RMS North America released its annual State of the Industry Report, suggesting that camping sentiment is up across the board despite ongoing concerns about inflation.
The company, a provider of reservation and property management systems to the outdoor hospitality industry, said in a release that this year’s report examines all adult generations, from Gen Z to Baby Boomers, and offers insight into how each group approaches camping differently.
RMS North America conducted independent research on campers ages 18 to 60-plus, collecting data on the differences between generations, but also found similarities. While some thought the pandemic’s camping craze would dwindle, the demand for outdoor travel and recreation remains strong across the board.
“RMS North America has long had a vested interest in understanding generational differences and preferences when it comes to camping and outdoor recreation,” said Frederic Dominioni, chief revenue officer at RMS North America. “Building on our research from 2023 and our work with OHI, our goal is to equip our outdoor property partners and the industry at large with the data to make informed decisions that deliver elevated experiences for all campers and RVers.”
Key takeaways in the report include:
- Camping sentiment is up across the board despite ongoing concerns about inflation (from 56 percent to 62 percent).
- Millennials have the highest enthusiasm for tech of any age group at 57 percent, up from 19 percent in 2023.
- Email is the preferred method when communicating with a campground at 61.7 percent.
- Being out in nature was the dominant influence on campers when selecting a destination, at 47 percent.
- Campers’ primary methods to learn about new destinations are word-of-mouth and online search.
- Most campers want to see more tech included in the camping experience.
In addition to tech preferences across generations, the RMS 2024 State of the Industry Report details preferred types of camping (tent camping is number one) and factors that influence booking behaviors, like the natural surroundings of the campsite.
“This year’s research tells us that people of all generations are still camping frequently, despite the recent pandemic and inflation concerns,” continued Dominioni. “Campground and RV park owners need to keep in mind, however, that campers’ relationships to technology still reflect a desire for convenience while having access to a real person when needed. At RMS, this means we are continuing to provide industry partners with the user-friendly guest experience tools they need to succeed.”
