As the Easter holiday approaches, over 1.7 million Australian campers and outdoor enthusiasts are preparing to hit the road.
The Caravan Industry Association of Australia (CIAA) has launched its annual Road Safety campaign to remind these travelers of the importance of planning ahead and staying safe during their journeys, according to their press release.
The caravan industry in Australia has experienced significant growth in recent years. According to the CIAA’s Business Condition report, the number of annual caravan and camping trips in the country surpassed 2019 levels, with 15.1 million trips and 60.1 million visitor nights recorded at the end of 2022.
This growth is mirrored by the over 820,000 registered caravans and RVs in Australia, highlighting the importance of road safety for this thriving community.
Economic benefits for local communities are substantial as well. Research conducted by Tourism Research Australia indicates that caravan and camping travelers spend an average of AU$841 per trip in a caravan park, contributing to an impressive AU$9.5 billion of visitor expenditure annually.
This spending bolsters local economies and supports the tourism industry across the country.
CIAA Chief Executive Officer Stuart Lamont commented on the economic impact, stating that caravanning travelers are “big spenders” and that the communities they visit benefit greatly from their presence.
However, Lamont also emphasized the importance of safety for those embarking on their Easter adventures, urging them to plan ahead and ensure a safe and enjoyable time for their families and loved ones.
Recent research from February 2023 indicated a pent-up demand for travel, with 85% of caravan and camping enthusiasts planning to spend the same or more on a holiday this year.
Lamont suggested that pre-planning and remaining stress-free are the keys to a safe and enjoyable time away during the holiday period. Simple measures, such as planning stops and keeping children occupied during the trip, can help ensure drivers remain focused on reaching their destinations safely.
In preparation for the Easter holiday, the CIAA, in partnership with other state caravan associations, professional service providers, and relevant bodies such as the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and Queensland Trucking Association, will promote and share road safety information.
This includes tips on managing fatigue, using rest stops properly, vehicle preparation, sharing the road with trucks, towing, caravan park shared spaces, and pool safety.
Road Safety Research data highlights the importance of these safety measures. The findings indicate that RV road users are most likely to have a crash on Mondays or Sundays as drivers return from their holidays.
Crashes are most likely to occur between 10 am and 12 pm, and while they are more likely to happen in urban centers, fatalities are more common on regional roads. Rear-end collisions (18%), angle collisions (14%), and losing control (13%) are the most common reasons for a crash.
To support the campaign, CIAA and its partners provide free access to consumer digital and print educational assets, such as easy-to-digest videos, engaging online quizzes, and written content across email, social media, and digital platforms.
Each year, tens of thousands of Towing handbooks are also distributed free of charge. Travelers can access these resources at https://www.letsgocaravanandcamping.com.au/safety/ to help ensure a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday on the road.
Let’s set off on a mindful Easter adventure, where each mile mirrors our dedication to safety and well-being. Embrace the excitement of careful planning and proactive steps to create a perfect mix of exploration and safety on the roads. It’s about crafting a journey that’s not only thrilling but also secure – let’s make this Easter trip one to remember!