participatory camping, an alternative for cheaper holidays

With his book in his hands and his hat screwed on his head, it is hard to believe that Michel has been working since 8 am. “I am the day man, the one who welcomes newcomers” on this campsite in Pornichet, in Loire-Atlantique, he explains. This retiree is a regular at the participatory campsites of the “Grouping of university campers”. The principle is simple: there is no employee, each holidaymaker gives a helping hand voluntarily to ensure the management of the campsite, and in return, he pays less than elsewhere.

>> Economy: why campsites are attracting more and more investors

Between two swims, Michel therefore participates in the tasks of the campsite by following a schedule decided each week in the camp assembly: maintenance, DIY, gardening, etc. “The most delicate room is obviously the toilets. They were done yesterday at the beginning of the afternoon, and here we are going to redo them. It’s clean”describes the vacationer.

This system is supposed to guarantee unbeatable prices, especially in high season, according to Emmanuelle, the treasurer-vacationer of the day. “We have prices that include electricity, the washing machine, payment, etc. Not everything is split. I think we are still at least 20 to 25% cheaper than elsewhere, largely”.

The prices are low but that’s not what appeals most to Anna, a camper. “What I like is the spirit of this campsite. We get closer to the natural air. We are not in a very commercial proposition with swimming pool, bar, entertainment. Here, everyone lives a bit like at home, in the countryside”, notes this vacationer. According to her, this is not suitable for everyone, hence the difficulty for this campsite to fill up. Even in high season, only a third of the pitches are occupied.