caravanning the most popular paid for holiday option in the UK

THE RISE AND RISE OF CARAVANNING IN THE UK – £183 MILLION BOOST FOR LOCAL ECONOMIES

Caravanning most popular paid for holiday option in UK…and growing

Caravanning is the most popular paid-for holiday option in the UK (19%), with even more Britons are planning to stay at home during 2009, instead of holidaying abroad. Last year one million took a ‘staycation’.

The Caravan Club has reported advanced bookings for 2009, which are up a substantial 40% on 2008, and with 1.5 million caravanners, motor caravanners and trailer tenters in the UK, Caravan Club members alone generated £183million into rural tourism economies when shopping, eating out, buying local produce and visiting local attractions. With value for money being a key criteria in the holiday decision-making process, caravanning can cost as little as £33.65 per person per weekend away (based on a two berth caravan costing £10,500 purchased at 0% finance).

Nick Lomas, Director of Marketing for the Caravan Club said: “We confidently predict that 2009 will be the year of the great British, value for money holiday. At a time of considerable economic uncertainty, tourism regions across the UK will continue to benefit from stay at home Britons and with thousands of campsites and destinations to choose from, there is no better time to plan and book holiday breaks in the UK.”

The great outdoors, caravanning, camping and boating take centre stage at this year’s National Caravan Boat and Outdoor Show at NEC, Birmingham, Tuesday 17 – Sunday 22 February 2009. The show is open from 10.00 until 18.00 every day and parking is free. Spread over five halls, visitors to the six day event will have the first opportunity to see the newest 2009 caravans, motorhomes, holiday homes, park homes and tent model ranges as well as a huge choice of tow cars, 4x4s, UK and European holiday destinations and outdoor leisure products.

Taking place during school’s spring half term, the event is packed with free activities for the whole family: from canoeing and kayaking lessons, scuba diving, climbing and mini-golf to caravan towing courses and motorhome manoeuvring lessons.

Tickets can be bought via the Ticket Factory on 0844 581 3000, online at www.boatandcaravan.co.uk (a transaction fee of £1 will be charged for card payments) or on the day. Full details on all aspects of the event, from exhibitors and entertainment to free parking and travel information, log onto www.boatandcaravan.co.uk.