This summer in Spain, vacations are all about outdoor living. Campsites are captivating holidaymakers, drawn by the idea of a vacation in close proximity to nature and affordable prices, despite a slight increase in rates. The month of August is witnessing almost complete occupancy, with an average occupancy rate of 90%. Moreover, 50,000 camper rentals have taken place in this hot Spanish summer. As of now, the sector has already recorded 40 million overnight stays and 9 million tourists, in line with the initial forecasts for the summer period.
Growing sector
The EFE news agency has gathered statements from Ana Beriain, the President of the Spanish Federation of Campsites (FEEC), who expressed satisfaction with the sector’s growth. She confirmed that this type of accommodation is today the second most popular nationwide. The rise of “glamping,” glamorous camping, is also contributing to the growth, attracting new tourists every day who used to opt for other types of lodging.
Regarding prices, there has been a 5% increase in campsite rates, attributed to rising costs of basic utilities such as electricity, water, and gas. The most affected services are catering and sports and recreational activities. The average family expenditure has been €140 euros, a commendable result considering the 20% drop in domestic consumption, achieved by maintaining the quality-to-price ratio, Beriain explained.
Extended season
The season is expected to extend until September, and possibly even October, due to favorable weather conditions and domestic tourism, which has increased by 40% in the last 10 years. If the forecasts hold true, an average occupancy rate of over 90% is estimated for campsites in the Mediterranean regions of Valencia, Andalusia, Murcia, and Barcelona, as well as for those in the northern part of the country (Galicia, Cantabria, Asturias, and the Basque Country) if the weather remains favorable.
According to the predictions, bungalows will be almost 100% occupied, while open spaces for campers, caravans, and trailers will have an 80% occupancy rate.
50,000 motorhome rentals
The motorhome sector is also enjoying a positive season, with growth that began in 2018 and surged (up to +260% in 2020) during the Covid-19 pandemic. According to data provided by the Spanish Caravaning Industry and Trade Association (Aseicar), 50,000 rental contracts were signed during the summer months alone, in addition to the 170,000 privately owned vehicles and around 50,000 owned by foreigners. The average rental period for one of these vehicles is about 7 days.
However, two factors are currently slowing down the sector, as explained to the EFE agency by Raúl Vaquero, the Executive Delegate of Aseicar. On one hand, the shortage of components due to the conflict in Ukraine is causing a limited availability of vehicles, slowing down the sector’s growth by 40% in the last year and a half. On the other hand, the increase in interest rates is affecting the potential financing of these vehicles, leading to a 25% decline. This has also led to a noticeable increase in vehicle prices.
On a positive note, a new customer base is emerging, with families and young individuals choosing motorhomes or vans for their vacations, engaging in sports activities such as surfing or rafting. Lastly, regarding spending on shopping and restaurants, the revenue forecasts for retail sales and dining amount to €230 million. The average daily expenditure per vehicle is €150, with an average travel duration of 7 days.
