Host, camping

What does a camping host do? – Tasks and work environment

A camping host is responsible for ensuring guests have a pleasant stay and a positive experience during their time at the facility. Tasks range from welcoming and checking in guests, answering questions, providing tips about local activities, to handling bookings and basic administrative duties. Many hosts also assist with practical chores such as cleaning communal areas, maintaining the campsite, and sometimes selling in the reception or shop. The work environment is often outdoor-based with close contact with guests and colleagues, and work may include both day and evening shifts, especially during the high season when the pace is fast and task variety is high.

Salary development over time

The salary for a camping host has developed positively in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 27,600 SEK per month, rising in 2023 to 28 900. In 2024, the average salary reached 30 400, representing an increase of approximately 10.1% over three years. This trend reflects a general pattern within the hospitality industry, where increased demand for service staff and a greater focus on guest experience quality have contributed to higher salary levels. Competition for seasonal workers and increased requirements for language skills and flexibility have also positively impacted salary levels. At the same time, differences remain between regions and employers, with private sector and larger campsite operators often offering slightly higher wages.

Camping host salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 26,900 SEK/month (female, pre-high school education)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education)
• Hourly wage: 183 SEK (based on 166 hours/month)
• Women's average salary: 30 100 SEK/month (97% of men's salary)
• Men's average salary: 31 000 SEK/month
• Regional differences: Salaries can vary, often higher in tourist-heavy areas and larger campsites.

Education and qualifications

To work as a camping host, usually no formal education is required, but experience in service roles and good language skills are highly meritorious. Many employers prefer applicants who have completed high school with a focus on hotel, tourism, or commerce. Practical experience from similar roles, such as in hotels or restaurants, is an advantage, and some employers offer internal training or induction programs.

• High school education: Hotel and tourism programs (3 years) are recommended
• Internal training: Introduction and further training at the workplace are common
• Language skills: Swedish and English are required; additional languages are an advantage
• Internship: Workplace-based learning or internships in the service industry are common
• Service experience: Previous work in customer service, reception, or tourism is valuable

Common benefits and compensations

Camping hosts often have access to staff accommodation during the season, discounted or free meals, and sometimes staff benefits such as free activities at the site. Compensation for unsociable hours and seasonal bonuses may occur, especially during the high season. Pension, holiday pay, and collective agreement conditions are usually included if the employer is bound by a collective agreement.

Competition and challenges

The job market for camping hosts is characterized by high competition during the low season but high demand during summer months. Many positions are seasonal, which means the availability of jobs varies greatly throughout the year. A challenge is that many seek these jobs to combine work with travel or studies, leading to high staff turnover. Additionally, recruiting experienced staff, especially for larger facilities and tourist-heavy regions, is difficult. Flexibility, language skills, and service experience are key competitive advantages for those who want to establish and develop within the profession.

Tips for aspiring camping hosts

To succeed as a camping host, it is good to have a strong service mindset and enjoy meeting new people daily. Flexibility and stress resistance help when workload varies and the pace is sometimes high, especially during peak season. Good communication skills and language abilities are essential for providing good information to guests from different countries. Showing initiative and quickly handling unexpected situations is appreciated by employers and guests alike. Responsibility and thoroughness build trust with colleagues and managers and increase chances of recurring employment. A positive and solution-oriented attitude contributes to a good working atmosphere and makes the workday more enjoyable and rewarding.

Key facts about camping hosts

• Salary range: 26,900–32,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 30 400 SEK/month
• Education requirements: High school recommended, practical experience valuable
• Work environment: Outdoors, varying pace, direct guest contact
• Demand: High during summer, 123 job openings in the profession

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as a camping host, there may be opportunities to move into supervisory roles, such as reception manager or site supervisor. Others choose to broaden their skills into event planning, booking management, or work in related sectors like hotels and tourism. The Employment Service's forecast for the hotel receptionists' profession, including camping hosts, shows good job prospects nationally and expected stability in the coming years. However, there is a paradox: despite a large potential pool of part-time workers, recruitment difficulties persist, especially for experienced and multilingual candidates. Those demonstrating commitment and a willingness to develop have good chances for advancement within the industry.

Frequently asked questions about camping hosts

• What does a camping host earn?
  - The average salary for a camping host is 30 400 SEK per month.
• What is the salary range for camping hosts?
  - Salaries vary from 26,900 SEK to 32,200 SEK per month depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there gender differences in salary?
  - Yes, women earn on average 97% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a camping host?
  - High school education in hotel and tourism is recommended, but practical experience is often more important.
• How does the season affect the job market?
  - Demand for camping hosts is highest during the summer, as most positions are seasonal.
• What career opportunities are there?
  - Advancement to supervisory roles or further education within hotel, tourism, and event sectors is possible.
• How many job openings are there in the profession?
  - Currently, there are 123 job openings including hotel receptionists and others.