October 2009

Caravanning, camping set to lead tourism revival

CCIA forecasts new phase of growth after record show results

Visitors check out the latest offerings at the Penrith Expo

CARAVAN and camping holidays are set to lead the tourism revival, according to the Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW.

The claim follows record sales at last month's Penrith Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo which attracted 25,000 visitors, the biggest attendance ever.

The CCIA maintains that this type of affordable holiday will launch domestic tourism into a new phase of growth as more value-conscious consumers hit the road instead of the skies.

Barry Baillie, deputy chairman of the Tourism Industry Council and CCIA chief executive officer, is aware of the struggles faced by domestic tourism operators since the economic downturn hit Australia in 2008.

"Australians continue to travel, but now they are looking for holidays that won't break the bank and that will still offer the entire family a unique experience," he said.

"For this reason, unlike other tourism sectors which have suffered in visitation over the past year, caravan and camping tourism has experienced increased interest from first-time campers as well as avid enthusiasts looking for more affordable getaways."

Mr Baillie said caravan and camping holidays had something for everyone. "Whether you choose to travel in a caravan or a motorhome, stay in a tent or a five-star holiday park cabin, there is something for every budget and every travel style," he explained.

Camping specialist Anaconda saw a 40 percent rise in sales compared to the 2008 Penrith Expo, while camper trailer manufacturers The Complete Campsite also reported a similar increase in sales in addition to a significant number of post-Expo sales.

And a delighted Aidan Saggers from 7th Street Caravans at Boolaroo, NSW, said sales had quadrupled compared to last year's show.

"This year went through the roof,” he explained. "The abolition of stamp duty by the NSW government in July this year has really had a positive impact on caravan sales over the past two months, as well as at the Penrith Expo."

A Tourism Research Australia report entitled Through the Looking Glass revealed that caravan and camping tourism had been the fastest growing domestic tourism sector in Australia for some years and is tipped to boost the slump in domestic tourism in years to come.

The report pointed out that after 2011, caravan and camping accommodation was forecast to rise by 1.5 percent annually to 45 million in 2020.

For more information about caravan and camping holidays, visit www.caravan-camping.com.au.