Fine weather puts the fun back into camping

Caravanning and camping is back in vogue in Ireland — with numbers up by more than 30% in the last two years.

As this year’s caravan and camping season kicks off, latest figures from the CSO show that, after years in the doldrums, the number of people choosing to go on a camping or caravan holiday are steadily rising.

According to chairperson of the Irish Caravan and Camping Council (ICC) Con Quill, caravan and campsite operators are reporting a return to growth in the sector after a number of very difficult years.

“Sixty-seven percent of caravan and campsite operators reported increased visitor levels with all citing the fine weather experienced in 2013 as a driving factor,” he said.

The ICC, which is composed of approximately 84 Fáilte Ireland-registered caravan and camping park operators, found the majority of those who holidayed at caravan and camping parks last year stayed for between one to seven nights, visiting two to three parks during their trip.

Some of the most popular reasons for choosing a caravan and camping holiday were the family-orientated nature of the holiday (26%), to get the outdoor experience (23%), the freedom to come and go as you choose (21%), and value for money (17%).

Mr Quill pointed out that the majority of people (61%) who camped in Ireland last year were trying it out for the first time. Last year in particular also saw an uptake of families arriving with their car and tent (58%) and a significant percentage (30%) camping on the recommendation of friends or family.

“We’re experiencing a lot of repeat business this year, especially from families and our long-term seasoned camping couples,” said Mr Quill.

The ICC found that the wide selection of amenities available, the beautiful locations and surroundings of the parks, the friendliness of the staff and the well-maintained facilities, were also quoted as enticing reasons to go camping.