Data from Google further confirms that young people are embracing caravan holidays and even buying caravans of their own. More than a quarter (28%) of visitors to caravan websites in the last 12 months were under 45. Not only that, but one in five visitors (20%) to websites that sell caravans and motorhomes were under the age of 45.
In the four peak caravan purchase months of April to July 2014, Salop Leisure noticed a four-fold increase in people under the age of 35 enquiring about mobile and static caravans, compared to two years ago. It is not only young families that are being seen in growing numbers, but grandparents are bringing their grandchildren in for a joint purchase.
“We’ve clearly noticed that the average caravan user is younger than they were just a few years ago” said Mark Bebb, managing director of Salop Leisure. “There is a rising group of young consumers in their twenties and thirties who aren’t bothered by the stereotypical image of caravanners. They are embracing the freedom that this kind of holiday offers.”
“Our traditional caravan buyers are still coming in to the showroom, but we’re often seeing them accompanied by their grandchildren. Frequently, a mobile or static caravan is becoming a joint purchase for these family members, as they discover a shared interest in this kind of holiday.”
Membership of national caravan clubs also appears to be changing. Nikki Nichol, head of publicity at The Caravan Club, said: “We are seeing many young families in our membership. This is visible when you visit any Caravan Club site.”
With all the talk in the media about caravanning becoming ‘cool’, it seems this is beginning to be reflected in the types of people who enjoy caravanning. Many celebrities like Jamie Oliver, Kate Moss and Rio Ferdinand have declared their love of caravanning, which, according to Salop Leisure, is also helping to boost its reputation with younger people around the UK.
Data from Google further confirms that young people are embracing caravan holidays and even buying caravans of their own. More than a quarter (28%) of visitors to caravan websites in the last 12 months were under 45. Not only that, but one in five visitors (20%) to websites that sell caravans and motorhomes were under the age of 45.
Young bloggers, Charlotte (27) and Ben (33) are typical of the growing younger caravanners. They recently spent 18 months travelling in a 2004 Compass caravan: “We desired the freedom to set up camp and then explore in a car without having to re pack our camper. Therefore we knew a caravan car combo was the way to go.”
“For us it was practicality. We wanted a home that was mobile so that we could travel on a reduced budget. We were also fortunate in that we had savings to invest in a mobile home which would act as our mode of transport and the roof over our head, whereas most young travellers are travelling for a short period in-between employment or education so choose to rent instead.”
Marilyn Lindsay from Slough regularly takes her grandchildren on caravanning holidays. She says: “I bought my caravan for my grandchildren as I felt that a caravan holiday was not only cheaper but gave the kids wonderful adventures.”
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales.
She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
