Data shows that camping holidays have been growing in popularity in recent years. Why are so many people rediscovering or discovering this type of holiday? What’s driving such a rapid growth in interest in nature experiences? In the following article, we explore why camping holidays are becoming more and more attractive.
Freedom and nature
New life after Covid-19
Do you remember the days when we couldn’t go anywhere, couldn’t see each other, and many coveted holidays were cancelled? Fortunately, this is a thing of the past. However, the post-pandemic period has also brought positive changes, as more and more people have realised the beneficial impact that spending time in nature can have on our lives. When the world finally returned to normal, interest in tent and caravan holidays began to grow rapidly.
Since then, it seems that the popularity of camping holidays has been rising. In 2023, people in Europe spent 3.2% more days on camping holidays compared to the previous year. In this period, many countries set a new record for overnight stays, even surpassing the record year of 2019.
It’s possible that some were initially drawn to camping holidays simply because they felt safer outdoors after the Covid-19 pandemic. However, people soon discovered that this environment easily surpasses the atmosphere of a bed and breakfast or an expensive but impersonal hotel.
What do you expect from a holiday?
- Would you like to get away from it all for a while, have new adventures and fun moments?
- Is it important for you to get closer to your loved ones?
- Are you attracted to sweet idleness or are you more of a restless sportsman?
The camping holiday genre is so versatile that whatever you’re looking for, you’re bound to find it! An important milestone in this success story is that the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) declared the first-ever International Camping Day in 2022, providing a perfect opportunity for some outdoor fun. World Camping Day: 29 June
We are fans of camping holidays for all sorts of reasons. Some people love it for the beautiful green surroundings, others for the intimate moments of community. For some, it’s the tent, for others the caravan that brings this extraordinary feeling of life.
Trend or nostalgia?
For many, a camping holiday experience pushes the nostalgia button. Setting up a tent, a campfire, roasting food, hiking, observing an interesting bug – these things are just as captivating as they were in childhood. However, statistics also show that younger generations, millennials and Gen Z are increasingly opting for unique, outdoor travel options.
Mindfulness, stress relief
What represents joy in life and harmony with nature for the older generation is, for the younger generations, mindfulness, stress relief, and conscious self-care. Essentially one and the same, just a different approach. This is why a camping holiday can be an ideal family holiday, as generations can easily get to know each other in this special atmosphere. When setting up a tent, the tricks of the seasoned pros are just as valuable as the flexibility and technological savviness of the younger generation in planning activities.
The emergence of professional equipment also confirms that camping holidays are keeping up with trends and modern comfort requirements, while retaining the qualities that made us love it in the past.
When should you go on a camping holiday?
The availability of most outdoor resorts is seasonal. They are usually open from spring to autumn, but even the biggest ones fill up quickly during the peak summer season.
The summer bustle
July and August are particularly strong in North America and Europe. Statistics show that many European campsites are operating at almost full capacity at this time. These figures also show that more and more people are seeking true freedom in nature.
Watching the trends also offers some good advice:
If you haven’t already organised your tent or caravan holiday this year, you’d better do it soon, as the best places will sell out in no time!
Book early!
You can also find a price calculator through this link. Don’t worry, your booking will only be valid once you finalise it!
Discover the low and off season!
Although the peak summer season still dominates, more and more people are discovering the benefits of spring and autumn camping holidays. This is helped by the milder weather, which favours active activities and excursions, as outdoor activities are more enjoyable when it’s not so hot.
The main argument in favour of summer is often the opportunity to go swimming. If you love the beach, it’s understandable that you’d be in the habit of looking for a date in the hottest months. However, where there is a quality indoor thermal spa, such as in Zalakaros, the low season actually offers much greater comfort, as there are fewer tourists, which makes for a more relaxing and uninterrupted experience.
What are the main advantages of spring and autumn?
- pleasant weather
- much smaller crowds
- the infrastructure and natural beauty remain unchanged
- prices are more affordable
The secret of popularity
Exciting destinations
In Hungary, some campsites are particularly attractive to adventure-seeking travellers. The highest numbers of visitors are found where the area is also rich in activities. Holiday resorts with special qualities, the proximity of thermal waters and nature reserves are among the most attractive features.
In this respect, Zalakaros is in a fortunate position, as it boasts a thermal spa of European standard, with a unique thermal water composition and a very high mineral content. It also offers a rare combination of the Kis-Balaton, the Kápolnapuszta Water Buffalo Reserve and countless unique experiences:
- Canoe trip,
- sightseeing flight,
- excursions,
- thermal spa,
- cultural and sports facilities to complete your experience.
