Summer 2023 has been an extraordinary time for the camping sector in Spain, with exceptional results in employment and a constant influx of travellers. According to data from the Spanish Campsite Federation (FEEC), the national average occupancy reached an excellent 90% in July and August, with hundreds of establishments completely sold out. This positive trend is expected to continue until September 10th.
The Spanish camping summer was characterized by a somewhat uncertain start, with the instability of the weather especially affecting the north of the Spanish peninsula, including regions such as Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria and the Basque Country. However, from mid-July to the end of August, the sector saw an average occupancy of 90%, confirming forecasts of more than 25 million room nights and 5 million travelers in the period from June 15 to September 15.
Despite successes in employment, the camping sector faced a major challenge, represented by a 25% decrease in internal customer spending compared to previous years. This means that, despite the large number of customers, the establishments’ final income was negatively affected by lower consumption, particularly in restaurants and leisure activities within the campsites. Interestingly, spending in supermarkets within campsites increased by 5%, suggesting that visitors preferred to consume in bungalows and on pitches rather than in restaurants and beach bars within campsites.
Ana Beriain, president of the FEEC, commented on the exceptional summer of the camping sector in Spain, underlining how important it is for families to unplug for a few days, relax and forget about everyday problems. Despite the difficult economic times that Europe is experiencing, travelers seem to place great value on the camping experience, thus contributing to the success of a sector that has proven to be resilient and growing.
In conclusion, summer 2023 has been truly exceptional for camping in Spain, with record occupancy and a constant influx of travellers. However, the sector faces the challenge of declining customer spending, but its ability to adapt and its attractiveness to families make it an important segment of Spanish tourism. The key lesson is that despite economic hardship, the desire for a summer break remains a priority for many.
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