Countless motorhome stops pass by in the Campercontact app and website on a daily basis. And each of them has a charm of its own. Some of them attract large numbers of visitors, and others remain hidden gems that do not receive the attention they deserve. What is it that makes the difference? Is there something that only successful campsite owners know?
We dove in, searching for answers by asking several owners what their secrets are. Determined to figure out what the secret sauce of successful campsite and motorhome stopovers is.
Wouter's secret at Camperpark Hellendoorn
The first owner we spoke with was Wouter. For over 2 years, Wouter has been welcoming motorhome owners in his camper park. Originally focused on regional activities, he decided to also host motorhomers. He really puts his heart and soul into the business, upkeeping things both physically and digitally.
Wouter: “Campercontact brings most of my guests to the camper park. But also the location, a lot of word-of-mouth and the positive reviews play a big part in keeping things busy”. He understands the importance of being visible, digitally. Wouter makes sure photos are up-to-date and he is planning to create a promotional video soon too. “My Campercontact account and the features in the package help create awareness, it is clear to use and works really well,” he says.
Right now you can not book in advance at the camper park. But who knows, maybe this will change as he sees a demand for it. Especially during the high season.
Ronald & Marloes at Camperplaats Orvelterblok share valuable tips
Because a proper investigation needs more than just one success story, we also contacted Ronald and Marloes at Camperplaats Orvelterblok.
Being motorhomers themselves, they definitely understand the needs of their guests. On occasion they take off with their own motorhome. Mostly they stay put at their campsite. Marloes: “It is important to be around. To look after everything and to be able to talk with our guests”.
The biggest successfactor for Camperplaats Orvelteblok lies in the great number of positive reviews. Well over 80% of their guests come via the Campercontact app or website. “Really make sure you have great photos, your information stays up-to-date and that there is a good description of the site”, says Ronald.
Another great tip, from Marloes: “As a motorhome stopover owner or manager, go out with your motorhome yourself and discover what facilities and information is important at a site”.
Het Kartonnen Huis's owner Gine tells her secret
At last we spoke with Gine, in sunny Spain, the owner of Het Kartonnen Huis near Aspe.
She runs the site with partner Dave. The original idea was to make it into a B&B. Due to the pandemic they decided to turn it into a motorhome stopover. When they started there was only room for four motorhomes. Due to their success, eight more spots have been added in the last six months.
The secret for success? Gine says: “You have to get yourself known. Show yourself! Make sure you always update, renew and make sure the pictures are beautiful and inviting.”
Even more important than beautiful photos, according to Gine, are the reviews. “Every review is one to respond to. Positive or negative. Guests take the time to write a review, so they deserve an answer or reply.” One of the tasks Gine has is to keep the prices and other important information updated in their Campercontact account. “Most of our guests come through Campercontact anyway, so I feel the need to maintain it very well. For me it is the nicest platform to work with. Also when I have to troubleshoot, help always comes quickly.”
The one thing they all have in common?
They all are very passionate about the business. It is quite remarkable to see and yet it makes so much sense. Their enthusiasm and attention to their guests and the site itself results in lots and lots of positive reviews.
In short: having local support, a digital presence on Campercontact and keeping information up to date seems to pay off in high occupancy rates where most of the guests coming in through Campercontact.
Keen on applying these secrets on your campsite or motorhome stopover too?
Do you own a motorhome stopover or campsite? Here is some information on how to get your site on Campercontact and how to get the most out of it.