Camping holidays keep their cool
Camping really is cool according to figures just out from European specialist holiday and activity group Holidaybreak, which has enjoyed its best year since 2003 and is reporting a positive outlook for 2009.Despite holidaymakers increasingly watching their money, Eurocamp and Keycamp – from Holidaybreak’s Camping Division - performed well during summer 2008. Year on year revenues were up by 1 per cent, despite a 5 per cent reduction in capacity and Keycamp reported its best ever year.
Collectively, the two well known brands hold an estimated 65% of the European tour operator market for pre-erected tents and mobile homes in Europe. Between them they took over 500,000 holidaymakers to Europe and, new for 2008, to Florida; evidence that confidence still exists in good quality, value holidays from reputable brands.
In recognition of such quality and value, Keycamp has just been awarded Travel Trade Gazette’s specialist tour operator of the year 2008. The Guardian, Observer and guardian.co.uk Travel Awards 2008 has also just ranked Eurocamp in the top five tour operators.
Said Robin Parry, deputy managing director of Holidaybreak’s Camping Division: “We have seen excellent sales for 2008 and it’s down to two factors; families going on holiday are keen to seek out the best value for money and, against the backdrop of airline and holiday company collapses, they also want to travel with companies who represent least risk.
“Holidaymakers recognise that our menu based pricing allows them to budget effectively and accurately, while the reputation we have built during 30 years of successful business - allied to our ABTA membership and ATOL licence – is a major reassurance for them.” he added.
For example, the cost of a self-drive holiday in May half term for a family of four on the Côte d’Azur is from £487 for seven nights, including Dover-Calais ferry crossing. That’s just over £120 each per person.
The resurgence in this style of holiday is primarily based on its ability to combine something that works for parents and children alike. The appeal for parents is a holiday in a natural environment, with the necessary home comforts, plus the freedom to relax, safe in the knowledge that the children are entertained. For kids the excitement comes from the adventure of meeting other children from different countries and being active outdoors without too many rules and restraints.
While the price of this style of holiday makes it very attractive and affordable, the product has unquestionably benefited from Holidaybreak’s innovation. Keycamp brought the concept of tree houses to the market in 2008 and, building on its success, has an even bigger programme planned for 2009. Both brands now offer holidays to the USA with the option to hire an RV.
Added Robin Parry: “Interestingly, over the last few years we have seen a significant rise in the number of adults without children travelling with us, as they appreciate the freedom and flexibility our type of holidays offer. In percentage terms, in the last two years the volume of couples travelling with us has increased by 12%.”
Considering the outlook for summer 2009, Robin Parry comments: “We will still be investing in the programme, in order to attract new entrants to the market, and we are expecting consumers to continue demanding value and flexible pricing. Mindful of the impact of the economic situation on families’ household budgets, we believe this could be the time that some holidaymakers try our style of holiday for the first time. Indeed, early signs are encouraging with more new customers booking with us this year than last year.’’
For further information visit holidaybreak.co.uk, eurocamp.co.uk and keycamp.co.uk.
