Six trends make camping smarter and more comfortable in 2026

According to an analysis by LeasingMarkt.de, leasing of motorhomes, caravans, e-bikes, and boats is on the rise in Germany. In April 2025, the number of registered motorhomes exceeded 1 million. Leasing is not necessarily cheaper than buying but allows spreading costs and avoiding large upfront investments.

Since April 2025, permanent camper Carsten Heidemann (49) has been running the 'Camping'Pinte' at the Große Heide campsite in Olfen. He offers home-style cooking and aims to revive the former restaurant as a community hub for campers and locals.

The motorhome of Britta and Uwe Kohlmann overturned after colliding with a classic car. The couple and their dogs escaped via a ladder and were unharmed. The accident occurred when the motorhome was only six months old.

Hobby has introduced the updated Excellent Edition caravan range for the 2027 model year. Key interior changes include light wood and white cabinet fronts, a ship deck-style floor, and blue upholstery with a gray option. Externally, models feature an additional red decorative stripe. The lineup includes 8 floor plans from 6.64 to 8.33 m in length, with prices starting at approximately €28,000.

Equity Lifestyle Properties operates over 450 properties with roughly 172,000 sites across the US and Canada, targeting seasonal and full-time RV travelers. The network includes brands like Thousand Trails and Encore, providing full hookups (water, sewer, 30/50-amp electric) and community amenities. About 60% of the company's property-level revenue comes from annual or long-term customers, highlighting the importance of extended-stay sites over transient bookings. Monthly rates range from several hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on location and season.

CADAC Dometic has introduced the Van Cook FFD gas grill, designed for use in campervans, motorhomes, and outdoors. The device operates on replaceable gas cartridges with a magnetic connection and features an automatic gas shut-off system (FFD) if the flame goes out. The package includes a grill grate, pot stand, percolator holder, lid, and wind and splash guard. The GreenGrill ceramic coating facilitates cleaning and promotes even heat distribution.