The world of camping, like many other aspects of our lives, is undergoing a fascinating evolution. As we look ahead to the future of this space, a few emerging trends point to how the camping experience might transform. We recently had the pleasure of discussing these predictions with Victor, a camping expert and the creator of Camp Native and the Helpful Camping Newsletter.
Victor foresees a shift towards a more service-based model in the camping industry. Companies are already emerging that offer a variety of conveniences, like setting up campsites for families or delivering RVs directly to your site. Imagine driving into your campsite, with everything already set up for you. The minute you park your car or back your RV into the site, your vacation begins. There’s no need to wrestle with setting up a tent or other camping gear. This service-oriented model will significantly ease the burden of preparation and set-up, allowing families to truly relax and enjoy their camping experience from the get-go.
However, these changing dynamics also present challenges for campground operators, especially the smaller, family-owned ones. These campgrounds, where the true magic of camping often happens, are facing stiff competition from larger corporations entering the market. To stay relevant and competitive, these small businesses will need to embrace forward-thinking strategies, automation technology, and have a strong online presence. If they fail to adapt, they risk being left behind.
Another noteworthy prediction revolves around full-time travelers, a lifestyle choice that’s been gaining popularity. Victor believes there will be an increase in opportunities for full-time RVers, van-lifers, and bus converters to earn a living on the road, working from laptops, and not necessarily needing to work camp.
The emergence of “glamping,” or glamorous camping, aligns perfectly with these predictions. For families that might not have grown up camping but still want to immerse their children in the beauty of nature, glamping offers a hassle-free solution. Everything is set up for them in advance, allowing them to enjoy their vacation and the outdoors fully without having to worry about the intricacies of setting up a campsite.
The future of the camping space is undoubtedly on the cusp of a major transformation, likely to become more accessible and convenient while still retaining its essence as a natural escape. It’s an exciting time for camping enthusiasts and newcomers alike, and we can’t wait to see these predictions unfold.
