Caravan Parks keep the family on holidays in Australia

Fun is about good times and getting wet courtesy Alpine Tourism

Despite the rising cost of living, many Australians still enjoy regular, affordable family holidays. Year after year they pack their bags to visit new places, meet new people and have new experiences while sharing important time together as a family.

And the equipment to make it all happen is on display at the Bendigo Recreational Vehicle & Camping Leisurefest at Bendigo Racecourse from 10 am to 5 pm, today Friday 24 to Sunday 26 November. Visit www.leisurefest.com.au for more information.

Camper Trailer Leisurefest Bendigo

Whether they choose to camp in tents, travel with a camper or tent trailer in tow, or invest in a more spacious caravan, Australian families are experiencing the many benefits associated with holidays and relaxation in the great outdoors.

They’re also enjoying the latest upgraded facilities and amenities of caravan and holiday parks which have undergone major transformations in recent years.

 And caravanning and camping equipment and products have also evolved, adding comfort and luxuries you may not expect.

“Caravanning and camping is accessible to anyone. Its lots of fun, it’s very affordable and every holiday can be vastly different from the last,” said Peter Wright, executive officer of Caravan Industry Victoria and Leisurefest show organiser.

GoSeeAustralia 4WD gets in deep (in the sand)

“There are thousands of great holidays to choose from, and the great thing is that once you’ve invested in the basic equipment, your holidays don’t have to cost the earth. Plus caravans, campers and tent trailers hold their value. So if you’re looking to sell or upgrade, you’ll get a great return on your original investment,” he told GoSeeAustralia.

If you haven’t visited a caravan park for a few years you’re likely to discover that a lot has changed. Many are now equipped with playgrounds, swimming pools, internet cafes, shops and restaurants. And they’re located in some of this country’s most spectacular settings.

But don’t forget, bookings are essential, particularly during busy periods. At an average of  about $25 a site per night,  (it can be higher  in peak periods) it’s no wonder.

Lakeside breakfast for two Lake Hume forshore GoSee Australia pic

Gear up for an off road adventure

Off road travel is gaining popularity in Australia as it becomes easier, safer and more comfortable to head off the beaten track on new adventures.

Last year, tent trailer and camper trailer manufacture grew by more than 15 per cent, particularly the off road sector which caters to the more adventurous 18 to 45 year olds. Industry experts expect this segment to continue growing, particularly in the $10,000 - $20,000 price bracket.

Caravan Industry Victoria executive officer and Leisurefest show organiser Peter Wright attributes the growth of this market to the popularity of the sector among young families.

All the way to the beach. Surf School, One Mile Beach

”For a relatively low investment families can enjoy a different holiday year after year with a camper,” Peter Wright said.

 “The added benefit of towing a camper or tent trailer is that you can effectively hitch up your bedroom, living area and kitchen to the back of your car and head out pretty much anywhere.”

As the industry grows so too do the vast range of products and accessories for the added comfort and style. From suspension systems, solar power and navigation and communications equipment to portable showers and toilets, roof racks, driving lights, tyres and more, there are thousands of products and accessories available to improve any off road adventure.

“The 4WD and off road displays at Leisurefest are hugely popular year after year and visitors are always interested in the latest gadgets and accessories,” Peter Wright said. 

“These products make off road travel safer and easier and therefore more accessible, especially for people who previously didn’t have the confidence to stray off a bitumen road.”

Take five or six or seven or...courtesy Alpine Tourism

The RV & Camping Leisurefest is on at Bendigo Racecourse from 10 am to 5 pm, Friday 24 to Sunday 26 November. Visit www.leisurefest.com.au for more information.

Great Christmas gift ideas at Leisurefest

The Bendigo RV and Camping Leisurefest falls close to Christmas and it will be a great place to stock up on not only on your own holiday products and ideas but also presents for your family and friends.

If those around you love the outdoors, you will find all the latest camping equipment including tents, sleeping bags, clothing, cooking and cleaning accessories. Plus you will discover a host of gadgets you probably didn’t even know existed like tent peg removers and egg carriers.

Room for the Biguns Swan Hill Riverside Top Tourist Caravan Park

If your friends are a little more adventurous and like to head off road in their 4-wheel drives, there will be a complete range of accessories from leading suppliers including ARB. You’re sure to find a few luxury extras that will enhance any off road adventure.

There will even be boating and fishing gear for dad.

And if you’re looking for something different for caravanning enthusiasts, there will be more manufacturers and suppliers in the one place than you will find anywhere else this year. So you can speak with industry experts to discover the latest trends and touring accessories for a great Christmas gift.

So if you are stuck for Christmas ideas or looking for something a little different this year, don’t miss the RV & Camping Leisurefest. It’s on at Bendigo Racecourse from 24 to 26 November, 10 am to 5 pm daily.

Editor's Note also see: 

What is GoSeeAustralia all about?

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Cabin alternative wins Aussie family vote

Cabins first choice for family holidays

Meet Luke, the future for Caravan Parks in Australia

GoSeeAustralia finds One Mile Beach Port Stephens a caravan park paradise

Kids are King in Caravan Parks 

Bodyboarding Great Ocean Road

Children love the playground equipment courtesy BIG4