Spain's tourism industry is experiencing a significant shift, driven by a growing demand for pet-friendly travel options. This trend is fueled by the country's strong pet ownership culture, with over half of Spanish households including animal companions. Consequently, travel decisions are increasingly being made with pets' needs in mind, prompting the tourism sector to expand its offerings.
Outdoor accommodations are particularly favored by travelers with pets. Pitchup.com, a booking platform for outdoor stays, reported an 83% increase in mentions of "dog" in camper reviews when comparing the current year to 2019, highlighting the importance of the "pet-friendly" designation in destination selection. TAIGA Conil, a camping resort in Cádiz, exemplifies this by welcoming pets for an additional fee of €6 per night, offering various accommodation types from bungalows to glamping tents.
Across Spain, over 93% of campsites listed on Pitchup.com now accept pets. Nearly 10% of these sites provide specialized amenities for animals, such as dedicated parks, and more than half offer convenient nearby areas for dog walking. To further assist pet owners, Pitchup.com has introduced a new search filter to specify the number of dogs being brought on a trip.
The trend reflects a deeper appreciation for shared experiences, with pets increasingly viewed as integral family members. Dan Yates, founder of Pitchup.com, notes that traveling with pets has become a fundamental requirement for a substantial portion of customers, significantly influencing destination choices and acting as a key differentiator for accommodations. This sentiment is echoed by travelers who prioritize natural environments and the ability to enjoy outdoor activities with their dogs.
The appeal of pet-friendly travel in Spain extends internationally, with research indicating that over 56% of UK travelers now prefer holidays with their pets. Furthermore, travelers with pets tend to have a higher average nightly expenditure of €72.6, which is 23% more than the average Spanish traveler, presenting a notable economic opportunity for destinations that embrace this trend.