Navigating the Digital Campground: AI and Influencers Reshape Campground and Caravan Park Bookings
The way travellers discover and book their getaways is changing dramatically, and campgrounds and caravan parks need to adapt. Gone are the days of endless Google searches; campers now seek instant, personalised recommendations. They're turning to trusted voices on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, and leveraging AI travel planners like ChatGPT and Gemini, to discover their next adventure.
​
The booming creator economy, set to reach a staggering $480 billion by 2027, highlights the power of authentic content from trusted voices. Influencers are becoming the new travel power brokers, with campers gravitating towards genuine recommendations on social media over traditional advertising. Simultaneously, Generative AI is reshaping search behaviour. Travelers are using AI for real-time, hyper-personalised suggestions, and by 2028, organic search traffic is predicted to drop by 50% as AI-powered search takes over.
​
For campers, these AI agents do more than suggest campsites; they can book them and optimise for price and cancellation policies. This means, just like hotels, campgrounds and caravan parks need to ensure their visibility in AI-driven search results is as important, if not more, than ranking on traditional Google.
How Campgrounds and Caravan Parks Can Adapt:
To remain discoverable and competitive in this new landscape, campgrounds and caravan parks should:
-
Partner with Influencers:
-
Campers trust real experiences. Identify content creators whose audience aligns with your target demographic and offer exclusive stays or experiences to generate authentic, high-value content.
-
-
Embrace Creative AI Advertising:
-
Platforms like Meta, TikTok, and Google Ads use AI to optimise ad placement and personalise content. Leverage these tools to target specific camper personas with tailored promotions.
-
-
Optimise for AI Search:
-
Ensure your information is accessible to AI-driven search by:
-
Investing in PR and brand marketing, securing content on popular camping blogs, Facebook groups and travel sites.
-
Claiming and optimising third-party profiles like Google Business Profile, TripAdvisor, and relevant camping booking platforms.
-
Engaging in online forums, social media channels and review sites.
-
Reinforcing your brand's authority with campground reviews, ratings, and awards on your website.
-
-
-
Invest in Conversational AI:
-
Implement AI-powered chatbots on your website to provide instant, personalised responses to guest inquiries about availability, amenities, and booking options. Most website Content Management Systems (CMS’s) will have an in-built AI Chatbot for you to leverage.
-
​
​By embracing these strategies, campgrounds and caravan parks can stay ahead of the curve and thrive in the evolving digital landscape, ensuring they remain a top choice for campers seeking their next outdoor adventure.