# European camping and caravan trade fair expansion

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/european-camping-and-caravan-trade-fair-expansion
> Updated: 2026-08-27T11:59:47.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 3.

The European camping and recreational vehicle sector is experiencing significant growth, reflected in the expansion of major trade fairs. 

In Germany, the Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf is preparing for its 2026 edition. While initial projections estimated more than 750 exhibitors and the introduction of a new off-road zone and roof-tent area, subsequent reports indicate the event is set to host a record 830 exhibitors. This follows a period of high demand, with 2025 recording 56 million overnight stays at campsites and 20 million at motorhome pitches. Pre-event activities included driving safety training for caravan towing.

Similarly, the Caravan Salon Austria in Wels is expanding to a record 37,000 square meters. The Austrian event will accommodate over 220 exhibitors and 500 brands, featuring a new focus area called ‘adVANture’ to highlight vanlife, off-road, and custom build trends, including workshops on solar power and DIY camper conversions.

The Düsseldorf event has since opened, showcasing models for the 2027 season with an emphasis on high-end vehicles and specialized features such as all-wheel drive and advanced interior layouts. Industry trends indicate a growing demand for autarky, as travelers increasingly seek to stay off-grid. This has prompted manufacturers to prioritize photovoltaic systems, larger batteries, and increased water storage.

However, the industry is facing economic normalization following the pandemic-era surge. In Germany, new registrations for motorhomes and caravans decreased by 3 percent during the first seven months of 2026, leaving manufacturers to manage high inventory levels as demand stabilizes.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: Caravan Salon Düsseldorf showcases new mobile travel trends

The Caravan Salon in Düsseldorf features over 830 exhibitors showcasing new campervans and motorhomes, with a strong industry trend toward off-grid autarky despite a recent dip in new vehicle registrations.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/caravan-salon-dsseldorf-hosts-record-number-of-exhibitors

### 2026-08-19: Camping and caravan trade fairs expand across Europe

Major European camping trade fairs in Düsseldorf and Wels are expanding, with record exhibitor numbers and new focuses on vanlife and off-road technology to meet rising consumer demand.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/camping-and-caravan-trade-fairs-expand-across-europe

### 2026-07-30: Caravan Salon Düsseldorf 2026 draws 750 exhibitors and new off‑road zone

Düsseldorf’s Caravan Salon 2026 runs Aug 28‑Sep 6 with 750+ exhibitors, new off‑road and roof‑tent zones; caravan drivers are urged to use specialised navigation like TomTom GO Camper Max to avoid size‑related路

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/caravan-salon-dsseldorf-2026-draws-750-exhibitors-and-new-offroad-zone

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Cite as: European camping and caravan trade fair expansion. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/european-camping-and-caravan-trade-fair-expansion