Seasonal rental is a booming sector in France. Over the last few years, we have seen incredible growth in this market, with record numbers of visitors in certain regions and periods. With the perspective of our agency concierge and rental management in Marne-la-Vallée, we will explore the trends and key figures of this constantly evolving sector. We will thus approach the vacation rental market in the broad sense and particularly addressing rental on the Airbnb model but also in more traditional rental modes.
Tourism trends driving the vacation rental market
To understand the explosion of the vacation rental market in France, it is essential to take into account current tourism trends. Several factors have contributed to this impressive growth:
- Green and nature tourism : Vacationers are increasingly looking for destinations where they can spend time outdoors. According to a study by the travel agency Tourlane, 68% of vacationers are looking for a destination focused on green and nature tourism.
- Local tourism : Local travel has become extremely popular, with a preference for destinations close to home. The French favor traveling within their own country, which benefits the seasonal rental market. This was also one of the trends that strongly emerged after the covid health crisis but which continued in the following years.
- Family stay : Family vacations are also on the rise, with 88% of French people saying they enjoy vacations together. Vacation rentals offer more spacious space and family-friendly layouts, making them an attractive choice.
- Cycle tourism : Bicycle tourism is also growing in popularity, with 52% of French people declaring themselves attracted to this form of tourism. The French regions offer magnificent landscapes conducive to the practice of cycle tourism, which stimulates the demand for seasonal rentals. The creation of cycling routes, Eurovélo trails in the first place and their popularity actively contribute to this phenomenon.
- Last minute and early bookings : Booking habits are changing, with around 30% of stays booked at the last minute. However, more and more travelers are also booking well in advance to ensure they have choice and control their budget. These two trends therefore coexist favorably to create a very dynamic market.
- Increase in direct bookings : Travelers are increasingly resorting to direct reservations with establishments. According to a study by Coach Omnium, 70% of travelers booked directly in 2022, compared to only 30% in 2017.
- Flexible booking conditions : The French favor flexible booking conditions, with 38% of them opting for this option in 2023. This flexibility allows travelers to adapt to last minute changes and is also one of the important points highlighted by the Airbnb platform which regularly communicates on this subject.
These tourism trends have contributed to the spectacular growth of the vacation rental market in France. Travelers are looking for accommodations that meet their specific needs, and vacation rentals often offer an ideal solution.
The explosion of gîtes in France
Among the different types of seasonal accommodation, lodges are experiencing impressive growth. Gîtes, also called furnished tourist accommodation, are furnished villas, apartments or studios available for rental for short stays.
According to Glenn Fogel, CEO and director of Booking.com, the vacation rental market is set to explode, with a forecast of quadrupling by 2030. Nights in alternative accommodations have already increased by around 56% per year. compared to 2021, representing approximately 30% of Booking.com's total room nights in 2022.
Gîtes are particularly popular in France, as they provide comfortable, self-catering accommodation for travelers. Additionally, they allow owners to generate additional income by renting out their property during periods of high demand while having the opportunity to enjoy it themselves in the low or mid season.
Direct bookings and long-term stays
An interesting trend in the vacation rental industry is travelers' growing preference for direct bookings, particularly for long-term stays. Nearly 40% of reservations for stays of eight nights or more are made directly by travelers.
This trend can be explained by several factors. First, travelers appreciate the direct relationship with the rental owner or manager, which allows them to ask specific questions and receive personalized service. Additionally, direct bookings can often offer lower rates because they eliminate commission fees from booking platforms.
Travelers are also becoming less hesitant to book in advance. Around a third of bookings made in January 2023 were made at least three months before departure. This trend shows that travelers are confident in their ability to plan and anticipate their vacations, even during uncertain times.
Prices and direct reservations
Prices in the seasonal rental market are also experiencing interesting developments. On average, prices per night have fallen by 4%, but rates for direct bookings are often higher.
This price difference is explained by the commission fees of the booking platforms, which are added to the published rates. By booking directly with the rental owner or manager, travelers can often benefit from lower rates. Of course, platforms remain essential to enable connections between travelers and owners or managers.
It is important for owners to understand this dynamic and offer competitive rates for direct bookings. This can be an effective way to attract travelers and maximize rental revenue.
A dynamic and constantly evolving market:
The seasonal rental market in France is experiencing impressive growth, driven by current tourism trends. Travelers are looking for accommodations that meet their specific needs, with a growing preference for self-catering accommodations. Direct bookings and long-term stays are also on the rise, providing new opportunities for owners and rental managers.
It is essential for players in this market to understand current trends and developments, in order to be able to adapt their offers and maximize their success. By offering competitive rates, flexible booking terms and personalized service, owners can attract travelers and stand out in a competitive market.
Seasonal rental in France is a promising sector, offering many opportunities for owners and travelers. By understanding the trends and adapting their strategies, players in this market can take advantage of this unbridled growth and thrive in the tourism industry.
