What does the VAT increase mean for your recreation park?

Insight, impact and opportunities to get started

VAT increase affects entire industry

The announced increase in the low VAT rate raises many questions within the recreation industry. What exactly is going to change? What does it mean for your guests, your pricing strategy and your margins?

With the right preparation, you can not only limit the impact, but actually set your course stronger and more consciously. Here's how to do that step by step.

What exactly is changing?

The government plans to increase the low VAT rate from 9 to 12 percent. This increase will apply to overnight stays at vacation parks, campgrounds, in hotels and B&Bs, among others. Implementation is scheduled for Jan. 1, 2026, although this is still subject to political decision-making.

Important to know: this VAT increase only applies to the lodging component. Additional services such as breakfast, wellness or late check-out remain taxable separately.

What does this mean for your park?

Pricing

You face an obvious choice. Do you raise the price for your guests, or do you take the increase (in part) for your own account?

Behavior of your guests

Higher prices can affect booking behavior, especially among price-sensitive audiences such as young families or last-minute bookers.

Competition with foreign countries

Similar stays across the border - for example, in Germany or Belgium - have different VAT rates. Therefore, the difference in price may become larger.

Seasonal influences

Guests are often especially sensitive to price changes in the off-season. The VAT increase could actually create additional pressure there.

A mathematical example

Suppose you offer a weekend stay for 500 euros, including 9 percent VAT.

That means: 458.72 euros excluding VAT and 41.28 euros VAT.

After the VAT increase, that same amount excluding VAT will become 513.77 euros including 12 percent VAT.

Do you choose to raise the price? Then your guest will pay 13.77 euros more.

Do you leave the price the same? Then you lose 13.77 euros on your margin.

What can you do right now?

Choose your pricing strategy

Are you going to raise prices? Then make sure your guests know in time. Be clear and explain it.

Do you choose to keep your prices the same? Then take a critical look at where you can save without compromising on quality.

Add additional value

Create smart packages that include breakfast, activities or late check-out, for example.

Use seasonal offers or offer loyalty benefits for returning guests.

Communicate openly and clearly

Guests appreciate it when you are transparent. Tell honestly why prices change. You can do this in an e-mail, through a clear message during the booking process or with a brief explanation upon arrival.

Manage your costs slim

See if you can save on energy, cleaning or purchasing, for example. Small adjustments can add up to a big difference, as long as you pay attention to what your guests care about.

See also the opportunities

A change like this is difficult, but it can also be an opportunity to renew and become stronger.

• Work more consciously and sustainably
• Invest in your regular guests and reward loyalty
• Put extra effort into service, hospitality and experience

Especially now, you make a difference with quality and attention.

What can you already do today?

• Map the financial impact for your park
• Determine which pricing strategy suits you and your target audience
• Inform your team so that everyone carries the same message
• Seek support where necessary, such as from your accountant or industry association

Thinking ahead pays off

The VAT increase is coming. That's a given. But how you deal with it will determine the outcome. By making choices now and communicating clearly, you stay in control and stay ahead of your guests.