With each new year comes the trend reports for the coming 365 days. Will travelers want to invest in minimalist outings or go big with glamping? Are they traveling far or staying in their own backyard? While we’ll never know exactly what travelers are going to do with their time, we do know there are general trends to be aware of as you’re planning for your season.
- Travelers are ready to be more spontaneous
While the pandemic made it difficult, if not impossible, to make any kind of travel plans on a whim, many people now are willing to embrace their inner spontaneity and take off on a trip on a moment’s notice. That makes this a good time to promote any sudden openings you have due to cancellations or any “last-minute” deals you have to offer.
- People can’t wait to reconnect
Over the past few years, people have had to cancel family reunions, trips with friends and other get-togethers for obvious reasons. Now that many of them are ready to get back out there and reschedule these much-anticipated events, it’s a good time to let them know that gathering outdoors at your campground is a great, healthy way to do that. Help them make that decision by letting them how your campground can accommodate them, whether it’s through campsites and/or cabins grouped together, use of a recreation hall, group activities or other amenities that can help them schedule—and enjoy—the gatherings they’ve been waiting for.
- It’s game on for thrill-seekers
After being cooped up for so long, some people are craving the adrenaline rushes they’ve been missing. So let campers know what kind of adventures you have available nearby such as ziplining, rappelling or sky diving.
- For many, mindfulness is top of mind
Living through a pandemic has led many people to reflect on what’s really important in life. That makes this an ideal time to remind prospective campers about the benefits of spending time outdoors with family and friends. The Japanese even have a practice called shinrin-yoku. It means “forest bathing” and emphasizes how time spent immersed in nature is good for us, both physically and emotionally. Going camping can also give adults and kids an opportunity to unplug and step away from the screens for a bit and focus on creating memories together, instead.
- Fido and fluffy are coming along, too
According to the ASPCA, 23 million American households acquired a pet during the pandemic. Now that these furry friends have become part of the family, many campers want to bring them along. In fact, according to a survey by the company Mars Petcare, a provider of pet food and healthcare products, nearly three-fourths of pet parents ages 18-34 plan to bring their pets along when they travel. So if your park is pet-friendly, this is a good time to make sure that your website, app, campground listings, marketing materials and promotions clearly emphasize that fact and describe all of the pet amenities you offer.
By the way, one positive trend that came out of the pandemic was the implementation of contactless transactions. Many travelers have come to appreciate their convenience and want them to continue. So if your campground offers contactless check-ins, you’re already ahead of the game!
