Keeping Calm and Camping On: Navigating Post-Election Travel Concerns for Outdoor Hospitality

The August 2024 MC Camper Compass report titled Keeping Calm and Camping On: Navigating Post-Election Travel Concerns for Outdoor Hospitality explores the impact of the upcoming U.S. presidential election on fall and winter camping plans, particularly how campers are responding to concerns surrounding potential election-related instability. This report uses data from a survey conducted by Cairn Consulting Group to analyze the percentage of campers delaying or canceling trips due to fears regarding the election’s aftermath. These concerns have caused approximately one-fourth of campers to alter their plans, with tent campers and glampers showing the highest rates of delay or cancellation. Families also exhibit a higher likelihood of delaying trips compared to non-family campers.

The types of trips impacted include camping trips and air travel, with families showing the highest rates of cancellation. Delays in trips vary, with many campers postponing for less than a month, while one-third remain uncertain about their plans. Glampers and RVers are among the most undecided, while families tend to have more clarity on their trip postponements. The uncertainty surrounding post-election plans is reflective of broader concerns about safety, financial instability, and the potential for violence at destinations.

Financial reasons are the most common cause for canceling or delaying trips, followed by safety concerns, including fears of violence. A significant number of campers prefer to stay closer to home due to these concerns, with Hispanic campers being the most likely to express safety worries. In addition, many campers view camping as a less divisive and stress-relieving form of travel compared to other options. This sentiment is particularly strong among Gen X campers, families, and women, indicating that camping provides a unique opportunity for people to come together, even in times of societal tension.

To address these concerns, campground owners are advised to emphasize safety and security measures, offer flexible booking policies, and promote camping as a stress-relieving, local getaway. Special post-election promotions and discounts are also recommended to ease financial concerns and encourage bookings. By addressing the specific fears of hesitant campers, campgrounds can alleviate concerns and potentially maintain steady visitation during the post-election period.

Key Insights:

• One-fourth of campers have canceled or delayed their fall plans due to the election.

• Tent campers are most likely to make changes, with 32% delaying their trips.

• Glampers (52%) are the most likely group to delay or cancel, while hotel/resort guests are the least likely.

• Families are more likely to delay their trips (33%) compared to non-families (20%).

• Financial concerns and safety fears are the main reasons for cancellations or delays, with 42% of campers expressing concerns about traveling.

• 54% of campers view camping as a less divisive form of travel compared to other options.