GITNUX REPORT 2024

Insights into the Thriving Camping Industry and Camper Preferences

Exploring the trends and preferences of campers: From family trips to outdoor activities and beyond.

Author: Jannik Lindner

First published: 7/17/2024

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86% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities while camping

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Hiking is the most popular camping activity at 63%

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42% of campers enjoy fishing while camping

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54% of campers participate in hiking while camping

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38% of campers enjoy swimming while camping

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36% of campers engage in wildlife viewing while camping

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33% of campers enjoy campfire cooking while camping

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29% of campers participate in biking while camping

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22% of campers enjoy kayaking or canoeing while camping

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18% of campers participate in stargazing while camping

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15% of campers enjoy photography while camping

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12% of campers participate in rock climbing while camping

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9% of campers enjoy birdwatching while camping

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77% of campers go camping with family

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13% of campers are first-time campers

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22% of campers are millennials

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18% of campers are Gen X

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16% of campers are Baby Boomers

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40% of campers bring pets on their camping trips

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Dogs are the most common camping pets at 91%

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5% of camping pet owners bring cats on their trips

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The average group size for camping trips is 4.3 people

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37% of campers go camping with children under 18

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23% of campers are aged 18-34

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31% of campers are aged 35-54

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46% of campers are aged 55 and above

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The camping industry generates $167 billion in annual economic impact

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The average camper spends $546 on camping equipment annually

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The global camping equipment market size was valued at $21.6 billion in 2020

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North America accounts for 40% of the global camping equipment market

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The camping equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2021 to 2028

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Sleeping bags account for 22% of camping equipment sales

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Tents account for 18% of camping equipment sales

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Backpacks account for 15% of camping equipment sales

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Camping furniture accounts for 12% of camping equipment sales

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The average camper goes on 5.4 camping trips per year

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The average camping trip lasts 2.5 days

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Tent camping is the most popular form of camping at 59%

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26% of campers prefer RV camping

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62% of campers prefer to camp in public campgrounds

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28% of campers prefer to camp in private campgrounds

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10% of campers prefer to camp on undeveloped land

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41% of campers say they camp to spend time with family and friends

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34% of campers say they camp to relax and escape stress

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56% of campers say that camping allows them to spend more time outdoors

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39% of campers say that camping helps them appreciate nature

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33% of campers say that camping helps them disconnect from technology

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28% of campers say that camping helps them improve their physical health

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22% of campers say that camping helps them improve their mental health

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61% of campers say they camp to be physically active

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60% of campers use smartphones while camping

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30% of campers use tablets while camping

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25% of campers use laptops while camping

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48% of campers say that access to cell service or Wi-Fi impacts their choice of campground

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48% of campers plan to camp more often in the future

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The most popular camping season is summer, with 70% of campers preferring it

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20% of campers prefer camping in fall

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7% of campers prefer camping in spring

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3% of campers prefer camping in winter

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The average distance traveled for a camping trip is 186.7 miles

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44% of campers travel less than 50 miles for their camping trips

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31% of campers travel between 51-100 miles for their camping trips

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25% of campers travel more than 100 miles for their camping trips

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65% of campers book their campsites in advance

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35% of campers prefer spontaneous camping without prior booking

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Summary

  • 77% of campers go camping with family
  • 13% of campers are first-time campers
  • The average camper goes on 5.4 camping trips per year
  • 48% of campers plan to camp more often in the future
  • Tent camping is the most popular form of camping at 59%
  • 26% of campers prefer RV camping
  • The average camping trip lasts 2.5 days
  • 41% of campers say they camp to spend time with family and friends
  • 34% of campers say they camp to relax and escape stress
  • 86% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities while camping
  • Hiking is the most popular camping activity at 63%
  • 42% of campers enjoy fishing while camping
  • The camping industry generates $167 billion in annual economic impact
  • 22% of campers are millennials
  • 18% of campers are Gen X

Ready to pitch your tent and join the 77% of campers who prefer the company of family under the stars? Whether youre a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a newbie to the world of campfires and smores, the camping scene is buzzing with fascinating statistics that might just entice you to pack up your gear and hit the great outdoors. With 48% of campers planning to up their camping game in the future, the average camper embarks on 5.4 trips a year, proving that the call of the wild is impossible to resist. So grab your tent (preferred by 59% of campers) or RV (the choice of 26%), because were diving into a wilderness of camping insights, from budget breakdowns to favorite camping activities, all while keeping a sharp eye out for that elusive Wi-Fi signal.

