Our T4 Family Story
The Blackmore family—John, Jackie, Thomas, and Elliot—began camping adventures in 2014 exploring Southwest England and South Wales. After testing van life with a rental in 2017, we decided to purchase our own campervan in 2018.
Try Before You Buy: First Van Holiday
We hired Sebastian, a 2016 Volkswagen Transporter T6, for a week-long Welsh tour. The experience confirmed that van life suited us perfectly, prompting our decision to buy.
Buying Our First Campervan
After searching nearly a year, we found a 1999 T4 model with full service history and 184,000 miles. The van included our required features: pop-top roof, gas cooking facilities, and crash-tested rock-and-roll bed. We named it "Gino the Campo" and collected it April 5, 2018.
Tragedy and New Look
An October 2018 MOT failure revealed significant issues. Rather than abandoning the vehicle, we invested in restoration. Early 2019 saw Gino return with a distinctive Neptune Blue paint job that inspired similar builds among other enthusiasts.
Refit and Retro Fresh
Starting Boxing Day 2019, we completed a comprehensive interior rebuild including sound-deadening, insulation, new kitchen units from Majestic Wood Design, and a Scopema RIB112 bed. The finished build debuted March 2020, earning us a seven-page feature in VWt magazine.
Current Adventures
Today, Gino includes upgrades like an Autoterm diesel heater and expanded solar panels. The family continues exploring Scotland, France, and our favorite UK destinations, documenting journeys on social media while collaborating with brand partners.
Key Dates Timeline
- 2014: Began camping adventures
- 2017: Tested van life with rental
- April 5, 2018: Purchased Gino (1999 T4)
- October 2018: MOT failure and restoration decision
- Early 2019: Completed restoration with Neptune Blue paint
- December 26, 2019: Started interior rebuild project
- March 2020: Completed interior refit
- 2020: Featured in VWt Magazine
- Present: Ongoing adventures with brand partnerships
Our Journey in Pictures
