Rise in fees for specific campgrounds - Campsite Rate Hikes Observed in Certain Locations
Thuringia Camping Sites Boost Prices Due to Rising Operational Costs
In a bid to manage increasing operational expenses, camping sites across Thuringia announce price hikes for their services this season. These changes affect both short-term and long-term campers, as reported by site operators to dpa.
Personnel and electricity costs lie at the heart of the price surge. Operators cite higher wages and benefits for their staff, as well as escalating electricity expenses, as primary expenditure drivers.
Despite the price rise, camping remains a budget-friendly accommodation option compared to other types and abroad in Thuringia, according to Reinhard Schniz, chair of the Association of Thuringian Camping Businesses.
On average, campers in Thuringia are required to pay around 24.21 euros per night for two people, including pitch fees, caravan access, electricity, and local tax. This represents a 4.2 percent increase compared to 2024, as revealed by the recent "camping.info" survey.
Camping enthusiasts may find solace in the fact that Thuringia remains relatively affordable compared to other regional hotspots like Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania with its Baltic Sea coast, where costs stand at 33.20 euros per night.
Personnel costs remain a pressing issue at several sites, with staff scarcity cited as a significant factor. To retain employees, some sites have opted to increase their wages. As a result, the prices for overnight stays have risen this year at a number of sites, such as the camping ground near Oberhof and Hohenfelden (Weimarer Land).
Meyersgrund near Ilmenau is one exception, as it has maintained constant prices for tourists while increasing costs for long-term campers. Pricing varies among sites—some include amenities like showers and electricity in bundled packages, while others charge separately for these services.
High demand during Ascension and Pentecost weekends has traditionally marked a busy season for campsites. This year, with a favorable calendar and good weather, many sites have reported strong bookings thus far. Meyersgrund co-owner Manuela Zanker confirmed that the site is fully booked for these weekends.
The popularity of camping has experienced a steady rise in recent years, with an increase of 6.1 percent in overnight stays in Thuringia compared to 2024, as reported by the State Statistical Office. Some 314,000 vacationers opted for camping or caravan sites, averaging a stay of 2.7 days. Over 846,000 overnight stays were recorded in total.
Although price rises may make camping slightly less accessible for some visitors, the improved services and facilities, potentially rising from the increased costs, could enhance the overall camping experience for many. The net impact on the local camping market will depend on how these cost adjustments affect market dynamics, with some campers potentially exploring more cost-effective alternatives or opting for alternative accommodations.
- To mitigate rising costs, several Thuringia community policies might need to consider vocational training programs for camping site personnel to address staff scarcity and consequently, prices for overnight stays.
- As fashion-and-beauty enthusiasts plan their summer transitions, they may find the affordable lifestyle offered by Thuringia campsites appealing, offering a more wallet-friendly option for travel and accommodation amidst the season's trends.
- Foodies and home enthusiasts might find solace in the diverse food-and-drink offerings and home-and-garden amenities available at many campgrounds in Thuringia, providing a unique fusion of vacation and lifestyle within a budget-friendly setting.
