Huge boom in caravan and RV vehicles drives Tasmania’s visitor number growth

The state continues to outshine the rest of the country, attracting higher numbers of domestic travellers with their caravans and campers in tow for the fourth consecutive year.

Travelling baby boomers, grey nomads, and younger, adventure-seeking families are driving a tourism boom in Tasmania. Picture: iStock

Travelling baby boomers, grey nomads, and younger, adventure-seeking families are driving a tourism boom in Tasmania as the state continues to outshine the rest of the country, attracting higher numbers of domestic travellers.

Tourism Research Australia’s latest mobility data shows that Tasmania’s visitor numbers grew faster than any other state or territory in August 2024, with the largest percentage increases in overnight trips, daytrips and nights by up to 9 per cent.

Federal Trade and Tourism Minister Don Farrell said tourism was a key economic driver for Tasmania, directly contributing billions of dollars to the local economy.

“This data shows the strength of Tasmania’s tourism industry, supporting more businesses, more jobs and more opportunities for the community,” Mr Farrell said.

“It’s wonderful to see Tasmanian tourism growing strongly. Whether it be wine tasting, heritage towns, feasting on famously good food, or exploring the natural wonders, Tasmania has something for everyone.

“I encourage Australians to continue to get out and explore our magnificent country, knowing that not only will you have a great experience, but that you are also contributing to the creation of more jobs and opportunities in our communities.”

In 2023, caravan and camping accommodation in Tasmania grew by 7.4 per cent, or 30,000 visitors, for a fourth consecutive year of growth.

Various RV caravan camper on a campsite at the holiday caravan park surrounding by nature.

Tasmanian Labor Senator Helen Polley said the federal government was working to support tourism in Tasmania and the around 43,000 locals it employs.

“The Australian caravan and camping industry contributes $23bn to our economy. It directly supports the Tasmanian tourism sector and the 50 caravan parks across our great state,” Senator Polley said.

In the last four months, Launceston and the North, and the North-West tourism regions performed relatively better across all trip types, while the West Coast demonstrated the strongest growth in overnight trips and total nights.

Caravan Industry Association of Australia chief executive Stuart Lamont said Tasmanian caravan parks had demonstrated a strong focus on developing the customer offering over the last couple of years.

“Through significant capital investment across the state, parks have transformed their product offering, ensuring there is something for everyone,” he said.

“Seeing the tourism numbers uptick is a real pay back for the focus on customer experience and investment in park infrastructure shown by caravan parks in Tasmania.”

G’day Group chief executive Grant Wilckens said it was great to see more people exploring the state and considering a caravan or camping trip.

“[The figures] are a testament to the ongoing appeal of Tasmania as a top travel destination,” he said.

“Our holiday parks across the state have been bustling with visitors, with 20 per cent more nights sold over the past three months compared with the prior year, and forward bookings are showing this trend is likely to continue.”

Originally published as Huge boom in caravan and RV vehicles drives Tasmania’s visitor number growth