Marion Travers, May 8, 2026 at 11:01 AM

Franck Chadeau, president of the Vendée Federation of Outdoor Hospitality (FVHPA), does not hide his optimism: “The mindset of camping professionals is quite confident. Currently, the occupancy rate for weekends and the beginning of the season is quite nice.” This favorable situation applies to coastal establishments in Vendée as well as those located inland, and is likely due to the international context that is limiting long-distance travel both in France and abroad.

A promising start to the season

Spring break was the first to benefit from this trend. “Attendance is on the rise, especially for the fortnight that concerned our area. There were more local customers due to the rise in fuel prices. We were also helped by favorable weather conditions,” notes Franck Chadeau.

Weather remains a significant factor influencing vacation and weekend plans: “People are ready as soon as the weather is good. In May, we will see an increase in activity. There was a big weekend on May 1st, another one on May 8th, and the climax with Ascension, which could be equivalent to August 15th if the weather is nice.”

A cautious approach for this summer

Regarding the increase in local customers, Franck Chadeau is waiting to see if this trend will persist in the coming weeks and months: “There is still uncertainty because the international context is anxiety-inducing. People say ‘let’s go, let’s enjoy,’ but there is a certain caution when it comes to reservations for this summer.”

This global context seems to be a hindrance. Franck Chadeau points out a “slight delay in reservations for the month of August.”

According to him, this reflects “the concern hanging over the morale of the French people.” In any case, “they will be much less likely to travel abroad this summer.”

But what about foreigners, who represent a significant portion of campers in Vendée (around 18%)? Will they also stay home? “For now, the trend looks favorable,” observes the FVHPA president. “They are still planning to come.” Dutch tourists lead, followed by Belgians, Germans, and English tourists.

Leisure above all

In any case, the increasingly prevalent trend of last-minute reservations will intensify. “As purchasing power declines, the French save money throughout the year to spend a few days on vacation. They want to be sure of good weather, which favors last-minute bookings.”

This complicated economic period is also reshuffling vacationers’ priorities. “Leisure is sacred. Living adventures, experiences is important. Tourists have a tight budget, but they still want to go on vacation even if it means staying one day less, not eating out, or making fewer purchases. Accommodation and activities are clearly prioritized.”

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