1. Focus on motorhomers
Motorhomers are true low season travellers. International research by Campercontact shows that a large proportion of them prefer to travel in May, June and September. They are often aged 55 and over, not dependent on school holidays and able to plan their trips flexibly. They also tend to stay in one place for several days and their average daily spending on overnight stays, food and local activities has been increasing in recent years. By consciously tailoring your offer, communication and facilities to this target group, you increase your chances of achieving higher occupancy rates outside the summer months.
2.Attract young families
It is not only seniors who travel outside high season. Young families with children who are not yet of school age also often plan their holidays in the early or late season. For this target group, it is important to show that your location is child-friendly. Think of play facilities, safe outdoor areas, a place where children can go even in bad weather, and small extras that make their stay more comfortable, such as a toddler pool, playground, petting zoo, wagon or balance bikes. Families often stay longer and are happy to return if their experience has been a positive one.
3. Linkup with local events
Events attract visitors, even outside high season. Festivals, sporting events, markets or cultural activities provide extra reasons to travel. By actively highlighting what’s happening in the area and sharing this through your website, e-mail, newsletters or social media channels, you can position your location as the ideal base. You can also create packages that combine overnight stays with attendance at the event.
4.Collaborate with local partners
Partnerships with local businesses add value to your location. Think of restaurants, museums, wellness centers, bike rentals, local markets, or regional producers. Seasonal activities such as autumn grape harvests, Winter Christmas markets, or spring flower festivals are also attractive.
Approach local sports clubs or outdoor companies to offer activities such as kayaking, horse riding or playing golf. This appeals to adventurous guests and makes their stay more dynamic. By creating joint packages, you provide guests with a complete experience, giving them a reason to stay longer and spend more, while at the same time also supporting the local economy.
5.Organize activities yourself
You don't always have to rely on what's happening in the surrounding area. By organizing your own activities, you can make your location stand out. Think of themed walking-or cycling weekends, culinary evenings, wellness moments or activities related to nature and culture. Organize sports tournaments such as volleyball, petanque or a swimming competition, or offer workshops in painting, pottery or local crafts. Invite local bands for live performances or organize karaoke evenings. Especially in low season, guests are looking for experiences and connection. Activities create atmosphere, engagement and a reason for guests to book with you.
6.Encourage guests to stay longer
Extending a stay is often easier than attracting new guests. With smart offers, you can encourage guests to add an extra night. Consider discounts on additional nights, a free activity or a delicious breakfast or small upgrade. You could also offer guests who extend their stay a free upgrade to a better pitch or extra facilities such as a private bathroom or free Wi-Fi.
By offering just a little bit extra, guests feel appreciated and are more inclined to stay longer.
7. Be distinctive and know your strengths
What makes your campsite or motorhome site unique? It could be the location, personal hospitality, special facilities or a specific atmosphere. By clearly highlighting your unique features, you distinguish yourself from other locations.
Guests are increasingly choosing places with their own story and character, especially outside high season. Use guest feedback to identify your strengths. Reviews provide the insights you need to improve and promote your motorhome site or camp site.
8. Offer popular facilities
Basic facilities must be in order, especially for motorhomers. Clean sanitary facilities, sufficient electricity connections and reliable Wi-Fi are often decisive factors. Additional services such as bike rental, a small shop, bread delivery or wellness facilities increase comfort and make your location more attractive for longer stays. Active guests appreciate sports facilities such as tennis courts, volleyball courts or fitness areas. Sustainable facilities are also becoming increasingly important for a growing group of travellers. Think of recycling programs, charging points for electric vehicles and the use of sustainable energy sources.
9. Build a loyal customer base
Returning guests are invaluable during low season. A simple loyalty program can encourage repeat visits. Think of loyalty points, exclusive offers, personal extras or early access to reservations. For example, let guests collect points for each night they stay, which they can redeem for discounts or free nights. Or invite loyal guests to exclusive events such as wine tastings, special dinners or private tours. This strengthens the bond with your guests and offers them unique experiences they won’t get elsewhere. By making guests feel welcome and appreciated, you increase the likelihood that they will return, especially during quieter periods.
10. Showcase every season in your photos
Low-season travellers aren’t just looking for lower prices, they are seeking a different experience. That's why it's important that your visual communication reflects this. Use photos that capture the atmosphere of each season: colourful autumn leaves, snowy winter landscapes, blooming flowers in spring and sunny summer days. This helps to highlight your versatility and shows that there is something to experience all year round. By showing realistic, season-specific images, you inspire guests to book outside high season as well.
