Weather hasn’t dampened camping spirit, especially for kids
Despite the less than impressive summer this year, the weather hasn’t dampened our camping spirit or sense of adventure as more Irish people are choosing to go on camping holidays than ever before.
Niamh D’Arcy, chairperson of the Irish Caravan and Camping Council (ICC), said: “Weather doesn’t factor into most peoples’ decision to go camping. We find that once kids know that they’ll be sleeping in a tent, there’s very little that will put them off.”
“ICC members have invested heavily in on-park facilities and activities including in-door games rooms, tv rooms and kids clubs as well as making outdoor activities fun even when the sun isn’t shining,” D’arcy added. She confirmed that there’s been a 16% per cent increase in the number of Irish people going camping so far this year.
Seasoned camper Laura O’ Sullivan from Clare said: “The weather never puts me off camping. It’s all part of the fun! My kids love playing in the rain. My advice is to just remember to pack the raingear.
“And if you’re the more adventurous sort, there’s nothing better than water sports in the rain. Kayaking, fishing and other water sports are always great when it’s raining because you’re going to get wet anyway,” she added.
Louisa O’ Callaghan from Cork, another camping aficionado, agrees. “I wouldn’t let weather dictate my travel plans as it could be raining before you leave and the sun shining when you reach your destination. You just have to pack for all eventualities with good quality raingear a must,” she said. “And when it comes to camping, rain can make the experience even more fun, especially for kids. I’ve been told that rain pants make the slides faster!”
There are approximately 100 caravan and camping parks around the country, all of which are Fáilte Ireland approved. It is estimated that caravan and camping generates in excess of €100 million for the local economy. For more information, visit www.camping-ireland.ie
ENDS.