Camping Activities

  • 86% of campers participate in multiple outdoor activities while camping
  • Hiking is the most popular camping activity at 63%
  • 42% of campers enjoy fishing while camping
  • 54% of campers participate in hiking while camping
  • 38% of campers enjoy swimming while camping
  • 36% of campers engage in wildlife viewing while camping
  • 33% of campers enjoy campfire cooking while camping
  • 29% of campers participate in biking while camping
  • 22% of campers enjoy kayaking or canoeing while camping
  • 18% of campers participate in stargazing while camping
  • 15% of campers enjoy photography while camping
  • 12% of campers participate in rock climbing while camping
  • 9% of campers enjoy birdwatching while camping

Interpretation

Camping enthusiasts are a diverse bunch with a penchant for multitasking in the great outdoors. It seems they can't resist the call of the wild, with hiking reigning supreme as the most popular camping activity. From casting a line in tranquil waters to roasting marshmallows over crackling flames, these statistics paint a picture of nature lovers who truly embrace all facets of the camping experience. So next time you pitch your tent under the stars, remember to pack your hiking boots, fishing rod, and maybe even a camera - because camping is not just a getaway, it's a multi-activity extravaganza!

Camping Demographics

  • 77% of campers go camping with family
  • 13% of campers are first-time campers
  • 22% of campers are millennials
  • 18% of campers are Gen X
  • 16% of campers are Baby Boomers
  • 40% of campers bring pets on their camping trips
  • Dogs are the most common camping pets at 91%
  • 5% of camping pet owners bring cats on their trips
  • The average group size for camping trips is 4.3 people
  • 37% of campers go camping with children under 18
  • 23% of campers are aged 18-34
  • 31% of campers are aged 35-54
  • 46% of campers are aged 55 and above

Interpretation

In the intriguing world of camping statistics, it seems that pitching a tent is increasingly becoming a multigenerational affair, with 77% of campers opting for family escapades among the great outdoors. Millennials are boldly staking their claim, making up 22% of these intrepid adventurers, while the resilient Gen Xers at 18% and the seasoned Baby Boomers at 16% hold their ground. Furry companions are a crucial part of the camping crew, with 40% bringing along their beloved pets, predominantly the loyal canine companions at a high-flying 91%. And as for those who dare to bring feline friends along, well, they are a brave 5% minority in the wilderness. With the average camping group size standing at 4.3, it seems that the more, the merrier when it comes to sharing the joys of nature. So whether you're a rookie camper, a seasoned pro, or just looking for a paw-some adventure, the camping world welcomes all ages and species to its wild embrace.

Camping Economics

  • The camping industry generates $167 billion in annual economic impact
  • The average camper spends $546 on camping equipment annually
  • The global camping equipment market size was valued at $21.6 billion in 2020
  • North America accounts for 40% of the global camping equipment market
  • The camping equipment market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 6.8% from 2021 to 2028
  • Sleeping bags account for 22% of camping equipment sales
  • Tents account for 18% of camping equipment sales
  • Backpacks account for 15% of camping equipment sales
  • Camping furniture accounts for 12% of camping equipment sales

Interpretation

In a world where outdoor adventures are the new currency, it seems that pitching a tent is more than just a hobby—it's big business. With the camping industry's economic impact towering at $167 billion annually, it's clear that the great outdoors is not just a playground but a bustling marketplace. From sleeping bags to backpacks, every piece of camping gear contributes to the $21.6 billion global market, with North America staking its claim as the biggest spender at 40%. As the camping equipment market continues to pitch its growth tent at a rate of 6.8% from 2021 onwards, it's crystal clear that in the realm of nature lovers, innovation and sales are not just cozying up in a sleeping bag but flourishing under the stars.

