In a remarkable twist of camping trends, the latest MC Hospitality Highlights report titled “RV Search Trends: From Search Intent to Market Opportunity” has uncovered a shift in consumer interests within the recreational camping sector. According to the report’s findings, interest in car camping has skyrocketed by 41% since 2019, overshadowing a 14% decline in traditional RV popularity. Surprisingly, camping vans have also marked a significant surge, displaying a 34% increase in interest over the past five years.
The report takes readers on a journey through the evolving landscape of RV camping, as a new wave of adventurers seeks to explore the world through more accessible, affordable, and flexible means.
Scott Bahr, president of Cairn Consulting Group, explains, “This shift presents an exciting opportunity for campground owners to add to their strategy, catering to an emerging audience searching for value-driven and adaptable travel experiences.”
Delving deeper into the report, campground owners are offered practical strategies to seize this wave of new travelers—enthusiasts of the van life and car camping culture. By transforming campgrounds with van-friendly parking, simplified hookups, and rustic experiences, coupled with shared community spaces and scenic locations, campgrounds can cater to these fresh faces of travel enthusiasts.
“Modern Campground has always been about embracing change,” says Brian Searl, founder and CEO of Modern Campground. “This report guides campground owners in making informed decisions to welcome this new generation of campers.”
A remarkable observation within the report is the explosive interest in car camping. Some campgrounds, historically excluding car campers, might want to revisit such policies. Revamping campground facilities to embrace these preferences aligns offerings with trends and welcomes the evolving RV landscape.
The report concludes with an emphatic message to campground owners: Adapt and thrive by recognizing the values of affordability, flexibility, and freedom that attract van life and car camping aficionados. By nurturing this new traveler demographic, campgrounds can capture and sustain their interest, carving out a significant place in the competitive and ever-changing marketplace.
To download the November 2024 MC Hospitality Highlights report, visit moderncampground.com/mc-hospitality-highlights-november-2024.
Have questions or need more information? Reach out to Brian Searl via phone at 216-232-3105 or email at [email protected].
About Cairn Consulting Group
Cairn Consulting Group specializes in market research for data-driven decision-making. They aim to transform “dark data” into valuable insights through guided research. Their services include primary market research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, research study design, and strategic direction through market intelligence, among others.
About Modern Campground
Modern Campground, founded in 2021, is a dedicated news source for the outdoor hospitality industry, covering news that matters to RV park and campground owners, glamping resorts, and industry suppliers worldwide. It offers valuable insights and stories that impact the outdoor hospitality landscape.
About MC Hospitality Highlights
Launched in January 2024 by Modern Campground and Cairn Consulting Group, the MC Hospitality Highlights is a series of monthly reports. Each edition provides data-driven insights and guidance, empowering the outdoor hospitality industry to enhance guest experiences, drive revenue, and foster innovation.
