New research reveals 37% of younger Aussies plan to go camping this Summer
As the ‘cara-fan’ lifestyle shows no sign of slowing down, recent data from Tourism Australia reveals Millennials now account for 37 per cent of Australian adventurers for caravan and camping travels, overtaking the grey nomads who account for 24 per cent¹.
Thanks to the pandemic, the camping industry boomed, and it’s growing fast thanks to Millennials with the age group spending on average two to three nights accounting for 5.3 million trips and over 20 million nights in 2022².
According to Emily Willoughby, Park Manager of Esk Caravan Park, the increase in younger campers seems to be due to a few factors, including: “General accessibility to camping and various forms of unique camping accommodations, along with increased access to Wi-Fi and mobile service.”
“People who may not have been interested in camping before are now finding alternative and interesting new ways to camp. Campfire cooking in particular has come a long way since the days of tinned beans and mystery meat,” said Willoughby.
Millennials are accustomed to luxury so it is no surprise this is carried on into their camping and caravanning trips holidays, where they will prioritise a decadent meal at an ideal location by the campfire.
Gold Coast couple Nick Bailey and Jessica Hannagan are just one Aussie couple who create a range of culinary delights. Creating their own signature ‘Hard Lemonade’ cocktail poured into cocktail glasses to accompany their roast pork.
Jessica said their ideal weekend getaway includes a delicious meal in a gorgeous location sitting by the campfire with a cocktail in hand.
“We both work hard so when we go on holiday, we want to make it special and spoil ourselves. Just because we are camping doesn’t mean we have to slum it.
According to Willoughby, Nick and Jessica are not Australia’s only caviar campers.
“We upgraded our facilities in the last couple of years and now have a recognised commercial kitchen with two gas ovens and cooktops, two built in barbeques, one free standing and two gas pizza ovens.
“The pizza ovens are a favourite which sit outside next to our social dining area which seats 80 people on rustic dining tables.
“We also host a monthly gourmet barbeque where an award-winning chef cooks produce from Brisbane Valley Protein giving guests a unique paddock to plate culinary experience, to date every event has been sold out,” concluded Willoughby.
Jason Plant, CEO of Caravan Trade and Industries Association of Queensland reports it is no surprise that millennials are upping their game when it comes to cooking whilst caravanning and camping.
“These days caravans and caravan parks are equipped with fully functional kitchens and modern appliances to accommodate the increasing foodie trend.
“But you will also see so many millennials getting creative and sharing recipes they have produced at campfires on social media,” said Plant.
In the last 12 months there has been a 305% increase in campfire cooking Google searches and in the last month on TikTok #campfirecooking trended achieving over 800,000 views.
¹ Caravan or camping total accommodation year end 2022
² Caravan and Camping State of Industry 2023
Plan your next adventure at the 2023 Let’s Go Brisbane Caravan and Outdoor Sale
For those either looking to upgrade their caravan or outdoor equipment you can’t beat the Brisbane Caravan and Outdoor Sale where over 120 exhibitors will offer something for everyone, showcasing the best prices on RVs, products and technology.
A great day out for the whole family, this year includes a special kid’s zone, presented by CIL Insurance with arts, crafts and activities for the little ones to enjoy. There is even a challenging Rock Wall for the older, more adventurous Kids!
Additionally, on Saturday and Sunday there will also be a special guest appearance from none other than children’s television superstar, Bluey. See Bluey and Bingo live on stage at the “Bluey Live Interactive Experience”, plus meet and greets.
Follow Nick and Jess on their social's below!
Gates will be open from 9:00am to 5:00pm daily. With FREE TransLink train and connecting shuttle bus services to the Brisbane Showgrounds there is no reason not to take the family out for a fun-filled day at Caravanning Queensland’s Caravan and Outdoor Sale!
Date:
Thursday, October 26 – Sunday, October 29, 2023
Location:
Brisbane Showgrounds, 600 Gregory Terrace, Bowen Hills
Time:
9.00am to 5.00pm daily
Tickets:
Adults 1 Day $16.00 / 2 Day $27.00
Concession 1 Day $14.00 / 2 Day $22
Accompanied school age children free
For more information or to purchase tickets, please visit Caravanning Queensland’s website.
About Caravanning Queensland
Caravanning Queensland is the peak industry body for caravan dealers, manufacturers, camping suppliers, service providers and caravan park operators through two related associations. These are the Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland and the Caravan Parks Association of Queensland Inc.
