A WOMAN has revealed how she turned her campervan into a money making holiday home on wheels.
Nikki McIntosh, 52, bought herself a motorhome in a bid to broaden her horizons after she became depressed and anxious.
Despite never going on holiday in a motorhome before, Nikki bought the six-berth Dethleffs vehicle two years ago.
A few months after she purchased the van, she started renting her holiday home on Camplify – a website where van owners can rent out their vehicles.
Nikki listed the van, which has been dubbed Hare and There, for $275 (£141) New Zealand dollars.
Nikki told Stuff: "I love meeting new people, and playing a role in a holiday they will remember for life.
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"Each hire takes less time as I become more confident and aware of the RV, but I probably spend too long chatting to all hirers."
Since she listed the van on the website 18 months ago, Nikki has earnt over $50,000 (£25,678).
Not only has the cash helped pay for daily bills, including the cost of the van, but Nikki has also been able to use the money to go on holiday.
The 52-year-old, who lives in Wellington, New Zealand, recently drove around the West Coast of New Zealand at her leisure and she learnt about her family's history too.
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As well as bucket list trips, Nikkis has also enjoyed weekends away with her friends and the freedom to camp out at concerts in the comfort of a motorhome.
Nikki encouraged other would-be van owners to "think outside the square" when it comes to holidaying in a van.
She added: "They’re great for weeknight beach dinners, kids’ weekend sports, sleepovers when having a drink at friends’, extra room for guests, something to park up in just to read a book for a few hours."
Nikki isn't the only person who has made money and memories by renting out a van.
Leah Whitfield transformed a 2013 Vauxhall Movano in 2022 after she fell in love with life on the open road.
The PR and Communications manager for adventure travel company G adventures makes thousands by renting out the renovated camper.
Meanwhile Julie Tock and her partner Garry refurbed an old van into their dream holiday home and use the vehicle to travel for free.
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