Bürstner unveils Signature SMT motorhome on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis

Sisters Debby (29) and Mi (34) took over a campsite in Oberwesel on the Rhine in 2023, leaving their previous jobs as a midwife and a church referent. The first season was profitable, but now they must maintain service levels and cope with physical demands, including working from a tiny two-story reception house.

The all-wheel-drive Hyundai Ioniq 9 with a 110 kWh battery delivers 428 hp and can tow a 2.5-tonne trailer. In a test with a two-tonne caravan, acceleration from 80 to 100 km/h took 3.2 seconds, energy consumption was 41.5 kWh per 100 km. However, driver assistance systems (blind-spot monitoring, lane keeping) are disabled when towing, and adaptive cruise control does not cap speed at 120 km/h. Price for the version with a tow hitch starts at €89,100.

From July 7, 2026, new EU regulations (GSR II) will require all new motorhomes to be equipped with eight electronic safety systems. Industry experts estimate this will increase prices by €1,000–€3,000 per vehicle. The rules apply to factory-built models and self-conversions registered after the deadline. Dealers are currently offering discounts on existing stock with old type approvals.

The Maaß family from Hanover sold their house and bought the Camping-Oase Eider campsite in Schleswig-Holstein for one million euros. In the first season, the campsite faced storms and a lack of guests. The Arte documentary explores the challenges of running a campsite.

The Aachen region (Germany) recorded a record number of camping tourists: nearly 380,000 overnight stays last year, the highest ever, according to the state statistical office. The German Camping Industry Association (BVCD) reports structural changes: long-term pitches are being converted into tourist spots. For instance, Camp Hammer in Simmerath reduced permanent pitches from 90 to 25, while increasing spots for motorhomes and caravans from 25 to over 100.

Wildwoodcamping Uckermark has opened on the shores of Lake Wurlsee, about 100 km from Berlin. The site offers pitches for tents, motorhomes, and campervans, plus natural 'wild' spots. Prices start at €46 per pitch; a 20% discount applies until June 30.