The rising cost of living is forcing Australians to make tough choices when it comes to their holidays. A growing number are opting for camping trips over traditional hotel stays, a trend that's reshaping the way we vacation.
According to a recent survey by Finder, an astonishing 12% of respondents, equivalent to 2.6 million people, have chosen camping as a cost-saving measure for their holidays in the past two years. And here's where it gets controversial: almost a third of Australians haven't taken a holiday in over two years, a statistic that highlights the financial strain many are facing.
Taylor Blackburn, Finder's personal finance specialist, explains that many Australians are being priced out of the holiday market. "The cost-of-living crunch is forcing people to rethink their travel plans," Blackburn says. "Instead of flying off to exotic locations or staying in luxurious resorts, many are turning to camping as a more affordable option."
Camping, a long-standing tradition for many families, offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature and each other without breaking the bank. Blackburn adds, "For some, it's a choice driven by necessity, but for others, it's a chance to rediscover the simple joys of camping."
The research also revealed that 19% of Australians have gone camping purely for fun in the last two years, indicating a growing trend towards this more affordable holiday option.
Blackburn encourages households to plan their holidays carefully, setting realistic budgets and choosing options that won't derail their savings goals. "It's important to opt for holidays that you can afford upfront, rather than those that will put you into debt or add unnecessary pressure to your finances," he advises.
And this is the part most people miss: the caravan industry is thriving. Despite the cost-of-living pressures, NRMA revealed that the caravan industry has continued to grow, with a survey by the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) showing that 58% of Australians have had their travel plans affected by the crisis. Many are opting for shorter, more affordable holidays within Australia, with a record-high demand for caravan holiday park accommodation in 2025.
So, is camping the new normal for Australian holidays? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Are you one of the many Aussies who have chosen camping over hotels? Or do you have a different perspective on this trend?
