November 14, 2022
Want to simply head out on the weekend without having to book a campsite in advance? This was no longer possible for a long time, as the overuse of many sites, sometimes by geotag apps, created a wild camping problem in popular regions. As a result, many municipalities imposed camping bans because they were overwhelmed by the situation.
With Parkn'Sleep, the parking app for campers, the management of simple motorhome parking spaces has been possible since 2021. Campers drive to the pitch spontaneously and check in and pay digitally on site using a QR code. In principle, the system is similar to a parking app for cars. Only with a touristic approach. For example, campers can see live availability in the app's parking space directory, are informed about parking space rules and behavior and automatically pay the tourist tax to the municipalities.
Traveling away by camper is often combined with (weather-dependent) activities such as skiing, hiking or mountain biking. This allows guests to arrive in the evening and head straight up the mountain in the morning. Many mountain railroads now provide signalized areas for campers and settle the overnight stay fees and tourism taxes with Parkn'Sleep.
In the following interview with Michael Wehrli from Säntis-Schwebebahn AG, you can find out how such parking spaces can now be created and managed with little effort.
Around 180 Swiss municipalities are already connected to the visitor's tax levy. Parkn'Sleep received the top Swiss tourism award "Milestone Excellence in Tourism 2021" for this concept last year and is also working with the Swiss Touring Club (TCS). The aim is to make spontaneous travel by camper possible again.
Michael, since when has the Säntisbahn been using the Parkn'Sleep system?
We have been using Parkn'Sleep since May 2022.
What was the main reason for the collaboration?
We wanted a system that "runs autonomously" and does not generate any extra administrative work.
What do you see as the advantages of Parkn'Sleep for the Säntisbahn?
In addition to the extra income, we mainly wanted to create order on site and separate the motorhomes from the cars. We now have the motorhomes where we want them.
How many Parkn'Sleep pitches do you offer campers?
We currently have 11 signalized parking spaces available.
How many overnight stays were you able to generate with Parkn'Sleep this season?
We have already recorded 370 "check-ins". That's around 600 overnight stays. Most people are traveling in pairs or stay more than just one night.
How has "self-check-in" been received by guests?
By and large unproblematic. Guests are now used to digital processes. The biggest problem is when a foreign camper doesn't have roaming, but these are rather rare cases.
Are you planning to use Parkn'Sleep all year round? Or do you see it more as a mid-season solution?
Initially, we had only planned to operate during the summer months, as it is a bit difficult to clear snow from the large square. However, after the successful summer with Parkn'Sleep, we would now like to run two or three pitches right next to the building.
For which mountain railroads do you think the introduction of Parkn'Sleep is worthwhile and why?
Basically, you have to have a parking lot infrastructure that makes it possible to offer reasonably level SPs. Why is that? It's quite simple, we can't afford not to accommodate this growing customer segment.
What added value does this Parkn'Sleep solution bring to Schwägalp?
It is a small proportion of the total turnover. However, it should not be underestimated, as campers are always welcome and have a lasting experience with the Säntisbahn and the entire destination.
Your personal conclusion?
We are very happy with your concept. It is easy to use for the camper and an uncomplicated system for us, which simplifies our everyday life and also generates added value.
The Säntis, the highest mountain in the Lake Constance region - nestled in one of the most beautiful natural settings in Europe - offers a unique panoramic view of six countries from its summit. Together with the Schwägalp, the nature adventure park and the many hiking trails, it is the best-known and most popular destination for excursions, events and "wellbeing".
We offer our guests a unique mountain experience with exciting encounters in a modern and trustworthy infrastructure. With our authentic, friendly and service-oriented staff and our high-quality, varied and customer-oriented gastronomy and hotel business, we are the perfect host.
Find out more at www.saentisbahn.ch
You can now become a co-owner of Parkn'Sleep by buying digital shares in our company.
You can find out how to do this here:
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