As the camping season unfolds, the “Moving Targets: Adapting to Booking Window Changes” report unveils a surprising twist in camper behavior. Despite an eager intent to embrace spontaneity at the season’s start, a surprising 22 percentage points lag reveals that fewer campers actually opted for impromptu trips.
Scott Bahr, president of Cairn Consulting Group, highlights the significance of this trend, stating, “What we’re observing is a gap between intent and action. This points to underlying factors that influence decisions; it’s a compelling look at how reality shapes our plans.” The report, a collaborative endeavor by Modern Campground and Cairn Consulting Group, delves deeper into these evolving patterns, offering critical insights into camper preferences and behavior.
Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Modern Campground, shares his vision for the future, “Campgrounds have an incredible opportunity to adapt and grow. By understanding these trends, we can tailor experiences that not only meet camper desires but elevate the camping adventure to new heights.”
This comprehensive study sheds light on the changing dynamics brought forth by demographic shifts. Urban adventurers, RV users, and crossover travelers, those exploring multiple lodging options, are taking advantage of last-minute bookings. Yet, the anticipated surge in spontaneous getaways did not materialize, with only a fraction of campers turning intent into action. This gap may highlight both external impediments and the intrinsic need for planning assurance, resulting in a decline in “reservation stacking” practices.
The findings encourage campgrounds to rethink strategies, enhance flexibility, and create incentives. By offering last-minute booking discounts and promoting shoulder season travels, campgrounds can better align with camper expectations. Such initiatives are not only about meeting current needs but are essential stepping stones toward a more vibrant, receptive camping community.
As campgrounds navigate this ever-evolving landscape, the MC Camper Compass report series offers a beacon. Each edition in this series enables campground operators to transform data-driven insights into real-world applications, enhancing user experience and fostering innovative growth in the outdoor hospitality sector.
Have questions or need more information? Reach out to Brian Searl at (216) 232-3105 or [email protected] – he’s here to assist.
About Cairn Consulting Group:
Cairn Consulting Group specializes in market research aimed at facilitating data-driven decision-making. They provide actionable insights through guided research, helping businesses connect critical data points and develop effective strategies.
About Modern Campground:
Modern Campground, founded in 2021, serves as a dedicated news source for the outdoor hospitality industry. Focused on providing valuable insights, they cover news crucial to campground and RV park owners and glamping resort operators.
About MC Camper Compass:
The MC Camper Compass is a monthly report series started in 2024, offering crucial insights into camper behavior to enhance experiences, drive revenue, and foster innovation within the outdoor hospitality industry.