Camper van boom in Italy: new tech, younger renters, and record sales

According to Eurostat, in 2025 the EU recorded 413 million nights spent in campsites and motorhome parks, with 40.1 million in Italy. The Parma Motorhome Show (12–20 September) has become the second largest in Europe, showcasing trends: modern motorhomes feature multimedia systems, battery-powered air conditioning, Bluetooth lighting control, and solar panels. 25.7% of owners travel with pets, and since April 2025 new EU rules require microchipping and vaccination.

A survey of 52 dealers shows motorhomes are now a mainstream holiday choice. 57.7% of new customers come from traditional tourism, attracted by the freedom to plan their own itinerary and schedule. The main audience is couples aged 50–65 and families. Energy autonomy (lithium batteries, solar panels) is the top reason to exceed the initial budget. Rental remains the main entry point, while beginners' main fears are manoeuvring and parking.

At the 17th Salone del Camper in Parma (12–20 September 2026), Italian manufacturers will showcase new models featuring brighter spaces, adjustable beds, separate bathrooms, and compact kitchens. Mobilvetta's Fluideen concept entered the ADI Design Index 2025, Laika collaborates with GFG Style, Etrusco won the German Design Award 2026, and Wingamm uses Rubelli bio-based fabrics.

According to a survey by the motorhome-sharing platform Yescapa, 94.1% of Italians would consider a motorhome trip during a significant life event. Across Europe, retirement was the most cited reason (45.4%), followed by burnout (41.8%). In Italy, burnout topped the list at 52.9%, with starting a new job at 43.1%. 38.8% of respondents would voluntarily choose a destination without phone or internet coverage. 90.4% reported a positive impact on their mood, and 76.5% said at least one road trip left a lasting impression on their life.

According to a survey by the motorhome-sharing platform Yescapa, over 80% of Europeans would consider a motorhome road trip to navigate a significant life phase. In Italy, this figure reaches 94.1%, with burnout as the top reason (52.9%), followed by starting a new job (43.1%). 38.8% of respondents would deliberately choose a destination without phone or internet coverage. 90.4% reported a positive impact on mood, and 76.5% said at least one motorhome trip left a lasting impact on their life.

A survey by Assocamp conducted in June 2026 among 52 dealers found that motorhomes are becoming a major alternative to traditional holidays. 57.7% of respondents said motorhomes compete with hotels and resorts, and 38.5% with second homes. The main audience is couples aged 50–65 (55.8%) and families aged 35–50 (44.2%). Key advantages: no fixed schedule (65.4%), ability to travel with pets and sports equipment (48.1%), and savings amid rising prices for traditional accommodation (32.7%). 90.4% of dealers offer rental services, and 70.8% believe many future buyers first try a motorhome on rental.

In Italy, over 50% of motorhome renters are aged 25–34. This is reshaping the market: demand is rising for compact camper vans and short trips (4–6 days), as well as rental services instead of ownership. Booking volumes have grown by more than 480% since 2020, and Italy's motorhome fleet increased by 10% in the last year.

According to a survey by Assocamp among 52 dealers, 57.7% of new motorhome buyers or renters previously chose traditional hotels or resorts, and 38.5% second homes. The main reason is the desire for freedom in trip planning (65.4% of respondents), as well as the ability to travel with pets or sports equipment (48.1%). The growth of motorhome tourism is also driven by rising costs of stationary accommodation and a desire for closer contact with nature.

A survey by Assocamp among 52 dealers found that 57.7% of new motorhome buyers or renters previously chose traditional hotels and resorts, while 38.5% gave up second homes. The main reason cited is the freedom to plan trips independently (65.4% of dealers), along with the ability to travel with pets or sports equipment (48.1%). Growth is also attributed to rising costs of stationary accommodation and a desire for closer contact with nature.

In 2025, over 44,000 motorhomes (new and used) were sold in Italy. New registrations increased by 10.56% compared to 2024, and used vehicle transfers rose by 6.05%. Italy is the third largest motorhome producer in Europe, exporting over 80% of its output. The Ministry of Tourism allocated €24 million to create and upgrade motorhome parking areas in 169 municipalities.