The new MC Camper Compass report, “Moving Targets: Adapting to Booking Window Changes” explores the evolving preferences and behaviors of campers regarding trip booking. Initially, many campers intended to shorten their booking windows, hoping for more spontaneous trips. However, the reality of the 2024 camping season revealed that fewer campers adopted this approach. Confident early decision-making and fewer weather concerns led to many maintaining or even extending their advance booking periods.
Notably, demographic shifts played a role in these trends. Urban travelers, crossover travelers (those considering multiple accommodation options), and RV users showed higher rates of last-minute bookings. Despite this, only about 22% of campers carried out spontaneous trips, despite over half expressing the intent to do so. This indicates a potential gap between intentions and actions, influenced by external or personal factors leading to changed or canceled plans.
The report also highlights the decline in “reservation stacking” practices, which had become popular as campers tried to secure spots during times of heightened demand. In 2024, this behavior decreased significantly, dropping by more than half compared to 2022. This decline suggests a reduction in perceived or experienced overcrowding at campsites, allowing for more efficient planning and fewer backup bookings.
To adapt to these changing dynamics, the report suggests campgrounds should enhance flexibility in booking options, marketing strategies, and engagement with campers. By offering incentives for last-minute bookings and promoting off-season stays, campground operators can cater to emerging trends and preferences, ultimately leading to more satisfied campers and potentially increased visits.
Key Insights
51% of campers initially intended to book closer to their travel dates, hoping for more spontaneity.
Reservation stacking decreased significantly, from 42% in 2022 to 18% in 2024, reflecting a decline in the need for backup bookings.
RV users and urban travelers showed a preference for last-minute bookings, though many still opted for earlier planning due to various factors.
Campgrounds offering flexible booking options saw a noticeable increase in spontaneous bookings.
23% of RV users shortened their booking windows, showing a preference for last-minute decisions.
Only 22% of campers followed through with spontaneous trips, despite earlier intentions.
36% of campers cited fewer weather concerns as a reason for maintaining or extending their advance booking periods.
Crossover travelers are more likely to keep their options open by shortening booking windows, but many eventually booked earlier to secure spots.