Camping Frequency

  • The average camper goes on 5.4 camping trips per year
  • The average camping trip lasts 2.5 days

Interpretation

It appears that the modern camper has perfected the art of the quick getaway, with an average of 5.4 camping trips per year lasting a mere 2.5 days each. In this era of limited vacation time and jam-packed schedules, camping enthusiasts have become masters of efficiency, proving that you don't need a long vacation to recharge - just a tent, some s'mores, and a few days of the great outdoors are enough to rejuvenate the spirit. So grab your gear and embrace the power of the short but sweet escape into nature.

Camping Methods

  • Tent camping is the most popular form of camping at 59%
  • 26% of campers prefer RV camping
  • 62% of campers prefer to camp in public campgrounds
  • 28% of campers prefer to camp in private campgrounds
  • 10% of campers prefer to camp on undeveloped land

Interpretation

In the delightful world of camping preferences, it seems that tents take the crown as the reigning royal abode, commanding a whopping 59% of camper love. RVs come in a close second at 26%, proving that some campers like their adventures with a dash of luxury on wheels. When it comes to location, public campgrounds steal the spotlight with a whopping 62% of campers seeking communal outdoor bliss. Private campgrounds offer a more exclusive getaway for the discerning 28% of campers. And let's not forget the daring 10% who embrace the wild allure of undeveloped land, bravely venturing into the untamed wilderness for a touch of pure, unfiltered nature. Oh, the camping conundrum - where pitching a tent or revving up an RV becomes a serious decision in the great outdoors!

Camping Motivations

  • 41% of campers say they camp to spend time with family and friends
  • 34% of campers say they camp to relax and escape stress
  • 56% of campers say that camping allows them to spend more time outdoors
  • 39% of campers say that camping helps them appreciate nature
  • 33% of campers say that camping helps them disconnect from technology
  • 28% of campers say that camping helps them improve their physical health
  • 22% of campers say that camping helps them improve their mental health
  • 61% of campers say they camp to be physically active

Interpretation

In a world where we're constantly connected, stressed, and overwhelmed, it seems that camping has become the ultimate multitasking activity. According to these statistics, campers are not just pitching tents and starting campfires; they're also building bonds with loved ones, escaping the daily grind, boosting their outdoor time, nature appreciation, mental health, physical well-being, and even giving technology the ole' heave-ho. Who knew that setting up camp could be the Swiss Army knife of recreational activities, providing a slew of benefits all under one starry sky? So, next time you're feeling like you need a recharge, maybe it's time to swap your laptop for a sleeping bag and join the 61% of campers getting their bodies moving in the great outdoors.

Camping Technology

  • 60% of campers use smartphones while camping
  • 30% of campers use tablets while camping
  • 25% of campers use laptops while camping
  • 48% of campers say that access to cell service or Wi-Fi impacts their choice of campground

Interpretation

In a world where the call of the wild competes with the ping of incoming notifications, it seems that even the serenity of camping cannot escape the reach of technology. With 60% of campers glued to their smartphones, 30% swiping on tablets, and 25% tapping away on laptops amidst the great outdoors, one wonders whether we are truly disconnecting or merely relocating our screens to a more scenic backdrop. And with nearly half of campers admitting that a Wi-Fi signal influences their choice of campground, it seems the battle between embracing nature and staying connected rages on, with cell service as the deciding factor in this modern-day wilderness tale.

Camping Trends

  • 48% of campers plan to camp more often in the future
  • The most popular camping season is summer, with 70% of campers preferring it
  • 20% of campers prefer camping in fall
  • 7% of campers prefer camping in spring
  • 3% of campers prefer camping in winter
  • The average distance traveled for a camping trip is 186.7 miles
  • 44% of campers travel less than 50 miles for their camping trips
  • 31% of campers travel between 51-100 miles for their camping trips
  • 25% of campers travel more than 100 miles for their camping trips
  • 65% of campers book their campsites in advance
  • 35% of campers prefer spontaneous camping without prior booking

Interpretation

Breaking news: The wild and wonderful world of camping reveals intriguing trends as 48% of campers pledge to pitch their tents more frequently in the future, proving that the call of the great outdoors is stronger than ever. Despite the siren song of summer drawing in 70% of campers, a rebellious 35% prefer the adrenaline rush of spontaneous trips without reservations, keeping the campsite industry on its toes. With an average journey spanning 186.7 miles, it's clear that for these intrepid explorers, the path to adventure is paved with winding roads and starlit skies.

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