GfK Germany survey: happier and healthier if you travel by motorhome or with a caravan

Vacationers who travel by motorhome or with a caravan are not only happier than the average population, they also report great benefits for their health and the environment. This is the result of a GfK survey commissioned by the Caravaning Industrie Verband (CIVD, the RV manufacturer association), which polled 2001 people about their interests in vacations, well-being, and their attitudes toward nature and sustainability.

The results of the study show that travelers who spend their vacations with an RV evaluate their existence more optimistically than the rest of the respondents. The target group is also characterized by a strong interest in nature and sustainability issues. “The fact that people who travel by RV are happier is an incentive for our entire industry. This type of vacation is an experience that clearly satisfies the primary needs in terms of satisfaction, sustainability, and contact with nature,” said Daniel Onggowinarso, CIVD managing director. And indeed, the answers given by the respondents have to do with psychological aspects related to good mood and feeling in tune with nature. Issues of sustainability and preservation of natural areas are central to people who travel by RV, according to Dr. Isis Mennig, head of the GfK survey.

Reasons and numbers

The popularity of traveling trips and the great emphasis on nature and sustainability represent a huge potential for many reasons. This type of vacation is no longer a pandemic-proof way to travel, but also an environmentally friendly way to travel, adding value to tourism, especially in rural areas. Indeed, areas that are still underdeveloped can take advantage of this potential, as the investments needed are relatively small and can be implemented quickly. Environmental compatibility is one of the reasons why young people in particular are interested in RV vacations. So, sustainability and experience in nature will play a very important role in the future, especially in the travel industry.

79% of RV travelers would agree with the statement “I am a happy person and in a good mood“. 65% agree with the statement “I am optimistic about my future“: this is a 10 percentage point increase over the average population. The statement “I try to move in an environmentally friendly way in everyday life” was affirmed by 66% of RV and caravan vacationers.