The caravan and motorhome sector in Spain is shifting from rapid growth to a more stable phase, industry figures say, as nearly 200 vehicles were showcased at a major caravaning fair in Valencia.
The fair, held from 17 to 19 April at Feria Valencia alongside an automobile exhibition, attracted hundreds of visitors exploring options from budget trailers to premium motorhomes priced above 160,000 euros.
For travellers, the change signals a maturing market where choice is expanding but prices remain high, with demand still strong ahead of the summer season. Families and first-time buyers continue to weigh flexibility and cost as they consider caravans, camper vans and motorhomes as alternatives to traditional holidays.
Visitors at the fair reflected a mix of enthusiasm and urgency, with some concerned that prices may continue to rise. Many were experienced caravan users looking to upgrade or downsize, particularly as family travel patterns change.
“For us it’s the best option because you arrive at the campsite, unhitch it and you can use the car to go sightseeing, shopping or whatever,” said María. “The world of caravans is something you have to like, and we like it a lot, especially because before the caravan we used tents and this is much better,” added Isabel.
Others attending were exploring the sector for the first time or returning after renting in previous summers. “It’s a very nice option because, even if it doesn’t seem like it, in that small space you have everything,” said Teresa.
Despite continued consumer interest, industry representatives say the surge in demand seen during the pandemic has eased. “At the moment, the motorhome is still number one, but it is true that camper vans have grown a lot and caravans remain steady,” said Enrique Rita, President of ACCVal.
He estimated that new motorhomes typically cost between 60,000 and 70,000 euros, while nearly-new models can be 10,000 to 12,000 euros cheaper. The typical buyer is often a family of four, although the customer base is becoming more diverse, including couples, solo travellers and groups of friends.
Rita rejected the idea that the sector is still experiencing a boom. “The boom has already passed, what we are is a consolidated tourism alternative,” said Enrique Rita, President of ACCVal.
At the more affordable end of the market, manufacturers are offering lightweight caravans priced between 12,500 and 15,500 euros. These models, weighing under 750 kilograms, do not require separate registration, insurance or inspections, making them an attractive entry point for new buyers.
“The caravan is coming back strongly into the market because it has less maintenance, as well as the ease of mobility: it is very comfortable to leave it at the campsite and move around with the car,” said Juan José Juárez.
Even cheaper options are available, including fold-out trailer tents costing around 6,000 euros, offering basic accommodation for four people. At the other end of the spectrum, high-end motorhomes at the fair reached prices of up to 161,000 euros.
Exhibitors also reported seasonal urgency among buyers, with some hoping to purchase vehicles in time for immediate summer travel. “When they buy, if the motorhome can be on the road next week for travel, even better,” said Javier.
The sector continues to benefit from lifestyle shifts that began during the Covid pandemic, when demand for self-contained travel options surged. “As a result of Covid, people started buying and renting a lot of caravans and motorhomes,” said Javier. While growth has stabilised, industry players say caravaning remains firmly established as a mainstream travel choice across Spain.
