Europe's RV Business Is Booming — What Serious Operators Are Investing In

The European Parliament's Transport Committee adopted its position on May 5, 2026, regarding the modernization of EU roadworthiness testing rules. For motorhome and camper van owners, the key development is the rejection of the European Commission's proposal to require annual inspections for vehicles over ten years old, deemed disproportionate. Instead, new rules introduce the possibility of having inspections done abroad while on holiday and stricter measures against odometer fraud.

The European Parliament has approved a new driving license directive that will make it easier to drive heavier motorhomes. Holders of a category B license will be able to drive vehicles weighing up to 4.25 tonnes after special training, compared to the current 3.5-tonne limit. EU member states have three years to transpose the new rules into national law.

In 2025, overnight stays at EU campsites reached 413 million, a 28.5% increase over a decade, outpacing hotel growth (23.4%). Greece has allowed parking for motorhomes up to 7.5 meters in residential areas without time limits, with a 24-hour limit for larger vehicles and trailers.

Motorhome owners are warned about a serious defect in a popular chassis. A leak in the Fiat Ducato fuel line can lead to a vehicle fire. The recall involves 18 chassis variants, including Citroën Jumper and Peugeot Boxer, manufactured primarily in 2025.

The European motorhome market was valued at USD 25.48 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 51.62 billion by 2034, with a CAGR of 8.16%. Growth is driven by a preference for flexible and safe travel, the rise of domestic tourism, and smart technology integration, but is restrained by high costs and stringent environmental regulations.

Overnight stays at campsites, RV parks, and caravan sites in the EU reached 413 million in 2025, a 28.5% increase compared to 2015. 67% of stays were concentrated in the summer months, with France leading at 154 million nights, accounting for 37.2% of the EU total. France was followed by Spain (49.8 million), Italy (49.1 million), and Germany (45 million).