Fewer people want to go camping – thinks the weather is to blame – news Vestfold and Telemark – Local news, TV and radio

Lots of sun and high temperatures in May contributed to a good start to the season at Vøra Camping in Sandefjord. In recent weeks, however, rainfall and lower temperatures have contributed to much calmer days. So far in July, motorhome and caravan occupancy is around 50 per cent lower than last year, says general manager Helge Langbach. – There are probably many who have embarked on a trip to the south. It is nice and warm there. It was Sandefjords Blad that mentioned the decline first. – Come anyway Langbach believes there are more people in the camping industry who experience a decline when the sun and heat shine with their absence. – It has been cool with us so far, but those who have been here have enjoyed themselves. They invent activities. Astrid Kaasa, who is the general manager at Beverøya Camping in Bø, says the weather plays a role, but that the season has been quite good so far. – There are many people who book a long time in advance. They have decided their holiday, so they will come anyway. There are many camping tourists enjoying themselves in Bø now, says general manager Astrid Kaasa at Beverøya Camping. Photo: Marie Belseth Sanden / news At Sørlandet Feriesenter in Risør there has been more pressure in previous years, but the campsite is almost full, says general manager Ole Marius Sandnes. He still believes that the weather has a lot to say about the activity at the campsite. – You notice that it is teeming as soon as the sun peeks out. Beverøya a popular destination for camping tourists. Photo: Marie Belseth Sanden / news I think camping has become more attractive The camping industry in Norway has experienced strong growth for several years. In 2022, a total of 8.6 million overnight stays were registered. Jarle Buseth, who is branch manager for camping at NHO Reiseliv, believes it is realistic to reach 10 million overnight stays within a few years. The camping industry is important for both tourists and businesses in many places in Norway, says Jarle Buseth. Photo: Per Sollerman / NHO Reiseliv He says several owners have invested a lot in their pitches, and believes higher standards have made camping more attractive to more people. – They have upgraded playgrounds and created service buildings that have the same facilities as you have in the bathroom at home. Rejoicing over expected change of weather At Vøra in Sandefjord, there are many pitches that are rented out on a 24-hour basis. Helge Langbach believes that some camping tourists choose to check the weather before deciding where to travel. In other words, the weather forecast for the next few days, which shows lots of sun and temperatures well into the 20s, is good news. – This weekend we will have a full camping trip, Langbach grins. Good summer weather means more guests at Vøra Camping. Photo: Hanna Enger Guttormsgaard / news Published 19.07.2024, at 07.06 Updated 19.07.2024, at 07.07



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