Excellent value for money
Camping holidays offer great value for money, making them a highly attractive holiday option. The price of a pitch is cheaper than a hotel stay and easily beats it in terms of experience. However, trends also show that Hungarian travellers no longer see camping holidays as “just a cheap way to go on holiday”, but as a fashionable and popular option, especially among young families and groups of friends.
The closeness of nature
What the generations before us have grasped so well is now the subject of great scientific interest. Research is constantly exploring the idea that nature can have a greater impact on our physicalmental health than we think.
What are the positive effects of nature?
Some studies show that time spent outdoors:
- lowers blood pressure,
- calms the nervous system,
- strengthens the immune system,
- increases self-confidence,
- reduces anxiety and stress hormones,
- improves mood.
Caravan under the shady trees of Thermal Camping Zalakaros
Camping holidays in Hungary
In summer, the most popular places are often 100% full. In addition to domestic guests, foreign campers have also returned to the wild and scenic landscapes of the Carpathian Basin. According to the National Tourist Information Centre, in 2023, the number of overnight stays increased, especially among German, Polish and Czech tourists.
Hungarian campsites are popular with tourists passing through, as Hungary is the perfect stopover on a European tour.
As can be seen in Zalakaros, the thermal water and unique natural features alone make it an attractive destination, which is why it’s worth planning a multi-day stop in this vibrant region.
An accommodation reminiscent of a forest environment with green groves, such as Thermal Camping Zalakaros, is a guarantee of perfect recharging. The neighbouring spa and the abundance of sports and activities are extras that make it worth returning.
Forward-thinking holiday planning
As camping holidays grow in popularity, so does the number of advance bookings. Understandably, no one wants to turn away from the gates of a camping holiday because of a “full house” sign.
Luckily, modern camping holidays also include an online presence. Therefore, the option to make an advance booking on the website is available.
Forward-thinking camping holiday planning nowadays also includes securing tent places and caravan pitches.
At Thermal Camping, the process is very simple, with just a few clicks you can secure your camping holiday. You can book a camping place online on our website.
Advantages of pre-booking
- By booking in advance you can secure your accommodation, so you don’t have to worry about whether there will be room on arrival.
- Once you have secured the date and pitch, you can start planning! You can browse the activities in the area, make a bucket list, and have time to buy the essential equipment for a camping holiday.
- With pre-booking, the adventure is guaranteed! As the date approaches, your mood will inevitably become more positive, as the excitement of preparation is part of the journey.
Book early!
You can also find a price calculator through this link. Don’t worry, your booking will only be valid once you finalise it!
What does a modern campsite offer?
Being close to nature is a key argument for choosing this a camping holiday, but modern expectations also make comfort a priority.
At Thermal Camping Zalakaros you will also find fully equipped air-conditioned apartments if you are attracted by this light-hearted lifestyle, but you wouldn’t want to give up the comforts of home.
And if you’re after a classic experience, choose a spacious camping place. Electricity and parking for one car directly on the camping place are included in the price. You can also opt for a comfort pitch for your caravan, where electricity, water and sewage connections make your stay even more comfortable.
There is a children’s playground, a communal kitchen, bathroom facilities and cosy fireplaces. And if you fancy a bit of exercise, football equipment, badminton and ping-pong tables are also available. The campsite is a great place to bring the family and even your pet.
Special features of Thermal Camping Zalakaros and the surrounding area:
- Nature and urban comfort: In the midst of a bustling holiday resort atmosphere, you’ll find this quiet green oasis where you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of a forest. Peace, birdsong and filtered sunlight in the shade of the huge trees.
- Excellent location: In the immediate vicinity of the accommodation you will find the Zalakaros Spa, the Thermal Lake and Ecoside, as well as the Karos Korzó, the most beautiful pedestrian street and programme venue in the town.
- Gastronomy: Locally, you’ll find the Camping Restaurant, one of the best in town. Sea fish, Hungarian dishes, and dessert specialties will be served on your plate here. Don’t miss out on the offerings from local wineries and the delicacies at the local farmers’ market.
- Adventures: The natural wonders of the area offer the opportunity for an active holiday. Half an hour’s drive away, nature reserves, special aquatic and birdlife, native buffalo and historic sites are waiting for you to explore.
The popularity of camping holidays is growing all the time, as they offer endless adventures. If you’ve never tried it before, now is the time to get started, and if you’re already an expert, now is the time to organise your next trip! We look forward to welcoming you to Thermal Camping Zalakaros, whether you’re seeking an authentic camping holiday experience or a comfortable apartment surrounded by nature.
Book early!
You can also find a price calculator through this link. Don’t worry, your booking will only be valid once you finalise it!