NSW recorded its highest ever number of overnight stays by caravanners last year, with Baby Boomers loving hitting the open road.
New data has revealed the popularity of the recreational pastime is skyrocketing across the nation, with over-55's among the most engaged with caravan and camping (along with 30 to 54-year-olds).
"Holiday parks have become more than once a year destination, they offer a wealth of attractions in some of the best locations where people can reconnect with nature or enjoy the local scene, making them ideal year-round destinations," said Lyndel Gray, CEO of Caravan and Camping Industry Association (NSW).
"This success has been underscored by an Australian based recreational vehicle manufacturing sector delivering high quality, innovative products which in the past year reached a peak not seen since the 1970's with 31,289 units produced, up by 12 per cent from the previous year."
Caravan and Camping NSW revealed visitors spent a combined 19.7 million nights in caravan and camping accommodation across the state. This marks a 14 per cent increase from 2022 and a 5 per cent increase from 2019.
Visitors enjoyed 4.96 million caravan and camping trips in 2023, up 6 per cent from 2022 and 4 per cent from 2019.
Interstate travellers accounted for almost three quarters (74 per cent) of overnight stays and 68 per cent of total visitor nights.
"The industry continues to thrive as our businesses invest significantly in creating memorable holiday experiences," Ms Gray said.
Ms Gray said the sector played a vital role in the success of the tourism industry, with caravan and camping visitors spending more than $3.5 billion in the state last year.
Recent data suggests this rise in caravanning popularity is a nation-wide phenomenon.
In 2022 a total of 15.1 million overnight trips and 60 visitor nights were recorded across the country, resulting in $10.4 billion in visitor expenditure.
NSW generated $858 million in caravan park revenue, followed by Queensland with $630 million and Victoria with $425 million.
For more information on caravanning in NSW visit www.caravancampingnsw.com. For information on Caravan Camping Australia visit caravanandcampingaustralia.com.au.
