Exhausted by Isolation Amid COVID-19
Enjoying Private Time with 'Chabak'
'Rooftop Camping' Using Home Veranda or Rooftop
Sales of Tents, Tables, and Grills Also Up Since April
[Asia Economy Reporter Minyoung Cha] "My younger sibling, who recently discovered a new interest in camping, ordered a tent and blankets. One weekend afternoon, we went up to the rooftop and set up the tent, and the breeze brushing against my nose felt wonderful." (Jinyoung Han, a pseudonym, in her 20s, office worker)
Modern people, exhausted from isolated life due to the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19), have found an escape in camping, where they can enjoy private time. Unique camping cultures such as 'rooftop camping' or 'chabak (car + lodging),' where families or friends enjoy themselves while minimizing contact with outsiders, are also gaining popularity.
According to related industries on the 20th, the number of 'homeping (home + camping)' people who create a camping atmosphere on rooftops or balconies, and 'chabak' people who sleep in their cars, is increasing. In fact, searching the hashtag 'rooftop camping' on Instagram yields more than 17,000 posts. Videos related to 'camping' on YouTube channels have also surged.
Sales of camping supplies are also on the rise. Emart Traders analyzed camping supplies sales from April 1 to May 14 and found that camping goods such as tents, sleeping bags, and wagons increased by 147.6%, and barbecue supplies grew by 90.2% compared to the same period last year. Especially, products specialized for home camping showed strong sales: burner-type barbecue grill sales increased by 272%, and sales of shading products such as gazebos and pergolas rose by 113%. Artificial turf and garden lights, which can make the home cozy, grew by 36.2% and 12.2%, respectively.
According to Homeplus, camping supplies sales from March to May this year grew by 46% compared to the same period last year. Sales of camping tables and chairs increased by 96%, air beds by 43%, shade tents by 36%, camping cooking utensils by 106%, BBQ grills by 109%, burners by 90%, kettles by 44%, and charcoal and firewood by 9%. In early June, from the 1st to the 5th, sales of key items such as shade tents, folding cabinets, and mini camping tables increased by up to 169% compared to the previous year. This surge is attributed to the recent release of imported goods that had been scarce due to the suspension of Chinese factory operations, attracting many customers eager to secure these products.
For those who find preparing for camping bothersome, how about a one-night lodging package? It draws attention as an alternative that can evoke a more romantic and private camping atmosphere. The L'Escape Hotel, building on the positive response to its existing summer package 'Summer Edition City Break,' has enhanced benefits and newly launched the package. To accommodate all types of customers, the hotel's 7th floor has been designated as the 'Romantic Camping Zone,' and the 8th-floor outdoor terrace and banquet hall lobby foyer spaces have been opened. Through a partnership with Starbucks Coffee, guests can enjoy various Starbucks items. The package is available until August 31.
Phoenix Pyeongchang has introduced the 'All-Inclusive Forest Trekking' package, which allows guests to experience Forest Park. Forest Park offers programs for people of all ages to breathe fresh air, connect with nature, and engage in various outdoor activities. The package includes one night's accommodation, breakfast, forest camping BBQ, wellness forest trekking, wine pairing, and a sightseeing gondola ride. It is available for two adults on weekdays from July 17 to August 22.
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