Mobile holidays in Germany are reaching unprecedented levels of popularity, driving economic growth and fostering sustainable tourism initiatives.
In 2023, the number of overnight stays at campsites and motor caravan sites reached record highs, with 54.5 million stays at campsites and 13.5 million at motor caravan sites, according to the German Economic Institute for Tourism.
This surge generated a record tourism revenue of €19.5 billion, an 8% increase from 2022, demonstrating the growing appeal of caravanning as a travel option.
Industry stakeholders note that this growth not only benefits campsite operators but also has a ripple effect on local economies.
Approximately €6.4 billion of the revenue remains within the holiday regions, supporting businesses such as shops, restaurants, and service providers.
“Germany is becoming an increasingly attractive travel destination for caravanning holidaymakers, especially in areas beyond the classic tourist hubs,” said Daniel Onggowinarso, Managing Director of the Caravaning Industrie Verband e.V. (CIVD).
He highlighted the potential for local communities to leverage this trend through sustainable tourism infrastructure development.
In response to the rising demand, a new partnership has been formed between Deutscher Naturparke e.V. (VDN), Nationale Naturlandschaften e.V. (NNL), and the CIVD.
The collaboration aims to promote sustainable caravanning tourism in Germany’s protected nature reserves, which cover one-third of the country’s surface area.
These regions include 104 nature parks, 16 national parks, 18 biosphere reserves, and three wilderness areas, all of which are popular with nature-focused travelers.
The partnership seeks to balance tourism growth with environmental preservation. Plans include developing innovative site concepts that cater to travelers while protecting biodiversity and promoting regional economic development.
Pilot projects will test these concepts, to scale successful initiatives nationwide. Jan Wildefeld, Managing Director of Nationale Naturlandschaften e.V., described the initiative as a win-win in a press release.
“Travellers enjoy unique nature experiences with modern infrastructure, while innovative pitch concepts preserve and protect nature. At the same time, we are raising awareness among holidaymakers of the value of our nature and the importance of preserving it.”
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality industry, the rise of caravanning represents an opportunity to align business practices with sustainable tourism trends.
By investing in eco-friendly infrastructure and engaging with collaborative initiatives, operators can attract environmentally conscious travelers while contributing to regional development.
This approach not only supports long-term growth but also reinforces the industry’s role in preserving Germany’s natural landscapes.