Aussies snub overseas holidays amid terror warnings, take to caravanning instead

BEFORE cheap holidays to Bali or Thailand, we packed up the family and headed off to a caravan park. And now the caravan trip is back with a vengeance.

Australian’s are returning to the iconic Australian holiday in droves.

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IT WAS once the great Australian holiday.

And Aussie families are returning to the iconic caravanning getaway in droves.

Before cheap holidays to Bali or Thailand — Australians cherished the opportunity to squeeze the whole family to the back seat and head down to a caravan park by the beach or along the river.

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Hipster James Sheffield loves getting away camping. Picture: Nathan Dyer

Most recently the realm of the grey nomad, senior citizens taking to the road during retirement, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia says more and more people are hitting the road for the iconic caravanning and camping holiday, especially with fears of terror attacks overseas.

“The numbers don’t lie … the unprecedented growth we’ve seen in this quarter represents twenty-one consecutive periods of growth in total overnight caravan and camping trips nationally,” CIAA spokesman Stuart Lamont said.

“The current global environment seems to be encouraging more Australians to travel at home, benefiting local economies and regions right across the country.”

VICTORIA is proving the place to be for interstate tourists as fears over international terrorism cause Australians to swap overseas travel for caravan and camping holidays. Picture: Josie Hayden

Association of Caravan Clubs Victoria and their Members Inc president Ken Slade says there was types of caravanning to suit all ages.

“It’s a great way to see the country,” Mr Slade said.

“There are hundreds of places within Victoria to go caravanning from the Grampians in the western part of the state to Gippsland, to the Great Ocean Road.

“Everyone should give it a go.”

Caravanning, a popular holiday choice for retirees is growing in popularity across all age groups following terror attacks overseas. Picture: iStock

Caravans have changed since the 1970s.

Joining the caravan club himself 20 years ago, Mr Slade says in his association alone there are 26 clubs and 2000 members.

He says over that time he’s noticed quite a change in caravans and road conditions.

“There was once a lot of family vans with bunks and beds in them, but it’s moved to a stage where most are just two people vans that include a shower, toilet, double beds — they are more luxurious and have the mod cons, including fridges and a heater,” he said.

“And it goes without saying that the roads have improved and suspension on cars have changed dramatically.”

Caravan for sale during the 1950s.

Geelong cartage contractor William Fry's deluxe caravan. Built in his backyard from the fuselage of a Douglas aircraft which he bought from a disposals dealer for £40, and converted in eight months. Picture: ARGUS COLLECTION

When asked why Aussies should give it a go — Mr Slade says the freedom of caravanning is a bonus that far outweighs anything else.

“You always have your accommodation with you and you can stay for one night or a week,” he said.

Models pose at Notel, where you can spend a night in a luxurious caravan on top of Melbourne’s CBD in Flinders Lane. Picture: Nicki Connolly

Not sure caravanning is your thing? Why not try glamping on one of Melbourne’s rooftops at Notel.

It features six chrome airstream trailers completely refitted with all of your luxuries including Wi-Fi and your own iPad Pro loaded with Netflix as well as heating and cooling.

While it’s a fun and up-market way to try it out — but will set you back a cool $400 for one night.

One of the first caravans built in Australia rests in the grounds of the regional tourist centre at Nuriootpa in 1990. Picture: Narelle Autio

Viscount pop-up caravan being towed by Holden Commodore sedan in early 1980s.

Nine reasons to give caravanning a go:

Disconnect from the busyness of everyday life

Swap out the cleaning, laundry, grocery shopping and all of life’s mundane tasks for a relaxing time away from the daily grind. Forget about the chores and life’s stress, and get back to the basics with a complete change of pace to the relaxing outdoors.

A Digital detox!

Camping is a great time to take a hiatus away from the technology and truly relax. Whether you’re away with friends or family, make a pack to keep the electronics at home, or at the very least allow sparingly.

Quality time spent with friends and family

Get back to your roots and enjoy the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s playing a game, cooking together, going on a walk, or simply enjoying a drink and a chat — camping is a great way to truly engage with those you care most.

It’s only as intense as you want it to be

You really don’t have to be Bear Grylls to go caravanning or camping — unless that’s what you like. Keep it basic or go the full glamp, the choice is yours.

Reconnect with nature

Victoria is spoiled for choice with so much natural beauty, from a coastal trip with pristine beaches to a country getaway by the river. The vast outback offers breathtakingly beautiful night skies filled with stars or head to the hills to relax among natural bushlands and sight some of our native animals.

Everyone gets the holiday of their dreams

Caravan holiday parks are adventure wonderlands for kids with so much to do and so many new friends to play with. While the kids play, mum and dad have plenty of time to finally unwind and relax. As for the oldies, you’ll never find a more social place to enjoy a five o’clock tipple!

Your best chance for a pet friendly holiday

Say goodbye to the stress of arranging a pet sitter or kennel and let your dog jump in for the ride. After all what’s a holiday without your best bud? Caravan parks are ideal for your dog with plenty of grass and space — just make sure they’re allowed before you plan your visit.

Plenty more bang for your buck

Caravan holiday parks offer a wide range of price points from a simple patch of grass to a fully self-contained luxury cabin. Being able to self-drive and self-cater leaves more money to spend on holiday fun too.

You can find a caravan park almost anywhere

From prime beachfront, riverfront or bushland locations to the more remote, you can find a caravan holiday parks almost anywhere. Whether you only want a short getaway close to the city, or somewhere a bit further, there are plenty of options to choose from.

@melissameehanau

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