In the previous twelve months sales of caravans and camping accessories have reached levels that have never been reached before. A current market report estimates that thanks to an increase in the popularity of caravan and camping holidays approximately two billion pounds have been inserted into the UK economy. Commentators are now realising that camping and caravan holidays are now the most popular form of holiday in Britain. While the reasons for this are wholly unclear, some have attributed this rise in caravan sales and camping equipment to a greater recognition of the beauty of the British mainland and the benefits of outdoor holidaying.



Whilst on holiday campers and caravan owners are estimated to spend around thirty pounds daily in local amenities and tourist attractions. This figure may not sound much at face value, but taken across the breadth of the caravanning community it quickly becomes vast. Included in this daily spend are petrol sales as well as sales of food and drink. With a figure of around seventeen million camping and caravan holidays taking place annually it is easy to realise where the two billion pound injection comes from. Added to the thirty pounds a day spent locally, if this figure was to take into account caravan park and campsite fees it would be almost fifty pounds a day.

While the pub trade in Britain is currently suffering a loss in alcohol and food sales generally, it is caravan and camping holidaymakers that are keeping it afloat. The same report researched the spending habits of holidaymakers in Britain and found that almost fifty seven percent spent their money in pubs on food and drink. In addition to the money spent in pubs and local eateries, British tourist attractions are also benefitting from the increased popularity of camping and caravanning holidays in terms of ticket sales. Around seventy percent regularly visit UK tourist attractions while holidaying.

As well as the economic benefits in terms of sales of tickets, food and drink the environment is also experiencing the pros. The majority, almost eighty five percent of campers and caravan holidaymakers prefer to walk to their destination rather than drive. Not only does this show that this type of holiday is better for the environment, it is also better for your health as the outdoor pleasures of walking and cycling are realised; further boosting the UK economy with sales of hiking equipment and bicycles.

It is a symptom of the modern world that rural economies are suffering greatly. It is thanks to those Brits that are holidaying in the countryside that these rural places are keeping their heads above water. The sales of food and drink in local pubs and restaurants as well as the money poured into local shops helps keep the businesses in small towns and villages afloat. Without this key contribution the high streets of these rural idylls would most likely be desolate and abandoned.

The link between caravan and camping holidays and good health does in fact seem to be viable. In another survey it was found that a regular outdoor holiday helps to increase a feeling of wellbeing and health. Almost all campers and caravaners were adamant that their holidays positively impacted upon their lives. This is probably due to this type of holidaymakers being more inclined to undertake activities such as walking, cycling and swimming.

As fuel becomes an evermore precious resource it seems clear that sales of caravans will increase. While you may still have to fork out for fuel to get to your destination, it is still a cheaper option than going abroad. In the current climate of tight purse strings it can be ascertained that the popularity of camping and caravan holidays will increase; the affordability can be considered a major appeal as after the initial outlay is made, subsequent holidays can be take for next to nothing. Undoubtedly we will see the popularity of caravan and camping holidays go from strength to strength in coming years.