Experts predict that the 2024 solar eclipse will be the biggest travel day in history. The event, which will take place on April 8, 2024, will be visible across North America, with the path of totality stretching from Texas to Maine.
This rare celestial event is expected to draw millions of tourists to cities and towns along the path of totality, as well as to nearby areas.
Campspot, a camping software provider and online consumer marketplace for campground reservations, reports that searches are already up nearly 120% across all US states for stay dates including April 8th, 2024.
For those states in the full path of totality, searches on Campspot for stay dates including April 8th, 2024 are up more than 700% year over year.
With the 2024 solar eclipse expected to have a significant impact on the economy and tourism and city officials preparing for an influx of visitors, Campspot is urging its campground partners to get ahead of this once-in-a-lifetime event.
“The upcoming eclipse is a tremendous opportunity. Learning from past events, we want our campground partners to be more than prepared with the tools they need to take advantage of this rare phenomenon, whether or not they’re in the direct path,” said Erin Stender, Campspot CMO.
Campspot created an insider cheat sheet of everything campgrounds need to know, and recently hosted a webinar series in partnership with Douglas Arion, an astrotourism expert and professor emeritus of physics and astronomy at Carthage College.
Viewable on the tips page, this series covered campground marketing ideas and revenue-boosting tips. Top recommendations for campgrounds include:
1. Consider special events you can host before, during, or after the event.
2. Connect with local astronomy enthusiasts at nearby clubs or colleges who can help host the events.
3. Start planning today. Now is the time to think about packages and pricing, eclipse gear, special retail offerings, and more.
Whether for experienced astronomers or casual campers, camping offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural wonder of the 2024 eclipse.
With the right preparation and planning, visitors and campgrounds alike can enjoy a memorable experience that will be remembered for years to come.
Featured image from Campspot