Rising Accommodation Costs for Campers in Thuringia
Rise in Camping Site Fees at Certain Locations - Rise in fees at particular camping spots
Campers in Thuringia are facing increased expenses for accommodations this season, with some campsites boosting prices due to higher operational costs, according to site operators. This price hike also affects long-term campers.
The increased costs revolve primarily around personnel expenses and electricity fees. For instance, a representative from a campsite near Oberhof noted that securing staff has become challenging, and increasing wages is necessary to retain them. Consequently, the prices for overnight stays at this site have increased this year.
Similarly, the Campingplatz Hohenfelden (Weimarer Land) has bumped up its prices this year, citing increased personnel costs as the primary reason. The camping sites in Thuringia remain comparatively cheaper than other accommodations within the state, stating vacationing on a campsite as a cost-effective option compared to other types of lodging, according to Reinhard Schniz, chairman of the Association of Thuringian Camping Businesses.
Notably, the "camping.info" portal identified an average increase of around 4.2 percent for two people, including a pitch, caravan, electricity, and local tax in Thuringia compared to last year. The average cost now stands at 24.21 euros, making Thuringia one of the more affordable federal states for campers. In comparison, Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania charges 33.20 euros, while the German average is 28.86 euros.
The popular long weekends of Ascension and Pentecost remain fully booked each year, as reported by co-owner Manuela Zanker of the Campingplatz Meyersgrund near Ilmenau. Their calendar has been advantageous for camping enthusiasts this year, with relatively late Easter and a bridge day leading to good attendance at the sites. The booking situation for holidays also seems positive, Schniz added.
The ascendance of camping as a popular vacation choice in recent years is evident in Thuringia. In 2024, overnight stays increased by 6.1 percent compared to the prior year, surpassing 846,000, as reported by the Statistical Office of the State. Around 314,000 travelers spent their nights on the nearly 100 camping and caravan sites, averaging 2.7 days per stay.
Despite the price hikes, the rising demand for camping and outdoor travel continues, especially following the pandemic. Camping sites may invest in improving facilities like modern sanitary blocks, cabins, or advanced pitches, thus justifying the higher prices. Additionally, seasonal and regional factors, such as high demand during peak season or special events, can contribute to the price increases in Thuringia. Inflation and economic conditions on a broader scale may also impact tourism prices, including camping accommodations.
- In an attempt to cater to the growing demand for camping and outdoor experiences, community policies may need to consider providing subsidies for vocational training programs in the hospitality and tourism sector to ensure a steady supply of skilled workers and help maintain affordable prices for campers in home-and-garden and travel lifestyles.
- To alleviate the burden of high costs on long-term campers, vocational training programs focusing on green living and sustainability could be incorporated into camping sites, empowering campers with skills to reduce their carbon footprint during their home-and-garden and travel lifestyles, thus lowering the operational costs and making camping a more cost-effective option for all.
