What is workation?
The word is a contraction of 'work' and 'vacation'. The principle is to work remotely from a holiday destination, enjoying an inspiring setting. While workations first developed in hotels and villas, they are now coming to campsites. And not just for backpackers: teleworkers, freelancers, start-ups and even companies holding seminars are being won over.
Connected camping: a revolution in progress
- Forget the image of spartan camping. Some establishments are now focusing on:
- Lodges equipped with desks and power sockets.
- High-speed Wi-Fi suitable for video conferencing.
- Coworking-style communal areas where business travellers can network.
- Wellness areas (yoga, spa, meditation) to balance work and relaxation.
The result: a day can start with a Zoom meeting and end with a paddleboarding session, a hike or drinks at sunset.
Concrete examples of workations at campsites
Holidays and work can go hand in hand... especially when your accommodation offers a dedicated coworking space, such as at the Domaine de la Dragonnière campsite. With a meeting room equipped with a TV, high-speed Wi-Fi and an open-plan space with several desks, everything is in place to offer remote workers a calm and functional environment. And once the day is over, it's time for a holiday: head to the swimming pool, take part in a fun activity or simply relax in the sun. The perfect compromise between productivity and relaxation.
Another example is Le Dauphin campsite in Argelès-sur-Mer. Here, you can work remotely under the palm trees, in a space designed for comfort and concentration: soundproofed videoconferencing room, screens available, secure private Wi-Fi and a space that can accommodate up to 8 people. Everything you need to work peacefully for a few hours or all day is provided... before treating yourself to a dip in the heated pools or a well-deserved break in the Mediterranean setting.
Why does it work?
The success of workation camping can be explained by several factors:
- The quest for flexibility: working where you want, when you want.
- The need to disconnect: a change of scenery to stimulate creativity and productivity.
- The appeal of nature: recharging your batteries between assignments.
- A more affordable option than luxury hotels or resorts specialising in digital nomadism.
A lasting trend
Professional nomadism is not a passing fad. According to several recent studies, a growing proportion of workers want to continue teleworking, but in a setting other than their own home. Camping appears to be a hybrid solution: halfway between a holiday and co-working, between adventure and modern comfort.
And tomorrow?
We may soon see the emergence of collaborative camping networks designed to accommodate workers year-round, with subscription packages, professional events (conferences, workshops) and a real community.
Camping, long associated with family holidays, is thus becoming a major player in the nomadic work economy.
✨ In short: workation camping is more than just a trend. It's a new way of thinking about work, one that is freer, more inspiring and closer to nature.