Positive Outlook: UK & EU Camping & Caravanning Sector

The UK Caravan and Camping Alliance (UKCCA) released the Economic Benefit Report this Month (February 2025), recording that the sector including holiday parks and campsites generated a whopping £12.2bn in visitor expenditure in 2024.  How does the UK compare to other markets in terms of their passion for the great outdoors ?

Globally, projections indicate a rise from $69.3 billion in 2023 to $72.82 billion in 2024, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.1%. This growth has historically been fueled by factors like being a more affordable alternative to traditional holiday options, rapid technological advancements, an aging population, and trends in early retirement. Millennials, or Generation Y, born between 1980 and 2004, are a significant driving force in the camping and caravanning market. The forecasted period anticipates a continued upward trend, further propelling the camping and caravanning industry.

Which are the most Popular EU Destinations  ?

Eurostat have consistent and up to date figures for 27 member EU nations with data covering arrivals at camping grounds, vehicle parks and trailer parks. There were 92.1m arriving visitors to these venues in 2023. France is the most popular destination with 32.2m visitors, more than double the next most popular destination Germany.

Although the UK is not reported in the EU figures since 2020, pre-Brexit figures were at a stable 16m arriving visitors per year which would place the UK at the higher end of the EU table.

Long weekend camping is the most popular and 1/5 of people stay over 7 nights

• 38% of campers stay for 2 to 3 nights
• 23% stay for just 1 night
• 18.5% stay between 4 to 6 nights
• 20.5% stay for over 7 nights

Diverse Demographics: Middle Age Couples are 1/3 and Families represent another 1/3 (plus growth Youth & Solo Travellers)

• 30% of campers are middle-aged couples
• 18.5% are families with older children
• 15.5% are senior couples
• Other categories include young couples (14.5%), families with babies (9.5%), solo travellers (8.5%), and single parents (3.5%).

The Sector in the UK represents 5% of all UK Tourism 

The UK Caravan and Camping Alliance (UKCCA) do not report comparable visitor numbers to the EU but do have updated statistics on the growing number of facilities, full time employees and time spent by visitors. All areas have  seen positive growth YOY. The holiday parks and campsite sector represent 5% of the overall UK Tourism GDP of £214bn.

Same data as the above chart show as percentages:

How the Home Nations Differ:

• England has by far the most facilities with 70%+ of the Holiday Park and Campsite total
• When we consider population numbers, Wales has by far the highest number of facilities per head of population. This is a substantial tourist offering within the beautiful Welsh landscapes
• In terms of landmass density, Scotland and Northern Ireland boast the most space allocated per facility. This provide more unique experiences, uncluttered environments and more remote locations

Looking to the Future - Camping & Caravanning Market Trends

• Millennials
  The camping and caravanning market is being driven by millennials, who are increasingly interested in outdoor activities like camping. With the millennial population expected to grow to over 1.3 billion by 2040, there is a growing demand for camping gear, caravans, and outdoor experiences. This demographic shift is expected to continue to boost the market.
• Popularity of remote and off-grid camping:
  Camping is often considered a budget-friendly travel choice compared to traditional hotel stays. Remote and off-grid camping is growing in popularity as campers seek solitude and a deeper connection with nature. in 2023, 18% of campers chose off-grid experiences, often in locations away from traditional campgrounds.
  
  

The UK market is in a healthy state with many campsite options to explore across the home nations, so yes the country is a nation of outdoor lovers.  With Europe on the doorstep, there is a great opportunity for those with an adventurous heart... and the right equipment to explore. Each and every one of the 27 EU countries have facilities, so there is a great range of well catered campsites from the most popular and well known to the most remote locations.  There is so much to explore, especially the landscapes of the eastern Europe. 

Goatfell Demountable Campers are designed to perfectly complement the pick-up trucks market in the UK. Our concept is travel light, travel big, allowing you to travel more miles and have more adventures. They offer a range of lightweight yet robust campers that are specifically designed for the UK market. Whether you're looking for a compact camper for solo adventures or a larger model for family getaways, Goatfell has a solution to suit your needs. Contact us today to learn more about our range of campers and how we can help you create your perfect mobile adventure base. 

sources: Eurostat, UK Caravan and Camping Alliance, Camping and Caravanning Global Market Report, USA Outdoor Industry Association, Australian Trade and Investment Commission