While the Channel Islands are enjoying an easing of lockdown restrictions, overseas travel remains up in the air. As a result, residents across the islands are settling in to the idea of a summertime staycation.
Being in the great outdoors, it’s little wonder that camping has nudged its way up the travel agenda for many islanders. Plus, camping and ‘roughing it’ no longer go hand-in-hand, which makes it all the more attractive.
Forget uncomfortable nights under canvas, a camping staycation in the Channel Islands offers a variety of accommodation options, from VW camper van hire in Jersey to safari tents in Guernsey. Whether you fancy luxury camping or going back to basics, campsites across the Channel Islands have something for everyone.
‘We’ve definitely seen an increase in enquiries in the last two weeks. I think the local community is looking for things to do,’ said Joe Castellino of Jersey Camper Van Hire, which specialises in classic VW camper hire.
‘When we first started, we had a lot of interest from locals who wanted to give it a go, but our main markets were visitors from the UK and Europe. Of course, with no transport links right now, that’s come to an end. This summer, we’ll have to rely on the local market.
‘Staycations and staying at home – it’ll require a step change in the way we think about vacations.’
While those in the camping business are welcoming increased interest from islanders, for many the local market alone won’t be able to fill a shortfall in bookings caused by travel restrictions into the islands.
‘One of the advantages we have is that we’re part of a group – Le Riche Automobile Restorers is our parent company – and there are a number of other company streams that have remained active throughout. But I imagine that other campsites might struggle to keep their heads above water,’ said Joe.
‘From the island’s perspective, the UK might be a short hop away, but its Covid statistics aren’t fantastic and there are a lot of reservations about letting people from the UK in. We need to try new ideas to get our transport links up and running again.’
In Guernsey, which has entered Phase 5 of its lockdown exit strategy to create a ‘Bailiwick bubble,’ non-essential travel is permitted in and out of the island. However, limited transport links and a 14-day self-isolation requirement on arrival is having a devastating impact on businesses that rely on tourism, like the island’s campsites.
‘Most of our customers come from the UK and Europe and they won’t be able to visit this year. We’ve transferred many of the bookings to next year so the financial impact of this pandemic will last at least two years,’ said Teresa Norton of Fauxquets Valley campsite.
‘We do get a high percentage of locals who come to stay with us and obviously we’re having more people enquiring because they can’t go away. At least with Phase 5 we’ll be able to operate as normal, without social distancing.’
With foreign holidays out of the picture for many this summer, could camping provide the best staycation solution? Here are five great reasons to have a camping staycation in the Channel Islands this summer:
It supports local business
No tourists visiting the islands has had a devastating impact on the local businesses that rely on them. A camping staycation will put money back into the local economy and help out businesses that need your support.
Think camping isn’t for you? Think again
For some people, the simplicity of sleeping under a canvas is a huge part of camping’s appeal. For others, a few creature comforts wouldn’t go amiss. Thankfully, there are plenty of camping option in the Channel Islands, from fully-equipped log cabins at Guernsey’s Fauxquets Valley to the luxury safari tents at Durell Wildlife Camp in Jersey. Herm, Sark and Alderney also offer convenient options for campers who want to maintain a comfortable distance from nature.
Experience your own backyard in a new way
Living on a small island, you may think you’ve seen everything it has to offer. Camping, however, lets you experience a place through fresh eyes. You might be close to home, but it will feel worlds away.
Digital detox
If, like many people, you got sucked down the digital rabbit hole during lockdown, spending more and more time looking at a screen, camping is a good chance to leave the tech at home. It’s an especially good chance to wean the kids off screen time.
Re-connect with nature
Whether you sleep under the stars or opt for the comfort of glamping, camping allows you to re-connect with nature, encounter wildlife, and experience the outdoors in a way that isn’t possible with other types of holidays. Time spent outdoors is good for your overall wellbeing.
(Feature image via Visit Jersey)