Australia’s caravan and camping destinations are being called upon to play a pivotal role in boosting local tourism and supporting small businesses. This call to action is part of a nationwide initiative, “Greatest Escapes 2023“, launched by Jayco, a manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RV).
The campaign aims to identify and promote the best caravan and camping destinations across the country, thereby encouraging domestic tourism and economic growth.
Jayco’s “Greatest Escapes 2023” is a comprehensive search for Australia’s most loved caravan and camping destinations. The initiative, which is supported by local dealerships, Friends of Jayco, and Vanbassadors, has shortlisted five finalists across eight categories.
These categories range from off-grid gems to budget-friendly locations, and even beachfront sites. The public is invited to vote for their favourite destinations, thereby directly contributing to the promotion of these locales.
However, the campaign is not just about identifying the best camping spots. It also serves as a reminder of the untapped potential that many regions, particularly those along the coast, are yet to fully exploit.
According to an article by Sunshine Coast News, Heatley Gilmore, who runs Camps Australia Wide, many communities are missing out on significant economic benefits by not providing free and budget options for travellers.
Gilmore’s company, which focuses on low-cost camping, RV, and caravan travel sites, has been a strong advocate for affordable camping options. He argues that less than a quarter of travellers choose caravan parks alone, with the majority opting for a mix of both caravan parks and camps. By not providing free and budget options for travelers, many communities, especially those on the coast, are losing a significant market share.
Gilmore further explains that ‘freedom camping‘ in approved sites is very different from illegal camping. While the latter can negatively impact the perception of all campers, the former, if regulated, can bring significant benefits to communities.
He suggests that councils and community groups could charge a small amount for ‘freedom camping’ sites, thereby creating a win-win situation for both travelers and the local community.
The argument for ‘freedom camping’ is further strengthened by the changing preferences of travelers. Many new travelers are now opting for setups that do not require power, water, and toilets. They are fully self-contained and set up for off-grid living. Gilmore believes that communities and the industry should offer options that cater to this type of traveler.
The call for a rethink on camping regulations comes at a time when many councils are taking a zero-tolerance approach to illegal camping. For instance, Noosa Council recently announced that local laws officers would be cracking down on illegal camping due to growing community frustration.
However, Gilmore suggests that instead of outlawing camping, councils could regulate it, thereby creating opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the influx of travelers.
The winners of the Greatest Escapes 2023 will be announced in November, just in time for the Australian summer. This timing is perfect, as it encourages Aussies to get out there and explore the great outdoors, visiting the winning destinations and experiencing the best that Australian camping has to offer.
Participants who cast their vote in the Greatest Escape search will go into the running to win a selection of prizes from Jayco, Hush Puppies, Let’s Go Motorhomes, Mitchelton Wines, Eukanuba, E Tourer, RV Parts Express, and BCF.
The “Greatest Escapes 2023” initiative and the call for a rethink on camping regulations present a unique opportunity for caravan and camping destination owners in Australia. By embracing these ideas, they can play a significant role in boosting local tourism and supporting small businesses, thereby contributing to the overall economic growth of their communities. It’s a call to action that deserves serious consideration and proactive response.