Motorhomes and Caravans Remain Popular in North Rhine-Westphalia
In the most populous German state of North Rhine-Westphalia, the demand for motorhomes and caravans continues to rise. According to the German Camping Club (DCC), the number of new registrations for these recreational vehicles increased significantly in the period from January to November 2022.
"Reise und Camping" Trade Fair Highlights the Growing Trend
The "Reise und Camping" trade fair (February 19-23) in Essen showcases the latest offerings in the camping and caravanning industry. As the largest vacation fair in North Rhine-Westphalia, it features approximately 750 exhibitors, including manufacturers of travel vehicles, tents, and accessories. This year, Croatia is honored as the partner country.
Parallel "Fahrrad Essen" Event Focuses on Cycling Trends
Running concurrently with "Reise und Camping" is the "Fahrrad Essen" bicycle fair (February 20-23), featuring over 200 exhibitors. This event showcases the latest innovations in cycling, with a particular emphasis on e-bikes and the growing trend of cargo bikes. Last year, a combined 85,000 visitors attended the two connected trade fairs.
Impressive Growth in Motorhome and Caravan Registrations
In North Rhine-Westphalia, new registrations of motorhomes reached 14,100 in the monitored period, representing a 16.6% increase compared to the previous year. Caravan registrations also rose, with 5,700 new vehicles registered, a 3.5% increase. These figures are provided by the Caravaning Industrie Verband (CIVD).
National Market Trends Show Slight Stagnation
Four weeks earlier, at the CMT travel trade fair in Stuttgart, the CIVD reported a somewhat stagnant market for motorhomes and caravans nationally. Production declines and surplus stock were attributed to the post-pandemic boom.
Luxury Motorhomes on Display at "Reise und Camping"
At the Essen fair, motorhomes are available in a wide price range, from €50,000 to over €500,000 and beyond. Visitors have the opportunity to test drive vehicles in a designated parking area and even take their purchase home directly from the fair. The event has been held annually in Essen since 1959, making it one of the oldest camping trade fairs in Germany and Europe.
Abundant Campgrounds Available in North Rhine-Westphalia
The DCC reports that North Rhine-Westphalia offers 322 camping sites for recreational enthusiasts. Almost 100 of these sites are designated as particularly scenic.
