save gas, drive slow, and enjoy the trip."

By taking care of these iconic vehicles, we’re not just extending their lifespan—we’re making a statement against today’s throwaway culture. In a world where things are cheap and easily discarded, we’re choosing to appreciate and cherish what we already have.

Love the Journey, Love the Planet

At Balkan Campers, our mission goes beyond renting vans. We’re building a community of travelers who value sustainability, cherish nature, and love life on the road. So as you plan your next adventure, remember the 3Rs & 1L:

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle—and Love.

Together, we can enjoy the journey while protecting the planet for generations to come.