Respect in camping: New group demands decency after the pandemic!

Respect in camping: New group demands decency after the pandemic!

The camping community has changed significantly in recent years. Especially since the Corona pandemic, camping has moved from a niche to the central focus of many vacationers. Andreas Egner, a passionate camper and initiator of a new Facebook group called “Camper ABC – Campers with Respect”, is actively committed to respectful coexistence among camping friends. “The good old days may be over, but we have to redefine the values,” explains Dr. Frank Schaal, head of the BVCD. More and more people are discovering camping as a safe and flexible form of vacation, which often leads to tensions between experienced campers and newcomers. According to Moin, the industry even reported a record number of around 42.3 million overnight stays in 2024.

What will it take to strengthen this new community? Egner believes that respect and decency should be brought to the fore again. In his online forum, he invests a lot of time and energy to ensure discussions remain respectful. He criticizes the harsh tone in many existing groups and advocates for a community that relies on old values. His concern also concerns behavior on campsites: for him, garbage disposal, keeping dogs on a leash and friendly neighbors are indispensable principles.

The trends in camping

But what will constitute camping in 2025? New technologies and environmentally friendly practices are entering the industry. As described in the Camping Guide, more and more campers are attaching importance to sustainability. Family camping is becoming more and more fashionable. Interestingly, 40% of respondents are already planning to travel with their family. This trend is supported by the growing number of multifunctional products and energy-efficient devices.

The demand for sustainably produced camping equipment is growing, and manufacturers are turning to recycled materials, such as tents made from recycled polyester. Innovative camping apps are also becoming increasingly popular as they make it easy to search, book and rate campsites. This not only makes the camping experience easier, but also more environmentally conscious.

The future of camping

Research and developments indicate that the demand for campsites will increase. Younger generations in particular, such as Millennials and Gen Z, are increasingly interested in a connection to nature and communal experiences. These groups currently make up about 37% of campers and are not only looking for adventure, but also social experiences in nature.

But what happens next? Economic trends and climate change are forcing the industry to change. Weatherproof materials and sustainable practices are becoming more important. This makes the camping landscape more accessible to different age groups and lifestyles. Advanced vehicles and autonomous travel offer new scope to be close to nature without polluting the environment.

In summary, the new camping scene remains diverse and constantly evolving. Platforms such as Recreation.gov provide assistance with planning and reserving activities, with a focus on exploring campsites and nature experiences. The desire for micro-adventures and less frequented places is growing - and this is a goal that will continue to be popular in the future.