Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW
Caravan & Camping Industry Association NSW (CCIA)

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Caravan and Camping Remains the No. 1 Choice

13 September 2010

Caravan and Camping Remains the No. 1 Choice

It was thought that the introduction of budget airlines would entice all travellers to replace the rising prices of fuel, crowded highways and double demerit points for the fast paced life of air travel. However, recent studies conducted by the Caravan and Camping Industry Association of NSW (CCIA) suggest otherwise.

Barry Baillie, Chief Executive Officer of CCIA declares that during the recent economic crisis when many tourism companies suffered, caravan and camping, holidays, products and services increased by 10 per cent. “In times of crisis we noticed that people wanted to holiday closer to home and return to true family values, in many instances returning to the much loved family tent.”

As our economy begins to strengthen and we see a return in consumer confidence, the caravan and camping industry remains stronger than ever. Barry Baillie attributes this to increased interest by baby boomers combining with the already devoted grey nomads.

Barry Baillie believes that there is a lot more money out there than one may think, as he continues to detect increases in top of the market caravans RV’s and motorhomes. “Caravanning and camping is no longer a cheap, lower socio-economic sector… it’s a sector that has got money to spend and with the recent upgrades of many caravan and camping products and facilities who could blame them?”

“Our Penrith Caravan, Camping and Holiday Expo over the weekend (10 to 12 September) at Penrith Panthers experienced record crowds with the majority of exhibitors reporting record sales,” said Mr Baillie.

Exhibitor Nick Mannell from ARB Penrith (4WD accessories specialist) declared that this was with out a doubt the best show they have ever had and even now that the show is over is inundated with orders and interested buyers.

Barry Green from Dream Pot also exhibited at the show and said that they were overwhelmed by the size of the crowds “during the majority of the day there were at least 15 people surrounding our small exhibit, I have never seen anything like it!”

Many exhibitors told CCIA staff that they have seen an increase of over 40% in sales over the past two years of the show.

“Caravan and camping holidays have 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,” Mr Baillie commented.

Although airlines may be offering discounted rates, its seems as though, taking ones time and experiencing the true Australia and all that it has to offer along the way is the more popular option and is likely to continue to be for many years to come.

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