Camping originated at the beginning of the 20th century, when Germany experienced an economic boom known as the Golden Twenties after World War I. For the first time, ordinary consumers could afford vacations; previously, employees had no legal right to vacation time. It made sense to recharge one's batteries in the great outdoors at low cost. The pioneers initially camped as a "weekend movement" with simple tents and recreational items such as folding boats.

These activities were interrupted by World War II. It was only after the end of the war and with the onset of the economic miracle that the general public could once again afford vacations. The caravan, invented in 1931, began its triumphant advance. Terms such as "fabric villa" or "house on a hook" emerged. In the 1960s, an industry specializing in camping began. Eventually, special vehicles, such as the iconic VW bus, were converted for camping and continuously developed on this basis.

More recent trends include "glamping," a luxurious form of camping, and "van life," living and traveling in a recreational vehicle—preferably a motorhome.

There are many reasons for choosing a camping vacation. For many, it is a longing for nature combined with individual vacation wishes, the fulfillment of which conveys a feeling of freedom. Families in particular benefit from camping with children and friends, enjoying a high level of leisure value in a relaxed atmosphere. However, this inexpensive, simple, nature-oriented form of vacation has now developed into a material-driven camping industry and infrastructure that does not compromise on the comforts of home.

With around 42.3 million overnight stays, more people than ever before stayed at campsites in Germany in 2023 (source: Federal Statistical Office). With an industry turnover of around €15.1 billion in 2024, the German caravanning industry achieved the second-best sales result in its history after 2023 (Caravaning Industrieverband e.V.). The association reports almost 100,000 new registrations of caravans and recreational vehicles for 2024.

This appeal of camping comes at a price. Motorhomes are now as expensive as condominiums. But the impact of the camping boom on the environment is also being viewed with increasing criticism.

The following criticisms of the camping trend are frequently cited:

CO₂ emissions: It is not only air travel that causes a poor CO₂ holiday balance. It is obvious that motorhomes, which are designed for "roaming around," also have a negative impact on the CO₂ balance. Compared to air travel, the reduced CO₂ emissions are only about 10 percent, depending on the type of motorhome. Fuel consumption is higher than for cars. Due to their size, superstructures, and heavy weight, this can be between 10 and 30 liters per 100 km. Electric vehicles have not yet become established here, as large batteries with additional weight would be required.

Material and resource consumption: A three-ton motorhome weighs at least twice as much as a car and therefore consumes more material and resources. Added to this are fixtures and fittings such as a kitchen, sleeping accommodations, and other living comforts such as a refrigerator, TV, auxiliary heating, and much more. Such a vehicle is generally not suitable for everyday use and is purchased in addition to a car.

Purchase and use: Expensive campers are bought new, but most of the year they sit unused in parking lots. In cities where space is scarce, they block public space.

Nature and waste: Self-sufficient vehicles make it possible: nature lovers sometimes take their campers into the countryside instead of staying on paved roads and designated sites. In many places, there is a lack of sanitary facilities, water connections, and waste disposal options. Overburdened municipalities without the appropriate infrastructure complain about an increase in wild camping with improperly emptied chemical toilets and mountains of trash left behind. In this way, the desire to be close to nature can harm nature.

Choosing a camping vehicle: The market for motorhomes is huge. Even the smallest van now has everything you need for your trip. This saves you money on purchase and maintenance costs. A smaller vehicle is lighter and uses less material. CO₂ emissions and tire wear are lower. A camper van can also be used in everyday life. As a general rule, the longer you use your travel vehicle, the better its environmental performance. A caravan can also be an alternative.

DIY conversion: If you want to convert your base vehicle yourself, you can use sustainable building materials. Upcycling old furniture is also an option if it is not too heavy. Mobile camping boxes are a relatively new trend on the camping market. Beds, kitchens, or sanitary facilities can often be installed in the vehicle by just one person without any technical knowledge and easily removed again after the vacation. Recommended reading for self-conversion can be found in the appendix.

Energy generation: Expensive campsite electricity for cooling, heating, and lighting is not necessary. There are suitable solar modules and accessories for campers that can also be reused when selling a vehicle.

Toilet and water hygiene: A composting toilet or a dry separation toilet are alternatives to a chemical toilet. There are also environmentally friendly products for disinfecting water tanks, e.g., with the help of UV light.

Environmental footprint: Renting instead of buying improves your environmental footprint. Camping vehicles are now available for rent nationwide from professional providers and on the private market. Another alternative is to rent a motorhome in your destination country and travel there in an environmentally friendly way using public transportation.

Accommodation: When planning your overnight stops, look for campsites with special sustainability management. You can find information on this in the list of links in the appendix.

For minimalists: Classic camping with a tent in your backpack, on foot or by bike, also makes for wonderful, unforgettable vacations. Instead of luxury and comfort, the focus is on the experience. Even camping equipment can be rented or shared.