With the extension of the Ramadan holiday to 9 days and the upcoming summer season, preparations at camping sites are accelerating, leading to a rise in demand for tents and caravans.
Ahmet Fazlıoğlu, President of the Caravan Manufacturers and Suppliers Association, mentioned a noticeable increase in caravan demand, especially with the extended holiday period.
Caravans Gain Popularity Post-COVID-19
Fazlıoğlu highlighted that caravans became more popular after the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that over 500 manufacturing companies were established after 2020. He attributes the preference for caravan vacations to their cost-effectiveness compared to other options.
High Hotel Prices Shift Preferences to Caravans
The high prices of accommodation in tourist areas are pushing some people to choose caravans over hotels. Fazlıoğlu observed a significant number of caravan customers at recent fairs, planning their holiday around the extended break.
Caravan Rental Prices and Benefits
Rental fees for towed caravans range from 2,000 to 2,500 lira, and for motor caravans from 2,500 to 3,000 lira. Accommodation fees in parks vary between 700 and 1,000 lira. The affordability, unlimited accommodation space, comfort, and advantages offered by caravans make them a preferred choice.
Target Demographic and Market Potential
The target demographic for the caravan sector has expanded to include individuals in their twenties, but the ecosystem’s market share in areas with high population density has only recently reached 15%. Fazlıoğlu believes Turkish manufacturers have significant potential in the international market.
Increased Demand Compared to Last Year
Uğur Burhan, a campsite business manager in Izmir’s Menderes district, reported an increase in reservations, both in-person and by phone, for the Ramadan holiday. Demand has particularly risen for closed accommodation areas and caravan services, while tent accommodation is favored during the summer season.
Camping Capacity and Seasonal Demand
The campsite can host 60-70 caravans simultaneously, accommodating an average of 250 guests daily. The tent capacity allows for 350-400 tents, serving around 700-800 guests at full capacity during summer. Including day visitors, the service extends to an average of 2,000 people on weekdays and up to 3,500 to 4,000 on weekends.
Affordable Vacation Options Attract Tent Enthusiasts
Serkan Yazıcı, a tent manufacturer in OSTIM, noted that those seeking a nature-immersed, budget-friendly vacation are increasingly interested in tents. With the holiday extended to 9 days, many are choosing to spend it camping in tents. Inflatable camping tents are currently popular, with a preference for smaller tents among campers.
