abf Hannover – The trade fair for travel, leisure, and mobility

The abf in Hannover is one of Germany's most traditional leisure trade fairs and a place of inspiration for anyone who loves to travel—whether by motorhome, bicycle, cruise ship, or on foot. Every spring, the Hanover Exhibition Center is transformed into a meeting place for travel enthusiasts, outdoor enthusiasts, caravanning fans, and people who want to spend their free time actively and consciously. The abbreviation “abf” stands for “Auto – Boot – Freizeit” (car – boat – leisure), although the thematic focus has continued to evolve and refine over the decades.

abf Hannover Fair for Travel Leisure and Mobility
Travel, leisure and mobility at abf © Deutsche Messefilm & Medien GmbH

Originally launched in the 1970s as an automobile trade fair, abf has long since developed into a major experience world for vacation and leisure culture. The focus is on trends and innovations in the areas of travel, caravanning, outdoor activities, active sports, bicycles, cuisine, and regional discoveries. If you are looking for inspiration for your next vacation, want to discover new leisure trends or purchase camping and outdoor accessories, the abf is the perfect place for you.

Leisure fair with an experiential character

The abf is not just an information platform, but an event where you can participate, try things out and experience them for yourself. Visitors can expect a wide range of offerings in several themed halls – from impressive travel reports and culinary markets to activity zones where products can be tested and sports tried out. Numerous exhibitors will present new travel destinations, vehicles, tents, technology, bicycles, equipment, and accessories – everything that plays a role in leisure and vacation. Anyone interested in other leisure and travel fairs in the region will find what they are looking for at Hannover Messe. There you will find an up-to-date overview of events related to mobility, outdoor activities, and tourism—from public fairs to specialized trade shows.

Travel, caravanning, and camping

Two particularly popular areas of the fair are ReiseLust and the large hall dedicated to caravanning and camping. Here, tour operators, regions, and countries from Germany and around the world present their offerings – from sustainable slow travel and active vacations to long-distance trips and city breaks. Many stands invite visitors to linger, whether with typical local food samples, VR experiences, or personal consultations. The hall for motorhomes, caravans, and camping accessories is traditionally a crowd-puller. Whether compact campervans, fully integrated motorhomes or innovative accessories such as solar panels, air tents or self-sufficient water systems – here, beginners and experienced campers alike will find everything they need for their mobile travels. Expert advice, direct product comparisons and often trade fair offers make this area particularly attractive.

eBike course and bicycle trends

Another highlight is the bicycle area, which includes a large indoor test track. Visitors can test ride e-bikes, city bikes, gravel bikes, folding bikes, and children's bikes and get comprehensive advice. New developments in drive technology, navigation, ergonomics, and safety are presented, as well as accessories for transport, protective clothing, and smart gadgets. The growing market for e-mobility in particular is showcased at abf from its everyday practical side: many manufacturers use the trade fair to present their latest models in a realistic environment. Offers for cycle tourism and cycling tours, for example along the Weser Cycle Route or through European nature parks, are also part of the bicycle area.

Theme worlds for connoisseurs, families, and active people

But abf is not only aimed at technology and travel enthusiasts, but also at people who enjoy spending their free time in other ways. In the “Travel & Enjoyment” world, visitors can discover culinary specialities from all over the world, regional producers, delicatessens and wineries. Tastings, cooking shows and hands-on activities invite visitors to enjoy and discover. Another crowd puller is the activity area, where trend sports such as SUP, climbing, trail running and yoga are presented. Workshops, short introductory courses and lectures provide variety – especially for families with children, who are introduced to exercise and nature in a playful way.

Education, inspiration, and sustainable ideas

Topics such as sustainable travel, eco-friendly camping, regionality, and environmental education are becoming increasingly important at the abf. Many providers show how travel and leisure can be combined with climate and resource protection—for example, through CO₂ offsetting, reusable materials, or innovative transport solutions. Workshops on travel planning without flying and plastic-free camping tips are also part of the program. In addition, there are several stage formats at the fair where experts, travel bloggers, journalists, and scientists share their experiences and recommendations. From travel inspiration and safety tips to political developments in the field of mobility, abf is not just a consumer event, but also offers space for critical reflection and future-oriented solutions.

Hanover as the gateway to an adventure-filled region

The fact that abf takes place in Hanover makes sense not only from a logistical point of view – the city itself is located in a region that offers many attractive leisure destinations, including the Harz Mountains, the Lüneburg Heath, the Weserbergland and numerous lakes. The trade fair also sees itself as a showcase for what is possible right on the doorstep: sustainable, relaxing and inspiring holidays close to home. With its modern halls, central location, and excellent transport links, the Hannover Exhibition Center is the ideal venue for such a diverse trade fair format. The relaxed atmosphere, good catering facilities, and wide range of visitors also contribute to the abf's popularity, which has been enjoyed for decades.

Conclusion: The abf Hannover – a desire for life, a desire for the outdoors

The abf is a fixed date in the calendar of all those who are enthusiastic about travel, leisure, mobility, and the outdoors. It combines information with experience, inspiration with concrete benefits – and creates an atmosphere in which a visit to the trade fair is not only informative but also entertaining. Whether you want to get an overview of the latest trends, gather new ideas, or simply get in the mood for your next vacation, you will find the right offer at abf Hannover – for every age, every situation, and every requirement.

Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.abf-hannover.de

Events at the ➤Hanover Trade Fair