A local showcase of the booming sector, as caravanners and campers inject $1.6 billion dollars into the Queensland economy

The Gold Coast’s largest caravanning event, the Let’s Go Gold Coast Caravan & Outdoor Expo, brought to you by Caravanning Queensland, is returning to Metricon Stadium this year from Friday, March 4, to Sunday, March, 6.

To kick start another massive year for caravan and camping, the Gold Coast Expo is back, bigger and better than ever before! More than 100 exhibitors will be on display for outdoor enthusiasts looking to get a glimpse of the latest products and gadgets on offer, ranging from caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, tent trailers, campervans, tow vehicles and accessories.

Never before has a caravanning lifestyle been more popular in Queensland and Australia. With a 275% increase in the number of new recreational vehicles (caravans, campervans, camper trailers and motorhomes) registered in Queensland in September 2021, compared to the same period in 2020 (2,525 recreational vehicles in 2021 compared to 916 in 2020) the industry has experienced unprecedented growth.

And Queensland is leading the charge nationally, with the highest number of registered recreational vehicles across the country (192,751), followed by Victoria (179,163) and New South Wales (174,817).

With more and more Queenslanders enjoying ‘van-life’, Jason Plant, CEO of Caravan Trade & Industries Association of Queensland, says the Expo is the perfect place for new and seasoned ‘Cara-fans’ to plan their next big road trip or get a head start on their Easter holiday getaway.

“The Gold Coast Expo offers something for the entire family, showcasing the latest products and technology, educational seminars on caravan weights and towing, as well as a land train amusement ride for the kids,” he says.

“You will have direct access to industry experts and suppliers who are ready to point you in the right direction, show you the best options for your budget and provide you with the safety advice you need before you hit the road,” he adds.

Attendees will get the chance to talk directly with local suppliers, while also seeing and experience firsthand the incredible range of caravans, camper trailers, motorhomes, tent trailers, campervans, tow vehicles and accessories available to suit any budget.

Mr Plant said: “We have seen how the pandemic has prompted Aussies to reinvent the way they live and work. This has not only provided a boost to the caravanning industry but has benefited the Queensland visitor economy more broadly.”

According to The Queensland Visitor Economy Report, the caravan and camping sector is vitally important to the Queensland visitor economy with 2.8 million overnight trips in the state at year end September 2021; creating 11.3 million visitor nights – an increase of 32% and 27% compared to September 2020.

According to the report, these visitors spend more than $1.6bn whilst they travel which in turn supports local economies, job creation and regional communities.

Mr. Plant adds that the benefits of adopting ‘van-life’ and exploring our own backyard – whether it be a weekend away, family holiday, or major life adventure, doesn’t end with the stunning scenery or personal adventures, it also helps support small businesses and regions within Queensland and Australia who rely heavily on tourism.