Pandemic sparks surge in Scots glampervanning getaways this winter

The coronavirus pandemic has sparked a major surge in the number of people planning to take to the road for a glampervan holiday this winter.

Recent figures suggest nearly three quarters of Britons who are thinking of taking a break in the next few months are interested in this type of travel.

The trend is being driven by people looking to spend time with friends and family during the colder months while respecting Covid-19 restrictions.

And they are willing to shell out big money for the privilege.

Research shows there has been a huge upsurge of interest in caravanning - but smart TVs, wifi and a decent shower are onboard must-haves

The figures come from research by Auto Trader, which operates the UK’s largest digital marketplace for all types of vehicles.

It’s thought the main attraction of mobile homes is being able to keep a safe distance from other households while staying in caravans parked next to each other, but still being able to spend time together outdoors.

It has led to a massive rise in demand for state-of-the-art motor homes and luxury caravans compared to the same time last year.

The biggest surprise is that it’s the younger generation who were most keen on a caravanning getaway – not the usual demographic.

The younger generation were most keen on holidaying in a caravan or motor home this winter, attracted by the ability to go away with friends or family while keeping a safe distance

The survey showed 95 per cent of those considering such a break this winter were aged under 45.

Nearly a fifth agreed that taking a trip in a caravan or motor home would be a great way to have a holiday whilst adhering to lockdown restrictions, with many feeling it would be safer than a hotel or holiday apartment under current conditions.

However, there was no suggestion of slumming it in a freezing-cold tin can.

These young caravanners are all about luxury and the latest gadgets, with a list of requirements that must be met before they would even consider this kind of trip.

Topping the list of must-haves is a smart TV with integrated Netflix, followed by a full cooking suite and a spacious sofa for relaxing.

Built-in high-speed wifi was the fourth most important feature, followed by a shower with decent water pressure.

One in eight even said they would love an onboard jacuzzi bath to help them fully relax.

A third of those polled said they would be willing to shell out more than £1,000 to rent a luxury caravan or motor home for a holiday this winter.

Erin Baker, editorial director at Auto Trader, said: “Staycations are set to remain popular for some time as coronavirus shows little sign of slowing in the UK.

“Christmas in particular is likely to see a surge in the popularity of caravan and motorhome holidays as people look for inventive ways to spend time with loved ones, whilst still adhering to Covid-19 restrictions.

“However, the rusty caravan from people’s childhood trips isn’t cutting it any more.

“The new generation of caravanners we are seeing want all mod cons.

“They’re following in the footsteps of popular celebrities such as Gwyneth Paltrow and Jamie Oliver and are looking for bigger vehicles with the latest tech, to provide all the entertainment and convenience that they have at home.”

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