Rises in costs for certain campgrounds - Rises in Fees Observed in Certain Campgrounds
Campers in Thuringia, Germany, face price increases for overnight stays and additional costs at some camping sites this season. These hikes also affect long-term campers, with site operators citing increased operating costs as the primary reason. Specifically, personnel expenses and electricity costs have risen significantly.
Despite the increases, camping remains a cost-effective option compared to other forms of accommodation, both in Thuringia and abroad. Reinhard Schniz, chairman of the Thuringian Camping Association, noted that the average costs for two individuals, including pitch, caravan, electricity, and local tax, are around 24.21 euros on average in Thuringia this year, making it one of the most affordable regions for campers.
Some campsites have already increased their overnight prices as a result of higher personnel costs. For instance, a spokeswoman for a camping site near Oberhof shared that their increased wages were necessary to retain staff. Similarly, the camping site Hohenfelden (Weimarer Land) has raised its rates for overnight stays, differentiated by main and low seasons.
At the camping site Meyersgrund near Ilmenau, prices for tourists have remained the same, but there are increases for long-term campers. Pricing varies across sites, with some including showers and electricity in a comprehensive package, while others charge separately for these amenities and waste disposal.
Popular long weekends, such as Ascension and Pentecost, are often fully booked at camping sites. Meyersgrund co-owner Manuela Zanker confirmed that bookings were already strong during Easter and May, thanks to favorable weather conditions and the later Easter date. The booking situation for the holiday season also appears promising, according to Schniz.
The surge in tourism has been apparent in Thuringia, with the number of overnight stays increasing by 6.1% in 2024 compared to the previous year, as reported by the State's Statistical Office. Around 314,000 vacationers stayed at the nearly 100 camping and caravan sites in the region, averaging 2.7 days per visit.
Factors contributing to price increases in regions like Thuringia might include increased demand, operational costs, renovations, seasonal fluctuations, and environmental regulations. For specific insights related to Thuringia, contacting local camping operators or checking regional tourism boards is recommended.
The community policy at camping sites in Thuringia, Germany, may involve vocational training programs to address the increased personnel costs, as seen in camping sites near Oberhof and Hohenfelden (Weimarer Land). The affordability of camping as a lifestyle choice remains evident, with the average costs for two individuals in Thuringia being around 24.21 euros this year.
