In 2026, camper travel (converted vehicles) has surged in popularity in China. According to sources, skipping hotels can save more than 10,000 yuan on a long trip, while the necessary equipment costs only a few hundred yuan.
Key drivers include low air-conditioning costs (about 10–20 yuan per night) and a social-media map of free overnight spots created by millions of users. Campers also eliminate hotel check-in/out times, allow route changes without penalties, and enable stops at scenic places inaccessible to hotels.
According to video platforms, themed videos have garnered 9.8 billion views. Electric vehicles with external power and air conditioning make such trips cheaper: an overnight stay with AC costs about 10 yuan, while a hotel in season costs 400–500 yuan per night. Hotels report a 40% drop in revenue compared to last year, despite high occupancy. Experts attribute this to oversupply and reduced business travel, not just the camper boom.