18 February 2025: Today’s decision by the RBA to cut interest rates won’t slow down the growth of Aussies choosing to holiday in holiday parks, says industry experts. The sector has seen strong growth in recent years, surpassing the popularity of caravanning and camping during the pandemic, the past year as households tighten their belts and choose value-for-money domestic holidays in place of more expensive hotels or overseas trips.
New data shows that in December 2024, during the peak summer period, occupancy at caravan parks nationally was up three per cent nationally. In Queensland alone, bookings of unpowered camping sites increased by 12 per cent compared to the same period the year prior. Cabins were also popular in December with Queensland holiday parks experiencing a seven per cent increase in bookings.
In the year ending 2023, Australians took 15.3 million caravan and camping trips spending $14.3 billion in the process. This exceeded pre-covid levels and was at an all-time high.
One company to leverage the trend is ParkBooker.com – Australia’s first independent travel platform dedicated exclusively to caravan parks, holiday parks, and campgrounds. Founder Josh Volk says the RBA’s decision today is not likely to slow down Aussie’s love affair with holiday parks.
“Whilst today’s decision is a step in the right direction for many Aussie households, we are confident the popularity of holiday parks will only continue to grow. We know through our partners that travellers are seeking accommodation and experiences that give them time outdoors and that recreate nostalgic memories at some of our favourite beaches and country towns,” said Volk.
Volk, former Global Head of Product at Sweat (the internationally renowned fitness app by Kayla Itsines and Tobi Pearce), said he identified a gap in the market for a dedicated platform catering specifically to holiday parks. Since then, he has created ParkBooker with the backing of high-profile investors including Tim Rossanis, Managing Director of Turo Australia – often described as the ‘Airbnb for cars’.
“Holiday parks are an iconic part of Aussie travel, yet they’ve been overlooked by mainstream booking platforms. ParkBooker makes it easier for travellers to find and book parks while giving operators the digital exposure they deserve,” Volk said.
Michelle Weston, CEO of the Queensland Holiday Parks Association, supports the launch, stating, “ParkBooker.com is a fantastic development for the industry. It provides much-needed digital exposure for parks while making it easier for travellers to find great-value getaways. Holiday parks remain one of Australia’s favourite ways to travel, and ParkBooker will only strengthen that trend.”
Ends.
For more information, images and interviews please contact Heather or Jen at The Comms. People:
Jennifer Swaine | 0438952830 | jen@commspeople.au
Heather Mollins | 0412421411 | heather@commspeople.au
