Episode Date: September 11, 2025
Location: Opende, Groningen, Netherlands
Morning at OB Ende
The day starts at OB Ende in Groningen, Netherlands. I stayed in a cozy cabin on the water at a campsite primarily for storing all my gear, making it easy to work on the vehicle later. The campsite was very well organized, and the owner, Andre Rautenberg, has traveled bungees himself.
Van Roof Modification
I visited JWG Camping NL, where I worked with Jeroen and Wiebe to install a roof opening in the van. The vent allows fresh air without leaving windows open, improving safety and reducing moisture while sleeping. We drilled holes in the corners, cut a 28cm square hole, and positioned the roof vent on top of the van. Climbing onto the tall vehicle was a challenge, but with Wiebe’s help, it got installed. Although it needed regrouting over the next few days, the modification was successful.
Wi-Fi Challenge
Back at the cabin, I discovered there was no Wi-Fi in the room, which was unexpected since it was one of the main reasons I picked the location. Trying to get a signal from the open camping field wasn’t very practical.
Evening at the Campsite
For dinner, I enjoyed pizza with a group of kids being cooked for at the campsite. The food was absolutely delicious. I highly recommend the Water Molen in Opende Camping for anyone visiting the area.
Takeaways
- Hands-on van modifications can be challenging but rewarding.
- Choosing a campsite is about more than comfort; connectivity matters.
- Local campsites like OB Ende offer great hospitality and unique experiences.
Thank you for following along on this van life adventure in Groningen. See you tomorrow for more!
