To (re)discover the first part of this analysis, click here.

Campers with changing expectations and habits

Part of the reason why the outdoor accommodation sector has changed so much in recent years is to meet the changing demands of campers. Whether they are long-time fans of this type of accommodation or new campers discovering the joys of camping, they all have needs that are in tune with the times. They also all have their own reasons for choosing campsites as a holiday destination.

The FNHPA wanted to take a closer look at this and commissioned Opinion Way to carry out a survey on the main reasons why the French choose camping. Unsurprisingly, value for money tops the list (46%), followed by proximity to nature (27%) and conviviality (23%).

This top three reflects the times we live in. Inflation has had a major impact on the purchasing power of the French, prompting them to pay more attention to prices when they go on holiday. ‘And this year we are clearly expecting more demand for tents, caravans and camper vans than in previous years, for slightly cheaper accommodation,’ points out Nicolas Dayot.

The need for contact with nature, but also with other people, is largely the result of the consequences of the health crisis that isolated us for many months. Other major trends are also reflected in this ranking, such as the desire to rediscover the local area, its culture and heritage (14%), an ecological approach (6%) or the need to be close to home (4%). Both domestic tourism and sustainable tourism seem to be putting the spotlight on open-air hotels.

The price advantage also appeals to Spanish tourists, enabling campsites to consolidate their position as the second most popular accommodation option in Spain. The sector is doing everything it can to...