Group travel is making a comeback, whether it’s family vacations, adventure tips, or even work trips, more travelers are opting for shared experiences with others. If you’re in the campground or travel business, this is great news! As more groups go on trips, it becomes harder to manage bigger and more complicated reservations.
Today’s group travelers are looking for more than a place to stay—they want personalized, memorable experiences. The question is, how do you effectively manage group bookings, keep your operations running smoothly, and ensure everyone has a great time?
In this post, we’ll look at five tips to help you stay on top of group reservations and capitalize on this growing trend. Plus, we’ll share some insights on how to make group management a breeze with the right tools. Let’s dive in!
Catering to smaller, More Intimate Groups
Group sizes are shrinking, but expectations are growing
Do you remember when there was a time when you had to hop on a bus with 50 people to go on a trip? Well, those days are gone. Today’s group travelers are more likely to travel in smaller, more intimate groups, often with fewer than 20 people. They want more space, comfort, and personalized experiences.
This shift is a golden opportunity for campgrounds and travel businesses. With smaller groups, you can create experiences that are more focused on quality than quantity. These groups may spend more time at your campground or doing activities, which can increase revenue from services like equipment rentals or exclusive tours.
And here’s the bonus: these travelers are more likely to share their positive experiences with friends, bringing in future bookings.
Managing Smaller Groups Efficiently
Even though group sizes are shrinking, handling their reservations can still be a handful. Smaller groups often expect more flexibility, so make sure your booking system can handle adjustments like changing arrival times, site preferences, or even adding last-minute members. Offering personalized service while maintaining operational efficiency is the key to keeping these groups happy and ensuring they’ll return.
Understand the New Demographics of Group Travel
It’s Not Just Seniors Anymore
Group travel is no longer just for retirees. Nowadays, you’ll find groups of millennials, Gen Z adventurers, women’s retreats, and even niche interest groups, like foodies or cultural enthusiasts. These travelers want experiences that are more flexible, active, and involve outdoor activities or unique cultural experiences.
For example, there’s been a surge in interest from women’s travel groups seeking adventure or wellness experiences. These groups might need different accommodations, like single rooms instead of double beds, and they might want to do things that help them feel connected, healthy, and improve themselves.
Customize Your Offerings for Diverse Groups
Understanding who your group travelers are can help you tailor your offerings. Make sure you have a range of activities and accommodations that meet different interests and needs. Flexible options make it easier to attract diverse group demographics, whether it’s a guided hike for an adventurous group or a women’s retreat.
Flexibility is key for group itineraries
It’s Not One-Size-Fits-All Anymore
One of the biggest trends in group travel is flexibility. Today’s travelers are looking for customizable itineraries that allow them to choose how they spend their time. While they still want the convenience of a pre-planned trip, they don’t want to be locked into every activity.
For example, multi-generational family trips might have different needs—grandparents might prefer a relaxing nature walk, while the younger generation wants a zip line adventure. Offering a range of activities gives group travelers the freedom to enjoy their experience in a way that suits them best.
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How to Offer Flexible Options
Managing flexible itineraries doesn’t have to be complicated. By offering different activities in the same time frame, groups can split up based on their interests while still coming together for meals or important moments of the trip. It’s important to have a reservation system in place that allows easy modifications for individual members within the group. This way, everyone gets the experience they want without the administrative headaches for you.
Offer nature based and Active Itineraries
Outdoor Activities Are in High Demand
With group demographics getting younger, there’s been a noticeable rise in demand for outdoor, nature-based itineraries. Adventure travel and outdoor activities are becoming more popular. People are looking for unique experiences like hiking, kayaking, wildlife tours, and other eco-friendly adventures.
Campgrounds can attract these groups by offering activities that let them spend time in nature. Think guided hikes, birdwatching tours, or even yoga in the wilderness. These activities make the group stay better and make your property more attractive to adventure travelers.
Partner with local guides for specialized activities
If your campground is located near national parks, forests, or other natural attractions, consider partnering with local guides to offer group tours or excursions. This makes your guests’ experience better by outsourcing some tasks. You can provide a complete package without overburdening your team, and the groups get to enjoy a professional, immersive experience.
Simplify Group Reservations with the Right Tools
Make Group Bookings simpler
If you do not have the right systems in place, it can quickly become a logistical nightmare to manage group reservations. From multiple sites or cabins to coordinating different arrival times and handling payments, it can get overwhelming fast. But there’s a better way.
The Group Booking feature from RoverPass simplifies the entire process. With this feature, group leaders can book multiple sites or cabins in one transaction, ensuring everyone stays together. Even better, each member of the group can manage their individual reservations, making it easy to update preferences or split payments as needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How has the group travel market changed recently?
Group sizes have become smaller and more intimate, with an emphasis on personalization and flexibility. Younger travelers, niche groups, and women’s travel groups are driving much of this growth.
2. How can I attract more group travelers to my campground?
Offer tailored experiences that cater to diverse interests. Highlight outdoor activities, provide flexible itinerary options, and use special packages that appeal to niche groups such as wellness retreats or adventure travelers.
3. How can I streamline group bookings and management?
Using a booking system like RoverPass’s Group Booking feature allows group leaders to reserve multiple sites in one transaction and manage individual reservations easily. This saves time and prevents logistical headaches.
4. Why are smaller group sizes more common now?
Smaller group sizes offer a more intimate experience, allowing for deeper connections and personal space. Travelers are willing to pay more for the benefits of smaller group travel.
5. What types of activities appeal to modern-day group travelers?
Outdoor and nature-based activities like hiking, kayaking, wildlife tours, and wellness experiences are highly appealing. Group travelers also enjoy flexible, customizable itineraries that allow for both structured and free time.
Keep reading our blog for more tips, insights, and tools to help you optimize your operations and deliver an unforgettable experience for every guest!
