Extended Weekend Getaways Rising costs aren’t stopping people from taking holidays. They’re just changing the way they travel. RV and tent camping are emerging as the go-to choice for budget-conscious families and solo travelers, providing flexibility, affordability, and self-contained comfort. RVezy breaks it down.
According to KOA’s 2025 Family Campers Survey:
- 72% of respondents cite camping as a cost-effective holiday option.
- Nearly 65% of campers report adjusting their trip plans to save money, such as choosing closer destinations or shorter stays.
- Amenities and practical conveniences, like RV hookups and on-site facilities, are increasingly influencing campground choice.
“People aren’t cancelling their vacations. They’re getting creative,” says Michael McNaught, CEO of RVezy. “Shorter drives, simple itineraries, and self-contained camping options give families the freedom to enjoy holidays without the stress of escalating costs. Camping isn’t just affordable, but it’s resilient.”
Why Camping Is Winning
• Closer & Quicker: Shorter trips mean savings on fuel and time off work. Many camping destinations are within a few hours’ drive, making it easy for families to leave on a Friday afternoon and still enjoy a full weekend outdoors. This convenience allows travelers to take more frequent getaways without the cost or planning required for long-distance vacations.
• Self-Contained Comfort: RVs and tents eliminate reliance on hotels, restaurants, or public transport. Campers bring much of what they need with them—sleeping space, cooking equipment, and outdoor gear—creating a private basecamp wherever they travel. This self-sufficiency can make trips more affordable while also giving travelers greater control over their surroundings.
• Flexibility: Families can choose dates and locations without high-season price spikes. Campgrounds and public recreation areas often have wider availability and more consistent pricing than hotels during peak travel months. That freedom allows travelers to shift plans easily if weather changes or a better destination opportunity arises.
• Multi-Generational Friendly: Space for kids, pets, and grandparents alike. Campgrounds often offer larger sites, cabins, or RV setups where extended families can gather comfortably in one place. The relaxed outdoor setting also provides activities—such as fishing, hiking, or campfire cooking—that appeal to a wide range of ages.
Tips for Smart, Affordable Camping
• Book campgrounds early to secure best rates. Many popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially for holiday weekends and peak summer travel, so reserving early helps lock in lower fees and the best sites. Planning ahead also gives travelers more choices when it comes to location, scenery, and amenities.
• Opt for RV rentals with kitchen facilities to cut food costs. Having a small kitchen or cooktop allows travelers to prepare simple meals rather than relying on restaurants for every bite. Groceries, campfire cooking, and picnic-style meals can significantly reduce the overall cost of a camping trip.
• Plan for outdoor activities that don’t require extra spending. Hiking trails, lakes for swimming or fishing, wildlife watching, and evening campfires offer memorable experiences without added admission fees. These simple activities often become the most meaningful moments of a camping getaway.
• Compare campgrounds for included amenities, like showers, laundry, and dog areas. Some campgrounds provide added conveniences that can make a trip more comfortable without raising the nightly rate. Taking a few minutes to review what each location offers can help families find the best value for their stay.
With cost pressures rising, camping is proving that a “proper holiday” doesn’t have to cost a fortune. For many, it’s the perfect balance of budget, adventure, and quality family time.
“2026 is shaping up as the year travelers rethink what a holiday really means. Camping delivers memories, convenience, and savings all in one.
Rising costs are shaping how families, millennials, and even solo travelers approach holidays in 2026. What we’re seeing isn’t a decline in travel, but a shift in format. Camping and RV trips are emerging as the most resilient, budget-friendly way to enjoy time away without breaking the bank. KOA data supports this: 72% of campers cite affordability as a primary reason for choosing camping, and nearly two-thirds adjust their trips to save money by choosing closer destinations or shorter stays.
The appeal is clear. RVs and tents offer a self-contained solution that hotels simply can’t match. Travelers can cook their own meals, sleep in familiar or flexible arrangements, and enjoy amenities like showers, laundry, and even pet-friendly spaces. This flexibility reduces stress and allows families to tailor trips to their budget, timeline, and comfort level. Multi-generational groups and pet owners also benefit, as camping provides space for everyone under one roof or tent.
Beyond cost, there’s a psychological benefit. Holidays feel less rigid: if plans change due to weather, local events, or sudden circumstances, RVs and campgrounds allow travelers to adapt on the fly. People aren’t giving up on vacations. They’re reclaiming control, enjoying nature, and creating shared experiences that feel meaningful without the overhead of traditional hotels or high-season travel.
In short, 2026 is defining a new standard for what a ‘proper holiday’ means. Closer, simpler, self-contained, and fully under the traveler’s control: that’s what camping delivers. It’s proof that affordability doesn’t have to come at the expense of fun, comfort, or family memories,” says Michael McNaught, CEO of RVezy.
